The City of Vancouver is asking for your input, again. They've created a Dog Strategy Task Force, and are asking for public opinions, ideas and concerns about dogs in the city.

The next meeting is in Kerrisdale, at the Community Centre on Thursday, December 7th, from 7-9pm.

The only thing that concerns me about this is that the people who oppose or have problems with dogs tend to be the most vocal. Dog owners, the ones who should be concerned about what the city does, or doesn't do, for dogs in the city, tend to be the most apathetic.

So come on dog owners! Speak up! Take this opportunity to share your ideas - if we don't speak up now, we can't complain when they start cutting back the off leash parks or anything else we enjoy.

Real Vancouverites know that shopping in Vancouver doesn't mean "go to Robson and wander." Part of the joy of living and shopping in Vancouver is finding the great deals in unexpected places.

Two designer faces have popped up where you'd least expect them, and about as far away from Robson shopping as one can get and still be downtown.

Seven Jeans - sporting a darker wash and a slightly higher rise than usual - are piled high at the new Costco downtown for $39.99. Sizes are random, and today I found everything from 28 to 38. Because it's Costco, you've got to buy them; returning what doesn't work. For me, Sevens for $40 is worth a little bit of work.

Also spotted in an even more unlikely place were Michael Kors wedge boots and peep toe wedge shoes at Army and Navy. This is the genuine article, but again, sizing is a bit touch and go. Best option? Knock off work a little early and scope them out.

After all, how often do you find genuine designer duds for a fraction of the retail?

photo originally uploaded by ping ping

Looking for creative and unique Christmas gifts, but tired of the traditional arts and crafts fare? The SYNC at Nettwerk (1648 West 2nd Ave) is hosting Metier: A Winter Art and Craft Exhibition & Market. Local vendors offer one-of-a-kind Christmas cards; pottery; paintings and art; jewelery; home made baking and comfy scarves.

All of the Metier artists and crafters are local to Vancouver this year, and include artist/designer Carylann Leoppky, The Hob Snobs and Coco.

Metier: A Winter Art & Craft Exhibition & Market takes place this Saturday, December 9 from 10 am to 5 pm at 1648 West 2nd Ave.

Photo courtesy of Nettwerk.