around the block issue 23

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Page 1 Candy Mateo By Staff of Saint John Learning Exchange Candy Mateo, a learner at the Saint John Learning Exchange, is an inspirational example of how showing up every day, working hard with a purpose and never giving up will result in success. She had passed four out of five GED exams, but the math exam seemed nearly un- beatable. Each time she returned to try again she’d say, “I’m going to work hard until I get this math.” And get it, she did! Our pride and the joy we feel with her are almost over-whelming because we know how hard she worked. We watched her shake off the disappointment, gather herself together and hit those math books again with a vengeance. Her determination and ability to stick to the task are an inspiration to us all. Meeting The Prince And Camilla Hazen White-St. Francis Principal, Jennifer Carhart was presented with the Diamond Jubilee Medal. Pictured above: Jennifer Carhart, Camilla, Dutchess of Cornwall, and HRH Prince Charles (Photo Courtesy of Erin Glennon) By Alyssa Smith, age 12, HWSF On May 21, at the phenomenal Hazen White-St. Francis, we had some amazing royal guests. Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, Camilla visited my school for the celebration of Victoria Day and the 60th Diamond Jubilee awards. Our school and community had a blast! Some of the things we did that day were bouncy castles, tinsel for hair, and face painting. We had hot dogs, cupcakes, cotton candy, pop, cake, hamburgers and a fortune teller. The Prince and Camilla came out of a royal car, with the assistance of 20 security guards, and then they went around and shook a lot of people’s hands! I got to shake his hand; I think it was pretty neat. Then they went inside to eat some marvelous food cooked by the cooking club. They really enjoyed it! Then they came back out again and awarded Jennifer Carhart (princi- pal of HWSF) with the Diamond Jubilee award of 2012! Mrs. Carhart was so overwhelmed with excitement she started to cry. It was a very fabulous afternoon at HWSF! It was the best day you could ever ask for! The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development is proud to sponsor this month’s edi- tion of Around the Block. This paper provides important information about services in Saint John communities. I’d like to thank Around the Block and the hard- working people who put it together each month. Our government is committed to the education and healthy devel- opment of all children. That is why our government continues to invest in projects that improve our children’s learning and development. We want to make sure every child has the opportu- nity to learn and develop in a positive environment in both our schools and in our day cares. Parents can take advantage of many services right here in Saint John that will help their children reach their full potential – programs that encourage summer reading, healthy and active living, early learning, and much more. I encourage all parents to find out more about what services and programs are available in their communities to help them and their children. You can find out more about what the Department of Educa- tion and Early Childhood offers for your family on our website at www. gnb.ca/education. Message From The Minister: Jody Carr Hon. Jody Carr Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development Coordinators Comments By Juanita Black, Coordinator, Around The Block, Phone: 647-4850. Email: [email protected] Issue 23 . June 2012 [email protected]Hello readers of Around The Block, welcome to our “Education and Learning” issue. We are happy to partner with the Department of Education and Early Learning to bring you this issue that focuses on learning for all ages. We bring you stories that range from our young- est learners at the Early Learning Centre to a mobile library and adult learners at the Saint John Learning Exchange. Our education is never over, even after graduation. As our middle schools students hold their grad ceremonies and dances and move on to high school and as our high school students celebrate their graduation and either join the work force or continue their educa- tion, we, as parents, family members or grandparents proudly share the accomplishments of our children. You should never underestimate how important your education is. To yourself, your family or the community where you live. Finally, we must take a minute to offer our thanks to the many teachers who guided us over the years.

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Page 1: Around the Block Issue 23

Page 1

Candy Mateo

By Staff of Saint John Learning ExchangeCandy Mateo, a learner at the Saint John Learning Exchange, is an inspirational example of how showing up every day, working hard with a purpose and never giving up will result in success. She had passed four out of five GED exams, but the math exam seemed nearly un-beatable. Each time she returned to try again she’d say, “I’m going to work hard until I get this math.” And get it, she did! Our pride and the joy we feel with her are almost over-whelming because we know how hard she worked. We watched her shake off the disappointment, gather herself together and hit those math books again with a vengeance. Her determination and ability to stick to the task are an inspiration to us all.

Meeting The Prince And Camilla

Hazen White-St. Francis Principal, Jennifer Carhart was presented with the Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Pictured above: Jennifer Carhart, Camilla, Dutchess of Cornwall, and HRH Prince Charles

(Photo Courtesy of Erin Glennon)

By Alyssa Smith, age 12, HWSFOn May 21, at the phenomenal Hazen White-St. Francis, we had some amazing royal guests. Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, Camilla visited my school for the celebration of Victoria Day and the 60th Diamond Jubilee awards.

Our school and community had a blast! Some of the things we did that day were bouncy castles, tinsel for hair, and face painting. We had hot dogs, cupcakes, cotton candy, pop, cake, hamburgers and a fortune teller.

The Prince and Camilla came out of a royal car, with the assistance of 20 security guards, and then they went around and shook a lot of people’s hands! I got to shake his hand; I think it was pretty neat. Then they went inside to eat some marvelous food cooked by the cooking club. They really enjoyed it!

Then they came back out again and awarded Jennifer Carhart (princi-pal of HWSF) with the Diamond Jubilee award of 2012! Mrs. Carhart was so overwhelmed with excitement she started to cry. It was a very fabulous afternoon at HWSF! It was the best day you could ever ask for!

The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development is proud to sponsor this month’s edi-tion of Around the Block. This paper provides important information about services in Saint John communities. I’d like to thank Around the Block and the hard-working people who put it together each month. Our government is committed to the education and healthy devel-opment of all children.

That is why our government continues to invest in projects that improve our children’s learning and development. We want to make sure every child has the opportu-nity to learn and develop in a positive environment in both our schools and in our day cares. Parents can take advantage of many services right here in Saint John that will help their children reach their full potential – programs that encourage summer reading, healthy and active living, early learning, and much more.

I encourage all parents to find out more about what services and programs are available in their communities to help them and their children. You can find out more about what the Department of Educa-tion and Early Childhood offers for your family on our website at www.gnb.ca/education.

Message From The Minister: Jody Carr

Hon. Jody Carr Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development

Coordinators CommentsBy Juanita Black, Coordinator, Around The Block, Phone: 647-4850. Email: [email protected]

Issue 23 . June 2012 • [email protected]

Hello readers of Around The Block, welcome to our “Education and Learning” issue. We are happy to partner with the Department of Education and Early Learning to bring you this issue that focuses on learning for all ages. We bring you stories that range from our young-est learners at the Early Learning Centre to a mobile library and adult learners at the Saint John Learning Exchange. Our education is never over, even after graduation.

As our middle schools students hold their grad ceremonies and dances and move on to high school and as our high school students celebrate their graduation and either join the work force or continue their educa-tion, we, as parents, family members or grandparents proudly share the accomplishments of our children.

You should never underestimate how important your education is. To yourself, your family or the community where you live. Finally, we must take a minute to offer our thanks to the many teachers who guided us over the years.

Page 2: Around the Block Issue 23

Page 2

By Wendy Barron-BelmoreThe North End has been wait-ing anxiously for the opening of their new pizzeria, so it is with great pleasure we intro-duce Terry Chadda the owner of Yummy Pizza which is located on Main Street North. Terry is a retired teacher from Princess Elizabeth School where he taught for 36 years. When asked why he chose this location for his restaurant Terry responded with passion that the North End was good to him and he wanted to give back to the community. Grampy’s Yummy Pizza employs 8 full time persons and 4 part time employees. The face of the building has been redone and looks very inviting. We would like to thank Terry and his crew for com-ing to the North End and we wish them the best of luck.

My name is John MacKenzie and I will represent Ward 2 on Saint John Com-mon Council for the period June 2012 to May 2016.

I was born and raised in Saint John. I grew up on the West Side, Glen Falls, South End, and have spent the past 26 years living in Portland Place with my wife Catherine. Together we have raised our three children here: Patricia, Mi-chael, and Christine.Over the past 17 years I have been involved in the education system, sitting on the Provincial Board of Education as Saint John’s representative as well as being a member of multiple Par-ent School Support Committees. I have been a member of the District 8 Education Council (previously the District Parent Advisory Commit-tee), serving for many years as chairperson.

In my 36 years with Canada Post, I’ve worked in both union and now management positions. I look forward to working to make Saint John a better place to raise our children and grandchildren.

Feel free to get in touch with me by e-mail [email protected] or phone 977- 3849.

NorthNeighbourhood Contact

Wendy Barron-Belmore Phone: 635-2035

E-mail: [email protected]

Hon. Trevor A. HolderMLA Saint John-Portland

Constituency Office 229 Churchill Boulevard

Telephone: (506) 657-2335Email: [email protected]

By Carla BigneyOn May 26, 2012, thirty volunteers met at the North End Community Centre in order to make a difference. These volunteers picked up numerous bags of garbage, household furniture, old car tires, construc-tion materials, etc.

Every year ONE Change holds their neighbourhood Clean-Up, and we always seem to be cleaning up the same vacant lots. One little girl asked, “Why didn’t the garbage man pick up this garbage bag?” After explaining to the little girl the reasons why the garbage was thrown here - just so they could dispose of their garbage easily, she then replied, “Well, that person should have put their garbage bag out by the curb so that garbage man could see it and take it away!”

Follow the advice of a young girl and take pride in your community. Please do not litter; put litter in its rightful place in a garbage bag so that the garbage man can take it away!

