Renfrew-Collingwood Community News, November 2012

November 2012

COMMUNITY NEWS

www.cnh.bc.ca/rccnews

Artists-in-Resident Bring People Together at Slocan Park

by Julie Cheng A group of artists has a new home to meet and share their work with the Renfrew-Collingwood community. The group, called the Art House in the Field Collective, will turn the empty caretaker’s suite in Slocan Park field house into a hub of arts activity as part of an artistin-residency program sponsored by the Vancouver Park Board.

The community and local artists have been involved in the development of Slocan Park for many years, notes January Wolodarsky, one of the artists in the collective and the director of community development at the Collingwood Neighbourhood House.

Slocan Park is set to become a hub of arts activity through the Vancouver Park Board artist-in-resident program.

Inset: Artists Carmen Rosen, January Wolodarsky, Jolene Andrew, Yoko Tomita as well as Jolene’s daughter Rain are delighted by the caretaker’s suite.

Photo courtesy of Yoko Tomita

PA-MAX-Gift Card-RCCN-10.25Wx2.5H (November 2012).indd 1

“Suddenly a neighbourhood that had no dedicated space for arts activity, and has worked so hard on community-engaged art, now has this wonderful place,” she says.

“I’m really excited about the possibilities that come out of the field house. The neighbourhood will really benefit.”

Everyone is welcome. “If you have a creative skill, you’re welcome to come out and share. If you want to come out and find out what’s going on, you’re welcome to participate.”

Continued on page 2

12-10-22 11:07 PM

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November 2012

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Artists-in-Resident: Continued from page 1

EYE CARE CENTRE

Artists like Yoko Tomita and Alexis Macdonald Seto, of the Renfrew Collingwood Multicultural Artist Network; Carmen Rosen, of Still Moon Arts; and Jolene Andrew, of the local Aboriginal Youth Canoe Club, plan to offer community workshops in lantern making, felting, visual arts, costume design and carving, among others.

A welcoming tradition This new home for local arts is the latest achievement coming out of a vibrant multicultural arts scene that, you could say, started from a scraped knee and a longing to feel at home more than 15 years ago.

In summer 1997, January Wolodarsky was comforting her daughter, Tuedon, who had just tumbled onto the concrete near the wading pool at Slocan Park. A newcomer from Japan, where she worked as an environmental artist, January couldn’t help but think of ways to create more welcoming spaces in the park.

January brought her ideas to Collingwood Neighbourhood House, where then-executive director Paula Carr stitched together residents and artists to lead the project Building Community through Cultural Expression.

The project launched a communitydriven plan to renew Slocan Park, eventually leading to the Duchess Walkway, the covered area and field house renovations. It also started the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News, Collingwood Music Club and the Aboriginal Youth Canoe Club.

Celebration artist Carmen Rosen received a warm welcome soon after she moved to the neighbourhood on Christmas Eve, 1999.

“Within the first month, January came over and asked me what I was passionate about.” Carmen recalls.

“I was supported from the very first moment I moved in.”

Carmen talked about a seasonal cycle of celebrations and, within six months, she had organized her first celebration in Slocan Park as part of the Building Community project.

She would go on to create the annual Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival, which has drawn thousands of participants for the past 10 years.

The new Slocan Park artist in residency continues this tradition of bringing people together through art and helping newcomers express their creativity and feel like they belong. For more information, go to vancouver.ca/parks-recreationculture/slocan-park-fieldhouse.aspx.

Julie Cheng was a founding member of Building Community through Cultural Expression and is currently the editor of the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

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November 2012

Renfrew-Collingwood Does Its Part during Homeless Action Week October 7-13 by Peter Greenwell October saw elementary and high school students and other local groups working to solve housing insecurity and homelessness in Renfrew-Collingwood.

prevention a critical focus of work.

As one of Canada’s foremost experts At Windermere Secondary School students Alwin Tsui, on homelessness Charlie Dinh, Vincent Tan and Derek Yee organized a Dr. Gaetz outlined canned food drive in support of programs at Collingwood prevention strategies Neighbourhood House, including Families Branching Out in place in Britain, and the Morning Star Breakfast Program. Riya Talwar, Melissa Wong and Daniel Alvarenga assisted in promoting Australia and the United States; in the canned food drive. This is the third year where Windermere students have undertaken a project to support particular about youth homelessness and the criminalization of homelessness. neighbours facing the challenge of inadequate housing.

His report is available here: http://homelesshub.ca/ ResourceFiles/costofhomelessness_paper21092012.pdf At St. Mary’s School, every month the students have one day where they don’t wear their school uniforms – and instead donate $1 or $2 to a different cause – and this year At First Lutheran Church, previous to Homeless Action for October the cause was homelessness. As well the school Week, a significant donation was made, from a bequest, to the breakfast and shower program at Collingwood conducted a drive for breakfast food items, to support Neighbourhood House. This donation was important to the Saturday morning breakfast program at Collingwood provide socks and toiletries for people who come to use Neighbourhood House. the showers on Saturday mornings.

At Collingwood Neighbourhood House Dr. Stephen Gaetz These are examples of how Renfrew-Collingwood spoke, via Skype, about the Real Cost of Homelessness: Can We Save Money by Doing the Right thing? The main residents are working to create a healthy community point of his report was that it is cheaper to house people where the needs of all residents are acknowledged. rather than leaving them homeless. At Collingwood Peter Greenwell is the coordinator of homeless programs Neighbourhood House, outreach workers over the last six at Collingwood Neighbourhood House. years have seen fewer people on the street even though there is no decrease in the risk of homelessness, making

Homeless Rates Past and Present The term “homelessness” is a terrifying word by definition.

Homelessness refers to people who live in poverty, not knowing if they will have a place to sleep every night. Even more frightening is the number of people who are homeless.

Homelessness can be caused by poverty, drug addictions, mental illnesses, abuse, and even just bad luck. Homeless counts have recorded that the number of people living in homelessness has increased. In 2002, there were 1,121 homeless people in Metro Vancouver. Six years later in the 2008 homeless count, it was recorded that 2,660 people were living in homelessness, and 41 per cent were sheltered.

Previous reports have helped make it clear that homelessness is an important problem that needs to be solved.

In my law 12 class, I listened to information from the Renfrew Collingwood Homeless Committee about their goals to alleviate homelessness. We learned that the number of homeless people has decreased. The latest Metro Vancouver homeless count in 2011 revealed that 2,650 people were homeless. Although the count showed only a decrease in 10 people, the percentage of sheltered homeless increased by 30 percent, making the total percentage of sheltered people 71 percent.

Unfortunately, there are not enough laws to protect us from homelessness. However, certain laws help support the homeless such as the federal government’s Bill C-304 and the National Housing Act. First, Bill C-304 supports homelessness because the bill itself has a National Housing Strategy Program. The housing strategy provides housing

by Angus Chen

for homeless people if they were homeless for an extended period of time or suffering from problems as mentioned above. This bill also helps the homeless financially if the homelessness cannot afford rental housing. Moreover, the National Housing Act was enacted to ensure safe and affordable housing for every citizen and also the repair of houses for better living conditions.

