West Vancouver Beacon | March/April 2021 | Edition 43

Shedding light on the communities from Lions Bay to West Bay

Photo: West Vancouver Archives

Horseshoe Bay, circa 1930. See pages 12 and 13 for stories on the past and future of the Bay.

COMMUNITY PERSONALITY

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TALKATIVE TEEN

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IN THIS ISSUE 4

FEELING EMPTINESS

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PLACE FOR SPORT

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

The Penny Mitchell Group Penny & Stephanie Mitchell 604-816 -7825 • 604 -812-7158 • www.pennymitchell.com TM

March/April 2021

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HORSESHOE BAY L.A.P.

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THE No. 43

BEACON

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March /April 2021

LINDY PFEIL OPINION TEAM

A beautiful day in the neighbourhood

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 West Bay. 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.

O

n February 17, I attended an online gathering hosted by the West Vancouver Foundation, to celebrate the 2020 Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grant projects. It was proof again, as if proof were needed, of how special this community is.

More than 40 people attended the event.

Adine Mees, CEO, West Vancouver Foundation, board chair Nancy Farran, and Karin Kirkpatrick, MLA, West VancouverCapilano were all in attendance, as was West Vancouver Mayor, Mary-Ann Booth, many district councillors, and staff, board members and volunteers of the West Vancouver Foundation. Also part of the celebration were some of the project leaders and participants of the 2020 initiative.

The Neighbourhood Small Grant (NSG) program was started in 1999 as a way to combat loneliness and social isolation.

Small grants enable individuals to bring their projects to life, interacting in imaginative ways with community members they may not previously have been familiar with.

Projects have included park cleanups, emergency preparedness meetings, community gardens and enhanced block parties. Due to COVID-19, the program was revised to the Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grant (RNSG) program – a program for “virtual” events or for small gatherings (within social distancing guidelines) with the purpose of organizing larger community building projects.

Many of the 2020 projects involved giving

back to those more vulnerable to, or more affected by the pandemic, such as care packages, plants, cards and messages, homemade masks, holiday ornaments and gifts.

There were also projects that involved online gatherings such as online art demonstrations, free fitness classes, neighbours

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate action of its members.”

Coretta Scott King

helping neighbours groups, online book clubs and a couple of online writers’ support groups.

Then there were some that involved physical activities, that took place with smaller groups and within COVID safety guidelines.

These included converting an old storage room to a community fitness space in a seniors’ subsidized housing building, building a community garden that honoured a longtime resident and a community garden in a low income building (sharing the harvest).

I was one of the lucky grant recipients in 2020. West Vancouver Stories: The Pandemic

Project contains the stories of 23 ‘ordinary’ West Van citizens. Some of them are Beacon writers. Many of them are Beacon readers.

All of them have shared, as Mayor Booth said, “compelling and intimate reflections on life during this extraordinary time.”

This project was rewarding in so many ways, not least because of the friendships that were kindled during the process, and the sense of community that was nurtured.

(See page 3 for details of the March 18 book launch.) One participant had this to say: “I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the opportunity to participate. We are creating community while encouraging creativity, courage and bringing visibility to something beautiful in a time when there has been a lot of ugliness. We need more of that in the world.”

If you have an idea to make your community stronger, safer and more welcoming, now is your time to act! The 2021 Neighbourhood Small Grant program is open for applications between February 23 and April 20. The foundation is hoping to fund 40 projects this year. It funded 36 projects in 2019, and 25 last year. Details can be found at www.westvanfoundation.ca/nsg.

Denise Howell, of the West Vancouver Foundation, says: “It is such a wonderful program and I’m always amazed at the positive impact a small grant can have – when you have project leaders with such big heart!”

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

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March /April 2021

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MARCH 18

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Over the course of three weeks, 23 ‘ordinary’ West Vancouver citizens, between the ages of 16 and 86, gathered online to share their experiences of being alive during this astounding time in history. The book, West Vancouver Stories: The Pandemic Project, is proof that everyone is a storyteller, and that it is our stories that unite us.

Mary-Ann Booth, Mayor of West Vancouver, says: “The pandemic of 20/21 has impacted us all in ways none of us could have imagined. While we are united in fighting this common enemy, how each of us experiences it is unique. And I believe that to develop empathy as a society, we need to hear the stories of others. That’s why the West Vancouver Stories initiative is so important. It’s an opportunity for a diverse and courageous cross-section of our community to share compelling and intimate reflections on life during this extraordinary time; and for the rest of us to understand and appreciate those insights.”

The official online launch of West Vancouver Stories: The Pandemic Project takes place on Thursday, March 18 from 4-5 pm. Three copies of the book will be given away as ‘screen prizes.’

West Vancouver Stories: The Pandemic Project is a celebration of hope and resilience. It is available to purchase on Amazon. Huge thanks to the West Vancouver Foundation for funding this initiative, and to all the writers who generously – and courageously – participated in this process. These include: Anne Baird, Annie Hill, Brenda Morrison, Chris Stringer, Deanna Regan, D. Higgins, Domenica Mastromatteo, Elizabeth Wooding, Elke Babicki, Fay Mehr, Jennifer (Lutes) Hill, Joanne Singleton, Julie Flynn, Karen Hoffman, Karen Tidball, Kimberley Clarke, Lindy Hughes Pfeil, L. Noel, Melody Noble, Rose Lepin, Sharon Selby, Sharon Thompson, Wendy Wilkins Winslow.

There will be an opportunity to chat with the writers at the online launch. The event is free to all attendees, but requires registration. To receive the Zoom link, email lindypfeil@mac.com by Wednesday, March 17.

MEET SOME OF THE CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

West Vancouver Stories: The Pandemic Project O N L I N E BOO K L A U N C H Elke Babicki has been a consultant and clinical counsellor in Toronto and Vancouver for over thirty years. In 2011, Elke received the Women of Worth Leader of the Year Award for her work in supporting and inspiring women across the globe. She lives by the ocean in West Vancouver with her husband, Matt, an engineer and inventor. She is the author of Identity: From Holocaust to Hope, which was published in Germany as Uebern Ozean in 2017 with great success.

