April 2015
COMMUNITY NEWS
RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com
Skytrain Rambler: Stop at Sperling-Burnaby Lake to see baby ducks and geese More reasons to Skytrain by Julie Cheng I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again: I love the Skytrain. With two lines (Expo and Millennium) running through it, Renfrew-Collingwood has more Skytrain stops than any other community. The Skytrain can take you downtown and on to the North Shore by Seabus, east to Burnaby or Surrey, and south to Richmond. The Skytrain saved me years ago when I was feeling isolated at home and searching for places to go with my two preschool kids. I’d pack them in the stroller and take the Skytrain to the family drop-in at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, the storytimes at the Central Branch library and onto the Seabus for a walk along the North Vancouver seawall. Today the Skytrain gives my teenage kids freedom to move around the Lower Mainland. Sadly for me but happily for them, Skytrain takes them to the shops and Red Robins on Robson Street or at Metrotown. April is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. Hop on and take a Skytrain ride to a lovely spot in Burnaby that is linked by nature to Renfrew-Collingwood. You’ll see baby ducks and geese and more! Skytrain stop: Sperling-Burnaby Lake Zone 2 on the Millenium Line; about 10 minutes from Renfrew or Rupert Station OR 30 minutes from Nanaimo, 29th Avenue or Collingwood-Joyce Station. The longer route takes you past the beautiful waterfront of Sapperton in New Westminster.
A spring-time ride to the Sperling-Burnaby Lake Skytrain station takes you to the delightful baby geese that make their home at Burnaby Lake. Photos by Julie Cheng and s and culture in Renfrew Collingwood Bryden Fergusson
From the Sperling-Burnaby Lake station, it’s an easy 10-minute walk to Burnaby Lake and its lovely calm waters that are fed by Still Creek. This is the same creek that flows through our neighbourhood’s Renfrew Ravine. Continued on page 8
Creating places for arts and culture in Renfrew Collingwood
Do you live in Renfrew-Collingwood? Do you know artists living, working or connected here? Wish there were more places for arts and
Places, Spaces and Faces culture? Page 3
If so, we need your help. To create places for making, sharing and showing arts and culture in RenfrewCollingwood, we first need a plan. Let us create
Your letters Page 5
Q&A with local author Don McLellan Page 9
Forever Young showcase Page 13
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April 2015
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Tours of Places and Spaces in Renfrew-Collingwood by Nancy Reynolds
Know this space in your community? It’s one of the community gardens in the R.C. neighbourhood. Join the tour and discover other interesting spots! Photo by Nancy Reynolds Are you interested in discovering people and places in the neighbourhood? Are you new to the neighbourhood and want to get connected? Or do you work in Renfrew-Collingwood and want to learn more about the resources, history, special places and spaces here?
Tuesday, April 7 from 6:30–8:30 pm OR Thursday, April 16 from 3-5 pm
People who connect others to the community, people interested in arts and cultural planning and other people wanting to get connected will want to take part in three upcoming tours of the neighbourhood.
Norquay area (meet at covered area behind Slocan Fieldhouse – 2750 E. 29th Avenue) Tuesday, June 2 from 6:30–8:30 pm OR Thursday, June 18 from 3-5 pm
Collingwood area (meet in Collingwood Neighbourhood House lobby – 5288 Joyce Street) Tuesday, May 5 from 6:30–8:30 pm OR Thursday, May 21 from 3-5 pm
Sponsored by Renfrew-Collingwood Renfrew area INTERactive. For more information, (meet in Games area of Renfrew Park email rcinteractive@cnh.bc.ca Community Centre – 2929 E. 22nd Avenue)
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Creating places for NEWS arts and culture RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY
in Renfrew April 2015 Collingwood
Places, Spaces and Faces Creating a community plan for arts and culture places in RenfrewCollingwood by Rob Allen
The Places, Spaces and Faces project has begun a process of community engagement in order to build a comprehensive, communityled arts and cultural plan for the Renfrew-Collingwood neighbourhood. In 2013, the Collingwood Neighbourhood House received funding to develop an arts and cultural infrastructure plan that would look at the places the community needs to strengthen Renfrew-Collingwood’s cultural opportunities and visibility. January Wolodarsky, director of community development at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, and planning facilitators Paula Carr and Charles Dobson lead the Places, Spaces and Faces project, which is expected to take until the fall of this year to complete. As spring warms the land, we are busy finding and engaging local artists and artistic and cultural organizations to learn more about what they do, where they do it, what resources could help them and what
their visions are.
Places, Spaces and Faces – How you can help Creating places for arts and culture in Renfrew Collingwood
In a parallel outreach, our volunteers will soon approach up to 5,000 local residents to get a sense of local public priorities for arts and cultural. There will be street interviews and surveys as well as an online forum.
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Do you live in Renfrew-Collingwood? Do you know artists living, working or connected here? Wish there were more places for arts and culture?
If so, we need your help. To create places for In the meantime, making, sharing and showing arts and culture in we will be working RenfrewCollingwood, we first need a plan. Let us create with all levels of a plan together that will work for everyone. government and other funding agencies to learn how we can partner more effectively watch for upcoming events and with them to enliven the Renfrewactivities. Collingwood scene as much as possible. We are also doing For more information on research on what people in other how to get involved go to places have been up to in this placesspacesfaces.ca or contact realm so we can add some exotic Paula at pcarr@cnh.bc.ca or call elements into our conversation. As a climax to all this activity we will host a big, all day Ideas Fair to bring all of the elements together in a fun, creative and communityinvolved way that will form the basis of the Renfrew-Collingwood Arts and Cultural Infrastructure Plan, expected to be drawn up in the fall. This plan will inform the dialogue about this topic into the future, representing the best picture of our hopes and dreams in RenfrewCollingwood and a credible way of realizing the vision. There are so many artists and so much cultural potential that exist in our community that can benefit us all socially, economically and spiritually. We hope that everyone in R-C can find a way to participate. Thanks — and
604-908-4448. Rob Allen is a volunteer with the Places, Spaces and Faces project.
