FREE Community Community Newspaper Connection February 2010

Wealth in North Central Edition

Many diverse agencies from North Central and Regina provide an array of programs and services that aim to improve the quality of individual, family and community life of neighbourhood residents. These organizations share common interests such as the effectiveness of their program efforts and the long-term development of the North Central community. interagency forum

Testimonials - Together Now Interagency:

“Networking through the Together “Amazing group - networking Now Interagency is a great way and building capacity while to let inner-city residents know saving money. It just doesn’t get that the Canadian Red Cross any better!” delivers several programs designed to improve the quality of their Leona Quewezance Program Director lives, and is here to help when All Nations Hope personal disasters - such as house 2735 5th Avenue fires - strike. Through the Together Phone: 306.924.8424 www.allnationshope.ca Now Interagency, we are also able For several years North organize and act together to discover and understand the Central serving agencies to share ideas and efforts. needs of many members - includ- “It has been a great opportunity have recognized the inherent ing the North Central Family to share with other agencies the value of sharing information, The Together Now Interagency Centre where we now provide work Souls Harbour Rescue supporting one another, both Network aims to gather and Babysitting Courses to enhance Mission is doing in our existing personally and professionally, connect many community- the basic skills adolescents require facilities as well as our new and in co-operating on projects based agencies and govern- to care for themselves, siblings and daycare and youth centre opening and events. The “Together ment organizations. Network children in their care.” in 2010. I have also appreciated Now” interagency forum grew gatherings and committees the chance to network with staff from the need to work together. also welcome the participation Dee Friday, Regina/Aboriginal Outreach from other agencies, and we have The network is a continuous of concerned citizens. Co-ordinator and organized effort to create The Network is built upon Canadian Red Cross been able to work together as a synergies among many the principles of inclusive 100-2050 Cornwall Street result.” Regina diverse players in human community development, 721-1600 Paula Katzberg services. The network exists to voluntary participation in www.redcross.ca Campus Manager maximize community benefits networking, sharing of Souls Harbour RESCUE Mission and strengthen community. leadership responsibilities www.soulsharbourrescuemission.org/ Network participants when required and encouraging b e l i e v e good things happen co-operative and collaborative when people think, talk, social action. Without INSIDE community service, P2 Community Voices Dream Brokers The Network will hold Interagency gatherings up to 4 or more we would not have a times per year, at least quarterly. The gatherings are ad-hoc strong quality of life. P3 All Nations Healin’ thru Artz and inclusive in nature - that is, whoever is able to attend is It’s important to the P4 Dear Auntie welcome to attend. There is chance to share current information SEARCH and to hear a guest presentation about particular community and person who serves human service topics. Participants are encouraged to bring and as well as the recipient. P5 Intercultural G’mothers Uniting distribute printed information to foster strategic partnerships and Traditional G’mothers Guidance co-operation. It’s the way in which we ourselves P6 Canada 2010 Moment Festival P7 PARTICIPATION AND NETWORKING GROW and DEVELOP. P8 Public School News Agency participation in the “Together Now” Network is voluntary -Dorothy Height Community Gardens and this is a fundamental principle of the Network that is a notable American Activist strength. Participation is open and inclusive to anyone who P10 Community Calendar wishes to join in gatherings, committees, projects or events. It P12 Noble Snapshots of NC is assumed participant agencies have a strong interest in serving NC Wish List North Central individuals, families and groups. 2 NCCA Community Connection Current Issues February 2010

In the Eye of the Storm by Alvin Deegan ‘08 Trying to end my deadly ways ‘Cause a lot of stuff like my dreams will So I educate to find peace and meditate get swallowed up Concentrate on this fiery element Prayed for my enemies and all my Demonstrate because it’s clearly painful memories development Prayed for positive energy and for a cure Prosper by Alvin Deegan ‘08 The rage within burns at my intelligence or remedy But I refuse to go where felons went Prayed for the friends I see, Gaining humanity to stay true to me So I ask my saviour Whose frustrations seem to stretch So I can spread unity in my community “How do I get rid of this bad behaviour?” throughout for centuries Not the scrutiny of stupidity, I don’t want to burn “’Cause it’s crime I’m against” Prayed for the smudgings, sweats, and at the stakes “Turning my back to strangers fasts, my traditional identity So I learn from my mistakes and what used to be whose path is danger” Prayed for my emotions, my regrets and Now I’m stepping up, you can see the firm on my face I was told to pray, a powerful line of wrath so I can switch with serenity ‘Cause it’s my turn at the plate, in this room of peace defense Prayed for the deceased, who left and I want to ease my heartaches and earn what I make Seen the signs of the end passed My sacrifice is a fact in life and I grasp it tight So I cherish and relish my time that I’ve Prayed for my healing, my dealings Carrying this torch and I’m willing to pass the light spent with feelings Because I realize I don’t have to fight by uniting the red Prayed so hard so tears ran down my There’s a question I awake to each with the black and white cheeks morning This is not the ‘new me’, it’s the ‘true me’ My plan’s now to speak and not bottle up The question is… And I’ve always been, doing my duty Getting rid of the ugly and embracing the beauty The sun is shining, do I let the storm in? My brothers sharing their experience, I’m hearing them So I don’t have to experiment HAVE YOUR SAY! Contribute an opinion piece to future issues of North Central For a number of years, I was running on fear Community Connection! Community Voices - Your Voice. But I now know that emotion is false so my face is running with tears It seemed my fate was hate and now everything is Left to right: Ryan McKay, Patti Pelletier, Paris Campre, Darcy coming so clear Gamble, Madisson Gamble, Peter Papequash involved with When I’m in the circle, I feel it disappear OHL (Outdoor Hockey League) and they were chosen to be My connection with depression was a large amount the first to use the new rinks at the Co-operators Centre (new And my permission with submission put me arenas at Evraz Place) on December 17th, 2009 down for the count But I’m like a ball so you know I’ll bounce And the Leo in me is ready to pounce like Simba So heed the lumberjack’s warning, TIMBER!!! The negativity made me weak so it’s strength that I seek I want to praise the Creator and give thanks for the peace that dwells inside me… Dream Brokers IN NORTH CENTRAL

