What's On! Port Coquitlam – November / December, 2020

November / December 2020

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Port Coquitlam YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY MAGAZINE SPONSORED BY YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES WWW.WHATSONPOCO.CA

Women in Rotary Leadership.

Co-Presidents Gaye Simms, Karly Simms, New President-Elect Carrie Belanger

Communities Need WHAT’S ON! Now More Than Ever IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU? What’s On! is all about supporting local communities and local businesses with community information and reasonable advertising rates so EVERY business can afford to promote themselves, whether big or small. In these times What’s On! is needed more than ever, playing an important role to businesses and proudly supporting local families. You can be part of it!

A What’s On! Magazine License gives you total independence to run your own magazine business. With FANTASTIC earning potential, to give you financial freedom, and time for your family, as well as a fun lifestyle! Set your own hours, working from home and be your own boss.

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Here’s Owner/Publisher Ellen’s experience of What’s On!...

“What’s On! Mission has allowed me to raise my family while doing a job that I love. The flexibility of this business has allowed me to fit in time for family and work, while keeping me engaged in my community.

What’s On! has built a structure that makes it easy to learn how to run a business and still allows me to be creative. Nothing brings me greater joy than walking into a coffee shop and seeing people reading my magazine“

GET IN TOUCH TODAY AND GET STARTED TOMORROW! Email: whatsonbc@live.ca www.whatsonbc.ca

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New West • Surrey East & West White Rock / South Surrey • Delta Coquitlam • North Van • West Van Ridge Meadows - established magazine!

Burnaby • Richmond • Langley Abbotsford • Port Coqutilam Chilliwack • Mission

WHAT’S ON!

Leah Barker, Business and Friendship.

Port Coquitlam Thanks to our readers for continuing to support our vision of connecting the community with resources, non profits and businesses.

What’s On Port Coquitlam Team Publisher-

Andersen Barker & Co

Owners

Angela Andersen Email: angela@whatsonpoco.ca Leah Barker Email: leah@whatsonpoco.ca

Advertising Contact

Ron Goyette Email: ron.goyette50@gmail.com

Content Manager

Angela Andersen

Contributing Writer Jennifer Pownall

Email: write@jenniferpownallauthor.com Editors

Leah Barker Jennifer Pownall

Distribution/Photos Jim Andersen

Email: info@whatsonpoco.ca www.facebook.com/whatsonpoco www.twitter.com/whatsonpoco whats_on_poco

It is actually through Angela Andersen that I came to be co-owner of What’s On! Port Coquitlam. Angela had always been someone I admired and looked up to, and even since investing in the magazine I feel like I have learned so much from her, not only in business, but also on a personal level.

Her positive “can do” attitude, willingness to always help others, and example of how to manifest good in the future are some of her most incredible attributes. And they are ones I hope I emulate well through my involvement with the magazine.

I began considering investing in What’s On when Angela learned about the opportunity and shared it with me. The two of us got very excited as we were both members of Rotary, and we felt it would be an excellent platform to further do good by enabling us to showcase not-for-profits and to increase awareness for various needs in the community. We made the decision to invest in the magazine together, and doing so has made me even more grateful to be able to call Angela my friend and mentor.

And it has also made me grateful for the chance to fulfill our vision of the business. What’s On! Port Coquitlam was created to be a platform to increase awareness of events, not-for-profits and local businesses. Above all, this magazine is a tool to share everything local... and in my case, that especially means friendship.

We welcome your article submissions. To make this a great community resource we encourage all to submit articles and non profit profiles relating to our community. Please note that all submissions will be edited and formatted. For information on the specific requirements please email Angela or Leah.

Where Can I Get My Copy?

Visit www.whatsonpoco.ca/locations for a complete list of our pick up locations. If you would like to see What’s On! Port Coquitlam in your business, please contact us at angela@whatsonpoco.ca To view this issue online, please visit www.whatsonpoco.ca.

What’s On! Port Coquitlam is published under licence from Blueberry Publications by Andersen Barker and Company.

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide the most up-to-date information on events and activities in Port Coquitlam, etc, all details of the events and activities are subject to change. We recommend that you contact the organizer directly to confirm details and avoid potential disappointment. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content are published in good faith. Any opinions or claims expressed or made in any article or advert is the opinion/claim of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of What’s On! Magazine. All rights reserved and nothing can, partially or in whole, be reprinted or reproduced without a written consent. What’s On! magazines are individually owned, operated and published under license from Blueberry Publications.

What’s On! • www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca

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WHAT’S ON!

Take a photo of yourself holding an issue of What’s On! Magazine and get in print and on-line!

Email your photos to What’s On! angela@whatsonpoco.ca For What’s On! In Port Coquitlam visit www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca 4

To advertise e-mail info@whatsonpoco.ca

WHAT’S ON!

Art Focus Artists’ Association Happenings Art Focus Artists’ Association has been keeping busy, despite Covid-19, with Zoom meetings and weekly plein air painting sessions. “Plein air” is a French term which means “out of doors”, and it has been the perfect adaptation for the program in light of new social distancing measures.

