JOHN YAP, MLA FOR RICHMOND STEVESTON

For immediate release
November 24, 2005

Richmond MLAs Help Deliver Important Initiatives In Fall Session

Victoria - Richmond MLAs say the fall Legislative Session was highlighted by a focus on the economy, protection for firefighters and better resources for seniors. Members wrapped up business Thursday and will now be in their home constituencies to meet with local residents and continue their hard work on a number of local issues.

"The reduction of the corporate income tax rate from 13.5 to 12 per cent will benefit the entire economy," said John Yap, MLA for Richmond-Steveston. "B.C. is already leading the nation in job growth and has a record low unemployment rate, and this tax reduction will ensure we are competitive and continue to create jobs."

"The emphasis on seniors in the budget update this Session was good to see," says Richmond Centre MLA Olga Ilich. "The renewal of the Seniors Supplement, the improvements to rental supplements and funds for the upgrading of seniors facilities will be of great benefit to those who helped build our province."

"I am also pleased to see wait times have decreased this fall for hip and knee reconstruction surgeries as a result of a pilot project at Richmond Hospital," Ilich said. "This is due to the opening of a sixth operating room opening at the facility."

The Legislative Session will resume February 2, 2006.

For immediate release
November 16, 2005

Yap proud of work done on Finance Committee

VICTORIA - Richmond-Steveston MLA John Yap says a committee of which he is a part of is recommending balanced investments in the economy, communities and individuals. The Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services traveled around B.C. and listened to people about how the province's finances should be handled.

"It was my honour to work on this committee and hear from well over 100 witnesses, reading close to 300 written submissions and nearly 4,000 online responses," says Yap. "There are 21 recommendations that the committee has put forth on the province's fiscal priorities."

The committee is making specific recommendations on such areas as a debt management plan, fair and reasonable wage guidelines for public sector workers, and the gradual reduction of the Provincial Sales Tax. The report also recommends government provide funding to enhance environmental stewardship programs. It was tabled Tuesday in the Legislative Assembly.

"I would like to thank those who took the time to contribute and to let them know that their contributions were important in developing the final report," said Yap. "This document will now go to the Finance Ministry for consideration, and it is my sincere hope that the
information we have provided will be useful."

The all-party parliamentary committee is comprised of both government and opposition members, and they unanimously adopted the report.

The committee's work continues in other areas, as it studies the provincial government's spending and financial activities.

For more information, contact Brent Shepherd, B.C. Government caucus communications, 250-387-8589.

CYNTHIA CHEN – RICHMOND CITY COUNCELLOR-ELECT

Thank you everyone for this auspicious electoral victory on Nov. 19. I could not have realized this victory without the help of all my supporters, volunteers, friends loving husband and son. Steveston is my home and I am proud to serve.

I am indeed blessed that so many special people around me, who believed strongly in me and my commitments to make changes, for the good of the Richmond Community and the foresight of greater developments to a wonderful future for generations to come surround me.

It is imperative that we protect what we have and improve on what we have not. I believe when we work hard together, we will make sure that the community as a whole will not suffer by any impulsive or ill considered decisions.

I want to make sure that every decision will be considered as a whole, whereby the entire community will grow like an oak tree strong and firm, with each branch of the City Hall supporting each other, working in harmony as one, reaching out to other related organizations and the community.

I want to be approachable and connected to the grass roots and listen to all your concerns. You and the community will have to make your voice heard and I will consider the feedback from the public that will affect the welfare of all the good citizens of Richmond.

I believe this is my calling and I will do my very best to address all concerns good and bad. I am indeed honored that you have elected me to serve you and I will make you proud.

12TH HOUSE HEALING ARTS

Gift Certificates
Personal and unique, for that special someone this Christmas
Astrological Readings - Based on time of birth
Bio-Energy Massage - 30, 60, 90 and 120 minute sessions incorporating hot stones, cranial sacral, shiatsu, reflexology & more...
Classical Homeopathy - Care for your health with constitutional treatment for the physical, emotional and mental bodies. www.12thhousehealingarts.ca, Catherine Dean LPN DCH, 604-271-HEAL (4325)

RAINTREE SPA

December Feature Treatment: Winter Solstice - Take the chill off with our 'essence of the holidays' aromatherapy wrap. Soothing swedish massage is used to apply a combination of mandarin, cinnamon, amarys & cedarwood essential oils to your body. While cocooned in warm heated blankets (to aid in absorbtion of essential oils), your feet experience hot towel wraps and a relaxing foot massage. The grande finale -- a soothing scalp massage to ease away tension and alleviate holiday-season stress. Head to toe bliss. 1hr, 15 mins, $85. Offer expires Dec. 31/05. Can be pre-booked for the month of January.

