MUSIC IN THE SQUARE

In its third year, this concert series expanded to include 16 Saturdays (June-Sept).

Music included everything from classic Canadian singer-songwriter favourites to swing, bluegrass, soft-rock, French chanson, smooth Latin, Celtic, and more. 

Special thanks go to Beth, Susan D., Trina, Pat, Monica, Anita, Marion, Jo-Anne, Anne, all of the musicians and others who helped with chairs, canopies, etc. Thanks also for donations to Leg-In-Boot through the FCSNA, which enable honoraria for many of the musicians, and to the Vancouver Foundation’s Neighbourhood Small Grants and the FCSNA for purchase of four canopies.

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IRISH DAY

Of the many musical occasions, Irish Day deserves special mention. Hosted and organized by IRL Group, the construction and hospitality company with owners and offices in the neighbourhood, the event drew a young and family-friendly crowd of over 150. 

With the Square roped off under a Special Event license, beer was served and people were entertained by wonderfully skilled Irish dancers, along with music and song both joyful and nostalgic. Special thanks to IRL Group, especially William and Brian.

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SWAP MEET, CRAFT SALE 

Two other Saturday events drew visitors to the Square. A “Buy/Sell/Gift” event on June 25 focused on recycling used-yet-useful household goods. On August 13 a Craft and Art Fair featured 12 local False Creek vendors. Special thanks to Monty and Mary and their respective teams of volunteers for these two events.

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AGE-FRIENDLY CONVERSATIONS 

The Neighbourhood Association’s Age-Friendly Working Group held a series of community conversations in June and July to engage local interest in ageing-related concerns and explore ideas for future developments. 

Sessions included informative presentations on different aspects of ageing well. Special thanks to Evan A., Susan D., their team of volunteers and especially the resource people who presented at the different sessions. 

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AFTERNOON TEAS

Convivial’s Afternoon Tea, complete with white tablecloth and fine china, created a new forum for informal social connection over pay-what-you-can tea and treats. Initially coordinated with the Community Conversations, everyone was encouraged to come along: start with an age/mobility-friendly walking group, then join in pleasant conversations among neighbours, with board games provided. These relaxed social occasions will continue into the Fall. Special thanks to Magdalena, Susan D. and the others who helped bring this together. 

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It should come as no surprise that all this activity has required hundreds of volunteer hours from many contributors for everything from planning, grant writing, advertising and hosting events to setting up and striking canopies, furniture and other equipment. Beth’s dedication to the idea of community and her commitment to realizing it through both the Convivial Café and its Leg-In-Boot home provides exemplary leadership in serving our wonderful neighbourhood.