Renfrew-Collingwood Community News February 2018

February 2018

COMMUNITY NEWS

RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com

A Valentine gift to get every heart pumping Be INTERactive: Move your muscles and make new friends

by Julie Cheng INTERactive is going strong in the Renfrew-Collingwood community. I’m glad because it’s a terrific way to get bodies moving and hearts pumping – the perfect Valentine gift for yourself and your loved ones.

I’m glad because, growing up, I didn’t have sporty friends to play with (my friends were smart) and didn’t have parents who could afford the time or money to drive me around to play sports. I was a typical child of an immigrant family who didn’t have the means to help me do well in sports. I just had runners, a tennis ball and a racquet, and I would spend hours pounding the ball against the wall.

Affordability, language and feelings of not belonging are some of the reasons people of all ages are not physically University of B.C. students gave INTERactive training to the Windermere Grade 10 Leadership active, but particularly for immigrant families. Many children start out in sport but without a supportive, fun class to deliver Fastbreak basketball to local elementary schools. Photos courtesy of INTERactive environment, 65% drop out by age 14.

I was lucky; I joined my high school volleyball, badminton and, yes, tennis teams. I played softball starting in my twenties. Today, I bike and hike and cannot go one or two days before I need to get some exercise.

Dance walking is one of the many non-competitive and fun activities that a group can do to stay physically active and socially connected.

That need to move is a good thing. According to ParticipACTION, being active can help children improve their health, self-esteem and confidence, do better in school, maintain a healthy weight and feel happier. For adults, regular exercise strengthens muscles and bones, improves mental health and reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

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February 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

INTERactive: Continued from page 1 Come together right now with Freshslice Pizza

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“Many children and youth are not getting the activity [they need] to maintain physical and mental health,” notes Mike McLenaghen, who is currently the INTERactive project coordinator but for many years was the recreation coordinator then director of community services at Collingwood Neighbourhood House.

that every youngster can join in the fun. The Windermere students then brought this training to the Fastbreak basketball they ran in five local elementary schools.

The training received rave reviews from the Grade 10 Leadership class.

“Fastbreak is a program that the Grade 10 Leadership program runs at What is INTERactive? surrounding elementary schools,” exThe INTERactive project brings plained one Windermere student. “It together people from all cultures was great to have the older students (the “INTER” as in intercultural) come in and teach us how we can to take part in physical activity (the teach the younger students. They gave “active”). In turn, this combination us many ideas on things we could do creates stronger, healthier commu- with basketball with the kids … they nities. gave me confidence to be a leader at Fastbreak.”

This past fall, McLenaghen focused on bringing the INTERactive ap“It was fun playing and socializing proach to local children and youth with the little kids. I also got the to encourage them be more physi- chance to lead them, which is also a cally active and socially connected. learning opportunity for me on how to INTERactive teaches basic movebe a leader,” wrote another Leadership ment skills and games from differ- student. “It was also a blast learning ent cultures in a playful, fun envifrom the UBC students; I’ve learnt ronment. new ways to get children pumped up while having fun with my friends.”

McLenaghen enlisted the help of University of B.C. kinesiology “The Fastbreak training from the UBC students to train the Windermere students was pretty fun and helpful. I Grade 10 Leadership class in the learned a lot from them such as how to INTERactive approach. The Grade deal better with the kids, how to plan 10 students learned to put together games that are suitable for different social agreements and teach sport types of students and different ways to skills in a non-competitive way so play a game.”

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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

INTERactive: Continued from page 2 Rosanna Choi, a fourth-year kinesiology student at UBC, was immediately drawn to the INTERactive project. “I believe in the importance of physical activity at a young age and INTERactive is a great way to promote interculturalism through physical activity,” she writes in an email.

What are examples of intercultural physical activity?

“We played games with minimal verbal instructions, thus allowing those that are unable to communicate or understand English to easily understand games based on visual instructions,” says Choi.

“We also included games that are universal such as tag, but adjusted the difficulty level by incorporating teamwork skills.

For example, we played tag, but a progression is Toilet Tag – this incorporated spatial awareness skills and the understanding of what team sportsmanship is like through teamwork.”

“When we got the ball rolling, everyone was more involved,” Choi adds. “We wanted to provide an interactive space right from the start and it was great to see how much progression came about, even just after one warm-up game.”

“The whole experience was rewarding because it is easy to forget that a small alteration in a game or instruction can impact a child’s participation level and interest as well. Being interactive does not require a whole lot of effort, but just a positive environment that cultivates positive learning experiences.”

February 2018 BUILDYOURBESTDAY.COM

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CANADIAN 24-HOUR MOVEMENT GUIDELINES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH An Integration of Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, and Sleep.

A HEALTHY 24 HOURS INCLUDES:

SWEAT MODERATE TO VIGOROUS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY An accumulation of at least 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous physical activity involving a variety of aerobic activities. Vigorous physical activities and muscle and bone strengthening activities should each be incorporated at least 3 days per week.

STEP LIGHT PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Several hours of a variety of structured and unstructured light physical activities.

SLEEP SLEEP Uninterrupted 9 to 11 hours of sleep per night for those aged 5 to 13 years and 8 to 10 hours per night for those aged 14 to 17 years, with consistent bedtimes and wake-up times.

SIT SEDENTARY BEHAVIOUR No more than 2 hours per day of recreational screen time and limited sitting for extended periods.

Watch for more INTERactive this spring and summer.

Preserving sufficient sleep, trading indoor time for outdoor time, and replacing sedentary behaviour and light Plans are underway to facilitate workphysical activity with additional moderate to vigorous physical activity can provide greater health benefits. shops for Fastbreak Soccer in early spring with the Grade 10 Leadership Source: ParticipACTION class. If your child goes to one of the local http://www.cnh.bc.ca/wp-content/upVISIT BUILDYOURBESTDAY.COM AND CREATE THE BEST DAY EVER! loads/2017/02/Activities-for-everyone-evelementary schools, make sure you sign erywhere-An-Intercultural-Physical-Activithem up. ty-Guide-FINAL-20161.pdf The main focus for the annual Collingwood Days will be “play.” McLenaghen’s Intercultural Physical Activity Guide gets neighbours moving and learning from each team will be training youth in the comMike McLenaghen, coordinator of the INTERactive other munity to help lead INTERactive games project, says interculturalism is like a stew where Published in the November 2014 issue of and activities during Collingwood Days the unique flavours of each ingredient create new RCC News events. flavours. https://renfrewcollingwoodcommuniINTERactive training is also in the works tynews.com/2014/11/12/intercultural-physSimilarly, with different people coming together, ical-activity-guide-gets-neighbours-movingfor recreation and summer staff at both each person adds their own distinctive seasoning Collingwood Neighbourhood House and and-learning-from-each-other/ – their diverse ideas and talents – and together we Renfrew Park Community Centre. create a new dish – a new society where everyone Go out and play: Focus on fun and basic feels like they belong. skills the key to staying To find out more about INTERacPublished in the December 2012 of RCC tive, check out these resources: According to Growing an Intercultural NeighbourNews Activities for Everyone, Everywhere: An hood, Growing a Civil Society, interculturalism is https://renfrewcollingwoodcommuniIntercultural Physical Activity Guide different than celebrating diversity side by side, tynews.com/2012/12/19/go-out-and-play/ Published January 2016 which is often the outcome of multiculturalism.

