December 2013
COMMUNITY NEWS
RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com
Helping our fellow kababayans in the Philippines Max’s Restaurant raises funds for victims of typhoon Haiyan
by Faye Nalicat-Auyong with Julie Cheng Renfrew-Collingwood is home to many people from the Philippines. They are our fellow kababayans—our “friends and family from the same town.” “Our hearts and prayers go to all the victims of the typhoon. Words are not enough to comfort the heartaches and pains of those affected by this calamity,” says Catalina Estrada, one of the managing directors of Max’s Restaurant Cuisine of the Philippines located at 3546 Kingsway. Max’s Restaurant in Renfrew-Collingwood and all of Max’s 10 other locations across North America pledge to donate $1 for every whole Max’s Fried chicken sold. This is Max’s Project Hope – Be Strong Philippines, to help rebuild lives of those affected by typhoon Haiyan (also called typhoon Yolanda). All proceeds will be donated to the Philippine Red Cross. Robert Baxter and one-year-old son Liam gladly make a donation to the Pillar of Hope campaign at Max’s Restaurant. Photo by Julie Cheng
In addition to their North American campaign, Max’s is running a local campaign called the Pillar of Hope. You can donate $2 or $5 and put your name on the pillar. “We hope to fill the entire pillar and another wall with donations,” says Cecile Pratt, another managing director. “It’s nice to see people donating,” she adds. “It doesn’t matter how much. Everything helps.”
Photo: PoYang
A local group of volunteers has organized Zumba for the Philippines, at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, Sunday, December 8th, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. All the funds collected will go to the Red Cross. You can find all the details about the event on this Zumba event page https://www.facebook.com/events/609694295743017/?r ef=22events/609694295743017/?ref=22
“We hope this pledge, no matter how small, will help our kababayans,” says Catalina.
The Collingwood Neighbourhood House has a jar for spare change at the reception desk at 5288 Joyce Street. They are also holding daily bake sales Monday to Friday 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Max has also donated raffle prizes and gift certificates in support of Philippines relief fundraisers. Many community leaders and Filipino associations in Canada have started fundraising events, including the Barangay NorthVan Filipino Community Centre and the Surrey Independence Day Council. Continued on page 3
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December 2013
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Collingwood Village Artisan Market by Esther Yuen The Renfew-Collingwood Multicultural Artists’ Network (RCMAN) has officially changed the name of their annual Winter Craft Fair to Collingwood Village Artisan Market. This family- and neighbourhood-oriented event is free-of-charge, features 25 local artisan vendors and will take place at Collingwood Neighbourhood House on Saturday, December 7th. In addition to the name change, the Collingwood Village Artisan Market will introduce craft demonstrations by local artists. The name change—and especially the addition of the word “Village”—reflects the nature of the vendors and visitors, who are primarily from RenfrewCollingwood. The word “market” stays true to the original purposes of the craft fair, which is to provide space for artisans to sell their work to customers.
Encouraging neighbourhood connections is not something that’s new to the Collingwood Neighbourhood House, but it’s the first time that RCMAN has emphasized community-building in the context of their winter craft market. “Community members have to have more bonding experiences,” says Yoko Tomita, coordinator of the Village Artisan Market and RCMAN. She’s hoping that the Collingwood Village Artisan Market will attract even more people from Renfrew-Collingwood, and that they may get to know their neighbours better. “When Visitors to the craft fair will find local crafts, including scarves, jewellery and people start thinking more about edible treats. Photo courtesy of Yoko Tomita community,” continues Yoko, their craft-making skills. They annual fair, the Collingwood Village “Communities become stronger include Cun Yan, a Chinese Artisan Market will also incorporate and people care more about each calligrapher, Siobhan Barker, an a new paper snowflake-making other.” African textile artist and storyteller, station geared toward children, as and Petrona Garcia, a Mayan well as a new gingerbread house One of the ways in which Yoko freedom weaver. Yoko encourages raffle draw prize created by Nadja wanted to build connections all the craft fair visitors to engage in from the Renfrew-Collingwood Food between neighbours was to feature conversation with the vendors, and Security Institute and Collingwood three local artisans to demonstrate discover their rich pasts. Neighborhood House volunteers. As per tradition though, Santa Claus While the new craft demonstrations will be on site to entertain and take are a significant addition to this photos with the kids, and local performers, including puppeteers and Chinese dancers, will showcase their talents on the main stage. The Collingwood Village Artisan Market takes place Saturday, December 7th in the Collingwood Neighbourhood House gymnasium, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Anyone with questions about the event can contact Yoko at rcmancraftfair@ gmail.com.
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Helping our fellow kababayans in the Philippines, Continued from page 1 Typhoon Yolanda is already being called the most powerful storm recorded in history, hitting the Philippines with winds of 235 mph on Friday, November 8, 2013.
Ways to get involved in Renfrew-Collingwood Every bit helps
The Canadian government has said that it will match donations to registered Canadian charitable organizations for funds targeted to Philippines relief. That means every dollar we give to registered Canadian charities will be doubled by the federal government.
As of November 18, reported death toll stands at 3,982 with another 1,602 missing, according to CNN. Philippine Authorities estimated that at least 9.7 million people in 41 provinces were affected. The United Nations estimated that up to four million people were displaced. The restaurant chain has suffered its own losses. Their Max’s Restaurant in the city of Tacloban— the major area hit—was completely swept away. The fundraisers at Max’s in Vancouver will run until December 31, 2013. Proceeds will go toward ongoing recovery and rehabilitation of affected areas.
