Richmond News March 2 2023

OPINION

Colour blindness not an excuse for politicians

For a politician who served only one term, he’s gotten a remarkable amount of media coverage

In fact, Kenny Chiu, former MP for Richmond-Steveston, has probably been featured more in the national press since he was ousted from the House of Commons than when he was sitting

The reason, of course, has to do with why he was ousted

The Globe and Mail recently reported that leaked Canadian Security Intelligence Services (CSIS) documents reveal that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) was intent on influencing the last federal election and used various tactics to discredit certain candidates who were critical of the regime and promote those they considered “friendly ”

Chiu fell firmly in the critical camp

As a member of the Conservative Party,

Chui voted to declare the treatment of the Uyghur people genocide and boycott the Beijing Winter Olympics but Chiu went further than that He also introduced a private members bill which sought to create a Foreign Influence Registry Act, which would require individuals acting on behalf of a foreign government to declare resources and activities regarding a public office holders and that registry would be made public

Chiu, it appears, anticipated exactly what the CSIS documents claim that there’s a well-heeled, carefully orchestrated system that funnels resources from the Chinese government through various individuals and agencies into Canadian politics

Because of that bill, Chiu argued (and CSIS appears to have agreed) he became a particular target in the 2021 federal election Of course, none of this is new Even before the ballots were counted, Chiu was calling foul and accusing actors working on behalf of the CCP of creating a smear campaign on Chinese social media

Chiu wasn’t the only one who noticed

something strange was going on in the Richmond ridings where both Conservative seats flipped Liberal, despite the fact the vast majority of seats across the country stayed the same

This was all reported at the time, but without the hard documents, the story only went so far Now, it has hit the proverbial fan and people are calling for an inquiry And I’m one of them, because we should remember that none of this has been proven in court, or at an inquiry Without that, we ’ re left with a vague (or not so vague) sense of unease

But it’s not just an inquiry we should think about Racism is also rearing its head

Some politicians who are thought to have benefited from the interference say the accusations will place the entire Chinese-Canadian community under public suspicion and make them targets for discrimination

There may be some truth to that AntiAsian racism is a real thing, and some may paint a whole ethnic group with the same brush However, calling racism can also be an attempt to stifle legitimate criticism

In a press release sent out Tuesday morning, Victor Ho, former editor of the Sing Tao, states, “the CCP’s framing of wellfounded scrutiny of the regime as racism is a tactic to stop the Western media “

Just as racism is real, so is fear-mongering and obfuscation

The other point this story highlights is the fact no political entity is too small Some thought it a bit ridiculous to think little ol’ Richmond would be of interest to the big ol’ Chinese government, but an Australian intelligence expert said on CBC radio recently municipal politics is not immune We’ve done a number of stories about Iocal politicians attending CCP-supported events. I appreciate that it can be a tricky balance A local politician wants to connect with all pockets of the community and attending a certain event or wearing a particular T-shirt doesn’t necessarily make you a stooge of any particular regime at least it didn’t Now, I’m not so sure Politicians need to know how to follow the money because there’s no excuse for not knowing whose colours they’re wearing

#170-2840 Olafsen Ave Richmond, V6X 2R3 604.270.8031

Advertising Sales: 604.249.3336

advertising@richmond-news.com

Delivery: 604.249.3132

distribution@richmond-news.com

Classified: 604.630.3300, 604.444.3056 or email classified@van.net

PUBLISHER/ADVERTISING DIRECTOR (ACTING)

Alvin Chow achow@glaciermedia.ca 604.249.3336

EDITOR Eve Edmonds editor@richmond-news.com 604.249.3343

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Kristene Murray kmurray@glaciermedia.ca 604.249.3353

LOOKING FOR A CAREER IN EDUCATION? Full Time REAP 2023 will start in July 2023 and end in November 2023.

Richmond Continuing Education”

Richmond Education Assistant Program (REAP) is rigorous, intense and rewarding. It is designed by the Richmond School District to prepare adults who have the passion to work with Children with Disabilities and Diverse Abilities as an Education Assistant.

