Richmond News December 24 2020

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Thank you, Richmond 2020 has been a year unlike any other.

We have all been challenged in unexpected ways to step up for our communities.

But we’ve been inspired by the amazing ways you have taken care of each other.

Your support for frontline workers, seniors, teachers, neighbours, families with sick children and the many people with critical needs here in the community has been above and beyond, and then beyond that even more.

We want to say a BIG thank you for the unwavering kindness, generosity and togetherness you’ve shown for one another this year.

Thank you to our guests for always making us part of your day, and for giving back through campaigns like Fries for Good, which raised over $2.9 million to support both the Canadian Red Cross and families who turn to Ronald McDonald House Charities® across Canada to stay close to their sick child being treated at the local hospital.

Thank you to our incredible restaurant teams who have supported our neighbours on the front lines of the pandemic: providing coffeeto Richmond’s health care workers, emergency services personnel and teachers, donating meals to health care providers and donating to local community organizations including the Richmond Hospital Foundation, Autism Speaks Canada, Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives (RCRG) and more.

The generosity shown by everyone this year has made a difference in the lives of so many, but there are more needs to meet. The holiday season is a time of year when increasing numbers of families turn to food banks to put dinner on their tables, so McDonald’s Canada and our local restaurant owners from across the country will continue to step up by supporting with a donation that will provide 400,000 meals to Food Banks Canada’s nationwide network. Here in British Columbia that means over 50,000 meals to families in need.

We know there’s a difference between being in a community, and being part of one, and we are humbled and proud to be a part of yours.

From our McFamily to yours, we say thank you, Richmond.

Jacques Mignault President & CEO McDonald’s Canada

Bill Chao Owner and Operator Richmond

Joe Guzzo Owner and Operator Richmond, Vancouver, Delta, New Westminster, Burnaby

Stephen Krawchuk Owner and Operator Richmond, Delta, Ladner

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

OPINION

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Housing trumps bowling Indian farmers fighting Dear Editor, On Dec. 15, Richmond city council held a Special Council Meeting where it approved the design of a $5.3 million controversial lawn bowling clubhouse.

I was particularly confused by councillor Alexa Loo’s comments on affordable housing. She stated, “there is plenty of affordable housing coming down the pipe, and it’s coming close by, and we don’t have to stick them in the park.”

Loo’s comments are inaccurate. We do not have adequate affordable housing in Richmond. According the City of Richmond Affordable Housing 2019 Update, there were 825 Richmond households waiting for affordable housing on the BC Housing list. Meanwhile, 20.3 per cent of seniors live in poverty, according to the latest B.C. Seniors Poverty Report Card.

These numbers are pre-COVID, I cannot even imagine how much worse this is now.

Even with these new affordable hous-

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ing projects Coun. Loo mentioned, we will not meet the increasing need.

I would recommend Coun. Loo read the City of Richmond Housing Affordability Profile.

Council should add affordable seniors housing to this one-storey lawn bowling facility or cancel the project all together.

Spending $5.3 million on a clubhouse is reckless and deeply insulting to all members of our community who are struggling.

The city needs to continue focusing on a recovery plan that includes all Richmond residents and actively works to bring our seniors out of such a high poverty rate.

The demand for rental housing has increased dramatically in Richmond, maybe it’s time for the city to create a rental advisory committee (that includes seniors) to ensure renters’ viewpoints are heard.

Karina Reid

RICHMOND

for their survival Dear Editor,

For the last few months, the farmers of India have been engaged in a very serious struggle for their survival.

The historic agitation/protests led by farmers from Punjab and Haryana are the first of their kind in post independent India.

The farmers are fighting for their very survival. These laws, if implemented in their current form, will give big agro business conglomerates control over agricultural produce. These laws would exempt corporate families from state level regulation, licensing, stocking, processing and marketing of agricultural produce.

Consequently, the farmers’ protest has attracted wide-spread support. Also, sympathizers with the farmers’ cause around the globe have enthusiastically come out in their support.

In this context, the protests all over the world, including Canada, are very much appreciated by the farmers in India.

There is no doubt that changes and improvements are required in India’s agri-

cultural marketing system for the benefit of millions of small farmers. Most of them own less than five acres. However, these Farm Acts do not serve that purpose and may do them more harm than good. These laws pave the way for large corporate farming.

What Indian farmers need is a system that will enable them to have better bargaining power and expanded involvement in the value chain through storage, processing and marketing infrastructure. In view of the on-going protests, the government has offered to amend the laws.

However, the farmers want them repealed and to start again to remedy the situation.

Balwant Sanghera

RICHMOND

Editor Note: In last week’s edition of the Richmond News, we ran a letter signed by Arvin Deas. Unfortunately, we did not get confirmation of the individual’s identity prior to the letter’s publication — which is our policy. We apologize for the oversight.

FORMORENEWS,SPORTS&COMMUNITYSTORIESSEARCHTHESEHEADLINESBYVISITINGRICHMOND-NEWS.COM 15% cap on fees charged by meal-delivery companies Video: Richmond residents lift car to free trapped dog Mall Santa receives heart operation in time for Christmas Student calls for mental health education in B.C. curriculum Richmond army cadets pile on the pounds for food bank Kudos: Richmond resident takes, deliver cards to seniors Video: Graceful excavators pile road salt in Richmond

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Farmers Movement has long tradition Dear Editor,

world for the Farmers Movement.

Re: “Farmers’ rally for India misses the point,” Letter, Dec. 17.

I come from people of the land and water, and carry the seeds of my Panjabi heritage, farming upbringing and Sikhi spirit wherever I go.

On Nov. 1, 1913, envisioning a free “India,” the Ghadar Party was founded

by Panjabis and Bengalis migrants in San Francisco.

The Ghadraites were a secular group and comprised of Sikhs, Muslims and Hindus, or as they put it ‘Ram, Allah and Nanak’” and established deep roots from San Francisco to Vancouver.

They used activism and literature to spread their revolutionary movement of overthrowing British rule globally.

Although they were ultimately unsuccessful, their ideals influenced the eventual “freedom” from the British and the establishment of modern-day “India.”

One should not dismiss people’s support in Richmond or anywhere in the

Unconcerned about influencing a “foreign country,” the Ghadarites focused on establishing the most basic of human rights — freedom from authoritarian rule.

In Sikhi supporting human rights is a fundamental duty.

From the recent three-year false imprisonment and torture of British citizen Jagtar (Jaggi) Singh to the instigation of anti-Muslim violence by Delhi Police; or suppressing the investigation of the Sikh Genocide of 1984; or using laws to eliminate democratic dissent; or interrogating and torturing marginalized Kashmiris; or suppressing the most vulnerable and poor through demonetization; or murdering of thousands by the secret police operatives, including my uncle; or colluding with billionaires to silence voices, the hands of the “democratic” Indian government and its supporters are dripping in blood.

Based on the legacy of the Gha-

darites, we have a responsibility to support movements against injustice in the lands of our ancestors, including the inspiring movement we are witnessing by farmers today.

Modi operative bearing a fake alias), but the Farmers Movement is about an awakening of millions, rising against corruption and standing for those oppressed.

The Farmers Movement is much more than an “internal law.” The new policies are designed to benefit corporate interests, not small farmers.

We hope you will join us in our struggle as we will continue to roar until we take our last breaths.

The millions of people supporting this Farmers Movement, and most importantly the farmers themselves, are keenly aware of the impact of corporations on the agriculture sector through pesticide and GMO intensive practices, leading to debt and farmer suicides.

RICHMOND

And opposition to these corporatefriendly policies exists in all 29 states in India regardless of the official positions of their governments.

It may be lost on the person who wrote the letter in last week’s Richmond News in support of the farm laws currently enacted by the Modi government in India (a person some of us believe to be a

P. Kaur Dhaliwal

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Pedestrians, drivers need to look out for each other Dear Editor,

I’m not a speeder. I follow the traffic signs, respect pedestrians, cyclists, even crossing rabbits. I would not make a Formula 1 trainer proud of me.

I look out for pedestrians, and when I see them at a crosswalk, I stop like all drivers should. Drivers need to respect the pedestrians and stop their cars to allow them to cross when they see them at the crosswalk.

At the same time, pedestrians need to use common sense when they quickly approach one end of a crosswalk, step off the curb (sometimes without looking for cars) and start crossing without considering how far an approaching car is from intersecting them.

Many crosswalks are located at corners where there may be a long line of cars parked all the way to the corner, thus obscuring a driver’s view of a pedestrian about to cross (like on Katsura Street).

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At other crosswalks, the view is not obscured, but they are in busy traffic areas. On many occasions, including this morning, I see pedestrians walking along the sidewalk and then quickly veer 90 degrees, stepping off the curb without looking up to see how far an approaching car is.

If a pedestrian starts crossing when a non-speeding car is less than three seconds away from intersecting or five seconds, if the distant view is obscured like on Katsura, the driver would need to hit the brakes hard to stop.

My suggestion to pedestrians: If there is going to be a quick and sudden transition from being on the sidewalk to going on the crosswalk, please look up and check how far an approaching car is before stepping off the curb.

Pink Dang

RICHMOND

RAPS balances business, care Dear Editor,

city’s decision makes sense.

It has been an honour for the Regional Animal Protection Society (RAPS) to operate the City of Richmond Animal Shelter since 2007.

However, as the city begins redeveloping the shelter, council has decided to partner with our friends at the BC SPCA to accommodate the animals during the next twoyear period of construction.

BC SPCA has a constellation of shelters that can welcome the animals from Richmond, whereas RAPS would have needed to construct an entirely new, temporary shelter, something RAPS could not afford. RAPS understands the city’s decision.

A recent letter in these pages imagines some sort of intrigue in which the city conspired to deprive RAPS of the shelter operations. In fact, the

More concerning are assertions that the governance of RAPS is somehow prioritizing “successful business infrastructure” over “compassion and care.”

As nonprofit organizations grow, successful ones adapt and apply best business practices to the nonprofit sector to better save funds to invest in community programs.

Since 2016, RAPS has gone from assisting 1,500 animals to 15,000 animals per year.

We have more volunteers, more members, our administrative costs are among the lowest in the nonprofit sector, and we have been recognized this year with several community awards.

thing but great support for RAPS requires a very particular sort of misunderstanding.

There is no conflict between applying the “head” of business principles with the “heart” of caring for animals — indeed it is the ideal path for a future of more and better care for the animals.

As we have made changes, a small number of disgruntled individuals and online warriors have disapproved of our progressive initiatives and professionalization.

We owe it to the animals to operate the most efficient, effective charity possible. That is what we will continue to do — without apology.

Happy holidays and we look forward to even greater achievements in 2021!

To interpret these achievements as demonstrating any-

Eyal Lichtmann

CEO, RAPS

“Santa rides alone this year as his Reindeer can’t Social Distance” But YOU can Be Calm Be Kind Be Safe Merry Christmas from all of us

604.277.4519

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Health-care worker receives first shot

A Richmond long-term care home worker was the first person in the city to recieve the COVID-19 vaccine.

near Francis Road (employee last worked Dec. 15), according to the stores’ parent company Sobeys Inc.

Jodie Jackman, 46, said she felt priveleged and excited to be the first person in Richmond to get the shot early Tuesay morning.

Two employees at the Shoppers Drug Mart at Richmond Centre, 6060 Minoru Blvd., also tested positive, according to parent company Loblaws Companies Ltd. In addition, an employee at the Shoppers in the Olympic Oval area, 5555 Gilbert Rd., tested positive.

Jackman has been working for six years as a recreation therapy assistant at a longterm care facility in Richmond.

The employees at the Richmond Centre location last worked Dec. 9 and 12, while the employee at the Gilbert Road store last worked on Dec. 14.

She said she has helped many families connect with their loved ones through closed windows and via iPads due to the restrictions in place at care homes.

Meanwhile, three schools have been flagged for COVID-19 exposures.

“I see how devastated the families are to not be able to come in and be with their families.,” she said. “My duty is to keep the family safe, and part of that is to get the vaccine.”

After the vaccination, Jackman said she felt good and encouraged others to get the shot.

Outbreak declared at care facility A COVID-19 outbreak has been declared at Minoru Residence, a long-term care facility on Minoru Boulevard and

Jodie Jackman was the first person in Richmond to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Nono Shen photo Westminster Highway.

According to Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), the outbreak affects the 1 East section of the complex.

Outbreak restrictions were imposed on the facility on Dec. 21, according to VCH.

Exposures in stores, schools There have been exposures in several stores in Richmond over the past week.

An employee tested positive at the FreshCo at 6140 Blundell Rd. at No. 2 Road (employee last worked Dec. 10), and at the Seafair Safeway at 8671 No. 1 Rd. SPONSORED CONTENT

In addition to operating the store, I also instruct Hatha Yoga and Stretch Yoga with a focus on women in their mid-life, Hodgson says.

Richmond retailer celebrates 40 years of providing easy- care fashions for mature women

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t’s possible to dress sensibly and chic at the same time.

For 40 years, Jet-Lag Travel Fashion Boutique, located in Steveston Village, has specialized in travel and fashion clothing for mature women.

“You don’t need to be travelling to shop here. The same benefits of breathable, easy-care, comfortable clothing also extend to year-round fashions,” owner Vicki Hodgson says.

“I’m catering to women who are not well served by the mall. The mature women in our demographic like to see touch and try on clothes, preferably in natural fabrics.

Before taking over ownership of the store in 2005, Hodgson spent 18 years working at the Vancouver airport specializing in buying, merchandising, opening new stores and then managing stores that included newsstands and gift stores.

“I was immersed in travel and tourism retail as well as buying, so when I left that environment and brought it to the store, I had a good idea of what people were looking for,” Hodgson says.

“I know what the best-selling travel accessories are and understand the demand for breathable natural fabrics for travellers. Additionally, I support Canadian businesses, those that are based in Canada and those who manufacture in Canada.”

The affected schools and exposure dates are Steveston-London secondary (Dec. 17 to 18), McKay elementary (Dec. 10 to 11, Dec. 14 and Dec. 16 to 18) and Cambie secondary (Dec. 14 to 15).

According to the BC Centre for Disease Control, there were 80 COVID-19 cases detected over the previous week (Dec. 11 to17) in Richmond.

—Richmond News staff

Jet-Lag is also an FDJ Prestige Retailer and offers a personalized service advising on fit and trends.

The store is conveniently located in Steveston with parking behind the building.

In addition to its fashion services, Jet-Lag is a place to get fit. A few months after purchasing the business, Hodgson added fitness classes, initially in Pilates. Gradually, the fitness has morphed into Calla Prana Women’s Hatha Yoga. Hodgson initially hired instructors for the yoga class before obtaining her yoga instructor certification.

“In addition to operating the store, I also instruct Hatha Yoga and Stretch Yoga with a focus on women in their mid-life,” Hodgson says.

During the summer months, the group practises yoga outdoors at a local park. During colder months, the classes move inside. This year, they have taken up space at a large local studio to allow for extra space for safe distancing and added Zoom classes when in-studio classes are not at option.

To enquire about yoga classes, call (604) 277-3331 or visit the boutique online at www.jet-lagtravelfashion.com.

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Flipped kayaker rescued from Garry Point

A kayaker was treated for hypothermia after flipping over in the waters near Garry Point Park on Sunday.

“When the current somehow pushed the kayaker away from the pole, the fisherwoman was eventually able to guide the kayaker and his kayak closer to the shore, where the water was calmer, and that was when we saw him climb onto the boat.”

The man, who was believed to be kayaking on his own, had flipped upside down into the water near the third beach at Garry Point and was hanging on to the kayak for at least 10 minutes in the freezing water before being pulled out.

The kayaker, said Reid, was “definitely not properly equipped.”

Andrew Reid, a Richmond resident, was biking along the Garry Point trails with his family when they saw the incident.

“He had full rain gear on and a pair of vinyl gloves on, but he didn’t have a wet suit. He was also using the wrong type of kayak for today’s weather.

Valerie Leung

VLEUNG@RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

“The current was pretty strong and it kept pushing the kayaker toward the poles in the water,” said Reid, adding that his wife had called Marine Rescue and 9-1-1 for help the moment they saw the flipped kayak.

He and his family, along with other community members, also flagged

Upon reaching the dock, the woman on the boat, Reid and another individual helped the kayaker out of the boat and walk up to the hill to where two ambulances were waiting.

A kayaker was rescued after flipping over in Garry Point over the weekend. Submitted photo down a nearby fishing boat to help the victim, Reid told the Richmond News.

However, the boat was having difficulty reaching the kayaker.

Reid, citing a Marine Rescue member

who was on the phone with his wife, said the strong currents were pushing the kayak closer to poles in the water and the fishing boat, if not careful, could have capsized as well.

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There is a tangible feeling of support for each member who participates.

Online group program gets you on the road to wellness

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nxiety, insomnia, weight gain and stress are some of the many challenges people are struggling with since the onset of COVID-19.

On top of that, feelings of isolation and loneliness make it even more difficult to take on health challenges. When social connection and practical support are needed most, pandemic makes them nearly impossible to find.

The creation of the Virtual Group Metabolic Detox Program by Brio Integrative Health sprung out of the need to connect and develop healthy habits in lockdown.

“We wanted to support individuals in regaining control over their health habits by leveraging the power of an online community,” explains Dr. Carin

Matsushita, a naturopathic physician and registered acupuncturist. “One of the main positives is addressing health challenges together as a group.

“There is a tangible feeling of support for each member who participates.”

There is also a practical side as participants can get real-time feedback during the Zoom sessions held regularly during the 10-day program.

