Tag Archives: Commercial Drive

Earth Day Events In East Vancouver April 21 & 22, 2018

17 Apr

EarthDay2018It’s Earth Day this weekend and we should celebrate this lovely planet we call home and do everything we can for it. We’ve set out below a number of events celebrating Earth Day:

Commercial Drive – Earth Day Parade & Festival, Saturday, April 21st 

The 8th Annual Earth Day Parade & Festival takes place this Saturday, April 21st in East Vancouver. You are invited to come out to this family-friendly event. This year’s parade kicks off at 1:00 pm from Commercial and Broadway and continues to Grandview Park where the festival portion will continue from 1:45 pm to 3:00 pm. There will be a host of activities for all ages.  For those that get hungry, there will be a few food trucks on hand, with of course some great coffee shops and other eateries close by on The Drive.

Everett Crowley Park Earth Day Celebration – April 21st

Volunteers are back at Everett Crowley Park this Saturday, April 21st planting trees, native shrubs and pollinating insects. Organizers have partnered with the Vancouver Park Board and Wildcoast Ecological Society and will be leading a salmon berry planting along the banks of Kinross Creek. The Environmental Youth Alliance will be giving away native plants. There will be interpretative walks along with fresh refreshments. The Vancouver Public Library will also be on hand with books on natural history.   This is an all ages family event and happens from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Earth Day Fundraiser & Student Art Show – Bandidas Taqueria – April 22nd

This Sunday, April 22nd, Bandidas Taqueria will be hosting a community fundraiser, student art show and sidewalk festival in support of RAVEN Trust’s Heiltsuk campaign. This is a business that is committed to environmentally sustainable practices which initiative we applaud.  This is an all day affair that starts at 9:00 am and goes till midnight.   Bandidas Taqueria will be featuring regular brunch inside as well as a sidewalk festival outside.   They have partnered with Victory Gardens who will be on hand with seeds and seedlings for sale, Earnest Ice Cream’s truck will be parked out front will ALL proceeds from ice cream sales going to RAVEN Trust. A representative from RAVEN Trust will be on hand to answer questions. Local musicians will be on hand throughout the day to provide entertainment outdoors.   If that isn’t action packed enough, six classrooms from four East Van schools will be showcasing environmental-themed art pieces on their walls over the course of the weekend. Stop by and support this great initiative.  100% of the profits from the sale of food and drink on April 22nd will be donated to RAVEN Trust, an organization which helps indigenous communities fight for environmental protection by offsetting their legal costs. To learn more about the organization, visit RAVEN Trust.

Movie ‘Directly Affected’ Earth Day Screening – Rio Theatre April 22nd

Zack Embree’s, Director, of the compelling new documentary DIRECTLY AFFECTED, takes an in-depth look at the issues surrounding the Kinder Morgan pipeline. Zack will also be in attendance and will participate in a post-screening Q&A, as will some other special guests.  Five years ago Zack Embree set out on a mission to understand the impacts of the Kinder Morgan pipeline on local communities and give a voice back to those who had been ignored by the National Energy Board process.

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Jak’s View: Follow Up To Fets Whiskey Kitchen Raid – Why Did It Happen?

6 Feb

FetsWhiskeyWe are adding another voice to ILiveInEastVan today. We would like to introduce you to Jak King.  If you don’t know him by name, he is a long time resident of East Vancouver. Jak is civic minded, has opinions on a number of issues some light topics, others not and a penchant for history particularly as it relates to Grandview Woodlands.  Jak has his own blog, which we invite you to check out called Jak’s View.  With his permission, we will be reprinting some of his posts here from time to time.  Today we’d like to share Jak’s View on the recent raid of Fets Whiskey Kitchen on Commercial Drive. This event boggles our mind. So many small businesses are struggling with increasing costs such as taxes, rent, attracting and keeping staff with rising costs in Vancouver, this antiquated raid was a slap in the face to small business. Instead of helping small business, this heavy handed approach to enforce antiquated laws seemed beyond fair or reasonable.   We invite you to check out Jak’s View on this recent event:

As I reported earlier, and has been widely reported since, Fets Whiskey Kitchen on Commercial Drive was raided last week and $40,000 worth of bottles were seized by agents of the BC government.

