MAY 2014
COMMUNITY NEWS
RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com
Collingwood Days May 24-31
COLLINGWOOD
Fresh and local: Weekly Wednesday VanTech market garden starts on May 28 by Marilou Bourdages
DAYS
“This is as local as it gets,” says Marilou Bourdages, community coordinator with Fresh Roots Urban Farm Society. “Our vegetables are grown in VanTech Secondary School’s soil by students and neighbours, and are then sold back to the neighbourhood community, right on the school grounds!”
FESTIVAL!
May 31, 2013
Fresh Roots Urban Farm Society, in collaboration with the Vancouver School Board (VSB), is transforming underutilized school grounds into schoolyard market gardens, creating productive farm fields that are used as outdoor classrooms by the school community.
The Dog Days of Collingwood!
11am to 4pm
Carleton Elementary 3250 Kingsway
A year ago, Fresh Roots and the VSB signed a first of its kind licensing agreement, plowing the way for onequarter-acre schoolyard market gardens at David Thompson and Vancouver Technical (VanTech) Secondary Schools.
GAMES! BMX Bike Air Show! Arts & Crafts! kick PRIZES & Raffles! Artisans’ Village! Collingwood Days celebrations off on Saturday, May 24 with an Arts & Performance on Kingsway. Following that is a fun-filled week which an Art Crawl, an exotic PANCAKE BREAKFAST at will 9am! include Food Vendors! International Market! Spice Roads Teahouse night of music and a family movie night atMUSIC Carleton culminating in theExhibits! main events on Saturday, & Dance! DOG SHOW! Heritage Cultural PERFORMANCES! May 31. For more information see www.collingwooddays.com.
Or check out the Collingwood Days www.facebook.com/collingwooddays www.collingwooddays.com special insert inside!
For more info contact the Collingwood BIA (604) 639-4403 info@shopcollingwood.ca
Presented by:
Continued on page 16
Sponsored by:
Tips to lock out crime
Page 2 Family tree: Memory box
Page 5
Graham Bruce Carnival
Page 7
Friend 2 Friend play centre
Page 13
2
May 2014
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Out and about in the yard? Lock out crime Easy, inexpensive and effective tips to protect from theft by Constable Heather Brown Spring has sprung, the grass has riz I wonder where the flowers is? Ogden Nashs’ poem reminds us that spring is upon us and many of us are heading outside to clean up our yards and finding just where our flowers is. Along with cutting the grass and planting our flowers, we are opening up our doors and windows to let in the fresh air and to feel the warmth of the sunshine. However, while we are enjoying the sense of springtime freedom, others are, too, but for different reasons. Thieves are out there looking for the easiest opportunities to steal. And, those opportunities exist where people leave doors or windows insecure and items left out in the yard. Did you know that last year, access in about half of our residential break and enters was gained through insecure doors and windows? That’s right, people just did not lock up. So to enjoy your spring and summer and to reduce the chances of being a victim of crime, the following tips are suggested to protect your property from break ins and thefts .Best of all, these tips require little effort and are very inexpensive and yet effective. • Keep your doors and windows locked whether you are in the house, out in the yard or just out. This includes locking those doors and windows on second floors. • Keep your shed and garage locked. • Do not leave valuable items such as keys or cell phones near doors or windows where they are easily seen and within easy reach. • Secure your sliding glass doors. This is easy and inexpensive. To do so, place a wooden dowel in the bottom track to prevent
the sliding door from being slid open. To prevent sliding glass doors from being lifted off the tracks, simply install two screws in the top track to a depth that still allows the door to slide but cannot be lifted high enough to be lifted out of the track. • Use motion sensor lights. • Keep trees and shrubs trimmed to ensure clear visibility. • Use gravel on pathways and garden beds as the sound caused when walking on gravel may discourage intruders. • When you finish your yard work, clean up and put away and secure all of your gardening equipment. This includes ladders, lawnmowers and trimmers. • Likewise, lock up and secure other outdoor items such as bikes. • Get to know your neighbours! This is one of the cheapest and most effective forms of crime prevention. Neighbours watch out for one another and recognize those people who do not belong. • Report crime and any suspicious behaviour the police. Oh, and did I say lock your doors and windows! Should you have any questions about target hardening your home, please call the staff at the Collingwood Community Policing Centre, just south of the Collingwood-Joyce Skytrain station, at 604-717-2935. Constable Heather Brown is a 26-year member with the Vancouver Police Department and is our neighbourhood police officer who works out of the Collingwood Community Policing Centre.
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
3
May 2014
Sometimes I can and sometimes I can’t Artists with disabilities talk about practice Fine Line Project Wednesday, May 7, 8:00 pm (doors open at 7:30) Slocan Hall, 2750 East 29th Ave, Vancouver Find more information at facebook.com/KickstartDisabilityArts Wheelchair accessible. ASL interpretation.
sometimes i can and sometimes i can’ t
ar tist talk & digital presentation May 7
Persimmon Blackbridge Cat l’Hirondelle Geoff McMurchy
Cat l’Hirondelle: “I tell Colin or Katelan my vision and they translate it into form with their hands. Although my pieces wouldn’t exist without my vision, others now influence the outcome.”
L I N E project Kickstart Disability Arts & Culture the F I N E L I N E project Kickstart Dis Persimmon Blackbridge: “When it started I felt like ‘if I have to live with this I’ll be a different person in five years.’ It’s now five years later and yes, I’m a different person. But you get used to it. You do what you can, and sometimes you can’t.” the F I N E L I N E project Geoff McMurchy: “I find that april to december 2014 whatever type of art I wish to Slocan Hall, 2750 East 29th Avenue (beside the 29th Avenue Skytrain Station) engage in must be apportioned May 7th 8pm doors open at 7:30 admission (sliding scale) $3 to $10 from a limited amount of time andI canAand arnivalSometimes ucsometimes and energy.” tion I can’t: artist talk & digital presentation Spring C
brate Nootka's 50th Birthd e l e C e ay! m o C
Cat is a multimedia artist who entered Emily Carr art school in midlife, with experience in jewelry, ceramics and fabric arts, and then had to leave when she was diagnosed with cerebella ataxia. Persimmon is a VIVA winner, award-winning writer, sculptor and video artist, living with kidney failure. Geoff’s work in disability arts includes founding Kickstart Disability Arts & Culture, Vancouver’s disability arts organization. He is a sculptor and dancer and quadriplegic. The obvious question is “how do they do it?” The next questions are “what happens to the art?” And even “whose art is it?” Cat, Persimmon and Geoff will face these questions together at a panel and digital presentation on May 7, facilitated by artist, teacher and social activist Bernadine Fox. The artists will present images of their work at this event. Assistance, scheduling and energy levels will be part of a frank and informal discussion. This panel is the first event in the Fine Line series, addressing the slippery borders in disability art. Presented by Kickstart Disability Arts & Culture.
