Richmond News January 14 2015 by Richmond News

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

YOUR SOURCE RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

The Wildcat’s meow McMath’s upand-coming senior girls basketball team is already ranked seventh in the province.

Sales • Lease • Management Your Richmond Specialist www.interlinkrealty.ca email: info@interlinkrealty.ca Twitter: 604.271.3888 @therichmondnews Facebook: facebook.com/RichmondNews

Page 10

FUNDRAISING

HOSPITAL

Birth tourism rates smash earlier records One-in-10 born to non-residents Graeme Wood

Staff Reporter gwood@richmond-news.com

Elizabeth Marshall was among many who got a top class trim Sunday during the 4th annual Hennessey Hair ‘Do’ at Richmond Centre, which raised around $20,000 for Wigs for Kids B.C. For more on the event, see story on page 4 and richmond-news.com for an online photo gallery. Photo by Gord Goble/Special to the News

Workers support strike vote There’s no disruption of service yet, but Canada Line employees have voted overwhelmingly in favour of job action. The 150 workers, who belong to the BC Government Employees Union, voted 99 per cent in favour of job action Thursday. But they vow to resume bargaining with ProTrans BC and a mediator in an attempt to reach a negotiated settlement before taking any job action.

“The strength of the strike vote reflects the commitment of our members to negotiate a fair and reasonable collective agreement,” said Paul Finch, BCGEU treasurer, in a press release. “We are committed to meaningful negotiations with the help of a mediator later this month. “However, if mediation fails, we are Canada Line workers have prepared to increase pressure to negotiate been without a contract since an agreement.” December 2013. Photo submitted

Roast Leg of Lamb $

20.95

Tender ender boneless slices of lamb leg, savory lamb stuffing, Felicos lamb mint sauce, roast potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. Available Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Limited Quantities

OPEN NEW YEAR’S DAY 604.276.8282 • 8140 LESLIE ROAD

Open for Lunch Monday-Saturday

2014 was a record-smashing year for births by nonresidents at Richmond Hospital, which may very well be ground zero for birth tourism in the country. Over an eight-month period last year, just over one in ten babies delivered at the hospital were from nonresident mothers. From January to September 2014, 160 non-residents gave birth at the hospital, with data for the year-end yet to be tabulated. The hospital has set new benchmarks every year since 2010. From 2004 to 2010 the hospital helped birth, on average, 18 new Canadians per year from non-resident mothers. The rise in non-resident births coincides with an approximate doubling of total births in the same time period — in 2004 the hospital birthed 936 children while in 2013 it birthed 1921. In 2004, non-residents accounted for 1.5 per cent of births; in 2014, they accounted for 10.7 per cent (of 1484 total births up to September). This baby boom has drawn criticism from many hospital employees, according to one worker, who spoke to the Richmond News on behalf of others and on the condition of anonymity. “The (hospital workers) said that, though they treat these patients with the same compassion and care that they treat everyone with, it is frustrating for them because they know that B.C. residents, contributing to (the Medical Services Plan), are being deprived of beds because of the hospital’s/ obstetrician’s insistence that these ‘self-pay’ clients be

Rack of Lamb Chops & Lobster $

26.95

Two tender grilled rack of lamb chops, 4 oz lobster tail, drawn butter, roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Dinner Everyday from 4:30pm

see SELF-PAY CLIENTS › page 3

Sterling Silver Flat Iron Steak and Lobster

26.95

7oz Alberta Sterling Silver Butler Steak, 4oz lobster tail, drawn butter mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables

BE DANCLLY ING Jan

ua Reserv ry 17 e N ow

www.felicos.com • Full Menu On-Line

A2 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

bchonda.com

604-207-1888

www.richmondhonda.com

†Based on IHS Automotive: Polk Canadian New Retail Vehicle Registrations as of CYTD November 2014 for the Compact SUV/Compact Car/Subcompact Car segments as defined by Honda Canada Inc. *Limited time weekly lease offer and all other offers are from Honda Canada Finance Inc., on approved credit. #The weekly lease offer applies to a new 2015 CR-V LX 2WD model RM3H3FES/Civic DX model FB2E2FEX/Fit DX model GK5G3FE (“Specified Models”) for a 60-month period, for a total of 260 payments of $69.89/$41.91/$39.97 leased at 1.99%/0.99%/2.99% APR based on applying $400.00/$350.00/$1050.00 “lease dollars” (which are deducted from the negotiated selling price before taxes). ‡In order to achieve $0 down payment, dealer will cover the cost of tire/battery tax, air conditioning tax (where applicable), environmental fees and levies on the 2015 CR-V LX 2WD, Civic DX and Fit DX only on customer’s behalf. Down payment of $0.00, first weekly payment and $0 security deposit due at lease inception. Total lease obligation is $18,171.40/$10,896.60/$10,392.20. Taxes, license, insurance and registration are extra. 120,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.12/km for excess kilometres. **MSRP is $27,685/$17,245/$16,070 including freight and PDI of $1,695/$1,495/$1,495 based on new 2015 Specified Models described above. License, insurance, registration and taxes are extra and may be required at the time of purchase. £For more information about the 2015 Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year® award, visit http:// www.motortrend.com/oftheyear/suv/2015_honda_cr_v_is_the_motor_trend_suv_of_the_year/ ΩFor more information about the AJAC’s Best Small Car (Under $21,000) award, please visit: http://www.ajac.ca/web/ccoty/2015/comparison_category.asp?cat=176 */#/**Prices and/or payments shown do not include a PPSA lien registration fee of $30.31 and lien registering agent's fee of $5.25, which are both due at time of delivery and covered by the dealer on behalf of the customer on Specified Models only. Offers valid from January 3rd through February 2nd 2015 at participating Honda retailers. Dealer may sell/lease for less. Dealer trade may be necessary on certain vehicles. Offers valid only for British Columbia residents at BC Honda Dealers locations. Offers subject to change or cancellation without notice. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.bchonda.com or see your Honda retailer for full details.

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

NEWS

Send story ideas or photo submissions to Richmond News editor Eve Edmonds at editor@richmond-news.com

POLICE

Tip leads to drug lab Philip Raphael

Staff Reporter praphael@richmond-news.com

Richmond RCMP remain on the lookout for two suspects involved with an illegal drug lab discovered Sunday at 14291-block of Triangle Rd., behind the Richmond Ice Centre in east Richmond. Environmental crews were busy removing items from the property, a dilapidated farm house, Tuesday morning. RCMP officials said they received a tip Sunday from the property’s owner, who reported a suspected break and enter at the site that had been rented to tenants. Richmond RCMP’s spokesman, Acting Cpl. Dennis

Hwang, said the owner arrived at the site to see two unfamiliar individuals loading items onto a vehicle. The owner then immediately called police. On Tuesday morning the area immediately outside buildings on the property had several, large plastic drums and transparent collection bags. Hazmat caution tape cordoned off the entrance, as well as sections closer to the structures. Hwang said that while labs of this type can present dangers to the environment, that threat was not apparent. Hwang did not comfirm what type of drugs were suspected of being produced at the site. The RCMP were expected to disclose more. Look to our online edition for updates at Richmond-News.com.

Hazardous materials were found at dilapidated farm behind Richmond Ice Centre in East Richmond. Photo by Philip Raphael/Richmond News

Self-pay patients: Charged three times more ‹ from page 1 accommodated. During (one) shift that I was there, there were four self-pay clients in maternity beds (and the ward only has 15 beds),” said the worker. When the News asked Diane Bissenden, director of population and family health for Vancouver Coastal Heath, if the hospital is encouraging non-resident births for monetary purposes, she replied that the hospital does not deny patients based on resident status. The hospital asks non-residents to pay a $7,500 deposit for a regular birth and $15,000 for a C-section birth. VCH does not have readily available data for how much Richmond’s birth centre has made, but Bissenden notes: “If nonresident clients use the services at one of our hospitals, VCH has systems in place to collect compensation. We operate on a full cost-recovery basis and find the rate of remuneration from non-resident patients to be quite high.” Many in-patient services are two to three times the rate the hospital charges the government for insured expectant mothers. For instance, a newborn per diem after discharge is $3,400, whereas the hospital only fetches $1,100 for an insured patient. Maternity assessments cost non-residents $720, whereas MSP is billed just $288. Bissenden said the money goes to VCH, which may be a bone of contention with

So despite the profits the hospital makes, the maternity ward bears the workload, unsupported and uncompensated. - anonymous hospital staff

workers in the maternity ward. “So despite the profits the hospital makes, the maternity ward bears the workload, unsupported and uncompensated,” said the worker. Another issue raised is the fact the nonresident maternity patients spend one less day in the hospital, according to data (2.2 days for residents compared to 1.2 days for nonresidents, throughout VCH in 2013). “Patients would not be discharged if there were any risks to the mother’s health or that of their baby. All patients are discharged when they meet discharge criteria. The goal is to ensure that women are able to manage self-care for themselves and their newborns, including breastfeeding,” said Bissenden. Hospital patients can be discharged against medical advice but the hospital does not track that data specifically pertaining to births. Bissenden said when it comes to deciding which mother to move to another hospital in the case of limited beds, residents and

non-residents are treated equally. “In some cases, when demand exceeds our capacity, mothers may be diverted to another birth centre in the Lower Mainland – this is not a new process to any of the birth centres,” she said. Birth tourism happens for a myriad of reasons, such as preferred health service, circumventing national birth limitations (such as in China), and gaining citizenship for the child without having to live in Canada. Immigration critics and the Conservative federal government have expressed concerns over the latter. In 2013, now former immigration minister Jason Kenney, proposed to change “birth on soil” provisions in the Citizenship Act

by not granting citizenship to newborns of non-residents except in cases when the baby would become stateless. A report tabled by Kenney noted that Statistics Canada only reports about 500 out of 360,000 births in Canada annually are by non-residents. However, he argues that number is likely higher since the data is based on self-declaration.

