February 27, 2013
Billy Griffiths - PG'S Jamaican Takeout
Fans of Caribbean food have been watching and waiting patiently for PG'S JAMAICAN RESTAURANT to open in uptown White Rock. A little difficult to find but well worth the effort. Tucked away in the little alcove at the corner of Thrift Avenue and Johnston Road in a shop that up until recently was home to a personal trainer.
So come with us as we head to the islands.
BILLY welcome to White Rock, I know by the diners that I have seen on a couple of recent visits there are a number of people that are flocking to your new restaurant. First is this your first restaurant?
No my wife PAULINE and I had another Jamaican restaurant in downtown Vancouver at Nelson and Granville for a number of years. We were very happy there but in time the neighbourhood became very dangerous. The crime rate was going up, so we decided we would be going on.
So you came to White Rock directly from downtown Vancouver?
No our restaurant in Vancouver was operating from 1992-1997. We then move to Toronto for a few years. When we came back in 2005 we started to think about opening another restaurant if we could find the right situation and location.
So how did you end up choosing White Rock?
Well I had been coming out here for a few years to work and I thought "Too Much Sushi Mon!" I figured out quickly there was nothing like our food being presented to the residents of White Rock and Surrey, so after looking for some time this location came up. It took us a little longer to open than we planned but that happens sometimes with a restaurant. We are really looking forward to growing with the community. I think there are going to be more and more people moving here. Just look out my front window and you can see two new apartment buildings getting ready to open. This whole area is growing very quickly and we hope to be part of this growth.
Let's talk a bit about our menu.
Well we have the usual items you will find in a Jamaiican restaurant. Our meat and veggie patties are made fresh daily here on the premises. Everyday we make our rice and beans fresh. Of course we have jerk chicken, jerk goat and roti. We have a vegetarian roti along with our veggie patties.
You have n interesting selection of beverages (unlicensed)
Yes we have some soft drinks imported from Jamaica. I also notice you serve sour sop juice. I have read recently the sour sop fruit is being heralded as very effective in some forms of cancer treatment?
Well I have heard that too. In Jamaica we drink the fresh fruit because i helps with a lot of things to keep you healthy.
Tell me about ackee and salt cod.
Ackee is a fruit that grows in Jamaica. You must wait until it flowers, because if you were to pick the fruit before it is ripe and opens, and cut it with a knife the gas that escapes could kill you dead. Ackee and cod is the national dish of Jamaica.
All of your food looks so great, and the dishes I have tried including the vegetarian patties and Ox tail were incredible, What is your favourite food to eat at the restaurant?
Oh that is easy. I would like people to come in and try our Ox Tail. It is slow cooked in a special bled of spices and served with rice and beans and vegetables cooked in coconut music. It is delicious.
Well Billy thank you very much for taking the time to tell us a bit about your history. Two final questions.
Do you live in White Rock?
No my wife and I drive from out home in Coquitlam everyday. One day maybe we will move here.
How did you choose the name of the restaurant?
My wife's name is Pauline and our last name is Griffiths, so there you go we just chose the first two initials in her name.
"Come by and say hello. Have a taste of the Islands. Take a trip south without leaving home"....Billy Griffiths.
 The interior of the restaurant afford customers a small clean and inviting are to dine in.
PG'S JAMAICAN TAKE OUT
1387 Johnston Road (uptown) White Rock
Linda Lock - Cottage Paint
East Beach White Rock
Linda what exactly is "cottage paint?"
Cottage Paint is a clay based paint whose claim to fame is that you can paint it on almost any surface without any sanding, priming or stripping! Just wipe the surface clean and paint! It really isn't a "new" product, after all, Michelangelo used a very similar product to paint the Sistine Chapel!
It appears to me this is a very cost and time effective way to re-create that old fashioned farmhouse look on furniture, would you say that is a correct assessment?
Definitely! You can transform a tired old piece of furniture into something fresh and new for a fraction of the cost of replacing it!
If someone does not have the time or desire to refurbish a piece of their own furniture, for an additional cost would you be able to do the work for them?
I have been quite surprised at how many people want to do just that. I've already done several pieces for people who are just too busy and I'm sure that will be a major portion of my business.
You are an artist yourself. Tell us a bit about your arts history?
I have been a decorative painter for more than 30 years, travelling around the world teaching various decorative techniques, so it seemed a natural fit to partner up with a paint company in Toronto to develop this new line of paint. It really feels as though everything is working together to make this new venture a success!
You recently partnered up with another local artist Sherron Fairbarn on a couple of projects. Your WHITE ROCK'S BEST online portal has now gone into a hiatus.
What was your goal for the website? You also have a pair of beautiful chairs that you and Sherron created in your store. Tell me about the chairs. They truly are one of a kind original art pieces are they not?
 l-r Sherron Fairbarn - Linda Lock
My personal goal with White Rock's Best was to have fun working on the site (which I love) and make enough money to keep me off the streets! Unfortunately, we couldn't make it work well enough for us, so............next.........
I saw something like what Sherron has done with the chairs online and thought it would be too much fun to try it. Her work is amazing and somehow, putting it together with a useful piece of furniture, just makes it that much better! We hope to do more of these in the future - 8 are being reupholstered as we speak with artist's canvas - ready for their one-of-a-kind transformation!
 Sherron an artist herself pictured with her original work of art chair now on dislay at COTTAGE LIVING
Back to your store which is located on East/East Beach. Initially it would appear your market has a private/individual market. But could you see a
commercial application here, where you would be commissioned to come in and perhaps do an entire room or for that matter a revitalization of a cute beach cottage.
I have already been asked if that would be possible and of course the answer is YES! Why, have something in mind?
You are now taking reservations for classes at your beautiful boutique store. It appears in addition to the cottage paint classes you have at least one other art class scheduled. tell us about these classes.
I have very extensive Cottage Paint Basics classes which are on-going and these classes teach how to use all of our products. The goal here being that the homeowner can then tackle any project on their own with skill and confidence! As well, I have lots of interesting classes for making simple, yet beautiful, projects for home decorating such as floor cloths, candles, decorative cushions and accessories. It's been my experience that these classes go well beyond a finished project in that they provide a fun afternoon of creativity with like-minded people and the inspiration is very contagious!
I also get the impression you are a distributor for "cottage paint" correct?
Yes, my name and reputation are on this paint and we have big plans for marketing it around the world. Currently it is going full steam ahead in the eastern and southern states, we have a rep in Japan this month and I'm working with a wholesaler in Australia to get the line there. I will be attending lots of trade shows this year for hands-on demos and workshops and will be writing "how-to" books as well, which will really help promote the product.
I can see one of the benefits of "cottage paint" actually ties into recycling correct?
Yes one of the wonderful side effects of this product is the fact that we are reusing, re-inventing and restoring furniture that otherwise may end up in the landfill. Did you see that cute little rocker in the store when you were there? I found it on the side of the road this fall and it's now ready for "adoption" as a beautiful addition to any family home. There are countless old and tired pieces of furniture just waiting to be reborn!
Final question Linda. I understand the city of White Rock has finally decided to adopt something I have been advocating for over a decade to anyone that would listen, an actual White Rock Arts Walk along our promenade on the weekend. Artists of all disciples can display their creations and expose and hopefully sell their wares to the crowds that inhabit our promenades on weekends. As an artist what do you think about the this initiative and would you personally consider partaking in the Art Walk.
There definitely is an art scene but I think the Arts Walk that you suggested would go a long way to helping the artists get their work out there. I would love to participate and think how much more interesting a walk on the beach would be!
For more information on COTTAGE PAINTING the simple life (click here)
"Life Is A Highway"
...I want to ride it with you
January 10, 2013
The recent holiday season is a time of loving, caring and spending time with your loved ones and family. Divorce or separation changes all of that. Your family and subsequent family life are blown to pieces. How do you pick up the pieces? Well a company and lady on the Semiahmoo Peninsula just might be able to help. You see it is one of their specialties.
RUTH KEWIN of Divorceroadmap.com took time out of her busy schedule to explain how her company works.
First of all RUTH how long has DIVORCEROADMAP been in operation?
DivorceRoadMap started in 2000. It is the outcome of a 30 year journey to my Life Coach practice, having been a social worker in public and private practice, a child advocate, a family therapist, an entrepreneur in the financial/credit industry and for the past decade a Life Coach working with people going through major life transitions, including divorce.
My partner in life and in this business Art Kewin was a psychologist before becoming a lawyer in 1982. His legal practice has included litigation, mediation, arbitration and collaborative law. In 2001 he became a Certified Financial Planner. He has integrated his knowledge and experience in these three fields via DivorceRoadMap to help people navigate major life transitions like Divorce.
Many companies are born out of personal need or experience. Was there a defining moment for you when you said "People need this service."
Yes. The tipping point came when I discovered that there was no other cohesive and focused resource available for people wanting guidance and support to navigate the emotional, financial and legal aspects of the divorce process.
For Art the tipping point arose when teaching law to financial professionals and financial planning to legal professionals. He realized that the disconnect between their separate silos of knowledge would not be bridged in a meaningful way by most practitioners. That is when and why we developed DivorceRoadMap; to give legal consumers divorce settlements that are actually fair and make sense financially going forward.
What exactly are the services DIVORCEROADMAP offers. Do you operate as mediators in large part?
Art offers mediation, and I Coach individuals in that process, but mediation is not our exclusive practice. Mediation, arbitration, collaborative law, and yes, even litigation, all have their place. The key to success is to start with an objective assessment of the case and the parties before deciding which process is best.
The Discover Consultation results in people knowing how to get started and they get a roadmap to navigate the process.
Our other programs offer various methods of managing the divorce negotiations, completing the process and moving on with a solid foundation.
I Coach clients involved in all of the processes. Art is a mediator, arbitrator and collaborative lawyer. He does not accept litigation cases now but does direct people to the courts in the few cases when that is required.
The holiday season for the most part is thought by many to be a time of love and happiness. I have read though one of the quiet little secrets about the holidays is it puts a lot of strain on relationships and those that are not strong quite often break over the holidays. In your line of work have you seen evidence of this?
Yes. January is the biggest month of the year for initiating a relationship break-up. The Holiday Season and start of a New Year are stressful and emotional times. However, they are not the cause of a matrimonial break-up. Much has transpired before a January consult with a divorce lawyer.
Having just recently watched Wedding Crashers again, the characters played by VINCE VAUGHN and OWEN WILSON at the start of the movie are trying to get a couple to sensibly move forward with their divorce. Is this the type of situation you find yourself in?
I have not seen that movie. We know that negotiating a divorce settlement is a very complex undertaking. Reasonable people often behave unreasonably when they are already stressed out on the emotional rollercoaster of a relationship breakdown.
What we do is empower people to negotiate knowledgably and wisely. We guide and support clients to make smart decisions based on expert legal and financial advice.
DIVORCEROADMAP brands itself as a One Stop Source for Legal/Financial and Coaching. The Legal and financial in a typical divorce seem straight forward but what exactly is the coaching aspect of your company?
The effects of divorce on individuals and families cannot be overstated. It can be a very lonely, overwhelming and financially devastating experience. Coaching supports people during the process. They become empowered to make good choices for themselves and their families. My clients report feeling more confident and are able to go forward positively because of the coaching experience.
What is the split male - female ratio of your clientele. Would one be wrong to think this is mainly a service designed for women?
We have always represented men and women in our separate practices. DivorceRoadMap programs are designed for both genders. Broadly speaking, men and women approach and handle the experience of relationship breakdown differently. How they manage the process depends more on their values, culture, life experience, needs and goals than on their gender.
December 18, 2012
Carved In Stone
If you have ever walked past the front of the White Rock museum you have no doubt seen the array of brass plaques inlaid into the stonework out front of the museum. We recently had the opportunity to see first hand how the program works. Subsequently we sat down with Lauren Boni Visitor Services & Resource Development Manager of the museum to learn more about the plaque program.
Lauren how long has the plaque program been in place as a fund raiser for the White Rock Museum?
2006/2007
How many plaques are there spread out across the front of the museum.
Approximately 450
Who and where are the plaques created?
A local fellow by the name of Rene Duson works closely with the Museum and has looked after the production of the plaques on our behalf. The actual installation of the plaques on the Promenade is done by the City of White Rock. A long term employee of the City, Leon, has been doing the installations from the beginning but we have recently learned that he will be retiring this year. Leon will be greatly missed by our Train Plaque Program.
 Mary Caron front and centre with Peace Arch Manor Board of Directors
I was recently involved with the purchase of the a plaque for a lady that was a fellow board member at the Peace Arch Manor. Many people these days are trying to cut down on the clutter in their life and we were faced with that challenge. Given the fact our honouree is a long time White Rock resident (Mary Caron) we thought it would be a wonderful idea to create a lasting legacy for her volounteer work at the Manor. To say she was touched and blown away would be an understatement.
What is the gamut of dedications you have seen for the plaques?
In memory of an individual, an anniversary celebration, recognition of a first date, births, birthdays, celebration one's life while they are here to enjoy and appreciate the plaque, graduation celebration
Is there one or two stories you could share with the readers about a plaque dedication.
Every plaque has its own unique story and every story is very touching.
1) one woman has purchased six plaques commemorating family births and birthdays
2) a fellow purchased one to commemorate his first anniversary of his marriage. The walk along the Promenade was the site of their first date.
3) Many families have purchased a plaque in memory of a loved one. Perhaps the family spent a many an afternoon at the beach, Mom & Dad strolled along the promenade on a regular basis, the loved one may have lived many years in the community, it is a place where the family can come to reminisce about memories of a loved one.
What is the cost of a plaque?
$600 including tax and with that a $450.00 tax receipt is issued to the purchaser.
Given the plaques help fund the operation and improvements at the museum it seems like a reasonable expenditure especially if like us a few people can become involved.
The train plaque program is one of our greatest fund raising programs at the Museum. It allows individuals to contribute to the programming and improvements at the Museum while at the same time leaving a permanent legacy and memory of a loved one or of a special event.
It recently was brought to my attention the bench dedication available through the city of White Rock are limited to a period of time. The plaques though are forever correct?
This is correct. We will continue on with each new installment of plaques where we left off with the last----there is a lot of promenade space to fill
Are the purchasers of the plaques responsible for the cleaning of the plaques? Is it difficult to keep them bright and shiny?
The purchaser of the plaques are responsible for the cleaning of the plaques but cleaning is purely optional. Cleaning kits are provided in our Museum Shop at no charge to individuals who wish to clean a plaque. The process is very easy as it involves the finest of sandpaper and steel wool with a bit of water.
Some purchasers enjoy the weathered look while others come on a regular basis to ensure a constant shine to their plaque. One woman who purchased a plaque in memory of her late husband told me that she has given the responsibility of ensuring "Grandpa's Plaque" was shiny has been given to her grandchildren. She hopes that they will continue to shine the plaque for generations to come.
One elderly gentleman is committed to keeping his late wife's plaque in pristine condition – I see him every few weeks diligently cleaning the plaque and remembering the good times that he and his wife shared at White Rock Beach. It is a place for him to visit and to connect with his wife of many years.
For more information on the plaques (click here)
December 05, 2012
 l-r TRACEY ELLIS and MICHELLE HERLIHY
First of all Michelle if you could tell us a bit about your information that brought you to realize there may be a need for a service like your upcoming speed dating evening.
I heard an interesting stat a few months back. Currently, White Rock and South Surrey has the most single women ages 40-50 in all of Canada. The greater Vancouver area has the most single people in the world (% wise) I know as a women in her 40's with children and a career, it is very hard to meet people on a social level. If it's not an organized event, it usually gets pushed down the list of priorities. Life is just very busy at this stage. Kids still come first. The empty nesters sometimes just want to find new golf buddies or someone to go dancing with. We will be hosting events for many age groups.
You partner in this event and in the company CONNEXTIONS is a local stylist TRACEY ELLIS. How did you two end up forming CONNEXTIONS, was there an "aha moment" that occurred where you said "We have to do this."?
Both Tracey and I have been business owners in this community for over 25 years. I have known her personally for longer than that! In essence, we have both been connectors of people and business for our entire business careers, and we both come from media backgrounds. It was inevitable we would be working together some day - we had talked about it over the years. Co-incidentally, both of us recently became single, and it opened a window into a world that was foreign to us for many years. Tracey runs a Men's Salon/Spa and talks to her men clients daily about their personal lives. They all complain about the difficulty of meeting new people in a small town, and just in general. We both agreed the online thing is tough, so we decided to go to a speed dating night, as they were becoming popular, just to see what it was all about. The aha moment was in the car ride home.
It has recently been brought to my attention a the vast number of friends and associates I know, that have met their mate through on line dating services. I must admit I was somewhat taken back at the high percentage of couples that have met in cyberspace before meeting in real life. From your experience have you found a similar situation?
Yes, I have married friends that have met online. I like the online dating platform. It definitely has a place. Match.com and some others have perfected it. But it will always be a little scary to me. I compare it with shopping at Value Village. There are always great buys there, but you need lots of time to turn over every hanger and go through every shelf. It's a needle in a hay stack scenario. We just remove some of that time required in the search. We bring everyone together, provide an atmosphere in a public/safe environment, and voila! 15 dates in 2 hours. It's great! It's time management and safety we are trying to promote. Our saying...
...we bring people together!
Please explain how your upcoming speed dating night works?
Without going into too much detail and giving away some of our newly added features...it is basically 15 women and men. The girls stay seated and the guys move to the next date every 5 minutes. Tracey and I MC the event and let everyone know their timing etc. You hand in special guest cards at the end of the evening and choose who you would like to be matched with. We connect you both. There are some special features I won't go into, but we assure everyone a fun evening! our web site has a bit more detail for you. www.mherli.wix.com/connextions
Our formal web site will be launched in the new year.
Is there any advance screening for the participants or does everyone that signs up get accepted?
We do pre-screen our guests. We get their contact numbers, email & photos. If they are on social media we connect to their Twitter or Facebook page. Without these things they can't participate. The online platforms leave that up to you. People can hide behind that wall until you meet them. You don't always know who your chatting with. Meeting new people can be intimidating and a little scary. We try and remove a few of the fears by making sure our guests are local, professional and who they say they are. We also try and provide all our guests with safety knowledge regarding online dating provided by the NCSA (National Cyber Security Alliance) We will always be looking for new ways to improve how we screen guests without going beyond privacy laws. Our new web site will have some state of the art security features. It is in the works and should be launched some time in Jan-Feb
The National Cyber Security Alliance is a non-profit organization. Through collaboration with the government, corporate, non-profit and academic sectors, the mission of the NCSA is to empower a digital citizenry to use the Internet securely and safely protecting themselves and the technology they use and the digital assets we all share. NCSA works to create a culture of cyber security and safety through education and awareness activities.
NCSA board members include: ADP, AT&T, Bank of America, EMC Corporation, ESET, Facebook, Google, Intel, McAfee, Microsoft, PayPal, Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Symantec, Trend Micro, Verizon and Visa www.staysafeonline.org
Speed dating get togethers have been around for awhile. Have you or Tracey ever encountered one of these events as a participant as opposed to an organizer?
We attended a Vancouver event as guests a few months ago, and realized how much we could improve on the guest experience by bringing in a few more elements:
1/ We have sponsorship that allows us to provide our guests great discounts at local merchants. These local businesses range from fitness outlets, clothing stores, spa services and salons.
2/We host it at a place that provides great food and beverage. Even if you make no love connection, it will be a fun night out. Something many of us just don't do often enough.
3/ We work with a charity each time so that the events are giving back to the community not only on the business level but to those that need it most.
4/ We have tried to make guests aware that although you may not make a love connection, they are not to dismiss the fact that they might just meet a good friend & a possible business contact. It's not every day you have a chance to sit and chat with 15 professional people in a two hour span.
If there is one myth that you would like to dispel about Speed Dating get togethers what would it be?
I think the stigma is on dating over 40 in general. Whether online or speed dating, there is just a weird negativity around being over 40 and dating. If someone does not want to post a picture on an online profile, I call "fraud". They are not who they say they are. If they just don't want people to know they are dating online, I ask why? Why is it so shameful to be single and dating? I am certainly not ashamed of who I am. I am a professional business woman in this community and do not care what others opinion is of my marital status. There are frauds everywhere, not just in the dating world.
I think both platforms, on line as well as speed dating, are a sign of the times. I think both are brilliant, and if done safely, can provide a great way to meet people. Long gone are the days we meet people at a bar or party. Not saying it can't happen, but how often do you actually meet new people these days in these environments? I don't know about you, but with the little time I have, when I do go out with friends, I want to talk to them, and enjoy their company. If I had to choose a way to meet "new" people I would have to choose speed dating. It's just a riot! My experience was great, and both Tracey and I are hoping to extent that same experience to our invited guests - with our added features and surprises! We are both detail orientated and professionals, and all of our events will reflect that. We are hoping to bring awareness to a new and fun way to get people together.
Our event on the 21st of this month is focussing on singles 40-55. Our next event will be in January and more than likely that particular evening will be geared for the 55+ crowd. The third event will be for younger singles 25-45 and that will be scheduled for the spring of 2013.
November 02, 2012
HOLY SMOKE!...it's a coffee shop
Tales of the Tepee Excerpts Taken from RHYMES OF THE TIMES
Thanks to all the Characters I’ve met throughout. My life, they have been my inspriation, and to the "Angels who push my pen"
AL NEMETH
PART II OF THE HISTORY OF THE TEE PEE
Bray sisters build a bigger and better Tepee
After the dramatic burning of the original Timberland Tepee,
the daughters of the new owners were obsessed with the idea of
getting their dad to build them their very own Tepee.
They really drive me crazy; you know just what I mean.
Guess I don’t remember when I was a teen.
I guess I’ll just keep saying, the things I need to say.
When they do get older, they’ll understand my way.
As young girls, the Bray sisters had started off by selling lemonade
outside the office in a make shift Tepee. Since it was their dad
that was sending them their customers, they did very well.
She still calls me daddy, thinks I’m big and strong.
Loves me without question, if I’m right or wrong.
In 1995 the sisters were in their late teens and with some
help from their father, William Bray, decided to go into the
coffee business. Mr. Bray built them a brand new Tepee.
The three sisters, although quite naïve in the ways of
the world, took turns selling coffee at the”NAVA-java-HO”.
Running a new business taught the girls lessons, in not
only business but, in dealing with all kinds of characters.
The girls did very well for a couple of years before
Starbucks and Tim Horton’s decided to cut in on their
business. At that point the girls retired from the Tepee.
They rented out their Tepee to few different people but
being somewhat unreliable, the renters never made it work.
Hope that they listen, seldom they do.
Gotta do it their way, it ain’t nothing new.
Then one day a stranger came into town
My Grampa saw the Tepee first and said “Holy Smoke kid, stop the Buggy!” There she was big as life; a Tepee with a For Rent sign
In the old days, people bought coffee fresh-roasted in small batches from their local roaster. Grandpa wanted to bring those days back
by turning the Tepee into the Holy Smoke Coffee Company.
It took a bit of elbow grease and a little help from our
friends but before long we were ready for opening day.
Well, except for everyone we knew and a couple other
folk, we didn’t sell much coffee that day at all.
In fact, now that I recall, we couldn’t give it away.
My Fathers Father was a Roaster who roamed from town to town,
Roasten’ up Good coffee, the best there was around.
“Open up a coffee shack and they will come”. I’m pretty sure
that was what my grampa said. Now I ain’t sure if Grampa
scared em’ off waving at them the first couple of days but
by the end of the first month all I could say was “Why won’t
they stop”? Grampa said that I should feel sorry for
them cause they don’t know what they’re missing.
Have you ever seen a person, you felt that you should know?
But because of inhibitions, you turn and let them go.
Something quite familiar, maybe in their smile,
Just go up and say hello, can we talk a while.
Why can’t it be that easy? We should learn to trust,
that little voice inside our head, before it starts to rust.
We’re often right the first time, second guesses get us by.
The more we count on instinct, the less we have to try.
Well that first six months of being a proprietor sure wasn’t
all that I thought it should be. As time went on I started
noticing the various characters that showed up at the Tepee.
Old time rock and rollers, people of the past.
Seem a little slower now, ain’t movin’ very fast.
Some say they remember, others never will.
But when they get together, they talk about it still.
As the summer faded and the cool crisp autumn came around
Grampa left me to man the Tepee while he went off to his
Happy Hunting Grounds (Palm Springs) and said
“Don’t worry kid they’ll show up”.
My Grampa always told me, that I shouldn’t run.
I’d miss so many things, if I didn’t sit in the sun.
I couldn’t understand then, what he did mean.
Busy looking ahead, for the dreams I hadn’t seen.
And by the end of the first year they did just that. I guess
word spread far and wide. “HOLY SMOKE” that’s good coffee.
“There’s one thing worse than being talked about,
It’s not being talked about” Oscar Wilde
Biography
Born and raised in North Jersey in the mid-20th century (1950),
I grew up amongst different social & ethnic groups. My formative years
coincided with the racial tension of the early ‘60s. Never quite fitting in
with any one group or clique, I remained on the fringe and developed
a loner mentality that helped me survive wherever I roamed.
Early meditation & escapism was achieved by cheap Thunderbird wine.
By the late ‘60s, already having tried out a Roman Catholic seminary,
selling suits at an exclusive men’s store, & a short stint in the US Marine Corps,
I began an odyssey that took me hitch-hiking across Europe & North America.
In 1973 I made up my mind that Vancouver was where I would settle down.
My interest in the metaphysical realms led me to take courses in
creative visualization. Eckankar & other “new age wisdom” helped me
continue my travels through the universe, using my mind rather than my thumb.
I started writing about that time and continued over the years to
chronicle events, ideas & feelings that always seemed to come out in rhyme.
Over the years the box I deposited those one-to-five verse poems
collected dust until late 1998 when I felt the need to review my life.
Sorting through random thoughts & words of wisdom, I decided to
compile some of them into “Rhymes of the Times”(1999),
which I hope will give my children, friends & people I haven’t
met yet, a better look and understanding of me.
In 2007 I started working on “Tales of the Tepee”
I dedicate this dalliance to my lady, Shawneen ~ Al Nemeth “2012”
LEGEND OF THE TEE PEET PART I
Legends have been written by many men telling tales of far-off lands and wondrous exploits of colorful characters. This is the story of the “TEPEE” and some of the people
that have been involved with its’ vivid past.
There always is a story, or a lesson to be learned.
Sometimes a pretty poem or a tale of being burned.
So I hope you will excuse me, as I share my words with you.
Just can’t seem to help myself, it’s the only thing I do.
It all began in the early 1960’s when South Surrey and the lazy little town of Crescent Beach were a haven for many early transients. The Beach & the farm land meant a lot more in those early days and the fertile soil near the Serpentine River grew crops that fed not only the bodies but also the minds of a new generation of Hippie farmers.
There’s a special place I often go, where the weather is so fine.
I walk on down the old steep steps, to a beach that’s always mine.
