Vancouver Blog Miss 604 by Rebecca Bollwitt

Switzerland: On the Train, Up a Mountain

2009-11-20T21:51:01Z

We set out from Zurich to Chur by bus then hopped on the Rhätische Bahn to ride the rails over to St Moritz.

To gain altitude heading toward the Easter Swiss Alps, the train twists and turns its way through tunnels and over bridges, gradually making a climb. This series of spirals and arched bridges earned the line UNESCO World Heritage status.

We rode in the very last car which was decked out in carved pine, which is a trait of the region, and dined on meats, cheeses, and wine.

I fell in love with train travel when I took the Rocky Mountaineer a few months ago and I have to say rolling through the Swiss countryside cranked my adoration for this mode of travel up to 11.

At one point we simply had to head into the 1st class car, drop the windows, and snap every photo and video that we could to capture even the slightest essence of the area’s beauty.

Hopping off the train just shy of St Moritz we were whisked away to the base of the Alps to ride a gondola up to the top of Diavolezza. I live in a city surrounded by mountains (and I’ve even hiked my fair share) but there is simply no comparison anywhere else in the world to these majestic towers of ice and snow.

At the top, we had the chance to have a drink with Christian Meili, a Swiss bobsleigh champion (competed in Lillehammer and Albertville), who is active in the St Moritz bobsleigh club. We’ll be visiting the Olympia Bob Run tomorrow so I’ll fill in some of Meili’s insights on that post.

I started to feel light-headed and a bit woozy at the peak when we were walking around in the snow and the group came to realize just how high up we were. In comparison, at the bottom of the gondola we were already at three times the height of Whistler’s peak. 15 minutes later atop Diavolezza and it was a whole other world.

I’m going to let many of these photos speak for themselves although my camera could not even capture the millions of shades of blue that were glistening off every peak, rock face, and snow cap looking down on our group.

Tonight we’re staying in St Moritz before heading back to Zurich for our final night in Switzerland. I have at least 5 other posts up my sleeve but those will have to wait until morning. As Vancouver gets through their Friday workday, the sun has already tucked itself behind the mountains as I write this by moonlight. All I can say is, what a day.

You can view the rest of my photos from my Switzerland trip in this photo set, and read all posts here.

Diavolezza - St Moritz [Flickr]

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miss604 posted a photo:

Christian Meili

Diavolezza - St Moritz [Flickr]

2009-11-20T13:12:00-08:00

miss604 posted a photo:

Diavolezza - St Moritz [Flickr]

2009-11-20T13:11:57-08:00

miss604 posted a photo:

Diavolezza - St Moritz [Flickr]

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miss604 posted a photo:

Diavolezza - St Moritz [Flickr]

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miss604 posted a photo:

Christian Meili

Switzerland: Zurich

2009-11-20T17:35:42Z

It’s official; my clothing will smell like cheese for the next few days and I don’t mind a bit. Last night we had fondue with Béda Zengg, the man who will be in charge of catering at the House of Switzerland in Vancouver and Whistler during the 2010 Olympic Games.

Originally from Ontario, Béda’s family is Swiss and he has spent most of his adult life over here (even completing his tour in the Swiss Army). He joined us at Adler’s Swiss Chuchi in Zurich and told us all the proper way to prepare and feast upon the cheesy dish, which is as much a social event as it is a dinning experience.

During 2010 he will be preparing not only Swiss traditions such as fondue but also modern delicacies that the country can bring to the table and offer its athletes and guests.

After the fondue, we headed over to the Hollenstadion (the country’s only multi-purpose arena) to watch EV-Zug take on the ZCS Lions in tournament play. We were swept up to a private box and greeted by Florian Zimmerman from EV-Zug to get a rundown of the differences between the NHL and Swiss hockey league play.

The crowd of bout 6,000 was chanting as though it were a football match, calling out players’ names in unison and taunting the opposing fans that sat across the arena. The pace was quick, the clock ran up (instead of down), the rink was wide, and if there was any inkling of a fight at all, play was stopped. The Lions came out on top with a strong 4-1 finish and we even got to see some play from former Vancouver Canuck, Josh Holden.

I also came to realize that no matter what country you are in, hockey arena music is pretty much all the same as our ears were treated to AC/DC, Def Leppard, Bryan Adams and even a special Nickelback roundup.

Following the game Doug Shedden coach of EVZug (also former Maple Leaf & Nordiques player) came up to the box to chat with our group. Shedden coached team Finland to a bronze medal in the 2008 World Championships and has a real passion for not only the game of hockey, but also being a part of the Swiss league. He jested that road games don’t mean over-nighters across the continent, moreso a short bus ride home (or the equivalent of about two beers). With a maximum of about 400km to travel to play a visiting team, it’s nothing compared to thousands of miles NHL teams must travel to meet opposing conference rivals.

In the past year I’ve experienced hockey games from Burnaby, to Vancouver, and even Moline, Illinois. However, being able to witness European hockey at this level (and in Switzerland to boot) is the ultimate hockey pilgrimage for a fan like me.

Link Fest: End of November Events

2009-11-19T23:16:11Z

The City is hopping as high winds gust through what’s left of the leaves on the oak-lined streets. Even though I’m currently sitting in the Marriott in Zurich overlooking the Limmat River I’m missing out on a lot back home. Luckily, I have saved up a big stack of emails so I can unleash this hefty month-end Link Fest.

