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Burnaby North-Seymour Candidates

We wanted to know how candidates are planning to represent local issues. It’s easy to find party-wide platforms, but often those don’t reflect our neighbourhood in any way. LynnValleyLife offered each of the big four parties’ candidates a chance to give their local pitch. 

The offer

This year Lynn Valley is split down the middle and into two ridings—twice as many candidates and twice as many signs on the roads. We have the west side represented, as in the past, by North Vancouver-Capilano and the east by Burnaby North-Seymour.

We emailed the candidates for the Conservative Party, the Green Party, the Liberal Party and the NDP. We sent the same questions to each person with the same deadline. Of the seven candidates who were reachable, four responded.

In Burnaby North-Seymour, Conservative Mauro Francis’ website is down, and there is no direct contact information available on the Conservative website, so he was deemed unreachable.  While the Greens list a candidate, the representative did not officially register for the election.

In North Vancouver-Capilano, there was no response from NDP’s Tammy Bentz or the Conservatives’ Stephen Curran.

Thank you to the candidates who shared their thoughts:

Terry Beech, Liberal


Micheal Charrois, NDP

The Q&A

What is your connection to the North Shore, and how will you specifically serve the unique community of Lynn Valley?

Terry Beech, Liberal: 

Since 2015, I’ve had the honour of representing the North Shore east of Lynn Creek. With the riding boundaries changing two years ago, it has been a pleasure getting to know the Lynn Valley community. Over the past couple of years, I’ve been out knocking on doors and attending local community events and parades, so you have a chance to get to know me—as I work to earn your trust and support. I’m committed to working tirelessly on your behalf, alongside Jonathan Wilkinson, just as we always have.

Michael Charrois, NDP:

I have lived in North Vancouver since 2006. Working with Susie Chant on the frontlines with community members has been a privilege. The Grouse Grind is a vivid memory I share with my wife Jacqueline. I was the president of the lower Lonsdale community garden and I have had a green thumb since 2012. I never have to worry about watering my gardens here. It has been an amazing place to live and call home.

What is your greatest priority for the riding? 

Beech, Liberal

Traffic and Transit: As the only MP representing communities on both sides of the Second Narrows Bridge, I understand firsthand that addressing congestion and improving transit requires strong collaboration across all levels of government. This isn’t just a transportation issue—it’s about affordability, livability, and ensuring people can live, work, and play in the communities they call home. We’ve already made significant investments—outlined in more detail [below]—but there’s still more to be done. I’m committed to continuing this work as we build stronger, more connected, and more sustainable communities.

Charrois, NDP:

We want better material conditions for the people of North Vancouver. We want to improve transit and alleviate bridge congestion. But we would be remiss if we did not prioritize housing, healthcare and affordability as well.

How will you ensure Lynn Valley (and the portions of the North Shore in the riding) residents are heard and how will you specifically serve the unique community of Lynn Valley and ensure our needs are not lost as they differ greatly from Burnaby? Ex. Federal transit funding and needs are very different than those of Burnaby (That is Burnaby is one of the most transit accessible communities in the Lower Mainland and Lynn Valley/Deep Cove are the least)?

Beech, Liberal: 

Although Lynn Valley is new to this riding, I have represented the North Shore east of Lynn Creek since 2015 and have gone door to door to thousands of homes on the North Shore since 2015 to understand and represent the unique challenges residents face. I have worked side-by-side with Jonathan Wilkinson as we tackle common challenges such as traffic, transit, and affordability, a few examples of which are outlined in Question [5]. The needs of Burnaby North and North Vancouver are distinct but interconnected, and I work diligently and do my best to deliver for all residents.

Charrois, NDP:

It bears repeating that myself and the NDP would bring robust and effective transit measures to North Vancouver and Lynn Valley, promptly if elected. I have lived and worked in Lynmore and lower Lonsdale since 2006. I am acutely aware of the impact on lifestyle that bridge congestion brings the people of North Vancouver.

How will you advocate for federal funding for major projects? The lack of more support for infrastructure like the wastewater plant has been frustrating.

Beech, Liberal: 

The North Shore sees strong representation in Ottawa from Liberal MPs who work tirelessly to ensure this community receives major investment opportunities, like the Phibbs Exchange renovation. We know that wastewater treatment is very important and that we must support municipal projects, which is why it was the largest single investment in Budget 2016. However, as the Wastewater Treatment Plant is entirely managed and controlled by Metro Vancouver, it is ultimately their responsibility to manage this project responsibly. North Shore residents are paying a disproportionate, if not unfair, share for the plant, and I continue to work with the responsible municipalities to find a resolution.

Charrois, NDP:

We would bring the voice of our constituents to parliament and cultivate personal relationships with people in positions of power. If elected, we could deal directly with major developers and the government. Imagine a deciding vote that works for you.

Will you advocate for improved bridge crossings as a key priority?

Beech, Liberal: 

The traffic on the bridge, as mentioned [above], is a top priority for me as your representative. Since 2015, the federal government has invested over $30 billion in transit and active transportation. On the North Shore, that means real results: $66.6 million for the Lynn Valley Bridge, $21.9 million for Highway 1 upgrades, $16.1 million for a third SeaBus, and $20.5 million for bus facility upgrades. We also contributed $200,000 for a Rapid Transit feasibility study—because we plan ahead, not just catch up. This has been and will continue to be a top priority for me.

