New Westminster Record April 20 2023

Property tax set to rise 6.4%

City councillors split on NewWest budget

TheresaMcManus

A vote on NewWestminster’s 2023 budget was split along party lines Monday night.

At a special council meeting on April 17, council voted 5-2 in favour of a five year financial plan bylaw that incorporates a 6 4 per cent property tax increase and a $173 2-million capital budget for 2023.

“We are making generational investments right now that our growing city really needs, and these are not inexpensive projects,” said Mayor Patrick Johnstone. “They are not easy projects but they are making us a stronger city”

Johnstone and councillors Ruby Campbell,Tasha Henderson, Jaimie McEvoy and Nadine Nakagawa, members

Continued on page 3

Man injured in daytime shooting

TheresaMcManus

tmcmanus@newwestrecord.ca

A man is being treated for nonlife-threatening injuries after a daytime shooting in downtown NewWestminsterTuesday.

Local police officers responded to a shooting in the 700-block of Carnarvon Street at about noon onTuesday, April 18, according to a press release from the New Westminster Police Department

“A man is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries, and two suspects are in police custody,” said the news release. “The major crime unit has since taken conduct of this investigation ” NewWestminster police are asking any witnesses who haven’t yet spoken to police to call major crime unit investigators at 604529-2430

Continued on page 8

craZy For you: Royal City Musical Theatre makes its long-awaited return to the stage with Crazy For You, starring Todd and Rabecca Talbot. It’s onstage at the Massey starting April 27. We spoke to the Talbots and to a New West performer who’s part of the show. See page 12. photo DaViD COOPeR/COuRtesy RCmt

SCHOOL’S OUT APRIL 24 AND MAY 19

Find programs to keep your children active on these coming non-instructional days, Monday, April 24, and Friday, May 19 Go to newwestcity.ca/register and search by Keyword “School’s Out” or browse a list at newwestcity.ca/rec

EARTH DAY IN NEW WESTMINSTER

April 22 is Earth Day and there are several nature and environment-related events and programs that you can take advantage of to reflect, learn, and participate this month. Get involved locally by becoming a tree steward or catch basin caretaker; attend a gallery exhibit or talk series; and kids and adults alike can learn in hands-on programming Learn more at newwestcity.ca/earth-day-2023

CITY-LED COMMUNITY CONSULTATION

COMMENT PERIOD: April 19 – May 10, 2023

Rezoning application for102-128 East Eighth Avenue and 721 Cumberland Street (REZ00204)

WHAT IS THE REZONING (REZ00204) ABOUT?

Rezoning and Development Permit applications have been received for 102-128 East Eighth Avenue and 721 Cumberland Street The proposed development includes 55 infill townhouse units with an overall floor space ratio (FSR) of 1.0 across eight buildings. The buildings would be oriented parallel to East Eighth Avenue on both sides of a central pedestrian courtyard. The development includes 93 off-street parking spaces (86 resident stalls and six visitor stalls within an underground parkade, and one loading stall off the lane). A total of 69 long-term bicycle storage spaces and six short-term bicycle spaces for visitors are also proposed.

The application proposes to rezone the properties from Single Detached Residential (RS-1) to Infill Townhouse and Rowhouse Residential (RT). The proposal is consistent with the site’s Residential – Ground Oriented Infill Housing (RGO) designation in the Official Community Plan Images of the proposed development are available on Be Heard New West This is the last opportunity for public comment on the updated proposal prior to the application being forwarded to Council for consideration.

HOW CAN I BE HEARD?

Complete the comment form and find detailed project information on the project webpage at: www.beheardnewwest.ca/cumberland-st

If you are unable to access the webpage, please contact the Planning Division: Phone: 604-527-4532

Email: devfeedback@newwestcityca

Mail: Climate Action, Planning and Development Department - Planning, 511 Royal Avenue, New Westminster, BC, V3L 1H9

Send your comments by end of day on May 10, 2023.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Friday, April 21

11:00 am

Walk with the Mayor for WALK30 Century House

Saturday, April 22

10:00 am

Port Royal Blackberry Knockout and Native Species Planting South end of Holly Street, Queensborough

Saturday, April 22

3:00 pm

Biospheres + Soundscapes New Media Gallery

YOUTH WEEK

Monday, April 24

6:00 pm

Public Hearing followed by City Council Meeting

Council Chamber, City Hall and online

Wednesday, April 26 5:00 pm

Walk with the Mayor for WALK30

Old Schoolhouse Park

Thursday, April 27 5:00 pm

Curl Mapped: Artist Talk and Opening Reception

Anvil Centre and online

Youth Week is an eagerly anticipated annual event held throughout BC during the first week of May, celebrating the remarkable contributions of young people to our communities. At the City of New Westminster, we're proud to be part of this provincewide celebration, recognizing the positive impact that our youth make all year round. Join us as we celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our youth and foster a vibrant, thriving community for all with fun and engaging events and activities all week: newwestyouth.ca/youthweek

DON’T GO HUNGRY: SPRING DONATION DRIVE

The City is supporting a donation drive this spring for the Don’t Go Hungry Food Program Every Saturday, this food hamper program serves 1,300 people in New Westminster and south Burnaby who can’t access weekday food programs due to work hours. Many of those accessing the program are new arrivals to Canada, and two-thirds are families, including over 400 children.

Donation bins will be available until May 31, 2023, at Anvil Centre and the Glenbrook and Queensborough Fire Halls. The following items are in high demand:

• Canned proteins: e.g. nut butters, canned meat (tuna, salmon, etc.), beans, and chili

• Chunky-style canned soup

• Children's snacks: e g applesauce, fruit cups, fruit gummies/bars, snack-size crackers or cookies, and granola bars

• Personal care products: e.g. toothpaste, shampoo/conditioner, feminine hygiene products, shaving cream and razors, toilet paper, diapers (especially size 5 and 6), deodorant, and soap

• Dish soap and laundry soap

For more information, visit newwestcity.ca/dgh-spring2023

Continued on page 4

UpFront

Police budget process needs a rethink: council

TheresaMcManus tmcmanus@newwestrecord ca

Should the NewWestminster Police Department’s budget be increased? Should it be cut?