Sharon Thompson’s many years of participating in school and neighborhood initiatives exposed her to countless volunteers and grew her sense of community. Stepping into provincial and municipal governance has unveiled a deep understanding and appreciation for the unparalleled breadth of local brain trust, talent and resourcefulness.

She is ever inspired, grateful and proud to be a part of West Vancouver, where she serves as district councillor.

Julie Flynn was born and raised in Newcastle, England. After a brief visit to Canada, she immigrated in 2001. She soon developed a love for the great outdoors, especially trail running in the mountains. Julie’s writing is inspired by her frequent adventures in the North Shore mountains and beyond. Her debut children’s book, Finn and the Magic Backpack, was an Amazon bestseller and a finalist in the 2018 Canadian Book Club Awards.

Rose Lepin has been a resident of West Vancouver since she was two years old.

Currently a grade 11 student, she is adjusting to the dynamic approach to schooling brought on by the pandemic. Rose is the current reigning Miss Teen Greater Vancouver (2019-2021) and a top 6 national finalist for Miss Teen Canada 2020. A Beacon contributor since grade 8, Rose hopes to use her voice to help others feel less alone.

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Brenda Morrison grew up wandering the hillside and seaside of West Vancouver. Her heart sang a deep song when her adventurous spirit brought her home, to raise her children close to the land and the family she holds dear. Her life’s work is centred on respectful relationships with the land and its people, upholding the spirit of diversity and inclusion. She is honoured and grateful to be the Director of SFU’s Centre for Restorative Justice and serve on the board of North Shore Restorative Justice. She believes walking the talk in your own backyard brings justice home.

To learn more about all the contributing writers, go to

www.westvanstories.com

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March /April 2021

The legacy of Harry Jerome BY

Geoff Jopson

Capital Campaign Committee West Vancouver Place for Sport “Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” Nelson Mandela

W

est Vancouver Schools, in partnership with the District, has announced that the new running track at the West Vancouver Place for Sport will be named in honour of Harry Jerome, British Columbia’s male athlete of the 20th century and recipient of the Order of Canada.

Harry grew up on the North Shore in the 1950s, training and competing for North Van High on the old cinder track at West Van Secondary School, the site of this exciting new community facility. It was here, in 1959, that he broke numerous sprint records at the annual Howe Sound track meet. Harry’s remarkable success on the track was a front page story at the time, and many long-time North Shore residents recall with pride his status as a local sports hero.

“Our Harry Ties Mark” was the headline in the North Shore Citizen that celebrated the day, only weeks later, when he equalled a sprint record held for more than 31 years

by Olympic Gold Medalist Percy Williams.

By 1960, and still a teenager, he was considered one of the world’s fastest men.

Looking back, those who rejoiced at Harry’s athletic achievements had little sense of the deep racial injustice that he, his sister Valerie, and their family members had experienced since their arrival

from Winnipeg in 1951.

Valerie Jerome, in her address to the Vancouver Historical Society in celebration of Black History Month, describes the racism that her family experienced: “[It was] a constantly erosive evil. You might think that the old saying sticks and stones will break my bones, but names will never hurt me is true. But I assure you that you could not be more wrong. Going back to the racism that we as a family endured, and up to the present…it hurt and deeply damaged members of our family. Individually and as a family we were fractured and scarred.”

Harry and Valerie, herself an Olympian, found acceptance, safety and joy through track and field. In 1958 they were invited to join a new track club, the Optimist Striders.

It was “a fabulous oasis of peace, calm, and of family,” Valerie says. “Here we were judged by the stopwatch and the measuring tape, not by the colour of our skin. This was our real home, where we were elevated and warmed from within by the camaraderie, love, and respect of our coach and our teammates.”

After graduation, Harry accepted an athletic scholarship to the University of Oregon, and went on to set seven world sprint records and represent Canada in three Olympic Games.

But the real story of Harry Jerome is of a man who overcame the anguish of both prejudice and injury. A gold medal favourite at the 1960 Rome Olympics, he ruptured his hamstring and was unable to finish – a national disappointment that unleashed harsh media criticism across Canada. Unfairly labelled a quitter, Harry was determined to compete again at the

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highest level.

In 1962, he joined the Canadian team at the British Commonwealth Games in Australia, having just set a new world record.

Adversity struck again in the final, however, when he suffered an injury so severe that the doctors initially believed he might never walk again. At age 22, it seemed his promising athletic career was at an end.

Fueled by a fierce determination to prove his detractors wrong, Harry underwent extensive surgery, followed by months of rehabilitation that tested his personal motto, “Never give up,” in a way he could never have imagined.

Less than a year later he was competing again, prompting legendary coach Bill Bowerman to describe his recovery as “the greatest comeback in track and field history.” In 1964, Harry won a bronze medal at See ‘Harry Jerome Oval’ — page 5

Harry Jerome on the track, circa 1959.

Harry Jerome with his friend, Muhammad Ali.

Photos: Courtesy of Valerie Jerome

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PAGE 5

IAN MACPHERSON

“R

PSYCHED OUT

Is your relationship good, bad or ugly?

elationships are always a kind of dance,” says the therapist. “You know the old saying that it takes two to tango.”

“Not in my case,” replies Yin. “I give up!

My husband, Garth, is a psychopath!”

More than a few times I have heard someone diagnosing their partner with some mental disorder and using that as an explanation for their relationship troubles.

The ‘diagnosis’ is usually presented as if it is a terminal disease, presumably relieving the diagnoser of any responsibility for the couple’s problems.

We perceive others’ faults and our own pain more easily than the other way around.

As Scottish poet, Robbie Burns, observed: “To see ourselves as others see us! It would from many a blunder free us.” This is a good

formula for a balanced look at interpersonal conflict in general.

But is it always true that we share the blame for a bad relationship? Might Yin be right? What if Garth is indeed a psychopath?

Psychopaths exhibit some very unpleasant, even dangerous, traits. Essentially, they have no conscience. It is not that they do not know the difference between right and wrong; they just don’t care. They have no empathy and no sense of guilt when they behave unethically, immorally or illegally.

