Renfrew-Collingwood Community News, February 2014

COMMUNITY NEWS RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com

February 2014

Continued on page 3

Books for Me! fosters the joy of reading at Graham Bruce Elementary school

Literacy foundation builds new partnership in Renfrew-Collingwood

Grade 1 students Matthew and Derek (left to right) proudly display the books they chose to take home with them. “The cover is very cool,” says Matthew. “I think this book is good,” says Derek. Photo by Julie Cheng

by Julie Cheng

“Thank YOU!” The heartfelt, joyous chorus of the students was music to the ears. As the grade 4/5 students filed out of the room, each clutching a book provided free of charge by Books for Me!, Mary Ann Cummings beamed.“It’s really wonderful to see how excited these kids are,” she said. Mary Ann is the president and a founding member of Books for Me! Literacy Foundation, a Vancouver-based charity that puts donations of new or gently used books directly in the hands of children.

Mid January, Mary Ann, Books for Me! secretary and co-founder Dana Hirst, first-time volunteer Mai Doan, along with teacher-librarian Dee Mochrie and principal Lani Morden, were on hand to deliver the first batch of books to Graham Bruce Elementary School students.

A retired lawyer, Mary Ann saw the importance of literacy first hand when she worked with prison inmates as a law student. “I became convinced literacy is the key—you need to have those skills to prosper in society,” she said. Indeed, you could say supporting children’s literacy is one of the best

Illegal dumping Page 2 Eating Out: Boston Pizza Page 5 Francisco’s Guatemala appeal Page 6 Karen Donauer, volunteer star 3

HELP franciscoBUY SCHOOL DESKS FOR CHILDREN IN HIS TOWNFormer schoolteacher and longtime Collingwood resident,Francisco Domingo, is donating $1,500 to the cantón El Llano primary school in his hometown in Guatemala to buy school desks and chairs. Help Francisco reach his goal of $1,000 more to make sure every student in the school has a seat - and an opportunity for education.

a desk & chair set costs

$22in canadian dollars

there are

110students enrolled

students willbe able to learn

spanish&

mam(local Mayan language)

cantón El Llano islocated in the municipality of

San Pedro Nectain the department of

Huehuetanango, Guatemala

if you would like to contribute:contact FRANCISCO: [email protected] 604.767.1779

or find him at work: COLLINGWOOD NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE

- The date, time and location· -What type of material was dumped· -A description of vehicle and/or the person

To report illegal dumping on private property, contact the Vancouver Police Department’s Non-Emergency line at 604-717-3321.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSFebruary 20142

How to report illegal dumping in laneways and parks

The City of Vancouver is seeking your assistance to report on-view instances of illegal dumping in your neighbourhood. For more information, visit the City of Vancouver’s Illegal Dumping website at vancouver.ca/home-property-development/abandoned-garbage-and-illegal-dumping.aspx.

If you witness illegal dumping, try to observe, record and immediately report as much information as possible. A license plate is always an extremely helpful detail in identifying the person doing the dumping.

Reporting Illegal Dumping: To report illegal dumping on public property: Please call 3-1-1 or email [email protected] staff will ask you for a description of the material, the address or closest intersection where it was dumped, and your contact information.

If you notice illegal dumping, make a note of:·

SAN VALENTINOFeb 14th at The Poor Italian RistoranteJoin us for a romantic Italian dinner for twothis Valentine’s Day at The Poor Italian Ristorante.View our special menu online and treat your special someone to a wonderful evening!

DINE OUT VANCOUVERJanuary 17th - Feb 2ndCanada’s largest restaurant festival!Get in on the fun and reserve your table today. 3 Courses for $38 Choices include our house made ravioli, B.C. seafood and signature Tiramisu...View our full menu at PoorItalian.com

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Happy Family Day!Wishing you a

happy and safe holiday.

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3RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

This could be your ad.

For more information Contact Lisa Phone: 604-435-0323 extension 261 or Email: [email protected]

February 2014

investments in the future. Studies show that children who have books in their home reach a higher education level.

As of January 1, 2014, Books for Me! has placed more than 14,700 books with kids through programs at 11 locations, including Collingwood Neighbourhood School, Collingwood Neighbourhood House and Thunderbird Community Centre.

The new local partnership with Books for Me! was formed after Lani Morden, as principal of Graham Bruce and its annex Collingwood Neighbourhood School, heard from Liz Hayes-Brown, the vice principal at Collingwood, how successful the program has been received by students and teachers. Collingwood Neighbourhood School and Books for Me! have been working together for a year and a half.

Programs such as Books for Me! encourage reading in the home. As Family Literacy Day this January 27 highlights, it is critical for parents and caregivers to read daily with their children and to make books and reading an integral part of their family lives. Reading, even 15 minutes a day, is important to a child’s development.

Books for Me! also organizes and funds school visits by children’s book authors. “We’re so excited because author Jacqueline Pearce is coming in April,” Principal Morden said.

Books for Me! welcomes volunteers and donations of books. If you are interested in volunteering or hosting a book drive at your place of work, please contact [email protected]. You can visit www.booksformevancouver.org for more information.

Books for Me! Continued from page 1

“I like Winnie the Pooh!” says Jaylene. Photos by Julie Cheng

Grade 1 student Jaylene carefully places a bookplate in her book with the help of Dana Hirst, a founding member of Books for Me!

Danny, Tanner, Sydney and Anya, from the grade 4/5 class, check out the v variety of books on display.

“As of January 1, 2014, Books for Me! has placed more than 14,700 books with kids”

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: Crecien Bencio, Julie Cheng, Kat Cureton, Loretta Houben, Paul Reid

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

We want to hear from you!

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

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

Next submission deadline: Feb. 10


Your family tree 1921 Canadian Census tips by Loretta Houben

The Canadian census is a wonderful tool for genealogists, and the recent 2013 release of the 1921 census is a marvellous resource for those of us tracing our Canadian ancestors from 92 years ago.

Canada has a 92-year privacy law, unlike England’s law of 100 years or the USA’s law of only 72 years. I’m not sure as to the how and why of these laws, but I was delighted to begin searching the 1921 census online the day it became available in August 2013. Since that time, the census has been fully indexed on Ancestry.ca. This means that you don’t need to know where your ancestor lived, but you can simply enter the name and if they were living in Canada at that time, you will find them. The 1920s were a decade of great change. The settling of the West took place, along with Prohibition and women’s rights. On June 1, 1921, enumerators were sent to every part of Canada, and the questions asked on the census form were dated from the first, meaning that anyone born after that date is not included in the census, and anyone passing away after the first is still on the census.

