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ADo you have a story?
lmost every morning, I lace up my purple Salomons and head towards the Salish Sea. Anyone who knew me for the first 50 years of my life, would likely not believe this, because I always prided myself on not being a walker. I could not understand why anyone would choose to walk anywhere.
But in 2015, at age 51, I heard about the Camino de Santiago, a 700 km pilgrimage in northern Spain. Ever since reading The Canterbury Tales in high school, I’d wanted to be a pilgrim. (Somehow, I never put two and two together: that pilgrims, well, walk.) So I bought my first pair of walking shoes and set off for Spain.
I wouldn’t call it fun, exactly: three weeks of stomping on sacred soil – me and Petunia, my purple backpack. But something happened along the way. Well, many somethings happened along the way, but perhaps the most surprising (except for sharing bathrooms and bunkbeds with strangers and nearly dying on a mountain) was that I became a walker.
Today, nine years after watching the sun set at Finisterre –the ends of the earth –I still walk. Because I can. My daily stomp between Eagle Harbour and Horseshoe Bay provides glimmers of wonder. Gratitude. As long as I can put one foot in front of the other, there is hope. And joy. And possibility.
What do you do that brings you joy? Do you walk our beautiful trails? Swim, cycle, ski? Do you have a book club or group activity
that lights you up? Perhaps you play a sport or volunteer? Or is coffee and pastry with friends your way to connect and de-stress?
We want to hear your story. It can be inspirational, funny, embarrassing, weird… whatever floats your boat. West Vancouver Stories: The Wellness Edition kicks off in November at West Vancouver Memorial Library. There will be three in-person writing sessions, on Tuesday, November 12, 19 and 26 from 6-7:30pm in the Welsh Hall.
And don’t worry! You don’t need to be a published writer to participate. All are welcome! There will be inspiring writing tips and prompts to develop your unique writer’s voice and bring your stories to life.
Should you wish, your story will be professionally edited and included in the anthology. Each participant will receive a copy. Both previous anthologies –West Vancouver Stories: The Pandemic Project and West Vancouver Stories: 2024 –became Amazon bestsellers. They are available on Amazon and at all North Shore libraries.
Funding is provided by the West Vancouver Foundation, through the Neighbourhood Small Grant program, so there is no cost to participate. However, numbers are limited, so registration is required. For more information, and to register, go to westvanstories.com.
LINDY PFEIL OPINION
Photo: L. Pfeil
From L to R: Trish Leslie, Brenda Morrison, Inga McLaughlin and Kim Clarke, four of the writers in the second West Vancouver Stories anthology, the 2024 edition.
BTALKATIVE TWENTY-SOMETHING
Sam Lynch: WVML’s first Sound Artist in Residence
C-raised indie artist Sam Lynch, Breakout West’s 2022 Songwriter of the Year, is the West Vancouver Memorial Library’s first artist in residence. Utilizing the library’s recently erected sound recording facilities (a facility made for general usage and funded by an endowment from the personal estate of Robert Leslie Welsh), the role of the library’s Sound Artist in Residence is to facilitate cost-free music and recording programming, while simultaneously using the space to work on their own professional ventures. This inaugural residency began in September and concludes on November 14 with an industry panel at the library.
Sam describes the first workshop, held in
Technology has had an enormous impact on our lives. Our lifestyle, medical system, businesses and behaviours continue to be shaped by it. Most of us, for example, cannot live without our cell phones. While we recognize that going tech-free is a healthier choice, this seems impossible in the 21st century. So, what should we do?
Finding a balance between technology and real life is key. Technology is a valuable tool, but it is crucial to use it conscientiously.
September, as a “get-to-know-me” session.
“I wasn’t really sure what to expect in terms of who might be interested and who might show up. The variety of perspective, immediately, was very clear to me.”
Fundamental as the session was, Sam was enthused to meet the diverse crowd who congregated to learn.
October workshops included songwriting, recording, and sound mixing.
Missed it? Fear not! While the inaugural residency concludes this month, this is intended to be the first of a series. In the meantime, Sam emphasizes that the library’s sound recording equipment is open for everyone to use. Information on how to access the equipment (including a user ori-
entation) can be found at westvanlibrary. ca. Additionally, workshop attend ees and fans of Sam Lynch can soon stream her second studio album, Outline, which will be released November 15.
Rose Lepin is in her third year of Bachelor of Media Studies at UBC. When not studying, she can be found reading, walking, and singing in the UBC varsity a cappella group, Eh? Cappella.
Yellow Pages Limited is an iconic Canadian digital media and marketing solutions company that has been an essential tool for business directories since 1908. It has supported the economy by connecting and promoting relationships between customers and businesses. It has evolved to satisfy our fast-changing technology-based society. Many people nowadays use online systems to access directories. However, the Yellow Pages is still published and distributed in the traditional phone book format.
Yellow Pages launched its nationwide art competition called “Our Cover, Your Canvas” to celebrate its relationship with Canadian communities. The competition fosters the relationship between technology and real life. It also encourages us to support our local communities by communicating through art. This competition is a fun project for children and their parents, grandparents, siblings and friends.
The initial entry period for competition submissions closed on September 30, but
the secondary entry period closes on April 30, 2025. The winning artworks will be featured on the front cover of Yellow Pages and artist bios will be printed inside the directory. The theme of the competition is “Discover, Shop & Support in Your Local Community.” While going completely tech-free is likely impossible, we don’t need to abandon the traditional way of doing things. Visit www.ypsolutions.ca/submissions for more information.
