Bell Island Community Policing Newsletter
Community Policing - Everyone’s Business
Is it all Hype?
A Chuckle a Day
Remember
From Sarge’s Desk
October’s Stats
Our Youth - Our Responsibility
Spic and Span
Wabana Volunteer Fire
Department Report
The Bell Island Food Bank
Men Don’t Cry
Wabana Town Council Report
Stupid Criminals
Brighter Futures Family
Resource Centre
The Bell Island
Community Enrichment Committee
Sports Corner
St. Michael’s High School
Youth Awards
Court Watch
The Running Lady
Alcoholics Anonymous
Halloween and Bonfire Night
On the Web
Closing Remarks
Y2K. We’ve all heard about this and some of us may even have paid attention to some of the reports we have heard. It is now only 42 days away. What will happen? Is there any need to worry? Well, I guess no one really knows the answers for sure but the attitude towards the year 2000 has been quite positive. The government of Canada is confident that they have any problems associated with the coming millennium corrected and are confident they are Y2K ready. The Canadian Bankers Association (CBA), a professional industry association representing Canada’s domestic and foreign chartered banks, issued a Y2K guarantee in April of this year. They are stating that customers’ money and financial records will be safe and fully protected on and after January 1st, 2000. The RCMPolice has published a report in the Pony Express, a national RCMP newsletter, which relates it is all systems go for the Year 2000. The Force is ready. "Information technology (IT) specialist have known about the Year 2000 problem for a long time and when systems and applications needed to be upgraded it was usually done with that in mind" says Ted Cook, the project manager responsible for overseeing the IT side of the RCMP Year 2000 Project. He goes on to say "I am confident our systems will not have any abnormal glitches."
Power companies and utility companies expect there will be no disruptions due to Y2K reasons. Stan MacDonald, Newfoundland Power’s District representative on Bell Island states that Newfoundland Power is ready for the approaching century. No problems are anticipated but in the unlikelihood that something could go wrong they are prepared. MacDonald relates that one third of the Newfoundland Power staff will man all sub stations and hydro plants in the province during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Peter Kent, the Wabana Town manager, relates that the town is in partnership with other organizations in the town to prepare for any disruptions in service. "We are not expecting any problems but we are prepared in event of any trouble."
The main theme by all agencies is that everything is under control and that back up plans are in place in the remote chance that anything does occur. I guess no one can guarantee that the millennium will be free of computer difficulties but it appears an exhaustive effort has been made to prepare for the turn of the century and most feel the situation is well in hand.
The question on most minds probably is "What should I do to prepare?" The Canadian government indicates on its website (www.info2000.gc.ca) that it does not expect the Year 2000 date change to greatly disrupt our everyday life. They do advise that one should prepare as they would for the winter storm season. It is a good idea to have on hand: flashlights and a radio, extra batteries for both, and a three day supply of water and non-perishable food. The government is not advising that these supplies are necessary to make it through the transition to the Year 2000. Rather, these are normal precautions. If it appears that Canadians should take special precautions for the Year 2000, the federal government will let the public know in advance.
If you do not have a computer and you wish to obtain further information on this issue, you can call the following telephone number - 1-800-0-Canada (1-800-622-6232).
by Sgt. W. Hebb
The old man’s legs begin
To tremble and feel weak
Tears dampen his face
As the bugle begins to speak
A tune so pungent
Yet strangely haunted
Played for those comrades
Who stood undaunted
Long before this youthful crowd
Began their free existence
Wonder if...when he is gone
Will they go the distance
Hope burns in his being
Spreading over his wrinkled brow
That those few who now attend
Will get the message now
Remember without memory
See what you did not witness
Testify to the truth unknown
For faded pasts do not regress
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
Remembrance Day was well observed throughout Bell Island this year. Many residents and representatives from community groups came out to honor those who gave their lives for our freedom. The day started with a wreath being laid at the Bell Island Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 18 and then all participants attended a service at St. Cyprians Anglican Church before arriving at the War Memorial on Memorial Street. The ceremony here was complimented by the exceptional rendition of Last Post by Donald Hibbs, the bugler for the CLB Old Comrades Drum and Bugle Band. All participants were invited back to the Legion after the ceremony for a delicious luncheon.
A banquet and dance were held at the Legion on 99-11-12 in honor of the war veterans. A fantastic hot turkey dinner was enjoyed by all the guests.
Mr. James Walsh, MHA for the district along with a number of other honoured guests were in attendance. Reverend Douglas Barrett of St. Cyprian’s Anglican church was the guest speaker for the evening. When asked about this year’s activities, Mrs. Margaret Leonard, Secretary-Treasurer for the Bell Island branch of the Royal Canadian Legion said, "The members are pleased with the turnout this year.
The participation at Immaculate Conception Elementary and St. Michael’s High schools was tremendous. When we were talking you could hear a pin drop. We are exceptionally pleased with the 2410 RCACC Bell Island Cadet Corps efforts in the Poppy Fund Campaign."
There was also a ceremony at the Seaman’s Memorial in Lance Cove on November 11. Fifteen divers were brought to the site by the Ocean Quest and descended to lay a wreath on the wreck of the S.S. Sagnaga. Buglers aboard the Shennandoah 2 played last post after which a cannon was sounded in tribute to those who lost their lives .
A small reception was held on board the Ocean Quest after the ceremony.
It is heartwarming to see an increase in attendance this year and I hope this trend continues.
By Sgt. Wayne Hebb
The RCMPolice Bell Island Community Policing office responded to 40 requests for service during the month of October. The following are a few of the calls that were received:
On 99-10-03, a Bell Island resident reported that two Canon AE1 cameras, one Canon pistol grip flash and one Vivitar were stolen from either his residence on Bell Island or from his vehicle while it was at the Aqua Arena in St. John’s. The theft occurred sometime between 99-09-27 and 99-10-03.
