Dean Gibson, the city's director of parks, culture and recreation, has joined a list of accomplished citizens who have received Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medals.
Mayor Wayne Wright presented Gibson with his medal at the June 10 committee of the whole meeting.
He said Gibson's contribution ranges from the community to the provincial level, and to the national level, noting he has served on the board of B.C. Recreation and Parks Association as director, president-elect and president and, as a board member, has been recognized for his leadership and thoughtful, credible voice for recreation at the national level.
"A resident of New Westminster, Dean is passionate about this community. He leads the parks, culture and recreation department with more than 200 staff in our community centres, pools, arenas, museums and archives, parks, and soon, the new Anvil Centre," Wright said.
Municipalities and organizations across the country were invited to nominate persons for the honour.
Become a citizen scientist at Hume
Royal City residents are invited to take part in the inaugural event of the Uncover Your Creeks: Citizen Science program at Hume Park.
The city's parks, culture and recreation department is teaming up with Evergreen to offer a two-year parks stewardship program in lower Hume Park. Participants will learn about local economy, help manage invasive plants, plant native plants and monitor water quality in the Brunette River.
The official program launch is taking place on Sunday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
After that, monthly citizen science training and activities will be offered on the third Sunday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon.
Anyone interested in attending this free event is invited to meet at the lower Hume Park picnic shelter (East Columbia Street/Holmes Street). All ages are welcome.
Anyone wanting more information or to register, can contact Sharon Johal at [email protected] or call 604-689-0766 extension 226.
Fellowship for Peter Legge
New Westminster native Peter Legge has been awarded Douglas College's highest distinction.
Legge, CEO of Canada Wide Media, has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship. He is an honorary member of Douglas College Foundation Board, a donor to the college and has lent his name, expertise and influence to the Peter Legge International Institute for Sales Excellence at Douglas College.
"To receive the highest recognition from a much respected college that has two campuses - one in the town I was raised in, and the second, in the community I live in - is an absolute honour," he said in a press release. "I am humbled by this recognition."
Legge, an inspirational speaker, has won numerous awards for his inspirational and motivational talks.
"Mr. Legge is a warm, engaging family man, who believes strongly in mentoring and supporting youth, particularly through education," said Douglas College president Scott McAlpine. "He inspires people to hone their unique talents and do what they love."
Legge accepted his award June 5 at a graduation ceremony at the New Westminster campus.
"Mr. Legge is a natural fit for Honorary Fellow," said Paul Wates, chair of the Douglas College Board. "He is a highly successful businessman who believes in helping others and giving back to his community. He is someone we can all look up to."
According to a Douglas College press release, Legge has raised millions of dollars for a variety of community causes, particularly Variety - The Children's Charity, which he's been involved with for more than 30 years.
"My father once told me to give back to the community infinitely more than you take out," he said of his father Bernie Legge. "This could be your time, talent and sometimes our money. Personally I can raise more money than I could ever possibly give."
Historical look at automobiles
The New Westminster Historical Society will be taking a glimpse at the local auto history at this month's presentation.
The society's next presentation is on Wednesday at 7: 30 p.m. in the New Westminster Public Library's auditorium.
The topic is: Cars, Service Stations, and Mr. Trapp's McLaughlin Buick - A Glimpse At Local Auto History.
"This presentation will blend a glimpse at early automobile history in New Westminster with the much broader story of 'the car'. Gary Miller, well versed in the history of the automobile, from fascinating trivia to the name and model of any car you'd like to name, will describe some local car history, auto-related events and service stations as pieced together by historian Archie Miller," stated a press release about the presentation. "You'll learn about local automobile history and Gary's expertise and enthusiasm will bring to life some wonderful early photos of cars in the Royal City."
The photos include street views with early cars and trucks, early autos with their proud owners, gas and service stations.
The presentation is free and everyone is welcome.
