Tanya's baby shower

Hey Sistas, sorry about the delay...I had some trouble trying to get some of these pictures downloaded and up on the SISTA blog site. Computer kept acting up and freezing. But I finally was able to get everything figured out and put online.

Pictures from Community Kitchen Program

Uusha & Mosha from Community Kitchen Program.

Heidi and husband just after their "I Do's" at the New Alpha Missonary Baptist church.

The happy new couple walking down the aisle in church after their vows.

Wedding pics...

Another picture of the new bride Heidi & sista Shirley after the weddding at the New Alpha Missonary Baptist Church.

Wedding pics...

Here is a picture of Brian who is the son of the bride and his girlfriend (who is a soon to be mom!)

Wedding pics...

Here is a picture of sista Adline, the new bride Heidi & sista Kinda after the wedding.

Wedding pics...

The happy bride and Sista Shirley after the wedding.

Pictures from wedding

Hey sistas! We recently had a marriage this past weekend between Sista Heidi and her new husband.

Sista Jovita who attended Sista Tanya's baby shower will be having her own baby shower coming up in May. We will post further updates as we find out more information regarding this happy event.

Pictures from baby shower cont'd

Here's another photo taken at the baby shower of everyone who attended from left to right; Antoinette, Krystal, Mosha, Helena, Donna (mother-inlaw), myself (Angela), Sylvia, Jovita, Kinda, Michelle and in the Tanya the mother to be.

Pictures from baby shower

Hey Sistas, recently we had a baby shower for Sista Tanya who was expecting a baby girl! Here is one of the photos we took that day; as you can see dad is in this picture kissing the mother to be's tummy.

Inspirational Quotes & Sayings

Sistas here is a list of quotes that was started and we would like you to add your own onto, ones you remember or that were passed down from family, friends or mentors.

Culturally Related Inspirational Quotes & Sayings:

· A woman is the full circle. Within her is power to create, nurture & and transform
· Women are the architects of society
· Women are our first teacher
· Nobody can make you feel inferior without your permission. (use in poem for later)
· Find out who you are, take pride in yourself
· Define yourself- who am I?
· Know what you’re asking for, be sure of what you want
· Don’t be afraid to ask for help
· It takes a village to raise a child
· Is race or gender important about a person?
· If you know the truth it doesn’t matter what someone else thinks
· Accept people for who they are
· Don’t be afraid of the unknown challenge yourself
· Follow your heart, don’t listen to others
· Looking for Mr. Right in all the wrong places
· Investigate before making a decisions
· Be sure of all your options
· Confidence & self-esteem are empowering
· Every woman is unique
· No matter your ethnicity, your are special
· A woman’s body deserves love & respect
· A woman’s body is her temple
· Love your mind, body & soul
· Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
· A woman’s opinions & thoughts are important
· If you don’t believe in yourself, how can you expect others to believe in you
· Take time for yourself at least once every day
· A woman should walk & talk with confidence & be proud of who she is
· Big or small short or tall, a woman is beautiful differences & all!
· Respect one’s body, respect oneself
· Sex is momentary, sista love lasts forever
· Each woman has her own unique qualities
· A woman’s personality depicts who she is, not what someone else thinks
· Whatever doesn’t kill you will make you stronger (Fantasia B.)
· It’s just a phase you are going through
· If don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all
· Treat others the way you want to be treated
· If you can’t remember what you were about to say or
· Never do anything you are ashamed of admitting
· Don’t do the crime if you can’t do the time
· Don’t go messing around
· Don’t apologize if you don’t mean it
· Whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger

Other announcements

This month is Black History month and let us all recognize that education on black history should be year round. The events and peoples activism that shaped the present did not just happen in this month but throughout the years, months and days. One month is not enough time to learn about our history but it is a time to observe and be aware of what all took place and the people who made that difference, what we have been through up until this point in time and also to recognize that history is still being made.

On January 20th the 44th president of our United States was inaugurated into office. The man who took his place as the leader of America is an African American man. In my lifetime I am fortunate enough to witness this event, if even from a seat in a local bar/restaurant. I sat there at Nectars with my supervisor Kinda, us being the only two black people from what I could see, and the sense of unity and acceptance filled my heart. The place was full not with a lot of people of color but with white people who were there to celebrate this event. Everyone in attendance was happy and proud to be there. This made me feel good and proud of my country and my neighbors. By the end I shed tears of joy for the progress we have made, the struggles we have overcome and are overcoming still.

I thought about what all I’ve learned growing up and in school about what our past (and present) black leaders and fighters of justice have worked hard for. Our ancestors have worked and cried, fought and died for a day like this. To wonder what Martin Luther King would be thinking if he had survived the fight to be here, What Malcom X, Angela Davis or Rosa Parks, would say about this day or even to see the reaction on the faces of every slave and every oppressed black person who had to live through segregation and the injustices, inequalities and brutalities for years up to and even past the Civil Rights Movement. It’s unimaginable to me. I can imagine that it would seem impossible to many of them, but incredibly proud and life changing for every single one of them. Here is proof that America has come so far in treatment of black people and can see us as great leaders worthy of running this country. We went from being considered only 3 quarters human to now being able to sit the highest positions of elected power.

This event however is not just a victory for Black Americans; it is a triumph for all of America and the world. I was here and I got the see it in my lifetime. But the most important thing about this day to me was the fact that our young children growing up in this generation are able to have this as a model and motivator and as proof that they are just as equal as anyone else to be anything they what to be at any level of power and importance. Race and the color of their skin does NOT have to be a negative factor in their lives. My son can believe in himself, his country and his people. All people. I am proud to be a Black American woman.

Food Stamp Rules Have Changed
Save for Retirement - Save for Your Child’s Education - And Still Get Food Stamps!
In the past many people could not get food stamps because they had too much savings. Now you can have retirement and education savings accounts and still get the help you need, even if you have been denied before.
The Food Stamp Program is an important federal nutrition program that helps make sure people have enough food to be active and healthy. Households that participate can also receive other benefits like free school meals for your children and phone bill assistance!
For a food stamp application, call 1-800-287-0589 or visit www.vermontfoodhelp.com. For help with your application, dial 2-1-1, free from anywhere in Vermont, and ask to be connected to your nearest Community Action Agency.
If you are a senior, call the Senior Helpline at 1-800-642-5119.

SISTA Project
Starting in February 2009 new SISTA sessions will begin. Be a part of our Valentine’s/Condom Day kick party February 14 2009. Play games, win prizes, decorate adult cupcakes, and talk about special exciting ways of enjoying safe sex. Everyone takes home a gift. Please be a part. Come and have fun and gain information and share information while having a good time in the SISTA Project. Brought to you by SISTA United Alliance. For time and location information call Kinda Sharp-Garrett at 660-4875.

To anyone who can provide childcare, we at SISTA are always in need of a provider. Contact Kinda Sharp-Garrett at our new number 660-4875.

Be a SISTA volunteer! It is a great experience and a chance to meet new people and do a great service to the community.
Here is your chance! If you haven’t yet been a part of our SISTA sessions, BE A PART OF SISTA! It is a growing program and we need more participants. This is a program for women of color that discusses relationships, dating and safe sex. Sisters connect with sisters on building self-esteem skills, developing life experiences with coping skills and developing safer sex methods. We provide good food, exciting games/activities, door prizes and valuable information plus child care and transportation if needed. Call Kinda Sharp-Garrett at 660-4875 or email sistaunited@yahoo.com to set up an interview. Call soon and become a SISTA!

You can add to the SISTA experience. If you have either African art or art made by Black women, such as yourself, that you may want to donate to SISTA let us know. We could always use more supplies and volunteers to join us.

If you have any news or information on events contact us to let us know. We can all do our part to inform each other.
If you have family photos or any poems that you want to share, email them to us and we will include them in an issue of SISTA UNITED VOICES.

Feedback: Write us at sistaunited@yahoo.com with your feedback and let us know what you think. We will include your comments in our next issue.

Remember:

SISTA LOVE IS STRONG! SISTA LOVE IS SAFE! SISTA LOVE IS SURVIVING!

Children & Family Events:

After-School Chess Classes
Bob Claussen will teach multi-level chess classes for middle-school and high school students. Beginners, intermediate and advanced players are all welcome. Thursdays at 4:00 p.m. on January 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, February 5th, 12th, March 5th, 12th, and 19th.