As of the end of September, artists, and all those honing their skills in the visual arts, have been enjoying online video demonstrations. A presentation from award-winning oil painter Mark Pytlos took place on September 23rd and was offered for viewing for the following month. Pastel artist and animal portraitist Kirk Deutschmann shared his craft online on October 28th in a video which will be available for the following four weeks. The next art instructor, Lalita Hamill, presents her demonstration video on November 25th, and it will also be available online for one month.

To enjoy these great videos, and to see what else our club is doing, go to our website: artfocusartistsassociation.com What do we have in the works? Art Focus is in the process of planning an exciting, four-episode, virtual art show featuring iconic Port Coquitlam places and artwork. When ready, this virtual show will also be presented through our website.

Interested in learning more? We would love for you to follow us on Facebook: www.facebook. com/pocoartfocus

What’s On! • www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca

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WHAT’S ON!

A GOOD READ Salvage the Bones It was a storm that made headlines around the world. In August 2005 Katrina hit the Louisiana coast causing great loss of life and destruction to New Orleans and the surrounding area. This awardwinning novel, set over a period of 12 days, tells the story of the Batiste family who live in the fictional town of Bois Sauvage.

Esch is 15 years old and lives with her three brothers and their father. Isolated from the rest of the small town due to the location of their house, they live in extreme poverty, with a largely absent father who, seven years after the death of his wife, still relies on drink to get through the day. So, with the news that a category 5 storm is about to hit they begin to prepare what they can and

by Jesmyn Ward

stockpile a small amount of food.

Each chapter is one day in the build up to the storm. Randall, the eldest, is trying to do what he can to hold his family together. Skeetah is preoccupied with his pit-bull fighting dog, China, who has just given birth to puppies. Junior, the youngest, is trying to hold his own against his older brothers. And Esch has just discovered that she is pregnant.

A captivating story with engaging characters, immerses you in their world, illustrated by a touch of Greek mythology thanks to a book that Esch (the narrator) is reading for school. The penultimate chapter will have your heart racing but ultimately this is the story of family love that survives despite the poverty and deprivation.

Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls

by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo Not a traditional novel here but definitely worth a read. This incredibly popular book (which has sparked a second volume) presents the stories of 100 amazing women who have made contributions to society. It is aimed at telling girls that they can achieve anything they put their mind to and that their gender should not hold them back.

It challenges female stereotypes and inspires girls to aim high in their career choices.

Each story is told on a single page, along with an illustration of the woman and this simple format gives a fantastic introduction to their lives. From mathematicians like Ada Lovelace (who actually built a machine and wrote the first computer programme back in the 19th century) to authors like

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the Bronte Sisters who defied the expectations of their patriarchal society. There are also tales of astronomers, activists, lawyers, chefs, naturalists, journalists, motocross racers, and even a tattoo artist.

Following the huge success of this book a version aimed at boys has also been written: Stories for Boys Who Dare to be Different which challenges male stereotypes which say that you have to be tough in order to succeed.

By Willow Coby

To advertise e-mail info@whatsonpoco.ca

WHAT’S ON!

TRI-CITIES CHAMBER

BUSINESS GUIDES & RESOURCES Your go-to source of information for business support, COVID-19 updates, government funding and program changes.

Business Support Access to Capital Rent Support Taxation Relief Wage and Income Support Provincial Support Federal Support Canadian Business Resilience Network

General Information COVID-19 Updates Mental Wellness Support Support Local Business

Individual Support Rent Support Income Support

Visit tricitieschamber.com for a full list of guides and resources to help small business owners and community members survive and thrive through the COVID-19 pandemic.

TRICITIESCHAMBER.COM What’s On! • www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca

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WHAT’S ON!

e filled ’v u o y e c n O clues in all the e tree, around th olour why not c e too! in the tre

Fiendish Festive Riddle What can be found once in the tree, twice in the crackers but never in the pudding?

The letter R

KIDS PAGE:

Christmas Puzzles Rudolph’s

ou Did y ? know

LION 2.7 MIL re a Turkeys year each cooked mas in t at Chris a!

Canad

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8

LANGLEY

To advertise e-mail info@whatsonpoco.ca

WHAT’S ON!

The City of Port Coquitlam produces Update pages to inform the community about City news, services and opportunities to get involved. Watch this page in future issues of What's On Magazine.

We’re Here to Serve You

Welcome Back!

Online services • • •

We’re happy to welcome you back to our community centres which have safely reopened!

We are offering pre-registered programs at each of our facilities.

•

•

Hyde Creek Community Centre • • • •

Weight Room Fitness Classes Swimming Playschool and After School Care Programs • Gymnasium Sports

P rtCoquitlam

Council Meetings and Public Hearings

Port Coquitlam Community Centre • Ice Skating • Weight Room • Fitness Classes

e Services

Business and development online one-stop-shop at portcoquitlam.ca/bizhub Report a problem with a City service: 604-927-5311 or online at portcoquitlam.ca/report Bylaw complaints: 604-927-5440 or bylawservices@portcoquitlam.ca

In person Council meetings and public hearings are being held at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre with limited capacity.

