Burnaby Now December 29 2022

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Thousands mourned slain city RCMP officer

CorneliaNaylor cnaylor@burnabynow com

As 2022 draws to a close, we’re looking back at the top Burnaby news stories of the year, starting with the year’s No 1 story, the tragic line-of-duty death of Burnaby Mountie Const ShaelynYang

A FATAL CALL

Shortly after 11 a m on Oct. 18, emergency crews descended on Broadview Park near the Burnaby-Vancouver border.

It would take some time for details to be made public, but what drew the massive police response was the fatal stabbing of one of their own Const ShaelynYang, 31, had accompanied a City of Burnaby parks employee to the park that morning to tell a man who had been staying in a tent there to move along But an “altercation” took place, according to police Yang was fatally stabbed, and the man was shot but survived his injuries

The news rocked the Burnaby RCMP detachment and Lower Mainland policing community and made headlines across the country

‘TRAGIC LOSS’

Condolences poured in from across the country, and memorials grew both at the Burnaby RCMP

office and at Broadview Park

“Const.Yang 66231, I hope you heard us coming I drove as fast and as hard as I could.You were not alone I’m sorry I didn’t make it in time,” read one card attached to a bouquet of flowers along withVancouver Police Department shoulder flash.

In statements from police and fromYang’s family and friends, a picture emerged of a caring young woman who was inspired to become a Mountie after volunteering with RCMP victims services At the time she was

FALLEN: Const.Shaelyn Yang,31,was killedintheline ofdutyonOct 18,2022

PHOTO RCMP

killed,Yang was a member of Burnaby RCMP’s mental health and homeless outreach team.

Chief Supt Graham de la Gor-

gendiere, the officer in charge of the Burnaby RCMP detachment.

Yang’s death sparked

two parallel investigations, one by the Integrated Homicide InvestigationTeam and one by the province’s police watchdog, the Independent Investigations Office

Earlier this month, the IIO clearedYang of wrongdoing in the shooting

“The chief civilian director has reviewed the available evidence, including independent witness statements and video footage, and determined that there are no reasonable grounds to believe that any officer has committed an offence,” read an IIO statement.

Jongwon Ham, 37, who survived gunshot-related injuries in the incident, has been charged with first-degree murder in Yang’s death and remains in custody

REGIMENTAL FUNERAL

On Nov 2,Yang, a Richmond resident, was honoured at a regimental funeral

Thousands of emergency responders from B C , Canada andWashington State marched through Richmond on en route to the Olympic Oval.

“Shae faced everything in life with a laugh, a smile and an open heart, and the world was all brighter for it. And, yes, it feels colder now without her here,” said AshTan,Yang’s cousin, to the crowd.

VoterssentthreenewcouncillorstoBurnabycityhall

LaurenVanderdeen lvanderdeen@burnabynow com

This year’s municipal election on Oct 15 saw changes to the Burnaby council table but a paltry voter turnout

With the retirement of two longtime city councillors, Dan Johnstone

and Colleen Jordan, there were at least two seats up for grabs

Former firefighter Mayor Mike Hurley, independent, went unchallenged for the mayor’s seat and was acclaimed to his position

Election day saw three new councillors elected,

including one from new centrist political party One Burnaby

Former councillor Mike Hillman, who sat as an independent before founding One Burnaby, was ousted in favour of former Liberal MLA Richard Lee.The BCA gained a supermajority at the coun-

cil table, with six councillors elected: incumbent Pietro Calendino, Sav Dhaliwal, Alison Gu and JamesWang, along with newcomers Maita Santiago and DanielTetrault Gu won the most votes, with a little more than eight per cent of the vote (17,342 votes total) and

more than 4,000 votes ahead of second-place Wang Santiago is the Lower Mainland’s first Filipino city councillor.

Voter turnout in Burnaby was particularly low at 19 78 per cent (down from 32 per cent in 2018), with 32,251 voters showing up to the polls out of

163,076 registered voters

The BCA swept school board, meaning the Green Party lost its sole school trustee

BCA candidate Mikelle Sasakamoose won election as trustee, becoming the first elected Indigenous politician in the City of Burnaby

“We’re all struggling to come to terms with this tragic loss,” said

TRIBUTE: AheartbreakingmessagetoslainBurnabyRCMPConst ShaelynYangwasleftneartheplaceofherdeathatBroadview

ParkinOctober

PHOTOCORNELIANAYLOR

Deathofgirlhitbytruck promptedgrief,outrage

CorneliaNaylor cnaylor@burnabynow com

The death of 14-yearold Muska Behzad, a Byrne Creek Community School Grade 8 student who was hit by a dump truck on May 5 as she was walking home from school, was among the saddest stories of the year

‘I STARTED CRYING, CRYING, CRYING’

Emergency crews responded to reports of a pedestrian-involved collision near 11th Avenue and 16th Street at about 3:25 p m on May 5, according to a police press release at the time

At the scene, they found a 14-year-old girl who had been hit by a dump truck pulling a trailer.

