January 15, 2004, carnegie newsletter by Carnegie Newsletter

Email: carllnews@vcn.hc.C8

THE RETURN OF THE DOWNTOWN EASTSIDE POETS OK, after two Returns of the Downtown Eastside Poets, we're back! Next time' II be the REVENGE of the DTES Poets or the REGURGITATION (See Dale Spray's show ate the Gallery Gachet until the end of the month) ofthe DTES poets or the REBIRTH (Rosemary's Baby?) or something likethat. Our two powerful shows proved that politics don't have to be boring, polysyllabic, and use spell- and grammar-check. And that you can say "Fuck" if you really mean it and it's notjust for effect. (The polysyllabic word is 'gratuitous'.) Poets are bouncing ideas off each other ano generating new work. An awesome example of this was

Mary's "geriatric rap" as she termed it, inspired, hi part, by the rap poetry of Dave MacCallum at the ! Open Mike in December. Everyone's invitedto publish in the Newsletter so in this issue we have "April Fool", "The DTES ' CommunityPlay" and "My Brother" which were all read on January io". The next Poetry Night is February 7'h, close enough to Valentine's Day to inspire the most love-sickof us to come up with a new bent on "Roses are red... " Even if you don't want to get up and read, (time limit I 0 minutes per person) come and maybe you'll hear a few good lines to use on your hunny-bun!

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Reporting the News: Free Workshop for new and seasoned writers.

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Who? What? When? Where? Why? can be a framework. This will look at l ) How to find a story; 2) How to write it up; 3) How to find your own voice.

Friday, January 16, llam - lpm This workshop will be held on the 2nd floor of the Four Comers Community Savings at 390 Main Street. Go to the Pathways Reception desk to register and for access. Participants will work towards writing for www.dtes.ca Community News. H

....

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(This should be read out loud, fast and loud!!)

Mr. Campbell show some pride and step aside; step aside. I'm done with you dumpin' Riverview straight into the downtown Eastside. Pumpin' up the pushers passin' out the pills You fillin' up THEIR purses in place of the doctors and the nurses Dealers passin out the meds - downers and the uppers now we're livin' with dual diagnosis; ADDICTION added to mass psychosis. Excuse MY confused neuroses BUT - where the HELL is the shelter? I'm staggerin' round down here; HeIter Skelter; Someone call car 61. I'm ready to run. I'm givin' up the ghost but my call for help is futile 'cos the social system is toast. And your vision is brutal. Compassion !S not to be this Spring's latest fashion; You wearin' that three piece board of trade suit to give my brothers and sisters the boot; Kickin' single moms to the curb out on the street.. NOT ENOUGH for her kids to eat You cut her off welfare but there's no daycare so she can work. It's a catch 22 so what's she to do but talk with her feet and go to the street with the pimps and the pushers serving as Your ushers and YOU the chief Court Jester; your juggling act's gonna make this City fester; 2010 Olympics are anticipated; but to hide the big pile of misery your legacy has created MAN; this City's gonna need to be gated. maryd

A youngman named John received a parrotas a .3 gift. The Parrothad a bad attitude and an evenworse vocabulary. Every word out ofthe bird's mouth was rude, obnoxious and lacedwith profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently sayingonly polite words, playing soft music and anything else he couldthinkof to "clean up" the bird's vocabulary. Finally, John was fed up and he yelledat the parrot.The parrotyelled back. John shookthe parrotand the parrotgot angrier and evenruder. John, in desperation, threw up his hand, grabbedthe bird and put himin the freezer. For a few minutes the parrotsquawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet.Not a peepwas heard for overa minute. Fearing that he'd hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the doorto the freezer. The parrotcalmly stepped out ontoJohn's outstretched arms and said "I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'msincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct myrude and unforgivable behaviour." John was stunned at the changein the bird'sattitude. As he was about to ask the parrot what had madesuch a dramatic change in his behaviour, the bird continued, "May I ask what the turkey did?"

-------------------..r Death By A Thousand Cuts The song says that "The First Cut is the Deepest" Not so for the children of Strathcona School. Cuts to the school started to the tune of a whopping $42,000 during the Liberals' first year of power and steadily and surreptitiously continue. Daycare subsidy has been slashed and housing allowances are now clawed back. The breakfast program provided by a corporate sponsor through the community centre has been over-budget by $IOOO/month this fall. Children are hungry. This Fall we lost our police liaison officer. She kept our children and families safe and did a lot of 'preventative' intervention around issues such as stealing and bullying. Children's safety is at risk. In our studies such as the UBC Hertzman Community Mapping Project, it has been shown that Inner City communities need more resources and staff- not less - than others to help children at risk achieve their full potential and work for this province productively. Nearsighted, shortsighted funding only leads to long term disability. Where is the vision that will allow all these children to fulfill their dreams and their destinies? Teachers, councilors, librarians, astronomers, business people and top writers such as Paul Yee have all come from our Strathcona School and Chinatown community. This whole area is rich in talent and hard work. Its infamously categorized by Stats Canada as the "poorest postal code in Canada," yet families here are some of the hardest working. Parents often hold 2 jobs and children start seriously helping out in the school and library at age 7. Instead of assisting this amazing growth, Government Policy seems intent on sabotaging and disabling it. This April I st further cuts will eat away at Strathcona. Single mothers of school-aged children will be expected to magically find work. Who will look after their children? Daycare spaces and subsidy have vanished. Just another case of seriously myopic vision.

Adding to the casual cruelty and stupid brutality against downtown eastside families - this March yes, just in time for the April 1st cuts(!), we will lose our "Family Advancement Program and Multicultural Service Worker". Quite a handle but it belongs to someone who has worked in the Strathcona School and served the community for 15 years. Basically she's a counselor designated to support "at risk" families to navigate the system and fmd jobs. Hello, it's April IsI! Who will help now? Many of those she helps do not speak English. She helps with immigration/settlement, parenting, domestic violence, separation, divorce, grief and loss. Grief and Loss: There will be a lot of that going around here if this government continues to bludgeon this community. Please, have a Heart and help stop cuts to the children in the heart of this city. It's a cliche but true. I believe as the song goes "the children are our future." If you do too, please take a stand. if you believe terminating this position is wrong, please express your views to the following people Gordon Campbell, Christie Clark, Ministry of Children and Families, Strathcona School.. This article is by Mary DutTy, Children's Librarian at Strathcona School. It is purely her opinion and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the School or Library.

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5 The Phoenix rose from the Sneak Peak previews and feedback, the radio shows and the Pre-show Fairs 'I'he Community Play Phoenix rose from the seemingly endless rehearsals and the tension The Downtown Eastside Community Play Phoenix rose out of all the different generations, cultures, religions, genders, languages, backgrounds, colors, shapes and sounds - meshing together in profoundly beautiful ways On and off stage Downtown Eastsiders and friends gave and gave and gave

11/ the Hearl

The Downtown Eastside Community Play Amazingeh? Such a wealth of talent Gleaming under those lights Like a buried treasure chest Suddenly flung open A feast for the eyes and ears and heart Honoring our proud history In a perfect blend of laughter and tears and art For almost two years The Downtown Eastside Community Play Phoenix has been rising from the flames The Community Play Phoenix rose from the stories told, gathered and retold The stories uncovering hidden gems of wisdom, courage, love and hate And the many stories left to tell The Phoenix rose from the skills discovered and polished in drumming, acting, dancing, singing, and writing workshops It rose out of the creativity of puppet making, prop making, costume sewing and set building The Phoenix rose out of the Chinese New Year's Parade, Carnegie's IOO,h Anniversar.y Parade, the Spirit of the Arts Walk, the Chinese Cultural Fairs Oppenheimer, Maclean's and CRAB Park events,

ofa City

But as 'All is not perfect in paradise' Neither was the Community Play Some feelings got hurt Some people got lost along the way Some misplaced their schedules or scripts Some didn't have phones and messages went astray Some didn't like their assigned lines Some couldn't understand the English and were too shy to say Some didn't like the food Some felt treated with disdain or betrayed Some things went missing There were family emergencies, injuries, accidents, deaths, robberies, evictions, alcohol and drug issues, mental health issues and many economic barriers

In the Hearl ofa City But the genuine caring And generous sharing Of time, energy, and knowledge Made il all worthwhile and more Plus - THE AUDIENCES LOVED IT!