604 668 6123

“Experience

Keep election integrity LETTERS

Dear Editor,

After Richmond’s two ridings were unexpectedly flipped by the Liberal party in the 2021 election, many attributed it to the political views of Richmondites evolving

Unfortunately, a recent Globe and Mail article on recently declassified CSIS documents reveals the true reason may be much more sinister

It is now known from the latest CSIS reports that China employed an aggressive strategy to disrupt Canada’s democracy in the 2021 federal election, and that Richmond candidates were a large target

Their efforts included working to ensure that the Liberal party was reelected, influencing mainland Chinese-Canadian voters against the Conservative Party, and targeting candidates that were deemed unfriendly to Beijing such as Richmond’s own Kenny Chiu

Mr Chiu was targeted after speak-

ing out about China’s violent crackdown in Hong Kong and his 2021 private member’s bill aiming to establish a registry of foreign agents in an attempt to combat foreign interference

Chiu was unseated in 2021 by Parm Bains, and is now widely believed to be the victim of a Beijing-led online disinformation campaign

The CSIS documents reveal Chinese diplomats and, some members of the Chinese-language media, were told to push the unsubstantiated claim that the Conservative Party was too critical of China and that, if elected, it would follow Trump’s lead and ban Chinese students from certain universities

As a community, we need to take seriously the threats of foreign interference in our elections

While changes at the political level are necessary, steps taken at the community level are equally important.

Rather than attacking those who

may have been inadvertent beneficiaries of misinformation campaigns, we must come together to ensure accurate information is heard louder Rather than allowing falsities divide our community, we must open up to dialogue, ensuring people come to their own beliefs, rather than those of foreign governments.

I believe we Canadians have what it takes to implement the municipal, provincial, federal and legal changes required to protect our elections from interference, but all changes begin at the community level

Together, let’s ensure our elections retain their integrity for generations to come

N B All claims in this letter were taken directly from the Globe and Mail article, which in turn were taken from CSIS reports

Rob Perry RICHMOND

Civility index mirrors CCP

Dear Editor,

Re: “Empathy ranking at odds with Pink Shirt,” Editor’s column, Feb. 23.

I just read your op-ed. Thank you for again writing about a worthwhile topic in an objective voice.

I am sure you are aware that Mr Chun’s views on the civility index mirror those of the CCP of China.

However, the civility index in China is a tracking tool of an authoritarian state on its citizens and not a dogood undertaking.

There has been much

in the media of late about the CCP’s influence in Canadian politics, as reported by CSIS, including the impact said influence had on our local election regarding the Honourable Mr Kenny Chiu. I am pro free speech, especially that of the media, including Mr Chun’s contributions. But my mixed feelings are a result of my understanding of the influence of the CCP of China in Canadian society, including the deliberate use of Canadian media.

Andy Wilson RICHMOND

Bike lane budget jumps $2.5 million

But when the city asked for bids, they all came in significantly over budget.

the money largely from the roads budget and some from the capital reserve fund.

staff, are to reduce the scope of the project or cancel it all together

A bike lane on Steveston Highway could cost $2.5 million more than first anticipated with a total price tag of $11.5 million.

The original budget for the three-metrewide separated “multi-use pathway” on the south side of Steveston Highway from No. 2 Road to Shell Road which is scheduled to be built this year was about $9 million.

In a report going to city council, staff cited Inflation, a volatile construction industry and supply chain issues as some of the reasons for the increase in costs.

TransLink has promised $5 million for the project, and the province is chipping in $500,000.

If the project is cancelled which city staff isn’t recommending city council do they will lose the funding.

City staff is recommending council approve the additional $2.5 million, taking

Originally, city council had approved $3.5 million of city funds largely developer fees for the project.

If the higher budget is approved, it will mean about $6 million will come from city coffers.

Given the anticipated higher cost to build the bike lane, the city has asked TransLink whether there would be additional funds for this project, but they have said there aren’t.

Other options, not recommended by

The bike lane was approved by city council in three phases this budget just deals with the first two phases.

The third phase, from Railway to No. 2 Road is budgeted at $5.7 million and the report from staff says it should not come over budget.

This is a separate project that will be done later

The increased bike lane budget is on the agenda for next Monday’s committee meeting.

Company ordered to halt water discharge

Maria Rantanen

A Mitchell Island metal and used car recycling company requested the right to continue flushing contaminated water into the Fraser River, while it appeals an earlier order to stop the practice. The request was denied.

The Environmental Appeal Board, a provincial body that hears appeals of such orders, said it is in the public interest to keep the order for Richmond Steel Recycling (RSR) in place to protect the environment.

While pollution has been reduced at the recycling facility since the pollutants were first noticed in 2019, contaminant levels still exceed provincial guidelines, the board concluded.

In fact, PCB levels were 10 to 100 times the allowable amounts on two days when the water from an on-site treatment plant was tested, the panel notes in its decision.

The original order stemmed from a heavy rainstorm in December 2019.

On that day, water was seen bypassing an oil/water separator, grit chamber and bioswale, and

discharging directly into the river Environment Canada took water samples and found levels of aluminum, copper, zinc and PCBs exceeded the B.C. Water Quality Guidelines.

In August 2021, the companywas ordered to identify contaminants and develop a waste plan

The company hired an environmental consultant, and in February 2022 a temporary water treatment plant was installed at the facility However, contaminants were still being found in the discharged water; in April, a second order was issued, demanding the com-

City of Richmond Community Wayfinding Strategy

Drop by one of the pop-up events taking place:

Sunday, February 26 | 11 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Adjacent to the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, Steveston Village

Saturday, March 11 | 1:00–4:00 p.m.

