Around the Block Issue 62

Issue 62 December 2018 / January 2019 sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com where we celebrate the good news from our communities in Saint John NB

Holiday Traditions

by Wendy Coughlin, Danells Drive Over several years many of us have attended the Annual Seniors Christmas Party / Dance at Lily Lake. We are fortunate that this event is provided to us by the Department of Social Development and the City of Saint John. Music was provided by Delbert Worden, with guests: Debbie Harriety, Danny Joyce and the Crescent Valley Choir. There was a special visit from Santa and an unexpected appearance by Elvis. Food and beverages were provided, thanks to those who contributed and volunteered.

Lots of fun for all who attended! Looking forward to the next year’s festive occasion. (all photo’s by Debbie McLeod)

Proud Sponsors of Around The Block

Coordinator’s Comments Juanita Black, 647- 4850, sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com Welcome to issue 62 of Around the Block and our annual Holiday Traditions theme, as we celebrate with the wonderful stories and pictures sent from our communities and partners.

As we relax with our families during this holiday season, let us think of the people who need our help, not only during this time, but all year long. Try the pay it forward program, by giving a free coffee to a stranger, taking though jackets that have sitting in your closet to Romero House on Brunswick Drive or the Outflow Shelter, on Waterloo Street. At the building I work, The HUB 139 Prince Edward Street our Stone Soup Café will sell you a token, they have them for coffee and lunch, another way to pay it forward. A little act of kindness goes a long way.

Take care, be happy and safe.

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Donations for Christmas

Christmas tree lighting

by Christa Petts Community Coordinator NNCC Every Year one of our biggest events is the Christmas Tree Lighting.

Trevor Holder donates our beautiful tree every year. Trevor also lights our tree as to officially start our Christmas celebrations.

Our children make ornaments out of seed to put on the tree. It is truly a magical time for us at ONE Change.

November 30, at 6 p.m. was our lighting. We hope everyone helped celebrate with us at Victoria Park and we will return to the centre for hot chocolate and Christmas carols sung by the KV Country Band

Derek and Florence Willigar (photo by Peter Lege)

by Barry Galloway, Executive Director ONE Change Florence Willigar is a long-time volunteer and friend of ONE. She and Bernie, her husband and Derek, their son volunteer regularly with us and help in whatever way we need them. Great Community members and leaders!

Each year Florence knits for us. All year long she knits with wool that people have given to her and sometimes the end of a ball of wool or left overs from various knitting projects. Florence turns nothing away and creates wonderful homemade knitted hats and mitts for the kids at our centre. Every year she comes to see me with a box of things in November.

Holiday traditions

Zoe’s Christmas crafts Picture is of the Christmas pagent 2017 (photo by Christa Petts)

by Julia Cool, Executive Assistant Throughout December, families have holiday traditions to get them into the holiday spirit. Whether it is baking special treats, watching holiday movies or getting together with friends and family, we all have events that make the holiday season special to us.

In my family, we would snowshoe into the woods to find our perfect Christmas tree. That night while we decorated the tree, we would always take the time to remember those family members that were no longer with us. We would share stories and memories to keep their spirit with us throughout the holidays.

Knights of Columbus Tradition

Youth busy working on their Christmas crafts (photo by Christa Petts)

by Christa Petts, Community Coordinator Every Year we are given special gifts from the Knights of Columbus. They bring us beautiful warm winter coats for our children. The Knights of Columbus have become a part of our family here at Christmas! We look forward to their generous donations. A big Thanks from our neighbourhood for all you do.

We are so appreciative left - right Emery Richard, Barry because winter coats and Galloway and Paul Cottreau boots are a huge need here for (photo by Christa Petts) our kids. Making sure kids are warm this time of year wouldn’t be possible without your help. Thanks to all who give to make Christmas a better time for all.

by Zoe Ritchie This holiday season the ONE space will celebrate the holidays by indulging in the joy of making! The most thoughtful and valuable gifts are handmade, so evening program participants are encouraged to work on gifts and ornaments for their families and friends.

The after-school program participants will learn electronics and how to make light-up Christmas ornaments and secret message Christmas cards. The secret message Christmas card will be a paper circuit, with a built-in UV light to decode the message. No circuit board required!

ONE space manager Zoe Ritchie wishes you all a happy (and creative) holiday season.

North Neighbourhood Contact Christa Petts christa.onec@gmail Nick Nicolle Community Centre 85 Durham Street 658-2980 Page 2

Family literacy night, a holiday tradition at SJB / KES

p.u.l.s.e. tree lighting

By Ben Gillcrist, Community Schools Coordinator. St. John the Baptist/King Edward School Our Clipper Community is a fortunate one, blessed with so many considerate and caring partners, friends, and well-wishers. The positive tone of this group is manifested in the many ways they find to help both our school and the broader community. Our staff is no exception. Every year ahead of Christmas, they light off the holidays with a themed ‘Family Literacy Night’ that gets everyone thinking warmly about the special up-coming season.