What is interculturalism?

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February 2018

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: Joy Hanser, Julie Cheng, Karen Lok Yi Wong, Lisa Symons, Loretta Houben, Paul Reid, Susan Wong, Tony Wanless

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.

The Renfrew/Collingwood Community News does not necessarily support the views of its contributors.

Next submission deadline: Feb. 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

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Collingwood Corner: The changing face of Joyce Street by Loretta Houben In the 1960s my mom, pushing a stroller with my baby sister, myself trotting along beside it, would often walk from Monmouth Avenue all the way up Wellington Street, turning right onto Joyce and on up the hill to Kingsway to do shopping.

Joyce Street had quite a few olderstyle houses and two-storey apartment buildings then. Before the SkyTrain was built in 1985, I remember crossing the train tracks, and I remember some of those old homes built in the 1910 era.

I was astonished recently to discover a photo of the old house that was once situated at 5098 Joyce, at the corner of Vanness on the east side. I had forgotten about this house, as now a lane is there. As I write this, the other three buildings on that side are slated to come down, to be replaced by a 30-storey apartment building.

5098 Joyce Street in 1978. From the Vancouver Archives.

Eventually the remaining old homes on Joyce will all be gone. What do you think of all this change?

A giant THANK YOU to the contributors and advertisers that make the RCCNews possible.

To Advertise

Contact Lisa at 604-435-0323 or email: rccnews-sales@cnh.bc.ca

Corner of Joyce and Vanness, nearly 40 years later in 2017. Photo by LH

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Strong Women

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February 2018

Commemorating International Women’s Day, March 8

As we celebrate the upcoming 20th anniversary of the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News, I’m reminded that 10 years have already passed since I joined the team as the advertising and distribution coordinator.

Throughout this time, I enjoyed reading many entertaining and engaging stories that contributors submitted from the community.

To commemorate this RCC News milestone, we’re revisiting past stories and selecting those that inspire us. I chose “Strong Woman” by Susan Wong from the March 2014 issue because I think it’s an insightful, honest account of her experiences of being a woman, the multi-generational influences of other females in her family and the various ways that strength took shape among them.

This story resonates with me because I was raised by a strong mother and grandmother and grew up in a family alongside three feisty sisters. I also raised four daughters and encouraged them to be independent, responsible women.

Lisa Symons, RCC News advertising and distribution coordinator

While pregnant with my first child, I had a vivid dream of the first three significant women in my life. They stood in a pyramid shape, first my mother, then slightly to the left my older sister and, at the very bottom but a more dominant figure, my paternal grandmother holding a newborn baby.

I was facing them, and then I peered into my grandmother’s eyes. First they were bright, then her eyes began to fade and I sensed her spirit leaving me. I cried out, “Grandma, don’t leave!

Please stay!” I woke up crying and my husband came running to see what was wrong. That weekend I called grandma and we went for lunch. My prenatal counsellor interpreted this dream as a rite of passage. I was saying good-bye to my childhood and now entering motherhood.

Not until recently, I’ve realized how immensely these women have influenced my life. My grandmother lost her husband and eldest child very early on and raised two young sons herself. She found a way to get her sons to Canada for a better life. She supported them by caring for their families while they worked. She took care of herself at the senior home for over 20 years until she could not. Grandma passed away at the age of 102, still strong at heart, but her frail little body just had to rest.

by Susan Wong

Then there is mother. She came to Canada as a young wife. She did not speak a word of English and didn’t have family in Vancouver. She married my father and had my sister and brother within the first two years of marriage. There was no maternity or sick leave. She hadn’t the convenience of a laundry machine or dish washer. She took English lessons and learned to drive. She ran a large grocery store with dad and worked 15-hour days, every day. She supported her siblings when they came to Canada. She always took care of her friends and family. Mom has never asked for anything in return.

Last but not least, there’s my older sister. I used to think she was the weakest person on earth. But strength comes in different forms. When she is angry or disappointed she doesn’t show it. She remains silent. She rarely engages in an argument or a disagreement in hopes to maintain the peace.

Now this takes a lot of inner strength, which I admire.

Unlike my sister, I cannot keep anything inside. If there is input, then there has to be output. If there is injustice, I am there with protest. If I disagree on an issue, I’ll voice my opinion. If you’ve hurt me or my family, I’ll let you know and maybe even strike back. Actually, I’m born the year of the tiger and an Aquarius. Those that know me will describe me as funny, stubborn, fierce and a bit volatile. But the hardest part of this persona is how to manage it; when to purr, when to roar, or know when just to meow or say nothing at all.

Even as a young girl, I aspired to be physically, mentally and intellectually strong, independent of any man or person. I wanted “success.” I wouldn’t consider myself a hardcore feminist as I still dig the occasional chick flick and did enjoy Disney tales like Cinderella and Snow White. But my alltime favourite would have to be Mulan. She feels inferior born a daughter but desperately wants to show her family her devotion. So she disguises herself as a man, goes to war in place of her elderly father, saves her country, gets her man, and returns home to a loving and proud father. Now that’s a story I can relate to.

Over the years, my idea of a strong woman has evolved. I am now a mother of two young sons; I work from home, bake, clean, fold laundry, organize the family birthdays, take the kids to their activities, and pay all our bills online. I’ve kept my maiden name and hyphenated my children’s surnames. Am I that strong woman I aspired to be?

What I’ve learned is I can be a strong woman without these qualities I sought after. Neither my grandmother nor mother kept their maiden names or had a company car, but they are the most resilient, courageous and inspiring women in my life.

What they possess are a strong spirit and a giving heart. Due to their times or situation they did not have the freedom to choose as I do today.

I’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all the women I know: grandmothers, mothers, sisters, aunts, teachers, mentors and friends. Thank you to all of you for your wisdom, support, encouragement and love. All of

you have in your own way given me strength and the voice I have today. But I think for now, a meow will do. Happy International Women’s Day.

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February 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

The Seniors Connection

Seniors and income tax filing in B.C. Filing income tax is important for everyone in B.C. However, it can be challenging for some groups, including seniors.

Why is it important for seniors to file income tax?

Seniors generally have low income.

According to the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, “a large share of single seniors has incomes very close to the poverty line: 44 per cent report an after-tax income between $15,000 and $25,000.”

seniors to maintain their physical, mental and socio-emotional health.

What are the challenges for seniors to file income tax?

