Tri-City News March 16 2023

Morecougars ontheprowl inCoquitlam

Conservation officer says behaviour is normal for this time of the year

DIANE STRANDBERG dstrandberg@tricitynews.com

Al Miller was surprised to see a cougar walking through his suburban neighbourhood just above the old Riverview Lands/səmiqʷəʔelə in Coquitlam

He was coming home from work when he saw the big cat sauntering near his home at the corner of Riverview Crescent and Sylvan Place at 5:30 a m last Tuesday (March 7)

He tried to capture an

image on his dash cam “but it was not to be,” said the local nature enthusiast, who builds warmers for hummingbird feeders as a hobby.

Turns out, Miller isn’t alone in spotting a cougar near his home, and it appears Coquitlam has been a hot spot for cougars lately Multiple reports have been made about cougar sightings through the Report All Polluters and Poachers (RAPP) tip line, according to conservation officer Evelyn Robertson

She confirmed the behaviour is “completely normal” for this time of year when young cougars begin see NO REPORTS, page 4

Gia Mattiazzo, 14, is putting some of the lessons she’s learning in her Grade 9 business class at Centennial Secondary into practice with her Pizzelle Pals venture. She recently arranged to get her thin Italian biscuits on the shelf at Fratelli’s Italian Bakery shops in Vancouver and New Westminster For the story see Page 17. MARIO BARTEL/

PortMoodypoliceblitzdistracteddrivers

March is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

KYLE BALZER

kbalzer@tricitynews.com

The term “distracted driving” is evolving

While using cell phones or electronic devices behind the wheel is still the most common form, police across B C are starting to see other types of distractions that can or have caused crashes in recent years

On March 8, Port Moody police (PMPD) were out in force looking for oblivious vehicle operators at Ioco Road and Barnet Highway (7A) considered one of the most collision-prone intersections in the region over the last five years

Between 2017 and 2021, there were 254 crashes at Ioco Road and Highway 7A that led to property damage and casualties serious or fatal

During the blitz, drivers were pulled over and ticketed under the B C Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) The fine for distracted driving is $582

That’s $368, plus four points against your driver’s license equating to $214

That’s one expensive “quick look” to see who texted you or tagged you on Instagram

“We know statistically, you’re 3 6 times more likely

to be involved in a car crash, if you’re distracted by your phone,” said Kathleen Nadalin, ICBC spokesperson for the Tri-Cities March is Distracted Driving Awareness Month for the corporation in partnership with B C RCMP and police departments

“Our main message is to eliminate all distractions and really do your best to focus on the roadway”

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Cell phones are still the at the forefront of PMPD’s latest initiative, but Const

Sam Zacharias told the Tri-City News officers have seen other activities that fall under the distracted driving category

“We have seen people eat with their two hands and driving with their knees,” he said “That’s distracted driving in a different form and that can carry serious fines as well, like driving without due care If you’re not paying attention to what’s in front of you, that’s a concern”

Pets on drivers’ laps are also becoming more common and can also lead to a $368 ticket and an additional

$360 six-point premium

In an October 2021 incident in B C , a Tesla driver appeared to be sleeping while the electric vehicle was on auto-pilot and were fined for driving without due care

“The reality is, driving is one of the most complicated tasks a lot of people perform on a day-to-day basis, and it can potentially have everlasting effects if something bad happens, like a collision,” said Zacharias

He added while a quick glance at a phone may seem harmless, that split second could court a high-risk driv-

ing situation

“I would say that, you know, distracted driving, certainly an important type of enforcement that we do, but it’s not the only approach that we have,” Zacharias said when asked about prioritizing catching distracted drivers over catching speedsters

“At end of the day, we want to make the roads as safe as possible And, you know, speeding is a major contributing factor to fatal collisions, as is distracted driving”

ICBC data shows, on av-

erage, 23 people are killed in distracted driving-related crashes in the Lower Mainland every year

British Columbia’s deputy premier solicitor general and public safety minister said all drivers in the province need to respect other road users, including cyclists and pedestrials

“Distracted driving is an unacceptable behaviour that endangers the lives of British Columbians with devastating effects for families and communities,” said Mike Farnwarth, who’s also the MLA for Port Coquitlam

Port Moody police recently teamed up with ICBC and volunteers in a blitz to identify distracted drivers at the corner of Ioco Road and Barnet Highway, one of the most collision-prone areas in the region over the past five years. KYLE BALZER/TRI-CITY NEWS

Law Firm Lawyer Don Drysdale

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Noreportsofhumanorpetencounters

to seek their independence by finding and adopting new territory

It’s also common for them to move through Coquitlam, which backs on deep forests and has many greenbelts, said Robertson, with cougars typically making their journey through the city in the early morning hours

While most active at dusk and dawn, a cougar can roam and hunt throughout the day or night in all seasons, according to the International Society for Endangered Cats (IEC) Canada

They have ranges up to 300 sq km and may roam up to 80 km in a single day

“We’ve gotten calls from all around Coquitlam and it’s all cougars that are walking at night which is normal behaviour at this time”

She said more people are

seeing cougars because their homes are equipped with CCTV cameras that capture images of the animals as they make their way through the neighbourhood

They are likely coming from the mountains and using the greenbelts to get around, Robertson said

“That’s a completely normal time to have cougars moving around,” she added

“It’s super beneficial when people call in sightings and so we can see if there are changes in behaviour”

There have been no reports of cougars interacting with humans or pets; instead, the cougars appear to be minding their own business

However, Robertson said it’s important that residents continue to secure attractants That includes keeping their pets indoors and have them on leash if they walk in the evenings and early mornings

The Village of Anmore has a new chief administrative officer (CAO)

Last month, Mayor John McEwen named Karen Elrick to the top job to replace Juli Halliwell, who left last November to become the general manager of corporate services for the City of Burnaby

Previously, Elrick was Anmore’s corporate officer for four years and served as acting CAO for four months before the appointment

MULTI-TASKING

In her new role, Elrick will oversee day-today operations of the 2,500-resident community north of Port Moody, as well as human resources, economic development and public land management for the

village hall, and advise council

“We’re extremely fortunate to have Karen take on this role as she has been an asset to our management team, and her education, experience, leadership skills and knowledge of our community are exactly what we need,” McEwen said in a news release

“While we had several good responses through our extensive recruitment process, it became clear that Karen was the best candidate as she is highly respected in the organization and broader community, and has an exemplary track record as a senior manager in local government”

“In short,” McEwen added, “Karen will be an outstanding CAO for the village”

Cougars are most active between dusk and dawn, accoring to the International Society for Endangered Cats Canada. LEAH HUYGHE/UNSPLASH

What’sNew?

DraftEconomicDevelopmentStrategyAimsfor SharedProsperity,ResponsibleFuture

StaffrecentlypresentedtoCounciladraftEconomicDevelopment StrategyalongwithaproposedImplementationPlan Intendedas aforward-lookingvisionwithpolicyguidanceforthenextfive years,thedocumentsupportsthedevelopmentofaresilientlocal economythatworksforeveryone

Coquitlam’sdraftEconomicDevelopmentStrategyalignswith otherapprovedCityplansandstrategies,andoutlinesaplanto createavibrantregionalandculturalhubnorthoftheFraserRiver Bycoordinatingresources,reducingbarriers,andproviding strategicalignmenttheEconomicDevelopmentStrategyaimsto makeCoquitlamamorevibrantplacetovisit,liveanddobusiness

Thetopfivekeyactionareasforthenexttwoyearsinclude:

• DevelopinganEconomicDevelopmentCompetitivenessStudy

• Creatingnewbusinesspromotionalmarketingmaterials

• Establishingdirectbusinessoutreachprogramsandservices, includingemploymentspacedemandsupportandservicesfor export-orientedbusinesses

• Workingwithpartnerstoattractandaccommodatemajor employersandinstitutionsintoCoquitlam’sCityCentre neighbourhood,aswellasothercommercialareas

• Supportingtheestablishmentofnewbusinessimprovement areas

ThedraftEconomicDevelopmentStrategyandimplementation planareavailabletoreadatcoquitlam.ca/economicdevelopment

BuildinganInclusiveCommunity GrantBoostsAccessibility

Coquitlam’songoingworktoremovebarriersandimproveaccess toCityfacilitiesandserviceswillbesupportedbyaBCAccessibility GrantfromtheRickHansenFoundation TheCitywasoneofeight municipalitiesinBC tobeselectedforthe2023grant,whichwill providestafftraining,upto$82,500foraccessibilityupgrades,and aRickHansenFoundationAccessibilityCertificationatthePoirier SportandLeisureComplex,DogwoodCommunityCentreandthe TownCentreParkCommunityCentre(InnovationCentre).

LearnmoreaboutwhatCoquitlamisdoingtochampionequity, diversityandinclusioninourcommunityatcoquitlam.ca/EDI

FitnessandFun

Areyour2023exercisegoalsontrack?

Keepupwithyourplanstostayactivethisyearbygoingonahike, attendingadrop-insessionorregisteringforaprogram OurParks andRecreationteamoffersanumberofwaystokeepfitnessfun andexciting

CheckoutourSpringProgramGuideforgreatideasonhowto keepthose2023resolutions Visitcoquitlam.ca/programguide

NeighbourhoodNews

VisitUsattheTri-CitySpringHomeShow

MarkyourcalendarfortheTri-CitySpringHomeShowtaking placeMarch24–26atPoirierSportandLeisureComplex (633PoirierSt)

StopbytheCityofCoquitlamboothwherewe’llhavestaff availabletoanswerquestionsandprovideinformationabout manyofourenvironmentalprograms Forexample,learnabout theCity’snewheatpumptop-uprebates,howtomanagewildlife attractants,reducingwaste,conservingwaterandhowtoprepare yourhomeincaseofemergencyYoucanevenentertowinacool environmentalprize–seeyouthere!

DidYouKnow?

SpiritofCoquitlamGrantDeadlineisMarch31

Aremindertolocalnot-for-profitorganizationsthatthe applicationdeadlinefortheSpiritofCoquitlamGrantiscoming up ApplicationsaredueMarch31by11:59pm Thegrant supportsCoquitlam’slocalnot-for-profitorganizationsindifferent waysandeligiblegroupscanapplyforfunding

Learnmoreaboutthegrant,eligibilityguidelinesandapplyonline atcoquitlam.ca/spiritgrant

SpringBreakActivities

Areyoulookingforsomethingfuntodowithyourfamily duringSpringBreak?Wehaveavarietyofactivities available,includingswimming,skating,movietimes,try-it programsandmore!

