Pattullo farewell proposed
Bridge party,memorial considered to salute historic structure
TheresaMcManus tmcmanus@newwestrecord caA three-day celebration of the Pattullo Bridge and a quieter time for reflection are being proposed for the landmark structure
Coun. Daniel Fontaine presented city council with a motion about inviting the community to celebrate and say goodbye to the Pattullo Bridge. His motion noted the “iconic” part of the city’s history is slated to be replaced by a wider, more modern bridge in 2024.
When that happens, Fontaine would like the public to have an opportunity to experience the Pattullo Bridge without truck and vehicle traffic
Continued on page 5
UpFront
Will more supervisors make NWSS safer?
The school district is budgeting for more supervisor hours and training to help address safety concerns at the high school
JulieMacLellan jmaclellan@newwestrecord.caMore noon-hour supervision is coming to New Westminster Secondary School in answer to concerns about student safety but not everyone is convinced it’s going to solve the problem.
School District 40 has earmarked $23,944 as a new priority in its 202324 budget to increase supervision hours at the high school.
“It’s clear from my experience this year at NWSS that there is a need for additional resources in student supervision and student monitoring,” Robert Weston, SD40’s executive director of human resources, told school trustees during a May 2 budget presentation
Student safety and behaviour has been an ongoing issue this school year, with incidents including pepper-spraying, firecrackers, washroom fires, vandalism and vaping in washrooms
The district has already installed more surveillance
cameras at the school, along with vape detectors in the gender-neutral washrooms on the main floor Now it wants to add more eyes to the job of patrolling the common areas and keeping an eye on students
Weston noted there will now be four four-hour supervisors spread out during the school day an increase of four hours per day
“This, we hope, will enable them to schedule during the course of the day a more uniform supervision of student activity at the various areas of the school,” he said
Weston said the district will also focus on training for the supervisors both existing and new staff so they have the skills to monitor student behaviour and intervene, or not, as necessary The district will also prioritize connections between the supervisors and child and youth workers so the supervisors have additional resources to call on when needed.
Trustee Dee Beattie questioned whether, in
a future year, the district might consider having fullday child and youth care workers rather than just more noon-hour supervisors
“I think that (child and youth care workers) are better at establishing relationships with students, and I don’t know if that would be a better model for the mental health of students and the wellness of students,” she said Weston acknowledged Beattie’s point, noting that’s why the district is working to make sure supervisors have a link to child and youth care workers He said that, although supervisors do have to intervene occasionally, the “vast majority” of their time is spent walking around and observing
PARENT CONCERNS
Laura Kwong, chair of the NewWestminster district parent advisory council (DPAC), questioned whether more noon-hour supervisors would really be effective
She suggested a child and youth care worker
who has connections with students, or someone with a security background, might be a better solution
Fellow parent Kathleen Carlsen, vice-chair of DPAC, agreed “Noon-hour supervisors at elementary schools are fantastic.They’re not effective at the high school
in making the students feel safe,” she said “There’s no respect given to them whatsoever ”
She said child and youth care workers who can build relationships with students, or even security guards, should be a consideration instead
Weston stressed that
“appropriate training” will be a focus for noon-hour supervisors next year including training in de-escalation and identification of safety issues He said the district will monitor the situation and can always take a new approach if it determines there’s a better way of doing the work
JulieMacLellan jmaclellan@newwestrecord caNewWestminster Secondary School will soon have a second principal School District 40 has earmarked $194,475 for the co-principal’s position as one of its new budget priorities for 2023-24, as outlined at the school
board’s operations committee meeting May 2.
Maryam Naser, the school district’s associate superintendent, said the co-principalship is an “innovative” model of leadership that makes sense for NWSS as one of the largest secondary schools in the province
“We have a very com-
plex school, somewhat because of the one main secondary school.We have many programs running at NewWestminster Secondary, including French immersion, IB (international baccalaureate), trades programs that you may see in other neighbouring districts sprinkled across many secondary schools,”
she pointed out.
Superintendent Karim Hachlaf said the addition of the second principal’s position dovetails with the district’s focus on improving student safety.
“The dual principalship model serves us well to our commitment around safety and supervision with the entire school community,”
he said.
Hachlaf said the division of responsibilities will depend on the candidate who’s hired but said there are a number of ways that the role could be split including a junior/senior model or including particular programs (such as IB) in one person’s portfolio.
But he said the vision for
the role is one where the responsibilities overlap.
“You’re running one of the largest secondary schools in the province and want that integration,” he said.
