Are You Ready?

The BC Legislature yesterday commenced an unusual summer session. There is a strong belief one of the housekeeping matters that will be dealt with in the coming days, is moving British Columbia into Phase 3.

What Will Be Included in Phase 3

In Phase 3, people can take part in smart and safe travel within B.C.

The BC Restart Plan takes a phased approach to reopening. This allows sectors and activities within the phases to open when the evidence and data tells us the time is right, and as protocols and guidance are in place for them to do so safely.

The guidelines and extra safety precautions for sectors in Phase 2 are still in place.

If transmission rates remain low, the following industries and institutions will start to open with extra safety precautions and physical distancing measures. 

Hotels, motels, RV Parks, cabins, resorts, hotels, lodges and backcountry operators.

Plus BC Parks overnight camping, motion picture and television production start up again and K-12 in person classes as well as Post secondary in person classes for 2020-2021.

....Meanwhile

This morning a major movie production crew was marshaled in the parking lot of the Crescent Beach Legion. Filming is taking place today at a home off of 22nd avenue in the Ocean Park district of South Surrey.

Is an announcement imminent today that we will be entering Phase 3 which as you can see by the above breakdown of Phase 3 includes television and movie production will begin. All the staff of the film crew at the home where the filming is taking place today all workers were wearing face masks.

June 22, 2020

June 21, 2020

Stunning Rainbow Show

Did you see the spectacular double rainbow over White Rock last evening?

Bill Hawke did....

Sherron Fairbairn saw this over the East end of town. Rather stately on Stayte Road.

...and Russell Kanhai caught this beauty from West Beach.

June 19, 2020

Performers Pull Out Of Surrey's Canada Day Celebrations

Said The Whale

A virtual Canada Day concert put on by the City of Surrey is losing a number of performers because of the city's policies on racism — or lack thereof. 

Mother Mother, The Beaches and Said The Whale posted messages on Twitter Thursday, saying they would no longer participate because there had been no response to a petition calling on the city to make a public statement committing to anti-racism.

"We hope that this will encourage the city to re-evaluate their approach and begin taking steps towards dismantling systemic racism," said Said The Whale. 

"We are proud to join those voices who have already called for Surrey's leaders to speak up," said The Beaches. 

Other artists still committed to perform at the virtual concert include 54-40, Alex Cuba, Bif Naked and Colin James.

In the 2016 census, 58 per cent of Surrey residents identified as a person of colour, but just two of eight councillors and three of 11 senior staff did. 

Last year Surrey renamed its Social Policy Advisory Committee the Social Equity and Diversity Committee, but like most Metro Vancouver municipalities, it lacks detailed equity or anti-racism policies. 

As of this morning the above performers were still listed on the city's VIRTUAL CANADA DAY website.

Peace Arch Provincial Park will be temporarily closed

This closure addresses the public safety and traffic concerns in neighbouring communities due to a significant increase in the number of park visitors.

On April 8, 2020, BC Parks closed all provincial parks in response to widespread calls for increased action to address the spread of COVID-19. The park reopened on May 14.

Since then, parking lots and local access roads have been overwhelmed with nearly twice the number of vehicles compared to peak days in the summer season, resulting in illegal parking. Attendance has doubled over the same period compared to last year, leading to an increase in pedestrians along roadways. 

be with an immediate family member for a period of at least 15 days, as long as they are asymptomatic of COVID-19 and self-isolate for 14 days on arrival.

The park will reopen when it is deemed safe to do so.

Water Restrictions In Effect

June 18, 2020

Feeling The Crunch

When the expansion list of the new businesses that would be joining the Semiahmoo Mall landscape, local got excited a fully equipped gym CRUNCH would be opening made many locals very happy.

Sadly the doors never opened and remain closed. CRUNCH is a subsidiary of STEVE NASH FITNESS which is embroiled in a litany of nasty lawsuits and bankruptcy. On March 17 STEVE NASH FITNESS announced its 24 facilities would close due to the COVID pandemic. The company on March 25 announced it was releasing its 1300 staff for "restructuring." The Georgia Straight in April announced SNFW apparently owed 35 million to 140 creditors.

On the bright side recently it was announced a new owner might soon take possession of all the locations and re-open under a new name. STEVE NASH who's name has been used to promote the business sold all his shares in 2014 and since then has been trying to have his name removed from the locations. 

City of Surrey resumes issuing permits for outdoor sport facilities

The City of Surrey will resume issuing permits for outdoor sport facility bookings effective today, June 17. Surrey’s outdoor sport facilities that are available for permitting include 15 artificial turf fields, 101 sports fields, 95 ball diamonds, 3 running tracks, 6 volleyball courts and 5 lacrosse boxes.

“The camaraderie and friendships that are intrinsic to team sports have been put on hold as we fight COVID-19,” said Mayor Doug McCallum. “However, the collective progress we have made to flatten the curve means that the City of Surrey can resume issuing permits for our outdoor sports facilities. While I am very pleased that we can take this step, it is important that all participants, sport groups and teams follow the COVID-19 safety guidelines before, during and after play.”

All local sport organizations who have COVID-19 safety plans in place that have been approved by their applicable governing body may contact the City at 604-501-5174 or BookaField@surrey.ca to obtain a permit.

Visitors and sport groups are reminded to help keep outdoor sport facilities open by staying home if sick, staying 2 metres apart from others, practicing individual skills and cleaning hands and equipment often. Small groups of residents, including adults and children, playing informally are requested to give way to organized play where the participating teams and individuals are operating with a valid permit.

The decision to reopen these services is aligned with Phase Two of the British Columbia Re-Start Plan, emphasizing outdoor recreation spaces as a safe environment, and stressing “appropriate personal hygiene practices before, during and after outdoor play

June 17, 2020 

Surrey RCMP recover items stolen from schools

Search warrants executed at three separate residences, led Surrey RCMP to the seizure of items stolen from Surrey schools during a series of break and enters.