What are the implications for artistic creation when two people collaborate on one person’s idea? This is just one of many issues artists with disabilities face in their work. The three artists on this panel have years of experience in art making, and will discuss obstacles they face in their work, and how they overcome them, from the concrete to the philosophical.
SATURDAY, MAY 3rd, 2014 10:00am to 3:00pm Visit facebook.com/kickstartdisabilityarts to learn more about this series Nootka Elementary School
image: Defying Gravity by Cat l’Hirondelle
3375 Nootka Street, Vancouver Face Painting | Bouncy Castle | Dunk Tank | Carnival Games | Vancouver Aquarium Touch Tank Local Firehall | Community Police | Obstacle Course | Hot Dogs, Pizza, Popcorn | Cake Walk | Bake Sale 50/50 draw | Silent Auction | Community Booths | Gift baskets and much more Save your clothes for the drop off donation drive!
brate Nootka's 50th Birthd e l e C e ay! Com Carnival and Spring
Auction
SATURDAY, MAY 3rd, 2014 10:00am to 3:00pm Nootka Elementary School 3375 Nootka Street, Vancouver Face Painting | Bouncy Castle | Dunk Tank | Carnival Games | Vancouver Aquarium Touch Tank Local Firehall | Community Police | Obstacle Course | Hot Dogs, Pizza, Popcorn | Cake Walk | Bake Sale 50/50 draw | Silent Auction | Community Booths | Gift baskets and much more Save your clothes for the drop off donation drive!
brate Nootka's 50th Birthd e l e C e ay! Com Carnival and Spring
Auction
4
May 2014
The other guy’s opinion: On service
COMMUNITY NEWS
by Robert F. Edwards
The mission of this non-profit publication is to provide the residents, businesses and organizations of Renfrew/Collingwood with a medium for community communication.
In the good old days, not that far in the past, the word “service” was part of doing business.
Paul Reid: staff writer and layout coordinator Lisa Symons: sales and distribution coordinator Julie Cheng: editorial coordinator
These days you are charged for service by the tax department (GST) and you get no service or very little wherever you go. An example is not that long ago when you needed gas, a young man would come out to fill up your gas tank, check your oil and washer fluids, all at no charge for service. Today, you fill up your own gas tank and if you’re brave enough to lift the hood on your car to check the oil and washer fluid, this is Vancouver’s Premium Ballet School all compliments of service of yourself; however you will be charged GST for fulfilling you Summer Dance Camps own self-service.
Contributors: Lloyd Abella, Marilou Bourdages, Heather Brown, Cari Chan, Robert F. Edwards, Diego Gomez, Loretta Houben, Anika Ivijesuriya, Sanj Lal, Paul Reid, Peter Yu, Victor Zhao
PACIFIC DANCEARTS
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: May 10 The Renfrew/Collingwood Community News is an initiative of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH).
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
From age 3 and up
July 28 - August 1
Summer School 2014 From Elementray Level and up
The Joy of Dance
August 11 to 22
604.738.8575
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
www.pacificdancearts.ca 3626 East 4 th Avenue, Vancouver BC V5M 1M3
When you get a bill from Hydro or the gas company, and many other companies online, they send it by email. If you wish to have a printed copy, it is at your expense of printer, paper and ink. Now, there are other institutions that have gone one step further; if you would like to have a hard copy or printed copy of the invoice, they will send it to you in the mail at a cost of two dollars for this added service. Service in the old days was a natural part of doing business. Today if you want something that a business has, you’re obligated to using self-service. Businesses refer to the internet and their webpage. In many cases, they’ve eliminated their phone numbers and others have even eliminated their addresses. In closing, I would like to say in the old days there were service-employees of the companies you were doing business, and they would ask if they could help you; however, today is self-service and you pay GST tax for no service. Robert F. Edwards is a longtime resident of Collingwood and has written for the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News for many years.
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
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May 2014
Family tree ideas for creating a memory box
EYE CARE CENTRE
by Loretta Houben A fun way to keep your family history alive is to create a memory box. Many sizes of boxes are available and can be purchased from Michael’s craft stores, Dollarama or Winner’s Homesense. They range in price from $3 to $25. The focal point of the box could be a favourite photo or a personal keepsake. In my case I chose the earliest photo available of my maternal grandma, Helen Brutke. She was a talented seamstress so I lined the back of the box with fabric similar to the era in which Loretta Houben created this memory box as a tribute to her she did most of her sewing. grandma Helen. I glued the fabric to the back of the box and added lace, our relatives alive, especially celebrate the upcoming First which I had purchased years if they lived long ago or are World War centenary. My ago at my grandma’s favourite ones you never met. Younger fabric store in Salem, Oregon. I great uncle, William Williams, generations will appreciate the included vintage buttons and a who I wrote about in the April care and thought which went 2014 Renfrew-Collingwood scrap of antique lace from her into making them, and one day Community News Family Tree button box. they will be precious family Tips article, died after being heirlooms. wounded in battle in Salonika, I played around with where to Greece in 1917. I plan to use a place the framed photo and the other items, and had fun while larger memory box and include Next month’s installment will a photo, a copy of his war medal focus on searching old journals doing so! Whenever I look at or diaries, notebooks and even card, photo copies of Salonika, this special memory box, I receipts for family clues. a photocopy of the newspaper wish I had been able to know clipping describing his bravery Grandma Helen, but she died when I was 10 days old. In this in battle, and possibly his Loretta Houben is a member of the way I can’t forget her, thankful original war medal which was British Columbia Genealogy Society sent to his family after his that I inherited her love of and enjoys finding ways to keep her death. (If I can coerce it from sewing. family history alive and well. Please my dad’s possession.) check the society’s website at www. A memory box also makes a bcgs.ca for free meet-ups once a Visual mementos are a lovely wonderful gift for a loved one. month. (Remember Mother’s Day is on way to keep the memory of May 11th!) For my dad’s 80th birthday I bought a large box and included photos from all decades of his life, embellished the photos with scrap book images from the dollar store, and used coloured lettering from Michael’s craft store. It was fun to choose the pictures that represented his long life.