At the time there was some mystery as to why this had happened, but the reason has now been made clear — they were purchased from private liquor stores (which had purchased them legally from the BC Liquor Distribution Branch) rather than from the BCLDB directly. All required taxes had been paid but these bars are only allowed to buy their liquor from the BCLDB — even though the BCLDB won’t sell them these particular whiskeys.

It is worth repeating that all required taxes had been paid.  In other words, this is all about the bureaucratic nonsense that is BC’s liquor laws.

Apparently bars and clubs have been buying from private liquor outlets for years and liquor inspectors have allowed it to go on. Now, suddenly, the Ministry under David Eby has decided to stamp down on the practice. They could, of course, have changed the law so that BCLDB could sell these whiskeys to the bars but no, they wanted to play the heavy instead.

In a long article by Martyn Brown, he suggests that the “prohibition style” raids may have been occasioned by the money laundering crisis in BC casinos:

“It is in an interesting coincidence, I’m sure, that this crackdown has occurred only days after Attorney General Eby launched his own scathing indictment of the inept gaming policy enforcement and money laundering problems that transpired under the former government’s watch. No doubt, the last thing the general manager or others in the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch want to do is to leave the branch vulnerable to being accused of falling short in its enforcement responsibilities.”

However, as the same article notes, the raids have done nothing to enhance BC’s image as a tourist friendly Province. Perhaps more importantly for locals, Eric Fergie of Fet’s notes that his small business could suffer badly.

“Fergie said he’s now worried how his small business will absorb the cost. ‘If we are fined heavily for the infractions and we lose our product, then, you know, we’ve got 20-something people that work for us and it’s going to be difficult’.”

Eric and Allura Fergie have been mainstays of Commercial Drive business since opening their original Fettucini’s Cafe in 1987.

Reprinted With Permission (Jan. 21, 2018)

Photo Credits: Jak King & Fets Whiskey Kitchen

 

 

 

 

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Weekly Stories At The Drive Coffee Bar

3 Jan

WeeklyStoriesIf you love storytelling, whether watching or listening to it in an intimate venue, then you may wish to check out Weekly Stories at The Drive Coffee Bar, 1670 Commercial Drive located near 1st Avenue.  This 1 hour storytelling show is hosted by local organizer extraordinaire Jo Dworschak of Story Story Lie and Coop Radio’s Fruit Salad.  You will hear tales from some seasoned storytellers, but each week they do try and get a new face up to take a turn.  The venue is a favourite of ours for the great coffee, selection of Cartem Donuts and some of the best sandwiches in the City by La Grotta del Fromaggio plus they also serve wine and beer.  Event runs from 7:30 to 9:00 pm every Wednesday night.  Admission is by donation. If you have a story to share, stop by and sign up or email Jo in advance at e: storystoryshows@gmail.com.

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Super Valu – 24/7 365 Days A Year

21 Dec

FruitColourfulWho has not been stuck preparing for dinner and realized you forgot that one thing you needed for a recipe, or had unexpected company and you don’t quite have enough of something. Did you know that the Super Valu at 1st Avenue & Commercial Drive is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year? Yup, that means on Christmas Day when everything else is closed, Super Valu is there for you in your hour of need to save the day.  After stopping in last year shortly after Christmas, we learnt that people travelled quite a distance from outlying areas just to pick up a few needed items.  For those making the trip by car, there is free underground parking for the first 45 minutes, you just need to register your license plate at a machine near the elevator in the parkade which will issue you a receipt. If you need to grab some fresh flowers as a hostess gift, they’ve got you covered there as well.  If you are a senior, take note on Wednesdays, you can do your shop and have your groceries delivered to your door within a 5 KM radius FREE of charge. If you are a senior you can get your groceries delivered any other day of the week for $5.50.   If you are a non-senior, delivery is an option for you as well for $10 they will deliver them to you within a 5 KM radius.  Note, they will even be doing deliveries on December 24th, but not December 25th and 26th.  We think having a grocery store open 24/7 365 days a year is a pretty cool thing to have in one’s back yard. Nice to know they are there if you need them.