Library Teen Advisory Board
The Teen Library Advisory Board meets to contribute ideas, plan after-school programs, and to design and carry-out projects to enhance the library as a vibrant community resource, under the supervision of Beth Yendrek, a member of the library staff. Wednesdays - January 7th, January 21st, February 4th, February 18th, March 11th, March 25th at 3:45 p.m. in the Library Conference Room. Group size is limited. For students in grade 9-12. Pre-registration is required.

After-school Teen Programs
The Teen Library Advisory Board will plan a variety of programs ranging from jewelry-making, book discussions and book talks, cooking, art and music programs, and special guest visitors. January 14th, January 28th, February 11th, March 4th, March 18th at 3:45 p.m. Stay tuned for future announcements of programs.

Story Time for Toddlers
For toddlers to age 3 to enjoy listening to stories, nursery rhymes, and finger plays. Please register. Tuesdays at 10:00am South Burlington Community Library 550 Dorset Street

Story Time for Babies
For non-walking babies and their parents to enjoy simple stories, songs and nursery rhymes. Please register. Thursdays at 10:00am, South Burlington Community Library 550 Dorset Street

Literacy Story Time for 3-5 Year Olds
For children ages 3-5 years old to enjoy stories by a different author each week as well as puppets, rhythm activities, and a simple craft. There will be no story hour Friday, December 26. Please register. Fridays at 10:00am South Burlington Community Library 550 Dorset Street

Outreach Story Times: Mrs. Marje, our Children’s Librarian, will visit area day care centers and pre-schools to read stories every Wednesday morning. South Burlington Community Library 550 Dorset Street

Tae Kwon Do K.I.C.K.S. Family Classes,
Children ages 4-6 and their parents from 3:45-4:30 p.m. and children ages 7-adult from 4:30-5:30 p.m. and 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tae Kwon Do lessons for the whole family starting with children as young as 4 through adults. Learn punching and kicking techniques along with self-defense. Increase physical strength, flexibility and confidence. Quarterly promotional testing and participation in state-wide tournaments for interested students 877-1022
Family Night Open Jam at the Metronome is every Sunday at 9pm. It’s free to all and family friendly so bring your kids out to the jam.

Family Autism Support 2nd Sunday of every month, 3 - 5 pmMontpelierAdmission: free for more information: 249-7961

Live Animal Feedings
Monday, November 3–Thursday, January 1, 10:30AM, 12:30PM, 3PM
at ECHO at the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain in Burlington. $7-9.50For more information: 1-877-ECHOFUN ext. 100
http://www.echovermont.org/

EcoKid's Craft Lab 11 am-1 pm
The Bobbin Sew Bar and Craft Lounge Burlington, Vermont
Kids crafts using recycled materials

Community and Events:

Welcome the NEW YEAR
Let’s hope this year 2009 brings more fortune and good news than the last!!!

Beginner Yoga
Looking to try something new? Would you like to learn yoga as a tool to help manage stress and improve focus? Learn enjoyable and easy to do breathing exercises, postures and relaxations that can benefit you from head to toes! Join certified Hatha Yoga Instructor, Sylvia Kabusk for this class designed specifically for the middle-school student. No flexibility is required. You may pre-register for one or all of the classes. Mondays - January 12th, January 26th, February 2nd, February 9th, March 9th, March 16th, March 23rd and March 30th at 3:45 p.m. Space is limited to 15. Wear comfortable clothing. For students in grades 5-8. Registration is required.

BROWN BAG LUNCH SERIES: Imagine if You Were Poor Like Me
We will have a screening of the documentary Imagine if You Were Poor Like Me produced by CCTV and Mercy Connections which features several Vermont women talking about living in poverty. Bring a lunch, tea and dessert will be served.Wednesday, January 14th at noon.

Sex Talk with Sue Johanson
January 16, 2009, 8:00 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.Davis Student Center, The Grand Maple Ballroom, University of Vermont, BurlingtonCost: $5 with UVM ID, $15 community. Sue Johanson is Canada's foremost sexual educator and counselor, recipient of the distinguished Order of Canada. For the last 30 years, she has provided frank and honest sexual education to thousands of Canadians through her lectures, radio programs, and the Sunday Night Sex Show on television.

Brothers and Sisters in Selma: Vermont Catholic Activism in the Civil Rights EraMonday, January 19, 2009, 7:00 pm St. Michael's College, 1 Winooski Park, Colchester, VTContact: (802)479-8500 or vhs-info@state.vt.us Program on Vermont Catholic activism during the Civil Rights Era.


Speaking From Experience Series with Rich Jr. and Jerry TarrantJanuary 20, 2009, 7 p.m. Champlain College, Aiken Hall, Morgan Room, Burlington
Join Rich Jr. and Jerry Tarrant, serial entrepreneurs and co-founders of mywebgrocer, a Colchester-based company that provides e-commerce and e-marketing services to more than 80 retail grocery chains as they talk about their entrepreneurial experiences in creating several successful businesses. Mywebgrocer was founded in 1999 based on a strong belief in the viability of the online grocery business. The company's core services include: website design, hosting, email, on-line circulars, recipes, personalized offers and, ecommerce. The Tarrants have an impressive record as entrepreneurs in the retail, real estate, and the health care industries.

Guinea through the Eyes of a Peace Corps Volunteer
Take a trip in your mind to Guinea, West Africa and see a side of Africa you do not normally see in the news. Mara Hayes, a returned Peace Corps Volunteer, will talk about her experiences living in a village of 3,300 Guineans for two year and then in the regional capital, Kan Kan for a year and a half. In her travels she met with extreme generosity, hospitality, desperation, fear, laughter, and unstoppable tears. In her presentation, Mara will bring alive what it was like to take a 16-hour bus ride with 30 people in a bus made for 12 and to eat a meal of rice and sauce with your hands sitting around a bowl of food with 15 others. She will bring some of the beauty and warmth from Africa to you. January 21st at 7:00 p.m.

Café Scientifique -- Nanotechnology: Size Does MatterJan 22, 2009, 6:30 pm-9:00 pm Burlington Contact: (802)324-3686With Dr. Dennis Clougherty, Department of Physics, University of Vermont.

Serving Returning Veterans & their FamiliesJanuary 30, 2009, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Capitol Plaza, Montpelier Contact: Traci Sawyers attracisawyers@bhnvt.org or Diane Robie at drobie@shoreham.net
Sponsored by Behavioral Health Network of VT.

Imani Youth Center Food Drive
The Imani Youth Center gives out boxes of food to low income people and families in the community from 2pm-3pm every third Friday of the month. If you feel the pinch of financial restriction and need to make food dollars stretch, get to the Imani Center and get your box of food.

The Old North End Time Bank
You're invited to join The Old North End Time Bank, bringing people together to help each other. For more information or to join, check out http://www.burlingtontimebanks.blogspot.com/ or contact Melissa at burlington.timebanks@gmail.com, (802) 651-1084.

French-English Conversation Group
Speakers of Anglais swap syllables with native French speakers in a parlez session. Sundays, November 2 through January 4, 4–5:30PM;
at Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. Free

International Club: Mondays, 3:30-5:00pm, Hauke Boardroom.

STAND: Student Anti-Genocide Coalition: Wednesdays, 4:15-5:15pm, Center for Service & Civic Engagement.

INCLUDE: LGBTQA ALLIANCE: Wednesdays, 4:00-5:00pm, Hauke 203.

Burlington Peace Vigil
Monday through Friday, 5 – 5:30PM
Activists stand together in opposition to the U.S. occupation of Iraq.
Salsalina Practice
Work on your sensuous nightclub routines at this weekly Latin dance session. Every Wednesday at 6pm at Salsalina Studios in Burlington For more information call (802) 598-1077

Poet’s Jam with Trevien Stenger at Parima Acoustic Lounge in Burlington
Every Monday night at 9:30pm

Jazz Jam at Radio Bean in Burlington FREE every Thursday at 6pm

Reggae Night with Double J & Doobie, Wednesdays, 10pm at JP’s Pub Burlington Free

Top Hat Entertainment Dance Party, Wednesdays, 10pm at Rasputin’s, Burlington. Free
Déjà Vu Ladies Night, Saturdays, 9pm at Second Floor in Burlington. Free

All Night Dance Party with DJ Toxic, Saturdays, 5pm at Tabu Café and night club, Plattsburg. Free

Monthly Old North End Community Dinner
All are welcome to the Old North End Community Dinners held the second Thursday of every month, 5:30 pm at the McClure Multi-Generational Center, 241 N. Winooski Avenue (next to the old Dairy Queen). FREE!
For more information call Charlie Giannoni at 660-9870. To donate food or help serve dinner, call Janet Hicks at 863-3860.