“They can ask about what foods they can eat, how to cook things a certain way, or ask about recipe and meal ideas,” Matsushita says. “People can post pictures and recipes of what they’ve done, and that produces a very synergistic effect.

“They can have a lot of fun with it.”

“The program also addresses the matter of connecting people who may be experiencing isolation during the pandemic,” says Dr. Vanessa Yu, a naturopathic physician.

“If anyone plans to kayak during this time and weather, people need to remember to plan and dress for a terrible day and not for a good day.”

The kayaker was treated for hypothermia on site. BC Emergency Health Services confirmed one person was transported to hospital in stable condition.

“We are seeing people do this as a couple, or mothers and daughters together.”

That’s why Brio Integrative Health is offering a “buddy discount” for the Virtual Group Metabolic Detox Program. When you sign up with a friend, you get $50 off.

Once accepted, participants in the ten-day program receive the tools and support needed for anti-inflammatory eating, including a detox kit containing medical foods available only through a naturopathic physician.

“We’ve been using this detox kit for years, but knowing from our research that lifestyle interventions done in a group setting have better outcomes, we knew we had to put those two elements together,” adds Matsushita.

Since the program was introduced earlier this year, group members have seen improvements like more energy, less inflammation, clearer thinking and healthier skin.

“The best thing is they feel more confident about their health moving forward,” Yu adds.

The detox program runs from Jan. 18 until Jan. 27. The deadline to sign-up by is Jan. 4.

To learn more, join Brio’s free detox webinar on Monday, Dec. 28 at 1 p.m.

To join, go to http://www.facebook/ briohealth/. For questions, email briohealth@yourbriohealth.com.

Visit www.yourbriohealth.com or call 604-271-9355.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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Alleged teen sex assault victim launches lawsuit Kirsten Clarke

KCLARKE@RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

A young woman who received hundreds of inappropriate text messages from a Richmond RCMP officer investigating her alleged sexual assault case when she was 17 is now suing the B.C. government over the now-former Mountie’s misconduct.

In a notice of civil claim filed against the minister of public safety in B.C. Supreme Court on Dec. 9, the woman — identified only as Jane Doe in the suit — alleges the provincial government failed to adequately investigate previous, credible complaints of sexual misconduct alleged against the Mountie, Brian Eden, who is also named as a defendant.

The court document claims the province should be held vicariously liable for Eden’s misconduct and accuses the ministry of wilful blindness, negligence, recklessness and/or breach of fiduciary duty.

“The Minister knew or ought to have known of the risk of harm to the plaintiff or other sexual assault complainants caused

by Eden…but failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the harm,” the claim reads.

Eden was fired in 2017 after the RCMP’s conduct review board found that his decision to contact Doe via “sexualized text messages” was “fundamentally at odds with the duties he clearly knew he owed a 17-year-old sexual assault complainant.”

At the time of the incident, Eden was 40 years old.

The misconduct was flagrant and outrageous and caused harm to the plaintiff...

Neither the provincial government nor Eden — whose current profession and whereabouts are unknown, according to the recently filed court document — have yet filed a response to Doe’s claim.

‘Morally repugnant’ misconduct

In the lawsuit, Doe claims she first came into contact with Eden in early 2015, after reporting to Richmond RCMP that she had been sexually assaulted by multiple men

in December 2014.

asking for photos of Doe.

Eden was part of the investigative team assigned to her case.

The 2017 decision also revealed that Eden allegedly contacted another woman via text message, whom he had pulled over for speeding, asking if she wanted to meet for tea.

Doe says she first spoke to Eden on Jan. 8, 2015, when she phoned police to provide more information about the suspects who allegedly assaulted her.

But after that call, Eden initiated “a series of approximately 300 personal text messages” with Doe, which began with an invitation for coffee before escaLAWSUIT lating to include “sexually suggestive comments and sexually inappropriate photographs,” the claim reads.

According to the RCMP conduct board’s 2017 decision, the messages included telling then 17-year-old Doe “im a fan of yoga pants … hint lol,” “Don’t tell anyone but u have nice lips and nose lol,” calling her a “saucey little thing,” and repeatedly

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We are asking the public to donate a few dollars or some non-perishable food items

I Richmond firefighters ready to help with holiday fundraisers

n a world caught up in the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic, some constants remain - the Christmas holiday season and the need to help raise funds for local charitable causes.

Thankfully, the Richmond Firefighters Association helps address that through a pair of events.

First is a Food Drive/Boot Drive on Dec. 26 and 27, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., across from the McDonald’s location at Ironwood Plaza, that supports the Richmond Food Bank, which has seen a decline in public donations and a rise in need due to the pandemic and its impact on jobs.

“We are asking the public to donate

a few dollars or some non-perishable food items as a way of supporting those in our community at a time when food security is being affected,” says Colin Medhurst, public relations chair for the association.

Then, on Jan. 2 and 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m at Garry Point Park in Steveston (12011 - 7th Ave.), the Firefighters Association is holding its annual Christmas Tree Chip.

“The tree chipping event serves two really great purposes,” says Medhurst.

“First of all, the public needs a responsible way of getting rid of their Christmas tree. And by doing that, our association raises funds for the very worthwhile community groups we help support.”

Among those benefitting include the Richmond Food Bank, The Richmond Therapeutic Equestrian Society, and

“The misconduct was flagrant and outrageous and caused harm to the plaintiff, and Eden knew or ought to have known that the kind of psychological harm suffered by the plaintiff was substantially certain to follow,” Doe’s lawsuit reads, which also states that Eden’s misconduct was “morally repugnant.”

As a result, Doe suffered from “substantial harm,” according to the court documents, including post-traumatic stress disorder depression and anxiety; suicidal thoughts; difficulty trusting people, especially authorities; distorted thinking; lack of self-worth and low self-esteem.

The claims have not been proven in court.

In an emailed statement, the ministry said it would be inappropriate to comment while the matter is before the courts.

Touchstone Family Association, which provides family support services.

The tree chipping has been a mainstay in Richmond for decades.

Initially, it included a huge bonfire using some of the trees. Today, city workers turn all of them into chips that are used on local park trails.

This year’s event will feature a drivethrough drop-off with a small group of firefighters to conform with current public health regulations. They will be wearing masks and providing support by taking the trees to the chipper.

“Drive up with your tree. Open your trunk and help us remove it, so we don’t have to enter your car. We just ask that all the tinsel and any other objects be removed from the tree beforehand,” Medhurst says.

A donation of $5 per tree is suggested, and 100 per cent of the funds goes to the charities.

“The community is extremely supportive of this, and last year we raised more than $5,000, all of which went to great causes,” Medhurst adds.

For more information on these events, visit www.richmondreghters.ca.

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

NEWS

Join the conversation at twitter.com/TheRichmondNews

Loss of tree canopy lamented Maria Rantanen

MRANTANEN@RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

Some Richmond residents are calling for more protection of the city’s tree canopy.

Maria Rantanen photo

Some Richmond residents were recently lamenting the loss of a large spruce in central Richmond to make way for a driveway.

When Laura Gillanders called the city about the tree on Deerfield Crescent that was scheduled to be axed, she was told developers can build to the maximum allowable square footage and lot coverage — and therein lies her issue with singlefamily development in Richmond.

She points out, in some municipalities, lot coverage varies by neighbourhood, something she’d like to see in Richmond.

“In this time of climate change and wildlife struggling to find habitat, why aren’t we doing more to keep the trees and build the nice houses — it shouldn’t be that difficult,” Gillanders said.

The tree was removed because it was in poor condition and driveway construction

would have a negative impact on it.

Cindy Lee, who started the group Save Richmond Trees, pointed out a recent study by Raincoast Conservation Foundation shows 102 species, many of them birds, at risk in the Fraser River estuary.

“The retention of these mature, large trees is vital, especially for the large birds — owls, falcons and the hawks… we can’t replace them with saplings,” Lee said.

Furthermore, she added, trees that are

coming down in neighbourhoods aren’t necessarily being replaced in the same neighbourhoods.

“We’re really losing the canopies in the neighbourhoods,” Lee said.

In fact, Richmond’s tree canopy covers about 12 per cent of the entire city, according to a 2019 report from Metro Vancouver; however, the report notes, Richmond historically had large areas of grassland and wetland and fewer trees than other areas in the region.

Not only was the spruce cut down on Deerfield Crescent, down the street, three trees in front of a home had their limbs removed from about three-quarters of the trunk, so only the tops had branches left.

Topping trees and excessive limb removal that result in damage is prohibited; fines can range from $750 to $10,000 per tree, said city spokesperson Clay Adams.

Replacement trees are checked after final completion of a development project and then once again a year later, said Adams. If they are in poor health, they must be replaced.

The city’s arborist has said tree replacement is usually successful but there is no data to confirm this, Adams clarified.

He added homeowners who receive a tree removal permit usually plant 25 per cent more trees after removal, while city parks department said its success rate for new planted trees is about 99 per cent.

