Thomas Steen: His Election Platform

The election is now yesterday's news and regardless of for whom you cast your ballot, it will be important that we come together to work with our new city councillor to achieve positive changes in Glenelm and Elmwood. 

Something we may want to consider is inviting Mr. Steen to a community meeting to learn more about our neighhbourhood's concerns and priorities and discuss how he will represent our interests at City Hall.  It's worth noting that he was one of the Elmwood-EK candidates to drop by our October 17th 'Party in the Park' event -- a hopeful indication of future interest and commitment. 

Also worthy of note is the work he is doing with his son Alexander, through the Amadeus Steen Foundation: funding a play area in the Winnipeg Children's Hospital and re-building a centre for at-risk youth in southern Ontario.  Perhaps our new councillor will also be willing to support initiatives for at-risk youth in Elmwood, including more extensive and accessible programming in close proximity to where vulnerable children and youth live. 

To get a better sense of Mr. Steen's vision and priorities for our community, please see below the election platform posted on his campaign web site and the election questionnaire he completed:

A.      From http://thomassteen.ca/key-issues/

Ensuring the Safety of our Streets and Homes
I will work hard to see proven crime prevention programs implemented which have the residents and community agencies working very closely with the Winnipeg Police Services to ensure that our streets and neighborhoods are safe for all.

Working Effectively with all Levels of Government

We need to work cooperatively with all levels of government to create a common vision for our city.

Creating and Implementing an Effective Infrastructure Renewal Program

The breakdown of our infrastructure must be addressed with a comprehensive plan for renewal. This plan must include consultation with the residents and businesses of our community, especially as it relates to roadways, sidewalks and drainage.

Beautifying our Community

I will invest in the enhancement of our parks and public areas with greenscaping, lighting and community integrated anti-graffiti programs.

Developing and Maintaining Recreational Spaces and Programs

I would like to see more partnerships with community centres so that they can serve as hubs for the surrounding community. This would include support services for our youth, families, seniors and new residents of Winnipeg.

Encouraging a Positive Business Environment

We need to encourage more investment in Winnipeg. This will broaden our tax base and allow us to provide quality services within the existing structure.

Demanding Value for our Tax Dollars

I am opposed to tax increases as I believe there are still many opportunities to find efficiencies through continuous improvements at City Hall.

B.      From http://winnipegelection.ca/pages/6/candidate/Thomas_Steen

1. Why did you decide to run in the 2010 Winnipeg election?

There are a number of reasons that compelled me to run as City Councilor. It is difficult to say which one was the most important since they all influenced me in making my decision to run. As an immigrant I have felt so grateful to the people of Winnipeg who welcomed me into their hearts and homes. As a result I have always felt a strong need to repay the hospitality the people of this city have shown me. I also believe that the city is at a turning point. I have sensed in the last few years that the city has made a noticeable positive change. I want to be part of a city council that continues to move the city forward. Finally as a candidate in the last federal election I made a real connection with the people in the Elmwood – East Kildonan area. When I was asked to consider running as a councilor by some of the residents of Elmwood – East Kildonan I felt honoured, seriously considered the request and was ultimately convinced to accept the challenge.

2. What experience will you bring to complement your role as councillor?

Community Involvement

I founded a charity, the Amadeus Steen foundation in memory of our son which funds worthwhile projects for children and youths. Understanding Public Service is essential for a city councilor.

Commitment to Excellence

As a professional athlete I understood the type of commitment and drive that it takes to excel at the highest level. As a City Councilor I will demand the same standard of excellence for myself, the city administration and in the services we provide to the citizens of Winnipeg.

Leadership

As Captain of the Winnipeg Jets players I was called upon by, fans, and team management, to motivate the players on the team to perform to their best of their abilities. In the same way I will provide leadership at city hall with my fellow councilors and ensure that we are focused on our goal, which is to provide excellent services to the citizens.

Vision

As a professional hockey scout I had to analyze the potential of up and coming hockey talent to determine their potential as professional. As City Councilors we are called upon to evaluate new ideas and program and quickly discern what fits with the long term plans and needs of Winnipeg.

