North Vancouver Magazine - Oct 2022

Film Festival Fun

Actor Woody Harrelson and the cast of Triangle of Sadness are just one of this year’s picks at the 2022 Vancouver International Film Festival

Tucked against the edges of a lush forest at the base of Cypress Mountain, Wildwood places you at the alpine heights of West Vancouver.

This is not an offering for sale. Any such offering can only be made with a disclosure statement. Dimensions, sizes, specifications, layouts, illustrations, views and materials are approximate and subject to change without notice. Sales and marketing by Beedie Living Realty Ltd. E. & O.E.

of

For REAL change

Democracy, with its challenges, is incredibly important. It is what makes us different as a society from authoritarian governments and one-party rule states.

Elections are a vital part of democracy. Local elections are the only ones where personal knowledge of issues and connecting with the candidates is possible. Local government is the most important to your everyday life.

In elections for more senior levels of government tribalism and ideology replace first-hand knowledge and human empathy as the basis for dialogue and voting decisions. The higher voter turnout is really just the product of clever marketing and ‘get-outthe-vote’ herding strategies on election day.

Our democracy is only as healthy as our local elections. On October 15th, please vote.

Cover photo by Doug Peters/EMPICS/Alamy Live News Cast of Triangle of Sadness with Woody Harrelson, Harris Dickinson, Charlbi Dean, Ruben Ostlund, Vicki Berlin, Iris Berben and Jean-Christophe Folly attending the Triangle of Sadness photocall, part of the 75th Cannes Film Festival

all of our past issues: www.issuu.com/turnermedia

MAYOR

Bob Mackin - Contributor / Writer

We Don’t Care, About the Mayor

It’s local election time again - and sadly, no one seems to care.

Oh sure, there’s lots of complaining about all the lawn signs littering the boulevards - but overall, the upsetting fact is this - most people don’t vote in civic elections, or even know the names of their current mayors and councillors.

According to Elections BC, less than 36% of registered voters, on average, participate in local elections. And that number is even lower among people aged 18-35.

So why don’t we care, about the mayor? Is it because people think local politics is too insignificant in their lives? Is it because they maybe don’t understand the process? Perhaps they’re just too busy with other things. Or maybe, just maybe, they’ve become too disillusioned and fed up with a political process where it looks like their vote, doesn’t count.

I overheard two young people talking the other day about this very topic in the store. “Is there an election going on,” one asked. “I don’t know”, replied the other. They saw me looking their way and smiling, at which point they asked, “Hey, do you know if there’s an election?”

I giggled and said ‘yes’ and told them that it was to vote for your mayor and council. “Oh, I don’t even know who the mayor is,” said one. The other then asked, “Ok, so who should we vote for in North Vancouver?” “It depends if you live in the City or the District,” I replied. A pair of shocked and stunned faces looked at me and said with an exclamation, “There’s two North Vancouvers!?!” I rest my case.

Voter apathy and voter confusion are the enemies of sound democracy. But having said that, I’ve also seen too many people say things like ‘just tell me who to vote for’, which kind of defeats the purpose, don’t you think?

So in a world where we care more about voting for ‘American Idol’ than our school board trustees - what can we do, to convince you, to vote.

For those who do care, we have been given the democratic right and privilege to vote for our mayor and council (and school board) on Saturday, October 15th, 2022. And I can assure you that your vote does count - and never more than here at the local level where your politicians really are your friends and neighbours who live next door.

Looking back at 2018, when we last headed to the polls, I find that the issues I voted for are still largely on the table and in need of solutions. And while I’m not about to tell you who I’m voting for, I am willing to share what I’m voting for. This is in the hopes that it will pique your interest in getting to know your candidates, and will get you out there voting for the things that matter most in your life.

Too Much Government - Do you live in West Vancouver, North Van City or North Van District? Still confused - you’re not alone. Before Covid skewed all the numbers, West Vancouver spent approx $289 million in 2018 to keep the place running. The City of North Van spent about $250 million. And the District of North Van around $290 million. Add it all up, and our local governments are spending $829 million in tax dollars for a combined population of only about 170,000 people. I know this is an oversimplification, but compare that to Surrey, for example, where they spent only a little more money (about $1 billion) for a population of 500,000 people. Clearly, you can see how we are spending more than double on just about everything. So my vote here, as it was in 2018, is for cutting back the duplication and, to be frank - stop dicking around. It really shouldn’t take this long to get permits approved and services rendered. Time to get staff back in the office too - not ‘working from home’. This may also give us a bit of a tax break, because I know we need it.

Transportation and Traffic - Where do we start? Gridlock every day, in every way. And no solutions in sight - even with that slick new interchange on Hwy 1 in North Vancouver. Not enough is moving. We have a BIG problem. And local government blames the Province, who blames Ottawa, and so on. So what am I voting for here? I’m voting for someone who will at least listen and understand the context of our plight. A person who will acknowledge that you cannot take a senior citizen to their cancer treatment on a bicycle. We cannot continue to cut off access to essential destinations like airports, hospitals and universities. Your hands may be tied on certain items - but we need to know you haven’t given up trying, or more importantly, listening.

