St. John's Fall City Guide 2020

FALL 2020

Poet Laureate brings poetry to the people Pages 30-31

The Water Street Pedestrian Mall Pages 36-37

Celebrating 125 years of the SJFRD Pages 6-7

stjohns.ca

CITY GUIDE |FALL 2020

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City Council Mayor Danny Breen 576-8477 dbreen@stjohns.ca DannyBreenNL DannyBreenNL

Deputy Mayor Sheilagh O’Leary 576-8363 soleary@stjohns.ca sheilagholeary OLeary

Ward 1 Councillor Deanne Stapleton 576-2332 dstapleton@stjohns.ca deanneforWard1 deannestapleto2

Ward 2 Councillor Hope Jamieson 576-7144 hjamieson@stjohns.ca HopeforWard2 HopeforWard2

Ward 3 Councillor Jamie Korab 576-8643 jkorab@stjohns.ca jamiekorab.ca jamiekorab jamie.korab

Ward 4 Councillor Ian Froude 576-8217 ifroude@stjohns.ca ianfroude IanSFroude

Ward 5 Councillor Wally Collins 576-8584 wcollins@stjohns.ca

Councillor at Large Maggie Burton 576-8286 mburton@stjohns.ca mmburton maggieatlarge

Councillor at Large Dave Lane 576-8243 dlane@stjohns.ca DaveLaneStJohns.ca DaveLaneTweets DaveLaneStJohns

Councillor at Large Sandy Hickman 576-8045 shickman@stjohns.ca SandyHAtLarge sandy.hickman.18

Councillor at Large Debbie Hanlon 576-8219 dhanlon@stjohns.ca DebbieHanlon1 Debbie.Hanlon2

Contents Neighbourhood Profiles................ 3 Old Trees of St. John’s................. 4-5 SJRFD Anniversary....................... 6-7

City Guide

Waste/Recycling......................... 8-15

Information and stories about the programs and services of the City of St. John’s; produced quarterly and distributed via mail to all households in the capital city.

If you do not wish to receive unaddressed mail including the City Guide, put a note on or in your mailbox stating you do not wish to receive Canada Post Neighbourhood Mail™.

If you continue to receive unaddressed advertising after you have placed the note on your mailbox, submit a service ticket at canadapost.ca or call Canada Post Customer Service at 1-866-607-6301.

Editor-in-Chief: Susan Bonnell Design: Scott Courage

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Managing Editor: Shelley Pardy communications@stjohns.ca

Rodents Proofing............................ 17 Recreation...................................18-29 10 Things not to Flush...................27 Poet Laureate.............................30-31 Youth Engagement........................33 Humane Services..................... 34-35 Water St. Pedestrian Mall.......36-37 Accessing Food..........................38-39

Check out Neighbourhood Profiles Take a virtual tour of the city with our new web feature The City is proud to have launched a new mapping and neighbourhood profile feature at map.stjohns.ca/neighbourhoods The new web application divides the city into 28 distinct areas, or “neighbourhoods,” that are defined by their history, landscape, and unique cultural heritage.

Each neighbourhood profile includes pictures of the area, historical information and points of interest as well as a map to nine key areas of interest, including recreation and sport opportunities, places of faith, health facilities and schools.

“Neighbourhoods are the building blocks of our city,” said Councillor Jamie Korab, Council lead for Community Services. “St. John's is a welcoming and diverse community with an abundance of amenities, programs and services and we are

proud to highlight these through this new webpage.”

Defining broad, neighbourhood boundaries does not diminish the importance of wards or existing neighbourhood identification. For example, a local, well-established neighbourhood like Georgestown is included within the larger neighbourhood profile of Rennie’s River, and some wards cross through multiple neighbourhood profiles.

community organizations, businesses, tourists and current residents who want to learn more about areas in which they want to live, work and play,” said Councillor Korab. “We plan to grow this page over time to include additional community features and link with our Neighbourhood Watch and other community programs.”

These new boundaries will be used internally to gather evidence for planning, decision making and service evaluation for both staff and council. They will also assist local community agencies with program planning, development and implementation to increase the efficacy of services.

“We believe this new web feature will be useful to newcomers,

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Old Trees of St. John’s

By Brian Mercer Municipal Arborist, City of St. John’s Geographically, St. John’s is a large city of over 440 km2 with a sizeable portion of this area dominated by native forest including many trees. However, within the more densely populated parts of the city there are many areas where the presence of trees is sparse.

A tree inventory completed by the City in 2005 identified 53,335 trees in parks & open spaces, including those near City streets, with the three most common trees being: • sycamore maple: 14,412 • Norway maple: 9,561 • white spruce: 2,909 Many of the big, old and interesting trees in St. John’s are found on the properties of older homes and likely date back to when the homes were constructed. The species chosen whether sycamore maple, Norway

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maple, horse chestnut, english oak, elm or beech are all species that were introduced to the province and likely selected by property owners as reminders of their homelands.

Without knowing when a tree was planted, its age can be tough to predict. Urban foresters often categorize trees into groups based on size or level of maturity, but these attributes do not always accurately reflect a tree’s age. One way to determine tree age is by boring into the stem, taking a core sample and counting annual growth rings. While the impact of this is minimal, it does create an entry point for disease and decay and is therefore generally discouraged.

Urban trees provide many benefits such as storm water mitigation, blocking wind, providing shade and mitigating the impacts of climate change. In general, the bigger the tree the greater the benefits. As our city continues to grow we need to ensure that so do our trees.

Some of the Oldest Trees in St. John’s Weeping Beech

Bannerman Park

Bowring Park, near The Bungalow pictured opposite page This weeping beech is a great example of an old, interesting tree found in the midst of one of St. John’s busiest parks. This tree was planted by the park’s designers, prior to the park opening in 1914. Like many other specimens of beech, the Weeping Beech at Bowring Park bare the initials of many of its past visitors, an unfortunate trait of its smooth, light grey bark. Bark is like a tree’s skin and should be left untouched to do its job of protecting the living parts of the tree that transport water and nutrients.

Beech “The Wisdom Tree” Margaret’s Place

Bannerman Park opened in 1891 and was Newfoundland’s first public park. Some of the bigger, and likely older, trees in the park are along the path from Military Road. A mix of elm, maple and chestnut trees line the pathway providing a canopy of shade.

Tuckamore Blackhead Road, near Cape Spear

A large beech tree that was protected by the City from development is located at Margaret’s Place. Locals call it “The Wisdom Tree”. Some believe because the tree is so old that if it could talk it would have a million stories to tell – perhaps including how its bark became covered with carvings of initials and other designs!

