Morguardready toteardown BurquitlamPlaza
JANIS CLEUGH jcleugh@tricitynews.comA bid for a master-planned community to replace Burquitlam Plaza is expected to come before Coquitlam City Council in the next few months
Morguard Investment
Ltd is proposing to build six towers with 2,200 units for about 5,000 residents plus retail and child care spaces east of the Burquitlam SkyTrain station, at 552 Clarke Rd., and 550 and 566
Emerson St
If approved, the development would roll out in two phases:
• Phase 1: three towers ranging in height from 28 to 43 storeys, with 1,039 rental suites and 28,195 sq ft of commercial space
• Phase 2: three towers ranging in height from 33 to 53 storeys, with 1,173 units
and 56,347 sq ft of commercial space
On Monday (Jan. 30), the proposed project came before council-in-committee for an update about a week after the YMCA opened its facility next to Burquitlam Plaza (see story on Page 16)
And it comes as Concert Properties builds its towers next to the Morguard property and the City of Coquitlam builds a park and ride, as well as a new community police station, to create the new “Heart of Burquitlam”
Designed by James Cheng of James Cheng Architects, the Morguard master plan hasn’t changed substantially since it was introduced in the fall of 2021, the committee heard.
see COQUITLAM NEEDS, page 5
TR CITIES TRI-CITIES
‘Obviouslythisonefeelsalittlebitmorespecial’
Kent Johnson held off the score sheet in 5-2 loss
MARIO BARTEL mbartel@tricitynews.comKent Johnson’s dad just can’t wipe the smile off his face.
Ten rows of maroon-coloured seats above the ice, Jay Johnson is intently watching his 20-year-old son wheel around Rogers Arena with his Columbus Blue Jackets teammates, just hours ahead of his first NHL game in front of hometown family and friends from Port Moody
Just how many, Jay can’t say
But, he added, he’s dreading his visit to a ticket reseller’s website later in the day to see what he might be able to dig up for some buddies who’ve requested to join the contingent headed to last Friday’s (Jan 27) game against the Vancouver Canucks
Kent Johnson said while he didn’t exactly mark his calendar when the NHL released its schedule last summer, playing against the team he cheered for as a kid not so many years ago, when the Sedins were still playing is “really exciting.”
“I always wanted to play in this building, so it’s gonna be cool to come full circle,” the 20-year-old player told
the Tri-City News.
Johnson is in his first full season with the Blue Jackets, who drafted him fifth overall in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft A highly touted forward who burned up the BC Hockey League (BCHL), scoring 101 points in 52 games in his final season with the Trail Smoke Eaters, then totalled 64 points in 58 games in his two seasons at the University of Michigan, he got a nine-game taste of the NHL late last season after his collegiate season ended.
Johnson said that sampler, along with further chances to play against
men at last February’s Winter Olympics in Beijing and the World Hockey Championships a few months later in Helsinki, Finland, helped ease his transition to becoming a fulltime professional hockey player
“It’s been pretty smooth, I’d say”
In 45 games this season heading into Vancouver, Johnson has nine goals and 14 assists sixth amongst this year’s crop of NHL rookies.
Likely none of his goals was bigger than the overtime winner he scored last Wednesday (Jan 25) to give
the Blue Jackets a 3-2 win over the Edmonton Oilers. The victory earned Johnson and his teammates a day off in Vancouver Thursday (Jan 26) that the young hero was able to cap off with a family meal at a downtown restaurant He said it’s nice to be coming home on the high the overtime goal gave him, but his spirits are always good when he gets on the ice.
“It’s pretty easy to get motivation when you’re in the NHL,” Johnson said.
“But obviously this one feels a little bit more special” Blue Jackets’ coach
Brad Larsen said he’s been pleased with Johnson’s progression, even as the team has struggled through a seemingly endless parade of injuries that has left it mired at the bottom of the league standings
“He’s growing and improving,” Larsen said, adding Johnson’s ability to slow the game down in his mind and read what is about to happen has advanced significantly from the start of the season
“He’s got a lot of confidence, a lot of swagger”
Johnson said he’s just trying to get better and earn more ice time, an aspiration he backs up by generally being the last player off the ice at practices and morning skates It’s a pattern that hasn’t gone unnoticed among his teammates and the Blue Jackets’ travelling crew who needle him when he finally lopes into the dressing room after Friday’s pre-game skate
“He’s always working on
his game,” Larsen said “He’s got a tremendous skill set”
Johnson said having a teammate from his Michigan days, Nick Blankenburg, has made that work more fun, and veterans like Columbus captain Boone Jenner have readily taken the team’s young players under their wings.
That’s helped him respond to some of the challenges that have come his way, like being moved to centre from his usual spot on the left wing position for several games when injuries depleted the Blue Jackets’ corps of pivots
“He’s handled it very well,” said Larsen of the way Johnson’s navigated the curves, adding he has “great poise”
Up in the stands, Jay Johnson surveys the cavernous arena around him. His son may not have marked the calendar for this day, but he sure did.
“It’s pretty exciting”
Coquitlamneedsmorerental&family-sizedunits:Mazzarolo
In total, it would bring in $80 million to the municipality in development cost charges, density bonus payments, community amenity contributions plus cash from the sale of two cityowned lots, according to a report from Andrew Merrill, Coquitlam’s director of development services
“The owners of this property believe in this project,” said Morguard’s Geoff Nagle, noting the purpose-built rental buildings will be in high demand due to their proximity to public transit
“Our ask of council is that, after two-and-a-half years of engagement, we would request that you direct staff to move to first [rezoning] reading in the next couple of months”
But while some councillors praised Morguard for adding rental stock in the city, others pressed the company for more affordable living in the busy area
Newly elected councillors
Matt Djonlic and Robert Mazzarolo urged Morguard to work with senior levels of government to build non-market units that is, housing that’s owned or controlled by a government or non-profit entity and rented out to tenants in financial need
And Mazzarolo lobbied Morguard to accommodate Coquitlam families by arranging bigger suites and more child care in the redesigned neighbourhood
Mazzarolo cited the
Housing Needs Report that came before the committee on Jan 16, showing demographic data from the 2021 census
According to the report, there’s a “significant need for affordable family-sized housing units” in Coquitlam: In 2021, the most common household in the city was made up of three people or more about 45 per cent of the housing stock; by comparison, one-person households accounted for 23 per cent
and two-person households were at 32 per cent
As well, there’s been an upward trend in renting, the report states In 2006, 25 per cent of Coquitlam residents rented compared with about 31 per cent today while home ownership declined from 75 per cent to 69 per cent
In response, Nagle told the committee that “economics are tight” and constructing more rental units would be challenging He also said no government
agency has come forward to offer financial assistance with the Burquitlam proposal
“I’d be happy to make the introduction,” Coun Trish Mandewo quipped
Morguard is not the only company planning a master-planned community in Coquitlam:
• Marcon Quadreal is now clearing the land at the southeastern corner of Barnet/Lougheed highways and Pinetree Way for TriCity Central that will include six
market condo towers, two purpose-built rental towers and a 27-storey office and hotel high-rise
• Polygon Homes got first reading on Jan 16 for Coronation Heights, a development on a former elementary school site and next to the proposed Coronation Park project by Wesgroup, in Port Moody, where another 5,000 residents are expected to move in The public hearing for Coronation Heights is Feb 27 at Coquitlam City Hall (3000 Guildford Way)
CALENDAR
Thursday,Feb.2
MascotParadeat LightsatLafarge
5:30–8:30pm TownCentrePark coquitlam.ca/parkspark
Friday,Feb.3
FrozenNightat LightsatLafarge 5:30–8:30pm TownCentrePark coquitlam.ca/parkspark
Saturday,Feb.4
LightItUpSportsNight atLightsatLafarge 5:30–8:30p.m. TownCentrePark coquitlam.ca/parkspark
Monday,Feb.6
Council-in-Committee 2pm RegularCouncil 7p.m. coquitlam.ca/council coquitlam.ca/agendas
Tuesday,Feb.7
DiscoNightatLightsat Lafarge 5:30–8:30pm TownCentrePark coquitlam.ca/parkspark
Wednesday,Feb.8
PollinatorPowerNight atLightsatLafarge 5:30–8:30pm TownCentrePark coquitlam.ca/parkspark
February2–8
What’sNew
CoquitlamBettieAllardYMCAOfficiallyOpens
ThenewCoquitlamBettieAllardYMCAofficiallyopenedits doorstothepubliconJan17
Inadditiontothe55,000-squarefootcommunitycentre,theprojectprovidesanumberofother communityamenitiesintheheartoftheBurquitlam neighbourhoodincludingaCommunityPoliceStation, park-and-ride,expandedparkland,transportation improvementsanddedicatedrentalhousing Theprojectwas madepossiblethroughapartnershipbetweentheCity,the YMCAofGreaterVancouverandConcertProperties
Dropbythefacilityforaguidedtourandtolearnmoreabout theamenities,programsandmembershipoptionsoffered, includingtheCoquitlamResidentAccessRate
LearnmoreatBettieAllardYMCA.ca
KeepingOurCommunitySafe CoquitlamRCMPExchangeZone
Anewbuyandsellexchangezonehasbeendesignated outsidetheCoquitlamRCMPmaindetachment,locatedat 2986GuildfordWay,Coquitlam Thisareaallowsresidentsto completeonlinetransactionsortransferchildrenbetween parentsand/orguardians,inasafe,knownlocation
TheExchangeZoneisundervideosurveillance24/7,however, werecommendthatresidentsarrangeexchangeswhenthe detachmentisopenduringregularbusinesshours Youcan findmoresafetytipsatcoquitlam.rcmp.ca
LookingOutfortheEnvironment
SecureAttractantstoKeepUrbanWildlifeSafe
WithrecentbearandcougarsightingsinCoquitlam,residents andbusinessesareaskedtotakeproactivemeasurestoensure theirpropertyisnotasourceoffoodforwildlife
Takethesesimplestepstokeepanimalssafeandprevent human-wildlifeconflict,including:
• Storegarbage,foodwasteandrecyclinginasecureareathat isinaccessibletowildlife,suchasinagarageorshed
• Onlyplacecartsandbinsatthecurbafter5:30am on collectionday notthenightbefore
• Keepcartsandbinsodour-freebyfreezingsmellygarbage andfoodwasteuntilcollectiondayandregularlycleaning them
Toreportwildlifeattractants,improperstorageofattractants orwildlifeaccessingattractants,calltheCityat604-927-3500 oremailurbanwildlife@coquitlam.ca.