It depends on who you ask

On Monday night, council heard from delegations regarding the City of NewWestminster’s 2023 budget During those discussions, two residents offered different takes about the city’s budget allocation to the police department

Debra Parkes, a NewWest resident and chair of the chair in feminist legal studies at the Peter A Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia, supported the overall budget but voiced concerns about the police budget She said

the city’s police budget is more than $37 million, which is the largest expenditure in the city

“As I understand it, there’s relatively limited transparency at the council level, and the opportunity to review and question police spending,” she said

“This, I think, is particularly concerning at a time when there’s much research and rising awareness of the need for communitybased alternatives to policing models to address safety and security, as well as mental health and wellness in our communities.

“I’d like to register my concern as a New West resident, as someone whose research addresses the failures of the criminal justice system to deliver on its promises of public safety and security for

all We could and should do much better in this regard ”

Longtime NewWest resident David Brett said he attended a November 2022 meeting between city council and the police board, where the police budget was thoroughly discussed

“There is a great deal of transparency in the police budget, I thought,” he said “A lot of things were covered in that ”

Brett believes the statistics presented by the police department as part of its 2023 budget proposal such as the number of officers working on the streets, the ratio of police officers to citizens and NewWestminster’s Crime Severity Index ranking demonstrate the need for an increase to the police budget. While he appreciates that council didn’t “pick apart and nitpick the police budget and send it back for a reduction” as it has done

in the past, he said he’d like the city to gear up to increase the NWPD’s budget next year.

As the parent of an adult child who has been homeless, mentally ill, addicted and living on the streets of NewWestminster for the better part of 20 years, he said he’s grateful for the work done by local police.

“My son overdosed 10 times in NewWestminster,

and many of those times he was revived by police officers,” he said. “So that’s my message: Let’s find more money starting now for next year.”

Process flawed?

Coun. Nadine Nakagawa supported the budget but expressed concern about the process related to approving the police department’s budget.

She doesn’t think it makes sense to discuss that department’s budget in isolation from the rest of the budget.

“I also think that a process of real transparent dialogue needs to start now,” she said “We need to start talking with the police board now about the budget for 2024 ”

Nakagawa said she’ll soon be bringing a motion to council asking that the police board engage in dialogue with council as soon as possible about its next budget

“I don’t support the way that we do police budgets,” she said “So this is a no for me about the police budget, but it’s a yes overall for the larger budget ”

Coun Tasha Henderson also believes there’s a need for more dialogue and transparency in the process

Coun Daniel Fontaine said he supports the

Continued on page 8

Council, residents split on budget with 6.4% tax hike

of Community First New West, supported the budget, while NewWest Progressive councillors Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas opposed it

Council members supporting the budget said the proposed tax increase takes into account the priorities expressed by many community members on issues such as the need to invest in the city’s infrastructure, affordable housing, climate action and downtown livability Councillors opposing

the budget bylaw said a 6.4 per cent increase is too rich for taxpayers at a time when many residents and businesses are struggling.

“This is not, in my view, a budget of this entire council. It is a budget of a portion of this council and does not reflect the desires, the vision and goals of every single member of this council,” Fontaine said. “And, as a result of that, I am going to struggle with that, and I will not be able to support it.”

Before voting on the bylaw, council gave commu-

nity members an opportunity to share their thoughts on the 2023 to 2027 financial plan.

At Monday’s meeting, 12 residents provided input on the budget, with eight in support.

They said it reflects the values that are important to the community, such as addressing the needs of the city’s most vulnerable citizens and supporting the Seven Bold Steps on climate action previously endorsed by council.

“The 6.4 per cent increase in property taxes is

fairly modestly compared to a lot of our other neighbors in MetroVancouver,” resident Rohan Singh said to grumbles from some in council chambers

“Quite frankly, I’m surprised it’s not higher. It could be argued that the city should be doing more. We should be building more housing.We should be offering better services to those that are least able to access things that those of us who are comfortably housed can get.

“We need more active transportation, we need to

keep the most vulnerable in our city safe To do all of this need, we to start paying today for the city that we want to see tomorrow”

Four residents expressed concerns about various aspects of the budget, including the need for more police funding (see related story above) and the impact that a 6 4 per cent property tax increase would have on residents with low incomes or on fixed incomes.

After hearing from delegations, Fontaine proposed an amendment to the mo-

tion that council give three reading to the financial plan bylaw but amend one of the attachments to the bylaw to adjust revenues and reduce the city’s projected surplus by approximately $1 million, such that it would produce a 5 4 per cent property tax increase in 2023

In a 5-2 vote, council rejected the amendment, with Johnstone saying the city doesn’t have a surplus

The city is required to adopt a five-year financial plan bylaw before May 15

bottom line: The New Westminster Police Department budget has once again become the subject of debate at the city council table. photo Julie Maclellan

Continued from page 1

nadine nakagawa city councillor

FILM IN A DAY (INTERGENERATIONAL: 7-12 AND 50+ YEARS)

Tell your story, all in one day! Explore the world of film and all its narrative possibilities. Learn about the filmmaking process from script-writing to film recording and editing Use software to edit your film and add special effects. This full-day program is held at Century House and has a 30-min scheduled lunch break Caregiver (50+ years) participation is required; please register only the child. The registration fee is $85.00/ child. Register online at newwestcity.ca/register for either of the following:

• Monday, April 24, 9:15 am - 4:00 pm (ID# 174301)

• Friday, May 19, 9:15 am – 4:00 pm (ID# 174303)

RED DRESS CAMPAIGN – DONATION COLLECTION

Red Dress Day on May 5 honours the memory and lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit people across Canada and the US. As part of the Red Dress Campaign in May, the City will be creating a display of red dresses around the community. In advance of this, we are holding a donation drive April 12 – 27 to collect adult-sized red dresses (no logos please). Dresses can be dropped off at the front desk of the following locations: Anvil Centre, Centennial Community Centre, Century House, City Hall, Fire Hall #1, the Police Station, the Public Library Main Branch, Queensborough Community Centre, and Queen’s Park Arena.

