renfrew-collingwood community news february 2016

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COMMUNITY NEWS RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com February 2016 Patients and patience Page 9 New Community Heritage Committee seeks RC memorabilia Carleton class. 1898 Joyce at Vanness Collingwood takes on the Young Liberals in a Vancouver Senior Amateur Baseball League game at Athletic Park, July 30, 1924 Avalon Dairy cart Inside Collingwood speaks up about housing developments Page 3 by Paul Reid The new Renfrew-Collingwood Heritage Committee is ready to carefully borrow, document, reproduce and return your historical photos (and other small mementos) of Renfrew-Collingwood. Working with advice from the Vancouver Archives and the Museum of Vancouver, the committee has created the forms that will enable the residents and former residents of RC to submit items for inclusion in a Renfrew-Collingwood historical collection. You can also have your items forwarded to the Vancouver Archives for consideration in its collection. This new initiative of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) was inspired by the lifelong work of local historians Sadie Gaston and her nieces Bobbi Senft and Jackie McHugh. To these three, our hats will forever be off for working so diligently to preserve our past for us in their extensive collection. With all three now departed, the torch of officially seeking out and preserving Renfrew-Collingwood history has been passed to the rest of us through this new entity, The Renfrew- Collingwood Heritage Committee. If you have something to be documented or that you would like to donate, please contact the committee through CNH at 604.435.0323. This photo, featuring lil’ Miss. Renfrew and lil’ Miss. Collingwood, is from the Gaston/Finlayson Collection. Do you happen to know the name of either girl? The Renfrew-Collingwood Heritage Committee would love to be able to identify the girls in this photo. Other photos on this page are from the Vancouver Archives

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February 2016 news stories from the Renfrew-Collingwood neighbourhood in East Vancouver. Local news on events, people, history, eating out, recreation, arts & culture.

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Page 1: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

COMMUNITY NEWS RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com

February 2016

Patients and patience Page 9

New Community Heritage Committee seeks RC memorabilia

Carleton class. 1898

Joyce at Vanness

Collingwood takes on the Young Liberals in a Vancouver Senior Amateur Baseball League game at Athletic Park, July 30, 1924

Avalon Dairy cart

Inside

Collingwood speaks up about housing developments Page 3

by Paul Reid The new Renfrew-Collingwood Heritage Committee is ready to carefully borrow, document, reproduce and return your historical photos (and other small mementos) of Renfrew-Collingwood. Working with advice from the Vancouver Archives and the Museum of Vancouver, the committee has created the forms that will enable the residents and former residents of RC to submit items for inclusion in a Renfrew-Collingwood historical collection. You can also have your items forwarded to the Vancouver Archives for consideration in its collection.

This new initiative of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) was inspired by the lifelong work of local historians Sadie Gaston and her nieces Bobbi Senft and Jackie McHugh. To these three, our hats will forever be off for working so diligently to preserve our past for us in their extensive collection. With all three now departed, the torch of officially seeking out and preserving Renfrew-Collingwood history has been passed to the rest of us through this new entity, The Renfrew- Collingwood Heritage Committee. If you have something to be documented or that you would like to donate, please contact the committee through CNH at 604.435.0323.

This photo, featuring lil’ Miss. Renfrew and lil’ Miss. Collingwood, is from the Gaston/Finlayson Collection. Do you happen to know the name of either girl? The Renfrew-Collingwood Heritage Committee would love to be able to identify the girls in this photo. Other photos on this page are from the Vancouver Archives

Page 2: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSFebruary 20162

At Selmak Realty Ltd., we offer 3 months free desk fee. We also provide free training to new agents. Our monthly desk fee is $75.

We welcome you to contact Selina Mak at 604-456-0873 or email to [email protected] for further information.

** Limited Time only & Other Terms and Conditions may apply**

誠意邀請房地產經紀加入本公司營業行列, 每月只須繳付 $75.00的行政費, 首三個月免繳付行政費。領有新牌無經驗者, 可享有本公司提供之免費完善培訓。

查詢詳情, 請電604-456-0873與麥太 (Selina Mak) 聯絡。

**以上優惠有條件限制及有附帶其他細則及條款**

Welcomes you to take advantage for these fantastic

introductory* offers:1 WEEK of UNLIMITED classes

Just $101 MONTH of UNLIMITED classes

Just $49

Far Infrared Yoga, Fitness and Fusion. We have something for everyone.

Joyce-Collingwood Skytrain station upgrade alertThe Joyce-Collingwood Skytrain station is undergoing upgrades to improve station accessibilityand safety. Work is scheduled to be completed by fall 2017.

Nighttime work can be expected while trains are not operating, including the use of light machinery and platform-level work. Demolition work is also expected to begin later in the spring. Crews will work around the clock to ensure that the upgrades are completed as quickly

and safely as possible for the benefit of residents and users of the SkyTrain station.

For more information about the impacts of construction at Joyce-Collingwood Station and to sign up for project updates, visit translink.ca/joyce. For any other questions or concerns, please contact:

Customer Service: 604.953.3333Overnight Customer Service: 1.866.979.0930

Page 3: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

3RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2016

CECILIA STEWARTRealtor & Home Stylist

6 0 4 . 816.1595www.ceciliastewart.ca

www.CSihomestaging.ca

604.261.7275109-5701 Granville StVancouver BC V6M 4J7

Neighbours share theirs concerns on development at the JARA community forum in November 2015. Photos by Kaitlyn Fung

by the Joyce Area Residents Association

Collingwood speaks up about housing developments

Renfrew-Collingwood is known as a diverse community, made up of people from different income levels and cultural backgrounds. Incoming development has the potential to drastically change the unique character of our neighbourhood by driving out our favourite local businesses and increasing rents.

The City of Vancouver is proposing rezoning that would allow three towers anywhere from 17 to 35 stories tall on three corners of Joyce-Collingwood Skytrain Station.

The Joyce Area Residents Association (JARA) has gathered the concerns of local residents and businesses. They say:

1. The neighbourhood will become unaffordable. Retailers and residents will be displaced.2. There are no concrete plans for affordable housing or community amenities from the City.3. The consultation process is inaccessible and there are not enough language services for people to participate.

In the past, our neighbourhood was affordable. Today, we cannot necessarily say the same. If expensive development is successful in

driving more of our community members out, the problem will only get worse.

Lorna Milo, who has lived in Renfrew-Collingwood for seven years, is struggling to find housing. “I am supporting my husband who has just immigrated to Canada and it’s a challenge to find housing in this neighbourhood for my growing family,” she says. “It is important that there are options for affordable housing in Renfrew-Collingwood so that I can continue living in my community.”

Our community has a chance to speak out and have our concerns heard at the City of Vancouver Open House for the Joyce Station Precinct Review on Wednesday, February 3, 2016, 5:00 to 8:00 pm, and Saturday, February 6, 11:00 am to2:00 pm, at Collingwood Neighbourhood House (5288 Joyce Street). Come 30 minutes before the open house times to collect your pins and signs in opposition to the development plans.

