Peace Arch News, March 13, 2025

Teacher tops in province

A Semiahmoo Secondary teacher has been recognized as the Teacher of the Year for home economics teaching across British Columbia. Find out what makes textiles teacher Rachel Rogers so worthy of recognition.

› see page A16

‘Growing pains’ facing B.C. Conservatives: MLA

Tricia Weel

With three MLAs leaving the B.C. Conservative Party in one day, two of their former colleagues shared their thoughts on their party’s current state while in South Surrey on Sunday.

Following Vancouver-Quilchena MLA Dallas Brodie’s removal from the Conservative caucus Friday (March 7) after appearing on a video podcast discussing residential schools, two of her fellow MLAs also left the party in the same day – with possible plans to start a new political party.

Peace River North MLA Jordan Kealy and Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream MLA Tara Armstrong announced via Facebook they would both be leaving the party, with both blaming party leder John Rustad.

Conservative house leader A’aliya Warbus, MLA for Chilliwack Cultus-Lake and Surrey-White Rock MLA Trevor Halford, also a Conservative, attended the Semiahmoo First Nation’s annual powwow at Earl Marriott Secondary last Sunday (March

9), and took the time to speak to Peace Arch News about their party.

Warbus, who spoke up against Brodie in a social media post, said at a Semiahmoo First Nation powwow on Sunday that the party is experiencing “growing pains.”

“My feelings are that, as a party, we are continually working to define ourselves since we all decided to work together under the big tent,” she said Sunday (Feb. 9) while enjoying the powwow, an annual tradition at Earl Marriott Secondary in South Surrey for nearly 30 years.

“Big tent is never going to be easy. It’s bound to have its challenges, its moments, its growing pains, and to me (Brodie and other MLAs’ departure) was an example of that. Where we are going to land as a party is going to define us, moving forward, and I believe if we take strong stances on things like our history with Indigenous peoples that we’re going to grow from that and…

The Semiahmoo First Nation Powwow drew performers from around B.C., Alberta and the U.S. to Earl Marriott

Check out more about this year’s event on page 11. (Tricia Weel/Peace Arch News)

Council meeting sheds light on city financial plan

Alex

Browne

City of White Rock staff and council have shed some light on questions raised in the community, in a discussion of a second draft of the 2025-29 Financial Plan at the Feb. 24 council meeting.

Chief administrative officer Guillermo Ferrero and Mayor Megan Knight were at some pains to explain during the meeting that figures relating to city reserves and capital project roll-overs can be misinterpreted, if taken out of context.

In presenting the second draft, financial services director Candice Gartry told council it incorporates final departmental figures and reserve fund balance projections, and projects a tax increase of 4.94 per cent, consistent with the initial draft.

The financial plan bylaw returned to council at the March 10 meeting and received first, second and third readings.

Ferrero and Knight’s comments came after Coun. Christopher Trevelyan followed up on some questions raised earlier in the evening by Gary Gumley of the White Rock Homeowners and Taxpayers Society.

Gumley had noted that cash assets for the city currently stand at more than $180 million.

“We have cash assets for the city of approximately 182 million, just to be clear on that?” Trevelyan asked.

Ferrero agreed, although full details of all city assets – including city-owned land – were not to hand at the meeting.

“What I can tell you about the reserves and the cash – (is) that includes everything,” Ferrero said.

He said that includes DCC (development cost charge) reserves, CAC (community amenity contribution) reserves, along with all capital projects approved by council.

“The important thing to remember for council and the community is that we have $180 million in reserves –roughly – but we have a deficit of our infrastructure of $1 billion – so you actually have only 20 per cent on your bank (amount) to be able to address necessities of the community for the next 20 years,” he said.

“That’s really the number that should be remembered.”

Knight also took the opportunity to add some points.

“When someone gets up and says ‘we have $182 million’ – that $182 million is in all different reserves.

“So it’s not like I can just go write a cheque for the pier, right?

“It’s already been (earmarked) for our roads, our sewers, CACs, whatever it is. We’ve got $182 million total but it’s all been specified in (different categories). If you had a pie chart, (these things) would all have a slice of it.

“It sounds wonderful, it sounds like we’ve got all this money just sitting there, but it’s already been designated for a purpose.”

Gumley had also asked about what appears to be low interest return on the city’s cash assets, judging by current interest rates, but Ferrero answered that full information on interest income in 2023-24 won’t be available until May.

Following up, Trevelyan wondered

what kind of investments the city chooses for assets.

“Council passed a policy last year for investments by the City of White Rock,” Ferrero said.

“Obviously the investments are very regulated, for a municipality, (and) they’re very conservative. Short of interest rates on savings accounts, GICs, short and long-term deposits, we don’t have much more.

“We don’t have any Tesla stocks, so the community can rest assured that we didn’t lose 18 per cent in the last couple of weeks – the investments the city makes are very conservative, because we are handling taxpayers’ money.”

Ferrero said current investments bring an average of 4.7 per cent interest.

He noted that investment revenue was much less 20 years ago, and added that, even as recently as four years ago, the annual average was $1.5 million.

Ferrero said that, as a result of doing better on investments, the city

has since increased interest revenue, in the 2025 budget, to a projected $5 million.

“I hope the city can sustain that for the next few years, because, without having that revenue, we’ll have to make up those extra millions,” he said.

Trevelyan also revisited questions Gumley had about capital works project roll-overs from year to year, and new capital projects being added before others are completed.

“I think the point he was trying to make was, you’ve taken money for various (projects), not done them, and are taking more money for further projects,” Trevelyan said.

“Should we not get some of those done, before we take money for the next project?”

In answer, Ferrero likened municipal budgeting for capital projects to putting money aside for household repairs.

“Let’s say you have a roof in your house that needs repairs. Obviously, you put the money away for that proj-

ect. Perhaps you don’t get to do it that year because you have other priorities, but the project still remains, the roof needs to be replaced, it doesn’t go away.

“In the meantime other things happen – you have a new water tank or you need to change the fencing. And that’s how capital projects keep being added to the list.

“Council has the opportunity to add, remove or simply get rid of a capital project if you choose to –that’s within the plan you approve, the financial plan.

“Obviously, yes, staff would wish to do all these capital projects as fast as possible, but, as you know, sometimes priorities do change, and we struggle with staffing levels and trying to get these things underway. Quite simply, sometimes, it’s nearly impossible to do everything that we want to do for that year.”

Unless it is a cosmetic project it doesn’t go away, Ferrero said, and accumulated capital roll-over will continue every year until that project is completed.

“We can decide not to replace that roof – but there are risks.”

White Rock Community Centre, where city council currently meets. (Alex Browne/Peace Arch News)

Guillermo Ferrero, White Rock CAO

Mayor Megan Knight

RotaryClubofWhiteRock CHARITYBOOKSALE

April4&5:10am-6pmBooks$3each

April6&7:10am-4pmBooks$2each

*April8:10am-4pm$10/bag

Petition urges school board to save elementary band

Sobia Moman

A petition has been started to save Grade 7 band class in the Surrey school district.

In one of many recent decisions made by Surrey trustees to cut costs, elementary band class will be ending, but the community is not backing down without a fight.

A petition started Feb. 26, two days after the announcement from superintendent Mark Pearmain, had surpassed 3,800 signatures by Peace Arch News press deadlines.

“Education in the arts brings benefits far beyond learning an instrument; it fosters creativity, enhances cognitive development, and improves overall academic performance. We need to preserve this enriching outlet for students and uphold our reputation as a community that values music,” reads the petition.

Band class is being impacted as it is not in the B.C. education curriculum and is therefore not funded fully. Pearmain also stated that the district is moving towards aligning with other school districts in the province.

cut to band class is just one of several on the table.

deemed the most in need

Other cuts have seen the closures of three learning centres – Guildford, City Central and South Surrey White Rock – and will also see more cuts coming to StrongStart, a program for children age 0 to 4 to gain a sense of the education system before officially entering it.

As Surrey Schools faces a $16-million shortfall for next year, and trustees have said the

Bus services have also been cut to students who previously received it, with busing now only serving children who are

The petition also calls on the district to keep the position of the fine arts helping teacher, which is also being cut. All non-enrolling teachers, or helping teachers, will be placed back in classrooms to combat the district’s teacher shortage. “The potential long-term loss for our students and community far outweighs any shortterm financial gains. Please sign this petition and stand up for music education in Surrey schools,” it concludes.

A petition has been started to save Grade 7 band in Surrey, which is at-risk for ending due to budget cuts across the district. (Adobe stock photo)

‘Zero tolerance’ for hate or intolerance: Halford

be a solid opposition.”

Conservative Surrey-White Rock MLA Trevor Halford, who was also at the powwow, said it was disappointing to lose MLAs from their party but emphasized he has “zero tolerance” for “anything regarding hate or intolerance.”

“I fully support reconciliation,” he said. “You’re either on the team or you’re not. I’m on the team, and I’m focused on what we need to be focused on,” he added, mentioning the looming U.S. tariffs and potential trade war, among other pressing issues.

Peace Arch News also reached out to Conservative Surrey South MLA Brent Chapman.

The MLAs who left the party appeared for a brief press conference at the legislature in Victoria Monday (March 10). In their social media posts, they blamed the party’s environment and Rustad. All three are listed as independents on the Legislative Assembly of B.C.’s website.

Kealy said he witnessed firsthand how toxic the Conservative Party of B.C. had become. “Some of the worst bullies sit in the legislature, and the B.C. Conservatives are no exception. I stood up for a fellow MLA who was harassed for speaking the truth, only to become a target myself,”Kealy said in his social media post.

“The party has created an environment where some so-called ‘Conser-

vatives’ would rather throw cheap insults than deal with facts. There were no apologies, no accountability, and I refuse to stand with those who either enable or ignore that kind of behaviour.”

Armstrong said that under Rustad’s leadership, “one compromise after another has transformed that party into something I no longer recognize.”

Brodie had come under fire from the public, the NDP and fellow Conservative MLAs for her post to X on Feb. 22 as the party’s then-attorney general critic claiming “apparent mistreatment” of a lawyer who is suing his

own law society for libel after having asked the society to reword training materials around residential schools. In her posts, she said “the confirmed number of child burials at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School site is zero…No one should be afraid of the truth. Not lawyers, their governing bodies, or anyone else.”

Brodie refused to take down the post and posted her letter to Attorney General Niki Sharma on March 4.

On a recent podcast appearance, Rustad said Brodie used “a mocking, child-like voice to belittle testimony from former residential school stu-

dents, saying things like ‘my grandmother’s truth’ and ‘my truth, your truth’ in a child-like ‘whining’ voice.”

He referenced that podcast in his decision to remove her from the caucus.

Brodie has since doubled down on her claims of zero bodies found at residential schools and said the truth is a threat to “powerful vested interests in the multi-billion-dollar reconciliation industry.”

For Warbus, who changed into a beautifully beaded and decorated

outfit to join in at the powwow, separating her personal life from her professional life is key, but she enjoyed the chance to join in the powwow in South Surrey.

“For me, this is my medicine. This is the space where I feel very safe, very supported…very grounded in who I am,” she said. “I have to keep my feet grounded in my culture and my community so that I can be strong in the important work I need to do.” — with files from Lauren Collins

MLA A’aliya Warbus (centre right) said being at the powwow “is my medicine.” (Tricia Weel/Peace Arch News)

Conservative house leader A’aliya Warbus, MLA for Chilliwack Cultus-Lake, and SurreyWhite Rock MLA Trevor Halford at the Semiahmoo First Nation’s annual powwow at Earl Marriott Secondary held last Sunday, March 9. (Tricia Weel/Peace Arch News)

friends

The initial shock has worn off and the reality of the U.S.-Canada tariff war has started to sink in.

On March 4, the United States introduced tariffs of 25 per cent on Canadian goods entering the U.S., while for energy imports, the tariff would be 10 per cent. Canada immediately responded in kind, and the U.S. president has vowed to impose further tariffs on Canadian imports.

The tariffs, and also the president’s repeated comments about annexing Canada, have affected relations between the two countries.

An Angus Reid Institute poll released March 4, the day the tariffs took effect, showed Canada’s warm view of the United States has cooled considerably.

In October 2002, 72 per cent of Canadians surveyed had a

favourable view of the United States. By March 2025, this had fallen to just 24 per cent.

What’s more, the poll showed 51 per cent of Canadians surveyed believe the U.S. is a potential threat or an enemy to Canada’s national interests, while another 24 view the U.S. cautiously.

Earlier, as the U.S. president began ramping up his comments about Canada as a U.S. state, Canadians were not in favour of the idea.

In a poll released on Jan. 31, YouGov.com, a U.K.-based international market research and data analytics firm, 77 per cent of Canadians strongly or somewhat oppose joining U.S. while 15 per cent strongly or somewhat support joining U.S.

In a Feb. 5 Angus Reid poll, 59 per cent of Canadians said

they had a deep emotional attachment to Canada, up from 49 per cent in December 2024. Only four per cent of those surveyed believed Canada should join the United States, down from six per cent in January.

The poll also showed 91 per cent of Canadians believe Canada needs to reduce its reliance on the United States as a trading partner. In 2024, close to 76 per cent of Canada’s total exports and more than 62 per cent of Canada’s total imports were with the U.S.

Canadians no longer feel the same strong connection to the United States as in past years, nor do they want to have the close economic connection the two nations have had in the past.

No matter how the present tariff war and annexation comments play out, the relationship between the United States and Canada will change.

Two countries which once enjoyed close ties will need to look at how to live as neighbours but not necessarily friends.

— Black Press Media

Democracy or oligarchy? It’s Canada’s time to choose

We are living at a moment in history where two interpretations of democracy, each guided by a different set of core values, are being put to the test.

One version – where the people elected to govern are guided by the principle that laws should be made to enhance peace, order and good government – has produced the Canada we are proudly experiencing today.

The other version, where lawmakers are guided by the values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, has produced a different experience

for our neighbours to the south.

True to the sense of who we are as Canadians, this moment should not be one where we stop to gloat over the misfortunes of our neighbours; nor should we bury our heads in the sand and pretend that the existential threat we are facing from the south is not real.

Rather, this is the moment where we pause and soberly reflect on what Canada means to us.

Fortunately, at this critical moment in history, we are also faced with an opportunity to exercise our solemn

duty to select those who will govern us through these turbulent times. The voting decisions we will be making shortly will have consequences long into our future.

Let us prepare for that choice! For those who will be standing for office, understand that Canadians are proudly united and will demand from you clear policy options to navigate through a world that has radically changed since the last American election.

Canadians will expect your “A” game with well-thought-out plans – not concepts of a plan – aligned with our core values.

For voters, the challenge will be to inform ourselves to elect lawmakers who understand that Canadians want

to grow our social and economic legacy – the envy of the world – built by successive generations, on a delicate balance between the exercise of individual freedoms on the one hand and a sense of social responsibility on the other; built on the rule of law that respects the civil and human rights of individuals and yet, holds each one of us accountable for our actions and reminds us of our obligations to each other.

It is, indeed, a legacy celebrating the accomplishments of the past while explicitly acknowledging and learning from the mistakes we have made on our shared journey to shape an inclusive Canada which belongs to us all, and ours to protect.

In 1904, Prime Minister Sir Wilfrid Laurier famously said “the 20th century shall be the century of Canada and Canadian development.”He was partially right.

In the 20th century, Canadian innovation in national policies and contributions at the international level in peacekeeping signalled to the world our maturing nationhood.

The 21st century is where we share with the world the importance of a democracy based on peace, order, and good government; a democracy that works for all of its citizens, not just for those who voted for the winning side.

Ernie Klassen is a White Rock city councillor.

The Crescent Oyster Company, Crescent Beach, with its pile of oyster shells, is seen here in 1936. The Crescent Oyster Company operated along the inner banks of Blackie Spit from 1904 until it was sold in 1957. (Leonard Frank/Vancouver Public Library historical photos 11539)

Ernie Klassen guest column

Crescent Beach is full of ‘nostalgic charm’

Editor,

I am writing this letter about Crescent Beach to remind people what it truly represents – first and foremost, community. Yes, it is a beach, and a beautiful one meant to be shared by all, but what makes it so special is its nostalgic charm.

Crescent Beach somehow takes us back to kinder, gentler times – memories of childhood visits to a quaint little beach with family and friends, of picnics, of walking along gravel paths, pulling wagons filled with pails and shovels, passing by charming cottages. Even if we never had that exact experience, Crescent Beach feels like the kind of place where those memories should be made.

Yes, it can get crowded, and the streets are narrow – but they’ve been that way for a hundred years. The community has evolved, with young families moving in and embracing its unique character, blending both old and new traditions.

All we ask for is respect – respect for our community and for the way Crescent Beach has always been. We welcome visitors from near and far, but there is absolutely no need for more concrete sidewalks or paved roads. That belongs in the city.

Crescent Beach should be preserved for the people – for the families, for the simple joys of a seaside outing, and for the memories that begin the moment you cross the tracks into this truly special place.

Judy Mitchell, Crescent Beach

Community rallied after home invasions

Editor,

Last Wednesday morning, I woke up thinking that I had a nightmare and it took me awhile to realize that what I experienced was real.

I heard a man screaming for help, but not just help; this sounded like someone who feared for his life.

Then I heard glass shattering, all this very close. I woke my husband

and we checked the house, the kids and grabbed the phone to call the police, but realized immediately that there were already six cruisers in front of our house. Someone had called already and they had answered their call for duty fast.

In the aftermath, we learned that a man on substances had invaded a home in the mobile home park we live in, had assaulted two occupants brutally and tried to gain access to more homes. He and his partner were helped to safety by unbelievably brave neighbours.

As a health-care worker myself, lots of thoughts entered my mind: the mental health and drug crisis, the fact that South Surrey/White Rock that we have called home for over 20 years is certainly not safe anymore. But what somehow stuck out to me was some comments from people and in the press about this “obviously” happening in a mobile home park – a stigma, an opinion not rooted in anything.

Breakaway Bays, which our family has called home for the last two years, has never stopped to amaze me. I had great neighbours before, but just now do I know what com-

munity means. There is a crochet group, who give their artsy creations to people in need, a yoga teacher who teaches yoga for free because it makes people feel better, lots of willing volunteers for bingo night, plant swaps, baking sales, the library. Neighbours who lost their home to a fire were more concerned with other people’s well-being than their own.

One of the ladies here has a dog library in front of her home with treats, balls and bags, and she and her husband are always there for everyone, moving the world, making me think I want to be her when I grow up.

So the evening after the invasion there was an emergency meeting where people rallied to cook for the injured, revive the neighbourhood watch, and discussed many other things for improvement.

We live in a mobile home park, but it is the sort of place you don’t find often anymore – the sort of place where people do look out for each other and don’t look away, the sort of place people of today’s world can just dare to dream of.

Andrea Schneider, Surrey

Quit whining about the time change

Editor,

I get so tired of the twice yearly whining about changing the clocks, and unfortunately last week the Peace Arch News joined in the garment rending.

I don’t suppose the complainers would ever take a holiday in Alberta? My goodness, that would be two clock changes in a couple of weeks! England? Unthinkable. Eight hours change, twice over. Three weeks in New Zealand would put one in hospital suffering from TCT (Time Change Trauma).