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December 2013
The folks at Panaderia Latina Bakery (at 4906 Joyce and Wellington) has organized with a Filipino friend to collect donations of non-perishable foods, gently used clothes and water at the bakery. As a thank you, your name will be entered into a draw to win a free cake. The Collingwood Neighbourhood House has a jar for spare change at the reception desk at 5288 Joyce Street. They are also
holding daily bake sales Monday to Friday 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The 5th Annual Collingwood Village Artisans’ Market on Saturday, December 7th from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm will be fundraising for typhoon victims. See page 2 for more details on the market. A local group of volunteers has organized Zumba for the Philippines, at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, Sunday, December 8th, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. All the funds go to the Red Cross. You can find all the details about the event on this Zumba event page https:// www.facebook.com/events/609 694295743017/?ref=22events/ 609694295743017/?ref=22
For more details, call 604-435-3505 or email maxs.vancouver@maxschicken. com.
performance dates: dec 6,13 @ 7:30pm dec 7,8,14,15 @ 3:00pm and 7:00pm For tickets and information, please visit www.vancouversingingchristmastree.com facebook.com/VancouverSingingChristmasTree
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December 2013
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Your family tree photo mysteries COMMUNITY NEWS The mission of this non-profit publication is to provide the residents, businesses and organizations of Renfrew/Collingwood with a medium for community communication. Paul Reid: staff writer and layout coordinator Lisa Symons: sales and distribution coordinator Julie Cheng: editorial coordinator Contributors: Ricardo CernaKatherine FollisLoretta HoubenSterling JamesPeter KwongFaye Nalicat-AuyongStill Moon Arts SocietyVincent VezinaEsther Yuen
We want to hear from you! Yes, You! Send comments, community events, press releases by regular post, fax or e-mail. Suggestions for improving the paper are welcome. We welcome appropriate, unsolicited editorial submissions if accompanied by the author’s real name, address and telephone number. The author should retain the original as we cannot return submissions without prior agreement nor does submission guarantee publication. We reserve the right to make editorial changes.
Next submission deadline: Dec. 5 The Renfrew/Collingwood Community News is an initiative of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH).
Yo u C a n F i n d t h e RC Community News @ Libraries, Collingwood Neighbourhood House, Renfrew Park Community Centre, The Italian Cultural Centre, Collingwood Policing Office, other organizations, religious institutions, schools, laundromats, Starbucks, Rona, Superstore, Canadian Tire, Walmart, London Drugs and Safeway coffee shops, restaurants, markets, corner stores, other businesses, and coffee tables all over Renfrew-Collingwood.
Contact the RCCNews Phone: 604-435-0323 extension 261 Fax: 604-451-1191 Editorial: rccnews-editorial@cnh.bc.ca Advertising: Phone Lisa Symons at 604.435.0323 email: rccnews-sales@cnh.bc.ca Renfrew/Collingwood Community News Collingwood Neighbourhood House 5288 Joyce Street Vancouver, BC V5R 6C9
They say one picture is worth a thousand words. I’m sure many of you have dozens if not hundreds of old forgotten photos sitting in shoe boxes or, worse yet, stuck into those old sticky photo binders from the 1970s to 1980s era. In the interests of searching for family clues, it is worth your while to dig out those boxes or binders, and sort them into year order for further investigation.
by Loretta Houben
name of the studio is stamped in a lower corner of the photo.
By looking online, you can often locate the name and location of the studio, and gather more clues from there. For example, when my paternal grandma died in 2004, her photos were split up among the family members, and I scanned one into my computer before my To some of you it may seem hilarious uncle took it for his collection. that the common and accepted way It showed my dad’s father with to take photos was with a camera that his two brothers. (Please see used film which had to be processed photo included with this article.) at a photo lab. The usual wait time Unfortunately I scanned at a low before you actually saw your photos resolution, and I’m unable to was from three days to a week. read the name on the Navy cap my great uncle is wearing. The Way back in 1979 I bought my first original photo is now missing, camera. I had my photos developed but clues are still on this photo. The Williams brothers. Photo courtesy of at a drugstore near Kingsway and Grandma always wrote people’s Loretta Houben Earles Street, as London Drugs at names right on the photo, which is Wessex wasn’t in business yet. I a little irritating but comes in handy a wound in his leg while fighting in Salonika Greece in February would wait anxiously for one week to 80 years later! 1917 where he is also buried. Just pass, then pick up my paper envelope containing a total of 20 photos and “The Williams Brothers” are written by tracing the name “Blaenau Ffestiniog” online I found all this hope they all turned out. The price underneath the young men, with information. (http://penmon. of film and paper photos was rather their first names above their heads. org/page69.htm now includes my expensive, so my paper envelopes The name of the studio is on the great uncle’s WWI history, as well were few and far between. left hand side, with the address as a great deal of information on on the right hand side, a common Blaenau Ffestiniog) Times have changed, and now feature of studio portraits. I was it seems that everyone is a fascinated to see the name “Blaenau Recently I hunted down another photographer with Ffestiniog” as I clue regarding my great uncle Bob, the modern use of remember being “Grandma always the one in the middle of the picture. cellphones, with told that Grandpa wrote people’s The insignia on his sleeve meant our photos flooding was born in Cardiff, he was a stoker on board ship. His Facebook and all other names right on the Wales. From this uniform denotes he was a member types of social media. photo, which is a photo I realized of the Royal Navy and HMS appears So what should we he and his siblings on his cap but I can’t make out the search for in those old little irritating but lived in Blaenau, rest of the name. paper photos, and how comes in handy 80 which is in North do we organize them Wales near years later!” There are magazines and books so family mysteries are Snowdonia. From written which will also help you hopefully solved and an old postcard figure out clues in your old photos, passed on to the next generation? in my collection, and by looking such as the decade in which the online via Google search engine, I picture was taken. Check out Begin with the oldest photos you deduced the photo studio was close have. A few years ago I dug through to where my grandpa was born, and your local library for help. It’s a fascinating study, and I wish you all old boxes of photos in my dad’s where he later lived before moving the best in your hunt to put faces to collection. Unfortunately, most of to Canada. your family tree names! them had no dates written on the back. Many people assume they will One thing led to another and I Next month’s installment will focus live forever and that everyone will found a fantastic website dedicated on how to digitize your photos and of course know who Uncle Fred is to veterans who had lived in save them in various formats for without any written confirmation. Blaenau Ffestiniog. By contacting future generations to enjoy. The first thing to do is to confirm the author of the website “Penmon. who the faces belong to and write org” I gathered more clues. This Loretta Houben has always been the names on the back in pencil year I actually located a beautiful fascinated with old photos, or an archival pen. If no one is left photo of my great uncle, William especially ones which come to who remembers the names in the Williams’ grave site. It turned out light unexpectedly and she enjoys photo, look for other clues. If you are that he was a private in the Royal nothing better than hunting for clues fortunate, you will have some studio Welch Fusiliers, and he died of revealed in them. photos in your family collection. The
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Between the lines
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December 2013
by Paul Reid
A seasonably relevant picture from our local past—this picture was taken of men skating on our nearby Trout Lake around 1890. Photo Credit: 1890s – Men Skating at Trout Lake. Archives item#: M-3-11.3 I highly doubt it will be cold enough this year to do the same—a shame. I can remember in my early days going skating every year on some frozen farmer’s field. My family lived in North Delta, so the place we went was not too far away—close to East Delta Hall. As the years went past, though, we did so less and less as water in the fields was freezing over less often. I guess it still does from time to time—but I don’t know if anyone still makes the practice of going. There used to be lots of people so it was a fun Christmas-time thing to do. Free, too! Of course, you had to watch out for thin ice, grass, dirt and holes. But nothing could really beat that wonderful sensation of being out in the cold night air, sliding around under the stars, surrounded by nature. So this is one sign to me that it’s been heating up over the years—no more skating on the fields. Go back another 40 or 50 years and my mom says that it was so cold that the Fraser River would freeze solid enough that they could skate from where she lived in Mission to New Westminster! I watched a movie on Netflix recently called Chasing Ice. I highly recommend this documentary of a man, environmental photographer James Balog, who has been filming the difference in the polar caps as the ice melts at an accelerated pace. His photos prove that the ice is melting 10 times faster in the past decade than in the past 100 years.
