Provincial parties tussle over Ironworkers Bridge replacement
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BRENT RICHTER
brichter@nsnews.com
Metro Vancouver staff are keeping a close eye on the Capilano Canyon after a rock slide sent debris into the river below Cleveland Dam.
The regional authority began receiving reports about the slide on Thursday afternoon, said Brant Arnold-Smith, division manager of protective services and emergency management.
“It’s an area that is well known to Metro Vancouver teams. We actively monitor it on an ongoing basis, because it historically has been an area where the canyon walls do shed rock from time to time,” he said. “Yesterday’s rockfall, although small, was larger in nature [than slides typically seen in the area].”
There are a number of natural factors that cause rock slides of that type to happen, Arnold-Smith said, including rain, freezing and thawing, erosion and root growth within the rock.
Arnold-Smith said the slide presented no danger to the dam itself and there is likely little risk to the public walking on any of Capilano River Regional Park’s trails.
“It’s an area that is very hard to get to and very
BRENT RICHTER
brichter@nsnews.com
The BC Conservatives are promising a replacement of the Ironworkers Memorial Second Narrows Crossing if elected.
Conservative leader John Rustad included the megaproject among a list of transportation priorities announced on Thursday.
According to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, there are about 40 years of life left on the existing bridge’s structure, however North Vancouver-Seymour Conservative candidate Samarth Chandola said residents feel the crossing is no longer sufficient.
“The No. 1 issue I kept hearing over and over and over again from residents, was something about the traffic has to be done and it starts with the bridge,” he said.
Chandola said they don’t have any specifics how many lanes the new bridge would be, but he is hoping for 10 lanes, plus the capacity for future transit.
“It all starts with a feasibility study, which is the first thing that we will be commissioning on what does make sense given the needs of the community,” he said.
Chandola acknowledged that simply increasing the capacity of the bridge would have impacts on traffic flows up and down the Highway 1 system, including its feeder routes, so he said their plan includes renewing outdated on- and offramps throughout the Lower Mainland.
There are no notional projections on what such projects would cost, but Chandola said they would be seeking matching funds from the federal government and they plan to free up finances by eliminating “existing bloat in the bureaucracy.”
North Vancouver-Seymour NDP
incumbent Susie Chant said she agrees that traffic and transportation are a North Shore priority. But the study that Conservatives are promising already began during the last term, she said.
“The NDP have been advancing this work for four years,” Chant said, noting that her government first funded the
Burrard Inlet Rapid Transit study in 2020 and is already currently looking at the best options for new crossings.
“We know that the bridge will need to be replaced in time. There’s no question about that, but it’s not something that is going to be done in the next three years on the turn of a dime,” she said. “This is a very easy thing to say, ‘Oh yes, we’ll get that done. But it is not something that can be taken lightly or done quickly in a way that doesn’t work for people. We need it to work for people.”
Chandola did acknowledge that some of the work has already begun, but he said there is a greater sense of urgency.
“I will commend them for that. I think they’re looking to solve the problems of a region and I think it’s great that the government finally got started on that, but they have had seven years to actually do something about it,” he said. “We promise to be more efficient than the government currently in power.”
Chant also cast doubt on whether Conservatives will be able make good on delivering highly complex infrastructure while also promising austerity budgets.
“I’m hearing John Rustad promising a lot of big projects, but he’s also saying that he’s going to cut budgets and reduce the deficit. So, I find it difficult to think that he’s going to be able to deliver on that.”
Previously, before he pulled BC United out of the campaign, Kevin Falcon also promised a replacement for the Ironworkers Bridge.
ABBY LUCIANO Contributing writer
The District of North Vancouver is seeking ideas from the community to “reimagine” the plaza at Lynn Valley Village.
The public space is anchored by the North Vancouver District Public Library’s Lynn Valley branch, and the district is trying to find ways to encourage better space utilization and create it as a place where people want to
spend more time.
“Our main goals are to encourage more retail traffic, enhanced use of the shared spaces, and create a destination where people want to congregate and spend time,” said Neonila Lilova, District of North Vancouver’s business and economic development manager.
Lilova says council directed staff to explore ways to enhance the utilization of the village in 2023, and the district is working
with a consultant to review the property and look at how the plaza and other public spaces are being used.
The Lynn Valley Village public space was created in its current form at the intersection of Lynn Valley Road and Mountain Highway in 2007. The space offers 42,000 square feet of retail and office space, an outdoor plaza and a community room, according to the district’s website.
The district is asking people for new ideas that would “enhance the appeal and vibrancy” of the village, including the community room as well as the sidewalks and roadways surrounding the area.
“The survey is a first step in finding out what the community would like to see in the space,” Lilova said.
Based on the survey findings, Lilova said the district will engage with local businesses
and residents to come up with specific and realistic improvements. The information will then be incorporated into an analysis and presented to council. People can head to the District of North Vancouver’s website to take the survey until Oct. 20.
Abby Luciano is a freelance writer at the North Shore News who resides in Surrey. She can be reached at abby.luciano@hotmail. com
BRENT RICHTER brichter@nsnews.com
Hear something go boom?
Explosives contractors working for the Department of National Defence have found two more unexploded bombs on the Blair Rifle Range lands and called in the military to detonate them.
Unexploded ordnance (UXO) teams have been working to clear the former military training site between the Blueridge neighbourhood and Northlands Golf Course on and off since 2018.
On Sept. 26, contractors unearthed an Mk36 grenade.
“DND’s military ordnance disposal team was contacted to handle the safe disposal of the item and to ensure public safety,” a statement from National Defence read. “Once the military disposal team arrives on-site, they assess whether the item is safe to move and can be taken off-site for disposal or if it is unstable, in which case a controlled on-site detonation is the safest method.”
That was the fifth time since the search began in 2018 that an item had to be detonated. The explosives disposal experts were back again on Oct. 2 after crews found a three-inch mortar shell with high explosives inside a day earlier.
Nearby resident Darren Broder was startled by the blast early Thursday morning.
“I thought, OK, what the hell was that?” he said. “It sounded like thunder but abbreviated. It was loud like a gunshot.”
Once he determined no one was in danger and everything in the house was
fine, Broder logged onto a local Reddit page online and learned that it was DND’s crews at work.
The area is very popular with hikers and mountain bikers, Broder said. Everyone in the neighbourhood knows some of the history of the lands, but the thought of bombs remaining buried in the soil is never usually top of mind.
“But I guess with the with them finding unexploded ordnances, it becomes more real,” he said.
UXO contractors with metal detectors have picked up more than 400 kilograms of munition remnants from the area, including mortar shells, grenade components, practice rounds and paraflares.
Anyone who spots a potential UXO is advised to not touch it, immediately leave the area the way they came in and call 911. Although unlikely to go off on their own, it is possible if they are disturbed and the mortar shells are designed to be lethal within 10 metres, according to the government.
Because of that risk, no one should be digging or starting fires anywhere on the Blair Rifle Range lands.
The current sweep for explosives is scheduled to last until March 2025, with the team focusing their search on the areas south of Larkhall Crescent and east of Dresden Way. That will require rotating trail closures to keep the public back and allow them to safely do their work.
“DND would like to thank the community for their ongoing patience,” the statement read.
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BRENT RICHTER brichter@nsnews.com
The BC NDP is promising to fully fund a bus rapid transit line from Park Royal to Metrotown, if elected.
North Vancouver-Lonsdale NDP incumbent Bowinn Ma made the announcement alongside her fellow North Shore candidates Susie Chant and Sara Eftekhar on Oct. 1.
Such a transit line was identified as a priority by the TransLink Mayors’ Council in 2022, but currently it does not have the funding needed to start construction in 2025.
Ma said the NDP would be prepared to spend the estimated $500 million required for the bus rapid transit line, which she said should rival the capacity, speed, reliability the efficiency of an LRT line but at a fraction of the cost.
“The public transit system is incredibly important to us here, but it does not currently deliver the level of reliability and consistency that a lot of people require in order to make the choice to get onto public transit and leave their cars at home,” she said. “That lack of options is incredibly challenging for people. Well, it’s high time for that to change.”
Before construction of that system is
complete, Ma said an NDP government would extend the current R2 RapidBus from Phibbs Exchange to Metrotown, giving commuters an express connection to the SkyTrain system. And she added the government will continue the work already begun on planning an eventual fixed-link rapid
transit system across Burrard Inlet and replacement of the Ironworkers Memorial Second Narrows Crossing.
The NDP’s announcement came on the same day as a TransLink Mayors’ Council press conference in North Vancouver “sounding the alarm” about impending cuts
to transit.
City of North Vancouver Mayor Linda Buchanan said the NDP’s announcement for bus rapid transit was “welcome,” but she quickly added a caveat.
“The fact remains, TransLink is facing a $600 million per year structural deficit, and no new funding has been committed by the provincial government after 2025,” she said.
District of North Vancouver Mayor Mike Little said the amount of revenue TransLink gets from the regional gas tax has been dropping as consumers transition toward electric vehicles. And despite ridership increasing since the pandemic, fare revenues are still less than they were.
Without more reliable sources of funding for the transit system, the mayors raised the spectre of reducing bus frequency to every 30 minutes or cutting off service entirely after 8 p.m. If those cuts were to happen across the region, it would result in a 20-percent increase in vehicle traffic, the Mayors’ Council estimates.
“I want to be clear, this is not a stunt. This is fact. This is real. Anyone living on the North Shore knows traffic congestion has reached a tipping point,” Buchanan said.
BRENT RICHTER brichter@nsnews.com
North Vancouver RCMP are warning the public and seeking tips after three sexual assaults on women in the Lower Lonsdale area.
Investigators issued a press release and video of a suspect on Oct. 2 following the assaults, which took place in September.
In all three cases, the victims were approached by strangers who groped them and then ran off, according to police. It’s not clear, however, if they are dealing with one, two or three different suspects.
Around 9 p.m. on Sept. 9, a man riding an e-bike groped a woman while she was walking on the 300 block of East Keith Road. There were two bystanders – a man and a woman – who witnessed the assault and chased the suspect, according to police. Investigators are hoping those witnesses will come forward as they may have information that could advance the investigation.
In that case, police describe the suspect as a white man, standing five-foot-11 with a muscular build. He was wearing baggy shorts and a baggy peach-coloured tank top at the time.
Just before 2 p.m. on Sept. 19, police received another report of a sexual assault involving a man riding an e-bike. The incident happened on the Spirit Trail between Ridgeway Avenue and Moody Avenue in Moodyville. Officers canvassed the neighbourhood and found CCTV footage of the suspect on his bike, which they have released to the public.
On Sept. 23 at 8:45 p.m., a woman running southbound
North Vancouver RCMP released this CCTV image of a suspect wanted in a Sept. 19 sexual assault on a woman.
on the west side of the 700 block of Chesterfield Avenue was groped from behind by a suspect who was walking behind her, police said. The suspect is described as a South Asian man in his 30s, standing six-feet tall with an athletic build and short dark hair. He was wearing a dark-coloured sleeveless shirt, dark shorts and headphones at the time. He was last seen running east toward Victoria Park, according to the release.
“Investigators are working diligently on all three cases,” said Const. Mansoor Sahak, North Vancouver RCMP spokesperson. “Although there appear to be similarities in each incident, investigators are not ruling out that there might be three different suspects. Over the last month, extensive efforts have been made by serious crime investigators to identify any suspects. We are now at the point where we’re seeking public assistance to help further these investigations.”
Anyone with information about any of the assaults is asked to call North Vancouver RCMP at 604-985-1311.
Whether it’s conjuring up an image on demand or summarizing a lengthy report, AI gets a lot of attention and praise these days.
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We have crossed the half-way point of the election campaign, and both main political parties appear to have landed on what they hope is the ballot box “question” on voting day.
For the BC NDP, the question is “who would make the best premier?”
For the BC Conservatives, the question is “is it time for a change?”
Both questions play well for each party. NDP leader David Eby leads BC. Conservative leader John Rustad when it comes to polls that ask respondents about approval ratings and personal attributes about the two leaders. If “who would make the best premier” is the dominant question that decides most votes, Eby and the NDP clearly have the advantage.
But several polls have also shown
consistent findings that more than half the electorate doesn’t like the direction the province has been heading, which could explain the BC Conservatives’ rapid rise in public opinion.
Of course, these “change” elections do not happen very often in this province.
The last real “change” outcome was back in 2001, when the BC Liberals almost wiped out a discredited and spent NDP government that had governed the previous decade. We had a change of government after
the 2017 election, but that was not a classic “change” election since the incumbent BC Liberal government actually received more votes and won more seats than any other party.