Come on, people. We have daylight saving time partly because no one needs sunrise at four a.m. in June, and standard time so that kids aren’t walking to school in the pitch dark in December. It’s one hour. Deal with it.

Neil Fawcett, White Rock

Education isn’t ‘one

Editor,

As one who worked in SD36 for a number of years, mostly at a local high school, I got to visit a couple of learning centres in the district. My impression was one of calm good will.

These young people, who, for diverse reasons, found they could not cope among up to 2,000 peers, found

success in the one-on-one caring atmosphere of the learning centre.

After retirement, I volunteered at the Kent Street Coffee Shop, and students from the Learning Centre would come in yearly for a kind of work experience. They were wonderful, and the affection between them and their supervising teacher was obvious. (A

couple volunteered with us on their own for longer stretches.)

An alternative class in a huge school is not the answer for everyone. Education is not a One Size Fits All. Please revisit this idea of closing the centres and lobby harder for the funding from the province.

Michele McManus,

White Rock

“Crescent Beach somehow takes us back to kinder, gentler times — memories of childhood visits to a quaint little beach.” – Judy Mitchell

(please include full contact

Current and former students, parents, faculty and politicians gathered for a rally in front of the South Surrey White Rock Learning Centre in Surrey on Saturday, Jan. 25. This letter writer wants to see the Surrey school board lobby harder for funding to keep the centre open.

(Anna Burns/Black Press Media files)

Shouldyoufinanceyour nextvehicle?

Clientsoftenaskiftheyshouldtakemoneyfromtheirportfolio tobuyavehicleorfinanceitinstead.Therightchoicedepends onpersonalcircumstancesandlong-termgoals.

Payingcash

Forthosewhocan,payingcashcanbeappealing.

• Nointerestpayments

• Nomonthlybills

• Betternegotiatingpower

• Peaceofmind

Payingcashisthemostconservativeoption,butit’simportant toconsiderthenegativeconsequencesoftriggeringcapital gains,orincreasedtaxesthatmayapplywhenwithdrawing fromcertaintypesofinvestmentplans.

Financing

Financingcanbeattractivewheninterestratesarelowand yourinvestmentsareperformingwell.Alineofcreditmayoffer betterinterestratesthandealershipfinancing.

• Preserveinvestments

• Low-interestadvantage

• Spreadoutcosts

Makingtherightchoice

Whendecidingbetweencashandfinancing,consider:

• Investmentreturns

• Taximplications

• Cashflow

• Long-termgoals

Beforemakinganymajorfinancialdecision,it'simportantto consultwithaprofessionalwhocanassessyourunique situation,helpyouunderstandpotentialtaximplicationsand ensureyourchoicealignswithyourlong-termfinancialgoals.

ReadmorefromDaveLeeonlineat: www.dave-lee.ca/publications

DaveLee, CIM,® CFP,FCSI SeniorWealthAdvisor ScotiaMcLeod,® adivisionofScotiaCapitalInc.

dave-lee.ca

604.535.4743

Peace Arch News

Women have come a long way in my lifetime

Editor,

I was born on Dec. 21, 1951. Many changes have occurred for women in my lifetime. It is important that we share with younger generations what we have experienced in each decade and strive to enlighten younger women to have inner strength and retain their ability to strive for equality for women.

During the 1950s, a woman was expected to stay at home. The husband was “head of the family.” Many women were forced to stay in unhappy marriages with physical, mental and or sexual abuse plus adultery as how would she support her children on her own? Girls had to wear dresses to school even in freezing weather!

The 1960s was the decade women started entering the workforce, but they were paid less to do the same job as “men had families to support.” Women did not receive pensions. Most jobs were restricted to men only! Women were also expected to continue doing all chores at home as well the job outside of the home.

Up until the 1970s, it was not considered rape if a man forced his wife to have sex against her wishes. In 1970, a woman could not own property in Quebec, and everywhere else in Canada a woman needed a man to cosign for a mortgage on a home.

In 1976, when my husband at the time and I bought the house I now live in, the bank would only accept 30 per cent of my salary toward the mortgage on our home because “what if I became pregnant?” In 1970, while working at the BC Ferries, we had to go to the human rights commission to receive the same salary as the men doing the same job as us.

I was the first person permitted to work while pregnant. Before that time, women were forced to quit their job as soon as anyone found out they were pregnant. I was harassed multiple times each day by my boss, and he would point

at me and say, “Look at the watermelon I have working for me”! The sexual harassment was overwhelming at work with no recourse. In the 1980s I became a single parent. During my marriage, we had a joint credit card. Upon our divorce, I applied for a credit card and I was told I had no credit rating! Only the man retained a credit card rating on a joint card. I had to ask my mother to cosign for me to obtain a credit card. I received child support and at that time (although all the money was going to support my children), it was consider part of “my income.” I generally paid $1,000 in income tax for the “privilege” of receiving child support, and fathers were able to deduct the amount of money they paid for child support on their income tax.

During the 1990s women were still fighting for the right to do jobs considered “men’s work.” Whenever women started in one of these jobs (and this is still the case today), women have had to stay so strong as the harassment from men (including rape in some cases) has been horrific! I could go on and on through each decade. The U.S.A. has reversed “Roe vs. Wade.” Whether you are for or against abortion, men should be held equally responsible for the conception of a child! Why isn’t there a law (with DNA tests available), to force men to pay child support if women are going to be forced to have children? I wish to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to the following women for their tireless effort to make life better for all women: the “suffragettes” (who fought for women to have the right to vote), Ruth Bader Ginsburg (lawyer and Supreme Court judge), Gloria Steinem (female activist), Gloria Allred (lawyer who specializes in representing women in court), and to all the women who have helped in some way to pave the way to equality for women.

Janis Lowe, White Rock

‘Spin’ is unfair to residents

Editor,

The mayor and two female city councillors of White Rock are deliberately manipulating the conversation to fit their own agenda while ignoring or discrediting opposing voices. By distorting the narrative, they create a false sense of victimhood to gain sympathy and support, all while pushing forward policies – like highrise developments –that many White Rock residents strongly oppose. Their ability to “spin” issues, whether it’s overdevelopment or even discussions on misogyny, serves as a tactic to divert attention from the real concerns of the community. Instead of engaging in genuine dialogue, they reshape the debate to suit their interests, making it difficult for residents to hold them accountable.

It’s interesting how these three ladies have framed their stance on major development issues in the city.

While the majority of White Rock residents oppose the construction of large towers, these

leaders have spoken eloquently about supporting the Official Community Plan (OCP) and the importance of listening to the community.

At the same time, they have actively promoted highrise developments, arguing that such projects will improve walkability and lower taxes – claims that many residents view with skepticism. Their push for a new city hall, potentially between 12 and 31 stories high (dubbed “The Hub”), along with the North Bluff Road Study, reflects a strong commitment to densification, despite public opposition.

Interestingly, these leaders have also engaged in discussions about misogyny, yet some of their own rhetoric has included dismissive language toward concerned residents, labellling them as “liars” and “NIMBYs.” Their ability to spin narratives on multiple fronts raises questions about whose interests they truly serve.

Ladies, if it’s too hot in the kitchen, get out.

Fiona MacDermid, White Rock

White Rock OKs early morning dog-walking on promenade

Alex Browne

Leashed dog-walking on White Rock’s promenade will soon be a year-round activity.

At Monday’s meeting, council approved staff bringing forward an amendment to the city’s animal control and licensing bylaw to permit walking dogs on the promenade between 5:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. in the spring and summer months from April through October.

Under the current bylaw, leashed dogs are only permitted on the promenade daily from Oct. 1 through March 31.

A report to council from planning and development services director Anne Berry noted there had been no documented complaints as a result of a pilot program of summer dog walking from 5:30 to 9 a.m., conducted in August and September of last year.

“We don’t have any statistical data that was collected as to the number of dogs and owners that we might have seen participating in this pilot program, but we can report that at the 9 a.m. time that the pilot program cut off, we don’t have any reports of any real spillover that occurred with people continuing to walk the promenade (with their dogs),” Berry said.

staff got the sense, from community members they spoke to, that people were happy with the program and didn’t raise any concerns with it.”

“We also don’t have any formal complaints that were submitted with regards to this pilot program, and, generally speaking, our bylaw

Berry said that, from staff’s standpoint, they generally witnessed compliance, and considered the pilot program a success, and recommended the amendment.

“I’ve noticed that dog walkers band together, and they say ‘OK – we want to have a success – if we saw anything we would pick up the dog poo, so that it wouldn’t be left behind.’”

A motion from Coun. David Chesney to direct staff to bring forward the amendment was passed unanimously.

Coun. Elaine Cheung, who had advocated for the pilot program, said she had visited the waterfront frequently last year to check on how it had been going.

White Rock RCMP want your say in community survey

Tricia Weel

White Rock RCMP is hoping to hear from the community in a new survey.

Community members are invited to provide their input as the city’s RCMP builds its 2025-2028 Strategic Plan.

“Help us determine priorities

and strategies for policing within the community over the next three years,” a social media post said. Participants are encouraged to complete the survey before Friday, March 28.

Visit www.tinyurl.com/WhiteRockRCMPSurvey2025 online to complete the survey.

White Rock will amend its animal control bylaw to permit early morning dog-walking during the spring and summer, following a successful pilot program last year. (City of White Rock photo)

White Rock RCMP wants the community’s input in a new survey. (File photo)

…on the Semiahmoo Peninsula

South Surrey school hosts Semiahmoo First Nation Powwow

Tricia Weel

Earl Marriott Secondary was a popular place to celebrate First Nations culture over the weekend, as many from near and far descended on the school, which hosted the annual Semiahmoo First Nation powwow March 7 to 9.

The main gym, cafeteria and common areas of the South Surrey school became home to more than 40 vendors, as well as dancers, drummers and other performers, many of whom travelled from elsewhere in B.C., Alberta, and even from the United States, for the three-day event.

EMS teacher Mark Figueira said the turnout for the event was excellent.

“It’s been really busy…it’s been great,” he said, noting the event has been happening for nearly 30 years (aside from a COVID-19

hiatus). “We’ve had a ton of involvement from the community, starting with the Semiahmoo First Nation – they’re amazing!”

He noted several student volunteers also helped out, as well as community members and sponsors.

SFN Councillor Joanne Charles said the powwow “is a celebration of our dance and healing, with a number or drum groups and dancers.”

“We just want to celebrate our local First Nations in the area and be able to share with the community First Nations culture and history,” she said at the event Sunday. “It’s been a great turnout…we’re bursting at the seams.”

Master of Ceremonies Franci James kept the event moving, while former SFN chief Willard Cook gave a blessing prior to Sunday’s grand entry.

Drum group Bad Eagle performs at the Semiahmoo First Nation annual powwow at Earl Marriott Secondary last Sunday, March 9. (Tricia Weel/Peace Arch News)

Nadine Baker prepares Reanna’s hair at the powwow. (Tricia Weel/Peace Arch News)

Performers from B.C., Alberta and Washington State were part of the powwow held at Earl Marriott Secondary. (Tricia Weel/Peace Arch News)

Some of the wares for sale at the powwow, which was held March 7-9 at EMS. (Tricia Weel/Peace Arch News)

Protesters gather to halt Crescent Beach walkway construction

Sobia Moman

Protesters gathered at the planned construction site of a walkway in Crescent Beach that many residents are against.

Nearly 50 people showed up on Monday morning (March 10), some with posters, others with children and pets, to protest the construction of a pedestrian walkway along Alexandra Street in Crescent Beach. Some are even pursuing an injunction to stop the City of Surrey from conducting the work.

While the city only confirmed that construction would begin early this week, residents were initially told work would begin first thing Monday morning. The crowd gathered at about 7 a.m., and while some construction was taking place nearby, no work on the walkway had begun.

(As of Peach Arch News press deadlines, PAN was awaiting confirmation on when the work would start. See www. peacearchnews.com for the latest.)

“The planned construction by the City of Surrey would profoundly affect our historic neighbourhood. It would create more traffic and make our neighbourhoods less safe. Cars would become the priority rather than pedestrians and cyclists,”one protester said while speaking to the crowd.

“I feel that is why we are here today. We want to stand up for continued safety in our community and preservation of our beautiful historic residential neighbourhood.”

Many residents are frustrated after they say there was no consultation process with them before the decision for the walkway was made.

City officials have stated that

impacted residents were notified of the work last fall. The planned construction includes the removal of “unauthorized constructions” that encroach on the city’s road allowance.

According to a corporate report presented to council in April, public engagement included a public meeting on March 13, 2024, that included 124 attendees, a project survey that ran from that same date until April 5, a presentation to the Crescent Beach Property Owners Association and more than 600 postcard mail-out on road allowance education to all properties within the area.

The walkway planned is intended to improve pedestrian access to transit and increase accessibility between bus stops and the beach and be safer for children at Alexandra House to access the beach without having to walk on the road, the city stated last week.

Jolene Laing Funke, one of four homeowners who will be directly impacted by the construction plan, was also briefly present at the protest to thank everyone for showing up.

Funke is also one of a few who have obtained a lawyer and are pursuing legal action against the city in order to stop the work from beginning.

“Particularly the folks on Bayview who would benefit the most from whistle cessation vehemently do not want that fence and we have to wake up and listen to them because there’s a reason they don’t want that fence. It will literally encroach on the road,” Funke said, referencing city plans to create a fence along Bayview Street, parallel to the BNSF rail line.

Discussions between the city and railway owner BNSF regarding whistle cessation at the McBride Avenue and Beecher Street crossings have been ongoing since 2008.

“Regardless of what happens here today, we have to stick together, keep each other informed,” Funke continued.

One of the Bayview residents was also present who shared his frustrations, including how the city’s land use plan is “being ignored.”

- with files from Tracy

Holmes

Nearly 50 protesters gathered at the planned construction site on Alexandra Street along Crescent Beach on Monday, March 10 with posters to halt planned construction of a pedestrian walkway. (Sobia Moman/ Peace Arch News)

Peace Arch Duty Free Shop struggling under trade war threat

Sobia Moman

As U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canada take effect, businesses are starting to feel the pinch.

For Peace Arch Duty Free Shop, the fallout from a Canada-U.S. trade war is the latest in a series of blows to its business, including low border travel, a 20 per cent markup from the BC Liquor Distribution Branch and the nearly two years of closure during the pandemic.

Since the announcement by Trump to impose tariffs on Canada and other countries, border travel has seen a decline – and many predict that decline will continue.

Peace Arch Duty Free operator Peter Raju said his business, which has been in operation for the last 40 years, is definitely feeling the effects.

“We are averaging about eight or nine customers a day. Can you believe that for a store our size?” Raju emphasized, adding that meanwhile, border line-ups are often sparse as the provincial government has urged residents to reconsider travel plans to the U.S.

Raju said he is battling the “survival of his business” after BC Liquor has imposed a 20 per cent markup on his store. This threat to the operator’s business has led him to request meetings with the branch, which he says have gone ignored.

“There is no logical reason for the BCLDB to impose this excessive 20 per cent mark-up on duty-free liquor, especially given that these stores do not compete in the same market as domestic retailers,”a press release from Raju stated.

His store is also competing with less expensive liquor on the American side and inventory shipped into B.C. from Alberta, he added.

The branch has stated that the markups being imposed on duty-free shops

are some of the lowest in the country, but that does not make it easier on Raju’s business.

“B.C. duty-free shops primarily serve the travelling public, especially residents of Washington state, and do not sell to other Canadian markets,” Raju said, noting that duty-free shops are a unique market in comparison to other shops.

As the steep mark-ups make prices at the shop non-competitive, Raju says the measure will continue to take a toll on his business, possibly resulting in a shutdown of the store.

The operator has had to let go of staff in the last month and says he is now losing more money each day than he is making while open.

When asked during an interview how much longer he sees the business surviving, Raju said: “Until the bank calls me, any day.”

Raju is also struggling with the push to remove American liquor from

shelves – a retaliatory measure against U.S. tariffs – as his business has already paid for the inventory.

“Why should we put that on the shelf? Why can’t we sell the liquor and then just not order more?”he said.

The Liquor Branch declined an interview with Peace Arch News and instead sent a written response. In defence of the 20 per cent mark-up, the BCLDB states the revenue generated from it is remitted to government where it contributes to public services, such as health care.

Raju also says he has requested meetings with Premier David Eby and B.C.Public Safety Minister Garry Begg but has not heard back.

“Eby goes out there and says they’re going to support businesses, but we are not being supported,” he added.

“It’s deeply frustrating that my repeated attempts to bring this issue to the attention of the government have gone unanswered.”

SPS launches new unit targeting impaired drivers

Tom Zytaruk

The Surrey Police Service has launched a new “Impaired Driving Unit”staffed by five officers to start but set to expand to seven later this year.

Sgt. Tige Pollock said the officers will be qualified drug recognition experts and as breath analysis operators they will be able to assess drivers impaired by

drugs and alcohol, focusing on evenings and weekends.

“Impaired driving creates dangers on our roadways and causes devastation to individuals, families, and communities,” Pollock noted. “SPS will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement and community partners to reduce the incidences of impaired driving and to

Cool Wave Pansy Baskets B

What is a Cool Wave Pansy? A Cool Whatis ave Wave Pansy is the perfect pansy for a ave Pansyistheperfectpansyfor hanging basket. Growing an abundance hangingbasket.Growinganabundance of flowers, well suited for cool climate offlowers,wellsuitedforcoolclimate growing, and a semi-trailing habit., growing,and semi-trailinghabit., these babies are ready to hang out now! thesebabiesarereadytohangoutnow!

get those drivers and their vehicles off the road.”

Insp. Earl Andersen, in charge of the SPS’s Road Safety Section, said this new dedicated unit “will allow us to focus on impaired driving enforcement year-round, as we work to reduce these highly preventable and often tragic incidents here in Surrey.”

Lots of flowering plants have otsoffloweringplantshave come onto the scene since comeontothescenesince Pansies were named werenamed in the 1800’s. But pansies are inthe 1800’s.Butpansiesare the ones everybody knows and theoneseverybodyknowsand they put more smiles on faces theyputmoresmilesonfaces than any other Cheer yourself, thanany Cheeryourself, your family, your neighbours yourfamily yourneighbours and my boss by planting a few. bossbyplanting 6 large plants in bloom and largeplantsinbloomand ready to go. readytogo.

Forgot to plant your Tulips and orgottoplantyour Tulipsand Daffs last fall? Daffslastfall?