ONE Change Clean Up

Community residents help out with the ONE Change clean upPhotos courtesy of Jerry Leavitt

ONE Change Youth Inclusion ProgramBy James CosmanYIP encourages youth to be involved in their community while teaching the importance of participation and giving back.

This summer, YIP will be offer-ing ONE Teen Summer Take over once again. Youth will receive many learning op-portunities such as: garden-ing, clean-ups, and graffiti removal; all while giving back to their community. Fun reward days will be built in to acknowledge those who participate!

If you know a youth between the ages of 11-17 who wants to have fun while making a difference this summer, call the YIP office at 657-2408.

YIP Youth scooping mulchPhotos courtesy of Jeremy McAuley

Learning ONE Day At A TimeBy Sarah HillEvery day of my life I think to myself: I’m so lucky and grateful to be where I am today. My life could be a lot worse and I’m just thankful that I’m surrounded by an amazing group of people. Whether it’s the ONE family or my own family - every day I learn from both of them. They help guide me in the right direction. All you have to do is apply yourself and you will get somewhere in life. There are people around you that care about your education. No one ever wants to see a teenager struggle. Just take life one step at a time; life is just like a roller coaster to heaven. As long as you have good people surrounding you and you apply yourself to school, you are one step ahead of being a better person. Giving up is not an option.

Grampy’s Yummy Pizza

Ward 2 Councillor John MacKenzie

ONE Community Police Officer: Tony Arsenault

Pictured to the right: Officer Arsenault preparing for a bike patrol

of the Old North End

Page 3: Around the Block Issue 23

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By Billy WhiteheadThis was my first year volunteering for the Hockey for Everyone pro-gram. I had lots of fun. I was able to meet new people and also help out the little kids who have never played before. Hockey for Every-one is a free program that kids can go to up to the age of 13, and then are eligible to volunteer. It doesn’t cost anything. Transportation is provided, as well as the gear, and I understand hockey gear is not cheap. So, when you join you have nothing to lose. I think it’s a great opportunity. We played once a week for two hours. I think that more people should go! This is not an opportunity to pass you by.

I moved to Saint John in 1984 with my husband and three month old son. In 1985 we purchased our home in the uptown and we still live there today. Over the next few years we had three more children who all attended St. John the Baptist – King Edward School and that is when I began my volunteer career. I started in the local schools then moved on to the District Education Council. When the children were finished at public school I moved to boards and commissions within the city. Now that the children are all young adults, city council seemed like the logical next step. I feel I can make a meaningful contribution to Saint John. I very much enjoy living in the city and I have successfully raised four children here. I am proud to represent Ward 3.

My favorite quote is "Education is your passport to the future" -Malcolm [email protected] 977-3853

South Neighbourhood Contact

Mary LeSage Phone: 632-6807

E-mail: [email protected]

SECC Reading ChallengeBy Stephanie BrandonThis year’s Reading Chal-lenge at the South End Com-munity Centre was another success with the children. The children read a total of almost 2000 books and were able to surpass their book total from the previous year. Elias Mason, age 9, read a total of 105 books. Elias said he really enjoyed reading the books on science and nature, and his favorite book of all was the chapter book “Sunset of the Saber-tooth”. Ha Vu, age 8, read a total of 75 books and really enjoys the variety of books in the library. Cameron Dicks, age 6, read a total of 109 books and his favorite book was ‘Trick or Treat’. The kids adore the library and are hoping for new books to be added in the future!

Photo:From left to right, are Cameron Dicks, Ha Vu, and Elias Mason.

Photo Courtesy of Stephanie Brandon

As The Garden GrowsBy Lisa Morris As you all know, raising children is expensive and having healthy meals can be a challenge, so this year I decided to see how I can change this. First I started with the food purchasing club which once a month gives me two bags of fresh fruit and veggies. Yummy, although I may have tried some of the veg-gies before it gives me and the kids an opportunity to try new things and look for new recipes. Next I started a veggie garden down at Rainbow Park. I'm not sure how green my thumbs are but my little helper and I have a great time digging in the dirt and tend to make many new friends who have a passion for farming. We are looking forward to be able to pick some fresh beans and carrots for the supper table that will come from our own hard work. Thank you PULSE for giving me and my family this great learning opportunity.

Photo:Trevlin planting in the south garden

(Photo by Lisa Morris)

Ward 3 Councillor: Donna Reardon

Volunteering For Hockey For Everyone

Photo: left to right: Bailey White-head, Billy Whitehead, Madison

Haley

Comings And Goings of P.U.L.S.E. IncBy Mary LeSageSchool is out, summer is here! That means one thing! The splash pad is open for another year!

Don't forget our VON Clinics are still offered through the summer months. Third Tue of every month from 1- 4 pm.

Our South End Community Garden has doubled in size! We are ex-cited about this expansion as it has brought in some brand NEW gardeners! 'LIKE' us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ PULSE1INC. We are always looking for input on issues related to the South End. Please call 632-6807 or email [email protected].

Queens Square Farmers MarketSummer ScheduleJuly 15th, will be the 2nd market of the year and should be a good one!

Lots of veggies will be coming out of the ground by then, and we'll be in middle of the summer, so lots of good weather and fun (we're hoping!).

Mark your calendars for Aug 19, Sept 16 and the final one Oct 7.

Rain dates will be one week later! Like us on Facebook for further in-formation or https://www.facebook.com/QueenSquareFarmersMarket

MP/député - Saint JohnMP/député - Saint JohnMP/député - Saint JohnRodney WestonRodney Weston

T 506 657-2500 email: [email protected] King Street, Saint John, NB

Rodney WestonRodney WestonRodney WestonRodney WestonRodney WestonRodney WestonRodney WestonRodney WestonRodney WestonMP/député - Saint John

Page 4: Around the Block Issue 23

Page 4

The City of Saint John recently held a contest to name a short street in Crescent Valley that connects MacLaren Blvd to Samuel Davis Drive. In partnership with all com-munity groups and our community school in Crescent Valley, notices were sent home and put in the monthly community newsletter.Over 100 entries were received and the winning name selected was submitted by Katawna Totten; “Itty Bitty Way.” Katawna attended a Common Council meeting on April 23 and received a gift bag from the Mayor.

Crescent ValleyNeighbourhood Contact

Anne Driscoll: [email protected]

Itty Bitty Way

Contest Winner Katawana Totten with Ivan Court

(Photo courtesy of Al Rouse

RBC Gives

UNBSJ’S Promise Partnership The Backyard Book Club is a one-on-one summer mentoring program where Hazen-White/St. Francis (HWSF) students in grades K to 4 are matched with UNBSJ students. The program’s goal is to prevent summer read-ing loss. It runs on Wednesday evenings throughout the sum-mer on campus.

Campus Discovery Nights is a science-based, hands-on discover program for HWSF middle school students. The goal of the program is to pro-mote an excitement in science. It runs on Tuesday evenings throughout the summer on campus. Transportation is provided for both programs.There will be info ses-sions for parents of registered children. For more information on these programs contact Kathryn Asher (648-5611, [email protected]).

Pictured above: John Johnson with his mentor Colin Rouse

(Photo courtesy of Kathryn Asher)

Crescent Valley Youth

By Shaundell CurranThe youth of Crescent Valley are constantly learning and through these learning opportunities they are educating their community. Over the past couple of months, Teen Vibe has partnered with vari-ous District 8 Middle Schools to provide Girl World Programming. This programming focused on topics and issues that relate to the daily lives of Middle School students.

In April, Teen Vibe had the wonderful opportunity to celebrate their knowledge they received during the Gurl World program with its com-munity – parents, partners, community leaders and friends. Teen Vibe continues to develop positive roles models in its community through education, learning and the positive opportunities

A free clinic for children aged 3½ will be held at the Crescent Valley Resource Centre (CVRC), 130 MacLaren Blvd. on Monday, August 20. The Public Health Nurse will check your child’s vision, speech, nutrition, dental health, growth and development, and make referrals to other health professionals or community partners if needed.

The purpose of this clinic is to support healthy growth and devel-opment of preschool children. This is not a drop-in clinic; make an appointment with Public Health, 658-2454 and mention the date and location of the clinic (August 20 at CVRC) when you make the ap-pointment.

3 1/2 Year Old Clinic In Crescent Valley

Ward 2 Councillor Susan FullertonHello, my name is Susan Fullerton and I have recently been elected to Common Council for Ward 2. Thank you so much to everyone who talked to me at your doors, voted for me, and to my wonderful volunteers.

I grew up on Millidge Avenue, and now live in Millidgeville. I attended M. Gerald Teed, Centennial, Lorne and MNHS schools and Victoria Street Baptist Church in my younger years. I am married and have three children and seven grandchildren and a cat, two dogs and two bunnies.

I will work hard for all residents in Ward 2 and the City of Saint John.

If you would like to get in touch with me, my email is [email protected] or phone 977-3851Thank you.

By Ann BarrettFor the second year in a row the RBC Foundation is supporting HW-SF with grant money. This year the amount is $5000. It helps purchase nutritious snacks for the students’ afterschool programs especially the Mentoring program. Theresa Keane-Gorm-ley, Branch Manager of the Lansdowne RBC branch present-ed the cheque in the Mentoring room to several students and Board members of the Youth Enhancement Program, Inc., a group that helps support all the schools nutrition programs also including the Breakfast & Lunch program, presented the cheque in the Mentoring room.