ROSE LEPIN
Photo: courtesy of WVML and Sam Lynch Sam Lynch in action.
JINI PARK COMMUNITY KIDS
A century of connection at St. Anthony’s
BY Christine Oberti
For the past 100 years, St. Anthony’s Parish has been the place parishioners turn to for connection and community. Visitors and regulars often comment on the close-knit sense of family they feel within minutes of walking through the doors.
Longtime West Vancouver resident Lorna Dalinghaus calls the people of St. Anthony’s her “second family.” Lorna became a parishioner in 1963 after moving from Winnipeg with her husband and young children. She became involved with the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) and over the years has served in numerous volunteer roles, in addition to working for a time as the parish secretary. She credits this involvement for her connection with the parish family and six decades’ worth of friendships.
Similar sentiments are held by Pat Battensby, St. Anthony’s parishioner since 1971, and fellow long-time volunteer and CWL member. “St. Anthony’s has a very special feel to it. Our church family is small enough that we really know each other, and we share a great camaraderie and togetherness.”
This is the beauty of St. Anthony’s Parish, which celebrated its one hundredth birthday in June of this year. The centennial events welcomed current and former parishioners, neighbours and friends, Vancouver Archbishop J. Michael Miller, former pastor Bishop Gary Franken, now Bishop of St. Paul, Alberta, former pastor Rev. Vincent Hawkswell, and newly appointed pastor, Rev. Arsène Dutunge. The two days of festivities included a well-attended Centennial Mass, the blessing of a new St. Anthony statue outside the church, and a seaside-themed dinner at St. Anthony’s School featuring musical entertainment and inspi-
rational speeches provided by St. Anthony’s youth.
At the Centennial Mass, Archbishop Miller encouraged parishioners to be filled with thanksgiving when recalling the parish’s history, and remembering those who, over the past century, built up and nourished the faith-filled and welcoming spirit of St. Anthony’s. He noted, “More than an exercise in nostalgia, this centennial celebration looks to the past in order to learn what inspired” the parish founders, as well as to lead St. Anthony’s parishioners “to live the present moment with renewed enthusiasm and hope.”
The parish was constituted in the Archdiocese of Vancouver in 1924, shortly after the original church was built at the confluence of Inglewood and Haywood Avenues in Dundarave. Prior to that time, masses had been celebrated in various homes and other locations in Ambleside and Dundarave, in-
cluding at the Clachan Hotel, which is now the Beach House Restaurant. The current church building was completed in 1951.
Photo: courtesy of Nick Elbers
Archbishop Miller with parishioners Pat Battensby and Emma Fiedler with the birthday cake modelled after St. Anthony’s church.
Parishioners celebrating St. Anthony’s Centennial feast day.
Photo provided
St. Anthony’s Church in 1924. Photo: courtesy West Vancouver
wx wú7mesh Sníchim Language Kits launch at the library
BY Sarah Barton-Bridges
Like many Indigenous languages, Skw xwú7mesh Sníchim, the language of the Skw xwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), was nearly lost due to colonial policies. Today, there are 12 fluent speakers, and more than 200 learners.
As part of its commitment to reconciliation and in an effort to support language preservation, the West Vancouver Memorial Library has part nered with Skw xwú7mesh Sníchim speaker and knowledge keeper Tsitsáyxemaat Rebecca Duncan to develop the Skw’shítsut/ Skw’shétsut - Skw xwú7mesh Sníchim Language Kits.
Each kit includes:
Stl’ashn Skw’shítsut (Potlatch Game), developed in collaboration with NDNPlayers, is a cooperative game that teaches the idea of a shared economy.
“I love this project because I fully support our Squamish language and culture,” says Tsitsáy xemaat, explaining that the kits are “more than just educational resources— they are a crucial part of our collective effort to revive and sustain the Skw xwú7mesh Sníchim language for future generations. Our children need to grow up learning and hearing this language and have it be a normal part of their lives. These kits are more than just learning tools—they’re vital to reconnecting our people with their identity.”
Anyone can borrow one of five Skwxwú7mesh Sníchim Language Kits, funded by the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, for up to three weeks.
• The Skw xwú7mesh Sníchim Xwelíten Skexwts (Squamish-English Dictionary), accompanied by a QR code that links to the new Talking Dictionary for an enhanced, interactive learning experience.
• A Yoto Mini player with audio recordings by Tsitsáy xemaat and Chámiỳa Janis Campbell, captured in WVML’s state-ofthe-art recording studio, to practise the
Continued from page 4
From its humble beginnings to the present day, St. Anthony’s has been a parish rich in faith, but also in outreach and charity – and, like any family, in traditions, celebrations and social events, too. Highlights from recent decades include the founding (by Battensby and other CWL members) of Domestic Abuse Services, preparing meals
correct pronunciation.
• Carved alphabet and number blocks for playful interactive learning.
• The Kw’ákw’iỳek (Opposites) flashcards
• The Slhánaỳ Skwálwen (Squamish Nation Foraging Walks) guide connects language learning with land-based teachings.
• The S7ukw’ukw’íńexw, Tsékwtsekw, iy Stl’álkem: Animals, Insects, and Supernatural Beings flashcards introduce common animals and culturally significant beings.
for the Catholic Charities Men’s Shelter and the Door is Open, fundraising for North Shore Neighbourhood House and Luke 15 House, hosting community lunches and pot-luck celebrations, visiting the elderly at care homes, putting on faith studies, youth events, holding the annual Parish Picnic, Pet Blessing, Christmas Eve Pageant, and Boxing Day Skate, and, last but not least, the after-mass socials on Sunday mornings.