EYE CARE CENTRE
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
December 2013
Chum Salmon, Stories, Art and Tea Parties! The team at Still Moon Arts has been busy running down to Still Creek to see the chum salmon spawning again in the stream just north of Grandview Highway at Natal and Cornett. Last year was the first time they returned in 80 years and we are so glad they are back! It is inspiring and we hope as we continue to improve the health of the stream that one day the salmon will be spawning in Renfrew Park and Renfrew Ravine, too.
or recent, we’d love to hear them. Please contact us a mail@stillmoon. org and look for our story collecting and art events that will happen in the new year.
This year we are collecting the community’s stories to create a Still Creek Stories book and art project. If you have stories and memories of Still Creek, old
Carmen Rosen, artistic director of Still Moon Arts Society, is delighted to see that chum salmon have returned to Still Creek.
Please join us at our Terribly Terrific Tea Party on Thursday, December 5, 5:00 to7:30pm, Slocan Park Fieldhouse, by the 29th Avenue Skytrain. Dress up, wear a fancy hat, enjoy tea treats, music, tea dances, tea chats and support the work of Still Moon Arts. $15, rsvp at mail@stillmoon.org
Renfrew / Collingwood
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North
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Broadway
E.41st Ave.
Renfrew St.
Collingwood Insurance Ph: 604.438.9888
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Kingsway F
London Square Dental Centre #220 3340 Kingsway Ph: 604.435.4545
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5750 Tyne Street
Jo yc eS t.
Ru pe rt St.
E.33rd Ave.
2066 Kingsway
E.22nd Ave.
E.29th Ave.
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The Tipper Restaurant Ph: 604.873.1010
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Ea rle sS t.
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Nanaimo St.
116 - 2800 E 1st Ave.
Boundary Rd.
1st Avenue Dental Group Ph: 604.254.5040
Slocan St.
Grandview Hwy.
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Renfrew Park Community Centre 2929 E22nd. Ave. Ph: 604.257.8388
Joyce Hair Design Ph: 604.451.7680
5156 Joyce St.
Papa John’s Pizza Ph: 604.310.PAPA
#300-3340 Kingsway
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Get involved in Renfrew-Collingwood Address the roots of poverty
Still Creek Stories
Did you know B.C. has had the highest poverty rate in Canada for the last 13 years? And, did you know this could be easily fixed through a comprehensive Poverty Reduction Plan? Join the Poverty Reduction Action Committee (PRAC) and help make it happen!
Story collecting and art events in the new year! Still Moon Arts Society is collecting the community’s stories to create a Still Creek Stories book and art project. If you have stories and memories of Still Creek, old or recent, we’d love to hear them. Please contact mail@stillmoon.org and look for story collecting and art events in the new year.
PRAC meetings happen once a month, and are free and open to everyone. At the meetings you have the opportunity to learn about the Poverty Reduction Coalition’s work, connect with like-minded folks, and access resources to gain (or develop) experience in community organizing. This is your chance to help address poverty in B.C. at its roots. People of all ages are welcome. Refreshments are provided. For more information, visit bcpovertyreduction.ca/prac or call 604-801-5121, ext 243.
Poverty Reduction Action Committee Get Involved and Help Reduce Poverty in BC! For more information contact Trish at trish@bcpovertyreduction.ca
Did you know B.C. has had the highest poverty rate in Canada for the last 13 years? And, did you know this could be easily fixed through a comprehensive Poverty Reduction Plan? Join the Poverty Reduction Action Committee (PRAC) and help make it happen! PRAC meetings happen once a month, and are free and open to everyone. At the meetings you have the opportunity to learn about the Poverty Reduction Coalition’s work, connect with like-minded folks, and access resources to gain (or develop) experience in community organizing. This is your chance to help address poverty in B.C. at its roots. People of all ages are welcome. Refreshments are provided. For more information, visit bcpovertyreduction.ca/prac
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December 2013
Resident: beware of pickpockets Arlindo Valinho lives in the Collingwood area and used to operate a business on Kingsway for 30 years. At age 74, he is very sharp and active. Late September, Arlindo experienced an unfortunate incident at a local store on Grandview Highway that he wanted to share with RCC News readers. “I had just finished getting money from my return at the customer service counter and put my wallet deep into my pocket,” Arlindo recalls. He soon discovered that his wallet was gone and he had no doubt it was stolen. “I’m sure it was a pickpocket,” he says. “Whoever did it was pretty smart.” He didn’t feel a thing. Arlindo contact the police, cancelled his credit cards, got a temporary driver’s license, and got in touch with the store manager, who was “very nice.” There is a happy ending to Arlindo’s story. “My wallet was returned by the post office a few days later. I am very thankful for the post office services.” (Canada Post offers a free, voluntary service in which they return found items to their owners.) Although Arlindo lost the money in his wallet, he was happy to get his ID, credit cards and driver’s license back. “I just want to let people be aware of these things that happen in the area. Now that we’re heading toward Christmas it’s more likely someone else will be a victim again.”
