Renfrew-Collingwood Community News, May 2013

May 2013

COMMUNITY NEWS

RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com

Collingwood Days, Saturday, May 25 See Insert Inside for Details Collingwood Days 2013 will be filled with fun and exciting activities! It’s our 10th Anniversary and the event is going to be an even BIGGER celebration. Bring your family, bring your friends, and enjoy a full day of events and activities. Leading up to the big day, there will be art and performance outreach events from May 18 - 24. For the full list of fun events, visit www.collingwooddays.com On the day of the festival, enjoy a multicultural variety of delicious food, including a pancake breakfast with local firefighters. Plus, check out the International Marketplace and Community Corner for interesting information, unique and beautiful gifts, accessories and more!

Be entertained and amazed with exciting shows and demonstrations! Shows include BMX Bike Air Show and Dog Agility Show.

Get ready to play, play, play! The Kids Zone Carnival area includes fun games and rides including Carnival Wheel, Dino Toss, Tic Tac Toe, Bungee Wall, Bouncy Castle, Fishing, Plinko, Face Painting and Balloon Creations, and for the first time, a Dunk Tank!

The Joyces will take you on a trip down memory lane on a ride of learning, nostalgia and community celebration!

Please note the date and time change for the NSGP-sponsored 6th Annual RC Community Talent Showcase. It will now be held Saturday, May 18, 2013, 6:30-8:30 at Collingwood Neighbourhood House: 5288 Joyce St., Vancouver.

To enter for this opportunity to win fabulous prizes, and the chance to perform on the main stage at Collingwood Days, contact Paul and Susan at: 778.724.0326 or email: renfrewcollingwoodtalentshow@hotmail.com

2

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

May 2013

Hoops for Hope 2013 a huge success EYE CARE CENTRE

After six months of weekly basketball practice, the youth of St. Mary’s Parish Vancouver is finally showing the community the skills and talents they have in this popular sport.

On March 23, the St. Mary’s Youth Ministry hosted its first annual Hoops for Hope, a basketball tournament for charity. Eight teams comprised of youth and young adults competed for gold, silver and bronze medals and a chance to help their team’s favourite charity.

Thanks to Youth Ministry’s dedicated coach, Vonah Sanqui, youth in Grades 8 to 12 were able to develop their abilities and character, such as teamwork, competence and sportsmanship. Vonah is an experienced basketball coach and a certified basketball referee. She has tremendous passion for the sport and enjoys teaching and encouraging others, especially young people.

There were almost 80 players present in the event, including three females.

Half of the participants are youth from the RenfrewCollingwood area and some from Delta and Port Coquitlam.

Youth coordinator The gold medalists, Team Revolution.

Rocelyn Catris was thrilled with the outcome of The four-hour event held at St. the event. “It is inspiring to see Mary’s school gym raised more youth and young adults work in than $400 for the winning team’s teams and support each other, chosen organization, Chalice, a especially for a worthy cause,” she Catholic child sponsorship program. said, adding that the event became Through Chalice, people can sponsor a wonderful success because of the a child or buy a gift for a child or help of volunteers and community community. Some items in the gift members and the support of catalogue are animals, ParticipACTION. water systems or medication.

Through the Teen Physical St. Mary’s Youth Ministry Activity Grant received from looks forward to another ParticipACTION Teen Challenge, successful event next year and St. Mary’s Youth Ministry was able hopes to collaborate with another to provide for the materials for organization in the future. the event. ParticipACTION Teen Challenge is sponsored by CocaFor suggestions or comments, please Cola Canada and works to get contact Rocelyn at youth.smarv@rcav. teens moving across the country org or call 604-435-9611 ext. 247. by breaking down the barriers that prevent teens from getting active.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

3

May 2013

Former BC Lions running back recalls his journey from the Deep South to north of the border by Soren Elsay You may know him as the quiet, soft-spoken guy helping you behind the counter at Renfrew Park Community Centre, but John Henry White was once a punishing force as a running back for the BC Lions.

Before he played over 120 games and racked up over 8,000 yards in the Canadian Football League as #20 for the Lions, John Henry White very nearly remained in the United States. After starring for Louisiana Tech University, the diminutive White, who stands at 5’9”, had an outside chance of playing in the National Football League. Originally drafted in the eighth and final round of the 1978 NFL draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, White nearly made the Chiefs’ opening day roster.

“I was the final player released by the Chiefs that year,” explains White. “I could have easily stayed [in the NFL], but I would have been on the inactive roster and [the inactive roster] wasn’t nearly the same as it is today.”

Instead, White entertained the idea of migrating north. Although the BC Lions coach at the time, Vic Rapp, had been in contact with him during his college career, White knew very little about the CFL. “I hadn’t really looked at the CFL much, I’m from the deep south

of Louisiana, and I knew certain things about the CFL but not a lot,” recalls White. “The first team that [approached] me was Saskatchewan … I had never even heard of that name!”

After signing with BC, White was forced to adjust to the many differences between the Canadian and American version football, such as a wider field, one fewer down and the ability for multiple players to be in motion before the ball is snapped. Although he gained much of his knowledge through team classroom sessions and one-on-one talks with teammates, White still had to personally alter his game.

to 1987. Among his fondest memories of his time in the CFL are winning the 1985 Grey Cup and an 84-yard catchand-run touchdown against Hamilton during the ’79 season.

Following the end of his football career, John Henry White chose to stay permanently in the city of Vancouver

“It’s a beautiful city, but it’s actually the people that made “[In college] you would look to go wide, get to the sideline and then go me want to stay, ever since I first [upfield],” explains White, “but in the CFL, [the field] was so wide that came here I’ve felt at home.” you could just keep going east and John Henry White is currently a staff member at the west and end up going nowhere.