Timberland Campground came to be when one of these homesteads was being abandoned by a local after losing his wife in the cold winter in ‘64’. The land with its abundance of tall trees bordering on a small stream was the perfect spot for a young Hungarian family to start up a little sawmill which would eventually become an RV park.
Waves roll in so gently, and softly slip away.
So glad that I take the time, to come here every day.
Timberland started attracting a certain segment of society that was trying to get back to the land. These new age Hippies as they were called, led simple lives spending their days just hanging out, working odd jobs, scrounging, and relying on our benevolent welfare system. Some were avid gardeners who grew their own and relied on bartering to supplement their lifestyles.
The worlds seen many changes, in the last half century.
Life is so much better, because of Technology.
A few are getting richer; the poor don’t get their share.
The old are growing older, does anybody care.
The very first “Tepee” at Timberland was built in 1971 by a guy named Lou from Nova Scotia. He cut poles from pine trees and lashed them together using hemp rope, covered it with canvas and used black pitch to seal it as the tar set his girlfriend Sunshine threw on some sparkles and mumbled an old Gypsy spell to bless their humble home. Legend has it that the only piece of furniture was a king-size waterbed and that the inside walls were draped with flags from each Province of Canada.
She comes to me at midnight so soft and tenderly
Hair is golden sunlight, she moves so naturally.
Days fly by so quickly and once again in bed.
I await my special lady, who is always in my head.
Timberland was purchased in the in the early 1990s by the Bray family. The Brays built the Adobe style motel units, hired a manager who didn’t care who he rented rooms to and soon Timberland became a favorite spot for transient construction workers, one night affairs as well as becoming known as a good place for an afternoon quickie.
You took me without effort, to a strange & distant land.
Where love would last forever, if only I held your hand.
Being a family man, Mr. Bray fired that first manager and attempted to change the cliental by offering monthly rentals to those who were of strong moral fiber and happened to have first and last months’ rent in advance.
We wanted to change things, but didn’t quite do
All of the things, that we started to
Our kids can fulfill the things that we didn’t
We showed them the way, in what we have written.
The Night of the Burning Tepee
It was early Oct in 1994 when, according to legend, a suspicious fire broke out on full moon welfare Wednesday night. The original Tepee had long since been replaced with even a bigger one that was constructed out of salvaged plywood and lumber. Rumors were that Lou and Sunshine had been popping out babies every year in order to increase their welfare rates as well trying for a record onhow many kids can live in a TEPEE?
Way back in the seventies, I tried to see the light.
By doing magic mushrooms, every second night.
On that fateful night Sunshine and the kids were out of town. Lou was at home fixen up some supper when a ragtag band of bikers pulled into the campground. Lou decided to invite these bikers over for a party and it didn’t take long to get out of hand.
Seen ‘em come, & watched em’ go.
They couldn’t understand, you know.
All their lives, they’ve never seen.
Or gone to places, where I’ve been.
One thing led to another and soon a fight broke out. One of the bikers went over to his saddlebags and pulled out a couple of Molotov Cocktails. As the fights spilled out of the TEPEE the fiery bottles were thrown inside and that’s when all Hell broke loose. The entire campground came to Lou’s aid but nothing short of a miracle could stop the flames that were reaching for the sky on that late Harvest moonlit night. By the time the fire department got there, the bikers and Lou split, never to be seen again.
There’s some friends, I never bring home.
But when I’m out drinking, I’m never alone.
Don’t really know them, or like them so much.
But they’re always ready, to keep me in touch.
October 25, 2012
ON THE ROAD AGAIN
 Dwayne & Sharon Jacobson owners of South Surrey's ROADHOUSE GRILLE
 Shortly after the White Rock sea festival this past summer, DWAYNE & SHARON JACOBSON owners of McJac's ROADHOUSE GRILLE set off in a caravan of fellow RV owners heading for the Maritimes. That would be the first leg of their circumnavigation of North America. They are heading home and now we can tell the story.
PART II of The Jacobson's Excellent Vacation
This report covers out time in Newfoundland, return to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick
Thank you for all those who help make this a wonderful experience for Sharon and I. I hope we have been a
blessing to you as well.
Thank you
I am writing this while camped in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. having driven here today from Gettysburg where we spent 2 days. It was there that I discovered
no fluid in the master brake cylinder serving the rear brakes. I imagine I had been driving the last few thousand miles with only front brakes.
Well all 4 rear received new seals, riveted shoes, wheel cylinders and bearings greased. The parking brake does nothing. What a difference.
And to think back to driving some of those hills, city streets, the Bronx, New York . . . . . . . . .
Across Canada Rolling Rally – Last leg in Canada
We finally boarded the overnight ferry (the short northerly route) to Newfoundland. Warning – if you are going on the overnight one make sure to book a state room well ahead of your sailing date. The reclining seats only partially recline and not far enough to be comfortable for sleeping. The cost for this ferry and the return one (Longer route) was just over $1000.00 for our 26 ft coach, 2 passengers, reclining seats on the shorter route (6hr) and a state room on the long route 16 hr).
We stopped in Corner Brook for some brake fluid. Coming into the plaza I spotted what I thought was a guy I know from White Rock. I run after him, calling his name and whistling. He stops his rented RV and looks at me with surprise written all over his face. Soon his wife comes out from the store and again the surprise effect. They tell us of their ventures on the Island sharing places that are a must see.
We arrive in our Deer Lake campsite for the first evening. Stopped next morning in Rocky Point to buy tickets for the Boat cruise in Western Pond in Gros Morne Nat’l Park and headed for it. Sandy decided not to join the Gregory’s and ourselves and went on to Cow Head where she would secure a campsite for us plus buy tickets to the evening live play.
Western Pond – to get there you hike in approx 3 km. The boat holds about 50, and it was full. The trip into the Fjord was fairly smooth, bits of wind and the odd wave coming aboard. A beautiful scenic tour. High rock cliffs on both sides, waterfalls cascading down the rock face in several locations. Roughly a
1 ½ hr one way ride. On the return the wind had increased and swells of 3 to 4 ft occurring with many
Leaping on board soaking those on deck. Both Darlene and Sharon got soaked just before we docked. A delightful tour and recommend it to those who visit the Island.
It was a wet night in Cow Head and a entertaining play by 2 local actors. The next morning we headed north on the Viking Trail arriving at the tip of the Island where we toured the Museum and grounds of where the Vikings landed 400 yrs before Columbus. This is very well presented and worth the trip.
For the evening we headed into St. Anthony’s, ate at a local restaurant (OK) (Sandra did not join us but decided to head to our campsite. She got about ½ mile and her coach quit on her. Start, run a bit then quit. We found her by the side of the road and tried to figure out what the problem was. She spent the night there in a parking lot and the next day had it towed to a local garage that discovered after 2hrs that it was a dirty fuel filter (one by the carb.). We in the meantime did some shopping and a lunch out by the Lighthouse. Had Cod Cakes and beans, excellent!
It took us a couple days to get into St. John’s and stayed in the RV park located in the city. Darlene and Sharon walked to the downtown waterfront and got Screech –in at Trapper John’s. Glenn and I spend a day and half caulking the coaches. We finally made it down to the waterfront in our coach and found parking and our wives, walked around the waterfront area and had a meal. Finding our way back home was a bit of trial and error.
The next day we made our way to the ferry that took us back to Nova Scotia.
We very much enjoyed Newfoundland however the architecture I had envisioned was not there having been replaced with a coating of Vinyl Siding. I realize the homes would now be better insulated and comfortable but I would have liked to have seen more thought go into the selection of materials and colours.
Back in Nova Scotia we were met by Hugh and Rosemary Macdougall driving their 78 Palm Beach.
They joined us as guides to Peggy’s Cove where we camped. From there we toured Peggy’s Cove,
Part of the cottage coast line and Halifax. We took in a great tour of the Alexander Keith Brewery, shopped, and ate some more great seafood chowder. We continued together to Lunenburg where we were joined by Corwin and Rose Marie Hirtle of Bridgewater in their 77 Hughes GMC 2600. We spent the day touring the waterfront, shops, café’s, horse and buggy ride and viewing the work in progress of the Blue Nose. That evening we shared a lovely campsite meal together. It really was delightful spending the time with these two couples. Hopefully we will meet again and enjoy more time together.
After saying our – until we meet again – we headed for the Digby Ferry that would take us on a 3 ½ hr trip in the Bay of Fundy to Saint John, NB.
Upon arrival in NB we followed the GPS plus phone instructions to Adam Raeburn’s residence where we
spent the night camped
in their front driveway. What a wonderful family. Our time there was short but enough to see the many projects Adam has done, underway, starting and dreaming of.
Our last stop in NB was St. Andrews by the Sea. Visited the street market where we tasted the local fare, I had my hair cut, the dogs got their exercise and then we were off to the USA.
That ended the trip in Canada. I highly recommend you do it at least once.
Visiting America
Sharon and I presently are on the Cruise out of Galveston.
Our travel from the Maritimes to Galveston had many wonderful experiences.
Maine offered beautiful small towns and seaside resorts. It was here that Sandra left us and headed west. Not sure where she is now but she has no problem travelling alone (well not completely – she has Lacey with her) and no problem meeting people.
Glenn and Darlene Gregory of Thunder Bay and ourselves carry on in tandem.
New Hampshire – again beautiful scenery and a before you know it you’ve gone through it.
Massachusetts – We drove into Boston and walked around the Freedom trail, had lunch at Dick’s then on the road again but this time to Cap Cod and an overnight stay close to the beach. Absolutely Beautiful. The girls (Sharon and Darlene) and Cooper tried out the water in Cap Cod Bay. The next day we stopped in Providence for lunch. Delightful old city.
Connecticut – also offered beautiful scenery and drove right on our way to the RV camp site in Jersey City.
New York – Well both Glenn and myself, fully reliant on the GPS, found ourselves driving on a road that soon became restricted to vehicles as high as ours. We turn off and find ourselves in the Bronx, dodging traffic and train trestle structures. After what seemed like hours we were on 3rd avenue which became Park Avenue, a trip through the arched opening in the Met Life building onto a raised roadway leading us down onto Broadway Ave amongst hundreds of yellow cabs – rush hour traffic – and no where to turn off (side streets read “Cars Only” ) – By now we have spent close to 2 hours in New York Traffic on streets restricting RV’s – Glenn following me went through several red lights in order to stay right behind. Police were in sight of several of his infractions but did nothing. We get to the entrance of Holland Tunnel and see the sign “NO CAMPERS _ NO PROPANE” and there’s a police officer just to the left of us. We both hop out of our coaches and turn our propane tanks off. The cop leaves his car and walks across in front of us into a small building – not looking back at all. We proceed through the tunnel to Jersey City – get into the camp site and flop – recounting the just finished journey.
New York – we take the sub into the city delivering us at Ground Zero. We tour the site – very very interesting. Next we take a sub to Times Square and walk around gazing at the billboards and people. Lunch then a walk to Central Park where we take a horse and buggy tour of the Park. Wow! much bigger than ever imagined and so much going on inside. This is a DO NOT MISS this part of the City. We head back to our Jersey site then take a very long walk to the waterfront looking over at New York skyline , Staten Island and the Statue of Liberty. Then a long walk to a Cuban restaurant for a delightful meal. It has been 2 very full days. New Jersey to Gettysburg where we camped and then toured the Battlefield the next day. I found my rear brakes were failing and spent that night camped in the rear parking lot of the Brake shop. We spent more time touring Gettysburg while waiting for the finished work on the coach. Work done around 4;30 pm then on the road again.
West Virginia – beautiful rolling hills – run into a thunderstorm that almost stops all traffic.
Pigeon Forge, Tenn. – we camp here for 2 nights – spend a good part of the day in Dolly wood and take in the Dolly wood Stampede show. All very enjoyable. Do a window shopping walk around the town in Gatlinburg before on the road to Nashville. We arrive in Nashville Sunday to find no Grand Ole Opry until Tuesday – so we miss it but head down town to dine and listen to those wanting to make it in the music business. Make a stop at Coyote Ugly – and although the servers may be pretty the place is downright Ugly. After several other stops we head back to camp to rest our bodies. Leaving Nashville we take a secondary road that takes us through residential (estate) neighbourhoods and small towns, countryside – very scenic and much better than on the free-ways. We are headed for Harvest, Alabama where Glenn has a generator door waiting. We arrive at Kerry’s place where I swap the rear 2 right tires (one is wearing too much on the outer edge). We look over Kerry’s handiwork in formed aluminium. Amazing work. A heavy rain downfall then sunshine. We are on our way again headed for New Orleans. Walmart – here we spend our first night dry camping in their parking lot. OK except for the garbage truck at 4am.
New Orleans: we find a lovely camp site at a marina and tour the French Quarters, find a free outdoor music fest in the Financial portion of the City then walk another 1/2 mile to a Cajun Dine and Dance restaurant. Great food, music and fun dancing. Swamp Tour – the final day we are together we take a Swamp tour – where we get to see more than a dozen 5 to 6 year old alligator’s, some turtles, Birds, and an Armadillo. Nice trip. A lunch together then we say our good byes with Glenn and Darlene headed East to Florida and ourselves West to Galveston.
Our time with Glenn, Darlene and Cooper has been rich. We have loved their company, humour, cook off’s, crib games, tours and relaxing times.
Galveston Island. We take the trip from the east that takes us across to the island by ferry. We find a camp site on the far west end of the Island where they allow us to store the Coach – plugged in, while we cruise. We spent Saturday driving around Galveston, walking the beach and having lunch at a beach side restaurant. Awesome beach that goes for miles and miles. The owners have built this camp site up over the past 7 years to include, a pond with fountain, a mini-golf game, outdoor theatre horse back riding, tame ducks, palm trees, full service with picnic benches. To add to all this they drove us to the cruise ship terminal and will also pick us up next Sunday morning.
We have travelled more than 10,000 miles so far.
–
September 14, 2012
As I strolled through the White Rock Farmer's Market recently I noticed the Golden Ears Cheesecrafters booth. Upon further inspection I found the booth was home to a wide variety of fromage products.
Meet Emma Davison who graciously has taken the time to answer a few questions about the many wonderful culinary delights available at Golden Ears Cheesecrafters.
How long has Golden Ears Cheesecrafters been in operation? What was the motivation to create your own cheese crafting company? I also understand it is a family operation.
Yes, the family running Golden Ears Cheesecrafters is myself, Emma, my older sister, Jenna (head cheesemaker) and my parents Kerry and Lynn Davison, whom both grew up in strong farming families that have passed the knowledge down through what is now, 5 generations. The whole idea of Golden Ears Cheesecrafters came about because my parents wanted to have something to pass on; something that was value added to the little bit of our heritage that is left in Maple Ridge. The first generation of our family that came to Maple Ridge in 1902, started farming, and we've been doing it ever since. Throughout the past century, most of the land has been sold off. Today, the existing farm is only of 50 acres of land which belongs to my Uncle (Kerry's brother). So my parents approached my sister and I in 2009 about the idea of cheese making and we fell in love with it. Jenna originally went to school for horticulture and agriculture, so when she started working in Agassiz for Farmhouse Natural Cheeses she found her niche. I, myself, am a super 'locavore', so my passion turned into my career. I love food, with an emphasis on local and natural. I had the opportunity to study business at the University of the Fraser Valley where I got really motivated to share what I had learned and run a staff team. Today, our family is closer than we've ever been. When the four of us sit down together, we can get a loud and argumentative, but in the long run, its just a lot of creative juices flowing. We bounce ideas back and forth and we all manage to make some agreements- for the most part. We opened our big welcoming doors on Aug 23rd, 2011.
From the name I assume your base of operations is in the Maple Ridge area? Do you source your milk for your cheese locally?
As I said above, the "Family" part of our business runs a lot deeper than what might be contained in the four walls of our facility. The milk comes from my uncles Jersey Cow herd which is located just 300 meters from our doorstep. Most would say that Maple Ridge is a small town to start a a big-dream operation such as this, but in the last 30 years this one horse town has grown into a big town with a lot to say and lots of plans for the future. My town is growing, and I want to be a part of it. Maple Ridge is really full of hidden treasures; people need to stop assuming that we are in no-man's land and cross that threshold into our territory- I guarantee that they will fall in love.
I believe this is your first year at the White Rock Farmer's Market correct? Have you had a chance to get around to any of the other booths to sample the wares of your neighbours? If so do you have a favourite booth?
This is our first year at every market we're at (which is 3 per weekend, plus some odd ones). We love doing farmers markets. The point of our store is to tell people how we do everything and what we use to do it. We want people to start asking about other products that they use every, where its coming from? what's in it? what processing techniques are they using? Farmers Markets are almost the only way that they can ask those questions, so we relish in it, really.
Honestly, I have no had a chance to work our booth in White Rock, yet, regardless of how fabulous it is. Lest, every Sunday afternoon there is some kind of treat on my desk, whether its a chocolate quinoa square, a bag of kettle corn or some funky carrots; its always something different and delicious and makes me love that Sunday market. From what I hear, all of the other vendors are quite fond of our cheeses and have been trading goods each week; I think its brilliant. We will be back next year for sure- we already voted.
In addition to attending the White Rock Farmer's Market, you will be involved in a number of special events in the coming months. Could you tell us some of the other locations you will have your product for sale?
This being our first year, we are trying so hard not to turn any opportunity down. We will be at High Point Equestrian on Sept 29-30 for the Shed Row Market in South Langley (I can hardly spare staff to go to that event, but the site is so unbelievably gorgeous that I just had to say yes). We're crossing our fingers to get into the Cranberry Festival this year. We also host a number of events every month at our facility that are posted on our 'News and Events' page on our website [www.cheesecrafters.ca] as well as we list all of our retail locations and the other markets that we do.
In addition to your cheese being available Sundays at the market, I understand there are two other locations in the South Surrey area just one at the moment. where you stock your cheese. What other locations can we find your product at?
At the moment, we are just selling our cheeses to the lovely ladies over at the lovely Road House Bake Shoppe in Surrey. But we're always looking for more spots that we can squeeze some cheese into.
At the market and on your website I see you are very proud of your fresh cheese curds. Excuse my ignorance but besides poutine what other recipes call for curds?
Come to think of it- not a lot 'call for curds' but that's where the creativity comes in, right?! Aside from eating them when they're fresh and warm, straight out of the bag: we put them on top of pizza, in omelette's, in soups, on nachos, you can make cheese bread and roll the curds right into the dough before you bake. Surprisingly enough, we get that questions a lot. People shouldn't be so scared of them. They freeze really well, actually. and when they're a bit older, they melt better. Dave- you should use them just like you would use any cheese; add it to everything.
Just looking at all the varieties of your cheese products makes my mouth water. Could you please tell us the 2 or 3 varieties of cheese that are your top sellers.
This is a really tough question, because everything we've made so far- is really popular. I would have to say, and I think my staff would agree, our top sellers are Brie, Natural Cheddar and Quark. The Brie is triple cream, so its really rich and delectable, so, just as it should be- its most peoples first choice. The Natural Cheddar is popular because people are really starting to not only see, but taste the difference between the cheddar we make and something that is orange. It's still pretty young, but the flavours have really started to jump out in the last 3 months. The Quark is one of our spreadable fresh cheeses. It's only popular because we're telling people about why its a great cheese and the more they learn about it- the more they want it. This is why: In the small container we package it in, there are only 2 grams of fat and a whopping 22 grams of protein. This is a cheese that you can use as a cream cheese to spread on toast, bake into cheesecake, whip into mash potatoes, spread on fruit...anything. It's a brilliant cheese to have, especially for low-fat, low-sodium or low-cholesterol diets. Its a low fat cheese that doesn't taste anything like a low-fat cheese- it almost tricks you, because its so creamy.
Thank you Emma
August 03, 2012
A Ha - Ahee
 DYANA BIAGI / Aji (Ah Hee) Gourmet Products
Next time you visit the White Rock Farmers' Market take the time to stop by to say hello to DYANA and have a free sample ofher wonderful sauces and dips.
First of all, was there a defining moment for you to enter the hot sauce market. Had you made a sauce for you own personal use and friends and family urged you to take it further?
Ají is as a staple in our diet; I used it to make Guacamole and spiced up every other sauce. Ají isn't meant to be a Hot sauce it just adds tons of flavour and some spice, but by public demand I have increased the heat to my Hot, but more requests for hotter so I formulated the BURN which was my first true HOT SAUCE, and it has been a hit, I now need to increase the size of my bottles
Are your AJI sauces produced locally from local products?
We produce locally, and we use local ingredients as long as they are available.
We see you at the White Rock Farmers' Market regularly. Are your products available at any retail locations in the area?
We are so gracious for retail locations in South Surrey and White Rock have been amazing supporters of us. You can find our Ají at Kitchen Garden, and Kitchen Therapy the very first store to take our product, so they are very close to our heart, and since you can find us at Choices Markets, Fieldstones Artisan Breads, Piquant Gourmet Specialties, Keso and Thitsa's in Crescent Beach.
Let's take a moment and have you tell us about the wide variety of sauces in your line.
Ají Original, Hot Honey Garlic and BBQ these are our relishes
Ají original mild Hot sauce
Ají medium Hot sauce and
Ají Burn Hot sauce
How did you come up with the eye catching design and logo for the labels of your product?
Thank you for the complement,
I have done all my own designs for labels, point of sale sheets and posters, I do all my own photography. So it is all a big work in progress.
With a variety of sauces and flavours one would assume your sauces have a wide variety of uses. When customers buy your product at the market are you able to suggest some serving options?
I put all the images of what mixtures can be done with Ají on the left panel of the label and mix to taste and encourage customers to play with the sauces and make their own mixes and try Ají in their cooking and just use it at their tables to enhance their meals.
What do you tell people when they inquire how difficult it is to launch your own line of a food product? I assume your product is prepared under strict guidelines.
When People tell me they are thinking of develop a product, I always let them know they can count on me for resources and advice. It isn't easy and I appreciated when I got help myself.
Dyana thank you for taking the time to inform us about the history of AJI. One final question. What do you enjoy the most about participating in the White Rock Farmers' Market? Do you have a favourite fellow vendor?
I love the White Rock market because it is so friendly, I enjoy all the vendors and the customers are so great and supportive, the market is so easy going. The White Rock Farmers Market is my market, because its my community
July 18, 2012
 Live Well's SARA HODSON
Sara I understand you grew up locally and upon the completion of your post secondary education you returned to work at the Peace Arch Hospital. Could you give us the Coles notes version of your early history as a health profession?
After graduating from UBC and then completing my post-graduate studies through ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine), I was hired full time by the Peace Arch Hospital Cardiac Rehab program. One of my memorable roles was developing and managing the community cardiac rehab program, now located at the Centre for Active Living. This program hosts group exercise sessions for people with heart disease and as post-event rehab (heart attack, bypass, stents).
I understand it has now been over 10 years since you began working with the development and coordination of cardiac rehab. Was there one particular incident or event that caused you to identify the need for a facility like you have created at Live Well Exercise Clinic?
In my ten years at Peace Arch Hospital, I saw that individual's gained a great sense of benefit, both physically, but also mentally, from exercising with other people who were like minded in improving their health through exercise. I knew that a more vast population could benefit from supervised exercise programming, namely, all people living with a chronic condition. I knew that if I designed a program that opened it's borders from not only providing cardiac rehab, but was pro-active and forward thinking, if we focused on true chronic disease management, the effect on our community's overall health, as well as health care spending, would be improved. The reality is that people living with one chronic condition are often living with other co-morbidities and are at risk of other chronic conditions. It became my passion to develop a program that could encompass all of this, be evidence based, and cost-effective, it could change the face of our community...so Live Well Exercise Clinic was born.
 Sara checks blood pressure of program participant Terry Fisher during workout
Am I understanding correctly that prior to enrolling at Live Well Exercise Clinic clients should/must be diagnosed and referred by an MD?
We call this a prescription for exercise. Just as a statin is prescribed when a patient has high cholesterol, exercise is medicine and can be prescribed as so. This is the valuable area that many local physicians are excited about. Exercise is the super drug that has an overwhelming amount of benefits on chronic disease management and prevention...and NO SIDE EFFECTS!
The reason we ask for a referral/prescription is because we take every patient's medical history, treatment course and current medications very seriously in regards to minimizing their risk while exercising. Exercise is our speciality and our approach represents the quality and level of care we provide. Live Well Exercise Clinic has created a triad of care in our community that is very effective. This triad is the relationship between the patient, the physician, and our program. We continue to work with each referring physician to meet the needs of their patient and to provide clinical exercise prescription that produces outcomes. Reports are sent to the involved physician(s) multiple times per year or as needed.
Live Well Exercise Clinic focuses on Chronic Disease Management. What is CDM and how can the clinic help people that are suffering with these diseases?
Chronic Disease Management is a pro-active, forward thinking approach where program participants work with health care professionals to manage disease progression. The professional team that directs CDM programs consists of Exercise Physiologists, Registered Nurses and Dieticians. The program focus is most often activity and education. The term "chronic disease" includes heart disease, diabetes, cancer, COPD, chronic kidney failure, depression, stress, anxiety, chronic pain, dementia, and much more.
The unique aspect of Live Well Exercise Clinic is our approach and evidence based programming. As health care professionals, we become team members with each of our participants and work collaboratively to support them as they work to improve their health. Since our focus is individualized, we have the ability and capacity to work with our participants to make small changes in their life that will have a great benefit on their health. Some examples of this may be: increasing muscle mass and nutrition in a cancer survivor who experienced muscle wasting and weight loss as a side effect of their chemo treatments, or a diabetic who is struggling to manage their blood sugars, or someone who has recently had a heart attack and wants to return to their daily activities safely, or someone who has been told their cholesterol is high, or blood pressure, or fasting glucose,...the list goes on and on. The evidence behind exercise for any chronic condition is that it will help, in more ways than one, and in ways that can only be experienced, not written about. The key factor is that not all exercise is equal exercise, meaning that the approach we take with an individual who has high blood pressure, versus the person who has diabetes, is quite different, but this is the advantage of our program. We have taken care of the thinking part because of our extensive background and experience. Our participants don't feel confused or lost, instead they feel directed, supported, and encouraged.
You have explained the physical attributes of a Live Well Exercise program. Do you see any mental side effects from a personal having a healthier body, does it relate to a healthier more positive way of thinking?
Exercise has been shown over and over again to improve psychosocial factors including depression, anxiety and stress. Many of our referrals come from local physicians who's primary reason for referral is this exact reason. Exercise is powerful to the mind, it not only increases confidence, self-esteem and depression symptoms, but can change someone's outlook to being more positive. This is why the approach at Live Well Exercise Clinic is so unique, but also so effective, because we take the whole person into account. We focus on more than the function of the heart or the stabilization of blood sugars, we connect with each participant to improve their whole health which includes a multi-faceted approach, one that Live Well is receiving a lot of recognition for. Our goal for our participants is that they can truly live well, being able to do what they want, when they want, how they want, and feel great while doing it - isn't this what true health is. Saying that, the mind has to be healthy to succeed at this.