Reminder, the National Yoga Challenge is this weekend at the Richmond Olympic Oval.

TEDx Vancouver takes place this Saturday.

Twitter and Facebook told me there’s a flash mob happening on Saturday as well regarding the BC arts cuts, Meetup at noon on the nose over on Granville between Robson and Georgia.

Apparently the “Real Santa” arrived last Friday already at Richmond Centre.

In honor of the film Ninja Assassin, bloggers and Tweeters are encourage to come out to play some laser tag at Planet Laser in Richmond starting at noon on Saturday. Test your ninja skills (with lasers) and the Top 3 winners from each game will receive an exclusive movie prize package with passes to the advance screening and other promotional items.

Fabiola Carletti is inviting you to her birthday party this weekend at Science World (grown ups only, cash bar).

Hearth Therapy is an art show in the Downtown Eastside that is kicking off this weekend as a party of the Eastside Cultural Crawl. It will feature Pamela Masik’s work, “Uncovering Vision: A Discovery of Art Forms by Men and Women on the Downtown East Side” at Maurice McElrea Place (361 Heatley Ave). The showcase will run from November 20th & 21st (4:00pm – 10:00pm) until Sunday (11:00am – 6:00pm).

Heading into the first week of December, CBC Radio Food Bank Day is December 4th.

And head out to LaFarge Lake in Coquitlam on December 6th for the Light the Lake Festival.

Photo credit: nonstopdesign on Flickr

Finally, Make It Vancouver (@MakeItShow) kicks off again tomorrow at the Croatian Cultural Centre. This multi-day event showcases some of the best fashion, designs, artsy, crafty, and hand-made items you’ll find in town.

They have offered up a special promotion so if you are one of the first 20 people to walk through the door and let them know you heard about the event through this site, your admission fee is covered. That’s it. Just say you read about Make It Vancouver on Miss604.com and you’re in.

What if you’re not within the first 20? What if you want to bring a friend? Easy, just click here, print the 2 for 1 ticket, bring it on in and you’re all set. There, now there’s no reason to miss this season’s Make It Vancouver event.

I’ll see you back in Vancouver next week and in the meantime if you have an event you would like to promote in some way through Miss604.com, please feel free to contact me.

Switzerland: Lausanne to Bern

2009-11-19T21:23:08Z

Waking up this morning in Lausanne, Switzerland my group headed over to the International Olympic Committee headquarters for a tour. We saw the top secret meeting rooms, the VIP meeting rooms, the grounds, the buildings, and even some protesters outside. However, I’ll be covering the IOC and the Museum in another post, which will be much more Olympic in size.

We left Lausanne, which is definitely worth revisiting; if not for the history or the fact that it’s home to dozens of worldwide sports federation headquarters, but for the breathtaking scenery at the foot of the Alps along Lake Geneva.

Bowling through the countryside on the highway I looked out on what seemed to be something straight out of a Grant Wood painting. With the Alps behind us the rolling hills, clustered towns, and green pastures reminded me of another place I know well.

There were no cows with bells around their necks, and no girls up on the hills in pigtails, just small towns, fast speed limits, and plenty of tunnels that take you from point A to point B in no time at all.

Arriving in the Swiss capital of Bern we had lunch with Chef de Mission for Swiss Olympics, Erich Hanselmann. I’ll cover more of our discussion in another post, when I include the IOC and Olympic Museum visit. We have been lucky to be accompanied by Dr. Sibylle Ambühl throughout our trip and after lunch at Cafe Federal, she showed us the parliament (since it is the Swiss capital) and gave us a quick walking tour of the city.

Founded in the 1100s it was rebuilt after a fire in the 1500s. Since that time, no buildings have been replaced or torn down leaving only their historic facades. What you see are the original buildings dating back to the 16th century rebuild and the entire town is a UNESCO world heritage site.

I completely fell in love with the city within minutes but we had little time to spare before hitting the road once again. It’s mix of old and new was dazzling. We walked by Einstein’s house, which was just above a Lush soap shop, and watched with fingers poised above our shutter buttons as a 1600s clock chimed in the hour (as though it was high noon in Gastown).

We have just arrived in Zurich after what seemed to be a rush hour trek between the two major cities. I’m not going to lie, waiting for traffic to move in tunnels is not something that makes me feel at ease however after watching a recent Discovery Channel special with John about the mad tunnel-building skills of this country, I felt slightly better.

I’d love to share more and describe the sights and sounds in detail but we’re off to a hockey game at Hallenstadion. I can’t wait until I have more time to document (and digest) some of the magnificent views and scenes I have experienced so far.

Switzerland: Geneva and Lausanne

2009-11-19T02:24:25Z

I am currently laying amongst the cloud-like pillows of the Beau-Rivage Palace in Lausanne, Switzerland. Along with journalists and members of the media I will be spending the next 4 days exploring Switzerland, learning about the country, and even how it will be represented at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games.

Our flight was long (and held-over in London) so we arrived at night and haven’t been able to see much of our surroundings. Luckily we were greeted by Dr. Sibylle Ambühl, from Presence Switzerland who gave us a crash-course in everything Swiss. She amazingly managed to explain all the basics of the geography, political system, military, electoral process, education, and health care infrastructure during the ride from the airport. She said that many other countries have lakes, mountains, snow, agriculture, and metropolitan cities however Switzerland has all of that packed into 41,000 square kilometers (which is about 25 times smaller than British Columbia).