Renfrew Park Community Centre and once coached Soren Elsay is a That was a big transition.” the local junior football team, the Trojans.

Langara student Photo by Julie Cheng and an aspiring “The biggest thing was the motion, journalist. though. In college you could only have one guy in motion [before the snap] at once, up here you would sometimes have five guys moving at once; it was crazy.”

Once he had gotten a handle on the new game, White became a steady contributor for the Lions with 35 touchdowns over the course of 10 seasons in the league from 1978

Treat your Mom to a special hand made Italian meal this Mother’s Day at The P.I.

POOR

View our special menu online and call ahead to reserve 604-251-1122

ITALIAN

B.C. HALIBUT & PRAWN MENU Starts May 1st

4

May 2013

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: Puspa Affandi, Rocelyn Catris, Emily Chan, Soren Elsay, Rania Hatzioannou, Paul Reid, Kathy Romses, Timothy Shay

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.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Baby & Me group for new single moms comes to Renfrew-Collingwood by Puspa Affandi When Mercedes learned she was pregnant, she was terrified at the thought of going through the journey alone. So when she found out about the YWCA Baby & Me Support Group in downtown Vancouver, she jumped at the chance to join.

really in a bad place and so scared,” says Mercedes. “To feel so much support and just be around women who are walking through the same thing as I was, it was so comforting.”

For more than 15 years, CNH has partnered with YWCA to provide Baby & Me is a support group for support to single mothers living in expecting and new moms who will raise the east Vancouver and is excited their first child on their own. Here they to help bring this program to the find a welcoming place to get together, Collingwood community. share stories and inspire each other in their journey towards personal and “We have noticed the need for a economic independence. second Baby & Me group in east Vancouver neighbourhoods for “When I first arrived at the group, I was a while now,” says Janice Lee, manager of YWCA single mothers’ services, “and are thrilled to be able to work with CNH to make this happen.”

start in June 2013 and meet on Saturday afternoons from 1:30 to 3:30 pm. Besides sharing stories and experiences, moms also learn practical skills such as financial “New moms are at a planning and healthy eating. There is different stage, with free childminding. different needs and priorities than other “I’m extremely thankful to have this support to rely on,” says Mercedes. “I mothers. It makes sense that they have don’t know what I would have done, especially in the first few months; it their own group.” would have been a lot harder.”

Baby & Me at To register, call 604-619-5276 or Collingwood email singlemoms@ywcavan.org.

Neighbourhood For more information on YWCA House (5288 services for single moms across the Joyce Street, Lower Mainland, visit ywcavan.org/ Vancouver) will singlemothers.

Next submission deadline: May. 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

A new support group for new moms and moms-to-be starts in June at the Collingwood Neighbourhood House.

Traditional Japanese Food Udon, Sashimi, Maki Sushi, Bento Box and Donburi Lunch specials under $9.00 Dinner specials under $12.00 Serving the Renfrew-Collingwood Community for over 20 years

Take Out Menu

Tel: 604-433-1303 Open 6 days a week (Closed Mondays)

11:30-2:30 and 5:00-9:00

Free Parking

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

May 2013

A traditional recipe for Greek Orthodox Easter

by Rania Hatzioannou This year, the Greek Orthodox Easter will be celebrated on Sunday, May 5th.

If you have never witnessed the service, take a walk down to St. Nicholas and Dimitrios Greek Orthodox Church on Boundary and East 29th on Friday, May 3rd or Saturday 4th to see for yourself the ritual that is two thousand years in the making.

The highlight of the Epitaphios (lamentation icon) services on Good Friday is the Lament of the Tomb. It is carried outside the church as the congregation follows the procession and the chanting is hauntingly melodic. This service begins shortly after 7:00 pm, is outdoors, and lasts just over an hour.

On Saturday night, the services are also primarily outside to accommodate the mass crowd that attends. It begins late in the evening. As the service approaches its climax (midnight), the congregation arrives with new candles. The priest calls for the congregation to take light, and one by one they go to the priest for the lighting of the candles. This spreading of light across the darkness is a spectcular sight. If you wish to witness this, arrive around 11:00 pm. At midnight, the Resurrection hymn can be heard, all of this is outdoors. In Greece and Cyprus, the hymn is barely heard as fireworks explode and church bells ring. The celebration begins and everyone cries out, “Χριστός ανέστη!”

(Christ is risen!)

Easter Sunday is a full day of feasting following the 40 day Lent.

Greeks gather with their families and feast. Cypriots also gather with their families and extended families and a day of feasting begins.

The process of cooking is as important as the meal itself.

Souvla is the main course on Easter Sunday. It is slow-grilled on a spit.

The main dish is usually souvla.

This is a lamb dish slow-grilled on a spit.

The fire is started hours before the meat is prepared. It is best to use charcoal or ash/twigs from grapevine branches.

The recipe itself is simple: Use prime tender lamb. Cut it into chunks about the size of a rubik’s cube. Season the meat with oregano, salt and pepper. Skewer the meat, brush with olive oil, and slow-heat it over several hours on a souvla spit.

at most other holidays throughout the year.

Souvla is a simple, yet delicious main dish. Traditionally the men sit around the spit to monitor the heat levels. The women prepare the side dishes such as horiatiki salad*, and lemon potatoes. When the souvla is ready, it is served with lemon wedges, salad, potatoes, and yogurt.

*Horiatiki Salad: Horiatiki salad is a traditional Cypriot recipe for a classic salad made from a blend of tomatoes, onion, cucumber, with feta cheese in a dressing made of olive oil, Cypriots enjoy souvla as the main coriander and flat-leaf parsley. Olcourse on Easter Sunday, as well as ives are added just before serving.