We have heard since the beginning of time exercise and diet play a big part in our healthiness. Does Live Well Exercise Clinic factor in dietary advice to your clients?
In treating the whole person, nutrition plays a huge role. What we put in our bodies, how much, and why, are key factors in our health. For this reason, we have teamed up with Choices Markets as a Wellness Partner. Their Nutrition team of educated and experienced Dietitians and Nutritionists, have a passion for chronic disease management and prevention. Our program participants benefit from in-house nutrition counseling offered at the clinic by our health care team, but also enjoy an enhanced experience through our partnership with Choices Markets.
Our goal is to support our participants to eat well on their journey to live well!
What is the age range of the clients of Live Well Exercise? Is there a difference in the number of men and women that enrol in your programs?
The clinic currently hosts participants from ages 14-88 years young. 42% of our participants are men, and 58% are women.
Are the programs at Live Well standard or are individual programs created by you and your staff for each client? What factors decide the programs for an individual?
The greatest success of our program has been that we meet each of our participants where they are at, not just on their first day, but every day they attend the clinic. Each participant has a LIVE WELL Plan that is individualized to their needs, wants, interests, and takes into account their diagnoses, treatments and medications. Equally as important, each individual has a completely customized exercise program. Participants attend sessions at regular times throughout the week in groups of up to 10-12, but their program is unique. This is one if the greatest benefits and successful elements of our program, that every participant gets the opportunity to participate in activity that is appropriate and evidence based for their health history, while benefitting from the power of a group.
Live Well Exercise Clinic is a research partner with the University of British Columbia's Dept. of Physical Therapy in an ongoing research project focused on chronic disease management. It also liaisons as a mentorship site for 4th year UBC Kinesiology students who learn through hands on experience for 8-12 month internships.
TO ATTEND THIS PROGRAM you can call the clinic directly, or go to their website and download a referral form for your physician to complete.
www.livewellexerciseclinic.com
 Around the top of the wall on one side of the LIVE WELL studio program participants have created positive personal affirmations.
Beyond the Bubble…
We hope you are all enjoying seeing the bubbles above the mirrors at the clinic. They are so inspiring and motivational! You have all accomplished so much and it is evident by how many bubbles were posted this month. Although the words on the bubbles may seem simple and uncomplicated, many have a story behind them. Today I am sharing a story about one bubble that will live forever in our hearts.
Richard, a participant in our cancer rehabilitation program, set his goal for our “goal bowl”…to be able to walk up his staircase at home. At first, it seems like a basic goal, perhaps one that with some exercises may be easily overcome. The story is much more than that…at the age of 46, Richard was diagnosed with terminal cancer. His goal represented his ability to climb up the stairs in his family home so that he could sleep in bed with his wife for as long as possible.
Live Well Exercise
306-1676 Martin Drive,
Surrey B.C. V4A 6E7
Phone: 604.541.2846
Fax: 604.541.2866
E-mail: info@livewellexerciseclinic.com
Live Well Exercise Clinic is located centrally on the White Rock/Surrey border just off 16th avenue on Martin Drive in the corner of the Semiahmoo Mall shopping centre parking lot (sw corner), in the Scotia McLeod building.
July 12, 2012
 AMANDA RIVARD Clawfoot Spa
Amanda how long have you been taking part in our wonderful community market?
This is my second year at the White Rock Farmers Market.
You have quite a wide variety of products available at your booth at the market. Could you please give us a list of the Top 5 products you sell and a bit about their attributes.
Rose & Apricot Cleansing Milk - A gentle non-foaming, soap free cleanser that cleans skin without stripping it of its own nourishing oils. Rose & Apricot Cleansing Milk leaves skin feeling soft and rejuvenated.
Apricot Kernel Face Cream - A light feeling, deep penetrating facial moisturizer with a very clean after feel. Apricot Kernel Oil is composed of fine molecules that penetrate the skin and moisturize at the lower levels preventing a heavy, greasy sensation.
Hemp Lip Butter - A rich colour-free, fragrance-free, flavour-free lip balm that is truly moisturizing. Carefully blended with nourishing butters, oils, and beeswax Hemp Lip Butter allows ambient moisture to penetrate the balm to prevent lips from feeling more chapped after the balm is removed. Many of our clients have also used this product in its convenient slider tin to moisturize cuticles and other small dry areas.
Apricot & Calendula Body Cream - Deep penetrating, and highly moisturizing Apricot & Calendula Body Cream soothes and hydrates skin with a clean silky sensation. This intense body cream with nourishing oils and soothing calendula can be used as a massage aid or as a intensive moisturizing body cream.
100% Olive Oil Soap - A luxurious low lathering bar soap that cleanses without stripping. We produce this bar this hard bar with a variety of beneficial additives as well as the simple 100% Olive Oil Bar. The line includes Canadian Marine Glacial Clay-a mineral rich detoxifying clay from Vancouver Island, and Soothing Oatmeal a fine ground oatmeal powder that soothes and moisturizes skin and does not contain rough chunks of oats.
I understand you also do SPA PARTIES. Could you enlighten us with a description of a Spa Party?
A Spa Party allows you and your guests to experience the benefits of our product line in the comfort of your own home. Although we carry testers of our products at all our markets and fairs, there is not always the time to indulge in the full range of a line. At the party we accommodate the needs of all who come and offer to demonstrate the most effective way to experience the products for each individual. The host sets the mood weather it be active or relaxing and we enhance the experience with our complete product line however it suits the host and guests.
You inform customers of Clawfoot Spa your products are fragrance and colour free. Why is this important?
Most members of our immediate family are sensitive to a wide variety of cosmetic products, including fragrance and colourants and foaming ingredients. While developing our ever expanding product line we found that many other people experienced the same difficulties. There are a wide variety of wonderful natural handmade products available that include colourants and fragrances that add to the beauty of their product. We decided to cater to those we could most closely relate to and avoid adding colours, fragrances, and foaming ingredients. Our client base with intense sensitivities appreciate being able to approach the booth and try the products without being surrounded by a variety of fragrances or other irritants.
What was your motivation to start Clawfoot Spa?
Our company started from a desire to service our growing family's need for sensitive skin products. With the birth of our youngest and most sensitive family member, our second daughter, we discovered dire a need for fragrance-free, colour-free, & foam-free products. We had such great success with the products we created for our personal use we started sharing them with our friends and local community. We quickly found that people loved the products we created and decided to share them with the our local community by attending local markets and fairs. We love the personal experience of meeting face to face with others who have been faced with similar skin sensitivities and work with them to help relieve their discomforts and introduce them to the growing world of handmade products.
Do you make your home in the area?
Yes, born and raised here. Our roots dig deep a few generations back.
If and when you get a moment before, during or after the market, are there any other vendors at the market that you like to pop in and say hello to?
I have enjoyed bouncing around and getting to know the vendors who attend regularly. Each Sunday I do my best to check out those who visit only a few times a season. I indulge myself most Sundays with lunch from the market and try to purchase from different vendors and try different food each week. I am awful at making decisions and would have an impossible time picking favorites.
June 29, 2012
EZ BONES Electric Bicycles Sunday at White Rock Farmers' Market
We are speaking today with HARRY CHONG of EZ BONES electric bicycles. HARRY how did you become involved in selling electric bikes?
I purchased my bike from my supplier last year and was using it when my wife showed interest in having one also. We bought her one the end of last summer and it was then that I asked my supplier if I could get involved with promoting these electric bike. I soon setup a distributorship and have been doing my best to let people know about them.
Do you personally use one of the electric bikes to get around?
We try to use them for pleasure as much as we can. This involves enjoying them on the weekends and some early evening rides to our favorite coffee shop. I have commuted to my business a few times but the nature of my business doesn't allow me to do this on a regular basis.
The day I stopped by your booth at the farmers' market a gentleman was taking the bike for a test ride and he seemed quite surprised how quick and fast the bike was. What is the top speed of the bike?
The top speed is 32km./hr. under its own power, that is, using no extra human pedal power.
How long will the bike hold a charge, how long does it take to charge up?
The battery should hold a charge of up to 60km. depending on the amount of hills you are travelling or the total weight you might be carrying.
Do you just plug it into a simple wall socket?
Just simply plug the battery in your regular house wall socket and within one hour, you will have 80% charge and if the battery is totally drained, it will take only three hours to charge it up to 100%.
In reading your literature if the bike was to lose its charge before you got home, you can ride it like a normal bike correct?
Absolutely. In every sense, it operates just like an ordinary 24 speed bike.
I assume you do not need any special drivers license or insurance for the bikes correct?
You do not need any special insurance or license to operate this bike in BC.
Depending on what extras you add on to the bike I am assuming the price would go up, but give me a ballpark figure for someone to get themselves into one of your bikes.
The price of these bikes are $1,895.00 + tax which is about 20% to 35% less than any other in the marketplace if you were to compare apples to apples. We have front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, puncture proof tires, extra strength stainless-steel spokes, why even the seat post is full suspension.
I purchase a set of panniers (saddle-bags) for my bike for about $90.00 which are great to carry groceries or anything you like.
What kind of reaction do you get when you are riding your bike?
I think it's cool when you casually ride past someone else on a regular bike while going up a hill. You can see that they are working it, and then you just zip by them. I also get the stares from people as I take-off from a standing stop at a traffic light when it turns green.
The debate is raging on in Vancouver that perhaps to increase bicycle riding there are some camps that are lobbying to get rid of bicycle helmets. Do you have an opinion on this movement?
I personally believe that although it would be fantastic if Vancouver is able to implement a bike sharing program like they have all over Europe, it will be a challenge because of the helmet law we have in place. Having said that, I'm totally in favor of leaving the helmet law as is. I would never dream of riding my bike without a helmet and would encourage anyone to do the same.
Would it be possible for a potential customer to test drive/ride the bike before purchasing?
I would have it no other way. Seriously! Spending upwards of $2,000.00 without even trying the bike out is ridiculous. If after anyone took a test ride at the marketplace and would like to pursue it further, I would suggest that I bring the bike to their home where they can ride it around their own neighborhood and get used to it before purchasing.
Thank you Harry see you Sunday.
June 23, 2012
The Flour Peddler Does Not Need A Bike Helmet
Today at the White Rock Farmers' Market The Flour Peddler rides into our fair city. Healthy organic products delivered right to your door. How good is that? How good is The Flour Peddler? Let's find out. And who better to talk to-Chris Hergesheimer, BA, MA, PhD applicant
Owner/Operator/Founder
The Flour Peddler Enterprises
Chris what exactly is a flour peddler?
A flour peddler, or more specifically, the one and only flour peddler is a community miller, working with regionally sourced grain crops. We build relationships with people through direct marketing activities and educational programs and attempt to revive the role of the community miller in providing the freshest flour for baking as well as developing direct relationships with customers. We use a unique pedal powered bike mill to help educate and demonstrate; overall, we just try and help people realize the many advantages in terms of flavor and nutrition that fresh flour can bring. All the while we support BC grain growers by providing an artisan, small batch production facility to turn their grains into flour
How long has the flour peddler been in existence?
The Flour Peddler has been operational since 2009. We have worked over 100 farmers markets over these years, conducted workshops for learners of all ages, spoke at conferences and presentations and all the while provided bakers interested in going back to basics, the freshest flour that is around.
What are the benefits of your products?
Fresh flour has huge nutritional benefits as all the vitamins and flavours are stored in the whole grain form; when a kernel is cracked and exposed to air, it starts to oxidize and loss flavour and nutritional value. We advocate using our product within a week for optimal freshness and taste; that is why we work in small batches and try and have ongoing relationships with customers so they can use what they have and always purchase fresh. We also only produce 100% whole grain flour with nothing added or taken away. Whole grain flour preserves all the goodness that is in the bran and germ, two parts of a grain kernel that are often removed in the milling/production process. The taste difference is amazing. Furthermore, our products are milled from BC grains, some of them grown as close as Aggasiz, BC. This helps local farmers and helps us, as a local processor, build our local business sustain ably.
What was the inspiration? Had you seen someone else doing this, or did it come in one of those late night brainstorms?
I had an idea for the concept during his fieldwork for my MA research in 2009. Meeting with local farmers and learning about the lack of small mills in BC's south, I started buying wheat and milling it by hand at local farmers markets in an effort to teach and engage people; to get them thinking about the central role of grain, flour and bread in our lives. The idea of the bike came later. I had seen a few of these bikes on the internet, but no one actually taking the bike to farmers markets and milling on site. Our bike set up is a marketing tool, and educational tool and a production aide all at the same time. So, definitely more than a late night brainstorm; the business was started after data analysis and looking for a way to educate people about BC grain growing and help some of these farmers add value to the grain products and help get them directly to consumers as fresh as possible.
The freshest flours, mixes and hot cereals delivered right to the doorstep of your customers. Explain how this works?
In addition to being at a range of farmers markets, See website "CSP program" (community supported processor program) for details
How many products?
See website (products and pricing) for details
White Rock? First visit?
Never been there before! Hoping to interest and engage customers there with our product. Our rep Christine Wekking is excited to meet shoppers and bring the flour peddler's sustainable message to people in the white rock area.
June 14, 2012
SPIRAL DANCE - More Than Just A Dance Studio
 Loretta Sramek and recital dancers
Loretta how long has SPIRAL DANCE made its home in White Rock?
Spiral Dance opened it's doors 19 years ago. First on King George and 160th, then 2 years later moved to the Stayte Road Address.
This week (tonight and Friday) you are staging your annual recital of your students. Have you been doing public events such as the recital for a number of years now? Have you always been in the Bell Centre for the Performing Arts?
Since Spiral's first year of business we have always done a Year End Recital. We used t a couple of local theatres, but they were too small. For a few years we even traveled to Abbotsford to do our show at Abby Arts Centre. As soon as Bell Center opened it's doors I was on the list to get dates. I love this theatre as I am so happy that Surrey has a top of the line theatre.
photos courtesy LES BAZSO
Your recital features a wide spectrum of dance performances, from ballet, to hip hop to what I would call interpretive jazz. The thing I found very interesting was the wide range of age groups that performed on Tuesday evening. Could you provide an overview of the age brackets and dance programs you offer?
Spiral has a Recreational program as well as a more intensive Competitive program.
Our Recreational program offers classes from 3 years up to Adult. Those little ones would take Pre-Dance. As they get older they can take Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary.
Our Competitive dancers take ballet,pointe, Jazz, lyrical, Hip Hop, Modern, Contemporary, stage and acro.
Every Recital night is different show. Each night I feature one or more of our competitive teams. Last night you saw our Pre-Co III group ages 9-11 yrs., as well as our International Teen group ages 13-16. As there are 7 different Competitive groups our youngest Juniors are 5-7 years and our Senior group is 16-17 years
In that you have been training young and old dancers for a number of years, I am sure you would classify every graduate as a success story, but are there any particular students that have gone on to pursue their dance goals that have graduated from SPIRAL DANCE?
On any Competitive team you will have those individuals who really want to pursue a career in dance. Only a small few have the natural talent and drive to make it. Spiral has in the past and even presently dancers who are working professionally. Several have taken the Cruise Ship
Route. How fun is that... traveling the world, doing what you love and getting paid. the Company's they have worked with are Princess Cruise Lines,and Disney Cruise Lines.
I have about 5 dancers right now who are working Independent Contemporary Artist in Vancouver. It is a pretty proud Mama Bear moment when I see them performing at the same venues I did when I was their age.
Again one of the things I found interesting was the number of young boys that were featured in the recital. Roughly speaking what is the percentage split between male and female dance students?
I am very fortunate to have so many boys at my Studio. The percentage is still 85% female.
The popularity of Hip Hop has brought them in the door and I have had some really talented Competitive boys who set the stage for other boys to consider doing Tap, Jazz, Ballet etc.
There are a number of obvious attributes the young people receive from the dance lessons. What have your personal observations been in watching the interaction between the students?
One of the biggest things is these young students end up with is life long friends. When you work together (as many of my competitive dancers do ,up to 15 hours a week & more) they develop bonds that run deep. They learn team work, develope incredible time management skills, are put in performance situations where they have to quickly adapt and cooperate.
Plus they learn how to be incredibly sensitive to their bodies so the subtlest of nuance speak volumes.
This week's recital at THE BELL is an incredibly fast paced and professional production. How long does it take to put together the show?
We start working on the show ...pretty much when classes start up in September Choreographic ideas are germinating in the instructors minds. Costume ideas are formulating, and endless hours listening to music to find just the right piece for each group. That is just the in class creativity, the administration organization to make it run seamless is huge.
You obviously have a team that helps create the choreography and costumes. How many production people are involved in creating this very professional slick production?
I have 14 dance instructors, some teach many different styles, other specialize. There are 4 administration staff, including myself at the helm to keep it all ticking along.
Tell us about the special event you are hosting in September through SPIRAL DANCE.
We are pleased and excited to announce that Spiral Dance will once again be hosting ROCKFEST - a dance a thon run over 2 days in support of Free The Children. Our last ROCKFEST raised $8,500 and we built a school in Haiti. We plan to do it again – with the same amount raised, it will allow us to build another school, this time in Kenya.
Please mark your calendars for the weekend of Sept 15th & 16th - it will be a weekend of celebration – with a number of local artists performing and some exciting surprises planned for the registrants., who are looking forward to an inspiring and successful community-supported event
June 08, 2012
Meet Chris Clark Clarke Pet Masseuse
Sundays at the White Rock Farmers' Market
 Chris In Action
Oh the times they are a changin' - and no way more eveident that how pet owners care for their animals. On a recent visit to the White Rock Farmers' Market. On a recent trip through the market I was drawn towards MERIDIAN MASSAGE for DOGS and CATS. Meet Chris Clarke.
Chris first of all, how did you come to be a dog & cat massage therapist? Is therapist the correct terminology?
I am a small animal massage practitioner level 1 from the North West School of Animal Massage located in Washington state.
I have been showing dogs for the last 20 years and have attended the America Pet Dog Trainers Conference in San Jose a few years ago, meeting such
luminaries in the dog world as Temple Grandin, Ian Dunbar and Suzanne Clothier. I got interested in dog Massage when I saw how it was of benefit to my own dog as
well as my friend's dogs, especially the dogs in agility and dog shows.
Most people know the attributes of a massage for humans, are animal massages similar in benefits?
Very much the same benefits, eliminating waste products from the muscles, increasing range of motion for the limbs, and encouraging healing in the joints and muscle bellies, and it can have an effect on movement as well as digestion and the lymphatic system.
What are some of the most common problems an owner and you can discover by giving a dog or a cat a massage?
You can discover old adhesions and possibly ligament and tendon issues, imbalance in the way an animal gaits, moves, and figure out how to correct that.
It can release tension ( EG: Cats moving from one house to a new house) or dogs with stress issues. Common problems are dogs with unbalanced muscles, and overuse Or underuse, of muscles, recovery from surgery and atrophy of muscle tissues.
I noticed you giving a boxer dog owned by fellow merchants Judy & Dave. He seemed a little anxious at first but then seeme to settle down. Dogs for the most part love to be petted, but do you find they are a little leary when you actually start to massage?
They can be, it was a windy day, there was a lot of flapping in the tent and people around. I would probably choose to massage the dog on the ground nexttime. Dogs give out signals, very much more than cats (cats have less facial muscles than dogs) we use calming signals that dogs would use with each other, yawning, turning away and calm breathing will help a dog settle. Also we
start out with passive touch, move in to efflurage and it usually calms the dog. We just wait until the dog is in a good place and they tell us by licking of lips,
yawns and relaxing. We never force a dog to do anything it is not happy with and also we aim to massage what they are happy with. There is a different set of plans for every dog. There are about 5 different parts to a dog massage but it can depend on what the dog needs or is willing to have done.
Cats on the other hand from my limited experience are not as willing to let total strangers get too close to them. Is this a prolem and how do you
overcome it?
We need to let the cat's own curiosity over come barriers. The cat needs to be comfortable coming to us. Cat's have whiskers on their back and legs, and are sometimes very sensitive to touch. Massage is great or cats mostly around the jaws and sinuses. They are an interesting species!
Regular visitors to the White Rock Farmers' Market are well aware the operators of the market encourage pets on leash to accompany their owners to the market. It is a very dog friendly environment. What generally is the reaction from dog owners when they see your massage booth? What are some
of the most common questions?
I have only been there two Sundays so ask me in a few weeks!!!!
Do you provide this service besides just at the market? If so how would someone who is interested in having their dog or cat receive a massage.
Yes, I can do massage in the guardians home or in mine. I would do a complete hour plus analysis of the dog, gait, previous injuries, concerns and contraindications such as heart disease.
I have many resources for nutritional information and behavior.
This is by NO MEANS a replacement, or alternative for Vet care. I do NOT diagnose!
I can be reached at iceni@telus.net or 604 861-9876 website is pending!
Thank you Chris. We look forward to seeing you Sundays at the White Rock Farmers' Market. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. near the famous whale wall in uptown White Rock on Johnston Road.
May 23, 2012
Meet HELEN FATHERS. As if being a full time mother and a White Rock City Councillor wasn't enough to fill up her dance card, HELEN 8 years ago took on the added respnsibility of managing White Rock's weekly Farmers' Market.
Under FATHERS direction the market has become an epicentre for the community to gather. It will only take you one visit to see and feel the power of community at work every Sunday at the White Rock Farmers' Market
The popular market is entering its 13th year of operation. For the past few years the market has made its home in the Miramar Village in uptown White Rock adjacent to the famed Whale Wall. Today HELEN takes time out of her very busy schedule to bring us up to date on how things are looking for the White Rock Farmers' Market this year.
Many residents of South Surrey and White Rock have now turned visiting the market Sunday mornings into a weekly routine. What will we see new this year at the market?
Lots, starting the season with over 76 vendors - special event days this year include Opening Day May 27, Shred 4 Kids June 10, Library Live and on tour -Fathers Day June 17,Canada Day July 1, Doggy Day July 15, Aug 12 Kids Day. Mary Hartwell Scholarship Fund Day Aug 19 - we are giving away a scholarship grant of $2500 in the name of our late and great Director Mary Hartwell who passed away last year of Cancer.
We also have new service vendor offering Dog Obedience Class taking place on the grassy area behind the coffee stand.
I understand you have a few surprises planned for Canada Day this year at the market.
 Tommy Alto
Red and white and all things Canadian, also great music Act called Tommy Alto - Have you heard of him David?
(editor's note - I am well aware of the talented TOMMY ALTO. TOMMY recently won The White Rock Sun's Diamond In The Rock oOuth Talent Search at Blue Frog Studios in April of this year)
In your position of White Rock Councillor you recently took part in a meeting relating to Food Sustainability on Fraser Valley farmland. What did you personally take from the meeting?
We need to focus on feeding our families, children, community the best food we can. We need to make sure that food is accessible to all people at all times. We need to take care of those less fortunate than ourselves. We need to create policies that support these principles and incorporate them into our society.
A very popular part of the market is the community cafe area where patrons of the market can sit and relax while enjoying the weekly feature musical entertainer. Please tell us the music will return this year. Do you have any idea of who some of this years entertainers will be?
 This week's feature entertainer is CHANEL STASIUK a fnalist in the White Rock Sun's DIAMOND IN THE ROCK Youth Talent Search, and what a talent she is!
Yes , this is always a favorite of everyone. We have most of the musicians from last year, Doug Towle, Heidi McCurdy, Pancho and Sal, Chanel Stasiuk plus the Great Mardinni and a young street dancer Ryan. We are in for a great season.
As one walks through the dozens of stalls at the market you can't help but notice there is a very strong feeling of community. Friends and neighbours stopping to talk and catch up on the happenings around town. What are some of your personal favourite things about the market?
I have always enjoyed the strong sense of community that the farmers market encourages , I also love the fresh farm produce, the artisans breads and the unique jewelry that I have purchased and treasured over the years. There is nothing like getting home after the long hours at Market and preparing the evening meal with wonderful fresh produce. It makes it all worthwhile.
Do you have a "bucket list" of long range things you would like to see the White Rock Farmer's Market become?
Yes, More food vendor trucks, we are a hungry lot you know!! It would be ideal to have what Vancouver has - a very diverse sub-culture of foodies- eating at our local market. Also more community groups, more artists and performers, I would love to have a chalk drawing artist. During my youth growing up in England most weekends we would catch the bus into Nottingham town Centre, there was always street performers and chalk artist creating masterpieces on the pavement and sidewalks. These pieces of art would stay on the pavement until the rain came and washed them away, then the next week new ones were started. It was great and magical to watch these artists create their masterpiece. Would'nt it be great if our White Rock had this?.
It certainly would Helen. Thank you for providing an overview of this year's White Rock Farmer's Market. Visit the market in uptown White Rock Sundays 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Vendors - Sunday May 27 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Music by “Chanel Stasiuk” Performance by” The Great Marrdini
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Art – Craft Bazaar
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Baroness Ashley hats
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Blackberry Hill
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Brain food snacks
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Chefs Natural choice sausages
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Christina’s garden
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Class act stone
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Claw foot spa
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Coffee Tent – Sam Miguel Fair Trade Coffee
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Cottage Books
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Knitting Chair - knitted bags
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Cravings Kettle Korn – fresh kettle korn
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Culinary Blossoms
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Dingolay Jewellery
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Elanne’s reflexology
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European Breads – Bread and Baked Goods
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EZ Bones Electric Bikes – electric bikes
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Fieldstones Artisan Breads
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Fieri del sol, flowers and body products
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Fresh n Home
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Fresh off the boat
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Gesundheit Bakery
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Glen Valley Organic Farm – Organic Veggies
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Golden Ears Cheese works – artisan cheese
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Good Day Sunshine Cafe
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Gracious Gowns – Kids stuff
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Great Himalayan Foods – Whole foods
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Green Works Living Plants – plants and containers
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Hello Friends bakery
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Hinda’ s Finest Foods
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Jeannie Degand
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Jenna’s Jewellery
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Jess Rice Arts
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Judy’s Country Kitchen – Baked Goods
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Mann Farms – Farm fresh produce
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Melias Enterprise
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Meridian Cat and Dog Massage services
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Miss Bossy Boots
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Natural Village – Farm
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Nouveau Shades – jewellery design
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Outwest Ranch
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Owl always love ya – handmade recycled designer wear
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Patisserie Triebow
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Paul Rindje Farm and Veggies
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Pink Gargoyle
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Rascal Goodies – candied popcorn
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Richmond Specialty Mushrooms – Organic Mushrooms
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Roadhouse Bakery – Artisans Bread
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Rockweld Organic Chicken farm
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Rustic Gourmet Foods – soups, sandwiches, chillies
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Sandy’s Dog Training services
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Schatzi Bath and Body
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Silver and Stones
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Simply Delish Soups and salads
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Smart Tea Company- teas, baths, and herbology
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Sweet Thea Cakes – Baked goods
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Trommell Greenhouse
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Valley gold bee
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Wyndson Farm
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Zodies Barkery – Dog treats
+Music by “Chanel Stasiuk” Performance by” The Great Marrdini
May 08, 2012
Prior to Friday's opening of the third location of HEMPYZ in the Fraser Valley we had the opportunity to sit down with RANDY CAINE the owner HEMPYZ to find out a bit about the new store in White Rock.