Stories of Santa, Christmas crafts, and activities highlighting the diversity of our school community are all represented in a wonderful evening of fun and camaraderie for families and staff alike! This year we’re all set to go on December 6th. A night to remember. A night to stand alongside our many Christmas nights past!

TENTATIVE DATE!!

WHEN: WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 19 @ 6 PM WHERE: PULSE BUILDING 251 WENTWORTH JOIN US FOR CAROLLING THROUGH THE SOUTH END, COOKIES AND HOT CHOCOLATE WILL BE SERVED BACK AT PULSE!!

Comings and goings at P.U.L.S.E. Don’t forget to pick up your heating rebate forms at P.U.L.S.E. starting January 7th.

PLEASE WATCH OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPDATES !!

Registered Nurse Kathy London-Anthony will be at P.U.L.S.E. to address your health needs on Friday, January 4th and February 1st, 12-2 p.m.

Please remember our monthly Food Purchase Club Money is due December 14th and comes back to you the following Friday. We have $15 and $25 orders available. We even have a Pay it Forward option where you can provide a single person, a couple or a family with fresh fruits and vegetables! Please call ahead for office hours.

We are always looking for volunteers. Come in and talk to us and see what you can do to help out your neighbourhood.

Community Police Christmas tips Community Police have Christmas tips to consider when purchasing Online

by SGT. David Hartley-Brown, Saint John Police Force, Online shopping • Beware of the “a good deal” scams.

Things are not always what they appear to be.

• Before surfing the internet, secure your personal computers by updating security software.

• Keep your personal information private and your passwords secure.

• When ordering on-line use a credit card instead of a debit card. It is much easier to cancel a credit card if an account number is illegally obtained.

• Be cautious of emails claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders. Always run a virus scan on attachment before opening.

• Always compare the link in the email to the web address link you are directed to and determine if they match.

• Log on directly to the official Web site for the business identified in the email, instead of “linking” to it from an unsolicited e-mail.

If the email appears to be from your bank, credit card issuer, or other company you deal with frequently, your statements or official correspondence from the business will provide the proper contact information.

Cst. Duane Squires can be reached at 977-1733 or duane.squires@ saintjohn.ca.

PLEASE WATCH OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR HOURS THAT WE ARE OPEN DURING THE WEEK! WE WILL RESUME NORMAL HOURS IN THE NEW YEAR.

MLA Gerry Lowe

South Neighbourhood Contact

MLA Lowe is in the process of setting up his Constituency office at the Mall - 100 Prince Edward Street. His phone should be hooked up by the 5th of December.

MLA Lowe will be in his office on Mondays to meet residents, and then going to, the Lower South, the Lower West and OLD North end to meet residents who cannot get to his office.Once his office is open, Wayne Melvin will be the off manager on site.

Mary LeSage pulseinc@bellaliant.com 251 Wentworth Street 632-6807 Page 3

Crescent Valley celebrates

Christmas Tradition for CFUW SJ

by Ann Barrett The Saint John Club of CFUW (Canadian Federation of University Women) has made it a Christmas tradition to donate to the Crescent Valley Resource Centre.

front row left – right, from HWSF; Amelia, Brooklyn, Logan and Sherin. Back row left – right from CVRC; Olivia Clancy, Anne Driscoll, Justin Shepard, Ann Barrett (Photo by Crescent Valley Resource Centre)

by Justin Shepard, Community Coordinator Hazen White/St. Francis School held a “CV Celebration” event to recognize all the great things about Crescent Valley. Below are some things the kids of Hazen white had to say about Crescent Valley and the people who live and work there.

“My neighbours are really kind and sweet. At Christmas our neighbours give us presents. When I first moved, they helped me a lot and they were my friends so fast. Thank you so much Crescent Valley.” - Sherin Ali

This is the eighth year they have presented them with hats, mitts, scarfs, pajamas, socks, winter jackets and over $200 to help with their Christmas celebration. CFUW is a National & International organization that believes women working together can ensure that all girls and women can have equal opportunities and access to quality CFUW SJ Donations received by Anne education within a peaceful Driscoll , Executive Director and secure environment (Photo by Ann Barrett) where their human rights are respected. All women are eligible to join.

For more information visit www.cfuw.org

The History of the Christmas Tree

“I like Crescent Valley because at Christmas time, they have a big party with presents and stuffed animals.” - Amelia Macfarlane “The people who work in Crescent Valley are sweet, nice and helpful.

During the Christmas holidays, I shovel walkways and I hang out with Justin, Joy and Anne who work at the Crescent Valley Resource Centre.” - Logan Nyers “When you live in Crescent Valley someone will always be there for you.” - Brooklyn Jarvis

by Nadhim Mansoor Community Engagement Coordinator Did you know that the tradition of decorating trees at Christmas is a Babylonian tradition?

The Babylonians used to decorate trees on the Babylonian New Year. They used palm trees, cypress trees and some other trees.