Come together right now with Freshslice Pizza
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Graham Bruce Elementary Excellence in Education
dynamic programs for K-7 students
This year I’m working on a very special project to
3633 tanner st. Vancouver 604-713-4778
bruce.vsb.bc.ca
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
May 2014
Happy Mother’s Day
Poetry from Rania’s Creative Writing Class at Collingwood Neighbourhood House Nothing Is Better than Mom
Great Moms Great moms are really nice. One thing that moms can do is embarrass you. Nothing Is worse than that. By Lloyd Abella, age 8, grade 3
Mom Nice and cheerful Intelligent Caring Every day she plays pranks on me
Mom gives me lessons for the future. Loving. Unbelievably kind and nice. Great food she cooks, Unless it’s egg salad.
By Anika Ivijesuriya, age 9, grade 3
Mom She takes care of me, and helps me. I help her, too. She is beautiful.
By Victor Zhao, age 9, grade 4
Creative Writing for Pre-teens is taught on Friday evenings at Collingwood Neighbourhood House. For more information, contact 604-435-0323.
By Diego Gomez, age 9, grade 3
Renfrew / Collingwood
K
C
K
North
Broadway
E.41st Ave.
K
Collingwood Insurance Ph: 604.438.9888
F
G
Kingsway F
London Square Dental Centre #220 3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.435.4545
C G
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5750 Tyne Street
Jo yc eS t.
Ru pe rt St.
Ea rle sS t.
E.33rd Ave.
2066 Kingsway
E.22nd Ave.
H
E.29th Ave.
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The Tipper Restaurant Ph: 604.873.1010
Renfrew St.
Nanaimo St.
J
K
Boundary Rd.
Sushi Miga 4441 Boundary Rd Ph:604.563.0722 Open Seven Days A Week 11:30 am-9:30 pm
Slocan St.
Grandview Hwy.
F E
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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
What’s happening at Collingwood Branch Library, 2985 Kingsway Children’s Programs This Spring enjoy lots of free kids’ and family-friendly programs at the Collingwood Library. Lego Block Party – drop in Express your creativity with Lego! A program for children aged 5-12 years. Lego provided (and Duplo for smaller hands). Please note children under 8 years old must be accompanied by a guardian. Tuesday evenings, May 6, June 3, 7:00–8:00 pm
Family Board Games – drop in Board games and puzzles for the whole family always available in the Children’s Area. Family Storytime Stories, rhymes and songs for the whole family. Thursday mornings, until May 15, 10:30–11:00 am Babytime Songs, rhymes, lap play and books for baby. Thursday mornings, until May 15, 11:30 am–12:00 pm
Adult Program ESL Book Club 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. Tuesdays, May 13, June 10, July 8, August 5, September 2, 30, 7:00–8:30 pm. Registration is required. To register please contact the Collingwood Branch at 604-665-3953.
Graham Bruce Spring Carnival playground fundraiser Friday, May 23, 4:00-8:30 pm, 3633 Tanner Street, Vancouver by Sanj Lal, Bruce Parent Advisory Committee The second annual Spring Carnival at Graham Bruce Elementary school will once again raise money for a new playground for the primary kids. Last year, the carnival was a huge success, attracting more than 200 people from around the Collingwood/Joyce community. Come out and enjoy a fun-filled family day of hot dogs, carnival games, dunk tank, bouncy castle and raffle prizes. The event has come together with the support of local businesses who have donated refreshments and raffle prizes: Price Smart, Starbucks, Charlie’s Chocolate Factory, Burnaby Palace Restaurant, Safeway, Costco and Canadian Superstore, Canadian Tire, Trail Appliance, 7-11, Playland and Vancity.
