Author Archives: Hayley Maranda

Modern Speakeasies

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Imagine living in a world where alcohol was illegal. Where you had to drink in secret, underground, only entering with a passcode. It sounds slightly appealing, though, no? The mysterious, edgy ambience of these places excites me.

Speakeasy

They were disguised as other businesses or accessed through concealed entrances like bookshelves, phone booths, or unmarked doors to evade detection. The reason for the name is that consumers were asked to “speakeasy” of these places not avoid drawing attention.

Although actual speakeasies are not around in the Lower Mainland, there are several underground spots, minimally adversities, that create the same secretive vibe

Today, bars are themed like speakeasies, offering unique, immersive experiences. They often embrace a vintage aesthetic with dim lighting, classic cocktails, jazz music, and an air of mystery. 

Here are some of the best speakeasies in the Vancouver area! 

The Stock Room

This bar is classy, cultured and tropical. This bar is located behind the Hundy burger joint on Homer Street. They serve delicious drinks, featuring robust punches, fruit-forward cocktails, natural wines, and local beers. Unfortunately, they don’t serve food, but you are welcome to grab a bite from Hundy’s and return downstairs to play some pool, admire the art-filled walls and take in the secretive ambience of the bar. 

Learn more

The Narrow Group

This speakeasy is found on the main street, inviting patrons in with a subtle red light signalling its entrance giving it that secretive charm. This has been voted the best subculture in Vancouver! The room is candle-lit and very intimate, best for small, chill gatherings. They have snacks and yummy drinks to enjoy while listening to chill music. 

Learn more

Guilt & CO

This secretive bar specializes in local talent. It has a line-up of any genre so it can appeal to any audience who wants this kind of atmosphere. Located in Gastown, this bar is highly recommended by locals. They have good drinks with funny names such as “grounds for divorce”

Learn more

Grab some friends, family or just yourself, and try out one of these joints. Enjoy entertainment, good drinks and the feeling like you’re in a retro movie where consuming alcohol is illegal so you have to do it in secret…you’ll feel so edgy and cool.

Movies and TV Shows Filmed in Vancouver

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Isn’t it fun to watch a movie and recognize the characters placed in your very own town? It’s kind of magical and 4th wall breaking to get lost in cinema land, a different dimension from your own life, only to see the Walmart from down the street on your TV.

Here is a list of some movies and TV shows that were shot right here in Vancouver!

Deadpool

Ad for Deadpool.

 

This may not come as a surprise to you, but if you have not heard, Vancouver was used for the shooting of the hilarious Marvel movie Deadpool. Although while watching the movies, it is not always clear you’re seeing the Nothern BC landscape, here are 8 locations to look out for while watching:

  • The Georgia Street Viaduct
  • Arch Alley
  • Terminal City Iron Works in East Vancouver
  • Cobalt Hotel
  • Chinatown
  • No. 5 Orange
  • Leeside Tunnel Skatepark (PNE Grounds)
  • Under Pattullo Bridge

Avatar: The Last Air Bender

https://twitter.com/AvatarNetflix/status/1765452287013716210

As one of my personal favourites, this live adaptation of the original cartoon Avatar: The Last Air Bender caught me by surprise! The 4 elemental nations, earth, air, fire and water were captured all over the Lower Mainland!

Avatar was shot over four cities:

Burnaby was used for its paths and trails. They shot causal walks and exciting adventures for the show.

Maple Ridge’s WildPlay course was used to film. If you pay attention closely, you can see some of the course in 3 episodes.

“You can see sections of the course in action when Jet brings Katara to his hideout for the first time,” Netflix says.

Langley was used for two of its popular outdoor studios, Jamestown and The Farm on 264th.

“Langley boasts fertile farmlands and charming vineyards, contributing to a thriving local food and wine scene,” wrote Netflix.

Surrey was a location specific for its paintball park, Panther Paintball, and the sprawling 18-acre A Rocha property.

Riverdale

The beloved television series, Riverdale, was shot using the beautiful landscape of BC.

Starting the pilot off at Vancouver’s Alouette Lake as Sweetwater River in the series. The Majority of outdoor scenes were shot in Surreys Bear Creek Park. Other filming locations include Bear Creek Park, Rocko’s Diner, Twilight Drive-In Theatre, and more.

For those of you who grew up in Vancouver, you may see your high school halls being walked by Archie himself. Point Grey Secondary School in Kerrisdale served as a key filming location for several scenes, while Minnekhada Lodge in Coquitlam offered an ideal backdrop for house parties and poolside sequences.