Toast the Holidays Tea Tasting — Thursday December 1, 6:30-7:30pm - Learn great tea recipe ideas guaranteed to heat up your Christmas, Hanukah and winter season. Find out how to make tea punch, mulled teas, tea martinis, tea-infused spirits, tea sangrias and dreamy dessert drinks. Your drinks will look as divine as they taste, and are perfect for effortless holiday entertaining. Special discounts on selected teas and supplies will be in effect. Cost: $5 per person. Seating is limited. Call 604-274-4426 to reserve your spot. Proceeds to the Raincoast Conservation Society.

All that Glitters - A night of shopping for Nite of Hope - Thursday December 8, 6:30-8:30pm
Eat, drink and be merry! Kick off your holiday shopping season and help raise money for breast cancer research. Be the first to get a glimpse of our new holiday merchandise and gift ideas... tins of Silk Road tea dressed in organza bags; cellophane-wrapped home spa products and Jane Iredale makeup; one-of-a-kind handmade tea pots and cups from Salt Spring Island. We have everything you need to make your holiday shopping shiny, bright and easy.

You can also purchase the latest Fifth Avenue Collection of jewellery – from earrings and necklaces, to toe rings and ankle bracelets - supplied by Jeannine Matick. Fifth Avenue jewellery is renowned for quality, using only crystals from Swarovski components, gleaming pearls, natural gemstones, the hardness and beauty of Triple A quality cubic zirconia and solid 14 Karat gold posts..

Enjoy a selection of holiday tea samples and tasty tea-inspired nibbles while you shop. 10% of all sales from this event go to Nite of Hope for breast cancer research. Enter to win a $100 Raintree spa gift certificate. You can also win $50 worth of Fifth Avenue jewellery, compliments ofJeannine.
Please RSVP by November 28/05.

Give the gift of relaxation this holiday season. Treat those on your list with a Raintree spa gift certificate.

PADDLEWHEEL RIVER BOAT TOURS

CHRISTMAS CRUISES ON BOARD AN AUTHENTIC PADDLEWHEELER
There’s Nothing Like It! With So Many Options To Choose From and Our Vessel Is Beautifully Decorated for the Festive Season. Questions please call 604-525-4465 or a1a52794@telus.net

Private Cruise: Looking for a private cruise for a company function or a large family gathering, this will suit your needs up to 80 persons. You pick your time and your menu. Call us for more details.

Christmas Lunch 12:30 – 3PM Saturday, December 10th & 17th
Sunday, December 11th & 18th + Thursday, December 22nd & Friday, December 23rd
Just too many things happening at this time of year! Take a break and join us for lunch which will include a turkey buffet with all the trimmings. $39.95 + gst.

Christmas Dinner 4 – 6:30PM Saturday, December 10th & 17th
This cruise is the best way to handle all those relatives that are coming to visit or for a small office party. Includes a full turkey dinner buffet with all the trimmings and we’ll squeeze in some carol singing as well. $39.95 + gst.

Deluxe Dinner: 6 – 9PM Sunday, December 4th, 11th & 18th
This will give you the best of both worlds. Enjoy hors d’ouvres to start and then we’ll get to the main course with turkey and all that goes with it. $45.00 + gst.

Family Christmas Dinner: 6 – 9PM December 19th & 21st
Perfect timing for your guests that are coming in from out of town and the kids are out of school so no worries about a school day the following day. We’ll have a look at all the great light displays in and around the New Westminster Quay, plus we’ll have time for carol singing as well. Adults $39.95 + gst, Child (6-12) $29.95 + gst, Child 5 & Under FREE.

Boxing Week Sail: 11:30AM – 2PM Wednesday, December 28th

This is the day to relax after all the festive celebrations

CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE ON AN AUTHENTIC PADDLEWHEELER RIVERBOAT ON THE FRASER
DELUXE BARON OF BEEF BUFFET!!
FULLY LICENSED!!
FREE GLASS OF BUBBLY
AT MIDNIGHT!!
PARTY FAVOURS & NOISE MAKERS!!
TICKETS JUST $75.00* PER PERSON
PRIVATE ROOM AVAILABLE - $95.00* P.P.
(MIN. 10 / MAX. 15 PERSONS)
DINE & DANCE TO 50's & UP!!!
D.J. HOST 9 pm TO 1 am
*Please add 7% GST to all prices

STEVESTON SEAFOOD HOUSE

The Year 1978: The top song of 1978 was Shadow Dancing by Andy Gibb…The year Pope John Paul was elected Pope…The movie the Deer Hunter came out with Robert DiNiro…Most Importantly Steveston Seafood House Opened! We are renovating and can now accommodate private parties up to 60 people. Gift Certificates and Take Away Available 604.271.5252

H2O HAIR & NAIL CO.

