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Burnaby Has Collected Another Title: Top 2025 Collector Award Winner for Public Recycling

Francesca Bonifacio — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 15:28:22 GMT

Burnaby residents are proud of many things; our dedication to green open spaces, our diversity and being the hometown of Michael Bublé, Michael J. Fox and Christine Sinclair. Another title we can add is being crowned second in the 2025 Top Collector Award Winners for public recycling and first for 2025 Top Local Government Facility. We interviewed Jenn Robson, the director of operations at Interchange Recycling. Interchange Recycling is a non-profit organization that collects and recycles products. They recycle more than 50 million litres of used oil in the province each year, about 6 million units of oil filters, 3 million litres of antifreeze, and about 1.7 million kilograms of empty automotive containers are recycled each year in the province. They are also the ones responsible for naming the top 30 public recycling centres each year.

Burnaby has been placed at the top of the list for many years. We asked Jenn, why Burnaby? She described Burnaby as being an engaged community who has a strong dedication to keep hazardous products out of the local ecosystem. In addition, the Burnaby Eco-System accepts a variety of recyclable items which make it easy for anyone to drop off their used materials. Jenn also expressed her appreciation to the Burnaby Eco-Center and their staff, stating: “Their dedication is not just to our program, but all of the recycling programs that they participate with. Their dedicated staff and the education that we're able to get across to residents, we're seeing the results in the volume that we're picking up and we're recycling.”

For many of us, we simply drop off the materials at the depot and go on about our day. However, the process of recycling is actually quite fascinating. Jenn walked us through the process and importance of where these materials go. She described it as having a circular life. The recycled oil and antifreeze are sent to a local refinery, recycled into automotive oil and antifreeze, then lives another life to be sold again. Similar processes happen to metal pieces and plastics where they are pelletized and created into new material. She also spoke about the impacts on a daily basis, for example, if you are getting your oil changed at an automotive repair shop, their stores are involved in the program and use recycled oil as well. As Jenn stated: “we’re keeping it out of landfill, we're keeping it out of the waterways, and we're putting it back”.

On April 23, 2026, Interchange Recycling announced that they are accepting 11 additional automotive container categories across British Columbia. The expanded list now includes Automotive Adhesives, Automotive Aerosols, Brake Fluid, Conditioners, Degreasers, Fuel System Cleaners, Lubricants, Automotive Sealers, Solvents, and Stabilizer containers. They advise that if you are returning these containers, to use them as much as you can as they can only accept empty automotive containers, as well as putting the lid back on to reduce leaks. The protocol for returning these items is to look for a depot attendant and place the container in the correct location to reduce potential harm to the eco-system. The acceptance of these new materials mean a greater need for more space to collect. The collection facilities have received an infrastructure grant that can be used to cover an infrastructure of their choosing up to $8000. The other option is Interchange will provide the center with a sea container that can be modified for either ventilation, spill containment, flooring, etc. to the depot’s needs.

It is quite beautiful that Burnaby has won this title. It shows how our community truly cares about the environment and where we live. There is a large amount of concerning issues to our eco-system and it is vital that we continue doing our part. If you want to learn more, you can visit their website: interchangerecycling.com. All of the information is available, including a collection site finder where you can put in your postal code and find your nearest location!

Burnaby Mountain Secondary School Student Awarded Prestigious Scholarship

Cmolik Foundation — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 22:39:21 GMT

Yena Kim, a graduate of Burnaby Mountain Secondary School, has been awarded a prestigious $60,000 post-secondary scholarship with The Cmolik Foundation in recognition of her achievements in overcoming adversity and excelling in her studies. The Selection Committee was impressed with Kim’s application, her academic goals and her future career aspirations. The award recognizes and honours Kim’s hard work and commitment with her financial award and is keen to support Kim pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Political Science.

“Academically, Yena is truly outstanding. She consistently earned 99–100% in senior-level Social Studies and Law courses, reflecting not only exceptional intellect but also genuine curiosity, advanced critical thinking, and deep analytical ability. She approaches complex social, legal, and ethical issues with maturity and insight, often elevating classroom discussions through thoughtful questions and respectful challenges to ideas,” says Colin Vandevyvere, law studies teacher of Burnaby Mountain Secondary.

Yena is clear about her future plans, “My academic goal is to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at UBC, with a focus on governance, public policy, and Canadian politics. I seek to better understand political institutions and engage in public initiative. I envision working in government public policy, helping design equitable, evidence-based policies that meaningfully support and strengthen society.”

The Cmolik Foundation believes in the power of education to transform a student’s life journey. In addition to providing students with the funding to realize their dreams, the Foundation provides students with a mentor, a supportive community of scholarship peers and alumni, as well as access to ongoing special events and professional opportunities. Students become part of a larger community dedicated to their post-secondary success.

About The Cmolik Foundation

The Cmolik Foundation was founded in 2008 to provide opportunities for youth who have experienced adversity in their lives. Rooted in a profound belief in the power of education to transform and empower, we support undergraduate and post-secondary education, mentorship, field trips and summer camps to support the healthy development of our youth. The Cmolik Foundation provides $60,000 scholarships to deserving students from across British Columbia. Currently, we have over 100 students enrolled in our Scholarship Program. As well, the Foundation offers several $35,000 scholarships to deserving alumni to pursue graduate studies.

