April 2014
COMMUNITY NEWS
RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com
Celebrate Earth Day, April 22: Get outside!
The government, the oil industry and the environment by Eugene Orina
How is the federal government’s management of the oil industry affecting the protection of the environment, with respect to the Environmental Protection Act? With advances in the oil industry making headlines across Canada, it is important to analyze for ourselves how this could affect the environment. The federal government continues to create plans for new pipelines and oil extraction, such as the Enbridge Northern Gateway Project. All of this causes concerns of how the environment will be affected by these oil projects, and whether or not the protection of the environment is at risk. In 1999, the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) was passed providing new provisions about fuels, water pollution and matters concerning other toxic wastes. How is the federal government’s management of the oil industry affecting the protection of the environment, with respect to the Environmental Protection Act?
In Renfrew-Collingwood, you can visit Renfrew Ravine Park, which runs from 29th Avenue near Atlin (across from the 29th Avenue Skytrain station) to 22nd Avenue and Renfrew (near Renfrew Park Community Centre). Still Creek runs through the heart of Renfrew Ravine before flowing down to Grandview Highway and then into Burnaby Lake. The loggers near Still Creek, around 1900, would have cut logs in what’s now the Renfrew Ravine. Source: City of Vancouver Archives Log P18
Family tree tips using social media Page 4
Auto crime alert Page 5
The Northern Gateway Pipeline project has sparked debate on how it would affect the British Columbia coast along Kitimat as well as the Fraser River. This project creates a large risk of having an oil spill in that area, which
Nootka school’s 50th anniversary Page 8
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Why so much garbage?
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
April 2014
Bill C-38 and our environment JOIN US AT OUR UPCOMING LEISURE FAIR! Explore recreation activities for children and youth with disabilities. Enjoy demonstrations by Sirota’s Alchymy at 6:30pm and Shiamak at 7:00pm
Victoria Drive
Where: Trout Lake Community Centre (Gym) 3360 Victoria Drive Vancouver, BC V5N 4M4 When: Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014 From: 6:00pm to 8:00pm Co ial erc
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Trout Lake Community Centre
by James Gonzalo Law 12 students attending Windermere high school researched the omnibus bill Bill C-38 and its effects on our environment. Bill C-38 is known as the Jobs, Growth and Long-term Prosperity Act which would help bolster Canada’s economic strengths and address the important challenges confronting the economy over the long term.
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LEISURE FAIR 2014
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20 Victoria (Victoria Diversion and Commercial Street bus stop) 20 Downtown (Victoria Diversion and Porter Street bus stop) Trout Lake Community Centre (three-minute walk from the stop) You can take 20 Victoria from Broadway Commercial Station if coming from the Skytrain. Bus stop is in front of Starbucks.
For more information, contact Michael Hajduk at mhajduk@develop.bc.ca or 604.301.2831
However, there is a catch; the elements of the act will horribly affect our environment. Elements such as giving discretionary powers to ministers and cabinets. This will result in, but not be limited to, giving the government the power to decide whether a project will require an environmental assessment. To elaborate, governments can and are allowed to pursue and execute projects that have negative impacts on our environment. Also the element of the bill eliminates oversight of government agencies and activities. For example abolishing the Kyoto Protocol Implantation Act, and abolishing the office of the Inspector General of the Canadian Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS).
Bill C-38 also includes the reducing the level of protection offered by the Fisheries act. The change in the Fisheries Act allows harm to fish, short of death, is allowable such as mutation, reduced reproduction, illness and so forth. Bill C-38 doesn’t just affect our environment, but will also affect our implications for democracy, Impacts on Aboriginal people and communities, Changes to environmental, protection and management, impacts on social security, labour, rights, jobs and oversight of food safety. As one can see, this bill is dangerous and changes many aspects of Canada. I have come to a conclusion that the Harper government is attempting to boost Canada’s economy at the price of our environment. James Gonzalo is taking Law 12 at Windermere high school. He submitted the results of his research in this article to create public awareness about the effects of Bill C-39.
Don Davies, MP Member of Parliament for Vancouver Kingsway
April 22 is Earth Day!
Let us commit to living sustainably so we can protect our Earth for future generations. 2951 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5R 5J4 Tel: 604-775-6263 Email: Don.Davies@parl.gc.ca
@DonDavies
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Protecting Canada’s water quality by Dianne Hoang The federal government is protecting the water quality of Canada in various ways. To begin with, the Environmental Protection Act of 1999 is an important part of Canada’s federal environmental legislation. Its goals are to prevent pollution, protect the environment and people’s health as well as contribute to sustainable development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising needs of future generations. Some government approaches to protect Canada’s waters are managing vast water resources, reducing pollution at the source, taking action on toxic substances, monitoring water quality, investing in infrastructure, developing regulations, investing in water research, and making international contributions. The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) represents an opportunity to introduce improvements and is a plan for Canada’s sustainable future. It is a three-year strategy and was started in 2010 by Minister of the Environment Jim Prentice. Among the four main themes of sustainability, one is maintaining the water quality of fresh, marine and drinking water. The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy of 2013-2016 is similar to the previous FSDS with a few changes. However, the Minister of Environment is now Leona Aglukkaq. For more information, visit http:// www.ec.gc.ca/dd-sd/default. asp?lang=en&n=AD293762-1. The federal government’s goal is to protect and enhance water quality so it supports healthy ecosystems and is clean and safe for all Canadians. Their roles include managing water on Aboriginal and federal lands, fisheries, boundary and transboundary water, water monitoring, and water-related research. The Government of Canada continues to help Canadians restore polluted lakes and marine ecosystems by allocating
$96 million in clean-up funding, and they are trying to use a modern approach to manage the impact of human activities on Canada’s oceans. In addition, they are protecting water resources via many commitments made under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. The government is eliminating the dumping of raw sewage into waterways as well as evaluating the effectiveness of people’s actions. Furthermore, they are working to ensure effective stewardship of water resources shared with the United States through the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement of 2012. On another note, the government is also helping the First Nations with their water infrastructure. The Economic Action Plan of 2012 proposed $330.8 million over two years to renovate water infrastructure on reserves and to improve water quality in First Nations communities. A Safe Drinking Water for First Nations Act was passed in February 2012 to ensure that they will have access to safe and reliable drinking water. Dianne Hoang a grade 12 student attending Windermere Secondary School.
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OIL: Continued from page 1 would violate section (a.1) of the Environmental Protection Act, which states, “the Government of Canada shall ... take preventive and remedial measures to protect, enhance and restore the environment.” This project is still in debate, but the Government of Canada should consider whether or not the economic benefit of this pipeline would outweigh the environmental risk of this project. While it does not feel like it, the federal government has encouraged people to speak out about their concerns. This has happened with many groups like the Tar Sands Solutions Network, which includes different First Nations, and environmental groups, speaking out about what they know or think about the oil industry. This comes to term with section (e) of the EPA, reading that the Canadian government shall “encourage the participation of the people of Canada in the making of decisions that affect the environment.” An inquiry held by the Federal government would allow many of these groups to speak their concerns.
The Government of Canada, through my perspective, is very secretive when it comes to the oil industry, and it takes the work of few citizens to expose the risks this creates, in regards to the environment. The Canadian Environmental Protection Act raises the standards of what should, and what should not be put into action, and the federal government’s management of the oil industry does not meet this standard. Eugene Orina is a Law 12 student at Windermere Secondary.
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April 2014
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Family tree tips for using social media COMMUNITY NEWS 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 coordinator Lisa Symons: sales and distribution coordinator Julie Cheng: editorial coordinator Contributors: Crecien Bencio, Cari Chan, Julie Cheng, Robert F. Edwards, James Gonzalo, Peter Greenwell, Dianne Hoang, Loretta Houben, Eugene Orina, Cheryl Palidda, Paul Reid, Kathy Romses, Susan Wong
We want to hear from you! 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 submission guarantee publication. We reserve the right to make editorial changes.
Next submission deadline: Apr. 10 The Renfrew/Collingwood Community News is an initiative of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH).
Yo 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.
Contact the RCCNews Phone: 604-435-0323 extension 261 Fax: 604-451-1191 Editorial: rccnews-editorial@cnh.bc.ca Advertising: Phone Lisa Symons at 604.435.0323 email: rccnews-sales@cnh.bc.ca Renfrew/Collingwood Community News Collingwood Neighbourhood House 5288 Joyce Street Vancouver, BC V5R 6C9
by Loretta Houben
Many of us use social media for daily contact with family and friends. But did you know that it’s also a great way to find long lost members of your family, including cousins, aunts and uncles? Facebook is a fantastic tool for discovering clues to the past, besides the joy of “new” family acquaintances! I joined Facebook in 2007 but didn’t really begin to use it until 2010. Then a few years later I discovered a vast network within its system, which, if used correctly, should net you some good results. To begin with, you need to set up an account. Go to Facebook.com and sign up. You will need to provide an email address, password and your birth date. Once you have an account, the fun begins by collecting friends. Enter the names of people you know in the search bar at the top of your Facebook account. In 2012 I connected with 11 relatives whom I’d lost track of. Since then I’ve met four in person, and have shared some old family photos and exchanged family tree tidbits. This is one of the phenomenal perks of social media.
Loretta Houben’s great uncle’s medal index card. His name was William Williams. It shows the date he entered into WWI in the bottom left corner, which is a date none of Loretta’s family knew up until we got this copy. group by clicking on the message box at the top of the page, and inquiring about my great uncle by giving him details of his death and rank number. Amazingly, the owner replied with a copy of my great uncle’s medal index card, which gave me a new piece of information; the date my great uncle enlisted in WWI! Of course he was able to do this because he works in the Welsh Fusiliers museum and has access to all the digital records, but I didn’t realize this when I queried him.
to begin with. It’s easy to join once you find a group that interests you. Click the “like” button and make sure you also click the “follow” button so the group’s posts show up in your home feed page. Sometimes there is a “request to join” button. In no time you will be on your way to learning from others who have the same interests and who are willing to share their knowledge with you. I can assure you there is nothing quite like the thrill of connecting via social media.
You may not have anything specific to look for at first but you can try entering “Welsh Genealogy” or whatever part of the world your ancestors are from, as a broad base
Loretta Houben is a long-time resident of the Collingwood area and enjoys poking around on Facebook in her spare time, always on the lookout for new family clues.
“It’s really quite thrilling to find clues like this from the past online, and through Facebook of all things!”
Due to privacy concerns it’s a good thing to limit photos on Facebook so that only your family can view them. To do this, simply click on the edit icon on each photo and change to family members, or set up an album for family members only. I have created a group called “Williams Family Genealogy” and have only invited family members to it so all photos shared are between relatives. The search bar is also a handy device to track down specific groups. I’m still on the lookout for further clues to one of my Welsh great uncles who died in the First World War. Recently I typed “Royal Welsh Fusiliers” (the military rank my great uncle belonged to) into the Facebook search bar, and to my delight I found a really neat group called “Royal Welsh Fusiliers 19001919”. I contacted the owner of the
Next time, tips on sharing your history in a way to hand down to succeeding generations will be shared, including making a memory box.
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Vancouver Police Department Crime Alert The Vancouver Police Department has noticed an increase in theft from auto crimes in the Collingwood neighbourhood.
EYE CARE CENTRE
The hot spot area is within the boundary of Wellington Street - north, Euclid Avenue - south, Joyce Street - west and Hoy Street - east. • The thefts are occurring between 11:00 pm and 8:00 am. • Vehicles on the street are being targeted. • Any visibles of value are being stolen.
CRIME PATTERN MAP The Vancouver Police Department is asking for your assistance: • Please secure your parked or unattended vehicle and remove all spare change, valuables, and electronic devices: GPS, cell phones, stereo faceplates, especially when parking in open lots and underground parkades. • Be alert and call 911 to report suspicious activity, including the sound of breaking glass and/ or car alarms. • Report any suspicious persons trying door handles, or loitering around and peering into vehicles. • Be a good witness and obtain suspect and/or suspect vehicle descriptions (license plates). • If you are reporting a crime which relates to a crime alert – please inform the 911 operator. • Please join or start a neighbourhood Block Watch team. Knowing your neighbours and watching out for each other is one of the best crime prevention tools available.