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December 2013
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Collections in Languages Other Than English @ Your Library
by Vincent Vézina
Did you know you could find books and other materials in 15 different languages other than English at the Vancouver Public Library? All branches carry books and other materials in Chinese, but books are also available in French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Persian/Farsi, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese, in some locations. If your local branch does not carry books in the desired languages, not a problem! You can request those books to be sent to whichever branch you want for pickup, at no cost.
appear on the newsstands! You can view today’s paper, or view any archived copy, up to 60 days. All you need is access to a computer, tablet, internet …and a library card! Chinese readers will be pleased to know that Qikan, a full text database of over 150 popular Chinese magazines published in China, offers articles viewable in either traditional or simplified characters. In Renfrew-Collingwood
Newspapers and magazines The online database “Press Display” offers full-page images of newspapers from 92 countries. All are available even before they
The Collingwood Branch offers books, magazines, DVDs, CDs, in Chinese language. This collection of over 6,000 items is fairly big, given the small size of the
library, and accounts for approximately 25% of the whole adult branch collection. And there is a children’s Chinese language collection too! Daily newspapers are also offered in Chinese at this location and are kept for one week: Ming Pao Daily News, Sing Tao Daily, World Journal. Feature films and television series DVDs are available in all 15 languages at Collingwood, as well as in all branches. The Renfrew Branch houses a much larger collection, serving a wider area, and offers books,
magazines, DVDs, CDs, and newspapers in Chinese as well as in Vietnamese and French. For more information, visit us at www.vpl.ca or in any of our 22 branches! Vincent Vézina is a library technician at the Collingwood Branch library located at 2985 Kingsway at Rupert.
THA
COLLINGWOOD
WINTER
NK Y OU EV
ENT PAT RON S& SPO NSO RS!
CARNIVAL SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2013 4 to 8pm*
SAFEWAY PARKING LOT (Tent at Tyne & Kingsway)
FREE HOLIDAY TREATS, SANTA PHOTOS, MAGIC SHOW, MOVIE, BALLOON ARTIST, CAROLLERS & MORE!
BRING FOOD BANK DONATION & WIN PRIZES! *Music, Santa Arrival & Tree Lighting 5pm
More info:
(604) 639-4403 info@shopcollingwood.ca www.shocollingwood.ca
Presented by:
Business Improvement Association
Far Beyond the Grape Wineworks
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
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December 2013
The Best Christmas Ever art and message by Ricardo Cerna
Giving, not getting, brings to full bloom the Christmas spirit. Enemies are forgiven, friends remembered, and God obeyed. The spirit of Christmas illuminates the picture window of the soul, and we look out upon the world’s busy life and become more interested in people than things. To catch the real meaning of the “spirit of Christmas,” we need only drop the last syllable, and it becomes the “spirit of Christ.”
Thank you for supporting the RCC News Many thanks to our many writers, photographers, advertisers and distributors who have helped make 2013 yet another successful year. By helping to share the stories of the wonderful people, events, activities and history of our great little neighbourhood, you build our community and bring people together. Best wishes for a successful and prosperous new year. —The RCC News team
Contributors Agnes Xi Akberet S. Beyene Alexis Seto Alysha To Amy Teng Angela Ho Anthony Seto Ashok Rattan Beth Grayer Brendan Chan Carmen Rosen Cassandra Ly Cathy Wang Claire Fergusson Collingwood Community Policing Centre Crecien Bencio Deanna Cheng Destyni Stevenson Emily Chan Esther Yuen Ewa Jagla Faye Nalicat-Auyong
Heather McCracken Helen Xu INTERactive project Ivy Wang J. Mendoza Janet Lee Jason Hsieh Jie Zheng Jolene Andrew Joyce Gao Julie Cheng Kaitlyn Fung Katherine Follis Kathy Romses Kelly Hui Kitty and Neli Loretta Houben Maggie Yang Marie Manansala Melissa Chungfat Michael Douglas & City of Vancouver Michelle Havixbeck Noreen Ma Patrick Painter Paul Reid Paula Carr Peter Greenwell Peter Kwong Puspa Affandi Rania Hatzioannou Red Sara Ricardo Cerna Richard Yee Rob Howatson Robert F. Edwards Rocelyn Catris Rosanne Lambert Soren Elsay Stephanie Lim Sterling James
Still Moon Arts Society Tessa Tham Tim McMillan Timothy Shay Vincent Vezina Wenhuan Ren
Advertisers 2400 Motel 1st Avenue Dental 1st Avenue Liqour Adrian Dix MLA Alexander Income Tax Banana Grove Candida Dias CASI City Lights Church Collingwood Baptist Church Collingwood Neighborhood House Collingwood Business Improvement Association Collingwood Days Collingwood Insurance Collingwood Law Office Collingwood Seniors Programming Don Davies MLA El Sol De Acapulco Cafe Far Beyond The Grape Fresh Slice Pizza G. Sodhi & Associates Goodyz Dollar Store Greek Festival Green Thumb Theatre Groundworks Construction Supply Harvey’s Furniture HM Tax & Accounting Joyce Hair Design Joyce Way Food Market Kingsway Tax Service
Kung Fu Yes Learning Disabilities Association of Vancouver London Square Dental Centre Montreal Pizza Max’s Restaurant Knight & Day Restaurant Norquay School Oasis Tanning P & D Automotive Pacific Dance Arts Papa John’s Pizza The Poor Italian Restaurant Pyramids Mediterranean Food Ren Zenker Renfrew Park Community Centre See Rite Optical Still Moon Arts Society St. Mary’s School Swan Market Tipper Restaurant Top’s Restaurant Vancouver Aboriginal Child & Family Services Van Ya Restaurant Vegan Pizza House
Distributors London Drugs Safeway Starbucks Shoppers Drug Mart Walmart Canadian Superstore Rona Price Smart Foods Various local businesses, schools, churches, libraries and community centres.
