she ShinesTM WINTER 2006/07 FREE celebrating the aspirations and accomplishments of women time, talent, treasure

getting people to care

women ending hunger

students and community service

women of the year

special insert ywca winter II programs

share it trust it smile

volume 2, no. 5 www.sheshines.org s hare it she Shinescalendar

sights and sounds for the Foundling is a period-instrument ensemble dedicated to the string december she spirit music of the Baroque era and a women’s advocacy project. “The ensemble produces an elegant and refined reading of the third Brandenburg concerto,” said Channing Gray, an arts writer from Dec. 26-30, Audubon Environmental The Providence Journal after a recent performance. Gray described Education Center: activities planned for Foundling as an all-female string orchestra that dresses in jeans and school vacation week. Call 245-7500 for a plays up a storm. daily schedule. asri.org Their inspiration, the women of l’Ospedale della Pietà, the 18th century Venetian foundling home where Vivaldi worked as a music Dec. 26-31, Holly Days: week of holi- teacher. It was home to the city’s orphaned and abandoned girl chil- day fun. Festivities planned from 11am-3pm dren. Given an honored place in civic life through an arts program, they at the 19th century site of Slater Mill in performed throughout Venice. Their musical work supported the Pawtucket. Admission $9 for adults, $8 for orphanage and attracted the attention and acclaim of all of Europe. seniors, $7 for children 6-12, and free for “Our hope is that Foundling, too, will achieve significant artistic stature while working to foster public awareness, private and corporate children under 6. Call 725-8638. slatermill.org generosity, and civic responsibility and pride.” Dec. 28, Diane Postoian at Providence To assist with the issues, needs, and concerns of women and Children’s Museum: storyteller performs children in the Rhode Island community, this season they are working in partnership with the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic “Diaries of a Frog,” a set of earth stories that Violence. include the animated voices of each animal Two concerts remain in their third season: January 7th - Vivaldi character. From 1-2pm for ages 3-11. Program glorious concerts Gloria and on March 25th - Glorious Naples, Glorious Rome. See fur- is free with admission, $6.50. Call 273-KIDS ther details in the calendar or visit foundling.org for ticket information. or visit childrenmuseum.org for details. Venice inspired, Providence performed photo courtesy of Foundling Dec. 28, Blood Drive: at the Dunkin Donuts on Social Street in Woonsocket from 4-8pm. All donors receive a free pound of Grace Church in Providence. Audience mem- and array of unusual instruments. Concert at Call Sheniqua Brown at 330-1724. Dunkin Donuts coffee. Visit ribc.org for addi- bers invited to bring diapers, personal hygiene Westerly Armory beginning at 2pm. Call 596- tional dates and locations. Feb. 18, Adams Piano Recital and personal care items for women in shelters. 8554. westerlyarmory.com Series: Ursula Oppens has won renown as Dec. 31, First Night Newport: a non- foundling.org Jan. 26-28, Women’s Wilderness a persuasive interpreter of classical reper- alcoholic, family-oriented celebration of arts Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29 and Feb. 5, 12 Adult Weekend of RI: great food, heated cabins, toire and a timeless champion of contem- and culture. Location is citywide in Newport. Weight Management: Six week adult weight classes, and entertainment. Located at W. porary music. Begins at 2:30pm. Contact Call 800-976-5122. firstnightnewport.org loss and fitness program helps with low fat Alton Jones Campus at URI. womenswilder- Performing Arts Series at Rhode Island Dec. 31, Bright Night Providence: food choices, quick and healthy recipes, label nessri.com College for ticket sales and information, artist-run, arts oriented New Year’s Eve cele- reading, and ways to burn calories. From 6- Jan. 28, Storytelling Moon 2007: tradi- 456-8144. ric.edu/pfa bration. Location is at various sites throughout 7:30pm. Fee is $72. Contact Memorial tional Narragansett Indian storytelling by Feb. 21, 2nd Taste of the Flower Providence. Call 621-6123. brightnight.org Hospital of RI at 729-2574 to register. Narragansett storytellers. Share in oral tradi- Show Preview Party: combines beauty of Jan. 16, Getting (Financially) Even: tions at Tomaquag Museum in Exeter from 1 flower show and food of Rhode Island’s Leading Women event at Chelo’s Restaurant to 4pm. Tickets $4 adults and $2 for children. greatest chefs at Rhode Island Convention january Banquet Hall in Warwick. From 8-9:30am. Call 491-9063. tomaquagmuseum.com Center. Benefits the Rhode Island Food Eveyln Murphy, author of Getting Even, will Bank. Tickets are $75. Call Guy Abelson shake you up and get you acting. Tickets are at 942-6325 x270. rifoodbank.org Jan. 1, New Year’s at the Zoo: a winter $40. Call 439-6107. leadingwomen.biz Feb. 24, The Vagina Monologues: experience at Roger Williams Park Zoo. Free february Jan. 18, RI Women Veterans Benefits coming to Newport as a fundraiser for admission on New Year’s Day. Call 785-3510. Briefing: at 6pm in the VA Medical Center in Silent Witnesses of Rhode Island. For rogerwilliamsparkzoo.org Providence, 5th floor. Open to all RI Feb. 8-11, Love Notes: evening of love- information or to purchase tickets call Jan. 1, Newport Polar Bear women veterans. Contact Jeannie inspired one act comedies and Broadway hit 714-2388. rafiproductions.com Plunge: at noon the Newport Vachon, 275-4208. songs, staged at Academy’s original home, Polar Bears take a plunge into Pove Jan. 20, Big Sisters Swift Gym in East Greenwich. Call 885-6910. Events are listed in the calendar as the ocean. This year “A Wish rty Clothing Drive: (any gender academyplayers.org space allows. Submissions for the calen- Come True” is the charity. All in or size) and cloth of any Feb. 9-11, Winter Passion: El Amor dar may be e-mailed to sheshines@ welcome at Easton’s Beach Am kind – linens, blankets, Brujo – world premiere at VMA Arts and mac.com, faxed to 769-7454, or mailed and join the after swim party eric afghans, winter coats, com- Cultural Center in Providence. Tickets from to She Shines, 514 Blackstone Street, a Woonsocket, RI 02895. at Atlantic Beach Club. Call Mon forters. From 8am-1pm at the $17 to $62, call 800-919-6272. For perform- 846-0028. th Donation Center on 40 Webb ance details visit festivalballet.com. users.ids.net/~cwwright/ Street in Cranston. Clothing must Feb. 14, Go Red for Women Breakfast: Jan. 3-21, Wicked: a new musi- be in bags. Refreshments available 4th annual event to bring together Rhode cal at the Providence Performing Arts Center. and tax receipts provided for donations. Door Island women for a morning of education of Long before the girl from Kansas arrives in prize available for first 25 donors. bigsisters- women’s #1 killer – heart disease. Participants a peek ahead Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of fund.org wear red, enjoy a heart healthy breakfast, Oz. Tickets $51-78. Call 421-2997. ppac.org Jan 21, Winter Concert by Atwater receive information materials, listen to guest March 8, International Women’s Jan. 7, Foundling 2nd Concert of the and Donnelly: performance of Appalachian, speakers, and take part in a raffle. From 7:30- Day: hosted by Lincoln School in Season: Vivaldi Gloria. Begins at 3:30pm at Celtic, and original folk music with vocals 9:30am at Crowne Plaza Hotel in Warwick. Providence. lincolnschool.org ¡ 2 she Shines winter 2006/07 www.sheshines.org more for girls does not equal less for boys.

To help or be helped, contact YWCA Northern Rhode Island at 769-7450. Or visit sheshines.org. www.sheshines.org winter 2006/07 she Shines 3 TM time she Shines talent volume 2, no. 5 contents celebrating the aspirations and treasure accomplishments of women published by YWCA Northern Rhode Island 2 calendar/she spirit into the new year: publisher experience a string orchestra Deborah L. Perry editor 5 to/from the editor Lisa Piscatelli gifts: She Shines inspired poetry and appreciating The Giving Tree website administrator Meaghan Lamarre 6 artist canvas imagination: with mentor Carrie Sandman contributors: writers 7 health for her Jennifer Belliveau, Cleo D. Graham, connecting: to end hunger, the RI Food Bank Ann Khaddar, Jane Lancaster, Mary Flynn donates her time and talent to Lesléa Newman, and 8 on the campaign trail the Rhode Island Food Bank. See her recipe on how to eat healthy on a limited cartoonist - Betsy Streeter cusp of inauguration: Lt. Governer-elect budget, page 7. photo by Agapao Productions photographers Elizabeth Roberts Agapao Productions and Industrial f/X Inc. 9 sense ability editorial consultant survey results: of local women’s concerns she shines interviews maria caporizzo wishing: for world peace 13 Anna Cano-Morales: improving education She Shines 10 on the rhode in Central Falls 514 Blackstone Street Woonsocket, RI 02895 public spaces: that honor women 14 Ruth and Kathy Jellison: mother and p 401 769 7450 12 students speak daughter recognized as Rhode Island f 401 769 7454 community service: at Lincoln School women of the year - in ‘71 and ‘06 www.sheshines.org [email protected] with Carlene Ferreira and Jenna Musco volunteers: at URI, build “house in a box” for Katrina She Shines is published five times a year and distributed free throughout Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. All stated opinions are those of the indi- 15 let’s talk shop in her words vidual authors and not of the publication as a whole. All Cause & Effect: with consultant Gayle Gifford magazine content, including the articles, advertisements, art, photographs and design is copyright © 2006, She 11 Jane Lancaster: Brown University archives Shines, all rights reserved. No portion of this magazine 17 a quote from herstory consultant discovers Christiana Bannister may be copied or reprinted without the written permis- Mother Teresa: encourages care sion of the publisher. She Shines is a trademark of YWCA Northern Rhode Island. The circulation is 8,000 16 Lesléa Newman: poetically asks - “what to printed copies. 23 shining with write about?” Kim Garneau: “find a passion and turn it into how to service, it’s amazing what you’ll get back.” 17 Volunteer Center of Rhode Island: contribute. She Shines welcomes letters to the editor, answers the question - “why volunteer?” articles, poetry, stories, graphics, photos, and calendar events. Please contact us if you have an inspiring story to tell special insert 18 Ann Khaddar: returning contributer or have a suggestion of someone to be featured. A self YWCA Northern Rhode Island: takes her walk to heart addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all unsolicited winter II programs material. Only original contributions will be considered and may be edited due to space limitations. Include contact infor- mation including name, e-mail, address, and phone number. Images provided electronically must be high-resolution. subscription form ¡ submit cover art. The cover is reserved as a gallery of art in keeping with the theme of She Shines. For consider- She Shines is a free publication in RI and southeastern MA. To receive a subscription, fill in the form below. ation, please send in a photo by e-mail attachment or mail. Donations are appreciated and help to support this local magazine of women’s issues. This is a wonderful opportunity for local artists to show their work. A biography is published in conjunction with Name Organization/Company the “Artist Canvas” section of She Shines. Title Address advertise. Visit www.sheshines.org to view the advertis- Comments City State Zip ing media kit. She Shines reserves the right to refuse to sell space for any advertisement the staff deems inappropri- E-mail ate for the publication. Phone receive the magazine. She Shinesis a free publication Optional Donation: $ mailed to members and friends of YWCA Northern Rhode Mail to: Please enclose a check made payable to Island. To be added to the mailing list, a subscription form is She Shines available on this page and on the website www.sheshines.org. YWCA Northern Rhode Island. The magazine is also available at YWCA Northern Rhode 514 Blackstone Street Island and at various special events. Woonsocket, RI 02895 Thank you!