A short walk away, Muska Behzad’s father, Lutfullah, who had seen the emergency vehicles, was worried his daughter was late coming home from school.

Questions to police at the scene soon confirmed his worst fears His daughter was dead

“I started crying, crying, crying,” he told the NOW in an interview.

Muska had come to Canada from Afghanistan with her mother and sib-

lings in 2020 to join her father, who had arrived as a refugee in 2018.

“When you come from Afghanistan, with the thinking that I will be living peacefully, I will be living longer because there will be no mine explosions, no suicide bombers, and when you come to Canada and those terrible things happening to you, it’s the saddest, the saddest moment ”

PUBLIC OUTRAGE

The personal tragedy soon turned to outrage from neighbours who said they had complained to the city for years about truck traffic in the area and the fact there was no sidewalk along a stretch of 11th Avenue.

The truck involved in

the accident was associated with the nearby Southgate City construction site, and real estate developer Ledingham McAllister shut down heavy truck traffic for several days.

The company installed a temporary asphalt sidewalk on 11th Avenue and redirected the trucks

In September, the city announced it, too, was working on safety improvements in the area

At a council meeting in May, Mayor Mike Hurley said the accident was being “thoroughly” investigated by the RCMP

“If the results of this investigation show the city could have done something different to prevent this tragedy, we will make all the changes needed immediately,” he said

Tragedy:MuskaBehzad,14,wasthe‘commonlovingpoint’that heldherfamilytogether,saysherfather

PHOTOCONTRIBUTED

SoccericonChristineSinclairclaimedthirdtitle

JessBalzer jfedigan@burnabynow com

Burnaby soccer icon Christine Sinclair cemented her place among the top headline-getters of 2022 by capturing her third NWSL title with PortlandThorns FC Sinclair added another title to her name on Oct 29 when theThorns defeated the Kansas City Current 2-0 in the NationalWomen’s Soccer League Final

Portland defeated San DiegoWave FC 2-1 on Oct 23 to reach the final after securing a first-round bye Sinclair played 16 games in the 2022 campaign, including playoffs, scoring five goals on 21

shots, 14 of which were on target

All of her goals came inside the box The NWSL says she scored two leftfoot goals, two right-foot goals and added her fifth via a header

Sinclair also won titles with theThorns in 2013 and 2017

SINCLAIR RETURNING TO PORTLAND FOR 11TH SEASON

Just days later, during a victory celebration on Nov 1, the all-time international-leading goal scorer announced she will be back for the 2023 season

“I’m announcing it here, I’ll be back next year,” Sinclair said at the podium in Providence Park

In February, the Canadian soccer icon signed a new deal with Portland through 2022, with an option for 2023.

“Everybody knows that Christine Sinclair has been at the centre of this club’s success since the begin-

ning of this league,” PortlandThorns FC general manager Karina LeBlanc said in a news release

“The impact she’s had not only on our club and this league, but on the global game, highlights her importance She is a leader who inspires all those around her to be better, while constantly striving to be a top-class professional day in and day out

“Throughout this process it was clear that Christine wanted to remain in Portland, and we are thrilled that she will be returning for the 2023 season ”

Since Portland’s inaugural NWSL season in 2013, Sinclair leads the club all-time in games played (157), games

started (152) and goals scored (59)

She is also just one of two players to score a goal in every year of the league

and ranks second all-time in goals, sixth in games started, eighth in minutes played and ninth in games played in league history

Success:ChristineSinclair(left) withPortlandThornsteammate SophiaSmithafterwinning the2022NWSLchampionship PHOTOPORTLANDTHORNSFC

Topic: Development ramps up

MY VIEW KEITH BALDREY

Eby pits new ministry against disasters

One of the more intriguing moves made by Premier David Eby when he appointed his new cabinet was the creation of a brand-new ministry to focus on planning for natural disasters, particularly those caused by climate change.

Its official name is the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, and the minister is Bowinn Ma, the MLA for North Vancouver-Lonsdale She had previously served in a junior portfolio as the Minister of State for Infrastructure.

Ma will likely fast become a familiar face if the pattern of weather and natural disasters that have befallen B C in recent years continues, and

there is no reason to think they won’t

The last few years have featured extraordinary events that were almost unheard of previously: a recordsetting “heat dome” that claimed more than 600 lives, more than 1,000 wildfires that destroyed an entire town and an “atmospheric river” that brought devastating flooding to the Fraser Valley.