“The vision behind the co-principalship model is to have that support. … It’s to have that kind of collaboration.”
‘Innovative’: NWSS will soon have a co-principalin the name of safety: New Westminster Secondary School, above, was the site of a rally one year ago to protest a culture of sexual harassment at the high school. Since then, other safety concerns including fires and vandalism have made headlines at the school, and School District 40 is adding more lunchtime supervisors in response. photo julie maclellan
WATERING RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT!
Stage 1 watering restrictions are currently in effect until Oct 15 for both residential and non-residential areas. These restrictions help prepare for potential water shortages during the warmer months. Watering outside the allowed times requires a permit Visit newwestcity.ca/lawnwatering for details on when you’re permitted to water your lawn and garden, and how to apply for a permit. For lawn care and outdoor water conservation tips, visit welovewater.ca.
NOTICE RESPECTING ZONING AMENDMENT BYLAW
Under sections 464(2) and 467 of the Local Government Act
MONDAY, MAY 29, 2023 AT 6:00 PM
Meeting held electronically and open to public attendance in Council Chamber, City Hall
ZONING AMENDMENT BYLAW NO. 8390, 2023 FOR 810 AGNES STREET AND 815 – 821 VICTORIA STREET
An Application for rezoning has been received from Brookfield Development to change the property from Multiple Unit Residential District (High Density) (RM6B) to a site-specific, Comprehensive Development (CD) District (CD-103). The application proposes the development of a 33-storey high-rise tower with 352 secured market rental housing units, secured by Housing Agreement Bylaw No. 8389, 2023. The development also includes design and construction of an adjacent community park at 824 Agnes Street; a publicly accessible indoor community space (325 16 square metres /3,500 square feet) located on the subject property and co-located with the community park; and an enhanced streetscape and pedestrian treatment on Victoria Street The rezoning application is consistent with the Downtown Community Plan and the Secured Market Rental Housing Policy, and in accordance with sections 464(2) and 467 of the Local Government Act, the Corporation of the City of New Westminster will not hold a public hearing on Zoning Amendment Bylaw No 8390, 2023
HOW DO I GET MORE INFORMATION?
From May 18 to May 29, 2023, except for May 22, 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
City Council will consider giving first, second and third readings to Bylaw No 8390, 2023 at its meeting on May 29, 2023. The meeting will be open to public attendance and broadcast live on the City’s website It can be viewed by going to newwestcity.ca/council and clicking on either the meeting ID or the Council meeting in the calendar
Peter DeJong, Corporate Officer
CITYPAGE
THE LATEST NEWS AND EVENTS IN OUR CITY
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Thursday, May 18 6:00 pm
Community Bike Ride Century House (12km loop)
Monday, May 22 No Council Meeting
Wednesday, May 24 11:30 am
State of the City Address Starlight Casino
OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD
MONDAY, May 29, 2023 AT 6:00 PM
Meeting held electronically and open to public attendance in Council Chamber, City Hall
INTER-MUNICIPAL TNS (RIDE HAILING) BUSINESS LICENCE SCHEME BYLAW NO. 8391, 2023
NOTICE OF BYLAW:
New Westminster City Council is considering expanding the Inter-Municipal Business Licence (IMBL) Scheme for Transportation Network Services (TNS aka “Ride Hailing”). This change will expand the IMBL TNS program to include the District of Hope, the District of Kent and the City of Mission
The IMBL scheme streamlines the licensing process across Region 1 (Lower Mainland, Whistler) and allows ride-hailing companies to operate in all participating municipalities with a single business licence. To allow new entrants to the IMBL, each participating municipality must approve and enact a new IMBL Agreement and new Bylaws.
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 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
If you wish to speak at this Opportunity to be Heard, starting at 8:30 am on May 23, 2023, you may register online at speakers.newwestcity.ca, or contact Legislative Services. However, registration is not required:
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 May 9 to May 29, 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, except May 22, 2023, and online at: newwestcity.ca/publicnotices
Written comments received by 5:00 pm, four 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.
Peter DeJong, Corporate Officer
City‘One last time to say goodbye’: Bridge party proposed
Continued from page 1
“I think it would be a great opportunity for us, if that bridge were closed down and decommissioned, to allow the public an opportunity to be able to walk across it, cycle, take their scooter, go along with whatever mode of transportation they want to do,” he said “This would allow them to do that ”
Fontaine’s motion proposed a three-day closure of the bridge after the new crossing opens. During that three-day period, he’d like to see one day set aside for a day-long, community-based street festival on the bridge.