NOTICE OF DISPOSITION OF LAND

Whereas the City Council of the Corporation of the City of New Westminster wishes to lease 4100 sq. m. (more or less) area of land, described as 710 Eighth Street, New Westminster, BC, and which land is not available to the public for acquisition; therefore, the Corporation of the City of New Westminster hereby gives notice subject to Section 26(3) and 94 of the Community Charter:

(a) The land is more particularly described as: Parcel Identifier: 014-891-620

Legal Description: THAT PORTION MARKED "MOODY SQUARE" PLAN 2620

(b) The City proposes to lease the above described property to: New Westminster Lawn Bowling Club

(c) The nature of the disposition: 1 year lease from February 28, 2023 to March 1, 2024

(d) The consideration for which the Purchaser shall pay to the city: The sum of $30 00

For more information concerning this lease, please contact:

Christy Mereigh, Manager, Strategic Projects 604-527-4502

THE LATEST NEWS AND EVENTS IN OUR CITY

CITY SMALL GRANT OPPORTUNITY

Last chance! MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2023 is the deadline to apply for the City’s One-Time Small Grant Reminder this is the ONLY intake this year Visit newwestcity.ca/grants for more details Questions? Please contact grants@newwestcityca.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2023 AT 6:00 PM

Meeting held electronically and open to public attendance in Council Chamber, City Hall

Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 8374, 2023 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8375, 2023, for 102/104 Eighth Avenue and 728 First Street

Official Community Plan (OCP) Amendment, Rezoning and Development Permit applications have been received which propose construction of 10 sideby-side infill townhouse units across two buildings. All of the proposed units would be family-friendly, contain three bedrooms, and be stratified. A total of 11 off-street parking spaces are proposed, in accordance with Zoning Bylaw requirements. The OCP amendment would change the land use designation from Residential – Detached and Semi-Detached Housing to Residential –

Ground Oriented Infill Housing The site would be rezoned from Single Detached Residential Districts (RS-1) to the site-specific Comprehensive Development District (102/104 Eighth Avenue & 728 First Street) (CD-100) zone.

HOW CAN I BE HEARD?

• Written submissions by email, post, or dropping off at the mailbox on the north side of City Hall are welcome and encouraged.

• Speak at the meeting by computer, smart device or phone via Zoom:

1. Computer, Smartphone or Tablet: go to www.newwestcity.ca/council, and click or tap the Meeting ID button 686 8875 2527

2 Phone: Call 778-907-2071. Enter Meeting ID: 686 8875 2527, followed by #

• Speak in person at the meeting A mask is recommended.

Starting at 8:30 am on April 13, 2023, register online at speakers.newwestcity.ca, or contact Legislative Services to register to speak: Phone: 604-527-4523 Legislative Services Department, Email: clerks@newwestcityca 511 Royal Avenue, New Westminster, BC V3L 1H9

HOW DO I GET MORE INFORMATION?

From April 13 to April 24, 2023, the proposed bylaw and related material are available for inspection at Legislative Services, City Hall 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday, and online at: newwestcity.ca/publicnotices

Lisa Spitale Acting Corporate Officer

Written comments received by 5:00 pm, three business days before the meeting will be included in the agenda package Later comments received until the close of the hearing will be distributed on table at the meeting. All comments are published.

Lisa Spitale, Acting Corporate Officer

Video cameras, vape detectors installed at NWSS

Technology installed at the high school over March break is part of the school district’s response to concerns over safety

JulieMacLellan

jmaclellan@newwestrecord.ca

New surveillance cameras and washroom vape detectors have been installed at NewWestminster Secondary School in response to concerns about safety.

Video surveillance cameras were installed on the second and third floors of NWSS over March break.

“NewWestminster Secondary School, we know, has had its share of safety concerns,” Matt Brito, School District 40’s director of facilities and operations, told school trustees at their operations committee meeting on April

11 “And we feel that we have installed some key tools to create a safer environment ”

Along with the new surveillance cameras on upper levels, the district also installed another camera on the main floor to cover an area where there had been a blind spot

It also installed vape detectors in the gender-neutral washrooms on the school’s main floor The detectors set off a blue light and automatically send an email to administration when vaping is detected or when the detector is tampered with, Brito noted

He told trustees the sen-

sitivity level of the detectors has been adjusted to ensure it’s “not going off every minute,” adding the detectors can still be finetuned as the school deals with them

Brito told trustees he feels the detectors have already curbed some vaping in the washrooms but noted the district will continue to communicate with NWSS staff about them

A third major project was the installation of classroom phones, enabling teachers to call out to administration whenever needed. Previously, the system only allowed the school office to initiate calls to classrooms and not

the other way around

The new measures are part of SD40’s response to months of concerns over safety at the high school, which came to a head af-

ter a series of dangerous incidents at the school in the fall including pepper-spraying, firecrackers and a washroom fire.

Another washroom fire

raised discussion again in February

Got ideas about safety at NWSS? Send a letter to the editor. Email us at editorial @newwestrecord.ca.

Spring Special no GST (confirmed before April 30)

•

weeKLY oNLINe PoLL

premier’s role Opinion

hen David Eby assumed the office of B C premier there was speculation in some quarters that he would push the BC NDP government onto a more “activist” footing.

W

In fact, it can be argued that the removal of the homeless encampment on Hastings Street done with the full backing of the Eby government shows what a 180-degree turn Eby has done on that issue alone Back when he was an activist lawyer working for the Pivot Legal Society, it would have been almost impossible to envision Eby supporting the forced removal of that encampment

However, Eby has been clear for quite a while that he wanted that encampment to be gone. He viewed it as an increasingly unsafe place, where fires and sexual assaults took place, along with other criminal activities If that position clashes with the old activist crowd, so be it, he says.