C o m e a n d celebrate M o t h e r ' s Day with us a n d e n j o y a huge s e l e c t i o n of menu choices.

S e r v i n g great home c o o k e d meals e v e r y d a y.

3684 Lougheed Hwy.

604.299.7701

5

6

May 2013

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Events Calendar Get involved in Renfrew-Collingwood Gongs & Coffee at Slocan Park

Coffee, music and dancing! Rain or shine from April through September, the Highland Gong Society & Eka Coop will be hosting Gongs & Coffee in Slocan Park on most Sundays from 10:00 am to 12:00pm.

Come out and meet the Montagnard, a diverse Indigenous community of Jarai, Bahnar, Ede and Bunong families who have arrived in East Vancouver as UN refugees from their ancestral lands in the Annamite rainforests of Southeast Asia – today, southeast Laos, northeast Cambodia & the Central Highlands of Vietnam.

Experience the Montagnard’s sacred gong music, dances and traditional regalia, recognized by UNESCO as an integral piece of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage.

WHERE: Art House in Slocan Park, just behind 29th Ave. Skytrain Station in East Vancouver.

DATES: Sundays, 10:00-12:00 May 5, 19 & 26 June 9, 16, 23 & 30 July 7, 14, 21, 28 August 4, 11, 18 & 25 September 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 More info: http://www.eka.coop/ash/gongs_ coffee_at_slocan_park_rain_or_shine

7

May 2013

Collingwood Neighbourhood House

5288 Joyce Street at Euclid Phone: 604-435-0323 We are closed on May 20, Victoria Day Sundays, May 5, 12, 19, 26 Badminton 19+, 10:15 am - 12:15 pm Wushu Ages 6 -17, 5:00 - 6:30 pm Mondays, May 6, 13, 27 Seniors’ Yoga Drop-in, 9:30 - 10:30 am Seniors’ T’ai Chi (24 Form), 10:30 - 11:30 am Seniors’ T’ai Chi (48 Form), 11:45 am - 12:45 pm Zumba, 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm Seniors’ Wellness Group, 1:00 - 3:00 pm (A variety of activities and trips. Times vary.

Pick-up schedule at reception.)

Children Volleyball, 4:00 - 5:30 pm Jazzercise, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Volleyball, 8:15 - 10:00 pm

Open House: Renfrew Ravine and Park Master Plan

Check out Vancouver Park Board’s proposed trails, maps and plans for Renfrew Ravine and Renfrew Community Parks, based on feedback received during public engagement events and in collaboration with community partners including the Reflecting Still Creek Art and Stewardship Project.

Monday, May 13, 4:00-7:00pm Slocan Park Fieldhouse 2750 East 29th Avenue To view project updates, and comment on open house display materials, please go to vancouver.ca. Questions? Contact Debra Barnes, debra.barnes@vancouver.ca or 604-718-5852.

Collingwood Branch Library 2985 Kingsway at Rupert St., 604-665-3953

Book Club for kids aged 9-12. Last Meeting: May 8, 3:30-4:30 PM. Pre-registration is required for Book Club. Phone 604-665-3953 to register.

Spring Storytimes at Collingwood: Babytime (0-18 months), Thursdays 10:15 am, Apr 4-May 16 Toddler Time (18 months-3 years), Thursdays 11:15 am, Apr 4-May 16 Preschool Storytime (3-5 years), Fridays 10:45 am, Apr 5-May 17

Bruce elementary school parents raise funds for lost playground SPRING CARNIVAL for GRAHAM BRUCE ELEMENTARY THURSDAY, MAY 23, 4:007:00PM At the basketball courts on Moscrop Avenue (between Joyce & Boundary) The Vancouver School Board has advised Graham Bruce Elementary School that their primary playground structure is too old, and will therefore be removed ... but not replaced.

Bruce is not the only school that has suffered from cutbacks. Parents at Bruce are taking action with their first ever spring carnival. All proceeds go towards the purchase and installation of a new, safer kindergarten playground.

The Bruce Parent Advisory Committee thanks parents, teachers and students for signing up to volunteer their time, to create a successful school/community event. Lots more parent participation is required.

Everybody is invited to join in classic carnival games, face painting/tattoos, bouncy castle, dunk tank, balloon pop, hole-in-one golf, cotton candy, popcorn, BBQ hot dogs and much more. Take satisfaction in knowing that your support will help provide physical recreation and years of fun to the kids in our community!

