March 20, 2024

matters . since 1969

Former West Van mayor Mike Smith calls on current mayor to resign

JANE SEYD jseyd@nsnews.com

A former mayor of West Vancouver is calling on the current mayor to resign following a recent law society suspension for professional misconduct.

Michael Smith, who was previously mayor of the municipality for seven years – and who until recently counted himself as a supporter of the current mayor – said publicly last week it’s time for Mark Sager to step down.

Smith helped get Sager elected and encouraged others to do the same in the lead up to the 2022 civic election. He also supported Sager when he narrowly lost to Mary-Ann Booth in 2018.

But in both public comments and a letter to the editor (see page 9), Smith said it’s time for Sager to step aside.

Sager’s actions in the handling of an elderly client’s estate – detailed in an agreement with the law society that has resulted in Sager’s suspension – have shaken Smith’s belief that his former political friend should continue to sit in the mayor’s chair.

“I think he should resign,” said Smith

“You want to believe in your public elected officials,” said Smith. “Somebody that we trust to represent us, we find out they’re not honourable people. It’s not good.”

Smith said he found Sager’s actions detailed in the law society decision “not acceptable,” adding that “it’s not the

Four new pickleball courts coming to Ambleside Park this year

LIFESTYLE13 HockeyHeroes

High school program helps keep at-risk students in the game

SPORTS17 Podiumplacings

B.C. GAMES WINNER

TALYA RABINER

North Shore athletes shine at Lhtako Quesnel B.C. Winter Games INTERACT

first time it’s

happened.”

In 2020, Sager was fined $20,000 and ordered to pay a further $20,000 in legal fees by the law society after being found guilty of professional misconduct that involved

directing a will be prepared for his godmother that named Sager as one of the beneficiaries The new will had the effect of cutting out one of the woman’s relatives while including

Former West Vancouver mayor Michael Smith says current Mayor Mark Sager should resign after receiving a suspension from the B.C. Law Society for professional misconduct. Smith previously endorsed Sager in two elections PAUL MCGRATH / NSN

West Van to build four new pickleball courts at Ambleside

JANE SEYD jseyd@nsnews com

The District of West Vancouver will spend $350,000 to build four new outdoor pickleball courts in Ambleside Park this summer.

Mayor Mark Sager announced the decision to go ahead with the outdoor pickleball courts during the regular council meeting March 11, garnering applause from a contingent of pickleball players who showed up for the news.

“I think there’s some people who are going to play at this facility,” said Sager “We expect that these facilities will be constructed as fast as we can because we know there are people anxious to play on them.”

The four new pickleball courts will be built on Ambleside’s gravel “H field,” currently being used as a parking lot south of the Spirit Trail near the par 3 golf course

Ed Pielak, spokesperson for West Vancouver pickleball players, said players are thrilled about the new courts, which are badly needed.

“There’s such a demand,” he said, especially with seniors

According to the district, an “acoustic curtain” – essentially a padded wall – will be installed on the east and south sides of the courts to reduce sound transmission to a nearby daycare and protect the court from dust. The north and west sides will not have curtains installed unless deemed necessary later, according to the municipality. The nearest homes in Ambleside are almost 280 metres away, according to the municipality

- beyond the 75 metre zone in which noise mitigation is usually needed.

The decision to build the courts comes following a recommendation this fall from West Vancouver’s Pickleball Advisory Round Table

The funding for the pickleball courts comes from $800,000 previously approved for Tennis BC’s indoor tennis/pickleball facility, which the district still aims to build at Hugo Ray Park.

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in North America, particularly among seniors. There has been significant demand

for court time in West Vancouver, where an older population tends to mirror the demographic of pickleball players.

But as in other communities where pickleball has taken off, the sport has not been without detractors and controversies.

Tensions have erupted between tennis players and pickleballers when tennis courts have been converted into pickleball courts.

The sport has also drawn complaints in residential neighbourhoods because of the loud “pop” sound made every time a ball is struck.

Five years ago, in 2019, the first three

outdoor pickleball courts opened in West Van at 29th Street and Marine Drive on a former tennis court – where they quickly filled up with enthusiastic players. Just as quickly, however, pickleballers drew noise complaints from neighbours.

That prompted the council of the day to reverse course and shut down those pickleball courts, converting them back to tennis courts in 2022.

In their place, the municipality set up four temporary pickleball courts on the northern sports court at Normanby Park.

Those courts, in the upper reaches of the district’s upper lands, are further away from nearby homes, and so haven’t generated the same kind of complaints, according to district staff.

There are also four West Vancouver parks where tennis and pickleball players share courts: at Benbow, Chairlift, Cypress Park School and Whytecliff parks.

Pielak said local players are happy to have those courts, but welcome a more dedicated space to play their sport.

A year ago, district council and Tennis BC announced they had also signed a memorandum of understanding that would see the sporting organization build and run an inflated dome containing six tennis courts along with new covered pickleball courts in the southeast corner of Hugo Ray Park, which would be open to the public 85 per cent of the time.

Details of how and when that project will get off the ground are still under discussion, according to the district.

Employee seriously injured in North Van A&W drive-thru crash

JANE SEYD

jseyd@nsnews com

One person was taken to hospital with serious injuries and both police and WorkSafeBC are investigating after a driver crashed his SUV into the side of an A&W Restaurant in North Vancouver Saturday afternoon.

A driver from North Vancouver was turning into the drive-thru of the A&W Restaurant at 920 Marine Drive Saturday afternoon when he reportedly drove forward into the side wall of the building.

Police did not release information about what happened as a result of the impact,

but the wall where the vehicle crashed into the restaurant showed visible damage in the aftermath of the crash.

One person – an employee of A&W, who was inside the building at the time of the crash – was taken to hospital by ambulance with serious injuries, according to police. That person’s condition was not available at press time.

Const. Mansoor Sahak, spokesman for the North Vancouver RCMP, said Saturday it’s still too early to know what caused the crash.

“We’re still trying to determine what happened,” he said.

Sahak said so far there’s nothing to indicate the crash was a result of impaired driving or a medical condition. Police have seized the vehicle for a mechanical inspection.

The RCMP’s Integrated Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Service unit is assisting with the investigation.

The restaurant was closed this week and a WorkSafeBC notice on the door indicated the owner must ensure repairs to the building are inspected by a qualified person to identify any hazards. A spokesperson for WorkSafe said an inspection report may be completed later this week.

RCMP members investigate after a driver crashed his SUV into the wall of the A&W Restaurant on North Vancouver’s Marine Drive Saturday afternoon. PAT BELL

West Vancouver pickleball players Ed Pielak, Diane Cardwell, Reg Allen, Ellen Forshaw and Kay Keshavjee are happy with the announcement of new pickleball courts coming to Ambleside Park this year. PAUL MCGRATH / NSN

Developer seeks higherdensityfor last Moodyville properties

BRENT RICHTER brichter@nsnews.com

Adecade after City of North Vancouver councilredesigned almost all ofthe Moodyville neighbourhood fortownhomesand mid-rise apartments, the owner of the last undevelopedlots is seekingmoreheight and density.

Council voted unanimously, if reluctantly,March 11 to begin anew master planning process for the properties on the 500 and 600 blocks of East First Street, the 600 blockofEastSecond Street andthe foot of St.Davids Avenue –collectively knownasthe Trail Lands.

Wall Financial Corporation purchased the propertiesfromthe original owner SeacliffProperties in 2017. Under the currentzoning, thedeveloper would be allowed to build up to 50 feet but they have askedthe citytoconsider changing theofficial community plan for the lands – arequest that dredges up alot of local planning history.

In 2012, City of North Vancouver council approved the controversial Low Level Roadproject, which led to acascade of terminal expansions on the industrial waterfront, including anew bank of Richardson International grain silos

One of the lastundeveloped lotsin Moodyville acts as aconstruction staging site.The owner,developer Wall Financial, isasking the CityofNorth Vancouver to consider allowing moreheight and density on the site PAUL

blocking Moodyville’sviews of Burrard Inlet and drastically changing the look and feel of the neighbourhood of roughly 250 homes.

Through the city’snew official community plan process in 2014, the city sought to redraw the neighbourhood with higher density,but the OCP failed to get enoughvotes and pass at council, making Moodyville one of the issues of

the 2014 municipal election. Following the election, a majorityofcouncil, including then-Coun. Linda Buchanan, revived the OCP,increased allowable density in the neighbourhood and adopted the plan.

In 2016, the rezonings werefinalized, clearing theway for the neighbourhood’s population to quadruple in the decade ahead to roughly 4,000 people, and setting the form and character we see through Moodyville today

So whenWallFinancial came asking formore, Buchanan –now the mayor–acknowledged the baggage that comes with the request.

“I want to be really clear that this rezoning and pre-zoned neighbourhood was fraught with tension in our community,” she said. “The community was quite engaged with whatthis wasgoing to look like.”

Since eight yearshad passed from the time Wall purchased the land,Buchanan said she was open to some discussions about changes but shewas adamant that “we’renot going crazy on height. We’re not having tower forms.”

Other members of council expressed a similar sentiment that they hadnodesire to departwidely from the existingplan

“The city created Moodyville, andI think it has come together really,really nicely and it looks awesome when you drive down Third Street,” saidCoun.Holly Back. “I also hear very, veryoftenpositive feedback on the area. I’ve never heard anything negative.”

Coun. Don Bellalsonotedthat the residents who live theretoday moved into anew neighbourhood that had been designed from scratch, not one poisedfor change.

“Therewas an expectation of what that character would look like and the degree to which this application might change that character is something thatIthink needscareful consideration,” he said.

Council took abrief recess to allow stafftoconsult with the city’slawyer on wording foramotionthat wouldcarry council’sintentwithout prejudicing the process. Ultimately,they agreed to lead the new master planning process “generally in keeping with the form and character of the Moodyville neighborhood planand design guidelines.”

“I thinkthat’sveryimportant given, probably,the scars thatmanyofuswear still from this previous OCPamendment,” Buchanan said.

City of North Van seeks voter approval to borrow $55.6M

BRENT RICHTER brichter@nsnews.com

The City of North Vancouver is set to borrow $55.7 million to rebuild North Shore Neighbourhood House and complete works on two major parks projects – but first they must get the consent of the voters.

Council voted March 11 to kick-off an “alternate approval process” – a sort-of reverse referendum in which 10 per cent of a jurisdiction’s eligible voters must file a form registering their opposition with the municipality in order to prevent council from passing a loan bylaw

According to city staff, there are 42,325 voters in the city, and the threshold for the AAP will be 4,233.

Forms to register opposition are available at city hall or on the city’s website. The deadline to register dissent for the AAP is 5 p.m. on April 22.

Council announced plans in January to fast-track the rebuilding of the aging North Shore Neighbourhood House and partner with non-profit developer Catalyst Community Housing to build up to 180

affordable housing units on top.

If the AAP passes, council will be able to borrow another $4.3 million for the total revamp of Kings Mill Walk Park to include a plaza, an all-ages play area, an off-leash dog park, open green space and shoreline habitat restoration.

Another $1.8 million will go to a new “Oasis of Calm” urban park on the 1600 block of Eastern Avenue, one of the city’s densest areas with the least access to park space.

In kicking off the AAP, council members made few formal comments, although Coun. Tony Valente noted that borrowing funds was the logical way to get the projects off the ground.

