Strathcona Business Improvement Association

Grant Programs Available

2011-12-15T12:19:00.000-08:00

Youth Hire Program

Struggling with the new minimum wage hikes now that you need to hire? Want free money but don't have time to deal with government applications and paperwork? Learn about this new hiring incentive that grants employers $2000 for hiring youth (15 - 29 years old) and provides them with up to $1000 per new hire for external training expenses.

Support the youth in your area by employing them and giving them training that benefits their new career with your company.

Training Grant

Have dedicated employees who lack some professional training to grow with your company? Looking to improve your business by strengthening your current team? Here’s an opportunity to get this training paid for through this new government program, which runs until March 31, 2013.

If your business/non-profit employs fewer than 100 staff and falls into one of the following industries, it may qualify for this grant:

•    Manufacturing
•    Healthcare and Social Services (includes childcare centers)
•    Transportation and Warehousing
•    Professional and Technical Services

Granted Consulting (www.granted.ca) provides a service that generates grant money for B.C. businesses and helps streamline the application, follow up, and reconciliation processes for business owners.

Contact Stephanie Sang at 604-782-8812 or email ssang@granted.ca for more details. Strathcona BIA members get a 20% discount on our services, so be sure to mention that you are a BIA member!

Fab Shop Youth Program Needs Your Help

2011-12-15T10:25:00.000-08:00

by Tradeworks

The Fab Shop youth program is a unique combination of training and work experience for at-risk youth. The program is for youth with no significant work experience, and no Employment Insurance eligibility; young people who may have dropped out of high school or for other reasons not been able to ‘attach to the workforce’.

Rooted in the VANOC Olympic period, the program gives these young people lessons in machine tool operation and woodworking, safety, First Aid, hazardous materials handling, workplace skills, and life skills. The program then provides up to 20 weeks of work experience in a wood manufacturing operation to enable to learn new habits and refines their skills. In the end they have credentials, recent work experience, an employment reference, support in a job search, new confidence, and the ability to challenge the level one Carpentry apprenticeship test, if they have demonstrated the aptitude.

The program is transformational for many of the participants. It provides focus and support for them to reorient their lives.

Government supports the program in part, but the program relies heavily on private donations and corporate support. RONA Foundation is now a key sponsor and we thank them for stepping up. It costs @$15k for each student’s training and wage subsidy. If you, your business or family are in a position to help support the Fab Shop program, we’d welcome your help. Tradeworks is a registered charity and donations on-line are welcome.

For more info: the fab shop

If you can direct business to the Fab Shop, that would be great too. Thanks, and have a most rewarding holiday season.

Based in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver BC, Tradeworks Training Society has a mission to actively serve the community by empowering people with job related education, life skills counselling and job search support.

2011-12-12T09:47:00.000-08:00

Light the Spirit of the Christmas in the Downtown Eastside!

Start your Christmas season with Bah! Humbug!, enjoy great music and theatre from a cast of award winning and favourite Vancouver actors and singers, and support the Downtown Eastside community!

A witty, heart-filled production!

Megan Harris

Victorian England Meets the Downtown Eastside!

An Eastside Adaptation Of Charles Dickens’

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

A Bitter Sweet and Humourous Staged Reading

Featuring over 20 Popular and Seasonal Songs

Fei and Milton Wong Experimental Theatre

Goldcorp Centre for the Arts

149 West Hastings Street

Dec 14 – 17 7:30pm

Dec 17-18 2pm

A fantastic way to get into the spirit of the season!

Diane Roberts, urban ink productions

This imaginative all-ages production - and annual benefit for the Downtown Eastside - offers a bittersweet twist on a cherished seasonal classic that celebrates the transformative power of human redemption. Dickens’ timeless story remains relevant today, especially in light of the parallel between the economic disparities of Victorian England and Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Each year the adaption has different creative twists and turns as we continue to highlight vital issues affecting the Downtown Eastside and the City of Vancouver.

Directed by Max Reimer, Artistic Managing Director, Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company, the 2011 Bah! Humbug! features award-winning actor Jay Brazeau as the irascible Ebenezer Scrooge, actor Margo Kane as the narrator, Juno award-winning musician and actor Jim Byrnes as Jacob Marley, and gospel and blues singer/actor Tom Pickett as Bob Cratchit, Sam Bob as Ghost of Christmas Past, Donna Soares as Belle and the Char Woman, and Savannah Walling as Ghost of Christmas Future. These Vancouver favourites are joined by a cast of professional and Downtown Eastside actors (Stephen Lytton and Mike Richter), multiple instrumentalist Joseph ‘Pepe’ Danza, and the Saint James Music Academy Youth Choir. Music direction is by Neil Weisensel, with over twenty songs drawn from a modern song book of folk, pop, blues, gospel and seasonal favourites.

Tickets: $19 youth/students/seniors, $29 adults

604 873 3311, SFU Woodwards Ticket Centre, or at door

Bah! Humbug! is an annual seasonal benefit for community engaged art practice in the Downtown Eastside. Proceeds go to the Downtown Eastside Heart of the City Festival and the Downtown Eastside Community Arts Fund and a community arts small grants program managed by the Community Arts Council of Vancouver.

Produced by SFU Woodwards & Vancouver Moving Theatre in association with Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company and in collaboration with the Community Arts Council of British Columbia.

www.vancouvermovingtheatre.com

www.heartofthecityfestival.com

Zero Waste Challenge Composition Study Wraps Up

2011-10-17T11:14:00.000-07:00

For the past week, we've been collecting garbage and recyclables from 15 businesses as the prelude to our Zero Waste Challenge program, a new initiative sponsored by Metro Vancouver. Each day, we visited several businesses and gathered their waste, which had been sorted into green, orange, and black bags, depending on the nature of their work. We stored the waste in a rental bin on an empty lot and by the end of the week, the bin was nearly full. All of the recyclable were sorted, weighed, and delivered to the local recycling depot for proper processing.

Today, we have environmental technologists sorting through the three sets of waste and calculating the exact composition of each set. Once they complete their work, we will know just what our businesses are throwing away and which materials we'll have to focus on to help them move toward "zero waste" over the next two months. We'll share the results once they're in!

My favourite part of coordinating this study was spending time at all of the businesses talking to the employees about recycling. Many of them showed a huge interest in the program and were happy to tell me about their organizations' unique recycling challenges. These interactions provided me with invaluable information that will help shape the program and have a positive impact on its development.

Here are a few pictures from the study:

Weighing the recyclables at a laboratory facility

Loading up the truck to go to the collection site

My car, filled with recyclables on their way to the depot

The rental bin, with bags sorted by colour

Our very scientific environmental technologists analyze a bag of garbage

Hallowe'en Fundraiser to Benefit Downtown Eastside Elementary Schools

2011-10-12T13:41:00.000-07:00

This year Chapel Arts is organizing a very special Halloween Festival and a Zombie Walk for Brains to benefit inner-city students at Lord Strathcona and Admiral Seymour Elementary schools. Funds raised will go directly to the school’s Visual and Performance Arts program to inspire healthy young brains.

We have donated our facility free of charge for the festival and are engineering a number of events and attractions to engage, inspire, and entertain the young people of our neighbourhood.

The festival will have several different components including magic shows, “Dark Art” exhibits, live bands, a Haunted house, and an extremely visible Public Art installation using pumpkins carved by the students displayed in our outdoor courtyard on the corner of Cordova and Dunlevy where over 20,000 cars pass each day!!!

We are seeking partners in the community who share similar core values and recognize the importance of strong Arts programs for children living in the downtown east side. We are also seeking Halloween props and creative volunteers to help us decorate and execute the Haunted House and Zombie Walk.

Aside from donations to the school’s Arts programs, we are seeking corporate sponsorship for the events in the form of financial contributions and through the purchase of pumpkins and blocks of tickets for the student magic shows on Oct 30^th and 31^st. Sponsors will receive Logo placement, special acknowledgements and listings on all of the collateral marketing materials, websites, and social media sites (and possibly on our building) used to promote the festival.

Chapel Arts is a creative hub in the downtown eastside and we are passionate about demonstrating the “real” value of Art whenever and wherever possible. We care deeply about the children in our diverse neighbourhood – they are our future!!!

We recognize the need to make more positive contributions which help the children in the neighbourhood overcome the obstacles which many of us take for granted. We hope you share a similar view and can somehow contribute to making this event a success.

For more information, please contact

Ross MacMillan

Community Relations Manager

Chapel Arts

604 807-3839

E: rossmacmillan@shaw.ca

W: www.chapelarts.com

There's a New Mural Coming to Powell Street

2011-09-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

The concept for Strathcona's latest mural.

Check out the Strathcona BIA’s next mural project! This stunning art will beautify a 200-foot-long wall at Sunrise Soya Foods, located on Powell Street between Hawks and Heatley Avenues.

The concept and design come to us courtesy Todd Polich of Earth Foundation, an organization that “uses art as means to bridge the emotional and information gap between individuals and communities and the conservation of our environment.” Todd is also the artist behind our mural at Boardroom ECOApparel, 1201 Franklin Street.

Youth from the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Center will assist Todd as he paints.

Todd Polich's mural at Boardroom ECO Apparel.

Strathcona Businesses are ready to get Climate Smart!

2011-07-21T14:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all of the businesses that expressed interest in our Climate Smart sponsorship opportunity. We've now filled all of the available spots in the course and we're gearing up for the kick off session next week.

Joining the likes of other Climate Smart BIA members such as Eclipse Awards, Eco Apparel, and Sunrise Soya, are the following businesses: Colin Campbell, Atticus Financial, Mission Possible, Budget Inn Patricia Hotel, EOS Lightmedia, Vevex, the BC Maritime Employers' Association, Bruce Carscadden Architect, and Agro Cafe. We look forward to watching and working with all of these businesses as they learn to measure and reduce the environmental impact of their businesses, and we'll keep you posted as the program progresses.

Strathcona BIA Receives Funding from the City for Two New Programs

2011-07-07T13:26:00.000-07:00

Last month, the BIA was awarded $55,000 in grants from the City of Vancouver to introduce two innovative new programs: the Hastings Corridor Urban Tree Nursery and the Commercial Recycling and Composting Pilot Program. The programs will be implemented over the next year and will serve to further identify Strathcona as Vancouver's Green Zone.

The Urban Tree Nursery is a joint initiative of the newly founded Hastings Crossing BIA and the SBIA, with additional involvement from UBC Department of Forestry, the City, and Mission Possible Enterprises. We will be installing a minimum of 12 tree planters along East Hastings, starting at Gore and working our way west and east to at least Carrall and Princess Streets. The planters will be designed with input from local artists, UBC Forestry, the City's Engineering Department, and the Park Board. Saplings will grow for three to five years in the planters, and then they will be auctioned off and transported to their permanent homes. Funds from the auctions will go toward maintenance of the remaining trees and the purchase of future planters and trees. Residents will also have opportunities to sponsor individual trees; we will recognize sponsors with plaques on the planters.

The Commercial Recycling and Composting Pilot Program is a initiative that will ideally be extended to the Hastings Crossing BIA and the Gastown BIA once the pilot is complete. The program's first phase, which will run from August to November 2011, is a Zero Waste Challenge. Sponsored by Metro Vancouver, the Zero Waste Challenge will involve a group of 30 businesses working together with the BIA and Metro Vancouver to reduce the businesses' wastes as much as possible through the implementation of new waste diversion streams. The second phase will pick up in the beginning of 2012 and will build on the systems of the Waste Challenge, while also expanding the scope of services offered and increasing the number of businesses involved.