Tuesdays, May 7, 14, 21, 28 Bellyfit, 9:30 - 10:30 am Parent & Tots, 10:00 - 11:45 am Jazzercise, 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm Pre-Ballet and Creative Dance, 3:40 - 4:25 pm (Ages 2 1/2 - 3 1/2) 4:30 - 5:30 pm (Ages 3 - 5) ZumbAtonic, 3:45 - 4:30 pm (Ages 4 - 7) Children Gymnastics, 4:15 - 5:15 pm (Ages 5 -7) 5:15 - 6:45 pm (Ages 7 - 10) Children Soccer (Ages 9 - 12), 5:30 - 6:30 pm Hatha Yoga, 6:45 - 8:15 pm Zumba, 7:15 - 8:15 pm Wednesdays, May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Chinese Classical Dance, 9:30 - 11:00 am (Adults & Seniors) Seniors’ Strength & Stretch , 11:00 am - 12:00 noon 32 Form T’ai Chi Sword, 11:15 am - 12:15 pm (Session 1) Zumba, 12:05 - 1:05 pm 32 Form T’ai Chi Sword, 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm (Session 2) Floor Hockey, 3:45 - 4:45 pm Basketball, 4:50 - 5:50 pm (Ages 9 - 12) Children Gymnastics, 5:00 - 7:00 pm (Ages 11+) Jazzercise, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Zumba, 7:15 - 8:15 pm Badminton, 8:30 - 10:15 pm Thursdays, May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Seniors’ Yoga Drop in, 9:30 - 10:30 am Parents and Tots, 10:00 - 11:45 am Seniors’ Coffee, 10:30 am - 12:00 noon Jazzercise, 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm Children Soccer, 3:45 - 4:45 pm (Ages 6 - 8) Chinese Classical Dance for Children, 4:30 - 5:30 pm Hatha Yoga, 6:45 - 8:15 pm Drop-in Badminton (Adult), 6:45 - 8:30 pm Drop-in Soccer (Adult), 8:30 - 10:00 pm Fridays, May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Zumba, 9:30 - 10:30 am Seniors’ T’ai Chi (24 Form), 9:30 - 10:30 am Seniors’ T’ai Chi (48 Form), 10:45 - 11:45 am Seniors’ Strength and Stretch, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm Chinese Classical Dance (Adults & Seniors) 12:00 noon - 1:30 pm Zumba Gold, 12:40 - 1:40 pm Jazzercise, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Saturdays, May 4, 11, 18, 25 Children Gymnastics, 9:15 - 10:15 am (Ages 5 - 7) 10:15 - 11:45 am (Ages 7 - 10, intermediate and beginners) Jazzercise, 10:00 - 11:00 am Spanish with Fun (Ages 3 - 5), 10:00 - 11:30 am Clay Adventure, 10:00 - 11:00 am (Ages 2 1/2 - 5) 11:00 am - 12:00 noon (Ages 6 & up) Fun with Math, 10:30 - 11:30 am & 11:30 - 12:30 pm Guitar Class for Pre-Teen, 10:45 am - 12:45 pm Zumba, 11:15 am - 12:15 pm Spanish with Fun (Ages 9 - 11), 11:45 am - 1:00 pm Piano Class, 12:30 - 1:15 pm (Ages 8 - 9) 10:30 - 11:15 am & 11:30 - 12:15 pm (Ages 5 - 7) Senior Drop-in Badminton, 2:30 - 4:15 pm

tentative

10

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

May 2013

Van Tech music teacher honoured with Teacher of the Year Award Early April, Mark Reid, the head of fine arts department and director of bands and choir at Vancouver Technical Secondary School (Van Tech), received the MusiCounts Teacher of the Year Award from Canadian star Shania Twain in a special ceremony.

MusiCounts is a music education charity that is associated with the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) and the Juno Awards. Footage from Reid’s award presentation aired during the TV broadcast of the 2013 Juno Awards on April 21.

The recipient of the Teacher of the Year Award receives a $10,000 cheque, a $10,000 contribution to the recipient’s school music program, a trip to the Junos and a crystal statuette.

“Receiving this award has reassured me that my values and beliefs relating to music

Reid has also brought in musicians like Carly Rae Jepsen, Tavish Crowe and members of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and sponsored the creation of the band program at Queen Alexandra Elementary.

education are shared by others,” Reid says. “Our program thrives because our doors are open to all students of all abilities and interests.”

“We always knew he was a star and now everyone else knows it, too,” says January Wolodarsky, whose daughter, Tuedon, takes band with him.

“Working at Van Tech is an experience that brings a smile to my face every day,” Reid says. “Students appreciate and engage in the learning experiences teachers work hard to provide. I’m proud of my students’ achievements and interest in the realm of concert band and choral music.”

In the seven years he’s taught at Van Tech, Reid has helped grow the senior concert band and the orchestra program, revive the choral program, and create the Van Tech Musicals in Concert musical theatre program, the Drumline program and the touring brass ensemble. Some 600 students—more than one third of Van Tech students—take part in these programs.

Van Tech music teacher Mark Reid receives the MusiCounts Teacher of the Year Award from Shania Twain.

Photo courtesy of MusiCounts

Renfrew / Collingwood

K

C

K

North 

Broadway

2066 Kingsway

E.41st Ave.

Collingwood Insurance Ph: 604.438.9888

5750 Tyne Street

F

Jo yc eS t.

E.33rd Ave.

Ru pe rt St.

E.29th Ave.

J

The Tipper Restaurant Ph: 604.873.1010

E.22nd Ave.

H

Ea rle sS t.

J

Renfrew St.

Nanaimo St.

#116- 2800 E1st Ave. 604.254.5040

Boundary Rd.

1st Ave. Dental Group

Slocan St.

Grandview Hwy.

G

Kingsway F

London Square Dental Centre #220 3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.435.4545

C G

H

F E

F

P & D Automotive Ltd Ph: 604.438.5519

2895 E.22nd Ave.

Joyce Hair Design St.

5156 Joyce

Papa John’s Pizza Ph: 604.310.PAPA

#300-3340 Kingsway

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

11

May 2013

The Seniors Connection She prays and I cook

a Collingwood couple Marino and Librada Lagadi are well-known members of Collingwood Neighbourhood House and its programs. Marino is a regular participant in the CASI walk program and Librada, best known as Lidya, is a community connector at CNH through her support, promotion and communication of its many program opportunities.

The CNH Literacy Outreach series of legacy interviews and personal stories from Collingwood seniors continues with Lidya and Marino’s story of their initial meeting and their subsequent long and successful marriage.

Lidya and Marino first met in 1954 in Quezonisabella, a community that is part of greater Manila in the Philippines. Lidya worked as a government secretary and then as the secretary to Marino’s uncle who was a corporate treasurer.

Marino’s uncle told Lidya that he wanted to introduce her to a “handsome boy” (his nephew), so held a party inviting members of the staff and others. She attended and was expecting Marino to dance with her first, but he ignored her and danced with several of the other women in attendance. Lidya was hurt by this so decided she didn’t like him. Two months later she resigned from her position and moved back with her family in Manoag, Philippines.