LADIES’ SAMPLE SHOE SALE SIzES 6 & 7

Now $20 Compared to $180 Don’t wait long before they’re gone!

Armadillo Boutique 7912 Granville St. • 604-261-0840

Open 10:30-5:30 Tues-Sat Closed Sun & Mon

A4 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

Super Grocer & Pharmacy

Effective

WED

THR

FRI

January

COMMUNITY

Pals lose locks for charity

www.supergrocer.ca • 604-271-2722 OPEN DAILY - 8:00 am to 9:00 pm club price sunrype • pure

fresh • us grown

1l box

each

apple juice

club price catelli • assorted

fresh • medium pack

gluten free pasta

whole stewing chicken

340g box

2/500

2.18kg • per pound

fresh • medium pack

chicken boneless

skinless breast

359

emma

7.92kg • per pound

frozen • medium pack • 1-1.5lb

ocean perch

per 100g

fresh • large pack

pork leg

shank removed

canada aged AA • medium pack

359

aunt jemima • assorted

beef inside sandwich steaks

8.14kg • per pound

750ml pack swanson

green tea

extract 500mg

599

60 capsules pack

7.92kg • per pound

canada aged AA • medium pack

299

905g pack

syrup

nivea

lip balm

kiwifruit

each

325-340g pack

aunt jemima • assorted

pancake and waffle mix

fresh • italy grown

christie • date or

dairyland

creamo creamer

4.8g pack

fresh • us grown

small naval oranges

oikos • assorted

289

greek yogurt

fresh • us grown

gala apples

black currant nectar

fresh • mexico grown

green beans

egg noodles for stir fry

fresh • us grown

green bell peppers

organic quinoa

1.52kg • per pound

400g pack grande harvest • assorted

2.18kg • per pound

1l pack

six fortune

1.70kg • per pound

4x100g pack ribena

1.08kg • per pound

237ml pack

680ml pack

2.18kg • per pound

beef stewing meat cubes

4/500 3/100 2/79 329

fig newtons

129

passata tomatoes

Philip Raphael

large lemons

fresh • bc grown

yellow potatoes

1.04kg • per pound

907g pack

WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO LIMIT QUANTITIES • WHILE SUPPLIES LAST • SPECIAL OFFERS DOES NOT INCLUDE TOBACCO OR PRESCRIPTIONS PICTURES ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY • CLUB PRICES ARE VALID AT TIME OF PURCHASE • Large pack = 10kg+ Medium pack = 5kg+

Staff Reporter praphael@richmond-news.com

When Steveston’s Anoushka Sharma and three of her friends showed up at their schools Monday, each had a new look, and a new outlook about what it means to give of themselves. The quartet of elementary school-aged pals were among a throng of donors attending the 4th annual Wigs For Kids event at Hennessey Salon + Spa in Richmond Centre on Sunday. Anoushka, a Grade 4 student at Westwind elementary, along with her buddies — Tia Napora, Lola Shearer and Madison Sakai — came armed with not only a pledge of around $3,300 to help provide funding for children who need wigs due to illnesses, but a personal donation — their hair. Each took their turn to sit in the hair stylist’s chair and have eight to 12 inches

Among those donating their hair to the Wigs For Kids event were (from left) Tia Napora, Anoushka Sharma, Lola Shearer and Madison Sakai. Photo submitted of their locks snipped away to be fashioned into a hair piece. “Kids today, especially, need to be aware of how fortunate they are, and to help in any little way,” said Anoushka’s mom, Seema. “And this was one small way they can.” The idea to find and support a cancer fundraiser came from close to home — a friend of Seema’s was battling breast cancer. “So, they (the kids) had seen someone who had gone through treatments and lost

their hair,” she said. “When we found Wigs For Kids, we set up a team over the summer, and sent emails to friends and family and set up a website to raise money. People, some of whom we had never met, were really generous.” Overall, the event raised around $20,000 in cash donations for haircuts done on the day, plus 48 ponytails were cut, said Wigs For Kids chairperson Bev Friesen, adding it requires three pony tails to make one wig.

P: Eric Berger

FUN

FRIENDS

Short, sweet and sensational. A GREAT DEAL ON A QUICK GETAWAY January is a great time to come visit Whistler providing the kind of conditions that make Whistler Blackcomb the number one rated resort in North America. Averaging 2.1 meters (6.9 ft) of snow falling on 8,100 acres of powder-filled bowls, ancient glades and mile-long cruisers. In the valley you’ll find a pedestrian friendly village with over 200 retail shops, award

FREEDOM

winning restaurants, legendary nightlife, and an endless collection of activities. So come on up - packages with 3 nights lodging and 2 day of skiing from just $128* CAD per person, per night - we’re ready for you!

3 NIGHT 2 DAY SKI & STAY PACKAGE from

128*

per person per night

On arrivals between January 4 - 31, 2015

PRICE BEAT PROMISE

*Starting from package rate is per person per night based on 2 people in a studio, valid January 4 - 31, 2015. Package includes 3 nights accommodations and a 2 day lift ticket per person. Must be booked a minimum of 3 days in advance. Taxes and fees are extra. Restriction may apply. Other packages available for dates throughout the winter season, please inquire for details. Please check online or call for full details.

1.866.387.8492 whistlerblackcomb.com/getaway

Enjoy an Active Independent Lifestyle 4071 Chatham Street 604.277.4519

w w w. t h e m a p l e r e s i d e n c e s . c o m

Tours Daily

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

NEWS

BRIEFS

Officer denied acquittal in Taser incident Federal policy may effect community policing

The former Richmond RCMP officer who fired a Taser gun at Robert Dziekanski at YVR in 2007 has been denied an acquittal on perjury charges. Const. Kwesi Millington’s The City of Richmond is lawyer had applied for the concerned that a new federal dismissal of the charges policing policy, that requires against Millington in RCMP auxiliary officers to relation to an inquiry into be directly supervised at all Dziekanski’s death, according Const. Kwesi Millington times, will affect community to media reports. is accused of lying at an police services. Millington is accused inquiry into the death of “There is expected to be a Robert Dziekanski. File significant impact to crime of lying when he recalled what happened during the Photo prevention programs, many incident at the airport in which community events, and the Dziekanski was stunned several times with number of volunteer hours contributed overall,” wrote Steve Ilott, the coordinator a Taser and later died. of auxiliary constable program, in a report Millington is also accused of lying to the safety committee Tuesday. when he explained why what he told The change was precipitated by the Oct. investigators had happened was at odds 22 attacks in Ottawa on the National War with what appeared to have happen on a Memorial and Parliament Hill. video recording taken by a bystander. Auxiliary officers are volunteers and do Last year, a judge acquitted Const. Bill not carry firearms. Bentley, who was also involved in the In 2013, the constables provided 8,189 incident, after concluding the Crown had failed to prove he lied at the inquiry or that hours of service such as block watch, traffic assistance, speed watch, and crime the officers worked together on a story.

prevention canvassing. Under the new rules there are fewer opportunities for auxiliary constables, as regular members are not always available for such non-emergency services. When the changes came into effect last November, Richmond saw a 50 per cent dip in volunteer hours over the same month in 2013. In 2014, police attended 50 community events, 29 of which used auxiliary constables under indirect supervision.

City buying up industrial land on Triangle Road

The City of Richmond purchased a fiveacre industrial lot at 14940 Triangle Rd. for $5.5 million, last June. The lot is across the street from a proposed jet fuel facility, but Mayor Malcolm Brodie insists the purchase has nothing to do with that or any near-term plans to develop the area. “Who knows what the ultimate use of the property will be, but it certainly gives us flexibility …as to the exact use of the

land,” said Brodie. The purchase consolidates two other industrial plots owned by the city to create a 30-acre plot. The initial asking price online was $6.5 million. Richmond has about 750 acres of vacant industrial land according to a November 2013 survey, but it’s believed to lack diversity with most of it earmarked for port and airport activities. According to a 2002 city report, planners encouraged city council to narrow the scope of activities near Riverport, via zoning restrictions, until an area plan was formed to “ensure that it develops into a high-quality and desirable destination.” Brodie said, in his opinion, he doubted the area would be further developed if the 100-plus million litre jet fuel facility and pipeline is built. “For residential, there would be limitations given the existence of the jet fuel line,” which is currently facing a legal challenge. Riverport is home to an entertainment complex and two apartment complexes. It still does not fall under an existing area plan.

A6 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

OPINION

Send your story ideas or photo submissions to Richmond News editor Eve Edmonds at editor@richmond-news.com

EDITORIAL OPINION

House and home

hances are, you got your property assessment in the mail this week and you grimaced at what you saw. Whether it is up or down, people tend to fret about taxes or whether their investment is maturing. But there are a few things we urge people to remember before sitting down to compose an irate letter to the editor. The free market decides what your home is worth, not B.C. Assessment, which divines its numbers by looking at the sale prices of similar properties in the

neighbourhood over the previous year. There might be some tea leaves and chicken entrails in there too. And your local government sets the rate your home will be taxed at according to what will balance its budget and pay for capital needs. If taxes are higher than you’d like, our councils will welcome feedback on which services should be cut and which projects cancelled. One of the takeaways from this year’s numbers is that they’re high — pretty much everywhere. While homeowners

may grumble about their assessments, we also must acknowledge what this means for the younger generation that is priced out of the market entirely. Affordable home ownership has for decades been one of the cornerstones of the middle class and by extension, the economy as a whole. More than a place to hang your hat and raise a family, a home also represented equity and savings. With that out of reach of so many, we’re troubled about what the long-term impacts may be.