The BIA is extremely excited about these new programs and looks forward both to seeing the beautification of East Hastings Street and to helping businesses reduce their waste and save money.

To register for the Zero Waste Challenge please visit http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/XJ553CD. If you would like more information on any of these programs, please contact the BIA office.

Get Climate Smart this Summer!

2011-06-13T14:48:00.000-07:00

The Strathcona Business Improvement Association is proud to announce its new partnership with Climate Smart, a Vancouver-based social enterprise that helps businesses calculate and reduce their carbon footprints. As part of the BIA’s strategy to foster environmental responsibility among businesses, we are offering ten BIA members the opportunity to become Climate Smart businesses at no cost.

The Climate Smart training program for businesses involves attending three interactive half-day training sessions where you will learn to measure and reduce your carbon emissions and costs. The Climate Smart team takes complex, global standards and makes it simple for you to assess your environmental impact. You will map your business operations to identify where your emissions occur and learn how to collect data from those activities.

You will have access to an easy-to-use online carbon management software program that will lead you through the process of calculating your emissions. Your second training session will focus on reduction strategies and help you project your cost savings and potential payback period on each strategy. Finally, you will learn how to build internal buy-in for your strategies and market your progress authentically.

Why should you join the Climate Smart partnership?

Benefits to your business include:

· Cost savings

· Brand lift and competitive advantage

· Employee engagement

· Competency development

· Climate leadership

· Accurate, actionable data

· Easy-to-use online Greenhouse Gas (GHG) management tool

· Access to growing network of Climate Smart businesses

· Assistance navigating and accessing utility incentives and rebates

Businesses leave the program with:

· A completed and reviewed GHG inventory, conducted according to internationally recognized standards

· Emissions-reduction solutions focused on cost benefits

· Knowledge of the carbon offset market

· A Climate Smart Business seal

· Marketing and communication strategies regarding GHG management success

· Internal capacity for ongoing management of your GHG reduction program

· Data that can be included on proposals, tenders, and applications for funding

For more information about the program, please the Strathcona BIA office, 604-258-2727 or by email, strathconabia@telus.net.

Annual Members' Luncheon, June 28

2011-06-13T13:58:00.000-07:00

ANNUAL SUMMER LUNCHEON AND FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF RESOURCE EXCHANGE

This summer, we're holding our summer luncheon early because we're ready for summer to start!
Join us on Tuesday, June 28th, from noon to 2pm at the Ukranian Cultural Centre, 805 East Pender Street for a delicious buffet lunch.

Our keynote speaker this year will be David Hocking from Metro Vancouver, who’ll be describing his organization's vision for waste management and how the BIA's waste management initiatives are helping you to stay ahead of upcoming changes in regulations.

This year, we’re also celebrating the 1st anniversary of our Resource Exchange program, and we’ll be showcasing the work of several artists who have gathered materials from the Exchange.

Please register at http://sbia-annual-luncheon2011.eventbrite.com by June 21 at noon or call 604-258-2727 or email admin_strathconabia@telus.net.

Hastings Steam and Sauna: 85 Years

2011-06-13T13:50:00.000-07:00

In 1926, Arthur Meighen and William Lyon Mackenzie-King played Prime Ministerial musical chairs. Miles Davis and the future Queen Elizabeth II were born. Babe Ruth visited Vancouver, and the city’s Council established the Vancouver Town Planning Commission. And at 766 East Hastings Street, J.P. Wepsela started Hastings Steam and Sauna.

In the early days, longshoremen and fishermen came in for deeper cleansing than the shared bathrooms their hotels and rooming houses could offer. Over the years, musicians stopped by to clear their lungs after gigs in smoky bars; Stephen Fearing, the Parachute Club, and kd lang all enjoyed the therapeutic steam. Late restaurant critic and TV host James Barber (The Urban Peasant) was also a fan.

Today, 85 years after it opened its doors, the traditional Finnish-style sauna is still going strong, bathing health-seeking clients in clouds of detoxifying steam. The street outside has undergone radical changes, but indoors, owner Tej Purba works to maintain a nostalgic feel. He’s owned Hastings Steam and Sauna since 1987, when he bought it from a family friend, a woman he describes as being like a second mother. Purba, a commercial realtor, was selling the building and business for her; he sold the building and bought the business himself (and invested in the building a few years later, when he realized renting it wasn’t financially viable).

Though he and his daughter revamped the lobby to make it brighter, they chose heritage colours and kept an old-fashioned look. The building—which was built to be a sauna—has changed hands only a few times over its history, and it still features its original mosaic tile in the basement, radiators in the hallways, and on-the-spot gas-fired steam generation.

There’s a 40-person gas-fired public sauna downstairs and six private cedar and tile rooms on the main floor, three gas-fired and three electric. The walk-in public sauna is mens'-only, although it’s available for private group bookings in the evenings: mixed or women only. The privates accommodate singles, couples, or small groups.

“This is the only place you can get the real thing,” Purba explains. “The steam isn’t piped in, as it is in most rec centres. Gas firing creates more humidity. We can repair and maintain it, but if something happened, we couldn’t recreate this gas-fired steam generation; it’s been grandfathered in.”

The three electric saunas were later additions; they get hotter than the gas ones and produce a drier heat, which is good for congestion. Purba encourages customers to try both so they can establish which system works best for them.

Hastings Steam and Sauna still resembles its original incarnation, and its simple formula: deep cleansing through sweating, remains the same as well.

“Sweat is a common denominator for health; the body’s natural way of cleansing toxins is through sweat,” says Purba. “It’s like an oil change in a car.”

The steamy heat opens up pores in the skin, and stepping from the sauna to a cold shower—the equivalent of the post-sauna dive into a snowbank—closes them up again. “There’s a therapeutic aspect to opening and closing pores.”

Switching similes, Purba compares the sauna experience to a health club without the exercise; the warm temperatures increases the body’s metabolism.

And regular saunas are an excellent form of stress management, he adds. They’re incredibly relaxing, and he recommends them as a great way for people to unwind after work.

A sauna sounds like an ideal place to spend a damp winter’s evening in Vancouver but seems potentially less attractive in the high summer. Purba is quick to counter that assumption.

“We’re such a cold climate, we don’t understand why we need saunas in the summer. All the Asian countries have bathhouse traditions, and those are hot countries. The sauna increases your core temperature, so when you go into the heat outside, you’re refreshed. People from hot climates drink hot beverages in the warm season; this is the same principle.”

He also points out that in the summer, there’s more traffic and pollution is worse, so it’s actually a better time than winter to visit the sauna.

Detoxification is key to his business, and Purba makes sure the premises are clean as well. He’s not a fan of hot tubs, he says, because he doesn’t know who’s been in them. The private rooms are pressure-hosed after every use (“so you don’t have to sit in someone else’s sweat”), and the floors are disinfected. There’s onsite laundry so towels and sheets can be washed with ease.

People might make assumptions about hygiene in a public sauna, and another occasional negative association involves steam rooms as pickup joints. But Purba emphasizes that his business doesn’t cater to a cruising scene.

“People who think sex is related to steam baths are nuts! It’s too hot!” he exclaims. He sees the sauna as a neighbourhood amenity. “We’re not selling the social scene; we cater to everybody.”

Ninety-five percent of business comes from word-of-mouth, and women comprise about 70 percent of the private sauna business. The HST had a negative impact, but more new people are coming in. Purba would like to create a membership list and a punchcard system that would give the users a free session after a certain number of saunas. Still, he feels a trip to the sauna—$22 for a single private room (less for two or more people) and $12 for the public rooms—is very good value for the money.

“If you go to a show, you spend $15- $20. Where else can you go for a private setting in the downtown for our rates?”

He also encourages people to book for private gatherings. The downstairs area occupies 2,000 square feet, and there’s ample room for cycling clubs to relax their muscles and for yoga clubs to stretch. Customers hold toga parties, birthday parties, and stagettes; the only restriction is that it’s booze-free. Purba says it’s also a great location for a women’s night, a place to deep-condition hair and apply skin treatments. “It’s just like a pool party, but at the sauna.”

Whether you want an evening of sweaty joviality with friends or a window of solitary, meditative, and healing relaxation, Hastings Steam and Sauna fits the bill. One session cured my chronic pain in the neck and made me glow for three days! This most understated, unpretentious of Strathcona’s pleasures opens at 11:00 am, seven days a week. The last daily booking is at 10:30 pm.

Fortis BC grants for Small Businesses

2011-05-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

Have you ever tried to navigate the Fortis BC website to find information on grants for SMALL businesses? It can be overwhelming, to say the least. Many grants and programs are targeted at larger businesses and don't necessarily meet the needs of smaller businesses. Thankfully, Fortis recognizes this and has introduced new programs aimed specifically at BC's plethora of small businesses. And you won't even have to search their website to find out about these programs because we're bringing the information to you.

All members of the Strathcona BIA, Mount Pleasant BIA, Chinatown BIA, and Hastings Crossing BIA are invited to attend an informational lunch on June 8 featuring Jenelle Hameluck from Fortis BC. Jenelle's role at Fortis is to work with small businesses to reduce their energy use and help them access grants that are available to them. She'll give a 45 minute presentation on energy saving tips, incentive programs, and new programs that are targeted at small businesses. Lunch will be served at noon and there will be plenty of time after Jenelle's presentation for attendees to ask her questions.

If you own a building in any of these areas, this information is pertinent to you. Jenelle will show you how you can get funding to replace existing equipment with energy efficient alternatives. You will save money on your purchase costs and your ongoing operational costs. You will also save the time of trying to find the information on your own.

To register, please visit http://fortispresentation.eventbrite.com/

Best of the West Awards Gala

2011-05-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

At the end of April, we attended BIABC's annual conference in Chilliwack. This 3-day event brought together BIAs and downtown associations from across the province to participate in roundtables, attend keynote presentations, and celebrate our success with a gala luncheon and awards ceremony.

The Best of the West Awards, which were presented at the conference's gala luncheon, serve to recognize the hard work that BIAs contribute to their communities and share creative program ideas across several categories. While the Strathcona BIA was nominated in only one category (sustainability), we were incredibly inspired by all of the nominations. Some of our favourites included: the Yaletown Area Dining Card, which provided area employees with pre-loaded dining cards redeemable at Yaletown BIA member restaurants; Maple Ridge's Facade improvement Program which provides grants to BIA members for renovating, restoring, or redesigning their commercial building facades; and Vernon's Sparkle Day, which got business owners and employees outside scrubbing their buildings and cleaning up their neighbourhood.

Of course, we were also excited to share the story of our Strathcona Green Zone Initiative and even happier that we won the award for sustainability programming. The award, which was designed and produced by local recognition expert, Eclipse Awards, now sits prominently in our conference room, reminding us that our efforts do not go unnoticed and sparking conversations with everyone who comes in.

Japanese Language School Spring Fair

2011-05-03T16:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Members and Friends,

Spring is in the air! Make your way to the Vancouver Japanese Language School (VJLS)’s Spring Garden Fair on Saturday, May 7^th and get a head start on your spring planting (Japanese plants and flowers, as well as Japanese food, antiques and collectibles will be on sale)!

Abracadabra! A thrilling magic show extravaganza starts at 1:00pm; fun for the whole family!

Please support the VJLS and the victims of the earthquake in Japan by attending our premiere spring event! Partial proceeds will be donated to the BC Japan Earthquake Relief Fund.