Tomorrow will kick off our expedition as we say goodbye to the Beau-Rivage and head to IOC Headquarters and the Olympic Museum. From there, we’ll take trains and buses across the entire country — exploring and uncovering all that makes Switzerland tick.

This will be my first night in a 19th century hotel (where the Treaty of Lausanne was signed) so sleep is the first part of my adventure.

When the sun rises I’ll be able to look out the window and truly get a grasp on my surroundings. Over the next few days, I hope to share all of the elements of Switzerland that make it much more than a nation of cheese, chocolate, and finely crafted watches.

Vancouver History: Before and After – Apartments 2

2009-11-18T15:39:52Z

I am currently traveling to Switzerland on a media trip although I’ve come to a halt at Heathrow in London. My first flight to Geneva has been canceled due to weather (or as the pilot said “wind so fast it’s bound to turn your umbrella inside out.”)

As such, I thought it would be a good time to prepare a blog post since I’m currently 9 hours ahead of Vancouver and likely to pass out upon arrival in my Swiss hotel. I’m not sure when I’ll wake up or what day it might be but please enjoy this next installment of the “Then and Now” photo series.

1924
Davie at Thurlow

Photographer: WJ Moore, Item #: Bu N324

2009

1928
10th at Hemlock

Photographer: WJ Moore, Item #: Bu N252

2009

1936
Tudor Manor, 1311 Beach Avenue

Photographer: Stuart Thomson, Item #: CVA 99-4913

2009

1940s
Cambie at West 23rd

Photographer: Jack Lindsay, Item #: CVA 1184-1939

2009

Sources: The older images are courtesy of the City of Vancouver Archives and the 2009 images have been screen-captured from Google Street Views.

This is my second “apartment” theme but if you have any suggestions for a future “Then and Now” series please feel free to drop me a comment.

SportsFunder Win 20 Gold Tickets Contest

2009-11-18T00:34:23Z

SportsFunder and BCLC are presenting a new batch of themed Scratch & Win tickets that give you the chance to win tickets to the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver. The grand prize on the scratch ticket is a twenty-pack (yes, twenty) of tickets to the Men’s Hockey Gold Medal game.

I got my paws on three of these tickets (courtesy of BCLC) and I’ll give two away to a lucky reader. I’ve done the first one myself — I didn’t win anything but hey, that makes the chances all that much better for you. I did however go online and enter my Scratch & Win card number to enter the online draw as well.

You can purchase any of these participating Scratch & Win tickets for your chance to win from BCLC and SportsFunder:

$5 Going for Gold
$10 Vancouver 2010 Lottery
$5 2010 Ice Hockey
$5 Winning Moments, Coming Soon January 4, 2010

You can also enter an online draw by logging into the Players eClub and entering your ticket’s control number once you’ve scratched the playing areas. Full details and contest rules can be found online.

For your chance to Scratch & Win, please leave a comment below to enter to win my other two tickets and I’ll draw a winner in a few days.

John and The Crazy Canucks podcast were also given some tickets to give away so stay tuned for updates on more chances to win.

Remember, players must be 19 years of age or older to purchase, play or redeem (so to win this one you must be 19 or older). Know your limit, play within it.

About SportsFunder: Proceeds from the sale of SportsFunder lottery games are directed to amateur sports in B.C. To date, SportsFunder lottery games have directed $4.1 million to amateur sports, helping over 12,000 kids throughout British Columbia play sports. Proceeds from SportsFunder lottery games are directed to amateur sports through the following four programs: KidSport™, Team BC, Youth Sport Travel Assistance, Coach and Leadership Development

National Yoga Challenge with Yoga4Kidz

2009-11-17T17:07:43Z

Photo credit: kharied

This weekend the National Yoga Challenge will take place at the Olympic Oval in Richmond and the Yoga Sanctuary in Toronto. This 3rd annual event will run November 20th until the 22nd to support UNICEF’s Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS campaign.

The National Yoga Challenge is presented by Yoga4Kidz as it encourages instructors, health enthusiasts, and those passionate about contributing to a cause to join in this weekend. Thousands of men, women, children and their families across the country and beyond will come together to practice yoga, and to observe compassionate living.

Participants are encouraged to collect pledges, like you would for a fun run/walk, and can either fundraise on their own or as part of a yoga team. You can register online or pledge to support a participant. You can practice as much yoga as you like throughout the weekend, whether it’s just for 30 minutes or a full 24-hour period (as they have a yogi sleeping area). However, the “challenge” part is that the team that raises the most donations will get free yoga classes for a month.

Find the National Yoga Challenge on Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr for information and updates or drop by the Olympic Oval this weekend to participate.

Reza Peyk Comedy Showcase Giveaway

2009-11-18T23:23:17Z

Photo credit: hiddedevries

Thanks to people like Patrick Maliha and Art Factora I have discovered the glowing community that is the Vancouver comedy scene. I have only scratched the surface but have seen enough to know you’re going to have a good time when you see live comedy in this town.