Search Deerfield Crescent for full story at Richmond-News.com

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“Because of the pandemic, families are cooking together more than ever before,” owner Leo Chang says.

“People are finding they need to upgrade their cookware so they’ve been looking for these products.”

Photo by iStock

Great gifts are in store at Steveston Village cookware shop

F

irst it was a banana bread bonanza, then sourdough was in style.

It’s no surprise that as the COVID-19 pandemic has left millions confined to their homes, more and more people are turning to their kitchens for comfort.

For those looking to up their game in the kitchen or stock up on supplies never used before, Hoya Home Living in Steveston Village has quality cookware for every level of home chef from amateur to expert.

Hoya Home offers all kinds of brand-name, high quality cookware, including coffee machines and gourmet tea.

Chang opened his store five years ago after working as a wholesaler. He has a passion for cooking and found opening a cookware store would be a good fit.

With a dearth of cookware stores in the area, he thought Steveston Village would be the ideal spot for kitchen supplies.

“People in the area are great

about supporting local businesses,” Chang says.

“We are so appreciative of the community and the city, they are so nice and happy to visit our store. The customer feedback has been great. We’ve been able to survive through a difficult time.”

Hoya Home is the ideal place to pick up a Christmas gift for anyone on your list, Chang suggests. From beautiful Le Creuset cookware in any colour or size, to beautiful Jura coffee machines, to luxurious soap imported from France, anything in store is guaranteed to wow.

For kitchen beginners or those who could use a little more help selecting a gift, Hoya Home’s knowledgeable sales staff are cooking enthusiasts who are well-versed on all the products and can make excellent recommendations.

For hours of operation and location, visit Hoya Home Living on their Facebook Page.

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

Help brighten the holidays for your neighbours in need Give online at RCRG.org

The holiday spirit is shining brightly thanks to the entire

Richmond Community This is where we express our gratitude, because, as you read this, a miracle is in progress. Over 2,800 of our neighbours in need - seniors and single-parent families, refugees and those who have lost jobs during the pandemic - are getting ready to enjoy a holiday celebration.

They received toys, grocery vouchers, and gift cards from the Richmond Christmas Fund, but that only happened because of you. If you made a monetary donation or collected toys, if you gave your time as a volunteer, you’re part of a truly remarkable story.

In a year when the Christmas Fund was needed more than ever, the community came together like never before. We were overwhelmed and overjoyed by the support we received.

If somebody tells you that holiday magic isn’t real, don’t believe them. We’ve seen it with our own eyes. We’ve seen it in the generosity of the Richmond community. We turned to you for help, and like magic, you were there. Thank you.

Thank you to our $10,000 Angel Donors!

Wayne Duzita • Rob Howard • Michael Chiu Co-Chairs, Richmond Christmas Fund

Ed Gavsie President & CEO, RCRG

A13

A14 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

NEWS

Sign up for our newsletter at richmond-news.com

Mitchell Island needs more protection: Wolfe

“Getting the stormwater infrastructure there is imperative.

A lot of the goals of the (stewardship) initiative are to protect and maintain the island, but it needs to be on and off it, including the surrounding area and the outflows.”

Alan Campbell

ACAMPBELL@RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

One of Richmond’s “greenest” city councillors has praised a recent environmental program to protect Mitchell Island — but warned there is a long way still to go.

Wolfe said there needs to be a Metro Vancouver air quality monitoring station on the island, along with a “hard cap” around the industrial uses.

Coun. Michael Wolfe hailed the city’s Mitchell Island Environmental Stewardship Initiative, which just received $75,000 from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund to support its ongoing work.

“We need a full perimeter assessment and maybe create a map with zones for protection,” he said.

The program identifies ways to protect and maintain the environment on the island, which is on the ecologically sensitive Fraser River estuary and is also one of Metro Vancouver’s major industrial hubs.

“There may be areas that are not even getting used; we could create mud flats especially for wildlife.”

Many structures from Mitchell Island industry are falling into the Fraser River.

Michael Wolfe photo

However, on a few recent trips to the area, Wolfe was concerned by some things he witnessed, such as industrial debris either on the island’s banks or getting close to it.

broken docks.”

“From the water’s edge, there seems to be little consideration from the industrial estate for the trees that are on the bank there,” Wolfe told the Richmond News.

Wolfe added that stormwater from the many industries on the island, with all the potential contaminants, is flowing straight into the river.

“It’s not fenced off and the industrial use is spilling between the trees with debris that is not coming via the natural flow of the river.

“We’ve received recent letters to mayor and council from people working there about the contaminants in the workplaces,” said Wolfe.

“Some of the structures look like they need retaining walls replaced and are tipping towards the water, along with

“I’ve brought this to the attention of some city managers and they’re looking at it.

Richmond city council endorsed the Mitchell Island Stormwater Infrastructure Feasibility Study in 2020 to identify opportunities to improve the island’s stormwater system, given the risk that potential spills or accidents pose to the Fraser River ecosystem.

The main focus of the study is to develop source control and engineered solutions for managing stormwater.

The study also includes education and enforcement of businesses in the area with the goal of creating sustainable green infrastructure recommendations that improve water and air quality, flood protection and provide habitat for local wildlife.

When completed, the city will determine the best methods to implement the recommended projects.

This supportive and welcoming community has changed my life (Kennice Wong / Volunteer)

“Photo by Pathways Clubhouse”

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Community non-profit helps teens learn about mental health

I

n Canada, mental illness affects close to 1.2 million children and youth.

According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, 70 per cent of those living with a mental illness see their symptoms begin before age 18.

To help educate and support teens with or without experiences of mental illness, Pathways Clubhouse launched a specialized youth program for teens aged 13-18 with the goal of promoting mental wellbeing and starting conversations about mental health to reduce stigma.

“A lot of mental illnesses start in those years, we thought it would be really beneficial to give them a head start in finding ways to educate them, provide them with resources if they need it and give them peer support if they need it,” youth and young adult program staff member Janine Lockhart says.

“The program is for people who do or do not have experience with mental illness. Some participants haven’t been diagnosed with anything. But they’re passionate about raising awareness about mental health and have been great people to connect with.”

Pathways Clubhouse is a Richmond non-profit organization committed to collaborating with people and organizations in the broader community to educate and

eliminate the stigma around mental illness while championing mental wellness.

The youth program, launched this year, engages youth in fun mental health related projects, hosts workshops and seminars that are relevant and meaningful, and provides resources for teens to be active participants in the community.

“I am incredibly lucky to be involved in the Pathways Youth Program.

This supportive and welcoming community has changed my life.

I have been fortunate enough to have had opportunities to work on different projects, attend fun events, and connect with fellow mental health advocates through this youth program,” volunteer Kennice Wong says.

“The positive energy and genuine compassion of each individual make every Pathways experience so enjoyable.”

To learn more about the programs and services offered

by Pathways Clubhouse, visit pathwaysclubhouse.com.

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

NEWS

A15

Join the conversation at twitter.com/TheRichmondNews

Fatal crash driver facing charges Alan Campbell ACAMPBELL@RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

Charges have been recommended against the driver who caused a fatal crash involving a Richmond resident at the Peace Arch border last year.

Tom Cheung, who was also the lead pastor at the Port Moody Pacific Grace MB Church, died when a

Porsche Cayenne slammed into the back of his minivan at the crossing in May of last year.

The force of the crash sent both vehicles into a nearby flowerbed, where Cheung’s minivan caught fire.

He died at the scene, while another person was taken to hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the Porsche was taken to hospital with non-life threat-

School board extends transitional learning Maria Rantanen

MRANTANEN@RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

The Richmond Board of Education voted unanimously to continue transitional learning until spring break for elementary students and until April 23 for secondary students, but with some modifications.

ening injuries.

Surrey RCMP said on Monday that a report has been sent to the BC Prosecution Service for approval. No other details were given.

Rev. Cheung spent many years living in Richmond

after emigrating from Hong Kong in 1996.

According to a statement released by friends of the family at the time of the accident, Cheung was a “loving husband of Athens, a caring devoted father of

Solomon, Benjamin and Elisha; and a generous Pastor with lots of love and patience to many.”

Cheung lived with his family near No. 9 Road and Westminster Highway for many years.

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Teachers in the secondary transitional program (offered to Grade 8 and 9 students) will be reduced from the current 18.5 full-time teachers to five full-time teachers, and check-ins with students in elementary transitional programs in the Richmond School District will be reduced from twice a day to a minimum of twice a week starting already on Jan. 1.

Liz Baverstock, president of the Richmond Teachers’ Association (RTA), presented a brief to the board of education about the workload teachers are straining under given extra duties during the pandemic.

For the Richmond Teachers’ Association, the status quo is not an option.

She spoke of the “profound fatigue” and “daily LIZ BEAVERSTOCK anxiety” of teachers, adding they are making classes welcoming for students with COVID-19 protocols in place, but “at a profound human cost with a workload that’s not sustainable.”