by Jan Morier photo courtesy of Kitchener School

he Dream Brokers program in North are in place. Sometimes in cultural demonstrated their commitment by investing TCentral offers great fortunes of hope! programs, such as beading or powwow in practice. Regina Community Basketball Launched in 2006 as a legacy project to the dance, programs begin but may not return. program is another successful match. Summer Games, Dream Brokers is a unique For a popular set of existing art classes, Students enter into and are motivated to program for youth living in the inner city. It at the Neil Balkwill for example, Dream continue to be more involved. aims to give children a level playing field, art Brokers register students and purchase studio or music room! The Dream Brokers supplies. In all cases, students’ skills are Sabrina Coté-Brooks is a Dream Broker at serve to eliminate any barriers standing matched with opportunity. The pairing up Sacred Heart School. She is a graduate of between youngsters and their dreams. can be geared to individual students who Scott Collegiate and says “I love working Being a Dream Broker is a dream job for shine. An anonymous donor assists with a with and learning from our youth. I believe Garett Mathiason who has been involved taxi account for individual youth to get to there is a lot to learn from them if we as since 2006. He was hired to start the classes. adults open our eyes and listen.” Sarah program at Herchmer School until its Honeysett is taking on Sabrina’s duties closure in 2008, at which time he moved to The Dream Brokers have definitely while she is on mat leave. Shana Cardinal Wascana Community School. observed increased self-esteem in the makes dreams happen at Kitchener School. student body over the 3 years of the The program began as a 4-year legacy Garett explains how he surveys classrooms program. Garett explains “It’s gratifying to project, due to end this June 30. What does to get a feel for the students’ interests. watch kids come to realize their own skills. the future hold for Dream Brokers? Joe Some available programs are offered at Success depends on their willingness to Daniels, Aboriginal Sport Development, schools to save costs of transportation. trust their skills and how they’re matched. Manager for SaskSport is optimistic. “We For sporting activities for qualifying kids, These improved skills and self-esteem build are working on a funding framework for the Dream Brokers collaborate with KidSport identity and character”. Garett has watched program to continue past June 2010. It is . Garett assists parents or a group of 7-8 who has consistently been anticipated that 3 more years of funding will social workers in filing out forms for children involved with the program since day one. be secured to continue the Dream Broker in their care, and he educates caregivers as Garett contemplates his favourite example Program”. to what resources are available. of the success of Dream Brokers and believes the girls involved in the popular There is great wealth in the power of dreams. Counsel is given to individual students to gymnastics program have shown a positive pursue programming or lessons outside progress. Coaches have identified some Dream Brokers Team: City of Regina, Regina school. Interest and accessibility seems to students as being skilled enough to join 2005 Jeux du Canada Games, Sask Sport, gear more to sports where more offerings a competitive program. The youth have , February 2010 Current Issues NCCA Community Connection 3

Have you ever wanted to act or be involved behind the scenes? Do you sing or dance in front of your mirror wishing to be on stage?

Want to tell Your Story? Have your voice heard? NOW is your opportunity! ANHTA is proud to be facilitating a variety of artistic workshops which resumed in January, until the performance on March 31st.

‘All nations Healin’ thru Artz Inc.’ is a non-profit after school multi- disciplinary arts organization that links professional artists with at-risk youth and young adults in variety of workshops.

ANHTA also provides elders and motivational speakers from the community to participate in workshops to offer moral support for those youth who are struggling.

Registration is FREE for those aged 13-29 interested in the following categories:

W Script development/Creative writing W Acting/improv W Visual & graffiti art W Hip hop & choreographed dance ~ facilitated by Monica Fogel, GM of Artistic Programming by certified professional artists in a safety- approved dance studio.

Our rehearsal space right now is held at 1355 Albert Street (use back I’m so poor I can’t even pay attention. Ron Kittle, 1987 entrance) every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday!

Supper is provided from 5:00 – 5:30 pm followed by a Sharing Circle from 5:30 – 6:00 pm. Workshops from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

2009 Trophy for the Chimatawa The more after school programming made available to the youth, the better off the community will be. Chili Challenge. Who will take the Just watching recent events unfolding in prize this year? North Central Regina over the past months – it’s obvious that there is a disconnect between our young people and their sense of belonging in the community.

Dysfunction is learned at a young age, and some youth are safer on the streets having a false sense of belonging in a gang. Some youth are lost in the judicial system; falling through the cracks, substance abuse or desperately searching for a family connection. Some predators luring these vulnerable youth are older siblings, relatives or extended family members that have not been brought up in a positive family way.

And as a result we have multi generational dysfunction as learned and accepted behaviors. 2010 CHIMATAWA YOUTH All Nations Healin’ Thru Artz acts as a platform to advocate the hidden issues some youth/young adults face within their inner city communities. hili Challenge ANHTA aims to promote change and influence opinions, thoughts, direction and general ignorance towards a better awareness and FRIDAY, MARCH 12 understanding.

