Renfrew-Collingwood Community News, March 2014

March 2014

COMMUNITY NEWS Strong Women

RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com

Commemorating International Women’s Day, March 8

by Susan Wong 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.

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 age 102, still strong at heart, but her frail little body just had to rest.

Susan Wong pays tribute to the generations of strong women before her and celebrates the future. Left: 1946.

Grandma; top right: Mom with kids; bottom right: Susan Wong’s children

Eating Out in RC: Romer’s Burger Project Chef at Graham Bruce Bar Page 5 Page 8

Collingwood Seniors ring in the new year Page 13

Continued on page 3

Renfrew Arts Group Page 16

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March 2014

This could be your ad

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Clarendon Street connector project

For more information Contact Lisa Phone: 604-435-0323 extension 261 or Email: rccnewssales@cnh.bc.ca

The Clarendon Connector project is finally finished and ready to be open. Due to a lack of connectivity in Norquay Village’s street network south of Kingsway, this was a longstanding challenge for the community that was placing substantial traffic volumes on local streets. The response from the City was to acquire the lots necessary for an extention of Clarendon Street at East 34th Avenue northward to form a T-intersection at East 33rd Avenue.

direct connection to the proposed community amenities planned for the 2400 Kingsway Development site. It is also designed to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety through bulging corners, restricting movements by motor vehicles, and signalizing the new intersection of Clarendon/East 33rd Avenue. The change should also improve the connectivity for all transportation and relieve several local streets of inappropriate through traffic.

This change is intended to improve traffic flow by providing a

Look for the Clarendon street connector to be in operation soon.

Don Davies, MP Vancouver Kingsway

My staff and I are here to assist you with federal issues.

Contact us with your ideas and concerns.

I will bring your voice to Ottawa!

2951 Kingsway Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5R 5J4 Tel: 604-775-6263 Email: Don.Davies@parl.gc.ca

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

March 2014

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Strong Women: Continued from page 1 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 all-time 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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March 2014

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

Paul Reid: staff writer and layout coordinator Lisa Symons: sales and distribution coordinator Julie Cheng: editorial coordinator Contributors: Crecien Bencio, Cari Chan, Julie Cheng, Loretta Houben, Rob Howatson, Yujia Jiang, Stephanie Lim, Paul Reid,Yoko Tomita, Susan Wong

We want to hear from you!

Yes, You! Send comments, community events, press releases by regular post, fax or e-mail. Suggestions for improving the paper are welcome.

We welcome appropriate, unsolicited editorial submissions if accompanied by the author’s real name, address and telephone number. The author should retain the original as we cannot return submissions without prior agreement nor does submission guarantee publication. We reserve the right to make editorial changes.

Next submission deadline: Mar. 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

Family Tree Tips for Searching the Greater Vancouver Directories by Loretta Houben A marvellous detective tool to hunt down clues for your family research is located at the Vancouver Public Library Central Branch downtown.

On the seventh floor is a wonderful room filled with archival treasure.

At the far end of the room, against the wall on the right-hand side, are shelves full of greater Vancouver criss cross directories dating from 1963 to the 1980s in book form.

The B.C. city directories are on microfilm, with the ones from 1860 to 1955 now online at http:// www.vpl.ca/bccd/index.php. There are also two shelves of Chinese directories from 1947 to 1981.

By the early 20th century, city directories were found throughout western Canada. They were published annually and had many uses. The information is sorted alphabetically, by street and by telephone numbers. The directories also contain historical information about B.C. communities, population figures, government listings, operating newspapers, and also document the growth and development of B.C. over the years.

The criss cross directories are a little different, and include exchange numbers, telephone numbers in numerical sequence, subscriber’s name and addresses.

You can use the directories to track the history of communities and individual homes and find your ancestors. The criss cross directories are useful if you know the name of the street your ancestor lived on, but can’t remember his particular address.

Part of the title page for the Vancouver criss cross directory. items and had a display of German dolls and doll furniture. Its name was the Wishing Well Gift Shop, so to verify the address I looked up the 3300 block of Kingsway in the 1967 Vancouver criss cross directory, and I found the address at 3333 Kingsway.

Beside it was Hobby World Stores at 3355, and further west was Copp the Shoe Man at 3327 and Buckerfield’s Ltd. at 3311. Do any of you remember these stores?

The online directories are very useful as you can access them from home. I didn’t know my grandparent’s address in 1942, so I checked it out from my home computer and it was very easy to use as the names are in alphabetical order. I quickly found my grandpa’s name, and his wife’s name is listed in brackets beside his, along with his occupation at the Burrard Dry Dock,

where he helped build ships during the Second World War. They lived at 2163 Dundas Street. Looking at his neighbour’s occupations, I notice that quite a few also worked at the Burrard Dry Dock.

This is a fascinating look into Vancouver’s history, and also for your own family history. I urge you to give it a go!

Next month’s installment will show how to use social media, including Facebook, to acquire information for your family tree search.

Loretta Houben is a longtime resident in the Collingwood area and enjoys delving into the library archives to discover local and family information from her past.

For instance, I remembered my parents lived on Euclid Avenue, so I looked up their telephone number for 1963 and I found my father’s name with the address. But due to privacy laws, the criss cross directories were phased out in 2001.

However, the hunt before that year is fascinating. I even checked out my old address in 1982 and found my husband’s name with our old phone number, which I’d forgotten.

I have lived in this area of Collingwood for most of my life.

I remember a wonderful store on Kingsway that sold lovely gift

Part of the 1967 city directory that shows a few of the businesses in the 3300 block of Kingsway.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Eating Out in RC:

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March 2014

Romer’s Burger Bar

by Paul Reid

8683 Kerr St. Vancouver, BC V5S 0A4

EYE CARE CENTRE

PHONE 604 566 9545 Greetings food fans. How goes it?

I had a fantastic day today. Today was the day that we (Canada’s Men’s Hockey Squad) mopped the ice with our poor American friends to the South – a joyous occasion that never gets old. Thanks too, of course, to Canada’s dear Women’s Hockey Unit who also socked it to the Yanks the day previous. Go Canada!!!

