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What's happening Around Town?

Quest New West returns, New Westminster Council of Women get social and Gurdwara Sahib Sukh Sagar helps kids have a ball
Quest2
Quest New West is returning on Canada Day - and every Thursday in July.

Quest New West is returning for a second round starting on July 1.

Douglas College and the Downtown New Westminster Business Improvement Association are teaming up to present season two of #QuestNewWest, which gives community members a chance to explore downtown New West, enjoy local eateries and win some great prizes along the way, including a grand prize of $1,000 cash.   

“New Westminster residents have been asking for another shot at Quest New West,” said a press release from organizers. “The feedback following the inaugural series was overwhelmingly positive. ‘Super fun! Our family had a great time, and it was something to look forward to each week during these nutty times. And darned if I didn’t learn more about the Royal City while questing!’ recalled one participant about their experience.”

This year’s fun starts at noon on Canada Day on the boardwalk near River Market, when the first 50 participants to play will be treated to a free gelato from Tre Galli in River Market. The Quest New West team will be onsite from noon to 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 1 to help participants get started on their journey.

The opening week’s action includes a performance by local musician Kaya Kurz. Prizes from Butcher’s Table, Piva Modern Italian, Spud Shack and Re-Up BBQ will also be up for grabs.

After the opening week fun, a new Quest will take place every Thursday in July, with the details being announced at noon that day. Quests will include challenges and clues, pop-up event details, and weekly prizes from downtown New West restaurants.  

For all the details, visit www.fridaysquest.com. You can also follow @downtownnewwest on social media for ongoing updates and insider information.

Get connected

Women are invited to get connected with other women at an online social taking place this month.

The New Westminster Council of Women is holding an online social on Wednesday, June 23 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

“To get us through the final stages of pandemic restrictions and inspire us with new connections, the New Westminster Council of Women is hosting a Zoom social said a notice about the event. “We are planning a fun time with breakout rooms, trivia and a chance to chat with other women in small groups.”

Lesley Hebert, president of the local group, said the New Westminster Council of Women is a member of the National Council of Women of Canada and has been coming together to improve the lives of women, families and the community since 1893.

The group is suggesting participants make a $5 donation to attend the June 23 social. Anyone interested in attending can email [email protected] for the Zoom link.

Having a ball

A much-appreciated donation to New West schools has special significance to the Gurdwara Sahib Sukh Sagar.

On June 11, representatives from the gurdwara, accompanied by New Westminster-Burnaby MP Peter Julian, visited Lord Kelvin Elementary School to deliver hundreds of were soccer balls, basketballs, footballs and volleyballs for use by students from throughout the New Westminster school district.

In a statement to the Record, the gurdwara said the significance of 400 balls is to honour the 400th anniversary of the 9th Sikh Guru, Tegh Bahadhur, who sacrificed his own life to save those from another faith – showing “Seva” and that we are indeed all one.

“We want to broaden our outreach when it comes to our volunteering and Seva (selfless service),” said the statement.

Harbhajan Singh Atwal, president of the Gurdwara Sahib Sukh Sagar in Queensborough, said the gurdwara is grateful to have an opportunity to partner with Julian and contribute to local schools. 

“This year has been difficult for everyone, especially for young students who have faced major changes,” Julian said in a press release. “I am very thankful for Gurdwara Sahib Sukh Sagar’s generosity ... We hope that these sports balls will allow students to enjoy some time outdoors.”

“On behalf of the district, I would like to extend our sincerest thank-you to MP Peter Julian and Gurdwara Sahib Sukh Sagar,” Gurveen Dhaliwal, chair of the New Westminster school board, said in the release. “This pandemic has hit many families in very challenging ways, especially for those who were already struggling with lower incomes. We know our students will be delighted to use the balls being donated, as they engage in outside play and exploration.”  

According to Julian’s office, the gurdwara purchased the sports balls and invited Julian to co-host the donation event.

Follow Theresa McManus on Twitter @TheresaMcManus
Email [email protected]