According to my own experience working with seniors, many do not know how to file income tax. The Canada Revenue Agency encourages income tax filing by computer.

However, many seniors have limited or no knowledge of the computer.

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

by Karen Lok Yi Wong

situation can consider filing their income tax with the help of the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), which is supported by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

Through this program, community organizations across Canada help you fill out and file income tax for free. Some organizations provide the service year-round, but most only during the income tax filing seasons in March and April. The service is While income tax can also be filed by paper, many find the form book- provided by volunteers who are either trained or have related education let complicated or cannot fill it in already, like accountants.

By filing income tax, seniors are because of different reasons. For more likely to get the tax credits example, they have poor vision and and benefits they are entitled to, can’t read the form, or their hands What are the challenges for such as Goods and Services Tax shake when writing so they can’t fill seniors to access the CVITP? (GST) credits and the Guaranteed in the form. They may turn to fam- It can still be challenging for some seniors to access the Community Income Supplement. If they do not ily and friends for help, but many file income tax, these tax credits do not have this option for support. Volunteer Income Tax Program. First, in many community organizations, and benefits will be cut.

They may consider paying for an income tax filing service, but many there are more clients than volunteers can serve. The resulting long waits To many seniors, these tax credits find the service is too expensive. can challenge some seniors, who may and benefits are survival income.

Seniors rely on their limited income What is the Community Volun- feel fatigued. It’s a good idea to provide tea, coffee, water and cookies to to pay for daily necessities, such teer Income Tax Program as rent and food, to survive. These Seniors and other people who have seniors while waiting. basic necessities are important for a modest income and a simple tax Second, because many seniors can’t travel to the income tax clinics, com功夫 munity organizations often provide outreach services. However, not many organizations have the volunteer resources to provide such outreach.

Cancer, Parkinson’s disease, depression, asthma, irregular menstruation, palpitations, cramps, headaches, low back pain, liver disease, kidney disease, arthritis, insomnia, stroke, various types of unsuitable treatment after-effects, spinal illness, adhesive capsulitis, Sciatica, Tennis elbow, Limb stiff etc. 癌症，帕金森病，抑鬱症，哮喘，经

期综合症，心悸，絞痛，頭痛，腰腿痛，肝病，腎病， 关节炎，失眠，中風及各種不當治療後遺症, 脊柱疾病 ，肩周炎，坐骨神經痛，網球肘，肢體僵硬等.

You will find that Kungfuyes QiGong treatment is miraculous.

Third, many immigrant seniors do not speak Canada’s official languages, English and French. Community organizations may have volunteers who can provide interpretation services but not many have the language resources. Community organizations and the Canada Revenue Agency should continue to consider ways to improve the program.

To find a Community Volunteer Income Tax Program, visit the CRA website http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/ tx/ndvdls/vlntr/clncs/vancouver-bceng.html.

Karen Lok Yi Wong is a social worker in B.C. working with seniors. She was the program coordinator at 411 Seniors Centre Society http://411seniors.bc.ca and lead the centre’s Community Volunteer Income Tax Program in 2017. That year, the program served more than 1,700 clients.

Happy Lunar New Year – 2018 Year of the Dog Gung Hey Fat Choy! Chuc Mung Nam Moi! Happy New Year! I hope that the Year of the Dog will bring you great health, happiness, and prosperity. Come celebrate with us on Saturday, February 24th as we welcome the BIA Lion Dancers to our office. Refreshments and snacks will be served.

Lunar New Year Gathering Location: MLA Adrian Dix Community Office (5022 Joyce St.) Time: Saturday February 24th 1pm-2pm (Lion Dancers arrive at 1:30pm) Spring Legislative Session The spring session of the BC Legislature will begin on February 13th. I am always happy to hear your thoughts and ideas for legislation and would welcome any suggestions you may have for the spring session.

Seniors’ Health and Wellness Fair, April 4th – We are looking for volunteers!

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help out with this year’s Seniors’ Health and Wellness Fair at Renfrew Park Community Centre. The fair will take place on Wednesday, April 4 from 10am to 2pm.

Each year I am proud to host the fair, and its success is largely thanks to the wonderful RPCC staff and volunteers. There are a variety of volunteer roles, including set up/close down, welcoming and registration, support of the lunch station, and much more on this exciting day.

If you are interested in volunteering with us for the Seniors’ Health and Wellness Fair, please contact my office at 604-660-0314 or email Adrian.Dix.MLA@leg. bc.ca We’d love to be of service to our community!

When you contact our community office, my staff and I will do our best we can to assist. Visit during our walkin hours (Monday to Thursday, 9am-4pm), or book an appointment by calling 604-660-0314.

Here’s a list of some of the free services our office offers: Advocacy – We will work hard to assist you with any issues you are having involving the provincial government departments, services, or ministries.

Information & Referral – Our office can find the right government contact or program. We can help you understand how program changes will affect you, your family, and your community. We also know the services available in our community and are happy to refer you to them.

Getting Connected – Our office offers free fax and internet access for government and communityrelated matters.

Free Space for Community Workshops and Meetings – We want to host your free workshop or meeting.

Contact us for more information.

Family Day – Monday, February 12 Our community office will be closed for Family Day on Monday, February 12th. We will re-open Tuesday, February 13th, and very much look forward to serving our constituents upon our return. We wish you and your loved ones a great Valentine’s Day and Family Day!

Read On!

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February 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners

How to keep your new year’s resolution 

by Tony Wanless

Right now, most people in the Renfrew-Collingwood neighbourhood have probably started resolutions for how they hope to behave this year. This is so common, someone once named January the “be-a-better-person” month.

Read On!

has a web page. You can:

 Read the articles

 Print worksheets http://renfrewcollingwood communitynews.com/category/ read-on/

Reading levels on this page

A resolution is an act or a series of acts that you will try to do or not do. Common resolutions are to get in better physical shape, stop a bad habit and be nicer to someone.

The problem with new-year resolutions is that they rarely last for long. Some 80%of resolution makers have failed by the second week of February. That means that most of you R-C resolution makers are already creeping up on the brink of failure.

Of course, that doesn’t have to mean the end of a resolution. In fact, it’s natural.

To make a resolution continue, you must turn it into a habit. That way it will exist much longer than a resolution that only lasts until some temptation gets your attention and kills it.

Habits are behaviours that are repeated regularly so that they become automatic. Bad habits and good habits start the same way – through repetition. To start a good habit, you decide what action is required, set a time to do it, write it down, repeat it and monitor it. Eventually, this repetition places the action in your brain or replaces some (in)action you are trying to stop.

For example, let’s say you want to do one of the most common new year’s resolutions: getting your finances in order, which means paying off debts and saving money. I used to write a personal-finance newspaper column and it was a common resolution that I heard at this time of year.

Financial problems are almost always about (bad) spending habits. There are cases of poverty where there just isn’t enough money coming in for even the basics, but for many people that isn’t the problem.