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Take time to visit the VPD home security website for valuable crime prevention suggestions: http://vancouver.ca/police/crime-prevention/ for-homes-rental-properties/home-security. html
Regional Homeless Count 2014 Since 2002 there have been four regional homeless counts organized in Metro Vancouver – every three years. During the count, people who are homeless are asked 21 questions about their age, gender and any medical or housing/shelter issues. The purpose is to get a snap shot of what is happening on the street to help make policy changes at both the local and senior government levels. This is a big volunteer effort involving upwards of 600 people across Metro Vancouver. This year the count took place on March 11 (in shelters) and March 12 (on the streets, drop-in centres, food line-ups, recycling depots). Our two homeless outreach workers in Renfrew-Collingwood, Mary-Anne Davidson and Chris Jamieson, were part of this volunteer corps. They hit the streets at 6:00 am and spoke with three people in our community who are living on the street because they could not find suitable housing or shelter services. Overall count results will be reported in June. Photo by Rob Hamilton
Graham Bruce Elementary Excellence in Education
dynamic programs for K-7 students 3633 tanner st. Vancouver 604-713-4778
bruce.vsb.bc.ca
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
April 2014
Closing Starbucks donates proceeds of their last day to Collingwood Neighbourhood House homeless programs After 20 years serving coffee to local residents, the Starbucks at Tyne and Kingsway closed for good February 24. Starbucks invited the Collingwood Neighbourhood House Homeless Program to set up an information table; all coffee and food sales were by donation and at the end of the day almost $1,500 was donated to support the Morning Start Breakfast program. Money raised will be used to upgrade the CNH kitchen with much-needed small appliances. Thank you to Ruby, manager, and Juan, assistant manager at Starbucks and to all who donated. —Peter Greenwell, Coordinator, Homeless Programs at Collingwood Neighbourhood House
Renfrew / Collingwood
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Collingwood Insurance Ph: 604.438.9888
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London Square Dental Centre #220 3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.435.4545
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5750 Tyne Street
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2066 Kingsway
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116 - 2800 E 1st Ave.
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1st Avenue Dental Group Ph: 604.254.5040
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Renfrew Park Community Centre 2929 E22nd. Ave. Ph: 604.257.8388
Joyce Hair Design Ph: 604.451.7680
5156 Joyce St.
Papa John’s Pizza Ph: 604.310.PAPA
#300-3340 Kingsway
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Renfrew Park Community Centre
Collingwood Days, Saturday, May 24 This year, Collingwood Days celebrations kick off on Saturday, May 24 with an Arts & Performance on Kingsway. Following that is a fun-filled week which will include an Art Crawl, an exotic Spice Roads Teahouse night of music and a family movie night at Carleton culminating in the main events on Saturday, May 31. For further information please see www.collingwooddays.com! Collingwood Days 2014 - Call to Participate People wishing to sell food or goods on Saturday, May 31 at Collingwood main events, from 11:00 – 4:00pm at Sir Guy Carlton Elementary School are encouraged to apply for the International Marketplace and Food Vendors. The price has remained the same $40 per booth. For more information to go www.collingwooddays.com or www. shopcollingwood.ca . Collingwood Days Art Crawl Sunday, May 25, 2014 Come and join us for art and refreshments! Starting 11:00 am and running to 3:00 pm, artists in our neighbourhood are opening up their studios to the public to give us a peek at their work. There is a diverse selection of artists and artisans, from painters, carvers, weavers, student art, community-led art and much more. Some of the artists showing their work will be Suzo Hickey, Jolene Andrews, Dante Comoglio, Yoko Tomita, and the Athena Arts students of Windermere Secondary, who will be presenting six installation pieces. There will be some community spaces open for exhibition. You will be able to check out the Slocan Field House, Collingwood Neighbourhood House and the Italian Cultural Centre that day to view the artist’s work. Please check out the website www. collingwooddays.com and Facebook page at Collingwood Days to check our schedule and map of locations. Seniors can book a seat on the community van at andreaberneckas@shaw. ca. Please book soon as seating is limited.
Still Creek Stories Story Collecting Tea
Sunday April 6, 1:00-4:00 pm Renfrew Branch Library 2969 East 22nd Avenue Do you have memories, stories, and photos of Still Creek and Renfrew Ravine? We’d like to hear and see them! We have English and Mandarin speaking story collectors. • What is the most amazing thing you have found or seen in the ravine? • Did old-timers tell you stories about the creek and the ravine? • Did the creek once run through your back yard? • Have you helped with ravine clean ups and stream restoration projects? • Have you seen Salmon in the creek?
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Sing Me a Song: New community music program from the Lieutenant Governor Can you write a catchy tune? Know someone who could? The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, is pleased to present a new program to promote music and community spirit across the province. “Sing Me A Song” is an opportunity for musical groups of all ages and genres to write and sing an original song in the lead up to Canada’s 150th birthday celebrations in 2017. Groups are encouraged to write a song about what Canada’s 150th Birthday means to them or their community. Each entry will be reviewed by a panel of musicians from around the province and an award of $1,000 will be granted annually in each of three age categories. Entries will be posted on the Lieutenant Governor’s website and YouTube channel to be viewed by all British Columbians. Whether it is a school or community choir or other amateur musical group, all submissions must have a minimum of 15 voices and musical accompaniment is welcome. Each song must be original content, no longer than five minutes in length, and be based on the Canada 150 themes. For younger age groups adults may assist in the creation of the musical content. Musicality, spirit, and originality are highly encouraged. Songs for the 2014 competition must be submitted by May 7, 2014. Find more information at http://www. ltgov.bc.ca/lg/priority-programs/song /default.html
Green Thumb Theatre announces 2014/15 season Green Thumb Theatre’s new season is full of creative, entertaining and thought-provoking shows for children, youth and young adults. Elementary Season This fall sees a remount of one of Green Thumb’s most beloved plays, Showdown, by Jamie Norris. Showdown is a play about acceptance, friendship and the pressure kids can face from parental expectations. In the spring of 2015 Green Thumb tours BC and Ontario with their elementary show Celestial Being, by Dave Deveau. Celestial Being is the story of a girl with a whole world of imagination inside her head but has a hard time connecting to people outside of it. Secondary Season Fall 2014 is the premiere Still/Falling, the work of up-and-coming Vancouver playwright, Rachel Aberle. With humour and compassion, Still/Falling tells the story of Nina, a bright, witty teenager who struggles with anxiety and depression. The smash hit tagged (by Dave Deveau), with its powerful themes of online responsibility and the consequences of cyber bullying, hits the road again in spring 2015. tagged will tour BC, and will also be appearing at a number of amazing venues across Canada. Moss Park (by George F. Walker) will be coming back to the stage in 2015; stay tuned for the announcement about where you can catch a performance of this great new Canadian play.