There are currently many programs working towards their goal to eradicate homelessness. For example, the Morning Star Program of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House provides not only breakfasts for the hungry homeless, but also donates clothes. UBC nursing students also provide health service. Such programs and many others are putting time and effort into battling homelessness.

When Gregor Robertson was elected as mayor, part

of his campaign was that, by 2015, absolute homelessness on the streets of Vancouver would end. Despite this, his party and the government’s efforts, homelessness has not yet been resolved.

Many argue that the mayor and many others do not understand that ending homelessness is a long-term commitment.

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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

November 2012

Worms Are Our Friends Make a composter their home

by Julie Cheng

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: Ricardo Cerna, Angus Chen, Julie Cheng, Collingwood Community Policing Office, Robert F. Edwards, Beth Grayer, Peter Greenwell, John Mendoza, Paul Reid, Ann Rivard, Kathy Romses, RD, Timothy Shay

We want to hear from you!

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

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

Next submission deadline: Nov 10 The Renfrew/Collingwood Community News is an initiative of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH).

My kids never say “Eww!” when they see an earth worm.

They know that worms are our friends; they help make things grow.

These casts add much of the nutrition to the soil that helps plants grow. Worms also aerate the soil as they move around, which creates better soil conditions for roots to grow.

Compost bins, called composters, turn your kitchen scraps (like egg shells, coffee grounds and vegetable peels) into a rich soil. The city sells backyard composters for $25. This is about half the retail cost and the city subsidizes the other half.

You can often buy worm poo as “black gold” from garden stores. But you can easily make your own worm poo by buying a backyard composter or, if you don’t have room, a worm composter.

You can pick up garden composters at the Vancouver South Transfer Station at 377 West Kent Avenue North. More info: vancouver.ca/home-property-development/gardencomposters.aspx

Backyard composters The City of Vancouver has a new push to recycle our kitchen and yard waste. In spring 2013, the city plans to collect recycling, yard waste and food scraps once a week, and to collect garbage every second week. With this new plan, the city seeks to reduce the almost 40 percent of garbage that is food scraps and compostable materials

Worm composters If you don’t have a backyard or live in an apartment, you can always choose a worm composter for the same price, $25. This type of composter comes with a bin, lid and tray and about 500 worms to be your new best friends.

In the ground and gardens where they live, worms eat organic material like leaves and grass clippings. They also eat microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. Their digested food comes out as worm casts―otherwise known as worm poo!

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 RenfrewCollingwood.

Contact the RCCNews Phone: 604-435-0323 extension 261 Fax: 604-451-1191 Editorial: rccnews-editorial@cnh.bc.ca Advertising: Phone Lisa Symons or email: rccnews-sales@cnh.bc.ca Renfrew/Collingwood Community News Collingwood Neighbourhood House 5288 Joyce Street Vancouver, BC V5R 6C9

from entering the land fill.

Photos by Julie Cheng

You must be a Vancouver resident and have to take a one-hour workshop. City Farmer runs Vancouver’s worm composter sales. Contact them at 2150 Maple Street, Vancouver or 604736-2250. More info: http://vancouver.ca/home-propertydevelopment/apartment-worm-composters.aspx

Videos on How to Compost A video about how to compost in your backyard is available in different languages. Produced at the Vancouver Compost Demonstration Garden by City Farmer and the City of Vancouver.

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

Take Out Menu

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

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

Free Parking

How to Compost – Video in Cantonese http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5awCEfyyzk How to Compost – Video in Mandarin http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RoWyNueAuG0 How to Compost – Video in Punjabi http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_tNZ8O3y5Y

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Eating Out In RC: Mezbaan Mezbaan Fine Indian Fusion 3499 Kingsway 604-438-0404

November 2012

by Paul Reid

This could be your ad.

waste food, no foul in heading back for more.

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

And finally, folks, and what sets Mezbaan apart, and scoring high, high, HIGH, on the Gourment/Gourmand’s Scale of Goodness*, is the price for such excellent food. Hold onto your hats, but if you didn’t know already, the fine buffet at Let’s start with the heart of Mezbaan’s Mezbaan’s can be experienced popularity―the buffet. for the amazing pittance of just $7.99!. Did he say $7.99? I did. Chef Harry and Chef Mandeep But wait, there’s more. That’s for as Handi and Saffron. Now he lunch OR DINNER! Yes, on Mondays and Wednesdays, the buffet is available is joined by two other five-star chefs: Chef Harry and Chef ALL DAY for just $7.99. Wednesdays, Mandeep, also from New Delhi. remember, feature the fusion goods, so that, my friends, is the place to be New at Mezbaan: The chefs at Wednesday nights. The buffet, now Mezbaan are always introducing available every night at Mezbaan, is new fusion items to the menu. always an excellent deal, even at its We can also be on the lookout for regular dinner price of just $10.95.

Indian sweets―coming soon to Mezbaan. Chef T.J. asks that we First, we have all of that delicious food. With In concluson: All you can eat, gourmet keep our eyes out for the Mezbaan about 12 main dishes, along with the dessert food by five-star chefs, here in flyer―which contains their menu section, the buffet offers us a generous Collingwood, for less than you would assortment of gourmet offerings. Usually, likely spend at McDonalds. Case rested. for all of your take-out needs, discount coupons, and the entry it is the Indian classics that we will find form for the Mezbaan prize draw. here, while on Wednesdays, it is the fusion Apart from the buffet, Mezbaan offers The first draw will be held on side of Mezbaan that gets a chance to shine. a full array of Indian and fusion-style Christmas―prizes include dinner Indian-style Chinese food; Indian-style dishes. Recommendations include the Mexican food and lasagna are popular on Mango Chicken and the Prawn Coconut for Mezbaan―up to $100 value.

Wednesdays. In fact, with the exception of Curry. Actually, all of the coconut So if you haven’t been to Mezbaan, the butter chicken and rice, the entire buffet dishes are superb. “We do not buy or it’s been awhile, go taste the switches into fusion mode. “Total Fusion” is packaged spices,” says Chef T.J., “We what it has been dubbed. buy them whole and then ground them deliciousness for yourself and let’s put a permanent line-up outside a up.” door that deserves it. Bon appetit.

Secondly, we have the buffet’s all-you-caneat factor. I don’t know about you, but there Chef T.J., co-owner and head chef of is something comforting in knowing that one Mezbaan, is a former chef at five-star can eat until their heart is content. Yes, folks, restaurants in New Delhi, who was feel free to pig out. As long as you do not hand picked to work in such restaurants Greetings, food fans. A show of hands―how many of you have discovered the goodness which is Mezbaan? And how many of you are regulars? I am guessing about the same.

Let’s go back over the reasons for such an assumption.

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November 2012

Read On!

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

A news page for Renfrew-Collingwood learners

This year’s Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival was again a wonderful success. We were lucky to have great weather! It is always one of my favourite fall events, and I would like to sincerely thank all of the organizers and volunteers.

Change your clocks!  On Sunday, November 4 at 2:00 am, most Canadians will turn back their clocks by one hour. It is the end of Daylight Savings. We will sleep in an extra hour. At the end of the day, the sun will set one hour earlier.

Beth Grayer teaches in the ELSA program at Collingwood Neighbourhood House.

Read On! has a web page. You can:

Why do we have Daylight Savings Time? 

