February
COMMUNITY NEWS
2021
RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com
St. Mary’s students take a stand against racism on Black Shirt Day by Mark Mogatas Theo Mogatas is an 11-year-old from Vancouver and a student at St. Mary’s Elementary School who was verbally assaulted with racist comments after soccer practice. Theo shared his story with Anti-Racism Coalition (ARC) Vancouver and took part in #BlackShirtDay held on January 15 to raise awareness of the ongoing struggle faced by Black and racialized Canadians. January 15 is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. St. Mary’s school was one of the many schools in the lower mainland that participated in Black Shirt Day. All of the students came out in black shirts to shine a light on acceptance and to support Black and racialized people. One of the best actions observed throughout the school were the conversations that took place in the class and spread through the halls out to the playgrounds and into the homes of families. Having these conversations at home may seem challenging; however, there are many resources that families can draw from. According to the PBS Teachers Lounge, here are basic guidelines when talking about race with your children: St. Mary’s students took part in Black Shirt Day on January 15. Photo by Mark Mogatas St. Mary’s students took part in Black Shirt Day on January 15. Photo by Mark Mogatas
Collingwood Corner: Royal visit to Carleton Page 3
Coping with COVID: Have a snow day Page 7
1. Examine your own understanding of race.
Eating Out in RC: Dami Sushi and Korean Restaurant Page 8
Continued on page 2
Happy Lunar New Year Page 9
2
February 2021
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Black Shirt Day - Continued from page 1 2. Become comfortable with terminology and familiar with how certain concepts are used. 3. When your child brings up a topic related to race, don’t be afraid to keep the conversation going. 4. Find opportunities to ask questions. 5. Let children take the lead. 6. Involve your children in activities to help them learn about their own cultural, racial and ethnic backgrounds. 7. Help your children to think critically. 8. Recognize your child’s limits and know when to stop. Depending on age and attention spans, conversations with children about these topics may only last a minute or two. 9. Start a book club or conversation group with other parents who are in-
terested in learning how to talk with their children about race. 10. It’s OK to make mistakes! On Black Shirt Day, January 15, Education Minister Jennifer Whiteside released a joint statement. The government will be investing in a new anti-racism campaign to make B.C. schools safe and inclusive for all children. St. Mary’s School has provided funding for more library resources that reflect anti-racism, multiculturalism and diversity so students can see and learn about people who reflect different cultures represented in the school. Mark Mogatas is a Grade 4 teacher at St. Mary’s School.
One day at soccer practice I was with my friends from my team and one kid came up to me and called me the n-word five times. I was shocked that he would say that. I thought he said something else, but he kept on saying it, so I just lost control of my feelings and threw my water bottle at him. My friends saw what happened and pulled me back and told me to calm down. I was impressed that they stood up for me and told the kid to never say that again and told him to back off. I felt happy when they stood up for me, but I was still mad because that kid called me the n-word for no reason. Black Shirt Day is about treating others how you want to be treated, and right now I don’t think people are really doing that. Everyone makes mistakes. Sometimes you’re just not thinking straight, and I am saying that because everyone Mark Mogatas with son Theo. Photo by Daniel Bergson has made poor choices. There has been a lot of hate going around and some people think that’s alright to do that. respect and hate among those people who are Black. Everyone should be fair, People are getting killed and injured, and I don’t know why some people think that’s respectful and not hurt each other. the right choice to make. Everyone is a human, so treat everyone equally. I think #BlackShirtDay will really make a difference in telling people this is wrong. ~Theo Mogatas, first published @arc. Just because you’re one skin colour does vancouver not mean you can treat others with dis-
3
February 2021
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Collingwood Corner: Prince Edward’s visit to Carleton by Loretta Houben
With the fate of Carleton school hanging in the balance, I thought it would be good to look back at a few unknown highlights in its long history. The Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VIII who abdicated in December 1936, took a two-month tour of Canada in 1919. He ended with a visit to Vancouver in September 1919, before heading to Victoria. He loved the West and bought a ranch in Alberta, which he kept until 1962. On his visit here, HRH Prince of Wales speaking on the grounds of Sir Guy Carleton Elementary. which included a dinner and Photos from the Vancouver Archives dance downtown on September 22, a visit to Hastings Mill and Stanley Park, and a trip to New Westminster, he stopped at Carleton School, where thousands of people thronged the huge school yard which fronts Kingsway to hear him. Prince Edward was extremely popular, and he loved the crowds so much, his right hand was nearly shaken off. His doctor advised him to desist from hand shaking on his second day here in order to avoid injury. Why the Prince wound up making a speech at Carleton and what he spoke about is a mystery. I’ve searched the VancouA large crowd gathered to hear HRH Prince of Wales fills Carleton’s school grounds. ver library archives and read about his visit at Newspapers.com online, but didn’t discover anything further.