A Neighborhood Planning Assembly
(NPA) is held every month for each of Burlington’s wards. If you want to be more involved with and have a say in what is going on in your community, attend a Community Ward NPA. For more information, please go to http://www.cedoburlington.org/neighborhoods/npa/npas1.htm

Community Advisory Group
(CAG) is a group that needs the community members to have a part in determining the HIV/AIDS related services that are provided to the residents of Vermont. This group is important in promoting effective HIV/AIDS related care and prevention programs in the state of Vermont. To do this Vermont acts as an advisory group to the Vermont Department of Health HIV/AIDS/STD/HEP C programs on the issues of HIV/AIDS prevention and care. Help make these important decisions and get paid for your time! This membership calls for your involvement and attendance to bi-monthly meetings for which you will also be reimbursed for travel cost i.e. gas money.
Call Michelle Force HIV Prevention Supervisor at (802)863-766

Financial:

The program NeWheels Loans through Opportunities gets you new reliable cars at discounted prices and Budget/Credit Builder programs are available.
Call Yvonne at 802-865-8328 x122

Free Financial Education Classes for Opportunities Credit Union members:

Control Your Money: Budget & Savings
This is a workshop where you can learn budgeting and banking skills to help realize you financial goals.

To Your Credit Workshop
This workshop is for financially curious folks to learn how to read and improve their credit score. For more information call (802) 865-3404, x127

Homebuying Seminar
For would-be house hunters to consider the various steps in seeking a suitable space and obtaining a mortgage. Call Jane 802-865-3404 x127 to register.

CVOEO’s Growing Money Project has two classes that can help you build your financial stability.

Financial Self-Protection teaches about financial goal-setting, money and credit management, dealing with credit cards, managing spending and more.

Creating a Financial Future helps you to learn how to save and build net worth, and shows the first steps towards creating long term investments.

Think You Can’t Afford to Buy a Home?The Williston Interfaith Affordable Housing Task Force invites you to come and find out more about entry-level homeownership opportunities! Together with the Champlain Housing Trust, the Williston Interfaith Affordable Housing Task Force will provide information and resources about the home-buying process.
For more information, please contact: Coleen McBournie at the Williston Interfaith Affordable Housing Task Force - 800-445-6298 x25 - or - Liz Curry - 802-862-6244 Champlain Housing Trust

Homebuyers' Workshop - Before getting into debt, potential house hunters gather info about real estate valuation and mortgage financing methods. Saturday, August 16, 9AM–5PM at Central Vermont Community Land Trust in Barre. $60 per household

Health and Beauty:

Know your status and take control of your life and health. Get FREE HIV screening and counseling at SISTA United Alliance. Call for an appointment. (802)660-4875

FREE CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING DAY for Un/Under insured WOMEN Saturday, Jan 10th from 9am-1pm at three wonderful local sites: > - Champlain Obstetrics & Gynecology in Essex (802-879-1802) > - Maitri Health Care for Women in South Burlington (802-862-7338)> - Open Door Clinic in Vergennes (802-388-0137) > Reservations are recommended but not required। In addition to pap tests, breast exams, HPV DNA tests and HPV vaccines are available. Interpreters, childcare, and snacks are provided. The screenings are sponsored by The Hicks Foundation, Seventh Generation, Ladies First, and Kelliher Samets Volk. For more info:

www.freepap.orgVermont Commission on Women (VCW)126 State StreetMontpelier, Vermont 05633-6801802-828-2841 / 800-881-1561Visit www.women.state.vt.us and our history project website: www.womenshistory.vermont.gov

LET’S GET IN SHAPE!!!!

VT Cares hosts yoga classes every Thursday from 2pm-3pm at 113 Church St Burl
VT Cares Walk-in HIV testing on Mondays from 4pm-7pm

Zumba Fitness (Fitness Options)
Step-by-steppers try out Latin dance inspired exercises mixed with high energy, international rhythms at Fitness Options in South Burlington. $10 (first time free)
Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8pm through January 2009
At Olympiad Health and Racquet Club in South Burlington $10
For more information call (802) 310-6686 (802) 734-3479
Free Memory Screening: For adults 55 +, offered by UVM College of Medicine & Fletcher Allen Health Care on the 1st & 3rd Mondays of each month. Call Sally Ross Nolan for more information at 802-847-9488.
Beauticontrol Certified Beauty Consultant Diana Peters
Beauty and Spa products and Parties
To order or schedule a party contact:
Diana Peters
(802)598-4974 or e-mail pijamita@hotmail.com
Visit website: www.beautipage.com/dmp722


It’s hard to find a hair salon for us। So if you know anyone or any place that can do beautiful hair styling for ethnic women let us at SISTA Voices know.

Licensed Hair styling Specialist

Pauline Anderson (802)999-9022

Hair Braiding by Tonya Mitchell
Email: mailto:tonya%20goodgrace@yahoo.com

Other announcements:

SISTA Project
Starting in February 2009 new SISTA sessions will begin. Be a part of our Valentine’s/Condom Day kick party February 14 2009. Watch a movie, play games, win prizes, decorate adult cupcakes, and talk about special exciting ways of enjoying safe sex. Everyone takes home a gift. Please be a part. Come and have fun and gain information and share information while having a good time in the SISTA Project. Brought to you by SISTA United Alliance. Childcare will not be provided. For time and location information call Kinda Sharp-Garrett at 660-4875.

SISTA United Alliance is not just our organization, it’s YOUR organization। Help grow your community by participating, volunteering, donating or whatever you can do to contribute. We are branching out and have many new programs for you to take advantage of but we need you.

To anyone who can provide childcare, we at SISTA United Alliance are always in need of a provider. Contact Kinda Sharp-Garrett at 660-4875.

Be a SISTA volunteer! It is a great experience and a chance to meet new people and do a great service to the community.
Here is your chance! If you haven’t yet been a part of our SISTA sessions, BE A PART OF SISTA! It is a growing program and we need more participants. This is a program for women of that discusses relationships, dating and safe sex. Sisters connect with sisters on building self-esteem skills, developing life experiences with coping skills and developing safer sex methods. We provide good food, exciting games/activities, door prizes and valuable information plus child care and transportation if needed. Call Kinda Sharp-Garrett at 660-4875 or email sistaunited@yahoo.com to set up an interview. Call soon and become a SISTA!

You can add to the SISTA experience. If you have either African art or art made by Black women, such as yourself, that you may want to donate to SISTA. We could always use more supplies and volunteers to join us.

If you have any news or information on events contact us to let us know. We can all do our part to inform each other.
If you have family photos or any poems that you want to share, email them to us and we will include them in an issue of SISTA UNITED VOICES.

Feedback: Write us at sistaunited@yahoo.com with your feedback and let us know what you think. We will include your comments in our next issue.

Remember:






SISTA LOVE IS STRONG! SISTA LOVE IS SAFE! SISTA LOVE IS SURVIVING!

Family Events:

Holiday Stories
Children of all ages are invited to come and enjoy holiday stories and special treats. Please register.Thursday, December 11th at 6:30 pm South Burlington Community Library 550 Dorset Street

Story Time for Toddlers
For toddlers to age 3 to enjoy listening to stories, nursery rhymes, and finger plays. Please register. Tuesdays at 10:00am South Burlington Community Library 550 Dorset Street

Story Time for Babies
For non-walking babies and their parents to enjoy simple stories, songs and nursery rhymes. Library is closed Thursday, December 25 & January 1. Please register. Thursdays at 10:00am, South Burlington Community Library 550 Dorset Street

Literacy Story Time for 3-5 Year Olds
For children ages 3-5 years old to enjoy stories by a different author each week as well as puppets, rhythm activities, and a simple craft. There will be no story hour Friday, December 26. Please register. Fridays at 10:00am South Burlington Community Library 550 Dorset Street

Outreach Story Times: Mrs. Marje, our Children’s Librarian, will visit area day care centers and pre-schools to read stories every Wednesday morning. South Burlington Community Library 550 Dorset Street

Children's Miniature Horse and Buggy RidesChurch Street Marketplace, Top Block 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. FREE Courtesy of Fair Point Communications. Join us on the Top Block of Church Street for delightful rides in holiday bedecked carriages pulled by miniature horses from the Green Mountain Miniature Horse Club.