Marino was attracted to Lidya but had not asked her to dance with him because she worked on the top floor in administration and he worked in the basement in the rice mill. He felt that she was in a better position than him financially and socially. After she quit and moved away he did some research and found out where she was living.

One day Lidya was sitting on a balcony of the family home, at the top of some stairs, when Marino arrived, all dressed up formally in a barong tagalog.

“One day Marino came and surprised me,” Lidya recalls. “Suddenly, he’s in the stairwell knocking at my door.

As I opened the door a snake came from the box of letters I was holding

Helping seniors live well in Renfrew-Collingwood

Marino and Librada Lagadi,

by Timothy Shay, LOC and I shouted really loud. Marino took a bamboo stick and killed the snake, saying, ‘Now I’m the hero!’ ” Marino immediately talked with Lidya’s parents. Two weeks later his own parents arrived and they all discussed wedding plans. Soon there was a wellattended ceremony held in Our Lady of Manoag Church included the whole barrio: teachers, principals, neighbours.

The celebration continued for two days and a night.

After their marriage Lidya and Marino stayed in Ilocos Norte, Pangasinan, and took up farming rice, peanuts and tomatoes. After some time Lidya grew tired of farming and went ahead to Manila. Her brother offered Marino an auto supply job which he accepted and retained for 20 years. Lidya returned to school and became an elementary education teacher.

Together they parented six children, four boys and two girls, all of them well educated and successful. A truly international family, the Lagadi children live and work worldwide. Marino Jr. lives in London, UK, their daughters Fe and Mary Lou live in the Philippines, son Edwin lives in Las Vegas, USA, and son Robert resides in Saudi Arabia.

When Lydia and Marino immigrated to Canada in 1996, the judge at their citizenship ceremony told their youngest son, Ferdinand, who is a prominent local business administrator living in Vancouver, that they are a “very happy family” and to “take care of your parents,” which he has, providing them with much appreciated familial connection and support.

The senior Lagadis are also the proud grandparents of 11 grandchildren.

Both Lidya and Marino participate in and enhance many Collingwood Neighbourhood House programs and events.

They are positive and productive neighbourhood citizens.

In 2006 the Lagadis celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a ceremony renewing their vows and are now in their 57th year of marriage. When asked what the key to such a long and happy marriage is, Lidya promptly replied, “We never quarrel. We talk about everything but never quarrel and we keep Jesus and our family central in our lives.”

Later the same day, while walking with Marino on a CNH CASI walk, I asked him the same question. He stated, “She prays, I cook … and we never quarrel.”

Timothy Shay coordinates the Renfrew-Collingwood Literacy project.

Lidya and Marino celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a ceremony renewing their marriage vows.

‘Better at Home’* has arrived at Collingwood Neighbourhood House *Formerly called Community Action for Seniors’ Independence (CASI).

Affordable Services for Seniors in Renfrew-Collingwood: o Walking Club – Meet people and get some exercise! Meet in the lobby at Collingwood Neighbourhood House on Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:30am. Please call ahead or check the bulletin board for this month’s schedule. Free! o Seniors Shuttle Service – To/from doctor’s appointments and errands in the community. Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays. Our bus is wheelchair and scooter accessible. o Light Housekeeping and Yardwork – Get some help around your home with basic household chores like vacuuming, washing the floors, windows, and tidying up the yard.

Call to register and discuss affordable rates: 604-435-0375 Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce St., Vancouver

Jenny, Marjorie, Catalina and Cecile invite you to celebrate Max’s first anniversary here in Collingwood this May 25 and 26.

Many of you many not know this, but this community’s very own Max’s Restaurant is to the Philippines what McDonalds is to the West. Celebrating their first anniversary here in our community, our Max’s is the second location in Canada; the first was Toronto in 2011. This month’s Who’s Who focuses on four of Max’s employees: Cecile, Catalina, Marjorie and Jenny.

Marjorie Fraulein G. Morin is the branch manager. When not busy with Max’s, she can often be found using Skype to talk with her husband and kids back home. She enjoys exploring Vancouver and going to the movies on Tuesday nights. She came here one year ago from Manila to open this new Max’s location.

Max’s has an interesting history going all the way back to 1945, after the Second World War, when Maximo Gimenez, a Stanford-educated teacher, befriended the American occupation troops that were there, inviting them home for a drink or two. Later on, the troops insisted that they pay for their drinks, prompting Maximo to open a café. Maximo’s niece, Ruby, created a special recipe for chicken that became an instant favourite for the GIs. Soon, the Filipino public heard about the delicious chicken—and Max’s Restaurant was born.

Also coming from Manila one year ago is kitchen supervisor Jenny Pedrosa. A trained chef, Jenny worked for 14 years for Max’s in Manila.

She has three children and enjoys movies and swimming.

In addition to the Max’s famous fried chicken, the menu includes seafoods, beef and pork—classic Filipino favourites as interpreted by Max’s Restaurant; all-day breakfasts; Max’s Merienda (brunch); soups, salads, beverages and desserts—sweet sensations to soothe your palate after a sumptuous meal.

Max’s is the perfect place for all of your group events. Whether it’s a birthday party, wedding, baptism, conference, meeting or office event, Max’s has two function rooms that seat 50 customers each. For larger functions, both rooms can be combined to accommodate a group of 100 people. Each climate-controlled room has audio-video equipment, which includes an automated screen and LCD projector, wireless microphones and digital sound system.

How do Marge and Jenny like living here this past year? They love it.

“The people are friendly and the weather is nice.” And they love the cherry blossoms *in full bloom at the time of this interview.