The Joyce Area Residents Association (JARA) is a community group of neighbours that want to ensure that Renfrew-Collingwood is a belonging place for all. For more info, visit joyceareaRA.wordpress.com

Learn about the plan for new development in Joyce-Collingwood at our upcoming Open Houses

歡迎出席開放日, 讓您了解更多有關 Joyce–Collingwood 區的新發展計劃。

FOR MORE INFORMATIONvancouver.ca/[email protected]

The City has been reviewing the existing planning policies within two blocks of the Joyce-Collingwood SkyTrain Station.

An Open House is being held to share the following:

• A preferred option for new development

• Draft policies on key topics such as housing and commercial uses

City staff will be on hand to answer questions and collect your comments at the Open House. Cantonese and Mandarin speaking staff will be available to translate. 能操國、粵語的職員將會在場協助翻譯。We hope to see you there!

If you cannot attend, all information and comment forms will be available at the Collingwood Neighbourhood House and online at: vancouver.ca/joycestation.

JOYCE-COLLINGWOOD STATION PRECINCT REVIEW

Open House Dates | 開放日

Wednesday, February 3, 2016 | 5 – 8 pm

Saturday, February 6, 2016 | 11 am - 2 pm

Collingwood Neighbourhood House5288 Joyce Street, Multi-Purpose Room

2016年2月3日 (星期三), 下午5時至8時

2016年2月6日 (星期六), 上午11時至下午2時

高羚活鄰舍中心 Joyce 街 5288 號, 主層多用途室

Learn about the plan for new development in Joyce-Collingwood at our upcoming Open Houses

歡迎出席開放日, 讓您了解更多有關 Joyce–Collingwood 區的新發展計劃。

FOR MORE INFORMATIONvancouver.ca/[email protected]

The City has been reviewing the existing planning policies within two blocks of the Joyce-Collingwood SkyTrain Station.

An Open House is being held to share the following:

• A preferred option for new development

• Draft policies on key topics such as housing and commercial uses

City staff will be on hand to answer questions and collect your comments at the Open House. Cantonese and Mandarin speaking staff will be available to translate. 能操國、粵語的職員將會在場協助翻譯。We hope to see you there!

If you cannot attend, all information and comment forms will be available at the Collingwood Neighbourhood House and online at: vancouver.ca/joycestation.

JOYCE-COLLINGWOOD STATION PRECINCT REVIEW

Open House Dates | 開放日

Wednesday, February 3, 2016 | 5 – 8 pm

Saturday, February 6, 2016 | 11 am - 2 pm

Collingwood Neighbourhood House5288 Joyce Street, Multi-Purpose Room

2016年2月3日 (星期三), 下午5時至8時

2016年2月6日 (星期六), 上午11時至下午2時

高羚活鄰舍中心 Joyce 街 5288 號, 主層多用途室

Page 4: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

4

The mission of this non-profit publication is to provide the residents, businesses and organizations of Renfrew/Collingwood with a medium for community communication.

Paul Reid: staff writer and layout coordinatorLisa Symons: sales and distribution coordinatorJulie Cheng: editorial coordinator

Contributors: Cari Chan, Robert F. Edwards, Kaitlyn Fung, Norman Hill, Joyce Area Residents Association, Taya Lawton, Suzanne Liddle, John Mendoza, Paul Reid, Vancouver Northeast WorkBC, Robert Yaeger Yes, You! Send comments, community events, press releases by regular post, fax or e-mail. Suggestions for improving the paper are welcome. We welcome appropriate, unsolicited editorial submissions if accompanied by the author’s real name, address and telephone number. The author should retain the original as we cannot return submissions without prior agreement nor does submis-sion guarantee publication. We reserve the right to make editorial changes.

Contact the RCCNews

Phone: 604-435-0323 extension 261Fax: 604-451-1191

Editorial: [email protected]: Phone Lisa Symons at 604.435.0323 email: [email protected]

Renfrew/Collingwood Community NewsCollingwood Neighbourhood House5288 Joyce StreetVancouver, BC V5R 6C9

The Renfrew/Collingwood Community News is an initiative of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH).

COMMUNITY NEWS

We want to hear from you!

Y o u C a n F i n d t h e RC Community News @

Libraries, Collingwood Neighbourhood House, Renfrew Park Community Centre, The Italian Cultural Centre, Collingwood Policing Office, other organizations, religious institutions, schools, laundromats, Starbucks, Rona, Superstore, Canadian Tire, Walmart, London Drugs and Safeway coffee shops, restaurants, markets, corner stores, other businesses, and coffee tables all over Renfrew-Collingwood.

Next submission deadline: Feb 10

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSFebruary 2016

A giant THANK YOU to the contributors and

advertisers that make the RCCNews possible.

Residents, please take note of our advertisers and

support them.

To Advertise with the Renfrew Collingwood

Community News

Contact Lisa at 604-435-0323

or email: [email protected]

EYE CARE CENTRE

St. Mary’s School

NURTURING THE HEART,

MIND & SPIRIT. We provide a comprehensive

education that embodiesthe Catholic faith.

Register your child for Kindergarten for the 2016 -2017 school year.

604 .437.1312 • www.stmary.bc.ca • o­[email protected]

5239 JOYCE STREET • VANCOUVER • BC • V5R 4G8

St. Mary’s Elementary SchoolFinal size: 5.125" x 5.75" (1/4 page)Publication: Renfrew Collingwood Community NewsRevised: November 30, 2015 - Revision 1

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Reflections of a Collingwood BIA street clean team memberby Robert Yaeger

I have been one half of the Collingwood Business Improvement Association (BIA) street clean team for more than five years. The other half of the team is Cindy. Recently, Cindy took some time off the team to take care of some personal problems. Several people along the route have asked me about Cindy so I thought I should clear that up first.

I have enjoyed my time in Collingwood and I have found the people here to be very friendly. I have always appreciated the praise I have received along the route for the work the team does. I also enjoy talking to people on the route. I do miss the Kingsway thrift shop not only for the much-needed clothing deals but for all the neighbourhood news (there were also a lot of funny personal stories).

The route, at least in my eyes, is a long one: four kilometres or about two-and-a-half miles. It is because of this that I owe a great thanks to the crew at Starbucks at Kingsway and Boundary for their generous use of their facilities. I also owe an equally great thanks to the Collingwood Public Library and the

great folks that work there. The library offers a very much-needed break from a long, physical walk in some challenging conditions. Of course, I would be remiss if I did not also thank the folks at Safeway for their assistance.

One of the things I really enjoy is seeing the new planter boxes with a truly varied collection of flowers and bushes. I have developed an affection for the cabbage-like flower that has recently come into its own. On a personal note, I wish people would stop stealing the flowers from the planter boxes. I would also encourage the City of Vancouver to stop taking away the blue garbage receptacles every time they repave Kingsway or when one gets hit by a car. The receptacles are never repaired, replaced or returned for some inexplicable reason.