WVML Board Chair, Tracy Wachmann, says: “We are so grateful for Tsitsáyxemaat’s willingness to share her knowledge of and passion for the Skw xwú7mesh language. For the library, this has been an incredibly meaningful collaboration. Supporting language preservation and recognizing the cultural importance of language is one of the library’s responses to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.”
All this and more foster the community feeling at St. Anthony’s which cuts across the generations. Tyler Yupangco, a young parishioner and first year biomedical physiology student at SFU, shared these thoughts with the centennial dinner guests: “It is my hope that we continue to grow this community, having more youth involved in the different ministries. We are the hope for St. Anthony’s future.” He continued: “We
are what will keep the legacy alive and running. Together, let’s continue to nurture our parish, ensuring it thrives for another 100 years!”
St. Anthony’s parishioners look forward to continuing the joyful work of welcoming newcomers, encouraging youth, and helping those in need as the parish embarks upon its second century.
Photo provided Tsitsáyxemaat Rebecca Duncan with one of the language kits.
Items in the new Skwxwú7mesh Sníchim Language kits.
Al Crittenden: Celebrating 100 years
BY Tara Crittenden
The year 1924 had many noteworthy headlines: Ford Motor Company manufactured its ten millionth vehicle; Marlon Brando, Jimmy Carter, and James Baldwin were born; the Royal Canadian Air Force was formed; astronaut Edwin Hubble formally announced that other galactic systems existed; the first winter Olympic games were played in Chamonix, France; Chateau
Lake Louise burned down; Prince Edward Islanders started to drive on the right side of their roadways; and, closer to home and our hearts, Albert William Crittenden was born on September 27 in Transcona, Manitoba –a fortuitous and happy occasion as his beloved family members, friends, and former students of Penticton High, West Vancouver Secondary School and Sentinel Secondary School can attest.
When the Facebook Group “I Grew Up in West Vancouver” was updated with news of Mr. Crittenden’s centennial celebration, there was an outpouring of well-wishes, love, and anecdotes starring this beloved educator. The resounding consensus was that as a teacher and vice principal, Mr. Crittenden was a fair, kind, decent, generous, and engaging difference-maker in the lives of those blessed to know him.
His favourite subject to teach was law, but his impact on students often occurred outside the classroom. On the side streets adjacent to West Vancouver Secondary and Sentinel, Mr. Crittenden would intercept students intent
on skipping class with a gentle redirection back to the school grounds. He kindly helped students find their classrooms when failing memories found them curiously departing the schools’ portals before the bell.
He welcomed new students in the office with a friendly disposition and thereafter connected with frequent check-ins. He accompanied students on field trips including one cross-Canada train trek to Montreal with three chaperones, twenty students, and weeks together. Mr. Crittenden also made house calls to chat with parents when circumstances required.
Once, on an Elphinstone field trip, he entrusted a student with his iconic yellow Jeep (yes, times were different then) – an act of faith which had far-reaching effects on the lad years later. And many decades later, he remembers the names, graduation dates, family members, and in some cases family trees of his charges from Penticton High, West Van Secondary, and Sentinel. It would seem that his memory for his students is enviably eidetic.
As one of Mr. Crittenden’s three children, I can add to the outpouring of praise. Dad’s character and integrity were born from his early experiences in Transcona, Manitoba where he watched his father tirelessly work graveyard shifts as a switchman for the Canadian National Railway. As a teenager, “Junior” followed his father to the CNR. He worked as a call boy, traveling door to door on his bicycle rounding up staff members for their shifts during times when phones populated one in three households. Following his work at the CNR, Dad enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force at age 18, training as a navigator (officer class) in World War Two. The war in the European Theatre ended days
prior to Dad’s inaugural combat mission, but he was expected to return to Canada’s west coast for deployment to the Pacific Theatre. Dad arrived in BC as the war officially ended, but his adventures in Canada’s westernmost province were only just beginning.
Al Crittenden fell in love with British Columbia and particularly its glorious waters. In his younger years he traveled the province with a dear friend, portaging and canoeing innumerable lakes. He sailed Vancouver’s inlets mooring his sailboat at Eagle Harbour Yacht Club for an annual fee of roughly $30. Having toured the Okanagan in his early twenties between his university studies, Dad decided to settle in Penticton for his unwavering love of Skaha Lake and Okanagan Lake.
But the waterbody nearest to Dad’s heart was Christina Lake. It was there, with his beautiful wife Verna, that he re-erected a Hollyburn Mountain log cabin on its western, boat-access-only shores. Having purchased
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9
“We’llAgain”Meet
Tribute to the Beloved Entertainers of World War I & II: Dame Vera Lynn, The Andrews Sisters, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman and more! Featuring The Coast Mountain Menʼs Chorus, The Lady Larks and a swinginʼ brass/winds ensemble!
Albert and his banjo in 1936. Photos provided Officer Albert Crittenden, RCAF Navigator.
Photo: courtesy of Susan Goble of Wildflower Photography Al with his banjo, celebrating 100 years.
See page 7
IMore tales from “The Bay”
n a recent “Looking Back” I wrote about the original Horseshoe Bay Store on the corner of Royal and Bruce. That prompted long-time local resident Ian Dailly to write to me. My story, he said, brought back many memories of summertime and walking over to the store to buy popsicles for 6 cents and filling up little brown bags of penny candy. He mentioned the store’s water-bath-style cooler pop machine just inside the door. To get a pop you had to lift the lid, move the long neck bottle of your choice into position, pay your money, then wait for your bottle to be released.