On the North Shore, improved transit—such as rapid bus routes, dedicated lanes, ferry integration, or a SkyTrain extension—can improve bridge crossings by getting people out of personal vehicles and move more people using less space and with fewer emissions.

Charrois, NDP: 

We want to prioritize fare-free public transit to incentivize people to use transit over personal vehicles. This would reduce congestion and would lower emissions. A Burrard Inlet Rapid Transit would be expedited by a permanent Canada Public Transit Fund which would also include cost sharing agreements for operational funding. A  Canada Public Transit Fund would give the B.I.R.T access to federal funding immediately.

What is the biggest challenge for the riding in the years ahead, and why are you the best candidate to lead us through that?

Beech, Liberal:

Traffic congestion and tackling it is a big challenge for any elected official. I can lead us through this because I have maintained and established exceptional relationships with elected officials, provincially and municipally. Transit is a shared responsibility. It will not happen through a radical reform but rather it will be a result of marginal improvements compounded over the length of a potential term. You need someone in parliament to fight for you until the day we can call the transit project a success.

Charrois, NDP:

Traffic congestion and tackling it is a big challenge for any elected official. I can lead us through this because I have maintained and established exceptional relationships with elected officials, provincially and municipally. Transit is a shared responsibility. It will not happen through a radical reform but rather it will be a result of marginal improvements compounded over the length of a potential term. You need someone in parliament to fight for you until the day we can call the transit project a success.

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

April 20, 2025 in Blog, Governance and Services Comments (0)

North Vancouver-Capilano Candidates

We wanted to know how candidates are planning to represent local issues. It’s easy to find party-wide platforms, but often those don’t reflect our neighbourhood in any way. LynnValleyLife offered each of the big four parties’ candidates a chance to give their local pitch. 

The offer

This year Lynn Valley is split down the middle and into two ridings—twice as many candidates and twice as many signs on the roads. We have the west side represented, as in the past, by North Vancouver-Capilano and the east by Burnaby North-Seymour.

We emailed the candidates for the Conservative Party, the Green Party, the Liberal Party and the NDP. We sent the same questions to each person with the same deadline. Of the seven candidates who were reachable, four responded.

In North Vancouver-Capilano, there was no response from NDP’s Tammy Bentz or the Conservatives’ Stephen Curran.

In Burnaby North-Seymour, Conservative Mauro Francis’ website is down, and there is no direct contact information available on the Conservative website, so he was deemed unreachable.  While the Greens list a candidate, the representative did not officially register for the election.

Thank you to the candidates who shared their thoughts:

Andrew Robinson, Green


Jonathan Wilkinson, Liberal

The Q&A

What is your connection to the North Shore, and how will you specifically serve the unique community of Lynn Valley?

Andrew Robinson, Green: 

I am a family man with two teenagers who has lived in North Vancouver since 2009. My consulting business is based here, I am a North Shore outdoors enthusiast, and I have volunteered throughout the community. I would serve the community by:

  • Advocating for affordable housing and sustainable urban planning.
  • Supporting local businesses.
  • Fighting for fair taxation to ease the burden on low- and middle-income residents.
  • Investing in public services—from healthcare and education to transit and infrastructure—to ensure the community is well-supported.
  • Promoting climate resilience and preparing for environmental challenges.

Jonathan Wilkinson, Liberal:

I’ve lived in North Vancouver for about 27 years and raised my family here. I’ve spent much time on Lynn Valley trails, (my favourite of which is Hanes Valley), supported local small businesses, and spoken with countless residents about the issues that matter most— housing, seniors’ care, affordability and more. Over the last 9 years, I have been humbled to be Lynn Valley’s member of parliament, and have been a regular participant at Lynn Valley Days. While I now will share that my colleague Terry Beech due to the redistribution of riding boundaries – a map of which you can find on my website – I will continue to stand up for Lynn Valley’s priorities.

What is your greatest priority for the riding?

Robinson, Green:

My number one priority is to build a strong local economy that aligns environmental and economic goals by supporting existing clean industries like hydrogen development and sustainable shipbuilding. I will prioritize local procurement, invest in green infrastructure, and champion policies that reduce emissions while creating high-quality jobs. I will encourage innovation, training, and partnerships that grow local expertise in cleantech, services and marine industries. By focusing on sustainable growth and supporting North Vancouver businesses, we can strengthen the economy, protect the environment, and build long-term community resilience.

Wilkinson, Liberal:

Over the next four years, we must collectively forge a path to prosperity that embraces a more global orientation – and orientation of enhanced economic and social resilience. While there are many issues of importance affecting Canadians, Canada’s response to so many issues depends in large part on defending sovereignty and building a more resilient economy.

This must inevitably mean that we must;

  • Eliminate inter-provincial trade barriers
  • Enhance trade infrastructure and diversify trade partners.
  • Create greater housing affordability.
  • Enhance social resilience through programs like Dental Care, $10 a day childcare and pharmacare.
  • Fight climate change.

How will you advocate for federal funding for major projects? The lack of more support for infrastructure like the wastewater plant has been frustrating.