But more than 140 days into the job, there is little sign of that kind of activism being deployed on any frontEby’s government is committed to building more shelters and permanent housing for the homeless, but critics say progress is not being made quickly enough

It is not just supporting the dismantling of housing encampments that separates Eby from the activist past.

Pushed by circumstances, the Eby government is pushing for a tougher approach on crime Forget activism that

demands things like “defund the police,” this government wants more police, more prosecutors and tougher judges.

Eby also favours involuntary care in limited circumstances for people who are having a mental health crisis and pose a threat to others. One of his former employers, the B C Civil Liberties Association, opposes such a policy.

The first indication that David Eby in government was going to be different than the David Eby in Opposition came when the BC NDP government decided to finish the construction of the Site C dam Eby was in that provincial cabinet that made the decision, even though the party opposed the project while in Opposition

And now Eby is backing liquefied

natural gas (LNG) projects, even though climate activists ardently oppose them He recently was part of the ceremony announcing provincial approval of the Haisla First Nation’s Cedar LNG project.

Nevertheless, as he approaches the six-month point of his time in office, the evidence is mounting that Premier David Eby is a decidedly different politician than the one on view during four years in Opposition and his years as an activist lawyer before then

If Eby can continue to govern from the middle, where most voters gather, he will be a tough leader to beat when the 2024 election rolls around

Keith Baldrey is chief political reporter for Global BC

CONTACT US 201A - 3430 Brighton Avenue, Burnaby, V5A 3H4 | General Inquiries: 604 444 3451 | newwestrecord.ca The New Westminster Record

LMP Publication

Lara

Graham REGIONAL PubLIshER lgraham@glaciermedia.ca

Magnison REGIONAL sALEs D RECTOR vimagnison@glaciermedia ca

for additional information.

Limited

The Record is the winner of the 2019 Ma Murray General Excellence Award in its circulation category The Record won the same award in 2018 and 2015, and is the recipient of multiple blue ribbons for excellence from the Canadian Community Newspapers Association 6 THURSDAY April 20 2023 • New West Record

‘Old-timers’need to stop gatekeeping NewWest

Editor: Several recent letters published by the Record about the “concrete jungle” indicated how long their writers have lived here, and for more than a few, it’s been years and years. And I’m disappointed

I’m disappointed that these old-timers, these people who live in million-dollar homes that they bought for a song decades ago, have the temerity to gatekeep this city.

We’re looking at an affordability crisis The condos that are going up are already too expensive, yet people want, what? More single-family homes for millionaires to buy while the middle class goes without?

The people who don’t want more people to live in this great city need a reality check.

I wasn’t born or raised in New West My partner and I moved here and decided this was where we wanted to raise a family.

We live in a tower We go for walks at the

Quay, we hang out at the River Market We walk up and down Columbia, we venture uptown, we visit all the local parks We’re community members, and we consider New West our home

We have just as much a right to this city as anyone else. I, for one, welcome more neighbours and more people to live, work, and play in this great city. And if you don’t like highrises and more sustainable, more affordable housing, you can always leave

James Plett

Life in the concrete jungle

Editor: I used to live on Keary Street for many years Traffic 30 years ago was a mess, and now it’s even worse with the highrise apartments.

What once was a beautiful city is now a concrete jungle. When council is done building all the highrises, what will you do with all the traffic?

Eva Spence

The New wesTmiNsTer record welcomes leTTers To The ediTor. We edit for taste, legality and length Please include a contact phone number Send letters to: The editor, #201A–3430 Brighton Ave., Burnaby,

Shooting investigation ‘ in early stages’

Continued from page 1

“Our major crime unit is in the very early stages of this investigation,” Hailey Finnigan, the New Westminster Police Department’s strategic communications coordinator,

said in a statement to the Record. “At the moment, they’re interviewing witnesses and canvassing for CCTV footage.”

According to the press release, the incident resulted in a large police

presence at the Royal Columbian Hospital.

“While the shooting did occur on Carnarvon Street, patrol officers fanned out into other neighbourhoods in order to apprehend the suspects

connected to this incident,” Finnigan said.

The Record was continuing to look for information on this story at press time. See www newwestrecord ca for the latest updates as they become available.

Policebudgetprocess needsrevision:council

Continued from page 3

dollars in the budget that are going to the police department.

“They put themselves on the line every single day.

… Our police deserve our respect,” he said. “And our police deserve the funding to make sure that they have the necessary resources to make sure that we can prevent crime on the street and behind closed doors when it happens to individuals.”

Police board weighs in

Former city councillor MaryTrentadue, one of two new police board members attending their first meeting on April 18, asked for a high-level description of the police budget process.

Jacqueline Dairon, manager of finance services for the NewWestminster Police Department, said she reviews the budget all year long and begins the process of building the following year’s budget in May or June when she brings that information to the board and the NWPD’s senior management team

“June and July, we’re kind of discussing where we think we need to go Then September is another big month, where we sort of take all of the feed-

back from June and July, and in September, I do another report out,” she said. “And then October, usually is when we do our big joint report with council as well.”

Chief Const. Dave Jansen said the police board is statutorily required (by the Police Act) to approve a provisional budget by Nov. 30. He said changes can only be made until March 15.

Johnstone said having council and the police board work together earlier in the process would ensure budget conversations aren’t be happening in October when the police board is under pressure to complete its provisional budget

Jansen said he supports efforts to have better discussions between city council and the police board, with the police department providing any support that’s needed

“That’s really how it should be, right?” he told the board “I mean, this is your budget: you’re running the police department in regards to setting the budget and the priorities and the goals and the objectives We’re there to support you on that So, I think we’re getting closer and closer to where I think we all want to get to”

City

Ready to swim? Moody Park Outdoor Pool opens Saturday

TheresaMcManus tmcmanus@newwestrecord.ca

No need to jet off to a tropical destination to enjoy a dip in a balmy 27 C pool when you can head to Moody Park Outdoor pool.