3. What are the major issues you would like to stand for and why did you choose these issues?

From my discussions with community leaders and the residents of Elmwood-East Kildonan I have developed a platform that is resonating throughout the ward. If elected I am committed to the following:

·         Ensuring the safety of our streets and homes through proven crime prevention programs that work closely with the community and the Winnipeg Police Services.

·         Working with all levels of government in order to access infrastructure funds to maintain streets and services in Elmwood – E.K.

·         Developing and maintaining recreational spaces and programs.

·         Demanding value for our tax dollars.

4. Is there anything in particular you would like to change in our city? In your ward?

City of Winnipeg

As I already mentioned I believe that the City of Winnipeg is at a turning point. We are moving in the right direction in terms of creating a positive environment. We need to continue this and finds ways to encourage more investment. We also need to have proven crime prevention programs implemented which work very closely with the community and Winnipeg Police Services to ensure that our streets and neighborhoods are safe for all. At the same time we need to create a positive environment for city employees so that they are motivated to provide excellent services. If we can maintain this momentum over time we can create a prosperous and safe city with affordable quality services.

Elmwood – East Kildonan

This is an area of the city that has been underrepresented by its elected officials in the past. There is a real opportunity this election to make a change from this pattern and in turn send a strong message that this area wants to contribute and be part of the revitalization of the city.

5. Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

I would like to say how enjoyable and important it is for me to be part of the democratic process. I would love to represent Elmwood East Kildonan on City Council and look forward to being able to serve the citizens of Winnipeg with enthusiasm and dedication in the coming term.

Thomas Steen Campaign web site

Thomas Steen on Wikipedia

Amadeus Steen Foundation

Toronto Star: Amadeus Steen Foundation builds centre for at-risk youth

Winnipeg Free Press - Council divided between left and right

Thomas Steen wins Elmwood-East Kildonan

Program Update for October 17th Party in the Park

Our 'Party in the Park' event is happening this coming Sunday, Oct. 17th from 2-4 p.m. in the playground area of Elmwood/Roxy Park.  Looks like the weather will hold up and the line-up for the afternoon is looking good:

-  Comic and writer Bruce Clark has agreed to MC the event -- he grew up in Elmwood and still lives in Glenelm during the months when he isn't in Palm Springs, performing in Las Vegas or kicking back at his cottage in the Whiteshell.  I haven't yet seen him perform in person, but he's got a great reputation and is a wickedly good writer (see links below);
- Musician Tannis T will be performing throughout the afternoon -- she has a broad repertoire of oldies and new material -- something for everyone;
- Toodles the Magic Clown will be entertaining kids with face painting, balloon animals and.....magic!;
- Lillian Thomas will also be joining us to say a few words about the park, along with Jonina Ewart (Park Services Superintendent);
- Jeff Browaty, Bill Blaikie and Jim Maloway might also drop by (and I suspect campaigning candidates could make an appearance); and
- Sobey's has provided free refreshments, including hot dogs we'll be grilling on-site :-)

For those of you who haven't been in the park recently, there is a new Elmwood Park sign near the Henderson Hwy entrance and a new 'Adopt-a-Park sign will be joining it shortly--identifying both WASO and GENA as the adopters (see 'Local Links').

Our/your first opportunity to participate in park beautification in support of the Adopt-a-Park program will also take place on Sunday afternoon.  Everyone who is willing and/or able will be invited to pick up a shovel or rake and spend a short time spread woodchips in recently cleared areas close to the playground.  Please  bring your own equipment (labeled with your name) if possible. Wheelbarrows and buckets to move the woodchips would also come in handy.

Everyone with the City of Winnipeg has been very supportive and helpful, including assistance with special events planning, permits, provision of additional picnic tables for the weekend, folding tables and chairs, access to the poolhouse, woodchips and many other items.  