 Read the articles Listen to the articles

With longer days in the summer, the sun is up earlier–and so are we.

Before, most of us were curled up in bed when the sun rose. When we turn the clocks forward, we have more sunlight while we are awake.

At the end of the day, we get one extra hour of sunlight. Some people say we save on energy costs because we use less electric light. Others enjoy the light in the evening to do outdoor activities.

 Print worksheets www.cnh.bc.ca/ rccnews/readOn.html

Fall back  However, in the fall the days shorten. We change the clocks back so that we can have more light in the morning. Critics say the change is difficult for people to adjust to. There are often more accidents on the day after the change because people lose an hour of sleep and have to adjust to driving home in the dark. There are a few cities in Canada, and the province of Saskatchewan, that don’t adjust their clocks for Daylight Savings Time.

Reading levels on this page Level 1

Level 2

 

Some suggested remedies for the winter blues are: - Use a special bright light called an SAD light for 30 to 60 minutes a day. It has a similar effect on your body and brain as sunlight.

- Take supplements like vitamin D. - Find outdoor and indoor winter activities that you enjoy.

Diamond Jubilee Awards I was honoured to be asked to select four outstanding individuals to receive the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, recognizing them for service to our community.

Congratulations to Kate Perkins, the President of and advocate for the Trout Lake Community Centre, Ann Wong, an active parent with and vocal advocate for the successful Save Our Schools Campaign, Yee Ching Hoo, a dedicated volunteer at the Collingwood Neighborhood House and Bobbi Senft, a woman whose family has lived in our community for three generations, whose volunteer contributions have helped preserve our knowledge and appreciation for its heritage.

Remembrance Day, November 11th November 11th is Remembrance Day, set aside for all of us to take time to recognize the sacrifice of those who fought and died for their country in battle, and to remember how important it is to work for peace so we may never again face the tragedies of wartime.

Please join me on Sunday, November 11 at the Memorial Park Cenotaph, located at 41st Ave and Windsor St, to recognize the sacrifice that so many have made across the world. There will be a parade assembling at the west parking lot of John Oliver High School at 41st Ave and Fraser St at 9:45am – the service at the cenotaph will commence at 10:30am. If you are unable to attend a service, you may observe the traditional moment of silence at 11am.

Mandarin and Cantonese Caseworker

Some people tend to get sad, low energy and even depressed with these seasonal changes. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a kind of depression that only happens with the change of the seasons.

Dear Neighbours: Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival

Spring Forward, Fall Back

Do you have SAD? 

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

Level 3



Free ELSA English Classes!

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

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

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

新增中文服務時段 作為閣下的省代表， 本人樂意宣佈於本人辦公 室，新增定期中文服務時段，提供廣東話及國 語服務。 由2012年1月開始，逢星期一、二及 四 ，下午12時30分至3時30分。 本人辦公室能為閣下提供以下服務： 醫療事項、房屋事項、入息支助事項、確認文 件正本、免費影印及傳真服務 、轉介其他社區 資源 等等 。 狄德安 京士威區省議員 溫哥華Joyce街5022號 V5R 4G6 電話：604-660-0314 www.adriandix.ca 由2012年1月開始，逢星期一、二、四，下午12 時30分至3時30分。 本人助理Idy梁小姐樂於協助閣下所有關於卑詩 政府的事項。 A reminder: my Constituency Assistant, Miss Idy Leung, will be providing service in Cantonese or Mandarin, every Monday, Tuesday & Thursday from 12:30pm – 3:30pm.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

November 2012

Get Involved in Renfrew/Collingwood

7

Renfrew Park Community Centre

Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Now you can.

Pre-registration required for all programs.

Closed on Nov 2, Professional Day and,Nov 11 and 12 Remembrance Day

The Collingwood Mailing List is a single place to go to find out about all the events in Collingwood. When you subscribe to the Collingwood Mailing List, you’ll receive announcements about safety, art, culture, and community opportunities in Collingwood. You will also be able to share information about social and cultural events, help create and promote Block Watch teams, and meet more of your neighbours.

Sat. Nov 3 Community Diwali Celebration All Ages The festival of Diwali is a unifying celebration with different significance, but equal importance in many communities. People give expression to their happiness by lighting earthen diyas (lamps). The lighting of lamps is a way of paying obeisance to God for attainment of health, wealth, knowledge, peace, valor and fame. There will food sampling, Henna, Diya, Bollywood and Traditional Indian Dancing. Space is limited, so please register to ensure your spot.

1:00-3:00pm Free

Collingwood Mailing List Keeps Neighbours Connected How many times have you heard from a neighbour about a fantastic community event that happened just a few days ago? Were you frustrated that you missed an important community event? Do you wish you could have found out about all Collingwood neighbourhood events and programs in a single place?

To post to your Collingwood neighbours on the Collingwood Mailing List, all you have to do is send an email to collingwood@vancouvercommunity. net.

Moderators will usually approve these types of messages: • Requests for volunteers • Requests for roommates • Announcements of community events • Announcements of rooms, apartments, and homes for rent by owner • Requests for donations • Requests for neighbourhood information • Blockwatch Team Announcements • Information about Collingwood Parks • Links to electronic copies of Collingwood newsletters • Information about programs of interest to Collingwood residents Messages that will usually be rejected include commercial related requests and info and business ads.

If you would like to subscribe, go to http://vancouvercommunity.net/lists/ info/collingwood and follow the directions to subscribe.

Programs at Your Local Library Renfrew Branch, 2969 E. 22nd Ave. at Renfrew, 604-257-8705 www.facebook.com/renfrewlibrary

Children’s Programs at Renfrew Branch All programs are drop-in. Children must be with caregivers.

Babytime (0-18 months). Wednesdays, 10:15–10:45 am, November 7– December 5 Toddlertime (18 months-3 years). Wednesdays, 11:15–11:45 am, November 73–December 5 Family Storytime (2-7 years). Mondays, 3:30–4:00 pm, November 5– December 3; Saturdays, 11:15–11:45 am, November 3–December 8 Adult Programs at Renfrew Branch Tech Café at VPL. Saturdays, 1:00 to 3:00 pm, October 20–December 8 Need extra help with the computer? Join us at the Renfrew Branch to practice your basic computer skills, learn some Internet search strategies, create an email account and more. Drop in any time and stay as long as you need. No registration required. This is not a class. For more information, visit the Renfrew Branch Information Desk or call 604-257-8705. Offered in English and Mandarin.

Collingwood Branch, 2985 Kingsway at Rupert St., 604-665-3953 Fall Storytimes at Collingwood Babytime (0-18 months). Thursdays 10:15 am, November 1–December 13 Toddlertime (18 months-3 years). Thursdays 11:15 am, November 1-December 13 Preschool Storytime (3-5 years). Fridays 11:15 am, November 2–December 14

2929 East 22 Avenue at Renfrew Phone: 604.257.8388 ext. 3 Web page: www.renfrewcc.com

Thu. Nov 15 Flu Clinic Evergreen Health Unit All Ages All ages welcome on a first come, first serve basis. No appointment needed.

1:00-3:00pm Free Sat, Nov 17 Final Celebration All Ages The resident artists of Something Collective, invite all Renfrew Community members. Explore your neighbourhood through dance, sound, video, green graffiti, puppets and photography.

