AROUND THE BLOCK
A COMMUNITY SAYS GOOD-BYE > SEE FAREWELL TO SHANNON CAMPBELL PAGE 4 ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009 sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com PLEASE TAKE ME I’M FREE
Issue # 4
Community Schools Saved
by Juanita Black
by Nancy Savoie
I am happy to tell our readers, six months into production, that we are now printing 7000 copies of Around the Block. Many are hand delivered while others are placed in strategic locations around the city, free of charge. After three issues I thought you might like to know how many residents are contributing to Around the Block. There have been 70 stories written by 67 contributors from our priority neighbourhoods. They have also offered 67 pictures for the newspaper. Our community partners have offered 62 articles or Public Service Announcements, with 53 agencies contributing. Below you will see quotes from many of the volunteers on what Around the Block has meant to them. The Caledon Institute of Social Policy in Ottawa, Ontario has a story about our newspaper in their latest newsletter. You can read it at www.caledoninst.org. We welcome Alma Beck as the new Neighbourhood Community Developer; she will work with all the Neighbourhood Assistants to make sure they have everything they need to work in the communities. Brad Snodgrass will be the youth representative from the Teen Resource Centre (TRC) and will write a story for every issue. Vibrant Communities has two French co-op students from Samuel De Champlain until the end of June and they will be writing a story in French for the April and June issues. Thank you to all who attended the first writing workshop with journalism instructor Mark Leger. The second workshop will be on April 15th at 10:00 am at the Community Health Centre. The theme for this workshop will be interviews. We had an amazing turnout for the photojournalism workshop. Students were paired with excited volunteers who had many questions about their cameras. They were then broken down into five teams with a representative from each community to crisscross the city, taking pictures for future issues of Around the Block. I am proud of all of our volunteers and if you want to join the excitement of this growing newspaper and feel you have a story to write, a picture to submit, or time to volunteer, just email us at sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com or phone 693-0904. It’s a great way to experience networking, communities, and partners working together.
We’re the Cat’s Meow! by Newspaper Volunteers and Community Partners
Photo Courtesy of Allan Rouse Team Old North End
In May 2008, concerned parents in Crescent Valley set up a meeting to talk about the school closure issues. People advocated in different ways: by having Patty Joe and Amy do up the questions for the survey, Rosie and I went door to door with petitions and the surveys, etc. Quotes from parents were used when presenting to the District Education Council.
We invited Scott Crawford to a meeting to help us with a press release and the community members were very appreciative. We had a press release on September 23rd at noon where Rita Tyler, Rose Mears and Shannon Campbell spoke to the press and raised important issues. Mayor Ivan Court invited the residents from Crescent Valley and the Old North End to a press conference where Honorable Ed Doherty asked me to write a little note to Mr. Lamrock and said he would pass it along, I wrote “Minister Lamrock, I would like to personally thank you for choosing to keep the schools open. If you were here right now I’d give you a big hug. Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart. It meant a lot, Nancy Savoie.” To all of those who participated at all the meetings, I thank you!!!!! Never give up because this is an example that our VOICES get heard. Photo Courtesy of Allan Rouse WE DID IT! WE WON!!!!!!!!!! Team Crescent Valley Here is what our volunteers and partners have had to say about volunteering on Around the Block: “It’s putting your community out there in the forefront, expanding and letting other neighbourhoods know what’s coming along.” ~ Jennifer “The thing I apprecaite about the paper is the (5) unique voices it gives to the priority communities.” ~ Andrew “I am involved with quite a few groups within the community and I always value most groups like this one, where I can actually see concrete results taking place and people being empowered and gaining valuable skills in the process.” ~ Danny “It is a wonderful way to get to know the other neighbourhoods, especially since it is put together by the people who live in them.” ~ Mary Lou “One thing that Around the Block has meant to the teens is a chance to write about things that are important to them.” ~ Kate “For me personally and professionally your publication has allowed me the opportunity to really become involved in my school community beyond the four walls of the school. I apprecaite how you’ve engaged the youth of our community in the paper, both as authors and contributors.” ~ Jennifer “I’m proud to say that I was involved with the project and I remember my favourite parts very clearly, when we did Issue 1 and I was meeting with groups or persons from the community, it was exciting to see how they viewed their pages as “theirs” and seeing them decide on how each page was going to look.” ~ Joseph
Old North End ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
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ONE Change Chinese Dinner by Tara Parlee
ONE Change hosted a Chinese Dinner at the North End Community Center on February 28, 2009. The idea was to have dinner for the residents of the Old North End. At the same time, volunteers met with small groups in an attempt to discover the best way to get messages out to the Community. There were 120 people who attended the event; many more than were expected.
Photo Courtesy of ONE Change Brandon and Gerry enjoy the Chinese Dinner at the NECC
Michelle Bainbridge planned the Chinese Dinner, and her husband, Russell Bainbridge, catered the delicious meal. Tara Parlee commented, “it was so well planned, and both Michelle and Russell were well prepared for the event; they work very well as a team.” The staff of ONE Change would like to thank the volunteers who helped with the event, the youth of ONE Change for their invaluable assistance, the master chef Russell for his culinary skills, the Board Members of ONE Change, the Staff at Lorne School, the Volunteers at the Main Street Baptist Church, and all the members of the Community who, in any way, contributed to the success of the event.