Art Factora recently gave me two tickets for an upcoming performance that he’d like me to give to a reader. Here are the show details:

Who: Reza Peyk featuring Jy Harris, Sunee Dhaliwal, Art Factora & Kwasi Thomas

What: After touring through-out North America and playing some prestigious venues such as the House of Blues in Las Vegas NV, UMD University in Washington DC, Triple Door in Seattle WA, Panasonic Theatre in Toronto ON, ,& the world famous Laugh Factory in Hollywood CA, Reza Peyk is making his return to his hometown of Vancouver BC with his first solo show since 2007.

Where: Kay Meek Centre, 1700 Mathers Avenue West Vancouver

When: Friday, November 20, 2009 from 8:30pm – 10:30pm (one night only)

Tickets: Call (604) 913-3634 or buy online

To enter, simply leave a comment below or re-tweet this link (http://bit.ly/3XUjSG) and I’ll do the draw tonight for two tickets to this show. Good luck, thanks for spreading the word, and be sure to say “Hi” to Art for me when you attend.

This show will contain Explicit Material and is recommended for individuals 16 years and older.

Update: I just drew Teresa K as the winner, congratulations!

Women in Leadership Foundation SuperWomen & Friends Winter Palace Gala

2009-11-17T21:35:09Z

Photo credit: Lexnger

The Women in Leadership Foundation in Vancouver is hosting their annual gala on November 21st and they would like to invite a Miss604.com reader and a guest to attend this event.

Who:
The Women In Leadership Foundation (WIL) creates inspirational programs that bring women together to collaborate in the development of their leadership skills and creates positive change in the future of women’s leadership in Canada.

What:
2009 SuperWomen & Friends Winter Palace Gala
The gala is a celebration in honor of the SuperWomen around us (and within us) who make a difference in business, the community, and the lives of others. This luxurious Winter Wonderland of fashion, entertainment, makeovers and glamour will have a red carpet, cocktail reception, silent auction, swag bags and more.

When:
Saturday November 21st, 2009 from 5:30pm – 10:00pm

Where:
Fairmont Waterfront Hotel Vancouver (that’s the brand new hotel near the new convention centre)

To enter, please leave a comment below (no more than 100 words) about a SuperWoman in your life that inspires you the most. The winner will be chosen (based on their entry) tomorrow around 3:00pm and given two tickets to the gala on Saturday.

Ticket value $165 x2

Update November 17th, 2009: Thank you to all for your inspiring entries. The winning entry has been selected by the Women in Leadership Foundation and it is by Lili Vieira de Carvalho. Congratulations and I hope you have a great time at the gala!

Vancouver History: Before and After – Apartments

2009-11-16T18:24:27Z

Last week I jumped over part nine and right into part ten of my photo “Then and Now” series. I thought I better make up for it with an actual tenth installment so this week I’m featuring apartment buildings using “before” images from the City of Vancouver Archives, and “after” images from Google Street Views.

1910s
Mt Stephen Block, 7th at Quebec

Photographer: WJ Moore, Item #: SGN 1028

2009

1910s
Florence Court, 1201 Georgia

Photographer: Richard Broadbridge, Item #: M-11-58

2009

1917
Manhattan Apartments, Robson at Thurlow

Photographer: Stuart Thomson, Item #: CVA 99-346

2009

1926
Winchester Apartments, Barclay at Jervis

Photographer: WJ Moore, Item #: Bu N253

2009

1928
The Roxborough, 15th at Fir

Photographer: WJ Moore, Item #: Bu N262

2009

1940s
Cambie at 24th Ave

Photographer: Jack Lindsay, Item #: CVA 1184-1938

2009

Should you have any suggestions for next week’s theme, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Cornucopia Kicks Off the Whistler Ski and Board Season

2009-11-13T05:40:06Z

Cornucopia, Whistler’s yearly food and wine festival kicked off their 13th year tonight with a ”House Party” at the Whistler Conference Center.

Many local beer and wines were on offer along with some amazing cheeses and even local (Pemberton) Vodka.

We’re looking forward to taking in some events tomorrow and Saturday including everything from the Chef’s Challenge and the Chef’s Trip to the Farm, to Flatbreads & Wines along with Bubbles & Oceans at Araxi.

We got lucky this year and the mountain is opening early which will allow us to enjoy our first tracks of the season on Saturday before attending more festivities in the afternoon and evening.

It’s not too late to head on up for some food, wine, beer and snow at Cornucopia 2009. If you can’t make it though, we’ll have more information posted here throughout the weekend so be sure to check back.

Jennifer is on location in Whistler covering Cornucopia for Miss604.com this weekend.

Call for Artists: The Art of Being Together by L’Arche

2009-11-12T18:24:50Z

L’Arche Greater Vancouver is ramping up for a community art showcase fundraiser and they are putting the call out to local artists who would like to participate.

Seeking Artwork Inspired by “Community”
L’Arche Greater Vancouver is seeking submissions by emerging artists for “The Art of Being Together”, an upcoming juried show. Ten finalists will be chosen whose work best reflects the theme of community, sharing life, friendship and inclusiveness. Their work will be purchased by L’Arche for $250 and displayed at the March 6 show where judges will announce their top choice and the public will be invited to vote for “the people’s choice”.

An additional prize will be given for the People’s Choice and the Judges’ Choice Awards. The judges may also choose additional work from submitted art to be on display in the “Honourable Mention” category but those works would not be purchased by L’Arche. This show will also include a gallery of L’Arche art.