Bebop Playgroup
Adults indulge in coffee and bagels while kids up to age 3 meet their peers. Saturdays through Dec 13, 10AM at Bebop Baby Shop in Essex Junction, Free

ECHO Storytime - Young explorers discover the wonders of the natural world through books and imaginative play. Tuesdays through Dec 30, 11AM at ECHO at the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain in Burlington $7-9.50

Monday Music - Local musician Mia Adams tells stories and sings kid-friendly faves. In the JC Penney seating area Mondays, through Dec 8, 10, 10:30AM University Mall in South Burlington, Free

Tae Kwon Do K.I.C.K.S. Family Classes,
Children ages 4-6 and their parents from 3:45-4:30 p.m. and children ages 7-adult from 4:30-5:30 p.m. and 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tae Kwon Do lessons for the whole family starting with children as young as 4 through adults. Learn punching and kicking techniques along with self-defense. Increase physical strength, flexibility and confidence. Quarterly promotional testing and participation in state-wide tournaments for interested students 877-1022
Family Night Open Jam at the Metronome is every Sunday at 9pm. It’s free to all and family friendly so bring your kids out to the jam.

Family Autism Support 2nd Sunday of every month, 3 - 5 pmMontpelierAdmission: free for more information: 249-7961

Live Animal Feedings
Monday, November 3–Thursday, January 1, 10:30AM, 12:30PM, 3PM
at ECHO at the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain in Burlington. $7-9.50For more information: 1-877-ECHOFUN ext. 100
http://www.echovermont.org/

EcoKid's Craft Lab 11 am-1 pm
The Bobbin Sew Bar and Craft Lounge Burlington, Vermont
Kids crafts using recycled materials

Community and Events:

First Friday Art Walk
December 5th, 2008 5:00 PM - 8:00 PMOver forty galleries and art venues stay open late to welcome walkers and share Burlington’s incredible art scene. Take a guided tour or make your own. Pick up your copy of Art Map Burlington, First Friday Art Walk’s official publication, and your guide to art in Burlington or check out www.artmapburlington.com to see a list of participating venues. First Friday Art Walk and Art Map Burlington is sponsored by Art’s Alive, Burlington City Arts, Kasini House, Robert Hull Fleming Museum, and the South End Arts and Business Association. (802) 264-4839 info@artmapburlington.com http://www.artmapburlington.com/

Legacy Town Meeting
Come share your concerns about health, equity and the environment. There will be a FREE Community Dinner, childcare and performances by the Bosnian Lilies and the Burlington High School Jazz Band. The event takes place on December 9 at City Hall in Contois Auditorium from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. Contact emerrell@ci.burlington.vt.us for more information.

Thursday, December 11, 13, 14, 18, 19The Best Christmas Pageant EverWaterfront Theatre (60 College at Lake Street) 7:30p.m. "THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER!," presented by Catalyst Theatre Company, is a classic, poignant comedy of a good-hearted Mom trying to put on the annual church Christmas Pageant, despite having to cast "the Herdmans," -- the meanest, nastiest, most inventively awful kids in the whole world! Watch the sparks fly as the Herdmans meet the Nativity in a head on collision! This play is recommended for all ages and focuses on 30 CHILD ACTORS who experience working in a professional atmosphere alongside 10 adult actors. As in past years, numerous parents share the stage with their children, making this a family project. The show does sell out, so get your tickets early by calling 86-FLYNN.
Free Cider and Cookies Friday, December 12Outdoor Gear Exchange (152 Cherry Street) All day long. Warm up with cider and cookies while shopping for your winter gear at the Outdoor Gear Exchange.

Vermont Mozart Festival Celebrates the Holidays
Burlington – December 12, 2008
The Vermont Mozart Festival celebrates the holidays with Bach's Christmas Oratorio, Cantatas 4-6, William Metcalfe, the Oriana Singers and the VMF Chamber Orchestra. Tickets $27.50
First Congregational Church, South Winooski Avenue For more information, visit http://www.vtmozart.org/.

Holiday Gift Wrapping and Table Setting DemoApril Cornell (87 Church Street) December 13, 1:00pm and 6:00pm Stop by April Cornell and gain tips on how to make the perfect holiday table setting for dinner as well as how to create fun holiday gift wrap.

First Night Button SalesBurlington Town Center, December 13, 10:00 am - 4:00pm Purchase your First Night buttons in the Center Court or by the Church Street entrance at Burlington Town Center. Button sales also occurring on Saturday, December 20, and daily starting December 26-30

Community BreakfastDecember 13, 8am at the Second Congregational Church of Hyde Park $7/adults, $5/students and preschoolers are free.
Greek Pastry & Craft SaleDecember 13, 9am-3pm at the Greek Orthodox Church in Burlington, VT
A Christmas CarolFlynn MainStage, December 14, 7:00pmNebraska Theatre Caravan's beautifully staged musical adaption of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol features a 30-member cast, live orchestra, elegant costumes, lively dancing, and show-stopping special effects. This beloved performance shares the tale of tight-fisted, middle-class merchant Ebenezer Scrooge, and ultimately teaches the timeless lesson that a greedy world can be healed by brotherhood and unselfishness. A Flynn holiday tradition for 22 years! For more information call 86-FLYNN.

The VSO Holiday Pops concert
celebrates the season Friday night at the Barre Opera House and on Saturday night at the Flynn Center with both shows at 7:30pm. On Sunday December 14, the show moves to the Paramount Theatre in Rutland at 3pm. The VSO is donating 25% of all ticket sales to the American Red Cross relief services of Vermont.For tickets or the VSO CD "Christmas in Vermont", call 1-800-VSO-9293 or visit http://www.vso.org/

Merrill Lynch at 60 Lake Street in Burlington is again inviting senior citizens to phone family and loved ones anywhere in the world for free on Sunday, December 14th from 9am to 2pm. Refreshments will be served. Call Erin for more information or to make reservations at 660-1029


The Green Mountain Chorus will be caroling to ring in the Holiday season for some of our senior citizens. On Tuesday, December 16, from 6-8PM, the GMC will sing at the Converse Home in Burlington and the Allenwood Senior Residence in South Burlington.
Men's Night Tuesday, December 16, 17, 18Expressions (102 Church Street), 5:00pm - 9:00pmStop by Expressions, enjoy refreshments, bring in a wish list and get help finding something your partner would like. Free gift wrapping as well!

December 14, the Austin Handbell Choir of the First Congregational Church of Burlington on South Winooski Avenue is celebrating its 45th anniversary with a free public concert in the church's sanctuary at 3pm.

Live Fudge and Candy MakingLake Champlain Chocolates (65 Church Street) 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Enjoy free samples of chocolate, fudge and candy made in front of your eyes. This event repeats every Saturday through December 20.

Thanksgiving/Advent ConcertDecember 18, 12:15pm at the First United Methodist Church in Burlington, VT. Concerts are free and all are welcome.

Holiday Artist Market
Friday, December 19–Saturday, December 20, 2008Friday–11-7pm, Saturday–10-6pmContois Auditorium, Burlington City Hall Artists from the BCA Summer Artist Market join together with others to produce a festive holiday market of fine art, craft, and design objects.

2008 Christmas Concert
Gregorian chants are hauntingly beautiful in a way that is difficult to describe. The Fourth Annual Festival of Gregorian Chant and Seasonal Music, starting at 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, the 21st of December. This concert is also free and located at the Chapel of Saint Michael the Archangel. The music will be performed by the Vermont Gregorian Chant Schola.

December 24, 2008 Christmas Eve!!!
December 26-January 1, 2009 Kwanza!!!

First Night December 31
New Years Eve festival showcasing 500 performing artists including children’s activities, magic, comedy, theater, and more at 32 venues downtown.
New Years Eve Ball Dec. 31 - Jan. 1 Burlington
Join ballroom dance fans of all ages as we dance in the New Year Sheraton Hotel and Conference Center. 6:30pm -12:30am. Entry Fee, Info: 802-598-6757. Wheelchair accessible,
Web: www.firststepdance.com/events/NewYear2008.php Email: kevin@FirstStepDance.com

Volunteer to Help Your Neighbors Prepare Their Tax Returns
Last year, over 50 volunteers helped over 1,300 low-income taxpayers (including individuals with disabilities and limited English proficiency) file their taxes and get refunds of over $1.2 million. Be part of this effort this year by becoming an IRS-certified tax assistor. Training is available online and in classes taught by CPAs. For more information, contact Margaret Bozik at mbozik@ci.burlington.vt.us or at 865·7171.