RBC Presentation $5000 for After school Nutrition Program at HW-SF

Page 5: Around the Block Issue 23

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By Jill RobertsWhat better way to learn, than through the love of reading. Did you know that the Market Place Wellness Centre (Car-leton Community Centre) has a fully stocked book shelf?

Community members are invit-ed to drop off a book that they have read, and take a new one home with them. There are several bestsellers, children’s books and books for teens to choose from. Just stop by the centre Mon. - Fri. 7:30 am -3:30 pm and ask to make an exchange. This is a free program.

What did we learn at the West Side Co-operative preschool this year? We have a thou-sand pictures to tell that story! Here it is in its very condensed version! I have a name and I recognize it! The messier the craft the better the result! Everyone needs to experience warm, kool-aid scented play dough. Anything can be a paint brush.Messy is messy, Taking turns makes things fair. We learned that words feel better than hands. Live animals are nice to touch and hold. Upcy-cling is cool……

Helping our community is fun and important. Everyone looks good in a ball gown. Balls hurt when thrown too hard. Different muscles are used to go up the slide! We can skate! Including everyone makes the world a better place….. West Side Co-op Preschoolers learned a ton while working through PLAY!

West Neighbourhood Contacts

Patti Kelly: [email protected]

Mary Lou Price: [email protected]

Education And Learning After Age 50By Zoomers Fitness LeadersA ceremony was held at the Carleton Community Centre on Monday, June 11, to hon-our several volunteer fitness leaders for receiving their recent senior fitness instruc-tor certifications from the Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging. These volun-teers have each completed four days of intense train-ing, along with dedicating several hours co-facilitating fitness classes in order to reach their goal. They are now preparing to lead “Zoomers on the Go” programs in their own communities. This program combines falls prevention education and fitness classes for those who are age 50 and older. Classes are currently offered at HOPE Centre, East (632-5695), the Carleton Community Centre, West (674-4335) and at Ste-phenson Tower, North (632-553). All classes are free. Please call the numbers listed to register.

Zoomers Presented with Fitness Tote Bags. Photo Left to right- Beth, Shirley,

Mary, Carol, Leona and Sharon

Canada Learning Bond SessionsBy Jill RobertsVibrant Communities, The Carleton Community Centre/Marketplace Wellness Centre, Service Canada and several west side banks part-nered to offer area residents the opportunity to register their children for a Canada Learning Bond on Tue., May 29. The Canada Learning Bond can provide your child with up to $2000.00 in free education money if your child was born on Jan 1, 2004, or later. Family income must be below $42,707 per year. Just ask your local bank for additional information. Special thanks to The Carleton Community Centre, who provided healthy snacks and to Vibrant Communities for organizing and provid-ing door prizes. Thanks to all who participated and do not forget to ask about the Canada Learning Bond!

West Side Co-operative Preschool

Take A Book, Leave A Book

Patty Kelly borrows a book. (Photo Courtesy of Jill Roberts)

St. Patrick’s School Plant MarigoldsMarigold planting began with the stu-dents of St. Patrick’s School where all nine classes had started planting the marigolds in their classrooms.

They tended to them daily and then had the opportunity to plant them at the Carleton Community Centre on June 8.

Photo, Hope Durant, Bailey Langille and Kayla McQuinn

(Photo from Krista Turnbull)

West Side WarriorsBy The WarriorsThese kids called themselves "The West Side Warriors" and recently participated in the Tim Horton's 3 on 3 ball hockey tournament on Long Wharf. The event took place on May 4-6. The money the kids raised was donated to Mind Care. The team member’s tie dyed all of their t-shirts themselves.

Westside Wellness Centre Updates • Specimen Collection: Tue. and Wed. 7:30 am-2:30 pm by appoint-

ment only. Please call, 648-6681, press #3. • Food Bank: Tue. and Fri. 1 - 3 pm. • Art for Seniors: Thu. 1 - 3pm at St. George’s Church Hall. 674-

4335. Monthly Foot Care Clinic: Every 3rd Wed. by appointment. 657-2273. Are you over 50 and want to be more ACTIVE? Join our free classes: Tue. 10 -11 am at the Hope Centre, and Tue. and Fri. 10 -11 am at Carleton Community Centre. Please call 674-4335.

• Food Purchase Club: For more information call West - 674-4335 or St. Joseph’s Community Health Center - 632-5537.

• West Side Community Kitchen Program: Free. 674-4335. • Social Development worker: On site to answer questions Tue.

afternoons 1-3 pm.

Page 6: Around the Block Issue 23

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VillageNeighbourhood Contact

Penni Eisenhauer 343-5382 [email protected]

Waterloo Village Logo Contest WinnersBy Soleil LegerEarlier this year, children from Prince Charles School partici-pated in a logo contest. They drew pictures that represented cleanliness, safety and im-proved communication in the Waterloo Village area. The winners were determined by an online Facebook vote and can be viewed at: www.facebook.com/WaterlooVillageAssocia-tion.

We would like to congratu-late Cianna Logan, Aurora Hattie Belyea and Em-malynn Sheehan for being the winners of the logo contest. Their art submissions will be used to create a new logo that will represent the Waterloo Village area.

Our three winners attended and enjoyed the Amazetorium presented

Pictured:Cianna Logan, Aurora Hat-tie- Beyea, Emmalynn Sheehan

ReflectionsBy Lois MartinAs a child, I grew up on the “east end”, which is now known as Village Waterloo. In the 1950's, most families in that area were low income and living in poverty. Coming from a family of 13, it was a daily chal-lenge to keep food on the table. Our houses were cold; people would insulate their walls with newspaper and heated their homes with coal, oil, or wood stoves. My mother would make quilts out of old army blan-kets. We didn't have the same luxuries as some children - I can recall taking my roller skates apart to make a scooter. I would decorate the scooter with bottle top caps. In the 1950's, the City of Saint John decided this area needed change. They partnered with Central Mortgage and Housing, with the project becoming known as Urban Renewal Saint John. Families started mov-ing out in the 1950's so the project could begin. They built a seniors' high rise, several apartment units, and town houses. Heating was now by furnace and the houses were properly insulated according to safety codes. The neighborhood got a facelift and there was hope.

Village Waterloo has sure grown since I was a child. As they say, “Out with the old; in with the new!”

Lois Martin is a full-time learner in B.E.S.T. (Basic Education Skills and Training) Program at the Saint John Learning Exchange

WV Association and SJ Votes BBQBy Penni EisenhauerOn Election Day, May 14, volunteers from the Water-loo Village Association and Courtney Bay Tenants Asso-ciation hosted a barbeque at the polling station located at the Boys & Girls Club. Lots of hamburgers were passed out to the voters! A special thank you is extended to everyone who helped make the event a success.

Volunteers prepare food for Voters

Prince Edward Square Walking ClubBy Linda ScottThis past winter, the Resi-dents of Prince Edward Square Apartments formed a walking group. Each participant’s mileage was recorded from either walk-ing through the halls of the building or around town.

In total, the group walked 1800 miles over the course of the winter. Using Google maps the mileage was converted to how far across Canada they had travelled. They walked approximately to the Manitoba border.

What a great way to get exercise throughout the winter and have fun. WAY TO GO!

Back row Philip Williston, Jean Whipple, Alma Robichaud, Alice Delong. 2nd row;

Shiley Allaby, Sharon O’Brien, Betty Bourgerois, Pauleine Carew and Linda

Scott Co-ordinator.

Waterloo Village Association Updates

By Penni EisenhauerThe Waterloo Village Association will be meeting at the Coverdale Center for Women (148 Waterloo Street) at a NEW TIME during the summer months (June-Sept). Be-ginning on Wed, June 13, the meet-ings will be held at 12 p.m.

The group continues to work on neighborhood beautification proj-ects. We would like to thank the City of Saint John for the cross-walks painted on Waterloo St. and the installation of new garbage cans throughout the neighbor-hood. The group purchased ad-ditional garbage cans that were installed in front of Prince Charles School; Saint Joseph’s Hospital; King Street East; Pitt St.; and Crown St. The group is looking for partners who would be willing to “adopt” these garbage cans.

If you are interested or looking to become more involved in the neigh-borhood, please contact Penni at [email protected] or 343-5382.

One of the new garbage cans located in Waterloo Village.

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CO-ED Beach Volleyball For TeensThe Y will host co-ed volleyball on the board-walk for teens from June 29- August 24• 8 weeks of league play.• Every Fri night 5 pm – 9 pm.• Ages 14 – 18.• 4 players per team (2 males, 2 females)For more information or to register contact the Saint John Y 693-YMCA (9622)

Sea Belles Chorus Is Number One!By Ann ConnollyAfter forty two years, Sea Belles' Cho-rus can now boast they are the num-ber one ladies a cappella barbershop chorus in Area 1 (Atlantic Canada) of Harmony Inc. In addition, Janet Kidd, chorus director, was presented with the Don Regan Memorial Trophy for the qualifying chorus showing the most improvement in overall score from the previous year. Sea Belles' Chorus will now be repre-senting Area 1 at Harmony, Inc. International Convention and Contest (IC&C) being held in Orlando, Florida in Nov, 2012. Also qualifying for IC&C was Sea Belles' quartet Nova Quattro which includes Marilyn Hickman, Joanne Conrad, Irene Goddard and Linda Oliver, and placed 3rd overall among eight Atlantic quartets.