L’Arche is an international organization that assists and supports those with developmental disabilities. They have been based in Greater Vancouver for over 30 years and run community homes, day programs, and are involved in an array of community outreach programs. They are a Christian-based society however they assist and support members from a rich diversity of religions, races and cultural backgrounds.

I’ll be involved with the Art of Being Together show which will take place Saturday, March 6, 2010 at the National Nikkei Museum & Heritage Centre in Burnaby. If you are interested in helping out or being a sponsor, please visit the L’Arche website for contact details and specifics for the artwork.

The Peak Performance Project 2009

2009-11-12T23:26:51Z

The Peak Performance Project, also known as the biggest music grant program in Canadian History, wraps up its first year with a final showcase downtown tonight.

Created by 100.5 The Peak and Music BC, this is a $5.29 million program that will run each year (for the next seven years) aiming to develop and boost musical talents from around BC. After the deadline closes each year on May 15th, finalists will receive a training program that will include learning about the music business, live performances, songwriting, marketing and promotion. This will be overseen by some of BC’s top professionals and performers.

From the twenty finalists each year, who will all get the chance to perform live in a Peak Performance Project showcase throughout the year, there will be three winners. First place receives $150,000; second place receives $75,000; and third place receives $50,000.

Finalists for 2009:

Artist – Hometown
Adaline – Vancouver
Adrian Glynn – Vancouver
Alexandria Maillot – Courtenay
Ben Sigston – Vancouver
Bend Sinister – Vancouver
Bodhi Jones – Vancouver
Danny Echo – Burnaby
Familia – Maple Ridge
Freeflow – Vancouver

Garrett Kato – Port Coquitlam
Kuba Oms – Victoria
Run The Red Light – Vancouver
Sweetheart – Vancouver
TÉA – Vancouver
The Left – Langley
The Painted Birds – Vancouver
TV Heart Attack – Vancouver
Wassabi Collective – Nelson
We Are The City – Kelowna

Throughout the year you can follow along with the bootcampers / finalists online and on Twitter (use the search tag: #peak_bootcamp) or by reading their blogs which are setup through the PPP website. The three winners from this group are selected by popular vote so it’s up to the public to pay attention to the top twenty and vote for their favourites online (you can view all the fine print here).

The live performances (which you can only “win your way in” through The Peak) are also listed online, with the final showcase being tonight at The Cellar. Tonight’s lineup is: Bodhi Jones, Adrian Glynn, The Left, and Bend Sinister.

Thanks to finalists Bend Sinister, I have two tickets for tonight’s exclusive final showcase concert. To win, please leave a comment and I’ll draw a winner by 2:00pm today.

Update: Thanks to everyone for entering this quick contest, I just drew Christine as the winner.

Disney On Ice: Worlds of Fantasy Giveaway

2009-11-17T00:21:20Z

There’s plenty of on-ice entertainment in Vancouver but it usually involves more slashing, hitting, and beer drinking than it does sparkling twirls and sugar-coated wonder. A slightly different “night at the rink” is coming to town at the end of the month in the form of Disney On Ice: Worlds of Fantasy.

Worlds of Fantasy pulls out all the stops and includes a full gamut of kid-favourite characters including: Lightning McQueen, Mater and the crew of CARS, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and Tinker Bell. They’re also tossing in an early bird Princess Showcase an hour before the show officially starts.

As a seasoned auntie, I’ve been to Princesses on Ice before and from the slushy that came in the special Cinderella mug to the bag of popcorn as tall as my niece, it was a lovely night out. That, and I always like having an excuse to visit the Coliseum.

I’ve been given not only two tickets to give away but two family packs of tickets for my readers. Please leave a comment below or re-tweet this link (http://bit.ly/4vNyQe) to enter and I’ll draw two winners (of 4 tickets each) on Monday November 16th, 2009.

Entries from Twitter

The Disney on Ice show runs November 25th until the 29th at the Pacific Coliseum.

Update November 16th: I am currently drawing the winners at random from the comment and Twitter entries. The first to win 4 tickets is Ana – congratulations! Emails will be sent out shortly with further details regarding ticket pick up.

Update November 16th: My second winner (from Twitter) is @scatteredmom – congratulations & thanks to everyone for entering!

ABSOLUT Vodka Vancouver Bottle

2009-11-12T19:34:54Z

This afternoon I was at the official announcement that Vancouver has the first-ever Canadian City-inspired bottle of ABSOLUT vodka.

The Vancouver bottle was designed by BC artist Douglas Fraser who currently resides in Victoria. His bottle art features a float plane soaring over the city and ocean as the mountains cast a blue backdrop — all natural design choices for our fair City. “I also wanted to push it and see if I could create something reflective of something else,” Fraser noted as he said he also wanted to capture the whole work/play atmosphere of Vancouver. He also mentioned that the “V” design reminds him of the original Vancouver Millionaires hockey sweater.

120,000 of these limited edition bottles (expected to sell out) are currently in stores and will be on shelves until at least December. Further to the specialized local bottle, $1 from the sale of each will go to a new Vancouver public art project. Over the last few months ABSOLUT took submissions for the projects and the finalists are now featured on their website. The top 5 proposals are listed for public online vote and once the campaign has ended, $120,000 will be put towards that art project.