A huge effort A giant step A precious gift And a lot offun Encore! Bravo! Congratulations to everyone... Leith Harris

"YOUR OWN DEATH"

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The will to live varies tremendously from person to person, but often closely associated with a patient's personality. Those who have found life burdensome, at best. often give up quickly, while those who have found life stimulating and pleasurable are often reluctant to let go. It is a marvellous example of how the human mind and body interact. While man cannot conquer death, he can sometimes prolong life. While we all live our lives in the knowledge that no day can be repeated and that we cannot alter the past. many of us are reluctant to plan for death-the inevitable termination oflife. There are a number of very practical measures which can be taken that help, not only to prepare ourselves, but also to assure some security for those left behind. Everyone should have a will which can be updated periodically as commitments and financial situations change. This will ensure that the appropriate people will be provided for even in the event of an accidental death. Dealing with one's own death is probably the most ditlicult task anyone will ever have to face. It means giving up everything and everyone ofvalue ill a lifetime. The knowledge of one's own impending death necessitates an awesome adjustment both in terms of personal feelings and in relationships with others. A patient should be prepared for the stages that precede acceptance---denial, anger, bargaining and depression. Some people find themselves stuck at one stage and needing help to overcome it. Friends. family and doctors can help. No one need sutler in silence. Dying is a lonely and painful experience and entitles you to all the care and comfort available.

A dying person may find his family using a great deal of denial and false reassurance. It is important to understand that they are just trying to help. They may not be able to face the truth themselves and are with good intentions, trying to protect the patient as well. If a dying person can be honest with himself and his family the energy normally expended in keeping up a facade can be diverted towards a few weeks or months of enjoyment of one another. The final months need not be gloomy and dark. Many people choose to remain at home surrounded by familiar and comfortable people and objects. It is a time to enjoy each day as a precious gift, to enjoy doing those things which bring the most pleasure and satisfaction and to tell family and friends how much one really cares about them. â&#x20AC;˘ What comes after death is very much an enigma. While varying cultures and religions hold a variety of beliefs, the only certainty is that each one of us lives on through our children and the other people we leave behind. Our ultimate immortality comes, in fact. with our own death which gives way to new lif! through our children and our grandchildren. Submitted by Gram (B'day May II, 19241

My Brother My brother sells crack cocaine to whores, addicts and the poor. Walking down the street with after dark was as risk because he is awaiting Court. He told me of a time in a hotel room with guys and girls and the girls fucking the guys, having showers, smoking more crack, and ten fucking someone else. He jested at me for not fucking his girlfriend, amd tried to throw his TV off a 20th floor balcony. I watched motionless on a couch, the kitten having hidden by now, as he rattled, jossled, kicked and punched his audio/video equipment, smashing the TV's screen on a cinder block, telling me to have another beer. This'll make a nice one, I think Now I'm sorry for not writing about a flower, or the beauty of our trees, insects, bees -. Instead I wrote about the poor, the dirtiest people of them all. Forgive me, I'm sorry, I'm sorry I'm sorry TB

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9 It is so great to see such positive events coming out of the community. The media just prints mostly lies and never shows the real community. Your book [The Heart ofthe Community) shows the talent, the true creativity, the real knowledge that the community has about itself. Congratulations The play [In The Heart ofa City] I still stand in awe in my memories of its wonder. I never really knew the history of the d.t.e.s. and what a rich history it has. The cruelty ofthe so called upper-class shows where the oppression came from. How I wish this kind of education could be in our schools. Rich white people wrote our history and many of our history books have serious dishonesty in them. The book and the play throw a ripple in the huge pond of Canada, but ripples spread. Congratulations and a blessed new year.

Happy New Year. Gung Hey Fat Choy I chance all enjoyed their holidaze. I think I did. I spent my usual $300 on gifts for myself and made sure I was extra smashed so I wouldn't remember what I bought for myself. I even went so far as to hire someone more inebriated than I to wrap them up. Other than that I think I had a good time. Was I in the Columbia hotel? Only my shadow knows. Have a good year and keep on socking it to $hitty ball. Check out my site at gringostarl.tripod.com

Carl MacDonald

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There's a war on wimin going on this christmas There's a war on wimin going on. The army of Liberals, with campbell at the head; Cuts us with cut backs and contracting out Hospitals and nursing homes lay off their workers mostly wimin of colour who worked so hard There's a war on wimin going on going on, There's a war on wimin going on this christmas There's a war on wimin going on. In 2004 mothers on starvefare for just two years Face cut backs in food money. Starve a child starve a child There's a war on wimin going on this Christmas but We the wimin are strong. We Can win. We can vote. We can write. We can strike. We are wimin: We are strong. Sheila Baxter

A little girl grew up in Skid Row, with no mother or father to guide her, never knowing just where her next meal was coming from, or if she would find a safe place to sleep that night, or ifshe would be alive in the morning ... never really finding a place of her own or people who cared ifshe lived or died. After all the years on her own she found something to keep her warm and safe. I' II call it my downfall. It never let me down or called me names or hit me when something went wrong. It kept me warm and with no worries and it never let me down. Every Christmas would come and go and she had no stocking of her own to hang or tree to decorate with family who cared. She'd always just do her down and dream of all those things that you all had each year without a thought. As the years have gone by she's still without a family of her own or stockings to hang. There's no tree to decorate or a place of her own ... just the down who has never let her down. The years have been long and hard and she still dreams of those things most people have with no thought, but in January 2004 it'll be a year that she's been clean. Now I'm stronger and smarter than most because I have Christmas every day ofthe year - every day I wake up alive. That's what Christmas is about - to be alive and well. Lori-Kim Veenstra

From the .Georgia Straight Wailing lar tIIIIlrulh laily "It's ~ whitewash, and I'm surprised they're not charging my client with putting his teeth in front of a club. They've just stopped short of that."-Vancouver lawyer Phil Rankin, on the results of an internal police investigation clearing an officer of all charges for an incident in which Rankin's clienthad some of his teeth knocked out by an officer's baton following the cancellation of a GunsN'Roses concert

Pa.,.d "If you look at the premier as a father figure who says, 'Okay, your allowance is cut back a bit' and all these things, you start to develop this 'I don't like him anymore' kind of thing."-MLA Lorne Mayencourt, explaining why some people seemed- to enjoy. the humiliating aspects of Gordon Campbell's drunk-driving arrest

NiI:.IiI. if il dan'l rain "They're homeless in the sense that they choose to be homeless. They have cellphones, they have jobs, but they choose to live out underneath the stars in the park."-Vancouver police spokesperson Const. Sarah Bloor, on a small community of people squatting in Jericho Park East, where one resident was allegedly killed by another

B••lcaps "I've made no bones about it, my clients are drug addicts, having criminal records and are unsavoury. Those are the kind of people who normally get abused by the police. That's why you have civil rights."Phil Rankin, lawyer for the three individuals who were taken to Stanley Park and assaulted by six Vancouver police officers. The officers pleaded guiltyto assault, and the Crown counsel, in exchange, stayed charges of assault with a weapon and attempting to obstruct justice

At a recent computer expo, Bill Gates (Founder of Microsoft and the richest man on Earth) reportedly compared the computer industry with the auto industry and stated, "lfGM had kept up with technology like the computer industry has, we would all be driving $25.00 cars that got 1,000 miles to the gallon". In response to Bill's comments, General Motors issued a press release stating: IfGM had developed technology like Microsoft, we would all be driving cars with the following characteristics> I. For no reason whatsoever, your car would crash twice a day. 2. Every time they repainted the lines in the road, you would have to buy a new car. 3. Occasionally your car would die on the freeway for no reason. You would have to pull over to the side of the road, close all ofthe windows, shut off the car, restart it, and re-open the windows before you could continue. For some reason you would (or would expected to) simply accept this. 4. Occasionally, executing a maneuver such as a left

1IBIIa. IIBIIaDDDDD• Based on a survey of 1,512 former welfare recipients, B.C. Human Resources Minister Murray Coell claimed that the government's downsizing of social assistance was resulting in people finding work. However, only a third of the survey population actually completed the survey and nearly half could not be contacted because their phones were out of service. Coell said most of those were young, mobile single people who go where the work is, which is probably why their phones were disconnected. "We assume they have found work and their life has improved."

Slagpring sighl "We have made the neighbourhood a safer place to live in ...You can now see drunks on the street. We have not seen them here for years/'-Vancouver police Sgt. Tony Zanatta, quoted in the Globe and Mail on the effects ofthe department's crackdown on theDowntown Eastside

turn would cause your car to shut down and refuse to restart, in which case you would have to reinstall the engine. 5. Macintosh would make a car that was powered by the sun, was reliable, five times as fast and twice as easy to drive - but would run on only five percent of the roads. 6. The oil, water temperature, and alternator warning lights would all be replaced by a single "This Car Has Performed An Illegal Operation" warning light. 7. The airbag system would ask"Are you sure?" before deploying. 8. Occasionally, for no reason whatsoever, your car would lock you out and refuse to let you in until you simultaneously lifted the door handle, turned the key and grabbed hold of the radio antenna. 9. Every time a new car was introduced car buyers would have to learn how to drive all over again because none of the controls would operate in the same manner as the old car. I O. You'd have to press the "Start" button to turn the engine off.