On June 9, 2020, the Surrey RCMP Property Crime Target Team (PCTT) began an investigation into a spree of 20 break and enters which occurred at various Surrey schools, between May 1, and June 9, 2020. 

Surrey RCMP diligently pursued this case which, on June 11, 2020, culminated in search warrants at three separate locations; in the 9500-block of 126 Street, 10200-block of 146 Street, and 14100-block of 83 Avenue.

PCTT officers executed the search warrants with the assistance of Surrey RCMP’s Gang Enforcement Team (SGET) and Community Response Unit (CRU). During the searches, officers seized a quantity of computers, projectors, and electronics, some which were stolen from schools. Officers also located high-end bicycles, mail, credit cards, and over $18,000 cash.

Three men were arrested in relation to this investigation. Two of the men have been released pending further investigation, the third man, 38-year-old Thomas Bourque, was charged with break and enter, possession of stolen property. He was initially held in custody and later released on conditions.

“Our officers took it to heart when they heard schools were broken into,” says Staff Sergeant Ryan Element, acting Proactive Enforcement Officer. “Knowing the stolen property impacted teachers and students in our community our team was determined to recover the items and locate the suspects.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or, if you wish to make an anonymous report, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.

City reopens White Rock Pier on June 17, then all Waterfront parking lots

The City of White Rock is reopening the White Rock Pier the morning of June 17 after a nearly three-month closure in response to the COVID-19 crisis.

The City closed the Pier, a popular seaside attraction, in March to help flatten the curve in the growing number of COVID-19 cases. The Waterfront Promenade was closed in April and then reopened in May.

Parking reopens
In response to COVID-19, the City had also closed all Waterfront parking lots in March, gradually reopening them as businesses began offering takeout and curbside pickup and opening for walk-in customers.

All Waterfront lots will return to regular operation within a week. The West Beach Parkade remains temporarily closed. Parking information is posted at www.whiterockcity.ca/parking.

June 16, 2020

Canada-U. S. border restrictions extended another month

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says current restrictions, which were brought in to help slow the spread of COVID-19, will be extended another 30 days to July 21. The border is currently closed to all non-essential traffic.

June 15, 2020 

The Return Of The OB/Ocean Beach Hotel

The Ocean Beach Hotel has been a mainstay of the White Rock waterfront for years. With the departure last year of the JR Richards Group and the Yacht Club, owner TONY VELTRI felt it was time for him to get back into the game and breathe some life back into the waterfront.

Frank & Tony Veltri

A major renovation costing hundreds of thousands of dollars has restored the grand old dame of the waterfront back to life.

The doors of the newly remodeled restaurant will swing wide open today (Monday) at 12 noon. 

We are so excited to introduce you to our Executive Chef, Rory Bamber! Chef Rory is classically trained with French, Italian, and Mexican influences. He is Red Seal Certified with training from the top two culinary schools in Canada. Chef Rory trained alongside some of Vancouver’s most prestigious chefs, the likes of Chef Bruno Marti and Chef Thomas Haas. He has worked abroad on cruise ships, private yachts, and luxury hotels, such as the Fairmont and Pan Pacific. Chef Rory’s immense experience in the Vancouver dining scene has lead him to Executive Chef at the Ocean Beach, he brings his talents, knowledge, and a lifetime of dedication to all things culinary.

Weekend House Fire In Langley Takes Dramatic Turn

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) is investigating three deaths linked to a house fire in Langley, B.C. One death has been ruled a homicide. 

On June 13, 2020 at around 5:30 p.m., the Langley RCMP were called to the 19600-block of Wakefield Drive where they discovered a house engulfed in flames. Police found a man’s body at the back of the residence with injuries indicative of homicide. He has since been identified as a resident of the home. Emergency responders located two additional bodies inside the house and their identities are not yet confirmed. IHIT is working with the B.C. Coroners Service to determine their cause of death. 

In these early stages of the investigation, IHIT is actively working with its partners from the Langley RCMP to complete investigative steps and the Integrated Forensic Identification Services and fire investigators to find the cause of the fire and collect physical evidence.

“Although the flames have been extinguished, the property where the fire took place remains an active homicide crime scene. Neighbours in the area should expect frequent activity at the home by our investigators for the next while,” says Sergeant Frank Jang of IHIT. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at ihitinfo@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). 

Surrey Celebrates World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, we will be hosting a special forum for seniors all about scams and fraud prevention. 

Financial abuse, including scams and fraud, is an extremely common type of elder abuse, and the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a rise in reports. 

Reduce the risk of becoming a victim by attending our online webinar, presented in partnership with Seniors First BC. 

June 13, 2020

COVID Update

The province announced changes to the food and liquor service sector yesterday (FRIDAY) in response to small clusters of new COVID-19 cases in businesses.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix, in a joint statement, didn’t say how many clusters there were or the number of businesses affected, but reported 16 new cases for 2,709 overall.

The province also recorded one death, in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, following six straight days without one. The total in B.C. is up to 168.

Yesterday Henry announced a new order making it easier for restaurants and bars to do business by doing away with the one-size-fits-all, 50-per-cent capacity limit.

Those rules still cap overall numbers in bars and restaurants at 50 people, but allow more freedom for businesses to set their own capacity limits, with groups capped at six people. The social distance of 2 metres is still in place.