Tuckamore is a Newfoundland word given to trees growing along the coast whose growth have been stunted by the harsh climatic conditions. Seemingly, despite all odds the trees continue to grow, hugging the ground in line with prevailing winds.

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125 years of Bravery, Safety and Honour The St. John’s Fire Department was originally established in 1895 under the government to protect the citizens of St. John’s after the Great Fire of 1892 which saw the destruction of hundreds of homes, leaving thousands of people homeless and causing millions of dollars in damage.

In 1992 the department was transferred to the City of St. John’s to provide emergency protection to St. John’s and Mount Pearl through a Regional Fire Services Committee. It subsequently became known as the St. John’s Regional Fire Department (SJRFD) which now proudly serves St. John’s, Mount Pearl and Paradise.

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We value the history and tradition of the SJRFD, an organization built on the past. Just as importantly we value the commitment of the men and women who are currently with the department, who share the responsibility of shaping our future.

Contact us: Fire Prevention Division 576-3905 fireprevention@stjohns.ca sjrfd.ca @SJRFD

The SJRFD of today is a modern and progressive department that is committed to protecting the lives and property of the citizens we serve.

“The men and women of the SJRFD provide these services in a professional manner and are to be commended for this, given some of the many inherent challenges of protecting a combination of historic and modern architecture,” says Chief Colford.

The St. John’s Regional Fire Department was born out of the Great Fire of 1892 which burned over two-thirds of St. John’s leaving over 11,000 homeless. The aftermath can be seen in the picture below.

A look back at Firefighting in St. John’s Whether it was horse drawn equipment of yesteryear or the modern fire engines of today, the St. John’s Regional Fire Department has always maintained a high level

of technology and training for its staff to safeguard property and save lives. Here’s a look at some historical pictures of the equipment used over the years.

u

v

w 1. The Central Fire Station in St. John’s in 1901.

2. The first motorized engine acquired by the Fire Department in 1920.

3. Horses were used by the Fire Department into the 1950s to supplement motorized equipment during the winter months.

4. A La France Aerial ladder on display, 1926, note the four fire fighters on the ladder.

5. All the trucks housed at the Central Fire Station, 1939.

6. An Emerson engine and a La France Aerial ladder outside Pleasantville Station, 1966.

x

z

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Waste & Recycling Mulch or Use Paper Yard Waste Bags Since putting yard waste at the curb in paper bags became mandatory two years ago, residents of St. John’s have diverted more than 2,500 tonnes of organic yard waste from the landfill!

The City is very pleased with the success of the curbside yard waste collection program as we’re seeing more and more organic material including leaves, grass clippings and

small twigs being composted rather than landfilled. The yard waste bags are composted at the Robin Hood Bay Waste Management Facility and used in City landscaping projects.

The best choice for grass clippings, both environmentally and economically, is to mulch them.

In other words, just mow and go!

Mulching is the most economically efficient way to dispose of leaves and

grass and the most earth-friendly approach for handling them.

If mulching is not an option for you, put your leaves and grass clippings in paper yard waste bags at the curb on the same day as your recycling day.

To find out when your recycling and yard waste collection is go to curbitstjohns.ca > schedules.

Yard waste in bags stays out of the landfill The City of St. John’s collects yard waste at the curb in paper yard waste bags only. Place the paper yard waste bags at the curb biweekly on the same day as your recycling day, until the end of November.

There is no limit to the number of paper yard waste bags that can be set out for collection at the curb. Yard waste

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bags must be under 50 lbs and are collected separately from your garbage and recycling.

Paper yard waste bags can also be brought to the Residential Drop Off at Robin Hood Bay until December 12.

Mulch is the Best Option Mulching is the earth-friendly approach to disposing of leaves and grass. It does wonders for your lawn! Save time, money, and your back. No need to rake your grass clippings, buy bags, or lug the bags to the curb.

Soil Enrichment

Insulation

Grass and leaf mulch puts nutrients back to the soil. Your lawn and garden will require less fertilizer and other additives.

Mulch acts like an insulating barrier from the heat in the summer, from the cold in the winter and from the wind all year round. Mulch prevents compaction and erosion of soils from wind and rain.

Water Conservation Grass and leaf mulch helps to retain moisture in soils. When soil is covered with mulch, the mulch lowers the soil’s exposure to sun and wind which reduces evaporation.

Weed Control Mulch can help prevent the growth of weeds. Add a thick layer - 5 to 7.5 cm (2 to 3”) - to gardens to reduce the need for herbicides.

What else to do with leaves?

Dig leaves directly into your garden to add organic matter and nutrients to the soil. Put leaf mulch on gardens and flower beds and around shrubs and trees.

Add 2.5 cm (1 inch) layers of leaf mulch to your backyard composter while alternating with other materials or use a separate composter for leaves only. For a leaf composter, alternate 15 cm (6 inches) of leaf mulch with a 2.5 cm (1 inch) layer

of soil or finished compost and maintain by turning it regularly and keeping it moist.

Rake regular or mulched leaves into a 90 cm (3 foot) pile in a back corner of your yard. If leaves are dry, dampen with water. Turn the pile a few times in spring and summer to speed up the decomposition process which can take up to 12 months.

Learn to Compost If you are interested in learning how to properly backyard compost, the experts at the MUN Botanical Garden can help!

Access St. John’s and they will take your payment. Once payment is received the City will deliver your bin to your home.

Sign up for a free information session at curbitstjohns.ca > Recycling > Backyard Composting

Backyard compost bins are available for purchase once you’ve completed the session. Cost is $50 for a standard compost bin, and $75 for a tumbler bin.

Complete your purchase by calling Access St. Johns’ at 311 or 754-CITY (2489).

If you need to replace your compost bin or want to purchase more bins contact

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Automated Garbage Collection: Top 6 Things to Keep in Mind

1m

=

1

If you haven’t already, write your address on the white label on the side of the cart with a permanent marker.

2

When placing your cart for collection please ensure the arrows on the lid of the cart are pointing towards the street.

3

Don’t place carts on lawns and keep one metre away from parked vehicles, poles and recycling and yard waste bags.

4 5 6

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Ensure your cart lid is fully closed. Carts hold four, full, standard-sized bags of garbage.

Each cart has a radio frequency identifying (RFID) tag and individual serial numbers.