~ 5 P.M. ~ All Nations youth group gives a voice to the otherwise voiceless; a face to the faceless; and an opportunity to change perceptions. Indian Métis Christian Fellowship When you see the youth perform and the momentum it brings, we hope to inspire personal interest and create a selfless desire to help promote 3131 Dewdney Ave. change in our most vulnerable communities. Registration & fee required for youth groups Inquire how you too can contribute. Ask yourself “How Ms.Monica Fogel For information and to register can I assist or volunteer to GM of Artistic Programming call Betty at IMCF Ph: 359-1096 promote healthier families and 205-1477 [email protected] lifestyles?” 4 NCCA Community Connection Current Issues February 2010 SEARCH Stay in the present – focus on Student Energy in Action for WHY ARGUE? finding a solution to the issue. Regina Community Health Don’t think about all of the other times the issue or other issues by TaraLee Houston Sure, there are times when you Why would you want to spend came up. need to stand up for yourself. But, the quality time that you have SEARCH is a student-run inter- for the most part, we tend to argue with your loved one constantly disciplinary health care initiative for the sake of arguing. Many arguing? So, I was thinking that what this situated in the North Central times, we just want to be right. newspaper needs is an advice Community of Regina. This student Choose your battles – stand up This kind of bickering can waste column. I am proposing “Dear -run initiative provides access to for yourself when your wellbeing time and hurts relationships. Auntie”. I will be happy to answer clinical and social services in an after is at stake. For letters from the community. I am hours clinical setting. SEARCH is a example, say “no” For example, you a certified life skills coach. I hope non-profit organization and we are when you are too tell a friend to to keep it light hearted and simple. supported by the Saskatchewan tired or busy. meet you at 2 p.m. I will avoid letters that are too Ministry of Health, the Regina and they tell you personal or too pessimistic. I will Be assertive, not Qu’Appelle Health Region, the that you told them be doing this on my own behalf, aggressive – Four Directions Community Health 2:30 p.m. So you as a private citizen. Therefore, I simply state what Centre, the North Central Community argue, get mad, will remain anonymous. you need or what Association, the , start calling names your position is on the University of Saskatchewan, the and someone’s the issue without Submit your letters to: First Nations University of Canada, feelings get hurt. attacking the other person or their “Dear Auntie” and the Saskatchewan Institute of It is obviously a simple mix up. position. For example, “I need Applied Science and Technology. Does it matter who is at fault? North Central you to help with the baby more Is it worth a heated discussion? Community Connection Students representing many by taking a turn changing her What would happen if you simply 1264 Athol St. (2nd floor) disciplines are involved in SEARCH or feeding her.” Instead of: “You let it go? Regina, S4T including; nursing, medicine, social better shape up or else!”. work, health studies, kinesiology, or e-mail to: Sometimes an argument about Don’t get sucked into an argument clinical psychology, education, dental [email protected] one thing can bring up past – just keep repeating the same hygiene, physical therapy, human disagreements. You argue about response and the other person justice, Arts & Science and others. the lights being left on and then will have no choice but to drop it. pretty soon you are bringing up real measure of Students are currently co-operating the time in high school when Think win win – look for ways that 0 with faculty members from the the other person copied your both you and the other person your wealth University of Saskatchewan, homework assignments. And it come out winning instead of one University of Regina, SIAST, First goes on and on. winner and one loser. is how much Nations University of Canada, with the represented colleges as well as you’d be worth with community organizations. if you lost Our Vision for SEARCH is people living healthier lives through accessible, all your money. appropriate, and available after- hours primary health care services www.nccaregina.ca vAuthor Unknown provided by energetic, motivated interdisciplinary care providers. Our Values are:

1. Building on strengths to respond 2010 INTER-AGENCY to community identified needs. 2. Providing a quality healthcare initiative including clinical services and social programming. 3. Understanding social hili Cook Off determinants of health care and WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 well being. 4. Providing learning opportunities ~ HIGH NOON ~ in an interdisciplinary environment. Indian Métis Christian Fellowship Entry: $5. or more* 3131 Dewdney Ave. Fundraising for in the 2009 Inter-Agency Chili Cook PLACE YOUR AD Relief Efforts in Haiti Off Champs: All Nations Hope AIDs Network Donations over $20.00 will be North Central Call issued a tax deductible receipt Will they win again? Community 791-9888 Vegetarian Chili welcome! Who will beat them? Register with IMCF 3131 Dewdney Ave. Who has the HEAT? Connection Ph: 359-1096 Who has the HEART? February 2010 Current Issues NCCA Community Connection 5

Intercultural Grandmothers UNITING

by Jan Morier f you’re looking for wealth in North ICentral, then you need look no further than Intercultural Grandmothers Uniting. Then you know you’ve hit the Grand Mother Lode of experience and

wisdom! Services - U of R AV photo courtesy

25 women recently gathered at IMCF (Indian Intercultural Grandmothers Uniting is a network of First Métis Christian Fellowship), and not all were Nations, Métis and other older women begun in 1993 to seniors. Some, like me, attended to soak up the varied build bridges of understanding, respect, friendship and trust experiences, the hundreds of years of life and energy present in the room. between the races and the generations. For information The women sat in a talking circle and passed the ancient talking stone about upcoming activities and to learn how you can get involved in the network contact the Seniors Education (and modern wireless microphone) to introduce themselves and share their Centre (University of Regina) at 585-5816. interest in attending. Some admitted that over the Christmas break they truly missed the grandmotherly power and were so happy to be together again. A couple of women even travelled from Grenfell and Moose Jaw. It’s the significant changes in the school system in the last 30 years. quite the sisterhood! She noted how the simple act of sitting here sharing our knowledge demonstrates that change. What is difficult is running up against The guest speaker was Grandmother Ruth Cameron from the Speakers misunderstanding people who have no intention of changing or Bureau of the Office of Treaties Commissioners in Saskatoon. Ruth offered making change. “If you don’t want to be educated,” Cameron said the group a primer on treaties, emphasizing that we are all treaty people. “it’s bad for everybody.” She relayed her own childhood of attending a different residential school than her siblings. Ruth was quick to remind those with similar experiences A universal truth is that we are all getting older. Ruth says she to break free of the ‘your people did this to my people’… when it should be enjoys being a grandmother. “Sure, my bones hurt – but sitting and stated that ‘history’ did this to them. She urged us all not to condemn the complaining hurts more!” church or the government, rather to forgive and understand by sharing the accounts. The IGU meetings begin and end with a prayer, then a visit over bannock and coffee. Those who could joined hands in a Round Ruth offered basic definitions and short stories around treaties, how they Dance. There was a feeling of unity and great wealth among these have influenced us all, past and present. She is so happy to acknowledge women, there was an atmosphere of positive change.

Members of the Intercultural Grandmothers Uniting have met regularly in Regina since 2003 to learn about issues of concern and to share their own experiences. Some meetings have speakers, others are Talking Circles where Grandmothers share their stories with other IGU members. These meetings are open to all older women who believe in the purpose of IGU. Speakers are available to give presentations to groups of all ages that are interested in building cross-cultural bridges and addressing racism.

