Simon Fraser University is hosting a fun, family-friendly science event for Halloween.
On Saturday, Oct. 25, from noon to 3:30 p.m., SFU's faculty of science will put on a series of hands-on science activities in the south concourse of the academic quadrangle, outside of the Shrum Science Centre lecture hall B9200.
The event is geared towards kids in kindergarten to Grade 6. There will be phantom physics and cryptic chemistry shows at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. To reserve free seats, email [email protected]. Costumes, of course, are welcome.
Calling astronomers
Interested in checking out the partial solar eclipse next week?
The Vancouver branch of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada is hosting a special event on Thursday, Oct. 23 to do just that. Meet at SFU's Burnaby campus, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., at the Terry Fox statue near the academic quadrangle. The society will have solar telescopes set up for their members and solar viewing glasses the public can use, thanks to Canadian Telescopes, the NOW's next-door neighbour. The event is weather dependent, however. For more information, go to http://tinyurl.com/SFUeclipse.
Spooky stories
The Burnaby Public Library's storytelling series is taking on a Halloween twist this month.
On Sunday, Oct. 26, from 3 to 4:30 p.m., the Bob Prittie Metrotown library branch is putting on A Host of a Ghost for teens and adults. Accomplished storytellers will be sharing spooky stories, and there are five spots for participants to tell their tales and receive feedback. (To participate, prepare a five to seven minute story and register by emailing [email protected].)
Refreshments will be provided, and there's no need for audience members to register. The library is at 6100 Willingdon Ave.
BFL awards
The Burnaby Family Life Institute recently awarded several people for their contributions helping children and families.
Kinesiologist Teresa Tibbutt was awarded for helping raise nearly $70,000 to help vulnerable children. Tony Obuck, from Anton's Pasta Bar, was awarded for hosting the annual Christmas dinner at his restaurant for Burnaby Family Life clients and donating close to $20,000 over the years. The Salvation Army's Molly Chan was awarded for donating Christmas hampers for families. Ashley Silcock, an advocate with the B.C. Coalition of People with Disabilities, was awarded for facilitating information sessions and helping Burnaby Family Life with its clients.
Hal Wall, principal at Morley Elementary, was recognized for providing a welcoming environment for Burnaby Family Life's child-care programs. Lorraine Bascombe, from the B.C. Centre for Ability, was recognized for her contributions as a child-care consultant. John Benedetti, from Pro Organics, was awarded for contributing organic produce for a young parents' program. George Sciberras, from New Westminster's Save-On-Foods, was awarded for donating supplies to moms and babies. Eric Mathias, of Moksha Yoga Burnaby, offered his yoga space for a mindfulness session for Burnaby Family Life clients who have experienced violence.
Susan Montabello, principal at Cariboo Hill Secondary, was awarded for partnering with Burnaby Family Life to offer programs to students.
Andrea James, also from the B.C. Centre for Ability, trained child-minding staff at Burnaby Family Life for free. Mark Batt, from MOSAIC, was awarded for offering space for professional development, meetings and parenting groups. Lisa Ko, a certified infant massage teacher, was awarded for helping with the Baby and Me Second Stage program, sharing her massage and singing skills to help moms calm their babies. Carolyn Levasseur, from the YMCA, was awarded for helping clients find quality child care.
Last but not least, Carol Matusicky and Karen Ewing, both outgoing board members, were recognized for their years of contribution to Burnaby Family Life.