Coming Soon... Learn and GoNew bus stop, replaced lights, fences around power lines, new playground, new pathway! These are some of the changes residents have brought about in your neigh-bourhoods through Learn & Go.Starting in September, Learn & Go will again be available to residents interested in enhancing or gaining new skills and making changes needed in your neighbourhood. It is a three part program, beginning with dynamic workshops, then working in small groups with mentors on a change project and ending with a meeting with potential partners who can help move the project forward. Urban Core Support Network and Vibrant Communities invite you to join us for Learn & Go. We are looking for residents with ideas that will change or make a difference in your neighbourhoods. An information meeting will be held in late August so watch for next issue of Around the Block. For more information, call Brenda at 642-9033 or Cathy at 832-5624.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Big Book SaleBig Brothers Big Sisters of Saint John is collecting gently used books for their 7th Annual BIG Book Sale. Book collection bins are located at Sobeys: Rothesay, East, North and Grand Bay. They are not accepting books with ANY water or mold damage. They also do not accept magazines, text books or encyclopedias. If you have more than three shopping bags of books to donate, please deliver them to Big Brothers Big Sisters office on Level 3 Brunswick Square.

The Sale will be held from Aug 20 - 25 on the 1st Level in Brunswick Square and will operate on regular mall hours.

The book supply continues to grow each year. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saint John assures you that there are books for all interests!

Thank you for supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saint John! For more information please contact, Deanna Gamble 635-1145

Movies In the Park Schedule

Date Title Start TimeJun 26 Alvin and the Chipmunks -- Chipwrecked 9:30 pmJul 3 Monsters In Paris 9:30 pmJul10 Puss In Boots 9:25 pmJul 17th The Three Stooges 9:20 pmJul 24 Journey 2 The Mysterious Island 9:15 pmJul 31 Wrath of the Titans 9:05 pm

Aug 7 Mirror, Mirror 8:50 pmAug14 The Advetures of Tin Tin 8:45 pmAug21 We Bought a Zoo 8:35 pmAug28 The Hunger Games 8:20 pm

Movies in the Park series is being sponsored by The Tim Horton Pavil-ion Cup Pond Hockey Tournament. Movie goers will be treated to an evening of hot new releases, fresh popped popcorn and drinks. Mov-ies and snacks are free and are open to the public.

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PCS - Monarchs After Hours

At Prince Charles School, learning does not only take place in our wonderful classrooms – Monarchs After Hours – Chess, Zumba, Judo, Sports, Leadership, Guitar, Go Girls, PenPALS, WynReaders, Crafty Kids, Art Curators, Choir, are just some enrichment activities offered from K-8. Chess holds a special place. We have 2 wonderful coaches – Dan Elman and Joe Boyd and their great coaching helped our students qualify and travel to the Provincials in Balmoral in northern NB! Dan Elman, was awarded the PCS Mon-archs Recognition Award – Dan started volunteering with chess at PCS 50 years ago!!! What a commitment to Learning and Education, and the children of PCS!! Thanks to all our school community who contribute to the quality edu-cation our students receive at Prince Charles School.

Photo1.Joe Boyd and PCS District Chess Team 2012Photo 2. Dan Elman, Andrew Loughery (Vice-Principal) and

PCS Provincial Chess Team 2012(Photo Courtesy of PALS)

Glen Falls Community PlaygroundBy Kathy YoungThe old saying goes, it takes a community to raise a child, this is also true of playgrounds…it took a community to raise a playground! Thanks to all of the generous support of the Glen Falls Community students, parents, staff, PALS, and local businesses, as well as writing three successful grant propos-als, we have finally made this dream a reality! The grand opening of the playground is on June 21, at 1 pm when the official name of the playground, submitted by a Kindergarten student at Glen Falls and our permanent plaque thanking our generous sponsors will be unveiled.

Students in the photo are: Alex, Gifty, Dylan, Josh, Alexa, Shaunna,

and Ashley.(Photo Courtest of Kathy Young)

Ridgewood Veterans Visit St. Patrick’sBy Krista TurnbullThe K-Kids of St. Patrick’s School have been going to the Ridgewood Veteran’s Wing for the past two years. We like to visit the Veterans because the K-Kids help other people and so do the Veterans. The K-Kids also go visit the Veterans because they don’t see kids a lot. Some of them have lost everything in the war! The Veterans have also come to our school for an assembly. One of the Veterans, John, played the guitar and they sang for us. They were great!! The Veter-ans also came to our school for lunch today. We had pizza and they brought chocolate chip cookies. After we ate lunch one of the Veterans explained how the Red Cross got started and he also sang a song about it. When he was done we sang a song for them. The K-Kids love going to see the Veterans. They are our special friends!

Career Days At Lorne SchoolBy Denise LongCareer exploration is an important part of educa-tion. In response to this important component of a well-rounded education, Lorne Middle School in cooperation with our PALS City of Saint John, hosted a career fair on Fri, June 8th. Approximately 27 different careers were represented from a wide cross-section of jobs, employers and post-secondary schools. Participants experienced many career options. Over 500 Neighbouring middle schools students attended. Career booths and trades that were at our Career Fair: Lorne’s PALS Partner City of Saint John: Accoun-tant, police, fire fighter, lawyer, naturalist, journalist and engineer. East-ern College/Eastern Trades College: Steel fabrication, massage ther-apy, electrical, personal support worker, welder, pharmacy Tec. From Properties Delta Brunswick: Convention services and housekeeping from Fortis. NBCC: Industrial automotive service. Atlantica Center for the Arts: 3-D animation. Ale House Chef Jesse Vergen was on hand to share opportunities in his respective field.

Fund Raising At Centennial SchoolBy Caitlin Corkum and Taylor, Grade 1In April, Centennial students were very busy raising money for two great causes: Big Broth-ers Big Sisters and the Leuke-mia and Lymphoma Society. As the students learned about these organizations and raised money, they used their persuasive writing skills to encourage others to raise money as well. Here’s why Taylor thinks you should help too.“We think it is really important to give money to the Cancer Society. The money is used for many things. Please help us raise some money. I can tell you how it is used. First, the money goes to scientists so they can make better medicine. Second, the money helps families with gas and food because they have to live away from home if the hospital is far away. Third, the money helps families get wigs for the little ones because the special medicine makes their hair fall out. Fourth, kids can have a chance to get out of the hospital and go to summer camps. They will see new kids and play together. Please help us beat Cancer today! We need money to help!”

(Photo Courtesy of Shona Gowans)

For more inFormation about:

PaLS (PartnerS aSSiSting LocaL SchooLS) and how you and your buSineSS/grouP can become invoLved, PLeaSe contact:

deborah FiSher 650-5116 or SuSan tiPPer 651-8941

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Summer, 2012 United Way Serving Saint John, Kings and Charlotte Counties

What’s inside:

Campaign Excellence Awards Annual Celebration

Page 1

What does $10 per pay accomplish in our community?Page 3

Strategic PlanA Bold New Outlook for Our Region

Page 2

Calendar of EventsDay of Caring, Golf Tourney and more!

Page 4

Vision2020

Honouring Donors and Volunteers Generous local citizens were recently celebrated at the United Way Campaign Excellence Awards, held in the theatre at St. Malachy’s Memorial High School.

Wayne Chamberlain, volunteer Campaign Chairman for 2011, hosted the event and announced that the community had raised $1,310,027.92, the second highest amount raised in the past 17 years.

Way to Go! Awards recognized outstanding achievements in participation and growth of Employee Giving Campaigns, Corporate Support and Community Leadership.

The event celebrated the contributions of Acadia Broadcasting, AdvocisNB, Aviva Canada, Bell Aliant, Bird Construction, BMO Bank of Montreal, Canada Border Services Agency, Canada Revenue Agency, City of Saint John, Costco, Crosby Molasses, Deloitte & Touche, Efficiency NB, Enbridge Gas, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Ernst & Young, ExxonMobil, FacilicorpNB, Hazen Investments, Innovatia, Irving Oil, Irving Paper, John Howard Society, Mariner Partners, National Bank, Newalta, Radian6, RBC Royal Bank, Stewart McKelvey, TD Insurance, University of New Brunswick Saint John, Wyndham Worldwide, Xerox Canada and others.

Education and Learning Important United Way MissionHalf of the 60 examples of United Way investments on page 3 list education and learning services provided by United Way funded agencies.

Whether it’s teaching blindness preven-tion to workers (CNIB), or teaching teens about the dangers of drug abuse (PAS-AGE) or “sexting” (John Howard Society), United Way funded agencies are a class above.

At READ Saint John, adults improve their literacy skills. At the Saint John Boys and

TD Insurance receives trophy.

Girls Club evening youth program, young people learn new skills in a safe, stress-free environment.

Saint John Deaf and Hard of Hearing pro-vides life skills training to adults, American sign language training to preschoolers and parenting classes for deaf and hard of hear-ing adults.

At CNIB, people living with vision loss learn to use a white cane, get technology training to get a job and relearn skills like identifying money and safely pouring tea.

Preschoolers from disadvantaged fami-lies keep up with their peers at South End Day Care and Centenary Queen Square Centre.

Through training and mentors, the Asso-ciation for Community Living teaches in-tellectually/developmentally challenged individuals how to find and keep a job.

To learn more about education services provided by United Way agencies, review the 60 examples on page 3.

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From poverty to possibility

All that kids can be

Healthy people, strong communities.

Vision 2020A new strategic plan to the year 2020

StrategicDirection 5

StrategicDirection 4

StrategicDirection 3

StrategicDirection 2

StrategicDirection 1

Engage and mobilize our communities (dollars, time, knowledge, action)

Strengthen services and build capacity of community

Allocate resources to address the priorities of our communities

Influence public attitude and policy

Demonstrate impact

4 The United Way is a fund-ing organization — and much more. With a goal to raise $2.020 million per year by the year 2020, the United Way will continue to raise more financial resources; act as a connection between the business and non-profit com-munities; and collaborate with other funders in the region.