Extra, Extra - Affordable housing matters, but I honestly don’t think it can be solved using traditional methods. It’s Vancouver. It will never be ‘affordable’ to people earning average salaries and minimum wage. New development is needed, and it can be good - especially if it comes in the form of nearby services and stores where we don’t have to drive miles to access them. Mostly, I want my family and friends to be safe and to be able to enjoy their community. So I’m voting for the person who sees the need to bring people back home to a thriving streetscape - and where we can find everything we like and need to shop, play, and live local.

In closing, I hope you have a few ideas you want to speak out about, because now is the time. Just remember - your vote counts! And we’re all in this together. And together is the only way to help make good things happen. And that gets my vote, every time.

Catherine (Cat) Barr - catbarr@turnernewsmedia.com

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WEBSTER AWARDS

From the 1950s to the 1990s, the name Jack Webster struck a chord of both fear and fame in the hearts of BC politicians and more. Known as the ‘King of the Airwaves’, those of us lucky to have known him remember him as one of the most forthright and formidable storytellers ever to ‘lede’ the way. Last month, news professionals from all over BC gathered at the Hotel Vancouver for an in-person celebration of the awards named in his honour. The evening was a chance for co-workers from competing outlets to reacquaint and celebrate the list of this year’s 2022 Webster Awards nominees. The winners will be announced online on November 3rd, so be sure and stay tuned. Our congrats to all nominees on a job well done.

Co-workers who now co-anchor at different stations, Global TV’s Coleen Christie, left, and CTV’s Nafeesa Karim hold down the desk with style.

Taking it to the streets, reporters Alissa Thibault and Michele Brunoro celebrate with fellow co-workers from CTV News.

Event host Mi-Jung Lee chats with living legend, and one of the best story tellers in news history, George Garrett

Global TV’s Sophie Lui, left, and Jack Webster Foundation board member Joy Jennison join in the celebrtion.

Toasting the occasion are VIP guests Christina Otero, left, and Shalina Kajani

Jody Vance, left, and Lynda Steele are back on the air celebrating the launch of their new Chek TV show.

Making headlines for telling some of the province’s best stories at CTV News are Andrew Johnson, left, and Ben Miljure

Vancouver Int’l Film Festival Festival Picks

From Woody Harrelson, in Triangle of Sadness, to Brendan Fraser in The Whale, to Sarah Polley and Women Talking, this is the year everyone is talking about at the 2022 Vancouver International Film Festival. Check out the best of the fest, and some ‘reel’ life recommendations in this interview with executive director Kyle Fostner.

By Catherine (Cat) Barr catbarr@turnernewsmedia.com

CAT: Welcome everybody. Catherine Barr here. We’re back with another episode of West Vancouver Magazine / Turner Magazine podcast. You can find us on Apple. You can find us on Spotify. But coming up, you’re going to find us on the red carpet because I have another fabulously exciting guest here with me today. It is Kyle Fostner, executive director of the Vancouver International Film Festival. All you film buffs will want to know this man because he knows everything there is to know about the upcoming festival. Kyle, welcome to our show.

KYLE: Thank you. Great to be here.

CAT: Now, you’ve probably had a really hectic few weeks here. As the new Executive Director, tell us a little bit about yourself and how you came to the Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF).

KYLE: Sure, thank you. It’s true that my background is in music. I have always known that I wanted to be in the arts. I spent my 20s on the art side of things, making video art but also as an aspiring musician. I lived and worked in Montreal and released records, toured and did that whole business. Then I found myself working in music venues and worked my way up from the very bottom as a handyman to the general manager. I did this for about six to eight years before my partner and I moved out here to be closer to her family. When we arrived, I didn’t want to work in music any longer. So I dabbled in film production, and that opened the doors wider. I started as a venue manager for VIFF and quite literally worked my way back up again. This is the first full-tilt role at the festival since taking over, so I’m both excited and terrified.

At top: Woody Harrelson in the satirical comedy disaster

Triangle of Sadness Above: Two-time Emmynominated composer Michael Abels performs with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

CAT: Well congratulations on everything. It takes a lot to get a festival like this off the ground, and there are so many people behind the scenes. And that’s something I really love about the Vancouver International Film Festival. There isn’t just an emphasis on the red carpets and the actors and stars - there’s a lot of focus on writers, directors, musicians and more. It is about the fundamentals. It’s about all the people who work in the industry.