chefhyve
Loretta Houben enjoys solving puzzling mysteries in the Collingwood area, where she has lived for 55 years.
THANK YOU! to all who advertise with the RCCNews
For over 20 years you have been providing the Renfrew-Collingwood community with a voice!
A mini food hall offering 3 simple & healthy menus: Grill + Salads + Wraps * Fish + Chips * Desserts + Snacks $3 DAILY LUNCH SPECIAL
Add soup of the day or fries and iced tea to any main dish for $3.
Discover how our lunch program can keep your company, school or hospital safe.
(Noon - 3PM)
chefyve.ca/nest
Open daily: Noon - 9PM (or until we run out of the day’s fresh batch)
2525 Kingsway Next to Beefway Meats
FRESHNESS GUARANTEED!
778-858-5070
chefhyve.ca @chefhyve
No freezers, microwaves or can openers.
Now offering Contactless Delivery. Order and Pay Online. Order Delivery Or Carry Out
Phone: 604-437-1717
Website: www.papajohns.ca #300-3320 Kingsway, Vancouver Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11AM-10:45PM Friday-Saturday: 11AM - 11:45PM
4
February 2021
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.
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
What’s happening at your local library
Paul Reid: staff writer and layout coordinator Lisa Symons: sales and distribution coordinator Julie Cheng: editorial coordinator
Contributors: Daniel Bergson, Eda Ertan, Julie Cheng, Karen Vanon, Loretta Houben, Mark Mogatas, Paul Reid, Sophia Han, Theo Mogatas
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
Winter online events VIRTUAL STORYTIMES
by Karen Vanon
Facebook Live Storytime Join your favourite children’s librarians on Facebook for a live stream of songs, rhymes and stories for young children of all ages and abilities to enjoy at home. Facebook.com/vancouverpubliclibrary Weekdays @ 10:00– 0:15 am Toddlertime Storytime on Zoom* An interactive program for toddlers and their grown ups. Have fun while learning rhymes, songs, fingerplays and stories from the comfort of your own home. For ages 18 months to 3 years. Visit vpl.ca for times and to register Babytime on Zoom* Babies and their caregivers will enjoy this interactive online program. Join a VPL Librarian and other caregivers for our online Babytime on Zoom! Learn rhymes, songs, bounces, fingerplays and stories from the comfort of your own home. For babies ages newborn to 18 months. Visit vpl.ca for times and to register Virtual Storytime in French | L’heure du conte virtuelle Tune in on Facebook and YouTube for French songs, rhymes and stories in to enjoy with your children at home. For young children of all ages and abilities. Saturday, February 6 @ 10:00 am–10:15 am Virtual Storytime in Cantonese | 網上粵語故事時間 Tune in on Facebook and You-
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
5
February 2021
Tube for Cantonese songs, rhymes and stories to enjoy with your children at home. For young children of all ages and abilities. Saturday, February 13 @ 10:00 am– 10:15 am
SCHOOL AGE KIDS Write Now! Online* Kids, it is time to start writing and thinking creatively! Our fun writing activities will have you writing stories and poetry in no time. This 6 week series are appropriate for both advanced writers and beginners. For Grades 3 to 7. Thursdays, February 4 to March 11 @ 3:45–4:45 pm Virtual Early Readers Book Club: Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea!* Discover the thrill of reading and take part in online activities with other kids. For Grades 1 to 3. Tuesday, February 16 OR Friday, February 26 @ 3:45 pm–4:45 pm *Register at vpl.ca