I am hoping I can continue to work in Collingwood for at least a couple more years because they always say the first five are the hardest ( of course that’s just something made up but it seemed to make sense). Cheers.

Robert Yaeger travels across town to volunteer for the Collingwood BIA street clean team

Page 5: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

5RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSRENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2016

Vancouver Aboriginal Child and Family Services Society is seeking loving and dedicated foster parents who are willing to share their homes and provide foster care for Aboriginal babies, children, and youth in the Greater Vancouver area. We invite Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal applicants.

Information Sessions are held on the 1st Tuesday of every month at 6:45pm in our office at 3284 East Broadway, Vancouver. For more information, please email [email protected] or call 604-216-7447.

Two locations2582 Commercial Drive 604-707-66692889 Grandview Hwy 604-568-6121

freshslice.com

Come together right now with Freshslice Pizza

Any extra large pizza with three toppings:

*Pick Up Only *Redeemable with coupon *Grandview and Commercial locations

Only $9.99

Pick-Up Special

Be a Hero — Volunteer by John Mendoza

Sunset was falling on a beautiful late summer day in Vancouver. It was made even more spectacular because I was at Granville Island.

People were in deep conversation, some walking their dogs as they strolled the Granville Island sea walk. A tennis game announced its presence with the steady rhythm of a tennis ball bouncing on concrete. In the distance, bright lights shone from the south windows of False Creek Community Centre. In a very Vancouver moment, a kayaker slowly paddled his way west on False Creek. However, I was not one of those people enjoying the evening; I was working.

The work was pretty straightforward: sell and distribute tickets to patrons of the Vancouver Fringe Theatre Festival and help with ushering. The other volunteer and I also had to fill out the paperwork and also pack up the small table and other necessities at the end of the evening.

In return, we received a free t-shirt and a volunteer pass that enabled us to see some of the hundreds of show during the run of the festival. It was not difficult work; between shows, I was able to make small talk with the other volunteer, and to relax, whether it was people watching, grabbing a bite to eat during break and to watch the evening scene of Granville Island.

Although this happened a few years ago, one of the most vivid memories I had of that evening was this particular event. As the volunteer and I sat there, another volunteer approached us, carrying some things. I was surprised to discover that she was sent to look after the other volunteers on duty that evening.

“Would you like some hot chocolate?” she asked with a smile.

The volunteer and I looked at each other, and we answered yes. She poured two cups of hot chocolate and, afterwards, even asked if we wanted a warm blanket to wrap ourselves in. I had been dressed for the coolish temperatures of the late summer evening, and declined the offer for a blanket. However, I had been impressed with the fact that someone had been sent with these things, to take care of our fellow volunteers. For work, it wasn’t bad being able to sit, converse and sip a hot beverage while volunteering. In the middle of Vancouver’s forest

of ultramodern skyscrapers, it was wonderful to experience some warm and friendly interaction more associated with small-town Canada.

I never did remember the names of the people who I worked with that evening; that’s the nature of volunteering for a large-scale event. Sometimes you remember them; sometimes you don’t.

But there’s something heroic in people lending their valuable time and talents to assist in their community and to help others in a positive manner. We can choose to be anywhere: cocooned at home; pursuing a hobby, sport or pastime; spending precious time with friends and family.

There’s something extraordinary about someone who chooses to engage with the world, to help out their fellow citizen, and in turn to enhance where we live. Perhaps this will be the year that you get involved in volunteering in your own community. You will quickly discover that the benefits are often myriad for both yourself and society.

For volunteer opportunities in the Lower Mainland, go to w ww.govolunteer.ca for more information.

LOCATION: Classes will be taking place at Green Thumb Theatre (5522 McKinnon Street) on the site of Sir Guy Carleton Elementary

For Grades 1-3 & 4 -7

Information & RegistrationP: 604-254-4055E: [email protected]: greenthumb.bc.ca

March 14 - 18 | 9AM - 12:30PM | $150March 21 - 24 | 9AM - 12:30PM | $120

Page 6: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

6 RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSRenfrew Park Community Centre 2929 E,22nd Ave. 604.257.8388

February 2016

Family Coin Laundry 2088 Kingsway Phone: 604.876.4817

Collingwood Insurance 5750 Tyne Street Ph: 604.438.9888

Renfrew Park Community Centre 2929 E,22nd Ave. 604.257.8388

E.41st Ave.

E.33rd Ave.

Kingsway

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E.29th Ave.

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Boundary Rd.Nan

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Grandview Hwy.

Renfrew / Collingwood

The Tipper Restaurant 2066 Kingsway Ph: 604.873.1010

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Joyce Hair Design 5156 Joyce St. Ph: 604.451.7680

Papa John’s Pizza #300-3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.310.PAPA

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First Avenue Dental #116 - 2800 E1st Ave. 604.254.5040

Support your local businesses in Renfrew-Collingwood

Collingwood Neighbourhood House 5288 Joyce Street Ph:604.435.0323

JD

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Help support your

RCC News

Inquire about these Map Slide Ads

Contact Lisa at 604-435-0323

or email: [email protected]

Harvey’s Furniture and Appliances Still 2751 Kingsway 604-434-3151

Page 7: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

7RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSRENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2016

Papa John’s Pizza #300-3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.310.PAPA

What’s happening at your local libraryGet Involved

Open house – Development around Joyce-Collingwood SkytrainWednesday, February 3, 5–8 pmSaturday, February 6, 11 am–2 pmCollingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street, Vancouver

What do you think about new developments – such as increased density through low-rises and towers – surrounding Joyce-Collingwood SkyTrain Station?

The City of Vancouver is putting forward options for higher density zoning. Local residents and businesses are invited to attend an upcoming open house to review and comment on the options. The open houses will include City staff who speak English, Cantonese and Mandarin. For more information you may contact the City at 604-873-7727 or [email protected]

Crow Roost Twilight Bike RideSaturday, February 13, 4:45 pm - Meet with your bicycle at Renfrew Skytrain Station for the annual Crow Roost Twilight Bike Ride! Follow the crows on the Central Valley Greenway (5 km round trip). Dress for the weather, bring snacks to share and bike lights. This family-friendly event is organized by Still Moon Arts Society and Windermere Bike Society.

Chinese New Year Chinatown ParadeSunday, February 14, 2016This signature event of Vancouver’s Chinatown will feature lion dances, cultural dance troupes, marching bands and martial arts. This is an annual cultural extravaganza not to be missed. The parade will begin at 11 am. The Year of the Monkey in the Chinese Lunar calendar will begin on February 8th in 2016.

Three Links seniors care centre seeks parent, caregiver and children volunteersInterested in bringing light into the life of an elder in the community and introducing your child to the joys of volunteering? Three Links Care Centre invites parents and caregivers with young children to share an hour each week with residents, participating together in singing, storytime and games. Let’s bring generations of neighbours together! For more information, contact Liz at [email protected] or 778-452-6508.