“I’d love to see some
food trucks on there. I’d love to see some kids, families, just people from all sectors of our society on the Pattullo Bridge one last time to say goodbye,” he said. “Some people might be happy with that, and others might be a bit sad and a bit dismayed that the bridge is disappearing.”
Coun. Jaimie McEvoy said some people have nostalgic feelings about the bridge and some photographers would like a chance to get on the bridge when there’s no traffic to take photos, but not everyone has fond memories of the bridge. He said there have been fatalities on the bridge
due to suicide and traffic crashes
“And as early as 2006, part of the reason for replacing it was it had begun to be described as the killer bridge,” he said of traffic fatalities “So I supported the replacement of the Pattullo, knowing that it could have some impact on NewWestminster but because it’s such a dangerous bridge.”
Council approved McEvoy’s amendment that a memorial day or event be held in recognition of the lives lost and harmed on the bridge.
Fontaine supported the “really wonderful addition” to his motion, saying it recognizes those who
Closures coming
The Pattullo Bridge will see some closures this weekend to accommodate rescheduled work on the Royal Avenue overpass. Northbound bridge lanes will be closed to vehicle traffic from Friday, May 19 at 7 p.m. to Tuesday, May 23 at 5 a.m. Pedestrians, cyclists and emergency vehicles will still have access. Royal Avenue will also be closed between McBride Boulevard and the on-ramp. Get updates at www.pattullobridgereplacement.ca.
don’t have fond memories of the bridge and could provide people with a quiet opportunity for reflection
McEvoy’s amendment easily passed a vote by council, but additional amendments to Fontaine’s motion generated a bit of
back-and-forth discussion Some councillors were concerned the wording of Fontaine’s motion might give the impression the city would be organizing the community celebration
After a 25-minute discussion, council ap-
proved a motion to have the mayor write a letter on behalf of council to the B C Ministry ofTransportation andTransLink to determine the feasibility of opening the Pattullo Bridge to pedestrian, cycle and other non-vehicle modes of transportation for a period of three days (Friday, Saturday and Sunday), subsequent to the opening of the new bridge It also stated that council notify the ministry andTransLink that the city want them to facilitate a community-based celebration of the Pattullo Bridge by way of an onbridge, day-long street festival during that three-day public access period
MY VIew KeITH BaLdreY
Exhibit reopening is a victory for common sense
The recent announcement that the Old Town exhibit in the Royal B C Museum would reopen to the public is a reminder that museums and politics are intrinsically linked.
In recent years the Royal B C Museum, which is owned by the provincial government, decided to move towards the “decolonization” of its exhibits and displays But what constituted “colonization” was never adequately explained or defined, so when it was announced 18 months ago that Old Town would be closed, the public reaction was harshly negative.
The exhibit is a quaintly charming recreation of Victoria city life in the late 1800s A cobbled street, storefronts
housing a print shop and a saloon as well as a multi-level hotel, drew visitors by the thousands.
But there is a vocal minority who consider pretty much any recreation of depiction of our past to be offensive because it inevitably shows objects and people from our colonial past
This minority seemed to have captured the views of the museum management, who announced in November 2021 that Old Town would disappear A few months later, the B.C. government announced the entire museum would be closed for eight years while a new facility was built Again, cue the harshly negative public reaction.
The government backed down the
announcement that the replacement idea was on hold was one of John Horgan’s last major announcements as premier and things went quiet, until February
After leaving the strong impression that Old Town had been torn down, the museum announced in February that the exhibit was still largely intact
Now it will largely reopen to the public at the end of July Some parts of it will reopen in the winter.
The reason for the turnaround, which will undoubtedly be a popular decision?
None other than newly appointed Tourism Minister Lana Popham.
Soon after taking over the portfolio in January, Popham began pushing back against the museum management, prod-
ding it into revisiting its position and demanding that it find a way to reopen Old Town (with some significant changes).
Old Town will open with some new “contextual information” panels installed in various places to further explain the early history warts and all of this province Instead of making the past disappear, more information will be offered to better understand it
This is a victory for common sense and our depiction of history
Politics will always be linked to the Royal B C Museum Popham’s intervention showed the upside of that linkage
Keith Baldrey is chief political reporter forGlobal BC.
Lara Graham REGIONAL PubLIshER lgraham@glaciermedia.ca Mark Falkenberg EDITOR mwfalkenberg@newwestrecord.ca Vicki Magnison REGIONAL sALEs D RECTOR vimagnison@glaciermedia.caLetters
Two years later,we still mourn the Heritage Grill
editor: May 24, 2021, marks a sad day for me and so many other musicians, artists and creative-minded people living in New Westminster and throughout the Lower Mainland, as we approach the two-year anniversary of the fire that destroyed the Heritage Grill.