It represented the advent of time, where renewed happiness was accompanied by music, dance, religious ceremonies and other games.This tradition moved from Babylon to the Greeks after the campaign of Alexander the Macedonian over the country of the East and especially after his entry into Babylon, and moved from the Greeks to the Romans and then to the rest of Europe.

Source: Mesopotamian civilization (K.Vativ, A. Sazonov).

Crescent Valley Neighbourhood Contact Anne Driscoll CVRC.driscoll@gmail.com 130 MacLaren Blvd.

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The CCC is a happening place in December

Jaime Worden joins CCC staff

by Krista Creamer, Executive Director CCC We are happy to announce that we have a new employee joining the Carleton Community Centre (CCC) staff. Starting December 3rd, Jaime Worden will be our new front desk receptionist. Since moving to Saint John, Jaime has been involved with numerous organizations.

She has helped facilitate programs that helped residents in the priority neighbourhoods. She has raised funds for neighbourhood projects and has established meaningful relationships with members of the community and organizations that support them. Jaime is excited to continue her involvement within the community with her new role at the Carleton Community Centre.

guests enjoying a hot meal .

by Krista Creamer Executive Director CCC Lots of fun things are happening at the Carleton Community Centre (CCC) this December. We will be hosting a family turkey dinner, (date to be announced). This will be a great community event where people can come in from the cold and enjoy a lovely dinner with friends and family.

Calling all teens

Calling all teens 12-18 years of age. We have an amazing new FREE program starting in January. Lorraine Peters, owner of NWH Modelling and Self Improvement, is running an 8 week program at the Carleton Community Centre. It will take place every Monday from 4 -- 5 p.m. starting January 7th.

We will also be having a kids Christmas party which will include, hot chocolate, candy canes, Christmas crafts, and so much more. We are looking forward to celebrating the Holidays with our community.

This program will focus on self-esteem, fashion, being positive, and how to present your best self. Healthy snacks will be provided. Space is limited so please call 607-2927 to sign up.

Kids Programs at the CCC

We offer a daily after school program at the Carelton Community Centre (CCC) which takes place from 2:45 - 4:45 p.m. All kids between the ages of 5 -12 are welcome. This is a free program where the kids can have fun and be supervised at the same time.

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Monday - We offer an art program every Monday. Activities include painting, drawing, sculpting, and seasonal crafts. Our ball hockey program also takes place on Monday nights and all equipment is provided.

Tuesday - Tuesday nights are game nights in the gym. We play a variety of gym games, and sports.

Wednesday- Ball hockey is so popular at the Carleton that we do it again on Wednesday night.

Thursday - Our cooking program takes place every Thursday. The kids really enjoy cooking, and eating, the creations they make.

Friday - Our most popular program takes place on Friday nightsour dance party. Come join in the fun and celebrate the end of the school week. The dance is from 7- 9 p.m. but anyone over the age of 10 can stay until 10 p.m.

Saturday - We offer a free kid’s breakfast on Saturday mornings starting at 9:30 a.m. Then the kids are free to stay and play!

All our programs are free of charge. Our nighttime programs run from 6 – 8 p.m. everything is provided for all our programs. Please call 6582920 if you have any questions regarding our programming.

Market Place Wellness updates Market Place Wellness Centre, Carleton Community Centre

674-4335, 120 Market Place - Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m-3:30 p.m.

• Specimen Collection: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. by appointment only. 648-6681 #3.

• Food Bank: Winter hours start September 4th Tuesdays and Fridays 1- 3 p.m.

• Smoking Cessation Program: Call 674-4335 for an appointment.

• Free Health Coach Services: Call Lesley, 608-6498.

• Free Gentle Path Counselling Services: Call 652-7284, press 0, and say “West.”

• New Produce Packs: $10 each. Call 658-2920 or 674-4307.

• Social Development Case worker: on site Tuesdays 1- 3 p.m. or by appointment.

• Senior-led fitness program / Falls Prevention: ages 50 and up, “Zoomers”. Free. Tuesdays 10 a.m. and Fridays 11 a.m. All participants must be have an initial assessment. Call 674-4335.

• Pickle Ball: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, Contact Mike, 672-9566.

• Line Dancing: Mondays 10 a.m. $6 fee applies.

• Community Garden Plots: Registration in 2019.

• Social Worker / Dietitian / Counselling: by appointment.

Call 674-4335.

• Art Class: Starting fall 2018. By donation.

• Yoga: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m. $6.00 fee

Dorothy Shephard MLA Saint John Lancaster

West Neighbourhood Contacts Jill Roberts Jill.Roberts@HorizonNB.ca 120 Market Place 674-4307 or

640 Manawagonish Road Saint John, NB E2M 3W5 Constituency Office is located at side of building facing Church

Krista Creamer KRISTA@carletoncommunitycentre.ca.

82 Market Place 658-2920

Tel: (506) 643-2900 Fax: (506) 643-2999 Dorothy.Shephard@gnb.ca www.gnb.ca

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Sophia Recovery Centre – 10 Years of Support The Salvation Army Helping Women Find Recovery

Making friends with the seniors

Sophia Recovery Centre is a local non-profit and registered charity located in uptown Saint John. They offer free peer-based support, services and programs for women in recovery from addictions and have assisted hundreds of women with their journey to wellness.

