Renfrew-Collingwood Community News May 2018

May 2018

COMMUNITY NEWS

RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com

Celebrating our 15th annual Collingwood Days with playfulness

by Andrea Berneckas

In May 2003, the first official Collingwood Days celebration took place at the Safeway parking lot at Tyne and Kingsway. Before then, a group of creative community-minded residents had been putting together yearly events to bring people together in shared experiences.

In 2000, there was Faces of Our Neighbourhood, an initiative that led residents on a parade from Collingwood Neighbourhood House to Slocan Park for a community celebration.

Mosaic Madness followed in 2001; and in 2002, residents gathered to celebrate the installation of the Renfrew Totem Pole through Nature Meets Art. The interest and need for regular community celebrations and gatherings brought about both Collingwood Days Festival and the Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival, which began September 2003.

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After a couple of years at the Safeway location, Collingwood Days Festival moved to the Sir Guy Carleton Elementary School site, where it remained until 2016. After the closure of the school, the festival made the move to its new location at Gaston Park.

This year’s Collingwood Days invites community members to join in on all sorts of play and games, sports and arts alike, that are being held throughout the community. Photos courtesy of Paul Reid

Throughout the years, the festival has highlighted the unique stories of Renfrew-Collingwood residents, and over time we have based our festival themes on these stories. We have discovered and showcased the histories of individual community members, the natural environment, artists and performers, local businesses and even our dogs!

Read what’s new for Collingwood Days on page 2

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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Collingwood Days: Continued from page 1 What’s new for 2018 This year, we have a particularly fun theme, that of Play and Playfulness – “The quality of being light-hearted or full of fun” – and we invite community members to join in on all sorts of play and games, sports and arts alike, that are being held throughout the community.

Throughout the world there is play.

There are schoolyard games, board games, sports and word games. Music, performance and making art can be playful. While we often think of play as something that is only for the young, play is critical to the physical and social well-being of everyone, no matter their age. This wide-ranging theme allows us the space to celebrate ways of playing from around the world.

play by the students of Dr. George Weir at Collingwood Branch library • Last but not least, Madam Beespeaker, the artist-in-residence at Renfrew Park Community Centre will be holding a Sketch-a-Palooza at Renfrew Community Centre on Sunday, May 27, 1–3:30 pm

Festival day On Saturday, May 26, Gaston Park will be the site of playful activities ranging from live musical performances such as the Wooly Bears Square Dancing, Balkan Shmalkan This year, the festival week begins af- and Vietnamese Fan Dancers; rovter the Victoria Day long weekend, on ing performers such as Lola Loops, Tuesday, May 22; but you can jump- Birds on Parade, and Ariel Amara; start playing by joining Family Board art and craft making with Still Games at Renfrew Library on Sunday, Moon Arts Society and local artists; May 20 from 1:30 to 4:30 pm. as well as games led by InterACTIVE volunteers, Tin Can Studio, Among the many different things and other groups. happening throughout the community are: This is your chance to try out hand• Lego Block Party at the Renfrew ball, bocce, backgammon, hoops, VPL (May 23, 3:30–4:30 pm) and juggling; make paper airplanes • Games Night at the Bamboo Café in the Artisan Village; and enjoy a (May 23, 5–7 pm) variety of multicultural foods. We • Mahjong at Renfrew Park Commu- hope you join in the spirit of play! nity Centre (May 24, 11 am–1 pm) • Open Mic Night and Board Games at Please check our festival insert for First Lutheran (May 25, 5:30-9 pm) further details, or visit • Annual Graham Bruce Carnival www.collingwooddays.com (May 25, 4–8 pm) • Exhibition of art on the theme of

Collingwood Baptist Church invites you to:

LEGO | COMPUTER | HOCKEY | MUSIC THEATRE

TO REGISTER & FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

collingwoodbaptist.org/daycamps or call: 778-775-9378

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

MY STORY

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May 2018

BY MURIEL ANN RIVARD

I wrote this story hoping that someone may relate to it and not feel so alone.

In the 50s I was a very naïve 19-yearold. I met a man who I thought I would be spending my life with. I was very much in love with him. We did everything together. One evening when I was waiting at the bowling alley to meet Roy there, my father came bursting into the bowling alley and asked if I was to meet him and I said yes. My dad said, “you are not to see him anymore” and I asked why. He said a lady had phoned and said she was married to him. I said I don’t believe it and I would confront him to hear what he said. My dad left in a huff.

When Roy got there I asked him and he said he didn’t think that she would follow him to Vancouver as he broke up with her in Alberta. I kept seeing him without my parents knowing. He would be waiting for me outside of where I worked. One evening we were sitting looking out on the water and Roy said let’s go and get married on the Victoria ferry. I was too scared, but really wanted to. How naïve I was.

Consequently I found out I was pregnant and I had to quit work. I didn’t get a chance to tell him I was pregnant so he never ever knew. I was due in August and my parents said I could not keep the baby, I would have to give it up for adoption. They brought me to a social worker who asked me about myself so they could match up my baby with the proper parents. Any correspondence between the adopting parents had to go through the social worker.

My parents sent me to an “unwed mothers home” in May 1956. It was like a dorm. Four pregnant girls to a room, from all over the world, I believe. We had our chores to do. I remember ironing sheets on these long rollers I had never seen before. We had pretty good meals. On a Sunday, drivers would stop and point and yell at us sitting on the porch. That really hurt, but girls just never got pregnant unless they were married, it was unheard of. It did help having lived with girls that were in the same boat as I. Most of them had to give up their babies too. I remember a preacher’s daughter being there.

On the 13th of August my water broke, so they drove me to Vancouver General Hospital, where I had a baby girl, 8 lbs., 11 oz. born at 1:56 am. I had knit a sweater, bonnet and booties for her,

To commemorate the 20-year anniversary of the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News, we’re revisiting past stories that have particularly inspired us.

I selected this story because I was moved by this mothers’ journey and the struggle to cope with the loss of her child through adoption. It was wonderful to read about the triumphant ending that saw them reunite many years later.

When I was a child my two grandmothers were foster parents and one of them eventually adopted one of the children. I was inspired by their love and commitment and know they made a difference when they opened their doors to these children. I also remember thinking about the mothers that had to relinquish their parental rights and wondered what their stories were.

Ann with her daughter and her daughter’s adoptive mother.

