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Nominate Lynn Valley’s Good Neighbour for 2013!

We’ve been looking forward to this all year! It’s finally time to put the call-out for nominations for this year’s Good Neighbour Award.

We loved reading the stories you sent in last year. We heard about animal lovers and faithful housesitters; charity organizers, handyman husbands, and more. The winner, chosen from amongst all these goodhearted folk by random draw, was Rosemary Postlethwaite of Lynn Valley United Church, who was given her Good Neighbour Award at the finale of the Lynn Valley Christmas in LV Village.

So please send us your story about the person in our community who has made our world a better place, in ways large or small. Over the upcoming season of peace and goodwill, we will share our favourites on the website and draw from amongst them the recipient of the 2013 Good Neighbour Award.

This year’s winner will receive a number of local treats, including a gift certificate to the Black Bear Neighbourhood Pub, four tickets to Friday Night Live, a basket of Christmas CDs from Rave-On Studio, yoga passes to Joyful Chakra Yoga, and even a personalized tour of the North Van RCMP station with our favourite press officer, Cpl. Richard De Jong! And the person who nominates the winner will get a handful of Christmas CDs, too!

Please send your story (just a paragraph or two will do, doesn’t have to be fancy) to [email protected] as soon as you can so we can start sharing them. All entries are due by Wednesday, December 18. Please include your name and contact information, as well as that of the person you are nominating. To help us spread the word, please download this poster to stick up at your local school or shop – we’d love to read as many heartwarming stories as possible!

The announcement will be made, and the prize awarded, at this year’s finale of a Lynn Valley Christmas on Sunday, December 22. Our 2012 winner, Rosemary, is shown below with LynnValleyLife sponsor Jim Lanctôt, his daughter Katie, and the Rev. Blair Odney of Lynn Valley United Church. Who will win this year’s award, we wonder…?

photo courtesy Linda Mackie

November 16, 2013 in Blog, Community Events, Contests, Current News, Notable Neighbours

Blow your own horn: Join the LV Black Bear Band!

It all started as a group of adults who dusted off their high school band instruments and used their Monday evening practices to escape the world of mortgages, day jobs and fractious toddlers.

Thus the Lynn Valley Black Bear Band was born, and quickly grew to an ever-more enthusiastic group of 40 to 50 musicians of all backgrounds and skill levels. The first years were spent under the direction of longtime Argyle music teacher, Ken Osterreicher, and many of the players were recent or long-ago alumni of our neighbourhood secondary school.

Today, nearly 10 years on, the Black Bear Band is conducted by Rob McLeod, Sutherland high school’s VP, and the musicians are a varied bunch. The band has never required auditions, and potential players are invited to come out for a few practices to suss out for themselves whether they are a good fit.

“We have a real range of abilities in the band, from people who haven’t played for years to people who are semi-pro,” says president Stacey Seddon. “It works well – people can cover for each other when necessary, and everyone finds their skills getting better over time. Put us all together and we sound really good!”

The band has developed a faithful following through its regular appearances at Lynn Valley Day, Remembrance Day and other community events. It also has a popular Winter Concert at Kay Meek Centre, a by-donation event that includes seasonal and not-so-seasonal tunes, and apres-show goodies as well. This year’s Winter Concert takes place Monday, Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Monday evening practices are followed up by an optional get-together at the Black Bear pub, which feeds its namesake community band complimentary wings and pop. It’s an evening in the week that has become a musical and social highlight for many of the members, but don’t take our word for it; LynnValleyLife was sent the following testimonials from BBB longtimers:

  • “My life has been made better by being part of the BBB. The music,  friendships and essence of community shared within our ensemble is uplifting. I feel privileged to work with a fabulous musical director, to create music with enthusiastic musical colleagues, and to have made some amazing friends by being part of the BBB. No matter what topsy-turvy turns my life takes, I always know Monday night band rehearsal will lift my spirits – both through music, and through the friendships and community which occur there.”  –    Andrea, trumpet

  • “At the end of a long day there is nothing better than coming to a place where you can make music among friends.  I find it nearly impossible to be hung up on the stresses of the day and play music at the same time, being a part of the BBB has given me a place where I can leave my worries at the door and be a part of something truly fantastic.  We have a great group of people in the BBB it is an environment where everyone supports and inspires the people around them, a place where each individual contributes and has value.”   –   Stacey, bass clarinet

  • “I had stopped playing a few years after high school and in the 10 years that went by before joining the BBB, I had forgotten how much I enjoyed the feeling of making music. Since joining the BBB, I have regained that joy and Monday nights are what I look forward to the most. Being part of an ensemble, performing for an audience and playing a variety of musical styles keeps me engaged and even causes me to do something I rarely did in school – practice! –   Jeff, trombone

The band is actively recruiting new members, so don’t be shy! Contact [email protected], or just show up for a Monday practice in the Argyle band room at 7:30 p.m. (aim for 7:15 to get set up). More info is available on the band website. Make 2014 the year you put some more music in your life!