The Old North End Time Bank
You're invited to join The Old North End Time Bank, bringing people together to help each other. For more information or to join, check out http://www.burlingtontimebanks.blogspot.com/ or contact Melissa at burlington.timebanks@gmail.com, (802) 651-1084.

French-English Conversation Group
Speakers of Anglais swap syllables with native French speakers in a parlez session. Sundays, November 2 through January 4, 4–5:30PM;
at Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. Free

Buddha in Paradise: Tibetan Art from the Rubin Museum
exhibition of richly colored tangka paintings and exquisite sculpture from the Rubin Museum examines these different “Pure Lands” and the underlying philosophical beliefs. Through Dec, 19
Fleming Museum 61 Colchester Ave. Burlington, VT 05405 Phone: 656-2090
PRICE: $5 adults, $10 family, $3 students and seniors. Free to Museum members; UVM, Burlington College, Champlain College, Community College of Vermont, and St. Michaels College faculty, staff, and students; and children 6 and under.

International Club: Mondays, 3:30-5:00pm, Hauke Boardroom.

STAND: Student Anti-Genocide Coalition: Wednesdays, 4:15-5:15pm, Center for Service & Civic Engagement.

INCLUDE: LGBTQA ALLIANCE: Wednesdays, 4:00-5:00pm, Hauke 203.

Burlington Peace Vigil
Monday through Friday, 5 – 5:30PM
Activists stand together in opposition to the U.S. occupation of Iraq.

Salsalina Practice
Work on your sensuous nightclub routines at this weekly Latin dance session. Every Wednesday at 6pm at Salsalina Studios in Burlington For more information call (802) 598-1077

Poet’s Jam with Trevien Stenger at Parima Acoustic Lounge in Burlington
Every Monday night at 9:30pm

Jazz Jam at Radio Bean in Burlington FREE every Thursday at 6pm

Reggae Night with Double J & Doobie, Wednesdays, 10pm at JP’s Pub Burlington Free

Top Hat Entertainment Dance Party, Wednesdays, 10pm at Rasputin’s, Burlington. Free
Déjà Vu Ladies Night, Saturdays, 9pm at Second Floor in Burlington. Free

All Night Dance Party with DJ Toxic, Saturdays, 5pm at Tabu Café and night club, Plattsburg. Free

Monthly Old North End Community Dinner
All are welcome to the Old North End Community Dinners held the second Thursday of every month, 5:30 pm at the McClure Multi-Generational Center, 241 N. Winooski Avenue (next to the old Dairy Queen). FREE!
For more information call Charlie Giannoni at 660-9870. To donate food or help serve dinner, call Janet Hicks at 863-3860.

A Neighborhood Planning Assembly
(NPA) is held every month for each of Burlington’s wards. If you want to be more involved with and have a say in what is going on in your community, attend a Community Ward NPA. For more information, please go to http://www.cedoburlington.org/neighborhoods/npa/npas1.htm

Community Advisory Group
(CAG) is a group that needs the community members to have a part in determining the HIV/AIDS related services that are provided to the residents of Vermont. This group is important in promoting effective HIV/AIDS related care and prevention programs in the state of Vermont. To do this Vermont acts as an advisory group to the Vermont Department of Health HIV/AIDS/STD/HEP C programs on the issues of HIV/AIDS prevention and care. Help make these important decisions and get paid for your time! This membership calls for your involvement and attendance to bi-monthly meetings for which you will also be reimbursed for travel cost i.e. gas money.
Call Michelle Force HIV Prevention Supervisor at (802)863-766

Employment:

DREAM Job - Hiring a Camp Director for Camp DREAM!
DREAM (Directing through Recreation, Education, Adventure and Mentoring)
The Camp Director’s primary role is that of facilitator - to support the Camp Team in the creation and completion of successful camp programming and to help foster connectedness among Camp Staff and DREAM’s Development and Local Programming teams. The Camp Director will also be responsible for ensuring Camp DREAM’s long-term sustainability by overseeing the annual budget, coordinating hiring, and leading fundraising efforts.
Starting salary is $27,500 plus healthcare, plus, life changing experiences! Interested?! Check out our website: www.dreamprogram.org for the full job description and e-mail recruit@dreamprogram.org with a resume, letter of intent, and two references.

Champlain Housing Trust has two positions
Loan Officer: Responsible for processing all loans from intake through final closing, including correspondence and eligibility determination with loan applicants, loans underwriting and analysis of credit and debt, providing disclosure, ordering appraisal, and title opinions, creating loan and closing documents, and performing closings.
Loan Fund Stewardship Specialist: Develops and maintains all post- closing loan portfolio systems and records for tracking and reporting, addresses all post-closing borrower issues including delinquencies, and keeps the loan fund in compliance with all policies and regulations.
To apply send a cover letter and resume to: Human Resources Champlain Housing Trust, PO Box 523 Burlington, VT 05402 or email: HR@champlainhousing.org

Other job openings:
· Burlington Police Office- full time-$40,392.35/yr
· City Arts Curator- full time- $17.64/hr
· Parks and Recreations City Kids- Seasonal part time- $8.50/hr
· Parks and Recreation Landscape workers- $9.00-$10.00/hr
· Burlington Electric Dept- Full time- Engineering Technician-$16.71-$27.40/hr
· Burlington Electric Dept- Full time- Supervisor of Customer Services- $35.25/hr
· Clerk/Treasurer’s Office- Full time- Program Analyst & Database Administrator- $927.64/wk
· Library Dept- Full time- Library Assistant- $14.92/hr
For more information on these positions visit: www.hrjobs.ci.burlington.vt.us/joblist.html

Financial:

The program NeWheels Loans through Opportunities gets you new reliable cars at discounted prices and Budget/Credit Builder programs are available.
Call Yvonne at 802-865-8328 x122

Free Financial Education Classes for Opportunities Credit Union members:

Control Your Money: Budget & Savings
This is a workshop where you can learn budgeting and banking skills to help realize you financial goals.

To Your Credit Workshop
This workshop is for financially curious folks to learn how to read and improve their credit score. For more information call (802) 865-3404, x127

Homebuying Seminar
For would-be house hunters to consider the various steps in seeking a suitable space and obtaining a mortgage. Call Jane 802-865-3404 x127 to register.

CVOEO’s Growing Money Project has two classes that can help you build your financial stability.

Financial Self-Protection teaches about financial goal-setting, money and credit management, dealing with credit cards, managing spending and more.

Creating a Financial Future helps you to learn how to save and build net worth, and shows the first steps towards creating long term investments.

Think You Can’t Afford to Buy a Home?The Williston Interfaith Affordable Housing Task Force invites you to come and find out more about entry-level homeownership opportunities! Together with the Champlain Housing Trust, the Williston Interfaith Affordable Housing Task Force will provide information and resources about the home-buying process.
For more information, please contact: Coleen McBournie at the Williston Interfaith Affordable Housing Task Force - 800-445-6298 x25 - or - Liz Curry - 802-862-6244 Champlain Housing Trust

Homebuyers' Workshop - Before getting into debt, potential house hunters gather info about real estate valuation and mortgage financing methods. Saturday, August 16, 9AM–5PM at Central Vermont Community Land Trust in Barre. $60 per household

Health and Beauty:

BURLINGTON NAMED HEALTHIEST US CITY BY THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL:According to a recent report 92% of people living in Burlington say they are in good healthmaking Burlington the healthiest city in the country! Parks and Recreation is proud to contribute to the health of our residents by providing parks for outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, community gardening and much more!

Know your status and take control of your life and health. Get FREE HIV screening and counseling at SISTA United Alliance. Call for an appointment. (802)660-4875

LET’S GET IN SHAPE!!!!