Cecile Pratt is one of the co-managing directors. Born here in Vancouver, she has two children, a girl and a boy aged 15 and 10 who keep her busy.

The other co-managing director, Catalina Estrada, came to Vancouver in 1966 from the Philippines. With two children of her own, she enjoys travelling.

Along with the rest of the staff, these four ladies have been very hard at work this past year, ensuring that this location of Max’s lives up to the standards and reputations of Max’s everywhere. Good job you guys!

This month, look for Max’s Mother’s Day promotion as well as their anniversary specials: May 25 and 26.

CBIA UPDATES l Collingwood Goes Green Reusable Shopping Bag The “shop Collingwood” purple reusable shopping bags are a hit. It’s good to see shoppers all around the neighbourhood with their bag. If you didn’t get your bag please drop by our office #300 – 3665 Kingsway to pick one up or get one at Collingwood Days May 25th at the Information Booth.

Collingwood Days 2013 – 10th Anniversary May 25th There is still time to participate in the 20th annual Collingwood Days. Give us a call or email or go to the www.collingwooddays.com l

You will find a full event schedule on this edition of the Renfrew Collingwood Community Newspaper. Entertainment on the Main Stage all day; Pancake

Breakfast from 9:00 – 11:00am; Roving performers; Collingwood Gardens; International Marketplace, food, arts and crafts; BMX Air Show; Paws Squad games; activities; dunk tank; Dog Show; Historical Display and much much more. l Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/shopcollingwoodvancouver and follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/shopcollingwood @shopcollingwood

Facebook and Twitter Contest: Post or tweet a picture of yourself or family at Collingwood Days this May 25th and you’ll be entered into a draw to win dinner at Max’s Restaurant, value $50.

*This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Business Improvement Association

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Read On!

13

May 2013

A news page for Renfrew-Collingwood learners

Learning English is like…  … being an artist. – Rachel Wang … cooking – I enjoy it but I’m not very good at it! – Winnie Wen … swimming – I hate it! – Joyce Pang … building a pyramid. – Rie Hamanaka … watching a movie. – Grace Yu

Read On! has a web page. You can:  Read the articles Listen to the articles

ELSA 

English Language Services for Adults (ELSA) is for permanent residents and refugees.

Students get 300 to 400 hours to complete each level, up to level 7. Some schools have free childminding for children 18 months to five years old. Students study topics like health care, education and transportation. All classes are free.

 Print worksheets

New students take an assessment test, then register in the school of their choice. To book an assessment test, visit #208 – 2525 Commercial Drive in Vancouver. For more information, call 604-876-5756 or go to www.elsanet.org.

www.cnh.bc.ca/ rccnews/readOn.html

Level 1

Students can learn in a classroom or individually with help from a teacher. Students whose skills are below grade 10 can take Foundation courses to prepare for the academic courses. There is a $20 material fee and 80% refundable deposit for textbooks.

Langara English for Academic Purposes (LEAP) at Langara College and College Preparatory English (CPE) at Vancouver Community College prepare ESL students for college and university. Courses are free for permanent residents and citizens but there are some fees for registration and assessment.

English for work 

Vancouver Community College offers several programs for people who need to upgrade their English for work: - English for Professional Advancement is for professionals who were trained abroad.

- Cooking, Health Care and Baking and Pastry Arts offer employment skills combined with ESL. - Academic Prep for Health Sciences (ESL) helps students improve their reading and writing to get into Health programs.

Citizenship and ESL 

People applying for Canadian citizenship have to prove that their English is a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 in listening and speaking. Students who finish ELSA 3 or higher can use a report card from their school. Applicants who are not in ELSA can pay to take a test. The CELPIP test is one hour and costs $150 (www.celpiptest.ca). The IELTS exam is about $290.

My Mom is gorgeous When she wears her pretty dress Out to pick flowers.

Reading levels on this page

The Vancouver School Board has six Adult Education Centres. They teach people who haven’t graduated from high school and want a BC Dogwood Diploma (the name of the high school graduation diploma in our province). They also teach people who want to improve their skills or get prerequisites for college or university.

College prep courses

Mom

by Vicki Li, Age 12, Grade 6

High school English 

To make an appointment for an assessment at South Hill Education Centre or for more information, phone 604-713-5770.

by students in the Creative Writing Class taught by Rania Hatzioannou, Fridays at Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Level 2

 

Level 3



Free ELSA English Classes!

Mom She is very kind.

Takes care of me every day Cooks delicious food.

by Sharon Lee, Age 10, Grade 4

CNH has level 3 and 4 classes in the Renfrew-Collingwood neighbourhood. Classes are Monday to Friday, 9-12 or 12:303. There is free childminding for children 18 months to 5 years old.

Classes are free for all permanent residents, convention refugees and people with some work and study permits.

To register or for more information, call 604-451-8321 and leave a message.

Dear Mom, I love you very much. I wish I could buy you flowers. I wish I had my own money for doing chores. Thank you for making our family dinner. When I was little, you fed me food. I'll try not to throw up because I threw up often.

I appreciate the egg tarts you bring home from work. You are the #1 Mom in the world.

Love, Eason Ou Yang, Age 10, Grade 5

14

May 2013

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Collingwood Neighbourhood House

HIGHLIG H TS

Something for every senior at CNH Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) offers many programs for seniors including everything from Kundalini and Gentle Chair Yoga, Chinese Classical Dance and Strength and Stretch to Tai Chi, Badminton and a free Walking Club.

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

Seniors Recreation Programs are available, depending on the program, by drop-in or class sets. Fitness passes for drop-in cost $23.50 for 12 sessions.