 

November 13, 2013 in Blog, Current News, Getting Involved

Catch FNL fever before fall season wraps up!

Growing audiences have been delighted with this season’s line-up of guest performers at the weekly musical improv night held at Lynn Valley United Church.

Friday Night Live has welcomed wellknown Vancouver performers, such as Bard on the Beach’s Andrew Wheeler and Phantom of the Opera’s Jeff Hyslop, along with upcoming talent that’s included magicians, singers, composers and more.

The evening is always a remarkable blend of hilarity and talent; the show is anchored each night by Ad Libretto, improv performers who blend brilliant off-the-cuff acting with Matt Grinke’s equally brilliant off-the-cuff piano accompaniment, with amazing results.

You can enjoy a few snacks in the lobby before the 7:30 start time, buy a glass of wine to take into the show with you, and relax and enjoy the performance. Given our dark, fall-weathery evenings, staying close to home for an evening’s entertainment is even more appreciated!

The fall season will wrap up with a final performance on December 6, so be sure to catch an evening or two or three before then. Click here for the guest line-up; this Friday (the 15th) come out and see composer and performer Simon Kendall, formerly of Doug and the Slugs. (Click here to listen to some gorgeous clips from Simon’s new solo piano CD and his other releases.)

A special ‘gallery night’ is being held the following Friday, November 22, when the work of Millenium Ink tattoo artists will be featured. Doors open at 6:30 so you have the chance to see a range of work on a “human gallery” and enjoy light refreshments; the theme of tattoos as means of expressing human rights and other meaningful causes will be discussed during the show.

New this season is support from community sponsors who believe in having quality, family-friendly entertainment in our neighbourhood. Thanks to title sponsors Royal Bank and Grossman and Stanley, business lawyers, and to Zazou Salon and Spa, Save-on-Foods, Westlynn Meats and Seafoods, Len Grinke Photography, Waves Coffee House (for their complimentary beverages!) and of course, to Lynn Valley United Church, whose brainchild this was.

Tickets are $10 at the door. Books of tickets are available for $100, which includes 10 tickets and two complementary tickets (what a great Christmas gift!)  Family rate is $25, and people under 12 are free.  Get tickets in advance if you’d like, by calling 604 987-2114 or emailing [email protected].

 


November 13, 2013 in Blog, Community Events, Current News

North Pole coming to Lynn Valley!

Well, it seems that all the debate regarding high-rises, mall redevelopment and the like was really just a smokescreen. While petitions circulated and activists rallied, a secret development was taking place in the emptied Zellers building,  unbeknownst to all.

But we don’t expect a huge neighbourhood outcry. After all, how often does Santa set up shop right under one’s nose?

LynnValleyLife was  allowed behind the blue curtain this week, into the Zellers space that is in the process of being transformed into the North Pole by North Pole BC. Company owner Martin Miller showed us around the winterland village that will soon be bustling with traditional Christmas characters.

There will still be a free mall Santa, located in a ‘woodland’ just inside the old Zellers entrance. Those who wish to book tickets to the North Pole ($13.95 and up) step into a world of twinkling lights and fun activities.

Kids can decorate gingerbread cookies in the elves’ kitchen, read stories with Mrs. Claus, help the elves make toys in their workshop, visit with a snow princess, make their own gift wrap, write letters to Santa, and more.

Those who opt for a personalized visit with Santa get some scheduled one-on-one time with a Santa who knows just the right thing to say to each child (thanks to getting some info in advance from Mom and Dad), and go home with a small gift.

This is the fifth year that the company has offered the North Pole tours; last year it was at Maplewood Farm. Martin says he is delighted to bring the village indoors, where the weather can’t play havoc with the experience. He expects that once again the North Pole will attract visitors from all over the Lower Mainland and beyond.

Tours begin with the arrival of Santa to Lynn Valley Centre on November 23 (there will be free entertainment from 10:55 a.m. to 12:15 in the mall food court). North Pole excursions will primarily take place on weekends, but become more regular in the weeks leading up to Christmas. To assure availability, families should pre-book in advance, but impromptu visitors are welcome to inquire at the door to see if space is available. Group visits are common and special pricing starts at 10 people.