So that was in the morning if you recall. What better way to celebrate such a magnificent victory than to have a brewski or two and lunch on some sun-drenched patio, say, overlooking a scenic river scene. “In Renfrew-Collingwood?” you query. Well, technically no, but if we were to dial back the hands of time to the days of “historic Collingwood,” then we could say yes. For in those days reader, before there was a South Vancouver, everything between Collingwood and the Fraser river was considered Collingwood. And it’s there reader, overlooking that lovely river at the foot of Kerr that we now have Romer’s Burger Bar. My accomplice on this particular outing was not my sweetie, although he is a very nice man – our very own Robert F. Edwards, who as we all know, has been a contributing writer for the RCC News on and off for nearly a decade. He also has the fine distinction of being my friend, of which I am proud.

So it’s now about 12:30 as we enter Romer’s and the place is packed – a good sign. Still, there is some room out in the atrium, which is the portion of the patio surrounded by glass to keep it nice and cozy year round. Apparently in the warmer months, the atrium opens up to join the rest of the patio which is a big hit all summer with the bevy-swilling, burgermunching, sitting by the river in the sun crowd. Until then, on a cold, windy, yet sunny day as this day was, the atrium was the perfect place to enjoy the boats and the ducks and the clouds and the sun.

But let’s not forget the food. And people, I’m telling you – you will not be disappointed with your burger at Romer’s. We are talking gourmet burgers here. Robert’s reaction upon his first bite was, and I quote: “Now that’s a good burger!” I myself will second that motion. The photos don’t quite do them justice, but these burgers arrive looking like works of art.

Robert had the Wicked Deadly Cheeseburger: five cheeses, red onion, leafy greens and Russian tarragon dressing (11.95). I had The Chorizodor: chorizo-spiced pork and beef patty, cheddar, pepper jack, Boursin, vine-ripened tomato, sweet onion, avocado and diablo sauce (12.75). With sea salt fries (2.50).

And of course, there was beer involved in such a situation – the Gypsy Tears

Come together right now with Freshslice Pizza

Ruby Ale (5.50) for Bob and the Eastern Promises Pilsner (5.50) for myself. We cheers Canada’s hockey victories. We cheers USA’s hockey defeats. Now we just need to school those Swedes, which at the time of this writing – remains undone*.

Romer’s Burger Bar is the creation of executive chef Jim Romer. Born in Marin County, and trained at Culinary Institute of America, Jim has spent over 20 years preparing “mind-blowing” good food.

Pick-Up Special Single Extra Large Pizza with two toppings Only $7.99 *Redeemable with coupon.

Two locations

2582 Commercial Drive 604-707-6669 2889 Grandview Hwy 604-568-6121 freshslice.com

Jim believes that good food begins with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that include nothing that you can’t pronounce.

Secondly, Jim’s all about the flavour: “unexpected, sublime, wonderful flavours like the meltin-your-mouth Kobe beef in the Ultimate Kobe Classic that makes you say Holy $#!% is that a good burger.”

Romer’s philosophy is this: “Eat good food. Keep it fresh. Keep it simple. Be creative. Let seasons and farmers be our guide. Be good to the planet, and all who are on it. Laugh. Share. Do what you do best: with us, it’s burgers.”

Here, here. Mr. Romer and company – Romer’s Burger Bar ROCKS! In addition to the food, awesome location, cool atmosphere, the service was excellent and everyone I talked to there, really nice. Thank you and keep up the fine work. I shall return and so should you, my dear reader. Bon appetit. *No doubt. 3 - 0. Way to Gold Canada!

Graham Bruce Elementary Excellence in Education

dynamic programs for K-7 students 3633 tanner st.

Vancouver 604-713-4778

bruce.vsb.bc.ca

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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

March 2014

Still Creek Stories

Do you have memories, stories and photos of Still Creek and Renfrew Ravine? We’d like to hear and see them!

Story Collecting and Art Workshops Sundays, March 16, 23 and 30 at Slocan Hall, 1:00-4:00 pm 2750 East 29th Ave. in Slocan Park

community’s stories about Still Creek and Renfrew Ravine and leave a legacy for the community.

In 2012 chum salmon returned to spawn in Still Creek in Vancouver just below Grandview Highway for the first time in about 80 years!

And they were back again in 2013!

Did the creek once run through your back yard?

What is the most amazing thing you found in the ravine?

Did you play in the ravine?

Did old-timers tell you stories about the creek and the ravine?

Have you helped with ravine clean ups and stream restoration projects?

Can you fill in the details about what the stream was once like, how it became neglected, polluted and buried in pipes under our streets, and what has been happening to restore the ravine and the stream to health?

Still Moon Arts Society is working on a Still Creek Stories art book project. They are looking to tell the

Still Moon is also partnering with TAG (Teen Action Group) at Renfrew Branch Library to collect Still Creek Stories.

Come out to their Still Creek Stories event at the Renfrew Branch Library on Sunday, April 6th from 1:00 to 4:00 pm and bring your stories and photographs. Chinese language translation services will be available for this event. You can sign up for story collection interviews and join in on the discussion on Still Creek!

Renfrew / Collingwood

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North 

Broadway

E.22nd Ave.

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E.41st Ave.

Collingwood Insurance Ph: 604.438.9888

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Kingsway F

London Square Dental Centre #220 3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.435.4545

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5750 Tyne Street

Jo yc eS t.

Ru pe rt St.

Ea rle sS t.

E.33rd Ave.

2066 Kingsway

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E.29th Ave.

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The Tipper Restaurant Ph: 604.873.1010

Renfrew St.

Nanaimo St.

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Boundary Rd.

Collingwood Neighbourhood House 5288 Joyce Street 604.434.0323

Slocan St.

Grandview Hwy.

