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School district welcomes returning board chair and new vice chair

Trustee Donna Sargent was re-elected as chairperson of the board of education while trustee Grace Tsang was elected as vice chairperson at the inaugural meeting of the Richmond board of education, Monday.

Trustee Donna Sargent was re-elected as chairperson of the board of education while trustee Grace Tsang was elected as vice chairperson at the inaugural meeting of the Richmond board of education, Monday.

Im excited to serve and work with the incredible staff at Richmond for the betterment of students, said Sargent. Its my privilege to continue my work with the board to help increase student achievement.

Tsang said, After serving on the board for the past six years, its a pleasure to serve as vice chair to the board for one of the most vibrant and diverse school communities in the Lower Mainland.

Its my aspiration to continue as a conduit and voice between parents, students and the Richmond School District.

UPDATE: Prolific offender charged

Prolific car thief Michael George Kenneth Reddy was charged with possession of stolen property, possession of break and enter tools, fleeing from a police officer and dangerous driving in Richmond Provincial Court.

Reddy has been remanded in custody awaiting his next court appearance.

The truck was reported missing by its owner at 4:20 a.m. Monday. An hour later the vehicle was seen by Richmond RCMP heading to the Dinsmore Bridge. Vancouver Police Department was contacted for assistance. Redding proceeded towards the Cambie Street Skytrain station where he dumped the truck and fled on foot. Around 6:30 a.m. he was apprehended.

Redding, 34, was also arrested on two outstanding warrants, one stemming from a stolen vehicle in Richmond in March 2010, the other for an incident that occurred in North Vancouver in February 2010.

More funding for school playgrounds

Parent Advisory Councils (PACs) at Hamilton and General Currie elementary schools have received a total of $80,000 in reimbursements for playground equipment. Hamilton gets $50,000, while General Currie got $30,000. The funding is part of nearly $2.4 million to reimburse PACs throughout the province that recently purchased playground equipment for their kids with funds they raised.

This reimbursement recognizes PACs for their hard work and commitment to students. Its part of the $8 million over two years for new playgrounds, reimbursements, and playground upgrades, repairs and replacements that Premier Christy Clark announced in September.

Holiday safety tips from Richmond Fire-Rescue

It is the time of year when trees are decorated, candles are lit and people are getting into the festive spirit.

It is also the time to take extra care and keep loved ones and yourself safe from potential holiday hazards.

Most fires related to this festive season can be prevented. Here are some holiday safety and Christmas tree care tips:

- If you choose to have an artificial tree, ensure it is labelled as fire retardant.

- Be sure the lights that you place on your tree are Canadian Standards Association (CSA) labelled.

- Avoid overloading electrical circuits with too many lights and inspect electrical cords for cracking and discolouration.

- Always unplug your Christmas tree and other indoor decorating lights before leaving your home and before you go to sleep.

- If you choose a real tree, be sure that the bottom of the tree has a fresh cut and is put in a stand that will hold four litres of water.

- Ensure the tree is stable in the stand and is clear of fireplaces, heat ducts and other heat sources.

- Refill the water daily to keep the tree hydrated.

- Always keep candles well away from trees and decorations, and never leave a burning candle unattended.

- Safely dispose of cut trees as soon as possible after Christmas. Dried-out trees are highly flammable and should not be left in a house, garage or placed near the exterior of your home.