Bell Island Community Policing Newsletter
Community Policing - Everyone’s Business
Y2K - Non Issue
From Sarge's Desk
A Chuckle A Day
Katimavik Report
Court Watch
Maintain the Right
Co-operators Hockey League
December Stats
Millennium Scholarship
St. Augustine's Primary School
Brighter Futures Report
Reader's Submission
Dream Deep
The Bell Island Heritage
Society
Not So Smart Criminals
2410 Bell Island Cadet Corps
Alcohol & Drug Free Dance
Food Bank Report
Growing with Your Teens
Town Council Report
St. Michael's High School
The Fire Department Report
Bell Island Minor Hockey
Cop Quote
Hearing Loss Seminar
Reward
Closing Remarks
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
The Twenty First Century has arrived.
So far many agencies are reporting little or no problems have been reported
and it appears that the Y2K is a non issue. RCMPolice across this province
had all its membership on call in the event of any occurrences but nothing
related to this issue has happened. Newfoundland Power reports everything is
business as usual. They do not expect any problems but they are monitoring
their
systems just the same. Local Newfoundland Power representative, Stan
MacDonald was on call during the New Year's weekend. He
reports a very quiet with no power disruptions. The town of Wabana also
experienced a quiet weekend. Town manager, Peter Kent relates that emergency
planning was in place in event of problems. The town developed the plan in
conjunction with the RCMPolice, the Walter Templeman Health Care Center, and
the Wabana Volunteer Fire Department. Fortunately the plan did not have to
be implemented.
The members of the RCMPolice experienced a quiet Christmas season as well
and no Y2K problems were encountered. Members of the Bell Island office of
the RCMPolice responded to 47 calls for service between December 23, 1999
and January 6, 2000. The calls were mostly of a routine nature.
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
The only way some communities can exist is because some residents volunteer
their time to provide valuable services to the community. I would have to
say that perhaps the volunteer firefighters would have to be one of the
volunteers that I admire the most. These individuals give freely of their
time to keep our community safe. They are constantly involved in training to
ensure they are ready to face any given situation. Fighting any type of fire
often involves the hazards which can cause injury or worse. Yet you'll
seldom hear them complain. Perhaps the following poem which I wrote a few
years ago says it best about the way I feel about these true volunteers:
Cold Suppers
Eyes shine in blackened faces
Pools of emotion in the orange light
Flames leaving only charred traces
What was once happy and bright
Seeing someone Crowded but all alone
Blankly staring in a daze
Uttering a lonely anguished moan
While a loving home is all ablaze
Cold suppers and aching bones
Rewarded by the lack of injury
Time can build a thousand homes
But loss of life brings only misery
Long ago a childhood dream
A desire to help a fellow man
Perhaps to be part of a team
Whatever it be, they deserve a hand.
by Erin Nordin, Buchanan, Sask
Katimavik participant
Because Bell Island is such a beautiful place, we, the Katimavik group,
decided to go for a walk around the edges. Our hike started at the
lighthouse and proceeded Westerly along the trail. To those of us who had
never been out East (and even those who have), every thing we saw was a new
‘Kodak Moment'. Bell Isand's natural beauty is overwhelming.
But….then we came across something that was not so beautiful. This was the
incinerator. Garbage is never nice and that is why the incinerator was put
there – at the edge of the island. The thing that caught our attention was
not the garbage in the incinerator/dump but the garbage all over the
surrounding area. It was all over the ground, flying in the air, out to the
sea and most disturbing, embedded in the various streams and standing water
which will someday be drained into the ocean. Everyone was surprised and
disturbed to see such a thing. We realize that the high wind factor on the
island plays a big part in spreading the garbage around, but there are ways
to avoid it like making a higher fence to make sure the garbage can not get
out of the area.
The problem doesn't stop at the incinerator, it follows the roads all over
the populated section of the island. It is hard to not focus on the garbage
polluting the ditches, fields, streams, roads… Whenever I go for a walk, I
pick up one of the many plastic bags lying around and fill it with garbage,
this makes me feel a little better. It is a sad sight to see such a
beautiful place lessened by garbage. Not only Bell Island, but the ocean
which receives the garbage filtered water running off it. That is a major
concern. I once heard it said that no one person can do everything, but
everyone can do something. You are a part of the everyone…
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
A number of Bell Island matters appeared before provincial court, St. John's on January 11&12. The following are the convictions registered:
2000-01-11
A 20 year old male resident of Clarke's Beach was convicted of mischief and breach of probation at provincial court St. John's on the afternoon of 2000-01-11. The charges relate to an incident which occurred on Bell Island on 99-07-25. The man was sentenced to serve 60 days in jail.
2000-01-12
A 50 year old Bell Island woman was convicted on a charge of impaired driving. She was fined $600 and prohibited from driving a motor vehicle for 12 months.
A 20 year old Bell Island woman was convicted on a charge of obstruction of justice. Sentencing has been postponed until 2000-02-19 for purposes of obtaining a pre-sentence report. Earlier in 1999 the woman reported she had been the victim of a number of assaults and an investigation was conducted. The woman's husband was arrested and charged with a number of charges as a result. The woman later recanted her statement and related that no offences had occurred.
A 31 year old Bell Island man was convicted on a charge of a breach of probation. He was given a suspended sentence and placed on probation for a period of two years. One of the conditions of his probation is that he remain away from the Bell Island Curling Club.
A number of other cases were set over to be dealt with on later dates.
2000-01-13
A 20 year old Bell Island man was convicted on this date on charges of assault causing bodily harm and causing a disturbance. The man received conditional discharges on both charges and was placed on probation for a period of six months. He was also ordered to pay a victim fine surcharge of $35 for each charge.
A 19 year old Bell Island man received an absolute discharge on a charge of causing a disturbance. He was also ordered to pay a victim fine surcharge of $35.
A 21 year old Bell Island man also received an absolute discharge on a charge of causing a disturbance and a $35 victim fine surcharge.
An 18 year old Bell Island man received a suspended sentence on charges of causing a disturbance and breach of probation. He was placed on probation for a period of twelve months. He was also given a $35 victim fine surcharge on each charge.