2929 East 22 Avenue at Renfrew Phone 604.257.8388 Web page: www.renfrewcc.com Pre-registration required for all programs. Sat. Apr 12 Help Grow The Urban Forest! All Ages Register to join the Tree Keepers and receive a discounted tree of your own. Register soon as supplies are limited. Trees for the Renfrew-Collingwood area must be picked up by registered participants at the Slocan Field House. Register: http:// treekeepers.ca Location: Slocan Field House (2750 East 29th Ave) 10:00am-11:00am Free Thru. Apr 24 Umbrella Workshop 55+yrs. 52108.201RF I think anyone would enjoy a hand decorated umbrella. It is easy and fun to create your own umbrella to keep or to give as a gift. 1:00-3:00pm $6/person Fri. Apr 4 BC Transit Compass Information 55+yrs 55804.203RF 11:00am-12:00pm Free Fri. Apr 11 Residential Tenancy Workshop 55404.201RF BC CEAS 55+yrs 11:00am-12:00pm Free Fri. Apr 25 Hearing Information 54803.201RF Susan Marynewich 55+yrs 11:00am-12:00pm Free Fri. May 2 Better at Home Presentation 55+yrs 54911.202RF 11:00am-12:00pm Free Fri. May 9 Sing-a-long with West Coast Singers 55+yrs 51204.214RF 11:00am-12:00pm Free Fri. May 23 Lightening the Load Tracy Leroux 55+yrs 54811.209RF Please pre-register for this workshop. Free 11:00am-12:00pm Fri. May 30 Sea to Sky Gondola 55+yrs 55701.202RF 10:00am-4:30pm $119/person Fri. May 30 Crafty Fashions 55+yrs 52010.210RF 11:00am-12:00pm Free
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Coming full circle at Nootka Elementary
by Susan Wong
Join the celebration: Nootka’s 50th Golden Anniversary, Saturday, May 3 The Nootka Rose, a rare native plant, can be found at RenfrewCollingwood’s Still Creek just a few steps from the busy bustling sounds of Grandview Highway. A few blocks south you will also find another treasure in our community, Nootka Elementary. This year Nootka will celebrate its 50th Golden Anniversary. Nootka is a small but vibrant school located on Renfrew and 17th Avenue, just north of the soft trees and tranquil ravine of the Renfrew Park Community Centre. Originally known as Lord Beaconsfield Annex in 1959, the school expanded and became Nootka Elementary a few years later. Today the school is comprised of almost 500 students. Nootka is unique in that it holds three programs in one school: Thrive for students with special needs, the classic and the fine arts, programs that have attracted many families in the immediate area and from all corners of the city. Student from first graduation class gives back With over 50 years of history, Nootka’s evolution has truly come full circle. Former student Randy Schisler was one of the original students of the first grade 7 graduation class in 1966. Randy is not only a Nootka alumni but also currently a dedicated volunteer for
the school’s One to One literacy program! Most Wednesday and Thursday mornings you will find Randy in the school’s library reading books with the students. Randy, currently retired, picked Nootka as his first choice to spend his invaluable volunteer hours. How lucky for those at Nootka to have such a wonderful and caring volunteer and with such a real connection to Nootka’s history and the Renfrew-Collingwood community where he grew up. As Randy takes a stroll down the halls of his childhood school, he arrives at the entrance of the teachers’ staff room which was the original part of Lord Beaconsfield Annex. He looks at the staffroom door and chuckles, “You see this room, I will never go in, even now. It’s totally off limits and I don’t care how old I am!” Lord Beaconsfield Annex originally only taught grades 1 to 3. The school only consisted of the east-facing side of the school that runs along Nootka. The north (Left to right) Glenn Dennis and Randy Schisler, two students from the first graduating class of 1966, remember the good ol’ days at Nootka wing wasn’t added until 1963/64, which is when it became Nootka Elementary. Photos courtesy of Susan Wong Elementary. During the years Although a relatively “young” School to new generations while the addition was being built, students had to temporarily branch And speaking of coming full circle, school Nootka is rich in history and culture. A visually enticing mural off to other schools in the area such Glenn Dennis, also a former welcomes you as you approach the classmate of Randy’s, is now as Lord Beaconsfield, Renfrew school’s front entrance. The multiresiding in Renfrew-Collingwood and Graham Bruce. Not until coloured mural was a collaboration where his daughter Jessica is also approximately 1999 was the south of the Nootka’s Fine Arts students student at Nootka! Like Randy, wing finally completed. with Langara College. Inside, Glenn is a student from the located to the right of the main graduating class of 1966. Glenn entrance are the original display sentimentally points out how his cases, which proudly showcase first classroom was also the same many of the students’ wonderful room Jessica began her journey at Nootka. It is the furthest classroom creations. Above the display cases at the south end of the hallway just you will find the Nootka War Canoe originally hand carved in 1966 by down from the office.
Nootka School officially opened by guest of honour Mr. J.R. Atkinson. December 6, 1963
Lord Beaconsfield Annex before it expanded and became Nootka Elementary.
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Glenn Dennis, one of two classes graduating in 1966 (second row, 4th from the left)
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Randy Schisler’s grade one picture 1959/1960, bottom row, centre
Mr. Krisky, a parent of one of the students graduating in 1966. The graduating class presented it at the graduation ceremony as a gift to the school and to honour the area’s native heritage. As Randy and Glenn go over the many old school photos of fellow classmates and adored teachers, a rush of memories come back and for a second it really felt like it was just yesterday. Nostalgia was high as names, dates and events are reminisced and maybe even missed. And as life should have it, there were probably ups and downs but it seems like only the good memories resonated in the two gentlemen minds. All in all, sounds like they had lots of fun. And just like the good ol’ days, there’s always something fun and interesting happening at Nootka. The school’s events are beautifully coordinated and planned. Parents, teachers, students and even secondary school volunteers all collaborate together to ensure a wonderful and successful experience for all. Last year Nootka held their first Earth Day, where the all the students spent a full day in workshops and activities learning about sustainability and Mother Earth. In the fall and winter, the Fine Arts students display their wonderful creations at the Children’s Art Exhibition held at the Vandusen Botanical Garden. And to welcome the Lunar
The Nootka War Canoe was hand carved in 1966 by Mr. Krisky, a parent of one of the students graduating in 1966, as a gift to the school.
New Year a Lion Dance Celebration is held annually to wish Nootka a happy and healthy new year! Join the celebration! So as the students, teachers, parent advisory committee and families of Nootka Elementary roll up their sleeves again to plan and carry out their Spring Carnival, we invite you, your friends and family members to come join us Saturday, May 3, from 12:00 to 3:00 pm at our beloved school, 3375 Nootka Street near Renfrew Street. Come celebrate and commemorate our 50th Golden Anniversary together. It will no doubt be fun, eventful, lively, creative, rich in history and all about community.
Nootka’s mural, front of school
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
April 2014
Read On!
A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners
Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Read On!
has a web page. You can:
Read the articles
Hot cross buns are traditionally eaten on the Friday before Easter (this year April 18). Why not try making your own with this easy recipe? Because this recipe uses premade dough, it is easy for anyone, even if you don’t have baking experience.