“I think this [North Shore Neighbourhood House] project has been very public and there’s been really lots of opportunities for the public to write back on an ongoing basis,” he said. “I think we’ve seen really general support for the additional housing this project is going to provide both on the North Shore and in the city. It’s no mystery that we have a housing challenge before us.”

‘NO

DistrictofNorth Vancouver victim of ‘attempted’ransomware attack

NICK LABA nlaba@nsnews.com

The District of North Vancouver says there’s no evidenceofresidents’ personal data loss,afterthe municipality’snetworkswerehit with an attempted ransomware attack last week.

Early March 11, the district and its partner agencies weretargets of theattack, DNV spokesperson Ryan Schaap told the North ShoreNewsby email.Other organizations affected wereNorth Vancouver Recreation and Culture, North Vancouver District Public Libraries, MONOVAand North Shore Emergency Management

The attack was detected quickly and stopped, he said.

“Our network, some systems and some business applications were affected on Monday.Fortunately, therewas little impact to ourpublic services,” Schaap added.

During aransomwareattack, the victimunintentionally acquires malicious software–often via email –that

aims to lockor encrypt data until a ransom payment is made.

Just after noon on Monday,the districtposted on social media that “due to technical issues withour IT systems” aplanned council workshop later that evening would be postponed to March 18.Another update on Tuesdaysaid therewould be abrief outagethat evening “to address some technical issues.”

No otherpublic updates were issued on theoutage.Following the apparent attack, parts of the district’s website wereinaccessible at times.

Schaap said network systems and some business applications were restored quickly by the district’sIT team. “Asaresult,therewereminimal disruptions for staffand for our residents,” he said. “Systemsbegan coming back online Monday morning and by mid-day Tuesday the majority of our systems were restored.”

No ransom waspaid to the attackers, Schaap added. An investigation into theattack by cybersecurity

consultants is ongoing, he said.

“At this point thereisnoevidence of employee or resident personal data loss,” Schaap said.

“Like many organizations, we have been working over the last few years to strengthen our resilience to cybersecurityattacks,”hesaid. “Thanks to the ongoing efforts by district staff, this situation wasdealt with quickly,which limited the impacts on the organization and on our municipality as awhole.”

Roger Gale,program head of industrial network cybersecurityatBCIT, said it appears that the district handled the situation well, without having specific details about whatoccurred.

“I suspect that thereisn’t much moretoitthan whatthey’ve said,”Gale explained.

“But because aprogram was running on their system that wasn’t supposed to be run, there’salways a possibility that it created abackdoor somewhere. I’m certain that they’re looking for anything that wouldbe a sign of that right now,” he said.

Warming warning

This week marked the official start of spring, traditionally a time when we look forward to longer, warmer days ahead

But this year it feels like we mostly skipped over winter. As anyone who bought a season ski pass can attest, winter was unseasonably warm.

Snowpack across the province –including in the mountains above Metro Vancouver – is sitting at its second lowest level ever recorded. That points to less water being available to slow drying of the forests and provide for both drinking water and fisheries in summer

The best meteorological guesses are that this spring and summer will bring warmer-than-usual temperatures across British Columbia.

That’s on top of a hot summer last year And patterns of prolonged drought

tend to reinforce themselves.

In light of this, we have to be prepared. The province is stepping up its own wildfire monitoring early, which is welcome news. In spring, especially, most wildfires are started by people, so it’s crucial that anyone heading into the backcountry be careful. Fire bans have already started in some parts of the province and will likely soon ramp up here on the North Shore as well.

When it comes to managing our water supply, we’d argue that greater restrictions earlier in the season make sense in our changing climate. Watering of lawns with treated drinking water is not something we should expect to see continue into the future. Water meters would also seem to be a no brainer.

Our world is getting warmer We need to pay attention and act accordingly

MATT BLAIR publisher@nsnews.com

Every Wednesday marks a special occasion here at the North Shore News – it’s when our dedicated carriers embark on their mission to deliver copies of our publication to every neighbourhood across the North Shore.

At the heart of our work lies the commitment to share the stories that define North and West Vancouver From the latest decisions at city hall to community-wide initiatives aiding those in need, we strive to keep you informed. Whether it’s updates on local festivals, theatre productions, school happenings, or sports events, the News serves as your window into the pulse of our community, helping you stay connected and engaged.

Our approach is anchored in the professionalism of our trained journalists They attend council meetings, public hearings, school board sessions, and myriad events to bring you the most accurate and insightful coverage. Holding public officials and institutions accountable is not just a duty but a core principle we uphold With skilled photographers capturing pivotal moments, we document not only individual stories but also the collective milestones shaping our city’s history.

In an era where many Canadian communities lack a local newspaper and the vital role journalists play, we recognize ourselves as fortunate to boast an award-winning team. As publisher, it’s my responsibility to ensure the continuity of their invaluable service to our community.

Over the past several years, we’ve

introduced nearly 200 neighbourhood-specific newspaper boxes, complementing our traditional door-to-door delivery system. While the majority of homes still receive doorstep deliveries, some areas – particularly those challenging for carriers to reach – now exclusively benefit from these newspaper boxes. This week we have expanded this program, making the switch to newspaper box delivery in some parts of the Grousewoods, Canyon Heights, Forest Hills, Upper Delbrook and Capilano Highlands neighbourhoods of North Vancouver

The boxes offer residents a convenient way to access their newspaper while also enabling us to reduce our environmental footprint by eliminating thousands of single-use plastic bags.

Furthermore, the shift to newspaper box delivery has addressed a historical backlog

of stop-delivery requests, some lingering since the 1990s. By providing residents with easier access to our publication, we’ve reignited interest among both new and past readers.

Despite initial skepticism with newspaper box delivery, feedback from readers in recent years has been overwhelmingly positive, leading to increased circulation in many neighbourhoods. For example, our newspaper boxes at Park Royal distribute more than 300 newspapers weekly, necessitating refills to meet demand.

In our ongoing efforts to ensure the sustainability of the North Shore News and preserve local print news for years to come, we’ll continue transitioning more neighbourhoods to newspaper box delivery. Priority will be given to areas historically challenged

114-400 BROOKSBANK AVE., NORTH VANCOUVER, B.C. V7J 2C2

MATT BLAIR, PUBLISHER

MAILBOX

MARK SAGER HAS LOST CREDIBILITY TO LEAD WEST VANCOUVER

Dear Editor:

RE: Mayor Suspended From Practising Law For Two Years, March 6 news story

When the Law Society of B.C. recently suspended West Vancouver Mayor Mark Sager’s license to practise law, the ethical standing of his municipal leadership became a serious community issue. This was the Law Society’s second disciplinary action against Sager, the first was in 2018.

To assure my full understanding of the law society’s licence suspension, I have read the entire document filed online. It is both detailed and disturbing. In the current case, the law society found Mr Sager guilty of professional misconduct, failure to keep complete records, and improperly withdrawing more than $230,000 from an elderly client’s account as legal fees, travel and hotel bills, and other private, personal expenses. No approval was obtained prior to incurring those expenses and some invoices were even paid twice by the estate.

Inaction by our community can be seen as condoning these actions. Inaction is not acceptable. West Van’s annual operating budget is more than $150 million The mayor is the CEO of our municipality and is responsible for these funds. Honesty and integrity must be undoubtable. Without that trust and confidence, how can municipal budgeting and government proceed?

The mayor also represents West Vancouver on the Metro Vancouver board and on the TransLink Mayors’ Council. Both spend billions of public dollars, and currently both have many serious issues to resolve. We must have strong, credible leadership in representing the interests of our community to these organizations Mayor Sager would have recognized

this when he requested the law society postpone releasing information about their investigations into his legal conduct until after the 2022 election. Public knowledge would have damaged his ability to represent us and cause harm to the municipality

The role of mayor is to provide leadership for the entire community Mark Sager does not have the credibility to do this. He should resign

Michael Smith

West Vancouver

Editor’s note: Michael Smith served as mayor of West Vancouver from 2011 to 2018.

SEMESTER CHANGE NEEDLESSLY SECRETIVE

Dear Editor:

RE: Students, parents register displeasure at schedule switch, March 13 news story

I was not surprised to read about the proposed timetable change in our school district, as timetable-tweaking has been a frequent occurrence over the past 30 years or so. I was surprised, however, to learn about it first in the North Shore News.

As a parent with two children affected by the change, I would have thought that some degree of information-sharing, if not actual consultation, would have been offered by the school district earlier in the process.

While I am not a passionate proponent of either a linear or semester timetable, I do think it is wise, or at least polite, to keep parents and students informed when change is contemplated. Assuming that there are compelling reasons for a change, it should not be difficult to communicate those reasons, and so avoid the kind of negative reaction reported in the article. Anything less appears secretive, arrogant, or simply inept.

Craig Johnston

North Vancouver

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by carrier shortages, taking geographical factors into account.

We understand, however, that some residents will still prefer doorstep delivery. To accommodate this preference, we’ve partnered with a local delivery service to offer doorstep delivery in neighbourhoods where it’s currently unavailable.

For just $18 per month, you can subscribe to have an adult carrier hand-deliver a copy of the North Shore News to your doorstep or mailbox every Wednesday, ensuring it’s in pristine condition for your

Jonathan Wilkinson

Acollaborativeapproachtothe housing crisis

Earlier this month, Iwas very pleasedtoannouncethatthe City of NorthVancouver hasbeenawarded morethan$18 millioninfederal funds that will incent theconstructionof 3100 additional homes over thenext 10 years.

Theeffortand diligencethe City put into itsapplication wascommendable

TheCityofNorth Vancouver successfully joined 60 otherambitious municipalitiesacrossthe countrywhose residentsare benefitting from the $4 billionfederal HousingAccelerator Fund.These agreements willfasttrack construction of an estimated600,000 newhomes across Canada over the next decade.

TheHousing AcceleratorFund(HAF) is aCanadiangovernmentprogram to encouragelocal initiativesthatboost housingsupply, making homesmore affordable,diverseand climateresistant This significantfunding opportunityisa call to action -providing consequential financial supporttothose communities willing to do more than tinkeron the edgesofmunicipal housingpolicyto implementtransformationalchanges that create apathway to solvingthe housingcrisisintheir community Highimpact

It will improve the City’sland acquisition and disposition practices to build more affordable homes on city-owned land and prioritize affordable housing projects.

The action plan also includes streamlining development approvals, reforming the City of North Vancouver’s zoning bylaws to end exclusionary zoning, reducing minimum parking requirements for development projects, and removing barriers to building prefabricated and modular housing.

Demonstrating leadership Mayors andcouncilsfromacross Canada aredemonstrating leadership by implementing creative ideasto access federalfunding that canserve as examples forotherstofollow.

In acommunity like ours where housingaffordability is apressing concern, fundinglikethatprovided throughthe HousingAccelerator Fund createsanavenuetobridgethe gap betweenrisinghomepricesand the aspirationsofresidents,while creating good jobs in home construction

enjoyment. To arrange this service, please call 604-986-1337.

And for those hungry for even more North Shore News content, we invite you to join the 14,000+ readers who already subscribe to our free daily email newsletter at nsnews.com/account/mailinglist

We remain committed to delivering your local news in the manner that best serves you, as we work towards a sustainable future for Canada’s premier community newspaper – the North Shore News.