 

 

November 12, 2013 in Blog, Current News, Merchant Mentions

Green Coast Rubbish cleans up at awards night

Many congratulations to Lynn Valley’s Green Coast Rubbish, a local company that doesn’t just haul your ‘junk’ away … it finds good homes and uses for as much of it as possible. That dedication to waste reduction was recently recognized when the company was given the 2013 Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award in the Green Business category. Green Coast Rubbish joins other well-known  previous award recipients that include the David Suzuki Foundation.

It isn’t the first honour the company has received, as you’ll see if you read their LynnValleyLife Merchant Profile. But it’s great to hear they certainly aren’t slowing down any in their efforts to find ever more ways to divert waste from the landfill and incinerator.

These are some of the impressive stats from Green Coast Rubbish’s recent blog entry: “Whenever possible, we divert and donate materials to local non-profit organizations that can put them to good use (over 9 tonnes of goods & material in total, this past year alone). Since 2010, we’ve kept over 522 tons of waste materials away from our local landfills by recycling or diverting them (a 76% diversion rate), with our ultimate goal being a 100% diversion by 2020. And while our business is built upon helping clients effectively manage their waste, we also believe in consciously working toward bettering our own environmental footprint on a daily basis. In 2012, we managed to reduce our personal greenhouse gas emissions by 7.73%.”

Many congratulations again GCR, and remember, Lynn Valleyites, this company is happy to come to your home or business, so if you’re wanting a simple way to keep your own waste disposal as green as possible, keep Green Coast Rubbish in mind!

 

November 8, 2013 in Blog, Current News, Eco-Awareness & The Great Outdoors, Merchant Mentions

LV’s building supply landmark closing its doors

Whether you call it the “Irly Building Centre” or still refer to it by its earlier moniker, “Woodstop Building Supplies,” you’ll be sorry to hear this Lynn Valley landmark is shutting down operations.

Trevor Stephenson, the co-owner who founded the store in 1978, told LynnValleyLife that he first went into business in the adjacent lumberyard, which had been abandoned by previous operators. Trevor believes it had been run as a lumberyard since the 1950s; he says a six (not seven!)-digit telephone number is still written on the inside of the warehouse door.

Five years later, Trevor built the building supply store and was joined by recent Argyle Secondary grad John Horsnel, who later became a co-owner of the business.

Over the years, Trevor says they have served many longtime customers; about 80 per cent have been contractors and 20 per cent homeowners. He’s been in business so long, he says, that he’s seen some contractors through their entire career. As for himself, he’s still getting used to the idea of semi-retirement.

“I’m still in denial to some extent,” he says. But he’s warming up to the thought. “The beauty of retirement is the ability to be on your own schedule, not someone else’s. I’m looking forward to that flexibility.” That’s no wonder, considering that Trevor has been up at 5 a.m. for the past 35 or so years, in order to commute from his Port Coquitlam home to be at work by 6:30.

But it won’t be all play, no work. Trevor and John also own North Shore Door, which sells doors, windows, moldings and door hardware from its shop at 103 – 2433 Dollarton. John has been working full-time at that location for the past year, and Trevor intends to lend a hand to help the shop build its brand.

The owners have sold the property to a residential developer, a land use that Trevor feels is a better fit for that corner of Lynn Valley. They plan to close the lumber yard on October 31 (all materials are currently being sold at cost) and he says that from November 1 to December 15 the contents of the building supply sale will also be sold at cost. He hopes to have the business wrapped up by December 31.

Trevor says he’ll definitely miss his customers and the relationships he’s developed through his work. “It’s not a job, it’s a lifestyle,” he notes. He asked LynnValleyLife to pass on his and John’s appreciation to all their longtime customers. “We’re awful thankful for their support over the years.”

Trevor, John and the rest of the Woodstop crew will certainly be missed by Lynn Valleyites, most of whom will never have known their neighbourhood to be without this stalwart landmark. On behalf of the community,  thanks for everything and we’ll see you at North Shore Door!

October 25, 2013 in Blog, Current News, Merchant Mentions, Notable Neighbours

Sponsor Christmas tree in LV Village!

This just in from Lynn Valley Community Association…. 

(For more information about adopting a Christmas tree, click here. As of November 6, there are only 13 left, so don’t delay!

We are once again offering
sponsored Christmas trees in 
LynnValley Village this holiday season.

We are planning a family weekend of free entertainment for the whole family on December 21 and 22.  There will also be a Lynn Valley Christmas Grande Finale with music and caroling led bythe United Church Choir and theappearance of a very special guest on the night of the 22!

All trees will be beautiful 6-foot nobles.