The outdoor pool in Moody Park will be opening on Saturday, April 22, and will remain open until Oct. 1.

“Last weekend the whole aquatic team was up at Moody Park Pool for the yearly in-service training,” said StephanieTrasolini, manager of recreation services and facilities təməsewtxʷ Aquatic and Community Centre. “The staff are all very excited to be back for another ex-

tended outdoor pool season and looking forward to seeing the community back in the facility on Saturday, April 22, our opening day”

Trasolini said the pool operations and facilities team has been hard at working getting Moody Park Outdoor Pool ready for opening day

“The exterior of the building has a fresh coat of paint and a refreshed look for the 2023 extended outdoor pool season,” she said “Two large tents have been set up on deck to provide covered areas for our users and the water is heated to 27 degrees Celsius to ensure a comfortable swim in the cooler season ”

In March, staff updated city council about the “hybrid” approach being taken at Moody Park and Hume Park outdoor pools this year, with a continuation of the reserved system for those who want a guaranteed swimming spot (something introduced because of COVID) and the addition of 20 per cent of swim spaces for drop-in visitors Staff also told council that approach could be tweaked if needed as the season unfolds

According to the city, swim sessions are 1 5 hours in length and include leisure swimming, lane swimming and Aquafit. Change rooms and lockers are available for use.

Reservations are highly recommended as there will be limited drop-in spaces available each session

Reservations are available three days in advance for NewWestminster residents, and two days in ad-

vance for everyone

The City of NewWestminster expects to announce details for Hume Park Outdoor Pool in early May

Admission to the outdoor pool is free for lit-

tle ones aged zero to three and $2 for four and up. Aquafit costs $4.75 for 13 to 18 years, $6.85 for 19 to 64 years and $5 for 65 and older.

See newwestcity.ca/ outdoor-pools.

Moody Park Pool is opening from April 22 - October 1, 2023. The pool will be heated and set to 27-28 degrees Celsius to ensure comfort while swimming in the cooler season. Sessions are 1.5 hours in length and include leisure swimming, lane swimming, and Aquafit. Change rooms and lockers are available for use. Details for Hume Park Outdoor Pool are anticipated to be announced in May

Reservations are highly recommended as there will be limited drop-in spaces available each session. Reservations are available 3 days in advance for New Westminster residents, and 2 days in advance for everyone Pool admission fees are as follows:

For more information and to book a swimming session call 604-777-5100 or visit: newwestcity.ca/outdoor-pools

Take a dip: The Moody Park Outdoor Pool is set to open for the season this

22 It’s heated to a temperature of 27 C photo ciTy of new wesTminsTer

Don’t miss these weekend events & activities!

FRIDAY, APRIL 21

AND sATURDAY, APRIL 22

ANTIQUES SHOW

If you are someone who finds beauty in objects from the past like LP records, vintage advertising tins and signs, radios, sports memorabilia, old comics, coins, stamps and more know that a big antiques show is coming to the city this weekend Organized by Fraser Valley Antiques & Collectibles Club, the 28th annual Antiques & Collectibles Show at Queen’s Park Arena (corner of First Street andThird Avenue) will have more than 200 tables set up with all things vintage A regular admission ticket of $5 will allow you entry to the show on Saturday; an early admission ticket priced at $20 will allow you a two-day pass for Friday, between 5 and 9 p m , and Saturday

WHEN: Friday, April 21, 5 to 9 p.m., and Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m..

WHERE: Queen’s Park Arena

INFO: fvacc.ca

sATURDAY, APRIL 22

EARTH AND SOUND

Sound can be a measure of environmental health if we know how to listen. If that piqued your interest, register for a series of talks at the New Media Gallery and get to know all about a project called the Biosphere Soundscapes that focuses on acoustic ecology a field of study that explores the relationship between humans and environment through sound; and about the UNESCO-recognized Átl’ka7tsem / Howe Sound Biosphere inVancouver, which is one of the 669 biospheres in the world that strive towards sustainable development through innovative approaches

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 3 to 4:30 p.m.

WHERE: On Zoom or in person at Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia St., Room 417.

INFO: Check out www.newmediagallery.ca/ biospheres-soundscapes.

POLLINATOR PARTY

Did you know that this is one of the busiest seasons for bats, butterflies and hummingbirds? Join Fraser River Discovery Centre’s (788 Quayside Dr ) Pollinator Party to find out what are all the local pollinator species and how they help plants in the Fraser River Basin grow fruits and seeds While you’re there, try your hand at decorating a mini pollinator pond yourself The event is between 10 a m and 4 p m , and priced at $15 for a family (two adults and up to four children), $6 for an adult, $5 for students and 65+, and $3 for children between three and 12 years of age

WHERE AND WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

INFO: www.fraserriverdiscovery.org

ONGOING TO APRIL 30

TRAVEL INTO SUBCONSCIOUS

What does our inner world look like? How do we perceive the outer world that surrounds us? Artist Vladimir Kolosov’s abstract art explores these topics, and attempts to “reflect on the universe of our being and beyond,” as per the artist’s description, in his new show What may seem like mind-boggling topics are represented through a simple yet striking combination of colours and forms in Kolosov’s works

Check them out at the Gallery at Queen’s Park in Centennial Lodge, betweenWednesdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., till April 30. Entry is free for all

WHEN: To April 30, open Wednesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

INFO: Admission is free; donations accepted. See www.acnw.ca/galleryexhibit. For more on Kolosov, check out his website at artofvk.com.

SHORELINE CLEANUP

This year, do your part to save the city’s parks and shoreline Join the Port Royal Spring Blackberry Knockout, an event organized by the Queensborough Special Programs Committee to honour Earth Day, by cleaning up the shoreline.The annual event aims to improve the biodiversity and enhance the native shoreline habitat along a popular nature trail in Queensborough. The event starts at 10 a m at the south end of Holly Street (near Salter Street) in Port Royal.

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, starting at 10 a.m.

WHERE: Start at the south end of Holly Street.

