West Vancouver Beacon | May / June 2025 | Edition 68
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.
reside in the house today. This 4 bdrm / 3 bthrm / 2833 SF residence is situated on a private treed lot set back far from the street at the end of a flat, quiet cul-de-sac. Well maintained and lots of updates in this beautiful home. Enjoy the peace
Contributing writers and photographers for The Beacon do not receive compensation and retain full rights to their work. Full or partial reproduction of 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.
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OLINDY PFEIL
Community stories at the library
n May 13, 25 local authors will be celebrating the launch of their new book at the West Vancouver Memorial Library.
West Vancouver Stories: The Wellness Edition is the third anthology in the Community Stories series. Over the course of three weeks, 25 writers (aged 11 to 87), gathered at the West Vancouver Memorial Library to explore wellness in all its dimensions.
The wellness theme provided the springboard for examining what brings us joy, what contributes to mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional wellness, and how we combat isolation. A true collaboration between community members and organisations, this anthology documents the hopes, dreams, and experiences of everyday citizens.
A 2022 Angus Reid Institute study underscores the vital role of belonging in wellbeing, revealing that Canadians with a strong sense of connection report significantly higher life satisfaction. This anthology embodies that idea, serving as both an archive and a testament to the power of shared experience to bridge divides and build a more connected future.
The stories in this collection speak of resilience, courage, and creativity. They highlight the transformative power of community and the importance of truly listening to one another – of finding stillness amidst the noise. They celebrate the North Shore’s spectacular beauty and rich cultural life,
reminding us that wellness lies in nurturing what uplifts and brings us joy.
These accounts of rediscover ing passions, overcoming chal lenges, and forging meaningful connections reveal that our col lective wellbeing begins with the simple act of sharing our lives. Our health, our environ ment, and our relationships are deeply intertwined.
Storytelling has long been a powerful medium for building community. It creates spaces where individuals can share experiences, foster empathy, and transform isolated ‘I’s into a collective ‘we.’ Wellness is not just an individual pursuit, but a communal journey.
The contributing authors are Anne Baird, Anne Labelle, Brenda Morrison, Bruce McArthur, Chantal Cameron, Daina Zhu, Debra Dolan, Evelyn (Stephens) Dawson, Hestia Li Ang, Inga Pedersen McLaughlin, Jenifer Dong, John Weston, Kate Huang, Kim Kiok Wong, Laurisse Noël, Lindy Hughes Pfeil, Lorraine Zander, Maja Rusinowska, Marianne Pengelly, Monica Higgins, Patricia L. Morris, Shideh Khorasheh, Victoria Klassen, Wendy Wilkins Winslow, Yasmin Vejs Simsek.
This project was partially funded by The West Vancouver Foundation’s Neighbourhood Small Grants program. The book
launch will take place at the library on May 13, from 6-7:30 pm in the Welsh Room. All are invited to this free event, but registration is required (and limited). Meet the authors, hear them read excerpts from their stories, and enjoy nibbles and drinks graciously provided by the library. Copies of the book are available at the library and can be purchased on Amazon. They can also be requested through your favourite local bookstore. Bring your copy of the book to the launch event for authors to sign. Join us in celebrating storytelling and community. For additional information about the book and its writers, or to register for the book launch please visit WestVanStories. com.
Would it be spring without songbirds?
BY Penny Nelson
Birds are an integral part of our outdoor experience. The soothing effects of birdsong are well-known, enhancing livability and connecting us to nature.
Since the 1970s, bird populations have plummeted by almost 30 billion. Some of the causes of this plummet are window and vehicle strikes, predation by outdoor cats, loss of habitat, plastic and light pollution, and pesticide and rodenticide usage. Climate change and its many challenges have also affected birds, especially migrating birds who rely on water, food, and habitat on their long journeys.
In the face of this crisis, is there anything we can do to help? Yes, indeed! We can make our homes and yards safer for birds by creating bird-friendly gardens that provide food, water, and shelter. This is especially important in cities.
Studies show that urban gardens that are as natural as possible can create the biodiversity nature needs. It’s why Professor Doug Tallamy, American entomologist, ecologist and conservationist, founded “Homegrown National Park” – the idea that each of us can create a national park in our own backyard. By converting just half our outdoor space into productive native plant gardens with healthy ecosystems, we can support the meaningful change birds and nature need.
Birds Canada has a useful plant selector for all zones (birdgardens.ca) and the Invasive Species Council of BC’s “Grow Me Instead” initiative has suggestions for native plants that look similar to non-natives, which is helpful for gardeners designing bird-friendly gardens.
An avoidable killer is tree work dur-
ing the nesting season (March to August). Scheduling work outside these months is a simple measure to protect birds. But not all birds nest in trees – some nest in shrubs or groundcover and noise or activity in the vicinity may scare parents away, leaving eggs and nestlings vulnerable. Before starting a garden project, take a moment to stop and observe. Do you see birds flitting in and out of a particular spot? If so, there’s likely a nest there and the area should be avoided (by law, active nests may not be disturbed).
It’s also vital that we make our spaces safe for birds. For example, outdoor cats kill more birds than any other human-caused threats in North America. Keeping cats indoors or restricted to a deck or catio will keep them safe from dangers and disease and keep more birds alive.