There are 8.8 million records in this database. A new technology is used for the first time at Ancestry.ca for this census. Once your ancestor’s name is entered, providing it’s in the database, it will show up highlighted. (Please see example shown.) The first national Canadian census was taken in 1871. At first it was taken every 10 years, but after 1956 it was taken every five years. From

1911 to 1921 there was a 22 percent increase in the population of Canada. Thirty-five questions were asked on the 1921 census. If you go to Ancestry.ca and click on “card catalogue” and then “search” you will find a list of options. Choose “1921 Census of Canada” and fill in the form. This is completely free but you need to create an account by using an email address. I was thrilled when I entered my paternal grandfather’s name and discovered that, as of June 1, 1921, he was married to Ellen and had one son named Edward H. No one in my family knew her real name as she died in 1926; we only knew her by the nickname of Nellie. This was my first real clue and confirmation as to her name. Also, Edward was called Harry, probably his middle name, and he died in 1925, so this is the one and only time he and his mother appear on a census.

The 1921 census covers a lot of material. In the first section, the dwelling number, number of family members, names of each person, parish, section, township, range and meridian of farms for addresses in the country. The next section asked a series of questions about the house itself; was the house rented or owned? How much per month if rented? What is the class of house? What are the materials of construction? Even the number of rooms is included.

A personal description including relationship to the head of the household, sex, marital status, age at last birthday, nativity (where born; give province or name of country) and citizenship, which included year of immigration, year of naturalization and nationality, were all asked. Racial or tribal origin, language; English or

French, language other than English, religious body, denomination with abbreviations such as Meth: Methodist; RC: Roman Catholic; CH of E: Church of England; Pres: Presbyterian; Bapt: Baptist.

Other questions, which were all tallied in columns on a large page, included education; can he read, write, how many months has he been in school since September 1920. Profession, occupation or employment, with specific questions on status of employment. Even income and unemployment earnings for the past 12 months are listed and whether the person was employed on census day.

As you can see, that is a wealth of information! For 92 years it was kept secret, and now we can all access it, thanks to Library and Archives Canada, which has released it to Ancestry.ca for free. If you are really interested, you can go to YouTube and view a discussion on the above by Ancestry.ca—this is what I used to understand the 1921 census more fully.

It’s all there at your fingertips, and I encourage you to try it to trace your family roots. You will be pleasantly surprised at what you discover! The next installment in family tree tips will focus on Vancouver City Directories and Cross Directories for hunting down clues to where your family lived. Loretta Houben has enjoyed writing these family tree articles and would love to know if any of you have had success with your own family tree these past few months.

At Ancestry.ca, once your ancestor’s name is entered, providing it’s in the 1921 census database, it will show up highlighted.

5

Eating Out in RC: by Paul Reid

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSRENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2014

Two locations2582 Commercial Drive 604-707-66692889 Grandview Hwy 604-568-6121

freshslice.com

Come together right now with Freshslice Pizza

Single Extra Large Pizza with two toppings

Only $7.99*Redeemable with coupon.

Pick-Up Special

EYE CARE CENTRE

Excellence in Education

Graham Bruce Elementary

dynamic programs for K-7 students

3633 tanner st.Vancouver 604-713-4778

bruce.vsb.bc.ca

Boston Pizza2850 Bentall StPhone (604) 439-1132 Business website bostonpizza.com

Greetings food fans. How are we this February? Have you guys got a place picked out for you and your little sweetie come the fourteenth? I have the perfect place: Boston Pizza.

Here’s why. First off, she’s probably not expecting too much out of you anyway, so if you were to say, “Hey my little lover – we’re going out for dinner to celebrate our love,” then you’re way ahead of the curve already. And being ahead of the curve, why not make this a true couple’s night and go someplace that you will both enjoy. She’s going to love everything that BP’s extensive and delicious menu has to offer, and you my friend, on top of that, are going to enjoy, in addition to gazing lovingly into your sweetie’s eyes, glancing up to where your favourite sports are playing.

Now I’ve already checked this out, and although the Canucks are not playing this Valentine’s, we will be smack dab in the middle of the Olympics action, which runs February 7th to the 23rd. And what’s really awesome to remember, is that you don’t have to wait until Valentine’s Day to hit BP – their big screens are serving up all of the best sports year round. The Super Bowl, for instance!

The night that my sweet accomplice and I took to BP, the Seahawks were putting it to San Francisco to win the National Conference title. What a great game and what better way to watch it than at BP with a big fun

group of staff, fellow customers and friends if you got ’em. Our booth had a great view of the action, but how could you not with flat screens galore.Okay folks, enough about the TVs and the sports action, but you gotta admit – it’s a pretty awesome feature about BP. Obviously, our good friend and chairman of Boston Pizza is doing something right. BP has more locations, serving more guests annually than any other casual dining concept in the country with more than 40 million guests served at over 340 locations in Canada each year! That’s a lot of flat screens.And now, onto the food portion of our review. My sweetie and I started with a double shot of appetizers – some very cheeky Thai wings alongside a mountain of your classic nachos – with guacamole. Love chicken wings? BP offers a wide variety of chicken wings and we went with the All Meat Wings – a “boneless wing” that is actually a breaded and fried chicken breast. Fooled us. Very delicious and no bones to reveal what a little greedy pig you might have been.

To accompany this appetizing feast – I had a nice pint of Budweiser, which was on special and offered me some kind of entry into a draw. My accomplice was in frozen alcoholic drink heaven as BP not only had bellinis, her favourite, but daiquiris, margaritas, and the one that she decided to try, the Twisted

Rocket, a drink that contains three layers of crushed ice: a red layer with lemonade, raspberry purée and Smirnoff Razz Twist Vodka; a white layer of lemonade; and a blue layer with lemonade and Blue Curacao. Very nice.

Now, we wanted to relax at BP for the entire game, so we may have had a few rounds of said drinks. No driving was involved of course. What was involved though was a medium pizza called The Amigo – a spicy chili pepper pizza with mozzarella, cheddar, green and red peppers, banana peppers, taco beef, guacamole and sour cream.