2 The United Way has relation-ships with over 70 charitable orga-nizations in the region. Working closely with the people who serve on the front lines of this commu-nity, the United Way is able to monitor trends and common challenges across the sector. The United Way strengthens the non-profit community by focussing on outcomes and impact measure-ment, supports resource sharing, and encourages cooperation on community projects.

1 A primary role of the United Way is to gather community, corporate, and individual funds to alleviate suffering and strengthen the commu-nity. In order to make a difference, the United Way strategically directs funds toward the most effective local agencies and programs. In prac-tical terms, this means the United Way evaluates the priorities and opportunities within our com-munity on an ongoing basis, and distributes funds to make sure investments result in com-munity improvements.

5 As a consequence of the United Way’s close relationships with a cross- section of the region’s vitally important non-profit organizations, the United Way can be consulted as an insightful authority on social issues.Though people are familiar with the United Way brand, it isimportant that the public, govern- ment, media and other stakeholders are aware of the United Way’s ongoing achievements and comprehensive expertise.

3 While there are many worth-while projects and organizations, if we are going to make a real differ-ence, the community needs to invest in what works. The United Way helps charitable organizations to better report the impacts of their programs. Going forward, the United Way will fund programs that can demonstrate outcomes. Equally important, the United Way will update donors and the public on what donor dollars are accom-plishing in the community.

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Leader: $38.50/pay+

Everyday Hero: $14/pay+

$1+ per pay

$3+ per pay

$10+ per pay

$20+ per pay

$4+ per pay

$5+ per pay

$9+ per pay

$2+ per pay

� $1/pay provides emergency groceries for a family in crisis or a person in a state of homelessness (JHS)

� $1/pay buys books and teacher’s manual so a tutor can help an adult develop better literacy skills (READ SJ)

� $1/pay provides a program for parents to under-stand childhood stress and give their kids tools to cope (CMHA)

� $1.42/pay purchases new software that helps an adult with low literacy skills to learn the alphabet (READ SJ)

� $1/pay program teaches positive parenting skills to parents of a 7 - 12 year old child (CMHA)

� $1/pay provides answers to parents looking for informa-tion about substance abuse in a time of family crisis (PASAGE)

� $3.00/pay assists a local intellectually/developmentally disabled high school student make the transition to finding a job in our community (ACL)

� $3/pay provides the Understanding Anxiety and Panic Disorder program to someone diagnosed with a disorder. (CMHA)

� $3.20/pay will cover the cost of providing one child with a Big Brother or Big Sister for a month (BBBS)

� $3.36/pay buys bus travel for a youth in poverty to get to and from recreational activities (JHS)

� $3.36/pay buys bus travel for a youth in poverty to get to and from her first job for the first month (JHS)

� $3.50/pay buys a pair of work boots for an impoverished youth in apprenticeship (JHS)

� $10/pay educates a classroom of school children on the dangers of substance abuse and drug addiction (PASAGE)

� $10/pay allows a deaf or hard of hearing preschooler to receive support to learn American sign-language for one month (SJDHH)

� $11.50/pay covers the cost of a program to teach 12 at-risk teenagers the dangers of technology e.g., ’sexting’ (JHS)

� $12/pay will allow a deaf or hard of hearing child/youth to attend summer camp (SJDHH)

� $12.75/pay provides electricity and heat for the South End Day Care for one month

� $13.50/pay provides a rent deposit for a person in a state of homelessness (JHS)

� $20/pay provides one child with 2 nutritional snacks and one full course meal /day at the South End Day Care.

� $20/pay provides a low income individual professional mental health counselling services for anxiety or grief (Family Plus Life Solutions)

� $20/pay covers the cost for the CNIB to deliver a blindness prevention program

� $20/pay provides a family in need with affordable professional counselling (Family Plus Life Solutions)

� $25/pay sponsors a child living in poverty to attend the Centenary Queen Square Center child development centre.

� $25/pay will allow a young Deaf parent to attend parenting classes (SJDHH)

� $26.00/pay helps an intellectually /develop-mentally disabled individual achieve a month of employment. (ACL)

� $28/pay will provide a daily lunch for a child at the Saint John Boys and Girls Club - for a year

� $32/pay covers the cost of a Big Brother Big Sister in-school mentor for one child for 1 mo.

� $38.50/pay provides one hot noon meal /day to a senior or disabled adult at Centenary-Queen Square Care Centre

� $38.50/pay provides one year of physical and emotional safety in the evening youth program, learning new skills at the Saint John Boys and Girls Club

� $40/pay provides technology training so a person with vision loss can find meaningful employment (CNIB)

� $40/pay will help a local person with vision loss to learn to walk safely with a white cane (CNIB)

� $55/pay provides one abused women with shelter in a safe supportive environment (HH)

� $55/pay provides a Deaf and Hard of Hearing child with a mentor (SJDHH)

� $62/pay covers the cost of life skills training for a Deaf adult (SJDHH)

� $14/pay covers fun activities for 7 children waiting for a Big Brother Big Sister match

� $14/pay provides one person with print disabilities access to Braille and audio books at the CNIB library for one year

� $14/pay provides toothbrushes /paste/rinse cups for all the children in day care at Centenary-Queen Square Care Centres for one year

� $14/pay provides a senior with 10 personal or home care visits from a personal care nurse (VON)

� $14.42 will make it possible for one low income child to attend Camp Glenburn and enjoy canoeing, swimming and camping (YMCA)

� $17/pay buys one month of rent for a family in crisis (JHS)

� $4.27/pay provides one month of physical and emotional safety in the evening youth program, learning new skills (SJBGC)

� $4.50/pay provides a mental health education program that helps a woman cope with anger related to trauma (CMHA)

� $4.50/pay provides a mental health education program that helps a woman cope with the stress of separation or divorce (CMHA)

� $4.80/pay provides training for a reading tutor who will teach adults with low literacy skills (READSJ)

� $5.00/pay will allow 3 people to attend an “Adjustment to Vision Loss” group

� $5/pay allows an elderly person to continue to live at home for another month, with home care (VON)

� $5/pay allows a Deaf or Hard of Hearing Senior to attend a social and physical activity group for one month (SJDHH)

� $6.25/pay provides a job coach to help a person with an intellectual/developmental disability learn a new job during the first month of employment. (ACL)

� $8.50/pay provides language support for a deaf or hard of hearing child/youth so the child can participate in Scouts, Guides, Cubs or Brownies for one month (SJDHH)

� $8.83/pay provides counselling for an elementary school child who is experiencing a life altering event like the loss of a family member or divorce. (YMCA)

� $9.00/pay covers the cost for a person who has vision loss to re-learn everyday activities (e.g., identify money, pour tea, use phone) (CNIB)

� $9.23/pay pays a youth in poverty to tutor 20 hours to schoolchildren at risk of failing and dropping out of school (JHS)

� $9.60/pay covers a 1 time emergency payment for a family in crisis behind in their heat/energy bill (JHS)

� $9.62/pay feeds a mother and 2 children during their stay at an emergency shelter for abused women and children (HH)

� $2.00/pay will purchase a white cane for a person who is learning to travel safely and independently (CNIB)

� $2.50/pay buys First Aid/CPR Training or Signallers Certification for a person to overcome barriers to employment (JHS)

� $2.70/pay provides arts and craft supplies for one day care child to develop and promote creativity

� $2.77/pay will cover the cost to recruit and refer one volunteer to work with a local charity or non-profit (SJVC)

� $2.80/pay provides milk to support the healthy growth and development of a child at the South End Day Care

� $2.80/pay provides a child with lunch every school day for a month at the SJ Boys and Girls Club

Here are 60  examples of the impact you have on your local community when you set up your donation through your employer’s United Way Payroll Program.

Figures are determined based on a 26 paycheque per year (biweekly) schedule.

60 ways to act locally the United Way

Your gift will be applied to these local needs and many others too numerous to list here.

Your United Way donation stays in your region.

LEGENDThe United Way provides funding for as many as 80 agencies in this region every year, including:ACL = Association for

Community Living

BBBS = Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saint John

CMHA = Canadian Mental Health Association

CNIB = CNIB

HH = Hestia House

JHS = John Howard Society

PASAGE = PASAGE Saint John

READSJ = READ Saint John

SJBGC = Saint John Boys and Girls Club

SJDHH = Saint John Deaf and Hard of Hearing

SJV = Saint John Volunteer Centre

YMCA = YMCA-YWCA Community Camps

VON = VON (Victoria Order of Nurses)

Yearly Gift of $365+

Yearly Gift of $104+

Yearly Gift of $130 - $230

Yearly Gift of $234+

Yearly Gift of $52+

Yearly Gift of $26+

Yearly Gift of $78+

Yearly Gift of $260 - $330

Yearly Gift of $520+

Yearly Gift of $1,000+

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One Day of Caring® can change lives!

2012 Calendar of Events

Serving Saint John,Kings and CharlotteChange starts here.