Robinson, Green: 

The Green Party advocates for the responsible management of taxpayer funds. For the wastewater treatment plant project, I would champion an increase to the original 30% federal contribution indexed to inflation to cover the increased costs without requesting a full bailout to the tune of $1.1B. Because federal contributions across BC and Canada matched what was promised for the treatment plant project, a full bailout would send the wrong signal to voters and taxpayers. However, in addition to the increase to cover inflation, I would convene stakeholders with all levels of government to explore various funding mechanisms that do not disproportionately impact North Shore residents.

Wilkinson, Liberal: (Edited for length, there is more information on his website)

The federal government is committed to funding and supporting major projects. We have invested billions in clean growth and infrastructure projects and will be instituting a one project, one review window to make sure major projects get built faster.

During 2014/15 Metro Vancouver was looking for a commitment from the federal government that it would provide ⅓ of the ~$700M in capital required to build a new wastewater treatment facility.

During the 2015 federal election campaign I committed to advocating for federal participation in this important project. And in the Liberal Government’s budget of 2016, funding for the treatment plant was the largest single item that was indeed funded.

As folks will likely know, the engineering and the cost estimating for this project – as for all municipal infrastructure – is done at the municipal level. The federal government has no expertise and indeed no direct involvement in this work. Unfortunately, the project that was budgeted to cost $700B, ballooned to $4B – and there are very legitimate questions that taxpayers should be asking Metro Vancouver about this escalation in costs, as it was their role to manage the project engineering and budget.

The project will be completed and work is presently underway – residents are rightly frustrated by the significant cost overruns and the disproportionate and unfair impact it will have on ratepayers here on the North Shore. We all should expect transparency and accountability from Metro Vancouver on this matter. See my full comment on this matter at my website: jonathanwilkinson.ca

Will you advocate for improved bridge crossings as a key priority?

Robinson, Green: 

The Green Party will strongly advocate for investing in improved public transit. The Canada Line, built ahead of the 2010 Olympics, has exceeded ridership expectations, significantly reduced car dependency, eased congestion on key routes, and connected people across the region faster and more reliably. It shows that when fast, frequent, and convenient transit is available, people choose it.

On the North Shore, improved transit—such as rapid bus routes, dedicated lanes, ferry integration, or a SkyTrain extension—can improve bridge crossings by getting people out of personal vehicles and move more people using less space and with fewer emissions.

Wilkinson, Liberal: 

I’ve long supported improvements to reduce congestion across the Ironworkers and Lions Gate bridges, like the Lower Lynn Highway 1 improvement. The federal government recently committed an investment of more than $2 billion over 10 years to provide Metro Vancouver’s transit network with long-term predictable capital funding.. This funding will, in part, go to implementing dedicated lane  Bus Rapid Transit on and from the North Shore as an initial step towards bringing SkyTrain to the North Shore.

What is the biggest challenge for the riding in the years ahead, and why are you the best candidate to lead us through that?

Robinson, Green:

Affordability! The Green Party is best positioned to tackle affordability in North Vancouver by addressing root causes with bold, integrated solutions. Our platform includes building affordable, energy-efficient housing, implementing a Guaranteed Livable Income, and eliminating income tax for low earners. We support local job creation through clean energy, services, shipbuilding, and hydrogen development, while investing in small businesses and transit infrastructure. By reforming taxation so wealthy and large corporations pay their fair share and ending fossil fuel subsidies, we’ll redirect public money toward services that directly benefit communities—making life more affordable and secure for everyone.

Wilkinson, Liberal:

Navigating economic uncertainty tied to Canada–U.S. trade tensions, including tariffs that threaten key industries right here on the North Shore, is the greatest threat facing our riding. We need to reduce our overreliance on the U.S. by expanding global trade partnerships and strengthening domestic supply chains—especially in clean technology, forestry, and advanced manufacturing.

I have spent significant time as a senior business executive and as a senior public servant. I have been an influential member of Cabinet for a number of years and more recently have been a member of the Canada-US Cabinet Committee that has  helped shape Canada’s response to tariffs, secure trade protections and support affected workers.

Over the past few years I have worked collaboratively with different levels of government to remove interprovincial trade barriers, while protecting local jobs and building a more resilient economy.

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

April 20, 2025 in Blog, Governance and Services Comments (0)

Lynn Valley will split the election

There will be twice as many election signs lining Mountain Highway this year because for the first time Lynn Valley will be split down the middle. Half will remain in North Vancouver (currently represented by Jonathan Wilkinson) and half will join Burnaby-North Seymour (currently held by Terry Beech).

Divided

The multi-year evaluation of electoral boundaries in Canada culminated with public input and official changes taking effect in 2023. This will be the first federal election with Lyn Valley divided by Mountain Highway. Previously the community was represented by one member of Parliament – Johnathan Wilkson – with the riding of North Vancouver. 

During the process there were a few different scenarios dividing Howe Sound, West Vancouver, City of North Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver. Previous elections have had those East of Lynn Creek in the District join North Burnaby. For the first time, parts of Lynn Valley and Grand Boulevard will join them.  