To raise funds, Sophia is selling tickets on an amazing draw for a trip for two to Toronto including airfare, accommodations, an NHL hockey game, and the musical ‘Come From Away’. The draw takes place January 4, 2019 with travel on February 21-24, 2019.

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the Centre and throughout Saint John during December. Call 633-8783 for more details. This is a draw not to be missed!

taking a break after a hard afternoon of cooking

by Debbie McLeod, Housing Coordinator The S.K.I.P. Program, (Seniors and Kids, Intergenerational Program), meets monthly at the Brunswick Drive High Rise. Grade 3 children from P.E.S (Princess Elizabeth School) come by bus to do an activity with the seniors living at Brunswick Drive. Last week they made gingerbread houses and decorated gingerbread cookies together.

Importance of traditions for families

Next month the children will be back to enjoy a Christmas Party with the seniors which will include bingo with prizes and some healthy treats! This program has been very successful and it's so nice to see relationships forming between the seniors and the children.

Thank You to PES School for being an awesome partner!!

Holiday family fun

by Jennifer Fulton

Are you looking for a new holiday tradition for your family to enjoy?

Here are our top 10 favorite holiday traditions…

1.Enjoy a holiday movie/cartoon.

2.Decorate a gingerbread house.

3.Have fun in the snow. Make a snowman or have a snowball fight!

4.Try a winter sport – skating, snowshoeing, skiing, and sledding.

by Jennifer Fulton, Director of Community Programs Everyone can think of a holiday tradition which holds a special place in their heart. Whether new or old, traditions tend to create excitement and anticipation, especially for kids. Traditions are important; they are a way for families to bond, year after year, creating happy memories, a family identity, stability and consistency.

These are the building blocks of a strong family connection, all of which are essential for children to grow and develop into healthy, happy adults.

5.Decorate your home for the holidays as a family.

6.Check out holiday light displays.

7.Count down the days with an advent calendar.

8.Make holiday cards, decorations or crafts.

9.Wear matching family holiday PJ’s.

The Boys & Girls Club of Saint John hopes all families take time to relax, connect and enjoy the company of one another this holiday season!

10.Sing holiday songs.

Waterloo-Village

Neighbourhood Contact Penni Eisenhauer commorg.penni@gmail.com Saint John Learning Exchange 139 Prince Edward Street 647-8047 Page 6

Partnering from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and Beyond • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Partnerships Volunteering Mentoring Role Models Coaching Focus on Literacy Having Fun Tutoring Breakfast/Lunch Programs New Opportunities After School Programs Career Exploration Making a Difference

Deborah Fisher fisher.deborah@jdirving.com

Partnering from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and Beyond • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Partnerships Volunteering Mentoring Role Models Coaching Focus on Literacy Having Fun Tutoring Breakfast/Lunch Programs New Opportunities After School Programs Career Exploration Making a Difference

Deborah Fisher fisher.deborah@jdirving.com Susan Tipper tipper.susan@jdirving.com

We ALL have something to offer!

Partnering from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and Beyond • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Partnerships Volunteering Mentoring Role Models Coaching Focus on Literacy Having Fun Tutoring Breakfast/Lunch Programs New Opportunities After School Programs Career Exploration Making a Difference

Deborah Fisher fisher.deborah@jdirving.com Susan Tipper tipper.susan@jdirving.com

We ALL have something to offer!

Partnering from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and Beyond • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Partnerships Volunteering Mentoring Role Models Coaching Focus on Literacy Having Fun Tutoring Breakfast/Lunch Programs New Opportunities After School Programs Career Exploration Making a Difference

Deborah Fisher fisher.deborah@jdirving.com Susan Tipper tipper.susan@jdirving.com

We ALL have something to offer!

Susan Tipper tipper.susan@jdirving.com

We ALL have something to offer!

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A TREE TRIMMING TRADITION!

by Abby Nice, Community School Coordinator, Prince Charles School I have been a Community School Coordinator at Prince Charles School for 6 years now, but the tree trimming tradition began many years before me with our original PALS partners at J. D. Irving, Limited. Even before 2004, it has been a tradition for students from Prince Charles School to decorate the JDI tree every year for all staff to see and enjoy.

2008

Students and staff pick a different theme each year and then each class will make and decorate an ornament that will then be hung on the tree. We have had many themes over the years… Stars, Canadian, Blue and White … the list goes on!

2009

A group of students are then selected to visit 300 Union St. to trim the tree with all the decorations with the help of many JDI volunteers. To end the wonderful morning, students and staff celebrate their hard work with Peter’s homemade cookies and Brian’s hot chocolate made right in the JDI kitchen! I think we can say that is everyone’s favourite part of the tradition! This tradition is a PCS and a JDI favourite!