VT Cares hosts yoga classes every Thursday from 2pm-3pm at 113 Church St Burl
VT Cares Walk-in HIV testing on Mondays from 4pm-7pm

Zumba Fitness (Fitness Options)
Step-by-steppers try out Latin dance inspired exercises mixed with high energy, international rhythms at Fitness Options in South Burlington. $10 (first time free)
Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8pm through January 2009
At Olympiad Health and Racquet Club in South Burlington $10
For more information call (802) 310-6686 (802) 734-3479

Burlington Women's Adventure Boot Camp,
5:30-6:30 a.m. South Burlington High School through Nov. 14.
This is an early morning outdoor fitness class for women of all ages and fitness levels.
Website: http://www.BurlingtonBootCamp.com 764-5848.
Free Memory Screening: For adults 55 +, offered by UVM College of Medicine & Fletcher Allen Health Care on the 1st & 3rd Mondays of each month. Call Sally Ross Nolan for more information at 802-847-9488.
Beauticontrol Certified Beauty Consultant Diana Peters
Beauty and Spa products and Parties
To order or schedule a party contact:
Diana Peters
(802)598-4974 or e-mail pijamita@hotmail.com
Visit website: www.beautipage.com/dmp722


It’s hard to find a hair salon for us. So if you know anyone or any place that can do beautiful hair styling for ethnic women let us at SISTA Voices know.
Licensed Hair styling Specialist

Pauline Anderson (802)999-9022

Hair Braiding by Tonya Mitchell
Email: mailto:tonya%20goodgrace@yahoo.com

Other announcements:

900 Free Downtown Parking Spaces Added For Holiday Shoppers
Thanks to participating downtown employers, 900 additional parking spaces at downtown parking lots are available free to downtown holiday shoppers starting Friday, November 28 through Sunday January 4, 2009. Hours of availability are Monday through Friday, 6 PM to 10 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 9 AM to 10 PM, unless otherwise designated at each location.
The City of Burlington will place bright yellow sandwich board signs to guide shoppers to locations where free parking is available. Employers offering their parking spaces on evenings and weekends during the holidays include State of Vermont, City of Burlington, TD BankNorth, Pomerleau Real Estate, Howard Center, Main Street Landing, Chittenden Bank, and Grandview Farms.

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STATE OF VT PARKING LOT, Dept. of Labor, 59 Pearl Street
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STATE OF VT PARKING LOT, 50 Cherry Street, across from Macy's
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HOWARD CENTER FOR HUMAN SERVICES, 102 S. Winooski Avenue, next to Roxy Movie Theatre. Fridays only from 6 pm – 10 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 10 pm
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CHITTENDEN BANK PARKING LOTS:


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150 Bank St. across from Henry's Diner, Monday – Saturday, 6 pm – 10 pm; Sundays, 9 am - 10 pm


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2 Burlington Square, enter off College Street. Monday – Saturday, 6 pm – 10 pm; Sundays, 9 am - 10 pm
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SURFACE PARKING LOT, across from Ski Rack. corner of Main & Pine Streets
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CHAMBER BUILDING, 60 Main Street, enter on S. Champlain Street, Monday - Friday, 6 pm - 10 pm only, no weekend parking. This lot will not be marked with yellow sandwich board, but vehicles will not be towed on weekday evenings.
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ELMWOOD AVE PARKING LOT, north of the U.S. Post office in downtown Burlington.
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TD BANKNORTH corner of Main & St. Paul Streets, to accommodate Flynn Center patrons, no parking allowed during Flynn Center Events!!!
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SURFACE PARKING LOT BEHIND POMERLEAU REAL ESTATE, 69 College Street, entrance on S. Champlain Street
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SURFACE PARKING LOT (Pease West Parking Lot), foot of College Street, west side of Lake Street, near ECHO Lake Aquarium
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MAIN STREET LANDING PARKING LOT at foot of College Street next to Union Station at end of the Free College Street Shuttle. UNLESS NOTED OR STAFF ON DUTY!
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PERKINS PIER PARKING LOT, King and Battery Streets

FRIENDS OF LEDDY PARK HOLD CLEAN UP DAY:Thanks to all of the Friends of Leddy Park who came out November 15 to help clean up Leddy Park. It was a very successful day. A total of 11 volunteers collected 14 bags of trash and a large amount of metal/junk and blankets. In addition a group of people worked on trail maintenance and a large piece of metal was removed from the trail and braces were put in place to bank up the sloped trail for future dirt or gravel deposit. What a difference a day can make when a dedicated group of park enthusiasts donates their time and energy - thank you volunteers!
The SISTA Project has changed Organizations! You knew us before as Woman of Color Alliance, but WOCA has now closed. We have started a new Organization under which to run SISTA. SISTA United Alliance is not just our organization, it’s YOUR organization. Help grow your community by participating, volunteering, donating or whatever you can do to contribute. We are branching out and have many new programs for you to take advantage of but we need you.

To anyone who can provide childcare, we at SISTA are always in need of a provider. Contact Kinda Sharp-Garrett at our new number 660-4875.

Be a SISTA volunteer! It is a great experience and a chance to meet new people and do a great service to the community.
Here is your chance! If you haven’t yet been a part of our SISTA sessions, BE A PART OF SISTA! It is a growing program and we need more participants. This is a program for women of color that discusses relationships, dating and safe sex. Sisters connect with sisters on building self-esteem skills, developing life experiences with coping skills and developing safer sex methods. We provide good food, exciting games/activities, door prizes and valuable information plus child care and transportation if needed. Call Kinda Sharp-Garrett at 660-4875 or email sistaunited@yahoo.com to set up an interview. Call soon and become a SISTA!

You can add to the SISTA experience. If you have either African art or art made by Black women, such as yourself, that you may want to donate to SISTA let us know. We could always use more supplies and volunteers to join us.

If you have any news or information on events contact us to let us know. We can all do our part to inform each other.
If you have family photos or any poems that you want to share, email them to us and we will include them in an issue of SISTA UNITED VOICES.

Feedback: Write us at sistaunited@yahoo.com with your feedback and let us know what you think. We will include your comments in our next issue.

Remember:

SISTA LOVE IS STRONG! SISTA LOVE IS SAFE! SISTA LOVE IS SURVIVING!

Family Events:

Bebop Playgroup
Adults indulge in coffee and bagels while kids up to age 3 meet their peers. Saturdays through Dec 13, 10AM at Bebop Baby Shop in Essex Junction, Free

ECHO Storytime - Young explorers discover the wonders of the natural world through books and imaginative play. Tuesdays through Dec 30, 11AM at ECHO at the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain in Burlington $7-9.50

'Kids' Knight Out' - Ages 5-10 enjoy an evening of movies, crafts, swimming, food and more. Friday, November 7, 5:30–9PM at Ross Sports Center, St. Michael's College in Colchester. $10-15

Monday Music - Local musician Mia Adams tells stories and sings kid-friendly faves. In the J.C. Penney seating area. Mondays, through Dec 8, 10, 10:30AM at University Mall in South Burlington. Free.

Tae Kwon Do K.I.C.K.S. Family Classes,
Children ages 4-6 and their parents from 3:45-4:30 p.m. and children ages 7-adult from 4:30-5:30 p.m. and 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tae Kwon Do lessons for the whole family starting with children as young as 4 through adults. Learn punching and kicking techniques along with self-defense. Increase physical strength, flexibility and confidence. Quarterly promotional testing and participation in state-wide tournaments for interested students 877-1022
Family Night Open Jam at the Metronome is every Sunday at 9pm. It’s free to all and family friendly so bring your kids out to the jam.

Family Autism Support 2nd Sunday of every month, 3 - 5 pmMontpelierAdmission: free for more information: 249-7961

Live Animal Feedings
Sunday, November 2: 10:30AM, 12:30PM, 3PM;
Monday, November 3–Thursday, January 1: 10:30AM, 12:30PM, 3PM
at ECHO at the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain in Burlington. $7-9.50For more information: 1-877-ECHOFUN ext. 100
http://www.echovermont.org/

EcoKid's Craft Lab 11 am-1 pm
The Bobbin Sew Bar and Craft Lounge Burlington, Vermont
Kids crafts using recycled materials

Community and Events:

Interested in our Transportation Future?
The Chittenden County Metropolitan Planning Organization (CCMPO) will be holding a series of hands-on workshops to guide the future of transportation in Chittenden County:
Champlain Valley Union High School 369 CVU Road, Hinesburg Wednesday, October 29 - 6-8:30PM Directions: http://www.cvuhs.org/access/directions.html
Burlington Unitarian Church 152 Pearl Street, Burlington Wednesday, November 12 - 6-8:30PM Directions: http://www.uusociety.org/
Champlain Valley Expo 105 Pearl Street, Essex Junction Saturday, November 22 - 10AM-Noon Directions: http://cvexpo.org/directions.aspx
The three workshops will cover the same material - attend whichever session is most convenient for you! More information is available at: www.ccmpo.org/MTP.
For more information, contact Diane Meyerhoff, Third Sector Associates, 802.865.1794. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served. Meeting locations are fully accessible. Individuals who require special arrangements to participate are encouraged to contact Diane Meyerhoff at least 72 hours in advance (802.865.1794 or 711 for Telecommunications Relay Services).