The above four individuals were part of a number of persons who were charged as a result of large disturbance on Grammar Street in July of 1999. All other individuals have been dealt with previously.
fiction by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
Part I
The coal black stallion snorted as Bryce Cranton placed his foot in the stirrup and hoisted himself in the saddle. He could see the horse's breath in the cool December air. Five hours, he thought. A good head start for anyone let alone an experienced fugitive like Jim Hassel. He didn't know much about this guy except that he had killed his brother. Well, perhaps that wasn't such a bad thing but still the little idiot was family. He gave the reins a slight tug and the horse slowly moved past the sign "Merriweather population 79".
He didn't rush his horse. There was no need to hurry. Hassel would have to
stop sometime and maybe he would think there was no need to run anymore. He
would feel it was safe to settle down until the next bit of trouble came his
way. Hassel was the type of person that trouble seemed to follow and he
accepted that it would go away but it would return. Bryce stopped at a small
brook and allowed the horse to take a drink from the icy water. His mind
wandered as his horse drank deeply.
He didn't really know why they called him Marshall. Merriweather wasn't
big enough to have a sherrif. There was only thirty families in the town
when he and his brother arrived there five years ago. The small town didn't
have any real problems to deal with except those his brother, Wayne made for
them. The only policing came from the District Sherrif's Office and they
only showed up once every year, if that. So, in addition to straightening
out the trouble Wayne caused, he took it on himself to take care of the few
other problems that arose in this small Midwestern town. There was no pay
involved, it was sort of a trade off for the people putting up with Wayne.
He had been always able to settle situations Wayne created, until now. Now,
the problems were over. Well, not quite. There still was Jack Hassel.
In a way, Hassel had actually done him a favor. He had only ended up in
Merriweather because of his now deceased brother. His brother had been like
a weight around his neck since as long as he could remember. They were born
in Fairton, Ontario on a piece of land his parents had saved for years to
purchase. Plenty of sweat and tears went into making a good home before he
came into this world. He had been the first born and had lived as an only
child until he was ten years. His parents had all but given up on another
child by that time. His mother had three pregnancies over the years which
resulted in miscarriages. The last of these had been when Bryce had been six
years old. Then his mother had gotten with child again and fortunately
(perhaps unfortunately if you consider how he turned out) Wayne was born.
Six years later, their mother became very sick and their father devoted most
of his time taking care of her. Taking care of Wayne was laid on his
shoulders. Even as a young boy Wayne had shown his disagreeable traits. He
had the ability to say or do something that could put a saint in a violent
rage. He was always in a fight or argument with someone. His mother had a
lengthy struggle with ill health but succumbed to its ravages just before
Wayne's ninth birthday. Not long after they had buried her Bryce decided it
was time to carve out his own future and had set out for Southern Ontario.
He had heard about the Northwest Mounted Police looking for young men so he
had sought out their headquarters. He thought it might be difficult to get
hired but the ink wasn't dry on the engagement document before an officer
with an abnormally sized mustache was ushering him towards the barracks. A
few days later he was headed for Western Canada with a regiment assigned to
quell the uprising of the Metis. He stayed with the "Mounties",the
name the Metis called them, for years policing this untamed western part of
the country. He was a weathered thirty years old when he returned. Hardened
from years on the trail and dealing with the low lifes he met there, he had
quit the Force to return to Fairton. He wanted to start a normal life away
from the horrors he had experienced riding with the Northwest Mounted
Police.
As he neared Fairton he heard sketchy reports that his younger brother
had made a name for himself. Nothing good, unfortunately. He was disturbed
by his brother's escapades but became even more upset when he learned of his
father's death.
According to reports, his father had died about a year ago. Why hadn't Wayne
sent him a letter or message to let him know? Wayne was going to answer that
one good when he first laid eyes on him. Bryce thought as he turned up the
lane leading to the old homestead. When he rounded the barn just past the
gate four of Jake Slade's men were at the front of the house. Jake Slade
owned a big cattle ranch on the outskirts of town. Actually, he pretty much
owned the outskirts of town, except for the Cranton property. Most everybody
around these parts either worked for or depended on Jake Slade in some way.
Pretty well what Slade wanted was the way things went in this town.
One of the men, had a rope with a hangman's noose and was holding it up
as he shouted something about stringing the little scoundrel up. No one was
going to string up a Cranton. Screamed through his skull. Not as long as he
drew a breath. He approached the group and with great restraint controlled
the anger that was mounting inside. They ranted on about how Wayne had
stolen a horse from Slade's barn after a poker game in the workers quarters.
He had looked at them and quietly advised them there wasn't going to be any
hanging on Cranton property or anywhere else for that matter. They didn't
see the coldness in his eyes when they told him no one was going to stop
them. He recalled their hands moving to their worn leather holsters but try
as he might, he couldn't remember pulling the silver Colt 45 from his
holster. Before he knew it, three of the men were lying dead on the ground.
The fourth, the one with the rope, had galloped off towards town.
Wayne sauntered out of the house just after the man had run off. He
smirked, "Thanks Bryce. You really showed them". He ignored his
brother's remarks as he barked orders for him to saddle up. Wayne had
hesitated for a minute but hastened to his horse as Bryce smacked him across
the back of his head with his open hand. A few minutes later, they rode out
the path, leaving behind the home, their parents had lived and died in.
That was seven years ago. They had roamed from place to place for the first
few months before entering the States. Jake Slade wasn't accustomed to
giving up so they kept on the move. They continued to wander the country
until finally finding Merriweather. It wasn't much of a place but he was
tired of running.
If Slade found them, so be it. He wasn't running anymore. Well, it had
lasted for five years, he could be thankful for that. Now, as he left the
half frozen brook to find his brother's killer, he knew he would never be
back
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
The Bell Island Junior Blues are meeting the first month of the
millennium head on.
They have won two out of the three games played during this month and are
now sitting in second place in the Avalon Division and fourth place in the
overall standings (as of 2000-01-12).
On January 7th the St. John's Caps managed to sneak a 6 to 5 victory from
the Blues at the Twin Rinks arena in St. John's. That squeaker put the Blues
on the warpath and when the Caps came to Bell Island on January 8th they
were massacred 8 to 2. The Blues momentum continued through to January 10th
when they quietly trounced the CBS Coachmen 8 to 5 on the Coachmen's home
ice. The Blues play the Conception Bay North Stars on January 15th at the
Monsignor Bartlett Arena at 7:15 pm.
Two of the Blues players are well out in front in the scoring list. Calvin
Power tops the list with a total of 71 points with Dion Durdle close on his
heels with 63 points. (Statistics as published on the Co-operators junior
hockey as of 99-12-22.