INFO: www.facebook.com/QSPC.org

– compiled by Naveena Vijayan

PHOTO: Courtesy Arts Council of New Westminster Work by Vladimir Kolosov is on display at the Gallery at Queen’s Park until April 30

Arts & Entertainment CrazyForYou set to open — three years later

The Royal City MusicalTheatre production was sidelined by COVID in 2020.Now,at last,it’s almost opening night

JulieMacLellan jmaclellan@newwestrecord ca

There are some drawbacks to being the parents of a tween and young teen when you’re musical theatre performers like the fact that your kids can memorize the lyrics to your songs faster than you can and that they’ll delight in pointing out when you get your lines wrong.

But it’s all in day’s work forTodd and RabeccaTal-

bot as the musical theatre couple gets set to star in Royal City MusicalTheatre’s Crazy ForYou The show plays at MasseyTheatre April 27 to May 14

Todd stars as Bobby Child, the banker with a secret wish to sing and dance, while Rabecca is his love interest, the postmistress-turned-performer Polly Baker, in the musical featuring the songs of George and Ira Gershwin

For the couple that met

while performing together in the Arts Club production of West Side Story two decades ago, there’s a particular delight in coming back to the stage together now that they’re in their 40s

“The transformation from being parents getting a Grade 6 and a Grade 8 kid out the door for school in the morning to being a young, loving couple onstage is ”Todd starts

“Seamless!” interjects Rabecca in the background (they’re in the car on the way to an appointment as they speak)

“We need the drive from Vancouver to NewWest in order to transform our energies from one to the other,”Todd finishes with a laugh

Once they step onto the stage for rehearsal, though?They’re on.

“Not to be too dramatic about it, but I think it’s been good for our relationship, because, you know, you need to be having a certain level of fun to pull off this material,”Todd says. “And sometimes it’s hard to find that space to have fun together as a couple, and so this way, we’re

mandated to do it.”

He laughs, but he’s quick to add they make a good professional partnership. He counts on Rabecca “a shameless plug for my wife; she sings this music beautifully” to offer feedback on his musical performance, and they can trust each other implicitly in the dance numbers.

Mind you, that doesn’t mean it’s easy work.

BothTalbots got serious

in January about getting into top shape for their roles

“This show is super demanding,”Todd says Bobby Child has been a bucket-list role since he saw the originalWest End production of the musical when he was at theatre school in London in the 1990s To do it justice means he’s calling on all his triple-threat skills in acting, singing and dancing

“You need to be able to handle the comedy of

it, the romantic elements, and then on top of that be able to manage the technical elements of not only dancing, but you add a specialized skill of tap dancing on top of that, and then handling the beautiful music of Gershwin, and some of it’s complicated music as well,”

Todd points out Getting a chance to step into the role is perhaps even sweeter because this particular show has been so long in coming

Continued on page 13

Romance: Rabecca and Todd Talbot star in the Royal City Musical Theatre production of Crazy For You, onstage at Massey Theatre April 27 to May 14. photo david cooper/courtesy rcMt

Arts & Entertainment

New West actor ‘just giddy’ over return to the stage

Continued from page 12

The RCMT production of Crazy ForYou was just about to open back in March of 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

“No one could have predicted that we would have been shockingly shut down so quickly,”Todd says, noting there was a definite disappointment in having put into all that effort and then not being able to share the show

Now, finally, that moment has come

A good chunk of the original cast is back this time out including NewWestminster’s Kailley Roesler, who appears as Patsy She graduated from Capilano University’s musical theatre pro-

gram in 2020, during the pandemic, shortly after she should have been in Crazy ForYou the first time

“It was really a devastating blow,” she recalls

“Honestly, there was a point in time when I thought that we wouldn’t get to do it again That was months of hard work and rehearsals that kind of felt like going down the drain for a little bit So when I got the call that we had the chance to put it on again, I was just giddy, just giggling ” Roesler works in set decoration in the film in-

dustry by day and also teaches atThe Stage MusicalTheatre Academy in NewWest But performing especially dance, which she’s been studying since the age of two-and-ahalf will always be near and dear to her heart, she says She has embraced the chance to be part of the “really fantastic” Crazy ForYou cast once again

“I definitely felt a little bit rusty going into it after several years off, but it’s amazing how muscle memory works,” she says “We’re just so excited to share it with folks af-

ter so many years, and we hope everybody comes out to support some awesome Gershwin music and awesome tap dancing and storytelling ”

The performers are hoping audiences will be ready to embrace live performance again and to experience the special connection it creates between those onstage and those watching from the seats

“That synergy between onstage and audience is a super unique dynamic that I miss, having stepped away for so many years to do television,” saysTodd, who’ll be recognized by many as the co-host of Love It Or List ItVancouver “You just don’t get that feedback You know, peo-

Onstage

What: Crazy For You, presented by Royal City Musical Theatre

Where and when: Massey Theatre, 735 Eighth Ave., April 27 to May 14

Tickets: $29/$37/$45

Book online through www ticketsnw ca or see www royalcitymusicaltheatre com for information.

ple on the street stop you and say, ‘Hey, I like your show,’ and that’s nice, but you don’t get that immediacy

“There’s an addictive quality to it, I think, where you get that immediate feedback, and it’s a shared

experience, and it’s rare to find that ”

Roesler agrees

“Having a large crowd like the ones that we get at MasseyTheatre, there’s a certain kind of exchange, like an energy exchange, while you’re performing onstage,” she says “So not only are you presenting outwards to them, but you’re also receiving a lot from them as well, in terms of not just applause but the laughter and the gasps and the tears sometimes. And there’s just that really beautiful exchange that, if you tune into it while performing, you can really feel it from those who are watching you. … “It’s just a lot of beautiful give and take.”