• Help us find artists, artisans, performers, and makers who live, work or are connected to RenfrewCollingwood. • Volunteer to help with activities • Participate in ideas and design gatherings • Complete an information survey / questionnaire – You can complete the survey online or pick up a hard copy at Collingwood Neighbourhood House reception or ask for a copy by emailing pcarr@cnh.bc.ca RC Residents: https://www. surveymonkey.com/s/C6RF3ZG RC Artists: https://www.surveymonkey. com/s/YGGRZCM RC Residents (Chinese): https://www. surveymonkey.com/s/9W3VFPL RC Artists (Chinese): https://www. surveymonkey.com/s/9QKHPYB RC Residents (Spanish) is at: https:// www.surveymonkey.com/s/N2XSZCW RC Artists (Spanish) is at: https://www. surveymonkey.com/s/N9Y3X2H Find more info at placesspacesfaces.ca or contact Paula at pcarr@cnh.bc.ca or call 604-908-4448.
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
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April 2015
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Jesus Christ: Celebrating Easter Sunday, April 5 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: Rob Allen, Ricardo Cerna, Cari
Chan, Julie Cheng, Bryden Fergusson, Holly Frederickson, Sarah Green, Norman Hill, Casey Hilton, Loretta Houben, Betty Huang, Tommy Huang, Don McLellan, William Plue, Danny Quon, Nancy Reynolds, Kathy Romses
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.
An important Christian religious holiday that celebrates Jesus Christ’s resurrection after his death Art and message by Ricardo Cerna Jesus Christ is the Savior and Redeemer who, under the guidance of the Father, was the Creator of heaven and earth and all things that in them are. In His lifetime He performed miracles observed by legions of His disciples and by His enemies as well. He had power over death because he took upon Himself the sins of the world, paying an infinite price for every sorrow and sickness, every heartache and unhappiness from Adam to the end of the world. In doing so He conquered both the grave physically and hell spiritually and set the human family free.
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
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.
Jesus was resurrected from the tomb and ascending to His Father to complete the process of that Resurrection. Thus a man can be saved and, by relying
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 foster@vacfss.com or call 604-216-7447. Big
wholly upon His merits, mercy and everlasting grace, we can gain eternal life. He says: “I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of our fellow beings ye are only in the service of our God.”
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Re: The Other Guys Opinion, March 2015
Letters Open letter to B.C. Minister of Health, Terry Lake
I just read the article in your March edition titled ,”The Other Guys Opinion.” My dad was in the First Special Service Force which was dubbed “The Black Devils” by the Germans. The Devils Brigade term came out of Hollywood.
William Plue sent this letter to Minister Terry Lake on February 11, 2015, and when he did not get a reply, he sent this to the RCC News.
I worked all my life, until 70 years of age, and during most of that time the medical care in B.C. was really good. Since Premier Campbell’s cutbacks in health care, this has gone down and continues to get worse. In March 2014, I was given a date of January 23, 2015, to have a colonoscopy [to check for polyps]. A week before this I got a phone call from my doctor, that he had to cancel, as he can’t get operating space in Burnaby General, as half the operating rooms are closed due to cutbacks. I have a family history of colon cancer. It killed my dad, and my brother just caught it in time. The type of polyps that I get are the type that can turn to cancer, if left long enough. At present, I have no idea when I will get this procedure done. It could be what will cause the death of me, or it could be nothing, but I don’t think I should have to roll the dice to see. I could go to a private clinic and pay the whole shot myself, but I don’t feel I should have to do this, plus the fact I can’t afford it. Also if the worst happens, it could cost the health care system more than if it’s caught early.
The other day I heard a health care person on the radio saying that it is very costly to buy new updated equipment. What would be the point of buying new things to sit in a room, and not be used, as half the rooms are shut down. The government puts a tax on gas for everything but health care. A simple tax on gas could give them enough money to fix the system. I also feel that there must be a way to get the government off their butts, and do something to fix our health care system. Trying not to die too soon, yours, William R. Plue Update: William Plue did get scheduled for a colonoscopy for mid-March and he received a call from the Health Minister’s office.
VANCOUVER AIKIKAI Aikido is a martial art that emphasizes self-defense and character development through the practice of blending and redirection rather than head-on conflict. Vancouver Aikikai, affiliated with the International Aikido Federation, offers a safe, friendly and expert environment for studying Aikido. Try-out classes are free. Beginners, advanced and weapons classes are taught by Aikido World Headquarters-certified instructors. Our dojo is located in the Renfrew Community Center at 2929 E 22nd Ave in Vancouver. For more information, call 604.802.4853 or visit VancouverAikikai.com.
