You can break bread with friends and neighbours and learn more about Coquitlam during the Dish and Dialogues series in celebration of the city's 125th anniversary.
The series features three dinners: Thursday, Feb. 4 at Douglas College; Tuesday, Feb. 16 at Pasta Polo; and Wednesday, March 2 at Grand Palace. Facilitator Alden Habacon says each evening will be an opportunity for people to enjoy a delicious multi-course ethnic meal while meeting other locals and sharing Coquitlam experiences around the dinner table.
And organizers are not just looking for established movers and shakers, he said. "We want people who are passionate, concerned about the future of Coquitlam and really would like to connect more with those that live in Coquitlam… newcomers, people here for generations I hope we get a good mix," said Habacon, who is also UBC's director of intercultural understanding.
Habacon said participants can expect a terrific meal over several courses with a discussion after each serving based on questions he will present to guide the dialogue.
"For me, the goal is the depth of connections between people," said Habacon, who noted connecting people is even more important today when they are so busy, stressed and tied to their technology. "Although we're more connected today, we fell less connected, so here's our chance to do something quite old-school."
As stories are shared, a graphic artist will illustrate them and the drawings will become part of the Coquitlam 125 archive.
The first event at Douglas College will have an international theme, featuring Persian, Punjabi and Aboriginal foods, and students will be performing at various points throughout the evening.
Tickets cost between $25 to $30 (taxes and gratuities included, and the events are non-alcoholic) depending on the venue, and can be purchased online at coquitlam.ca/registration using the following barcodes: Douglas College, 558762; Pasta Polo (558761); and Grand Palace, 558763. You can also buy tickets by calling 604-927-4FUN (4386) or do so in person at any Coquitlam community or recreation centre.
Also, don't wait to buy your tickets, the organizers need to know the numbers as soon as possible.