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Renfrew Park Community Centre 2929 E22nd. Ave. Ph: 604.257.8388

Joyce Hair Design Ph: 604.451.7680

5156 Joyce St.

Papa John’s Pizza Ph: 604.310.PAPA

#300-3340 Kingsway

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

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March 2014

Getting More from Your City Garden

In our space-thirsty urban setting,

smaller gardens are both a trend and a necessity by Stephanie Lim

Combine some or all of these spacesaving strategies:

Even a small backyard garden or community garden plot can produce abundant fresh food. With a little planning, you can harvest your homegrown goods from spring to fall—and even winter! Planning never seems as exciting as planting and harvesting (and eating), but it’s an important step and can save you a lot of trouble in the end.

Small garden or large garden, novice grower or expert, one of the questions I hear most often is how to grow more food. Even if your space is small, you can grow food, but you need to consider some key factors to get the biggest harvest for your time and energy. This means choosing the right plants for the right spot. A little know-how goes a long way.

Choosing a spot Food plants need a lot of sun. If you’re putting in a new garden, keep an eye on your yard and take note of the sunniest spots. A space with 6+ hours of direct sunlight is best, and 8+ is even better. This may mean your ideal growing space is in front of your home, and while vegetable gardens are traditionally backyard affairs, there are plenty of innovative and appealing options for beautiful street-facing agriculture.

Drainage is also important. Unless you’re trying to grow watercress or wasabi (both of which grow well in Vancouver, no joke), avoid building your garden in a spot that has a huge, lingering puddle after every rainstorm. Otherwise your plants could end up stunted or rotted from too much water.

Make sure you chose a spot for perennials, like these raspberry plants, that will be convenient in the years to come. Photo by Julie Cheng Oftentimes we don’t have access to an ideal garden site. When this is the case, we have to make the best of our situation. If your site gets very little sun, you’ll probably end up frustrated trying to grow sun-loving crops like eggplants or tomatoes. Try focusing on herbs and leafy items like lettuce, chard, pac choi and kale. If muddy, waterlogged conditions are punishing your plants, try building a raised bed and adding plenty of finished compost, peat moss or shredded coconut husks (“coconut coir,” available at most garden shops) to add structure to your soil and help with drainage.

Know what to grow Whether your garden is small or large, maximize your space by using rows vacated by early cool weather crops (radishes, lettuce, spinach) with crops planted later (beans, beets, carrots) that are harvested later in the year. If you design your garden rows to run from east to west, you can put tall plants (like sunflowers) on the north side so they won’t shade other plants.

Remember: once you’ve planted perennials (such as rhubarb or blueberry bushes), they’ll stay in

that same spot year after year. Make sure you chose a spot that will be convenient in the years to come.

Plants are more successful when they’re appropriate for our climate.

I think we all know mangoes won’t grow here, and though I’ve seen the occasional lemon tree growing in East Vancouver, that doesn’t mean they’re easy to take care of! The same goes for vegetables. Ask your neighbours what varieties grow well for them. Keep track of what works for you and share what you know, too! Maybe you can even swap seeds or seedlings. It may be possible to grow vegetables unsuited to our climate, but this is guaranteed to be more effort without guaranteed results. Start with easy, climatesuitable vegetables and build up your skills and confidence first.

Not sure what plants are best for our climate? If you’re buying seeds or plants, try to choose organic varieties that are bred for local success.

Reliable, local brands include West Coast Seeds and Salt Spring Seeds, both of which have online catalogues and gardening resources. Even if you don’t end up buying from these companies, they’re still a great way to find region-specific information.

Read and understand the seed package!

Good companies will tell you when to plant, as well as how tall and wide your plant will get.

My rhubarb bush went from 10 inches wide to eight feet … really. Planting when it’s the recommended temperature will also help your garden thrive, and allowing enough space to grow will help reduce garden diseases caused by crowding and poor air circulation.

Plant Selection: Smaller gardens have less space for space-taking crops like potatoes, squash, and zucchini, as well as spreading herbs like mint and catnip.

Contain spreading herbs in pots, and (depending on your space) limit your space-hog crops to 1-2 plants per year.

Succession Planting: Once quickmaturing cool weather crops (like radishes and lettuce) are harvested, plant slower-maturing fall crops in their place.

Inter-cropping: Plant rows of early harvest items like peas in between rows of plants that need only a small amount of space in spring but will take up more space later.

For example, plant peas between zucchinis.

Companion Planting: Plant an early vegetable with a latematuring plant, like early lettuce between tomatoes.

Find answers to your gardening and fruit tree questions: LEARN TO START SEEDS Wednesday, April 2 Collingwood Neighbourhood House 5:00-7:00 pm SEED SWAP AND SALE Saturday, April 5 Collingwood Neighbourhood House 9:30 am-1:30 pm SEED SWAP AND SALE Saturday, April 12 Renfrew Park Community Centre 9:30 am-1:30 pm GARDENING BASICS WORKSHOP Saturday, April 19 Collingwood Neighbourhood House 1:30-3:30pm * Register at 604-435-0323

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March 2014

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Serving up a lot of fun and a bit of magic

by Julie Cheng

Project Chef’s secret ingredients for health and nutrition “It’s time for the magic ingredient,” says Barb. “This makes bubbles when you add water.” As she measures the baking powder into the bowl, the kindergarten students, all together, let out an awe-filled, “Whoa!”

“Now I’m going to show you a fancy tool: It’s your finger!” she says, waving her index finger in the air. “But it must be a clean finger.”

Another huge “Whoa!” fills the room as she turns the flour into dough with the fancy kitchen gadget that’s her finger.

At Graham Bruce, Barb and her team is running the Project Chef in Residence program. From kindergarten to grade 7 and parents to teachers, everyone at the school learns to develop healthy attitudes toward food, make meals from scratch and, most of all, that sharing food with people is a joy.

“It’s a total immersion,” explains Barb. “When the whole school is involved, that’s when magic really happens.”

Chefs Jeevan, Nathan and Aezen proudly display their pizza masterpiece.

Photo by Michelle Fattore

Make-You-Strong Salad with Apple Juice Vinaigrette Master Chef Barb shows the proper way to measure the flour with the help of Chef Tiffany.