Carts are assigned to a property - not a person - and residents who move leave the cart behind.

The cart is the property of the City, however responsibility for the cart rests with the property owner. Property owners are charged to replace carts that are vandalized, stolen or lost. The City replaces defective carts or those damaged because of collection efforts.

For more on the automated garbage program, go to curbitstjohns.ca

Reduce Your Waste with Improved Recycling We encourage residents to check out all the items that can be recycled at the curb in blue bags, including these bulky items that take up space in the cart: y Cardboard y Boxboard (eg. cracker and cereal boxes, etc.) y Milk cartons y Steel cans y Plastic clam shells y Laundry soap containers To find out what you can recycle, go to curbitstjohns.ca

Former Mayor O’Keefe and friends celebrate 5 years of Curbit in October 2015.

Curbit Marks 10th Anniversary Congratulations everyone! Curbit is celebrating its 10-year anniversary! It all began October 18, 2010 when blue bags began appearing on the streets of St John’s.

• residents sorting their recycling properly and keeping unwanted material out of their bags;

Curbside recycling has become a success for all of us. While other municipalities across Canada have had struggles with their programs in the past year, St. John’s Curbit program did not have any interruptions or changes to make when China closed its doors to many recycling companies. We still ship material to China as they are very pleased with our paper product. All plastics, aluminum, steel, cardboard and some paper are shipped to Canadian markets.

• the City’s communications about recycling to residents.

Our success in the curbside recycling program is because of: • the two-bag sorting program; • the omission of glass and plastic bags; • collectors educating residents about what can be included;

• the use of transparent blue bags; and

Today, some plastics have become more challenging to market due to low oil prices, COVID-19 and higher volumes in the marketplace for buyers to choose from. However, the City still markets plastics.

The City of St John’s is committed to sustainability. The City’s Strategic Plan for 2019-2029 has as one of its four strategic directions to be A Sustainable City, one that is sustainable today and for future generations. This is about ensuring we can provide for ourselves, each other and our families. To do this, we must protect our environment and come together to build a healthy, vibrant, and strong community. We are all in this together.

One of the many things residents of St. John’s have done to contribute to building our sustainable community is recycle. Over the past ten years we have recycled fifty-nine thousand tonnes of material. It does make a difference!

If you have not joined in with the curbside recycling program, we would love for you to be a part of our success.

For more information on the program please visit curbitstjohns.ca or call Access St. John’s at 311 or 754-CITY (2489).

Once again, we want to thank our residents who do a great job ensuring their recycling material is clean. We would also like to thank our collectors, our contractor and staff who sort and bale the material for our markets; and to the other communities who also take part in our program at the Robin Hood Bay Regional Waste Management Facility.

Congratulations again on your continued cooperation in ensuring Curbit is a huge success!

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Waste Types Accepted at Robin Hood Bay Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the hours of operation at the Robin Hood Bay Waste Management Facility (RHB) have changed. For up-to-date hours of operation check curbitstjohns.ca or contact Access St. John’s.

The Residential Drop Off (RDO) at RHB is for residents only.

Waste coming from businesses, institutions, contractors, landlords of rental properties and waste haulers must report to the scale house with a permit to dispose of waste on the landfill tipping face.

At RHB your waste is no longer treated as garbage. More and more waste collected at the RDO is recycled or otherwise diverted away from the landfill.

Pre-sorting is very important for an efficient experience at the RDO. We have different bins or facilities for different types of waste, so organize your items into these waste types before your visit.

Don’t see an item listed?

To find out how to dispose of an item use ‘Put Waste in its Place’ a handy search feature on our website, curbitstjohns.ca

Recyclable containers & papers are collected at the curb every second week; garbage is collected every week.

From spring to fall yard waste, in paper yard waste bags only, is collected at the curb every second week on your recycling day.

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Proper disposal: batteries & unused fireworks

Recyclable Cardboard Cardboard only, bundled or loose (not bagged)

Batteries and unused fireworks do not belong in the garbage as they can cause fires at the landfill; this is a safety issue. To dispose of: Batteries - bring them to the Hazardous Waste depot at Robin Hood Bay; or check out other options in Put Waste In its Place.

Fireworks (unused) – return to the vendor you bought them from.

Hazardous Waste Examples: Oils (cooking, motor, lubricating, transmission fluid, etc), Batteries (household and car), CFL lightbulbs

Recyclable Containers All items must be in see-through blue bags.

Glass is NOT accepted.

Examples: aluminum cans, disposable aluminum trays, tin cans, milk and juice cartons, Tetra paks, plastic drink & food bottles/containers, plastic cleaning supply bottles

Recyclable Papers All items must be in see-through blue bags.

Examples: cardboard, pizza boxes, food boxes, office/ writing paper, newspapers & magazines, take-out drink trays, paper bags

COVER

and

Recyclable Electronics Examples: computers, tablets, monitors, keyboards, speakers, printers, televisions, DVD/VCR players, telephones (all types)

Metal If you have metal only, AIM Recycling at RHB is open Monday to Saturday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Examples: barbecues (no propane tanks), bicycles, refrigerators, freezers, stoves, dishwashers, washers, dryers, hot water heaters

Furniture Put gently-used furniture in a donation bin to support the Home Again Furniture Bank.

Garbage We accept almost anything you can’t recycle! Loose garbage can be brought to the RDO, but to keep litter at a minimum please bag light items such as Styrofoam.

NOTE that liquids and metals are prohibited from disposal in the landfill, so we can’t accept them as garbage.

SECUREyour LOAD!

for a safer road Cleaning up? Bring your items to the Robin Hood Bay Residential Drop Off!

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Area 1A to 5A, 2020

Normal Garbage Day 1A Monday

Area

Curbside Collection

Garbage/ Garbage/Yard Recycling Waste/Recycling

2A Tuesday 3A Wednesday

Learn your area at curbitstjohns.ca or call 311 or 754-CITY (2489).

4A Thursday

New in 2020: After a storm or holiday, cancelled collections will take place the next day, making for a ‘double day’. No other collection areas are affected.

5A Friday

H

Holiday

H

Waste must be at the curb between 6 and 8 a.m. on your collection day only. Garbage must be completely covered from April 1 to November 30.

From May 4 to December 4 yard waste must be in paper yard waste bags and at the curb on your recycling day.

Garbage carts must be placed properly to ensure collection.