“For the Richmond Teachers’ Association, the status quo is not an option,” Baverstock said about the elementary program.

“We need to plan for something that is going to see us through perhaps to spring break or even longer.”

She added either more funding or reorganization is needed.

Search Baverstock for full story at Richmond-News.com

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said the society’s president Kathleen Holmes.

Maria Rantanen MRANTANEN@RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

In previous years, vulnerable Richmond seniors have been treated to a hot Christmas meal at the seniors centre on Dec. 24.

But, like many other events this year, this holiday tradition won’t be happening, so instead volunteers will be delivering turkey dinners to 100 seniors around Richmond.

These meals will be accompanied by cards — some of them bilingual — made by Richmond students.

Volunteers will be at the seniors centre at 8 a.m. on the morning of Dec. 24 and by 10 a.m. they will be making the rounds, de-

Volunteers with Minoru Seniors Society will deliver 100 meals on Christmas Eve. Maria Rantanen photo livering the meals.

Staff from the centre have been calling seniors and, in that way, they’ve been able to identify who is isolated and needing something extra around Christmas.

The seniors society board members pointed out the

Christmas meal wouldn’t have been possible without sponsors, including the Steveston and Richmond Rotary Clubs, White Spot, Coast Capital Savings, Canadian Fishing Company and Save-On Foods.

“It’s the generosity of our sponsors that really makes a difference,”

Plans for 2021 at the seniors centre are going to depend on Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), Holmes said, but she is hopeful they will be able to have more in-person, social programming in the new year, and these talks have already started. “(VCH) is trying to keep us safe, and I’m thankful for that,” Holmes said.

Currently, only the cafeteria is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for takeout meals, selling for $7.35, but Holmes said they’re trying to get some seating opened up, with safety measures like plexiglass.

Search isolated seniors for full story at Richmond-News.com

“We do our best to cater to everyone,” Olak says.

We do our best to cater to everyone, said Scotty Olak/ Manager and Owner

“Photo by Little Mexico Cantina” SPONSORED CONTENT

Mexican dishes to get a spicy, take-home twist

C

raving a little bit of cuisine from way down south of the border?

Well, one of Steveston’s gems, Little Mexico Cantina, is ready to serve you through the holiday season and beyond into the new year.

Under new management since the fall, the eatery (located at 3131 Chatham Street) that has been part of the old fishing village for better part of a decade and a half is sporting some changes to the menu that will be sure to have you making plans for several visits to try them all.

“We’ve brought in some really talented chefs and changed things up to use more fresh, local ingredients in

Coconut prawns are also new, and so is the addition of chicken wings that come in a house-made, smoky, chipotle sauce, which is a new twist Little Mexico Cantina will soon be offering customers.

all of our dishes,” says new manager/ owner Scotty Olak. “We still have the staples—tacos and burritos, and burrito bowls. But we are keeping things simple and going to a more seasonal menu.”

“We will be making a whole list of homemade sauces, like our Devil’s Advocate, which we are planning to bottle and sell because so many customers are telling us this is really good stuff,” Olak says. “Plus, we will be making a quite spicy, homemade habanero sauce.”

That means in-season produce and seafood will all be sourced from the surrounding region to ensure freshness and a local flavour.

Currently, Little Mexico Cantina slips the odd small, take-home container of sauce to guests for them to have a small taste.

“We now have ceviche (seafood cocktail with tomatoes, green chiles, cilantro and olives), and the house poutine with your choice of meats—chicken, beef or pork—is very popular, as well,” Olak says.

Don’t worry if you are a vegan or require gluten-free items, all of the meat choices can be substituted to conform to your liking, and all of the tacos and tortillas are made using corn.

“We are just waiting on a few more details to be ironed out and we will be selling bottles of the sauces pretty soon for people to store in their fridges and enjoy,” Olak says.

And to celebrate the holiday season, wings are $1 a piece, as part of the all day long happy hour that also includes beer specials.

Be sure to check out the menu online at littlemexicocantina.ca.

Closed on 25th-28th and Jan 1st

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

COMMUNITY

RAPS appeals for Rhoda ACAMPBELL@RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

“A number of inspiring stories came in and we are helping four families,” said Eyal Lichtmann, RAPS’ CEO.

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“She was very healing for us in that period of grief,” said Robyn.

The Regional Animal Protection Society (RAPS) said Rhoda, a sevenyear-old Chihuahua-mix, has an extremely low heartbeat and requires a pacemaker to save her life.

One of those four was Rhoda, who now requires a cardiac specialist and, of course, the pacemaker, which is estimated at $10,000.

自1989年以來，我們一直在列治文市和 大溫地區努力地以客戶至上的精神為大 家解決法律上的問題。

Rhoda was also suffering a loss, having given birth to a litter of six puppies, three of whom died.

A Richmond-based animal charity is appealing to the community to help fund a life-saving pacemaker for a rescue dog.

RAPS’ appeal follows the charity’s offer on Giving Tuesday to provide 100 per cent subsidies for care at its animal hospital to four pets whose families are affected by hardships due to COVID-19.

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Robyn and Keith Wilson and their son, Leo, adopted Rhoda four years ago from a local rescue, two days after the family had lost their dog.

Alan Campbell

“Then she quickly became my son’s little sidekick.”

Little Rhoda needs a pacemaker fitted. RAPS is asking the community to help fund it. RAPS photo “Rhoda’s story is especially moving.

She came to us for a general checkup and doctors discovered an alarmingly slow heart rate.”

While RAPS is covering the costs for the animals chosen for the holiday assistance program, Rhoda’s case requires out-of-hospital, specialist care.

pls. call us for a

free in home caring consultation

Leo, who was 10 at the time, experiences anxiety and Rhoda became an instant (unofficial) service dog to him.

“I think it’s just her funny, obsessive, mothering nature,” added Robyn.

“She left her puppies and she took on my son. She’s always with him.

She means everything to us.”

The family has experienced hardships due to the pandemic — but a vet bill of thousands of dollars would upset any family’s budget.

1293A 56th Street

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Independent seniors living residence celebrates community and connection

W

hile Wisteria Place, the independent seniors living residence under construction in Steveston Village, isn’t slated to open until the spring, it has already begun to form connections and build an active community.

“We are becoming our own awesome community,” Wisteria Place’s community relations manager Maureen Fakaro says.

Wisteria Place is an innovative seniors’ living community managed by Optima Living that offers a range of petfriendly suites for independent seniors to enjoy nature and experience new things. It also has the unique outlook of emphasizing harmony, community, and

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We are here to help.

Donations are welcomed at RAPSbc. com/emergency-cases.

“Merry Christmas”

A17

“Wisteria Place is in a phenomenal location that backs on to a big green park, and the courtyard has a lovely large koi pond and zen garden,” Fakaro says.

The COVID-19 pandemic put an unexpected twist on the year Fakaro had planned. Instead of setting up a show suite and holding in-person events, they have pivoted to offering online education and gatherings.

proudly serving ladne er & tsawwassen

604-540-6373 difficult time. Wisteria Place also held a fun and interactive online Christmas party.

“We are about getting people to have a place where they can get resources and connect,” Fakaro says.

“We’re not just about being a place to live; we also want to be a resource hub.”

In the new year they will offer seniors fitness classes, including chair yoga on ZOOM. They’ll also start recruiting for their volunteer program.

“We already have people showing interest, and we’re open to ideas,” Fakaro says.

Wisteria Place’s last event of the year will be a virtual New Year’s Eve Party from 7:30 - 9 p.m. on Dec. 31 that will feature musical entertainment, games, and an early countdown.

“If you’re sitting at home, please come and join us,” Fakaro says.

“This year, we have worked hard to build up our community through Zoom,” Fakaro says.

“We wish everyone meaningful connections and community for this Christmas, and throughout 2021.”

By partnering with local experts and groups, Wisteria place launched a successful coffee talks series to address issues such as downsizing, decluttering, and how to stay positive during a

To join in on the New Year’s Eve event or to learn more about Wisteria Place, call 604-338-5280, email wisteriaplace@optimaliving.ca or visit the website at wisteriaplace.ca.

A18 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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Jill Raymond (left) with fellow artist Tara Travis performing “Merry Little Distance” in isolation.

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Artist performs ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Distance’

A Richmond performing artist has followed up The Isolation Sessions she helped release in the spring with a set of festive — and international — collaborations.

To help people struggling to get into the party spirit during the pandemic, Jill Raymond has recorded a series of videos featuring local performing artists, all while in isolation, hence the sessions’ title.

With some returning artists, the lineup includes classic, contemporary and some original songs with talented local performers, as well as international collaborations

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Most people can’t get together this year, so we’re making these baskets to help spread that Christmas cheer, include a variety of the winery’s award-winning VQA-certified wine and assortment of goodies.

Photos via Lulu Island Winery

Local winery’s gift baskets are perfect for holiday giving

W

ith gathering restrictions in place, this year’s winter holiday season will be a lot quieter than usual.