I really appreciate hearing one of those stories. I’m also glad that the adoption process is more transparent now and much easier to locate a birth child/parent.

— Lisa Symons, sales and distribution coordinator

also I had written a poem for her.

Consequently, the happy part of this story. When Ramona was 25 I had given everything to the soyears old and I was 45 years (the cial worker to give to the adoptage my mother gave birth to me), ing parents as I was not allowed on Mother’s Day, May 10, 1981, to know their name or where they Ramona had located where I was, lived. I was told that they had met but thought she should go through and married in the Air Force. For my hobbies I had written that I like “Parent Finders” to make the phone call to me. So when I answered the to go horseback riding and that I phone on that Mother’s Day and took piano lessons. I will tell you about that a little later. I also asked the lady on the other end of the phone said, what does August 14th, the parents if one of her names could be Ramona, which is what my 1956 mean to you, well I just about dropped the phone. My 13-year-old brother and I named her. son was wondering what was going on. So I told him when I got off the My mother, sister and aunt came up to see her in the hospital. I was phone. He thought about it for a long time and then said well mom, in the hospital for close to a week.

I guess everyone is entitled to a I really didn’t want to leave as I mistake. would not see her again.

We had a choice if we wanted to see our babies or not. Of course I wanted to. I fed her with a bottle as we were not allowed to breast feed, and they binded up our breasts (I guess), to keep the milk from coming in. Two people (government workers), came to the hospital for me to sign the adoption papers.

One of the hardest things I have ever had to do. I kept telling myself that she would have a better life with the adopting parents, as I would not have enough money to care for her. I was so sad when I came back home. At least my family didn’t have to lie for me anymore.

The following year my eldest sister, (14 years older than me), gave birth to my niece Lori, which was very hard on me.

That was Sunday and the following Friday I met her in Gastown. We just stared at each other for a very long time. Then after the shock we walked with her suitcase for a couple of blocks and she met someone she knew. They said to her, you don’t have to introduce me, that has to be your mother, you look so much like her. I felt quite proud then.

It was such a relief not lying to anyone anymore, after 25 years. Within a couple of days, my brother, his wife and my two sisters got together and bought champagne for our special meeting. Ramona’s adoptive mother had come from Comox on Vancouver Island (her father stayed home as they were in the middle of

moving). I really cried when I met her mother as she thanked me for giving her a wonderful daughter.

I was one of the lucky ones. I was blessed with a second family, her parents, sister-in-law, etc., are like my second family now, I love them dearly.

Her mother is now 94 years old and living in a home in Courtenay, where I go often with Ramona.

Her father passed away a couple of years ago. They made sure that Kim Ramona Orr had a piano and horseback riding lessons. She has two mothers and two brothers.

I see her quite often as she lives close by, with her partner. She is a drama teacher and I go to all her plays. She told me one day that her parents told her at an early age that she’d been adopted and they’d read her the poem I wrote her. She still has everything I gave her. She said it was the poem that prompted her to find me.

Ramona’s adoptive mother had eight miscarriages, gave birth to a daughter who lived about two weeks in June 1956. She received my daughter in August 1956.

As I was separated from my husband when I gave birth to my son, my father asked me if I was going to give him up for adoption. I told him I was married and I could never give up my son or go through what I did with Ramona.

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May 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

We need to build the humans sector 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: Andrea Berneckas, Hussein “DJ A-SLAM” Alidina, Julie Cheng, Lisa Symons, MOSAIC, Muriel Ann Rivard, Paul Reid, Stephen Elliott-Buckley, Tony Wanless

We want to hear from you!

Yes, You! Send comments, community events, press releases by regular post, fax or e-mail.

Suggestions for improving the paper are welcome.

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

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

Next submission deadline: May. 10

Lately I’ve been following and promoting social enterprises. Along with green energy development like solar, wind, tidal and geothermal, I’m looking for the game changers, the vehicles that will bring us to a new world and fix the mindless pursuit of unlimited economic growth and unregulated greed, and Vancouver’s affordable housing crisis.

Here’s something you’ll see more of in the near future. There’s a thread we should be paying attention to for the values that will ground our next career, or our children’s careers, or who we should be supporting in our neighbourhood.

by Stephen Elliott-Buckley

the centre. People are the focus.

Not just customer service, but economic activity designed to make people’s lives more vibrant and rewarding.

Careers in child care, health care, education, counselling, coaching, arts instructors: we need to elevate the value and prestige of these humans professions precisely because they intentionally enrich our communities. These should be our next careers and where we should point our children and grandchildren for their vocation.

Purpose: Beyond the work people do in the humans sector that enI call it the “humans sector”. It’s not riches community soul, purpose so much an economic or employment means ensuring that how we do sector like retail, tourism, mining or work must enrich the world.

Uber. It’s a cross-sectional view of Maximizing business profit is values, purpose and meaning. increasingly a soulless enterprise. B.C.’s minimum wage rose Values: The humans sector recogin September 2017, but Statistics nizes that we’re in an increasingly Canada tells us that our province’s alienating society. Social media isounemployment rate is relatively lates us and erodes our community unchanged since the summer. This fabric. Facebook certainly isn’t help- shows us that the fearmongering ing, what with their wink and a nod about paying people slightly closer to people all too eager to misuse our to a living wage doesn’t destroy the data and identities. economy. When Tim Horton’s franchises in Ontario clawed back nonThe humans sector shows up in any wage compensation for workers afwork that puts humans squarely in ter their minimum wage increased,

Stephen Elliott-Buckley is an organizational design consultant. Photo by Colin Mills aberrationphotos.com the nationwide boycott began and the reputation of their brand dropped.

If the end goal is about enriching humans values, the method must be enriching too. How we treat workers, how we pay them and acknowledge their contributions must reflect the dignity they deserve.

Yo u C a n F i n d t h e RC Community News @

Meaning: Even the Pope has been talking about the importance of meaningful work. This should be no surprise; he is a fan of the worker co-operative movement in Argentina. Work must reflect value, it must be performed with dignity, but it also needs to provide meaning for those who do it.

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.

This means we need to make sure the tasks people do have meaning. When people serve others, there is inherent meaning in what they do, but workplaces need to ensure that nothing people do is demeaning. We need to structure work so that even the less glamourous parts of our jobs are respected, recognized and distributed fairly.

The Renfrew-Collingwood Community News is an initiative of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH).