The Junior Hockey League held its firsts first All-Star game on January 13,
2000. The game was played in the Mount Pearl Glacier and at least three
players from each of the five teams in both the Metro and Avalon Divisions
were selected to take part in this event. Each team dressed twenty two
players.
Calvin Power of the Bell Island Junior Blues whipped in a goal early in the
third to break a 2-2 for the Avalon Divison. The Metro Divison were unable
to come back with anything and the final score was 3-2 for the Avalon
Division. Calvin Power put in two goals for the Avalon Division with Dion
Durdle of the Bell Island Blues and Jamie Walsh of the Trinity-Placentia
Flyers assisting on these goals. Thomas Duffett of the Trinity-Placentia
Flyers scored another goal for the Avalon Division All Stars.
In regular play this past weekend (January 15 & 16) the Blues were
defeated on both games by the Conception Bay Northstars. On Saturday,
January 15th CBN won 7-5 over the Blues at the Monsignor Bartlett Arena.
They maintained this score of 7-5 over the Blues on Sunday January 16th when
they returned to face the Blues on home ice again.
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
The RCMPolice Bell Island Community Policing office responded to 51 calls
for service during the month of December.
This brings the total to 651 calls for service during 1999. The following
are a few of the calls received:
A stereo and an emergency light were stolen from a residence by a tenant who left the province. This was reported on 99-12-04 and charges have been laid. A warrant of arrest will be sought from the court.
Sometime between December 9th & 10th, Poppa Dave's Take Out on Armoury Road was broken into. A quantity of money and some foodstuffs were stolen & the door damaged. Investigation continuing.
Between December 10th & 11th , a vacant residence in West Mines was broken into. Nothing taken. Reported for information purposes.
Between December 10th & 11th, a sum of money was stolen from an elderly gentleman in his residence. Money not recovered. Investigation continuing.
On December 18th, two residents of Scotia Ridge reported Christmas lights being stolen from their property. 5 youths under the age of 12 were responsible. Youths & parents spoken with. One of the parents replaced the lights.
Between Dec. 18th & 20th, youths were caught stealing lights from a Christmas tree on a lawn at Grammar St. Youths and parents were spoken to by police. The complainant did not wish charges in this matter and in light of the minor nature of the incident no charges were laid.
On December 24th, sometime after 3:00 A.M., a 1984 Olds was stolen from Davidson Avenue. The car was located in damaged condition near Lance Cove. Investigation continuing.
On December 28th, a 13 year old youth was brought to the Bell Island Hospital for underage drinking. The youths had taken the liquor from home & drank it while outside the dance. Investigation continuing.
On December 29th, a 40 year old Bell Island man was charged with Cultivation of Marihuana & Possession of a Narcotic, as a result of a search of his residence. He will be appearing in Court in February, 2000.
On December 31st, a complaint was received on 2 men being assaulted by a third man with an axe. Alcohol involved. A 27 year old man was charged with Assault with a Weapon and Uttering threats.
Congratulations to April Rees of Bell Island who was recently awarded a Canadian Millennium Scholarship in the amount of $2000.00. The scholarship, which originates in an initiative of the Government of Canada, is good for the 1999-2000 academic year. It is one of 75,000 awards, totaling more than $215,000,000, which the Canadian Millennium Scholarship Foundation is making to young Canadians as part of Canada's celebration of the new Millennium. We wish April every success in her future endeavors.
St. Augustine's Primary School
by William Clarke, principal
Christmas came in a special way to the students of St. Augustine's school, this year, in the form of a grant from the Newfoundland School Lunch Foundation to assist students and their parents with the provision of hot, nutritious school lunches for all our students. This gift was the result of discussions held before Christmas with this provincial funding organization, the school, and our volunteer parent hot-lunch support group headed by Mrs. Carol Bennett. The approval of this grant was also a recognition of the years of hard work and dedication of our parent volunteers to the provision of hot, nutritious lunches for our students each day.
The Newfoundland School Lunch Foundation is a provincial umbrella organization that is dedicated to the awareness of the need for nutritious lunches for all school children in order for them to function to their fullest potential in school. A significant part of this awareness is that of fundraising from both the corporate and public sectors of our economy, and in turn, distributing the funds raised to local school hot-lunch programs that are deemed to be worthy and in need. It is in this capacity that they have partnered with our school to assist us in the provision of nutritious lunches to our students.
Many parents on limited incomes on Bell Island find it difficult to provide their children with sufficient money for hot, nutritious lunches each day of the school week. In recognizing this situation, the grant provided to St. Augustine's Primary is used to provide free lunches for two school days, as well as providing fruit and other supplements to their own lunches for all five school days. Parents will then be in a better position financially to provide their children with money for a hot lunch the remaining three days of the school week. To date, this program has been well received by our parents and has met with considerable success. It is the hope of all the partners involved in this program that it be continued through to the end of this school year and into the foreseeable future. It is a great example of what can be accomplished for our students when everyone works together on their behalf. Everyone associated with St. Augustine's Primary would like to offer a sincere thank-you to the Board of Directors and Staff at the Newfoundland School Lunch Foundation for recognizing this need on Bell Island.
by Holly Neary
Happy Millennium to all residents of Bell Island and may everyone have
much success and happiness in the year to come. With this new beginning what
a great time to get involved in new things, do things with your family, kick
old habits, Etc. With that why not attend our programs with your child, a
friends child, a grandchild, or a child you care for. To help you with some
of your questions or concerns about the centre I have answered a few that
have been asked of me like:
Q: I don't need anyone to show me how to be a parent!
A: Nobody is saying how to be a parent to anybody. Parents get together,
share ideas, have leisure time, and develop friendships. These are programs
for you and your child to have time together playing and laughing in a
friendly environment.
Q: Are you part of Social Services?
A: NO we are not, we are funded by the Federal Department of Health Canada,
this would be your Public Health Nurses. Things said in the Centre office
are
confidential, it is your choice what you say to others. We offer programs
that are suggested to us by parents with health and nutrition kept in those
programs.
Q: If I go once will I have to go all the time?
A: You can come to the programs that interest you, you can come as often as
you want and get involved as much as you would like. Also you can have
another adult bring your children for you if for some reason you cannot
attend with them..
Q: I have no way to get to the Centre?