Council and Committee meeting recordings will continue to be posted at portcoquitlam.ca/council within 48 hours.

PROTECT YOUR HOME & BEARS LOCK IT UP Secure your waste and all bear attractants.

Advance registration and payment are required for all activities. portcoquitlam.ca/register

SET IT OUT Set out carts at curb 5:30-7:30 am and secure by 7 pm. portcoquitlam.ca/bears

Help keep our sidewalks safe Did you know that City bylaws require all residents and businesses to clear the public sidewalks along their property as soon as possible after a snowfall? This is important to ensure all pedestrians can get to their destination safely. portcoquitlam.ca/snow

portcoquitlam.ca portcoquitlam.ca What’s On! • www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca

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WHAT’S ON!

Take a photo of yourself holding an issue of What’s On! Magazine and get in print and on-line!

Email your photos to What’s On! angela@whatsonpoco.ca For What’s On! In Port Coquitlam visit www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca 10

To advertise e-mail info@whatsonpoco.ca

WHAT’S ON!

COVID POLICIES AND PROCEDURES IN PLACE

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Boxing / Kickboxing Circuit for WOMEN

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Show me all the parts of you that you do not love, so I know where to begin..

CONTACT ME lea@leamorrison.com • www.leamorrison.com

What’s On! • www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca

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PUZZLES PAGE

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD ACROSS

17 Gentle bell-like sound (6)

1

Outskirts of a city (7)

18 Castle tower (6)

5

Follow orders (4)

20 Ceremony, celebration (5)

10 In good physical shape (3)

23 Skittish, highly-strung (9)

11 Rotor blades that power a plane (9)

24 Admiration (3)

12 Ogle (3,2) 13 Clothes-maker (6)

25 Celtic stringed instrument (4) 26 Spotty infectious disease (7)

15 Rounded paving stone (6)

DOWN 2

Disentangle, release (5)

3 Abhorrence, disapprobation (12) 4 Increase, improve (5) 6 Sandra _______, Speed actress (7) 7 Woollen thread (4)

WORDSEARCH Arthur Christmas Babes in Toyland Bad Santa Deck the Halls Die Hard Elf Four Christmases Gremlins Holiday Affair Holiday Inn Home Alone It’s a Wonderful Life Jingle All the Way

Joyeux Noel Love Actually Meet Me in St Louis Mixed Nuts Nativity Rudolph Scrooged The Bishop’s Wife The Family Stone The Holiday The Polar Express The Santa Clause The Snowman Trading Places White Christmas

TM

LANGLEY

See solutions on page 27

8 9 14 16 19 21 22

Crime, infraction (7) Unhesitating, resolve (12) Small falcon (7) Nightclub doorman (7) Chart, diagram (5) Delete, abolish (5) Netting, tracery (4)

RECIPE

- SERVES 4

PORTOBELLO WELLINGTON WITH RED WINE SAUCE INGREDIENTS FOR THE WELLINGTON 2 cups baby spinach 1 3/4 cups shiitake mushrooms 1 cup white button mushrooms 3 shallots, peeled and roughly chopped 3 cloves garlic, peeled and roughly chopped 2 sprigs fresh tarragon, stemmed 2 teaspoon vegan butter (Becel vegan butter is good!)

1/4 cup vegetable stock Black pepper to taste 4 portobello mushrooms 1 sheet vegan puff pastry

INGREDIENTS FOR THE SAUCE 1/2 cup red wine 1 3/4 cups low-sodium veg stock 2 tablespoon date syrup

Recipe supplied by

METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F / 200°C or Gas Mark 6.

2. Add spinach, shiitake, button mushrooms, shallots, garlic, and tarragon to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.

3. Add the vegan butter to a large sauté pan and set over medium heat. Add the mushroom mixture and vegetable stock and sauté for 10 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated. Season with a pinch of black pepper and set aside to cool.

4. Gently scrape the gills from inside the portobello mushrooms with a spoon.

Place the mushrooms on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or use a non-stick baking tray. Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes, then set aside.

5. Cut the pastry sheet into four equal parts. Using a spoon, cover each mushroom with a layer of the mushroom / spinach mix, making sure to fill the cavity of the mushroom.

6. Place one mushroom in the centre of each pastry sheet, cavity side up. Fold the pastry around the mushrooms and press down lightly with fingers to make sure it is sealed completely. Place the mushrooms, with folded side down, on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. And cook for in the oven until the pastry is golden brown - about 20-25 minutes.

7. Make the red wine sauce by combining the red wine and vegetable stock in small saucepan. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. Stir in the date syrup and set aside. Reheat on low right before serving and drizzle over the wellingtons.

8. Serve with roasted potatoes and glazed baby carrots.

WHAT’S ON!

GARDEN VIEW

This month – Plants for Christmas With Christmas just around the corner I’m often asked what houseplants plants I recommend as gifts. Here are my top five.

Hippeastrum / Amaryllis - is a remarkable bulb, which produces 60cm / 2ft tall, fleshy drainpipe stems and flamboyant trumpet flowers up to 20cm /8in across.