On 99-10-04 at 3:15 pm, a report of theft of two computer speakers was received from St. Michael’s High School. At approximately 4:15 pm a 20 year old Bell Island man was arrested by police and found in possession of the speakers. The man was released and appeared in provincial
court in St. John’s on 99-11-10 and entered a plea of not guilty. A trial date of 2000-05-03 has been set.
A 32 year old Bell Island man was apprehended on 99-10-16 for driving a motor vehicle while disqualified. He was also charged with operating an unregistered vehicle.
On 99-10-17 at 1:54 am, the Wabana Volunteer fire department and the RCMP Bell Island Community Policing office attended the scene of a shed fire on the property of a Bell Island resident. The probable cause of the fire was believed to be an overheated wood stove.
A 41 year old Bell Island man was apprehended for impaired driving on 99-10-17. He appeared in provincial court, St. John’s on 99-11-10 and the matter was set over to 99-12-06 for plea.
A 16 year old Bell Island youth was found by police in a ditch on Steve Neary Boulevarde around 1:00 am on 99-10-17. The youth was very intoxicated and unresponsive due to consumption of alcoholic beverages. He was brought to the Walter Templeman Health Care Centre on Bell Island where he was kept over night for observation. The boy was released later this date. The youth has been charged with drinking under age and will appear in youth court at a later date.
On 99-10-23, a 50 year old Bell Island woman was apprehended for impaired driving. She will appear in court on 99-12-15.
On 99-10-25 police received a report from a Bell Island resident regarding a break, enter and theft into a vacant residence on Nish Jackman Drive. It appears entry was gained by breaking the living room window and entering same. The offence occurred sometime between 4:00 pm on 99-10-23 and 2:30 pm on 99-10-25. A box of rat poison and a small quantity of old American and Newfoundland coins were stolen from the residence. A black woolen cap and a rusty tire wrench were left on the scene by the person or persons responsible. This incident was particularly difficult for the complainant as her parents, who owned this residence, had recently passed away. An investigation is continuing into this matter.
On 99-10-29, a report was received by police regarding threats made by a 55 year old Bell Island man. The threats were alleged to have been made to two 12 year old Bell Island girls.
On 99-10-30, a Bell Island resident reported that a vacant residence on St. Pat’s Lane was illegally entered. Nothing was taken.
Our Youth - Our Responsibility
By Cst. Tony Griffiths
"We all did it." "They only do it once in a while." "Not my son/daughter."
If I heard these excuses once, I heard them a thousand times. These are some of the responses I have received when discussing young people drinking, smoking, or using drugs. It is responses like these that have let a problem of youth abusing these drugs grow steadily over time. A survey done within the last five years in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador supplied some shocking results. The average age for our children who start using tobacco, alcohol, and drugs is 13 years old. If this is an average it would seem to mean that there are those that use/abuse drugs, tobacco, or alcohol younger than this.
It often starts with cigarettes. They have been shown to be the "ice breaker," leading to use/abuse of alcohol and drugs. In Newfoundland and Labrador we have seen the use of tobacco and other drugs increase. It is often "boredom" or "peer pressure" that are listed as the main causes for the beginning of these problems. Despite warnings, education, and wide spread knowledge of the dangers of smoking our youth continue to get hooked on this very dangerous drug.
Laws have been changed, making it illegal to sell or give tobacco products to anyone under 19 years of age. Unfortunately, it is not YET illegal for anyone of any age to consume these dangerous cancer causing products. It is left for law enforcement officers to curb the selling of cigarettes or tobacco to youth. As we all know very few crimes take place in front of officers therefore our youth find it "easy" to obtain cigarettes and then have no fear of smoking them in public.
When it comes to alcohol and drugs, there is the idea that everyone does it, that it is no big deal if the kids drink on the weekends once in a while, or that it is other people’s kids -not our own that are doing it. The survey mentioned earlier, also found that one in three of our youth are regularly drinking EVERY weekend and some more often. One in three, I guess the excuse "not my son/daughter" may not be so accurate. The dangers of these "mind altering drugs" are even greater than those of cigarettes.
There are many in the community who are actively involved in the education of the dangers of drug use/abuse. But the pressures and disparity our youth feel today with lack of jobs, economic and social strains, and peer pressure to be one of the crowd, all lead them to try/use drugs, alcohol and cigarettes. Education is an ongoing and daily affair that we all must take part in. If we have kids or not, if ours are in trouble or not, we can all make an effort to improve our community by forcing the drug dealers and cigarette pushers out of business by getting involved. No, everything does not have to be reported to the police. We can take action by continuing the education process at home. Pressure store owners to check ids more carefully. Speak to anyone we see endangering their lives through drug use.
There are many different avenues we can follow in changing our community for the better. Free information is available from Addiction Services Centres, from Community Health offices, teachers, counsellors, as well as the RCMP Community Policing Office here on Bell Island. Presentations can be arranged on these and other topics to local groups and organizations. Videos are available on how to discuss these issues with our youth. To use these resources does not say there is a problem but only to become aware of and discuss the dangers and pressures of drug use/abuse.
So why do I write this? A number of reasons: because of our youth -our future, because I know the dangers of smoking, because of the risks of using drugs that come from who knows where, because of the effects these things can have on a young mind and body, because I have seen what can happen, and because I do not want to pick up another youth -EVER -passed out in the ditch from taking too many drugs/drinks. Think of the "what if’s".....