A: Transportation is provided on a as need basis. If you would like to come
for the first time and need a ride call the Centre and arrangements can be
made, after that transportation will be made possible to you for programs.
Q: Do I have to pay for programs?
A: All programs costs are taken care of by the Brighter Futures Coalition.
The only thing you provide is yourself and your children. This is a program
funded fully by the Federal Government.
Q: How can I get more information?
A: You can call the Centre and speak to myself or the Public Health Nurses.
We would be glad to help you and if you would like to see the Centre before
a program just call and arrangement can be made to show you around.
With all that in mind start the year out at Brighter Futures with your
child and enjoy the fun and excitement you can have. Here are some of our
activities for the upcoming month:
- Jan. 14 - Parents & Tots craft day.
- Jan. 20 - Parent Club - craft night.
- Jan. 21 - Parents & Tots cooking
- Jan. 30 - Family Movie Day (please call before attending)
- Every Wednesday is Parents & Tots from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.
We have many programs that are being offered or can be offered if desired.
If you have questions or comments call me at 488-2699 or your public health
nurse at 488-2702 and we would be glad to assist you.
All the programs are offered FREE OF CHARGE with transportation and child care being provided for programs if needed. Take advantage of a wonderful time to spend special time, out of the home, with your child compliments of the government.
Take that first step and drop by or call and always remember our children have a "brighter future"
This submission was received by our detachment assistant, Dale Fitzgerald
recently. Dale's son is in the armed forces and is presently serving in
Kosovo and was serving there during the Christmas season.
I'm sure there are other residents who have relatives who are serving in
posts overseas and have served with the armed forces over the years. So
without further adue here it is:
A SOLDIER'S CHRISTMAS POEM.....
T'was the night before Christmas,
He lived all alone,
In a one bedroom house made of
Plaster and stone.
I had come down the chimney
with presents to give,
And see just who
In this home did live.
I looked all about,
A strange sight I did see,
No tinsel, no presents
Not even a tree
No stocking, by mantle,
Just boots filled with sand,
On the wall hung pictures
Of far distant lands.
With medals and Badges,
Awards of all kinds,
A sober thought
Came through my mind.
For this house was different,
It was dark and dreary,
I found the home of a soldier,
Once I could see clearly.
The soldier lay sleeping
Silent, alone,
curled up on the floor
In this one bedroom home.
The face was so gentle,
The room in such disorder,
Not how I pictured
A United Nations soldier.
Was this the hero
Of whom I'd just read?
Curled up on a poncho,
The floor for a bed?
I realized the families
That I saw this night,
Owed their lives to these soldiers
Who were willing to fight.
Soon round the world,
The Children would play,
And grownups would celebrate
A bright Christmas Day.
They all enjoyed freedom
Each month of the year,
Because of the soldiers,
Like the one lying here.
I couldn't help wonder,
How many lay alone,
On a cold Christmas Eve,
In a land far from home.
The very thought
Brought a tear to my eye,
I dropped to my knees
And started to cry.
The soldier awakened
And I heard a rough voice,
"Santa don't cry,
This life is my choice.
I fight for freedom,
I don't ask for more,
My life is my god,
My country, my corps."
The soldier rolled over
and drifted to sleep,
I couldn't control it,
I continued to weep.
I kept watch for hours,
So silent and still
and we both shivered
From the cold night's chill....
I didn't want to leave
On that cold, dark night,
This guardian of honour
So willing to fight.
Then the soldier rolled over,
With a voice soft and pure, whispered
"Carry on Santa, It's Christmas Day,
All is secure".
One look at my watch
And I knew he was right,
"Merry Christmas my friend,
And to all a good night."
This poem was written by a Marine stationed in Okinawa, Japan.
Let's stop and think of our heros, living and dead, who sacrificed themselves for us.
"Reach high, for the stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for
every dream precedes the goal."
Author Unknown.
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
DBD...just let that roll off your tongue a few times. DBD...DBD. No, I'm not
starting to write rap songs. Not that I'm against rap music, I rather like
the beat but some of the lyrics just don't do it for me. DBD is just an
abbreviation, I'm using. There are groups of people who love using
abbreviations and acronyms and police officers are probably near the top of
the list. Abbreviations make things simpler for the people that use them and
I'm all for anything that makes life simpler. However, a lot of times these
abbreviations and acronyms confuse who are not associated to the group and
even some in the group itself. I'm one of those. Although I use these terms,
when others use them on me, I usually give them a confused stare which
causes them to explain what it is they are talking about. I can see you are
probably getting the same "What's he talking about?" type look so
I better explain myself. DBD is short for Dream, Believe, and Do it. Dream -
I have often heard it said that if you stop dreaming you will be dead.
Now that may not be entirely accurate as I don't know many doctors who have
attributed a person's death to lack of dreaming. However, if life holds no
excitement, no interest, no reason, then what is the point. I am talking
about an idea, some quality or action you see in yourself. Something you
would like to do, something you wish you could do. A lot of times we shut
down our dreams and rationalize that it is impossible or that's for someone
else to do. We limit our dreams maybe because of fear. Fear of failure and
perhaps even fear of success. That's what brings out the I can'ts because it
is the easy way out. Many of the things we take for granted
today...telephones, electricity, computers, etc., were no doubt thought of
as stupid or impossible at one time. Thank God, that the people who invented
these wondrous things didn't get the I can'ts. So let yourself go when you
dream. Don't hold back.
Believe - Dreaming is not enough.
A dream can never become a reality unless someone believes it can be done
and they are capable of making it happen. You must believe that you can do
it that you are the one to do it. You must be strong in your belief as well.
I believe...I have faith...I have no doubt...unfortunately cannot prevent
the I can'ts. Life is not easy and nobody gets a free ride. Yes, there are
going to be mistakes and failures that only help you to believe that you
can't do something but you can rise above this. It is easy to wallow in self
pity and say I can't. That's the coward's way out. You must rip the T from
can't if you want to believe in yourself. Try to indulge me by trying this
little experiment. Write the word CAN'T in big bold letters on a piece of
paper. When you're finished tear off the letter T and discard it. Now look
at what you have left. Remember what you see and start to believe. It is
that easy.
Do it - It is good to dream and even better to believe in yourself but
nothing ever happens without some action. Perhaps we should say...Do it or
else.