Traditional Grandmothers’ Inc. Guidance Centre by Jan Morier

ragedies can bring about peer support circle for children (now Tminor miracles of change. young mothers) who were raised in The disappearance of little Tamra foster homes. These members of Keepness in 2004 prompted the “The Healing Journey Home” had grandmothers’ call to action. They never seen a Round Dance, heard saw an urgent need to offer traditional the songs or participated in feasts, teachings and guidance to youth who so the grandmothers took them to were being lured into gang activity. reserves to re-connect. Volunteers at the centre instruct Cree and Beatrice Laframboise gets direction Saulteaux languages along with from her dreams, and her dream was the Seven Sacred Teachings. With to open a centre to promote healthy more support the Grandmothers lifestyles through cultural traditions. would revive the Recovery Circle for addictions, a program called “Healing Traditional Grandmothers’ Guidance the Warrior”. Centre was launched with a grant and is maintained by private and Beatrice is proud that similar corporate donations, community programs have since been introduced support and fundraising efforts. Lately at Cowessess and Sakimay First Beatrice Laframboise at the Traditional Grandmothers’ Guidance it’s been kept afloat with money from Nations and within the city. She Centre located at 2901 5th Avenue their own pockets. Viewed from a maintains her networks from her funding perspective, they’re not rich. previous position as an addictions But their wealth of knowledge and counsellor, as an Elder at Dale’s House and currently as Elder for the Traditional Grandmothers’ Guidance Centre has friends their willingness to share is making Tipi Keepers at Red Ribbon House. in Rita & Carmen Melinkovic (Travel Gallery), Regina a huge difference in our community.

Food Bank, Ba’hai Community, Wascana Progress Club, The Grandmothers refuse to give up. More women are needed and the Saulteaux Junction, Chief and Seniors of Piapot First Nations centre wants to get grandfathers and others who have helped along the lean months with rent Feeding the body with soup and involved too. With only three and bills. Terry Tuharsky and Brian Drayton (Corporations bannock twice a week brings people volunteers they have as much Branch) are invaluable in the centre’s administrative efforts into the centre. Programs such as programming as they can handle. to become more self-sustaining. An Advisory Board is in “Healing Through Beading” and Beatrice asks “Where are the place composed of people who share in the grandmothers’ the “Sharing Sewing Circle” are grandmothers? Please come and vision. good ways to talk the pain out. The Kokums saw a need for a parent share your strengths.” 6 NCCA Community Connection Community Interest February 2010

Fusion Canada’s Nikki Jacquin and North Central Community Association’s Jessica Hanna - two key organizers for the “2010 Moment” FREE Community Festival held in January A 2010 Moment FESTIVAL Partners & Supporters

Fusion Canada North Central Community Assoc. North Central Dream Team Ranch Ehrlo Jack and his father are SEARCH brand new Regina residents Morning Star Ministries who came to the Albert Four Winds Gospel Scott Community Centre Healing Hearts to volunteer for Fusion Indian Métis Canada’s “2010 Moment” Christian Fellowship

Bringing≈ Young People and their Communities

Together photos by Gordon Howell and Jan Morier Jan and Howell Gordon by photos

A cOMMUNITY is a group of people who have come together, & they WORK & they LIVE to try and improve the standard of living and quality of life ~ and I don’t mean money. With 8 William Baldwin American Actor Hope

Empty pockets never held anyone back. Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that.

-Norman Vincent Peale February 2010 Brought to you by Scott Collegiate NCCA Community Connection 7 Message from the Office Activities at Scott Congratulations to our Vice Principal Nancy Buisson who was appointed Principal of and Beyond! George Ferguson School commencing January 6th. We extend our sincere thank you to Nancy for all her hard work here at Scott. Her caring attitude for our students will definitely be missed. Rod Allen Principal Replacing Nancy is Mike Tomchuk. Mike joins us from where he was one of their Learning Leaders for the past two and a half years. We welcome Mike to the Scott community.

Both our boys and girls basketball teams are now in mid-season and are doing very well. Please feel free to come out and support the teams. We also have a dance team, improv team, and Life 101 cooking club that are active at this time. A big thank you to the teachers Mike Tomchuk for all the time they’re committing to these Vice-Principal extracurricular activities.

Finally, semester 2 began February 1st. We, Christmas Luncheon hosted by Scott Collegiate for its feeder schools – of course, welcome any new registrations as well. In addition to Kitchener, Albert, and Wascana – teacher Kelley Christopherson is serving. regularly scheduled classes, we will be offering the opportunity to gain course credit through a Hip Hop music project once again connected to Dr. Charity Marsh at the University of Regina, a Voices in Print project that will connect students to an artist/photographer from Common Weal and SIAST’s applied photography program, Scott students work to pack a container of supplies to be sent to Nepal through the SaskTel “We See You” Program. In this picture Chasity Benjoe, Gary Harding and an Entrepreneurship Project set up through the Paul Martin from ASTI, Katherine Bergman from Big Sisters, Jaylene Boulding from SaskTel, Aboriginal Education Initiative. Additionally, we have several grade Jane Ventocilla (her back), Brandy Watson, Chris Quintal, (Kyle Ness from 12 students who will be given the opportunity to obtain credits SaskTel behind him), Summer Delorme, and Kirsty Laevens from SaskTel through a team–teaching approach led by Mrs. Kuntz and Mr. McKay.

Please contact the school for any additional information on these or any of our other educational opportunities.