'Microsoft Word'
Intermediate computer users explore a common type of word-processing software to create newsletters and resumes. Saturday, November 1, 15, 8, 10–11:30AM at Fletcher Free Library in Burlington $3, call to register

Day of the Dead
Mourners bring photos and candles to a healing ceremony for departed ancestors. Sunday, November 2, 5:30–7PM at 130 Church Street in Burlington. Free, bring vegetarian food and drink to share.

NOVEMBER 4TH- VOTE!!! 2008

For more information about voting locations and times for your town call the Secretary of State Office (802) 828-2464 email: kdewolfe@sec.state.vt.us web: http://www.sec.state.vt.us/.

'The Meaning of Yesterday's Election'
Barrie Dunsmore, a now-retired ABC News correspondent who traveled with seven U.S. heads of state, considers the local, national and global implications of the 2008 presidential race. Wednesday, November 5, 7PM at Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. Free.

'Cabaret'
Based on Christopher Isherwood's "Berlin Stories," this musical set during Hitler's rise has been a smash in both its Broadway incarnations. Wednesday, November 5, 7:30PM at Royall Tyler Theatre, UVM in Burlington. $9-19

Vermont's 14th Annual West African Dance and Drum Festival
November 6-16 2008 Jeh Kulu Dance and Drum Theater Presents several days of W. African Dance and Drum classes and performances at Memorial and Contois Auditoriums on Main Street in Burlington. Phone: 802-859-180 Website: http://www.jehkulu.org/ Email Address: jehkulu@yahoo.com

First Friday Art Walk-November 7th, 2008, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Over forty galleries and art venues stay open late to welcome walkers and share Burlington’s incredible art scene. Take a guided tour or make your own. Pick up your copy of Art Map Burlington, First Friday Art Walk’s official publication, and your guide to art in Burlington or check out www.artmapburlington.com to see a list of participating venues. First Friday Art Walk and Art Map Burlington is sponsored by Art’s Alive, Burlington City Arts, Kasini House, Robert Hull Fleming Museum, and the South End Arts and Business Association. (802) 264-4839, info@artmapburlington.com , http://www.artmapburlington.com/

Clothes for a Cause November 8, 2008
A Clothing Swap to benefit the Women's Rape Crisis Center will be held on November 8 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, at Avenue Bistro, 1127 North Avenue, Burlington, VT. Suggested $5 entry donation. Join us for a day shopping, desserts, and giving! Clothing & Accessories $1 - $20 and Raffle Prizes! The Avenue Bistro is hosting a Clothing Swap at their restaurant to benefit the Women's Rape Crisis Center and the work they do. You can support the Women's Rape Crisis Center through donating clothes, buying clothes, donating money, and buying raffle tickets.
* Please bring your clean, gently-used women's clothing to the Avenue Bistro by November 1. *
For more info, contact Catherine Slocum, WRCC, Catherine@stoprapevermont.org, 864-0555 x25 or Susan Rogers, Avenue Bistro, at 652-9999.

Greek Pastry Sale & Dinner
Break out the baklava and pass the dolmades! Home-baked treats crown this day-long, sit-down-or-take-out meal. Sale 10 a.m., dinner 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday, November 8, 10AM–7PM at Greek Orthodox Church Community Center in Burlington. $7

WOKO Flea Market
Bargain-hunters lose themselves in the state’s largest indoor tag and collectibles sale. Sunday, November 9, 8:30AM–2PM at Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction. $2

Italian Conversation Group
Parla Italiano? A native speaker leads a language practice for all ages and abilities. Wednesday, November 12, 7–9PM at St. Edmund's Hall, St. Michael's College room 101 in Colchester. Free.

The ‘Hip” Side of Cuba
Friday, November 14th, 7:00-8:30pm, Hauke Lounge 375 Maple Street. Join us for a night of music, history and fun with Toni Basanta, educator, music critic and Cuban broadcaster since 1989. Toni will bring some of his favorite recordings and clips to share with our community in honor or Latino Heritage. Be ready to dance and feel the heat with worldly infectious music in the voices of Yerba Buena, Celia Cruz, Yusa, Telmary, Sexto Sentido, El Cigala and Orishas. Also learn a few steps for your next party with members of the UVM Salsa and Swing Society.

Uncommon Alliance Transitional Leadership Meeting Nomination and Election
The purpose of Uncommon Alliance is to break down the barriers that exist between the affected community and the law enforcement community and to dismantle racial profiling through work that results in verifiable change. In order to realize this vision, the Uncommon Alliance Transitional Leadership will organize a meeting to gather interested people so that the group can collectively nominate and elect by majority vote the new Executive Officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer) of Uncommon Alliance. You are invited to participate in this nomination and election process. The meeting will be held on Saturday November 15th 10AM - 12PM at the Caribbean Buffet Restaurant located at 12 North Winooski Avenue. Light refreshments will be provided.

TICKETS NOW ON SALE MARKO THE MAGICIAN AND HYPNOTISTSATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2008, 6:30 - 8:45 pm
A benefit performance for Autism Daily, Ticket Prices $20 General Admission
S. Burlington High School Auditorium S. Burlington, VT

Sodexho Cultural Night (Native American): Wednesday, November 18th, 5:00PM,
Tower Room All students are invited to meet the ODI staff in front of the Cafeteria at 5PM and join them for a traditional Native American dinner and discussion.

Nikki Giovanni Vermont based photographer and author of American Photo Booth will be at Fletcher Free Library on Thursday Nov 20 2008 at noon. Nikki Giovanni will speak about the history of the photo booth at Booked for Lunch a popular lunch time lecture series at Fletcher free Library in Burlington. Come take part of this event that is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served and donations would be appreciated. For more information call (802)862-5153

BROWN BAG LUNCH SERIES: Thursday, November 20th, 12:30-1:30pm, Tower Room (SLC, Dining Hall) COTS SPEAKER: Come and learn about the COTS Initiative over lunch. What are the myths and realities of homelessness today, and what can be done to prevent it? These are two of the questions we’ll explore with a representative from the Committee on Temporary Shelter (COTS). COTS is Vermont’s largest provider of shelter, services and housing for homeless individuals and families in the state. You can purchase your meal in the cafeteria or bring your own!

November 27-

French-English Conversation Group - Speakers of Anglais swap syllables with native French speakers in a parlez session. Sundays, November 2 through January 4, 4–5:30PM;
at Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. Free

Buddha in Paradise: Tibetan Art from the Rubin Museum
exhibition of richly colored tangka paintings and exquisite sculpture from the Rubin Museum examines these different “Pure Lands” and the underlying philosophical beliefs. Through Dec, 19 Fleming Museum 61 Colchester Ave. Burlington, VT 05405 Phone: 656-2090
PRICE: $5 adults, $10 family, $3 students and seniors. Free to Museum members; UVM, Burlington College, Champlain College, Community College of Vermont, and St. Michaels College faculty, staff, and students; and children 6 and under.

International Club: Mondays, 3:30-5:00pm, Hauke Boardroom.

STAND: Student Anti-Genocide Coalition: Wednesdays, 4:15-5:15pm, Center for Service & Civic Engagement.

INCLUDE: LGBTQA ALLIANCE: Wednesdays, 4:00-5:00pm, Hauke 203.

Burlington Peace Vigil
Monday through Friday, 5 – 5:30PM
Activists stand together in opposition to the U.S. occupation of Iraq.