FYI, at the last Elmwood-EK Community Committee Meeting, we received a $600 Per Capita Grant to cover the cost of the entertainers and supplies for the Oct. 17th event, and the $139K Land Dedication Grant was also confirmed by Councillors Thomas and Browaty.  We will be working with Park Services to ensure work begins this spring on increased lighting, pathway completion and other improvements.

Hope to see you Sunday afternoon!

Links:

Bruce Clark - Interview with Shaw TV Backstage (October 2010)

Bruce Clark - Interview with Tim Gray - 2009 Winnipeg Comedy Festival

Bruce Clark - Wpg Free Press Letter to the Editor re: CMHC (Sept 2010)

Bruce Clark - Wpg Free Press 'Why Kick the Hornets Nest' (August 2010)

Bruce Clark - Huffington Post 'Do you have to be depressed to be funny?' (June 2010)

Bruce Clark - Huffington Post 'The State of Comedy in Canada' (March 2010)

Bruce Clark - The Huffington Post 'The Cdn Museum of Human Rights: An Unfolding Story of Swiftian Irony' (Feb. 2010)

Bruce Clark - Afghanada Episode 48, Season 3 'King of Comedy' (2008)

Hot News: Bruce Clark MC at 'Party in the Park'!!!

This just in.....Bruce Clark has agreed to MC our October 17th Party in the Park!  You may not know that Bruce lives in Glenelm six months a year and is one of the few Canadians to have performed on the Tonight Show. He has appeared at Just For Laughs and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival and is a regular performer in Las Vegas.  Bruce has also sold television pilots to VH1, Comedy Central and writes for the Winnipeg Free Press and the Huffington Post.   He was the co-producer of the Winnipeg Comedy Festival Storytellers show earlier this year.  We are thrilled and fortunate that Bruce is willing to volunteer his time before returning to his winter home in Palm Springs later this month!!

Check back for updates on the program for October 17th -- more to come shortly!

Advance Polling Opportunities

City Hall

Tuesday, October 12, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Wednesday, October 13, 1:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Thursday, October 14, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Friday, October 15, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 16, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Monday, October 18, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Tuesday, October 19, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Wednesday, October 20, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Thursday, October 21, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Friday, October 22, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

****************************************************

University of Winnipeg

Tuesday, October 12, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Wednesday, October 13, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

515 Portage Ave. - Main Floor - in front of Cafeteria

University of Manitoba

Tuesday, October 12, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Wednesday, October 13, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

65 Chancellor's Circle

UMSU – near Bookstore

Red River College (Notre Dame Campus)

Thursday, October 14, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Friday, October 15, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

2055 Notre Dame Ave. - near Library

Portage Place Shopping Centre

Friday, October 15, 12:00 - 6:00 p.m.

309 - 393 Portage Ave. - Centre Court

Polo Park Shopping Centre

Saturday, October 16, 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, October 17, 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Community Booth, near The Bay next to escalators

Kildonan Place Shopping Centre

Sunday, October 17, 12:00 - 6:00 p.m.

1555 Regent Ave. W., Centre Court

*********************************

Miles Macdonnell Collegiate (Elmwood-EK voters only)

Tuesday, October 19, 4:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Wednesday, October 20, 4:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Thursday, October 21, 4:00 – 9:00 p.m.

757 Roch Avenue

Can you assist? Volunteers Needed for October 17th Party in the Park

A small group of neighbours have been working on plans for a community 'Party in the Park' celebration on October 17th, but we need your help with:
- postering and distributing leaflets to publicize the event
- canvassing local merchants for donations of gift certificates or prizes
- transporting 2 barbeques to and from the park
- site set-up and/or take down on Sunday morning and evening
- finding a large tent or tarp in case it rains (these are extremely expensive to rent, so if anyone knows someone who may be willing to donate it for the day, it would be ideal)
- a small stage with risers
- food preparation and service during the event (ideally people with food service experience)
- identifying volunteers to participate in our first 'Adopt-our-Park' activity, carrying and spreading wood-chips to shrubbery beds throughout the park; we need people to bring buckets, rakes and wheel-barrows on the 17th.