‘Red Lion’ with deep scarlet flowers; ‘Apple Blossom’ with pink-tinged white flowers, and ‘Christmas Gift’ with plain white flowers, are readily available. You can buy them as DIY plant-it-yourself kits, or as ready-planted gifts.

Citrus bushes make interesting presents.

Sold at this time of year with both flowers and developing fruit, they are deliciously scented. Lemon varieties ‘Meyer’ and ‘Four Seasons ‘are lovely but also consider calamondin oranges. The plant should be kept in a light, frost-free spot over the winter with a minimum night temperature of 5C, then in the summer the pot can be moved outside.

Cyclamen persicum is wonderfully decorative. The flowers range from white, through pink, to red. This is probably a gift for a more experienced gardener as persuading it to flower again can be a challenge, but it can be

By Rachael Leverton

done. Keep it in full light in winter, at a steady 13C-16C. Give it a liquid feed fortnightly while it is in flower. Water less as the stems start to bend and collapse, then keep it completely dry for three months during its dormant period.

Gently introduce water again as new leaves appear.

Schlumbergera x buckleyi, the Christmas cactus is a perennial favourite. It has protruding stamens at the end of succulent, flattened leaves, and pretty flowers. It likes high humidity while flowering so mist it regularly it with a fine spray of clean water, and feed it monthly with a high-potash feed. When it’s finished flowering put the plant in a light spot and keep the compost just moist.

Hyacinthus orientalis ‘Ostara’ is a stunning hyacinth with deep-blue flowers, powerfully scented and particularly nice when planted as a trio in a bowl or basket. Christmas hyacinths are ‘forced’ to flower earlier than they would naturally. They need a cool spot, preferably no more than 13C, so that they do not flop. No-one wants a floppy hyacinth! The bulbs can be planted in the garden afterwards so will continue to provide pleasure in future years.

Viburnum x bodnantense ‘Dawn’ is not a houseplant but it makes a fabulous gift. It flowers from November, while the leaves are still on, through the winter.

The pink flowers are scented and a few sprigs in a small vase at this time of year are just joyous. Even better it is totally hardy so is great for the nongreen-fingered, and can be planted out of a pot at any time, if the ground isn’t frozen.

Don’t wrap plants, just tie a big bow around the pot. It’s a thoughtful touch to provide printed or hand-written instructions for aftercare. Make sure any living plant is well watered before you hand it over. They will probably be a bit neglected over the festive period, but a good watering should make sure that they last past New Year.

Happy festive gardening!

WHAT’S ON!

What’s On! • www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca

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WHAT’S ON!

Women in Local Rotary Leadership

By Ron Goyette, Past Poco Rotary President The Rotary Club of Port Coquitlam Centennial has had women in club leadership roles for many years and continues with the current year (2020/21) Co-Presidents Gaye Simms and Karly Simms. This mother-daughter team follow a year for each of them as club presidents overseeing the many projects of the club during that time and each making their own mark during their tenures.

my ultimate dream has never waivered”.

So, I asked Gaye how she came to become a Rotarian. 16 years ago, she was running a successful notary business, felt both blessed and a need to give back to the community. She searched for volunteer groups that might suit her and got introduced to Rotary. Once she learned how Rotary contributes to local communities and globally, she felt it was the right match for her and joined. During her time in the club she has filled several roles and participated in major projects related to seniors’ initiatives, youth programs and other club projects including Starfish Pack Program which is particularly dear to her heart. She says, “I feel wonderful being able to contribute in such a meaningful way. It is so fulfilling.”

As a professional in the non-profit world for many years, Carrie has had the opportunity to learn and help support the needs of many communities.

As a Port Coquitlam resident, however, she often felt disconnected from her own neighbours and removed from the sense of community she worked to build in others. A chance encounter with Karly Simms, showed her how well the values of Rotary complemented her own. With their commitment to supporting the Port Coquitlam community in a very hands-on way, to be creative in service development, and their flexibility to her work schedule, she knew she had found her home.

Karly’s journey into Rotary is a little different.

As a daughter of a seasoned Rotarian, she was introduced to Rotary far earlier than many. At 19, she participated in a program called Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) that would change her life exponentially. Through meeting with so many like-minded and interesting young people over that weekend, she came back to ‘the real world’ with a drive to continue volunteering and providing services to those in her community.

“I became a Rotarian because I could, because I had the ability and the passion to give back to my community. Through the nine years I have been involved, that purpose has grown and adapted but 1 16

Empowering women in leadership roles recognizes the many contributions and changes these women are impacting is very important to us. Poco Rotary is pleased to announce its current President-Elect who will take on the important President’s role in 2021/22, Carrie Belanger.

“Our shared passion for food security, reducing waste, and empowerment for both self and others, comradery within and with others outside the group quickly developed.

I am so ever thankful for being welcomed openarms into the Rotary family, for being able to share my passions for a healthier community, and for being asked to lead the team as President into 2021/22” To advertise e-mail info@whatsonpoco.ca

WHAT’S ON!

WHAT’S ON!

ROTARY – MAJOR CLUB PROJECT

INTRODUCING POCO SQUARES

The Rotary Club of Port Coquitlam Centennial is in-volved in many projects within the community including support of seniors’, youth, homelessness, children’s needs and so much more. The leading project for the past four-plus years is undoubtedly the Starfish Pack Program.