Lansdowne Centre adjacent to the Lansdowne Canada Line Station

There will be a Mandarin and Cantonese interpreter at the in-person pop-up events

pany stop discharging water into the river

The company appealed this second order at the end of May, and then in mid-June asked for a stay of the order until the appeal was heard.

The panel acknowledged the company’s operations are “in the public interest” in that it recycles end-of-life products, serving an “important environmental purpose.”

But the director argued the “ongoing effluent discharge poses unquantifiable risks to the environment, and there is the potential for irreparable harm to

the environment if the Order is stayed.”

In the end, it concluded it was in the public interest to uphold the order to protect the environment from pollutants coming from the facility

The company has two appeal hearings coming up.

In late May, the pollution abatement order, that led to the order to stop discharging water into the river, will be heard.

The other is an appeal of a denial to discharge stormwater into the environment.

This will be completed by April 17.

Maria Rantanen

IHIT looks into death of woman, teen

Valerie Leung

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is investigating the death of two people inside a Richmond home.

Richmond RCMP responded to a report of a deceased female inside a Terra Nova home in the 6500 block of Barnard Drive, near Westminster Highway and No. 1 Road, on Sunday, Feb 20.

The bodies of a 43-year-old woman and a 14-year-old girl, who are related, were found inside the home, according to an IHIT media statement.

IHIT was called in and has since taken over the investigation with the assistance of Richmond

RCMP, RCMP forensics and the BC Coroners Service.

Homicide investigators believe this is an “isolated incident” and no other suspects are involved at this time.

The victims are not being identified as family members are being notified.

“The effects of this tragedy are being felt by the entire community,” said Sgt. Timothy Pierotti of IHIT.

“Anyone in need of assistance is encouraged to call the Richmond RCMP’s Victim Services.”

There are no public safety concerns at this time, said IHIT

In the meantime, anyone with information regarding the investigation can contact IHIT at 1-877-551-4448 or email ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Cash bundle found

Did you lose a “significant” amount of cash on the weekend near a Richmond shopping mall? If you did, you may be in luck, as someone handed it into Richmond RCMP.

The money, according to police, was found near the Yaohan Centre parking lot, at No 3 and Cambie roads, on Sunday, Feb. 19.

Police suspect it may have fallen out of someone ’ s pocket and, if you think it may be yours, you are asked to call Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212, quoting file number 2023-5578

However, be prepared to describe the amount and denominations of the cash in question

Alan Campbell/Richmond News

Safer drug services planned in Richmond

Vancouver Coastal Health is working on offering more safe drug consumption services in Richmond

Details are still be worked out, but Richmond medical health officer Meena Dawar told the News, an “episodic overdose prevention service” is in the works

As for having a standalone safe-injection site in Richmond, there isn’t the density to justify it, Dawar said, adding it should be within walking distance of an identified group of drug users

“In Richmond, there’s not a neighbourhood or area where we could provide such service,” Dawar said When the new service is set up, VCH will reach out

to people who use drugs to let them know it’s available Paramedics responded to 356 overdoses or toxic drug poisonings in Richmond in 2022 Meanwhile, 28 people died of drug toxicity

“Clearly, we need to replace toxic drugs with safe drugs,” Dawar said, adding “ so when (drug users are) ready, we can help them ”

Recovery is a journey, she added, noting “It’s okay if you ’ re using, just use safely The message is please don’t use alone ”

Maria Rantanen/ Richmond News

Dad fails to recoup day camp fees, after bullying claims

ments for others are asked to take one rest day away from the program

A dad’s claim that bullying at a Richmond day camp created an “unsafe environment” for his child was rejected by the Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT)

WC, whose young child attended a day camp for six to 10-year-olds in 2022, requested the city reimburse him for five weeks of day camp fees, totalling $1,008 WC’s name was anonymized in the CRT resolution to protect his child’s identity

He alleged the City of Richmond breached a contract with him by failing to ask his child’s alleged bullies to take time off from day camp and said the staff was negligent in preventing the bullying

The City of Richmond denied that it had a contract with WC, claiming the day camp was operated by the Richmond City Centre Community Association (CCCA), an “independent contractor” with its own staff that used the city’s registration system

This argument was rejected by CRT adjudicator Megan Stewart, who decided “ an objective, reasonable bystander would have concluded WC and the City intended to contract” for day camp services advertised on the city’s website