Local Collingwood Poet: Refugee Song Book Signing Join Collingwood resident Lawrence Feuchtwanger for the launch of his new book of poetry titled, Refugee Song. Sunday, May 4t, 6:30 pm Cottage Bistro 4470, Main Street, Vancouver, BC (Food and drinks available for purchase) More info here:http://www.signature-editions.com/index.php/ books/single_title/refugee_song
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May 2014
Collingwood Neighbourhood House
5288 Joyce Street at Euclid Phone: 604-435-0323 We are closed on May 19, Victoria Day Sundays Badminton (Ages 19+), 10:15 am - 12:15 pm Wushu (Ages 6 - 17), 5:00 - 6:30 pm Zumba, 12:45 - 1:45 pm Mondays Seniors’ Kundalini Yoga Drop-in, 9:15 - 10:15 am Seniors’ T’ai Chi (24 Form), 10:30 - 11:30 am Better at Home Walking Club, 10:30 am Seniors’ T’ai Chi (48 Form), 11:45 am - 12:45 pm Zumba, 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm Seniors’ Wellness Group, 1:15 - 3:30 pm A variety of activities and trips. Times vary. Pick-up schedule at reception. Basketball, 4:00 - 5:30 pm Jazzercise, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Bellyfit , 8:15 - 9:15 pm Tuesdays Bellyfit, 9:30 - 10:30 am Parent & Tots, 10:00 - 11:45 am Jazzercise, 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm Zumba Gold, 2:15 - 3:15 pm Hatha Yoga, 6:45 - 8:15 pm Pre-Ballet and Creative Dance, (Ages 2 1/2 -3 1/2), 3:40 - 4:25 pm (Ages 4 - 5), 4:30 - 5:15 pm Zumba Kids (Ages 3 - 7), 3:45 - 4:30 pm Children Gymnastics, (Ages 5 -7), 4:15 - 5:15 pm (Ages 7 - 10), 5:15 - 6:45 pm Children Soccer (Ages 9 - 12), 5:30 - 6:30 pm Zumba, 7:15 - 8:15 pm Wednesdays Chinese Classical Dance (Adults & Seniors) , 9:30 - 11:00 am Rhythmic Gymnastic (Ages 3 1/2 - 5), 9:45 10:45 am Better at Home Walking Club, 10:30 am Seniors’ Strength & Stretch , 11:00 am - 12:00 noon 32 Form T’ai Chi Sword (Session 1), 11:15 am 12:15 pm Zumba, 12:05 - 1:05 pm 32 Form T’ai Chi Sword (Session 2), 12:30 pm 1:30 pm Gentle Chair Yoga, 1:00 - 2:00 pm Floor Hockey, 3:45 - 4:45 pm & 4:50 - 5:50 pm Jazzercise, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Zumba, 7:15 - 8:15 pm Drop-in Volleyball, 8:30 - 10:15 pm Children Gymnastic (Ages 11+), 5:00 - 7:00 pm Thursdays Seniors’ Kundalini Yoga Drop in, 9:15 - 10:15 am Parents and Tots, 10:00 - 11:45 am Seniors’ Coffee Social, 10:30 am - 12:00 noon Jazzercise, 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm Children Soccer (Ages 6 - 8), 3:45 - 4:45 pm 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 Zumba, 9:30 - 10:30 am Seniors’ Bo Jan Cho Exercise, 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 Zumba Kids, 3:45 - 4:30 pm Creative Writing for Teens (Ages 8 - 11), 5:45 7:45 pm Bellyfit, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Zumba Toning, 9:15 - 10:15 am
COLLINGWOOD
DAYS FESTIVAL!
May 31, 2013 The Dog Days of Collingwood!
11am to 4pm
Carleton Elementary 3250 Kingsway
GAMES! BMX Bike Air Show! Arts & Crafts! PRIZES & Raffles! Artisans’ Village!
PANCAKE BREAKFAST at 9am! Food Vendors! International Market! MUSIC & Dance! DOG SHOW! Heritage Exhibits! Cultural PERFORMANCES! For more info contact the Collingwood BIA (604) 639-4403 info@shopcollingwood.ca
www.collingwooddays.com Presented by:
Sponsored by:
www.facebook.com/collingwooddays
An Old Fashion Fair with A Multicultural Flair!
FESTIVAL WEEK ACTIVITIES: May 24 Saturday, May 24,
th
to 31 st
Monday, May 26
* Art and Performance along Kingsway: Juggling, singing, musicians
* Art Workshop: check online for more info at www.collingwooddays.com.
and visual art! Tyne & Joyce, 1pm to 3pm
Tuesday, May 27
Sunday, May 25
* Graham Bruce Choir, Community Luncheon:
* Art Crawl: check online for brochure & map at www.collingwooddays.com
Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street, noon-1pm
* Alex Chisholm & Carmen Rosen Art in the Garden:
* Spice Road Tea House, Musical Performances:
* Suzo Hickey Landscape Painting/Multidisciplinary Art:
Wednesday, May 28
Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street, 6pm-8pm, free event!
Tour of landscape art & mosaics, 3153 E. 20th Ave. 11am-1pm
2884 E. 22nd Ave. (Access through the back lane only), 11am-1pm
* Performance at Bamboo Café – check online for info at www.collingwooddays.com, 5103 Joyce Street, 7pm-9pm
* Art House in the Field, Group Show: Weaving/Painting/Design, Yoko Tomita, Jolene Andrew & more! 2750 E. 20th Ave., 11am-1pm
Thursday, May 29
* Alexis Seto, Artist/Photographer/Mixed Media:
* Performance at community lunch – check online for info at www.collingwoodays.com:
3607 Vanness Avenue (entrance through side pathway), 11am-3pm
Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street, noon-1pm
* Athena Art Students, Installation Pieces:
* Rupert Common: Spoken Word and Music, East Vancouver Live Jam:
* Dante Comoglio, Italian Cultural Centre
Friday, May 30
Slocan Field House , 2750 East 29th Avenue, 7:30pm-9:30pm
Collingwood Neigbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street 3075 Slocan Street, May 24 & May 25, 10am-4pm
* Family Film Night, Hachi: A Dog’s Tale, Sir Guy Carlton Elementary, 3250 Kingsway, Free event, Refreshments available for purchase, 7pm
* Art in the Park, Paintings by the Collingwood Block Watch Group: Park at Euclid and Taunton Street, 10am-4pm
Saturday, May 31
* Festival Day, Sir Guy Carlton Elementary, 3250 Kingsway, 11am-4pm.
* Group Show, Collingwood Neighbourhood House,
Pancake Breakfast by donation, 9am-11pm. See below for all of the fun festival activities!
5288 Joyce Street, 1pm-3pm
COLLINGWOOD DAYS FESTIVAL: Saturday
May 31, 11am - 4pm @ Carleton Elementary (Kingsway & Joyce)
MAIN STAGE:
EVENT TIMES:
Music and Dance between 11am-4pm
9:00am - 11:00 11:00 - 4:00 11:00 - 4:00 11:00 - 4:00 11:00 - 4:00 11:00 - 4:00 11:00 - 3:30 11:30 - 3:30
Blessing by Wes Nahanee Lee Morin, Emcee with… The Highland Gong Society The Zhang Dance Group The Windermere School Choir and more!
Pancake Breakfast (by donation) International Marketplace Collingwood Heritage Pavillion Kids Zone Activities & Games Food Court Artisans’ Village BIA Raffle Face Painting & Balloon creations by Bent Air
BMX AIRSHOW:
* Check online for more schedule info at www.collingwooddays.com
12:30pm - 1:00pm
1:30pm - 2:00pm
2:30 pm - 3:00pm
PAWS SQUAD DOG AGILITY SHOW: 11:45pm 3:00pm
POP-UP CITY HALL: 2:30pm - 4:00pm K I N G S WAY
Main Stage DJ
E P
School Building #1
E Construction Zone
Green Thumb Theatre
Food
i
Court Pancake Breakfast Fire Truck Display
1 - 3 pm
Collingwood Heritage Pavilion: Art, History
Face Painting Bent Air
Balloon making
& Storytelling Exhibits
Collingwood Gardens School Building #2 Volunteer Tent
Ticket Booth
LEGEND
Kids Zone
* Bouncy Castle * Carnival Games & more!