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
Spic and Span is a well known household cleaner but to me it often invokes the memory of a man that lived in the town of Sussex, New Brunswick. I was an impish ten years of age then and the streets of that quiet town were mine. I roamed the streets on my large balloon tire bicycle faster than a speeding bullet. Superman was my hero and I spent almost all of my twenty-five cent weekly allowance on these comics at the local drug store. I just couldn’t get enough. I had difficulty telling you who the prime minister of Canada was but I could tell you everything about this magnificent character. I knew his parents, his adopted parents, his powers, everything. I often wore a towel around the house and jumped down the stairwell until my mother yelled at me to stop. Then I went out in the backyard to find somewhere to practice my flying. "Practice makes perfect!" I often heard adults say so I was putting it to the test. How wonderful would it be to just spread my hands and soar above the streets and fields below looking for someone to save. I would fight the bad guys and hold collapsing bridges until everyone got to safety. There was just one thing. I couldn’t understand....why did he assume the secret identity of Clark Kent? Why didn’t he want to be know for all his good works? He was a hero and wasn’t it important that heros be well known? I finally satisfied myself that perhaps he just wanted a break from all the people hounding him. After all, there was more to life than just relaxing with a beer in the Fortress of Solitude after a hard day of saving the world.
Now back to the man in Sussex. I was a alter boy in the Roman Catholic church and went to church every Sunday because the priest at the time was a fire and brimstone kind of guy. We were sure he had a generous supply of one way tickets to Hell and he wasn’t afraid to put you on a train to that destination. No one ever slept during his service because he yelled the sermon. No, he’s not the man, I want to tell you about. When I sat on the alter, I would look out over the congregation to see who was there. Every Sunday morning, I would see this disheveled stocky man sitting alone in a pew about halfway from the alter. He was short, grossly overweight and around 50 years of age. His hair, what little he had, was unkempt, his face was unshaven, and his rumpled clothes probably had never seen the inside of a washing machine in years. He would remove his tattered hat on entering the church and saunter up to the pew....his pew. Everyone took notice when he entered the church and walked to the pew where he sat alone. You see he, sort of smelled bad, so no one sat in that pew and if the church wasn’t too full no one sat in the pew that was in front or back of this pew. Latin was the spoken language of the mass and there was no customary, sign of peace gesture where you shake the hands of the persons around you. I’m sure if that custom existed at the time, no one would have approached him. He was repulsive, there’s just no better way of putting it. When mass was over, he would hurriedly leave the church before people gathered on the church steps for a little yarn before going home to their brunch.
I only knew him as "Spic and Span". That’s what everyone called him. Not to his face of course, because I doubt if anyone ever talked to him. He was different....apart from the norm...an outcast of sorts. I often walked through the empty church to meet my parents on the front steps. I was kind of dragging my feet because, they would probably be speaking to the old ladies when I arrive. You know the ones with their hair in a bun and the big flowery dresses. The ones who pinched your cheek, stretching it out of shape while they told your Mom and Dad what a nice little priest you were gong to be someday. Yes, I would dilly dally hoping they would be gone when I got there. Though part of me wanted to stop at Spic and Span’s pew. I wanted to see the dark indentation on the seat of the oak pew where he sat. I marvelled how this could have happened because none of the other seats were like it, just this one. I would even put my fingers on it and trace its shape so I could see it was real and not just my eyes playing tricks. Certainly if my mother had seen me do this, I would have been dropped in a vat of lye soap immediately. But she didn’t know and neither did the old ladies. I would quickly walk to the door at this point, anxiously anticipating shaking the hands of these old biddies.
I travelled around Sussex a lot, usually with a buddy in tow, exploring everything we came across. We would wade in the shallow water of the river, examining the bloated salmon floating on the water. The rumour was that pollution caused their deaths but we didn’t think too much about this. We were too busy keeping a wary eye out for the dreaded lamprey eel. They could bite right through your boot and they wouldn’t let go, ever. On one excursion, we ended up around the dump. My parents warned me about going near there but when you’re ten you can rationalize about what exactly near means. Actually, they warned me about going to a lot of places but I guess what they don’t know won’t hurt them. We came upon a beat up old shack near the entrance to the dump. It was a building that had been pieced together from scraps of lumber, aluminum, cardboard and some other materials I wouldn’t be able to venture a guess at what they were. My buddy gasped as he said, "That’s where Spic and Span lives". Quietly, we approached to see if we could get a glimpse of this peculiar man but before we got too close, my buddy, threw a rock which crashed down on the roof of the dilapidated structure. I thought I heard a growl but I couldn’t be sure because we were running with all the power that we could muster. When we were far enough away, we laughed nervously over the fact of our narrow escape from most certain danger. He might have flattened us out by sitting on us and made us into a part of his house or what ever other terrible fate that came in his mind.
It was a couple of weeks after this outing that I saw him standing on the street corner. He was waiting for the light to change so he could cross the street. There were lots of people around at this time because it was getting close to Christmas so people were rushing to get all their shopping done on time. I was with a group of my friends when someone pointed out that he was there. We giggled as we watched him shift from one leg to the other, probably releasing a noxious gas, we imagined. Then in a moment of bravado, I shouted out, "Hey, Spic and Span". He turned and eyed us angrily and started to hobble in our direction. We mustered all the courage we could to stand our ground but fear engulfed us and we raced away to safety. I never thought anymore about this until Sunday when I saw him sitting in his pew. Was he staring at me? I couldn’t be sure because, I didn’t want to be caught not giving my full attention to God. I could feel that he was looking at me but how did he know. I was in a crowd of boys, so there was no way he could have picked me out of the crowd, was there? I couldn’t get my mind off this train of thought all through the mass and when it was over, I even tried to strike up a conversation with old fire and brimstone, himself to delay my departure. I was relieved when I walked through the church to see the empty pew. I don’t know why I had expected him to be there today, he never wasted any time leaving any other Sunday, I guess I was just being silly. The steps were empty as I opened the door to leave. My parents, obviously decided I was going to walk home this day. I froze. There he was, standing a few feet away, looking right at me. Before I could react, he grabbed my arm and dragged me close to him. I gagged from his strong odour and shook with fear when I saw the anger on his face. Then he spoke to me in a voice that sounded like a piece of plyboard being dragged over a gravel road. Don’t ever call me Spic and Span again". The anger swirled around his face but now I could see something else in his eyes. There was an unknown pain and torment there that went deep into his soul. It was over as suddenly as it had started. He let go of my arm and he walked away leaving me alone on the steps.