You'd be surprised how many people can get moving when there's a little
pressure applied. However, not everyone is a stress junkie so just remember
that you have to do something to get any results.
DBD...simple enough I guess but not always easy to follow. How many times
have you been knocked down by failure or mistakes? You spend time beating
yourself up because something didn't go right. Been there. Done that. Got
the T shirt. And probably I'll be there again. I guess I'll have to remember
is just DBD. How you fall down is not important. It's how you pick yourself
up that counts.
The Bell Island Heritage Society
by Gordon Skanes
A group volunteering its time, the Board of Directors of the Bell Island
Heritage Society, are developing a world-class tour facility at the No. 2
Mine Site. We are attracting visitors in large numbers from all around the
world. The spin-off from construction and tourist visitations is helping the
local economy. The total effort at the No. 2 site is growing and is a very
positive thing for Bell Island.
This being said, it's very disheartening to see reckless vandalism around our property. One has to wonder about the mentality of those who break off locks and destroy steel doors, destroy metal turbine vents, and the latest rock throwing effort has broken vinyl siding and trim on the exterior of the museum building. We have been asked why we cover the windows of a beautiful building! The destruction is not only gut-wrenching to the Board of Directors, but is costly to repair. We know Bell Islanders generally are very interested and supportive of what's happening at the No. 2 Site, yet, there are those who couldn't care less about Bell Island-even set out to undermine our efforts. It should be pointed out that it is evident that vandalism wasn't caused by children.
We feel we have a heritage to be proud of on this Island, and we are trying to pay tribute to our ancestors who fished, farmed, worked in the Bell Island mines, and to those who were involved with the war efforts. Why someone would want to cause problems at this facility is beyond comprehension.
We are requesting community help to stop these destructive activities. Should you be walking or driving in the No. 2 Site area and notice loitering or other activities of a suspicious nature, would you please report it to one of the following:
1. RCMPolice - 709-488-3312
2. Gordon Skanes - 709-488-2579
3.Clayton King - 709-488-2938
This property is part of your heritage. Please help us in our endeavours.
LOUISIANA:
A man walked into a Circle-K, put a $20. bill on the counter and asked for
change. When the clerk opened the cash drawer, the man pulled a gun and
asked for all the cash in the register, which the clerk promptly provided.
The man took the cash from the clerk and fled, leaving the $20. bill on the
counter. The total amount of cash he got from the drawer -$15. If someone
points a gun at you and gives you money, was a crime committed?
ARKANSAS:
Seems this guy wanted some beer pretty badly. He decided that he'd throw a
cinder block through a liquor store window, grab some booze and run. So he
lifted the cinder block and heaved it over his head at the window. The
cinder block bounced back and hit the would-be thief on the head, knocking
him unconscious. Seems the liquor store window was made of Plexiglas. The
whole event was caught on tape.
NEW YORK:
As a female shopper exited a convenience store, a man grabbed her purse and
ran. The clerk called 911 immediately and the woman was able to give them a
detailed description of the snatcher. Within minutes, the police had
apprehended the snatcher. They put him in the car and drove back to the
store. The thief was then taken out of the car and told to stand there for a
Positive ID. To which he replied, "Yes Officer, that's her. That's the
lady I stole the purse from."
SEATTLE:
When a man attempted to siphon gasoline from a motor home parked on a
Seattle street, he got much more than he bargained for. Police arrived at
the scene to find an ill man curled up next to a motor home near spilled
sewage. A police spokesman said that the man admitted to trying to steal
gasoline and plugged his hose into the motor home's sewage tank by mistake.
The owner of the vehicle declined to press charges, saying that it was the
best laugh he'd ever had.
ANN ARBOR:
The Ann Arbor News crime column reported a man walked into a Burger King in
Ypsilanti, Michigan at 5 am, flashed a gun and demanded cash. The clerk
turned him down because he said he couldn't open the cash register without a
food order. When the man ordered onion rings, the clerk said they weren't
available for breakfast. The man, frustrated, walked away.
KENTUCKY:
Two men tried to pull the front of a cash machine by running a chain from
the machine to the bumper of their pickup truck. Instead of pulling the
front panel off the machine, they pulled the bumper off their truck. Scared,
they left the scene and drove home, with the chain still attached to the
machine, with the bumper still attached to the chain, with their vehicle's
license plate still attached to the bumper. Built Ford tough!
NEW YORK:
A woman was reporting her car as stolen, and mentioned that there was a car
phone in it. The policeman taking the report called the phone, and told the
guy that answered that he had read the ad in the newspaper and wanted to buy
the car. They arranged to meet, and the thief was arrested.
by Capt. Wayne Fitzgerald
ph#709-488-3057
I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the cadets back from their Christmas break and to wish everyone a Happy New Year, as well as thank the parents for encouraging their children's interest in this excellent youth movement.
Our Christmas Ticket Draw and Tag Day were a great success. I would like to thank the store owners and individuals for their donations to the ticket draw, the businesses for allowing the cadets use of their facilities for the Tag Day, and the public for their generosity in buying tickets and supporting the Tag Day. The cadets enjoyed meeting so many friendly and generous people, from those who bought tickets and those who donated to the Tag Day to those who gave them chips, drinks and bars and treated them with kindness and generosity. The ticket draw was held at the Royal Canadian Legion and 1st prize was won by Gary Sparkes, 2nd prize went to Sandi Zver and 3rd prize to Janette Seward. Amanda Sparkes & Tracey Parsons received seller's prizes.
On Sunday, January 16th, we held an Awards & Promotions afternoon at St. Michael's School. Promotions are given to cadets for their efforts over their years in cadets, based on numerous factors and taking into consideration their performance at Cadet camps, their star level, and other considerations. This is not an easy task for the staff of 2410, as we would like to be able to give everyone a promotion, which is not always possible. We arrive at our decisions after hours of consideration and a majority vote by the staff. We value all the cadets of 2410 and appreciate the efforts put forth by each individual. This year we gave promotions as follows: four Pte, seven M/Cpl, four Sgt., one WO, two MWO, and one CWO. The appointments were made as follows:
CWO Amanda Churchill -RSM
MWO Krista Hann -CSM
MWO Naomi Wade -DSM
WO Kim Dadd -Band Major
Flag Party -WO Darrell Cobb
Platoon Warrant - A/WO Crystel Churchill
Platoon Sgt. -A/Sgt. Melissa Hann
Service Awards were presented to WO Christina Butler & Mr. Reid Noseworthy.