These are only a few of the motion pictures shot in our beautiful nature-filled home. Click here to see which media is filmed in Canadian cities.

Gambling Culture Is Going Too Far

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Gambling culture is starting to get out of hand.

DiscussionImageFinal

Losing money betting on random things has never been so easy and casual; I mean people are betting on anything. I’m not talking about going to the casino or buying lottery tickets. I’m talking about betting on politics, musicals, and who’s going to win in a fight a 58-year-old man or a 27-year-old ex-Team 10 house YouTuber.

I’m going to break down some huge betting events that maybe shouldn’t be bet on.

US Presidential Election

This one is crazy to me. People are putting up millions of dollars on various outcomes of the 2024 US Presidential election. It was recorded that billions of dollars were poured into online betting markets, with most money placed on the outcome of the election, while some were also determined by swing states, electoral college votes, Senate, and House control- the list goes on! Back in 2020, someone was reported to have bet 5 million dollars on Joe Biden; hopefully, they didn’t make that same bet this year.

This gambling raised concerns for many people, one being the moral injustice of betting money on something so serious, turning a decision that can reshape the entire state of a country into an event like a football game. I must admit, I got in on the action too. Don’t come at me; I had to make learning and following politics slightly more enjoyable.

Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul Fight

The Mike Tyson vs . Jake Paul fight was one of the most anticipated events of the year, unfortunately turning out to be a snooze fest. Watchers could not wait to hop online and place their bets on their expected victor. This fight, which was broadcast live on Netflix, became the most bet-on boxing match in history, surpassing previous records set by high-profile fights such as Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk.

The split in bets was nearly even, reflecting the combined hype around Tyson’s legendary status and Paul’s rising boxing credentials. This event also attracted a massive and unique audience, blending boxing fans and celebrity enthusiasts, making it a significant cultural crossover event.

Wicked Betting

Yes, people are even finding ways to bet on movies now. The new screen adaptation of Broadway’s famous production “Wicked” made its way to theatres on November 26th (it’s GREAT, by the way; you should go watch it). Betting specials were created around how the movie would be reviewed! Rotten Tomatoes is described as the

“most trusted measurement of quality for Movies & TV.”

This made it the chosen site for making bets on rating outcomes. The Kalshi app hosted a betting poll, choosing under or over 85%.

Betting culture is truly interesting and hilarious. If you go down this path, please be careful with your money. Small amounts to join in the fun, not your whole house on how well Ariana Grande sang ‘Popular’(seriously, go watch the movie, here’s a taste).

Quinn Hughes Surpasses Alexander Edler

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Intense! This is one way to describe the Canucks game Sunday against the Detroit Red Wings? Milestones were reached left and right.

Jake Debrusk pulled off the second hat trick of his career, scoring the game-winning goal in overtime. In the SAME GAME, the Canucks goalie Kevin Lankinen became the first-ever goalie to get 10-0-0 on the road.

On top of this all, Quinn Hughes made it into the history books! He surpassed Alexander Edler, the previous record holder for assists as a defenceman. Edler had 310 assists for the Canucks in 925 games, and Hughes beat it in less than half the amount of games!

In Sunday’s Game, Quinn Hughes recorded three assists, earning him 313 assists over 388 games!

Jake Debrusk speaks on his feelings towards Hughes

“I’ve never been with a player on the ice where whenever you’re out there, you want to give him the puck because he probably it’s going to come back to you at some point in a better spot. He’s just so skilled out there, and teams plan for him every single night.”

Couch Rick Touchet shared his impression of Hughes, being young and a beyond incredible hockey player

“Well, it’s an amazing feat, and he’s still young, and he’s still got a lot of years left with the Canucks, but, yeah, just an incredible, great milestone. Obviously, if not the best defenseman in the league, he’s, he sure puts up a good argument.”

Through 23 games, Quinn Hughes has tallied five goals and 23 assists, totaling 28 points. This performance is earning him a top rank on the Canucks and second among NHL defensemen, trailing Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche, who has 32 points.

Not only is Hughes fantastic on the ice, he is wonderful off it as well. This player is slow to boast about his impressive performance and instead, redirects attention to his teammates, coaches and meteors for praise.

In Hughes fashion, he thanked his time with Edler who helped show him the way

“I was lucky to have Eddie for two years and he was a great teammate, I’ve been able to play with good players.”