Read more: https://thecmolikfoundation.com/

The City of Burnaby Eco-Centre awarded the Top Local Government Facility Award

Interchange Recycling — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 23:19:51 GMT

Interchange Recycling, the not-for-profit organization dedicated to the collection and recycling of used oil, antifreeze, oil filters, and automotive containers in British Columbia, awarded the Top Local Government Facility Award to The City of Burnaby Eco-Centre , for the second year in a row, making it the only facility to make this award twice. It also retained its position as the No. 2 collector in the province. Castle Fuels Inc. in Kamloops was named Most Improved. Interchange Recycling ranks its 30 top sites each year by how much used oil and antifreeze they collect, how long they've been in the program, and how much they support other recycling initiatives. The full list of winners can be found at https://interchangerecycling.com/top-collectors-of-2025/.

"Each collection site across the province plays a vital role in keeping our communities safe by recovering hazardous materials like used motor oil, antifreeze, oil filters, and automotive containers," says Jenn Robson, director of operations at Interchange Recycling. "When residents drop off these materials at our free public recycling centres, they ensure these recyclable resources stay out of local landfills and waterways. These awards recognize the communities leading by example."

This year, Interchange Recycling also announced the expanded its program to include 11 additional automotive container categories across British Columbia. The expanded list now includes automotive adhesives, automotive aerosols, brake fluid, conditioners, degreasers, fuel system cleaners, lubricants, automotive sealers, solvents and stabilizer containers. All containers must be empty and free of any remaining product before being accepted.

The City of Burnaby Eco-Centre, at 4855 Still Creek Drive, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and takes used motor oil, antifreeze, oil filters and their containers, on top of more than 20 other recyclable materials.

About Interchange Recycling
Formed in 2003, Interchange Recycling is a collaborative, not-for-profit group dedicated to the collection and recycling of used lubricating oil, oil filters, oil containers, and used automotive containers in B.C. Each year, approximately 50 million litres of oil and three million litres of antifreeze are collected and responsibly managed through Interchange Recycling’s network of public recycling centres and generators across the province. 99.4% of residents of British Columbia currently have reasonable access to recycling locations. For general information about Interchange Recycling, visit https://interchangerecycling.com/

Edited by Mylo Bonifacio for brevity.

The Summer Nikkei Garden Market

Francesca Bonifacio — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 18:46:38 GMT

The 2026 Nikkei Garden Market fell on a beautiful sunny Saturday afternoon, welcoming a summer start. It was nice to see many people dressed in Yukatas and summer kimonos, embracing Japanese culture. There were 94 vendors, with a mix of delicious food, jewellery and crafts.

They were also celebrating the Tanabata festival, also known as the Star Festival. This celebrates the legend of the deities Orihime and Hikoboshi who are tragic lovers who can only meet on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunisolar calendar. This typically falls in July or August. People can write their deepest wishes on colourful paper. These colourful wishes were strung along the walls of Nikkei; praying for passing exams, pursuing dreams, and long lasting friendships.

As our family was leaving the indoor market, we got to see Bon Odori. This lively dance is a spiritual dance that welcomes ancestral spirits that are visiting. It is typically danced during July 15 and August 15 in Obon festivals in Japan. Bon Odori is beginner friendly and easy to follow, it was lovely to see many people in the community take part in this festival. This was the perfect event for families and those eager to experience Japanese culture.

Keep an eye open for the Nikkei Cultural Centre and their events!

Magical Idol Cafe

MagiaNote — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 23:34:20 GMT

Introducing Magical Idol Cafe, MagiaNote's original concept cafe event! With limited member-themed menu items, interactive games, and a live J-pop idol performance, we're bringing a one-of-a-kind experience to Metro Vancouver!

Available in 2 sessions (12:00-1:30 and 3:00-4:30), this event features an exclusive menu with food and drink (not included with admission). Our song menu includes TV size (shortened) solo, full length solos, duets, or full-group song and dance covers from J-pop idol groups performed for you personally. Half Note Tier (VIP tier) includes a free polaroid photo with the members and an exclusive sticker set featuring Hazel's illustrations. Whole Note Tier (super VIP) comes with front-row seating and a free song selection.

Date & Time: Jul 12, 2026 12:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Venue Details: Something Sweet Cafe, 6888 Royal Oak Avenue, Burnaby, BC,V5J 4J2

A Japanese Summer Market in Burnaby

Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 18:51:01 GMT

The Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre is thrilled to announce the return of its summer market on Saturday, July 4, 2026. The Nikkei Garden Market (formerly known as the Tanabata Market) will transform the center’s beautiful indoor and outdoor garden spaces into a vibrant Japanese summer market from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Event Highlights Include:

Seasonal Marketplace: A curated selection of local community sellers, featuring handmade artisan crafts, unique gifts, and plants.
Japanese Flavours: A delicious lineup of local food vendors serving up Japanese street food and refreshing summer treats.
Tanabata Traditions: In honour of the traditional Japanese "Star Festival," guests can participate in the beautiful custom of writing personal wishes on colourful strips of paper and tying them to decorations.
Fun for Kids: Interactive seasonal activities to keep young attendees entertained.
Giveaways: Marketgoers will have the exclusive opportunity to enter a draw to win free tickets to the upcoming Nikkei Matsuri, our Japanese summer festival held on the Labour Day weekend.

