Renfrew-Collingwood Community News January 2023

Local charity provides Christmas hampers for 700 families

According to Food Banks Canada, more people are accessing food banks now than ever in our nation’s history. Of the estimated 5.8 million people facing poverty and food insecurity in Canada, more than 1 million of them are children.

Located in Renfrew-Collingwood near Slocan and Broadway, CityReach Care Society is a charity that provides 1,000 food hampers every week to local seniors and families, alongside meaningful events With

As many families face increasing financial needs this season, CityReach Care Society is stepping in to help.

Festival

Source: cityreach.org

to help make sure the holidays are special for close to 2,000 children right in our community.

Boxes of Love has been an annual initiative through CityReach, Broadway Church and several other of our local partners for more 20 years. They have not only raised funds to provide toys, grocery gift cards and other gifts for 700 local families but, for the third year in a row, brought together over 200 volunteers to pack, wrap and deliver these boxes to the doorsteps of the families in need this past December.

CityReach is also grateful for the support of community sponsors for making this event possible, including Canada Life, Peterson Group, Broadway Church, Nature’s Path, TriCity Church, Lion’s Club and PetSmart. For more information, visit www. cityreach.org/boxesoflove.

CityReach Christmas Hampers: Continued from page 1

Collingwood Neighbourhood House launches

Anti-racism and Equity Library — for staff only

Staff at Collingwood Neighbourhood House now have a valuable resource that supports them to grow and learn about racism and equity, helping to improve their personal and workplace settings as well as the programs and communities they serve.

The Anti-racism and Equity Library launched in December with a range of books based on recommendations from staff and the team at Massy Books. Included are Indigenous books, children’s books, selections for people of colour, refugees, LGBTQ2S, anti-oppressive approaches to healing and how to manage and work together.

Staff are interested in having a Staff Book Club and eventually having a book club with Renfrew-Collingwood community members.

— compiled by Julie Cheng

The Anti-racism & Equity Library at Collingwood Neighbourhood House is supported by CNH’s Anti-Racism & Equity Committee and led by the Literacy program manager.

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: Emily Corley, Julie Cheng, Karen Vanon, Masa Kateb, Paul Reid, Sophia Han

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.

The Renfrew/Collingwood Community News does not necessarily support the views of its contributors.

Next submission deadline: Jan. 10

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

You Can Find the 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

Moon) hosted their final Shedding Light talk for 2022, Watershed Management from Various Perspectives, on December 1st at the Collingwood Neighbourhood House Annex.

The evening featured a discussion with stakeholders from the City of Vancouver, Langara College, Rivershed Society of BC and Still Moon on effective watershed management in the Still Creek Watershed, the watershed that Renfrew-Collingwood is part of.

With more extreme weather events locally and across the world as a result of the climate crisis, there is an urgency to understand and protect limited natural resources, especially within urban contexts. Watershed management refers to land use and water management practices to protect and improve the quality of water and other natural resources.

Discussions throughout the evening included how reconciliation and watershed management can coincide, how art and community can be incorporated into watershed management as a means to engage and educate residents and how we envision the future of the Still Creek watershed.

was the need for holistic perspectives in watershed management. Social, economic and cultural aspects contribute to creating solutions for a resilient and thriving watershed.

A challenge for effective watershed management is that various jurisdictions, such as the City of Vancouver, Metro Vancouver Regional District and the province, aren’t necessarily working towards the same goals, and therefore can undermine each other’s efforts.

There was an emphasis on how watershed management is prioritizing partnerships with the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

Inspiring stories were told around the power of art to foster engaged communities to take part in urban planning initiatives. Future visions for the watershed shared by panelists included the consistent and abundant return of salmon, daylighting of Still Creek over time, greater access to green spaces, healthier wildlife habitat and increased community stewardship. This was a visioning practice for 50 years into the future.

The evening showcased historical and current maps of the Still Creek

ated by local seniors depicting the wildlife they saw growing up within the watershed. There were also history books showcasing what the land looked like before colonial development. Audience members were treated to tea and delicious pastries provided by Bao Bakery.

If you missed the event, there will be an archive uploaded on YouTube. Please visit www.stillmoonarts.ca and follow them on social media. Be sure to stay tuned for more Shedding Light talks and other eco-arts and stewardship events in 2023.

The City of Vancouver is hosting community engagement sessions in February 2023 for the Rupert and Renfrew Station Area Plan. Please come be a part of designing and developing our neighbourhood.

Still Moon will be there. Learn more at https://vancouver.ca/homeproperty-development/rupert-andrenfrew-station-area-plan.aspx.

Masa Kateb is the marketing and communications manager at Still Moon Arts Society.

We want to hear from you!

Want your voice to be heard about watershed and neighbourhood planning?

Watershed Management from Various Perspectives featured Jimmy Zammar Director, Urban Watersheds, Sewers, and Drainage of City of Vancouver; Amir Taleghani, Senior Flood and Drainage Planning Engineer of City of Vancouver; Emily Pearson, Foodlands Coordinator of Rivershed Society; Andrew Egan, Instructor of Environmental Studies at Langara College; Carmen Rosen, Founding Artistic Director of Still Moon Arts Society; and Adrian Avendaño, Stewardship Program Manager of Still Moon Arts Society as host and moderator.