Photo by Julie Cheng

Chefs George, Luciana and Hans carefully follow the recipe.

Photo by Michelle Fattore Watching this animated woman in action is a real treat. You can’t help but think, “These kids are so lucky” and “I wish I learned to cook from her.”

These lucky kindergarteners from Graham Bruce Elementary are learning to cook from Barb Finley, a school teacher for 25 years who later became a chef and has taught at the Dubrulle Culinary Institute and the Northwest Culinary Academy of Vancouver. Barb started Project Chef in 2008 to teach children about wholesome food. This school year, Project Chef will run in 14 schools in Vancouver and cook with some 1,500 children and 800 parent and community volunteers—but there’s also a three-year wait list of more schools wanting this program.

The program buys local and organic as much as possible, from farmers markets. You can still get fresh greens in winter, says Barb. “Right now, there’s arugula and kale, and the wildest, wackiest carrots—the kids love them.”

From Day One, the kids commit to have “an open mind and an open mouth”—to try new foods.

Chef Saman mixes the dough with the fanciest kitchen tool ever—her finger! Photo by Barb Finley

March is nutrition month and also Spring Break—the perfect time to cook with your kids! Try the Make-You-Strong Salad recipe, which Barb has kindly shared here. For more recipe ideas visit projectchef.ca/blog/recipes/.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

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March 2014

Slocan Park notice board keeps community connected by Rob Howatson

While Chef Luciana watches over, Chef Hans measures the flour.

Photo by Barb This week they’ve already learned to make Whole Wheat French Toast with Blueberry Sauce (which the kids “hoovered”), and MakeYou-Strong Salad with Apple Juice Vinaigrette (one student said, “Chef Barb, I feel stronger already!”).

On the menu today is a dinner favourite: Speedy Whole Wheat Pizza. Barb’s staff, Brandon and Michelle, as well as volunteer Sharlyn and parent volunteers Sukh and Sonny, help the students as they measure, mix, roll the dough and put their pizza together. The kindergarten chefs are excited with their pizza creations, saying it’s the best pizza ever.

Parent volunteer Sukh is the proud dad of two students at Graham Bruce. He says, “It’s a great program. The kids are having fun.”

Julie Cheng’s daughter, Kate, took part in Project Chef a few years ago at Grenfell Elementary. Kate would come home and talk about what she learned, like how to slice an apple so it looked like a star. Now a high school student, Kate is still cooking.

When it comes to community building, you can never have too many bulletin boards to help spread the word about upcoming neighbourhood events. Problem is, aside from libraries and community centres, the city offers few legal spaces to display notices. There are about 200 or so municipalityapproved poster cylinders – metal bands that wrap utility poles – located in the city, but they tend to be restricted to the busiest arterials.

And, as the Vancouver Public Space Network points out in a letter to Mayor Robertson’s Engaged City Task Force, commercial poster companies quickly and repeatedly blanket these word rings with their paid advertising. This leaves little room for neighbours to tape up their block party invites.

Neighbourhood Small Grants Project Collingwood Neighbourhood House has once again partnered with South Vancouver Neighbourhood House to host the Neighbourhood Small Grants and Greenest City Neighbourhood Small Grants project this year. Pairs or small groups of residents are encouraged to apply for a grant from $50 to $1,000 to improve your neighbourhood socially, culturally or physically!

Please go to vancouverfoundation. ca/nsg for more information and to apply. All applicants are encouraged to apply online. If you cannot apply online, paper applications can be picked up at the Neighbourhood House beginning in March 2014. Online application opens on March 3, 2014.

Application deadline is April 7. For further information contact Sheri Parke at sparke01@shaw.ca or reception at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 604-435-0323.

Fortunately, some communityminded Renfrew-Collingwood residents have found a way to provide at least a little space for grassroots notices. Local artists Carmen Rosen and Suzo Hickey applied for a Neighbourhood Small Grant from the Vancouver Foundation to create a gorgeous bulletin board shaped like a chum salmon. The functional art piece hangs on the wall of the Slocan Park Field House, an effective location given its proximity to the busy 29th Avenue Skytrain station.

Suzo says they chose a fish shape for the piece in recognition of Still Creek that used to flow through Vancouver’s eastside until much of the waterway was culverted

in the early 1900s. Sections of the creek still run on the surface in the Renfrew Ravine, near the Grandview Highway and in Burnaby. In 2012, a record number of chum found their way up the creek to spawn, despite the fact that until recently the creek was considered one of the most polluted streams in B.C. and little fish activity had been reported there in the past 50 years.

“This project was a great way to share local history with the neighbourhood,” says Suzo, “but more importantly we invited area residents to help decorate the notice board’s fishy frame with steel washers, copper washers and bottlecaps. And in doing so, we provided a great opportunity for people to meet and share experiences, which I think is the best way to build community.”

The eye-catching bulletin board is managed by the Art House in the Field Collective which uses the Slocan Park field house as studio space for visual art classes, costume design, music and photography.

St. Mary’s School

Nurturing the heart, mind & spirit.

We provide a comprehensive education that embodies the Catholic faith.

5239 JOYCE STREET • VANCOUVER • BC • V5R 4G8

Register your child for kindergarten for the 2014 -2015 school year.

604 - 437-1312 • www.stmary.bc.ca • office.smarv@cisva.bc.ca

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Read On!

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

March 2014

A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners

Cherry Blossom Trees in Vancouver 

Read On!

Although it may still feel like winter, spring is not far away. Starting this month the beautiful white and pink cherry blossom trees will be blooming.

 Print worksheets

has a web page.

You can:

 Read the articles

http://renfrew collingwood community news.com/ category/read-on/

Close to 40,000 cherry blossom trees in Vancouver bloom at different times from March through May. Many of the trees were planted in the 1930s after the First World War. They were gifts from Japan to honour the soldiers who had died. Here is a list of some of the best places in the city for enjoying the cherry blossoms:

Level 1

Stanley Park Look near the Japanese Canadian First World War Memorial and the Rose Garden.