See you there!

Click here for more details...

会員の皆様へ

風薫る５月です。バンクーバー日本語学校並びに日系人会館では、恒例の春の市を
５月７日（土）に開催します。（午前９時半～午後２時半）
日本の植木をはじめ、アンティークやクラフトなどが出店されます。
手作りお菓子や昼食の販売も致します。皆様お誘い合わせの上ご来場下さい。
午後１時からマジック・ショーもあります。

SBIA celebrates Earth Day with a successful waste drive

2011-04-29T09:28:00.000-07:00

On April 21, the SBIA held its annual Earth Day e-Waste drive in the parking lot of the Patricia Hotel. This time around, we added a little twist and asked businesses to bring down plastics, cardboard, and Styrofoam in addition to their e-Waste. Our members must have been stockpiling these items because we received a steady flow of drop-offs throughout the day.

Fifteen businesses participated in the event by doing a little spring cleaning and offloading it on us. Reboot provided a large truck which was quickly filled with computers, monitors, printers, and miscellaneous equipment that surely predates many of us. Reboot collected the items, salvaged what they could, and brought the rest to Free Geek, an organization that responsibly recycles electronic devices.

We also filled a mini-van with Styrofoam blocks and packing peanuts which were later recycled through WCS Recycling in North Vancouver. The plastics were taken to the warehouse of a BIA member who receives free plastics recycling services from West Coast Plastic Recycling (this service is available to all businesses; contact us if you’d like information). Finally, we filled another van full of cardboard. All reusable boxes were taken to Special Screencraft, which reuses them for delivering its products. The remainder was dropped off at a regional transfer station.

In total, the event collected just shy of 2 tons of waste, the majority of which was e-Waste. Our biggest donations came from Primero Cigars, Barrick Gold Corporation, and Kudos Leather, all of whom brought in well over 200 kg of waste. Thank you to all who participated.

Here’s a sample of what we collected:

42 desktop computers
35 monitors
25 printers
18 keyboards
15 ink cartridges
7 stereos

This truck was jam-packed with e-Waste for reuse and recycling at our annual Earth Day Waste Drive.

Did you miss out on our Earth Day event? Don’t want to wait for our next waste drive? Give us a call today (604.258.2727) and we’ll help sort out your waste. We can arrange for e-Waste pickups, or help you distribute functioning equipment to people who need it. We can also find solutions for your recyclables such as plastic and cardboard, so please do get in touch.

Pre-Earth Day Waste Drive

2011-04-11T15:52:00.000-07:00

April 22 is EARTH DAY! In honour of the day, we'll be hosting a waste drive on April 21, 2011 in the parking lot of the Patricia Hotel at 403 E. Hastings. We'll be there from 9:00 to 3:00 collecting your business' waste. Items we're accepting are:

E-waste (old computers, monitors, laptops, ink cartridges, cables, computer accessories, and other electronic equipment)
Cardboard
Plastics
Styrofoam

Don't worry if you're too busy to make it down on April 21. Just give us a call anytime between April 1 and April 20 at 604-258-2727, and we'll make arrangements to pick up your waste from your business or property. Help us reach our goal of diverting 3 tons of waste!

Our last waste drive, held in conjunction with Waste Reduction Week 2010, diverted just over 1 ton of e-waste, including:

20 Computer Monitors
11 PCs
58 Ink Cartridges
23 AC Adapters
19 Cables
3 Laptops
An assortment of computer accessories, printers, copiers, fax machines, and other obsolete electronics.

What happens to the collected items?

Reboot will collect all electronic donations. They refurbish what they can, and recycle the rest through Free Geek. Cardboard will be reused by BIA businesses, plastics will go to West Coast Plastics and Styrofoam will go to WCS Recycling. We'll even record it for you on the Resource Exchange. What are you waiting for? Give us a call today and we will take care of your waste.

Stay up to date on the City's Greenest City news

2011-01-26T11:09:00.000-08:00

Curious what it’s going to take to become the Greenest City in the world by 2020? Find out what thousands of people have said by checking out the draft Greenest City 2020 Action Plans at http://talkgreenvancouver.ca.

It’s going to take actions – small and large – from the whole city and residents like you to achieve this vision of a bright green future for our city and our planet.

There are many ways to help shape the final Action Plan. Between now and the end of February 2011 you can:

- Visit the website (http://talkgreenvancouver.ca) and read the draft Greenest City 2020 Action Plans, watch the videos, comment on the strategies and prioritize the actions.

- Come out to a Greenest City event

- Co-host a 1-3 hour workshop with the City of Vancouver and your organization (email greenestcity@vancouver.ca to arrange)

- Host your own workshops by downloading the DIY Kitchen Table Conversations kit (http://www.talkgreenvancouver.ca/sites/default/files/DIY%20Toolkit.pdf)

- Join the online conversation on talkgreenvancouver.ca, twitter and facebook

Stay up to date on all the Greenest City news (including the recent unanimous City Council decision to adopt the Greenest City 2020 targets) by:

- Add your email to our mailing list (add your name in the footer of http://talkgreenvancouver.ca)

- Like us on Facebook

- Follow us on Twitter

- Watch our videos on YouTube

- Check out our photos on flickr

And most importantly, please help spread the word. Pass this on to your world of friends, neighbours, family and colleagues.

Networking Event for Artists and Businesses Attracts an Eager Crowd

2011-01-21T11:24:00.000-08:00

Last night, the Strathcona BIA held its first networking event targeted at artists. The goal of the event was to promote the BIA’s Resource Exchange and inform artists in the community about all of the great materials that Strathcona businesses would like to dispose of responsibly. As it turns out, the number of artists looking to salvage these materials is even higher than we expected.

Approximately 60 artists—and a few business owners—crowded into the intimate parlour of Chapel Arts to view sample items from the Resource Exchange and learn more about the program. Businesses such as Boardroom EcoApparel, Pace Fabrics, Special Screencraft, Eclipse Awards, Saul Good, and Wiens Studios donated materials for the event to demonstrate the types of items that are available in Strathcona. The goods, which weighed almost 200 kg at the start of the night, included fabric scraps and samples, wood and paper offcuts, cardboard boxes, and several photography-related products. The items were on display throughout the evening and, at the end of the night, the artists were asked to take the materials they could use home with them. Fortunately, they took us up on the challenge, and we returned with only 60 kg of goods, meaning that 140 kg were diverted from landfills, to be reused by artists.

Through events like this one, and programs such as our Resource Exchange, the BIA aims to create a stronger sense of community between the businesses, residents, and artists in Strathcona; to establish Strathcona as a centre of excellence for waste management; and to develop Strathcona’s brand as Vancouver’s Green Zone, a community that celebrates green business practices, the arts, and diversity.

Bah Humbug! Friday, December 17, 2010, 7:30pm

2010-12-10T14:00:00.000-08:00

Victorian England visits Vancouver's Downtown Eastside with Bah! Humbug!, a new theatrical adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Re-conceived as a staged reading and musical event, this imaginative production offers a new twist on a cherished classic that celebrates the transformative power of human redemption.

Join Director Max Reimer (Artistic Managing Director, Vancouver Playhouse), award winning actor Jay Brazeau (Ebenezer Scrooge) and a cast of professional actors and Downtown Eastside community actors in this spirit-lifting story brought to life with words and song.

Bah! Humbug! is a benefit for community arts in the Downtown Eastside and the Downtown Eastside Heart of the City Festival.

Tickets also available at the door. $19 for Students | $29 for Non-Students. Three shows to pick from: Friday December 17th @ 7:30, Saturday December 18th at 2pm and 7:30. BUY ONLINE

You Have 7 Days to Make a Difference in Strathcona

2010-12-08T16:46:00.000-08:00

Image Courtesy of BlogtheCoast.co

As you may know, the Strathcona BIA is competing to win $90,000 to create 30 gardens in Strathcona and Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. We’re in the semi-finals of a funding competition and the winners will be determined by your votes -- you have the power to make a powerful impact in a struggling community.

These gardens will create green jobs, increase safety in the neighbourhood, provide local food, engage youth in healthy activities, and create a healthier, more beautiful community for everyone to enjoy.

The Challenge
Ninety ideas across three categories are currently competing for a share of a million dollars to be awarded by the Aviva Insurance Company. Our garden project is in the $25,000-$100,000 category, and it’s competing against ideas that are receiving over a thousand votes a day.

We have been stuck in 17th place for several days now. We need to finish in the top 10 ideas in our category to proceed to the final round, where we will present the idea to a board of judges.

We are about 1,000 votes away from being in the top 10. A large number yes, but certainly not unattainable. It’s a gap that could be closed with a few days of dedicated voting. We are so close to making this impactful project a reality, but we can’t do it without your help.

Each email address that is registered gets a total of 10 votes. We need you and all your friends, family, colleagues to register and vote each day for the next 7 days for the Strathcona Community Microgardens. Or, if you are short on time, you can get back to us and ask us to register and vote on your behalf.

Our idea number is ACF5454. Strathcona Community Micro-Gardens - Creating a Green Zone.

The voting link is: http://www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf5454

There are only 7 days left in this competition. Every day counts. Every vote matters. This is one time where a single vote can actually make a difference.

Please, don’t wait any longer. We need your help now. The contest ends December 15th at 9AM PST.

We are not asking for much: 30 seconds of your day, for 7 days. That’s less than 4 minutes. Use it to Make a Difference.

What you can do:

- sign up to vote at https://www.avivacommunityfund.org/users/registration

- vote once a day for the next 7 days

- ask all of your contacts to do the same

- email us and give us permission to vote on your and your contacts' behalf.

With only one week remaining, forwarding this email to your friends and colleagues is not enough. We need to register names. We need to have people vote on a daily basis. Please take action today.

Your support is truly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Sophie Agbonkhese (sustainabilitysbia@telus.net)
Sustainability Coordinator
Strathcona Business Improvement Association

Own Your Own Strathcona: This Saturday

2010-12-01T20:22:00.000-08:00

This Saturday December 4th Chapel Arts is being taken over by local designers, jewelry makers, craffers and local business owners. Come out and check some people off your holiday shopping list and most importantly pick something up for yourself while learning about what makes Vancouver's first neighbourhood so unique.

CLOTHING
Keep your loved ones clothed in this years hottest local eco boutique finds
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Monkey 100 Shannon Harvey’s Monkey 100 t-shirts are a bamboo mix manufactured right here in Canada.Through t-shirt design, public art and community action Monkey100 seeks to inspire and be part of the movement for a better world. Stop by and pick up bike themed tees for the peddlers in your life. website

Diane Kennedy contemporary eco-fashion clothing line of sustainable, organic and eco-friendly items. Stylish separates and dresses are suitable for casual, career, travel and dressy occasions. All of the garments are ethically produced by local factories paying fair wages in Vancouver, BC.Sizes range from Small - 3X.

website

Dominic Design + Manufacturing brings eco-wood and eco-leather together to create a jewelry line with material that would normally be tossed out by local manufacturers. The wood is milled to size and sealed with natural oils of coconut, hemp and beeswax. Italian Sterling Silver, 12 kt Gold Fill, 10kt + Rose Gold Vermeil Chains are use to compliment and complete this high quality jewelry.

website

Gossamer Knitwear's Julie Pongrac is a master knitter and designer that creates hand-spun, hand-dyed, and hand-knit. She works with indigenous dye products and locally produced fibres as much as possible. Her work is reflective of West Coast subject matter in her Blue Hydrangeas and Rainforest Collections. Her products are almost exclusively natural products, of heirloom quality and timeless design, with the goal of reducing waste associated with trend fashion and waste in the fashion industry.

website

Suzanne Nairne makes beautiful contemporary jewelry inspired by nature in a converted garage with another jeweler in East Vancouver. A selection of pieces will be availible for sale

website

Woven Creative is a studio shared by local clothing designers. Located in a large studio space in an industrial building nine amazing young designers work side by side designing and producing their creations. Woven’s collective includes Dru’s Design, Ella Peru, Identity Tees, Little Houses, Love Bobbie, Rockitqueen, The Penniless Fashionista and Third Floor.