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Shop Local With These East Van Shops

19 Dec

WhiteChristmasFinished your Christmas shopping? If not, the countdown is on. We recommend skipping the craziness that is the malls. Why not stop into one of these great local businesses that will a) not only appreciate the business, but b) offer some truly great service.  We’ve set out a few of our favourite spots we think are great for gift giving. Note, many of the stores have extended hours this week to help you with your Christmas shopping.

Les amis du fromage – 843 East Hastings Street

For the cheese lover, this is a great spot, but that’s not all they have.  They have a host of kitchen accessories and gourmet condiments perfect for giving gift.  Add to that, they are hosting a Sweet Pop Up Shop with delish items from Lisa Lou’s Chocolate Bar until December 24th.  If you know a true cheese lover, take note of their upcoming Wine & Cheese Tasting classes in the New Year.

Gourmet Warehouse, 1340 East Hastings Street

Who does not love to receive great food at Christmas?  There is such an array of delectable food items in store at Gourmet Warehouse whether for entertaining over the holidays or gift giving.  You can find just about everything here whether it’s small appliances, knives, condiments, baking items or maybe a gift certificate for an upcoming cooking class. There are lots of great gift ideas in store.  This week, they are making it easy for you. Gourmet Warehouse is open 10:00 am to 8:00 pm until December 22nd. Saturday, December 23rd 9:00 am to 6:00 pm and December 24th 8:30 to 4:30 pm.

Bird On A Wire Creations, 2535 Main Street

Bird On A Wire Creations is located near Kingsway on Main Street and features a host of new as well as established Canadian artists. They have an amazing selection of one-of-a-kind items.    If you missed artisan markets and craft fairs, you will find many of local makers in this store.  They are are open 10:00 am to 7:00 pm this week.

Giving Gifts Co., 4570 Main Street

Giving Gifts is a unique concept store made up of 5 rooms with items from over 70 local artists and small businesses in one lovely boutique shop.  The items are also eco-friendly and fair trade made. This store also has a great selection of gifts for kids and toddlers.

Little Mountain Pop Up Shop, 4386 Main Street

The Little Mountain Pop Up Shop is currently hosting ‘Holid-eh!’ featuring over 20 Canadian makers.  A few participants include Fox & Fancy, Bar Skin Bar, True North Trading Post and more.  They are open for holiday shopping until December 24th from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and for those last minute shoppers, December 24th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Olive & Wild, 4391 Main Street

If you are looking for some beautiful unique home décor items for gift giving this year, we recommend checking out Olive & Wild. Lots of beautiful items in store sourced locally and globally.

Second Nature Home, 3565 Commercial Street

Second Nature Home is great little shop just steps away from the Commercial Street Café in a great little stretch of road nestled next to the Toso Wood Gallery.  It boasts an array of eco-friendly items from Canadian artisans many of them local.  There is a wide selection of products and we might add great knowledgeable service. This week, they are open Monday to Saturday from 10:30 am to 9:00 pm and Sunday, December 24th from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.

Doctor Vigari Gallery, 1816 Commercial Drive

Doctor Vigari on The Drive boasts quite a collection of art from BC and Canadian artists whether you are looking for large or small pieces, there’s lots of choose from including tiles, prints, jewellery, sculptures, furniture, ceramics and much more.  Also framing is available in store to finish off that perfect piece of art whether purchased in store or elsewhere.

Lala’s On The Drive, 1748 Commercial Drive

A newer addition to The Drive, Lala’s has an array of gift giving items, some silly, some sassy, many just plain fun.  Lots of unique items for gift giving.