PottedBulbs are just what you need. arejustwhatyouneed. Tulips, Daffs, ulips,Daffs, and Hyacinths, andHyacinths, all in pots allinpots and ready to andreadyto plant now plantnow 4” pots 4”pots

3 97

basically isbasicallyMotherNature

2 97

MossAway

There are many advantages to Therearemany advantagesto living on the West Coast…mild livingonthe WestCoast…mild Winters, longer BBQ seasons, and Winters,longerBBQseasons,and boat loads of Buble’ to name a few boatloadsofBuble’ toname But moss in lawns is a big thumbs Butmossinlawnsis bigthumbs down for us Westcoasters.Take care downforus Westcoasters.Tak of that pesky little carpet in your ofthatpesky littlecarpetinyour lawn with Green lawnwithGreen Country Moss Away CountryMoss Covers 2000sqft. 20

Meet your new best friend for Meetyournewbestfriendfor trimming – the hand-held thehand-held Bypass Pruner BypassPruner

It’s like giving your plants a s e givingyourplants fresh haircut, minus freshhaircut,minus the awkward small theawkwardsmall talk. You likely won’t Youlikelywon’t find yours from last findyours fromlast year, at this price , atthisprice you can afford a youcanafford new pair newpair

Great containers start Greatcontainers with great soil. withgreatsoil. Certified Organic content. CertifiedOrganiccontent. Use indoors or out. Useindoors orout. 20Litre bags 20Litrebags

Peace Arch Duty Free Shop’s owner says the business is struggling with the fallout from the U.S.-Canada trade war. (File photo)

White Rock Rotary book extravaganza

Alex Browne

Bookworms rejoice! One of the best bargains around for the book lover –the eagerly awaited Rotary of White Rock Charity Book Sale – returns to the Peace Arch Curling Centre (1475 Anderson St., in Centennial Park) April 4 to 8.

With a mammoth inventory of more than 50,000 quality books in just about every genre of fiction and non-fiction for adults and children – at unbeatable prices – the sale is, as always, a win-win for residents and visitors, who know that all of the proceeds go towards supporting community initiatives and charitable causes.

“We are thrilled to host our annual book sale and invite the community to join us in supporting a great cause,” said book sale committee chair Keith Becker.

“Every book sold helps make a difference in our community, and we are grateful for the ongoing support of our generous donors and volunteers.”

Following a long-standing tradition, prices actually go down as the sale continues.

On April 4 and 5, the sale will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with books priced at a low $3 each. On April 6 and 7 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) the price drops to just $2 per book. And on the closing day of the sale

(April 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) book bargain hunters can fill a bag for $10. There’s another plus – for teachers, and for other charities in the commu-

nity, books will be free starting at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8.

Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own bags to carry their pur-

chases, and while limited free parking will be available, carpooling or public transit is encouraged. Too many books already? There’s

another way to contribute – the sale also welcomes book donations. For large donations, the club can accept deliveries directly to the Rotary Fieldhouse warehouse at South Surrey Athletic Park (14600 Rotary Way), from 9 a.m. to noon on Mondays.

Smaller book donations can also be dropped off at the blue bin behind the warehouse before the sale – or to the book sale itself.

“We expect to fill our warehouse at the Fieldhouse,” said Becker, noting the club relies on the space for the sorting and storage of books between sales.

Each year, the club’s book sales generate approximately $120,000 in revenue, he added.

Allocation of book sale proceeds directs 70 per cent to local community initiatives and 30 per cent to Rotary International projects, which ensures maximum impact with no administrative costs.

Locally, funds raised support essential programs such as school playground equipment, the Sources Food Bank and youth scholarships, along with numerous other community initiatives.

For more information about the Charity Book Sale and the Rotary Club of White Rock, visit www.whiterockrotary.org.

Nowisthetimetodiscoveranexcitingwaytolive&lovelife. AtSuncrest,weprovideasafe,welcomingenvironmentwhere residentsfeelathomeWecan’twaittoshowyouwhat makesourvibrant,lovingcommunitysospecial!

Yourluckisabouttochange,askaboutourMarchSpecial!

White Rock Rotary Club’s charity book sale will return to Peace Arch Curling Club in Centennial Park, April 4 to 8, with some 50,000 books of all kinds available at bargain prices. (Contributed)

South Surrey students pitch in locally, globally

Tracy Holmes Organizations across the Lower Mainland – and even overseas – will receive some eager helping hands this month, as White Rock Christian Academy introduces one of its “most exciting initiatives” to senior students.

During Service Week – March 10-14 – nearly 100 Grade 10-12 students are volunteering at more than 25 sites, including food banks, community kitchens, animal-welfare organizations, senior-care services and newcomer support programs.

Working in teams, the teens are pitching in with tasks ranging from meal prep to assisting refugee families.

Service is one of WRCA’s four core programs aimed at connecting education to community, school officials explained of the initiative.

Participating organizations in and around the Semiahmoo Peninsula include Urban Safari Rescue Society, Semiahmoo House Society and Cloverdale Community Kitchen.

The senior students were also given opportunities to apply for one of two international service efforts, taking place March 8-18 – in Uganda, working with a group that focuses on an area that has been greatly impacted by past conflicts, HIV, malaria and poverty; or in Mazatlan, engaging in community service projects with Youth With A Mission.

“Our service program encourages a servant heart in God’s world through local and global mission projects,”information at wrca.ca states.

“By engaging in these trips, we invite God to transform us on our spiritual journey, and in turn, God can use that transformation to impact both our own communities and the community that we visit,” the site continues.

“The hope is that students will reflect on how the trip transformed their hearts, their faith, and their future.”

The local Service Week efforts are to wrap up March 14 at White Rock Baptist Church, with “a reflection and celebration of learning.”

Joinusforthegrandopeningofyourtrustedneighbourhoodtax professionalsatLibertyTax!Dropbyforafreeconsultation,taxavingtips, freeassessmentsandenjoycomplimentarycoffeeandsnackswhilewe answeryourquestionsofdeductionsandcreditsyoumaybeeligiblefor. Plus,enterforachancetowinourgrandprizeandthesecondrunner-up willreceiveanexclusivediscountontaxservicesthisyear!

Soinorderfromlefttorightwehave:IreneDahl,KristinaEng (actingPresident),studentwinnerKarlKeshavarzi,hisDadEdward andMichelePartridge.

Senior White Rock Christian Academy students are lending a hand at organizations across the Lower Mainland this week. (White Rock Christian Academy/Contributed)

NorthBluffRoad CorridorStudy

NorthBluffRoadisthenorthboundarybetweenWhiteRockandSurrey.Thisdiverse areaisexpectedtogrowinthecomingyears.Toplanforthisgrowth,theCityof WhiteRockisundertakingtheNorthBluffRoadCorridorStudy,inconsultation withSurrey’sSemiahmooTownCentrePlan,toexaminethelong-termlanduseand densityneedsinthearea. Wewanttohearfromyou!

Visit www.talkwhiterock.ca/ nbrcorridorstudy orscantheQRcode.

SurveyclosesTuesday, March18,2025at4:30p.m.

Formoreinformationandprojectupdates, visitwww.talkwhiterock.ca/nbrcorridorstudy

Attendoneoftheopenhousestolearn moreandshareyourthoughts.

• April3,2025,4-8p.m.

• May27,2025,4-8p.m.

WhiteRockCommunityCentre, 15154RussellAve,WhiteRock

South Surrey resident Leon Li captured this image of Messier 45 – also known as the Pleiades or the Seven Sisters – over 11 hours between Jan. 17 and 20, 2025. The star cluster is located approximately 444 lightyears away. Got a photo of something, someone or somewhere taken in or around White Rock or South Surrey that you’d like to share? Email newsroom@peacearchnews.com. (Leon Li/Contributed to Peace Arch

Semiahmoo Secondary teacher honoured with B.C. award

Sobia Moman

A South Surrey teacher has been recognized as Teacher of the Year in home economics from across B.C.

Rachel Rogers, a textiles teacher at Semiahmoo Secondary, was handed down the award by the Teachers of Home Economics Specialist Association THESA, a provincial organization. Rogers has served as vice-president of the organization for the last four years, according to a press release.

The award is for an educator who has illustrated leadership and continued research in the field, and Rogers does just that.

“Rachel was quick to recognize that there were many questions on how we can assess our students accurately within our subject area and so Rachel spearheaded a Teacher Inquiry Project on student assessment with a group of Surrey home economics teachers with the BC Teachers Federation (BCTF) and Surrey Teachers Association’s (STA) support,” a release notes.

Additionally, the Semiahmoo teacher also runs workshops, mentors others, including teacher candidates from the University of British Columbia, while also assisting in supporting colleagues. She is also the Grade 8 coordinator where she plans events for the new high school students to Semiahmoo Secondary.

“Our goal is to help alleviate the stress of starting high school and help them feel like a part of the school community,” Rogers said in the release.

Rachel Rogers from Semiahmoo Secondary has been recognized as Teacher of Year for home economics teaching across B.C. (Contributed to Peace Arch News)

Adventures in pickleball may not be for everyone

April Lewis

“Oh, honey, I’m ready for you,” I cajoled in my most sultry voice. Silence.

It has taken off like wildfire since then, especially with seniors, who have embraced it.

As has my girlfriend Janet, 71, who is White Rock’s pickleball queen.

“Darling boy, I am waiting,” I implored even more lovingly. No response.

“Come on, love of my life…everybody’s doing it! Especially seniors!”

“I don’t care that everyone is doing it. I’m looking forward to eating molcajetes for lunch,” he growled. “I didn’t come to Cabo to play pickleball!”

“Sweetie,” I cooed. “You can eat your heart out after you play pickleball with me!”

So off we jogged (well, he shuffled) to the pickleball court. Of course, as I had never played before, I didn’t have a clue where to begin.

“Let’s just hit the ball,” I suggested. Tick tock.

“Don’t just stand there,” I said. “Hit the ball!”

“It was out of bounds” was his reply.

“I don’t care. Just hit the ball back to me!”

Tick tock, the sound the holey ball makes, sort of like the clicking of one’s tongue.

I served the ball again, and it was returned to me.

She started off taking lessons through the White Rock Community Centre at the eight courts in Centennial Park which are run by White Rock Pickleball Association, a group of volunteers. She adds everyone is welcome to play regardless of membership.

Just show up and you will very quickly be asked if you want to join a game. (They might make an exception if they espy my guy and me approaching.)

Janet joined the WRPA for the grand sum of $5 a year. They provide balls, some extra paddles, maintenance of the courts and run a fundraiser tournament in the spring, a summer BBQ and a Christmas party, which offers a real feeling of community spirit.

This is fun, I am thinking. I returned the volley and again, he stood there. “Out of bounds again. The rules say…”

“I don’t care what the rules say,” I yelled. “Just hit the damn ball!”

After 15 minutes of our futile efforts, it was either murder my beloved opponent or abort the game.

We were sweating anyway in the hot Mexican sun. Time for a well-deserved margarita with extra lime.

So what is the big deal about this game of pickleball, which originated in 1965 in Bainbridge Island, Washington by three fellas looking for a game for their kids. They improvised with a badminton court, ping-pong paddles and a wiffle ball and named the game after their dog.

Starting in the spring, they have organized games every night of the week. Monday is music night, a take on musical chairs. Tuesday is ladies’ night, which is very popular, with two time slots. Wednesday is men’s night, Thursday is mixed and Friday is newbies night for people new to the game to come and get instructions and guidance.

Sorry Janet, did I mention I’m busy on Friday nights? Crescent Park in Surrey has eight courts and South Surrey Athletic Park has 12 courts, home of the Surrey Pickleball Club. Janet tells me why she loves the game.

“It’s relatively easy to learn how to play. The rules aren’t complicated, with the exception of the scoring, which requires a bit of concentration.

“Most importantly, it is fun!”

Meanwhile, back at the ranch …

Nudge, nudge, wink, wink.

“Good exercise for the brain! You don’t have to be fit…there are all shapes, sizes and fitness levels, so it is a very welcoming and inclusive game.

“Sweetheart, it’s time for our afternoon siesta …everyone’s doing it!”

April Lewis writes monthly on seniors’ issues for Peace Arch News.

April Lewis Savvy seniors

White Rock changes curbside waste pickup times

Alex

Browne

White Rock residents are going to have to make sure their garbage, recycling and green waste is out earlier for curbside pickup on their designated day.

cate staff resources, reduce time spent in traffic, bring down carbon emissions, and ultimately save taxpayer dollars, ”a media release from the city says.

to reduce costs, improve service reliability, and support White Rock’s commitment to environmental sustainability.”

“By shifting our collection time earlier, we can minimize delays caused by peak traffic hours, allowing our crews to work more efficiently while also reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions,” White Rock Mayor Megan Knight commented.

This change impacts residential property owners only – buildings that rely on private garbage pickup will not be affected.

The City of White Rock is adjusting the collection time one hour earlier – to 7 a.m. from 8 a.m. – starting April 1. Residents are asked to place bins at their curb by 7 a.m. on their scheduled collection day, to ensure pickup.

“This change is to better allo-

“This small change will help

For more information on waste collection services, to find your designated pickup day, or to sign up for waste collection reminders, visit whiterockcity. ca/waste.

Surrey nominees up for Women of Distinction awards

Tom Zillich

Eleven women with connections to Surrey and Delta are among the 105 nominees for the 2025 Women of Distinction Awards, hosted by YWCA Metro Vancouver.

Nominees in 12 award categories were announced Wednesday, March 5, eight weeks ahead of the annual WOD event, presented by Scotiabank on April 28 in Vancouver.

Last May, more than 1,300 people filled a Westin Bayshore hotel ballroom to recognize the accomplishments of 96 women and 14 workplaces seen as “catalysts for change within our Metro Vancouver communities.”

This year, Surrey boasts nine Women of Distinction award nominees including Harpo Mander (5X executive director, in the Arts, Culture, & Design category), Preeti Dhillon (Neighbourhood Art Studios, in Arts, Culture, & Design), Ramandeep Randhawa (Khalsa Credit Union, in Business & Professions), Diane Johnson (Descriptive Video Works, Entrepreneurship & Innovation), Feezah Jaffer (Sanford Housing Society, Non-profit), Anmol Sandhu (The Red Badge Foundation, Young Woman of Distinction), Glisha (recording artist, Young Woman of Distinction), Janaye Majer (Black Indigenous Coalition Club at Queen Elizabeth Secondary, Young Woman of Distinction) and Suhana Gill (Kwantlen Student Association, Young Woman of Distinction).

tion-awards photo)

The two Delta-area nominees are Opreet Kang (Core Firm, Business & the Professions category) and Dr. Jana-Lea Davidson (Chief Medical Officer, BC Children’s Hospital and BC Women’s Hospital + Health Centre, Health & Wellness).

Awards event details are posted on ywcavan.org/women-distinction-awards. An “Early Bird” ticket for the gala is priced at $325, free for nominees.

Since 1984, the awards have celebrated “extraordinary women leaders and businesses,” including nearly 370 award recipients and more than 2,200 nominees in those four decades.

White Rock is shifting curbside pick up of garbage, recycling and green waste to one hour earlier on scheduled days throughout the city. (Peace Arch News files)

Erin Seeley, CEO of YWCA Metro Vancouver, at the 2024 Women of Distinction Awards gala at Westin Bayshore in Vancouver. (ywcavan.org/women-distinc-

Love to cook? Kent Street Activity Centre is hiring

Dianne Sawicki

Registration is now open for all White Rock Recreation and Culture spring programs and activities. Check out the guide online at whiterockcity.ca/register and discover all the amazing things you can do. Print copies are available at the Kent Street Activity Centre, White Rock Community Centre and Centennial Park Leisure Centre.

• Many quality books are still available from the Kent Street Activity Centre book sale held a few weeks ago. Drop in to the

centre before March 22 and fill your bag with books for only $5.

• The Kent Street Activity Centre is currently recruiting a cook and food services coordinator to oversee the operation of the centre coffee shop. If you are passionate about cooking, have experience in the food and catering industry and enjoy working with volunteers, we would love to hear from you. Please send a resume and a brief cover letter to dsawicki@whiterockcity.ca

• The Kent Street Activity

Centre’s Stitch and Chat group is looking for more people to join them on Fridays, 2 to 4 p.m. or a fun afternoon of socializing and spending time working on your own special craft or sewing project. Come visit us three times free with a guest pass before purchasing a Kent Street Activity Centre membership. For more information, call 604-541-2199.

• A Fraud Awareness Workshop will be held on March 25, 10 a.m. to noon, at the White Rock Community Centre. This interactive seminar will provide you with information on how to protect yourself from the most current scams as well as focus on generic examples of differ-

ent types of fraud and specific things you can do to reduce the chance of becoming a victim. Co-sponsored with White Rock Community Policing, the RCMP and the Semiahmoo Community Safety Society. Pre-registration is required by calling 604-541-2199 or online at whiterockcity.ca/register.

• Are you prepared for an earthquake or emergency? On March 28, 1:30 p.m., at the Kent Street Activity Centre, register for a free earthquake preparedness workshop for seniors where you will learn the essentials of disaster preparedness. Discover how to build an emergency kit, stay safe during an earthquake and connect

with family in an emergency. Gain practical tips to help you stay safe and confident in a disaster. Call 604-541-2199 to register or sign up online at whiterockcity.ca/register.

• The very popular Fresh and Lively Luncheons continue with the next luncheon on March 21, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. This is a perfect opportunity to socialize and enjoy an afternoon of entertainment. Tickets are $10 including lunch. For more information and to make a reservation before it sells out, contact Brella Community Services Society at 604-531-9400, ext. 207.

• Put on your dancing shoes and enjoy live music with new

PICS Society launches #LoyalCanadian movement

Tracy Holmes Progressive Intercultural Community Services (PICS) Society has launched a new movement.

According to a news release issued last month, #LoyalCanadian is aimed at educating and encouraging people to buy locally made products.

PICS president and CEO Satbir Cheema said the society has pledged to buy local “as much as possible,” including at its transition

homes, senior housing, PICS head office and other locations.

At a ceremony marking National Flag Day, Surrey-Newton MP Sukh Dhaliwal presented a Canadian flag to PICS, noting it represents “generosity, openness, equality.”

“Canada is not for sale and we are not (the) 51st state,” board chair Maninder Grewal added in the release.

PICS marketing, communications and fundraising officer Phalak Betab said the

#LoyalCanadian movement “is to raise awareness about the brands we use daily and inspire people to buy Canadian-made products.”

“We plan to host fun challenges and create educational content to promote Canadian brands worldwide.”

Betab added PICS is inviting everyone to join the movement by using #LoyalCanadian when purchasing Canadian brands. For more information, visit www.pics.bc.ca

friends. Visit the Kent Street Activity Centre on Wednesdays, from 7 to 9:30 p.m, for a night of dancing to live bands. Tickets are available at the door, cash only. On March 19, enjoy music from the Tone Benders, and on March 26 the fabulous Patrizia & Don perform. Singles and couples 50+ welcome. Cost is only $7 for Kent Street Activity Centre members, $9 for non-members. The Kent Street Activity Centre, located at 1475 Kent St., is open to individuals 55 years of age or better. New members are welcome. For more information on activities, programs and volunteer opportunities, please call the centre at 604-541-2231.

Dianne Sawicki seniors scene

PICS Society launched #LoyalCanadian to mark National Flag Day on Feb. 15. (Contributed to Peace Arch News)

NextWeek’sMeetings

March204:00p.m.HousingAdvisoryCommittee

Viewmeetingagendasandwatchalivestreamoftheupcomingmeetingsat whiterockcity.ca/agendas

CouncilandCommittee meetingstakeplaceattheWhiteRockCommunityCentre, locatedat 15154Russell Avenue,White Rock,B.C. Freeparkingisavailableunderground.

Teacher wins award for innovating education on agriculture

Sobia Moman

A Surrey teacher has been recognized for his “outstanding” work in agricultural education innovation.