TEENS Teen ELL Conversation Circle Make friends and practice speaking English together. We play games and learn one new word or phrase every time. Wednesdays, February 10, 24, March 10 @ 4:00–5:00 pm
Virtual Teen Book Club: Hot Dog Girl Looking for a great new read and some amazing conversation? Or maybe do you want to share all your feels for the characters you loved and hated? Come talk about today’s latest and greatest YA books with other teens at our Virtual Teen Book Club! Thursday, February 18 @ 4:00–5:00 pm
ADULTS Connection to Kith and Kin Online* Knowing where we come from connects us to land and culture, and empowers us to make changes. At Connection to Kith and Kin Online, experts help Indigenous participants search online records for family documents. Tuesdays @ 2:30–4:30 pm (Re)Reads: The Count of Monte Cristo* Chilly evenings are the perfect time for cozy books and chats. Dust off an old favourite or borrow the ebook from the library (no waiting lists for these titles!) and join this lively conversation. Tuesday, February 2 @ 6:30–7:30 pm
how to access statistical information sources and plan for your small business using Statistics Canada data. Thursday, February 4 @ 2:00–3:30 pm Register: siic@vpl.ca Chinese Thursday Night Book Club (in Mandarin) 星期四中文讀書會(國 語) Love reading books in Chinese and want to share your thoughts and experiences with like-minded folks? Join our Chinese Thursday Night Book Club! Every month we read a book and meet once to engage in lively discussions of popular fiction and non-fiction. Conducted in Mandarin with Cantonese support. Thursday, February 4 @ 6:30–8:30 pm Register: programs.diann@vpl.ca For more information: Website: vpl.ca Telephone: (604) 331-3603 Email: info@vpl.ca
Finding Business Data on the Statistics Canada Website Do you want to learn about business data sources and how to find information on the Statistics Canada website? Hear from Statistics Canada representatives as they deliver a tour and live demonstration on how to access the information on their website. Discover
RENFREW PARK COMMUNITY COMPLEX 2929 East 22nd Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5M 2Y3
Complex Office: 604 257-8388 ext 1 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.
Family Day Hours of Operation Mon, February 15th, 2021 Pool Fitness Center Centre Area 6:30am-2:00pm 7:30am-11:00am Closed Please plan your visit, you can book up to 3 days in advance. For the program information please go to vancouver.ca/ recreation or contact the office at 604 257-8388, ext 1 for the most up to date information.
If you are sick, feeling unwell, or displaying any signs or symptoms of the Flu or COVID19, please stay at home and contact medical professional for assistance. Please practice good hand hygiene and good respiratory etiquette. Masks are mandatory in our facilities at all the times with the exception of those under the age of 12. Masks may be temporarily removed when participating in sports and fitness .
Community Lunch Program (All Ages)
Meals include a hot entree, salad or side dish, dessert, coffee or tea. Lunch can be bought in person with cash /credit card or on line with credit card, limit of 4 per person. Limited number of lunches available. Fri Feb 5– Mar 26 12:00-1:00pm $5/adult/seniors Price listed per lunch per week. $3.57/child/youth Programs subject to change.