M 6 13 20 27

M 6 13 20 27

M 6 13 20 27

M 5 12 H 19 26 14

T 7 14 21 28

T 7 14 21 28

T 7 14 21 28

T 6 13 20 27

January W

1 H 8 15 22 29

T

2 9 16 23 30

April

W

1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

July

W

1 H 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

October W

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

F

3 10 17 24 31

F 3 10 H 17 24

F 3 10 17 24 31

F 2 9 16 23 30

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S

4 11 18 25

S 4 11 18 25

S 4 11 18 25

S 3 10 17 24 31

M 3 10 17 24

M 4 11 18 H 25

M 3 10 17 24 31

M

2 9 16 23 30

T 4 11 18 25

T 5 12 19 26

T 4 11 18 25

T

3 10 17 24

February W

5 12 19 26

T

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

May

W 6 13 20 27

T

7 14 21 28

August W

5 12 19 26

T

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

November W

4 11 H 18 25

F 1 8 15 22 29

T 5 12 19 26

F 6 13 20 27

S

1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30 S 1 8 15 22 29

S 7 14 21 28

M

2 9 16 23 30

M

1 8 15 22 29

M

T

3 10 17 24 31

T

2 9 16 23 30

T

1 7 H 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

M

T

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 H 29

March

W

4 11 18 25

T

5 12 19 26

June

W

3 10 17 24

T 4 11 18 25

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

F 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27

September W

2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24

December W

2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

S

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

F 4 11 18 25 H

S 5 12 19 26 H

Normal Garbage Day 1B Monday

Area 1B to 5B, 2020

Garbage/ Garbage/Yard Recycling Waste/Recycling

Area

Curbside Collection

2B Tuesday 3B Wednesday

Learn your area at curbitstjohns.ca or call 311 or 754-CITY (2489).

4B Thursday

New in 2020: After a storm or holiday, cancelled collections will take place the next day, making for a ‘double day’. No other collection areas are affected.

5B Friday

H

Holiday

H

Waste must be at the curb between 6 and 8 a.m. on your collection day only. Garbage must be completely covered from April 1 to November 30.

From May 11 to November 27 yard waste must be in paper yard waste bags and at the curb on your recycling day.

Garbage carts must be placed properly to ensure collection.

M 6 13 20 27

M 6 13 20 27

M 6 13 20 27

M 5 12 H 19 26

T 7 14 21 28

T 7 14 21 28

T 7 14 21 28

T 6 13 20 27

January W

1 H 8 15 22 29

T

2 9 16 23 30

April

W

1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

July

W

1 H 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

October W

7 14 21 28

T

1 8 15 22 29

F

3 10 17 24 31

F 3 10 H 17 24

S

4 11 18 25

S 4 11 18 25

F 3 10 17 24 31

S 4 11 18 25

F

S

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

M 3 10 17 24

M 4 11 18 H 25

M 3 10 17 24 31

M

2 9 16 23 30

T 4 11 18 25

T 5 12 19 26

T 4 11 18 25

T

3 10 17 24

February W

5 12 19 26

T

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

May

W 6 13 20 27

T

7 14 21 28

August W

5 12 19 26

4 11 H 18 25

1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30

T

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

S 1 8 15 22 29

F

S

November W

F 1 8 15 22 29

S

T

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

M

2 9 16 23 30

M

1 8 15 22 29

M

T

3 10 17 24 31

T

2 9 16 23 30

T

1 7 H 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

M

T

1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 H 29

March

W

4 11 18 25

T

5 12 19 26

June

W

3 10 17 24

T 4 11 18 25

F

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

F 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27

September W

2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24

December W

2 9 16 23 30

T

3 10 17 24 31

S

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

F

S

4 11 18 25 H

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5 12 19 26 H 15

Take the bus to the pool

Routes 3 & 23 pass right by Paul Reynolds Community Centre and routes 11 & 12 service H.G.R. Mews Community Centre.

Plan your trip at metrobus.com/TakeTheBus 16

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Concerned About Rodents on Your Property?

If you have rats it doesn’t mean your property is dirty, it means there is shelter and an open food source for them.

Rats are attracted to small spaces because they feel protected. If a space is small enough for rodents to access, but not for their predators such as cats and dogs, rats will make it a home. Rats can make homes in anything that provides shelter including sheds and garages, wood or rock piles, under enclosed patios and stairwells and in unwanted items such as old water tanks, appliances, building materials and tires.

Remove food sources • Do not store garbage outside; place it at the curb no earlier than 6 a.m. on your pickup day • Remove bird feeders or attach catch basins so bird feed does not fall on the ground • Do not store pet food, bird feed and lawn seed outside • Compost properly – do not add fish or meat to backyard compost bins Remove potential shelters • Tall grass, weeds and vegetation next to buildings and fences should be removed • Lumber, rocks, garbage, building material and other materials should be removed • Do not enclose the base of patios and raised stairwells, not even with lattice • Items that must be stored outside should be at least 46 cm (18 inches) off the ground and 30cm (12 inches) from walls and fences Rat proof your property • Make it impossible for rats to get into any structure • Use screens in drains and tightly seal where utilities enter buildings • Install a metal kicking plate or heavy weather stripping beneath doors, including garage doors • If building a patio or shed on a grade, bury sheet metal skirting 30cm (12 inches) below the grade Destroy rats Rat eradication is best done by a professional pest control operator. Look up ‘Pest Control Services’ in the Yellow Pages or online.

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Recreation Registration Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the uncertainty of physical distancing requirements in the coming months, the City of St. John’s fall programs may be postponed, adapted for reduced capacity or cancelled at any time.

For the most current program and service offerings please visit stjohns.ca/RECconnect.

Fall Programs & Swimming Lessons

St. John’s residents

Residents of other municipalities

7 a.m., Thursday, August 27

7 a.m., Tuesday, September 1

Registration Options Online: stjohns.ca/RECconnect Telephone: 709-576-8499

Program Ages To register for most programs participants must be the age listed on December 31, 2020.

Cancellation The City, at its discretion, may cancel programs at any time including but not limited to low registration and/or instructor availability.

Whether you register online, over the telephone or in person, you must ensure your account is activated and up-to-date at minimum 72 hours before the registration time.

Wish List

Add the courses you want to your wish list for quick access on registration day.

Waitlists

Our waitlist is not prioritized. If a spot becomes available, all on the waitlist are contacted by email and the spot is filled on a first come, first served basis.

