Cranston Chatter

By Meri R. Kennedy
Posted 4/20/16

Upcycled art gardens at libraries

A recent collaboration between Cranston Public Library and Artists’ Exchange is about to produce some remarkable results – upcycled gardens for …

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Cranston Chatter

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Upcycled art gardens at libraries

A recent collaboration between Cranston Public Library and Artists’ Exchange is about to produce some remarkable results – upcycled gardens for library lawns.

During the months of April and May, instructors and volunteers from Artists’ Exchange will hold free, drop-in craft sessions for children and teens at various Cranston Public Library locations. During the programs, Cranston youth will transform ordinary recyclables into blooms and blossoms fit for the season. 

The outcome? Unique pick-a-flower art installations to tie the community together in support of local arts and Earth Day.

Drop-in events will take place on various Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Any interested crafter, ages 10 and up, is invited to drop in and participate. No sign-up or registration is required.

Sessions will be held at the Oak Lawn Branch on Saturday, April 30; the Central Library on Saturday, May 7; and the William Hall Library on Saturday, May 14.

Each participating location is currently accepting donations of clean recyclables for use in this project. Needed materials include wire coat hangers, soda cans and bottles, two-liter soda bottles, water bottles, and colored plastic caps.

Job fair for veterans

Operation Stand Down RI and the student-led Enactus group at Bryant University will host a job fair for veterans from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on April 21 at the university’s Multipurpose Activities Center (MAC) at 1150 Douglas Pike in Smithfield. The fair will feature more than 60 local employers with immediate job opening for veterans. As part of OSDRI’s commitment to veterans the organization hosts an annual job fair for veterans looking for work. This year local partners include Bryant University, Walmart Foundation, Nordson Foundation, Network RI, and the Department of Labor and Training. There will be informational sessions in the morning starting with registration at 9:30 a.m. These include educational workshops about reintegrating into the workforce after deployment and readjusting to civilian life. Lunch will be provided to those that attend.

Tree program deadline extended

Mayor Allan Fung has announced the extension of the deadline for residents to apply for the 2016 Cranston Neighborhood Tree Planting Program. Once again, the RI Tree Council, a non-profit organization, will administer the program on behalf of the city.

“We continue to make Cranston one of the best places to live by contributing to the ‘greening’ of the city via this collaborative program with the Rhode Island Tree Council,” the mayor said through a statement. “I encourage residents to take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to the natural beauty of our city.”

The trees are between eight and 10 feet tall with a four- to six-foot crown spread. They will be furnished and installed in spring 2016 at no cost to the homeowner (a $250 value). Trees must be planted on the homeowner’s private property. There are only 40 trees available for the spring 2016 campaign.

To obtain forms and parameters of the program’s requirements, please contact the Tree Council at 401-764-5885 or ritree@ritree.org. The application deadline is May 1. A free tree will be awarded to the first 40 applicants who meet the program requirements.

Money Smart Week

The Cranston Public Library is pleased to announce its participation in Money Smart Week (April 23-30), a national initiative to promote financial literacy. This year, the library has focused its efforts on providing teens and youth with financial information by offering the following free programs at the Central Library:

“Plan & Pay for College Without Going Crazy or Broke,” Monday, April 25, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

As tuition and student debt spiral out of control, what should families do to best prepare for this potentially crippling expense? This seminar is given by Bill Geasey, whose education programs have been used for several years in schools, the workplace and for special groups.

“Budgeting for Teens 101,” Tuesday, April 26, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Join Chris Sicard of Coastway Community Bank for a discussion about the importance of setting a budget and tips on how to stick to it month to month. Learn how “paying yourself first” is the foundation of a setting a solid budget and being financially savvy, and more tips that never gets covered in high school.

Money Smart Week is a national initiative from the Chicago Federal Reserve and the American Library Association that promotes financial literacy awareness. Money Smart Week events are free and open to the public at businesses, financial institutions, schools, libraries, nonprofits and government agencies throughout the country on topics including kids and money, unemployment, managing student debt and retirement. To learn more about Money Smart Week visit, moneysmartweek.org.

The Central Library is located at 140 Sockanosset Cross Road in Cranston.

Schools seek slogan

Cranston Public Schools is seeking a motto, slogan, brand, or catchphrase to be used as part of its social media initiative. The new brand will be combined with a new logo and will appear on school department stationery, websites, emails, Twitter, and Facebook pages. With the help of the Cranston Education Advisory Board (CEAB), the district is asking anyone who is involved with the CPS community to offer suggestions via a link to a questionnaire, which can be found through cpsed.net or the district’s social media profiles. The suggestion could relate to any of the following aspects: school department history and traditions, aspirations for the future, current and future goals, students, excellence, etc. CEAB will receive these suggestions and will be helping to select the top three or four submissions. Once selected, the district’s Art Department will be sponsoring a student contest to design logos that incorporate and complement the phrases. The deadline for entries is Friday, April 29.