Stewart was persuaded by evidence such as the booking being made on the city’s website, and communications including receipts and the registration confirmation were provided through the city and did

not mention CCCA

“Though the day camp welcome letter was on CCCA letterhead, it referenced the City and “Community Associations” being proud of the quality programming ‘ we are able to offer,’” Stewart wrote

No evidence of ‘sustained bullying campaign’ against

child

According to WC, his child had apparently tried to report a list of incidents with other children including name-calling, having their arts and crafts taken away, having punches thrown toward their face and being hit and pushed

Staff allegedly “did not intervene and did not require the children against whom the allegations were raised to take a ‘rest day,’” Stewart wrote

Under the city’s code of conduct for day camps, participants whose behaviour results in unsafe environ-

WC added that his child had to attend counselling sessions to “deal with anxiety and trust issues following their day camp experience,” but did not provide any evidence

However, notes from day camp leaders indicated that staff had spoken to children about their behaviours and minimized “negative interaction” between the children such as by putting them on the same teams for gym games

One camp leader said WC’s child “generally seemed happy at day camp ”

Stewart concluded there was “ no evidence of a sustained bullying campaign against” WC’s child and most incidents “ appear to have been unrelated, oneoff occurrences ” She added that staff responded proportionately to the incidents

There was also no evidence of any physical injuries or mental distress showing the child was “unwilling or unable to participate” in the day camp after the incidents

“I acknowledge it is upsetting for parents to hear from their child about negative interactions with other children,” Stewart wrote

“However, I cannot conclude the incidents described above objectively created an unsafe environment ” WC’s claim was dismissed and he will not be reimbursed for his CRT fees.

More YVR food service workers join union

More than 200 food service industry workers at Vancouver International Airport have voted to join a union.

The cooks, dishwashers, servers, cashiers and bartenders who work for SSP Canada at YVR voted last week to join UNITE Here Local 40.

The workers serve the travelling public at outlets such as Monks Bar and Grill, Dirty Apron, Sal y Limon, Banh Shop, Freshii and Thai Hang, among others SSP is one of several multinational operators contracted by the Vancouver Airport Authority to operate food service outlets inside the terminals

The new union members will join nearly 350 other food service workers at YVR already represented by the union.

According to the union, contracted airport food service workers are not covered by the YVR Living Wage announced in 2022, with many of them earning well below the Metro Vancouver living wage of $24 08 per hour

“We congratulate the 200 SSP workers who took the brave step to stand up and join our union so they can bargain for a better standard that all YVR airport workers deserve,” said Zailda

Chan, president of Local 40

The union also represents airline catering workers, who led a strike action at Gate Gourmet at Vancouver Airport in 2022 and won the biggest wage increases in years for those food service workers.

Following that victory, the majority of Gate Gourmet workers will be making close to $25/hour by this summer

I acknowledge it is upsetting for parents to hear from their child about negative interactions with other children.

MEGAN STEWART, CRT

Doctor gives woman laser treatment - on the wrong eye

Alan Campbell

COM

Normally, getting two for the price of one elicits a sense of satisfaction

But that’s not the case for Richmond woman Shirley Ng, who was due to receive laser treatment to relieve pressure on her right eye recently at the Eyecare Centre at Vancouver Hospital

Ng did get the prescribed treatment, but on the wrong eye It was only when she complained afterwards to the receptionist at the Eyecare Centre that the doctors

Q:

acknowledged the mistake and offered to treat the right eye

By that time, Ng said she had “lost all confidence” in the doctor to perform the procedure and refused any more treatment

“I was nervous (The doctor) turned off the lights and she put the cold gel lens on my left eye, ” Ng told the Richmond News.

“She started to examine my left eye and was doing something with that, but I have never been through this before, so I just assumed it was part of the process.

“After that, she said I did I very good job I said to her, ‘ you have done the laser on my right eye, yes?’ She said yes But every-

Why do we need good posture?

Chronically inefficient posture places ongoing strain on back and neck muscles Poor posture can interfere with normal functioning of your heart and lungs Slouching can create muscle imbalances and restriction in your spine

The welcome news is that achieving good posture is not that difficult Work is required, of course, as well as consistent attention

The main consideration here is how to get your spine straight without tightening all your muscles and holding your breath

Picture in your mind a string dangling from the sky and attaching it to your sternum - your breastbone You dangle from the string like a puppet As a result, your chest lifts up easily and your spine straightens naturally and smoothly

Another piece to the posture puzzle is to allow your shoulder girdles to rest on your rib cage You don’t have to press your shoulders down to do this - just don’t hold them up And of course, maintaining good spinal alignment with regular chiropractic checkups keeps up a healthy moving spine Good posture is good health For your postural assessment, contact us to set up an appointment

Minoru Chiropractic

www minoruchiropractic com

Q: What is the difference between having an immediate denture and a denture that is made after I have extractions?