All photos courtesy of PALS

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Sea Belles season concerts

Bridge to a brighter future

• Event: Sea Belles A Cappella Chorus FREE Holiday Performance Day: Saturday, December 15, Time: 1 - 2 p.m. Description: Stop by and get into the Christmas spirit with Sea Belles' holiday a cappella harmonies, while you work on your shopping list! Location: Brunswick Square.

• Event: Sea Belles A Cappella Chorus on stage with Tomato Tomato Christmas Show Date: Thursday, December 20, Time: 7:30 p.m. 6 p.m. Description: You don’t want to miss this local sensation and their annual Christmas special right here in the heart of Saint John! Sea Belles Chorus might just pop up for a number or two!

Location: Imperial Theatre, 12 King Street S., Contact:Tickets can be purchased at: www.imperialtheatre.ca • Event: Sea Belles A Cappella Chorus FREE Holiday Performance Day: Saturday, December 22, Time: 2-3 p.m. Description: One last afternoon of Sea Belles Chorus A Cappella Christmas carols to keep you in the spirit while you cross off those last minute items on your list!! Location: Brunswick Square.

by Tanya James, Community Connector, North End Wellness Centre The Bridge to a Brighter Future helps parents and their families be successful. We want to help you create a plan leading to a job that pays enough to support your family and set aside savings. You will work one-on-one with Tanya, a community coach, to set and achieve your goals. You may be eligible if you: • Are a parent with children under 18 • Are determined to earn a wage that supports your family • Have an income lower than $20,000 • Live in the North End of Saint John

Beginner Yoga at St. Luke’s Church

On behalf of the Saint John Kiwanis

Contact Tanya James, North End Community Connector at 651-2705 or new.connector@gmail.com

by: Linda Jarvis Past President Kiwanis Club of Saint John

Tanya James, the North End Community Connector and yoga enthusiast, hosts a beginner’s yoga class every Monday at 11 a.m. at St. Luke’s Church, 369 Main Street. It is free and mats are provided. All bodies and abilities are welcome. It truly is an activity for all. Come anytime up to our last class of the year, December 17th for a break from holiday stress.

May your Christmas sparkle with moments of love, laughter and goodwill.And may the year ahead be full of contentment and joy.

Have a Merry Christmas and we look forward to seeing you in 2019.

Thank you for all your support for the Kiwanis Club of Saint John by purchasing our Kiwanis Cash Calendar for 2019. The money from the sale of our calendar goes to support local groups in the Greater Saint John Area.

We will be back to start the New Year on January 7th. For more information please call Tanya at 651-2705.

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Christmas Angels

Plus de ressources francophones pour les familles de la région

The tree and gifts are all ready, just waiting for the guests by: T Roy Christmas always brings out the joy and happiness in people, especially children. It’s a time when we reflect on love and appreciation.

This year the Anglin Drive Tenants Association has been blessed by the angels that live at Shannex Parkland Retirement Living in Saint John. With their generous donations we are hoping that each child in our neighbourhood will receive a new pair of pajamas from Santa at our Annual Neighbourhood Christmas Party.

We would also like to extend a warm thank you to Cheryl Brown, Quality Learning NB for donating a Christmas storybook to each child. A special thank you to all who donated and have offered to volunteer their time to help our children.

Jonathan Poirier, Agent des communications et relations publiques L’ARCf et le Médisanté ont procédé au lancement officiel de la nouvelle trousse d’information des Services de la petite enfance du grand Saint-Jean en plus d’avoir organisé une table ronde des champions en santé mentale.

Près de 200 trousses ont été distribuées aux 35 représentants d’organismes et intervenants qui sont venus partager leurs expertises lors de cet événement double. Ces trousses seront utilisées dans leurs milieux de travail afin de guider les familles francophones vers les bons services dans leur langue.

Lors de la table ronde, les besoins en matière de santé mentale en français de la communauté francophone du grand Saint-Jean ainsi que les ressources déjà disponibles ont été identifiés. Le but de l’exercice était de dresser la liste des besoins dans la région et de chercher des pistes pour des solutions.

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Sharps In the Community

Volunteer and open the door to new opportunities

Erin Kelly a member of the committee (photo by Debbie McLeod)

Top left are; Kelsey Thompson and Nelcy Aragon, top right Terence Chandra and bottom left standing Steve Owens. (photo by Emily MacMackin)

by Diane Kerns, Harm Reduction Program Coordinator, Avenue B Harm Reduction Inc. There has been an increase in the number of used syringes found in the community over the past few years. A committee was formed last year inviting a wide variety of people and organizations to start talking about a harm reduction approach that could help in some way.

It was decided that having Sharps boxes in communities would provide a safe place for people to place used syringes. Donations were secured, metal boxes and sharps containers were ordered, posters and stickers printed and finally, after many months, the boxes were installed. They are located on Waterloo Street, Coburg Street, Victoria Park, Rainbow Park and ONE Change. Already, people have been using the boxes rather than discarding used needles on the street, in parks and other public places.

by Emily MacMackin, Communications Specialist at the Saint John Newcomers Centre Volunteers are the cornerstone of many community organizations.

They are unique individuals with a desire to connect, learn, grow and share.Join our dedicated team of volunteer English and French teachers who work directly with newcomers teaching them local language skills such as Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced English and French; Career Language; and Listening Skills. The Saint John Newcomers Centre is looking for volunteer teachers with an aspiration for teaching and the desire to help others grow and prosper in our growing community in Greater Saint John.

If you are interested in volunteer teaching beginner, intermediate, advanced French please contact: Emmanuelle Wingfield, Newcomer Settlement Advisor (Francophone) emmanuelle.wingfield@ sjnewcomers.ca

This is a first step. Information is being gathered and will then be used to advocate for more or larger boxes if needed. Sharps have already begun making our communities safer for all.

If you are interested in volunteer teaching beginner, intermediate, advanced English please contact: Lina Gharbiya, Newcomer Settlement Advisor (Anglophone), lina.gharbiya@sjnewcomers.ca

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The Fundy Wellness Network Invites You to “Warm Up to Winterfest” Come celebrate the new year with us by attending this FREE community wellness event for the whole family. Join us for the Kick Off to Winterfest at Market Square happening on Sunday January 27th from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. There will be wellness booths, main stage enterntainment, interactive games, healthy snacks and prizes! Don’t miss out!

For more information on Warm up to Winterfest and Winterfest events happening in your community, visit the Fundy Wellness Network Facebook page: @fwn.rmef

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Sea Dogs teddy bear toss

by Juanita Black Every year around the end of November, or the first of December the Saint John Sea Dogs hold a Teddy Bear Toss night, this year it was Friday December 1st. Through the coordination of Andree Stephen Game Day and Community Manager Saint John Sea Dogs, Marie Sly, Saint John Hyundai and me, Juanita Black, Human Development Council, the planning all comes together.

Crescent Valley’s craft and bake sale The annual craft and bake sale was real busy on Sturday December 1st, with a room full of folks ready to sell their goods. Here are some pictures from the day.

After the Sea Dogs score their first goal, the fans are encouraged to throw new or loved teddy bears on the ice. The Hyundai volunteers full their cars with the teddy bears, all shapes and sizes, and take them to waiting volunteers from the Crescent Valley Community Tenants Association, where the bears are packed for community groups in the five priority neighbourhood. By Saturday mid afternoon all the groups have picked up their bears just in time for their community Christmas parties.

Thank you Sea Dogs fans for approximately 1000 bears and a lot of smiles on local children faces for the holiday season.

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Poverty 101: looking for answers, a new resource

Why I love Hanukkah

by Cathy Wright FACTS. MYTHS. STORIES. ACTIONS UNDERSTANDING POVERTY This resource is for anyone wanting to learn more about poverty issues in Saint John, whether you are working, volunteering (board members, mentors or those involved in the community in other ways) or studying in areas related to poverty reduction.

View online at www.livingsj.ca For more information contact Donna Gates at 977-0087 or donnagates@livingsj.com POVERTY 101: LOOKING FOR ANSWERS also provides direct links to many local services, government departments and other resources working to reduce poverty.

This resource is a starting point. It describes the impact of poverty on individuals and families, the urgency for our community and the actions that are changing lives.

by John (Yehonatan) Vinizer Hanukkah is a holiday celebrated during December. This is my favourite holiday because in our family we have a custom to give gifts every evening after the candle lighting of the menorah, which means eight days of presents.

We eat jelly doughnuts and hashbrowns - the deep fried food represents the miracle that happened (the oil in the temple lasted eight days instead of one). We play together with the dreidel, it brings everyone together by the fireplace and the winner gets all the chocolate coins. We also get Hanukkah gelt, which means money from our family members. Hanukkah combines all the best things in life – family, good food, gifts and money. Hanukkah is a perfect holiday in my opinion!

Thank you Paulette Hicks

Saint John Energy sponsors ATB

left – right Donna Gates, ED Living SJ, Paulette Hicks and Co-Chair David Alston. (photo by Wendy MacDermott)

by Donna Gates, Executive Director, Living SJ The Living SJ network celebrates and thanks Paulette Hicks for her leadership as our Co-Chair. Paulette was instrumental in building the poverty reduction and collaboration strategy during the last four years.

We are grateful as she will continue to be a valued member of our Leadership Team.

left to right are, Councillor John MacKenzie and Board member Saint John Energy, Juanita Black, Coordinator ATB and Jessica DeLong Saint John Energy Communications and Executive Support

Saint John Energy recently presented Around the Block (ATB) with a $500. sponsorship cheque. Saint John Energy is a strong supporter of Around the Block as they also sponsor the food purchase contest.