PoirierCommunityCentre(630PoirierSt)hasavarietyof ‘Try-It’programsforages2–11years

• CreativeDance(courseID#s118716)

• YoungScientists(courseID#s118741and118745)

• AdventuresinArt(courseID#s118748and118750)

GlenPinePavilion(1200GlenPineCrt.)andDogwood Pavilion(1655WinslowAve)areofferingSpringBreak family-friendlymovietimes:

• March16–DetectivePikachu(courseID#116259)

• March16–WonderPark(courseID#116396)

• March17–TheSecretofRoanInish(courseID#115418)

• March20–TheCalloftheWild(courseID#115342)

Tosignuponline,gotocoquitlamca/registrationandclick RegisterforPrograms Inthekeywordsearchbar,typethe courseID#fordetailsandtosignup,orcall604-927-4386

Public

CoquitlamRecreation

Citystepsintobalancelibrarybooks,gives$

The new budget for the Coquitlam Public Library (CPL) will turn the page after a few shaky years of financial woes, a past trustee said Coun Dennis Marsden, who ended his term on the library board last December, thanked city managers and library staff for retooling the 2023 financial plan, which elected officials unanimously approved at last Monday’s meeting (March 6)

Coun Trish Mandewo was not present for the vote

The work was needed “to really get a firm grasp on the direction of the library,

the financial management of the library and ensuring we’re set up for success going forward,” Marsden said while thanking his fellow councillors for making the “necessary changes” to support the independent organization that runs two library branches Marsden also praised his former library board trustees who didn’t seek re-appointment this term and singled out chairperson Natasha Knox Marsden’s replacement on the board, Coun Matt Djonlic, said crunching the numbers was a “laborious

task,” but provides “a strong foundation in terms of us moving forward”

The pair made the comments three weeks after the CPL board fired CEO Todd Gnissios and, last year, laid off library staff out of seniority and changed shifts and hours for others

For this year’s budget, Michelle Hunt Coquitlam’s general manager of finance, lands and police and her team drilled down to balance CPL’s books, projecting $6 9 million in grants and revenues from, among others:

• City of Coquitlam: $6 4

million

• Province of BC: $272,700

• Fees and printing: $105,000

• Rental income: $12,000

• Book sale: $8,000

As for big expenditures, the 2023 budget lists:

• Salaries: $3 9 million

• Library materials: $546,863

• Magazines and digital collections: $354,267

• Computer systems contracts: $199,000

• Building maintenance: $185,000

Governed by the BC Library Act, the library board has exclusive authority over

its budget for CPL programs, services and capital assets; it is required to submit its final budget each year to council for approval, by March 1

In January, after CPL appeared before council for department head presentations prior to budget approval, council OK’d a base grant of $6 2 million for the library that included an inflationary increase over 2022 of 5 4 per cent Council also greenlighted another:

• $107,872 for salaries and benefits

• $20,000 for operating contingencies

• $85,000 for collections

At the CPL board meeting on Feb 22, trustees included the city’s additional funding in its budget

Last November, CPL came out with its 2023–26 Strategic Plan that focuses on five goals:

• inclusivity

• team wellbeing and culture

• partnerships and engagement

• Truth and Reconciliation

• leading into the future

Last year, CPL saw 526,539 visits at both branches an increase of 41 per cent over 2021

Coquitlam is one of the safest cities in the Lower Mainland to live, the acting RCMP superintendent said this week in revealing the detachment’s year-end report

The 2022 document, which went before the city’s committee-in-council last Monday (March 6), shows the crime rate at 47 offences per 1,000 residents a drop of six points over 2019

That compares with neighbouring Port Coquitlam, which shares a detachment with Coquitlam, where that city’s rate was 54 crimes per 1,000 people last year

The acting officer-in-charge, Insp Darren Carr, said property crimes such as theft from vehicles, shoplifting and mischief to property bumped up slightly (4 3 per cent) last

year in Coquitlam Now, Carr said, Mounties are focusing on prolific offenders, especially for break and enters and catalytic converter thefts As well, police are patrolling shopping centres and business districts in Coquitlam to prevent retail pinchers

Still, while the crime files are largely down, Carr said the number of mental health-related calls has sky-

rocketed mostly due to clients leaving the Red Fish Healing Centre for Mental Health and Addiction

In total, RCMP received 1,652 calls last year for missing people “Limited resources and processes to address mental health/addiction issues in our region has resulted in an increased demand for police to act as first repsonders to mental health-related calls for

service,” he wrote “The detachment is working closely with Red Fish Healing Centre, Fraser Health Authority and the Province of British Columbia to increase supports for mental health in the community”

Meanwhile, Carr thanked council for adding five more Mounties in this year’s budget; the committee offered no comment to his year-end report

For 2023, its priorities include the opening of the Burquitlam community police office, by the new YMCA, and implementing softphone technology for the first phase of Next Generation 911

Last year, policing cost Coquitlam taxpayers $30 9 million, including for integrated policing units and factoring in vacancy savings

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 the below bylaws and Temporary Use Permit during the regular Council Meeting.

Item 1 - Zoning Amendment

Bylaw No. 4301, 2023 1631

Manning Avenue

The Intent of Bylaw No 4301, 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 4301, 2023 from RS1 (Residential Single Dwelling 1) to RS4 (Residential Single Dwelling 4). If approved, the application will facilitate a two-lot subdivision.

Item 2 - Zoning Amendment

Bylaw No. 4302, 2023 1741 & 1747 Salisbury Avenue

The Intent of Bylaw No 4302, 2023 is to amend City of Port Coquitlam Zoning Bylaw No 3630, 2008 to rezone the subject properties as outlined in black on the map marked Schedule “A” to Bylaw 4302, 2023 from RS1 (Residential Single Dwelling) to RTh3 (Residential Townhouse 3).

If approved, the application will permit the development of a 3-storey, 10-unit townhouse development

Item 3 - Temporary Use Permit TU000022 1710 Coast Meridian Road

The Intent of Temporary Use Permit is to establish a temporary storage and distribution facility with accessory office uses as outlined in black on the map marked Schedule “A” to TUP TU000022.

Inspection of Documents

Schedule “A” to Bylaw No. 4301

Deadline

artwork is Apr. 5! CALLING

Schedule “A” to Bylaw No. 4302

Public Notice of Watermain Flushing

The City of Port Coquitlam flushes one third of the City’s watermains each year in order to minimize sediment deposits in the City’s water system that can deteriorate our water quality The City will be flushing watermains in the area shown on the map below beginning Mar 13 and it is expected to take place for 6 - 8 weeks

Schedule “A” to TU000022

To view copies of the supporting documents (staff reports and bylaws) visit portcoquitlam.ca/publichearings.

Submit Your Comments

In order to afford Council the opportunity to review your comments in advance of the Public Hearing and Public Input Opportunity please forward your submission prior to noon on the day of the Public Hearing and Public Input Opportunity by: Email: publichearings@portcoquitlam.ca or Mail: Corporate Office, City of Port Coquitlam 2580 Shaughnessy St., Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 2A8

*Written submissions, including names and addresses (Street and City only) will become part of the public record and will be published on the City’s website and available at the Corporate Office for public inspection.

Speaking at Public Hearing & Public Input Opportunities

Participate in person at the Public Hearing or Public Input Opportunity on/at the date, time, and location noted above

*Video recordings are streamed live and archived on the City’s website at

portcoquitlam.ca/council

For further information please visit: portcoquitlam.ca/publichearings or email: corporateoffice@portcoquitlam.ca.

portcoquitlam.ca/watermain

Librarybecomesmodelforlearningcommons

Book space transforms into multi-purpose area

DIANE STRANDBERG dstrandberg@tricitynews.com

School libraries in Port Coquitlam and across the Tri-Cities have become places for students to collaborate, do projects and learn about technology

With resources now mostly online, libraries aren't a place for books so much as a place to learn how to be a productive citizen in the digital world

And today, the library at Riverside Secondary school in PoCo is the model for what's called a learning commons

Instead of a tightly packed room full of books, gated by a circulation desk, the large room has been transformed into an open, airy space with movable desks and chairs

There's a drop-down screen for presentations and glassed-in rooms for collaborating on projects

What's happened is the traditional school library has been replaced by a learning commons at all elemen-

tary and middle schools in School District 43 (SD43)

High schools, which require more digital tools and construction, are in transition, and two will be getting $50,000 grants to create a learning commons like the one at Riverside Secondary

A learning commons is a place where students use technology, online reference books and databases to

collaborate, do projects, be creative and solve problems, according to teacher–librarian Susan Henderson

RESOURCE HUB

"It's a hub of resources, a hub of shared learning resources,” Henderson said It took several months of collaboration with students, administrators and even Microsoft and Hootsuite

to come up with a plan to transform the library into a space where students can collaborate, work alone on projects or listen to presentations

Students are learning how to use "technology for good" at Riverside, and some are peer leaders helping students with technology in the Wave corner

The idea is to make tech-

nology accessible to all

Grade 9 students attend a boot camp at the beginning of the year to learn the ropes

Teachers, meanwhile, provide them with support and technology so they can carry out their projects Podcasts, for example are a hugely popular way for students to express their learning and students record them in a small room that

also has a green backdrop for videos

There's also a maker-space room where students wander in looking for equipment, such as microphones

They can also laser cut designs, make stamped buttons and build models

Still, traditional books are important, said Henderson

While the Encyclopedia Britannica was dumped long ago in favour of resources such as Gale Engage or CBC's Curio, non-fiction books are still important at the elementary grades, where students aren’t online, and older students often ask librarians for books they want ordered

“Students tell us the books they want to read,” Henderson said Meanwhile, the library continues to be a humming hive of activity throughout the day

While Riverside’s learning commons doesn’t have bike desks and meeting pods, like Hootsuite or Microsoft, it does provide a workable accessible, inclusive, collaborative space

The result is a learning commons that is stretching the parameters of traditional learning to equip students for the digital world

Susan Henderson, librarian at Riverside Secondary School in Port Coquitlam, shows how recent renovations have transformed the space into an active learning centre with moveable tables and cabinets that allow it to be reconfigured for a variety of uses. MARIO BARTEL/TRI-CITY NEWS

Getonboardforanafternoonofboardgames

Event is a fundraiser for the Port Moody Station Museum

MARIO BARTEL mbartel@tricitynews.com

Evan Chan and his wife, Alexandra, met at a board game night hosted by a mutual friend

At their wedding, the eating order for dinner was determined by a game of giant Jenga, and Evan’s best man gifted him a board game as a wedding present

So, when the Port Moody couple decided it was time to begin reconnecting with the community after two years of caution and isolation because of the COVID19 pandemic, they decided to roll the dice and play their cards with their mutual love

The Chans have organized a special board games and tea event to be held March 25, in two 90-minute sessions from 12 to 3:30 p m , on the Venosta rail car at Port Moody Station Museum