Kailley Roesler performer

What dental hygiene does for overall health

Brushing and flossing your teeth may save you extra sessions in the dentist’s chair each year, but the benefits of dental hygiene do not end with pearly whites. In fact, there’s a direct correlation between oral hygiene and overall health.Oral health offers clues about overall health, advises the Mayo Clinic. When a dentist or hygienist checks a person’s mouth, he or she is getting a window into that person’s overall wellness including if something is amiss. Dental hygiene matters because, without proper brushing and flossing, bacteria in the mouth can grow unchecked. Over time, that bacteria can infiltrate and break down the soft tissues in the gums and teeth, eventually leading to decay and gum disease. Greenwood Dental Care in Illinois states that the bacteria from the mouth could travel into the bloodstream and elsewhere, causing a host of issues.There’s a high correlation between an unhealthy mouth and systemic diseases. The United Kingdom-based dental group Fulham Road Dental indicates that gum disease is linked to heart problems, kidney diseases and certain types of cancer Dentists

who notice problems in their patients’ mouths may be able to predict potential illnesses elsewhere in the body, advising those patients to seek consultations with other healthcare providers.Here’s a deeper look at some of the correlations between oral health and overall health, courtesy of the Mayo Clinic.• Endocarditis: When bacteria or other germs from the mouth or another part of the body spread through the bloodstream, they can attach to certain areas of the heart. This causes an infection in the inner lining of the heart chambers or valves.• Pregnancy and birth complications: Periodontitis has been linked to low birth weight and premature birth.• Cardiovascular disease: While it’s not fully understood why, clogged arteries, stroke and heart disease may be linked to inflammation and infection caused by oral bacteria.• Pneumonia: Bacteria in the mouth may be pulled into the lungs, where it can lead to respiratory illness, such as pneumonia. It’s a two-way street

with health and the mouth. Certain diseases can lead to issues in the mouth. Those with osteoporosis may have weakened periodontal bone and tooth loss; and research has shown that diabetes puts gum health at risk.Individuals should make oral health a priority, as it has a significant effect on their overall health and well-being.

IS NATIONAL ORAL HEALTH MONTH

The hows and whys of bad breath

Anyone who bites into a big chunk of garlic bread knows that less-than-fresh breath is a likely outcome of such an indulgence. But for some people, halitosis, otherwise known as bad breath, is something they regularly confront regardless of what they eat.Functional dentist Dr Steven Lin indicates around 50 million people suffer from chronic bad breath. Halitosis often is a highly preventable condition, provided an individual can discover the root of the issue, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. It’s important to note that while halitosis may be an oral condition, it also may be indicative of other health problems. That’s why it is vital to determine what’s behind bad breath.

• Poor oral hygiene: Bacteria reside in the mouth on the teeth, tongue, and other tissues. Failing to floss and brush regularly may lead to increased bacteria growth, resulting in bad breath. Poor oral hygiene may lead to gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, which also can exacerbate bad breath.

• Dry mouth: When dry mouth, or xerostomia, occurs, salivary glands cannot make enough saliva to keep the mouth moist, states Harvard Health.

Saliva helps flush away bacteria and food particles. Without saliva to wash them away, bacteria and debris can start to break down, leading to odor Certain medications may cause dry mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum and using dry mouth aids can help moisten the mouth.

• Food: Certain foods are linked to bad breath. Notably, garlic, onions and some spices are absorbed into the bloodstream and have the potential to affect breath until they leave

the system. • Dirty dentures: False teeth, such as dentures and bridges, can collect bacteria, food and fungi if not properly cleaned. Improper cleaning can contribute to bad breath. • Tobacco products: Tobacco can cause unpleasant mouth odors, says the Mayo Clinic. Smokers and oral tobacco users also are likely to have gum disease, which contributes to bad breath. • Sleeping with mouth open: Like other causes of dry mouth, sleeping with one’s mouth open dries out the mouth and can lead to what’s often referred to as “morning breath.” • Sinus illnesses or infections: Small stones covered in bacteria can form in the tonsils and produce odor Infections, chronic inflammation of the nose, throat or sinuses can contribute to postnasal drip, which also causes bad breath.Anyone with concerns about chronic bad breath should speak to his or her dentist about their condition. If the cause cannot be traced to oral hygiene, an individual may be referred to a general physician for a physical to rule out other issues.

Belmont

Straight teeth are healthier teeth

When your teeth are properly aligned, the health benefits are clear Healthier Gums

It’s easier to brush and floss around properly aligned teeth, and you are less likely to have pockets between gums and teeth that trap bacteria.

Improved Hygiene

Properly aligned teeth reduce plaque retention, tooth decay, and the risk of gum disease.1

Less Wear and Trauma

Aligned teeth reduce the risk of tooth Chipping, breaking, and wear, which can require expensive procedures to repair Proper alignment also reduces stress on the jawbone and j joints. Ask your dental hygienist to learn more about oral health.

Miss New Westminster 2023 crowned at Saturday gala

Jadyn Gibson was crowned Miss NewWestminster 2023 on Saturday night at the first live Hyack Ambassador gala in three years.

The gala returned to the Laura C MuirTheatre at Douglas College on Saturday night with an audience of guests from around the province The event the first gala since the COVID-19 pandemic cancelled live festivities in 2020 saw seven young women installed as Hyack Ambassadors

Jadyn Gibson, sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of NewWestminster, was awarded the title of Miss NewWestminster 2023 She earned the top Hyack Festival Association scholarship of $5,000 and also won the competition’s Essay Award of $500 Janel Falbo, sponsored by Ippolita Corcione, Realtor, was awarded with the title of Hyack Princess 2023 and a $3,000 Hyack Festival Association scholarship, plus the $500 Knowledge Award

Other awards:

w Miss Friendship: Ella Pitkin, voted by fellow teammates, won $500

w Bernie Legge Award: Sienna Ziemlanski won $500

wTop Communicator: Eshnoor Cheema won $500

w Bill Brown Memorial Award: Sophie Duprey-Steinman won $500 for her personal ballet presentation

w People’s Choice Award: Nikka Patel won the People’s Choice Award and the Alumni Award of

$500.