He continued to come to church but I never had any further contact with him. I moved away shortly after this and he became a memory. He’s probably long since dead by now but that momentary glance of his pain remains with me. I have no idea who he was or why he was like he was. I don’t even know his name and I’m probably not alone in that. Perhaps he was a veteran who fought bravely for our freedom and he could not handle the stress of the war. Perhaps he had lost a loved one and couldn’t move past his sorrow. Perhaps he was an artist whose work was never recognized. I just don’t know. I know that I judged him without even knowing his name and I wasn’t alone.
I often wonder did anyone know who he was or why he lived like he did. Maybe it was just his secret identity
Wabana Volunteer Fire Department Report
by Chief Jim Pendergast
The first week in October was fire prevention week, as with other years we had the students from both schools, Immaculate Conception and St Augustine’s submit a fire escape plan. We picked a boy and girl from each school. The winners were to be picked up in the Emergency Response Vehicle and taken to the fire hall for dinner. The winners were Terry Arnold and Janelle Jenkins from St. Augustine’s and Christopher Cole and Nicole Hussey from Immaculate Conception. Students were picked up on the 22 October and taken to the Fire Hall for dinner. All 4 students had a great time. The Fire Dept. and the RCMP were out on patrol Halloween night to keep an eye on the trick or treaters, and to make sure they had a safe and fun night. Firefighters who took part in the patrol were, Jim Pendergast Ron Barnes, Jim Pendergast jr.,Wade Reardon, John Taylor and Angus Sweeney. November fifth was Bon Fire Night and like other years the fire department and the RCMP were out on patrol checking on vacant houses and Bon Fires in the community. This year was very quiet with only a hand full of Bon Fires and not one call for any fire emergencies. Firefighters on patrol Bon Fire Night were: Jim Pendergast, Ron Barnes, Jim Pendergast jr. Jim Ashford, Gordon Stoyles ,John Taylor and Jabez Butler. Fire reports as of oct.1/99
Two False alarm
Two shed fires
Over heated oil stove
Structural fire
Chimney fire
Burning garbage
by Mary Murphy
Volunteers at the FOOD BANK are busy, busy, busy........ Everyone is involved in making crafts and baking for our CHRISTMAS
TEA, BAKE AND CRAFT SALE WHICH WILL BE HELD ON DECEMBER 11, FROM 1:00 P.M. TO 4:00 P.M. AT THE WABANA BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB. A ticket draw will take place for the following prizes:1st Christmas Nativity Scene
2nd Christmas Carrot Cake
3rd Christmas Mail Box
Everyone is invited to come and browse and enjoy the afternoon and support our FOOD BANK by having a DANCE with SANTA for only $1.00 ...................and MAYBE even win a SPECIAL PRIZE.
A REMINDER ABOUT THE SALVATION ARMY CHRISTMAS HAMPERS We have been asked to assist THE SALVATION ARMY with REGISTRATION AND PICKUP.
REGISTRATION IS DECEMBER 1ST AND 2ND FROM 11:00 A.M. TO 4:00 P.M.
PICKUP IS DECEMBER 22ND AND 23RD FROM 11:00 A.M. TO 4:00 P.M.
REGISTRATION AND PICKUP WILL TAKE PLACE AT ST. MICHAEL’S PARISH HALL.
Everyone must have the MCP NUMBER of EACH PERSON RESIDING in the HOUSEHOLD in order to receive their Christmas Hamper.
As always, we want to thank all of our many volunteers for their many hours of time given to the FOOD BANK.
We still have about 25 CALENDARS left. Anyone wishing to purchase a
UNIQUE GIFT for Christmas can call the FOOD BANK AT 488-2656.CONGRATULATIONS to the winners and a BIG THANK YOU to the people who donated the prizes and the volunteers who made this possible.
The Board of Directors and I would like to Thank the Members of "THE LANCE COVE DART LEAGUE" and all who participated in the DART TOURNAMENT held at Parsons Lounge on Saturday Evening November 13.
Special Thanks to John Hussey and The Executive for organizing this fund raiser and for donating the proceeds to the Food Bank. Special thanks also to Jeff and Terry Lynn Bickford for holding this event and for their additional donation. The money and especially the" GOOD WILL" of all participants is very much appreciated
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
Part III
"Billy....Billy, are you there?"
Startled from his trance he quickly jumped up and picked up the phone. "Yes, I’m still here". She continued on with gibberish that not even she could understand although she would have argued it made perfect sense. Finally, she mumbled goodbye and said she loved him. She didn’t hang up and a silence persisted between them until he said, "I love you, too". He heard the click of the receiver and he knew she was gone. At least for now.
"Die you old bag! Die and rot in your own crap!" He shouted as he slammed the receiver in its cradle. Anger seethed through his every pore, straining for release. He tensed his muscles and he clasped his hands in front of him. In them Billy could see her scrawny throat and he squeezed harder and harder finally falling back on the chesterfield in utter frustration.
When was it going to end? He asked himself aloud as he looked around the tiny, sparsely furnished apartment, this was his life. The social assistance cheque stub lay on the rickety coffee table. His unemployment insurance had run out two months ago and as much as he hadn’t wanted to he went to the social services office. He just couldn’t find a job but then even if he found one he wouldn’t have it for long. He had several jobs since he left home ten years ago, but he always managed to screw them up somehow.