Hughes also said

“As far as the record, I think I’ve just been able to play with some really great players. We saw the three goals Jake had tonight and the play Petey makes off the overtime one, so just really fortunate.”

What a classy man. I’m excited to see how this star continues to progress and impress his fan base.

Christmas On The Peninsula

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This is my favourite time of year, Christmas on the Peninsula has returned to White Rock this past weekend! This event is very close to my heart, being held since 2009, this event brings people through the community together in volunteering and putting on this festival. The White Rock Community Centre has turned into a winter wonderland of events for all ages. 

The Christmas Parade

As one of my personal favourite things about this festival is the Christmas parade! This is arguably the highlight of this entire event. Local businesses, schools and community groups get to build and display their own floats, adding dazzling decor with a holiday theme. These groups consist of local cultural and heritage organizations that showcase their unique traditions as well as Scouts, dance troupes, and sports teams to celebrate the White Rocks community spirit! Marching bands will parade the streets along with these groups, singing festive songs and getting people in the holiday spirit. If this wasn’t enough, Santa and his elves also make an appearance at the parade, tying everything together. 

Live Entertainment

If the parade wasn’t enough joy, there are also carolers, choirs and dancers who perform, as people walk through the venue. These people are made up of local artists, giving them a place to be seen and appreciated.

Family Activities

What makes this event so sweet and attractive is the activities they offer to children. I can still remember the impact these events had on me, and to see them continue into the next generation brings me joy.  

  • Face painting is a classic, that is always offered, through local high school volunteers that love art and hanging out with kids. 
  • Storytelling is a huge attraction as well that engages kids and fosters happy memories. These sessions are typically held in cozy, festive spaces, such as community halls, libraries, or special storytelling corners set up in the marketplace. These stories include the classics like ‘The Night Before Christmas’ and ‘The Polar Express’. During this time, kids are encouraged to ask questions and interact, acting and making noises along with the story.
  • Crafts and cookie decorating are a hit! Kids and their families join at the table with fun Christmas crafts, changing each year on one end. Christmas cookies, with decorating supplies ready on the other end. 

Booths

As you travel the halls, you’ll be drawn to an array of tables and booths set up. Here, you’ll find delicious holiday treats. Taste roasted chestnuts, cookies, fudge, and candy cane washed down with steamy hot apple cider, cocoa and coffee to help keep visitors warm.

Looking into items less edible, booths will also be selling handmade items, such as ornaments, jewelry, candles, knitwear, and other unique holiday gifts. Local non-profits also set up tables, selling items with proceeds going to various charities (Peace Arch Hospice Society, Semiahmoo Animal League Inc., Salvation Army, etc.) 

Although this magical, community-filled event is over, there is always next year! This event is prepped all year and takes a big team of volunteers and donors to make it happen. If you’re interested in taking part in the event next year, learn more here!

Debrusk’s Second Hat Trick

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Last night, in a battle against the Detroit Red Wings, a milestone was hit by the Cancuk #74, Jake DeBrusk. They fought hard, going into overtime 4-4, Jake scoring the winning goal in overtime, his third of the game, earning him the second hat trick of his career. 

“I liked the fight, scoring there with three minutes left – Bränns, nice shot. Then obviously overtime, hanging in there. Jake – what a night, three goals, I mean that was a hell of a goal there. That’s why we signed him up, for those types of moments and he came through for us,” Tocchet said.

Jake scored two powerplay goals within 43 seconds of each other! It was an incredible game for him, especially after not feeling particularly different going into this game. He explains

“It wasn’t our prettiest game, Detroit I thought played pretty decent. We had good spurts, where we were moving the puck around as a unit of five and to be able to tie it late obviously just shows what this team is becoming about. You never want to go down after having a lead going into the third period”

The canucks were having trouble finding their groove on powerplays, but this year they have been dominating now becoming a top-10 team by penalty-kill percentage over the past few weeks. 

Although they have been finding their way, the Red Wings were a massive challenge on Wednesday as they applied dynamic pressure every time they gained a one-man advantage. It took special plays from Pettersson, Brännström and DeBrusk to dig the Canucks out of the hole the Red Wings power play ultimately put them in.

I’m sure many can agree the Canucks know how to deal with high-stress situations and come out on top.