For a $10 donation that goes to support the museum, guests can participat in one of two 90-minute

sessions of board game fun while sipping special teas from Coquitlam’s Chaotic Good Tea Co , which names its blends after elements of gameplay, like Attack Damage chocolate Roibos,

and One Earl Grey to Rule Them All

Evan Chan said the historic rail car is an appropriate setting for a pastime that harkens to a simpler time, before video games and on-

line contests you can play on your smartphone

To enhance the throwback feel, participants will be asked to keep their cellphones pocketed and only cash will be accepted for the

registration fee

Chan said board games are a way to bring people together in a way that bridges generations and even cultural differences

“Everywhere you go, kids

like to play and adults still like to laugh and have fun”

Chan said the fateful element of chance that inevitably plays a role in even the most strategic board game is a great equalizer

It also tempers competitive zeal in favour of fun and social interaction

“If anything happens, it’s just a game,” added Alexandra

The Chans, who have a special trunk to schlep around their collection of board games, favour titles like Small World, Labyrinth and Mille Bornes, a car racing card game that Alexandra said she played endlessly with her family while growing up in London

She said she still holds those memories dearly,

That’s the true magic of board games, she added While playing a video or computer game for hours can be numbing, playing board games with a gathering of friends, family or even strangers offers endless possibilities for human connection

“You can laugh about a game for years to come,” Alexandra said

To learn more about the board games and tea event, go to its Facebook page

Evan Chan and his wife, Alexandra, have organized a board games and tea event aboard the old Venosta rail car at Port Moody's Station Museum. MARIO BARTEL/TRI-CITY

Taxincreasesaggravateaffordabilitycrisis

Governments at all levels have been grappling with the “affordability” issue for several years now, but there is mounting evidence that the problem is getting worse and not better

For example, numerous city and municipal councils are raising property taxes by amounts not seen in years

In Metro Vancouver, at least 11 councils have approved increases of more than five per cent and four are in double digits Surrey is tentatively looking at an increase of 12.5 per cent, while Vancouver is raising taxes

by 10.7 per cent

There is a chance some of these increases may be pared down if a municipality opts to use the one-time windfall coming its way courtesy of the provincial government’s new $1 billion Growing Communities Fund.

The money is significant Surrey is getting almost $90 million, while Vancouver is getting $49.1 million. Pretty well all towns are getting at least a half million dollars

About 160 municipalities and 27 regional districts are receiving

an average one-time grant of several million dollars

But the key term here is “onetime”

If a municipality rolls this funding into its operating budget to keep tax increases down, it will have to find that money in the next budget year if it wants to keep funding those services

In other words, a municipality may just be kicking the proverbial can down the road for a year before having to bring in a bigger tax hike

The B C government wants the municipalities to instead

invest the one-time grant in infrastructure projects: things like water and sewer lines as well as new housing

However, municipalities are not the only level of government passing on larger than usual tax hikes these days

I’m referring to the carbon tax, with a new tax regime mandated by the federal government

Page 80 of the provincial budget lays out a “new carbon pricing model” that shows annual increases of $15 per tonne, taking it from the current rate of $50 per tonne to $170 per tonne by 2030.

This means more than a tripling of the tax in less than 10 years

So far, the carbon tax, first introduced in B.C in 2006, has not resulted in B.C achieving anywhere near the targets for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions

As the cost of living and the cost of fighting climate change keeps delivering big numbers, the affordability riddle will continue to be more than challenging to solve

Keith Baldrey is the chief political reporter for Global BC

Graham REGIONAL PUBLISHER publisher@tricitynews.com

Vicki Magnison REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR vimagnison@glaciermedia.ca

Millie

McKinnon CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER mmckinnon@tricitynews.com

Find even MORE letters online: tricitynews.com/opinion/letters

PioneerMemorialParkisaplaceforfamilies

The Editor: Shame on the four Port Moody city councillors who voted in favor of Pioneer Memorial Park being used as the site for the Brewhalla Festival 2023 (Beer fesitval can use Pioneer Park on a trail basis: Tri-City News, March 9)

Pioneer Memorial Park is a special place for families living in apartments to use as a quiet and peaceful spot especially in the summer when cooling stations are offered on its shady grounds and to picnic

Children use it in the summer for summer camp activities Special library activities designed for children are conducted there

In the centre of this unique little park is the lovely Labyrinth Healing Garden

It was constructed by the nearby Crossroads Hospice in partnership with the City of Port Moody

Labyrinths are used as a form of walking meditation

The Labyrinth Healing Garden in Pioneer Memorial Park was created to help the bereaved find healing and hope in the midst of loss

Walking the labyrinth encourages participants to move forward physically while they inwardly reflect on their journey through devastating loss

At the centre of the labyrinth is a Tree of Hearts

bearing the names of those who are being mourned

Close by is another healing device, The Phone of the Wind It is used by those who still long to have conversations with lost loved ones

Pioneer Memorial Park is true to its name; it is a place of deep, heartfelt remembering in a unique outdoor setting

Pioneer Memorial Park was deemed not suitable last year when protesters were listened to and an alternative site for the Brewhalla Festival 2022 was found

This is not an appropriate site for a beer festival that is likely to attract over 1,000 attendees It is important to note that this is not a family

event, children are unable to attend

Our small neighborhood park is being hijacked for purposes that run counter to its purpose

I urge the Port Moody council to reconsider its decision, rescind the present motion and find an alternative place for this event

By doing this you will be showing us that you do indeed hear and respect the voices of those who use

Pioneer Memorial Park

Pioneer Memorial Park is a place for quiet refuge, families, children and for remembering the lives of loved ones

Carla McGhie

Moody

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We’ve paired refreshing beers with scintillating stories for a partnership sure to satisfy.

Pick up your Tasting Passport at either of our Library branches and earn a stamp for each title you borrow Every stamp you collect gets you 50% off its paired beer* at Mariner Brewing’s tap room.

Join us in-person for the final two mystery pairs!

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Port

Port Moody council recently endorsed a staff recommendation that a beer and music festival be allowed to use Pioneer Memorial Park on a trial basis. TCN FILE PHOTO

Maillardville’s

music and

culture festival

celebrates Francophone, Métis, and diverse communities

Family-friendly Festival du Bois showcases the diverse music of French Canada, dance, food, and more at Mackin Park in Coquitlam

The largest festival of its kind in B.C., Festival du Bois shines a spotlight on the Francophone culture and community in Maillardville, which was founded more than 100 years ago and is among the largest French-Canadian communities in B.C. The 34th annual festival, taking place from March 24 to 26 at Mackin Park in Maillardville / Coquitlam this year, provides the perfect opportunity for folks to experience a range of exciting cultures, each as vibrant and distinct as the colourful sash worn by the Métis in the Metis Village Experience (a featured part of the festival).

“The festival represents and reflects a dynamic and enduring part of the community in Maillardville,”says Gwen Kallio, marketing and publicity manager

“People often talk about Festival du Bois being friendly, welcoming and accessible, and each year it broadens its reach and appeal, not only to include the community but further afield Maillardville is at the core of this event, but it very much includes a diversity of artists - and invites people from all backgrounds, cultures and languages to attend”

Expect a full weekend of fun, laughter, and joie de vivre, with a dynamic line-up of musical talent, performances, dance, workshops, roving characters, artisan and exhibit booths, FrenchCanadian food and other delicious culinary options Kids and families will enjoy the Children’s Tent with Madame Diva, Will and Seeka, Robin Layne’s world rhythms, Seeka Sings, and storyteller Véronique’s Conte d’Afrique avec Mulungie

MÉTIS CULTURE

Explore the Métis Village Experience, an immersive exposure to the Métis spirit, where you’ll learn and appreciate the rich Métis

history, art, perspectives and language

“The festival is partnering with the North Fraser Métis Association to offer everyone a glimpse into the Métis experience, so people will get to know more about the richness and depth of Métis culture,”explains Kallio “We’ll hear from elders, and experience dynamic music and dance, and so much more”

LIVELY ENTERTAINMENT, DANCE, FOOD

The event will feature top talent and a wide range of music, often with a strong Francophone connection. Photo by John Endo Greenaway via Festival du Bois

When you step on-site at the festival grounds in Mackin Park, prepare to experience a broad diversity of Francophone and world cultures and artistry, not just from B.C., but from Manitoba, Québec and Washington State as well

The event kicks off with what has become a festival tradition

- the contra dance It’s an“everyone-is-welcome”, participatory social dance with caller Sherry Nevins and The Sybaritic String Band It’s easy for beginners to join in - and a whole lot of fun too

Music permeates the festival site You’ll be stepping and swinging in the Grand Chapiteau (Big Tent) to brilliant performances of tradition-based Québécois music by Les Grands Hurleurs, (the“great howlers”), and from power trio, Genticorum, plus music and dance from B.C.’s own Métis Jiggers

Experience the galvanizing rhythms of Senegalese soul-rocker Élage Diouf; Forró do Cana’s hip-swivelling, Brazilian dance music; La Famille Léger’s French-Canadian and Acadian tunes; the dynamic sounds and rhythms of Podorythmie; Manitoba-based Jocelyne Baribeau’s stunning voice and song; and Maillardville’s Francophone choir, Les Échos du Pacifique, celebrating their 50th anniversary this year

“The festival is renowned for both the quality of talented artistry it presents, along with the wide range of great music on offer,”says Kallio “Tickets are affordable, as well - so the whole family can attend for a day - or even for the full weekend”

Indulge in some food truck fare with such French favourites as scrumptious poutine by Melt Town, crêpes and raclette plus tourtière and cuisine traditionelle in the Big Tent, along with a festival favourite - maple taffy on snow at the Sugar Shack

“Three cheers to Joanne Dumas, our festival’s artistic director and creative force of nature, for bringing the festival’s vision to life every year,”says Kallio “It’s just a very welcoming, openarmed festival, and we want people to come out and share in the experience”

For tickets and more information, visit festivaldubois.ca

Coquitlamstudentgetsatasteforbusiness

Venture started by making biscuits for family and friends

MARIO BARTEL mbartel@tricitynews.com

An unexpected Christmas gift is allowing a Centennial Secondary School student to put into practice some of the lessons she’s learning about entrepreneurship and finances in her Grade 9 business class

It’s also earning her a few bucks along the way

Gia Mattiazzo, 14, is one of the Pizzelle Pals whose thin Italian cookies are now available at Fratelli Bakery’s two locations, in Vancouver and New Westminster, after quietly launching with sales to friends and families and appearances at a couple of local markets

While the other pal

Mattiazzo’s cousin dropped out of the business just as they scaled up production and marketing to include a logo, a website and elegant packaging, she’s carried on her kitchen countertop venture with aspirations to eventually operate commercially