61 Union Street, 2nd Floor, Saint John, NB E2L 1A2

For more information or to make a donation:

Phone: (506) 658-1212Fax: (506) 633-7724

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.unitedwaysaintjohn.com

Like us on Facebook at United Way Serving Saint John, Kings and Charlotte

Follow us on Twitter @SJUnitedWay

Organizations that have received funding from United Way:

ACAPAIDS Saint JohnAutism Society (Charlotte County, Saint John)Big Brothers Big SistersBoys Adventure CampBoys and Girls Club (Charlotte County, Grand Manan, Havelock, Saint John)Canadian Mental Health AssociationCentenary-Queen Square Care CentresCharlotte County Alternative TransportationCNIBCommunity Autism CentreCommunity Meals-on-WheelsCoverdale Centre for WomenCrescent Valley Resource CentreDARE Fundy IncDr. VA Snow CentreDragonfly Centre for AutismEarly Intervention Saint JohnEaster SealsElizabeth Fry SocietyFamily Plus / Life Solutions Inc.First Step Housing ProjectFundy Region Transition HouseGentle Path CounsellingGlenview Breakfast ProgramHabitat for HumanityHampton Alliance for Lifelong LearningHammond River Conservation FundHampton Community GardenHestia HouseHomeless Women’s ShelterHOPE Community CentreHospice Greater Saint JohnHospice of CharlotteJohn Howard SocietyKey IndustriesKV Old BoysKV3CLearning Disabilities AssociationLoch Lomond Villa FoundationPASAGE Saint JohnPRO KidsQuality Learning New BrunswickREAD Saint John Ltd.Roots of Empathy (District 8, District 10)Saint John Association for Community LivingSaint John Deaf and Hard of HearingSaint John Human Development CouncilSaint John Volunteer CentreSaint John YMCA-YWCASalvation ArmyScouts CanadaSea Side Lawn BowlingSenior Citizens ServiceSenior’s Resource CentreShimpokai Judo Club After School ProgramSaint John Christmas ExchangeSaint John Learning ExchangeSophia Recovery CentreSouth End Day CareSt. George Food BankSt. John AmbulanceSt. Patrick’s SchoolSussex Vale Transition HouseTRC Resource Centre for YouthVictoria Order of NursesWorker Appeal Services

Summer, 2012 United Way Serving Saint John, Kings and Charlotte Counties

On a Day of Caring, teams of corporate em-ployees, union members and business people volunteer to complete meaningful, hands-on projects that greatly assist local non-profit agencies in our region.

A few weeks ago, on June 8th, the United Way Serving Saint John, Kings and Charlotte Coun-ties held a scheduled Day of Caring. Many local agencies submitted projects and the day was a great success, with many workplace partners signing up to make a difference in the community.

It’s not too late for your workplace to have your own Day of Caring experi-ence. The United Way can customize a Day of Caring to match the specific requests of your workplace with community needs and projects that have been identified in the local community.

A Day of Caring project can include activities like painting, construction, renovations, landscaping, and maintenance and many other imaginative ways to get involved like helping out at events, assisting with program ser-vices, and providing training.

Each Day of Caring project is completed within one day, during regular busi-ness working hours (9:00 a.m.– 5:00 p.m.) and is held at a participating non-profit organization in various communities throughout the region.

For more information, please contact Ron Oldfield at the United Way office by phone at 658-1212 or email [email protected].

Saturdays, June 30 & July 21 ....................... Kingston Market

Friday, August 3 ................................................ Program Grant Funding Deadline

Saturday & Sunday, August 11-12 ............ Marathon by the Sea

Monday, September 3 ................................... Labour Day Picnic Barbecue

Monday, September 10 ................................ United Way Kickoff across NB

September/October (TBD) .......................... Leaders’ Reception

R

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Early Learning CentreAre you a parent looking for extra support with your young child? The Saint John Early Learning Centre in the St. John the Baptist-King Edward School offers support for young children and their parents. There are resources for parents to help support the healthy

development of their children, including workshops and a lending library. A drop-in playgroup is offered at the centre on Monday and Friday morning. The program is for children aged 0 to 2 and their caregiv-ers. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday it’s offered at the Family Resource Centre.The centre has 39 year-round day care spaces for 2 to 5 year olds and an early learn-ing pre-school program for 3 and 4 year olds. Programs are available for children for kinder-garten readiness, eating healthy and getting ac-tive, and language and social skills plus there are programs for moms aged 21 and under. For more information, call 634-4189 or 634-2908.

Glen Falls School Recieves $40,000By Kathy YoungExcitement abounded at Glen Falls School after a teleconference phone call with Indigo and the literacy team who wrote the grant proposal, when it was announced that all of our hard work had paid off and we were successful in receiving this much needed money. The money will be used to purchase engaging books for the school library, infuse new books into the classroom libraries, and purchase e-readers and create an e-book shelf. Some of the funds will also be used to offer programs to families in the area of literacy such as: parent evening sessions, a mother daughter book club, a father son reading club, and early literacy Pre-K sessions. I would encourage all schools to apply for such a grant at http://www.loveofreading.org.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Educate In Non-Traditional Ways

By Deanna GambleBig Brothers Big Sisters of Saint John is very excited to announce that two of our Little Sisters have received CIBC Youthvision Scholarships! These scholarships will cover four years of university tuition, guaran-teed summer internship at the YMCA for six years and free member-ship for both Big and Little Sisters. Little Sisters, Deanna Wilson and Samantha Paulin will be formally awarded their scholarships at a Saint John CIBC branch on June 28. BBBS is very pleased that these girls have been selected for such prestigious awards!

We are also pleased to announce our summer programs that run each week in July. Each of our summer programs focus on life skills and hav-ing fun!

Fun While You Wait; July 9 - 13 and 23 - 27: Ages 6 - 12. Fun activities in the community and life skills!

Kids ‘n’ Kops; July 16 – 20, ages 10 - 12. Focuses on teaching kids to understand and gain a heightened respect for the law, police and com-munity.

Go Girls & Game On; July 30 - Aug 3: Ages 10 - 13. Designed to boost self-esteem and build a positive self-image. These programs provide an avenue to challenge pressures children face in a positively supported environment.

For more information call Big Brothers Big Sisters 635-1145

Getting Dirty to Green PES

By Ken ForrestClouds and rain showers didn’t dampen the enthusiasm at Princess Elizabeth School on Sat. May 5 for a day of community pride and cel-ebration. Staff, parents, students, and friends of PES got their hands dirty and put their shovels to work to make the school a greener place for everyone.

Thanks to the generous assistance of RBC Landsdowne, Cedarcrest Gardens, and the school community, the PES green thumbs planted 17 trees, plants, and shrubs, spread mulch, and created two new flower beds. A more beautiful landscaped green school front is the result for all to enjoy!

A portion of this work is the first step in constructing a beautiful outdoor classroom to reconnect students with nature and the outdoors. “Pan-ther Pride” is alive and well making the North End a great place to live and learn.

Pictured above is the PES Green Team, John Gal-braith, Marc Cyr, Nick Melvin, Donald Walton and

Alyssa Landers(Photo Courtesy of Helen Louise Mitchell)

By Krista TurnbullAt St. Patrick's School we like to thank those who make such a huge difference in the lives of not only our students but our staff as well ... our PALS Partners. This year we were fortunate to grow our PALS partnerships by adding 3 more partners to the St. Pat's family. At Christmas time and the end of the year it has become a tradition for Mrs. Turnbull, our community schools coordinator to take our choir, and this year our new Glee Club, on a little performing road trip. The Glee Club, coached by community volunteer, Anthony Enman hopped on the Kids on the Go bus to visit some partners on two different days in the past few weeks. The children had a great time visiting some of their PALS performing with song and dance. Many of our partners opened their offices to us, allowing the children to showcase their talent. It meant a great deal to us to have the opportunity to visit with these folks and thank them for all they have done this year. Included is a photo visiting our newest partner, Bay Ferries. Next visit will have us visit-ing even more of our partners as we love making the rounds. Special thanks to all PALS and community volunteers for the time and talent they share with our students.

Thanking Those Who Made A Difference

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Make your summer one to remember. Volunteer!

Visit our web-site www.volunteercentresj.com

Join us on FaceBook.com/sjvolunteercentre

Twitter@ SJ_Volunteer

Early Learning Centre, St. John the Baptist - King Edward School , Summer Literacy Camp

By Janet TowersFor the first time this summer the Early Learning Centre will be offering a Litera-cy Camp for children from 4 – 6 years of age. This is a good opportunity for new students to prepare for school or for kin-dergarten children to maintain and build upon the skills they have achieved through-out the school year. Children will have opportunities to participate in games, activities and crafts that will have a focus on literacy, numeracy and fun.

By offering a 10 week fun-filled Literacy Camp for children, the Y is providing an opportunity for children to improve skills that will foster their independence in school. Come and join our family at the Early Learning Centre. Participate in fun story games, story tent activities, or create your own book and learn how to make fun snacks.For further information or to register for our Early Learning Centre Lit-eracy Camp contact Margot Ringuette at 634-4189.

Pictured Above: Margot Ringuette, Director, with Hanley Delong

(Photo Courtesy of Abed Khan)

Learning In The Anglin Drive Library

By Charlene GoodWith the help of Cheryl Brown, Wendell Dryden and with the many wonderful books donated by Romero House the Anglin Drive library has become a source of education, learning and pleasure for residents of all ages.

We have a different theme each month with books, puzzles and activi-ties for children of all ages. We stock a variety of books for educational value and reading pleasure. We rotate books to keep the shelves fresh and even donate some so that they can continue to provide education and enjoyment to others. We even run Story Tent through the summer so young minds can continue to learn while school is out. You can visit the library every Mon and Fri from 3:30 - 5:pm.