Free 1:00-3:30pm Wed. Nov 21 Touch of Paris Luncheon 55+yrs Enjoy the flavors of Paris. There will be a full lunch, entertainment and door prizes. $9/person 12:00-2:30pm Sat. Nov 24 Craft Fair 19+yrs Get a head start on your Christmas shopping at our Craft Fair. It’s a great place to find unique gifts. If you are the crafty sort, come and sell your own handmade items.

Free Admission Fri. Nov 30 Harrison River Eagle Tour 55+yrs Harrison River has one of the largest concentrations of bald eagles in North America with a count of over 6,000 eagles in 2011. This may be the best eagle viewing in BC history! . Lunch and admission included $79/person 9:00am-5:00pm

5288 Joyce Street at Euclid Phone: 604-435-0323

Sundays, Nov 4, 18, 25 Badminton 19+, 10:15 am - 12:15 pm Wushu Ages 6 -17, 5:00 - 6:30 pm Mondays, Nov 5, 19, 26 Seniors’ Yoga Drop-in, 9:30 - 10:30 am Seniors’ T’ai Chi (24 Form), 10:45 - 11:45 am Zumba, 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm Seniors’ Wellness Group, 1:00 - 3:00 pm (Pick-up schedule at reception) Children Volleyball, 4:00 - 5:30 pm Jazzercise, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Volleyball, 8:15 - 10:00 pm Tuesdays, Nov 6, 13, 20, 27 Parent & Tots, 10:00 - 11:45 am Jazzercise, 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm Hatha Yoga, 6:45 - 8:15 pm Zumba, 7:15 - 8:15 pm Pre-Ballet and Creative Dance, 2:50 - 3:35 pm (Ages 2 1/2 -3 1/2) 3:40 - 4:25 pm (Ages 3 - 5) 4:30 - 5:30 pm (Ages 6 - 8) ZumbAtonic, 3:45 - 4:30 pm (Ages 4 - 7) 4:45 - 5:30 pm (Ages 8 - 12) Children Gymnastics, 4:15 - 5:15 pm (Ages 5 -7) 5:15 - 6:45 pm (Ages 7 - 10) Wednesdays, Nov 7, 14, 21, 28 Chinese Classical Dance, 9:30 - 11:00 am (Adults & Seniors) Seniors’ Strength & Stretch , 11:00 am - 12:00 noon 32 Form T’ai Chi Sword, 11:15 am - 12:15 pm Zumba, 12:05 - 1:05 pm 32 Form T’ai Chi Sword, 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm Seniors’ Gentle Chair Yoga, 1:00 - 2:00 pm Floor Hockey, 3:45 - 4:45 pm Basketball, 4:50 - 5:50 pm (Ages 9 - 12) Jazzercise, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Zumba, 7:15 - 8:15 pm Badminton, 8:30 - 10:15 pm Children Gymnastics, 5:00 - 7:00 pm (Ages 11+) Thursdays, Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Seniors’ Yoga Drop in, 9:30 - 10:30 am Parents and Tots, 10:00 - 11:45 am Seniors’ Coffee, 10:30 am - 12:00 noon Jazzercise, 12:00 noon - 1:00 pm Children Soccer, 3:45 - 4:45 pm (Ages 6 - 8) 5:00 - 6:00 pm (Ages 9 - 12) 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, Nov 9, 16, 23, 30 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, 12:40 - 1:40 pm Jazzercise, 6:00 - 7:00 pm Zumba Toning, 9:15 - 10:15 am Saturdays, Nov 3, 10, 17, 24 Jazzercise, 10:00 - 11:00 am Spanish with Fun (Ages 3 - 5), 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Zumba, 11:15 am - 12:15 pm Piano Class, 12:30 - 1:15 pm (Ages 8 - 9) 10:30 - 11:15 am & 11:30 - 12:15 pm (Ages 5 - 7) Fun with Math, 10:30 - 11:30 am & 11:30 - 12:30 pm Guitar Class for Pre-Teen, 10:45 am - 12:45 pm Children Gymnastics, 9:15 - 10:15 am (Ages 5 - 7) 10:15 - 11:45 am (Ages 7 - 10, intermediate and beginners)

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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

November 2012

Exploring Vancouver: The Architectural Halloween Guide Safety book review by John Mendoza

From the Collingwood Community Policing Office

For those individuals seeking a greater understanding and appreciation of Vancouver’s architectural history, the book Exploring Vancouver: The Architectural Guide by Harold Kalman and Robin Ward is a friendly, accessible guide.

Discovering the architectural highlights of our community― both old and new―will be easy with this book in hand.

It is that time of year when children are excited about Halloween, constantly asking for new Halloween costumes and there is excitement to collect massive piles of candy. As we draw closer to the spooky event there is some Halloween reminders for children, parents and drivers.

The book makes learning about our built environment easy and straightforward. It is divided into colour-coded tabbed sections according to neighbourhood, such as South Vancouver and Downtown. Within each section is an overview of each neighbourhood’s development and history, followed by short write-ups on the area’s architectural highlights. Coloured photos of buildings are featured on each page. Neighbourhood maps feature each architectural highlight numbered and marked, and a suggested route is even provided to those who would like to see the sites in person.

With user-friendly features like these, the guide could be read cover to cover, or readers can skip around the book, reading only those selections that have the most relevance or appeal. A glossary of architectural terms at the back of the book is available, helping to demystifying some the more arcane terms (clerestory, caryatid, porte cochere). No dry academic treatment of the subject here!

Perhaps the book’s greatest gift is how it can easily transform the perceptions of residents who move through the city without seeing the values of the built environment. Even though Vancouver is a relatively young city, there are merits to its architecture and history.

For example, in its section on South Vancouver (that incorporates RenfrewCollingwood), the development of South Vancouver varied greatly compared to that of the west side of Vancouver. Fewer parks were planned, some streets were irregularly aligned and narrow, and sometimes even conflicting land uses existed side by side. (In the 1980s, the area east of Joyce Collingwood Skytrain station had light industry and warehousing before the area was redeveloped for medium to high density housing.)

Permit for fireworks To purchase and handle fireworks you are required to have a permit.

The permit allows the permit hold over the age of 19 to discharge fireworks on October 31, 2012 only.

Family fireworks cannot be discharged in a street, lane or public place. Family fireworks can only be purchased from retailers with a permit to sell family fireworks.

To obtain the permit to purchase and discharge family fireworks two approved forms of identification and general knowledge of fireworks safety are required.

You can apply online at: www.vancouver.ca/fire. Note: This permit is valid only for the city of Vancouver.

Learning about the local history imparts understanding as to why our neighbourhoods look and feel the way they do. Most importantly, the guide attempts to highlight all of a neighbourhood’s architectural strengths.

It’s good to see such familiar sites as the 2400 Motel, Collingwood Branch library and Guy Carleton Elementary in the book, but also to see others like the contemporary Renfrew Branch library, the Purdy’s Chocolate building and the Earles Station housing development. RenfrewCollingwood ceases to be a mundane neighbourhood but a place of distinctive architectural history and also potential.

Consequently, the drive to maintain and better our neighbourhoods through exemplary architecture and urban design, especially in Renfrew-Collingwood, is a noble goal that benefits all.