4 she Shines winter 2006/07 www.sheshines.org to the editor from the editor Well I think it is both. It depicts smile appreciating The Giving Tree Greetings Lisa, growing up - the responsibily for My sister, Christine Arouth, is just a few years self, others, and even environment. I hope you’re doing well. August younger than I. Growing up, we shared a play room This winter issue is all that too, 2006, I was inspired to write a poem with plenty of toys and books. I even remember the showing the ways women give back called “She Shines”. braided rug, marred with some remaining silly to community. There will be exam- putty that I carelessly smushed into the fibers. ples of time, talent, and treasure. Be Blessed, Cleo Just down the hall was the formal living room, TIME: You’ll meet two young SHE SHINES used only for company. Though one thing seemed women from a Quaker school in Providence. While out of place. In the end table, a children’s book community service is required at Lincoln School, SHINE called The Giving Tree. these students certainly give their all. Jenna Musco Feel the ground of someone in need Not fully understanding the story, my sister and created an after school program and Carlene Dig in deep, plant some seeds I enjoyed the black and white pages with simple Ferreira tutors inner-city youth. SHINE words and line drawings. Its cover, soft green. Yet TALENT: The women in the Foundling ensem- Touch the earth, the lessons inside grew within us. ble use their gift of music to perform and support SHINE This Shel Silverstein book was given to our local charities to benefit women and children. Your light in the dark, mother by her long time friend, Diane Santoro. An TREASURE: Anna Cano-Morales with The Warm a broken heart inscribed message written inside the cover, includes Rhode Island Foundation represents responsible SHE SHINES a Bible verse, “. . . for where your treasure is, there stewardship. Here seen in a new light, she is dedi- Every time will be your heart.” cated to improving public education in Central Falls. There’s an opportunity to move Our mother, Katy Piscatelli, is an active commu- In 2006, The Women’s Fund of Rhode Island SHINE nity volunteer. She taught us to care about others. surveyed women ages 18 to 75. Among their find- Your light Both my sister and I have spent most of our careers ings, women are committed to volunteering. With Someone is cold, hungry, scared of working to make a difference in service oriented the local need so great, that is good news. the night organizations. Now we are raising children and try- So pick your causes again in 2007 and make a SHE SHINES ing to pass along the values that we hold dear. difference in your own special way. And know, it is Her light moves through The meaning of The Giving Tree, as I now read appreciated within the community. SHE SHINES it to my children, is a story of unending love and photo by Her light bounces off friendship. Or is it a story of giving and receiving. Happy New Year, Agapao Productions SHE SHINES Her light reflects SHE SHINES Her light whitens t SHE SHINES f

Her light through i SHE SHINES Her light for you. g

Cleo D. Graham t “Grahams of Healing” © 2006 a e r g

a

s e k Editor’s Note: a Cleo D. Graham received a YWCA Email: [email protected] 2006 Woman of Achievement award for her work in holistic/natural heal- m Upcoming Weekends: ing. She was featured in the Fall Jan. 26 - 28, 2007 May 4 - 6, 2007 issue of She Shines. www.sheshines.org winter 2006/07 she Shines 5 artist canvas

The photo on the cover of this edition of She Shines is part of a series of mishaps and enchantments. Carrie Sandman is working on different lighting techniques and clothing styles to make her photos timeless. Sandman, age 25, teaches photography and collage to high school students at New Urban Arts in Providence. Though life at times is confusing, she suggests that artwork helps a person be less stressed and more focused. And says, “ . . . finding new ways to sort out your thoughts is what artwork does to you.” photo of Sandman by Agapao Productions imagine a moment art’s influence upon children and adults

o capture a moment in time, Carrie provokes a sense of mystery or humor in her T Sandman thought this was possible. She photographs, finding that different conflicts take began exploring photography. However the different strengths to persevere. longer she tried to capture a true moment, the Sandman loves working with children, more she was disillusioned. “Just like observing that they have a great capacity to tol- looking into a mirror, my photographs erate the harsh realities of the world. She says, were only reflections of what had “From my experience, this tolerance seems to passed, distorted through my lens,” stem from their vast and ever growing ability to Sandman says. imagine and create.” These days she finds satisfac- In her youth Sandman felt loss first-hand tion in creating imagined moments. when a high school friend was killed in a car Sandman explains, “I began to create accident. She credits two artist mentors for help- a world for my viewers that had previ- ing her get through this period — a high school ously only existed in my mind, as real art teacher in Tiverton, Gerri Feldman, and a to me as it was fictional: a world professional artist in Jamestown, Julie Munafo. made up of my childhood stories of Sandman says, “They showed me the strength of make-believe.” being a woman artist.” Sandman believes they “These women are alone in their are why she became an artist. Their influence is struggles and the only princes to res- likely why she finds it important to be an artist cue them are inside themselves,” she mentor. says. Sandman has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Reading The Bloody Chamber photography from Pratt Institute. She is working by Angela Carter further influenced on her master’s degree in art therapy there as Sandman. In this book old fairy tales well. were given a new twist by making the Her professional dream is to help people heroine appear less helpless. heal themselves through art, believing that art She sees herself as a modern and play are therapeutic for children and adults. day damsel in distress. Her subjects Sandman’s premise, “To fully understand and are women in some kind of physical heal ourselves we must see and experience what awkwardness or mishap. Sandman we are feeling outside of ourselves.”

6 she Shines winter 2006/07 www.sheshines.org health for her 5 TIPS: spinach, fight against hunger EATING beans, and HEALTHY whole wheat pasta women on the frontlines ON A LIMITED serves 4 BUDGET approx. preparation time: 20 minutes ore than 4 percent of all Rhode 8 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1. 2 cloves garlic, pressed M Island households don’t have enough purchase canned or 1 19-ounce can cannellini beans, food to meet their basic needs and are at risk frozen produce vs. drained and rinsed well of going hungry. Women Ending Hunger is fresh (less waste) 1 10-ounce package of frozen an initiative to tap into the economic, social, chopped spinach, defrosted, drained and personal connection women have to the 2. 1 14.5 ounce can of “Petite Diced” need for adequate food. This collaboration eat less flesh Tomatoes 8 ounces whole wheat pasta seeks to provide nutrition awareness, home- each day - beef/poultry/seafood budgeting opportunities, and to increase par- optional: fresh herbs (rosemary, basil, ticipation in the federal food stamp program. thyme), salt and pepper 3. Stephanie Chafee, use coupons Heat a large pot of salted water to founder of the Rhode cook the pasta. When the water boils, Island Free Clinic, is a 4. cook the pasta. Heat the olive oil on women leader volunteer- serve appropriate low. Add the pressed garlic and stir to ing with Women Ending portion sizes combine. Heat for 2-3 minutes. Add Hunger. She splits her (example for starch: the drained, rinsed cannellini beans 1/2 cup child and and stir into the oil. Turn the heat up time between the issues of to medium/high and stir in the defrost- Stephanie Chafee food and health. “If peo- 1 – 1 1/2 cup adult) ed, drained spinach. Season with salt ple aren’t eating well, I see them in my clin- and pepper. Heat on medium/high 8- 5. ic,” says Chafee. 10 minutes, stirring often. Stir in the decrease herbs. Stir in the canned tomatoes. Each month, the Food Bank helps eating out Heat until the pasta is cooked. Toss 51,000 Rhode Islanders through a network with cooked pasta and serve. of over 400 certified member agencies. One out of every three people served is a child Mary Flynn is an assistant professor of medicine in research at The Miriam calories per 1/4th of recipe: 590 Hospital. She volunteers at the Rhode Island Community Food Bank as a board under the age of 18. For more information member and committee member for the Women Ending Hunger program. See approx. cost: on the Rhode Island Community Food Bank her tips for eating healthy on a limited budget. Flynn has made the spinach, $1.20/serving with whole-wheat pasta and its Women Ending Hunger program, beans, and whole-wheat pasta recipe at the Rhode Island Free Clinic. photo of $ .90/serving with white/refined visit rifoodbank.org. Flynn by Agapao Productions. photo of Chafee courtesy of RI Community Food Bank. flour pasta

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www.sheshines.org winter 2006/07 she Shines 7 1: With Congressman James Langevin visiting the Thundermist Health Center in Wakefield. Thundermist CEO Maria Montanaro is with staff giving the Lieutenant Governor-elect and the Congressman a tour of the facility.