The Amigo was enough to see us through to the Seahawks victory that day. It was also a victory for our tastebuds, and this, my friends, shall not be the last time. I truly do enjoy the consistently great food and service and TVs at Boston Pizza and maybe we’ll see you this here Valentine’s Day and beyond. Bon appetite.

6 RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

London Square Dental Centre #220 3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.435.4545

Collingwood Insurance 5750 Tyne Street Ph: 604.438.9888

E.41st Ave.

E.33rd Ave.

Kingsway

North

Joyc

e St

.

Rupe

rt St

.

Earle

s St.

Sloc

an S

t. Renf

rew

St.

E.29th Ave.

Broadway

E.22nd Ave.

Boundary Rd.Nan

aim

o St

.

Grandview Hwy.

Renfrew / Collingwood

The Tipper Restaurant 2066 Kingsway Ph: 604.873.1010

C

E

F

FG

C

G

H

H

J

J

F

F

Joyce Hair Design 5156 Joyce St. Ph: 604.451.7680

Papa John’s Pizza #300-3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.310.PAPA

K

K

K

K

February 2014

Renfrew Park Community Centre 2929 E22nd. Ave. Ph: 604.257.8388

1st Avenue Dental Group 116 - 2800 E 1st Ave. Ph: 604.254.5040

HELP franciscoBUY SCHOOL DESKS FOR CHILDREN IN HIS TOWNFormer schoolteacher and longtime Collingwood resident,Francisco Domingo, is donating $1,500 to the cantón El Llano primary school in his hometown in Guatemala to buy school desks and chairs. Help Francisco reach his goal of $1,000 more to make sure every student in the school has a seat - and an opportunity for education.

a desk & chair set costs

$22in canadian dollars

there are

110students enrolled

students willbe able to learn

spanish&

mam(local Mayan language)

cantón El Llano islocated in the municipality of

San Pedro Nectain the department of

Huehuetanango, Guatemala

if you would like to contribute:contact FRANCISCO: [email protected] 604.767.1779

or find him at work: COLLINGWOOD NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE

Once again, Francisco Domingo is up to his humanitarian ways, this time raising money to help build a new kitchen for the school kids in his hometown in Guatemala. As you can see from the photos to the right, the school kitchen can hardly be called a kitchen and dust from the road gets into the meals everytime a vehicle passes.

If you would like to help Francisco to raise money for this simple yet worthwhile endeavour, you can leave your donations at the reception desk at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street, or call 604.435.0323.

Francisco’s Guatemala appeal

7RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSRENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Papa John’s Pizza #300-3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.310.PAPA

February 2014

Get InvolvedThe Dog Days of Collingwood!

The Dog Days of Collingwood!Do you have a loveable pooch? Would you like him/her to be part of Collingwood history? In the run-up to Collingwood Days, May 24-31 2014, organizers are creating a new set of Collector Cards that will tell the stories of our canine friends.

If you are interested, please submit a photo and short blurb about your four-legged friend by February 21, and your dog may be selected to be part of the Collingwood Days Collector Card series.

Please send a high-resolution image of your dog as well as a short blurb (80 words maximum) describing your dog and why he/she is special to [email protected] or drop the information off at

Photo by Mark Evans

Collingwood eMail connects neighbours

Did you know that anyone can send a message to the Collingwood eMail List that will be forwarded on to all of your subscribed Collingwood neighbours?

Please forward the following types of information to [email protected]!• Details about a fundraiser that benefits people in Collingwood• Contact information for a new business that just opened in Collingwood• Performance dates for a concert held in Collingwood• Details for a Block Watch Team meeting • Dates of sporting events that occur in one of Collingwood’s 9 parks (Slocan, Gaston, Collingwood, Carleton, Price, Foster, Cariboo, Melbourne) • Description of an item or pet that was lost in Collingwood• Description of an item or pet that was found in Collingwood• Description of an item to give away to a neighbour (furniture, TV, mattress)• Description of a vacant apartment or basement suite in Collingwood • Request to start a carpool or ride share• Request to start a new recreational softball team, volleyball team, or other sports team • Request to learn a new language or skill, or tutor someone in a language or skill• Request to trade extra fruit from a tree on your property To post something to the Collingwood Mailing List (CML), just send an email with the information you’d like to share to this email address:

[email protected]

A moderator will usually approve your email within 48 hours, and it will be sent to all subscribers of the Collingwood Mailing List.Let’s Play Ball!

Spring is just around the corner. Time to start thinking about signing up your kids to play baseball or softball. Registration is now open for the spring 2014 season.

Vancouver Minor Softball Association. Girls softball. vmsa.ca/index.php

Trout Lake Little League. Baseball for boys and girls. troutlakebaseball.wordpress.com/

Vancouver Minor Baseball. Plays out of Nanaimo Park. http://www.vancouverminorbaseball.com/.

Burnaby Minor Softball Association. Girls softball. burnabysoftball.org/divisions.php

Collingwood Neighbourhood House for Collingwood Days. Please submit with subject line Collingwood Dog Days: 1. A high-resolution picture of your special dog 2. Your dog’s name and your name 3. A 50-80 word maximum story about your dog and why he/she is special 4. Don’t forget to include your phone number, address and email Eligible canines must live in Renfrew-Collingwood (between Boundary Rd., Nanaimo St., 41st Avenue and Broadway).

Computer & Internet Basics – In Cantonese

電腦與互聯網入門 — 免費粵語電腦班

Wednesdays, February 12 – March 12 (5 classes) 9 –10:30 a.m. 逢星期三, 二月十二日 — 三月十二日 (共五堂課)

上午九點至十點半 Collingwood Branch, 2985 Kingsway Admission is free. Registration required. 604 438 8214 Get started with computers! Learn basic usage skills for Windows computers, including email and searching for information on the Internet. Register now as space is limited.