A: Immediate dentures are always best, unless there is so much mobility in your teeth that taking an impression may cause an accidental extraction when the impression is removed. The immediate denture will act as a band aid as well as to help reshape the bone to a kinder more rounded form, rather than leaving the sharp edges that are formed by the circumference of the extraction socket. Follow up must be done by your dental practitioner in order to keep up with the changing shape as the bone and tissue heal. If you have extractions done and the denture is made after a period of couple months then the bone from the circumference of the socket has prematurely healed and is now standing up When a denture is placed on the tissues, the bone from underneath now stabs you from the inside out. There is one way that you can do the latter method Once your initial wound site has closed, then you must massage the bone together towards the center of gum. This will tell the body that the bone must reshape to a rounder shape If you have questions that you would like answered, please don’t hesitate to book a free consultation with my office, or you can write to us via our website to: bcdenturist.com

thing was on the left I thought they needed to do something with the left eye first ”

After the left eye treatment, Ng was asked to go outside and wait until the receptionist did the post-treatment, eye-pressure check

But when she told the receptionist she was there for treatment on her right eye, Ng was asked to go back to the same doctor.

“I was then told the treatment needed to be ‘redone ’ I was shocked The doctor never apologized ” added Ng

“She said I need to do the treatment again, this time for the right eye I was very mad I said I wasn’t letting her do it ”

Discover the Power of Planning

When she asked if there was any damage to her perfectly healthy left eye, Ng said she was told no, as it was just a “ gentle laser ”

Ng claims she was then handed a consent form to sign, after the treatment

“I refused to sign it, not a chance,” said Ng, who reported the matter straight away to the hospital’s patient care quality

Ng did eventually give permission for the treatment on her right eye, but only because of the aforementioned pressure.

A spokesperson for Vancouver Coastal Health refused to go into any detail about the complaint, citing privacy regulations

604-207-9050

#230-7480

Westminster Hwy Richmond, B C

604-279-9151

Q:What do you do when a death occurs away from home? Q: A:

It is important to know should a death occur away from home, it is wise to contact the funeral director in your community The funeral director will act on your behalf and help coordinate all the details required in order to have the deceased transferred back to their hometown. If you are in another country where there may be language or cultural barriers, it is recommended that if logistically possible, you contact the nearest Canadian Consulate Ask about our Journey Home Travel Insurance!

A:

• Direct Cremations, Traditional Funeral, Celebration of Life & Memorial Services • Serving all faiths and cultures • Chapels on site

Call us today and speak with one of our dedicated professionals Enquire about your range of options available 2023 is the time to get your final affairs in order!

Q: A:

I have a bunch of silverware I am hoping to sell you. How can I tell if they are real silver or just plated?

Yes, we do buy sterling silverware but not plated.

Almost all North American real silverware is stamped “Sterling”. This means that they are made from 92.5% silver Silver plate is usually copper plated with silver

You can eliminate the following American brands, Oneida, Community and Rogers, all these three companies only made silver plate.

Also to eliminate are pieces marked “EPNS”. That stands for Electroplated Nickel Silver, these are not silver

English silver is marked differently They use “Hallmarks” that are stamped into the pieces.

We look for a “Lion” mark stamped into the piece. Usually, the Lion is facing left but sometimes it is standing upright.

Many European countries use 800 or 835 markings which mean they are 80% or 83.5% silver

If there is only two numbers such as 80 or 90 that means they are plated.

An average sterling set of silverware is worth between $1,000 to $1,500 for us to purchase.

Western Coin & Stamp

604-273-3748

Richmond Funeral Home 8420 Cambie Road Richmond, BC V6X 1K1

Fax: 604-273-1697

EMacPherson@arbormemorial com www richmond-funeral ca

Dr. Carol Reddin

Ukrainian ‘finger’ carving nets dollars for the soldiers fighting the Russians

Alan

A Richmond resident and former native of Ukraine has auctioned off a rather unique and slightly humorous wood carving

Sergey Khomenko, who used to live in the now war-torn Kyiv, spends his spare time in his adopted land carving pieces of wood into interesting designs

Khomenko’s latest creation took about eight days, on and off, and is based on a painting which was inspired by an iconic image from the early stages of the Russian invasion of his homeland last year

The 20-inch x 14-inch x one-inch acaciawood carving shows a Ukrainian soldier “flipping the bird” at a Russian warship off the coast an image which actually became a postage stamp in Ukraine

As well as soliciting bids online, Khomenko showed it off on Sunday at a rally

in Vancouver, to mark the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion.

It was there that a fellow Ukrainian bought the carving for $430, which will now go to soldier friends of Khomenko fighting the war in his homeland.