Print worksheets http://renfrew collingwood community news.com/ category/read-on/
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated rolls (like Pillsbury refrigerated crescent dinner rolls) 1/3 cup raisins or other dried fruit 1/4 teaspoon grated lemon peel 1/4 cup powdered sugar 1 to 2 teaspoons milk
Reading levels on this page Level 1
To make the buns: Step 1: Heat the oven to 375 degrees F. Unroll dough and separate into 8 triangles. Step 2: Mix the raisins and lemon peel in small bowl. Spoon a small amount of mix onto each of the triangles. Fold corners together and pinch to seal. Put buns on a cookie sheet with fold side down. Step 3: Bake 12-14 minutes until golden colour. Step 4: In a small bowl mix sugar and milk together. After the buns have baked and cooled, drip the sugar mix over the buns in a cross shape. Step 5: Eat and enjoy! (recipe adapted from Pillsbury.com)
Reader Submission: On Life
Thank you to Read On reader Buddhaheart for sending in this poem. Life Life Life Life Life Life
is is is is is is
sweet fine like a bottle of wine; bitter sour like a bottle of vinegar.
Do you have a story or poem to share? Send it to rccnews-editorial@cnh.bc.ca
Tax Help
Tax returns are due (need to be finished and sent in) by April 30th. For many people taxes can be confusing and difficult to complete. Luckily, there is help. Tax clinics around the city help low-income people file their taxes for free. The tax clinic at Collingwood Neighbourhood House goes from runs until May 3rd. It is open Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 to 9:00 pm and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. It is a good idea to make an appointment since there are limited spaces. You can make an appointment by calling 604-435-0323 or just stop in and talk to someone at the front desk. There are volunteers at the clinic who speak English, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Shanghainese, Hokkien, Hindi and Tagalog.
Level 2
Level 3
Clive Mak, pictured here (fourth from left) with some of the Selmak Realty ‘family’. Clive Mak, Office Manager, and co-founder of Selmak Realty Ltd., started the company, along with his long time partners (Mom and Dad) in June of 2012. Not only was Clive looking to start a business that could capitalize on his parents’ long-time experience in Real Estate (over 25 years a piece), Clive saw a need for a new kind of Real Estate Agency – one that knocked down the barriers for realtors, especially young ones, to enter the industry. “I researched the industry and found that it really is an aging one, due to fewer youngsters and new realtors surviving the first few years. One of the main barriers new realtors are facing was the high monthly fees that their brokerages were charging – in the $450 to over $1000 range. For a new realtor who may not have much of a network developed, with not much sales in the beginning, this can be a lot of money.” What Clive and his parents have done with Selmak Realty Ltd. is to reduce these fees dramatically, to about one tenth of their competitors! As a result, in just one and half years, Selmak has over one hundred realtors. “Many of them have known my parents and each other for many years says Clive. It’s like one big family.” In addition to extensive and ongoing training by Selmak Realty’s experienced Managing Broker, Selmak Realty ensures that each of their agents is in good standing with the Real Estate Council and Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver and that they adhere to the strict code of ethics as defined by the Canadian Real Estate Association. “We work closely with our agents as they guide their clients step by step through
CBIA UPDATES Collingwood Jr. BIA Spring Event Collingwood Earth Walk and Sidewalk Sale – April 26, 2014 11:00am – 1:00 pm Come out and join us in celebration of Earth Week with an Earth Walk and Sidewalk Sale. Businesses along Kingsway will have sale items and samples available between 11am and 1pm. There will be an activity tent located at the Collingwood Clock Tower Square (corner of Joyce and Kingsway). There will be draw for some great prizes. There will also be activity tables located throughout the Collingwood businesses. For more information you can email juniorbiacollingwoood@gmail.com. Drop by the Clock Tower first to pick up entry forms before you start the Earth Walk and Sidewalk Sale.
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Collingwood Days has been set for Saturday, May 31st 2014 from 11:00am – 4:00pm. Go to the website www.collingwooddays.com for vendor applications
all the legal complexities of a transaction.” In addition to continual training and support, Selmak provides its agents with conference rooms and equipped work space. They also handle all of the extensive paper work, which as office manager, Clive works to ensure gets handled properly. “We encourage our agents to use technology, like email and fax (still used for legal documents) to send in their paperwork without needing to visit the office. That way they can concentrate on working with their clients. We also help our agents to compose each contract, as each every transaction is unique, requiring specialized contracts. Clive came over from Asia with his parents in 1988. He was educated in Canada since elementary school. His hobby is building and fixing computers and watching movies. Is now a good time to buy in Vancouver? “Anytime can be a good time to buy in Vancouver says Clive. He doesn’t believe there will be a big drop in prices as some have speculated, at least not in Vancouver. “With Vancouver’s advantage of weather and location the population is set to increase,” says Clive, “and if it’s one thing that everyone needs, whether to rent or buy, is a place to live. Also, with an aging population, there are a lot of retirees selling their houses so that they can move into condos for their relative affordability and low maintenance. Whether renting or buying, this is true for the younger generation as well.” And who are we going to list with? Selmak Realty of course. and sponsor information. Let’s showcase Collingwood business, artists and entrepreneurs! We are looking for community organizations, sports clubs, service clubs, dance groups to be a part of Collingwood Days. This year will be the 11th annual event, the theme is The Dog Days of Collingwood. See the ad in this issue for more information. Look for the two page pull out in next months issue of the Collingwood Renfrew Community Newspaper. 2nd Collingwood International Film Festival – 2014 Collingwood International Film Festival Schedule. To kick off Collingwood Days the first movie will be: o May 30 – Carleton Elementary School Gym – Hachi A Dog’s Tale Other dates: o June 20 – Gaston Park – Spain o June 27 – Colllingwood Park – Bollywood o July 4 - Gaston Park – Philippines o July 11 – Aberdeen Park – China
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Contact us on Facebook for contests and current news from the BIA and our members. www.facebook.com/shopcollingwoodvancouver
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*This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Business Improvement Association
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April 2014
The Seniors Connection
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Helping seniors live well in Renfrew-Collingwood
Renfrew Park Community Centre celebrates St. Patrick’s Day
More than 90 children, parents and seniors celebrated St. Patrick’s Day at a special luncheon at Renfrew Park Community Centre on March 12. Everyone enjoyed the Irish dancing done by Eire Born from Nora Pickett Dance Academy; these dancers were five to 14 years old. Photos courtesy of RPCC
Music in the spring at Collingwood Neighbourhood House
by Crecien Bencio
Last month the Senior Wellness Group at Collingwood Neighbourhood House concluded part two of their legal workshop series with Stephen Miller, of Stephen M. Miller Law Corporation, and hosted an engaging workshop on Diversity & Communication with Lindz Marsh from AMSSA (Affiliation of Multicultural Societies and Services Agencies of BC). The group also had an educational workshop on Marine Life Biology with Lund Milton, veteran volunteer at the Vancouver Aquarium and seniors shuttle driver for the Renfrew-Collingwood Visit michaelaverill.com for more information. Photo by Nikoleta D Better at Home Program. This April, CNH will be in a singing and dancing mood! On Monday, April 14 at 1:15 pm Collingwood Neighbourhood House is excited to be hosting Michael Averill, a folk artist and performer from Kelowna, B.C.. His current album I’d Rather Walk features classic folk and blues music and is a tribute to his late singer/songwriter father, Garry Averill. Through his music, Michael Averill encourages people to share their own stories and have open conversations about life, loss, family and music. Everyone is welcomed to bring their own musical instrument and dancing shoes. Admission is by donation and coffee and snacks will be served.