Lulu Island Winery, the largest winery in Richmond, is hoping to brighten spirits with its new holiday gift baskets featuring local wine and snacks.

“Most people can’t get together this year, so we’re making these baskets to help spread that Christmas cheer,” General Manager Leo Liu says.

The four options offered online

The cheekily named “All you need for staycation” basket includes a bottle of the Lulu Island’s merlot red wine, muscat white wine, the pinot gris icewine, salmon jerk, cream cookies, and chocolate. It also includes a bonus bottle of the winery’s self-produced hand sanitizer.

“Our hand sanitizer is made in house from our grape juice,” Liu says.

“While a lot of hand sanitizer smells strongly of alcohol, ours has a pleasant fruity and grape smell, which we’re excited to share with our customers.”

with vocalists from England and Spain.

The videos are laced with humour and wit, given the festive predicament most people find themselves in this holiday season.

The videos are free on The Isolation Sessions’ YouTube channel, with new songs released daily throughout the holidays.

The first two are already released, including the aptly named Have Yourself A Merry Little Distance. Search “Jill Raymond, The Isolation Sessions” on YouTube.

—Alan Campbell/Richmond News

The winery is also offering the option of customized gift baskets, for those who would like to build their own. As an added bonus, gift baskets are eligible for free delivery within Metro Vancouver.

All of Lulu Island’s quality wines are produced on site, using the best grapes from its vineyards in the Okanagan and the finest berries from the Fraser Valley. In addition to its table wines, it is also well-known for its blueberry and raspberry fruit wines and its ice wines.

Lulu Island’s wine has been recognized for excellence both internationally and domestically, winning gold awards in the All Canadian Wine Competition and the International Wine & Spirit Competition.

This is the winery’s first year offering gift baskets and they hope it will become an annual tradition.

To order your local wine gift basket today, visit luluislandwinery.com/basket

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

COMMUNITY

Help for low-income residents

COVID-19 has put a record number of families in vulnerable positions but a Richmond non-profit has stepped up to fill the gap for those turned away from other programs.

“We have seen a significant increase in the number of families

who are, or at risk of becoming, homeless due to loss of jobs,” said Tabitha Geraghty, CEO of Chimo Community Services.

While the high demand for social services has forced some agencies to turn families away, Geraghty assures families that

A19

Connect at Editor@Richmond-News.com won’t happen if they turn to Chimo.

The non-profit organization has so far provided 75 families with hampers, filled with food and necessities, as well as counselling services for families who have been unable to access other sup-

ports during the Christmas season this year.

Search CHIMO for full story at Richmond-News. com —Valerie Leung Richmond News

A20 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

BUSINESS

Sign up for our newsletter at richmond-news.com

First tower rises in new biz district Maria Rantanen

MRANTANEN@RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

The roof of an 11-storey office tower on Beckwith Road went up just a few weeks ago, one of the first buildings under development in a new business district in Richmond called Bridgeport Village.

The first office tower in the area, which is anchored by River Rock Casino & Resort, is being built without pre-sales, but Republique has come on board to market the units with a showroom on No. 3 Road.

“People are very nervous about the market,” said Randy Lim, principal of Republique, but he sees a glimmer of hope with news of a COVID-19 vaccine in the works, and he expects to see a “mini-surge” in the market in February or March.

According to Avison Young, a

commercial real estate firm, the Richmond vacancy rate for office space was 7.1 per cent out of an inventory of 4.2 million square feet in June.

Even in cloudy weather, the views from the Bridgeport Business Center are expansive.

Randy Lim with Republique is marketing the building.

Maria Rantanen photo

The vacancy rate for industrial space in Richmond was 0.8 per cent out of 38.5 million square feet at the end of the third quarter of 2020, also according to Avison Young.

With its proximity to the airport and being at the foot of the Oak Street Bridge, Lim calls the development a “one-stop shop” for internationally oriented businesses.

The Beckwith Road building has been named Bridgeport Business Center, and the development will eventually include two office towers and two Marriott Hotels on the site.

The building at 9466 Beckwith Rd. is owned by Mai Li Chen who recently purchased the property.

The office tower, which includes

space for a few light industrial units and a large restaurant on the ground floor — as well as four storeys of parking — will be strata-owned.

Units will range in size from 700 to 10,000 square feet and

the asking price is $800 per square foot.

In 2012, as reported by Business in Vancouver, the area south of the Bridgeport Business Center was earmarked for $4 billion in development on 15 acres of

what was formerly Duck Island.

(This is a separate development from the Beckwith project.)

The plan included hotels, a conference centre, a marina and 1.58 million square feet of space for retail and entertainment.

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RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

A21

BUSINESS

Help offered to tourism Maria Rantanen MRANTANEN@RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

The tourism industry — worth about $2 billion in Richmond and $20 billion across the province — needs to be ready to restart when travellers return.

But what is needed now is help for businesses struggling to survive during the COVID-19 pandemic, said Tamara Vrooman, YVR CEO and chair of the Tourism Task Force looking at how to help these tourismrelated businesses.

The task force was struck in September, chaired by Vrooman with Tourism Richmond’s CEO Nancy Small also participating.

The provincial government has earmarked $100 million in grants to businesses in the industry and $5 million for Indigenous tourism.

The focus of the task force was to get emergency funding out now, because many in the tourism sector rely on the holiday season as one of the biggest “revenueearning opportunities of the whole year,” Vrooman explained.

This was especially important as the second wave of COVID-19 hit after the summer.

“Making sure we had emergency funding directly and specifically for the tourism sector was our numberone priority,” Vrooman said.

Tamara Vrooman Tourism is a very competitive industry, Vrooman said, both domestically and internationally, so B.C. tourism businesses needs to be there when people are free to travel again.

She said this funding will tide businesses over so they will be ready to do business when things start to return to normal.

Tourism businesses will now be eligible for up to $45,000.

Destination BC has estimated tourism will be down in 2020 by 69 per cent overall from 2019, which was a record year.

In its final report, the Tourism Task Force states it’s unlikely demand in the tourism sector will return before 2022.

The $100-million relief funding for the tourism sector will be delivered through the existing provincial Small and MediumSized Business Recovery Grant program.

Search tourism industry for full story at Richmond-News.com

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A22 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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25-3477 COMMERCIAL ST, VANCOUVER

2-bdrm + flex townhome at La Villa in Cedar Cottage. Fully-updated: custom millwork, stone counters & brand name SS appliances in kitchen; updated fixtures, paint, flooring; & radiant heat in bath. Skylight & W-facing deck. Open concept living/dining. Gas FP. Pro-active strata: fully-rainscreened & newly updated courtyard. Lifestyle like the Flourist & boutique shops at your doorstep. Walk to Trout Lake Park & community ctr, skytrain & restaurants on "The Drive". Lord Selkirk, Tyee Montessori & Gladstone catchment. Pets & rental friendly.

RIVER GREEN TOWNHOUSE NEW LISTING

$998,000

1701-7468 LANSDOWNE ROAD

“Cadence” by awarding winning Cressey Development in Oval Village, 3 years young and shows better than new, 1,509 sq.ft. one level penthouse plus 1,078 sq.ft. private Roof Top Garden. 3 or 2 bedrooms plus den, 2-1/2 baths. Open concept. 4ʼ x 4ʼ in-suite storage. 150sq.ft. SW facing balcony. Tasteful décor.

Hi-end workmanship. Floor to ceiling windows. North West and South facing.

Unobstructed mountain and river view. 4 secured parking stalls and one storage locker. Club house facilities. Excellent location at the Centre of Richmond.

Walking distance to shopping, supermarket, restaurants and Canada Line.

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BUILD YOUR COMMERCIAL BUILDING RIGHT AWAY 9471 BECKWITH ROAD

21,505 sqʼ(85.69ʼ x 253ʼ) in this rapidly developing Industrial/office area. Convenient North Richmond location at Bridgeport & Hwy 99 neighboring Costco, Sky Train, Airport, Hwy 91 & 99. Currently zoned CA including Hotel & medical centre, etc usage; or rezone to ZI zoning with 1.85 FAR.

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103-5177 BRIGHOUSE WAY

Prestigious "River Green" in Oval Village. 1,393 sqʼ 2-bdrm, 2-bath+ den 2-Level townhome. 10' ceiling. living/ dining & open kitchen on main. AC + Miele & Subzero appliances. 2 parking + locker.

5-star resort amenities (lap pool, sauna, steam, hot tub, gym, theatre, virtual golf, music & study room, pool table and more! New laminated wood flooring; new paint. 24-hr concierge + shuttle bus to Richmond Centre.

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83 SOUTH DYKE RD, NEW WESTMINSTER

Developersʼ & buildersʼ ALERT! Water front View property in convenient Queensborough siding onto Howes Street amongst new family-oriented homes. The northern 22,608 sqʼ portion has a potential of rezoning to 4 or 5 compact lots (as per OCP) plus a bonus 1.175 acre water lot allowing maintaining & operating a marina for boat moorage at the southern portion of the property.