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December 2013
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Making the change from a day program to a community/person-centred experience
by Sterling James
Sterling James is the senior manager at Spectrum Society for Community Living, a local non-profit organization in Renfrew-Collingwood that supports people with disabilities to experience full citizenship and genuine belonging in community. (www.spectrumfriends.ca) He is also a community connector in the Renfrew-Collingwood INTERactive Project. Sterling’s hope for the INTERactive project is to create a more connected and inclusive community with spectrum society. Here Sterling writes about the Community Inclusion program of Spectrum Society and how he works with three individuals to help strenghten community connections in RenfrewCollingwood. Now close your eyes and imagine ... Wait, you can’t close your eyes because you will not be able to read the following. As you start to read, imagine a room with 12 of your peers, and the only reason you are together is that sometime in your past some medical team has given you a label, and just because of that fact you are now with a group of people that you may not want to be with. When the group went out into the community, everyone would be together and experience what was picked for that day. Now spring forward to the present. That program mentioned above has long been dismantled; it was changed from group-centred activities to person-centred activities. Meaning that the individuals set their own goals with what they want to do in their life and in their community. That was almost five years ago now, when I made the transition with my team and our folks out
of Spectrum and into the community. Individual personalities blossomed when they had the chance to be themselves. There are now three of our gang that has joined in with the INTERactive team. These three individuals have amazing outgoing personalities, incredibly friendly and very willing to share their experiences. Each one brings their own gifts with them: D. lives in the Renfrew/ Collingwood neighbourhood and is very physically active with some of the outdoor activities that she has noted in her travels. D. has shared her information with the group.
K. also lives in the neighbourhood and is well known and very active within Collingwood Neighbourhood house with volunteer opportunities. K. has been going around to the businesses along Kingsway and promoting the Tuesday and Thursday lunch program and with some of the INTERactive business cards. K. is like the rest of us; we
enjoy it when we are involved and connected to other people. J. has the most infectious laugh and the one person who always arrives with a smile on her face. J. enjoys greeting people and always says hello to everyone who walks past her. J. and K. hang out together when promoting Collingwood Neighbourhood House activities.
Don Davies, MP Vancouver Kingsway
You’re invited! Holiday Open House Friday, December 6 4 - 7 pm at 2951 Kingsway
(Please bring a non-perishable food item for donation to the food bank) 2951 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5R 5J4 • 604-775-6263 • DonDavies.ca
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
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December 2013
The Seniors Connection
Helping seniors live well in Renfrew-Collingwood
Badminton at any age by Peter Kwong Badminton for adults and seniors is open for drop-in at the multifunctional gymnasium at Collingwood Neighbourhood House every Saturday from 2:30 pm to 4:15 pm. Everyone from beginner to intermediate-advance level are welcome to join and participate in this fast-growing sport and have some fun meeting new friends. For the uninitiated, badminton is a non-contact racquet sport. Participants can choose to play as a single or team up as a double or mixed double. While the exact origin of badminton is unknown today, Canada is proud to be one of the founding members, along with Denmark, England, France, the Netherlands, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland and Wales, of the International
Badminton Federation (IBF) now known as Badminton World Federation established in 1934 to set international governance and standards. Today the sport has gained much prominence with developing Asian countries and has been an Olympic event since 1992. It is also one of the popular competition events at the provincially sponsored annual BC Seniors Games. At Collingwood Neighbourhood house we currently have two standard badminton courts open to the public but can easily be expanded to four to accommodate extra players. Our well-ventilated indoor facilities mean we can play all year around without interruption from weather elements.
Participants can develop aerobic stamina, agility, explosive strength, speed and precision over time. Since it is also a technical sport, senior players can still enjoy badminton for years by leveling the playing field with younger players if he or she mastered some good technical skills. In the current year BC Senior Game 2013, the oldest player on record who is still competing is 91.
Peter Kwong, silver medalist in men single and gold medalist in men’s double age 55-59 in recreational badmintion at the BC Seniors’ Games 2013. Photo courtesy of BC Seniors’ Games
Hence it is never too late to start learning badminton. Racquets and shuttlecocks are provided but players are also welcome to bring their own equipment if desired. As for players in the intermediate and advance level, the Saturday badminton drop-in can be a good
venue to practice and hone your skill with other players. While the rules are the same, players are known to develop many different styles. So whether you are a recreational or competitive player you may be able find someone who will rekindle your old passion and surprise you with new tricks. Over the horizon beyond the Saturday badminton session, there will always be tournament to set your sight onto with continuous practice.
Renfrew Collingwood Better at Home is currently seeking experienced housekeepers who speak Cantonese. Please phone 604-435-0375 for more information.
Peter Kwong is current volunteer coordinator of Collingwood Neighbourhood House Saturday Badminton Drop-in program. He is also a silver medalist in men single and gold medalist in men’s double age 55-59 in recreational badminton at the BC Seniors’Games 2013.
The Collingwood Business Improvement Association (CBIA) is a non-profit Society mandated under the Vancouver Charter and BC Society Act to promote, enhance, support and improve the vitality and economic sustainability of the Collingwood BIA area that includes all commercial properties located on Kingsway between Boundary Road and Rupert Street. The CBIA formed in 2001, there are currently over 280 members and 110 property owners. The board and staff of the Collingwood BIA develop and implement a variety of business building and community enhancement programs on your behalf. They include the Collingwood Guardians, Bike and Foot Patrol; Graffiti Abatement program; Street Clean Team; Street Enhancement (banners, planter boxes, clock tower square, leaf removal, pole lighting); Marketing and Promotions (newspaper ads, Who’s Who, community events, social media). The board of directors are working hard to insure Collingwood street remain clean, safe and viable for business.