If you are willing to assist with any of the above, please send an email to caroline.krebs@gmail.com or call and leave a message at 654-4248.

P.S.  A big thanks to three area businesses who are supporting this event: Sobey's Northdale, The UPS Store and Video World (all on Henderson Highway)!

Onstage at Gordie's in October

If you haven't checked out Gordie's Coffee House, October would be a good time to drop by.

Doors at 127 Cobourg open at 7:00 p.m. & the show starts at 8:00 p.m. In addition to great music, Fair Trade coffee or tea for a loonie and yummy desserts for a toonie, you can enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere, displays by local artists and board games.

Upcoming acts include:
OCTOBER 7 - DB BLUES BAND
OCTOBER 14 - JELLY B & THE K-MART SHOPPERS
OCTOBER 21 - ALVIN KASKIE
OCTOBER 28 - SPEND IT ALL

For more information, see http://www.gordonkingchurch.com/gordies/

Glenelm - Neighbourhood of Choice? (CBC Information Radio - September 30th)

In case you missed last week's very positive CBC Radio morning segment on Glenelm (part of their series on safety and crime in a variety of Winnipeg neighbourhoods), a few highlights are noted below, including compartive crime stats and comments from a number of residents:

Crime rates
While we are not a crime-free neighbourhood, according to the City's CrimeStat database/mapping system, rates of reported crime are 3 x higher in Chalmers and 2 x higher in Point Douglas than in Glenelm.

Why do we have lower rates of crime?  A number of reasons were suggested:

1. Geography - the Red River is a geographic barrier between Glenelm and the North End and Henderson Highway separates us from Chalmers. One resident recounted the story of crime rates dropping even further during the closure of Redwood Bridge.

2. Neighbourhood stability - a significant marjority of Glenelm residents are homeowners (not renters) with very low rates of transience.  The trend of adult children moving back to the neighbourhood to purchase homes was cited. 

3. Sense of community - The importance of social gatherings was noted, including the annual Noble Block Party and weekly gatherings at Gordie's Coffee House (Thursday evenings at Gordon King Memorial Church). One resident described a Block Parent  house-to-house phone alert system, to ensure everyone is aware of what's happening. Residents spoke warmly about the fabric of the neighbourhood, including anecdotes about neighbours mowing lawns for each other and and welcoming new neighbours with baking.

4. Socio-economic status - Glenelm is not a poor neighbourhood. The average household income is $54K, and 75% of residents have some type of post-secondary education. The reporter noted the correlation between poverty, education and crime.

WHAT THE CBC REPORTAGE DIDN'T MENTION....
According to 2006 Census data, Glenelm is a largely working class neighbourhood (with average income inflated by a minority of higher-income earners).  When compared to City of Winnipeg averages, Glenelm is characterized by:

· a larger Aboriginal Identity population (16.6% vs 10.2%);

· a larger Aboriginal Ancestry population (25.1% vs. 11.2%);

· higher rates of unemployment among youth and working-age adults;

· lower average employment income ($28,359 vs. $33,518);

· lower average household income ($54,568 vs. $63,023)

· higher incidence of low income before and after taxes (particularly among seniors);

· higher incidence of single female parent households (23% vs. 16.2%); and

· more dwellings in need of minor repair (43.6% vs. 29.1%) and major repair (14.5% vs. 8.5%).

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

1. 2006 Census - City of Winnipeg Neighbourhood Profiles
Glenelm 2006 Census Profile
River East South 2006 Census Profile

2. CrimeStat database - it tracks a number of types of crime by electoral area and neighbourhood.

Crime Type Legend
	Break & Enters - Commercial
	Break & Enters - Other
	Break & Enters - Residential
	Homicide
	Robbery - Commercial/Financial
	Robbery - Non-Commercial/Financial
	Sexual Assault
	Shooting
	Theft Motor Vehicle - Actual
	Theft Motor Vehicle - Attempt Only