Foot Care Clinic (55+yrs)
Renfrew Park Community Association Annual General Meeting
We hope that you will attend our AGM to meet our current board members, elect new ones and find out about the accomplishments of this past year and goals for next year. All members 18 and over are eligible to vote. Bring your current RPCA membership card (loaded onto your OneCard). If you do not have a membership card, please register for your free RPCA membership. #292656
Saturday, March 27th 12:00pm-2:00pm
Osteofit (55+yrs)
Winter registration for Centre programs has already started. Go to recreation.vancouver.ca to register. Badminton Program With Richard Le Shuttle I (6-8yrs) 303639 Sun Feb 14-Mar 14 9:15am-10:10am
$85/5 sess
Shuttle I/II (6-18yrs) 303640 Sun Feb 14-Mar 14 10:25am-11:20am
$85/5 sess
303646 Tue Feb 16-Mar 9
$68/4 sess
3:50pm-4:45pm
Shuttle II/III/IV (6-18yrs) 303641 Sun Feb 14-Mar 14 11:35am-12:30pm
$85/5 sess
303647 Tue Feb 16-Mar 9
$68/4 sess
5:00pm-5:50pm
Nancy KF Lee Have your toe nails cleaned and cut safely by a registered and certified foot care nurse. Manage your callus, corns, diabetic feet, fungal and ingrown nails. Foot assessment and teaching also provided to ensure healthy feet! Please bring a large towel. Please phone in for your 30 minute session. 604-257-8388 ext 1. Please request a receipt from the foot care nurse. Registration must be done one day prior to the appointment date. Mon Feb 8 12:30pm-4:20pm $42/30 min sess Berdjis Bahrami This class focuses on improving strength, posture, balance and agility through the use of functional exercises, agility activities, resistance training and appropriate stretches.
303600 Tue Feb 16-Mar 9
10:30am-11:25am
$23/4 sess
Hatha Yoga (19+yrs) Hisae McMichael For people who have moderate experience doing Yoga and are looking to build on previous class work. We work on moderate to intermediate poses to relieve you from muscle pain and stiffness, to improve circulation and overall better health. Many students find they sleep better at night and have increased energy levels during the day. Please note participants are to bring their own Yoga Mats and other equipment. 305893 Sat Feb 13-Mar 13 9:30am-10:45am $43.75/5 sess — Adult $40/5 sess — Senior Prices do not include tax, if applicable.
6
February 2021
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Th e S e n i o r s C o n nection
Why Choosing to Move is a smart move in 2021 by Eda Ertan How many times do you promise to “go to the gym” or “walk more,” but you haven’t been able to get started or keep it up? Making a change to become more active can be tougher than it seems. It’s hard to do alone and without support. Being active is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your overall health. Being active can help you feel better – and live longer.
Choose to Move in 2021! It’s a great year to make a difference in your life with the support of an activity coach and community of seniors who are on the path of improving their health. Would you like to improve your health, move more and learn more about health with the educational
@shopcollingwood
Shopcollingwood.ca
That’s why the Choose to Move program was developed. It’s a science-based approach to help you introduce the habit of physical activity into your daily life in ways that make sense for you.
Choose to Move is free and flexible and provides you with the motivation and support to become more active. The program can help you to integrate activity into your daily routine, meet new friends and make positive changes! Choose to Move is great for anyone age 55 and older that wants to become active, regardless of ability.
On-going programming: For information and registration Call 604.445.1773
components of Choose to Move program in 2021? This unique coaching program is offered at Collingwood Neighbourhood House and you can join via Zoom or phone to attend the group meetings to be part of a community to support your progress. If you like to receive more information about the program, call Eda at 604-445-1773 or email eertan@cnh.bc.ca.
Happy Lunar New Year
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
7
February 2021
Coping with COVID: Have a snow day Stay on track with cross-country skiing by Julie Cheng Feeling cooped up with the provincial COVID restrictions and the non-stop Vancouver rain? When I used to be cooped up all day with my young kids, I’d hand them off to my husband at 6 pm and escape by myself for a night ski at Hollyburn Ridge on Cypress Mountain. Often when it was raining down here, it’d be snowing up there.
stress. I find the combination of exercise and fresh air gives me a good night’s sleep. Best of all, crosscountry skiing is easy on the knees and joints.
I don’t mean downhill skiing or snowboarding, but the immersion-with-nature experience of cross-country skiing.
Sport for all ages The whole family can enjoy cross-country skiing.
