The annual Ratstravaganza is returning to the Royal City.
RatsPacNW, a pet rat club that includes members from B.C., Washington, Oregon and Idaho, organizes the show that features rat races and contests in a variety of categories, including Kissiest Rat, Biggest Rat, Rats with Disabilities, Funkiest Markings, Silliest Ears, Most Laid Back, Most Unusual, Most Talented, Senior Pet, Longest Tail, Squishiest, Best Rescue Story, Best Costume, Cutest Kitten, and Prettiest/Handsomest.
The event also includes a crafts table for the kids and a visit from Whiskers, the giant rat. Royal City resident Lizzy O'Sullivan has organized the local show in recent years but is taking a break after this year's show.
Everyone is welcome to attend Ratstravaganza, including rat lovers and people who are curious about the critters. Fans of domestic rats are known to say, "Once you go rat, you'll never go back," but you can judge for yourself.
Ratstravaganza is taking place on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Sapperton Pensioners Hall at 318 Keary St.
FIGHTING FIRES
Youth who are contemplating a future in firefighting may want to apply for the 2012 youth firefighter program.
Grade 11 and 12 students in New Westminster are invited to apply for the program, which offers a condensed fire academy situation. During the July 3 to 7 program, they will learn about auto extrication, first aid, fire education and live firefighting at the Justice Institute training ground in Maple Ridge.
Fire Chief Tim Armstrong said New Westminster Fire and Rescue Service is excited to support New Westminster youth through the program.
"We have seen benefits of the program to youth that have completed it in the past and we strive to make the program better every year," said Sandon Fraser, the city's youth services coordinator.
Applications, which are due by April 27, can be obtained at any of the city's parks, culture and recreation facilities, the Glenbrook fire hall or at www.newwestyouth.ca. The program is a partnership of New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services, New Westminster parks, culture and recreation, New Westminster school district and the Justice Institute of B.C.
HISTORY OF POWER
The New Westminster Historical Society is promising a powerful presentation in February.
The theme of the society's upcoming meeting is A Powerful Past, a Sustainable Future - the Heritage of Power. The presentation, being held during Heritage Week, will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 15 at 7: 30 p.m. in the auditorium of the New Westminster Public Library at 716 Sixth Ave.
The program, which will be presented by Archie Miller and Gavin Hainsworth, will look at New Westminster's early electricity and gas works.
"The story includes the sites of the buildings involved, some of the processes history, and anecdotes from the town as the new innovations were put into operation," stated a press release about the event. "Also included will be information on earlier forms of lighting and heating in the city, before electricity and gas. The use of the power of the waters of the Fraser River during the gold rush will also be noted."
The program is free. Everyone is welcome to attend and preregistration isn't required.
YOUTH HELPERS
The City of New Westminster is reaching out to youth who are interested in volunteering in the community.
The city is holding a volunteer orientation for youth who may be interested in volunteering with New Westminster parks, culture and recreation. Opportunities include volunteering at the Youth Centre at Moody Park, Queen's Park Petting Farm, Moody Park Arena, Century House, the Queensborough Community Centre, as well as at other facilities and at general special events.
The information session is being held on Saturday, Feb. 25 from 10 a.m. to noon at the youth centre. Students who attend will receive two hours of volunteer credits and orientation is mandatory for youth who are interested in volunteering with New Westminster parks, culture and recreation.
The orientation session is free, but preregistration is requested. Call 6045191066 to register.
Do you have an item for Around Town? Email Theresa, tmcmanus@royalcityrecord. com.