Global Youth Service Day
Photo Courtesy of Centennial School Youth from Centennial School planting marigolds for Marigolds on Main Street
CalNet Free Computer Courses ONE Change, 223 Victoria Street
April and May Schedule Facebook Training, Improve Your Typing Skills, Organizing with Files and Folders, Internet Safety, Creating Forms, Excel 2003, Exploring the Basics Photoshop
by Kevin Wilson
It’s not too often that you hear about teens in positive ways. Usually it’s “Teen arrested for fight”, or “Teen arrested for vandalism.” It isn’t too often you open the newspaper or watch the news and hear something good about teenagers. It is for this reason that Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) is important. “GYSD is a time in the year when we come together to focus the world’s attention on what young people are contributing every single day,” according to GYSD.org. But really, it’s a time where instead of focusing on the negative, we take a look at the positive. Yes, bad things happen, but more good things happen that go unnoticed. GYSD is the largest service event in the world today; millions of young people will participate at this year’s event on April 24th-26th. Let’s work together and get teens back on the radar in only positive ways. Stay tuned to radios and newspapers to learn how you can contribute. ONE Change 223 Victoria Street Saint John, NB E2K 1L9 Telephone: 506-635-2035 Website: theonechangeinc.org
Contact for Other Inquiries is: Tara Parlee at 635-2035 or taraparlee@gmail.com Contact for Youth: Gina Reid at 635-2035 or theonechangeinc@nb.aibn.com
This page compliments of: Trevor A. Holder M.L.A. Saint John-Portland Constituency Office 229 Churchill Boulevard Telephone: (506) 657-2335 Email: trevor.holder@gnb.ca
Limited space available, registration is required. Contact Michelle, Neighbourhood Assistant, Old North End at 635-2035.
A Success Story by Michelle Bainbridge
A little background on me, I grew up in a single parent home where money was scarce. I raised my children as a single mom with money also being an issue. Therefore, I am well aware of the difficulty of having very little to live on. Over the past ten years, I have gone back to school, received my High School diploma, Paramedic diploma and recently finished my Child and Youth Care program. I am a business owner and love spending time with my family and friends. It wasn’t easy and felt almost impossible at times to get to where I am today. Although, now that I am finished another chapter in my life I look forward to the next hurdle. I have learnt to take every struggle, embrace it and learn everything I can from it. My accomplishments are my own and it wasn’t without the power of courage and determination to succeed. I was recently hired as the manager at CalNet (Community Adult Learning Network) at ONE Change in the Old North End, helping others on their way to their own success.
SOUTH END ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
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A Man with a Vision by Dawn LeBlanc, Board President, South End Day Care Centre Inc
In 1968 Ken Sullivan, a man who grew up in the South End, established the first non-profit daycare in Saint John. He saw a need for safe and affordable childcare that would give children from lower income families a head start. First located on St. James Street, it eventually moved to its present location at 310 Prince William St., Ken’s childhood home. Sullivan’s Bar occupied the first floor and Ken’s family lived in the upstairs apartment. The bar is now in the N.B. museum. Ken was passionate about music, Photo Courtesy of South End Day playing string bass with a Dixieland band for many years. He ran away to Care New York at sixteen to seek out the Back Row: the late Ken Sullivan, great jazzmen. His other loves were Tom Gribbons, Dana Snodgrass Front Row: Shea, Kennedy, and Peggy, his wife of 50 years, his son Oliver Glen and daughter Jill and the South End Day Care. For forty years he attended board meetings, his last in December 2008 - Ken passed away in January 2009. Throughout the forty years Ken was a staunch supporter of the Day Care and its strongest advocate. He was named Honorary Chairman for Life and was able to attend the 40th anniversary of the Day Care in September 2008. He had a lot of wonderful stories and will be remembered with fondness and laughter.
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Make and Take Meals by Nicole MacNeill
Parents of SJB-KE students are cooking up a storm!! Each month, parents are invited to come together to make healthy meals that will feed their families. Each person takes home three family-sized meals for $10.00, gets some social time with other parents, and helps plan the next month’s meals. April’s menu is: Scalloped Potatoes, Beef Stew, and Macaroni & Hamburger Casserole We will be meeting on April 15th, from 5:30pm until about 8:30pm. This is the same night as the meeting regarding the South End grocery store, and since the meeting is at the South End Community Centre, we will take a break so that everyone may participate in the community meeting. All parents are invited to join in this program, and you can contact Nicole MacNeill at nicole.macneill@nbed.nb.ca or 658-5357 if you are interested.
Photos Courtesy of Jennifer Edison Signs of Spring in the South End
Make Poverty History in the Maritimes by Jennifer Edison
A lot of people have helped to keep the South End Day Care going, but it took one special person to get it started and that was Ken Sullivan.
Green Thumb Clubs by Mark Leger
The students at St. John the Baptist/King Edward School aren’t waiting until Spring to get to work on their community garden plots in Rainbow Park. They formed Green Thumb Clubs this winter, and have been learning how to plant and care for vegetables with the help of community garden volunteer Miville Couture. There are many classes involved, from kindergarten to Grade 7. Miville has helped them plant many vegetables from seed already, and they’re nurturing them at the school until they can plant everything this summer. “Everyone is keen,” says Miville. “They are cooperative. They are orderly. It’s fun.” The garden is currently looking for more people who want to plant vegetable and flower beds this summer. Beginners are welcome. Miville and other volunteers are happy to help new green thumbs learn how to garden. For more information, contact Mark Leger at 634-1070. E-mail: mleger@stu.ca
During the last weekend of February people from all over the Maritimes gathered in a small Nova Scotia village called Tatamagouche to attend workshops based on poverty. (You may all recognize Tatamagouche from the CBC show, The Week The Women Went.) The first part of the weekend workshops consisted of an Ice-breaker which was called Mapping. We had to draw a map of our lives and the things that are important to us. On the second day we separated into groups New Brunswick/PEI, Nova Scotia and Global. We stayed in our groups for the majority of the weekend. Each of our groups had a few brainstorming sessions and we discovered that the issues of poverty were the same in New Brunswick, PEI and Nova Scotia, with the exception of rural areas. In some rural areas it is very difficult to access services and organizations. However, we are lucky here in the South End; we have easy access to services and we have four strong community groups: South End Sustainable Communities, South Central Citizens Council, PULSE (People United in the Lower South End and SEACAT (South End Area Community Action Team). We all need to reach out and unite to combat poverty!