Self-interest is their principal goal and lying, manipulation and deception are commonly used to achieve this.

Research has shown that the brains of psychopaths do not process emotion ‘normally.’ They cannot help being who they are.

So far, no treatment has been successful in

Harry Jerome Oval Continued from page 4

the Tokyo Olympic Games, and went on to win gold at the 1966 British Commonwealth Games and the 1967 Pan American Games.

Why is it that some who face great adversity in life are able to display remarkable strength and courage? As a youth, Harry found his resilience on the track, and he fully understood the power of sport to change lives. It is not surprising then, that he devoted the remainder of his life to building programs designed to inspire

Canadians to achieve their own athletic dreams. In 1975, after helping Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau create Canada’s new Ministry of Sport, Harry returned to British Columbia to establish the Premier’s Sports Awards Program.

Valerie Jerome explains: “Harry died suddenly at the age of 42, just weeks after this program had been officially launched.

He would have been happy to know that it reached thousands of British Columbia children who wore with pride their colourful awards. Harry had so desperately want-

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changing their patterns.

What you see is not what you get, when you get involved with a psychopath. Sooner or later you will be forced to face the lie.

Psychopaths are con men (or women) who prey on the naive and unsuspecting, or those who may be so desperate for love that they overlook the signs that less emotionally burdened individuals would find alarming.

So, if Yin is right, even though she is not culpable for Garth’s chronic dishonesty and harmful attitudes and behaviour, her psychological vulnerability has still played a part in the dance. Failure to come to terms with this kind of relationship allows psychopaths to continue their abuse.

If you are experiencing a bad relationship, should you be concerned that your partner is so malignant that there is no hope? Probably

not. But the chance of a potential mate being a psychopath is about one in a hundred – not an insignificant lottery.

Another variant is the sociopath. Though about ten times more common, this pattern might be thought of as psychopath “light” since the anti-social behaviour reflects more of a weakened moral compass which, fortunately, can yield to correction.

Though Yin was not completely misguided, it turns out that Garth did not qualify as a psychopath. The couple’s relationship needed major work, including some improved insight into their ethnic differences, but it was revealed not to be hopelessly ugly.

Ian Macpherson is a psychologist who lives and practices in West Vancouver. More at www.westvancouvertherapist.com

Canada’s Governor General, Roland Michener, awarding the Order of Canada to Harry Jerome in 1971.

ed other young people to enjoy the bounty of good fortune and happiness brought to him through sports.”

Harry Jerome’s legacy goes well beyond his distinguished athletic career. Whether you walk, run, train or compete on the new track, it is our hope that you will take the time to learn more about Harry, and what his story can teach us about building a more civil society.

For information about Harry Jerome Oval and the West Vancouver Place for Sport, please visit www.wvpfs.org.

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March /April 2021

BRIAN POMFRET

JOE GARDENER

Showers for spring flowers

Spring begins in March!

• A bit about rhododendrons: most love dappled shade so avoid deep shade or full sun, a few hours of sun is ideal.

The soil should be moist, rich in humus and have a pH of around 5/6. Plant now or in October and remember that rhodos are surface rooting so don’t plant too deep. Keep them well watered after planting, especially during hot spells. Prune only to removed dead wood and deadhead finished flowers.

• Work with your roses now by pruning as you see a bud about to burst through. Prune just above an outward facing bud at 45 degrees. Shape to attain the desired height and cut out crossing branches.

• When the soil is a little warmer, plant summer bulbs such as lilies, dahlias and gladiola.

• Aerate your lawn with a ‘plug removing’ type machine and follow up with a half inch top dressing of ‘turf mix’ soil.

Then overseed at double the package rate.

By April, spring is full-on (or should be).

• Get to edging all your garden beds. It looks so great to see them defined from lawns.

• Mulch around your roses with a well-rotted manure. Roses love this! Put your banana skins in the soil. They have lots of nutritional trace elements.

• Shear back your winter-flowering heathers slightly to pro-

mote growth and new buds.

• Trim your evergreen hedges.

• Fertilize lawns now, with an application of lime a few weeks later.

• Mulch your garden beds with a good soil amender (pure compost) or composted bark mulch, but don’t dig in the bark.

• S ome great shrubs are Berberis darwinii, Ceanothus, Choisya ternata, all Daphne, Fothergilla and Kerria japonica.

MICHAEL BERTON

DOLLARS AND SENSE

Know about caregiver tax relief

T

here is no doubt that 2020 has been a tough year. It has been especially tough on those caring for loved ones. Regardless of the situation, there is no denying that looking after someone who is sick or disabled can take up a great deal of your time, patience and money. The tax system can relieve some of the challenges you may face as a caregiver with four key non-refundable tax credits: the medical expense tax credit, the disability tax credit, the home accessibility tax credit and the Canada caregiver credit.

Are you paying out-of-pocket for a loved one’s dentist bills? What about their home care?

In such cases, you may be able to find some tax

relief through the medical expense tax credit (METC). This is a non-refundable tax credit for “qualifying medical expenses” that exceed a certain threshold – the lesser of 3% of net income or $2,397 (2020). All eligible medical expenses (see CRA website) nor covered by health plans, count. You can claim your own expenses, those of your spouse and children and even for others who depend on you for support, such as adult children, grandchildren, and your parents or your spouse’s parents.

If you are taking care of someone who is dependent on you, and has a persistent physical or mental disability, you may be able to cut your income tax bill with the disability tax credit (DTC).

For 2020, the amount for an adult is $8,576.

There is an additional supplement for children under 18. To qualify, a medical professional must certify there is a severe and prolonged impairment. Once you get the green light from the CRA, you can claim the disability credit as a caregiver, or transfer the credit to your spouse or common-law partner.