RANDY I understand you grew up in the Surrey/Langley area of the Fraser Valley so you are obviously no stranger to White Rock. Do you have any fond memories of the City By The Sea?
I was raised during a time when almost all families took summer holidays together. I remember many great summer days at the beach in White Rock. During the 60's White Rock was a real summer draw for families and mine was one of them. At that time many of the homes were summer rentals only. Quite different now.
The HEMPYZ in White Rock is your third store in the area. You have two stores in Langley. The original store which is located in the "old town" section of Langley on the Fraser Highway and the second locale near the Willowbrook Mall. When did you open the first store and how long after that was the location at Willowbrook opened?
The first Hempyz opened in October, 2008. The original store was just 350 sq. ft. In 2010 I expanded, taking over the store next to Hempyz for a total of 800 sq. ft.
Early in 2011 I noticed a location near Willowbrook Mall had come available and was fortunate to be able to lease it. We opened Hempyz #2 on July 1, 2011, Canada Day.
The two stores seem to have a little bit of a different feel. Would you concur and if so please describe the general feel and focus and the differences between the two stores.
Very good point. The Hempyz business model has two components, "boutique style" gift and novelty stores and a large retail outlet. The boutiques are located in areas with high pedestrian traffic. These locations are smaller and offer a more intimate "Hempyz" experience. They are also very family friendly.
The retail outlet is simply that, a complete retail experience. It is intended to offer a more adult experience. At this location, in addition to gifts and novelties, we also carry a large selection of pipes, bongs, vaporizers,etc. As this store is in a low pedestrian traffic area it is more of a "destination location".
What type of products will you be selling at the HEMPYZ location in White Rock?
Hempyz is a '60 cultural experience. From Freak Brothers comic books to pot leaf ice cube trays and muffin pans, from Cheech and Chong to hemp clothing and cosmetics Hempyz intends to amuse and delight.
The vast majority of people reading this interview with you will have no idea of the importance of hemp products and how important they have been to society over the years. Could you give us the Coles Notes version on the attributes and benefits of hemp products.
While hemp might not save the planet it clearly is a plant with many uses. Historically it has been around since recorded time but due to its association with marijuana it fell into disrepute for about 70 years. Starting in the early '90s hemp products began finding their way back into the market. The uses for hemp and hemp related products are quite extensive. It is used in the manufacturing of clothing, edible/cooking oil, cosmetics, plastics, concrete, fuel oils, salves, paper, etc. In fact, Henry Ford built a car almost completely out of hemp products in the 1920's. It also used hemp oil as a fuel. At Hempyz we carry an array of hemp products for the consumer to try.
 
In addition to the local traffic walking and driving by your front door on Marine Drive, was the tourist market of the beach a factor when you chose the White Rock location?
It was the combination of both that caught my interest. Hempyz has spent the last 3+ years developing brand recognition. With the diversity of the tourists coming to White Rock, the new store will definitely add to that recognition as we expand into other communities in the Fraser Valley.
I find the story of how in part you came to locate your third store in White Rock. Could you elaborate on your "Angel Maureen" and how this business owner of the Angelic Tea pot played a role in you opening your third store in White Rock.
That is a wonderful story. The owner of Hempyz new location, Al, had been informed by his most recent tenant that they would not be renewing their lease, a common problem for many owners of retail sites on the strip. Seeking advise from the owner of "Angelic Teapot" on what business might be a good mix, Maureen told him that a "hemp store" would be a great idea. Shortly after that conversation Maureen and her husband were in Langley and came upon the Willowbrook location of Hempyz. As Maureen says, I loved the look and feel of the store so much I contacted Al telling him to give the owner of Hempyz a call to see if he might be interested in coming to White Rock...and I was. The rest, as they say, is history.
Given the fact you have spent a number of hours renovating your new location in White Rock have you formed any new impressions of the city?
White Rock has undergone many changes over the years. From its former glory as a THE place for vacationing families to spend summer holidays, to its most recent position as a tourist "day trip" locale it seems that a return to its early days is much needed. While the area has tremendous potential to become a place of "fun in the sun" it has lost some of its more eclectic nature. A need for increased diversity in the businesses on the strip would help bring more people to the beach and to the local retailers. I believe Hempyz will help kick-start that as it did on the one-way in "Old Langley".
 14967 Marine Drive, White Rock 778-545-0095
In closing Randy here is your opportunity to personally invite the readers of The White Rock Sun to drop in for a visit.
As Hempyz has been welcomed into the community, we want to extend the same warm welcome. Come on down and meet KAT THOMAS the manager of the White Rock location and her helpful staff. You will also find that Hempyz has something for everyone, young and old.
 KAT THOMAS
Kat you have now been behind the counter at HEMPYZ new location White Rock for a few days now. How are things going?
White Rock is amazing, people are very friendly, laid back. Super nice people. White Rock is a very beautiful place, a reflection of White Rock people.
Where is home?
My husband and I have lived in Langley for 8 years. We have spent a lot of time in White Rock even before the shop opened here. My husband is a tea freak so we often have made the trip to the ANGELIC TEAPOT. We always love walking along the promenade and sampling all the great restaurants in White Rock.
KAT do you have any special interests?
I read a lot. I have about 7-8,000 books and probably 1,000 novels on my laptop, I also own a ferret which I named Kilgore trout. I have a number of tattoos that mostly relate to literary themes. I noticed the other day their is a tattoo parlour on East Beach so I need to stop in there and check them out. I also start my day every morning with a nice big juice from BOOSTER JUICE, one of our neighbours on Marine Drive. Come on by and say hello.
May 02, 2012
Jan's On The Beach
14989 Marine Drive White Rock, BC
Today we are talking with Gord and Jan Wait. The owners and operators of one of the newly opened dining establishments on the White Rock waterfront, JAN'S ON THE BEACH.
 Gord & Jan Wait
First let's get the introductions established, ladies first. JAN is this your first restaurant? First one I've owned yes. I've been in the restaurant industry for 6 years, most recently at Horizons' on Burnaby Mountain where I apprenticed under Executive Chef John Garret and completed my Red Seal in 2010.
Gord what is your relationship to JAN'S ON THE BEACH?
(Gord)
Jan and I are married, and co-owners of the restaurant. I'm the all round repair, marketing, internet guy, as well as my new title "Professional Shopper". I work full time in the electronics industry but help out at the restaurant whenever/wherever I can.
Do you make your home in the area?
(Gord)
Yes, Jan and have been North Delta residents for 25 years. We both grew up in Richmond BC. White Rock beach has long been a favourite destination of ours.
You describe your menu as "tapas." For uninitiated would you mind giving us a brief description of what is meant by the term tapas?
(Gord)
Tapas is a Spanish word, loosely translates to "Appetizer". We had fallen in love with the idea of Tapas/Share Plates and became complete
converts when we spent two weeks in Barcelona, Spain in the summer of 2010, trying out many Tapas style restaurants there.
We've co-opted the term and call ours "Fusion Tapas". We offer appetizer items from various cultural palates. For example our Quinoa
Fritters with Romesco Sauce combines the tastes of Peru and Spain. Our Prawn Trio offers Greek, South Asian and Mexican seasoned Prawns on
one plate.
Restaurants come and go on the White Rock waterfront. What was it in particular that drew you to opening your new dining establishment along
Marine Drive in White Rock?
 
(Jan)
We had been looking for a location to try out our restaurant concept, and when we found this opportunity right on Marine Drive with a great
ocean view we could not resist! As Gord mentioned, White Rock beach was already a favourite destination for us, and we couldn't ask for a
better location.
How would you describe the menu at JAN'S ON THE BEACH?
(Jan)
Our specialty is the Fusion Tapas concept, offering a variety of tastes to share (or not!) for an evening of dining.
We are also adding some traditional style entrees to the menu, such as a New York steak with grilled vegetables and onion jus, and a roasted
tomato Italian sausage and penne pasta.
 You can't come to White Rock and not have fish n' chips
We also offer a "Patio Menu" with some beach style favourites, such as our "Fish Bites and Fries" with home made tartar sauce and coleslaw -
our take on the classic fish and chips, a requirement for any ocean view restaurant!
What would you say are your signature dishes that are resonating with the patrons of JAN'S ON THE BEACH?
(Jan) I would say our Halibut Cheeks with Crispy Prosciutto and Tomato Risotto has been a hit, as well as our Mongolian Lamb Chops with Wild
Mushroom Risotto.
(Gord) Don't forget our "Lettuce Unwrapped" - grilled pork tenderloin medallions on a bed of lettuce, with all the ingredients of a
traditional lettuce wrap dish turned into a vegetable salsa and finished with Hoisin sauce!
What are the hours of operation for JAN'S ON THE BEACH. By chance are you open for breakfast, a time of day most restaurants along the strip seem to avoid like the plague?
Our hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 am to 9 pm, and Sundays 9 am to 8 pm. Yes, we are open for Breakfast and Lunch as well, which definitely seems to be a hit with the locals!
 L-R Kayla Goll (Server), Janet Wait (Executive Chef, Manager, Owner), Nick
McFarlane (Line Cook), Lisa Nicole (Server)
You have been open for a month or so now, but you have your Grand Opening scheduled for this Saturday beginning at 5 p.m. Tell us a bit about the
fun you have planned for Saturday.
(Gord)
We've been so busy starting up that we haven't had a chance to plan our Grand Opening until now. This Saturday is our chance to celebrate and hopefully introduce ourselves to "the strip". We're going to have some dinner specials,some live music, some tasting samples through the evening, offer up some cake, and we'll also do a free draw for dinner for two at 7 pm and another at 8 pm.
We're hoping people will drop by for dinner, or just stop in to say hi and see what we have to offer. Come and check out the renovations we made, offering an open kitchen plan inside, and a brand new ocean view deck.
If you ever have time do you watch any of the cooking shows? If so, which are your favourites?
(Jan)
All of them! Actually we're fans of the earlier Gordon Ramsey shows,the Top Chef Canada/America show, as well as Anthony Bourdain's
various shows.
On those rare nights that you find yourself with free time, and you don't feel like cooking at home, do you have a favourite dining spot on the
Semiahmoo Peninsula?
(Jan) There are a number of places we'd love to try but haven't had the chance yet. Some favourites would be Uli's (that burger really is as good as they say, and they make excellent soups), Le Vol au Vant, Five Doors down, and up at Five Corners we really enjoyed Share Small Plate and Wine bar.
 Fully licensed. Call us for reservations and info 604 531-5444 or vist our website
January 24, 2012
 Claudia and Jin Cho
 Corner of Vidal & Marine Drive on the White Rock waterfront
Today we are talking with JIN CHO the owner of a new coffee shop/ice cream parlour on White Rock's waterfront. JIN how long have you been the operator of WHITE'S COFFEE & ICE CREAM?
It's been four months.
Did you previously have a business similar to WHITE'S?
Yes, I used to run a Coffee and Gelato shop in Langley. Also I owned another restaurant for 15 years.
Previously your business was called White Mountain Ice Cream. Is there now more of an effort to expand the menu and the coffee shop part of your
business?
The previous one was mostly about cce cream, but now we are concentrating on qualified coffee and more food. All of our employees have done Baristar training 1, and some of them have done Baristar 2. Also we started to make our own Soup of the day with bun which our regular customers seem to feel happy about. Not only for the menu but also for the shop itself is renovated to a new look recently. New counter top, comfortable tables and chairs, and displays make the shop more modern.
What are your hours of operation? What time do you open, and when do you close daily?
In winter time, we open at 7 am till about 7 pm.
In spring and summer time, we open from 7 am to 11 pm.
What is it about WHITE'S that makes it a special business to frequent when we make a trip down to the waterfront district of White Rock?
You will see this is the only place that offers a fantastic ocean view when you have creamy ice cream or real fruit frozen yogurt along with Latte or Americano. Homemade soup with bun will make your day so perfect.
Do you live in the area? Tell the readers of The White Rock Sun a bit about your personal history.
My wife Claudia and I live in South Surrey. We moved here 4 years ago from Lac La Hache in the Cariboo where we had a restaurant and a gas station right on HWY 1. People there are very passionate and friendly. They are still like my family. When we decided to come to the Vancouver area, we searched every corner of greater Vancouver area looking for a perfect place for raising my kids. We wanted a nice school and a lot of nature at the same time. That's why we bought a house around White Rock. I think White Rock is most beautiful and educational city in BC. We love it here so much.
Describe your family to us please.
My beautiful wife Claudia and two children. I have an 8 year old son who attends a local Catholic school, and he loves God. My 4 year old daughterl goes to Day care. She is very active and cute. Both of my children's favourite places are the White Rock beach.
What do you think the best thing is about having a business in White Rock?
We always meet generous and kind customers here. They know how to enjoy their lives I think. They enjoy coffee watching the ocean. I am so lucky to have a business on th4 waterfront whee I can meet so many wonderful people.
In closing, do you have a secret you would like to share with us? Your favourite other restaurant? Favourite shop to visit, or perhaps a place on
the Semiahmoo Peninsula you go to visit to connect with mother nature? A favourite walk etc?
Most of the Business down in White Rock beach is very unique and special. I try to visit every single business around here (Fish and Chips is my favourite lunch in summer). My wife loves Wings and Five Doors Down. Of course the Boat House has yummy seafood, too.
January 18, 2012
 Cheryl Morgan & James Gregory
If you have visited the Semiahmoo Mall in the last few months, you had to have noticed a beautiful new store that has opened in the mall. CHERYL'S TRADING POST has an extensive collection of first nations art, jewelry, clothing and carvings.
Recently we had the opportunity to sit down with the two owners the husband and wife team of CHERYL MORGAN and JAMES GREGORY to learn about the history of CHERYLS'S TRADING POST.
CHERYL please tell us a bit about your background and how you came to open your "Trading Post?"
Well, I am a Gitxsan Woman. I grew up in Gitwangak Village, and every summer we travelled for fishing along the coast at the mouth of the Skeena River.
My father ran a mill in Gitwangak and had a logging camp, as well as fishing in the summer, spring and fall. My father was also a Chief Councillor for some time. At that time, all my grandparents and relatives were fishers and loggers. My mom worked net mending, knitting, and baking, and now has a successful business called Peggy's Pie House in Hazelton, BC. I was also influenced by my Auntie Dolly and Cousin Annie Watts who successfully ran Lilligit Feast House and wrote a book called Where People Feast and continue in Port Alberni, BC to sell bannock.
My husband James and I got married and together we ventured on a New Journey together. We researched various business ideas then when my husband asked me what kind of a store I would want to have and I told him I have always liked and enjoyed gift stores the best. From there we worked together. We had a few locations in mind, and had to be patient. When Semiahmoo Shopping Centre opened up we were happy to be welcomed here. And we had already been working on and planning our products for sometime.
We opened October 7th, 2011 before Christmas and have been well received since.
 
JAMES what is your background? Have you considered a store like Cheryl's Trading Post for awhile?
I'm a mixed blood Indian from Micmac territory. I've been involved in Native culture for quite a while - Native spirituality and traditional trading. I'm fortunate to have a lot of friends and contacts who are very good artists as well as being deeply involved in their own cultures. So it's been easy to work together with Cheryl to get the store going.
Could you tell me how you chose the Semiahmoo Mall for the location of Cheryl's Trading Post?
We liked the store because it's large and has lots of window to display our art. It's a beautiful area near the beach. And the people in White Rock/South Surrey appreciate our handmade products. We're happy this spot opened up for us.
Is this your first store of this nature?
Yes this is our first store.
What was your inspiration and driving force behind wanting to open the store?
We wanted to do something that we loved that would give us the freedom to be our own bosses. Also we wanted to work with and promote Native arts and culture.
You have a wide variety of merchandise in your store. You have a very extensive line of clothing. Please tell us about some of the interesting clothing items you have in stock?
We decided that we wanted to go with Aboriginal Authentic that included North, South, and Central Americas. We have North West Coast cedar hats, jewelry, ornaments, and baskets and bags. We purchase the locally produced clothing items like t-shirts and hoodies directly from the designers themselves. We also have sweaters, hats and gloves hand knit by Inca Indians in Peru and Ecuador. And also Inca cloth handmade of yarn and thread from their own animals, dyed with plants from their own land.
Do you in some cases have one on one contact with the carvers that have created the items in your store?
Mostly we deal directly with the artists themselves. Many are personal friends or relatives.
 Beautiful selection of custom blankets
The motto on your business card states "Preserving Traditional Art, Supporting Native Communities, Sharing Success With Others, Celebrating Native Values and History. Could you explain in a little further detail the feelings behind this mission statement. How have you and how will you continue to implement these goals?
We believe artists should be paid fairly for their work. The training to become a Native artist is lengthy, deep, and intensive. Our North West Coast art is the product of many generations of culture learned on this land. We implement our goals by ensuring that our products are authentic and handmade by Natives of the Americas.
Thank you to James and Cheryl for taking the time to let us get to know a bit of the history of Cheryl's Trading Post. Located in the Semiahmoo Mall in South Surrey.
December 14, 2011
WINGS White Rock Under New Management
 Ravi Reddy Manager WINGS White Rock
The WINGS restaurant chain arrived in White Rock a couple of years ago. During that period of time the restaurant has connected with young folks looking for a cold pitcher and a hot plate of chicken wings. Recently the restaurant went through a major change.
WINGS WHITE ROCK is now under new management. Today we get to know RAVI REDDY and a bit about the circumnavigating trip he followed to finally arrive in "Our City By The Sea."
RAVI could you tell the readers how your career in the food and hospitality industry began?
Well I have been in the hospitality industry for over 25 years. You might say I am a people person. I began my career with Hilton International back in 1985. I was the financial controller for them in Dubai, UAE. I also worked for Hilton International in the Middle East, Africa and in Europe.
The hospitality industry has always been my passion and I have been fortunate enough to have gained experience throughout the world.
How did you end up coming to Canada and what were your first impressions of a wintery Canada?
My family and I moved to Canada about 10 years ago. I was travelling back and forth from the Middle East, for a period of time after my family had moved to Canada. We moved here due to the high standard of living that Canada has to offer.
The weather is Canada was definitely a lot different than what we had experienced in the Middle East. Although the winters can get cold, I thank Vancouver has amazing weather - a good mix of heat and cold. It is beautiful here.
Like many immigrants to Canada you very quickly ascertained the winters in Eastern Canada may not be to your liking, and you headed West. What happened when you touched down in British Columbia?
British Columbia is beautiful. The rain and cold for a few months is worth all the other benefits of living here. I love British Columbia. After all my travels around the world I think this is the most beautiful part of the world I have seen.
How did you become connected with the WINGS location in White Rock?
I was looking to start a new business, preferably in the hospitality industry where I have a great deal of experience. My friend and I came across WINGS and we had a couple of locations to choose from. I had to go with the White Rock location - the area is great and the restaurant is so warm and cozy.
WINGS has now been under your direction for a couple of months How are you finding operating a restaurant on the waterfront in White Rock?
The location as I said is beautiful. It gets a little slow in the winter but I am getting to see a lot of repeat customers and also customers from all over the Lower Mainland. It's great to meet all sorts of people.
 Sami Ghawi host the singer songwriter nights Tuesdays @ WINGS
My goal for WINGS is to offer the highest level of customer service. I want my customers happy and that is all that matters. I have been doing everything I can to make sure this happens. I recently started an Original Singer's night hosted by Sami Ghawi. It is starting to build quite nicely. Sami will be away now until January, but I would like to take this opportunity to welcome and singers to the restaurant every Tuesday 6:30 - 10 p.m.
Tell us a little bit about how many different chicken wings you have on the menu, and some of the other interesting food items you serve up daily?
We have 20 different flavors of chicken wings. everything at our restaurant arrives fresh daily. Nothing served at WINGS is ever frozen. All our food items are prepared fresh daily. We are offering a special feature every Wednesday and Sunday. Our wings are all half price. The wings are 39 cents each which means diners can enjoy a full pound of wings for under $5.00. We also have a full menu of items from soups and salads to burgers and steaks and many other items fresh on our menu.
Let's get personal to end this conversation Ravi. Do you make your home in the area? Tell us a bit about your family?
I live in South Surrey with my family - my wife and 2 daughters who are now both in university. All three members of my family work here at the restaurant, my wife helps in the kitchen and my daughters are hostesses. We also have a small Chihuahua named Francesco.
In closing do you have any final message to the White Rock/South Surrey readers of the White Rock Sun?
I would like everyone to know that we are here for them! My customer's satisfaction is our top priority and we will do everything we can to make sure their dining experience is a pleasurable one. This comes from my background with Hilton International. I have been through many courses and seminars in the Hilton system and we will always focus on customer satisfaction. This is what I hope to bring to the dining experience at WINGS in White Rock. Believe it or not from the day I took over back on July1st I have not taken a single day off; I will only do that when all my customers give me positive feedback of my restaurant, staff and our food. I look forward to meeting and serving the wonderful residents of White Rock and South Surrey.
November 03, 2011
ELLE'S KITCHEN Hillcrest Plaza
 Marc Mackenzie and Lauren
A beautiful new dining experience opened in October in White Rock. Today the first of a two part series to get to know the owners of ELLES KITCHEN.
We sat down with LAUREN to find out her background and how she came to be in partnership in the newest restuarant on the culinary landscape in White Rock
Lauren please tell me about your personal history in White Rock?
I first came to White Rock in 2006. My daughter Kaiya started kindergarten here and my son Roman was born here in 2007 at Peace Arch Hospital. I moved away to downtown Vancouver in 2008 to take on an Executive position in a large Market Research firm but after several moves Marc and I decided White Rock should be home again. My brother Roland House lives here and my children's aunt, Lauri Weins lives three blocks from our home and is a teacher at Earl Marriott. Our family came first and they are here.
You and your partner Marc have opened a beautiful little cafe in uptown White Rock called Elle's. Where does the name Elle come from?
Elle is my nickname. I call Marc 'M' and he calls me 'L' but he has always spelled it 'elle'. I was not sure if I wanted to be the focus of our joint venture naming our café after myself but it's a little late to change it now!
From the time you and Marc decided on opening a restaurant how long did it take you to find your location? Is there anything in particular that made you choose this locale?
Marc and I had thought about opening a restaurant for years, it was just a matter of finding a community which we felt embraced us so in turn we could embrace it. Once we settled on White Rock it literally took a month for Marc to find this amazing little space. It bordered on the 'old' and 'new' development in White Rock and with it comes a new and exciting demographic. We took this as a huge opportunity to bring something new to the table that could unite the two.
Do you and Marc share the cooking duties? How and when do you decide on your daily specials?
Marc and I both take on not only the cooking duties but we also both contribute new ideas for our specials. To be honest, most ideas come the night before. We really just like making food our family or ourselves would order or enjoy. Elles kitchen is a reflection of our tastes and curiosity with food.
Though you have only been open a month what are your first impressions of operating a business in White Rock?
We love it! We love the community, the fascinating people, amazing fellow retailers and just the overwhelming positive response we have received from all of them.
You and Marc have a blended family. Tell me a bit about your children please.
Both Marc and I were adopted as infants so it comes as no great stretch to have such a unique family dynamic. Our children are the result of a previous relationship but Marc holds the title of dad. Our son Roman is 4 years old and the comic genius of our family where as our daughter Kaiya, 9 years old, is the studious artist. She is part of the excellence program in school, as she is far beyond her years and expresses herself with her artwork; one of which she has lent to our café and others showcased in the Hope Art Gallery where her Grandmother Mackenzie curates. We have been blessed with polite, kind and abnormally smart and socially adjusted children. I am sure most parents say this but this is what most parents tell us so we are inclined to believe it!
Is there a special place, a trail, a beach perhaps that you consider your place of solace in White Rock?
I wish! Do you know of any great places Marc and I can escape to? So far our only escape here is our home, our children and our family.
If and when you and Marc find time to go out for dinner do you have a favourite restaurant or two on The Peninsula you enjoy dining at?
To be honest, Marc and I have not found the time to go out for dinner but we are looking to find our new favorite sushi place as we need one no matter where we live!
Today we sit down with MANDI SIHOTA of SURREY.COM. Mandi first of all let's start off with you explaining your position at SURREY.COM
I am the project manager and my responsibilities gear towards the overall direction, coordination, implementation, execution, control and completion of projects ensuring consistency with company strategy, commitments and goals.
Tell me a bit about the history of SURREY.COM
Surrey.com was launched by two individuals who live in Surrey and studied at Kwantlen University. We were launched to serve and only serve the local businesses and customers in our community.
There are other redemption type coupons available. How do you feel SURREY.COM differs from other savings site?
We are different because we're a local Surrey company committed to working with local businesses and customers. Unlike the other daily deal companies, who are based in the States and have probably never been to Canada, let alone Surrey, we know the businesses we help to promote, as well as what is convenient and wanted by our customers.
SURREY.COM was an integral part of the White Rock Sea Festival. Do you see SURREY.COM becoming move involved in community events like this in White Rock and Surrey? Are there any other events you will be involved with in the near future.
As we continue to grow, we hope to continue to become more and more involved with the community. Our business was created to help our local community and economy, so it seems only natural to expand into sponsoring community events. Not to mention it's a lot of fun to get out and meet customers, have competitions, and give away prizes.
Please tell our readers a bit about your personal background. How long have you been involved with SURREY.COM.Prior to joining SURREY.COM what is a bit of your personal history?
I moved from the UK about 5 years ago after gaining my Bachelors from the University of Greenwich. I worked for our partner company, Orbital Marketing, prior to transitioning full-time to Surrey.com
Do you make your home in the White Rock/Surrey corridor?
Yes, I live in Surrey.
How do business owners become aligned with Surrey.com ? Unless I am treading into confidential matters could you please explain how does SURREY.COM work as far as how do clients pay, is it per sign up , flat fee or a variation?
Our clients pay a commission for each voucher that is sold. Instead of paying us some flat fee based on an estimate or projection, they only pay for the exact amount of vouchers sold, making it a win-win situation for all parties involved.
In addition to advertising through channels like The White Rock Sun, I am also under the impression people can sign up for daily emails. Tell me how consumers can win prizes by joining your mailing group?
We are always giving away prizes via e-mail and social networking, so it pays to subscribe, like, and follow us wherever possible. Every one of our subscribers are automatically entered into our drawings – whether we are drawing for concert tickets, Canucks tickets, or any other great event in the region.
In closing MANDI on a somewhat personal note, what are some of your favourite activities, restaurants and things to do in Surrey and White Rock?
I am one of Surrey.com's biggest customers, as I love a lot of things we offer on a daily basis. I like trying to new restaurants in the area, shopping at Morgan Crossing, doing Bikram Yoga in White Rock, and running along White Rock beach.