Primero a local wholesale distributer of leather goods will be selling quality photo frames, bags and other gift items.

ARTISTS
Is anyone on your list a victim of blank wall space?

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Wendy Sexsmith is known for her transgressive oil paintings pushing boundaries and traditionalist notions of beauty and success. On display will be art from her Permanently Pressed series as well as her lovable smiling Buddhas, elephants and more. website

Robi Smith is brining works from her series called Voice of the Sea which captures fish from the Northeast Pacific Ocean and combine them with subtle images related to the effects of global warming. The paintings are acrylic on canvas.New work will also be on display featuring collages from found and previously loved materials as well as a selection of greeting cards and children's books. website

Micheal Wheatley (left) is a nature photographer who has had his work featured in scores of calendars including ones from Audubon, Canadian Geographic, Sierra Club, Teldon, and Western Canada Wilderness Committee. Besides many current calendars, images have recently been featured in magazines such as "Photo Life", "Gardens West" and "British Columbia" website

Ron Williams sculpture is whimsical and thought-provoking. His current installation is at Turk’s Cafe, at Own Your Own, Ron will display smaller pieces and kid friendly items, including penguins inspired by Wallace & Gromit.

Decor + Home & Body

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Land is Strathcona’s newest retailer offering beautiful and unique items for both home and body such as towels and bath products made from flannels, felts and locally sourced natural ingredients . They are so new, you can’t even see their website yet! Find them at Own Your Own!

Deserving Thyme is a manufacturer and distributor of quality aromatherapeutic body and bathing care products. Deserving Thyme distributes its products through leading retailers, spas, hotels and resorts throughout Canada, USA, Bermuda and the Philippines. website

Astrosatchel combines Scandinavian design, Asian pop culture influences and a Canadian cottage feel in vegan friendly material. Naugahyde vinyl purses and tote bags, wallets & diaper bags will all be available. As well as one of a kind pieces made from recycled textiles like winter toques and scarves made using recycled cashmere. Sold in independent boutiques across Canada and the United States, Astrosatchel products have appeared on Much Music, and MTV Canada, and in numerous magazines including Vancouver Fashion and Flare and now at Own Your Own. website

Kathleen Murphy Ceramics is all about clean lines and simple elegance that are both functional and beautiful. Her grays, browns, pinks and greens are subtle and warm, perfect for a variety of interior spaces.

After traveling throughout Europe, Kathleen arrived in Greece and worked as an apprentice in a traditional Greek pottery studio on the Island of Santorini. You may be so inspired that you register for her studio classes!

website

Tradeworks Custom Products manufactures sustainable wood products for household use, for kids, and corporate gifts. They have a selection of beautiful and unique wood ornaments for the holidays. Tradeworks provides training & entry-level employment to women in the Downtown Eastside, Strathcona and adjacent neighborhoods, your purchases will also support social employment for women in the neighbourhood. website

Soigne is a creation of Beata Dominika Kacy who operates her studio on Powell Street in the heart of Strathcona. Creating jewlery, soaps and acessories Kacy brings west coast materials together with sophistication for a beautiful but useful product. Check out new belts, wool necklaces, leather pendants and soaps in a variety of flavours. website

Shelley Cowan will be selling a number of specialty ritual items and a wide range of home crafts from bath products and candles to ceramics and sock monkeys. These items are made in small batches and whenever possible local items are used with a focus on ethical and recycled materials. Soaps bath-bombs herb soaks and candles are made with herbs from Cowan's personal garden. website

Food/Gifts

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Saul Good Gift Co. produces delicious and sustainable gift boxes. They have a “local tastes best” philosophy and working with BC’s best farmer’s and artisans to create superb and meaningful local gourmet gifts. Easily cover office gifts, relatives who you can never make happy and you'll be covered for unique holiday hostess gifts. website

Agro Cafe grows it, picks it, roasts it, grinds it and serves it fresh to you. Try their beans and pick up a pound for your holiday needs. At AGRO Cafe all roasts are sold by the degree of roast, ranging from a Light Cinnamon through to a French Roast. Expert roasters profile each coffee and roast it to the individual bean's 'sweet spot', as some beans are better roasted darker, while others are just fantastic when roasted light. Lighter palate try Cinnamon Roast, need a little darker - go for Full City Roast. Mmmmm.

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Own Your Own is a campaign to inspire interest in what makes Vancouver innovative, unique and fun. It’s about the very best in art, design, food and decor. Produced right here, or produced by locally owned businesses.

What’s local?

A business that’s committed to place. Often that means local ownership, but can also be a business that strives to source local products and services. A business that’s a great place to work and to shop or eat. It’s about quality, and a great experience.

LOCO Launches Own Your Own in Strathcona this weekend! JOIN US DECEMBER 4th for Own Your Own Strathcona December 4th | CHAPEL ARTS 304 Dunlevy Avenue | 11am-6pm

Questions? Please phone the SBIA office at 604 258 2720

Upcoming Events in Strathcona: Culture Crawl Weekend

2010-11-26T13:17:00.000-08:00

CULTURE CRAWL ALL WEEKEND LONG

The 14th annual Eastside Culture Crawl is a free three-day event showcasing east-side artists. This event involves more than 10,000 people visiting 375 artists in their studios. This will be the biggest year yet!

WITH A RAINY/COLD FORECAST MAKE SURE TO USE THE CRAWL MAP AHEAD OF TIME TO PLAN OUT WHAT YOU WANT TO SEE AND WHERE TO STOP FOR SNACKS AND REFRESHMENT. IF YOU GET LOST KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THE YELLOW BALLOONS. HERE ARE SOME OF OUR PICKS TO GET YOU STARTED:

PETER PIEROBON & CO.
Acclaimed woodworker Pierobon has recently been exploring dramatic outdoor lighting. Giant, pieces are crafted from strips of red or yellow cedar. The fixtures are made with waterproof halogen-lights, so they can be left outside. For the condo dweller Pierobon will be displaying a new line of smaller indoor fixtures, crafted from mahogany and cherry at the Crawl. Also at 716 E Hasting St are woodworkers Zillion Design and Gregory Kenny. 716 EAST HASTINGS ST

AFTERMATH AT EAST VAN STUDIOS

A group show featuring Jeff Depner, Aaron Moran, Russell Leng and Sarah Gee. Aftermath refers to the mathematical principles each of the four artists employ as a starting point for their work, which is then either re-directed, sublimated or even discarded as the work takes shape. Its not just formality uniting these four artists: all are concerned with the organic matter within the structure. (Opening Friday night!)

870 EAST CORDOVA STREET

GALLERY ATSUI

Gallery Atsui is holding its 3^RD annual show and sale featuring 100 works by 10 artists–each contributing 10, 10×10 inch panels. $100 each. This is a first come first served event; arrive early to avoid missing out! Walk-in hours are every Saturday in November from 2-4 pm as well as for the East Side Culture Crawl on November 25th 6-10 pm, 26th 10-6 pm & 27th 12-6 pm.

602 E HASTINGS ST

GOSPEL MISSION: UNCOVERING VISION

Check out art created by guests of UGM’s Women’s Drop-in program, clients in the Alcohol & Drug Recovery Program as well as UGM Alumni lead by artists Pamela Masik and Kevin Clark.

361 HEATLEY AVE

URBAN ABORIGINAL

Five high profile First Nations artists Haisla Collins, Sharifah Marsden, Eric Parnell, Richard Shorty, and Jerry Whitehead will all be showing at a new gallery called Urban Aboriginal located in the first floor of the newly renovated Orwell Hotel. 458 EAST HASTINGS ST

OCTOPUS STUDIOS

Located in an unassuming building between dim sum manufacturers, Octopus Studios is home to a group of about 14 artists. Check out our recent article on the artists. 393 POWELL ST

ELEMENTAL DESIGNS

For the past 11 years artist Sandra Bilawich of Elemental Designs has worked out of a lage industrial space on Alexander Street. Largely self-taught, the Yukon-born artist came to her art form relatively late. At the age of 29, she was taken by the work of a stone sculptor on Granville Island who encouraged her to try her hand at it. On every Crawl Bilawich notes there are always a handful of women that show up and want to learn how to weld as a result. 717 HAWKS AVE.

IMAG[IN]E CHANGE

Imagine change is a community based photography project with a simple focus, to teach children how to take pictures and to raise social awareness through large format images of their work in the community. The images will be for sale with proceeds going to the Imagine Change project and the Strathcona Community Centre.
CHAPEL ARTS 304 DUNLEVY AVE

AS YOU MAKE YOUR WAY THROUGH STRATHCONA MAKE SURE TO KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR OUR MURALS ON THE CRAWL MAP.

GRAB A SNACK

LES AMIS & AU PETIT at 843 Hastings St. Grab some cheese and crackers for snacking on at Les Amis or take a load off at Au Petit and relax with a glass of wine and fondue.

NOON – LATE, BUNCH SAT & SUN 11-3 (AU PEITI)

RUSSIAN HALL at 600 Campbell Ave - cabaret atmosphere with live performances, art and mulled wine, look for a traditional Chinese tea ceremony going down every evening. FRI 5-10 SAT 11-6 SUN 11-6

DUNLEVY SNACK BAR at 433 Dunlevy Ave for coffee served up just right and simple but delicious lunch menu. SAT 10-4

LANALOU’S at 362 Powell Street (right near Octopus Studios) serves up large plates of vegan nachos, chicken wings and a hearty breakfast benny. FRI 11-2AM SAT 9-2AM SUN 9-12

Business Development: Don't put off your resolutions for business clarity

2010-11-16T13:48:00.000-08:00

Join us on Wednesday November 24th bright and early to learn no cost tips on how to deal with tough times. While your competitors are blaming slow business on the "bad economy" you will be able to step ahead and be in control. This is great refresher information and a great way to refocus as we jump into the holiday season of utter madness.

Don't put your resolutions for business clarity off till the new year, RSVP today.

Location: Strathcona Community Centre, 601 Keefer Street, Activity Room - 1st floor
When: Wednesday Nov. 24th - 7:30am - 8:30am
RSVP: http://strathconabia.com/eventRegistration.php
Free for Strathcona BIA businesses & property owners!

Ready to get thinking?

Prepare for the workshop by thinking about your five main competitors? Which accounts/clients do they have that you want? In what way could you do a better job for these clients ? Price? Service? Support? A variety of offering?

And here is an easy one for the holiday season.....

what can you do to show your current clients appreciation?

See you next Wednesday!

Upcoming Week in Greater Strathcona

2010-11-05T17:14:00.001-07:00

DOWNTOWN EASTSIDE HEART OF THE CITY FESTIVAL (LAST WEEKEND!!!)