The requirement for businesses to operate at 50 per cent of regular capacity has been replaced with a requirement to determine how many a premises can accommodate if they are standing or sitting two metres apart;
Owners and operators are instructed to use methods to guide and assist patrons in maintaining a distance of two metres from one another;
A distance of less than two metres between the patrons seated at one table and the patrons seated at another table has been allowed if they are in the same party;
Self-service stations have been allowed if certain requirements are met;
The use of partitions meeting certain requirements as an alternative to ensuring patrons not in the same party are seated 2 metres apart (including for booths) has been allowed;
Requirements for standing or seating at counters have been issued; and
New requirements for events held on the premises have been issued

Henry and Dix sayd the best way to avoid spreading the virus is to ensure everyone has the space to stay safe.

“Food-service owners need to remember that protecting your employees and patrons requires layers of protection in the kitchen and in the dining area. Plans need to include such things as frequent handwashing, increased cleaning, using barriers in kitchens and dining areas, and giving lots of space between tables,” they say.

The City of White Rock is taking a phased-in approach to reopening outdoor facilities. On Saturday, June 13 the following will reopen:
- Taylor outdoor lacrosse box at Centennial Park
- Sport field at Centennial Park
- Sport field at Peace Arch Elementary

June 12, 2020

Covid Come Together

Thought the current pandemic has in large part put a lot of distance between us and our friends and neighbours, one neighbourhood deifies the odds. Each evening just before 7 p.m. Moms, Dads, Kids and neighbours come out into the street to show their support for our wonderful front line workers.

The evening kicks off with resident and local performer JOHN LAIRD setting up his guitar and amplifier and kicking off the nightly gatherings with a rendition of O CANADA. Last night as an extra touch JOHN launched into a guitar instrumental version of HOCKEY NIGHT IN CANADA which John considers our second national anthem.

Resident MARLET MAGNUSSON says "Even though we kind of knew our neighbours, at least to wave to, these nightly gatherings have afforded us the opportunity to get to know each others names and a little bit more about our neighbours.

How cool is that?

A Night At The Movies

We are excited to announce that we will be re-opening this Friday June 12th!!

We will be open daily with limited seating per show time to accommodate physical distancing.  While we are looking forward to seeing you all at our theaters and truly appreciate your support, we ask that you please arrive early to secure your seats.  Our staff is following all government protocols that our company has put forth for everyones safety.

While we are so happy to be re-opening, it will be an uphill journey for us to keep our doors open for you.  We are an independent locally owned and run business and cannot survive without your support.  We encourage you to please spread the word about our opening and also request your supporting our concession…and not just because we have the best popcorn out there!

 This weekend to launch the re-opening The RIALTO will be showing the timeless classic . E.T.

NOTE: The sister cinema to the Rialto, the Caprice on King George @ 24th avenue is also opening this weekend.

Thank you again so much for your patience and understanding and we are excited to see you back at the movies!!

June 10, 2020

The Washboard Union headline "Virtual Canada Day by the Bay"

The City of White Rock is excited to announce that country music favourite The Washboard Union will headline the Virtual Canada Day by the Bay celebration on July 1.
With its signature three-part harmony, The Washboard Union has become one of Canada's pre-eminent country bands, having won 28 awards, including a JUNO and Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) Awards.
The Washboard Union is also a two-time, consecutive, CCMA Group of the Year. The band’s latest album, Everbound, features the fan favourite and radio smash “County Thunder” and the summer anthem “Dock Rock."

About Canada Day by the Bay
The Virtual Canada Day by the Bay celebration takes place on July 1 between 7 and 9 p.m., kicking off with an O Canada sing-along with Mr. O Canada, local resident Mark Donnelly. Hosted by Michele Partridge of the Drama Class, the event includes an online marketplace and two hours of comedy, music, trivia and prizes.   
The City will livestream a concert, mixed with local and national talent, from Blue Frog Studios in White Rock. Along with The Washboard Union, there are performances from Ludic, a local band popular for their innovative and playful sound, and comedian John Cullen, who will showcase his unique brand of comedy seen on CBC’s The Debaters.

Meet, Eat @ The Beach

The City of White Rock is adding outdoor picnic tables in three popular public locations to help expand seating capacity for outdoor dining and public use.

City Council voted June 8 to buy picnic tables and place them in Memorial Park on the West Beach, on Marine Drive, near Ash Street, on the East Beach and in the Five Corners area.

The cedar picnic tables will cost $12,500 for 15 to 20 tables. The City is contributing $10,000 and the White Rock BIA, $2,500. The tables will be more than two metres apart with space to ensure physical distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

U.S.-Canada border crossings ease 

........but quarantine period remains

The Canada Border Services Agency prepared for th new laws to kick in this past Monday at midnight. The new guidelines apply  to foreign nationals who are immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents and who do not have COVID-19 or are showing any signs or symptoms of COVID-19, "or who do not have reason to believe they have COVID-19."

Anyone who enters the country will have to self-quarantine for 14 days and could face serious penalties for not following the rules.

The government barred entry to most non-residents back in March. Canada also has a deal with the United States until at least June 21 to temporarily close the border to non-essential travel (meaning no recreational visits) while keeping it open to commercial traffic and essential workers.

In their Monday briefing, Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said Canadians must remain vigilant, as a number of areas of the U.S. heavily connected to B.C. continue to see surges of cases.

"People who are coming to see their family, the last thing they want is to bring this virus in and to affect the people that they are closest to," said Henry.

Through this exemption, the government is defining an 'immediate family member' as someone's:

• Spouse or common-law partner.
• Dependent child.
• Parent or step-parent or the parent or step-parent of the person's spouse or common-law partner.
• Guardian or tutor.

• UPDATE:

  Canada, U.S. set to extend border closure to end-July . 

  • Canada and the United States are set to extend a ban on non-essential travel to late July as both countries seek to control the spread of the coronavirus

Thank you for your patience during the COVID-19 pandemic as City of White Rock staff operate with fewer resources. 

We’re still committed to making our City by the Sea look the best it can.