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Wrapping gifts for the holidays

Back after 30 years

pictured is Theresa Cosman (photo by Wendell Dryden)

Pictured is Diane Borgerson (photo by Laurie Collins)

by Rhoda J Welshman, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator Make a list, check it twice and we’ll wrap it up. Big Brothers Big Sisters is here to help with your checklist chaos! After searching for all the perfect gifts, give yourself a break! Drop your bags off at our Holiday Gift Wrapping Station located on the 2nd level of Brunswick Square, December 10th, 11a.m.- 6 p.m.up until December 24th. On December 24th, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Friendly volunteers will crease, wrap and ribbon your gifts while you’re at work or kicking your feet up to have a hot cocoa. This service will be offered by donation, with all proceeds going to directly to Big Brothers Big Sisters programming. If you love wrapping and are interested in getting into the spirit sign up to volunteer, call 6351145 or Laurie.Collins@BigBrothersBigSisters.ca

by Theresa Cosman, resident of the Old North End Want to do something fun? I've started going to an upgrading class for adults. It was scary, but I took a chance because I wanted to learn new ways of writing. After I started, I decided to also work on math.

I am really enjoying it. I have access to materials I didn't have. I can concentrate without interruption. There is an instructor to help. I am getting closer to my goals.

Classes for adults means just that - a place where adults learn and get out of it what they put into it.

Christmas in Tanzania

by Kay Kanyandula Growing up Roman Catholic, our celebrations always started on Christmas Eve. As children, we would dress up for midnight mass.

The girls wore their best pink and white dresses with lace gloves, boys wore three-piece suits and our parents wore traditional clothing.

The women would be walking around in elaborate head wraps.

The real fun was when our extended family would come over. We would buy a goat and my dad and uncle would have spent days marinating and getting it eady for Christmas Day. Some families would go to the beach by the Indian Ocean and barbecue. Christmas was less about gift giving and more about spending time with cousins and playing, as my parents cooked under the beautiful African sun. At the end of the day, we’d all sit in the garden shaded by palm trees as we ate and listened to grandmother tell stories.

All you want to do is get some exercise and take care of life while you’re at it.. So you take a walk to the grocery store, but….

SORE HIP + GRAVITY X WORN OUT SHOES =

BIG PAIN! Need a better alignment? Our Biomechanical team can tune your gait and provide appropriate footwear so that you can swing back into action. Get back to life with less pain. .

Thera-Ped Foot and Ankle Clinic 238 Metcalf St.

By Appointment: 632-9397 www.thera-ped.com / blog.thera-ped.com / facebook.com/thera-ped

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NaviCare/SoinsNavi

E Fry helps women at Nova Institution

NaviCare/SoinsNavi is a bilingual navigation centre for children and youth 25 years of age or younger with complex care needs in NB. NaviCare/SoinsNavi provides a free personalized service that can be used by anyone, including youth, family members, and those involved in the care of children and youth with complex care needs (e.g. health care providers, teachers).

Preparing gifts for a visit to the Nova Institution for Women

by Judy Murphy, Executive Director, Elizabeth Fry Society of Saint John Holidays can invite us to feel many emotions - hope, excitement, joy, but also stress, regret, sadness, loneliness and depression. It can be an especially challenging time for those who have no choice of being with family and friends. There will be approximately 80 women in the federal facility, Nova Institution for Women, in Truro, NS, who will not be home for the holidays; many of whom will not be having family visits because of travel costs to reach Nova or even phone calls because of the expense.

Complex care needs can be anything, including but not limited to a chronic condition, mental health, a physical disability, or an intellectual disability. Our Patient Navigators can assist an individual and their family with a variety of needs from helping them complete complicated applications for programs or funding opportunities; to providing and finding supports for when you or your family are feeling overwhelmed.

For more information: 1-888-641-1977 or www.navicarenb.ca

The Elizabeth Fry Society of Saint John along with its sister organizations in Cape Breton and Mainland NS join together to personally select, purchase and deliver gifts to each woman in Nova.

It is our little way to say we care, we remember you, we celebrate you, we see and hear you, we love you. The three Atlantic area E Frys also host regular gatherings, a social and connecting time, at Nova to share stories, food, and friendship.

Season’s S ’ Greetings G ti and Best Wishes for a Happy New Year!

MP WAYNE LONG SAINT JOHN - ROTHESAY

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ACAP Saint John’s Tips for a “Green” Christmas

#RocketDay2018 in Saint John!

pictures from Brilliant Labs events (photo by Hojun Lee and Irene Lee )

by Brilliant Labs Brilliant Labs celebrated its coding and tech camps by launching model and pop bottle rockets at the first-ever Rocket Day across Atlantic Canada on August 8th. In Saint John, over 175 children from Nick Nicolle Community Centre, Teen Resource Centre, and the City of Saint John Summer Playground Program came together to launch rockets at Shamrock Park, and join Mayor Don Darling as he issued an official Rocket Day Proclamation inspiring young people to "Follow your dreams and aim high!”

The event was hosted by the City of Saint John, Parks & Recreation Department and Brilliant Labs, with NBCC students from Promo Science Coding Camp lending a hand. Children, tech counsellors and community partners had an awesome time celebrating innovation, creativity and technology at Rocket Day!

the lamprey drawing was done by Bethany Reinhar

by Bailey Brogan, Climate Change Ecology Coordinator Throughout the holiday season, Canadians will produce approximately 25% more waste than any other time of year. Here are some tips for reducing waste this year: 1.Wrap your gifts with recyclable paper, like brown packing paper or newspaper. You can add your own designs!