Opened in 2005 and just steps away from the Columbia SkyTrain station, the Heritage Grill was a restaurant and, most importantly, a significant New West cultural hub which, during its 16-year history, enriched the lives of so many people and added so much to the culture of downtown New West.
It was a place where developing musicians, spoken word artists and comedians could have their very first experience performing in front of an audience simply by showing up on Monday night’s open mic It was also a place where you could hear many of the Lower Mainland’s finest musicians, curated by the outstanding Richard Chapman, performing six nights a week in a room that was always
welcoming to performers and guests
The Heritage Grill hosted the weekly ukulele club led by the amazing Gord Smithers, where anyone could just walk in off the street never having played an instrument before, borrow a ukulele and songbook and be up and learning in an instant In addition to these regular events, the Heritage Grill also was a gallery for local visual artists and hosted many events in its back room including the Philosopher’s Café, LGBTQ community events, performance art, songwriting showcases and comedy shows
The Heritage Grill also was a partner in downtown events including the food truck festival, New West Pride and the show ’n’ shine Owner Paul Minhas was and is a true champion of supporting local “street level and up” music and art as a means to bring people of all kinds of differing backgrounds together
I find it difficult to understand why there seems to be so little support from the current city council to help fill the void left by the Heritage Grill a social space where artists could have the freedom to express themselves and present something that you might not have heard or seen before. It is support for this kind
of venue that I feel is sorely missing from the New West local arts culture in 2023
For now, those of us who treasured “The Grill” are left with great memories to share
Jeff NeufeldIt’s time to grow up and ditch the‘royal’label
editor: I love New West. The pre-car urban planning fabric of this city combined with our slightly more affordable housing creates an inclusive vibe that is hard to put into words
That being said, it’s time to sunset the whole “Royal City” theme. If the coronation of Charles has taught us anything, it’s that how silly it is to worship a former totalitarian regime
The fact that we as a democratic society place symbolic value into such an archaic institution is hard to process as a semi-young person.
It’s time to stop honouring our colonial overlords
We live in a beautiful riverfront city in the Pacific Northwest with stunning views of a mighty river and the North Cascades. We don’t
require external validation from unelected folks abroad to be proud
Let’s honour the Indigenous folks whose land we inhabit and the diversity of settlers that call this place home today. No more Royal Avenues and Queen’s Park Let’s grow up and move on
Brett RobinsonLet’s encourage more live music downtown
editor: The other day I was down at Granville Island noticing how good the atmosphere was because of the quality free music on the street level by buskers. I also noticed for the first time a small group playing by Eighth Street SkyTrain station and how it enlivened the atmosphere
My suggestion is this: The city should try to encourage street music any way possible on a regular basis This would be cheap and would draw more people downtown, helping local merchants
Trace Fairley
NEW TO NEW WEST: INTERCULTURAL FESTIVAL AND INFORMATION FAIR
Welcome Centre, 820 Sixth Street (New Westminster Secondary)
Saturday, June 3, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
The City of New Westminster and WINS Local Immigration Partnership (funded by the Government of Canada) invite you to this FREE resource fair Make volunteer connections and get information on health, jobs, financial programs, and settlement services. There will also be children's activities, entertainment, and more! This year's theme is "drumming around the world."
SPRAY PARKS & OUTDOOR POOLS ARE ALL OPEN STARING MAY 20!
Splish and splash this weekend at spray parks and pools! All five spray parks will be open daily, 9:00 am - 9:00 pm, plus Grimston Park Wading Pool will be open Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Moody Park Outdoor Pool continues to be open daily Hume Park Outdoor Pool will open Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 - 7:15 pm Limited drop-in is available; reservations are highly recommended. Leisure and lane swimming is $2.00 per person, check the schedule for session times.
For full details and updates, visit: newwestcity.ca/sprayparks and newwestcity.ca/outdoor-pools
Q TO Q FERRY SCHEDULE CHANGES
Service levels for the Q to Q Ferry will be increased for the summer, starting Saturday, May 20, 2023. Visit newwestcity.ca/qtoqferry for fare info and more The new schedule will be as follows:
WEEKDAYS
• Leaving Quayside at 7:00 am, then every 30 minutes until 7:30 pm (9:30 pm on Friday)
• Leaving Queensborough at 7:15 am, then every 30 minutes until 7:45 pm (9:45 pm on Friday)
WEEKENDS & STATUTORY HOLIDAYS
• Leaving Quayside at 10:00 am, then every 30 minutes until 8:30 pm (9:30 pm on Saturday)
• Leaving Queensborough at 10:15 am, then every 30 minutes until 8:45 pm (9:45 pm on Sunday)
NEW WESTMINSTER YOUTH FIREFIGHTER PROGRAM
The New Westminster Youth Firefighter program invites motivated and passionate youth (grade 10 - 12) to apply for this fun learning experience. The program places students in a Fire Academy situation featuring classroom review, workplace experience, and live-fire combat!