Did you have a wheelchair ramp, walk-in bathtub or grip bar built into your home last year? The home accessibility tax credit (HATC) can be worth up to $1,500 per calendar year, per individual. To claim this credit, your renovation must be made to help a person who is already approved for the DTC. It can even be combined with the METC. If you provide food, shelter or clothing for

a loved one with a handicap, injury or illness, you may qualify for the Canada caregiver credit (CCC). This can be your partner, child, grandchild, parent, sibling or other close relative, or even stepchildren or in-laws, so long as they’re dependent on you as a caregiver, and you regularly and consistently provide them with some or all of the basic necessities of life. The value of this federal credit depends on your relationship to the cared-for person but can range up to $7,276 per person (2020). You can also claim a complimentary BC tax credit.

Michael Berton is a Senior Financial Planner with Assante Financial Management Ltd. mberton@assante.com

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March /April 2021

PAGE 7

A feeling of emptiness St. Francis-in-the-Wood Church PORTRAYED BY Chris Stringer

I

’ll be 93 this year and, believe me, I’ve seen it all. I know I don’t get around and people will say that my perspective is narrow but you won’t believe what I hear. I have an ear to the ground and to the walls in every nook and cranny of this place, so not much gets by me.

If I was a person, I would be known as a people person. I was built for people and my life has been exhilarating because of it. I have been blessed to share the happiest times in people’s lives: weddings, baptisms, Christmases and on. I have been entrusted to share the sad times too where I provide warmth and comfort.

I am, of course, a home for spirituality. A place for communicating with God. I’m available 24/7 for people to give thanks and pay their respects, either in congregation or alone.

Just outside my south wall is the Memorial Garden where generations of parishioners’ ashes lie. The garden is visited regularly, in summer and winter. People also linger for hours in the meditation centre beside it, overlooking the tranquility of the cove.

In the old days, my hall was hopping with cubs, scouts, guides and brownies. Teenagers would hang out here to play basketball.

A few blocks from here, families lived and worked at the cannery. In the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s, I was it for the neighbourhood – the only place for community groups to meet.

Eventually the cannery closed and community centres opened. Two-car families made transporting kids easier. Bus service

improved and things became quieter. This was when the smart folks that operate me turned the upstairs Sunday school area into a Montessori School. The secluded back area made for a natural playground. A brightlycoloured tunnel was added, as was a walk-in doll house and lots of sit-on toys. I just love the noise and ruckus.

I am known in Vancouver as the wedding church. Some Saturdays I’ve hosted three weddings! Funerals can take place any day of the week. The office is open during the week for church business. Daytime groups, like quilters and crafters, meet in the lounge.

My evenings are filled with singing, as choirs from all over the community rehearse here.

And then there are community events like dances, concerts, pub nights and fundraisers which usually last till around 11p.m. when volunteers come in to clean so that I’m spotless for the 8 a.m. Sunday service.

I have appeared in movies and TV shows.

This involves teams of people everywhere from the cove through the gardens and into the church. Exciting! One year the great Katharine Hepburn performed and the press was uncontrollable.

Life over the past 92 years has fulfilled every dream of a people-oriented place like me. I share people’s emotional moments, both happy and sad. The quiet, respectful moments are as inspiring for me as the noisy, exuberant ones. Old and new friends have occupied my life generation after generation. I am the only constant and I love the role I play.

The year 2020 changed it all. For the first time in my life, I experienced emptiness.

When the COVID-19 shutdown occurred in March, church services and facility activities ceased. The Montessori closed in

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April. My sanctuary, hall, lounge, offices and school sat empty.

Church leaders took advantage of the situation by giving me a summer sprucing up. On May 25, repairs and painting began!

My rotten eight foot high rooftop cross was removed. Birds had been nesting in it. Its 250 pound replacement was raised the 40 feet and installed. In June, my roof was replaced– all 14,682 square feet. It took five weeks. I look good as new again, ready for the next generation’s activities.

Life seems to be gradually returning. I am encouraged. The Montessori school opened on September 9 and I love hearing the kids playing again. The church office has also re-opened.

In September, parishioners started up a thrift store called Nifty Thrifty. Volunteers collect donations and prepare them for monthly sales. And in November, a movie shoot brought lights, cameras and so much action. It was so exciting!

Things are far from the norm though and the ultimate 2020 disappointment for me was Christmas. No decorations in the stained glass windows or surrounding the choir. No Christmas tree reaching to the rafters. No carols sung loudly by happy people jammed into every seat.

The Bible says, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation.” So I enter 2021 with patience and hope. Hope for safety, peace and love. Hope that my Sundays return. Hope for an end to this emptiness.

Excerpted from the book West Vancouver Stories: The Pandemic Project, published with funding from the West Vancouver Foundation’s Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grant (RNSG) program. For more information, visit www.westvanstories.com.

Photo: West Vancouver Archives St Francis-in-the-Wood Lych Gate, circa 1935.

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March /April 2021

CHRIS STRINGER

Harry Greenwood: quite the force

W

est Vancouver Citizen of the Year in 2015, Harry Greenwood was recognized for his service to the community by MP Pamela GoldsmithJones in the House of Parliament on May 27, 2016. Harry was 91 at the time.

What makes this exceptional, is that this body of service work only began after Harry’s 75th birthday. In 1998, Harry began his tireless commitment to the health and wellbeing of West Vancouver’s veterans, serving on the executive committee with stints as vice-president and chair of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 60. He was the Branch Service Officer until a year ago.

A veteran of WWII himself, Harry has received the Legion of Honour from the Republic of France and the Canadian Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation, the ministry’s highest honour. He has been recognized, along with his fellow veterans,

Harry and Prince Charles.

at numerous Memorial Day celebrations.

“It is always humbling standing there with those guys, with all of our decorations, and to think, we were all just boys,” Harry says.

“We were all just boys.”

Harry served on the West Vancouver Memorial Library Board for ten years, as chair for two of those. “I’ve always had an affinity for librarians,” he explains. “Librarians, miners and seamen.” The seed was sown at age four, when the local librarian rescued him from the pub where his grandfather would take him. While she worked, Harry played on the library floor.

“So, I got interested in the library to get off the beer,” he jokes.

The District of West Vancouver has benefitted from Harry’s service on the Awards Committee, the Art Museum Advisory Committee, and as a perennial volunteer for the Harmony Arts Festival.