Windows are another major cause of bird deaths. According to Nature Canada, “Most collisions are with windows in individual houses, some from low-rise buildings, and less than one per cent from high rises and skyscrapers. The problem only gets worse for birds that migrate each fall and spring.” Products that make windows and glass deck panels visible to birds are a good first step and they’re readily available in stores such as Wild Birds Unlimited in North Vancouver.
Turn off outdoor lights at 10 pm or limit lighting to the essentials and directed downwards. Dark nights are not only good for birds, who can get confused by city lights as they migrate, they’re also good for human wellness.
Ditch the poisons! Insects and caterpillars are important foods for birds and it is well-known that rat poison is deadly for them, and also for pets and other wildlife.
It may take a while, but your bird-friendly
garden will reward you with more birds, butterflies, berries, blooms and bumble bees, thanks to the biodiversity you’ve created. Bird friendly Lions Bay’s fourth Communi-
ty Nature Event on World Migratory Bird Day takes place on May 10 from 9:15 am to 1 pm in the village hall on Centre Road. Details are on their website: lionsbaybirdfriendly.ca.
The trailhead garden in June 2023.
Photos: courtesy of Val Morton
Pine white on yarrow at the trailhead in Lions Bay. Bombus flavifrons on red currant in Lions Bay.
NBRIAN POMFRET
Spring is in full swing
ow that we’re in the grip of spring, there are so many things to tend to in your garden: clipping off leggy growth, staking to support taller plants, weeding of course, sowing seeds and, as always, taking care of your lawn. By now – or shortly – early flowering shrubs will have finished, and it is time to prune, remembering the golden rule to prune only just after flowering is finished. Please don’t shape your forsythia into a ball. Very tacky! The same goes for other flowering shrubs; they can look so graceful when left but controlled.
Get your tomato plants in the ground after May 15. Soil condition is crucial so amending the soil with well-rotted compost provides lots of yummy nutrients. Apply balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season like 10-10-10 or
Many of you, by now, will have received a Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). When this shows up in your mail don’t shove it in a drawer, or worse, panic. Instead, calmly open it and carefully read what it says.
Among the many things an NOA is, is an acknowledgement of receipt of your tax return. It advises you if you owe any further income tax or the amount of a refund. It also confirms whether your return was accepted as filed or if any corrections or changes were applied. Lastly, it provides a summary of your
JOE GARDENER
5-5-5. Don’t forget to pinch off those pesky side shoots to redirect energy. Water only to the base, never on foliage.
If you are starting new balcony containers (and pots in general), commercial potting mix is good but I recommend adding about 20% soil amender, like Sea Soil product, for added nutrient value. Please consider the location. There are plants that will perform well with or without sun, so ask a nursery person for advice before you buy that gorgeous plant that may not be suitable for the chosen spot.
In June, pick off your rhododendron’s spent blossoms so it can get busy regenerating new buds. They like their ‘feet’ kept damp to perform well, with a nice organic mulch. You can mix in the spent blossoms with the mulch.
And your roses should now be showing their stuff. Black
income, deductions, credits, and net income, something that is often requested for incometested services.
If you are still able to contribute to an RRSP, the NOA will summarize your contribution limit for the year. It will also indicate the amount of any excess contribution that you may have inadvertently made (take steps to correct this immediately). There may also be information on the balances of applicable Home Buyer’s Plan and Lifelong Learning Plan loans. The NOA no longer includes TFSA contribution information. You must log in to CRA My Account or call the CRA for
spot on leaves can be the result of a stressed plant. Steer manure is a great source of nutrients, maybe covered with a bit of bark mulch to help preserve moisture. Roses like to be kept slightly moist. Water only at the base. Keep an eye on the spent blossoms and prune off just above a leaf node.
With watering restrictions likely, keep your lawn at 2.5 inches so as not to stress it out too much. Fertilize up to the end of June, then nothing during the summer months.
A favourite plant for shade is Epimedium (bishop’s cap), a lovely ground cover with a nice spike of a flower, or Hosta ‘June’ with a mild variegated leaf pattern. Enjoy the summer!
this information. If you do go online, check if you have any uncashed cheques. CRA says there are $1.4 billion dollars uncashed. Government cheques can never be stale dated.
If you disagree with your assessment or reassessment, take steps at once. You have only 90 days from the date of the notice to register your dispute. You may choose to engage professional assistance with this.
The CRA suggests that you keep a copy of your NOAs and other related documents for at least six years from the date of the NOA. This is the time period that the CRA is allowed to review your tax return and verify
your information and transaction data. File it carefully with the tax return it relates to. With today’s e-file system, reviews of medical, travel and other receipts have become quite common. Do not ignore such written requests. Whatever your situation, your CRA notice of assessment shouldn’t be seen as something to fear. It may not always remind you of your unpaid taxes. Contrarily, you might be pleasantly surprised with a zero balance or even better – a refund!
Michael Berton is a retired financial planner living on the North Shore
MICHAEL BERTON DOLLARS AND SENSE
Stories of Belonging
Founded in 2013 as a “good news” publication, the Beacon’s goal has always been a simple one: to showcase our community – its natural beauty, as well as its people. We highlight the voices of those who live here and the accomplishments of our schools and residents.