Outside the store, was a step with wooden slats. Ian one day saw a dime underneath the slats. He found a long stick, and cleverly stuck a wad of gum on the end to guarantee successful dime retrieval!
Late West Vancouver Archivist Rupert A. Harrison conducted several interviews with West Vancouver “oldtimers.” On February 12, 1980, he spoke with Mrs. A. F. Ridley, (known as Jackie), the daughter of Horseshoe Bay Pioneer Herb Thorpe who arrived in the area from England in 1913. Herb’s name often arises during my research into local history.
During the interview, Mrs. Ridley said, her father “returned to England and got Mom, my
brother and me to come back with him. That was 1920.”
They arrived at the railway station which was located near where Gleneagles Ch’axáý Elementary is today. Access to the village required walking down a steep trail. It was nighttime and a railway worker and his wife met them carrying “swinging lanterns” for the walk.
“We wondered where on earth was Dad bringing us to?” Mrs Ridley said. “Not even a decent road to walk on! There’s been quite a lot of changes, haven’t there?”
To which Mr. Harrison responded, “lndeed, and I don’t know that they are all for the best.”
Mrs. Ridley continued: “But it was just beautiful, it was.”
In those days the village did not have an organized Fire Department. The Thorp’s property was conveniently located at Bruce and Royal, currently the site of the Horseshoe Bay Motel, and so their shed became home to the hose reel. It was from there that a big metal triangle could be heard summoning the volunteers.
In 1946 concerned residents decided that the area needed an organized fire brigade, and one was set up with Hebert Gorby as Fire Chief working with nine volunteers. In 1947, the Horseshoe Bay Progressive Association
the Swedish-built structure for $75 from the District of West Vancouver, Dad and Mom disassembled the cottage and transported it 600 km east via the Crowsnest Pass to Christina’s Kootenay shores where they barged the
LOOKING BACK
requested that the District provide better fire protection at the western end of the municipality. So, in 1950 when Firehall # 1 received a new fire truck, their 1942 International was transferred to Horseshoe Bay. Apparently, along with 1,000 feet of hose, this represented a huge step up from the old hose reel and a converted Dodge car.
In the Spring 2013 edition of The Westerner, Dave Patrick told of the Western Residents Association 2012 Christmas Dinner at Bay Moorings, a restaurant (some readers might remember) with a steep set of stairs and no elevator. Long time WRA member John Bannister had mobility issues and could not manage the stairs.
“A quick call to the then-assistant Chief of West Vancouver Fire and Rescue brought forth a promise of help, and help they did!” John and his wife Liz arrived at an arranged time not knowing what to expect. Within minutes, four firefighters arrived. With one on each leg of a solid restaurant chair, “they whisked John up the stairs followed by his electric scooter.” After the festivities the firefighters returned to the restaurant, to take John back down the stairs. “This memorable Christmas event was made even more special for John and Liz, and indeed all of us by the kind action of these firefighters.”
Thank you to the West Vancouver Archives, and Ian Dailly for their help with this article.
logs to their property for reassembling with friends. If this wasn’t exhausting enough, they undertook this adventure with three young children in tow. As his daughter, I observed Dad’s drive, determination, and unrelenting work ethic most profoundly at my parents’ beloved cottage.
Dad turned 100 years of age on Friday, September 27. He celebrated his centennial milestone with friends, family, and former students. (Verna, who passed away in 2017, was sorely missed.) Dad closed down the party with his trademark strength and willpower. When asked about his prescription for longev-
ity, he responds with the simple acronym ‘Mr. Shell’ – music, relaxation, scotch, hard (physical) work, exercise, laughter, and love. It is with great pride, gratitude, and love that we honour our beloved Dad and thank all who contributed to his celebration. “Great men live great lives, Sir.”
“Silver Bells”
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
Favourite seasonal songs and Christmas carols for the audience to enjoy and sing-along!
CHRIS ADSHEAD
Whytecliff Station circa 1920s.
Photo: courtesy of West Vancouver Archives
A night to remember
BY Lois Taylor
On a breathtaking fall evening, the West Vancouver Yacht Club transformed into the setting for the North Shore Soroptimists’ annual Lobsterfest Fundraiser, an event that not only brought the community together but served a greater purpose: empowering women and girls facing adversity.
Dressed to impress, guests connected over cocktails, explored a curated silent auction, captured memories at the photo booth, and entered a high-stakes draw for airplane tickets. The evening was emceed by Christina Casperson, whose charisma and humour kept the energy high as she guided attendees through the night’s events.
Club President Sharon Lockhart set the tone, warmly recognizing key dignitaries and reminding the audience of the importance of Soroptimist’s work. However, it
was Brodie Pountney, a former Live Your Dream award recipient, who delivered the night’s most impactful moment. Brodie, once a beneficiary of the organization’s support, has since become a successful professional and Soroptimist member herself. Her moving testimonial highlighted the life-changing impact of the Soroptimist mission.
Founded in 1921, Soroptimist International emerged at a time when women were excluded from service organizations. Today, with 65,000 members in 120 countries, the organization continues to advocate for women’s empowerment through education and skills training, giving women the tools to achieve economic independence.
The funds raised from this event will directly support local programs aimed at helping women and girls overcome hardship and build brighter futures.
As the night concluded, the overwhelming sense of community and purpose was
undeniable. The North Shore Soroptimists continue to extend an open invitation to anyone looking to join this life-changing mission. For more information on how to get involved, visit soroptimistnvwv.org.