Most recently, a record cold snap and a huge snowfall brought parts of B C to a halt and exposed the weakness of municipal and provincial snow-clearing abilities (something hardly given even a thought to until this year)

Ma has already held one news conference (along with Transportation Minister Rob

Fleming) to deal with the recent snow and cold weather event, and she is certain to be holding many more in the time ahead.

But aside from building a public profile, Ma will also be expected to steadily improve the co-ordination of various ministries and different levels of government to respond to emergencies

It will be interesting to see how Ma works with municipal governments when dealing with disasters Will the province take more control when it comes to mass flooding or huge snowfalls?

Eby has already indicated he is prepared to go over municipalities’ heads when it comes to creating housing, so it is quite possible Ma may take the same approach.

The creation of this new ministry is a sign that climate change and its devastating effects are now elevated to a top level of government concern (emergency management had previously been part of the public safety ministry)

B.C. got its first health minister in the 1940s as population growth resulted in a more complicated and larger health-care system

In 1975, as environmental values began to take hold in the public consciousness, the province’s first standalone environment ministry was created.

And now we have a climate readiness portfolio Welcome to the times

Keith Baldrey is chief political reporter for Global BC.

“Disgusting ... why were these approved ? Money, I guess Pretty sad ”

“Quality of living loses to overcrowding, what a future Sad, greed rules all! Services will not keep pace and council doesn’t care!”

Janet Dixon via Facebook

David Witcomb via Facebook

A pledge to support families

PeterJulian peter julian c1@parl gc ca

Every moment of this year, I’ve worked to keep the focus on one priority fighting for you and your family.

New Democrats continue to use their power in a minority Parliament to push the Liberal government to provide support to families during this affordability crisis There is much work still to do, and we’re not letting up But so far, New Democrats have been able to get three essential supports for people across the country

We pushed for Dental Care After Liberals and Conservatives voted against dental care twice in Parliament, the NDP forced the government to give uninsured families making under $90,000 dental care for kids under 12 Next year, we are pushing to expand it to cover seniors, people with disabilities and youth under 18

Secondly, we fought for an expansion of the Canada housing benefit Eligible Canadian renters are receiving a one-time tax-free payment of $500 to help with the rising rent costs

This benefit will assist almost two million Canadians

Thirdly, we fought for a doubling of the GST credit. New Democrats succeeded in pushing the government to double the GST tax credit to help families with the increasing cost of living

The fight doesn’t end there! Greedflation continues to contribute to the rising cost of living, as large corporations increase prices to boost their profits. Canadians cannot afford to rely on a government that protects the interests of wealthy corporations first

New Democrats are focused on fighting for working families across the country to ensure their lives are made less difficult and more affordable.

If you have any questions about applying for the benefits listed above, please contact my office via phone: 604-7755707, or email: peter julian c1@parl gc ca

All the best of the holiday season to you and your family. I pledge to keep fighting for you alongside Jagmeet Singh and the NDP caucus in 2023

Peter Julian is MP for NewWestminster Burnaby.

Giving to VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation means transforming health care for all British Columbians. Your support helps to fund the critical research, technology and equipment that our health care teams rely on to save and improve the lives of patients from across the province

Make a gift before the end of the year and aid in providing our health care teams with what is needed to keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible in patient care.

Let’s continue to transform health care together. Please give today.

Partial

Weather extremes punished city in 2022

The elements wasted no time in sending mayhem our way in 2022, with an atmospheric river hitting the city on Jan 12, bringing around 100 mm of rain over 24 hours and triggering public safety warnings to beware of localized flooding That concern was due in part to melting snow, with increased snowmelt contributing to runoff.

HEATWAVE

The city was also no stranger to extreme heat during the year, with a heat wave gripping Burnaby in June On June 27, the NOW reported that the city was hosting cooling centre open houses with community groups, providing resources on how to prepare for and survive extreme heat

Burnaby opened up its four cooling centres to provide heat relief as temperatures rose that week. The city also suggested libraries, community centres, shopping malls and city hall as ways to stay safe

Burnaby community groups hosted booths at the open house, providing information pamphlets on dealing with heat in a variety of situations, including different living situations and for pet owners

Free buckets were provided to open house attendees, encouraging people to “self-douse” soak their feet in cold water in order to lower their core body temperature Burnaby Neighbourhood House signed up volunteer drivers to pick up and drop off seniors from cool-

ing centres around Burnaby. It also collected donations of fans

The Burnaby RCMP also prepared to hand out packages to unhoused people, including water, electrolyte powder packages, sunscreen, lip balm and granola bars

WIND STORM

Early last month, a pow-

erful wind storm hit the city, causing widespread damage to homes and vehicles and leaving thousands without power Wind gusts as high as 90 km/h were reported as the storm, in the early morning hours of Nov. 5, caused widespread power outages onVancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast and across MetroVancou-

ver and the FraserValley BC Hydro noted that crews trying to restore power faced danger from falling trees

“The wind knocked down trees and branches many of them weakened by the summer’s drought causing them to come into contact with BC Hydro’s electrical equipment As a result, crews continue to be busy repairing damaged power lines, power poles and other equipment,” the utility said in a release.