If you see areas with a few extra weeds or in need of trimming, please know we’ll get to them as soon as we can.

EMAIL - jgordon@whiterockcity.ca

June 09, 2020 

Uptown Fire

White Rock Sea Tours To The Rescue

June 06, 2020

Help ID indecent act suspect

Surrey RCMP is looking for the public’s help to identify a man who is a suspect in an indecent act that occurred in South Surrey.

On May 19, 2020 shortly after 9:00 pm, a lone male approached a group of young people while he was engaging in an indecent act, near the beach access at 13 Avenue and 131 Street. The man ran away when confronted by the group.

After other investigative avenues have been unsuccessful in identifying the suspect, a photo is being released to the public in an effort to advance the investigation. No additional similar occurrences have been reported.

The suspect is described as a South Asian or Middle Eastern man, with short dark hair, dark facial hair, in his 20’s, medium build, and wearing glasses (see attached photo).

Investigators are asking anyone who can help identify the suspect, or has any information about the incident, to contact Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or, if you wish to make an anonymous report, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca.

June 04, 3030

Man at large after removing court ordered electronic monitoring 

Surrey RCMP is informing the public that an arrest warrant has been issued for 19-year-old Dyllan Petrin, and is asking for information to assist in his arrest.

Dyllan Petrin is charged related to an ongoing Surrey RCMP Serious Crimes Unit investigation involving a kidnapping and assault which occurred in July, 2019. He was arrested on those charges in July 2019, and had been held in custody until February 2020, when he was released on strict court ordered conditions including electronic monitoring via ankle bracelet. On May 28, 2020, Dyllan Petrin removed his electronic monitoring bracelet and is currently at large.

Today, June 2, 2020, a British Columbia-wide warrant was issued for Dyllan Petrin’s arrest, new charges include breach of his court ordered conditions.

Surrey RCMP is seeking assistance from the public in locating Dyllan Petrin.

Dyllan Petrin is described as Caucasian, 5’5 tall, 126 lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes (Please see photo attached). Dyllan Petrin also has a prominent tattoo on the left side of his neck.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of this individual is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or, if you wish to make an anonymous report, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.

June 02, 2020 

Thar She Blows

Visitors and residents on the White Rock waterfront had quite a show just off the pier last night in White Rock. Social media today is full of videos and photos of a pair of grey whales who paid a visit to Semiahmoo Bay.

North Pacific

Two Pacific Ocean populations are known to exist: one of not more than 200 individuals, whose migratory route is presumed to be between the Sea of Okhotsk and southern Korea, and a larger one with a population of about 27,000 individuals in the eastern Pacific traveling between the waters off northernmost Alaska and Baja California Sur. [33] Mothers make this journey accompanied by their calves, usually hugging the shore in shallow kelp beds, and fight viciously to protect their young if they are attacked, earning gray whales the moniker, devil fish. [34]

The western population has had a very slow growth rate despite heavy conservation action over the years, likely due to their very slow reproduction rate.[35] The state of the population hit an all-time low in 2010, when no new reproductive females were recorded, resulting in a minimum of 26 reproductive females being observed since 1995.[36] Even a very small number of additional annual female deaths will cause the subpopulation to decline.[37]However, as of 2018, evidence has indicated that the western population is markedly increasing in number, especially off Sakhalin Island. Following this, the IUCN downlisted the population's conservation status from critically endangered to endangered.

Nine months later First Degree Murder Charge Laid

On September 6, 2019 at around 12:32 a.m., the Surrey RCMP received a report of a shooting at a residence in the 1600-block of 160 Street. Wayne Richard Duncan, 46-years-old, was found inside the home with gunshot wounds and later died in hospital. George Bragg, 74-years-old, was arrested at the scene in connection with the shooting. Investigators learned the two men knew each other and believe the altercation was the result of a personal dispute.

On June 1, 2020, Bragg was arrested by IHIT and charged with first degree murder in connection with Duncan’s death by the B.C. Prosecution Service.

No further details will be released as the matter is now before the court. 

Mounties remind drivers to slow down – School zones are in effect 

Please use extra caution as kids return to school after the Covid-19 break.

School zone speed limits of 30 km / hour from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. school days across the Upper Fraser Valley – school days 7:30 to 5 p.m. inside the City of Chilliwack- will be enforced by police throughout the Upper Fraser Valley.

Motorists are also cautioned to stop for school buses, displaying red flashing lights, while engaged in picking up and dropping off students on the many school bus routes across our communities.


Drivers:

· When dropping off your children in school zones, allow them time to exit the vehicle on the side closest to the sidewalk. Never allow a child to cross the street mid-block.
· If a vehicle is stopped in front of you or in the lane next to you, they may be yielding to a pedestrian, so proceed with caution and be prepared to stop.
· Watch for school buses. Vehicles approaching from both directions must stop for school buses when their lights are flashing.

Pedestrians:

· Stay alert until you have safely reached the other side of the road, cars can come from all directions.
· Stay ‘unplugged’ and leave gadgets in backpacks when walking or cycling, this will allow you to focus on the road, see, hear, and respond safely.
· Wear high visibility clothing.

First Look

The Provincial government recently released the design for the new Patullo Bridge. Total cost of the new crossing of the Fraser river will be$1.3 billion with an expected completion date of 2023.

Currently the bridge is part of the TRANBLINK system. The ownership and maintenance will revert to the Provincial Government upon completion. 

May 27

The final touches are being put on White Rock's CANADA DAY By The Bay celebration.

The event will be streamed live from the world class performance centre Blue Frog studios in White Rock.

Announcement on this year's headliner and support artists will be made soon by the city of White Rock.

The City of White Rock is proud to announce Norman McLeod, former Assistant Fire Chief with the District of Mission, has now accepted the position of White Rock Fire Rescue’s Deputy Fire Chief.