The program is dedicated to providing hungry kids and their families a food pack each weekend for the school year. The goal is to ensure these kids are focused on learning and succeeding in school, as well as being on a level playing field with their classmates.

Teachers have reported improvements in participating children’s reading skills, math skills, ability to focus, and partner work. This program changes lives!

Starting in 2017 with 5 students at one school, the club now serves 60 children from nine schools.

The need in Port Coquitlam is at least triple that!

We need funding to help! As food costs continue to rise, we are in need of support more than ever.

Presently it costs over $600 to support one child for one school year.

How can you help? Donate today online at http://bit.ly/RotaryPayHere and enter any amount you are comfortable with or contact: Gaye Simms at gdsimms@shaw.ca or 604-218-7750 or participate in any of our fund raising efforts discussed here.

Our club is undertaking a production of one of the 60s & 70s best game shows: POCO SQUARES! This “fun” raising and “fund” raising event will raise funds for PoCo Rotary initiatives and raise awareness of these programs in the community.

We are anticipating production for this in early November with the release of our first show on November 21, 2020!

To help us make this a success we are putting a call out for people to help us!

We are looking for panel members and contestants who have a good knowledge of Port Coquitlam, history, current events and of well known Poco personalities. You need an outgoing personality, comfortable to speak publicly, good reputation and have a great sense of humour.

If you fit that bill, or know someone that does, please let us know. Contact Gaye at gdsimms@ shaw.ca or Ron at ron.goyette50@gmail.com If you have ideas on questions about Poco or related subjects, contact Karly at flutterbeekiss@ hotmail.com We have a lot of work to do in a short period of time so contact us right away! Thanks for helping the community!

Are you a business looking to support your community? Contact Gaye at gdsimms@shaw. ca to learn more about sponsorship opportunities with PoCo Squares We want to make this truly a community effort to ultimate benefit the community of Port Coquitlam. Won’t you please help us?

1What’s On! • www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca

To advertise e-mail info@whatsonpoco.ca 17

Why Experience Matters in Real Estate?

You are about to make the Biggest Investment Decision of Your Life.

You wouldn’t go to a mechanic for dental surgery. Likewise, you need a professional to guide you through this maze in the most economical, efficient manner, whether you are buying or selling a property.

Are you buying for the first time, downsizing, relocating, investing, building, getting married or divorced, having more babies, or moving to be closer to school or work?

If you are looking to buy or sell a property, you need an experienced realtor that speaks the same language, explains things to you, and with whom you feel comfortable.

That is what I do! I am a Certified Negotiations Expert, and an award winning realtor with Royal Lepage West Real Estate Services. Royal Lepage is 100% Canadian, and over 100 years old, and has 20,000 Realtors and 700 offices across Canada from Coast to Coast. You want an established real estate company and realtor to handle your real estate transaction.

After all, this is one of the biggest decisions of your life!!

Making the Decision Have you ever been on the fence about an important decision? You could do A or B, but simply can’t decide which is the best way to go? Experts often say you should weigh the pros and cons of each option. The last thing you want to do is Guess.

That’s a big decision!

If you ever find yourself in that situation, please give me a call. I can provide you with information you need to help weigh the pros and cons. If you require market statistics for your area, please call me. Together, I will guide you through the legal maze, and help you reach your Dream Home.

WHAT IS YOUR NEXT MOVE? Janice Christie, Realtor, CNE

c. 604-842-0259 0. 604-942-7300 Royal Lepage West Real Estate Services 2264 Elgin Ave, Port Coquitlam, BC

WHAT’S ON!

Not even a pandemic can slow buyers. More of us are working from home, staying in, homeschooling and all need a space to co-habitat together.

Canadians want more space. A place to recharge, work, and educate their children. BC, in particular, is being showcased for all the beautiful locations with waterfront views. Only minutes away we have more affordable real estate outside of the lower mainland with a slower lifestyle pace – a place where you can truly relax.

If you’re looking to enhance your lifestyle there could be some key steps getting in the way of your dream to move up the property ladder or acquire a second home to staycation this summer. Here are some tips to watch out for: 1. Your outside debt.

3. Not being pre-approved.

Many people are unaware that every payment outside of your mortgage takes away your ability to qualify for a mortgage. Most Canadians have car loans, student loans, credit card loans, or lines of credit. Did you know for every $480/month payment outside of your mortgage that’s $100,000.00 taken away in mortgage qualifications?!

Imagine that, $900/per month will take away just over $200,000 in mortgage qualifications! There is a big difference in being approved for 500k or 700k.

Understanding that outside debt is a huge factor and needs to be addressed with either a refinance to consolidate this debt into your existing mortgage or pay down strategy will help you improve your credit score, cash flow, and future qualifications.

This is huge for many reasons. With all the factors and calculations that go into purchasing a home – the down payment, your income, credit, closing costs, and personal profile – shopping without a FULL pre-approval to understand those specific factors will lead to disappointment and can unnecessarily bid up the price of homes.