DEEP FREEZE, DEEP SNOW

November also marked a major snowfall that descended on Burnaby

The Nov 29 storm snarled traffic throughout the Lower Mainland, with drivers getting stuck on hills and bridges shut-

ting down

An even more severe winter storm touched off traffic mayhem last week, plunging Burnaby into chaos along with the rest of the Lower Mainland, as 25 centimetres of snow fell on the region the night of Dec 19

The city struggled to clear routes during the storm and in its aftermath, while garbage collection in some parts of the city was cancelled and Canada Post suspended mail service in the region. Bus and SkyTrain service in the city, too, was disrupted, with several routes delayed, detoured or cancelled

That storm was followed by freezing rain overnight on Dec. 22, then heavy rains that triggered flooding in low-lying areas onTuesday (Dec. 27).

AbhinayaNatesh anatesh@burnabynow com

After two years of onand-off lockdowns and other measures to fight the spread of the COVID-19 virus, throughout the country and the province, 2022 saw a gradual easing of restrictions

The doors to gyms and fitness centres finally re-

opened on Jan. 20.

On the same day, self-isolation guidelines were revised, with unvaccinated individuals over 18 who test positive for COVID-19 self-isolating for 10 days and and fully vaccinated adults having to self-isolate for five days

On Feb 1, long-term care residents were allowed to have visitors during out-

breaks. On Feb. 16, B.C. government announced easing of COVID-19 capacity rules for organized gatherings like wedding receptions and birthday parties

Theatres, sports events, fitness centres, restaurants, bars and nightclubs were also allowed to return to full capacity as long as rules about masks and vac-

cination rules were adhered to Provincial health officer Dr Bonnie Henry signalled the return of in-person graduation ceremonies and a more “normal” school environment for B C high school students

As of March 11, the transit mask mandate was lifted.The Canadian government also dropped

mandatory testing on re-entry to the country for vaccinated people The vaccine passport program was dropped on April 8 by the B C government

In June, the federal government suspended COVID-19 vaccine mandates for domestic and outbound international travellers and federally regulated workers

The B.C. government dropped vaccine passport requirements on June 30 In October, Ottawa dropped its ArriveCAN requirement Travellers didn’t need to show any proof of vaccination or undergo any pre/on-arrival testing Mask mandates on planes and trains were lifted and cruise ship restrictions were lifted

DAMAGE: ApowerfulwindstormtoppledtreesinBurnabyin earlyNovember Thestormwasamongmultipleextremeweather eventstohitthecityduring2022 PHOTO@ACMINBUR/TWITTER

LAWYERS

FLOORING

RESTAURANT

Some of life’s most important decisions require the upmost in expertise. Having served the community for over 60 years, Cobbett & Cotton has established itself as a trustworthy legal source providing top quality legal representation. Voted the Best of Burnaby by Burnaby Now readers for over 18 years, Cobbett & Cotton adopts a caring and respectful approach to bring about a resolution that suits you best

OPTICAL

Award winning wood flooring specialists, Casa Madera Floors offers one of the largest selections of Engineered Hardwood, Laminate, Cork and Vinyl Plank flooring in Burnaby Many product lines, colours and styles to choose from. Locally owned and operated for over 15 years. Burnaby’s A-list winner for favourite flooring store 7 years in a row

BAKERY

Eat lots, feel at home and have fun at Anton’s Pasta! Serving up enormous portions of delicious pasta for over 30 years, Anton’s is a Burnaby legend. Enjoy over 70 traditional and original pasta creations. Casual atmosphere, friendly staff and great food that will keep you coming back for more. OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER Anton’s looks forward to seeing you soon!

FUNERAL SERVICE

At United Optical they keep pace in this fast-changing industry while always maintaining a personal touch These local eyewear specialists feature a variety of lens options and brands to suit any need or task Personable, knowledgeable and professional staff always ready to help.

One of the most beloved neighbourhood favourites is The Valley Bakery, which has been serving delectable European baked goods in the Heights for over six decades. Using only the finest of ingredients, Valley Bakery’s selection is beyond compare. Try their delectable cakes, delicious cookies, fresh baked breads and seasonal favourites to name a few Voted Burnaby’s Best Bakery for over 20 years running!

