I’m sitting in the Steveston Coffee Company having a latte this morning. Frank, the owner, is working hard making up the orders. Lattes, mistos, teas etc. But, he’s a dad too.  Working at being dad in the evenings and whenever he can. I’m here talking with him about supporting the Judo tournament we are hosting at the Richmond Olympic Oval.

Steveston is rich in history. Commercial fishing. Farming. Japanese Canadians. Scots. And many others.  Many stories shared and written. Archived. And, still being researched and storied to this day.

But, that time has passed. It’s being put away for safe keeping. Museumed for all to access.

Now, Steveston is home to many families and businesses living life out here at the mouth of the Fraser.

I’m curious about the details, like how Frank got to this place and time. But, I don’t want to interview him. These are things I’d rather learn in genuine, informal conversation.

Turns out that Frank is originally from Singapore and was in the military. He did some martial arts training there as part of some British foreign unit.

I tell Frank that the tournament at the Richmond Oval will not really help him because it is relatively far from Steveston.  He should support the fall tournament which will be held at the Steveston Community Centre. He would get more attention from that crowd.

I bump into Erica who has 2 sons that attended Steves Elementary while I was principal there.  She brings back so many memories of the 6 years I worked there.  She was always full of life.  I find out that she has earned her welding certification and is now in the process of finding work in the field. Given her positive spirit, I am sure that she will find a position somewhere soon.

It is important to love where you live. People like Frank and Erica who have invested in Steveston by setting up a home and business here ought to be supported.

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