With a focus on the rich and diverse communities of the Eastside, the seventh annual Downtown Eastside Heart of the City Festival celebrates the culture, heritage and distinct character of the heart of Vancouver. The festival features 12 days of cultural events. Most festival events are free, by donation or pay what you can.

OCT 27- NOV 7| VARIOUS LOCATIONS| http://www.heartofthecityfestival.com

FERMENTED BEVERAGES

Discover how to make old fashioned ginger beer and amazake, a sweet, ‘cultured’ Japanese rice beverage. Impress your friends and family with your new-but-ancient skill as brew-master. Book early as classes have a 25-person limit.

UNCONFERENCE DTES CAMP: SOCIAL MEDIA
A social media workshop centered on open themes that emerge from the participants. The event will feature film screenings, speakers and time for residents, activists, business owners, artists, and urban planners to talk.

COMMUNITY DANCE WITH MARIAN ROSE
The community dance is so popular and so much fun that it has become a festival tradition. This year there will be an accordion player and dance caller, fiddler and piano combo. Dances may include contra, square or ethnic folk, and music will find it’s way from all over including the folk music of the Canadian prairies. Pay as you can

SUNDAY NOV 7| 7PM-9PM |UKRAINIAN HALL| 805 E. PENDER

JEWISH STRATHCONA
Join Molly Winston (Jewish Museum & Archives of BC) for a special tour exploring Strathcona’s early Jewish Community histories. Explore the Jewish side of historic Strathcona with its former synagogue, school, kosher butcher and more. We will end the tour at the Vancouver Japanese Language School & Japanese Hall Food Bazaar (487 Alexander). Tour runs rain or shine, please dress appropriately. $10 for non-residents, pay what you can for local residents

SUNDAY NOV 7| 10:30AM | FREE- $10| MEET @ SE CORNER OF HEATLEY & E. PENDER

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BEVVIES FOR A GREAT CAUSE

Strathcona Community Centre Pub Night, with music, a silent auction, a 50/50 draw, raffle prizes, pub food and bevvies. Proceeds support programs for children and families in the DTES. There will be on site childcare as well.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6 | 6 -10 PM | $20

PROCESS & INTENT: THE MAKING OF ART

A group of Eastside Culture Crawl artists have been selected to participate in the Preview Show. Curator Alex Henderson has decided to take the idea of the ‘preview’ in a more literal sense by showcasing the process behind some the works you will see in the studios. This is a rare opportunity to see the prototypes, the sketches books and the works in progress that reveal a little more of the story of art and artists in our community. The show will feature the work of 15 artists working in a range of media.

NOV 10 – NOV 28 | M-F 12-6 & Sat 12-4 | THE CULTCH | 1895 VENABLES ST| http://tinyurl.com/2et6gx2

20 FOR FOOD AND DRINK AT 5 LOCAL RESTAURANTS

In the spirit of the fall harvest Eat Drink Local shines the spotlight on 5 restaurants with special menus and events in the East Side. In Strathcona participating restaurants include: Two Chefs and a Table and Au Petit Chavignol. Each will offer at least one feature entrée and paired wine or cocktail selection for $20. For full Eat Drink Local menu details and reservation information check out the link. Mmm bourbon.

NOV 7-10| VARIOUS LOCATIONS| $20| www.eatdrinklocalweek.com

Newsletter November 2010

2010-11-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

Strathcona BIA E-Newsletter November 2010 via #constantcontact

Upcoming Events in Greater Strathcona: October 29 - November 5

2010-10-29T11:36:00.000-07:00

DOWNTOWN EASTSIDE HEART OF THE CITY FESTIVAL

OCT 27- NOV 7| VARIOUS LOCATIONS| http://www.heartofthecityfestival.com

TOP PICKS FOR THIS WEEKEND

ST. JAMES’ BARGAIN SALE
Eagerly anticipated throughout the year, the St. James’ Women’s Guild Bargain Sale. Don’t miss this hour and a half opportunity in bargain sale heaven to pick up household items, gifts, electronics, clothes and other items for cheap.

FRIDAY OCT. 29 | 11AM–12:30PM | ST. JAMES’ ANGLICAN CHURCH | 303 E. CORDOVA

HAISLA WITH NASTY, BRUTISH & SHORT (GALLERY OPENING & MUSIC)
This summer the newly renovated Orwell Hotel had the largest mural in Vancouver installed on it’s west wall. Now the ground floor of the Orwell where the mural was conceptualized will be turned into a gallery. The Vancouver Native Housing Society opens the first show at the Urban Aboriginal Gallery this Friday. Music performed by Haisla Collins and her roots acoustic band: Haisla with Nasty, Brutish & Short.

FRIDAY OCT 29 | 7PM-9PM |URBAN ABORIGINAL GALLERY | 456 E. HASTINGS FREE

ADJUST YOUR PERCEPTIONS WITH JOHN ATKIN & JUDY GRAVES
Take a revealing walk through the neighbourhood, about history, housing, people and community. Join John Atkin, author, historian, Strathcona resident and walking-history-encyclopedia, and Judy Graves, the housing advocate for the City of Vancouver who has worked in the DTES since 1979, on a social history walk of a great neighbourhood. $10 for non-residents, pay what you can for local residents.

SUNDAY OCT. 31, 10AM | SW CORNER OF POWELL & COLUMBIA

LOVE LETTERS FROM THE DOWNTOWN EASTSIDE

Prints of words and images unique to the DTES via the original printing press used by Woodward’s Department store. CARNAGIE CENTER 3^RD FL. THROUGH NOV. 14^TH

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$20 FOR FOOD AND DRINK AT 5 LOCAL RESTAURANTS

OCT 31- NOV 3 & NOV 7-10| VARIOUS LOCATIONS| $20| www.eatdrinklocalweek.com

VANCOUVER BUDDHIST TEMPLE: FALL BAZAAR

For those of you who missed the opportunity to buy the famous Manju at the Powell Street Festival, the wait is over! Make a note to head out Sunday for treats made by temple volunteers. Featured will be another traditional dish, Udon along with an assortment of rolled Sushi, Chicken Karaage and Teriyaki, and of course, the Manju.

SUNDAY OCT 31 |12PM-3PM | VANCOUVER BUDDHIST TEMPLE | 220 JACKSON AVE.

GREEN ZONE CONNECTS WORKSHOP

The Strathcona BIA presents Green Zone Connects a networking workshop where members can learn how to deal with problematic materials and collaborate with each other to redefine their wastes as resources.

THURSDAY NOV. 4| 5PM | LOCATION TBD | OPEN TO SBIA MEMBERS| 604-258-2727

RENEWAL + TRANSFORMATION: GREEN HERITAGE

Carl Elefante coined the phrase: “The greenest building is the one that is already built.” He is Director of Sustainable Design at Qunin Evans Architects, Washington, D.C. At an upcoming lecture at SFU, Elefante will be addressing the question: What is the cultural, economic, environmental sustainability of older buildings? With Strathcona North of Hastings ranking in the ten most endangered sites in Vancouver this is the time to consider our old school buildings and how they fit into our vision for Strathcona as a Green Zone.

BIKE TO WORK WEEK COMMUTER STATION

The Strathcona BIA is sponsoring a commuter station for Bike to Work Week (Nov. 1-7). We will be at Union and Hawks outside the Union Market handing out coffee, treats and samples from local businesses. Stop by and enter to win a gift pack from Strathcona businesses and get your bike tuned up for free.

FRIDAY NOV 5 | 6:30AM-9AM | UNION & HAWKS | ADANAC BIKE ROUTE | FREE

CLEAN BIN PROJECT: THE MOVIE

The Clean Bin Project is a feature documentary film about a regular couple and their quest to answer the question "is it possible to live completely waste free?" Partners Jen and Grant go head to head in a competition to see who can swear off consumerism and produce the least landfill garbage in an entire year. Featuring interviews with renowned artist, Chris Jordan and marine pollution expert, Captain Charles Moore, The Clean Bin Project presents the serious topic of waste reduction with optimism, humour, and inspiration for individual action.

WOMEN’S SOCCER OF THE DTES

No experience needed, everyone is welcome. Meet new people and get a chance to run around. Children are welcome to play or there are volunteers to look after them. If you need gear phone Heather at 604.734.9394

Where: Columbia & Union (Andy Livingstone Park) When: Every Thursday (rain or shine) 10:00am

More Information: http://tinyurl.com/2v3maej

Have any upcoming local events you wants us to help get the word out on? Emails us @ admin_strathconabia@telus.net

Strathcona Business Improvement Association: Strathcona Community Micro-Gardens

2010-10-04T11:20:00.000-07:00

Strathcona Business Improvement Association: Strathcona Community Micro-Gardens: "The Strathcona BIA is turning Strathcona into Vancouver's Green Zone and we need your help. We've applied for an Aviva Community Fund grant ..."

Strathcona Community Micro-Gardens

2010-10-04T11:18:00.000-07:00

The Strathcona BIA is turning Strathcona into Vancouver's Green Zone and we need your help. We've applied for an Aviva Community Fund grant to create a Micro-Gardening program in Strathcona. The grants are given to the winners of an online voting contest, so if you are interested in the idea, please give us your vote!

Here's what the Micro-Gardening program is all about:

We propose to create 20 to 30 community micro-gardens throughout Strathcona. The gardens would be installed on private properties adjacent to public spaces in highly visible, underutilized areas.Depending on the nature and size of each location, the gardeners and the property owners would decide whether the plot should be a community garden, single-owner garden, or a living wall. Vegetation would consist of native perennials and edible plants.

The gardens would be installed by qualified landscapers of Mission Possible Enterprises, a local non-profit (and BIA member) that provides employment opportunities for individuals with job readiness barriers and assists in breaking the cycles of poverty, homelessness, and addiction. Local youth would also be employed as partners with the landscapers to learn valuable food production and community development skills.

There are numerous benefits of this project:

Edible plants would provide new opportunities for local food production. Using native plants would reduce the resources required for their maintenance thus minimizing the ecological footprint of each garden.
The BIA has received many comments from residents and businesses in regards to the need for more green spaces - simply make the Green Zone literally greener. By creating micro gardens, more green space would be accessible throughout the neighbourhood.
This project would also reduce spaces available for criminal activity through the principles of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). A public place that lacks significant ownership interest is often perceived by some as places where criminal activity is supported. By converting underutilized spaces into gardens, the BIA would help reduce areas that encourage crime.
The most profound benefit of this project would be the generation of green jobs for individuals with job readiness barriers and inner city youth. The youth will gain tangible job experience and skills.
There will also be opportunities for intergenerational interactions with Mission Possible’s employees and youth in a safe environment. Many of the landscapers will be able to teach the youth some of their consequences of their decisions in their lives in the hopes that the youth would not follow the same path.

Please show your support for the Strathcona Green Zone by voting for our idea between October 4 and October 15. Every vote counts, so help us spread the word to your family, friends, and social networks, and help us make Strathcona a literal green zone.