LookingforaFureverHome
CoquitlamDogs,TrainYourHuman!
Ifadogpoopsintheforestandnooneseesit,doyouhaveto pickitup?Yes!Beingaresponsibledogownermeanscleaning upafteryourpet Evenifthebagsays“biodegradable”or “compostable”,itwon’tbreakdowninthebushes Pleasethrowalldogwasteintothegarbagecan Learnmoreatcoquitlamca/TrainYourHuman
RegistrationNowOpenforSkatingandSwimming
CoquitlamRecreation
Spring2023skatingandswimmingprogramsarenowavailableforregistration Signuponlineatcoquitlamca/registration Phone-inregistrationisavailableat 604-927-4386,weekdays8:30am to6pm (exceptforstatutoryholidays)and weekends10a.m.to2p.m.
Headsup!CoquitlamhastransitionedfromtheCanadianRedCrossSwimKids programtotheLifesavingSociety’sSwimforLifeprogram Alessonconversionchart isavailabletoviewanddownloadatcoquitlam.ca/aquatics Ifyouhavequestions aboutthistransition,pleasecall604-927-4386oremailprcs info@coquitlamca
GeneralRecreationandFitnessPrograms
• ProgramscanbeviewedonlineasofMonday,Feb 13at8:30am
• Registrationopensonline,phone-inandin-persononWednesday,Feb 15at8:30am
Encouragebearstoseeknatural foodsources
SecureYour Attractants
Afterdumplingfest,abookaboutmulticulturalism
JANIS CLEUGH jcleugh@tricitynews.comAbout a year-and-ahalf ago, Kirstin Hepburn won a contest to create characters and branding for Coquitlam’s inaugural dumpling festival.
The event drew some 25,000 visitors to Town Centre Park many of whom fell in love with the Port Coquitlam resident’s digital artwork.
So when the Asian Arts & Culture Society, which hosted the fest, asked Hepburn to refer a writer for a new kids book, she raised her hand.
After all, not only can Hepburn illustrate but, during the pandemic, she also took a course on how to write and market children’s literature.
Hepburn reached for her “massive collection of books” to figure out how to tell a tale to a younger audience using her dumpling characters.
“I just sat down one day and it tumbled out,” she said of the storyline that flowed last fall. “I used pictures of the festival as my reference.”
Titled The Lost Dumpling, the book told in rhyming couplets describes a journey of a Chinese dumpling
that falls off a plate and bounces around the Town Centre Park festival site, meeting different dumplings along the way.
Hepburn said when she presented her draft to society president Gina Chong, she was in tears and blown away by Hepburn’s narrative, which relates the society’s ongoing messaging of equal-
ity, diversity and inclusion.
Tomorrow (Friday), Hepburn and the society will officially launch the children’s book at the Outpost (3001 St. Johns St.) in Port Moody, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Copies of the book will be available for a minimum $15 donation, and Filipino-style steam buns prepared by the famous Mr Siopao De
Langley will be for sale.
Geared to children in kindergarten to Grade 3, The Lost Dumpling “is a way for us to reach out to kids about multiculturalism,” said Chong, a Port Moody Secondary graduate (Class of 1998) who has daughters aged seven and nine.
Besides the story, the work also has a glossary for
young readers and their caregivers to learn about dumplings, as well as a pronunciation guide.
The book is the first for the non-profit group, which fundraises through its signature festival and other multicultural activities in the Tri-Cities. (Its next dumpling-making class is Feb. 12; to save a spot, email asianartsculture@gmail.com).
Chong is hoping for more publications and, soon, a map of Coquitlam designed by Coquitlam artist Rose Kapp for businesses.
Stay Connected to Coquitlam
Since last summer’s dumpling festival, Chong said several business owners and entrepreneurs around the Tri-Cities have reached out to her, wanting to team up with the society to spread the word about multiculturalism.
“We want to continue to do more for the community.”
For more about the Asian Arts & Culture Society, sign up for an activity or buy "The Lost Dumpling, " visit asianartsculture.ca. The next BC Dumpling Festival is Aug. 12.
There are a number of easy ways for you to stay updated on what’s happening in your community:
• City website – coquitlam.ca
• City Page – weekly on page 6 of the Tri-City News
• CoquitlamConnect mobile app
• Notify Me – receive email or text updates on news alerts and those topics that interest you; subscribe at coquitlam ca/notifyme
• PRC E-news – delivered right to your inbox twice a month
• Social Media – @cityofcoquitlam on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn
• Tourism website – visitcoquitlam.ca
Visitcoquitlam.ca/bearsmart fordetails. |
Golden Era Cocktail Revival Gala
Come
Following
Then enjoy the food stations, live music and DJ, and cast your bids in the silent auction to support the BC Hospitality Foundation
The
Notice of Public Hearing
The City of Port Coquitlam will be holding a Public Hearing to receive input from all persons and interested parties who wish to address Council regarding the following proposed bylaw.
Date & Time: Tue, Feb 14, 2023 at 6 pm
Location: Council Chambers, City Hall - 2580 Shaughnessy St., Port Coquitlam
Immediately following adjournment of the Public Hearing the Regular Council Meeting will reconvene and Council may give consideration to bylaws on the Public Hearing portion of the Agenda
Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 4299, 2023 - 4070 Sefton Street
The Intent of Bylaw No 4299, 2023 is to amend City of Port Coquitlam Zoning Bylaw No 3630, 2008 to rezone the subject property as outlined in black on the map marked Schedule “A” to Bylaw 4299 from RS1 (Residential Single Dwelling) to RS4 (Residential Single Dwelling 4).
If approved, the application will enable the development of a two-lot subdivision
Submit Your Comments
Schedule “A” to Bylaw No 4299
In order to afford Council the opportunity to review your comments in advance of the Public Hearing please forward your submission prior to noon on the day
For further information on the Public Hearing process and/or privacy policy please visit portcoquitlam.ca/publichearings or email: corporateoffice@portcoquitlam.ca
Bigger,brighterthriftstorewillhelphospital
Eagle Ridge Auxiliary shop doubles in size
DIANE STRANDBERG dstrandberg@tricitynews.comThrift store shoppers seeking clothing, housewares, jewelry and home decor have more to buy and space to buy it in at a newly expanded shop in Port Coquitlam run by the Eagle Ridge Hospital Auxiliary.
Located at 2811B Shaughnessy St., across from Shaughnessy Station mall, the thrift store supporting Eagle Ridge Hospital (ERH) has just doubled in size.
That means even more shoppers and gently used donations can fit into the shop, which has been in this location for 10 years.
“Business is good but we needed the space to be able to give our shoppers and staff a better experience,” said manager Barbara Worwood.
The newly expanded store held a grand opening this week and shoppers are already showing up and marvelling at the bigger, brighter
space.
And unlike many other thrift stores, the Eagle Ridge Hospital Auxiliary's shop doesn’t smell dusty.
That’s thanks to a deep cleaning and a renovation that took place over sev-
eral weeks since the store acquired the space from Hemp Hemp Hooray, which relocated.
Worwood said the all-volunteer workers have been busy organizing the space to put clothing and home
decor to better advantage.
“We have great staff who like things to look nice,” said Worwood.