Fleetwood Park Secondary’s Shon De Vet, who teaches Grades 10 to 12 in culinary arts, was handed down the title of Outstanding Teacher in Agriculture by the BC Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation.

Keepupwithwhat’shappening inyourcity! Signupforenews,textalerts andfollowoursocialchannelsat whiterockcity.ca/connect

PROFESSIONALS

PermanentMakeup

Thereareavarietyofeyelinertattoospeoplecanget basedontheirneedsandpersonalaesthetic.There’s thelashlineenhancement,whichisadarklinethatsits withinthelashlinetohelpmakeyoureyespop.There’s alsosemi-permanenteyeliner,whichcanbeapplied abovethelashline,creatingsomeofyourfavoriteeye likesfromacat-eyetoasoft,smokywing.

Howlongdoespermanenteyelinerlast?

AccordingtoPruett,resultscanlastuptoonetothree years,“sowerecommendcomingbackwheneverthe colorneedsalittleboost.”Sixweeksafteryouroriginal appointment,you’lllikelywanttocomebackfora touch-up.

Whatislipblushing?

Alsoknownaslipblushingorliptinting,aliptattoois asimplewashofsheercoloracrosstheentirelip.This super-natural,semipermanentcosmetictattoobuilds consistentcoloranddefinesyourshapeforfullerlips withoutfillerandamorepolishedpout.Onethingto note,lipblushingisamoreintenseprocesscomparedto otherpermanentmakeuptattoos.Sincetheskinonthe lipsdoesn’tretainpigmentaswellastherestoftheskin, someclientsrequiretwoorthreetouch-ups.

Howlongdoeslipblushinglast?

Onceyou’vebeenthroughthemultipletouch-up appointmentsneededtofirstachieveyourdesiredlook, thecolorwilllastaboutayear.Thistreatmentalways includestwosessionsspacedsixweeksapart.Results typicallylastthreetofiveyears,sowerecommend comingbackwheneverthecolorneedsaboost.

SiennaSpa

#51015335524Ave.,Surrey (604)536-5512•www.siennaspatanning.com

“As a teacher, it’s important to connect students to B.C. agriculture because it fosters a deeper understanding of local food systems, the economy and sustainability,” De Vet said in a press release.

“By teaching them where their food comes from, we encourage healthier choices, respect for Indigenous traditions and critical thinking about environmental issues.

“It’s about inspiring them to care for the land and make choices that contribute to a sustainable future.”

De Vet received the title at the BC Agriculture Council’s BC Agri-Foods Industry Gala after a lifelong passion for food education and more than 30 years of experience and exper-

tise as a Red Seal chef to his classes.

The Surrey teacher has been an advocate for agriculture education and has made it a priority to educate his students about B.C. food and farming.

De Vet became a teacher six years ago, in that time including sustainability, local food systems and agricultural history into his classes, fostering student interest in the topics.

For other teachers who may want to include such subjects

into their lesson plans, De Vet recommends to find natural connections between agriculture and the topic they are teaching.

“Share the history of food, cultural influences and the contributions of Indigenous communities to our culinary traditions,” he said.

“It doesn’t have to be a massive production – simple connections to agriculture can create a meaningful learning experience.”

KPU Surrey introduces new braille printer

Tom Zillich

A university library in Newton is among the first in Canada to have a braille printer available for school and community use.

Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Surrey campus library is home to a new braille embosser, which prints braille characters onto paper for tactile reading by readers with a visual disability, like sociology student Michael McClellan.

A lifelong braille user, McClellan says the new embosser will help improve access to class materials.

“I want to get the material at the same time as everyone else, and having the braille printer makes it accessible for everyone,” he said.

“I need to have class materials such as slideshows in braille, otherwise I have no idea where we’re at in class.”

The self-serve embosser can be used by anyone for the fee of 25 cents per page, for personal documents or materials within the Canadian Copyright Act’s Fair Dealing guidelines. Use of the machine is free for KPU instructors printing documents to support their students.

Appointments can be booked online (kpu.ca/ library/braille-printing), or call 604-599-3236.

Kelsey Chaban, KPU liaison librarian, believes that “this type of access to a braille embosser has not been done before, at least in Western Canada, in a library.”

She said unless braille users have an embosser at home, they typically don’t have an opportunity to print out materials on their own. “We’re hoping that it won’t just be students, but also community members outside of KPU, who will benefit from this service,” Chaban added.

Fleetwood Park Secondary teacher Shon De Vet was awarded Outstanding Teacher in Agriculture by the BC Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation. (BCAITC photo)

Kelsey Chaban, liaison librarian, with the new braille printer at KPU’s Surrey campus library. (KPU/Contributed to Surrey Now-Leader)

Senior scammed out of $20K

Sobia Moman

A fundraiser was started in White Rock for a senior who has lost $20,000 due to a phone scam, the type that has been increasingly affecting B.C. residents.

Police across the province have been warning people about scam calls where the perpetrator will attempt and often succeed at getting the call-taker to hand over typically thousands of dollars.

While seniors are disproportionately affected, people of all ages should take precautions and educate themselves on the warning signs, police and experts have stated.

For 85-year-old Naomi Mitchell, originally from the Peninsula, the sum of money she lost was a large chunk of her savings “for emergencies and end of life care,” reads an online fundraiser set up by her son, Stu Mitchell.

“Money has always been tight for my mom, but since her retirement she has managed to put a small amount away each month and, until recently, had saved $35,000,” Stu explained, but now, the senior is out $20,000.

The family started the online fundraiser to help their beloved mother after police told them she would not be able to get her money back from the scammers, Stu said.

“The perpetrators said that her

bank accounts were at risk of being siphoned, and kept her on the phone for a full day, instructing her to make two $10,000 cash withdrawals which they would ‘transfer to a safe account.’”

“It has been heartbreaking to see her go through this, not only losing money, but her faith in humanity.”

Naomi was an elementary school teacher while raising her two children on her own, her son shared. Now on a pension, the woman lives on her own in a small basement suite, but she was determined to save money and did.

Her son said she saved little by little each month until she reached

the $35,000 mark and has been devastated since the scam.

The GoFundMe is now closed to new donations after surpassing its goal of $20,000, to replace the amount she lost.

“I really can’t find words to express how I feel,” Naomi said in an update posted online.

“I am humbled by the number of people that have come to help me.

Family, friends, friends of my sons, people I haven’t seen in years and many that I barely know or have never even met. Your kindness and generosity remind me that there really are good people out there. I can only say from my heart, thank you.”

Man banned from B.C. investment market

Holmes

A man described as having ties to White Rock has been banned from B.C.’s investment market.

In a Feb. 25 news release, BC Securities Commission explains the permanent prohibition – which took affect Monday (Feb. 24) – for Amar Bahadoorsingh was implemented after a U.S. court found Bahadoorsingh liable for “fraud, misrepresentation, offering unregistered securities and failing to disclose his ownership of more than five per cent of a class of certain securities.”

The finding was made by a federal court in Boston in two separate cases, in 2022 and 2023, the release explains.

According to the release, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) alleged that Bahadoorsingh and others secretly gained control of several companies, in one case selling shares to unsuspecting investors to “generate substantial illicit profits.”

“In another case, Bahadoorsingh and others clandestinely sold their stakes in a company that they had promoted to retail investors,” the release continues.

Default judgments were granted in both cases, the release notes, with Bahadoorsingh ordered to pay $1.4 million and “barred from participating in the offering of a penny stock and partici-

pating in the issuance, purchase, offer or sale of any security, except those listed on a U.S. national exchange for his own personal account.”

In the BCSC decision – which states Bahadoorsingh was named as a defendant in U.S. SEC complaints that were filed in April 2021 and December 2021 – the commission’s executive director is noted as having described Bahadoorsingh’s south-of-the-border misconduct as “deceitful and unscrupulous.”During oral submissions heard Nov. 4, 2024, the official also provided affidavit evidence that Bahadoorsingh listed White Rock as his residence on a driver’s licence as of December 2023, the decision states.

Other activities covered by the BCSC ban include trading in or purchasing the majority of securities or derivatives; advising or acting in a management or consultative capacity; and relying on any exemptions in the Securities Act. The release notes Bahadoorsingh did not attend or participate in the U.S. proceedings.

According to the BCSC decision document, Bahadoorsingh argued at the Nov. 4 proceeding that a lifetime market ban “would be a substantial blow to his professional career and income earning potential.”

Tracy

Naomi Mitchell, 85, was scammed out of $20,000 of her $35,000 in savings. (GoFundMe photo)

WOMENOF INFLUENCE Celebrating ONTHEPENINSULA

Ontheoccasionof InternationalWomen'sday PeaceArchNewsiscelebrating strong,ambitious,courageous andinfluentialwomeninour community.

EMPOWERINGWOMEN WITHDISABILITIES: LeadingChange, BuildingCommunity

StaceyKohler

CommunityBuilder&VolunteerLeader

UNITIbelievesinthepoweroflived experienceto create lastingchange.CommunityDevelopment Services (CDS),inspired by theadvocacy oftheSelf-AdvocatesofSemiahmoo(SAS),empowers peoplewithlived experience asthedriving force inbuildinganinclusivecommunity

For over 67years,UNITIhassupportedpeoplewithdevelopmentaldisabilitiesandbraininjuries throughemployment,mentalhealth, recreation,leadership, housing,and communityinitiatives. CDSfostersthedeepest transformation,ensuringequity forall.

We are proud to introduce sixincredible womenwhoembodyleadership,resilience, andadvocacy— creatingmeaningfulchangenotjustforthemselvesbut fortheir communities.

StaceyisacommittedmemberoftheWhiteRockRotaryClub representingUNITI.SheplaysavitalroleinRotary’sbooksaleevents, leveragingherpositiveattitudetorecruitvolunteersfromUNITI.Eachyear,sheservesas thecaptainoftheUNITITeamforthe ColdestNightoftheYear,oneofCanada’smost successfulfundraisingeventsforhomelessness.Thefundsraisedaredirectedlocallyto SOURCES,whereStaceyisrecognizedforherleadershipandfundraisingefforts.Her commitmentextendsbeyonddisabilityadvocacy;sheactivelysupportsbroadersocial causestoensurethatinclusionbenefitseveryone.

LaurenSimpson

HousingAdvocate&CommunityConnector

JeevanBasra

ChampionofGiving

JeevanisaCo-ChairtoSAS,wheresheinfusesherleadershipand frontlineworktoachievetheirmissionofmakingchangethroughpositive relationships.SASisawellknownnameincommunitynow,withmany partnershipopportunitiesreachingouttothem.Onevery“sweet”eventistheSurreyTreat AccessibilityHalloweenVillagewhichJeevanleadtheSASpartnershiponthelocalevent. AsagraduatefromtheSFUCommunityLeadersIgnitingChangeprogram,Jeevan’spassion forserviceledhertocreate SocksforaCause,aninitiativethathasdonated1,000sofpairs ofsockstotheSouthSurreySourcesFoodbank.Throughstrongpartnershipswithbusinesses likeRBCWhiteRock,shecontinuestogrowthisproject.Herdedicationwasrecognizedwhen shewasnamedoneofthe Top25Under25 inanAwardseventforSurreyBoardofTrade.

Laurenisarelentlessadvocateforaffordablehousing.Withadeep personalcommitmenttoensuringeveryonehasahome,shehas cultivatedkeyrelationshipswithpolicymakersandpoliticians,includingPremierDavid Eby.LaurenservedasaCommunityAmbassadorforSurreyHousingNeedsReport, transformingitintoaplainlanguageforbetteraccessibility.Lauren’sadvocacyisbreaking barriers,ensuringpeoplewithdisabilitieshaveaccesstosafe,affordable,andinclusive housingtowhichshehasreceivedseveralawards.

MadyWieczorek

Entrepreneur&LGBTQ+Advocate

NatalieRaven

BusinessLeader&Networker

AmemberofSAS,andtheResilientWomeninBusiness,Natalie representsUNITIwhilealsosupportingfellowentrepreneurs.She thrivesonnetworkingandmentorship,helpingwomengrowtheir businessesandstrengtheningcommunityconnections.Shehasalsotakenonleadership rolesinpresentationdesign,providingCanvaworkshopstohelpothersdevelopessential businessskills.

Madyisanindependentforceinthecommunity.Sherunsherown cookiebusiness,activelyvolunteersforLGBTQ+initiatives,andhas participatedinSoYouThinkYouCanDrag,ahigh-profilefundraiserfortheSurreyPride Society.Madyliveslifeoutloudandthecommunitylovesherforit.

AlexaLehwald

FutureTEDxSpeaker&DisabilityAdvocate

WithdreamsofgivingaTEDxtalk,Alexaissharpeningherpublic speakingskillsthroughpresentationsatInclusionBC,Equally Empoweredprogramsinschools,andadvocacyevents.SheisalsoenrolledinKwantlen PolytechnicUniversity’sIncludingAllCitizensPathway(IACP),demonstratingthathigher educationandleadershiparewithinreachforeveryone.

BEYONDADVOCACY: BuildingCommunity

UNITI’score philosophy isempowerment notjust participation,butleadership We’ve seenfirsthandhow upliftingself-advocatestransformsentirecommunities,and we’re proud to supporttheirjourneys.

CommunityDevelopmentServices (CDS)isbuiltonthe extraordinaryachievementsof SAS, a movementprovingthat self-advocacy drives systemicchange Fromshapingthe Canadian Accessibility Act to hostinginclusive AllCandidatesMixers,fundraising for accessibility, and fosteringdeep community connections, SAS hasledgroundbreaking efforts. Recognizingthisimpact,UNITIcreatedCDSto amplifytheir workand expand community-ledinclusion.

CDS ispowered by self-advocateswhogobeyondadvocacy they lead. The women ofCDS are drivinginitiativesthatstrengthen communities,enhance accessibility, and deepen connections.

ThegrowthofCDS marks a shift where thosewithlived experience don’tjust seek inclusionbutdefineit. UNITIisproud to supporttheseleadersasthey breakbarriers andpave the wayforfuture generations. Their workprovesthat wheninclusionis at the core,communitiesthrive.Together,we are transformingsociety—one connection,one initiative, andoneactofleadership ata time

JillianGlennie,DirectorofDevelopment tosupportUNITIat 604-209-7979 or j.glennie@uniti4all.com

HolisticNutritionist

ValerieMrakuzic

RegisteredHolisticNutritionist

Doyoustruggleorwonderwhat’spreventingyou fromreachingyourhealthyweight? ValerieMrakuzic

RHN,willdetermineyourweightlossblockingfactorsand thenestablishapersonalizedwellnessplantohelpyoufeel better,preventfuturehealthproblemsandlosethoseextra pounds.Additionalbenefitsincludebettersleep,increasedenergyandlower stresslevels.

Thetypicalimbalancesassociatedwithweightlossstruggles:

1.Hormoneimbalances:insulin,cortisol,adrenalandthyroidhormones

2.Mineraldeficiencies:calcium,magnesium,potassium,zinc,selenium,etc.

3.Toxinoverload:environmentalandsyntheticchemicals,metals,etc.

4.Pathogeninfections:fungus,virus,bacteria,mold,parasites

5.Digestionandabsorptionissues:foodsensitivities,enzymes,elimination

Valeriewillestablishacustomizedwellnessplanthatincludesanin-depthreviewof yourhealthhistoryandgoals,acustomdetoxandweightlossmealplan,nutritional report,reviewofyourfoodintakelogand12weeksofprofessionalsupportand coachingtoensureyoursuccess.

Imaginewhatitwouldfeelliketobehealthynewpersoninlessthantwomonths? Pastclientscanattestthatsuccessisachievable.

MENTIONTHISADTORECEIVE10%OFFUNTILMAR31,2025

BookyourappointmentNOWtotakeadvantageofthisoffer.

Acupuncture&HerbalMedicine

ACommunityPillarforHealthandWellness

Fornearly30years,FengLiAcupunctureClinichasbeen acornerstoneofnaturalhealthandwellnessinWhite Rock&SouthSurrey,helpingindividualsmanagepain, stress,andchronicconditionswhilerestoringbalanceto theirlives.

RunbyFengLi,anMDinChinaandaBC-certifiedTraditionalChineseMedicine (R.TCM.P.)practitioner,(Liam)Sheng(R.TCM.P.)andJinghao(Lisa)Yan(Dr.TCM) – all servingpatientswithtimelyandcomprehensivecare.

FengLiAcupunctureClinicofferscustomizedtreatmentstoaddressavarietyofacute andchronicconditions.Acupunctureprovidespainlessandeffectivereliefforchronic pain,migraines,dizziness,TMJ,jointinjuries,seasonalallergies,infertility,menopause symptoms,digestivedisorders,insomnia,andmore.

Forthoseseekingmanualtherapy,theclinicprovidesTaoismTuinamassage,orLaser Acupuncture – anon-invasivealternativetotraditionalacupuncture.Supplementary therapiesincludefirecuppingandtraditionalChineseherbalmedicine.

Ourclinicspecializesintreatingcaraccident-relatedinjuriesandprovidingeffective treatmentforpain,inflammation,concussions,memoryissues,andwhiplashinjuries. OurclinicalsoprovidesdirectbillingforextendedhealthcoverageandICBCclaims, makinghigh-qualitycaremoreaccessibleforourpatients.

Ourgoalistorestorehealthanddailyfunctionbyharmonizingthemind,spirit,and bodythroughintegrativetreatmentsthatpromotehealingandbalance.

Formoreinformationpleasevisitwww.fengliacupuncture.comor(604)538-9367. VisitUs&ExperiencetheBenefitsofAcupuncture!

UnmatchedExpertise&Service TeamMcKnightRealEstate

Ifyouarelookingforexpertguidanceintherealestate market,looknofurtherthanTeamMcKnightfrom MacdonaldRealty.Withover$3billioninrealestate transactions,receivingmultipleawardslikeFraser ValleyRealEstateBoard’s“TopDollarVolumeTeam,”theyarea reputablechoiceforresidentialandcommercialpropertyneeds.TeamMcKnightisthe #1teaminMacdonaldRealty,companywide.

“TeamMcKnight’ssuccessliesinourunwaveringcommitmenttoexcellenceanddiversity,” saysLouise.“Ourmultilingualteamandvariedlanguages,allowsustomarketandnegotiate effectivelywithawiderangeofbuyersandsellers,ensuringthebestresultsforourclients.”

TeamMcKnightproudlyservestheLowerMainland,specializinginWhiteRockand SouthSurrey.Knownfortheirstrategicapproach,TeamMcKnightoffersunparalleled sellerservices,includingprofessionalphotography,videography,extensivesocialmedia marketing,andnewspaperads.Thesetools,Louisebelieves,arevitalin“maximizing propertyexposureandattractingseriousbuyers.”

WhatsetsLouiseapartispairingherindustryknowledgewithherpersonalizedservice forclients.“Strongcommunicationsandnegotiationskillsareimperative.Ihaveavery personalizedapproach,understandingmyclientswantsandneeds.”

AwardedSouthSurrey&WhiteRock’sBusinessLeaderoftheYear,LouiseMcKnightand TeamMcKnightcontinuetoleadwithpassion,integrity,andacommitmenttocommunity. Formoreinformationvisitourwebsitewww.team-mcknight.comorcall604.209.9394.

