The Richmond News is dedicated to delivering community news promptly and succinctly, and sometimes these stories lead us down rabbit holes that require a little more digging than usual. In no particular order, here are some of our top feature stories and investigations about the Richmond community this year:
1. International friendship formed over mission to turn cow poop into compost
Former Richmond city councillor Harold Steves remains as busy as ever after retiring from council. Back in spring, the Richmond News learned more about Steves' latest project working with a Chinese researcher to turn cow poop into compost. The potentially game-changing technology will help cut down the time for the process and be much more affordable.
2. Touring an abandoned landfill spilling trash into the Fraser River
Local artist Steve LaRocca, better known as FraserRiverFinds on social media, has been creating art with materials found at an abandoned landfill between No. 6 and 8 roads. Debris from the landfill, including plastic bags and tires, has been consistently spilling into the Fraser River, polluting the marine environment. To learn more about the dire situation, the News took a tour of the area and spoke to LaRocca about his work to raise awareness on the issue.
3. Community members weigh in on assisted dying for those with mental illness
In March 2024, people struggling with their mental health will become eligible for medical assistance in dying (MAID). A Richmond non-profit, however, was concerned about the lack of research into the issue. In the News' feature on the topic, Pathways Clubhouse explains why the initiative goes against its beliefs.
4. Meet the dynamic duo who restored nostalgic Honda scooters from the 1980s
If you've ever spotted two adorable red and yellow compact scooters cruising around the city and wondered what they were, the News has just the story for you. On a sunny summer day, the News met up with the two Richmondites who restored Honda Motocompo scooters from the 1980s and dove into their love for the Japanese car community.
5. Richmond hotel and strikers remain in deadlock after six months
Employees of the Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel walked off the job six months ago to demand better pay. Now six months later, strikers are gearing up for a long winter with no end in sight. In this feature, the News speaks with strikers to reflect on the prolonged bargaining process, including their concerns about the employer and the union.
6. Richmond's oldest fundraising duo walks on
For the past two decades, two Richmondites have been dedicated to raising funds for the annual Oxfam walkathon and other local community causes. One a nonagenarian and the other in her late 70s, the duo bonded over mutual respect and their passion for helping their neighbours.
7. This 101-year-old Steveston resident never misses her morning walks
Steveston residents may be curious about the lady who sits outside Waves Coffee wearing yellow boots, a blue jacket and a colourful beret every morning. In an interview with the 101-year-old senior, the News learned more about this community icon and her secret to staying healthy.
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