In memory of Sterling James

To

Community Living, where he worked for 15 years.

“Sterling was a gift to everyone that had the opportunity to work with or spend time with him,” Naomi writes in an email to community members. “His fun, quirky and humorous nature could always turn a not-so-good day around. He told great stories and wrote some, too! Such a kind, thoughtful and generous man, who loved connecting with and creating connections with people.

“Such a dedicated and loyal guy. He will surely be missed by us all.”

Some of his contributions to Spectrum include supporting the transition of people served in a traditional day program to community-based supports and creating community partnerships with the Collingwood Neighbourhood House, Collingwood Community Policing Centre and the Collingwood Business Association.

In supporting people and their families, he stayed connected with the goals of the person and their networks so he could be part of co-designing interactive, flexible supports reflecting the principles of “Express yourself, build your network, find your voice.”

And in creating LGBTQ2 networking and celebratory opportunities in the Collingwood and New Westminster communities, he advocated for diversity and inclusion in all its forms. That is what community meant to him. Everyone.

“With Sterling’s passing we lost a really wonderful neighbourhood activist and friend to many at CNH,” writes Jennifer Gray-Grant, executive director of Collingwood Neighbourhood House. “Sterling really loved to laugh, tell stories, let you know what he was reading and share ideas about how we could improve life for people in Renfrew-Collingwood.”

Jennifer reports, while he was at work for Spectrum, “many of us at CNH Joyce would have seen him in the

community, or in the afternoon, when his participant’s caregiver arrived to take them home. Sterling was such a friendly person he connected with many staff passing through CNH’s lobby.

“Sterling was very active on local committees,” she recalls. “He helped to organize the first Renfrew-Collingwood Pride, he was also active in the initial meetings of the Queer in Collingwood Committee and he helped to create the LGBTQ2S+ CRN for seniors in Renfrew-Collingwood.

“Sterling was also a dedicated member of the Renfrew-Collingwood Area Services Team (AST), attending virtually every

meeting for the last decade, sharing information about Spectrum activities or the work of the various committees he sat on and providing information from other service providers back to Spectrum staff and participants.

“He was an engaged, active, passionate and kind person.”

—Compiled by Julie Cheng

commemorate RC Pride 2021, Sterling James suggested that the benches outside Collingwood Neighbourhood House be painted. He painted the bench facing CNH’s front door where he had, as he said, “lounged on and off for the better of a decade.” Photo courtesy of Sterling James

Photo courtesy of Spectrum

The Seniors Connection

Seniors get crafty at Killarney Seniors Centre

RENFREW PARK COMMUNITY CENTRE BUS TRIPS

Vancouver Aquarium

Dear Neighbours,

Happy New Year!

I know that this past year has continued to be incredibly difficult for many, and we have done tremendous work in B.C. to stop the spread of COVID-19 because of your support and sacrifice. With the new year brings hope and optimism with it despite the challenges ahead of us. I want to wish you all a happy and healthy 2023.

Vancouver Chinatown Spring Festival Celebration

After a 2-year hiatus, join me in supporting one of the largest Lunar New Year parades in Canada on Sunday January 22nd. The parade route begins at the Millennium Gate at Pender St at 11am. The celebration will feature cultural dance troupes, marching bands, martial arts performances, and many lion dance teams.

Wednesday, February 1

9:30 am – 3:00 pm

Cost: $57.14 +taxes Pre-registration is required. Activity #435498

cross stitch, knitting, jewelery making and more. All peoples welcome.

British Columbia Community Achievement Awards

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

Senior’s

programs for 55 + at Renfrew Park Community Centre 2929 East 22nd Avenue, Vancouver Phone: 604-257-8388 extension 1

SENIORS LUNCHES

Sweetheart Luncheon

Wednesday, February 15

12 – 2:30 pm

Cost: $13.33 + tax/person Celebrate love with your favourite person, friend or loved one. There will be a full lunch served, entertainment and door prizes. Menu: roast maple glazed salmon with pineapple salsa, roasted potatoes, green salad, and red velvet cupcakes and strawberries. Pre-registration is requested. Activity #434933

St. Patrick’s Luncheon

Wednesday, March 15

12 – 2:30 pm

Cost: $13.33 + tax/person

Bring in the Irish St. Patrick’s Day. Come enjoy the Irish Dancers, full course menu and of course door prizes.

Menu: Irish stew, Colcannon (potatoes and cabbage), Irish Soda Bread, Guinness chocolate cake. Pre-registration is requested. Activity #436509

Join this guided tour and immerse yourself in the centre for marine research, ocean literacy education, climate activism, conservation and marine animal rehabilitation. Stroll through the interactive displays and enjoy your lunch (cost of lunch is not included). Dress warm for the weather.

Burnaby Village Museum

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

Complete the online nomination form by going to: https://www.bcachievement. com/award/bc-achievement-communityaward-2023/

The nomination deadline is January 23, 2023.

Wednesday, March 29

9:30 am – 1:30 pm

Cost: $38.09 +taxes

Pre-registration is required. Activity # 435499

Explore the historical Burnaby Village Museum and enjoy the immersive, open-air, ten-acre village museum with 38 exhibits to explore. Including period-specific homes, businesses and a traditional schoolhouse. Make sure to bring a lunch with you, as the visit will encompass the lunch hour.