Here’s what you'll find in the new addition:
• A carpeted and elegant boutique area where people
can peruse racks of clothes and try them on in a change room located nearby
• A large children’s area offers several shelves of toys and books, while, across the aisle, well-stocked shelves display glasses, plates, silver-
ware and art
In the original part of the store, you’ll find clothing, books and seasonal items, including decor for Valentine’s Day and costume jewelery.
'PRICED WELL'
Worwood said re-sellers frequent the store to find unique items to sell online, and goods are carefully researched before they are priced.
“Our customers know that everything is priced well,” she added.
But there are deals to be had as well this reporter purchased a cute, cotton flowered beach bag and a small appetizer serving dish for $7.50 including tax.
Worwood said the store is popular with seniors over 50 who come by on Tuesdays for special deals.
“You don't have to be ancient to shop.” Warwood said.
There's also a loyalty stamp card for $5 off after five purchases.
Meanwhile, volunteers are busy cleaning the store, handling the cash desk or sorting items in the back room.
“It’s where all the magic happens,” Worwood joked.
Youngmagician’ssuccessisnosleightofhand
Gabriella Lester embarking on European tour
There’s a collection/ shrine of Gabriella Lester's magical accomplishments displayed proudly in her family's living room.
It consists of membership certificates for prestigious magic circles, mementos from past performances and a sparkling pair of high heels.
On the bottom shelf is a framed taping booklet along with a contestant's pass from Lester's first appearance on national television.
And since her Las Vegas TV appearance, Lester is looking forward to exploring where she can solidify a long career in magic.
For the 18-year-old “Diva of Deception,” it's just a matter of figuring out where to start.
“When I decided I wanted to do magic, I set all these goals that I will choose in life,” Lester told the Tri-City News. “It’s like, they're happening a lot sooner than I
expected, which is great. It also means that I have to figure out where I want [to go], but I think I'm in a good position now where it's just taking opportunities as they come.”
Recently, Lester pulled off one of the most thrilling performances of her young career to date attempting to trick a pair of the world's
greatest magicians.
Penn and Teller: Fool Us is a show on the CW network that gives magicians the opportunity to shock the famous illusionists and earn a slot as the opening act for their Las Vegas show.
Lester was invited to appear on the program, performing an escape from a straitjacket, but with a twist.
Prior to hanging upside down in the jacket, she asked Penn to pick a flash card with a math equation and remember it.
Lester was then hoisted into the air and got out of the jacket in less than 30 seconds.
While doing so, she made Penn answer a deck of math flash cards out loud as Teller
stood by to watch her escape.
But before her act was over, Penn didn't find his equation. Luckily, Lester revealed it written in big numbers on her shirt.
How did she do it?
Well, the Heritage Woods Secondary grad wouldn’t say. Penn and Teller didn’t reveal her secret either;
that’s the magicians’ code.
But the seasoned pros did have positive comments about her act, her presence on stage and bubbly personality. They said she has the right stuff to pursue a career in magic.
Lester admits she’s always nervous when she takes the stage.
“But you can’t let the nerves override you,” she said.
Lester’s ability to fool Penn and Teller was all the more remarkable because it was a new act she’d developed with her mentor, Shawn Farquhar, a threetime alumnus of the show.
"I've done the straitjacket thing, but the act itself was my first time performing it, because we built it for the show,” she said.
With her television appearance behind her, Lester’s next step is to perform in Europe. This month, she’s headed to Scotland and Spain.
“I want to travel and see the world, and perform while I do it,” Lester said, adding her parents have been fully supportive of her illusionist intentions, even flying out to see her act.
“It’s not their world in the slightest, but they’ve embraced it.”
For more photos follow us on Instagram #tricitynews
EbyhelpedclearwayforFirstNations’deal
He wasn’t even the B.C. premier yet, but a government decision announced by then-attorney general David Eby back in 2021 may prove to have a longer-lasting impact beyond much of what he does while in the premier’s office.
On July 28, 2021, Eby announced the province would not be appealing a BC Supreme Court ruling that concluded the Blueberry River First Nations’ treaty rights for hunting, fishing and trapping had been violated by years of industrial activity (oil and gas exploration and timber
harvesting) on their traditional territory.
Until Eby’s announcements, B.C. governments of all political stripes would automatically appeal any court judgment like that one.
Not this time.
Instead of appealing, the government got down to serious negotiations with the Blueberry River First Nations to answer and resolve the court’s concerns.
The result of opting to negotiate was on view in January: a historic agreement that may fundamentally alter land steward-
ship and resource development in this province.
The agreement makes the Blueberry River First Nations an equal partner in land use planning and resource development on their territory.
Oil and gas exploration and extraction will still be allowed, albeit at potentially lower levels. Timber harvesting will also be allowed, but again with fewer trees being felled.
A number of senior industry representatives from both the energy and forestry sectors attached their names (with quotes)
to the news release announcing the agreement, an indication perhaps that the industrial sector realizes we are entering a brand new era when it comes to natural resource extraction in this province.
A series of court rulings have made it clear that First Nations’ interests must be accommodated when land use decisions are made.
The enshrinement into B.C. law of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples further entrenches this new way of doing
things.
This shift doesn’t come without significant costs. Blueberry River will receive more than $350 million in financial assistance and land restoration costs, plus a share of natural gas revenues.
When Eby made his surprise announcement of no appeal back in July 2021, there was a degree of uncertainty regarding the path forward from it.
The Blueberry River agreement now provides a clear view of that path.
Keith Baldrey is the chief political reporter for Global BC.
Graham Newspaper Excellence 2020 - FIRST PLACE Fundedby heGovernmentofCanada A13 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 TRICITYNEWS.COM Find a variety of voices online: tricitynews.com/opinion
YOUR LETTERS
Gentle density must be in plan
The Editor: Kudos to Premier David Eby for taking steps to cure our failing health system, but I want to bring attention to the failures in his housing policy.
I believe in gentle density to provide housing. Eby’s push for affordable housing will destroy our Lower Mainland cities by bringing density to every scrap of available land.
This will result in loss of trees, destruction of neighbourhoods, streets crowded with fossil fuel-burning vehicles and grey wastelands of towers that will be heat islands for the vulnerable.
In Coquitlam, under BC’s housing-density policy,
a small forest of trees was clear-cut to make way for two towers. Not one of the 100-year-old trees was saved trees that capture one tonne of carbon each in their lifetime and had provided shade for the less affluent in
the city centre.
Children need nature to flourish; skyscrapers aren’t conducive to a child’s health.
Residents need green space and parks with the estimated population increase, places like Stanley
Park and Sasamat Lake will be overcrowded
It will be “The Tragedy of the Commons” where all the special places become so overused that they are no longer special to us.
Beware of what you support!
The housing policy, although excellent in some aspects, is very much like the urban renewal policy of the 1960s. Jane Jacobs would not approve of cities that replace gentle density with skyscrapers.
There is another way. The government in its haste has not taken steps to evaluate alternate solutions.
Yvonne Harris CoquitlamThe Editor: My pet peeve is estimated time parking.
I feel like it is bordering on outright criminal that multi-million dollar organizations are permitted to operate ungoverned with their fee-charging practices.
Here is an example: On Jan. 13, I had to go to the Eagle Ridge Hospital. I drove around quite a bit because there were no spots available.
Eventually a car pulled
out and I took that spot.
Not knowing exactly how long I would be in the hospital I pre-paid for two hours. But I came back after 55 minutes therefore, I paid one hour that I did not need.
In most cases one cannot tell how long that parking spot is needed and there is no flexibility or allowance for that. Many people I talk to are in agreement.
Heinz Stein CoquitlamNew Bettie Allard YMCA is open to members
Built by partnership between City and Concert Properties
JANIS CLEUGHjcleugh@tricitynews.com
Tri-City residents now have a new place to swim, workout and socialize
The YCMA opened the doors to its Bettie Allard facility in Burquitlam last week with nearly 3,000 members who signed up for the early-bird rates
Located close to the Burquitlam SkyTrain station, the 55,000 sq ft venue is a partnership between the City of Coquitlam and Concert Properties, an area
developer
FEATURES INCLUDE
• an indoor pool
• a gym with pickleball lines
• fitness studios
• a walking track
• strength and conditioning zones
As well, there’s a family centre, childminding and
gathering spaces at a café, plazas and a rooftop terrace
The centre is open from Monday to Friday from 5:30 a m to 10 p m , and on the weekends and holidays from 7 a m to 9 p m
A variety of memberships are available; however, for Coquitlam residents, the YMCA has a special Coquitlam Resident Access
Rate, which guarantees 30 hours per week in the pool plus 13 hours per week of fitness
Heidi Worthington, president and CEO of the YMCA BC, said the Burquitlam “Y” wouldn’t have gone up without the help of the city, Concert Properties, donors and volunteers
‘INCLUSIVE CENTRE’
“Creating a welcoming, safe and inclusive centre of community is just as important to the YMCA as our high-quality programs and services,” she said in a release
“Now that we are open, we look forward to welcoming people of all ages, stages, backgrounds and abilities to the Bettie Allard YMCA, supporting their journey to live healthier, happier lives, and providing them with the quality experience they deserve and we expect to deliver at the YMCA”
Meanwhile, construction is currently underway on the “Heart of Burquitlam” at and around the Burquitlam Plaza strip mall, which is owned by Morguard Investments and will also be re-developed Once complete, the “Heart of Burquitlam” will include:
• a 3,700 sq ft community police station
• a 222-stall underground parkade (including spots for park and ride)
• 2 55 acres of new parkland, the expansion of Cottonwood Park and a redesigned Burquitlam Park
• two residential towers including 55One, a rental tower with 308 homes 100 of them non-market rental suites run by 43 Housing Society (move-ins start April 1) and Myriad, a 50-storey tower with 468 condos Visit BettieAllardYMCA ca for more details about the recreation complex and its programming
SweetsandtreatstosupportUgandansafehaven
Abetavu founders to build daycare for special needs
JANIS CLEUGH jcleugh@tricitynews.comTheir work was hard enough before the pandemic hit.