Blue Star Memorial

On Saturday, April 23, at 10:30 a.m., the Western Cranston Garden Club will be dedicating a Blue Star Memorial Plaque at the Senator John Chafee Athletic and Recreational Complex at 430 Hope Road in Cranston. This dedication is to honor all of our service men and women, past and present.

The Blue Star memorial project is a project sponsored by National Garden Clubs. The plaques are placed throughout the United States in small gardens planted by local garden clubs The intent of the memorial is to create a “ribbon of loving memorial plantings across America.” This is one of the longest-running projects sponsored by National Garden Clubs.

This dedication is open to the public. Public officials, members of the armed forces, veteran groups, as well as Boy Scouts have been invited to attend.

Book signing for ‘Bosom Buddies’

Stop in at White Light Books, located at 1464 Park Ave. in Cranston, anytime between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 21 for a book signing and readings from the new coffee table book, “Bosom Buddies” by Mary Jane Condon Bohlen of Cranston.

“Bosom Buddies” is a collection of photographs taken by Mary Jane and essays written by 29 local breast cancer survivors. The book is a celebration of the inner and outer beauty of breast cancer survivors.

Light refreshments will be served, and copies of the book will be available for sale. Half of the proceeds will benefit the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation. The Hope Bus, a 38-foot pink RV, will be on site, and someone will be available to answer any questions on the subject of breast cancer.

Combined class reunion

On Saturday, Aug. 13, beginning at noon, there will be a joint class reunion for the Cranston High School East classes of 1966 and 1981 at the Masonic Youth Center, 116 Long St., Warwick. There is no fee. Bring your own food and beverages. They will be celebrating their 50th and 35th year reunion, respectively. The events are for classmates and invited guests only. Richard Carlson is serving as the class administrator for 1966 and Glenn Carlson for 1981. Richard may be reached at 401-744-8635, or you may contact Greg Oden at 401-965-0983. Glenn may be reached at 401-641-8251. For further details, visit classreport.org.

Yard waste pickup

Yard waste pickup began Monday, April 4. Residents may put yard waste out on their regular trash and recycling pickup day.

Cranston Corner

The mayor’s office has launched “The Cranston Corner,” which provides periodic city news updates and alerts – including during inclement weather – via email. To sign up, visit the city’s website, cranstonri.com.

Special ‘Coffee with Constituents’

Rep. Robert B. Lancia (R-District 16, Cranston) will host his monthly “Coffee with Constituents” on Saturday, April 30 at Roger Williams Park before and after the Children’s Friend 5K Walk & Run.

“For the month of April, I invite everyone to join me for a very special ‘Coffee with Constituents’ in support of the Children’s Friend 5K Walk & Run.  It’s a great way to get outside in the fresh spring air, be active and air your concerns about what what’s happening in your state government,” Lancia said.

The Children’s Friend 5K Walk & Run will be held at Roger Williams Park on April 30 at 9 a.m. Lancia will be meeting with constituents before and after the race.  This event is sponsored by Panera Bread.

Earth Day cleanups with West Bay Land Trust

The West Bay Land Trust is hosting two clean-ups to celebrate Earth Day. The city of Cranston is partnering with the WBLT and will pick up and dispose of the debris collected at each site.

The cleanups will take place on Saturday, April 23, from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the following locations: Pawtuxet River Trail-Pawtuxet Depot, 230 Warwick Ave. (across from Stop & Shop) and the Knight Farm Property, with participants to meet at 500 Burlingame Road in Cranston.

Please wear sturdy shoes and garden gloves if you have them. There will be a limited supply at each site. Individuals, groups, and families are encouraged to lend a hand. While day of the event volunteers will be welcome, sign-ups are requested by emailing westbaylandtrust@hotmail.com. Emails should include the names of the individuals planning to help out. If volunteers are under 18, minors will need permission from a parent or guardian.

Each participant will have a chance to win a gift certificate to local vendors, and free water and juice will be provided. For more information, contact westbaylandtrust@hotmail.com.

St. Mary School Cranston searching for alumni

The bells of St. Mary School are calling all alumni for a celebration of 65 years of excellence in Catholic education on Sept. 17, 2016. To achieve this, the school is seeking input to compile an up-to-date database in order to contact as many as possible, beginning with the very first graduating class of 1960. Those responding should furnish the following: full name (maiden if applicable), current complete address, phone number indicating land and cell, email address, and graduation year. Submit via one of these methods: email to llepore@stmaryschoolri.org, Facebook (visit St Mary’s School Cranston Alumni), place a form in the collection basket at St. Mary Church in an envelope marked “Alumni,” or mail information to ALUMNI, St. Mary School, 85 Chester Ave., Cranston, RI 02920. It is gratefully appreciated that everyone reading this pass it on and share with other alumni.