"Lets face it I’m a failure! A lousy failure! A good for nothing bum!" Billy shouted in the empty room. He jumped abruptly from the chesterfield and went to the cracked mirror hanging on the wall beside the door. "You’re a worthless piece of crap!!!" His screaming reverberated throughout the apartment as he smashed his fist into the mirror. The mirror shattered and fell to the floor spreading shards of glass over the worn carpet. Splinters of glass mingled amongst the open cuts on his hand. The sight of the blood brought him to his senses momentarily and he rushed over to the kitchen sink. He washed off the blood and glass and wrapped his hand in a wad of paper towel. He slumped down on the lone chair at the kitchen table.
The Wiltshire paring knife lay amongst a pile of dirty dishes on the table in front of him. He picked it up in his uninjured hand and held it out in front of him. He stared at the knife intently. Uncle Paul had given it to him as a Christmas present four months before he died. It was a house warming gift because he had just moved into his first apartment in St. John’s.
He had lived with Paul for about six months after he came to the city until he could find a place of his own. The prospect of having his own apartment was dimmed slightly by having to leave his uncle but he was comforted by the fact that Paul only lived a twenty minute walk away. Laughter came easily although he found it difficult to be natural at first. He had been so happy at Paul’s. It was like a reward for the life he had up to then. His mother could only afford to call once a month and even though the calls were disturbing he soon forgot them in the warmth of his life with Paul.
Paul’s death had taken him by surprise. It wasn’t like his uncle went to the doctor a lot. The doctor told Paul he should have seen someone years ago when the pain first started but now it was too late. The cancer had spread too far and there was little that could be done. The cancer had only taken a couple of months to squeeze the last breath from him. Billy knew it was serious when he heard the doctor’s report but he had expected Paul to live longer than this.
The funeral was a small affair only a few of Paul’s friends were there with his mother and him. She came in on the bus the night before and the first stop she made was at the liquor store down the street. She went there before she even came to the wake. When she came to the funeral home she was so drunk she vomited on the carpet as she came through the entrance. Billy cleaned her up in the washroom and later stood painfully by while she slobbered over the body.
The service in the church and the graveyard had been mercifully short and for that Billy was thankful. He didn’t have time to express his sorrow as he was on constant watch for what his mother wold do next. When it was over his mother wanted to be brought to the liquor store. Billy tried to explain to her that it was Sunday and everything was closed but she wouldn’t hear tell of it. She continued her rantings long after they arrived at Paul’s house. Finally, he was able to borrow a bottle of whiskey from a neighbour. He gave her the bottle and although he seldom drank, he poured up a big drink for himself. Billy drank it down fast and poured another. He guzzled this drink and slumped back in Paul’s lazy boy chair. He passed peacefully out in the middle of his mother’s raving. TO BE CONTINUED......
by Peter Kent,Town Manager
The arena is one of the most valuable assets in a community. Everyone should support the activities that take place at our arena. Over the past number of years the amount of activity at our arena has decreased significantly.
There have been many large expenditures especially last year with the purchase and installation of a new chiller for the plant room. Minor Hockey, Figure Skating and all programs have decreased.
Please make a special effort to involve your children in the Minor Hockey Program, Figure Skating Program or whatever programs are available. Without the support of the community, the arena will not be able to operate.
JUNIOR BLUES HOCKEY:
We hope this will continue to be a family event, it is good to see the support this hockey team receives. Make a special effort to attend the Junior Hockey games and you will enjoy the excellent hockey played by our Juniors. Take your family out Saturday night to the arena.
FAMILY SKATING
This is a good program for exercise and to stay in shape. Check will Bill Ford at the arena regarding times for Family Skating.
SCHOOL SKATING/HOCKEY:
Many enjoyable evenings have been held at the arena with High School Hockey Games, we hope efforts are made to have this start again for our community. Contact has been made with the schools regarding a Skating/High School Hockey Program, maybe parents and children should encourage our school principals to plan and carry out a Skating/High School Hockey program this year.
MINOR HOCKEY:
Many Bell Island Hockey players are now in all parts of Canada and all over the world. Many of them were included in the Minor Hockey Program, where they got their start. Bell Island has contributed greatly to the game of Hockey. Children should be encouraged and supported if they show an interest in hockey, keeping in mind the earlier they start, the better they will excel in their future hockey program.
FIGURE SKATING:
For many years this has been a rewarding and enjoyable experience for many children, the numbers have been down in the last couple of years but the volunteers who carry out the program should be commended for their ongoing efforts to keep this program going. The Ice Show in the spring is the reward for the children and volunteers for this is a big event that everyone looks forward to seeing. Please consider enroling your children in this excellent program.
RECREATION HOCKEY:
This activity has decreased over the last couple of years. It used to be two nights a week with many teams participating. The league has now only four teams involved. This is a good league for persons who like to keep active and stay in shape. Contact Ches Maddigan if you would like to get involved in this program.
INCINERATOR - Over the past few months with the incinerator back in operation the amount of debris has decreased significantly at the dump site. Residents are encouraged to use the services provided by the garbage collection company. Persons who have to use the incinerator, please do so during the operating hours of 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM Monday to Friday.
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
Here’s a few more stories of not so bright criminals. Reading stories like this warms a police officer’s soul:
New Haven, CT: A bank robber was convicted and sentenced to 80 years in prison. His bank robbery was foiled when his getaway car, left idling outside the bank, was stolen.
Ionia, Michigan: When two service-station attendants refused to hand over the cash to an intoxicated robber, he threatened to call the police. They still refused so he called the police and was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct.
Glasgow, Scotland: William Gillen, 26, was arrested for trying to rob a Glasgow bank. Police put him in a line up but no one identified him. He was booked anyway after calling out from the lineup, "Hey, don’t you recognize me?"