McLeod has been a member of the fire service for 32 years and has been involved in leadership roles in operations, training, emergency planning and fire prevention.

He was promoted through the ranks during his time in Mission, serving most recently as the Assistant Fire Chief of Emergency Planning and Fire Prevention. His first day with White Rock is May 25.

Edward Wolfe, Deputy Chief of White Rock Fire Rescue, will become the City’s new Fire Chief starting May 30. Wolfe replaces Fire Chief Phil Lemire who retires from White Rock on May 29.

May 26, 2020

New Parking For White Rock waterfront. The fencing has remained nearby in the event of lack of visitors and residents ability to exhibit social distancing.

If this happens the promenade will be closed again. The pier will remain closed for the time being.

Everyone knew it was coming, but were holding out faint hope the TD Concerts At The Pier might still happe3n this year. Not the case. Due to the COVID - 19 guidelines you cannot have a gathering of over 50 people until further notice.

The good news is all the great artists that were confirmed for this year have replied in the affirmative they look forward to "Rockin' The Rock" next year.

Are you reopening your business or building that was closed due to COVID-19?

Here are some water flushing recommendations for safely reopening: http://ow.ly/3rw550zPAO8

BC Transit enhancing safety measures to allow for front door loading and regular fare collection 

May 24, 2020

Border Bust

Recently U.S. Border Agents at the Pacific Highway truck crossing discovered a multi million dollar cocaine shipment.

The stash was discovered in the back of a tracker trailer truck heading for Canada.

Ajitpal Singh Sanghera was booked into the Whatcom County Jail on May 10 for the possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver it, according to jail booking data. Sanghera, held on $100,000 bail, was released by the county on Friday, May 15 when the federal prosecutor took the case, said Whatcom County prosecutor Eric Richey.  Sanghera was in contact with the other vehicle’s driver over 10 times on the day of the arrest and had tampered with the seal on the back of the trailer which suggested someone entered the trailer, according to court documents. 

Customs and Border Protection officers (CBP), who received the names of the vehicle’s company and driver, sent the truck and another truck from the same company to secondary inspection, according to records from the Whatcom County Superior Court. Sanghera was driving the second vehicle, a blue 2000 Freightliner with B.C. plates towing a trailer with Oklahoma plates. 

Five handbags containing 60 kilograms of cocaine were found when CBP inspected the trailer, records state, leading to the arrest at 8:56 p.m. During the arrest, Sanghera said he obtained the trailer in Seattle that day

May 23, 2020

WOW! Two Impaired Driving Charges In One Night

File Phot

A 37-year-old Surrey man maybe facing a long road through the court system after driving impaired twice in one night – only hours apart.

On May 18, 2020 shortly before midnight, a Surrey RCMP Frontline officer came across a collision involving an SUV and a sedan in the area of 16 Avenue and 168 Street, and stopped to investigate. The driver of the SUV was subsequently arrested for impaired driving and his vehicle was impounded. The man was released from police custody and was issued an Appearance Notice, a driving prohibition and was transported home by officers. Fortunately, no serious injuries were sustained by any of the parties involved in the collision.

Later the same night at approximately 4:15 am, Surrey RCMP received a report of an alleged impaired driver who had crashed into a fence post near 16 Avenue and King George Boulevard. The responding Frontline officers identified the driver as the same man they had arrested earlier that night for impaired driving, behind the wheel of another vehicle. He was arrested again for impaired driving, and additionally for prohibited driving.

Charges have not yet been laid for either of these incidents, but a fulsome report to the BC Public Prosecution Service is forthcoming.

“The selfish driving behaviour displayed by this individual is unacceptable and posed a serious safety risk to the public,” says Sergeant Dave Chu of the Surrey RCMP Traffic Services. “If your activity involves consuming alcohol, please plan ahead to find a safe ride and do not drive.”

If you witness a driver that you suspect is impaired please contact Surrey RCMP hands-free at 604-599-0502 or, if you wish to make an anonymous report, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca.

The City of White Rock is currently recruiting members from the community to serve on the COVID-19 Recovery Task Force.

This Task Force will to assist local businesses and social services during the COVID-19 pandemic and to prepare for the City’s reopening.

To learn more about the role and get application information, visit: http://ow.ly/V2zc50zNctv

Please note the application deadline is Friday, May 29 at 4:30 p.m.

May 22, 2020

Surrey councillor ALLISON PATTON & Surrey mayor DOUG MCCALLUM

Todays' edition of THE PR,OVINCE newspaper has a lengthy story on the rumoured professional and personal relationship between Surrey councillor ALLISON PATTON and Surrey Mayor DOUG MCCALUM

(click here to read the story)

May 21, 2020

City of Surrey to host virtual Canada Day Celebration

The City of Surrey has announced Surrey Canada Day will be hosted virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic and consideration for public health and safety. Presented by Coast Capital Savings, Virtual Surrey Canada Day will take place on July 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for the kid’s and senior’s segment, and regular programming from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., broadcasted on Facebook and YouTube Live.

Colin James

“While the safety of our community is the top priority during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it doesn’t mean we can’t find a way to celebrate this great country of ours,” said Mayor Doug McCallum. “Surrey will have its annual Canada Day celebration, but this year we will be coming together virtually. Hosted by a true Canadian icon, Hayley Wickenheiser, and featuring nationally recognized musical artists from BC such as Colin James, Bif Naked and 54-40, Virtual Surrey Canada Day will be an opportunity to safely celebrate and show our national pride on Canada’s birthday.”