Attendees are encouraged to dress in Yukata or summer kimono—creating the perfect backdrop for memorable summer photos.

Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026

Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Location: Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre (6688 Southoaks Crescent, Burnaby, BC). Walk of bus from Edmonds Skytrain Station. Free street parking; limited free underground parking.

Admission: FREE

url: https://centre.nikkeiplace.org/events/garden-market-2026/?utm_source=press+release&utm_campaign=ff03801eb7-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-f52af5b6ba-607807742&mc_cid=ff03801eb7&mc_eid=38dd6ea78e

Vancouver Food Runners is looking for volunteers to join our growing network of Food Rescue Heroes.

Vancouver Food Runners — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 23:31:01 GMT

Food rescues are simple and flexible. Using the Vancouver Food Runners app, volunteers can claim a rescue that fits their schedule and transport surplus food from a local business to a nearby nonprofit organization. Most rescues take 30–60 minutes and can be done by car, bike, or on foot depending on the location.

Every rescue helps reduce food waste while supporting organizations that provide meals and food access across Metro Vancouver. With 40+ food rescues happening in Burnaby every week, there are lots of opportunities to get involved!

Volunteering with Vancouver Food Runners is one of the easiest ways to make an immediate difference in your community.

Download the Vancouver Food Runners App to get started today! Or email kelsey@vancouverfoodrunners.com for more information.

Better in Burnaby - Networking Event!

Rotary Club of Burnaby Metrotown — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 19:29:45 GMT

Rotary Club of Burnaby Metrotown, is a vibrant and welcoming group of local business-people and community leaders who meet regularly to create friendships, support meaningful projects, and make a real difference, in Burnaby and around the world.

Come join us!

Wed June 24th (4-6pm) at Time & Place, Hilton Metrotown Burnaby

See you there!

Please RSVP:

📩 lana@deerlakelaw.ca

💬 +1 (604) 773 - 4231

📞 +1 (604) 773 - 4231

Rotary Club of Burnaby Metrotown — Support Local - Connect Local - Grow Local.

Hope and Strength: The 2026 Brain Tumour Walk

Francesca Bonifacio — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 00:01:02 GMT

On May 30th 2026, The Brain Tumour Walk took place at Burnaby’s own Swanguard
Stadium. Many appeared to walk and support their loved ones who survived their battle with brain tumours. The Brain Tumour Walk is held every year by the Brain Tumour Foundation. Every day in Canada, 27 people are diagnosed with a brain tumour. It is important to increase awareness and research about this cause to help treat patients and support them.

The Brain Tumour Foundation is completely donor-funded. We spoke with Myra Ripley,
the Senior Advisor, CEO & Board Relations of the foundation who discussed with us the
importance of being proudly donor-funded. This guarantees the foundation’s autonomy and independence on their advocacy. They wholeheartedly advocate that everyone should have equal access to the same treatment and care for brain tumours, no matter where they live.

At eleven years old, Liam Caballero was crowned the 2026 Vancouver Community
Champion. I got the amazing opportunity to interview Liam. He spoke about his journey with battling his brain tumour. “I was surprised when I was picked at first,” he told me. “But, I’m glad to share my story”. Liam was only four years old when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour. He described how difficult the surgery was but also that having amazing doctors and nurses helped him get through it. I asked Liam what keeps him going when the fight gets challenging. He credits his family, friends, classmates and the potential of his future for reminding him to keep on going. His love of writing drives his dream to become an author. One day, he wants to write a book about his journey of living with a brain tumor. As a fellow superhero lover, I had to ask the 2026 Community Champion if he could choose any power, what it would be. “Teleportation because I
want to travel the world,” he said. “And healing, to make the world a better place.”

Seeing the turnout for the Brain Tumour Walk truly inspired me. It showed how much
people care about their friends and family, spending a beautiful Saturday morning expressing their advocacy for brain tumour survivors and pushing for more research to be done. The bandanas, shaped balloons, and t-shirts with names of people who battled brain tumours were physical manifestations of why support, advocacy and community matters. As faith and trust feel like fading beliefs these days, events like these grow more important. As Liam said in his speech: “Look around, this is hope.”
To learn more about brain tumours, go check out the website for more information:
https://www.braintumour.ca/

Join our Vancouver Brain Tumour Walk!

Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 21:48:48 GMT

The Brain Tumour Walk is Canada’s largest volunteer-led movement supporting people and families affected by a brain tumour. By registering and taking part, you join thousands across the country who walk to honour loved ones, celebrate survivors and fund critical research, support programs and advocacy. Every step you take helps build connection, strengthen our community and bring hope to those who need it most.

Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026

Location: Central Park - Swangard Stadium

Time: 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Read more: https://btfc.akaraisin.com/ui/BTW2026