AngellHasman &Associates

SidraSubzwari,Realtor

NavigatetheMarketwithConfidence—SidraSubzwari PREC,YourTopBCRealEstateAdvisor

SidraSubzwariisn’tjustarealestateagent;she’samarketexpert,communityconnector,andapassionateadvocateforherclients.Sidra SubzwariisaWhiteRockspecialist,co-founderofthestellarPacificRealEstateteam,anaffiliateoftheaward-winningbrokerageAngell Hasman&Associates—heraccomplishmentsdirectlyreflectherdedicationtoherworkandtoherclients.

“Fromthebeginning,Icommittedtolayingasolidfoundationbasedonmyvalues—integrity,hardwork,dedication.Ithinkconsistently showingupwithoutexpectingovernightsuccessreallycontributedtocreatingthebusinessIhavetoday,”saysSubzwari.

Withadeepunderstandingoftheuniquenuancesoftheindustry,Subzwariofferspersonalizedguidancetailoredtoyourspecificneeds andaspirations,whetherbuyingorselling.OfferingservicesandlistingsinthelowermainlandincludingLangley,Surrey,WhiteRock,for bothresidentialandcommercialrealestate—shecoversitall.

Through10+yearsofsalesandmarketingexperience,she’srefinedherskillsetforthebenefitofherpatrons.Subzwarisaysthat’s ultimatelywhatclientsarelookingforthatshemasterfullyprovides.“Someonewhoisintheircornerandprioritizingtheirassets.”

Whetheryou’reafirst-timehomebuyer,aseasonedinvestor,orlookingtorelocate,Subzwaritakesthetimetounderstandyouruniquevision, lifestyle,andfinancialobjectives,craftingatailoredstrategythatalignswithyourgoals.Subzwarisaysthatbuildinggenuinerelationshipsand trustisinitiallywhatgotherintothebusiness,andwhatkeepshergoing.

“Meetingnewpeopleeveryday.Buildingrelationships,buildingfriendships.Andthenhelpingpeoplereachtheirgoals.WhenourclientstrustusandreferPacificRealEstatetotheirfamilyand friends,thatisthegreatestcompliment.”

PacificRealEstate’syearlyrecognitionasthe#1TeaminSouthSurrey&WhiteRock,andwithover$500millioninhomessold,herteam’sluxuryrealestateportfolioandtop-tierservicespeakfor itself.

“It’sourcommitmenttoclientserviceandexperience.It’swhatwedobehindthesceneseverydaythathelpsusstandoutinthepubliceye,”saysSubzwari.

Partneringwithluxuryaffiliatesandhigh-endlifestylebrandslikeHauteResidence,LuxuryListings,HavenMagazine,BoulevardVancouver,tobringclientsthebestofthebest.Forbuyers,Sidra leveragesherextensivenetworkandresourcestoensureyouhaveaccesstothebestpropertiesavailable.Sheguidesyouthroughthecomplexitiesofoffers,negotiations,andduediligence— protectingyourinterests.Havingbuiltconnectionsbothlocalandinternationally,Subzwari’sbusinessacumenmaximizesyourinvestments.“Ihavetappedintoourresourcechannels(withfinancial institutions,developers,andcolleagues)tofindthebestdeals.”

Asasuccessfulbusinesswoman,Subzwarivaluesgivingbacktothoselessfortunate,workingcloselywiththeWorldHousingfoundation,anorganizationthatprovidesstablehousingtothemost vulnerablefamiliesaroundtheglobe.“Iamgratefultohavegiftedmultiplehomestofamiliesinneedovertheyears.”

Asatruedreammakerandexceptionalprofessional,letSubzwarinavigatethecomplexitiesofthemarket,whileyoufocusontheexcitementofyournextchapter.SidraSubzwari—yourtrustedBC realestateadvisor.Visithttps://www.soldbysid.com/orcall604.356.0077formoreinformation.

SIDRASUBZWARI

QueenofFreeze

CareeWalker,Owner

NewBeauty–SouthSurrey’sPremierAestheticDestination DiscoverunparalleledaesthetictreatmentsatNewBeautyin SouthSurrey,expertlyledbytherenownedCareeWalker. Withanimpressive24+yearsofexperience,Careestandsas Surrey’s#1CoolSculptingprovider,proudlyearningthetitle of“QueenofFreeze,”.NewBeautyisthethirdELITEcoolsculpting centerinCanada.Careecanofferevengreaterresults,andpricinghasneverbeenmore affordablewiththelatestElitecoolsculptingmachine.

AtNewBeauty,webelieveinthepowerofpersonalization.Ourjourneybeginswitha thoroughconsultationtocrafttailoredtreatmentplansthatmeetyouruniqueneeds. Theboutique-styleenvironmentweofferenhancesyourexperience,ensuringthatevery visitleadstotransformativeresultsyou’lllove.

Ulthera–Tighter,Firmer,BetterSkin

ExperiencetheexceptionalbenefitsofUlthera,oneofourmostsought-aftertreatments. Thisnon-invasiveprocedurerejuvenatesyourskinbystrengtheningandtoningit fromwithin.Ultherapystimulatesdeepcollagenproductionbyharnessingadvanced ultrasoundenergy,resultinginnoticeablyfirmer,moreyouthfulskin.Unliketraditional lasersorradiofrequencytreatments,itskillfullybypassestheouterlayerofskin, deliveringconsistentandpreciseresultswithoutdowntime.Manyclientsbeginwith treatmentsforthelowerfaceandfindthemselvesreturningforadditionalsessionson theneckorbrowtoenhancetheirlookfurther.

EMFace–ARevolutioninBeauty

Ifyoudesireayouthful,sculptedappearancewithoutsurgeryorneedles,looknofurther thanEMFace.Thisgroundbreakingtreatmentrevolutionizesbeautybyliftingbrows, cheekbones,chin,andjawlinewhiletighteningmuscleandskin.Injust4-6sessions, clientsexperienceastonishingresults:boostyourelastinby200%andincreaseyour muscletoneby80%.AtNewBeauty,wecombinecutting-edgetreatmentswitha personalizedtouch,empoweringclientstolookandfeeltheirabsolutebest.Don’t wait—jointhetransformativejourneytoday!Alwaysofferingfreeconsultations. JoinusforournextLunchandLearnOpenHouseonApril16,at12:00-3:00pm— RSVPat604-787-4099

112–1656MartinDriveSurrey,BC (604)787-4099|New-beauty.ca

FriendlyFamilyDentist

Dr.CherryGupta DDS

AtGeorgianSquareDentalinWhiteRock,weprovide top-tierdentalcareforyouandyourfamily,ensuring everypatientistreatedwithcomfortableandquality care.LedbyDr.CherryGupta,ourcliniciscommittedto assistingclientsachieveasmiletheycanbeproudof. Dr.Gupta’sexpertiseinvariousdentaltreatmentshavemade heratrustedproviderinthecommunity

Ourcomprehensiveservicesincluderoutinedentalexams,partialorfulldentures, Invisaligntreatment,veneersandimplants,crowns&bridges,andrestorative dentistry.Whetheryouneedageneralcheck-up,professionalassessment,or advancedteethreplacement,we’vegotyoucovered.Dr.Guptaspecializesin offeringastress-freedentistryexperiencewithinformativepatientcare,explaining procedurestepsandpatientchoiceforthebestpossibleresults.

AtGeorgianSquareDental,weunderstandthatvisitingthedentistcancause anxietyforsome,whichiswhyweprioritizepatientcomfort.Fromthemomentyou walkthroughourdoors,ourfriendlyteamisheretomakeyourvisitasrelaxingas possible.Weusethelatesttechnologytoensureefficient,effectivetreatmentswith minimaldiscomfort.

Wealsoofferflexibleschedulingandacceptavarietyofinsuranceplans,makingit easierthanevertoaccessthedentalserviceyoudeserve.

CallGeorgianSquareDentaltodayat(604)385-0074or visitgeorgiansquaredental.comtoscheduleanappointment.Letusstartyour journeytoahealthier,brightersmile!

www.georgiansquaredental.com

Optometry Store

DrGurjeetBains,Owner

ABOUTMYBUSINESS:

■ EyeExams&OCTRetinalScans

■ HolisticEyecare.MyopiaControl

■ 1Hr.OpticalLab

■ Luxury&Hand-MadeEyewearSpecialist

■ FreeStyleyesConsultation

■ CustomDigitalLenses

OriginallyhailingfromBritain,Dr.GurjeetBainsisaSouthSurreyresidentandownerofRoyal LondonOptometry.ThisBoutiqueistheperfectintersectionofEuropeanfashion,culture, architecture&technology,offeringauniqueselectionoftheworld’sbesteyewear–allatour doorstep!Celebrating29yearsinpracticethisyear,theclinichasafocusonpreventative eyecareusingholistictreatmentsandnutriceuticals.“Istrivetoprovidegoodold-fashioned serviceandtop-qualityproductsforexcellentvalue;similartowhatIexperiencedgrowing upintheUK,”Dr.Bainsexplained.“WeusethelatestequipmentfromtheUK,Germanyand Japan,andstocktheverylatesttrendsinqualitylenstechnologiesandluxury/handmade eyewearfromEurope.”Thisincludeshead-turningeyewearfromBoutiquelabelssuchasAnne etValentin,Theo,Lindberg,Gold&Wood,DitaandVinylize,aswellaseco-friendlyframesusing naturalandrecycledproducts.

Theentireeyecareandeyewearshoppingexperienceisbreathtakinglyunique.Framesare displayedonantiquefurniturecarvedfromcenturyoldBritishreclaimedwood;sleekframe rodsfromGermany;antiquemirrors-alltocreatetheRoyalLondonexperience!Herdesign inspiration?HerMum’sgold-platedhandmadeeyeglassesfromthe1960’s;aswellasher heritageVictorianhomethatwastheWomen’sATSHeadquartersintheUKinWorldWarII, wherePrincessElizabethtrainedtomaintainvehicles.

“Themostrewardingpartofmyjob,isseeingthefamiliarfacescomeintotheexamroomeach year,andhelpingmaintaingreateyehealthandvision,”saysDr.Bains.DropintoseeDr.Bains fortheRoyalLondonexperience!!

REALTOR

SusanVollmer

WhyExperienceMattersWhen BuyingorSellingaHome

Whenitcomestobuyingorsellingahome,experience isn’tjustvaluable—it’sessential.With38yearsin therealestatebusiness,I’venavigatedeverytypeof market,solvedcountlesschallenges,andsuccessfully guidedclientsthroughoneofthemostimportantfinancialdecisionsoftheirlives.

WhyWorkWithMe?

CHIROPRACTOR

Dr.PriscillaNarotam

ExperienceComprehensiveandHolisticCareat WindsorSquareChiropractic.

• ProvenExpertise: Withnearlyfourdecadesintheindustry,Iknowhowto anticipateissuesbeforetheyarise,ensuringasmoothtransaction.

• StrongNegotiationSkills: Whetheryou’rebuyingorselling,myabilityto negotiateeffectivelycansaveyoutime,stress,andmoney.

• MarketKnowledge: Iunderstandlocaltrends,pricingstrategies,andwhat ittakestogetthebestdeal.

• Full-ServiceSupport: Fromlistingtoclosing,Iprovidehands-onguidance, clearcommunication,anddedicatedadvocacyforyourbestinterests. AsaRE/MAXrealtor,Ialsobringthestrengthofaglobalnetwork,givingyou accesstotop-tierresourcesandmarketingstrategies.Ifyou’relookingforareal estateprofessionalwithahistoryofsuccess,let’sconnectandmakeyourreal estategoalsareality!

InteriorDesigner

CaraLawson

ConvenientlylocatedinSouthSurrey,WindsorSquare Chiropracticisyourtrusteddestinationforholisticcare andlongtermpainrelief.Ownerandpractitioner Dr.PriscillaNarotam,bothaskilledandcompassionate physician,isheretohelpyouachieveoptimalhealthand wellnessthroughpersonalizedtreatmentsthatfityourbody’suniqueneeds. “Itakemytimewitheachpatientandmakeaspecifictreatmentplan.Iamvery investedinallmypatientsandtheiroverallhealthcare,”saysNarotam. AtWindsorSquareChiropractic,Dr.Narotamtreatsawiderangeofinjuriesand conditionsincludingrelievingarthritissymptoms,chronicmigraines,Thoracic& Lumbardysfunction,andsports-relatedinjuries.Offeringavarietyofskilledtechniques beyondChiropracticadjustmentslikeMyofascialRelease,TriggerPointTherapy,and DeepTissueMassage—patientsreceiveaspectrumofsupportivetherapies Whetheryou’rerecoveringfromaninjuryormanagingchronicpain,Narotamhelps restorefunctionandpromotelong-termhealing.Servicesincludeposturecorrection andcustomorthoticstohelpprovidecomprehensivecare.HaveanICBCorWCB claim?Windsorhasgotyoucovered!Contacttheofficeformoreinformation. Byusingevidence-basedtreatmentsandfocusingontherootcauseofdiscomfort, Dr.Narotamensuresthateachpatientreceivesthecaretheyneedtoliveahealthylife, sotheycan“gettheirconfidenceback!”

Bookanappointmenttodayatwww.wschiro.caorcall604-535-1242. Comeexperienceahealthier,pain-freelifeunderNarotam’sdiligentcare!

Youwouldexpectaninteriordesignertosee you.AtCaraInteriors,wehearyou.Our distinctiveapproachtoyourdesignneeds--” ListenFirst,DesignSecond”--willproducea spaceyouwillbeproudtoembraceasyourvery own.

Youwouldexpectaninteriordesignertosee you.AtCaraInteriors,wehearyou.Our distinctiveapproachtoyourdesignneeds--” ListenFirst,DesignSecond”--willproducea spaceyouwillbeproudtoembraceasyour veryown.

Ourgoalistoensureyourhomeorofficeinstills astunning,vibrantfirstimpressionwhenguests orclientswalkin.CaraLawson,asprincipal interiordesigner,believesinteriordesignshould supportthefunction,aesthetics,andcultureof thosewhoarelivinginthespace.Itisthecareful balanceofpsychologyandfineartsthatcreates afinishedproductequallyfunctional,charming, anduplifting.

Ourgoalistoensureyourhomeorofficeinstills astunning,vibrantfirstimpressionwhenguests orclientswalkin.CaraLawson,asprincipal interiordesigner,believesinteriordesignshould supportthefunction,aesthetics,andcultureof thosewhoarelivinginthespace.Itisthecareful balanceofpsychologyandfineartsthatcreates afinishedproductequallyfunctional,charming, anduplifting.

positiveenergyandasenseofwellbeing.

spacesdesignedtopromotepositiveenergy andasenseofwellbeing.Weofferinnovative productoptionswithvariedprices,whichallow clientstoremainwithintheirbudgets.We willhelpyoubuildabeautiful,inspiring,and comfortablehomespecificallydesignedtomatch yourindividualneeds andlifestyle.

Ourdesignersdeliverprojectswithtimeless, elegant,beautiful,anduniquetoyourdistinct styledspaces.Weofferinnovativeproduct optionswithvariedprices,whichallowclients toremainwithintheirbudgets.Wewillhelp youbuildabeautiful,inspiring,andcomfortablehomespecificallydesignedtomatchyour individualneedsandlifestyle.

Weprideourselvesondesigningspacesthat aretimeless,sophisticated,glamorous,and responsivetoyourparticularstyle.Wealso offerourowncustomcabinetrylineaswellas customfurnitureandwindowcoverings.

theCanadianDecoratorsAssociation. SheisalsoaCertifiedImage,Interior&Industry DesignStyleStrategist,accreditedmemberofthe NationalKitchen&BathAssociationand principalownerandstylistofCaraInteriors.Cara hasbeenfeaturedinthePNEPrizeShowandby avarietyofmedia,includingPeaceArchNews, BCHomeMagazine,LoveMagazine,and IndulgeMagazine.

Thisbalanceisclearlydisplayedinourprojects. Weareanaward-winningboutiquefirmthat combineselegance,creativity,style,and warmth.Weareknownforcreatingclient focusedlivingspacesdesignedtopromote

Thisbalanceisclearlydisplayedinourprojects. Weareanaward-winningboutiquefirmthat combineselegance,creativity,style,andwarmth. Weareknownforcreatingclientfocusedliving

Weprideourselvesondesigningspacesthat aretimeless,sophisticated,glamorous,and responsivetoyourparticularstyle.Wealsooffer ourowncustomcabinetrylineaswellascustom furnitureandwindowcoverings.CaraLawsonis anExperiencedInteriorDesigner,skilledinnew builds,renovations,furnishings,customerservice, windowcoverings,andkitchen&bathdesign. AgraduateofKwantlenUniversityCollege,she isapastdirectorandaccreditedmemberofthe CanadianDecoratorsAssociation.

CaraLawsonisanExperiencedInterior Designer,skilledinnewbuilds,renovations, furnishings,customerservice,window coverings,andkitchen&bathdesign.A graduateofKwantlenUniversityCollege,she isapastdirectorandaccreditedmemberof

Yourhomeisanextensionofyouridentity,sowe promisetodoitright.Listeningintentlytoyour needs,wewillworkcloselywithyouandour contractorsthrougheverystepoftheprocessto ensureyourhomeisexactlythewayyouwantit. Wedon’ttakeresponsibilitylightly.Weearn yourtrustbecausewearededicatedtomanaging yourhomewithutmostrespect,professionalism, andmostimportantly,integrity.Callustodayto scheduleaconsultation.

SheisalsoaCertifiedImage,Interior&Industry DesignStyleStrategist,accreditedmemberof theNationalKitchen&BathAssociationand principalownerandstylistofCaraInteriors. CarahasbeenfeaturedinInspiredWestCoast Homes,PeaceArchNews,BCHomeMagazine, LoveMagazine,andIndulgeMagazine.Sheis alsoaco-authorofPursuit365BusinessEdition. Yourhomeisanextensionofyouridentity, sowepromisetodoitright.Listeningintently toyourneeds,wewillworkcloselywithyou andourcontractorsthrougheverystepofthe processtoensureyourhomeisexactlytheway youwantit.Wedon’ttakeresponsibilitylightly. Weearnyourtrustbecausewearededicated tomanagingyourhomewithutmostrespect, professionalism,andmostimportantly,integrity. Callustodaytoscheduleaconsultation.

CARAINTERIORS

ChildCare&Education

SandraChristian,Founder/President

ABOUTMYBUSINESS:

QualitychildcareforchildrenNewbornto10yrs.

■ InfantToddlerCare

■ 3-5yrChildCare

■ PreKandExtendedPreK

■ SchoolAgeCare.IncludingPro-DDayandSchoolHolidaycare

InJuly1996,Ms.SandraChristianhadthevisionto integratethepreschoolprogramshehadwrittenandthe logoshehaddrawnwhilecompletingherEarlyChildhood Educationprogramintoherownpreschoolcenter.Shealreadyhadanamechosen andproceededtobuyadouble-wide,oldrundownportableatthebackof ColebrookUnitedChurchonPanoramaRidge,Surrey.

29yearslater,CreativeKidshasgrownto8locationsacrossSurrey,Langleyand Chilliwackwithover200qualityeducatorsandcloseto1000families.Facilitiesrange insizefrom4,000to11,000squarefeet.Sandraisproudofthehappy,nurturingand creativeenvironmentthathasbeencreatedforall childrenandfamiliesovertheyears.