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Application deadlines for REAL and Inclusion Support: Program

Deadline

Winter Programs

Nov. 17

Rent a Facility City facilities can be booked for a variety of functions including baby or bridal showers, family gatherings, community/corporate events or sports activities. Limited space is available due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Facility

Details

H.G.R. Mews Community Centre 40 Mundy Pond Road 576-8499

y Gym y Kitchen y Multi-Purpose room

Paul Reynolds Community Centre 35 Carrick Drive 576-8631

y Gym y Multi-Purpose room

Kenmount Terrace Community Centre 85 Messenger Drive 576-6112

y y y y

Southlands Community Centre 40 Teakwood Drive 364-5129

y Multi-Purpose room y Kitchen y Meeting room

Shea Heights Community Centre 130 Linegar Avenue 576-1023

y Multi-Purpose room y Kitchen

Kilbride Lions Community Centre 34 Fahey Street 368-0250

y Multi-Purpose room y Kitchen

Cabot 500 Theatre Bowring Park recreation@stjohns.ca

y Outdoor theatre accommodates 750

Rotary ‘Sunshine’ Park Chalet Thorburn Road recreation@stjohns.ca

y 24 bunk beds y Kitchen y Outdoor barbeque

Foran/Greene Room City Hall civicfunctions@stjohns.ca

y Up to 325 people, depending on seating arrangement y Kitchen

Gym Kitchen Multi-Purpose Room Meeting Room

For details on programs and services visit: stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation and Parks > Community Programs

Birthday Parties

Currently not available due to COVID-19 precautions.

Swimming and Gym parties y H.G.R. Mews Centre y Paul Reynolds Centre Costs range from $140 to $260.

Call 576-8499 or 576-8631.

Gym parties y y y y

Kenmount Terrace Centre Shea Heights Centre Southlands Centre Kilbride Centre

Contact the centres for fees and availability.

Court Sports

H.G.R. Mews Community Centre has 2 courts designed for racquetball or handball.

Book a 40 minute session by calling 576-8499.

Cost Court Rental $8

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Help a kid play today!

Now, more than ever, the REAL Program is in need of your help.

REAL Need The REAL Program’s success is dependent upon funding received from corporate organizations, local businesses, individuals, social and recreational groups and private fundraising initiatives. Many of these funding sources have been put on hold or cancelled as a result of COVID-19.

We are seeking funding support to help the vulnerable populations we serve reconnect with their community through recreation and leisure opportunities. 100% of your donation will cover the costs associated with registration fees, transportation and equipment so children and youth can attend local activities.

For more information please call 576-8684 or 4556 or email real@stjohns.ca

REAL Support deadlines

Ways to Donate: Online

stjohns.ca/real

In Person Drop off your donation at the following locations: • Paul Reynolds Community Centre, 35 Carrick Dr • H.G.R. Mews Community Center, 40 Mundy Pond Rd

Mail

REAL Program City of St. John’s P. O. Box 908 St. John’s, NL A1C 5M2

See page 18 stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation and Parks > REAL Program

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Recycle for REAL Drop off your recyclable containers to any Ever Green Recycling Depot using the code 5768684.

Inclusive Services Do you require support to participate in City of St. John’s recreation and leisure programs? To learn more about how we can help, or to learn more about any of the programs and services listed here, contact us.

Contact us For more information about any of these programs or services: 576-4450 inclusion@stjohns.ca Inclusion Support deadlines: see page 18

Pursuing Active Lifestyles For individuals with mild to moderate developmental disabilities to learn about the basic skills needed for active living.

Therapeutic Recreation Referrals Therapeutic Recreation promotes safe and supportive recreation and leisure opportunities for participants with physical, mental, social or emotional barriers.

Participants may be referred by a professional or selfrefer.

TIME™ Together in Movement and Exercise A community-based exercise program for people with balance and mobility limitations who can walk 10 metres with or without an aide. Registration is by referral from a physician, physiotherapist, registered nurse or nurse practitioner.

Fit Finders Offered fall, winter and spring to groups facing barriers to participation in recreation and leisure. Groups experience activities in a safe, supportive environment with dedicated and experienced recreation staff.

Learn more on our website.

For details visit: stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation and Parks > Inclusive Services

Attendant Pass People with disabilities who require the support of an attendant to accompany them to events may apply for an attendant pass.

Adaptive Equipment Loan Program If Public Health Guidelines allow, we have equipment that can assist people with disabilities to participate in recreation and leisure activities. Contact us to borrow equipment.

Accessible Playground Equipment Accessible playgrounds are located in Bowring Park and Kenmount Terrace Community Centre.

Accessible swings are located in playgrounds at: • Bannerman Park • Bowring Park • Paul Reynolds Community Centre • Froude Avenue • McNiven Place • Penney Crescent • Spruce Meadows • St. Mary’s (near school) • Beothuk Street

Financial Support Financial support is available for those facing financial barriers to participate in City of St. John’s Recreation Division activities. Requests for children and youth are referred to the REAL Program.

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Swimming Indoor pools Paul Reynolds Community Centre, 35 Carrick Drive H.G.R. Mews Community Centre, 40 Mundy Pond Road All pools have accessible pool lifts.

For up-to-date swim schedules: y Call the Swim and Fitness Line: 576-8408 (Mews) or 576-8155 (PRCC) y Online stjohns.ca > Quick Links > Swim Schedules y Email recreation@stjohns.ca

For details visit: stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation and Parks > Swimming

Ticket purchase/registration Ticket purchase/registration is required for all swims.

Walk-in space may be available.

A RECconnect account is required for ticket purchase/ registration. Set up an account and purchase swim tickets at stjohns.ca/RECconnect.

Registration is available one week at a time. Registration begins noon on Saturdays, for the following week.

For example: Ticket purchase is available noon Saturday, Sept. 12 from swims from Sept. 14-20.

Each swim ticket costs $3. Once swim tickets are purchased the sale is final; refunds or credits will not be provided.

Maximum of 3 swimmers per lane, maximum of 5 swimmers per ‘bubble’.

Swim Descriptions Children under 13 must be supervised by a 19+ year-old who must remain in the water at arms-length.

Maximum 3 children to 1 supervisor.

Due to COVID-19 additional restrictions are in place (see page opposite). For a full list of rules, please see online schedules and descriptons at stjohns.ca/RECconnect.

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Swim Rules while Living with COVID-19 There are some changes in the way we offer swims during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Swims will look different and be offered at a reduced level at each site. Check our website for the most up-todate information about swimming.

NEW mandatory rules will be in place for swimming at City pools. Specific instructions for each swim will be posted and updated as required. These rules must be adhered to and if a participant does not follow the rules they will be asked to leave.