Fatal crash accused to go before judge

A man charged with a fatal 2021 crash at UBC that caused the death of two students will be tried by a supreme court judge alone and no jury

Two 18-year-old UBC students, Evan Smith and Emily Selwood, were struck and killed by a vehicle while walking on a sidewalk near Northwest Marine Drive on Sept 26, 2021

“I personally know people who are fighting over there and I was talking to people raising money here, so I wanted to do something to help,” Khomenko told the Richmond News

“I know these soldiers, so I know the money is going to get to the right places I’m told they are purchasing drones and first aid kits All the money will go directly to the soldiers in Ukraine ”

Khomenko is now planning to carve out a chess board with military emblems to raise more money for the war effort

Tim Carl Robert Goerner was charged in September 2022 and faces four counts of impaired driving causing death and two related to dangerous driving

Goerner chose his trial type through his lawyer last week. He was not present at Richmond Provincial Court for the appearance

His next appearance will be at his preliminary inquiry, which is scheduled to take place from Oct 3 to 17, 2023

Vikki Hui/Richmond News

Sergey Khomenko (left) with the fellow Ukrainian who bought his carving for $430

Above, far right, Khomenko’s carving of the iconic image

Kajaks mourn loss of longtime coach

Alan Campbell

Richmond’s athletics community is in mourning this week after the sad passing of one of its pillars, Kim Young.

Young who has been with Richmond’s Kajaks Track and Field Club since 1965 was the co-founder of the much-loved BC elementary track and field school championships in 1968.

He then went on to become Team Canada Coach at the 1979 and 1982 Pan Pacific Games.

Young coached hundreds of young, aspiring ath-

Kim Young was a coach at the Richmond Kajaks since the 1960s

letes, many of whom were Olympians. He was inducted into the B.C. Hall of Fame as a coach in 2008.

Athletics Canada announced Young’s death on its website, saying that it was “deeply saddened to hear about the passing” of the “lifelong athletics supporter.”

Fellow hall of famer and Olympian, Doug Clement, said that Young “made a lifelong endeavour to improve the opportunities for Canadian youth through his devotion to his calling in education as a teacher, administrator and coach.

“The track and field movement in Canada has lost an individual whose lifelong contribution cannot be matched.”

Young also served as director of Athletics Canada, president of BC Athletics, and chair of the prestigious international meet, the Harry Jerome Classic

Cheer team makes podium in Las Vegas

A Richmond cheerleading team has just returned from the World School Cheerleading Championships in Orlando, where they reached two podiums.

The Cambie Cheer team (above) won the bronze medal in its division at the event held at ESPN in Orlando, Fla. The team was also runner-up for the Nations Cup, resulting from them getting the second highest score out of all Canadian teams at the championships.

—Alan Campbell/Richmond News

COMMUNITY

Five books challenged at library

Vikki Hui VHUI@RICHMOND-NEWS COM

A book was removed from Richmond Public Library (RPL) in 2022 for containing misinformation about COVID-19, while three children’s books about gender and sexuality and a cookbook were allowed to stay on the shelves

The Truth about COVID-19 by Joseph Mercola and Ronnie Cummins was the first book to be removed from RPL since 2015, according to a report from the library

Wendy Jang, coordinator of collections and customer service delivery, said the book was removed because it contained “ numerous misleading, discredited statements in the footnotes” and cited “questionable sources ”

It also prescribed treatments deemed dangerous by medical professionals and mixed sensible health advice with pseudoscientific advice One of the authors, Mercola, had been warned by the American Food and Drug Administration to stop offering Vitamin D as a treatment or prevention option for COVID-19

“McGill University’s Office for Science and Society website described the book as

‘monumentally wrong, ’” said Jang

She said she’s not sure how the book ended up on RPL shelves in the first place, but she suspects its popularity at the time might have something to do with it

The three children’s books, which RPL decided to retain in its collection, are Tabitha and Magoo Dress Up Too written by Michelle Tea and illustrated by Elvis Van der Dos; It’s Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, Gender and Sexual Health by Robie Harris and Michael Emberley; and Sex is a Funny Word by Cory Silverberger and Fiona Smyth

A customer complained Tabitha and Magoo “promoted pedophilia (and) pushed children to break society’s rules without good reason. ” They also claimed drag queens were not “considered reputable leaders in society ” The library pushed back saying it “offers a positive affirmation of gender expression and features a drag queen storytime” and RPL is dedicated to ensuring a balanced offering

“If (parents) do not believe something is appropriate they can select something else (that’s) right for them,” said Jang

It’s Perfectly Normal and Sex is a Funny Word were both reported to have “ sexually explicit material” and supposedly con-

tained child pornography

“The final decision was to keep the two books because they provided age-appropriate information on sexuality for children,” Jang explained “These books have received accolades from book reviewers and doctors, and they do not contravene the Criminal Code of Canada ”

Politics was also a reason for such complaints, as Simply Happy Cooking by Steve and Kathy Doocy was reported for Steve Doocy’s appearance on the show Fox and Friends The customer argued the show “represented American conservative politi-

cal and cultural values which shouldn’t be ‘what the library stands for ’”

RPL kept the book as it only contained recipes and anecdotes and had no “political, cultural or ideological agenda ”

What happens when people get offended?

It is not often that complaints are made about RPL materials, Jang explained Between 1982 and 2022, the library received a total of 117 complaints

At RPL, such complaints are submitted as requests for consideration, which are reviewed by a team of three librarians and later by a manager A recommendation will then be made to the chief librarian, who will decide whether to keep the material, relocate it to a more appropriate collection, buy more materials with opposing viewpoints or remove the material

“It is not often that we take a book off the shelf,” said Jang

RPL staff guidelines indicate materials are only removed if they are inaccurate or outdated, or if they contravene RPL’s code of conduct, the Criminal Code or the Human Rights Act

Search

Lipont Gallery hosts women ’ s centre fundraiser

The Richmond Women’s Resource Centre (RWRC) is hosting its annual International Women’s Day celebration at the Lipont Gallery this weekend

RWRC is partnering with Lipont Gallery and local singer and songwriter Cherelle Jardine to fundraise for the centre as part of the celebration on March 4 at 2 p m

RWRC president Tammi Belfer said the event is “critically important” for Richmond as RWRC has been serving women since 1976 with help from the community Belfer said this year ’ s community support started with Lipont Place sponsoring its gallery to celebrate International Women’s Day by showcasing emerging artists

“The way in which the community is rallying to support its Women ’ s Centre along with women in the arts demonstrates to me that there is hope for all of us to emerge together in 2023,” she said

A performance by Jardine will kick off the event and a monthlong exhibit titled “THEIR VIEWS”

by female artists Alice Cao, Jia Liu, Jiabao Shen and Xin Wen Jardine said in a statement supporting the RWRC will help women reach their goals and dreams.

“It is so important that women support each other in these challenging times and beyond,” she said, adding it’s a “great honour” to perform and help raise money

for the RWRC. “This event asks that we all ‘explore and celebrate the unique perspectives women are carrying into this new, post pandemic era ’ This statement really hits home for me ”

Admission and parking for the event is free Valerie Leung/News

Wendy Jang shows books that have been banned and challenged around the world

Vikki Hui photo

MOVE-IN READY

#807 – 6833 Buswell Street

F-to-C windows, German 12mm wide-plank laminated wood floors & large tiles in bathrooms. Roof-top garden, multi-purpose function room, equipped gym. All these plus a huge elegant entrance foyer on a very quiet residential street.

1,156 sf 3-bdrm NE corner unit + 2 balconies totaling 833 sf. Unobstructed Mt Baker & Burnaby Mt views. King-sized master bdrm has walk-in closet. $1,196,800

#1207 – 6833 Buswell Street

954 sf 2-bdrm NE corner unit + 95 sf balcony Unobstructed Mt Baker & Burnaby Mt views. Kingsized master bdrm. $1,098,800

#715 – 6833 Buswell Street

579 sf 1-bdrm + 70 sf patio. W-facing looking right onto the 5th fl roof top garden view Open & spacious, king sized master bedroom Not an inch of wasted space!! $688,800 NEW PRICE!!!

Nice retail shop in West Broadway Corridor 749 sq.ft. with excellent exposure, air-conditioned, security system 9 feet height, 18' frontage, T-bar ceiling. Close to UBC & Vancouver Downtown. One assigned parking stall. Just renewed the lease for 5 years. Good tenant. Lease expiry January 31, 2028. Basic rent average $2,371.83 per month + property tax and strata fees. Annual net return 3.4%.

ABERDEEN SQUARE 478 SF OFFICE FOR LEASE/SALE

$438,000

6125-4000

NO. 3 ROAD

Top floor 12ʼ x 40ʼ (478 SF) office. F-to-C windows w/beautiful water & sunset views! Air-con. Shows like new Also FOR LEASE at $2,200 gross plus GST (3 78% NOI). At Canada Line skytrain Station. Zoned ZMU9 ZC27 (mix retail w/office units) allowing many usages.