一切從電腦開始！學習視窗系統的基本運作, 包括電郵發送及互聯

網資訊浏灠。此免費電腦班以廣東話教學，歡迎參加, 座位有限,

現在就報名吧。

For more information about this event, contact MOSAIC at 604 438 8214 報名及查詢請電MOSAIC: 604 438 8214

www.mosaicbc.com

A Partnership Program: :

8 RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWSFebruary 2014

Remembering Dennis Tayler July 19, 1943–December 18, 2013A life well lived, a life well loved

On December 22, a large crowd packed into the multipurpose room at Collingwood Neighbourhood House to celebrate the life of Dennis Tayler, also known as Hank, Dennis the Menace, Nicho and Bumpa.

His wife Terry started the celebration by saying that her life partner would have been uncomfortable being the centre of attention in front of so many people. Dennis passed away peacefully on December 18, 2013, with the love of family around him.

A humble man, Dennis never sought the limelight but touched many lives in many meaningful ways. From his neighbours at home and abroad, to the homeless he served at the CNH Saturday breakfast program to politicians at the local, provincial and federal level, he treated everyone the same way: with kindness and respect.

Guests spoke of his humour (like his pun,“Don’t sweat the petty stuff and don’t pet the sweaty stuff”) and ability to navigate the streets of Vancouver (“He was my personal GPS”). He was considerate, making sure he danced twice with Terry at events, thinking always of including the children and being a friend to animals.Dennis, you will be missed, but you will stay with us in spirit.

Dennis, a gentle, kind humanitarian, a man of compassionIn April of 2005 we were driving home to Vancouver after spending the winter in Mazatlan Mexico. We were experiencing problems with our van so we stopped in Obregon in the state of Sonora. We were travelling with friends Art and Liz Goddard. They followed us around trying to find a mechanic who could even look at the problem. Finally we found a backyard mechanic next to an empty corner lot filled with garbage. The mechanic determined it was an electrical problem and we would have to wait until Monday to get it fixed at a different place. It was Saturday so Leo, the mechanic, invited us to stay in our campers in the vacant lot until Monday.

By then it was getting late so the four of us settled in to stay for the night. Art did an inventory of the garbage in the lot for something to do. It was an interesting report. We spent the night listening to some great music playing at a wedding reception across the street. Dennis went to check out the action and helped to load and unload chairs for the reception while he chatted with the workers.

In the mechanic’s yard there was a homeless man called Pancho who slept in the back of an old station wagon on a piece of cardboard. Pancho, who spoke a little English, introduced himself and said he would be our security for the night and to not worry about the action across the street.

The next morning after coffee we said goodbye to the Goddards, since there was no point in them staying any longer. Besides we had the company of two dogs, a cat and lots of roosters, chickens and many baby chicks running all around us. I spent the day reading and Dennis went for a walk and chatted at length with Pancho. It turns out Pancho was epileptic and had fallen down during a seizure the night before. He had bandages on his face.

Dennis asked him if he had seen a doctor and he said yes. The doctor had given him a prescription but he had no money to get it. So Dennis said “come with me,” and away they went to the pharmacy to get the prescription filled. It turns out there were two prescriptions and they had to be taken at different times. Dennis wrote out a schedule for Pancho to keep it all straight. Then Pancho told him he had no watch or clock to tell the time, so Dennis took off his fake Rolex and gave it to him. After that Pancho realized he had no glasses to read the schedule, so they went back to the pharmacy and Dennis bought him a cheap pair of reading glasses. Now we thought he was all set only to find out later that night he could not see to read as the lot was pitch black and there was no electricity. Fortunately, we had a spare flashlight and batteries to give him.

Pancho was so happy and grateful. He kept saying to Dennis, “you are an angel sent to me by God, I will be forever grateful.” Of course Dennis said, “de nada amigo.” The few hundred pesos we spent was literally nothing to us, but it meant the world to Pancho. To show us his gratitude Pancho cooked us up a dinner of fried potatoes, onions and peppers over a fire in an old tire rim using some sort of well-used pans he had scrounged from somewhere. What a tasty meal it was.

The following day after our van was fixed, we said goodbye to Leo and Pancho and continued our trip home without any more incidents.

The next year on our way south to Mazatlan we stopped in Obregon to check on Pancho. Leo the mechanic said that Pancho had returned to be with family in Tijuana.

There is no better story to exemplify the wonderful humanitarian nature of Dennis Tayler.

—Terry Tayler

9RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2014RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

September 2013

St. Mary’s School

Nurturing the heart,

mind & spirit. We provide

a comprehensiveeducation that embodies

the Catholic faith.

Register your child for kindergarten for the 2 014 - 2015 school year.

604 - 437-1312 • www.stmary.bc.ca • o�[email protected]

5239 JOYCE STREET • VANCOUVER • BC • V5R 4G8

St. Mary’s Elementary SchoolFinal size: 5.125" x 5.75" (1/4 page)Publication: Renfrew Collingwood Community NewsRevised: January 8, 2014 - Revision 3

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

C:\Documents and Settings\Administrator\My Documents\RC_Community_News\february_2014\Amlatsi Flyer.doc

All FAMILIES WELCOME!

(“A House to Play and Learn”)

Amlat’si is a drop-in program for families of all cultures with children from birth – 6 years of age and their extended family. Child development

activities with an Aboriginal focus(crafts, storytelling, play time).

Day: Monday Free Time: 3:00 – 5:00 pm Lots of indoor and outdoor play, beautiful crafts,

storytelling and more! Nutritious snack for everyone!

Location: Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street (2 blocks south of the Joyce Street Skytrain Station)

For more information please phone 604-435-0323 Valeria Mancilla, Amlat’si Program Manager/Nancy Sweedler, Child Development

Coordinator Or drop by Collingwood Neighbourhood House and learn more about us!

Funded by Vancouver Coastal Health Authority

Amlat’si is a friendly, creative, comfortable andsupportive Family Drop-in where parents cansocialize and play and learn with their children.Families are also invited and welcome to stay forthe Parent Support Circles and All NationsFamilies Branching Out Dinner and Program

In Memoriam: Ann Matthew 1960–2014Ann Matthew was a dedicated volunteer and dear friend to the Morningstar Breakfast Program at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, where she worked every Saturday with the kitchen team to prepare bag lunches and morning meals for thousands of our neighbours over the years. Her contribution to Collingwood was far more than that, though. She was living proof of the indomitability of the human spirit.