Sincerely, Rod Allen Mike Tomchuk Principal Vice-principal

Ph: 523-3500

by Jordan Laframboise

I believe that heroes come from anywhere, do anything, and succeed at what they do. Stu Foord was born on September 23, 1985. He plays for the Saskatchewan Roughriders as a running-back. He is not from Nigel. K North Central, but he grew up in Regina. Thom Collegiate was the I believe Brett Friday is a high school he graduated from, hero because he spreads the and then he played for the Regina awareness of aids, and H.I.V. He Thunder before he got into the does his work at the Red Ribbon, Canadian Football League (CFL). I AM VEGAN! by Credence M. and has been a resident of the Every home game is played at community of North Central for Mosaic Stadium located in North I am not a hippie or a tree-hugger. I don’t wear tie-dyed shirts more than a year. He helps people Central. He was signed in 2008 or eat salad for every meal (once a day is enough for me, cope and deal with the virus to and has been on the team since. thanks). And I don’t chain myself to trees, although we should show them life is not over. He Stu is not a starter, but I believe probably stop bull-dozing all of the forests. I have a cat, not helps put up round dances, and that he will be in a few years. I a goat or a cow named ‘ZEN’. I am moralistic, not a ‘health marches to spread awareness, believe that he is a hero because nut’, and I drive in a car, not the ‘Mystery Machine’. I can and find a cure. He is a hero he graduated from a high school understand others’ opinions, too. I believe in tolerance, not because he wants to help people, in Regina and now plays for the and then they can reach their full Roughriders. Some people may insinuating my ideals, thoughtful protest, not extremity, and potential in life. His occupation is agree that he is a hero, but not that you can’t change the world with violence and animosity. a life skills coach, he also deals for North Central. I believe that A vegetable is a fine gourmet food, a pig is a great friend with many different issues people when you succeed for a city, you (if a little vain), and it is called ‘flourishing’, ‘healthful’, or may have. He helps people find are a hero for that whole city, not ‘lively’, not scrawny. Canada is a large exporter of beef and and understand the root of their just a part of the city. Stu may fish, a fanatic supporter of the seal industry, AND a home to problems. He shows them how to not be form North Central, but he animal friendly ethics, anti-cruelty agendas, and enlightening handle and maintain a good life. shows heart and dedication, and schools of thought. He wants to help people in need, that if you try hard enough, you his heart, and mind is in the right will succeed. Stu Foord is a hero My name is Credence, and I am Vegan! place. This is why I think he is a for all of Regina, including North North Central hero. Central. 8 NCCA Community Connection Community Interest February 2010

Public School News Upon reading the plan growing at many Regina schools, instead of and speaking with declining as predicted. One reason is the by Carla Beck community members, number of families moving to Regina under I was concerned about the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Happy New Year key aspects of the plan. It did not address, Program. The success of this program had to everyone in and some cases seemed to perpetuate, not been anticipated in the original plan. It Subdivision 5! concerns held by me and others in the needs to be carefully considered now. Also, Please allow me to community - concerns such as class sizes, the fact that Regina is experiencing a baby introduce myself. environmental sustainability, reliance on boom has been widely reported. In 2008, My name is Carla fossil fuels, and the declining health of Regina General Hospital recorded the Beck and I am children. I became involved in the advocacy highest number of births in 10 years. This the newly elected group RealRenewal and served as one of trend is expected to continue and must be Public School Board its spokespeople until I decided to run for factored into future planning. trustee for this area. election. My husband and I have lived in the Subdivision for In the coming weeks and months the province the past 15 years and our three children all attend RealRenewal has endured, as has the 10- will announce the budget for the upcoming school here. year plan, but much has year. The Board will changed since the plan receive updates on I was a member of the School Community Council was first introduced. “I will continue to enrollment and class at my children’s school for several years when I Most significantly, the sizes. We will also meet became more engaged in Board happenings in the province announced in promote the value with the Ken Jenkins fall of 2007. It was then that the Regina Board of the 2009 Budget that it school community. That Education (RBE) unveiled a 10-year Renewal Plan. was making changes of small, walkable, school has been cited Rationale for this plan included declining enrollment, to the Education for closure at the end of maintenance deficits in school buildings, and Act. These changes neighbourhood this year with the final concerns about student achievement. mean that local decision to be made in democratically elected schools.” March. As always, it is While it included promising changes to classroom boards no longer have important for community instruction—by pursuing project-based learning and the ability to set their own mill rates. The members to have their voices heard. By flexible teaching groups - the plan also included the province did increase funding to school doing so, you help shape the future of proposed closure of 12 elementary schools and 2 boards in that same budget, however, given education. high schools (Herchmer Community School, Stewart the current provincial economic situation and Russell, and Usher Collegiate were closed in the the fact that a new provincial funding formula Right now, I have more questions than spring of 2008). It also included program closures. for school boards has been further delayed, answers. However, I remain committed to The French Immersion program at Wascana it is difficult to predict the level of funding that the principles that I ran on and will continue Community School (discontinued Spring 2008) is will be provided to school boards in coming to promote the value of small, walkable, an example. Several new school buildings were years. This is deeply concerning and is a neighbourhood schools. I endeavor to listen proposed, including one in the combined Wascana- concern shared by School Boards across to all views in Subdivision 5 and to work with Herchmer areas. The large integrated facility at Saskatchewan. you towards what is in the best interests of Scott Collegiate is another example. Regular mill- students. rate increases were factored in to cover increased Another significant change has been in [email protected] ph. 530-3320 costs. the area of enrollments. Enrollments are The views expressed in this column are my own.

The North Central LETTER TO THE EDITOR Community Association is looking for artists to Dear Jan Morier: paint outdoor murals over the summer. If you are an Thank you so much for including my article, artist who would like to get on behalf of the John Howard Society Regina involved in the community Council, in the December 2009 issue of the North and showcase your work Central Community Association’s, Community by Jessica Hanna around North Central Connection newspaper. phone Jessica at 791- Somewhere, underneath all this snow, our 9888. I wish however to bring to your attention one gardens are sleeping. But the neighbours who small omission which I’d left out of the article nurture them come summer need your help now inadvertently. In Paragraph 3, I mentioned that to guide the dream along. one of my duties as JHS Caseworker was to 3Community Meeting help pass out Sunshine Bags at the Regina The North Central Community Gardens to organize gardens: Correctional Centre every Christmas. It is are looking for committed volunteers to help February 16, 7 pm Board important to note that “I merely assist” Chaplain organize the gardens - to plot the plots! We Room NCCA Sandra Reid of the Salvation Army, who works need people who know about North Central, in conjunction with staff inside the RPCC in this about gardening, planning events or those who valuable connecting activity. In other words The 3Garden Steak Night! want to learn one of these valuable skills. We Salvation Army are the people who make a little Tuesday April 20 at The will be making decisions on what types of plants bit of Christmas Spirit possible for every single Bushwakkers to put in the ground, organizing the planting inmate in the jail. day and overall maintenance of the gardens. We at the John Howard Society realize that no Garden Ambassadors are needed to educate 3Community Garden real extensive good would take place without and encourage all who want to volunteer over Planting Blitz - Saturday, the close working hand in hand of a variety of the summer. June 5