Does Canada need a new fighter jet? C

anada is in the market for a new fighter jet, but we’ve been kicking the tires for quite a while now. You might remember back in 2012, when the government was all hot and bothered over the F-35, the so-called “fifth generation” fighter that the U.S. has been pushing on all its allies for the past decade or so. It’s a stealth aircraft! It can take off from carriers! It can take off vertically! It can bomb your enemies in the morning and dogfight with them in the afternoon! I’m surprised the F-35 isn’t advertising between Saturday morning cartoons, with tow-headed kids playing with models of them, demonstrating their Light Up Action and Realistic Missile-Launching Sound! The government backed away from the F-35 as the price climbed toward the stratosphere, while at the same time evermore disturbing reports kept coming out about the plane’s suspected mechanical

issues. So now we don’t know PainfulTruth exactly what Canada’s nextgeneration fighter will be. Matthew Claxton Maybe it will be a version of the F-35, if the engineers can work out the bugs. Maybe it’ll be a competing similarbut-much-cheaper plane. Or maybe, if everyone shuffles their feet long enough, we won’t get a fighter aircraft. Because, really, Canada doesn’t need fighter jets. Oh, a few people just got red-faced and prepared to throw the paper across the room! Not too many, but in some circles, suggesting Canada doesn’t need fighter jets is as foolish as suggesting that the Avro Arrow wasn’t really that worthwhile, either. I should probably stop digging myself deeper and get to the point. The last time a Canadian pilot got into a dogfight was during the Korean war. Just about the last time anyone got into a dogfight worthy of the name was during the Gulf War, and those fights tended to be very,

very brief. of land by sending Drones are really cheap and in goon squads to Remember how Iraq had the fourth back up local thugs. getting better all the time, largest air force in we’re attacked and when they crash, there’s byIfRussia, the world? After it will no funeral. two days they take the form of had the largest a bunch of guys collection of rapidly in olive drab disassembled wandering into aircraft parts in the northern Alberta world. and attempting to annex the West Edmonton Canada last upgraded its fighter aircraft Mall for the Republic of Athabaska. decades ago. There is no question that we What do we need? I have no idea. need something. But what do we need? Drones are really cheap and getting better Who are we going to fight with our new all the time, and when they crash, there’s hypothetical jets? no funeral. What I do know is that war is The obvious answers that every armchair changing, technology is changing, and that military expert loves are Russia and China. every military technology ever invented Those both seem fairly unlikely. China is was used right up to the point where it busy with their plan in which they try to sell was utterly worthless. That’s why we saw everything ever made to every other country. cavalry officers with swords charge machine You don’t go to war with your customers, guns in World War I. and we’re all customers. We need to think about whether fighter Russia has military might, it’s more jets are modern day military horses. aggressive, and it’s more desperate. But Matthew Claxton is a reporter at the their recent MO has been snatching up bits Langley Advance

Our Commitment to You Published every Wednesday & Friday by the Richmond News, a member of the Glacier Media Group. 5731 No. 3 Road, Richmond, B.C. V6X 2C9 Phone: 604.270.8031 Fax: 604.270.2248 richmond-news.com

Peter Kvarnstrom Interim Publisher pkvarnstrom@glaciermedia.com

Rob Akimow Director of advertising rakimow@richmond-news.com 604.249.3340

Eve Edmonds Editor editor@richmond-news.com 604.249.3343

The Richmond News is a member of the Glacier Media Group. The News respects your privacy. We collect, use and disclose your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Statement which is available at www.richmond-news.com. The Richmond News is also a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body. The council considers complaints from the public about conduct of member newspapers. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint, contact the council. Your written concern with documentation should be sent to 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. www.bcpresscouncil.org.

Reporters: Alan Campbell acampbell@richmond-news.com | Graeme Wood gwood@richmond-news.com | Philip Raphael praphael@richmond-news.com Sports: Mark Booth mbooth@richmond-news.com Integrated Media Consultants: Angela Nottingham anottingham@richmond-news.com Lori Kininmont lkininmont@richmond-news.com | Kevin Liminsang kliminsang@richmond-news.com | Lynnette Raymond lraymond@richmond-news.com Sales Administrator: Joyce Ang jang@richmond-news.com | Sales Assistant: Veera Irani virani@richmond-news.com

Advertising Sales: 604.270.8031 advertising@richmond-news.com | Delivery: 604.942.3081 distribution@richmond-news.com | Classified: 604.630.3300 classified@van.net

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

LETTERS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

Fair shot on Bridge name makes sense BB gun arena

Dear Editor, Re: “Council shoots gown BB gun arena,” News, Jan. 7. What a relief to read that seven members of council had the good sense to say “No” to this business application and what a disappointment that two apparently do not. What possible good can come from a plethora of very realistic handgun replicas becoming available in our city. I note that Carol Day stated, “It’s still a business. We may not understand it and we may not like it, but it’s still a business. If we better understood it, we would probably all support it.” What a sad commentary from one who was elected to maintain the liveability of our community. Are these two members of council so focussed on increasing the business taxes they collect that they have forgotten their sense of community? Alan Robb Richmond

Reid legally cleared but ethically stained Dear Editor, Re: “MLA Reid cleared of any wrongdoing,” News, Jan. 9. Although Richmond East MLA Linda Reid’s expenses has concluded without any evidence of criminal wrongdoing by police, she is ethically wrong in spending lavishly taxpayers’ money. And the perception of conflict of interest to curry favour with her political supporters leaves a bad after-taste. Yuen Ming Tsui Richmond

We’re all one family Dear Editor, We all live in one home called Mother Earth. Mother Earth has many children in her family. Some of her children respect her and treat her kindly while others give little thought to her well-being and seek only their own welfare and advantage, whatever the cost to other family members. Many children have formed gangs to give themselves a sense of belonging, power, and some control over their own lifestyles. Most of the gangs give themselves names like America, France, Russia, Germany and China. Some become more or less identified by a common language, while others by having a common religion, skin colour or political style of governance. Clearly these various gangs cause division in the family’s household. The shifting alliances within the family continue to manifest a basic disunity and resolution of differences is still being sought through stealth, physical violence and murder (some call this war). Is humanity doomed to continue with such disunity and loss of global security? A good resolution for 2015 and onward would be for each of us to learn how to better demonstrate our love for one another, to be kinder to and more compassionate with our family and to prove we are trustworthy by our words and deeds. And perhaps a prayer for the increased wisdom of our gang leaders would be helpful! Merrill Muttart Richmond

Dear Editor, Re: “Name change needed, what about Riverdale Bridge?” Letters, Jan. 7. No. 2 Road Bridge is the extension of No. 2 Road. Why change the name of the bridge when it tells you exactly where it is? After all these years, we have gotten used to it. How confusing to have yet

another name — Russ Baker, Arthur Laing, John Doe! When I want someone from Vancouver to visit me in Richmond West/Steveston area, tell them to go over Arthur Laing Bridge, which continues straight on to No. 2 Road Bridge, which continues along No. 2 Road. So wherever you want to go, it becomes so easy.

On leaving for Vancouver, I tell them to go straight down No. 2 Road, which leads to No. 2 Road Bridge, go straight on over the Arthur Laing Bridge to get to Vancouver — how easy. Most residents I have spoken to prefer to leave the name alone. Friedah Segal Richmond

RICHMOND SCHOOL DISTRICT #38 2015-16 SCHOOL TRANSFERS & REGISTRATIONS

WHEN AND WHERE SHOULD I REGISTER MY CHILD? If you are new to the district, you must register first. All new Kindergarten registrations for the 2015-16 school year will take place at the English catchment schools from January 12th, 2015 to January 30th, 2015. From February 2nd, 2015, all new Kindergarten registrations for the 2015-16 school year will be taken at the Central Registration Office - 7811 Granville Avenue. All new grade 1-12 students should register at the Central Registration Office. Parents/legal guardians must personally register their children by presenting the following legal documentation: Student’s original Birth Certificate, Student’s and Parent’s original proof of status in Canada, latest proof of Richmond residency (one of the following legal documents: current property tax notice or assessment and current utility bill, signed formal rental or lease agreement and security deposit, signed contract of purchase and sale with possession date and subjects removed and deposit draft). Other documents needed are: last school report card or transcript of marks, immunization records, legal custody documents, reports for extra classroom support. If registered by June 12th, the student will be guaranteed a space in their English catchment school for the 2015-16 school year. If registered after that date, the student will be placed at a nearby school by the school district if space and resources are not available in the students’ catchment school. The deadline for new Early French Immersion, Late French Immersion and Montessori applications is January 30th, 2015. (District Programs Options Form)

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I WANT MY CHILD TO TRANSFER TO A NON-CATCHMENT SCHOOL? Students currently attending a Richmond public school do not need to re-register. The parent/legal guardian of a student who wishes to transfer to a non-catchment school should obtain a Transfer Application Form for Richmond Residents [RSB SA 23] from their catchment school or Central Registration, have it initialed by the catchment school or Central Registration and then submit it to the requested school no later than 4:00 p.m. on Friday, February 27th, 2015. The parent/legal guardian of a student who is not attending a Richmond SD 38 school and wishes to transfer to a non-catchment school must first register at Central Registration and after doing so, may obtain a Transfer Application Form [RSB SA 23] and submit it to the requested school. Commencing Monday, January 19th, 2015 at 8:00 a.m., transfer applications for students wishing to attend a non-catchment school will be received at the requested school. If the application is received at the requested school by February 27th, 2015, and space is available, students will be approved to attend in accordance with the priorities listed in Regulation 501.8-R, paragraph 5.a. [1st: catchment 2nd: Richmond resident transfer students and 3rd: Non Richmond resident transfer students], on a “first come, first served” basis. Richmond resident transfer students have priority over non-Richmond resident transfer students for transfer requests submitted by February 27th, 2015. Schools will mail letters to the parents/legal guardians of transfer applicants on March 13th, 2015, advising them of the status of their child’s application. If the transfer application is received after February 27th, 2015, then the request may be considered in accordance with the criteria set forth in district Regulation 501.8-R, paragraph 5.f. (4) [See Group 3 Student Priority Chart] NOTE: Parents/legal guardians should be aware that schools designated as “full” by the school district will not be able to approve first time transfer applicants due to a lack of available space and resources.