Hosted by four-time Olympic gold medalist, Hayley Wickenheiser, this year’s free family-friendly virtual event will feature a series of segments including, musical entertainment, virtual tours, indigenous and cultural acts, a “Family Hour” for kids and seniors, dance lessons, a rodeo tribute, and a virtual firework finale to end the night. The livestream will feature musical performances by local Surrey artists and Canadian groups including Colin James, 54-40, Bif Naked, Toque, Said the Whale, and Madeline Merlo.

For more information, visit surrey.ca/canadaday

May 20, 2020

" We heard you White Rock…and that is the problem. "

Staff Sergent KALE PAULS

Based on feedback from the citizens of White Rock during the development of our strategic plan and at our community engagement events, we heard you loud and clear that the unnecessary noise from vehicles with modified mufflers or no mufflers is unwanted.

Section 7A.01 of the Motor Vehicle Act Regulations prohibits excessive noise from a vehicles engine, exhaust system, braking system, or from contact of the tires with the roadway. White Rock RCMP will be conducting focused enforcement via education, a violation ticket for unnecessary noise ($109), and/or an order for a vehicle inspection.

Motorcycles and cars that have been modified to increase the exhaust sound or do not have a muffler are disturbing the peace in White Rock. Those that are driving around in obvious contravention of the law will be issued a violation ticket and be given a written order to have their vehicle inspected. Others may be subject to a roadside inspection that results in education and/or an order at an inspection facility.

“Although this is the law throughout British Columbia, I want to ensure that the message for residents and visitors to White Rock is loud and clear – loud vehicles are illegal and not welcome – and we will be conducting ongoing enforcement.”

Staff Sergeant Kale Pauls

White Rock RCMP – Detachment Commander

Use It Or Lose It

This past holiday weekend there were nowhere near the number of motor vehicle accidents due to the decreased volume of travelers. Here is a snapshot of what the RCMP in the Fraser Valley were dealing with over the VIctoria Day Weekend.

BC RCMP Traffic Services has announced that traffic enforcement would be returning to pre-COVID-19 levels in light of a noticeable spike in excessive speed offences. This announcement coincided with Canada Road Safety Week and the month of May High Risk Driving Campaign.

BC RCMP Traffic Services can report that, although there were no fatal collisions on provincial highways over the long weekend, the same cannot be said for the number of excessive speed violations over the same period.

Here’s a snap shot from several individual BC RCMP Traffic Services Units from around the province that have reported their enforcement results:

· Lower Mainland IRSU reported 19 excessive speed violations among many other infractions that Unit enforced, including taking an unsafe commercial vehicle out of service.

Of particular note was one individual who was stopped for excessive speed by Lower Mainland IRSU for going 130 km/h in a residential zone, then stopped (in a different vehicle) four hours later by an officer from Fraser Valley Traffic Services (Chilliwack) for driving over 160 km/h on Highway 1. That driver has been referred to RoadSafetyBC to consider a lengthy driving prohibition.

BC RCMP Traffic Services Unit Commanders from every corner of the province are reporting higher than usual numbers of excessive speeding offences:

· BC RCMP Traffic Services Units from Sea to Sky, Port Mann and Fraser Valley Traffic Services collectively reported a total of 42 tickets/vehicle impounds for excessive speed; and
· In total, BC RCMP Traffic Services (including IRSU) across the province impounded nearly 150 vehicles for excessive speed alone over the long weekend.

Driving is a privilege and BC is a leader when it comes to holding drivers accountable for their actions. BC RCMP Traffic Services wishes to remind motorists to make good decisions and drive safely as we enter into an easing of some COVID-19 restrictions. Bend the curve, don’t break the rules!

May 19, 2020

Ocean Parker

Something to look up to! We are so happy to have our village banners back up. These brand new banners are slightly modified with no tail flap, unlike the old banners. We hope the windstorms will leave less impact on these ones! The banners are a partner project between us, the Ocean Park Community Association and The City of Surrey! We love keeping our village beautified. 

PS: The old banners will be sold off by donation when the timing is right!

May 17, 2020

He's Back!

Back when our iconic waterfront pier in White Rock was destroyed in a storm, local resident BROOKE COLBY started talk around town that he was going to get an EVIL KNIEVEL type motorcyclist to jump what was left of Canada's Longest Pier.

Then he left for Mexico,. Well he is back in THE ROCK and has a whole new plan for a jump over the length of the pier on a rocket powered motorcycle. He has created a GOFUNDME site for donations. So far he has amassed $21.00 for the jump.

The beautiful town of White Rock  has been devastated yet again, and our local businesses have suffered. We need to do a world class event that will get people back to the amazing beaches of White Rock.

My pledge to my community "I, Brooke Colby promise to attempt to jump the length of the famous White Rock pier in a rocket ship to help invigorate this amazing town!"

Many businesses are readying their establishments to welcome back customers ASAP. For restaurateurs it will be an involved process of preparing a complete plan on how seating will work with spacing clearly indicated. This plan will be kept on file with FRASER HEALTH and if there are any complaints about overcrowding there will be an approved plan in place. Restaurants are hoping to open in early June.

• Patrons must be able to maintain a distance of two metres from one another, unless they are in the same party
• There must be no more than six patrons seated at a table
• There must be no more than 50% of the usual capacity of patrons present at one time
• There must be no events held at the establishment that include more than 50 people
• If practicable, you must retain contact information for one member of every party of patrons for thirty days in the event that there is a need for contact tracing on the part of the medical health officer.
• If you are the holder of any other type of liquor primary licence and only serve snacks or appetizers but not meal services, such as a nightclub, you must close.

(click here to read the full program from FRASER HEALTH)

May 16, 2020

Local Lawyer Receives Major Nomination

Terri-Lynn Williams Davidson

May 15, 2020

Thank You Bonnie

“Let’s keep our curve flat and keep our province strong – together.”

