On Sunday, Oct. 16, Roberts Creek Hall (1309 Roberts Creek Road) will be humming with the welcoming sounds of reggae, Celtic music, and a community sing-along. The occasion is the Howdy Neighbour Newcomers Welcome Potluck, from 5 until about 8 p.m.
Newcomers started coming to the Sunshine Coast about 150 years ago when European settlers were welcomed and helped by the Coast Salish people. In the 1960s and ’70s there was a wave of newcomers – refugees from the U.S. and across Canada looking to live in the country “where the water tastes like wine.” And this summer there has been a new wave of refugees from the high cost of housing in Vancouver. Each new wave brought disruption, for sure, but also gifts. For example: one of the music groups playing the event is Double Treble, a newcomer husband and wife duo playing a variety of instruments.
This event is for “old-timers” to welcome “newcomers” and to start to see how we will live together. It’s being sponsored by the Roberts Creek Community Association.
There will be music, information about Roberts Creek and about local government, art materials and Lego for the kids, cool door prizes from local businesses, and, of course, whatever wonderful meal the potluck brings.
Everyone is welcome. The event is free – just bring food to share. Walk across the street and invite a new neighbour or just come and see who else shows up. For more information or to help out, contact Jane at [email protected]