There have only been four other “change” elections in the past 70 years:
• 1991, when the scandal-plagued Social Credit Party was decimated by the electorate;
• 1975, when the short-lived NDP government was turfed out of office;
• 1972, when the 20-year reign of Social Credit Premier W.A.C. Bennett was ended decisively in favour of the NDP; and
• 1952, when the fledgling Social Credit Party formed a minority government to replace a Coalition Party that had fallen apart.
In each of the previous “change”
elections, the ruling party fell victim to a “throw the bums” mentality because it had overstayed its welcome or had become quite unpopular.
Given the NDP’s continuing ride at or near the top of the polls, it is unlikely either of those sentiments has taken hold today. However, the NDP has also been in power for seven years and at some point, the voters grow weary of those in charge. The first Social Credit government lasted 20 years in office, while the second one under that party lasted almost 16 years. The NDP lasted 10 years in power during the 1990s, while the B.C. Liberals stayed at the helm for 16 years. Is having a political party in charge for seven years long enough to create that “change” narrative? Rustad and his party
Dear Editor:
North Vancouver Football Club has seen considerable growth since the pandemic. This fall season, NVFC, the North Shore’s largest sports organization, registered 3,800 players across all age groups. It was a new record for the organization and a 10-per-cent increase over last season.
Including girls and women, the numbers are 6,700 players annually in North Vancouver. Currently we rank third amongst all Lower Mainland municipalities in the number of youth soccer players, but dead last as a ratio of turf fields to registered players. The addition of Inter River next year will not change this.
Overall across the DNV and CNV, 23 per cent of NVFC players still practice on gravel equally dispersed across both municipalities. Teams lucky enough to practice on turf have had their time slots reduced to one hour in many cases, such is the demand. On some evenings, there as many as eight teams, up to 96 players, on a single field, making it almost impossible to conduct a proper practice.
Meanwhile, population growth on the North Shore continues. According to Statistics Canada, in the five years leading up to 2023, the number of people on the North Shore grew 7.4 per cent. Housing units and new home starts in the CNV alone are expected to reach 17,000 over the next 10 years, as reported in the North Shore News on March 1, 2024. Demand for recreational space and suitable playing fields will only increase.
Currently there are only three turf fields in the City of North Vancouver. Carson Graham and Sutherland do not even have benches for teams to sit on. The CNV has not even entertained a discussion on fields since the Fenn Burdett conversion in 2017. The
DNV must continue to include turf conversions in its financial plan. In less than two years, the World Cup will be here. Demand to play soccer will only increase. The time for councils to act is now.
Stuart Ince President, NVFC
Dear Editor:
RE: Once Told He May Never Walk Again, North Van Man Now Strides 3 km A Day, Oct. 2 story
Ben Birkin is such an inspiration to me and it seems to many others.
For myself, he motivates me to push myself even more as I was diagnosed with OA (osteoarthritis) a number of years ago. However, like Ben, I do not ‘own’ this so-called autoimmune disorder. I agree with him that sometimes you need to ignore well-intentioned advice. I say that in part as I was told by a certain medical professional that I would likely need an operation due to limited movement in one of my limbs after a fracture. However, I didn’t “take that on,” as I wished to avoid surgery. Thus, I pursued physiotherapy which drastically increased my range of motion to near 100 per cent at the time. To this day, it is 100 per cent.
I’m not saying NOT to pay attention to medical professionals, by the way. There are times, however, when you need to trust your intuition and push yourself to your limits.
I also changed my eating behaviour about a year after the diagnosis. As a result, I lost about 30 pounds, to the point where I rarely if at all felt pain or noticed inflammation. I’ve also utilized different healing modalities such as chiropractic, physiotherapy and massage.
I wish I had done that sooner as perhaps I would have overcome OA.
Elly Stornebrink North Vancouver
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are clearly banking on this being the case in enough key ridings to propel them to power. As much as he unveils planks of his own platform, Rustad continues to paint a picture of a province he says has become more dangerous, chaotic and expensive under the NDP’s watch. He did that in last week’s radio debate on CKNW, when he referenced “people dying” from street violence and drug use and tied it to a “broken” health care system.
Eby is trying to paint Rustad as a far-right wing politician with extreme and wacky views, and in so doing is trying to frame his opponent as a man not up to the top job in the province.
Best premier? Or time for a change? We’re more than half-way there, and the final question (and answer) remains far from clear.
Keith Baldrey is chief political reporter for Global BC. Keith.Baldrey@globalnews.ca
WRONG PEDAL
BRENT RICHTER brichter@nsnews.com
North Vancouver RCMP say a driver suffered minor injuries after she drove her SUV through a Central Lonsdale pharmacy window on Friday.
The incident happened at Remedy’s Rx drugstore on 16th street at Lonsdale Avenue around 10:30 a.m.
As of Friday afternoon, the investigation
was still ongoing, but the RCMP said it appears the elderly woman at the wheel of a white G Series Mercedes mistook the brake pedal for the gas.
Paramedics were called to treat the driver who had minor injuries. No pedestrians or bystanders were hurt.
On Sept. 11, a driver in West Vancouver crashed through the Caulfeild Village B.C. Liquor Store.
‘OPERATION TRASH PANDA’
ABBY LUCIANO Contributing writer
Saving a family of raccoons from a trash bin was not a call the North Vancouver RCMP expected to receive earlier this week. But when nature calls, sometimes you have to answer.
North Vancouver RCMP spokesperson Const. Mansoor Sahak said that just before 7 a.m. on Sept. 29, the detachment received a call about a family of raccoons trapped in a dumpster behind a construction site on the 200 block of East 13th Street. Two officers went into rescue mode, creating a makeshift ramp for the raccoons to use to climb out.
about animals, Sahak said, but raccoons are unusual. The detachment dubbed the rescue Operation Trash Panda.
“The entire family was able to make it out successfully without anybody getting hurt,” Sahak said. “[It’s] just a cute success story that we decided to put out, letting the public know beyond the day-to-day crime-fighting that we usually do or responding to calls, sometimes we get to assist animals.”
North Vancouver RCMP made a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Thursday morning to show people they are out in the community, but also going above and beyond on the job.
RCMP members are used to getting calls
“Certainly, rescuing raccoons is not in the job description, but it’s something that these officers took it upon themselves to do,” he said, adding that it was a rewarding day on the job. “You’re saving raccoons from being killed.”
Abby Luciano is a freelance writer at the North Shore News who resides in Surrey. She can be reached at abby.luciano@hotmail. com
BRENT RICHTER brichter@nsnews.com
Jason and Jerry Song are a force of nature, bordering on becoming a force for change.
The high-energy 17-year-old identical twins from West Vancouver are on a mission to get their teenage peers not just engaged, but voting by the age of 16.
The pair are producing a youth-oriented politics podcast and serving as local heads of an international campaign to lower the voting age.
Their love of politics began at a young age when they were learning about public speaking and the art of debate. In Grade 10, they began volunteering at West VancouverSunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country Liberal MP Patrick Weiler’s constituency office where they found themselves on the front line of hearing about issues that mattered to their neighbours.
“It really got us seeing how important the policy made on Parliament Hill really is for everyone, and specifically youth,” said Jerry. “And it really got us thinking: Why are there not more youth voices at the table or young people really engaged in politics?”
The Songs opted to take up the cause themselves, adopting the technology of their peers. In June, they launched TwinTalk Politics, a podcast and YouTube series in which they expertly raise the issues of young people with elected officials.
Although they have their own almost-but-not-completely-identical views, the podcast is strictly non-partisan. To date, they’ve recorded episodes with 21
MPs, from five different provinces and four different parties.
Before they do their interviews, the Songs do thorough research and come to the table with an encyclopedic knowledge of the MP’s bills, motions, positions and backgrounds. The identical twins break the ice by quizzing the honourable elected member on which Song is which. (About 60 to 70 per cent manage to answer correctly,
they estimate.)
Jason said they were surprised to see just how accommodating and open the busy MPs have been for “angsty 17-year-olds.”
The response to the podcast has been even more rewarding, they agreed.
“We’re constantly getting emails through our website saying, ‘Oh my god, your podcast is so cool. I love what you’re doing,”
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Assessment.
Jason said. “Teachers have been following along watching episodes. So have our peers. It’s really, really rewarding and really, really cool to see so many people tuning in and really caring about youth issues.”
Raising teen issues and getting young people plugged in is one thing. But Canada’s political systems leave them disenfranchised at a critical time, the Songs said.
Because teens under 18 can’t vote, political parties do not tailor policies to their concerns. This instills apathy, which leads to further disenchantment – a negative feedback loop.
“[Youth] are so passionate. They have so many ideas on how to forward motions, how to change the world,” Jason said. “But oftentimes, their voices are pushed down and not cared about for arbitrary reasons they can’t control.... This means that they’re less interested in Canadian politics. As a result, they’re less likely to vote. They’re less likely to think that the government cares about them. And this has such huge ramifications in the future of Canada.”
The two appeared before West Vancouver council on Sept. 30 asking elected members to officially endorse the Vote16 campaign. In their rapid-fire presentation, Jerry and Jason rattled off studies and stats underscoring the case that 16-year-olds have the mental maturity for the responsibility of voting and pointed to examples around the world where
BLOOD MEMORIES
SEPTEMBER 18 - OCTOBER 13
SILK PURSE ARTS CENTRE
Kahkewistahaw artist James Groening, aka Blue Sky, a child of the Sixtes Scoop, reconnects with his Indigenous roots through expressive & colourful paintings of legends & teachings he’s learned on his journey. For more info: westvanartscouncil.ca
ARTMANIA'S - MINI MOORE SCULPTURE WORKSHOP
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
OCTOBER 15TH, 6:30 P.M. - 8 P.M.
SILK PURSE ARTS CENTRE
Join us as a family to create your own sculptures inspired by Henry Moore's unique forms. Using simple materials like wire, mesh and paint, you will explore abstract shapes and organic curves.
For more info: westvanartscouncil.ca
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BIG BOOK SALE
OCTOBER 18 - 20
LYNN VALLEY PUBLIC LIBRARY
Find something special at the Friends of the Library book sale while supporting special projects at NVDPL! Explore a great selection of books, DVDs, CDs & more for all ages! Most items are under $2 For more info: www.nvdpl.ca
Events listed here are supported by the North Shore News. Check out more listings on North Shore’s online event calendar: nsnews.com/local-events
ThePolygon Gallery 101 CarrieCates Court Territories of theSquamishand Tsleil-WaututhNatons, andthe Musqueam Band @polygongallery |thepolygon.ca
HAMID JAFARI
Contributing writer
Between love and duty stands Massoud Karimaei, an IranianCanadian calligrapher and engineer.
He was recently honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal, one of four from North Vancouver to receive the award.
Born and raised in Iran, Karimaei learned the art of calligraphy from his father at a young age. Despite working in construction project management, his heart remains devoted to calligraphy, which he continues to nurture as a hobby and a cultural contribution.
“My father had excellent handwriting, and when I was a child, he taught me calligraphy,” he said. “It feels like calligraphy is in our family’s DNA.”
Karimaei officially began learning the art more than four decades ago, in 1981.
“My father enrolled me in a calligraphy class. However, calligraphy is not my profession; it’s more of a hobby,” he explained.
Despite his passion for calligraphy, he pursued a different career, holding a master’s degree in construction project management and working in investment, development, and management in construction projects as a licensed builder.
His work and his hobby provide balance
in his life, he said.
“Today, my approach to construction projects is influenced by the delicacy of calligraphy.”
After immigrating to Canada, he found more time to focus on his hobby. In 2008, he successfully registered the Iranian Calligraphers Association of North America (ICANA) in Vancouver, which became the first and only official ICA representative in North America.
“We began holding calligraphy classes on the North Shore,” he said. “It took time for people to become familiar with them, but the students found the courses rewarding. At the end of each program, after passing exams, they would receive a certificate. Additionally, by identifying Iranian calligraphy artists across North America, we were able to expand our classes.”
Soon, artists from other fields in Iran also reached out, proposing courses in Persian storytelling, music, and acting. Since 2010, the space originally designated for teaching calligraphy has evolved into a center for enthusiasts of various other arts.
“At the Persian Culture and Art Institute (PERCAI), we held a storytelling class with Mohammad Mohammadali, one of our most successful courses over the past decade’” said Karimaei. “He trained many
Continued on A15
talented writers.”
Mohammadali passed away at the age of 75 in Vancouver on Sept. 14, 2023. He authored dozens of novels and short stories in Farsi.
Saeed Farajpuri and Parviz Nazakti, both prominent figures in traditional Iranian music, encouraged Karimaei to establish PERCAI.
“We also conducted an acting class led by Mahtab Nasirpour, an Iranian actress, and Mohammad Rahmanian, an Iranian director. Some of the students have since pursued acting careers in Iran,” Karimaei added. This continued until 2020 when COVID-19 hit the world.