Good architectural and urban design are still within reach and definitely can enhance our everyday living. This book reminds the readership that we have welldesigned buildings in all of Vancouver’s neighbourhoods, and their presence is worth knowing.

Firework safety • Never let young children handle fireworks • Read and follow instructions on packaging carefully • Light fireworks one at a time from a distance using a lighting stick • Have water source ready (garden hose, bucket of water)

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS KIDS

• • • • • • •

Costumes should be light in colour with reflective strips Visit homes that have the porch light on Bring a flashlight Stay in well-lit areas Trick or Treat with friends (Do not go out alone) Do not cut through back alleys and parks Cross at intersections or crosswalks and always look both ways

PARENTS

• Review with your kids what to do and where to go in case of emergency • Make sure children accept treats at the door and not enter the home • Thoroughly check the candy before anyone eats it • Throw away any unsealed or open candy • Know your children’s trick or treat route & know when they are returning

DRIVERS John Mendoza is a regular contributor of art, architecture and history articles to the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News.

• Slow down • Be aware of kids who might run across the street • Be aware of crosswalks and interseions ahead of you

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Advertise with the Renfrew Collingwood Community News

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and reach 15,000 readers in this area.

Contact Lisa at 604-435-0323 or email rccnews-sales@cnh.bc.ca Groundworks Construction Supply Ltd 2806 Grandview Hwy Ph: 604-322-6790

Renfrew Park Community Centre 2929 E 22nd Ave Ph: 604-257-8392

Renfrew-Collingwood Community

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North  Broadway

E.22nd Ave.

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E.41st Ave.

Kingsway

Collingwood Insurance Ph: 604.438.9888

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London Square Dental Centre #220 3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.435.4545

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5750 Tyne Street

Jo yc eS t.

Ru pe rt St.

Ea rle sS t.

E.33rd Ave.

2066 Kingsway

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E.29th Ave.

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The Tipper Restaurant Ph: 604.873.1010

Renfrew St.

Nanaimo St.

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Grandview Hwy.

Boundary Rd.

Collingwood Neighbourhood House 5288 Joyce Street.

Ph: 604.435.0323

Slocan St.

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P & D Automotive Ltd Ph: 604.438.5519

2895 E.22nd Ave.

Joyce Hair Design Ph: 604.451.7680

5156 Joyce St.

Renovations Begin on Carleton School House Mid October, construction began on the historic Carleton school house at Kingsway and Joyce to transform it into rehearsal spaces and the new administrative offices of arts group Green Thumb Theatre.

Founded in 1975, Green Thumb Theatre develops original plays for young audiences. For the first time in 37 years, Green Thumb Theatre will have a permanent home. Welcome, Green Thumb, what a great addition to the neighbourhood!

Carleton Hall is Vancouver’s oldest surviving school.

Built in 1896, this two-room school house was used continuously as a school until it was damaged by a fire in March 2008. It sat empty until, in 2010, Green Thumb Theatre stepped in to save it.

Visit greenthumb.bc.ca to find historical info on Carleton Hall and Green Thumb’s environmentally friendly plan to restore the building. You can also keep up to date on Green Thumb Theatre’s School House Project at facebook.com/schoolhouseproject.

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Papa John’s Pizza Ph: 604.310.PAPA

#300-3340 Kingsway

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November 2012

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

The Seniors Connection

Helping seniors live well in Renfrew-Collingwood

Collingwood Neighbourhood House Seniors Share Their Stories

by Timothy Shay Everyone has a personal story or interesting family history. Our own story is not only important to who we are, but holds importance for our family, friends and community. During a recent Senior’s Literacy Group meeting at the Collingwood Towers, those in attendance were asked to tell stories that are important or special to them. Any seniors active in Collingwood Senior’s Programs are invited and encouraged to contact this paper to arrange an interview.

Sharing our history helps to build a stronger community.

Muriel Ann Rivard, best known as Ann, responded with a moving story of great importance to her and her family, and to many others in the greater community who have experienced similar situations.

job and missed the social aspects of her work.

When Ann moved into Collingwood Tower (an apartment building for tenants 55 years and older), she attended a neighbourhood meeting in the building and decided to join them. The literacy group Ann joined had a student teacher helping a variety of interested tenants (Chinese, Russian, Romanian), learn conversational English. Wen, the student teacher from Langara College, asked Ann to help her out at these meetings. That was three years ago and the meetings continue, every Thursday morning at 9:30 am, facilitated by Melissa Chungfat of Collingwood Neighbourhood House.

Ann’s involvement at CNH is an invitation to all local seniors. Drop in, look at the activity schedules, (including regular Ann is a regular participant in a variety of economic meal offerings), ask some Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) questions at the front desk and feel programs. She attends a weekly literacy group welcome to participate. at Collingwood Towers and, as part of the CASI Walking Club, meets on Monday and Muriel Ann Rivard is well known for her Wednesday mornings, 10:30 am, at the CNH delicious cakes and treats with which she entrance to enjoy coffee, good conversation, favours every meeting she attends. So, as and often field trips to parks, malls and more. you read Ann’s story, in her own words, She is an active member of the local Seniors be sure you have some cake and tea and a Advisory Group and a board member of CNH. comfortable chair.

Until her retirement, Ann enjoyed her employment filing for an investment company. Due to cutbacks in many companies she was let go at 72 years old. She enjoyed her

Timothy Shay is serving his practicum as a Sprottshaw College Community Services Worker at the Collingwood Neighbourhood House.

Ann Rivard at a conversational literacy group meeting, Thursday mornings at Collingwood Towers.

MY STORY BY MURIEL ANN RIVARD 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 In the 50s I was a very naïve 19-year-old. with her in Alberta. I kept seeing him without my parents knowing. He would I met a man who I thought I would be be waiting for me outside of where I spending my life with. I was very much worked. One evening we were sitting in love with him. We did everything looking out on the water and Roy said together. One evening when I was waiting at the bowling alley to meet Roy let’s go and get married on the Victoria there, my father came bursting into the ferry. I was too scared, but really wanted bowling alley and asked if I was to meet to. How naïve I was. him and I said yes.

Consequently I found out I was pregnant and I had to quit work. I didn’t My dad said, “you are not to see him get a chance to tell him I was pregnant anymore” and I asked why. He said a so he never ever knew. I was due in lady had phoned and said she was August and my parents said I could married to him. I said I don’t believe it not keep the baby, I would have to and I would confront him to hear what give it up for adoption. They brought he said. My dad left in a huff.

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

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, also I had written a poem for her.

I had given everything to the social worker to give to the adopting parents as I was not allowed to know their name or where they lived. I was told that they had met and married in the Air Force. For my hobbies I Continued on page 11

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS Continued from page 10

had written that I like to go horseback riding and that I took piano lessons.

I will tell you about that a little later. I also asked the parents if one of her names could be Ramona, which is what my brother and I named her.

My mother, sister and aunt came up to see her in the hospital. I was in the hospital for close to a week. I really didn’t want to leave as I would not see her again.

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November 2012 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.