Harreta, MI: A 30 year old man entered a Methodist church on Sunday morning and held the congregation hostage with a rifle. While police were enroute, one parishioner asked how much the gun cost; he said $500.
Another offered him $500 for it, and he accepted. The hostages took up a collection for the $500, he handed the rifle over, and the police arrested him.
Brighter Futures Family Resource Centre
By Holly Neary, Program Co-ordinator
Parents and caregivers of children ages 0 to 6 years this is the place for you. For those who don’t already know, Brighter Futures does a number of programs with children ages 0 to 6 years and their families. We have grandparents, family friends, sitters, aunts, and parents that bring children down to our many programs which are provided FREE of charge by Health Canada. Children must be accompanied by an adult when attending the programs so drop by and see what we have to offer that may fit your needs.
One program I would like to focus on this month is our PARENT’S & TOT’S program. This is our main program of interest for participants as it is for children and their parent/caregiver. This is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your child or one that you care for, while spending time in the company of other adults. Children get a chance to play with others and develop their skills in a number of ways, through water play, sand play, creative time, leisure play, dramatic play, social gatherings, and outings just to name a few. Also, parents can use this time to socialize with others for ideas, suggestions and friendships that can develop. Transportation can be provided to and from this program if needed with snacks for the children being provided during this time. This program is offered Wednesday and Friday from 1:00pm to 3:00pm each week, so drop down and have an enjoyable day with your child.
Some programs we have for the upcoming month are as follows:
for the following just drop by -
Nov. 23 - Parent’s & Tot’s
Nov. 26 - Parent’s & Tot’s Celebrity Reading with SANTA
Dec. 1 - Parent’s & Tot’s
Dec. 3 - Parent’s & Tot’s
Dec. 8 - Parent’s & Tot’s
Dec. 10 - Parent’s & Tot’s.
Dec. 17 - Parent’s & Tot’s Christmas Family Day
for the following phone to register in order to be able to attend -
Dec. 3 - Parent’s Christmas Dinner
Dec. 15 - Parent’s & Tot’s Christmas Party
Drop by or phone me anytime at 488-2699 or your public health nurse at 488-2702 and we would be happy to answer any questions that you may have.
Remember our children have a Brighter Future.
The Bell Island Community Enrichment Committee
The projects that the Bell Island Community Enrichment Committee undertook during the past summer were a great success. The committee is now gearing up with several projects to be completed over the fall and winter months. Residents can expect to see the posters very soon.
At this time the committee wishes to thank Mr. Gord Shea for his time, effort, support and contributions while he served as Chairperson. Best wishes go out to him as he leaves this committee.
Here is some food for thought: Anytime one person does a good deed, there is always another person who is appreciative. Which person will you be?
Your comments and suggestions are encouraged and welcomed. Help this committee serve this community! Thank you.
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
The cool air fills your lungs as you enter the doors to the Monsignor Bartlett arena. The odour of home fries wafts past your nose as you pay for your ticket and enter the stands. The Bell Island Junior Blues are playing and things are looking up. Two recent wins under their belt has renewed the team’s spirit. The Blues coach, David Brazil is confident his team is improving. "We lost a few players from last year but when things are in place, and they are coming together, we will definitely be contenders."
If the team’s 10-4 win against the St. John’s Junior Caps on Friday night (99-11-12) is any indicator, they are certainly on their way.
The team also played the CBN North Stars in Kelligrews on 99-11-15. The game went into overtime and Dion Durdle saved the day when he tipped one in to break the 3-3 tie with only one minute left on the clock. Shannon Gosse, Johnaton Bragg, and Calvin Power contributed with a goal apiece.
The Bell Island Junior Blues are presently in third place in the Avalon East Division with 6 wins under their belt. Two of the Blues players are in the top ten scoring list. Calvin Power is tied for 1st place with 13 goals and 13 assists and Dion Durdle is tied for third with 9 goals and 15 assists.
The next game on Bell Island is on Saturday night when the Junior Blues face CBN North Stars. Arena manager, Bill Ford is expecting a great game and says, "The team’s performance can only be enhanced by fan support. I would urge everyone to come out to the game. It’s great hockey." The game starts at 7:30pm at the Monsignor Bartlett Arena.
Greetings from St. Michael’s - one common complaint you’ll hear from teachers and school administrators is that "time’s flying by" and this is so true of this first semester. It’s already mid-November - and in another month it will be Christmas!
STUDENT COUNCIL EXECUTIVE ELECTED: Our congratulations to the following students elected to this year’s Student Council Executive: Jackie Carroll (Grade 12) - President; Chad Fitzgerald (Grade 12) - Vice-president; Christy Foley (Grade 12) - Treasurer; and Jennifer Hurley (Grade 12) - Secretary. Class representatives will be elected this week. Teacher advisers this year are Mr. John Connors and Mr. Wayne Clarke. We wish this year’s Council a successful and productive year.
OUR SCHOOL SECRETARY OFF ON MEDICAL LEAVE:
Our school secretary, Mrs. Angela Cobb is presently on medical leave. Angela underwent surgery last Thursday, November 11 and is now convalescing at home. We all wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to her returning to St. Michael’s. As our principal, Mr. Delaney has said on numerous occasions , "The school isn’t the same without her!". In the meantime, we have Ms. Crystal Parsley and Mrs. Theresa Benoit sharing secretarial duties; we wish both ladies an enjoyable and successful stay with us.
FORMER BELL ISLAND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS RECEIVE DEGREES AT FALL CONVOCATIONS: At Memorial University’s Fall Convocation in October, the following Bell Islanders received degrees/certificates: Wade William Parsons - a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Mathematics; Alison Lynn Reid - Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) degree; Melanie Lynn Kavanagh - Bachelor of Education (Secondary); Tina Ford - Diploma in Technology Education; and Bill Williams - Diploma in Technology Education. Also, Jennifer Clarke received a Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Psychology from the University of Waterloo at their Fall Convocation in October and Eileen Gear Bragg received her Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) from the University of Toronto at their fall Convocation also in October.