Special thank you to the Parents Committee for setting up the reception after the awards and to Lt. Bonnie Hammond for being MC for the afternoon.
It is that time of year again when we are considering positions at Cadet Camps. Remember cadets, the more work you put into the movement, the greater the rewards.
Once again, please encourage your children to become members of this
worthwhile youth movement.
Capt. Wayne Fitzgerald
709-488-3057
by Marilyn & Revlyn Sheppard
On December 27, 1999, a DRUG & ALCOHOL FREE DANCE was held at the former
G.J's lounge on Middleton Ave. This dance was held to make people aware that
they can have a life without BOOZE & DRUGS. It was well received with
approximately forty people in attendance. Among those were ten people from
the Katimavik family who became the highlight of the night. Knowing young
people like themselves who wanted to come, participate and be a part of us
made the dance well worth having. Also in attendance were several other
people ranging from ages 13-16. THANK YOU GUYS WE WERE VERY DELIGHTED TO
HAVE YOU ALL.
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to all the people who made contributions of goods, gift certificates, monetary and those who gave up their time to help in many other ways. Most importantly of all, we would like to Thank YOU the people who attended and made it such a success.
A special thanks to Sgt. Wayne Hebb (RCMP) for the use of his great talents, especially the letter he drew up for us seeking donations and the support he had given us through the whole process. Thank you Wayne your work is to be admired. Also, THANK YOU to Cst. Roy Kendall for his attendance. It gave us a chance to meet you and we felt very proud to have you as a part of us. ( I hope things went just as good for you as it did for us).
Last but not least a BIG THANK YOU to Sarah Hammond for the use of her building and her son Matthew for his music and canteen service. Most of the feedback we received is that we should do it again and soon. A GOOD TIME WAS HAD BY ALL. Maybe some day soon we can do this again and with more teenagers involved. (Something for all of us to think about)
Once again thank you for all the fun, laughter and fellowship. We proved THERE IS ALTERNATIVES TO THE USE OF ALCOHOL AND DRUGS. NOW IS THE TIME FOR YOU TO TRY IT.
Proceeds for the night were $384.25 which was passed over to THE BELL ISLAND FOOD BANK
by Mary Murphy
Well! Here we are again! New Year, New Century, New Millennium. With
Christmas behind us and a break between Christmas and New Year's, everyone
at the Food Bank is hard at it again.
Fundraising ideas and seeking donations are never far from our minds, we're looking forward to new ventures while continuing with our present efforts.
CARD GAMES sponsored by The Food Bank will be held at THE WABANA BOYS
& GIRLS CLUB on
JANUARY 23, FEBRUARY 6 AND FEBRUARY 20. The card games will be on SUNDAY
NIGHTS AND WILL START AT 8:30 P.M. SOME OF OUR TICKET DRAWS AT THE CARD
GAMES WILL BE ON VALENTINE GIFTS. All proceeds will go to the Food Bank.
We are in the process of putting together a"HOLIDAY PACKAGE"
consisting of:
RETURN TRIP FOR TWO FROM OR TO TORONTO DONATED BY CANADA 3000.
$500.00 SPENDING MONEY.
TWO TICKETS TO A TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS HOCKEY GAME. (Donated by Barry Babb)
TWO TICKETS TO A ST. JOHN'S MAPLE LEAFS HOCKEY GAME. (Donated by Toronto
Maple Leafs)
Phentex Camera valued at $250.00 (Donated by Phototec)
TICKETS WILL SELL FOR $1.00 EACH & WILL BE DRAWN ON July 23, 2000 on
BELL ISLAND DAY.
TICKETS WILL GO ON SALE IN FEBRUARY.
The local Chapter of AA held a DRUG & ALCOHOL AWARENESS dance on December 27. Thanks to the efforts of Revlyn & Marilyn Sheppard the evening was a success and all who attended enjoyed themselves immensely. All proceeds from the dance was donated to THE FOOD BANK. Cheers for the people who work so hard on behalf of our Community: Organizations such as AA, RCMP. WBGC, Brighter Futures, Head Start, Operation Sunshine, Churches, Social Clubs & individuals who donate time & money & oftentimes both.
I would like to say a special Thank You to Father Brown & his congregation who kept a steady and plentiful amount of food coming into the Food Bank during Advent & Christmas. To Sister Tee & Sister Dorothy for their generous donation of food hampers....To Cindy Foley, Tom Cole, Bruce Skanes, Gary Byrne, The Wabana complex, Pete Kent and all the employees for assisting us so much during registration of THE SALVATION ARMY CHRISTMAS HAMPERS & last but not least each & everyone of our volunteers, without them we couldn't begin to accomplish the things we do. YOU'RE ALL JUST GREAT!!!!!
On behalf of the Board & myself, we extend wishes for a very Happy, Healthy & Prosperous New Year to everyone on Bell Island.
WATCH FOR OUR EASTER CRAFT SALE, TURKEY & HAM RAFFLE!!!!!!!!
by Sgt. Wayne Hebb
Probably the most wonderful thing to happen to you in a lifetime is the
birth of a child. However, the overwhelming joy is soon diminished when we
come to the realization that raising a child is not a walk in the park. It
is hard work. Each step of the way we keep thinking "When they're older
it will be a much easier job to look after these bundles of joy." While
some things may get easier, there are other challenges which we must face.
Probably, the most challenging time occurs when our children become
teenagers. They go through tremendous changes which are difficult at times
for parents to understand. While we went through similar changes, our youth
face different problems than we faced many moons ago. It is therefore, very
important that we get as much help and information as possible so that we
can help our children through this most challenging transition from child to
adult. We must take advantage of reading material, seminars, and other
information sources, not because our child has a problem but because we want
to do the best possible job of parenting for our children.
On February 9th, 2000, there will be a parenting seminar called Growing with
your teens which will be held at the cafeteria room of the St. Michael's
High School from 7:00pm to 9:00 pm. Presentations on parenting issues as
well as alcohol and drug information will be conducted. The seminar is being
organized by Ms. Penny Moore of the Bell Island Community Health Services
and Sgt. Wayne Hebb of the RCMPolice Bell Island Community Policing Office.