Each winter more than 2.7 million Canadians and 240,000 Vancouverites take to cross-country trails, according to the Canadian Ski Council (Facts + Stats 2017–18). A winter workout Cross-country skiing is a great way to stay energized and keep fit while enjoying the outdoors. It’s a whole-body winter sport that improves circulation, strengthens the immune system, detoxifies the body and relieves
My youngest was three when she started. We’d head to Hollyburn Lodge for a hot chocolate and vegetarian chili to warm up. Just remember to It’s a breathtaking view from Hollyburn’s Powerline trail to Vancouver Island. bundle up with layers Photos by Julie Cheng and keep everyone’s hands and feet warm and dry. sled and get a great workout at the same time. Many older Enthusiasts pull their toddlers in a special skiers who fly by me are in terrific shape for their age.
In town for a concert, weekend getaway or sports event? Our nostalgic neighbourhood 2400 Motel offers great budget accommodation. The 2400 Motel on Kingsway is a Vancouver classic, a drive-in motor court offering units with kitchens or cozy motel style rooms. We are pet-friendly and have nice lawns and open areas to walk your pet.
It’s easy to start learning with classic cross-country skis – just think walking/gliding on skis in groomed tracks. Once you become more advanced, you may want try skate skiing, which can be an even better cardio workout. Nature’s magic The quiet swish of skis over snow is one of the great joys of winter. It’s peaceful and rejuvenating to wind along mountain trails and breathe in the fresh forest air. The scenery can be breathtaking. I always end my ski on Cypress by going down the Powerline trail, where, on a clear day, you can see all the way to Vancouver Island.
Featuring: • Free Wireless Internet • Free Parking • On major transit route and near Skytrain
One afternoon, the clouds lifted and the sun peaked out, revealing Nanaimo in the distance. The sun glowed red then disappeared over the horizon. It was magical.
• 10 minutes from Metrotown • 15 minutes to Downtown Vancouver • Long term stay rates available Cross-country skiing an easy way for beginners to enjoy snow sports.
Call and Reserve Today! 2400 – Kingsway
Vancouver BC V5R 5G9 www.2400motel.com
Tel: 604-434-2464
Toll-Free: 1-888-833-2400 reservations@2400motel.com
As I drove down the mountain, I slipped below the clouds and back into the dreary city. But I wasn’t feeling cooped up anymore.
Local cross-country ski trails are found on Hollyburn Ridge’s nordic area on Cypress Mountain — a 30- to 40-minute drive from Vancouver. There are 19 kilometres of trails for beginner to expert skiers, including 7.5 km of trails lit for night skiing. These days you need to purchase tickets and ski rentals online. Visit cypressmountain.com/cross-country-skiing.
8
Taking out in RC:
February 2021
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Dami Sushi and Korean Restaurant
The following is a paid advertisement by Adrian Dix, MLA for Vancouver/Kingsway
by Paul Reid
Dear Neighbours,
Dami Sushi and Korean Restaurant 3280 East 22nd Avenue Phone 604.431.8887 Delivery via Ubereats.com
I recognize how incredibly challenging 2020 was for everyone. COVID-19 has dramatically changed our province and the world and pushed us to work together and adapt to a “new normal.” We have done tremendous work in B.C. to stop the spread of COVID-19 because of your unwavering support and sacrifice. I know it has not been easy for community members who look forward to gathering and celebrating at the end of the year. I thank you sincerely again for your extraordinary efforts and am hopeful for what’s to come in 2021.
Open Monday to Sunday, 11-9 pm
Greetings food fans. Welcome to another segment of Taking out in RC, our COVID-19 version of Eating out in RC. We’d like to remind folks that just because there’s a global pandemic is no reason not to continue enjoying all of RC’s incredible local food outlets. Even if dining-in is not curently your Dami recently opened here in RC. Photo by Julie Cheng thing, you can always order for pick-up or delivery. That’s what I did here with RenfrewCollingwood’s newest addition to its’ culinary crown - Dami Sushi and Korean Restaurant. Dami celebrated its’ grand-opening this past January and already, the reviews are coming in that Dami offers quality food at affordable prices. Their dishes are inspired by modern and traditional Korean and Japanese cuisine. I was quite taken aback by the sheer size of Dami’s menu. There are actually two full size menus at Dami – a Japanese menu and a Korean menu. Either one on it’s own would be considered quite extensive, so to be able to produce everything on both menus must be quite a feat. But, Dami did it. In just 15 minutes my order to go was ready.