ANNUAL REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE - A VERY IMPRESSIVE SUCCESS: On Wednesday, Nov. 10 St. Michael’s held its annual Remembrance Day service. Present for the service were representatives from the Royal Canadian Legion, Fr. Doug Barrett of the Bell Island Anglican Parish, Fr. Fred Brown of St. Michael’s RC Parish, as well as a number of parents. The service consisted of an opening prayer by Fr. Barrett, a closing prayer by Fr. Brown and various readings including one on the poppy and "In Flanders Fields" and an excerpt from Gale Weir’s book, "The Miners of Wabana".
That excerpt highlighted the torpedoing of the ore boats on Bell Island in 1942 with a subsequent loss of 69 lives. Students were given the opportunity to place their poppies on 2 crosses erected next to the gym stage. A significant part of the service was the playing of "The Last Post" by band student Miranda Brazil. KATIMAVIK STUDENTS DOING GOOD WORK: The latest group of Katimavik students will conclude their work on Bell Island on Friday, November 26. Three of the students - George McWilliams from Kamloops, BC; Lisa-Marie Lafleche from Montreal; and Annie Lagace from Quebec City have been doing volunteer work for us in the library. Our librarian, Mrs. Rose Kent is delighted with the excellent work being done by these students and we are all very appreciative of their efforts on our behalf. On December 1st the group leaves for Brandon, Manitoba - we wish them well in their "new posting".
NOVEMBER PROGRESS REPORTS TO BE DISTRIBUTED TO STUDENTS:
Our students will be given their progress reports on Monday afternoon, November 22. On Tuesday and Wednesday of that week (November 23 & 24) we ask parents/guardians to call into the school secretary (488-2828) to schedule appointments to see teachers on Thursday, November 25 from 1:00-4:00 and from 6:00-9:00. We look forward to seeing as many parents as possible on November 25. Students will be dismissed at 12:00 on Thursday, November 25.
FIRST ANNUAL ACADEMIC AWARDS NIGHT: Thursday, December 16 at 8:00 pm in the school gym. The purpose of this awards night is to acknowledge and pay tribute to those students who received honors status on last year’s June report card. Also, high school diplomas will be distributed to those graduates of last June. We encourage those students and their parents/guardians to make a special effort to attend what we’re hoping will be the first of an annual tradition at St. Michael’s.
ST. MICHAEL’S TO OFFER A NIGHT COURSE IN COMPUTERS : We’re now in the process of finalizing details for an introductory course in computers and the internet to be offered in January. We hope to have more details in the December issue of this newsletter.
ST. MICHAEL’S 1999-2000 GRADUATION SERVICES: The weekend of May 12, 2000.
That’s the latest from St. Michael’s - all the best.
ST. MICHAEL’S HIGH SCHOOL
P.O. BOX 400
BELL ISLAND, NF A0A 4H0
TELEPHONE 488-2828; FACSIMILE 488-3800
PRINCIPAL’S E-MAIL ADDRESS: jgdelane@stemnet.nf.ca
The RCMP Bell Island community policing office has presented double movie passes to two Grade Twelve students of St. Michael’s High School. On Thursday 99-11-18, Cst. Boyd Decker, in co-operation with school officials, presented Melissa Pitts and Mary O’Rourke with their movie passes for excellence in academic performance and attendance. Congratulations to Melissa and Mary for a job well done. I hope you enjoy the movie.
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
A number of persons charged with offences
which occurred on Bell Island were processed through the provincial courts
during the month of November:
On 99-11-08, a 29 year old Bell Island man was arrested in St. John’s on a warrant for offences which occurred on Bell Island on 96-10-05. The man had recently returned to the province. He appeared in provincial court, St. John’s later on 99-11-08 and entered pleas of guilty to a charge of resisting arrest and escape lawful custody. He was sentenced to serve 30 days in jail intermittently and placed on probation for a period of 30 days.
The following Bell Island matters were dealt with in Provincial court, St. John’s, Nfld. on 99 11 10:
A 28 year old Bell Island man was convicted of resisting arrest. This charge resulted from a large disturbance outside a local licenced establishment on 99 07 18. The man was fined $160.00 and was placed on probation for a period of 12 months. One of the conditions of the probation is to remain away from this licenced establishment.
A 24 year old Bell Island man was convicted of a charge of causing a disturbance. This charge resulted from the same disturbance on 99 07 18. The man was fined $160.00 and placed on probation for 12 months, with a condition to remain away from this licenced establishment.
A 31 year old Bell Island man received a conditional discharge on a charge of causing a disturbance. This charge resulted from the same disturbance on 99 07 18. He was placed on probation for a period of 6 months and is to remain away from this licenced establishment for the duration of his probation.
A 38 year old Bell Island man received a conditional discharge on a charge of causing a disturbance. The charge resulted from the same disturbance on 99 07 18. He was placed on probation for 6 months with a condition to remain away from this licenced establishment.
An 18 year old Bell Island man was convicted of a charge of breach of probation. The charge resulted from an incident at a local restaurant on 99 09 13. He was fined $110.00. A 16 year old Bell Island youth was also charged as a result of this incident and will be appearing in youth court at a later date.
A 37 year old Bell Island woman entered a guilty plea to a charge of theft under. The charge resulted after the woman took a six pack of beer from a local grocery store. The woman received a suspended sentence and was placed on probation for a period of six months.
A 60 year old St. John’s man was convicted of impaired driving. He received a $700.00 fine and is prohibited from driving a motor vehicle for a period of 1 year. The man was apprehended on the Beach area of Bell Island on 99 05 23.