WHAT IF MY CHILD ALREADY ATTENDS A NON-CATCHMENT SCHOOL? Richmond Residents: Richmond resident students who are currently attending a non-catchment school, and wish to continue at that school for the 2015-16 school year, are not required to submit a transfer request. Such students will automatically be enrolled at the school unless they withdraw or transfer out of the school. Please let the school know if you are leaving. Out of District Residents: All students who reside outside of Richmond and are currently attending a Richmond school, and wish to continue at their school, must submit a Transfer Application Form for Non-Richmond Residents [Form RSB SA 73], which is available from the attending school, by February 27th, 2015. To access Regulation 501.8-R, registration or transfer information, please go to the Richmond School District, Student Registration website: http://www.sd38.bc.ca/schools/student_Registration

A8 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WHAT’S ON Wednesday

Get $10 Slot Free Play or $20 Table Match Play with your Dinner Jan 7 – 29 | Wednesdays & Thursdays | 4pm to 8pm

SLOT FREE or PLAY

Grand Villa Casino Starlight Casino Cascades Casino

Cascades Casino | Langley Starlight Casino | New Westminster cascadescasino.ca | starlightcasino.ca

TABLE MATCH PLAY Grand Villa Casino | Burnaby grandvillacasino.com

*Dine in only. Minimum purchase of $18 at The Buffet or $14 at Match or Personas per person. Cannot be combined with any other coupon, discount, price-reduced item(s) or offer. All guests must be Encore Rewards Members. Not a Member? Free to join. To obtain $10 slot free play or $20 table match play present Encore Rewards card, same day dining receipt and coupon to Guest Services. Coupon valid for up to 4 guests. Match Play valid on even money bets only. Offer valid once per week. No cash value. Must be 19+. Valid on Wednesdays & Thursdays 4pm to 8pm, Jan 7-29. CODE: GCE – DNP – 10FP

WE WELCOME YOU TO OUR CLINIC

Janice DeFreitas Office Manager

Barb Nimchuk Dental Hygienist

How do introverts succeed in and extroverted world? Richmond Public Library is hosting the program “The Dynamic Introvert” Jan. 14 from 7 – 8:30 p.m. at the Brighouse (Main) Branch in the 2nd floor Community Place room, 7700 Minoru Gate. To register, visit any branch of Richmond Public Library, call 604-231-6413 or register online at www. yourlibrary.ca/events. This program is free. Richmond Public Library is offering a free family literacy program called Learning Together. The program will take place at the Brighouse Branch on Wednesday mornings starting Jan. 14 and at Cambie Branch, located in the Cambie Shopping Plaza at No. 5 Road and Cambie Road on Thursdays starting Jan. 15. To register, visit any branch of Richmond Public Library, call 604231-6412 or register online at www.yourlibary.ca/ events.

Thursday

A free workshop on Canadian Workplace Culture takes place on Thursday from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. in the 2nd Floor Community Place Room at the Richmond Public Library, 7700 Minoru Gate. To register, visit any branch of Richmond Public Library, call 604-2316413, or register online at yourlibrary.ca/events.

Saturday Start your New Year off on the right foot by exploring the cycling/ walking Railway Greenway Trail from 10 - 11 a.m. This multiuse green pathway takes you through several neighbourhoods connecting the Fraser River Middle Arm and South Dyke/ Steveston waterfronts. Meeting spot: Imperial Landing Parking lot; half a block south of Railway Ave. and Westwater Dr. This event is for all ages. For more information, contact Richmond Fitness

and Wellness Association at 604-238-8004 or email walking@richmond.ca

Upcoming On Sunday (Jan. 25) at 10 a.m. St. Alban Anglican Church (7260 St. Albans Road) is celebrating the life and work of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr with a special service. The Marcus Mosely Gospel Chorale will be making the music, along with other special musical guests. The Clan MacLeod Society of Greater Vancouver presents its 25th Annual Robbie Burns Luncheon Jan. 25 (Robbie Burns actual birthday, in 1759) from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Richmond Curling Club, 5540 Hollybridge Way. Adults $35, children 6-12 years and students $20, and wee ones free. More info at clanmacleodsocietygv. blogspot.ca/. RSVP to clanmacleodgv@gmail.com or by calling Edie at 604937-0958.

VANCOUVER / NORTH SHORE / BURNABY / RICH RICHMOND / DELTA / SURREY / WHITE ROCK / NEW WEST MINSTER / COQUITLAM / MAPLE RIDGE / LANGLEY / VANCOUVER NORTH SHORE / BURNABY / RICHMOND / DELTA / SURREY / WHITE ROCK / NEW WESTMIN STER / COQUITLAM / MAPLE RIDGE / LANGLEY / VAN COUVER / NORTH SHORE / BURNABY / RICHMOND / DELTA / SURREY / WHITE ROCK / NEW WESTMINSTER / COQUITLAM / MAPLE RIDGE / LANGLEY / VANCOU VER NORTH SHORE / BURNABY / RICHMOND / DELTA / SURREY / WHITE ROCK / NEW WESTMINSTER / CO QUITLAM / MAPLE RIDGE / LANGLEY

FREEAPP FREE APP

Natalie Carrier-Denis Dental Hygienist

FREE WHITENING when you reserve your new patient exam and cleaning. (An examination is first required to determine one’s eligibility for whitening)

New Patients, Walk-in & Emergencies Welcome

Early morning, Evenings and Saturday Appointments Available • Cosmetic Dentistry • Veneers • Laser Gum Treatments • Prevention & Oral Health • Sedation • In-Office Whitening • Invisalign • Spa like atmosphere

Call Today to Book Now 604.274.5262

#155-11380 Steveston Hwy www.coppersmithdental.com smile@coppersmithdental.com

INTHEKNOW—ONTHEGO! Newsfrom10leadingcommunitynewspapersinyourpocket!

Just visit theAPP store now to download or visit www.mylowermainland.com

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

Call 604-942-3081 for more info.

1. Mackonner 2. Yaseen R. 3. Carl Allan I. 4. Annabella Y. 5. Leah S. Winners will be contacted by phone. Please pickup gift certiﬁcate from the Richmond News Ofﬁce, 5731 No. 3 Road.

Winners for December 31st Issue

• N A I L C A R E • WA X I N G • FA C I A L S •

N A I L C A R E • W A X I N G • FA C I A L S • N A I L C A R E • W A X I N G

We’re looking for responsible carriers.

RACCOON COLORING CONTEST

Beauty Gateway Aesthetics & Aromatherapy School

FACIAL

SpecialFor ﬁrst time

Special

Bio Lift................... $65

NAILS Manicure............... $10 Pedicure ............... $20 Colour Gel............. 20 $

Gel Nails ............... $25

WAXING Full Leg ................. 21 28 Bikini .......................$$12 9 Underarm................ $$58 $ $

Micro Zone............ $59 Jade Firming ......... $59

For first time Diamond Bio Lift................... $$49 65 Dermabrasion........ European Facial..... 59 Jade Firming ......... $$30 Diamond

AROMA Dermabrasion........ FUSION European Facial.....

49 30 Body Massage & Facial HOT STONE $

MASSAGE(45(60 min)...... Treatment min) ...... $38 55 $

200-8271 Westminster Hwy. (opposite Richmond Public Market)

Tues-Fri 9am to 6pm • Sat 10am to 5pm

604.304.0508

N A I L C A R E • W A X I N G • FA C I A L S • N A I L C A R E • W A X I N G

Saving Up For Something Special? Need To Make Extra Cash?

• N A I L C A R E • WA X I N G • FA C I A L S •

LIFE IS BETTER WHEN THEY’RE SMILING

Book your child’s appointment with a certified specialist today!