Paws Squad Dog Show
E
For more info, contact the Collingwood BIA Office at 604.639.4403 or email: info@shopcollingwood.ca, or visit www.collinwooddays.com
JOYCE ST
GYM
Performers Preparation Area
Raffle Prizes
Arts & Crafts
Artisans’ Village
International Marketplace
BMX Bicycle Airshow
MCKINNON ST
E
E
Entrance
P
Priority Parking (Seniors & Disabled)
i
Information Lost & Found First Aid
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Read On!
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
May 2014
A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners
ELSA Is Now LINC
Read On!
Since 1998 newcomers to B.C. have taken ELSA classes to learn English. ELSA stands for English Language Services for Adults. The classes were funded by (got money from) the province of B.C.
Read the articles
has a web page. You can:
Print worksheets http://renfrew collingwood community news.com/ category/read-on/
Starting in April 2014 the federal government took over the funding for these free English classes. ELSA is now LINC, which stands for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada. Now newcomers in B.C. will use the same English program as most other provinces in Canada. Most of the content of the classes will be the same in LINC, but the levels will be a bit different. ELSA Literacy level = LINC 1, ELSA 1 = LINC 2, ELSA 2 = LINC 3. Another difference is that, in LINC, students are given unlimited hours. As long as a student is attending class regularly, he or she can continue as long as they need. Also, there is no longer any level testing. Instead, the teacher checks with the students each week and looks at their work. If they seem ready, they can move on to the next level. With LINC students are able to attend classes at more than one school at a time and can be on a waitlist at one school while attending another. As with ELSA, new students will first need to get tested to determine their LINC level. In Vancouver this can be done at Western ESL Services, Suite 208, 2525 Commercial Drive (near the Broadway Skytrain station).
ESL Classes in Your Neighbourhood Are you new to Canada? Do you want to learn English for free? You may be able to take the LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes through Collingwood Neighbourhood House. They have levels 4, 5, 6 and 7 EFW (English for Work). The level 4 and 5 classes are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. The level 6 and 7 classes are Monday through Friday from 12:30 to 3:00 pm. The Collingwood Neighbourhood House LINC classes take place in First Lutheran Church at 4625 Wales Street. Call 604-451-8321 for more information. If you don’t have time to take full-time classes, you can try the English Corner Community Classes. The classes are on Sundays from 6:30 to 8:30pm in the Collingwood Neighbourhood House staff lounge. Call Helen Su for more information at 604-412-3705 or 604-435-0323 ext.222.
English Classes G P L T G P V T D N I O P G W
O C R G E I K F U E S E E Q D
V R S O I S E T N E K N Q L E
E F E S V D T I Z H W G E Y G
R Z L M E I M I Z E K L M C H
ATTEND ENGLISH FULL-TIME GOVERNMENT PROVINCIAL UNLIMITED
N C J R O R N W N K T I I E P
M N A Q E C K C F G S S T Z X
E L F T E T W C I D H H L K D
N C E D Q Y K E R A M U L V W
T D G C Y J A U N A L T U V O
U N L I M I T E D Q N N F S B
G N I D N U F Z V P N W W F P
A F D H P Q A T T E N D R I X
R F O M S A C G W A M U K S H
DETERMINE FEDERAL FUNDING NEWCOMER TESTING
U E I W G L X V Q D G G T A W
Here is Don (left) promoting one of his latest brown belts in Vancouver, Dan Clement. Don Whitefield founded West Coast Martial Arts 10 years ago with the goal to open up realistic Martial Arts like Muay Thai Kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to all Canadians. “Many gyms I trained at where tough and the mood was very serious and it is still like this to this day, like in old movie boxing gyms where you don’t go to have fun but to fight. “I had to open my gyms since mixed martial arts (MMA), for good reasons, has a really bad reputation with many Vancouverites. Many gyms attract gangs, steroid, mentally unstable and drug users making it impossible for normal Canadians to discover how much they can improve their lives physically and mentally by training realistic martial arts.” West Coast Martial Arts screens all new members very carefully and will request a criminal record check if needed before training can begin.” West Coast Martial Arts is now the #1 club on the West Coast. Don currently owns three successful Martial Arts gyms and 19 affiliated gyms. “With us, students of all ages (special classes for tots) learn faster and safer than in any other club. “We have created the right environment and we have structured classes lead by the most supportive instructors you can imagine. They will motivate you, push you and make sure you reach your fitness goals. Our positive vibe will get rid of your daily stress and you will make new friends that share your new life style the day you start training with us!”
to train in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Submission Fighting in 1997. Don started his training with Team Megaton Diaz and Marcus Soares and also had the opportunity to train with some of the greatest BJJ teachers in the world during his countless visits to BJJ schools across North America. Don is a certified Carlson Gracie Instructor with a Jiu-Jitsu black belt from Ricardo De la Riva in his main academy in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2009. Born in Nuremberg, Germany, Don moved to Canada in 1995. He lives and breathes a Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle.”That’s why our website name is jiujitsulife. com. As a martial artist I am of course always working on my personal development professional development by competing and training with the best in the world. “While most of the Martial Arts champions live in Los Angeles and Rio de Janeiro, two of my favourite personal development teachers are Vancouver’s own Eckhart Tolle and John Kehoe.” Don is married to Nash Cajee who is the founder of Oxygen Yoga and Beach Yoga and they have two children. “As you can imagine we live a very healthy, athletic lifestyle. Let’s just say that our Living room is actually a gym.”