Thur. 2 May Chicken kebab/veggie skewer with rice, Salad, Semolina cookies Tue. 7 May White bean soup, Tuna sandwich, Salad, Coconut macaroon

Seniors are served first at CNH’s Community Lunch, offered Tuesdays and Thursdays. Seniors pay just $5 for a full, nutritious mean including a main course, dessert and coffee or tea. Eatin or take-out are available.

32 Form Tai Chi Sword is a weaponry form of Tai Chi Chuan in which the sword is considered an extension of the body. The On Thursday mornings from 10:30 am – integration helps to direct body energy through the sword and noon seniors enjoy a coffee and crafting enable movements which are smooth and graceful. Wednesdays, 11:15 am – 12:15 pm and 12:30-1:30 pm. Sessions start May 2. Cost: social event for just $1.25. $30 for 10 sessions. Must buy your own sword and the prerequisite is 24-Form Tai Chi, 48-Form Tai Chi or experience in Tai Chi Chuan.

And the Seniors’ Wellness Group, which is welcoming new members, meets Mondays from 1:15-3 pm.

Activities include Bingo, movies, travel presentations and guest speakers on a variety of topics. Depending on the event cost of attendance ranges from $2 - $2.50.

Thur. 9 May Breaded basa fillet in creamy lemon sauce, Roasted seasonal vegetables, Salad, Shortbread cookies Tue. 14 May Green pea and mint soup, Ham/veggie frittata, Salad, Cranberry cookies Thur. 16 May Meatloaf (vegetarian option), Roasted potatoes, Steamed vegetables, Chocolate cookies Tue. 21 May Carrot soup, Chicken/veggie burger, Baked potato, Salad, Rice pudding Thur. 23 May Pasta with creamy curry sauce and prawns, Salad, Vanilla pudding

For a full range of programs for seniors visit http://www.cnh.bc.ca/programs/ seniors-programs Please contact Coordinator Kat Cureton at 604-4350323 if you have any questions.

Tue. 28 May Yellow lentil soup, Salmon panini/grilled cheese sandwich, Salad, Honey and sesame seed cake The Walking Club offers participants the opportunity to get some exercise while meeting new people. Dress for the weather and bring an umbrella. Meet in the CNH lobby Monday and Wednesdays at 10:30 am. Free.

Zumba Gold combines catchy Latin tunes with choreography for an aerobic workout that feels like a dance party. For beginners, seniors or anyone needing modifications in their exercise routines. Fridays, 12:40-1:40 pm.

Cost: $2.35 for seniors.

Thur. 30 May Chicken or vegetable cutlet on quinoa, Salad, Apricot tart

Bellyfit offers full-body benefits CNH has just started a new program: Bellyfit.

Bellyfit offers a full-body cardio exercise. In the first half hour of the class, participants are led through a series of movements that are infused with Belly Dance, Bollywood moves and African Dance to burn calories, relieve stress and get the sweat flowing.

During the second half hour participants enjoy sculpting, toning and tightening with Pilates-inspired core work, a deep, relaxing yoga-inspired stretch and mindful Mudra Meditation.

This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Participants should wear fitness attire and athletic shoes and bring a water bottle. CNH will provide yoga mats.

Bellyfit takes place on Tuesdays, 9:30-10:30 am and Fridays, 6-7 pm. Cost: $5.25 drop-in or $4.29 with a pass. Please register in advance for a free class set to take place on Friday, May 3 from 6-7 pm at CNH, 5288 Joyce Street. For more information please call 604-435-0323.

15

May 2013

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

  

 



 

 

Friday, May 3

For children 3-5 years of age. Children must be born in 2010 or of age during the month they register. Call for more details.

3 Easy ways to register Starting Monday, May 27th at 9:00am

1.Click

One Day Crafts in our Lobby!

Register online www.vancouver.ca/renfrewrec

 (4-10yrs)

Pay by MasterCard or Visa Starting Tuesday, May 28th at 9:30am

Drop in to our centre at 2929 East 22nd Avenue To register in person.

Pay by cash, cheque, credit card or debit

Starting Wednesday, May 29th at 9:30am

Sun, May 12 12:00-2:00pm

2. Come In

3. Call

604 257-8388, ext 3 To register by phone Pay by MasterCard or Visa

 

Health Fair held on Wednesday, April 3rd.

This was a jointly support event with Adrian Dix and Renfrew Park Community Centre. There were 26 booths set up with local health agencies and 500+ attend this event.

May Flower Luncheon

55+yrs

There will be a tasty lunch served, entertainment and door prizes.

Wed 12:00-2:30pm May 8 $9/person

“Ultimate Aquafit” Move for Health Day Friday, May 10th 9:30-10:30am

Pool & Fitness Centre

1:00-5:00pm

1:00-5:00pm

Centre Area

11am-6:00pm

Closed

Victoria Day Dance

Get your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Mon 1:00-4:00pm May 20

Vancouver-Kingsway Votes In the Vancouver-Kingsway Votes initiative, local youth like Cassandra Ly, Abigail Peleaz, Emily Chan and Tesicca Truong aim to explain the voting process and increase voter turnout in the Vancouver-Kingsway riding for the upcoming election on Tuesday, May 14th, 2013 by 1%.

The youth are working to raise the voter turnout in Vancouver-Kingsway from 40.5% during the last provincial election to 41.5% this year. So register, learn about the candidates and their platforms, vote and help reach the goal!

Voter registration ends after April 23 but if you are not registered you can still vote in this provincial election. You may bring the same voter identification documents listed below to the poll. (There will be a voting place at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, for example. During a provincial election you are allowed to vote at any poll in your riding.)