As always, my community office, at 5022 Joyce St. Vancouver, is open to provide services for constituents in person with appointments and via phone and email. Please give us a call at 604-660-0314 or email us at adrian.dix.mla@leg.bc.ca, and we will get in touch with you as soon as we can.

聯絡本辦事處請電郵 adrian.dix.mla@ leg.bc.ca 或致電 604-660-0314. 如欲親 臨敬請預約。

Thank you very much for all that you’re doing and take care.

Sincerely, Adrian Dix, MLA Vancouver-Kingsway

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

What’s happening at your local library

Collingwood Branch 2985 Kingsway at Rupert 604-665-3953

by Emily Corley, Children’s Librarian

STORYTIMES (Drop-in)

Babytime (0–18 months) Weekly on Thursdays from January 12 10:30– 1:00 am

Family Storytime (all ages) Weekly on Fridays from January 13 10:30–11:00 am

SCHOOL-AGE PROGRAMS (Drop-in)

KidsZone

Wednesday, January 11 3:30–4:30 pm

Meet other kids and share books, crafts, and fun activities at the library. For Grades K-7.

LEGO Block Party

Weekly on Saturdays from January 7 2:30–3:30 pm

Come to the library for some LEGO® building fun at this block party!

Connect with other kids and break out the bricks for a building bonanza at the library. For Grades K-7.

For complete listings visit www.vpl.ca/events

Renfrew Branch

2969 East 22nd Avenue at Renfrew 604-257-8705

Make It! Lunar New Year Shadow Puppets

Monday, January 16, 2023

2:00 – 3:00 pm

In celebration of Lunar New Year, watch a shadow puppet show about the Great Animal Race and the naming of the years after animals of the zodiac. Then create your own rabbit puppet. Grades K-7.

Make It! Lunar New Year Calligraphy

Monday, January 23, 2023

3:30 – 4:30 pm

In celebration of Lunar New Year and Family Literacy Week, learn to write Chinese characters and draw rabbits using acrylic paint to create festive Year of the Rabbit decorations. Grades K-7.

Afternoon at the Movies

Fridays, 3:30 – 5:00 pm Visit Renfrew library and enjoy free, kid-friendly movies. Suitable for families and children. Seating is limited. First come, first served.

January 20: Turning Red (2022) – Thirteen-year-old Mei is experiencing the awkwardness of being a teenager with a twist – when she gets too excited, she transforms into a giant red panda.

January 27: The Bad Guys (2022) – When the infamous Bad Guys are finally caught after years of countless heists and being the world’s most-wanted villains, Mr. Wolf brokers a deal to save them all from prison. Based on the popular kids book series by Aaron Blabey.

February 3: Encanto (2021) – The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia, in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift from super strength to the power to heal—every child except one, Mirabel.

February 10: Minions (2015) – Long before they worked for Gru, Minions Stuart, Kevin and Bob are recruited by Scarlet Overkill, a supervillain who, alongside her inventor husband Herb, hatches a plot to take over the world.

“You are never alone when lost in the magic of a book.”

— Marie Lu

My trip to the VanDusen Festival of Lights 2022

by Paul Reid

y

Dear readers, I can highly recommend to all of you to take in the VanDusan Festival of Lights. With more than one million lights decorating 15 acres of VanDusen Botanical Garden, you will marvel at the number of beautiful sights.

Be advised that tickets must be purchased online in advance for a designated entry time. My amigos and I were actually unable to purchase a ticket the first time we tried, as it does sell out.

So, we planned to come back two nights later, which we did and it was well worth the wait. It was actually during one of the major December snow falls that we attended the festival, so that was cool.

We toured the gardens for about two hours. Around every corner was one incredible scene after another. By the end, we were all a bit frozen, but our hearts had certainly been warmed by all that we had seen.

This enchanting winter garden is open until January 2 from 4 to 10 pm, everyday except Christmas Day.

Noticed in Vancouver

Karen Vanon

by Julie Cheng

I come from a family of great home cooks, from my grandmother, to my dad, to my two sisters. My mom was a terrible cook, and I take after her. So when, in the December issue of the RCC News, I committed to learning to cook red bean soup and one day share it with friends and family, this really was a way for me to discover how to make some traditional Chinese foods from my youth.

Off I went to Chula Vista Grocery, where I found a pack of what I thought was adzuki beans, the main ingredient for this classic dessert that was so often served at the end of many family meals, including Lunar New Year. Good thing I double checked with the owner, because he kindly pointed me to a different package of red beans.

I’m happy to report that I recently served red bean soup at a family dinner to commemorate Dong, a Chinese festival that always happens on the winter solstice, with a recipe adapted from The Woks of Life (thewoksoflife.com/red-bean-soup/). I don’t really remember having the orange zest or tapioca from this recipe in my red bean soup over the years, though I do remember my grandmom putting in dried orange peel.

In my own recipe, I substituted rock cane sugar (available at places like Banana Grove), which comes in slabs and has a deeper flavour than regular sugar. The ginger was my own addition. This recipe serves 6.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out for you. If you have your own traditional red bean soup recipe, I’d love to hear from you. Any tips and tricks would be very much appreciated – just email rccnews-editorial@cnh.bc.ca.