Don grew up in Germany where he studied Judo in his youth. As an adult he practised boxing before moving to Canada, where he started
What else does WCMA offer? Fundamental Programs specifically made for new students; a 30-day satisfaction guarantee on regular memberships; a first free private class to check it out with no obligation or pressure; top instructors with 100% dedication to your success; the opportunity for low income families to experience the empowering benefits of martial arts at very low rates.
CBIA UPDATES
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Collingwood Days Saturday, May 31st 2014 from 11:00am – 4:00pm. Go to the website www.collingwooddays.com for vendor applications and sponsor information. See 2 page insert (pages 8 & 9 ) for full event schedule and check the website for new editions.
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9:30 – 11:00am - Pancake Breakfast – served by the Collingwood Community Policing Centre 11:45am and 3:00pm – Paws Squad Dog Agility Show 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 pm - BMX AirShow 11:00 – 4:00 pm – International Marketplace and Food Court & Historical Pavilion Open
Collingwood Jr. BIA Spring Event Collingwood Earth Walk and Sidewalk Sale – April 26, 2014 11:00am – 1:00 pm Thank you to the Collingwood businesses that participated in the Collingwood JR. BIA’s Earth Walk and Sidewalk Sale Participating businesses: Vancity, H and M Tax and Accounting, Seven Eleven Kishu River Sushi, Bell Mobility, UPS Store, A Special Thank you to their Sponsors: Safeway, TD Canada Trust
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Other Jr. BIA events: Collingwood Days Hamburger Stand and Canada Day Cake Ceremony
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Music and Entertainment, peddle car races. Come and visit the first ever Pop Up City Hall. Arts and Crafts in the Artist Village. Games and activities for everyone. It’s a free family event and everyone is welcome. See you there.
2nd Collingwood International Film Festival – 2014 Collingwood International Film Festival Schedule. To kick off Collingwood Days the first movie will be: May 30 – Carleton Elementary School Gym – Hachi A Dog’s Tale Check back here in the June issue for more dates in June
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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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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
May 2014
Helping seniors live well in Renfrew-Collingwood
The Seniors Connection
Seniors take a sweet tour of Charlie’s Chocolate Factory A group of seniors got a special tour, organized by Collingwood Neighbourhood House, of Charlie’s Chocolate Factory by Charlie himself. The chocolate factory and store is located at 3746 Canada Way, Burnaby, just off Boundary. Thank you to Peter Yu, a participant from the Renfrew Collingwood Better at Home Walking Club, for the wonderful photos.
Renfrew-Collingwood
Better at Home 家中安享计划 帮助老年人独立自主地生活
Supporting Seniors In Our Community Renfrew-Collingwood Better at Home provides non-medical support services to promote seniors’ independence. Fees on a sliding-scale based on income; seniors on a low income may be eligible for free service. Free Walking Club Seniors’ Shuttle
Happy Mother’s Day
Light Housekeeping & Yard Work
Come and ce l e b r a t e Mother's Day w i t h u s a n d enjoy a huge selection of m e n u c h o i c e s .
老年人接送 打理轻家务和庭院活儿
CNH offers other seniors programs, i.e. seniors’ wellness group, community lunch, yoga, Tai Chi, and more.
Serving grea t h o m e cooked meal s e v e r y d a y.
3684 Lougheed Hwy.
行走俱乐部
To learn more, please contact:
604-435-0375
604.299.7701
Or visit us at 5288 Joyce Street
Talia Mastai
Tmastai@cnh.bc.ca
Kat Cureton
Kcureton@cnh.bc.ca
Better at Home is funded by the Government of British Columbia.
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Second play centre site critically needed for children with autism and their peers Local RenfrewCollingwood charity turns away up to 10 children a week due to the high demand for their unique and innovative integrated peer play programs.
in September 2012. The programs include early childhood, afterschool, weekend, spring and summer camp Integrated Play Groups, as well as free parent training, support groups and training for professionals.
“Of course we knew when we launched our East Vancouver Play Centre in 2012 that the programs were very badly needed in our community, but we had no idea we would reach capacity less than a year after opening,” says Heather McCracken, the founder and executive director of Friend 2 Friend Social Learning Society. “Since January 2014 we have turned away more than 60 families. As a parent of a child with autism, I know all too well the heartbreak and worry of the waitlist.”
The Centre is the first of its kind to combine the award-winning Integrated Play Groups, SCERTS and Friend 2 Friend Autism Demystification models into comprehensive, inclusive programs for children with autism and their peers and siblings. These evidencebased models help all children (those with and without special needs) improve social communication, emotional regulation and peer social play, which are the cornerstones to healthy development and lifelong learning and relationships.
Friend 2 Friend Social Learning Society launched their state-of-the-art Play Centre at 2941 Kingsway
“Any family can access our programs, regardless of their child’s needs or abilities. All
Don Davies, MP Vancouver Kingsway
Happy Collingwood Days!
Special thanks to all the volunteers for another great community festival!
2951 Kingsway Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5R 5J4 Tel: 604-775-6263 Email: Don.Davies@parl.gc.ca
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May 2014
@DonDavies
of our programs are offered to families at one-third of the actual cost or completely free of charge whenever possible. These programs are essential for any child suffering from peer isolation, rejection or bullying within their school or community setting. For children with autism and related needs, I am sorry to say the need is great,” states McCracken. Friend 2 Friend is now seeking funding and support from the community for the launch of their second Play Centre site in January 2015. The second location will assist in meeting the staggering demand for their programs by allowing the society to more than double the number of children currently being served, as well as add in new teen programs. Friend 2 Friend is a nongovernment funded, non-profit charity that has been designing and delivering their unique and innovative Autism Demystification and Integrated Play Groups to children and families in B.C., Canada, the U.S. and abroad for more than 12 years, with satellite organizations in Alberta, Vermont, San Francisco and another underway in Germany. Friend 2 Friend Social Learning Society was founded in 2002 by Heather McCracken — a parent of three, including a son who has autism. For more information, visit www.friend2friendsociety. org or follow on Twitter @F2FHeather, @ F2FPlayCentre
The following is a paid advertisement by Adrian Dix, MLA for Vancouver/Kingsway Our Community Health Centre is at Risk Evergreen Community Health Centre – at Joyce and Crowley in our neighbourhood – provides crucial primary care services in our neighbourhood. Right now, it needs our support. Vancouver Coastal Health is shutting down Primary Care (doctors/nurse practioners) services at Evergreen, South Vancouver and Pacific Spirit Community Health Centres. The result – thousands will lose their doctors, many vulnerable people will have a difficult time accessing services, and communities such as ours will lose vital health care. Worse, the solution will cost taxpayers more. Vancouver Coastal Health recently commissioned an independent external review of the community health centres that serve about 13,000 people across the city. This independent review recommended against cutting primary care services at Community Health Centres. Four years ago, when Carleton, Bruce and Collingwood Elementary Schools were threatened with closure, our community came together to support them and save the schools. We need to do this again to save primary care services. Please contact our office at 604-660-0314 if you have been informed that your services at Evergreen will be changing. 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. Stay In Touch! My office, located on 5022 Joyce St., is currently staffed with two Constituency Assistants happy to assist with any questions or comments on any provincial or community issues, services or agencies. Please feel free to visit, call me at 604660-0314 or send an email to adrian.dix.mla@leg. bc.ca.
