“Actions speak louder than words”. By Mary Sanzovo
I’m not deeply political, but my brother-in-law is running for re-election as Mayor of Coquitlam, and last night I attended the last All-Candidates’ Meeting (ACM), in Maillardville, the community Richard grew up in.
Richard probably shouldn’t have been there, but he’s pretty determined. The day before, the campaign trail had taken a sharp turn; while walking on a sidewalk in central Coquitlam, Richard was hit by a car and injured, aggravating his longstanding back disability. He was admitted to Royal Columbian Hospital, and the next day, despite his injuries, his doctor agreed to let him attend last night’s ACM.
As the meeting was ending, Richard was in obvious pain and distress. He got up and made it to the corner of the room, where he practically collapsed to the floor in significant pain. Several people came over to offer Richard assistance. One of them – firefighter Randy Delmonico, himself a candidate for City Council -- quickly took professional action, assessing Richard’s condition and assisting as needed.
However, there was another first-responder in the room. Barrie Lynch who is running for Mayor against Richard, is a paramedic, a point he makes at every All-Candidates’ Meeting. He has worked side-by-side on Council with Richard for six years, and knows full well the extent of Richard’s back disability. Many people in the room were disgusted to watch Councillor Lynch (along with Councillor Lou Sekora) scoffing at the pain Richard was obviously in; this from a paramedic! Do we really want someone as uncaring as this as our Mayor?
Thanks to Firefighter Delmonico and to the many people who expressed concern and offered to help in any way. Richard was taken back to hospital and released this morning. Even after being hit by a car, he hasn’t slowed down, bouncing back to his positive, energetic self. I am so proud of who Richard is and that that he has stuck to the high road.
It would be really appreciated if those of you that are of voting age (18 or older) would get out to any of the polls and vote. If you cannot vote yet, make sure that your friends and parents make an effort to get to the polls. EVERY VOTE COUNTS!
Richard Stewart has provided the Respectful Leadership that Coquitlam needs by improving transit options (including the expanded U-Pass program), producing better amateur sport facilities, working for the creation of more affordable housing, succeeding in the development of Coquitlam's new Homeless Shelter, fighting for lower taxes, and continuing the great progress that has already been made on so many issues.
To read up on the great progress already made, and to read up on the issues facing our community, visit richardstewart.ca/
Advance Voting Opportunities:
November 18, 2011
Poirier Community Centre (630 Poirier Street)
9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.
Main Voting Date:
November 19th 2011
Check your newspaper for the most convenient voting location for you on Nov 19 (residents can vote at any voting location), or go to
But it might be easier just get out to one of the Advance Polls listed above.
All you need to vote is a couple pieces of ID (Driver's License, hydro or phone bill, etc.) that show who you are and where you live (one must have your signature). That's all. It'll take you about 10-15 minutes in total.
Richard Stewart had been hit by an inattentive driver while walking on a sidewalk on Saturday Nov 12. He was sent to Eagleridge hospital and he had received permission from the doctor at RCH to attend the All Candidates Meeting at the night. People respect him as a strong man。 his doughter said: " I respect my father so much for always taking the high road and never attacking his opponent with insults or lies but instead focusing on the issues our city has to face. He shows true leadership. i love you dad."
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