8.8 ACRE @ #6 & FRANCIS w/292' WIDTH $3,880,000

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SUBDIVIDABLE IN CITY CENTRE $1,799,000

PRICE ICE CE ATION AT T FARM ML LAND 207-6160 LONDON ROAD

You will feel like you are on holiday every day with this serene peaceful setting in historic Steveston! One of a kind custom built large 2-bdrm + flex room apartment. 1,329 sqʼ interior + 224 sqʼ covered outdoor living room + 342 sqʼ of 36ʼ wide patio = total 1,895 sqʼ. Spa inspired en-suite with whirlpool bath. 180 degree of spectacular unobstructed river view. South facing. Open concept. Tastefully decorated. Private elevator. U/G secured garage for 2 cars (w/2 doors) + 6ʼ x 9ʼ storage room. This is LIFE-STYLE!

604-1305 VIEW CRES, TSAW

“The Classic”. 2,005 Sq.ft. Floor to ceiling windows & sliding doors providing wide view of the Beach Grove golf course & Mount Baker on your 200+ sq' balcony.

Completely renovated. Contemporary, open design with new laminate wood flooring, quartz countertops, brand name appliances. 2-Bedroom & open den. Huge master bedroom. 2 underground secured parking.

Perfect for the young-at-heart who loves to entertain!

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8880 NO. 6 ROAD

AG1 zoned 8.848-acre farm land (292ʼ x 1,320ʼ) 385,419 sq.ft. Adjacent to “Country Meadows Golf Course”. Best location at No 6 Road & the future Francis Road. Wide range of usages such as : animal breeding, boarding, daycare, grooming & shelter/ kennel; fruit/vegetable processing & winery facilities, equestrian centre and farm business or build your mini estate while you carry on your on-site business.

9231 KILBY STREET

Great investment! Subdividable 66ʼ x 122ʼ N/S lot w/ back lane. Live in, rent out & develop later. German built solid & well maintained 2,576 sqʼ 2-level home.

5-Bdrm 2 1/2 bath, 2-kitchen, 2-lvg/dining areas, 2-laundry. Attic loft, solarium & enclosed front porch not included in total square footage. Big deck off kitchen. Carport + garage/shed. 2 Gas fireplaces.

Hardwood floors under carpet upstairs.

Great investment in the “Oaks”.

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

A23

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So long 2020 & good riddance e Let’s welcome a great 2021

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6760 Chelmsford Street

5296 Wellbern Dr, Ladner

604.908.2045

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Westmar Realty

A24 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

Gary K. Louis PREC 604-818-7000 • www.garyklouis.com

Happy Holidays

ST ED U J ST LI

D L O S 8731 Francis Road Potential Land Assembly Prime opportunity to own a great family home with excellent potential! Part of the city’s official community plan for rezoning, this well kept home features 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, games room and den. It’s spacious layout and parking for 7 cars make it ideal for large families. Centrally located it’s walking distance to schools, transportation, shopping and restaurants.

112 – 8511 Ackroyd Road Renovated 1 bedroom in well managed Lexington Square near Lansdowne Village.

3 year old updates include flooring, bathroom vanity, kitchen cabinets and countertops. With a spacious layout for your large furniture pieces, this unit includes in suite storage and a large patio deck. Walking distance to Lansdowne, the Canada Line, restaurants and shops it’s perfect for first time buyers or investors!

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23100 Garripie Avenue, Richmond B.C. V6V 0B9

Braeside #107 - 665 51 Lynas Ln

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We are proud to present our newest Retirement Community where you can live the Luxury Lifestyle You have always deserved. You will appreciate the tree lined courtyard, Life enhancing activities, Culinary Delights prepared by our Red Seal Chef, spaciously designed suites and amenities that is sure to strengthen your well-being.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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REMEMBRANCES OBITUARIES

PARSONS, Don May 28, 1957 − December 11, 2020 Sadly, Don lost his battle with colon cancer on December 11, 2020, with his wife, Lynda by his side.

LECKOW, Meros Meros passed away peacefully, age 101, in Richmond, BC, on December 8, 2020.

He was a pillar of the Ukrainian community in Canada.

Meros was a man of many talents, but was first and foremost a dancer. A child prodigy, Meros was a pioneer of Ukrainian dance in Canada. who also altered tap dancing and the violin. He began performing in the 1920’s and the following decade, regularly toured throughout Canada and the United States. He was featured in the Ukrainian movie “Marusia” in 1938. During the Second World War, Meros served in the RCAF as a member of the “Joe Boys” who entertained Allied troops throughout Canada. In 1945, Meros joined the highly-acclaimed Don Cossack Chorus in New York as its principal dancer and as a member of the group, toured North American and Asian. Returning to Winnipeg in 1951, Meros spent the next three decades introducing generations of young Canadians to Ukrainian dance. He organized and taught dance classes, and founded and directed the Meros Leckow Ukrainian Dancers and the Dancing Cossacks. His groups were a fixture of cultural life in Winnipeg and represented Manitoba in events in other parts of Canada and the United States.

Meros’ contributions to Winnipeg’s cultural life extended far beyond the Ukrainian community. With his wife, Lila Leckow (nee Thorsteinson), Meros founded and directed the Winnipeg Icelandic Saga Dancers, the only Icelandic dance group in Canada. He was a leader of the Community Folk Arts Council of Winnipeg, serving as its first Vice President, and a founder of Folklorama which he saw grow to become Canada’s largest and most popular multicultural festival.

With Lilja, he was an organizer of Folklorama’s Scandinavian Pavilion and directed it’s entertainment program for many years. As a leader of Winnipeg’s ethnic cultural life, Meros was a friend and supporter of performing arts groups representing countries from all over of the world.

In his professional life, Meros served for more than 30 years as an official of the Government of Manitoba’s Health Services Commission. A graduate of United College (today’s University of Winnipeg), Meros retired from Health Services Commission in 1984. He moved with Lilja to Richmond, BC, where he focused his attention on his growing family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, while also pursuing his passion of writing, genealogy, and painting.

Don was born in Winnipeg, MB eldest son of Ina and Norman Parsons. His family lived in Gladstone, MB, where he attended school, played hockey and had a lot of fun. It was here where Don met and married Lynda (Rogers) in 1977.

For a short time, they lived in Flin Flon, MB, where Don worked underground as a miner. In 1979, they moved to Yorkton, SK, where Don worked as a carpenter, achieving his red ticket journeyman certification. In 1989, they moved to Richmond, BC where Don continued his carpentry career.

From a young age, Don enjoyed working on cars − this self−taught passion becoming his lifelong hobby. Don enjoyed restoring cars, his favourites being Mustang and Beaumont. He could often be found working on his cars, attending swap meets and car shows, or sitting in his favourite chair in front of the garage visiting with friends.

Don looked forward to his summer road trips to Manitoba, stopping along the way to visit family and friends, always pitching in to help build or fix something, even cut down a tree or two, or helping himself to a cold one. He could not sit idle for long.

Don was predeceased by his parents and parents− in−law. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife, Lynda; sister, Jackie (Jim); brothers, Robert (Donna) and Dennis (Shelley); sister−in−law, Wanda (Aime); brothers−in−law, Randy (Donna), Clint (Karen), Brent (Yvonne), Jeff (Ailsa), and Blair (Michelle); 35 nieces and nephews, and many good friends who join us in our grief. At Don’s request, there will be no funeral service.

Family was the centre piece of Meros’ life. He was a devoted husband to Lilja, whom he was married for 57 years and in 1985 the two of them left Winnipeg to ultimately move to Richmond, British Columbia to be closer to their daughter Marcia. Meros and Lilja both loved and thrived within their family with their daughter and two granddaughters until Lilja passed away in 2002.

Meros is survived by his daughter Marcia Leckow and her other half Joe Boston, who loved him so much and cared for him for the last 13 years of his life. His granddaughter Kristin and her daughters, Lilja (who is following in her greatgrandfather’s footsteps taking Tap and Ukrainian Dance) and Leyja her younger sister. He is also survived by his granddaughter Carly Smith, (who dedicated her time daily to visiting him), her husband Mike Smith and their son Leifur Meros Smith, all of Richmond, BC. His great-grandchildren follow his Ukrainian traditions and love for dance. Meros is also survived by his son Ross and his wife Margax and their daughter Adrianna who live in Basel, Switzerland. Thank you to the staff at Rosewood Manor who cared for him in his last year.

Didi, you’re so truly loved.

This is your grand finale.

Curtains closed.

Richmond Funeral Home Cremation & Reception Centre (604) 273-3748

Celebrate the lives of loved ones with your stories, photographs & tributes at:

legacacycy.com/obitu y tuar uariries/ri i richm i hmondn m dnews n

HENDERSON, Martha Elizabeth August 23, 1924 − December 8, 2020 Born in Dungannon, Northern Ireland.