CHILDLIKE - MEG MASKILL
Meg Maskell is organizing a series of beginners Yoga lessons here in White Rock. Meg please tell us a bit about your personal history as it pertains to yoga instruction.
A month after I started practicing yoga, my Dad said to me, "So, you ready to teach yet?" it was meant as a joke, but I never shook it. A year later I found myself wanting to deepen my understanding of the practice as I had a growing group of friends and relatives that were asking for poses to help with this and that ailment. I found the Open Source teacher training with Dan Clement through Live Yoga, which absolutely inspired me.
How long do your yoga courses run? I also understand there are different options (days & times). What are the days and times for the yoga classes?
The workshop I am introducing this month will be running for 4 weeks at Organic Connections Cafe on East Beach. The first night will be a complimentary info session on Thursday Sept 22nd at 7:00pm. After that, there will be a set schedule: Friday morning yoga practice at 9:00am and Sunday morning yoga practice at 9:30am.
Wednesday evenings at 7:00pm I'm creating a space for people to come with any questions they might have about the practice or history of yoga, or perhaps about what they learned that week.I'm encouraging people to come to Wednesday nights even if they have never been in a class or to any of the other workshop sessions. I'm pretty excited about it!
I'm going to create a little haven in there with views of the ocean.
For anyone that has only remotely considered yoga classes would you please expound on the various physical and mental health aspects of yoga?
I can quote books, articles and medical journals for you, but I think it's better if I tell you how yoga has effected my own body. I had chronic back, shoulder and knee pain when I started. I could barely touch my knees let alone my toes! I was a very light sleeper, struggled with anxiety and depression, was pretty much constantly in pain. Yoga strengthens supporting muscles so that the larger muscles that are all stressed out can finally have the help they need. It lengthens connective tissues and helps to reintegrate damaged tissue, knitting it back into active muscle to help it to heal.
The mental benefits are substantial. The practice of learning how to work with and listen
to your body creates a kind of harmony that is often out of balance from our lives of constantly rushing here and there. It literally has helped me to be comfortable in my own skin.
I am sure many reader sof this feature find themselves in the same situation as me. Having considered (only vaguley) taking yoga lessons, what can we expect to experience in the classes?
My goal for the workshop is to be able to make yoga palatable for any participant, and to send you away at the end of the 4 weeks with the confidence to practice at home alone or in a studio if you prefer.
You can expect to be moving, and challenging yourself, and learning a ton about yourself. There will be a little history, a little anatomy, an introduction to the roots of the practice. It won't be boot camp- yoga is meant to be fun, safe and pain free.
Is it necessary for first timers to incur any special costs outside of the enrolment fee? Any special clothing, I would assume we will have to purchase a yoga mat. Can you facilitate that purchase or can you direct us to a location locally where we can purchase the necessary equipment?
The only clothing you need is something comfortable and unrestrictive. I often practice in my favourite pair of holey sweat pants. I will have one or two spare mats on hand, but I do recommend bringing your own. They can be picked up for $20 or less everywhere from Chapters to Choices, SuperStore to Walmart. If you really get into the practice later and want to upgrade, there are many great mat options depending on what you're looking for. I kept my $20 mat for the first year of my practice.
I will be joining your classes and providing a running commentary in weekly articles on the trials, tribulations and benefits of yoga? Like any exercise one is not used to doing, I am assuming the courses are designed to slowly get us up to steam, so to speak. Are there any health restrictions for a beginner to start yoga?
If you have high blood pressure, have just given birth or are recovering from surgery, it's best to have a chat with your doctor about what your body may or may not be ready for. I ask all of my students to let me know if they have any health concerns or body quirks I should know about. There are all sorts of options for people with knee, wrist, balance, shoulder problems, etc.
The classes appear to be co-ed correct?
The classes are absolutely co-ed! Come one, come all! I will be holding them in the main dining room of Organic Connections Cafe, 15622 Marine Drive. Parking is free on the 'Drive until 10am, and there is a bus stop right outside the cafe. There are directions on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/OrganicConnectionsCafe?sk=info
In closing Meg please tell me a bit about your personal history here on the Semiahmoo Peninsula. Do you live locally? How long have you lived here? What do you find to be the most endearing qualities of living in White Rock/South Surrey.
I returned from travelling last winter and wanted a change from my home in Whistler where I've spent the last decade of my life. My good buddy, Ryan Bissell from Uli's Restaurant, had been trying to talk me into checking out White Rock for over a year. With the invitation on the table, I started hunting for Yoga Teacher Training schools and found myself living here the last week of June.
I'm hooked. My favourite quality about this area is the way that people still interact with each other in a very human way. People nod and say hello and start conversations with you just in passing. The visitors walking along the beach have big smiles on their faces. This is the sort of place where families can create fond memories, and a lady walking down the street at night can feel safe.
I think most of us have that special "zen" place we can slip away to on the Semiahmoo Peninsula. Where is yours?
Do I have to choose just one? I love East Beach, especially when the tide is out and you can walk for miles over the sand and wade through the tide pools. I also enjoy the walk along the promenade, those amazing ocean views. And the trees! I've tried to choose my favourite tree, but I think it's a hopeless task. Every day I discover another ancient beauty to sit under for a spell. There are a few people watching benches I also especially enjoy. I do love being in the marketplace surrounded by people as much as I enjoy being alone under a tree.
What are your favourite things to do in the White Rock area? Ane favourite shops, restaurants or activities you enjoy in the area?
Uli's Restaurant! Best Burger In Town! A little known secret is they also have the very best veggie burger of all time. Dolce Gelato is a personal addiction. I can't even handle it. The sour cherry, or the meringue...I dream about it sometimes.
Weekends breakfast at 5 Corners. A cup of Merlin's Magic black tea from Small Ritual. A burrito from El Taco, conveniently located directly under the house where I live.
But I've only been here for three months! I have so many other places to investigate and fall in love with.
You can tell I'm rather motivated by my tummy.
*All illustrations by Meg Maskell
September 09, 2011
White Rock's New Antique/Collectible Store
AMAZING CONSIGNMENT recently opened on Johnston Road across the street from Hillcrest Mall. We recently stopped into the beautiful appointed store and sat down for a conversation with the manager Norma Devi.
NORMA is this your first antique collectible store?
No I have had other antique and collectible stores in other locations in Canada and the United States, most recently in Florida
What made you choose White Rock as the location for AMAZING CONSIGNMENT?
Well I chose White Rock for the store because I live here. I had been thinking about opening a store here and when I saw this space become available I took it. We have now been open for just under 2 months
Your store name is AMAZING CONSIGNMENT. Is it safe to say you are interested in hearing from members of our community that may have some collectibles and antiques in their home they may be considering selling?
Yes I encourage residents in the area to come by and see the merchandise I have in stock. If they choose to do so and they are able to bring the item(s) with them that would be fine by me. I would also like the readers to know I handle estate sales as well, through my store.
Do you only take items on consignment, or do you in some cases outright purchase items?
That depends on the item and how much the person is asking for the item. But I do purchase outright as well as take items on consignment.
What is the most unique item someone has brought in for consignment?
Oh there have been a number of unusual items over the years. One day someone came in and wanted to know if I was interested in purchasing a life size replica of a horse, I had to laugh because I did not have the space for an item that large. You just never know what the next person that comes through the door is interested in selling. I like that. It makes everyday different.
Tell us a bit about some of the more original pieces you have in stock at AMAZING CONSIGNMENT?
Well I have some artwork that dates back to the 1800's. I also have a number of one of a kind very unique antiques and original furniture pieces.
What is your personal history with the Semiahmoo Peninsula? Do you make your home in the area?
I have lived in White Rock for over 4 years. I love living by the water and being able to look out and see the ocean.
The City of White Rock has come up with a new slogan to brand White Rock, it is MY CITY BY THE SEA IS........................... Can you fill in the blank please and tell us what White Rock is to you?
Oh my goodness, well I would have to say MY CITY BY THE SEA IS.........a wonderful place to walk along our beautiful promenade and smell the sea air and look out on the ocean. It really is beautiful here.
One final fact about AMAZING CONSIGNMENT. Norma is very passionate about helping those less fortunate in our community. To that extent AMAZING CONSIGNMENT also will take items for sale or consignment by donation with the proceeds from the sale of the items going to B.C. Mental Health.
 Norma Devi
AMAZING CONSIGNMENT
Buy-Sell-Consign
1446 Johnston Road
White Rock
Hours - Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
604-560-5088
Jennifer - Ravens In Motion
Ravens In Motion is a beautiful stall located at the White Rock Farmer's Market that features numerous first nations carvings, drums and clothing. Today we sit down with Jennifer to find out a little bit more about her booth.
Jennifer is this your first year at the Farmer's Market in White Rock?
Yes, this is our 1st year and we're having a blast. Just for clarification, we are not selling clothing yet. The button blanket you saw was made for me by my cousin who is also an artist/seamstress.
Your website identifies Ravens in Motion specializes in authentic coastal decor, jewelry and accessories. Could you be a little more specific on some of the many items you sell at your booth.
We have many different bird mobiles with First Nations' Art design carved in the bodies, wings and tails. They are brilliantly manufactured to look as though they are flying/soaring through the air. We have an assortment of colors and species. We have humming birds, thunderbird dancers, raven dancers, owls, ravens, bald eagles and golden eagles.
We also have smaller ornaments that can hang from your rear view mirror for example. They come in different animals too: Killer whale dancer, raven dancer, wolf dancer, thunderbird dancer and the eagle dancer.
Our hand made drums come in 3 sizes; 12", 14" & 16". They are made with either, moose, deer or elk hide and cedar rims. They are thought to be the heart beat of mother earth. You can play along with our CD, "Legends" by the Gilhast singers. The Gilhast is said to be the totem pole that connects the earth to heaven from which we came.
Are you personally involved in any of the creations that are available at the booth on Sundays?
Yes, I am personally involved in everything you see at our booth.
I also was amazed at the shawl/cape that you had hanging in your stall. Please tell me a little bit about this particular piece of clothing.
The button blanket with the frog crest was made for me by my cousin, Yolanda Skelton, who is also an artist/seamstress.
My crest is Fireweed which is the same as the killer whale clan but my name means Transformation like the frog in the jelly stage & my grandad was a frog so I have permission to use the frog.
Only a person of high rank
In consulting your web site I found that Ravens In Motion originates from the Gitskan people. Please tell us a bit about the history of the Gitskan people.
Today there are 4 clans: fireweed, frog, eagle & wolf. In each clan there are houses that have many house members. There are more than 50 houses in the Gitxan nation. In other words, our nation is growing and changing.
Have you had an opportunity to check out any of the other vendors at the market? Any recommendations?
Every Sunday varies but I am always amazed at the beautiful talent and ability of people that are out there sharing themselves every weekend. I would encourage everyone to come and see what is being offered especially with Christmas just around the corner.
In closing Jennifer if there is anything else you would like to add about Ravens in Motion in your own words feel free to add anything you would like.
We are a family business enjoying sharing a small piece of our culture with anyone who would like to be a part of it.
Ha' mii yaa / Thank you
Jennifer Gux Wok
Founder of Ravens In Motion, Client Relations
Jennifer is honoured to be the niece of Haxbegwootxw. She joins him in sharing their family’s culture and heritage with the world. It is of great value to her that she has stood side by side with her uncle to learn the craft, hands on, in order to carry on the Gitxsan Artisan culture that is so rich in her family, clan and NW Coastal Native Art. Surrounded from birth by a talented family of artisans, singers, dancers and storytellers, Jennifer is immersed in her culture and language.
Her name, Gux Wok, means “transformation” and is what is called a Nax Nok, a special spiritual name. Jennifer has had the unique privilege of dancing on many occasions with her daughter, Regan, as a NW Coastal dancer at the UBC Museum of Anthropology, as well as for the 2010 Olympics. She was invited to Shanghai,China to represent Canada at the Canada Week celebrations in the private audience the former Governor General of Canada (2005-2010), The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean and other worldwide dignitaries. She considers each of these creative opportunities as a blessing to share her rich culture with the world and break down barriers of prejudice and misunderstanding.
Jennifer is an educator, with university training as a teacher. She is a humble leader in her community, providing support to numerous women as a positive light in empowering women. Jennifer is the person to contact for events, performances, appearances and interviews.
KAREN FARQUHARSON of Sideline Designs.
Karen tell our readers a bit about the many things you have for sale at your booth in the White Rock Farmer's Market.
I definitely have a wide range of products in my tent. I started out selling my tote bags but soon got bored with making just one thing so I started adding items. The crib quilts came next and with that addition it became evident that baby items were a hot commodity. That is why today I make funky all-in-one cloth diapers, animal slippers, body bibs and hats, all for the little ones. For the adults I knit one-of-a-kind shawls which are a huge hit. And then I got involved in making glass beads. I started making bracelets for my daughters organization "Renew Humanity", but decided to bring some to the markets as well.
Do you make all the items in your booth? How long have you been attending the White Rock Farmer's Market?
All of my items are made by myself during evenings after work. This is my 4th year selling at farmers markets, my second in the White Rock market, and I hope to enjoy many more years here. I live in the immediate area which is one great draw to it, but the fact that the organizers are all fantastic and the customers are all lovely makes this a favorite market of mine.
Is there one item that you create that seems to be more popular with your customers?
The one item that I deem my best selling would have to be my quilts. They are an immediate attraction to people and I have many return customers for them. Because people can see the quality of work put into them and the fact that each one is unique makes them popular,(but my diapers and body bibs are definitely catching up fast.)
What is the best thing about bringing out your beautiful creations to the White Rock Farmer's Market?
I would love to be able to peruse the market as I know there is a lot of talented people there. I have been fortunate enough to meet a lot of the vendors over the years but it would still be fun to see what new items they have.
What is the best thing about bringing my stuff to the markets. I would have to say the people. The variety of people you meet and get to talk with are so diverse that they make my day fun. I would love to do markets every day if the weather would co-operate. Sitting in the rain definitly has its drawbacks.
If you would like to contact KAREN between visits to the market or during the offseason, please visit her web site www.sidelinedesigns.ca
Surrey.com's Mandi Sihota
SURREY.COM has stepped forward and signed on as the main sponsor of the main stage at this year's Spirit of the Sea Festival in White Rock. We thank SURREY.COM and introduce you to MANDI SIHOTA.
Mandi, first on behalf of everyone in White Rock and in particular the musicians and organizers of this weekend's sea festival thank you for your support of the main stage's musical line up this year. Please tell us how you became involved with the sea festival this year.
We are always looking to participate and be part of community events. We were introduced to the Sea Festival through Doug E (The Night Owl) and as soon as I heard of the event although it was only weeks away we definitely wanted to be part of the event. It sounded like a lot of fun and I have heard great things of the event in the past.***
Many residents in South Surrey and White Rock are already members of SURREY.COM but for those readers not aware of what SURREY.COM is all about could you please provide an overview?
Surrey.com offers a win win situation for both our subscribers and the businesses we work with. Local businesses offer a deal on Surrey.com (offering a 50% - 90% discount). Our subscribers purchase the coupon from Surrey.com and take it with them to the local businesses when they are ready to redeem the coupon. Surrey.com is a key to huge savings in the local area! ***
How long has SURREY.COM been operating?
Surrey.com has been operating and offering huge saving since December 2010. A year prior to our official launch, we launched a temporary website to get out the word out of what Surrey.com is and allowed visitors to subscribe to be the first to receive deals from Surrey.com***
What are the advantages of people signing up at the SURREY.COM website?
Huge Savings! The fact that businesses we work with are all in the local area our subscribers can take advantage of more deals in their City and support local businesses at the same time.
Now a little personal history about yourself. What is your involvement with SURREY.COM and how did that come about? Are you a resident of Surrey?
I am the Project Manager of Surrey.com and previously worked for the Marketing Company Orbital Marketing (which is owned by the same owners of Surrey.com), Yes I am a resident of Surrey.
Do you have a personal interest in music or was your motivation more professionally based?
A mix of both, Music is a big part of my life but getting Surrey.com name out to the people of the Lower Mainland was the main attraction to the event.
Can we look forward to seeing SURREY.COM involved in future events like the White Rock Spirit of the Sea Festival?
Yes, we want to be part of all local events. This allows us to get the word out about Surrey.com and educate people on how they can try new things with huge savings, it also allows us to meet our customers and of course these events are always so much fun to be at!
What music would we find in your CD player or on your iPod?
My taste of music is very diverse, you will find music from the 60's to today's latest hits.
Do you have a favourite restaurant in White Rock?
Oh so many! I think it would have to be... The Boathouse, great food, amazing patio and unforgettable memories.
Thank you Mandi for taking the time today to inform us about SURREY.COM.
If you happend to be out by one of the music stages this weekend at the Sea Festival and you notice Mandi swaying to the tunes, stroll over and say "Thank You" for the tunes!
Market Merchant
Amanda Rivard with Arianna
Clawfoot Spa
Today we are talking with Amanda Rivard about her booth at the White Rock Farmer's Market. Amanda please tell the readers of THE SUN what products you feature at the Clawfoot Spa?
Clawfoot Spa specializes in natural luxury bath & body products with a focus on fragrance-free, colour-free, & foam-free products. All the luxury products are handmade in White Rock & South Surrey by a family with fifth generation roots in the beautiful seaside town. The product lines include Natural Soap, Face Care, Hair Care, Momma & Baby care, Body Care, Spa Care, House Care, Laundry Care and Pet Care. Although all products are available unscented, I also offer most products naturally fragranced with therapeutic grade essential oils and all natural fragrance oils and crystals. The three most popular products are the Apricot Kernel Oil Face Cream, Rose & Apricot Cleansing Cream, and variety of Body Butters including the Momma & Baby Butter used as a diaper cream. Being a new company there are new products in formulation each week and I am happy to offer them at the market as soon as they are complete. Suggestions from clients and passersby have sparked the production of several new products, like the coming deodorant stick.
How long have you been offering natural organic and vegan bath and beauty products?
Although I have been using my family's handmade products for years and playing with the formulations for my personal use, I began production for sale in January 2011 and selling in May 2011.
How did your business come about?
Clawfoot Spa started from a desire to service our growing family's need for sensitive skin products. With the birth of our youngest and most sensitive family member, our second daughter, we discovered dire a need for fragrance-free, colour-free, & foam-free products. I had such great success with the products I created for our family's personal use that I started sharing them with our friends and local community. I quickly found that people loved the products I created and decided to share them with the world! Soon after the arrival of our youngest sensitive little daughter Clawfoot Spa was born too.
People can obviously buy your products at the White Rock Farmer's Market. Are there other locations where you stock your product, or can anyone that is interested in your products contact you directly?
I gladly accept telephone and email orders. I can be contacted directly at clawfootspa@gmail.com and 604-560-1123 Many products are listed on my website www.ClawfootSpa.com. A new friend of mine, Sylvaine, also carries them at her wonderful local spa Eclipse Esthetic at the Pacific Inn ( Pink Palace on King George & 9th) where she offers a variety of massages, reflexology, and other delightful spa services utilizing the clients choice of Clawfoot Spa or other great products. I love to join with others in our community to see these products available widespread.
Are there strict guidelines you must follow to have the designation of organic and vegan?
To be clear to future clients in writing as I am to clients that come visit me in person, my products are not themselves certified organic through a registered certifying body. This is a lengthy and expensive process that would increase the prices of the products beyond what I would consider a reasonable and fair amount. Clients can, though, be assured that I source high grade certified organic ingredients and will only use all certified organic ingredients in an organic product. This does reduce the amount of products I can offer as organic, but I feel that when non organic ingredients are used with organic ingredients that it may defeat the clients' intent in using organic products. I feel that those who opt for an organic lifestyle should feel confident that the products they receive are the quality and content they expect. Through custom orders I will vary from this and create custom products using the organic ingredients specified by the client in formulations to suit their individual needs and wants. Vegan products are thoroughly researched to ensure that all components contain no animal products or byproducts. I find that the vegetable version of ingredients available tend to be milder than their animal counterpart. So, other than cow's milk and goat's milk in some Spa Care products, all products are vegan.
Is this your first year at the market? I always like to ask the vendors if there are any other vendors you make a point of visiting before, during or after the market wraps up?
Yes, this is my first year at the market. I take some time each market day to view the other vendors here. I do not have a set spot at the market each week and I love visiting with my new neighbors every Sunday. It has been a wonderful way to get to know this friendly community.
If you were going to describe the White Rock Farmers experience, how would you do it?
The White Rock Farmers is a welcoming community of positive people. The arrangers, vendors and visitors make this a lovely place to come and enjoy the morning and early afternoon. As a new vendor I find that people are so helpful and inviting I quickly felt beyond welcome. I look forward to each Sunday and hope to make this a regular affair.
In closing if there is anything you would like to expand upon, here is your opportunity to talk directly to the readers of the White Rock Sun.
I strive to treat my family to an indulgent healthy home and life experience. My philosophy surrounding Clawfoot Spa products is that we can pamper ourselves without a detrimental effect on our bodies and our wondrous earth. I take the highest quality ingredients in a simple unaltered form to protect & pamper our bodies so we may protect & pamper the grand body we all reside in.
To those who have been inspired to come try Clawfoot Spa products at the White Rock Farmers Market, an additional 10% discount will be deducted from the low wholesale prices offered at the market by mentioning this article.
New to the White Rock Farmer's Market this year is a very unique booth selling beautful rock art.
First let's start with a little background on both of you who are operating the wonderful booth called RockYard garden curiosities.
As eighth generation "Rock Carving Kids", my brother Brodie and I have been carving designs into rocks since we were little at our family shop, J.B. Newall Memorials, located in Vancouver, at the corner of 35th & Fraser Street. Our family business started in Dalbeattie Scotland in 1820, and in 1909 the Newall family came over to Canada, opened up our shop, and we've been creating cemetery markers at the same location ever since.
What was your inspiration for creating the beautiful works of art you have created from plain, ordinary looking stones?
We are a family of animal lovers and when we lost our first family dog when we were kids, our family created a beautiful boulder for our garden memorializing her. Since then, my brother and I took over the pet memorials department in our family business. From that we started getting requests from family and friends for garden rocks with custom phrases and sayings as well as sandblasting address's into boulders. We love the opportunity to work with natural stone- no piece is ever the same!
How long have you been creating these unique works of art? How long have you been making these pieces?
Technically all our lives, but we've really been focusing on these garden rocks for the past year. As well as the rocks, my husband Chris started hand stamping silver plated spoons as markers for herbs & vegetables in your garden. This is the first summer we've ever done Farmers' Markets though.
What is the price range we are looking at for your art pieces?
The spoons are $7 each and the rocks can range from $255 - $85 depending on the size and content.
Do you do custom work, by that I mean if someone wanted their family name for instance engraved into a stone would that be possible?
Absolutely! Because both products are completely customizable, people are finding that they are great gift ideas!
Your booth is new to the White Rock Farmer's Market. Do you live in the area? What made you choose the White Rock Farmer's Market?
As avid farmers market and local shoppers, my husband and I thought it would be a good idea to try selling our rocks to our community for their gardens. We grew up in White Rock and live in South Surrey so this market was a natural fit for us.
I always like to ask the vendors if there is a particular other vendor that you have frequented, someone you would recommend to a friend that was coming to the market?
Zodie's Barkery! it's our dog's favourite too! And we love all the fresh fruit, vegetables and free-range eggs
In closing we'd like to mention is that we will have a website up and running soon (www.rockyard.ca) but you can contact us at rockyard@live.ca or make contact through our family business website www.jbnewall.com
Simply Dish Soup
Chelsey McGregor-Hawkings
This week we stop by the booth housing SIMPLY DELISH SOUP & SALAD CO. Where they say "healthy eating made easy"
Paulette Hawkings takes a moment to describe what products are featured weekly at her booth at the White Rock Farmer's Market.
We at "SIMPLY DELISH SOUP & SALAD" have created a line of "Artisan Food Products" that are beautiful to look at, delicious to eat, healthy...and quick! In todays busy world, it is all too easy to stop by fast food restaurants, or purchase quick, ready made meals at the local grocers. BUT, first off it is costly, and secondly, they are loaded with sodium and preservatives. Simply Delish packages healthy beans, lentils, rice, quinoa, veggies, and spices, to create delicious soups, salads, pilafs and breakfast cereals that are MSG free, salt free or very low sodium, dairy/egg free, soy free, and a great line of GLUTEN FREE products. They are reasonably priced at $7 each or 3/$20, and provide 8-10 servings. Our soups and salads are enhanced by the local vegetables, delicious breads, meats and cheeses supplied by the local vendors. They are wonderful additions to your pantry, great for RV's, camping, hostess gifts and year end teachers gifts.
We thoroughly enjoy participating in the local Farmers Markets. This is our second year at the White Rock Farmers Market and we are looking forward to the season. Sadly the weather has played a role in the market, as the farmers have been delayed with the lovely fresh local produce that is foremost the drawing card of the local markets. The vendors at the White Rock Farmers Market have been carefully chosen to compliment one another, and give the local community a well balanced shopping experience. It is arranged so as to provide a relaxed, friendly morning of shopping while you and your family are enjoying a walk with the family dog:) I find it very inspiring visiting the other vendor booths and realizing how inventive we as a community can be in offering art, food, lovely home baking, gift ideas, flowers...the list is endless. I personally do the majority of my shopping at the local markets, as we currently participate in 17 local markets weekly. Besides food items I love to purchase gifts that are locally designed and unique. With todays economic situation, we believe it is vital that we as a community support one another.
For those that have not visited the White Rock Farmers market, I highly recommend a stroll through. Enjoy a delicious coffee and cinnamon bun, listen to the music, pick up fresh produce that was picked the day before, flowers for your table, and soak up the community family environment! (And of course visit us and find out how you can make your meal time, delicious, quick, and nutritious.)
Paulette Hawkings & the team
The tarot ( /?tæro?/; first known as trionfi and later as tarocchi, tarock, and others) is a pack of cards (most commonly numbering 78), used from the mid-15th century in various parts of Europe to play a group of card games such as Italian tarocchini and French tarot. From the late 18th century until the present time the tarot has also found use by mystics and occultists in efforts at divination or as a map of mental and spiritual pathways.
Have you ever wondered about Tarot Cards? Do they really work, can they predict the future. Meet KCee who operates her tarot card table/booth every Sunday at the White Rock Farmer's Market
Please describe for our readers what service or products you feature at your booth.
"KCee's Tarot Room" I do Tarot readings at the market
What exactly is tarot card reading? Most of us have limited knowledge about the use of the tarot cards.
We are living in a time of accelerated growth where nothing is stable and the only constant is change.
Tarot readings can present you with an opportunity for continued awakening. You will be given insight and messages to aid you on your spiritual path. By incorporating Tarot symbology and using intuitive and psychic abilities, one is able to effectively and positively assist clients in accurately identifying problematic areas in our life. By identifying blockages and needs, one is able to move forward and effectively release old patterns.