“The system is reviewed after every 10 year census that is to make sure electoral boundaries are fair and reasonable and reflect the population and where growth has been” said Dr. Caroline Elliott, a sessional instructor in the Political Science Department at SFU. “The main thing they look at is population equality.” 

Dr. Caroline Elliott

The goal is to make sure each district has approximately the same population within a province, with considerations to keep language, culture and history considered to to keep communities together, she said. 

“One of the big things they look at are geographic boundaries that make sense in less dense communities. In Northern British Columbia to get a [riding] density the same as metro Vancouver, it would take up so much physical land that it would be very hard to physically move throughout the region to represent the people effectively,” said Elliott. 

“We might think what does Deep Cove have to do with Hastings Street but also think of one community in the Peace region and a town completely out of the region represented by the same person.”

Less about space, more about people

Having Lynn divided could have challenges and benefits. There are now two voices in Parliament representing the neighbourhood but the percentage of voices within the ridings will be smaller. 

“I think there are impacts on the representative and on the communities,” said Elliott. “It’s challenging when it might not be close to their home. [West Vancouver–Sunshine Coast–Sea to Sky Country] from Pemberton to Sechelt – that puts the onus on the representative to get to know and understand communities that may have very different interests. The impact on those being representative is getting your voice heard can be difficult if traveling is required to be heard. A riding like North Vancou

ver-Capilano is much more contained, representing Ambleside, Edgemont, North Vancouver and parts of Lynn Valley.”

A split like Lynn Valley has faced can be jarring.

“Generally communities like to be kept whole,” said Elliott. “A lot of people in Lynn Valley may be thinking ‘Are we going to get the attention our community needs if they only represent half the people?’ It’s an excellent question to ask candidates about how they will listen to your community.”

Despite the discomfort of change, Canadians can feel protected by the process of electoral boundaries, she said. The process is independent from politicians and happens regularly and with a rigorously defined process. 

“There is a lot that goes into being a representative beyond geographic boundaries. Like community and interest groups and once they have been elected it is their job to do their absolute best to represent each and every person who lives in that riding,” said Elliott. “Regardless of whether they voted for them or not or whether they live in the area they live in or not. More than a boundary, I think it is the person that gets elected that matters.

“Get engaged in the electoral process, ask the questions about how we will be represented, ensuring the candidates are thinking about the new communities they are representing.”

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

April 1, 2025 in Blog, Governance and Services Comments (0)

Photo session

Lynn Valley’s iconic mountain bike trails have become the in-the-wild studio of North Shore photographer Lukáš Janko. The avid mountain biker has been working on a series of self-portraits.

Self control

Czech-born Janko was lured to the North Shore mountains by the promise of snowboarding. He soon incorporated another interest into his days on the slopes: photography. To amp up the challenge, he didn’t spend his time in the terrain park watching others; instead, he developed a technique for self-portraits. 

“I started with snowboard tricks,” said Janko. “I would practice the trick, then set up the composition of the photo with a wireless remote in my hand. It’s tough to get a nice photo by freezing a fraction of a moment. Something small like the body or arm position might not be right. It can take a lot of tries to get satisfied to match the image I have in my head.”

Thinking back, Janko ties his interest in art to his father’s side of the family and his grandfather, who also did photography. The long-held interest helped him build a portfolio of both action and art photography. Continuing to push his skills and achieve his artistic vision he level-uped his skills after building an enduro biking changing how he explored and interacted with the trails. 

“I actually had never experienced mountain biking when I moved here but there is only snow a few months of the year so I was looking for something else,” he said. “After the winter I borrowed a friend’s bike to fill the space between snowboarding season and for exploring.”

Like any true biker, Janko fell in love with his second-hand bikes. As he shares his story, he recalls the smallest details of those early rides and the all-too-common experience of how bike theft affected his early days, stalling his riding for several years. 

Flash forward

Capturing the atmospheric trails of the North Shore in the context of self-portrait photography has led to an obsession. In just over three years, Janko rode 570 days – most with the goal of photography. It’s remarkable given that a crash last summer required surgery and cut his season short.

A single image can take hours.

“You can return to the same sport over and over – there is no limit because the weather conditions and light may never happen again,” he said. “Next time it will be a different creative opportunity – unlimited possibilities.”

The process is exact – syncing impressive athletic feats with artistic precision. Janko must set up his equipment, assess the ride for safety, hike the bike up, find a comfortable – and safe – position for his remote and then ride the line while clicking the remote at the perfect time. There are opportunities for failure in every step. The light might simply change. 

“It makes me stop and look around at the trails – to slow down and see possibilities,” he said. “It’s important that I make a photo that matches my vision. I will come back again and again – hundreds of tries until I am satisfied. Then I think I have a good photo from the camera screen and I look on the big screen [his computer] and I am not satisfied. I will go back. I am willing to put in all day for a photo.”

Other times, he must move quickly knowing there is a moment or two of special light to capture sun stars through the trees. A true adoptee of his new home Janko, prefers to ride and photograph in grey skies and in the rain – enduring the risk of the remote on wet handlebars for the ability to freeze rain with a flash. 