Kearney’s is proud to be Burnaby’s only Canadian family-owned, independent funera service provider They are conveniently located, enabling their knowledgeable and caring staff to serve those in the community who have experienced a loss. From traditional funerals to celebrations of life, burial and cremations and pre-planning Kearney Funeral Services will help you and your family say goodbye to your loved ones with dignity and care. No matter what your need, they will help you at every step.

SATURDAY, DEC. 31

SATURDAY MORNING PITCH AND PUTT

Join the BCGolfPages Meetup Group for socializing and golf this weekend

This non-competitive meetup prioritizes fun and meeting golfers, with the added benefit of improving your short game. Anyone can play, whether you’re new to golf or a seasoned pro For more information, go to the website tinyurl com/GolfMeetupBurnaby2022.

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 31 at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Kensington Pitch and Putt (5889 Curtis St )

COST: About $11

WALK CENTRAL PARK WITH VANCOUVER ‘VENTURERS

On Dec 31, theVancouver ‘Venturers (part of the CanadianVolkssport Federation and theVolkssport Association of B.C.) are hosting a walk around Central Park

The walk starts at 10 a m , with registration beginning half an hour prior to the start walkers must register no later than five minutes before the start After the jaunt, you can join your fellow walkers for lunch and socializing

WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHERE: Central Park, Burnaby COST: For more information, send an email to vancouverventurers@gmail com

SFU WOMEN’S BASKETBALL GAME

If the weather allows, take a trip up to Burnaby Mountain to see the SFU Red Leafs basketball team compete against the University of Alaska Anchorage

The team is 2-3 on the season, with a three-game losing streak, though the last game againstWestern Washington was close

You can also cheer on the team onThursday, Dec. 29 at 7 p m against the University Alaska Fairbanks

WHEN: Saturday, Dec 31 at 1 p m

WHERE: SFU West Gym (8888 University Dr West)

COST: $13 general admission, $12 for ages 65+, free for youth eight and under and SFU students

with ID Tickets available through Eventbrite ca (search “SFU Women’s basketball”)

SUNDAY, JAN. 1

POLAR BEAR TOONIE SKATE

Celebrate 2023 with a toonie skate at Bill Copeland Sports Centre

This fun and festive skate is for family and friends to glide around the ice rink and chat about your big dreams and resolutions for the new year Skate and helmet rentals are included in the $2 admission fee.

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 1 from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.

WHERE: Bill Copeland Sports Centre (3676 Kensington Ave )

COST: $2, free for children three and under

TO THE END OF JANUARY

PHOTO EXHIBITION AT THE SHADBOLT

See the beautiful works created by local photographers of the Burnaby Photographic Society.The print exhibition showcases photography created in the club’s weekly meetings, outings, competitions and print nights.The show includes a variety of themes, based on the diverse interests of the members, including the natural world, the urban landscape and architecture Photographers use a wide range of gear from cellphones to DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.

For more information about the Burnaby Photographic Society, check out their website at bpsphoto ca

WHEN: Now through Jan. 28

WHERE: Centre Aisle Gallery and Encores Café at Shadbolt Centre for the Arts (6450 Deer Lake Ave )

COST: Free admission

Compiled by LaurenVanderdeen

Getout:JointheVancouver‘VenturersforajauntaroundCentralParkinBurnabyonSaturday.PHOTOGSPHOTOVANCOUVER/ISTOCK/ GETTYIMAGESPLUS

LaurenVanderdeen lvanderdeen@burnabynow com

Highrise towers, condos, demovictions, renters and unit sizes for years now, development has been a major sticking point in Burnaby Here’s a rundown of some of our most-read development stories

2022 was a busy year for the city’s planning department, which has seen the approval of two urban villages in the Bainbridge and Lochdale neighbourhoods

The urban villages are

intended to bridge a gap between larger town centres like Metrotown and Brentwood and smallerscale residential neighbourhoods.

The villages will see towers up to 25 storeys in some areas.The plans saw some opposition by residents in the Bainbridge area but were approved unanimously by council in July

Individual projects have also garnered attention –particularly the 80-storey tower and 73-storey tower proposed for development beside Lougheed SkyTrain

station at 9850 Austin Rd , 9858 Gatineau Pl. and 9898 Gatineau Pl

The two towers, totalling 1,466 market strata units, at 259 metres and 238 5 m respectively would be the tallest in Western Canada.

The project was opposed by now-retired councillor Colleen Jordan and by residents at public hearing, as the developer (which would usually be required to incorporate rental units in the towers) plans to demolish a rental building at 3846 Carrigan Ct across Lougheed

Highway and build a new tower with the rental units included on that lot The development has a few more hoops to jump

through before final approval.