Matt Blair is the publisher of the North Shore News.

Theprocess wasacompetitive one. TheCity’sapplication wasselected basedonits concrete implementation timelines,highimpact anddetailed descriptions of each initiative’s milestonesand expected outcomes. Asa part of theagreement to unlock thisfunding,the City of North Vancouverhas committed to significant actionsthatwillspeed up home construction

Under the plan, the City will allow more multiplex homes to be built (including up to four,six, and eight units), and allow for higher residential housing density near the urban core and close to transit.

Ensuring that everyone hasa safe, affordable home is apriorityfor your federalgovernmentand forme personally.Thisisthe foundation for building strong,successfulcommunities. Thefederal government hasbeen making housingapriority, as have theProvinceofBCand theCityof NorthVancouver.Weall sharethe goal of ensuring that everyone hasan affordable placetocallhome.

We will work throughthishousing crisis only if alllevelsofgovernment, industry,labourand Indigenous leadershipare workingtogether to incentivizeand implementthe construction of newhomes so that we canmakehousing more attainable forall Canadians. Andinthatregard, therecentannouncementmadewith theCityofNorth Vancouverkeeps us moving in theright direction. Contact

CoastMountain FilmFestival

Join us in celebrating local filmmakers as they showcase their work to hometown audiences

The inauguralCoast MountainFilm Festival will play host to over 20 films, allofwhich have a NorthShoreconnection.

DRAMATIC MOMENTS (FIVE SHORTS)

MARCH 30 •7:30PM

Shot against thebackdrop ofthe NorthShore, these five short films delve intothe intricate dynamics among parents, siblings, friends and lovers. Each short offers aunique exploration of human connection.

TICKETS.CENTENNIALTHEATRE.COM

604.984.4484

ENVIRONMENTAL NIGHT (FOUR FILMS)

MARCH 29 •7:30PM

Vancouver’s North ShoreTourism Association andthe Pacific SalmonFoundation present four films that explorethe beauty of ournatural environment,its resilience and thechanges we must make to protect it. Featurefilm: OurFood Table featuring Dr.David Suzuki.

WWW.KAYMEEK.COM

604.981.1170

NORTH SHORE PROFILES (SIX FILMS)

MARCH 31 •7:30PM

The NorthShore is aspecial place. While we’re world renowned for ourmountainsand oceans, itisreally thepeople that make this place Presented by British Pacific Properties, enjoy an evening of introductions to some of our most interesting residents.

WWW.KAYMEEK.COM

604.981.1170

DARK COMEDIES (SIX SHORTS)

MARCH 30 •3:30PM

Mitsubishi Motors North Shore presents thedark humour of six NorthShore-based filmmakers as they explorerelationships, consequenceoftheir actions and even the afterlife. Several filmmakers willbeonhand to introduce their work.

TICKETS.CENTENNIALTHEATRE.COM

604.984.4484

KROW’S TRANSFORMATION

APRIL 18 •7:30PM

Transitioning from international female model to male model and conquering therunways of Paris along theway,followKrow’sremarkable journey to become his true authentic self. This screening willincludeavery special Q&A withthe filmmaker.

WWW.KAYMEEK.COM

604.981.1170

Presented by:

Presented by:

Presented by:

Presented by:

MICHAEL THOMA,PHD CAPILANO UNIVERSITY CHAIR, SCHOOL OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS

Hockey Heroes scores 20 yearsofsupport forat-risk youth

NICK LABA nlaba@nsnews.com

For some kids, their hockey hero is Sydney Crosby.For others,it’sConnor Bedard.

But for agroup of North Vancouver youth, their beacon of hope on the ice isn’t aperson at all. It’saprogram.

Over the past 20 years, Hollyburn Hockey Heroeshas been giving at-risk youth ashot at playing the great Canadian game in asupportive environmentwherethe usual high-cost barriers have been removed.

After signingupfor the program, teensaged 14 to 19 play hockey once aweek through the school year,while committing to attendingclass. Onthe ice, theyouth players arejoined by mentors including school teachers,administrative staff, police, firefighters and social workers.

One of the biggest benefits of theinitiative is that the kids aregiven gear that they get to keep after graduation, allowing them to continue playing in adult leagues.

At an exhibition match on March 6atNorth Vancouver’s Canlan Sports arena, theHockey Heroes faced offagainst players from VanMar Construction, which had just announced amulti-year sponsorship of the program.

Suited up in full gear on

the Hockey Heroes team was program founder Steve Kirkby, manager ofyouthservices at Hollyburn Community Services Society,which runs the initiative.

Afterworking with young offendersasacorrections officer in Ontario for 15 years, Kirkby said the program was born out of adesiretoengage youth who might otherwise lack supportstructures. To signup, prior knowledge of hockey isn’t

expected, but attendance at school is, he added.

“What the teachers have shared is that the numbers have gone up significantly,because the kids want to come here, they have an attachment with the program,”hesaid. “They get their own jersey,and they feel partofa community.And that’simportant forall ages.”

Most of the kids come from Mountainside Secondary, an

alternative highschool in North Van’sUpper Lonsdale neighbourhood. Others come from Carson Graham Secondary

‘I’ve been so lucky to be introduced to hockey’

Kirkby emphasizes the importance of having awelcoming community.

“They’llsupportthat youth who maybe doesn’t havea lotof experience, and celebrate any

Nomatterhowcolditisoutside…youcancountonaqualitybuilt,super efficientnaturalgasYorkFurnaceandHeatPumptokeepyouwarmand toastyinside.Affordable,quiet,andreliable-youcancountonYorkto provideconsistentcomfortthroughoutyourhome.

successthat theyhave. Andinevitably,beforelong,they’rethe one thatisflying around out here looking amazing,” he said.

Even morethan the hockey skills, Kirkby said what’smost rewarding is when he hearsback from program graduates who havegone on to finish university or startacareer

“Hockey is just an instrument for teaching them other things in life thatgowell beyond playing on the ice,” he said.

As players chased, passed and shot the puckatCanlan, their teammates cheered and drummedhockey sticks against the boardsinsupport.

Mountainside Grade 12 student J.C.said his first chance to play hockey was whenhesigned up withthe Heroes program two years ago.

“I’ve been so lucky to be introducedto hockey,”hesaid. “I watched it when Iwas growing up but neverhad achance to play.Sothisisprobably the best experience withhockey I’ve ever had.”

J.C., who plans on going to BCIToranother local university nextyear,saidhe’ll staywiththe teamfor as long as Kirkbylets him.

“He’sa good coach,” J.C.said. “And Ijust think he’s the best fit for thiswhole program.”

Hockey Heroesfounder and Hollyburn youthservicesmanager SteveKirkby(left)getsready to hit theice with Grade 12 Mountainside SecondarystudentsBen and J.C. NICK LABA /NSN

CANOPY

MAR. 6- 21

SILK PURSE ARTSCENTRE

Dramatic& evocativeinterpretations of forest scenes, fromvibrant realistic painter Danyne Johnston, graphicpaper artist ChristinaPeressini and gestural semi-abstract painter Catherine Trembath. For more info:westvanartscouncil.ca

COAST MOUNTAINFILMFESTIVAL

MAR. 29 -APR. 18

KAY MEEK THEATRE& CENTENNIAL THEATRE

The inaugural CoastMountainFilmFestival will playhosttoover 20 films whichhavea North Shoreconnection. While many of thesefilmshave been screened at prestigiousfestivalsaroundthe world, this festival offers our filmmakersa chance to celebratetheirworkwiththe community in whichitwas made

Formoreinfo: coastmountainfilmfest.com

STANDOUTPERFORMANCES

NorthShoreSportAwardsrecognize community’stop athletic achievers

NICK LABA nlaba@nsnews.com

From hockey wunderkinds to sensational swimmers, North and West Vancouver boast some of the finest athletes on the planet.

Ashowing of those sporty specimens wason display at the North Shore SportAwardsonTuesday evening at West Vancouver Community Centre.

Winning in the Senior Female Athlete category wasmarathon runner Natasha Wodak. The twotimeOlympianhad several standout performances at international races last year Also nominated wasUBC rugby superstar Savannah Bauder,and Alannah Yip, who made historyatthe Pan Am Games last year as the first-ever Canadian to scoreamedal in sportclimbing at amajor gamesevent. In the Senior MaleAthlete group, skier Cameron Alexander got top honoursafter

several recent podiums at World Cup downhill races as well as abronzemedal at the2023 world championships. TopCFL prospect Theo Benedet was also nominated, alongsidewakeboarder Hunter Smith, who earned silver at the Pan Am Games last summer.

Sport climber Alannah Yip, marathonrunner Natasha Wodakand rugby player Savannah Bauder were recognized inthe SeniorFemale Athletecategoryatthe North Shore Sport Awards onTuesday,March 12.Wodak received top honours NORTH VANCOUVER RECREATION &CULTURE

Hall of Fame inducteeshonoured

Continued from A14

The Youth Female athlete recognized was Chloe Primerano, the world’sbest juniorwoman hockey player currently on skates. She was named MVP at the IIHF U18 World Women’sChampionship in January. Other nominees weredual sportstar Eva Ruse –who has been adominantforce in both volleyballand basketball, leading Mulgrave to itsfirst AA b-ball title in 2023–and Marlena Tresnjo, the No. 1-ranked U18 female high jumper in the country.

Youth Male athleteofthe yearisConnor Bedard. The 18-year-old hockey phenom continues to beatexpectations in his inaugural season in the NHL. If Bedardwasn’t the No. 1draft pick last year,the award could have gone to fellow North Vanhockey starMacklin Celebrini, 17, whohas been sittingatop the NHL2024 DraftProspect Rankings. Track triumph Michael Scherk was nominated as well, after becoming the U20 national champion in men’s 110-metre hurdlesatthe 2023 Bell Canadian Track and Field ChampionshipsinSeptember

The top Team of the year awardwentto theSentinel Senior Girls Volleyball squad, which won the AAA provincial banner as the tournament’sNo. 1seed. Provincial 2A provincial girls basketball champs Mulgrave, andthe provincial champions from the

North ShoreBaseball Association 18U AAA Team, were alsonominated.

Darren Rath wonthe Coach award, with numerous contributions and achievements coaching soccer for morethan twodecades onthe North Shore. Other nominees were Sentinel senior girls volleyball coaches Karen Kirkwood and DaveGibson, as well as Melanie Reid and Raymond Yip, who led their Seycovesenior girls fieldhockey team to its first-ever title at theBCSchool Sports AA championships.

Track andfield coach Errol Aguilera, Argyle gymnastics coach Cath Dimmock and30-year West Vancouver Cougarssoccer coach Rob Inman wererecognized in the CommunitySportVolunteer category.

Grade 9gymnast Taylor Dyck wonthe Comeback awardfor her incredible journey from breakingboth her arms during training in January 2022 to becoming B.C.’slevel 4 beam champion in March 2023.

Several sporting legends were also inducted intothe North ShoreSports Hall of Fame.Those were tennisplayer Grant Connell, divingathlete Blythe Hartley,football playerJerome Pathon, basketball coach Kathy(Williams) Shields and the 1938 North Shore United Soccer team.

Visitnsnews.com for afull list of all the nominees and winners.