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

So, we need to build the humans sector.

But to do that we must first recognize what it is, where it already exists in our neighbourhood, where it needs to expand and how we and our people can make it richer and more vibrant.

Stephen Elliott-Buckley is an organizational design consultant helping companies and non-profits enrich employee and stakeholder engagement. In the past 30 years he has been a trainer, teacher and an Simon Fraser University professor. He is the author of Modern Labour Activism, a poet and a fan of civic bike lanes in the rainy season.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

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May 2018

Sharon Gregson stepping down as CNH director by Paul Reid Sharon Gregson, Director of the Early Years for Collingwood Neighbourhood House, will soon be phasing herself out of the role that she began 13 years ago.

“Back then my role was called Director of Child Care,” says Gregson. “I took over from Oscar Allueva. Since then we have incorporated both the family services and family development programs. Together with child care, this was all rolled into the early years.”

“Child care has continued to expand. We opened the Terry Taylor child care facility. We began two after-school-age programs — at Renfrew Elementary and Norquay Elementary schools. We also changed Duke Street location to include more child care spaces.”

Most recently, Sharon has overseen creation of the new Children’s Room at the new CNH Annex that includes a new preschool and industrial kitchen. With the kitchen, the plan is to create a hot lunch program that will provide lunches to the other CNH child care centres. In addition to the expansions, Sharon has had a focus on improving overall quality of the child care programs, as well as ongoing professional development for early childhood educators.

During her time at CNH, Sharon has also been busy as a Vancou-

ver school board trustee – a position to which she was twice elected.

Currently, she is the co-chair of the Vancouver Joint Childcare Council.

Sharon also runs her own company, Sharon Gregson Consulting, in which she works on advocacy and consulting around child care issues.

Sharon Gregson is the Director of Since 2010, Sha- Early Years at Collingwood ron has been work- Neighbourhood House.

ing on the $10/ Day Childcare campaign. She also worked to help make child care a big part of the 2017 provincial election. “Now we have a government that was elected to implement this quality affordable child care plan. It’s a 10-year plan that our provincial governCome and cele b r a t e ment has just started the first steps of by reducing the fees for families.”

M o t h e r ' s Day

There is still a lot more advocacy work to do to make sure that the commitments made are implemented. In addition to reduced child care fees, these include improved wages and benefits for educators. We are also working to create more licensed child care spaces in the province.”

Sharon has recently been nominated for a YWCA Woman of Distinction Award for 2018, which will be awarded in June.

Congratulations Sharon!

You have our vote.

Terry Taylor Childcare Facility

with us and en j o y a huge selection o f m e n u choices.

Serving great h o m e cooked meals everyday.

3684 Lougheed Hwy.

604.299.7701

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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

May 2018

The Seniors Connection

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

Seniors Club activities at MOSAIC

MOSAIC’s Seniors Club runs free activities that encourage participants to make new friends, learn new skills and join community events. Aimed at immigrants and refugees aged 55 years and up, participants enjoy many benefits to their physical, social, spiritual, emotional and mental well-being through these activities.

Immigrant seniors often find the cultural barrier of coming to Canada more challenging. The Seniors Club is designed as a place for seniors to feel a part of the community with age-appropriate opportunities for learning and having fun.

Photo source: mosaicbc.org

MOSAIC is a multilingual nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing issues that affect immigrants and refugees in the course of their settlement and integration into Canadian society.

In addition to activities, the Seniors Club can provide resources on government benefits, community support, health-related information, and information on Canadian laws and rights.

English Conversation Circle (Healthy Living for Seniors) Thursdays, 10 am–12 pm 5575 Boundary Road, Vancouver For more information contact Daisy 604 254 9626 ext 1005 or daisyau@mosaicbc.org

SENIORS WELLNESS PROGRAMS May 2018

WORLD CAFÉ MONDAY MAY 14TH 1:15 - 3:00pm A casual conversation circle to share your opinions about news and events from around the world. Cost:$2.50

BIRTHDAYS AND BINGO MONDAY MAY 7TH 1:15 - 3:00pm Join us for FREE cake for everyone and a celebration of the April birthdays then stay for Bingo!

KARAOKE THURSDAY MAY 17TH 1:30 - 3:30pm Sing, listen, enjoy! All are welcome.

Music in many different languages.

Free activity.

SENIORS DAY TRIP TO HORSHOE BAY FRIDAY MAY 25TH For more details please see the separated trip flyer at CNH. The cost for this activity is $5 (transportation). Registration in the front desk.

HOW TO MAKE HANDMADE CRAFTS CARDS MONDAY MAY 28TH 1:15 - 3:00pm Come to learn how to make beautiful crafts.

The cost for this activity is $3, snacks and materials included. Spaces are limited!

Please sign up at the front desk to save your spot.

HAIRCUT FOR SENIORS MAY 9TH AND MAY 23RD 3:00 - 5:45 pm (Program Room A) You can sign up at the front desk to save your spot with our hairstylist, Lina! Cost: by donation only

COMMUNITY LUNCH Every Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12pm These three-course lunches are inexpensive and delicious.

Menus are different each week; reflecting the changing seasons and diverse food traditions.

SENIORS ON THE MOVE Need a Ride? FREE service for seniors with low income, and with language and/or disability barriers.

Helping seniors meet their transportation needs CALL Jenny Shen , SOTM Program Coordinator

604-435-0323 Ext. 227

COFFEE SOCIAL Every Thursdays 10:15 am A casual conversation circle to share your opinions about news and events from around the world.

Cost:$1 (Free on the first Thursday of the month)

Knitting Circle Tuesdays, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm 5575 Boundary Road, Vancouver English Conversation Circle (Upper Beginner) Mondays, 9:30–11:30 am 5902 Kingsway, Burnaby English Conversation Circle (Beginner) Wednesdays, 9:30–11:30 am Brentwood Community Resource Centre, 2055 Rosser Avenue, Burnaby English Conversation Circle (Upper Beginning) Fridays, 1–3 pm Brentwood Community Resource Centre, 2055 Rosser Avenue, Burnaby Wai Dan Gong Fridays, 9–10 am Brentwood Community Resource Centre, 2055 Rosser Avenue, Burnaby Tai Chi Fridays, 10:30 am –12 pm Brentwood Community Resource Centre, 2055 Rosser Avenue, Burnaby For more information contact: Eliza 604 292 3907 or echan@ mosaicbc.org Jennifer 604 254 9626 ext 1157 or jng@mosaicbc.org

Spring has truly stirred action in our VancouverKingsway neighbourhood!