3. ServiceStat - another City mapping system that tracks graffii and other community service issues:

Service Type Legend
	Closed service type - icon in box
	Autobin Overflowing
	Boulevard Mowing
	Cankerworm Complaint
	Dog Complaint
	Frozen Catch Basin
	Graffiti
	Litter Container Complaint
	Missed Garbage Collection
	Missed Recycling Collection
	Mosquito Complaint
	Neighbourhood Liveability Complaint
	Potholes
	Sanding
	Sewer Backup
	Sidewalk Repairs
	Snow Removal - Roads
	Snow Removal - Sidewalks
	Vacant or Derelict Building Complaint
	Water Main Leak

Noble Avenue location part of September Drug Bust

Nine suspects charged in drug bust

By: Staff Writer

Posted: 24/09/2010 1:00 AM 

A lengthy police investigation into a suspected cocaine ring has resulted in the arrests of nine people and the seizure of hash, marijuana and more than $500,000 in cash.

Winnipeg police said Thursday a series of drug warrants were recently executed at eight locations across the city and in St. Andrews.

Police said the suspects have been charged with several drug-related offences.

Police executed warrants on the 1100 block of Atlantic Avenue, the first 100 block of Leveque Street, the 300 block of Templeton Avenue, the 2400 block of Main Street, the 1000 block of Strathcona Street, the first 100 block of Noble Avenue, the first 100 block of Donwood Drive, and the 500 block of Sargent Avenue.

Police also searched a residence in St. Andrews.

Police said they seized nine kilograms of hash, six kilograms of marijuana, thousands in cash and about $40,000 worth of jewellery. Police also seized more than six vehicles.

Police also searched residences in Montreal, Que., and Langley, B.C.

The nine accused range in age from 20 to 65. All face a number of drug-related charges.

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition September 24, 2010 A6

What is GENA and what's going on in Roxy Park???

A number of months ago, a small group of Glenelm neighbours came together to discuss what we could do about the sad state of Roxy Park (as well as some other local concerns). Those of us who visit it every day have observed a significant decline and neglect over the years, but we also recognize the park as a significant environmental and community asset. A few determined residents had in the past made their concerns known to elected and civic officials, but for a variety  of reasons, nothing seemed to change.

So we decided to start fresh, get organized and try to influence key decision-makers, sharing our vision for a revitalized Roxy Park.  We are happy to report that to date, we have been successful in working with the City of Winnipeg Park Services and Councillor Lillian Thomas to both identify and at least partially fund those improvements. For additional background and details, please see the separate post  'Elmwood Park Revitalization Project' and the link to our Google Groups page:  http://groups.google.ca/group/glenelmneighbours/web/roxy-park      

To demonstrate our commitment as residents, we agreed to join the City's 'Adopt-a-Park' program (which will include seasonal clean-ups and special projects, such as spreading wood chips this autumn) and we're currently planning a community celebration to take place in the park on the afternoon of Sunday, October 17th.  In addition to doing some maintenance work around the park on October 17th, we also hope to arrange entertainment for children and free refreshments for everyone.

Revitalization of Roxy Park is just the beginning: we know there are many other Glenelm residents of all ages who would like to be involved in making positive changes in our neighbourhood.  If you're interested in joining the GENA steering committee, assisting with funding applications or volunteering to help organize the October 17th event, please let us know by posting a comment here or sending an email to glenelmneighbours@googlegroups.com. Thanks!

Elmwood Park Revitalization

DETAILED PROJECT DESCRIPTION SUBMITTED TO THE CITY OF WINNIPEG IN SUPPORT OF A LAND DEDICATION RESERVE FUND APPLICATION: 

1. Community need /support for the project

Residents of the Glenelm neighbourhood have been concerned about the decline and neglect of Elmwood (Roxy) Park for many years.

Long-time residents have shared memories of what the park looked like and how it was maintained from the 1940s to 1970s.  While no paved walkways existed at that time, there were well-maintained gravel pathways throughout the park, along with well-tended flower beds, cared-for shrubbery, a greater number of park benches and better sightlines from the front (Henderson Hwy) to the rear (Red River) of the park.  Dating back to the early 1940s, the park included a lily pond, complete with a fountain (a picture and description appears on the reverse side of a 1941 City of Winnipeg Trolley, Bus and Streetcar Map) as well as facilities families could use to barbeque.