Art Exhibits

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As we head closer to the coldest and darkest time of the year, the desire to go out and enjoy the city depletes. I have a lovely option for you to add a little light into this darker season: Art Exhibits! The relaxation from taking a stroll through creativity and stories is therapeutic and helps you take yourself out of the everyday. Here are 3 different exhibits to choose from, located right here in the Lower Mainland.

The Richmond Art Exhibit

Blueberries and cream

Currently, this venue is presenting what is the most interesting topic known to man. Food! ‘FOODWAYS’ displays 11 different artists, exploring how food influences relationships and cultural identities. You’ll get to walk through multi-media works, including photography, video, printmaking, ceramics, and installations. Cooking and food are a large segment of what brings people together, connecting and finding common ground. These artists encompass this fact through their stories. If you’d like to explore upcoming events surrounding FOODWAYS, visit the WAG website. They are offering special activities the public gets to do with artists involved in the exhibit, including a tea service, printmaking and a collage workshop! You can enjoy all FOODWAYS has to offer Monday-Fridays from 10 am – 6 pm and the weekend from 12 pm – 5 pm until December 31st.

Chinese Canadian Museum

Six artists at the Chinese Canadian Museum, located at the Wing Snag building, are a part of launching a new exhibit titled “Reshaping Collections”. They will use the Chung Collection as inspiration, employing 3D scanning technology to reinterpret historical objects. Their new works, spanning photography, sculpture, animation, and more, explore Canadian identity by blending history, art, and culture. The exhibit is interactive and family-friendly, the perfect place to spend your day between Wednesdays and Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm.

Contemporary Art Gallery
What better way to cheer up the gloomy season than with an exhibit center titled “Live Laugh Love”? This art gallery in Vancouver is newly introducing the Equal Opportunity Statement. This is an exceptionally unique piece as it appears to be nothing to the naked eye. From a distance, all you see is a blank room. Look closer, and you’ll see white text in satin paint, covering the walls. This references a racist advertisement circulated in a Vancouver suburb last year.

These are only a few of many significant, educating and creative art exhibits to explore this upcoming season. Give yourself a break, take your whole family and indulge yourself in stories portrayed with colour and creativity.

 

The Swiftie Culture

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If you are a Swiftie, you’re most likely aware of how Taylors’ music has become more than just some songs, it’s become a culture, a lifestyle, some would say. I’m personally not a fan. Is it because I truly just don’t want to associate myself with this branding? Yes, yes it is. Although I don’t listen to Taylor Swift, I am captivated by her fan base, especially by what they are doing to the city of Vancouver relating to her Eras tour.

Dazzler shot(Speed of light clip)

I have here a list of Swifite-themed events for all you fans to enjoy!

The Flamingo Room: This venue on Commercial Drive is a Miami-themed bar that invites customers to enjoy live entertainment and comedy over some delicious cocktails and snacks. On December 5th, this colourful spot is inviting Taylor enthusiasts to pregame their upcoming concert with fellow fans. The team will be serving up Taylor-inspired cocktails and paying homage to the different eras.

Vancouver Christmas Market: Held at Jack Poole Plaza, this is a fun, festive annual event! Lights and decor fill the plaza, with booths of goodies and gifts surrounding an ice rink and a tall Christmas tree in the very center. Looks like Taylor is taking over Christmas, too. Also on December 5, this market will hold Eras-themed trivia and karaoke for fans who can’t even enjoy the merry season without a little shake-it-off.

Science World: That’s right, the swifties are even taking over Science World. On the 4th of December, fans 19 and older are entering the dorm to enjoy trivia, singalongs, cocktails and friendship bracelet making! Bracelet making??? I’m starting to get jealous of these fans…sounds like so much fun.

Venture Room Drag Brunch: Taylor Swift Drag Queen!? Oh now you’re talking. If you’re free December 8th, hit up the Venture Room on Cambie. One of Canada’s top Taylor impersonators, Carrie dawn will be singing some greatest hits and it’s a bunch. Who doesn’t love brunch?

Canyon lights: Vancouver’s iconic suspension bridge is being transformed into a giant friendship bracelet. Between December 5-9, this park is turning their famously known treetop adventure, to TAYtop adventure…very creative. You’ll also be invited to walk the cliff walk…or shall I say Swiftwalk (I like this one better). Enjoy thousands of lights, brightening up the Taylor Swift Bridge park.

Looking at just a few options to celebrate the infamous Taylor Swift looks like an absolute party. These events alone may just be enough to convert me! Please stay safe out there swifties as you enter possibly the most exciting season of your life.