KYLE: The days of festivals being about ‘just going to the movies’ are over, to be honest. I think that we all spent the past few years getting through periods of isolation through streaming films, and we were able to do it on our terms. We’ve all got subscriptions to the many streaming services out there. So, you know, binge-watching is an option that’s available to everyone in

people who want to explore film culture beyond just the simple cinematic experience. The series is a way to find our favourite creators from around the world and then connect them with Vancouver audiences. We had a free online talk called ‘With Dean Fleischer Camp’, who’s the director and leader of Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, a 2021 comedy. It started as a viral video, and it just went wild. It’s an adorable heartwrenching animation of this little tiny shell with a single eye and these tiny shoes and the adventures it goes on.

And then we have the industry conversations. We are doing lots of artistic development on top of that this year. Cool talks. One is about this little series called Star Trek (he says sarcastically), and then a few other series that are on Apple and Netflix. This is a conversation where they’re going to talk about their process, and these people are involved in some of the most compelling sci-fi stories ever made.

CAT: Wow. So I’m a big Star Trek fan, and also a big movie fan. But I have to admit I do love to see some of the bigger stars coming out and supporting independent films and smaller films that aren’t necessarily Hollywood blockbusters. There are two films here I’m looking forward to seeing. The first film stars Woody Harrelson in a comedic satire called Triangle of Sadness. So what’s your take on this film Kyle?

yacht. Woody plays the ship’s captain, and he kind of doesn’t like associating with these people. Then a storm hits, and all sorts of bad things start to happen. You’ll have to see it to find out.

their lives all the time. What VIFF offers is a deeper experience. The world is full of film festivals of all shapes and sizes, so it’s really important as a festival planner to define yourselves by your strengths.

From the written word to the visual image to the sound behind it, film is a creative decision. We are not concerned with celebrity and are not concerned with the endless red carpets and the sponsors. We’re an audience-first festival. We’re here for the community.

CAT: And there’s so much inclusiveness here at the Vancouver festival. There’s diversity and variety and so much to take in. There are talks, speakers, and even a night with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra performing live. Tell us a little bit more about these features.

KYLE: So the ‘Talks’ series is one that I’m really proud of. It’s the bridge between industry and the general public. It’s for

KYLE: It’s not as sad as it sounds. It is a satire by Ruben Ostlund. This film is going to be incredible, right from the outset. It’s wild. It’s absurd. So while it has the name Triangle of Sadness, that’s a mocking tone to apply to the film. Woody excels in these borderline characters between happy and sad - between, you know, relatable and disgusting.

CAT: Well, Woody Harrelson is one of the best actors around. He started as this innocent farm boy character on the TV comedy Cheers - and then, much to everyone’s surprise, he went on to become this violent serial killer in Oliver Stone’s controversial Natural Born Killers. He brought this psychotic character to life in a way that made us love him and loathe him. Then in 2017, he was nominated for just about everything, including an Oscar, for his role in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri, which was outstanding. But now he’s in this film about a group of rich people, or ‘influencers’, on this luxury

So another film getting a lot of buzz is called The Whale, and it stars another of Hollywood’s handsome faces, Brendan Fraser. Not many people know his parents are Canadian, but lots of people know him from comedy movies like The Mummy and George of the Jungle. In the case of The Whale, you might not recognize him at all because he’s made up with layers of latex to play the role of Charlie, a morbidly obese and lost man who is looking to reconnect with his daughter and a lost lover. Tell us a little about this film.

KYLE: Yes, this film is by renowned filmmaker Darren Aronofsky. It’s a heavy film, and it’s a heavy subject. I have lots of family members that have obesity issues, and it’s something that’s a little offensive to me. I think there’s lots of dialogue created by this film - in and out of that community. Brendan did a remarkably touching job, and I think he takes his acting career to a completely new level here. It’s a really hard watch at times, but also it’s a really human story.

CAT: So these films are screening at the festival, but you will be able to see them beyond the festival too. What is on your list Kyle?

KYLE: The new Sarah Polley film will be a hit. Sarah is a rising star. She’s going to be held in the highest regard in terms of directors moving forward for her film Women Talking.

I’m also really interested in a documentary about legendary local choreographer Crystal Pite, called Angel’s Atlas. I am

Almost unrecognizable as the morbidly obese ‘Charlie’ in the acclaimed film The Whale, actor Brendan Fraser takes on the role of a lifetime

New to the role, but not new to the scene, meet VIFF Executive Director Kyle Fostner

Photo credits: VIFF, Eric Schwabel, Vito Amati, used with permission.

We need to execute a complete fiscal, organizational, and governance overhaul, incorporating valuable citizen participation in decision-making, to urgently reset our priorities (REFORM).

We need to finish all of our missing LAPs and District plans on housing, transportation, economic development, environment, etc in the first 12-18 months, otherwise Council will keep making ad hoc decisions (REDRESS).

Finally, we need a Mayor and Council that will truly champion West Vancouver and fight for innovative transportation solutions (RESOLVE) that meet our needs.