The Gamja-Tang hot pot is a pork back bone soup with Chinese cabbage, onion, green onion, potato and perilla seed.
From the Korean menu I ordered the Gamja-Tang hot pot. This is a pork back bone soup with Chinese cabbage, onion, green onion, potato and perilla seed *with rice (29.88). This soup was HUGE and was enough for about four people. I believe you will find this soup completely delicious and the pork is of the melt in your mouth variety. Also from the Korean menu, in the Griddle section, I ordered Bulgogi - thinly sliced beef marinated in a special Korean barbecue sauce (17.88). I have always loved bulgogi and if you have yet to try it Dami! Really good stuff.
Bulgogi: thinly sliced beef marinated in Korean barbecue sauce.
There is too much to you tell you about Dami, but as usual I will urge you to go taste for yourself. The service was excellent; the food was fresh, delicious and way beyond what one makes at home; affordable, and within your grasp. I recommend it. Bon appetit.
All events and social gatherings are suspended until Friday, February 5 at midnight. At that time, restrictions will be reviewed and updates on the guidelines will be provided by Dr. Bonnie Henry, the Provincial Health Officer. The schedule and live feed for media briefings are available on the BC Government Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment or on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/user/ProvinceofBC. For non-health related information and services over the phone, please dial 1-888-COVID19 (1-888-268-4319) between 7:30AM – 8:00PM. Translation service is also available in 120 languages. To all Renfrew-Collingwood business owners, community service providers and groups, and volunteers, I see you and I thank you for your time, commitment, and work to ensure our community members are safe and supported during the pandemic and beyond. My community office will continue to provide services for constituents via phone and email. Please leave us a voicemail at 604-660-0314 or we are best reached at adrian.dix.mla@leg.bc.ca, and we will get in touch with you as soon as we can. You can also visit us on our website at www.adrian.dix.mla.bcndpcaucus.ca .
So what’s nice about Dami is that you can go full Korean, but then, maybe because your spouse or your kids or even you must have some sushi rolls as well - Dami! You can get it all right here. From the Special Rolls section we ordered the Fantastic Roll - crab meat, avocado, prawn tempura, spicy tuna, yam flakes and spicy mayo sauce (9.88). It was, as the name, implies - fantastic!
With a vaccine available, I know that we will eventually be able to get back to hugging our family and friends, attending events, playing sports, travelling, and doing all that we have eagerly been waiting to do. For more information and regular updates on B.C.’s COVID-19 Immunization Strategy, please visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/ gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-responserecovery/covid-19-provincial-support/vaccines. In the meantime, I ask for your continued patience and to follow all the Provincial Health Orders. Please practice safe social distancing, staying home especially if you are sick, engaging in essential travel only, washing your hands regularly, and wearing a mask in an indoor public setting, unless you are exempt.
Dami is located at 22nd and Rupert street.
Wh o o p s !
Our apologies to Adrian Dix and our readers for accidentally printing an outdated message in our January issue. We return you to his actual message for February 2021 >>>
基於抗疫措施，本辦事處暫時只提供電郵及電 話服務，如需協助請電郵adrian.dix.mla@leg. bc.ca或致電 604-660-0314 留言。詳盡及最新 資訊，請遊覽辦事處網頁 at www.adrian.dix.mla. bcndpcaucus.ca I hope this finds you and your loved ones well! Take care. Sincerely,
Adrian Dix, MLA Vancouver-Kingsway
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Read On!