organizations and individuals in Regina, who help We are meeting on February 16 at 7pm at make the lives of people who struggle with daily the Albert Scott Community Centre Board issues, just a little bit better. Neighbours! We will be room. If you are interested phone Jessica having a “Beautiful North at 791-9888. Everyone is welcome. We will Respectfully yours, Central” contest again also be looking for people to help out in the this year Watch for more Murray Logan _ Caseworker gardens in the spring, no experience necessary. information in the coming John Howard Society - Regina Council The Community Gardens are located on the issues of your Community Phone 757-6657 Ext. 229 13-blocks of Rae, Retallack, Robinson and Connection. www.sk.johnhoward.ca Garnet Streets. February 2010 Brought to you by Indian Métis Christian Fellowship NCCA Community Connection 9 A Working Day Prayer

reator, C my Father in heaven May my words and actions bring honour to you. May your will be done in my life as it is in heaven. Bless me with the food I need today. Forgive my wrongs, as I forgive those who have wronged me. Purify my spirit that I may be respectful. Open my mind that I may learn your teachings for my life. Fill my heart with your Spirit that I may love in healthy ways. Strengthen my body so that I may work well today. Protect me and my loved ones and keep evil away from us. I ask these things as your child in Christ’s name. Meegwetch. Amen.

Indian Métis Christian Fellowship Building an aboriginal worshipping/working community serving spiritual and social needs. 3131 Dewdney Avenue, Regina, SK S4T 0Y5 Canada Fax: (306) 359 – 0103 Tel: (306) 359 – 1096 10 NCCA Community Connection Community Interest February 2010

Join a network of People for Animals From the Editor By Jan Morier volunteers who Fundraising Bingos - are interested evenings or Saturdays. Wealth in North Central. To the in helping in Contact: bingo@ untrained eye, it seems like an the community people4animals.ca The oxymoron. Some people aren’t of North Central. shifts are split so volunteers looking hard enough though. I Sign up for volunteer only have to work 3-4 hours see rich lives on a daily basis opportunities with many at a time rather than 6-7 hours. - very little of it has to do with community agencies who offer a Contact: saskpeopleforanimals@ affluence. Some of the most variety of activities. The project gmail.com giving and caring people live or We welcome Aaron Talbot, a is lead by a volunteer committee work in our neighbourhood. Sure, North Central writer whose and the North Central Community Chili for Children their agencies could do with observations appear on the back Association. Lunch for children is provided financial boosts to allow them to page. We hope to be hearing Monday, Wednesday, Friday 11:45 do their jobs more efficiently, but Call to sign up as a volunteer or from Aaron on a regular basis. a.m. – 12:24 p.m. our most critical the greatest wealth they share to offer a volunteer opportunity day being Mondays. Volunteers are has more to do with knowledge If you, like Aaron or Alvin on page Lisa - 766-7549 to submit info for needed to set up, serve, supervise and caring and experience. 2, have a rich talent to share with the bulletin email: lisa.workman@ and clean up. Sometimes, their example rubs our readers, please submit a rqhealth.ca off on others, and we see that piece. Help is needed with fundraising wealth spread around. Simple CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES efforts: selling raffle ticket and acts of sharing the workload I have just come inside from working at the merchandise bingos. makes for a true community. It shovelling for the third time RHealthy Food Store, 1264 Please call: 359-7919 helps to prevent the dreaded in three days. The storm has Athol Street (upstairs NCCA) 1 burnout if people’s work is seen presented the whole city with the volunteer every Monday 11:30 Please pass this bulletin on to to be appreciated. challenge of digging out. Won’t a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Assisting REACH friends, family, co-workers, church you please be a good neighbour staff: preparing produce for sale groups, school groups and any Wealth can sometimes be shared and clear your path, the public (bagging), and helping customers. others to help us connect with through donations of gifts in kind. sidewalk and maybe the one Call: 347-3224 potential volunteers. If you would That is why we have created a belonging to a senior citizen? like to receive future bulletins new column - a ‘Wish List’ (page Rainbow Youth Centre directly, please e-mail me: lisa. 12) - to encourage agencies to That’s how we share the wealth Young Parent Program works [email protected] swap or solicit needful things. in North Central. through educational programming and support groups. Childcare and To read about these and other agencies in our I have about concluded that wealth a weekly Playschool program is neighbourhood, visit the North Central portal website offered to the families. The hours is a state of mind, for volunteering in childcare are and that anyone can acquire a wealthy Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. All volunteers state of mind by thinking rich thoughts. require a criminal record check. Call: Kim 757-9743 www.northcentralregina.ca g Andrew Young, American Clergyman Community C alendar YOUTH WRITING CLASSES Four Directions Community Health Centre 3510 – 5th Avenue, corner of 5th Write your Story & Have Fun! Avenue and Elphinstone Street Monday – Ages 12 & up FREE! Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. Main Number Fridays from Jan 19 – March 26 766-7540 Check out the Doctors!! 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m Instructor: Judith Silverthorne For Nurse Practitioner and Doctor North Central Family Centre questions call Primary Care Services 2931 5th Avenue at 766-7541 or fax at 766-7542 for their Refreshments Available office here at 3510 – 5th Ave. Only when the last tree has died and the last river Call Judith @ 352-5838 for more information been poisoned and the last fish been caught will Nurse Practitioners are also available at 1056 Albert St. Call 766-7541 to book an we realize we cannot eat money. Cree Proverb Send in your events appointment or check on their winter drop- for the FREE LISTING in hours. North Central in Community Calendar or Announcements section of your SENIORS North Central Community WALKING GROUP Connection newspaper! nnouncements Deadline March 15! A What’s New at YOUR Regina Public Albert Scott Library! Community Centre ADULT WRITING CLASSES Multi Purpose Room Need Help With Your Homework? Tell your Story; Heal Your Life & Have can help! The Fun! Beginners Welcome! Homework Help program is for students Monday Saturdays from Jan 20 – March 27 in grades 5 – 12 who need support with Wednesday 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. their schoolwork. Pre-registration is not FREE! required for this free program. Just bring & Friday Instructor: Judith Silverthorne the appropriate texts and notebooks, North Central Family Centre plus assignment instructions Tuesdays 8:00 a.m to 2931 5th Avenue between 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. to the Coffee & Refreshments Available Central Branch (23111 – 12th Avenue). 9:00 a.m. Registration and Information If you are interested in becoming a Call Judith @ 352-5838 for more Homework Help volunteer tutor, contact information [email protected] for more information. February 2010 Community Interest NCCA Community Connection 11 From the President WRIGHT’S RAMBLINGS