Rainbow Park Community Garden by Nicole MacNeill
Photo Courtesy of Saint John the Baptist / King Edward School Adrienne Sharkey, Dylan Fogarty, and Gavin Adams Students from SJB-KE assisting with the Rainbow Park Community Garden
Students from SJB-KE will be spending the next few months tending to the beginnings of what will become a part of Rainbow Park Community Garden this summer. Students from Mrs. Cummings’ Grade 1 class, Ms. Hartley’s Grade 3 class, Ms. LeBlanc’s grade 5 class and Mr. Paterson’s grade 7 class are working with South End resident Miville Couture, and are in the process of planting seeds that will grow in their classroom greenhouses over the next few months. The students’ efforts will produce a variety of vegetables, spring onions, broccoli and tomatoes, along with a variety of flowers. Stay tuned for a garden update!
Crescent Valley ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
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www.crescentvalleyresourcecentre.blogspot.com
Spring Clean-Up 2009
Farewell to Shannon Campbell
by Richard Northorp
by Nancy Savoie
Each year as the snow and ice disappear, our streets, sidewalks and lawns reveal the grossness of all the litter as the snows melts after several long winter months. We plan to have our annual Spring Clean-Up to once again beautify our community. Many thanks go out to our Community Police Officer David HartleyBrown and all the residents who give of their time and energy and show Photo Courtesy of CVCTA pride in their community by coming out and helping collect all the litter Dominic & Katie Lewis, Ronald strewn about after a long winter in Crilley, and CST David Hartley-Brown our neighbourhood. participate in the 2008 Spring Clean-
When I first met Shannon, I knew she was going to be a great coordinator. She came into the interview as herself and she adapted well with the community. The kids love her. She never turns them down if they come in and there aren’t any programs. She will ask them, “Hey would you like a drink and a snack?”
Up
The Spring Clean-Up this year will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 11am with the rain date of Sunday, May 31, 2009 at 11am. All meet at CVCTA – 55 MacLaren. CVCTA rewards all those faithful workers with a nice snack of hotdogs, pop, and chips directly following the clean-up.
Separating Seeds by Juanita Black
Photo Courtesy of Jeff Crawford Shannon Campbell
She always has a smile on her face. She is my go to person, if I need information no matter what it is and if she doesn’t know then she will go online to see if she can find the information. I’m always excited to go to the centre to see what Shannon is wearing. I love her little outfits. Shannon and I got to know each other well through knitting therapy, slow cooking classes, and just by dropping in to see her.
She saw something in me that I didn’t recognize and nominated me for the Strong Women Champion and I was one of 30 chosen to receive an award on International Women’s Day. I thank her for that. She went far and beyond her duties to make sure that there are programs in the centre. Shannon will surely be missed when she is gone, by all the community. Most of all by me.
Outgoing Neighbourhood Assistants by Samantha Thomas and Lisa Morris
Photo Courtesy of Juanita Black Pam Crilley, Karen Rodgerson, Bunny Patterson, Elaine Orser, Mona Godin
On Wednesday March 25th, some members of the Crescent Valley Community Garden got together to separate seeds donated to them by the McKenzie Seed Co. As the snow finally starts to melt, garden members patiently await the garden season.
Pat-A-Cake, Pat-A-Cake by Cheryl Brown
Two mothers, a grandmother, two babies and a toddler enjoyed an hour of Parent/Child Mother Goose over the March break at the Crescent Valley Resource Centre. This introductory session was in response to parents requesting information about songs and nursery rhymes and we thought this would be a fun way to meet their request. What many people do not realize is that Mother Goose sessions are actually for the parents, not the children. This program recognizes that parents are the ones who sing children to sleep, tell stories while at the doctor’s office, and bounce their children on their lap at various times of the day for various reasons. Here’s a sample of a gentle bounce rhyme you might learn at Mother Goose: Have your baby face you so you can respond to them. Say or sing: A smooth road (4 times) Have baby on lap and move slowly in a circle. A bumpy road (4 times) Bounce baby gently on lap. A rough road (4x) Bounce baby higher on lap. A hole! Open legs and gently lower baby below lap. Repeat as many times as baby wants! These rhymes and songs are fun for parent and child alike, and are a great way to nurture early language and pre-literacy skills. For more information about Quality Learning New Brunswick, contact Cheryl Brown at sjfamlit@nbnet.nb.ca or 333-2601.
Hi my name is Samantha Thomas and I was the Neighbourhood Assistant for Crescent Valley. I am no longer working there due to getting my education, but that isn’t going to stop me from working in my community. I loved my job along with everybody there. The things that I have taken from there will be with me forever. The best thing that I have taken from there is that the kids will now look up to me and they will now come to my house and ask me for help with whatever it is they need. That alone was well worth it. It also opened a lot of doors in my life as well as others. I now know where to go for help and if I need resource I just ask. I feel more connected with my community now, I didn’t before. I hope that other people get the opportunity that I had and also hope that more people start to reach out to their community for help if needed. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Lisa Morris Last August, I remember a neighbour coming to me with a flyer about a new job called Neighbourhood Assistant. I read the flyer and it talked about helping people in poverty - something I was very interested in. Not only would I be able to help myself, but I could help end poverty. When I was at the interview I was asked what I had hoped to gain from this, I thought about it and answered, “self-worth” and that is exactly what I gained. Not only did I help others, I helped myself. I never asked anyone to do anything I wasn’t willing to do myself. I took advantage of the programs and learned to use my voice. I have a story and I now have the strength to tell it. “I was always looking outside myself for strength and confidence but it comes from within. It is there all the time.” - Anna Freud.
This page compliments of: Crescent Valley Community Tenants Association 55-57 MacLaren Boulevard Telephone: (506) 658-9658 Monthly meetings are held the 4th Tuesday of every month at 7:00pm.
Lower West eXPRESS ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
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Photos Courtesy of the Carleton Community Centre Many of the activities held during Winter Carnival
Winter Carnival by Lisa Murphy
The Carleton Community Centre held it’s Winter Carnival this year from Feb. 8th to Feb. 16th. During the weeklong festivities, we crown our Carleton royalty. Rylie Surrete was crowned our Lady and her Lord was none other than our famous Bacon Andrew Beckingham. Deidre Belyea was crowned our Queen and her handsome King was Jeremy Abric, Princess was Kaitlyn Parsons and our young Prince was Ty Woodhouse. During the winter carnival the children and youth participated in many on going events. The children enjoyed relay races, arts and crafts, contests, spaghetti eating contest, egg toss, slave auctions, karaoke, and many more games. During the week long activities, our mini boys ball hockey team participated in a mini ball hockey tournament. Our Carleton mini boys took the championship! Carleton Community Centre was also the host of a cheerleading event. We had many participants from all over our great city. All the girls and boys were great from individual stunts to group pyramids! The children all had a wonderful time! Thank you to everyone who participated, and all our terrific volunteers and staff for another successful winter carnival!!