“After the restrictions were lifted, I focused more on construction projects, but calligraphy classes continue to be taught by other instructors,” he said.
He mentioned that students from various communities, including American, Chinese, Indian, Pakistani, Afghan, and Canadian, have been learning the art of calligraphy at the institute.
In addition to his work with the association and the institute, he has been an active member of the board of directors of the Society of Iranian Canadian Professionals of British Columbia (SICAP).
At a ceremony held in September at The Polygon Gallery, North Vancouver-Lonsdale MLA Bowinn Ma presented him with the Coronation Medal, an honour commemorating the crowning of His Majesty King Charles III. The medal was launched by Governor General Mary Simon, and was awarded to 30,000 people who have made significant contributions across Canada.
The North Vancouver recipients also included Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) Elder Xele’milh-Doris Paul, former City of North Vancouver mayor Darrell Mussatto, and Mike Danks, fire chief for the District of North Vancouver and former North Shore Rescue team leader.
When MLA Bowinn Ma contacted him about the award, Karimaei initially declined.
“I said there are many deserving individuals in the Iranian community, and I even suggested some names, but there was no possibility of replacement.”
Hamid Jafari is a Vancouver-based freelance journalist who writes about the Iranian community in Canada, art, culture, and social media trends. He has done two placements with the North Shore News that were supported by New Canadian Media. itshamidjafari@gmail.com
Sat, Nov2 | 7:30 p.m. GrosvenorTheatre
TICKET S: $55 | $52 | Under30 $2 9
Juno -award winningduo carvea path throughblues , jazz ,jumpjive, folk ,count ry,s wing ,and Indigenous soul –wi th specialg uest s Darc yPhillips and Paul Pigat .
Sun, Nov3 | 3p.m. GrosvenorTheatre
TICKET S: $4 2 | $39 | Under30 $19
Violinis t VanessaMarcoux andpianist Marie- ChristinePoirier performa rich tapestry of classicalreper toire, traditionalmelodies andoriginalcompositions.
ABBY LUCIANO
Contributing writer
North Vancouver’s most famous hiking trail, the Grouse Grind, is now closed and will remain that way for the next several weeks for maintenance and upgrade work.
Crews will work on multiple sections repairing and replacing steps, stairs and retaining walls to keep the trail in shape, according to a Metro Vancouver media advisory.
“The Grouse Grind Trail must be closed during these upgrades because the terrain where the work is taking place is steep and hazardous and detours are not possible,” the media advisory said, adding that visitors are urged to stay off the trail to avoid serious injury and delays in reopening.
Hikers, however, will still be able to go up the mountain, as the BCMC Trail and the Baden-Powell Trail will be open during the closure.
The BCMC route is similar to the Grouse Grind in length and elevation, however it is more “rugged.” Metro Vancouver recommends anyone choosing to hike this route to wear hiking shoes with good ankle support, carry lots of water and a snack, as well as bringing an extra layer of clothing for warmth.
The Grouse Grind attracts roughly 250,000 visitors each year and sees the most traffic in the summer and spring months, the media advisory said.
In the spring, Metro Vancouver completed large upgrades to the Grind, including a new trailhead and amenities such as new seating, a
water fountain, stretching bars and better access for first responders. The Grouse Grind will
reopen Nov. 4 if weather permits, the media advisory said.
Abby Luciano is a freelance
writer at the North Shore News who resides in Surrey. She can be reached at abby. luciano@hotmail.com
PRELIMINARYPUBLICCONSULTATION MEETING PROPOSED HERITAGE REVITALIZATION AGREEMENT
PRIOR TO SUBMITTING ADEVELOPMENT APPLICATION, RYAN ALWARD DESIGN IS HOSTINGANIN-PERSONPRELIMINARY PUBLIC CONSULTATION MEETINGFOR PROPOSED WORK AT 5768 LARSON PLACE IN EAGLE HABOUR: -HERITAGEPROTECTION/RESTORATION OF “STEWART-LOUGHHOUSE” -SUB-DIVISIONOFPROPERTY -NEW INFILL HOUSE
DATE &TIME: 15 OCTOBER 2024 @5:30-6:30PM
LOCATION: WEST VANCOUVER MEMORIAL LIBRARY,WELSH HALL 1950 MARINE DRIVE WEST VANCOUVER FORMAT: 15 MINUTE PRESENTATIONFOLLOWEDBYQ&A
The Rotary Club of Lions Gate is hosting a monthly series of Lunch & Learn sessions for Seniors at the Silver Harbour Centre.
The informative sessions will be conducted by experts from the North Shore Senior Services Circle covering aspects of wellness, independence, safety and personal finance - topics that are important and valuable to Seniors on the North Shore.
Each session will be followed by a free Hot Lunch and each attendee can take home up to two additional free entrees - one for themselves and one for a senior friend or neighbour who could not attend the session.
Attendance is strictly by registration only. Space is limited. Please call Silver Harbour at 604.980.2474 to book your spot.
Ear & Eye Health – Wed, Oct 23rd
registration full, waitlist only
Dr. Solamita Avanessian - CURA EyeCare
Sarah McCarthy - Hearing Life
Planning for the Future – Wed, Nov 27th
registration full, waitlist only
Mike Beishuizen - Westcoast Wills & Estates
ABBY LUCIANO Contributing writer
One of Vancouver’s most famous doughnut shops is planning to open another location, this time in North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale neighbourhood.
Fans of the beloved Lee’s Donuts can expect the new location to open up this winter at 100-124 West First St., two blocks away from Lonsdale Quay.
For several months, the windows of the closed storefront have been plastered with advertisements for “Hula Hoop Combat Training,” though that now seems to have been a ruse hinting at the circular treats that are on the way.
“Fans can look forward to indulging in their favorite classic and seasonal donut varieties at this new location, adding a tasty addition to the already thriving area,” said Jigs Dimaculangan, Lee’s Donuts brand manager.
Lee’s first opened its doors at Vancouver’s Granville Island Public Market in 1979, and has grown since then with eight locations throughout the Lower Mainland,
confirmed it will open a new North Vancouver location in a spot that for several months has been cheekily advertising Hula Hoop Combat Training. LEE’S DONUTS
including new locations at Vancouver International Airport earlier this month and at Willowbrook Mall in Langley last year. The North Vancouver shop is slated to open this winter, and the North Shore News will update when an official date comes out. To check out other Lee’s Donuts locations, visit leesdonuts.ca
Abby Luciano is a freelance writer at the North Shore News who resides in Surrey. She can be reached at abby.luciano@hotmail.com
ABBY LUCIANO
Contributing writer
When CJ Summers headed to Ukraine last month, he didn’t really know what to expect.
“You’re not too sure what you’re stepping into,” Summers said about travelling to the war-torn country. “The organization prepared us as best they could.”
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The organization in question is Firefighter Aid Ukraine (FFAU), and Summers is one of the two District of North Vancouver firefighters who is back home now after travelling to Ukraine on a 12-day mission teaching dozens of students rope rescue skills.
The experience changed his perspective on his job as a firefighter, he said.
“We were doing some very technical things that students might never have
seen before,” Summers said. “But it was eye opening.... It’s one of the most difficult things to accomplish a task or teach
something when different areas in Ukraine don’t have the same equipment to accomplish that task.”
Summers and fellow firefighter Ryan Svendsen went to the country as part of a partnership with FFAU, a non-profit organization that works with state emergency services and volunteer brigades in Ukraine.
The two trained and worked with more than 60 students in three cohorts from different parts of Ukraine, Summers said, going through challenging scenarios such as residential training in abandoned buildings and mountain rescues, including going down cliffs and doing highlines.
Earlier this summer the fire department fundraised for their mission and to cover the costs of brand-new gear and equipment for firefighters in Ukraine. This year $10,000 was raised through the Firefighter Charitable Society and sent to FFAU, according to firefighter and Afghanistan war veteran Jared Reynolds.
Harnesses, different rigging mechanisms like clutches and captos, ropes and other types of safety gear were brought over, Summers said, and the country’s national emergency service now has the gear.
Summers said he was able to bond with
some of the students during their training days, connecting with them on Instagram to stay in touch.
But on the second day Summers returned to Canada, he saw on the news that a strike was carried out in Sumy, Ukraine, and messaged one of his students to make sure he was safe.
His student was safe, but the moment made Summers think about his position.
“We get to come back to relative safety, and they’re still in Ukraine, doing a job that’s way more dangerous than what we do on this end,” he said. “It’s just so humbling, but so incredible to work with some of the strongest people I’ve ever met.”
Now that the two firefighters are back home, Summers says the District of North Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services alongside with the City of Edmonton’s Fire Rescue Services are continuing to collect funds for the FFAU.
“We did our little bit in trying to help them train, understand and bring over some gear that will hopefully save not only their lives, but the lives of people that they’re trying to save every single day.” Abby Luciano is a freelance writer at the North Shore News who resides in Surrey. She can be reached at abby.luciano@hotmail. com
Pre-orders and payment must be made by phone, email or in person by Friday Oct 11th. Pick up in store on Saturday Oct 12th.
dangerous because of the steep canyon walls,” he said.
The biggest threat the slide poses is environmental. There was a much larger slide at the same site decades ago. As more debris comes down on top of it, there is a risk that it could choke the Capilano off, which would devastate the fish habitat below.
Metro alerted the Capilano River Hatchery staff, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the provincial Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship as well as the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation).
“We confirmed that water was flowing, which was the great news,” he said.
In the event of a full blockage, Metro could release more water from Cleveland Dam. That could have consequences for the Capilano Reservoir, which is just now beginning to refill after the summer’s drought, but Arnold-Smith said it’s something they were prepared to do.
“It wasn’t fully blocked, but we were very keen to take swift action to ensure that water would continue to flow downstream, so that the salmon habitat would be protected,” he said.
Metro Vancouver has brought in geotechnical engineers to assess the stability of the cliff face where the rocks fell, as well as the growing pile of debris at the bottom.
“Even though it’s not affecting river flow, presently, our concern is there could be another rockfall that could fall in and totally block the river, so we want to be proactive and mitigate that from happening,” he said.
While there likely isn’t much they can do to prevent more naturally occurring rock slides from happening, they will be looking at ways of removing some of the existing rock debris from the canyon.
“That is the challenge. And our teams are currently doing assessments and
working with our environmental experts as well as geotechnical engineers to figure that out,” he said. “A big part of emergency management is mitigation and identifying hazard risks and vulnerabilities before the emergency happens.”
The event has been a reminder that the Capilano River can be an inherently dangerous place, Arnold-Smith added.
“It’s one of our most beautiful parks in the Lower Mainland and it’s visited by hundreds of thousands of people every year, and we really want to make sure that visitors and tourists who are visiting the park understand,” he said. “It’s ever changing and sometimes an unpredictable force of nature, and you need to respect that river and tall canyon walls and be very aware of the risks.”
Areyou or your lovedone in distress?
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Connect withPACT— Peer Assisted Care Team
PACT is amobile,community-led team that responds to crisis calls relatedto mental health or substanceuse.Weprovide culturally sensitiveand traumainformed support to individualsand families (ages13+) on theNorth Shore. We respondtocalls relatedtothoughtsofsuicide,self-harm,family challenges, substanceuse,lossofreality, hopelessness, isolation, fear,and anxiety
Call: 1-888-261-7228
Text:778-839-1831
Email: pact@cmhanorthshore.ca
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If someone is in immediatedanger, please call 9-1-1.
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ABBY LUCIANO
Contributing writer
Maya Hickling was only taught about mental health when she had to grapple with it.
In the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, 16-year-old Hickling began struggling with anxiety, experiencing panic attacks, feeling depressed and overwhelmed with the pressures of what to do after high school.
As Hickling sat in her Grade 10 careerlife education class, she was learning about how to pay a BC Hydro bill or planning for retirement, but how could Hickling begin to think about life after high school with this weight on her shoulders? Hickling hoped a conversation about mental health would come up in her class, but it never really did.
“It almost felt like a dangerous bad word: it felt like everything to describe mental health was talked about and not addressed,” Hickling said. “It frustrated me, because I can’t plan for retirement if I don’t make it to retirement.”
So Hickling began educating herself, and sought a therapist with the help of her parents. Hickling was able to overcome her challenges, but now worries for people
who don’t have the finances to get the help they need.
In June, 19-year-old Hickling gave a TEDx Talk speaking of her struggles at Capilano University, where she is studying acting for theatre, film and television.
After her experience, Hickling is taking actions into her own hands by pleading for integrating mental health education in school curricula.
Oct. 10 marks World Mental Health Day
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Continued from A24
– marking awareness and global advocacy of mental health annually around the world by the World Federation for Mental Health since 1992. This year’s theme surrounds mental health at work – creating safe work environments, working conditions and work-life balance.