But when the COVID-19 virus spread across the world in 2020, the African country of Uganda shut the doors to institutions preventing even its youngest and most vulnerable citizens from accessing core services.
“Our whole community went backward,” said Port Coquitlam’s Carli Travers, who runs an 11-acre educational and support centre with her husband, Robert
Birungi, called Abetavu. “It felt like it was all for nothing.”
Now, the parents to six biological children and many more adopted in Birungi’s homeland say they’re trying to bring some normalcy back to the safe
haven they opened 15 years ago and build awareness in Canada about Abetavu.
On Feb. 18, the pair will return to the Riverside Community Church in Port Coquitlam to celebrate the milestone and raise funds through a des-
sert night: Cannoli King, DesignerCookies, Cassandra Cake Co. and Cakes n Sweets have signed on to offer treats at the special event that starts at 7 p.m. Travers, who attended B.C. Christian Academy in
PoCo and Douglas College in Coquitlam, said Uganda is struggling as it makes its way out of the pandemic “and more needs to be done on the ground,” she said, noting Birungi recently returned from Abetavu.
“We need to give as much support as we can.”
Among the centre’s goals is to build a daycare for children with special needs, who often are stigmatized for their disabilities.
Travers hopes to collect $35,000 from the sixth annual dessert night the same as in November 2019 to sponsor the programs and services at Abetavu because Ugandan officials “see no value in education right now…. And there needs to be an opportunity for the kids to have a better future.”
Travers said the dessert
night will not include a silent auction this time around; instead, there will be:
• speeches
• a table to sell Ugandan crafts (supporting the Abetavu women in the village)
• a live Fund-A-Need.
Mostly, “the focus will be on celebrating all the amazing things over the past 15 years and looking forward to our future.”
Tickets for the Abetavu Dessert Night are $15 via abetavu.eventbrite.ca. To make a donation to the charity’s Fund-a-Need, go to https://linktr.ee/ abetavu (when making a donation, where it says FUND, scroll down to Abetavu). Tax receipts will be issued under Canadian Charity Classrooms for Africa.
Newonlinemapisflushwithflushinginfo
certain neighbourhoods to maintain drinking water quality during the winter
Coquitlam is assuring residents who have cloudier-than-normal tap water that everything is alright
Jonathan Helmus, the city’s utilities director, said crews are carrying out annual pipe flushing across
Current water main flushing is taking place in River Springs, as well as the area of David Avenue and Noons Creek Drive
And to inform property owners of when their home’s tap water could be next to see some discolouration,
JoinintheMagicduring LightsatLafarge
Coquitlam city staff have created a new online map that shows when flushing is set to happen next
As of today (Feb 2), households near Scott Creek stretching east from the intersection of Panorama Drive and Parkway Boulevard to Robson Drive and Pipeline Road are listed as “upcoming” for flush
work
Changes in water pressure, discolouration and noticeable sediment in tap water is to be expected because of the city’s work But Helmus said it will be for only a short period of time
“Water main flushing involves moving large volumes of water through distribution
pipes to clean out sediment and mineral buildup,” he said in a news release
“Flushing is one of the many activities the city uses to maintain its high standard of drinking water, including rigorous testing and monitoring, proactive maintenance and innovative problem solving”
Coquitlam flushes are conducted between fall and spring, covering roughly 33 per cent of city water mains, rotating neighbourhood by neighbourhood each year, Helmus said
“The city also uses automated systems to regularly flush out dead-end water mains to prevent chlorine buildup, and to monitor the water quality in streams and from construction sites,” he added
The city said cloudy tap water is still safe to drink, but homeowners can easily fix it even while crews conduct
EnhanceyourexperiencewhilevisitingLightsat Lafarge.We’llbehostingactivitiesnightlyTuesdaysto SaturdaysuntilFeb 21,rainorshine
Visitcoquitlam.ca/parksparktoviewthefullschedule
Tuesday,Feb.7–Adornyourbrightestoutfitandjoin usforadancepartyaroundthelake
Wednesday,Feb.8–Discoverlocalpollinators throughoutthelitfloraandfaunaatLafargeLake
Thursday,Feb.9–Explorethelightdisplayand completethescavengerhunttowinaprize.
Friday,Feb.10–Playlight-upFrisbeeorbadminton,or tryourlightedwalkingpoles
MackinParkWinter LightDisplay
their flushes
Helmus advises running the cold-water tap in the bathtub to “avoid clogging up faucet screens” and to run it for a few minutes until it’s clear
If it’s still cloudy, he encourages residents to let the water run for 30 minutes straight
However, residents are strongly advised to not use the hot water until the cold side is clear, to keep cloudy water out of the hot water tank
Coquitlam drinking water flows from the North Shore and Coquitlam mountains, through the local watersheds and into reservoirs, where it’s microfiltered before being sent through the regional pipe system
For more information and an active water main flushing map, you can visit the City of Coquitlam’s website at coquitlam ca
Boatlaunchto closefordredging
Tri-City boaters are going to have to find another location to launch their craft beginning
Feb 6
The work is scheduled to be completed by Feb 17
Don’tforgettocheckoutthewinter lightsdisplayatMackinPark(1046 BrunetteAve.)inthemainplazaarea atthenorthendofthepark.
ThankYouLightBrigadeVolunteers
ThisweekwewanttorecognizetheCityofCoquitlamstaff whobringourcharactermascots(likeSparky)tolife!
Thankyoutoallofthecommunitygroupsthathavehosted nightswiththeParkSparkteam,creatingmemorable experiencesforall!Curioushowyoucangetinvolved? Emailparkspark@coquitlam.catolearnmore
Saturday,Feb.11–Comeone,comeall!Tryyourhand atsomefunValentine’sDay-themedgamesattheTD CommunityPlaza. |
That’s when the boat ramp, docks and boat trailer parking area at Port Moody’s Rocky Point Park will be closed to allow for dredging of the navigational channel
The popular pier is also expected to be closed intermittently
The dredging of sediment that naturally settles into the navigational channel and around the boat ramp is normally done every five to six years to ensure there’s an adequate depth for vessels that use the facility as well as prevent damage to the dock and pier It was last done in 2016
Search local events. Farmers Markets
F E B . 3 – 5 , 2 0 2 3
AScottishdragqueen,LatingroovesattheLegion
FRIDAY, FEB. 3
LIGHTS NIGHT
There are two weeks left to tour Lights at Lafarge, the City of Coquitlam’s free outdoor show at Town Centre Park (1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam) Presented by Coquitlam Centre, the nearly one million lights are on from dusk to 11 p m nightly until Feb 21 Tonight, dress up in your favourite Frozen costume for the theme night and, on Saturday, the city's Park Spark team will also host Light It Up Sports from 5:30 to 8:30 p m at the TD Community Plaza
MORE: coquitlam.ca/ lights
THANK MOUNTIES
It’s RCMP Appreciation Night at the Palace where, at 7 p m , the Coquitlam Express hockey players pay tribute to the cops The game at the Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex (633 Poirier St., Coquitlam) is against the Alberni Valley Bulldogs.