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April 2015
EYE CARE CENTRE
On March 8, my dad received his replica Congressional Gold Medal, which was presented by the Comox Legion. He is 99 years old and I must disagree with everything your guest columnist had to say about the current government’s treatment of its veterans. After reading the article in the March edition I had to reply. My dad’s case worker is fantastic and he gets everything he requires. Wheelchairs, funding for care aid help that he requires, and more. He is treated fantastically by Veteran Affairs. Two weeks ago the Defence Minister himself took time and paid my dad a personal visit to congratulate him on being awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. This was at his care home in Courtenay. To follow up he sent a hand-written letter to my dad saying how thrilled he was to visit him. This was not a press stunt as no reporters were present. So to sum up I could not disagree more from what your columnist had to say. Perhaps after reading this Robert F. Edwards will not be ashamed of the current government any longer. Regards, Casey Hilton
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
April 2015
Support your local businesses in Renfrew-Collingwood D
A
J.E.’s Alteration and Dry Cleaning Drop Off #4 3490 Kingswsay Ph:604.434.9677
Renfrew Park Community Centre 2929 E,22nd Ave. 604.257.8388
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Don Davies M.P. Kingsway Office 2951 Kingsway
Ph:604.775.6263
Renfrew / Collingwood
K
C
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North
Broadway
E.22nd Ave. K
E.29th Ave.
E.33rd Ave.
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E.41st Ave. The Tipper Restaurant Ph: 604.873.1010
Kingsway
2066 Kingsway
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Collingwood Insurance Ph: 604.438.9888
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Family Coin Laundry Phone: 604.876.4817
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5750 Tyne Street
Jo yc eS t.
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Ru pe rt St.
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Ph:604.563.0722
Renfrew St.
Nanaimo St.
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#116 - 2800 E1st Ave.
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
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April 2015
Get Involved Bruce parents raise funds for better learning tools
Spring Carnival, Friday May 22, 4-8:00 pm Graham Bruce school, 3633 Tanner Street At the basketball courts on Moscrop Avenue (between Joyce and Boundary) Graham Bruce Elementary is not the only school that has suffered from cutbacks. The Parent Advisory Committee with the help Bruce teachers and parents are taking action with their third Spring Carnival—all proceeds going towards the purchase of sports equipment, books, new technology and other items to help make this the kind of school where the kids have the tools to learn. The PAC thanks parents, teachers and students for signing up to volunteer their time to create a successful school/community event. Lots more parent participation is required. Everybody is invited to join in the classic carnival games, face painting/tattoos, bouncy castle, dunk tank, balloon pop, hole-in-one golf, cotton candy, popcorn, BBQ hot dogs and much more. Take satisfaction in knowing that your support will help provide physical recreation and years of fun to the kids in our community! Bruce is also seeking donations for their raffle draw. Do you know a clown who likes to donate their time to perform? For more information or to make a donation please email Dave Lambert at davelam@shaw.ca
Earth Day Parade, Sunday, April 26
Commercial Drive and Broadway to Grandview Park 11 am-3 pm Join Windermere high school’s Youth for Climate Justice Now for this annual familyfriendly tradition that celebrates the planet. The event kicks off with a parade starting at the Commercial-Broadway Skytrain station followed by festivities at Grandview Park.
Volunteer Income Tax Clinics
Need to file your income tax for 2014? There are free income tax clinics around town that can help you if you have a low income. Usually for seniors, Canadian citizens and/or permanent residents. Please call to see if you are eligible. MOSAIC also runs tax clinics available in: Burnaby: For Permanent Residents only Vancouver: For Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents To register, please contact: Burnaby: 778321-5406 or email taxclinicburnaby@ mosaicbc.com Vancouver: 604-254-9626 or email taxclinicvancouver@mosaicbc.com For more locations visit http//www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/vlntr/clncs/bc-eng.html Source: Canada Revenue Agency http//www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/vlntr/nd-eng.html
What’s happening at your local library Renfrew Branch Library 2969 East 22nd Ave. at Nootka 604-257-8705
Collingwood Branch Library 2985 Kingsway at Rupert 604-665-3953
STORYTIMES
Spring at Collingwood Library means more special programs for children and families:
Babytime (0-18 months), Wednesdays 11:15 am, April 1–May 13 Toddler Storytime (18m-3 years), Wednesdays 10:15 am, April 1–May 13 Family Storytime (all ages), Saturdays 11:15 am, March 28–May 16
FOR THE SCHOOL-AGE CHILD
Storytime for Daycare & Preschool Groups Monthly on the first Tuesday of the month. Spring sessions: April 7, May 5, 10:30 am For ages 3-5 and teachers/caregivers
Fancy Nancy Tea Party [BOLD] Party with your favourite book characters! Crafts and games inspired by the characters from this series. By registration. Saturday, April 4 at 2:30 pm
Special event: Easter egg scavenger hunt Thursday, April 2, 2-5 pm Celebrate the Easter long weekend with a fun Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt. Visit the library anytime between 2 and 5 pm for a chance to win prizes! For ages 0-12. No actual chocolate eggs are involved.
Lego Block Parties [BOLD] Drop in once a month to express your creativity with Lego and make new friends. Lego provided. Saturdays at 11 am. April11, May 9, June 6
SCHOOL-AGE PROGRAMS Kidszone after-school drop-in Wednesdays 3:30-5 pm, March 25 – April 29 Percy Jackson Party April 9, 3:30-4:30 pm Party with your favourite book characters! Crafts and games all inspired by the characters from the Percy Jackson series! Have fun and celebrate the characters you know and love. Lego Block Party Monday, April 27, 3:30-5:00 pm Drop-in to express your creativity with Lego and make new friends. Lego provided. For ages 6-12.