Salsalina Practice. Work on your sensuous nightclub routines at this weekly Latin dance session. Every Wednesday at 6pm at Salsalina Studios in Burlington For more information call (802) 598-1077

Poet’s Jam with Trevien Stenger at Parima Acoustic Lounge in Burlington
Every Monday night at 9:30pm

Jazz Jam at Radio Bean in Burlington FREE every Thursday at 6pm

Reggae Night with Double J & Doobie, Wednesdays, 10pm at JP’s Pub Burlington Free

Top Hat Entertainment Dance Party, Wednesdays, 10pm at Rasputin’s, Burlington. Free

Déjà Vu Ladies Night, Saturdays, 9pm at Second Floor in Burlington. Free

All Night Dance Party with DJ Toxic, Saturdays, 5pm at Tabu Café and night club, Plattsburg. Free

Monthly Old North End Community Dinner
All are welcome to the Old North End Community Dinners held the second Thursday of every month, 5:30 pm at the McClure Multi-Generational Center, 241 N. Winooski Avenue (next to the old Dairy Queen). FREE!
For more information call Charlie Giannoni at 660-9870. To donate food or help serve dinner, call Janet Hicks at 863-3860.

A Neighborhood Planning Assembly (NPA) is held every month for each of Burlington’s wards. If you want to be more involved with and have a say in what is going on in your community, attend a Community Ward NPA. For more information, please go to http://www.cedoburlington.org/neighborhoods/npa/npas1.htm

Community Advisory Group (CAG) is a group that needs the community members to have a part in determining the HIV/AIDS related services that are provided to the residents of Vermont. This group is important in promoting effective HIV/AIDS related care and prevention programs in the state of Vermont. To do this Vermont acts as an advisory group to the Vermont Department of Health HIV/AIDS/STD/HEP C programs on the issues of HIV/AIDS prevention and care. Help make these important decisions and get paid for your time! This membership calls for your involvement and attendance to bi-monthly meetings for which you will also be reimbursed for travel cost i.e. gas money.
Call Michelle Force HIV Prevention Supervisor at (802)863-766

Financial:

The program NeWheels Loans through Opportunities gets you new reliable cars at discounted prices and Budget/Credit Builder programs are available।
Call Yvonne at 802-865-8328 x122

Free Financial Education Classes for Opportunities Credit Union members:

Control Your Money: Budget & Savings
This is a workshop where you can learn budgeting and banking skills to help realize you financial goals.

To Your Credit Workshop
This workshop is for financially curious folks to learn how to read and improve their credit score. For more information call (802) 865-3404, x127

Homebuying Seminar
For would-be house hunters to consider the various steps in seeking a suitable space and obtaining a mortgage. Call Jane 802-865-3404 x127 to register.

CVOEO’s Growing Money Project has two classes that can help you build your financial stability.

Financial Self-Protection teaches about financial goal-setting, money and credit management, dealing with credit cards, managing spending and more.

Creating a Financial Future helps you to learn how to save and build net worth, and shows the first steps towards creating long term investments.

Think You Can’t Afford to Buy a Home?The Williston Interfaith Affordable Housing Task Force invites you to come and find out more about entry-level homeownership opportunities! Together with the Champlain Housing Trust, the Williston Interfaith Affordable Housing Task Force will provide information and resources about the home-buying process.
For more information, please contact: Coleen McBournie at the Williston Interfaith Affordable Housing Task Force - 800-445-6298 x25 - or - Liz Curry - 802-862-6244 Champlain Housing Trust

Homebuyers' Workshop - Before getting into debt, potential house hunters gather info about real estate valuation and mortgage financing methods. Saturday, August 16, 9AM–5PM at Central Vermont Community Land Trust in Barre. $60 per household

Employment:

Champlain Housing Trust has two positions
Loan Officer: Responsible for processing all loans from intake through final closing, including correspondence and eligibility determination with loan applicants, loans underwriting and analysis of credit and debt, providing disclosure, ordering appraisal, and title opinions, creating loan and closing documents, and performing closings.
Loan Fund Stewardship Specialist: Develops and maintains all post- closing loan portfolio systems and records for tracking and reporting, addresses all post-closing borrower issues including delinquencies, and keeps the loan fund in compliance with all policies and regulations.
To apply send a cover letter and resume to: Human Resources Champlain Housing Trust, PO Box 523 Burlington, VT 05402 or email: HR@champlainhousing.org

Other job openings:
· Burlington Police Office- full time-$40,392.35/yr
· City Arts Curator- full time- $17.64/hr
· Parks and Recreations City Kids- Seasonal part time- $8.50/hr
· Parks and Recreation Landscape workers- $9.00-$10.00/hr
· Burlington Electric Dept- Full time- Engineering Technician-$16.71-$27.40/hr
· Burlington Electric Dept- Full time- Supervisor of Customer Services- $35.25/hr
· Clerk/Treasurer’s Office- Full time- Program Analyst & Database Administrator- $927.64/wk
· Library Dept- Full time- Library Assistant- $14.92/hr
For more information on these positions visit: www.hrjobs.ci.burlington.vt.us/joblist.html

Health and Beauty:

Know your status and take control of your life and health। Get FREE HIV screening and counseling at SISTA United Alliance। Call for an appointment। (802)660-4875

LET’S GET IN SHAPE!!!!

VT Cares hosts yoga classes every Thursday from 2pm-3pm at 113 Church St Burl
VT Cares Walk-in HIV testing on Mondays from 4pm-7pm

Zumba Fitness (Fitness Options)
Step-by-steppers try out Latin dance inspired exercises mixed with high energy, international rhythms at Fitness Options in South Burlington. $10 (first time free)
Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8pm through January 2009
At Olympiad Health and Racquet Club in South Burlington $10
For more information call (802) 310-6686 (802) 734-3479

Burlington Women's Adventure Boot Camp,
5:30-6:30 a.m. South Burlington High School through Nov. 14.
This is an early morning outdoor fitness class for women of all ages and fitness levels.
Website: http://www.BurlingtonBootCamp.com 764-5848.
Free Memory Screening: For adults 55 +, offered by UVM College of Medicine & Fletcher Allen Health Care on the 1st & 3rd Mondays of each month. Call Sally Ross Nolan for more information at 802-847-9488.
Beauticontrol Certified Beauty Consultant Diana Peters
Beauty and Spa products and Parties
To order or schedule a party contact:
Diana Peters
(802)598-4974 or e-mail pijamita@hotmail.com
Visit website: www.beautipage.com/dmp722

It’s hard to find a hair salon for us। So if you know anyone or any place that can do beautiful hair styling for ethnic women let us at SISTA Voices know.

Licensed Hair styling Specialist

Pauline Anderson (802)999-9022

Hair Braiding by Tonya Mitchell
Email: mailto:tonya%20goodgrace@yahoo.com

Other announcements:

The SISTA Project has changed Organizations! You knew us before as Woman of Color Alliance, but WOCA has now closed. We have started a new Organization under which to run SISTA. SISTA United Alliance is not just our organization, it’s YOUR organization. Help grow your community by participating, volunteering, donating or whatever you can do to contribute. We are branching out and have many new programs for you to take advantage of but we need you.

To anyone who can provide childcare, we at SISTA are always in need of a provider. Contact Kinda Sharp-Garrett at our new number 660-4875.

Be a SISTA volunteer! It is a great experience and a chance to meet new people and do a great service to the community.

Here is your chance! If you haven’t yet been a part of our SISTA sessions, BE A PART OF SISTA! It is a growing program and we need more participants. This is a program for women of color that discusses relationships, dating and safe sex. Sisters connect with sisters on building self-esteem skills, developing life experiences with coping skills and developing safer sex methods. We provide good food, exciting games/activities, door prizes and valuable information plus child care and transportation if needed but you must call ahead. This is a place where you can have fun, watch a movie, play games, win gifts, connect with other women of color, talk, learn new things and just relax.
We are Supporting, Inspiring, Sharing, Teaching and Advocating.
Call Kinda Sharp-Garrett at 660-4875 or email sistaunited@yahoo.com to set up an interview and become a SISTA!

SISTA session dates:
Session 1: Ethnic & Gender Pride- November 15, 3-7pm
Session 2: HIV/AIDS Education- Nov. 22, 3-7pm
Session 3: Assertiveness Skills Training-Nov 29, 3-7pm
Session 4: Behavior Self-Management-December 6, 3-7pm
Session 5: Coping Skills- December 13, 3pm-7pm

You can add to the SISTA experience. If you have either African art or art made by Black women, such as yourself, that you may want to donate to SISTA let us know. We could always use more supplies and volunteers to join us.

If you have any news or information on events contact us to let us know. We can all do our part to inform each other.
If you have family photos or any poems that you want to share, email them to us and we will include them in an issue of SISTA UNITED VOICES.