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 Ann (standing) with her daughter and her daughter’s from coming in. Two adoptive mother. people (government workers), came to the That was Sunday and the following hospital for me to sign the adoption Friday I met her in Gastown. We papers. One of the hardest things just stared at each other for a very I have ever had to do. I kept telling long time. Then after the shock we myself that she would have a better walked with her suitcase for a couple life with the adopting parents, as of blocks and she met someone she I would not have enough money knew. They said to her, you don’t to care for her. I was so sad when I Have you heard about the Community Action for have to introduce me, that has to be came back home. At least my family your mother, you look so much like Seniors’ Independence (CASI) project? didn’t have to lie for me anymore. The her. I felt quite proud then. following year my eldest sister, (14 Please call 604-435-0375 for more information and register as a new client. Seniors years older than me), gave birth to my It was such a relief not lying to or their family members are invited to call or email casi@gmail.com. niece Lori, which was very hard on me. anyone anymore, after 25 years.

You can also visit our website: http://casirenfrewcollingwood.wordpress.com Within a couple of days, my brother, his wife and my two sisters got We offer the following services: together and bought champagne Transportation: For a donation, our van will pick you up from home and drive you to for our special meeting. Ramona’s and from local appointments, for example, doctors’ appointments, prescription pick up, adoptive mother had come from Comox on Vancouver Island (her the hairdresser, grocery store, or library. father stayed home as they were Light Housekeeping: Trained housekeepers to help with light housekeeping such in the middle of moving). I really Consequently, the happy part of this as mopping, dusting, cleaning the kitchen and bathroom and simple yardwork or cried when I met her mother as story. When Ramona was 25 years old gardening. Seniors are charged on a sliding scale and a $5 travel fee. Please phone she thanked me for giving her a and I was 45 years (the age my mother wonderful daughter. to begin the application process. gave birth to me), on Mother’s Day, Walking Clubs: Our free walking clubs bring local residents together for a weekly walk May 10, 1981, Ramona had located I was one of the lucky ones. I was where I was, but thought she should with leaders trained by CASI. Meet at the CNH lobby on Mondays and Wednesdays at blessed with a second family, her go through “Parent Finders” to make 10:30 a.m. and join the group afterwards for coffee and snacks. parents, sister-in-law, etc., are like the phone call to me. So when I my second family now, I love them Information and Referral: The Renfrew-Collingwood Seniors’ Guide has arrived! answered the phone on that Mother’s dearly.

Contact CASI to find out where to pick up your handbook. A small donation for each Day and the lady on the other end book is greatly appreciated. of the phone said, what does August Her mother is now 94 years old and 14th, 1956 mean to you, well I just living in a home in Courtenay, where Community Action for Seniors’ Independence is looking for people who are available on an about dropped the phone. My I go often with Ramona. Her father on-call basis to do work around the home, specifically for yardwork such as raking leaves 13-year-old son was wondering what passed away a couple of years ago. and lawnmowing. Housekeepers are paid on a sliding scale starting at minimum wage. was going on. So I told him when I They made sure that Kim Ramona Applicants must have valid First Aid. Please call 604-435-0375 or email casicnh@gmail. got off the phone. He thought about Orr had a piano and horseback riding com. More info: http://casirenfrewcollingwood.wordpress.com it for a long time and then said well lessons. She has two mothers and mom, I guess everyone is entitled to a two brothers. I see her quite often as CASI is a pilot project funded by the United Way of Lower Mainland and the Government of BC. mistake. she lives close by, with her partner.

Affordable and Free Services for Seniors (65+)

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

CASI is administered by Collingwood Neighbourhood House.

Hana, Chef Sabrina, and Amr at Pyramids Mediterranean Foods.

Pyramids Mediterranean Food is one of the newest businesses to grace Collingwood, opening its doors on September first of this year. Run by Amr Halem and his wife Hana and Chef Sabrina, Pyramids invites us to “experience a world of taste.”

Located in the Boundary Plaza (Boundary and Kingsway), the store carries a variety of grocery items from Canada and the Mediterranean. It has now evolved to offer hot foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a nice sitting area with tables and chairs. “Every day, our chef, Sabrina, prepares a different variety of hot, fresh food―at good prices.”

“Mediterranean food is very healthy,” says Hana. “We use very little vegetable oil and the food is low in cholesterol.” For breakfast, croissants, bagels, muffins, omelettes, scrambled eggs with toast are available. For lunch and dinner, Pyramids offers pita wraps: Shawarma wrap; Falafel wrap, Vegetarian wrap, Mix Grill wrap, Beef Kebab wraps. They also offer Manakish, which is like a pizza that is then folded into a wrap.

For lunch and dinner you can buy by the plate. With each plate, you can choose one item from four catagories. Group 1: Basmati Rice, Fried Rice, Kosharee, Kabsa, Paella, Macaroni Bechamel; Group 2: Roast Chicken, Roast Lamb, Tilapia Fish, Beef Kofta, Chicken Wings, Beef Kebab, Shish Taouk, Shawarma, Mix Grill (Beef & Chicken); Group 3: Roast Potatoes, Baked Beans, Baked Carrots, Baked Cauliflower, Eggplant Casserole, Steamed Vegetables; Group 4: Greek Salad, Hummus, Tabbouleh, Caesar Salad, Spinach Salad, Beet Salad, Chicken Broccoli Salad.

CBIA UPDATES l Board of Directors for the 2012 – 2013 President: Brad Cowell – Bikram’s Yoga Vice President: Stephen Hill, Starbucks Boundary Plaza Secretary: Angela Lam, Vancity Treasurer: Gary Palmiere, Construction & Specialized Worker’s Union 1611 Sikander Visram – Visram & Co. Law Marlina Musto-Bonnila – Intention Martial Arts Monita Chan – BM Chan International College of Cosmetology Nav Dardi – Panago Pizza Shelley Craig – London Drugs New to the Board: Phil Dela Merced – The UPS Store Stephen Lau – Global Mall Media Corp.

Pyramid also offers a wide variety of freshly made salads: Greek; Chicken Pea, Spinach, Caesar, Hummus, Waldorf, Egg, Babaganouj, Tabbouleh, Mixed Bean, Fruit, Couscous, Chicken Broccoli, Potato, Seafood, Lemon Mushroom, Tuna Pasta, Grilled Eggplant, Antipasto, Chicken Caesar, Italian Garden, Beet, Penne Primavera, Fatouche, Tomato Mozzarella and Greek Pasta and Pepper.

Hana is from Beirut, Lebanon and Amr is from Cairo, Egypt. Amr, former captain of Egypt’s national volleyball team, enjoys exercising when he can. Otherwise, he too is immersed in business. He has a master’s degree in business management and a diploma in project management from UBC. Hannah enjoys shopping, reading and walking/hiking around Vancouver. She has been working very hard to get the business set up and running.

Chef Sabrina Bouzid is originally from Algiers, Algeria. She then moved to France where she graduated from a culinary college. Currently with 25 years’ cooking experience, Sabrina is a pastry chef instructor at the H.A.V.E. Culinary Training Society. Dedicated to food, in her spare time Chef Bouzid enjoys reading recipe books.