DR. BONNY HENRY B.C'S Provincial Health Officer

Learn More:

To participate in the BC Centre for Disease Control's COVID-19 survey, Your story, our future, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/covid-19-survey 

The COVID-19 situation in British Columbia is continually evolving, and the information below is current as of 3 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, 2020.

Cases:

• Total confirmed cases in B.C.: 2,392
• New cases since May 13, 2020: 15
• Active cases: 372
• Hospitalized cases: 58
• Intensive care: 12
• COVID-19 related deaths: 135
• Recovered: 1,885
• Long-term care and assisted-living homes currently affected: 15
• Acute-care unit outbreaks: 4

Shedding Light On The Massey Tunnel Problem

Work is underway to improve brightness and visibility in the George Massey Tunnel.

The existing lights on the tunnel walls and ceiling will be converted to an LED standard to increase visibility and better illuminate the tunnel for drivers, save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Other work includes improving tunnel drainage to prevent ice build-up and water from pooling at tunnel entrances. The ventilation and electrical systems will also be upgraded. These additional safety improvements are already underway and are scheduled to be completed by spring 2021.

Black & McDonald Limited of Vancouver has been awarded a contract valued at $19 million for this work, which is part of a $40-million suite of interim safety and reliability improvements.

To minimize delays for drivers, the majority of work will be done at night. Drivers and cyclists are advised to watch for night-time lane closures and obey all traffic-control personnel, construction speed limits and signs.

For more information, visit: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/masseytunnel/

May 13, 2020

Surrey Shows Hospital Workers Love

The critical work of our healthcare workers has been heroic in our fight against COVID-19. As an extension of our gratitude to Surrey’s healthcare workers, the City of Surrey installed healthcare appreciation street banners around Surrey Memorial Hospital and Peace Arch Hospital Tuesday.

“Every night, Surrey residents and staff across our city join the 7pm cheer, as a gesture of appreciation for the sacrifices healthcare workers are making to battle COVID-19 on the frontlines,” said Mayor Doug McCallum. “With the installation of these street banners surrounding Surrey Memorial and Peace Arch Hospitals, our hope is that our nurses, doctors, first responders and paramedics are reminded every day that our community recognizes their dedication and service. Our healthcare workers are among the best in the world, working tirelessly to keep our community healthy and safe, and these banners are a small way of saying thank-you.”

The Peace Arch News Is Asking For Your Support

Black Press the owners of all the community newspapers serving the South of the Fraser region are asking for your financial aid.

Reprinted from their website;

Black Press Media multimedia journalists are among the very best in Western Canada, earning accolades for their high-quality, insightful and compelling news coverage and story-telling.

I have had the immense privilege of working with hundreds of these fine professionals over a 40-year-plus journalism career. I can say there are no other more dedicated, more focused and more community-minded individuals in the media industry.

But with great angst, I must report that the damage that COVID-19 is inflicting on businesses is dramatically thinning our ranks. The community news media industry is not in any way being spared the chilling, catastrophic drops in revenues seen across all sectors of the business world.

Andrew Holota

Western Canada Editorial Director, Black Press Media

(click here to read the full story and to donate)

May 12, 2020

White Rock Council Rewind

White Rock council last evening hosted a special meeting of council .

- The Provincial government has indicated we enter PHASE II of the COVID pandemic after the long weekend. It was noted we should not expect restaurants to have diners replacing the current take out system, the start date for this change has not been decided. The same goes for all the other services that have been told they can open in Phase II. Stay tuned.

- Waterfront Parking. The city will open one half of the parking lot at the far western end of the city's waterfront parking. The lot will be for White Rock residents only who display a valid parking sticker. On East Beach the fenced off portion of the lot at the far end of eastern point of our =city parking lots will see a small portion there opened for vehicles with a valid parking ticket available from the dispensers. NOTE: The current 30 minute parking on the North side of Marine Drive is PAY PARKING. You must have a valid paid ticket to park there as well or you will be ticketed.

- The awarding of the million dollar plus contract to shore up the slope stability along Marine Drive (Hump area) has been deferred to a later date.

- Prospect Avenue clock tower has been accepted by White Rock council. The current owner of the property (location of Islands Coffee) generously donated the clock top the city.

White Rock council meets again next Tuesday @ 7 p.m. following the Victoria Day long weekend.

Tips from the public lead to drug bust in South Surrey

Suspected drug trafficking at a South Surrey residence has been quashed thanks to tips from the public.

RCMP began an investigation after being tipped off on a possible illegal cannabis store operating at a residence in the 16400-block of 24A Avenue. The Surrey RCMP Drug Unit executed a search warrant at the residence on April 23, 2020, and located evidence of alleged drug trafficking, including indications of illegal online cannabis sales.

As a result of the investigation, officers located and seized a number of items consistent with drug trafficking including cocaine and MDMA. Police also located drug cutting agents, drug packaging and processing materials. Multiple cell phones were seized along with various packaged cannabis products, and $1700 in cash.

A man and woman were arrested and later released pending further investigation. No charges have been laid at this time.

“This is a great example of Surrey residents helping to address the illicit drug trade in the community,” says acting Proactive Enforcement Officer, Staff Sergeant Ryan Element. “Despite the legalization of cannabis, we will continue to enforce drug laws and target illegal drug activity in Surrey.”

This is a good reminder to the public that it is not only illegal to sell cannabis from an unauthorized dealer, it is also illegal to purchase cannabis from an unauthorized dealer, regardless if the purchase is in-store or online. The products sold at illegal cannabis stores are not regulated and therefore may contain harmful additives. For more information on cannabis sale and consumption laws, please visit https://cannabis.gov.bc.ca/.

SRY Rail Link Serpentine Bridge Replacement

Serpentine Bridge 64 avenue East of Johnston Road

We’ve partnered with Southern Railway of British Columbia to replace the aging railway bridge over the Serpentine River. The 40-metre long timber bridge was vulnerable to floatation in the case of a severe flood.