The Lobsterfest fundraiser didn’t just live up to its name—it became a powerful reminder of the strength in unity and the profound impact we can make when we come together to uplift those in need.
New capital gains rules
ject to capital gains tax.
Since February 2000, income tax has been applied to 50% (the “inclusion rate”) of the capital gain. In other words, 50% of the capital gain would be added to your income and taxed at your marginal income tax rate.
Starting this year, however, two thirds or 66% of any realized capital gain will be taxable to businesses and trusts, and, on capital gains above $250,000, to individu-
als (amounts less than $250,000 continue to use a 50% inclusion rate). While this is less than the heavy pre-2000 75% inclusion rate, it will still have significant impact for the sale of investment real estate, securities, and business interests.
If you have such property, you may have had a strategy to efficiently manage the expected tax at time of sale or deemed disposition. This change to capital gains taxa-
tion may give good cause to review your particular situation with your tax planning advisor and make any appropriate strategic changes. Strategies to reduce tax according to the rules are a prudent and perfectly legal practice.
Michael Berton, RFP Ret. is a retired financial planner living on the North Shore.
Photo provided
Members of the Soroptimist International of North & West Vancouver club at the Lobsterfest 2024.
MICHAEL BERTON
TDAVID
ROBERTS
FROM THE INKWELL
A semicentennial worth celebrating
his summer, the inhabitants of the Caulfeild Cove townhouses celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of their homes, which were completed in August 1974.
This 5.5-acre lot, on the old Chappell property at 4957 Marine Drive, was originally an orchard planted by Francis Caulfeild. He had created smaller lots out of the 900 acres he had purchased and developed in the early 1900s. Caulfeild sold the orchard to William Chappell in 1925, for $25,000. Chappell ran a smallholding on it for nearly half a century, building a gas station, a general store and a boatyard on the south-east corner, which he later hived off from the main acreage. Sometime around 1935, Chappell decided to have this corner zoned commercially. He managed –accidentally –to get the entire 5 ½ acres zoned commercially. The corner acre was later developed into the row of shops with apartments above that we see there today, across
the road from the fire station.
After both the Chappells died, their estate sold an option to purchase the remaining 4.65 acre orchard to Bramalea Wescorp Co. owned by Mssrs. Wieser and Anderson, for $117,000. Their original plan for a shopping centre fell through, as a result of intense opposition from the neighbourhood. They then applied to the municipality for a land use contract to build 30 townhouses. When the municipality granted the land use contract, Bramalea exercised its option to purchase and hired architects Ron Howard and Barclay McLeod to design the complex. Completed in 1974, the homes sold for around $38,000 each, depending on their size and location. They now sell for as much as $1.8 million.
The architects tried to meld the design with the character of the area to minimise its impact in terms of visibility and disruption to the neighbourhood. One third of the
site was left natural to the north and west, and the homes were grouped in five clusters around a central swimming pool, creating a pleasant feeling of openness. Set back and stepped down from one another, they follow the natural slope of the site.
The complex is run by a strata corporation, so the houses are operated democratically. The strata throws a garden party each summer and this year it celebrated the fif-
tieth anniversary. The original design was intended for adults. However, there are now nearly a dozen children living in the complex which adds much to the ambiance and pleasure of living there. A couple of the more enterprising children ran a lemonade stand at the anniversary party. The proceeds from the sale of lemonade went to Veterinarians Without Borders.
Restorative Justice: A journey of learning and community impact
BY Rob Gloor
When I first joined the North Shore Restorative Justice Society (NSRJ) as Interim Executive Director this past spring, my understanding of the field of restorative justice was limited. Like many of my friends and neighbours, I knew of NSRJ and had heard about its incredible work in our community, but my knowledge was still very cursory. Fast forward a few months, and now I find myself talking to anyone who will listen about this incredible approach to healing and justice.
Restorative justice, at its core, is about connection. Drawing from Indigenous traditions, it’s a process that allows those affected by harm—both the person who caused it and the person impacted by it— to come together in a meaningful dialogue. Instead of focusing on punishment, restorative justice emphasizes accountability, reparation, and healing. This approach creates space for people to listen, understand, and rebuild trust.
At NSRJ, I’ve had the privilege of seeing
this work in action through our Restorative Response Program (RRP). This program offers an alternative to the traditional criminal justice system by bringing people into a space where they can understand the impact of their actions, make amends, and hopefully walk away with a deeper sense of community and responsibility. Powerful stories have emerged from RRP participants who’ve said that the process not only helped repair harm but also changed their lives in ways they didn’t expect.
We also work with children and youth through our Restorative Justice in Education (RJE) initiative. The Circles in Schools program enables students to communicate and resolve conflicts in ways that build empathy and connection. Other RJE activities allow young people to lead projects that focus on justice and community-building. These programs reflect the heart of NSRJ’s work—creating spaces where people feel heard, understood, and supported.
My learning curve over the past months has been steep, but it’s been so rewarding to see how restorative justice can create ripple effects of healing in our communities. As we
continue our work on the traditional lands of the Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh, and Musqueam First Nations, we invite members of our community to learn more with us. November 17-23 is International Restor-
ative Justice Week, and NSRJ will be sharing information and perspectives through our newsletter and our website (nsrj.ca). I’m excited to see how we can grow and deepen this important work together.
Photo: courtesy of W.V. Archives 1837.WVA.RAH Garden Party in The Cedarville gardens (annual benefit for St. Francis-in-the-Wood Church) ca 1933.