1. Rinse then soak 1 cup of adzuki beans in water for 8 hours or overnight.

2.Smash 2 inches (5 cm) of fresh ginger.

3. Place adzuki beans, ginger and 6 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil and simmer for 1 hour.

4. Remove ginger. With potato masher or immersion blender, blend mixture until desired smoothness.

traditional dessert served

end of Chinese banquets

family dinners. Photos by Julie Cheng

Collingwood Neighbourhood House Recreation Programs: Winter 2023

Collingwood Neighbourhood House offers a range of recreation programs and activities for all ages. Activities include music, dance and the arts, as well as other physical and social activities. We strive to provide a good balance of activities for people of all ability levels and interests in our neighbourhood. Our recreation programs take place at our Main House at 5288 Joyce Street and the Annex at 3690 Vanness Avenue. Integration, fairness, cooperation and mutual respect are some of the values central to our recreation programs, while having fun!

Registration

Please read the following program descriptions, which include start dates, times, cost and registration information. Participants in the many drop-in recreation programs at CNH pay the drop-in fee at the front desk. For some programs, participants must register before the program begins; in those cases, it is a good idea to sign up early as many popular programs fill quickly. Most pre-registered programs run for 12 weeks, three times each year (fall, winter, and spring) or as special summer programs. Recreation participants are required to purchase a very modestly priced annual CNH membership to participate in programs. Please register via regportal.cnh.bc.ca and for more information about our programs visit www.cnh.bc.ca or call 604-435-0323.

Children’s 2023 Winter Recreation Programs

Children’s Gymnastics

Instructor: Lucinda Donaldson

Ages 5 to 7

Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Mar 7

4:00 – 5:00 pm (Max #: 12) Saturday, Jan 14 – Mar 11 9:00 – 10:00 am (Max #: 25)

Ages 7 to 10

Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Mar 7

5:15 – 6:45 pm (Max #: 16)

Wednesdays, Jan 11 – Mar 8

4:00 – 5:00pm (Max #: 20) Saturdays, Jan 14 – Mar 11

10:15 – 11:45 am (Max #: 30)

Ages 11 and over

Wednesdays, Jan 11 – Mar 8

5:15 – 7:00 pm (Max #: 24) $81.00/9 sessions; Pre-registration required.

Gym Sense provides an excellent gymnastics program; the safe and supportive atmosphere helps children learn the skills needed to enjoy gymnastics. Classes are working on a Can Gym badge system with children progressing at their own pace.

Rhythmic Gymnastics (Annex)

Instructor: Olympia RG

Mondays, Jan 9 – Mar 6 (no class Feb 20)

Ages 4 to 6 4:00 – 5:00 pm Ages 7 to 12. 5:00 – 6:00pm $76.00/8 sessions; Pre-registration required. Maximum #: 14 participants Enjoy the unique combination of dance, gymnastics, music and self expression through the use of ribbons, balls, hoops and ropes, within choreographed routines.

Baton Twirling

Instructor: Lucinda Donaldson Ages 6 to 12 Saturdays, Jan 14 – Mar 11 12:00 – 12:45 pm $54.00/9 sessions; Pre-registration required. Additional $50.00 for baton Maximum #: 18 participants

Baton class is a combination of dance, gymnastics, and twirling a baton. With baton twirling you work on hand-eye coordination while having fun.

Parent and Tot Activities

Supervisors: Pilar Ramirez & Rosanna Costantini Ages 1 to 5 Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Ongoing (no class Mar 13 - 24) 10:00 – 11:45 am

$30.00/11 classes; $3.00 Drop-in

Maximum #: 20 participants Program ongoing.

Adult participation required. Games, music and play start us off on a journey of exploration and adventure! Gymnastics, games and physical play activities will help children develop social and motor skills.

Arts & Crafts

Instructor: Julieta Hernandez

Ages 6 to 9

Saturdays, Jan 14 – Mar 11 10:00 – 12:00 pm $70.00/10 sessions; Pre-registration required.

Maximum #: 12 participants

Children will learn a variety of visual art media, methods and contents in a free-flowing, fun environment where children can discover, experience and share the joy of the creative process. Techniques will include painting, collage, casting, relief and using recycled materials to create forms.

Creative Writing (Annex)

Instructor: Rania Hatzioannou Fridays, Jan 13 – Mar 3 Ages 8 to 10. 4:10 – 6:00 pm Ages 11 to 12 6:10 – 8:00 pm $120.00/8 sessions

Pre-registration required; Maximum #: 12 participants

Students will explore writing through stories, poems, and letters. They will improve their vocabulary, spelling, grammar, public speaking, and writing skills. The instructor has nearly twenty years of experience teaching this class, and takes pride in her students achievements. Lessons are progressive and includes homework assignments, so students wanting to register after the third class will need to speak with the instructor. Students will also need to bring their own pencils and eraser.