Mattiazzo’s journey to Pizzelle profits started when

she was gifted a Pizzelle press for Christmas It’s a kind of waffle iron that compresses and heats a blob of sweet dough into a light, round, flat and small biscuit that’s a popular treat in Abruzzo, Italy, where her family is from

Using a recipe passed down from her Nonna, Mattiazzo and her cousin started making packs of Pizzelle for friends and

family They were so well received that they decided it might make a fun little business

The young entrepreneurs packed little stacks on Pizzelle into cellophane bags tied with colourful ribbons to fancy up their presentation They started an Instagram account and posted photos of their efforts to help spread the word

To distinguish their prod-

uct from mass-produced Pizzelle, they experimented with flavourings like strawberry, caramel, chocolate and root beer from Gourmet Warehouse

Mattiazzo’s family were enlisted as taste tasters

By the time her cousin moved on, Mattiazzo was fully invested

And she bought more presses

On weekends, when she

wasn’t busy with dance classes or homework, she set up on the long kitchen island in her family’s home and baked about 30 Pizzelle every hour for four or five hours a day

Then she’d spend some time packaging and posting her latest offerings on social media

“Whenever I’m free, and not at dance or doing schoolwork, that’s what I’m doing,” Mattiazzo said

To get her Pizzelle to new markets beyond family and friends, Mattiazzo made arrangements for a table at various markets like Italian Day in Vancouver

One day, Mattiazzo received a message on her Pizzelle Pals Facebook page from Fratelli’s owner Marco Cornale He liked her story and her initiative Would she be interested in selling some of her cookies at his shops?

Mattiazzo said she was nervous going to her first business meeting with Cornale to discuss the arrangement, but she drew courage from the face-toface interactions she had with people visiting her market tables

“I like to be able to talk to my customers,” Mattiazzo said “I can relate everything to my business”

Scaling up production to supply the bakeries has come with valuable lessons about cost control and worklife balance, Mattiazzo said She tries to keep the price of her Pizzelle low enough that kids can buy five of them as a treat, but she also packages multiple flavours in boxes and gift bags to appeal to adults as an indulgence or special occasion gift

Having her cookies in bakeries renowned for their own Italian confections means quality control is of utmost importance

She offers up three new flavours every month after considerable research to find the right balance of taste and sweetness Broken cookies are distributed to her friends at dance class

For now, Mattiazzo said, the venture is more about fun and learning than reaping profits But she can foresee when that tilts the other way, so most of her earnings are poured back into the business to further streamline production or boost her marketing

After all, Mattiazzo said, channelling an adage as old as business itself, “It costs money to make money”

• To find out how you can order Pizzelle Pals, go to pizzellepals com

Gia Mattiazzo grills her Pizzelles on a collection of presses she sets up on a kitchen island in her family’s Coquitlam home. MARIO BARTEL/TRI-CITY NEWS

Tandemgaragescreatingparkingproblems?

PoCo council considers project with tandem stalls

DIANE STRANDBERG dstrandberg@tricitynews.com

Port Coqutlam allows 40 per cent of parking stalls in a townhouse development to

be tandem spaces

But is that allowance in the city’s parking and development management bylaw creating problems for local residents?

Tandem parking, where one vehicle is parked behind another, is commonly used in new townhouse developments in Port Coquitlam

However, these tandem

spots can be a hassle for people who have to share the space and work around who leaves first to avoid getting blocked

Some give up, and park on the street or on a concrete pad outside their home if there is one

Langley council recently dealt with the issue as they sought limits to the number

of tandem spots, while an app has even been created so people can inform each other when they need to get out

In Port Coquitlam, the issue of tandem parking has come up over the years and some councillors believe they aren’t used properly, resulting in more people using scarce street parking

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“The tandem parking has proven that it doesn’t really work; we have to call it like it is,” said Coun Dean Washington

“It’s at best a one-car garage”

The issue came up at a recent Port Coquitlam council in committee meeting dealing with a rezoning application for a 10-unit townhouse complex at 1741 and 1747 Salisbury Ave

Council was told that tandem parking garages allow for thinner townhomes, allowing developers to put more on a lot Consequently, most townhome complexes are built with 40 per cent of parking stalls tandem spaces

For the Salisbury Avenue project by Admiral Admiral Operations Ltd , as many as eight of 14 parking spots would be tandem spaces

Coun Steve Darling also raised concerns about the tandem spaces, noting that the development is supposed to be “family friendly,” which means some buyers might have three cars, especially if they have teenagers learning to drive

“I’m not in favour of this one because of that; as we’ve seen in the past, tandem parking always leads to more cars on the road I’m just not thinking that particular area is an area that can handle more of that,” Darling said

But for three councillors who supported the project onto the next stage of the re-zoning process, tandem spaces are not a deal breaker

Coun Glenn Pollock said the townhouse complex is a “good development” and see FUTURE, page 19

parcliving.ca/mulberry

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follows the city’s Official Community Plan

He admitted his own garage is filled with stuff while a friend he knows built a music room in half of a tandem garage

“We’ve been going back and forth on tandem parking since I’ve been on council,” Pollock said, noting that homes are needed in the city

I don’t think that banning tandem parking is a solution Paige Petriw

PoCo councillor

He also didn’t think it was a good idea to change the rules mid-stream But agreed a discussion on tandem parking in future may be warranted

Coun Darrell Penner and Coun Paige Petriw also said they weren’t too concerned about tandem parking

Penner noted that people often fill their garages, and some turn them into “man caves”

Petriw said she was in favour of the project, noting that people have different needs for their parking spaces

“I don’t think that banning tandem parking is a solution”

The developer is also hoping to squeeze an additional unit onto the 23,000

sq ft development near Wellington Street, and if approved, would pay $58,500, which is the equivalent of the increase in land value Washington, who voted against the rezoning, said the project is “not straightforward” because of the extra unit

Darling agreed, suggesting that the extra unit isn’t “worth it”

THE PROJECT

• Three-storey townhouse complex with 10 units ranging in size from 1,660 to 1,927 sq ft

• The development is designed in two buildings, one fronting Salisbury Street and the other fronting on the back lane

AMENITIES

• Each building has direct pedestrian access to the street or lane, landscaped front yards, defined entries, and a private rooftop deck

• Vehicle access to the development would be from the rear lane with an internal driveway

• Two parking spaces in an attached garage are provided for each individual unit (four units have a tandem arrangement) and two visitors parking stalls are proposed towards the front of the property

• Garbage, recycling and organic waste storage would be accommodated within each individual unit’s garage with a temporary staging area at the rear of the property for pick-up off the back lane

TREES

• Eight of 16 trees will be removed, none considered significant

• Those remaining will be at the back of the site; 15 trees will be planted

GardeningWorkshops

JointheParkSparkteamforexcitinggardenworkshops attheInspirationGardeninTownCentrePark

• Composting

• LifeintheSoil

• PlantLifecycles

• PollinatorPower

• StartingfromSeed

• WormyWorkshop

• CreateaHangingBasket

• CreateaHerbContainer

• CreateaPollinatorPlanter

• CreateaSpringContainer

Formoreinformationonhowtosignup,visit coquitlam.ca/gardenandclickRegisterfor Programs.Intheonlineregistrationsystem, gotoDropIn(Pre-registered)andclickAllAges Next,opentheDropInParkSparkdropdown toseeavailableactivities,datesandtimes,or emailparkspark@coquitlam.ca.

Activities

CelebrateCoquitlam’streecanopywith sometree-rificTreeSpreeactivities happeningthisspring,rainorshine LookforwardtoTreeTalks,Treesinthe GardenandIntroductiontoPruning Formoreinfoaboutthesefreeactivities, emailparkspark@coquitlam.ca

A rendering of a 10-unit townhouse complex being proposed for Salisbury Avenue in Port Coquitlam. CITY

What’sBloomingatthe InspirationGarden?

CometotheInspirationGardenin TownCentreParkandBEEinspired!

Joinusfrom9a.m.–12p.m.onSaturdays inAprilforatourofthegarden.Enjoy tea,learnaboutgardenvolunteeringand upcomingopportunities,andmore.

Checkoutcoquitlam.ca/gardenoremail parkspark@coquitlam.catolearnabout upcomingspringgardenopportunities.

OF PORT COQUITLAM

FestivalduBoispre-parties,RotaryshredatCnd.Tire

Friday, March 17

EN FRANÇAIS

Join Monique Polloni, an author, broadcaster and producer, as well as the MC for Coquitlam’s upcoming Festival du Bois, for a talk about her book, Je ne suis pas seal dans me tete The event takes place from 6 to 8 p m at Société francophone de Maillardville (938 Brunette Ave , Coquitlam)

MORE: maillardville.com

MUSICAL THEATRE

See the DreamWorks movie Madagascar come to life at the Terry Fox Theatre (1260 Riverwood Gate, Port Coquitlam) tonight at 7 p m and Saturday at 1:30 p m

The junior version of the stage show is presented by Mountain Theatre

MORE: mt-madagascar. eventbrite.com

MUSIC, DANCING

The band Under Fire will cover the hits tonight and Saturday at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 263 (1025 Ridgeway Ave , Coquitlam) from 7 to 11 p m ; membership on Saturday night is waived

MORE: rclegion263 ca/

Saturday, March 18

SPRING SHRED

Pack up your unwanted

confidential and sensitive documents and send them to the shredder at a spring fundraiser organized by the Rotary Club of Coquitlam

Sponsored in part by the Tri-City News and Canadian Tire in Coquitlam, the event takes place in the parking lot of Canadian Tire (corner of Lougheed Highway and King Edward Street) from 10 a m to 2 p m Shredding is by donation

MORE: facebook.com/ rotaryclubofcoquitlam

GLOBAL SPRING

Find out how cultures around the world celebrate the start of spring at a family-friendly session at Mackin House Museum (1116 Brunette Ave , Coquitlam)

The Coquitlam Heritage Society will have two sessions at 11:30 a m and 1:30 p m for visitors to

hear the presentation, make crafts and snack on treats Registration is required

MORE: coquitlamheritage.ca

STUDENT ART

Fifty students of Lili Akbari of the Annar Academy will show their acrylic paintings, and clay and ceramic artwork at the Evergreen Cultural Centre (1205 Pinetree Way,

Coquitlam) starting 5:30 p m Entry is free

MORE: evergreenculturalcentre ca

PUCK DROP

The Coquitlam Express battles the Victoria Grizzlies tonight on home ice at the Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex (633 Poirier St , Coquitlam); the game starts at 7 p.m. And on Sunday, the hockey team faces the Nanaimo Clippers for a 3 p.m. match at the Palace during its regular season. MORE: coquitlamexpress.ca