OPEN HOUSE on Tues & Wed., Dec 6th & 7th 10 am to 8 pm both days ! Door prizes & refreshments 230-12240 second Ave. Richmond (Steveston village) 604 241 5593 drop in and say hi, we'd love to see you

BASIC NATURE HEALTH AND BODY STORE

Would like to welcome Mia Luecking a Nutritional Counselor to our team of Holistic Practitioners.

JET-LAG TRAVEL FASHION BOUTIQUE

For Christmas, black tie, weddings or evening wear we have a great selection of fashion wear dresses and separates. Introducing a gorgeous line of handcrafted jewellery from Blue Moon Studio in Richmond. Travel friendly easy care casual wear featuring Ezze Wear and French Dressing. Samsonite travel accessories. Specials: 45% off Delane Handbags, save $17 on Yukon Fleece Vests Reg. $55 for $38. Free gift-wrapping. Open late Thurs to 7:30 pm.

Jet-Lag Travel Fashion Boutique offers "Fashion Pilates" Sunday mornings 8:45 am - 10 am from January 8, 2006. With a focus on toning abdominal muscles and arms for women, 10 classes for $150 includes a store coupon for $25 on min. $75 purchase. Instructor Debbie Piro. Book soon, these are expected to sell out fast as there has been high demand for Sunday morning classes in Richmond. Call 604-277-3331. Mastercard, Visa and Debit accepted.

Come visit us at your friendly community store - where tea/coffee is always on. Find travel wear tips at www.jet-lagtravelfashion.com. See us before you see the world, or before you step out. Jet-lag Travel Fashion Boutique #110-12031 2nd Ave., Steveston Village, Richmond, B.C. (604) 277-3331.

Thank you,
Best wishes,
Vicki Hodgson
Jet-Lag Travel Fashion Boutique

TREASURES BOUTIQUE

Located at 12240 Second Avenue (between Moncton Street and the Wharf) at Bayview Quay in Historic Steveston Village.

Lynda and Barbara are offering a 20% discount on all items in the boutique, commencing December 1st through and including December 24th, 2005. This is a fabulous opportunity to shop with great savings before the "Holiday Season".

When your Holiday plans call for elegance, glitter or sparkle, be sure to include Treasures Boutique on your next Steveston shopping date. Barbara and Lynda will assist you in putting together that special outfit that will be sure to dazzle. We have a wide range of styles and sizes, and if you don't see it ..... we would be pleased to look for that special item for you. Our holiday accessories, including evening bags, silk and velvet shawls, beaded jackets, and be-dazzling jewellery, are certain to add that festive touch. Treasures also carries Lothantique French soaps, lotions and oils.

"The holiday lines" are here, so we hope you will drop by and find a Treasure for that holiday gift for someone special, or maybe find a treat for yourself. Shop early to experience some of the best selections in "sassy and classy" fashions available in the Steveston area, all at fabulous prices! Gift Certificates are also available for that special someone.

Treasures winter hours: Tuesday to Saturday 11.30 am to 5.30 pm. Sunday 12.00 to 5.00 pm. Tel: (604) 275-7119.

Happy Holidays !

STEPIN' OUT

This is a special invitation for you and a friend to join us on December 1st for an evening of Christmas shopping. We are offering a "NO GST/NO PST SALE" for this festive occasion.
Please bring us a pair of your old shoes for donation to a Richmond Charity.
Mark this date, December 1st, 5pm-8pm, on your calendar to drop by and have a hot apple cidar with us and enjoy shopping for that "special Christmas gift" for your friend, mom, sister, co-worker and/or "a gift just for you".
#120 12000 First Ave., Phone: 604-304-0602, Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 to 5:30 (closed Tuesday) Sunday 12:00 to 5:00
PS: FYI, we will be moving just around the corner (No. 1 Rd & Moncton) in the New Year, so keep in touch..........stay tuned to further updates.
We look forward to seeing you on December 1st. Duane and Sue Laviolette

SATORI INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CENTRE - 12004 No.1 Road Richmond BC

Now offering: Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Counselling, Homeopathy, Massage Therapy
**Massage Therapy Gift Certificates Now Available for Christmas**
**Wellness Packages Now Available from $500**
Call Satori Integrative Health Centre at 604 274 7224 for details or visit www.satoriintegrativehealth.com

FUSION FITNESS STUDIO:

Check out our specialty classes
Pilates Reformer Classes
We offer private one-on-one personal training sessions where you will be trained in a personalized program (excellent if you need injury rehabilitation or have a special chronic condition) and then buy group personal training time by the hour to suit your schedule.