ADULT PROGRAMS ESL Conversation Club Saturdays, 2:30-4:00 pm Get to know the people in your neighborhood while improving your English skills in a fun and casual setting! This weekly program is suitable for intermediate and advanced students. No registration is required. Light refreshments provided. Pad Pad Club Fridays 10 am-12 noon Drop in and get help with your iPad or tablet in Cantonese SFU Writer’s Studio Writing Consults Tuesday, April 7: 4-4:45, 5-5:45, 6-6:45 pm Need an expert opinion on your writing? Free, one-on-one consultations on seven pages of poetry or a prose manuscript. Must be submitted one week prior to your appointment. Call 604-331-3603 to register Living with Stroke April 1–May 20, 6:00-8:00 pm This eight-week program is designed to help stroke survivors and their families improve quality of life, cope with challenges and connect with others. Learn to take control of recovery and reduce the risk of having another stroke. Presented in partnership with the Heart and Stroke Foundation. You are encouraged to attend all sessions. Registration required. Call 1-888-473-4636 Online gardening course Tuesdays, April 14–May 26, 7-8:30 pm Grow delicious, nutritious fruit and vegetables in your own backyard! This 6 week course is taught primarily online and includes an orientation and in-person group discussions. Register by calling 604-257-8705. Each One Teach One: Seniors Financial Abuse Prevention Thursday, April 23, 2:00-3:30 pm What is financial abuse? Who are abusers? Understand the factors involved in the financial abuse of seniors, and learn about strategies to prevent abuse from occurring. Presented in partnership with Vancity.
FOR FAMILIES WITH EARLY YEARS CHILDREN Family Storytime – drop-in [BOLD] Stories, rhymes and songs for the whole family Thursday mornings, April 2–14 May 14, 10:30 am–11:00 am Babytime – drop in [BOLD] Songs, rhymes, lap play and books for baby Thursday mornings, April 2–May 14, 11:30 am–12:00 pm
“When I got my library card, that was when my life began.” - Rita Mae Brown FOR ADULTS ESL Book Club April 14, 28, 7:00 –8:30 pm Enjoy practising your English conversation and reading skills while learning about culture and meeting new people. This program is most suitable for intermediate speakers. Registration is required. To register and to get the book to read, please contact the Collingwood Branch at 604-665-3953. One to One Computer Training Every week Want to learn how to use a computer? How to send an email? Or maybe you would like to learn more about the Vancouver Public Library’s online collections, eBooks? Please call the library at 604-665-3953 and book a 45 minutes private lesson tailored to your needs! Income Tax Preparation Clinics Tuesday, April 21, 4:00 –8:00 pm Need help with your income tax? Come to one of our free drop-in sessions. Trained volunteers will help you prepare your income tax return. Help is available to eligible taxpayers who have modest income and simple tax situations. Check the following link for eligibility: http:// www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/vlntr/nd-eng.html
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April 2015
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Skytrain Rambler: Continued from page 1 Before coming out of the station, enjoy the beautiful light coming from the station’s stained glass. Then head south (away from the mountains) and take the overpass, where you’ll be rewarded with a glimpse of Still Creek and other great views. Follow the Central Valley signs to Burnaby Lake. Pass by the target range for the Burnaby Archery Club and head to the back side of the Burnaby Lake Sports Complex (includes the Bill Copeland ice rink). You’ll soon find one of the entrances to Burnaby Lake. Ahead of you is a path leading across a bridge and to your right another path leads to a large open field where people can be found flying model airplanes whenever the geese are not around. It’s your choice which route you take. Either one will take you around the lake’s entire 11 kilometres of trail.
You get great views from the overpass. Photos by Julie Cheng and Bryden Fergusson
If you don’t have much time to walk around the whole lake, continue to the right past the large field. You will cross a parking lot and come across the boat house. The boat house (actually called a rowing pavilion) and spectator stands were built for the rowing events during the 1973 Canada Summer Games. More recently rowers trained here for the 2012 Summer Olympics, and the last time I visited, there was a wedding in full swing in the beautiful boat house. From here people also launch their rowboats or kayaks. Skytrain is a fast, efficient and environmentally friendly option for transportation. It saves you parking and gas, and best of all, lets you enjoy beautiful natural spaces like Burnaby Lake. Julie Cheng is the editor of the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News. Find more Skytrain Rambler stories at RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com. You can find a map of Burnaby Lake Regional Park at www.burnaby.ca/ Assets/New+Things+To+Do/Explore+The+Outdoors/Parks/ Burnaby+Lake+Detail+Map.pdf
The view from the boat house.
Members of the Burnaby Archery Club practice their targets.
Follow the Central Valley signs to Burnaby Lake.
You can get a nice view of Still Creek from this bridge.
It is not safe to cross the field when the model airplanes are flying overhead. In addition to baby ducks and geese, Burnaby Lake is a great place to spot blue herons, bald eagles, kingfishers and osprey.
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Q&A
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April 2015
with local author Don McLellan: The inside story
Local writer Don McLellan grew up in Renfrew Heights. His short story collection, In the Quiet After Slaughter, a 2009 ReLit Award finalist, was largely set in the war veterans’ housing project there. Several of the stories in Brunch with the Jackals, published last month by Thistledown Press, also feature tales set in Renfrew-Collingwood.
A Four of the stories are set here. One is about
Q How many stories are in this
drug-sick junkies waiting for their pusher to arrive; it starts in an alley near the Collingwood Skytrain station. A story about a softball game played to settle a labour dispute is based on a strike that happened at a warehouse just east of Gaston Park. Another begins under a school portable at Renfrew Elementary (now the Vancouver Christian School). And finally there’s a tale based on a murder that happened a few blocks from where I grew up.
collection, and is there a theme running through them?
Q What is your favourite memory of growing up in this neighbourhood?
A There are 10 stories and one novella, which anchors the collection. Though each of the stories is quite different, all include a transgression, from cheating at softball to serial murder.
Q Where did you find the inspiration for the stories?
A If I knew where story ideas came from, I would go there more often.
Q Why do you prefer the short story format?