Finalists are:

Braden Hammond

Graeme Burglund

Daniel Code

David John Suggitt

Shrapnel Design, Considered and Scott Roberts

Kelly Kretz, Senior Brand Manager for ABSOLUT vodka added that they can’t wait to “bring BC’s favourite submissions to life” through this initiative. “In addition to being globally recognized as an exciting, cosmopolitan and naturally stunning Canadian city, Vancouver is a hotbed of cultural and creative talent, which ABSOLUT is very proud to support.”

You can also try out the ABSOLUT Vancouver Maple Whitecap Martini designed by the bartender at Coast. The Whitecap consists of: ABSOLUT Vodka, Maple Syrup (roasted with vanilla, cinnamon and cloves), egg white, lime juice, and is topped with some nutmeg powder.

You have until March 2010 to get your votes in on the art projects and the winner will be announced shortly after.

Beyond Pink 2009 – Young Women in Business

2009-11-16T16:22:44Z

Update November 13 & 14 2009: I will be updating this post throughout the day featuring info and photos from Beyond Pink

The Young Women in Business are presenting their 2nd Beyond Pink conference this coming weekend.

Beyond Pink is a 2-day conference with speakers, panels, a tradeshow on Friday night and a gala party on Saturday night. As a media sponsor I will be blogging from the event on Friday and a bit on Saturday as well, sharing all of the insights, discussions, and innovations that I can rustle up from this promising crowd.

Some of the speakers so far include: Penny Ballem (City Manager, City of Vancouver), Fiona Walsh (Founder, FM Walsh and Associates), Patricia Graham (Editor-In-Chief, Vancouver Sun), Linda Morris (CEO, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, BC/Yukon Region), Cybele Negris (CEO, Webnames.ca), along with celebrity addresses from Allison Mack (Actor/Director), and Kristin Kreuk (of Smallville).

Friday’s schedule is workshop-driven, starting with a 9:00am keynote and ending the day with the tradeshow at 4:00pm then a dinner event at Canvas around 8:00pm. Saturday includes breakfast, more workshops, a few panels, followed by a martini reception at 6:00pm then the closing gala at 7:00pm. Today is the last day to get tickets.

You can follow along online here on Friday and Saturday mornings, on their Flickr group (where my images will be shared) and you can also find more information on Twitter @msBeyondPink.

Live Twitter updates November 13, 2009

Update November 13th, 2009: Arriving at Beyond Pink this morning I checked out the CRAVE talk that featured company founder, Melody Biringer along with the head of CRAVE Vancouver, Arpen Thandi. Melody gave a history of her various ventures in business which were entertaining and realistic. CRAVE (now in 10 cities and recently launched in Amsterdam) has taken 7 years to build but once she knew what it was exactly that she wanted to build and promote, things started coming together.

Many in the crowd asked if they should go out and try everything to see what sticks and Melody said it’s moreso living your life and following your passion. For example, even if your passion is to own a design firm, the first place you can start today is by working with a design firm. That way you’re still involved in the industry you love but you still have a lot of room to learn, grow, and get your business goals in order.

I found that this rang true for me personally as I have been involved in the online media realm for the last 9 years and it was only last year that I started my own company.

Melody also credited social networking with helping her build CRAVE – even the brand new CRAVE Amsterdam which came together initially over chatter on Twitter. She said the ladies in the room were very lucky to have these tools immediately available to them, “get your domain, get your Twitter.” Amen.

As the sessions end, the women in the room file out and head to the next workshop as the speakers stay put to welcome the next wave of delegates. Beyond Pink so far is very positive, the wifi is fast & free, there’s a coat check, and no shortage of inquisitive minds meeting with masters.

Update: If you were unable to attend some of the workshops and sessions today at the Hyatt, you should still try to make it out for the tradeshow this evening. Some favourites will be showcasing their wares such as: Spa Boutique, Webnames.ca, Domo Tea, and The Suburbia Clothing (just to name a few).

Update November 14th, 2009: Arriving at Beyond Pink’s second day of Workshops I had some time to walk around the conference level here at the Hyatt. There’s a “I need help with / I can help with” wall, a big banner on which to write your business dreams, and inspirational quotes peppered throughout. I’ll be heading into Patricia Graham’s talk at around 11:35am and then I’ll be covering the “all male panel” at 12:30pm. More updates will come from those sessions as I continue my Beyond Pink Day Blog coverage.

Update: I’m in Patricia Graham’s talk: “Embracing Leadership”. As the Editor-in-Chief of the Vancouver Sun (and seeing how they have evolved so much in the new media realm this past year, I’m looking forward to hearing her insights.

Update: Patricia introduces us to the image of a young debutant, Katharine Graham (1917-2001) – a talented young woman who helped and grew her family’s newspaper business. She eventually became publisher of the Washington Post through Watergate and other important events but not without facing uphill battles.

The next slide shows a figure skater on the ice to drive home a point, “it’s okay to fall down,” which is followed by “take risks.” The imagery on Patricia’s slides is simple yet powerful, all highlighting women who became leaders through perseverance. “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing – Helen Keller.”

Patricia says that it comes with the territory but you have to constantly remind yourself that you can conquer loneliness and self-doubt. “It happens to every successful person,” says Patricia but we also have to learn to conquer gratuitous criticism. For me personally, having a business in the online realm has made me wide open to all of these and it is truly a daily struggle to rise about it.

