Last Thursday evening, the GHG met for its November meeting. It was another conversation full of interest, with a good turn our and new people attending. In brief, we discussed:
- 1872 Parker Street. Craig Ollenberger gave a history of the last few years of Brookhouse, leading to the current situation where we will almost certainly lose this magnificent Queen Anne building in the next few weeks. The debate widened into HRAs and other mechanisms that might save such houses. It was agreed that we need to research the additional value of heritage houses for buyers. It was also agreed that we should invite Heather Deal to a GHG meeting to discuss an updated Heritage Register.
- Penny got us up-to-date on her discussions with UBC Professors about using students to assist us with our projects this winter/spring. It seems that basic research on our Centenary Celebration houses might be the best bet. It was noted the students will need hand-holding. It was agreed will determine our needs in December for a January start.
- Britannia is currently managing the Astorinio’s space at Commercial & Venables. It is part of the proposed Boffo properties development. It was noted that the EWaldorf and the Hollywood received demolition delays, and we agree that Astorino’s shoild get at least that. We will be pushing for a Statement of Significance to be completed. Penny will see if we can get a tour of the property.
- Eric Phillips gave a presentation that was an update to several of his wonderful Mechanicals & Materials series. He covered new forms of roofing materials, dealing with tin roofs, textured concrete blocks, and drywall mud.
- Penny and Maria and others have begun the process of walking the neighbourhood looking for candidates for our 2014 Centenary Signs project. They have already covered two of ten areas, and other walking tours start each Wednesday at 1pm from the 1700 block Napier. It was noted that some of the 2013 signs may be missing and may need to be replaced.
- Jak agreed to call Lance about the Permanent Signs project.
- Britannia is having an Open House on Thursday 28th November in the greenway. GHG is sharing a table with GWAC. Volunteers are needed.
- Bruce Macdonald reported on the first formal meeting of the Mount Pleasant Heritage Group — the first in what we hope will eventually be a city-wide collections of groups. A local brewery has agreed to sponsor space for their meetings.
- Penny reported on our finances, which are in good shape.
- It was noted that Jak King and Bruce will be making a history/heritage presentation at the COPE meeting on Sunday 24th November.
- Michael Kluckner is curating a series of historic Vancouver films at the Van City Cinema on Sunday 24th.
- Michael is also curating a series of Vancouver panorama photographs at the Space Centre on December 4th at 7pm.
- Finally, Carolyn Lair introduced us to the ASPECT program that mentors organizations on fundraising, and organizational strengths.
Another very full and worthwhile evening.
grandviewheritagegroup.ca 