Daily users of the park include families with children, teens, dog-walkers, runners and cyclists.  They have expressed a variety of concerns about and recommendations to improve the park, all of which were included in the presentation we delivered to the East Kildonan-Transcona Community Committee on July 13, 2010 (attached).

Concerns centered around five key issues:
1. Fairness - In comparison to other city parks, Elmwood Park has been neglected over the years and this must be remedied.

2. Safety – Enhanced and expanded lighting, sightlines and walkways are essential to the safety of park users and immediate investment is required.

3. Stewardship – Turf is damaged repeatedly in spring, summer and fall; trees have not been pruned or banded; there is poor drainage in the playground area; and there are too few garbage bins in the park.  All of these conditions impact the park’s resilience and limit usage.

4. Recreation – At present, there is one picnic table in the park, the wading pool appears to be poorly maintained and along with the bathrooms, offers very limited hours of access. The sandbox area does not appear to be clean, there are no barbeque facilities (available in a number of other parks) and winter usage is not encouraged.

5. Aesthetics – The park has no flower beds, a total of six park benches (all located in the playground area), unattractive and poorly positioned signage and suffers from the regular application of graffiti.

To address these concerns and revitalize Elmwood Park, Glenelm residents are committed to working with the City of Winnipeg.  One expression of this commitment is our recent enrollment in the Adopt-a-Park Program.  Wherever possible and to the best of our abilities, we will endeavor to work collaboratively to help the park reach its full potential.

2. Community consultation 
Informal community consultation has been ongoing since 2007.  Frequent users of the park have been canvassed for their input, as have members of the Glenelm School Parent’s Council and other residents throughout the neighbourhood.

The input collected from these consultations was synthesized and tabled at the July 13, 2010 presentation to the East Kildonan-Transcona Community Committee  (see attached Powerpoint presentation).

3. City of Winnipeg staff involved in project to date
- Jonina Ewart, Bill Ward, Bob Jack, Shauna Prociuk, Andy Farrer, Dale Karasiuk, Ken McKim, John Kiernan

4. Scope of work
Details to be determined in concert with the City of Winnipeg (Jonina Ewart), but key elements noted in #5, below.

5. Cost of estimates
Specific costs will be determined in concert with the City of Winnipeg (Jonina Ewart).  However, based upon budget figures generated by Parks Services in 2008 and the improvements we are seeking, rough estimates are as follows:

PROPOSED EXPENDITURES
Previously costed by the City of Winnipeg:
Upgrading of existing light standards in playground area	$17,804.00
Installation of new light standards in the rest of the park	$52,690.00
Repair/extension of paved pathways throughout the park	$65,230.00
Installation of grass mats beside old and new pathways	$6,889.00
Re-grading of playground area to improve drainage	$1,650.00
5 new picnic tables (preferably more)	$8,250.00
Repair existing park benches	$2,860.00
Re-institute flower beds	$2,770.00
Sub Total	$158,150.00
Not yet costed but estimated roughly:
8 new park benches outside of playground area	$13,000.00
5 new garbage bins outside of playground area	$2,000.00
Banding of elm trees throughout the park	$600.00
Sub-Total	$  15,600.00
TOTAL EXPENSE	$173,750.00
ANTICIPATED REVENUE
Land Dedication Grant (Thomas) vote on Sept. 28, 2010	$139,000.00
Land Dedication Grant (Browaty) - to be confirmed	$34,750.00
TOTAL REVENUE	$173,750.00

6.  Project Schedule 

We are hopeful work will commence in September 2010 and be completed by Spring 2011.  However, details will be determined in concert with the City of Winnipeg (Jonina Ewart).

7. Attachments

Glenelm Neighbourhood Presentation to EK-Transcona Community Committee, July 13, 2010
(link to: http://groups.google.ca/group/glenelmneighbours/web/roxy-park )