Ann had clearly had more than her share of adversity, but she took the worst life could throw at her without complaint. She remained steadfastly as she always was, an incredibly tough yet exceptionally generous, caring and compassionate soul. We miss her unconstrained optimism, her contagious laughter and the energy she brought to our dark and early mornings. Ann brightened up our lives.

In Ann’s honour, CNH will be planting flowers in her honour by the sign on our front lawn, where they’ll bloom each spring for years to come. You can see them now at the front desk.

Ann (centre) with her buddies at the

Morningstar Breakfast progam.

New Read On Writer Hello, please let me introduce myself. I’m Cari, the new writer of Read On.

I worked as an ELSA teacher at Collingwood Neighbourhood House for five years. Now I am home with my two girls, Senna (age 3) and Aven (1).

I am very excited to be able to share news and stories with you. Please send me any writing, poetry or ideas you may have. I hope that you will find Read On to be interesting and useful. Thanks for reading!

Cari and her two girls.


Read On! A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners

Reading levels on this page

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Read On! has a web page. You can:

Read the articles

Print worksheets

http://renfrew collingwood community news.com/ category/read-on/

The 14th of February is Valentine’s Day, a day to show your sweetheart how much you love him or her. You may give him a card or some chocolates, or maybe enjoy a romantic dinner together. But why do we celebrate Valentine’s Day? Where did this holiday come from?

Traditionally, February 14th was a day to celebrate Saint Valentine (a saint is a very important and holy person in the Christian church). There are different ideas about who Saint Valentine was, but the most popular story tells of a man from Terni, Italy. Valentine was a priest who went against the ruler of that time: Emperor Claudius II.

The emperor fought many wars and wanted to build his army. He thought that if men were not allowed to get married, they would serve longer as soldiers. He made it illegal for men to get engaged or married. Valentine secretly performed marriages for many couples who were in love. This is why he became known as the saint of lovers and couples everywhere. Valentine was martyred (killed for his beliefs)

around 270 A.D. Sometime between 495 and 500 A.D. the pope declared February 14th to be the feast of Saint Valentine.

It is amazing to think that Valentine’s Day has been celebrated for more than 1,500 years. The way it is celebrated may have changed over the years, but this idea has not: honour the beloved. Even if you don’t have a sweetheart, be sure to tell someone how much they mean to you this Valentine’s Day. You can download this Valentine’s Day word puzzle at

renfrewcollingwood communitynews.com/ category/read-on/

What is Valentine’s Day?

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

*This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Business Improvement Association

CBIA UPDATESl Lunar New Year – Year of the Horse February 8, 2014 Collingwood celebrates the Year of the Horse with traditional Lion Dance visiting participating businesses along Kingsway between Rupert and Boundary Road. Come out and watch the colourful lions bless the merchants to bring good fortune to their customers and their business for the coming year. Jr. BIA members will be handing out red envelopes with goodies.The festivities begin at 11:30am until 1:30pm. We thank the Hon Hsing Athletic Club once again for being our official Lion Dancers.

l Turn Down the Heat Week February 1 -8, 2014This is the second year the Collingwood BIA will be participating in this province wide initiative with Fortis BC. We challenge our businesses and the residents to Turn Down the Week to save on your energy costs

and help out the environment. Asking everyone to put on a sweater. The Collingwood BIA is also collecting sweaters, hats, scarves and other warm clothing and will donate it all to the Renfew-Collingwood Homeless Committee. You can drop off your clothing items at the Collingwood BIA office #300 – 3665 Kingsway and Bikram’s Yoga and Vancity – Collingwood Branch during the week of Feb. 1 -8th.

l Collingwood Days has been set for Saturday, May 31st 2014 from 11:00am – 4:00pm. Go to the website www.collingwooddays.com for vendor applications and sponsor information. Let’s showcase Collingwood business, artists and entrepreneurs!

l Contact us on Facebook for contests and current news from the BIA and our members. www.facebook.com/shopcollingwoodvancouver

Philip Liu is the operational manager for Bell Mobilekorner, Vancouver’s fastest-growing mobile services solution for business and personal use. Now with six locations in the Lower Mainland, Mobilekorner’s Collingwood location opened in November 2013. Whether it’s a phone, tablet, satellite TV\ or accessories you require, Mobilekorner is open 365 days per year to serve their customers in Mandarin, Korean and English. Mobilekorner’s specialty is business. “Our wireless business experts collaborate with you to design a custom wireless business plan designed to reduce your monthly wireless costs while meet your specific business and financial objectives.”

What sets Bell Mobilekorner apart from the big box stores or mall kiosks is their excellent service. “Because we are not working on commissions at Mobilekorner, we are able to take the time with our customers and to go that extra mile. We can help clients to get out of their current contract; we can help them move the data from their old device to their new one, as well as to provide ongoing technical advice and support.” Mobilekorner even makes house calls!

Another advantage that Mobilekorner has is that they carry a wide variety of mobile brands, so they can match you with the

right device to fit your personal needs and budget. From Androids to iPhones, and Galaxies to Blackberry; rugged phones designed for the worksite like the Rugby, or phones that you can use facial recognition and scroll with the wave of your hand – Mobilekorner has it all.

One area that Mobilekorner does not mess around is when it comes to their service plan. They are a proud Bell authorized dealer. “Bell was first on the scene so they have the best towers, the furthest range; with the strongest, most reliable signals.” They also have the fastest LTE network which now reaches speeds of up to 150 MB! With over 6,000 hotspots across Canada, Bell also has the largest free Wi-Fi network in the country.

Will all of this superior service and quality come at a superior price? Suprisingly, no. The staff at Mobilekorner give clients the best bang for their buck. “With flexible rate plans and features, we are very competitive and can always match or beat or competitor’s pricing.”

Phil hails from a suburb of Beijing named Ren Qiu. He came to Canada in 2007 to study high school in Squamish. He next moved to Vancouver and attended Simon Fraser University. Phil loves snowboarding, swimming, hiking and reading. He also loves keeping up with the latest technology and helping people with their cell phone problems.

Philip loves helping people with their cell phone problems.

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The Seniors Connection

H e l p i n g s e n i o r s l i v e w e l l i n R e n f r e w - C o l l i n g w o o d

Renfrew Collingwood Better at Home is currently seeking experienced housekeepers who speak Cantonese. Please phone 604-435-0375 for more information.