2. Existing time in your job or work interruptions.

Some of us have had unfortunate interruptions to our work or reductions in income. Depending on your type of employment, different lenders use different averages of incomes or want to see a specific amount of return to work with consistency prior to issuing an approval.

4. Zoning and/or property condition.

The last stage, once a contract is accepted, is the property review by the lender. Anything named, “handyman special”, “as is where is”, “leased land”, “manufactured home”, “cable cord construction”, “co-op”, “commercial-zoned”, “maintenance not being done properly on properties”, or “water and sewer connections/access to the property and year-round access” all contribute to who will lend on it and at what cost. Some people will have to use the equity in their existing home or savings to purchase certain properties or be willing to pay higher rates. Discussing your intentions of purchase during the pre-approval process and subject period will assist you in gaining clarity.

This is one hot market! Being prepared and learning what applies to you will help you move forward with you living your best life. If you’re looking to purchase a vacation home this season reach out to our team at hello@countoncalla.ca. We are here to help you every step of the way!

Angela Calla is a 16-year award-winning woman of influence and mortgage expert. Alongside her team, Angela passionately assists mortgage holders in acquiring the best possible mortgage. She educates and empowers individuals on the “The Mortgage Show” hosted for over a decade, and is the best-selling author of The Mortgage Code available on Amazon. Proceeds from her book sales are donated to the YWCA, helping women build better futures for their families. For media interviews, speaking inquiries, or personal mortgage assistance, please contact Angela at hello@countoncalla.ca or 604-802-3983.

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Take a photo of yourself holding an issue of What’s On! Magazine and get in print and on-line!

Email your photos to What’s On! angela@whatsonpoco.ca For What’s On! In Port Coquitlam visit www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca 20

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Executive Director Sukhvinder Thind, Therapeutic Recreation Therapist Cathy Burnstad, Previous Acting Director of Resident Programs Tara Wallace, Director of Resident Programs Kayla Melo.

Port Coquitlam Royal Purple Lodge #10 continues to make people’s lives better...

Port Coquitlam Royal Purple Lodge #10 is a service club, part of a registered society, the Canadian Royal Purple Society. We have been assisting children, seniors and others in need in the Tri Cities for over seventy years.

Some of the organizations we have supported include BC Family Hearing Resource Centre, TriCity Transition Society, Children of the Street Society, SHARE, high school bursaries, school lunch programs and Eagle Ridge Hospital.

One of our members and a Recreation Therapist at Nicola Lodge, Cathy Burnstad, spoke to the

members about the importance of communications between residents and their families during the Covid-19 pandemic. She advised that one technology being utilized was the use of I-pads and the Facetime application. Cathy illustrated how there were a limited number of I-pads for the 270 residents that call Nicola Lodge home to facilitate these communications.

The Port Coquitlam Royal Purple wanted to support the needs of the residents and therefore purchased an I-pad to donate to Nicola Lodge to facilitate communication and contribute to the well-being of the residents.

If you are recently retired, an empty nester, or just looking for a way to give back to your community, call us at 604-942-9405 or e-mail sahurst@telus.net for more information.

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FIVE SIMPLE WAYS TO STAY FIT AT HOME Successful aging is measured not just by the quantity of our years, but by the quality and vitality of our life. Living well and getting enough exercise delivers great benefits: energy, longevity, independence and illness prevention. Exercise is good for our physical and mental health, particularly as we age.

The World Health Organization recommends adults over the age of 65 take part in 150 minutes of exercise per week. Since the onset of COVID-19 however, it’s been challenging for many to stay active. According to the Manager of Wellness at Astoria Retirement Residence, “with social restrictions still in place, this is an especially important time for older adults to incorporate activity into their daily lives, whether they live at home or in a retirement residence.” While you should check with your medical practitioner before adding to your level of activity and routine, Gurjit Dhaliwal shares five tips for seniors to get active even during a pandemic.

1. Do what you love Find fitness activity that you like so it never becomes a chore. A great place to start is online where you’ll discover a variety of follow-along workouts for seniors. Look for ones that challenge your capabilities without going beyond them. Search YouTube for something new to learn – dancing, tai chi 22 1

or an introduction to weight lifting. Love the outdoors? Take advantage of the fall weather and head outside for some fresh air and a walk.

Walking is incredibly beneficial and lets you move your body while you clear your head.

Just remember to take a mask with you just in case you come in contact with others.

2. Set yourself up for success Whether you live in your own home or a retirement residence, invest in an exercise mat that makes it easy to perform a variety of low-impact exercises or stretches standing up, lying down, or on one’s knees. If your medical practitioner is in agreement, other equipment, such as weights, may also make workouts more challenging and help to build muscle and bone. Proper shoes may also help give you the support you need to perform exercises properly and safely.

3. Keep moving Aim to adopt a movement-based lifestyle that keeps you active throughout the day.

Luckily there are simple ways to move more.

Walk around your home while you talk on the phone. Stand up and move around during TV commercial breaks. Walk instead of drive. And when it comes to planned exercise, remember To To advertise advertise e-mail e-mail info@whatsonpoco.ca info@whatsonpoco.ca

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that a short workout is better than nothing, so go with what works best for your schedule.

“At the end of the day, less intense exercise and more mindfulness activity can help our residents wind down and prepare for a good night’s sleep,” says Gurjit Dhaliwal at Astoria.

4. Fitness building blocks A healthy workout regime often includes balance, flexibility, endurance and strength, but check with your medical practitioner before safely adding in new elements. Each component can deliver different benefits, and may help prevent boredom and reduce the risk of injury. Balance training, such as heel-to-toe walking and posture exercises, can strengthen core muscles and improves coordination.

Flexibility moves such as stretching and yoga can help to improve range of motion.

Endurance exercises such as walking and swimming use large muscle groups and increase our heart rate. Strength training can help keep muscles and bones healthy and strong by using weights or bands.

5. Stay the course “When it comes to exercise, remember that it’s easier to keep going than to get going,” says Gurjit Dhaliwal, Manager of Wellness at Astoria Retirement Residence. “Always follow medical advice and remember to take things slowly and listen to your body.” Don’t worry about where you’re starting from, just begin to move according to your ability, and keep with it so you don’t lose the gains you make.

Deciding to become more active is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Getting started can be challenging, but keep focused on the positive effects fitness has on your health, wellbeing and ability to cope during challenging times. Regardless of the weather (or even a pandemic), we can maintain fitness by being active at home. And don’t forget – enjoy your workout.

Learn more about Astoria Retirement Residence www.siennaliving.ca What’s On! • www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca

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Take a photo of yourself holding an issue of What’s On! Magazine and get in print and on-line!

Email your photos to What’s On! angela@whatsonpoco.ca For What’s On! In Port Coquitlam visit www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca 24

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Are you into genealogy?

Organization

The PoCo Genealogy Group holds monthly meetings presenting a variety of topics to help family historians in their quest to identify their ancestors and find out about the lives they led.

In ordinary times, join us on the first Wednesday of each month, at 6:30 pm. Meetings are usually held at PoCo Heritage Museum & Archives, 2248 McAllister Ave #150, Port Coquitlam, BC There is a drop in charge of only $2.00 per meeting

During the Covid-19 restrictions, the PoCo Genealogy Group is meeting virtually on Zoom on the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 pm.

Please email Chris: cwilli2442@aol.com or an invitation to attend.

No drop in fee for Zoom meetings.

PoCo Genealog y G ro u p Since 2008

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ pocogenealogy

Contact: Chris Longley Phone: 604-942-7918 E-mail: cwilli2442@aol.com

Don’t let pursuit of your genealogy and family history isolate you. Join us for:



Education, tips and techniques, sharing our information and ideas



help on breaking through brick walls

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the latest on Internet resources through our Facebook page



Occasional quizzes, challenges and prizes.

What’s On! • www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca

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FOUR COMMON LEGAL ISSUES FACED BY BUSINESSES TODAY

By: Ron Goyette

As an entrepreneur/small business owner, the danger of crippling litigation should be at the top of your priorities. Legal headaches, especially in Canada can take you by surprise and severely hurt your business’ bottom line. Here are some of the most common legal issues facing small businesses in North America today.

DISGRUNTLED EMPLOYEES

As a business owner, this will be one of your most common legal headaches. In Canada, employees have far more rights than many other countries, in the form of unions and reasons for “wrongful termination”. If you terminate a non-performing employee, make sure he or she signs documents carefully drafted by a lawyer upon termination to make the terms of dismissal crystal clear. Letting an employee go without any final termination forms leaves the door wide open for legal actions.

DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT CASES

The legal ramifications of alleged discrimination - sexual, ethnic, age or otherwise, can cause your company serious problems. Make sure your human resources and legal departments are well equipped to handle these issues should they arise. During the hiring process, make sure you are prepared with all the applicants’ resumes should allegations of discrimination arise, to prove that you hire the most qualified individuals, regardless of gender, ethnicity or age.

Harassment - sexual, racist or otherwise - can be a serious problem in an integrated workplace with workers from various ethnic and religious backgrounds and social classes. Regular meetings and interviews with staff will allow your managers to police these transgressions, which should be eliminated quickly through the swift termination of offenders.

Victims of harassment and discrimination tend 1 26

to attract lots of media attention, which can hurt your company’s public image as well as drain your legal budget. Be proactive and stomp out these problems before they start

COPYRIGHT AND PATENT ISSUES

Cutting edge companies in the tech industry often face aggressive patent litigation. In the product development phase at your company, make sure your research and development teams thoroughly research the patents and copyrights of your current product, to avoid a messy legal battle should you step on a competitor’s toes.

DISSATISFIED CUSTOMERS

Customers who are dissatisfied can file class action lawsuits against your company, in which they gather in large consumer groups and attack your company over faulty products, services or promises. With enough dissatisfied customers, class action lawsuits can do more damage than any individual or corporation and irreparably tarnish your brand’s image.

Again, be proactive and keep a finger to the pulse of your customers through tech support, online message boards and e-mails. Promptly issue recalls for flawed products and be prompt to address customer issues.