You may have encountered him at Mt. Fromme selling his work to fellow riders. The drive for perfection has led to an impressive catalogue of images that led him to publish his first calendar for 2025 which he sold at End of the Line and Lynn Valley Bikes and biker to biker to overcome the Canada Post strike. His work can be seen on a large scale in the windows of North Shore Bike Shop. Janko also offers a variety of photoshoot services including capturing local riders and visitors in their mountain bike photos. His work will be on display and for sale on his website.  

“With video becoming increasingly popular, I still believe in the magic of photography to capture a single perfect moment.”

All images are courtesy of Lukas Janko.

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

February 4, 2025 in Artistic Endeavours, Blog, Eco-Awareness & The Great Outdoors Comments (0)

Concerns over turf territory

In the years ahead, Kilmer Park will be getting a facelift. The gravel southern section will be replaced with all-weather turf. The long-term plan has Lynn Valley Little League excited about the opportunities for its young players but it is raising concern that a soccer-focused field is taking shape. (UPDATE: A council meeting on Jan. 27 moved the project off the five-year capital plan, and as such the DNV did not respond to questions.)

Goodbye gravel

The District of North Vancouver has been consulting with user groups over its plans to upgrade the fields at local parks. At the start of the dialogue, Lynn Valley Little League was excited to hear the plan to replace the gravel portion of Kilmer Park with artificial turf. However, in recent months the conversation has quieted. 

“Communication was good up to a point until we received a draft of the design that seemed a bit more soccer-oriented,” said Eric Benson, president of Lynn Valley Little League. ”Initially, it was described as a multisport upgrade. We recognize the need for more facilities for young people to play sports on the North Shore and we are excited to have the gravel upgraded but not at the expense of our baseball community.”

The league is concerned that without lines and field markings on the turf, it will be harder for its young six- and seven-year-old players, who use that portion of the park, to learn the game. The typical hand-lining used on grass and gravel won’t be an option on the turf. 

“We have tee ballers and single A up on the gravel, we have double and triple A up on the grass. That is six fields going at the same time – 12 sets of families,” said Brett Halicki, coordinator for the majors’ division.

At this juncture of the project, the league understands the fields will remain baseball fields for April to August but feels that investments in soccer-centred field design is a concerning precedent leaving out other sports from a ‘multisport’ design. 

“It’s an envious spot on the North Shore, we are lucky to have such a great facility,” said Benson. “When there was a proposal to make it turf and multisport we were excited. Soccer isn’t the primary sport there for much of the year.”

As a large infrastructure project for the district, the league is advocating for safety, long-term use and access for multiple user groups.  

“When we asked if there would be backstops and dugouts kitty-corner to the existing ones, it was met with a no,” said Benson. “If we are investing this much in a multisport facility it would be nice to include baseball in that because it’s important for young kids to have a safe place to sit and be coached away from the crowd and protected from gameplay.”

Halicki said they are excellent – local – examples of turf fields designed for use by both soccer and baseball, like the facilities at UBC. DNV staff responded that such configurations would be confusing for soccer players. 

“After seeing the initial drawings, we discussed it as a board. Bolder lines and maybe a lighter shade for the in-field,” said Benson. “It, apparently, was discussed on their end but brought back that it would be too confusing for soccer, but how won’t it be confusing for baseball if it’s not incorporated at all?” 

It’s an argument Halicki thinks is illogical. Using the example of an indoor gymnasium with lines and coloured zones for five or more sports being used by athletes of all ages.  

“We want to make sure we aren’t forgotten,” he said.”We don’t understand the argument that it’s confusing for the athletes. It doesn’t hold water in the context of a gymnasium. I don’t understand why the District wouldn’t want to support multiple sports – whether it’s baseball, field hockey or soccer. UBC has just done a soccer and baseball hybrid and I don’t think they should be concerned about a brown spot showing where the plate is and where the mound is.” 

Community centred

Kilmer Park offers a unique sporting opportunity in the Lower Mainland. The large space allows for all ages (four to 12-year-olds) of the league to cheer each other on and mentor players. 

Brett Halicki, back row, second from left.

“It’s used extensively, Monday through Sunday with hundreds of kids playing,” said Benson.”Our concession is busy with parents, grandparents and passersby who stop and enjoy immersing themselves in a bit of baseball culture.” 

“Kilmer Park is a special place,” added Halicki. “There are not many places where we can have a whole league together. Our smallest kids can watch the 10-year-olds play and they can see their older brothers or sisters go at it. It’s such a great atmosphere.”

The league launched a petition to engage the public and raise the profile of the baseball community. 

“We are hoping to create awareness and bring some insight to the decision makers that might not know how important baseball is to the Lynn Valley community,” said Benson.” We are aware of the need for all-weather fields for multisport use but don’t want it lost that baseball uses these fields from April to August. We are a strong baseball community and we have been for a long time.”

The public can see and sign the petition here or contact the DNV to voice support for baseball at Kilmer Park.

Looking for more?

There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

February 4, 2025 in Blog, Development and Town Planning, Neighbourhood News, Uncategorized Comments (0)

Insight from Argyle into Alpha

With technology and life evolving at a seemingly ever-faster pace, language is changing more rapidly than ever. Argyle staff member Andy Thompson has recently released a book giving insight into the vernacular of younger generations. Generation Alpha Dictionary: A Guide to the Language of Tomorrow offers clarity on new terms and an opportunity for generations to come together. 