We are delighted to be collaborating with the Panther Pressers, journalists from Irwin Park Elementary. Irwin Park values inclusivity, and each journalist wanted to share their personal experience of discovering community and a sense of belonging within it.
Cindy, Grade 7
Language helped my sense of belonging I came to Canada from China in 2022. When I first arrived, I felt nervous. This was a very different place from my home in Beijing, and I spoke very little English. At school, when I sat awkwardly at my desk listening to the teacher, all I heard was a swirl of strange sounds. My teacher, Mrs. Macdonald, introduced me to every Mandarin speaker in class. Many of my classmates didn’t speak Mandarin, but they did speak another language. When they had first arrived in Canada, they felt like this too. While learning English with the help of my teachers, my feelings slowly started to change. The more English I learned, the more friends I made. Finally, after two years, I felt like I truly belonged at Irwin Park. Now I translate for the new, nervous Mandarin-speaking students who aren’t yet fluent in English, and I help them feel like they belong too.
Ava, Grade 6
Friendship helped my sense of belonging When I moved from Australia to Canada three years ago, everything in my life changed. I’m usually a pretty positive per-
son, but when my dad told me we were moving, I cried so much. I didn’t want to leave my friends and especially my grandparents. When I started school in Canada, I didn’t feel lonely for long. I made friends with girls in my class and even met my best friend. We started having tons of fun with playdates and sleepovers. Over time, some friends moved on, and a few friends stayed. For me, I learned that friendships could come and go, but close friends really helped my sense of belonging at school. Choir has also helped Irwin Park feel like home. It’s fun being part of a special group that loves the same thing and works hard together. Having friends made all the difference to me and helped me find my place at Irwin Park.
Jun, Grade 6
Diversity helped my sense of belonging I left South Korea three years ago, in grade 4. I felt excited to go to a new country, but I knew nothing about Canada. When I arrived, I was very ill and was struggling with jet lag. So far, I wasn’t a fan of Canada. On my first day of school, I stood in a line and got introduced to a lot of Korean kids. It really surprised me that Irwin Park had so many other Korean speakers. In fact, there were kids from all over: China, Iran, Japan, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Turkey. This fact gave me hope when I was scared. There was one kid at school who I wanted to be friends with, but he only spoke English and Mandarin. After I learned a bit more English, I felt brave and tried speaking to him. We became friends right away. That was my moment: this was my school, and I belonged here.
Samantha, Grade 6
Contributing helped my sense of belonging I moved to Vancouver from Switzerland in
January 2025. It was a big change, but it felt good. On my first day of school, I felt shy and out of place. I had skipped a grade, so I felt like I wasn’t good enough. Finding a group of friends was taking time. My mom suggested that I get involved in different groups. I decided to try choir, the Leadership Club, the musical, and Panther Press. This helped me meet different kids of all ages and make
new friends. One day, I was walking down the hallway holding tons of books when I accidentally dropped them. Loads of kids from the different groups I was in scrambled around to help me. That’s when I realised that each extracurricular group was more than just a group; they had become my community.
B Y
Fri-Sat, May 23-24 at 10:30am Christ Church Cathedral Music In The Morning
Photo: courtesy of Ms. Ellwyn, Irwin Park Elementary School
Irwin Park Elementary’s grade 6-7 Panther Press journalists Jun, Ava, Samantha and Cindy.
More local voices
BY Lindy Pfeil
The next Local Voices presentations take place in May and June at the West Vancouver Memorial Library. In partnership with the West Vancouver Historical Society, these talks celebrate our community, as it was and is, through the stories of the people who live here.
On Wednesday, May 7, join renowned Skw xwú7mesh artist Halikium Wade Baker and urban planner Mary Tasi for The Hidden Journals, Captain Vancouver & His Mapmaker: A Coast Salish Family Story. They will talk about their international journey to uncover valuable documents, letters, and hand-written journals in their
quest to align this material with local ancestral knowledge of mapmaker Lieutenant Joseph Baker’s marriage into the Coast Salish Nation in 1792. Embedded in this conversation is the story of a woven family robe thought lost and then found in the Helsinki Museum.
On Wednesday, June 4, Mahshid Rezaei will present Finding Home: From Struggles to Belonging – Can We Ever Truly Find Our Place? Mahshid, a community planner, urban designer, and artist, will share the story of her journey to Canada, one full of unexpected twists. Alone in a new country, she found strength in the challenges and discovered a deep passion for building connections and supporting newcomers. Through her work with local North Shore govern-
ments and organizations, Mahshid channels her story of resilience and creativity to help others feel at home and thrive in their new lives. As an artist, she believes that art, much like community, has the power to heal and inspire change.
Local Voices takes place in the Welsh Hall at West Vancouver Memorial Library on Wednesday, May 7 and June 4 from 6 – 7:30 pm. The talks are free, but registration is required, as space is limited. For more information, contact the library at 604.925.7403 or at info@westvanlibrary.ca. Register online through the library events page.
New pelvic health clinic opens
BY Gail Ziegelmeier
Registered Nurse Maureen McGrath has built a life around family, adventure, and care of others. She raised her children in picturesque West Vancouver, in an environment filled with nature’s wonders. They hiked the North Shore trails, skied its mountains, and swam and boated in Eagle Harbour, where they are active members of the yacht club.