‘From Rome to Napoli’

Opera Providence and the Cranston Senior Enrichment Center proudly announce “From Rome to Napoli,” an evening of food, friendship, and song. The event, to be held from 5:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. on Thursday, April 28 at the center, will feature celebrated opera arias and duets from Tosca and other Puccini favorites, as well as great Neapolitan songs. Tickets are $20, and are available at the center. For more information, call 401-780-6216.

Learn stop motion animation

Stop motion animation is coming to the Cranston Public Library, thanks to a legislative grant from Sen. Hanna Gallo. Create your own mini-movie using library tablets and apps. Participants will work in groups to write a story, draw a flip book, and film the pages to create a cut-paper stop motion animation masterpiece. The first workshop for grades four to eight takes place during vacation on Friday, April 22, from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Central Library. Space is limited, and registration is required by calling 401-943-9080.

A ‘charmed’ event

A “charmed” charity event to benefit Young Life Campers will be held at Alex and Ani Cranston, at 2000 Chapel View Blvd., on April 25 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Fifteen percent of sales will go directly to the organization. For questions or to RSVP, contact riyounglife@gmail.com.

May Breakfast for Defenders of Animals

There will be a May Breakfast held on May 1 at 10 a.m. at the Governor Sprague Mansion in Cranston to benefit Defenders of Animals. Reservations are $25 per person and musical entertainment will be provided. Seating is limited, and tickets are available now by calling Defenders of Animals at 401-461-1922.

May Breakfast at St. David’s

St. David’s on the Hill Episcopal Church, at 200 Meshanticut Valley Parkway in Cranston, is having a May Breakfast on Sunday, May 1 from 9 a.m. to noon. All are welcome. Celebrate spring and enjoy a variety of delicious gourmet pancakes (including gluten free, made to order) scrambled, eggs, sausage patties, bacon, and beverages.

For advance tickets costing $8 for adults and $4 for kids age 10 and under, please call the church at 401-942-4368. You can also buy tickets at the door costing $9 for adults and $5 for kids age 10 and under. For more information about St. David’s on the Hill and directions, visit online at stdavidsonthehill.net or check us out on Facebook at St. David’s on the Hill Church (Episcopal).

Save the date

The second annual CCAP Chip for Charity and Community Awards Dinner will kick-off with a round of golf along beautiful Greenwich Bay, followed by the 2016 dinner honoring Cranston Mayor Allan Fung. This is the largest fundraiser CCAP hosts during the year to benefit its programs and services. Last year, CCAP provided $2 million in uncompensated services to those in need in the community. For information on sponsorship opportunities, golf registration, or to purchase tickets, contact Lee Beliveau at 401-562-8353 or beliveau@comcap.org.

Almost May Breakfast

Woodridge Congregational Church welcomes members of the community to its 34th annual Almost May Gourmet Breakfast on April 30 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Donations are $9 for adults and $5 for children ages three to 10. On the menu for the all-you-can-eat breakfast will be eggs, frittatas, johnny cakes, waffles, ham, sausage, corned beef hash, home fries, baked beans, strudel, muffins, assorted pastry, coffee, tea, juice, and milk. For more information or to reserve tickets, call 401-942-0662 or email woodridgechurch@verizon.net.

Senior Studio Exhibit

The Cranston High School East class of 2016 Senior Studio Exhibit will be on display from May 12-26 at The Artists’ Exchange, located at 50 Rolfe Square. An opening reception will be held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 12. Students whose work will be featured are Saiya Chik, Isabel Nagy, Donita Irwin, Brady Curran, Soreyane San, Cynthia Gatua, Chrissna Chum, Marissa Nelson, Carla Dominguez, Ainsley Campbell, Alexandra Santos, Genna Companatico, and Angel Cajigas-Arbelo.

Did You Know?

Earth Day was first celebrated on April 22, 1970, officially as the birth of the modern environmental movement. Earth Day is coordinated and managed globally by the Earth Day Network. It was originally started in the U.S. but is now celebrated worldwide. Earth Day was founded by Sen. Gaylord Nelson, who also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award for his hard work and great initiative. (Earth Day Fun Facts)

To submit your news from the community, email Meri R. Kennedy at CranstonChatter@aol.com. Photos in jpg format are accepted and news can range from community events, promotions, academic news and non-profit events. Email today and see your news in our column in the Cranston Herald. Please include a daytime telephone number in case we require any further information. Be sure to check out our website at www.cranstononline.com.

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