2: Campaigning in Woonsocket during AutumnFest with her friend and former Representative Nancy Benoit.

photos courtesy of Elizabeth Roberts for lieutenant governor 2

1 on the campaign trail with Lt. Governer-elect Elizabeth Roberts

t. Governer-elect Elizabeth Roberts will be inaugurated on January 2nd, into L the highest statewide elected office ever held by a woman in Rhode Island. She won in 36 out of 39 cities and towns. The issues campaigned on were quality healthcare families can afford; build- ing our economy and creating jobs; “back-to-basics” education; “peace-of-mind” long term care; “no excuse” emergency preparedness; and protecting and improv- ing Rhode Island’s most important natural resources. She was endorsed by the Providence Journal, the Providence Business News, as well as the Providence Phoenix. And she received the endorsement of the AFL- CIO, the Rhode Island Manufacturer’s Association, and the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce. Roberts has lived in Rhode Island for more than 30 years. Keeping our state healthy and strong has been her work for the last ten years. 3

3: Looking over a product hot off the press at Mirror Design, a small business owned by Rick Roth (pictured). Roberts launched her “Healthy and Strong Main St. Tour” and visited every city and town in Rhode Island to talk with small business owners.

4: Taking part in Lt. Governor Charlie Fogarty’s “Operation Holiday Cheer” which sends thousands of care packages to our troops serving overseas during the holiday months.

5: Shaking hands at the Newport Avenue Fire Station in Pawtucket. 5 4

8 she Shines winter 2006/07 www.sheshines.org sense ability women’s opinions on politics, volunteering, her wish list and their issues

A 2006 Women’s Fund of Rhode Island survey puts cost of living, health care coverage, and education on top of the list of concerns for Rhode Island women age 18 to 75.

Three-quarters of the women reported that they volunteered during the past year in these activities:

44% organizations to help the poor, sick, elderly, or homeless 40% church or religious group 39% child or youth development programs 23% neighborhood, civic, or community group 16% arts or cultural organization 11% political organizations or candidates 8% unions

Contact the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island for more information on the Greenberg Copyright © 2006. All rights reserved. Reprinted with the permission of Betsy Streeter, Cartoonist. Quinlan Rosner Research. wfri.org Visit Brainwaves at www.betsystreeter.com.

www.sheshines.org winter 2006/07 she Shines 9 on the rhode honoring women in Providence

Lady Justice statues, monuments, Located at the east end of Exchange Place on the steps of Federal District Court. Lady Justice symbolizes the fair and and structures equal administration of the law without corruption, avarice, prejudice or favor. in public spaces editor’s note: For this issue of She Shines Lillian Feinstein our intention was to photograph Monument statues of women in outdoor Located in the west- public spaces in Providence. We found plenty of men, erly corner of City our search for female statues Park is a monument continues. honoring Lillian Feinstein (1905- photos by Deborah L. Perry 1998), the mother of Rhode Island philan- thropist Alan Shaw Feinstein. Engraved on the monument are the words “She loved Carrie Brown all people.” Memorial Fountain Located in the eastern sec- tion of City Park, the foun- tain was designed by Enid Yandell, erected in 1901. It was the gift of Paul Bajnotti of Turin, Italy, in memory of Betsey Williams Cottage his wife, Carrie Mathilde Located in Roger Williams Park is a Brown. The ‘Struggle of frame gambrel-roofed Georgian Life’ is depicted in the fig- Colonial house built in 1773 and ures around the fountain. last occupied by Betsey Williams, a descendant of Roger Williams and donor of the original Roger Williams park land. The house is now used as a museum.

Carrie Tower Located on Brown University campus is a tall square structure of red brick with vertical channeling, sur- rounded by a gold dome cupola. The black-faced clock, with its gold hands and numerals, strikes the hours. It was designed by Guy Lowell and erected in Johnson & Wales University 1904 as another memorial to Located adjacent to Weybosset Street Carrie Mathilde Brown. are gates to the Main Campus of Johnson and Wales University. The uni- versity was founded as a business school in 1914 by Gertrude I. Johnson and Mary T. Wales. 10 she Shines winter 2006/07 www.sheshines.org w i n t e r I I s e s s i o n 2 0 0 7 n o r t h e r n r h o d e i s l a n d

HEALTH PR0GRAMS machine, bikes, free weights, treadmill and 13 to 18 years old showers. You must pay a $20 instruc- NEW CLASS ART FOR TEENS: ENCOREplus® tion/processing fee and attend an introduc- BELLYDANCING THE IMPRESSIONISTS ENCOREplus® is a systematic approach to tory session in order to be eligible to use Particularly appropriate for those who have Bellydancing is quickly becoming one women's health promotion, in particular, the room. A YWCA adult female member- taken Modern Art for Young People, but all of the hottest forms of exercise today. breast and cervical cancer education ship is required. students are welcome. We will delve into more The combination of fun, technique, and control. Through this initiative the advanced techniques as we learn about the allure and mystery make this dance Impressionists and Post-impressionists. We'll YWCA currently offers community out- interesting. Adults and older teens also explore exciting new media, including reach, breast and cervical health educa- oil pastel and gouache. An art material fee of Classes will properly and effectively tion, linkage to clinical screening services YOGA $10 is included in the session fee. teach bellydacning as a form of exer- and assistance in accessing and navigating Flexibility and stress reduction are cise, expression, and female freedom. Missie St. Sauveur diagnostic treatment services when crucial for dealing with day-to-day Many women gain self-confidence of Mon. 5-6:30pm $71/7wks themselves and their bodies through necessary. The YWCA also offers support life. Take time to learn an art of movement this dance. during diagnosis and treatment. that will promote wellness and well being. Adults and teens* The class will Note: If you are over the age of 40 and Kathy Hopkins FEARLESS ART consist of: have no health insurance, or your insurance FOR ADULT BEGINNERS does not cover breast and cervical screen- Wed. 7-8:30pm $68/9wks Have you always itched to try your hand at - Stretching and painting, sketching, or sculpting, but don't warming up, loos- ings every year, you may qualify for free know where to start? Wish you knew the dif- ening muscles, services. The RI Dept. of Health Women’s ference between Manet and Monet? In this freeing the mind Cancer Screening Program provides a and warming up ART CLASSES class, adults can get an introduction to art- the body. women’s health exam including clinical New and returning students are welcome; making, as well as a little art history along breast and pelvic exams, Pap smear, mam- every session covers new artists and projects. the way, in a relaxed, non-judgmental atmos- - Technique and dance instruction, mogram, and follow-up services. phere. No talent or experience required. including a detailed breakdown of 5 to 7 years old Come have fun with us. You may be surprised movements, step by step. by what you can create. An art material fee of For more information about $10 is included in the session fee. *Teens are ® ART FOR CHILDREN - Cooling down period. ENCOREplus , please call Joyce welcome if accompanied by an adult. Dolbec, YWCA Health Consultant, at If you love drawing then this class is for you. - “Free time” in which students can 769-7450. If hearing/speech impaired Learn the basics of art through drawing, Missie St. Sauveur dance as they wish to interpret their call 1-800-745-5555 for more informa- painting, sculpting and creativity games. Mon. 7-8:30pm $71/7wks feelings of the music, or for those who tion on Cancer Screening Program. Please bring a smock or junky t-shirt and a wish to showcase what they are learn- ing in the performance mode. smile. An art material fee of $5 is included SHE SHINES™ in the session fee. Props such as veils and cymbals are 16+ years old Published by YWCA Northern available for those who wish to use Missie St. Sauveur Rhode Island, She Shines is a them. AEROBIC DANCE IN MOTION Thurs. 5-6:30pm $66/9wks magazine celebrating the aspira- Fees reflect member rates, non members tions and accomplishments of Various bellydancing moves will be taught including hip drops, figure pay an additional $20. 8 to 14 years old women. eights, shoulder shimmy and rolls, hip Collette Doura The spring session brochure will shimmies, undulations, turns, spins, MODERN ART chest isolations, footwork, and combi- Mon./Wed., 7:15-8:15pm $53/8wks FOR YOUNG PEOPLE appear in the next issue of She nations. We will cover “modern art” from the 20th Shines. Call 769-7450 to receive a Carol Goodier century. The students will learn about some free subscription or visit 17+ years old Tue./Thurs., 7:15-8:15pm $53/8wks of the most famous names in art. Learn how sheshines.org to view the online art can be about more than just painting a version. BELLYDANCING BY DAHEERA house that looks like a house. Educational The upcoming issue will be 17+ years old and very fun projects. An art material fee of themed - women’s history. To Classes are held Tuesday evenings $10 is included in the session fee. from 7-8:30pm. $68/9 wks WOMEN'S WORKOUT ROOM inquire about ad rates or to reserve ad space, contact Lisa Enjoy the privacy of a women's only Missie St. Sauveur facility with: a four stack universal Tues. 5:30-7pm $89/9wks Piscatelli at 769-7450.