You may have to bring your personal belongings on the pool deck as a limited number of lockers are available.

Please do not bring valuables; staff are unable to hold items for you and there is nowhere to safely store them.

Be prepared to get in and out of the water quickly.

Showering before entry in the water is mandatory.

Showers are available for quick rinses only after swimming.

Swimmers are expected to stay within their bubble during the swim and keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet (2 metres, or arms lengths) away from other swimmers not in your bubble.

Please keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet from our lifeguard staff when possible. Our lifeguards remain rescue-ready and are willing to help you as always. If physical distancing cannot be maintained, lifeguards will work to ensure everyone’s safety.

Limited play equipment is available.

Canadian Red Cross Swimming lessons Our swim lessons will look a little different this fall, but we are working on getting you safely back in the pool with the best instruction possible. Keep an eye out for the Modified Learn to Swim Program.

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Clean Water

Healthy Swimming

Please follow these easy steps for a clean and healthy pool:

1

Don’t feed your children 2 hours before swimming.

2

If your child has diarrhea, please don’t send them swimming.

3

Take your child to the bathroom before swimming.

4

Make sure your infant/toddler wears a properly fitted swim diaper and please check diapers every 30-60 minutes.

5

Shower before entering the pool and avoid swallowing pool water.

Let’s keep it clean, we’re all in this together. w w w. s t j o h n s. c a

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Water Safety at Home and on the Go Water safety is an important part of local living; keep your family and friends safe with these water safety reminders.

•

Always stay close to small children during bath time; drowning can happen anywhere, it doesn’t take much water and can happen quickly. If you must leave the bathroom take the child out of the tub and with you.

•

Keep a close eye on your children around outdoor bodies of water. It’s easy to get distracted by the great outdoors but remember a slip or fall into water can happen in an instant, and let’s not forget how unpredictable the wind and waves can be. Pay attention and follow any posted signage or danger indicators.

•

While boating, always wear an approved lifejacket that fits. Whether you are paddling, sailing, cruising around the bay or fishing, you should wear a lifejacket. Weather conditions can change without warning and water can become rough and dangerous. Always be prepared to end up in the water, ensure everyone aboard keeps their lifejacket on and done up properly.

For additional resources check redcross.ca, www2.tc.gc.ca or lifesavingnl.ca

Questions?

Concerns? y Download our app y Call 311 or 754-CITY y Ask online at stjohns.ca

y Email accessstjohns@stjohns.ca y Visit Access St. John’s at City Hall

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Fitness

The City of St. John’s offers a wide range of fitness opportunities for adults, age 16+, who are looking to live a healthy, active lifestyle. All fitness classes require pre-registration.

For up-to-date schedules: • Call the Swim and Fitness Lines: 576-8408 (Mews) and 576-8155 (PRCC) • Online stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation and Parks > Fitness • Email recreation@stjohns.ca

Sports Facility Rentals The City of St. John’s has outdoor sport fields and pitches typically available for rent from June to mid-October.

For details or to inquire about rentals or to obtain an application form: • Email recreation@stjohns.ca • stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation & Parks > Recreation Facilities > Rental Information

VOLUNTEER TODAY! Give back to your community and build relationships with others all while having fun. For more information or for a Volunteer Application contact us.

576-8630 volunteer@stjohns.ca

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CITY GUIDE | FALL 2020

g n i eer t n olu

V@

10

Things

Not to Flush

Only the 3Ps should be flushed – pee, poo and (toilet) paper.

Many products labelled ‘flushable’ do not break down in the waste treatment process.

These items can cause clogs in your household plumbing, backups in sewer systems and maintenance and repair issues at wastewater treatment plants. These flushed items cost the City money in downtime and repairs. Here’s a list of some unflushables: 1. Flushable wipes (all kinds) 2. Dental floss 3. Food and fats 4. Condoms 5. Cigarette butts

6. Cotton balls 7. Feminine hygiene products 8. Cotton swabs 9. Tissues, napkins and paper towels 10. Bandages

Watch our video showing how wipes don’t break down like toilet paper.

Find it at: youtube.com/CityofStJohns

Find us Online!

stjohns.ca engagestjohns.ca curbitstjohns.ca mynewstjohns.ca map.stjohns.ca/neighbourhoods @CityofStJohns @CurbitStJohns @StJohnsFun @EconDevStJohns @StJohnsLIP @nlrailwaymuseum

@CityofStJohns @CSJCityCouncil @SJRFD @HumaneServicesStJohns @KilbrideLionsCommunityCentre @SouthlandsCommunityCentre @KenmountTerraceCommunityCentre @RailwayCoastalMuseum CityofStJohns

@CityofStJohns @railwaycoastalmuseum CITY GUIDE |FALL 2020

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Older Adults As of the print deadline of this guide, our Adult & Seniors programming is currently being assessed.

Contact us for up-to-date offerings. If you have questions or would like any information related to Adult & Seniors programing please call 576-8411 or 576-8490, or email recreation@stjohns.ca.

We would like to reflect on what some of our Adult & Seniors program instructors and participants have been doing to keep busy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Meet Mary Mary is actively involved in many of the City’s recreation programs. Many in the community know Mary as the Line Dance instructor at the H.G.R. Mews Community Centre.

“Since the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions I miss line dancing, keyboarding, knitting circle, dances at City Hall and just the social part of it all,” shares Mary.

Mary lives in a senior’s apartment complex, and says many residents are missing the weekly activities and are trying to find ways to keep busy and active.

Mary passes the time by practicing piano and accordion and takes part in virtual line dance classes.

Another passion of Mary’s is knitting, and she’s currently making her way through two large boxes of wool. Before the COVID-19 pandemic Mary’s busy lifestyle didn’t allow much time for her to knit, but now she is using her new extra time as an opportunity to take part in an activity that she enjoys.

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A selection of some of the items Mary knit over the past several months.

Resources for Seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic Seniors NL 709-737-2333 info@seniorsnl.ca www.seniorsnl.ca Connections for Seniors 709-699-8099 709-699-2858 info@connectionsforseniors.ca www.connectionsforseniors.ca

Meet Brenda Brenda is a social and active senior who is involved in many activities, including several of the City’s recreation programs.

Brenda is kind, caring and is always helping others the best way she can. Her past work experiences provide a wealth of knowledge in supporting people in the community.

Staying isolated at home has brought forth a mix of emotions for many.