The application deadline is Friday, May 26 at 9:00 pm. Applications are available in-person at the Youth Centre, 620 Eighth Street, or online at newwestyouth ca. For more info contact Paolo Zenone at pzenone@newwestcity.ca or 604.515.3801.
THE LATEST NEWS AND EVENTS IN OUR CITY
LAST CHANCE: ANNUAL STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS
Don’t miss out! Join Mayor, Council and the New Westminster community at Starlight Casino for lunch and the annual State of the City address on Wednesday, May 24, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm. Mayor Patrick Johnstone will highlight the recently approved Council’s Strategic Plan and deep dive into how they landed at their strategic priorities, and what it means for the City and the community in the term ahead Tickets are $40 plus fees and can be purchased at nwstateofthecity.eventbrite.ca Ticket sales end tomorrow, May 19.
MAYORS’ FOOD BANK CHALLENGE
The City of New Westminster is proud to once again participate in the Mayors’ Food Bank Challenge! This month the mayors of New Westminster, Burnaby, Vancouver, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver, are challenging their communities to help the Greater Vancouver Food Bank feed people in need
There are nearly 1,150 individuals, families, and seniors living in New Westminster that are in need of food support We came in a close second place last year, so let’s try our best to raise the most and prove that our city is the very best at taking care of its own.
Donate today: mayorschallenge foodbank.bc.ca/fundraiser/newwestminster
BIKE DONATION DRIVE MAY 15 – JUNE 30
Do you have a bike that could be rehomed to a community member? Consider donating it to Cap’s Bicycle Shop (434A East Columbia Street in Sapperton)! Cap’s Bicycle Shop will refurbish the donated bikes and match them with eligible community members. All conditions and types of bikes will be accepted.
APPLY TO RECEIVE A BIKE
Are you in need of a bike? Apply in-person at Century House or at the Welcome Centre (New Westminster Secondary). Or apply online; visit newwestcity.ca/bike-month/events/7118.php for application instructions. Successful applicants will be notified starting June 16, while bikes are available
ADOPT A STREET TREE!
Help us increase our urban tree canopy by caring for newly planted City trees. As a Tree Steward you’ll water and weed young trees from June to September. Find a map of 600+ adoptable trees, and learn how to volunteer on our website There are many trees in need in the Brow of the Hill and Queensborough! Learn more at newwestcity.ca/adopt-a-street-tree
VICTORIA DAY WEEKEND SCHEDULE CHANGES
Please be advised that recreation facility hours and program schedules may change on Victoria Day weekend, May 20 – 22, 2023 Before coming to a facility, please call or check the website for program availability. newwestcity.ca/rec
SR. A SALMONBELLIES 2023
2023 SALMONBELLIES PREVIEW
We’re 135 years old!
Yes, you read that correctly The Salmonbellies are celebrating our 135th year in 2023 and were looking to make a splash!
This year the Mann Cup will be played on the west coast, and we plan to be there The Bellies have stocked our line-up with homegrown National Lacrosse League scoring leaders Mitch Jones, Keegan Bal, Kevin Crowley, Haiden Dickson, Ryan Martel, and brothers Anthony and Will Malcom Our defense is equally star-studded, and includes Drew Belgrave, Patrick Shoemay, Justin Salt, Brandon Goodwin, Jordan Gilles, Colton Clark and Brett Myske. Longtime favourites such as Jordan and Jimmy McBride, Tyrell HamerJackson, Ilija Gajic, and Quinn Mackay will welcome newcomers, including standout Junior graduate
Noah Armitage Make no mistake, local fans will witness world-class lacrosse right next door at Queens Park Arena
Join us throughout the season every Thursday evening, starting May 25th . Tickets are on sale right now at Salmonbellies.com.
New this year, were featuring the Stonehaus Family Pack Buy tickets for a family of four for the price of 2 adult tickets
Plus, were offering our first ever homegrown beer! Thanks to Steel & Oak Brewery, you can buy a Bellies Lager at this year ’ s games Stay refreshed while you watch!