Community lunch a huge success The ever-popular Collingwood Neighbourhood House Community Christmas Lunch sold out in two hours this year! Janet Lee did a wonderful job as the afternoon host. More than 100 community members joined in for a fabulous turkey dinner cooked by the very talented Najia Elacel and her team of helpful kitchen elves. Barry Londry made a fantastic batch of hot apple cider.

Daniel Louie, from the Urban Village Church, and Angus Chan, from the Collingwood Baptist Church, provided outstanding musical talent and prompted the most successful sing-a-long CNH has ever had! The crowd was serenaded with two performances: the Collingwood Towers Seniors Literacy Group, who spent weeks learning and preparing for “Deck the Halls” and “The Christmas Song” solo from emerging singing

Two-part legal workshop coming up

The Seniors Wellness Group at Collingwood Neighbourhood House had a lot of fun in the month of January with a lively Chinese New Year celebration with great food and beautiful dancing, and an interactive discussion on interculturalism with Alden Habacon, director of intercultural understanding strategy development for the University of B.C. There’s lots of buzz about doing more activities that bring people with different backgrounds together. It turns out no matter where in the world we were born, most of us love music, dancing,and food!

The Seniors Wellness Group gets a bit more serious in February and March with a two-part legal workshop. Part 1 will be Monday, February 17, 1:15 to 3:00 pm, when we welcome a representative from the BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support for a presentation on powers of attorney, joint bank accounts and representation agreements. The 60- to 90-minute workshop provides older adults with information to protect their finances, recognize and respond to financial abuse, and to access resources for further assistance. Part 2 will be Monday, March 10, 1:15 to 3:00 pm, when we are visited by Stephen Miller, a lawyer from Stephen M. Miller Law Corporation. Stephen will explain the new Wills Estates and Succession Act and answer any legal questions that arise during part 1 and require a lawyer’s perspective.

Please register for the February 17 and/or March 10 sessions at CNH reception or by calling 604-435-0323. For any questions, ideas or transportation requests, please call seniors program coordinator Kat Cureton at 604-435-0323 ext. 227, or email [email protected].

sensation Jason Hsieh, who was joined by Peter Greenwell from CNH on the saxophone.

None of this would have been possible without all of the volunteers and community organizations who donated time, food and money to make this happen. We would like to send sincere thanks to the following people and organizations: Panaderia Latina Bakery, Bamboo Café, our local Safeway on Kingsway and Tyne, Costco downtown Vancouver, the Renfrew Collingwood Food Institute, Ken and Annabelle, Hoo Yee Ching, Ann Rivard, Mr. Furey, Ryan and the ABE students, Stephanie Lim and the Collingwood Towers Seniors Literacy Group, as well as all the people mentioned in this article. Thank you!

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

Dear Neighbors,

Happy Lunar New Year – 2013 Year of the HorseGung Hey Fat Choy! Happy New Year! I would like to wish everyone great health, prosperity and happiness on this year of the Horse.

Seniors’ Health and Wellness Fair – April 2rd Each year I am proud to host a Seniors’ Health and Wellness Fair and I am pleased to invite all seniors and their families to attend the seventh annual fair on April 2rd at Renfrew Park Community Centre. Doors will open at 10 am. There will be over 20 exhibitors providing information on issues such as heart and stroke, arthritis, diabetes and more. The day is always informative and fun. All participants receive a free, healthy lunch.

Spring Legislative SessionThe spring session of the BC Legislature will begin on February 11th, with the Speech from the Throne, followed by the introduction of the government’s 2014 Budget on February 18th. I am always happy to hear your thoughts and ideas for legislation and would welcome any suggestions you may have for the spring session.

Apply Now for Neighbourhood Small Grants I am pleased to have the opportunity to share information about our own Collingwood program to increase the amount of diverse, community events happening in our community. Through the Neighbourhood Small Grants Program, any resident can apply for and receive $50-$500 of funding to host a community event! This funding can be put towards block parties, community gardens, roadside planters, a neighborhood street hockey tournament, cooking classes, mural painting supplies, or anything other ideas you have to brighten up our community!

Apply online at http://www.neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca/south-vancouver or pick up a form at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce St. (the corner of Joyce and Euclid).

Mandarin and Cantonese CaseworkerI am pleased to welcome back Idy Leung to our office. My Constituency Assistant, Que Tran Hoang will be taking some time off to care for her newly born second child. In the interim, Idy will be providing assistance in Cantonese and Mandarin between the hours of 11:00am and 1:00pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Welcome, Idy!

Free Public Access ComputerI have met with several constituents who have expressed difficulty accessing a computer, necessary for social assistance applications, BC Housing files, resume creation, and so much more. As such, I have set up a public computer in my constituency office with quick links to Ministry websites, government services, and community resources. All constituents are welcome to drop by during our office hours (Monday to Thursday from 9am to 4pm or on Friday by appointment). My Constituency Assistants are happy to help with any difficulty.

13RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2014

When Karen Donauer volunteered for the first time in the Community Lunch Program at Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH), she was shy and didn’t know what to say to others. “It was strange to me.”

Karen has now been volunteering at CNH for the past three years. Her presence always lights up the kitchen. On a Tuesday lunch in January, Karen comes in with a beaming smile and her contagious friendliness. “Hi Najia how are you? I like you. Hi Barry! You are my helpful boss!” She washes her hands, whips on her apron and gloves, and helps set up before the busy lunch rush. She happily greets lunch patrons, always introduces herself with a smile and asks how they are doing.

Najia Elacel, the community cook at CNH, noted, “At first, Karen used to be nervous and not talk at all. Now she loves to start a conversation, is more open to others and will not hesitate to make new friends. She has learned to work with others and is sincerely dedicated in her volunteer role.”

From working with Karen, Najia has discovered what a huge heart Karen has. “She has the utmost compassion and is very intuitive about other’s feelings. When she knows I am feeling sad she will talk to me heart to heart and tell me how much she cares for me and how loved I am.”

Barry Londry, the chef famous for his Tuesday soups, says, “She is a very nice person. When

she volunteers at CNH she has become not only more outgoing and expressive, but also more open to the community. She’s very proud of her volunteering role at CNH and we are very grateful to have her with us. She loves to joke that she’s my second memory; she remembers everything, and reminds me when I am a little forgetful. ”

When Karen is not volunteering at CNH she plays bowling (both 5 and 10 pin) and floor hockey and also commits her time to the Richmond Animal Protection Society. She likes to hang out at the Bamboo Café and take walks around the neighbourhood.