Collingwood Branch Library, 2985 Kingsway, 604-665-3953

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS Early Readers Book Club – by registrationSaturdays: Feb.20, Mar.19 at 2:30pm - Children from Kindergarten to Grade 3 will discover the thrill of reading books and enjoying activities with new friends.

Kidszone - drop-inSaturdays, Feb.6, Mar.5 at 2:30 p.m. - Meet other kids and share books, crafts and fun activities at the library. For ages 6-12.

Funny iPad App Hour – by registrationTuesday Feb.9 at 2:30 p.m. - An hour of iPad play time using some of the funniest apps available. For ages 8-12.

Lego Block Party –drop inSaturdays, Feb.6, Mar.5, at 10:30 a.m. - Drop in to express your creativity with Lego and make new friends. Lego provided. For ages 6-12.

Family Storytime - drop in Thursdays Jan.21 – Mar.3 at 10:30 a.m. - Stories, rhymes and songs for the whole family.

Babytime - drop inThursdays, Jan.21 – Mar.3 at 11:30 a.m. - Songs, rhymes, lap play and books for baby.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Taxation and FilingFeb 9, 7:00 p.m. - Learn about tax benefits, tax credits, updates related to the recent budget, and tips on filing your income tax. Presented by Vancity, Collingwood Branch. Please note that this is not a tax clinic.

Seasonal Allergies: Prevention and Treatment Feb 17, 11:00 a.m. - many people prefer to use Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture modalities to manage or treat their seasonal allergy symptoms. presented in Cantonese by Dr. Jacqueline K.Y. Chan, Vancouver TCM College.

Citizenship, Immigration, PR Card: Three Classes SeriesFeb 24, Mar 2, Mar 9, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. - Want to know the requirements to get a PR Card and then citizenship? Presented by ISSBC. Free. To register call 604-395-8000, ext. 1763 or email [email protected] Branch Library, 2969 E. 22nd Avenue at Nootka, 604-257-8705

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS

Storytimes (Drop-in)

Babytime (0-18 months) - Wednesdays until March 9,

11:15 am Toddler Storytime (18 months to 3 years) - Wednesdays until to March 9, 10:15 am

Family Storytime (all ages) - Saturdays until to March 12, 11:15 am

Daycare & Preschool Storytime - Monthly on Tuesdays. Feb. 2, Mar. 1 & Apr. 5 at 10:30 am

Lunar New Year Puppet ShowTuesday Feb. 9, 3:30-4:30pm - Celebrate Lunar New Year with a festive puppet show.

Funny App HourFriday Feb. 12, 3:30-4:30pm - An hour of iPad play time using some of the funniest apps available. Please contact the branch to register. For ages 8-12. Space is limited!

Lego MondaysFeb 15 and 29, 3:30-5pm. Drop in to express your creativity with Lego and make new friends. Lego provided. For ages 6-12.

Afternoon at the MoviesFridays, 3:30pm. Drop-in - Join us on Friday afternoons for family friendly movies! Feb. 5: How to Train Your Dragon 2; Feb. 26: DumaMan in the MoonSundays – Jan. 17 to March 9, 3-4pm. Registration required - A unique program for dads and other male caregivers attending with children newborn to 18 months. Language play for very young children and the men who love them.

TEEN PROGRAMS

Chessmates!Every 2nd Monday, Feb. 22 to Apr. 18, 3:30-5pm. Drop-in -

Bring yourself or bring your friends. Join some fun and informal chess games! For ages 13-18.

ADULT PROGRAMS

Taxation and Filing with VancityTuesday Feb. 2, 7-8pm - Presented in partnership with Vancity. don’t let 2016 income taxes sneak

up on you! Learn about tax benefits, tax credits, updates related to the recent budget, and tips on filing your income tax. Note that this is not a tax clinic. Free! No registration required. Come early as this topic is popular.

Book Lovers’ Reading CircleMonthly on Saturdays. Feb. 20, March 19, April 16, 2:30-4pm - Book lovers unite! Connect with other avid readers to talk about what you’ve been reading and why you loved it – or didn’t.

Computer Basics WorkshopFriday Feb. 12 & Feb. 26, 10-11:00am - For learners who have some experience using a computer keyboard and mouse. Learn about computer files and folders and how to save them in portable storage. The same content will be covered on both dates. Free.

Libraries will get you through times of no money better than money will get you through times of no libraries. –Anne Herbert

Page 8: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

8 RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSFebruary 2016

How WorkBC can help you find your career pathDo you need help with your job search? Do you lack job-specific skills and need training to be job ready? Then visit the Vancouver Northeast WorkBC Employment Services Centre. Located next to the Broadway-Commercial Skytrain Station at 312-2555 Commercial Drive, the qualified staff are there to help you.

They provide a range of services to help you in your job search. If you wish to search independently, you can access the Resource Centre, which is complete with computers, a fax machine, job postings, job search resources and tip sheets, information about upcoming employer presentations, job fairs and resume/cover letter resources.

If you require further personalized assistance, you

can work one-to-one with a case manager who will assess your needs and together you will put together an employment action plan of services that will help you reach your goals.

Some of their services include job search workshops; short-term occupational training courses, job development and Job Start financial supports. Depending on eligibility, you may be able to get funding for skills training, self-employment training and wage subsidy, and to participate in opportunities through Project-Based Labour Market Training or Job Creation Partnerships.

Since the centre opened in April 2012, they have helped thousands of individuals to meet their employment goals. One such individual is John, who recently

moved to B.C. from Ontario. Since he was unfamiliar with the local job market, John decided he needed the one-to-one support of a case manager.

John’s background was in financial services and manufacturing. He also worked in car sales for over 25 years. Although his main employment goal was to find a position in finance, he was open to working in customer service, sales or in a warehouse in order to meet his immediate financial needs.

John’s first step was to complete all 12 job search workshops to learn about job search strategies in today’s BC labour market. John and his case manager met a few times to help him prepare two targeted resumes and cover letters, one for opportunities in automotive sales and the other for financial services.

To increase his employability, John completed two short-term occupational training courses, one to enhance his computer skills to help him increase his computer proficiency for finance and customer service/sales jobs, the other to gain certification as a forklift operator in order to prepare him for jobs in a warehouse.

While John was conducting his job search his case manager learned about a Project-Based Labour Market Training (PBLMT) program that taught participants about automotive sales and helped them obtain the necessary certification to work in this profession. With John’s prior car sales experience, attending the eight-week automotive sales training program at a local Vancouver college seemed like an ideal opportunity for John.

The case manager assisted John in preparing and submitting his application, and soon after, John was accepted into the program. Upon completing the program he was offered a full-time sales representative position at a car dealership.

John was happy with the services he received at WorkBC, stating, “I found the staff and resources very helpful and they gave me a direction—which path I needed to follow to find work.”

This job success story has been brought to you by the Vancouver Northeast WorkBC Employment Services Centre. For more or information about their services please contact at 604-708-9300 or visit www.employmentworks.ca.