9
February 2021
A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners
CELEBRATING THE LUNAR NEW YEAR
has a web page. You can: Read the articles http://renfrewcollingwood communitynews.com/category/ read-on/
by Sophia Han For Chinese people, the year starts with the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival. This year, Chinese New Year starts on Friday, February 12. In China, this is a holiday that lasts for one week, but it is also celebrated in places where many Chinese people live. Every Lunar New Year is associated with an animal sign. For 2021, the animal sign is the Ox. People born in 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985 and 1997 are Ox people because an Ox year occurs every 12 years. Ox people are considered hard-working, honest and dependable.
Reading levels on this page UPPER INTERMEDIATE LOWER INTERMEDIATE BEGINNER
Lunar New Year 2021 is the Year of the Metal Ox. Photo of sculpture by Joe Fafard on Georgia street. By Sophia Han
Traditionally, the Lunar New Year is a time for families to be together and eat special foods such as fish, dumplings, and wheat noodles called “longevity noodles.” People believe that if you eat these noodles, you will have a long and happy life. In Chinese culture, red is considered an auspicious colour, so people often wear red clothes during the holiday. People also decorate their homes with red pieces of paper with traditional Chinese sayings and give children gifts of money in red paper envelopes. It is common for adults to give each other mandarin oranges and anything gold-coloured (such as chocolates wrapped in gold paper or sweets in gold-coloured boxes). Some things are considered unlucky to do during the Lunar New Year. Washing your hair is considered unlucky because it suggests that you may wash away good fortune. It is also considered unlucky to sweep or break an object.
Red lanterns are a common decoration during the Lunar New Year.
Read On!
If you have a friend who celebrates the Chinese New Year, you can greet them in Cantonese by saying kung hei fat choi (“gong hay fah choy”) or in Mandarin by saying gong xi fa cai (“gong zee fah-chai”). This means “Wishing you good fortune.”
VOCABULARY celebrate — to do things you enjoy because of a special occasion associated — if you associate something with another thing, this means the two are connected occurs — when something occurs, it happens considered — thought of dependable — a dependable person is someone who acts the same way over time traditionally — things you do because of a custom or belief
longevity — long-life auspicious — lucky decorate — to make a place look attractive sayings — something that people often say common — if something is common, it happens often suggests — makes you think of something fortune — wealth, good luck
10
February 2021
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH)
H IGHLIG H TS A continued congratulations to staff celebrating 20 years at CNH Joyce Location: 5288 Joyce St. ; Tel: 604-435-0323 / Annex Location: 3690 Vanness Ave. ; Tel: 604-428-9142 / Visit: www.cnh.bc.ca
By Collingwood Neighbourhood House
Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) proudly recognizes its long-serving staff members. At the 2020 Annual General Meeting (AGM), CNH staff and contractors who have reached the milestones of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and, for the first time in CNH’s history, 30 years of service and dedication to the neighbourhood house, were thanked by the Board of Directors.
him helping to turn the CNH Newsletter into the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News. Paul writes some articles (particularly restaurant reviews) for the newspaper and does the paper’s monthly design and layout. He is proud of the fact that the newspaper was instrumental in saving two local historic landmarks, Firehall 15 and Carleton Schoolhouse.
We recognize and celebrate Paul Reid and Ram Kaur Dhatt as our last two staff members who reached 20 years of service in 2020.
Paul also worked for a time at CNH teaching English classes, where he not only helped newcomers to learn English but also met the woman who became his wife, the most personally meaningful outcome of his many years of volunteer and paid work at CNH.