ASSEZ FRENCH

Hear musician Alexis Normand at Place des Arts (1120 Brunette Ave., Coquitlam) as part of a pre-festival event for the

upcoming Festival du Bois in Maillardville Normand’s show, Assez French, from 7:30 to 9 p m , is a presentation by the Société francophone de Maillardville and SFU’s Bureau des affaires francophones et francophiles She’ll also lead a conversation with the audience about language, identity and place

MORE: festivaldubois.ca/ pre-festival-events-2023

CHA CHA CHA

Grab a friend and try out merengue, cumbia, bachata and other Latin steps at the Salsa night at Site B Brewing and Community (3012 Murray St , Port Moody)

The beginner’s class starts at 8 p m , with the dance floor open until midnight

Admission is $15

MORE: hotsalsadancezone.com

Sunday, March 19 FARMERS

MARKET

Brûlée To Go, Heights Coffee and Nakedough 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 ) Be sure to bring your grocery bags

MORE: makebakegrow com

Alexis Normand will perform at Place des Arts on March 18 for a pre-festival show for Festival du Bois.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Ron Warneboldt, Denis Boyd, Barb Patterson and Jim Lane of Coquitlam Rotary are gathering sensitive documents for the club's annual spring drive-thru shredding event that will be held March 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. MARIO BARTEL/TRI-CITY NEWS

Feenieteeingupmenu

DIANE STRANDBERG dstrandberg@tricitynews.com

A celebrity chef is bringing his experience and food knowledge to the venerable Vancouver Golf Club in Coquitlam

Rob Feenie officially joins the team as culinary director and chef-in-residence, with a new menu expected to launch in late-April

The appointment follows a massive renovation to the kitchen of the historic Vancouver Golf Club

Brad Pinnell, general manager, announced Feenie’s participation in the food and beverage program on Monday (March 13 )

“We are thrilled to have him join the team and look forward to having him create delicious dining experiences for our members”

Feenie recently completed a winter residency at the Relais & Châteaux property Wedgewood Hotel &

Spa’s Bacchus restaurant

Prior to that, he held a long tenure at the Cactus Club, where he helped pioneer the casual fine dining category

As an avid golfer, Feenie said he was intrigued with the idea of developing a food program for the club

“It is not everyday you get to create a whole new identity from the ground-up, which is exactly what we

are doing I look forward to working with the whole team and taste testing a variety of dishes”

Feenie is renowned for this innovative West Coaststyle of cooking, which he developed at his award-winning fine dining restaurant Lumière, merging classically trained French techniques with fresh, local ingredients and Pacific Rim-region flavours

Celebrity chef Rob Feenie is the new culinary director and chef-in-residence at the Vancouver Golf Club in Coquitlam. LINDSAY ELLIOT PHOTO

NewMoodyElementaryexpectedinfall2024

Construction could begin later this spring

DIANE STRANDBERG dstrandberg@tricitynews.com

A new school with a child care centre will soon rise in Port Moody’s downtown

and it will be 30 per cent bigger than the current school in the neighbourhood to accommodate a growing population

School District 43 officials (SD43) have confirmed that construction for the $37 2-million replacement school for Moody Elementary could begin later this spring

A tendering process is expected to take place soon for the building at 110 Buller St , in front of Moody Middle School, according to information provided by Ken Hoff, SD43’s assistant director of communication and community relations The school is scheduled to open in fall 2024

When it does open, it

will have a capacity for 385 students, or 115 more than the older school’s current capacity, as well as 60 child care spaces

However, it’s too early to say if many of the students in the new kindergarten to Grade 5 school will come from nearby Coronation Park

That’s because changes in

the neighbourhood which straddles both Coquitlam and Port Moody are still in the pipeline, with details, such as demographics, size type and number of units still unknown, according to Hoff

FUTURE NEEDS

Still, there is space on the site for an addition if needed, Hoff said in a statement, and the school district will be working with Coquitlam and Port Moody on future student needs depending on growth in the area

“New students eventually coming from the Coronation Park area may be placed in a number of nearby schools,” said Hoff in an email to the Tri-City News

“As this, and the Port Moody area, is expected to continue to densify, the district has a number of potential options to deal with growth over the medium to

long term”

In Coquitlam, council approved Polygon’s rezoning application for the Coronation Heights neighbourhood at 135 Balmoral Dr and 2508–2548 Palmer Ave , with nine high-rises up to 51 storeys on 11 3 acres

They’ll include 2,000 condos, 800 rental units and 201 below-market suites

Meanwhile, Wesgroup’s rezoning application for the Coronation Park neighbourhood is still in the pipeline in Port Moody where the developer is planning a community of 2,665 units in six towers up to 31 storeys

The project will also include a rental building, office and commercial spaces, two daycares, a park and city amenity space to be constructed on a 14 8-acre site at the corner of Barnet Highway and Ioco Road

In June 2021, the B C

see CHILD CARE, page 25

‘Smelly’lunchstoryinspiresnewbookforsociety

Meet Mina, a young student who just wants to enjoy her lunch.

But her classmates begin to ridicule her for its unfamiliar aroma as its a dish from her family’s culture and household

This story, simply titled Mina’s Lunch, was spearheaded by a Port Moodybased organization that hopes to teach kids about racism, and how to accept all ethnic backgrounds

The Asian Impact Society (AIS) will formally launch its new children’s book later this month in celebration of the teamwork and community collaboration

“Mina’s Lunch is an uplifting re-telling of a pretty common negative childhood experience for many of us,” said AIS Director Celia

Chiang in a release sent to the Tri-City News

“One day, Mina is eating in her classroom when her classmates deride her

‘smelly’ lunch The way this situation is handled presents a great opportunity for discussions around multiculturalism and diversity in our

The Port Moody-based Asian Impact Society has published its anti-racism book for kids nearly a year after receiving a $5,000 grant to kickstart its campaign. ASIAN

schools”

IMPACT SOCIETY

The book is being published nearly a year after the non-profit received a $5,000 BC Multicultural grant for its development

The idea stemmed from a rise in racism and hate reports since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic as the virus was first detected in China

After receiving the funds, AIS then made a public call last September for testimonies of either racist incidents, hate attacks or acts of discrimination against local residents in seeking inspira-

tion for the book.

Stephanie Shieh’s submission of being mocked while eating her lunch was the “unanimous favourite,” the AIS explained.

As a result of the project, soft-cover printed copies of Mina’s Lunch are set to be made available for its target audience at all 46 School District 43 (SD43) elementary schools this month

“Young readers can empathize with Mina’s emotions as she learns about cultural differences, the importance of family and ultimately, accepting herself exactly as she is,” the AIS statement added

“The book also features a comprehensive discussion guide for parents and educators”

Port Coquitlam graphic

FOCUS ON Registration

Ridge Meadows College (RMC), located in Maple Ridge near the Golden Ears Bridge, is a postsecondary institution administrated by School District 42. The college has a long-standing reputation for producing quality grads in specialized fields.

designer and author–illustrator Kirstin Hepburn finetuned the book and worked with AIS to bring Shieh’s story to life.

Hepburn also wrote and illustrated The Lost Dumpling, a book about diversity and inclusion produced by the Asian Arts and Culture Society as part of its BC Dumpling Festival campaign

The Mina’s Lunch release event is scheduled for take place March 26, 10:30 a m to 12 p m at the Coquitlam Public Library’s City Centre branch

It’ll be read to those that register in advance of the free launch

For more information, you can visit the Asian Impact Society’s website Kyle Balzer, TCN

Due to its position within the school district, RMC offers tuition rates far below the private career colleges and a trustworthy learning environment where students can be confident that the focus is on a quality education

The Administrative Office Specialist certificate, and the upcoming Bookkeeping Professional program, provide modern business skills with a foundation of basic computer, organizational and communication skills. Courses may be taken fulltime or over multiple terms so students can study at their own pace. Attend

Applyforacitygrantfor neighbourhoodgatherings

Social gatherings, improvement projects or skill workshops

Coquitlam is looking to support these types of neighbourhood events that aim to gather and connect local residents through an annual partnered funding program with the city and the Coquitlam Foundation among others

Until April 18, interested applicants “of all ages” for Coquitlam’s Neighbourhood

Small Grants (NSG) initiative could receive up to $500 to host a gathering

The cash is aimed to tackle social isolation and build stronger communities, according to NSG coordinators Cherie Layne and Ami Goshalia “Neighbourhood

Small Grants remove financial barriers for projects that

connect people, whether in a neighbourhood, building or group with a common interest,” they said in a news release, noting successful residents never have to pay back the grant money

“The aim is to make Coquitlam’s neighbourhoods places where people know and help each other, celebrate together and work as a team to make their community a better place to live”

Previous grants have been used to host:

• workshops

• social events

• gardening and history projects

• book and game exchanges

• seniors outreach

The NSG program began in 1999 and is delivered alongside the

Vancouver Foundation and the Association of Neighbourhood Houses of BC Funding to cover project expenses such as products, transportation and honorariums is for individuals or informal groups only as businesses and registered organizations are not eligible for this particular grant

The events or activities organized must be free for the neighbourhood or offered with a small optional donation A grant committee will review applications after the April 18 deadline, the city said, and successful applicants will be informed in May

For more information and to apply for a $500 grant, you can visit the Coquitlam NSG website

Kyle Balzer, TCN

Find Community Events online:

Internationalfieldtripsreadytoresume

DIANE STRANDBERG dstrandberg@tricitynews.com

Coquitlam district students will be able to fly to international destinations starting the next school year

A moratorium on travel has already been lifted for out-of-province trips, but travel out of the country has

remained on hold while officials monitored the COVID19 pandemic and other concerns related to travel

Now the district’s leadership team is ready to lift the ban on foreign travel, starting in the 2023/’24 school year

“At this time, we feel it is appropriate to allow applications for potential interna-

tional travel opportunities to come forward now,” states a report to the School District 43 (SD43) board of education

According to the district, travel enhances students’ education and is worth pursuing

“The opportunity for student travel related to language, culture and history

is something SD43 holds in high regard, and re-instating the potential to travel abroad will provide students with valuable life experiences”

However, each trip will require detailed preparations in advance, particularly the arrangement of cancellation insurance

In March 2020, the district had to cancel several

trips due to COVID-19; fortunately, all students and their families were reimbursed for the total amount of insurance covered by the contract

Among the trips cancelled just before spring break that year were excursions to Europe, Asia and Africa

At the time, the district was worried about the safety of students and took the step of cancelling all trips

“As in previous years, there are a number of school trips planned over spring break In light of the COVID-19 outbreak and corresponding travel advisories issued by many countries, including Canada, the district has had to take the necessary precaution of cancelling some of these trips , ” said superintendent Patricia