o, how has 2010 been treating you to date? community, one of wealth: in people and potential. SGood, I hope. But if you are like me, you Our mix of cultures, background, and ages all get tested fairly regularly. And often, when contribute to the richness of our community. I approaching, entering, or travelling through our would not trade our area, warts and all, for any elder years—it is a health issue—family, friend, other area of the City. North Central is truly on or our own. But regardless of age, we have our the move towards our common goal of a safe, trials. healthy, caring community in which we are all proud. It is so easy to allow our problems colour the way we look at things, how we react with people, even Look around, see the progress; get excited, help to damaging our health. Instead of dwelling on it along. negatives we need to remind ourselves of how fortunate we are to live in Canada, Regina, and, yes, Blessings! May 2010 be a rewarding year for Tom Wright - President, especially North Central. Ours is indeed a special each of us, and for the building of our community. North Central Community Association

Submit your news, your point of view, your creativity in writing or art to your newspaper! NC Community Connection is delivered FREE to all North Central Phone List addresses in North Central and by e-mail around Schools our city, province, country and beyond. Current Albert Community School...... 791-8539 and back issues of our paper are posted on our Kitchener Community School...... 791-8516 website www.nccaregina.ca Sacred Heart Community School...... 791-7290 Scott Collegiate...... 523-3500 Community-based organizations can buy a full St. Luke...... 791-7248 page to get their news out every other month. Wascana Community School...... 791-8528 If you have an idea for a story or a feature Organizations & Agencies interview GET IN TOUCH with the Editor at the Aboriginal Skilled Workers Association...... 337-0400 contact information at the bottom of this page. AIDS Program South Saskatchewan...... 924-8420 Albert Library...... 777-6076 Albert-Scott Community Centre...... 777-7033 All Nations Hope...... 924-8424 North Central Community Connection is a bi-monthly newspaper published by the Bylaw Enforcement...... 777-7000 North Central Community Association Chili for Children...... 359-7919 (NCCA). The newspaper strives to be Circle Project...... 347-7515 fair and balanced in its coverage of news, Circle Project Childrens’ Centre...... 569-3988 current events and community issues. The Ehrlo Sport Venture Program...... 751-2411 Community Connection is written for the people of North Central Regina in hopes of Mission Statement of Fire Safety...... 777-7830 building community and providing valuable North Central Four Directions Community Health...... 766-7540 information. Community Association Gathering Place...... 522-7494 Indian Métis Christian Fellowship (IMCF)...... 359-1096 Editor: Jan Morier Design & Layout: Right Brain Working together Kids First Program...... 766-6792 Creative Services with the community Kids Help Phone...... 1-800-668-6868 of North Central Mobile Crisis Services...... 757-0127 Thanks to contributors to this issue: to enhance the quality of life Morning Star Ministries...... 757-8421 Carla Beck Alvin Deegan by representing, North Central Community Association (NCCA)...... 791-9888 Monica Fogel Four Directions promoting, North Central Community Health Office (Nurse)...... 757-1046 Jessica Hanna TaraLee Houston developing partnerships North Central Community Police Service...... 777-6450 Jan Morier Scott Collegiate and unifying Aaron Talbot Janine Taylor & our community North Central Family Centre...... 347-2552 Classroom of and its image. Oxford House Society of Regina Inc...... 205-3598 Scott Collegiate Pasqua Hospital...... 766-2222 Tom Wright Public Health Inspector...... 766-7755 North Central Community Connection is Rainbow Youth Centre...... 757-9743 distributed to over 4,000 households in the Regina Alternative Measures Program (RAMP)...... 352-5424 North Central area. Copies are also available Regina Education & Action on Child Hunger (REACH)... 347-3224 at the Albert Scott Community Centre and Regina City Police...... 777-6500 various North Central businesses. Regina Crime Stoppers...... 545-8477 Opinions expressed in the North Central Regina Fire Department...... 777-7846 Community Connection do not represent the Regina Food Bank...... 791-6533 NCCA. Regina Police Substandard Housing Enforcement Team..777-6399 We welcome all letters and submissions. The NCCA Board of Directors Regina Sexual Assault Line (24 hrs)...... 352-0434 editor reserves the right to accept or reject Rentalsman...... 787-2699 and edit all submissions. Tom Wright...... President Jordan d’Almeida...... Vice President R Healthy Food Store...... 359-0541 Greg Hamblin...... Treasurer Safer Communities & Neighbourhoods (SCAN)..1-866-51-SAFER DEADLINE for APRIL ISSUE Carol Kirk...... Secretary SaskPower (inspections)...... 566-2500 March 15, 2010 Saskatchewan Rental Housing Supplement...... 787-4723 Members at Large Souls Harbour Rescue Mission...... 543-0011 North Central Community Connection Street Culture Kidz ...... 565-6206 Mark Docherty 1264 Athol Street Transitions to Trades ...... 791-9530 Regina SK S4T 7V3 Cassidy McFadzean Alicia McQuarrie Welfare Rights Centre...... 757-3521 Phone: 791-9888 Women of the Dawn ...... 791-6504 Fax: 757-1052 Derrick Moore Kevin Nagy Did we miss your number? Want the number of your agency in this space? e-mail:marketingnorthcentralregina.ca Cindy Tripps Call us to add it: 791-9888 12 NCCA Community Connection February 2010