The real causes of poverty An article on Thursday, December 18, 2003 in The Province daily tabloid by former NPA City Councillor Sandy McCormick caught my attention. It was titled "You're funding poverty industry." In it, McCormick claims there is an "industry," based on various levels of government funding, which supposedly takes money targeted for the poor and disadvantaged (especially in the Downtown Eastside) and uses it instead to line the pockets of those involved in the amelioration of poverty. This is a common argument by right-wing neoconservatives, and one which I have seen far too often in the media, especially in right-wing rags like The Province. To be fair, the other side of the story is published from time to time, as evidenced by excerpts printed of Seth Klein's and Andrea Long's paper "A bad time to be poor," an analysis ofBC's oppressive welfare policies. But by comparison to the neo-con rants, these balanced opinions are few and far between. In my opinion (and in others' opinions as well), arguments such as McCormick's serve only to deflect attention away from the shortcomings of government and the economic system, and try to blame aid workers and organizations trying to alleviate these problems for the very existence of poverty. In fact, a term which originated from the Downtown Eastside sums up the misconception: "poverty pimp." The last time I heard this used was when regressive provincial Liberal MLA Lome Mayencourt called Vancouver COPE City Councillor Jim Green a poverty pimp apparently for criticizing the Campbell government's bad policies. Said Green, "Cutting people off welfare, getting rid of social housing programs, this is the recipe for creating homelessness and drug addiction .... What these guys in Victoria are apparently trying to do is they're causing the problem and then they're trying to lay the blame elsewhere." That's when Mayencourt dumped fuel on the issue by calling Green a poverty pimp who has been spreading fear about the government's programs to reform the welfare system. "If) truly wanted to partner with someone I wouldn't be out calling them poverty pimps and telling them they're not doing their job," said Green.

You see the common mechanism in operation here? It takes on other forms as well. The most common is to blame the poor for their misfortune, instead of directing the blame where it truly belongs, at the had economic system which creates poverty (as well as wealth) or at the wealthy who often advocate policies which create more poverty (usually by diverting wealth from the poor to the rich, as Premier Gordon Campbell's government did when it first assumed power and gave massive tax breaks to business and the rich at the expense of the poor). As long as the media are controlled by corporate interests, we will continue to see this pattern repeating: otwrongly blaming the poor or the organizations which help the poor for creating the poverty from which they sutfer. By Rolf Aller

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BC Government should not cave in to private clinics

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By Colleen Fuller and Seth Klein

It hasn't been often that we at the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives have found occasion to applaud the BC government for one of its new policies. But we did commend the government for Bill 92The Medicare Protection Amendment Act. Now, sadlv after a fierce three-week campaign by private surgical clinics, the government appears to be backing away from this needed law. In short, Bill 92 was an attempt to prevent queuejumping, as required by the Canada Health Act. The Bill would have empowered patients to request an audit of private clinics they believe have inappropriately billed them for needed medical services. It would have seen the government fining those clinics that charge patients directly for necessary care, and reimbursing these patients. The Bill is based on the understanding that patients already pay for necessary health care through their taxes and MSP premiums. Why is the government backing down? First, many private clinics claimed they would go bankrupt-an interesting claim, given that, until a few weeks ago, many of these same clinics insisted they did not charge patients directly and were not operating in contravention of the Canada Health Act. So it turns out that, for many private clinics to be profitable, they need to bill both the public system and private individuals. Second, the government's trepidation comes in the wake of a flurry ofletters to the editor and public denunciations (perhaps orchestrated) from individuals and some business leaders, who have demanded their "right" to pay for quick medical care. But such a "right" is meaningless for all those who cannot afford to exercise it. That's why the fundamental issue ought to be the universal right to timely medical care, not the "right" of individuals to queue jump

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if they have enough money. Rights must have meaning for everyone. The benefit of Bill 92 is that it says to affluent people: "The right to timely care is not just important to you, it is important to everyone. If you want quick care, then join the struggle to ensure the public system can provide such care to all." Contrary to the claims made by private clinics, their presence has not in fact reduced waiting times in the public system. Wait times for orthopedic surgery in BC, for example, have increased by nearly 60 percent in the last two years. During this same time, private clinics providing this service have expanded. There is no evidence that private hospitals or clinics shorten wait times. Look at it this way: there is one public queue, one doctor and 50 patients. The doctor opens a private clinic and tells his patients if they pay him directly, he'll reduce their waiting times, so 10 patients choose to do so. The public line is now 40 patients and the private line is 10 patients. So now there is one doctor, 50 patients and two queues. The doctor earns more money providing service to the patients waiting in the private queue. So the doctor draws more and more resources away from the public system-nurses, anesthesiologists and so on-and now the 40 patients who depend on the public system wait longer and longer. In Alberta, according to the Consumers Association of Canada, it was precisely this scenario that resulted in patients whose doctors practiced in both the public and private systems waiting the longest times for surgery. Those whose doctors practiced in only one system had shorter waiting times.

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How will the federal government react to BC shelving Bill 92? This is a key question, with serious consequences for BC. The BC government never wanted to introduce Bill 92-it was dragged into it by the Feds, who required that BC enforce the Canada Health Act or risk financial penalties. Right now, federal health transfers are one ofthe few things saving Finance Minister Gary Collins' bacon. The Premier seems to think his relationship with Prime Minister Martin is strong enough that he can convince Ottawa not to enforce the CHA. But if he's wrong, the province's finances may be in troubleand the public will end up paying for private clinics in yet another way. Let's be clear: when people are sick or injured, providing needed care costs money-a lot of money. We must pay for that care one way or another, either publicly or privately. The Canadian experience is that we provide care both more equitable and more efficiently when we choose to pay for it together.

Colleen Fuller is a research associate with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, specializing in . health policy. Seth Klein is the BC Director ofthe Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (www.policyalternatives.ca)

Sky Dog Ruminates We need a new lexicon, a new language I need to get away. I feel like a dog, trapped here by your conventions, your sickness Now everyone is sick, even me poisoned by progress where being human no longer counts for anything much Dogs have the class to wander off alone to die Humans like to spray their misery around I need a new language so I can understand I hear the cries, the whimpers, the endless bawling Ifself-pity was water most of you would drown. I need new eyes, new ears, can't go on like this If I hear one more sad story I think I'll die laughing and not because of any mirth I need to forget all your words Ruff, ruff, arr ruff arr ruff ee ha ee ha Lester D. Mann

Acupuncture Still Hangin' on in the I)TES' 1 Sitting with Peter, one of the acupuncturists doing duty at the Downtown Eastside Clinic on Powell & Princess. I was saddened at how few people in this neighbourhood take advantage of this free service. Acupuncture is available most mornings between 9:30 and 11:30,4 days a week. While hardly acknowledged, the service treats pain and addiction problems. I go because I'm withdrawing from methadone. I find it essential to keeping my 'balance.' By regulating my chi I am able to do pain-free that chich would otherwise be wholly uncomfortable. Peter and I were musing about the faddish nature of some alternative treatments. I was lamenting the fact that while acupuncture in this neighbourhood was immensely popular when first offered to the public, it seems to have been somewhat forgotten as a means to battle the personal drug problems some of us share. It was cool lor awhile then, like everything, the hubbub simmered and now only the 'faithful' still go for treatment. There are 3 acupuncturists working now at the downtown clinic. One actually has a choice of practitioners. All of these doctors (doctors oftraditional Chinese medicine) are licensed and fully qualified, with a deep and compassionate understnading of those they serve. They care. Today, caring makes all the difference, especially in health matters. SO without meaning to sound testimonial, I have to say I think more people should be made aware and reminded from time to time that acupuncture is here, free and an alternative to more traditional or drug-based therapies. Acupuncture is offered at the Health Contact Centre as well as the Downtown Clinic. It's a valuable tool in rebuilding yourself after 100 many ycars of too many drugs. If you're serious about getting your aet together, then you owe it to yoursellto give acupuncture a try. You have nothing 10 lose and a whole lot to gain. Peace. R.Loewen

You don't know where your shadow wi II fall.