The Senior Wellness Group meets every Monday from 1:15 to 3:00 pm. On Monday, April 7, there will be birthday celebrations and bingo and, on Monday, April 28, there will be a games day with fun activities for everyone. You’re invited to bring your favourite games. Please note on Easter Monday, April 21, CNH will be closed. Everyone is welcome to join the Senior Wellness Group and admission is by donation. For more information on seniors programs, contact Kat Cureton, Seniors Program Coordinator at 604-435-0323 ext 227.
Renfrew Collingwood Better at Home is currently seeking experienced housekeepers who speak Cantonese. Please phone 604-435-0375 for more information.
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Make cooking a family affair
Your kitchen doubles as a classroom that equips kids with life skills galore compiled by Kathy Romses, MA Cooking with kids is a great way to teach important life skills. Learning to cook now prepares them to cook for themselves when they grow up. It’s also a fun hands-on activity that teaches literacy, science and math. It doesn’t have to be complicated—start simply and build skills. Younger kids can help measure ingredients and stir. Older kids can help peel and chop vegetables. Once they’re confident, they can help bake, broil or sauté. It might be messy. That’s okay! Your kids can also help clean up. Find weekdays too hectic to cook with kids? Cooking with kids can take a little more time, but it’s worth it! Learning how to cook helps kids develop healthy eating habits, increases selfconfidence and teaches life skills. Here are a few tips to keep cooking with kids relaxed: • Give kids easy tasks, such as stirring, when you’re in a hurry • Cook on weekends, when you can take more time to teach skills • Choose easy-to-follow recipes with lots of tasks kids can help with • Prepare some ingredients before you start cooking Bring a little fun to your kitchen with a family cooking challenge. Cooking together is a great way to connect with your family, especially when there’s a friendly competition involved! Have fun with this challenge. Do it over a weekend or a month.
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April 2014
Here’s how: • Choose a cookbook, food magazine or website. Each family member picks one recipe to try. • Each person makes his or her recipe for the family. Depending on skill level, kids might need a little help. • When all dishes have been tasted, rate the recipes. You might discover a new family favourite! Visit www.cookspiration.com or www. bettertogetherbc.ca for kid-friendly recipe ideas.
Yogurt Rainbow Parfait Vanilla or strawberry yogurt Unsalted sunflower and pumpkin seeds (raw or roasted) Dried cranberries and raisins Granola Layer your parfait as follows: Granola—yogurt—dried cranberries—sunflower seeds—yogurt—raisins—pumpkin seeds Every spoonful will be a unique mixture of flavours! Try using plain yogurt and fresh fruit. If you don’t like the tart flavour, add a spoonful of honey.
Source: www.bettertogetherbc.ca Use eaTracker to check your food and activity choices, analyze your recipes and plan your meals. Sign up at www.eatracker.ca to set goals and track your progress. Kathy Romses is a public health dietitian at the Evergreen Community Health Centre.
Become a TreeKeeper! 2014 tree distribution is now underway If you care about the environment, or just like trees, you’re invited to join the TreeKeepers program. Get a fantastic tree at discount and help grow the urban forest that makes Vancouver a global wonder. All residents and commercial property owners in Vancouver are eligible to buy a tree and become a part of the program. (Apologies to folks beyond our city limits, but you’re still welcome to use any information or inspiration you get from this website for free.) All trees for spring 2014 distribution cost only $10. Supply is limited so order yours today! Note that trees distributed through the program will be monitored in the future for health and recorded in a database by volunteer Citizen Photo Source: treekeepers.ca Foresters. If you’d like to become a Citizen Forester email info@treekeepers.ca. See more at www.treekeepers.ca/how-the-treekeeper-program-works
The following is a paid advertisement by Adrian Dix, MLA for Vancouver/Kingsway 8th Annual Senior’s Health and Wellness Fair a success! I would like to thank everyone for participating in our Seniors Wellness Fair at Renfrew Park Community Centre. Special thanks to Cheryl Palidda for her fabulous organization. This was the 8th annual fair, and attendance was spectacular, as usual. With over 600 seniors attending, the day was a complete success. We had a hearing clinic on top of an absolute wealth of information from all of our presenters, and great food at lunch. I would like to thank our fantastic volunteers from the Filipino-Canadian New Era Society, Gabriel Yiu for translation, Renfrew Park Community Centre and Cheryl Palidda, our sponsors, and all of our performers who have taken time out of their busy schedules to help make this day a great success. While the fair is always fun, preventative health and wellness is very important to healthy bodies and minds, and a healthy society. I am proud to have been able to once again provide a venue to share such critical information with the community. We look forward to seeing you all at Seniors Wellness Fair 2015. Apply Now for a Neighbourhood Small Grant! Want to be a part of expanding our community? I am pleased to have the opportunity to share information about our own Collingwood program to increase the amount of diverse, community events happening in our community. Through the Neighbourhood Small Grants Program, any resident can apply for and receive $50-$500 of funding to host a community event! This funding can be put towards block parties, community gardens, roadside planters, a neighborhood street hockey tournament, cooking classes, mural painting supplies, or anything other ideas you have to brighten up our community! Apply online at http://www.collingwood-southvannsgp.comor or pick up a form at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce St. (the corner of Joyce and Euclid). Housing Troubles? Our office has resources for both landlords and tenants on your rights and responsibilities, available in both English and Chinese text. Please stop by and pick one up. If you’re looking for housing or have recently undergone a difficult transition between residencies, please share your story with us. Free Public Access Computer A reminder to those seeking computer access for social assistance applications, BC Housing files, resume creation or housing and job searches: I have set up a public computer in my constituency office with quick links to Ministry websites, government services, and community resources. All constituents are welcome to drop by during our office hours (Monday, from 12pm to 7pm, Tuesday to Thursday from 9am to 4pm, and on Friday by appointment). My Constituency Assistants are happy to help with any difficulty.