We also have “instructor-led” Group Pilates Reformer classes (class size limited to 4). These are pre-registered progressive classes that will take you from the beginner level to advanced levels.

Don't know what the reformer is? Call to come in and have a FREE “test drive” to see what the reformer feels like. Call the studio at 604-275-1110 for more information.

We also have:
Prenatal Yoga on Monday at 7:15 pm and Wednesday at 6:05 pm
Mom & Baby Yoga Wednesday at 11:00 am
Candlelight Yoga Wednesday at 7:15 pm

Check out our schedule at www.fusionfitnessstudio.com

We also have the studio available for hourly rent. Ideal for workshops, dancers, musicians, artists, etc... Call us at 604-275-1110 to reserve.

Thanks,
Ramona Bianco
Fusion Fitness Ltd.
310 - 12211 First Avenue
Steveston BC
604-275-1110
www.fusionfitnessstudio.com

SOCKEYE CITY GRILL

108 - 3800 Bayview Street, Steveston, would like to invite you to our special dinner events planned for the fall season.

Event Evenings:
Every Monday night after 5 PM

Every Wednesday night after 5 PM

Every Thursday night after 5 PM

Early reservations are recommended 604 275 - 6790

Call for more information. Reservations 604 275 6790, Email – sockeyecity@telus.net
For more detailed information please see our website: http://www.sockeyecity.com

www.OwnaNiceHome.com

Deb Robson – Re/Max Westcoast – 604-328-3507
Diane Cardoso – Prudential United Realty Jesani – 604-218-1412
Over 30 years combined experience…
2 Top Real Estate Professionals….2 Top Companies …. ready when YOU are!

STEVESTON VILLAGE GALLERY

Dear Art Lovers, Mark Your Calendars for Thursday, December 1!
Opening Night Reception
’Synergy Between Venice and Frida’
Thursday, December 1, 2005
7pm to 9pm
RSVP tfisher@sprint.ca

Daytime Open for Architects and Designers Thursday, December 1, 2005 11am to 5pm RSVP tfisher@sprint.ca

This is a long email but if you read all the way through you will find a wonderful surprise!

I am really excited to tell you about our upcoming show featuring the abstract acrylic stylings of Donna Swain, the colourful European paintings of David McHolm and the life sized sculpture of Frida Kahlo by Sonja Picard.

Donna Swain’s earliest explorations began with drawing images which evolved in creating illusions in form, colour, texture and design. She was educated at U.B.C., Langara College, and the Fine Arts Program at Okanagan University College. She is a member of the Canadian Federation of Artists and has been in many juried shows in the Lower Mainland and Washington winning many awards. Her work has also been shown in Preview Magazine and Art Avenue Magazine and shows regularly at Steveston Village Gallery. Her new abstract collection is titled ’Synergy’ and will take you to the frontiers of abstract painting.

David McHolm was born and raised in eastern Canada until he moved to Vancouver in 1989. He retired from graphic design several years ago to pursue his dream of painting full time. He is an active member of the FCA and is very active in life drawing and plein air (painting outside) painting. He has won several awards locally as well as being featured in Art Avenue Magazine. His new show is the luscious fruit of his trip to Italy and France this summer. A book containing images of his work will be available for viewing in the gallery prior to the exhibit for pre-sales. Call Tamaka at 604.241.5771 for more info.

Sonja Picard is a Canadian sculptor and jewelry designer who is influenced by contemporary and Eastern elements. She studied ceramics at Capilano College and established Mud Pie Studio in downtown Vancouver in 1992. In 1996 she moved her studio to Richmond and thus became the turning point in her career to large scale sculptures and architectural ceramics. Frida Kahlo and her life has been an inspiration to Sonja and this sculptural homage to Kahlo is the centerpiece of the exhibit.

Many thanks to all who came to our ‘Voices of Colour’ reception featuring the glass sculptures of Vigantas Paulauskas and the paintings of Tamaka Fisher, Judith Gillis and Jeanette Jarville.
There are many gorgeous pieces still available until November 29 and what a wonderful gift of love they would make for the holidays. Paintings in this exhibit start at $280. and commissioned works may be available by mid December.