The Community Lunch Program

at Collingwood Neighbourhood House is on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:00 noon. The cost for a senior’s lunch is $5.00, which includes an entrée, salad, dessert, coffee and tea. You can find the monthly menu in the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News (see page 14) or pick one up at reception at CNH. We would love you to drop by the lunch and chat with other participants and learn about our many other community programs at CNH.

For any questions, ideas, or transportation requests, please call seniors program coordinator Kat Cureton at 604-435-0323 extension 227, or email [email protected].

Introducing RCC News’ Seniors Connection coordinator

The Renfrew-Collingwood Community News is thrilled to announce that Loretta Houben has joined its team as its volunteer coordinator of the Seniors Connection page. You already know Loretta for her fascinating series of family tree articles. A long-time resident of the Collingwood neighbourhood, Loretta’s other articles include one about herself and the doll Chatty Cathy both turning 50 (September 2010 issue) and “A Prairie boy arrives in the big city: Remembering Christmases of long ago” (December 2011 issue).

If you have any story ideas for the Seniors Connection section, please feel free to email Loretta Houben at [email protected]. Welcome, Loretta, to the team!

Loretta Houben and her dad, who is holding the story of his family moving to Vancouver in 1941.

Karen Donauer: volunteer superstar by Crecien Bencio

Karen Donauer and Renfrew-Collingwood Food Security coordinator Stephanie Lim enjoy a laugh in the kitchen.

14

This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House

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

COMMUNITY LUNCHCollingwood Neighbourhood House invites you to lunch every Tuesday and Thursday. Please note that seniors are served at 12 noon; others are served at 12:10 pm. Full meal prices are $6.25 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for students and $3.25 for children under 12. Items can be purchased a la carte or “to go.”

February menu 2014

Tues 04Sweet and sour soup, Satay (peanut sauce) chicken or tofu in pita bread, Salad, Sesame cookie

Thurs 06Turkey shepherd’s pie (vegetarian option), Salad, Ginger cookie

Tues 11Corn chowder, Pepperoni or vegetarian pizza, Salad, Chocolate cake

Thurs 13Cabbage roll (meat or vegetarian), Salad, Pecan tart

Tues 18Tomato lentil soup, Tuna salad sandwich, Salad, Shortbread cookie

Thurs 20Chicken wings/vegetarian sausage, Roasted yam, Salad, Mango pudding

Tues 25Mushroom barley soup, Quiche (veggie/ham), Salad, Walnut cookie


2014 CNH brochure released

Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) offers a number of exciting recreation programs for children. Here are three new programs starting up at CNH this year.

Open Gym This program encourages children to explore various types of sports and expand their interest in sports and minor games. Activities vary from the most popular sports such as soccer, basketball and floor hockey, to fun minor games such as capture the flag, tag, four-corner sports, California kickball etc. Ages 9 to 12. Mondays, 4 – 5:30 pm$48 for 10 classes. Pre-registration is required. No class Feb 10

BatonBaton is a combination of dance, gymnastics and twirling a baton. Learn how to twirl a baton, a new skill! With baton twirling you work on hand-eye coordination and overall body coordination while having fun. Please note that the cost of the program does not include the baton. Ages 7 to 12. Saturdays, 11:45 am to 12:30 pm$45 for 10 sessions. Pre-registration is required.

BasketballMake new friends while practicing and learning basketball skills! Fun, skills development and learning positive values such as teamwork, cooperation and respect are central to this program.Ages 9 to 12. Wednesdays, 4:50 pm – 5:50 pm.$45 for 10 sessions. Pre-registration required.

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

New children’s recreation programs launched

CNH has released its new brochure showing all of the opportunities to get active and get involved at CNH. Pick up your copy or find it online today!

The publication outlines all of the services, programs and initiatives offered through CNH. The neighbourhood house offers recreation, family and community, youth, child care, seniors and adult programs and services. CNH offers child care for infants, toddlers, children aged 3-5 and for children who need before and after-school care.

There are also many arts and cultural activities and events, opportunities for community engagement and information about volunteering –at CNH, in a program or on a committee-- too. There are free services for new immigrants, such as English classes or personalized help to get settled in Canada.

Need help and not sure how to access it?

CNH has staff and volunteers who can offer assistance and information for free, in a variety of different languages.

CNH also offers meeting rooms, a kitchen and a gym to rent. A children’s party package includes space rental, a leader and activities.

CNH offers seasonal computer courses “on demand”; call CNH to express an interest. Past courses have included, “Fix Your Own PC” and “Microsoft Word and Excel”, for example. It also offers a résumé typing service.

To view the brochure online go to http://www.cnh.bc.ca/programs/. It is available in English, Chinese and Spanish.

To pick up a copy of the brochure visit: CNH, 5288 Joyce StreetBamboo Café, 5103 Joyce StreetCollingwood Community Policing Centre, 5160 Joyce StreetOffice of Don Davies, MP 2951 KingswayOffice of Adrian Dix, MLA 5022 Joyce StreetFormosa Academy, 5621 Killarney StreetCollingwood Library, 2985 KingswayRenfrew Library, 2969 E. 22nd AvenueRenfrew Park Community Centre, 2929 E. 22nd AvenueEvergreen Community Health Centre, 3425 Crowley Drive (at Joyce Street)

For more information please call CNH at 604-435-0323.

15RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS February 2014RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Licensed Preschool There are spaces available starting February 2014 Please call 604 257 8391 for more information. Hatha Yoga - Beginner I (19+yrs) Hisae McMichael Thu 8:30-9:30pm Feb 13-Mar 13 $37.50/5 sess Hatha Yoga - Beginner II (19+yrs) Hisae McMichaelThu 7:00-8:15pm Feb 13-Mar 13 $46.25/5 sess Sa 9:15-10:30am Feb 15-Mar 15 $37/4 sess

For our full listing of programs check out our website or drop by and pick up a brochure. GST included.

Registration has now started. Register early so you don’t miss out.