If you haven’t already, visit my website and read my detailed and specific Blueprint for Hope. Compare it to those running against me and decide if you want an ACTUAL plan for real change today, so that we can have hope for tomorrow. Let’s do this together!

also excited about Anthony Shims’ Riceboy Sleeps, which is very local. It’s a story about a young, South Korean immigrant and his mother and his relationship with her in Vancouver.

I also highly recommend a live performance by a local band called ‘Big Kill: A Symphony of Horror’, which is a completely unique electronic music performance. It’s going to be held in St. Andrew’s church, and the band plays live during a screening of the original Dracula movie Nosferatu, which is 100 years old (1922).

And speaking of music, Michael Abels is the composer best known for his work for Jordan Peele films. Michael is going to be here discussing his process, his career, his time as a black classical musician and composer and then transitioning into film scores. He’s also going to play with a 40-piece Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

CAT: Sounds like you and I are both big music lovers. I mean, a good music score can make or break a film. If it’s wrong, a scene that was supposed to be dramatic could end up being comedic or worse.

KYLE: Whether it is the foley, the artistry, or the delivery of the lines themselves, it’s the soundtracks that make the difference. So there’s an under-explored but incredibly rich art form here that is very much part of cinema. We are really fortunate to have Michael come and be the keynote conversation. He is going to blow everyone’s minds.

CAT: From big screens to small streams, to just plain screaming out loud and cheering for your film faves - our thanks again today to executive director Kyle Foster. Kyle, you have to promise me you’ll come back and talk to us again soon. Will you come back and visit us one day?

KYLE: Just try and stop me.

CAT: Ha. Perfect. You heard it folks. And thank you all for joining us. Don’t forget to look us up online on Spotify and Apple Podcastsand also via our websites. And until next time, I hope you will stay in touch, and save me a smile.

This story was produced using segments from a live podcast interview. Listen to the full podcast online at westvancouver.com/podcasts

Canadian actress, writer, director, and producer Sarah Polley is all the buzz with Women Talking

LIMITED EDITION DOUGLAS COUPLAND PRINT AVAILABLE NOW

In an edition of 40, to raise important funds for Arts Umbrella, this exclusive print edition of Space Face (Ruth), is a generous gift by Douglas Coupland. Each work is signed and numbered by the artist.

The funds raised from this extraordinary gift will increase Arts Umbrella’s ability to achieve its mission of serving young people through arts education.

To learn more about the inspiration behind this piece and to purchase a print, visit www.SplashArtAuction.com.

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LIONS GATE HOSPITAL FOUNDATION NIP AND TUCK

Hawaiian shirts, grass skirts, food trucks and a live DJ spinning the tunes. The Lions Gate Hospital Foundation’s annual Nip and Tuck lawn bowling event took place last month under sunny skies at the North Vancouver Lawn Bowling Club. Teaming up for a good cause, along with a few prizes and surprises, was all part of this fun fundraiser sponsored by Anthem Properties.

Fun for the foundation. Vice president Louise Campbell, left, joins CEO and president Judy Savage in welcoming players and teams.

DJ Buddha Sax, aka Arturo Fermill, had everyone dancing in the lanes with some tropical themed tunes.

Three cheers for head nurse Krista McPhail, right, seen here with friends Natalia and Daniel Stenz, for all her hard work and leadership.

Joanne Perreault and Wesley Burke help sell raffle balloons full of prizes.

Looking good on and off the green are Avril Paddock, from left, Meghan Knight, Claire McNish and Ali London

Dr. Kevin Rowan, left, Stacy Chala, and MC Kyle McLellan check out the food trucks and auction items up for grabs.

Dr. Allan Burgmann, centre, was literally all smiles as his team showed up in tribute shirts covered in his image. From left, Rebecca Owen, Samantha Watkins, Shane Loukianoff and Chelsea Campbell

Dr. Patrick McDonald and wife Jennifer, left, team up with super volunteer Mehri Parsi before the games begin.

‘Lei’ your bets on this winning team with Michael Hamman, from left, Chad Cousins and Mark Chala

Cat’s Meow

By Catherine (Cat) Barr

October 2022

Vancouver Board of Trade’s Bridgitte Andersen put former BC Premier and Canadian High Commissioner to the UK, Gordon Campbell on the hot seat at the Terminal City Club’s Zajac Ranch luncheon event. The retired politician lit up the room as he entertained questions from the crowd, all in support of Zajac Ranch.

Michelle Gentis, seen here with philanthropist and event sponsor Joanne Brown, spoke with passion about the positive role the Zajac Ranch has played in her son’s life.

Long-time volunteers like Maggie Pappas and Peter Scholefield were among the honourees at the West Vancouver volunteer appreciation night.

Constantly giving back to the community and the kids in need, Wendy and Mel Zajac hosted friends at the Gordon Campbell luncheon event at Terminal City Club.

Barbara Hunter and Gerry Humphries salute friends and community friendship at West Vancouver’s volunteer celebration night.