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May 2014
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Collingwood Neighbourhood House
HIGHLIG H TS
Gentle Chair Yoga is for everyone
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.”
As yoga continues to gain popularity in the lower mainland, new types of classes are being designed to make it accessible to everyone. From Prenatal, to Meditative to Hatha, different variations of yoga make it possible for everyone to enjoy its health benefits. On Wednesday afternoons, Collingwood Neighbourhood House offers Gentle Chair Yoga classes. Gentle chair yoga is a form of yoga that is quickly becoming a preferred method of yoga for seniors and individuals with physical challenges such as arthritis, chronic pain and limited mobility. Gentle chair yoga provides the breathing, stretching and relaxing techniques that you can get from a traditional yoga class, but rather than using a mat, a chair is provided for balance and support. Gentle chair yoga goers can either stand for certain poses, or they can do the upper part of the exercise while sitting. Marie, the gentle chair yoga instructor at Collingwood, focuses on stress, breathing techniques and tools that the students can use in their daily life, “For many it’s challenging to let the mind relax and let go of worry and tension, yoga is really about learning to be present and being aware of our thoughts and feelings in order to deal with life’s ups and downs,” she says. Along with its relaxation benefits, gentle chair yoga helps increase stamina, flexibility, muscular strength and joint range of motion; it also empower individuals and builds confidence.
May menu 2014 Thurs 01 Salmon in dill cream sauce on rice veggie option salad, apple pie Tues 06 Tomato soup tuna salad sandwich salad, crème caramel Thurs 08 Roasted chicken /veggie option quinoa salad, coconut macaroon Tuesday 13 Cream of broccoli soup quiche lorraine/veggie option salad, walnut cookies Thurs 15 Meat loaf/veggie loaf mashed potatoes salad, pear & almond tart fruit mousse
If you’ve always been curious about yoga but have been worried about physical strain or other physical limitations then gentle chair yoga is a great way to explore the exercise and its benefit.
Tues 20 minestrone soup chicken/veggie panini salad
Gentle chair yoga classes take place on Wednesdays from 1:00pm to 2:00pm, the cost of the class is $2.35
Get moving on May 10 Mark your calendars - May 10 is move for Health Day, and we are encouraging everyone to get out and get moving! Move for Health Day is an international event created in 2002 by the World Health Organization to promote physical activity. Join people and communities from around the world in promoting the importance of exercise.
COMMUNITY LUNCH
incorporate more movement into your life? Here are some suggestions: Dance: Collingwood Neighbourhood House hosts several drop-in dance classes such as Zumba, Jazzercise and Bellyfit. All of these classes are a great way to burn calories, tone muscles, improve coordination and have fun.
Collingwood Neighbourhood House is hosting a free “Move for Health: Hatha Yoga and Meditation” class on May 10 from 10:00 to 11:15am. Space is limited so we ask that you please register at the front desk in advance.
Sports: If you want to improve your hand-eye coordination, make new friends and sweat then perhaps a drop-in sports class is for you. Collingwood offers dropin Volleyball, Soccer and Badminton for all skill levels.
Want some more ideas on how you can team up with Collingwood Neighbourhood House and
For a full list of our drop-in schedules check out our website: www.cnh.bc.ca
This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House
Thurs 22 Sushi Salad, Coffee jelly Tues 27 Creamed beets borscht soup pulled pork /veggie sandwich salad, chocolate cookies Thurs 29 Spaghetti and meatballs veggie & tomato sauce salad & garlic bread, fruit & ice cream
LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cnh.bc.ca FOLLOW us on Twitter: @collingwoodnh
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May 2014
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Project CHEF and Greater Vancouver Food Bank announces in-kind partnership Project CHEF, a non-profit program teaching children to Cook Healthy Edible Food in Vancouver elementary schools such as Graham Bruce and Nootka in Renfrew-Collingwood, has found a new home following a recent partnership with the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society (GVFBS). The GVFBS has generously agreed to provide office and warehouse space and assist in the transportation of food and equipment. This will enable Project CHEF to increase its capacity and pursue the additional funding needed to address the current two-year waitlist for the program. This new working relationship will also allow increased community involvement in educating children about healthy food choices. “Changing children’s food choices and diets needs to be a shared responsibility involving the students, the school, the family and the community,” says Project CHEF director Barb Finley. “We are looking forward to working with the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society to build on the success of the program and
expand our work educating families about healthy food choices.” “Having witnessed the positive impact Project CHEF has had on thousands of children, it was without hesitation that we offered our in-kind support,” says Aart Schuurman Hess, CEO, Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society. “Project CHEF is a natural fit with our vision and mission and we are proud to play a role in helping all children in Vancouver learn about healthy food choices.” Project CHEF is a non-profit organization that runs Project CHEF: Cook Healthy Edible Food, a hands-on curriculumbased Vancouver school program aimed at children in kindergarten to grade seven. Since the program began in 2008 it has taught 8,000 children and involved more than 3,000 parent and community volunteers. The program educates children and families about healthy eating. Hands-on cooking programs have been proven to influence children to help improve their diets and prevent obesity. For more information please visit www. projectchef.ca.