More than just volleyball
BY Sandy Hancock
The North Shore Stars is a local volleyball club where young female athletes play competitive volleyball locally, provincially and, at times, at national and international tournaments. And it is so much more than that. Founded in 2006, Stars is a not-for-profit organization run by community coaches and directors who have a deep commitment to developing the physical, social and psychological growth of youth.
The organization empowers young women to support one another and become present and future leaders in their community while competing in volleyball at a higher level and have fun while they are doing it. Stars aims to foster a continued love for sport, apply lessons learned both on and off the court and to develop athletes into the leaders of tomorrow.
When a player has been selected to a Stars team, the athlete and her family are
encouraged to become involved in the team and club activities, such as fundraising and volunteering. Athletes are encouraged to develop the skills needed to coach younger athletes. They are also then encouraged to give back to the community and consider becoming junior coaches and eventually assistant coaches with upcoming teams.
Stars also supports community through contributions to the Harvest Project and Athletics for Kids. Recently, the club had the opportunity to assist with the Rotary Club of West Vancouver Sunrise’s annual Rotary Ride for Rescue, right here in our own community.
Everyone is different and at Stars this is noted. Each athlete is encouraged to find her own strengths, both on and off the volleyball court. It is a recipe that has worked well for almost 20 years. The club will continue to work hard to make opportunities available to future young local athletes. For more information about the Stars, please visit their website at starsvolleyball.com
Rotary donations
BY Chris Stringer
The extraordinary ‘little Club that could’ has done it again. The 2024 annual Rotary Ride for Rescue raised in excess of $130,000.
Two cheques were presented to this year’s ride beneficiaries: North Shore Res-
cue and Royal Canadian Marine Rescue Station 1(RCMSAR) at a reception that was attended by participating cyclists, sponsors and district dignitaries.
The event was hosted by the members of the Rotary Club of West Vancouver Sunrise and ride organizer, Karen Harrison, to thank corporate sponsors and participating cyclists who raised significant funds.
North Shore Stars teams on the court. Photos: courtesy of Jonathan Goldschmidt provided by North Shore Stars Volleyball Club
Ambleside Orchestra
BY Zoe Robertson
On the surface, learning a musical instrument appears to be about mechanics. As a musician’s facility grows, their fingers work across keys, strings, bows, and bells with increasing agility, allowing them to paint pictures with pitch and tone. Technical ability, however, is only a small part of musical mastery. Underpinning technique is the art of practice, which encompasses the lifelong pursuit of self-discovery, emotional connection, commitment, and discipline. It is this that allows musicians to share what spoken language struggles to convey.
Hedar, an accomplished violinist with a deep capacity to communicate the intangible through music. Prioritizing generosity, community, kindness, and friendship, Bernadette bolstered the AO’s string section for more than 15 years, ultimately serving as leader of the second violins.
For some of the
discipline, but many children face barriers to accessing this education through music.
In October 2023, the Ambleside Orchestra (AO) said farewell to Bernadette
musicians in the AO, their own musical journeys began in adulthood, but many like Bernadette Hedar were fortunate enough to begin their path in childhood. Early exposure to the art of practice can act as a strong foundation for skill-building in any
On December 1 at 3 pm, the AO will hold its final concert of 2024 at Highlands United Church in Edgemont Village. In conjunction with this concert, the AO is honouring Bernadette’s memory with the Bernadette Hedar Instrument Drive, which seeks donations of orchestral instruments. Donated instruments will be passed on to the St. James Music Academy in East
Vancouver, which provides low- and nocost music instruction to children. Smallsize string instruments in good condition are particularly appreciated.
If you have an instrument you would like to donate and are unable to bring it to the concert, please contact the AO’s collection team at HedarInstrumentDrive@gmail. com. AO season program information can be found at amblesideorchestra.ca.
Bernadette Hedar (L) and Zella Baran (R) having fun at an orchestra rehearsal. Photo provided
WANNE BAIRD ANNE’S CORNER
Between worlds
e live on the top floor of our 8-story, 65-year-old apartment building. And love it!
The height of an 8-story building from road level to top, is between 75 and 77 feet. That puts us squarely between two worlds: the world of our birds and flight, and the busy world of humanity below.
Migrating birds can fly at altitudes of up to 3,000 or 5,000 feet. But our gulls, crows, hummingbirds, and sparrows have chosen–like us–to live in West Van. Their normal flight path is the height of our balcony.
They announce their presence at the crack of dawn. Assembling on a small green pasture on the south side of the street, they greet the coming day with a chorus of calls and challenges to rival flocks and interlopers. Next, they fly, squawking, past our bedroom windows, reminding us that they’re up. So, why aren’t we?
We get the message. I trundle into the kitchen to get our morning coffee. Keen of hearing, the birds detect my progress. Old regulars, gulls Busby 1 and 2, who’ve been with me for years, are joined by a new gang of cheeky crows. They line up on the balcony railing of our back patio waiting their turn.
Do I feed them? I do. Not a lot. A few appropriate scraps from last night’s dinner, (the Busbys love shrimp tails) and wholesome crusts of multigrain bread. A scatter of dry, healthy cereal. The main part of their diet still comes from the beaches and garbage bins they’ll raid.
After morning snack, the casuals take off. But the Busbys remain, staring at us as if memorizing our faces. An eagle sits atop a pine tree across the road. A flock of geese fly past, honking, just above the growing traffic on Marine Drive. Hummingbirds arrive at their feeder. Overhead, man-made birds –a helicopter and a sea plane –buzz past. Contrails tell us that high-flying jets are carving the clouds.