Happy Chinese New Year The 2016 Chinese New Year falls on Monday, February 8. It is the Year of the Monkey, according to the Chinese zodiac. People born in the Year of the Monkey are said to be quick-witted, curious and mischievous. If you want to wish “happy new year” to your neighbours and friends, say “Sun nein fail lok.” The more popular saying “gung hay fat choi” is loosely translated as “may good fortune come

your way.” Every Chinese New Year, children are excited to receive red envelopes from their family and friends. Once children grow up and are married, they no longer receive the red envelopes but must give them out!

Page 9: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS 9RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2016

Patients and Patienceby Robert F. Edwards

Today, I’d like to share with my fellow Canadians, but especially my neighbours in Collingwood. I had the misfortune (or good fortune, whichever way one looks at it) that I had to have surgery done in the month of December 2015.

My surgery took place in the Vancouver General Hospital. The preparation of tests that went on before my actual surgery was state-of-the-art. As I was being prepared for surgery I realized how grateful I was not only to be in Canada, but to be in Vancouver. We always like to think we’re organized, one way or another. But these teams of nurses and professionals were like some kind of special SWAT team prepared for any type of situation—and they were.

The surgery obviously was a success. What also impressed me was after I came out of the anesthetic, I had one specialized nurse caring for my needs. When she and the doctors felt that I was stable enough to go to the ward, I had a private room and a nurse that was dedicated to no more than four of us. As my condition improved rapidly, due to the care and supervision of the doctors and nurses, I was able to go home after five days.

One week later, I had a relapse and had to go to the Burnaby General Hospital. Once again, in the emergency ward, the efficiency and the professionalism of all the staff were second to none. The doctor and the nurses as well as the other medical personnel left no stone unturned for my well-being. Everything from blood tests to x-rays and constant monitoring of my condition was all part and parcel of the everyday commitment to their profession.

The reason I’m sharing this with my fellow Collingwood neighbours and fellow Canadians is that we have one of the most remarkable medical facilities and personnel in the global community. It is not only the state-of-the-art equipment, it is the trained personnel of teams that coordinate to react to any situation at any time, day or night, 24/7.

Over the years, I’ve been very proactive with World Vision and have travelled to many other countries and communities and have seen first-hand their hospital facilities.

I was in Mongolia eight years ago and visited a hospital that had a pharmacy or dispensary that was smaller than one of our bathrooms, and if this wasn’t bad enough, it was sparsely stocked with medication. So even if the few doctors and nurses that were available realized what medications should be administered, there was none to be provided.

I was in Peru two years ago and visited a community of approximately 10,000 or more that had no doctors and one nurse to provide all medical attention that was required.

This year, I was in Honduras and went to a hospital where they provided care for 40,000 people in a large city. The emergency room consisted of three beds for the immediate requirements of people in dire need of medical aid. The maternity ward didn’t fare much better. There were six beds, which

two women would share, those that were in deep labour and the ones that had already delivered.

The reason I’m sharing these events is that being a Canadian, through and through, my patience is often limited and throughout Canada we have blamed the medical profession, from coast to coast to coast for the long waiting times when we needed some medical attention. I hope some of the readers will pass on what I’ve said to be both the Vancouver General Hospital as well as the Burnaby General Hospital (as well as others throughout the Lower Mainland) that I sincerely hope none of us Canadians have to witness, let alone BE a patient in other countries.

Robert F. Edwards is a longtime resident of Collingwood and a regular contributor to Renfrew-Collingwood Community News.

Collingwood

Lion Dance

Ce lebr at ion

EuclidSt.

to Wellington St.

Boundary to

Rupert

Collingwood BIA

The Collingwood BIA

A hospital bed in one of the major hospitals in Mongolia. Photo courtesy of Robert F. Edwards

Page 10: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

10 RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSFebruary 2016

New artistic director at Kickstart Disability Arts & CultureAfter two and a half years as artistic director of Kickstart, Emma Kivisild is stepping down. Under her tenure, the organization hosted its fifth disability arts festival (September 2013) and launched a new program direction of presenting artists throughout the year, rather than in a three-year festival cycle. The inaugural year of this approach featured the Fine Line Project, which presented everything from

readings to concerts to artist talks to Vancouver audiences throughout 2014.

The next year, Kivisild spearheaded the program called And I Shall Be Happy, which included a visual art show at the Pendulum Gallery and a well-received experimental performance of collaborative works at the Vancouver East Cultural Centre. To support these activities, Kickstart forged stronger community partnerships with the grunt gallery, the Queer Arts Festival and the Still Moon Arts Society, and continued working with long-time arts and disability partners like Real Wheels and posAbilities.

In Renfrew-Collingwood, Kickstart held regular gathering and discussion groups called Disability Arts Salons at Slocan Hall right by the 29th Avenue Skytrain station. The free salons focused on art created by artists who identify as living with a disability.

“MS [multiple sclerosis] is making it hard for me to continue being artistic director,” said Kivisild. “I participated in my first Kickstart

exhibition in 2001 and I love the organization. I will still be around, participating on the board of directors and attending events.” Taking over the reins as artistic director is Yuri Arajs. Arajs has a long history of working in the arts and representing artists who live with a disability both in Canada and the United States. He has run many non-profit arts groups, including galleries and multi-disciplinary organizations. He has worked as a curator for more than 15 years in the private and public sectors, and has been publically recognized for his work making the arts more accessible to people who live with a disability. Arajs is also a visual artist who has exhibited in Canada and the United States and has works in numerous private and public collections.

“I am so excited to be working with Kickstart,” says Arajs. “My first experience with Kickstart was in 2001 when Geoff McMurchy, founding artistic director, invited me to be part of the first Kickstart Disability Arts & Culture Festival. I participated by giving talks on representing and working with artists who live with a

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disability. The festival was full of creativity from around the world. I was so impressed and never forgot the experience!

“Moving forward, I hope to keep Kickstart in the public eye by hosting events on a regular basis, all year round. Our 2016/17 program will feature a series of artist talks, film screenings, art exhibitions, concerts and the ongoing Disability Arts Salon. Stay tuned for more details. I look forward to engaging with our cultural community through new and exciting programs that put disability art in the forefront.”

Kickstart Disability Arts & Culture is a registered charitable non-profit organization founded in 1998 by a group of enthusiastic and determined artists with disabilities. Thank you, Emma, for bringing artists of all abilities together at the Slocan Hall salons, and welcome to the neighbourhood, Yuri!

BERNIE’SNow serves Breakfast

Page 11: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS 11RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2016

The following is a paid advertisement by Adrian Dix, MLA for Vancouver/Kingsway

Dear Neighbors:

Happy Lunar New Year!

I would like to send my Lunar New Year greetings to you all. I hope that the Year of the Monkey will bring you all success, happiness and prosperity.

Come and celebrate the New Year with us on Saturday, February 20th! Visit our community office to welcome Collingwood BIA’s Lion Dance to our office. Refreshments and snacks will be served and everyone is welcome.