Hatha Flow Yoga (19+yrs) Ana Yu Wed 5:40-6:50pm Feb 12-Mar 12 $40/5 sess

Yogalates (19+yrs) Espirito Santo Mauricio 6:00-7:00pm Feb 18-Mar 18 $40/5 sess Vegetarian Cookery (55+yrs) Fatima Kheraj Vegetarian food is no longer the challenging option that it used to be – now it’s easy being green. Creating exciting vegetarian reci-pes is a breeze. Wed 1:00-3:00pm Feb 19-Mar 5 $5/3 sess

Saturday, February 8th

12:30-3:00pm Free

Come celebrate Family Day at the centre. Join us for an afternoon of family fun.

We’ll have games, crafts, face painting, balloon animals and the bouncy castle.

Sweetheart Luncheon (55+yrs) Wed 12:00-3:00pm Feb 12 $9/person Fairmont Empress Afternoon Tea (55+yrs) Thu 6:45am-8:00pm Feb 27 $125/person

Wibit Inflatable Days: Saturday February 8, 2014 3:00pm–5:00pm Come and join in the fun! *Regular admission rates apply

Wellness Workshops with Alicia (19+yrs) Combo discount available for 4 workshops $50/4 sessions

Eat, Cook, Learn - Simple Vegetarian Wed 7:00-9:00pm Feb 5 $50/4 sess or $15/1 sess Meal Planning for Health & Weight Loss Wed 7:00-9:00pm Feb 12 $50/4 sess or $15/1 sess Cleansing for Health & Weight Loss Wed 7:00-9:00pm Feb 19 $50/4 sess or $15/1 sess DIY Home and Body Products Wed 7:00-9:00pm Feb 26 $50/4 sess or $15/1 sess Tue 12:30-2:30pm Mar 4 $50/4 sess or $15/1 sess

Sun, Feb 9 Mon, Feb 10

Pool 1:00pm-5:00pm 1:00pm-5:00pm

Fitness Centre 1:00pm-5:00pm 1:00pm-5:00pm

Centre Area 11:00am-6:00pm Closed

What: An early literacy program for male caregivers and babiesWhen: Saturday January 18 – March 8, 2014 3:30-4:30pmWhere: Renfrew Library 2969 E. 22nd Ave. 604-257-8705Who: For babies 0-18 months and their male caregivers

Registration is required. Space is limited. Please register by phone or in person at Renfrew Library

Programs at the Collingwood Branch Library 2985 KingswayChildren’s programs

There are lots of free kids’ and family-friendly programs at the Collingwood Branch library.

Saturday Afternoon Family Board Games – drop in• All the best board games and puzzles for the whole family. Everyone can join in the fun!Every Saturday afternoon starting 11 Jan., 2:00pm onwards

Chinese Lunar New Year Celebration – by registration• Welcome the Chinese New Year with a story and a traditional lantern craft. A program for children aged 7-12 yrs. Please note children under 8 years must be accompanied by a guardian.Friday afternoon, 31 Jan., 2:00 – 3:00pm (Professional Development Day!)

Family Literacy Week – drop-in • A week of word games and language fun promotes literacy in the family.28 Jan. – 1 Feb. drop in any time to join the fun.

Lego Block Party – drop in• Express your creativity with Lego! A program for children aged 5-12 yrs. Lego provided (and Duplo for smaller hands). Please note children under 8 yrs. must be accompanied by a guardian. Tuesday evening, 4 Feb.,7:00 – 8:00pm

And our regular programs continue, too…

Family Storytime • Stories, rhymes and songs for the whole familyThursday mornings, until 6 Mar., 10:30-11:00

Babytime• Songs, rhymes, lap play and books for babyThursday mornings, until 6 Mar., 11:30-12:00

Adult programs

ESL Book Club – by registration• Enjoy practising your English conversation and reading skills in a supportive environment while

learning about culture and meeting new people. This program is most suitable for intermediate speakers.Tuesday Jan 21, Feb 18, Mar 18, Apr 15, 7:00 – 8:00pm

Chinese Internet and Computer Basics – by registration• This course will be conducted in Cantonese and co-sponsored by MOSAIC. • Come and join us for this 5-session hands-on classes. • Get comfortable with using a computer keyboard, and get an overview of basic computer functions.• Learn about what’s available on the Internet and how to find it.• For more information and to register, please call MOSAIC at 604 254-9626Feb 12, 19, 26, Mar 5, 12, 9:00 – 10:30am


Are you part of Generation Squeeze? Thoughts to chew on as BC celebrates Family Day, February 10

Squeezed between lower incomes and higher costs for housing, tuition, child care and saving for retirement?

You are not alone. Young families are squeezed on all sides. Today’s young mothers and fathers need to work harder and longer than did

their parents. Many are struggling just to survive.

Generation Squeeze (www.gensqueeze.ca), founded by Paul Kershaw, PhD, Human Early Learning Partnership (HELP) at the University of B.C., is a campaign that aims to help young families.

How young families have fallen behindBetween 1976 and 1980 the median family household income in B.C. was $65,360. About 30 years later from 2005 to 2009 it was $68,580. But in 1976 there were only 54 percent of women in the labour force and in 2010 that number has climbed to 82 percent of women in

the labour force. This means that it now takes two earners to make almost the same as one earner did 30 years ago.

Since two earners barely bring home today what one breadwinner did in the 1970s, we’ve gone from 40-hour work weeks to closer to 80 hours. The result? The generation raising young children is squeezed for time at home.

Young people are also squeezed for income because housing prices are nearly double, even though young people often live in condos or trade yards for long commutes. Despite devoting more time to the labour market, the generation raising young children is squeezed for income because the cost of housing accelerated far faster than young families’ earnings.

And they are squeezed for services like child care. The change in the labour force means the generation raising young children is squeezed for services like child care that will help them balance successfully raising a family with earning a living. That’s why the Coalition of Child Care Advocates and the Early Childhood Educators of BC have proposed the $10/day Child Care Plan, so families can access affordable, quality child care.

Today, younger Canadians work and study more to have less. Their earnings have dropped by 11 percent since 1976, even though they are twice as likely to have post-secondary education.

The squeeze tightens when starting a family. Families can lose up to $15,000 in household income after their baby is born, even with parental leave benefits.

To find solutions and what you can do to help, go to www.gensqueeze.ca.

Renfrew-Collingwood Community News, February 2014

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