Upcoming Strathcona Events

2010-09-09T16:46:00.000-07:00

THIS WEEKEND
SWARM at Gallery Atsui
Atsui opens its 3rd Season on September 10th in conjunction with Swarm 11 with a group exhibit titled, Mirror Mirror. New works by Jay Senetchko, Lila Bujold, Nathaniel Sullivan, Suzanne Fulbrook and others will be on display. Show opens September 10th and runs until October 2nd 2010. Swarm is an annual festival of artist run culture organized by the Pacific Association of Artist Run Centres taking place this weekend.
FRI SEPT 10 | Gallery Atsui | 602 East Hastings | FREE | Gallery Info | SWARM 11

Chinatown Street Hockey
Our neighbours over in Chinatown are presenting that 1st Annual Chinatown Youth Street Hockey Tournament 500 Carrall Street Greenway (between Keefer & Pender St) on Saturday.
SAT SEPT 11 | Carrall St Greenway | 12PM | FREE TO WATCH | More Info

NEXT WEEK

Creating Carbon Neutral Cities Down Under

In conjunction with Urban Studies at SFU, the SFU City Program is hosting the Mayor of Fremantle, Australia, for a special lecture. Dr Brad Pettitt’s talk will explain Fremantle’s recent sustainability journey and how community support was nurtured and harnessed towards this goal despite a lack of leadership on climate change at the national level. Dr Pettitt will explain the key sustainability projects the city of Fremantle has embarked on including the City of Fremantle’s recently installed solar PV array which was the largest in Western Australia. He will also talk about proposed sustainability initiatives and reflect on global sustainability and climate change debates from an Australian perspective and the connection with US and international policy.

Outdoor Table

A few short films will be presented by emerging local artists with a food theme, followed by a screening of the award winning Tableland by Vancouver based filmmaker Craig Noble. Bring your blanket and snacks as these films will make you hungry!

Urban Farming DIY

The DTES Neighbourhood House, SOLEfood and Building Opportunities with Business, is presenting a series of training sessions on Urban Farming. Starting Sept 16th and running every Thursday and Saturday till Sept 30th, running for two hour sessions covering: food activism & rights, knowing plants, soil care and plant placement and timely winter garden tips. For more information or to register call the DTES Neighbourhood house at 604-215-2030 or contact SOLEfood at 604-837-1601

September 16-30 Thursday's & Saturday's

Strathcona Harvest Festival

The Annual Strathcona Harvest Festival is back for it's 3rd year. Activities will run all afternoon and include a pie eating conest, a pie sale, raffle, community potluck, crafts and even a potato sack race! There will be workshops hosted at the Strathcona Community Centre on apartment gardening and food preservation.

SEPT 19 | McLean Park | Noon - 4pm | FREE | Harvest Fest Activities

LATER IN SEPT

Olio Festival

Spread across 4 nights throughout the cities' diverse neighbourhoods and venues, Olio features a heavy dose of Vancouver's best and brightest musicians, DJs, comedians, filmmakers & visual artists. Playing alongside homegrown talent are headliners from around the globe among others. Strathcona venues include Chapel Arts, Pat's Pub and the Astoria Hotel. Check out the schedule for venues and shows and enter to win an AVEDA prize pack so you can show up in style.

SEPT 23-26 | Various Locations | $10-$60 | Olio Info

Sustainability Expo 3.0: Redefining Green

Join us at the Vancouver Japanese Language School and Hall on September 28th, as we celebrate the Strathcona Green Zone. This small business sustainability expo will feature exhibits from Strathcona businesses, plenty of sustainability resources, networking opportunities, and a special keynote address from Bob Willard.

SEPT 28 | 475 Alexander | 3 - 7pm | FREE | More Information & Registration

Stand Up Queen Margaret Cho Takes on La Casa

2010-08-31T10:54:00.000-07:00

Stand up comedian Margaret Cho gets ambushed by Vancouver is Awesome staff Rachel Fox and a bag of La Casa Gelato after her performance at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre this week.

La Casa Gelato, located at 1033 Venables, boasts 218 flavours at any given point and has over 500 options in their recipie box. Flavours for the more daring types out there include basil, garlic and durian and ....... until recently kim chee. Fox had asked Cho in an interview if she'd be up for some of Le Casa Gelato's kim chee dessert, alas it's been discontinued but other adventurous and common flavours are waiting to be tested right here in Strathcona. Check out the interview and head down to La Casa to prove that you don't need to roll down a heavily wooded North Van mountain at 120 mph to show you are an adventurous Vancouverite.

From VIA Interview with Margaret Cho:

Fox: Vancouver is home to La Casa Gelato, famous for its insanely huge range of flavours. One of these is a kim chee concoction. Normally, I can get behind all East West gastro-marriages but this one confounds me. If I brought you some, would you try it?

Cho: I don’t know if I would like it because I don’t especially like kim chee that much. I eat it very infrequently. I like my mom’s, no others. Spicy/sweet things can be good though. I really like this one fancy dark chocolate that has chili flakes and salt in it. It’s spicy and really weird and good. I would try the kim chee gelato!!

Margaret Cho backstage at the Queen Elizabeth on Saturday. Aside from looking totally stunned, Margaret is holding a bag filled with gelato from La Casa Gelato. In our interview I asked her if she would try kim chee gelato and she said that she would but apparently there are not enough fans of that, uh, “flavour” so La Casa pulled it. I got her chocolate chili instead.

Check out the full story

http://vancouverisawesome.com/2010/08/30/high-fiving-celebrities-margaret-cho/

Tofu Dessert Ranks Top for Cool Treats

2010-08-26T12:48:00.000-07:00

Popular Vancouver food blog Cheap Eats lists their top choices for "Cool Treats Under $2.00". Born and raised in Strathcona over 50 years ago, Sunrise Soya Foods take spot number two for their tasty flavoured tofu dessert. Our staff sampled some of the new flavours at a taste test last month and have to agree that these are a tasty way to feel great about snacking.

"# 2. SUNRISE ALMOND FLAVOURED TOFU DESSERT ($1.34 at T&T Supermarket). This healthy treat is yummy and cheap. And for this low price, you get two servings of this mouth-watering soy goodnesss. Sunrise Tofu Dessert also comes in a variety of flavours including original, banana, coconut and ginger. The new custard flavor (limited edition) tasted very similar to the custard, but a lot healthier. My favorite, however, is the almond flavor. It’s smooth and refreshing and taste best when chilled."

http://cheapappetite.com/2010/08/23/5-cool-treats-under-2-dollars/

Port Metro Vancouver Launches Blue Circle Award for Shipping

2010-08-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

Our neighbours over at Port Metro Vancouver are taking sustainability to a new level with their newly launched Blue Circle award for Shipping. This award is part of the EcoAction Program for Shipping, a user-friendly financial incentive for shipping lines that reduce emissions of their ocean-going vessels. The awards are based on the quality of fuel used and overall emission reduction. This is an important initiative considering that studies indicate container traffic on the West Coast of North America is expected to triple in the next 20 years.

Port Metro Vancouver has become a leader in port sustainability globally and across Canada through efforts to reduce air emissions. Recent recognition includes the Globe 2010 ecoFreight Award for Sustainable Transportation and has been nominated for the international Sustainable Shipping award in the Clean Air category for 2010. In 2009 they were the first Canadian port to implement shore power for cruise ships. Shore power is a highly effective way to reduce marine diesel air emissions by enabling ships to shut down their engines and connect to the electrical grid in order to provide necessary power while docked.

Many Strathcona businesses cite proximity of port and rail to why they have located in the area. We commend Port Metro Vancouver on recognizing the impact they can have on the environment and taking the time to implement relevant programs that benefit us all.

Congratulations to this year’s Blue Circle recipients!

Holland America Line
Hapag-Lloyd (Canada) Inc.
“K” Line Canada Ltd.
Maersk Canada Inc.
Princess Cruises
Regent Cruise Line
Seaboard International Shipping Company Limited
SilverSea Cruises
Westwood Shipping Lines

More on Port Metro Vancouver's Environmental Projects

Olympic sale in the middle of summer - News1130

2010-08-05T13:44:00.000-07:00

Olympic sale in the middle of summer

VANOC puts remaining Olympic merchandise on sale

News1130 Staff Aug 04, 2010 19:57:19 PM

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VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) - Here's another chance to get your hands on Winter Olympic gear.

VANOC is selling off lost and found and other items that are still around. There is everything from those popular red mittens to trading pins. Other things include linens from the athletes village, about 500 unclaimed umbrellas, lost shoes, hats, toques and office supplies.

The sale takes place next week, Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. The location is 875 East Hastings.

Olympic sale in the middle of summer - News1130

Strathcona BIA E-Newsletter August 2010

2010-08-01T11:07:00.000-07:00

Strathcona BIA E-Newsletter August 2010 via #constantcontact

Strathcona Made Sustainable Pet Beds

2010-07-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

Gregory Kenny, is a Strathcona-based designer who creates beautiful pieces of furniture, including fabulous pet beds. Pictured below, Nest and Pod cat beds (also suitable for small dogs) from Gregory Kenny's Kilowatt Studio, trump the well known fabric & foam pet beds, Kenny's beds are handcrafted right in Vancouver from bamboo, organic cotton, and hypoallergenic wool. 10% from the sale of each Nest or Pod pet bed goes to support the Vancouver Orphan Kitten Rescue Association, a group that rescues cats in need and gives them a foster home until they find a new family.

More on Kilowatt Studios

Creature comforts (for cats) | MNN - Mother Nature Network

Gregory Kenny - Design Milk

Kilowatt Studio

Modern Karibou - Kilowatt Page

Pat's Classic Lager Now Available To Go

2010-07-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

Located on the edge of Strathcona lies the Patricia Hotel and Pat’s Pub which brews their own lager on site. “Pat’s Classic Lager” is all natural & preservative free and is now available to go. Pick up a six pack this weekend for some hot weather refreshment.

Left: General Manager Daryl Nelsen in the Micro Brewery

New Mural at the Orwell Hotel - 456 East Hastings

2010-07-15T12:36:00.000-07:00

A new collaborative mural designed with urban aboriginal artists based in Vancouver and co-ordinated by Strathcona artist Richard Tetrault is currently being installed at 456 East Hastings St on the West side of the Orwell Hotel. The Orwell Hotel mural with span 6 stories and cover more than 7500 square feet and use about 40 gallons of paint. Tetrault has also worked on the Ray Cam Community Centre's multicultural mural about a decade ago and has recently been involved with two new murals in the Strathcona area located at the Russian Hall (600 Campbell Avenue) and at Adanac St & Clark Dr.

The team hopes to complete the Orwell Hotel mural in August - weather permitting of course.

Images follow of the working sketches as well as the team applying the mural to the grid:

'Greening' Strathcona, one bike at a Time

2010-07-13T14:02:00.000-07:00

City funding will help bring dozens of decorative bike racks to Strathcona sidewalks

Strathcona is one step closer to achieving its goal of being the “Green Zone” of Vancouver thanks to the city's recent approval of a $20,000 Green Zone Implementation grant. The money will go towards the installation of 20 brand new bike racks along main routes in the community including Hastings Street, Railway Street, Alexander Street and Powell Street. The bike racks won't just be there to promote a green commute to work, but add artistic flair to the expanding neighbourhood thanks to a local community artist. Strathcona Business Improvement Association Executive Director Joji Kumagai says the project, due to be complete by next Spring, will bring a visual message with it. “Each bike rack will be decorated to identify them as part of the Green Zone of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. The artwork will be affixed to each side of the rack, along with a key message about the environment and health benefits of cycling as a mode of transportation.”

The Strathcona BIA has been working hard over the last two years to promote 'green initiatives' in the community. Hundreds of business owners and commuters in the area already cycle to work and that's expected to climb when the bike racks are installed next year. While they are sure to have a lasting impression on commuters, the SBIA is excited about the positive impact the pieces of art will have on one of Vancouver's oldest neighbourhoods.