Born and raised in Thornliebank, Scotland, Harry Greenwood joined the sea cadets in Glasgow at the age of 16 and became proficient in all aspects of visual signals, including morse code. This enabled him to join the navy in 1942 and participate in the war effort. “My grandfather was a sea captain on the ocean liners,” Harry says. “As boys, my cousins and I sailed with him on his ketch to Norway and to Iceland.”

After completing training as a signalman, Harry was drafted to the deep sea rescue tug, HMS Stormking and later, HMS Jaunty. The rescue tugs escorted convoys and towed ships that had been severely crippled but not sunk by U-boats.

The Jaunty was assigned to prepare for the June 1944 D-Day landings and perform rescue missions. “It was chaos on that day and we survived when many others didn’t,” says Harry. They stayed until November,

Photos provided

performing clean-up operations before returning to North Atlantic escort and rescue missions.

After VE Day, the Jaunty was assigned to South East Asia to support the British presence in this unsettled part of the world. Following this, Harry received his service discharge and returned to Glasgow to work on his university studies before immigrating to Canada in 1951.

After brief stints in Montreal and Toronto, Harry settled in Hamilton, working as an apprentice machinist with the Stelco corporation. This would shape his future.

His father had been part of the Labour Party in Britain and this influenced Harry, who became a member of the United Steelworkers of America union. He took courses to learn about the union process and took on union roles. Over time he distinguished himself as a capable contributor and became union secretary. He was elected to the Hamilton and District Labour Council, ultimately serving as its president for five terms.

Requests from community organizations resulted in Harry serving as a director on the Canadian Institute of Public Affairs for three terms, on the Academic Advisory Board for McMaster University, and as chair of the Long Term Planning

Harry as governor of Mohawk College presenting a graduation award.

March /April 2021

PAGE 9

COMMUNITY PERSONALITY

Harry and Rose.

Committee for Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology where he also served as board governor and vice-chair.

While serving the interests of steelworkers, Harry also edited the awardwinning steelworkers’ newspaper, Steel Shoots, from the 1960s to the 1980s.

Harry has always been drawn to world causes: as a young man it was the ‘ban the bomb’ movement and later he attempted to draw whatever attention he could to the anti-apartheid cause in South Africa.

Being involved in Paul Tutsch various organizations meant attending multiple national and international conferences and conventions. Over the years, these events have afforded Harry the opportunity of meeting Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, Nelson Mandela, Fidel Castro, Hubert Humphrey and Jimmy Carter, a man for whom he has deep respect. “Carter is a humanist,” he explains. He also met Pierre Trudeau, John Munro, Ed Broadbent, Stephen Lewis and more recently, Justin Trudeau.

Harry relates a story about a visit to Cuba. “I am aware that this is not a Christian country,” he said to Castro. “So why do you have a statue of Jesus Christ at the entrance to the harbour?” Fidel answered:

“

“It’s at the exit.”

Amazingly, Harry still found time for a private life. He and Rose Marie, a Hamilton girl, whom he met at a book launch, have been married for 63 years.

“I was drawn to Rose because she is a person of conviction and believed in representing principles fearlessly,” he explains.

In 1992, after retirement, Harry and Rose moved west to Squamish to be close to their only daughter, Jill, who was the director of marketing for Tourism Whistler. Harry joined the Legion, served on the advisory board of the Capilano College Squamish Campus and was instrumental in forming ElderCollege. But the Greenwoods missed city life so, six years later, they moved to West Vancouver.

Paul Tutsch has known Harry for over 20 years. “We served on the library board together and I was impressed with his common sense, honesty, diplomacy and humour,” Paul says. “We became friends and over the years I’ve looked forward to our regular lunches and Harry’s compelling life’s stories that are always peppered with humour. His memory for events, names and dates, to this day, is remarkable. One of the main components of my very fortunate life is my friendship with Harry.”

When asked about his daughter, Jill, Harry brims with pride for her accomplishments and the person she is. “To the world Harry is quite the force,” Jill says.

“For me, he’s my dad and I have very fond memories from childhood. When he traveled for business (which was often), he would of course telephone, but he would also always send me postcards from wherever he was, and in exchange I would write him letters, addressed simply to his name, the hotel name, and the city he was in.

And they always miraculously made their way to him! Even though he was away from home a lot, he made sure that I knew he was always thinking of me.”

In May, 2019, Jill accompanied Harry to the 75th anniversary ceremonies of the allied forces’ landings in Juno Beach. “Harry is often referred to as a hero because of his service in WWII. Indeed, that is probably true. But my dad is also my personal hero, always there for me no matter what, supporting me, guiding me, and most of all, unconditionally loving me.” Their visit can be viewed on YouTube. (Google search Air

Canada: Return to Juno.)

In a recent interview, Harry was asked what he saw for the future of the world. He responded in his customary manner – with a story: “A British delegate to the United Nations during its formation in 1942 was asked what he foresaw for the future of the UN and he said he hoped that one day a mother will look out of her kitchen window and see children of all races, all colours and all creeds hopping and playing in a large green meadow. Well, that is my vision, too, and that is the way the world should be.”

“...I was impressed with his common sense, honesty, diplomacy and humour .”

Harry with daughter, Jill, at Juno Beach in 2019.

Photo provided

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March /April 2021

ADVERTORIAL

Why moving into PARC’s retirement living is the smart choice W

ith the second wave of COVID-19 in effect, seniors might be nervous about moving. In reality, several privately operated independent retirement communities like PARC are safe havens, offering social connection, safety and support.

even have multiple “Safer Choice” options for in-person visiting with family and friends, like the PARC Family Eatery (available to all North Shore PARC residents and families), PARC Family Meetup Centres and al fresco thermal dining tents.

Here are four reasons why the smartest time to move into a PARC Residence is now.

2. Residents are free to come and go. Residents are mobile and actively engaged in activities both within and outside the residence.

As PARC offers private independent living, we are not subject to regulations governing provincially supported long-term and continuing care homes. PARC’s communities follow the rules and guidelines set out by BC public health officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, just like everyone else.