The CBIA board of directors Brad Colwell - Owner/Manager Bikram’s Yoga Metrotown 9 years on the CBIA board; current President of the CBIA 10 years in business BIA Interests: To help create a clean, safe and fun area for people to shop, walk around and feel part of the community. Tidbit: Taking care of myself is priority #1which is why I love and teach yoga, so people can take care of themselves. Philip Heming - Owner/General Manager Central Park Business Centre New to the board 27 years in business BIA Interests: Crime Prevention and Jr. BIA Tidbit: Enjoy travelling, surfing and working with clients and fantastic team of staff at Central Park. Favourite book: “When the Lion Feeds” by Wilbur Smith. Favourite movie: “Point Break”. Favourite travel destination: The Kruger Park in South Africa Nav Dardi - Owner/Operator Panago Pizza Collingwood 2 years on the board 13 years in business BIA Interest: Community impact Tidbit: Hobbies, music, watching hockey
Shelley Craig - Store Manager London Drugs 2 years on the board London Drugs opened the doors Nov. 28, 1985 Beautification, safety and crime prevention. It’s important for people to feel safe in our community. Tidbit: Shelley loves gardening. Angela Lam - Branch Manager Vancity – Collingwood 3 years on board as secretary and treasurer 35 years in Collingwood Interest: Crime prevention Tidbit: I have a wonderful husband and 2 children 4 and 7 yrs old. I love to bbq and just mastered a bbq turkey this past Thanksgiving. Stephen Hill - Manager, Vice President, CBIA Starbucks Boundary Plaza 4 years on the board 9 years in Collingwood Interests: Street Enhancement projects Tidbit: Starbuck manager for 11 years and enjoys walks on the beach with his Cavilier King Charles Spaniel named “Pippa” Sikander Visram - Lawyer Sikander Visram Law Corporation On the Board for 7 years 22 years in Collingwood Interests: Safety and crime prevention Tidbit: Lawyer for 31 years. Married and 3 kids in university. Located above the Starbucks at Tyne and Kingsway.
Monita Chan - Owner BM Chan International Cosmetology School 3 years on the board 28 years in Collingwood Interests: Marketing and promotions, business networking Tidbit: She is always in networking mode and likes to help others in their businesses. Beth Hernandez - Life Insurance Agent AJ Insurance Services Ltd. New to the board as an associate member 19 years in Collingwood Interests: Community involvement Tidbit: Volunteer at church and school. Family has formed a Foundation to help families in the Philippines’. She has adopted a son from the Philippines. Angela Evans - Executive Director Collingwood BIA 7 years with the CBIA Interests in the BIA: Street Beautification, Crime Prevention and Safety, Marketing and Promotions, Community Involvement and the Jr BIA. Tidbit: Born and raised in Vancouver, has three children and is fascinated and proud to be a part of the Collingwood neighbourhood experience.
CBIA UPDATES WINTER CARNIVAL AND COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY, NOVEMBER 30TH, 2013 4:00 – 8:00 PM THANK YOU to our wonderful partners and sponsors of the Winter Carnival 2013. - Collingwood Community Policing Centre - Safeway – Starbucks – Abantu Hair – UrbanEarthMed – Westcoast Maritial Arts – Max’s Restaurant – London Drugs – Central Park Business Centre – Virgin Radio – Life Center Church - G & F Financial - Selmak Realty Ltd - Church’s Chicken - Metro Town Pantry Chevron - Pyramid Food Market - Vital Auto - Site Rite Optometry - The UPS Store - Far Beyond the Grape Wineworks.
l WINTER MERCHANT PROMOTIONS DECEMBER 1 – 31ST Do your Christmas shopping in Collingwood and support your local merchants. Local merchants have provided special offers during the month of December. The Jr. BIA will be handing out flyers during the first few weekends in December. There is a QR Code that will link you to SPECIAL COLLINGWOOD BIA MERCHANT SPECIALS. These specials may be viewed and printed for you to use. Check often to see if new specials have been added. Happy Shopping in Collingwood - Let’s keep it LOCAL Click to link to our website and see the specials.
Donations were collected for the Vancouver Food Bank. Thank you to our performers: Norden the Magician, Bent Air Balloons, UpStage Choir and Santa himself.
On half of the Collingwood Business Improvement Association we would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and healthy Happy New Year. Shop Collingwood. It’s good for business!
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*This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Business Improvement Association
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
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December 2013
Families across the province are getting fitter, healthier and happier thanks to MEND A free, local program that give kids and parents the tips and tools they need to live a healthy lifestyle is showing significant results and proving to have a major impact on the lives of participants. MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition … Do it!) is currently registering new participants across British Columbia, including in Vancouver. Please visit www. childhoodobesityfoundation. ca for a list of other cities and towns. “Since joining the MEND program it has opened my mind about my family’s health, fitness and nutrition,” says Sharlot, whose 10-year-old daughter has found success with the MEND program. “It’s been five weeks since the program started and all my friends and family have really noticed the difference this program has made in my life.” In Canada, only seven percent of five to 11 year olds are meeting the Canadian physical activity guidelines for children and youth, while 31 percent are accumulating more than two hours of screen time per day. Some 40 percent of BC youth consume one or more soft drinks per day and 50 percent of Canadian children consume less than five fruit and vegetables per day. In Canada, 20 percent of children are overweight, while 12 percent are obese. MEND is a 10-week program for children ages five to 13, who are working with their families towards achieving a healthy lifestyle and a healthy
weight. MEND offers children and their parents or caregivers group sessions that incorporate a fun mix of interactive family activities, practical demonstrations, games, tips about healthy foods, label reading, and portion sizes and tools for adopting an overall healthier lifestyle. The BC Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA), the Childhood Obesity Foundation and the YMCA of Greater Vancouver are partnering to implement MEND in communities across BC. MEND is hosted by YMCA and BCRPA member recreation centres in participating communities. See the box for a list of Vancouver facilities registering families now for the free, 10-week MEND program beginning in January. Kids who attended previous MEND programs have increased their physical activity, decreased their screen time, and improved their self-esteem. They’ve also increased their understanding of nutrition, and are eating more fruits and vegetables and less sugar sweetened beverages. “With MEND, families and children are empowered to have fun, be healthy and get active,” says Michelle Stilwell, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health for Healthy Living. “Our government is committed to ensuring a safe, healthy future for our children.” “All parents love their children and want them to live a healthy
The following is a paid advertisement by Adrian Dix, MLA for Vancouver/Kingsway Dear Neighbors, Holiday Open House – Saturday, December 14, 11:00 - 2pm Happy Holidays! I am pleased to invite you to
Families across themyprovince areHouse getting Holiday Open on fitter, healthier and happ
Saturday, December 14th, from 11am – 2pm. No RSVP is necessary – feel free to stop by 5022 Joyce St at any point through the day Vancouver, BC – A free, local program that give kids and parents the tips and tools they need sayproving hello and meeta your showing significant resultstoand to have majorneighbors. impact on the lives of participants. M November 8, 2013