Look out for new racks coming to a sidewalk near you in 2010!

Check out our coverage on News1130

Vancouver neighbourhood working to become a 'green zone' - News1130

Strathcona Celebrates Bike to Work Week

2010-05-31T08:57:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Events in Strathcona

2010-05-13T14:20:00.000-07:00

This Thursday

THURSDAY NIGHT ART BAR

Head over to the Chapel for Thursday Night Art Bar and enjoy some bevvies and art in the one time funeral home.

Chapel Arts | 304 Dunlevy | $2 donation | MAY 13 5-11pm | http://chapelarts.com

This Friday

FANDANGO FOR FREE

The Pacific Baroque Orchestra (PBO) is putting on a free concert at St. James Anglican Church this Friday. The Spain that Charles the Third ruled combined court entertainment with musical activities that eclipsed continents, eras and social classes. Dance forms like the bolero, fandango and seguidilla evolved alongside music from the New World. The Baroque Fandango concert will be the season finale for the PBO.

St James Church | FREE | 303 E Cordova | May 14 at 7:30pm | www.pacificbaroque.com

FUNNY BUSINESS

Featuring Vancouver-based artists and performers whose work conveys a lightness of tone and a capacity for satire, Funny Business takes the comedic as a medium to bring together art that is both anxiety-ridden and humorous. The show investigates how the gallery space functions as a platform of artistic engagement both at the exhibition's opening reception and for its duration. Don't miss Dina Del Bucchia's performance piece around 9pm opening night. The show runs through June 5th, but check ahead for times. Funny Business is the final show in Gallery Atsui's 2009/10 season.

Gallery Atsui | 602 E. Hastings | May 14 at 8pm | http://galleryatsui.com

Keeping Cool

HOMEBREWING WITH DAN

With 20 degrees in the forecast this weekend and the first ever Craft Beer Week kicking off right here in Vancouver it’s time to get your brew on. Check out the only place in Vancouver that you can get fresh hops and barley: Dan’s Homebrewing Supplies in Strathcona. If you are new to self brewing - tackle the process with a start up kit and brew a batch of what is known as the “Kraft Dinner” approach to DIY beer. Seasoned pros can try their hand at some of Dan’s own recipes such as Storm Hurricane IPA, a variation of the Vancouver micro brewery’s craft beer. Dan's stocks the same whole flower hops that Storm uses and generally has their yeast available as well. Wine making equipment is also on hand, along with knowledgeable staff to assist you in picking out the right ingredients and how not to make a mess.

Dan’s Homebrewing | 692 E. Hastings | 604.251.3411 | www.beermaking.ca

Community Orchard & Picnic Area

2010-05-02T00:16:00.000-07:00

Since 1991, the Environmental Youth Alliance (EYA) has acted as a catalyst for youth led and centered sustainability programs in Vancouver and in 15 countries internationally. Through initiatives EYA has gained expertise in the implementation of community driven projects with a mission to engage youth in the inner city and recognize youth as assets and leaders in building healthy communities.

EYA has received a small grant to develop a community orchard and picnic area at the corner of Raymur & Malkin Ave. in an unused corner of the Cottonwood Community Garden. The end goal is that the produce will go to the Food Bank or to a Community Kitchen Programs. The grant is a matching grant which means that every dollar spent on plants, soil, etc. needs to be "matched" in either volunteer hours or in-kind items. EYA is already working with an after school kids program at the Strathcona Community Centre, as well as a seniors program and staff from the Vancouver Dog Pound and Vancouver Food Bank for volunteers but they are asking for Strathcona businesses to donate in-kind items to match the project costs.

Items Needed

- Food donations for volunteer snacks

- Lumber & hardware for construction of the picnic area

- Paint for the picnic tables & benches

If you have materials or goods to donate please contact: Samantha Charlton at samantha@eya.ca

Out and About in Strathcona

2010-04-22T19:00:00.000-07:00

Check out these upcoming events in Strathcona

CLEARANCE - MILK FACTORY ACTIVE WEAR
Never worry about not being prepared for a last minute baby shower ever again. Stock up on favorites and get amazing deals on discontinued sizes, colors and irregulars. Visit the studio Friday, April 23rd and Friday, April 30th from 10 am - 5 pm to shop in person (you can also shop online and choose the free pick up option). There will also be a "free" bin for in person shoppers, with any purchase over $50.
Milk Factory Studio I 795 East Cordova Street I April 23 & 30 I 10am-5pm I www.milkfactory.com

WAFFLES ON ALEXANDER
Celebrate spring in the heart of Strathcona this Saturday at the Vancouver Japanese Language School and Hall. Activities will include basket making, crafts and a plant sale. Not to mention a brunch featuring the famous VJLS&JH waffles! Bring your family and friends down to 487 Alexander Street on the 24th for some green thumb action. All proceeds from the event will go to the Heritage Renovation Daycare Project which involves a green renovation of the 1906 heritage building to incorporate LEED status and a full time daycare.
VJLS&JH I 487 Alexander St. I April 24 I 9:30am-2:30pm I www.vjls-jh.com/en

DINE OUT STRATHCONA
Au Petit Chavignol is participating in Dine Out Vancouver 2010, which runs from April 26th through May 6th. The wine and cheese bistro has created a three course dinner for $18. Reservations are highly recommended. Menu posted here. Need a little more? Get your tickets for a 5 course Red Truck beer dinner at Au Petit on May 11 as part of Vancouver Craft Beer Week, tickets are $60.
Au Petit Chavignol I 843 East Hastings I Open 7 day week I www.aupetitchavignol.com

Building Strathcona

2010-04-21T16:58:00.000-07:00

Our neighbours over at the Strathcona Residents Association (SRA) have just relaunched their website - complete with Tweets and a new look. Check out their great list of community links, information on upcoming events as well as every historical fact you ever wanted to know about Strathcona. If you are curious about a specific property chat with the new SRA chair, James Johnstone, who is a historian by trade.

SRA Webiste: http://strathcona-residents.org/

Strathcona residents have long been vocal about their community. In the 1950's Strathcona was earmarked for demolition as part of an "urban renewal" program. The plan was to remove family homes and replace them with apartment buildings as social housing developments. This was the trend in planning departments across North America. The redevelopment plans included the construction of the McLean Park towers and Stamp's Place, which still stand today. About 15 blocks of Strathcona were bulldozed including Vancouver's only black neighbourhood, Hogans Alley, to accommodate these developments. Plans were then put forward for a highway which would have removed another section of Strathcona. Opposition from the community rose. Residents banded together in 1968 to form the Strathcona Property Owners and Tenants Association (SPOTA), sucessfully preventing the further destruction of Vancouver's first neighbourhood. In 1992 the SRA was founded as the result of a three-year community planning process sponsored by the City of Vancouver. Strathcona's specially designed RT-3 Zoning Code was established the same year.

Check out these 1964 clips about the "blight" of Strathcona to get an idea of what the residents were up against. Can you imagine a Strathcona with no heritage homes?

Part One

Part Two

Vancouver Japanese Language School & Japanese Hall Presents their first Spring Garden Fair

2010-04-15T13:31:00.000-07:00

Join the community in celebrating spring at the Vancouver Japanese Language School & Japanese Hall on Alexander Street in the heart of Strathcona next weekend. The spring fair will include basket making, crafts and a plant sale. Not to mention a bunch with the famous VJLS&JH waffles! Bring your family and friends down to 487 Alexander Street on April 24th for some green thumb action. All proceeds of the event will go to the Heritage Renovation Daycare Project Capital Campaign which involves a green renovation of the 1906 heritage building to incorporate LEED status and a full time daycare.

For more information please call: 604 254 2551 or email: vjls@vjls-jh.com
When: Saturday April 24th, 9:30am-2:30pm
What: Spring Fair
Where: 487 Alexander Street

Sunny Days in Vancouver - Ride Your Bike to Work!

2010-03-26T15:35:00.000-07:00

On sunny days a commute to work on your bike is a pretty choice option. But living in Vancouver you can't always depend on a sunny commute home.

What to do? Hop on the bus! Did you know bikes are allowed on any bike rack equipped bus any time of the day? Although loading a bike looks intimidating at first (especially since most bus drivers ask you do it without assistance) - with these tips it won't be long before you are blending in with the seasoned commuters.

Steps provided by TransLink:

1. Before the bus arrives, remove loose items such as water bottles, pumps, and panniers.
2. Tell the driver you want to load your bike, and then lower the bike rack by pulling on the handle.
3. Lift your bike onto the rack.
4. Lift the support arm up and over the front tire.
5. Sit at the front of the bus and keep an eye on your bike.
6. When leaving the bus, please tell the driver that you need to remove your bike. Exit from the front door.
7. Remove your bike and raise the rack to the upright position.

Still unsure? Watch this video created by the Transit Authority of River City (TARC) to educate Louisville, Kentucky on how to use the bike racks on TARC buses. They are almost identical to Vancouver racks.

Helpful links

Cycling Route Planner: Google Maps technology is used in conjunction with mapped data on Metro Vancouver cycling routes. Cyclists can search for routes that have such features as minimum elevation gains, minimum air pollution, and minimum distances. http://www.cyclevancouver.ubc.ca/cv.aspx

Streetwise Cycling: Always wanted to bike more, but concerned about safety, rain, clothing, and making it part of your routine? Make 2010 your year to ride by taking a Streetwise Cycling bike skills course. This 4-hour class will equip you with the hands-on training you need to take your bike on the road. Riders will learn helpful tips on determining the best place on the road to ride, communicating with other road users, and planning the best routes. Courses begin in March 2010 throughout Metro Vancouver at local community centres, etc. and are under $40. http://vacc.bc.ca/cycling/cycling.php?pageID=41

Historic Strathcona Market Tour: Strathcona has always been home to tiny markets, some are still hidden in the residential areas. The Venice Bakery & Freybe, both started in the back of local Strathcona houses and grew to become Vancouver icons. Others such as Benny’s Italian Foods, are well known and are considered local neighbourhood secrets. Pick up a copy of the tour compiled by the Vancouver Heritage Foundation at one of the local haunts or download it here. Follow the Adanac bike route (which turns into Union) until you hit the corner of Union (La Casa Gelato) and Glen and continue along Union into Strathcona.
http://www.vancouverheritagefoundation.org/projects/documents/StrathconaMarkets_web.pdf

Sinnful Business Development

2010-03-24T11:30:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday we hosted the second in a series of three Ghost CEO Workshops, at the Strathcona Community Centre. Surrounded by hula hoops, business development coach Heather White sped through the 10 Deadly Sins of Business Development.

White cautioned businesses not to wait for the right time to jump in and reminded us that you don't always have to be perfection. The important thing is to ask for help when you need it and learn from your mistakes. She explained that business owners feel they need to wear every hat while never asking for help or admitting a wrong turn. Simple things were highlighted like hiring a bookkeeper. Many businesses think they can save money by going without a bookkeeper. Most don't hire one until about 5 years in, which is also the shelf life of the average new business in BC. When the tax season approaches and your company is preparing for an audit, it doesn't pay to have a CPA balancing accounts and putting your books in order.

Evaluating how your business builds visabililty is another way to ensure you are not tossing money into the wind. If you attend an event - be it for networking, to showcase your product, to meet industry leaders, etc. look back a month later to see if the contacts you made have panned out into sales. If not, is the event really worth your time and money?