The Project CHEF program ran at Graham Bruce Elementary this year. Here little chefs Luciana and Hans carefully measure the flour that they’ll turn into pizza dough. Photo by Barb Finley
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.
Sun, May 18
Mon, May 19
Pool
1:00pm-5:00pm
1:00pm-5:00pm
Fitness Centre
1:00pm-5:00pm
1:00pm-5:00pm
Centre Area
11:00am-6:00pm
Closed
Monday, June 9 - Wednesday, July 2
Pool Closed for annul maintenance. Fitness Centre Mon-Fri .................................. 7:30am-7:00pm Sat & Sun .............................. Closed
Wibit Inflatable Day
Saturday, May 24, 2014 3:00pm–5:00pm
Come and join in the fun! *Regular admission rates apply
Preschool Registration
Friday, May 2nd
Forms will be handed out on the day of registration at 6:00am. If you have been accepted into the class, an appointment will be issued to you to return for the orientation, payments and completed forms.
Badminton Lessons (6+yrs)
Shuttle I Tue 6-14yrs Sat 6-14yrs Shuttle II Tue 6-14yrs Sat 6-14yrs Shuttle III Tue 6-14yrs Sat 6-14yrs
4:00-4:45pm $78/6 sess 1:15-2:00pm $65/5 sess
Richard Le
May 20-Jun 24 15+yrs $81.90/6 sess May 24-Jun 21 15+yrs $68.25/5 sess
4:50-5:35pm $78/6 sess 2:00-2:45pm $65/5 sess
May 20-Jun 24 15+yrs $81.90/6 sess May 24-Jun 21 15+yrs $68.25/5 sess
5:40-6:25pm $78/6 sess 2:45-3:30pm $65/5 sess
May 20-Jun 24 15+yrs $81.90/6 sess May 24-Jun 21 15+yrs $68.25/5 sess
Hatha Flow Yoga (19+yrs) 5:40-6:50pm
May 20-Jun 24
$48/6 sess
Mandarin Lessons (19+yrs)
Basics of Food Thu 7:00-8:30pm Basics of Traveling Thu 7:00-8:30pm
Daisy Meng
May 8-15
$36/2 sess
May 29-Jun 5
$36/2 sess
10:00am-4:30pm May 30
$119/person
Mothers Day Luncheon (55+yrs) Wed
12:00-2:30pm
May 14
$9/person
Movie Matinee “The Sound of Music” (55+yrs)
Tue
12:45-2:45pm
May 20
$1/person
Gluten Free Cooking (55+yrs)
$48/6 sess Hisae McMichael
6:00-7:00pm
Hatha Yoga (19+yrs)
Tue
Fri
Ana Yu May 14-Jun 18
Espirito Santo Mauricio
Sea to Sky Gondola (55+yrs)
Wed
Yogalates (19+yrs)
Wed
1:00-3:00pm
May 21-June 4
Summer Swap Meet (All Ages)
$5/3 sess
Recycle your old goods by finding a new home for them! Please bring your lightly used items and help them find a new home instead of throwing them in the garbage! New and used clean clothes and household items are allowable for sale. No commercial vendors. Su 11:00am-3:00pm July 6 $20/table Registration starts Thursday, May 1st
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May 2014
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Continued from page 1 The schoolyard market gardens are places where knowledge of food and health is shared between generations, cultures and languages. “We have students that come to the field, with elders hand in hand. They translate their grandparents gardening methods – basking in their families rich heritage,” explains Ilana Labow, codirector of Fresh Roots. Teachers also use the garden to achieve BC’s core curriculum objectives in various subjects like biology, physical education and English. These gardens are not just for students. During the summer, neighbours can taste Fresh Roots’ locally grown produce by visiting their Good Food Markets. Starting late May until November, Fresh Roots will run a weekly market stand on Wednesdays from 3:00 to 6:00 pm at VanTech Secondary School. On May 28, for the first market of the year, lettuce, salad mix, radishes and turnips will be waiting for neighbours to take them home.
and carrot seedlings. As the season progresses, the diversity of vegetables will keep growing. Everyone is welcome to drop by anytime and check out what is growing on. “It doesn’t matter what language you speak, nor where you come from,” says Marc Schutzbank, co-director The amazing schoolyard garden at VanTech Secondary, 2600 East Broadway, was of Fresh Roots, “everyone has a built with the help of students. relationship with food.”
Weekly Veggie Boxes!
Support the Schoolyard Market Garden by enjoying a weekly “The food is delicious and box of delicious vegetables. affordable,” says Melanie Pick up will take place at the Beliveau, a teacher and resident VanTech Secondary Good Food in the community. “Every Market, on Wednesdays from produce bought at the Good 3:00 to 6:00 pm. Food Market directly supports • $475 for 24 weeks of veggies; schoolyard grown crops and May – November programming.” • 10% off Fresh Roots’ Good Food Market Neighbours interested in • Sample weekly veggie box supporting the market garden includes: are also encouraged to commit to 1 large leafy green (kale, chard a weekly Veggie Box – customers or mustard) pay up front for the entire season 1 salad creation (salad mix, and in return get an assortment spinach or head lettuce) of delicious vegetables weekly. 1 herb (cilantro, parsley or dill) It is a wonderful way to support 1 root vegetable (carrots, beets local agriculture and ensure that or turnips) families have access to healthy, 1 crop of the week (zucchini, high quality food every week. beans or garlic) The season is already well underway. At VanTech, students and neighbours have been working in the garden since March, boosting the raised beds’ fertility by adding rich compost. The overwintering kale has been completely harvested to create space for this year’s crops. The head lettuce left the greenhouse and is now enjoying the sun outside, next to the beet
Underused school grounds at VanTech has been transformed into a productive market garden.
For more information and to sign up, please visit: www. freshroots.ca
Marilou Bourdages has been passionate about urban agriculture and food for many years. Being able to work at engaging the community in the Schoolyard Market Gardens is a dream come true for her.
VanTech students learn all about growing veggies on their school grounds. Photos courtesy of Fresh Roots