Wushu

Instructor: Vicky Wang

Sundays, Jan 8 – Mar 12 Ages 6 to 11

5:00 – 5:45 pm Ages 12 to 17 6:00 – 7:00 pm $60.00/10 sessions; Pre-registration required. Maximum #: 14 participants

Wushu is a modern combination of Chinese martial arts based on the northern and southern Chinese forms of Kung Fu. This class is designed to work on conditioning, flexibility, and basic techniques. No experience is necessary.

Mixed Media (Annex)

Instructor: Hristina Hristozova Ages 6 to 11 Wednesdays, Jan 11 – Mar 1 4:00 – 5:30 pm $140.00/8 sessions; Pre-registration required. Maximum #: 12 participants

Fun and messy class of creation, learning and making new friends. Acrylic painting, watercolor, painting, ink, printmaking and more art techniques will be involved. The main project will be step by step, 3D mixed media creation. Come and have fun while creating masterpieces.

Creative Dance

Instructor: Shoane Molefe

Ages 5 to 13

Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Mar 7 4:30 – 5:30 pm $ 67.50/ 9 classes

Maximum #: 12 participants

Creative Dance is a program for children and youth with various disabilities. This class will provide a fun and safe environment to explore different movements, games and dance routines. Participants that require substantial behavioural or physical support, may be asked to be accompanied by a guardian or support worker.

Children Soccer

Instructor: Daniel Petkovic Wednesdays, Jan 11 – Mar 8 Ages 6 to 8 3:45 – 4:40 pm Ages 9 to 12 4:45 – 5:45 pm $58.50/ 9 sessions

Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Recreation Programs: Winter 2023

Maximum #: 12 participantsThis program gives your children a positive introduction to sport by teaching high quality soccer skills in a friendly, pressure-free environment. Fundamentals and team skills will be emphasized.

Children Basketball

Instructor: Daniel Petkovic

Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Mar 7

Ages 8 to 10 3:45 – 4:45 pm Ages 11 to 13 5:00 – 6:15 pm $58.50/ 9 sessions Maximum #: 12 participants Basketball is currently the number one sport for elementary aged children. This program allows students develop their physical and basketball fundamental skills, individual and social skills, teamwork and sportsmanship.

Gymnastics Spring Camp

Instructor: Lucinda Donaldson

Ages 7 to 12

Monday - Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Week 1: March 13 – 17 Week 2: March 20 – 24

$150 per week (Full Day); $75 per week (Half Day)

Maximum number of participants: 22 (Full Day), 5 (Half Day)

Run by Gym Sense Gymnastics Education this camp will create an atmosphere of fun and excitement that encourages participants to safely learn new gymnastics skills and techniques. This program will educate, challenge and entertain young children.

Yoga for Kids (Annex)

Instructor: Carolina Bergonzoni

Ages 6 to 9

Thursdays, Jan 12 – Mar 9 3:45 – 4:45 pm $81.00/ 9 sessions Maximum #: 14 participants

Using yoga posture, games, storytelling, and songs, in these classes the young yogi will explore their bodies, principles of yoga, and basic developmental movement patterning in a fun and welcoming environment! The classes aim to promote breath work, body awareness, focus and mindfulness from a young age.

Spring Sports Camp

Instructor: Daniel Petkovic

Ages 8 to 12

Monday – Friday, 1:00 – 3:00 pm Week 1: March 13 – 17 Week 2: March 20 – 24 $65 per week Maximum #: 15 participants

A fun class for anyone who loves to play soccer and basketball. Learn to play the most beautiful game one week and learn how to improve your shooting and handles the next.

Break Dancing Hip-Hop (Annex)

Instructor: Thaiyo Seo

Ages 7 to 12 Wednesdays, Jan 11 – Mar 1 3:45 – 4:45 pm $140.00/ 8 sessions Maximum #: 14 participants

Breaking is a great activity for kids! It's fun, engaging, burns lots of energy and boosts memory and concentration. With master B-Boy, Tayio: B-boy Taiyo is a world-famous bboy hailing from South Korea. He combines style, power, and foundation to create his dance, and passes it on to his students with great enthusiasm.

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra Schoolof Music: Mini Music Makers

Instructor: TBA

Ages 0 to 5

Thursdays, Jan 12 – Mar 2 10:30 – 11:15 am $120.00/ 8 sessions

Maximum #: 12 participants

Develop child literacy, numeracy and social skills through music with songs, movement, and play. Parent/guardian participation is required. Registration is per child. Offered by the VSO School of Music.

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra Schoolof Music: Meet the Piano

Instructor: TBA

Ages 5 to 7

Wednesdays, Jan 11 – Mar 1 4:00 – 4:45 pm $120.00/ 8 sessions

Maximum #: 5 participants

The class is based on the “Music for Little Mozarts” curriculum, using a combination of pi-

ano, singing, stories, and fun activities to learn piano. Help your child begin a lifelong friendship with the piano while learning skills such as music note-reading, listening (eartraining), piano keyboard technique, singing, movement, rhythm, and music appreciation. *Participants will need to purchase the lesson book and workbook and have access to a piano or keyboard to practice at home.

Adult 2023 Winter Recreation Programs

Hatha Yoga (Annex)

Instructor: Vicky Kenny

Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Ongoing Thursdays, Jan 5 – Ongoing 7:00 – 8:15 pm (Max #: 16 participants) $60.00/ 12 sessions; $ 6.00 Drop-in Slow your life down and join us for a relaxing yoga class. Increased strength, balance, stamina and body awareness are some benefits you can attain from Hatha Yoga. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing.

