2023

This year, I was able to cross off many of the stories that have long been on my bucket list. Here are some of the highlights.

FRESH OFF THE SHELF

Putting Cultural Foods Back on the Table
The Steamy, Beany Tofu Factory
Love, Loss and Beef Balls
Sleepless at the Tortilleria
Taking Paneer to the Skies
Global Food, Locally Made

“How Vancouver Specials Got Their Guardians”
I’ve always been curious about the lions and pinecones that adorn Vancouver Specials. I visited Ital Decor, the maker of these ornaments, at their workshop on the way to SFU (you know that yard of statues?). The business was founded by Joe Tinucci, who learned the craft from his uncle as they restored post-war buildings in Italy, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa. These ornaments have a lot to say about the waves of migration in Vancouver, and making home in the city.

December 18, 2023

The Revitalizing Power of Indigenous Typography

August 22, 2023

Building the Future with Mass Timber

November 15, 2023

The Yips Are In the House Again

July 24, 2023

Down in the Ditches of Ditchmond

July 14, 2023

I spent a morning with Mrs. Liang on he
Why do so many immigrant seniors collect and refund recyclables to make ends meet? I spend a morning with Mrs. Liang, who tells me wh

“Why Affordable Housing Has Become Unaffordable to Build”
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“At Metrotown, the Mysterious Bridge to Nowhere”
Why is there a new stationhouse but no new bridge to the Metropolis mall? (It’s called a “passerelle,” you swine.) I uncover the early plans to connect what was then an industrial neighbourhood with walkways and ask the City of Burnaby why we can’t use the old bridge and have to cross a crowded street instead.