R e g i s t r a t i o n f o r a l l c l a s s e s b e g i n s D e c . 2 6 t h . Classes begin the week of Jan. 7th and end the week of March 4th. No classes Jan. 15th and Feb. 19th. PRESCHOOL STEPPING STONES S P E C I A L I N T E R E S T P R O G R A M S A unique transitional program for children whose parents are postponing Kindergarten entrance. The YWCA RHODE ISLAND CLOTHESLINE PROJECT Stepping Stones is a developmentally A visual exhibit which bears witness to the victims and survivors of acts of appropriate setting where children partici- violence against women. The RI Clothesline Project is currently housed at pate in a program designed to enhance YWCA Northern Rhode Island. growth and development socially, emo- RHODE ISLAND FEMINIST RESOURCES NETWORK tionally, cognitively, and physically. A collective network of feminists and feminist organizations in Rhode Island Small class size (maximum 15) allows for dedicated to enhancing communication that links our efforts to achieve a much individual attention and common goal of equality for all. Visit the web site at rifrn.net. teacher/peer involvement. This program SMALL WORLD I - 1HR meets Mon.-Fri., 9am-noon or 1-4pm. Debbie Nault SHE SHINES™ Licensed by the Rhode Island Tues. 9-10am $56/9wks Published by YWCA Northern Rhode Island, She Shines is a magazine celebrat- Department of Education. ing the aspirations and accomplishments of women. Call 769-7450 to receive For more details or an appointment, SMALL WORLD II - 2HRS a free subscription or visit sheshines.org to view the on-line version. please call Mary Anne Deslauriers, Debbie Nault Director of Early Childhood Education, at SILENT WITNESSES OF RHODE ISLAND Tues. 10:00am-noon $77/9wks 769-7450. A traveling memorial honoring women and children of Rhode Island who were Wed. 10:15am-12:15pm $77/9wks murdered in acts of domestic violence. Learn more at silentwitness.net. EXTENDED DAY PRESCHOOL The YWCA offers several extended day SMALL WORLD III - 3HRS ment. Licensed by the Rhode Island BABY SITTING programs to help accommodate a par- Debbie Nault Department of Children, Youth and ent or guardians' schedule. The price is 10 to 13 years old Families. $5 per day for each program. Mon. 9am-12noon $77/7wks BABY SITTING CLINIC For more details or an appointment, Thurs. 9am-12noon $99/9wks Fri. 9am-12noon $99/9wks Child and infant care training including please call Kleo Perkins-Becker, Child EARLY BIRDS safety and first aid basics. Classes run Care Coordinator, at 769-7450. Children enjoy morning activities Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, and 26. in a classroom environment from YOUTH ENRICHMENT 8-9am and then are escorted to 3 to 7 years old Deb Smith, RN PROGRAMS their perspective classrooms. Mon. 3:30-4:45pm $38/5wks Our philosophy for youth enrichment is BREAKFAST SPECIAL to provide a developmentally appropriate LUNCH BUNCH Children eat lunch in a social envi- Fun and breakfast for 3 to 5 year olds. program for children in Kindergarten to Please wear sneakers. Sports, obstacle 15 years that focuses on a youth's indi- ronment then are offered center courses, etc. vidual needs. We provide a safe, nurturing, activities to enjoy from noon-1pm. and enriching program, which parents Lunches are brought from home. Debbie Fay/M. Martineau can rely upon throughout the year, espe- Mon. 9-11am $65/7wks cially after school, school vacations, and during the summer. Program encourages GYM PROGRAMS healthy social, emotional, physical, and SPORTSTASTIC cognitive development. Licensed by the A new sport every week, socialization, Walking to 3 years old Rhode Island Department of Children, and lunch making for your 3 to 5 year old. Youth and Families. PARENTING JUMPING BEANS Debbie Fay/Debbie Nault Gymnastics play with parent. Wed. 12:15-2:15pm $83/9wks 16 to 21 years old AFTER SCHOOL For Woonsocket Public and Catholic Debbie Fay/M. Martineau PARENTING IN PROGRESS Elementary Schools and the Tues. 9-10am $50/9wks INSIDE/OUTSIDE ADVENTURES An alternative education program Woonsocket Middle School students, Thurs. 10-11am $50/9wks Nice weather we will spend time outside housed at YWCA in collaboration with this program is offered Mon.-Fri., 2-6pm. on the playground collecting bugs, bird Woonsocket Education Department, Transportation is provided from the HALFTIME PLUS SPORTS watching, and more. Bad weather we Project RIRAL, BVCAP, Connecting for school to the YWCA. Students from sur- will play games in the gym. All activities Great fun while building independent Children and Families, and Family rounding elementary and middle schools followed by lunch. Resources Community Action, Inc. are welcome, but need to provide your skills for 2 to 3 year old. Parents partic- Eligible applicants must live in own transportation. ipate during first half of class in the Debbie Fay/Debbie Nault Woonsocket and be a pregnant or parent- gym for sports and parachute play. For more details or an appointment, please Mon. noon-2:00pm $65/7wks ing young woman under 21 years old. Children later move into classroom for call Melissa Flaherty, Youth Enrichment crafts and playtime. Class meets Mon. - Fri., 9am to 1pm. Program Director, at 769-7450. TUMBLING CRAFTY COOKS Debbie Fay/Debbie Nault For more information, please call Deb Beginner gymnastics skills training for 3 to 5 year olds combined with cooking Smith, Parenting in Progress Site Wed. 9-10:15am $65/9wks PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS and eating. Coordinator, at 769-7450. PRESCHOOL 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 years old Debbie Fay/Debbie Nault The YWCA preschool is a developmental program for children age 3 to 5. Our phi- Tues. noon-2:00pm $83/9wks CHILD CARE TUMBLE 'N RUN losophy is reflected in a “hands on” Thurs. noon-2:00pm $83/9wks INFANT/TODDLER approach to learning through interactive Fitness, games, and gymnastics Our philosophy is to provide a develop- experiences with peers, the environment, instruction. mentally appropriate program for children and adults. Our most important function Debbie Fay/M. Martineau GYMNASTIC FANTASTIC 8 weeks to 3 years that focuses on a at the YWCA preschool is to ensure that Thurs. 9-10am $56/9wks A fantastic activity packed class for 3 1/2 to child's individual needs. We provide a each child's first school experience is 5 year olds. One hour of gymnastics fol- safe and nurturing program, which parents safe, joyful, and enriching. Two, three, lowed by lunch, craft, and playtime. can rely upon throughout the year. Our and five-day programs with morning, SMALL WORLD I, II & III Debbie Fay/Debbie Nault program encourages healthy social, emo- afternoon, or full day options are avail- Socialization and play groups; this is an tional, physical, and cognitive develop- able. excellent introduction program. Fri. 12noon-2:30pm $104/9wks GYM PROGRAMS Franklin COMPETITIVE TEAM CONTINUED Thurs. 4:30-5:45pm $68/9wks Monthly fee for all competitive teams: KIDS IN MOTION One day a week $44/month Shelby Lawson/Lauren Get fit and running, play different Two days a week $86/month Anastasides/Lisa Salois sports, and games weekly. Sports Three days a week $100/month include soccer, t-ball, hockey, golf, Sat. 10:15-11:30am $67/9wks and more. For 4 to 6 year olds. Jennie Graham, Head Coach Debbie Fay PRE-TEEN GYMNASTICS Breonna Gentes, Assistant Coach Gymnastics program designed specifically Mon. 3:30-4:45pm $40/7wks for 10 to 12 year old boys and girls. HOT SHOTS 4 to 9 years old Shelby Lawson Sat. 9-11am INTERMEDIATE MIXED CO-ED BEGINNER GYMNASTICS Sundays Sat. 11:30am-12:45pm $67/9wks TEAM A 8 to 16 years old Beginner gymnastics skills training Organizational night will be held January Sat. 11am-1pm for 3 to 5 year old boys and girls. 7th from 6-8pm. League play begins January 14th. Debbie Fay/M. Martineau 10 to 15 years old TEAM B 8 to 16 years old Tues. 10-11am $63/9wk Thurs. 4:30-6:30pm $68/12 wks & playoffs/plus TUMBLING Sat. 3:30-5:30pm membership fee. Floor, tumble track, and trampoline 6 to 9 years old gymnastics instruction. TEAM C 8 to 16 years old POWER CO-ED SPORTS SUPPERTASTIC Shelby Lawson/Lisa Salois Tues. 4-6:30pm JOHN PIETROPAOLI LEAGUE Half hour of sports followed by Fri. 3:30-4:30pm $54/9wks Sat. 1:30-3:30pm preparation of supper in the kitchen Tuesdays for 6 to 9 year old girls and boys. TEAM D 9 to 18 years old Intermediate or above players 13 to 18 years old only. Organizational night will Debbie Fay be held January 9th from TEEN GYMNASTICS & Thurs. 4-6:30pm Wed. 3:30-5pm $83/9wks 6:45-8pm. League play begins CONDITIONING Fri. 4:30-6:30pm January 16th. Gymnastics program designed Sat. 1:30-3:30pm specifically for teenagers. $56/10 wks & playoffs/plus membership fee. Shelby Lawson VOLLEYBALL PROGRAMS Sat. 1:15-2:30pm $67/9wks ADULT VOLLEYBALL LEAGUES INTERMEDIATE CO-ED League Director: Debbie Fay Wednesdays Intermediate or above players only. CONTINUING PROGRAMS If you play in more than one volleyball league you receive a discount for 2nd Organizational night will be held All classes listed below require permission or 3rd league. Sign up for two or more January 3rd from 6:30-8pm. League from instructor for participation. Please leagues today. Volleyball teams are play begins January 10th. call Jennie Graham or Debbie Fay at picked by draft. Come prepared to play $56/10 wks & playoffs/plus 769-7450. on organizational nights. Dates are subject membership fee. to change due to weather or other uncontrollable circumstances. To veri- 4 to 7 years old RECREATIONAL CO-ED fy times/dates, please call Debbie Fay, ADVANCED PEE WEE Physical Ed. Director, at 769-7450. Thursdays GYMNASTICS-LEVEL I & II Any level player welcome. Organizational night will be held Deb Nault/Lisa Salois/Hailey NEW! (for Sunday league only) January 11th from 6:30-8pm. League Franklin/Deb Fay Bring in your own team. If you don’t have a play begins January 18th. team, please attend organizational night Thurs. 3:30-4:30pm $54/9wks GYMNASTICS and we will help you make a team. 12 wk $56/10 wks & playoffs/plus league plus playoffs. membership fee. BASIC PROGRAMS 5 to 12 years old 3 1/2 to 5 years old INTERMEDIATE GYMNASTICS W O M E N ’ S C L U B S BEGINNER GYMNASTICS FOR Lisa Salois/Deb Nault/Elizabeth GIRLS AND BOYS Garceau A great all around introductory gymnas- Tues. 4:45-6pm $67/9wks tics program for 3 1/2 to 5 year old boys APRES-MIDI This club provides opportunities for both single and and girls. Preschoolers have the oppor- Shelby Lawson/Lauren married women to share activities, information, and to tunity to advance to higher levels. Anastasiades/Lisa Salois gain new friendships. Activities include guest speak- Debbie Fay/Shelby Lawson/Lisa ers, outings, restaurant tours, luncheons, and demon- Sat. 9-10:15am $67/9wks Salois strations. Membership is open to women 30 years of Fri. 3:30-4:30pm $63/9wks age and over. Meetings are held on alternate ADVANCED Thursdays at 1:30pm from September through June. 5 1/2 to 12 years old Debbie Fay/Lisa Salois/Elizabeth Garceau/Liane Barnett Y WIVES & GIRLS BEGINNER GYMNASTICS The purpose of this club is to build a fellowship of women devoted FOR GIRLS AND BOYS Tues. 3:30-4:45pm $67/9wks to the task of enriching each member's life by building a program A great all around introductory gymnastics around education, services for others, and recreation. Activities PRE TEAM program. Students have the opportunity include outings, special events, and service projects. Membership to advance to higher levels. Heather Martinelli is open to women 30 years of age and over. Meetings are held on alternate Tuesdays at 1:30pm from September through June. Debbie Fay/Deb Nault/Hailey Sat. 1:30-3pm $67/9wks YWCA ADVOCACY SPECIAL EVENTS YWCA MEMBERSHIP Call YWCA Northern Rhode Island at YWCA membership, paid yearly, Nancy Pelosi makes history 769-7450, for more details. is required for participation in all third in line for presidency programming except as otherwise indicated. Special non-member fees G Jan. 15, MLK Day Celebration: are available for some adult programs. One of the most exciting outcomes of the November election is that for the “Walking in the Footsteps of Non-Violence”. As a YWCA member, you have access to: first time in our nation's history a woman will be the speaker of the U.S. House Sign in begins at 9:30am at Woonsocket High G low cost, innovative programs School. The day includes an opening ceremo- of Representatives. In January, Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) will hold the highest G special membership events ny, keynote speaker - Robert King Kee, office ever held by a woman in the United States. As speaker, she will be third G volunteer opportunities breakout sessions, multicultural food, cultural in line for the presidency. G membership in the oldest, largest celebration, and the closing ceremony con- In another political first, a Muslim has been elected to serve in the U.S. women's movement in the nation cludes at 2:45pm. Co-sponsored by YWCA Congress. Keith Ellison achieved this milestone by defeating two other candidates (men and boys are welcome as associates) Northern Rhode Island. Contact Melissa G use of YWCA facilities nationwide in Minnesota's 5th Congressional District, which covers the Minneapolis area. Flaherty, 769-7450. Overall the election was positive for women candidates and candidates of color. G Feb. 7, National Girls and Women in ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP A total of three African Americans were elected to the House of Sports Day: YWCA Northern Rhode Island Representatives. The winners included: Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Keith Ellison 6 to 16 years $12.00 will announce an event in January. For more 17 to 64 years $22.00 (D-MN), and Henry Johnson Jr. (D-GA) and one Asian American was elected information on the history of the Day, see 65 and over $17.00 to the House of Representatives, Mazie Hirono (D-HI). below. Children under 6 must be covered by At the time of publication of this brochure, at least 10 women were newly parent or guardian membership. elected to the House and two to the Senate. Of the House winners, eight were 21st annual Membership fees are not refundable or Democrats and two were Republican. Female winners included: Gabrielle national girls deductible as a charitable contribution. Giffords (D-AZ), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Nancy Boyda Reduced rates are available in some (D-KS), Michele Bachmann (R-MN), Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH), Yvetter and women classes for members 65 and over. Clarke (D-NY), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Betty Sutton (D-OH), and Mary in sports day All classes and activities are open to Fallin (R-OK). The two female Senate winners were Claire McCaskill (D- both sexes unless otherwise indicated MO), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). in the class description. Fifty-eight female incumbents (42D, 16R) were reelected to Congress. wednesday A member may use the membership card The YWCA looks forward to working with all members of Congress-both february 7, 2007 at all other YWCAs in the USA. new and returning lawmakers - to enact public policies that help eliminate HOURS racism and empower women. On February 7, 2007, thousands of sports educators, coaches, athletic Monday - Thursday, 9am - 9pm Friday, 9am - 6:30pm directors, recreation directors, associ- Saturday, 9am - 5pm ation members, sponsors, students, and parents across the country will CLASS SCHEDULE show their support of the Day and of Classes are run in consecutive sessions winter II session 2007 this year's theme, "Throw like a girl during the school year, with a new schedule for the summer. strong alone. fearless together. — Lead like a champion!" ROOM RENTALS NGWSD began in 1987 as a day to Room rentals are available. Contact the remember Olympic volleyball player YWCA for details. Flo Hyman for her athletic achieve- ments and her work to assure equality O U R STORM POLICY for women's sports. Hyman died of Please listen to radio stations WOON M I S S I O N Marfan's Syndrome in 1986 while 1240AM or WNRI 1380AM for competing in a volleyball tournament cancellations, or watch Channel 10 in Japan. Since that time, NGWSD & 12 closing announcements. has evolved into a day to acknowl- School system delays, early dismissals, edge the past and recognize current and professional days do not apply to sports achievements, the positive YWCA schedule. influence of sports participation, and The YWCA is a women's membership movement YWCA NORTHERN RHODE ISLAND the continuing struggle for equality 514 Blackstone Street nourished by roots in the Christian faith and and access for women in sports. Woonsocket, RI 02895 sustained by the richness of many beliefs and T: 401-769-7450 Our YWCA Northern Rhode Island F: 401-769-7454 values. Strengthened by diversity, the Association event will be announced in BOARD OF DIRECTORS: draws together members who strive to create January…. Cheryl Felber-Campbell, President opportunities for women's growth, leadership, and Nancy Thompson, Vice President Kim Garneau, Secretary power in order to attain a common vision: peace, Susan Gershkoff, Esq., Treasurer justice, freedom, and dignity for all people. The Rosemary Brite Alessandra Borgess Association will thrust its collective power toward Cathy Brien the elimination of racism wherever it exists and by Gail Davis Susan Donahue, DC any means necessary. Vivian Godin Jeanne Lynch Deborah L. Perry, Executive Director in her words discovering Christiana Bannister by Jane Lancaster herself a “Hair Doctress” and promised to restore hair color and even cause new hair to grow—her product was clearly a precursor to Rogaine. Christiana Bannister died in Cranston in The newspaper advertisements gave addresses, December 1902: she had been in Howard, the so one hot August day I went to Boston. First stop Rhode Island Asylum for the Insane since the Boston Public Library on Copley Square where September that year. She was eighty years old, and they keep old city directories, the predecessors of apparently a poor, friendless colored lady and she our phone books. I wanted to find out where she was buried in an unmarked had lived and what jobs she had done