Zumba

Instructors: Kayo & Mika Wednesdays, Jan 4 – Ongoing 7:15 – 8:15 pm (Max #: 20) Thursdays, Jan 5 – Ongoing (Annex) 5:30 – 6:30 pm (Max #: 16) Saturdays, Jan 7 – Ongoing 11:15 – 12:15 pm (Max #: 20) $60.00/ 12 sessions; $ 6.00 Drop-in

Zumba Toning

Instructors: Claudia & Elizabeth Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Ongoing 7:15 – 8:15 pm Thursdays, Jan 5 – Ongoing 9:30 – 10:30 am Max #: 20 participants $60.00/ 12 sessions; $ 6.00 Drop-in

A typical Zumba lasts about an hour and incorporates several dance styles, including cumbia, bachata, meringue, salsa, reggaeton, mambo, and belly dance. The Latin music includes both fast and slow rhythms, allowing for a great cardio workout as well as body sculpting exercises. Zumba classes are for ALL ages – no experience necessary. Most songs are pre-choreographed, so the more classes you attend the easier it gets!

Beginners Modern Line Dance (Annex)

Instructor: Sunny Wang

Wednesdays, Jan 4 – Mar 22 7:00 – 8:30 pm (Max #: 18 participants) $70.00/ 12 sessions

A program of exercise and enthusiasm where we dance in lines to music without requiring a partner. Modern Line Dance is a combination of multiple dance steps including Salsa, Waltz, Bachata, Hip-Hop supported by contemporary songs. The Intermediate Line Dance Program requires past line dance experience, and is most suitable for young adults to seniors.

Improval Plus Modern Line Dance (Annex)

Instructor: Sunny Wang

Mondays, Jan 9 – Apr 3 (no class Feb 20) 7:00 – 8:30 pm (Max #: 18 participants) $70.00/ 12 sessions

A program of exercise and enthusiasm where we dance in lines to music without requiring a partner. Modern Line Dance is a combination of multiple dance steps including Salsa, Waltz, Bachata, Hip-Hop supported by contemporary songs.

Yoga & Movement Therapy

Instructor: Eda Ertan

Wednesdays, Jan 11 – Ongoing

5:30 – 6:30 pm (Max #: 16 participants) $60.00/ 12 sessions; $ 6.00 Drop-in

Yoga & Movement Therapy offers practitioners a gentle movement experience that is accessible, holistic and trauma-informed. You can expect to mindfully move and learn to better listen to your own body; release tensions, stresses, and prevent burnouts.

Dance Fusion

Instructor: Andrea (Jenny) Ayala

Mondays, Jan 9 – Ongoing (no class Feb 20)

7:00 – 8:00 pm (Max #: 20)

$60.00/ 12 sessions; $ 6.00 Drop-in

The easy-to-follow dance-fitness choreography to popular Latin and radio hits in this high-energy dance-fitness fusion class will get your heart pumping and sweat dripping

Collingwood Neighbourhood House Recreation Programs: Winter 2023

while having a blast. These routines incorporate interval training, alternating fast and slow rhythm to help improve cardiovascular fitness PLUS using weights with some routines for toning. All ages and levels of fitness are welcome.

Adult Soccer

Supervisor: Omid Ozarpendar

Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Ongoing Thursdays, Jan 5 – Ongoing 8:30 – 10:15 pm (Max #: 18 participants) $51.00/ 12 sessions; $5.00 Drop-in

This recreation soccer program is a great way too stay in shape and meet new friends in your community. The program promises to be popular so register early to ensure your spot. People of all skills level are welcome.

Adult Volleyball

Supervisor: Omid Ozarpendar

Mondays, Jan 9 – Ongoing (no class Feb 20) Wednesdays, Jan 4 – Ongoing 8:30 – 10:15 pm (Max #: 36 participants) $51.00/ 12 sessions; $5.00 Drop-in

Join us in a social game of volleyball where you can bump, set, and spike to your heart's content. Join friends and meet new people form your community while enjoying friendly games of volleyball. Players of all skills levels are welcome.

Adult Badminton

Supervisor: Jimmy To

Thursdays, 6:45 – 8:20 pm (Jan 5 start) Sundays, 10:15 – 12:15 pm (Jan 8 start) Max #: 24 participants $51.00/ 12 sessions; $5.00 Drop-in

A CNH favourite, badminton will help sharpen your reflexes and develop your racquet skills! The gym can be divided into four courses so we’ll be playing doubles throughout the program. All skill levels welcome.

Pilates (Annex)

Instructor: Carolina Bergonzoni Thursdays, Jan 12 – Ongoing 12:30 – 1:20 pm (Max #: 16 participants) $60.00/ 12 sessions; $ 6.00 Drop-in

Pilates is a method that focuses on both lengthening and building strength. The classes focus on breath, strength, mobility, and a strong connection to your body. It’s suitable for all levels. These classes are based on a trauma-informed, holistic, inclusive approach and, as such, each unique induvial body’s is celebrated.