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April 2014
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Collingwood Neighbourhood House
HIGHLIG H TS
Get creative at Collingwood
Arts & Crafts cultivate creativity and smiles If you pass through Collingwood Neighbourhood House on a Saturday afternoon and you see a crowd of laughing children waving around colourful mini masterpieces, you can be certain those works of art were created in the Children’s Arts and Crafts program. The program attracts a variety of children between the ages of 5 and 9 and runs from 10:00-12:00pm. Art supplies are included in the cost of the program and provided for children to use; they include paint, recycled materials, drawing and craft supplies. Techniques learned in the class include casting, collage-making, drawing, painting and composition. The first thing I notice about Sonia, the charismatic childcare worker who runs the Arts and Crafts program, is the passion and dedication she shows towards her work. Sonia has been at Collingwood Neighbourhood House for 15 years, she says that she runs the program in a way that encourages free expression, “I encourage the children to move things around and use their imagination, I tell them that no design is wrong and that they should be proud of what they create.” Sonia mentions that the 5 to 9 age range helps keep things balanced because it creates an opportunity for all of the children to learn new skills. The bright and spacious classroom where the program is held boasts colourful paintings and lanterns made by the children. Within minutes of walking into the room, it becomes clear that
Collingwood Neighbourhood House invites you to lunch every Tuesday and Thursday. Please note that seniors are served at 12 noon; others are served at 12:10 pm. 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.”
April menu 2014 Tues 01 Carrot soup, lamb or vegetable phyllo cigars, salad, coconut muffin Thurs 03 Chicken breast with pumpkin seed filling or quinoa/veggie option, salad, chocolate cookies Tues 08 Tortilla soup, turkey wraps/veggie wraps, salad, Mexican pecan cookies
everyone is having fun as the sound of laughter echoes off the walls. Inquisitive and creative spirits are at a peak as the children run over to show me the leaf stencils they’ve created. Saturday afternoons at Collingwood Neighbourhood House are a time when fun and creativity thrive, especially in the Children’s Arts and Crafts program.
Drop-in Volleyball heats up this Spring Want to start practicing your beach volleyball skills in an indoor, full-court environment? Collingwood Neighborhood House offers drop-in adult volleyball for men and women on Monday and Wednesday evenings. The program attracts a range of players from all skill levels and encourages sportsmanship in a welcoming setting. Beginner and intermediate players are encouraged to come down on Wednesday evenings, while advanced and seasoned players can sharpen their skills on Monday nights. Drop-in volleyball serves as the perfect environment to learn new skills, It is also the perfect setting for junior teams to come down and prepare for upcoming tournaments. If that’s not enough incentive, here are some other reasons you should check it out:
COMMUNITY LUNCH
Thurs 10 Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes/gravy, salad, pumpkin cupcake Tues 15 Leek & potato soup, egg sandwich, salad, cranberry cheesecake bar Thurs 17 Baked sole fish with caper sauce on rice, salad, vanilla cake Tues 22 Creamy butternut squash soup, roasted beef sandwich/roasted vegetable, salad, lime shortbread cookies Thurs 24 Madras curry prawns in creamy sauce with pasta, salad, cream cheese brownie
is a terrific way to make friends and meet new people with similar interests.
Location: Collingwood is transit-friendly and is located right by Joyce-Collingwood skytrain station. The courts are spacious and bright and the staff will always welcome you with big smiles.
Affordable: The drop-in program cost is $4.50 and you can drop-in at your convenience. This makes dropping in convenient and affordable. Plus, if you purchase a 12 class drop-in pass for $48.50, each drop-in class works out to be $4.04.
People: Come and get to know your neighbour! Renfrew-Collingwood is an eclectic and diverse neighbourhood and the drop-in volleyball program
Health: Did you know that most volleyball players jump approximately 300 times in a match? Volleyball is a great workout and with summer just around the corner the drop-in
This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House
Tues 29 Black bean soup, chicken & veggie panini, salad, yogurt parfait with fruit
program provides a great setting to get fit, improve your hand-eye coordination and learn how to play the second most popular sport in the world. Beginner/Intermediate Drop-in Volleyball: Wednesdays from 8:30-10:15pm Advanced Drop-in Volleyball: Mondays from 8:3010:15pm
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April 2014
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
What’s happening at your local library
Adult Programs
Renfrew Branch Library Collingwood Branch Library
Adult ESL Book Club Tuesday, April 15, 7:00-8:30 pm
2969 East 22nd Avenue at Nootka
2985 Kingsway at Rupert
Man in the Moon
Enjoy practising your English conversation and reading skills in a supportive environment while learning about culture and meeting new people. This program is most suitable for intermediate speakers. Registration is required. To register please contact the Collingwood Branch at 604-665-3953.
Children’s Programs
Saturdays, April 12 to May 31 3:30-4:30pm Renfrew Branch library
Saturday Family Board Games Every Saturday all day. All the best board games and puzzles for the whole family. Everyone can join in the fun! Free! Drop-in.
Starting in April for 8 weeks, Renfrew Branch library will have a weekly storytime for dads and other male caregivers.
Resources to learn English @ Your Library There are books, spoken CDs, DVDs for beginner, intermediate and advanced learners. Easy fiction books to read or listen to, or to master your grammar and vocabulary? We have them all! If you prefer learning online, you will find what you need and more with the following databases available for free from our website (www.vpl.ca):
Family Storytime Thursday mornings, April 3–May 8, 10:3011:00. Stories, rhymes and songs for the whole family
Man in the Moon is a unique early literacy program for dads, uncles, step dads, foster dads, granddads, and all male caregivers with babies who are newborns to 18 months. Language play through songs, rhymes, and stories for very young children and the men who love them.
Babytime Thursday mornings, April 3–May 8, 11:3012:00. Songs, rhymes, lap play and books for baby
For more information or to register please contact the Renfrew Branch Library at 604-257-8705.
PowerSpeak languages: Learn a language at your own pace with one of Powerspeak’s online language courses. Courses are offered in the following popular languages: French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish, as well as ESL for Mandarin or Spanish Speakers.
Literacy tip of the month: Experts agree that reading aloud with children at home, 15 to 30 minutes a day, is the best way to ensure your child’s reading success. For a list of great books to share with your children, pick up a copy of Vancouver Public Library’s brand new pamphlet: Read Aloud Favourites.
Man in the Moon is presented by Vancouver Public Library in partnership with the Vancouver Public Library Foundation.