We have lots of gift ideas in all price ranges for those special people on your list! Here are just a few-

And here is our surprise holiday gift to you- WE PAY YOUR * GST on any purchase of in-stock paintings from November 19 to December 5, 2005.

Come down and see why Steveston Village Gallery gifts are never RE-gifted !

Peace and love,

Tamaka Fisher
Artist/Director

Steveston Village Gallery
#125-3900 Bayview Street
Richmond, V7E 6B9
604.241.5771
www.stevestonvillagegallery.com

*not to be used with any other discounts or promotions.

www.TheRichmondPhoneGuy.com

For really Fast Service specializing in phone-line(s) placement, computer networking and wiring installs and repairs within the home/small office environment including custom jack installations, jack repairs and changes. You'll like the difference in the way we handle your needs! Forget the BIG guys:
You now have direct access to experienced and knowledgeable Inside wire - Installation and Repair technicians at affordable rates. If your line is in trouble, or you're needing jacks added, moved or repaired, call 604 275-3548 for FAST and friendly service.....by Appointment! Free estimates on residential work within Richmond. Seniors qualify for discounted labour costs. Find me Online at Superpages.ca (Business Directory: - look for 'Phoneguy' and 'BC' ) or in the Directory of Richmond/South Delta, look under 'Telephone Service - Local' . Proud Member of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce. Licensed and Insured in the City of Richmond. Available for Emergency call-out.
To learn more, visit: http://www.TheRichmondPhoneGuy.com

SEASCAPE GIFT BASKETS

Your one stop shop for Gourmet Gift Baskets. Christmas is rapidly approaching. Check out our selection of Christmas baskets, Christmas Bins, and larger Christmas Trays on the Christmas Gifts page of our web site. We offer large Christmas baskets, smaller gifts wrapped in a painted Christmas oval bin, or Christmas trays which may be customized for your business or personal Christmas party needs.

Our Gourmet Gift Baskets make the perfect gift for all occasions. We allow you to shop easily and quickly from the comfort of your own home. Send that special gift that everyone loves to receive and it have it personally delivered within the Lower Mainland. We also ship throughout BC and Canada. We carry a selection of other products such as, picnic backpacks children's furniture, and hug-to-dry baby bath towels (the perfect gift for new mothers).

We design baskets for individuals or large groups, making our baskets the perfect "corporate gift". Our baskets can be customized by adding Mineral waters, Non Alcoholic wines or quality BC VQA wines, as well as choosing from our selection of options to make your gift truly unique. If you have special requirements, please e-mail us or call us. We would be pleased to assist you.

Our website is user friendly and easy to navigate. Please check us out at: www.seascapegiftbaskets.com

PANGAEA CLINIC OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

Pangaea Clinic Newsletter: Cardiovascular disease and plaque! www.pannaturopathic.com
Dr Tawnya Ward and Eric Chan, 120-12011 Second Ave, Steveston Village, Richmond, BC, 604-275-0163

OCEANA MASSAGE

Provides blissful, relaxation massage incorporating Tragger, Stretching, Cross Fibre and Reflexology. Imagine hot towels, aromatherapy compresses and a personalized aromatherapy blend; it is amazingly relaxing, grounding, and loosens every body part. It is mobile and travels the whole Lower Mainland. My contact is 604 307 0217. Susan

THE PHOENIX ARTWORKSHOP #8-3891 Chatham St, Richmond BC, V7E 2Z6, 604-448-1860

Season Greeting!

Thanks you all for your support over the last year! For those of you who have expressed interest in our upcoming classes for next year our Flyer will be printed again in the Richmond News December 9th Issue or will be posted on our web sight next week (PDF). If you haven't been in the store lately there have been lots of changes and tons of new products. As always gift certificates are available for Framing, Supplies and Classes, so this year Give the Gift of Art!

Please join us this weekend for our annual student exhibition Saturday December 3rd from 7pm - 10pm or on Sunday December 4th noon-4pm and see what our students have been up to this past year.

For those of you who have been asking ...yes I have started to paint again!

Christmas Blow Out Specials
Winton Oil Easel sets MSRP $121.50 on sale for only $78.97
Galleria Acrylic Easel Sets MSRP $121.50 on Sale for $79.97
Winsor and Newton Leather pocket journals $ 14.95
Cotman Starter Watercolour Portfolio Sets $79.00 on Sale for $34.50
Liquitex High Viscosity Wood Box Set regularly $145.00 Only $72.50
Winton Oil set with Travel Bag .... Awesome deal at Only $49.97

For lots more specials and information on our classes see our web site www.phoenixartworkshop.com