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The week ahead in New West: What's up Oct. 30 to Nov. 5?

Here’s a look at what's happening this week in New West
centennial-community-centre-2
A farewell celebration is taking place next weekend for Centennial Community Centre, which is closing.

Tuesday, of course, is Halloween – but it’s just of the many things happening in New West next week. Here’s a look at the week ahead in New Westminster.

For weather watchers:

It definitely felt like winter for a few days last week, when chilly days gave way to temperatures around the 0C-mark overnight. It’s looking like we’ll have similar weather to start the week – sunshiny and cool – before it warms up a few degrees and the rain returns on Wednesday.

For the latest weather updates, check out the New West Weatherhood forecast on the Record’s website.

For city council watchers:

If you’re a council watcher, this is your kind of week. Council has three public meetings on Monday, Oct. 30, including two workshops.

  • Amendments being proposed to the council code of conduct will be discussed at a workshop at 10:30 a.m.
  • Riverfront projects – and collaboration with First Nations – will be discussed at a workshop at 2:30 p.m. The city has selected facilitators who will help in early discussions with First Nations regarding the future of the New Westminster riverfront and Westminster Pier Park site that was destroyed by fire.

The evening council meeting gets underway at New Westminster City Hall and online at 6 p.m. It begins with presentations on: the 2023 homeless count; a proposed organizational structure related to responding to homelessness, mental health and substance use crises; and the cause of the leak that resulted in the unexpected closure of Canada Games Pool.

Items on the consent agenda – which mean they’re approved unless a council member “pulls” a report for discussion purposes – include: changes to various fees and rates; electric vehicle requirements for new residential buildings; and the 15-Minute City.

Council will also hear from delegations who had signed up to speak, consider a variety of bylaws related to items they’ve dealt with and deal with a motion regarding separation allowances for former mayors and councillors.

For school board watchers:

There’s no school board this week.

For families:

Some Sapperton businesses will be taking part in Trick or Treat East Columbia Street on Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s a chance for youngsters to do a little daytime trick or treating. Participating businesses will have a colourful poster displayed in their window.

For everyone: Community events

The final New West Farmers Market of the season is on Thursday, Nov. 2 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave. You’ll find fresh produce, plant-based food, food trucks, artisans, prepared foods, alcohol, live music, and family friendly activities.

Next weekend, the City of New Westminster is hosting a Farewell to Centennial Community Centre – Walk Through Memory Lane event. It features free 15-minute walks through the facility, at which time folks can collect a memento, take photos and participate in activities. Registration is recommended. The farewell is on Sunday, Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Centennial Community Centre, 65 East Sixth Ave.

The poppy blanket will be on display at venues around New Westminster: Nov. 1 to 3 – in the main lobby of Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia St;  and Nov. 4 to 8 at the Queensborough Community Centre, 920 Ewen Ave.

For folks needing a little inspiration:

PechaKucha New West returns to New West for Volume 32 on Saturday, Nov. 4. Attendees will get to hear from 10 speakers (showing 20 images, each lasting 20 seconds) speaking about an eclectic range of topics. It’s taking place in the second floor gallery of Fraser River Discovery Centre, 788 Quayside Dr. Tickets are $12 and must be purchased ahead of time. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the presentations begin at 8 p.m. 

For sports fans:

The New Westminster Secondary School Hyacks’ varsity football squad will take to the field at Mercer Stadium to play their final regular season of the game against St. Thomas More Collegiate. It’s also Senior Night, where the team recognizes graduating seniors and their families. The game is at 7:30 p.m.

For performance lovers:

Elvis and The Rise of Rock & Roll, presented by classic film scholar Michael van den Bos, explores Elvis Presley’s musical career via film and vintage TV clips. It’s happening in Studio 1B at the Eighth & Eight Creative Spaces. Three signature cocktails have been created for this event – My Way, Jailhouse on the Rocks, and All Shook Up.  It’s on Thursday, Nov. 2 from 7 to 9:15 p.m. Tickets are $21 to $27, plus service charges.

The Royal Canadian Theatre Company presents The Farndale Avenue Murder Mystery at Anvil Theatre. Tickets are $15 to $34.99. Showtimes: Friday, Nov. 3 (7:30 p.m.); Saturday, Nov. 4 (2 and 7:30 p.m.); and Sunday, Nov. 5 (2 p.m.)

Do you have a New Westminster happening you'd like to share? Email Theresa McManus at [email protected].