1025-2633

SIMPSON ROAD

Bridgeport & Shell Area IL zoned

3454 WEST BROADWAY VANCOUVER

W BROADWAY 749 SF RETAIL $839,000

Welcome home to The Shore in Steveston, a boutique waterfront establishment offering luxury residential units, each with private gated garages, semi-private elevator access and serene river views. Modern artisanal styling blends natural refinement in two designer colour schemes offering subtle textures and rich materials to create an inviting interior Each unit plan has been deliberately arranged to connect with the magnificent light, harbour, greenway park, and river views. All homes enjoy spacious decks with serene water views of the Fraser River Call today! Offered

OPEN

Introducing Crofton Town-homes, a boutique new community of 3 & 4 bedroom townhomes located in the North Steveston neigh-bourhood of West Richmond. The 11 brand new Townhomes are designed in a classic brownstone style with modern farmhouse aesthetics featuring a combination of brick, and wood trim accents. Sleek kitchens offer islands with quartz countertops and durable materials. Developed by Citimark, one of Richmondʼs most prolific townhome builders. Come visit our sales centre today!

MINORU ESTATES #62-7400 Minoru Blvd

UNBEATABLE LOCATION - No Vehicle, No problem LOVELY Move-in ready END Unit, 2 level Townhouse, within walking distance to, Minoru Park, Library, Richmond Centre Mall, Skytrain/ Transit, Richmond High and Ferris Elementary Schools Main floor features, spacious and bright living and dining room, with custom millwork and modern electric fire, updated bright white kitchen with granite counters, and breakfast bar Upstairs offers, Master Bedroom with tons of storage, and good sized second bedroom, bright bathroom with tub/shower combo and laundry room with newer front loading washer and dryer Private West facing back yard with entertainment size patio, and PARKING at your front door Well managed complex and BONUS ! Low Maintenance Fees.

REMEMBRANCES

oBituarieS

BAKKEN, William Glen 1946 - 2023

The famly of Bl are saddened to share the news of hs sudden passing Bil grew up in Mont Nebo Saskatchewan and attended Hgh School in Shellbrook, Saskatchewan, where he met Mare Grendah and n 1968 they were married and moved to Keowna, BC, and ater to Richmond, BC

Bil is lovngly remembered by his wife, Marie, Sons

Trevor (Mchelle) and Trent (Nancy); Grandchidren

Taylor (Tanner), Bowen (Hannah), Colton (Bree), Jacob, Sage Father-in-Law George Grendahl

Sister-in-Law, Kathy Tngstad, Nieces, Nephews and Cousns

Bil is predeceased by his Parents, Peter and May Bakken, Brothers Bruce and Perry, and Mother-inLaw Audrey Grendahl

A Celebration of Life wil be hed at 1:00pm on March 4th, at South Delta Baptst Church, 1988 56 St, in Tsawwassen, BC

Donations in memory of Bil, may be made to the charity of your choce

Ful obtuary and condolences may be viewed at: https://www myalternatives ca/langey/obituares/ 2023-bakken-wllam-glen

SQUELCH, Corine

April 17, 1942 February 5, 2023

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our caring and selfless mother on February 5th, 2023, at the age of 80, after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Our hearts are filled with a ifetime of treasured memories. Love u 2 arrows Dean Squelch Jay/Lorraine Squelch (Alex, Sami) Debi/Darren Erickson (Cooper, Walker)

Celebration of Life will be on March 26, 2pm at Richmond Funeral Home, 8420 Cambie Road.

COMMUNITY

F/T

GARAGE SALES

GIANT

Saturday,

Be

Stud o

Advantages and benefits of being an Esthetics Denture Studio patient:

• Alex Hupka has 26 years of experience as a registered dental technician and 16 years experience as a registered denturist

• A Combined experience of 42 years in the dental field produces results of esthetic beauty with unparalleled accuracy in all our products

• Natural beauty esthetics and function, immaculate attention to detail

• We provide integrated treatment planning with your dentist or surgeon

• Implant supported and retained denture treatment planning and engineering

• Highest quality dental materials available with no compromise

• We have an in house laboratory for all your needs, to maintain product and quality control

• 5 year warranty against breakage during eating

• Free home care kit, including professional denture cleaner with new cosmetic and partial dentures for the lifetime of being our patient

Cosmetic Precision Denture System™

Premium quality Cosmetic Precision Dentures instill confidence and provide optimum function while eating, speaking and laughing. Sophisticated instrumentation records facial and anatomical information to recreate your natural smile and the youthful facial contours of your lips and cheeks.

Our premium quality teeth duplicate natural teeth. The contours of our premium teeth are designed to match your skeletal type with feminine and masculine characteristics to accentuate your appeal.

The Art and Advantages of Cosmetic Precision

Dentures:

Esthetics - created with natural nuances, so you can speak, smile and laugh with confidence.

Contours - Naturally sculpted tissue surfaces, make Cosmetic Precision Dentures almost indistinguishable from natural tissues.

Health - eat virtually any food efficiently, improve digestion. Strength and Fit - extremely dense materials provide a strong, secure, non irritating comfortable fit.

Biocompatibilty - dense equalized materials aid in the prevention of stain and odor buildup