One of Five $30 Gift Certificates to

230 - 6180 Blundell Road Richmond, BC V7C 4W7 Pediatric Dental Group Inc. www.PDGdental.com

Draw after February 11, 2015

Winter Sale

A HEALTHY SMILE IS A HAPPY SMILE

Pediatrics & Orthodontics: 604.271.4211

Additional Locations In Vancouver, Delta & Coquitlam

www.lansdowne-centre.com 604 270 1344 Lansdowne Canada Line Station No.3 Road & Alderbridge

A10 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

SPORTS

Send your story ideas or photo submissions to ‘Richmond’ sports Mark Booth at mbooth@richmond-news.com

SENIOR GIRLS BASKETBALL

Wildcats hanging with the hoop heavyweights With a Grade 11 core McMath holds down No. 7 ranking among AAA teams heading into this week’s Top 10 Shootout Mark Booth

Sports Editor mbooth@richmond-news.com

The McMath Wildcats return to the Fraser Valley this week, looking for more seasoning against the top senior girls basketball teams in the province. Despite a core of Grade 11 players, the Wildcats hold down the No. 7 ranking among AAA schools and they should only get better as they march towards next month’s playoffs. After participating at tournaments in Port Coquitlam and Abbotsford, McMath heads to Coquitlam for the prestigious Centennial Top 10 Shootout, starting Thursday, where it will receive a steady diet of ranked teams. A year ago, most of these girls came within a game of winning the provincial junior girls championship. Now, they look to become just the second Richmond school in recent memory to qualify for the B.C. AAA tourney. “I wasn’t sure where we would be as mostly a Grade 11 team, but from what I have seen from other teams so far, we are right in the mix,” said co-coach Paul Jones. “League games are big for the development of the whole team. But it’s tournaments like this where our top seven to eight have to really step up their games and it helps them become better players.” Jones has teamed up with longtime coach Anne Gillrie-Carre to handle the bench duties this season. He needs no introduction to the players, having worked with many

of them way back during their days in the Richmond Youth Basketball League. Among the familiar faces is his daughter Jessica Jones — a standout Grade 11 guard who was named to Basketball B.C.’s U17 provincial team last week. She is part of a group of outstanding athletes that thrive in a number of sports. “It’s a big jump for these girls to play at the senior level but this is a team of very good athletes with some outstanding basketball players,” said Jones. “They are at the point where they had to decide (what will be their No. 1 sport) but whether it’s soccer, field hockey, softball or basketball, you will see a lot of them play at the next level.” Jessica Zawada and Bobby-Jo Colburn were also in contention for the provincial team roster, while guard Justine McCaskill has previously participated in Basketball B.C. elite programs. Some promising younger players include Zawada’s Grade 9 sister Abby who played on the provincial U14 team this past summer. What the Wildcats may lack in height at the post positions, they more than make up for it in athleticism. “We have some versatile girls who can do a lot of things,” Jones added. “We are going to run, press, drive, kick (out) and shoot to keep being successful.” Last month, at the 16-team WJ Mouat Tournament, the Wildcats managed a sixth place finish after falling 54-45 to eventual champion and No. 4 Riverside in the quarter-finals. They also rolled off

McMath Wildcats Justine McCaskill closes in on a McRoberts opponent during last week’s home floor win in Richmond Senior Girls Basketball League play. Photo by Mark Booth four straight wins at a jamboree, hosted by Riverside secondary, highlighted by a 52-50 win over No. 3 Mouat thanks to a three-

point buzzer beater by Jessica Jones. That event also included a 57-42 victory against No. 8 Charles Best.

JUNIOR HOCKEY

Sockeyes resume quest for first place after lengthy layoff Richmond Sockeyes returned from nearly a three-week layoff to split a pair of games as they remain in a neck-and-neck battle for first overall in the Pacific Junior Hockey League. Playing for the first time since Dec. 19, the Sockeyes managed a 5-3 road win over the Aldergrove Kodiaks in a rematch of last year’s championship series. Richmond enjoyed a 2-1 lead after one period and iced the game on Daniel Oakley’ his second of the night with less than five

minutes remaining. Matthew Bissett, Tyler Andrews and Brett Gelz had the other goals. Bissett also had a pair of assists, while Kurt Russell made 22 saves. The momentum was short-lived as the Sockeyes returned to Minoru Arenas and suffered a rare home ice defeat — a 3-2 result to the Mission City Outlaws. PJHL scoring leader Troy Kaczynski and rookie Tyler Paterson each had a goal and an assist in a losing cause. Richmond (26-7-0-2) entered this week’s

play tied for top spot in the Tom Shaw Conference with the North Vancouver Wolf Pack (26-6-0-2). The teams are battling for home ice advantage throughout the playoffs as both are 15 points clear of their nearest rival. They are slated to meet one more time this season — Feb. 12 at Minoru. The Sockeyes return to action Thursday when Aldergrove visits at 7 p.m. Icing… Former Sockeyes standout Johnny Wesley has a fresh start in his Western

HOCKEY NIGHT IN RICHMOND! MISSION ICEBREAKERS KODIAKS SOCKEYES VS ALDERGROVE Richmond's Premier Sports Team Since 1972

Hockey League career with the Lethbridge Hurricanes. The 17-year-old was dealt by the Vancouver Giants during Saturday’s league trading deadline in exchange for Zane Jones. After failing to crack the Giants roster, Wesley had been playing with the Surrey Eagles of the B.C. Hockey League where he had managed 21 points in 31 games. The 2013-14 PJHL rookie-of-the-year also had a goal in one game as a call-up with the Giants.

MINORU ARENA

7511 Minoru Gate NEXT GAME NEXT HOME HOME GAME

Thursday, Jan.. 28 15 -@NO 7:00pm Thursday GAME , Nov GREAT HOCKEYDec. ACTION! FAMILY FRIENDLY 530 @@7:00pm Thursday, Nov. 5:45pm

Adults $10 • Students & Seniors $6

www.richmondsockeyes.com

GREAT HOCKEY ACTION! FAMILY FRIENDLY! Kids (6 - 12) &$3Seniors $6 Adults $10 • Students

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

SPORTS RICHMOND WINTER CLASSIC

A11

Coping

FILL PLEASE

www.pathwaysclubhouse.com

Offering: IV Sedation • Wisdom Teeth Extraction Dr. Ben Partovi, DDS Dr. Kara Ellis-Partovi, DDS Dr. Melissa Chui, DMD

www.westrichmondsmiles.com MONDAY - FRIDAY 10AM - 6PM

604-241-0707

#5-8671 NO. 1 ROAD (AT FRANCIS) SEAFAIR PLAZA

Richmond FC defeated Central City Breakers Elite in route to winning the U15 Division at the Richmond Girls Soccer Association’s inaugural Winter Classic held on Jan. 3-4. Fusion FC 2000 (U16) and Vancouver FC (U13) were the other winners. Photo by Gord Goble

JUNIOR HOCKEY

Sandhu traded to Americans

Tyler Sandhu’s Western Hockey League career is back in Washington State. The former Seafair Minor Hockey standout was traded last week by the Red Deer Rebels to the Tri-City Americans for a pair of fourth round WHL Bantam Draft picks. Sandhu began the current WHL camp gain with the Everett Silvertips where he

played for over two seasons before being traded to Red Deer back on Oct. 20. The recently turned 19-year-old McRoberts grad managed 18 points in 28 games with Red Deer. Sandhu had an assist in his Americans’ debut — a 4-3 win over the Seattle Thunderbirds on Friday night. He was originally selected 42nd overall in the

At Banners You Can Afford to Dine Out 3 Times a Day!

Francis Rd. Williams Rd.

No. 3 Road

Gilbert Rd

Steveston Hwy

★

50%

OFF

with coupon buy one menu item at regular price + 2 beverages and receive a second menu item at

50% off.

Not valid with senior discount, stamp cards and daily specials. Not valid with other discount offers. Valid January 14 - 27, 2015

Best all day Grill in Richmond. Open everyday 7:30am-9pm

BREAKFAST SPECIAL from $5.95 LUNCH SPECIAL from $6.95 #104-10151 No. 3 Rd, Richmond

604-272-3238

2011 WHL Bantam Draft by the Portland Winterhawks. “Tyler is an offensive forward who scored 19 goals with Everett as a 16-yearold,” said American’s general manager Bob Tory. “With our long-term injuries, we needed to add a forward to our team.”

1/2 price breakfast

LADNER RICHMONDabc abc 5124-48th Avenue 3580 No. 3 Road

or lunch entree MONDAY – FRIDAY UNTIL 4PM

great tfood price dinner entree tha ’s a big deal T: 604 276 946 9222 7880 T: 604

- RESTAURANT -

Enjoy 50% off a breakfast or lunch entrée with the purchase of any entrée of equal or greater value. Not to be combined with any other coupon, promotion, or special feature.

Valid 2, 2015 at Ladner Location only. only. Validuntil untilMay January 30, 2015 at Richmond Location

1/2

SUNDAY – THURSDAY AFTER 4PM

- RESTAURANT -

Enjoy 50% off a dinner entrée with the purchase of any entrée of equal or greater value. Not to be combined with any other coupon, promotion, or special feature. Validuntil untilMay February 1, 2015 at Richmond Location Valid 2, 2015 at Ladner Location only. only.

A12 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

SPORTS MINOR HOCKEY

Dogs dominate in Semiahmoo Richmond Atom C1 Ice Dogs celebrated the holiday season by capturing their division at the Semiahmoo Minor Hockey Association Christmas Challenge. The Atom and Peewee tournament had 16 entries vying for medals in the Atom age group. Teams from Cloverdale, Langley, Vancouver, Burnaby, as

Richmond Atom C1 Ice Dogs were all smiles after their tournament win at Semiahmoo.

.com

back with seven unanswered goals in an 8-2 victory. The game was highlighted by great team defence, strong goaltending and some pretty goals by the forwards. The Ice Dogsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roster features Kevin Guo, Torin He, Markus Johansen, Nihaal Kang, Nathan Lai, Jack Marcoe, Gabriel Ng, Anthony Nott Lang, Daiji Ochiai, Viram Sarkaria, Ryan Shi, Harjit Uppal, Benjamin van der Tas and Timothy Woo. The coaches are Jim van der Tas and Joel Marcoe.

-6

-5

Get exclusive access to the best offers in the city

well as Richmond, rounded out the division. The event had a great hockey atmosphere throughout the four days, including a skills competition which proved to be a big hit for the kids. The Ice Dogs went 3-0 in round-robin play, setting up an all-Richmond Minor showdown in the semifinals versus at the Atom C3 Mustangs. A tight game saw the Dogs prevail 6-3. The final against the Semiahmoo Rockets saw Richmond trail 2-1 after one period before roaring

THE ULTIMATE $10,000 FISHING EXCURSION OF YOUR LIFE!