A The short story has been called “the art of the glimpse” and a foot race compared to the marathon that is the novel, but that doesn’t mean they are easier to write, or a lesser art form. In a short story, readers are dropped into the characters’ lives only briefly, so the writer must use all of his craftsmanship to keep the reader turning pages – quite a challenge in today’s short-attention-span world. For marketing reasons, many novels are padded with details that don’t necessarily advance the narrative. Alice Munro, who won the 2013 Nobel Prize in Literature, famously said she’d rarely read a novel that wouldn’t have made a better short story. And let’s not forget that many movies begin as short stories.
A For me it was all about the kids. There was as many of us boomers as there were mosquitoes in a swamp. We built tree forts and rafts down at Still Creek. We pedalled our bikes all over town and made go-carts and played street hockey. First kisses happened here. Hearts were broken. We watched the downtown skyline sprout up and spread out, just like us. The ’60s really were a magical mystery tour; it seemed like our lives were set to a soundtrack. Renfrew-Collingwood was our headquarters.
Q How can we purchase the book? A Thistledown Press has been around for 40 years, and bookstores stock its wares regularly. Brunch with the Jackals can also be purchased online at Amazon.com or by visiting my website, donmclellan. com, which has a link to the publisher’s order desk. The list price is $18.95.
Q How do you turn your ideas into
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stories; what is your process?
A Sometimes I see the whole thing before me, and I just copy it down, as though I’m channelling. Story ideas can also swirl around in my head for years before I commit. And then one day – I might be munching on a taco – something clicks. I marry one idea to another, and that’s the piece of the puzzle I need to get started. It’s a mysterious process, and a lot like fishing: One waits patiently for a nibble.
Q Are some of the stories set in Renfrew-Collingwood?
Free cheezy bread! Local writer Don McLellan grew up in Renfrew Heights. Several stories in his new book, Brunch with the Jackals, feature tales set in RenfrewCollingwood.
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Read On!
April 2015
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners
Earth Day
Read On!
has a web page. You can:
Did you take a shower today? Wash the dishes? Did you eat breakfast, lunch or dinner? Every day we use water from the mountains and eat food from the earth. We enjoy the beauty of nature around Vancouver: trees, mountains, rivers and ocean. The earth gives us so much.
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What do we do for the earth? How can we help keep the world beautiful and healthy? Wednesday, April 22 is Earth Day. On this day around the world people do things to help the earth. The earth gives us what we need to live. For one day of the year, we try to do something helpful for the earth and for all of the people who live here. What are some easy things you can do to help on Earth Day? Here are some ideas: 1. Walk, ride your bike or take public transit instead of driving 2. Pick up garbage around your neighbourhood 3. Use less water; turn off lights that you don’t need 4. Only buy foods grown in B.C. 5. Instead of buying something new, buy it used 6. Volunteer your time to plant trees or plants Can doing these small things make a difference? Yes! Earth Day is celebrated in 192 countries. If the millions of people in these countries made changes for just one day, it would make a big difference. You don’t have to wait until Earth Day to do these things, either. You might hear someone say, “Earth Day is every day.” This means that every day is a good day to do something for the earth.
Earth Day Parade Every year since 2011, the students from Windmere high school have put on the Earth Day celebration, march and festival. Everyone is invited to join the parade. It starts at Commercial Drive and Broadway (by Broadway Skytrain station) and goes to Grandview Park. There will be music and costumes and special guest speakers. It is a family-friendly event. Many other schools and young people participate, too. This year the parade is on Sunday, April 26. For more information go to earthdayparade.ca
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Earth Day T L Q L M O D A U B Z X X O N
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P Y B R A H N T D V Z W Q I H
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CELEBRATE DIFFERENCE FESTIVAL NATURE PARADE TRANSIT WORLD
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COSTUME EARTH MARCH NEIGHBOURHOOD PARTICIPATE USED
Beth displays LegalShield’s handy application that gives members access to legal advice at the click of a button. Beth Hernandez is currently in her third year as an independent associate for LegalShield. This former doctor is thrilled with her new profession. “I love using Legal Shield and I love promoting it to others. Why? Because it makes sense and Legal Shield’s mission, to promote equal justice, aligns with my personal mission.” When LegalShield founder Harland Stonecipher was in a motor vehicle accident in 1969, he realized it was “money, not rights”, that gained you access to our legal system. After depleting his life savings defending himself against something he didn’t do, Stonecipher was determined to make legal protection accessible to everyone, everywhere. That was over 40 years ago. Since then, LegalShield has been offering legal service plans to over four million families. Just like car insurance, you pay a little each month and then you are covered. For as little as $26. a month, you’ll have access to a quality law firm. From letters written on your behalf to document review, Legal Shield’s attorneys are there to provide legal advice—no matter how traumatic or how trivial it may seem. Providing confidence and peace of mind for families everywhere, Legal Shield’s motto is “Worry Less and Live More”. Not only does Beth sell LegalShield, she also helps others to do the same. She invites you to join her on Wednesdays from 11 am to 1 pm in the lunch lounge in the Telus building. You can call her if you plan to attend. Why sell Legal Shield? “There is no other company like it. You are virtually self-employed and can work when you want to and where you want to. For those reasons it’s the perfect profession for mothers as they can balance a
CBIA UPDATES l
career with motherhood.” Join Beth on Wednesdays to learn more. Once you sign up with LegalShield, you will have topnotch Law Firms there to offer advice or assistance on a variety of legal issues. Just contact your provider firm directly to speak to an attorney in your area with knowledge of whatever field you need: divorce, adoption, child custody, moving violations or accidents, estate issues, wills, healthcare, power of attorney, bankruptcy, property disputes, foreclosure or rental issues. Your attorney will be there to serve you, no matter how trivial or traumatic the situation, 24 hours, seven days a week. The new My LS App comes free with your LegalShield Membership! LegalShield also specializes in affordable Identity Theft Protection that will help prevent and resolve identity theft issues. Benefits include: credit report and monitoring, personal credit score analysis, SIN , Medical card theft Protection, Criminal and Character fraud protection- complete identity restoration service, . Beth came to Canada in 1994 from the Philippines with her two children and her husband. Now they have three children as they adopted a son in 2009. She and her family have always lived in Collingwood and she thanks everyone for keeping it peaceful, clean and beautiful. Beth is busy at St. Mary’s Church, volunteering with the St. Mary’s Catholic Woman’s League. In 1997, Beth got to be one of the founding members of the first All-Filipino Choir at St. Mary’s. When she has a chance, Beth enjoys badminton and scrabble and loves to read personal development books. l
Collingwood Days - You can participate in this annual event!