It is with great sadness that we announce that Martha Elizabeth Henderson (nee Robertson) passed away peacefully in Kelowna on Dec. 8, 2020, at the age of 96. She didn’t quite make it to her goal of 105. A long−time volunteer at the Minoru Place Seniors’ Centre in Richmond, she’s gone to join "The Great Irish Knitters". She is survived by her husband of 26 years, Duncan Green; her daughter, Helen; Helen’s partner, Ed; two grandchildren, Lawrence and Andrea; and three great−grandchildren. She is also survived by Duncan’s son, Wayne; Wayne’s wife, Edith; grandchildren, Ryan and Jodi and two great− grandchildren.

Martha loved her trips "down the road" and bus trips to the Washington casinos.

There will not be a service at this time. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.

PARKER, Timothy R. May 3, 1952 − November 24, 2020 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Timothy after a long and courageous battle with Cancer. He was predeceased by his mother, Paula, Father, Charles Fredrick as well as his older brother Ronald in 2018.

He is survived by his remaining brothers, Barry (Joanne) and Dennis (Sharon) Parker; as well as his niece, Kimberly; and nephews, James, Brady, and Jay Parker.

Tim was born and raised and lived his entire life in Richmond. He was a permanent fixture in the neighbourhood. He was always quick with a joke and a smile. He was a "leader of men " in his own mind, as his Gym buddies would often tease. He was loved and respected by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He loved to garden and took pride in his yard. He was along with time member at his local Gym and maintained great friendships even after he was no longer able to attend.

The family would like to say a special thank you to his wonderful neighbours and dear friends: Eyal, Mandy, Reiner, Thomaz, and Manos for all their love, support and dedication to Tim in his final months.

At Tim’s request, there will be no memorial. A small family service will be held in the future.

TODAY' S PUZZLE A NSWERS

A26 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

REMEMBRANCES

HOME SERVICES

OBITUARIES

GUTTERS

CORBETT, Belle (Tiny) September 22, 1933 − December 13, 2020 With great sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mom, Belle (Tiny) Corbett on December 13, 2020. Mom leaves her two daughters, Linda and Sheila; her grandchildren, Crystal and Jace (and their family), Ryan and Danielle; her sisters, Arlene and Les (and their family); friends, co−workers, and all of the extended family.

With a gentle soul and a strong mind for academics and administration, following graduation, Tiny declined a scholarship to University to begin a lifetime career with the TD Bank, her later years working in the TD Human Resources Department at the Pacific Center Tower and the TD Data Center until her retirement. She raised her two daughters mostly as a single−parent, in a very loving home and was devoted to her daughters, providing many joys and adventures that they will always remember as the basis for the very happy childhood they both shared.

Tiny moved from her many years in Richmond to the Sunshine Coast to make her new home at Christenson Village Assisted Living where she peacefully took her last breaths in her lovely lamp− lit room with the Christmas spirit all around her ~ So beautiful for her.

Due to current Covid−19 restrictions, there will be no service at this time ~ memorial keepsakes will be shared with immediate family during the week prior to Christmas.

Our sincere thanks to all the Caregivers at Christenson Village for the TLC extended to our mom over the past few years. Also, our thanks to the Paramedics and to the Sechelt Hospital Nurses for their exceptional caring attention on mom’s final night.

With much Love and Forever Remembering, we send you to Rest Peacefully, Our Beautiful Mom

MCCARTER, Patrick Joseph February 23, 1931 − November 7, 2020 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Patrick Joseph McCarter, at 89 years of age. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Diana June McCarter, in 2015. He will be deeply missed by his entire family; children, Philip McCarter (Beverly) and Lynne Whitaker (Ben); and grandchildren, Shannon McCarter, Ian McCarter, and Grant Whitaker. He was predeceased by his grandson Stratton Whitaker in 2013. He will also be missed by his extended family in the UK. Patrick will always be remembered for his loving smile and a keen sense of humour. He was a thoughtful, kind and caring man who loved his family very much. We will miss his great stories and words of wisdom. We cherish the memories that he made with each one of us along the way. Not a day will pass when Dad will not be missed.

Patrick was born in Croxley Green, UK, where he met his loving wife, Diana. Patrick and his family travelled extensively due to his work as a civil engineer. They lived in India, Hong Kong and Australia before emigrating to Canada and settling in Richmond in 1967.

Dad thoroughly enjoyed his final six months at the Maples Residence in Steveston. He loved the view overlooking the Fraser River and enjoyed taking advantage of the walking trails nearby. We would like to thank the staff at the Maples for welcoming him so warmly. The family is also grateful to all the doctors and nurses at Richmond General Hospital who tended to Dad’s needs during his final two weeks. We would also like to thank all those that delivered flowers or cards to us in his memory.

PETS

BUSINESS SERVICES BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

MURDOCH, Evelyn Mary (nee Wright) August 30, 1926 - December 19, 2020 Ev was loved by her husband Bill (who passed away last year), and 3 daughters Joan MurdochBieber (Dave), Kathy Morales (Jesse), Barb Henderson (Deane), Filipina daughter Sonia Alejandro (Noel), 9 grand- children and 16 great grandchildren with 2 more on the way. She is survived by her dear younger sister Renie.

Ev grew up in the loving Wright family on their dairy farm in Steveston, BC. She met her beloved Bill as a young teacher in Pender Harbour. Over her lifetime she was a passionate volunteer for the IODE, MS Society, Thyroid Foundation, Brighouse United Church, University Women’s Club and Girl Guides. She treasured time with family, hosted all her grandchildren at age ten for fabulous birthday trips and many special reunions. She kept diligent photo diaries of family celebrations, reunions and travel. Ev supported Bill’s adventurous career in the fishing industry in Nova Scotia, India, the Philippines and back to BC. While in India she taught macrame and helped start “Evelyn’s Handicrafts” which supported local entrepreneurs.

She enjoyed sewing (active member of Textile Arts Guild of Richmond), playing bridge, baking, creating dolls and quilts. She valued education and completed her Bachelor of Education at Mt. St. Vincent University in 1975, while raising her three girls.

Special thanks to the wonderful, caring staff at Shuswap Lodge where Ev spent her last few years, Dr. Darren Lorenz as well as the doctors and nurses at Shuswap Lake Hospital. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the MS Society or the Shuswap Lake Hospital Foundation.

For condolences please visit https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/vern on-bc/evelyn-murdoch-9958939 www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries

COMMUNITY

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ATTENTION

Denturist Intern REQUIRING PATIENTS with the following for new and existing conditions: • Dental Plates • Full Dentures • Dentures over Implants • Partial Dentures • Relines & Repairs We are offering quality removable denture work at intern pricing. All work high quality materials, overseen by Licensed Denturist.

These Dentures are not Free of Charge.

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To see if you qualify as a candidate for our Intern Denturist please call our office.

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VEHICLE REMOVAL CASH FOR ALL! Serving Delta & area since 1986.

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REAL ESTATE INDUSTRIAL/ COMMERCIAL INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008.

Built with concrete posts.

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DRYWALL

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

HOME SERVICES PATIOS

ROOFING

A27

May your days be merry and bright this Christmas!

Join us Dec 31 for a New Years Zoom party

.

Aluminum & Glass Patio Covers, Sunrooms & Railings

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RUBBISH REMOVAL

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and I’m a Nice Guy!

ACROSS 1. Crow species 4. Partner to flow 7. Male offspring 8. Sedate 10. Orange beverage 12. Pair of small hand drums 13. 12th month of Jewish civil year 14. Former Pirates star Jason 16. Computer company 17. Made angry 19. Beverage container

20. Charlize Theron film “__ Flux” 21. Localities 25. Consume 26. Don’t know when yet 27. Bed style 29. Make a low, continuous sound 30. Wrath 31. Pollinates flowers 32.Association 39. Prejudice 41. Unhealthy

42. Hasidic religious leader 43. Distinctive philosophy 44. Short-term memory 45. In a good way 46. Emperors of Ethiopia 48. Imaginary line 49. Of barium 50. One’s sense of self-esteem 51. Man who behaves dishonorably 52. Monetary unit

18. A ballplayer who only hits 19. Once vital TV part 20. Sixth month of Jewish civil year 22. Advantage 23. Type of tree 24. Luke’s mentor __-Wan 27. Life stories 28. Vase 29. Tiny 31. Package (abbr.)

32. A photog’s tool

33. Wood 34. One of the six noble gases (abbr.)

35. Pueblo people of New Mexico 36. Wild goats 37. A way to comply 38. Horatio __, British admiral 39. Actress Leslie 40. Sir __ Newton 44. Pouch 47. Have already done

DOWN 1. Rear of (nautical) 2. He minds the net 3. Ring-shaped objects 4. When you hope to get there 5. Young children 6. Beloved hobbit 8. Pigpen 9. Wish harm upon 11. Quick=eyed (Scottish) 14. Scrooge’s phrase “__ Humbug” 15. One more

A28 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

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