Each Hyack Ambassador also received a $2,000 Hyack Festival Association scholarship

The Hyack AmbassadorYouth Leadership Program and Miss NewWestminster title have been a Royal City tradition for more than 60 years, a press release noted

The ambassadors will represent NewWest around B C and the Pacific Northwest, as well as continuing volunteer work and charity fundraising

Ambassador: Jadyn Gibson was crowned Miss New Westminster 2023 during the Hyack Ambassador gala Saturday night the first live event in three years photo lydiA nAgAi photogrAphy

Your Community

REMEMBRANCES

Obituaries

Obituaries

In Loving Memory of KURBIS, Doris Ann (Anctil)

June 20, 1936 - December 13, 2022

Doris completed her long-life journey, fought well and hard over her last months She drew a last gentle breath at 1:40 a m on December 13, 2022 in the Palliative Care Unit at Burnaby General Hospital

Doris was predeceased by her dear husband of sixty-one years John, in 2015. Doris is survived by her son Paul, daughters Marcia, Sandra (Bernie), grandchildren Zoe (Quinn), Morgan (Lauren), great grandchildren Ever, Ira and Oliver, sister Denise, sister-in-law Loretta, brother- in- law Ernie, as well as many nieces and nephews, and a few great, great nieces and nephews

Doris leaves many treasured memories with those who knew her through her work and many, many volunteer activities in and around the Burnaby community, most recently at the Confederation Senior’s Centre lunch program, where she was known as the“hug”greeter

Doris’s family would like to extend their deep gratitude to family, friends, and health professionals for the loving care Doris received over the last months of her life

“When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight”

Kahlil Gibran.

Donations in Doris’s memory may be made to her favourite char ties B C Children’s Hospital Foundation, Burnaby Hospital Foundation or Canuck Place Children’s Hospice

We welcome Family and Friends to join us for a Celebration of Doris’s Life on Saturday May 6th, drop-in between 3 00pm and 7:00pm

Please join us at Caffe Artigiano 4359 Hastings St , Burnaby

ROEMER, Claudette Estella

October 6, 1935 - April 13, 2023

Mom passed away peacefully at Cedar Hill Care Center in Langley, with family by her side

Claudette was born in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan Creston BC is where she met our Dad, Donald, and they married on January 22 1955 They raised our family in Riondel, BC a small mining community in the Kootenays until the mine shut down in 1972 and they moved to “the coast”, settling in New Westminster

She is survived by her 4 children; Kim (Glenn), Donna (Allan), Greg (Susan) and Diana (Israel); 8 grandchildren; Lynda, Jason (Nicole), Cheryl (Matt), Ashley (Uche), Adam, Diego, Alexis and Jesse; 6 great-grandchildren; Rosie, Elijah, Nevaeh, Jacob, Samantha and Chinelo and 3 grand-puppies Cali, Chloe and Wilbur She is predeceased by our Dad (in 2005), her loving husband and high school sweetheart, Donald (Don), with whom she celebrated 50 years of marriage; her parents, brother Starleigh and infant sister

Mom (Granny) was a sweet little lady with a spunk and a fire inside that took everyone that met her by surprise She was happiest when she was with her family Everywhere she went she made wonderful friendships Together with our Dad she gave us a happy, fun and memorable childhood and supported and encouraged us throughout our lives It was our pleasure and honour to return the favour, spending time with her, loving her and caring for her after our Dad passed away and as she grew older

We would like to extend our sincere thank you and appreciation to the caring and compassionate staff at Cedar Hill Center She also received excellent care from the kind staff at Chartwell Langley Gardens and ChartwellWillow

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date RestinpeaceMom. Weloveyou!

dtjames@glaciermedia.ca •

Obituaries

LEGREE, Shirley (McIlroy)

October 9, 1936 - March 30, 2023

Shirley peacefully passed away with her husband Bud by her side She will be deeply missed by Bud her sons Mike (Robin), Todd and Budd (Julie), her grandsons Brandon and Colton and her many nieces and nephews Shirley will also be missed by the community of lifelong friends that supported her and the family during her brief illness

By request no service will be held To leave messages of condolence, please see DignityMemorial com

LEGAL

leGal/publiC notiCes

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that on April 21st, 2023, U-Lock Mini Storage, 4240 Manor St, Burnaby, V5G 1B2, will sell the contents of the lockers listed below:

Unit #0075 - NakeeranThanabalasingam

Unit #1067 - Nicholas Horlacher

Unit #2045 - Stephanie Buck

Unit #3812 - Kelly Oda

Unit #3168- Gabriel Agbokou

These lockers will be put for auction via: iBid4storage com on the 21st of April 2023

EMPLOYMENT

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GARDENERTO work with me in ma ntaining my flower garden Coquit am Pls call 604-492-2810

MARKETPLACE

art & ColleCtibles

PETS

WANTED:

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GuaranteedWorkmanship Mike • 778-835-3161

ConCrete

We do ALL kinds of ConcreteWork.

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CASH for your CLUTTER

I will pay CASH for your UNWANTED ITEMS!

I specia ize in RECORDS, English Bone China & Figurines, Collectibles, Tools, Antiques, ETC Rob • 604-307-6715

classifieds newwestrecord ca

FVACC ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES SHOW

April 21 22, 2023 Queen’s Park Arena, New West 200+ tables Reg Adm s: $5 Ear y: $20 Queen’s Park Arena, New West. Visit FVACC.CA

burial plots

cont. on next page

Side-by-side spaces at Forest Lawn Beautiful side by s de properties in the Ascension section of Forest Lawn Memorial Park

are two spaces, and each space can accommodate 1 casket they will be so d as

pa r They are east facing and have surrounding v ews of the Metrotown skyl ne, as well as easy access from multiple entrances This area s highly desirable and is so d out

Please call 604 755 7730 to discuss the price If you w sh to see or earn more about the property, please contact us, and we w ll arrange for the view ng with Forest Lawn”

Toadvertise,email

DTJames@glaciermediaca

classifieds.newwestrecord.ca

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

PUZZLE

stucco