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)!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
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/
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:
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.
3. ServiceStat - another City mapping system that tracks graffii and other community service issues:
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
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
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
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!
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:
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 )
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 )
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