Downtown
With the New Year comes new opportunities, such as a workshop dubbed Getting to Know Facebook for Seniors, with sessions scheduled for Jan. 7, 20 and 26 at the Vancouver Public Library, 350 West Georgia St. Learn the basics of Facebook and stay connected with friends and family.
Also on offer at the Central Library downtown are free classes designed to teach seniors computer basics. Learn to use the mouse and computer keyboard — and get an overview of basic computer functions, Jan. 5 or 22, 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Part two is for learners who have some experience using a computer keyboard and computer mouse. Learn about computer files and how to move them from the computer to a portable storage device, Jan. 12 or 29, 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
Finally, learn how to use that new ebook in sessions created to show users how to find, check out and download the electronic readers from the VPL’s To Go collection. As well, in Ebook Basics, participants will learn how to use a computer to transfer titles and download directly to an ebook or mobile device. The workshops take place Jan. 6, 17 and 18 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. and Jan. 21 and 31 from 10:15 to 11:45 a.m. All of the above workshops are free, but registration is required by calling 604-331-3603.
Mount Pleasant
The annual tree chipping event in benefit of kids takes place at Kingsgate Mall, 370 East Broadway, Jan. 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the lower eastside parking lot
Tree Chipping for Kids at Kingsgate Mall is an annual fundraising effort in support of the Mount Pleasant Elementary School Community Playground. The event is organized by the Mount Pleasant Business Improvement Association with assistance from Arbutus Tree Service.
All trees are chipped and recycled by donation with 100 per cent of proceeds dedicated to the construction of a community playground. Even better, free cookies and hot chocolate will be served during the event to all who donate. Last year’s event recycled 357 trees and raised $3,067 for the project.
Fairview
A New Year’s Eve party at the Ukrainian Hall has a Back to the Future theme, so get out the poodle skirts, cowboy hats, space gear or ’80s best for a night of music, dancing and photos in front of a Clock Tower replica.
Enjoy three live bands, an eighties-inspired DJ, photo booth and photographers. As well, each ticket holder will receive a bag filled with Back to the Future souvenirs. A donation of $2 from each ticket goes to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s research. Sponsored by craft brewery Parallel 49 Brewing Co., this party takes off on the city’s largest dance floor.
The hall, located at 3150 Ash St., is easily accessible by transit or offers free parking. Note: the party includes a cash bar and there is no ATM on the property. For more information, visit savetheclocktower.info.
Richmond
Vancouver’s King of Swing, Dal Richards, will once again be leading his orchestra during the annual New Year’s Eve bash at River Rock Casino Resort.
The party includes a premium buffet, dance floor, party favours and champagne toast. Visit ticketmaster.ca or riverrock.com for tickets.
Renfrew/Collingwood
The Italian Cultural Centre is hosting a New Year’s Eve Gala in the Grand Ballroom during a party featuring hors d’oeuvres, dinner (including wine and soft drinks), live music, party favours and a champagne toast at midnight. The centre is located at 3075 Slocan St. Doors open at 6 p.m. Call 604-430-3337 or visit italianculturalcentre.ca for more information.