Brenda is doing several things to remain positive and healthy while staying physically distant to help flatten the curve, such as: • Exercises in her apartment every day and takes walks when the weather is suitable • Practicing self-care and self-reflection

Bridge the gApp www.bridgethegapp.ca Community Food Helpline 811 CHANNAL Warm Line 1-855-753-2560 Office of the Seniors Advocate 729-6603 seniorsadvocate@ seniorsadvocatenl.ca Canadian Red Cross Self-Isolation Hotline 1-800-863-6582 Friendly Calls Hotline 1-833-729-0144

• Enjoying local food by contactless delivery • Lots of phone calls and texting with friends and family • Playing 20 questions with her dearest friend and her 90 year-old sister who is visually impaired • Helping neighbours in the apartment building by sharing ideas, meals, and snacks Brenda also told us that she now finally has the time to figure out how to use the dishwasher in her apartment after three years of living there!

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Poet Laureate Highlights Local Poets and Poetry Mary Dalton, Poet Laureate Mary Dalton, the Poet Laureate for the City of St. John’s, is Professor Emerita of English at Memorial University where she taught academic and creative-writing poetry courses for several decades. She is the author of five books of poetry as well as a collection of prose writings, Edge. Her poems, reviews, essays and interviews have been published in journals and anthologies in Canada, England, Ireland, America, and Belgium.

Mary has read her poems at universities and festivals in Canada, the U.S.A. and Ireland and has given many workshops for writers in St. John’s and beyond. She is a former editor and co-publisher of the NL literary journal TickleAce and a former editor of the journal Newfoundland Studies. In 2009 she founded the SPARKS Literary Festival at Memorial University which she also directed for many years.

Dalton’s poetry has received numerous nominations and awards including the TickleAce/Cabot Award for Poetry. The collection of poems Merrybegot won the E. J. Pratt Poetry Award, and was shortlisted for the Pat Lowther Memorial Poetry Award, the NL Heritage and History Award and was shortlisted for the Winterset Award.

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Photo by Bojan Furst

The Poet Laureate is an honour bestowed to a St. John’s poet as a way of acknowledging all poets and poetry and the value of their contribution to civic life.

Through the Poet Laureate we recognize poetry, and all art, as a fundamental and necessary component of civic society.

The Poet Laureate serves as an ambassador for poetry and integrates poetry into a range of official and unofficial civic events.

St. John’s Poets Laureate 2006-09 Agnes Walsh 2010-13 Tom Dawe 2014-17 George Murray 2019-current Mary Dalton

Poetry to the People Since being named the City’s Poet Laureate in January 2019, Mary Dalton has been working steadily to make poetry more accessible to the people of St. John’s.

On World Poetry Day in March 2019, Dalton brought together eleven local poets at the City’s Welcome Centre on Water Street for a gala reading, Cornucopia, supported by law firm Cox & Palmer and featuring poets and poetry. A month later she facilitated poetry readings at City Council meetings for National Poetry Month in April 2019.

In June 2019 Dalton launched a poetry podcast titled Flahoolic.

Produced by community radio station 93.5 CHMR-FM, Flahoolic features poetry readings and discussion by Mary Dalton, as well as the occasional poem by other poets.

Search Flahoolic on your favourite podcast app to find both

riddles, posted on the City’s website and social media feeds, with a challenge to submit their answers for a chance to win a copy of The Breakwater Book of Contemporary Newfoundland Poetry.

seasons, the second of which is rolling out now.

In early March 2020, Dalton gave Memorial University’s 2020 Pratt Lecture on “The Vernacular Strain in Newfoundland Poetry” to a packed house at the LSPU Hall.

In April 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mary remained focused on sharing poetry in celebration of National Poetry Month while creating a fun and challenging distraction for citizens. “Riddle Me This” contained 10 of Dalton’s

“Riddles are a form of interactive poetry—the reader completes the poem by guessing the object or phenomenon which has been given voice in the poem,” says Mary. “The riddle has long been a vital element of Newfoundland culture; the form powerfully evokes past times of coming together, when, with the hard work of fishing and farming done, people beguiled the winter season with stories, songs and riddles.”

“Riddles seem a particularly apt form for now, as we look for connection in all the ways we safely can.”

Photo by Roger Maunder, Up Sky Down Films

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Are you a newcomer to St. John’s?

Looking for Employment Services?

Check out

MyNewStJohns.ca

W O N K O GET T !

S ’ N H ST. JO SÀ

Z-VOU E N E R JEAN! APP T N I A TRE S I A N N CO

City of St. John’s Welcome Centre

Continues to serve businesses, tourists and newcomers Business 576-8107 business@stjohns.ca @EconDevStJohns 32

CITY GUIDE | FALL 2020

Tourists 576-8107 1-844-570-2009 tourism@stjohns.ca

Newcomers immigration@stjohns.ca @StJohnsLIP

Youth Perspectives Matter

By Melissa Berkshire Like many young people from rural Newfoundland and Labrador, I moved to “town” after graduating high school.

Once my degree from Memorial University was complete, I was fortunate to find a rewarding career in St. John’s and I’ve continued to live and work here since.

Even though I’d been a resident of St. John’s for nearly a decade, I hadn’t given much thought to how I might be able to influence the projects and developments being considered by our City Council or why I should.

It’s time for youth to step up and change that, and it’s starting!

Recently almost 900 young people completed a survey on youth engagement and the data is being used to make recommendations that can improve the experience of youth involved in City matters.

Without youth input it’s difficult, if not impossible, for City Council to make decisions aligned with what we the youth want to see for the future.

In 2019 I saw an open call to join the City’s Youth Engagement Action Team (YEAT) and I was happy to be one of the 15 people, aged 35 and under, selected.

From bike lanes and sidewalk snow clearing to green space and commercial developments, the decisions made by the City often directly impact our lives and our decisions to live here.

YEAT has been helping the City better understand young people’s experience and perceptions of civic engagement and how to make those opportunities more attractive and accessible.

It’s important to give feedback.

Whether you’ve been living in St. John’s for a few months, a few years, or your whole life, take the time to engage - it’s our town, too!

I was disappointed to learn that young people are the least engaged in our City’s decision-making process, as we have so much to gain by being actively involved.

Melissa lives in downtown St. John’s with her dog, Touton. She is a graduate of Memorial University’s Bachelor of Commerce Program and works in the home and community care sector.

Some ways youth can get involved: • Follow @CityofStJohns on social media (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube) for opportunities to provide input.