MORE: coquitlamexpress.ca
SATURDAY, FEB. 4
BE PREPARED
Sign up for a free threehour course on Personal
Preparedness and Basic Fire Suppression as part of the City of Port Coquitlam’s emergency preparedness
outreach Participants must be at least 16 years old The event is from 9 a m to 12:30 p m in Firehall #1
REGISTER: portcoquitlam.ca
REPAIR CAFE
Volunteers at the monthly Repair Cafe in Port Coquitlam will fix your broken household items bicycles, jewelry, electronics, appliances and toys at the Public Works yard (1737
Broadway St.) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
EMAIL: repaircafe@ gmail.com
POMO’S FUTURE
Join a roundtable discussion about the future of Port Moody. The city is hosting a community dialogue session as it renews its Official Community Plan, a blueprint for growth focusing on parks, transportation and housing over the next 30 years. The talk at the Port Moody Recreation Complex (300 Ioco Rd.) is from 2 to 4 p.m. Free childcare will be
available on a first-come, first-served basis Visit engage portmoody ca
REGISTER:604-469-4556
SCOTTISH DRAG
Actor Mike Delamont returns to Coquitlam with a third iteration of God Is A Scottish Drag Queen. The comedy runs at the Evergreen Cultural Centre (1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam) from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $35/$32/$16 via the box office.
MORE: evergreenculturalcentre.ca
BUENAS NOCHES
Move your hips to the Latin beats at the Salsa Night hosted by the Hot Salsa Dance Zone. The beginners lesson in the Port Coquitlam Legion (2675 Shaughnessy St.) starts at 8 p.m.; the dance party runs until midnight. Admission is $15.
MORE: hotsalsadancezone.com
SUNDAY, FEB. 5
WEEDING TIME
Help the City of Port Moody take out invasive plants from Shoreline Park
at Pigeon Cove The work party is from 9:30 to 11:30 a m Meet by the Shoreline Trial sign (northern side of Murray Street, halfway between Klahanie Drive East and West) and wear old clothes to get dirty The event is rain or shine; gloves, eye protection and tools will be supplied by the city’s environment and parks staff
REGISTER:604-469-4556
WINTER MARKET
Ca Croustille Bakery, Loulouz Kitchen and Ocean’s Edge Seafoods are among the vendors at this week’s Port Moody Winter Farmers Market, on from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parking lot next to the Port Moody Recreation Complex (300 Ioco Rd.). Don’t forget to bring your grocery bags!
MORE: makebakegrow. com
FAMILY DAY AT PDA
Tour Place des Arts (1120 Brunette Ave., Coquitlam) and its galleries during Family Day at PdA and create some art with the artists from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Maillardville venue. All ages are welcome for the free program; however, registration is encouraged.
MORE: placedesarts.ca
For more photos follow us on Instagram #tricitynews
Theftsofcatalyticconvertersaregoingup
Mechanic says stolen converters are sent offshore
DIANE STRANDBERG dstrandberg@tricitynews.comLisa Lasby has been getting a lot of advice since she woke up on a recent Sunday morning with a noisy car
In the dead of night, someone stole the catalytic converter off her 2010 Hyundai Tuscon, upsetting a busy day of chores and errands for herself and her family.
Now she’s stuck dealing with ICBC, repair shops and a rental car dealer and she may have to contribute to some of the costs above her $300 deductible because of depreciation.
She’s worried she might have to pay as much as $1,000 or 50 per cent for a new catalytic converter unless a second-hand one can be found, which takes time.
“That wasn’t something I was expecting,” Lasby said. “It’s super inconvenient.”
The Coquitlam resident, who lives near Como Lake Village, was one of at least four Coquitlam residents who had their catalytic converter stolen over the weekend, according to reports on the Coquitlam Community Facebook page.
There appears to be no end in sight to the frustrating problem.
According to ICBC figures, the number of catalytic converter theft claims in Coquitlam grew from four in 2015 to 113 in the first six months of 2022.
In 2021, cat thefts hit an all time high of 181 in Coquitlam, with ICBC payouts totalling nearly
$300,000
With numbers increasing dramatically each year, the record will likely be broken again in 2023
Meanwhile, a similar rise in ICBC claims for theft of catalytic converters happened in Port Coquitlam and Port Moody
The problem is so great, residents are starting to take matters into their own hands.
“I’ve been told to contact my MLA,” said Lasby, who would like to see more rules in place to stop scrap dealers from accepting the valuable car part.
One idea is to get a car’s VIN number scratched on to the catalytic converter for easier tracking while in Leduc, Alta., anyone without a permit who has an unattached catalytic converter could be fined $1,000.
Catalytic converters control exhaust emissions to reduce pollutants, but they have been a target for thieves because of an increase in the price of metals they contain.
Last spring, the B.C. government changed the regulations for metal dealers and recyclers to require them to report each transaction, including seller information, to police.
However, a mechanic who owns a repair shop in the Tri-Cities, and asked that his name not be used for security reasons, said catalytic converters are more likely being shipped directly out of the Port of Vancouver to China.
“It’s a gang problem,” he said, likening the issue to past money laundering troubles in B C casinos, and wants more enforcement of outgoing shipments
His shop is not an ICBCdesignated vendor, but he
often gets calls from people who need a solution right away so they can drive their vehicles.
In some cases, he simply puts in a straight pipe, which makes the car noisy, until the part comes in and the vehicle can be completely repaired.
He dealt with one woman who was about to be mar-
ried and needed the use of her 2018 Mitsubishi so he was able to arrange for the part, and covered the cost himself for more than two months, until ICBC paid the woman back.
In the woman’s case, she wasn’t allowed to put an after market catalytic converter into her car, which added to costs and delays.
“It’s disgusting how this is being handled,” the shop owner said.
ICBC maintains that claims are not routinely delayed; however, processing time can depend on the availability of parts.
“Typically, a customer can expect to have the work completed and the claim paid within a few weeks of
reporting the claim,” stated media spokesperson Greg Harper in an email.
Coquitlam RCMP has also reported on the problem, noting in 2021 a bump in the number of catalytic converter thefts
On the RCMP website, there are a number of tips
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Victimsaysshelearnedlesson
COQUITLAM
preventing catalytic converter thefts are provided, including how to park to make it difficult to get access to your car
Lasby said she learned her lesson
She said her Tuscon is usually tucked into the carport, but for various reasons,
was left in the middle of the driveway where the thief was able to get under the vehicle and make the cut, snatch the car part, in just 30 seconds
“I should have put it up on blocks that would have made it even easier”
Here are the Tri-City catalytic converter thefts for 2020–2022:
2020 : 73, claim value
- $155,809
2021: 181, claim value
- $298,394
2022 (first six months) 113, claim value
- $269,501
PORT COQUITLAM
2020: 26, claim value
- $48,680
2021: 65, claim value
- $166,778
2022 (first six months): 42, claim value - $102,457
PORT MOODY
2020: 5, claim value
- $7,632
2021: 15, claim value
- $23,846
2022 (first six months): Nine, claim value - $20,252
Port Coquitlam is looking for 100 past royal party members to join the iconic May Day parade this year
The event will help mark the centennial milestone of the long-standing festival celebrating spring in the city
Each alumnus from the royal party will receive a sash with the year that they were part of the May Days festival and will be part of the city’s float in the parade as part of this historic celebration
PoCo will also be launching a variety of contests and activities leading up to the 100th annual event, scheduled for May 5 to 13
Find out more at PortCoquitlam ca/ MayDays
Residents and visitors will experience several fun events, including the May Day opening ceremony kick-off on May 5, 7:30 p m at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre (PCCC)
It will feature maypole dancing by local
children, dance performances and the presentation of the 2023 May Day Royal Party
The main parade starts at 11 a m on May 13 in downtown Port Coquitlam
Groups and individuals interested in being a part of the parade can apply online by April 13
The 2022 parade featured 100 participants and was enjoyed by 12,000 spectators Party in the Square at the Terry Fox Hometown Square (PCCC) will follow the parade
Highlights include:
• Live entertainment
• Food trucks and beverage garden
• Free kids and youth zone
• Interactive art zone
• Mayday market and community displays
There’s also a wide variety of sponsorship opportunities
Local businesses, groups and individuals can apply on the May Days page of the City of Port Coquitlam’s website until Mar 17, 2023
Q A
A
LocalPROS Q&A
Andrea Gortarez, Owner Floor Coverings InternationalYour questions answered by Trusted Local Professionals
Floor Covering EXPERT
How do I know if my neighbor’s floor is right for me?
Sometimes we want to replicate the lovely floor our neighbour or friend just got. But before taking that big step of replacing our floors, it is crucial to consider some important facts of our lifestyle and household, other than looks or budget Here are some questions to answer:
1 Where do I want the floor to be laid? Basement, kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, etc
2 How is the moisture in such areas? Flooding risk?
3 Frequency of use? Kids bathroom vs powder room
4 What is the favourite texture under my feet? Am I very sensitive to cold surfaces?
5 How much time and effort do I really have to care for my floors?
6 Do I or other family member have mobility issues or specific needs?
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9 Direct sunlight? Extreme weather? Climate controlled? Interior/ Exterior?
With this basic information you help your floor provider to pick the adequate product for your own specific needs
778-897-3500
www.floorcoveringsinternational.com
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PresidentLocalPRO of the month
Why come to NewWest Dentureworks?
