The New West Farmers Market is gearing up for its 16th season with an exciting Opening Day Block Party on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 3 PM to 7 PM at Tipperary Park. Running every Thursday until October 30, the market will feature over 50 vendors offering fresh, locally grown and produced food.

This year’s opening celebration promises family-friendly entertainment, delicious food, and exciting giveaways. Attendees can enjoy a free block party featuring a piñata, face painting, balloon animals, and children’s crafts. Local food vendors like Odd Burger and Crema Ice Cream will be on-site to serve dinner and dessert.

Live music from Ally Jean will set the mood, and visitors can participate in the opening ceremony to officially welcome the market’s return. The first 100 guests will receive complimentary cupcakes, while a Silent Auction will offer unique items from local vendors and businesses. Visitors can also win market-themed prizes and take advantage of special membership deals.

For a chance to win $20 in Market Money, attendees are encouraged to share photos of their market haul on social media.

Sponsored by Key West Ford, the event celebrates community connection and sustainability, inviting residents to shop local and support environmentally responsible food practices. Shoppers are encouraged to bring reusable bags, an appetite, and the whole family for an evening of fun and fresh finds.

Read the press release here.

🏫 Parents Rally as Delays Stall New Westminster School Project 🗯️

The wait for a new elementary school in New Westminster continues, leaving families frustrated and demanding action. Simcoe Elementary, a proposed 600-student school, has been stalled in the approval process for over three years, despite being labeled an urgent priority by the local school board.

Maya Russell, chair of the New Westminster school board, emphasized the critical need for approval in a letter to the city council on February 28. In response, council members voted on March 10 to send a letter to the education minister, advocating for the school district’s long-term capital needs.

Frustration has now led parents to organize a rally on Saturday, March 15, outside the office of New Westminster-Coquitlam MLA and Minister of Labour Jennifer Whiteside. The demonstration aims to pressure the province to fast-track funding and construction.

The District Parent Advisory Council has voiced concerns over ongoing delays, noting that despite repeated assurances of a funding announcement, no progress has been made. They argue that students cannot continue to wait while the district struggles with overcrowding and difficult facility decisions.

Originally, SD40 planned for the school to be completed by 2027, but with no funding secured, that timeline remains uncertain. Parents and school officials are now calling on the provincial government to act immediately and make the long-promised investment in public education.

⛈️ Rain Joke of the Day 🌧️

🌧️ Why did the rain bring a ladder? 🪜

☁️ To reach new heights! ☁️

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New West Farmers Market Opens + Simcoe Elementary School Rally

Issue #171

Inside the New West Spotlight

Read New West Spotlight Online

March 15, 2025

March 16, 2025

March 17, 2025

🥕 New West Farmers Market Opens 16th Season with Festive Block Party 🎉