CreativeKidspridesitselfonbeinganorganizationwithapersonalconnectiontoour children,teachers,families,andcommunity.Workingcloselywithparentsthrough apositiveandunhurriedatmosphere,westrivetodevelopthechild’sinterestin learning.Ourhighly teachersstrivetoofferafun,social,andstimulating academicprogram.Weaimtoprovideearlylearningskills,appropriatesocialskills andleteachchildexplore,playandbeascreativeastheywanttobeinasafe,loving environment.

FromaseedplantedinSandra’sheart,manythousandsofchildrenhave fromCreativeKidsvisionof“PlantingtheSeedforFurtherEducation’TM hasbeen embracedbytheentireCreativeKidsFamily.

http://www.creativekidslearningcentres.ca/

Visit www.creativekidslearningcentres.ca toview thewiderangeofprogramsfromqualityinfant carerightthroughtoqualityschoolagecare.

RealEstateProfessional

AmandaMilford– YourTrustedRealtorinWhiteRock&Surrey

AmandaMilfordofTheAgency-WhiteRockisatop-rated realtorknownforhermarketexpertise,efficiency,and compassionateservice—especiallyduringlifetransitions. Recognizedasoneofthetop1.2%ofrealtorsinthe FraserValleywitha4.9-starratingonGoogle,clientstrust herforaseamlessbuyingandsellingexperience.

Amanda’smovetoTheAgencyinJuly2024haselevated herservicethroughaglobalnetwork,creativemarketingstrategies,andahighly collaborativeenvironment.“WediscusslistingsinourTuesdaysalesmeetings,andI nowofferprofessionalvideosforeveryproperty—helpingclientsgetfasterresults.”

Withadecadeofexperience,Amandaoffersafull-serviceapproach,including buying,selling,staging,andtop-tierpropertymarketing.Shetailorssolutionsfor bothresidentialanddevelopmentpropertieswhileguidingclientsthroughshifting marketconditionswithconfidenceandease.

Socialmediaisanimportantwaytoreachoutandconnectwithclientsandthe public.AmandahasanactiveInstagrampagewhereyoucanfeelfreetoask questionsandengage.“LivinginWhiteRock,Ican’thelpbutfeelincrediblygrateful. I’mgratefultoliveinsuchabeautifulplace,gratefultobeCanadian,andgratefulto haveraisedmykidshere.Thiscommunityisn’tjustwhereIwork—it’swhereI’vebuilt alife,metincrediblepeople,andsharedintheirjourneysoffindinghome.”

Beyondrealestate,Amandaiscommittedtogivingback,activelyfundraisingfor WomenofOptionsandtheBCFoodDrivewhilehostingfamily-friendlyeventslike herannualFoodTruckinthePark.Shealsosharesmarketinsightsonsocialmediato keepclientsinformed.

Let’sMakeYourNextMoveYourBestMove! www.white-rockproperty.com @amandamilfordrealtor

FamilyLawyer&Mediator

KendellePollittLLB,Q.Med.

KendellePollittisahighlyexperiencedfamilylawyerand mediatordedicatedtohelpingclientsnavigatecomplexfamily lawmatterswithcompassionandprofessionalism.Asthefounder ofPierLaw&Mediation,awell-respectedfamilylawfirminWhite Rock,BritishColumbia,Kendelleprovidescomprehensivelegal supportinareassuchasseparationanddivorce,childcustody, propertydivision,common-lawseparations,andadoption. Shealso specializesindraftingpersonalizedpre-nuptialandcohabitationagreements, ensuringherclients’long-termsecurityandpeaceofmind.

amanda.milford@theagencyre.com 6043302975

Withastrongfocusoncollaborationand conflictresolution,Kendelleworkscloselywithfamiliesto findamicablesolutionsthatminimizestressandlegalbattles.Asacompassionateandexperienced mediator,shehelpsclientsresolvedisputesoutsideofcourt,fosteringconstructivedialogueand mutuallybeneficialagreements.Herempatheticapproachanddedicationtoalternativedispute resolutionsetherapartasatrustedadvocateforfamiliesundergoingdifficulttransitions.

UnderKendelle’sleadership,PierLaw&MediationhasbecomeacornerstoneoftheWhiteRock legalcommunity,offeringprofessionalandcompassionateguidancetoclientsfacingfamilylaw challenges.Hercommitmenttoexcellencehasearnedthefirmnationalrecognition,including beingnamedoneofCanada’sTopGrowingCompaniesin2024byTheGlobeandMail.

Beyondherlegalpractice,Kendelleispassionateabouteducatingandempoweringclients, providingclear,practicaladvicetohelpthemmakeinformeddecisions.Herabilitytobalance legalexpertisewithadeepunderstandingoffamilydynamicsensuresthateachclientreceives personalizedandstrategicsupporttailoredtotheiruniquesituation.Kendelleisalsodeeply committedtosupportinghercommunity.AstheTitleSponsorforthisyear’sFarmersMarket,a PlatinumSponsorforBrightWalkfortwoconsecutiveyears,andaproudsponsorofWhiteRock PrideWeekandtheSemiahmooRavens,shedemonstratesherdedicationtomakingapositive impact.Additionally,KendelleandherteamhelpedraisemoneyforColdestNightoftheYear, furtherunderscoringhercommitmenttolocalcausesandcommunitywell-being. Withareputationforintegrity,professionalism,andaclient-firstapproach,KendellePollitt continuestobealeadingforceinfamilylawandmediation,guidingfamiliesthroughlife’smost challengingtransitionswithcareandexpertise.

#205-1522FinlayStreet.WhiteRock•(604)560-8285 Info@pierfamilylawyers.com•www.pierfamilylawyers.com

medicalaesthetician

LeahCorrin

CEO+FounderofEssenceofLMediSpa+EOLSkincare

“Buildingabusinessasawomanintoday’sworld comeswithitschallenges,butitisalsoatestament toourabilitytoleadwithcompassion,innovation, andstrength.IfoundedEssenceofL20yearsago, asasanctuaryofbeautyandwellness,tohelpothers regaintheirconfidencethroughtransformativeskincaresolutions.Inspiredbymy ownjourneybattlingcysticacne,Icommittedtoprovidingholistichealingand personalizedcare.ThroughcuratedtreatmentsandtheEOLMedicalSkincare™️ productline,EssenceofLaddressesavarietyofskinconcerns,delivering exceptionalresults.

Throughoutmycareer,Ihavelearnedthatsuccessisnotjustaboutachievinggoals; itisaboutempoweringotherstofeelconfidentintheirownskinandinspiring themtopursuetheirdreamsfearlessly.Ihavealwaysbelievedthateducationand personalizedcarearethefoundationoftruesuccessintheskincareindustryandin life.AtEssenceofL,Istrivetomakeeveryclientfeelseen,heard,andsupported ontheirjourneytohealthier,moreradiantskin.Itailoreverytreatmenttoaclient’s uniqueneedsbecausetruebeautybeginswithin.

ThisInternationalWomen’sDay,Iamproudtocelebratenotjustmyown achievements,butthecountlesswomenwhoinspiremeeverydayfromclients, andcolleagues,toentrepreneursalike.Letuscontinuetolifteachotherup,break barriers,andredefinewhatitmeanstobestrong,ambitious,andcourageous. Together,wecancreateaworldwhereeverywomanfeelsempoweredtoshine.” www.essenceofl.com604.531.0575

SANDRACHRISTIAN

RealEstateSpecialist

CrystalWilliams

AsecondgenerationRealtorwith17years ofexperience,Crystalhasbuiltastrong reputationintheindustry.Growingupin SouthSurrey,shebeganhercareerin2008 andquicklymadeanimpact,achievingtop 1%salesvolumewithintheGreaterVancouver RealEstateBoard.

Diversifyingherrealestatecareer,Crystalworkedasasales representativeforseveraltopLowerMainlanddevelopers.Herin-depth marketknowledgecombinedwithacollaborativeapproachhelpsher clientsnavigatetheever-changingrealestatelandscape.

NowasteamleaderattheWilliamsRealEstateTeam,Crystalis committedtobuildingtrustandmaintainingclientrelationships.She offersamultitudeofservices,includingbuying,selling,marketing, homestaging,andexpertnegotiation.Whetheryou’repurchasingyour firsthome,downsizing,orinvesting,shebringsastrategicmindsetand personalizedservicetoeverytransaction.

Astrongfamilyethosandclient-firstapproachensuresyouarefully supportedwhenworkingwithCrystalandtheWilliamsRealEstateTeam.

https://www.williamsrealtors.ca

HelenPetre

PUBLICACCOUNTANT

“Accountingisforanytypeofbusiness.Idon’thavea nicheofclients.Anybodyneedsmyhelp—I’mthere.” HelenPetreissteadfastandfocusedonclientcareand clarity.Sheemphasizeshowitdoesnotmatterhowa businessissetup,theirsize,orcurrentstate,sheisthereto offeraccountingadvice&support.

Shealsodoesitfromaplaceofintrinsicloveforthework.“IlovewhatIdo.Ithinkit’s insultingtocallitajob.Newclients,newmessynumbers—Icallitfoodforthebrain.” Workingwithclientsindozensofsectorsincludingconstruction,manufacturing, non-profit,unions,andwithover20yearsofexperience,sheseesallperspectives ofassistingwithbookkeeping.“It’sgoingbeyondthebusinessside.Makinga connectionwithaclient.Buildingthatconnection.”Surpassingtheservicesof financialstatements,taxes,andsoftwareselection,sheisalsopassionateabout educatingandmakingclientsfeelempowered.“Ifaclientiseagertolearnand beinvolved,Iamsohappy.”Helenalsounderstandshowtomeetclientsatwhere theyareandprovideoptions.Consultationsareaboutassessing,investigating,and quantifyinghowhands-onaclientwantstobeinthecontinualaccountingprocess. “I’mguidingclients.I’mbehindthem.It’sultimatelythebusinessowner’sdecision.It’s theirbusinessandtheirvision.Ijustwanttoguidethemtotheirvision.”

http://www.helenpetre.com/

LawProfessionals

KimKarrasandBrookeFernandes InternationalWomen’sDayisadaytoshowoursupport andsolidarityforwomeninordertohelpdrivepositive changeforwomenworldwide.

KimKarras,principalofBKSLaw,haspracticedlaw for38years(thelast26intheSouthSurrey/White Rockcommunity)andhasseenalotofchangeinthe opportunitiesforwomenandtheirrolesinbusinessandthe legalprofession.

Thethemeofthisyear’sInternationalWomen’sDayis “Womenof Influence”.Thereisupwardmomentuminthe legalindustryandwomennowmakeupover40percentof practicinglawyersinCanadaandhavemadelargestrides movingintopartnershipandseniormanagementroles.

Thelawyersandstaff(whichincludes13women)atBKSwanttocongratulate andsupportalllocalbusinessownersandindividualsinourcommunitywho embraceequityeverydayandarecommittedtocreatingenvironmentswhere allwomencanthrivetotheirgreatestpotential.

KimKarrasandassociatelawyer,BrookeFernandes,focusonestateplanning, estateadministration,corporateandbusinesslaw.Thesecommittedwomen areapproachable,empatheticandsensitivetoclients’needsandcircumstances. OnInternationalWomen’sDay,theywishtocongratulateandapplaudall womenwhoareworkinghardeverydaytohelpdrivesuccessforall.

JessicaLin,K-12WritingTutor

https://bkslaw.com/

Personalized Tutoring

ps://bm/

TheSouthSurreyTutor TailoredLearningforEveryStudent MeetJessicaLin,thefounderofSouthSurreyTutor.With auniquecombinationofexperienceinEarlyChildhood Education(ECE),journalism,andcreativewriting,Jessica helpsstudentsfromKindergartenthroughGrade12,aswellasadults,achievetheir educationalgoalsthroughpersonalizedlessonplans.

DrawingfromherbackgroundinECE,Jessicaknowshowtoengagestudentsand meettheirindividuallearningneeds.Shelovestailoringlessonsforeachstudent, somethingshecouldn’tdowhenteachinglargergroups.“Ilovegettingtoknowmy studentsovertimeandadjustingmyteachingapproachtokeepthemengaged,” saysJessica.

SpecializinginK-12LanguageArts(reading,writing,speaking,spelling),Jessica offersone-on-onetutoringforstudentsinSouthSurreyandWhiteRock.Sheprovides flexiblelearningoptions,includingbothonlineandin-personsessions.HerAdultESL classesfocusonimprovingcomprehension,pronunciation,andlisteningskills,with Mandarintranslationavailablewhenneeded.

“Iloveprovidingtheindividualattentionthatstudentswouldn’ttypicallygetinabusy classroom,”saysJessica.Whetherit’senhancingdescriptivewritingskillsorcrafting moreconciseessays,Jessica’sapproachfocusesonfosteringapositive,engaging learningexperience.

Readytostartyourlearningjourney?Bookafreeconsultationatsouthsurreytutor.com oremailthesouthsurreytutor@gmail.comtogetstarted.

thesouthsurreytutor@gmail.com SemiahmooLibrary 1815152StUnit100,Surrey,BCV4A9Y9

HELENPETRE PUBLICACCOUNTANT

BrookeFernandes Associate

KimKarras Principal

Thursday

Semiahmoo Rotary Club meets weekly at Rotary Fieldhouse at 7 a.m. Call Vinod for more info 604-644-5484

Bingo at Crescent Legion, weekly, card bingo from 6:30-9 p.m.

South Fraser Community Band welcomes new members, particularly needing brass/horns, rehearsals every Thurs. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Earl Marriott Secondary. Email membership@ sfcb.ca or visit www.sfcb.ca

Low Vision Support Group, fourth Thursday every month at 1 p.m., ‘Learning to live well with vision loss’, contact info: Jane 604-5365247

Friday

Library Social Hour weekly at 10 a.m. Join us in the lobby of White Rock Library for tea, coffee and great conversation. Meet new friends as we explore games, activities and more

Saturday

Laughter Yoga on April 5, May 3 and June 7 at White Rock Library at 11 a.m., all invited for laughs and fun while embracing health, for more info call Nicole at 604-961-4211

Sunday

Scrabble Sundays at Ocean Park Library weekly at 1 p.m. Join for Scrabble on Sunday afternoon, enjoy a cup of tea and friendly competition. Or play chess, checkers, cards, dominoes, crib, or Yahtzee, games provided. All adults welcome

O’Carolan Celtic Ensemble meet bi-weekly. Interested musicians contact 604-802-0525 or 604-329-5957

Craft N’ Yarn event for casual crafting, weekly, all levels welcome, not instructional class, 3-4:30 p.m. at Ocean Park Library Crescent Legion live jazz/swing events every Sunday, info at www.whiterockjazz.ca or 604531-9259

Monday

Coding for kids at White Rock Library on March 17, 3 to 4 p.m. Come and try basic coding with Cubetto and Code&Go Robot Mouse. Children 10 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

Oneness Gogos meetings at White Rock Library on April 14 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., visitors welcome, email for more info at onenessgogos@gmail.com

Chair Yoga second Monday of each month by donation to Sources food bank at 9:30 a.m.

datebook

at 15115 Roper Ave.

Toastmasters meet every second week from 7-8:30 a.m. at Amica 15333 16 Ave., new members welcome, contact Manjit for more info at mp_johal@hotmail.com

Tuesday

Movie Matinee on March 25 from 1-3 p.m. at Ocean Park Library for adults, drop-in, screening of ‘Cold Comfort Farm’

White Rock & District Garden Club Keep calm and garden! Tiny, small or large garden, we have you covered. Join on the second Tuesday of each month except July and August at Cranley Hall 2141 Cranley Drive at 2 p.m. Visitors welcome. If the parking lot is full, park on Cumbria, and enter the hall from behind. For more information visit website at whiterock-garden-club.ca

King’s Banquet Soup Kitchen Supper, weekly from 4-6 p.m. at 15262 Pacific Ave., family seating available, donations accepted but not expected

Spanish Conversation Group for intermediate and advanced speakers, 2 p.m. weekly at Java Express at 15090 North Bluff Rd.

White Rock Rotary Club meetings every week at noon, call Winston 778-908-3377

Wednesday

Men’s probus club of White Rock and South Surrey, meetings every second Wednesday of month with a speaker then luncheon, meetings at Rotary Fieldhouse 12850 26 Ave. email probuswrssmembers@gmail.com for more info

Jam Sessions at Crescent Legion, weekly, Bluegrass Jams from 7-10 p.m.

South Surrey Rotary Club meetings and social events every week, call Deidre for more details at 604-803-0773

The Rotary Club of Nature Celebrators B.C. meets every 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at #246-1959 152 St. For further information, please contact Stephen Crozier at 778-584-9874

Ongoing

Seniors Slo-Pitch South Surrey team looking for players, men 55+ and women 50+, some skill required, play at Softball City, season starts April and ends in June, games on Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., contact Carlos Lapena email chiroc@telus.net

White Rock Elks Club entertainment on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Live entertainment, dance, jam sessions, learn more

on website

Chess Club at White Rock Library on Thursdays and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., for more info call 604-541-2201

Tutoring for adults by READ Surrey/White Rock one-on-one or online, reading, writing or math, trained tutors, free, contact 778-242-7323

Gamblers Anonymous Has gambling taken over your life? Call Gamblers Anonymous at 1-855-222-5542 to speak to someone now Gam-Anon Is someone else’s gambling affecting your life? Family and friends are welcomed. For more info call 604-626-9418 or email vancouvergamanon@shaw.ca

White Rock Legion entertainment every Friday and Saturday, night sports leagues, meat draws at 4 p.m., everyone welcome, located at 2290 152 St. Al-Anon support group for family/friends of those with drinking issues, four different locations in South Surrey/White Rock, call 604-688-1716 for more info

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in White Rock, call 604-434-3933 for more info

White Rock South Surrey Newcomers social club for women new to the area or have experienced life changes in the last three years. Email wrssnewcomers@gmail.com

Weareexcitedtoshowcaseourlatest campaign, HealingStartsHere.This $5Mprojectbringschefs,dietitians,and foodservicestafftogethertocreatea newhealthcarecuisineatPeaceArch Hospital.Theywillcraftnutritionalmeals thatmeetclinicalneedswhilerestoring comfortandhospitalitytomealtime, transforminghospitaldiningfrombasic sustenancetoathoughtfulintegration ofnourishmentandhealing.

Surrey company aims for overseas markets

Tom

Zillich

Surrey-based HealthTech Connex is among seven B.C. companies to receive a share of $18.3 in federal PacifiCan funding that aims to help businesses “scale up their operations, create more jobs, accelerate growth and bring made-in-B.C. products to markets around the world.”

A life-sciences company, HealthTech Connex will receive $3.7 million to help commercialize its NeuroCatch Platform brain-imaging medical device across North America, Australia, New Zealand and Europe.

Funding was announced Monday (March 3) at Surrey City Hall by Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), following a morning tour of HealthTech Connex’s home on 96 Avenue, north of Surrey Memorial Hospital.

Dr. Ryan D’Arcy, company co-founder, president and chief scientific officer, says the funding “will greatly help (to) rapidly scale NeuroCatch deployment further across the globe to all points of care where clinicians need a simple and powerful tool to evaluate the cognitive health of their patients.”

The six other B.C. companies to

Dr. Ryan D’Arcy, the co-founder, president and chief scientific officer of Surrey-based HealthTech Connex, at a PacifiCan funding news conference at Surrey City Hall held Monday, March 3. (Contributed to Surrey Now-Leader)

benefit from PacifiCan funding are EggSolutions Vanderpol’s of Abbotsford ($5 million to expand manufacturing and reach new markets), 4AG Robotics of Salmon Arm ($2.5 million for robotic mushroom harvesting technology), MarineLabs of Victoria ($1.8 to grow its ocean data network), Mustimuhw Information Solutions of Duncan ($3.26 million for the expansion of its digital health platform), VitaminLab of Victoria ($921,000 to expand operations) and Pledge Resource Managers of Kelowna ($1.1 million to scale up production

of its smart shower system).

The news conference at city hall was attended by Sajjan along with Randeep Sarai (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs, Surrey Centre MP) and Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke.

PacifiCan is advertised as “the federal economic development agency dedicated to British Columbians.”

Sajjan says people of this province are known around the world for innovation.

“Business leaders across the province are transforming industries like agriculture and digital technology,” he stated. “PacifiCan is here to support these businesses. The investments announced today will strengthen B.C. companies’ competitiveness and help to ensure long-term prosperity for all British Columbians.”

The next intake for PacifiCan’s Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) program opened Tuesday, March 4; the portal will remain open for companies to submit expressions of interest until April 30, on the website canada. ca. Through BSP, PacifiCan makes repayable contributions to high-growth businesses in B.C. that are scaling and bringing innovative goods, services or technologies to market.

21 Women in Business Awards finalists named

Tom

Zillich

Finalists for the 2025 Women in Business Awards have been announced by Surrey Board of Trade and South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce.

Lending Centres Valley Financial Specialists

LeiLani Kopp, Sweet LeiLani Cosmetics

Supneet Chawla, ACE Community College

Professional

Jasmin Dhanda, ProSport Health Centre Ltd.

Kendelle Pollitt, Pier Law and Mediation

Naiya Gill, Naiya Gill Professional Law Corporation

Not-for-Profit Leader

Harpo Mander, 5X Festival

COMMUNITY LAWFIRMS

Whenyouneedadviceturntoyourcommunityexperts.

TheImportanceofTrustsinEstatePlanning

Estateplanningisacrucialaspectoffinancialmanagementthatinvolves thecreationofaplantomanageanindividual’sassetsaftertheirdeath.Itis importanttoensurethatyourassetsaredistributedinaccordancewithyour wishesandthatyourlovedonesareprovidedforafteryouaregone.One importanttoolusedinestateplanningisatrust.

Arlene Dickinson, the Canadian business leader and longtime star of TV’s Dragons’ Den show, has been announced as the guest speaker of the 2025 Surrey Women in Business Awards. The annual awards luncheon is hosted by Surrey Board of Trade (SBOT) and South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce, on Friday, April 11 at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel.

In recent years, keynote speakers at SBOT’s Women in Business Awards have included Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, Chantal Kreviazuk, Jody Wilson-Raybould and Erin Brockovich.

For 2025, 21 finalists in seven award categories were announced Tuesday, Feb. 11:

Entrepreneur - Large Business

Farah Rattansi, My Empower Therapy

Neesha Hothi, Better Business Bureau

Rhea Hubbard, Alex House Corporate Leader

Andrea Roberts, RascalHR Systems Inc.

Christine Morrison, Loblaw Companies Limited

Hermina Khara, Odgers Berndtson

Emerging Leader

Arshita Saini, GluteNull Ella Cachin, Civic Hotel

WhatisaTrust?

Atrustisalegalarrangementthatallowsanindividualtotransferownership oftheirassetstoatrustee,whothenmanagesthoseassetsonbehalfof thebeneficiaries.Therearetwomaintypesoftrusts:inter-vivostrusts, establishedduringanindividual’slifetime,andtestamentarytrusts,created asaresultofdeath,suchasinawilloraninsurancedeclaration.

WhyareTrustsImportantinEstatePlanning?

•AvoidingProbate

•ProtectingAssets

Jayshree Stephen, Little Footprints Academy

Shelina Mawani, Nana’s Kitchen and Hot Sauces Ltd.

Entrepreneur – Small Business Jennifer Woodley, Dominion

14

Karmin Dhindsa, Surrey Christmas BureauSocial Trailblazer

Sandy Dosanjh, Fit Bloom

Susan Bains, Equal Access Collective

Vandana Khetarpal, Western Community College

15

•ProvidingforBeneficiaries

•TaxPlanning

GettingProfessionalAdvice

Itisimportanttoseekprofessionaladvicewhencreatingatrustasthere aremanyfactorstoconsider,includingthetypeoftrust,thebeneficiaries, andtaximplications.AtBKSLaw,wespecializeinestateplanningandcan helpcreateatrustthatistailoredtoanindividual’suniqueneedsandgoals. Additionally,afinancialadvisorortaxprofessionalcanprovideguidanceon howtobeststructurethetrusttoachievethedesiredoutcomes.

Trustsarevaluabletoolsinestateplanningthatcanprovidearangeof benefits.Byworkingwithateamofprofessionals,individualscancreate atrustthatmeetstheirspecificneedsandhelpsensurethattheirassetsare distributedinaccordancewiththeirwishes.

At BKSLaw, wehave the experiencetoassistyou.Contact KimKarras or BrookeFernandes

at WhiteRock Beach

17

18

19

Canadian musician/actor Chantal Kreviazuk at the 2023 Surrey Women in Business Awards in Surrey. (Anna Burns/Surrey Now-Leader files)

DependonyourlocalPeaceArch professionalstohelpwithreliable informationyoucancounton. Pleasewriteoremailany ofthese professionalswithany questionyou mayhave.Theymaybepublished!

PODIATRIST

What Is A Calcaneal

Bump?

A bony prominenceonthe backof your heel iscalled a ‘calcaneal bump’.Theseare most commonly associatedwith a high-archedfoot.Theback ofthe heelpushesandrubs against the backofthe shoe Boththe tendonand softtissues can becomeinflamed and painful.

Causes: In a high-archedfoot the heelbone (calcaneus) can have analteredalignment, which causesanenlargementofthe boneinthe back ofthe heel Often,the body willcreate afl uidfi lledsac (bursa) inorder toprotect the tendon and other softtissues. When wearing shoes or boots, this bursagetspushedupagainst the heelcounter, and becomes very painful.

Treatment: Try cuttingaway the heelareaofthe shoeinorder to reduce pressure against the bony prominence Or placea doughnut-shaped pad orstrippadding oneithersideofthebump tohelp reduce direct contact withthe shoe Ifthese don’twork,consulta podiatristwhomay treat thebursawith a topical orinjectable medicationto reduce the inflammation.Insevere cases surgery may be required inorder to remove someofthe offending bone sothatnormal activitiescan be resumed, pain-free

Prevention: If youhavea high-archedfoot,wearawell-paddedshoeorsneaker thatdoesnot have an excessivelyfirm heelcounter

ActivityRestrictions: None Itdepends onthe severity ofpainand inflammation. Q: A:

Dr.Howard Green

Grandview BusinessCentre (Adjacentto Shops atMorganCrossing)

306-2626Croydon Drive

604-560-5588

www.drhowardgreen.com

Realtor

Q: Howmuch doesstaging a homecost?

A:

KristinaEng Realtor

Hiringa professionalstaging company can costupwardsof $2000,payingfor design expertise, labour, andrental offurnishings I offer free staging for all my freestaging allmy listings,whichis exceptionallyrare. Myamazing professionalDesigner & StagerSerena DeWildt willgoto work,usingmy collectionof$50,000+ worthofstaging furniture, art,and decor items to showyour homeinthe bestpossiblelight.See the difference represented instunningprofessional photography, videos, floorplans, and drone photographywhen appropriate - all included Iwouldbehonouredtohelp youachieveyour real estatedreams. Contact metoday!

604-365-0991

Chiropractic Chiropractic

Isinflammationa goodorbadthing?

kristinaeng77@gmail.com www.KristinaEng.ca Freestaging included

HowmuchcanIearnbefore myOASisclawedback?

In2025,OldAgeSecurity(OAS)issubject toclaw back(alsocalled recovery tax)beginning attaxableincomeof$93,454. Foreachdollarearnedabove thislevel,15cents of OASpensionislost,andabove $151,668allof the OASpensionislost. Thisissimilartoan extra taxof15%ontop of regularincometax.

Fortunately there are severaleffectivewaysto reduce OAS claw back. Thesolutionscanbequitetechnical,soif youhave experienced OASclaw back,orhavereasontothink youmightbeat risk,besure tospeakwithan experiencedCharteredProfessional Accountant(CPA)orCertifiedFinancialPlanner(CFP).

Tutor

Q: How can I continue my child’s learningthroughoutthe upcomingSpringBreak?

A: SpringBreakisagreatopportunityto continuefunandengaginglearning withyourchildwhiletheyareoutof school.Herearesometipstohelp youmakethemostofthebreak:

Scott Pledger BCom, MBA

A:Explorenewsubjects. Usethistimeto explorelocalmuseumsandgalleriesto learnaboutnewsubjectsandareasofinterest.

A:Keepajournal. Encourageyourchildtowritedownstories andobservationsinajournaloverthebreak.Thiswill encouragetheirwritingskillsandfostercreativity.

A:Createaproject. Setupaprojectforyourchild overthebreak.Whetherit’sascienceexperiment, workofpoetry,orawrittenstory,thisisagreat activitytokeepyourchildbusyandlearningover thebreak!

Q: Q:

Thecourtorderedmychild’sother parent(theco-parent)topaychild support.HowdoImakesurethey followtheorder?

nsabout yourco-parentmeetingtheirsupport obligations,Iencourageclientstoregister withtheB.C.FamilyMaintenanceAgency (BCFMA).Thisisafreeservice.

BCFMAisabletocollectpaymentsandenforce ordersandagreementsrelatedtochildand spousalsupport.BCFMAkeepsdetailedrecordsofpayments,including keepingtrackoftimeswhentheamountofsupportthatispaidisless thanwhatwasordered.

EnrollingwithBCFMAcanalsobebeneficialtoco-parenting relationshipsasitreducestheneedfordirectcommunicationabout financeswhichcanbeastressfultopic.Thiscanultimatelyreducethe amountofconflictbetweenco-parents.

Whathappensifmyco-parentisnotpayingtheamount they’veagreedtoorhavebeenorderedtopay?

BCFMAhastheauthoritytotakestepstoensurepaymentsare made.Thisincludesbutisnotlimitedto:settinguppaymentplans, garnishingwages,andpreventingapartyfromrenewingtheir driver’slicenseorpassport.

Chiropractic ReverseMortgages

T se mortgagelendersinCanada, allofwhicharehighly reputableandregulated justlikeourbanks.Whileabout90%oftheir offeringsaresimilar,it’stheremaining10%that setsthemapart.

That’swhyhavingaconversationwitha potentialborrowerissoimportant.Itallows metounderstandtheiruniqueneedsand determinewhichlender—andwhichreverse mortgageoption—willbethebestfitforthem.

Thisisagreatquestion,andtheansweris both! Inflammationisthebody’sresponsetostress— it’sanalarmsystemthatsignalswhenattention andcareareneededinaspecificarea.Itserves asaprotectivemechanismtohelpusrecoverandheal frominjury.So,inthecaseofacuteinjury,inflammation isbeneficial!Thatbeingsaid,thesaying“toomuchof agoodthingisabadthing”applieshere.Inmodern society,weareconstantlybombardedwithvarious typesofstress(physical,chemical,andemotional),yet weoftendolittletoalleviateit.Asaresult,thebody remainsinastateoflow-grade,chronicsystemic inflammation.Thisongoinginflammationdivertsthebody’senergyfrom normalfunctionstofocusonreducingtheinflammation.Additionally,thehigh prevalenceofchronicdiseases(suchasdiabetes,cardiovasculardisease,and more)contributesitsownformofchronicinflammation,furthercomplicating thesituation.Overtime,thiscanleadtothebodyphysicallybreakingdown. Themoralofthestory:short-livedstressandinflammationarehelpfuland necessary—theykeepusalive.However,long-termstressandinflammation actasasilent,slow-movingkiller.

SouthSurreyChiropractic&Wellness #305-1656MartinDrive,Surrey,BC 604-531-6446

info@southsurreychiropractic.com www.southsurreychiropractic.com

104-2055152St,Surrey (604) 953-2646 grandview@oxfordlearning.com 203-18810 72 Avenue Surrey (604) 372-1580 clayton@oxfordlearning.com

https://www.oxfordlearning.com/

Whoshouldreceive RSVvaccination?

•Adults75+: Particularlythoseat higherriskofsevereRSV.

•Adults60+: Especiallyresidentsof nursinghomesorchroniccarefacilities.

•PregnantIndividuals(32-36weeks): ToprotectnewbornsfromRSV.

ApprovedvaccinesincludeAREXVYandABRYSVO.Consult yourhealthcareprovidertoseeiftheRSVvaccineisrightfor you.

TheRSVvaccineisnotcurrentlypubliclyfundedinBC,but someprivatehealthinsuranceplansmaycoverthecost.If you’reconsideringthevaccine,ourpharmacyteamishereto help.Feelfreetoreachouttouswithanyquestionsorformore informationoncoverageoptions.

877.807.2159(toll-free)or778.738.1119

FindmeonFB:tacoachingservices Challengingtimesmakeitdifficulttomanagedecisionsinmoments thatmayhaveleftyoutiedtoanemotionalresponse.Aseparation &divorcecoachwillhelpyounavigatethroughvariousstagesand matters,suchas Mygoalistocreateasafespacetobevulnerablein,without judgment,andtosupportyourvaluestomoveforwardwithoptimism.

Dr.KamMann A:

Pharmacist

Ketan Patel Pharmacist, CDE

Dr. HowardGreen Podiatrist

DaveLee CIM,CFP FCSI Senior Wealth Advisor

arts & entertainment

…on the Semiahmoo Peninsula

Student art at SAG displays ‘profound passion’

Tom Zillich

Surrey’s next generation of artistic talent is showcased at Surrey Art Gallery this winter and spring.

Until April 27, the biannual Art by Surrey Secondary Students exhibit features, yes, art by Surrey school students on walls of the gallery, at Bear Creek Park.

Admission is free to see the exhibit, which opened mid-February.

Annually, SAG collaborates with Surrey School District and Surrey Art Teachers Association to produce an exhibition of works by students from across the city, alternating between elementary and secondary schools.

The 2025 edition of Art by Surrey Secondary Students features a new cohort of creative young artists demonstrating technical skill and creative thinking, according to Rhys Edwards, assistant curator.

In addition to the traditional forms of drawing, painting and photography, the show also includes ceramics, with sculptures of hybrid animals, portrait vases and whimsical storage boxes.

Themes including climate change, the influence of social media and personal identity are reflected in self-portraiture, experimental film photography and pop-culture satire. Expressions of hope, personal growth and transition are also displayed, “signalling optimism for the future,” Edwards says.

“This year’s (exhibit) features a talented group of young artists,”he commented. “Their work is thought-provoking, technically complex, and demonstrates a profound passion for art-making, guided by the wisdom of their teachers.”

The art showcase includes statements from both students and teachers.

In January, Surrey Art Gallery’s 50th year kicked off with an exhibit of art by Toronto-based Rajni Perera, whose touring Futures features close to 30 works from various stages of her art career. The exhibit, which closes March 16, features multimedia work including drawing, painting, clay, wood, lanterns, new media sculpture, textile and synthetic taxidermy.

A Jan. 25 event at SAG also celebrated Cheryl Pagurek’s Winter Garden (an interactive digital collage developed out of a still-life photography series), Pass the Mic! (artworks curated by Semiahmoo Arts Society) and Nicolas Sassoon’s Liquid Landscapes (a Surrey-inspired series of animations returning on the new-look UrbanScreen venue at Surrey Civic Plaza).

A venue for digital art, UrbanScreen now showcases Varvara & Mar: We Are the Clouds, on view until May 4, from

30 minutes after sunset and ending at midnight. Previously located at Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre, UrbanScreen launched at Surrey Civic Plaza in December.

Last week, other events at Surrey Art

Gallery included a Thursday Artist Talk with Chris Murdoch (March 6, on “What’s Next? Maintaining Creativity as an Artist”), an Art & Feminism Wikipedia Edit-a-thon (March 8) and Family Art Party (March 9).

Semiahmoo Peninsula to host seniors’ choral festival

Alex Browne

The British Columbia Choral Federation (BCCF) and the Vancouver-based EnChor Choir will be welcoming singers and audiences to the Semiahmoo Peninsula for the federation’s upcoming Seniors’ Chorfest 2025, scheduled for April 9 and 10 at White Rock Baptist Church in South Surrey.

The Seniors’ Chorfest is a popular tradition that usually takes place every few years across the province – but the last event was held in Kelowna in pre-pandemic 2019.

Returning to the Lower Mainland this year with a ‘Colours of Spring’ theme, the revived festival promises a blend of rehearsals, social gatherings, and performances, providing an unforgettable musical experience for longtime singers.

“White Rock was home to BCCF Seniors’ Chorfest twice before – in 2005 and 2017 – under the leadership of White Rock’s Kent Street Choristers,” noted Willi Zwozdesky, BCCF executive director.

“This year’s 20th anniversary return marks an exciting full-circle for all of us.”

Event clinician will be Canadian conductor, composer, and arranger Erica Phare-Bergh.

Formerly based in Victoria and now residing in Alberta, Phare-Bergh has led multiple choirs, including Voices in Motion, an intergenerational research choir uniting individuals with dementia with their caregivers, students, and friends through music.

As hosts of the Seniors’ Chorfest, Vancouver’s EnChor Choir will be welcoming over 120 singers from choirs across B.C. The festival also

welcomes individual participants as well as full or partial choirs.

Highlighting the event will be a gala concert with a mass choir performance, featuring a repertoire selected, arranged and led by Phare-Bergh to match the ‘Colours of Spring’ theme.

The diverse repertoire will include composers ranging from CreeDene artist Sherryl Sewepagaham to the late George Harrison of the Beatles.

“Also figuring prominently in the celebrations will be choral arrangements by Erica,”Zwozdesky added.

“This will provide a rare opportunity for us to work with the arranger from start to stage.”

Morna Edmundson, artistic director of EnChor Choir, said she is also looking forward to working with Phare-Bergh.

“I’ve known Erica for decades, and she has a lot to offer in what I know will be an uplifting couple of days.”

She added she believes strongly in events such as the Chorfest because of the opportunity they provide to bring people together through music.

“Sitting beside a stranger with whom one shares the bond of choral singing is a joyful experience,” she said.

Non-singers who wish to support the event as spectators will be able to purchase tickets for the mass choir performance, which will take place at 7 p.m., April 10 at White Rock Baptist Church (1657-140th St.)

For more information, visit bcchoralfed.com/seniorschorfest or email seniorschorfest@bcchoralfed.com.

Ashton Dempsey’s “Simplified Value Self Portrait” (acrylic on paper) is featured in Surrey Art Gallery’s biannual Art by Surrey Secondary Students exhibit. (Photo courtesy Surrey Art Gallery)

Angelina Dai’s “Wavering Dynasty” (watercolour on paper) is featured in Surrey Art Gallery’s biannual Art by Surrey Secondary Students exhibit. (Photo courtesy Surrey Art Gallery)

EnChor, a 55-voice choir from Vancouver directed by Morna Edmundson, will host the BC Choral Federation Seniors’ Chorfest 2025, April 9 and 10, at White Rock Baptist Church. (Contributed to Peace Arch News)

‘Hot Flash Comedy’ comes to Surrey stage

Tom Zillich

Syd Bosel is coming to Surrey Arts Centre with Hot Flash Comedy, bringing tales from the trenches of her life, including the realities of being the mother of adult children, “surviving marriage for a thousand years, and other glories of nature.”

The Comox-based stand-up comic returns to the Main Stage on Friday, March 14 with fellow joke-tellers Helen Schneiderman (show emcee), Monique Bellamy and Brenda Prince, 7:30 p.m. curtain.

Known for razor-sharp wit and her relatable storytelling style, Bosel competed on the TV show Canada’s Got Talent, toured across Canada, won the 2024 Yuk Off comedy competition in B.C., has appeared on CBC’s The Debaters and released the comedy album Thanks for Swinging By last October, among other career highlights.

“She really is a star on the rise in the Canadian comedy scene, and that’s super inspiring both as a female comic and as someone in her 60s,” raved Nic Enright-Morin, a fellow comic who coordinates communications for Surrey Civic Theatres, presenter of Bosel’s show.

Years ago, the headliner took a break from comedy to raise kids, then got back into the busi-

ness after a battle with breast cancer 11 years ago.

Making people laugh and performing is Bosel’s happy place, and her age is something of a secret weapon.

“I don’t know what it is about me,” she said, “but lots of people, especially young men, really love my jokes. I don’t know if it’s because I’m not threatening or whatever, so they feel like they can just relax, but it’s always surprising to me how much they laugh.”

One no-go at Bosel’s shows is the subject of dementia, which her husband Ron is battling.

“I know not everyone who is caring for someone with dementia can get away and continue with their career like I’m doing,” she said. “But I hope I remind people to pursue their art or

their passion in some form, find community and do whatever they can that brings joy into their life. I hope people who are getting older realize that there is so much fun to be had still.”

Tickets for Bosel’s Surrey show range from $29 to $49 on tickets.surrey.ca, or call 604501-5566.

Also booked at Surrey Arts Centre, in the Studio Theatre, is We Don’t Talk About Book Club, a season-ending production for Whalley-based Royal Canadian Theatre Company.

Patricia Brooke’s new comedy, focused on four friends from college at their monthly book club meeting, world-premieres in a four-show run starting Friday, March 14, then moves across the river to Anvil Theatre for five more.

1:10,4:00,6:45,9:30PMDAILY

Children’s book author revisiting childhood dream

Sobia Moman

Dawn Mattson has spent years working, settling down and raising children, but that itch to return to writing and illustrating never left the Surrey woman.

First being driven to the desire to create a book in high school, Mattson ended up taking a different route in her work life post-school, but her artistic side never fully left her. Then, along with a friend, she released a children’s book filled with Mattson’s illustrations.

“This was the turning point for me. It brought all those dreams of creating my own books back to reality. I sat down and started writing and drawing. Next thing you know I have a book that is mine and mine alone,” Mattson said.

But she didn’t stop there –and now the Surrey author has released her sixth children’s book.

The first book began when Mattson was working in retirement living communities.

“In many cases, the problem these communities had is once dinner was over there was nothing to do. The seniors were bored and needed more to do during their daily lives,” she explained.

These concerns the residents had typically came to Mattson’s door, and she want-

started. Peacock was writing a children’s book for his grandkids and wanted to work with Mattson so she could create the illustrations for the book.

“Once he saw the paintings I did with his fellow friends, he decided to finally take the plunge. We created his very first book called Fun With Words.”

That may have been the first project, released in 2020, the two worked on, but it wasn’t the last. Hey Mister Bear is the title of the second book the two worked on and released together.

ed to do something to help. So, she decided to start running a paint night with the seniors once a week.

“I wasn’t sure how it would go as I hadn’t painted since high school. Well, let me tell you, I had a room full of people show up and away we went.

“It became such a fun way to spend a quiet weeknight that word spread to other homes. Next thing you know, I was painting in other places from independent to assisted and long-term-care homes.”

This initiative by Mattson led one of the seniors, James Peacock, to approach Mattson to help him with a project he had

After that came several children’s books such as Mr. Wiener Misdemeanour and Finnius Funk, My Pet Skunk, leading up to the latest offering Frog’s Guffaw Has a Flaw, which is about a frog who loves to laugh loudly but then one day swallows a fly that gets stuck in his throat. But this was not so comedic for him. If interested in reading more, Frog’s Guffaw Has a Flaw and Mattson’s other work can be found online on Amazon.

Still, even with all of life’s demands, Mattson continues to do her weekly paint nights with seniors, inspiring them with art alongside her own writing and illustrating.

“My life is very full,” she said.

Comox-based standup comic Syd Bosel brings Hot Flash Comedy to Surrey Arts Centre’s Main Stage on Friday, March 14. (Photo: surrey.ca)

Surrey author Dawn Mattson has been busy writing and illustrating children’s books while also working with seniors. (Contributed to Peace Arch News)

…on the Semiahmoo Peninsula

Surrey Eagles partner with Canucks alumni for groundbreaking game

Tricia Weel

A new Surrey Eagles initiative will pair junior hockey players with local students in a program designed to make a lasting difference in their lives.

To help raise at least $23,000 to fund the initiative, an upcoming game with Vancouver Canucks alumni as well as current and former Eagles players will serve as a fundraiser for the initiative, entitled Birds and Buddies. The game night, which happens on Saturday, March 22, is a special event that aims to raise approximately $1,000 per Eagles player for the upcoming season.

Fans can look forward to a thrilling match-up, featuring a split of Surrey Eagles Fred Page Cup champions and Surrey Eagles coaching staff, who will be taking on a team of Vancouver Canucks Alumni and Eagles rookies.

Additionally, to enhance the excitement, the first period will feature a mini skills competition, including a ‘Fastest Skater’ challenge, where four Eagles players compete in a head-to-head race, culminating in a final showdown, and a skills and shooting challenge, where players navigate obstacles and test their accuracy in a timed shooting event.

“Our goal is to have 23 kids –one per Eagle player – spread out throughout Surrey,” said Rob Brar, who co-owns the team with his brother, TJ Brar. “Our plan is for them to have a backpack for their buddy with books and Eagles gear and swag…that Eagles player will also come to the school, and he’s going to play ball hockey with the kid.”

The program will focus on including children who may be struggling socially or emotionally, or who may have experienced bullying or lack strong support systems, Brar said.

Players will also take their buddies on tours of the Eagles dressing room and show them how it all works behind the scenes, hold a ‘Breakfast with the Birds’ with the students and their parents, include them in post-game skates, and they’ll also give their buddies tickets for their families and classmates to come to a game, he continued.

“Then we’re going to recognize that kid on our jumbo screen so that kid feels like a million bucks when he goes back to school.”

The initiative, held in partnership with Rick’s Heart Foundation, is intended to foster mentorship, confidence, and connection through meaningful interactions with Ea-

gles players, as well as to promote social inclusion and create lasting memories.

“For these young students, knowing they have a ‘big bird’ looking out for them can make a world of difference, both in the classroom and beyond,” an Eagles release noted.

Corporate sponsors are still being sought for the March 22 Canucks alumni event, and proceeds from that night’s game will go directly toward Birds and Buddies. Donations will be accepted through personal contributions, corporate sponsorships, and game-day fundraising activities.

Interested sponsorship parties can email operations@surreyeagles.net, while tickets and more information can be found at surreyeagles.net

The South Surrey-based team, which just clinched a playoff spot and currently sits in third place

in the British Columbia Hickey League’s Coastal Conference, are the reigning Fred Page Cup champions after a winning season last year

Former Eagles goalie Ajeet Gundarah, who helped win the cup and currently plays for Sacred Heart University in the Atlantic Hockey America league, is also continuing on a streak of success, having just been named the AHA’s Rookie of the Week for a third time. He has also been named AHA Goalie of the Week three times so far this season, and was AHA Goalie of the Month in December. Catch this year’s team in action this Friday, March 14, at South Surrey Arena and save the date for the March 22 Surrey Eagles and Vancouver Canucks alumni game, also at the South Surrey Arena, with a 6:30 p.m. start. Tickets are available at tickets.surreyeagles.net and for more details, visit surreyeagles.net

Surrey Eagles in action earlier this season. (Surrey Eagles/X photo)

Former Surrey Eagles netminder Ajeet Gundarah is a big reason why the Sacred Heart Pioneers men’s hockey team is off to a great start this season. He most recently earned the AHA’s Rookie of the Week honour for a third time, and was also Goalie of the Week three times, as well as AHA Goalie of the month in December. (Sacred Heart University Athletics photo)

Sitting volleyball athlete wins Sport BC Award

Tricia Weel

A White Rock-raised sitting wheelchair athlete has won a Sport BC award.

Announced at its 57th annual Athlete of the Year Awards on Thursday (March 6), the awards recognize the province’s best in amateur sport including athletes, coaches, teams, and officials for outstanding performances in their 2024 sport season.

Danielle Ellis, who was raised in White Rock and attended Semiahmoo Secondary, won in the Female Athlete with a Disability category.

Ellis, who helped lead Team Canada to its first-ever Paralympic medal in sitting volleyball in Paris last September, said she felt honoured just to be nominated.

“There are so many amazing athletes in the province and I am so proud to have been a finalist this year. Being named the winner of the Sport BC Award was truly amazing,” she told Peace Arch News in an email Sunday (March 9).

“I hope that it shows young

athletes with disabilities that there is a space for them in sports and that they can reach their goals is they work hard.”

Ellis was less than two months old when doctors had to amputate her right leg below the knee, due to a diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma, a cancer of either soft tissue, connective tissue or bone.

Sport BC’s president and CEO Rob Newman thanked

the provincial government for its support in a release.

“The 57th Annual Athlete of the Year Awards celebrated sport in BC at all levels. We were inspired by the sport stories of all of our finalists, the category winners, and the organizations they represent,” he said.

“We are proud to bring the amateur sport community together and thank our guests, sponsors, and friends in sport.”

NOTHING BUT NET

Semiahmoo Secondary’s Jack Snead drives to the net in 4A basketball action at the Langley Events Centre, where 64 teams played for provincial titles in four divisions last Wednesday through Saturday. Snead, who dropped 47 points and 15 rebounds in Friday’s (March 7) game was that night’s player of the game, but despite excellent efforts, neither Semiahmoo nor the other three 4A Surrey teams (Tamanawis, Lord Twedsmuir, Holy Cross) advanced past the quarter-final round for the first time in several years. (Ryan Molag/Langley Events Centre)

FUNDRAISER EVENT - RAISING FUNDS TOWARDS THE BIRDS & RAISINGFUNDS TOWARDSTHEBIRDS BUDDIES COMMUNITY INITIATIVE COMMUNIT

THIS SPECIAL EVENT AIMS TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE SURREY EAGLES’ GROUNDBREAKING

THISSPECIAL EVENTAIMS TORAISEFUNDSFORTHESURREY “BIRDS AND BUDDIES” COMMUNITY INITIATIVE - A PROGRAM DESIGNED TO MAKE A “BIRDSAND BUDDIES”COMMUNITY -A TOMAKE LASTING DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF YOUNG STUDENTS ACROSS SURREY. SO GET READY LASTINGDIFFERENCEINTHELIVESOF YOUNGSTUDENTSACROSSSURREY. SOGETREADY FOR AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE WHILE HAVING A BLAST! FORANEXCITINGOPPORTUNITYTOMAKE DIFFERENCEWHILEHAVING

• Registeronlineatwhiterockcity.ca/register

• Byphone:604-541-2199

• InpersonattheWhiteRockCommunityCentre (15154RussellAve.),KentStreetActivityCentre(1475KentSt.) orCentennialParkLeisureCentre(14600NorthBluffRd.)

White Rock-raised athlete Danielle Ellis led Team Canada to its first-ever Paralympic medal in sitting volleyball last September in Paris. (Black Press Media file photo)

ROSS,JoyceMay(Joy)

SCARDINA,Onofrio‘Fred’

Born November23,1926,passed away peacefullyon February 14,2025 in WhiteRock, BC at age98.Hewillbelovingly remembered by hiswife of60 years,BettyScardina,hischildren, Karin Piett,Derrick Piett (Glenda), Celine Piett(daughter-in-law),his grandson,Jarod Piett (Ashley),his great-grandsonJackson Piettwho wasthe ‘appleofhiseye’ andhisniece Shannon Piett.Fredwillalsobelovinglymissed by hisbrothers, Joe Scardina and Frank Scardina(Rosemary).Hewillbe remembered by many other familymembersandgoodfriends.Fredispre-deceased by hisparents RosalineandGiuseppe, andhissiblings,TomasinaIsabelSiegmund,Samuel Salvador ScardinaandHarry EnricoScardina. CelebrationofLife willbeheld ata laterdate withlocationandtime tofollow. Heartfeltthanks to thecaring teammembersonthe5thfloorunit atPeace ArchHospital.

DavidEvansBurnside September5,1955–February21,2025

Withheavy hearts,we say goodbyeto David Burnside, whopassed away inthe comfort ofhis WhiteRockhomeon February 21st, 2025.David was a devotedfriend, uncle, brother, husband andfather.RaisedinBrandon, Manitoba,David embodiedthespiritof“Friendly Manitoba” like noother He wasalways up for a goodtime, and had a natural way ofbringingpeople together, whichisindicative ofthedearfriendshipshehas maintainedsince childhood

A skilledhandymanandloveroftheoutdoors, Davidspent his young adult yearsskiing,cookingup feastsonthebbq, soakinginthesun atKits Beach,and exploringBCwithhisbeloveddogs by hisside.Hiscareer took himacrossmany paths, withthelatterpart spent as a manufacturers’rep for Fore-Tenn Marketing

Butabove all, David was a familyman,carryingdeeploveforhissiblings, Valerieand Garth,andcherishing a strongbondwithallofhisnieces andnephews.His world revolvedaroundhislate wife, Lillian,andtheir daughter,Tessa. Forthelast33 years, Davidhelpedbuild a beautiful life filledwithjoy andadoration forthethreeofthemin WhiteRock We canalltake comfort in knowinghe’s now dancingwithLillian forever (hopefullywithsomeBruce Springsteenplaying inthebackground). We willmiss youevery day,Bernie

Jan12,1956–Jan9,2025

It iswithprofound sadnessthatwe announc e the passingof Joy Ross.

Joywas a strong andloving force in herfamily andthelives of others. Shemade many friendsand t ouched man y livesinthetimeshelivedin WhiteRock. Formanyyearssheorganizedsingles dances forthe over-40crowdat the Star ofthe Seaandsurroundingarea.Latershe co-foundedHeartmind Wisdombooks to bringpeople’s life stories to light, and theEarth Angelbooks, as wellasediting independent authors’ books Shealso co-founded Camelionnon-runhosiery andmademany friendsthere.

ACelebrationofJoy’s life willbeheld on Saturday,April5,2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the FirstUnitedSpiritualistChurch,5584 Kincaid St.,Burnaby.

StellaJeanPrice(Partaik)

Withheavyheartswearesadtoannouncethepassing ofourmom,Stellaattheamazingageof102.Stellawas bornJune21,1922,toDavidandGertrudePriceatVGH. Stellawasadevotedmother;shelivedalongandexciting life.Attheageof8sheandheroldersistersMonaand Gwladysangtothetrolleycarsat41stDunbar.Teddy Lions,theconductorwouldannouncethegirlswillbe singingtoyou,thepassengerslovedthemandshoweredthemwithmoney.Inthe30’sStella andhersisterssangonCJORastheSunshineSisters.Inthelate40’sStellametBillwhomshe marriedonJanuary17,1947.Theyhad3children,Maureen,DavidandShirley.Lateroninlife sheworkedatDunbarBakery,Birks,Woodward’s,andalsoasafootmodelforEaton’s,herfoot sizewas4.5,thiswasgreatforusgirls,beautifulshoesthatfit!Whendaddiedin1982,mom thenmanagedCher’sApparel.Sheretiredat65andenjoyedgoingonsmalltrips,playing bingoandcards,singing,andvisitingtheoddcasino.

Attheageof93shemovedtoJackmanManorinAldergrove,shewasthelongestresident andtheoldestat102.Shewillalwaysberememberedastappingherfingersonthetableand tellingthenurses“You’reFired”.Shewasagentlebutfeistyladyrighttotheend.Stella’sfamily wouldliketothankDanaandtheNursesforthekindnessandcompassion.

StellawaspredeceasedbyherhusbandBill,hersistersMonaandGwlady,son-in-lawDan, nephewRon,nieceSharonandgrandsonRandy.

Lefttomourn,daughterMaureen,sonDavid(Deanna),daughterShirley(Garry),grandchildren Lisa,Danny,Michael,andmanyniecesandnephews.

Momarrivedinheavenonthemostperfectday,February11th,Dad’sbirthday,whata wonderfulgift.

CelebrationofLifewillbeJune21st,onStella’sbirthday,inWhiteRock,theplaceshe lovedthemost.

SATURDAYMA

Volunteersupportis requiredforavariety ofrolesincluding

Applyonlineat pahfoundation.ca/gala oremailShonnaBreslawat volunteers@pahfoundation.ca

ACROSS 1.Cashdispenser 4.Airpollution 8.Illegalseizure 10.Shop 11.Besides 12.Spanishdish 13.Protectivecovering ofseeds

15.Greedyeater 16.Existingonlyinthe mind

17.Makerough 18.Cooperation 21.Awaytoconsume 22.Strikeoutabatter inbaseball 23.Swissriver 24.2Kpounds 25.Domesticated animal

26.Surroundsthe Earth

27.Legendaryactress

34.Seattleballplayer

35.Bluishgreens

36.Carryingofaboat

37.Havingaparticular shape

38.Takesadvantageof 39.TheDestroyer (Hindu)

40.Basmatiand saffronaretwo

41.Leakslowly through 42.Parrots

43.Midwaybetween southandsoutheast DOWN 1.Vinegary 2.Ohiotown 3.Bivalvemollusk 4.Typeofhat 5.Liquefiedbyheat 6.Syntheticacrylic fiber

7.Wildorsweetcherry 9.Flowersegment 10.Lizard-like 12.Whatpoliticians standon 14.Pie___mode 15.Indiancity 17.OldTVpart(abbr.) 19.Assaults

20.Paddle

23.Typesofphotos

24.Dorothy’sfriend wasmadeofthis

25.Soirees

26.Scottishport

27.Percussion instrument

28.Autoindustryicon Iacocca

29.Typeofdrug

30.Historiccityin Germany

31.Animaldisease

32.Somelikethemin martinis

33.Getaway

34.Entertainment

36.Whereballgames areplayed

AnswerstoAboveCrossword