It’s Tuesday July 16th and welcome to another edition of The Vancouver Sage: your ticket to being the most informed person at your next bridge club meeting.

WEATHER

What to Wear This Week

Over the next 7 days, our city will experience mostly sunny conditions with daytime highs ranging from 23°C to 27°C.

Nights will be clear to partly cloudy with consistent lows around 15-16°C, making for pleasant summer weather overall.

Here’s what to wear:

1. Breathable layers: Light cotton shirts, sweaters for evenings, and loose-fitting bottoms to accommodate temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C.

2. Sun protection: Wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen for the consistently sunny weather.

3. Hydration essentials: Reusable water bottle and possibly a portable fan for personal cooling on warmer days.

Remember to stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sunlight hours.

In week’s newsletter:

• Delving into Vancouver’s street names

• Some respite from the noise of the fireworks

• Vancouver’s new downtown plan

• A chance to check the health of our liver for free

• Places offering discounts for us seniors

IN THE NEWS

Changes at the Beach: What You Need To Know

The Park Board recently voted against the city's plan to bring two-way traffic back to Beach Avenue near Stanley Park. Instead, they're putting $10 million towards sprucing up some of our favorite spots.

Included items is a fresh look for the English Bay Bathhouse, improvements to Alexandra Park, and even a new playground and cafe near Sunset Beach. 

Now, Mayor Sim isn't too happy about this, but others are cheering the decision.

What do you think? Should we keep Beach Avenue peaceful for our walks, or open it up for more cars?

Climb, Sit, Enjoy: Hastings Park's New Sky-High Attraction

Do you remember the good old days of Empire Stadium and riding the wild wooden roller coaster at Playland? Well, Hastings Park is honoring both, but with a twist!

Say hello to "Home + Away," a towering 17-metre high sculpture that's part art, part fun, and all Vancouver. Imagine stadium bleachers got creative and decided to reach for the sky!

This isn't just for looking at. You can climb it, sit on it, and soak in views that'll make you feel 20 years younger (well, almost). It seats 49 people, perfect for watching events at Empire Fields or just enjoying a sunny day.

Created by Seattle artists Annie Han and Daniel Mihalyo, this artwork is a nod to our city's rich history. It's like they've taken a slice of Vancouver's past and turned it into a playground for all ages.

So, what do you say? Fancy a climb ‘up’ memory lane? Or maybe just a sit-down with a view? Either way, Hastings Park is calling!

A Stroll Down Memory Lane: Vancouver's Street Names Tell Our Story

Have you ever wonder about the stories behind Vancouver's street names?

Well, Elizabeth Walker's book, "Street Names of Vancouver," is like a time machine for our beloved city!

Do you know that Granville Street was named after the Earl of Granville. And Robson Street? That's a nod to John Robson, one of our former Premiers.

For many of us who've seen Vancouver grow and change, these names are more than just signs - they're chapters in our shared story. Some streets have even changed names over the years, just like our city has evolved.

Next time you're out for a walk, take a moment to think about the history under your feet. It's amazing how much our streets can tell us about where we've been and where we're going.

Read the book online here: https://bccd.vpl.ca/pdf/Street_Names_of_Vancouver.pdf

Celebration of Light Gets a Quiet Upgrade: Good News for Dog Owners

Many of us have grown weary of the summer crowds at the Celebration of Light shows. But here's a bit of good news, especially for our four-legged friends: this year's festivities will feature a quieter spectacle.

Organizers are adding 200 drones to illuminate the nightly shows, which all starts this coming Saturday.

These silent flyers will create dazzling displays in the sky, offering a visual treat without the usual bangs and booms.

For those of us in the with dogs who typically spend these evenings comforting our noise-sensitive pals, this could mean a more relaxed experience. We might even get to enjoy the show ourselves!

While the traditional fireworks will still be part of the event, the addition of drones could signal a shift towards a more pet-friendly celebration. It's a small step, but one in the right direction for our furry companions.

Heads Up: New Parking Fees at Spanish Banks

If you’re planning a trip to Spanish Banks, here's a quick update: As of Friday just gone, parking is no longer free. You'll need to pay $1 per hour to park your car.

This change aims to improve accessibility and reduce traffic issues. If you're visiting, consider carpooling or public transit to save on parking fees.

Science World Gets a Facelift: A New Reason to Visit with the Grandkids!

Science World is getting some well-deserved TLC!

The federal government is giving $19 million to spruce up this Vancouver landmark.

What's in store? They're fixing up that iconic silver dome and upgrading the heating and electrical systems. Best of all, they're reopening the theatre and making everything more accessible for us.

This means lower energy bills for Science World and a chance for us to enjoy it for years to come. Why not plan a visit with the grandkids once the work is done? It'll be like rediscovering an old friend, who has had some work done!

A Brighter Downtown for Us Sages: Vancouver's New Plan

Remember when we used to paint the town red? Well, get ready to dust off those dancing shoes because downtown Vancouver is getting a makeover, and it's got us in mind!

The Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association has a new plan for 2023-2028.

Here's the scoop:

Safety First: They're turning up the volume on our safety concerns. More eyes on the street, better connections with police and healthcare.