Carmen Zajac, left, and Wendy Hartley work tireless raising money for the Zajac Ranch for children so that special kids can continue to have special memories.

Community volunteers like Brittney Guthrie, left, and Susie Alexander were honoured along with others at a special celebration in West Vancouver at the Gleneagles clubhouse.

The show will go on at the Kay Meek Arts Centre with the introduction of new executive director Jon Paul Walden, centre, seen here with team members Lenore Swenerton, from left, Betsy Gibbons, Andy Krawczyk and Pat Bowles

Three cheers for West Coast Whisky Society founders and friends who finally got to hoist a dram together in person at their annual BBQ and tasting event. From left: Daryl Hatton, Michael Hubbard, Dave Mason, Tim Walger, aka ‘The WCWS Executive Suite’. Slàinte mhath!

The last days of summer were spent sampling some of the best scotch around with friends at the West Coast Whisky event. From left: Mark Ballard, Fraser Cooper and Beth Thompson

Beautifully decorated picnic tables and fabulous food were all part of the fun for Suzanne Cooper, left, and Jan Ballard at the West Coast Whisky event.

Appreciating the finer things in life, Chris Doll shows off a rare bottle of Jura single malt at the West Coast Whisky BBQ and tasting.

Heidi, Heidi, whoa! Double trouble for sure as Heidi Pullem, left, joins host Heidi Mason in her beautiful backyard for a toast at the West Coast Whisky Society’s BBQ soiree.

Membership has its privileges. West Coast Whisky Society member Rex Panther, left, and guest Craig Turner enjoy the annual summer soiree and tasting event BBQ.

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PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORTIVE CARE

Being told you have cancer can be devastating. But now, thanks to the Prostate Cancer Supportive Care Program (PCSC), those who receive this diagnosis can access a wide-ranging series of services to help them cope with this delicate and sometimes life-changing disease. A comprehensive series of modules, ranging from new treatments to diet and exercise to sexual impact, provides much-needed information for patients, their families, and partners. An elegant inaugural fundraising dinner was held recently at the Vancouver Club where guests learned about medical advances and solutions that provide groundbreaking care. A tough topic made even tougher via silence, it’s time we started talking out loud. Because no one needs to suffer alone anymore. For more information, go to pcscprogram.ca or dontchangemuch.ca to keep the conversation going.

Bernadette and Mike Dunnigan

Jenna Bentley, left, with speaker/urologist Dr Ryan Flannigan and Eugenia Wu

Dr Liz McLeman and husband Scott, at left, with Steve and Magda Dizep

Initio’s Dr Phil Cohen with PCSC medical director Dr Celestia (Tia) Higano

John and Lucy DeVita

Devina and Paul Zalesky

Presenting sponsor Mina Bechai, left, of Initio Nuclear Medicine, with PCSC provincial program manager Monita Sundar Dunn and speaker / director of development Dr Larry Goldenberg

Ming Shen, from left, with Cindy Lee, Noreen Singh and Regina Wilken

BRING INSPIRED LIFE TO YOUR SPACE

Very VeryViolet

Weber Q1200 Portable Liquid Propane BBQ homedepot.ca

Great performance and sleek styling with new aesthetics that are both functional and fun, including new handles and control knobs. Built to last and go anywhere, this grill has it all. $349

TAG Heuer Monaco Limited Edition Timepiece tagheuer.com

A rebellious take on the iconic, original TAG Heuer Monaco, this unisex model is complete with a daring smokey purple brushed 39mm dial and contrasting black subdials. Automatic movement. Limited to 500 pieces only.

$8,900

2022 Lucid Air lucidmotors.com

A new contender in the luxury EV space, the Lucid Air is now in Vancouver and ready to view at their Pacific Centre showroom. Impressive features, beautiful design queues, mighty performance and strong warranties will make this a winner in Canada.

$121,500

Empress 1908 indigo Gin bcliquorstores.com

Made in Victoria, what sets Empress gin apart from other bottles on the shelf is its strikingly beautiful violet hue. Made with butterfly pea blossom, this botanical creates not only tasty cocktails, but visually appealing drinks too. Anytime is time for gin. $54

All prices are in CDN dollars and are approximate. May sell for lower or higher. Want to recommend a product to feature on this page, email news@westvancouver.com

Rosenthal Heritage Champagne Flute herzogcrystal.com

Brighten up your next cocktail party with this crystal stemware. Crafted from mouth-blown glass, this elegant Champagne glass features a flawless finish. Pair with other matching glassware from Rosenthal to complete the look.

$78

Women’s Rimowa Salsa Air Spinner Suitcase rimowa.com

There is luggage and then there is Rimowa. The best of materials and craftsmanship result in solid, lightweight, yet incredibly durable rollalongs. This 29” case is no exception. Rimowa pieces are built in Germany and made for life. You get what you pay for!