Wherever you shop, we hope you will continue to support our local businesses.

 

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Oh Man! At Havana Theatre December 8 & 9, 2017

4 Dec

OhManOh Man! is coming to Havana Theatre this Friday and Saturday.  Jo Dworschak, creator and producer of Story Story Lie, has put together a multimedia monologue about a mom trying to overcome her fear of men before having one.  With some assistance from TJ Dawe, a respected playwright, actor and director, Jo Dworschak has put together this autobiographical production which features some problematic relationships with men in her family life, to learn she’s pregnant and having a boy.  The production won Best Solo Show at the Montana Fringe Festival and this week’s show will be the first showing in Vancouver and possibly the last.  Jo bills this show as “humorous, heart warming and the perfect night out for the parent”.  You can catch her show Friday, December 8th and Saturday, December 9th at Havana Theatre. Tickets are $10 and available through Eventbrite or at the door. Show kicks off at 8:00 pm. Partial proceeds will be given to “Together We Can”, a support group to help me in need.

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New In Town: Gatley On Commercial Drive

28 Nov

IMG_1587We recently stopped in to check out another new addition on Commercial Drive recently, Gatley.  Well the store isn’t entirely new, but it has been taken over by a new owner, Erin. She has a background in interior design and was planning a different career trajectory, but was a fan and regular customer of Gatley.  After several conversations with the previous owner, a plan formed for Erin to take over the store. You can certainly see the evolution of the store and the new additions. The store previously was a bit on the sparse side, but that is no longer the case.  Erin has curated a great selection of Canadian made products, many local which include clothing, shoes, accessories, some bath products, jewellery and a bit of home décor.  Speaking of décor, you will find Erin’s interior design touches throughout the store which make for an inviting space.  Gatley is located at 1136 Commercial Drive just steps away from the Portugal Club of Vancouver.  Stop in and see what’s in store.

 

 

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New In Town: Your Open Closet On Commercial Drive

21 Nov

We stopped in to check out a brand new store located at 902 Commercial Drive called Your Open Closet.  The store may be new, but the owners are not new to business, as they also own Womyns’ Ware just down the street.  We learnt that customers were coming into Womyns’ Ware looking for undergarments which they didn’t have, so this new business was born.  Having said that, Your Open Closet is not your everyday lingerie store.  Although they do carry panties, lingerie, boxers, stockings, socks, bras and the like, something does set them apart. Your Open Closet has created a body positive space for their customers of all genders and orientation with an emphasis on zero judgment.   There are no harsh bright lights in store, they have some very cool subdued lighting. If you are paying attention when you walk in, you will see a case of records off to the side and a record player which is their sound system. The undergarments chosen have a local and Canadian focus which we always love to see.  This is a great space, perfect for the upcoming shopping this holiday season. Your Open Closet has only been open 3 weeks as of this writing and if they don’t have what you are looking for, let them know.  They are open to suggestions as to what you’d like to see in store. Stop by and check out this new space located at the corner of Venables & Commercial Drive.

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Vancouver Fringe Previews At Havana Theatre August 29 – September 2, 2017

16 Aug

 

The Vancouver Fringe Festival happens September 7 to 17, 2017 at various venues around the City.  Havana Theatre tucked away in the back of Havana Restaurant on Commercial Drive is again hosting a sneak preview of some of the upcoming shows.  These will be full versions of the performances coming during the festival. This is your chance to catch them before they sell out.  We’ve run down which shows they will be featuring during the preview. Tickets for all shows are $10 and available at the door.

Tightrope Talking – August 29, 2017 – 7:00 pm

Time spent in a Berkeley slammer – lane-dancing with a dealer — cars and sex through the ages – obituaries – bus drivers — Marylee Stephenson is upping the story ante by outsourcing the topic to the audience! You name it, she tells it, in a dynamic, suspenseful combination of instantly well-crafted stories. No two shows can ever be the same!