Two separate Metrotown developments have also drawn criticism One, a massive five-tower development at 4750 Kingsway, includes 58 tiny non-market rental units, less than 350 square feet in size Mayor Mike Hurley and Coun Joe Keithley voted against the project, which has yet to go to final approval Keithley said, “It’s like living your entire existence in a super tiny hotel room ”

Just blocks away at 6031 Wilson Ave., a develop-

ment with what a resident called a “poor door” and “segregated amenities” is nearing approval The project has two separate entrances for strata condo owners and renters and has separated amenities for renters and owners.

Meanwhile, the Brentwood area saw four master plans approved with little fanfare, though the plans account for about 8,100 new housing units Grosvenor Brentwood, South Yards, Bassano and BrentwoodWest will bring 19 highrise towers between 30 and 64 storeys to the area.

LaurenVanderdeen lvanderdeen@burnabynow com

There are many ways to celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of something new

Whether you want to party hard on the 31st till the morning comes on Jan 1 or take your family to a Japanese mochimaking event earlier in the week, Burnaby has you covered with a variety of year-end celebrations

Tickets will go fast for many of these events, so make sure you book early

Glitz and Glamour at HiltonVancouver Metrotown

This NewYear’s Eve

celebration at the Hilton Vancouver Metrotown promises to be a party for the ages With glitz and glam at the forefront, the dress code asks for formal attire.

You can pick tickets for the dinner and dance (the dinner will be catered by the Hilton’s executive chef and feature a dinner band) for $120 or skip the dinner and head straight to the dance floor – dance only tickets are $60 with a 9:30 p.m. admission.

Dance to top 40 hits, Latin, funk, Afro beats and more on three dance floors. Call the Hilton at 604-438-1200 for room rates, if you’d like to a spot to crash after the clock hits midnight

When: Saturday, Dec 31, doors open at 6 p m for dinner

Where: HiltonVancouver Metrotown (6083 McKay Ave )

Cost: $120 for dinner and dance tickets (plus fees), $60 for dance only Tickets available online

Admiral Pub and Grill

Ring in the new year at the Admiral Pub and Grill with a delicious dinner buffet and a live band

The Golden Archies will play rock classics and deep tracks from the ’60s to the ’00s for this festive New Year’s party.

When: Saturday, Dec 31 from 7 p m to 1 a m

Pre-NewYear’seventsprovidewarm-uptoDec.31

Where:The Admiral Pub and Grill (4125 Hastings St )

Cost: $95 plus tax and gratuities, call 604-2987158 for tickets

Rec Room NewYear’s Eve Bash

This party at the Rec Room has it all: unlimited game play at the arcade, prosecco toast, live

entertainment with DJ the Stuntman Greg, tarot readings and a photo booth

Attendees must be legal drinking age and have valid ID.

When: Saturday, Dec 31 at 9 p m

Where: The Rec Room at Brentwood (1920Willingdon Ave, unit 2106)

Cost: $36 78, tickets available through

Eventbrite

Cosmos Groove at LougheedVillage Bar and Grill

Rock cover band Cosmos Groove will play at the Cheers-like bar at LougheedVillage Bar and Grill on NewYear’s Eve Music starts at 6:30 p m with Sheila Sharma and Carabine, and Cosmos Groove comes in at 9 p.m.

Party favours come out at midnight, and you can ring in the new year until 2 a m

When: Saturday, Dec 31 at 6 p m

Where: LougheedVillage Bar and Grill (9304 Salish Ct ) Cost: $20

Pre-NewYear’s Eve Parties in Burnaby Don’t let Dec. 31 steal

all the glory, Friday night on the 30th has lots to do too!

NewYear’s Eve “Eve”

The Admiral will host a NewYear’s Eve warm-up party on the 30th, offering revellers “an early and less expensive NewYear’s party alternative” with just as much fun Classic rock band Kickstart will perform.

Dress to the nines, bring balloons and pretend it’s NewYear’s Eve proper as celebrations for the night before the NewYear’s weekend ramp up

When: Friday, Dec. 30 at 8:30 p m

Where: The Admiral Pub and Grill (4125 Hastings St.)

Cost: $6 cover, no tickets required; reserve a table

Family-friendlyeventsonoffer

formed by Satsuki-kai

early at reservations@ admiralburnaby.com

K-pop Party at the Rec Room

The Rec Room will host a K-pop party This event has sold out seven nights in a row, so get your tickets to dance to the best of Korean dance-floor music with DJYuka K

This is a licensed, 19+ event No refunds on tickets, though tickets are transferrable.

When: Friday, Dec 30 at 9 p m to 1 a m

Where: The Rec Room at Brentwood (1920Willingdon Ave, unit 2106)

Cost: $24 30 plus fees, tickets available online at www therecroom com/burnaby-brentwood/ events

FAMILY-FRIENDLY NEW YEAR’S EVENTS

Nikkei Mochitsuki

Just before NewYear’s, head to the Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre for Nikkei Mochitsuki, or “mochi pounding ”

This traditional Japanese NewYear’s and yearend activity celebrates the community to make “glutinous rice cakes the oldfashioned way: with a hollowed-out tree trunk and wooden mallet,” according to the museum’s website.