Times are a-changing

For more than 20 years Andy Thompson has been working with Lower Mainland youth in group homes and schools. It has given him a first-hand look at generations of children and teens. As an actor and playwright, Thompson is well-versed in the creativity of language and how it can be used to unite a group of people. Slang is one way generations pull together. 

“It can be like a secret code,” he said.”It can be frustrating for parents who don’t understand what their kids are saying but it is also an opportunity for new forms of dialogue.”

Thompson’s day-to-day work with young people made him take notice of a particular shift in the youngest of teens – Generational Alpha, which is typically defined as children born 2010-2024). 

“Memes spread around the world in a heartbeat and suddenly you have language that used to take years or generations to become universally new or novel, and it’s now happening so fast because of modern technology,” said Thompson. “This generation is influenced by technology, the internet and social media unlike any before and in a much more profound way than Gen Z was influenced by these technologies.”

When the ‘teacher’ becomes the ‘student’

Youth have always had slang and frequently a few select words make it into common usage. But Thompson thinks Gen Alpha and its influence feel different.  

“One of the disconnects that I have learned is that Gen Alpha kids love that older people don’t know this language,” he said. “It’s proprietary to them.

“I started hearing these terms and I was instantly annoyed because kids were laughing at me and I didn’t know what they were saying. I thought it was a secret code amongst a small group of friends so I didn’t give it much thought.”

He began to notice that separate and distinct groups of kids were using common terms and then hearing the occasional word pop up online. 

“There was a terming point in September – and I remember it – I was at Argyle in the Choices room and I decided I was going to be more open-minded. I was going to try to understand it. I opened my mind and I thought I wanted to learn.”

Harnessing the collective energy of all the teens around him Thompson began the task of recording and defining the terms heard to better understand and connect with the kids he works with. 

“I have had kids scold me for using these terms because I am too old – it’s like the reverse thought police – with children policing these older people that shouldn’t be saying it.”

 More common were students eager to add to the list. 

“Kids were eager to teach me about this strange vernacular and I started writing it down for myself,” said Thompson/ “The more kids who found I was doing this, then others would come and tell me.”

Open dialogue

Thompson as a professional, and as a parent himself, knows the challenges of parents and teens communicating. As a support worker for kids who have a variety of challenges, he is looking for ways to bridge the divide and make meaningful connections. Initially, he thought the list might be a fun staff guide to his Argyle colleagues – partially amusing and partially useful as more Gen Alphas enter the halls.

”The list was growing and growing and my wife said ‘I think you might have something here that is more than a joke gift. It’s worth publishing.’”

Thompson embraced the idea and got to work on what is now  Generation Alpha Dictionary: A Guide to the Language of Tomorrow. A collection of over 200 terms and phrases. 

“I included a workbook because I think a lot of the words have come from kids creatively playing with language. Like turning verbs into adjectives,” he said. “I want to encourage kids and parents to play around with a language and perhaps come up with their own.”

It has been just a couple of months since publication and Thompson is proud of the feedback he is getting. From educators using as a tool in their classrooms to engage kids who are disengaged to parents who feel disconnected.  

“I have had multiple stories from parents who were struggling to talk to their kids, who now can – that was my hope for the book.”

Generation Alpha Dictionary is available online. 

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There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.

February 3, 2025 in Blog, Notable Neighbours, School News Comments (0)

Lynn Valley athlete and veteran taking on Invictus Games

A pair of skis and a prince are empowering Lynn Valley’s Assunta Aquino to fight PTSD and take aim at the podium of this month’s Invictus Games.

Proudly wearing the maple leaf

Courtesy of Solider On.

The world will be watching Vancouver this month when more than 550 athletes from 25 nations come to participate in the 11 sports that make up the Invictus Games. The international competition – founded by a team featuring Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex – is for athletes who are sick or injured military service personnel or veterans. For Aquino, donning her Team Canada kit is a powerful step forward in her recovery and an opportunity to proudly represent Canada again.

“I am so excited,” said Aquino between training sessions at Whistler. “I feel like I am starting life again. I have goals – so many things I want to do. I am a better mom being pulled out of my head to the present.”

Selected from hundreds of applicants, Aquino got the call telling her she was on Team Canada in the fall of 2023 – one of two from the Lower Mainland and a handful from BC. It will be a completely different experience than the first time she donned the maple leaf: as a member of Canada’s military for more than 24 years.

Impacts of service

Aquino’s service began after hearing from a high school classmate about their career in the military.

Courtesy of Solider On.

“They deployed to Bosnia during the active war in Croatia and Bosnia Herzegovina, returned and told me all about it. I thought this was my calling,” she said. “My role was as a combat engineer as a non-commissioned officer, those with an engineering degree are officers and I did the combat side. I learned mine warfare, mine awareness [reducing the dangerous impacts of mines and explosives], bridging to get troops in or out of zones and demolition, which is used on both of those things – destroying mines or bridges.”

With nine years of deployment to war zones, Aquino’s service – particularly an incident in 2005 where colleagues were lost demining – injured her mental health. While it was impactful at the time, the effects and realization it resulted in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) came later.