Hospital. Nobody outside running in the 4. I am off Rae, off 1st, near the tracks snow; nobody building forts or snowmen that cut up Elphinstone, Albert Street and or throwing snowballs. And still, there is a run to the railroad yard and beyond. All lonely charm to the park. A serenity worth sorts of people use this track as a short cut, the winter chill. And the bench, from where and walk beside it or on the wooden ties I sit, is a good place to be and relax. Even in regular, small steps. All sorts of people with the vehicles passing back and forth on like and dislike the train’s horn in the night, the sand and salt stained streets, I hardly which cannot be heard as of now. It of by Aaron Talbot notice them and lose all my tension from course is windy. The wires overhead move work. It is a lonely park, where the swings just enough to grab your attention whenever Some say, “beauty is in the eye of move all on their own in the wind. you’re really looking. Smoke puffs out of a the beholder;” a statement that I’ve rarely few houses; windmills spin and don’t let up. taken seriously. Not that it isn’t a serious 2. A white Jesus near the street, statement. It just so happened to pass shadowed by Sacred Heart School, is a Out here, there are only a few who under my radar. That is, until now. On pious donation. At this time of the day, brave the cold, with hands tucked into January 21, I travelled around North Central there are a lot of cars going past and I see their jackets, heads bowed, breath trailing to various locations to see what I could see. their reflections in the barred ground level behind. Some carry bags of groceries and I live in the area, so I’ve already seen the windows. And through those windows it freeze their fingers. area and know what to expect – but I’ve looks like any other colourful classroom. never stopped to take in my surroundings Nearby are more brick buildings. A white 5. When driving to a back alley, any as I would if I were in the rockies or by the house with green trim has a row of yellow back alley, in North Central, you will see ocean. In the 5 small months that I’ve been Christmas lights lit up. And it is not yet dark. streets in need of the grater; you will see here I’ve never slowed down from my busy A few blocks down, there is a tow truck and shoes up on a black wire above you; you pace to really look. And that is somewhat an officer and a man and a vehicle that is will see graffiti, boarded up houses, fences disheartening. being taken off the street and out of the kicked in, chipped paint, overflowing trash snow. The owner stands on one side of the bins and people. The people matter. Their Regardless, here are 5 mental vehicle and says something over the hood neglect matters. Their way of life matters. snapshots, fragments of our area of the to the officer on the other side. He does not It’s not the parks or the parked cars, or world and its subtle wealth of beauty that reply. the trees, or the old houses, or the brick we pay witness to whenever we turn off the buildings, or the shops, or the vacant television or shut down the computer and 3. Scott Collegiate looks big in these buildings, or the tight back alleys with step outside or stare out the window into our parts. Like Sacred Heart, it too is built out of character and telephone poles and garages neighbourhood. Our streets are only ugly if yellow and brown bricks. The small houses covered in snow that makes North Central we ignore them. around Scott can be folded up and stuffed different from the other areas of Regina; neatly into the school and onto its immense it’s the people, the ones who’ve been here 1. Shoe and boot tracks run through field – that’s how much the place imposes forever or who’ve just moved in. By living the snow. The park is without a soul under itself on North Central residents. It’s like here they ignore the fear from the rest a grey sky that doesn’t seem to move. a strange mountain stuck on the prairies, of the city, and prove with courage that it Though, there is some wind and the swings where children go and disappear and re- isn’t so bad, or prove without courage that on their chains sway and the branches do emerge throughout the day. There are some North Central has an appeal. They work the same. people walking by on nearby sidewalks of and they live and in that simplicity you find I have rarely seen children playing compact snow. They do not look up from an overwhelming beauty that no eye can in this park off King Street near Pasqua their paths. behold.

F North Central Community Assoc. 791-9888 is planning to place electronic signs at ransition to Trades key intersections in our neighbourhood. The First Step in Building Success! We are looking for monetary donations to with North Central / funded by Can-sask go towards a community sign initiative. The sign will advertise neighbourhood agency and school events, accept has an incredible opportunity for you! business ads and post alerts. receive 16-22 weeks of Free training classroom & on the worksite Jane at Transition to Trades ph: 791-9530 Certificates - first aid, cpr, whimis, fall F needs a Sea Can (steel storage protection, sizzor / boom lift container)10’ to 15’ long F we sure could use a media projector for paid wages while in training our training presentations mon - fri 8:30 - 4:00 Paula at Souls Harbour RESCUE Mission Ph: 543-0011 1st ORientation HIRE A NEIGHBOUR F sturdy, bagless vacuum cleaner february 11, 9:30 a.m. F laptop to replace ours with a broken screen CALL NOW!! - women & men age 18 - 30 Do you need your snow shovelled, Monica (Ph: 205-1477) at All Nations Healin’ Thru light housekeeping or other home Artz sez: [email protected] 1459 retallack ph: 791-9530 maintenance? F we’re actually trying to find our own If you are looking to venue/space. A place ANHTA can call home. make some extra F oh, and a van! money, call the NCCA office Kokum Bea at Traditional Grandmothers’ Guidance 1262 Albert Street to become a Ph: 352-2241 (Albert & 7th Ave) registered worker F tables, chairs for meeting and comfy or to place a work sitting SGI Motor Licence Issuer Home  Tenant  Condo Auto order (handled by F electric sewing machine in good working Commercial  Farm the North Central order Community Centre). F Monday – Friday 8 – 8 help with grant apps Sat 9 – 5, Sun 12 – 4 F most of all Kokums and Mushums to Phone: 359-3331 For more information call NCCA at Fax: 569-2540 791-9888 become involved Web: www.smithsinsurance.ca