Lunar New Year GatheringAdrian Dix Community Office

5022 Joyce Street1:30 – 2:30 pm

the 43rd Chinatown Spring Festival Parade on Sunday February 14th. The parade route begins at the Millennium Gate at Keefer St and the full route can be found at the Chinese Benevolent Association of Vancouver’s website: www.cbavancouver.ca

Lastly, we’ll be attending the Chinese New Year Luncheon at Renfrew Park Community Centre on March 4, from 12 pm to 3:30 pm.

BC Legislature Spring Session

The house will return into session on February 9th, 2016. In the next session, we hope to raise issues such as BC Hydro and ICBC rates, seismic upgrading of schools, health care for seniors, improved housing, and safe streets.

I am always happy to hear your thoughts and ideas for legislation and would welcome any suggestions you may have for the spring session.

Norquay Village Plan Update

From September to October 2015, the City of Vancouver hosted an open house and questionnaire to gather feedback from people in the neighbourhood about the proposed zoning amendments. A public hearing was held on January 19 at City Hall and residents voiced their feedback.

For more information on this application, please visit:http://vancouver.ca/home-property-development/norquay-village-neighbourhood-centre-plan.aspx

Our community office will be closed for Family Day on February 8th. We will re-open Tuesday February 9th and very much look forward to serving our constituents upon our return. Finally, we wish you and your loved ones a great Valentine’s Day and Family Day!

The Seniors Connection

Join in the seniors activities at Collingwood Neighbourhood House by Suzanne Liddle

The seniors department at Collingwood Neighbourhood House ended 2015 with a very successful Christmas lunch and has had a great start to the new year!

The December 17 annual Christmas lunch marked the first year it was served in both sides of the large gym at the neighbourhood house and attended by 200 guests! Having combined the event with settlement services at CNH, we welcomed families from all over the world to share the festive fun.

The event had help from some very generous sponsors. CNH would like to thank the following businesses for their generous donations: Panaderia Latina Bakery, Starbucks (Kingsway and Boundary), Fresh Slice (Joyce Street), Save on Foods.

We are so thankful to be able to work with wonderful local businesses!

The event could not have taken place without all of the volunteers who came to help; we truly appreciate your time and effort.

With thanks especially to the Collingwood Community Policing Centre, youth settlement volunteers and the adult literacy group.

Brighten up the winter days by joining the recreational and wellness groups at CNH. Each Monday the Monday Fun Day group enjoys a variety of activities including

informative talks, games, exercise and arts and crafts. This month the group will have two sessions of bingo. The first Monday of each month we get together to celebrate birthdays with free cake for all followed by a game of bingo. It’s so popular we have decided to do it twice! February 22 will also feature bingo.

BC Hydro will be coming out on February 8 to talk about how to better insulate your home and give energy and money-saving tips. Learn how they can help you cut back your energy bills in 2016.

The Monday Fun Day group will be celebrating Chinese New year on February 15 and having a potluck on February 29. Monday Fun Day is open to everybody; it costs $2.50 and light refreshments are provided.

Each Thursday morning from 10 to 11:15 am join the seniors group for coffee and chat. This is a friendly welcoming group and new people are joining all the time. The Renfrew Collingwood Better at Home Walking Club will be meeting each Monday and Wednesday at 10:15 am for some exercise and companionship. Each Monday morning the club does a short local walk followed by coffee and each Wednesday they go on a longer walk in the city.

The seniors department is always happy to hear your suggestions for activities and workshops. Please stop by the neighbourhood house at 5288 Joyce Street or call 604-435-0323. We hope to see you soon! Suzanne Liddle is the Better at Home coordinator and seniors programs coordinator a Collingwood Neighbourhood House.

ST. JOSEPH’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

St. Joseph’s Elementary School is a Catholic, co‐educational school with classes from kindergarten to grade seven. At St. Joseph’s, we offer our students the opportunity to learn and grow in the Catholic faith and to become productive, responsible youth. In addition to teaching the BC Curriculum, we also offer a variety of extra‐curricular programs, both in athletics and in the arts.

St. Joseph’s School’s next Open House is February 17, 2016 from 10:00am‐7:30pm. Come for a visit!

Application Forms are available in the school office, from our website or at the Parish office at 1612 East 18th Avenue. Families of various faiths are welcome to apply and will be considered for acceptance.

A reasonably priced Afterschool Club is also available for students until 5:00pm.

3261 Fleming Street, Vancouver, BC V5N 3V6

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50% Discount SpecialsTuesday - Pizza

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Hasco, former owner of Roman Ristorante on Kingsway, invites all his old friends to visit him in Kitsilano

Page 12: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

12 RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSFebruary 2016

Read On! A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners

Read On! has a web page. You can:

Read the articles

Print worksheets

http://renfrewcollingwood communitynews.com/category/ read-on/

Reading levels on this page

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Family Day Is February 8

Happy Family Day! This year Family Day is on Monday, February 8. It is a holiday, so schools are closed that day and many businesses too. In British Columbia, Family Day became a holiday in 2013. This year, Family Day is on the same day as Chinese (Lunar) New Year.

There are many kinds of families in Canada and around the world. A nuclear family is made up of two parents and their children. It is the most common kind of family in Canada. Extended family means all the other family members outside of the nuclear family: grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and in-laws. Families that live with grandparents in the home are multi-generational families. A single parent family means a child or children with only one parent in the home. When couples with children divorce then remarry someone with his/her own children, they become a blended family.

There are many other kinds of families besides these. Some couples decide not to have children. Some adopt or foster (take care of a child that was not born to them) a child.

What kind of family do you have? What does family mean to you?

Family Name Game

How many of these family member words do you know? Try and see! Use the description to find the word for the family member. Answers are below.

Example: Your daughter’s daughter is your: granddaughter

1. Your sister’s husband is your:2. Your mother’s sister is your:3. Your son’s wife is your:4. Your mother’s aunt is your:5. Your grandfather’s father is your:6. Your husband’s sister is your:7. Your brother’s daughter is your:8. Your sister’s son is your:9. Your father’s brother is your:10. Your grandmother’s parents are your:

Family Day Is February 8 [3 stars]

Happy Family Day! This year Family Day is on Monday, February 8. It is a holiday, so schools are closed that day and many businesses too. In British Columbia, Family Day became a holiday in 2013. This year, Family Day is on the same day as Chinese (Lunar) New Year.

There are many kinds of families in Canada and around the world. A nuclear family is made up of two parents and their children. It is the most common kind of family in Canada. Extended family means all the other family members outside of the nuclear family: grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and in‐laws. Families that live with grandparents in the home are multi‐generational families. A single parent family means a child or children with only one parent in the home. When couples with children divorce then remarry someone with his/her own children, they become a blended family.

There are many other kinds of families besides these. Some couples decide not to have children. Some adopt or foster (take care of a child that was not born to them) a child.

What kind of family do you have? What does family mean to you?