Carleton Hockey Teams
West Side P.A.C.T
by Carleton Community Centre
by Mary Lou Price
The Blood/Specimen Collection Centre has had over 200 people use its services since opening one day a week in November 2008. We are hoping that we may be able to offer another morning, along with all day Wednesday. For an appointment please call 693-8735. There will be a My Choices/My Health program, for people living with chronic conditions, beginning May 8th, at the Carleton Community Centre. The program will run for six weeks. For more information, or to register, please call 1-888-747-5511.
The guys and girls ball hockey teams practiced from November until March. They practice for the Annual March Break Tournament.
Westside P.A.C.T. (Police and Community Together) is gearing up again for a Health and Wellness Fair in May, as well as our annual Community Cleanup and BBQ. Last year, over 100 people came to the Wellness Fair held at St. Patrick’s School.
Our guys team has won this tournament five times, with the last time being in 2006. Although they did not win this year, Arron Earl led his team in goal and won the MVP Goal Tender for the tournament! Our girls ball hockey team lost for their first time in 12 years. They played against the Saint John Boys and Girls Club in a best of three games series. Our girls won one game and lost the other two. This ended the 11 straight years of winning that began back in 1998. The girls gave it everyting they had, going all the way to the third game before going down to defeat. Marlee Beale won in the skills competition, and was also named to the All Star team at the end of the tournament.
Community Kitchen: Carleton Community Centre The renovations are finally done to the Carleton Community Centre's new Kitchen. What a beautiful kitchen it is!! The kitchen is available to rent for cooking classes, baby showers, receptions, etc. If you would like further information please contact the Carleton Community Centre at 658-2920.
Photo Courtesy of West Side P.A.C.T Mayor Court having his cholesterol checked at the Health and Wellness Fair
Photo Courtesy of West Side P.A.C.T Children participating in the Community Clean up
Last year, the Community Cleanup involved St. Patrick’s and Beaconsfield Schools, City of Saint John, Westside P.A.C.T., ACAP, Saint John Police Department, Saint John Fire Department, local merchants and volunteers. The school children did an excellent job cleaning garbage out of the parks, and off of the streets.
Waterloo Village ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
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Phoenix Dinner Theatre
Spring has Sprung
by Linda A. Scott
by Nikki Vautour
In December 2003 , the Exmouth Street Church was given a new life when businessmen, David Mills and Garry John purchased the building, destined to be torn down to operate a school for the performing arts. Six months and approximately half a million dollars later, they had brought an 1850’s building up to modern building code keeping as much of the hisPhoto Courtesy David Mills tory of the building intact as possible. The Phoenix Dinner Theater was born with its first performance, Nunsense opening in June 2004. Under the excellent supervision of Rhoda Cusack, the theatre is going into their fifth season. There is much more to the Phoenix Dinner Theatre than an excellent meal and a delightful evening of entertainment. The group attempts to give back to the community at every opportunity they can. In the summer they run children’s program for performing arts called Summer of Rock. They work with the Boys and Girls club, Habitat for Humanity, Hospice, and support four different youth hockey teams. Recently they raised $50,000 for Breast Cancer. As of October 15, 2008 they have hosted 45 major fundraisers and have helped to raise over $500,000.00 for the community and various charities. These men, with the help of the Phoenix Dinner Theatre Players have given new life to this building. They created a remarkable place of entertainment for the citizens of Saint John while still giving the building the respect it has earned over the past 150 years. The cherished Cassavante Organ is still used, the interior of the building has been preserved and many of the pieces of original furniture are on display. Even the name of the theatre came out of the history of the fires in the church. You can visit their website for more information on the Phoenix (www.phoenixdinnertheatre.com). The building and lot of land has had a long and distinguished history.
Your MLA and You
Well, spring is upon us. It’s nice to see the ice finally melting and the weather warming up. That puts a spring in my step. It’s a time for spring cleaning, setting the clocks ahead and enjoying our first BBQ. Raking lawns and painting will be on our lists of things to do. One of the things on my list is the upcoming Clean Up Day. It will be nice to walk down the street and see beauty again. Let’s all do our part to keep our environment clean.
Community Schools’ Update Prince Charles School Please call Mr. Casey at Prince Charles School 658-5355 for more info on the following: Food Purchasing Club, Vision Screening for grades K, 5, 8, Mother Goose Program ages 0 - 3, Kindergarten Registration, and Volunteering Family Center.
What I Like About Prince Charles School by Grades 1 & 2
I like PCS because it is clean. We have good students and awesome teachers. And we have Mrs. Doyle and she is an awesome principal. I really love PCS. I like PCS because we have a Breakfast Program. I really like PCS because we have awesome field trips like to the Sugar Bush. I really like the art we do at PCS. I like PCS because of the teachers. I also like PCS because of the students. Of course I like it because it is the best school ever! I like PCS because we have gym and music and art and math and reading and lunch. I also like PCS because we have nice teachers and lots of fun. I also like the principal. These are some things that I like about school; art, snack, trips and I also like my teacher, Mrs. Walsh and Miss MacDonald.
by Dr. Ed Doherty, MLA, Saint John Harbour
My constituency office lies on windy Water St., where the deep freeze of a hard winter has given way to a still tentative warmth. There’s nothing tentative, however, about the warm glow in my office when we look at the positive developments in this community over the past couple of years, and know that we’ve been a small part of them.
PCS is cool because all the teachers are nice even the principal’s nice. This school is really nice to me. I have fun at this school and I like the principal’s four door truck.