Down below, the working world of humans has come alive. The birds and I watch as hammering workmen replace the library roof. Traffic is picking up. Buses, trucks, motorcycles, bikes, and cars compete for advantage in the race to work. Ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars scream past.
Overlooking Bellevue Avenue to the south, a train rattles by. Tugboats, cruise ships, barges, motor and sailboats, canoes and even paddleboards, surge through the waters of the Burrard Inlet, heading east to Vancouver, or west to
the ocean.
The birds and I watch with admiration as a window cleaner rappels down the side of a skyscraper across the road. What a world we live in! We return to the back patio and settle down for a rest. They, on the railing, I, on my cast-iron bed.
Oh, Brave New World that hath such wonders in it!
Stylish Living Redefined
We have a beautiful 1-bedroom + den suite with ocean and mountain views and thoughtfully selected interiors, available starting at $8,880.
At Westerleigh PARC, refined comfort, convenience and stunning natural surroundings elevate the everyday. Just blocks from the ocean and mountains, and at the centre of a warm and vibrant neighbourhood, it’s the perfect place to call home.
All suites include PARC’s Active Living™ program offering the perfect balance of delectable menus, fitness classes, and engaging programming to ensure you’re living your best life everyday.
BHere comes the rain
efore you settle into the relentless rain with that stack of books you have been saving for fireside reading, let’s gaze into your garden.
Who doesn’t like roses? November is one of the best months to plant them, including the mail order bare root ones. They like rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil and most need six hours of direct sun. Make sure to rake up the fallen leaves of any existing roses to prevent overwintering diseases and do a final dead heading. Generally, now is not the time to prune, except for minor wispy bits.
There is still time to put in spring-blooming bulbs, as long as the soil is not yet frozen.
Lime lawns now with dolomite lime as its granular form breaks down slowly through the winter to help keep the pH level (a measure of soil acidity or alkalinity) at around 6 to 7 (on a scale of 1 to 10).
A bit of a messy job, it’s best to cut back all your perennials to the ground and compost the waste if you can. Some ornamental grasses can be left for interesting appeal. Some interesting shrubs – like Pyracantha (orange or yellow berries), roses with large ‘hips’, Cotoneaster with
clusters of bright berries and Skimmia (the female) – have berries that last through winter.
If you are a balcony gardener and have planted an ornamental tree, a word of caution: last year, a friend lost a beautiful Camillia ‘Yuletide’ during a two-week stretch of sub-zero temperatures when the plant froze. So, wrap your tree and pot in an old blanket to protect it from the elements.
plan
Cornus mas (Cornelian Cherry) is an ornamental shrub to consider. The leafless branches are covered with paleyellow flowers in February, and in the fall the birds love its reddish berries. It can be managed well with pruning to shape.
Enjoy!
A beautiful Eagle Harbour Bungalow, 5755 Telegraph Trail is unlike any other home in the area. Perched high atop an almost 12,000 sq ft Seaside view lot this 3 bdrm/3 bthrm residence is beyond special. On approach the hardiplank cladded home exudes a pride of ownership that is undeniable. The main oor boasts a level living space & o ers a fully remodelled gourmet kitch, HW oors, A/C w principal rooms bene tting from wraparound covered deck & windows that integrate Primary ensuite, dining/living & kitch w outdoor space/beautiful apple trees & garden below. The lower property has secondary gated access o street & potential for carriage house. Only min. from sandy beaches, schools & shopping this opportunity that embodies the best of westcoast living!!
Built by renowned developer Cascadia, this home has been fully renovated & is a must see! The main oor boasts level entry from the garage and showcases beautiful HW oors, 12 ft vaulted ceilings, 2 FP’s, large Ocean view balcony & remodeled gourmet kitchen with highend SS appliance package. Exclusive upper bdrm is an optional primary ensuite with private balcony while below main feat. Gorgeous primary/ensuite, walk-in, media room, climate controlled wine cooler, 4th bath + 2nd & 3rd bdrms rounding out a spectacular package that is both elegant & e cient. Only minutes from shopping, schools & recreation this is the very best of Caulfeild living in a home that delivers the goods on every level.
A rarely available “front row” unit in Sahalee! This lovely home was renovated in 2020 & bene ts from the best outlook in this unique upper caulfeild community. This 2 story layout features an optional bdrm/den on main w. ALL New kitchen, living, dining, bathroom. New carpet & oak plank HW oor all opens to a beautiful balcony that boasts world class views of ocean & islands. Downstairs both bedrooms o er the same as oorplan a ords you 2 outdoor spaces with an integrated covered patio leading out to a beautiful small garden. On entry you will pass through a private courtyard that perfectly frames this charming property. This optimal location is only steps from schools, shopping & recreation and o ers the comfort of central A/C w 2 car garage & storage. By appointment, Easy to show.
bath & lofted bedroom above the family/rec room boasting 14 & 11 ft vaulted ceilings. Like the downstairs all the principal rooms look to the western views of Howe Sound & Bowen Island. Only minutes from Larson Beach, recreation & schools make clear why this location is so revered in West Vancouver.
I will personally always be there to help you with the details and decisions of this important event in your
” - Franco
In the 15 years that I’ve helped my clients buy and sell homes here, I’ve always
In the 13 years that I’ve helped my clients buy and sell homes here, I’ve always felt that I’m not just selling a home, I’m selling a lifestyle. When I move someone into a new home, the process doesn’t end with me handing them the keys; I’m involved in connecting them with their new community - my community. I was fortunate to grow up in Eagle Harbour and my husband, in Horseshoe Bay. Our son and daughter learn in the same classrooms that we did at Gleneagles - it doesn’t get more local than 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 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.