The Tarot symbology connects with our subconscious mind as we hold all the answers inside of ourselves. When one chooses specific cards (by shuffling the deck) those specific cards are brought to our awareness with the issues and problems one is having at this specific moment in time.
Tarot allows us to see a "pathway" that is most suited to one's life plan. We may take that path, or we may choose not to. That is up to each individual. As we live in a free will zone, we can make our own informative decisions. What Tarot does do, very effectively, is to give us the information we desire to make a more informed choice and subsequent decisions -- the truth about Tarot is that it never lies. At times it can be brutally honest, but maybe that is exactly what is needed to move forward in life.
Carl Jung said it best: “The Tarot has to do with individuation - the process of bringing the conscious and unconscious selves into harmony. The symbols presented are of archetypal nature (i.e. as coming from a universal, or collective unconsciousness), and the inner connection between the cards.
Is this your first year at the White Rock Farmer's Market?
This is my second year of being at the market
We are just a couple of weeks into the Farmer's Market season for 2011, but with that said what do you find to be the most enjoyable part of being at
the market?
The fun atmosphere, seeing everyone there from last year. Not only the merchants but the people who come to the market to say hi. It's great to connect with the community again, after a long winter indoors.
How did you become involved in tarot card reading?
That’s a Huge question but I’ll try and keep it short.
I always felt a connection to the mystic and especially the Tarot. I read the books and learned a bit on my own and performed readings for friends over a glass of wine, or two. When I started getting serious about doing readings, as a professional, I then decided to train with a Tarot Master, with her direction and tutelage I was able to reach Master status. At the same time I chose to get certified as a Life Coach and received my Diploma as I wanted to professionally counsel others with the information gained from these mystical cards.
Have you had an opportunity to visit other vendors at the market? If so do you have a special booth you have enjoyed visiting and shopping at?
I love the "Honey Man", his honey products are the best. Also I enjoy the
baked goods and organic vegetables.
There are a number of other markets in the Fraser Valley. Are you exclusive to the White Rock Farmer's Market?
Pretty much, I also do a couple events at "Township 7" winery in Delta
Now you may have answered this with the first question, but can you see into the future of a person by reading tarot cards? If so how do you handle if you see trouble or sorrow in someone's future?
When individuals come to me you can be sure there is a problem, as most are seeking guidance and direction with real life issues. I would like to mention that I am also a certified Life Coach who chooses to use Tarot as a tool to uncover the deep issues an individual is experiencing, in this moment of time. The question they may have is “how do I deal with these issues and real life problems and can I see a path or direction for them to take toward solving these plaguing issues. With my Life Coaching abilities I move them forward and show them a path that they could take, if they chose to take it.
I also work very closely with a colleague of mine, Linda Rose who is a professional Intuitive and lives in the White Rock area. She is more than qualified to handle very “real” life issues and an outstanding citizen in our community of White Rock. If I feel that Tarot cannot help my client I have no question but to refer them to Linda Rose as we all work together to assist those in need. This is our truth and our work, to help others who need a helping hand, yes it is our profession, we are professionals and yes you will see real results. On the other hand if I see there may be serious abuse issues, either done to others or themselves I refer them to a professional psychologist or psychiatrist.
As whether or not I can see into the future. I would have to answer that “they” can see into the future. As they hold all the answers within themselves, it is “they” who choose the cards, I’m just the interpreter.
A number of people I have spoken to at the market, the vendors and the public have stated they enjoy the feeling of community at the market. Have
you seen evidence of that?
Most definitely, it's so nice to feel that your part of a community and getting together in an event like this is very comforting.
Tell me more about Tarot Training
Tarot - the very word raises thoughts of secret societies and mysteries of the occult. The imagery and symbology of each card in the Tarot may look strange yet beautiful. Immediately such questions are asked when looked upon for the first time. Are they used to divine the future? What is their history? What is the meaning of the symbols that appear on each card? How can I learn to tap into the true meaning of the cards and study the mysteries that they hold?
I have found that the truth about most books on the subject of Tarot leaves one with a feeling of confusion and frustration and acts more like a barrier to understanding the true meaning of the teachings of Tarot than actually explaining the meaning of the symbols that constantly recur in the cards.
With this in mind, I present my course of study by amalgamating my years of study, searching for the real truth that lies within the Tarot, channeling with my Guides and Masters, and careful extraction of original, basic meanings of the cards from a number of authentic sources. The conclusion of my life search and love for the “real truth” behind the mystery of the Tarot has produced a remarkable program. The meanings of the symbols and the interpretation of the cards are in simple language, so that the beginner can easily take the plunge and begin to use the cards in divination and contemplation.
It is with my pleasure and with my true love for the Tarot to teach this “real truth” as I feel that Tarot has suffered enough through the hands of religion and false prejudices. I take extreme pride in knowing this truth and enjoy thoroughly teaching others how to properly understand each card and the importance of the connection that Tarot has with the Divine.
Students of the Tarot will find this course a convenient path of study into an endless and rewarding realm of an ancient form of divination.
I welcome you to “My World of the Tarot”
What inspired you to sign up for the White Rock Farmer's Market?
The atmosphere it brought to being there, I felt I wanted to be a part of that.
In closing in your own words would you like to say anything to someone who is reading this article and has not had the opportunity to visit you or the
market?
Come on down to the market, enjoy yourself, bring your kids and family dog, and don't forget your husband, there's lots for him to enjoy also. The
Chocolate Beet Cake is superb, home-baked cookies, pies and much more to nibble on. Organics galore: from farm fresh vegetables to home-made soaps,
The White Rock Market has something for everyone - and let's don't forget about the music!!
In addition to being at the market can readers contact you directly for a reading? In their home or yours?
For a Tarot Reading or for information about the Tarot Arts Training Centre please contact KCee at: Phone: 778-294-0082 or email: tatc@shamaya.ca
Tarot readings are done from my home.
If your having a party or event I will go to the clients home.
To contact Linda Rose, Mind, Body, Soul Intuitive she can be reached at 604-603-3130
 Every Sunday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Website
Farmer's Market Director
 Helen Fathers
In addition to her duties as a White Rock city councillor, HELEN FATHERS is also the Director of the White Rock Farmer's Market. For the past few years FATHERS and her crew arrive at the market at daybreak to help the vendors get set up and ready for the crowds that arrive each and every Sunday morning.
The market is located at the base of the two high rise towers in uptown White Rock. The booths are placed strategically in front of the community centre and along Russell Avenue in front of the famed Whaling Wall.
The White Rock Farmer's Market is scheduled to open this Sunday (May 29) How many years has White Rock had a Farmer's Market?
This Farmers' Market has operated since 1998, but I believe according to The "street chatter" there used to be a farmers market here years and years ago!
We will provide a list of the vendors this year at the end of this article, but can you tell us about any new vendors that will be making their debut at the market this year?
A few new vendors that I am excited about are
Certified Organic Garlic - vendor arriving July
Certified Organic Turkey Farmer from Abbotsford - Lady Bug Manor
A First nations artist - Ravens In Motion
Tartine Pies and Tarts -
Nonna Pias Gourmet Oils and Vinegars
Wild Ginger Designs - Plants and Herbs
Upper Bench Organic Farm - arriving July time
In addition to the wonderful stalls at the market, there is usually music supplied for the shopper's entertainment. Who will be performing this Sunday at the market.
 Ched Miller & Mike Villeneuve/The Lounge Brothers
The Lounge Brothers and entertainment By The Hoop Fairy
Given this is the kick off for the market do you have any special guests or events planned for the opening?
 Mayor Ferguson
Well David, I am sure you will be there!! and of course Opening Day would not be the same without the Mayor doing the honours!!
There seems to be a real sense of community at the White Rock Farmer's Market that is not as prevalent at some other farmers markets. What do you think causes such a sense of community at our market?
White Rock Is All about Community. The Market is the place to observe this, We all need to a place to be, with our fellow people, Outdoor spaces are imperative in a city to bring this sense of relationship together.
You take a certain sense of pride professionally in the operation of the market. On a personal level are there any vendors in particular that you enjoy having here on a personal level?
All of them, They are all pieces of the pie.
It is rumoured Bosa will soon begin development of the other two high-rise towers on the Miramar site. Once construction begins will the market be able to function in its present location outside of the community centre or will the construction necessitate a move of the market?
We will still be able to continue our Market, with the closure of Russell Avenue that we have from The City, in this space alone , if push came to shove we could operate there.
Will the regular special events for the Sunday market return this year. IE: Pet day? Tell us a bit about some of the other special events scheduled for this year?
Fathers Day June 19
Dog Day July 3 sponsored by S.A.L. I. society with the pet washing station and of course our famous DOG SHOW.
Kids day Aug 14 with Korki the Klown
Is the market full for vendors this year or is it still possible for vendors to apply to participate in the market?
We are still accepting applications for some vendors, jewellery and craft vendor spots are full , but veggies and fruits still available.
Given you the fact you have to be on hand every Sunday for the White Rock farmer's market, have you had the opportunity to visit any of the other markets in the Fraser Valley?
Trout Lake - Vancouver
Granville Island
New Westminster
Abbotsford
Kelowna
Huntington Beach - California
To name a few
ANY special additions you some day hope to institute at the WHite Rock Farmer's Market?
Speakers Corner would be great or some kind of "soap box" area - we are working on it.
As a kid I used to catch the bus into Nottingham most weekends, In the town square there was always artists doing chalk drawings on the pavement, this was always so cool, I would love to see more artists performing at the Market, street performers that kind of thing.
As far as Vision - The Best Farmers Market in BC.
As regards the weather , I have checked and the forecast for the 29th "partly sunny" and I know the weatherman never gets it wrong!!
Complete listing of 2011 vendors
1. AJI Sauces
2. Alex the Woodman – Wood Products
3. Applebarn Farms – peppers
4. Bite me off sausages
5. Blackberry Hill
6. Chloes boutique – barrets, kids hair designs
7. Christinas Garden
8. Class Act stone - jewellery
9. Clawfoot spa products – bath and body
10. Coffee Tent – Sam Miguel Fair Trade Coffee
11. Creative Cutlery
12. Culinary Blossoms – jams, jellies , flowers
13. Dingolay jewellery
14. European Breads – Bread and Baked Goods
15. Fieldstones bakery
16. Fieri del sol, flowers and body products
17. Florillia Growers
18. Fresh and Go - 100% natural deordorizes
19. Fresh off the Boat
20. Friends of Semiahmoob Bay Beach hero program
21. Gesundheit Bakery – Baked Goods
22. Glen Valley Organic Farm – Organic Veggies
23. Gold Valley Bee co – Honey
24. Granola King
25. Hello Friends bakery
26. HG Farms – veggies and fruits
27. Hinda s Finest Foods
28. Jewellery by APT
29. Judy’s Country Kitchen – Baked Goods
30. Lady Bug Organic turkey
31. Leslie Leslie Metal Art
32. Mann Farms – Farm fresh produce
33. Miss Bossy Boots
34. Natural Village – Farm
35. Nonna Pias Gourmet oils and vinegars
36. Out west Ranch – Beef
37. Pauline Smith
38. Pink Gargoyle
39. Ravens in motion
40. Richmond Specialty Mushrooms – Organic Mushrooms
41. Rock Yard designs
42. Schatzi Bath and Body Soaps
43. Sideline designs
44. Simply Delish Soups and salads
45. Southpoint chiropractic
46. Sunlight blossoms
47. Sweet delights
48. Tartine tarts and pies
49. Trommell Greenhouses
50. West Coas Natural Art
51. Wild Ginger Designs – plants and herbs
52. Wyndson Farm
53. Zodies Barkery – Dog treats
May 18, 2011
Wyland Whale Wall - The One That Started It All
 In the summer of 1984 the city of White Rock was transfixed as marine artist WYLAND painted a beautful giant mural on the wall of a band in uptown White Rock. The local comunity opened their arms and hearts to this gypsy California artist.
The White Rock whale wall became a source of pride for the entire community. Upon its completion WYLAND created beautiful posters which he autographed at the dedication of the public art piece.
Almost without knowing it White Rock over the past 25 years has added nearly a dozen public art pieces on the walls of various businesses.
This past weekend the owners of Blue Frog recording studio JUANITA MOFFAT and KELLY BREAKS became the proud owners of the most recent addition to the wall mural inventory.
The artist who has painted the majority of the wall murals in White Rock is ELIZABETH HOLLICK. Over the years HOLLICK has put forth proposals to city hall with concepts of how to beautify our city by the sea.
 Elks Hall on George Street in uptown White Rock. Artist unknown.
A collection of Elizabeth Hollicks public art pieces
 White Rock Muffler Marine Drive
 
In the alleyway between White Rock Travel and Sugar & Spice restaurant on Johnston Road near Thruft avenue a pair of Hollick wall murals.
 
(L-R) Olympic welcome wall painted by Elizabeth for the arrival of the Olympic torch along Marine Drive at the end of West Beach. Fishing ship mural on wall behind Turtle Recording Studio corner of Vidal & Victoria Avenue
 
Another pair of Elizabeth's mural walls. ULI'S restaurant on Marine Drive and the wall of the Suprfluity Shop on Prospect Avenue just off Johnston Road.
 Though no somewhat fading from the weather Elizabeth painted the water tank in uptown White Rock just off 16th Avenue.
April 07, 2011
First of all if you could give the readers a bit of your own personal background and how you two ended up owning and operating Blue Frog Recording Studio in White Rock.
Juanita Moffat: We met when we were both teenagers and in the same band together, and have been best friends and music partners ever since. We had been working on our own CD, a few years back, and loved recording at this studio when it was then called Rock Beach. This studio has so much magic about it. When you walk in, you can feel the special vibe of the room. It was specially designed and built for the likes of all musicians, and everyone that would appreciate it’s perfect acoustics. The studio seems to have it’s own pulse.
Kelly Breaks – In addition to playing bass in different bands, I have had a number of different small recording studios over the years. My previous recording studio was located in a warehouse in Surrey, but the building was sold and I had to move out. About the same time, this studio became available. So we jumped at the chance to take over this world-class facility. This place has such amazing acoustics, and we have many producers and engineers bringing their recording projects in for the sound. It’s the million-dollar studio with a million dollar sound.
The recording industry I understand in changing rapidly due to technology. It is apparent in order to exist and succeed in today's marketplace you have to become very creative so to speak. What are some of the challenges you face in the music industry of today?
Kelly Breaks- Today it is all about the live show, video, YouTube and social media. The music business really has changed in the last decade. There is less interest in people buying CDs. It’s more about having a great live show and building a fan base over time. Once a band has a good following, they can sell their CDs, DVDs, T-Shirts and other merchandise, and do very well. But they have to be able to pull it off live on stage, and not just in the recording studio. It seems that YouTube and similar services are now the go-to sources for people to discover bands. We have adapted our services to give the working musician some powerful tools to compete in the new era. We have the unique combination of an acoustically pristine studio and an elegant theatre, which is perfect for holding intimate concerts. We record these concerts and shoot video in High Definition for an amazing DVD and YouTube release. We are slowly and carefully building a “Live from Blue Frog” brand. We don’t consider the ever-changing music industry a challenge, but rather an opportunity to expand, with new ideas.
Blue Frog Studio has very quickly established itself as a performance space by staging very unique intimate concerts for the residents of the Fraser Valley. How are you able to entice such artists as DAN HILL and ALFIE ZAPPACOSTA to perform in the comfortable confines of your recording studio?
Juanita - It started with Dan Hill coming in because of our reputation. He really likes performing for smaller, intimate audiences who he can interact with. Dan said he just loved playing at Blue Frog and couldn’t wait to come back. The word quickly spread to other well-known artists who are now contacting us to do the same thing.
What artists can we expect to see in the future concert series?
Juanita - Blue Frog Studios, has some exciting concerts coming up. We keep them under wraps until about 6 weeks prior to an event. We have a relaxing day filled with smooth Jazz, chocolate and champagne, planned for Mother’s day (May 8). Juno award winner Gabriel Mark Hasselbach and friends will be here for two shows. Next is Shari Ulrich on May 25th. She is amazing, and will be performing with her daughter , who has a reputation of her own, along with another talented musician. That will be GOOD! We are working, right now, on another very special treat...but can’t tell you yet! People can join our mailing list, so that they can find out these special shows before they sell out (bluefrogstudios.ca)
So now let's talk a bit about the mural you are going to create to adorn the north wall of your business. Tell me how this all began?
Kelly – I was surprised at how many musicians coming out from Vancouver would get lost trying to find us. I said jokingly, “we should paint a Blue Frog on the wall as a landmark”. That kind of started things, and when we casually mentioned this to Cyndie Richards from the BIA, the idea exploded…we all realized the potential of what a mural would do for the community.
Did you work closely with the artist Elizabeth Hollick in creating the image that will adorn the wall?
Juanita - Elizabeth is soooo great. She has so much talent flowing through her. It’s like she is about to burst with excitement when it comes to talking about the art and artists in our community. We met with her and Cindy Richards of the BIA numerous times to discuss and talk about what our vision was and how it matches the city’s vision. It was fun to see the things Elizabeth came up with. Out of 5 ideas we finally picked the one that we thought would enhance the community the best.
What is the time frame you are working with for the completion of the mural?
Kelly – We are hoping that it will be done in time for the May Long Weekend…what a great way to kick off summer in White Rock.
Are you hoping this mural, which will become a part of the existing murals in White Rock, inspires other business owners to follow your suit?
Kelly - White Rock has such potential, something like Cannon Beach, Oregon and other arts & culture focused places. The beach is the draw, but we see White Rock as a funky, art & music community, with tons of fun things happening. Great food, great music, and great art. It could become a quaint seaside town, with a theme, and a reason for all to come here to spend their hard earned entertainment dollars. We felt that if we were going to pipe up and say these things, we need to do something. The mural was our first idea, and we acted on it. I am sure we will have more, but one at a time.
I can understand you want to keep the final design a secret. I think that will add to the mystery as it starts to take shape, but can you give the readers a hint about what the mural is going to be of?
Juanita – Other than the obvious Frog in it, the mural will be a secret until it is finished. But just let everyone know, it will be fun, whimsical, and something everyone will enjoy!!
Take a trip inside Blue Frog Studios (CLICK HERE)
March 05, 2011
 Ginny Harrison White Rock Travel
Today we sit down with GINNY HARRISON the current President of the White Rock Business
Improvement Association to talk a bit about the past, present and future of
the organization.
Ginny first tell me a bit about your history here in White Rock. How long
have you lived in White Rock?
Wow, I had to double check the calculaton...45 years.....my family moved
here in 1966.
Do you have any special memories of your childhood growing up in White Rock?
Lots. I remember Centenial Park being names in 1967...all the celebrations.
All the tiny, fragile pink clam shells strewn over the sandbars at the White
Rock beach. Havent seen any of those in years.
Swimming every summer in Ocean Park...sand dollars so populous, it hurt your
feet! We always made rafts out of the driftwood, and poled our way along. I
remember really cold, harsh winters, with tons of snow, I think it would
have been about 1968, or 69? One or two winters. I remember seeing the White
Rock Sun front page, showing a photo of the ocean frozen out to the end of
the pier, big chunks of ice. (You're going to think I'm nuts, or that I'm
talking about the 1800's, but I'm not that old!) And the time when there
were 2 sets of tracks all along the waterfront, when the train station was
actually in use.
How long have you had your travel business in White Rock?
I started working here in 1978, 33 years ago. My parents owned it; they'd
purchased it from local resident, Mark Gelfond.
The business opened in 1952.
Are there any particular locales that your clients frequent more than other
holiday destinations?
The majority of our clients are going to Mexico or Hawaii in the winter, and
Europe in the summer. Lots of cruisers.
Hottest trend this year: River Cruises.
You return this year as the President of the White Rock Business Improvement
Association. How long have you been working with the BIA and how did you
become involved?
I was asked if I wanted to be on the board, when it was just starting out.
Other people had done all the work of it being created. So that was about 6
years ago. Never my intent to make this a career choice.
As a business owner yourself you no doubt are concerned about the well being
of the retail base in White Rock. On a personal and a professional level
what do you think are the major things that need to be addressed to maintain
a healthy business community?
The big emphasis needs to be on promoting "support your local businesses".
I think it's a perspective, a mindshift. White Rock is full of small
businesses, retailers of all sorts, like me. Lots of service industries as
well. We rely on our local community to survive, and most companies I know
give a huge amount back to the Community. We're always approached to
support this cause, or that event, and we relish the opportunity to support
White Rock. Local business owners make up the memberships of all the
service clubs, Rotary is an example. We have a vested interest in seeing
White Rock thrive, and we really appreciate the support we get from our
clients. I'd love to see a closer working relationship with our major
employers in this town: the hospital, City Hall, Police and Fire, and the
schools! I'd love to design something that is a win/win for everyone, and
encourages those employees to really consider doing business in White Rock
FIRST.
What are some of your favourite local businesses/restaurants that you would
recommend to someone reading this article?
Critters for my pet supplies; Buy Low for groceries; Penguin Meats for the
protein! Wolf's Deli; Helen's Sugar and Spice.
Kids and I love Kappa Japanese Restaurant on George Street. I'm partial
to Five Doors Down, and Uli's. I'd be in Laura's Fashion Fabrics daily, if
I sewed. Deslauriers Chiropractic for my back; White Rock Wellness for my
health, and Perfections Hair Salon for hair.
Par parking on the waterfront has been a contentious issue in White Rock.
Have you heard of any plans by the city to expand pay parking to the uptown
shopping district of the city?
Sometimes I hear rumours, or see inferences. That would be a fairly
short-sighted move by the City, though. I can understand pay parking on the
beach, when we want turnover during busy times, and also, its an attraction,
like Stanley Park in Vancouver. Pay parking is a way for the City to pay
for the upkeep. But there's no beach uptown...and there are lots of shops
across 16th, and 24th, with free parking. Pay parking uptown would surely
drive away more businesses.
The City of White Rock is undertaking a business study, could you tell us
about this program what it will involve and when will we see the report?
It's a business needs assessment, and the BIA is partnering with the City in
getting the study done. The consulting company will be examining the uptown
core, and coming up with recommendations on redevelopment, types of
businesses, and whether its all financially viable for the new developments.
The White Rock BIA has called for applications for the position of Executive
Director. What are some of the key points and qualities you are looking for
in the new Executive Director? When do you hope to make the announcement of
who will be the hands on director for the coming year?
The BIA is very blessed in our current ED, Cyndie Richards. We want to be
absolutely sure she is the best.
We are looking for a very creative, energetic, self-motivated individual,
who has excellent communication and marketing skills, who can steer the BIA
into and through the next five years. We would hope to make the
announcement by the end of March.
How much ownus do you think rests with the White Rock BIA in stemming the
exit of businesses out of our city? Do you feel the City of White Rock has
a responsibility in prommoting White Rock as a retail destination, or does
the onus rest with you and the business comunity?
The White Rock BIA can't take much responsibility for business' financial
survival. That is up to the owners of the businesses. We can give them
opportunity to help market their business; we can give them exposure by
bringing crowds of people to street fairs and festivals in their
neighbourhoods; then the businesses need to make the most of that
opportunity.
I think the City can work with the BIA, and other organizations such as
Tourism White Rock, to help promote our City, and the businesses within.
After all, that helps everyone in White Rock, to have a healthy business
community. I've seen several reports, and on average, the estimate is that
commercial properties in White Rock pay approximately 3 times more tax than
residential. For the grand total, commercial property tax may make up only
10% of the City's budget....but can you imagine if there was no business
here....the impact that would have on the City's tax base. In my mind, I
envision no businesses along Johnston Rd...and all those commercial
buildings being replaced by residential...those buildings would have to be
triple the size of the commercial to make up the loss in taxes! I know in
reality that's not quite the case, but the visual helps me get it in
perspective.
A group of volounteers recently came forth with some branding initiatives to
describe White Rock. How do you as a long time resident describe White Rock
to people?
THE BIG SECRET.
What's with our community? We've tried to keep it quiet forever! No
signage on the highways; no presence in BC's tourism literature. Thank
goodness that's all changing!
February 05, 2011
The Green Source
 Alberta's Wild Rose MARLINE URSULAK
Marline and her husband recently moved to the Semiahmoo Peninsula. Until very recently they owned and ran a heritage honky tonk saloon and hotel in Cochrane Alberta in the foothills of the Rockies called Rocky View Hotel . Located directly across the street from the famous locale of McKays Ice Cream. They are presently in the process of selling their personal property in the Cochrane area. In Marliene’s words it is a real “yahoo kind of town” ha ha.
How did you end up choosing The Semiahmoo Peninsula for your new home?
I have family in Vancouver and on Vancouver Island. So we would come out to visit friends and family. We would tow our fifth wheel trailer and we always used to check in at the Peace Arch RV Park located near the King George Highway Highway 99 interchange. We ended up driving around the area whenever we were out visiting and we really liked the area, so it seemed like a natural place to settle when we decided we were going to sell and move out of Alberta. The energy here is really relaxing. When I saw this location I told my husband I think I would like to take my personal love for the natural and healthy things in life and put them all together in a location.
How would you describe your store?
I like the natural organic eco friendly products. I do organic 90% of the time. I had been using a brand of tea that I knew I could get. Then I got a few other items and it is all growing rather organically. I am not sure exactly what the finished product is going to look like . I have a roaster in Vancouver that is supplying fair trade coffee, I am just getting to know the neighbourhood. Everyday someone new walks through my door. I also provide good drinking water. I sell a very affordable machine that makes alkaline water. It is called the Jupiter. I really want to become a healthy products corner store. Sort of like "if you don’t need it I have it" ha ha.
Your store seems to also carry a number of unique items.
I carry a special Russian stone which is good for people that are concerned about he negative effects of WI-FI on their personal health. I am also very excited about a skin cream that I have in stock that I know from personal experience that works very well. It is the closest thing to the fountain of youth you are going to find. I also carry on a limited basis a very healthy brand of pet food that is made locally.
Tell me a bit about the wide variety of teas you carry.
Well I have teas for just about anything that might ail you like digestion, colds or they just want a nice anti-oxidant tea. I have a wide variety of teas. I have the roibus tea that is caffeine free.
A lot of people have already discovered me here in a short period of time. I have a number of things planned for my big parking lot out front of the building, perhaps I will host a plant swap. I really would like Green Source to become a gathering place for the community. I am really happy with the amount of wonderful people I have met in the short time I have been open.
Talking to different people there is a possibility I might do a raw food cooking class, there are a number of people that have approached me about doing some natural healing sessions. There are so many things to consider for the future. I am open to hearing from anyone in the community that has a desire to sell their original material here in the store. I would like to bring a line of soap and little things like that. Stuff that would appeal to not only the locals but tourists as well. I am trying to reach to as many vendors as possible. I have already connected with a local photographer that has created a lovely set of original photo cards with winter scenes of White Rock that I have. She will also be doing Spring and Summer cards as well. Local unique things is what I would like to be known for.