Welcome to New West Dentureworks inc, your local Denture Clinic in the heart of New Westminster Quan Gifford, R D (Denturist) along with her friendly knowledgeable staff is dedicated to making every visit to our office a great experience
Quan is the owner and operator of New West Dentureworks and has been a full active member of the Denturist Association of BC for the past 23 years She is committed to providing quality care in our community Her private Denture Clinic provides a multitude of denture related services directly to the public Anything from replacing a single tooth to full arch replacement with removable dentures or provide recommendations on fixed solutions She has close relationships with many local Dentists and does her best to make your experience as smooth and comfortable as possible Very informative and organized to ease with your transition Her office is dedicated to providing patients of all ages with a welcoming, anxiety free environment
Affectionately known as“Your Local Denturist,”Quan Gifford is widely recognized as a leading Denturist who is responsible for creating smiles in our community Your smile is your most important feature and your business card to the world One of her many patients left a Google review that writes,“Quan is so professional and has a nice personal touch She and her staff are very lovely and are so kind” - Sundquist-
Another writes,“Felt totally comfortable in that office She was very good at explaining everything I had my final appointment this morning She is absolutely amazing She made me feel at ease from the moment I saw her! She is kind, caring and compassionate I will be forever indebted to her for giving me my Smile back!” -Nanji-
You can take your time and read many more Google reviews when you search for “New West Dentureworks”and view her gallery of before and after photos of her patients on her website at www newwestdentureworks com
QMy New Year’s
604-553-1222 www.newwestminsterdenturist.com
When Quan Gifford is away from her busy Denture office, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends She is a proud mother of three beautiful children and wife to one handsome charming fella The first step towards a beautiful, healthy smile is to schedule an appointment
QWhat are the first signs of hearing loss and what could be the causes?
Start with our podcast,“It’s Personal Finance Canada” that’s available on all major hosting platforms
Already we’re in the top 5% of most followed podcasts globally on Spotify, not too bad for a couple of Canadians If you want to get information and be entertained in the process, check it out!
If you’re looking for more hands-on advice or have something specific you’d like to explore, we can help with financial goal setting with action steps, financial planning, insurance, investments, health & dental as well as retirement or estate planning. It’s nice to have a professional tell you if you’re on track to meeting your goals or what you would need to do to achieve them We’re there to help you every step of the way, through the different stages of life
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ADo you often ask people to repeat? Are you having trouble hearing at restaurants? Does your family say your TV is turned up loud? If you’ve answered yes to any of these, it’s likely you’re having some early symptoms of hearing loss Hearing loss associated with aging, called presbycusis, is the most common cause of hearing loss, and onset can be as early as the late 30s Other common causes include noise exposure from working in industrial noise (e g construction); middle ear issues (e g ear infections); ototoxicity (certain medications); and family history of hearing loss
Like any health condition, the key to successful management is early intervention I encourage everyone to get a baseline hearing assessment, just like you would for your eyes and your teeth Even if you don’t have any hearing concerns, it’s never too early to be educated on healthy hearing!
Q A
I just bought beautiful shades from Budget Blinds, how do I clean them?
If you have a cellular or honeycomb shade, Dust them with a feather duster, or lightly vacuum with an upholstery attachment For dust inside the cells, a blow dryer on the lowest, cool air setting will blow the dust-out Clean with a sponge and a mild detergent/warm water solution and blot dry Dry cleaning and ultrasonic cleaning are not recommended Extra care should be used when cleaning opaque/blackout fabrics, as the fabrics could become permanently creased
If you have a Solar shade, to keep them clean you would Lightly vacuum both sides of shade using a brush or upholstery attachment Softly brush with a mild detergent and warm water solution Rinse thoroughly and allow the shade to dry completely before raising it. Do not immerse them in water.
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www.networkhearing.ca
Unit
February 17 - March 12
CentennialSecondarygetsloudwith‘RockofAges’
Musical about the late ‘80s in L.A. told through rock songs
JANIS CLEUGH
jcleugh@tricitynews.com
Centennial Secondary goes back to 1987 next month, when the hair was big and the music bigger For its winter production, the Coquitlam high school is shining a light on the musical Rock of Ages, telling the
story about a small-town girl pursuing her Hollywood dreams
Sherrie Christian follows her heart to the Bourbon Club on Sunset Strip, where she meets Drew Boley
And, despite the twists about the club’s future, the pair and others is united in hard rock tunes
“There’s a lot of music in the show,” said Grade 12 student Katrina Kreschuk, who plays a Bourbon employee named Lonny Barnett “It’s a lot of fun to perform and
listen to”
The cast of 25 musical theatre students started rehearsals for Rock of Ages last October, including vocal training with Carole Baker, who is now retired as the music teacher Among the ’80s anthems they learned are “Sister Christian, “Every Rose Has Its Thorn" and "Don't Stop Believin' "
Amber Hipditch, Grade 12, said she prepared for the character of Sherrie Christian by watching YouTube videos of profes-
sional and high school productions of Rock of Ages A former student of Lindbjerg Academy of Performing Arts, Hipditch, 18, is also the show choreographer Hanbin Cho, who portrays the club owner Dennis Dupree, said Rock of Ages is his first high school musical “I saw Centennial’s show last year and I was just blown away It was really exciting and entertaining I knew I wanted to be a part of it this year,” the Grade 11 student said As for William
Glukler, a Grade 10 student who plays the rock star Stacee Jaxx, he relishes the role
“Stacee is really past his prime He adores attention and he really likes to bring the house down”
Directed by Grade 12 student Talia Petrescu, who plays Drew, Rock of Ages runs in the school theatre at Centennial Secondary (570 Poirier St., Coquitlam) on Feb. 9, 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18. For tickets at $15/$12, visit centmusical.brownpaper-
NOW SHOWING
Other upcoming Tri-City school shows:
• Riverside Secondary: Little Women Feb 2, 3, 4, 9, 10 and 11
• Pinetree Secondary: Matilda Feb 1, 2, 3, 8, 9 and 10
• Archbishop Carney Regional Secondary: Arsenic and Old Lace March 2 to 4
Jewishbookfestivalandaworkshopforplaywrights
A Tri-City author is part of this year’s Jewish Book Festival
Karen McKinlay
Kurnaedy will appear at the annual event, which runs from Feb 11 to 16 in Vancouver
Kurnaedy will be at Literary Quickie on Feb 12, where eight writers have five minutes to pitch their books
Her work, titled Our Love Affair with Dance, is a biography about early modern dance in Vancouver and describes the lives of Jewish dance artists Magda and Gertrud Hahn, two sisters who opened a school in the 1950s. She'll be joined by the following authors:
• Leo Burstyn (You May Call Me Lance: A Tale of Lancelot the Most Noble Cat)
• Laura Duhan-Kaplan (Mouth of the Donkey: ReImagining Biblical Animals)
• George Halpern (From School To Sky: Joseph’s Tale of War)
• Helga Hatvany (Dreams, Nightmares and Reality)
• Gloria Levi (The
Hotelkeeper’s Daughter)
• Eliana Tobias (When We Return)
• Marjie Zacks (It All Ends Up in a Parfait Glass: A Tribute to My Mother’s Wisdom)
The 38th annual JCC Jewish Book Festival opens on Feb. 11 with a presentation from Gabor Maté, who recently came out with The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture, at the JCC (950 West 41st St., Vancouver).
Visit www.jccgv.com/jewish-book-festival for more details. You can also get tickets by calling 604-257-5111.
PLAYWRIGHTS
If you’ve wanted to write a screen play or a short skit, but never had the chance, the Tri-City Wordsmiths has a workshop to help you get the creative juices flowing.
On Saturday (Feb. 4), playwright, journalist, historical novelist, poet and writing instructor Ruth
Kozak will be at the Terry Fox Library (2150 Wilson Ave , Port Coquitlam) for an in-person session called “The Play’s the Thing: How to Create One” Registrants can also tune in online for the presentation, which includes Jay Hamburger, the artistic director of Theatre in the Raw, a Vancouver-based company. And, at the end of the workshop, participants will be invited to pen a oneact play.
A prolific travel writer, Kozak started her writing career at the Vancouver Sun Her writing credits, as
well as her blog links, can be viewed via ruthkozak com
Spokesperson Pandora
Ballard said it’s the first time the Tri-City Wordsmiths has hosted a playwrighting event
To register, email tri city wordsmiths@gmail.com.
FESTIVAL CASH
Coquitlam council has a goal to reignite community spirit, and believes local community events can be the catalyst.
In a release, the city said it's providing $200,000 for organized gatherings this year.
Darryl Lal, Coquitlam's
policy and business services manager, said the money will be allocated through the sponsorship reserve, which supports 14 events on the city's 2023 calendar, and will pay for entertainment, activities and prizes
This includes programs like July 1/Canada Day celebrations, the Kaleidoscope Arts Festival and the Lights at Lafarge kick-off party Lal said, since 2014, the city's corporate partners program has allocated more than $1 million to enhance local events in the community. Visit the city website for more details.
