The Cadre

Charlottetown's public transit

Confusion on new bus service for capital city

By Luke Leunes

There have been many misunderstandings surrounding the new Charlottetown bus system. You may have thought that the buses you see around are only forthe senior citizens, but for more than a year the Trius bus service has been a public transit alternative.

Last October, for their first two weeks of the new system, Trius had a trial period during which anyone could ride for free. Now they charge a modest $1.50 to get you any where around the Charlottetown area.

Trius has 4 routes that run on an hourly rotation covers Downtown, Riverside, Mayfield and Lower York. If your destination is not reached by the bus that is closest to you, then you receive a transfer slip that allows you to continue. You can ask the drivers to help you pick a route that is most efficient.

There will be changes to some routes, and the little-used Stratford runs have been dropped. They are thinking of pulling two buses from their routes, and forming a Charlottetown Mall- -K-mart loop. Another change which is in the works is a new

’ fleet of buses.

In trying to get the public's attention Trius has handed out fliers and has announcements on the local radio stations. They also have bus stop signs up and you can ask the drivers for a schedule.

I tried the busses for the firsttime last Thursday. took the bus from downtown to UPEI. It took 26 minutes and one conecting bus. If you have any questions or suggestions, call 566-5664 during regular business hours and ask for Pat MacDonald.

November 25,1997

Raising Awareness for Big Brothers - Big Sisters

Who are Big Brothers, Big Sisters and Big Couples? They are caring, reliable adults, from any walk of life, who are willing to share a few hours a week with a child.

What is expected of Big Brothers, Sisters and Couples? Their responsibility is to provide a one-to-one friendship to a child. They are not professional counsellors or disciplinarians.

Who are Little Sisters and Brothers?

They are children in need from single-parent families. Like any other group of children, some may be having problems, but most just want an adult friend.

How does the Big Brothers - Big Sisters program work? "Bigs" and "Littles" meet for a few hours a week as friends. They go for a walk, take in a movie or a ball game, bake cookies or just sit and talk. In short, they do whatever the both enjoy.

How do the volunteers and children meet?

Members of the Big Brother - Big Sister Association carefully “match" volunteers and children. Every effort is made to pair children and adults with similar interests.

How much does it cost to be a Big Brother, Sister or Couple? Some outings may involve small expenditures but "Bigs" are encouraged to keep spending to a minimum. The service is provided at no charge to children.

How will | benefit from being a Big Brother, Sister or Couple? You will have many enjoyable times - sharing a child's interests will expand yours too! You may make a lifelong friend and you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you have made a real contribution to a young person in your community.

For further information

contact your local Big Brother- Big Sister agency.

200 Richmond Street, Charlottetown, P.E.I. or call (902) 892-5979 Y Centre, Green Street, Summerside, P.E.1. or call (902)436-8122 Montague call (902) 838-0700.

We are ta need af ualuuteers,

erpecially Big B: