Renfrew-Collingwood Community News December 2015

COMMUNITY NEWS RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com

December 2015

Continued on page 2

Christmas memories from 60 years ago Page 5

Skytrain Rambler: The Seabus—A unique Vancouver experience by John Mendoza

This holiday season, take time to slow down and indulge in the beauty of our surroundings. Let local resident John Mendoza take you on an easy trip to “one of Lower Mainland’s most graceful and fulfilling urban experiences” that you can enjoy with friends and family. The views of the mountains and water are amazing. Merry Christmas from the team at RCC News!

The scene is a familiar one: silver-grey surroundings, the echoes of footsteps on the ramp, the sign counting down to the departure time. However, the voice is new.

It’s a rare fare check. “Please have your tickets ready for inspection,” said the transit employee.

Awakened by this change of routine, I showed my transit fare and proceeded to go through the turnstiles. Even though my commute takes 45 minutes to one hour to get home to East Vancouver, I look forward to this part of my commute—the 15-minute crossing from Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver to downtown Vancouver’s Waterfront Station. It is one of Lower Mainland’s most graceful and fulfilling urban experiences.

With the sharp toot of the Seabus’ horn, the sleek catamaran slowly makes its way out of the station and into the busy waters of Burrard Inlet. Inside the modern cabins of the newest Seabuses, the scene usually starts with an audiovisual reminder of the emergency evacuation procedures, but then gives way to one of the city’s most interesting people-watching scenes.

During the afternoon, the scene is of commuters checking their smart phones, catching a quick nap or talking to coworkers on the journey home. For a more interesting scene, I prefer a night-time commute. While the night-time trips from the North Shore are not as frequent compared to the daylight hours, the scene is compelling. Subdued shift

The view from the Seabus is amazing. Photo by Julie Cheng

Artisans Village Market 2

Lilian Broca mosaic exhibit at Il Museo Page 3

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSDecember 20152

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Skytrain Rambler - Continued from page 1

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workers share the marine vessel with the North Shore’s bright young things dressed for the city’s nightlife, and it feels more spacious.

Outside the windows yields a dramatic urban panorama. To the north, you see the stately Coast Range Mountains green and verdant in summer, snowcapped and frequently shrouded in clouds in winter. There are familiar landmarks: the yellow piles of sulphur; the spinning Q of Lonsdale Quay market, the newish condominium towers sprouting around the Seabus terminal, the stoic, muscular grain elevators well to the east. To the west, you see the green oasis that is Stanley Park and the lattice work of Lions Gate Bridge linking downtown to West Vancouver.

Personally, I like sitting at the south end of the Seabus. I enjoy seeing the glass skyscrapers of downtown Vancouver, the graceful sails of Canada Place and the buzz of the seaplanes landing and taking off from the harbour waters. There is much dignity in this part of the transit commute: civilized conditions and some interesting scenery help make the journey home worthwhile.

There is no doubt that this is a highly idealized view of the transit experience. You are reminded that our transit systems has its shortcomings upon arrival at Waterfront station: the broken escalator, large crowds and the occasional Skytrain breakdowns remind us that our transit infrastructure needs to be taken care of and expanded as the city’s population grows and changes.

However, the Seabus part of our transit system is one of the city’s most spectacular yet relatively inexpensive experiences. It easily rivals that of other cities that use the water for their transit system, such as Hong Kong and New York City. If you haven’t yet experienced a ride on the Seabus, a mere purchase of a transit ticket affords you this most unique experience of life in Vancouver.

From East Vancouver, travel to Waterfront Station on the Expo line, then transfer at Waterfront Station and follow the signs to the Seabus. Your transit fare is good for about 90 minutes.

John Mendoza has been a long-time resident of Renfrew-Collingwood. His interests include travel and books.

3RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS December 2015

Heroine of a Thousand Pieces: The Judith Mosaics of Lilian Broca at Il Museo by Angela Clarke, PhD

Judith Praying in the Desert, 72” x 48” or 183cm x 122cm. Byzantine Smalti, Gold smalti, on Honeycomb panel. Image courtesy of Italian Cultural Centre and Lilian Broca

On November 12, 2015 at Il Museo in the Italian Cultural Centre, the contemporary artist Lilian Broca unveiled her new mosaic series Heroine of a Thousand Pieces: The Judith Mosaics of Lilian Broca.

While the artistic genre of mosaic is an ancient art form, it is ultimately modern, even post-modern. Like a computer screen that relies upon diverse pixels to create an image, the image of the mosaic is based on a combination of small light reflecting coloured fragments. When organized and arranged by a skilled artist, these fragments of glass can not only create a complete picture, they can also recount an entire story. In this mosaic series, Broca has masterfully arranged thousands of coloured glass tesserae to tell the story of Judith, a heroine from the ancient text of the Biblical Apocrypha. Broca’s work brings to the attention of modern audiences the story of an ancient heroine who is as complex as she is contemporary. Traditionally, Judith has been represented by Renaissance artists such as Caravaggio, Botticelli, Orazio Gentileschi and his equally famous daughter, Artemisia Gentileschi Judith, as a seductive and violent woman who is a threat to the social order.

However, in pursuit of this depiction important elements in the Judith tale have been overlooked and Judith has been much

misunderstood. For this reason Lilian Broca has revisited the Judith story in its entirety. From her more detailed examination, Judith is not simply a problematic woman, a virago, but a courageous and devout leader who single-handedly saves her community.

By depicting this heroine and her complete story, constructed from thousands of pieces of Venetian glass, Broca reveals a figure wholly modern in character. As such, Judith remains an archetypal figure who continues to fascinate and inspire. It is Broca’s new vision of Judith that makes her not only a heroine of the past, but also for the 21st century.

Angela Clarke, PhD, is the curator of Il Museo at the Italian Cultural Centre. The exhibition Heroine of a Thousand Pieces: The Judith Mosaics of Lilian Broca runs until March 31, 2016. Museum hours are 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday.

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Hasco, former owner of Roman Ristorante on Kingsway, invites all his old friends to visit him in Kitsilano

Make Trocadero your holiday party destination!

For reservations call 604-253-8714

Join us for Christmas Eve dinner with your choice of turkey or prime rib. Includes all the fixings, dessert and

complimentary drink for only $30.

Bring your family and friends for a relaxing, enjoyable evening.

Dinner served from 5:00-9:00PM.

We are open for lunch wed-thur-fri from 11am. Open for dinner every day from 4pm.

Celebrating 46 years

4

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 coordinatorLisa Symons: sales and distribution coordinatorJulie Cheng: editorial coordinator

Contributors: Cari Chan, Angela Clarke, Julien Duan, Robert F. Edwards, Norman Hill, Loretta Houben, Taya Lawton, Suzanne Liddle, John Mendoza, RCMAN 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 submis-sion guarantee publication. We reserve the right to make editorial changes.

Contact the RCCNews

Phone: 604-435-0323 extension 261Fax: 604-451-1191

Editorial: [email protected]: Phone Lisa Symons at 604.435.0323 email: [email protected]

Renfrew/Collingwood Community NewsCollingwood Neighbourhood House5288 Joyce StreetVancouver, BC V5R 6C9

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

COMMUNITY NEWS

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Libraries, Collingwood Neighbourhood House, Renfrew Park Community Centre, The Italian Cultural Centre, Collingwood Policing Office, other organizations, religious institutions, schools, laundromats, Starbucks, Rona, Superstore, Canadian Tire, Walmart, London Drugs and Safeway coffee shops, restaurants, markets, corner stores, other businesses, and coffee tables all over Renfrew-Collingwood.

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Poor Santa and Other Christmas Poems by Julien Duan

FROGS ON THE TRAIN TRACK

Frogs on the train trackSanta on the treeRudolph eats a bikeFish stirs up andSnowflakes fall down!

Julien Duan is a six-year-old boy from Cameron Elementary School. After having a hearty hot chocolate with mom in Tim Horton’s, Julien felt inspired and created the poems on the way home. He likes to make fun of Santa, but also wants to stay on Santa’s list to get Christmas presents.

POOR SANTA

Crickets in the hamburgerSanta is mixed up with soup!Santa will be eatenIn New Year’s Eve!Nobody knows Santa will be eatenSanta will be made with chocolate again.

FROGS EAT SANTA

Frog is digging, looking for Santa to eatBut Santa was not there. So it went to Santa’s houseand found him there.And it mixed up Santa in a chocolate soup, And it mushed his head to make a chocolate pie!Poor Santa! Bye and bye!

5RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSRENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS December 2015

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Christmas memories from 60 years ago by Loretta Houben

In 1955 a young couple starting out in life together needed to have a place to live, a job and transportation. My parents began their married life in a one-bedroom apartment at 131 West 12th Avenue in Vancouver, in a three storey house that is still standing.

They had the front apartment on the second floor and shared a bathroom with three people. The rent was $45 per month.

My mom, Susie, grew up on a farm in Oregon so her move to the big city of 80,000 people in the Lower Mainland was a shock to the system, especially living on such a busy thoroughfare! She commuted by bus to her job at Scotia Bank at the corner of Commercial and Broadway. My dad, Jack, drove the car to his job at the Douglass Paint Company on Granville Street.

That first Christmas was a cold one with snow. Jack and Susie visited the Woodward’s department store on Hastings Street, admiring the beautiful Christmas display windows. They shopped at Woolworth’s across from Millar and Coe, also on Hastings, for their decorations, including the new bubble lights.

They bought a small Christmas tree for $1.25 from a tree lot on Commercial Street and set it up in their bedroom, as they had no living room. They bought modest small gifts for each other, and spent Christmas at Susie’s parent’s home in Oregon, driving down the one-lane highway to the USA. They rarely ate out, and didn’t go on a cruise until their 40th anniversary in 1995. They never flew to Europe or Disneyland.

Between them, Jack and Susie earned enough to pay for food and rent. They also saved up for their first home, which they managed to buy in 1956—two lots at 4683 Union Street in Burnaby for the vast sum of $6,350. In 1959 they upgraded, for $9,000, to a two-bedroom house at Tyne and Euclid in Vancouver, where they lived until 1963. With their growing family of daughters, they purchased a brand-new home for $14,500 at 3382 Monmouth Avenue, where they lived for 35 years.

What do you think? Would today’s young couples be able to purchase a single detached home with a yard after saving for one year like young

people 60 years ago? Do you think times have improved since 1955?

Any way you look at it, I think my parents did a fantastic job of “pinching pennies” and making their married life work in the growing metropolis of Vancouver. In September 2015 they celebrated their 60th anniversary. Loretta Houben has lived for many years in Collingwood. She coordinates the RCC News’ Seniors Connection page.

Jack and Susie Williams with their first Christmas tree 60 years ago. They couldn’t take selfies back then! Photos courtesy of Loretta Houben

Family Coin Laundry 2088 Kingsway Phone: 604.876.4817

6 RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Collingwood Insurance 5750 Tyne Street Ph: 604.438.9888

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7RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSRENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

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December 2015

The art of community engagement Bringing talents to the Artisans’ Market – Saturday, December 5 The Renfrew-Collingwood Multicultural Artists’ Network (RCMAN) presents the seventh annual Collingwood Village Artisans’ Market on Saturday, December 5, 2015 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. The market is admission-free and features more than 25 local artisans, musicians and performers as well as surprise raffle prizes.

Community engagement through art has always been a core part of Collingwood Neighbourhood House’s practices. The neighbourhood house believes that community engagement through artistic, educational, social and physical activities is fundamental in the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

This community event brings together local artisans with various intercultural backgrounds, traditions and talents to share their experiences with our neighbours. Market items include woodwork, traditional textile, pottery, knitting, baking, painting and holiday decorations. The market’s famous Santa Claus will also be on site to entertain, share stories and be available for photos. Local choirs, dancers and musicians will showcase their talents on stage. Talented Mayan weaver Petrona Garcia will also demonstrate her craft-making skills.

What an incredible experience it has been to see our neighbours and artisans coming together for the creation of the Artisans Village Market over the years! The beautiful handmade crafts, tasty foods and lively music will create many smile-filled memories for everyone who visits.

Instead of keeping their artwork hidden from sight in their studios and homes, community members bring their talents to Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) to share with other people, enjoy commonalities and value differences. Programs and events such as the artisan market capture and, perhaps, give structure to the evolving need for social connection. This is particularly important for immigrants and newcomers who seek to find a community to feel welcomed, recognized and inspired.

For example, Cindy discovered Social Culture Club at CNH nine months ago and attended the gatherings on Saturday mornings. She started to explore diverse activities to maintain her quality of life, formed friendships, encouraged others and enjoyed sharing her skills. Cindy took leadership roles and volunteered in programs at CNH to enhance her talents. She says that, with these programs she feels acknowledged as an active community member and she is able to enjoy different traditions and practice speaking English. She is excited to contribute her sewing skills to raise funds for the program at the Artisan Village Market. “Being part of the Collingwood Neighbourhood Community has benefited my life in many different ways,” she says.Mark your calendar, folks! You will have a chance to win raffle prizes! This is a great way to get your holiday presents, support local economy, and socialize. Come enjoy and explore the artisans’ craft-making, all the performances and delicious food—see you there! If you have questions, please email Eda at [email protected].

4

Thank You Contributors, Advertisers and DistributorsMany thanks to the writers, photographers, translators, advertisers and distributors who have made our little monthly newspaper so successful this past year.

We are grateful to the many contributors who have shared their stories and added to richness of our neighbourhood. We couldn’t have shared these stories without the advertisers, whose dollars support our efforts to bring our community together. The distributors, too, play a valuable part in spreading the word.

Warm wishes for a successful new year. — The RCC News team

ContributorsAkberet Beyene Alexander ZhongAlexis SetoAndrew KouriAngela ClarkeAnnie LaiAurelia SchmorBetty HuangBev FergusonBill McMichaelBrenda ZeimerBryden FergussonCari ChanCarmen RosenCasey HiltonChristina TauluCollingwood Education ProgramCrecien BencioDan ParisDanny QuonDeanna ChengDiego GomezDon DaviesDon McLellanEmily ChanFriend2FriendGlobal VisionGreen Thumb TheatreHarry WarkentinHeather BrownHeather McCainHenry LauHolly FredericksonIan DongJason HsiehJohn MendozaJulian WuJulien DuanKaitlyn FungKaslo Park Community Assoc.Kat CuretonKathy Romses

Kelly ZhangLiz KendlerLoretta HoubenMark EvansMetro Media SocietyMike WaddenMike WuMohini TakharNancy ReynoldsNick SuNorman HillOn Main GalleryPeter GreenwellR. & J. LambertRania HatzioannouRaymond ChouRCMANRenfrew Park Community CentreRicardo CernaRob AllenRobert AllenRobert F. EdwardsRobert WongRosanne LambertSamantha ChowSarah GreenSiling ZhangSTRIVE CentreStrive Living SocietySunny LiSusan WongSuzanne LiddleTaya LawtonTiffany GongTommy HuangVancouver NE WorkBCVincent HadjioannouVive WongViven ChiuVIVO Media ArtsWilliam PlueWindermere Secondary

Advertisers2400 Motel1st Ave Dental GroupFirst Avenue LiqourAbantu Beauty ProductsAdrian Dix Alexander Income TaxAshton CollegeBanana GroveBernie’s Bureks & RestaurantBetter At HomeBino’s RestaurantBroadway ChurchDias Notaries PublicCecilia StewartCity of VancouverCollingwood Baptist ChurchCollingwood BIAColllingwood DaysCollingwood Neighbourhood HouseCollingwood InsuranceCollingwood Law OfficeDon Davies Family Coin LaundryFamous FoodsFreshiiFresh Slice PizzaGreen Thumb TheatreHarvey’s Furniture HM Tax & Accounting Italian Garden Ristorante & PizzeriaIl Museo- Italian Cultural CentreJE’s Dry CleanersJojo QuimpoJoyce Hair DesignLa Piazza Dario Ristorante ItalianoLittle Caesars PizzaLotus Seed RestaurantKnight & Day RestaurantMagic Beauty SalonMOSAIC - WorkBCOxygen Yoga & FitnessPanago Pizza

Papa Johns PizzaPrice Smart FoodsRCMANRenfrew Park Community CentreRobert Allen See Rite OpticalSelmak Realty Ltd.Sprott-Shaw Community CollegeStill Moon FestivalSteven KouSt. Mary’s SchoolSt. Joseph’s SchoolStrive Living SocietySunlife FinancialSushi Miga RestaurantTipper RestaurantTravelholicTrocadero Pizza & SteakhouseVancouver Aboriginal Family & Child ServiceVancouver AikidoVIVO Media Arts Centre

Distributors Collingwood Neighbourhood HouseRenfrew Park Community CentreRona HardwareSave On FoodsCanadian SuperstoreLondon DrugsSafewayCanadian TireShoppers Drug Mart

And all of the local schools, community centres, places of worship and businesses

Thank You!

8 RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSDecember 2015

Neighboursby Robert F. Edwards

Recently I had the good fortune to take a cruise with my wife from Vancouver to Hawaii and then to return to Vancouver. During these two weeks, I met some remarkable people. The number of passengers was just shy of 3,000 and, to my surprise and delight, the majority were Canadians. Better still, when we had the opportunity of sitting with others during lunch and afternoon tea, a large portion were from the Greater Vancouver area.

Many of these people at one time or another had lived in Collingwood or in the surrounding area. Most of them were retired or had been retired for a good many years. But what consistently stood out were their manners and the politeness in the conversation during the “getting to know you.” They had many good stories to tell me and my wife about growing up in the Collingwood area. And, of course; we were able to give them an update on the changing landscape and the diversity that now is Collingwood.

Over the days as we met each other on one deck or another area of the ship, we would spend a little time conversing on how things were going. It was most enjoyable to have time to talk to neighbours and hear about the times they had in the neighbourhood we live in.

Upon returning home, we got ready for Halloween. This time, we got to meet a lot of new Canadians—and when I say new Canadians—I mean it from the heart. Little ones showed up in some of the best costumes I’ve seen in years. Their ages started around age three and went right up to 11. All of the younger ones were accompanied by their parents. Bar none, each parent was so proud of their child and how well they were behaving. It brought back some very wonderful memories of when my sister and I went out on Halloween and people would say, “We know who you are because you’re very polite.” All these children were polite. They and their parents had a diverse background. Some were from Asia, others from the Philippines, still more were from India and the rest were originally from European countries.

I’m so very grateful to live in Collingwood. We’re not a melting pot of humanity; far from that, we are a tapestry of culture. I can’t think of any other place I’d rather live in than Canada and in the greater Vancouver area, especially Collingwood. The cultural diversity that we share is second to none. Just in the culinary area alone, we have some of the most varied opportunities to experience the cuisine.

But what makes Collingwood such a great neighbourhood is the people that share their addresses with each other. I truly love being in Collingwood’s cultural base.

So, I say to one and all of us, the next time you’re waiting for the Skytrain or a bus; maybe we could say “Good morning” or “Afternoon.” There’s always a good chance to get to know your neighbour when you’re standing in line at the bank or the grocery store, or somewhere else when you are waiting to be served. So let’s each and every one of us get to know our neighbours.

Robert F. Edwards is a long-time resident of Collingwood and contributor to the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News.

LILIAN BROCAHeroine of aThousand Pieces:The Judith Mosaics of Lilian Broca

November 12, 2015 – March 31, 2016

Il Museo at The Italian Cultural Centre3075 Slocan Street,Vancouver BC V5M 3E4

italianculturalcentre.ca

Judith Seducing Holofernes, detail.Diptych, 73 x 96" (185.5 x 244cm)

Il Museo Ad for Preview Magazine-3

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS 9RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS December 2015

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Read On! A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners

Read On! has a web page. You can:

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

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Who Is Santa Claus?

Every year during this time you see him everywhere. He has a red hat and suit and a big white beard. Families wait in lines for hours to take a picture with him. Children write letters to him, hoping he will bring them a gift for Christmas.

But who is Santa Claus? Where did he come from? What does he have to do with Christmas?

Did you know that Santa was a real person? His name was Nicholas and he was born around 280 AD in what is now the country of Turkey. He was later called Saint Nicholas because he was a very good and holy man. Saint Nicholas is remembered for giving gifts and money to the poor.

The day to celebrate Saint Nicholas is December 6 (the day he died). In some countries people still celebrate this day by giving gifts to each other. Others now only give gifts on Christmas Day, December 25. France, Germany, England, Italy, the Netherlands and many other countries in Europe celebrate Saint Nicholas, and Christmas, differently.

He is known by many names: Father Christmas. Kris Kringle, Saint Nick, Santa. The English name “Santa Claus” actually comes from the Dutch name for Saint Nicholas, “Sinterklaass.”

The Santa we know in Canada today comes from a combination of European traditions and American poems, stories and songs. Santa doesn’t look much like Saint Nicholas anymore. Still, Santa is a symbol of giving. This time of year it is good to remember to give, not just to our friends and family, but to those in need.

Dark Days

December is the darkest month of the year in Vancouver. When you wake up it is dark and by 4:30 in the afternoon the sun is gone again. It can be a hard time for many people. Here is a list of fun things to do in December to help you get through the dark days:

1. Take the Skytrain downtown. The lights and decorations are fun and free. Stop into the Hyatt Regency hotel and see the gingerbread houses from December 3 to 27 (655 Burrard Street)2. Try ice skating at Killarney Community Centre or outside at Robson Square3. See the Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden4. Go to Chinatown on December 21 for the Winter Solstice Festival at the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden5. Go for a walk outside6. Take a Zumba class at Collingwood Neighbourhood House7. See Santa at the Vancouver Santa Claus Parade on December 6 (downtown)8. Invite a friend over for coffee or tea9. Go to the library and find a great book to read10. Warm up in the Killarney Community Centre hot tub

l November 28th Winter Carnival and Community Tree Lighting 4 - 8 p.m.

Please join us in our annual Winter Carnival and Community Tree Lighting event under the BIG tent in the Safeway parking lot at the the corner of Kingsway and Tyne. Hot cocoa, cookies, arts & crafts, raffle draws for some great prizes. Photos with Santa, balloonartist, carollers, choirs, magic by Graham the Magic Guy and holiday movie with popcorn. The Collingwood BIA would like to thank everyone for coming out to kick off the holiday season. See ad on back page for full event schedule.

Thank you to our partners: the Collingwood Community Policing Centre, Safeway and Starbucks.

Special Thank you to our Sponsors: Mosaic BC, Westbank Development Corp., London Drugs, Central Park Business Centre l Shop the Neighbourhhood with Yellow Pages – Saturday November 28th, 2015!

Thank you all the businesses that signed to participate in Shop the Neighbourhood. Keeping those precious shopping dollars local. We’ll be doing it again next year.

Sign up your business at www.shoptheneighbourhood.ca Create a deal for the National Shop the Neighbourhood day. Go to their website for more information.

l Social Media

We have asked the businesses to decorate their store fronts and spread the festive cheer along Kingsway. We would love to see you post your favorite decorated store on our social media using the #hollyshopcollingwood and your post can win cash prizes. Winners will be selected December 31st. Enter as many photos as you’d like. If you are a business there is contest for you too. Post a photo and you can win #hollyshopcolingwood

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Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a Very Happy New Year

from the Collingwood BIA Board and Staff.

*This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Business Improvement Association

Collingwood Business Improvement Association

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11RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS December 2015


Vancouver Aboriginal Child and Family Services Society is seeking loving and dedicated foster parents who are willing to share their homes and provide foster care for Aboriginal babies, children, and youth in the Greater Vancouver area. We invite Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal applicants.

Information Sessions are held on the 1st Tuesday of every month at 6:45pm in our office at 3284 East Broadway, Vancouver. For more information, please email [email protected] or call 604-216-7447.

The art of community engagementBringing talents to the Artisans’ Market – Saturday, December 5 The Renfrew-Collingwood Multicultural Artists’ Network (RCMAN) presents the seventh annual Collingwood Village Artisans’ Market on Saturday, December 5, 2015 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. The market is admission-free and features more than 25 local artisans, musicians and performers as well as surprise raffle prizes.

Community engagement through art has always been a core part of Collingwood Neighbourhood House’s practices. The neighbourhood house believes that community engagement through artistic, educational, social and physical activities is fundamental in the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

This community event brings together local artisans with various intercultural backgrounds,

traditions and talents to share their experiences with our neighbours. Market items include woodwork, traditional textile, pottery, knitting, baking, painting and holiday decorations. The market’s famous Santa Claus will also be on site to entertain, share stories and be available for photos. Local choirs, dancers and musicians will showcase their talents on stage. Talented Mayan weaver Petrona Garcia will also demonstrate her craft-making skills.

What an incredible experience it has been to see our neighbours and artisans coming together for the creation of the Artisans Village Market over the years! The beautiful handmade crafts, tasty foods and lively music will create many smile-filled memories for everyone who visits.

Instead of keeping their artwork hidden from sight in their studios and homes, community members bring their talents to Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) to share with other people, enjoy commonalities and value differences. Programs and events such as the artisan market capture and, perhaps, give structure to the evolving need for social connection. This is particularly important for immigrants and newcomers who seek to find a community to feel welcomed, recognized and inspired.

For example, Cindy discovered Social Culture Club at CNH nine months ago and attended the gatherings on Saturday mornings. She started to explore diverse activities to maintain her quality of life, formed friendships, encouraged others and enjoyed sharing her skills.

Cindy took leadership roles and volunteered in programs at CNH to enhance her talents. She says that, with these programs she feels acknowledged as an active community member and she is able to enjoy different traditions and practice speaking English. She is excited to contribute her sewing skills to raise funds for the program at the Artisan Village Market. “Being part of the Collingwood Neighbourhood Community has benefited my life in many different ways,” she says.

Mark your calendar, folks! You will have a chance to win raffle prizes! This is a great way to get your holiday presents, support local economy, and socialize. Come enjoy and explore the artisans’ craft-making, all the performances and delicious food—see you there!

If you have questions, please email Eda at [email protected].

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13RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS December 2015

The Seniors Connection

Dear Neighbours: Holiday Open House The holiday season has arrived! I’m wishing you and your family a safe, happy holiday. I hope you’ll join me for a Holiday Open House at my community office. Drop in for lunch, festive treats, and cheer!

Date: Saturday, December 19th, 11am – 2pm

Location: Adrian Dix Community Office, 5022 Joyce Street

The Franchise Act Becomes Law

In 2013, a Vancouver-Kingsway constituent came to my office to discuss his business – a franchise operation in the food services industry. He wanted to discuss the unfair playing field that governs these business in BC in their relationship with the often big businesses that sell franchises. In BC, unlike other provinces, there is no Franchise Act, leaving small business vulnerable to manipulation.

Since 2013, along with many small businesses, I have campaigned to pressure the government to introduce a Franchise law in BC. And, in November, we succeeded – a new Franchise Act passed the BC Legislature. I want to thank the Vancouver Kingsway business owners whose determination made this possible.

British Columbia Community Achievement Awards

“Give back to the people who give the most in your community”.

Can you think of anyone who embodies this phrase? If you can, please consider nominating them for the British Columbia Community Achievement Award! Any current or former long-term resident of BC is eligible for nomination. And the awards will honour people who have made a significant contribution to their community through a unique achievement or outstanding service – either as a volunteer or in the course of their work. The nomination deadline is January 15, 2016.

Complete the online nomination form by going to: www.bcachievement.com/community/online

Free Public Access Computer

The public access computer is available for use!

All constituents are welcome to drop by during our office hours to use the computer (Monday to Thursday from 9am to 4pm, and on Friday by appointment). My Constituency Assistants are happy to help with any difficulty.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Holiday celebrations at Collingwood Neighbourhood House! by Suzanne Liddle

December has arrived and the seniors programs at Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) have lots in store to help you celebrate and get involved this festive season. The Community Christmas Lunch takes place on Thursday, December 17 from 12 noon to 2:30 pm. Tickets go on sale on Monday, November 30 and always sell out quickly! The cost for a seniors ticket is $7, adults $8, students $7 and kids $5. Come enjoy a delicious turkey meal, door prizes and lots of entertainment. If you’re feeling creative the Monday Fun day group will be making decorations and centrepieces and decorating

trees on Monday, December 14 in preparation for the lunch from 1:15 to 3 pm. Enjoy light refreshments and meet new people!

The neighbourhood house is also running a bus to Burnaby Village Museum on Tuesday, December 15 from 4 to 7 pm. You can hop on for the low cost of $5 to take a stroll around the museum to enjoy the Christmas lights then come back again when you are ready as the shuttle will be making multiple trips. If you have never joined any of the programs at CNH why not consider giving it a go in December? You will be made especially welcome! The Monday Fun day group is open

to everyone and meets each Monday at 1:15 pm for something different every week, from nutrition workshops and health information to arts and crafts to games and activities. The Thursday morning drop-in coffee social is a great place to meet new friends and get to know people in your community. December can be a time when lots of people, including seniors, feel isolated and lonely. The Renfrew Collingwood Better at Home Friendly visiting program can help. Volunteers provide companionship and a chat on a regular basis for those who find it difficult to leave their home or who would benefit from more social contact. If this sounds like you or someone you know please

get in touch with the program. The Better at Home program also provides a light housekeeping and yard work service, a senior’s bus shuttle and a twice weekly walking club. You can reach the coordinator at 604-435-0375 for more information.

Suzanne Liddle is the Better at Home and seniors programs co-coordinator at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street. She has been working with seniors for over seven years in Northern Ireland and Vancouver.

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This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Collingwood Neighbourhood HouseH I G H L I G H T S


Inclusive process produces new CNH strategic plan by Norman Hill

Where do we want to be in five or 10 years? How do we get there? What are our priorities?

These are some of the questions Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) tackled recently as it completed a strategic plan for 2015 – 2020 which was based on a comprehensive consultation process that included broad input from the community. The plan examines how our neighbourhood is changing and establishes clear strategies that will allow CNH, together with our neighbours and partners, to help make Renfrew-Collingwood an even better neighbourhood.

The strategic plan is comprised of eight specific strategies:

1. Promote a work environment that embraces communication, self-care, personal development and manageable workloads. 2. Continue to develop our practice of intercultural, asset-based community development and share our stories. 3. Convene an inclusive, neighbourhood-wide approach to improving the social and cultural infrastructure in Renfrew-Collingwood. 4. Expand resident access to affordable childcare. 5. Promote a healthy built and natural environment in our neighbourhood. 6. Strengthen capacity of those who are sometimes labelled as vulnerable, isolated, or disengaged so they can share their gifts, and contribute to a sense of belonging in Renfrew-Collingwood. 7. Expand our capacity to seek stable revenues that increase our independence and sustain CNH’s work. 8. Integrate physical and digital spaces and programming opportunities across all of our sites.

Each strategy requires that three or more related actions be completed. To see the full strategic plan, which includes an analysis of our changing neighbourhood and a detailed explanation of CNH’s vision, mission, values, strategies and their related actions, visit www.cnh.bc.ca

The strategic plan was created through an in-depth, eight-month consultation process with CNH’s stakeholders. The goal was to make the strategic planning process inclusive for CNH staff, participants and members, the neighbourhood house’s collaborative partners and funders, and residents of the neighbourhood.

The process included work by a planning committee of the Board and staff directors and staff working with a facilitator, many ‘circles of engagement’ dialogue sessions at CNH with staff, volunteers and participants, a world café with funders and community partners, strategic plan-related questions in CNH’s annual members’ survey, Board and

staff director planning sessions, and a broad documents review to consider the trends and changing demographics affecting CNH and Renfrew-Collingwood. The Management Team reviewed the draft plan and the Board approved the final plan.

The ‘circles of engagement’ were particularly interesting. They were based on an appreciative approach in which circle participants focused on assets (what’s working and can be built on). The circles of engagement provided lots of stories from staff, participants, volunteers, and partners and captured the essence of CNH. Some of these stories are included in the final plan. “The strategic planning process was really exciting. It got people talking, thinking, and dreaming about how to make a better neighbourhood house and how to improve the neighbourhood as well,” CNH Executive Director Jennifer Gray-Grant said.

Help support our community with a tax-deductible donation to CNHEvery day, CNH provides programs, services, and initiatives for Renfrew-Collingwood residents. We offer child care, recreation programs, family programs, seniors programs, youth programs, immigrant services, English classes, community meals and food workshops, celebrations, arts and cultural activities, and much more!

CNH’s work is made possible by government or

foundation funding, program fees and the dedicated efforts of our hundreds of volunteers. Yet we still have a need to fundraise so that we can continue to reach out and engage local residents.

Individual donations are a great help. We hope that, in this season of giving, you will consider making a tax-deductible donation to Collingwood Neighbourhood

House. You could mail or drop off a cheque to CNH (5288 Joyce Street, Vancouver, V5R 6C9) or go to www.cnh.bc.ca and click the ‘DONATE’ button at the far right-hand side of the page and follow the prompts.

Note that CNH is a registered charity so all donations are tax-deductible. Thanks for considering a donation to CNH.

COMMUNITY LUNCH Collingwood Neighbourhood House invites you to lunch every Tuesday and Thursday. Full meal prices are $6.25 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for students and $3.25 for children under 12. Items can be purchased a la carte or “to go.”

December lunch menu

Tuesday, December 1Roasted Pumpkin Carrot SoupPulled Pork Sandwich /Veggie option SaladApple Crumble Thursday, December 3Roasted Chicken or Stuffed EggplantMashed Potatoes Salad Chocolate Cookies

Tuesday, December 8Tomato Chickpea SoupRoast Beef Sandwich/ Veggie option SaladVanilla Pudding Thursday, December 10Chicken Parmesan with Roasted Vegetables/ Veggie option Salad Chocolate Cake

Tuesday, December 15 Cauliflower SoupSockeye Salmon Salad Sandwich or Grilled Cheese SaladPineapple Cupcake

Thursday, December 17Christmas Lunch

Image by local artist Rosanne Lambert

15RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS December 2015RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

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

604 257-8388 Fax: 604 257-8392 Website: www.vancouver.ca/renfrewrec

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

Special Event HighlightsBreakfast with Santa

Saturday, December 12th 9:30-1:30pm$5/person

Join us with family and friends for a pancake breakfast, Fun crafts after breakfast as well as

a visit with Santa to complete your day. All participants under the age of 12 years

must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are limited buy them early.

Come for the whole duration of the event to meet Santa and play before and after you eat.

Breakfast seating: 9:30-11:30am & 11:00am-12:00pm

Crystal Ball (55+yrs)Sat Dec 5 1:15-3:45pm $7.62/person

Christmas in the Country (55+yrs)Wed Dec 9 9:30am-5:00pm $84.76/person

Holiday Lights Tour (55+yrs)Thu Dec 10 5:30-9:30pm $19.05/person

Christmas Luncheon (55+yrs)Wed Dec 16 12:00-2:30pm $11.43/person

Red Cross Babysitting Training First Aid Hero (11+yrs) So you want to be a babysitter or, your parents want you to take this course so they feel confident leaving you at home alone? Babysitting with First Aid Hero emphasizes learning through real life scenarios. Please bring a bag lunch (no nuts please) plenty of water and snacks. Sun Dec 20 10:30am-5:30pm $60/person

Volunteer Training (14-18yrs) This training is mandatory for people wanting to volunteer in Renfrew Park Community Centre programs/events. This training provides hands-on experience, enhances your skill in problem solving, conflict resolution and how to lead activities and games. Thu Jan 14 5:00-7:00pm Free

Wibit Inflatable Day in the pool Saturday, Dec 19 from 3:00pm–5:00pm

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

Winter Registration is ongoing, register early so you don’t miss out. For our full listing of programs check out our website or drop by and pick up a brochure. GST excluded. Registration has now started. Register early so you don’t miss out.

Holiday Hours of Operation Pool Fitness Ctr Centre Area Mon Dec 21 6am-9:30pm 6am-9:30pm Closed Tue Dec 22 6am-9:30pm 6am-9:30pm Closed Wed Dec 23 6am-9:30pm 6am-9:30pm Closed Thu Dec 24 6am-4pm 6am-4pm Closed Fri Dec 25 Sat Dec 26 8:30am-4pm 9:30am-4pm Closed Sun Dec 27 1pm-5pm 1pm-5pm Closed Mon Dec 28 6am-9:30pm 6am-9:30pm Closed Tue Dec 29 6am-9:30pm 6am-9:30pm Closed Wed Dec 30 6am-9:30pm 6am-9:30pm Closed Thu Dec 31 6am-4pm 6am-4pm Closed Fri Jan 1 Closed Sat Jan 2 8:30am-4pm 9:30am-4pm Closed Sun Jan 3 1pm-5pm 1pm-5pm Closed

Happy Holidays! See you in 2016.

Closed

Life insurance • Critical illness insurance • Disability insuranceGroup insurance • RRSP • RESP* • TFSA • Annuities

*Mutual funds offered by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc.Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is a member of the Sun Life Financial group of companies.© Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2015.

Vandna Sohnvi* B.Sc.Vandna Financial Services Inc. Tel: [email protected]/vandna.sohnvi2540 Nanaimo StreetVancouver, BC V5N 5X1

I can help with your goals. Let’s talk about Money for Life.

Life’s brighter under the sun

I want Money for Life.Great Gifts for Book Lovers If you have readers on your gift list, find their next book (or yours!) based on favourite reads. If they liked those, they will love these.

If they liked The Last Runaway by Trace Chevalier, tryThe Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd Traces more than three decades in the lives of a wealthy Charleston debutante who longs to break free from the strictures of her household and pursue a meaningful life; and the urban slave, Handful, who is placed in her charge as a child before finding courage and a sense of self.

If they liked The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, try Etta & Otto & Russell & James by Emma Hooper

82-year-old Etta has never seen the ocean. Early one morning she takes a rifle, some chocolate, and her best boots, and begins walking the 3,232 kilometres from rural Saskatchewan to Halifax.

If they liked the Louise Penny’s Chief Inspector Gamache series, try the John Cardinal series by Giles Blunt

The disappearance of another youngster in the rural town of Algonquin Bay forces local cop John Cardinal into a desperate search for a possible serial killer. Start with the first book in series, Forty Words for Sorrow.

Renfrew Library2969 East 22nd Avenue, next to Renfrew Community Centre, 604-257-8705

Booklist by Taya Lawton


�s �e Season to PartyCollingwood WINTER CARNIVAL

PRESENTED TO YOU BY:

[email protected] 604.639.4403

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4:00 pm ❉ Arts & Crafts - Collingwood Jr.BIA

4:00 - 7:00 pm ❉ Bent Air Balloons

4:30 - 5:15 pm ❉ Silver Belles Carollers

5:00 pm ❉ Lighting of the Community Tree

5:15 - 7:00 pm ❉ Photos with Santa

5:30 - 6:15 pm ❉ Magic Show with Graham the magic guy

6:30 - 7:00 pm❉ ChildrenÕs Choir -St. MaryÕs Catholic School

7:15 - 7:45 pm ❉ Classic Holiday Movie

7:45 pm ❉ Raffle Draws

¥ Saturday, November 28, 2015 ● Safeway Parking Lot (Kingsway&Tyne)

❉ ❉ ❉

Renfrew-Collingwood Community News December 2015

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Transcript of Renfrew-Collingwood Community News December 2015