I was thrilled to welcome 350+ people to our annual Seniors’ Health & Wellness Fair in April.

I would like to thank our wonderful community exhibitors, volunteers, performers, and cohost Renfrew Park Community Centre and their team for all their dedicated efforts to making this year’s fair another successful one.

Our community office was delighted to celebrate National Volunteer Week last month.

Volunteers are a valuable and priceless part of our Renfrew-Collingwood community. Their dedication and commitment in our community allows for it to flourish and thrive. A special thank you to our regular office volunteer, Geoff, whose time and talent since December enables our little office to do big things. If you are interested in volunteering with us, please contact my office at 604-660-0314 or adrian.dix. mla@leg.bc.ca This month, my office and I will be participating in the annual Keep Vancouver Spectacular on Saturday, May 19. Thank you to the Collingwood Community Policing Centre for organizing a Cleanup Event & BBQ for our community on that day.

Don’t forget to participate in the Collingwood Days Festival. This free week-long festival takes place from May 22-27 and features family-friendly fun activities. Thank you to the Collingwood Business Improvement Association for putting on this neighbourhood-wide celebration for all to enjoy. Come visit me at my community office booth on May 26 for the main festival day, located at Gaston Park (Euclid & Tyne).

Do you have questions about your money?

Want to learn how to increase your savings, and reduce your debt? Free 1-1 money coaching is now available at my community office. A financial coach from Family Services of Greater Vancouver (www.fsgv.ca) can meet with you one-on-one to talk about your money.

They can talk about issues such as building a budget, increasing your savings, reducing your debt. This service is for newcomers, youth, seniors, and people on low incomes. To book an appointment, please contact my office at 604-660-0314 or adrian.dix.mla@leg.bc.ca Lastly, if you have a community event that you wish to promote, my community office would be delighted to help spread the word. Please ask us for details on the types of events we can promote at 604-660-0314 or email adrian. dix.mla@leg.bca. For upcoming events in the community, check out my website http:// adriandixmla.ca/events/ Sincerely, Adrian Dix, MLA

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Read On!

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May 2018

A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners

Growing your own food



Read On!

has a web page. You can:

by Tony Wanless

 Read the articles

Do you grow your own food?

http://renfrewcollingwood communitynews.com/category/ read-on/

Many people today have found that growing some of their own food – vegetables, herbs, perhaps eggs if they have a hen house – in a window box or garden plot has many benefits.

Reading levels on this page

One benefit is that food you grow usually costs less than store-bought food.

That is why during times of hardship, such as the Depression and the Second World War, when people had little money, they grew food in their backyard or Growing your own food has many benefits. It’s easy to start fresh herbs in shared garden spaces.

Level 1

Level 2

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Level 3

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like basil indoors in spring for transplanting outside in the summer.

Photo by Julie Cheng

Also, growing their own food was often the only way they could get the kind of food that kept them healthy. During the Second World War, home food gardens were often called “victory gardens” – because they helped countries at war divert their resources to the war effort to achieve victory.

Today, although we are not at war, most people still like to cut costs. While a household may not grow rich by growing their own food, they will be able to cut some part of their annual food spending.

Another benefit is that freshly picked food is usually more tasty than store-bought food (which must be sorted, stored and delivered to grocery stores) because it is often eaten within minutes of being picked.

Although commercial growers try to move their fresh food from store to supermarkets quickly, the process still takes time. This is important, because all food loses vitamins and nutrients during the time from harvest to market.

In Vancouver, you can grow your own herbs, vegetables and other food in many ways. Some people simply put some containers on a balcony or porch. Others plant full gardens in a yard or any plot of land that is available.

Some people without yards rent space from “shared plots” – pieces of land in neighbourhoods where people can grow plants for a small rental fee.

Think of it as backyard farming done in a collective way.

In the Renfrew-Collingwood area there are several such growing areas, including two large community gardens: one in the Collingwood area east of the Joyce-Collingwood SkyTrain station, and the other in the Norquay area that was formerly located on Kaslo Street across from the 29th Avenue SkyTrain station and now is being planned for Slocan Park. (The Kaslo site is being turned into a place for the homeless.)

The Collingwood Neighbourhood House also offers several food initiatives and has much advice for those wanting to grow their own food. For more information visit http://www.cnh.bc.ca/community/renfrew-collingwoodfood-security-institute/ or the blog https://rcfood.wordpress.com/

growing vegetable garden healthy picked

Definitions:

fresh traditional tasty harvest vitamin

nutrient container plot farming food

hardship: a condition that is difficult; suffering victory: the act of defeating an enemy or opponent divert: to cause something or someone to change direction cut: lessen or reduce collective: done by people acting as a group

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May 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

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May 2018

Collingwood Days Festival Week Schedule May 20: Family Board Games - Renfrew Library (2929 E. 22nd Ave.), 1:30 pm - 4:30pm May 23: Lego Block Party - Renfrew Library, 3:30 4:30pm May 23:Bamboo Board Game Night - Bamboo CafŽ (5130 Joyce St.), 5 - 7pm May 24: Musical Luncheon - Collingwood Neighbourhood House (5288 Joyce St.), 12-1pm - $6 for seniors, $7 for adults, $5 for students, $3.25 children

May 25: Community Open Mic/Games Night First Lutheran (5745 Wales St) - Games 5:30 - 7pm / Music 7-9pm May 25: Graham Bruce Carnival (3633 Tanner St) 4-8pm

May 26: FESTIVAL DAY May 27: Sketch-a-palooza w/ Madame Beespeaker Renfrew community Centre, 1-3:30pm

Festival Day

How to Get Here

May 26, 2018 / 11am - 4pm 9-11am: Pancake Breakfast (by donation) Hosted by BC Lions Society

Location: Gaston Park (3470 Crowley Dr) We encourage you to walk or bike to the festival!