Blue River Blues – August 29, 2017 – 9:00 pm

What do you do when you’re surrounded by gorbies and the glacier you’rr standing on is slowing melting into the sea? This one-person storytelling is about the summer Jim spend as a Snowmobile Tour Guide at the Columbia Icefields in Jasper National Park. There he fended off gorbies (slang for pesky tourists) and had a summer of adventures that resonated through the rest of his life. The story is told against the backdrop of the magnificent Athabasca Glacier which has been flowing and receding for over 250,000 years but which is expected to disappear within the next 150 years.

Almost A Stepmom – August 31, 2017 – 7:00 pm

Based on a true story. Keara moved to Ireland. She fell in love. Then she became a stepmom well almost. This is a darkly comic tale about the ups and downs of becoming a stepmother. The show includes multiple characters and a murder attempt round off this tumultuous and touching solo show. In case you hadn’t heard, Almost a Stepmom played to critical acclaim at multiple festivals throughout Western Canada, most recently winning the Emerging Artist Award at the 2016 Calgary Fringe Festival.

Shades of Dave – August 31, 2017-  9:00 pm

A loving tribute and erotic parody of The Vinyl Cafe. Fifty Shades of Dave thrusts Dave and Morley into situations you’ve never heard on the CBC. All the warmth and wit of Stuart McLean’s beloved stories with a sexy twist.

The Euphio Question – September 1, 2017 – 7:00 pm 

Stage adaptation of Vonnegut’s 1951 short story about a young physicist who discovers radio waves from outer space that, when amplified and broadcast, make anyone within earshot completely and utterly euphoric. The Euphio Question asks audiences what the true cost of happiness is when it comes at the mere the flick of a switch?

No Big Deal – September 1, 2017-  9:00 pm

A young woman, her boyfriend, and the man who assaulted her on a bus each tells their story. Each is telling the truth, but each is trying to make us believe something. In the end, what makes a sexual assault no big deal?

Katherine Ferns Is In Stitches – September 2, 2017 – 9:00 pm

Brutally funny storytelling show from Manchester-based comedian Katharine Ferns is a comedic journey about learning to laugh at the visible and invisible scars of surviving mental illness, domestic violence, drug addiction plus some feminism for comic relief. Obviously, the story begins on April 21st, 2016 the day Prince passed away and Katharine ends up in stitches (literally). Come to the show and you’ll end up in stitches too (figuratively).

Draining the Swamp – September 3, 2017 – 2:00 pm

The play tells the story of a business leader who travels to a dangerous foreign location intending to enrich the country by building a new luxury resort on unusable swampland. He runs into trouble when he’s forced to shoot a trusted employee and is taken to court.

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1st Annual East Van Cider Fest August 16, 2017 At The Wise Hall

2 Aug

VancouverCiderFestLiberty Merchant Company presents the 1st Annual East Van Cider Fest on Wednesday, August 16th, 2017 at the Wise Hall, 1882 Adanac Street. In case you hadn’t heard the news, some are touting cider as the new craft beer. However, some say craft beer has paved the way for new industries in the craft beverage market such as distilled spirits, mead and, thankfully for us, craft cider. However you slice it, we are pleased to see this new growing industry of small cideries. The 1st Annual East Van Cider Fest will be featuring cider, mead and spirits from all over BC. The evening will also feature tasty bites from local businesses, a silent auction and door prizes which directly support the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society.   Tickets for the event are $24.99 and you are asked to bring a non-perishable food event with you. Your ticket includes 10 tasting tokens, a welcome cocktail and a keepsake glass. To purchase your tickets, visit any Liberty Wine Merchants location. In East Vancouver, you can visit them at 1622 Commercial Drive or call them at 604.633.1922. The event gets under way at 7:00 p.m. and goes till 9:00 pm. If you wish to learn more about BC’s growing cider industry, we invite you to check out this informative write up by What’s Brewing.

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