“The next opportunity for deployment was Afghanistan. My husband and I had a conversation that if we want to start a family I can’t deploy. I knew I couldn’t go into another warzone,” said Aquino. 

What followed was the balance of working within the military and being a mom of three while dealing with the lasting injuries of PTSD. 

“I am very lucky it’s not physical but emotional and mental,” she said. “But I have said things I can’t take back, woke up in a bad mood or didn’t show up on time or manage what I was needing to for my kids. If you were to ask them they would gush with love but they would also talk about the other side with PTSD. I am aware of what was happening on the outside because of what was happening in my head.”

Those effects were severe. 

“I was retired before I was ready in 2015. Those intervening years [before the Invictus Games] were not filled with a lot. Being a mom is incredible but there is a huge part of you that feels like you are no longer contributing. People try to tell you otherwise but I was just marking time.”

Ultimately, Aquino sought more support with inpatient care through the Ravensview Guardians Program for first responders and military personnel. 

“It’s a challenge. I am learning to live with it. It’s taken a lot of acceptance and that has happened just recently.”

Game on

Today, Aquino is effervescent on the eve of the Invictus Games, taking place in Whistler and Vancouver  Feb. 8-16. She is participating in downhill skiing, swimming and seated volleyball. 

Courtesy of Assunta Aquino

“I didn’t know [the games] existed until my husband told me about it 18 months ago,” she said. “I withdrew so fully from the military I didn’t pay attention. I didn’t watch the news because it was too scary. My world got very, very small. You’re isolated, not just cut off from the world in your home, you are isolated inside yourself.” 

After a family discussion on whether she was mentally strong enough to share her story and whether her kids were comfortable with it being public, she began the application process. 

“I don’t know if you are ever ready. I have struggled. Have I overshared? How will it translate down to my sport? Will I be able to keep my head in the game?  It’s a lot to be ready to unpack that journey – and to do it publicly in front of your own children,” she said. 

There were also the practical aspects. Invictus was offering winter sports for the first time, but athletes do not participate just within their comfort zone. Each athlete also selects new sports to set new goals, stretch themselves and find new teammates to enable them to achieve success and reframe their self-image.

“I got this opportunity and it shifted my thinking. I can do so much more in life – and I will,” Aquino said. “I would never have applied if there weren’t winter sports because skiing is my passion. Then I got to the third page of the application and it asked what are my other sports.

Courtesy of Solider On.

“I feel like I am starting life again. There are things I want to do. For my kids, they see a renewed energy in their mom. Even though I am away training, I am much more present.”

Aquino has also had a unique experience of being one of two athletes from the Lower Mainland which has given her access to the inner organization of the games itself. 

“I am blown away by the planning and the volunteers putting in hours after hours to make sure every single veteran has been considered and planning what each needs to be successful at these sports.”

It includes making sure venues, transportation and hotels are accessible to all. Another unique aspect is that the Invictus Games recognize that the traumatic impacts of service extend beyond the veteran to families. Each athlete also gets to bring two family members, giving athletes additional support and opportunities for families to be a part of this new positive experience. With her family here in Lynn Valley, Aquino is bringing two friends she met while at Ravensview for trauma care as her supporters. 

 “One of the coolest things about Canada being the host nation is that Canada gets to augment teams [add team members] that can not fill an event team on their own. So if a team needs six people Canada fills in those spots so that other athletes can participate and they are called Unconquered. That is exactly what Invictus is about – being unconquered.”

Coming from around the world there will be athletes participating in winter sports who have never seen snow. The games’ foundation also ensures that the athletes get future support with continued athletic opportunities and events like group treks in places like the Himalayas.  

There are still tickets available to watch individual sports such as wheelchair rugby and basketball, as well as the opening – featuring Katy Perry, Noah Khan, Nelly Furtado and athletes – and closing ceremonies. Plus all Whistler events (skeleton, downhill skiing and snowboarding, biathlon and nordic skiing) are free to attend. 

For Aquino, it’s a chance to make her country, her community, her family and herself proud of this battle she is fighting – and winning – for herself.  

“I noticed there was a full moon last night at Whistler and it dawned on me that the next time there is a full moon it will be during the games – on the days of my alpine events. When every country – every family member, every friend will be standing under that full moon together – the snow moon. Incredible.” 

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January 28, 2025 in Blog, Notable Neighbours Comments (0)

Acts Of Kindness abound

Celebrating Lynn Valley is just about our favourite thing to do. Doing it with good people is even better. Our Acts Of Kindness contest with our partner Romer’s Kitchen Lynn Valley makes it even better. We feel pretty lucky each day we open up a nomination for our AOK award. 

Stepping up in the rain

We have had a number of nominations for our AOK award from neighbours stepping up during the October atmospheric river. For our first 2025 award, we want to recognize Poya Afrooz. Afooz answered an appeal for help from her nominator Martha Molls for help stem flood waters. Using her family connections to a home-building business she helped locate and loan pumps – helping families knee-deep in water.

We are glad you are a part of our community.

Good deeds, good eats

That is the Lynn Valley we see too. The future is bright with small acts of daily kindness that make this community warm and a place where people still say hello to strangers walking down the street. Thinking about our own experiences and the couple of LVL team members who live close to Argyle: we have had students offer to carry in groceries, hold the hands of a busy toddler while their baby sibling is put into their car seat, show up to clear flood debris, rake leaves and shovel snow. We know negative news is noisy but there is plenty of good to get loud about.  