Pyramid is their first business together. Open from 9am to 9pm, every day of the week, Pyramids also carries a selection of beverages and snacks and offers free delivery and free WiFi.

l Fall Promotions – Ends November 2nd, 2012 Win What You Like;) - Like us on FACEBOOK Post what you like about Collingwood (a restaurant, a store, a service and place an event for example) on Collingwood’s FACEBOOK wall. You could WIN up to $100.00 to spend where you LIKE in Collingwood. Winner will be announced in the December Renfew –Collingwood Community Newspaper. l Winter Carnival & Community Christmas Tree Lighting December 1, 2012, 4 – 8pm under the tent in the Safeway parking lot.

Music, magic by Matthew Johnson, movie provided by the Collingwood Community Policing Centre and Santa will be there to light the tree and take photos. (See the Ad on page 16) l Christmas Merchant Promotion for the month of December – More information next month.

*This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Business Improvement Association

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

13

November 2012

Popular Local U-Brew Reopens in Time for the Holidays It’s been a work in progress for a few months but Beyond The Grape Wine Works has now become Far Beyond The Grape Wine Works.

SUGGESTION BOX

SUGGESTION BOX

Help Us Improve the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News Enter your idea, suggestion or story by October 1, 2012 and get a chance to win a prize!

The U-brew wine-making shop, located at 2603 Kingsway (one block east of Slocan) was bought in the spring by Gail Hammond from the O’Connell family, who have been running the shop since its inception in 1998. A regular customer of Beyond The Grape Look for the purple barrel in front of Far Beyond The Grape Wine Works on Kingsway near Slocan. for 10 years, Gail worked with Diane O’Connell for eight months, learning all the family secrets to I live in the neighborhood and if you’ve To celebrate the grand reopening, great wine making. ever seen someone dancing down Gail is offering discounts off Kingsway chances are it’s me.”

2011 limited editions such as the There have been some changes made Spanish Matadore Trio, South to the store but the wines are still African Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon, “Whether you are looking for an of the highest quality, says Gail. “I everyday drinking wine, a long-term Okanagan Peach Ice Wine Style enjoy the feeling of satisfaction that aging wine, an ice wine style, sherry or and Blackberry Port. “Order now comes when customers are taking and you’ll have wine in time for port, you will save money by making home a product they are happy with. your own wine with us,” says Gail.

Christmas!”

Or email your entry to rccnews-editorial@cnh.bc.ca

ea, suggestion or story by October 1, 2012 nce to win a prize!

New draw date December 15 for a $25 gift certificate to the Penang Delight Cafe.

ove the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News

SUGGESTION BOX

I would like to turn this article now towards the United States and start with a quote that is in their Constitution. “Everyone has a right to defend themselves.” In Colorado and Texas, just to mention two states,

I personally do not have any resentment or animosity towards a hunter, who enjoys the sport of killing animals. For hunters, there are strict rules that have to be abided by in storing their weapons as well as their ammunition. Also there are rules for the proper use and handling of these weapons when hunting. This is

Innocent people in Canada, United States and especially Mexico are paying a high price with their lives, when unscrupulous criminals and mentally unstable people who have these weapons at large. Any law-abiding citizen pays a large portion of their income towards taxes to pay for police forces and military to protect them from both these kinds of people and enemies abroad. There is no need for us to return to the Wild West and settle our arguments on Main Street with who’s the fastest gun in town.

Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street at Euclid.

ow we can improve your local paper or give us a

In British Columbia, gang wars are jeopardizing the safety of the general citizens with gun violence.

As Canadians we spent in excess of $2 billion in gun registration, only for another prime minister to discontinue and, what was worse, destroy any of the evidence of people who were in the possession of guns.

Clip this notice and drop it in the suggestion box attached to the RCC News stand at:

____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________ ____________________________________

In the same province a street party turned into mayhem with teenagers being killed, and many other people being injured which once again was by handgun.

___________________ Phone: ___________ ___________________

It is unacceptable in today’s standards of human rights to venture out for an evening to a movie theatre and be part of a massacre of 12 people killed, and many more permanently injured and again with hand weapons.

Name: __________________________ Phone: _____________________ Email: __________________________

ce and drop it in the suggestion box attached to s stand at:

definitely not done on a continuous basis, for every year during hunting season hunters managed to kill one of their own.

Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street at Euclid.

by Robert F. Edwards

Nor do I oppose target practice with any form of guns. These weapons should not be in the possession of the owners other than when they’re practising. The rest of the time their guns should be stored at the gun range in which These are only a few examples of the tip they are practising. The simplest of the iceberg of handguns and assault and most efficient practice would weapons. These weapons have no place be the same as one uses with a in society other than with registered safety deposit box; you have one In the province of Ontario, in a police officers or military. Let there key and the bank has the other. shopping mall in downtown Toronto, a be no mistake that any kind of guns, Both parties would then know gunman killed innocent people as well regardless of size or purpose, have one when the gun is absent from its as injuring others in a gun battle with a thing in common and that is to kill or safety box, or safety device at the handgun. to injure something that is living. shooting range.

Today, we can look back at the beginning of this year or even in the last few months and witness the violence that is taking place in killing innocent people in public places. I would like to start by what’s taken place on the streets in Canada. The number-one city in Canada for the most homicides is Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Let us know we can improve your Thank youhow for supporting the RCC News. local paper or give us a story idea: __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

r entry to rccnews-editorial@cnh.bc.ca

along with many others, it is perfectly legal to have a concealed handgun on your person in the areas of the general public.

All entries will be eligible for a prize draw. Draw date: October 1.

ll be eligible for a prize draw. Draw date: October 1.

This article is primarily going to address handguns and assault weapons. I would like every reader to know this is my opinion, not the editor’s, nor the newspaper’s.

Guns and Their Purpose

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Cafe. Winner beJoyce announced Or email your to rccnews-editorial@cnh.bc.ca inentry the January issue.

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The other guy’s opinion

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November 2012

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Collingwood Neighbourhood House

H IGHLIG H TS

Get crafty with local artisans on December 1 Crafty Renfrew-Collingwood residents are invited to participate in the Winter Craft Fair set for Saturday, December 1 at Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH). And all residents are invited to attend the fair to pick up one-of-a-kind, locally produced items.

Tue. Nov 6 Sweet potato soup, Chicken wings, Quinoa salad, Fruit tart Thur. Nov 8 Irish stew with potatoes, Salad, Almond cookies

The event also includes wandering live entertainment by local talent and delicious snacks and refreshments.

Tue. Nov 13 Borscht soup, Tuna salad on bun, Salad, Cranberry orange cake

The Winter Craft Fair will run from 11 am to 5 pm on Saturday December 1 at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street (just two blocks south of the Joyce-Collingwood SkyTrain station). For more information please call 604-435-0323.

ZumbaGold offers popular class at a slower pace

Tue. Nov 20 Minestrone soup, Ground turkey and veggie stromboli, Salad, Brownies Thur. Nov 22 Roasted beef with roasted potatoes and veggies Salad, Peach tart

Thur. Nov 29 Spaghetti meat sauce and tomato sauce, Salad /garlic bread, Coconut cake

Zumba, the latest craze in fitness, combines catchy Latin tunes with choreography for an aerobic workout that feels like a dance party! Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) offers Zumba classes for children through adults.

ZumbaGold will take place on Fridays at CNH from 12:40 to 1:40 pm. There will be a free, trial class at CNH on January 11 from 12:40-1:40 pm so those thinking about taking the class can try it out.

