Former Burnaby resident Frankie Cena was recently crowned Mr. World. Yes, the Burnaby boy who's grown up in the community winning debate competitions and talent shows is now representing Canada in a global beauty contest for men that parallels the Miss World pageant.
Frankie will compete against contestants from around the world for the Mr. World title, to be announced on Nov. 24 in England. Something else of note: Frankie is no longer a Burnaby resident.
He's moved to Port Moody, so you won't be seeing his name as often in our newspaper. He's also studying at UBC's Sauder School of Business and will graduate with a business degree in 2013. The NOW wishes him all the luck in conquering the world.
Christmas fairs
If you're looking for something different this Christmas, we have two upcoming craft fairs to get some of your holiday shopping done. Head to the Scandinavian Craft Fair on Sunday, Nov. 25.
The fair features Scandinavian specialties, arts and crafts, and admission is free.
The fair will be held at the Scandinavian Community Centre, at 6540 Thomas St. from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Nikkei Centre is also holding a Japanese craft and bake sale this Saturday and Sunday, from 10: 30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Vendors will be selling traditional textiles, contemporary Japanese-inspired items, home baking, handmade soaps and lotions, jewelry, hand-knitted items, ornaments, cards and more.
Admission is free. The centre is at 6688 Southoaks Cres.
Fun fair for kids
Burnaby mom Ellen Wong is organizing a Christmas Fun Fair on Saturday Dec. 1 to raise money for Vancouver Urban Ministries, which is partnering with World Vision to help Vancouver children with living in poverty. Wong has organized a small army of high school students to help, and they are planning to have 25 booths with various games. There will also be a concession, and an undisclosed item signed by Michael Bublé up for silent auction.
"I am so very uplifted to see our young people being so passionate in helping kids underprivileged and in need of a helping hand," Wong wrote in a note to the NOW. Proceeds from the fair go to Vancouver Urban Ministries' afterschool one-on-one therapeutic program to help underprivileged kids with learning disabilities.
The fair will be held on Dec. 1, from 11: 15 a.m. to 2: 15 p.m. at Westburn Community Centre, 4781 Parkwood Ave.
Donations sought
With Christmas approaching, Burnaby Family Life, a key organization in the city, is seeking donations.
The non-profit group, which provides support for families, immigrants and new mothers, needs to buy a new Santa Claus suit for a series of upcoming holiday parties. They also need help with cash donations to cover the cost of the parties.
"It is important to note that these Christmas parties serve children and families living in poverty who lack family support, who often lack an understanding of the dominant culture in Canada," wrote executive director Jeanne Fike. "Many families are struggling to learn English, find jobs, and will spend Christmas alone."
To make donations, get in touch with Burnaby Family Life by calling 604659-2200. Donations of Christmas decorations are also welcome.
Award nominee
Shairose Shamji-Karmali, owner of Safari Snack House, has been nominated for a Provincial Nesika Award, recognizing achievement in multiculturalism. Shamji-Karmali's restaurant on Canada Way serves African food.
The awards ceremony is on Nov. 23 at the Bonsor Recreation Complex.
Send Here and Now items to jmoreau@burnabynow. com.