Maureen started her career at Lions Gate Hospital as the clinical resource nurse in the maternal/child program. Then, while working with obstetrician/gynecologist Dr. Stephen Kaye in North Vancouver, she obtained
certification as a nurse continence advisor through McMaster University.
Maureen noticed a critical gap affecting a woman’s ability to be active or intimate, specifically in the treatment of urinary incontinence and pelvic floor disorders. Drawing from her 17 years of experience as a nurse continence advisor and sexual health educator, Maureen knows only too well the silent struggles many women face. They are often unaware that evidence-based treatments exist for intimate health issues. The wait times to see a specialist can be months to years leading to isolation, depression, infection, and even divorce.
Determined to make a difference, Maureen has taken a bold step forward, establish-
ing a dedicated Urinary Incontinence and Pessary Clinic in North Vancouver. The clinic will offer personalized assessment and treatment plans for urinary incontinence in both men and women, including bladder retraining, pelvic floor assessment and lifestyle modifications as well as the Contino device fitting. Additionally, for women with pelvic organ prolapse – a condition that affects nearly 50% of women over the age of 50 – she will provide pessary fittings, a non-surgical solution to support the pelvic organs and improve quality of life.
While the service is not covered by MSP, many extended health plans provide cover-
age for pessaries and other treatments. Patients may selfrefer.
“With the right care and support, pelvic health conditions can be effectively managed, significantly improving a person’s quality of life,” says Maureen. “My goal is to create a comfortable space where patients feel empowered to seek help and find real solutions.
I hope to inspire more conversations, break stigmas, and ultimately improve the quality of life for countless women.”
To learn more about the service or book an appointment, email Maureen at maureenmcgrath.janeapp.com or call or text 604-765-9287
Photo provided Maureen McGrath.
Photo: courtesy of Farhad Rahgozar Mahshid Rezaei will be sharing her story of belonging at the library on June 4.
Dinner on the Dock returns in July
BY Shane Austin
Two summers ago, I was walking with my wife and young son to our boat in Sewell’s Marina, when we spotted something unusual. I grew up on the North Shore and have made the walk to Horseshoe Bay public pier countless times; it is the centrepiece of the bay and is full of life in the summer, with a constant stream of foot and boat traffic at all hours of the day. But on this day, things were especially lively. The dock was buzzing with activity – being set up for some kind of seemingly grand event.
of this.” Eighteen months later I got what I wished for. I am proud to now serve my community as a member of Station 1 and excited to be a part of Dinner on the Dock 2025.
As we idled out of the marina, we spotted a stage and dining tables covered in white tablecloths reaching from one end of the pier to the other. Was it a wedding? Some sort of community celebration? We were puzzled and intrigued.
When we returned from our afternoon on the water, the dock had been transformed. White tents and warm lights filled the pier, and the merry sounds of revellers echoed through the bay. My wife and I went over to find out what was happening.
The event was Dinner on the Dock – a fundraiser for the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue Station 1, and I immediately thought: “Wow, I want to be a part
Since the first dinner in 2014, the event has evolved into a staple of the West Vancouver social calendar. I have heard it referred to as “the party of the summer,” and the event remains a vital fundraiser for Station 1. The Station and the 45 volunteer members who crew the two dedicated rescue vessels 24/7, 365 days of the year cannot fulfil their mission without first fundraising the $300,000 annual budget to meet operational costs. We at Station 1 are tremendously grateful for the generous financial support of the community in which we serve.
We respond to all kinds of emergencies in the Howe Sound region, and it is imperative that we be able to respond quickly. Therefore, it is a prerequisite that our members live within 15 minutes of the pier, so the members of Station 1 are intimately local and Dinner on the Dock gives us a fantastic opportunity to meet with and express gratitude to members of our community, partners, and supporters.
Since joining Station 1, I have felt my already deep connection to Horseshoe Bay and Howe Sound grow to a level I could not have imagined when I was walking
down to our boat that summer. When I volunteered with Station 1, I was drawn in by the excitement of performing an ocean rescue, but now I see that I have also gained an incredible sense of ser vice and community. This is what all our members share, regardless of who they are outside Royal Canadian Ma rine Search and Rescue. We look for ward to sharing those values, along with great food, live music, and of course countless stories with you on Thursday, July 10.
The event usually sells out quickly, so get your tickets early. For ticketing information scan the QR code or follow Station 1’s Facebook page for updates.
Dinner on the Dock.
Photo provided
Shane Austin, happy RCMSAR volunteer.
DCHRIS ADSHEAD LOOKING BACK
A very special car
id you know that there are many vintage vehicles tucked away in West Vancouver garages? This is a story about one of them.
Growing up in the UK I was fascinated by French culture. And their vehicles seemed so much more interesting than the 1950s and ‘60s British cars that I was used to. So, when I visited Europe as a student I returned with two souvenirs: French Dinky Toy models of a Citroën Traction Avant (TA) and a red 2CV. I promised myself that I would one day have a real version of each of these vehicles.
When I moved to Vancouver, I joined the Citroën Car Club and attended some of their meetings. In their January 1976 magazine I saw a rather expensive, recently imported, 1939 TA for sale. My wife and I drove to Everett to check it out. It was in good condition, ran beautifully and was perfect for us.
The seller had visited Europe to source vintage cars which he planned to resell in the US. This TA was his first purchase.