it!) is currently registering new participants across British Columbia, including lifestyle in order toNutrition… grow upDo strong please visit www.childhoodobesityfoundation.ca forsnacks a list ofand cities and towns. We will have many festive refreshments and confident,” says Dr. Tom to share. Warshawski, pediatrician andthe MEND program it has opened my mind about my family’s health, fitness an “Since joining Chair of the Childhood whoseObesity 10-year-old daughter has found success with the MEND program. “It’s been five week I look forward to seeing you here! and all my afriends and family have really noticed the difference this program has made in my Foundation. “Maintaining healthy weight is a great indicator Applyoffor5-11 a Legislative Internship! In Canada, only 7 seven percent year olds are meeting the Canadian physical activity of a healthy lifestyle, yet close youth, while 31 percent are accumulating more than two hours of screen time per day. 42 pe to one third of BC’sone children aredrinks perThe or more soft dayBC and 50 percent of Canadian children consume less than five Legislative Internship Program is an either overweight or In obese.” Canada, 20 percent of children are overweight, while 12 percent are obese. educational opportunity for Canadian university
graduates to work in British Columbia’s parliamentary
for children ages 5 to 13, who are working with their families to Bringing MEND to MEND BC isisaa 10-week program system, from January 5th and to June 2015orwith a lifestyle and a healthy weight. MEND offers children their26th, parents caregivers group se part of the Childhood Healthy remuneration of $22,920.00 for 6 months. mix of interactive family activities, practical demonstrations, games, tips about healthy foods Weights Intervention sizesInitiative, and tools for adopting an overall healthier lifestyle. The BC Recreation and Parks Associ which also includesObesity expansion Foundation and the of Greater Vancouver areifpartnering implement MEND BCYMCA residents are eligible to apply they havetoreceived is hosted by YMCA their and BCRPA member recreation centres in participating communitie of ShapedownBC toMEND all regional first Bachelor’s Degree from a Canadian registering families now for the free, 10-week MEND program beginning in January. health authorities and enhanced university with two years prior to the start of the 2015 telehealth supports through program. Kids who attended previous MEND programs have increased their physical activity, decrease Dietitian Services atimproved HealthLinkBC their self-esteem. They’ve also increased their understanding of nutrition, and are and the Physical Activity Line. Apply onlinebeverages. at www.leg.bc.ca/bclip before January vegetables and less sugar sweetened
31, 2014.
“With MEND, families and children are empowered to have fun, be healthy and get active,” s The Childhood Healthy Weights Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health for Healthy Living. “Our government is com Intervention Initiative is funded by Office Open Late on Mondays! healthy future for our children.” the Province of British Columbia. Responding the diversity employment This Initiative supports Healthy “All parents love their children and wanttothem to live a of healthy lifestyleschedules in order to grow up st in Vancouver-Kingsway, my community office will now Tom Warshawski, pediatrician and Chair of the Childhood Obesity Foundation. “Maintaining Families BC, the government’s indicator a healthy lifestyle, yet close one to third of on BC’s childrenevenings, are either overweight or be open from to 12pm 7pm Monday public health strategy thatoffocuses beginning September 9th. From Tuesday to Thursday on leadership, prevention and regular hours will remain, opening from 9am to health improvement for British 4pm. Fridays will continue to be closed except to Columbian families and their appointments. communities.
For more information about MEND, including how to register your child, please visit the Childhood Obesity Foundation website: www.bchealthykids.ca.
Are you on Twitter? Follow news, community events, fun facts, and workshops offered across Vancouver-Kingsway on my community twitter page: @vkingsway. Free Public Access Computer A reminder to those seeking computer access for social assistance applications, BC Housing files, resume creation or housing and job searches: 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, from 12pm to 7pm, Tuesday to Thursday from 9am to 4pm, and on Friday by appointment). My Constituency Assistants are happy to help with any difficulty. Holiday Office Closure During the holidays, our Community Office will be closed from December 23rd until January 4th.
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RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
December 2013
Collingwood Neighbourhood House
HIGHLIG H TS
Helping the homeless in Renfrew-Collingwood During the holidays season we often receive enquiries about needed donations, particularly for our Morning Star Program for those who are homeless or tentatively housed. We would love to accept your donations! These are the most needed items for the Morning Star Program: • Clothing: If you have light weight rain jackets, warm jackets or coats, men’s jeans, new socks and gloves we could use these items for our Saturday morning free clothing program, which is part of our Morning Star Program. • Hygiene Supplies: Individual size shampoos, soap and toothpaste, as well as toothbrushes are
always useful. • Food: The Food Bank is no longer able to assist us with canned salmon, tuna or other proteins; for food drives these are our priority needs. If you are able to assist us with this (as well as other canned food) it would be appreciated. Please drop off donations - clearly marked MORNING STAR PROGRAM – at Collingwood Neighbourhood House’s Reception. We can also accept small household items – dishes, vases, small pictures, toys, books for all ages, CDs, videos, clothing etc for our ongoing reception sales supporting our multilingual information-andreferral services. Thanks for your donations!
CNH Community Lunch nourishes body and soul Collingwood Neighbourhood House received the following letter from a local resident who attends our Community Lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Every month we publish the upcoming menus for Community Lunch on this page. All are welcome to join with us for this twice-weekly treat!
To Collingwood Neighbourhood House Staff and Volunteers, I would just like to thank the staff and volunteers who plan, prepare, and serve the Tuesday and Thursday community lunch at Collingwood Neighbourhood House. My husband passed away a few years ago, but when I began attending the lunches this past August it didn’t take long before I started adjusting my schedule around them! Eating alone at home can feel lonely, and eating out is expensive. The lunches at CNH are scrumptious, nutritious and affordable! The atmosphere is very warm and friendly. Everyone is welcome. I especially enjoy seeing the mix of people who come: daycare kids, their parents, some individuals who have mental challenges, young working adults, “younger seniors”, “older seniors” – a real cross-section of people in all walks of life, sitting down to enjoy lunch together and encourage each other on this life journey. Thank you all so much, once again, for all your dedication and hard work! Yours sincerely, Sandra Marcus
Got Spoons? (And forks and knives?) CNH is always in need of donations of cutlery. Dessert spoons, in particular, seem to wander off quite regularly. If you have any extra cutlery you would like to donate to CNH please drop it off at CNH’s reception. Thank you! This page is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House
COMMUNITY LUNCH Collingwood Neighbourhood House invites you to lunch every Tuesday and Thursday. Please note that seniors are served at 12 noon; others are served at 12:10 pm. Full meal prices are $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.”