OTHER LEGAL ISSUES

These are only some of the most common legal issues facing small businesses today. Other ones include tax litigation (a whole other topic) and legal disputes with competitors and contractors. Make sure you are proactive in solving these problems before they start, and make sure you have a solid legal team to back you up should you get sued.

Good communication in the workplace and a hands-on approach to management is the best deterrent to legal issues.

To advertise e-mail info@whatsonpoco.ca

DOWNLOAD OUR 2020 SALES RECOVERY GUIDE —HOW TO RECOVER YOUR SALES! This thorough, complimentary 8 page guide will provide you a step-by-step document to reviewing and analyzing your business, and providing insights and concepts that you can implement immediately.

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STRUGGLING TO REVIVE YOUR BUSINESS IN TODAY’S COVID ENVIRONMENT? RON GOYETTE 604.512.4398 RON.GOYETTE50@GMAIL.COM

GOOD ADVICE. BETTER DECISIONS. BEST RESULTS.

Request it at: ron.goyette50@gmail.com and put it to work today!

SOLUTIONS

TM

LANGLEY

See puzzles on page 12

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St. Catherine’s Anglican Church Worshipping at Trinity United Church,

2211 Prairie Avenue, Port Coquitlam Open for in-person worship

Are you new to Port Coquitlam? Are you seeking a spiritual home?

St. Catherine of Alexandria Anglican Church may be the place for you.

Services during Covid-19 Wednesday Morning Prayer 10:00 am in the parking lot, weather permitting. Please bring your own chair

We are a community of diverse people who meet regularly to deepen our Spiritual journey and become who we are created to be. All are welcome .

Sunday Eucharist or Morning Prayer 8:30 am in the Sanctuary Also available to read Morning Prayer on our Website: stcatherineschurch.ca Phone: 604-942-9812 (please leave a message as our office is currently closed) Email: office@stcatherineschurch.ca Like us on FaceBook: https://www.facebook. com/ STCPoCo

Our church follows Covid-19 protocols for protection and safety from infection. If you are attending a service or a meeting you will be expected to wear a face mask, use hand sanitizer and social distance.

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1909 - 1963

1963—1999

St. Catherine’s Anglican Church has been part of Port Coquitlam for more than 100 years. There have been many challenges over the years – floating the building across the river to a new home across from City Hall – constructing a new building – having that building declared unsafe – moving to a home shared with Trinity United Church – and now COVID‑19. Through it all St. Catherine’s has continued to provide a welcoming place to worship and service to the broader community.

Activities and Community Service  Christian & Bible study  Book group  Anglican Church Women  St. Catherine’s Community Kitchen (on hiatus due to COVID-19)  Refugee sponsorship

We invite you to join us for in-person worship.

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We would like to thank the Tri-City community for supporting us during these tough times. We look forward to being part of your Christmas celebration and all your events and gatherings in 2021.

HAVE A TOP NOTCH CHRISTMAS DINNER Leave your Christmas dinner to us! We are preparing a traditional home cooked Christmas dinner available for pickup on Dec 24th. Simply just re-heat, serve and enjoy!

Please send us an email at topnotchcaterer@gmail.com with any questions or orders.

Menu A: $25.95 per person • Rosemary roasted turkey (white and dark meat) • Cranberry sage stuffing • Turkey gravy • Steamed seasonal vegetables • Garlic mashed potatoes • Caesar salad • Dinner rolls with butter • Homemade cranberry sauce

Menu B: $25.95 per person • Honey Glazed ham with Dijon mustard • Roasted baby potatoes • Steamed seasonal vegetables • Roasted vegetable medley • Mixed green salad with balsamic dressing • Dinner rolls with butter

Menu C: $28.95 per person • Roast beef with jus, horseradish and mustard • Garlic mashed potatoes • Butternut squash ravioli with pesto cream sauce • Steamed seasonal vegetables • Roasted root vegetable medley • Caesar salad Homemade 10” Apple, Cherry or ½ apple ½ cherry pies $20/each

What’s On! • www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca

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From our Tri Cities Chamber of Commerce Kickstart Event hosted by Kinsight, What’s On and Healing Soul Hypnosis

Email your photos to What’s On! angela@whatsonpoco.ca For What’s On! In Port Coquitlam visit www.whatsonportcoquitlam.ca 30

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EFFECTIVE AND LONG-LASTING RESULTS TREATING OVER 700 PEOPLE WITH Stress | Anxiety | Fears | Phobias Depression | Overweight Arthritis | Chronic Pain Smoking | Addictions Fear of Dentistry | Hypnosis for Birth

SEEING ADULTS AND CHILDREN ONLINE OR IN PERSON

ERIN JOHNSTONE, CLINICAL HYPNOTHERAPIST Call Erin: (604) 837-3746 2850 Shaughnessy St. #2300, Port Coquitlam, BC Book Online: www.healingsoulhypnosis.com

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LOOKING FOR A NEW WAY TO GET TOGETHER? JOIN A LEAGUE TODAY! A fun, safe way to meet up with friends, our leagues are socially distanced and open to all ages.

604 942 5244

pocobowl.com

@ pocobowl

2263 McAllister Avenue Port Coquitlam, BC 32

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