during the grave at Providence’s North quarter century she had lived in Boston. I also Burial Ground, where she wanted to see if the buildings that housed her salons lay forgotten for many, were still standing. The answer was no — huge many years. offices and bank headquarters have entirely Almost exactly one changed Washington Street, and the site of her first hundred years later, howev- house is buried deep under the Mass General er, Christiana was immor- Hospital. talized. She became the One house is still standing, however, and it is on second woman and the first the Boston Black Heritage Trail. The Bannisters lived person of color to join the for two years in the home of Lewis Hayden, the most notable white men in the famous black activist of the day. His basement was Rhode Island State House when the Secretary of part of the famous Underground Railroad. One day, Portrait of Christiana Bannister. Photo of the Bannister portrait courtesy of Newport Art State unveiled a bronze bust of Bannister. when slave catchers demanded to enter, Hayden Museum. Collection of the Newport Art Museum by extended What did she do to earn this honor? pointed to two barrels on his front steps, said they loan of the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society in trust of The odds were stacked against Bannister. She were full of dynamite, and threatened to blow him- Bannister House. was a woman of mixed Native American and self, the house and the slave catchers to kingdom African American parentage, but she became a suc- come if they took one step further. They left. University, and the one on Benevolent Street looks cessful businesswoman, a supporter of the arts, and As Bannister was a hairdresser, and hairdress- very different from when the Bannisters lived there. a fundraiser for African American causes. ing salons were centers of information for the Bannister was still deeply involved in improv- I first discovered her at the Rhode Island Black Underground Railroad, it is likely she worked with ing the lives of African American women, as I dis- Heritage Society’s library, where I learned that she Hayden in helping runaway slaves. covered in the library of the Rhode Island Historical was born Christiana Babcock in South County in Bannister was definitely involved in raising Society on Hope Street. The Annual Reports of the about 1820, and that she was a hairdresser with money for members of the Massachusetts Fifty- Shelter for Aged Colored Women praise her “untir- salons in Boston, Worcester, and Providence. She Fourth, the famous “colored regiment,” whose thou- ing zeal” in fundraising. Zeal was not enough, how- married Canadian-born Edward Bannister, and with sand free black soldiers came from all over New ever, and in September 1902, nine months after the her financial support he became the most successful England, including some from Rhode Island. death of her husband, eighty-two year-old Bannister black painter in America after the Civil War. She To understand why a regiment needed fundrais- could no longer cope alone, and asked to be admit- later founded the Providence Home for Aged ers, I rented a video. The movie was Glory, starring ted to the Home. Eight days later the Managers, Colored Women, which evolved into the Bannister Denzel Washington, and tells how the regiment was saying she had become “violently insane,” moved Nursing Care Center. formed (under white officers — the North was her to the state asylum at Cranston where she died. Finding out more about Bannister was quite a reluctant to put black men in uniform) and how the In the twenty first century, when women in challenge. She left no letters, no diaries, no photo- government in Washington reduced their pay from Rhode Island still earn only three quarters of what graphs. There is only one portrait of her, a study by the promised $13 a month to $10. The men refused men earn, when women hold two thirds of all mini- her husband, which is now in the Newport Art to accept any pay until the injustice was put right, mum wage jobs, and when many women and girls Museum. It shows her dressed in purple, hands fold- and this meant great hardship for their families of color live below the official poverty line, ed demurely in her lap, her hair curling gently round back home. Glory is a stirring movie with heroic Christiana Bannister deserves to be remembered. her face. The talented Bolivian-born sculptor Pablo battlefield action, but unfortunately no sign of The bust in the State House is a worthy, if belated, Eduardo used this portrait as the basis for the bust. Bannister and her friends — but when did we tribute to a very remarkable woman. So how do we know about her? expect Hollywood to be historically accurate? Searching for Bannister involved some histori- Bannister and her husband moved to Providence cal detective work, trips to Boston, and even to the in 1869, so I turned my attention to her Rhode Jane Lancaster, an archives consultant to the video store. I also spent a lot of time in libraries. I Island activities. Edward Bannister helped found the Pembroke Center for the Study of Women and first went to the John Hay Library at Brown Providence Art Club, while Christiana Bannister Gender at Brown University, is an independent his- torian who has written on many Rhode Island University, where they keep the rare books. They continued her hairdressing business. They prospered women, including Christiana Bannister. Contact her have old copies of the Liberator there: it was a for a while, rented a cottage on the Bay during hot at [email protected] or visit her website Boston weekly newspaper devoted to ending slavery summers, and even had a boat. I tried to locate her at janelancaster.com. in the United States. To my great delight I found houses, to feel the spirit of the places where she had that Bannister frequently advertised in it. She called lived, but most were submerged by I 95 or Brown photo courtesy of Lancaster www.sheshines.org winter 2006/07 she Shines 11 students speak cerned about the issue in Sudan and Darfur, the genocide that is going on caring for others there. I’m also concerned with like politics, even though I can’t vote. I read the news and I’m in a journal- students from an all-girl Quaker school in Providence ism class. It’s really interesting. I also watch the Colbert Report. He Jenna Musco school? “In my spare time I love to Summerbridge does deliver news - it’s just in a way founded a read, cook, and listen to music.” She is an educa- that you wouldn’t commonly see it community has an interest in the arts including tional program on TV. I try to watch both sides, not problem solv- painting, drawing, and fashion for inner-city just the one that I may be leaning ing team at design. “I have been dancing, playing youth. Carlene to.” Lincoln piano, skiing, and water skiing since Ferreira taught School. I was very young.” literacy to Have you set goals for the future? Working in three 7th “I just really want to leave an impact.” partnership Describe your family? “My family grade girls with Camp loves to spend time together, whether during the Tell me about your career aspirations? Street by going to the beach, hiking, or ski- summer “I really don’t know what I want to be Ministries, it ing in New Hampshire.” Musco lives months. She yet, but I have a lot of interests. I know offered Project Play, an after- in an old farmhouse with her mom, now plans to be involved with the that I definitely want to work in the school program. In 2006, their team dad, and three brothers. Saturday program that begins in social area, maybe immigration. Since placed 4th in the international com- December. “I felt that I had a con- I can speak a little bit of Spanish and I petition held at the University of Do you follow the news? “I listen to nection with the kids,” she says. also speak Creole . . . I think that I can Kentucky. NPR [National Public Radio]. In my family, it’s sort of an unspoken tradi- How old are you? “16.” Ferreira is a make a difference by maybe translat- What did you learn from community tion.” Her list of important news sto- high school junior at Lincoln School ing. Sometimes people come to this problem solving? “Everyone has ries includes finding alternatives for in Providence. country and they don’t know how to something to give, to contribute. So fuel, addressing international famine, speak English and they’re just thrown much promise, all the teams were so and preserving animal habitats. She Do you think that a student can make into things. I want to help people who enthusiastic. I learned something spoke of HIV/AIDS as an issue of a positive difference in the communi- come with nothing.” from everyone.” Musco’s community concern to the youth, disease aware- ty? “I definitely think so. If you put service includes starting a recycling ness. enough of your mind into it and you What makes you happy? “My family program at Lincoln and making think positively. If you work hard really makes me happy. I love my quilts for Project Linus. In thinking about your own future, towards your goal, you can make a family.” Due to persecution in Cape do you have a career in mind? difference. Any individual can make a Verde, Ferreira’s mother, father, two How can the youth make a positive “Although I was interested in inter- difference and it’s even better if more sisters, and a brother immigrated to difference in their community? “We national business for awhile, current- than one get together.” the United States. Ferreira has always are the future.” Musco expressed ly I am increasingly interested in a lived in Rhode Island. “My oldest sis- frustration at not being able to vote. possible career in genetic research, Are there issues in the news that con- ter just recently moved back to Cape She suggested that students should biotechnology, and bioengineering.” cern you? “I am really, really con- Verde with my niece and my nephew get their voices heard by contributing who I love dearly. It kind of makes my sad. I wish that we could all be in opinion/editorials and participat- Lincoln School is the only kindergarten to grade 12, all-girls Quaker school in ing in rallies. Musco is 17 and a high the nation. They encourage all their students to participate in community serv- together, but she’s happy over there.” school senior at Lincoln School. ice. Jenna Musco, left, founded Lincoln’s Community Problem Solving team. Ferreira has extended family that live Carlene Ferreira, right, teaches with the Summerbridge program. in the United States, Cape Verde, and Tell me about your life outside of Interviews by Lisa Piscatelli. Photos by Agapao Productions. Europe. university volunteers support Katrina rebuilding I n the aftermath of Katrina, URI’s volunteers swung into a Habitat for Humanity, “House in a Box.” action to coordinate fundraising to support the rebuilding. The house began to take shape when students, faculty, More than 1,000 students volunteered more than 15 hours and staff, armed with hammers and saws, framed the each to raise more than $35,000. The money was raised home’s windows, doors, and corner pieces on the primarily by student groups, which held fundraisers University’s Quadrangel. The house was delivered to the throughout the academic year. The funds helped to sponsor gulf area in November. URI, Roger Williams, and Johnson and Wales URI women studies major Celanda Montilla hammers nails into lumber while communi- University were named to the first President’s Higher cations studies professor Lynne Derbyshire holds the two-by-fours steady. The Habitat Education Community Service Honor Roll. This new pro- for Humanity “House in a Box” was delivered to the gulf area in November. gram is designed to increase public awareness of the con- Photo by Nora Lewis, courtesy of URI. tributions that college students make in their local commu- nity and beyond through volunteer service. 12 she Shines winter 2006/07 www.sheshines.org she shines interview deep roots in the community Columbian American Rhode Islander advocates for access to education by Deborah L. Perry one former elected official. Enthusiastic and excited about her appointment, nna Cano-Morales is young, bright, articulate she was ready to get down to the business of mak- A and grew up in Central Falls. ing a difference. But Cano-Morales found herself “Not many people out there see people like me growing impatient at school board meetings, where as a product of Central Falls…. contributing citizen, football schedules and class trips dominated the participating civically, involved in community, giv- conversation, and where she was assigned to the ing generously to causes, volunteer and homeown- building and grounds committee. er,” she said. Cano-Morales was interested in diving into pol- Cano-Morales, a senior program officer at The icy issues that had to do directly with student aca- Rhode Island Foundation, a graduate of the demic achievements. University of Rhode Island who earned a master’s degree in social work at Rhode Island College, A Strong Voice knows the power of education. Growing up Cano-Morales’ parents knew the “There are many more people out there like me, importance of education and lacked confidence in but we have a common denominator – we had the public school system. They sent her to private access to education. Education was my ticket out school until ninth grade, when her family was living and is for most urban kids, most low income in Pawtucket. minorities; it’s exposure to other ways of life, other Her parents came to Central Falls in the 1960s resources and formal education,” she said. and were among the first Columbians to arrive in That’s not exactly happening yet in Cano- the Blackstone Valley area. Morales’ native Central Falls. Her father had a prestigious job: he was the Under the federal No Child Left Behind Act, boss, a foreman in a factory. He traveled back and the state of Rhode Island adopted procedures for forth to Columbia to recruit skilled workers for the determining school performance in areas such as textile industry, skills they honed to an art while Anna Cano-Morales stands on the balcony of The math and English. Central Falls consistently has still in South America. Rhode Island Foundation where she is senior pro- some of the lowest performing schools in the state. Because the new workers spoke only Spanish, gram officer. Along with her program officer duties, As of 2004, 86 percent of Central Falls schools Cano-Morales often became their translator. “My she currently co-leads the Hispanics in Philanthropy “needed improvement”. father would offer me as their little lawyer. I’d go to funding collaborative and grantmaking for the foun- Central Falls also has one of the state’s highest law offices, go and buy cars and negotiate, negoti- dation. photo by Deborah L. Perry concentrations of young people living in economi- ate for apartments, attend job interviews. Nothing cally disadvantaged circumstances and a significant was in Spanish. I was the translator.” Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary portion of its population is transient or newly arriv- At a young age, she developed a strong voice. She Education, asked Cano-Morales to chair the board. ing immigrants. learned to speak not only for herself but also for others. She agreed, with conditions. She asked McWalters “The obstacles for our kids are so much higher “I remember being 7 years old and translating for his support of her leadership and for support of than they are for other kids. Race, ethnicity, class, for adults. Filling out food stamp applications for the district as a whole. And she demanded a part- lack of financial opportunity are factors. The list people who were in need of food stamps. I remem- nership with the state. goes on and on. Our kids have to work two; some- ber translating for my own mother. I remember “The state missed a huge opportunity – what times three times harder than kids in other commu- going into the health center on Washington Street does it mean to own a public school district? The nities. Odds are against them – the minority com- with my mother. She was going to get a PAP smear. state has a laboratory right here in the palm of their munity knows they deserve excellence, the bar of I had to explain what was being done to her – at 10 hand. I’m here to say to Peter McWalters or whoev- expectations needs to be set high, at all levels, and years old,” she said. er will listen to me: We are open to that, we wel- that starts with the school board” she said. come that. We want our kids to have the best and The Central Falls school district is the only Informed by Two Worlds we’re here to cooperate.” state-financed district in Rhode Island and its school “I’m of Columbian descent, first generation. But When Cano-Morales arrived on the board, she board is appointed by the state board of regents. I’m as much a Rhode Islander as you are. said, “the bar was on the floor.” “There was tons of In 2005 Anna Cano-Morales accepted an Obviously I live in two worlds. I have these deep nepotism, the level of accountability and level of appointment to the Central Falls School Board of roots; it’s my Columbian heritage. I’m also a very respect was not there.” Trustees. “I don’t think I picked the school board - proud Rhode Islander.” July 20th will mark her third year on the school it picked me. The opportunity came to me.” Cano-Morales is also proud of her Central Falls board. She’s seen some changes during her tenure Cano-Morales said it was a very interesting sit- upbringing. It is here where she is committed to as well as ongoing transformation, but “we’re just uation she walked into. There were gender dynam- making a difference. starting, we’re just revving up,” she said. ics and generational gaps. She was one of three During the past six months, the Central Falls “I hope to leave the Central Falls community women, all minorities. The remaining three board school board has been reconstituted. Four new and Central Falls school district in a much better members were older men – two elected officials, members were appointed and Peter McWalters, RI place than when I found it. It deserves better.” www.sheshines.org winter 2006/07 she Shines 13 she shines interviews