Romer’s Fresh Kitchen and Bar and LynnValleyLife want to acknowledge more AOK Good Deeds with Good Eats in the months to come. Nominate anyone who lives or works in Lynn Valley here. 

It’s fitting that Bragg, our last Good Neighbour is our first nominator for AOK, wants to share how Rosemary Tapp makes her days better. 

“I stopped to talk to Rosemary Tapp last year for the first time while out for a walk and she was raking leaves in her garden. The next day, and the Christmas season fast approaching, she appeared with the most beautiful wreath that she had made for my front door. From that time on she has brought me beautiful bouquets of flowers from her exquisite garden, to lift my spirits as she knows my love of flowers. She has done many acts of kindness since I stopped by that day last year. Such a kind sweet caring person, she has brightened many a day for me during this very difficult year. She just recently turned up with a care package of comfort food and it just happened to be at a time when I needed a hug.

It is not just me that she does these good things for, she is just one of those generous souls that just makes this a better place to be.” 

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January 7, 2025 in Blog, Contests Comments (0)

The year in review

It has been a banner year for Lynn Valley. We were proud to share so many stories from athletes to artists from fundraisers to festivals. We have put together a list of our favourite and most popular posts.

Telling our stories

Our favourite stories of the year line up very close to the most-read stories on LynnValleyLife.com. Leading the pack was sharing the 2025 goals of Argyle Secondary’s cheer team goal of going to the world championship in Florida. The well-spoken athletes share their passion and determination to excel in a sport with a relatively low profile in Canada. Spoiler alert: the Argyle team has podiumed in their last three visits to the world championships.

Another leading story was also about Argyle students taking on international competition. Baseball players Harry Cheyne and Cayden Allen were both invited to join Team Great Britain’s U18 baseball team. They made it to the European Baseball Championships.   

Making a mark on the world stage this past year was Lynn Valley’s Heather McDonald. Balancing a career and being a mom didn’t stop McDonald from crushing the world record for most spin classes in a year. More than just a feat of physical strength, it was a chance to champion mental wellness and the importance of caring for yourself inside and out. Spoiler alert: she not only broke the record but did it ahead of her schedule.

Another notable interview last year that proved popular was with DNV fire chief and former North Shore Rescue Team Lead Mike Danks (he remains an active member) and newly transplanted Lynn Valley filmmaker Grant Baldwin. Baldwin and his team at Silvapark Films debuted their second season of Search and Rescue North Shore featuring the local volunteer team at NSR. This global sensation balances the beauty of our outdoors, the efforts of the volunteers and the accessible dose of outdoor education. The second season debuted in May and can be streamed online at the Knowledge Network.

Screen time

There are a few clear trends highlighting what Lynn Valleyites are interested in when it comes to social posts: weather and traffic. We have a fairly consistent readership and engagement with our posts but we see significant spikes when sharing traffic or storm information. 

Our biggest post of the entire year was sharing the Daily Hive article doing a deep dive into North Vancouver’s transit future. Looking at the ins and outs of bus rapid transit and Skytrain it got the North Shore buzzing and had local politicians chime in to respond. The response to the active transportation report council meeting also proved spicy. 

Other popular posts were news posts about storm impacts, such as the rain and flooding in October and wind storms in November.

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January 7, 2025 in Blog, Neighbourhood News Comments (0)

Stable assessments for 2025

New property assessments are showing little change for homes in the District of North Vancouver.

A static North Shore

There was a two per cent increase in single-family home assessments in the DNV resulting in a median value of about $2,124,000. This is a jump when comparing assessments to those in the City of North Vancouver which only saw an increase of only 0.1 percent – about $2000 bringing the median values up to $1,990,000.

North Shore strata properties saw similar increases. DNV stratas rose an average of one percent while the City’s stratas rose an inconsequential 0.3 percent. The median price in the DNV was $940,000 and $839,000 in the City. 

BC Assessment determines property values based on the value of market sales as of July 1st of the preceding year. The assessments are used by the DNV to allot each parcel’s tax responsibilities. BC Assessment provides accurate property and value information to: tax authorities, property owners, municipal, provincial and federal government agencies, realtors, appraisers, lawyers, bankers, title search companies, and other private and public agencies.

Why it matters

Your assessment is not the market value of your home. Land and house values can shift for various reasons, often influenced by changes in zoning, environmental factors, market demand, and neighbourhood dynamics. It may have increased or decreased since July 1st. North Vancouver had a flurry of activity in the latter half of the year when considered with lower interest rates, you should speak to Jim, Kelly, Mel at 778-724-0112 or another real estate professional. You may want to consider the accuracy of your assessment if you are planning to sell your home or if your increase was significantly higher than the average or think it’s too high and will result in an unfair tax burden. Appeals can be made until January 31.  

It can be an intimidating task to appeal your assessment and LynnValleLife can help support your effort. You will need to gather comparable sales data. There is also a possibility – albeit rare – that your assessment appeal results in a higher assessment.

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January 7, 2025 in Blog, Real Estate News Comments (0)