[PHOTO – I DON’T KNOW IF YOU NEED A CAPTION, THE OTHER READ ON’S DON’T] Read On! author Cari Chan’s daughters and their cousins. [PHOTO] Cari Chan’s daughters and their grandfather.

Family Name Game [2 stars]

How many of these family member words do you know? Try and see! Use the description to find the word for the family member. Answers are below.

Example: Your daughter’s daughter is your: granddaughter

1.Your sister’s husband is your: 2.Your mother’s sister is your: 3.Your son’s wife is your: 4.Your mother’s aunt is your: 5.Your grandfather’s father is your: 6.Your husband’s sister is your: 7.Your brother’s daughter is your: 8.Your sister’s son is your: 9.Your father’s brother is your: 10.Your grandmother’s parents are your:

Read On! author Cari Chan’s daughters and their grandfather.

Page 13: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

13RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2016RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

RENFREW PARK COMMUNITY COMPLEX 2929 East 22nd Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5M 2Y3

604 257-8388 Fax: 604 257-8392 Website: www.vancouver.ca/renfrewrec

Jointly operated by Renfrew Park Community Association and Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation.

Winter Program Highlights Pre Teen Afterschool Hang Out (9-12yrs) Want to hang out after school with your friends. Looking for a warm and dry spot to hang. Come and join us for some games, video games, snacks and more. Thu, Fri Jan 14-Mar 11 3:30-5:00pm Free with One Card

First Aid Courses (14+yrs) Standard First Aid & Recert, Emergency First Aid & Recert, CPR C-Basic Rescuer & Recert. Sat/Sun Feb 6-7 Call for more details.

Hatha Yoga (19+yrs) Hisae McMichaelFor people who have done some/little Yoga and are looking for a moderate yoga class. We work on basic poses to relieve you from muscle pain and stiffness, to give you improved circulation and an overall better health. $10.48+tax/Adults, $9.52+tax/Seniors - drop-in if space. Thu Feb 18-Mar 24 7:15-8:30pm $52.50/6 sess Sat Feb 20-Apr 2 9:15-10:30am $52.50/6 sess

Special Event Highlights

Family Day (All Ages) Celebrate BC Family Day. Come join us for an afternoon of fami-ly fun. We’ll have games, crafts, face painting, balloon animals and a bouncy castle. This is a free event but registration is re-quired as space is limited. Sat Feb 6 12:30-3:00pm FREE

NEPP—Earthquake Preparedness (18+yrs) Wed Feb 10 7:00-8:30pm FREE

Victorian Castle Tour (55+yrs) Thu Feb 11 6:45am-7:30pm $132.38/person

Bowling at Revs (10-13yrs) Fri Feb 12 4:30-8:00pm $5/person

Afternoon at the Movies (55+yrs) Come out for a social time with lunch and a movie. Movie playing this month is Enchanted. Tue Feb 16 12:30-3:30pm $5/person

Wibit Inflatable Day in the pool for Family Day!

Saturday, Feb 6 from 2:00pm–4:00pm Come and join in the fun! *Regular admission rates apply

Winter Registration is ongoing, register early so you don’t miss out. For our full listing of programs check out our website or drop by and pick up a brochure. GST excluded. Registration has now started. Register early so you don’t miss out.

Whistler Snowboarding/Skiing Trip (13-18yrs) Enjoy the best downhill snowboarding/skiing conditions at Black-comb! Not only will you have a great time in the snow but you will have the opportunity to meet other youth from other community centres. Price includes transportation, lesson, rental (if needed) lift ticket, and lunch. Limited spots are available, register early and don’t miss out. Sun Feb 21 6:00am-6:30pm $109/person

Sweetheart Luncheon (55+yrs) Wed Feb 24 12:00-2:30pm $8.57/person

Holiday Hours of Operation Pool Fitness Ctr Centre Area Sat Feb 6 8:30am-4pm 9:30am-4pm 9am-5pm Sun Feb 7 1pm-5pm 1pm-5pm 10:30am-5:30pm Mon Feb 8 1pm-5pm 1pm-5pm Closed

Don Davies, MP

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Happy Lunar New Year!

Wishing you a Prosperous & Healthy Year of the Monkey.

Chúc MØng Næm M§i

猴年大吉

Still Moon Arts partners with Windermere Secondary and Nootka Elementary School students

February will Still Moon Arts Society busy with one of their longtime community collaborators, Windermere Secondary School.

Starting in early February, Still Moon is bringing in Brian Campbell of the Blessed Bee Farm and Bee School to talk about the world of bees with Ecology 9 students as an introduction to help them create a pollinator garden for native bee species at the ravine.

Later in February, artistic director Carmen Rosen will begin working with students in Windermere’s Leadership program to develop and create giant puppets with environmental themes for this year’s youth-led Earth Day Parade. Still Moon artists will also be working with Nootka Elementary School students to paint the lost stream that once flowed under their school grounds.

Brian Campbell of the Blessed Bee Farm and Bee School

Page 14: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

14

This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH)H I G H L I G H T S

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSFebruary 2016

CNH’s Community Lunch: increasing access to healthy food and building community by Norman Hill

COMMUNITY LUNCH Collingwood Neighbourhood House invites you to lunch every Tuesday and Thursday. Full meal prices are $6.25 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for students and $3.25 for children under 12. Items can be purchased a la carte or “to go.”

February lunch menu

Tuesday, February 2Cream of Broccoli SoupTurkey / Veggie EnchiladasSaladChocolate Cookies

Thursday, February 4Baked White Fish with Quinoa Steamed Vegetables Salad Coconut Milk Cookies

Tuesday, February 9Vegetarian Chinese CongeeChinese Pork / Veggie BunSaladEgg Custard Tart

Thursday, February 11Sweet & Sour Chicken or Tofu with Chow Mein Salad Almond Cookies

Tuesday, February 16Mushroom SoupSpinach or Meat Pie SaladLemon Cupcake

Thursday, February 18Chicken and Green Bean Stew on Rice SaladVanilla Sugar-free Pudding

Tuesday, February 23Roasted Pepper SoupCrab Cauliflower BurgerSaladWalnut Cookies

Thursday, February 25Meatloaf or Veggie loafRoasted Vegetables SaladBrownie

In these days of sky-high food prices, there’s still a place where can you get a healthy, delicious lunch for $6.25. At CNH’s Community Lunch, you can get an affordable lunch while also supporting access to healthy food and helping to build community.

Prices are even lower for seniors ($5), students ($4), and children under 12 ($3.25) for a delicious three-course lunch which typically includes a main course, a soup or salad, dessert, and coffee or tea. The lunch menu changes every day, but it reflects the seasons and the diverse food traditions of our neighbourhood. A recent lunch included a main course of delicious chicken or veggie kebabs seasoned with ginger, Italian spices, and lemon juice, which was served with a tangy

Tzatziki sauce, side dishes of roast potatoes and coleslaw, and a tasty baklava for dessert. February’s lunches include dishes such as Turkey or Veggie Enchiladas, Chinese Pork / Veggie Buns, and Meatloaf / Veggie Loaf. All the meals have a vegetarian option.