Ruth Jellison with daughter Kathy Jellison, now both are recognized as Women of the Year. photo by Agapao Productions just lessons torch passes from mother to daughter to . . . by Lisa Piscatelli Commission on Women. During the ceremony, she profit sector. This is where I work for the most part. thanked her mom saying, “Mom who was always The nonprofit sector – repository of our values, all uth Jellison grew up looking at the words politically active and smart, who worked hard in our that we hold dear, those things that define us as a of Virgil above the school chalkboards: community, owned her own business, who volun- people – arts, education, communities of faith.” R “The noblest motive is the public good”. teered, who picketed, who spoke truth to power in Contributing as a volunteer in various organiza- She made sure her children learned this early. her loving and persuasive way. I thank you for your tions and as a mentor to a student at Sophia “Mom taught me that the universe is on the side of generous heart and mind and for teaching me to Academy, Kathy Jellison says, “If I mentor, it is justice,” Kathy Jellison says. Her mother was recog- invest myself in things that matter.” because so many have and continue to mentor me. nized in 1971 as the Kiwanis Club’s first woman And speaking about her own long history of For me, mentoring is that rare win-win situation “Man of the Year”, due to her successful bond-drive work in non-profit organizations, Kathy Jellison where we are all teachers and all learners – offering efforts for the Woonsocket Harris Public Library. says, “There are three legs of the stool that hold up encouragement and experience, listening and Kathy Jellison recently received a 2006 Woman our society – the public/government sector; the pri- responding, mutually investing in each other’s of the Year award from the Rhode Island vate/business sector; and the third sector, the non- future.”