Instead, they have a habit of spending more money than they have. This is most often because they are in the habit of satisfying “wants” instead of taking care of “needs,” which aren’t nearly as interesting because they’re so familiar. Because it’s new, treating oneself to a want is more powerful than the boring practice of paying for needs like shelter, food, transportation and other basics.

We can blame these bad habits on advertising and easily available credit, but we are the people who practice them, so we are the people who have to change them.

Typically, good financial habits work like any other habit – though repetition of an act. Your bad habit is a result of repetition – to urges or advertising or whatever. In this case, you replace the foolish spending habit with a healthier saving habit.

Like any other habit formation, this is accomplished by planning and working the plan – repeating desired behaviours like first paying bills and then creating a saving system until they become automatic.

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February 2018

Eating Out in RC: Boteco Brasil

by Paul Reid

Boteco Brasil

2545 Nanaimo St. Call (778) 379-7995 For Reservations Open: Tues – Sunday for Lunch and Dinner Even on a dark and rainy Vancouver day, the bright and festive atmosphere of Boteca Brasil will transport you to someplace warm and cozy.

And if you are thinking of where to take your sweetie this upcoming Valentine ’s Day, Boteco Brasil will fit that romantic bill.

In Brasil, a ‘Boteco’ is place where you go for delicious food, lots of drinks, good music and hang out with friends. Boteco Brasil is where you can do just that - just what the RC area needs! On some nights your dinner at Boteco will be accompanied with live music . You will enjoy some classics of the ‘Música Popular Brasileira’ (well know as ‘MPB’), bossa nova, pop, pagode, samba and many classics of Brazilian music.

Yes, it was a rainy Sunday afternoon when my accomplice and I made this visit to Boteco. No live music at this time, but there was music and as mentioned, our spirits were uplifted, not only by the atmosphere, but by the friendly staff. I’ll add here too, during the sunnier months, one can sit outside on Boteco’s large patio - sweet as well. Probably RC’s best patio.

Back inside, we ordered some drinks. There are lots of fine ones to choose from: a variet of bottled beer, draft beer, wines, and some cool sounding cocktails. There is Cachaça.a Brazilian distilled spirit made from sugar cane. Also Caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail, made with cachaça, sugar and lime. So what did we two wild and crazy kids order? It was an orange juice for her and a Brazilian roasted coffee for me.

For the food, the accomplice ordered the Bobo de Camarao ($17): seasoned shrimps on a creamy stew made with red palm oil, cassava, coconut milk, celery and bell peppers. I was drawn to the Feijoada ($16): authentic Brazilian style black beans and pork stew served with basmati rice, sautéed kale, farofa, vinaigrette salsa and a slice of orange. We also ordered an appetizer of Coxinhas ($9) which are crispy potato-based dough pockets stuffed with shredded chicken and spices.

The Coxinhas arrived, along with a garlic infused sauce, and Mmm, no wonder these are described as Brazil’s favourite snack - really nice and tasty. the Bobo de Camarao, which my accomplice was sweet enough to allow me to try was equally impressive. The coconut taste of the sauce reminded me of some Thai dishes I have eaten.

My Feijoada was also good. As with everything else, you could tell that it had been prepared with love and all fresh ingredients. I wasn’t exactly sure how to go about arranging it all. Our very pleasant host explained that the farofa, which I would later learn is a toasted cassava flour mixture used on barbacued meat and hearty stews, can be sprinkled on top.

So basically, you can mix it all together, and boy, and girl, was it good - very nice and filling. I barely had room to finish off the accomplice’s Bobo de Camarao.

Now, it would be time for dessert, but as you now know - we were too full for dessert, BUT, there were some nice sounding ones: Bolo Prestigio ($6) a rich Brazilian chocolate and coconut cake with “beijino filling and brigadeiro” topping.

Also, Pudim De Leite Moca ($6) A rich and creamy flan topped with caramel sauce.

So there we have it - Boteco Brasil would be a good choice to take your sweetie, on Valentine’s, or any time, lunch or dinner. Until next time food fans - bon appetite.

Correction We mistakenly identified an open house for an off-leash dog park at the Collingwood Baptist Church in the December 2017 issue of the RCC News. This event was not scheduled and did not occur. We apologize for the error and any inconvenience this may have caused.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

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February 2018

Grandview-Collingwood Legion Branch 179 Update From left to right: ZONE COMMANDER: Bob Underhill (performed installation) SGT-AT- ARMS / CADETS: Hector Nicolson TREASURER / BURSARIES: Robert Smith SOCIAL ACTIVITIES: LD Voutour RECORDING SECRETARY: Jan Holt SPORTS: Mario Zupan 2 nd VICE / HONOURS & AWARDS/ZONE: Diane Janes PRESIDENT/ BY LAWS - Peter Salmon BUILDING: Jim Fergusson (behind) ARCHIVES / WEBSITE: Jack Reid PUBLICITY / FUND RAISING: Paul Reid MEMBERSHIP: Andrea Berneckas 1 st VICE / CHAIRMAN / NEW CHELSEA / ZONE: Gerry Vowles SICK & VISITING/GEORGE DERBY: Dusty Olenik January 16 marked the installation of Branch #179’s executive committee for 2018. Photo by Kate Dee of Branch 179 E

Renfrew / Collingwood

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North 

Broadway

Renfrew St.

Nanaimo St. E.33rd Ave.

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The Tipper Restaurant Ph: 604.873.1010

2066 Kingsway

E.41st Ave.

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Collingwood Insurance Ph: 604.438.9888

Kingsway K

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J.E.’s Alteration and Dry Cleaning Drop Off #4 3490 Kingswsay Ph:604.434.9677

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5750 Tyne Street

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E.29th Ave. Ea rle sS t.

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E.22nd Ave. K

Boundary Rd.

Ananda Bhavan Dosa Restaurant 2269 Kingsway Ph.604-336-5666 Web:anandabhavan.ca

Slocan St.

Grandview Hwy.

F E

F

First Avenue Dental 604.254.5040

#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

10

February 2018

Get Involved Temporary modular housing for the homeless at 4410 Kaslo – Next info session Tuesday, Feb. 6 Tuesday, Feb. 6 ; 4 – 7 pm First Hungarian Presbyterian Church, 2791 East 27th Avenue

The community is invited to the next information session to learn more and provide feedback about the proposal for temporary modular homes at 4410 Kaslo Street. City of Vancouver staff will present details of the development permit application submitted on Jan. 12, 2018.

In December 2017, city staff presented the proposal for a three-storey building of 50 homes for the homeless at this site. If approved, the building would be in place for up to five years, with the possibility to extend another five years.

Feedback collected at this session and online will inform the director of planning’s decision on the development permit.