Senior’s 2023 Winter Recreation Programs

Qigong

Instructor: Thomas Wong Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Mar 28 9:30 – 10:30 am (Max #: 15 participants) $54.00/ 12 sessions: pre-requisition required.

Also known as Baduanjin Qigong, this gentle program uses callisthenics, stretching, and breathing exercises to increase circulation of vital energy (Qi) to maintain good health and fight disease. This exercise is particularly suitable for those who find Tai Chi complicated and physically demanding.

42 Forms Tai Chi

Instructor: Thomas Wong Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Mar 28

10:45 – 11:45 am (Max #: 15 participants) $54.00/ 12 sessions; pre-registration required.

42 Tai Chi is a condensed version of the 48-Form Tai Chi, embracing four major styles namely Chen, Yang, Wu, and Sun, as the official competition routine for international tournaments. This form enhances body balance, relaxation, concentration and nurtures good health.

32 Forms Tai Chi Sword

Instructor: Thomas Wong Wednesdays, Jan 11 – Mar 29

10:00 – 11:00 am (Max #: 12 participants) $54.00/ 12 sessions; pre-registration required.

Tai Chi Sword is a weaponry form of Tai Chi Chuan, in which the sword is considered an extension of the body. The integration helps to direct body energy through the sword and bring about movements that are smooth and graceful. 32 Form is a simplified form derived from the traditional Yang style. Participants must buy their own swords.

42 Forms Tai Chi Sword

Instructor: Thomas Wong

Wednesdays, Jan 11 – Mar 29

11:15 – 12:15 pm (Max #: 12 participants)

Tai Chi Sword is a weaponry form of Tai Chi Chuan, in which the sword is considered an extension of the body. The integration helps to direct body energy through the sword and bring about movements that are smooth and graceful.

Fashion Modelling & Dancing

Instructor: Rosy Wang

Wednesday, Jan 11 – Mar 29

1:00 – 2:30 pm (Max #: 20 participants)

$30.00/ 12 sessions; pre-registration required.

Zumba Gold

Instructor: Kane Bustamante & Elizabeth Leon

Tuesdays, Jan 10 – Ongoing (Annex) 2:15 – 3:15 pm (Max #: 16 participants) Thursdays, Jan 5 – Ongoing 11:00 – 12:00 pm (Max #: 20 participants) $42.00/ 12 sessions; $4 Drop-in

Combines catchy Latin tunes with choreography for an aerobic workout that feels like dance party. It is accessible for beginners, seniors or others needing modification in their exercise routines.

Seniors Kundalini Yoga

Instructor: Lillian Chin

Mondays, Jan 9 – Ongoing (no class Feb 20) 9:00 – 10:00 am (Max #: 15 participants) $42.00/ 12 sessions; $4 Drop-in

Drop-in and relax, renew, and rejuvenate through breathing, exercises, stretching and meditation.

24 Forms Tai Chi

Instructor: Thomas Wong

Mondays, Jan 9 – Mar 27 (no class Feb 20) 10:30 – 11:30 am (Max #: 18 participants) $49.50/ 11 sessions; pre-registration required.

Integrate mind, body and qi (energy) – keep blood and energy circulation smooth in the entire body to prevent disease.

Aging gracefully with the modelling and dancing exercise. This is a combination of simplified runway walk, ballet and Chinese classical dance. In the class, participants will do some warm-up first, and then learn some body shaping movements step by step led by the instructor. At the end of the class, participants will practice the moves with the music. This training is aimed to help older adults build up healthy standing and walking posture, develop body coordination with the music and rhythm and showcase the beauty and elegance inside out.

Chinese Classical Dance

Instructor: Joan Vue Ng Fridays, Jan 13 – Mar 31 10:00 – 11:30 am (Max #: 16 participants) $30.00/ 12 sessions; pre-registration required.

This class introduces you to all aspects of Chinese Classical Dance, including the unique dance moves, music and apparel from various ethnical Chinese groups. Some basic dance experience is required.

Seniors Drop-in Badminton

Volunteer Supervisor: Ken Lau Saturdays, Jan 14 – Ongoing 1:15 – 3:00 pm (Max #: 16 participants) $42.00/ 12 sessions; Drop-in $4.00 Bring your own rackets and birdies. NO instruction provided.

Walking Club

Volunteer Supervisors: Elena & David Mondays, Jan 9 – Ongoing Wednesdays, Jan 11 – Ongoing 10:30 am START FREE

Get some exercise and meet new people. Dress for the weather and bring an umbrella. See the schedule, which is available at the front desk. Meet in front of the CNH Lobby.

Read On! A news section

HAPPY YEAR OF THE WATER RABBIT

by Sophia Han

A year of hope

In 2023, the Lunar New Year starts on January 22nd. The Chinese zodiac sign for 2023 is the Water Rabbit. It is a symbol of peace, hope and longevity.

The Lunar New Year is the most important public holiday in China, but it is also celebrated in Asian countries such as Singapore, South Korea and Vietnam. Because Vancouver is home to many cultures that celebrate the Lunar New Year, you may be asked to join the celebrations at someone’s home.

Read on to learn about traditional gifts to bring your hosts on this special occasion.