Level 2

Reading levels on this page

Level 3

Queen Elizabeth Park Here you can find Vancouver’s largest cherry tree.

After a cold, grey winter, the colourful cherry blossoms are a welcome sign of spring for Vancouverites. Why not bring your camera and go for a walk around the neighbourhood to see what is blooming? Or join one of the walks during the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival taking place April 3 to 28. For more information go to www.vcbf.ca.

Vancouver Diversity Health Fair is March 1st  The 10th annual Vancouver Diversity Health Fair will take place on Saturday, March 1 this year. It is a free event for the whole family. There will be over 50 exhibits to enjoy cooking demonstrations, health testing, entertainment and kids’ activities. The purpose of the Diversity Health Fair is to give health information and resources to immigrants and newcomers to Canada. They provide this information in many languages, including Cantonese, French, Korean, Mandarin, Persian/Farsi, Punjabi, Spanish and Vietnamese.

The Vancouver Diversity Health Fair will take place at the Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Drive, from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm.

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Kitsilano Beach Park Cornwall Avenue and Yew Street are the best areas.

If you want to stay in the Renfrew-Collingwood neighbourhood, Clive Avenue between Spencer and McHardy is a great place to try. As well, take a look around the streets near the Renfrew Ravine between 22nd and 29th Avenues.

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Cherry Blossom Trees F N X F R S I D D S B A M E J

A L G G B K X O C X X K M S O

H L O N K D R O K Y Q W V P H

G V O W I T O H V R S Q T X M

W J O I E M G R L E A L R Z O

T D S O N R O U C X X P M B N

BLOOMING CAMERA FESTIVAL NEIGHBOURHOOD SPRING

S P R I N G S O H B O L E I B

C I F V S C L B L P Q G U W K

B H M K Q O I H Z B B K A C G

L Y I A R A A G N E B R L X C

O R A F L A V I T S E F W K Q

S G U F Z C D E S M S E K X B

S L O T H Q B N A I K E K F J

BLOSSOM COLORFUL FLOWERS PARK TREE

O C X I H F N C P B N R Z G U

M D B P M N B G W E R T M R M

Cesar’s Angels In the heart of Collingwood on the south side of Kingsway between Safeway and London Drugs we find the ever hustling and bustling Consumer Produce. Now celebrating close to 30 years, Consumer Produce has been supplying happy customers with their fresh and affordable fruits, vegetables, meats, fish and grocery items. Managing the action is long time veteran of Consumer Produce, Cesar.

people of every culture flocking to Consumer Produce, they offer a wide variety of fresh meat, poultry and fish. You can also find several aisles of popular Chinese products, as well as a small yet convenient selection of eggs, milk, dairy and ‘western’ items.

A recent addition to Consumer Produce is to have ‘Captain Belo – Master of Quality Seafood’ operating out of the front of the store. Specializing in wild “We try to keep a balance between good prices and quality,” says Cesar, fish that do not take drugs, Captain Belo helps Consumer Produce to offer the best fish at the lowest prices. who needs to work with a large number of suppliers and wholesalers to keep everything moving. One of the only ways that they can keep their When Cesar began in 1987, he was unloading trucks and stocking shelves. prices competitive in today’s market is to buy in high volume. “We buy He had recently arrived from Lima, Peru, to join his uncle who owns in high volume and sell with low margins to keep the prices affordable Consumer Produce. “I didn’t speak English, so I immersed myself in sports and the food fresh.” It’s a fine balance that Cesar needs to constantly monitor so that they neither run out of items, or have so much that can’t and my studies in computer science, which is more mathematics than English.” Having graduated with his degree from UBC, Cesar decided that sell it quickly enough. That’s when they need to discount items, which he was happier working in the lively atmosphere at Consumer Produce than eats into those slim profit margins. stuck behind a desk.

“We try to have a win, win, win situation. The first win is that the customers are happy with our affordable, fresh produce. The second win Today, Cesar is happy and busy, not only as manager of Consumer Produce, but as the father of four kids. His oldest is 20, then there are the is that we can keep our 20 employees employed full time. The third win is that the store makes a reasonable profit, something that has become twins, both 8, and the youngest at 5. Though he has little time for it now, those sports Cesar once enjoyed included surfing, swimming, scuba diving, more difficult over these past 30 years. There is a lot more competition now: chain stores, big box stores – so many options for the customers, cycling, soccer and basketball. keeping them more spread out. So it’s hard to keep up.”

Thank you Cesar and Consumer Produce for keeping us affordably fed all In addition to the wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that keep these years.

CBIA UPDATES

Collingwood Days has been set for Saturday, May 31st 2014 from 11:00am – 4:00pm. Go to the website www.collingwooddays.com for vendor applications and sponsor information. Let’s showcase Collingwood business, artists and entrepreneurs! We are looking for community organizations, sports clubs, service clubs, dance groups to be a part of Collingwood Days. This year will be the 11th annual event, the theme is The Dog Days of Collingwood. See the ad in this issue for more information.

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Lunar New Year – Year of the Horse February 8, 2014 Thank you to the following businesses for participating in the annual Chinese New Year Celebration: Starbucks – Boundary Plaza Malay Curry House Pine House Bakery Western Canada Institute of Kung Fu Consumer Produce London Drugs HM Tax & Accounting TD Canada Trust Vancity Joyce 99 Market Cassandra Hotel CIBC Congee Noodle BMO Bank of Montreal Buddha Worshipping Material City Safeway Max’s Restaurant

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We thank the Hon Hsing Athletic Club once again for being our official Lion Dancers. See you all again next year.

2nd Collingwood International Film Festival – Dates have been set the the 2014 Collingwood International Film Festival

o May 30 – Carleton Elementary School Gym – Hachi A Dog’s Tale

o June 20 – Gaston Park – Spain

o June 27 – Colllingwood Park – Bollywood

o July 4 - Gaston Park – Philippines

o July 11 – Aberdeen Park – China Stay turned for more information next month.