Apparently, the original owner had bought it a few months before World War II broke out and as the war progressed the advancing German troops were commandeering any vehicles that they could use. Anxious to save his prized car, he hid it in a barn covered with hay. It remained there until around 1946. When our American found it, he had it serviced, replaced the tires and headed out on the roads looking for cars to buy. By the time we entered the picture, he had sold his other cars but had kept the TA as he enjoyed driving it.
Well of course we loved the car and said we would get back to him, but here the story takes a twist. My wife wanted to buy it, but I
felt it was too much money given we had just bought a home. We called the seller back and told him, “No, but thank you.”
In May of the next year, while reading the Province newspaper, (I read the car ads before reading the news) I saw a well-priced Citroën TA for sale in Vancouver. I called the owner who told me it was a great car. It was parked beside a French Restaurant on Denman Street, and he suggested I “drive by and check it out.”
To our horror the sills were rotted through and the holes in the floor would have made it the perfect car for Fred Flintstone. The next day, at my wife’s insistence, I phoned our American in Everett. Yes, he still had the car but had decided to keep it. Oh!
That morning, however, he had just been offered some rare old airplane parts that he needed for his business. He stood to make a decent profit on them. So, in another twist of events, he said if we could get down that weekend we could cut a deal. Not wanting to miss this chance of getting the car, we went down. A further test drive confirmed our decision and we became the third owners of this 1939 11BL Citroën “Performance” model. Period advertising boasted of its 1911 cc engine providing outstanding performance – 0 to 60 mph in 28 seconds!
I still own the car – she has lived her entire Canadian life in West Vancouver, mostly tucked away in Horseshoe Bay. I have had many adventures with her, including being on a misty winter movie set where she was cast as a car used by German troops in a World War II movie – a case of full circle!
And I still have those two French Dinky Toys.
1939 Citroën 11BL and 1970 Citroën 2CV at Bastille Day in Whistler, 1989.
Photo: Chris Adshead
TA at Britannia.
Photo: Chris Adshead
Your photos could become part of West Van history
BY Marjorie Henderson
What if your photos—tucked away in old albums or buried deep in your iPhone camera roll—could help tell the story of West Vancouver for decades to come? We want them for the West Vancouver Memorial Library’s digital collection!
As the library celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, it’s time to revitalize our local history collection. Images of the people, places, and moments that have shaped our community from 1950 to today are essential to capturing the heart of West Van, and we need your help.
tion images from the iconic to the everyday. Think school performances, community festivals, cherished local businesses, and familiar landmarks like Horseshoe Bay and Dundarave Village. Or perhaps a sunsoaked concert at Ambleside Park, a fresh powder day skiing on Cypress Mountain, a weekend hike at Capilano Dam, a class photo from West Van Secondary, or a neighbourhood block party. These are the quintessential West Van moments we hope to preserve. If your photos exist only as slides, prints, or negatives, you can digitize them at the library’s Digitization on Demand Station and free introductory courses.
The library is looking for high-resolu-
Selected submissions will be added to digital.westvanlibrary.ca and featured in a fall 2025 exhibit in the library’s art gallery.
Contributors will also have a chance to win over $300 in Park Royal gift cards. The deadline to submit is June 30, 2025.
Addressing dry patches on lawns
BY Arash Asadian The Irrigation Guy
One of the most frequent causes of dry patches on lawns is inadequate watering. Uneven sprinkler coverage or shallow watering can lead to localized dry areas. Consistent, deep watering is crucial. Aim for approximately 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, depending on your climate and
soil type.
Soil conditions play a significant role. Compacted soil prevents water from reaching the roots, while soil that repels water due to organic matter buildup, hinders absorption. Aerate the lawn to alleviate compaction and apply a wetting agent to improve water penetration in repellent soils.
An excessive layer of thatch – dead grass and other organic matter – can also create a barrier, blocking water and nutrients. De-
thatch the lawn annually to help maintain healthy soil conditions.
Pet urine can cause brown spots due to its high nitrogen content. Water the affected area immediately to dilute the urine. Pests and diseases can damage the lawn’s root system, leading to dry patches. Identifying the specific pest or disease is essential for selecting the appropriate treatment.
Improper fertilizing and mowing practices can stress the lawn. Over-fertilizing can lead
Ready to share your memories? Learn how to digitize your photos at the library or submit them at wvml.ca/75.
to fertilizer burn, causing the grass to dry out. Follow fertilizer application guidelines and water thoroughly afterward. Mowing the grass too short can also stress it. Maintain a higher mowing height and use sharp mower blades. Areas exposed to intense sunlight dry out more quickly. Adjust watering schedules to help mitigate this. Addressing these common issues can restore a healthy lawn that will thrive all season long.
For further information: the irrigationguy.ca
Photo: courtesy of West Vancouver Memorial Library 1460.WVML
The Bookmobile, decorated with streamers and clowns, representing the West Vancouver Memorial Library in the 1984 Community Day Parade.
A “stick to it” story
BY Bruce McArthur
The Pacific Coast offers many beaches to explore, and I enjoy spending time on them, looking for items that can be repurposed. These beaches reveal the interplay between the natural world and humanmade or manipulated objects. The beaches and shoreline also highlight the cooperation that sustains our comfortable existence. Quiet moments by the shore allow me to delve into the unknown and imagine mysteries waiting to be solved. Beaches hold pieces of the past – some discarded waste, some lost treasures ripe for recycling, and some that can be transformed into representations of
Sthe present or visions of the future.