An all-inclusive 5 day/4 night guided fishing & eco-trip for two, including flights, accommodations & meals.

2 Adult Admission Tickets to the 14th Annual Taboo Naughty But Nice Sex Show at The Vancouver Convention Centre

Full Discovery Lash Extension Set

Taboo Naughty But Nice Sex Show

Vi Show Beauty Lounge

$40

$20

$75

Vancouver, BC

$29

JAN 21-25

VancouverBoatShow.ca

-6

PRESENTED BY

BC PLACE & GR GRANVILLE ISLAND

TO P

-7

Contest Deadline Sunday January 25

Vancouver, BC

To enter email your name, email address and phone number to: contest@vancourier.com (Subject Line: BOAT SHOW)

Laser Skin Tightening Treatment for Full Face OR Full Face & Neck at Grace Laser Skin Care Grace Laser Skin Care Vancouver, BC

From

$49

41 West Restaurant Vancouver, BC

$46

From

$19

-5

$199

Fine-Dining Brunch or Lunch for 2 OR 4 People, Including EntrĂŠes, Dessert and Drinks

Private 90-Minute Driving Lesson from Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy

Waffle Bant Vancouver, BC

Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy Pitt Meadows, BC

$15

$150

Get these and other exclusive offers at SocialShopper.com Visit us online

Find an offer you like

Shin Buddhism & Family Life Henryy Adams Sensei is the youthful resident minister of the San Mateo Buddhist Temple emple in California.

Two Fresh Belgian Waffles with Toppings and Coffee or Tea at Waffle Bant - Robson

$34

Public Lecture by Rev. Henry Adams

Buy it

Enjoy it!

$75

Please join us for this interesting and personal public lecture. Saturday, January 17, 2015 at 3:00 pm

Steveston Buddhist Temple T 4360 Garry Garr Street

604-277-2323

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

A15

Steveston Village

Winter Wonderland Save up to

SALE

%OFF on selected

January 16-23

items

at participating merchants

Fashion Boutique Since 1980

#110-12031 2nd Avenue

TREASURES BOUTIQUE #140 - 12240 2nd Ave.

604-275-7119

#120, 12000 - 1st Avenue Richmond, BC V7E 3L9

604-644-5524

Wool & Wicker 604-277-3331

www.jet-lagtravelfashion.com

www.nursenextdoor.com richmond@nursenextdoor.com

Imported Yarn & Decorated Baskets

120 - 12051 Second Ave.

604-275-1239

www.woolandwicker.com

#150 - 12240 Second Avenue Richmond

778-297-7422

stevesboardshop.com

#110 - 12211 First Avenue

604-284-5152

www.BellsBakeShop.com

Authentic, Natural Greek Cuisine Fully Licenced, Catering, Lunch & Dinner

ALEGRIA CAFE & GIFTWARE LTD. OPEN

Mon - Sat 11 - 10pm Sun 4 - 10pm 3420 Moncton St., Historic Steveston Village

604-277-5626 Fax: 277-2602

Taste the difference!

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

Tues - Sat 8am-4pm Sun 8am-5pm Closed Mondays

www.stevestonpurewater.com

12151 1st avenue

#7 - 3740 Chatham Street

604-274-1215

Serving the Richmond community since 2002

604-272-8850

Steveston Bakery 12231 No. 1 Road Richmond, BC

604-271-3656

TUTORING SERVICES BC Certiﬁed Teachers

778-323-2752 info@slcrichmond.ca

Award-winning Italian Cuisine in the heart of Steveston

Closed January 18 – 21 Re-opening January 22 at 4:30pm for dinner Open 7 days a week 11:30am to 10pm 12240 Second Ave @ Bayview

604-270-9252

A16 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WEEKLY SPECIAL Jan 14 - Jan 18 , 2015 New Zealand Whole Goat Leg

Golden Panda Milagrosa Rice 8kgs 泰國金熊貓牌特選香米

11bag

Regent Assorted Cakes 10x20g 雜錦蛋糕

2 ea

紐西蘭特級羊脾

$ 29 /LB

New Zealand Whole Goat Shoulder 紐西蘭特級羊肩

紐西蘭特級羊腩

$ 19 /LB

Maling Pork Luncheon Meat 397g 上海梅林午餐肉

2 ea

日昇藍盒豆腐

新鮮金錢腱

Uncle Bill Frozen Fish Maw 300g

四季豆

1 lb

New Zealand Whole Goat Belly

王梨標醬油

Fresh Digital Muscles

急凍鯽魚(去肚去鱗)

Sunrise Soft Tofu 300g

99ea

Green Beans

$ 29 /LB

Super Q Golden Bihon 454g

Frozen Tilapia (Gutted & Scaled)

95ea

Fresh Pork Belly (Bone-in) 新鮮有骨五花腩

Vita Drinks 6x250ml Assorted Flavors 維他系列飲品

2 FOR

LKK Black Bean Garlic Sauce 368g

李錦記蒜蓉豆鼓醬

2 ea

Sunrise Pressed Tofu 340g

日昇白豆乾

1 ea

Fresh Pork Picnic (Bone in) 新鮮有骨豬上肉

Searay Carved Squid 300g

Searay Seafood Mix 400g

2 ea

海威切花魷魚

海威海鮮什錦

Buenas Grated Cassava Captain Choice Coconut 454g Meat 400g

USA Fuji Apples 美國富士蘋果

標叔急凍爆魚肚

好牌冷凍木薯粉

越式冰凍椰子肉

4 ea

China Pomelo

1 ea

Hawaiian Papaya

79 lb

中國蜜柚

夏威夷木瓜

蒜蕊

Field Tomatoes 肉茄

1 lb

99ea 2 FOR

Garlic Stem

1 lb 99

OPEN DAILY 8:30AM - 7:30PM 8108 PARK ROAD • TEL. 604.278.8309 WHILE QUANTITIES LAST

3 FOR

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Learning in a Renaissance fashion Pythagoras Academy begins second year as one of Richmond’s first non-religious, independent school Student life at Pythagoras Academy is taking shape as the school enters the second half of the second year of its existence. Founded in 2013, Pythagoras bills itself as one of Richmond’s first non-religious, coeducational independent school certified by the Ministry of Education. The school’s goal is to focus children on Renaissance-based modern knowledge by incorporating fine arts into most facets of the students’ educational goals. “The founding members felt this was very important; Learning about the Renaissance and the arts and its scientists was being lost in society,” noted Pythagoras’ inaugural principal Clive Austin, who himself helped found West Point Grey Academy. Smaller class sizes and more one-on-one learning for students who need the extra attention distinguishes Pythagoras. The school also has a strong commitment to openness and tolerance of all cultures and beliefs, said Austin, an educator for 47 years. “I think we have to be tolerant of all religions and focus on inclusiveness. We have children of many religions and as time goes on, they will learn about other religions in their social studies,” said Austin. The openness to all

religions and cultures has meant a diverse student body has been formed at Pythagoras, Austin added. Pythagoras has partnered with several fine arts organizations such as Goh Ballet, the Arts Umbrella and the Vancouver School of Music, all of which offer on-site extra-curricular classes after school for an additional fee. “At this point in time our focus is to build the written and language skills,” said Austin. The school has a robust visual arts program with art classes and dance classes becoming a particular hit with students. Austin said teachers are directed to intertwine different subjects, such as math and arts, in order to challenge students to think outside the box. It is noted in the school’s curriculum guidelines that “students participate in a rich, diverse, logically progressive curriculum, which guides ways of thinking, knowing and doing.” The learning that happens at Pythagoras is very hands-on and focuses on developing interpersonal skills. Part of that means students should have a strong English background, said Austin. “We have to concentrate on ensuring the level of spoken and written English is very much predominant in our school,” he said,

Classes at Pythagoras Academy encourage a multi disciplinary approach, including fine arts. Photos submitted while noting there are challenges in Richmond, given its large immigrant community. Any child who needs help, be it with a language or math or social studies, can get one-on-one help at the school’s skills centre, a program designed by Austin himself. Only in its second year, Pythagoras is also accruing digital equipment and hoping to build a new gymnasium for an eventual expansion into high school. So far, the school only offers classes for kindergarten to Grade 7 but will open it’s first Grade 8 class in September.

PRESIDENT OPTICAL 統一眼鏡 EST 1994

PRESIDENT OPTICAL

UNIT 1120 TEL: 604-278-9303

WE ACCEPT EXTENDED HEALTH CARE INSURANCE & MSP

代客申請政府配鏡輔助接受各類公司配鏡保險 #1120-8181 CAMBIE RD. RICHMOND, BC TEL: 604-278-9303

Children are especially vulnerable to macular damage and sleep disruption

An Exclusive store established in 1994.

本公司創立於1994年,僅此一家別無分店

** SOME CONDITIONS APPLY**

ES E EIV ASS RECOF GL O T IN ASE HIS CH G T R PUR N I BR YOU OFF

$ PRESIDENT OPTICAL #1120-8181 CAMBIE ROAD RICHMOND, BC

B2 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Finding the right fit Ultimate starter guide for choosing private school While finding the right house is all about location, location, location; when it comes to private schools, the motto is fit, fit, fit. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. What makes a school perfect for your neighbour’s child doesn’t necessarily make it the right choice for yours. Your family’s circumstances, the individual strengths and needs of your child, your education philosophy and vision will all contribute to your choice of schools. Private and independent schools are numerous and diverse. There are schools with excellent academic and athletic programs. Some schools follow a distinct education philosophy, such as Montessori, or serve a particular religious community. There are arts-based schools, all-boys schools, boarding schools…and the list goes on. So before you start flipping through attractive brochures or browsing websites, take the time to consider, as a family, what it is you are looking for in a school and why.