Gartland at the time

Still, while field trips are supported, the school district notes it will not fund any portion and international education trips are “not a right of any student, class or group”

Recently, school board officials laid out their plans for how applications for international field trips will be handled

According to the district, the process for approval will include the following steps:

• Application for Approval (2 stages)

• Conditions of Participation

• Volunteers and Supervision

• Financial Arrangements

• Pre-Trip Review

• Documentation

• Health and Safety

Staff and students in School District 43 will soon be able to resume planning for international field trips beginning next school year OXANA V/UNSPLASH

Bikementorsshare Tri-Cities’sights

MARIO BARTEL

mbartel@tricitynews.com

When Jerrick Barroso was six years old and newly arrived in Canada with his family from the Philippines, he explored his new environs on his bike

Now, he’s helping other newcomers do the same as a bike mentor

An initiative of HUB Cycling, the newcomer bike mentorship program pairs local cyclists with recent immigrants and refugees for companionship and an orientation to Metro Vancouver’s active transportation network

It’s also a great way to learn about the nooks and crannies of a community at a more absorbent pace, Barroso said

“You’re not moving as fast You get to different places that a car can’t get to,” he said “You have more time to take things in”

Last summer, Barroso was paired with Razieh, a young woman newly arrived in Coquitlam from Iran Once a week from June to September, they went on evening rides around town, exploring designated bike routes and trails, popping into parks and cafés

On weekends, they’d travel further afield

Barroso showed Razieh how to link different modes of transportation, taking their bikes onto SkyTrain to travel into Vancouver and then ride out to Spanish Banks using designated trails

Once, they rode over the

Port Mann Bridge to Surrey, an experience that enthralled his protégé

“Just being able to ride over a structure like that was pretty unique,” Barroso said “The views are pretty incredible”

With Barroso’s guidance, Razieh also learned how she could get from her home in Coquitlam to her job in Burnaby by bike, using the flattest route possible

He said the experience was enlightening for him as well

Barroso said it was exciting to see Razieh’s self-confidence on her bike grow as they pushed the limits of their excursions

“I know she had a lot of doubt at the beginning about her capabilities,” he said “After our first ride she wanted to do more and go for longer She surprised me many times”

Barroso also got to see his community through fresh eyes all over again, with all the wonderment and joy of new discoveries that can bring

Riding with a newbie cyclist challenged him to reevaluate his own riding choices as he sought out safe routes that would be comfortable for his companion

“I learned cycling with Razieh, you see how great we have it here as far as facilities and roads for cyclists,” Barroso said “Riding with her made me realize how lucky and fortunate we are”

• HUB Cycling is looking for new bike mentors in the Tri-Cities area To learn more and sign up, go to bikehub ca

Looking

Port Moody’s committees advise City Council on a wide variety of important topics and issues Help shape Port Moody’s future by sharing your unique perspective and working collaboratively with a diverse group of people Applications are currently being accepted for the following civic committees:

Bike mentor Jerrick Barroso, left, with his protégé, Razieh, on a ride around Coquitlam’s Lafarge Lake. SUBMITTED PHOTO

FundingtohelpimproveCoquitlamfacilities

Money is coming from the Rick Hansen Foundation

DIANE STRANDBERG dstrandberg@tricitynews.com

Everyone wants to visit Coquitlam recreation facilities

So why not make them easier to use for people with

disabilities?

That’s the aim of the Rick Hansen Foundation, which is providing up to $82,500 in funding for an accessibility assessment, improvements and training for city staff

Coquitlam is one of eight B C cities, including Port Moody, chosen to to receive complimentary accessibility certification from the Rick Hansen Foundation

“Almost 50 per cent of adults in Canada have a permanent or temporary disability or live with someone who does Many of us struggle every day to access the places where we live, work, learn, and play, facing significant barriers that others take for granted,” said Brad McCannell, the foundation’s vice president for access and inclusion in a news release “Accessibility improve-

City of Coquitlam NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ments to spaces such as community centres, libraries and arts facilities will benefit everyone across our province parents, seniors, people with temporary and permanent disabilities, their caregivers and loved ones Everyone has a right to real, meaningful access”

Port Coquitlam has already achieved a rare gold ranking for making its new Port Coquitlam

Community Centre accessible for people of all ages and abilities

The RHF accessibility certification is a rating and recognition program that measures the meaningful accessibility of a site based on the “holistic user experience” of people with varying disabilities affecting their mobility, vision and hearing

Some of these features include accessible entrance-

ways, vehicle access, emergency systems, accessible washrooms and wayfinding signage

Coquitlam has chosen the following three facilities

Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex, Dogwood Pavilion and the Town Centre Park Community Centre for the RFHAC evaluations and upgrades, after assessing city sites for size, scope and value for residents

The City is continuing to facilitate electronic participation for Public Hearings. Those wishing to listen and/or participate at the Public Hearing can visit www.coquitlam.ca/publichearing or call 604-927-3010 for details and instructions.

If you do not wish to provide input, but would like to view the proceedings, watch online: www.coquitlam.ca/webcasts

Notice is hereby given that the City of Coquitlam will be holding a Public Hearing to receive representations from all persons who deem it in their interest to address Council regarding the following proposed bylaws. This meeting will be held on:

Date: Monday, March 27, 2023

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: City Hall Council Chambers, 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, BC V3B 7N2 Immediately following the adjournment of the Public Hearing, Council will convene a Regular Council Meeting during which it will give consideration to the items on the Public Hearing agenda

1055, 1057, and 1059 James Avenue, and a portion of James Avenue

The intent of Bylaw No. 5299, 2023 is to amend City of Coquitlam Zoning Bylaw No 3000, 1996 to rezone the subject properties as outlined in black on the map marked Schedule ‘A’ to Bylaw No 5299, 2023 from RS-1 One-Family Residential to RS- 3 OneFamily Residential.

If approved, the application would facilitate the subdivision of the subject properties into three lots and the construction of three single family dwellings.

RS-3

SCHEDULE 'A' TO BYLAW 5299, 2023

The intent of Bylaw No. 5292, 2023 is to amend City of Coquitlam Zoning Bylaw No 3000, 1996 to rezone the subject properties as outlined in black on the map marked Schedule ‘A’ to Bylaw No 5292, 2023 from RS-1 One-Family Residential, RT-1 Infill Residential, and RM-1 Two-Storey Low Density Apartment Residential to RM-3 Multi-Storey Medium Density Apartment Residential.

In association with the application, a road cancellation application is also in process to close, cancel and purchase a portion of public road right-of-way on James Avenue.

SCHEDULE 'A' TO BYLAW 5292, 2023

If approved, the application would facilitate the development of one six-storey apartment building and one two-storey townhouse building with a total of 74 dwelling units (4 studios, 9 one-bedrooms, 16 adaptable one-bedrooms, 14 one-bedroom and dens, 21 twobedrooms, 1 two-bedroom and den, and 9 three-bedrooms).

Date: Monday, March 27, 2023

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: City Hall Council Chambers, 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, BC, V3B 7N2

Notice of Public Hearing continued from previous page

Item 3

The City is continuing to facilitate electronic participation for Public Hearings. Those wishing to listen and/or participate at the Public Hearing can visit www.coquitlam.ca/publichearing or call 604-927-3010 for details and instructions.

If you do not wish to provide input, but would like to view the proceedings, watch online: www.coquitlam.ca/webcasts

Addresses: 628, 630, 632, 634, 636, 638 Claremont Street, 635, 637, 639, 641, 643, 645 Gardena Drive, a lane and a portion of Gardena Drive

The intent of Bylaw No. 5238, 2022 is to amend City of Coquitlam Zoning Bylaw No. 3000, 1996 to rezone the subject properties as outlined in black on the map marked Schedule ‘A’ to Bylaw No 5238, 2022 from RS-1 One Family Residential to CD- 36 Comprehensive Development Zone - 36

If approved, the application would facilitate the creation of two residential condo towers – one 42-storey and one 16-storey (49 studios, 177 onebedroom, 82 one-bedroom and den, 157 twobedroom, 7 two-bedroom and den, and 54 threebedroom) for a total of 526 units – as well as two six-storey purpose built rental buildings (26 studios,

106 one-bedroom, 63 two-bedroom, and 23 threebedroom), for a total of 189 market rental units and 29 below-market rental units. This application previously went forward to Public Hearing on September 26, 2022 Staff have requested the application receive a second Public Hearing due to the following:

• A discovered error in Schedule B of Bylaw No 5238, 2022; and

• A request from the applicant to allow for flexibility in the development phasing of the site

How do I find out more information?

For copies of supporting staff reports and the bylaws, please visit www.coquitlam.ca/publichearing

For additional information and any relevant background documentation, contact the Planning and Development Department by email at planninganddevelopment@coquitlam.ca or by phone at 604-927-3430. You may also visit the Planning and Development Department in person at 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, BC, during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from Monday to Friday excluding statutory holidays. Please note: while City Hall is open to the public, and physical distancing measures are in place, the City continues to strongly encourage the use of remote means to obtain more information on these applications.

Prior to the Public Hearing written comments may be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office in one of the following ways:

• Email: clerks@coquitlam.ca;

• Fax: to the City Clerk’s Office at 604-927-3015; or

• In person: Attn: City Clerk’s Office, City Hall at 3000 Guildford Way:

• To the City Clerk’s Office front desk, which is located on the second floor of City Hall; or

• Place in either one of two City Hall drop boxes located at the underground parking entrance or by the main entrance facing Burlington Drive

To afford Council an opportunity to review your submission, please ensure that you forward it to the City Clerk’s Office prior to noon on the day of the hearing.

coquitlam.ca/publichearing

Please note that the drop boxes will be emptied shortly after 12:00 p.m. and not checked again prior to the hearing.

Written submissions provided in response to this consultation, including names and addresses, will become part of the public record which includes the submissions being made available for public inspection at Coquitlam City Hall and on our website at www coquitlam ca/agendas If you require more information regarding this process, please call the City Clerk’s Office at 604-927-3010

Those who wish to provide verbal submissions are encouraged to participate remotely via Zoom. Remote participants can use their computers, smart phones, tablets or telephones to speak to Council. Instructions for how to participate remotely are available at www.coquitlam.ca/publichearing

If you want to provide a verbal submission, please register as far in advance of the meeting as possible Registration for remote participants can be found at www.coquitlam.ca/publichearing If you wish to participate via telephone, please call 604-927-3010 to register Please note, you may also register to attend the meeting remotely without signing up to speak to an item. The City Clerk’s Office will compile a speakers list for each item. Everyone will be permitted to speak at the Public Hearing but those who have registered in advance will be given first opportunity.