1. It’s the safest choice. PARC communities have stayed completely COVID-free.

PARC has several levels of health-and-safety defence in place by default, including intensive sanitization and 24-hour staff support.

So, it wasn’t a stretch to step up protocols to protect residents from COVID-19. Residents

3. Moving doesn’t have to be a hassle.

Doing it all on your own, from decluttering to packing and hiring movers, can be stressful.

This is why PARC will connect seniors with a trusted “transition specialist,” to help oversee everything, including setup and unpacking for the new suite space.

4. Everyone deserves a vibrant social life.

Seniors living alone can lose meaningful social connections at the best of times. At PARC, neighbours and staff are part of the social bubble so you are never alone. PARC’s tightknit communities are keeping full calendars of activities, classes, dining events and more – so residents still enjoy a vibrant and independent lifestyle.

You’ve always been young at heart.

At PARC, we offer you a chance to recapture that sense of adventure and freedom you had in your youth. And as we enter a new vaccine phase, there’s never been a better time to come out of isolation and enjoy independent and comfortable living filled with activities, friendships and inspiration. Why wait? Explore the joys of parcliving.ca.

CALL NOW. Get 1-month free rent.

Because there’s more living to be done.

604.922.9888 | info@westerleighparc.ca 725 22nd Street, West Vancouver

March /April 2021

PAGE 11

ROSE LEPIN

TALKATIVE TEEN

Transferring schools during a pandemic

T

ransferring high schools is nervewracking. In my case, the move was very much voluntary. After three years in one place, grade 11 felt like the year of change. However, there was one little hurdle…a teensy weensy, itty bitty global pandemic. With the adjustments SD45 has had to make to accommodate the sheer volume of students in our three high schools, I knew my “new kid” experience would be unique.

Despite being in academic bliss these past five months, changing high schools at the moment, is a lonely experience. Students are expected to go to class and, once finished their school day (possibly as short as 90 minutes), they must immediately leave the premises. This is necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but it’s not fan-

tastic for a new student attempting to make friends. However, I remind myself how lucky I am that my senior year will hopefully be somewhat “normal,” a luxury the pandemic stole from the classes of 2020 and 2021.

Even with SD45’s safety efforts, in a building hosting 900-2000 people at a time, the virus will spread. If I could give any message to my fellow high schoolers, it would be the importance of mask-wearing. While the virus may not affect us as harshly as our older community members, we are still responsible for the health and safety of our peers. I write this article while quarantining at home after contracting the virus from a classmate in my Quarter 2 morning class.

At the moment, mask-wearing is not mandatory in first-block classes. Unfortunately,

some view this as a free pass to neglect care for classmates. I can only hope that my experience is an isolated one.

Please remember to be kind, extend a helping hand, and take the necessary precautions to keep fellow learners and community members safe. We are all in this together.

Rose, a grade 11 student at WVSS, has been telling community stories through the Beacon since 2018. She spends her time writing, singing in the District Honour Choir, taking excessive photos of her cat, and performing her duties as Miss Teen Greater Vancouver 2019-2021.

Photo provided Rose with WVSS science teacher, Jerry Espenhain, smiling through their masks!

Enjoy the Silk Purse during spring BY

Ann Frost

I

t’s spring again and our local arts and culture organizations continue to provide innovative and exciting ways to create access to arts and culture events. The staff at the West Vancouver Community Arts Council at our beloved Silk Purse are very much involved in exactly that.

The Distant Together monthly online concert series continues this spring with an uplifting concert on March 25, featuring

accomplished performers Karen Lee Morlang on piano and clarinetist Julie Begg.

Talented and versatile, they will perform a programme ranging from opera to jazz.

And yes, the Silk Purse Gallery is open!

A series of four-week art exhibitions are scheduled throughout the year featuring the inspiring works of local artists.

Cherry Blossoms: A Textile Translation, a much anticipated exhibition in April, will provide an enhanced experience by having accompanying on-line artist demos. Currently, all art openings are virtual. If you

miss the live event you can visit the Arts Council YouTube channel to view the recording at your leisure.

Thanks go to the many funders and Vancouver cello quartet.

Photo provided donors who have continued their support through these who continue to provide innovative, crechallenging times, as well as those who ative and exciting offerings. have signed up for virtual and livestreamed More information can be found at www. events. And warmest thanks to all the staff westvanartscouncil.ca.

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March /April 2021

CHRIS ADSHEAD

LOOKING BACK

Questions heard in Horseshoe Bay

“W

here’s the nearest gas station?” is a question often asked of Horseshoe Bay residents, while they work in their gardens or walk their dogs. It ranks right up there with, “How do I get onto the ferry?” and “Where can I park?”

Locals know that the nearest gas station is the Chevron on Westmount Road. But it was not always so. The first gas station was a Home Gas Station on Royal Ave, where Lalli Loves It is now located. It operated from the 1930s until 1958, when it was relocated to the corner of Bruce Street and Keith Road.

The owners of the Home Station were Arnold Clemis and his mother. The story goes that people used to leave their cars for

Home Gas, unknown photographer, 1935.

servicing before they caught the ferry. They thought that they were getting free parking, but never seemed to notice the extra antifreeze or replaced odd bits that were added to their bill! This station was taken down in 1964 when the “new” Ferry Terminal was constructed.

The next gas station was built in 1966 on what was then the Red and White Grocery Store site, at the east corner of Bay and Royal. After doing his apprenticeship there, John Aylward and his wife, Kory, ran it for many years. There was always an interesting range of vehicles being worked on, from American muscle cars to my own 1939 Citroen.

Originally a Texaco station, it was re-

Photo provided

branded as an Esso station in 1991. However, in 2002 it was closed and the site stood vacant for years before Galleries on the Bay was built. Johnny’s Automotive moved east to North Vancouver, where John still services cars on 1st Street.

So how do you get onto the ferry from the village? Whenever someone asks me this, I respond with, “Well, it depends on whether you are dropping someone off or wanting to drive on.” Pre-pandemic, around 10 million people passed through the terminal each year. That’s a lot of traffic – none of it wanted on village streets. Residents lobbied to stop vehicle access to the terminal from the village. This finally happened when the “new” ferry parking lot was built.