Pictured Above: Alyssa, Emma, Selena(Photo Courtesy of Amanda Maxwell)

Local Student Represents NB At National Championships

By Cindy FloydSam Song, a grade 6 student at Millidgeville North School was the Grade 6 Chess Champion in New Brunswick. Last weekend he had the opportunity to represent New Brunswick at the Canadian Chess Challenge at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. He played nine games and came in second place in the Grade 6 competition. Win-ning is no surprise to Sam and his family. Last year he placed first, winning the gold medal at Canadian Chess Challenge.

Sam and his family moved to Canada less than a year and a half ago. They immigrated from China in February of 2011. Sam’s mother, Yang Bai is a student in the language program at the Saint John YMCA. She travels with her son to various tournaments and often participates as referee.

Pictured Above left to right: Lynn Marotte, President of NB Chess and Math Association, Sam Song and

Justin Deveau, NB Chess Captain.

It’s Like Our Second HomeBy Vanessa, Krystal and Margot RinguetteVanessa and Krystal are proud of how much their children have learned at the Early Learning Centre and how far they’ve come them-selves. “Everyone here did the hard work for us” says Vanessa, “so that I could focus on being a mom". The staff give children one-on-one attention so they have no fear coming here. It has become my comfort zone too.

My only regret is that I didn’t know about this place sooner.” Krystal adds that “Whatever the child needs, they bring it here such as help with speech and language. I learned that I am not a bad mom. My son has grown up so much. I bring my children here to learn, not to ‘get rid of them’ for a few hours every day".

The Early Learning Centre is run by the YMCA and located at Saint John the Baptist King Edward School. It serves 39 children aged 2-5.

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Valued SponSorS of around The Block

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For The Girls Club

By Shelly McCready"For The Girls Club" is a one hour 6 week program for girls between the ages of 11 - 14 hosted by the Salvation Army Hope Community Church and Family Services. It utilizes the Dove True Beauty Program material but also includes a spiritual component. In the program we learn about self esteem, body image, media imagery, the power of words and chal-lenges girls are met with today in a society that idolizes supermodels. We have lots of fun as well; manicures, crafts, snacks, games, videos etc. It is a great learning experience as well as a good place to meet new friends.

Shelly McCready is the Community Ministries Coordinator, The Salva-tion Army Saint John, Hope Community Church and Family Services. Phone: 634-1633

Pictured Above: Clarissa Corey, Makenzie Kincade,Ashley O`Brien, Tia Marie Williams, Emma

Gibson, Allyson Richard, Hannah Buck, Emily Wilson(Photo Courtesy of Shelley McCready

Special Mix Of Fun And LearningBy Patricia Allan-ClarkLearning can be fun! In the Family Resource Centre’s A Recipe for Literacy program, parents and children come together once a week for four weeks to “cook up” bubbles, home-made puffy paint, play dough, sidewalk chalk and other craft materials. They explore and experiment together in a relaxing, positive environment, where making a mess is definitely part of the learning process! Colourful visual aids help build basic math and reading skills such as recognizing colours, shapes, simple words and numbers. In June, after trying out the program at its main centre on Wentworth Street, A Recipe for Literacy session was held at Main Street Baptist Church on Main St. in the Old North End. If you are interested looking at hosting this program in your neighbour-hood, please contact the Family Resource Centre.

Boys And Girls Club Math Olympics

Math Olympics Participants(Photo Courtesy of Nicolas Debly)

By Tracy StuartThe Boys and Girls Club of Saint John believes that learning needs to be interactive and exploratory. On Monday May 14th, we celebrated our 3rd Annual Math Olympics Medal Ceremony where all participants received their medals in recognition of their hard work. Math Olympics is the one place where the consensus of the children is that they enjoy math. There is nothing more rewarding then to hear the children say, “Wow, I have never gotten a medal before!” with a shear look of excite-ment and a big smile on their face as they wear their medals proudly.

EYE SPY Nuggets – Celebrating What’s AWESOME!

We would like to share some of the wonderful responses we received during our “I SPY What’s AWESOME’ event held during the week of February 27 to March 2. Responses comefrom our students, school staff, parents and members of the community. It was a great week of recognizing what is AWESOME…a wonderful way to continue to reflect on thepositives and remind us that some of the best things in life are free.With over 3500 entries from our District, we have lots to Celebrate…

• Sun, flowers, summer, flip flops, beach, fun, friends, family. What else could you ask for? Nothing! (Submitted by Grade 8 student)

• I think that the most awesome thing in the world is music because it can bring us all together. Music comes from all different cultures and it helps us find similarities in each other through the happy times and the sad times. (Submitted by Grade 7 student)

• What’s awesome in my world is the coaches and teachers who vol-unteer their time to my activities and sports that I participate in and how they do it with pleasure. (Submitted by Grade 10 student)

• I just found 6 dollars in my bookbag...that's awesome! (Submitted by Grade 9 student)

• My teddy that I've had since I was one second old is awesome! (Submitted by Grade 2 student)

• What’s AWESOME? I think learning new things is awesome and when we have school activities. Je vois ce qui MERVEILLEUX et je pense qu’apprendre des choses nouvelles c’est merveilleux et surtout lorsqu’ on a des activités à l’école. (Submitted by Grade 5 student)

Believe It! See It! Celebrate It!

HAVE A GREAT SUMMER AND REMEMBER TO KEEP ON CELEBRAT-ING!

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celeBraTing 10 YearS of STorYTenTDrop By The Summer Storytent!

The Summer Storytent program is delivered by Quality Learning NB and is supported by the Government of New Brunswick.

It aims to increase reading at all ages and reading levels. All ages are welcome – whether you want to read on your own, be read to, or read to others. The Storytent has shown to increase reading levels in people who participate. Storytents are set up in 8 different rotating locations in Crescent Valley all summer long.

The project makes books more available to children who don’t have the chance to visit their public library often.

To find out exactly where and when the Storytent will be set up this summer, call Cheryl Brown 333- 2601

By Cheryl BrownStephanie and her daughter Lacey borrow from the Bookwagon regu-larly. Stephanie says, "She enjoys reading the books. She enjoys get-ting the books from you. I get her to look out the windows. She gets so excited. She says, 'The Bookwag-on's coming, Mommy!'"

Bookwagon Is Coming!

Storytent/BookwagonIn Crescent Valley

The Storytent is a FREE outdoor reading program for children and families. Sign up for Summer Reading Club, read and borrow books for all ages and have a fruit snack. BOOKWAGON is a door-to-door borrowing program in Crescent Valley. Please call Cheryl at 333-2601 to sign up.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday 10:00 - Noon Howard Court Corner of

MacLaren and Taylor

(by Daly’s)

57 MacLaren (CVCTA)

Playground(Corner of Taylor and MacLaren)

1:30 - 3:30 pm Flemming Court

Backyardbetween

MacLaren and Taylor

CoronationCourt

Corner of Taylor and Patterson

5:00 – 6:30 pm Bookwagon

For more information contact: Cheryl Brown at (506) 333-2601 or [email protected]. Check our website: qlnb.blogspot.com

Saint John Free Public Library Crescent Valley Resource Centre Crescent Valley Community Tenant’s Association

The execuTiVe and Board of The creScenT ValleY communiTY TenanTS

aSSociaTion Would like To congraTulaTe QualiTY learning neW

BrunSWick and “STorYTenT” on Their 10Th anniVerSarY

cherYl and Wendell WiSh To Thank The children and

familieS of creScenT ValleY for 10 YearS of BookS, reading

and fun in The Sun!

Thoughts On The Storytent“I learned to read in the storytent.” Storytent Participant 2007

“Can I take this (Wheels on the Bus) over to my Nanny’s for a minute and show my Nanny I can read this. She’s never seen me read a book like this before.” 6 year old Storytent Participant

"What I think the greatest success this year was that 38 preschoolers had access to the storytent; and there was much talk from caregivers about ‘reading books at home’ to these children." Staff Survey 2012"My kids love it and they patiently wait every week for when you’re here." Parent Survey 2012“I love reading. Reading is my favourite culture. I want to be a read-er…a journalist when I grow up.” Grade two Storytent participant 2009

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East Side Motivators Neighbourhood Clean-up

By Penni EisenhauerThe East Side Motivators hosted their annual Reading Crescent / Rox-bury Drive Neighbourhood Clean Up on Saturday, May 5 from 11am - 2 pm. Lots of children and their parents participated in the clean up and picked up close to 30 bags of garbage. Your neighbourhood looks great! A barbeque was held after the clean up and the hot dogs and fruit were enjoyed by everyone. Thank you to all the volunteers who helped in organizing the event.

The East Side Motivators are looking for resident involvement in at-tending monthly meetings to help work on upcoming projects. The group meets at 14 Reading Crescent on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 4 pm. If you are interested in more information please con-tact Penni at 343-5382 or Alicia at 639-3226. Check out our Facebook page too.

Introducing The SJ Learning ExchangeThe Saint John Learning Exchange is a non-profit adult education organization that offers a positive and supportive learner-centred environment and self-paced learn-ing programs.

We have been providing education, literacy, and essential skills train-ing for over 29 years. In an effort to continue to meet the needs of our learners, we have recently intro-duced a Job Developer and two Workforce Coaches to our team.

This will enable the Learning Exchange to provide ongoing support, assistance, and follow-up for individuals who have recently completed training programs and are ready to transition to work.

We look forward to continuing to work together with the community in assisting those looking to move forward into education and employ-ment!