臨時 組合房屋

資料概覽

確保每個人都有個家 溫哥華正處於房屋危機之中各區有超過2,000人表示自己無家可歸。無家可歸者不論男女老少都身心受困，因此溫哥華 市政府將繼續優先設法為市內的無家可歸人士提供安全、溫暖的住宅。 卑詩省政府在9月承諾撥款6,600萬元在溫哥華興建600個臨時組合房屋單位。這些撥款讓市府能夠在更多永久居所尚未 建成之前，先為無家可歸者提供住處，應付這個燃眉之急。 臨時組合房屋將建在市內各處的空地和未被利用的地塊。

Kaslo街4410號的臨時組合房屋構想概念: • 地塊上會興建一棟臨時組合樓房。 • 建築物高3層,提供50個開放式單身住宅。 • 所有住宅都是獨立單位,設有私人浴室及廚房。

NOOTKA ST

ATLIN ST

E 27TH AVE

KASLO ST

SLOCAN ST

• 方便輪椅通行的住宅在建築物中占有10%的比例。

4410 Kaslo St Renfrew Ravine Park

E 28TH AVE

E 29TH AVE 29TH AVE STATION

Slocan Park

VA N

NE

SS AV E

Park Board Open House: Still Creek Community Garden Relocation Thursday, Feb. 1 5:30 – 7:30 pm (drop by anytime) Slocan Community Hall, 2750 East 29th Avenue Share your thoughts on the proposed relocation of this garden to Slocan Park. Open house info and questionnaire available online Jan. 29 – Feb. 12. Learn more at Vancouver.ca/still-creek-garden-relocation.

1

Drop-In English Conversation Circle for Work Permit Holders Monday, Feb. 5, 6:30– 8:30 pm MOSAIC Head Office, 5575 Boundary Road, Vancouver Learn about Canadian workplace culture and practice workplace English. Meet new people and learn effective communication skills. More info Rey 604-438-8214 or rblasco@mosaicbc.org.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

FEBRUARY CULTURAL EVENTS IN RENFREW-COLLINGWOOD Tuesday, Feb. 13 Community Conversation Café 7 – 8:30 pm Collingwood Library 2985 Kingsway Free. Community members gather for coffee and conversation in a casual, welcoming environment. Children welcome! In partnership with the Vancouver Public Library.

Thursday, Feb. 15 Valentine and Chinese New Year‘s Eve Tea 1 -3 pm Collingwood Neighbourhood House Love is in the air! Enjoy calligraphy, Chinese tea and oriental snacks. Let’s celebrate Chinese New Year together!

Saturday, Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24 Social Culture Club 10 am to noon Collingwood Neighbourhood House Join neighbours in sharing or learning, knitting, crocheting and sewing skills. Bring your own materials. Refreshments are provided. Free. Contact Yoko at ytomita@cnh.bc.ca Friday, Feb. 23 Community Coffee House & Open Mic First Lutheran Church, 5745 Wales Street (entrance at 42nd Avenue) 7 – 9 pm Check out local musical talent in your community and meet up with friends and neighbours!

Refreshments and entrance by donation.

January 23 to April 5 Venus Rising: Paintings and Drawings Il Museo Italian Cultural Centre 3075 Slocan Street Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm Free

Donate Loblaws gift cards to support CNH community programs We hope you’ll consider donating $25 towards the meals and snacks Collingwood Neighbourhood House offers at no cost to you!

Loblaws has announced that as a result of a bread price-fixing scheme in its stores, it is now offering a free, $25 gift card to those who ever bought bread at Loblaws between Jan 1, 2002 and March 1, 2015. People will receive their gift card after registering here: https://www.loblawcard.ca/ .

Loblaws includes Extra Foods, No Frills, Real Canadian Superstore, Real Canadian Wholesale Club, Your Independent Grocery Store and Wholesale Club.

Many of CNH’s programs offer snacks or meals to participants but we always struggle with funding. We use Food Bank donations for some programs and charge small fees for others but these only cover part of our costs. Any financial donations are welcome! And, if you like, you may specify where you would like us to use your donation – in our youth, children, families or seniors programs, for example.

We would be deeply grateful if you would consider donating your $25 gift card to CNH. We’ve checked with Loblaws and they explained that once somebody registers for a card, they will receive the $25 gift card to use as they like – they can use it for their own groceries or donate it to a not-for- profit like CNH. If you choose to donate it to CNH, which is a registered charity, you’ll get a tax receipt from us for your donation. Thanks for considering donating your gift card to CNH.

For more information, please call CNH’s reception at 604-435- 0323.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

11

February 2018

What’s happening at your local library Collingwood Branch Library 2985 Kingsway 604-665-3953 CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS Early Readers Book Club – by registration Children will discover the thrill of reading books and enjoying activities with new friends. Grades K-3 Saturdays once a month: Feb. 3, Mar. 3 at 2 pm Write Now! Creative Writing for Kids – by registration Start writing and thinking creatively! Our fun writing activities will have kids writing stories and poetry in no time. Grades 3-7 Tuesdays once a month: Feb. 6, Mar. 6 at 3:30 pm Reading Buddies – by registration Reading Buddies pairs a teen volunteer with children in Grades 2 to 4 for reading practice.

Thursdays weekly: Feb. 22 – Apr 19 at 4 pm Lunar New Year Puppet Show – drop in Celebrate Lunar New Year with a fun puppet show and activity. Grades K-7 Saturday, Feb.17 at 3:30 pm Lego Block Party - drop in Meet new friends and break out the bricks for a building bonanza at the library. Grades K-7.

Wednesdays, twice a month: Jan 10, 24, Feb 7, 21, Mar 7,21 at 3:30 pm

PROGRAMS FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD Family Storytime - drop in Stories, rhymes and songs for the whole family.

Thursdays Jan.18 – Mar.15 at 10:30 am Babytime - drop in Songs, rhymes, lap play and books for baby.

Thursdays Jan.18 – Mar.15 at 11:30 am Toddler Box Party – drop-in We provide crayons, music and cardboard boxes of all sizes to play with and draw on; you provide the toddlers! Ages 1 – 3 Friday, Feb. 9 at 10:30 am

ADULT PROGRAMS ESL Conversation Circle Tuesdays, 7 – 8 pm, Feb. 6, 20, Mar. 6, 20 Wednesdays, 10 – 11 am, Feb. 14, 28, Mar. 14,28

Improve your spoken English skills. Learn about your community and Canadian culture while making new friends. Suitable for intermediate speakers.

One to One Computer Help This computer training is based on the questions you bring. You tell us what you want to learn, and we will work with you to improve your skills.

Personal laptops and tablets welcome! Call the 604-665-3956 in order to book your appointment at a day/time that is convenient to you!

Renfrew Branch Library 2969 E.22nd Ave. At Nootka 604-257-8705 CHILDREN & TEENS PROGRAMS Storytimes For parents and caregivers with young children.

Songs, rhymes and stories. Drop in.