11-4pm: International Marketplace, Mobile Museum,

Kids Zone Games, Food Court, Artisan Village, BIA Raffle, Face Painting, Balloon Creations by Bent Air, Dog Agility Show, Roving Entertainers

1pm: 15th Anniversary of Collingwood Days Cake Cutting Celebration 2pm: Watermelon Eating Contest

Sponsors Heritage Canada Mosaic BC Renfrew Community Centre Fortis BC Central Park Business Centre City of Vancouver Vancouver School Board Rowe Events & Show Services Wild Coast Productions

From Joyce Station: 1) Head west towards Joyce St. 2) Turn left onto Joyce St. 3) Turn left onto Crowley Drive 4) Gaston Park will be on the right

From EB Kingsway (#19 Bus Stop, Kingsway & Joyce): 1) Heard north bound on Joyce St. 2) Turn right onto Euclid Avenue 4) Gaston Park will be on the left

Performers Balkan Shmalkan, Brass Band Ariel Amara, Stilts & Circus Arts Yuki Ueda, Juggling & Circus Arts Still Moon Arts Society's Birds on Stilts Madame Beespeaker Clara Chisholm, Musician & Stilter Lola Loops, Hula Hoops & Circus Arts Tin Can Studio

Partners Collingwood Neighbourhood House 604.435.0323 5288 Joyce St, Vancouver, BC V5R 6C9 Collingwood Policing Centre 604.717.2935 5160 Joyce St, Vancouver, BC V5R 4H1 Collingwood Business Improvement Association 604.639.4403

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May 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Deciding to follow your dreams, twice

by DJ A-SLAM

When I graduated from high school, I always had the dream of being an emcee and music producer. I looked up to the greats, Dr. Dre, Kanye West, Timbaland, and my favourite group, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony.

Law of attraction But where to start? How to learn?

And what to do? As I started to push towards this dream, I first discovered what is now known in popular culture as the Secret, or the law of attraction. I just tried to get into any area of the music industry that I could. I met Geoff Goddard who had started a new promotion company called The Frontside Group. I began doing street team promotions for some of my favourite Vancouver artists: Swollen Members, Sweatshop Union, and other artists on the Battleaxe record label. I was infatuated with the music and the live shows, but I knew my heart was in creating the music, not just promoting it.

By another stroke of the universe, while at a bar downtown, I met the man who has become my long-time music production mentor, Adam H. Hurtsfield.

He was working on a new song and said I could come by the studio and watch the process. This is where I learned the amount of time, hard work and talent that goes into mainstream pop music.

Just to give you an idea, Adam H. has worked with Jeremih, Ray J., Elise Estrada, Sarah Geronimo, Loverboy, NeYo and Kat Deluna, just to name a few.

Writing for mom I eagerly took what I learned and decided to put out my own song. It was a song I wrote for my mom, called For You. And it exploded faster than I could imagine. Within one year, I had won an international songwriting award, been featured on Global BC, and I was being asked to perform all across Vancouver.

While I was out performing more, I ended up at a music festival called the Vancouver International Bhangra Celebration (now known as the 5X Festival).

That’s where I fell in love with a genre of music that I had only listened to in passing and not completely focused on.

5X and other South Asian music festivals like desiFest have been part of the movement of breaking South Asian music to a wider audience. I started to work with Bhangra artists locally. The most notable song was a collaboration with my long-time friend Amen Panesar, on a remix of an old Punjabi song, Nakhre Bin Sohni Teevi. Mixing hip-hop with Bhangra allowed me and

Global Party Starters members A-SLAM and REKing.

Amen to open for and tour with some of the biggest names in the genre, including H-Dhami, Imran Khan, Mumzy, Juggy D and Aman Hayer. We even got to be a part of the celebrations in Vancouver’s 2010 Olympics..

After success During this whole process I was still continuing with my studies in political science at Simon Fraser University. And I did what a lot of people who have fast success in their dream area do, I pulled back. Even with a lot of popularity, I lacked major business skills and wasn’t able to make a profit in the music business. I started to doubt my skills, my abilities, everything I had accomplished.

Many people understand the power of the Secret, the law of attraction, the energy of the universe. But what I don’t hear enough people talking about is what to do after you have success.

I’ve met child actors, writers and other musicians, all who had great success early in their careers and didn’t know what to do. And so they pulled back from their dream, in a mix of fear, confusion and other emotions.

Universe opens again Fast forward five years of working for the government and then in sales, I decided to again follow my dream, for the second time. At the age of the 30 I decided to quit everything I was doing and dive back into music.

Photo by Caleighkats Photography

I was having a conversation with the co-founder of desiFest, SatsB. He was talking about his struggle to break South Asian artists into wider non-South Asian platforms.

For example, South Asians are drastically underrepresented in things like the Junos, Canadian Music Week, music festivals across Canada, grant recipients and on mainstream radio.

And so the Global Party Starters idea started to take shape, as a project that could help put South Asian faces front and centre. And again the universe started to open.

I dove back into DJing, hard beats, heavy drums, exciting lyrics. And one day, picking up gear at Long and Mcquade, a young half-Spanish kid asks me if I’m a DJ. He and his dad asked me to help them choose equipment. Then he mentions that he also wants to produce music and plays me some beats from his phone.

Literally the energy of the universe went through my body, and I saw myself in this boy who was simply trying to follow his dream. The Global Party Starters idea became a reality.

Over the next months, me and Ryan aka DJ REKing started working on beats and DJing live shows with the Divinity Djs. We put out our first album, Keep Us on Your Radar, trying to figure out our sound. We experimented with different genres, textures, tempos,

themes, while keeping a focus on collaborating with artists of colour.

SatsB also stayed on board helping us navigate the grant process. And now we have just completed our second album Tonight, a more mature album with a focus on heavy drums, storytelling and memorable melodies.

But even more important than all of this is YOU, the listener, that makes all this matter.

I look forward to many more sometimes-hard, sometimes-ugly, always-worthwhile experiences along this musical journey. Here’s to hoping that you are part of that journey with us.

If you’d like to hear the most recent milestone of that journey, listen to our most recent album, Tonight at globalpartystarters.ca Thank you for being a listener and for making it all matter. I hope our music can be a soundtrack for your journey as you find and follow your own dreams. For the first, second or even third time.

Hussein “DJ A-SLAM” Alidina attended Carleton Elementary and Windermere Secondary and worked as a youth worker at Collingwood Neighbourhood House. Published with permission from globalpartystarters.ca.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

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May 2018

What’s happening at your local library Renfrew Branch 2969 E. 22nd Ave. at Nootka 604-257-8705 ADULT PROGRAMS ESL Conversation Circle Improve your spoken English skills in a supportive environment.