There will be plenty of room for discussion on these topics during this
seminar. Some refreshments will be provided. All parents and interested
parties are welcome to attend. There is no charge or fee for this seminar.
by Diane Butler, town clerk
Council wishes to inform all residents that there will be no tax increases
this year. The 2000 Tax Schedule is as follows:
Town Tax Schedule for 2000
Property Tax
10 mills-residential (min. $225.00)
Business Tax
15 mills-local commercial (minimum $225.00)
30 mills-dental and medical
130-mills-banks
130-mills-oil companies
2.5% of gross revenue-utility co. 2.5% of gross revenue-no fixed place of
business
Poll Tax
$225.00 per year
Water Tax
9.50 per month-residential
$19.00 per month- commercial
$4.50 per student-schools
$7.00 per month per occupant-hospital
Sewer Tax
Same as Water Tax
Permits
$10.00 - General Repairs-residential
$20.00 - Extensions and sheds, garages, etc.
$20.00 - General Repairs-commercial
$40.00 -Extensions - commercial
$250.00 - Sewer Hookup-residential
$250.00 - Sewer Hookup-commercial
$75.00 - Water Hookup -new house construction
$125.00 - Water Hookup -new business const.
$30.00 - Water Reconnection Fee - 1st. Time
$60.00 - Water Reconnection Fee - 2nd. Time
$325.00 - Sewer Reconnection Fee
$20.00 - Extensions-residential
$40.00 - Extensions-commercial
$20.00 - Building-sheds, garages, etc. $20.00 - Changing nature of business
$75.00 Building-new homes
.5% of value-commercial projects
$200.00 - Incinerator permit per year $50.00 - Occupancy permits
Tax Certificates - 50.00
Dog Licenses
$10.00 per year
$20.00 - pick up fee-1st offense
$30.00 pick up fee-2nd offense
$40.00 pick up fee-3rd offcense
Impounding Fee
$100.00 - cattle, sheep, etc.-1st off.
$150.00 - cattle, sheep, etc.-2nd off.
$200.00 - cattle, sheep, etc.-3rd off.
Peddlers' Permit - 75.00 per year
A Happy New Year to you from our students, teachers and support staff – we hope you had an enjoyable Christmas. Since our last insert, much has happened – we've had our first Annual Awards and Diploma Night, our Annual Student Council Christmas Variety Show, the holidays of course, and now we're about to start our semester 1 exams. Read on for the "intricate" details . . .
ANNUAL AWARDS & DIPLOMA NIGHT
Held on Monday night, December 20, the first Annual Awards and Diploma Night
was a huge success. We were delighted with both the turnout of graduates and
their parents. Approximately $7500.00 was distributed in scholarships –
we'll have a complete listing of the winners in the next issue of this
newsletter. Our plan is to continue this "Night" on an annual
basis.
We wish to thank the following individuals, groups, and organizations for
contributing to the various scholarships awarded that night:
Anglican Parish Joan's Craft & Flowers
B & E Mart Kelloway Investment Ltd.
Babb Lock & Safe Ltd. Kento
Bayview Variety Knights of Columbus
Bell Island Curling Club Masonic Lodge
Bell Island Enrichment Committee Modern Paving Ltd.
Bell Island RCMP Murphy's Garage
Bell Island Ventures Reid Noseworthy
Clarke & Clarke Mr. Frank Pendergast & Family
Confederation Cup Personal Touch
Co-operators Insurance Ridgeway Variety Ltd.
Walter Dicks Ltd. Shirley's Beauty Parlour
Joseph & Philomena Dobbin Estate Skanes Enterprises
Easy Save Ltd. Skanes Foodland
Family Drug Mart Ltd. St. Michael's High Teachers
Mr. Gary Gosine & Family Tina's Hairstyling
H.T.L. Driver Training Town of Wabana
Henry's One Hour Photo Tremblett's Ambulance Service
Mr. Home Movie St. Michael's Roman Catholic Parish
House of Stoyles Royal Canadian Legion
Mr. Gary Hunt Distributors Mr. James Walsh MHA
Mr. William Hunt Sr. Wedgewood Insurance
Mr. Martin Hurley Distributors United Church
If you're not already on our list and you're interested in contributing to
next year's Awards Night, please contact us at 488-2828.
ST. MICHAEL'S HIGH SCHOOL DRAMA CLUB DEBUTS AT IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
Our Drama Club under the direction of teachers Mrs. Jocelyn Ralph and Ms.
Bonnie Campbell debuted at Immaculate Conception School on Thursday,
December 16. They performed the play "The Final Dress Rehearsal"
for the Grade 4-5-6 students. Members of the Club are: Ashley Bennett; Paula
Doherty; Wanda Sheppard; Tammy Conway; Kelly Newell; Cathy Tulk; Michelle
Sheppard; Christine Tulk; Jennifer O'Keefe; Melissa Sheppard; Amanda Crane;
Lori Durdle; and Mary O'Rourke. The Club also performed this play at our
Christmas Variety Show. Our congratulations to all members for their
excellent performances.
ANNUAL STUDENT COUNCIL CHRISTMAS VARIETY SHOW
Hosted by our Student Council, this year's Christmas Variety Show was indeed
entertainment at its best! Included in the show were the Drama Club's
performance of "The Final Dress Rehearsal"; solos by students
Amanda Churchill and Jolene Bickford; skits by Mrs. Kent's Folk Literature
3203 class; skits by the Student Council executive; and a lip-sync
performance of Lou Bega's Mambo No. 5 by our principal, Mr. Delaney!
Mr. Delaney says a special word of thanks to his "back-up trumpet and
trombone players – Mr. Barry, Ms. Deibel and Mr. Winsor". Rumor had
it that Mr. Delaney was going to lip-sync Shania Twain but he had to settle
for Lou Bega – maybe Shania next year!!!!!!! Anyway – "a good time
was had by all!!!!!!!"
TECHNOLOGY ED PROGRAM SAYS THANKS TO BELL ISLAND RCMP
Technology Education teacher, Mr. Boyd Winsor extends a special word of
thank you to the Bell Island RCMP Detachment for their continued support and
assistance in helping to enrich this program. A number of prizes have been
donated for various in-class competitions and recently the RCMP digital
camera was borrowed to take pictures of a recent design competition. These
pictures will be added to our St. Michael's High School home page (www.aesb.nf.ca).
Visit our page and have a look – we think you'll be impressed. In
particular, our appreciation to Cst. Boyd Decker, our PALS representative,
who periodically assists us with various aspects of the program.