Giving Lunar New Year gifts



Gift-giving is an important Lunar New Year tradition, but gifts vary depending on the age and the giver’s relationship to the recipient. You may already know that children receive money in bright red packets called hongbao. If your host has children, it is fine to give them a small amount in a red packet, but the amount should be an even number. Except for the number 4 (which sounds like the word for death in Chinese), even numbers are considered lucky.

Many Asian bakeries at this time will sell boxes of traditional sweets like almond cookies, but it is also common to see gifts of chocolates wrapped to look like gold coins. Crispy egg rolls are sweet, flaky biscuits that are sold in large tins. They are considered lucky because they symbolize wealth.

Money trees and lucky bamboo plants are also popular and a basket of any citrus fruit is always welcome. All of these items symbolize prosperity. In fact, so long as your gift is lucky or auspicious, you can’t really go wrong.

In Renfrew-Collingwood, drop by the Pine House Bread & Cake Shop at 3396 Kingsway for almond cookies. For chocolate gold coins, visit Purdys Chocolatier at 2777 Kingsway.

VOCABULARY

Lunar New Year a year that starts on the first full moon of the year Chinese zodiac 12 animals that represent a group of stars longevity long-life occasion an event vary things that vary can be different or change relationship the connection between people recipient the person receiving something already already can describe something that is true before the present time except not including considered thought to be common something that happens often prosperity wealth auspicious suggesting success

for Renfrew-Collingwood learners

has a web page. You can:  Read the articles Level 1 

https://thewordsearch.com/puzzle/4513725/happy-year-of-the-water-rabbit/

Collingwood Neighbourhood House HIGHLIGHTS

5288 Joyce St. ; Tel: 604-435-0323 / Annex Location: 3690 Vanness Ave. ; Tel: 604-428-9142 / Visit: www.cnh.bc.ca

25 years of ‘Tetris:’ Nelly Yep celebrates a milestone at CNH

By Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) proudly recognizes its long-serving staff members. At this year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), CNH staff and contractors who have reached the milestones of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years of service to the neighbourhood house were thanked by the Board of Directors.

This year, we recognize and celebrate Nelly Yep for 25 years of service. Here’s what Jenny Eng-Chan, Reception Manager, had to say about Nelly:

“Nelly is our internal booking clerk who keeps CNH’s Main House and Annex running smoothly by scheduling programs and events in their correct timeslot. It is similar to playing Tetris on the computer. What a fun job, you would think, but this wasn’t always the case as the internal booking process has come a long way over the last 25 years. Back in the ‘old’ days, booking was comprised of a stack of photocopied pages bound together by metal prongs and protected by a plastic blue cover page. Hence, we named it the blue book or our CNH bible. It felt like Nelly was book-binding every six months. Nelly would enter the bookings manually into each day, on each page, and sometimes this required a lot of cutting and pasting. Fast forward to today, and thank goodness for technology–the blue book has retired.

“Over the years, Reception has gone through changes. Our furniture has been replaced and the blue book is gone but there is always one constant: Nelly’s attitude toward her work and her coworkers. She has continued to be a helpful and kind person who will always greet you by name. As I haven’t seen her grumpy or negative, I often wondered what the underlying secret to her being so happy and pleasant is. So, I decided to do some detective work and look for clues in her daily rituals. The first thing that I noticed was that she doesn’t eat breakfast and that she loves her veggies, but I didn’t think this was ‘the secret.’ There must be something that she does that other people don’t! Then the ‘aha’ moment struck. It must be the two shots of concentrated lemon juice that she

always requests at the tea shop when she orders her drink (and she requests this with no sugar). The saying ‘you are what you eat’ doesn’t apply here because Nelly definitely does not exhibit sourness. Rather, she has a sweet and bright disposition.

“So that’s her secret I suppose? If that is the case, the morning coffee may have to switch out for Nelly’s lemon elixir. Congratulations, Nelly, on your 25th anniversary of playing room-booking Tetris at CNH!”

For information about careers at CNH, visit www.cnh.bc.ca/about/ careers.

is sponsored by the Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Nelly Yep

JANUARY 2023

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

Thank you to our businesses and the participants who, likes, shared, tagged and comment on the 12 Days of Christmas in Collingwood Instagram campaign.

The Jr. BIA members, who are Windermere Secondary School students went out to video each 12 businesses to make Reels to showcase same treasures we have in Collingwood. For 12 Days a different business was features and there were prizes giveaways. After the final day a grand prize with over $350.00 was drawn.

12 Businesses were: Liberte Café, Orijin Yoga, Yo-Bones BBQ, Starbucks Boundary Plaza, Sigma Eye Care, Oba Oba Brazil Market, Minus Cake Boutique, Potato Corner, Max’s Restaurant, Share Tea, Safeway and Canffle.

Collingwood BIA Beautification & Improvement

Micro Grants 3.0 DEADLINE is March 3, 2023.

Reminder: Micro Grants to our members. The grant can be used for sprucing up your interior or exterior, security and safety equipment, upgrading your equipment used for your business, awning signs, lighting improvements and more. The maximum funding is $1,000.00 and is open to all Collingwood BIA businesses along Kingsway between Boundary Road and Rupert Street. Link to application: https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:53ab cd8b-0af1-4149-bdba-58c6d1d122da Contact the office for more information. Happy