Learn about your community and Canadian culture while making new friends.This class is suitable for intermediate and advanced speakers.

• Saturday, May 12, 2:30–3:30 pm • Saturday, May 26, 2:30–3:30 pm Story Circle for Adults Story Circle is a drop-in program designed especially for adults with developmental disabilities, their family, friends, and caregivers. Join us in an accessible, relaxed, and fun community setting for stories, music, and more!

• Thursdays, May 10 and May 24, 10:15–11:00 am Canadian Citizenship Test Preparation (English with Chinese assistance) Prepare for the Canadian Citizenship Test in this free workshop! Please bring your PR card and arrive 15 minutes before the workshop starts. In partnership with www. kiwassa.ca. To register, please contact Teresa by phone at 604.254.5401 ext. 249 or email: teresal@kiwassa.ca • Wednesday, May 2, 1– 3 pm Making Sense of RRSPs and TFSAs What is the difference between and RRSP and a TFSA? What are the benefits of each? Vancity volunteers share their expertise on these products and help you with your investment decisions. In partnership with Vancity.

• Saturday, May 5, 3–4:30 pm Web Design Essentials: Basic Coding Learn how to write basic HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) and style web pages with CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) while getting introduced to JavaScript. This is an introductory course; prior knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript or web design is not required.

• Tuesday, May 29, 6–8 pm Music, Movies and More Looking for movies you can borrow without leaving home?

Want to know where to find free music? We’ll introduce you to VPL’s extensive online collection of entertainment resources – learn how to access music from around the world, classic and independent movies, and more.

• Saturday, May 19th (3:30 pm – 5:00pm) FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Afternoon at the Movies Join us on Friday afternoons for family friendly movies!

Fridays, 3:30 pm | Drop-in • May 4: Star Wars: The Force Awakens • May 11: Cars 3 • May 18: Despicable Me 3 • May 25: Moana

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS Storytimes at Renfrew A program for parents and caregivers with young children. Songs, rhymes and stories.

• Family Storytime (0-7 yrs) Saturdays, May 5–May 26, 10 am | Drop-in • Toddler Storytime (18 month – 3 years) Mondays, May 7–May 28, 10:15 am | Drop-in • Babytime (newborn – 18 month) Mondays, May 7–May 28, 11:15 am | Drop-in Toddler Box Party (1–3 yrs) A special box party just for toddlers. We’ll provide crayons, music and cardboard boxes of all sizes to play with and draw on; you provide the toddlers!

• Tuesday, May 1 (10:30–11:30 am) MIDDLE YEARS PROGRAMS Coding Buddies At this two-part workshop, discover the world of coding with a teen buddy. Learn how to code using some of the latest iPad apps. Must attend both sessions. For Grades 2-4. Please contact the branch to register • Monday, May 7, 4–5:30 pm • Tuesday, May 8, 4–5:30 pm Be the Hero: A Role-Playing Game Create your own character and join a group of adventurers as they go on their latest quest. With a bit of storytelling and teamwork, you could be the hero of your own story! For Grades 3-7.

• Tuesday, May 1, 3:30–4:30 pm Wacky Cartoons: Art on the iPad Wacky drawing 101. We’ll start by drawing on paper and switch to drawing on iPads while using some fun art apps. Please contact the branch to register. For Grades 3-7.

• Friday, May 18, 2–3 pm TEEN PROGRAMS Public Speaking for Teens Learn the art of using your voice to capture your audience and speak up with confidence. Improve your vocal projection, body language, and presentation skills.

Pizza will be provided. In partnership with Renfrew Community Centre. For ages 13-18.

• Thursday, May 10, 6–7:30 pm Triple R Book Club A teen-led book club for students in Grades 5, 6 and 7. Read your favourite books and discuss them with your friends. Registration ongoing.

• Thursdays, May 3–May 31, 4–5 pm

Big

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1595 Kingsway, Vancouver, B.C. • 604-872-3019 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8am - 9pm www.famousfoods.ca

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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

May 2018

Coast employment program keeps streets clean

by Melissa Chan

Coast’s Transitional Employment Program is a street cleaning team that works with the local business improvement association and housing co-ops to keep the neighbourhood clean. The program allows individuals to try a job in a supported environment without the stress of losing a job due to a health-related absenteeism.

Our team works in the area, in rain or shine, three times a week picking up cigarette butts, food containers and cups, and other waste. The team surveys the area, reporting graffiti to the city or any large household items that have been left.

The crew loves when the shop owners or random people come and thank them for doing such an amazing job. They truly feel like a part of the neighbourhood and love to strike up conversations with the shoppers and shop owners!

Coast Street Clean Team: 604-562-4286

Members of the Coast street cleaning team hard at work.

Photo courtesy of Coast Mental Health G

Renfrew / Collingwood

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North 

Broadway

Renfrew St.

Nanaimo St. E.33rd Ave.

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The Tipper Restaurant Ph: 604.873.1010

2066 Kingsway

E.41st Ave.

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Collingwood Insurance Ph: 604.438.9888

Kingsway K

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

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5750 Tyne Street

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Ru pe rt St.

E.29th Ave. Ea rle sS t.

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Boundary Rd.

Collingwood Neighbourhood House 5288 Joyce Street Ph:604.435.0323

Slocan St.

Grandview Hwy.

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First Avenue Dental 604.254.5040

#116 - 2800 E1st Ave.

Joyce Hair Design Ph: 604.451.7680

5156 Joyce St.

Papa John’s Pizza Ph: 604.310.PAPA

#300-3340 Kingsway

Chromatic Renfrew Ad-P1 May 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

13

Farmers markets open for another season

CHROMATIC LIGHT

Contemporary Painting in the Open Dennis Brown Paul Chizik Liza Visagie

There’s nothing more delicious or nutritious than just-picked fruits and veggies from the farm. In Renfrew-Collingwood, we can hop on the Skytrain and find ourselves at three farmers markets within 15 minutes on various days of the week. For more information on these markets and others in Vancouver, visit eatlocal.org .