When I explain to drivers that they have to head back to the Caulfeild exit and return on the highway in order to drive onto the ferry, the news is not received with enthusiasm!

Parking has been an issue in the village dating back to the early 1930s. While the current ban on overnight parking by non-residents is part of the solution, it is not evenly enforced. The addition of over 150 new families moving into the condos currently being built, will exacerbate the problem. Now is the time to develop a new parking plan which will help both businesses and residents. It might just answer the proverbial question, “Where can I park?”

Esso Horseshoe Bay Gas Station, circa 1991.

Photo: Chris Adshead

2013 Sales Achievement Award 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019 Award of Excellence Winner MacDonald Realty Ltd. This communication is not intended to cause or induce breach of an existing agency agreement.

Call Franco for details of his comprehensive listing services.

March /April 2021

PAGE 13

Horseshoe Bay Local Area Plan BY

T

David Hawkins

he community planning and engagement process to prepare a Horseshoe Bay Local Area Plan (LAP) began in the spring of 2019 and is now in its fourth and final phase. Building on over 6,000 instances of engagement in Phases 1 to 3, from community events, visioning workshops, discussion cafes, online surveys, and video meetings, the draft LAP was released for public comment on January 28, 2021.

The goal of the LAP is to gradually guide positive change over the coming decades to strengthen Horseshoe Bay’s identity, livability, and success as a more complete community.

HSB sign, March 2021.

The draft LAP provides a range of planning policies and design guidelines to create a more vibrant village core, expand housing diversity for all life stages, enhance the public realm to be more inviting to residents and visitors alike, and improve mobility options for all transportation modes throughout the village.

Some of the specific community objectives the draft LAP responds to include: • Creating an engaging street-level commercial experience with more restaurants, cafes, local small-scale retail and service offerings, and a boutique grocery store; • Providing a real mix of infill and missing housing forms, like coach houses, triplexes, row-houses, and live-work units, as well as more single-level apartment living options in the village;

• Revitalizing the public realm with active laneways, street corner patios, mid-block connections between buildings, and public art that creates a sense of place and weaves through the village; and • Improving walking, cycling, transit, and driving connections, as well as increased on-street and off-street parking provisions for residents and visitors.

The LAP also has policies to respect and build on the area’s history and heritage, design with its unique slope and natural setting in mind, and encourage the ‘kooky’ atmosphere of West Vancouver’s only north-facing waterfront community through flexible and individual design.

The LAP aims to fulfill Horseshoe Bay’s Photo provided vision for 2041 to be a “charming and livable seaside community and a vibrant and welcoming destination village.”

After a full review of recent community input on the draft plan, a proposed plan is expected to be finalized, fully illustrated and presented to West Vancouver Council for consideration of adoption into the Official Community Plan later this spring.

To learn more about the planning process, explore materials released to date, and stay connected to this initiative, please visit www.westvancouverite.ca/plan-hsb.

David Hawkins is the Senior Manager of Community Planning and Sustainability for the District of West Vancouver.

LAP illustration.

distant t o g e t h e r V i r t u a l c o n c e r t s One-time-only live concerts By the best local musicians!

Streamed right to you!

Westvanartscouncil.ca

Supported by

Illustration: courtesy of West Vancouer District

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ANNE BAIRD

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March /April 2021

ANNE’S CORNER

Busby spreads his wings

an seagulls and people become codependent? Busby, James and I have crossed the line. Blame it on COVID, and restricted human interaction.

Recently, I had an early gym reservation. I got cracking. We’d been plagued by smokey fog, so it was “black as the Earl of Hell’s waistcoat,” as James would say. He was sleeping in. I left him a pot of coffee and drove to the community centre.

Busby? Nowhere to be seen. Too dark and too early. He’s grown accustomed to our human schedule. No longer the early bird that gets the worm, he waits for our shared breakfast. Why not? We’re a sure thing. He can count on a slice of wholewheat bread.

No need to fight over a stranded starfish at the crack of dawn.

Today was different. I was gone; James was nowhere to be seen. The community centre’s coffee shop had just reopened, and was eager to welcome everybody back.

I called James. “Meet me at the café! It’s open, and Sarah’s back. Two coffees and a slice of lemon loaf are waiting!”

“Be there in ten. Make it five.”

He was there in eight.

We socially distanced on the patio, slurping coffee and waving to any friends we recognized behind their masks. Suddenly, I spotted a friend I hadn’t expected.

Busby! It was impossible to miss him with his cracked beak and graying head. He waddled toward us staring greedily at our lemon loaf. Clearly, he expected his share. I tossed him a morsel. He gobbled it up, and opened his beak for more.

“How did he find us?” I wondered.

“Must have followed me,” said James. He fed him the last of his lemon loaf for being such a clever boy. “We should have called him Gulliver.”

“Gulliver?”

“Gulliver’s Travels!”

I described the incident on Facebook, and posted a photo of Busby feeding in front of the centre.

My daughter, Tracey, feared the worst.

“He’ll follow you everywhere now! Fly after your car. Stalk you in the supermarket.”

I wouldn’t put anything past him. I imagined him perched on the hood of my elderly

car, Squeaker, hitchhiking to the church picnic. He has a sure instinct for food sources.

I’ve never driven a Rolls Royce or Mercedes with their unmistakable hood ornaments. But I do have a gull. What about a live seagull hood ornament? We could rechristen Squeaker “The Gulliver!”

How cool is that?

Join Karen Fowlie (vocal/guitar), Terri Breeze (bass), Mal Temple (drums), Owen Thomas (electric guitar) and Mike Hurst (keyboards) for this pre-recorded live concert Wednesday Mar 8, 2021 at 5:00pm PST / 8:00pm ET. You will hear songs from Sarah McLachlan, Joni Mitchell, Shania Twain, Sylvia Tyson, Loreena McKennitt as well as “Moment in Time”, one of Fowlie’s Originals.