UNIFIED AWARD

JamesBeck

Bachelor of Business Administration,2010

JamesBeck, aproud member of theSquamish Nation, servesasthe Associate Dean of AcademicsatNicola ValleyInstituteofTechnology (NVIT), embodying Indigenousleadership and academic excellence. With adeep commitment to Indigenousknowledge and culture, Jamesadvocates forlearner-centered education that honours tradition while advancing communityrelevance

CELEBRATING SUCCESS 2024 Alumni Awards of Excellence

Congratulations to therecipients of Capilano University’s AlumniAwardsofExcellence, whichrecognizeextraordinary alumniwho exemplifyour brand essence, inspireothersand positivelyinfluencecommunities.

CREATIVEAWARD

BarbaraGregusova

Costuming forStage and Screen Diploma, 2009

BarbaraGregusova is an award-winning costume designer with over100 creditsacross various mediums including feature films,TVseries and music videos. Knownfor her talent andcreativity, Barbara has received numerous nominations and wins forher designs spanning genres from contemporary to sci-fi.

THANK YOUTOOUR GENEROUS SPONSORS

Presenting AwardSponsors:

ENDURING AWARD

Tsnomot Brad Baker Artsand Sciences,1991

Brad Baker, aproud member of the Squamish Nation,isan educatorwithprovince-wide impact. He currently serves as theAssociate Superintendent of IndigenousEducation for theMinistry of Education and ChildCare. With 26 yearsin the NorthVancouverSchool District, Brad has played pivotalroles inshaping the educational landscape.

CONFIDENT AWARD

Jordan Kallman

Bachelor of Tourism Management, 2007

Jordan Kallman, co-founder of TheSocial Concierge, spearheads effortstoenhance Vancouver’scultureand spirit throughunique events and communitygatherings. Jordan’s initiativeshave united people from diverse backgrounds and raised funding forlocal charities.

LUMINOUS AWARD

Esther Thane

Bachelor of Music Therapy, 1996

Esther Thane is adedicated therapist and proudowner of ET Music Therapy Inc.,arenowned music therapypractice that has been enriching thelives of individuals since1996. With a strong passion foraddressing diverse developmental needs throughpersonalizedmusic therapy, Esther has made a profound impact on countless students and families.

Silver Sponsor:AffinityPartner: PremiumPerks Partner:

Nominations fornextyear’sawardsare nowopen. Read more at CAPILANOU.CA/ALUMNI-AWARDS

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North Shoreathletesscore big at B.C. Winter Games

ANDYPREST

aprest@nsnews.com

The slopes weremostly empty butthe podium was still packed with North Shoreathletes at the Lhtako Quesnel BCWinter Games last month.

Alack of snow forced thecancellation of several ski competitions, but the showwent on in many otherevents, with athletes from North Vancouver and West Vancouver scoring well.

Hereare the North Shoreconnections whohit the podium representing Zone5, Vancouver-Coastal, according to results posted on the BC Games website

Gold

•Warner Neill, artistic gymnastics,L3 men’sfloor

•Warner Neill, artistic gymnastics,L3 male team

•Yegor Shevchenko,judo,boys 60 kilogram

•Talya Rabiner,karate,girls U14individual kata advanced

•Talya Rabiner,karate, girlsU14 individual kumite advanced160 centimetre

•Ivana Mei, badminton, girls doubles

Silver

•Brooke Gillin, figureskating, pre-novice ladies

•Warner Neill, artistic gymnastics,L3 men’svault

•MatthewSprowson, archery,boystwoday aggregate barebow

•Matthew Sprowson, archery,boys matchplaybarebow

•Yegor Shevchenko, judo, mixed team

•Nika Ghaderi, badminton, mixed doubles

•Ivana Mei, badminton, mixed skills events

Bronze

•Coco Nohara, karate, girls U14 individualkataadvanced

•CocoNohara, karate, girls U14 individual kumiteadvanced 160 centimetre

•EmelieKvick, cross-countryskiing, 2009 girls

•Sienna Allen, ringette

•Nika Ghaderi and Ivana Mei, badminton, Tier 1teamevent

While

ALTERNATIVEAPPROVAL PROCESS OPPORTUNITYFOR

NorthShore Neighbourhood House andCityParks

NOTICE is hereby giveninaccordancewithsections86and 94 of the Community Charter that theCouncil of TheCorporation of theCityofNorth Vancouverintends to consider adoptionof“NorthShore NeighbourhoodHouse andCityParks Loan Authorization Bylaw, 2024,No. 9006”

BylawNo. 9006 proposes to authorizethe City to borrow$55.7 millionfromthe Municipal FinanceAuthoritytofund thenew NorthShore Neighbourhood House, Kings Mill Walk Park and1600 EasternParkprojects. TheNorth ShoreNeighbourhood House(NSNH), currently situated at 225East2nd Street,offers awiderange of essential community services includingchildcare,youth andseniors’programs, recreational and wellnessprograms, andfoodsecurityprograms. Theircurrent buildingwas constructed in1967 andisnearing endoflife. Thenew NSNH is part of ajoint usefacilityaspartof an overallsiteredevelopment.Thisproposalwould fund theconstructionofthe NSNH, while providing180 units of non-profit rental housing, whichwould be funded by a non-profithousing developer.

In addition,the lowcostdebtfinancingwould allowfor thedeliveryofthe KingsMill Walk Park,a destinationwaterfrontparkfor City residents, as well as thedeliveryof aparkinCentral Lonsdale,anareathathas been identifiedasa priority in theParks Master Plan.

The bylawand background material areavailablefor viewingonlineatcnv.org/ PublicNoticesand cnv.org/aap from March13, 2024 to April22, 2024. Additional information regardingthe AlternativeApprovalProcess, as well as ElectorResponse Forms, canbeaccessedonlineatcnv.org/aap.

If youare in favour of adoption of BylawNo. 9006, no furtheractionisrequired. If you areopposedtothe Bylaw, an AlternativeApproval ProcessElector Response Form must be completedand submitted. Formsare availableatthe FrontDeskofCityHall, 141 West14th Street,North Vancouver, Monday to Friday between8:30amand 5:00 pm, exceptstatutory holidays, andonthe City’s websiteatcnv.org/aap,startingonMarch 13, 2024.

Only resident electors andnon-residentpropertyowner electors of theCityofNorth Vancouver areentitledtocompletethe AlternativeApproval ProcessElector Response Forms.

AlternativeApproval ProcessElector ResponseForms will only be accepted if they are in theformestablishedbythe City of NorthVancouver Council.Accuratecopiesofthe form maybeduplicatedand used forsigning.ThisAlternative Approval Processapplies tothe entirety of theCityofNorth Vancouver.

SignedAlternative Approval ProcessElector Response Formsmustbereceivedbythe Corporate OfficeratCityHall, 141West14th Street,North Vancouver, BC,V7M 1H9, no later than 5:00 pm on Monday,April 22,2024. Submissionsreceivedafter thedeadline, including postmarked submissions, will notbeaccepted.

Council mayadopt BylawNo. 9006 unless, by thedeadline, at least10% of theeligible electorsofthe City of NorthVancouver indicate that they areopposed to this Bylaw proceedingand therefore, Council must obtain theassent of theelectorsbefore proceeding. Thenumberofeligible electorsinthe City is 42,325.The City must receive at least4,233 valid response formsopposedtothe Bylawtoprevent Council from proceedingwithout theassent of theelectors.

For additional information, please contactPeter DeJong,ActingCorporate Officerat clerks@cnv.orgor604-990-4233.

Metro Vancouver snowpack sitting at 39 per cent of normal

JANE SEYD jseyd@nsnews.com

The snowpack that feeds Metro Vancouver’s water supply during hot summer months is well below historical levels, despite recent snow that fell at the end of February and beginning of March.

Metro Vancouver’s most recent March snow survey found the snowpack is about 39 per cent of the average historical level, according to the regional government. That’s an improvement from February, when the snowpack was sitting at only 30 per cent of average.

But it’s still not enough to allay concerns about a potential drought this summer

While the recent snowfall helped with the outlook for water supply, “the snowpack is still lower than we would like to see at this time of year,” said Metro’s water committee chair Malcolm Brodie, in a statement.

Brodie said it’s still too early to tell what impact the current conditions will have on water supply in the summer, but added Metro plans to ramp up water conservation measures earlier than usual.

Seasonal lawn watering restrictions are scheduled to come into effect May 1. Since 2022, property owners have also been limited to lawn watering one day a week, down from two days a week previously

On Friday, March 8, the BC River Forecast Centre provided a province-wide update for the snowpack situation, showing the average snowpack sitting at about 66 per cent of normal on March 1. That’s up from 61 per cent of normal recorded Feb. 1, but remains the “second lowest provincial March 1 snowpack that we’ve seen,” said Dave Campbell, head of the provincial River Forecast Centre.

The historic low was in 1977, “where we had 53 per cent of normal,” said Campbell.

While there’s still some time for snow to accumulate, by this date “we typically have about 80 per cent of the snow we see for the year,” said Campbell in a press conference Friday

Usually the middle of April marks the peak of snow accumulation. After that, the snowpack begins melting with warmer weather.

Snowpack plays its biggest role usually later in the summer, as hot weather dries up other water sources. With a low snowpack, that water will be reduced.

So far weather forecasts are pointing to an increased chance of a continuing El Niño influence bringing a warmerthan-usual spring and early summer, said Campbell, which could increase the risk of an early snow melt.

The low snowpack this year is partly a result of record high temperatures and atmospheric river events in January that melted a lot of the existing snow, said Campbell.

Campbell added persistent dry weather that has gripped the province for the better part of the last two years is a key factor in the potential for drought conditions this summer. “We’ve seen a decrease in contributions to shallow and deep groundwater,” he said, which can impact river flows. “So that sort of slow filtering of water that comes in from the soils into the stream channels, that’s where we’re seeing the impact,” he said.

Third Street developer trades stratas and parking for rentals

BRENT RICHTER brichter@nsnews.com

An already-approved but not-yet-built development in Lower Lonsdale will be getting a lot more renters and a lot less parking.

Council voted unanimously March 11 on Anthem Sunshine Development’s request to convert their five-storey project at 149 West Third St. from 50 strata units to 80 rentals, while keeping the building’s height and gross floor area the same.

Because the city’s zoning bylaw requires only 0.6 stalls per unit for rentals compared to 1.05 for stratas, the change would allow the developer to eliminate one level of underground parking, making the all-rental project financially viable.

Today, the property is a demolition site but it was once home to a produce store, restaurants and North Shore Bowl.

City staff acknowledged that it was “a bit of an unusual type of report” coming before council but, because the change would add to the city’s rental stock, staff recommended council approve the request. The developer will still have to meet the same

An artist’s rendering shows how 149 West Third St would look under a redevelopment plan from Anthem Sunshine Project.

MCFARLANE BIGGAR ARCHITECTS + DESIGNERS INC

requirements for commercial and disability parking, proportion of three-bedroom units and adaptable units included in the proposal at the time of its original rezoning, which council supported unanimously in 2022.

Council’s support to add rentals and lose parking was unanimous.

“I support this shift. I think, given the economy right now, if this means pencils are up and we’re moving a project forward, I’m happy to see that, as opposed to not [going ahead] because the economics aren’t working for it,” said Mayor Linda Buchanan

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Centennial Theatre

Shot againstthe backdropofthe North Shore, thesefive shortfilms delve into theintricate dynamics among parents, siblings,friendsand lovers.