April 10– June 20, 2018

Trout Lake Lakewood Dr. & E 13th Ave. May 5, 2018 - Oct 20, 2018 Saturdays 9am - 2pm Nanaimo SkyTrain Station

Opening 7:00PM Tuesday, April 10

Main Street Station 1100 Station Street June 6, 2018 - Oct 3, 2018 Wednesdays 2pm - 6pm Main Street-Science World SkyTrain Station

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

Tuesday–Saturday 10:00AM–5:00PM

Downtown Queen Elizabeth Theatre June 7, 2018 - Oct 4, 2018 Thursdays 3pm - 7pm Stadium-Chinatown SkyTrain Station

Photo by Julie Cheng

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

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

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

Spring Highlights cont.

Victoria Day Weekend Hours of Operation Pool

NEPP—Earthquake Preparedness (18+yrs)

Fitness Centre

Centre Area

9:30am-4pm

9am-5pm

Sat

May 19 8:30am-4pm

Sun

May 20

1-5pm

1-5pm

10:30am-5:30pm

Mon May 21

1-5pm

1-5pm

Closed

Spring Highlights Lego—EV3 Mindstorms (8-12yrs) Tomorrow’s Playground

Exciting robotics camp featuring the Lego EV3 Mindstorms system. Students will learn to design, program and control robots and other mechanisms. Then engage in excited builds, challenges and missions. Using the icon-based software, students can build, program and test their solutions based on real-life robotics technology. Students will gain a basic understanding of programming, engineering processes, sensor usage and much more. This STEM based program will prepare them for further advanced classes.

158113 Mon May 28-Jun 18 3:45-5:15pm $100/4 sess

Renfrew Licensed Preschool 2018-2019 Licensed preschool runs from September-June For information phone (604) 257-8391 Email: Renfrew.preschoool@vancouver.ca Or pick up an information pamphlet at the centre office.

Tue, Thu 8:30-11:00am $104/month Tue, Thu 12:00-2:30pm $104/month Mon, Wed, Thu 8:30-11:00am $156/month Mon, Wed, Thu 12-2:30pm $156/month Contact the supervisor for five day options.

138894 Wed May 2

7:00-9:00pm

Vancouver Youth Week 2018 COV NEPP Free

May Flower Luncheon (55+yrs)

Menu: Kentucky Burgoo, Mash Potatoes, Green Salad, Peach Shortcake.

157190 Wed May 16 12:00-2:30pm

$8.57/person

iPad (55+yrs)

Mary Leung Bring your iPad and learn to make appointments and reminders with the calendar; make a note; use the timer and alarm clock; send messages and photos and manage your contacts.

Cantonese 157125 Sat

May 26-Jun 9 11:00am-12:30pm

$6/3 sess

Gentle Yoga (55+yrs)

Bill Mercer Gentle movement and stretching through beginner and intermediate yoga poses can reduce swelling in joints while increasing joint mobility and improving balance which helps in reducing falls.

Beginner 159529 Mon May 28-Jun 25 10:00-10:55am $25/5 sess 159533 Thu May 24-Jun 28 10:00-10:55am

$30/6 sess

2018 Summer Centre Programs Registration Starts On-line and in person registration Register by phone (604 257-8388)

Tue, May 22 Wed, May 23

May the Fourth Be With YOUth Dance Friday, May 4th

8:00pm-11:00pm at Trout Lake CC Tickets are $5 each from your Centre’s Youth Worker, or $7 at the door.

Please bring a valid school go-card when you come. A free photo booth, games and prizes will be available. Contact Suzy at suzy.parker@vancouver.ca or visit the Youth Office to get your tickets starting April 1.

Basketball 3-on-3 Tournament Saturday, May 5th

1:00-7:00pm at Hillcrest Centre To sign up a team, please email Matt Charan by April 25 with your team roster at matthew.charan@vancouver.ca

Skateboard Event Saturday, May 5th

1:00-4:00pm at the Vancouver Skate Plaza All skill levels welcome. Contact Eric at eric.yu@vancouver.ca for a waiver form before you participate! This event is a partnership with the Vancouver Skateboard Coalition.

Wibit Inflatable Day in the pool Saturday, May19th 2:00pm–4:00pm

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

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May 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH)

H IGHLIG H TS

A new team continues to grow CNH’s food security programs Recently, there have been some staff changes at the Renfrew-Collingwood Food Security Institute (RCFSI) at CNH, but a new food security team continues to grow and improve RCFSI’s popular food security programs.

Elise Barber and Cassandra Ly (former Food Security Coordinator and Community Food Liaison Coordinator) have both moved on to new challenges. Though they are missed, CNH is happy to introduce the new RCFSI team: Mik, Kaitlyn, and Bo! Mik Turje is the new Food Security Coordinator, Kaitlyn Fung is the new Community Food Liaison, and Bo Del Valle Garcia has returned as Urban Agriculture Facilitator. The new RCFSI team is eager to connect with neighbourhood residents who have an interest in growing, cooking, or enjoying food. To learn more about the new team, visit https:// rcfood.wordpress.com/2018/03/22/introducing-the-new-rcfsi-team/ CNH’s food security team is offering a wide variety of interesting programs, including a new Permaculture and Ethnobotany Certificate Design Course. For more information on RCFSI’s featured food security programs, see the descriptions below. For an overview of RCFSI programs at CNH, visit http://www.cnh.bc.ca/community/renfrew-collingwoodfood-security-institute/ To see up to date program details (schedules, locations, etc.), visit https://rcfood.wordpress.com/

Permaculture & Ethnobotany Certificate Design Course

During this hands on, community based course, participants will learn about permaculture design, ethnobotany, herbalism, and soil and water systems. They will take an in depth look at social systems using an anti-colonial and justice orientated framework. Participants will receive mentorship to complete a hands on design project and 30 hours of experiential work at RCFSI gardens. Presented by RenfrewCollingwood Food Security Institute and Tangled Roots Nature Connection. For more information or to register, please visit the RCFSI website: https://rcfood.wordpress. com/norquay-orchard/permaculture-ethnobotany-designcertificate-course/ When: June 2,3, 16, 30; July 14, 28; August 11, 12 Where: 2732 Horley Street, Norquay Community Food Forest Cost: Free, but participants are expected to participate in a number of volunteer activities at one of RCFSI’s garden sites.

Norquay Community Food Forest Stewardship Session

Fruit trees, native plants, and so much more can be found at the Norquay Community Food Forest. Participants learn, dig, weed, and make this community space come alive.