14 she Shines winter 2006/07 www.sheshines.org let’s talk shop

70’s. “Our ability to control our repro- Gifford wrote the ductive issues, our lives, our bodies, book, How Are We her calling It is available our choices, our children was very Doing? limited. Those struggles have always for purchase through activism homegrown informed my life,” she says. Contributions . by Lisa Piscatelli clear stages of growth, allowing the Her father died when she was 14. Magazine Gifford reads client to proceed without taking on “We received social security after my ayle Gifford, president of books about organi- undo risk. Now this client has opened dad. I understand the power of that zational change. Cause & Effect, challenges the a new office in California. benefit. It’s a very personal experi- Gnotion that a nonprofit’s This flows from her Gifford herself asks a question, ence. We would not of survived with- concern for social justice, issues of resources are limited. Rather, nonprof- “Something I have been grappling out that benefit.” Her mother raised poverty, discrimination, civil rights, and its are constrained at times by not with a lot, how much is enough? I four children by running payroll for civil liberties. These issues have always looking out- think the largest nonprofits have to local businesses. As a child, Gayle been part of her life. She gets to do this ward enough. ask that question.” Gifford was not fully aware of the everyday with her professional work at “We are only Money is not more important than family’s struggle with money. Cause & Effect (CEffect.com). limited by our photo by Agapao Productions mission Gifford says, “It’s not that Her activism started over women’s book image courtesy of Gifford ability to money isn’t important, it allows us to issues in high school. The messages of imagine the achieve things that we might not have what could or couldn’t be done were way to make otherwise. But, the center of the work everywhere. Gifford was one of three know Hitler was elected. Never think Gayle Gifford solutions. We is the good that it does for other peo- girls in high school allowed to take your vote doesn’t count.” are rich in partnerships and we are rich ple.” She says that nonprofit organiza- auto mechanics, but that was a battle Gifford has voted in every elec- in resources,” Gifford says. She identi- tions exist due to public trust, a ‘phil- fought hard. “It was a knock out drag tion since that day. Thiemann left a fies her role as engaging in the world anthropic moral compass’. out fight to take that class,” she says. big impression on Gifford for her pol- and listening to what her clients need. Referring to the golden rule as a Gifford’s mother and grandmother itics, courage, and philanthropy. Celebrating the company’s 10th guide to ethical behavior, she says, are two of the extraordinary women of These days, Gifford’s number one year anniversary, she jointly devel- “We have a moral obligation to each whom she spoke fondly. But, she passion is the Rhode Island Council oped a consultancy busi- other. That is what our struggled through tears describing the for the Humanities. She is the chair ness with her husband, and has been on the board for almost “Our work is society is about and the influence of Anneliese Thiemann. Jonathan Howard. Their second we lose sight of Back in ’76, Thiemann was an five years. Gifford believes the primary clients are non- our life, our that is when we get into older woman living in a carriage humanities help us make meaning of profit businesses and gov- vocation. Our trouble . . . Your actions house in Jamestown during the sum- our lives — where were we, how did ernment agencies. focus is helping have impact on the world.” mer and then in an old North we get to where we are now, and allow How do you get peo- Raised a Roman Kingstown home for the rest of the reflection upon where we are going. ple to care? Gifford organizations Catholic and although year. Thiemann was a refugee. She Making sure that her integrated believes it is to give them make communi- steered away, she feels received a pension from the German life of activism doesn’t tip too much a vision of a positive ty change, to that her core is embedded government, kind of reprobation for on the work side rather than on the future. She says, “A vision what she suffered. This money she family side is a constant struggle. make our world in Catholicism. Gifford of change that excites says, “I think there is an donated to causes. Also, the expense of health insurance them and engages them, a better place. obligation to give, help, Thiemann read 38 publications a concerns this family-owned business. that they can see and feel That is what we lift up. [The tradition] month. Gifford loved being around Married for 23 years, Gifford and and hunger and thirst for. do,” says gave you a sense that her and enjoyed lunches with this Howard have three children - twin 17 People give to their there were issues bigger bright woman interested in the world. year-old sons and a 22 year-old daugh- dreams and if we forget Gifford. than you.” In discussing a newspaper article, ter. The daily family conversation is that, it is really hard to She cites a Holly Thiemann found out that Gifford was about peace and justice, civil liberties, raise resources and connect people to Near song, “I ain’t afraid of your not registered to vote. Thiemann human rights, international issues, our issues.” Yahweh. I ain’t afraid of your Allah. I immediately told Gifford that she school reform, and neighborhood bet- She sees a great challenge for ain’t afraid of your Jesus. I’m afraid could not step in her house again until terment. “They [the children] are very nonprofits, recognizing that they are of what you do in the name of your she registered to vote. And then interested in the bigger issues of the aging in the way they connect to peo- God. I think that resonates pretty Thiemann proceeded to tell Gifford world. We don’t force them to do stuff, ple. Gifford suggests that the older, strongly,” Gifford says. her own story. because it will evolve for them natu- more established institutions are going A similar theme echoes as she It began with her employed as a rally by being exposed. When they to really have to think about how to recalls events in history, “Nonviolent social worker in the prisons of find the issues that resonate the most make connections with young people. direct action required courage . . . it Germany. Caring for the jailed for them, they’ll move on that.” She is delighted by the growing num- has transformed. Look at India. Look women, Thiemann offered them com- Gifford says, “Bottom line in ber of youth based organizations and at the civil rights movement. I think fort. When able, she assisted in get- business is profit. Bottom line in a is watchful in understanding their new those are the lessons that we need to ting then released. The Nazi’s eventu- nonprofit is changing the world. Now engagement of community. take.” Gifford thinks that we need to ally caught on and Thiemann was the irony in that, we [Cause & Effect] Describing a business plan devel- hear more of these lessons instead of tipped off to an arrest list. Thiemann are in business to make money. But, oped for a youth service organization the messages of violent power. narrowly escaped to the United States. we’ve chosen this line of work in Worcester, Cause & Effect set up Gifford grew up in the 60’s and Thiemann’s words to Gifford, “You because it is our calling.” www.sheshines.org winter 2006/07 she Shines 15 9 in her helping to find your trust words words it

Lesléa Newman is the author of 50 books for adults and children. Her titles include the writing guide Write from the what to write about Heart, the short story collection A Letter to Harvey Milk, the novel In Every Laugh a Tear, the poetry collection Signs of Love, and the children’s books A Fire Engine for Ruthie, The Boy Who Cried Fabulous, and Haciko Waits. Visit by Lesléa Newman lesleanewman.com to learn more about her work. photo and image courtesy of Newman

The way the light falls The graceful arc of your neck across your face in the morning as you stand slicing vegetables as you move from dreams into day and the salad that needs something else The way you pause The way the cat purrs one hand on your hip when you lift your head from the pillow the other on the refrigerator door The slap of your feet against the wooden floor The sound of fork against plate How she weaves herself ice cube against glass in and out of your ankles the scraping back of your chair How your wrist twists as you open a can the rush of water in the sink the plop of the cat food and the flush of the toilet down the hall and the bend of your back as you place her dish on the floor The steady creak of the rocking chair The sound each drop of water makes and the shadow it casts on the wall against your skin in the shower The way the windows fill The way you pour tea into a tea cup with indigo and then turn dark and butter toast and the stark beauty The thrust of your arm into a jacket sleeve of your own reflection in the glass and the way you slam the door as you look up startled by a distant clap of thunder Your thoughts as you type letters or change diapers serve food or clean houses The occasional turning of a page like a sigh and how you feel when you have five minutes to yourself and the cat asleep with her head on your arm behind the bathroom door The crease between your eyebrows The way you sing off key with the radio on the way home and the way you bite the tip of your pen The lurch of the car as you shift into third The endless blue lines The flock of birds that stretch across your notebook that passes like a shadow overhead page after page after page and all the trees disappearing behind you like a million empty horizons that only you can fill The squeak of the mailbox lid with all the words and the letter from your next to last lover that make up your life.