But my main focus is finding tree branches that can be shaped into walking sticks. Once cleaned and shaped, I leave them for others to enjoy. Over fifty have been completed, and only once did I find one returned to the ocean, then washed back up onto the shore.
These walking sticks not only recognize the bounty that the ocean delivers but also contribute to my imaginary connections with the past and future. I leave three finished sticks, shaped like the letter “A,” on a large granite block at the head of Ambleside Pier. To me, this symbol subtly refers to my family name, McArthur, and evokes the legend of King Arthur, whose sword was embedded in a stone, its removal a blessing.
Spring Fest
pring has been celebrated by different cultures in various ways, but it always revolves around beginnings – emerging from a dormant winter for a fresh start. Songkran Water Festival in Thailand involves drenching each other with fresh water, which signifies cleansing of body and mind. It is one of the biggest spring celebrations in the world and lasts about six days. Hindus in India celebrate Holi by throwing colourful powder. The vibrant colours represent hope and happiness.
Gleneagles Spring Fest West, perhaps not as grand as some of the other festivals, is nonetheless a special event for the West Van-
couver community where we spend the day celebrating spring with family and friends. When my family first moved to West Vancouver a few years ago, we could not wait to kick off our new adventures with the smell of spring in the air. Yellow daffodils brightened our way to the community centre as sunshine embraced us warmly. The centre was filled with visitors and the charming creations of local artists. We hustled and bustled through the busy crowd and a beautifully crafted scarlet clay poppy captured my attention. We then headed out, through the delicious smell of smoky barbecue, over to the putting greens at the Gleneagles Golf Course.
Strangers notice and take these sticks, and some magic or usefulness seems to occur for the new owners. I feel a warmth around the transformation of an item delivered by nature, evolving into something useful to humans, and perhaps even gaining a personality of its own.
Bruce McArthur is a retired construction worker who lives in a seniors’ cooperative in West Vancouver, adjacent to the elementary school he attended in grade one. This is excerpted, with permission, from West Vancouver Stories: the Wellness Edition. To read the rest of this story (and the other 24 stories written by local writers), find the book at the West Vancouver Memorial Library or on Amazon.
The annual family-friendly community event takes place on May 3 this year, between 10 am and 2 pm at the Gleneagles Community Centre (6262 Marine Drive, West Vancouver). Fun activities, cheerful
music, and scrumptious food will welcome spring. The event is free and does not require registration. Visit https://westvancouver.ca/events-meetings/gleneaglesspring-fest-west for more information.
Photo: Bruce McArthur
Newly-carved walking sticks left for passers-by to take at Ambleside.
Clay art poppy.
Photo: Jini Park
JINI PARK COMMUNITY EVENTS
ERingo: star of the downy woodpeckers
very spring, at dawn, a downy woodpecker arrived outside our apartment building. He flew to the old wooden telephone pole eight floors beneath us. Cracked and weathered, it teemed with tasty ants and insect delicacies. Yum.
After a quick snack, he began drumming on the pole with his sharp beak. Rat-a-tat-tat. Rat-a-tat-tat! You couldn’t sleep once he got started. We named him Ringo, after Ringo Starr, the Beatles’ iconic drummer.
Why did our Ringo do this? Because it was spring, of course. Like many other creatures at that magical time of year, he was desperate to attract a female.
Once a suitable lady accepted him, they sprang into action. They dug out a cozy nest in the trunk of one of the old trees in our neighbourhood and moved in together. After the female laid her eggs, the devoted parents took turns keeping them warm during the 12day incubation period. Once hatched, they
spent a further 18 days feeding the hatchlings, until they were ready to take off. What a job!
During this time, Ringo drove away interlopers with his drumming, and fierce displays of his powerful wings and determination to defend. He was leading the classic life of the downy woodpecker.
At summer’s end one year, the city, alarmed by a growing crack in the telephone pole, banded it with a wide swath of metal to hold it together till it could be replaced.
The following spring, when Ringo returned to drum for a mate, he discovered that the banded pole gave off a ringing, electronic sound that first frightened, then delighted him. His drumming intensified. His rock star gifts inspired him to ever-greater heights of drumming. He attracted spectators of all kinds, as well as a rich assortment of curious female downy woodpeckers. He settled upon one, and they began the usual cycle of romance and procreation. But his heart wasn’t
fully engaged. His true passion was reserved for the metallic ring of steel.
His greatest concert was when their fledglings took off from the family nest to begin their own life journeys. What a celebration of sound! The metallic drumming spilled into the air like music. I feared for his beak. How long could he keep this up without breaking it?
Shortly after that, he disappeared, never to return. I missed his morning drumming. I woke up at dawn every day, hoping to hear it. But I never did.
What became of him? Perhaps the last concert did break his beak. Perhaps he was no longer able to drum for a mate. To dig out a nest in a tree. To capture elusive insects, grubs, and worms to feed himself. Or a family.
But I shall never forget his last concert. It raised woodpecker drumming to art.
RIP Ringo. I miss you.
It’s not everyday you come across the perfect place to live. A place where refined comfort, convenience and stunning natural surroundings elevate the everyday.