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NewSteamworkslocation coming to Central Lonsdale

NICK LABA nlaba@nsnews.com

Beer and patio enjoyers will have anew reason to gather in the Central Lonsdale area of North Vancouver.

Burnaby-based brewery Steamworks has announced plans to launcharestaurant andtaproomlocation at a new rental development on 21st Street off Lonsdale Avenue, across the street from LondonDrugs.

Once opened, the location will host 280 seats, 140 inside and another140 outside on a1,900-squarefootpatio,accordingtoa statement.

TheNorth Vancouver Steamworkswill featurea 1,900-square-foot patio with140 seats DARWIN PROPERTIES

The site is currently under constructionaspartofthe LonsdaleSquare development.

The new Steamworkstaproom will feature20house taps, 10 guest taps and a “diverse”menuthat includes plant-based options.

This would be the thirdsatellite location for Steamworks, following their flagship brew pub in Gastown and their Mount Pleasant location on Main Street in Vancouver.

The North Vancouver location is expected to open in early fall 2024, a spokesperson said.

‘Bear whisperer’Ellie Lambhonouredwith TimJonesAward

JANE SEYD jseyd@nsnews.com

She’saffectionately known as theBear Whisperer.

North Vancouver’sEllie Lamb had an affinity for wild creaturesat ayoung age.

Growing up on an acreagewith horsesinAlberta, Lamb always felt aspecial connection withthe wilderness at her doorstep.

“I was fortunate to have alot of time innature,” she said. “Wewere so close to the mountains.”

As achild, Lamb also got to know and appreciate the animals that inhabited that land.

“Naturewas just as connected to me as breathing, and the animals wereall apartofnature,” shesaid.

So when, at ageseven, she saw aphoto in the newspaper of awolf thathad beenshotbyahunter, Lamb said she was devastated. Her mother helped her write aletterto the editor,expressing her outrage. That letter wasn’t published, but two pages of letters from others who had similar views were. For Lamb,thatwas an important validation, that other people also cared about their fellow creatures.

“I was an advocate quite early,” she said.

Fast forwardafew decades and Lambhas continued to advocate for wildlife, drawing on her experiencesasa guide and close observer of animals in the natural environment to help educate

people on how to safely co-exist with wild creatures, particularly bears.

Most recently,Lamb was awarded the 11th annual Tim JonesAwardforher tireless advocacy work for groups like the North ShoreBlack Bear Society andPacific Wild, as well as her work as adog handler forNorth ShoreRescue.

Named in honour of the late North Shore Rescue leader Tim Jones, the awardisco-presented by the Vancouver International MountainFilm Festival and North ShoreRescueeach year to recognize people who have

demonstrated outstanding commitment and service tothe B.C. sports and outdoor community.

According to the jurythat chose to honour Lamb,the North Shore volunteer stood out through her tireless dedication and selfless service at many volunteer organizations thateducate British Columbians on thenatureand understanding of bears.

Lamb is aboardmember of the North ShoreBlack Bear Society, Grizzly Bear Foundation, Get Bear SmartWhistler and awildlife advisor on theadvisorycommittee forPacific Wild Organization. She is also asearch dog handler for

North ShoreRescue and hasbeen ateam member since 2014.

“Herpassion, kindness, and unwavering commitment to serving others aretruly inspiring,” said jurymemberLindsay Jones. “Ellie’simpact extends farbeyond her immediate community, touching thelives of countless individuals across British Columbia. Sheexemplifies the values that Timheld dear,and we aredelighted to recognize her remarkable achievements.”

Observer ofbearsin the wild

One of Lamb’sparticular passions is for teaching people about the nuances of bears in the wild, something she’sbeen observing firsthand for many years.

For several months each summer season, Lamb has worked out of alodge in theBella Coola valley as aguide forpeople who want to observe bears inthe wild.

“You get to know the bears. And you get to know their different personalities and you get to know their offspring. Youwatch them grow up,”she said. “It’sjustfascinating to really spendtimeand see how complex they really are.”

Most people likely thinkof bears as unpredictable and aggressive, she said.

“But that’s not really accurate,” she said,addingthat bears can be complexanimals. “Their personalities do vary. They get taught by their mothers and have

experiences [that shape their behaviour].”

“Thereare things we need to learn about them in order to co-exist,” she said.

Lamb’shope is that by introducing others to thecomplex natureofwildlife, shewill also play apartinsaving it.

Campaigning to stop shooting of bearsbyconservation officers

Most recently,Lambhas been partofacampaign advocating for achange in theway B.C’s Conservation Officer Service responds to bears that move into populated areas, and particularly the way they deal with orphaned bear cubs, adding she’salarmed by theescalatingnumber of bears beingkilled by conservation officers, including arecordnumber in 2023.

Often thebears that show up arevulnerable members of the bear population–because they are caring for cubs, or because they’re old or sick, Lambsaid, andit’spart of their survival strategy to stay out of theterritoryof aggressive males.

“Justtheir presence is considered apublic safety risknow.At what point do we actually lose these animals?” she said

“If we didn’thave them, we would lose such ahuge piece of our nature. And wheredoes it go from there?”

Ellie Lambposes with twoofher favouritebears in the Bella Coola Valley, Ms.Eand hercub Bandita. SYLVIA DOLSON

Lamb workswith NSR

Lamb said she’salways had special connection with animals. She hasbeen ahorse trainer in the past, and these days also volunteers as asearch dog handler with North Shore Rescue.

Search dog trainer and handler

It was Lamb who introduced search dogs to North Shore Rescue in 2014 with her Belgian Malinois Nan.Nan retiredin 2019and,sadly,died later that year

She’shad her current canine search companion Dreki for several years now

Search dogs like Dreki arehighly trained working dogs. Tobeaccredited by the B.C.Search DogAssociation, it takes about 2,000hours of specializedtraining overand above the usualhousebreaking and obedience

Theythen have to passa test in which both the dogand their handler arejudged as ateam.

Lambsaid she’snot surewhat it is that allows her to connectwith animals.

“I was born into it somehow,”she said

She views her work withDreki similarlytothe way she feels about educating people about bearsand otherwildlife – usingher skills to be of service. She adds she’s gratefulfor the support of the community on the North Shore –which isinthe special position of having wilderness right at its doorstep.

Lamb didn’t ever meet TimJones, the legendary North ShoreRescue leader. She joined the team after he died in Januaryof2014. But his influence on theteam is such that Lambsaid it’shardnot to feel Jones’presence still permeating theirwork. “I almost feelthat Ihavemet him,” she said Lamb waspreviously awarded the Outstanding Advocacy Clements Awardfromthe Associationfor the Protectionof Fur-Bearing Animals, or Fur-Bearers.

Amongthe many exceptional nominations received for the TimJones awardthis year,three other individualsstood out for their remarkable contribution and were awarded honourable mentions: Steve McTaggartfrom North Vancouver,for his efforts for over 22 yearswith ScoutsCanada and the 21st Capilano Scouts; DuaneYoung, for 23 years of contributions to groundSAR in Nanaimo; and, post-humously, David Reid from Squamish,who was a legendarypartofthe mountain biking community who died in atragic kayak accident. All wererecognizedfor their outstanding efforts anddedication to theiroutdoor communities.

Sager and his sister.

Smith said when that decision was made public, he had a discussion with Sager about it.

“I was agonized about it. I met with him,” he said. “And of course, he had an explanation for everything. ‘This was just a misunderstanding. People didn’t understand.’”

But Smith says at this point, he’s done with explanations.

“The point of that is, he’s a lawyer, and it’s a position of trust. You’re dealing with other people’s money Just like the mayor is dealing with a lot of taxpayers’ money,” he said.

“I just don’t think we can have a mayor who doesn’t have a sense of ethics,” he said “I don’t think that’s acceptable. Not acceptable to me.”

Smith said since making his views known, he’s heard from several people in West Vancouver who he encouraged to support Sager in the last election.

“Now they’re reminding me of that, wondering what the hell I was doing,” he said. “I said, ‘I made a mistake.’”

As a former mayor, Smith said he’s aware there is no way to force a local politician out of office.

“But at least I can feel better about myself that I stood up and did something,” he said.

Smith isn’t the only one calling for Sager’s resignation.

In the past week, West Vancouver resident Christine Haebler also started an online petition calling for Sager to step down for similar reasons.

Haebler is a filmmaker who doesn’t usually get involved with politics.

But “I voted for him,” she said. “I encouraged other people to vote for him There’s a lot of good people on his team who I really liked.”

Haebler said when people questioned Sager’s previous citation for professional

misconduct by the law society ahead of the 2022 election, “he just glossed it over completely He said it was a misunderstanding that was being cleared up.”

But the latest suspension is “a whole different matter,” she said.

Haebler said if Sager had “come clean” and acknowledged making a mistake, she could have accepted that. But now, she said she questions the mayor’s integrity.

“If you want to get our vote, and you want to lead this community, the basic minimum here is integrity and honesty And it should be for everybody,” she said.

Haebler said she started the petition “to send a message that people do care about these things.”

“I don’t wade into politics very easily,” she said. “You can complain and complain and complain…. I feel, well, maybe it’s time to speak up.”

Not everyone thinks Sager should resign as mayor as a result of his law society suspension.

Nigel Malkin, who also supported Sager in the last election, said he has also read the law society documents and still trusts Sager and feels he’s done a good job for the municipality.

“I don’t think he should step down,” said Malkin. “I feel confident with him remaining as our mayor.”

As of press time, Sager had not responded to a North Shore News request for comment.

Mayor Mark Sager presides over a budget committee meeting Feb. 26 NICK LABA /

Crypto-currency traders, gold sellersto be limited inWestVan

JANE SEYD jseyd@nsnews.com

Crypto currency exchanges,gold andjewelry buyers, and hawkers of “non-fungible tokens” areamong the businesses West Vancouver councillors say they’d like to see banished from the street and kicked upstairs inkey commercial areas of the municipality.

Those businesses, along with mortgage brokers, income tax services, bookkeepers and insurances companies, wereadded this week to alist of financial businessescouncil hassaid they’d like to see limited along the street in Ambleside and Dundarave.

Those services join alist of other businesstypes –including doctors’ offices, veterinaryclinics, dog groomers and walkers,pharmacies, fitnessand esthetics studios,business and commercial schools – whichWestVancouver council previously told staffitwanted restricted to taking up no morethan 20 per cent of each blockat street level in Ambleside and Dundarave commercial areas.

Council has also indicated it wants pharmacies limited to no morethan fiveinthe

Ambleside commercial area and only one in Dundarave.

Themove is an expansion of restrictions already in place in West Vanthat limit several other kinds of businesses including nail salons, real estateoffices and money exchanges.

Thelatestchanges areintended to encourage vibrancy in the district’s walkable commercial areas, said Coun. Christine Cassidy,who introduced the motion back in November to have staffdraft bylaws further limiting the number of certain types of public-facing businesses allowed at street level.

Council now has the option of withholding business permits to applicants whose businesses conflict with the proposed zoning.

Cassidy said while dental and doctors’ offices and pharmacies have been increasing at street level, those businesses aren’t the kind that encourage people to linger and breathe life into commercial areas.

Some concerns have been expressed about the proposed changes.

AccordingtoWestVancouver Fireand Rescue,inthe past 15 years they have

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If you’ve lived on the North Shorefor anylength of time,you know that it’s awet place.For homeowners,that can mean leaks around windows as the unrelenting elements erode what once seemed liketight seals.

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“Whatmakesus uniqueiswearethe windowsupplieras wellastheinstaller. Youonlyhavetodeal withonecompany andweareina positiontoaddress

anyconcernsyou haverightaway.

“Within the windowreplacement industrythereare twodistinct methods used to replace windows,” says Darrell.“One style is commonly referred to as ‘retrofitting’a window, and employs the use of awindow with an integrated trim. Most windowreplacement companies use this technique.”

This approach, however, can often cause as manyproblems as it solves

“Properly sealing this type of window is almost impossible,” says Darrell, “and we will thereforenever use this method. Thesecond method requires amoreskilled crew as there is finish carpentryrequired.”

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responded to about 18 requests peryear foremergency assistance from medical clinics, with morethan 70 per cent ofthose in ground floor offices. According to information supplied by thefire department, in manybuildings, elevators aren’t big enough forstretchers, so firefighters might haveto carrypatients downstairs or have them sit upright if medical offices wereon second floors.Street level offices arealso easier for ambulances to find than upper floor offices, areporttocouncil noted.

Cassidy stressed in awrittenreport to council, however,thatthe change won’t impact medical clinics occupying the ground floors of nearby streetsthat run parallel to Marine Drive.

At aMarch 11 meeting, Coun. Nora Gambioli asked her council colleagues Cassidyand Scott Snider how they came upwith the list of businesses unwelcome at street level.

“Why arethese ones chosentonot occupy morethan 20 per cent?” she asked. “I’m not an expert on this and I’m notaware that councillors Cassidy andSnider were either.” Gambioli addedshe doubts businesses potentially affected know aboutthe new restrictions.

Cassidy said she and Snider “just used

our two legs and walked up and down thestreet” to see which businesses were monopolizing the street.

“They arechoking the life out of our business community,”she said.

Cassidy added there’snothing stopping businesses from moving toasecond floor. “We’renot asking them to leave the community,” she said. “They can go upstairs.”

MaureenO’Brien of the Ambleside DundaraveBusiness Improvement Area told council local businesses areinfavour ofthe restrictions, in hopes it will contribute to amorevibrant commercial area.

Businesses on Bellevue Avenue are doing well, she noted,and thereare none of the less desirable uses occupying street space there.

Currently thereisnoavailable ground floor retailspace forlease in Ambleside orDundarave, said O’Brien, so uses like money exchanges arepushing out retail businesses that might contribute to alivelier commercial area.

Once the bylaws bringing in the change areofficially passed by council, businesses that don’t comply with the new rules would becomelegally non-conforming and would be allowed to continue in their current location. The changes would only impact new tenants movingintothose retail spaces.

AmblesideFireFestivalbrings communitytogether to celebrate spring

HAMID JAFARI

Contributing writer

Ambleside Park was filled with the presence of many Iranians who gathered to celebrate Chaharshanbeh Suri during West Vancouver’sannual Fire Festival March 12.

Chaharshanbeh Suri, atraditionalIranian festival, is deeply rooted in the culture and symbolizes atime of cleansing.

Arman Sardari, asergeantwith the West Vancouver Police Department,highlighted thesignificance of the eventashemonitored the crowdand enjoyed the celebrations.

“Wejump over fires so that we can leave thebad spirits behind and move into the new year with only good intentionsand good things on our mind,” he said.

Sardari has been serving withthe police department for morethan 14 years in various roles. “One thing that all of us do in West Vancouver is that we do community policing,” he said. “We’reverycommunity police oriented and that includes community events like the Nowruz.”

He grew up on the North Shore within the Iranian community.When it comesto Nowruz andother Iranian events, he is usually tapped on the shoulder to help out.

“Chaharshanbeh Suri is oneofthose

events whereIenjoy coming out to speak, getting to know everyone, taking pictures and sharingwithmycolleagues, especially about the IranianNew Year and its terminology,” he said. “It’smoreabout cultureand tradition rather than religion. Ithink that’s

whatreallysets us apart.”

He believes that when oneleaves their country,they often want to find communities that they can relate to and celebrate their old traditions with.

“Chaharshanbeh Suri is one of those annual traditions where peoplecan get together,reminisce about oldtimes, and keep that culture and allthose traditions alive.”

Armin Nejad Yousefi, a35-year-old Persian singer,migrated to Canadaabout fiveyearsago and currentlyresides on the North Shore.

“WecelebrateChaharshanbeh Suri, atraditional event marking the end of winter and welcoming the arrival of spring,” he said. “I workwith the Bakaraband as asinger.”

Nejad Yousefi believes that when Iranian people migratetoother countries, they trytoreturn to the traditional things they hadbeforeand traditional celebrations like Yalda, Chaharshanbeh Suri,and Nowruz

“I can say theIslamic Republicregime has banned us from happiness, so we don’t have those things in Iran,” he said. “Wecan’t do as much thereaswecan here.”

Patrick Weiler,the Member of Parliament forWest Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to SkyCountry,attended this event and said

it’simportant for the government of Canada to celebrate all the different cultures that make up thecountry’smosaic.

“Weknow the Iranian Canadian community,both on the North Shoreand across thecountry, is very large, and it’sareally important partofwhatmakes our community what it is,” he said. “It’sanimportant opportunity to celebrate Nowruz.”

Weiler believes that it’sanimportant time, not only for theIranian community or Afghan community,but for all communities to celebrate their roots together.

“It’sanopportunity for everybody to learn about theculturehereand to celebrate it too,”hesaid. “I think events like theseare really important. It’simportant for the entire community to have achance to understand the richness of the community.”

Those who attended the firefestival Tuesday enjoyed live music, firejumping, and the offerings of food trucks. The celebration was hosted by the Iranian Canadian Congress.

Hamid Jafari is aVancouver-based freelance journalist who writesabout the Iranian community in Canada, art, culture,and social media trends. His work for the North Shore News is supported by New Canadian Media. itshamidjafari@gmail.com

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Fire jumping at the annual Chaharshanbeh Suri festivalatWestVancouver’s Ambleside Park allows communitymembers to leave bad spirits behind as theywelcome the arrivalofspring. HAMID JAFARI /NSN

Motion-sensor camera sets off rescue

BRENT RICHTER brichter@nsnews.com

Smile. You’re on candid camera, and it might have just saved your life.

North Shore Rescue saved an out-of-bounds skier earlier this month after the team’s motion sensor camera captured him at an emergency rescue cache and alerted search managers

The team has a few strategically placed caches, helipads and shelters across the North Shore where lost people can hunker down and wait for rescuers to arrive, including one at Montizambert Creek west of the Cypress Mountain Resort boundaries, said Stan Sovdat, search manager.

“It’s located over a very large cliff that has claimed a few people in the past,” he said.

On the afternoon of March 6, a man called Cypress Mountain Resort to say he was lost, which triggered a relay of calls with his wife, who could help with Chinese translation, and the West Vancouver Police Department.

But North Shore Rescue members were already beginning plans to get the man out because the cache’s

motion-sensing camera spotted him and emailed photos to the team’s leadership.

“We actually had images of a single person climbing up the slope,” Sovdat said. “He was looking at the camera.”

It’s the first time the camera has mobilized a response before the team had officially been tasked.

They soon connected with West Vancouver police and Sovdat reached the man over the phone, telling him to stay put. The safest way to get the

skier out, he deemed, would be to land a Talon helicopter at the adjacent helipad.

Once safely on the ground, they interviewed the man and learned he’d ducked the rope at the Cypress boundary When he realized he was lost and unlikely to make it back to the resort, he thought he’d follow the creek down to Highway 99 “not understanding the extensive cliffs below him and the massive, massive dangers for him of slipping, falling and killing himself,” Sovdat said.

Although some people are tempted to go outside the resort in search of fresh snow, the ropes are placed specifically to keep people out of potentially deadly terrain, Sovdat said.

“He was healthy and uninjured, but learned a few lessons,” he added.

And, in the North Shore Mountains, going downhill almost always leads to greater danger for the person who is lost and greater risk for rescuers trying to get them out, Sovdat said.

“It always funnels into canyons and really dense vegetation and steep, steep cliffs,” he said.

North Shore Rescue volunteers prepare to rescue a Cypress Mountain skier after he went out of bounds on March

TIME TRAVELLER

A weekly glimpseintoNorth Shore’spastfromMONOVA: Museum of NorthVancouver

Elevatingfood into art

JamesLovickLtd., ownedbyJames Lovick,was thebiggest ad agency in Canada throughthe mid-century. His prestigiouscompany employed celebrated NorthShore photographer Jack Cash,who wasatone point commissioned to photograph “4 diffrent [sic]crabdishes.”

Underanaccount forB.C.Packers,Cashshone aspotlight on oneofthe finaldishes– acrabsalad.Sitting on a bed of lettuceare largechunks of crab meatand shreddedcrab, with twoplump tomatoes

As an accompaniment, wholestalksofgreen onionsit in asmall plastic wheelbarrow, akitschy reminder of meals gone by.

Visit monova.cafor more informationabout thehistory of theNorth Shoreand to learnabout MONOVA: MuseumofNorth Vancouver, now open at 115WestEsplanade in TheShipyards.MONOVA: Archives of NorthVancouver is locatedat3203Institute Road in Lynn Valley.Contact:archives@monova.ca

PRECARIOUSPOOCH

Dogrescued afterslipping off cliff edge at Quarry Rock

JANE SEYD jseyd@nsnews.com

Acurious canine willlikely be on ashorter leash in future after firefighters hadtorescue thepooch that slippedoff NorthVancouver’sQuarry Rock.

Scott Ferguson, assistant chief of District of North Vancouver Fireand Rescue Services, said firefighters were called out by the dog’sowner March 13, after her dog took an unfortunate tumble.

The dogand owner had hiked to the top of thescenic lookout when thedog –a golden doodle named Grizzly– saw its ball rolling away and bounded after thetoy

Unfortunately, Grizzlywasn’t on aleash at thetime and theballwas rolling over a cliff edge.

The dog went over theedge of the rock but managedtostop on aledge about 20 feet below.

Firefighters called to the scene are familiar with theareaasthey regularly practice rope rescues there,said Ferguson.

Crews lowered aroped and harnessed firefighter down to the dog, which was then putinaspecial dogharness and walked back up to the topofQuarryRock, wherethe pooch was reunited with his owner

Fergusonsaid it’simportantfor owners to keep their dogs leashed, especially on trails near riverbanks andcliffedges

“Always have control of thedog,” he said.

Firefighters do get called out on occasiontorescue dogs that have been swept into rivers or fallen over cliffedges in canyons.

“Sometimes the results have been tragic, and sometimes they have good endings,” he said.

Fergusonsaid onereasonfirefighters arewilling to come andrescue pets is they know if they don’t, ownersand friends will likelytry to rescuethe animals themselves, potentially placing people in danger

“Wedon’t want the public gettingina bad situation,” he said.

Photo: NVMA,Fonds 164

ArchitectBarry Downs’sformer homelistsfor $4.6M in West Van

NICK LABA nlaba@nsnews.com

He was an architect behind some of the region’smost iconic landmarks –Canada Place, LibrarySquare, and the former North Vancouver City Civic Centre–and now youcan buyhis iconic formerhome.

Downs House II, which was built by Barry Downs for himself in 1979, listedonthe market on Friday for just shy of $4.6 million.

Situated on ahalf-acrelot 6664 Marine Dr.inWest Vancouver,the 1,464-square-foot home features two bedrooms and twobathrooms. An attached studio unit has another bathroom and kitchenette

The modestly sized structuresits on acliff120 feet above Garrow Bay.The waterfront home features post and beam construction, with largewindows throughout and an exterior clad in cedarshingles.

Downs lived in the home until he died in July2022 at age 92.

While other properties designed by Downs’sfirm areonWest Vancouver’s heritage register,the 6664 MarineDr. home is not. That makes it aprime target for redevelopment if an architecture-loving

The 1,464-square-foot homesitsona 120-foot cliff above Garrow BayinWest Vancouver THE WHITESPACE CO

buyer isn’t found,sayslisting agent Trent Rodney.

Downs partnered with fellowWest Coast Modern architect Fred Hollingsworth in the 1960s beforelaunching DA Architects + Planners with RichardArchambault in 1969. With several famous projects under his belt,including the siteofExpo 86, Downs received the Order of Canada in 2014.

CROSSWORD

Solutionscan be found in the Wednesday March27th issue.

CLUESACROSS

1. Getaway

8. Contact

12.Distinctive period

13.Tiny

14.Section

15.Frozen

16.Yoked beasts

17. Rosy

18.Trembled

20.Lubricate

22.Extent

25.Not legally binding

28. Infrequent

29.“ WhichWay YouCan”

32.Bewrong

33. Type of coffee

34._ whiz!

35.Football-kickoff aid

36.Film unit

37.Patched

38.Turmoil

40.Sufficient

44. Watchers

48.Piecesoftrees

49.Baker

52.Struggle(for)

53.Sensitive

54. Understandtext

55.House wing

56.Metes out

57.Profits

58. Ump’scousin

CLUESDOWN

1. Oahu souvenirs

2. Curveddoorway

3. BLTdressing

4. Fire sign

5. Blend

6. Half of two

7. Soft drink:2wds

8. Superman’s garb

9. Soprano’s solo

10.Telescope part

11. Huron or Tahoe

19.Uncanny

21. Coral ridge

23. Tenderfoot

24.Indy500 participant

25.Dog’s doc

26.Metal-bearing rock

27.Deep anger

29.Mature

30._ Orleans

31. Yearning

33. Medicine

37.Porky’spen

39.Passes along

40.Or_ (threat)

41.Recess

42.Fairy-tale baddie

43.Operates

45.Atall

46.Annoy

47.Personality

50.Sign of triumph

51.Erode

Crosswordpuzzle answers use American spelling

Wednesday March13th Solutions:

Al

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REMEMBRANCES

In MeMorIaM

Shirley Buckley

December 14, 1939 to March 15, 2022

It has been two years since I lost you and it still only seems like yesterday.

I know those we love do not go away, they walk beside us every day.

You are in my heart and thoughts today, tomorrow and always.

Forever in my heart and always missed, Your Daughter, Sandra

obItuarIes

BALFOUR, Janice

October 1, 1953 −November 11, 2023

Janice Eileen Balfour (née Brown) passed away on November 11, 2023. AService of Remembrance will be held on Saturday, April 13, at 1:30 at Gloria DeiLutheran Church, 1110 Gladwin Ave, North Vancouver, with areception to follow.

MCDONALD, H. Douglas

May 22, 1929 −February 2, 2024

It is with the deepest sorrow we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather and great−grandfather. He was predeceased by our loving mother,EvMcDonald, in 2022.

Doug is survived by his four children, Joan (Mike), Cam(Nicole), Susan (Peter), and Sharon (Jamie); nine grandchildren,Laura, Meagan, Sean,Chanel, Justine, Bryan, Chloe, Lauren, and Neve; and one great−grandchild.

Doug was born and raised in Saskatchewan. He worked briefly as aone−room school teacher, and commuted home to Saskatoon on weekends. He then worked for many years as abuyer andmen’s/ boy’s wearmanager at the HudsonsBay Co. He met the love of his life, Evelyn Rea, and they were engaged within 6months. After living in Saskatoon andEdmonton, he was transferred to Vancouver, BC.Hethen obtained hisRealtor licence and worked as aReal Estate agent for 25 years.

Dadthoroughlyenjoyed his 30 years of retirement andtravelled to almost every continent with Mom by his side.

Doug passed away at the North Shore Hospice after abrief illness with his loving family by his side.

A celebration of his life is planned for Friday, May3rd, at 2:00 pm at the Lynn Valley United Church.

obItuarIes

COOK, Stephani Pamela (nee Donegani)

November 21, 1944 - March 6, 2024

Stephani passed away peacefully on March 6, 2024, at Lions Gate Hospita in North Vancouver, after a brief illness. She was surrounded by her family during her final days She is survived by and will be greatly missed by Brian, her husband of 58 years, her sons Christopher and Benjamin, her beloved granddaughters Stella, Bijou and Willow, her sisters Susan and Judith, and her extended family She was predeceased by her parents James (Bun) and Bette Donegani.

Stephani was born in Winnipeg and although she loved her many years on the West Coast, she was a Winnipegger at heart - a Kelvin High School grad, a Blue Bomberette cheerleader, a Gamma Phi Beta, and a University of Manitoba alum. She relished family time every summer at Victoria Beach, with her “sisties” and their families.

She was a thoughtful, kind, loving and generous woman; never hesitating to offer help to her family, friends, and neighbours. She always put the needs of others first - her sons often joked about Steph being the one always willing to take that burnt slice of toast!

Steph’s intelligence and clever wit held her in good stead. She so enjoyed her daily NY Times cross words and weekly bridge games with friends Staying connected to lifelong pals was a priority for her, weekly Zoom time with Marsha, Heather, Pat and visits with Judy in Victoria

Stephani had a beautiful relationship with her granddaughters and was an integral and active part of their busy lives. From school pick-ups to one-on-one shopping trips to sideline cheering, Gramma was the best!

Steph….. Wife / Mom / Sister / Gramma / Aunt, will be deeply missed and always remembered. The family is planning a celebration of life at Victoria Beach this summer In memory of Stephani, please feel free to donate to the Union Gospel Mission, Lions Gate Hospital Foundation or a charity that holds a special place in your heart.

Bye Steph, you will forever be in ours.

REMEMBRANCES

Obituaries

CATHCART,James Stephen

September 20, 1939 −February 22, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Jim after avaliant struggle with his health these past few months. Jim is survived by his loving wife of fifty years, Virginia (Ginny) Cathcart; daughters Debra Cathcart, Wendy Cathcart (partner Doug Buckle) and Lori Lourens (husband Peter);and Lori’s children Justin Cathcart (wife Brittany), Mitchell Lourens, and KaylaLourens (fiancéElliott Allard). Jim and Ginny’s 17−year−old Jack Russell Terrier, Annie, decided to join Jim in his perfect garden in the sky just six days after he passed.

Jim was born in North Battleford,Saskatchewan, and raisedinVancouver, British Columbia. He oved our little cottage and English garden in Edgemont Village. Jimand Ginnyshared many wonderful memorieswith his daughters and grandchildren at this home.

Jim was apharmaceutical representative for Oral− BCompany when he met Ginny, aDental Hygienist, in Edmonton. It was love at first sight. He did not get the "brush off," as the story goes. Later, hebecame an Office Furniture Consultant and Project Manager. He owned businesses, Cathcart Executive Offices(CEO) in Alberta and Hightouch Marketing in Vancouver until he retired twenty yearsago. He loved working with clients to design, manage and create beautiful office interiors with them.

It was in retirement that Jim found his true passions in life. Jim enjoyed this passage where he could pursue his love for managing the home, researching his genealogy, painting, writing, cooking, gardening, renovating and walking little Annie in the Village.

As abachelor, Jim traveled throughout Europe and North Africaand spenta "mandatory" period writing poetry on aGreek island. Another year was spent running in the shadows of Hemingway’s "bull" until he found his own Spanish Sun. His last frontier was the "True North strong and free" and the Arctic misadventure, where he found the spirit and soul of Canada. Jim has written many wonderful poems about his time in the Arctic.

One of Jim’s "fifteenminutes of fame" came when his poem "The Moon" was chosen by the New YorkQuarterly (1978 No. 22) for its "Tribute to Allen Ginsberg." Jim’s daughter Wendy recently publishedhis books on Amazon.ca asa Christmas gift. They are truly his legacy. See Jim’s books at www.jamesstephencathcart.com

The family thanks all the caring and skilled Health Professionals at Lions Gate Hospital and the VancouverCoastalHome Support Workers who kept him comfortable and safe at home.Instead of flowers, the family is grateful for donations to Harvest Project and/or the BCSPCA.

Therewill be acelebrationofJim’s amazing life at First Memorial Funeral Home and Boal Chapel in North Vancouver on March 22, 2024, at 2:00 pm.

Obituaries

CHASMAR, Patricia May (née Pirie)

May 27, 1926 - October 19, 2023

At the age of 97, Patrcia (Pat) Chasmar passed away quietly, surrounded by her children. She was predeceased by her husband of 58 years, Dr Leslie R. Chasmar, in 2019. Pat will be fondly remembered for her excellent sense of style and grace, and her sharp but understated wit.

Pat was born in Unity, Saskatchewan, and spent her prairie childhood in the rural communities of Senlac and Humboldt with her younger brothers, twins Jack and Gordon, and Glen. She was recognized early on for her scholastic and musical abilities. She also cycled, skied and played tennis.

After graduating in 1948 from the University of Saskatchewan as a laboratory technician, she embarked on a successful professional career, working for Merck & Co. in both Seattle and Montreal. Impressed with her skills and potential, Merck sent Pat to the University of California, Berkeley where she earned her master’s degree in library science. As a single, independent, female professional, Pat was a rarity in the 1950s, blazing trails well before the term ‘glass ceiling’ was even coined.

Her life took on a new dimension when she married Les in 1961, a close, long-time friend and widower with four young children. In joining the Chasmar family, Pat brought her considerable organizational talents and attention to detail to their home life in Saskatoon, with the family growing to seven upon the arrival of their son, Robert. Aside from the demands of child-rearing, she became an accomplished gourmet cook, hosting legendary dinner parties for their friends and Les’s medical colleagues, as wel as many memorabe family dinners.

Away from the home front, Pat oversaw UNICEF’s Hallowe’en and Christmas fund-raising campaigns in Saskatoon for many years. She had a discerning eye for fashion, art, and interior design. Pat and Les travelled extensively, appreciated fine dining, and simply enjoyed life, retiring to West Vancouver in 2009.

An inteligent, witty, and gracious woman, Pat will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She leaves her five children, Robert (Grace), Jean, Hugh (Kathleen), Ann, and John (Cydnee); eight grandchildren, Matthew, Katherine, Margaret, David, Robbie, Rennie, Elizabeth, and James; two great grandchildren, Adelaide and Theodore; brothers Jack (Daphne) and Glen (Sharon); and her many Pirie relatives.

The Chasmar family is thankful to the staff at Hollyburn House and HomeCare West for the wonderful and thoughtful care they provided for Pat in her fina years.

Obituaries

PARTRICK, Carole M.

September 21, 1936 −March 4, 2024

It is with tremendous sadnessthat we announce thepassingofour beloved mother and grandmother. Mom passed away peacefully at home with her children by her side at the age of 87 years. Shewas born in Edmonton, with the family moving to Nanaimo when she was in Grade 9. She trainedand worked as anurse in Vancouver but left nursing to start afamily in North Vancouver with herhusband,Bruce. She was an amazing Mom, always putting family and friends first and making sureeverything was planned out perfectly. She wasgenerous of heart and soul and always interested in others. She was kind and thoughtful, an excellent cook, baker, and seamstress. We have great memories of family holidays and so many wonderful memories from Gambier Island. Mom and Dad always welcomed friends and family with great food and drink. There were always chores to do, but so many fun activities like hiking, swimming,fishing,riding horses, feeding the pigs, gathering eggs, and outdoor and indoor games She had so many cherished friends,including her nursing classmates, the airline families, North Van neighbours, Gambier families, and her newer Dundarave neighbours and exercise friends.She struggledwith ongoing and worsening health issues over the past several years but now is finally at peace. She was predeceased by her husband, Bruce (2012) and sister, Audrey.She is survived by herloving children, Joanne (Daryl) and Mike (Val), andgrandkids Max, Dane, Owen, Reid, Joel, and Theo. We will all miss her terribly

STEWART, Morgan A. R. BCLS

June 14,1929 - December 13, 2023

Morgan A. R. Stewart passed away peacefully in his sleep after a long and full life. He was predeceased by his wife Mary (Babs) and his eldest son Brock. Morgan will be missed by his surviving children Corinne and Todd (Val), 6 grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and his partner Carole. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 1:00pm, at St. David’s United Church, West Vancouver with reception to follow

As yousharethe stories and the memories ofhow they lived their lives and howvery much they meant, mayyou find comfort...

REMEMBRANCES

Obituaries

SCHICK, Liz

June 26, 1938 −February 17,2024

Elizabeth (Liz) passed away on February 17, 2024, at Evergreen HouseinNorth Vancouver after a long illness. Liz is survivedbyher husband of 61 years, Don; herchildren Cathy (Jane) and David (Talge); two grandchildren; brother Joe (Kathy) Wurz; sister−in−law Lynn Wurz; and ten nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents and her brothers, Tom(Darlene) and Paul.

Liz was born in Penticton, BC, on June 26, 1938, to Thomas and Elizabeth Wurz. Lizgrew up on an orchard in Keremeos. She wasthe eldest child, known as Sis, to her three brothers, Tom, Paul and Joe. After high school, she became aregistered nurse, receiving her training at St. Paul’s Hospitalin Vancouver. Throughher classmates, she met Don buthad apause in the relationshipasLiz went to Bermuda to continue her nursing career. On her return, they married in Keremeos inSeptember 1962. In 1963,asDon and Liz started their family, they moved to Richmond, BC, at thattime arural community, until 1974, when they built ahouse in WestVancouver.They l ved there for 46 years, downsizing but staying on the North Shore n2018.

Sheworked as anutritional counselorinWest Vancouver for many years helping the community with weight loss programs. In theirlater years, Donand Liz travelled extensivelythroughout Europe. China, Australia, and New Zealand.

Liz was vibrant, generous and kind. Family and friends were important to her. She never placed her interests above those she cared about. She was aforgiving and thoughtful mother, sister, wife and friend.

Our family is deeply appreciative of the extraordinary and devoted care that Don provided our Mom over her years of declining health, keeping her home as long as possible.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to acharity of your choice.

Wednesday, April 17, at 2PM at First Memorial, 1505 Lillooet Rd, North Vancouver.

Obituaries

WALTHER, Joan

February 10, 1938 −February 27, 2024

Joan Walther (née Barton) was born in Worthing onthe Southern England coast and later emigrated with friends to Vancouver on the SS New York Easter 1958.She would meet her husband Harald inthe winter of 1958/59 at an ice rink in Kitsilano. They later purchased their first home in Buntzen Bay up Indian Armand married in 1966. Joan commuted by boat to work at Odlum Brown. Joan and her husband Harald bought Berolina Imports in 1968. They later moved to their house in Woodlands Indian Arm in 1973. They had two sons, Fergusand Andrew, in 1971and 1975, respectively and moved to Deep Cove in 1989. She would later have two granddaughters, Madelyn and Abbigail, and enjoyed many years visiting Pemberton and watching them grow into young adults. She had many friends who she would see regularly. Joan was known for her keen business sense and was a loving and generous wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She will be greatly missed by all.

ceRAmic tiLing

LegAL/PubLic

WAREHOUSE LIEN ACT

Following Registered Owners are indebtedtoMitchell’s Towing forstorageand towing on vehicles listed below.A lienisclaimed underthe Act. Thereis presently an amountdue and owing plus any additional costs of storage, seizure and sale that may accrue. Notice is hereby giventhat on April 22024 or thereafter,the said vehicles will be seizedand sold:

MACRYNUK, Samuel -2004 Chevrolet Avalanche VIN: 3GNEK12TX4G304569 -$5,242.92

MACRYNUK, Samuel -Argo UTV SERIAL NUMBER: NKB8959 &Trailer- $4,409.13

HASLAM, Tyler-2021 Dodge Ram3500VIN: 3C63R3DL8MG507097-$14,024.14

LITTLE, Elizabeth-2013 Nissan Rogue VIN: JN8AS5MV7DW130897 -$13,050.79

HADDAWAY-GRAHAM, Kelvin-2021 Dodge Ram 1500VIN: 3C6RR7KT2MG599764 -$20,646.26

HART,Kyle -2002 Ford Mustang VIN: 1FAFP45X12F148036 -$5,121.90

PRINGLE, Robert -2010 Hyundai Elantra -VIN: KMHDB8AE4AU065413 -$5,667.56

SMITH, John -1989 Jaguar XJS VIN: SAJNL4849KC158318 -$7,270.29

DICK, Margaret -2020 Nissan Kicks VIN: 3N1CP5BV2LL542242 -$5,389.11

MADDEN, Peter -GlastronTrailer &BoatVIN: 1L8AAEJA6CA006436- $27,793.65

Gateway Casino &Entertainment -2008 Chevrolet3500 VanVIN: 1GAHG39K681160497 -$7,890.11

Kain Gladue -2015Ford Mustang VIN: 1FA6P8TH2F5360099 -$6,293.36

Thevehicles are currently stored at Mitchell’s Towing Ltd, 1255 WelchStreet, North Vancouver,BC, V7P1B4 or Mitchell’sTowingLTD 39655 Government Road, Squamish BC For more info callMitchell’s Towing Ltdat604-982-0115. management@mitchellstowing ca

WAREHOUSELIENACT

The following vehicles will be sold, as per the WarehouseLien Act; 1. TheFollowing vehicle will be sold, 1988 CHEVROLET PICK UP 2500

VIN: IGCGR23K9JJ135034

Registered owner: Roberts Calum Patrick Debt amount as of April 1, 2024 is $4,382.17.

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www.serafinagardens.ca 604-984-4433contact Cari

SUDOKU

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE

1.SmallEurasian deer

4.Irishcounty

10.Amajordivision ofgeologicaltime

11.Broadwayactor Lane

12.Canadianprovince(abbr.)

14.Humangene

15.Two

16.Afamousone isblue

1.Makeupfor

2.Baltimore ballplayer

3.Salary

4.Influentialworld body

5.Engravers

6.Declaredasfact

7.Onewhosteals

8.Jewelry

9.Hospital employee(abbr.)

12.Nonsense (slang)

18.Utterrepeatedly

22.Ring-shaped objects

23.Spoils

24 Occurs

26.Commercial

27.Near

28.Productsyou mayneed

30.Pledgethrown downasachallenge

31.TVnetwork

13.TowninGalilee

17.Value

19.Afakename

20.Sheepintheir secondyear

21.TowninSurrey, England

25.Appropriatefor aparticulartime ofyear

29.Creativeworks

31.Recesses

32.W.Pacificisland group

34.Silkorcotton garments

36.SovietSocialist Republics

37.RetiredAmericanfootballcoach Dean

39.Hotdish

40.Atypeofgin

41.Atomic#84

42.Sawhorse

48.Aboutground 50.Medicineman

33.Tolkien character

35.Ancientsymbol co-optedbytheNazi party

38.Pioneer

41.Scribe

43.Paintedabright color

44.Lowest membersofBritish nobility

45.Actress Thurman

51.Seedlessraisin

52.Capitalof Albania

53.Appendage

54.OJtrialjudge

55.Bytheway (abbr.)

56.Bicycleparts

58.Barbie’sfriend

59.Movedone’s necktosee

60.Commercials

46.Typeofsugar

47.Crestofahill

49.N.American peopleofBritish Columbia

56.Device

57.TheMount RushmoreState

LIVEONYOURTERMS

atAmicaWestVancouver

What makesAmica WestVancouver different from otherseniorlivingresidences?

Well, that’s different foreveryone. Maybeit’sour rangeofpremium amenities andengaging social activities, or ourchef-prepared mealstosuitevery appetite. Or maybeit’sknowing youcan continue to livethe lifeyou’reaccustomed to,with professional support always availableifyou need it.LifeatAmica West Vancouver canbeexactly what youwantittobe. Andthat’sthe Amicadifference.

YOURDAY,YOURWAY

You’ve always lived life on your ownterms, spendingeachday exactlyasyou please That won’tchange once youmoveto AmicaWestVancouver.“Ourresidentsare continuing to livethe same amazing lives they lived at home,”saysRonnel Sordilla, Director of Wellness. “But nowtheyget to do it with an amazingcommunityof likemindedseniors,and awonderful team that’s here to support theirevery need.”

THEONLYSCHEDULEYOU’LL FOLLOWISYOURS

Whetherit’sjoiningin on activities such as movienights, creative workshops, social events andoutings,orrelaxingwitha good book by ourcozyfireplace,atAmica West Vancouver, youset your own schedule everyday

Unlikemanyother seniorsresidences, Amica’sflexible dining means youchoose

whereand when to enjoyyourmeals:inour diningroom,inour self-serve bistro,orin thecomfort of your suite. Youcan even host your family fordinnerinour beautifulprivate diningroom

We’reheretosupport youasyou continue to thrive.Comeand go as youplease, connect with friends andfamily,and foster newrelationships with otherresidents. At AmicaWestVancouver,every dayisyours

PEACEOFMIND,FORYOUAND YOURLOVEDONES

Youmay notrequire care today, butifyou need some support with daily living, from cleaning andcookingtoassistance with dressing or getting groceries,our team will always accommodate.“We’rehereto alleviatethe stress of daily living,”says Ronnel. “Our goal is to offer support while promotingthe independenceofour residents, so they canjustfocusondoing what they love.”

Andif, down theroad, youdorequirecare, know that you’ll always have access to the professional, personalized support you need in theprivacy of your suite, as well 24/7emergency support from ourLicenced PracticalNurse

We’d love to show youwhatyourlife couldbelikeatAmica West Vancouver. Experience theAmica differencefor yourself today.

To book atour, please call CelesteLee or ChristinaMintenko at 604-921-9181