The group was put on the spot when they were asked about their business plans. Who had one? A few hands went up, but reluctantly. White encouraged the group to go back to the office and get one down on paper, not a full blown strategic plan but a few simple guidelines for how you want your business to run why. It might just be the way to get your business back on track and your team motivated for the spring.

Have you committed any of these sins? 10 Deadly Sins of Business Development

Curious about our partner Ghost CEO?

__________________________________________________________________________________

Attend our next business development workshop on April 15th

This will be the last in the Ghost CEO series.
What: Marketing for Small Businesses: How to Ourshine Your Competition
Where: Strathcona Community Centre, Activity Room, 1st Floor
When: 7:30-9:00
Free for SBIA members (a $49 value)

Register by April 12th at 4:00pm at:
http://strathconabia.com/eventRegistration.php
_________________________________________________________________________

Businesses going green: 5 mistakes and how to avoid them

2010-03-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

Strathcona BIA Vice Chair, Toby Barazzuol takes on the five most common mistakes businesses make when approaching sustainability. Find out how going green may not cost what you think and why you have increasingly less time to get your message across.

"In 2010 sustainability is no longer a buzzword—it has become the leading edge of business thought. In fact, I believe that understanding sustainability is the single greatest investment that any business can make towards its future success."

Read the article here:

Businesses going green: 5 mistakes and how to avoid them | Toby Barazzuol | Granville

Posted using ShareThis

Spring Cleaning: Get Rid of Your E-Waste Ethically

2010-03-04T12:15:00.000-08:00

We have been getting calls recently about where to recycle cell phones and wanted to get a list going of local drop off points. Get your offices cleaned out ahead of the Earth Day rush!

Electronic waste is one of the fastest growing areas of the waste stream, though many of these products can be reused, refurbished, or recycled people either don't want to bother or don't know where to go. More than 140,000 tonnes of computer equipment, phones, televisions, stereos, and small home appliances (e-waste) accumulate in Canadian landfills each year.

BC Province-Wide Recycling Program

There is a province-wide recycling program for electronics in BC. Currently TVs, computers and computer peripherals such as monitors, keyboards and printers can be dropped off for free at participating depots. This program is scheduled to be expanded in July of 2010 to include most household electronics, toys, small appliances, batteries and light bulbs. For more information or to find your nearest drop-off location call the Recycling Hotline at 604-732-9253 or 1-800-667-4321.

reBOOT Vancouver

reBoot refurbishes equipment and redistributes items that still have some life left and recycles items that cannot be fixed. Please call if you have more than 2 items such as computers, monitors, printers, etc. to donate or recycle.
Location: 879 E Hastings Street. Phone: 604-687-2777

Web: http://www.rebootvancouver.ca/contact

Encorp Return-It Electronics

Check out the list of whats accepted and what isn't before you go as it's important to know ahead of time since some items have an Environmental Handling Fee (EHF) levied on their sale whereas some don't. Only those products regulated within the program have the fee levied and are accepted at Return-It Electronics collection sites. Products not regulated within the program do not have a fee levied and, consequently, are not accepted at Return-It Electronics collection sites.

Salvation Army 261 E. 12th Avenue Hours: Mon-Sat, 9:30am-5:30pm Phone: 604-874-4721

Return-It Bottle Depot 1856 Powell Street Hours: Mon-Sat 8:300am-5:30pm, Sun 10:00am-4:00pm Phone: 604-253-4987

Regional Recycling Vancouver 960 Evans Avenue Phone: 604-689-4722 Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 9am-5pm

Note: If you operate a large business please note that some places state "house hold quantities" - call ahead for specifics if you have a large amount of items to get rid of.

Do you use a recycling solution not listed here? Please tell us about it.

Update from 715 East Hastings

2010-02-24T15:34:00.000-08:00

bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc moved into 715 E Hastings last year from their offices at 45 Dunlevy Ave. Emma Carscadden, promotions and marketing assistant, profiles the firms progress on creating a healthy, sustainable work environment.

What a difference a year can make. Once an abandoned karaoke bar in a state of major disrepair, 715 East Hastings has been home to Bruce Carscadden Architect for just over a year now, and renovations intended to bring this little building back to life continue.

A coat of paint and a clean window did wonders to improve the exterior image of the building, and people in the neighbourhood have noticed – walk-ins are not uncommon (but always friendly)! Renovations inside haven’t been much more complicated since Bruce stripped the interior to its bones last winter, but the entire building did require all new heating, lighting and water access before computers could be plugged in and work could begin.

BCA’s investment in 715 East Hastings continues, and will continue for many years, as Bruce and the team’s commitment to creating a healthy, sustainable work environment manifests. The process has so far consisted of little things, like using low-VOC paint and tearing up asphalt in the back to plant grass and trees, but visions of solar panels, sophisticated rainwater collection and a bright and open basement library will eventually become reality.

The firm’s focus is on finding practical sustainable solutions that fit their budget, so 715 East Hastings might not be the greenest building Vancouver – or even Strathcona – but BCA is hoping that it might be the greenest on the block.

bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc is a boutique architecture and planning firm, based in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside since 2000. Specializing in recreation, institutional and commercial projects for public and private clients, BCA is committed to producing beautiful and thoughtful buildings, and finding green and sustainable solutions within a client’s budget. Almost everyone rides a bike to work.

Emma Carscadden is the promotions and marketing assistant at BCA, and writes proposals, submissions and copy for the website.

New Location for Downtown Eastside-Strathcona Library

2010-02-03T13:27:00.000-08:00

Last summer there was a lot of talk around the Heatley at Block 696 East Hastings (SW corner of East Hastings and Heatley). The red building is a two-story, wood-frame apartment and retail block located in Strathcona.

The Heatley Block was built in 1931and has 5 retail spots along Hastings with studios upstairs. According to Heritage Vancouver it was the first home for many new immigrant families, as well as retired loggers, miners, longshoremen, shipyard and cannery workers. Below the retail spaces have been home to a variety of businesses such as food vendors, camera stores, real estate offices, and even a popular tattoo parlour. Today the Heatley Block is home to Spartacus Books, Dan's Homebrewing Supplies and Maurel Paint and Hardware. Although the Heatley Block is full of history, it never made the city’s official heritage register which was complied in 1985.

This summer the City of Vancouver purchased the Heatley Block and the two accompanying homes behind it for $1.8 million. The site was slated to be revamped for a full service library branch serving Strathcona, the DTES and Chinatown. Establishing a branch in the area has been a VPL board project since the early 90' s. The community had asked for the location to be close to the elementary school, community centres and be on the south side of Hastings as to prevent small children from crossing the busy street. The Heatley block seemed perfect, until its unclaimed heritage status came into focus.

After opposition from the community and clarification on the heritage and history of the site the VPL put the Heatley Block up for sale and started once again looking for other site. On February 3rd they announced a new site at 720-720 E Hastings Street.

From the VPL official press release: “This is truly a dream come true,” said Vancouver Public Library Board Chair Joan Andersen. “Providing full library service to these diverse neighbourhoods, some of which face significant economic and social challenges, has been a longstanding goal of the Vancouver Public Library Board of Trustees. We are delighted to announce that we are closer to making the branch a reality.” Official VPL Press Release

The VPL Board has hired consultants to refine the vision for the library branch with the stakeholders. This input will help inform the library’s overall development plan. We look forward to seeing how this plan comes together and will keep you posted on any news.

More on the Heatley Block

Vancouver Sun article, June 2009: Strathcona library proposal

Strathcona historian James Johnstone on the history of the Heatly Block
Heatley Block on Flikr: www.flickr.com/groups/heatleyblock

Inproheat Celebrates 50 years & Places as one of BC's Top Exporters

2009-12-10T10:20:00.000-08:00

Inproheat (680 Raymur Ave.) has been nominated as a finalist, to be one of BC’s top 25 exporters, for its international SubCom projects. The BC Export Awards celebrates excellence in British Columbia's export industry, the second largest contributor to the BC economy.

Incorporated in Vancouver in 1958, Inproheat celebrated 50 years last year. The company now has four offices in Western Canada, in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg. Founded by current President, Eric Panz, ING who focused early on in submerged combustion heaters. These heaters can heat or evaporate any non-combustible liquid more efficiently than other liquid heaters (such as boilers and hot water heaters). Inproheat's heaters use this technology (SubCom) which are more energy efficient (over 90%) in reducing energy and fuel costs and its temperature emissions makes SubCom environmentally (GHG) friendly. Inproheat designs, builds and installs this equipment for a variety of industries such as: pulp and paper, mining, steel and foundry and gas and petroleum, for clients located across North and South America.

Congratulations to Inproheat on 50 years!

A Strathcona Original: The East Side Culture Crawl

2009-11-19T13:43:00.000-08:00

The Eastside Culture Crawl officially began in 1997 with 45 artists in 3 Strathcona area studio buildings. This weekend marks the 13th Annual East Side Culture Crawl. This three day event is a rare chance to step inside the studios of east side painters, jewelers, sculptors, furniture makers, weavers, potters, writers, printmakers, photographers, glassblowers, etc. both locally and internationally known.

New to the crawl? Look for ideas on how to plan our your day on the official website where you can print off a map and scout out artist profiles. Also check out this article from the Globe and Mail featuring a summary of some of the larger live work studio buildings and ideas on where to stop for a quick bite like les amis du Fromage, Au Petit Chavignol and La Casa Gelato.

If you are a regular to the annual event check out some of the new artists such as Andy Blick - long time Strathcona ceramic artist on Pender Street or 716 East Hastings at the old Freybe sausage building, boasting a brand new gallery and easily spotted by coulourful chairs mounted on the awning.

Also of note is the Echo Chamber, the after hours party for the crawll. The event takes place at Chapel Arts, 304 Dunlevy Ave Friday and Saturday. For more details and to purchase tickets please check out the info booth at the Strathcona Community Center (601 Keefer Street).

Above all make sure you wear comfortable shoes, keep your umbrella handy and bring cash or checks as most of the artists don't accept credit cards. Enjoy!

Ted Harris Paints: An icon closes on Hastings street

2009-10-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

Ted Harris Paints: An icon closes on Hastings street

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Strathcona: Then & Now

2009-09-23T14:05:00.000-07:00

On Friday September 11th the SBIA held our 2009 Annual Members Luncheon at the Pink Pearl. Our guest speaker, Jessica Chen, Senior Planner for the City of Vancouver spoke about the history and unique qualities that one must take into consideration when making decisions that affect such a diverse community catering to a variety of industries and needs. Jessica Chen answered questions and spoke to members about rezoning and highlighted specific Strathcona based projects such as the DTES Awning Program and the Princess Avenue Redesign Project.

To get an idea of how Strathcona has changed over the years and what has remained the same, check out the Flickr group -Vancouver Then & Now which shows before and after shots of the changing street scape, included is a searchable map of images.

Think about how the current zoning effects you. What would you change? What elements would you keep and which new ideas would you integrate? Check out our new discussion board topic on Zoning in Strathcona and see where your neighbours stand.

SBIA Member Open House

2009-07-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

Results of the survey will be presented at an SBIA Member Open House where you will have an opportunity to provide feedback on the draft 7-year strategic plan.The open house will be held Wednesday July 22^nd from 4:30-6:30pm at the Vancouver Japanese Language School & Hall, 475 Alexander Street and is one of a number of initiatives to provide members an opportunity to have input to the SBIA as we seek to renew our mandate.

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Please RSVP attendance to admin_strathconabia@telus.net or 604 258 2720 by July 20th.