Please also be advised that video recordings of Public Hearings are streamed live and archived on the City’s website at www.coquitlam.ca/webcasts

Please note that Council may not receive further submissions from the public or interested parties concerning any of the bylaws described above after the conclusion of the Public Hearing

Katie Karn, City Clerk

City of Coquitlam NOTICE OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION

The City has received an application to amend the Citywide Official Community Plan (OCP) relating to the properties located at 3411, 3415, 3421 and 3435 Galloway Avenue. The application proposes an amendment to the land use designation of the subject properties from School/Park and Street Oriented Village Homes to Conventional Townhomes, Small Village Single Family, Neighbourhood Parks and Natural Open Spaces, and Environmentally Sensitive Area as well as a shift of the north-south Nature Trail located on 3435 Galloway Avenue to an Urban Multi-Use Trail located along the east side of the proposed Soball Street.

The OCP amendment is accompanied by a rezoning application from RS-2 OneFamily Suburban Residential to RS-7 Small Village Single Family Residential, RT-2 Townhouse Residential, and P-5 Special Park; a subdivision to create one townhouse lot, five duplex lots, 29 single family lots, and environmentally sensitive area dedication to the City; and Development Permits for a 92-unit townhouse development, five duplexes, and watercourse protection

If approved, the applications would facilitate the development of a total of 131 dwelling units.

You are invited to provide input to Council with respect to the above-noted application.

The City of Coquitlam will be receiving input up to March 27, 2023. Written correspondence can be provided in one of the following ways:

• Email: clerks@coquitlam ca with “Section 475 – PROJ 22-067” in the subject line;

• Regular mail: City Clerk’s Office, 2nd Floor, 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, BC, V3B 7N2;

• In person: Attn: City Clerk’s Office – please place in one of two City Hall drop boxes (3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam), located at the underground parking entrance or by the main entrance facing Burlington Drive;

• Fax: to the City Clerk’s Office at 604-927-3015

Additional information about this application can be accessed by contacting Carman Yeung, Planning and Development Department, at CYeung@coquitlam.ca.

Written submissions provided in response to this consultation, including names and addresses, will become part of the public record which includes the submissions being made available for public inspection at Coquitlam City Hall (at the Planning and Development counter) and potentially on our website as part of a future agenda package at www.coquitlam.ca/agendas.

Should Council decide to approve this application going to a Public Hearing, notification for the hearing will be completed in accordance with the Local Government Act.

Threeteensarrestedinassault

There were no injuries following a violent altercation between a man and three youths in Port Moody

However, charges are being recommended including assault with a weapon after a trio of teens was arrested as Port Moody police (PMPD) found a hammer and knife in their possession

The incident took place in a park-and-ride lot near the intersection of Moody and Clarke streets around 4:30

p m on March 5

Officers responded to

reports of a group of youths attacking an adult man

One of them was believed to have struck the victim with a hammer while another brandished a knife, according to PMPD spokesperson Const Sam Zacharias

“The victim and suspects are not known to each other and we believe this incident occurred after a verbal altercation between the parties,” he said in a news release

“Incidents like these are rare but very concerning,”

Zacharias said “It is fortunate that no one was seri-

ously injured”

After they fled the scene, Zacharias said the three youths were found at a SkyTrain station, where they were arrested and several weapons were seized

He added paramedics treated the victim for minor injuries

PMPD is appealing for witnesses to the altercaton to come forward

Anyone with more information about the incident is encouraged to call PMPD at 604-461-3456 and quote file number 2023-1176

NOTICE OF INTENTION AND NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY DISPOSITION

TAKE NOTICE THAT pursuant to Section 40 and Section 94 of the Community Charter, the City of Coquitlam Council intends to consider adoption of City of Coquitlam “Highway Dedication Cancellation Bylaw No 5291, 2023”

The intent of the Bylaw is to close and remove the dedication of 426 3 m2 of road allowance adjacent to the lands at 1055, 1057 and 1059 James Avenue and 200 Marmont Street The resulting parcel created by the road cancellation is proposed to be consolidated with the adjacent lands at 1053, 1055, 1057 and 1059 James Avenue and 200 Marmont Street, as one site.

Should you have any concerns or comments you wish to convey to Council, please submit them in writing no later than noon Monday, March 27, 2023 to the City Clerk’s Office in one of the following ways:

• Email: clerks@coquitlam ca;

• Regular mail: 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, BC, V3B 7N2;

• In person: City Clerk’s Office, 2nd Floor, 3000 Guildford Way, Coquitlam, BC, V3B 7N2;

• Fax: to the City Clerk’s Office at 604-927-3015

A copy of Highway Dedication Cancellation Bylaw No 5291, 2023 may be viewed at City Hall (Planning and Development Department) and any inquiries relating to the proposal should be made to the Planning and Development Department (604-927-3434), 8:00 a m to 5:00 p m , Monday to Friday, except statutory holidays

FURTHERMORE, TAKE NOTICE THAT pursuant to Sections 26 and 94 of the Community Charter, the City of Coquitlam hereby gives notice of the intention to sell the above described 426 3 m2 portion of road proposed to be closed and dedication removed.

Purchaser: 1164614 B C Ltd

Nature of Disposition: Fee Simple Selling Price: $629,610

For further information, please contact Greg Hamilton, Manager, Real Estate at 604-927-6958

THIS ADVERTISEMENT IS FOR THE PURPOSES OF PUBLIC DISCLOSURE ONLY, NOT SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER

City of Coquitlam

GenticorumisbackforannualFrenchfête

Yann Falquet saw quite a bit of his Genticorum bandmates last year

Now a Vermont resident, Falquet travelled up to his parents’ home north of Montreal, when they were out of the country, and transformed it into a recording studio

It was the house that Falquet grew up in, and the trio with an engineer used the lakes and trails around the Laurentian Mountains for inspiration to cut 12 songs

Those tunes will be on an

album coming out in April, after their workshop and performances at next weekend’s 34th annual Festival du Bois at Mackin Park in Coquitlam

And crowds can hear their songs débuted at shows at 2:15 p m

“They’re songs that likely no-one has heard before,” Falquet said in an interview from Denver, Col “We have a practice of collecting traditional music We go into the National Archives in Québec and listen to music on CDs and read books from the

past 100 years”

They also pick up songs from older Québécois musicians at parties and gatherings, and work together on the arrangements to fit Genticorum’s musical style

With the COVID-19 pandemic waning, Falquet said he and fellow founding member Pascal Gemme, and Nicholas Williams, are excited to return to the festival circuit

It will be their third or fourth time playing at Festival du Bois

“We would play it every

year if we could, but the reality is, for festival committees, there’s a wealth of bands to choose from,” Falquet said “We say yes to the festivals that we love We feel lucky to be invited, to get outside Québec and be with other French speakers”

Falquet compares Coquitlam’s Festival du Bois with the Festival du Voyageur, which takes place in mid-February in Winnipeg, Man “It’s a moment where people can celebrate their own culture and other artists But in B C , you

also have the most amazing sushi!”

Asked what it’s like to perform before a live audience after the hiatus, Falquet said he’s grateful the audience is back and the band is appreciative for the reception

When the pandemic lockdown hit, “it was comfortable not to go anywhere Now, there’s a lot of travelling, but when we get to where we want to go, we see the people and all the frustrations about being in an airport and travel are gone There’s a good energy”

Produced by the Société francophone de Maillardvilleandsponsored in part by the Tri-City News, the 34th annual Festival du Bois takes place at Mackin Park (1046 Brunette Ave., Coquitlam) on March 24, 25 and 26. Entry to the Friday night contradance is free. General admission on Saturday and Sunday is $32/$22/$10 per day; the single-day family rate is $75 for two adults and two children (ages five to 12) For tickets, visit festivaldubois ca

For more photos follow us on Instagram #tricitynews

Genitcorum is (L-R) Yann Falquet, Pascal Gem and Nicholas Williams The Juno-nominated ensemble is one of the leading groups of traditional Québécois music At the 34th annual Festival du Bois, the trio appears on the Main Stage on March 25 and 26 at 2:15 p.m. at Mackin Park in Coquitlam. AMY LUPER

Wongtalkswritingafterreleasingthirdbook

Pinetree Secondary grad will be in Coquitlam in April

Lindsay Wong, a Pinetree Secondary graduate who grew up in Coquitlam and now calls Burnaby home, teaches creative writing at the University of Winnipeg

A former hockey player with the Tri-City Predators, Wong debuted The WooWoo: How I Survived Ice Hockey, Drug Raids and Demons, and My Crazy Chinese Family, a memoir that made the finals for Canada Reads in 2019

That year, she also came out with a young adult novel called My Sumer of Love and Misfortune

And last month, the UBC and Columbia University graduate released a fictional work titled Tell Me Pleasant Things about Immortality a collection of 13 short stories that delve into the family secrets and inherited

traumas of immigrants

Like Woo-Woo, the book is receiving critical acclaim

The Tri-City News spoke with Wong; here’s an edited transcript of the interview that was recorded earlier this month

How often do you return to Coquitlam? I was there for Christmas and I’ll be back in April for some events My parents live in Coquitlam

How did growing up in Coquitlam influence your writing? I had a very structured childhood There were always a lot of activities: hockey, school, piano lessons I didn’t start writing until UBC At Pinetree, Ms McNeill taught creative writing I loved her class

Why do you write? I think it’s really to make sense of whatever I’m feeling or thinking at that moment For a writer, there’s a lot going on in your brain, so it’s a good way to explore themes For this latest collection of immigrant horror stories, I really wanted to write about diaspora and Chinese immigrants

How do you write? I

can write anywhere I find chunks of time whenever I have a break I wish I was a full-time writer; I’m not I teach, I go to faculty meetings so whenever there’s time, I sit down and craft something There’s a lot of revision, a lot of things get thrown out, but hopefully there’s a story in there

Where do you write? I prefer to write at home in my pyjamas I’m usually in my bed I have my snacks I have my coffee It’s kind of a mess I have a MacBook Somedays, there’s no time for writing I tell my students, “Not everyone can write everyday and that’s really fine It’s what works for you”

Why did you move to fiction for this new book? I’ve always been interested in telling ghost stories and horror stories There’s a thing about memoir that keeps you confined You

Left, Coquitlam author Lindsay Wong and, above, the cover of her novel that went on sale in February PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE

Authorto speakatCPL

have to know facts You have to do a lot of research, whereas fiction, you can take metaphors and made-up characters and go even deeper with ideas that you’re interested in

Is it harder to write fiction? I think so because when you’re writing non-fiction or memoir, for example, you are really manipulating events The story is told for you and your job is to structure it so it’s compelling for your readers But with fiction, there’s no plot You have to completely invent a narrative from scratch You have to really think about your characters and the stories you want to tell