The SJ Community Loan Fund by Cindy Horton
As an MLA, it’s my job to listen to my constituents, and to try to convey the needs and desires of our community to the rest of the MLAs in Fredericton, so that our needs may be considered in the balance with the needs of the rest of the province. I take this job very seriously, and have found much joy in learning from many individuals and organizations in the community, and in making their opinions known. My riding includes the South-Central Peninsula, the Lower West Side, Waterloo Village, the Central Valley and a small portion of the old North End. Saint John Harbour riding, therefore, has both deep needs and deep spirit! To match that spirit, we have supported projects as varied as the community police offices on the West Side and South End, housing projects North and South, and youth services at the Teen Resource Centre.
We’ve moved in! The SJCLF is in their new home at 133 Prince Edward Street. The main focus of the Loan Fund is to help people build self-sufficiency through training and small loans. There are three ways people can get loans from us: Small business loans, Employment loans, and Shelter loans. Please note that it takes at least 2 weeks for us to process loans.
Cindy Horton, Melanie Vautour, Christen Webb, Seth Asimakos
This is the main way an MLA participates in the community: by listening to those who know the needs best and adding government money – really your tax money - to the ideas and the efforts of the community, in order to build and strengthen.
We also offer a few areas of training. The first is the Money Matter$ program. This is a basic money management course. Secondly, we’ve partnered with the Urban Core Support Network to offer a women’s leadership program called Power Up! This is a ten week program for women who are interested in getting involved in their community and ready to take their next step in life.
As an MLA, I take the most pleasure in any help my staff and I are able to provide to individuals: help with housing, employment, & education. We can’t always help, it’s true, but we always try!
The Loan Fund is also growing to offer business training to women! We are also creating an Asset Development Program for people looking to increase their skills for employment and life.
I invite you all to drop in sometime – if you’ve got a problem, or just to say ‘hello’. We’ll be glad to see you, & happy to restore the ‘spring’ in your step with a big smile!
If you have any questions about anything we do, feel free to contact us at 651-5626, or stop into our office. We’re looking forward to becoming a part of the Village community!
YOUTH IN OUR COMMUNITIES ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
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Une Nouvelle Expérience by Mélanie Godin and Emily Woods
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Early Learning Centre for Saint John the Baptist / King Edward School In March, the Province and the Saint John Early Childhood Coalition announced an exciting project for the South End community.
Photo Courtesy of Allan Rouse Minister Schryer announces the Early Learning Centre for Saint John
A new Early Learning Centre will open in September 2009 with thirty new childcare spaces with a family and community focus. For more information, contact Monica Chaperlin at 633-5588.
Photo Courtesy of Juanita Black Emily Wood and Mélanie Godin
Bonjour lecteurs, nous sommes deux étudiantes de la douzième année de l’école Samuel-de-Champlain. Étant donné que nous sommes toutes les deux intéressées dans le domaine de travail social, nous avons été chanceuses de pouvoir commencer un Co-op avec Vibrant Communities et Urban Core Support Network au St. Joseph Community Health Centre. Jusqu’à présent, nous avons eu la chance de visiter First Steps et de travailler avec le Business Community Anti-Poverty Initiative (BCAPI) et le Resource Centre for Youth (TRC). Avant d’avoir commencé notre Co-op, nous n’avions aucune idée à quel point la pauvreté affectait les gens de Saint John. Mais, la réalité est que la pauvreté affecte tout le monde d’une façon ou d’une autre… Nous espérons pouvoir continuer d’en apprendre plus à ce sujet et de faire une différence dans notre communauté. Ont vous invite aussi de nous aider à faire une différence. Vous pouvez nous aider en faisant du bénévolat, en contribuant aux banques alimentaires ou même en faisant un don aux organisations à but non-lucratif ici à Saint John.
Youth Learn & Go! Unleashing Teen Potential! by Wendy MacDermott
In earlier issues we highlighted an exciting project called Learn and Go that brought together over 30 residents to learn skills, develop a project idea, and pitch their idea. We were pleasantly surprised to include a few keen teens and they really enjoyed the program. The TRC and Vibrant Communities are now offering a Youth Learn and Go program where teens 14-18 can attend workshops, work with young mentors and develop a project. For more information about being a mentor or participating, please contact Kate Blackman at katebyep@gmail.com or 647-4850. Transportation and celebration included.
Photo Courtesy of Maria Scaplen Partners and the community have raised $338,622.98 to date for the Flemming Court Park Project in Crescent Valley. The goal is to raise $670,000.
Photos Courtesy of Jennifer Carhart “Who Makes a Difference in Your Life” Wall at Hazen White / St. Francis School
YOUTH IN OUR COMMUNITIES ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
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Success Story
P.R.O. Kids Can Help
by Brad Snodgrass
by Tammy DeSaulniers
When I first started high school I was an anti-social kid who sat in the back of the room and didn’t talk much. Luckily I decided to talk to someone from the teen centre. After a few weeks at the TRC I got involved and now I am far from that small shy kid. I’ve been coming to the teen centre for 4 years and I am now one of the most involved teens at the centre and with my community. One of my biggest events is Global Youth Service Day which is an event that celebrates all the good the teens are doing around the world. This Photo Courtesy of Letisha Eastwood year GYSD is on April 24 to the Brad Snodgrass 26. I encourage all teens to come to the centre, and all parents to allow their teens to come to the centre because it will allow your teens to grow, both emotionally and as members of society.
Are you looking to get your child involved in recreation, but money is tight?
Celebrate what’s Right with the World and EYE SPY Nuggets The theme for April is “Believe It and You Will See It” The theme for May is “Celebrate What’s Right” The theme for June is “Sharing Celebrating What’s Right With the World” Around The Block received these Eye Spy Nuggets from Hazen White St. Francis School. 1. We would like to Celebrate Tyanna Tyler/Kendra Eatman/Naomi McCutchen for Helping Mrs. McGrath make a lovely Christmas tree! 2.We would like to Celebrate Mrs. Carhart for “doing good in the office.” - from Ayden Challoner 3.We would like to Celebrate Tamika Cullins for Being a great friend. 4.We would like to Celebrate Alex Firlotte for “helping our technician with a project.” 5.We would like to Celebrate Makayla Bourgeois for “Sharing her amazing writing with Mrs. Carhart.”
Q: I’ve heard of P.R.O. Kids, but I don’t know much about it. A: P.R.O. Kids is a non-profit program operating out of the Leisure Services Department of the City of Saint John that matches children and teens up to (and including) the age of 18 with organized, registered recreation activities. P.R.O. Kids is a proactive and confidential service offered to all children and youth in Saint John, Quispamsis, Grand Bay-Westfield and Rothesay. Q: What activities are available? A: Children may choose from a wide variety of activities: hockey, dance, music lessons, swimming, soccer and martial arts to a name a few. We have many program partners and are always exploring new ones. You choose where you would like your child to go. If you aren’t sure, the P.R.O. Kids manager will help you decide. Q: How do I apply? A: You may pick up an application form from Leisure Services at 171 Adelaide Street or visit our website at www.prokidssj.ca You can also call the P.R.O. Kids manager at 642-7529 and she will be more than happy to send you one. Q: When should I apply? A: P.R.O. Kids operates on a first come, first serve basis, so be sure to apply as soon as possible. It is recommended that you apply 3-4 months in advance. If you are looking to get your child in an activity for September, it would be ideal to apply in May to make sure you’re approved in time for registration. For more information on P.R.O. Kids, please do not hesitate to contact Tammy DeSaulniers, P.R.O. Kids Manager at 642-PLAY (7529), email: prokids@saintjohn.ca or drop by the office at 171 Adelaide Street.
Marigolds by Barry Ogden
This is our 12th year; we have won six awards Japan, Germany, Great Britain, U.S., and two national awards in Canada. We have planted 1.8 million Marigolds, about 150 thousand each year. We plant at 51 sites by 32 schools in Greater Saint John (Saint John, Quispamsis, Rothesay, Hampton, Saint Martins, and Grand Youth from Centennial School plant Bay- Westfield). We raise Marigolds the money in January and February, start growing at the first of March, plant at the end of May and they are there for all to enjoy until November. The kids do poetry, math, science, and writing all around their marigolds (this is called cross-curriculum). They also use all styles of learning: tactile, visual, and audio. The Marigold Project builds confidence, community spirit, and pride. We are almost at one full generation of planting. I want to develop a greater sense of pride and involvement. The Marigold project is inclusive as all children participate.
Youth from Centennial School plant Marigolds
COMMUNITY NOTICES ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
Page 9
St. George’s Church Upcoming Events 100 Watson Street
Marthas & Marys are having a SPRING DESSERT and AUCTION on April 23rd, 2009. Dessert will be served at 6:30pm along with a Silent Auction that will begin at 7pm. Tickets are available by calling Arlene Trask at 738-2856. Basement Players from Norton will be presenting "Murders In the Heir" at St George's Anglican Church on Saturday, April 25th at 7pm. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under and are available from Lynn Adams at 635-8474. All monies will be shared between St George's and new Pallative Care Unit in Sussex. St. Georges Church Handbell Choir are having a salmon TAKE OUT ONLY Dinner, on May 30th from 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm. $10.00 for tickets call Arlene at 738-2856.
SEACAT Meeting South End Area Community Action Team will be holding a meeting on Wednesday, April 29th at 6 pm at Centenary Queen Square Church. The meetings take place the third Wednesday of the month. If you would like to become involved with your community you are welcome to attend. Bring a friend. We normally begin our meetings by having a potluck which we call Soup at 6. Our discussions start at 6:45.
South End Grocery Store Meeting Would you like to have a Grocery Store in your Community? Come to the meeting on Wednesday, April 22nd at 7 pm in the mini theatre at the South End Community Center. Come one, come all and share your ideas of what you want in your community. It is a necessity for our growth and quality of life in the South End!
The Key to Well Being THE KEY TO WELL BEING is a personal growth journey for women. This FREE six week course is designed to help women enhance selfesteem, indentify barriers to change, and embrace a more can-do attitude. When: May 18 - June 26 Time: Monday-Friday, 1:00pm - 4:00pm Where: Community Health Centre, 116 Coburg Street Childcare and transportation costs are available for those who qualify. For more information: call Susan McKeon at 672-7451. Register soon, seats are limited to 15.
People make communities Avide Developments is proud to be participating in the revitalization of Crescent Valley
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Three Programs to Connect You to Employment Making it Work is a new program from the Saint John Learning Exchange, providing short term training for twelve weeks in essential skills, leading to a specific job at the end. The first program began on March 30th with four employers and eight participants. The next program will start in September. Contact the Learning Exchange for more information at 648-0202. Catching the Wave to Work will help connect you to employers and find out what employers are looking for, how to get ready and what government and community resources can help you. Join us on Monday, May 25 from 9 am to 1 pm at St. Andrew and St. David Church. Call Brenda Murphy at 642-9033 to register or for more information. Job Bus involves touring businesses to find out what they are looking for and what you need to work with them. We are planning for the second Job Bus to take place at the beginning of June. Call Cathy at 832-5624 for more information. Spaces are limited.
SJ Volunteer Centre Research Project The Saint John Volunteer Centre is embarking on an exciting project over the next twelve months. A task force of the Saint John Volunteer Centre is evaluating the training and development needs of member agency Boards of Directors, non-profit organization in the greater Saint John area. In March (2009), a survey will be sent to all member agency Boards. The survey will be anonymous. We are expecting that the results of this survey will help the Saint John Volunteer Centre offer even better, more focused, Board training opportunities. This research project will provide a comprehensive review of what governance skills are required by the Boards of member agencies of Saint John Volunteer Centre, which will make recommendations about how the Volunteer Centre can best support non-profit Boards in developing governance skills. For more information contact: Eileen McLaughlin, Executive Director at (506) 658-1555 or via email at volunteer.sj@nb.aibn.com.