Paul Reid Paul’s 20 years of paid work with CNH is actually a small part of his long-time, broad involvement and activism in the neighbourhood, where he has served as an enthusiastic volunteer both with CNH and other local groups. Paul started volunteering with CNH in the mid-‘90s on CNH’s Board of Directors, serving as Board Treasurer. He stepped down from the Board to join the Arts Pow Wow, encouraging support for the arts in RenfrewCollingwood. Paul’s love of the arts also showed up in some of his other volunteer work as he founded the Collingwood Music Club, designed and helped produce the Spirit of Collingwood Mural and also helped to produce the Faces of Our Neighbourhood Festival, the precursor to Collingwood Days. He was a founding member of Collingwood Days and has been Co-Entertainment Coordinator and Stage Manager for Collingwood’s annual community festival. Paul also worked as a mentor with Prevention Education and also with CRYME (Collingwood Renfrew Youth Mappers and Educators). Paul’s involvement with CNH’s Communications Committee led to This page is sponsored by Collingwood Neighbourhood House
Ram Kaur Dhatt Ram started working at CNH in 1999 as a casual. She worked at various locations within CNH before becoming a permanent staff member at Grenfell School Age Child Care in 2008, where she still is today! In 2009, Ram received her School Age Child Care certificate through Douglas College. Ram and her husband of 40 years have four children and four grandchildren. You will often find Ram playing UNO, Go Fish, Candy Land or another game with the children. Her quiet, easy-going nature is welcomed by both the children in her care and her co-workers. Ram genuinely cares about the children in her care – whether laughing at their jokes, reminding them of rules while playing games, or helping them talk through conflicts that arise – and encourages the children to care as well. Ram is an amazing human being, and we are blessed at CNH to have had her here for the last 20 years!
11
February 2021
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
February 2021 Happy Lunar New Year - The Year of the Ox The year of the Metal Ox brings career advancement, success in business, prosperity, and wellness for all zodiac signs. The Ox year of 2021 is under the influence of the metal element, just like the Year of the Rat 2020. This year predicts new career opportunities, so don't let anxiety or negative thinking affect you. www.thechinesezodiac.org Success and Prosperity for Everyone in 2021. Please follow all Provincial Health Orders. Covid 19 is very present and all safety protocols are in place in our businesses. A vaccine has arrived and slowly but surely we will work to get back to life as we use to know. Please continue to wear your masks in all public spaces and allow for 2 meters for physical distancing. Thank you for helping us be safe.
Coming Events February Love your City 12 Ð Lunar New Year 14 Ð ValentineÕs Day 15 Ð Family Day
Covid Micro Grants for Businesses Thank you to businesses who submitted a Covid Micro Grant application. The deadline was January 22nd, 2021 and all applications are being reviewed and distribution will begin this month. The grant is appreciation for businesses who pivoted quickly to remain open for business during the pandemic. The grant will cover costs retroactive to April 2020 to present and to items such as: -
hand sanitizers/refills masks PPE Plexi glass partitions
- floor stickers or markers - signage (with Covid messaging) - face shields - gloves
The success of this program may lead to other similar programs. Love Your City Love you City is a social media campaign occurring throughout Vancouver. Several BIAs in the city are participating in daily specials, contests, featuring landmarks and special features within their neighbourhoods. Follow #loveyouricty #shopcollingwood
Covid 19 Ð We all need to work together. WHAT YOU CAN DO: - Stay home if you are sick or not feeling well - SOCIAL DISTANCE 2 Meters apart - Wear masks when required - WASH HANDS OFTEN 20 seconds - BE PATIENT & STAY INFORMED
How to Reach Us: @shopcollingwoodvancouver @shopcollingwood
Welcome to the Neighbouhood Ð Mission Possible
@shopcollingwood
We are happy to welcome our new partners, Mission Possible. You will see new faces on the street. Say hello to our new Street Clean Team members. They will out on Monday and Wednesdays mornings.
#300 Ð 3665 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC T: 604.639.4403 E: info@shopcollingwood.ca
For more information on Mission Possible Ð www.mission-possible.ca
W: shopcollingwood.ca
Shop Collingwood Ð ItÕs good for business
12
February 2021
Don Davies MP Vancouver Kingsway
Happy Lunar New Year 恭賀新禧
Chúc MØng Næm M§i
Community Office 2951 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5R 5J4 604-775-6263 | Don.Davies@parl.gc.ca
새해 복 많이 받으세요
DonDavies.ca
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
