FRIDAY APRIL 6, 2012
HEATING UP AT HOME The Abbotsford Heat boosted their playoff chances with a pair of huge wins over Rochester A17
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Panhandlers curbed, intersections off limits City bylaw on begging restricts where, when and how
SNOW WHITE A4 In its 30th season, Abbotsford Children’s Theatre stages performances next week
Vikki HOPES and Kevin MILLS Abbotsford News
Signs installed at three high-traffic locations around Abbotsford are reminding panhandlers they are not welcome. The “No Panhandling” signs have been erected by the city, following a request by the Abbotsford Police Department, at three traffic medians along Sumas Way – at South Fraser Way, Barrons Way and McConnell Road. Const. Ian MacDonald said a particularly aggressive panhandler was the impetus for the move. Police and the city received numerous complaints last year when the man stationed himself on the traffic island at Sumas Way and McConnell Road (near Costco). He held a sign requesting money, and charitable citizens often obliged. MacDonald said the problem was that he became a hazard, often causing drivers d to brake suddenly as they pulled up beside him or held up traffic behind them. There were also concerns that Continued on A5
SMUGGLER SENTENCED A4 Chilliwack man gets time served for role in cross-border pot scheme
DRUNKEN DOUSING A5 Three near-naked men ride shopping cart through car wash
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File photo
A panhandler takes coins from a charitable motorist on South Fraser Way at the Abbotsford Village Shopping Centre. The city recently installed no panhandling signs (inset photo) at this intersection and several others. TOLL FREE
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