If you do not have the necessary identification, you may have somebody vouch for you. The voucher must be one of the following (from the Elections BC website): • Registered as a voter in the same electoral district and able to produce the necessary identification documents • A spouse, parent, grandparent, or adult child, grandchild or sibling of the voter • A person having authority to make personal care decisions in respect of the applicant What to bring when you register or go to vote? ● One document issued by the government of B.C. or Canada that contains the voter’s name, photograph and



Early registration for some camps will begin on May 6th, call or come in for details! (prices and schedules are subject to change, please contact the office for current information)

Summer Adventures Camp (6-12yrs) @ Renfrew Centre

Mon-Fri Jul 2-Aug 30 $105/5 day week 9:00am-3:00pm with before camp and after camp extensions available.

Join us at Renfrew Pool for a fun-filled hour of Aquafit taught by 3 popular Renfrew instructors. Regular admission

Sun, May 19th Mon, May 20th

Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Come join us for free games and crafts!

55+yrs

$8/person

Environmental Wonders Camp (6-9yrs) @ Falaise Hall Mon-Fri Jul 2-Aug 23 $88/5 day week 9:00am-2:00pm with after camp care available (ends at 3pm on Thursdays due to out trips) Art, Drama, Music and Sports Camps throughout the summer for all ages! Call for more details mid May.

by Emily Chan

place of residence (e.g., B.C. Driver’s Licence, B.C. Identification (BCID) OR ● One federal document certifying that the voter is registered as an Indian under the Indian Act (Canada) (i.e., Certificate of Indian Status) OR ● At least two documents of a type authorized by the Chief Electoral Officer, both of which contain the voter’s name and at least one of which contains the voter’s place of residence (e.g., bank or credit card statements, student report card) Why is it important to vote?

It is one of many ways to exercise one’s democratic rights by electing an individual who represents the community’s values, voices, and principles. It is also only the first step to becoming an engaged citizen.

The organizers of this initiative hope that community members will be encouraged to learn more about the political process, ensuring that it is inclusive of all diverse voices.

Who are the current candidates in VancouverKingsway?

At press time, the candidates are as follows. However, we encourage readers to keep updated at www. elections.bc.ca to see the full list of candidates as they are nominated. ● Liberal Party: Gurjit Dhillon ● NDP: Adrian Dix ● Green Party: Gregory Esau ● Conservative Party: David Hutchinson

Youth (and a couple of adults) from VancouverKingsway attended the orientation session on helping people register to vote in the upcoming provincial election.

Want to learn more information about the candidates running in this election?

Please visit each of the candidates’ individual websites to find out more about their electoral platforms and stances on issues that you’re passionate about. You are also encouraged to attend the all-candidates meeting set for Thursday, May 2 at 7:00 pm at Collingwood Neighbourhood House (5288 Joyce Street, Vancouver) to hear from the candidates themselves. Meanwhile, please email vancouverkingswayvotes@gmail.com with any questions or concerns.

Please visit: http://www.elections.bc.ca/docs/map/ redis08/ED/VKI_ED.pdf to view a map of the Vancouver-Kingsway riding.

16

Many reasons to enjoy local food Is your child a picky eater or just not interested in vegetables? One way to get your children interested in vegetables is to plant a garden, watch it grow and enjoy eating them. You can also visit farmers’ markets and pick berries during “u-pick” season (mainly June to September) at local farms.

Here are some of the benefits of growing your own food or buying locally grown food: • Taste • Health • Learning about how food is grown and where our food comes from • Provides an opportunity to connect with your child • Supports BC farmers and producers • Better for the environment Growing your own food doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Start with a few packets of seeds and some basic tools e.g., a small shovel, trowel and watering can. Allow children to choose the vegetables they want to grow. Try starting seeds indoors. If you don’t have much space, start with a container garden or a community garden in your neighbourhood.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

May 2013

by Kathy Romses, Registered Dietitian, Evergreen Community Health Centre

your neighbours and create new friends when you participate in these programs.

Try planting these foods that are easy to grow: • Beans • Peas • Tomatoes • Squash • Lettuce • Herbs Once you have harvested the food, plan and prepare a snack or meal with your child that uses the foods you have grown.

You can also freeze, can or dry foods for the winter season.

For more information: • Visit these websites to help you find out what foods are in season and to locate farmers’ markets www.bcfarmersmarket.org and www. getlocalbc.org • Collingwood Neighbourhood House Food Security Institute www.cnh.bc.ca/get-involved/ foodsecurity/ • For a list of community gardens, visit http://cityfarmer.org/vanccomgard83. html#vanccomgard • West Coast Seeds provides information on how to grow vegetables and fruit www. westcoastseeds.com • Take your family on a self-guided Circle Farm Tour to visit a variety of farms, markets, fairs, and other special events www.circlefarmtour.com

Rainbow Salad Eat a rainbow of vegetables and fruits to get a wide variety of nutrients. Get your children involved in putting local, seasonal vegetables and fruits in a glass bowl in colour groups.

Red – apples, beets, red onion, cranberries, red peppers, raspberries, strawberries, tomatoes Orange/yellow – apples, carrots, nectarines, peaches, pears, yellow peppers, corn, yellow tomatoes The Collingwood Neighbourhood House Food Green – apples, asparagus, green beans, broccoli, Security Institute is involved in a variety of green cabbage, cucumbers, kiwi, lettuce, green gardening activities and food skills workshops.

Visit their website at www.cnh.bc.ca/get-involved/ onions, peas, green pepper, spinach, zucchini Blue/purple – blackberries, blueberries, plums, foodsecurity/ to learn more about gardening purple cabbage workshops, community gardening, seed swaps, White – cauliflower, mushrooms, onions, parsnips, Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program and turnips other interesting activities. You can also meet

You can start with a container garden or a community garden in your neighbourhood, like Cheyenne community garden shown here.

Photo by Stephanie Lim