Collingwood Days is accepting International Marketplace, Food Court and Volunteer applica-tions. Over the past 12 years this community festival has grown to over 50 vendors. If you have a product or business or a non profit organization and would like to participate in this year’s event, please go to the website www. collingwooddays.com You can also sign up to vol-unteer for the many events that will occur during the week of May 21 - 31st. Help us make Collingwood Days the Biggest Little Festival in Vancouver. DON’T MISS OUT GO TO THE WWW.COLLINGWOODDAYS.COM TO SIGN UP!
See the full page ad, back page of this issue for more information.
Spring Banners
The Collingwood BIA is proud to launch the brand new Spring/Summer Street Banners. They are bold, colourful and you may recognize the buildings. They are all in Collingwood. There will be more additions to the Street Beautification in the area. More information to come in the next month. l
Jr. BIA
Congratulations to the Collingwood Jr BIA for completing a very successful Case Study with Vancity and learning about Co Ops. Thank you Angela Lam, Collingwood Vancity Branch Man-ager for providing the Windermere students an opportunity to coordinate an entire event and for the participants to work on skills to prepare them for the business world. The winning team will be working with Vancity over the summer to devise a working plan to implement their ideas. Next months Who’s Who will feature the Jr. BIA.
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*This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Business Improvement Association
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Eat Well at Work to Boost Your Energy and Productivity by Holly Frederickson with Kathy Romses, Registered Dietitian Eating well at work can boost your energy, concentration and productivity. It can also reduce sick days by helping to improve overall health. Workday challenges can make it difficult to eat well. You may have a rushed start to your day, no time for a break, food-filled meeting rooms, workplace celebrations and end-of-shift dinner struggles. Last month was Nutrition Month and the 2015 campaign aimed to inspire Canadians to eat better
at work and make other positive changes for a healthier workplace. Workers reported five common challenges to eating well: • Rushed start: Almost 40% of Canadians skip breakfast, increasing their risk for morning brain drain. Even if your shift starts in the evening, having something to eat when you first wake up will help prevent that drained feeling. • Meetings, events and the workplace: manage workplace munchies with Mother Nature’s candy dish—a big bowl of fresh
fruit—or try keeping trail mix out on the table to snack on. • Meal time: branch out from typical cafeteria and restaurant food and start a healthy meal club—make time to take a break from your work space, and enjoy eating a meal with coworkers or friends. • Mid-shift slump: energize with a walk, some water or a small snack. • Commuter cravings: pack healthy snacks like fruit, veggies or trail mix for the commute.
10 tips for job search success
Visit www.nutritionmonth2015.ca for tips on eating well at work from registered dietitians. • Get inspiring meal and snack ideas using the free smartphone app Cookspiration or daily tips with eaTipster • Download eaTracker to review your food and activity choices, analyze your recipes and plan your meals • Watch videos with advice from registered dietitians Holly Frederickson is a dietetic intern at the University of Saskatchewan.
Ching Ming Festival 清明節 by Danny Quon
Are you feeling overwhelmed with your job search or stuck on where to start? Many job seekers think the task of landing a job is like climbing a mountain, with no idea where to start. Here are 10 tips that will help you focus your job search. Plan ahead 1. Define your goals and priorities: Take the time to reflect on what is really important to you. 2. Don’t apply for every single job posting: Ask yourself what you really want out of your next job.
Visit the Vancouver Job and Career Fair on Tuesday, April 14 at the Croatian Market yourself 3. Develop an elevator pitch: A quick Cultural Centre. For more details go way to communicate who you are and to www.mosaicbc.com. Photo courtesy of Vancouver Northeast WorkBC Centre what you have to offer. 4. Develop a personal brand and be consistent in your presentation: From business cards to your resume and online presence. 5. Review your online presence: Remove any material that could be found “questionable” if a potential employer Google searches your name. Network 6. Conduct information interviews: Collect information about an organization and a specific occupation while building your professional network. 7. Join professional groups: Make professional development the real goal. 8. Network in person and online: Use social media to stay in touch with other professionals and make the
most of opportunities to connect with new people in your field. 9. Volunteer within your community: Give back to your community while demonstrating your work ethic and commitment to a worthwhile cause. Take care of yourself 10. Give yourself a break: Take time off from your job search to participate in activities that you enjoy and make you feel better. Stay healthy, keep active and make time for family and friends. This job search tip has been brought to you by the Vancouver Northeast WorkBC Centre. For more job search tips and/ or information about our services please call 604-708-9300 or visit www. employmentworks.ca
The Ching Ming festival (清明節), or the Chinese tomb sweeping festival, is celebrated on April 5th this year, but many families also take part within the two weeks prior to this date. Ching Ming has been observed in China for thousands of years and it remains one of the most important events in the Chinese calendar. During a Ching Ming visit to the cemetery, it is common to help clean the deceased’s grave stone, take out weeds and to help trim the grass. This simple act shows respect for family—an extremely important Chinese virtue. Depending on individual family traditions, you might also lay out offerings of wine, food, incense and flowers. The Chinese believe that by honouring and remembering your ancestors and departed loved ones, it will ensure that the descendants are blessed with continued peace, good health and happiness. This ancient ritual is an important part of Chinese culture and heritage and one that still has an important message to be taught to the younger generation today. Danny Quon is a member of the Hon Hsing Athletic Club (in Chinatown). He teaches martial arts to the youth group and is very committed to keeping Chinese tradition and culture rich among the new generation.