Patricia’s next tip is to be independent-minded and carve your own path. “Leadership is much more an art, a belief, a condition of the heart, than a set of things to do. The visible signs of artful leadership are expressed, ultimately, in its practice – Max DePree.”

She adds that leaders speak up – you have to be able to express your opinion, be honest, present an intelligent case, and be heard. “The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers. – Ralph Nader.”

Now this next tip from Patricia also hits close to home for me: take good care of yourself. It’s tough sometimes to consider plenty of rest, a good diet, and time for yourself as a difficult task to accomplish but it truly can be. I was talking to my friend Raul who said he was so excited to go get his hair cut. Being self-employed like I am I was totally on board with his excitement — I wish I could go get my hair done but there’s just no time (I tell myself). Taking time out to do even the basics for the sake of your own health (and sanity) will only help you be that much more productive and clear-headed in the long run.

Women start 70% of new business start ups in Canada — we are already driven. Now, it’s just time to properly manage all we want to accomplish and not get discouraged by road blocks along the way.

“If at first you don’t succeed… … find out what the loser gets.”

Update: Gearing up for the All Male Panel throughout lunch we (being @IshraSharif @SoloLisa @amyfabulous @CRAVEVancouver @Partly_Sunny and myself) had the chance to meetup with the speakers ahead of time to ask a few questions. Members on this panel include:

Philippe Desrochers – Career Manager, Hari B. Varshney Career Centre

Mike Desjardins – Driver, ViRTUS

Bob Elton – CEO, BC Hydro

Cameron Herold – Founder, BackPocket COO

Jason Pires – Weekend Sportscaster, CTV News

Matt Corker – Alumni Relations Manager, Faculty of Science, UBC

Chris Flett – Founder, Ghost CEO

Each has different experiences, schools of thought, and insights to share with the group for example, Cameron Herold said, “women are already equal so let’s move on and have fun,” speaking to building on where women in the workplace are today. On the other hand, Bob Elton noted that there are still issues to work on. Chris Flett says, “it’s about those of us who get it and those who don’t,” and not feminism versus chauvinism. Mike Desjardins said that he’s all about everyone finding their own values and building a career from them, while Jason Pires speaks to minorities (not just women) in the media realm.

In the pre-panel talk there was a question about traditional companies with outdated ideals, schedules, and practices. Mike said that for every two people that retire there is a young, driven person that will step up. With today’s technology it’s even more cost effective for those old “traditional” companies to embrace things like the mobile workplace.

They all agree that jobs should be given, and sought after based on the best person for the job — not their gender. In the same vein, women need to see themselves with their skill set as valuable assets and not just the best person for the job because they are female.

The panel was asked how they show their “feminine side” in the business world and Chris replied that he’s all about getting the sale, making the money, and the nurturing side (with client relations etc.) comes into play later. However, this isn’t simply a male versus female mindset. He said that women are “the boss” at home and the final word when it comes to family matters however they just need to transfer that to the workplace. Many times these strong, powerful, independent, “tell it like it is” women leave all of that behind when they get into the office. It then becomes about community, listening, and sometimes they just need to keep kicking ass in that realm too.

With regards to that strong female role, some women are scared to become that “dragon lady” or “the bitch” at the office. Chris says that only the weak and insecure will call a strong-willed business woman a “bitch”. Those who see intelligence, ideas, drive, and innovation will get you and see you as a leader.

Mike says that it’s about stepping up and asking yourself, “am I going to be a part of the audience or the one everyone comes to watch?”

Cameron speaks to the reason why the “All Male Panel” is here, he said “we couldn’t have a guys conference and not invite women,” he says women need to “let men in” on their discussions in order to promote communication and understanding. Mike says he looks forward to feminism being simply a wikipedia entry and not something we have to promote in the future — meaning the equality will just be there. “I believe in equality, I ask for equality, but it just doesn’t come up in my world. I open the paper and there it is.” I’m thinking he means that until it’s a non-issue, it’s an issue.

Chris, “let me bring some bluntness to the panel, can you have life and career? Yes.” The panel has moved on to talking about women with families or those who want to start a family and go on maternity leave. “As long as you can make sure having a family does not impact your boss, it will have a minimal impact on your career.” He says just be up front about time off, about family plans, and about returning to your workplace. “Plan your career and business as carefully as you plan your pregnancy.” He says that women spend 8 hours online finding the perfect stroller but they also have to spend enough time plotting and preparing for their career path. “I want you to have a dozen kids as long as it’s not my issue,” said Chris. “When you’re not busy being Timmy’s mom, what do you do?”

He says you can still network and grow your career while balancing that family life if that is the path you choose.

Bob says bottom line, they want people who can function — including men who are having a mid-life crisis — they just need people to show up for their careers. “Let’s have a mature conversation about both men and women.”

Chris’ three definitions if you are…

Passive: You’re going to be someone’s bitch
Aggressive: You’re scared of being someone’s bitch so you overplay it

Assertive: You want to be assertive. If you’re assertive and someone thinks you’re a bitch then that’s because they’re weaker than you. Don’t play into it or you’ll fall into being Passive or Aggressive. You must go after what you want.

Cameron says you also need to connect with others in the company. He said that men will grab someone to go for a coffee where they can get out of the office and talk about business or their work. Women will look for a female or just go by themselves, “you won’t see a man going for coffee alone.” He sees these small workplace moments as being opportunities that women need to seize to connect.