I feel very fortunate to have fashioned a successful career doing 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.
195 ISLEVIEW PLACE $2,295,000 LIONS BAY
Tastefully updated, 4 bdrm / 3 bthrm / 2729 SF home with stunning ocean and nature views. Incredible setting on a private oasis with creek and old-growth forest. Situated on a family friendly cul-desac with flat driveway - walk to beach, trails, store, café, and school.
60 PANORAMA ROAD $2,495,000 LIONS BAY
This 6 bdrms / 4 bthrm / 2016 SF reimagined Lewis Post and Beam home won House & Home’s 2021 awards for best kitchen, living room, and bathroom. This West Coast gem offers stunning ocean, island, and mountain views, a 2-bedroom suite, and an ideal layout.
382 MATHERS AVENUE $1,699,000 BRITISH PROPERTIES
ceilings, a new gourmet kitchen, a cozy family room, garage, and outdoor pool.
5704 WESTPORT ROAD $3,148,000
Nestled in absolute privacy, this 5 bdrm + office / 5 bthrm / 5661 SF residence sits on over ½ an acre surrounded by lush gardens. It features an open-plan, gourmet kitchen, hobby room, games room, gym, sauna, hot tub, greenhouse, garage, and gated driveway.
405 TIMBERTOP DRIVE $1,899,000 LIONS BAY
This move-in ready, 3 bdrm / 3 bthrm / 2,586 SF West Coast contemporary home features stunning ocean views. Openconcept living with bedrooms upstairs, rec room/gym below. Private, nearly 1-acre lot. Many updates throughout.
15 LIONS BAY AVENUE $1,859,000 LIONS BAY
Coastal paradise just steps from the beach! This cherished 3 bdrm + office / 5 bthrm / 2444 SF family home features ocean views, updated kitchen, cozy living spaces, 3 ensuited bedrooms up, 4-car heated garage with service pit - all on a private 12518 SF lot.
35 PERIWINKLE PLACE $2,999,000 LIONS BAY
This 3 bdrm + office / 3 bthrm / 3000 SF contemporary masterpiece is perched on a bluff in Lions Bay overlooking panoramic ocean views. Exquisite finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an expansive deck with jacuzzi and pool defining luxury living.
2901 120 WEST 2ND STREET $4,200,000 LOWER LONSDALE
This extensively renovated 3 bdrm / 3 bthrm / 2328 SF penthouse offers unparalleled luxury with sweeping city and harbor views. It features 4 levels, 1500+ SF of private outdoor terraces, a gourmet kitchen, 12-foot ceilings, custom built-ins, and 3 secured parking.
8579 ANSELL PLACE $3,488,000 HOWE SOUND
Nestled on over half an acre in a quiet cul-de-sac, this completely renovated 4 bdrm / 3 bthrm / 2806 SF home boasts unparalleled westerly views of Howe Sound. Crafted with the highest quality materials, it seamlessly blends sophistication with modern luxury. SOLD
4918 EDENDALE LANE 4386 KEITH ROAD
CAULFEILD, WEST VANCOUVER
Explore your perfect downsizing opportunity in the prestigious Rockcliffe Estates! Immerse yourself in this exclusive haven, conveniently located near all essential amenities. Tucked away in a tranquil corner of the community, this residence boasts an inviting presence, ready for you to make it your own.
Offered at $2,598,000
CYPRESS PARK ESTATES, WEST VANCOUVER
CYPRESS, WEST VANCOUVER
Discover this 2,528 sq ft architectural gem. The spacious chef’s kitchen features high-end appliances, custom pull-out cabinets, a built-in wine fridge, oversized quartz countertop. With 3 bedrooms, an office, and 2.5 bathrooms this stunning residence checks all the boxes.
Offered at $2,698,000
FURRY CREEK, WEST VANCOUVER
Enjoy both the beauty and the soothing sounds of the ocean from your own WATERFRONT seaside retreat. Luxury and lifestyle await you at Oliver’s Landing, a prestigious gated community just 20 minutes from West Vancouver.
Offered at $2,098,000
Experience breathtaking views from this stunning property, featuring an expansive open floor plan and 5,299 sq ft of luxurious living space. With 6 spacious bedrooms and a swimming pool, this home is designed for comfort and entertainment. Large family room adjacent to the kitchen that offers a picturesque view of the ocean and pool. Over $450K in upgrades.
Offered at $3,698,000
“We have bought and sold 12 homes over the past 40 years and we can honestly say that Christy was the best realtor that we have worked with. We were impressed at the start with her selling strategy and marketing outreach. We were going to interview 2-3 realtors but immediately decided to go with Christy after our interview. Throughout the selling process we continued to be impressed with Christy’s professionalism, enthusiasm, humour, and her ability to actively listen to our concerns and respond to our questions. We sold our home in a very challenging market with record low sales and a surplus of housing inventory. Christy worked very hard holding numerous open houses and following up with all those who expressed an interest. Even though the market was challenging we got a fair offer close to our asking price with a second buyer ready to write a back-up offer if the first buyer didn’t remove subjects. We would strongly recommend Christy to anyone looking to sell their home. She is an exceptional real estate agent but more importantly a great person who truly cares about her clients and does all she can to ensure a successful outcome.”
Regards, Tony and Adraina Gugliotta
4787 Westwood Place Cypress Park Estates. Sold in September 2024