Top considerations: ! Your child’s personality, learning style and academic ability; ! Special learning strengths and/or needs your child may have; ! Your family’s values, goals and priorities; ! Your budget for education spending; ! How far you are willing to let your child travel each day and commuting distance to and from school; ! What type of academic setting you are looking for; a back-to-basics curriculum or a more alternative approach and how strong you’d like the academic focus to be; ! Your absolute must-haves, such as small class sizes or specific athletic facilities; ! Coed or same sex, boarding and/or day school preferences; ! School size: Are you searching for a small or large school?; ! Program duration: Are you looking for a school with an elementary and a high school program, where your child can stay for many years? —Courtesy of ourkids.net

Delta Christian School You’re invited to our

OPEN HOUSE

Thursday, January 15

9:30am-2:30pm & 6:00pm-8:00pm

Early Bird Registration for 2015/16 4789 - 53rd St., Delta

604-946-2514

Now Offering FREE KINDERGARTEN* &

25% off Tuition* Grades 1 through 7

Must register before January 31, 2015

*For new families

Limited space School bus to North Delta

contact: tony@deltachristianschool.org www.deltachristianschool.org

School tours are available anytime by appointment

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Make sure to take more than a tour

Is your child gifted? Choice School offers: Personalized programming, learning opportunities that inspire and challenge high ability students, and an emotionally nurturing environment where they can be themselves.

Arranging for an individual visit can get more of your questions answered Most private and independent schools welcome the opportunity to provide you with a tour of their school. This step is one of the most important in choosing a school and should be conducted after you have visited private school expos, researched all possible schools and gone to open houses. When arranging a school visit, it is best to ask for an individual tour on a typical school day. Group tours may keep you from getting all your questions answered and may not allow you the time to experience the school’s atmosphere. You need to be able to envision your child at that school, interacting with the teachers and socializing with the other students. It will be very helpful if you bring a list of questions to ask on your tour. Along with getting the facts like school amenities or a breakdown of what exactly

tuition covers, it is important to observe the school in action. You will want to observe whether the school is diverse enough for you and your child. You’ll also want to see children engaged in their school work or play and see how they respond to their teachers. Later, arrange a chance for your child to interact with students at your top two or three schools. The school visits allows prospective students to feel more comfortable with possible future interviews or tests by having already met teachers, administrators and other students. After the tours, you and your child should record any impressions or thoughts of each school to review later when making a decision on the school or schools to apply to. —Courtesy of ourkids.net

• Our advanced academic program engages students in learning well beyond grade levels. • We make a difference in gifted children’s lives!

You are invited to our

Open House

Friday, Feb 27 9am-11am See our school in action Check our website for full details

Where curiosity and creativity are the catalysts for learning.

Choice School

For the Gifted and Exceptional

www.choiceschool.org 20451 Westminster Highway North Richmond, BC V6V 1B3 Ask about our tuition assistance program

Limited spaces in selected grades. Call now to reserve your child’s place: 604-273-2418

Join us for a

FREE robotics or

coding class! ROBOTICS (gRaDeS 2-6)

LTVrn how to build Vnd proSrVm LTSo robots. ®

CODING (gRaDeS 3-5)

ChildrTn lTVrn to dTsiSn fun & TVsy SVmTs Vnd VnimVtions.

• DVtT: SVturdVy, JVnuVry 17, 2015 • TimT: 2-3 pm; 3-4 pm; 4-5 pm (plTVsT indicVtT which timT slot you prTfTr) hmond • PlVcT: SylvVn LTVrninS 120-8171 Cook RoVd, Richmond (bTtwTTn No.3 Rd Vnd BuswTll St) • RSVP: ThursdVy, JVnuVry 15th

Sylvan of Richmond

(604) 273-3266

ED. T I M I L S I E C A P S CALL TODAY TOOT! RESERVE A SP

B4 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Taking a leap of faith Many non-secular schools focus beyond own religion

All our tutors are BC CERTIFIED TEACHERS with extensive tutoring experience!

We’re NOW OPEN and enrollment is going to fill-up soon! Come Celebrate our GRAND OPENING February, 7th at noon! Register your kids today and help them succeed!

SUBJECTS: Math 8-12 Science 8-10 Chemistry 11,12 + AP Biology 11,12 + AP Humanities Social Studies… And More!

All our tutors are full-time teachers in the Richmond school district who know and understand the curriculum. We have tutors primarily for Secondary school. They help with regular homework and exam preparation.

778 323 2752 6231 London Rd. Richmond, BC

www.slcrichmond.ca

There’s a lot more to faith-based schools than morning prayers and religion classes. “The notion of learning to live in the faith is a big thing,” explained Alan Sears, professor of social studies education at the University of New Brunswick. For many schools, integrating faith-based principles into everyday life can range from fostering a respectful, tolerant environment to encouraging students to participate in community service projects. Sears points out that a faith-based worldview extends far beyond religion class. “There are worldviews reflected in every subject, including math and science,” he said. “There’s an assumption that math is neutral. But many of the world problems (in secular schools) reflect a capitalist worldview, because they’re about making money. None are about sharing it or giving it away.” Many faith-based schools, such as Northmount School in Toronto, Ontario, have substantial portions of the student body that don’t adhere to that particular faith. Northmount’s director of admissions, Manfred von Vulte estimates, that 30 per cent of Northmount students are non-Catholic. “We talk about how one leads a good life. That’s applicable to everyone,” he said. “We are not in the business of converting anyone. Our position is that we want our

students to be the best adherents to whatever religion they observe.” For observant students, religion courses can help them gain a more comprehensive understanding of their faith. “There’s just too much to teach in Sunday school or youth groups,” said Sears. Northmount Grade 8 student Cahal is Catholic and appreciates being able to learn in a Catholic environment. “It’s good to have religion in your everyday life,” he said. “There’s a chapel in the school, I like that.” Northmount students attend mass twice a week, led by two retired priests. Von Vulte says there’s something in the sermons for everyone, not just Catholics. “When they talk to the boys, it’s not so much about Catholic doctrine, it’s more like be kind to your neighbour,” he explained. Sears says that while most faith-based schools do a great job of promoting tolerance and understanding of other viewpoints, some schools may provide a narrow education. “Some are too focused on the faith and they can teach people to be closed to other worldviews,” he said. He recommends that parents check out the curriculum before they decide to enrol their children in any given school. —Annette Bourdeau (ourkids. net)

Sacred Heart School

Open House Thursday, February 5th • 6:00 - 8:30pm

WHY SHOULD YOU CONSIDER SACRED HEART SCHOOL?

Our community-based school is committed to developing the whole child in a balanced learning environment. Vibrant, involved and nurturing teachers foster our students to be respectful and accountable leaders.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Diﬀerentiated learning for individualized and inclusive advancement with programs such as ReadWell, Mathletics and Orton Gillingham Advanced technological literacy developed using a state-of-the art Mac Lab, iPads and interactive white boards in all classrooms French program from Kindergarten to gr. 7 with two dedicated French teachers After school high-school exam preparatory sessions oﬀered

Sacred Heart School

A Catholic Community of Learning and Faith in Delta, B.C.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Wide spectrum of extracurricular activities are oﬀered to shape growing minds Fine Arts programming includes Junior and Senior bands, Visual Arts Club and Choirs Athletic Program includes recreational activities and intramural sports. SHS actively participates in interschool competition in soccer, cross-country, track and ﬁeld, basketball and volleyball Brain gain opportunities like the Odyssey of the Mind program develops problem-solving skills Lil’ Saints Preschool is conveniently located next door www.lilsaintspreschool.org

COMMUNITY, SPIRIT & FAITH

Staﬀ and families cultivate a strong spirit of generousity rooted in the Christian faith to aid those in need - locally and beyond We celebrate and support one-another with a spirit of love, faith and compassion OPEN HOUSE - February 5th, 6:00 to 8:30pm Tour the school and classrooms Ready, Set, Learn program Experience the children’s visual arts projects Listen to the award winning school band

www.shsdelta.net

3900 Arthur Drive, Delta, B.C. V4K 3N5 604.946.2611 oﬃce@shsdelta.org

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Creating lifelong learners Philip Raphael

Staff Reporter praphael@richmond-news.com

“Learning should be fun,” said Jasmin Mehroin, owner of the recently opened Steveston Learning Centre (SLC). And while she admits that could sound trite, she believes the way to establish an enjoyable, educational environment is by tailoring how a student is taught. That’s the philosophy behind SLC, which seeks to achieve academic success by having experienced and caring teaching staff — who are already immersed in the local, public school system during the daytime — available and ready to lend their skills to students in SLC classes after hours. It’s all part of SLC’s philosophy of being able to not only target specific, subject areas of learning, but to produce “lifelong learners,” Methroin said. “I wanted to create a service that prepared students to succeed in their current areas of study, and beyond, into the post secondary part of their education.” While some other tutoring services can also provide that, Mehroin says that having teachers who are currently active in the education system makes them better equipped to respond to the specific expectations and requirements in schools today when it comes to study habits, sitting

Understanding

your child Understanding your child means helping means helping your child your child

Dr. Pinkus has maintained a private practice for over 20 years. She offers short and long term psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults and families. She conducts detailed psycho educational assessements of individuals with educational and behavioral issues, including potential giftedness and learning disabilities. Many individuals experience learning challenges due to a learning disability that has not been identiﬁed or has been misdiagnosed as a behavioral or attention problem. With a thorough assessment, the individual's learning style, strengths or weaknesses can be better understood so that effective learning can occur.