The lunches are very healthy, so they are perfect for those with health concerns. Community Lunch Chef Najia Elacel is careful to create balanced meals and to minimize salt, sugar and fat.

Community Lunch is well

attended with a wide variety of diners: seniors, parents with children, young workers, and newcomers to Canada. The lunch is very social—people come to see their friends and to make new connections.

Community Lunch is served on Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting at 12 noon. Lunch tickets, which sometimes sell out early, should be purchased at the front desk. People can also buy a Community Lunch card for six lunches, which allows them to save about 10% off the regular price.

For anyone who’s unable to participate in the lunch at 12 noon, take-out is another option. They can purchase a ticket in advance and pick up their food after the normal lunch.

A team of volunteers

helps Chef Najia prepare the lunches. Volunteers enjoy the companionship of their team members, a sense of making a contribution, and the pleasure of working with food. Volunteers are one reason CNH is able to keep the price of the Community Lunch so low.

Another reason for the low cost of the Community Lunch is that the program receives a generous donation from the United Way, which is used to help cover Chef Najia’s salary.

An added bonus of the program

is that any money left over after covering costs is always transferred to CNH’s seniors’ programs. So lunch participants can feel good that they are also supporting programs for local seniors.

The Community Lunch program helps increase access to healthy food by providing participants with a nutritious, affordable lunch. And the social interaction generated by the program—whether through participants chatting at lunch or volunteers working together to prepare lunch—helps to build community. “Community Lunch provides a space where people can enjoy healthy food while building connections and strengthening their capacity. It also helps address social isolation in our community,” CNH Food Security Coordinator Elise Barber said. It also helps address social isolation in our community,” CNH Food Security Coordinator Elise Barber said.

Everyone is welcome at CNH’s Community Lunch. People don’t need to speak English to participate, although the lunches can be a good place for newcomers to practice English. “Community Lunch is a great place to make friends and meet your neighbours,” Chef Najia said.

The Community Lunch menu is available on this page or online at http://www.cnh.bc.ca/programs/community-lunch/

A delicious lunch. Photo by Elise Barber

Participants enjoying Community Lunch. Photo by Elise Barber

Page 15: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

15RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2016

CBIA UPDATESl Collingwood Celebrated The Year of the Monkey - February 20th, 11:30 - 1:30pmCome out and celebrate Chinese New Year in Collingwood. Two colourful Lions will be touring the Collingwood businesses to bless them for a prosperous new year. New this year! Businesses along Joyce Street will also be participating. Look for the schedule on the website, Facebook or Instagram.

The Collingwood Jr. BIA will be out handing out lucky envelopes. Come out and let’s bring in a happy and healthy New Year.

Businesses and merchants who would like to participate in the Lion Dance Celebration please contact the Collingwood BIA at [email protected] or call 604.639.4403.

l Organic Ban is in full effectPlease ensure you are disposing all organic matter in the proper manner. Fines will be distributed if you are not abiding the by-law. Call 604.871.6443 or [email protected] Learn more at vancouver.ca/organicsban.

l Save the Date - Collingwood Days 2016 Events will be occuring in the Collingwood area between May 21 to May 29th. Collingwood Days festival is Saturday May 28th on the Carleton Elementary school grounds.

Call out to International Marketplace vendors, Food Court vendors, Farmer’s Market

Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH)H I G H L I G H T S

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

vendors, performers, martial arts and dance studios. Contact Angela Evans at [email protected] for more information or to see how you can participate.

l Calling All CBIA Members - Become more involved and Join the Board of DirectorsPlease contact us if you are interested on sitting on the Collingwood Business Improvement Association’s board of directors or on a committee. All meetings are held at 11:30 a.m. second Tuesday of the month. Help us make Collingwood the best in business.

l You can be the next Who’s WhoIf you are a business owner in the Collingwood BIA you can be featured in a Who’s Who article. It’s free to our members and a great way for your customers and the neighbourhood to get to know about you, your staff and your business. Email or call the office.

l Coming soon:~Winter Newsletter~Street Banner design contest. More information to follow.

l Follow us on Facebook Twitter Instagram!

Page 16: Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2016

16 RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSFebruary 2016

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November 12, 2015 – March 31, 2016

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Judith Seducing Holofernes, detail.Diptych, 73 x 96" (185.5 x 244cm)

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The Books of LoveCelebrate Romance with a capital R by checking out Vancouver Public Library’s romance paperback collection. The time for love is now! Here are a few of the most popular categories. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Contemporary Romance With a wide variety of settings, plots, and characters, Contemporary Romance takes place in present day, but otherwise anything goes until the happily ever after! Small town charm, big city life, rags to riches or exotic locales.

Call Me Irresistible

Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Head Over Heels

Jill Shalvis

Bet Me

Jennifer Cruisie

To Scotland With Love

Patience Griffin

Historical RomanceSet at any time in history pre‐World War II, Historical Romance is defined by the social history and customs of the time in which the story is set. The Regency period set in England, 1811‐1820 is the most popular era – think Jane Austen, all customs and social (dis)graces.

Frederica

Georgette Heyer

The Secret History of the Pink Carnation

Lauren Willig

Marriage Most Scandalous

Johanna Lindsey

Romancing the Duke

Tessa Dare

Suspenseful Romance Together with strong elements of suspense, mystery, adventure or thriller, Suspenseful Romance weaves in spies, detectives, police and a central conflict that inevitably drives the leads into each other’s arms.

Cold Dawn

Carla Neggers

Madam, Will You Talk?

Mary Stewart

The Unsung Hero

Suzanne Brockman

Northern Lights

Nora Roberts

Renfrew Library 2969 East 22nd Avenue, 604.257.8705 Booklist by Taya Lawton

Do you have a great idea to improve your neighbourhood? Apply for a Neighbourhood Small Grant - Applications open February 15

The Neighbourhood Small Grants program offers grants of $50 to $500 (and a few for $1,000) for residents to develop projects that meet the needs of the community. Neighbourhood Small Grants is a Vancouver Foundation program to help build community and strengthen connections right where people live. In Renfrew-Collingwood, the grants are administered through the Collingwood Neighbourhood House.

What kind of projects can you do?Examples of projects include block parties, digital storytelling workshops, book exchange libraries, canning workshops, communal cooking, murals and community gardens. Grant applications open on February 15. Find more info at http://neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca/To see a video of projects, visit http://neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca/whats-happening/video-creating-community-through-small-grants#.VqBX7JorL4Y

Greenest City grants The Greenest City Neighbourhood Small Grants program offers grants of up to $1,000 for residents of Vancouver to develop projects that contribute to the City’s Greenest City Action Plan Targets.

Find more info at http://neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca/grant/greenest-city-neighbourhood-small-grants

Questions? For more information contact Sheri Parke [email protected]