As always, Bellies lacrosse is a community affair We’ll host minor games during first intermissions and our Paper Plane contest in the second We’ll also host a series
2023 GAME SCHEDULE
of theme nights including Minor Night on May 25th and Alumni Night (featuring all the greats from the Wooden Stick Era) on July 6th We are still a community-operated team and we will be celebrating New Westminster all season long Look for us in the community and on-line Our friends at Stonehaus Realty are also helping us to up our social media game, so please
follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter And check out Salmonbellies com every week for updates and previews
For 135 years, New Westers have been able to get up close and personal with their lacrosse heroes Were intent on earning our 25th Mann Cup and we want you to join us Experience the Tradition this season! ■
City
City approves strata conversion of historic building
TheresaMcManus tmcmanus@newwestrecord caA strata conversion project on Columbia Street has received council’s support more than a decade after the project got underway
On May 8, council approved the proposed strata conversion of the existing commercial building at 716 Columbia St It allows for the creation of eight strata units seven residential and one commercial in the four-storey building that was constructed in 1898.
“The building has undergone a complete interior retrofit down to the superstructure,” said a report to council. “The facade was retained as part of a special development permit (SDP) issued in
2010.”
In May 2010, the building’s owner applied to the city for a special development permit to allow the revitalization of the Occidental Hotel building.The plan involved converting the top three floors into seven loft-style residential units and a façade improvement.
Before supporting the strata conversion, council members had a few questions about the project for staff including some related to the size of the units
“I think there’s some good things about this, including having some housing right on Columbia Street as part of the overall idea of population can lead to rejuvenation,” said Coun Jaimie McEvoy “And I think it’s a
good use of the building, I just have one concern that I do want to flag, which is a smallness of the suites.”
With one of the smallest units in the building being around 300 square feet, he questioned if it conforms to the city’s bylaws.
“It’s just to make sure that we have humane accommodation,” he said.
JackieTeed, the city’s acting director of climate action, planning and development, said the city’s bylaws have a 350-squarefoot minimum size for studio units, but they don’t have a limitation on other sizes of units.
“The application was given the development permit in 2010, and the building permits were also issued in 2011 and 2012 to complete the work,” she said
“We would need to go back and confirm when it was put into our zoning bylaw that the units could be minimum of 350 square feet. But it is possible, I would hope likely, that that came post the is-
suance of these permits.”
Lisa Leblanc, the city’s director of engineering, said this is a longstanding development dating back to 2010.
“My understanding is that the units are con-
structed,” she said “So this is a procedural step in order to convert to strata ”
Coun Daniel Fontaine said the formerly “decrepit” looking building now looks much improved and has resulted in the retention of a heritage building on Columbia Street.
Teed said the property owner may wish to rent out the units to begin with, but the ultimate intention is to sell them as condo units. She said it’s her understanding that no one is living in the units at this time.
“I wouldn’t vote for it if it resulted in evictions,” McEvoy said. “It’s interesting to take a commercial space, stratify it, and then start out renting it. The whole thing could be condo rental apartments, theoretically.”
Register early to ensure your place in the tournament, as we expect to sell out!
Registation forms available at: www rotarypotofgoldgolf com, or email Rick Molstad at: Molstad rick@gmail
Saturday, may 20
BBQ BASH
Help a local restaurant celebrate its 10th birthday NewWest’s Longtail Kitchen is throwing a spot prawn BBQ bash to celebrate its milestone event. At the patio party, you’ll get served hot-off-the-grill barbecued prawns with nahm jim dipping sauce; you get to wash it down with chilled beer from Steel & Oak Brewing Co Take your time with the feast, but hurry up with booking a spot.Tickets are priced at $48.88 per person).
WHEN: Saturday, May 20, 2 to 7 p.m.
WHERE: Longtail Kitchen at River Market (810 Quayside Dr.)
DETAILS: www.instagram.com/ longtailkitchen
Saturday, may 20
THE CAT’S MEOW
Juice up your Saturday evening with live music and social dancing. Don’t know how to triple step and rock step?
No worries The Cat’s Meow at the Anvil event is offering a beginner swing dance lesson (partner not required) Presented by Uptown Swing Collective, the event will have talented singer, dancer and finalist in the KaraokeWorld Championships, Mira Dasu, teach workshops and also perform Early-bird tickets are $20, regular tickets are $32 and at-the-door tickets are $36.
WHEN: Saturday, May 20, 7 to 10:30 p.m.
WHERE: Anvil Theatre, 777 Columbia St.