Everyone is invited to this fun cultural experience to try making mochi While you’re there, the Vancouver Japanese Gardeners Association will feature a mochi-pounding demonstration, and a Japanese dance will be per-

For more information and a schedule of events, see centre nikkeiplace org

When: Thursday, Dec. 29 from 11 a m to 3 p m

Where: Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre (6688 Southoaks Cres ) Cost: Free admission

NewYear’s

EveToonie Skate

Glide your way into the NewYear in the afternoon on Dec 31 at Kensington Complex ice rink The city will host a fun event with activities for children When: Saturday, Dec 31 from noon to 3 p m Where: Kensington Complex (6159 Curtis St )

Cost: $2 per person, free for children under three

MargaretCoates

lions view@telus net

The winter months can be magical We might cozy down with a blanket and a good book or movie, go for a walk on a crisp winter day, or enjoy the holiday atmosphere generated by the many celebrations held at this time of year

It is hard to think that this cold weather, as well as the summer sun, can cause negative impacts for seniors. However, according to the report Closing the Gaps:Advancing Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery for Older Adults, “compared to other age groups, older adults consistently expe-

rience the greatest proportion of casualties during and after emergencies both in Canada and internationally”

In B C , after the heat dome in 2021, it was found that of the 650 who died, the greatest proportion were seniors Many of those older people had underlying health conditions and poorly ventilated living arrangements We also know that a major percentage of deaths attributed to COVID-19 were older people, especially those who lived in longterm care or had underlying health conditions

As we have seen reported in the media, natural disasters are increasing

in frequency and severity across Canada due to climate change It seems we can expect more heat waves, forest fires (and their attendant smoke issues), drought and heavy rainfall.

We may also expect to see more serious side effects of the pandemic such as long COVID, additional virus variants and a spike in other respiratory diseases.

It is with some dismay that I witness the rise in respiratory infections in very young people, and, of course, seniors with respiratory conditions are also susceptible.

Though information

and action around emergency preparedness has improved, there is still a lot to be done to increase resiliency around negative climate impacts, especially for seniors In the report mentioned earlier, the author recommends the country prepare for disasters at the individual, organizational, community and governmental levels.

On the North Shore, the 18-member seniors working group, who over the two years of the pandemic looked at the serious impacts of COVID-19 on older people, pivoted to looking at the impacts of climate change and emergency preparedness. At the municipal level, North Shore

Emergency Management, along with its own efforts to disseminate information and prepare the community for disasters, have supported the working group’s efforts

Local organizations looked for and received funding for partnership projects to assist seniors in becoming more aware of emergencies and how to prepare One partnership project is looking at providing a program in seniors’ buildings. A volunteer group within a building would provide information and strategies to prepare residents to deal with a disaster Another age-friendly project is looking at building seniors’ resiliency around emergencies by

providing information in groups, through friendly phone calls and delivering resource kits directly to seniors of diverse backgrounds

At the community level, agencies have also increased their efforts to provide supports for older people, such as cooling and water stations, as well

as hot meals and shelter in the colder months. Many of the groups have stockpiled fans to give out in the hotter months, too.

In terms of the province’s role, it was great to hear that the new Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness has been established, and that a

North Shore MLA has been given the portfolio Seniors’ groups on the North Shore are ready to work with Bowinn Ma as her plans unfold.

But as the report I referred to above says, there is much that you as a senior can do to prepare for emergencies

For example, you can prepare disaster kits and make evacuation plans The kit should contain supplies such as food, water, clothing, medication, batteries and chargers It should also have a list of emergency phone contacts including family and friends

If this seems overwhelming, some organizations such as Canadian Red Cross have ready-

made disaster kits

The province’s website on emergency preparedness suggests a “grab and go” kit, which is a bit smaller than a stay-athome emergency kit but easy to take if you have to leave your home quickly

One of my favourite pieces of advice is to stick an old pair of sneakers under your bed with a flashlight tucked into it In the event of a disaster, shoes are important protection from debris such as broken glass

I think we should hope for the best, but be prepared in the event of an emergency

Margaret Coates (lions view@telus.net) is co-ordinator of Lionsview Seniors’ Planning Society

Seniorscantakethesestepstoreduceholidaystress

MargaretCoates

lions view@telus net

I do not know about you, but for the first time in a while I am excited about the holiday season this year.