BELL ISLAND RCMP DONATES MOVIE PASSES TO POSITIVE VISITS PROGRAM
Each month the Bell Island Detachment donates Studio 12 movie passes to
students called down to Mr. Delaney's office for "positive
visits". To date - Tara Ash, Melissa Pitts, Mary O'Rourke, and Lori
Young have received passes. "Positive visits" provide the
principal with an opportunity to praise students for various accomplishments
and are "topped off" by a telephone call to the parents. Needless
to say, these "visits" go over well.
GRADUATION EXERCISES 2000
Our Graduation Exercises for the Class of 2000 have now been scheduled for
Saturday, April 29. We usually have the exercises the first weekend in May
but because our school is hosting a provincial wrestling tournament that
weekend, the date for graduation had to be changed. We decided to go earlier
(April 29) rather than later (May 13) because in mid-May we're getting very
close to final exams and because of the importance of final exams and the
fact that graduation exercises tend to take students' attention away from
academics, we thought it prudent to go with the April 29th date. Our
rational for the Saturday date as opposed to the Friday was that this would
be more convenient for working parents (especially commuters) and it would
give us an extra day for preparations keeping in mind that this year's
Easter holidays run from April 17-24 inclusive. Classes resume on Tuesday,
April 25.
SEMESTER 1 EXAMS
Wednesday, January 19 – Friday, January 28. Regular classes resume on
Monday, January 31 – Day 7 on the 14 day cycle.
by Fire Chief Jim Pendergast
Over the past number of years, people have died in Newfoundland in
residential fires caused by careless cooking and deep fat frying. Fires
caused by COOKING FAT ARE EASILY PREVENTED by taking precautions. The key to
safety is the purchase and use of an approved thermostatically controlled
deep fat fryer.
- Never use an ordinary pot for deep fat frying;
- Do not leave a fryer unattended or near combustibles like curtains or cup
towels;
- Keep a dry chemical extinguisher;
- DO NOT THROW WATER ON A GREASE FIRE;
- DO NOT TURN ON AN OVERHEAD FAN. THIS COULD SPREAD THE FIRE THROUGHOUT THE
ENTIRE BUILDING.
Place a multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguisher (Type ABC) in the
kitchen. It should be hung on a wall in a clearly visible and readily
accessible location.
by Gerald Fowler, Bantam Coach, Bell Island Minor Hockey League
HOCKEY TOURNAMENT AT BROTHER O'HARA ARENA
December 28, 29 and 30th, Bell Island Bantam Hockey team, consisting of 15
players and two Goalies were invited to play a 4 team tournament. Teams that
were involved were Whitbourne, North East, Southern Shore and Bell Island.
All games were played at the Brother O'Hara Arena.
December 28th -Bell Island tied North East 5 -5 (two goals were scored by Justin Boone, 2 goals scored by Mark Fowler and 1 goal scored by Jonathan Kavanagh).
December 29th -Bell Island played two games visiting Whitbourne Tee Pee's losing 4 -3(goals scored by Brad Decker, Justin Boone and Justin Lahey).
December 29th -Bell Island played Southern Shore 3 -3 tie (goals scored by Justin Boone -2 goals and 1 from Nick Benoit). This game left Bell Island in third place.
December 30th -Bell Island had to beat Southern Shore Breakers to advance to the championship game. Bell Island beat the breakers 6 -2 with goals coming from Mike Maloney, Justin Boone and two each from Nick Benoit and Mark Fowler. Finally in the championship game, Bell Island had to play Whitbourne Tee Pee's, who hadn't lost a game in the tournament. Bell Island scored two goals, one in the first period and scored again late in the second period. Whitbourne scored one in the third. Bell Island won the Championship game 2 -1. Goals were scored by Nick Benoit, assisted by Ryan Shea and Justin Lahey, assisted by Justin Boone. All the players of the Bantam team worked together as a team and made this championship game a success, as well as a fun filled weekend.
Bell Island Bantam team was presented with a Millennium Plaque which is displayed at the Bell Island Arena.
Members of the team are:
Joey Hurley
Colin Hussey
Nick Benoit
Justin Lahey
Justin Boone
Mark Fowler
Ryan Shea
Jason Mercer
Tony Cobb
Arther Whalen
Mike Maloney
Jonathan Kavanagh
Chris Clarke
Chad King
Chad Jones
Brad Decker
Shane Skehans
Coach -Gerald Fowler
Trainer -Corey Boone
Assistant -Grant Whalen
Finally in closing, I would like to say thank you to the parents and coaching staff for their continued support. A great time was had by all.
Respect sits on the doorstep of the honest person.
by Dorothy Bonnell
Do you or someone you know have a hearing problem? The Bell Island Peer Advocates for Seniors and Leon Mills of the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association will be holding a seminar on Tuesday, January 25th, 2000 at 2:30 pm at the Royal Canadian Legion, Bell Island to discuss hearing loss and coping with this loss. It is an informal affair and everyone is welcome to attend. If you wish to attend and you require transportation please call Dorothy Bonnell at telephone number 709-488-2694.
During the early morning hours of Wednesday the 12th of January, 2000 persons entered Bryne's Easy Save on Bennett Street, Bell Island. The thieves entered through a window on the front of the building by removing the glass. Once inside the culprits stole approximately $1000.00 worth of tobacco products. This consisted of a number of 200 gram plastic tubs of Belvedere, Export and Player's Light tobacco; a number of tobacco kits which include a 110 gram plastic tub of tobacco and cigarette tubes - brands Export and Players; and a quantity of 50 gram pouches of Players, Players Light, Belvedere, Rockport and Export tobacco. Two persons were observed running down Bown Street away from this business. The only description is that one of these individuals was wearing a dark coloured coat with a white emblem on the back (possibly a Nike symbol) and the other fellow was wearing a ski mask on his face and a dark coloured coat. Gary Byrne, the owner of Byrne's Easy Save is offering a $500.00 reward for anyone who provides information which leads to the arrest and prosecution of the person or persons responsible.
If you have any comments, suggestions, or you wish to discuss a personal or community problem, by all means visit our office situated on Memorial Street or contact us at the following:
Telephone: 709-488-3312
Fax: 709-488-2311
Email whebb@nf.sympatico.ca
Everyone is
Worthy of
Respect