The panel is now asked about money, why is it that for equal jobs, women are on average paid 15% less. “I think it’s systemic discrimination to be honest,” says Bob. “There’s no good reason for it however typically men ask for it more – they just asked to be paid more.”

“The reason why women make less is because they work for less,” says Chris. He says women take credit for a lot less than what they have done or accomplished. “When you stop accepting less, that’s when you’ll get more.”

So when it comes to breaking into “the old boys club” Matt Corker says that it’s about doing more than having an education – you need to break into the industry and get that real-world experience. “If you want to break into the boys club, let it go cause it will actually hurt you,” says Cameron. “You have to be the person who knows the most – be prepared, have the knowledge, and not just the looks,” says Jason with regards to TV media.

“When women can get past the scarcity side where they fight with each other to get into the boys club, that’s where you find your power,” says Chris. The women are not beat by the men, they’re beat by the themselves.

You can’t change what happens but you can change the way you react to it, added Chris. Matt says that the only difference (statistically) between “lucky” and “unlucky” people it how they reacted to the good, the bad, and the ugly situations of life.

From the Miss604 Flickr Pool

2009-11-10T01:31:31Z

I started the Miss604 group pool on Flickr a few years ago because I wanted a place for people to share their images of Vancouver, while also allowing them to be posted on Miss604.com. Since that time, many people have contributed photos ranging from nature scenes to shopping experiences. Yesterday John was browsing through the group and he remarked that the caliber of the photos being added were absolutely top notch. I agreed, so I thought I would start making a weekly photo post either featuring “my week in photos” or the week in photos as contributed to the Flickr pool.

Photo credit: kougar, on Flickr

Photo credit: zoomzoomMCMLXXIV, on Flickr

Photo credit: to be, inspired, on Flickr

Photo credit: The Blackbird, on Flickr

Photo credit: John Biehler, on Flickr

Photo credit: TylerIngram, on Flickr

Photo credit: Matzuda, on Flickr

Please click on the photos to explore the original as posted by the photographer and to check out their other works.

To join the Miss604 Flickr group you will need a Flickr account (free or Pro) and then you’ll just need to go to this link and click on “Join This Group”. Once you have done that you will be able to share any of your own images that are on Flickr, with the Miss604 group by clicking on the “Send to Group” button above the photo.

Vancouver History Tidbits

2009-11-09T17:47:58Z

Drenched to its core on a bleak and dreary Monday morning, the city has come alive for another workday. Even though I do not have a commute, I can still feel the cold damp chill of downtown’s enveloping concrete soak through my skin, as though I were standing on a corner mid down-pour. It’s just one of those mornings.

For this reason, I’ll start off my own blogging work week with some local history notes and even some lighter tidbits to help part those Monday morning clouds just a bit.

The forward pass, the blue line, and the playoff system are all some of the rules of hockey as we know it today that were invented here in Vancouver at the turn of the last century. [source]

In 1939 Vancouver’s first public aquarium was opened and managed by an America, Ivar Haglund. He later moved to Seattle and opened the restaurant (and now food court chain), Ivar’s Acres of Clams. [source]

The statue of Lord Stanley at the entrance to Stanley Park was almost a statue of Lord Strathcona (who would have had the park named after him as well). Strathcona was City Council’s first choice however he urged that Stanley was more appropriate.

Mark Twain was a guest lecturer at the Vancouver Opera House in the summer of 1895. [source]

In 1920, five-pin bowling (which was invented in Toronto) came to the Lower Mainland and overtook ten-pin in popularity by 1945. [source]

What we know as “Gastown” was incorporated as the Town of Granville in 1870. [source]

CBUT, Vancouver’s first TV station, went on the air in 1953. It is currently our CBC, channel 3. [source]

On Remembrance Day in 1935, the cornerstone for St. James Anglican Church at Gore and Cordova streets was laid. [source]

April 1924, the Cenotaph at Vancouver’s Victory Square was unveiled in a ceremony presided over by Mayor William Reid Owen. [source]

If readers have any suggestions or requests for a history follow-up post this week, with Remembrance Day in mind, please feel free to leave a comment or contact me.

Circle Craft Christmas Market 2009

2009-11-10T22:20:37Z

Photo: tom_lin on Flickr

Each year dozens of artisans, crafters, and exhibitors showcase their wares and talents in a warm and cozy holiday atmosphere at the Circle Craft Christmas Market.

The 36th annual market will take place next week, from November 11th until the 15th at the Vancouver Convention Centre and the market will once again be offering up some nifty crafting treats. Exhibits include a Student Art Exhibition, an Entertainment Stage, Ballz of Fire glass-blowing workshops, Wood Turning Demonstrations, and more.

As my good friend Keira told me when I asked her about Circle Craft she said, “I Love it! I always go!” Luckily the folks in charge of the event have given me two tickets to give away to a reader and a guest so they can experience the market themselves.

To enter to win the passes, just leave a comment on this blog post or re-tweet including this link (http://bit.ly/1VWOdg) as well as @Miss604 and @CircleCraft.

Find out more about the Circle Craft Christmas Market on their website or blog. I’ll draw the contest winner on November the 10th and they’ll have tickets waiting for them at the Will Call table.

Update: I have drawn Dagmar as the winner of the tickets, congratulations! Thanks to everyone for entering and I hope you’ll check out the market regardless.