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
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April 2015
The Seniors Connection Forever Young Talent Showcase by Loretta Houben
The following is a paid advertisement by Adrian Dix, MLA for Vancouver/Kingsway
6th 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! Unique talent was on display in the Forever Young showcase at Windermere Secondary on February 26. Photos by Betty Huang and Tommy Huang Forever young—what a concept! After attending a senior’s and young people’s talent showcase late February at Windermere Secondary school in Vancouver, I was quite surprised and realized it’s possible after all to be forever young.
Shay, a writer and poet, read three of his poems. Alicia Crestejo, who has won many awards, gave a rendition of two pieces of opera. Her beautiful voice filled the auditorium.
turquoise tops, performed three lively dances. If I had half their energy I’d be doing well!
The program ended with the Forever Young choir singing Imagine All the People and 12 We then saw a video clip recorded of these students were from the Lifeskills class at Windermere. by a senior, showing a group The program celebrated the talent visiting Buntzen Lake and having The high school provided the fun rowing last year. Newton and stage and auditorium free of and collaboration of nearly one charge. Thank you! Charles, a fun duet, sang Pretty year of work that began in May 2014 and ran to the end of March Woman with great gusto. Carmen Rosen, who has 2015. This particular program, experience with large events, Two young people then funded by the New Horizons for including the annual Renfrew entertained us. Violinist Clara Seniors Programs grant, was Chisholm treated us to a piece by Ravine Moon Festival, created for isolated seniors and Jarod Fox, a Canadian composer. coordinated the Forever Young consisted of innovative projects talent showcase. The volunteer Sanjit, a UBC student, narrated and activities. coordinator Emily Chan was able Where the Heart Is. to get the Windermere students A slideshow was presented on a large screen, displaying beautiful Suddenly the sounds of Elvis filled involved. paintings and pictures created by the room as Peter Yapp sang It’s I was impressed with the array Now or Never, dancing up and the seniors over the past year. of talent, and it made me quite down the aisles in a flamboyant happy to realize that the senior costume, at one point throwing Janet Lee was the MC. The years don’t have to be filled teddy bears at a group of young program showcased the various with sadness and loneliness. children. talents of the seniors. Bright With programs like these in our Sunset Chinese dance was neighbourhood, there’s really no The Renfrew Senior Dance Club, performed by women wearing consisting of eight women dressed excuse not to live an active and lovely green costumes. Timothy happy life. in black skirts and sparkly
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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Collingwood Neighbourhood House
H IGHLIG H TS CNH’s ‘Hearts of Gratitude’ project highlighted kindness and gratitude by Norman Hill
Last month, CNH ran a project called ‘Hearts of Gratitude’. Kindness and gratitude make CNH and our community a warm place. Every day people are kind to others at CNH and in the community. The purpose of the project was to recognize people’s kindness and show our gratitude for that kindness or for other things we are grateful for at CNH or in the community. To participate in the project, participants wrote a short message on a pink, paper heart to express their gratitude for someone’s kindness or something that they were grateful for, and submitted the heart to CNH’s front desk. Volunteers posted the hearts around CNH, which created a warm and colourful display. Many people took time to write messages of gratitude. It was wonderful to read so many messages that revealed our neighbours’ appreciation for CNH, our community and the amazing people in it. CNH is grateful to the many people who took time to participate in the project and also to all the people whose work helped make the project a success. May this project inspire further kindness and gratitude in our community!