Tuesday 03 Curry Lentil Soup Chicken/veggies panini Salad Chocolate Macaroon Thursday 05 Sweet & Sour Pork with Chow Mein (veggie option) Salad Sesame seed & Honey muffin Tuesday 10 Spinach & Coconut Soup Tuna Melt Salad Apple Crumble Thursday 12 Christmas Lunch (special Menu). Tickets go on sale November 28 at CNH Reception: Adults $8, Seniors $7, Children $5. This event always sells out quickly so get your tickets early to avoid disappointment!
Party Time Looking for a place to hold your child’s birthday party? Want to spent time with your child and have somebody else run the party? Collingwood Neighbourhood House offers rooms (room, gym, kitchen) to rent for children’s birthday parties. Our experienced birthday party leaders will run the party, lead games and a craft, and make your birthday child feel special. For quotes on our affordable prices for room rentals (with or without
a leader) please call Teresa at 604-435-0323
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December 2013
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
Fraser Street Housing Q&A
A unique, welcoming place for people with mental illness and addiction
by Katherine Follis The first thing I notice when I walk into Fraser Street housing for people with concurrent disorders (mental illness and addiction) is how bright and welcoming this place is. I was there to meet with Ash, the manager of this unique apartment building. There are chairs placed in the entrance area for people to gather, and there is lots of art on the walls. In the library there are books all around and couches to sit on. Ash explained that the care and maintenance of this area is done by the tenants. Outside they have a working bee box that gives them their honey. This really looks like a great place. Q: How long have you been working here? A: I have worked here for 7 years.
Q: How many people work here? A: Ten people work here. Q: How many people live here? A: There are 30 tenants. Q: What can you tell me about the people who live here? A: The people who have lived here range from the homeless to lawyers. These are people who have struggled with addiction and mental health issues. They must be three months clean and sober, and be working with a recovery team. Q: How many buildings like this are in Vancouver? A: One. If you asked how many there are in BC, the answer is one. In all of Canada, one. In the entire Northern Hemisphere the answer is the same. One.
Q: What are your responsibilities here? Q: Do you think that is enough? A: I am the supervisor, I support the support workers and the tenants, may A: No, more supportive housing is needed. it be physical, mental, spiritual or medical. Q: What would you like to see change
in the mental health field? A: I would like to see addiction and mental health addressed together and be given equal weight. We need to get rid of the ghettos and the single room occupancies (SROs); better housing will help many people get off the streets and off drugs. The money spent on winter shelters is about $2,000 a month per person, this money would be better spent on permanent housing. I would also like to see people not be not so quick to judge what they don’t understand. Everyone knows someone with mental illness or addiction. This interview does not come close to truly explaining how important supportive housing is to the tenants of this building. They treasure the thinks so many of us take for granted, like having a safe place to live and a home to call their own. Katherine Follis is a student at Windermere high school who is taking a grade 12 law class.
Hours of Operation Pool
Dec 21-Jan 5, 2014
Centre Area Dec 16-20, 2013 Dec 21-Jan 1, 2014
Interim Schedule 9:00am-5:00pm Closed
Floor Maintenance Gymnasium Jan 6-12, 2014
Closed
Holiday Crafts Workshop (3-6yrs)
Leagh Wright Learn how to create holiday-themed crafts and decorate holidaythemed treats. Tue Dec 17 $13/person 12013.401RF 10:00-11:30am 12013.402RF 12:00-1:30pm
Saturday, December 7th 9:30-12:00pm $5/person
Join us with your family and friends for breakfast, fun, crafts and games. Adults must register as well. Children under 2yrs must be accompanied by an adult. Breakfast Seating 2nd seating 11:00am – 12:00pm 1st seating 9:30-10:30am Space is limited so register early.
Saturday, December 14th 1:15-3:45pm $8/person
Gingerbread House Making (3-6yrs)
Leagh Wright In this hands-on class we will be build our very own homemade gingerbread house to take home. Supplies included. Thu Dec 19 $11/person 12612.401RF 10:00-11:00am 12612.402RF 11:15am-12:15pm
Wednesday, December 20th 12:00-3:00pm $12/person
This is a great time to celebrate the upcoming Christmas season with your friends. There will be entertainment, prizes and a traditional Christmas dinner with all the goodies. Buy your ticket early to make sure you have seat for this luncheon.
Renfrew’s Licensed Preschool (3-5yrs)
Five (5) spaces have become available for the below class. Please call 604 257-8391 for more information. Mon-Fri 8:30-11:00am $250/month
First Aid Hero - 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. Covered in this course: Fri 9:00am-4:00pm Jan 3 $60/student
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.
Wibit Inflatable Days:
Saturday Dec 21 3:00pm–5:00pm
Come and join in the fun! *Regular admission rates apply
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December 2013
RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS
An update on the Kingsway Continental As reported earlier in the RenfrewCollingwood Community News, the City of Vancouver has bought the Ramada Inn at Kingsway and Tyne Street and is renovating it. The City will re-open the building—now called the Kingsway Continental— as affordable housing in the new year. There will be a meeting at Collingwood Neighbourhood House on December 4 to provide an update on the building. A City representative will provide an update on the City’s progress in moving towards opening the repurposed building and how it will be run. According to a City of Vancouver information sheet produced last year when the City purchased the building, the City bought the Ramada Inn “to accommodate tenants from the Old Continental, a City-operated, non-market housing building (1390 Granville Street)
that is closing due to the condition and age of the building.” The City’s information sheet noted that the majority of tenants are “men over 45, primarily on welfare or receiving a pension. Many tenants at the Old Continental are living with mental health or addiction issues or other medical conditions.” There will be 123 rooms in the Kingsway Continental. The meeting will take place on Wednesday, December 4 at 7:00 pm at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, 5288 Joyce Street, Vancouver. Some neighbourhood youth and organizations have been working
to create welcome bags for the new tenants. The bags will include information on local services and organizations as well as socks, toques, gloves, scarves, canned food and hygiene supplies such as shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shaving cream and
razors. Attendees are invited to bring along a donation of something for the welcome bags, if they like. For more information on this update meeting please call Collingwood Neighbourhood House at 604-435-0323 or the Collingwood Community Policing Centre at 604-717-2935.