What are you working on now? I have a novel It’s about these bridesmaids who sell their soul to a demon bride by accident It’s a satire but also a comedy I remember being asked to be a bridesmaid I don’t recommend it They should outlaw it There’s no such thing as demon brides but there are bridezillas, so I do draw on certain incidents in real life I’m supposed to hand in the draft in August for publication next year

Playukulele withthepros

Three superstars in the ukulele world will be in Coquitlam for Victoria Day to perform and teach a workshop

Any words of wisdom for emerging writers? Be persistent Listen to that voice in your head that says, “This is the story that I want to tell” Write stories that you should not write because that’s where we’re supposed to go as writers and artists

What are you currently reading? A lot of friends’ manuscripts I’m listening to a lot of audio books like Jen Sookfong Lee’s Superfan; it’s a brilliant exploration of being Chinese I have Blackmail and Bibingka by Mia P Manansala and A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes I listen to audio books a lot because I tend to read a lot of student manuscripts I need that audio release You can let the story unfold As a writer, when you see a sentence, you always dissect it You ask, “Can I do better?” But, for audio, you sit back and enjoy, and live in the story

Author Lindsay Wong will be at the City Centre branch of the Coquitlam Public Library (1169 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam) on Saturday, April 15 from 1:30 to 3 p m Her books will be available for purchase To register for her book reading and discussion, go to coquitlam libnet info/event/8054019

U3, better known as Abe Lagrimas, Jr , Cynthia Lin and Ukulenny, will be at the Evergreen Cultural Centre on Monday, May 22, courtesy of the Coquitlam Ukulele Tiny Instruments Enthusiasts (CUTIE) Circle

The event is CUTIE’s first in-person gathering since the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in March 2020 During the hiatus, U3 went online to offer free ukulele classes, of which CUTIE members took part A club spokesperson told the Tri-City News that it wanted to return the favour by hosting the trio in May; proceeds from the event will cover U3’s expenses Lagrimas and Lin, a popular YouTuber, will be flying in from Hawaii while Ukulenny hails from the San Francisco Bay area

While in Coquitlam, U3’s workshop will focus on the bossa nova style, and is open to ukulele players who are at the “confident beginner to intermediate” level

Participants will learn how to improvise and play bossa novel rhythms like on Lin’s song “Aquamarine”

To register for U3’s workshop and/or concert on May 22, visit cutiecircle com

The show is at 2 p m ; the workshop starts at 3:30 p m at Evergreen (1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam)

Tickets are also available from the box office by calling 604-927-6555 or evergreenculturalcentre ca

SPORTS

PoMowrestlerfindsnewpurposeinMMAcage

She’s awaiting her second bout after winning her debut

MARIO BARTEL

mbartel@tricitynews.com

Ciara McCrae is the middle member of Port Moody’s first family of wrestling

Her dad, Bill, was an accomplished collegiate wrestler and continues to coach the sport at Maple Ridge Secondary School

Her younger brother, Devin, won a gold medal at the high school provincial championships when he was at Heritage Woods Secondary School and went on to compete for Simon Fraser University

That’s also where Ciara wrestled after her own high school success at Port Moody Secondary, earning All-American honours and a bronze medal at the 2019 Women’s Collegiate Wrestling Association championships in the 105-lbs weight class

So what the heck was the diminutive 25 year old doing last Aug 27, locked in bloody mixed martial arts combat in a caged steel ring at an events centre in Calgary?

McCrae was victorious in her debut bout for the Pallas Athena Women’s

Fighting Championships, a unanimous decision over Ami Lyczewski Her second match, scheduled for last Dec 17 against Cassie Warwick, was called off at the last minute and she’s still awaiting word on a new date

McCrae said the steel cage is not a place she ever

envisioned she’d end up as her collegiate wrestling career wound down during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic

In fact, when a coach at a gym where McCrae was training suggested she try MMA, her first reaction was, “Why would I want to go get punched in the face? That’s

barbaric”

But the more McCrae thought about it, the more she warmed to the idea Her competitive fire still burned, she was in shape and her background in wrestling might give her an edge over opponents who’ve migrated to the sport from traditional martial arts like jui-jitsu and

taekwondo

McCrae connected with a trainer, Shawn Albrecht at Ascension Martial Arts in Port Coquitlam, to get her bearings and she liked what she was learning

“Wrestlers have an advantage,” McCrae said “We know how to hold people We know how not to give up We can be adaptable”

‘KILL OR BE KILLED’

But to have success in the cage, McCrae said she had to “rewire” her brain In the “kill or be killed” world of MMA it’s not enough to pin your opponent in a vulnerable position for a threecount; you have to make them submit, extinguish their will to get up off the mat and fight for their own survival

Working with Albrecht taught McCrae how to fuse her wrestling knowledge with the techniques of martial arts, honed her fearsome determination, prepared her for the assaults that would come her way in the cage

“I knew I wasn’t the most skilful wrestler, but I have a lot of grit I don’t like to lose,” she said “You have to be tough to do this sport”

McCrae also found community in the cage Travelling to other gyms around Metro Vancouver to find female sparring part-

ners, she connected with the sport’s small, tight-knit corps of practitioners

“They’re very welcoming,” she said “If you’re a fighter and you want to fight and you respect the room, you’re accepted”

McCrae said every time she stepped into the cage, her confidence buoyed Any self-doubts she had about her choices started to diminish

“If they believe in me, then I need to stop with negative thoughts,” she said “I’m a hard worker I show up and I do what I’m told I’m serious”

Showing up at the gym wearing an old tie-dye T-shirt earned McCrae a new nickname, “The Violent Hippie,” that trumped her old wrestling handle, “WaWa,” which was what her dad called her when he yelled encouragement at her matches because that’s how her little brother had pronounced her name when he was a baby She liked the new identity

“Kindness and violence, that’s kinda my thing”

Still, training in a gym twice a day while wearing protective equipment isn’t the same as climbing into the cage for a real match It was also unlike anything

see GOAL, page 37

Port Moody’s Ciara McCrae celebrates a unanimous-decision victory in her mixed martial arts debut in Calgary last August 27. She’s embracing the sport after a successful wrestling career in high school and university SUBMITTED PHOTO

More local Sports coverage at your fingertips.

Terry Fox Ravens guard Sukhraj Garcha drives past West Vancouver Highlanders guard Zayed Ahmed in the first half of their opening round game at the BC High School

AAAA boys basketball championships, last Wednesday at the Langley Events Centre. Fox won 70-45 but then lost its quarter-final game 89-56 to the eventual champions, the Semiahmoo Thunderbirds. The Ravens finished the tournament in seventh while the Heritage Woods Kodiaks finished ninth. MARIO BARTEL/TRI-CITY NEWS

Goalistoturnprofessional

during her wrestling career

“It was definitely like being a mini-celebrity,” McCrae said of her experience in Calgary “They flew us in, we stayed at a really nice hotel, there were interviews, photo shoots It was surreal”

Despite the disappointment of having the rug

pulled out from under the second match of her amateur career, McCrae said she remains focused on her goal of turning pro But, she added, she’s not setting a timeline for that to happen

“When the time comes, it comes,” she said “There’s always opportunities I’ll be OK as long as I stick to the game plan and believe in myself”

And how does that aspiration sit with her family of wrestlers?

McCrae said her mom just wants her to get a “normal job,” and for her dad, “it’s hard for him to wrap his head around” even though he watches MMA on TV

But at the end of the day, she said, “I have nothing to prove to anyone but myself”

REMEMBRANCES

Obituaries

DONINI, Luella Fay

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Luel a Fay Don n on February 6, 2023

She spent the last 28 years l v ng n Port Coquitlam, BC, with fami y and fr ends unti she ost a va iant batt e with cancer

Lue la was born in The Pas Manitoba and moved to Pr nce George as a chi d She spent her teen years growing up in Prince George and married her first husband Bruce McGoniga there in 1972

Short y afterwards they moved to the Bulkley Va ley and sett ed in Te kwa There they raised to sons David and Michae Lue la spent many happy years n Te kwa making many friends and many fond memories Unfortunately, her marriage w th Bruce did not last and they d vorced in 1993

In 1995 she dec ded to move to Port Coqu tlam to be with her second husband George Don n They spent 28 caring years w th many aughs and adventures ike a trip to Italy and Hawaii Lue la was a people-person and oved ta king to anyone who cared to stop and chat and share a laugh She was especial y fond of bab es and would often cross a room to gather an infant in her arms She oved her famiy lke a mamma bear; especia y her grandchldren wh ch she greatly en oyed when they v s ted

She en oyed work ng with the publ c, espec al y during her t me working at a lotto kiosk She was also an excellent bow er and received many troph es in her youth She loved to read, and loved istening to music Her favourite art sts were E v s and Sade Luel a oved B ngo and going to the casino with her friends She a so loved playing card games with her friends and grandch ldren Lu loved to laugh and had a spec al charm that always kept us laughing Despite being afflicted with many ailments, Luel a bravely fought on with courage and without comp aint

Lue la is survived by her husband George her sons Mike (Flor) and Dav d (Mia) and stepson Andres

Don ni Her grandchi dren James and Justin McGon gal, Isabel a Don n , Clayton McGonigal, Brayden Donin and Emi ee Isabel e and Alessa McLearn A ong w th many n eces and nephews from both Canada and the USA

A celebration of ife wi l be held in her honour on March 25, 2023 from 1:00-4:00pm at the DeWolf Masonic Lodge 2660 Shaunessy Street, Port Coquitlam Everyone we come In lieu of flowers, p ease cons der a donation to the B C Cancer Society

LEGAL

GARAGE SALES

Warehouseman’s Lien Act

By virtue of the Warehouseman’s Lien Act Ben amin Towing Corp will dispose of: Whereas the following are ndebted to Ben am n Towing Corp for storage and tow ng on;

1) Registered Owner: Yeung Vincent 2004, Honda, Civ c (Gray)

VIN: SHHEP33554U800230

Impounded: March 12, 2022 Amount Due: $9,777 08

2) Registered Owner: Joey Allen Knight 2013, Kia, Rio (Brown)

VIN: KNADM4A39D6137041

mpounded: September 25, 2020 Amount Due: $24,192 42

A ien s claimed under the Act There s presently an amount due and owing p us any addit onal costs of storage, se zure and sa e on the above ment oned units

Not ce s hereby g ven that on the 31st day of March 2023 or thereafter, the sa d veh cles w l be sold These vehic es are current y stored at Ben am n Towing, 3050 Westwood St, Port Coquit am, BC V3C 3L7

EMPLOYMENT

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CARRIERS NEEDED