$639

Girl’s Witch Costume

thebay.com

Your chilld will be the envy of the neighbourhood this Halloween. The hat and dress combination work together to create an impressive look that will be comfortable and wear well. Broomstick sold separately.

$50

Yes We Vibe - Custom Made Sneakers yeswevibe.com

Finally: High quality, long lasting casual shoes that are built just for you. In 3-5 weeks, you will have new pair of footware that fits perfectly, looks great and has a great guarantee to boot. Super comfortable and available in many sizes and cool colours.

$120

Brazilian Ametrine and Diamond Pendant

Lugaro.com

The 14K white gold setting features a 13 carat rectangular cut Ametrine, accented by seven, round brilliant cut diamonds.

The delicate chain and loop give way to a stone that jumps into view and makes any woman look their best.

$850

Decorative, delicate lace along the cup and strap sections make this bra graceful and airy. A sparkling Swarovski charm in the centre catches the eye and directs the gaze towards your beautifully shaped cleavage. Available in F-J cups and 32-42 bands.

$120

Jet BMX Block Bike sourcebmx.com

It’s unheard of to get 3-piece cranks, sealed hubs and bearings at this price point. All of these things mean the bike is lighter, stronger and harder wearing than parts normally found at this price. One tough bike that can take a beating for a very long time.

$615

Selma Underwire Bra by Anita dianeslingerie.com

About Mail in Ballots

Like the 2022 provincial and 2021 federal elections, voters are encouraged to vote in the October 15 municipal elections by mail from their own home. Or a park bench. Or the nearest cafe — but don’t spill that latte! While the concept of online voting isn’t a thing (not secure enough yet), good ol’ fashioned paper and envelopes within envelopes are here to stay as an option.

- By Bob Mackin bob@thebreaker.news

01 HISTORY

Absentee voting by mail in the U.S. dates back to the Civil War. In Canada, in time for the 1940 federal election, cabinet allowed soldiers to vote by mail under the War Measures Act. By the 1945 election, 342,000 members of the military got to vote by mail. It took another five decades to allow all citizens traveling or living outside Canada temporarily to use the envelope-within-envelope system to vote from afar. In 2021’s snap federal election, Elections Canada said it received “more than 700,000 special ballots by mail, a sharp increase from the roughly 55,000 received in the 43rd general election in October 2019.”

02 BC 2020

When Premier John Horgan called a snap election in September 2020, right smack dab in the middle of the pandemic’s first year, Elections BC expected a 35% increase in voting by mail. It had been a little-used option for three decades, typically fewer than 1% of voters used the mail option. Elections BC counted 596,287 votes by mail, up from the 6,517 in 2017, and spent $2.7 million on postal and related services.

03 ALL MAIL, ALL THE TIME

Voting in church basements and school gyms has gone the way of the dodo bird in neighbouring Washington State. In 1983, the Evergreen State allowed vote-by-mail by-elections. Anyone could apply in 1991, in writing, to be an absentee voter by mail. In 2005, the Legislature decided to allow counties to choose vote-by-mail as a permanent option. By 2011, with 38 of the state’s 39 counties signed-on, the Legislature made it statewide. A 2020 survey on performance of American elections found 70% of voters in Washington return their ballots to a dedicated drop box or local election office, rather than using the U.S. Postal Service.

04 ALL MAIL BC ISSUES

A grand experiment in democracy in 2002, when the BC Liberals asked British Columbians to vote on treaty negotiations with First Nations. Eighty-percent of the 763,480 ballots agreed with the government proposals. Almost a decade later, voters used mail-in ballots to extinguish the Harmonized Sales Tax. In 2015, those in Metro Vancouver gave thumbs down to a sales tax increase to fund TransLink expansion. Finally, in 2018, a majority of voters pooh-poohed a suite of complicated electoral reform proposals and opted to keep first past the post for provincial elections.

05 IT’S YOUR CHOICE

So you decide to vote by mail from the comfort of your home - but regardless of location, it’s your vote and only your vote. The secret ballot principle applies, just as if you were in a booth at a church basement or school gym. Vote buying and intimidation are illegal. So is gathering ballots from neighbours and friends, or ‘harvesting’ votes to vote more than once. The Election Act states that an individual is prohibited from offering or accepting anything to cause someone to vote or not vote, or to choose or not choose a certain candidate. The maximum fine is $20,000 and two years in jail.

Bob Mackin is a North Vancouver journalist who specializes in politics, business and sports coverage. He publishes theBreaker.news and hosts theBreaker.news Podcast online.

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RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE GALA

Ronald McDonald House BC & Yukon (RMH BC) hosted their 18th annual

A Night to Dream Gala, presented by Beedie, which raised $600,000 in gross proceeds, equivalent to 4,000 nights of comfort for families at RMH BC. Over 300 VIP guests, business and community leaders, including RMH BC’s CEO, Richard Pass, joined together for the event at the Westin Bayshore in Vancouver. Glamorous gowns, formal dinner, live and silent auction items and heartwarming stories rounded out this night that was really all about the kids and families that need support as they fight some of the toughest moments in their lives. Congrats to all involved.

Gala committee chair Laura Patrick, left, joins fellow committee member Joanna Clark to welcome guests.

Residential designer Jamie Banfield, left, and Brett Vincent are big supporters of the Ronald McDonald House organization.

The Fry family spent 161 nights with Ronald McDonald House while son Savan battled his way through a devastating brain tumour. Tonight they celebrate the love of life together. From left: daughter Sabryn, mom Juliana, son Savan and daughter Gabrielle

Justin Segal and wife Yael, left, join MC and auctioneer extraordinaire Howard Blank during the welcome reception.

Former board chair Tracey Arnish chats with Richard Pass, CEO Ronald McDonald House.

A toast to friends and fundraising for a very good cause with Angela Scardillo, left, and Nicola Lambrechts Fashionista and gala committee member Alexandra Thompson, of Wardrobe Apparel Inc, rocks the room with in a silver glitter gown.

Cheers for these glam girl hosts who helped make it all happen - 94.5 Virign radio’s Holly Conway, left, and Global TV meteorologist Kristi Gordon

Real Estate Professionals

l 604-913-9000

The Ballard 360 team is led by Mark Ballard, with decades in real estate and mortgage brokerage experience. Caylee Sampson has been an integral part of the team for many years and James Barnes is the hard-working newest member. Ballard 360 brings creativity, local knowledge and passion.

l 604-351-5211

A respected leader in North Vancouver and West Vancouver home sales, Eric has consistently established himself as one of the highest producing Realtors® year after year. He has sold the two highest recorded sales in West Vancouver’s history. Service and knowledge make the difference.

Marketing your home by leveraging the power of the brand. Sotheby’s International Realty is partnered with and distributes properties to the most significant media companies and real estate focused websites in the world. Local Expertise, Global Connections.

Jesse’s happy clients rave about his work ethic, integrity, negotiation skills, responsive communication style and world class marketing.

Homes by Westgate is an exceptional builder.

Located in West Vancouver, we have been in the local development and construction industry for over ten years.

We are here to assist you with your project so the results are not just “good enough”, they are great. That is our promise.

North Vancouver

On October 15, 2022, voters in the District of North Vancouver and the City of North Vancouver will head to the polls to elect one (1) mayor, six meeting you. And since this page is neither meant as an endorsement nor recommendation for any candidate, we encourage you to be sure to

Kulvir Mann

North Van District - School Board www.kulvirmann.ca

I am seeking re-election as NVSD School Board Trustee. I have 2 children and been a resident for over 20 years. I believe all students should have a sense of place and belonging regardless of their ability, ethnicity or gender – including access to inclusive and safe learning environments with resources and programs available that allow all students to thrive.

Jim Hanson

North Van District - Councillor

www.jimhanson2022.ca

I will prioritize affordable and rental housing, investments in active transportation, and green space protection. I will demand a commitment for rapid transit to and from the North Shore. Believing public investments must improve quality of life for all, I strive for maximum effectiveness from each dollar spent by North Vancouver District.

Jordan Back

North Van District - Councillor

www.jordanback.net

I am running for re-election to DNV Council so I can to continue to be a voice for everyone, from young families to aging seniors. I will support innovative housing solutions, increased transportation options, and creating an environment where small businesses can thrive. I will also work collaboratively across the North Shore to tackle our biggest challenges.

Angela Girard

North Van City - Councillor

www.angelagirard.ca

Community is about people. A caring community is about having small conversations about big issues and genuinely listening and caring for those within our community. My commitment to you, if re-elected, is to listen to your concerns, advocate on your behalf, and take steps to find solutions to ensure our City is livable, affordable, and inclusive for all.

Linda Munro

North Van District - School Board

www.lindamunro.ca

Supporting my community is core to who I am. My priorities are building a sense of belonging at school, supporting mental health & well-being, and engaging in reconciliation through education. When we intentionally build community in classrooms where everyone matters, we can create environments that facilitate learning, growth and success.

Financial Agent - Scott Munro 604-910-2318

Mathew Bond

North Van District - Mayor

www.mathewbond.com

On October 15th, you have a choice to embrace and harness change in a positive way, protecting the legacy and way of life we’ve all worked so hard for while passing it on for future generations to enjoy. As a Professional Engineer, experienced in solving complex problems, I know that together, we can influence positive change. Vote Bond for Mayor.

This page is neither an endorsement nor a recommendation of any candidate.

Financial Agent - Kulvir Mann 604-764-9464

Financial Agent - Angela Girard info@angelagirard.ca

Financial Agent - N Farrell, OfficialAgentHanson2022@gmail.com

Financial Agent - Jordan Back

Financial Agent - Mathew Bond, mathew@mathewbond.com

Election 2022

Cyndi Gerlach

North Van District - School Board

www.cyndigerlach.com

Re-Elect Cyndi Gerlach - Trustee, District of North Vancouver. Dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion. I am seeking my 4th term as Trustee. Questions, ideas, concerns? I would love to talk about your priorities for our District! 604.831.6608 Authorized and approved by the Candidate Cyndi Gerlach.

Holly Back

North Van City - Councillor www.hollyback.ca

It has been such an honour to serve on CNV Council for the past 8 years. I hope to continue with the positive work we have done in creating affordable housing options, leading on climate action, supporting a diverse economy for small businesses to thrive, providing active and sustainable ways for people to move around and creating vibrant public spaces.

Guy Heywood

North Van City - Mayor

www.guyheywood.ca

I love North Vancouver: the people, place, but not the governments. The City listens more to developers than citizens. It is building facilities for all NorthVan at City taxpayers expense because politicians value their autonomy more than your quality of life.

I have the experience and ability to, with your help, get the City government to actually work for us.

Catherine Pope

North Van City - Councillor

www.kathymcgrenera.ca

Fortunate to be born and raised in North Vancouver, Kathy has been a successful business owner, project manager, university instructor, trained facilitator & bookkeeper and community volunteer. She has brought two cohousing communities to North Van, each with affordable units. Kathy has the kinds of skills, energy and experience our community needs on Council.

Financial Agent - Kathy McGrenera, 604-980-7847

North Van District - Councillor

www.CatherinePopeNorthVan.net

I am a working mother who has lived most of my life on the North Shore. As a former journalist with Global TV, I have extensive experience covering municipal issues and politics. Now I’m a communications consultant who contracts with governments, First Nations, and recently the BC Human Rights Commission.

Ellison Mallin

North Van District - Councillor

www.ellisonmallin.ca

On October 15th elect Ellison Mallin for North Vancouver District Council for a future we can belong in. My platform includes a focused approach to tackling affordability challenges, creating proactive and creative transportation solutions, and building healthy and complete communities.

(6) councillors, and four (4) District school trustees + three (3) City school trustees for a four-year term. Here are a few who are looking forward to get to know ALL the candidates who are running by visiting us online at NorthVancouver.com/election - and be sure to get out there and VOTE.

Please also visit dnv.org and cnv.org for full candidate information, voting regulations and polling station locations.

Financial Agent - Holly Back

Financial Agent - C Pope - catherinepopenorthvan@gmail.com

Financial Agent - Guy Heywood, RGuy4Mayor@gmail.com

Financial Agent - Authorized by Ellison Mallin 778-956-7487

Financial Agent - Cyndi Gerlach cyndigerlach@telus.net

Kathy McGrenera

Events Calendar

VANCOUVER FALL HOME SHOW

October 20 - 23

Vancouver Convention Centre

The Show is a vibrant marketplace where you can shop for home-related products and services, experience stunning displays to help inspire your next home project, connect with industry experts, and enjoy informative presentations from local and international home professionals. Always a winner.

vancouverfallhomeshow.com

CANYON FRIGHTS

October 14 -31

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Grab your Halloween crew and family-friendly costumes for tricks, treats and spooktacular good times at Canyon Frights! Decorated with festive pumpkins and spooky displays, the Park is the place to be to celebrate the autumn season and revel in the frightful fun of Halloween.

capbridge.com

VANCOUVER’S NORTH SHORE CRAFT BEER WEEK

November 3 - 12

Shipyards District

Taste and sample the North Shore’s finest craft breweries and enjoy an amazing evening on North Vancouver’s waterfront. Food trucks, live entertainment, prizes and games! Bring your festival spirit and have an evening celebrating fresh, craft beer!

vancouversnorthshore.com

BEYOND KING TUT: THE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

November 4 - January 8

Vancouver Convention Centre

A National Geographic presentation, this cinematic, immersive exhibition takes guests on a journey to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time. Journey to modern-day Egypt and see wonders of ancient times. Travel back 3,000 years to when King Tut ruled the Earth. Amazing visuals. beyondkingtut.com

FRIGHT NIGHT

October 7 - 31

PNE Playland

Prepare to scream your face off, because Playland will once again will transform into a terrifying Halloween-themed experience with seven haunted houses, 15+ rides, creepy decor, roaming monsters and live performances. New this year, an opening “scaremony”, new haunted house props, early admission passes and spooky food options.

frightnights.ca

CORNUCOPIA WHISTLER 2022

November 4 - 20

Various Whistler locations

Take your taste buds to the edge of anticipation at Cornucopia in Whistler, where food and drink are turned loose. There’s no limit to what you can explore when you open your palate to fresh ideas that are full of life and flavour. Join us in the mountains for the ultimate celebration of bold tastes. Tickets go fast! whistlercornucopia.com

Also check online at WestVancouver.com and NorthVancouver.com for complete event listings