POLICE ASSOCIATION OF NOVA SCOTIA 49 In the News... Kentville Library launches literacy fundraiser The fundraiser for Kentville Library’s Adopt-A-Library Literacy Program is off to a great start, thanks to a good turnout of enthusiastic supporters at the official launch last Wednesday. The fundraiser involves the sale of packets of note cards, which are printed with the image of an original painting by Coldbrook artist Birgit Jensen. Through a selection process, organizers chose Jensen as the official artist of the Adopt-ALibrary committee. “It was a hard decision, but when Birgit came in with this painting, we were floored and knew she’d be incredible to work with,” said Kentville Police Cst. Angie McWaid, who introduced the program to Kentville. Jensen said hundreds of hours went into the painting, which involved doing portraitures of children Katie Manning, Adam Reid, Julia Cann, Leo Petipas and Colton Oickle, all of whom live locally. Set on the grounds of the Kentville Research Station, Jensen’s oil on canvas depicts Cst. McWaid reading a book while surrounded by young people. The original painting will spend each year on display for six months at the Kentville Library followed by six months in the foyer of the Kentville police station. Jensen said, as an art, English and drama teacher, “the fact that I’m involved in this literacy program is very important to me.” The program, an initiative of the Kentville Police Service and the Annapolis Valley Regional Library, encourages kids to read by setting reading goals and providing them with rewards for their efforts. Since beginning in June 2004, young local participants have read 4,154 books. Proceeds from sale of the note cards will help keep the literacy program going. Mayor Dave Corkum, Police Chief Mark Mander, Kings North MLA Mark Parent and representatives from the Annapolis Valley Regional Library, including Wendy Trimper, Angela Reynolds and David Witherly, were among those who attended the launch. During the festivities, to the enjoyment of all a cake decorated with a picture of the painting was cut and Reynolds read the book, Aunt Pitty Patty’s Piggy. Branch manager Julie Johnson extended thanks to Kentville Rotary Club and to Colin Rankin, manager of Empire Theatre in New Minas, for their ongoing support for the project. The fundraising note cards, which are five to a package for $6, can be purchased at R.D. Chisholm’s in Kentville, the Town Hall, the police station on River Street, and at the library on Cornwallis Street. By Patty Mintz - The Regional Magazine, April 11, 2006 Coldbrook artist Birgit Jensen, Cst. Angie McWaid and Kentville Library branch manager Julie Johnson (from left) were among those on hand for the official launch of the Adopt-A-Library Literacy Program fundraiser. Jensen’s painting, shown here, is at the fundraiser’s core. As originally published
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