But labour can come in many shapes and forms, including students in the classroom.
Hickling found most high school students spend roughly 30 hours a week in school, approximately six hours a day. This means in a 180-day school year, students spend around 1,080 hours in school, with some surveys suggesting the average time spent on homework is four to five hours a week.
This doesn’t take into account working a part-time job on top, taking extra-curriculars or spending time with friends. That’s why Hickling wants to advocate for having mental health talked about more in schools and be a voice in ending the stigma surrounding it.
The B.C. government announced in 2019 investing $8.9 million to boost mental health supports until 2022. But students like Hickling aren’t seeing the benefits of that funding, she said.
Hickling has been looking deeper into the school curriculum by researching and talking to different people in the community, and filling in the gaps on how mental health can be more ingrained into high school education systems.
She has had conversations with people from her high school, but also Bowinn Ma, MLA for North Vancouver-Lonsdale, on how to go about this advocate work. “The biggest thing that I’m doing is just being open and talking about it,” Hickling said. “It currently is just me and my networking to try and find a way within schools.”
Stigma around mental health is a massive crisis, and people don’t realize how many lives we are losing to mental illness, said Hickling. The World Health Organization estimates one person dies by suicide every 40 seconds.
Hickling continues working on ways to advocate for better mental health resources. She says that posting online to share stories and knowledge and watching shows or movies that talk about mental health are great ways in trying to end the stigma surrounding it.
“For something to be so universal yet so not addressed doesn’t make sense,” she said. “It’s a need to normalize conversations, normalize getting help.”
With the suppor t of a compassionate and understanding counsellor, you can develop coping skills, gain new perspectives, and feel empowered to make positive changes in your life.
Life is weird, let’s talk. Life can hurt, let’s heal.
www.healingspaces.center | @healingspaces.center kelsey@healingspaces.center | 778-860-3120
For the past 20 years, our team at the North Shore Stress and Anxiety Clinic has been offering compassionate and effective assessments and interventions for adults, parents, children, teens, couples, and families. Our diverse team has grown to over 30 psychologists who have the training and expertise to provide you with the support you need and high-quality therapy that works.
We are accepting new clients and no physician referral is required. We have recently expanded our team, so most adults seeking treatment can be matched to a psychologist within a few weeks. Services are available in person or by secure videoconferencing.
To book an appointment call us at 604-985-3939 or email us at
WHEN: 7 p.m. October 21, 2024
WHERE: Municipal Hall Council Chamber, 750 17th Street and via Webex (electronic communication facilities)
Proposed Zoning Bylaw Amendment for Short-term Rental Accommodation
SYNOPSIS OF THE PROPOSED BYLAW: A public hearing will be held regarding proposed Zoning Bylaw No 4662, 2010, Amendment Bylaw No 5356, 2024
SUBJECT LANDS: All zoned lands in the District of West Vancouver where residential uses are permitted.
PROPOSED ZONING BYLAW NO 4662, 2010, AMENDMENT BYLAW NO 5356, 2024: Would enable short-term rental (STR) accommodation in a dwelling unit, limited to a host’s principal residence (the place where the host usually lives) Where a secondary or detached secondary suite is permitted (e.g a basement suite and/or coach house), STR is limited to one of: the primary dwelling unit, or secondary suite, or detached secondary suite.
QUESTIONS: Linda Gillan, Senior Community Planner – Economic Development | LGillan@westvancouver.ca | 604-921-3448
SYNOPSIS OF THE PROPOSED BYLAW: A public hearing will be held regarding proposed Zoning Bylaw No 4662, 2010, Amendment Bylaw No 5347, 2024
PROPOSED ZONING BYLAW NO.
4662, 2010, AMENDMENT BYLAW NO.
5347, 2024: Would add cannabis retail to the Ambleside Centre 1 zone for 1453 Bellevue Avenue to allow the existing cannabis retail store to operate in perpetuity. The existing store is currently in operation under an approved temporary use permit.
QUESTIONS: Megan Roberts, Assistant Planner maroberts@westvancouver.ca | 604-921-3453
SYNOPSIS OF THE PROPOSED BYLAW: A public hearing will be held regarding proposed Zoning Bylaw No 4662, 2010, Amendment Bylaw No 5339, 2024
PROPOSED ZONING BYLAW NO.
4662, 2010, AMENDMENT BYLAW NO.
5339, 2024: Would add cannabis retail to the Commercial 1 zone for 6609 Royal Avenue to allow the existing cannabis retail store to operate in perpetuity. The existing store is currently in operation under an approved temporary use permit.
QUESTIONS: Megan Roberts, Assistant Planner maroberts@westvancouver.ca | 604-921-3453
The public hearing is your opportunity to speak to Council if you feel your interests will be affected by the proposed bylaws.
ATTEND THE PUBLIC HEARING AS AN OBSERVER:
• Watch online: Visit westvancouver.ca/cc at the scheduled start time of the public hearing
• In person: Visit Municipal Hall Council Chamber at the scheduled start time of public hearing. Advance registration is not required to attend a public hearing.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PUBLIC HEARING:
• Speak in-person
Municipal Hall Council Chamber, 750 17th Street, West Vancouver Persons may address Council during the public hearing for up to five minutes at a time.
• Online via Webex (electronic communication facilities)
Please call 604-925-7004 on October 21, 2024 to be added to the speakers list Instructions on how to participate are available at westvancouver.ca/ph.
• Provide a written submission
• By email, to correspondence@westvancouver.ca
• By mail, addressed to Legislative Services, 750 17th Street, West Vancouver, BC V7V 3T3
• In-Person, addressed to Legislative Services placed in the drop-box located outside the entrance to Municipal Hall
Written submissions must be received by noon on October 21, 2024 to ensure their inclusion in the public information package for Council’s consideration. To ensure a fair process, Council cannot consider any submissions received after the public hearing has ended.
MORE INF ORMATION: The proposed bylaw including staff reports and other suppor ting documents may be viewed at westvancouver.ca/news/notices and at Municipal Hall from October 4 to October 21, 2024 during regular business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays.
PLANNING & DE VEL OP ME NT SER VICES 750 17th Street, West Vancouver BC V7V 3T3 | 604-925-7055 | planning@westvancouver.ca | westvancouver.ca
As our province prepares for the upcoming election, now more than ever, it is essential to take the time to get to know the candidates vying for your vote. Elections shape the future of our communities, and the leaders we choose will make decisions on critical issues that affect our daily lives—from healthcare and education to housing and infrastructure. Understanding where each candidate stands on
these matters is the key to making informed decisions at the ballot box.
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to overlook the importance of local elections, but these decisions impact us directly. Provincial representatives influence policies that affect everything from taxes to local services, and by voting, we ensure that our voices are heard on issues that matter most to us. However, simply
casting a vote isn’t enough—it’s important to know the people behind the platforms.
By getting to know the candidates, their values, and their vision for the community, voters can make choices that align with their own priorities. Take the time to research the issues, read about the candidates, and understand their positions. Our “Connect with Candidates” feature provides a straightforward way to do just that.
Voting is not just a right—it’s a responsibility. It ensures that democracy remains strong and that decisions reflect the will of the people. Whether it’s your first time voting or you’ve participated in many elections before, make your vote count. The future of the North Shore depends on it. Get informed, get involved, and get out and vote!
Matt
Blair Publisher,
North Shore News
PROVINCIAL PARTY: BC NDP YOUR RIDING: NORTH VANCOUVER-LONSDALE
I am a professional engineer, cabinet minister, and working mom.
I have served North Vancouver-Lonsdale as MLA for 7 years (two terms) and am running to be re-elected
I live in the City of North Vancouver with my husband and daughter.
I have lived on the North Shore for 10+ years.
reach me at email Bowinn.Ma@bcndp.ca web bowinnma.ca
Q What have your past contributions to the community been?
A Working with the community as their MLA, I’ve helped deliver six major school projects, safe playgrounds at elementary schools, a new state-of-the-art 108-bed acute care tower at Lions Gate Hospital, a new urgent and primary care centre, a new addictions recovery community centre, and more.
Over 1700 provincially-funded homes are complete or underway on the North Shore alone, including units that rent for as low as $500/month. Over $220 million in childcare investments have landed on the North Shore, which has added thousands of spaces to our community and reduced fees for parents by over $100 million so far.
Record investments in transit have expanded service, and we’ve made public transit free for kids 12 and under. We’ve gained new active transportation pathways, a new SeaBus vessel enabling 10-minute sailing frequency and extended hours, a new RapidBus R2 service, and upgrades to Waterfront SeaBus Station, Lonsdale Quay Transit Exchange, and Phibbs Transit Exchange.
These are just some of the local highlights, and there is much more to do.
Q What major issues do you think have to be addressed in the next four years?
A A government led by David Eby and the BC NDP will tackle the tough issues head-on, including access to health care, costs-of-living, housing affordability, and climate change. We’ll be tough on housing speculators, deliver more middle-class housing, hire more doctors and nurses, invest in the infrastructure our communities need, and deliver rapid transit to the North Shore.
PROVINCIAL PARTY: BC CONSERVATIVE PARTY YOUR RIDING: WEST VANCOUVER - CAPILANO
As a W.V. School Trustee and resident for over 50 years, I have deep roots in this community. As an immigrant who settled on the North Shore, I grew up and raised my children here, and now my grandchildren are here, too. My family has always been committed to serving this community. With a long career in education (Master in Ed. Admin., Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence), I’m dedicated to ensuring our schools and community are thriving.
reach me at email lynne.block@conservativebc.ca web conservativebc.ca/block
Q What made you decide to stand in this election?
A The NDP's fiscal mismanagement has hurt the quality of life for many British Columbians. My upbringing instilled a deep respect for democracy, freedoms, and a robust economy, which are vital for everyone’s well-being.
Seeing our province’s rising debt, increased taxes, and declining services in healthcare, housing, and education has motivated me to take action. It’s time for positive change.
Q If there is one change you could help bring about - what would it be?
A Fiscal responsibility and a balanced budget are essential for improving the cost of living and enhancing services like healthcare, housing, education, and transportation.
Q How do you find out what people's concerns are?
A I prioritize listening to our community. While door knocking and meeting people, I engage with friends and family, read various sources, consult advisors, and stay updated with polls. I actively listen to different groups to understand their concerns and ensure their voices are heard.
Q How and where do you network?
A I listen to experts, local elected officials, business leaders, healthcare professionals, and long-time residents. I study best practices, attend workshops, and stay informed by reading relevant research to ensure I’m well-equipped to address our community’s needs.
Q What would you like your legacy as an elected official to be?
A I am an advocate for my community, dedicated to ensuring that everyone is born equal to enjoy life in a peaceful and secure society.
PROVINCIAL PARTY: INDEPENDENT
YOUR RIDING: WEST VANCOUVER-CAPILANO
Q What made you decide to stand in this election?
A I was planning on retiring from politics, but after the collapse of the BC United Party and the loss of a centrist option, I received countless calls and emails encouraging me to run for re-election. People are unhappy with seven years of NDP government and unsettled by the inexperience and extreme views of many BC Conservative candidates
As a result, I decided to run as an Independent candidate in West Vancouver-Capilano. I am an experienced, qualified, centrist choice for voters and it would be my honour to serve as the MLA for another term.
Q What major issues do you think have to be addressed in the next four years?
A I believe that building a strong private sector economy will help us address the serious issues surrounding health care, public safety, mental health and addictions, social services, traffic and transportation, cost of living, housing, and child care.
Q What organizations have you served with or volunteered for?
A Judicial Council of BC, Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, Vancity Community Foundation, BC Degree Quality Assessment Board, BC Council for International Education, and Family Services Canada.
Q If there is one change you could help bring about - what would it be?
A With our aging population on the North Shore, there is an urgent need for more long-term care beds and increased home support services for our seniors.
Q How do you find out what people’s concerns are?
A Over the past four years as MLA, I’ve had the privilege to meet regularly with constituents, community members, and stakeholders to listen to their concerns.
As Shadow Minister for Housing and Child Care, I’ve met with people and organizations across BC, including non-profit housing societies, real estate developers, mayors and councillors, professional associations, and child care providers to name a few.
Q What is your current employment? Past employment?
A I am a Chartered Professional Accountant. I also hold Masters degrees in both Law and Business Administration. I was Assistant Dean in UBC’s Sauder School of Business and was the CEO of the Real Estate Foundation of BC, the Private Career Training Institutions Agency of BC and Family Services of Greater Vancouver
Q What will you do differently than the current elected officials?
A As an Independent MLA, I am in a unique position to potentially hold the balance of power in the next legislative session, which means I can advocate for good policies and practical solutions.