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CNH’s strength comes from community members. By connecting with us on Facebook or Twitter you can keep up to date on our activities and find out about fun things happening at CNH and in our neighbourhood. LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cnh.bc.ca
FOLLOW us on Twitter: @collingwoodnh
COMMUNITY LUNCH 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.” Thursday 2 Salisbury steak (or vegetarian option) Mashed potatoes Salad, Cream cheese brownies Tuesday 7 Broccoli and lemon soup Chicken or vegetarian stromboli (Italian turnover) Salad, Bran muffin
April Lunch menu Thursday 9 Chinese-style stir-fry with rice (beef or vegetarian) Salad, Ginger pudding Tuesday 14 Squash and thyme soup Tuna or veggie cheeseburger Salad, Shortbread cookie
This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House
Thursday 16 Stuffed chicken/eggplant with feta cheese and pumpkin seeds Toasted pita bread Salad, Pecan cookie Tuesday 21 Carrot soup Vegetable or shrimp pie Salad, Chocolate cupcake
Thursday 23 Pierogis with sausages and caramelized onions Salad , Pineapple upside-down cake Tuesday 28 Pistachio soup Turkey or veggie and hummus wrap Salad, Coconut muffin Thursday 30 Spaghetti with meatballs or primavera sauce Salad, Quinoa cake
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
How Does Your Garden Grow?PART ONE Booklist by Sarah Green, Librarian, Renfrew Branch Library 2969 East 22nd Avenue, Vancouver, B.C. 604-257-8705
The White Garden: A novel of Virigina Woolf / Barron, Stephanie (2009) Fiction Mystery Six decades after Virginia Woolf’s death, landscape designer Jo Bellamy has come to Sissinghurst Castle for two reasons: to study the celebrated White Garden created by Woolf’s lover Vita Sackville-West and to recover from the terrible wound of her grandfather’s unexplained suicide. The Lost Garden / Humphreys, Helen (2002) Adult Fiction London is on fire from the Blitz, and horticulturist Gwen Davis has fled the devastated city for a ruined estate in Devon. With a haunting story of love in a time of war, Humphreys has created a novel that is both heartrending and heart-mending. The Gin & Tonic Gardener: Confessions of a reformed compulsive gardener / Wells, Janice (2006) 635.9 W45g The Gin & Tonic Gardener is designed for those of us who would rather enjoy our gardens than find ourselves enslaved by them. Though filled with humour, The Gin & Tonic Gardener does provide practical tips, including hints for the northern gardener whose prime growing season is limited to a few months of summer. The Passionate Gardener: Adventures of an ardent green thumb / Kennedy, Des (2006) 635.02 K35p In this rollicking read, Des Kennedy demonstrates his unerring skill with a satirical pitchfork. The 13 short pieces here roam widely and wildly, examining common idiosyncrasies and the collective chaos of garden clubs. Whether discussing dysfunctional garden sprayers or smelly urine collection schemes, Kennedy finds both the magic and the madness in one of life’s most popular passions. The Backyard Parables: Lessons on Gardening, and Life / Roach, Margaret (2013) 635 R62b Margaret Roach has been harvesting 30 years of backyard parables - deceptively simple, instructive stories from a life spent digging ever deeper - and has distilled them in this memoir along with her best tips for garden making, discouraging animal and insect opponents, athome pickling, and more. Roach uses her understanding of the natural world, philosophy and life to explore the ways that gardening saved and instructed her, and meditates on the science and spirituality of nature. The Dirty Life: On farming, food and love / Kimball, Kristen (2010) 631.584 K49d “This book is the story of the two love affairs that interrupted the trajectory of my life: one with farming - that dirty, concupiscent art - and the other with a complicated and exasperating farmer.” Kimball’s descriptions of landscape, food, cooking - and marriage - are irresistible. “As much as you transform the land by farming,” she writes, “farming transforms you.”
Special Easter Hours of Operation 1pm-5pm
Fitness Centre 1pm-5pm
Centre Area Closed
8:30am-4pm
9:30am-4pm
9am-5pm
1pm-5pm 1pm-5pm
1pm-5pm 1pm-5pm
11am-6pm Closed
Pool
Fri Sat Sun Mon
Apr 3 Apr 4 Apr 5 Apr 6
Afternoon Tea with a Local Author (55+yrs) This is a co-sponsored event with Renfrew Public Library and Renfrew Park Community Centre. Please register early for this event. Thu 2:00-4:00pm Apr 9 Free Seed Swap at Renfrew (All Ages)
Seeds are the heart of our food systems. We welcome trades or donations of pesticide-free seeds, bulbs, or plants from your own garden! Sat 9:30am-1:30pm Apr 18 Free
Britannia Mine Museum Tour (55+yrs)
Wed
9:00am-4:30pm
Apr 29
April Showers Luncheon (55+yrs)
$89/person
Wed 12:00-2:30pm Apr 29 $9/person
YOVO Baking Buddies (6-8yrs)
YOVO Instructor Join us every week and bake some yummy snacks that you can share with your new cooking buddies. No session May 2. Sat 10:30-11:45am Apr 18-May 30 $12/6 sess
Health Qigong (19+yrs) Lisa Low Health Qigong ultimately helps to achieve relaxation, focus, peace in our minds and to enhance the health of our bodies. $4.75/drop-in if space. No session May 18. 10:00-11:00am Apr 13-Jun 22 $40/10 sess Renfrew Licensed Preschool
Girls Can Too! (7-12yrs)
Jeffrey Au-Yeung Come out to learn and play a variety of sports, from volleyball to basketball to soccer in a fun and friendly environment. Did I mention it's girls only? $3.50/drop-in if space. No session May 18. $27/9 sess Mon 4:30-5:30pm Apr 13-Jun 15 Just the Girls (9-12yrs) Suzy Parker The Girls Only program intent is to assist in building self-esteem and empowering girls to make healthy choices. This program will be based on trust, inclusion and Fun! Tue 5:00-6:30pm Apr 21-Jun 9 Free
Open House - Tue, April 21, 4:00-8:00pm
This is the time to come and check out our preschool facility and speak to our ECE certified teachers. Bring your child, and your questions. Activities will be set up for children.
Registration - Fri, May 1st
Priority registration is given to siblings and those currently in the program. Forms will be handed out on the day of registration at 6:00am. If you are accepted into the class, an appointed time will be issued for you to return for the orientation, make payments and return completed forms.
Abs & Toning (19+yrs) *FREE TRIAL*
Alicia Meek FREE TRIAL class, please pre-register: Great addition to your Zumba dance class to complete your workout. Mon 8:15-8:45pm Apr 13 Free
Belly Dance (19+yrs) *FREE TRIAL* Ammara Dance Co *FREE TRIAL CLASS, pre-registration is required* Wed 7:30-8:45pm Apr 15 Free
Wibit Inflatable Day
Saturday, April 4, 2015 2:00–4:00pm
Come and join in the fun! *Regular admission rates apply
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS