West Vancouver Beacon | January/February 2024 | Edition 60

THE No. 60

BEACON Shedding light on the communities from Lions Bay to Dundarave

January/February 2024

Festival of Lights

F

or the past 15 years, Dundarave Festival of Lights has raised awareness and funds to combat homelessness on the North Shore. In 2023, thanks to the generosity of this community, the Forest of Miracles sold out. More than 150 trees, decorated by local businesses, families, schools, churches or community organisations, line the waterfront between Dundarave and the Grosvenor Ambleside Galleria. Each tree represents a donation to Lookout Foundation’s North Shore Shelter. At the time of this publication, nearly $40,000 has been raised from the 2023 festival. Founder Michael Markwick, with the tireless support of his wife Mary and their festival volunteer team, continues to organize this annual Christmas event.

The Forest of Miracles in Dundarave at sunset.

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IN THIS ISSUE 5

SENIORS CHRISTMAS LUNCH

TALKATIVE TEEN

8-9

THE WITNESS BLANKET

11

COMMUNITY KIDS

12

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TREKKING FOR N.S. SHELTER

Photo: courtesy of Michael Markwick

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See Page 3

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We are grateful to live and work on the unceded traditional territories of the Coast Salish peoples.

C H R I S T Y L A N I A DO. C O M

604.349.0098 Christy@RoyalLePage.ca

REALTOR® | Listing Specialist

! r a e Y w e N y Happ

2397 Marine Drive West Vancouver, BC V7V 1K9

PAGE 2

January/February 2024

LINDY PFEIL OPINION TEAM

On January and the two-faced god

Chris Stringer Publisher

chrisstringer @westvanbeacon.ca

Lindy Pfeil Editor

lindypfeil @westvanbeacon.ca

Penny Mitchell Advertising

pennymitchell @westvanbeacon.ca

Melissa Baker Creative Director

melissabaker @westvanbeacon.ca Please note that all contributing writers for The Beacon retain full rights and that the full or partial reproduction of feature articles is unauthorized without the consent of the author.

Personal opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed are solely those of the respective contributors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Beacon, the publisher or the editorial and creative staff.

Submissions for The Beacon The Beacon is delivered bi-monthly to 5000+ households between Lions Bay and Dundarave.

For submission guidelines and queries, please e-mail the Editor: lindypfeil@ westvanbeacon.ca Please note that all submissions are subject to space constraints and editing.

For advertising queries, please e-mail the Director of Marketing: pennymitchell@westvanbeacon.ca For all other queries, please e-mail the Publisher: chrisstringer@westvanbeacon.ca All editions of The Beacon (beginning in September 2013), can also be read online at: www.westvanbeacon.ca.

I

t was the Ancient Babylonians’ fault.

They were the ones who started the whole resolution-making thing 4000 years ago.

They organised a 12-day song and dance to celebrate each incoming year. There was a bit of crop planting; sometimes a new king was crowned; they promised to repay their debts; and then they paraded statues of the gods through the streets, hoping to curry favour for the next 365 days.

This all happened in March –because of the crop planting issue. The ancient Romans continued this tradition, celebrating their new year on March 15 – The Ides of March.

Until 46 BC, when Julius Caesar introduced a new calendar, and declared January 1 to henceforth and forever be the start of the new year. This was, he said, to honour Janus, the Roman god of transitions. Because he is the god of dualities (life and death, good and evil, war and peace, for instance) Janus has two faces – one facing the past, the other facing the future. So perhaps I should blame Janus for my end-of-year angst.

As the new year creeps closer, my looking back face agonises over everything I have failed to accomplish. My looking forward face vows to do better next time. Eat more greens. Drink less coffee. Bake gluten-free cookies for the neighbours. Bite my tongue before speaking to my sister. Exercise more.

Stop watching Bachelor in Paradise. It would be simpler to sacrifice a piglet and let the gods take charge.

Research has found that more than 80%

of New Year’s resolutions are broken before February. Mine have been among that 80%.

Every. Single. Year.

But no more! I have traded resolutions and broken promises for a “Word of the Year.”

A recent Google search for “how to choose a word of the year” produced 2.8 billion hits. Once again, I am not alone. The rationale (I think) is that selecting a word helps us focus on a state of being, rather than doing. Less prescription, more inspiration. Less chance of failure. More room for hope.

The word I chose for 2023, made with all the exuberance of a 59-year-old, was “adventure.” I was going to try to do as much as possible before the big six oh.

I should have heeded Aesop’s warning – be careful what you wish for. If you read any of my Beacon pieces last year, you’ll know that adventure did indeed happen. The mistake I made, though, was not being more specific. There are adventures that are fun.

And then there are those that are not. Lesson learned.

I resolved to do better in 2024. Keep it simple. Use the dictionary. Choose a onesyllable word. Three syllables were obviously just asking for trouble.

I took my time. Let the words stew. There were some frontrunners. All befitting my newly-wise 60-year-old-self. When a two- or three-syllable word flitted through my brain, I quickly rejected it. Janus was not going to get the better of me this year.

Just before new year arrived, I was in

Kelowna, visiting family. We were playing cards when I realised I still had not chosen my word. As I shuffled the pack, I explained the word-choosing process. I asked each of the family members to pick their word, hoping for some last-minute inspiration. There was some to-ing and fro-ing. But far too quickly everyone had chosen their word and it was my turn.

There were Christmas decorations, flickering candles, salted caramel chocolates.

And a new baby. A beautiful, soft, wide-eyed baby. My nephew’s baby boy. And in a peculiar case of DNA transmission, he looked just like my nephew had when I first met him – 33 years ago. His flyaway hair. His smile.

His Winston Churchill frown. The way he stared at me without blinking, as though he could see into my soul.

He smelled like fresh flowers. And love.

The future. Possibility.

And before I could stop it, my word popped out.

Leap.

Only one syllable. But not terribly serene.

Or wise. Or even sensible. Not even vaguely sixty-ish. But it was too late to take it back.

(That’s the rule.)

So, as 2024 enters, I take a deep breath, bend my creaky knees in anticipation, and hope that it’s a fun kind of leap. Not a drop off the edge of a cliff kind.

And if the landing is wonky, I will definitely blame the baby.

If you are not receiving home delivery of The Beacon please let us know at chrisstringer@westvanbeacon.ca

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January/February 2024

PAGE 3

Forest of miracles Continued from page 1

“From the very start, we’ve worked closely with Squamish Elder Wendy Charbonneau to create the Dundarave Festival as a place of deep and enduring reconciliation,” Michael says. “Families by the thousands gather at the festival to cherish each other. This shows the power of her teachings and blessing. It also shows the ways Mary’s hope and hard work, all year long, help bring life to our community.”

The 2023 People’s Choice winners are: Ridgeview Elementary and Cypress Park Elementary (Favourite School Trees), Mulgrave School and Mad Hatter’s Tea Party (Favourite Sustainable Trees), OEB Breakfast and Orca Realty (Favourite Themed Trees), Dio Piano School and Heritage Trust (Favourite Glitz and Glam Trees), and Cedardale and Freedom Marine Yacht Sales (Most Creative Trees).

www.dundaravefestival.com

Top: Freedom Marine Yacht Sales’ creative tree and the setting sun on decoration day.

Above: The Beacon tree.

Top: The bonfire blazing on December 23rd.

Above: Zazou Salon and Academy’s eye-catching topper.

Mary Markwick, Executive Director; Michael Markwick, Creator; Zoe Markwick, Volunteer; Sofia Kennedy, Co-Chair of the Dundarave Festival of Lights Society.

PAGE 4

ANNE BAIRD

January/February 2024

ANNE’S CORNER

Gym Rats

I

n 1997, I immigrated to Canada. Alone.

My late husband, Joe, was living and working in Mexico. Our three grown children had busy lives in Los Angeles.

I had a great job at the John Thomas Dye School in Bel Air. But I was lonely.

I had an overwhelming urge to come to Canada. Specifically, to West Vancouver, where my parents had lived for over 30 years, along with my younger brother, Jim. Moving isn’t easy. How do you make friends in a brand-new city when you’ve been embedded somewhere else for 20 years?

Following my instincts, I joined a church, became a member of the art gallery, and start-

ed fitness classes (The Pump Primers) with brother Jim, in the old Masonic Hall in West Van. The latter was particularly productive.

It wasn’t long before I had 14 new friends, including Wally, a super energized senior widower who leaped around the gym twice for every lap the rest of us ran. Each time he ran by me, he invited me to tea or coffee.

Though he never paused for an answer.

Many of the members of my first workout group have passed on to the great heavenly gym in the sky. But I will never forget them.

They were my anchor when I was a newbie.

The same is true of my present gym pals, though I’ve since graduated to the commu-

nity center’s elegant gym.

But 26 years later, there have been dramatic changes. Like the equipment! It took me months to learn to use just a fraction of the machines.

The Peloton rowing machine. The treadmill. The leg press. The knee knockers. The arm pulleys. The weights. I don’t even know the names of most of them!

But, as always, it’s the people who keep me going. They’re of all ages, ethnicities, and skill levels, doing their best to keep fit.

MICHAEL BERTON

W

Many of them have become fast friends too.

They notice when I don’t show up and, when I return to the fold, they want to know why.

A tip of the hat To the Gym Rat! They’ll be there for you when you’re looking for a place to belong.

DOLLARS AND SENSE

Pitfalls of joint property ownership

hile the joint ownership of property is usually a practical matter and a good one for estate planning, it has sometimes been done without proper guidance, often in the hope to avoid taxes. This is why the considerations leading to a joint ownership should be done with the professional advice of a lawyer and accountant to avoid later painful and unintended consequences. Consider some of the following pitfalls: You may trigger tax right away when you put a new person on title as a joint owner.

The transfer of a portion of the title is a dis-

position for tax purposes.

Giving up full control of the asset may affect your ability to freely manage it. For example, the joint owner may disallow its use as collateral. Joint assets may be exposed to creditors if your joint owner runs into financial difficulty or should a child joint owner become subject to claims resulting from marital breakdown.

If the asset generates income and the joint owner is a spouse, the attribution rules in the Tax Act may require you, not your spouse, to pay tax on all the income received. This can be avoided if you charge your spouse the

C U S TOM PLAN

CRA prescribed rate of interest. Again, seek professional advice.

Should you add a joint owner to your principal residence, only you will be able to use this exemption on your portion of the property value. The other portion may be taxable if the joint owner owns another principal residence.

If you own income-producing real estate jointly (spouse or other), you run the risk of having the CRA deem it to be a partnership and require you to file the new Underused Housing Tax (UHT) return annually.

Finally, at death, there is the risk that your

intention for the jointure may be unclear to your heirs. It may be argued that the joint ownership was intended only for practical lifetime purposes but not for the purpose of inheritance. Whether intended or not, the joint owner is under no requirement to share the asset. Such things can lead to family strife and sometimes messy and costly legal challenges. This can be avoided with proper legal and accounting advice.

Michael Berton is a retired financial planner enjoying his Alexandrian Age on the North Shore.

Specializing in the accumulation, preservation & transition of wealth.

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January/February 2024

PAGE 5

Trekking in Ecuador for shelter on the North Shore

BY Caroline Baile

T

his past November, I had the privilege of joining the 2023 Charity Challenge to Ecuador, supporting the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation, and our local North Shore Crisis Society. Our group of Royal LePagers trekked towards one of the highest active volcanoes in the world for a cause I am extremely passionate about.

As realtors, we help people find their perfect homes. Not just a roof over their heads, but a place they can feel comfortable and safe. This is not the case for many – even right here in our own community.

The Canadian Women’s Foundation estimates that, on average, 6,000 women in Canada (many with their children) flee unsafe homes and seek housing in emergency shelters every day. A CBC investigation found that more than 600 of them are turned away each night, because the shelters are full. Tragically, every 6 days in Canada a woman is killed by her current or former partner (Statistics Canada, 2009).

These women are literally running for their lives. They deserve a safe space, support services, and encouragement that a brighter future is possible. Educating our youth about building healthy relationships is also key to breaking the cycle of family violence in Canada.

Our trek towards Cotopaxi Volcano, in support of these women, proved to be an incredible journey. With friends and colleagues from across the country, we faced challenges, laughed, and cried together. We pushed our physical, mental, and emotional limits, reconnecting with old friends and forming new bonds against the backdrop of Ecuador’s stunning landscapes. Most im-

portantly, we raised money and awareness for women and children escaping domestic violence. It was an unforgettable experience that combined personal growth, exploration, and a meaningful contribution to a crucial cause.

The trek provided many challenges, some of which started long before we stepped on the plane to Quito.

Financial Challenge: Each trekker covered their own expenses including flights, hotel, meals, and equipment, so that 100% of every dollar raised went directly to the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. Of the money I raised, 80% went directly to the North Shore Crisis Society, with the remaining 20% funding national programs in the hopes of stopping the cycle of domestic abuse.

Fundraising Challenge: The purpose was to raise crucial funds for local women’s shelters and domestic violence prevention programs. After months of fundraising efforts, the 120 Royal LePage agents on the trek collectively raised an incredible $1.7 million! This would not have been possible without the generous donations and unwavering support of our community.

Terrain/Weather Challenge: It was a grueling, high-altitude trek with demanding landscapes and unpredictable weather, rapidly changing from scorching sun to torrential downpours and freezing temperatures at night. Even the most resilient and physically fit trekker in our group found the altitude and terrain to be taxing, but we persevered.

Emotional Challenge: While much of the focus was on fundraising and physical preparation, the emotional aspect proved to be the most demanding. Each day, a letter from a survivor of domestic abuse was

shared, serving as a poignant reminder of the purpose of our journey. The challenges of sleeping in tents, having no washrooms or showers, and enduring extreme weather conditions pale in comparison to the struggles women and children face when fleeing a violent home.

The trek is now behind us, but the memories and friendships will last a lifetime. I am truly grateful to everyone who supported our fundraising efforts, and for the opportunity to give back to this community.

Every step taken, every dollar raised, and every conversation sparked serves as a catalyst for change, generating a ripple effect that carries the potential to one day eliminate the need for shelters. Together, we are actively shaping the future and making a difference.

Photos provided Various stages of the 2023 Charity Challenge to Ecuador, with Cotopaxi Volcano in the background.

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PAGE 6

January/February 2024

Joy to the world

BY Kathleen Glynn-Morris

T

he first Friday in December saw a spectacular event at Caulfeild Cove Hall in St. Francis-in-the-Wood Church, one I wish everyone could have attended. The sold-out evening started in the hall with a pop-up choir practice. Then it moved into the church sanctuary.

But it actually started long before Caulfeild Hall – in the remarkably talented brain of Karen Lee Morlang, the music director at St. Francis.

Karen brought joy to our world by bringing in some well-loved performers: Steve Maddock (vocals & theatre), Nick Apivor (percussion), gifted 14-year-old Valery Lou

(violin & piano), and Michael Berton (bassoon & voice). Adding to the occasion was the local Coast Mountain Men’s Chorus as well as the choir of St. Francis-in-the-Wood.

With tapers lit in the windows it was beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and a special mood ensued. With “Christmas Time is Here” (Charlie Brown) and Elvis’ “Blue Christmas” there was the acknowledgement that Christmas time is not always easy. We often have tough expectations for ourselves and others and crave the peace of a “Silent Night.” But belting out “Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!” we were on a high. This is what the season is about. Our joys, our dreams and hopes, peace and our communities, but most of all the light of love. May it fill your coming year.

Karen conducting the Coast Mountain Men’s Chorus, and the St. Francis choir.

BRIAN POMFRET

Photo: C. Stringer

JOE GARDENER

Pre-spring gardening tips It’s winter. Be prepared. Our gardens can look either dank and dull during this season or they can be covered in just fallen snow. While we wait for spring, there are some things to do.

• Clear your lawn of leaves and other debris and give it a good hard rake to remove bits of moss.

• January is a good time to prune ornamental and fruit trees.

Spray them with dormant oil and lime sulphur. The nursery can advise you on application. Don’t touch the birch trees now because they bleed. Wait for mid year.

• In February, shear off the sword ferns before the ‘fiddle-

heads’ get too lengthy. They’re gorgeous in late spring without last year’s fronds lying about.

Fast-dissolving Dolopril raises the pH sweetness to deter moss.

• Order seeds for flowers and vegetables. Locally, westcoastseeds.com has a grand selection.

• Plant your lily bulbs now, if the soil is not frozen, for a lovely display in late spring.

• If you have an evergreen magnolia (with big floppy leaves), their branches are tender and will break off under snow load.

• Did you order bare root roses earlier in the fall? Plant them now, if the weather and soil conditions are mild enough.

• If you haven’t tended to your densely branched hydrangea, take out 20% of the older branches to give it a more ‘flowthru’ look. Also give it a nice mulch of composted manure.

Favourite plant this season: Hamamelis mollis, the Chinese Witch hazel. It should be blooming now. I like the cultivar ‘Diane’ – it is maroon with a yellow centre.

• In late February, lime your lawn with the pelletized lime.

Enjoy!

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January/February 2024

PAGE 7

Celebrating seniors with a Christmas lunch

BY Chris Loat

O

n December 9, the Rotary Club of West Vancouver Sunrise hosted its 34th annual Seniors’ Christmas Lunch for 100 seniors and community leaders. The festive event, held at the West Vancouver Seniors’ Centre, provides Christmas cheer for many who may otherwise be alone at this time of the year. It is also a lot of fun for the Rotarians and Interactors (high school Rotarians) who are involved.

Rotary Club President, Gabe Korajian, welcomed the guests and table hosts, as well as member of parliament Patrick Weiler, Mayor Mark Sager and his wife, Kathy, West Vancouver councillors, Chief of Police John Lo, and two of Rotary’s good friends – past MLA Ralph Sultan and Chris Stringer, a founding Rotary Club member and publisher extraordinaire.

Seniors’ centre chefs Leigh and Gareth

Tania Ryan setting up another photo.

prepared a delicious three-course meal with all the trimmings, which was served by Rotarian Sam Chan and his team. Rev. Dr. Simon LeSieur, Lead Minister of West Vancouver United Church, and his daughter Evangeline, offered Christmas grace and blessings.

Each guest received a ticket with prizes organized by Rotarian Karen Harrison. Many thanks to Lugaro Jewellers, Spirit Gallery, Marilyn’s boutique, and Caulfeild Pharmasave.

The success of the mayor’s cruise was acknowledged. The event raised money for Rotary youth programs in our community.

Interestingly, it was during last year’s Christmas lunch for seniors that Chris Stringer first challenged the mayor to a fundraising cruise for youth.

After the meal, Marny and John Peirson, who started The Londoners singing group, led carol singing. Everyone was gifted a beautiful poinsettia, provided at reasonable cost by Home Depot. Rockridge Secondary School Interactors, mentored by Rotarian Ar-

Photo provided

dath Paxton Mann, created Christmas cards with many distinctive designs.

Thanks are due to many, including seniors’ centre managers, Davida Witala and Mary-Ann DeVries, and their staff, as well as the West Vancouver Foundation who covered half the cost of the food through their Feed the Need program.

The Rev. Dr. Simon LeSieur and daughter, Evangeline.

Mark Sager with Charter Rotarian Chris Stringer.

Photos provided

Roland Haller, Christina Sultan, Sam Chan, Mark Ferrari.

Photo provided

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January/February 2024

ROSE LEPIN

S

Birth of The Beacon: Reflecting on our 10

tarted as a simple dream of a community “good news newspaper,” materialized by a team of near-strangers, and run by a consistently devoted team for a decade, The Beacon is a labour of love, and vessel of passion and joy for many.

My personal journey with The Beacon began in 2018, when I was 13 years old, upon running into editor Lindy Pfeil (who had run “circles” in my former elementary school) at Safeway in Caulfeild Village. At the time, she just happened to be on the hunt for coverage of the West Vancouver District Honour Choirs. Not only was the choirs’ spring concert that very evening,

Publisher and editor with all 58 Beacons.

but I, a member, was on my own pursuit for writing opportunities beyond my then-role as the assistant editor of the Rockridge Post.

Following my first story on the Honour Choirs, I contributed consistently over the next few years, mostly covering topics to do with schools. In 2021, my grade 11 year, my interview with Deputy Fire Chief, Gord Howard, broke me out of the “Schools” section, and so began “Talkative Teen.”

The opportunities I have received thanks to The Beacon have truly shaped me and my life path. The love I found for storytelling through this paper inspired me to go into the Media Studies at UBC; my acceptance

Photo provided

was certainly due, in part, to Chris and Lindy’s support and thoughtful letters of recommendation.

Just as The Beacon has inspired my dreams, it was once a dream itself.

In the early 2010s, Chris Stringer, a longtime Caulfeild resident and member of St. Francis-in-the-Wood Church, saw an opportunity to build connection within the Caulfeild community. A local paper would provide a platform for neighbours to read about neighbours and be exposed to diverse stories. It could also illuminate local businesses and community events and celebrate the natural beauty of West Vancouver. A community publication would also be a bonus for St. Francis-in-the-Wood, as events in their community hall would have a place to be promoted.

From the start, Chris had a willing collaborator in realtor Penny Mitchell, who took on the essential role of finding advertisers to pay for printing costs. Without advertising, there would be no newspaper.

Once set on the idea, Chris sought out advice from newspaper experts. A tip he received from all consulted was to find an editor. This task didn’t faze him. He had connections with dozens of parents from

children’s programs that took place in the church hall.

One of these was a ballet class run by Lindy Pfeil. When approached by Chris about potential writer-mothers of her ballerinas, Lindy revealed that she had taught English Literature at university years earlier and had penned a book herself. Gone was the need to keep searching. Together, Chris and Lindy, publisher and editor-in-chief, got to work.

“Chris and I met for coffee with someone who had tried to start a Caulfeild newspaper before,” Lindy explains. His attempt had been unsuccessful. “He told us all the reasons why it wouldn’t work. We listened politely, took some notes, and thanked him for his time.” As they walked through the Caulfeild Village parking lot, they agreed, “We’re going to do it anyway.”

Chris knew that the paper would be legitimized by including columns from respected authors in the community. He was delighted when Elspeth Bradbury agreed to write a column called “Mountains to Sea,” focusing on the natural beauty of the area.

And when Francis Mansbridge joined the team with his “Caulfeild History” column, The Beacon had its writers of repute.

Chris and Lindy’s first venture as a team

Francis Mansbridge, Elspeth Bradbury and Chris Stringer reading the 1st edition.

Photo provided

January/February 2024

PAGE 9

TALKATIVE TEEN

10th anniversary was to find someone with experience in newspapers, to educate them on the howtos of newspaper publishing. They found this in former Vancouver Sun editor, Paul Musgrove.

Paul established the layout and design of the newspaper (yet to be named) and remained with the publication for its first two editions. While his time with the paper was brief, Lindy and Chris agree that it would not have gotten off the ground without him.

The first edition of The New Caulfield Newspaper was published in September 2013. Sitting at eight pages –half the size of a modern Beacon – it included a piece from Lindy about her newly empty nest, and Chris’s first “Community Personality” column, among others.

It also included a contest to name the publication. A panel consisting of the newspaper team, Village merchants and advisors, selected The Beacon from more than 100 entries. And Point Atkinson Lighthouse, located in Lighthouse Park, became the inspiration for the logo.

Dawn Robinson, a talented ex layout designer of the Rockridge school newspaper, stepped up to continue where Musgrove left off by creating the Beacon masthead and designing the newspaper for the next few editions. Once Dawn left, Melissa Baker joined the team as Creative Director.

Melissa, a professional graphic designer with over 15 years experience (seven of those in the newspaper industry), was looking to work on a part-time basis while starting her family. Her expertise with ad design, page layouts and prepress knowledge further elevated the professionalism of the Beacon, and she continues to contribute to its success 9 years later.

There were many printing issues during the first two years. Various printers were used, and some editions were so poorly printed that advertisers backed out. After a stretch of shopping around, Chris ultimately found his “forever printer” in East Vancouver.

Over the past decade, The Beacon has grown larger, both in number of pages and scope of readers. The catchment area has grown from Caulfeild to include Eagle Harbour, then Horseshoe Bay, Lions Bay and finally Dundarave. All editions can now be viewed online.

Each edition, Chris collects all 5,000

newspapers from the printer, transports them to Canada Post, where he organises them into bins designated for home delivery in the different distribution areas. They are also stocked at the West Vancouver Memorial Library, and stores in Caulfeild Village.

When asked what she dreams of for the future of The Beacon, Lindy communicated her desire for more young contributors and new perspectives (especially since there will soon be a vacancy for a new, legitimate “talkative teen,” as I turn 20 in the coming year). When asked the same question, instead of expressing what he wishes for the future, Chris thoughtfully reflected on what The Beacon has been for him these past ten years. Specifically, that the publication has discovered a community niche that did not seem to exist. “Beacon readers genuinely seem to want what we provide,” he says. “And our diverse little team, accompanied by devoted regular and occasional writers, have fun creating our paper together, every two months”.

As Lindy told me, “It was never about creating a perfect newspaper. It was about creating community.”

I look forward to what is in store for the next ten years of The Beacon. Thank you to our readers for making these ten wonderful years possible.

The interview - Lindy, Chris, Rose.

10 th anniversary cake

by Melissa.

Photo: courtesy of Adrienne Stringer

PAGE 10

January/February 2024

Local Voices: Natural History 2024

BY Laura Anderson

Inlet, exploring traces of flumes and shinglebolts, giant stumps, and visiting the few big trees that have survived. ocal Voices, the popular community On Wednesday, April 8, Holiday 1909 conversations series from West returns us to the Seymour River waterVancouver Historical Soshed. In 1909, four climbers set ciety, returns in spring 2024 off for the river’s headwaters, with Natural History. packing cameras, food, The theme of natupainting and mapping ral history had two equipment, a rifle and primary inspira… a pie. Lid Hawkins tions. The first was has transformed Marine Archeology her grandfather’s of West Vancouver, journal, his quirky presented in 2023 cartoons and versat Local Voices: Loes, and dozens of cal History. Chris breathtaking photoAmer described the graphs into a book, pre-contact environand a visual record of ment from his perspecthis grand adventure. tive as an underwater arThe third conversation, cheologist. The other is the On Wednesday, May 10, is re-development of the BC with West Vancouver StreamLarry Marshik exploring on the North Shore.

Ferry terminal at Horseshoe keepers, who monitor salmon Bay, and the potential consemigration in our community’s quences to local environmental features and creeks. Mike Perley will enlarge on this brief archeological sites. description on behalf of the fish and their While Local Voices: Natural History 2024 habitat, including the very popular annual features four very different presentations, Adopt-A-Fish event in partnership with each is connected to the others, often in West Vancouver Memorial Library. multiple ways.

The final presentation in the series –The The first presentation takes place on Maritime History of Howe Sound by Eric AnWednesday, March 12, when Larry Marshik dersen, and the designation of Howe Sound explores the story of logging in North Van- as a UNESCO Biosphere Region – will be couver’s Seymour River watershed in Van- on Wednesday, June 12. Every place has its ishing Skid Roads: Visible remnants of log- stories. The Sound’s history comprises many ging 1885 – 1915, above Lynn Valley. Larry, chapters: Indigenous use; resource indusa retired BC and Canada land surveyor, has tries; transportation routes. This converlived on the North Shore since 1989. He has sation will also provide a glimpse into the charted the routes of a cut log’s journey from future, with the multiple individuals and orthe mountain tops to the mills at Burrard ganizations committed to protection of the

L

area as a UNESCO Biosphere Region.

West Vancouver Historical Society appreciates the partnership with West Vancouver Memorial Library in producing the Local Voices community conversation series.

As presenter Chris Amer said in 2023, “Perhaps our lot as West Vancouverites is to respect and commemorate diverse backgrounds and stories to enhance and encourage the preservation of the past.”

We thank each and every person and organization that has participated in the series since it launched in 2019. All the talks are available on the society’s YouTube channel @westvancouverhistoricalsoc7302.

The hikers at Cathedral Peak, another photo in Lid Hawkins’ book Holiday 1909.

The miners Lid Hawkins’ grandpa encountered on July 27, 1909.

A collage depicting the maritime history of Howe Sound.

Photos provided

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January/February 2024

PAGE 11

The Witness Blanket: A national monument comes to WV

T

he West Vancouver Memorial Library is hosting the Witness Blanket in its Main Hall from January 26 to March 10, 2024.

Inspired by a woven blanket, the Witness Blanket is a powerful art installation. It’s made up of over 800 items from sites and Survivors of residential schools across the country. Each item tells a story of loss, strength, resilience, and pride. More than 130 residential schools operated across Canada and were a deliberate attempt to destroy Indigenous communities, part of a broader process of colonization and genocide. The Witness Blanket stands as a national monument to recognize these atrocities.

The artist, Carey Newman / Hayalthkin’geme (Ha-Yalth-Kin-Geme), is of Kwagiulth, Salish, and British descent. These cultural traditions and worldviews inform his

artwork. His father’s residential school experience inspired him to create the Witness Blanket.

“My role as an artist is to bear witness,” Newman says. “The pieces themselves are witnesses. The people giving us the pieces are witnesses, and, at some level, we are all

The Witness Blanket.

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– or we all should be – witnesses.”

In 2013 and 2014, a team travelled nationwide to collect pieces of residential school history, resulting in the collection of 887 donated and reclaimed items. Then, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights exhibited the original Witness Blanket in 2015-2016. Now, two cedar-framed reproductions tour communities across Canada, and the next stop is West Vancouver. In the replicas, direct-printed wood panels take the place of the original artifacts.

Hosting this exhibition is possible thanks to the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and the West Vancouver Memorial Library Foundation.

Visit the library during regular hours to explore the exhibition and bear witness. As part of the exhibition, the library is presenting a number of art, music, literary, and tech programs for adults and kids alike. Learn more at wvml.ca/witness.

Photos: courtesy of the West Vancouver Memorial Library

YES - WE ARE BACK!

PUB QUIZ NIGHT SATURDAY JANUARY 27TH AT 6:30PM THINK YOU KNOW IT ALL? COME AND PROVE IT! Make up a team or just come and join one. It’s a fun evening.

HORSESHOE BAY LICENSED DAYCARE Monday to Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm 778-985-4595 coraearlylearning@gmail.com 6388 Argyle Ave., West Vancouver

DINNER INCLUDED: ‘BANGERS’ WITH ONION GRAVY Dinner is gluten-free with vegetarian option too.

Beer, wine and soft drinks available.

PRIZE FOR THE WINNING TEAM TICKETS! $35 @ CAULFEILDCOVEHALL.CA LOCATION: 4773 Piccadilly Road South

PAGE 12

January/February 2024

JINI PARK

COMMUNITY KIDS

West Van students win top robotics awards

E

arly on Saturday, November 25, there was great excitement outside the South Campus Gym of West Vancouver Secondary. Parents were giving last minute encouragement; students were chatting eagerly about their game strategies with their teammates; volunteers were busy making necessary announcements. The VEX IQ Robotics competition for students ages 10 to 13, was about to begin.

When the front door opened, a flood of contestants rushed over to their designated area to prepare for the competition. Forty teams from across the lower mainland immersed themselves in the magic of robotics.

The intense day of competition involved technical inspection such as robot size regulation, presentation of engineering notebooks, and performance skills runs. A series of qualifying and elimination rounds continued until winners were determined and an-

nounced at the award ceremony.

Three of our own West Vancouver students won the top three awards. Emaryllia (Ema) from Caulfeild Elementary won the Robotics Design Award. Dominique and Eva from Pauline Johnson Elementary won the title, performance skill, and Excellence Award.

All three qualified for the provincial finals in February 2024.

This engaging robotic program for young minds ignites curiosity, fosters problem-solving skills, cultivates a passion for exploration and teaches the power of teamwork. The program is offered in 36 countries.

Ten Ton Robotics is offered by West Vancouver School District, which started in 2015 with just 11 high school students. Today, the district robotics program has around 280 students, with the youngest in grade 3.

Observing the creativity of those young competitors was captivating. The robotics

program enables students to express their ideas, empowering them for the future.

More information about West Vancouver School District’s robotics program can be found at westvancouverschools.ca.

Please contact Jini at communitykids tbwv@ gmail.com if you have an exciting event(s) kids can enjoy with their parents, grandparents and guardians.

Award winners Ema, Dominique and Eva, at the VEX IQ Robotics Competition.

Photo: Jini Park

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Rarely available, one of the largest units in award-winning Caulfeild Cove. Beautiful 2,400+ sq.ft. 3-level townhome, 4 bed, 3 bath with vaulted ceilings, bright loft & tons of outdoor space. Reno’d kitchen with SS appls, gas stove, engd walnut flooring, interior paint, lighting, plus recent roof & exterior paint. West facing front patio w/ garden bed, storage area & forest views. East facing backyard patio looks into award-winning gardens. 2 balconies connect to the 3 bedrooms & have floor to ceiling sliding glass doors for seamless indoor/ outdoor living. Loft or 4th bedroom occupies the private 3rd floor. Detached carport easily fits 2 vehicles and is EV charger compatible! Incredible location walking trails at your doorstep to Lighthouse Park, Tiddly Cove, Caulfeild Village and the ocean.

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Caulfeild Veterinary Hospital .. 604.922.2344 Firststep Financial .................. 604.618.0131 Fisherman’s Market ............... 604.281.2000 Forecast Coffee ............................ 604.281.0167 Iris Optometrists & Opticians ... 604.923.4747

J Gregory Men’s Apparel ...... 604.921.2646 Marilyn’s Boutique ................. 604.925.4110 Mega Sushi ................................. 604.281.0200 Pharmasave ............................... 604.926.5331 Post Office ................................ 1.800.267.1177

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Safeway ....................................... 604.926.2550 Starbucks .................................... 604.926.2550 Subway ......................................... 604.922.7501 Valetor Cleaners ...................... 604.925.3900 Village Pet Food ....................... 604.925.3334 Windsor Meats Co ................... 604.926.6168

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PAGE 14

January/February 2024

The Penny Mitchell Group S

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Penny & Stephanie Mitchell 604-816-7825 • 604-812-7158 • www.pennymitchell.com Penny@thepennymitchellgroup.com • Stephanie@thepennymitchellgroup.com

January/February 2024

PAGE 15

KIM TAYLOR Real Estate Group

InIn the felt that thatI’m I’mnot notjust justselling sellingaahome, home,I’m I’mselling sellingaalifestyle. lifestyle.When WhenI move I movesomeone someoneinto into the1314years yearsthat thatI’ve I’vehelped helpedmy myclients clients buy buy and and sell sell homes homes here, here, I’ve always felt aa new home, thethe process doesn’t end with meme handing them thethe keys; I’mI’m involved in connecting them with their new community - my community.

I was fortunate to grow new home, process doesn’t end with handing them keys; involved in connecting them with their new community - my community.

I was fortunate to up in Eagle Harbour and my in Horseshoe Bay. Our learnlearn in the classrooms thatthat we did at Gleneagles it doesn’t get more localSince than grow up in Eagle Harbour andhusband, my husband, in Horseshoe Bay. son Ourand son daughter and daughter insame the same classrooms we did - it doesn’t-get more local than that. that.

Since childhood I’ve been familiar with the trails, parks and beaches that my family enjoys today.

I feel very fortunate to have fashioned a successful career doing childhood I’ve been familiar with the trails, parks and beaches that my family enjoys today. I feel very fortunate to have fashioned a successful career doing what I love to what I love to do in this beautiful area I call home and I would love to help your family buy or sell the West Coast dream... because I believe it is.

do in this beautiful area I call home and I would love to help your family buy or sell the West Coast dream... because I believe it is.

SOLD

SOLD

195 ISLEVIEW PLACEWAY 290 KELVIN GROVE LIONSBAY BAY LIONS

$2,189,000 $2.688M

Tastefully updated and meticulously maintained 4 bdrm / 3

5707 DRIVE 6239 BLUEBELL WELLINGTON AVE EAGLE HARBOUR HORSESHOE BAY

$2,450,000 $3.95M

6182-NELSON AVENUE 509 6707 NELSON AVE GLENEAGLES HORSESHOE BAY

$3,125,000 $1.29M

This beautifully renovated 7 bdrm / 5 bthrm / 5,528 SF Kelvin bthrm / 2739 SF family home perched on its own private oasis Grove home boasts incredible panoramic views on all 3 levels. with stunning ocean andfornature views.

Incredible setting with Hidden below the street maximum privacy, this home beautiful planti ngs, soothing and private old reveals itsperennial magnificence the moment you creek step inside.

3 bdrms up; an impressive main floor a 1000+ TWOfloor growth forest next door.

Thiswith home offersSFansundeck; ideal open spacious suites. up Lotsand of updates, a detached plan with2 3bdrm bedrooms a rec room with 4thgarage bedroom and a separate studio.

Move in ready 5 bdrm / 4 bthrm / 3071 SF family home at the Experience luxury coastal living in this completely renovated 3 end quiet cul-de-sac with marina and garden views. Idebdrmof/ 4a bthrm / 2467 SF home.

This architectural masterpiece al floorbrplan on 3 levels - main oor boasts beauti ful vaulted boasts eathtaking ocean viewsflfrom every room.

Every detail has been hardwood well thought out, from the vaulted thefamily ceilings, floors, updated kitchenceilings off theto cozy floor-to-ceiling and skylights floodbdrms the home room and two oriel backwindows decks. Upstairs offersthat 3 large and w/ natural light. distance to Garrow Bay, school, local downstairs you’llWalking find 2 more bdrms and a large rec room with shops, restaurants & transit. garden access (easily suitable).

Horseshoe Bay Sanctuary by Westbank is a vibrant waterfront SF home inframed Gleneagles offers community by nature.

Thispanoramic brand new 2ocean, bdrm / 1island, bthrm and views.

Enjoy abundant sunshine, stunning sunsets, /mountain 941 SF suite boasts 500 SF of outdoor space & ocean views.

Features include 10” ceilings, travertine stone fireplace, Miele and serene tranquility on this private west-facing 14,375 SF appliances, granitelot. slabWalk countertops & wide plank floors.

Steps to semi-waterfront to Gleneagles School, Rec Center, unique shops & restaurants.

Complete with private and Golf Course.

New public staircase acrossboathouse the street& afor 26ft Chris Craft boat for your leisure.

SOLD SOLD

SOLD SOLD

SOLD SOLD

down. Walk to beach, trails, store, café and school.

6225BAYVIEW ST. GEORGES PLACE 325 PLACE GLENEAGLES LIONS BAY

$3,575,000 $1.68M

This 5 bdrm / 5 bthrm / 4510 SF residence offers breathtaking

Inhabit the essence of majestic Lions Bay in this one-of-a-kind ocean and island views. Designed by “Ron Thom” and later 4 bedroom home surrounded by unparalleled ocean and nature renovated by entertaining Arthur Erickson, incredible piece histoviews.

Imagine friendsthis and family on your largeofviewing ry is or nestled at the endA warm of a quiet cul-de-sac deck flat, grassy yard. community awaitson youa- sprawling just a17,000 short walk tooverlooking three beautiful trails, community SF lot thebeaches, gardens, stunning viewshall, and the general store, caféwith and pre and primary school (in West Vancouver sun-filled decks outdoor pool and cabana. school catchment).

10 308 E 14TH STREET 510– BAYVIEW ROAD

$1,299,000 $1.899M

CENTRAL LIONS BAY LONSDALE Move right in to this elegant 3 bdrm / 3 bthrm / 1366 SF upThis impressive 6 bdrm / 4 bthrm / 3725 SF West Coast residence per-level townhouse in the desirable Avondale complex. Feais perched on a spectacular 14,228 SF lot with sweeping SW turing and newfeatures hardwood floors bdrms, throughout, views of9-foot Howe ceilings Sound. Upstairs 3 spacious main a cozy area and an impressive newwith kitchen flowing level living/dining boasts an open kitchen/dining/living room incredible vaulted largeand picture windows sliders to anUpstairs expansive into theceilings, family room opening to a&sunny deck. feaentertaining deck and offers great suite tures 3 bedrooms andlower officelevel nook.

Prime locati onpotential. near schools, Complete with garage & carport. shopping, eateries and recreation.

KIMTAYLORHOMES.COM | KIM@KIMTAYLORHOMES.COM | 604.315.2645 INDEPENDENT ADVISOR OF RENNIE AND ASSOCIATES REALTY LTD. THIS COMMUNICATION IS NOT INTENDED TO CAUSE OR INDUCE A BREACH OF AN EXISTING AGREEMENT(S). E.& O.E

This charming mid-century 3 bdrm + office / 1 bthrm / 1850

waterfront access to Garrow Bay.

2118EGREYLYNN CRESCENT 623 KINGS ROAD WESTLYNN NORTH VANCOUVER

$1,849,000 $1.935M

This charming 5 bdrm / 2 bthrm / 2,352 SF home sits on a quiet,

First time ever on the market, this home was lovingly built by family friendly street in still desirable Thetoday. large sun-fi its owners in 1969, who resideWestlynn. in the house This 4lled living /room with/ cozy fireplace leads out toon a sun drenched bdrm 3 bthrm 2833 gas SF residence is situated a private treed lot and set back from athe street backyard at the endwith of a flat, balcony looksfaronto private lush treed quiet Wellentrance maintained of updates in this views.cul-de-sac.

The separate andand levellots backyard allows lots of beautiful Enjoy the peace and distance tranquillity of yourschools, very room for home. a growing family.

Walking to parks, own slice of nature.

shops, and trails.

PAGE 16

January/February 2024

Franco’s network in our preferred area allowed him to identify our dream home “ before it was officially listed and our offer was accepted on listing day. At the same time during the process of selling our existing home it is an understatement to say Franco went way above and beyond to counsel and provide a balanced perspective when needed. We are truly grateful and it is a real pleasure to recommend Franco.

”

Keith & Julia Hazell

“I give you my personal assurance that when it comes to the business of your present or future home, open houses, or private showings you will never deal with an assistant or third party associate. In short, I will always be there to help you with the details and decisions that are so critical to the purchase and sale of your home.” - Franco

604.842.2668 franco@francodiligenti.com francodiligenti.com Macdonald Realty Ltd. This communication is not intended to cause or induce breach of an existing agency agreement.