Family Storytime (0-7 years): Saturdays, Feb. 3 – Mar. 24, 11:15 am Toddler Storytime (18 month – 3 years): Mondays, Feb. 5 – Apr. 30, 10:15 am Babytime (newborn – 18 months): Mondays, Feb. 5 – Apr. 30, 11:15 am Lunar New Year Puppet Show Celebrate Lunar New Year with a festive puppet show.

Wednesday, Feb. 7, 10:30 – 11 am Family Board Games Play with the library’s collection of board games and make new friends! This is a family program and children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Sundays, 1:30 – 4:30 pm Lego Block Party Break out the bricks for a building bonanza at the library. This is an unsupervised program and children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Drop in.

Wednesdays, 4 – 5 pm) Write Now! Creative Writing for Kids Kids, it is time to start writing and thinking creatively! Fun writing activities will have you writing stories and poetry in no time. For Grades 3-7.

Tuesday, Feb. 20, 3:30 – 4:30 pm Be the Hero: A Role-Playing Game Create your own character and join a group of adventurers as they go on their latest quest. With a bit of storytelling and teamwork, you could be the hero of your own story! For Grades 3-7.

Tuesday, Jan. 30, 3:30– 4:30 pm) Triple R Book Club A teen-led book club for students in grades 5, 6 and 7. Read your favourite books and discuss them with your friends. Registration ongoing.

Thursdays, Feb. 1 , 8, 15, 22, 4 – 5 pm

Afternoon at the Movies Join us every Friday at 3:30 pm for family friendly movies! Drop in.

Feb. 2: Tangled: Before Ever After Feb. 9: Open Season Feb. 16: Planes: Fire and Rescue Feb. 23: Winnie the Pooh

ADULT PROGRAMS ESL Conversation Circle Improve your spoken English skills in a supportive environment. Learn about your community and Canadian culture while making new friends. Suitable for intermediate and advanced speakers.

Saturday, Feb. 3 & 17, 2:30 – 3:30 pm Story Circle for Adults A drop-in program designed especially for adults with developmental disabilities, and their family, friends and caregivers. Join in an accessible, relaxed and fun community setting for stories, music and more!

Thursdays, Feb. 1 and 15, 10:15 –11:00am Review and Read Aloud Book Club in Mandarin - 朗讀與分享書友會(國語 Bring a book that touched you, give a brief review and read aloud the paragraphs that moved your heart. Once a month we share books on a different theme. Choose a book from the list provided or bring your own. February’s theme: Books That Influenced Me the Most.

Tuesday, Feb. 6, 10:15 am – 12:15 pm

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12

February 2018

Letter from Dery to Cathrien, 1958 It has been 60 years this year since Joy Hanser’s family immigrated to the Collingwood area from Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Joy recently translated this descriptive letter written by her mother to her sister-in-law in Amsterdam. Her clarifications are in parentheses.

Joy and Marianna do a lot of shopping, they are beginning to manage quite well in English, even speaking it to each other. Joy with a handsome Canadian accent that she has quickly acquired. She says, “I want to speak just like the other children at school.”

Aug. 14, 1958

Whether the education here is very different from Holland, I haven’t been able to determine yet in these few months; they don’t seem to have a lot of homework.

There were a few things I thought are very nice, I mean the way in which things are taught. Sports are very important, especially baseball. Summer holidays here are two months, which is pretty long considering we can’t yet take them on vacation.

Dear Cathrien, Happy birthday, best wishes for celebrating with the Mullers (my father’s sister and brother-inlaw, who were house‐hunting in the Netherlands). Wish we could send them a darling bungalow like they have here. Hope that we could some day own one, but that is not possible with our current salary. However, there are many people unemployed, so we are grateful.

You ask about prices here: in one week we have a good diet for nine people (our family of five immigrated with another family of four, with whom we shared housing for a time) with $50. Meat, eggs, fruit, lots of milk, etc. Phone bill included.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS Translated by Joy Hanser

Saturday our acquaintances from Seattle (the van Mouriks) are coming to get them for a 14-day stay, just Joy and Marianna, which should be a nice break for Cans of fruit are inexpensive, four cans of about them. They have a visa for the U.S.A. which allows them free half litre for 65 cents, two of apricots for 35 cents, a large tin of cubed pineapple for 39 cents, access until 1962. We ourselves can’t really think about that for and on top of that a bottle of whipping cream, this first year. quarter litre, for 38 cents. Ten oranges and a quarter watermelon for 25 cents. A pound of In the meantime we have received liver for 29 cents and two pounds of coffee for $1.55. But there are expensive things too, name- a letter from Jeanne and Cees, with photo; they would send the ly vegetables, with not much variety. Eggs are others, but we are still waiting for not expensive, three dozen small fresh from the those. Have you heard from them, Dery and her three daughters on the porch of their home on farm for $1.05.

Payne Street, c. 1960. Photo courtesy of Joy Hanser or have you been there? We are We have a Dutch baker here, as we don’t like Ca- very eager for letters, because the mail is considered an honoured nadian bread, you have to toast it. He sells such of us, and the five children were there for the items as rusks, chocolate and fruithail, and even person here at home, waited for with bated breath. Only writing back does become a bit of a whole day. Bill moved us in a rented truck in Peli cleaning wax. Our butcher is Dutch, too. knot, because we have so terribly much writing 95 degree heat; we were melting. Then we had He is cheaper than the Canadian butchers and one day of rain, and now it is warm again. Bill also sells a lot of other Dutch products, even rug to do, but also sewing and knitting. says that he has never experienced such a sumbeaters, but we haven’t needed those yet.

On top of that we have frequent visits from Bill mer before, actually tropical. van der Meer and his wife, whom we have no Oh, yes, and we have moved to a bigger and doubt already mentioned in our letters. They I’m stopping now because John wants to write cheaper house (5161 Slocan Street). Downstairs have helped us tremendously, and are still doing something, too. there is a basement where we can wash and dry that, whenever they can. (“Uncle Bill” picked laundry when it rains, and above that, dining us up from the train when we arrived, and Heartfelt greetings and wishes for a pleasant and living rooms, a big kitchen, two bedrooms transported all nine of us at once – how? – in birthday. and a bathroom. Above that, a storey with two his Volkswagen bug!

– to a hotel on Granville bedrooms and a large hall where you can store Street.) They also seem to enjoy our company, A birthday kiss from Dery. everything. It is a fairly old house, but has rebecause they are either on the way here or they cently been renovated and is meticulously Joy Hanser and her sisters attended Queen are here. That is very nice for us, because aside painted.

Alexandra, Norquay, Carlton, Grenfell and Windfrom them and Jack and Ann Brouwer we don’t know anyone yet. Bridge is our common passion. ermere schools in the space of five years. She has The neighbourhood we now live in is calm and moved back to this neighbourhood and has lived Even Aileen has learned it. pleasant, almost rural. We are close to one of here for 15 years now. the main streets in Vancouver, Kingsway, where there are all the stores we need 10 minutes’ walk We also receive a lot of help from the Brouwers.