I am seeking re-election as an Independent Candidate in the riding of West VancouverCapilano.
I am the incumbent MLA and have served as your representative in Victoria for the past four years.
I have lived on the North Shore for over two decades, and I currently reside in West Vancouver.
I feel fortunate to live on the North Shore and be a member of this wonderful community.
I am a lifelong learner, an avid gardener, a musician, and a very lucky mom.
I want to be known for:
Offer ing voter s a centr ist choice this elec tion, ensu ring government is soc ially progr essive and fisc ally disc iplined.
reach me at phone 236-971-1019 email contact@voteforkarin.ca web voteforkarin.ca
Q What major issues do you think have to be addressed in the next four years?
A North Shore traffic congestion is a problem that affects residents daily. Addressing this is crucial to improving quality of life.
The affordability crisis, especially in housing, also needs urgent attention to ensure the area remains accessible for everyone.
Healthcare wait times and public safety are also top concerns. Enhancing mental health care, along with ensuring safety around housing projects will be key to strengthening the community over the next four years.
Q What organizations have you served with or volunteered for?
A I founded CovidHelper in 2020, which connected seniors with volunteers during the pandemic, helping over 1,000 people. I’ve raised more than $3 million for various charities, including Athletics for Kids, KidSafe Project Society, Variety B.C., Children’s Wish Foundation, and Covenant House. I’ve mentored students through Pecha Kucha Nights, UBC, SFU, and the Centre for Digital Media, supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and helping them grow in their careers.
Q If there is one change you could help bring about - what would it be?
A North Shore traffic congestion would be my priority. We’ve already begun. The BC Conservatives have committed to a Second Narrows Bridge, which will greatly reduce traffic and help families get home. Improving local east-west
access, and expanding our bridge infrastructure would make a significant difference in daily commuting times. This change would improve mobility, reduce stress, and enhance overall quality of life on the North Shore.
Q What is your current employment? Past employment?
A I am a serial entrepreneur with a background in launching and growing businesses in the technology and creative sectors. Since exiting my last venture in 2020, I launched First Fund, and have focused on mentoring and investing in more than 80 entrepreneurs who are building innovative businesses in BC.
Q Are there any areas of interest that you would like to express an opinion on?
A Small-Scale, multi-unit housing: Bill 44 should exempt municipalities meeting housing targets, giving local governments control over infrastructure planning.
Supportive Housing:
Facilities for addiction care are important, but common sense dictates that they should be located away from families with children.
Climate Change: BC cannot solve climate change by taxation given our global emissions are tiny (64 MTs) compared to China (13,000 Megatonnes) and India (3,000 Megatonnes). We need to invest in Carbon Capture R&D, and export that technology to other countries for true global difference.
I’m running for the first time, and I’m excited to bring positive change to North VancouverSeymour.
I’m known to be someone who gets things done, and am a recipient of the BC Business Top 30 under 30 award, and TMX Canada’s Next 150 award.
I’m a technology entrepreneur turned investor who supports and mentors around 80 individuals as they build their businesses.
I cherish the small moments with my one-year old daughter and love to explore the North Shore mountains, often hitting the trails with my dog, Leo.
I want to be known for: Tackling North Vancouver’s traffic congestion headon with practical solutions for faster, more efficient commutes.
me at phone 672-380-2125 email sam.chandola@conservativebc.ca web samchandola.ca
This is my first time running for office.
I live in the District of West Vancouver. I’ve lived on the North Shore for over 20 years!
I was the first Canadian youth delegate to the United Nation Development conference, I have been honored with the YWCA Young Woman of Distinction Award, the Diamond Jubilee Medal and the prestigious Rotary Peace Fellowship, where I received a master's degree in Development on a full scholarship.
email sara.eftekhar@bcndp.ca web saraeftekhar.bcndp.ca
Q What made you decide to stand in this election?
A As a nurse practitioner, I've witnessed firsthand how unaffordability and limited access to healthcare and housing impact my patients' health. This motivated me to become the elected Vancouver Councilor for Nurse Practitioners of BC, where I contributed to improving healthcare policy, advocated for free prescription contraception through AccessBC, and played a key role in establishing forensic nursing services at Lions Gate Hospital. However, I am eager to do even more, which is why I’m running with the BC NDP. The BC Conservatives aim to cut social services and healthcare, while the BC NDP has made significant progress but still has much work ahead. After 30 years with the same representative in this constituency, it's time for a change
Q What major issues do you think have to be addressed in the next four years?
A Affordability, housing and healthcare are our top priorities. Some highlights from our platform include: a middle-class tax cut providing $1,000 immediately to families, helping seniors with cost of living by increasing the seniors supplement from $50 to $149 per month, providing free transit for seniors in off peak hours, expanding the hospital at home program, hiring more family doctors/ nurse practitioners and building new medical facilities.
Q What organizations have you served with or volunteered for?
A The Vancouver Foundation, North Shore Community Resources, the Steering Committee to End Violence Against Women on the North Shore, Child Care Action Board at City of West Vancouver plus many more. reach me at
I was first elected in 2020 and am seeking re-election.
I have lived in Lynn Valley since 1988 and I was born at Lions Gate Hospital.
My husband and I raised our family here on the North Shore.
I served as a member of the Naval Reserves for over 40 years. I am a registered nurse and continue to work casual in the community in addition to my work over the last four years as your MLA.
reach me at
email susie.chant@bcndp.ca web susiechant.bcndp.ca
Q What made you decide to stand in this election?
A It has been a pleasure and an honour to serve our community in the legislature. Both my work here in the constituency office and in Victoria have allowed me to understand that there is so much work to be done to support and maintain our marvelous community and province.
Our leader, David Eby, is tackling the biggest challenges that people are facing, which is true of our entire team. The reforms and plans we’ve put in place are starting to have a significant impact in BC - but we’re not there yet. I and the BC NDP team work hard every day to build a province where you don’t just get by, you get ahead And we won’t stop until the job is done..
Q What major issues do you think have to be addressed in the next four years?
A At the doors and on the streets of North Vancouver-Seymour, I hear that people need action on housing costs, on healthcare, and on the cost of day-to-day life.
We’ve been taking action on these challenges and many others. We have taken on housing speculators and are putting a plan in place that experts say will create 300,000 more homes for middle-income people. We are connecting people to family doctors and also cutting the cost of childcare in half
John Rustad and his team aren’t going to make things better. They’re promising to cut $4.1 billion from healthcare They want to return to high car insurance rates and bridge tolls John Rustad is a risk we just can’t afford.
The 2024 Provincial General Election is on Saturday, October 19, 2024. There are many ways (and many days) to vote.
You can vote in the 2024 Provincial General Elec tion if you are:
•18 or older on Oc tober 19, 2024
• a Canadian citizen, and
•a resident of British Columbia since April 18, 2024
Register now to save time when you vote
You can register or update your voter information at elections.bc.ca/register or by calling 1- 80 0- 661- 8683.
Registration online and by phone closes at 11:59 p.m. (Pacif ic time) on Oc tober 7.
Af ter Oc tober 7, you can still register when you vote, but voting will take longer. Remember to bring ID when you go to vote.
Vote at a District Electoral Of fice
Voting at district elec toral of fices is available now during of fice hours until 4 p.m. (Pacif ic time) on Final Voting Day.
Vote at Advance Voting
There are six days of advance voting: Oc tober 10 - 13 and 15 - 16, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (local time).
Advance voting places will be closed on Oc tober 14 (Thanksgiving).
Vote on Final Voting Day
Final Voting Day is Saturday, Oc tober 19. Voting places will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Pacif ic time) on Final Voting Day.
To vote by mail, request your voting package as soon as possible. Visit elections.bc.ca/votebymail or call 1- 80 0- 661- 8683
Visit wheretovote.elections.bc.ca to find voting places near you and when they are open.
There are new elec toral districts for the 2024 provincial elec tion To see a map of your new elec toral district, enter your address at elections.bc.ca/mydistrict
Chief Joe Mathias Centre
100 Capilano Rd, West Vancouver, BC
Navy League Hall
1555 Forbes Ave, North Vancouver, BC
Norgate Comm Elem School
1295 Sowden St, North Vancouver, BC
North Vancouver Lawn Bowling Club
249 E 24th St, North Vancouver, BC
Queen Mary Comm School
230 W Keith Rd, North Vancouver, BC
Ridgeway Elem School
420 E 8th St, North Vancouver, BC
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 118 123 W 15th St, North Vancouver, BC
Sutherland Sec School 1860 Sutherland Ave, North Vancouver, BC
19, 2024)
The Eslha7an Learning Centre
345 W 5th St, North Vancouver, BC
Wallace Venue
300-125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC
Westview Elem School
641 W 17th St, North Vancouver, BC
North Vancouver-Lonsdale 1395 Pember ton Ave North Vancouver, BC (778) 572- 4255
Hours of Operation (local time) Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Advance voting days 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Blueridge Elem
(778) 926- 4822
(778) 772-2545
Voting Places for West Vancouver- Capilano
St. Stephen’s Anglican
Canyon Heights Elem School
4501 Highland Blvd, North Vancouver, BC
Capilano Elem School
1230 W 20th St, North Vancouver, BC
Highlands Elem School
3150 Colwood Dr, North Vancouver, BC
Hollyburn Elem School
1329 Duchess Ave, West Vancouver, BC
Lions Gate Comm Rec Centre
1733 Lions Gate Lane, North Vancouver, BC
Montroyal Elem School
5310 Sonora Dr, North Vancouver, BC
Mountainside Sec School
3365 Mahon Ave, North Vancouver, BC
Ridgeview Elem School
1250 Mathers Ave, West Vancouver, BC
Sentinel Sec School
1250 Char twell Dr, West Vancouver, BC
West Bay Elem School
3175 Thompson Pl, West Vancouver, BC
West Vancouver Comm Centre
2121 Marine Dr, West Vancouver, BC
Westcot Elem School
760 Westcot Rd, West Vancouver, BC
École Cleveland Elem School
1255 Eldon Rd, North Vancouver, BC
École Pauline Johnson Elem School 1150 22nd St, West Vancouver, BC
West Vancouver-Capilano 811-100 Park Royal South West Vancouver, BC (778) 572- 4284
Hours of Operation (local time) Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Advance voting days 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Candidate’s Name: Financial Agent: Of ficial Agent:
Lynne Block Conservative Party
Sara Ef tekhar
BC NDP
Archie Kaario
BC Green Party
Karin Kirkpatrick
Independent
Brock Stephenson 6654 Strathmore Ave, Burnaby, BC, V5E 3H7 (604) 512-3835
Ben Pye
207-308 2nd St W, North Vancouver, BC, V7M 1E1 (778) 512-8250
Raheel Rameez 1150 Jervis St, Vancouver, BC, V6E 2C8 (778) 444 -1990
Keith McBain 958 Frederick Pl, North Vancouver, BC, V7K 2B5 (604) 614- 0748
Trac y Dobell 6433 Fox St, West Vancouver BC, V7 W 2C3
Voting Places for West Vancouver-Sea to Sk y
Advance Voting Places (open
Bowen Island Comm School 1041 Mt Gardner Rd, Bowen Island, BC
Gleneagles Clubhouse 6190 Marine Dr, West Vancouver, BC
Pemberton Sec School 1400 Oak St, Pemberton, BC
Squamish Valley Golf Club 2458 Mamquam Rd, Squamish, BC
Telus Whistler Conf Centre 4010 Whistler Way, Whistler, BC
Totem Hall 1380 Stawamus Rd, Squamish, BC
Election Day Voting Places (open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pacific time on Saturday, Oc tober 19, 2024)
Bowen Island Comm School
1041 Mt Gardner Rd, Bowen Island, BC
Don Ross Middle School
42091 Ross Rd, Squamish, BC
Garibaldi Highlands Elem School
2590 Portree Way, Squamish, BC
Howe Sound Sec School
38430 Buckley Ave, Squamish, BC
Lions Bay Comm Hall
400 Centre Rd, Lions Bay, BC
Myrtle Philip Comm School 6195 Lorimer Rd, Whistler, BC
N’Quatqua Comm Centre 762 Nquatqua, D’Arcy, BC
Pemberton Sec School 1400 Oak St, Pember ton, BC
Rockridge Sec School 5350 Headland Dr, West Vancouver, BC
The 55 Activity Centre 1201 Village Green Way, Squamish, BC
Candidates for West Vancouver-Sea to Sk y
Candidate’s Name:
Jen Ford
BC NDP
Yuri Fulmer
Conservative Party
Jeremy Valeriote
BC Green Party
Financial Agent:
Susan Krieger 73-2704 Cheakamus Way, Whistler, BC, V8E 0L9 (604) 935-9028
Desmond Chun 1105 -3333 Brown Rd, Richmond, BC, V6X 0P6 (778) 238-8066
James Grif fiths 8581 Drif ter Way, Whistler, BC, V8E 0G2 (604) 816- 6616
Totem Hall 1380 Stawamus Rd, Squamish, BC
Ts zil Learning Centre
125 Lillooet Lake Rd, Mount Currie, BC
Valleycliffe Elem 38430 West way Ave, Squamish, BC
Whistler Sec School 8000 Alpine Way, Whistler, BC
Of ficial Agent:
District Electoral Office
West Vancouver-Sea to Sky 3814 4 2nd Ave Squamish, BC (778) 572- 4610
Hours of Operation (local time)
Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Advance voting days 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Jatinder Sidhu 2818 Marine Dr, West Vancouver BC, V7 V 1L9
PAUL DEEGAN Contributing writer
According to the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism’s Digital News Report 2024, Canadians’ trust in news is 39 per cent. For comparison, Americans’ trust in news is even lower at 32 per cent.
There are many variables at play in the decline of trust, including engagement-driven algorithms that deprioritize hard news – which traditionally provided a common set of facts – in favour of reinforcing one’s point of view rather than informing the reader.
The rise of ‘fake news,’ misinformation, and
disinformation are among other factors in the decline of trust.
Across Canada, newspapers – whether print or digital – continue to cover school boards, cops, courts, city hall, and other issues that matter to the daily lives of Canadians. That’s why Canadians’ trust in their regional or local newspaper stands at a relatively healthy 65 per cent.
But real journalism by real journalists – not some artificial intelligence tool that scrapes the web for content, which is not always reliable – costs real money. Real local journalism involves the hard work of gathering facts,
shows evidence of first-hand reporting – such as independent research, interviews, and fieldwork – and editing.
The light rewriting, reproduction, or aggregation of news from external sources is not original journalism, nor is simply cutting and pasting news releases or loading up a website with copy from a wire service or with a carousel of clickbait.
While there is no one silver bullet to solve the economic crisis in journalism, there are solutions that can help.
First, businesses can support their local newspaper through advertising.
Governments – federal, provincial and local – can follow the lead of the Ford government in Ontario and earmark 25 per cent of advertising spend to domestic news publishers. For context, the feds spent more on China’s TikTok last year than all Canadian print publications combined.
The private sector shouldn’t be competing with the public broadcaster, which takes in $73,139,000 in digital advertising revenue while receiving $1,271,800,000 in direct annual government subsidies.
The government can provide the Competition Bureau with the tools and resources it needs to complete its investigation into online advertising practices in Canada.
And finally, Canada Post needs to return to the long-standing policy of exempting community newspapers with commercial inserts (e.g., flyers from local hardware and grocery franchisees) from the Consumers’ Choice program. Community newspapers with commercial inserts are not ‘junk mail.’
In a world where misinformation travels faster than truth, newspapers and their websites keep Canadians informed, connected, and engaged in communities from coast to coast. National Newspaper Week is an opportunity to recognize the 3,000 print journalists who work tirelessly every day to get news out to Canadians, but it’s also an opportunity to reflect on how we, as Canadians, can support their work.
Paul Deegan is president and CEO of News Media Canada
13 ,510 (N
Thanks to theefforts of walkers, sponsors, volunteers anddonors, ourfallfundraiser, Step Up forLGH raised aphenomenal totalof $213,310 (net).
100% of theproceedsfromthe event will be directed to our Bigger,Better Cancer Care Campaign whichwillhelp us builda newOncologyClinicatLions Gate Hospital.
Thankyou so much forcomingout to supportour hospital.Welookforward to seeing younextyear!
PresentingSponsor
Communit yChampions
Moment/Activity Sponsors
Communit yLeaders
SPOOKY SPAN
We’re introducing more newspaper boxes across the Shore than ever before
Visit www.nsnews.com/other/contact-us for a full list of newspaper boxes
to arrange a box for your neighbourhood
ABBY LUCIANO Contributing writer
Fall is officially upon us, which means the cold, rainy weather is quickly approaching.
But fall also brings back classic traditions like drinking hot apple cider and carving pumpkins, and it also means Halloween is almost here, and Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is holding its annual Canyon Frights starting Friday, Oct. 11.
Canyon Frights will host a variety of events for the whole family to get in the Halloween spirit, including live entertainment at the Loggers’ Grill Plaza and limited-time snacks and beverages at The Cliff House Restaurant & Bar.
Former owners of the park, “Elizabeth and Mac,” will be the hosts throughout the annual event, according to a statement from the park. The pair will “pop up” throughout the park, adding suspense to your visit.
The park will be decorated in spooky decor for people to enjoy and attendees can also dress up in their favourite costumes as long as they are child-friendly and safe.
The Raptors Ridge Birds of Prey will also be returning on the weekends.
Oct. 11-31.
To get into the spooky season, people can find more information or buy tickets in advance at capbridge.com until Oct. 31, with annual pass holders reserving a spot online. Abby Luciano is a freelance writer at the North Shore News who resides in Surrey. She can be reached at abby.luciano@hotmail. com
Cancer has hit close to home for MargaretFraser many times over the years: her grandmother passed away from lung cancer in 1948; her mother from a rare uterine cancer at age69; and her husband,Colin, faced prostate cancer justasthe NorthVancouver couple celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. But it was back in the ’80s when Fraser’s nephew, Ian, was diagnosed with childhood leukemia, at just twoyears old, thatshe really realized how invaluable donations are in advancing life-saving care.
“His doctors kept saying, ‘If we can keep himalivefor four years the research will have improved so much,’”
says Fraser,who is happy to reportIan is now 40 with twokids of his own.
“Atthe end of the day, research is whatisgoing to help us all. Ithink there’sanassumption among the public thatthe government funds health care, but theycan’t possibly cover it all —especially when it comes to research,”saysFraser.
Margaret and Colin, who is nowten years postdiagnosis and in good health, regularly donate to theBCCancer Foundation to supportvital research. However,after Margaret’sendometrial cancer diagnosis in 2021, they decided to makean even greater commitment by including agifttothe Foundation in their will.
“Being philanthropic doesn’t mean you have to be wealthy. Iprobably won’t be leaving behindmillions,” laughs Fraser.“But havingworked in the nonprofit charitable sector mostofmylife, I’mveryaware of whatasmall amountofmoney can do. Ialso appreciate how muchgood work is done through the generosityofothers.”
Originally from Scotland, Fraser has lived in four provinces during her 40 years in Canada but was incredibly grateful to have completed her radiation and chemotherapy treatments at BC Cancer –
Vancouver
“When you aresovulnerable, you need to have confidence thatthe person treatingyou has the best equipment available to them and has empathy
for you and your family.I was luckyIhad that experience.
“Leaving alegacygifttothe BC Cancer Foundationis thebestway Ican give back,”she says.
Fraser also hopes speaking about her own cancer journeywill inspire others to open up,advocate for themselves and others facingthe disease, and become partofthe solution.
“When Iwas diagnosed everybody knew about it. It’s amazing whatpeople will share when you start telling them your story. There are veryfew of us who will go through life without havingafriend or
loved one stolen from us by this dreaded disease. By donating, we know thatinthe future, families will benefit from something small we didthatwill mean aworld of difference to them.”
Fraser’scommitment reflects adeeper truth: when we give back, we become partofthe solution.
Supporting cancer research is an opportunityto create lasting change, helping to fuel innovations thatwill save lives. By joining in this effort, anyone can contribute to afuture where families will have access to better treatments and, ultimately,a cure.
To learn more about leaving alegacy gift to the BC Cancer Foundation, we welcome you or your advisor to contact Sandi London at (778) 875-3628 or sandi. london@bccancer.bc.ca. Or visit bccancerfoundation. com/LegacyGiving.
The BC Cancer Foundation is the fundraising partner of BC Cancer and the largest philanthropic funder of cancer research and care in B.C. Donor support drives leading-edge innovations and helps increase access to treatments across the province Ñuellinghope for the 80,000 patients who depend on BC Cancer each year.
TheNorth ShoreNewsisproud of themen andwomen whoare servingorhaveservedour country. We wouldliketopay tributeto as many NorthShore born-and-raised military personnelas possible in ourupcomingRemembrance Dayfeature publishing on Friday,Nov. 8, 2024.
If youora lovedone is currently servingorhas served ourcountry, we areinvitingyou to submit aveteran listingfor ourfeature.
Submissiondetails:
If you’ve alreadysubmitted alisting fora previous Remembrance Dayfeature,please emailpromo@nsnews.comand give us the name of theveteran. Mark ‘Veteranlisting re-run’ in thesubject line of your email.
If youare submitting abrand newlisting,pleaseemail the following to promo@nsnews.com:
•Photo of veteran
•25-word max. bioofveteran
Please mark ‘Newveteran listing’ in thesubject line of your email.
Allemailsmustbereceivedby5:00p.m., Friday Nov. 1, 2024.Inclusion will be basedonfirst come,first served andamountofavailablespace in thefeature.
224 (1) A council may, by bylaw in accordance with this section, exempt land or improvements, or both, referred to in subsection (2) from taxation under section 197 (1) (a) [municipal property taxes], to the extent, for the period and subject to the conditions provided in the bylaw.
(2) Tax exemptions may be provided under this section for the following:
(a) land or improvements that (i) are owned or held by a charitable, philanthropic or other not for profit corporation, and (ii) the council considers are used for a purpose that is directly related to the purposes of the corporation;
(c) land or improvements that the council considers would otherwise qualify for exemption under section 220 [general statutory exemptions] were it not for a secondary use;
(d) the interest of a public authority, local authority or any other corporation or organization in land or improvements that are used or occupied by the corporation or organization if (i) the land or improvements are owned by
Capilano Senior Citizen’s Housing Society 1475 Esquimalt Avenue
Klahanee Park Housing Society 370 Klahanie Court
Kiwanis North Shore Housing Society 959 21st Street
Kiwanis North Shore Housing Society 975 & 999 21st
Kiwanis North Shore Housing Society 950 22nd
Kiwanis North Shore Housing Society 2151 Gordon Avenue
Hollyburn Community Services Society 210, 220, 230, 240, 250 & 260 Klahanie Court
PLA CES OF WO RSHIP
Christ the Redeemer Parish 599 Keith Road
First Church of Christ, Scientist 714 20th
Har EI, North Shore Centre for Jewish Life Society 1305 Taylor Way
North Shore Unitarian Church 370 Mathers Avenue
Parish of St. Christopher’s (West Vancouver) 1068 Inglewood Avenue
Parish of St. Christopher’s (West Vancouver) 1080 11th Street
St. Stephen’s Anglican Church 885 22nd Avenue
Park Royal Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1335 3rd Street
St. Anthony’s Church 2347 Inglewood Avenue
St. David’s United Church 1525 Taylor Way
St. Francis-in-the-Wood Anglican Church 4773 Piccadilly South
West Vancouver Presbyterian Church 2893 Marine
West Vancouver United Church 2062 Esquimalt Avenue
a public authority or local authority, and (ii) the land or improvements are used by the corporation or organization for a purpose in relation to which an exemption under this Division or Division 6 of this Part would apply or could be provided if the land or improvements were owned by that corporation or organization;
(f ) in relation to property that is exempt under section 220 (1) (h) [buildings for public worship], (i) an area of land surrounding the exempt building, (ii) a hall that the council considers is necessary to the exempt building and the land on which the hall stands, and (iii) an area of land surrounding a hall that is exempt under subparagraph (ii);
(h) in relation to property that is exempt under section 220 (1) (i) [seniors’ homes] or (j) [hospitals], any area of land surrounding the exempt building;
(k) land or improvements for which a grant has been made, after March 31, 1974, under the Housing Construction (Elderly Citizens) Act before its repeal.
PLEASE NO TE:
* Th ese estimat es ma y not represent additional tax ex emptions that may be available through BC As ses sment.
** Th is is the list of app lications re ce iv ed by the District of We st Va nc ouv er Th e ex em ption is discr etionary and has not ye t been appr ove d by Co uncil.
Continued from A13
16-year-olds are given the right.
Council members were largely impressed with the Songs’ presentation, with Mayor Mark Sager noting he first got involved in civic politics by serving on a municipal committee when he was 16, and Coun. Nora Gambioli saying she would bring a motion to support the Vote16 campaign at a future meeting.
Only Coun. Linda Watt said she wasn’t supportive of the concept.
“My concern with this is not all 16-yearolds are like yourselves. One of the biggest arguments against lowering the voting age, of course, is you’re not paying taxes, rent, roofs over your head, seeing where finances go,” she said.
Following the meeting, the twins said they are very familiar Watt’s arguments, but more than a third of 16-year-olds have jobs. And there is more to governance than taxes.
Post-secondary education and student debt, prospects for affordable housing and climate change, especially, are key examples where young people have a disproportionate amount of skin in the game but have no say in the creation of policies.
“I think our perception of how we need to solve climate change is much more
urgent than many of the older populations, because it feels like it actually may impact our lives really significantly,” Jerry said.
Jason and Jerry will graduate from Mulgrave School soon. There’s no question they’ll be going on to study political science in university, although they haven’t decided yet which post-secondary school – or schools – to apply to. The two joked that they have never been apart for longer than the three minutes that passed in between their births.
Whether the campaign to lower the voting age to 16 becomes law or not, and regardless of how many people their TwinTalk Politics podcast reaches, the Songs said they hope their activism sends a message to their peers who do want to make a difference.
“You can make an impact, regardless of your age, regardless of who you are, where you are, your race, your gender, all these arbitrary factors,” Jason said. “We can make a change in this world, and it’s time we do that.”
To find TwinTalk Politics, visit twintalkpolitics.com To learn more about the #Vote16 campaign, visit vote16.ca
To sign the Songs’ petition, visit change.org/p/ west-vancouver-lower-the-voting-age-to-16
Canadian newspapers are powered by journalists, not AI. They check the facts so you can trust what you’re reading. That’s why 4 in 5 people in Canada come back each week for more. Thanks for keeping it real with us nationalnewspaperweek.ca
In accordance with Section 227 ofthe Community Charter, notice is herebygiven thatthe Council for theDistrictofNorth Vancouver intends to considerthe adoption of Bylaw8719 “2024-2027 Taxation ExemptionsbyCouncil Bylaw 8636,2023 Amendment Bylaw 8719, 2024(Amendment 1)”atthe Regular Council Meeting to be heldonMonday,October 21, 2024. Bylaw 8719 will provide thefollowing properties with a100% exemption from the payment of Municipal property taxesfor theyears2025 to 2027 inclusive.
Note: Thetax figuresbeloware estimates only and will be modified based on changesinassessment,asprovided by BC Assessment, and taxes as deter mined by Council forthe years 2025, 2026 and2027.
Copies of Bylaw8719 “2024-2027 Taxation ExemptionsbyCouncilBylaw 8636, 2023 Amendment Bylaw 8719, 2024 (Amendment 1)” andrelevantbackground materialare available forreview online in the agenda package for the October 7, 2024 Regular Meeting of Council at DNV.org/agenda
Permissive TaxExemptions –ExtractofCommunity Charter
Generalauthority for per missive exemptions
224 (1) Acouncil may, by bylawinaccordance with this section,exempt land or improvements, or both, referred to in subsection (2) from taxation undersection 197 (1)(a) [municipal property taxes],tothe extent, for theperiod and subjecttothe conditions providedin the bylaw.
(2) Tax exemptions may beprovided under this section for the following: (a) land or improvements that (i)are owned or held by acharitable, philanthropic or other not for profit corporation, and (ii) the council considersare used for apurpose that is directly relatedtothe purposes of the corporation.
Continued from A6
In response, Ma said hers was the first provincial government to get involved in directly funding TransLink when the pandemic wiped out ridership and revenues.
“The BC NDP has always been there for public transit,” she said. “We’ll be sitting down with them and I’m confident we’ll be able to make it work.”
In response, North Vancouver-Lonsdale BC Conservative Candidate David Splett said his party’s platform including transportation policies won’t be released for another week. However, he added he was personally skeptical given the NDP could have funded the project in the last term.
“The plan… has been in place for many years, and yet the NDP have done nothing,” he said.
In July, the Conservatives put out a press release in July blaming TransLink’s financial shortfalls on the NDP. In that release, Conservative leader John Rustad said his plan to “rescue TransLink” includes an accountability audit for the transit authority, and two years of stop-gap funding to develop a “Back-on-Track Plan,” leading to a non-specified “sustainable funding model addressing financial mismanagement, overcrowding, and capacity issues.” The plan
Surrey-Langley SkyTrain line and to ensure B.C. gets its share of federal transit funding dollars.
Little said the mayors will by looking for more details, before Metro Vancouver commuters and property owners face severe impacts.
“We don’t want to be there. That’s why we’re out here talking about it. Those are the tools that are available to us. Either dramatically raising the fare box and dramatically raising the property taxes, or reviewing service cut potentials,” he said. “Our communities understand the urgency.
When we switched some areas to newspaper boxes earlier this year, we could not have imagined the demand for printed newspapers.
In some locations, like Lynn Valley Centre, we redeliver multiple times and go through more than 500 newspapers every week.
If you need additional newspapers in your neighbourhood please let us know by calling Denise at
Munday family and Alpine Lodge
As
Wh en th ey le ft th e co mp an y in 19 26 , th ey left
MONOVA: Archives of North Vancouver is located at 3203 Institute Road in Lynn Valley. Contact: archives@monova.ca
Selling homes from $500,000 to $25
All my clients get the same professional ser
When you hire me, I will always be there to “personally advise” you on all aspects of your move from star t to finish!
ABBY LUCIANO Contributing writer
You might think it’s a tough task to grow a gigantic pumpkin, but for this North Vancouver gardener specializing in gargantuan gourds, it’s no big deal.
Queensbury resident Jeff Pelletier has been growing giant vegetables for 10 years, but this year in particular he was striving to beat his previous record in B.C.’s official Great Pumpkin Commonwealth competition.
“I’m just hoping to better my score from last year. I think I will, because this pumpkin is bigger,” Pelletier said before the competition. “If you’re going to grow a giant pumpkin, it’s not that much work, and it’s super rewarding, especially when you start seeing it grow.”
Pelletier predicted his prize pumpkin would tip the scales at around 500 kilograms (1,100 pounds) this year, one of several vegetables he entered into the contest along with giant squash, a regular jack-’o-lantern pumpkin, giant zucchini and a giant tomato.
On Saturday, a crane arrived to take the pumpkin to the great pumpkin weigh off at Krause Berry Farms in Langley.
Last year, Pelletier came 21st globally and 6th in Canada in the world’s Master Gardener competition, which draws hundreds of entrants looking to claim the title with their supersized harvests.
Pelletier began growing this year’s veggies in his south-facing backyard in April, where he plants the seeds indoors. Around May, he planted the pumpkin in the ground, and has been pollinating from July until now.
“In the peak growing period, it’s putting on between 40 and 60 pounds a day,” he said.
Pelletier’s passion for growing enormous vegetables came from a young age, when he watched It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.
“As a kid, that was one of my favourite cartoons, every Halloween we’d watch it,” he said. “I always said, ‘Someday, I’m going to grow a big pumpkin.’”
And that’s exactly what he did. There’s a lot that goes into growing the huge plants, Pelletier said, such as preventing stem or blossom end rot, and dealing with moisture issues.
Pelletier protects some of his plants with white tarps over top, blankets covering them and a fan to reduce moisture.
“If they don’t have this and they put sprinklers on pumpkins getting wet every
pounds).
PAUL
day, you’re just risking the chance of getting it wrong,” he said. “I’ve successfully brought a pumpkin to competition for 10 years straight now, it’s a method that works.”
But not all plants are going to the competition, Pelletier said, as he is looking to donate or sell a 500-pound pumpkin.
“If someone wants to put a 500-pound pumpkin in their front yard, it’s available,” he said.
The local competition took place Oct. 5 in Langley, with the results of the global competition released in January or February of 2025.
When it came time for the official weigh-in, Pelletier’s giant pumpkin came in third in B.C. at 1,015 pounds. Overall, his produce performed well at the event.
“I had some pretty darn good results,” he said. “I won giant squash. I won marrow and broke the B.C. record. I won giant tomato. I won long gourd. I won bushel gourd and came second in field pumpkin.”
Almost all of the backyard fruit and veg Pelletier grew in 2024 was bigger than his 2023 haul, he said, and some of the usual top finishers had problems in their patch this year,
“So, it should help improve my overall standing,” he said.
This year, the B.C. record for hulking horticulture fell to famed Richmond pumpkin grower Dave Chan, whose titanic pumpkin weighed in at 1,021.7 kg (2,252.5 pounds).
“Yeah, huge,” Pelletier said.
Abby Luciano is a freelance writer at the North Shore News who resides in Surrey. She can be reached at abby.luciano@hotmail. com
ARIES
The harmful impact of physical inactivity on your well-being could become apparent. To motivate yourself, tr y inviting your friends to join you in activities that promote a more active lifestyle and better health.
TAURUS April 20-May 20
If you’re facing a professional transition or retirement, you must be clear about your next steps. Create a strategic plan to shape your future according to your aspirations and expectations.
GEMINI May 21-June 20
Exciting learning opportunities will propel your career to new heights. Be patient and let happiness guide your actions so you can realize your dreams.
CANCER June 21-July 22
After deep reflection, you may need to make essential changes to your environment. Re-evaluate your priorities and look for a living environment that better suits your needs and those of your loved ones.
LEO July 23-Aug. 22
Saying “yes” to everything that comes your way could lead to being overwhelmed by commitments. Take the time to gather and analyze necessary information before making important decisions.
VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22
Putting in extra hours at work could improve your financial situation. Afterward, consider devoting more time to your love life, responding to growing needs in this area.
LIBRA Sept 23-Oct 22
You’ll be in the right place at the right time to make a lasting impression. For your efforts and efficiency at work, you’ll receive wellreserved rewards and applause.
SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 21
Leaving your comfort zone could be difficult if you are strongly attached to your roots and possessions. Consider getting rid of unnecessary things to free up space in your life.
SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22-Dec 21
Expressing underlying thoughts openly and using your authority could help resolve complex situations. Boldness might help unblock restrictive deadlocks and ensure harmony in your life.
CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19
Significant financial investments, such as purchasing a new vehicle, may be necessary to maintain your professional image and avoid unforeseen events. Making a solid budget is essential.
AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb 18
Your determination to impress could pay off at work. You’ll grow your customer base and achieve your goals. Move forward with confidence. You’ll be successful if you act.
PISCES Feb. 19-March 20
If you’re looking for the perfect job, find the inspiration to define your path. Your imagination will help you create a masterpiece.
ELWICK, Penelope (Penny)
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Penelope (“Penny”) Elwick following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born in Oakland, California in 1948 to Trevor and Patricia Davis, Penny moved with her family to Victoria at age nine. She was educated at Norfolk House School in Victoria and then graduated from the University of Victoria with a Bachelor of Arts. Penny worked summers during this time on staff at Butchart Gardens.
Penny married John Elwick of Vancouver in 1972 and they were happily married for over 52 years. Their three children, James (Sue) of Oakville, Ontario, Ian (Heather) of North Vancouver, and Margot (Geoff) of Toronto have given them seven grandchildren: Jacqueline, Spencer, Charlotte, Sydney, Rowan, Evie, and Simon.
Penny is also survived by her sister Pam Elliott (Kent) of North Vancouver, and brothers Bud Davis of Central Saanich, and Paul Davis (Arlene) of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, together with several nieces and nephews.
While raising her family, Penny volunteered at the Vancouver Aquarium and then worked on staff as a naturalist for many years. She also visited residents at West Vancouver’s Capilano Care Centre with her Portuguese water dog companion, Darcy, through the BC Pets and Friends organization.
A keen swimmer, Penny regularly attended workouts at the West Vancouver Aquatic Centre and especially loved swimming and snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean during stays at the family condo at Napili Bay, Maui.
Penny and John enjoyed their many travels to various destinations in Australia, the U.S., the U.K., and Europe to visit extended family and friends over the years.
To honour Penny’s request, there will be no funeral service. A private celebration with family and friends will take place at a later date.
Donations in Penny’s memory to the B.C. Cancer Agency would be greatly appreciated.
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Anne passed away September 30, 2024. She is survived by her four children David, Jaime (Tanya), Betsy (Murray) and Maria (Robin); and her granddaughter Cecilia. Upon retirement from Capilano College where she worked for over 25 years, she enrolled at Emily Carr College to further her lifelong dream of being an artist. Her thirst for knowledge was always something she pursued. She took many courses at Simon Fraser University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. She was also an avid guitar player and when the standard guitar got to be too heavy she opted for a Ukulele. She will be sorely missed by all those that knew her. The family is very appreciative of the caring services provided by the staff at Evergreen House 1 North during her final years. No service by request.
March 8, 1929 September 30, 2024
Kay passed peacefully at home, surrounded by her family. Kay is survived by her son Brian (Anne), her daughter Janet (Randy), her grandsons Ben and Rob and her granddaughters Jenny and Lauren. She is also survived by seven great grandchildren Mom enjoyed her family, gardening and golf. For years, she enjoyed the friendship of Anne, John and Tom in their twice weekly bridge games.
Kay’s family would like to thank her neighbour, Ben English, for his caring support and for helping Kay live independently. Thanks also to Corrine Redpath for being akind and compassionate care aide for the past three years.
Special thanks to Dr. Dean Brown for his compassion and dedication to Mom.Yourkind support to her family made it possible for herto stay in her home. We will be forever grateful for this gift you gave to Mom and the family. No funeral by request. AFamily Celebration of Life is to be held at alaterdate.
GROEN, Sybrand
October 17, 1934 − September 23, 2024
Sybrand "Sy" Groen, aloving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2024, in North Vancouver, BC, at the age of 89.Born on October 17, 1934,inZorgvlied, The Netherlands. In 1955, he immigrated to Canada
Sy’s legacy is lovingly carried on by his devoted wifeof60years, Joy, his daughters Barbara (Doug) and Cindy (Sam), and his grandchildren Will, Nick, Abigail,Isaac, Savannah, and Emma. His memory will also be carried on by his brotherHarry (Evelyn),surviving in laws, and many nieces and nephews.
Sy attended the British Columbia Bible Institute from 1959 1962. His commitmenttohis faith was evident through his lifelong involvementwith Broadway Church, which he started attending in 1960. Sy’s passion for serving the Lord was reflected in his active participation in various ministries.
Sy dedicated 38 years of servicetothe Department of Highways and lived over 50 years in Lynn Valley, where he enjoyed walking to the mall. The family would like to thank the Lions Gate Hospital’s palliative care team for the care they gave to Sy.
ACelebration of Life will be heldat Broadway Church, 2700 East Broadway, on October 16 at 1pm.
EWART, James Mervin
July 16, 2024
Jim passed away into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in July of this year. He was a man of faith and integrity. He was agentleman with aquiet dignity.
Jim is survived by his loving wife Muriel of 62 happy years, sons Bruce (wife Lani, daughter Kyra)and Scott(wife Wiley, son Liam), and sisters Elaine and Marjorie.
He was adevoted husband, father, and grandfather.
Jim was born in Regina in 1939.Hemarriedhis wife,Muriel, in 1962.Jim graduated from the University of Saskatchewanwith aBachelor of Science degree in MechanicalEngineering in 1961.
Jim and Muriel moved to Vancouver and then onto Vancouver Island, where Jim started his professional engineering career. Jim worked for S. Madill Limited in Nanaimo, where he designed large logging equipment. Bruce and Scott were born in Nanaimo. The family purchased atrailer and canoe andhad many happy camping adventures for the next ten years.
Jim and family then moved backtoVancouver, where Jim worked for several companies, accumulating over forty years ofresearch and design experience. He worked forGearmatic as a chief engineer until the company relocated to the U.S. Jim wanted to remain in Canada. Jim also worked forthe Forest Engineering Research Institute of Canada,where he didresearch and design until his retirement in 2004.
Jim was atalented man. He loved working with oak. The family home reflected his mastery of carpentry.
In the early retirement years, Jim and Muriel enjoyed cruising. They went to Alaskafour times, as well as Hawaii and the Panama Canal.
Jim was later diagnosed with Parkinson’s, which eventually led to his death at age 85.
The family would like to express their gratitude for the excellent and compassionate care provided by Lions Gate Hospital and the North Shore Hospice.
Acelebration of Jim’s life will be conducted at North Shore Alliance Church on Saturday, October 26, at 1:00 pm (201 23rd Street East, NorthVancouver).
August 30, 1928 - September 25, 2024
With deep sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Len Gwilt, our dear father and grandfather, at the age of 96 on September 25, 2024, in North Vancouver. Len was predeceased by his beloved wife Sonia in 2018 and brother Donald in England in 2020. He is survived and terribly missed by his children, Mary (Frank Battista), Alex (Wendy) and Jessica; grandsons Stephen Battista (Rebecca Schmunk) and Thomas Battista; extended family in England and Chile and lifelong friends here and beyond.
Dad was born in Bournemouth, England on August 30, 1928. He and older brother Don were brought up by their mother Elaine. His British upbringing shaped his character as a true gentleman. He was also creative and adventurous and had a long career as an Architectural Association Graduate Architect, Project Manager and Planner extraordinaire living and working in England, Chile, Venezuela and Vancouver where he worked for many years and retired from H.A. Simons. A trip to Chile in 1954 changed the course of Dad’s life when he met our Mom Sonia Castillo, whom he married in 1956. Our family grew and emigrated to Vancouver in 1970. Thanks to our parents we had an incredible family life including travel and interesting adventures. Some of Dad’s favorite activities were spending time with his grandsons, reading, and watching sports on TV including golf, World Cup soccer and his favorite EPL Bournemouth Cherries.
We wish to thank the amazing care aide team at Sunrise of Lynn Valley for the wonderful care they gave Papa Len during the last 16 months of his life. We are heartbroken at the loss of our Dad and Grandpa but we are so grateful for all the wonderful memories we have of his long life. A Celebration of Life and reception will be held on Friday, October 18, 2024, at 10:00 AM at First Memorial Boal Chapel, 1505 Lillooet Road, North Vancouver.
With profound sadness, we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Craig, age 71, beloved husband, Dad and Papa at our cabin in the Okanagan in August.
Through our tears, we remember Craig with so much love and gratitude for all he shared with us.
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/ en-ca/obituaries/vernon-bc/ robert-knapton-11944109
On November 2nd at 2:00pm, there will be a Celebration of Craig’s life at St. David’s United Church in West Vancouver.
the more you
The more you give, The more you get,
The more you laugh,
The less you fret. The more you do unselfishly.
The more you live abundantly.
The more of everything you share,
The more you’ll always have to spare.
The more you love, the more you’ll find,
That life is good and friends are kind.
Peter Windibank passed on September 24, 2024 the way he wanted, at home with his family. He will be incredibly missed but lovingly remembered by Betty, his wife of 66 years and by his daughters Jodi and Linda. Peter was born in 1935 in Hindhead, England and emigrated to Vancouver at the age of 12. He married his sweetheart Betty in 1957 and they were devoted to each other. Peter was an incredibly hard worker, completing five years of high school in just two and spending many years as a full-time student while working full time at night and raising his family. Peter spent the majority of his career in the mortgage field with Manulife Financial and then Investors Syndicate, retiring in 1994 as Vancouver Branch Manager. Betty and he loved to travel, taking many wonderful trips together, and with family and friends. He loved to learn and taught himself many things including how to build furniture and how to renovate his homes. He loved his dogs Coffee, Ben, Sophie and Pepper. His family would like to thank the staff and volunteers at North Shore Hospice and the caring nurses, OT and home support workers from the VCH Palliative Care Program. There will be no service by request. To write a condolence to the family, please visit www.mckenziefuneralservices.com
For only what we give away, Enriches us from day to day.
Teresa Piercey-Gates
KURUCZ, Ronald J.
May21, 1941 September 21, 2024
Ronald J. Kurucz, of North Vancouver, passed away on September 21, 2024, at the age of 83. He is survived by his mother, Helen Loranger; daughter Kendra Edmonds (Rory Cullen); and grandchildren Braxton, Logan, Tori, and Sean. Predeceased by his wife, Moya Kurucz, Ron enjoyed acareer with CIBC and loved tennis.
ACelebration of Life will be heldon November 2, 2024, at 2:00PMat First Memorial Funeral &Boal Chapel. Donations to BC Cancer Society inhis memory.
CROSETTI, Ed
February 10, 1932 - September 27, 2024
After a long and rewarding life, Ed passed away peacefully, after a brief illness. He is survived by his loving wife June, daughter Liz (Jim), grandchildren Amy (Josh), Matthew (Chris); and great grandchildren Dax and Barrett. As a high school teacher, Dad touched the lives of countless students. His retirement years were spent fishing the Capilano River and spending time with family at the cottage in Robert’s Creek. Mum and Dad would never have been able to stay in their own home, without the amazing support of their neighbours, Michael and Taeko, Paul and Susan and Jim and Christine. Special thanks to Dr. Walton and the amazing team on 2E, who cared for Dad with such kindness and compassion. As per Dad’s wishes, there will be no service. If you would like to mark his passing, a donation to your favourite charity in his name would be appreciated.
MACDONALD, Margaret Isabella (Peggy) (nee Boyd)
March 28, 1924 - Sept 17, 2024
Peggy passed away peacefully at home on September 17th, 2024. Peggy was a beloved wife, mother, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother. She was predeceased by her husband Roy and brother George.
Peggy leaves her sons Lachlan (Fiona), Laurin (Karen), Graham (Roberta), and daughter Monica, grandchildren Jennifer, Caitlin (Shane), Robin, Mhairin (Matt), Cameron, Sydney (Alex), and Lindsey (Theo), great-grandchildren Nicole, Rhys and many nieces and nephews.
Peggy was born in Orillia to Adam and Rebecca Boyd and raised in Gravenhurst, Ontario. She loved the outdoors, horseback riding, swimming in the lakes, cold snowy winters and skating outdoors.
Peggy graduated from nursing (RN) from Toronto East General Hospital in 1947, then coming out West by train to work at Saint Josephs Hospital in Comox, B.C. It was quite an adventure!
There she met Roy and they married in 1950, raising their family of four children mostly in their North Vancouver home that Roy and his dad had built. Peggy created beautiful gardens on the large forested lot, and would continue her love of gardening most of her life.
She enjoyed skiing, swimming, reading, sewing, and walking on the trails, something she would do well into her 90s. She so enjoyed the beauty of Comox and spending time at the family summer home.
Peggy had a very busy life, caring for family, grandchildren and her mother for many years at home. She was a caregiver extrordinaire! Peggy adored her family, and enjoyed hosting many family gatherings, always taking an interest in what they were doing.
We will dearly miss her warm, caring nature, her strong resilient character, and her quiet Irish humour.
A Celebration of Life service will be held will be held on Friday, October 25th, at 2:30 pm, at Saint Catherines Anglican Church, 1058 Ridgewood Drive, North Vancouver, B.C.
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Klaus Martin Otto Otterstein
October 16, 1938 (Berlin)September 18, 2024 (Vancouver)
In gratitude for and loving memory of our Dear Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather
STEWART, Alan D. 12-09-1955 to 08-02-2024
It is with great sadness we share the news of Alan’s passing. Born and raised on the North Shore. He was a brother, father, grandfather and husband. Alan was a friend to many, a generous man who was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who asked. The family would like to extend our sincere appreciation to those who have offered their support and condolences in this time of loss. Alan had requested no services.
Scatter me not to restless winds, Nor toss my ashes to the sea. Remember now those years gone by When loving gifts I gave to thee. Remember now the happy times The family ties we shared. Don’t leave my resting place unmarked As though you never cared.
Deny me not one final gift For all who come to see A single lasting proof that says I loved... & you loved me. by DJ Kramer
Though she was 87 years of age when she passed on September 26, 2024, Denise Wild (nee O’Brien) seems to have left us too soon. Denise, Mum, Nana, leaves behind her five children, Gregory (Kathryn), Sherri (Michael), Anthony (Lisa), Lisa and Adrienne (Roger) and her 12 grandchildren. She is predeceased by her siblings Leo, Teresa, Leonie, Margaret, and lovingly survived by her brother Michael. Denise was born in Brisbane, Australia, July 25, 1937. Denise represented Australia as a fencer in the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne. It was during those Games that Denise met the love of her life, Ed Wild, who was the point guard for the Canadian basketball team. Denise and Ed promptly fell in love, were married in December of 1958 and established a home in Vancouver. There was the addition of five children, from 1960 to 1966, all born in Vancouver. Starting in 1976, Denise and Ed called West Vancouver their home. They were faith-filled supporters of the Catholic Church, and were active members, initially, of St. Anthony’s Parish, and then, more recently, Christ the Redeemer Parish. Ed predeceased Denise July of 2020, after an impressive 62 years of marital bliss. The family would like to thank Father Paul Goo and Msgr. Greg Smith, along with Vancouver Coastal Health for their unwavering support during a difficult time.
Prayers will be held on Friday, October 11, at 7:00 pm at Christ the Redeemer Parish, 595 Keith Road, West Vancouver, BC. Denise’s life will be celebrated with mass at Christ the Redeemer Parish, Saturday, October 12 at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, donations to Christ the Redeemer/St. Vincent De Paul Society would be appreciated.
vehicles are currently stored at Mitchell’s Towing Ltd, 1255 Welch Street, North Vancouver, BC, V7P1B4 or Mitchell’s Towing LTD 39655 Government Road, Squamish BC For more info call Mitchell’s Towing Ltd at 604-982-0115. management@mitchellstowing.ca
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