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Contact us on Facebook for contests and current news from the BIA and our members. www.facebook.com/shopcollingwoodvancouver

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*This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Business Improvement Association

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March 2014

The Seniors Connection

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Helping seniors live well in Renfrew-Collingwood

Renfrew-Collingwood Better at Home helps seniors stay independent

by Crecien Bencio For the past three years, RenfrewCollingwood Better at Home has been helping countless seniors remain independent in their own homes and stay connected to the Renfrew-Collingwood community.

Run out of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House, RC Better at Home is designed to help seniors live independently for as long as they wish by providing affordable non-medical home support services, such as light housekeeping, yard work and a shuttle service, as well as a walking club to keep seniors active outside the home.

RC Better at Home’s fees are now based an affordable sliding scale system based on annual income.

What makes RC Better at Home services unique is that the program recognizes hardship and has subsidies available to those who are having difficulty paying for support services. The RC Better at Home program is happy to have a conversation to work out a fee rate that is affordable if a senior cannot afford to pay for the service.

Our light housekeeping and yard work service connects seniors with people in the community to help with tasks such as vacuuming, dusting, cleaning the bathroom, mowing and weeding. RC Better at Home screens and interviews housekeepers, including reference and criminal record checks to make sure that we refer a senior to a trustworthy individual.

Housekeeping rates start at $13 and follow a sliding scale.

Vivian Palmer, a senior who lives in the neighbourhood says, “I have taken advantage of RenfrewCollingwood Better at Home services for the past three years with many positive results. The housekeeping service I receive is extremely helpful to me and the housekeepers are very pleasant.

They are very hard workers and

they do an excellent job in helping me maintain my home.”

The Seniors Shuttle Service (mentioned in a previous article in the Three Links Care Society newsletter) helps seniors travel to where they need to go in the neighbourhood such as medical appointments, going to the bank or grocery shopping. The shuttle picks you up at and drops you off at your home and a volunteer can be provided if you are in need of extra assistance. Seniors shuttle rates start at $10 for a roundtrip and follow a sliding scale.

Our free Seniors Walking Club helps seniors get exercise outdoors in a social and safe environment. The walking club visits different places in Vancouver and also makes special trips each season. Our walking club members also speak a variety of languages such as Cantonese, Tagalog, Mandarin and English.

For more information on Renfrew-Collingwood Better at Home or to register for our services please contact Talia Mastai, RC Better at Home Coordinator at 604-435-0375 or visit us at Collingwood Neighbourhood House at 5288 Joyce Street, Vancouver.

Collingwood Neighbourhood House also has a variety of affordable seniors programs and recreation classes. For more information about seniors programming, you can contact Collingwood Neighbourhood House at 604-435-0375 or visit the website at cnh.bc.ca.

Crecien Bencio is the RenfrewCollingwood Better at Home Seniors Outreach Worker at Collingwood Neighbourhood House.

He works hard to help build an inclusive and nurturing community in his neighbourhood.

Renfrew Collingwood Better at Home is currently seeking experienced housekeepers who speak Cantonese. Please phone 604-435-0375 for more information.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

13

March 2014

Collingwood Seniors Chinese New Year party rings in the Year of the Horse Collingwood Seniors organized a Chinese New Year Party on February 7 at Collingwood Neighbourhood House. More than 40 seniors attended and enjoyed several beautiful performances together as well as a delicious dim sum. Photos by Yujia Jiang

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

8th Annual Seniors’ Health & Wellness Fair – April 2 Each year I am proud to host a Seniors’ Health and Wellness Fair. I am pleased to invite all seniors and their families to attend our seventh annual fair on April 2nd at Renfrew Park Community Centre.

Doors will open at 10 am. There will be over 20 exhibitors providing information on issues such as heart and stroke, arthritis, diabetes and more. The day is always informative and fun. All participants receive a free, healthy lunch.

Apply Now for a Neighbourhood Small Grant!

Want to be a part of expanding our community?

I am pleased to have the opportunity to share information about our own Collingwood program to increase the amount of diverse, community events happening in our community. Through the Neighbourhood Small Grants Program, any resident can apply for and receive $50-$500 of funding to host a community event! This funding can be put towards block parties, community gardens, roadside planters, a neighborhood street hockey tournament, cooking classes, mural painting supplies, or anything other ideas you have to brighten up our community!

Apply online at http://www.collingwoodsouthvan-nsgp.comor or pick up a form at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce St. (the corner of Joyce and Euclid).

Housing Troubles?

Our office has resources for both landlords and tenants on your rights and responsibilities, available in both English and Chinese text.

Please stop by and pick one up. If you’re looking for housing or have recently undergone a difficult transition between residencies, please share your story with us.

Free Public Access Computer A reminder to those seeking computer access for social assistance applications, BC Housing files, resume creation or housing and job searches: I have set up a public computer in my constituency office with quick links to Ministry websites, government services, and community resources. All constituents are welcome to drop by during our office hours (Monday, from 12pm to 7pm, Tuesday to Thursday from 9am to 4pm, and on Friday by appointment). My Constituency Assistants are happy to help with any difficulty.

Office Closure Notice: March 10 My community office will be closed on March 10th for a professional development session.

We apologize for any inconvenience this will cause.

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March 2014

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Collingwood Neighbourhood House

HIGHLIG H TS

Carleton School Age Program Classroom Reveal The Carleton School Age Program is pleased to reveal photos of its new classroom. Located within century-old Sir Guy Carleton Elementary School, the program is licensed to provide before and after school care for up to 30 children; it is also open for full days during spring break, summer holidays, winter break and school professional days. The Carleton School Age Program provides a safe, caring environment that helps children learn through a range of activities such as pottery, baking, arts and crafts, floor puzzles, science experiments and indoor planting.