Learning Express Library: Skill building for all levels from Grade 4 Elementary to Adult. Covers many standard courses, basic education, and general subjects: math, reading, writing, vocabulary, computer skills, and more. Some material is available in Spanish. Practice tests are available for GED, TOEFL, TOIC, and for exams such as firefighter, civil service, citizenship, real estate, and more.
For our full listing of programs check out our website or drop by and pick up a brochure. GST included. Registration has now started. Register early so you don’t miss out.
@ Renfrew Pool
1:00-3:00pm · Easter themed swim activities · Prizes · Pool Games for the whole family Free With Regular Admission
Preschool Open House
Tuesday, April 22nd 4-8pm
Preschool Registration
Friday, May 2nd
This is the time to come check out our preschool facilities and speak to our ECE certified teachers. Bring your child and your questions. Activities will be set up for children.
Forms will be handed out on the day of registration at 6:00am. If you have been accepted into the class, an appointment will be issued to you to return for the orientation, payments and completed forms.
3:00-5:00pm · Giant Wibit Inflatable Pool Toy! Free With Regular Admission
Creative Ballet 1 (3yrs)
Easter Eggstavaganza
Taekwondo
@ Renfrew Centre
walking-10yrs Rain or Shine! There will be face painting, crafts and our famous Egg Hunt. Children less than 7yrs must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Tickets are limited. Easter Egg Hunt times available are 1:00pm, 1:30pm, 2:00pm, 2:30pm Sa 12:00pm-3:00pm Apr 19 25606.2**RF $5/child
Tue
2:30-3:00pm
Apr 8-Jun 17
Celeste Lyon $46.75/11 sess
Northshore Taekwondo Designed to inspire personal excellence through physical fitness, self defense and mind-body control. Note: extra fees are payable to the instructor for uniform and testing. Special: FREE Taekwondo Uniforms for students who register for Spring season. Contact instructor for more information. Little Ninja Beginners (5-7yrs) Tue Thu 3:30-4:20pm Apr 8-Jun 19 $231/22 sess Youth Beginners (7-14yrs) Tue Thu 4:30-5:20pm Apr 8-Jun 19 $231/22 sess
Youth Organized Volunteer Opportunities (YOVO) (13-18yrs) Suzy Parker
Mandarin Lessons (19+yrs)
Basics of Conversation Thu 7:00-8:30pm Basics of Food Thu 7:00-8:30pm Basics of Traveling Thu 7:00-8:30pm
Book Club (55+yrs) Tue
12:30-2:00pm
1:00-3:00pm
$36/2 sess
May 8-15
$36/2 sess
May 29-Jun 5
$36/2 sess
Apr 15
$3/season
Apr 25
Apple Blossom Luncheon (55+yrs) Wed
12:00-2:30pm
Apr 9
Britannia Mine Museum Tour (55+yrs) Tue
9am-4:30pm
Daisy Meng
Apr 17-24
Hearing Clinic Screening (55+yrs) Fri
Apr 29
Free $9/person $89/person
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
April 2014
Garbage Why do we have so much of it? by Robert F. Edwards I would like to talk about garbage. Yes, we all have it, we all try to get rid of it and thanks to our municipal taxes, it goes. But this is not the end of the subject; why do we all have so much garbage every week to be hauled out and gotten rid? That is what I would like to think about and ask you to join. I think it’s always best to start with yourself when you are on a subject at hand. So I would first like to tell you a little bit about how much garbage we have. My wife and I are both retired and we have a very simple lifestyle. We eat a lot of fresh foods rather than canned or packaged goods. I’m not looking for any accolades on lifestyle; just trying to understand why we still have so much garbage. When the garbage man comes, the black container is almost always full, yard waste is generally full except in the winter, the blue box is brimming, and not to forget the cardboard and newspaper bags.
I sincerely believe it’s in many ways that we accept garbage! It might just start by the amount of advertising sliding through our mailboxes (that we never take the time to look at) that finds its way into some form of garbage disposal. I’m saying that at some time, somewhere, in the Lower Mainland somebody has done this. There’s got to be a better way of advertising, there’s got to be a smarter way of delivering this message then contributing to garbage. I ask is there a method of advertising to offer a more advanced and better way of marketing a product? Now, about recycling. I really believe that if there’s anything worthwhile in recycling that gets thrown out every day and accumulates until the garbage day arrives, once again it is the newspapers. In one short week, some amazing articles are written in local newspapers and in all probability the larger
COLLINGWOOD
DA Y S MAY 31, 2014 & ACTIVITIES ALL WEEK MAY 24th - 31st!
F ESTIVAL! FOOD! FUN! GAMES! DOG SHOW! BMX BIKE SHOW! RIDES! MARKET PLACE! PRIZES!
newspapers as well. I commend this tradition in our society of having newspapers. I definitely need to mention the blue box itself, where the cans, bottles and plastic containers are destined for a future in some form of recycling. I often wonder if the manufacturer of these articles is not the true waste maker and in many ways the most guilty of creating garbage. Many of the products we use every day are over-packaged, adding to our waste-making society and the end use of the product is garbage. A prime example of this is the purchase of CD software, which cost hundreds of dollars, but is in actuality just a very small thin CD in multi-layers of packaging. Maybe we’re still in that Dark Age of manufacturing that believes that big container is better. How can we argue with their acceptance of producing more garbage for waste packaging? Any of these manufactures, large or small in any diversified packaging would only have to look at the fast food market and realize real competition. Who are they serving, they are serving exactly what we want and in many
Composting your biodegradable kitchen waste is a good way to reduce the amount of garbage you haul out every week. Photo by Julie Cheng ways, it ends up being garbage. In closing, I would like to know if there is merit to my thoughts. I would appreciate your support in having Collingwood start a movement to ask “why we have so much garbage” and furthermore, who is to blame? If you think this may be something that every person deserves to be heard, please let this newspaper know. Robert F. Edwards is a longtime resident of Collingwood and has written for the RenfrewCollingwood Community News for several years now.
St. Mary’s School
Nurturing the heart, mind & spirit. We provide a comprehensive education that embodies the Catholic faith.
PANCAKE BREAKFAST 9-11am (served by firefighters, by donation)
5239 JOYCE STREET • VANCOUVER • BC • V5R 4G8 MORE INFO: Collingwood BIA (604) 639-4403 info@shopcollingwood.ca
www.collingwooddays.com
www.facebook.com/collingwooddays
Register your child for kindergarten for the 2014 -2015 school year. 604 - 437-1312 • www.stmary.bc.ca • office.smarv@cisva.bc.ca
Presented by: Business Improvement Association