Classes will start the following week, on Friday, January 18.

Thur. Nov 15 Chicken cacciatore with rice, Salad, Baklava

Tue. Nov 27 Cauliflower soup, Hot basil chicken panini Salad, Chocolate pudding

Have you wanted to try Zumba but felt a bit intimidated by the pace? ZumbaGold may be for you.

Some adults have mentioned that while they’d like to try Zumba, they feel anxious about whether they’ll be able to pick up the fast-paced choreography or keep up with the class speed. Starting in January, CNH will offer a slower-paced, easy-to-follow ZumbaGold class suitable for those who want to try Zumba at a little slower pace.

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 $4.85 for seniors, $6 for adults and $3.25 for students. Items can be purchased a la carte or “to go.”

Thur. Nov 1 Shepherds pie, Salad, Chocolate cake

Organized by the Renfrew-Collingwood Multicultural Artist Network (RCMAN) the fair kicks off the season in style with many booths offering a huge assortment of items from a number of different cultural traditions.

Crafters offer woodwork, pottery, jewellery, paintings, knitting, baking, art, holiday decorations and other seasonal items.

Artisans wanting to participate in selling their wares at the event must register for a table. Each sixfoot table is $25. Please complete a registration form at CNH or contact Rosanne Lambert at rcmancraftfair@gmail.com to receive the form by e-mail. Table registration opens November 1.

COMMUNITY LUNCH

Drop-in cost is $5.50 per class. Passes are available at $55 for 12 classes (a savings of $11 over the drop-in fees for 12 classes).

CNH will still offer a range of Zumba classes: For adults: Mondays: Tuesdays: Wednesdays:

Fridays:

Saturdays:

12:05 - 1:05 pm 7:15 - 8:15 pm 12:05 - 1:05 pm 7:15 - 8:15 pm 9:15 - 10:15 am (Zumba Toning) 12:40 - 1:40 pm (ZumbaGold) 11:15 am - 12:15 pm

This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House

CNH also offers ZumbAtomic classes specifically created for children (in two age groups) and the classes offer high-energy, kid friendly routines. Classes will start on Tuesday January 22 and run weekly every Tuesday through March 26. The cost is $35 for 10 classes.

ZumbAtomic for 4-7-year-old girls and boys will run from 3:45 - 4:30 pm while classes for 8-12-year-old boys and girls will run 4:45 5:30 pm – both sets of classes are offered on Tuesdays.

For more information or to register please call CNH at 604-435-0323

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

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November 2012

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

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    Wed, November 21st 12:00-2:30pm

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

3 Easy ways to register Starting Monday, November 19th at 9:00am

Cost: $9/adult

1.Click

Join us for the flavours of Paris.

There will be a full lunch, entertainment with Clare Brett and door prizes. Register early!

Menu: Beef Bourguignon, potatoes, green beans and Crème caramel.

Register online www.vancouver.ca/renfrewrec Pay by MasterCard or Visa

Starting Tuesday, November 20th at 9:30am

2. Come In

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

Pay by cash, cheque, credit card or debit

Starting Wednesday, November 21st at 9:30am

3. Call

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

 

Sun, November 11th & Mon, November 12th Pool & Fitness Centre 1:00pm-5:00pm Centre Area Closed



  Saturday, November 24th 10:00am-3:00pm “Free” Admission

Get a head start on your Christmas shopping at our Craft Fair. It’s a great place to find unique gifts. If you are the crafty sort, come and sell your own handmade items.

Shake the Salt Habit

by Kathy Romses, RD Sodium is found in salt. Most of us eat too much sodium, more than double the amount we need.

More than 75% of the sodium we eat comes from processed foods such as cheese, deli meats, pizza, sauces and soups.

Eating too much sodium may lead to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for stroke, heart disease and kidney disease. Three in 10 Canadians are diagnosed with high blood pressure from eating too much sodium.

 

Our Seniors are Metal winners at the BC Senior Games. Congratulations: Johnson Song & Joe Leon- Men’s doubles, Gold Kathy Khim Song & Takako Nakane- Women’s doubles, Gold

Universal Seasoning Try this seasoning to flavour foods without salt.

1 tbsp (15 ml) dried mustard 1 tbsp (15 ml) paprika 1 tbsp (15 ml) garlic powder 1 tbsp (15 ml) onion powder 1 1/2 tsp (7 ml) black pepper 1 tsp (5 ml) dried basil 1 tsp (5 ml) dried thyme Mix all ingredients in a small bowl or cup and store in a salt or pepper shaker.

Source: Healthy Eating for Seniors, ActNowBC

Tips to Lower Sodium 1. Choose fresh foods prepared with little or no salt rather than prepackaged and processed foods.

2. Compare food labels when choosing foods. Look for products with a sodium content of less than 15% of daily value. Remember to consider the serving size listed on the Nutrition Facts table.

3. Season foods with herbs and salt-free spices, lemon, vinegar, garlic and onion.

4. Rinse and drain all canned beans, peas and lentils under cold, running water to rinse off some of the sodium.

5. Limit the amount of sauces, dressings and condiments, like ketchup and soy sauce, that’s added to foods.

6. When eating out, ask for low sodium (salt) choices. Look for restaurants that are part of the Informed Dining Program that provides customers with sodium information to help you make healthier choices.

For more information on lowering sodium, visit the www. healthyfamiliesbc.ca website or call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 and ask to speak to a dietitian. The HealthLink BC service is available in 130 different languages.

Kathy Romses is a registered dietitian working with the Infant, Child and Youth Program at the Evergreen Community Health Centre. She has a master’s degree in adult education from the University of BC. Kathy is passionate about supporting people to make healthy eating choices to help them enjoy a happy, healthy life.

November 2012

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Vancouver High School Students Compete in Cross Country Race This fall, high school students from across Vancouver vied for top spot in four cross country races of up to 7.6 kilometres for the boys and 4.4 km for the girls. They were preparing for the Zone Championships held October 24 at Fraserview Park in the Champlain Heights neighbourhood of East Vancouver. Coached by P.E. teacher Brad White, the Windermere Secondary Cross Country team—Mark Szantai and Alex Leung, both grade 11; Vivek Sharma, grade 12; and Kate Fergusson, grade 8—was a small group but they ran with big hearts. The top 20 finishers in the Zones qualify for the BC Provincial Championships early November.

Above: About 100 boys get ready at the start.

Right: Kate Fergusson is on pace to qualify for the Provincials.

If We Love Our Children art and message by Ricardo Cerna

As parents, we invite you to read, consider and provide your input on this message.

Think about what it will mean for our children and our students. Think about how our country, our city, our community can benefit. And think about what your own role will be in ensuring that this vision takes hold, because teachers cannot do it alone.

We will need each and every parent to play a part in building a bright future for our children. This begins with education and we must do everything we can to ensure that each and every child has the opportunity to maximize their potential— to be able to grow up equipped to take care of themselves and their families and contribute to their communities.

British Columbia’s future depends on a well-educated population capable of competing with the world.It is a bright future, but only you require us to take bold steps forward and facilitate, create and collaborate in the change necessary to make it a reality.

Photos by Julie Cheng

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