2.Keep and re-use gift bags and tissue paper for next year 3.Make gifts with recycled or upcycled items 4.Buy gifts and food from local vendors 5.Buy less: make a donation in someone’s name, or give tickets to a local event 6.Compost your food peelings 7.Donate old items to charity 8.Handmake your own cards 9.Recycle batteries and electronics 10.Make your decorations out of paper, popcorn, tree boughs and pinecones By implementing these tips into your holiday traditions you will reduce your environmental impact and have a “green” Christmas. All of us at ACAP Saint John wish you a safe and happy holiday season!

Season’s Greetings &

Best Wishes for a Safe and Happy 2019 From the Directors & Staff of the Saint John Exhibition Association

&

Exhibition Park Bingo

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Over 100 youth enrolled in UYES!

Celebrating the Friars Sisters

left to right, Mayor Don Darling, Councillor Donna Reardon, Tracy Friars, Bette Vincent, Darlene Friars, Wendy Youden, Barbara Walker, Heather Stilwell, Lynn MacDonald, Jane Dalton, Councillor John MacKenzie, Deputy Mayor Shirley McAlary (photo courtesy the City of Saint John)

by Debbie McLeod, Department of Social Development, on behalf of the Neighbourhood Action Group On November 26th the Friars family and friends performed their 15th annual Celebrate concert in front of a sold-out crowd at the beautiful Imperial Theatre! The five priority neighbourhoods were chosen as recipients of this year’s concert; in 2015 the neighbourhoods were chosen as recipients as well. We are all feeling doubly blessed! New this year The Friars family have established an endowment fund through the Saint John Community Foundation which will continue to support work being done in the five priority neighbourhoods. This is a gift that will keep on giving. We are all so grateful!

A BIG surprise came just before intermission when Mayor Don Darling announced the Friars Sisters were receiving the Freedom of The City. This is the highest award the City can bestow on a group or individual. Thank you for all you do for our City. Thank you for raising awareness, promoting services, and raising over $1,000.000. for our community. You are all so special and so deserving of this prestigious award.

Around The Block Team (Issue 62) Old North End: Chrisa Petts Lower South End: Mary LeSage Crescent Valley: Anne Driscoll Waterloo Village: Penni Eisenhauer Lower West Side: Jill Roberts and Krista Creamer Proofreaders: Jane Hanlon, Mark Driscoll, Rona Howald, Cindy Bishop, and Pat Porter Ad design: Pat Porter Layout and Design: Juanita Black Community members: Lyn King, Lisa Chamberlain, Tina Roy, Debbie McLeod.

by Project Manager Keith Pierce UYES! (the Urban Youth Employment & Education Service) is a federally-funded youth employment and education program that is being coordinated by five community partners located in the Waterloo Village: The Teen Resource Center, The Saint John Learning Exchange, The Saint John Community Loan Fund, Outflow Ministry and the Saint John Human Development Council. The goal of this program is to help youth who are facing barriers in transitioning to employment and/or to assist them in returning to school and furthering their education. To date, UYES! has over 100 youth registered and receiving assistance via pre-employment training and academic learning programs, a carpentry skills training course, as well as, case management services and support.

Mackenzie Arseneault, one of the youth enrolled in UYES! who recently completed the GOALS program at the Saint John Learning Exchange, states, “ Since I started coming to the Learning Exchange, not only did I build an amazing resume due to the work opportunities I have been offered, I have also improved immensely in my teamwork and communication skills.” Mackenzie goes on to say, “ The time I have spent at the Learning Exchange has changed EVERYTHING about my life.”

UYES! Project Manager Keith Pierce says, “We’re still in the early phases of the project and we’re already seeing the tremendous impact UYES! is having on the lives of our youth in Saint John. It’s very encouraging!”

For more information contact HDC at (506) 634-1673 or the TRC at (506) 632-5765.

Food purchase contest This is issue 62 of Around The Block and our Food Purchase contest.

We are happy to partner for the third year with Saint John Energy to offer two $25.fresh fruit and produce orders for this Holiday Traditions issue of ATB, plus turkeys from MLA Gerry Lowe. You need to find, hidden anywhere, in pictures, ads, banners, or stories throughout Around the Block, two Saint John Energy logos (not including this notice and the Saint John Energy ad on page 12).

Send your answer, with your name, address and phone number to sjcommunitynewspaper@gmail.com or call 647-4850. You need to identify the page and location of each hidden logo. Only one entry per household. Your name will go into a draw for one of the orders. The contest will end at 5 p.m. on Thursday December 20th. You will be called if you are a winner with the location where you can pick up your order.

Congratulations to the winners for issue 61, Anita DeSilva and Helen Bateman. We will list winners of this contest on the Saint John Human Development Facebook page on Friday December 21st.

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