StoryofMarchsistersretoldin‘LittleWomen’musical
River's Edge Theatre mounts
American classic
JANIS CLEUGH jcleugh@tricitynews.comThe pandemic made them rethink their choice of show.
Seeing the enrolment dwindle for the Musical Theatre 10–12 class at Port Coquitlam’s Riverside Secondary, the students with the school’s River’s Edge Theatre last May pitched a smaller production for 2023.
Why not the musical Little Women? they asked drama teacher Nicole Roberge at the time. After all, the cast would be mostly female and there would be 30 actors not 60 to double-cast the 15 roles.
“It’s very different from previous pieces we’ve done at Riverside,” Roberge said. “It’s a lot more intimate.”
Last fall, following an
audition, Roberge selected Grade 12er Sophia Dato and Scarlett Stratton, a Grade 11 student who also trains at the Lindbjerg Academy of Performing Arts in the Rising Stars Advance program, to
alternate as Jo March, the lead part in Little Women: The Musical.
Based on the semi-autobiographical novels by Louisa May Alcott, written in 1868–69, Little Women is
set at a home in Concord, Mass., and tells the story on the four March sisters:
• Jo, a writer
• Meg, a traditionalist
• Beth, a shy girl
• Amy, the romantic
Their father is serving in the American Civil War.
The work was recast into a musical with a book penned by Allan Knee, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein and music by Jason Howland. The River’s Edge production follows their script; however, there is a gender flip for one character: Professor Bhaer.
“We wanted to bring out the LGBTQ side and make the play as inclusive as possible,” said Stratton, who plans to pursue a career as a neo-natal surgeon in New York City after graduation.
Dato, who’s eyeing the University of ArizonaTempe or Douglas College to train as an elementary school teacher this fall, said Jo March is a character she’s loved since she read the book five years ago. During the pandemic, she also saw the 2019 movie version starring Saoirse Ronan and Florence Pugh. Dato said she connects with the role because she, too, is a writer.
“Jo defies the social
norms of her time,” Stratton added. “She wears pants. She shakes hands with people she’s met. She chops firewood. She wants to be different and do something incredible with her life She’s an inspiration to us all!”
Meanwhile, River’s Edge Theatre will head to New Westminster in May to represent School District 43 and its drama zone at NTS DramaFest, the theatrical competition for high schools around B.C.
The team will present its student-written play I’m Fine at the festival, which is produced in partnership with the Association of B.C. Drama Educators (ABCDE).
Tickets to see "Little Women: The Musical" are $13/$10. The show runs Feb. 2, 3, 4, 9, 10 and 11 at Riverside Secondary (2215 Reeve St., Port Coquitlam).
Visit the school’s website for tickets or visit simpletix.com/e/little-women-the-musical-tickets-121551.
CHAMBER UPDATE
CHAMBER KICKS OFF 2023 WITH ADVOCACY & NETWORKING EVENTS
The Tri-Cities largest business association hit the ground running this year, advocating for public policy that supports a strong economy, and providing Chamber members with opportunities to network and connect. Join us for upcoming events. Tickets at tricitieschamber.com
FEDERAL BUDGET CONSULTATION
On January 18, Chamber representatives met with Coquitlam-Port Coquitlam MP Ron McKinnon to discuss priorities for the federal budget. MP McKinnon listened to concerns and fielded questions on topics including the national debt, prudent controls on spending, a comprehensive review of taxation, affordable housing, food security and food waste, indigenous reconciliation, labour shortages, immigration, employment for people with disabilities, and more
MORNING WITH THE MAYOR
Nearly 30 Chamber members connected with Coquitlam Mayor Richard Stewart at Pasta Polo on January 25 for a small group discussion on the state of the City, and top issues facing businesses and our community. The Chamber will host Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West at Earl's on February 28.
MID-WEEK MEMBER MIXERS
Moody Ales hosted Chamber members for a mixer on January 12, with catering by Ashney's Artisan Co, followed by the John B's mixer on January 18. Get your tickets for the upcoming events at the Cat & Fiddle Pub on February 2, and Cassandra Cake Co. on February 23.
YES TO AUSTIN HEIGHTS BIA
The Chamber issued a statement in support of
the Austin Heights Business Improvement Association as it seeks renewal of its mandate for the next five years. The Chamber and the Austin Heights BIA work collaboratively on events, advocacy, and initiatives to support local business
TRI-CITIES YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
MNP Port Moody hosted the sold-out TCYP Wine Club event on January 27. Don't miss the TCYP Curling Tournament, open to all, on February 18 at the Port Moody Recreation Complex. Register your team today.
TASTE OF THE TRI-CITIES
This much anticipated food and drink festival returns February 17 to March 12. More than 40 restaurants, breweries, and fine establishments near you are participating. Brought to you by the Tri-Local Collective. Visit trilocal.ca.
Juniorcurlerspoweredbyvideogameprowess
PoMo team is headed to U18 nationals in Ont.
MARIO BARTELmbartel@tricitynews.com
An online soccer video game where the players are cars could be key to bringing a junior national championship to the Port Moody Curling Club (PMCC)
Adrian Tam, skip of the PMCC foursome that’s headed to Timmins, Ont , for the under-18 Canadian championships Feb 5–11, said while the team’s coaches have been honing their game on the ice, they’ve been forging their friendship over many hours playing Rocket League
The bond paid off when Tam, lead Harrison Hrynew, second Ethan Chiu and third Austin Tomlinson finished second at provincials in Richmond in December, earning the opportunity to compete at nationals for the first time
While Tam, Chiu and Hrynew all curl out of Port Moody, Tomlinson is from Salmon Arm, meaning the team is only fully together when they’re competing
at bonspiels every second weekend or so
To develop the communication skills and intuitive trust that is a building block to success in the sport, they stay connected as keyboard warriors
Maybe a little too much,
Team will be the 14th franchise in Junior B league
MARIO BARTEL
mbartel@tricitynews.com
Junior hockey is returning to Port Coquitlam
Thanks to Instagram
Rob Toor, a Vancouver lawyer and volunteer coach in the PoCo Pirates minor hockey association, said it was a positive response to a generic PoCo junior hockey account on the social media platform that convinced him the time is right to put a Pacific Junior Hockey League (PJHL) team into the city’s new
said Hrynew when asked how many hours they play
TEAM STRATEGY
Chiu, the consensus video game champion, said the team strategy it takes to be successful in Rocket League transfers to the curling rink
as they learn how each other thinks and reacts under stressful situations
Ken Krause, who coaches the team along with Ken Britz from Chilliwack, said the boys’ friendship makes his job easier
“I’ve coached teams that
don’t like each other and it makes for a long year,” he said
Krause said after the boys finished third at last year’s provincials, just missing their chance to move on to nationals, they took the bit in their teeth to do what it takes
to get their curling to the next level
That’s meant a lot of hours on the ice throwing and sweeping rocks and in the gym working on their cardio, strength and flexibility
“There’s a lot of repetition to develop muscle memory,” he said
Hrynew added they need to have the stamina to be able to keep their sweeping strong and precise through the gruelling schedule of major competitions like nationals where they can play up to three games a day
NOT TOO COCKY
Krause said the team’s attention to detail allows him to direct his energy at smoothing out their mental approach so they can maintain their confidence and not get rattled with things go awry
“We do a lot of talking to build them up, but we don’t want to get cocky,” he said
It’s all about having that belief in themselves and each other, added Tam
“We want to make each other better”
It’s a formula that got them this far, Krause said
“They really feel they belong”
Community Centre
The still-unnamed team will be the 14th franchise in the Junior B league that stretches from North Vancouver to Chilliwack It will begin play next season
The Port Coquitlam Buckaroos played in the same league when it was known as the Pacific International Junior
Hockey League from 1992 to 2006 The team then disembarked from the old Rec Centre to Port Moody, where it still plays as the Panthers
Toor said his experience coaching a U18 rep team in the Pirates minor system showed him there’s a need to provide emerging young players an opportunity to
continue their development close to home So last April he launched the social media campaign to determine if there was enough fan interest to support a junior hockey venture
“There’s amazing passion for hockey in the community,” Toor said following the official announcement Thursday of the new
team at centre ice of the Jon Baillie arena where it will be based “People really want a local team to identify with”
Discussions with the league, City and its minor hockey association commenced to determine how the social media response
Team’s name to be decided in the next month
could be turned into reality
All were supportive, said
Toor
PJHL commissioner
Trevor Alto said the league had been eyeing another team to attain balanced divisions since it revived the old Chilliwack Jets franchise in 2020
He said Toor’s passion, community and civic support as well as the spanking
new 800-seat facility that is one of three arenas at the community centre proved a winning combination
“This facility is a crown jewel,” Alto said, adding Toor’s long-term vision for the team as a community builder fills him with confidence it will be a success.
Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West said he’s been waiting for this day.
He shared his own memories of running up and
City of Coquitlam PUBLIC NOTICE
down the bleachers of the dingy old rec centre, horsing around with his own hockey buddies as the old Buckaroos played on the ice, then heading home with his head full of hockey dreams
“They looked like giants,” he said of the junior hockey players he followed when he was young.
“It really gives you something to be inspired by.”
West said with the recent announcement of a new
high-performance soccer centre to be built at Gates Park, and the completion of the $135-million community centre that’s already hosted visits BCHL and Western Hockey League games and was the training camp base for the Abbotsford Canucks AHL team last September , Port Coquitlam has gained some real sporting momentum.
Having a hockey team residents can call their own
will only push that further along
“Sport brings people together,” he said. “It contributes to community building.”
Toor said now that the franchise his official, his next order of business will be to give it a name. He said so far there’s been support for bringing back the old Buckaroos’ name, as well as linking it to the Pirates’ minor moniker. A final de-
cision will be made by late February or early March.
Toor also announced a special prospects tournament to be held from April 21–23, where coach Greg Ross and general manager Ryan Ross will be able to identify local players ready to take the jump to Junior B. From there, it will be only a matter of filling the seats.
“We want to see 800 roaring, crazy fans every Friday night,” Toor said.
Council Initiative for the Austin Heights Business Improvement Area
In accordance with Section 213 of the Community Charter, notice is hereby provided that City of Coquitlam Council is intending to establish a local area service in relation to a Business Improvement Area in Austin Heights pursuant to sections 210 and 215 of the Community Charter
This notice concerning the creation of a local area service on Council initiative is given pursuant to Section 213(1) of the Community Charter The local area service proposed is the Austin Heights Business Improvement Area (AHBIA)
1 The proposed AHBIA will provide the following business services:
a The encouragement of business in the Business Improvement Area in order to complement and expand the present business mix;
b. The strengthening of businesses in the Business Improvement Area by undertaking beautification projects, partnerships, new marketing strategies, community events and merchandising techniques to promote existing business; and
c The improvement, beautification, maintenance and security of the Business Improvement Area to attract customers and improve community ambiance
2. The business promotions Primary Area will be designed to benefit the area shown outlined in red on the attached map identified as “Schedule A”
3 The estimated cost of the business promotion services will be:
• 2023 = $268,809
• 2024 = $301,066
• 2025 = $331,173
• 2026 = $357,666
• 2027 = $386,280 This will represent, in aggregate, a total amount not exceeding $1,644,994 for the five-year term of the proposed bylaw
4 Land or improvements within the Business Improvement Area shown outlined in red on the attached map identified as “Schedule A” will not be subject to this local service tax unless classified, in whole or in part, as Class
6 (business and other - as defined in the Assessment Act Regulation, B C Reg 438/81), with the exception of those Class 6 properties which have been granted a statutory or permissive exemption under sections 220(1) or 224(1) of the Community Charter
5 100% of the cost of the business improvements will be borne by the benefiting property owners
6 The local service tax will be collected as a property value tax which will be calculated on the basis of each individual Class 6 property’s assessed value in relation to the assessed value of all Class 6 properties in the local service area multiplied by the rate necessary to raise the required funds as set out in Item 3 above
7. The charges will be imposed for a period of five years from January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2027
Council may proceed with the establishment of the AHBIA, unless owners of at least 50% of the parcels, representing at least 50% of the total assessed value of the parcels subject to the local service tax, petition Council not to proceed with the initiative within 30 days after the publication of the final publication of this notice (February 9, 2023)
If you, as an affected property owner in the designated area, support the initiative, you do not have to respond to this notice Any opposition to the initiative by affected property owners must be made by the majority of owners signing and returning the provided petition to the City Clerk’s Office in one of the following ways: (1) in person or by mail to the City Clerk’s Office, City of Coquitlam, 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, BC, V3B 7N2; (2) by email to
clerks@coquitlam ca; or (3) by fax to 604-927- 3015 All petitions must be received no later than 5:00 p.m., Monday, March 13, 2023.
Following the March 13, 2023 deadline, the petitions will be reviewed for sufficiency and validity and presented to Council at a future Council meeting for consideration Depending on the results of this petition process, Council may choose at that time to proceed with a bylaw establishing a Business Improvement Area in the Austin Heights neighbourhood
If you have any questions regarding this petition, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 604-927-3010 For information relating to the AHBIA renewal, please contact Eric Kalnins at 604-927-3912
Katie Karn City Clerk
COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE
REMEMBRANCES EMPLOYMENT
In MeMorIaM
“Our Beautiful Angel”
Brianna Helen Kinnear
June 30, 1986 - February 3, 2009
My daughter - My sister - My friend
We never thought that when we fel as eep one night we would wake up and you wou d be gone forever The fee ings of oss, grief and sadness have not changed from that day fourteen years ago, and no matter how ong t’s been there are t mes when it suddenly becomes harder to breathe
Although we are thankful for the memor es that fill our days, the sound of your aughter, the sparkle in your eyes the vo ce that says “I ove you” and even the sme l of your perfume, we m ss you We wish we could just hug you and you could hug us back; there s st ll so much we want to share with you
The birds still sing, the flowers grow
The breeze still whispers too
But it will never, ever be
The same here without you
Loving and Missing you Forever, Mommy, Daddy, Scott
obItuarIes
It is w th great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Brenda E izabeth Flear, Wednesday January 18th, 2023 n her 66th year Original y from Ontar o, Brenda enjoyed her better years liv ng in Brit sh Co umb a She had a great ove of the outdoors and was always up for an adventure Her love of life and dedication to help ng others wil a ways be remembered
She was a sh n ng l ght to those who knew her She wi l be great y m ssed by her s ster Sharon Crawford (F ear) and Dale Ol ver, by her nieces and nephews Kim and Paul Crosland Ange ique Denn ng, Tony Jordan, Brian and Katrina Darrieu, Duanne Darrieu and Ron Darrieu Predeceased by her parents Walter and Edna Flear (Mills)
Cremation w l take place and nternment w l be in Ontar o For those who w sh, a memor al donation may be made to support a loca homeless she ter
IDLER, William George “Bill”
September 22, 1935 – December 14, 2022
B l passed away December 14 2022 at Ridge Meadows Hosp tal He w ll be lov ngly remembered by fam ly and friends He was predeceased by his first wife Joan His s surv ved by h s wife Maureen, daughters Patt (Dave) and Cathy (Rhett) stepchidren Andrew (Tammy) and Julie (Dave), grandchi dren Damen (Toresa), Dav d (Chelsie), Nevia, Matt, Trevor, Ethan and Ella, great-grandchildren Karra, Ava and Jason, h s half-s sters Loralee (Chris) and D ane, and re atives n Canada, the U S and Germany
B l was born in New Westminster, and was a long time res dent of Port Coquitlam He was a meat inspector for the Federa Government for 30 years He loved history, trave and Dragon Boat ng, relishing his days w th the Dogwood Noth n Drag n, dragon boat team
There wil be a ce ebrat on of ife for Bill in May for friends and family
DrIvers is ooking for DRIVER to deliver bundles to Carriers in the Tri-Cities area
THURSDAYS and DRIVER to deliver papers to Coquitlam Apartments
THURSDAYS Must have re iable van or the ike CALL: 604-472-3040
EMAIL: circulation@ tricitynews com
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CARRIERS NEEDED
Parks de Dr
BUSINESS
Guest St
Harbour St
Nova Scot a Ave
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Chrysta Crt
Dewdney Trunk Rd
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Sharpe St
If you’re interested in delivering the newspaper; Please ca l: Circulation @ 604-472-3040 Or ema l: circulation@tricitynews com
Other routes not listed may be available, please contact our office
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WanteD
CASH for your CLUTTER
JONGKYU (JOHN) KIM
July 22, 1958 - December 27, 2022
It is with the heaviest heart that we announce the passing of Jongkyu (John) Kim of Suzette’s Cafe on December 27, 2022 at Royal Columbian Hospital. John passed away peacefully with all of his dearest family and friends by his side
Many people knew John as the happiest business owner in Port Coquitlam that welcomed every customer with so much love and joy, every day at the shop John loved his work and his wife, whom were inseparable in and outside of work. He is lovingly remembered each and every day by his life partner and wife Sookhee (Sue), and his treasured children Ashley and Sunny, and he is forever in their hearts. John has left a tremendous impact on this community over the past decade and the Kim family is grateful for the endless support and care during this time
PROPERTY MANAGER L censed GLENN COOPER 604-690-8838 westcoasthomesgroup com
REAL
WanteD
I will pay CASH for your UNWANTED ITEMS! spec a ize in RECORDS, Eng ish Bone China & Figur nes, Collectib es, Too s, Ant ques, ETC Rob • 604-307-6715
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