Don’t miss these weekend events & activities!
Find more events online: newwestrecord ca/local-events
Please send your information for inclusion on to calendar@newwestrecord.ca
tHurSday, may 18
COMMUNITY BIKE RIDE
Want to bike around the city but not sure which are the official bike routes? Show up with your bicycle this evening at a community bike ride event and get familiar with bike routes to popular NewWest destinations. Ride with a group of cyclists and a trained HUB-New Westminster volunteer at a comfortable pace of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour, and get confident at navigating the city on your bike.
WHEN: Thursday, May 18, 6 to 7 p.m.
WHERE: The ride begins and ends at Century House, 620 Eighth St. (Moody Park).
INFO: Email hubnewwestminsterevents@gmail com with HUB-NW Bike Ride in the subject line, or see www.newwestcity.ca/calendar-of-events.
INFO: www anviltheatre.ca
OngOing
HIDDEN FRAGMENTS
Six creatives met at a workshop where they discovered new methods of creating art using discarded paper and paint.This chance meeting has now led to a fullblown exhibition of their works Though they all follow a shared approach, their works created through techniques such as layering, collage, mask making and sanding each have a unique style. Find out more about their story and their art at the ongoing show, Hidden Fragments:
Layers of Discovery at Plaskett Gallery.
WHEN: Ongoing until June 9. Gallery open Tuesday to Friday, 1 to 4 p.m., during shows in the theatre and by appointment at 604-517-5900.
WHERE: Plaskett Gallery at Massey Theatre, 735 Eighth Ave. INFO: www.masseytheatre.com
OngOing
BUILDING A BETTER TOMORROW THROUGH ART
The Burnaby and NewWestminster school districts have joined forces to present Building a BetterTomorrow
Through Art a show featuring artwork by high school students with diverse needs The show, hosted by the City of New Westminster’s Art Services department, includes works by students from Burnaby North Secondary, Cariboo Hill Secondary, Moscrop Secondary, NewWestminster Secondary andVancouver’s Kitsilano and Magee secondary schools.
WHEN: Ongoing until May 31, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
WHERE: Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia St., fourth floor
WHERE: www.tinyurl.com/
BetterTomorrowNW2023
Compiled by Naveena Vijayan
Outdoor fitness circuit comes to Moody Park
TheresaMcManus tmcmanus@newwestrecord caNewWest residents can do pullups, pushups and other exercises in the great outdoors
The City of New Westminster is installing a new outdoor fitness area in Moody Park, in a spot along the pedestrian path, just south of the youth centre and Century House
“The fitness equipment is intended to provide adults and youth with an opportunity to engage in outdoor physical fitness,” said Darren Miller, park planner for parks and open space planning, design and construction “While the playground at Moody Park is popular with children, adults who want to work out can head to the new fitness area nearby”
The city already has outdoor fitness areas in Queen’s Park and in Old School House Park in Queensborough
“The city has received a
number of requests from local residents for more outdoor fitness equipment,” Miller said.
The Moody Park facility is located in an area with views of the adjacent playground and grass field.
“The new fitness area provides an outdoor location to work out while enjoying fresh air and sunshine in Moody Park,” Miller said. “The new equipment intends to help with strength, cardio, flexibility and balance.”
The city selected equipment that’s designed to accommodate a range of ages and abilities. Offerings include: a stationary hand bike (accessible); monkey bars; and calisthenics structures, such as an incline bench, parallel bars (accessible), pushup bar, decline press, Swedish ladder, human flagpole and pullup station.
The budget for site preparation, equipment and surfacing was $50,000.
Girls’ lacrosse tourney honours New West volunteer
TheresaMcManus tmcmanus@newwestrecord caWhen girls’ lacrosse teams from around B.C. suited up for the Dorothy Robertson Memorial Tournament in NewWest on the weekend, they did so in honour of a woman who had a passion for the game of lacrosse.
The tournament, held May 12 to 14 at Queen’s Park and Moody Park arenas, included play in U-11, U-13, U-15 and U-17 divisions. JaniceWarton, who is Robertson’s daughter, was in Queen’s Park Arena on Saturday to do a ceremonial ball drop for a U9 exhibition game Robertson, a loyal Sal-
monbellies fan, committed an incredible amount of time to the game, said a write-up from the New Westminster Minor Lacrosse Association.
Born and raised in New Westminster, Robertson began volunteering her time to the sport in 1944. She served as secretary with the British Columbia Lacrosse Association from 1968 to 1995, and she was also the secretary for the Western Lacrosse Association and the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame.