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Reflections Creator, Creator, where are you? Please come and tell me what to do I'm lost in this world ofsorrow and pain Despite what I do, it's always the same Are you there? Do you hear me? I want to be free! It's all just too fiiggin' hard for me I'm gonna explode with this anger and fear Cause it feels like I'm all by myself down here

To Love You Hobgoblins bouncing around in a hush without a soft sound Yet gargoyles are a vision haunting forests in lonely remote skies Hear them screaming, caterwauling, scarring up, zooming down Have you ever sipped a witch's brew as it bubbles, crackles profound Make a wish as you hesitate, I'll hold your hand as you carry on I'll kiss your lips as you awake out of a shocking pink dream You play me Iike a violin; I'm at your beck 'n call and I say to you Cast your worries otTas a dark loose cape, let nothing block your way I love the way you dip your chin when sniffing spring gardenias

You were not perchance considering true love as a possibility To have that dream of bonding souls on earth and in eternity You say you've been with me all ofthis time is this along your lines of thinking that you desire to follow But I needed excuses to grumble and whine If this is so you misguided, wayward girl, your heart may be hollow So I played out the "victim" and pushed you away Catch your breath, slow it down, may you receive your heart's desire Blamed you, and those others, for every bad day You're the soph isticated lady I think you are; keep your embers warm You say the way past it is simply to see And yet I have my doubts of your misty, rarefied atmospheres That everything out there's a reflection of ME Your spinning thoughts are in control, as chaotic as that seems My perception determines what it is I'll get back You have a one-track mind I see with a simple seamless bliss Well that certainly explains why my life's been crap And if that is all you ask of me, then permit me to grant your wish I sutTer from the guilt and the shame put on me By parents and religion and society It's caused such self-hatred to grow in my heart It's distorted my creation ofthings from the start What I see in myself, I see in all others No wonder I see all the "wrong" in my brothers! 1ft think I'm not worthy and basically "bad" I'll prove that I'm "right" by making life sad! Creator, Creator, what can. I do? Destroy the belief that there's "sin" inside you! It's making you sick - it doesn't belong Cause I've never made anything "right" or "wrong" There's only what serves you and what does not All this judgment and blaming has got to stop! Just knock it all off if you want to have peace I know that for Me, it would be a reliefl Okay, okay, I get what you're saying! You've given the answer fur which I was praying This hate for myself cause I think I'm so "bad" Is really the secret that's making me mad It'll be quite a struggle but I won't be afraid To see that I'm perfect however I'm made But when I can finally hold Love in my heart I know that I'll find my way out ofthe dark In the meantime when someone is arrogant or smug I can decide to get angry, or give them a hug And remember that fear makes them act in that way The same fear I fight inside me every day Maueen Kerr

Robyn

ACTIONS TO TAKE WITH THIS PETITION: ... the goal of getting 500,000 people to sign: I. Ask every individual in your organization to take copies of the petition home and gather at least 20 signatures from family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues at work. 2. Take the petition to community events and have people sign there. 3. Set up a table in a high-traffic area and gather signatures. 4. Ask youth groups and seniors' groups to be a part ofthe petition. 5. Invite other organizations tojoin the campaign. 6. Take the petition along when you pick up your children at daycare, hockey practice, or school activities. 7. Ifyou are a university student, announce what you are doing in class and ask people to sign. 8. Try door-to-door on your street. 9. Take the petition with you to religious, sports, social, and educational activities and invite those attending to sign. 10. Don't forget to sign it yourself.

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Petition to Premier Gordon Campbell and the BC Government regarding the Aprill Deadlines on Welfare Recipients

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Dear Premier Campbell: We, the people of British Columbia, wish to express our deep dissatisfaction over the proposed government action of implementing the 2-year cut-off in social assistance. This action will bring hardship to many, but especially to single-parent families with children. We also are aware that this will increase the number of homeless in our province. We believe that this will download the burden of caring for people to cities, municipalities, and agencies such as food banks. All of these are already stretched to the limit. This legislation will cause disruption in many sectors of our province, but it will dramatically impact the most vulnerable citizens. Therefore we demand that your government rescind the laws imposing time limits and reducing benefits.

NAME

Send this petition to:

ADDRESS

End Legislative Poverty 211 W Broadway, Vancouver BC VSY tR3 or fax to 604-879- 1229 The deadline is March 1, 2004

SIGNATURE

In the Heart of a City: The DTES Community Play Thank You COMMUNITY ACTORS Sarah Angus, Jacob Bennett, Kira Bennett, Sue Blue, .... Gail Bowen, Julie Brassard, Roger Brouillette, Mayor Larry Campbell, Gus Cabrera, .'" Gra~t Chancey, Wendy Chew, Rt. Hon. G~en Clark: Mickey Clark, Rosemary , ollins, Ada Con, Brenda Dallaway, MP Libby Davies, Luke Day, Vancouver Parks _ _.................oard Chair Heather Deal, Paul Decarie, Antonio Dossantos, Gladys and Patty Evoy, Dan Feeney, Magdalena Fekete, Patrick Foley, Sarah Galuska, Councillor Jim Green, Michael Guenette, James Hance, Sharon [o [elden, Katie Jobin, Yvonne Kato, John Krotez, Sai Law, KueiMing Lin, Robyn Livingstone, Stephen Lytton, Adrienne Macallum, Victoria Marie, Julia Mark, RH Maxwell, Michael McNeeley, Joan Morelli, Wilhemina Munro, Elizabeth Murdoch, Paisley Nahanee, Kat Norris, Qi Li and Si Qi Pan, Harriet and Brenda Prince, Dakota Prince, Sandra Pronteau, Henry Pruden, Isobel Ramirez, Bill Richardson, Trevor and Emily Robinson, Roberto Garcia Roman, Javier Romero, Saskia Schopman, Lynne Shepard, Donald Shumka, Priscillia Tait, Gena Thompson, Hannah, Mercy, and Elisha-May Walker, Emile Wilson, Susan Poshan Wong, Councillor Ellen Woodsworth, Bernadett:9ks, Elwin Xie, Fanna Yee COMMUNITY MUSICIANS Sarah Galuska, Jim Sands, Gregory Maxedon, Klisala Harrison, Victoria Marie and Javier Romero ,

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COMMUNITY PARTTCIPANTS WHO HELPED TO CREATE PLAY'S STAGING AND MUSIC Cleona Anderson, Magnolia Cairns, Taum Danberger,

Ed Dayton, Yuanih Garcia, Karen Kallevik, Michael McCormack, Siobhan McCormick, Alex Martin, Haedy Mason, Jean Blais Mathieu, Ikuro Nagata, Chris Nelson, Teresa Ng, Aaron Pronteau, Danielle Smyth. Karah Walker, Robert Williams

COMMUNITY MAKERS (COSTUMES, PUPPETS, PROPS, HATS, MASKS, SET, BANNERS, HISTORICAL DISPLAY) Glen Andersen, Sarah Angus, Penny Beggs, Jason Bouchard, Julie Brassard, Roger Brouillette, Magnolia Cairns, Wendy Chew, Rosemary Collins, Brenda Dallaway, Aurora Dunkley, Magdalena Fekera, Ilona Ferenzi. Sarah Galuska, Tom Gleave, Susan Gordon, Michael Guenette, Demitri Harris, Naomi Harvey, Lorelei Hawkins, Daymon and John Krotez, Debra Lank, Doug Lusignans, Stephen Lytton, Greg Maxedon, Adrienne Macallum, [iivan Blais Mathieu, Elizabeth Murdock. Clayton Palmer, Bill Pope, Brenda, Dakota, Harriet, Raven and Todd Prince, Sara Ross, George Sakata, Jimmy Sands, Joan Seidel, Miriam Stuart, Anne Suddaby and First United Church workshop, Koraley Tanner, Julie Thompson, Teresa Vandertuin, Debbie Ventura, jil p weaving, Owen West, Bernadette Wycks, Fanna Yee, Elwin Xic, Nadirn, Carmen, Sophie COMMUNITY BACKSTAGE CREW AND CHILDCARE Jennifer Christensen, Serena Gnomes, Sara Jacobson, Preston Jobin, Robyn and Todd Prince COMMUNITY FRONT OF HOUSE CREW Harold Asharn, Jack Barry, Demitri Harris, Montana Hunter, Sara Jacobson, Preston Jobin, Carolyn Low, Martin Mellado, Naomi Narvey, Velma Paquette, Debbie Ramage, Martin Sears, Aden Sutton

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COMMUNITY PHOTOGRAPHER David Cooper COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTORS TO SCRIPT RESEARCH We give a big t

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thanks to the 194 people who answered our story questionnaires including srudentd. "':lit. and staff at Seymour and Strathcona Elementary Schools, Britannia Secondary ~ ( School, and patrons of the Raycam and Carnegie Community Centers, Crab Tree Corner, Community Directions, Aboriginal Friendship Center, Portland cafe, Radio Cafe and Union Market (including Linda Boyle, Montana Hunter, Neil Gerrard, Angeline Jack, Charlotte Johnson, Sandra Keshane, Quentin Milord, Vincent Phan, Mark Tobiasson, Brody Williams). We also want to thank all the people who joined the writers for "gossip tea" story collecting sessions at CARNEGIE COMMUNITY CENTER (Mario Bellgenttir, Sue Blue, Denelle and Herb Hulbert, John (Preacher Man), Denny Joseph, Andy Kostyniuk, Stephen Lytton, Dennis Olson, Priscillia Tait, Grant Watson, Terry Williams, Peter, Ron), the CHINESE CUL1VRAL CENTER (including Harry Goldberg and Jennifer Moss), BREAKING THE SILENCE (including Valencia Byrd and Tia), UKRAINIANHALL (including Dianna Kleparchuk, Audrey Skalbania, Joan Kowalewich), STRATHCONA ARTISTATHOME FESTIVAL (Yugoslavian ladies Angie Vuksic, Helen Cvitanovich, Carlie Pupovich), the COOK CAFE (including Julia Mark, Marge George, Margaret Webber, Evelyn and Bob Lockyer) and W ATARI (including Charles Almenendariz, Jorge Colindres, Jesus Esteban, Sherri Johnstone, Luis Hernandez, Guadalupe Mena, Monserrat Munoz, Martin Ojeda, Larry Pancevic), And finally we want to thank all those people who shared phone interviews, personal interviews, written material and audiovisual material with the writers including Elaine Allan, Reverend George Archer, Fred Arrance, John Atkin, Marie Baker, Jean Barman, Sheila Baxter, Regina Brennan, Dawn Buie (and the DTES Film Festival), James Burton, Sandy Cameron, Marie Ann Cantilion, Grant Chancey, Gertie Chow, Randy Clark, Wade Compton, Bruce Congola, Ron Cora. Lynn Crompton, Dara Culhane, Libby Davis, Marie Davis, Paul Decarie, Lou Demerais, DES Media (Iayce Salloum), Dave Dickson, Beverly Dobrinsky, Melissa Eror, Tina Farmilo, James Fischer, Patrick Foley, Bonnie Fordyce, Chief Janice George, Marge George, Rosemary Georgeson, John Endo Greenaway, Stephan Gray, Jay Hamburger, Leith Harris, Nancy and Harvey Hee, Barbara Hodgson, Darren and Lorraine Holubowich, Terry Hunter, Colin Anthony Ito, Carole Itter, Luka Jolicoeur, John Iuliani, Marcella King, Sharon Kravitz, lin Li, Mark Leier, Peter David Little, Jason Logan, Larry Loyie, Bruce MacDonald, Julia Mark, Pam Martin, Ramona Marr, Ruth Martin, Lora Masotti, Tina Matthews, Ruth Meta, Joan Morelli, Bryan Mulvahill, Delia Nahanee, Ahjala Nelson, Kat Norris, Zola Novak, Tom Olernan, Lou Parsons, Earle Peach, Todd Peterson, Christine Peori, Sheryl-lyn Rivers, Joy Russell, Phillipa Ryan, Robert Sarti, Dayle Schetrger, Irene Schmidt, Joan Seidel, Lillian Sheng, Muggs Sigurgeirson, Frank Smith, Jeff Sommers, Nancy Stubbs, Cathy Srubington, Paul Taylor, Colleen Tillman, Colleen Tsoukalas, Colleen Uyeda, Teresa Vandertuin, Herb Varney, Dan Vie, Hayne Wai, Margaret Webber, Kelly White, Darryl Wildcat, Muriel Williams, Bing Wong, Susan Wong, Karen Wong, Larry Wong, Todd Wong, Paul Wright, Caesse Wyss, Takeo Yamashiro, Paul Yee, Paul Yeung,

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Peter Yeung, Cora, Peter, Ron, Mel, Mary Ann, Paul, Dale, Archie, Anton, Gordon and th_o_s_e_w_h_O wished «main anonymon,.

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News from the Library The following are some of the new titles received: American Splendor: The life and times of Harvey Pekar This is the inspiration for the award winning film which the Los Angeles Film critics have voted the best film of2003( Vancouver Sun Jan.S" )Touted as the world's first literary comic book, grouchy Harvey Pekar holds up a mirror to life that is both funny and informative. Boyhood by J.M. Coetzee. One of the earlier titles by Nobel prize wining author this is an account of a childhood in South Africa which is a compelling read. Company Towns of the Pacific North West by Linda Carlson A history ofcompany towns in Oregon, Washington and Idaho where the author describes how companies went about controlling housing, religion, taxes, liquor, prostitution and union organizers in a well researched and readable narrative. Struggle for the Land by Ward ChurchilL Ward Churchill has received an international award for his literature on human rights and this title which discusses the genocide, ecocide and colonization of Native North Americans can attest to why he is worthy ofsuch an honour. He clearly demonstrates why the methods of resource exploitation have wreaked havoc on Native communities and why all of us should fight in a common resistance to seek justice. Over the Influence: the harm reduction guide to managing drugs and alcohol By Pat Denning et al This book offers an insight into the strength of harm reduction as a way of managing drugs and alcohol and because it has many worksheets we will photo copy sections for free for anybody who is interested. It should be of interest to both users and those who care for people who may be at risk. To quote an editorial review: Over the Influence is not only the bestnamed book about recoveryfrom drug and alcohol addiction, it is also the best written, most concise, and most emotionally real ofall books in the field.

Vernon God Little by DBC Pierre. This is the Booker award book which shocked the literary world when author Pierre (initial DBC stands for dirty but c1ean)revealed that this was his debut novel written on an impulse to clear offsome debts. Author is a former drug addict and selfconfessed con man. Vernon God Little is a black comedy about modern America. At the awards Pierre {whose real name is Peter Finlay} s~id he wo~ld use his prize money to pay offsome of his staggering debts. He has just been nominated this week for a further prestigious Book Prize The Whitbread. which may leave him a few pennies for himself

Carnegie Book Club ...Thursdays at The Learning Centre. noon. This is the third year Do YOU want to escape into Middle Earth? Now is your chance. Come join the folks who want to read Lord ofthe Rings and have fun along the journey. Everybody welcome. Library will provide copies of the book. Mary Ann your Librarian A Special Thanks for a donation made to Carnegie by "the Original" Paul Martin, uncle of our former librarian Andrew (who is now head librarian of the special collections section of Van. Public Library).

LIVE BAND DANCE THE SNEAKY PEATS Friday, February zo'". 2004 7pm - lOpm THEATRE Refreshments served for the dance thirsty EVERYONE WELCOME ESPECIALLY YOU!!!

u Excerpts from: We Are All Self-Employed: The New Social Contract for Working in a Changed World By Cliff Hakim

This hook presents six powerful beliefs which make lip a "working creed" and focus on 3 key questions: • What do I want to do? • What skills do I bring to the marketplace? • What will others pay me to do? 1.1 will begin the process of change with myself. 2.1 will face the dragon (my work fears) and replace fear with passion. 3.1 will integrate independence and interdependence. 4.1 will join, not work for, my organization and customers. 5.1 will commit to continuous learning and view my career as a lifetime endeavor. 6.1 will create meaningful work that offers what I need and contributes to others. We make one of three choices. We can choose perspiration - keeping our head down and doing our work; desperation - working as though the boom is going to drop at any time; or inspiration - doing our work and taking charge of our work life. We are in effect self-employed. We must identify our skills, uncover hidden opportunities, create and develop more challenging and rewarding work. What looks like chaos (learning a new trade or taking a new job), can be a vital part of change and growth.

The process requires moving through chaos, anxiety; confusion, resistance, and aloneness. It is a time of reaching inward and of self-learning. It is a time of reflection, observation, idea generation, and renewal. Learning and Transition Guidelines - We often feel confused and anxious as we reframe our career. These are inescapable characteristics of learning and transition. You won't know all the answers; nor will you be expected to have all the answers. Here are ways to help: • Don't push. Learn as you think about your past. answer questions, and plan for the future. • Don't Panic. Determine what you want to be and how you can be more productive. • Expect discomfort. It's common to feel anxiousto feel threatened and excited by new possibilities. Exercising, and talking with a trusted friend can help you manage stress and anxiety. • Allow for learning. Your ability to risk and learn has brought you to this point. Continue-give yourself permission and time to learn new things. • Take care of yourself. Do little things that make you feel good. Take walks, read, or watch your favorite TV programs. Don't force change-take breaks.

The Job Shop supports residents of the DTES in their return to work. Participants develop and broaden the skills they will need to get and keep ajob. Federally funded by HRDC, The Job Shop starts new participants every week. Program information sessions are held Tuesdays, at 1 p.m. Call 604-253-9355, Ext.238. Need A Chance To Prove You're Ready, Willing & Able To Work? Get the

you deservel

Find out what your next step needs to be. Call to attend the Job Shop Info session. 604-253-9355

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progrem funded by HRDC

Human Resources Developpement des Development Canada ressources humaines Canada

The WOODWARDS MIRACLE:

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HAVE YOU READ THE FINE PRINT! How many long-suffering Downtown Eastside residents, who toiled long and hard over the years for housing in Woodwards and who grumbled rightfully about the miserly Provincial government offering up a mere 100 subsidized units, are aware that the real number is 60? In an administrative report dated Oct. 21, which outlines the proposals from sponsor groups, the pre-amble to the section relating to non-market housing sponsor groups sets out the conditions stipulated by the Province for the "subsidized" units. It says units would" accommodate a mix of20% low-end market households, 20% shallow core need households, and 60% deep core need households". This means that people whose only source of income is Income Assistance (still the majority ofD.E. residents) will only be able to fill 60 of I 00 units. This elaborate shell game is even more outrageous when you remember that this formula was a standard component of the Homes B.C. operating agreements for many years. But guess what? This government, in its maniacal zeal to hack its way through social programs like a Samurai warrior, eliminated Homes B.C. and replaced it with Homes Nothing. Why then is Woodwards still forced to comply with these arcane standards? Why are there not 100 units designated for core need households?

Downtown Eastside

How many people who now live elsewhere will eventually move into the complex because they have the means to do so, leaving 40 D.E. residents currently existing in SRO's (where conditions vary from sub-standard to subhuman) on the outside looking in? Forty people will hit the jackpot on their quarter. Great! This agreement needs to be renegotiated now before Minister George Abbott gets a chance to say Woodwards, what Woodwards, and quietly slinks away while we all get left holding the bag - half a bag actually. Ian MacRae.

On ideation. .. 6 enemies of the mind are: Passion or longing for worldly objects; Anger; Avarice (greed); attraction/enchantment/attachment to worldly objects; Pride; Envy. 8 fetters of the mind are: Hatred; Fear; Doubt; Shame; Censure, hypocrisy; bondage oflineage; vanity of culture; false sense of prestige. Struggle is the essence oflife. One's humanity is revealed in fighting against aggressors. The use of force against an aggressor is valour and desisting from such use offorce is cowardice. Injustice gains temporary triumph if a fight is started without acquiring proper strength. It is necessary, therefore, to acquire adequate strength before declaring war against an aggressor. To pardon an aggressor before correcting his/her nature would mean encouraging injustice if the aggressor is bent on destroying you; Whether you use force or not, it would be proper to die at least giving a blow to the best ofyour might, without waiting for collection ofadequate forces. Pra' nava

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Coming up to the Year of the Monkey

Christmas comes early for BC landlords

Vancouver- Rents in BC will become even more unaffordable now that the government has announced that landlords will be able to raise rents by at least 4.6%. The provincial government revealed Friday that the new Residential Tenancy Act will come into effect on January I, 2004. "Rents in BC have been steadily going up even under our current system of rent protection," said Tenants' Rights Action Coalition (TRAC) Coordinator Linda Mix. "This rent increase guideline which the government waited until the last minute to announce is clearly a gift for landlords." TRAC asserts that in addition to the much higher rent increases, landlords will now be able to charge tenants many fees and deposits that were not allowed under the current Act, making it more unaf~ordable for tenants to obtain rental housing. TRAC IS concerned that tenants in BC will be spending substantially more of their income on rent, already one of the most expensive housing markets in the country. "It's disappointing that government has not considered the reality ofthe rental market in BC where rents are high and increasing, and landlords get more than a fair return on their investment," said TRAC Community Legal Worker, Kris Anderson. The new Residential Tenancy Act has many other new mandatory requirements that impact both landlords and tenants coming into force in two weeks, but so far TRAC has not seen how government will communicate these changes to landlords and tenants across the province. For more information contact: Linda Mix, Coordinator (604) 255-3099 ext. 222 (604) 327-9015 or (778) 839-8665

Kris Anderson, Community Legal Worker (604) 255-3099 ext. 223 or (604) 216-0090

I need a new language (sick to death ofthe old one) 'Gotta butt?' must be their way to say 'Hi' Here, lemmee make my problem yours. You try gentle persuasion.. don't work You try forbearance.. don't work Finally you get so fed up you strike out Violence not love seems to be all some people know So we need a new lexicon, a new way of dealing with the poverty, the abuse Ifyou stop abusing others will they stop? Is the answer in silence and heavy stares? Do you really want violence to be the only language reducing us to the lowest common denominator being more savage than wild dogs?? Is that the best we can do? Snarling at the trough, fighting over leftovers? Is this what your mamma wanted, forever bickering, fighting like dogs for table scraps? Surviving without principles isn't worth your soul IS THAT IT? RaSun Ho

Come join in on a Lantern and Monkey King Maskmaking workshop to prepare for Chinese New Year,

tne Year ofthe Monkey Thursday, January 15th, 3 PM in the Theatre Rika Uto, Community Programmer Carnegie Community Centre 40 I Main Street Vancouver, B.C. V6A 21/ Phone: (604) 6653003 Fax: (604) 606 2736 â&#x20AC;˘

Hon. Paul Martin Office ofthe Prime Minister 80 Wellington Street House of Commons Ottawa ON, KIA OA6

Dear Prime Minister,

I wanted to take this opportunity to offer my congratulations as you take on the challenging role of Prime Minister. Like many, I watched as the new members ofyour cabinet were sworn in on Friday December 12. I was shocked to discover that there would no longer be a Minister of State (Housing). Later that day, CMHC did confirm that Hon. David Anderson, Minister ofthe Environment would be the Cabinet member responsible for that specific crown corporation. This sends a strong message that affordable housing has been further downgraded by your government. We are facing a nation wide affordable housing shortage and we need strong dedicated leadership. As you are well aware, in November of2001 the federal government signed with the provinces and territories an Affordable Housing Framework Agreement. Now, more than two years later, many of the provinces have not matched the federal monies as agreed to. Without a member of cabinet focused on housing, I see little chance of any significant progress made on this file. As Housing Critic and co-chair ofthe Liberal task force on housing when your party was in opposition you made strong denouncements of the then federal government. In 1990 you made the following statement about the Conservative government's lack of leadership around affordable housing: It ••• the government sits there and does nothing; it refuses to .apply urgent measures that are required to reverse this deteriorating situation...The lack of affordable housing contributes to and accelerates the c~cle ofpoverty, which is reprehensible in society as nch as ours. It

I urge .your government to make affordable housing a pnonty. The federal government must be an active player in insuring Canadians have access to decent and affordable housing. As you promise change and democratic reform let's also see basic principles of equality met by showing strong federal leadership in the area of affordable housing. I look forward to your response on this important Issue. Sincerely, Libby Davies MP Vancouver East Libby Davies MP Libby Davies MP 483 West Block 2412 Main Street House of Commons Vancouver, BC V5T 3E2 Ottawa, ON KIA OA6 Ph. (604) 775-5800 Ph. (613) 992-6030 Fax (604) 775-5811 Fax (613) 995-7412 Em:

Think About this .. Can you imagine working for a company that has a little more than 300 employees and has the following statistics: -30 have been accused of spousal abuse -9 have been arrested for fraud -14 have been accused of writing bad cheques -95 have directly or indirectly bankrupted at least 2 businesses -4 have done time for assault -55 cannot get a credit card due to bad credit -12 have been arrested on drug related charges -4 have been arrested for shoplifting -16 are currently defendants in lawsuits -62 have been arrested for drunk driving in the last year Can you guess which organization this is? It is the 301 MP's in the Canadian Parliament. The same group that cranks out hundred of new laws designed to keep the rest of us in line. Which one did you vote for? TAKEN FROM THE OTTAWA CITIZEN

WHAT IS THE CORPORATE AGENDA? An agenda is a list of things to do. Big corporations in Canada have lists of things that they want government to do. Almost all of these things will help big corporations make more profits. Almost all ofthem will also make the rich richer and increase the numbers of poor people.

Free trade lets corporations move all over the world demanding lower wages, lower taxes and more subsidies. Instead of increasing wages and living standards in other countries, like Mexico, the "free trade" will mean degrading Canadian standards to compete with places like Mexico.

HOW DO WE KNOW THAT THE BIG CORPORATIONS HA VE AN AGENDA? The corporations have formed groups-like the Business Council on National Issues, the Fraser Institute, the Canadian Manufacturer's Association, and more. These groups have offices and staffs. They make statements. They write briefs and news releases. The people in these groups make speeches at business lunches and dinners. They hold conferences. Some big companies, especially the big banks, make statements on their own. If you look at these statements, briefs, and new stories, you can make a list of what corporations want governments to do. This list is the corporate agenda. Here are some of the 'things to do' that are on the corporate agenda: - Keep unemployment high. That way workers are more desperate to accept low wage jobs; - Cut government spending on health, education, welfare. This reduces the need to tax rich people & corporations. It makes people more desperate to accept any kind of work; - Keep wages low. This means minimum wages should be low. Big corporations don't like laws that stop them from paying women and minorities less than men; - Reduce the amount of unemployment insurance and the number of people who can get it. This makes workers more desperate to take any job; - Privatize government services. This means that private companies will be able to make profit from things like education, health, the Post Office. It means that wages get lower because privatized services are more likely to be non-union; - Tax poor and middle income people more. Tax rich people and corporations less. Big corporations call this "reforming the tax system to favour investment." The G.S.T. is part of this; - Spread free trade throughout the whole world. "Free" trade takes away the power of elected governments to make certain laws that would create jobs, require investment, keep profits in Canada.

By Jean Swanson

From Libby Davies' Community Links Bulletin: Consider [Paul] Martin's actions on the following: - On the economy: Debt reduction and disproportionately high tax cuts for the wealthy are his economic priorities. Yet when the federal surplus hit an unprecedented $130 billion-none of this went to improve EI, childcare, tuition fees, or homecare tor the sick _ On same sex marriage: he says there hasn't been enough cebate about it, and he welcomes other "options" - On the environment: he supposedly supports the Kyoto climate change treaty, but says we need to "layout a plan." He opposes mandatory labeling on genetically modified food - On peace: he dodged taking a stand on George Bush's illegal war on Iraq _ On Gordon Campbell "In all my years in politics. I have rarely heard such a breath of fresh air"

We have our work cut out (or us!

771[" year, Carnegie received a letterfrom an English artist in London named Julia Tant. She represents the Board ofher local Carnegie Library. huilt in Herne Hill, London with Andrew Carnegie 's money in 1904. She had heard oj'our Anniversary celehration and, since her local Carnegie is celebrating its too" Anniversary this year, she suggested we "twin" our Carnegies and share stories ofour activities and struggles in our respective communities. This Autumn, J sent Julia a package including some copies ofour newsletter, pictures ofour huilding, and a copy ofthe Footprints Mosaic Project hooklet (and much more!) Just before Christmas, J received her reply, including this drawing and greetings to all ofusfrom The Friends ofthe Carnegie Lihrary, Herne Hill, London! Gena Thompson

Greetings to All at Carnegie Centre Vancouver! Dear Gena and all CCC board directors, I believe you've begun correspondence with Julian Tant, one ofthe founder members of the Friends of Carnegie Library, Herne Hill, here in Southeast London. I am relatively new to Herne Hill but Julia has asked me, as the current Chair of the Friends Committee, to write introducing our Friends group, which I am happy to do. Julia passed around our meeting Gena's letter of September, together with the super package of information about your wonderful Carnegie Centre in Vancouver. Julia and we others on the Committee thank you for your letter and card - as well as all the other information you have sent, which is very interesting. The photos showing your building and its corner site are magnificent. We have also visited your website - very impressive! Reading about all the community activities that go on in your Carnegie makes us realise there is so much more that could be achieved at ours. First. ours is still only a public library and there is no current proposal to extend its uses, although a consultation is under way. In fact our Carnegie was only reprieved from closure last year (2002) - when it was on the brink of being sold - probably for conversion into residential apartments, as it is located is a residential side street (by contrast with your downtown site). In fact no-one really understands why the particular site was considered "ideal" for a library, as it is nowhere near a main thoroughfare and is rather off the beaten track. For decades until quite recently

the public services and also public buildings and spaces in the London Borough of Lambeth were criminally neglected and the Carnegie as well as other lovely buildings fell into terrible disrepair. The new Borough Council is politically balanced and now has some good people, trying to make good the ravages of past neglect. But they have no magic wand and some buildings may still be lost - we hope the Carnegie won't be one ofthem. It is a truly lovely Edwardian building dating from 1906; as soon as you walk in, you feel the combination ofits solidity and its wonderful amount of light, which comes from the glass dome in the roof of the main room as well as the large windows on all sides. The building is "Listed Grade 2" which means the Government has put it on a List of buildings of special architectural merit. No alteration can be made to it without obtaining "listed building consent" from the relevant government Conservation officers. In fact most of the building has been closed to the public over the years - the non-public areas are used for various central library offices, etc. but at least they are still in the public domain in the sense that they have not been leased to commercial entities. As regards the fabric of the building, a huge amount of money is required just to do basic repairs (for example to the root) -let alone restore it to its former glory. The Friends group was formed by Julia Tant and others in the I990s to fight closure of our Carnegie, and their eventual success in 2002 was a local triumph. Since then we have been forging a new relationship with Lambeth Libraries, which we hope will be a fruitful partnership. It is still early days but things are looking hopeful. At present, despite the large overall size of the building, the public space is only 3 rooms - the Main Library, the Children's Library, and the Gallery Room. The rest is offices and store rooms for Lambeth Council. Until 2002 the Gallery Room was used as a store (junk or lumber) room. Julia and others cleared and redecorated it and now it is gaining use as a picture gallery - as well as being used for clubs such as Homework Club; Chess Club; and Amity Group (a weekly adult literacy class). Our most recent library improvement project is the installation of a proper gallery system for hanging pictures securely by means of an aluminium rail or track fitted neatly under the original picture rail, from which hang detachable rods on

which pictures can be fixed (i.e. without damaging the walls). This is a secure system, as the rods lock to the rail and the pictures lock to the rods. The beauty is that all of the rods can be taken away, leaving the walls clear. In response to your package I am enclosing a (rather slimmer) pack of information on Herne Hill and our Carnegie, compiled for you by Julia. As you will see the Welcome card was made by Julia herself (who is a trained artist). Please continue to correspond principally with Julia, who proposed the "twinning" concept so enthusiastically. May I wish you all a very happy Festive Season, and Good Luck in 2004.

John Turvey Retires On behalf of everyone at DEY AS, it is with sadness and regret that I announce that John Turvey has officially left his position as Executive Director of DEY AS and has moved to a disability pension due to a chronic medical condition. DEY AS has been in the process of organizing a large community party to celebrate John's career and to extend our good wishes to him and Deb on their retirement. To that end, we had set a date in early February. However, John unexpectedly ended up in hospital over the holidays and has just gone home. It is now obvious that he will not be up to such a large gathering quite that quickly. We will be working with John and Deb on the timing of this get-together and will announce the date as soon as it is set. Anyone wishing to contact John or Deb can reach them at or dmearns@telus.net. I am honoured that the DEYAS board has chosen me to act as John's replacement. I will never equal John's accomplishments but will do my best to work with you all to continue his legacy. Judy McGuire

CARNEGIE POOL CHALLENGE Sunday, 18 January, at 11 am will see the Homenchuk Challengers in a contest for bragging rights against the Carnegie Ball Breakers. The Homenchuk Challengers consists of6 brothers and I niece; brother Len, won the 1974 BC Amateur Snooker championship and niece, Mary Ellen, won the 1979 BC Ladies Snooker, 1981 Canadian Junior Snooker and, in 1986, BC's eight ball championship. All of them learned their craft from their dad and grandad, Mike Homenchuk; Mary Ellen also got extra lessons from her dad, Elmer. Mike spent many an afternoon playing at the old Western Sports gym which was located across the street from Carnegie Centre. Their dad is long gone now but all of them honed their skills in the bars, legions and pool halls ofthe city. Elmer plays a mean game ofgolf, among other games, and his daughter Mary Ellen is a staple in the pool community ofthe lower mainland. Len makes his home in Davis Bay now and regularly plays at the Sechelt Legion. John is a regular player with the guys at Bonsor Recreation Centre and Fred plays mostly at his home m Surrey. That leaves brother Howard, who resides in Courtney, and Albert, who volunteers his time at Carnegie and is one ofthe organizers of the tournament. The Carnegie Ball Breakers consist of AI Wilby, Pete Yukon, Richard Pelletier, Rej Milot, Mark Denbak, Dave Jack, Bill Piggot and Tom Coffey -all of whom are members and regular players at Carnegie Community Centre. Choosing the players to participate in the tournament was difficult as there are many excellent players at Carnegie. These gentlemen all play snooker and nine ball and are looking forward to the challenge against the Homenchuks. We may either smother the divine fire ofyouth or we may feed it. We may either stand stupidly staring as it sinks into a murky fire of crime and flares into the intermittent blaze offolly or we may tend it into a lambent flame with power to make clean and bright our dingy city streets. (Jane Addams, 1909)

Submitted by W Miles

DOWNTOWN EASTSIUE VOlJTH ACTIVITIES SOCIETY

NEEULE EXCHANGE - 221 Main; 8:30am - 8pm every day NEEULE EXCHANGE VAN - 3 Routes: City - 5:45pm - 11:45pm 604-685-6561 Overnight - 12:30am - 8:30am Downtown Eastside - 5:30pm - 1:30am

49 W.Cordova 604-251-3310

ONLY THE BANK IS LEAVING The Four Corners Bank at Main and Hastings is shutting down services. There are still three other organizations in the building who will be continuing to provide services in 2004. Pathways Information Centre provides information and connections to all available services in the area. Fast Track to Employment and Aboriginal Connection to Employment will still be there working in their area. They all look forward to helping you as usual.

0 ~tIrriiii~11e ". :. ·-=·E=-·. :. W. ;. .: 5:; ,. ; L~E T"'- ":T -: E~R:"-l.1 ~~. -lOI Main Street, Vancouver V6A 217

......: NEWSI.t:rn:R IS A PIIBUCAl'lON (WT...: ('ARNUilF. £:()1\1I\IlINIH' n:N"'RF. ASSOCIA1'ION.

ArtiCles represent the views of individual contributors and not of the Association.

2003 DONATIONS

Libby D.-$60 Barry for Dave McC -$100 _: Nancy H.$30 Margaret D.-$25 Hulda R.-$5 Val A.$18 Wm B-$20 Mary C-$50 Paula R-$15 Rolf A.-$55 Bruce 1-$50 BCTF-$IO U'mista - $40 Heather S.-$25 RayCam-$25 Gram -$100 Paddy -$50 Sarah E.-$IO Charles F.-$IO Rosemary Z.-$20 Joanna N.-$20 Jim G.-$150 Glen B.-$75 John S.-$IOO Penny G.-$41 Liz S.$5 Jenny K.-$18 Celeste W.$30 Sandy C.$20 Dara C.-$20 Ellen W.-$150 Audrey -$20 Wes K.-$15 Rockingguys -$25 Joanne H.-$20 The Edge Community Liaison Ctt -$200 Jay H.-$25 Bob S.-$40 Christopher R.-$25 Anonymous -$5.02

hlilor: Paul Taylor. Cover art & layout hy Diane Wood

Suhmlsslon deadline for the nnt Issue: Thursday, January 29

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The Carnegie Community CentreAssociation publications committee sincerely regrets thatthe article in the December 151 issuecaused offense to the members ofSt. James Church.

Catholic Nuns Jailed for Civil Disobedience Settinga precedent that may be used against other peace activists, three nuns waited injail 10 months, facingthe possibility of being incarcerated for the remainder oftheir lives, after they symbolically disarmed a Minuteman III nuclear missile silo in northern Colorado last October. The three defendants, Ardeth Platte, 66, Carol Gilbert, 55, and Jackie Hudson, 68, entered the military facility dressed in toxic clean-up suits with the slogan "CWIT (Citizen Weapons Inspection Team" writtenon the front and "Disarmament Specialist" on the back. " The nuns symbolically tapped hammers on the ~ tracks that allow the silo to fire, poured their own . blood to form crosses on the tracks, said a liturgy and sang hymns before their arrest. ( A jury convicted the women on two charges - obstruction of national defence and injury to USA . property - charges that could've brought the women up to 30 years imprisonment. The nuns have remained behind bars since their arrest last October, refusingto accept bail because they could not promise to avoid other acts of dissent. (source. Yes! A Journal of Positive Futures

WWW.vesmagazine.org )

Carnegie Publications Committee Regrets st

The December 1 issueof the Carnegie Newsletter hadan articleby Kevin Annet("Comforting the Afflicted") whose language was offensive to members of the St. James Church inour community. The editorof the Newsletter reprinted the editorial policyof the Carnegie Board [Dec.15] as a reminder ofthe conditions for articles to be SUbmitted. Because the editorial position of the newsletter isa voluntary one, it is not possible to verify all articles submitted. Wetherefore wantto pointouttwo of the most important criteria: *"AII contributors are required to ensurethe factualaccuracy of any material submitted for PUblication" and *"Nocontributions willbe considered for publication that are or mightreasonably be construed to be racist,derogatory, discriminatory or demeaning of persons, groups or organizations."

The Pa!!! of Growing !lJ! Nuns walking on whispering feet, Threatening faces behind habits, quiet, trembling littlechildren afraid of their own voices. Brown skin and faces looking and waiting hoping for a home, helpless near death. Waiting for our parents, never to be seen again, looking out of broken windows Dreaming, to be taken back to the Rez. The young fearing the priest the fear that comes in the night, he hand under the sheets, exploring your body. then as you grow the pain, humiliationand the shame Never to be a child again. as the sexual humiliationgoes beyond touch now a woman before your time. Then the years of drugs, abuse, suicides, alcoholism, Blackouts Then possible death. But still alive, hoping for help in a dark world ofdespair. this is me even today But now I have found love, No verbal or physical abuse, a person who shows me heavenly bliss each night, a person to share hopes and dreams with a person :0 spend eternity with I.inda Boyle

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I was asked to come to a meeting where I was to provide some input into the planning of an event for our book club (MainandHastings Book dub). We were reading "The Life of Pi" about a young man's survival in a lifeboat. Since I really enjoyed reading about the adventures ofthe boy, I thought that I might provide some input with the welcome for the Booker Prize-winning author Yann Martel. I hadn't realized they wanted someone (anyone??) to take part in the meeting. T here were only 2 people at this meeting besides me. I didn't know if it was a secret meeting or just the first ofit's kind. I still don't know. Anyway, somehow I was now on the planning committee. I didn't mind because lately I've been kinda sick and I wanted something to do to get back into circulation. It didn't seem like a hard job. Input into the planning. Yeah right!! I ended up doing things I never thought I would have to do but I enjoy a challenge and this might be an adventure.. although at the time I didn't think it was much of one. Because I was on the committee I was given 1st right of refusal to the workshop and the reading. I refused the workshop but because in the past I have written a few articles for the Newsletter I was told that I should attend the workshop and maybe I would get something from it. After all Yann is one of Canada's better authors and he was giving the workshop. Reluctantly I agreed but only on the condition that my place be given to a more deserving person if the occasion should arise. I guess it didn't. One of the best things that could happen to me did. I met the amazing Yann and the lovely Ali. They are a couple of great individuals, very inspiring and very friendly. I was glad just to meet them and would have been happy just doing that. Now, somehow, I feel that I can actually w.rite a story (good or bad doesn't matter) so this is just the beginning and you people may get stuck with my prose more often than you like. The Setup- we were given an agenda for the workshop. Basically, a setting (park bench), a chance to develop 2 characters and insert some dialogue between the 2. The bench could be anywhere. The characters could be anything or anyone. A man and his conscience, a dog and a flea ... whatever we wanted. We were given a sheet of paper on how to

develop a character. The dialogue could also be what ever we wanted it to be. The only stipulation was that they somehow interact at the bench. In the workshop there were some really interesting concepts and I thought, out ofcourtesy, that I should finish mine. So here goes. I hope that it is enjoyable and ifit's not you can write Yann and tell him. Setting: An old wooden bench, polished from years of use. No chance of ever getting a sliver. Sitting on a back porch close to a crabapple tree. Out ofthe cool breeze or wind from the North, you can see the sun rise or set ifyou are on the bench when these events occur. A good place to do some quiet reflection, before the day begins or as it nears its end. With the overhang, dry when it rains, a cool place in the summer or a warm place in the cold of a prairie winter. Characters: Katie, an older woman, recently widowed, a farm wife. Owns the farm now that hubbie Karl has passed on. They have 2 sons who live in the city a hundred miles away. Hoping to take care of Karl's most prized possession, his bird-hunting dog, a Setter named Blue who is nearing the end of his hunt. Blue, who refuses to do anything until his master returns, but he has affection for Katie and will do anything she asks. Dialogue: Katie comes outside and sits on the bench She is in a good but quiet mood in the middle of the afternoon during early autumn (Indian summer). With some hired help and the neighbors, it has been a good harvest. The insurance company man has called and there is a nice sum ofmoney left after all the bills and other incidentals have been taken care of after the funeral. With that and the crop money she should be able to stay on the farm and take care of Blue for what will probably be his final winter here on this earth. Then she will have to sell the farm and move into town near her grandchildren. Each son is the proud father of a boy and a girl. Blue, the old bird-hunting dog comes up and lays down by her feet. Katie, looking out at the empty field, scratches him behind the ears and says, "He's still looking after us Blue, even after all these months". Blue looks up at her and thinks, "I wonder what she's rambling on about now. I hope Karl gets home soon. Ever since he's been gone she seems to cry a lot and ramble on. I wish she'd play fetch with me or something. Things sure aren't like they used to be."

DJ Mix with Cody Come rock your socks off and roll the night away th Friday, February 6 2004 7pm - 10pm Carnegie Theatre

Movie Night with Colleen:

Karaoke with Darrell, Friday, February 13th 2004 7pm - 10pm Carnegie Theatre

'Skid Row' in the 50's Mystery Movie Friday, 3anuary 23rd, 2004 7pm-9pm Carnegie Theatre Everyone Welcome

I Public Forum: Seeking an End to Women's Poverty Part 4 Putting Violence Against Women on to the Social Agenda a series presented by Vancouver Rape Relief and Women's Shelter

WISE Hall, 1882 Adanac

Friday, January 16,2004 7pm-l0 pm

CALLING ALL ARTISTS! The Gallery@Artisan Square on Bowen Island is putting together an exhibit of art from and about the Downtown Eastside, entitled "StreetArt: Images of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside" This will feature the works of the late SAM RODDAN, as well as art from local downtown eastside artists. All gallery commissions will go back into art programming at the Carnegie Centre. If you are interested in submitting work for this exhibit, please contact the Gallery before January 21, 2004.

Sara Wansbrough, Gallery co-ordinator Bowen Island Arts Council P.O. Box 211, Bowen Island, BC, VON 1GO 604-947-2454 www.biac.ca

They are taking away our welfare ~hat is our fair share? How will we get it? And how WIll we help each other survive until then? Join us for: Learning centres to discuss expectations we can all have of our government. We will explore together what social changes we must initiate to get a redistribution of wealth and what we must do together to survive through the transition to our fair share. A panel discussion will be part ofthe learning centres. Speakers in the panel discussion include: * Sharon Yandle, Feminist Union Activist * Fay Blaney, Aboriginal Women's Action Network * Jackie Ackerly, Together Against Poverty * Lee Lakeman, Vancouver Rape Reliefand Women's Shelter * Kim Pate, Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies * Dara Culhane, Moder;tor This event is free and open to the public. Space may be limited, please rsvp - 604-872-8212 Free childcare available, please rsvp

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