16 she Shines winter 2006/07 www.sheshines.org in her words

added benefit of making busy females family time valuable to both members why they spend time volunteering of the family and the com- by Jennifer Belliveau of them still make time to contribute significant munity as a amounts of service to their communities? In part, it whole. It can may be in an attempt to instill values into their kids. improve fami- ith the fast pace of modern life, it seems A youth from a family where at least one parent ly communica- W like women today are getting pulled in volunteers is almost twice as likely to volunteer as a tion, create a all directions at once. Work, kids, friends, faith youth with no family members who volunteer, and new generation organizations, exercise classes, and those rare nearly three times as likely to volunteer regularly. of dedicated moments alone fill every hour of every day. There are many other considerable benefits to volunteers, and Considering the time crunch that many women find those who choose to volunteer. Volunteering pro- most importantly, it’s fun! themselves in, it may seem surprising to find out vides important experience for professional devel- To start making a difference in the community that in Rhode Island today, women opment. Volunteers make networking on your own, with a social group or women’s club comprise the largest volunteer base in Considering contacts, prove themselves to be leaders or as a family, get involved! Go to vcri.org and the state. the time and learn and cultivate new skills that click on “Find a Volunteer Opportunity” on the left In Volunteering in America: State crunch that they might not be able to get on the job. side of the page. Do a quick search on this page, or Trends and Rankings, a new study many women The social benefits to volunteering are click on “Try a Full Search” to really narrow down released by the Corporation for find themselves enormous. People who give time to their the options. The website makes finding a fun and interesting opportunity easy. You can plug in your National and Community Service, it is in, it may seem community make new friends, feel val- age range, interests, zip code, distance willing to determined that the average or typical surprising to ued and needed, build self-esteem, gain volunteer in Rhode Island is a woman self-confidence and constantly have that travel and groups you would like to work with to find out that in around the age of 44 who volunteers an good feeling which comes from knowing receive volunteer opportunities that are tailored to average of 40 hours a year for educa- Rhode Island that they made a big difference in some- all your requirements. These listings are from the tional or youth services as a coach, ref- today, women one else’s quality of life. Those who vol- more than 950 agencies around Rhode Island that eree, tutor, teacher, or mentor. As a comprise the unteer are also proven to live longer and recognize the valuable and varied services that whole, residents of Rhode Island each largest volun- remain more mobile and happy in old women can provide to help each agency fulfill its year contribute an average of teer base in age. mission to help others. 23,762,425 hours of volunteer work. the state. Some women may hesitate to vol- Given the Independent Sector’s dollar unteer as it has the potential to take them The mission of the Volunteer Center of Rhode value of volunteer time, this number totals away from their families for even more time. Family Island is to connect people and opportunities for effective volunteer community service.This is done $428,674,150 of service to the state, and more than volunteering is an excellent solution to this per- by promoting volunteerism statewide, connecting half of this comes from adult women. ceived problem. Many nonprofits across Rhode volunteers to community needs, building the capaci- In every state, females volunteer at a higher rate Island offer volunteer opportunities that the entire ty for effective volunteerism through training and than males. Nationally, women who work volunteer family can participate in, from parents and grand- consultation, and by collaborating with community at higher rates than women who are not in the labor parents to the youngest children and sometimes stakeholders where volunteers are involved. force. If women today are so busy, why do so many even the family pet. Family volunteering has the photo 2006 © sxc

a quote from herstory

She was born Agnes Goxha Bojaxhiu in Skopje, Macedonia. But Mother Teresa felt a calling early to Mother Teresa serve the poor. She founded the Missionaries of 1910-1997 Charity and focused on serving the dying. The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to her in 1979. Six years after her death, Mother Teresa was blessed by Pope John Paul II. “Do not wait for leaders. Jone Johnson Lewis. “Mother Teresa Quotes.” About Do it alone, person to person.” Women’s History. RL:http://womenshistory.about.com/ od/quotes/a/mother_teresa.htm. 10/12/2006

Mother Teresa monument in Tirana, Albania. photo 2006 © sxc www.sheshines.org winter 2006/07 she Shines 17 in her words

evening walk by Ann Khaddar more ancient - wilder - than ever. The trunks and branches that drew little notice in the green flush of summer now show themselves scarred, etched with ’ve been trying for days to write something evidence of growth and passing time, and striped Iabout service as an essential component of life, with lichen. sustaining and necessary to both helper and benefi- The crumbling stone walls along the road are ciary, and moving us all in wet from recent rain, with rusty fallen leaves cling- the direction of peace and ing to them randomly and hovering around their survival, even in the face bases. A chipmunk skims along a length of wall, his of destruction and fear. small back flashing auburn in the waning light. The church, and library - stand around a miniscule com- But every approach sound of my step sends him vaulting up an embank- mon, still serving the public purposes they were I’ve taken has seemed ment too quickly for my eyes to follow. built to fulfill generations ago. The war memorial either derivative (“Native The air is warm for November, and no wood recalls children of the town who died far from the American tradition recog- smoke is mixed with the smell of damp pines nee- silence of this humble crossroads. On a rise beside nizes the interconnected- dles and moss on the still-soft earth. There is no the church, ancient dark slate grave markers slant ness of all creatures and blush in west or east as the sun grows lower, only a erratically, like distracted parishioners lost in their the inevitability of what deepening of the gray that has dominated the sky divergent thoughts. Beyond them, the heavy sky happens to one affecting all day. presses against a protective line of trees; soon it all….”), or exploitative In November in my old town, I would be will be as dark as the web of their black and out- (“The Amish families who lost their daughters to a watching the last of the cormorants take off from spread branches. shooter this fall chose compassion and service over the surface of the cove, leaving it rippling behind I am walking up a steep hill to my house when vengeance as a way to elevate their souls in the face them. I would be hearing the Canada geese encour- a very large bird glides into view. Its great wings of their grief rather than debase them….”), or age one another in flight, flying so low sometimes are fringed in distinct feathers with rounded tips, preachy (“Greenhouse gases emitted by the wealthi- that the flapping of their wings would be audible. and their undersides, as the bird passes low over- est nations threaten the delicate balance of survival Here I’ve seen few geese, and the seabirds follow head, flash brighter than the sky. It tilts as it for the poorest people in the world….”), or just other routes, coastal routes, to their winter homes. engages a higher eddy of air, showing its white plain dull (I’ll spare you an example). Wild turkeys, though, are everywhere. Flocks head and neck, pale beak. An eagle. So I’ve chosen to write about something entire- make themselves comfortable on low branches and At home, I bring it all inside with me. And I ly different. shed roofs, and cross yards and roads unhurriedly, stay out in the night with all that’s touched me. I took a walk on a country road as dusk was with heads bobbing in a neighborly way. I wait for gathering. In my inland town the maples and oaks a group to cross, and one or two glance at me with- are old and very tall. Their bases are enormous, and out concern before spreading massive wings to Ann Khaddar is a freelance writer living in Central Massachusetts. [email protected] their roots grip and lift the soil around them like scale a wall and then fade into the woods. great fingers squeezing clay. Now bare and set The route home takes me through the heart of Khaddar photo courtesy of Ann Khaddar. against a darkening sky, the trees look taller and town, where three simple old buildings – town hall, Heart leaf photo 2006 © sxc.

18 she Shines winter 2006/07 www.sheshines.org play a role that’s unique in that I have the company’s liability as a responsibility, but I also have the human responsibility. So in my world it is never black and white. It is very gray.” Garneau is an employee relations specialist II at CVS/pharmacy, a Fortune 50 company. shining She has worked there for almost 20 years. How are you active in your community? “I am involved with Reading is with Fundamental and Project Smile.” She is also serving her second term on the Kim Garneau YWCA Northern Rhode Island’s board of directors. “My contribution has been my ability to bring the human resource aspect of my background and also tech- nology. I look at it as an opportunity to self unify women, to encourage team work and decisions - void of a male perspec- tive which is not always common. Define yourself? “I think that I am very young and very old in spirit, at the same time. I have to say that I am passionate. The things that I love, I love deeply - talent which include my family, my work, and my volunteer spirit. It goes beyond the What are your talents? “I was a profes- YWCA, but totally the YWCA is my pas- sional belly dancer. I love horseback rid- sion. I am a product of the 50’s. I’m a ing. I really have a passion for cooking baby boomer. I have had an opportunity and I really take it to the next level. It’s to see the country change in a lot of beyond just the cooking. I make this an dynamic ways and I think that I am really experience. Play music every Sunday and a product of that. I’m driven. I think that I have a glass of wine. I prepare meals I am very career driven. But also, I give Kim Garneau prepares a meal in her Woonsocket home. “It’s for my family and members of my extend- back a lot.” Garneau is 51 years old. open house at my house and my family just comes over and we ed family like in-laws. I usually prepare eat and drink and have communion with each other,” says five to six full dishes. I sing like a fool in Garneau. interview by Lisa Piscatelli and photo by Agapao Productions my kitchen, dance, and just enjoy the aroma. And then my mother comes over community 2007, there is still a lot of oppression. and tastes and samples everything along And in many parts of the world its very time with my family members. It’s open house What is community? “For me community dangerous to be a female. I feel health at my house and my family just comes expands beyond Woonsocket. Although issues are another huge concern and I Tell me about your family? “My hus- over and we eat and drink and have com- because I am a citizen of the city, it is don’t always think that health issues band, Michael and I actually met when I munion with each other. We love it, love Woonsocket. I love its diversity. But com- related to women get enough focus and was 14 years old. I met him through my it. My cooking is from scratch. If I’m munity really is a spirit. In my mind, dollars. Everyone is concerned today aunt. We began dating when I was 17 and adding garlic, its from the clove. If I’m community can be extended out to other with the issues of Iraq obviously, and I I was actually married at 18. And I will making a cake, I’m sifting the flour. cities, other states. Community is a sense am not any different than anyone else in say that if I were to meet my husband Being French everything has a sauce. I of family and belonging.” that regard.” today for the first time, I would absolute- have pictures of food because I love food ly be attracted to him. We are really like so much.” Do you vote? “I do. I carry my board of Why be involved in community? “I think life and soul partners. He is a fantastic canvassers card with me. I was very that in general in order to be happy you gentleman. We have been married 33 proud to get it when I was 18 years old. have to be in service some how. If you years.” Garneau’s oldest son, Michael, is And I have never missed an election. I can find a passion and turn it into serv- musically talented. Her youngest son, treasure am very proud of that.” ice, it’s amazing what you’ll get back. But Keith, is married and lives in NH with his I think that most of us are here and we’re wife, Dawn, and their daughter, Ava. “I What do you treasure? “I treasure my What issues in the news concern you? to serve a purpose. So if you can get out- am very proud of my family.” spiritual connection with a higher power “I am concerned about the treatment of side of yourself and turn that into some- and also my spiritual connection with my women in other countries. I am appalled thing that you’re giving, it’s the yin-yang What do you see as your responsibility as ancestors. I feel it very strongly. And and also surprised that in 2006 going on thing. It always comes back.” a business leader? “I feel as though I that’s a gift. I treasure that.”

“ . . . I joined the ywca. I love the fact that we can together as women -- have fun, accomplish wonderful things for the community, and have that tie.” - Kim Garneau www.sheshines.org winter 2006/07 she Shines 19 YWCA Northern Rhode Island, 514 Blackstone St., Woonsocket, RI, 02895 Non-Profit Org. TM US POSTAGE PAID she Shines 327 Woonsocket, RI www.sheshines.org