“Dorothy was an avid fan and enthusiastic supporter of lacrosse in all its many aspects and was the first woman to be inducted to the Canadian
Lacrosse Hall of Fame,” the NWMLA wrote.
After Robertson’s death in 1995, a memorial plaque was installed in her honour in the southwest corner of NewWestminster’s Queen’s Park Arena. Her children founded the Dorothy Robertson Lacrosse Bursary.
The box lacrosse season began in April and is now in full swing, with the New Westminster Minor Lacrosse Association hosting two more tournaments in the weeks ahead.The Hyack Invitational bantam (U-15) tournament runs from May 19 to 21 and the JohnWitt Memorial Bellie Bowl novice tournament (U-11) is from June 2 to 4
Community Library launches podcast service
TheresaMcManus tmcmanus@newwestrecord caIf you’ve dreamed of sharing stories and ideas through a podcast, you’ll want to tune in to the latest offering at the New Westminster Public Library
The library has just launched a new podcast recording service that will make it possible for community members to record and share their own stories and ideas through podcasts Folks will be able to access equipment, make use of a newly modified recording room and produce their own podcasts in the main branch of the library for free
“We are always surveying the land and seeing what people are doing Podcasting has just exploded through the pandemic,” said Liz Hunter, a digital learning librarian “People are consuming podcasts at a phenomenal rate now Even though they’ve been around for years and years, they’ve just taken off incredibly”
According to the NWPL, more than eight million Canadians enjoy a host of podcast on topics including comedy, local is-
sues, politics, true crime, and health and fitness.
“As a library, we want to make sure that we reflect the times we are in and ensure that emerging technology and services are made available to our community especially those who may not otherwise have access,” said chief librarian Jorge Cardenas “Libraries are not just about warehousing stories, but also about creating and sharing them in new and original ways Podcasting is a great example of that ”
The library has created a number of podcast kits containing microphones, cables and hardware, as well as a set of how-to guides to help get people started
The library has also modified the second floor Gallery Room with noise-reduction and sound-baffling features to help optimize the recording experience The recording space can be booked ahead of time and can accommodate recording of up to four individuals at a time
Given the richness of the community of NewWestminster, Hunter is confident there are many topics that local residents might
want to bring to light and to tell a story around.
“Feeling shy, feeling intimidated? Don’t let that stop you,” she said. “Come on in and we’ll show you just how easy this can be to be fun, and be cre-
ative, and get your stories and your ideas out there.”
For information, contact the library at 604-5274665, email askus@nwpl. ca or see www.nwpl.ca/ podcast.
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Arts & Entertainment
Catch Romance & Roses at Queen’s Park
The Gallery at Queen’s Park is offering a window into love and beauty.
Artist Marney-Rose Edge is presenting an exhibition called Romance & Roses at the Gallery at Queen's Park, running un-
til May 28.
Edge’s work depicts roses, with ribbons used in place of stems to create movement and flow.
"My idea is to see romantic experiences like falling in love, an engage-
ment orValentine's Day as a way to create conversations about love, romance and beauty," Edge wrote.
Romance & Roses is on display at the Gallery at Queen's Park in Centennial Lodge until May 28.
There's an artist talk on Sunday, May 21 from 1 to 3 p.m.
The gallery is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
ROTARY IN
REMEMBRANCES
CARLSON, Yvonne Alice
July 18, 1941 - May 2, 2023
It is wth great sadness that we announce the passing of Yvonne A ice Carlson on May 2, 2023 Yvonne s survived by son Lance (Debbie), husband Bob Girardo, sister Sy v a Anderson, brother Glenn (Me inda) Ponto, niece Sh rley Anderson, nephew Scott Anderson, and many re atives and friends
Memoria services to be held at Kearney Co umb aBowell Chapel 219 - 6th St , New Westminster on Saturday, June 3 at 1:00 p m Please o n the fami y folowng the servce for refreshments and felowship n the recept on room
LEGAL
LegaL/PubLic nOtices
LEGAL NOTICE
Not ce s hereby given that on May 23rd, 2023, u-Lock Mni Storage, 4240 Manor St, Burnaby, v5G 1B2, wi l sell the contents of the lockers isted be ow:
un t #0139 - Yux ang (Marco) Guo
un t #1040 - x nmao Huang
un t #1107 - Joshua St Germa ne un t #2194 - J Soo (Jessica) Lee un t #0073 - Sam Garc a
These lockers w ll be put for auction v a:
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on the 23rd of May 2023
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SUDOKU
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.
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