The chat room will be open before and after the show.

March /April 2021

35 Kelvin Grove Way, Lions Bay

430 Bayview Rd., Lions Bay

PAGE 15

6538 Marine Dr., Horseshoe Bay 6269 St. Georges Cres., Gleneagles

LD

LD

SO

$725,000

$1,699,000

SO

$2,418,000

$6,880,000

Build your dream home on this rare development lot amongst the prestigious properties in Lions Bay’s most desirable neighbourhood, Kelvin Grove. This sunny 10,048 sf parcel of land boasts sweeping views of Howe Sound and a friendly community. Water, sewer & storm drainage at lot line.

Beautiful ocean views from this 3 bdrm / 2 bthrm / 2315 SF partly renovated West Coast Modern home in Lions Bay. Set on a private 17,828 SF lot and surrounded by lush forest with unobstructed south west views of Howe Sound. Walk to 3 beaches, trails, marina, school, café, store & transit.

This West Coast modern Horseshoe Bay home offers a bright open plan with floor- to-ceiling windows, high ceilings and natural materials throughout. Offering 3 bdrms upstairs, entertainers’ kitchen/living on the main and a 1 bdrm legal suite below. Walkable to transit, school, golf course, parks, beaches, trails, restaurants & shopping.

This luxury Gleneagles estate boasts stunning panoramic ocean, island & mountain views from every room in the home. Featuring 5 bdrms / 7 bthrms / 10,000 SF on a 16,500 SF lot with floor-to- ceiling windows, grand-scale principal rooms and an expansive indoor/outdoor pool and entertaining space.

4619 Caulfeild Dr., Caulfeild

170 Oceanview Pl., Lions Bay

304 - 3187 Mountain Hwy., Lynn Valley

6182 Nelson Av., Gleneagles

LD

LD

SO

LD

SO

$2,300,000 This beautiful 6 bdrm / 3 bthrm / 3277 SF Hegler built home sits on a 14,424 SF sunny corner lot in Caulfeild.

Main level features a family room off the kitchen, large bright living/dining room, a separate wing with its own entrance, rec room and 2 bedrooms. Upstairs boasts 4 more spacious bedrooms including a huge master retreat.

SO

$1,300,000 This 3 bdrm / 2 bthrm / 1642 SF Lewis Post and Beam home sits on a quiet, child friendly cu-de-sac and offers tons of potential. Featuring a large 22,651 SF foot lot with a level front yard and garden, large sundeck and lots of parking for cars, RVs and boats. Easy walk to the bus, beach and store.

$799,000 This beautifully renovated corner penthouse unit in Lynn Terrace II boasts the best floor plan in the complex. 2 bdrms + office / 2 bthrms on over 1,200 SF. The over-sized living room features a gas fireplace and opens onto a large balcony. The modern kitchen features vaulted ceilings, skylights and a separate dining area with a second balcony.

$2,499,000 This charming 3 bdrm / 1 bthrm Gleneagles home sits atop a 14,375 SF lot with amazing ocean, island and mountain views. The upper end of Nelson avenue is one of the most private enclaves in the area and truly captures the serene & tranquil qualities of Howe Sound.

Your Realtor for Life.

60 4. 315 . 2645 | K imTaylo rHo mes . c o m

In the 11 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 is in the same classroom at Gleneagles that we were in - 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.

Cheers,

PAGE

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March /April 2021

$1,950,000

$1,350,000

519 Harry Road

1017 Goddard Road

Sunshine Coast | 4,016 Sqft, 3 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms

Sunshine Coast | 1,407 Sqft, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms

Stunning character home in Bonniebrook. On a half acre that is ideal for multi family living this 4000 sq ft home has energy efficient features with a natural gas hot water system, infloor heat, appliances, fireplace, hot water on demand and a heat pump. Spacious 3/4 bedrooms with balconies in the main house and an open concept kitchen, living and dining room that is complemented by a 1000sqft concrete patio. Adjacent to the home is a self-contained 1000sqft guest suite with its own tandem garage.

Welcome to the Parkland community. Surrounded by trees this elegantly updated beauty comes with quartz countertops, gas range and gas fireplace. Master bedroom on the main, updated ensuite, walk in shower. The kitchen with walk in pantry and adjacent oversize patio, greenhouse, storage shed, and meticulous fenced backyard. Big bright windows in an open concept dining and living room. Upstairs, two big bedrooms and bathroom. Lots of parking, walking trails, lead to the recreation centre. Walk to shopping and medical services.

$2,300,000

$1,250,000

546 Marine Drive

512 Marine Drive

Sunshine Coast | 3,660 Sqft, 6 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms

Sunshine Coast | 1,612 Sqft, 2 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms

Marina House is an iconic heritage style waterfront home in the heart of Gibsons Landing. This elegant estate house, that has been impeccably updated with charm and character, started construction in 1919. What once was a successfully run B&B, is now a private family estate. With 6 bedrooms in total, a separate three bedroom living area is ideal for families interested in intergenerational investing together. Outdoor living areas lead to a trail to sandy beaches and the harbour marina.

Waterfront living offers this prestigious lower Gibsons gem with 1612 sq.ft that has been tastefully updated and renovated from tip to tail. The main floor living, dining, kitchen, nook and solarium are open concept. 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms on split levels. Ground level access with garage. This private home comes with the benefits of a strata building. Happily wander to any number of our cozy coffee shops, delicious restaurants, art galleries or the local brewery.

The best the Sunshine Coast has to offer

604.740.2050

Personal Real Estate Corporation | RE/MAX City Realty - Sunshine Coast Medallion Club Member - Top 10% in Greater Vancouver

www.kristadempster.com / Facebook / Instagram

“I would like to take a moment to thank all my 2020 clients. It is because of you that I am so honoured to be awarded with the MLS Medallion Club Award for 2020.”

- Krista I

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MEDALLION CLUB MEMBER The Medallion Club is awarded to the top 10% of all Greater Vancouver Real Estate Board top producers and is based on an agent’s combined MLS® listings, sales, and dollar volume.