Westerleigh PARC’s location is coveted for good reason. 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.
Come for a tour and see for yourself why life is simply better at Westerleigh.
ANNE BAIRD ANNE’S CORNER
Environmentalist leads by example
BY Patricia Bonillas Lizarraga
t just 16 years old, Mulgrave School student Lily YangLiu is making waves in the fight for environmental sustainability. She has earned accolades for her dedication and leadership. Her most recent accomplishment? Being named one of the Top 25 Women of Influence+ in Canada by Women of Influence+. This remarkable recognition highlights Lily’s passion and tireless work toward building a greener future.
Lily’s concern for the environment started when she was young. Growing up in Beijing, pollution-triggered asthma meant frequent hospital visits and even an asthma machine for home use. Lily explains: “As I got older, I realised that many people with similar problems can’t get the help they need and are even more affected by pollution.” This recognition highlighted the importance of taking action to tackle climate change.
After moving to Canada, Lily noticed that most schools teach environmental sustain-
ability in the higher grades, leaving younger students without the basic knowledge to look after the planet. She felt this lack of education would prevent future generations from truly caring about the environment. This concern prompted her to start collaborating with schools to develop a curriculum that integrates the topic of sustainability and to begin using social media platforms to inform and educate people about climate issues.
To tackle this challenge broadly, Lily’s efforts extend far beyond her Mulgrave School community. As a United Nations youth delegate and an active participant in organisations like Children First Canada, she advocates for global change while also leading locally. Through her role in Mulgrave’s Environmental and Sustainability Council, Lily has spearheaded initiatives that inspire meaningful action on pressing environmental issues. Her impressive portfolio of achievements has also led her to the world stage. In June, she represented Mulgrave at the Villars/WEF Summit in Switzerland, where she collaborated with global leaders on sustainability strat-
egies. Most recently, Lily attended the UN Climate Change Conference COP29, where she was invited to participate based on her exceptional contributions to environmental advocacy. Reflecting on this experience, Lily shared insights about the power of collective action, her role on a youth panel, and her frustrations with the limited inclusion of young voices in decision-making.
Lily’s work continues to break new ground. Her advocacy to improve sustainability education in schools led her to contribute to the development of Mulgrave School’s groundbreaking IB Systems Transformation Pathway, which aims to empower students to address critical issues like climate change and create meaningful impact. Lily’s accomplishments also include being named a finalist, along with her peers, in the esteemed Zayed
Sustainability Prize, an international competition that acknowledges impactful sustainability initiatives. Earlier this year, The Starfish Canada association named Lily one of the Top 25 Environmentalists under 25, adding to her numerous accolades.
From local initiatives to global advocacy, Lily YangLiu is shaping a future where environmental sustainability takes center stage. Her accomplishments inspire the broader community and demonstrate the extraordinary impact one young leader can have on the world.
Caulfeild
Lily at the COP29 Conference.
Photo: courtesy of Lily YangLiu
Art for the Arts
BY Kevyn Karimi
The Rotary Club of West Vancouver Sunrise (RCWVS) is bringing art and community together with Art for the Arts, an initiative that supports local arts programs while celebrating the beauty of West Vancouver.
At the heart of this initiative is the Morosan West Vancouver Legacy Collection, a stunning series of 15 oil paintings capturing some of the most iconic scenes from our community. These paintings were generously donated to RCWVS by the widow of the renowned artist Vojislav Morosan, ensuring that his work continues to inspire and make a difference.
These breathtaking pieces will be available for the first time at an exclusive live auction at West Vancouver Municipal Hall on May 16. Every purchase directly funds local arts initiatives, helping young artists, arts education, and cultural programs thrive. It’s a rare opportunity to own a
meaningful piece of West Vancouver’s story while making a real impact.
Art has a way of bringing people together, sparking inspiration, and preserving history. Whether you’re an art lover, a collector, or someone who believes in supporting local culture, Art for the Arts is a way to give back and be part of something special. For further information please email rotarywvs@gmail.com
Vojislav Morisan painting at Dundarave beach.
Photo provided Kevyn with Norma Morisan. Photo provided
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.
350 KELVIN GROVE WAY $2,390,000
Experience stunning ocean & island views from this 4 bdrm / 3 bthrm / 3213 SF home. Main level boasts a gourmet kitchen with eating area, elegant living spaces, & a spacious primary suite - all with access to three expansive decks. Complete with workshop and
1820 FULTON AVENUE $2,988,000 AMBLESIDE
This 5 bdrm / 3 bthrm / 2534 SF
5704 WESTPORT ROAD $2,998,000
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.
1202 120 W 2ND STREET $1,449,000 LOWER LONSDALE
Enjoy stunning views from this renovated 2 bdrm / 2 bthrm / 1179 SF home at the Observatory. Features include hardwood floors, A/C, open kitchen, private balcony, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Amenities: pool, gym. Steps to Shipyards, SeaBus, dining. Two parking stalls + storage.