Drop in and say hello to Marline and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and one of the lovely home baked dessert items. Watch for the cute little homemade “Open” Angel sign out front that was made by one of Marline’s neighbours as a welcome present.
Now that is community caring in action.
December 16, 2010
Illustrator Patricia Pailahueque
This week we sit down and learn a little bit about an illustrator who has made the long journey from her home in Santiago, Chile. Meet "Patricia Pailahueque."
First of all PATRICIA welcome to White Rock. Our community has earned quite a reputation as a haven for artists. Tell me a little bit about your art. WOuld it be fair to say your are an illustrator/artist?
I began studying at Duoc Catholic University of Chile, and when I graduated I started immediately with my illustration in the transport business magazine of Chile, after that, I've been linked in relation to art with my own creations,painting,drawing,and exposition,included an scenery for TV show,"Mad Love".
Your were raised in South America Santiago Chile to be exact. Is this where your interest in arts first began?
As a child I felt passion for the arts, especially what is draw a picture .. and it can express different feelings, creations and of course, different things that people want.
I understand you left Chile in pursuit of work and to develop your artistic talents. Where did your travels first take you when you left Chile?
Yes, that is, starting at age 23 to travel outside of Chile and thus learning about different types of culture, which has been influencing me slowly as I have become today, I love the colours and that stands out in my drawings and paintings.
In Mexico working with a great artist named Leon Alva, was an assistant in his work "The night dressed dauphine",("La Delfina vestida de Noche") today exposed at Hotel Le Meridien Cancun's hotel zone.
After that I worked on the project of a writer, making for a Maya character animation,his name is Claudio Obregón.
After your time in Mexico it was off to Spain. Why did you chose Spain and what artistic endeavours were you involved with in Spain.
In a way, I thought that Spain would be easier for me to achieve the target as illustrator so I was knew before, they appreciate the Art in Europe. Nevertheless I went there for my passion too is the Flamenco Dance, When I came to Madrid, I participated in a course of children's stories, which promoted the entity ILUSTRARTE,
I went to advice in APIM (association of painters and illustrators in Madrid), however it was not much I could to do, after that, I took a decision for to travel around there,in Barcelona,big place of art,everything is Gaudí ,the Park Guell,wonderful,the gothic place,this architecture is incredible..after that, I decided return to Mexico.
Is it true that you were back home in Chile earlier this year when the earthquake hit in February? Tell us a little bit about that experience, was there devastation near your home?
Yes, an earthquake measuring 9, something intense and never lived, we seemed to of paper inside the house, all things fall ... well ... a lot of people lost their homes too, and in my case, my family in southern Chile lost my grandfather's house because it was the epicenter, where the greatest devastation occurred, nearly 4 minutes of the earthquake and most of my country went to the ground ... still people there,can not completely rebuild their homes ... and we have a lot movements in this time yet.
How did you end up travelling to White Rock, British Columbia? What brought you here?
In 2004, started working in animation assistance plans in CHILEANIMACION, inadvertently, worked to Canada in 2 different animated series, What's up Andy, and Milo. From then on I never stopped thinking that one day travel to this beautiful country.However, after my thinking, in 2009, I was pregnant and the father of my daughter lives in White Rock area, so I already had many reasons for to come here, so I got my visa to work in this country and today I am here for all these reasons, along with my daughter Amie 2 years old.
You specialize in illustrations. Tell us more about the different applications your illustrations have been used for. Have you had your art/illustrations published in any magazines or newspapers?
In 2000, I started my practice in the magazine on Wheels transportation Guild, a magazine aimed at managers of it. In the year 2004/05, I started my period in the magazine Women of the newspaper La Tercera, along with it , made a scenery for a television station in Chile.
In 2006, I was invited to participate in the association of painters and sculptors of Chile (APIM) in an exhibition at Orange house, Art and Restaurant, days before leaving for Mexico, was pubic nationwide, which gave me proudly to be the youngest artist invited to participate with the great artists of my country.
Although you have been in White Rock less than a year. Tell us what your thoughts are of this little peace of heaven nestled up against Semiahmoo Bay.
I think it is a very beautiful and quiet, clean, which is mainly security, something very good for the quality of life of any human being, I always linked to the sea, I will always walk with my daughter, because I love jogging, enjoying the sun, or even the most simple .... watch the train pass. .
It is a source of inspiration for me to see the tranquility of white Rock.
What are some of the favourite things you like to do when you are not doing your art?
Travel, meet, dance flamenco, which is my passion too, and the music .. part of my life in every place that I go ...
Do you have any favourite artists whose work you enjoy?
My main attraction is the art of Gustav Klimt (Vienna 1862 - Vienna 1918) their attachment, women in each of their faces I recognize in him the details of womanhood, of subtlety, the colors that resonate with me, and the dedication and finesse that denote reached in each of his paintings artistic.
Egon Schiele, Picasso, Gaudí, Dalí, Fernando Ureña Rib, Dominican Artist, Leon Alva and Jaime Villegas, Mexico, etc.
How do you do your illustrations/art? Is it done free hand or does technology actually allow you to draw using your computer?
I've always drawn free hand, but with the advent of technology, I can draw on my Wacom table and paint on the same computer, I also mixing techniques with aquarella and photoshop, drawing and painting, mixing textures, collages, colors, my favorite, acrylics and paper. With this I can have my art and create, as necessary.
A special thank you to Patricia for telling us her story and sharing her artwork with the community.
If you are interested in contacting Patricia for more information and the cost of an original illustration please email her at'
patty.pailahueque@gmail.com
Or visit her blog/web site at;
http://pattypailahueque.blogspot.com
Heart's Desire White Rock
VALERIE CRUMP
White Rock is now home to a beautifully designed art and jewelry boutique. Heart’s Desire is located in uptown White Rock on Johnston Road. The store and its contents for the most part are the creation of Abbotsford resident VALERIE CRUMP and her husband TIM UNRUH.
This week we had an opportunity to sit down with VALERIE to learn about her store, her artwork and the woman herself.
AS I LOOK AROUND YOUR SHOP I SEE IN ADDITION TO A WIDE SLECTION OF JEWELLRY, YOU HAVE A NUMBER OF BEAUTIFUL ART PIECES. FIRST LET’S TALK ABOUT THE ART WORK.
“All of the wall art in the store along with some of the jewelry pieces are my own original creations.” Says VALERIE as she relaxes on the centre point of the store a beautiful chaise lounge
“IS HEART’S DESIRE YOUR FIRST JEWELLRY RETAIL OUTLET?”
No I had a shop in Metro Town and over the past 15 years I have run my own kiosk on a seasonal basis both in the Semiahmoo Mall as well as the Cottonwood Mall in Chilliwack.
WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE WHITE ROCK AS A LOCATION FOR HEART’S DESIRE?
“I have developed a loyal clientele here and I love the area. I really enjoy the people and the energy by the ocean just feels right for the artist in me.
I know there is a concentration of artists in White Rock. I am hoping to be included in the Arts Walk in 2011.”
WHAT IS THE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR JEWELLRY. IS THERE A CERTAIN STYLE THAT WOULD DESCRIBE YOUR CREATIONS?
Well I don’t copy anyone. I am just not interested. I usually see a vision of my jewelry long before I make it. It often comes to me in a dream as well as in a dream state just as I wake up in the morning. When I see the vision I have to complete it. If I don’t do it right away it will haunt me over and over until I follow the guidance of my design.
It also helped that my grandfather was a couture designer of women’s one of a kind evening wear which he sold in Europe as well as New York.
TELL ME MORE ABOUT YOUR ART, IT LOOKS TEXTURED AND SHOWS GREAT DEPTH.
I have taken formal art training in Toronto where I grew up. I moved to British Columbia around 1980 and about 10 years ago I started to take more training under an art professional, ROBERT BARRETT from the Neighborhood Arts Studio located in Langley.
With my wall art I have been shown “other places” and I am always in the process of birthing what I see there, into life here. I call it a gift. It is something I have had my whole life. In my earlier years it scared me and I tried to avoid it, but now I allow myself to celebrate each creation
The art that you see here now, reveals itself “through” me. The drawings that come in in advance of each piece are the same sketches with the pencil as it touches the paper – over and over – almost as if they are talking to me until I let them speak for themselves.
A lot of my textures and the movement of the sculptured wall art is inspired from nature. As a child I was fascinated with flowers, leaves and seeds. My little grandmother Mary had a profound effect on my understanding of the natural elements and introduced me to the fairy kingdom. She was an incredible artist in her own right.
IN ADDITION TO YOUR JEWELLRY AND ARTWORK I ALSO SEE LADIES CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES. TELL ME A BIT ABOUT THIS PORTION OF HEART’S DESIRE.
I carry handbags, scarves and unusual clothing. I also carry “INTENTION” products produced by another artist TIEN WEE who is a practitioner of Chi and Feng Shui. He creates quality sprays, candles and soaps with balanced aroma therapy harmony. I have studied the healing properties of herbs and flowers and these intentions became a natural as one includes them into their life for health, love prosperity, happiness and a quiet state of being.
ONE LAST QUESTION. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STORE TO SOMEONE?
My main aim is to provide a creative environment for people to enjoy themselves. Women love to express their emotions through the way that they dress. It is very important for them to feel confident and comfortable with how they are seen by each other and their world.
It is vital to come from your heart when purchasing for yourself or for anyone in your life. My staff and I will keep you on track and help you with those important decisions.
I AM NOT REALLY SURE WHAT MY ORIGINAL “intention” WAS FOR VISITING HEART’S DESIRE BUT I AM THANKFUL FOR WHATEVER POWER DREW ME INTO THIS BEAUTIFUL AND UNIQUE STORE.
IT JUST GOES TO SHOW YOU CAN'T JUDGE A STORE BY ITS COVER.
Heart's Desire
1351 Johnston Road
White Rock BC
Making A Point In Cloverdale - Meet MAGIC MARIO
 Mario Ibara
Many people, myself included have chosen to travel the "alternative medicine" route when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I prefer the term complementary more than alternative. Complementary to all forms of medical treatment including modern western medicine.
Today I am happy to introduce you to MARIO IBERRA. For a number of years I have been the benefactor of "Magic Mario's" medical treatment.
MARIO the sign out front of your practise in Cloverdale the sign indicates you practise acupuncture as well as TCM. Can you please explain what TCM is?
Well TCM is a term for Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves using Chinese diagnoses by checking pulse, tongue, and physical characteristics. By management using herbal medicine with either western or eastern herbs. TCM also uses acupuncture to help the meridians of the body.
Tell me a little bit about your medical background before arriving in Canada.
I am a licensed medical doctor in the Philippines specializing in orthopedic surgery, and complimentary medicine. I worked in Taiwan hospitals as a surgeon and got trained in traditional Chinese medicine and upgraded in Germany about complementary medicine, including acupuncture, ozone therapy, and ort ho-molecular medicine.
How and why did you take up the practice of acupuncture?
As a Western medical practitioner and a surgeon I don't believe easily in alternative medicine until such times, that most of my patients take complementary medicine that heals them quickly especially if you complement both of the western and eastern medicine. So I decided and got interested in complementary medicine and especially acupuncture
What are some of the more common ailments you assist your patients in dealing with?
Most of my patient's conditions have a bacterial and viral illness especially with the immune system depression like cancers, blood disorders and all the aches and pains in the body, etc.
A few years back a friend of mine visited your office for the first time for acupuncture treatment. Upon meeting him for the first time you urged him to see his medical doctor and have his prostrate checked. As he was not there for anything related to his prostrate what was it that caused you to direct him to see his medical doctor.
I directed this patient to a medical doctor because I would like to confirm the diagnoses that I'm thinking about his prostate due to the fact that I don't have any access of laboratory examination, and when I diagnosis a patient I always use my western and eastern training diagnosis for a better double setup diagnosis. For example, two minds are better than one, for a safety management for a patient.
BACKGROUNDER - The aforementioned gentleman took your advice and found out in short order he had a cancerous prostrate gland. Thankfully the quick action on his part made a routine operation an easy operation.
We hear people constantly talk about preventative medicine. Can you enlighten us what that term actually means?
Preventive medicine is to maintain and improve your health for all age groups, prevents and detects diseases, and risk reduction to maintain a good quality of life.
What is the range of ailments you see with your patients? Are there any particular ailments that you deal with more than others?
The range of ailments is from basic colds, fevers, coughs that can cover medical problems like organ diseases, blood disorders, behavioral problems, and pain management.
Do you think the Provincial and Federal government should expand the medical services plan to include "complementary" health care? If so, why?
Yes, because its very limited having ten visits in a year for individuals who uses complementary medicine is not enough, because complementary treatment is a slow process and needs more visits to monitor and improve the well-being of the person, and under MSP this is only good for people who are under $28,000 family income per year, this doesn't apply for families that have a greater income per year.
What advice do you have for our readers on maintaining a healthy lifestyle?
The advice that I can give is to have a physical check up every 6 months up to a year to a medical practitioner to monitor any irregularities in their body and you can discuss to your practitioner if you want to use complementary medicine.
Address:
17687 57 Avenue
Cloverdale
Phone 604-576-2449
PETER YOUNG "Live From White Rock"
PETER YOUNG could never have imagined from his first meeting with LARRY ANSCHELL that one day he would be negotiating a deal on ANSCHELL'S recording studio. YOUNG and ANSCHELL met back in the 80's when they both were enrolled in a fine arts recording school ICA in Vancouver. Upon graduation their paths took different courses. ANSCHELL began to make a name for himself first in the mobile recording industry and later a studio owner. YOUNG on the other hand traveled a different route that brought him to White Rock.
In 1987 following his graduation YOUNG was contacted by one of his instructors at the school that he obviously had made an impression on. "My instructor called me and said would you be interested in helping me engineer some future projects" says YOUNG as he relaxes behind the massive recording console in the old Turtle Recording Studios in White Rock. "I worked with him for about a year mainly concentrating on producing television and radio commercials out of a studio in downtown Vancouver. I got to know a lot of people in the industry in a very short period of time. I soon grew tired of the late nights and long hours associated with recording studio schedules."
From there YOUNG moved over to be the head technician at the famed Commodore Ballroom from 1998-2001. I ended up swapping gigs with the live sound engineer for the Vancouver band WALL STREET. That launched me on my career of an independent contractor providing sound support for a number of different facets of the recording industry."
As more and more corporate clients came knocking YOUNG decided instead of always renting sound gear he would check out his options. The road quickly led him to a joint venture with FM SYSTEMS out of Alberta. Soon YOUNG has his own live sound company based in Vancouver up until 2005 when his business interests led him in a different direction. Audio Images Production Canada would be YOUNG'S next venture and it continued on providing corporate conference recording and instant CD duplication. In 2006 YOUNG'S company was hired to provide the sound system for the DALI LAMA'S appearance in Vancouver. Part of the service his company provided was the ability to record and manufacture 8,000 CDS of the DALI LAMA'S lecture. All within 2 hours of the lecture being complete. The system YOUNG was using was able to produce 250 CDS every 2 minutes. Everything was working just fine until mid-way through the duplication a power surge caused the loss of half of the compact discs being created. "From that moment on I swore I would never try to do on site duplication again" says YOUNG.
 Is this the future for the recording industry?
YOUNG also became patently aware of some other limitations to on site instant recording and sales. "You are faced with controlling your content as well as the quality and what content is actually going to be manufactured. There are a lot of variables that have to be taken into consideration." YOUNG thought there had to be a better way.
At the time one of North America's largest concert production companies LIVE NATION began to do a similar style of recording and selling music at concerts under the title of INSTANT LIVE. LIVE NATION actually tried to register and patent the system of recording and selling music at concerts, they were subsequently denied their patent in the United States. "In 2008 I was in Australia doing research for ALIVE DRIVE and I attended a ROB THOMAS concert. I stood in line for 50 minutes to get a recording of the concert I had just seen, and the concert I was actually sold was not the concert I had just seen. The industry made a shift then from compact discs to USB devices at the shows. Same problem though the USB devices were being created at the site of the concert."
YOUNG came back home to Canada and began to think the process through. He felt there was a market for concert goes to want to have a memento of the actual show they saw on any particular evening, but the quality was just not up to what YOUNG thought it should be.
YOUNG then decided what if as concert goers are leaving the venue following a performance they could buy a USB and it might contain a number of different sectors of the artist's career. Perhaps in the studio exclusive interviews, unavailable unreleased music, wallpaper for their computer, pictures and an endless variety of extra added value. Plus the real winner for ALIVE DRIVE is the next day or perhaps two days later after ALIVE DRIVE has had a chance to review the material with the artist and gain their approval, the show is put up on a secure site that the owner of the USB can access exclusively because they bought the USB. The concert they are going to get is the actual concert they heard the night before."
One of the first creations of ALIVE DRIVE is a co-production with Vancouver classic rock FM outlet ROCK 101 CFMI. YOUNG explains. "ROCK 101 has been recording performances of the shows they have presented since 2005. We have recorded the majority of these exclusive "win to get in" concerts so we were very familiar with the series. ROCK 101 will use some of this exclusive concert recording for their on air programming. The listeners enjoyed hearing the songs on the radio and it soon became apparent there quite possibly could be a commercial market for the concerts or a portion of the concert. So what we did is partner up with CFMI so when their listeners were leaving one of the concerts they were given a USB that would allow them exclusive access to not only the concert they just saw, but also an opportunity to listen to streaming versions of other songs recorded from the STUDIO 101 series. The only way they can get to the tracks is through having one of the USB units. ROCK 101 constantly update and refresh the site and that same USB will be the passport to the site for the owner of the USB device."
The software for ALIVE DRIVE is the exclusive property of YOUNG. The core code created for the clients will allow endless e commerce possibilities. Outside of the music industry ALIVE DRIVE is seriously exploring professional sports teams and a wide variety of other corporations that want to provide exclusive content to their customers or clients. Owners of the devices will also be able to access other artists or sports teams or movie companies or whatever once they have purchased the original USB device. If that consumer sees something else on the exclusive site they are on, they would be able to purchase access to other areas other than the original access site they paid for. The device simply becomes an authentication device. It is simply a key to a portal. Once you have the device the possibilities are endless.
The future looks bright for PETER YOUNG and ALIVE DRIVE. Brighter than a sunny day in White Rock. The new home of ALIVE DRIVE.
Visit the Alive Drive website (CLICK HERE)
Driving Miss Daisy
Daisy Walls
May 11, 2010
Tucked away just off the main drag in White Rock is a treasure chest called “Daisy’s.”
The namesake of the recycled thrift store is DAISY who without hesitation proudly informs you she is 91 years of age and has operated a store for 36 years on the White Rock waterfront.
While some may discount the thrift stores that dot the White Rock landscape eyesores, many enjoy the experience of poking around the various locales in search of treasures the never even knew they needed, until they saw it.
The Sausalito Bed & Breakfast building on Vidal Street that has housed “Daisy’s” for the past 17 years is coming down to make way for a parking. The parking lot will be short term until BOB & JACQUIE YEARSLEY the owners of the property break ground on the construction of a new building on the present site.
The Modern Service Club for the Handicapped is the real name b of "Daisy's" but when Daisy moved into the present location the name was changed to her namesake. Daisy Wall is her full legal name. Daisy made her home for a number of years in White Rock but when her husband passed away a few years back she pooled her finances with her daughter and purchased a home in South Surrey. “I found when I went looking for a home to purchase I could no longer afford to live in White Rock so we moved up to South Surrey.”
Regular shoppers at Daisy’s will have noticed quite often Daisy has a support staff of young people helping her operate the shop. Daisy explains who makes up her staff “I work in association with the Whale House on Stayte Street that operates a program for their residents. It is more of a social program to get the young people back into the community when they are ready to work with the public. The government subsidizes their wages.”
Over the years Daisy has had a number of famous people drop by her various locations on the waterfront. “When I had The Modern Service Club For The Handicapped it was originally located where Charlie Don’t Surf is now. I was there for 9 years in that location. One day MICK JAGGER of The Rolling Stones stopped into the store.”
Daisy has no plans for opening a new store but she leaves the door open for any possibility that might arise. “ I am sad to be leaving this location. I am going to miss all the wonderful people I get to meet everyday. I couldn’t possibly move everything so I am having a big sale to avoid having to move anything. For $1.00 I will sell you a big garbage bag and then when you fill up the bag it will only cost you $10.00.”
Last year Daisy was involved in a car accident, which she quickly points out, was not her fault. “After the accident I decided that given the fact I am getting on in age maybe it was time to stop driving myself. My car was a write off and it was cheaper for me to take a cab. A lovely lady in the area picks me up and drives me to and from the store. She actually has started a business called “Driving Miss Daisy” and she offers the service to other members of the community as well.”
Daisy prides herself in being a very positive person. Throughout the upheaval of closing the store Daisy has vowed not to let this latest change dampen her spirit and zest for life. She looks forward to hopefully seeing the Canucks go all the way this year. Her favourite Canucks are the Sedin twins. “I have pictures of my two great grandsons Jeremy & Josh up on the wall behind the cash desk here in the store. If everything goes as planned the boys will be in the NHL. Their father makes sure I get out as often as possible to see the boys play over in Langley where they live.”
Daisy has had a chance to see first hand the changes that have occurred to the waterfront of White Rock and she definitely has some thoughts on some of those changes. “I don’t like the BS with the parking down here, I don’t like seeing all the businesses moving out and relocating in Surrey. White Rock is losing its identity. White Rock Council for a number of years haven't been following the rules in my mind.”
During the interview last week with Daisy in her shop as people dropped in Daisy had a warm hello for everyone and punctuated the majority of the greetings with the person’s name. Daisy and her little shop will be missed by a legion of long time customers who find themselves popping in, if for no other reason than just to say hello to Daisy and to see how she is doing.
Let me tell you. At 91 years of age Daisy is doing just fine. Her leaving will leave more than a hole in the ground.
To find out more information on the DRIVING MISS DAISY service please visit their web site (CLICK HERE)
15202 Pacific Avenue FIVE CORNERS District
White Rock
604-538-6600
Glen, Brodie & Laura Corrale
(missing in action/at school - 10 year old daughter Sophia)
April 29, 2010
Laura Corrale grew up in East Vancouver and learned the service industry in her family's bakery on Commercial Drive. It wasn't until she met her husband Glen a few years ago that she was introduced to White Rock. "I had never even been to White Rock before I met Glen. I remember the first time he brought me to White Rock I fell in love with it's beauty."
After moving to White Rock Laura made the commute into Vancouver on a daily basis. "My brother took over my parent's bakery FRITELLI'S, located at the corner of Commercial Drive and Second Avenue, right in the heart of Vancouver's Little Italy district. I managed the bakery for a number of years before I moved out to White Rock. The drive into Vancouver everyday was starting to get me down a bit. We had our son Brodie 7 months ago. I had always thought someday I would like to have my own place so Glen and I started to look around the area to see what was available."
The search took Laura and Glen far and wide in the White Rock/South Surrey area and then the tumblers of the universe fell into place. Laura explains how she ended up at White Rock's Five Corners district and as they say the rest is history. "One night I was on the internet checking out real estate web sites just to see if there was anything we had missed and I saw the ad for COFFEE WITH ATTITUDE. I knew of the coffee shop because twice a week I would bring my daughter Sophia across the street to 4 Cats Art Studio for her art lessons. I had never come across the street though because being a busy Mom I would drop Sophia off and go do some grocery shopping or race home and put in a load of laundry. So when we saw the ad Glen and I came down the next day and met Ruth the previous owner. I fell in love with the location right away. Once we negotiated the deal to purchase the business I asked Ruth if I could work with her for a month to get to know her regular customers. I am glad I did that it has worked out really well. In the month that I have been open I have had the opportunity to see how close knit the community is and how tight knit it is."
The new COFFEE WITH ATTITUDE has expanded the menu to include a wide variety of pastries baked fresh daily by Laura or delivered fresh from the family bakery on Commercial Drive. The lunch menu has now expanded to include salads, gourmet soups, panini sandwiches and fresh daily soups. Laura is creating a menu that she feels reflects a healthy west coast feel. In the future she also hopes to begin serving a few breakfast items like omelet and the likes.
By her own admission Laura is a workaholic yet she is learning to take the time to stop and enjoy the beauty of White Rock. "Everyday after work I put some good music on the car stereo and I drive from one end of White Rock to the other end along Marine Drive and look out over the ocean and I am constantly blown away at how beautiful it is here. I love the ocean. We also love to take family walks along the promenade."
COFFEE WITH ATTITUDE is presently open 6 days a week from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. but Laura has more than coffee brewing. "I have spoken to the strata council of the condominiums that the shop is located in and I would like to institute later hours during the summer. I plan on expanding the seating outside with the blessing of the strata. If all this happens I will then expand my dessert menu so people out for a walk on a summer's night can stop in and enjoy a coffee, tea or cold drink and a pastry. I would also like to see if I can arrange for some live music on certain evenings. The other thing I hope to do is start opening on Sundays. I hope to be in the position to hire extra staff soon, but right now the juggling act of 6 days a week and all the responsibilities of raising a young family, well there just are not enough hours in the day to do everything I want to. I am a total people person doing what I love. This is me. I finally found me " says Laura as she jumps up to greet another new customer coming through the door of COFFEE WITH ATTITUDE.
Open daily Monday-Saturday 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Cynthia Stewart
The 4Cats Arts Studio is smack dab in the middle of my trap line. The route I walk from my home to uptown White Rock takes me right along the 4Cats building at 5 Corners. The bright coloured paintings that festoon the walls have brightened up more than one rainy day.
This week I finally found the time to drop in to see what was up with the 4 Cats Arts Studio. That is how I met Cynthia Stewart.
Owner of 4Cats CYNTHIA STEWART was born and raised in Victoria. Like so many young people there came a point in her life where Island Fever sent her across the Georgia Strait to Vancouver. Her journey to White Rock and the subsequent opening of 4Cats was less direct.
STEWART explains how her course was charted at a young age. "When I was young I was diagnosed with dyslexia. It wasn't that many years ago but the treatment was to take me out of all my art classes which I loved, and put me more in the sciences and math classes. The belief was this was preparing me for the work force. The thought was no one could make a living with art." The result of this draconian thinking was CYNTHIA spent a great deal of time after school pursuing her love of drawing and painting.
Upon graduating from high school in Victoria CYNTHIA enrolled in Vancouver's EMILY CARR UNIVERSITY OF ART & DESIGN. With a bachelor degree in hand from the college CYNTHIA was faced with the challenge of paying off her student loans. "I wanted something that was creative and I quickly was drawn to the film industry. I loved working in the film industry. I am one of 8 women out of 400 Lighting I.A.T.S.E union members in British Columbia. The work was long hours and very grueling work, but it was creative and I enjoyed it very much."
Fast forward I wonder how working in the film industry led her to the 4 Cats and subsequently White Rock. It all makes sense when you hear CYNTHIA'S story.