A 69 year old man entered a plea of guilty to a charge of impaired driving. The man was apprehended when his vehicle went in the ditch on Lance Cove Rd., Bell Island on 99 09 04. The man was convicted and because of a prior conviction for impaired driving, he was sentenced to 14 days in jail. He is also prohibited from driving a motor vehicle for a period of 2 years.
An 18 year old Bell Island man was convicted on a charge of uttering threats to cause physical harm to a Mount Pearl resident. The threat was made by telephone on 99 08 27 and use of a baseball bat was mentioned. The man intended this threat only as a prank, however, the recipients of the phone call did not know this man and certainly did not consider it a prank by any means. The man received a suspended sentence and was placed on probation for a period of six months.
A 14 year old Bell Island boy was convicted on two charges of break, enter and theft and two charges of theft under $5,000. The incidents occurred between 99 08 01 and 99 08 25 and was reported to the police on 99 09 01. The youth was placed on probation for 12 months and is required to do 30 hours of community service.
A 16 year old Bell Island boy was convicted on a charge of damage to property and received an absolute discharge.
Another 16 year old Bell Island boy received a $20 fine for drinking under age and was sentenced to 6 months probation for breach of probation offence.
There were a number of other individuals who appeared in court on this date, but had their cases postponed.
Marie Decker ran her last race of the millennium earlier this month. She ran in the Toronto International Marathon and placed third overall in the women and first in her age category with a time of three hours, thirty minutes and 47 seconds. She is pleased with her accomplishments this year and will continue her training. She is looking forward to competing in the Boston Marathon in the Year 2000 as well as a number of other provincial and Canadian marathons. Congratulations to Marie for a terrific year of running. Marie is a very focused and determined woman and we are sure this will bring her continued success in the coming year.
The abuse of alcohol destroys many lives. It is not only the person who is affected this disease. It is the children of an alcoholic parent, relatives, spouses, co-workers and others who suffer from living and working with an alcoholic. The fortunate thing is that there are people out there who can help persons who are affected by alcohol abuse. The unfortunate part is that the person has to recognize they are an alcoholic and then they have to seek help. No one can help someone who does not want to be helped. If you have a drinking problem and you want to stop losing to the booze, there is help available on Bell Island. Alcoholics Anonymous has a chapter here and there are interested people involved in this group who are more than willing to help. They meet every Wednsday and Saturday nights at 8:00 pm at the Solarium at the Walter Templeman Hospital. If you want to see what this group is about you can contact them through this telephone number - 709-488-3802.
They want you to know that if you want to drink, it’s your business but if you want to stop, it’s theirs.
By Sgt. Wayne Hebb
Cst. Hazel Ford is the school liaison officer for St. Augustine’s school. This year for Halloween she had a colouring contest for all the students and two of the students won costumes as a result. Congratulations to Jessica Sheppard of Grade three and Jessica Boone of Grade Two who were the winners of this contest.
Chief Jim Pendergast relates in his column that firefighters, police were patrol both in vehicles and on foot during this night to ensure the safety of the children. RCMP Auxiliary Cst. Norm King also came out to assist on this night of ghosts and goblins. Although it was a very windy and cold night, all the children enjoyed themselves and there were no incidents. Bon fire night was another quiet night for both fire and police officials. Only a few fires were lit which did not present any problems.
The co-operation between the Wabana Volunteer Fire Department and the RCMP is second to none. These volunteers are a group of dedicated persons who have the community’s best interest in mind with everything they do. The RCMP Auxiliary program also provides excellent support for the community. Many hours are given freely by these community minded individuals can only be classed as outstanding. Partnering with groups such as these can only benefit a police force.
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
Seeing as the newsletter started with a Y2K article it might be appropriate to give you some web sites where you can find more information on the millennium. Here are just a few:
Bell Canada - y2k.bell.ca/year2000 - All about what measures Bell Canada is taking towards the Y2K problem.
www.pep.bc.ca/neighbourhood - Useful checklist of things to do in preparation for the millennium and other emergencies.
www.cba.ca - Canadian Bankers Association - information on banking services in the Year 2000.
I’m sure you’ll find some other useful links on these sites when you visit them.
I regret to say that due to technical difficulties, I was unable to include a submission from Katimavik this month. Hopefully, we can work out the glitches so this will not occur again. I also have to apologize for not having a policing story in this issue. Due to unforseen circumstances I was unable to complete before the printing of this newsletter. There will definitely be one there next month.
Next month’s issue will complete the first volume of this newsletter with 13 issues. I never dreamed it would have continued this long. I thought it would be finished in a couple of months and would have served it’s purpose and I’d move on to something else. Unbelievable is all I can say. The support of the members at this office, the town council, community organizations and the community itself has been tremendous. The initial purpose of the newsletter was to inform the people of Bell Island what type of crime was occurring in their community and what the police were doing about it. It also served to inform the people of what community policing programs were in place and how they were effecting the community as a whole. Most importantly, the purpose was to make people aware that the policing service was their’s to use and that they could have imput into how this service should be best utilized. Now, the newsletter has evolved into something entirely different. While it still includes the police information, there are many submissions of a community interest. It just keeps picking up speed every month. I can’t explain it and although it takes a lot of time, I find I’m not complaining. I actually enjoy doing it so how can I complain. That’s like saying you hate lemon pie. Which reminds me to give the ladies at the Co-op bakery a call to keep a lemon pie for me this Saturday.
Keep those submissions coming! If you are interested in placing an article in the newsletter, submit your article in WordPerfect format (preferably) and on a disk. Submissions are required on the Monday before the 15th of each month. All submissions are welcome
Telephone 709-488-3312
Fax 709-488-2311
E-mail whebb@nf.sympatico.ca
Everyone is
Worthy of
Respect