803-1412 ESQUIMALT AVENUE $899,000 AMBLESIDE
This 2 bdrm + solarium / 1 bthrm / 1018 SF home offers southeastfacing ocean views, abundant natural light, and a flowing
405 TIMBERTOP DRIVE $1,799,000 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.
HORSESHOE
A shining example of elegance and exquisite style is the Hallmark of this “front row” Edenshaw home. On entry the beautiful decor is enhanced by gorgeous HW ooring throughout and 19 ft vaulted ceilings. This highly coveted “B” plan o ers a fully updated 3 bath, 4 bdrm layout w the rare main oor primary ensuite that a ords you a single level living option that is simply priceless. 3 more bdrms up w. optional 2nd primary make this layout extremely versatile. Gourmet kitchen with updated appliances, integrated dining/living area, laundry, family room w 2 FP’s on main plus 2 car garage & rare on grade walk-out garden patio unlike any other w upper balcony facing ocean, city & mountain views that go on forever!
Welcome to 4786 Meadfeild Court! This stunning home was comprehensively updated in recent years & boasts an understated elegance w. a practicality that is hard to overlook. On entry the residence features gorgeous hardwood oors, vaulted ceilings, custom gourmet kitchen w 6 burner WOLF gas range, new windows, new doors, 2 new gas burning FP’s, new bathrooms up and down Including main oor master ensuite, large rec room w the added bonus of a fully overhauled/updated plumbing & heating system that is simply superb! The bene ts of the beautiful interior nishing are equally matched by the south and west facing outdoor space & rear yard w. Perfect proximity to schools, shopping & recreation in one of West Van’s most desirable neighborhoods.
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.
Modern Westcoast classic in Upper Caulfeild! Fully renovated in 2021 this home is unlike anything else in the area. Vaulted entry boasts 16 ft ceilings enhanced by the extensive Stonework & Skylights that are signature design hallmarks in this unique concept build. Sitting a top 10,000 + sq ft lot, the 3,200 + sq ft house o ers 4 bdrm, 3 bath layout perfectly integrated w. principal O/D areas that enjoy the 360 dgr breathtaking views of mountain, city & ocean. Renos include but not limited to; Primary bdrm/ ensuite, kitch & appl, European oak wide plank HW, Eclipse sliding doors, triple-glazed alum windows/ doors, large cut porcelain tile, oat glass railings & bathrooms to round out this stunning modern transformation. Bonus studio/workshop. Steps from schools, shops & rec.
“ I give my assurance that, when it comes to the business of your present or future home, I will personally always be there to help you with the details and decisions of this important event in your life.” - Franco
CYPRESS, WEST VANCOUVER
Discover this 2,528 sq ft architectural gem, called ‘Palm Springs 2’ by the architect, A sanctuary that seamlessly blends indoor living with lush gardens and nature beyond. Every room exudes relaxed sophistication, illuminated by 8 skylights and oversized windows highlighting the verdant outdoors. 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 meticulously maintained home has seen extensive recent updates and is perfect for downsizing couples or small families seeking a single-story haven. This stunning residence checks all the boxes. Offered at $2,758,000
FURRY CREEK, WEST VANCOUVER
Gated OCEANFRONT sophisticated living in a premier marina and golf course community! This spacious 3378 sq ft, 3 bed, 4 bath home with loft & rec room offers elegance and functionality, Vaulted ceilings, 2-sided gas fireplace & crown mouldings elevate the homes sophisticated charm. Spacious ocean-view primary bedroom is a serene retreat and comes with a 5-pc ensuite. Updates include hardwood floors, plush carpet, roller shades & paint. Steps to kayaking and paddle-boarding. Just 13 min to village shopping, 20 minutes to West Van, 45 mins downtown, 50 mins to Whistler. Surround yourself with infinite views of mountains and an ocean of serene sounds of lapping tides and secluded elegance. A Dreamy lifestyle awaits. Offered at $2,028,000
CAULFEILD, WEST VANCOUVER
Nestled in a family-friendly Caulfeild neighbourhood, this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers 3,061 sq ft of comfortable living space. Just steps from Caulfeild Elementary School, it’s perfect for growing families. Enjoy sunny days by your private pool and the convenience of nearby parks, shops, and trails—all for $2,498,000
DUNDARAVE, WEST VANCOUVER
This meticulously maintained and coveted West end Corner unit at Stone-Thro is available—a luxury 2 / 3 bed, 4 bath townhouse in the heart of Dundarave. Part of an exclusive collection of craftsman-style homes, this bright end suite is steps from the West Van Community Centre, Seawall, Library, boutique shops, and transit. Designed for refined living, it features , soaring 8’11” ceilings, rich hardwood floors, and impeccable high-end finishes. The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s delight with premium appliances, ample storage, and a striking granite island flowing into a cozy family room with a second gas fireplace. French doors open to a sundrenched south-facing patio. Bonus:
of 2025. Offered at $2,358,000
FURRY CREEK, WEST VANCOUVER
Discover your dream WATERFRONT lifestyle! This luxurious oceanfront townhouse at Oliver’s Landing offers downsizing at its finest. Wake up to breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and glaciers, with direct seawall access from your private patio. Designed for quality and comfort, this home boasts high ceilings, in-floor radiant heating, durable Hardie siding, and a concrete tile roof. Enjoy exclusive amenities, including a recreation center with a 60’ lap pool, gym, sauna, and whirlpool. Perfectly located in a prestigious gated community, just 20 minutes from West Vancouver, 45 minutes to downtown, and 1 hour to Whistler—nature and convenience Offered at $1,948,000