After dealing with the constraints that COVID-19 put on us over the holiday season in the last few years, we may be back to enjoying more normal activities. Most of us are looking forward to a holiday season full of fun and joy, unshackled by the pandemic

However, this time of year, as I have noted in the past, can also be somewhat stressful as we try to meet all the expectations that go with the season Ironically, the pandemic often forced us to cut back on our favourite activities because of masking, distancing and not being allowed to congregate in large groups. However, while this may have reduced some of the usual stresses of the season, it also increased loneliness and a sense of disconnectedness

The holiday season is generally when we take up more activities in addition to performing our usual daily pursuits.This extra activity can increase

our stress levels as we try to get everything done from buying gifts and baking, to decorating inside and outside our homes, going to get-togethers and more It can also cause us to neglect our good habits such as exercise and maintaining a good diet It is so hard to pass up the goodies and to take an extra walk after a high-calorie dinner full of our favourite things

Seniors may be more at risk for increased stress than a younger person, and this may affect our health. An article written in HarvardWomen’s HealthWatch states that “while stress certainly isn’t easy to manage at any age, it can become more difficult to cope as you get older.”

The authors of the study suggests that an older person’s body can’t physically and mentally handle stress the same way it did when they were younger, stating that “signs of stress may mimic symptoms of memory loss or dementia or include appetite changes, headaches, anxiety, irritability, or trouble concentrating ”

In addition to stress, some seniors commonly experience depression at this time of the year as

they revisit old memories and mourn the losses and changing times. For some seniors who are somewhat isolated, there is an increased sense that they might be missing out on the good things others are enjoying

As seniors, taking care of ourselves without getting stressed will again be a challenge after the pandemic’s restrictions How can we manage to navigate the holiday season so that it is enjoyable and fun?The HarvardWom-

en’s HealthWatch article suggests that we can “manage stress by using relaxation techniques, getting involved in community activities, taking care of yourself, eating right, getting enough sleep, and sticking to other healthy habits ”

It’s always wise to pace yourself if you are overwhelmed by the addition of many events to join, cooking, or even attending big dinners with family and friends Spending extra money for gifts and

holiday goodies can be stressful when you are on a fixed income As many of us are experiencing this year, the cost of everything has gone up Taking time to plan with a strict budget might help. Not only spending the money can be stressful, but so is taking the time to shop in crazy busy malls Ask yourself: Do you need the biggest tree on the lot? Does everyone need a personalized gift?

Taking care of our health means keeping up

with regular sleep routines and maintaining our exercise programs despite the call of the mall

It also means sticking to your good eating habits in the face of the abundance of the holiday season

Try surveying the goodie tray and take only one or two special treats Eat only at mealtimes and resist snacking, especially if you know you are going to have a big meal later

Giving of yourself can reduce stress Assist seniors you know who may be needing some support or extra social connection.

Donate to a charity that serves people at this time of year The food bank needs your support as do many other charitable organizations in the community.

Proper self-care is the gift you can give to yourself over this season.Try to take a few moments for yourself, take a nap or a bath, curl up with a good book, watch a new series onTV (or pick up a set at your local library) or chat with a friend.

Let’s get back to a new holiday season “normal,” but let’s stay unstressed, feel the joy and have fun.

Margaret Coates is co-ordinator of Lionsview Seniors’ Planning Society.

Dr. Ajand Nobahari

Dr.

Lovely Dr. Chantal Thériault

Dr Stephen Yoon

It is w th great sadness that we announce the passing of our fr end Helen He en was predeceased by her parents; the love of her ife Rod; and her faithful “l tt e g rl” Murphy

She s survived by her brother Doug as (Susan); extended fam ly and a large community of friends Helen was a wonderful educator she worked and ded cated 42 years at Sunny Hil Daycare Centre She enjoyed teaching the young children they were the source of her biggest joy in ife

Upon ret rement, she d vided her time between many arts pro ects, and crafts She spent hours knitting, pa nting, and plann ng her next projects Many of her creat ons were gifted to various loca char ties

Helen was never one to sit idled She always stepped-up and gave a hand when and where t was needed Later in life, Helen took on a new cha lenge - teaching adults and becoming a board member at Burnaby’s Community Centre Col ege for the Retired

In her free time, she walked Murphy and friends, supported her fr ends and ne ghbours in her strata and made her fr ends fee specia with all her l ttle attentions and great gift of t me He en’s ph losophy of l fe was to treat people with respect and k ndness She truly apprec ated what others brought nto her ife

Celebration of L fe - Wi l take place n early 2023 Detai s to be confirmed

In ieu of flowers, donations in Helen’s memory to a char ty of cho ce or to one c ose to Helen’s heart ike BC Cancer Society, Arthrit s Society Canada, Heart and Stroke foundation, Canadian Wi dlife Federation s greatly appreciated

VEGH, Helen L.