You will receive a tree, stand and power.We have 73 trees on a first-come,
first-served basis.
Trees will be available on November 30 at noon.

 

75% SOLD OUT!

  $200*/TREE

 

*$50 from each tree will go towards the

Lions Christmas Hamper program.

 

Call or email Dave Bruynesteyn at 604-315-3283 or [email protected] to reserve your tree.

Four levels of sponsorship are also available at

$Family, $500,$1000 and $2500

Trees have to be fully decorated by 4 pm on December 1. The mayor will light up all the trees at 5 pm.

 

Note:  All trees have to be undecorated by January 4.

 

 
October 22, 2013 in Blog, Community Events, Current News, Getting Involved

LV Legion throws down dress-up challenge!

Halloween isn’t just for kids. In fact, this party is for grown-ups only!

The Lynn Valley Legion is inviting members and non-members alike to come out and enjoy an evening of ghoulish fun on Saturday, October 26 starting at 7 p.m.

The theme is “Dress Like a Dead Celebrity,” so put your thinking caps on and get creative! Along with chances at costume prizes, you’ll also enjoy the live band Swayed, food and drink specials, and getting to know your neighbours better!

All info is on the poster below. Have fun, folks!

 

October 16, 2013 in Blog, Community Events, Current News

DNV votes for ‘Flexible Framework’ plan in town centre

Last night the District of North Vancouver Council considered a staff report that detailed financial and other impacts that would result from the adoption of a five-storey town centre height restriction versus a model that is predominantly five storeys, with eight storeys allowed in key areas and limited, case-by-case exceptions of up to 12 storeys in the Lynn Valley core.

In their submission, North Vancouver District planning staff recommended the latter option, entitled the Flexible Planning Framework option. The staff report forms part of the council meeting agenda, and can be found at Item 9.1.

As noted in today’s press release from North Vancouver District, Council agreed with staff that the Flexible Planning Framework allows for the possibility of targeted town core redevelopment that will enable implementation of  Official Community Plan objectives, such as improved transit and provision of community amenities, while it acknowledges community concerns that include issues such as extreme change and shading from buildings. For more information, please visit the North Vancouver Identity website or refer to the press release issued earlier today.

This graphic from the North Vancouver District press release shows maximum building height allowances voted for under the Flexible Planning Framework. The blue zone would allow for heights of eight to 12 storeys on a case-by-case basis.

October 8, 2013 in Blog, Current News, Development and Town Planning, Governance and Services

FNL launches new season of music and laughs

There aren’t many North Shore residents who can get up from their dinner table on a Friday night, decide against another night in front of the TV, and, just 10 minutes later, be enjoying an evening of live music and comedy.

But that’s the happy reality in Lynn Valley, where Friday Night Live (FNL) has entered its third season. Some things haven’t changed – with a $10 ($25/family) ticket price and no downtown parking costs, you still can’t beat the evening for value.

The performers, too, continue to be stellar. The cast of seasoned improv actors and musicians is headed by Alan Marriott, who launched his theatre sports career in Vancouver in 1980 before spending the next two decades training, performing and teaching in London, England.

Now he orchestrates a roster of fellow improvisers whose antics form the backbone of FNL. Joining them every week is a guest artist; the audience can expect anyone from a magician to emerging or well-known actors or musicians.

What is new this year is that more businesses are stepping up to lend a hand. Originally the brainchild of Lynn Valley United Church (LVUC), the event has turned into a partnership between various organizations who want to support close-to-home, quality entertainment.

Title sponsors this season include RBC, Grossman & Stanley, and LVUC, with support offered by others as well (including Waves, which donates complimentary coffee). The artists, too, pitch in by performing for an honorarium. Now all that’s needed is consistent audience support to keep it all coming together.

“People often assume that if it’s held in a church, it’ll be preachy or hokey,” says Shauna Grinke, a church member who used her business skills to create a marketing approach for the freshly updated FNL.

Just one visit, however, is enough to change their minds. Between the professional quality theatre sports and guests such as talented Vancouver musical performer Jeff Hyslop, word is getting out that FNL is a treat not to be missed. In 2013, it was voted one of the North Shore’s “Best-Kept Secrets” in an Outlook newspaper reader poll.

Church administrator Kelly Jenner calls it “doing church in a radically different way.” It’s about building relationships within the neighbourhood, and creating a venue where people can gather to be inspired by uplifting entertainment. Given the large audience at last week’s season opener, it seems the idea is definitely catching on.

The show starts at 7:30 p.m. at 3201 Mountain Hwy. For information about upcoming guests, visit www.fnlnorthvan.com.

October 2, 2013 in Blog, Community Events, Current News