The new classroom for the Carleton School Age Program provides the perfect setting for children to

Tues 04 Minestrone soup, Tuna melt Sandwich /grill cheese, Salad, Walnut cookies Thurs 06 Roasted chicken / potatoes & vegetables, Salad, Chocolate chip cookies Tues 11 Black been soup, Turkey enchilada (veggie option), Salad, Vanilla pudding Thurs 13 Meat loaf /veggie loaf with mashed cauliflower, Salad, Coconut cup cake learn through play, participate in a wide range of activities and have fun! Parents are encouraged to come down and take a look at the new classroom or call the number provided for additional information.

Tues 18 Broccoli & cheddar cheese soup, Chicken /veggie quiche, Salad, Peanut butter cheesecakes

Monday to Friday 7:30 to 9 am and 3-6 pm

Thurs 20 baked lemon white fish / brown rice, Salad, French macaroni

Call: 604-412-3700

Tues 25 Cauliflower soup, Salmon /veggie burgers, Salad, Fruit tart

Spring into Badminton One of Collingwood’s favorite and longest running recreational activities is men and women’s dropin badminton. The program runs on Sundays for adults and Saturdays for seniors. Badminton drop-in attracts a diverse group of individuals with various skill levels. Participants are encouraged to bring their own racquet, but some spare ones are available and can be borrowed.

While chatting with a few of the drop-in badminton participants, it becomes clear that the program really captures the essence of community and the nature of the neighbourhood house. Drop-in badminton supervisors describe the program as “very community-oriented”. Participants help with the set-up and tear-down of the nets and everyone is very friendly towards one another. Ken, one of the drop-in members who has been a regular for several years, says that despite the different skill levels he enjoys how everyone learns from one another, “we mentor and teach beginners, everyone is on board,” he says.

Collingwood Neighbourhood House invites you to lunch every Tuesday and Thursday. Please note that seniors are served at 12 noon; others are served at 12:10 pm. Full meal prices are $6.25 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for students and $3.25 for children under 12. Items can be purchased a la carte or “to go.”

March menu 2014

Since the relocation and setup of the new classroom, childcare workers have been able to add new activities to their roster. The classroom also features a kitchen that is used in the program and a piano where children can develop their music skills. The space has been described as “homey,” “brighter” and has been commended for its beautiful set up. School teachers within Carleton Elementary School have given accolades for the great art displays and learning areas.

Marcia, the program manager for the Carleton School age program, says the best part of being able to come to a set-up classroom is that it gives an “opportunity to plan and add more activities for the children,” she also mentions that the classroom provides the children with a sense of belonging.

COMMUNITY LUNCH

Thurs 27 Veggie / meat lasagna, Salad / Garlic bread, Brownies

The program averages 20 members a week for the adult drop-in and attracts people with a variety of skill levels.

Unlike some other programs where participation may fluctuate depending on the time of the year, badminton remains consistent and even serves as a meeting spot for new friends. Some of the attendees mention that they have been friends for over 10 years and use the drop-in program as a place to meet and improve their badminton skills.

If you are looking for a new activity to try out this spring, come down to Collingwood’s drop-in badminton, if you come on the right day you may even get to taste some of the home-cooked goodies Ken’s wife surprises the group with from time to time.

This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Please Note: Seniors’ Kundalini Yoga has changed its start time. The class now runs from 9am to 10am on Mondays and Thursdays.

Relax, renew and rejuvenate through breathing, exercises, stretching and meditation. No class on April 21 or May 19.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

15

March 2014

Upcoming Programs at Collingwood Branch Library 2985 Kingsway at Rupert

All FAMILIES WELCOME!

Children’s Programs Looking for something to do during Spring Break? Collingwood Library offers lots of free, fun activities for school-age kids.

Spring Break Kids’ Crafts Wednesday afternoon, March 19, 2:00 pm. Create with us! Children can use a variety of media to make exciting crafts.

Free! Registration required. Call 604665-3953 Spring Break Lego Block Party Tuesday, March 25, 2:30 pm. Drop-in to express your creativity with Lego and make new friends. Lego provided. (And Duplo for smaller hands.) Free! Drop-in.

Saturday Family Board Games Every Saturday all day. All the best board games and puzzles for the whole family.

Everyone can join in the fun! Free! Drop-in.

Please note that our Family Storytime and Babytime take a break during the month of March, and resume again in April.

(“A House to Play and Learn”)

Adult Programs Adult ESL Book Club Tuesdays, March 18, April 15, 7:008:30 pm Enjoy practising your English conversation and reading skills in a supportive environment while learning about culture and meeting new people. This program is most suitable for intermediate speakers.

Registration is required. To register please contact the Collingwood Branch at 604-665-3953.

Amlat’si is a drop-in program for families of all cultures with children from birth – 6 years of age and their extended family. Child development activities with an Aboriginal focus(crafts, storytelling, play time).

Day:

Monday

Time:

3:00 – 5:00 pm Lots of indoor and outdoor play, beautiful crafts, storytelling and more! Nutritious snack for everyone!

Free

Location: Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street (2 blocks south of the Joyce Street Skytrain Station)

Amlat’si is a friendly, creative, comfortable and supportive Family Drop-in where parents can socialize and play and learn with their children.

Families are also invited and welcome to stay for the Parent Support Circles and All Nations Families Branching Out Dinner and Program

Financial Literacy – Taxation Filing Friday, March 7, 10:30 am Learn about income tax and filing your income tax. You’ll learn about tax credits, tax benefits, and free filing services. Presented in partnership with Vancity. Register at 604-665-3953.

For more information please phone 604-435-0323 Valeria Mancilla, Amlat’si Program Manager/Nancy Sweedler, Child Development Coordinator Or drop by Collingwood Neighbourhood House and learn more about us!

Funded by Vancouver Coastal Health Authority

C:\Documents and Settings\Administrator\My Documents\RC_Community_News\february_2014\Amlatsi Flyer.doc

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Babysitting Training (11+yrs)

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For our full listing of programs check out our website or drop by and pick up a brochure. GST included.

Registration has now started. Register early so you don’t miss out.

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For our full listing of programs check out our website or drop by and pick up a brochure. GST included.