Dr. Pinkus can be contacted at www.joanpinkus.ca or 604.266.5354

Dr. Joan Pinkus registered psychologist 604-266-5354 Jasmin Mehroin, of Steveston Learning Centre, said her tutoring service fills an important niche. Photo submitted exams or help with homework. “They understand what is needed and can instil the strategies students need to excel.” A significant part of that is building up a student’s confidence level. Mehroin adds that it’s not just the amount of knowledge a student possesses which can determine the kind of mark they get. Often, their success has to do with their level of confidence to address what is being asked of them, whether it is in a daily, classroom setting, or structured exam session. And when a student begins to thrive and feel more comfortable with meeting those challenges, their results can show marked improvement.

The Kerrisdale Professional Centre Suite 314 - 2025 West 42nd Avenue, Vancouver, B.C.

RICHMOND

CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Richmond Christian School has limited spaces available for students entering Grades 8-12 in September 2015 Registration and Open House

Wednesday, January 14th

Middle School Open House Secondary Open House 10am-Noon 1pm-3pm 10200 No. 5 Road 10260 No. 5 Road

Questions? 604.272.5720

Visit http://myrcs.ca/prospective-families/ for more information and application package.

KEC... where French means success! French: All levels welcome. Test Prep: DELF, SAT2, AP & IB English: All levels welcome. Academic & Creative Writing. Test Prep: BC Provincial, SAT2, SSAT, LPI, AP & IB G1-12 Math/Science: Calculus, Physics, Chemistry. Test Prep: Provincial, AP & IB Kueis Education Centre #5510 - 8181 Cambie Road, Richmond, B.C. V6X 3X9

Grades 8-12

Activate Your Unlimited Learning Potential

604.288.8152 email: info@kueis.com

B6 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Southpointe

Hands-on learning

ACAD E M Y

Sylvan charts future trends with robotics and coding classes Philip Raphael

Staff Reporter praphael@richmond-news.com

OPEN HOUSE TUESDAY, JANUARY 27 9:00AM–10:30AM

We instruct, involve and inspire our students to learn, lead and succeed. Shahin Virji, Director of Admissions

svirji@southpointe.ca | 604-948-8826

1900 56TH STREET TSAWWASSEN, BC • V4L 2B1

www.southpointe.ca

There’s going to be plenty of child’s play going on at Sylvan of Richmond this Saturday (Jan. 17). But while it’s going to be full of fun with animated characters, singing and dancing robots, it has a practical side, too. It’s a way of getting the young generation on the pathway of learning new, creative ways of thinking and problem solving. That’s why Sylvan of Richmond is offering free, introductory classes in robotics using Lego building blocks, and coding language to design simple computer games and animation. “This is a way of giving kids, and their parents a taste of two new programs we’re launching,” said Diana Kan, centre director for Sylvan

Students at Sylvan of Richmond can bring their creations to life with new robotics and computer coding courses. Photo submitted of Richmond. “These are all hands-on types of programs and the best way to experience them is by actually doing them.” The regular classes begin in February. Kan said the decision to add them to Sylvan’s traditional curriculum is a way of addressing future academic trends. “A lot of kids growing up

today are more computer savvy than their parents,” she said. “And we want to make sure we’re preparing the students for what’s to come.” Each session, the students have a different project to accomplish, with instructors guiding them through the process which has its challenges and learning moments.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Pythagoras Academy Committed to Educational Excellence in Richmond Pythagoras Academy is an elite independent school, and the first private non-religious elementary school in Richmond who believes in bringing classical Renaissance educational values to modern minds, and in championing strong academics alongside an impeccably thorough focus on the arts. The school is also strongly connected to the Richmond community, and is always seeking ways to give back. In September of 2014 Pythagoras Academy has taken its commitment to the arts and to the local community to another level: the school has partnered up with three of the best fine and performing art institutions in Vancouver in order to provide superb programs to both Pythagoras Academy students as well as children in the city of Richmond. The After School Music Program is offered by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra School of Music, the only music school in North America founded by a major

symphony orchestra. In this exclusive collaboration, Pythagoras Academy affords students of all ages the opportunity to work directly with professional musicians and top-level educators in the fields of classical, jazz and world music. Students are able to interact with the orchestra by sitting on the stage with the VSO during rehearsals, and working directly with world-class guest artists who perform with the VSO. Most importantly, the students have the opportunity to be a part of a musical community that celebrates excellence and achievement. As part of the newly enhanced arts education platform, Goh Ballet Dance Academy, an internationally renowned dance school whose students continually receive enormous worldwide recognition, is offering a special dance curriculum at Pythagoras Academy. By participating in this program, children have the opportunity to study dance with instructors that are

certified by the Royal Academy of Dance. In addition to building on essential ballet techniques, students learn about the importance of group interaction, creativity and the joy of self-expression. No creative curriculum is complete without the visual arts. To that effect, Arts Umbrella, a non-profit art education centre for children and youth, facilitates the new After School Visual Arts Program. Arts umbrella offers two courses on a weekly basis throughout the 2014/15 school year. Architecture Meaning and Making class will teach students how to communicate ideas through drawing, and how to then translate those drawings and ideas into three-dimensional models. Through modelmaking, students will be able to learn about the fundamentals of architecture and green technologies. Drawing & Painting class is taught by a practicing artist who will employ a variety of materials, techniques and themes in order to give students the tools to express their own creativity. This class will also allow the students to apply their problem solving skills, thereby matching Pythagoras Academy’s philosophy which stipulates that critical thinking and creativity are interdependent, and that the most complete kind of education nurtures both equally. Pythagoras Academy is thrilled to be able to offer this new enriched arts curriculum in the 2014/15 school year, and is particularly excited about being able to extend this incredible educational opportunity to not just it’s own students, but to all Richmond

families. Our new arts program is available to all students even if they are not enrolled at Pythagoras Academy.

Or contact the school via E-mail: info@pythagorasacademy.ca Phone: 604-370-0199

Don’t miss your chance to give your child a For more information on our outstanding world-class arts education right in your own educational partners, please visit the community! following websites: www.vsoschoolofmusic.ca, For more information about Pythagoras www.gohballet.com and Academy and the new arts curriculum, please visit www.pythagorasacademy.ca www.artsumbrella.com

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Keeping your private options open

Be wary of putting all your hopes into one ‘perfect’ school; many others could fit your child’s needs

Making a winning application to a few different schools could be the key to success in finding the right place for your child’s education. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, use a priority list as a guide; it’s time to apply to schools of your choice. It’s best not to limit yourself to submitting an application to just one “perfect” school, as the chances are there are a number that could be an appropriate fit for your child. Points to remember: ! Submit applications early; some schools complete their enrolment by early spring; ! Some schools have set entrance years. (This information should be available on the school’s profile); ! Depending on your child’s age and the school, an entrance exam may be required; ! Do not stress your child out about writing an entrance exam; ! If the school asks to interview your child, prepare for the interview. Admissions officers warn against being “too” prepared, however. ! Don’t pin all your own or your child’s hopes on one particular school; ! Be honest and clear about your child’s needs. If he or she has special learning

requirements, be sure the school is willing and able to accommodate them; ! Be clear about what you are looking for. If the school assigns two hours of homework each night, this practice is not likely to change once your child is there; ! Extracurricular activities are an important component of many schools. Consider how those offered by a particular school fits with your child’s interests; ! Be realistic about your children’s academic abilities; don’t push them into a school where they won’t be able to cope. What are schools looking for: ! An appropriate fit for your child and your family; ! A sense of whether your child wants to attend their school or is being pressured by parents: ! A clear sense of your child’s strengths and challenges; ! Your child’s likelihood of becoming a participating, integrated member of the school community; ! A family’s full understanding of the school’s philosophy, vision and expectations at the outset. Whatever happens, stay grounded while

awaiting results from the various applications. The finish line is in now in sight and there are a few points that every parent should keep in mind: ! There is likely more than one school at which your child would prosper, so don’t be overly disappointed if your child does not gain admission to one particular school;

! Don’t be crushed by less-than-stellar entrance exam results. Most schools will consider more than just test scores; ! Once you have accepted a school, have confidence in your choice and that you’ve invested in his or her future. —Courtesy of ourkids.net

St. Patrick Regional Secondary School Grades 8-12

Open House January 18th @ 1:00 pm

Deadline for Grade 8 Registration February 11, 2015

115 E. 11th Avenue, Vancouver BC

604.874.6422

www.stpats.bc.ca

AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE A SOUTHRIDGE EDUCATION APPLY NOW SOUTHRIDGE IS PLEASED TO OFFER THE FOLLOWING BURSARIES: The Southridge Spirit Bursary One ﬁve year bursary, covering up to 100% tuition for a Grade 8-12 student The Carol E. Levy Memorial Bursary One three year bursary, covering up to 100% tuition for a Grade 10 student The Alan Brown Memorial Bursary One bursary, covering up to 50% of tuition for a Grade 8-12 Female student For more information please vist our website:

www.southridge.bc.ca

APPLICATION DEADLINE: JAN 30TH, 2015

Admissions ofﬁce 604.542.2345

www.southridge.bc.ca

| SOUTHRIDGE SCHOOL 2656 160th St. Surrey

B8 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2015

RICHMOND-NEWS.COM

University-Preparatory High School & Boarding School for Girls

r a o S

at QMS

Vancouver Island, BC

Canada

Call to schedule your campus tour! Home for the Weekend 5 Day Boarding Program 100% Post Secondary Acceptance Intensive Program for English Language Learners

admissions@qms.bc.ca | 250-746-4185