Quotes from former learners:

“The Learning Exchange offers more than just a chance at an educa-tion, it gives someone a feeling of fitting into the community and the confidence you need to move forward.”

“It’s like I’ve been reborn! Doubts of youth are replaced with the wis-dom that anyone can make the commitment to achieve higher learn-ing.”

ONE Change Youth Help With New Flowers

By Alberta Stanton, Co-Chair, Fundy Wellness NetworkIn May of this year an exciting partnership between the Fundy Well-ness Network, the residents at Stephenson Tower and Charlton Place, Social Development and the ONE Change Youth Inclusion Program was formed.

The youth have visited the residents to brainstorm ideas of activities these two groups can do together. This mutually beneficial relationship and the wealth of knowledge these seniors groups shared with the stu-dents will enhance the well-being of all involved! The first project was to revitalize one of the raised flowerbeds at the entrance to Stephen-son Tower, with a donation of annuals donated by Halifax Seed. We are looking forward to many more projects/fun events!

Mother’s Day Tea In Crescent Valley

The moms of Crescent Valley were treated to a Mother's Day Tea held at the Crescent Valley Resource Centre on May 11. The party was complete with linen tablecloths, finger sandwiches, fancy china cups and saucers and home baked sweets. The afternoon was a fun way to show appreciation to the mothers of Crescent Valley who work so hard every day. Everyone went home with a prize too! The sponsors for this event were Department of So-cial Development, CV Tenants’ Assoc and CV Resource Center. Spe-cial thanks to Robin’s Donuts for donating tea and coffee and Atlantic Superstore on Somerset Street who donated a Mother's Day cake.

Pictured Above from left to right: : Leesa MacLaren, Tara Parlee, Debbie McLeod, and

Catherine Sabean at the CV Mother’s Day Tea. (Photo Courtesy of Anne Driscoll)

Philip Williston received an award from the Multi-Cultural Society for this continued volunteer work with that group. With him is Linda Scott Co-ordinator.

Multi-Cultural Society Award

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Combatting Food Insecurity in NB SJ Learning ExchangeBy Shirley Oliver with Mureen CreamerThe reason I came to Learning Exchange was to get help with my GED course and all my subjects and to learn about my country and other countries and their people too. It was very interesting to learn about other countries. I learned a lot of things I didn’t know before. I thank all the staff for all the help they could give me. I took another course there and I passed it all and got a certificate for it. I went to Fisher Lakes and the staff gave us a picnic, and I went to the Christmas party and I enjoyed it very much. I enjoyed be-ing at the Learning Exchange and meeting new friends. I miss all my friends at Learning Exchange very much.

Pictured Above: Shirley Belyea(Photo by Crystal Belyea)

 

Housing for Older Canadians – New Online Guide

Older Canadians are a growing demographic group and have unique needs and preferences. A newly released online publication on the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) web site now offers more insight into this market. “Housing for Older Canadians: The Definitive Guide to the Over-55 Market - Volume 1: Understanding the Market’’ provides a broad overview of the seniors market in Canada and of trends in seniors' housing arrangements, incomes, and retirement. To view the online Guide, search key words ‘‘Guide 55’’ on www.cmhc.ca. Le logement des aînées au Canada – Nouveau guide publié en ligneLes aînés canadiens constituent un groupe démographique en croissance qui a des préférences et des besoins particuliers.Un nouveau guide, publié sur le site Web de la Société canadienne d’hypothèques et de logement (SCHL), nous permet maintenant de mieux comprendre ce marché. « Le logement des aînés au Canada : Le guide du marché des plus de 55 ans - Volume 1 : Comprendre le marché » dresse un panorama du marché du logement pour les personnes âgées au Canada, ainsi que des tendances au chapitre des conditions de logement, des revenus et de la retraite des aînés. Pour consulter le Guide, allez sur le site Web de la Société, au www.schl.ca, et tapez les mots clés « Guide 55 ».

By Brenda MurphyThe Saint John Votes (SJ Votes) Committee was pleased with the results of our campaign to have more people in the priority neighbour-hoods vote in the municipal election that was just held. While we do not have the numbers as yet to know if we were successful in increas-ing the voter turnout, we do know that in each neighbourhood we cre-ated quite a buzz about voting. There were groups at a polling station in each community who organized BBQ’s on election day; two orga-nizations arranged for their program participants to go as a group to vote at the Returning office, with quite a number of participants voting for the first time and, of course, the special election edition of Around the Block was well received.

We also appreciated the support of the Saint John District Labour Council who provided the resources for the BBQs.

We plan to continue our efforts in the next provincial election in 2014.

Par Mary StackLe Nouveau-Brunswick, jusqu'en 2006, a attiré plus de 3 650 im-migrants francophones. Cela représente 2,7 % du nombre total d'immigrants qui ont choisi de s'installer au sein des communautés francophones et acadiennes du Canada. L'immigration francophone au Nouveau-Brunswick est à la fois une opportunité et un défi que le Nouveau-Brunswick entend relever.On remarque une croissance de l'immigration au cours des toutesdernières années, alors que l'accueil de nouveaux arrivants est de-venu une priorité à la fois du gouvernement provincial et de la com-munauté acadienne et francophone. Depuis 2009, Le SJMNRC a eu le privilège comme seul organisme à offrir des services francophones d’accueil, d’établissement, d’emploi et d’intégration à Saint John à ce genre de mouvement migratoire qui se poursuit. Ses immigrants fran-cophones qui proviennent du monde entier ont tous choisit de prendre Saint John comme leur terre d’accueil et leur chez eux.

Une Acadie qui commence à se diversifier

Saint John Votes Review

By Marcus AlexanderOn Monday June 18th, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Healthy Liv-ing Trevor Holder announced that the Government of New Brunswick would be creating a provincial wide plan called the, “Community Food Action Program” that will provide grants of up to $2000 to projects that provide their communities with healthy nutritional options.

The provincial government is hop-ing that by funding proactive healthy programs now, the New Brunswick-ers of tomorrow will be healthier and have better food security. Or-ganizations can apply for a portion of the $50,000 set aside by the government for the Community Food Action Program. This means better funding for health conscious programs like The Crescent Valley Community Garden; it is a local example of an organization that is striving for community involvement, health awareness and the fulfill-ment of planting your own vegetables.

Pictured Above: Louise Buick hard at work in the Crescent Valley Garden

(Photo by Juanita Black)

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Around The Block Team (Issue 23)

Introducing Vibrant Communities New Coordinator

My Name is Barry Galloway and I am the new Coordinator for Vibrant Communities Saint John. I have been working in the non profit com-munity for about 30 years. I have a great deal of experience in the dis-ability field as well as work with homeless and at risk youth. I worked for about 10 years in Ontario with a Poverty Reduction Community Organization called St. Christopher House and helped to build a tran-sitional shelter for homeless youth called Evas’s Phoenix. I have also worked in the Employment area for a long time, and assisting people to obtain their GED and in the development of Social Enterprises. Pri-or to coming here I was the lead staff of a cross disability organization in Newfoundland and Labrador. I am so excited about working with Vibrant Communities and finding out what you want to see improve in your communities. I will help in any way I can, I am here for you!

Old North End: Wendy Barron-Belmore.South End: Mary LeSage.Waterloo-Village: Penni Eisenhauer. Crescent Valley: Anne Driscoll. Lower West Side: Patti Kelly, and Jill Roberts.Proof readers: Mary Collier Fleet, Anna O’Hara, Linda Boyle, Rona Holwald, Mark Driscoll, Belinda Kumar, Cindy Bishop, Shawn Parlee, Marcus Alexander and Randy Hatfield. Layout and Design: Chris Hopkins, and Juanita Black.Ad Design: Chris Hopkins. Community members: Carl Tricky, Lyn King, Amanda Maxwell,Kim Williams. Vibrant Communities: Cathy Wright.

Grant Money Given To Neighbourhoods

The City of Saint John presented $150,000 in cheques to neighbour-hood groups. The money supports staffing, leadership building and other programs in neighbourhoods that has resulted in a high level of engagement and participation. Making the presentations were Coun-cillor’s Susan Fullerton and Donnie Snook.

Groups receiving money were; • Quality Learning New Brunswick, $2,500.

• Crescent Valley Resource Centre, $22,000.

• Village Association / East Side Motivators, $18,000.

• Vibrant Communities Around The Block, $21,500.

• ONE Change, $22,000.

• Teen Resource Centre for Youth, $22,000.

• Westside PACT, $22,000.

• PULSE (People United In The Lower South End) $22,000.

• Anglin Drive Neighbourhood Tenants Association, $1,000.

Community Groups Recieving Neighbourhood Development Stimulation Grants

Remaining Positive In Difficult Times

ByJun-Ying (Julia) LiuI grew up in northern China. In 1976, when I was twelve, my parents were killed in an earthquake leaving my sister and me orphans. It was difficult, but I became strong and mature. I learned to plan my life without my parents’ guidance. At seventeen, I went to Tianjin University and chose science even though there were mostly male students. Dur-ing my studies, my sister was sick and I had to accompany her to the hospital. I got my degree. Sadly, my sister died recently. I just have my husband and daughter now.

My latest challenge is starting a new life in Canada. I am in the Em-ployment Language Training program at the Y. I am learning English and looking for a job. I value the hardships that gave me confidence to overcome difficulties. My positive attitude has benefitted me my whole life and that’s why I am able to remain happy and optimistic.

Pictured Above: Jun-Ying Volunteering at the Bookstore