On-line Registration Register in person Register by phone (604 257-8388, ext 3)

Registration Starts Mon, March 10 Tue, March 11 Wed, March 12

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Start the day right. Have breakfast with your pals before Day Camp! A simple breakfast included! Your choice of cereal, waffles, toast and fresh fruit! $5/drop in if space Mon-Fri 8:00-9:00am Mar 17-28 $20/week

Spring Break Day Camp (6-12yrs)

A fun filled day camp includes games, arts & crafts, swimming and field trips! Program subject to change.

Mon-Fri 9:00am-3:00pm Mar 17-28 $105/week

Art Attack Camp (7-9yrs)

We will be exploring different artists, creating a group project, playing games, and having fun! The messier the better so dress for an art safari.

Mon-Fri 9:00am-3:00pm Mar 17-21

Cali Boyle

Pit Stop (6-12yrs)

Join us in winding down from an action-packed time at Day Camp. Activities will include quiet games, reading, cards, and more. Bring your favourite book or game too! Some gym time will be available if group has enough energy. $7.50/ drop in, if space.

Mon-Fri 3:00-5:30pm Mar 17-28 $30/5 sess

Badminton Camp (6-18yrs)

Richard Le Shuttle I/II - Beginner/Intermediate Learn the fundamentals of badminton from a professional badminton coach. The program introduces basic racquet skills, movement, and coordination required for badminton.

Mon-Fri 9:00-10:30am Mar 17-21 15-18yrs $73.50/week 6-14yrs $70/week Mon-Fri 9:00-10:30am Mar 24-28 6-14yrs $70/week 15-18yrs $73.50/week Shuttle III/IV – Intermediate/Advanced This intermediate and advanced program reviews and improves upon the basic skills.

Tue-Fri 10:30am-12:00pm Mar 17-21 6-14yrs $70/week 15-18yrs $73.50/week Mon-Fri 10:30am-12:00pm Mar 24-28 6-14yrs $70/week 15-18yrs $73.50/week

Family Gym Time (walking-5yrs)

$105/5 sess

Samuel Chan

This drop in program will help stimulate physical, intellectual, and social development of your child.

Mo Fr 10:30am-12:00pm Jan 20-Mar 14 $3/drop in, $1/sibling

First Aid Hero So you want to be a babysitter? Or, your parents want you to take this course so they feel confident leaving you at home alone?

Babysitting with First Aid Hero emphasizes learning through real life scenarios.

Sat 9:00am-4:00pm Mar 29 $60/person

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St Patrick’s Day Luncheon (55+yrs) Wed

12:00-3:00pm

Mar 12

$9/person

Movie Matinee (55+yrs) Enjoy an afternoon at the Movies (“Show Boat”) with some munchies.

Pre-registration required, seats are limited. Payment at the door.

Mon

12:45-2:45pm

Mar 24

Migratory Snow Geese Tour (55+yrs) Wed

8:45am-4:30pm

Mar 26

$1/person

$79/person

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Wednesday, April 2nd 10:00am-2:00pm, Free

Co-hosted by Adrian Dix, MLA Vancouver Kingsway And Renfrew Park CC. Visit display booths from various health agencies. Light lunch provided. Pre-registration is required.

Wibit Inflatable Day

Saturday, March 22, 2014 3:00pm–5:00pm

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

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March 2014

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Renfrew Arts Group and Community Art 2014 by Yoko Tomita The Renfrew Arts Group has been practising acrylic painting and mixed media the last four years as part of the Arts and Health project from the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation. Most of the participants that have been attending this class had no previous experience in painting and developed amazing acrylic painting skills at Renfrew Community Centre with host artist Yoko Tomita.

The vibrant hues of Coming Together in Landscape is the work of seniors taking part in the Arts and Health project at Renfrew Park Community Centre. Photos to Yoko Tomita

COLLINGWOOD

DAYS 2014!

S AT U R DAY, M AY 3 1 , 1 1 a m - 4 p m CARLETON ELEMENTARY, 3250 KINGSWAY

BE PART OF THE FUN!

BE A SPONSOR:

Receive valuable recognition & community-spirit!

BE A FOOD VENDOR:

The Arts and Health project has given these participants the opportunity to work collaboratively through art works as well as develop individual painting skills. We try to create a relaxed and casual painting environment by letting go of our judgmental mind and practising painting wherever our heart leads us.

The creative process brings us various stages that challenge our mind and physical ability to express our feelings.

We have been sharing the goodness within us and keep a positive attitude to practice painting by supporting each other. Learning basic painting elements step by step, starting from pencil sketching, drawing from point zero stage. We have used various mediums such as watercolour, acrylic paint and paper collages.

Art is fun! Some participants have said they have forgotten their arthritis pain and felt better since joining the group. They have also greatly enjoyed making new friends.

This art class keeps us living fully where our souls want to express deep within, sharing loving moments and friendship by supporting each other to be Renfrew’s creative community. This project has now ended and a new project will start in April 2014. Please refer to Renfrew Park’s new spring 2014 brochure for more information.

There are currently 12 individual landscape paintings in the glass showcase by group members. There are also a series of collaborative visual art works on display in the main hallway in Renfrew Park Community Centre. Some of them are titled Five Street Banners, Paper Collage, Big Picture Mosaic Salmon, Cubism Style Dinner Party, Four Seasons and Renfrew Ravine (landscape painting).

Renfrew Park Community Centre is approved to create another six street banners from the Neighbourhood Matching Fund. Please look out at the end of April for more information about banner project.

Yoko Tomita is a community artist who creates educational, accessible and skill-building visual art programs for a variety of age groups.

Promote your eatery & raise funds!

BE AN EXHIBITOR:

Receive excellent exposure & awareness!

BE A VOLUNTEER:

Have fun & get great experience!

TO SIGN UP, VISIT: www.collingwooddays.com Collingwood BIA 604.639.4403 info@shopcollingwood.ca

Seniors work together on the collaborative painting Coming Together in Landscape.