"It came to me from the universe. Working in the film industry there are a lot of long hours and strenuous work and to relieve the stress I was going to a reiki therapist. One day she said to me, I see you working with children, I said really. You are teaching the children art and the word Montessori keeps coming up. I thought O.K. Sometimes you just have to step outside the box. I went home and typed in Montessori schools to get some information. My husband came home and I stopped what I was doing to make us supper. My friend from upstairs came in and said I have something for you, he gave me a pamphlet. I put it on the counter and said I will check it later. He said it sounds like you. My husband picked up the pamphlet and went into the living room. A few minutes later he came back into the kitchen and told me what the pamphlet was all about. It is a Montessori Art Studio for children, called 4Cats Arts Studio I just about dropped the dishes, I was shocked. I grabbed the pamphlet and quickly looked at it and realized I had all the qualifications they were looking for. I just decided right there and then I had to follow my dream and this obvious path."
Well that answered the question of how CYNTHIA ended up opening the 4CATS ARTS STUDIO, but now the question I wanted to ask, how and why White Rock?
"My husband and I are both artists and we love to paint outside. We were living in Vancouver at the time. We decided we would go for a drive out this way. We had never been to White Rock. We fell in love instantly. Driving around White Rock we kept seeing places we thought would be perfect for painting. This is beautiful, look at the ocean. As we were driving down Johnston Road we saw this location with a For Lease sign. It was scary for us, in that in Vancouver there are a number of 4 Cats franchises and they are very well known so people already knew about what 4 Cats Arts Studios do. Out this way were faced with the proposition of being the first outlet and knew there would be a learning curve of informing the public.
The name 4 Cats Art Studio has an interesting story. Pablo Picasso and his buddies would meet at a local cafe to discuss their paintings in Barcelona Spain. Some of his famed sketches still adorn the walls. Back then Picasso and his friends were starving artists. CYNTHIA tells the story of someone who came in to her shop at 5 Corners who had recently been in Spain and actually visited the namesake of her business the visitor said he recently visited the restaurant and found out "The owner at the time used to think Picasso and 3 of his artists friends seemed like starving stray cats. The owner of the restaurant of the day said if you draw me some pictures on my white place mats I will give you some food. Who knows some of the young artists that frequent our 4 Cats here in White Rock may on day be world famous. Here at 4 Cats we believe in mentoring young artists. Like anything you need someone to teach you the basics. If you are a figure skater, someone had to teach you how to lace up your skates. That is what I like to we are doing here at 4 Cats."
4Cats Art Studio offers scheduled classes. Each month an artist is chosen. Students study 2 artists each semester. The children are taught the brush strokes and paint colour choice of the various artists being studied. There are Fall, Winter and Spring Sessions and Summer Camps. The summer camps vary slightly given the students are out of regular school so the scheduling is slightly different. Cynthia is proud to say the canvas they use is non-toxic and Canadian made. The resulting artwork of the students will last forever given it is painted on canvas.
   
Then there is the SPLATTER ROOM. If you have walked by 4Cats you will have seen one room that looks like a paint bomb exploded. "Our splatter room is used for exactly what the name indicates. A place where the children can splatter a big canvas with paint they have chosen. There are a number of different theme parties we book the room out for. If anyone would like more information on hosting a birthday party or any kind of party here in the splatter room they can find more information on our web site, or they can simply call us for more information" says STEWART.
After starting up her business and making the commute from Vancouver CYNTHIA and her husband now make their home in Ladner. “My young students used to ask me, Cynthia do you live on your roof?” The travel was getting a little tiresome, and the traffic was a bit of a problem. From Ladner to White Rock is a beautiful drive. I love to paint along the corridor between White Rock and Ladner.
CYNTHIA STEWART. We are happy your life journey led you to our door @ 5 Corners.
Visit 4Cats Arts Studio web site (CLICK HERE)
Marching To Our Different Drummer
RHYTHM WELLNESS - Billy Knutson
Billy Knutson owner of White Rock’s Functional Fysical Fitness (see below)
has been on a personal physical and mental quest for years.
A number of years back Knutson studied and practiced yoga as a part of his wellness
and fitness regime. It was at a yoga retreat that Knutson turned an important
page in his present day look at total wellness and fitness. “I was at
a yoga retreat in central Oregon up in the mountains, it was simply breathtaking.
One of the central buildings was the yoga sanctuary, an octagon shaped building.
One night I was walking back to my cabin and I heard the sound of drumming from
the yoga sanctuary. At that point in my life I tended to be a shy person, but
the drums called me and I couldn’t resist inviting myself into the building.
There was 8 people drumming and I picked up a large frame drum and just joined
in, which was out of character for me at that point in my life. It was an amazing
experience for me, I am not sure how long it lasted, because as I have subsequently
learned when you get into the drumming ‘zone’ you really lose all
track of time. I was hooked! For the rest of my time there, I did more drumming
than yoga. I was consumed by the drumming."
Upon returning home Billy had a new appreciation for the drumming and world
music he’d collected and he dusted off what he’d thought was a djembe
drum from the back of his closet. “After my experience at the yoga retreat
I realized what it was not a djembe drum but a doumbek”. Liking the sound
of the djembe drum, he began looking for used drums for sale. He found a minister
who traveled to Africa and would bring back some drums and sell them. “I
went to look at the drums he had for sale, and couldn’t make up my mind
so I bought all four of them”. “After all I justified to myself,
I didn’t want to drum alone, I wanted to drum with people and feel the
original joy of the yoga retreat” says Knutson over a cup of green tea
in his neighbourhood café Java Express in uptown White Rock.
Knutson immersed himself in the culture. He began reading books on drumming,
taking drum lessons, enrolled in a course on drum circle facilitation. Within
2 weeks he’d amassed quite a collection of percussion instruments and
began advertising and conducting drum circles out of his fitness studio which
at the time was located in Ocean Park.”
For the past four years Knutson has followed his rhythmic muse. He studies 3
different styles of hand drum lessons from different teachers, and on average
Billy will drum 8 – 15 hours per week. “I developed RhythmWellness
as the social aspect of health and wellness that blends perfectly into a total
wellness company.”
We are surrounded by music. Rhythm is everywhere and in everything living. It
is the rhythm that draws us to music and makes us move. Knutson maintains we
would be hard pressed to find anyone in the world that has not at some point
been moved to tap their fingers or toes to some music. But in western civilization
music has become primarily presentational, not participatory. It has not always
been like this. Before electricity participatory music making was very prevalent
and very good for community.
There is nothing more natural than rhythm. It lives in us and is good for us.
When one is able to get past their external and internal conditioning and self-erected
inhibitions listen and allow it, the music will flow in and out of them. That
is what Knutson does with RhythmWellness, using drums and percussion instruments,
facilitating in the moment, participatory community music making. Everyone can
play, no experience necessary, only the desire to contribute, to be a part of
the music, a part of the circle.
It is human nature when something touches us, the way that original chance meeting
of the drummers at the yoga studio touched Billy, we want to pass along the
joy we have found.
To that extent Knutson for some time now has been conducting Drum Circles here
in White Rock. Sessions take place Thursdays @ 7:30 p.m. for the summer in the
beautiful new Community Centre located in Miramar Village (behind the whaling
wall).
To learn more about Rhythm Wellness and Billy Knutson, please visit his website.
Rhythm & Creativity are two of our most natural human endowments.
_We are biologically hard-wired to respond to rhythms, tones, vibrations and
melodies. Unhealthy rhythms are pandemic in modern society and cause adverse
responses that interrupt our natural flow and undermine our efforts to create
wellness
Consequences of unhealthy rhythms show up as high stress levels, compromised
immune function, mental confusion, emotional disorders, unhealthy dietary habits,
disrupted sleep patterns, poor concentration, procrastination and apathy.
Rhythm is everywhere and everything resonates with a unique rhythm. Healthy
evolution of civilization and community has always depended upon our innate
capacity to create and relate to rhythms and music.
BILLY KNUTSON - Functional Fysical Fitness Inc.
Wednesday May 27, 2009
Tucked away in a below street level location Functional Fysical
Fitness might well be a shop you have passed a hundred times without paying
it much attention.
Owner BILLY KNUTSON was born and raised in North Vancouver and moved to the
Sunshine Coast for his teen years. “After I graduated from high school
I returned to the North Shore to attend Capilano College without a specific
plan. It was 1980 when gold was worth $1000 an ounce, a cousin called me from
Dawson City inviting me and my brother to go up and try gold mining. So I went
to Dawson City where I pursued gold mining for several years.”
During his gold mining period KNUTSON was very active physically and involved
in sports. The gold creeks of Dawson provided a comfortable living for a number
of years, and then one-year things changed, getting a job that paid less with
poorer working conditions, the allure of gold mining faded, says KNUTSON over
green tea at the neighbourhood Java Express.
The year was 1986 and after a short period of soul searching the answer to his
future endeavours became crystal clear to a young man at a fork in the road
of life. Health & Fitness. “I came back to the mainland and enrolled
in a certification course at the YMCA to become a personal trainer. From there
I went on to work at Gold’s Gym and other various gyms around Vancouver,
I became involved in martial arts, body building, and cycling, health became
my passion.”
KNUTSON over the course of 5 years of full time personal training and instructing
came to the conclusion, there was something inherently wrong with the traditional
method of training. The predicted results were not occurring. I was also dismayed
that many of the trainers I knew and saw working really trained humans like
you’d train animals. Run – Fetch – Jump it really was becoming
ridiculous to me.”
“In 1996 I took a different personal training program offered by the National
Strength and Conditioning Association, NSCA. I was exposed to so much more extensive,
valuable information that set me on a different course for personal training.
At that point I went back to the drawing board on how I would train people.
This included taking a lifestyle coaching program also, as I realized that fitness
was really a lifestyle. The new training regimen KNUTSON created took into the
obvious but often overlooked the main difference between “animals and
humans”.
“I started to identify unique human endowments, primarily identifying
the brain and nervous system and the resultant ‘functions’ that
this wonderfully complex system provides, ie; self-awareness, consciousness,
choice, and intelligence to name a few.
To study humans I realized I needed to understand more than just physiology,
anatomy and kinesiology, I also needed to understand and some psychology, sociology,
and even anthropology and how it could pertain to physical training, health
and wellness."
At the end of his studies and practical application of his findings KNUTSON
in 1998 was confident he had created an effective form of fitness training,
and FUNCTIONAL FYSICAL FITNESS was born. BILLY has a very simple and unique
way to describe how he formulates physical programs that are custom made for
each individual. “From my studies I came to the conclusion, we all have
the same basic “hardware”, two arms, two legs, a brain, a heart
etc. What makes us unique though is we all have our own unique “software”,
our life experience, in other words we all have a different operating system.”
So the key to Functional Fysical Fitness is applying this knowledge both intellectually
and experientially while utilizing our unique human attributes.
Contact BILLY KNUTSON at FUNTIONAL FYSICAL FITNESS INC through their website
www.fffit.com, or call for an appointment to
drop in or for more info 604-535-5065
*Next Week – We learn about a completely different side of BILLY KNUTSON.
In addition to his fitness company KNUTSON is very involved locally with “Rhythm
Wellness.” www.rhythmwellness.com
OCEAN PARK MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION
com_mu_ni_ty [kuh-myoo-ni-tee]
–noun
a social group of any size whose members reside in a specific locality, share
government, and often have a common cultural and historical heritage.
The White Rock Sun was born out of a love for “community.” Like
so many people these days we find ourselves thinking about global problems yet
it is right here in our community that we can affect the most change.
Daily I see examples of people wishing to connect with their community, in this
case the White Rock & South Surrey footprint.
During my sales calls a couple of weeks back I popped over to Ocean Park. I
had seen evidence there was a group of merchants operating together to strengthen
their community.
Having lived for a number of years on the Ocean Park bluffs I was well aware
of the area and the numerous gems the area affords.
In short order I was introduced to Sandra Smith the owner of Cotton ‘’n’
Crayon Children’s Wear & Toys. Sandra was kind enough to provide me
a bit of background on and an overview of the Ocean Park Merchants Association.
A loose amalgam of people living and working in the Ocean Park area that had
come together to strengthen their community.
Last Thursday I accepted an offer to join the Ocean Park group for their monthly
lunch at the Ocean Park community hall. Upon my arrival dutifully at the pre-arranged
time I was pleasantly surprised to see a dozen or so business owners assembled
and ready to get down to business.
The meeting lasted roughly an hour and there was no wasted time. Items were
brought forward, discussed and dealt with in a no nonsense manner. Each person’s
views and concerns were dealt with and prioritized on a time line for immediate
action or further discussion.
Recently the community of Ocean Park learned the City of Surrey
was set to add some traffic calming changes to the Ocean Park area. As the community
felt there had been little of nor conversation with the community, Surry City
Hall was contacted. A rep for the city came to last month's meeting, heard the
concerns from the community and agreed to study their plans further and work
with the merchants and residents. Voila!
First on the schedule of events for Ocean Park is this Saturday. The OPCA presents
a Garage/Parking Lot Sale. Bring you stuff treasures you found in your spring
cleaning or simply drop by and browse the tables of other people’s treasures.
The community sale is on Saturday 9 – 2. For information on reserving
a table please call 604-538-2460.
Stay tuned and keep reading THE SUN for all the community news from Ocean Park.
TRACYCAKES
For years McBride's Cafe was the epicenter for locals on the
waterfront on Marine Drive. I have a feeling the latest in a long line of occupants
of the space TRACYCAKES is here to stay.
Tracy Dueck sat down Thursday the day prior to her grand opening
to provide insight into the history of Tracycakes and its future with White
Rock. "Tracycakes reminds me of the movie Field of Dreams. I believe if
you build it, they will come. At our other two locations in Fort Langley and
Abbotsford when I see the lineup snaking out the front door I think of the scene
from the movie when you see all those car lights coming across the rural landscape
of Iowa. For some reason they are being drawn. I believe it is the same way,
people are drawn to our restaurants."
As life as a stay at home mother was coming to its natural conclusion
Tracy began to think about what she might like to do with her soon to be abundant
spare time. "Someone said to me, why don't you open a restaurant. It really
wasn't something I had given a lot of thought to but the more I did think about
it, the more attractive the idea was. I did not have any culinary or business
experience so I have relied heavily on input from my staff, friends and our
customers. The growth has been very organic" says Dueck between quick conversations
with suppliers as she readies the opening of her third location.
TRACYCAKES first opened in Fort Langley, and within 2 years the
second location was opened in her hometown of Abbotsford. Why White Rock for
the third locale? "Well like so many people in the Valley I am drawn to
the beach of White Roc. I have been coming here for years. Last August my husband
and I came to White Rock to run our dog at the off leash park at East Beach,
and I saw all these people walking along eating ice cream cones. I said to myself
why can't all those people be eating tracycakes? I first looked at the vacant
location of Grapes just up the street from here and in the end it just didn't
seem to work for what I was looking for. I walked away from that deal and was
strolling down Marine Drive when I found this space for rent. I really did not
see anyone else offering the type of dining experience we were offering. It
only took a couple of months from finding this location to renovating it and
preparing ourselves for the opening of our third location."
TRACYCAKES menu includes a selection of unique sandwiches including
pannini sandwiches, beautiful salads including their signature salad a Waldorf
salad built upon Tracy's grandmother's recipe, and hot entrees including chicken
pot pie, chili, quiche, shepard's pie and their famous fresh daily soups.
Tracy is also very proud of a unique twist to their menu. "We
offer High Tea daily. It comes with finger sandwiches, sausage rolls, fresh
fruit, a selection of scones and our famous homemade devonshire cream. All offered
up in a beautiful presentation on a three tiered serving tray. We also serve
our tea properly in a traditional tea pot. We serve High Tea all day long, but
most people prefer to have it at 3 p.m. If you call ahead we will be happy to
prepare your table especially for you, so when you walk in it really is a beautiful
experience."
From the moment they swung the doors wide open on Friday, mother
nature co-operated and the deck at Tracycakes was one of the hottest spots along
the waterfront. We dropped in for lunch on Sunday and met a couple of friends
who had already had their lunch, and learned the borscht was thick enough to
stand your fork up in it. Yummy. The Luckiest Girl In The World opted for the
quiche and a cappucino, while I chose a lovely grilled pannini sandwich. Both
menu items were prepared beautifully and the experience was heightened by personal
attentive service from our waitress.
Tracy Dueck
When we received our bill a small business card informed us
"Nothing happens unless.......first we dream."
He's Back!
.....and we couldn't be happier
 
There is nothing ROB AHLGREN owner of Beecher Street Cafe likes better than
a good party. Great music, good food and wine and a gathering of friends does
not a dull man make according to the Tao of Rob.
In the early 80’s about the time most of us were thinking about buying
a Commodore 64 AHLGREN was working for a computer company in Surrey.
One day/night ROB came down to White Rock with some friends. The city’s
bohemian sub-culture immediately attracted AHLGREN and he soon found himself
couch surfing and literally camping out on the beach to be near the town he
fell in love with.
Love also played a big part in the next phase of AHLGREN’S life. “My
girlfriend at the time convinced me she could get me a job at the restaurant
where she worked. I thought she was dreaming, I never cleaned up the plates
at home, let alone in a restaurant. She persisted and the next thing I knew
I was working at the original ULI’S on Marine Drive. It was funny because
I was quite possibly the worst waiter, but my girlfriend and her friend covered
for me.” It wasn’t all a bed of roses in those early days though
as ROB explains, “ULI used to pull me aside and tell me he should fire
me because I was such a bad waiter, but he told me Rob I should fire you, but
I can’t EVERYONE likes you” so I stayed on.”
AHLGREN worked his way through a number of Marine Drive culinary castles including
Charlie’s before relocating down to Crescent Beach. “I got a job
at the Crescent Beach Bistro. I would walk up and down Beecher Street on the
way to and from work. One day I noticed Dimitri’s Greek Restaurant had
a For Lease sign in the window.” Not exactly being flush with money in
those days due to the aforementioned passions of his life. AHLGREN and his friend
HERB AARTSEN who had a bit of money floating around decided to go into the restaurant
business for themselves, so they signed the lease, gutted the old Greek restaurant
and in 1993 swung wide the doors to The Beecher Street Cafe.
“We did a lot of the major renovations ourselves, partly out of necessity
given our financial status at the time. Within 4 years though we took over the
clothing store that was next door and in 1997 we expanded and doubled our capacity.
Like every business there are ebbs and flows in the restaurant business, but
I am very proud and happy with what we have developed here in Crescent Beach”
says AHLGREN.
With everything on track and rolling right along, AHLGREN and his wife TARA
decided perhaps in order to be able to buy a home and settle down a bit, they
might have to look at the Interior. “One day I went on the Internet and
started looking at properties in the Okanagan. In short order I found a beautiful
log home on a hillside overlooking Kelowna and the lake. We cane up looked at
it and made arrangements to purchase the home.”
Originally AHLGREN had planned on leaving the restaurant in capable hands and
commuting back to the Beecher Street Café a couple of times a month.
That worked out fine for a few months, but then AHLGREN made another major move
in his life. “Tara and I had seen an old heritage house that housed a
restaurant a number of times when we were driving through Kelowna, it was called
The Williams Inn. Though we hadn’t planned on opening a restaurant when
we moved to the Okanagan before long we had another restaurant, this one called
The Yellow House.”
Juggling two restaurants 350 miles apart has posed its challenges. “Tara
and I have gone our separate ways personally but we still remain partners in
the Yellow House restaurant. I decided recently it was time for me to put a
little more time and effort back into Beecher Street. I have a number of changes
planned that will take place over the next few months here at the restaurant.
I am planning on continuing our Wednesday Night music series with perhaps a
change or two, maybe a special concert or two. I also am going to institute
a new food menu as well as a very unique wine list. By living in the Okanagan
and getting to know a lot of the vintners I am able to buy cases of their limited
wines. In that they do not produce enough to feed the liquor store system, the
choice and unique wines will now be available at Beecher Street Cafe.”
In order to offer patrons of Beecher Street a unique opportunity to sample these
wines, AHLGREN will be offering “wine paddles.” Each paddle will
have a 2 oz sample of a red, a white and a port with a selection of cheeses.
 
The Beecher Street Cafe will also be hosting “special” evening the
last Thursday of every month. April is locked down with a SPRING WINE DINNER
and the final touches are being put on a special night of music in March at
The Beecher Street Cafe.
Friends - ROB AHLGREN is back. You know what that means. Let The Party Begin.
Thursday FEBRUARY 26th
COMEDY NIGHT
Featuring
Billy Mitchell
with special guest
J.P. Mass
Join us for a great evening of dining and comedy. We are fortunate
to have two of Canada’s finest comedians performing at Beecher Street
Café.
The evening includes a three course gourmet dinner and the entertainment for
only $60 per person.
To reserve for either of these great evenings give us a call at
604-538-1964.
1763 King George Highway South Surrey
Dwayne & Sharon Jacobson
The Roadhouse Grille in South Surrey defies description. In a time when local
businesses, in particular restaurants are ringing their hands in anguish, The
Roadhouse is expanding.
The humble beginnings of The Roadhouse stretch back to 1997 when John &
Linda Cody opened a funky little restaurant in the strip mall anchored by Mac’s
milk. John and Linda had both logged many years in the Vancouver music scene.
John as a respected drummer and Linda as a talent agent. Thus the theme of the
original Roadhouse boasted a musical theme in the decor.
The present owners Dwayne and Sharon Jacobson were enlisted when the Cody’s
decided to end their marital and business relationship.
When pressed if he had any restaurant background prior to becoming the somewhat
reluctant owner of the Roadhouse, Dwayne does not hesitate for a moment in replying
sternly “NO!” With a chuckle Dwayne begins to explain what The Roadhouse
means to him, and indirectly what it means to the legions of customers who frequent
the restaurant from early morning for breakfast to the evening for dinner 7
days a week. “When we first took over the restaurant one of the first
things that changed was the “live music”, as John and Linda were
very musician friendly most of the performers were great, but they wanted to
give a concert, and we were looking for basically background music, so that
was our first change. Since moving into the new location we have re-introduced
music but in a slightly different form. We have a piano player by the name of
Dennis Enns who performs every Friday & saturday evening from 6-8 p.m. He
plays all kinds of music and takes requests, it makes for a more relaxed fun
environment. One of the other things we did, was we started to collect more
of the old 50’s style tables in the Roadhouse portion of the restaurant.
Originally there was just one table and set of chairs, so we decided we liked
the look and began to search out all the other sets of tables you now see”
says Wayne as he proudly tours the restaurant.
  
While maintaining the original "diner" decor, the new
Roadhouse offers a martini bar and casual fine dining.
The newly redesigned Roadhouse which is a few businesses from its original location
boasts the feeling of 3 distinct restaurants. You have the original funky 50’s
diner/roadhouse main room, a beautiful martini sit up bar complete with a large
flat screen TV that seems to run continuously on the sports channel, and adjoining
the bar is a more casual upscale surrounding. Hard to believe but some people
don’t share my enthusiasm for the 50’s kitsch.
Another major change in the revamped Roadhouse Grille was the menu explains
Dwayne “Originally the menu leaned very heavily towards vegetarian with
a couple of turkey and chicken dishes. Due to constant requests from the early
customers we started with, we expanded the menu considerably.”
Since taking over The Roadhouse the Jacobson’s have seen steady growth
of 25% annually on their investment. “We considered closing the original
restaurant for renovations as the equipment and interior were in need of some
major upgrades. We decided when the defunct pool hall (Cue Ball) became available,
rather than be closed for 4 or 5 months renovating the old space, we would simply
gut the pool hall make some changes and expand the restaurant” says Dwayne
between saying hello to the satisfied customers and friends as they drift in
and out of the restaurant.
So why is The Roadhouse Grille expanding in these tough economic times. Dwayne’s
response rolls off his tongue as if he almost tires of a question he has answered
too often. “It is all about heart. Plain and simple you have to have heart
for whatever you are doing. I think all our staff feels it and passes it along
to our customers. Our baker and one of our servers have been with us since we
bought the restaurant. We take pride in all our staff. Some of our staff have
actually become minor partners in the business. Everything we serve is fresh.
We pride ourselves in the care and attention we put forth to quality and good
service. We want people to leave The Roadhouse satisfied.” Sharon has
her own take on why the restaurant is so popular. One word. “People.”
Yes Indeed I say. From the people that own it,to the people that cook the meals,
the servers who bring it to your table, and of course the people that frequent
The Roadhouse. It is a circle of people, a circle of life. What goes around
comes around for all to partake, for all to enjoy.
The list of special cool features at The Roadhouse seems endless. A Treasure
Chest playroom for the kids, plans for an outdoor patio to open in the spring,
plus a bakery and cheese shop that will be located next door to The Roadhouse
Grille.
Another story – for another day.
Roadhouse Grille
1763 King George Highway
Stayte Street (160th) @ King George Highway
604-538-3177
Dr. Bijana Grubac
A true neighbour is there for you in a time of need. Last weekend my wife Laurie
and I suffered a loss to our extended family. Our beloved cat “Deeter”
had stopped eating on Thursday, by early Saturday morning she took a turn for
the worse.
Just to back up for a moment, both Laurie and I had not had a long history with
cats. Laurie had only had one cat in her life and due to circumstances beyond
her control she had to give it up to a friend. As I have always been allergic
to cats, I had no real point of reference, this was my first cat. Every stage
of being a cat owner was a new experience for me.
When Deeter’s condition escalated early last Saturday morning, even though
it was 3 o’clock in the morning we called the only veterinarian we had
used in the area, The South Point Pet Hospital. Our one and only experience
had been wonderful. The message on South Point’s message machine informed
us they were closed but if it was an emergency we should call an animal hospital
in Fleetwood or Langley which were open 24 hours.
We rushed the cat in the early morning hours to Langley, they stabilized her
but we took “Deeter” to South Point as soon as they opened at 9
a.m. Saturday.
Though we arrived with no appointment and the hospital was dealing with an emergency
the staff at South point welcomed us and consoled us and our sick cat until
Dr. Bijana Grubac was free to examine our cat. The care and compassion that
was shown by Dr. Grubac made us feel confident we were doing everything we could
for our kitty.
Sadly “Deeter’s” condition worsened over the weekend. By Monday
afternoon after an ultrasound Dr. Grubac delivered us the sad news, our cat
was riddled with cancer and there wasn’t much hope she would live with
any quality of life. We made the painful decision it would be best for her to
be put to sleep. Dr. Grubac walked us through the process and asked us how we
would like to do it.
South Point has an actual “comfort room” for just such a heartbreaking
event. Laurie and I were numb. Our emotions flowed to the surface, yet looking
back on it, I am thankful we had such a compassionate and caring group of professionals
there to assist us.
Yesterday in our mail, we received a beautiful hand written note from the Staff
at South Point wishing us the best in our time of sadness.
Dr. Grubac and your staff, thank you. For "being there" for us in
our time of need.
Visit the South Point Animal Hospital web site
www.southpointvet.com
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