Lively Spaces: Picture this - more events, prettier parks, and cozy corners to catch up with friends.

Wallet-Friendly Living: They're pushing for affordable housing and sprucing up public amenities. Better transit and more accessible facilities mean we can keep our independence without breaking the bank.

Have Your Say: They want to hear from us! More chances to speak up and be part of the action. Who says we can't teach an old city new tricks?

Granville Street Magic: Our old stomping ground is getting some TLC. Safer, livelier, and ready for us to make new memories.

Looks like downtown Vancouver is determined to keep up with us!

So, what do you think? Ready to show the youngsters how it's done? Share your thoughts, and let's paint the town... well, maybe a nice, sensible beige!

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Free Health Check: Give Your Liver Some Love

The Canadian Liver Foundation is offering free liver health check-ups right here in our backyard. It's all part of their Liver Beware Project, a friendly reminder to keep an eye on this hardworking organ of ours.

Why not take advantage of this freebie? It's quick, easy, and you might learn something new about your body. Plus, it's a great excuse to get out of the house!

READERS LETTERS

This is Your Chance To Be Heard!

Simply reply to this email with your thoughts and concerns about our city.

Leave us a tip on the latest discount you’ve discovered, or a special event some of our senior friends may enjoy taking part in, and we may give well include it in the next edition.

We always appreciate feedback too, so please feel free to suggest or critique as and when you need to.

DISCOUNTS

Shoppers Drug Mart

Get over to Shoppers on a Thursday to enjoy 20% off most items with a PC Optimum Card.

Bulk Barn

Seniors who provide valid ID can enjoy 15% off all merchandise on Wednesdays.

Subway

Get 10% off every day of the week for those that are 60 and over with a valid ID.

Remember friends, it never hurts to ask for a seniors discount no matter where you are.

MEMORY LANE

Step back in time with this charming video of Vancouver's from 1958

See familiar sights like Stanley Park and Lion's Gate Bridge, and rediscover the city's unique blend of British and American influences. A must-watch for nostalgic Vancouverites!

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

Community Centre Spotlight

Here is a list of almost all senior friendly events happening this week at one of our local Community Centres.

Britannia Community Centre

• Osteofit Set I: Mondays at 11:00 AM, fitness for seniors.

• Yoga for Aging Well (50+): Mondays at 2:15 PM.

• Line Dancing (55+): Tuesdays at 1:00 PM.

• Badminton 55+: Wednesdays and Saturdays at various times.

Champlain Heights Community Centre

• Recreational Bridge: Wednesdays from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Creekside Community Recreation Centre

• Mahjong: Thursdays from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Douglas Park Community Centre

• Seniors Weekend Crafts and Activities: Saturdays from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

Dunbar Community Centre

• Yuan Ji Dance: Mondays and Fridays at 9:00 AM.

• Intermediate/Advanced Chicago Style Bridge: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 12:45 PM.

• Mah Jong Advanced: Thursdays from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

False Creek Community Centre

• Bridge Practice: Mondays at 12:15 PM.

• Creative Endeavours: Tuesdays from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Hillcrest Community Centre

• Karaoke Drop-In: Sundays from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

• Zumba Gold (Beginner): Tuesdays and Fridays at 5:20 PM and 9:30 AM respectively.

Kensington Community Centre

• Mah Jong & Big Two & Board Games: Sundays from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM.

• Coffee/Tea Bar at Kensington: Tuesdays from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

• Seniors Karaoke: Tuesdays from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Kerrisdale Community Centre

• Video Movies: Sundays from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.

• Bridge: Mondays from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM.

• Angel's Mind Matters: Mondays from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM.

Killarney Community Centre

• Luk Tung Kuen Association: Mondays and Fridays from 7:15 AM to 8:45 AM.

• Ballroom Dance - Mon AM: Mondays at 9:00 AM.

• Seniors Only Billiards: Mondays and Fridays from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

Kitsilano Community Centre

• Duplicate Bridge: Tuesdays and Fridays from 6:15 PM to 9:45 PM.

• Coffee Social: Wednesdays from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM.

Marpole-Oakridge Community Centre

• Seniors' Social and Games: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Mount Pleasant Community Centre

• Mah Jong: Wednesdays from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Renfrew Park Community Centre

• Table Tennis for Seniors: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00 AM to 11:45 AM.

• Karaoke in Chinese: Fridays from 12:15 PM to 2:45 PM.

Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre

• Mah Jong: Mondays and Tuesdays from 9:00 AM to 12:45 PM.

• Chess - Social Drop-In: Tuesdays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

• Bridge: Tuesdays from 1:00 PM to 4:45 PM.

Strathcona Community Centre

• Wellness Program: Tuesdays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Sunset Community Centre

• Live Music and Social with Simon & May: Mondays from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

• Karaoke Drop-In (Tue/Thu): Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00 PM to 2:45 PM.

• Senior Social Dance (Thu): Thursdays from 1:15 PM to 3:15 PM.

Thunderbird Community Centre

• Social, Lunch and Games: Tuesdays from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

West End Community Centre

• Bridge Duplicate - Tue/Thu: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Thank you for reading this week’s edition of The Vancouver Sage newsletter.

Stay cool, take care, and we’ll see you next week.