During the move we had dinner there, all nine away.

13

February 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

2934 East 22nd Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5M 2Y4 Phone 604 434 7211 Fax 604 438 7563

You Can Make a Difference for Seniors Care & Affordable Housing in Vancouver The Three Links Care Non-Profit Society has been delivering quality care and housing services for seniors and families in the Renfrew-Collingwood neighborhood for 35 years

You can help shape the next 35 years by joining our Board of Directors Please consider applying for this rewarding volunteer position if you are:  Passionate about working with other professionals and share an interest in seniors care and affordable housing  Looking to gain experience on a well-established, non-profit Board of Directors in Vancouver  Interested in learning about governance, housing development and BC’s health care system  Have time to volunteer for approximately 6 meetings per year in Vancouver plus time for committee work (all meetings take place during non-working hours)

To apply for a position on the Three Links Care Society Board of Directors, please visit http://www.threelinks.com/get-involved/#form or contact Heather Carlson at hcarlson@threelinks.com.

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

604 257-8388 Centre: ext 1 Pool: ext 2 Fax: 604 257-8392 Website: www.vancouver.ca/renfrewrec or www.renfrewcc.com

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

Program Highlights

Family Day Hours of Operation Pool

Fitness Ctr

Centre Area

Sat

Feb 10

8:30am-4pm

9:30am-4pm

9am-5pm

Sun

Feb 11

1-5pm

1-5pm

10:30am-5:30pm

Mon Feb 12

1-5pm

1-5pm

Closed

Special Events Celebrate BC Family Day. Come Join us for an afternoon of family fun. We’ll have games, crafts face painting, balloon animals and a bouncy castle. This is a free event but please register as space is limited.

139209 Sa 12:00-3:00pm Feb 10 Free 2018 Chinese New Year will fall on February 16. It is the Year of the Dog according to Chinese zodiac. It will be a great chance to experience the traditional folk customs! There will be cultural displays Feb 17

Free

This is the time to celebrate love with your favourite person, friend or loved one. Menu: Boursin-Stuffed Chicken (this Boursin Cheese is a subtle robust blend of garlic and herbs), Three Cheese Scalloped Potatoes, Green Bean and Mushroom Medley, Red Velvet Cupcakes.

136484 We

12:00-2:30pm

Feb 21

$8.57/person

Feb 6-Mar 13

$60/4 sess

Participants will focus on their movement and coordination required for badminton. This will help improve their clearing, net drop shot, serve techniques, while introducing smashing. Rules on how to play half court single game will be reviewed. No session Feb 20, 27.

4:55-5:45pm

Feb 6-Mar 13

$60/4 sess

Shuttle III/IV—Badminton Lessons (6-18yrs)

This program will review and introduce advanced techniques for clearing, smashing, net drop and footwork. Participants will learn professional clearing, smashing, drop shot from rear corner footwork to cover full court, net drop shot, net kill, serve and rules on how to play a full court single game. Strategy and tactics will also be addressed in this program. No session Feb 20, 27.

142486 Tu

Sweetheart Luncheon (55+yrs)

4:00-4:50pm

Shuttle II—Badminton Lessons (6-18yrs)

142485 Tu

Lunar New Year Festival (All Ages)

12:30-3:00pm

This is a beginner program developed to teach proper racquet skills, grips and footwork. Participants will learn professional clearing techniques, net drop shot, serve and rules on how to play half court single game. No session Feb 20, 27.

142484 Tu

Family Day (All Ages)

136439 Sa

Badminton Lessons with Richard Le Shuttle I—Badminton Lessons (6-18yrs)

5:50-6:40pm

Feb 6-Mar 31

$60/4 sess

Adult Badminton Lessons (19+yrs)

Learn proper racquet skills, grips and footwork. Participants will learn professional clearing techniques, net drop shot, smash, serve, rules and strategies for badminton. No session Feb 20, 27.

142483 Tu

6:45-7:35pm

Feb 6-Mar 13

$64/4 sess

Lego WEDO 1.0 Robotics (6-12yrs)

Exciting and Fun introduction to Robotics with LEGO Education WeDo coding Software. Students will be able to build and program from a variety of Robots, featuring working motors and sensors, including a roaring lion, drumming monkey, alligator and many more, while exploring a series of cross-curricular theme based activities. Teamwork is encouraged in this STEM based program, as students develop their skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Repeat students are welcome and will go on to build new projects!

140813 Mo 3:45-5:15pm Feb 19-Mar 12 $100/4 sess

Workshops NEPP—Earthquake Preparedness (18+yrs)

We all witnessed the earthquakes in Nepal, New Zealand and Chile and saw the devastation caused. Living in Vancouver, we too could be faced with an earthquake - yet few of us take the steps to ensure we are prepared. This session covers what is required to develop your family emergency plan, how to conduct a "Home Hazard" Hunt and what to do when an earthquake strikes.

138893

We

7:00-8:00pm

Free

Wibit Inflatable Day in the pool

Saturday, February 10th, from 2:00pm–4:00pm

Come and join in the fun! *Regular admission rates apply

14

February 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH)

H IGHLIG H TS

To see CNH’s impact, consider the lives it has touched What is CNH’s impact in the community? It’s a question that’s often hard to answer, because the organization does so much, in so many different areas. CNH tries to make life better in our community by giving neighbourhood residents a place to belong and grow, but what exactly does that mean? To really see CNH’s impact, you’d have to consider the experience of each person whose life has been touched by CNH. Although it’s not possible to capture the experiences of every CNH participant, CNH Executive Director Jennifer GrayGrant recently gave one example of CNH’s impact on its program participants, in a letter she wrote to CNH supporters. Her letter tells the story of CNH Seniors program participant Peter Yap and his wife Linda. The story below is adapted from the letter.

The sparkly outfits and over-sized sunglasses scream Elvis but the dramatic hip gyrations, well, they’re a bit much for Peter Yap these days. Peter said, “I can’t do those Elvis moves anymore, so I improvise.”

Peter, a former heavy-duty mechanic for CN Rail, had long been a fan of karaoke. Around the time he retired that love of singing evolved into his own brand of Elvis and he started performing in public.

That led to gigs at shopping malls, community centres, retirement parties and weddings.

Seven years ago, when he and his wife Linda started attending CNH senior’s programs, Peter mentioned to the senior’s coordinator that he loved to perform, Elvis style. She seemed a little interested but when he broke into an acapella version of Elvis’ “Teddy Bear” she immediately booked him for a CNH event.

COMMUNITY LUNCH Collingwood Neighbourhood House invites you to lunch every Tuesday and Thursday. Full meal prices are $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, $5 for students and $3.25 for children under 12. Items can be purchased a la carte or “to go.”