Join the first stewardship session of the year! This is a great opportunity to learn more about the food forest and lend a hand tending this lovely space. If the weather is nice, participants will be painting a new shed. Please wear appropriate clothing! No experience required and everyone is welcome. Free, no registration required.

When: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., Saturday, April 28th Where: 2732 Horley Street, Norquay Community Food Forest

Rooftop Garden Drop-in

Participants learn to garden organically, share knowledge with neighbours, and grow food for community programs.

Volunteers are needed and beginners are always welcome!

No previous gardening experience is required. Free, no registration required.

When: Wednesdays from 5:00 PM - 7:00 p.m.

Where: 5288 Joyce Street, Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Community Kitchen Workshops

Participants cook, eat, and learn together with neighbours in a safe and fun environment. The workshops continue year round; visit https://rcfood.wordpress.com/ for information on upcoming sessions.

Cost: Free, but registration required. Register at CNH’s Front Desk (604 435 0323).

Community Lunch

These three-course lunches are healthy and delicious! Meals change every week to reflect the changing seasons and diverse food traditions. All proceeds support Collingwood Neighbourhood House Seniors’ Wellness programs.

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Where: 5288 Joyce Street - Purchase your ticket at CNH’s Front Desk Cost: $6 for seniors / $7 for Adults / $5 for Students / $3.25 for Children (<12)

This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House

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

May lunch menu Tuesday, May 1 Cheesy cauliflower soup Grilled chicken or veggie sandwich Salad Orange cake Thursday, May 3 Beef or veggie stew with noodles Salad Carrot muffins Tuesday, May 8 Minestrone soup Macaroni and cheese with prawns Salad Chocolate cup cake Thursday, May 10 Salmon or veggie burgers Salad Blueberry tart Tuesday, May 15 French onion soup Pulled pork sandwich / veggie option Salad Almond tart Thursday, May 17 Chicken cacciatore with brown rice / veggie option Salad Lemon square Tuesday, May 22 Hearty hummus and vegetable soup Falafel or chicken shawarma Salad Basbousa cake Thursday, May 24 Iranian kebab with barberry saffron rice Salad Peanut butter cookies Tuesday, May 29 Vegetarian Mexican tortilla soup Ground turkey or veggie burrito Salad Tres leches cake Thursday, May 31 Spaghetti meat balls or primavera Salad and garlic bread Pineapple upside down cake

15

May 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

WHOÕS WHO IN COLLINGWOOD 604.639.4403 info@shopcollingwood.ca www.shopcollingwood.ca @shopcollingwood #300-3665 Kingsway

CBIA WHATÕS HAPPENING

Collingwood Days 2018 - May 26th, 2018 - Theme for this year is PLAY. There will be lots of games from all over the world to learn and play.

9a.m. Pancake Breakfast /11a.m. Official start of the festival Everyone is welcome to join us in the largest community festival the Collingwood area. If youÕd like to participate in the International Marketplace or as a food vendor or volunteer go to www.collingwooddays.com *Please see page 2 insert for more information!* Planter Box Adoption and Contest There are thirty planter boxes located throughout Kingsway between Rupert and Boundary Road. The Collingwood BIA is asking our members (the businesses) to adopt a planter. Help us take care of these beautiful plants and flowers by watering them weekly through the self-watering system. Report to the CBIA or Skookum Landscapes if you are missing items or of any damage or graffiti to the boxes.

We will be choosing a planter box each month as the ÒBest Planter Box of the MonthÓ your business can win prizes. The planter boxes are part of the Street Beautification initiatives the CBIA undertakes. Along with the Clock Tower Gardens, street banners, street signs and lighting. To adopt a Planter Box please contact the CBIA office 604.639.4403 or email angela@shocpollingwood.ca Pedestrian Safety Day and Keep Vancouver Spectacular Events - May 9th, 2018 Once again the Collingwood BIA is participating in these two community events. Partnering with the Vancouver Police, Community Policing Centre and ICBC to promote pedestrian safety in Collingwood. Heads up, phones down while crossing the streets. We will be handing out safety material in different areas of Collingwood.

FEATURES OF THE MONTH: PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PART 1 Accounting & Tax Services: Ability Tax Group 604.630.033 Accounting & Tax Office 604.723.3226 B B Dhanji & Co Inc. 604.322.1156

CIBC 604.665.1288

604.438.3611 Karim Lalani, CMA 604.638.7209

Credit Counselling Society 604.527.8999

HSBC 604.430.3261

Ken Lagasse 604.677.6639

EQ Lending Corp 604.395.4992

RBC Royal Bank 604.665.3888

M. Yasin & Co Inc. 604.325.4451

Focus Cash Loans 604.439.7667

TD Bank 604.654.3975

Money Mart 604.606.9670

Brian Tipper CA 604.639.4401

Marie McSorley Income Tax & Accounting 604.430.4114

Cong Li CGA 604.639.1806

MP Income Tax 604.434.7177

Crowe MacKay & Co.

SCS Accounting 604.301.2552

Financial Services: ACML Mortgages 604.433.6391

Sharyl Y Zhang Inc. 604.638.7210

Afro Canadian Mortgage 604.433.6391

Financial Institutions BMO Bank of Montreal 604.718.2215

Apex Business Brokers 604.808.3403

604.638.7211

Greg Rebane 604.263.8261 Helenah Wu & Co Inc 604.638.3516 HM Tax & Accounting Inc. Join the Board

We are always looking for new board members. Criteria to be a board member: own a commercial property; business tenant over 6 months; passion to make the Collingwood commercial area grow to help make a healthy neighbourhood.

Vanity Savings Credit Union 604.877.7130

Mr Payday 604.435.2274 Vancouver Cash for Gold 604.558.2026 World Financial Group (#201) 604.559.1934 World Financial Group (#360) 604.433.6391

Reviews

Upcoming Events

@ HM Tax & Accounting Inc ÒExcellent, fast and friendly service. If you need your taxes done go to HM Tax & Accounting I'm sure you will not be disappointed.Ó

May 9: Pedestrian Safety Day

- Google Reviews

May 19: Keep Vancouver Spectacular (10am-1pm, clean up & BBQ) May 22-27: Collingwood Days Events May 26: Collingwood Days Festival (Gaston Park)

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May 2018

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Don Davies MP Vancouver Kingsway

Happy Collingwood Days!

Special thanks to all volunteers for another great community festival!

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

DonDavies.ca