The Friends In Need Food Bank received $85,000 as a community gaming grant, which is an $18,000 increase from last year's $67,000 grant.

"I'm very glad that the food bank was able to get a lift in this year's grant because it helps

hundreds of people each month in such a practical way," said MLA Marc Dalton.

. More at www.mrtimes.com

Transit changes

TransLink will offer modified holiday service through the holidays.

On Christmas Eve, Monday, Dec. 24, all services will run normal weekday schedules. The West Coast Express afternoon departures from Waterfront will be at 1, 3, 4: 20, 5: 30 and 6: 20 p.m.

On Christmas Day, Tuesday, Dec. 25, the vast majority of bus routes will operate on a Sunday schedule.

West Coast Express will not run on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year's Day, but will resume regular service on Dec. 27 and 28, and Jan. 2.

. More at www.mrtimes.com

Operation Red Nose

With Rudy the Reindeer on New Year's Eve party guest lists, friends and family will know they have the option to get home safely in their own cars.

Operation Red Nose will provide 1-877-604-NOSE safe rides home on New Year's Eve (Monday, Dec. 31). Call 604515-NOSE (6673) to use the service.

. More at www.mrtimes.com

Trees to be chipped

Ridge Meadows Search & Rescue will be chipping trees by donation on Jan.

5, 6, 12, and 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Curbside pickup is available. Email name and address to scoutchipping@gmail. com for pickup or call 604-244-2850.

. More at www.mrtimes.com