• Register at engagestjohns.ca to provide input on featured projects. Signing up means you will get notifications about upcoming projects that may impact you.

• Sign up for e-updates at stjohns.ca/eupdates and check the calendar of events stjohns.ca/calendar for engagement opportunities.

• Follow members of Council on social media (see p.2) as they often share and provide perspective on topics being discussed.

• Look for opportunities to put your name forward for a City committee that interests you.

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Ask a Vet

By Dr. Heather Hillier Veterinarian, City of St. John’s

During the course of your pet’s life they are bound to experience some diarrhea, commonly because they ate the wrong thing at the wrong time (like raiding the garbage once you’ve cleaned up from turkey dinner), but sometimes it can be a sign that something else is wrong.

What does pet diarrhea look like?

• Loose to watery stool with increased foul-smelling gas.

Humane Services 576-6126 humaneservices@stjohns.ca @HumaneServicesStJohns

If the diarrhea continues, when should I be concerned?

Consult your veterinarian if:

• Frequent episodes with urgency, this may lead to accidents in the house.

•

Your pet is under 6 months old. Younger dogs are more likely to dehydrate quickly or get infections or parasites.

What can I do at home if my pet has diarrhea?

•

The diarrhea lasts for more than 24 hours.

•

The stool has fresh blood or is black and tarry.

•

Your pet is straining with no production.

•

Your pet is also experiencing vomiting, weight loss, decreased energy, or loss of appetite.

• Let their belly settle by withholding food for 12-24 hours. Continue to offer small amounts of water frequently to prevent dehydration.

• Once the belly has settled, offer something bland and easy to digest - try plain white rice and boiled chicken breast - in small frequent meals.

Important

• Once bowel movements have returned to normal, slowly mix their regular food in with the chicken and rice.

Never use over the counter anti-diarrheal medication (like Pepto-Bismol or Immodium) intended for humans on your pets.

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Proper places for your pooch to play Using off-leash dog parks Running your dog on school grounds, sports fields, playgrounds and other fenced public areas intended for human recreation can pose a significant public health risk.

Even when owners pick up their dog’s feces the grass remains contaminated with fecal material (bacteria and parasites), and just a couple of dogs visiting the same field on a regular basis can contaminate an entire field in a short period of time. These fields are then

used by people who sit and play on the same contaminated grass. This is a concern, especially for children with developing immune systems.

The City of St. John’s has nine dog parks where you can exercise and socialize your dog off leash. Five are designated for small dogs weighing less than 25 pounds. The others are for any size dog; small dog owners should exercise judgement before putting their dog in one.

Find your nearest dog park

Quidi Vidi Lake, off The Boulevard.

Two parks: Small dogs & larger dogs

Running dogs off leash on ballfields and open City By-Laws #1488 spaces is prohibited under and #1514

Sable Chief Dog Park, McNiven Place Airport Heights.

85 Messenger Drive at Kenmount Terrace Community Centre.

Two parks: Small dogs & larger dogs

Humane Services, 81 Higgins Line.

For small dogs only Peter Murphy dog park Shea Heights, off Linegar Avenue by the ball field.

Mundy Pond off Blackler Avenue.

Bidgood Park, off Main Road in Goulds.

Two parks: Small dogs & larger dogs

Victoria Park, Near playground.

Two parks: Small dogs & larger dogs Waterford Valley, near the corner of Waterford Bridge Road and Brookfield Road.

Inset Map: Goulds

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Shared online about the Mall

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CITY GUIDE | FALL 2020

Walk on Water The Water Street Pedestrian Mall has been well attended and has been popular with residents, visitors and downtown businesses.

The goal of the mall was to encourage residents and visitors to see the downtown as a destination during summer, providing ample space for individuals to visit downtown businesses safely, enjoy the atmosphere and to, most importantly, shop local.

Many of the businesses bordering the Mall on Water Street, Duckworth Street and Harbour Drive also expanded their capacitywith patios to enjoy the summer sun, making it easy to take in all the Downtown has to offer.

As a new event that came together very quickly, Council has been exploring opportunities for improvement and working with local businesses and the Downtown St. John’s Business Improvement Area Association.

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Accessing Food in St. John’s

By Bruce Knox, City of St. John’s Sarah Crocker, Food First NL Many people link the food we eat to our own health and wellbeing.

This year, we went through the 8-day “Snowmageddon” State of Emergency and are now living through a global Public Health Emergency. These events caused stress on some resident’s ability to access food and food support programs.

These events also increased awareness of the difficulty some people have accessing food. This year, research showed that 1 in 6 households experienced food insecurity. This means they could not get the food they needed to lead an active and healthy life.

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Food First NL and the St. John’s Food Policy Council have been working with The City of St. John’s to address food issues. One upcoming project of Food First NL is to conduct a Food Assessment.

For nearly a decade, Food First NL has successfully supported Community-Led Food Assessments in several communities in our province. This work has created new and enhanced food security programs, and has generated interest, and action on food issues.

This project is unique because discussion and decision making will happen by community members. People understand their community’s strengths and know

where things need to improve, and they are best equipped to develop solutions that will work locally.

The Food Assessment will raise the profile of food issues in St. John’s. Input from the community will allow residents, organizations and the City to create a roadmap of activities and strategies to ensure access to healthy food.

This project is supported by the City of St. John’s and aligns with the work of the Healthy City Strategy. The food assessment is one of the many projects that take place in our neighbourhoods and supports one of the key areas of the Healthy City Strategy, ‘Access to Food’.

The Healthy City Strategy will be the City’s long-term plan to improve health in the neighborhoods that make up our city.

Access to food plays such an important role in the health of people and the health of our community. The Food Assessment, will provide the City with activities that will inform the Healthy City Strategy and create meaningful changes in our local food environment. Look for ways to get involved this fall and share your vision for a healthy city!

For more information on how to get involved in the St. John’s Food Assessment, contact: Sarah Crocker, Program Coordinator, Food First NL sarahcrocker@foodfirstnl.ca or visit www.foodstjohns.ca Healthy Communities, City of St. John’s healthycommunities@stjohns.ca

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Opening the right door can change your life The City’s Non Profit Housing Division has one to four bedroom units available to rent for those on a tight budget. These units are comfortable and well maintained.

A great home may be just a call away.

Contact us or complete an application: 576-8196 housing@stjohns.ca Online at stjohns.ca f Living in St. Johns f City Services f Non Profit Housing