February lunch menu Thursday, February 1 Chicken pot pie or veggie pie Salad Lemon cupcake Tuesday, February 6 Carrot chickpea and barley soup Hamburger or veggie burger Brown sugar cranberry tart Thursday, February 8 Beef or veggie Chow Mein Salad Sesame seed cookies

Since then, Peter has performed at various CNH celebrations and Collingwood Days. His wife Linda buys the fabric and designs his costumes, which are sewn by a friend. The two are regulars at CNH’s Community Lunch as well as Bingo, bus trips and of course karaoke. But the performing makes Peter happiest: “I love people come up to me and saying, ‘You made me happy’.”

Every day we see the quiet but dramatic differences that our programs, services and initiatives for seniors, children, teens, youth, adults and families from a variety of diverse backgrounds make in participants’ lives and in our neighbourhood.

Peter’s story has some unique features, but his experience at CNH is not unusual: every day many neighbourhood residents come to CNH and find a place to belong, grow, make friends, connect with their community, and contribute their talents. To learn more about what CNH has to offer, visit http:// www.cnh.bc.ca/programs/ and scroll down to view our 2018 Programs and Services Brochure (available in English, Chinese, and Spanish). Or drop by to visit us at 5288 Joyce Street. Our front desk staff will be happy to explain our programs and services.

This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Tuesday, February 13 Cream of mushroom soup Chicken or falafel sandwich Baklava Thursday, February 15 Baked chicken or eggplant parmesan Scalloped potatoes Salad Chocolate pudding Tuesday, February 20 Pepper pot soup Salad Quinoa wrap with roasted veal Banana chocolate cake Thursday, February 22 Spaghetti with meat balls / pasta primavera Garlic bread and Caesar salad Almond cookies Tuesday, February 27 Vegetarian chili soup Tacos Salad Carrot bran muffin

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

15

February 2018

Michael Radano is enjoying his career with MOSAIC, a charity that has been serving immigrant, newcomer and refugee communities in Greater Vancouver for the past 40 years. Mosaic recently moved. There new home is right here in Collingwood, at 5575 Boundary Road, in the Wall Centre Central Park.

with the City of Vancouver regarding a future home for MOSAIC had been ongoing for a dozen years, with the Wall Centre Central Park site confirmed in 2013.Michael confirms that MOSAIC is pleased to be in the Collingwood area which allows it to better serve its clients both in Vancouver and Burnaby.

The organization currently manages a $20 million plus budget annually with more than 300 staff, 450 volunteers and 300 contractors! Services are delivered from 26 client-accessible sites and include settlement assistance, English language training, employment programs, interpretation and translation, counseling services, and community outreach for families and individuals. This includes children, youth and seniors; the LGBTQ and temporary foreign worker communities.

Michael is originally from Mauritius, a small island nation off of the the southeast coast of Africa. He moved to Canada in 1981 and later received his MBA from Simon Fraser University & Certified Association Executive designation from CSAE. Before he was with Mosaic, Michael was CEO of the Society of Translators & Interpreters of BC.

There is so much that Mosaic offers: settlement services, employment services, English classes, counseling services, interpretation and translation services. Programs like CultureFit Training help newcomers to make the most of their skills, education and experience. This type of training is designed to help newcomers to overcome the most common barriers that they will face in finding and keeping employment.

MOSAIC’s new 23,000 square foot space includes over 100 staff offices and work stations, a large community room, a welcome centre, eight meeting rooms, a computer lab and a child-friendly family counselling space. Discussions l Chinese New Year Lion Dance – Saturday February 24, 2018 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

All businesses are invited to participate in the Traditional Lion Dance. A Lion dance team will come to bless your business. The parade route is from Boundary Road to Rupert and then along Joyce to Wellington. Look for a flyer to be delivered to all the businesses. To sign up please contact the CBIA office 604.639.4403 or email angela@shopcollingwood.ca

Complete parade schedule will be posted on social media by February 20th, 2018. See ad in this paper. l Collingwood Days 2018 - May 26, 2018@ GASTON PARK – 15 th Anniversary Sponsorship Opportunities, International Marketplace and Food Court vendor

Now with Mosaic, his role is Director of Employment & Language Services serving both the general public and new comers. What does Michael love most about working with Mosaic? “I love the chance to pay it forward as I received a lot of help from immigrants and fellow Canadians when I arrived 30+ years ago. Michael and his wife have three children. He loves to golf and travel. He also spends quite a bit of time mentoring start-ups and graduate students.

Michael says, “I would like to acknowledge the dedicated team of employment & language services professionals who operate and serve clients at the WorkBC & LINC Language centres at Broadway and Commercial.

MOSAIC looks forward to serving all of the newcomers in the Collingwood area, so please drop by.”

and Volunteer application are online. www.collingwooddays.com Call out to local maritial art schools, dance, music, performers and bands we want you to be a part of our largest community event of the year. Contact Angela for more information on how you can participate. l Collingwood BIA Board Members Needed We have a few positions available on our board of directors and various committees and invite all property owners and businesses owners to join the board. We meet monthly during the lunch hour every second Wednesday. Call or email angela@shopcollingwood.ca for more information. Together we can make Collingwood the Place to BE.

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16

February 2018

Don Davies MP Vancouver Kingsway

Chúc MØng Næm M§i Happy Lunar New Year!

Wishing you a Prosperous & Healthy Year of the Dog.

Venus Renfrew Ad-P1-Press

TEMPORARY MODULAR HOUSING COMMUNITY INFORMATION SESSION FOR TEMPORARY MODULAR HOUSING

年年有餘 歲歲平安

Community Office 2951 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5R 5J4 604-775-6263 | Don.Davies@parl.gc.ca

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Please join us as the City, VAHA and BC Housing host a Community Information Session about Temporary Modular Housing proposed for 4410 Kaslo Street. The Vancouver Affordable Housing Agency (VAHA) has applied to the City of Vancouver for permission to develop on this site.

Drop by to learn more about the project and speak with staff from the City, BC Housing, VCH and the non-profit housing operator Atira.

Date: February 6, 2018 Time: 4 – 7 pm Location: First Hungarian Presbyterian Church, 2791 East 27th Avenue, Vancouver

DonDavies.ca

V R January 23–April 5, 2018 Professional artist group Anna Dubois • Sandrine Pelissier O 7:00PM Tuesday, January 23

Collingwood lion dance

celebration Saturday Feb. 24

11am to 2pm

F A: Michael Brouillet, Maureen Conly, Anna du Bois,

Boundary to Rupert on Kingsway

David Huggard, Elizabeth Kozlowski, Julie Pappajohn, Sandrine Pelissier, Catherine Schechter, Brian Uhryniuk, Joanne White, Sian Woodward

& Joyce St.

3075 Slocan Street, Vancouver, BC www.italianculturalcentre.ca Tel: (604) 430-3337

H Tuesday–Saturday 10:00AM–5:00PM

Collingwood

Call the BIA to have your business participate 604.639.4403