Breaking Free by Judy Eatmon
The 2nd BREAKING FREE class graduated on March 26th. I am proud to say that Arlene Augustine, Krista Constantine, Barb Dickison, Tara Guitard, Sheila Innis, Linda Kierstead, Irene Lyon, Anne McLeod, Julie Nice, Nancy Savoie, Mary Jane Tupper, and Janet Whittaker have successfully completed the 12 Photo Courtesy of PRUDE Inc. week program. The women have learned about many topics, including increaseing your self esteem, conflict resolution, how to cope with stress and changes, anger management, financial management, how to communicate better, and increase computer knowledge (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and finally how to develop a plan about where they are headed next in their future.
w w w . a v i d e . c a
Our next group begins on April 20th. Talk to one of the graduates and make an appointment today. CALL Judy Eatmon at P.R.U.D.E. Inc. 634-3088.
OUR CREATIVE COMMUNITY ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
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A Poem by Gerry Leavitt
This is a number that starts you know It is there before we all go for this run; We all can take it because we are all in it together When we challenge it, we all show and prove it is fun. From time to time, we all start to do our different things We are off to show each other what we can do; So, we keep on trying and improving each day Until we all get finished and our time is through. But each day keeps going, we are not through yet As this run is still going for all of us. Different things we all communicate our time for Up the ladder, each of our ages keep going with no fuss Each morning, noon and night adds up for twenty four hours When we all arise, we do see that it is us Because this is another day, but we keep going To help each other and show that we trust. Now we are on the last corner and still running Because we all keep going we will show up for the time; Not yet because we are still helping each other We will make it, don’t worry, we will all be fine. So, now we are still going as we see the red ribbon We all helped each other because we want some fun; Now we all cross the line together at his building here That is us - here - we all finished at the right O.N.E. (Old North End)
Easter Trivia by Linda Scott
1. The most expensive jewelled eggs in the world today were made by whom? 2. What colour eggs doesn’t “Sam I Am” like in the popular Dr. Seuss book? 3. In the song “Here comes Peter Cottontail” he’s got coloured eggs for whom? 4.If you do what to an egg, it is said to protect you from lightning, hail and beehives? 5.How long will a boiled egg keep in the refrigerator? 6.What is a female rabbit called? 7.Who starred with Judy Garland in “Easter Parade”? 8.Rabbits with long floppy ears can’t hear as well as those with ears upright. True or False? 9.Highly intricate decorated Easter eggs done with wax and dye are from what culture? 10. Eggs contain nearly every nutrient known to be essential to humans. True or False? 11. What are baby rabbits called? 12. Marshmallow candies that look like baby chicks are called what? 13. Rabbits with big long ears going up are called what kind of rabbits? 14. Oster Hass is German for what? 15. What does the word “Lent” mean? See page 12 for answers.
A Poem by Wendy DeMerchant
The dawn has sprung, Morn is fast. Here are your rain boots and rubber hats. Grab your umbrella. Slosh about. For here comes spring, Photo Courtesy of Juanita Black May you not need a boat! Wendy DeMerchant - artist, author, and a Power Up graduate
Welcome Spring by Rosie Young and Jennifer Edison
Gone are the cold chilly days, Of winter passing in its ways. Chipping at the ice with the heels of our boots, Let’s throw away the mitts, the scarves, and toques. The sun is shining. The spring is on its way. Bring out the sneakers the ball and bats. The trees are in blossom and the birds are singing Hurray it’s spring a new life beginning!
COMMUNITY PARTNERS ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
Page 11
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Garden Buds....More than Mowing!
Moving towards Vibrant Communities
by Patricia Allan-Clark and Andrew Cosman
by Wendy MacDermott
The Saint John winter brought icy temperatures, freezing rain, and one pile of snow. The Garden Buds, a local business run for - and by – people living with mental illness, welcomed each of these stormy conditions. The more snow the better! The lawn care business also provides a snow removal service in their off season.
Vibrant Communities Saint John and its partners are continuing the momentum to strengthen neighbourhoods and reduce poverty: A wellattended second dialogue session to discuss poverty in New Brunswick was held at the Somerset Community Center on March 23rd and Fusion hosted a Party with a Purpose with special guest Gerry Pond, the business community co-chair of the poverty reduction strategy.
The Garden Buds business is much more than simply clearing ice and shoveling snow. The “Buds” have an opportunity to socialize, develop life skills, build self-confidence, and work in a supportive environment. In addition, employees receive specialized training including; team work, goal setting, problem solving, general safety, and basic financial management. “The thing I like about the ‘garden buddies’ is that you can show a customer how to do a professional job, and get it done on time! When you learn, and do the job right it makes everybody happy! I like to meet new people and get good exercise too!” - Garden Buds Employee With spring having arrived, the Garden Buds will soon be focusing on providing lawn and garden care service for their non-profit, public sector and private customers. If you are interested in supporting or acquiring the teams' services – please contact Patricia Allan-Clark (643-7643) or Andrew Cosman (650-1132).
Neighbourhood Planning, what is actually happening?! Each of the five priority neighbourhoods is making plans for what they want to tackle in 2009. Crescent Valley and the Old North End were the first out of the gates. Crescent Valley had over 50 people participate in sessions to celebrate successes and identify areas for improvement. Many suggestions for improving housing, getting more residents involved, safety, recreation, streets and lights were discussed. ONE Change hosted a Chinese dinner in late February at the NECC. See page 2 for the full story. The South End will bring together residents and PULSE, SEACAT, South Central Citizen’s Council, and the South End Sustainable Community groups to develop their plan. The Village Neighbourhood will host an event to hear from residents later this spring and the Lower West Side is beginning to plan too. As we work to help strengthen neighbourhoods, we see how unique each one is and how many common issues are shared. Recently, a group of representatives from the five neighbourhoods met to discuss their thoughts about community policing. Next, the group will meet with community police officers to discuss ways to keep building on the benefits of community and police working together. For more information, or with ideas about other issues that are common across neighbourhoods, please contact Wendy at wendy.vibrantsj@nb.aibn. com or 693-0904.
Strong Woman Campaign 2009: A Success!! by Sheri Coburn, Chair, DVCAG and Ann Barrett
This year, the Domestic Violence Community Action Group & Urban Core Support Network, together with the Canadian Federation of University Women - Saint John marked International Women’s Day by holding their second annual Strong Woman campaign. The campaign called for community members to nominate those women they identify as being influential and inspirational in contributing to the betterment of their families, their workplaces and their communities. In honour of International Women's Day, a brunch was held on March 7th at the Fort Howe Hotel with the theme for this year: “Strong Leadership + Strong Women + Strong World = Equality”. Close to thirty local women were nominated & honoured for their efforts in making our community a safer and stronger place. Many of those nominated were women working with and/or living in priority neighbourhoods. A continuous PowerPoint presentation that included the nomination submissions was displayed. The echoing of applause from the onlookers made the presentations truly memorable. Awarded certificates were: Juanita Black, June Breau-Nason, Andrea Card, Katherine Coughlan, Shelley Gautreau, Sue Gogan, Teresa Goldsmith, Dr. Nancy Grant, Lyn King, Jenn McCumber, Jessica McGraw, Lisa Morris, Dawn Murphy, Sister Margaret Rose Nickerson, Murielle Provost, Nancy Savoie, Esther Shanks, Sarah Woollven, and "The Dodging Diabetes Team" of Barb Dickenson, Beth McCullough, Tammy Garnett, Elaine Orser, Rita Tyler, Lyn King, Judy Savoie, Bonnie Guthrie, and Jeanette Garnett.
Photo Courtesy of Lois French Recepients of Strong Women Campaign Awards
The guest speaker for this event was Sgt. Tanya LeBlanc from the S.J. Police Force. Sgt. LeBlanc related her personal experiences in becoming & being a woman police officer. Diana Alexander, N.B. Status of Women, gave us the history of the strides women have made and what still needs to be done to ensure the equality of women. Gail Taylor, Pay Equity, urged us all to write to our MPs & MLAs about our concerns on this issue. CFUW-SJ President, Pat Murray, gave a brief background of CFUW. The approximately ninety people in attendance were able to review & take information from several of the groups’ display tables. Congratulations to all the award recipients and thank you for your devotion to your community!
COMMUNITY PARTNERS ISSUE 4, APRIL 2009
Page 12
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Meet Alma Beck
Fire Safety Tips for Spring
My partner and I moved here last August, from Little Rock, Arkansas, and I know first-hand some of the challenges of living on a limited income. When my 4 sons (now ages 23 to 29) were young, we lived below the poverty line with the help of social assistance. In my varied careers, I’ve been a stay-at-home mom, a teacher, and an Anglican priest. My training includes a Master of Social Work degree, with an emphasis on Community Development.
1. Change smoke alarm batteries and clean the smoke alarms with the soft brush from your vacuum cleaner. 2. Ensures all windows and doors are working as they could stick after being closed for a long winter and it might take two or three tries to get them working properly. 3. Check electrical breakers. Electrical breakers are a mechanical device and have to be worked to ensure they will work when required. Turn off your main breaker and all small ones one at a time and turn them back on the same way. 4. Ensure back and front stairwells are free and clear of all obstructions. These are your safe way out in case of fire. 5. Clean up around the outside of your building. This is grass fire season and fire doesn't need any help with fuel! This could stop a grass fire from spreading to your building. Any questions please feel free to call Lt. Neil MacKenny at 658-2962
I’ve found that I listen better if my hands are busy, so you may see me knitting my way through a meeting, making toques to give to those who need them. As neighbourhood community developer, my job is to assist residents in creating the kind of neighbourhood they dream of. There is no shortage of good ideas; all people need is a way to make those ideas become reality. To that end, I strive to connect folks to: • others who share their interest • information they need • groups who can help them • government and private businesses who can assist
Tog ther we will Together build b ild a stronger il community. For all you do, thank you.
Ensemble, nous construirons une collectivité plus forte.
I support the neighbourhood assistants, and help the five priority neighbourhoods work together so they can share from each other’s experiences and wisdom.
Merci de tout ce que vous faites.
My vision is to see every resident in our neighbourhoods realizing their power to effect change. There are new initiatives, at all levels of government and within the business community, to reduce poverty in New Brunswick. I believe the folks who have been living with poverty are the true experts. They know the challenges, and they have some very creative solutions. All they need is to find their voices and discover their ability to achieve their dreams. As Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Neighbourhood Assistants Neighbourhood Community Developer Alma Back, 608-0419 alma.vibrantsj@nb.aibn.com Crescent Valley Crescent Valley Nancy Savoie, 977-0255/693-8513 Felicia Garnett, 693-8513 crescentvalleyna1@gmail.com crescentvalleyna2@gmail.com OLD North End Waterloo-Village Michelle Bainbridge, 635-2035 Nikki Vautour, 639-5063 neighborhoodassistant@gmail.com n_vautour_village@hotmail.com Lower West Side Lower South End Lisa Murphy, 658-2920 Jennifer Edison, 653-0672 neighbourhood.asst.lws@gmail.com seacats@live.ca
Mayor Ivan I Co Court rt and Councillors Coun Maire Ivan Court et Conseillers
Easter Trivia Answers by Linda Scott
1. Carl Faberge 2. Green Eggs (and Ham) 3. He’s got coloured eggs for SUE. 4. Bury it in your garden or yard. 5. They will store one week. Always keep in refrigerator. 6. Doe 7. Fred Astaire 8. True 9. Ukrainian 10. True 11. Kits 12. Peeps 13. Jack Rabbits 14. Easter Bunny 15. Lengthening of days.
Newspaper Volunteer Committee OLD North End: Tara Parlee, Gerry Leavitt, Lower South End: Jennifer Edison, Waterloo-Village: Nikki Vatour, Crescent Valley: Elaine Orser, Richard Northorp, and Lower West Side: Lisa Murphy Other Partners: Human Development: Belinda Allen, Atlantic Health Science Corporation: Computer Access Centre Staff, Proof Readers: Linda Boyle, Mary Collier-Fleet, Rona Howald, Interested Community Members: Mark Leger, Ann Barrett, and Vibrant Communities: Wendy MacDermott, Juanita Black