The new crossing will incorporate innovative flood control features. Features include concrete walls on both sides of track to protect the track from flooding and steel sheet pile connections to Surrey’s extensive flood control system. 

What will this Project Achieve?

The new bridge will:

• Keep our economy moving by ensuring safe and uninterrupted movement of goods. Approximately $190 million in freight moves across the Serpentine Railway Bridge annually. Severe floods would have shut down rail operations and the supply of goods.
• Protect the nearby community and agricultural lands from flooding. This flood protection will help agricultural production in the area, contributing to the economy and food security of the region. The new bridge will enable Surrey to realize the full benefits of the Serpentine and Nicomekl Flood Control Project, which commenced in 1997 to improve flood control of agricultural land.
• Increase worker safety during railway operation and maintenance.
• Ensures safe passage for Surrey’s Heritage Rail.

July 09, 2019

We're #2 We're #2

L-R Brooke Godin/The King of White Rock/Grady Flinn

FLINNWEST's Brooke Godin's latest Focus on White Rock video - (click here)

Thank you one and all.

Last week we were informed The White Rock Sun had been voted into the Top 5 businesses on the Semiahmoo Peninsula to receive a $15,000.00 website from FLINNWEST SOLUTIONS. Your voting pushed us right to the second place behind Laura's Coffee Corner.

The winner of the website was our favourite lady and business owner LAURA CORNALE of Laura's Coffee Corner fame located on Pacific Avenue in White Rock.

Grady Flinn owner of FLINNWEST / Laura Cornale

Yesterday afternoon after presenting LAURA with her prize cheque, the staff of FLINNWEST completely blindsided me out front of city hall. Under the guise of wanting to interview me regarding this weekend's TOUR DE WHITE ROCK I settled in for the interview on the lawn of city hall.

BAM! Videographer BROOKE GODIN had set the whole thing up for Grady Flinn to appear out of nowhere with a cheque and the news the White Rock Sun had come so close to Laura's in the voting they felt the right thing to do was to dedicate $7500.00 to the White Rock Sun for a website makeover.

I would like to personally thank each and everyone of you for voting for THE SUN.....because after all THE SUN IS ALWAYS OUT IN WHITE ROCK!!

May 15, 2019

Unhappy Anniversary

Today marks the third anniversary of the 5 Corners Fire. The blaze displaced over 100 residents of the Ocean Ridge condo development and a number of local business owners.

Let's look back. Here is the time-line story we published the day after the blaze broke out. The White Rock RCMP state the file is still active and progressing.

Follow the bouncing ball;

May 20, 2016

RCMP Investigating Arsons

There has been no official word on the cause of the blaze that destroyed the two condo complexes at 5 Corners Sunday.

What we do know is there were no less than four fires set throughout the city of White Rock and close proximity Sunday morning.

#1. 

A children's playground constructed from wood and plastic and located on the Cypress street road end @ Victoria avenue was set ablaze in the early hours Sunday morning, No injuries. Fire quickly extinguished

#2

Major condominium fire on Royal and Pacific Avenue. Time 4:30 a.m.

#3

Sandpiper Liquor store is broken into @ 5:10 a.m. Owner confirmed the CCTV cameras captures clear pictures of two suspects robbing the liquor out of the window.

#4. 

10:30 a.m. a fire is started in an alleyway off of Pacific avenue near Stayte road. Fire quickly extinguished no major damage. No injuries

#5

12 noon residents of the Semiahmoo First Nations witnessed an individual attempting to start a building on fire behind the band's office. The Surrey RCMP responded to the 911 call and took the suspect into custody. 

The suspect taken into custody Sunday appeared in Surrey Provincial court Tuesday morning where he was charged with arson damaging property.

The accused is 18 year old JAMES DYER of Surrey was released on his own recognizance.

The White Rock & Surrey RCMP continue their very active investigation today.

May 20, 2016

RCMP Investigating Arsons

There has been no official word on the cause of the blaze that destroyed the two condo complexes at 5 Corners Sunday.

What we do know is there were no less than four fires set throughout the city of White Rock and close proximity Sunday morning.

#1.

A children's playground constructed from wood and plastic and located on the Cypress street road end @ Victoria avenue was set ablaze in the early hours Sunday morning, No injuries. Fire quickly extinguished

#2

Major condominium fire on Royal and Pacific Avenue. Time 4:30 a.m.

#3

Sandpiper Liquor store is broken into @ 5:10 a.m. Owner confirmed the CCTV cameras captures clear pictures of two suspects robbing the liquor out of the window.

#4.

10:30 a.m. a fire is started in an alleyway off of Pacific avenue near Stayte road. Fire quickly extinguished no major damage. No injuries

#5

12 noon residents of the Semiahmoo First Nations witnessed an individual attempting to start a building on fire behind the band's office. The Surrey RCMP responded to the 911 call and took the suspect into custody.

The suspect taken into custody Sunday appeared in Surrey Provincial court Tuesday morning where he was charged with arson damaging property.

The accused is 18 year old JAMES DYER of Surrey was released on his own recognizance.

The White Rock & Surrey RCMP continue their very active investigation today.

May 19, 2016

Mayor Caught Between White Rock & A Hard Place

That's the headline you will see when you pick up your copy of THE PROVINCE today.

White Rock mayor WAYNE BALDWIN and former White Rock resident and council candidate DENNIS LYPKA go head to head on the pro's and con's of White Rock rejoining Surrey.

(click here to read the story and to watch the video)

May 17, 2016

Eye In The Sky

White Rock resident and traffic reporter for WX1130 DARREN "Danger" GRIEVE sent along this picture taken yesterday afternoon. The fire started at the rear of the condo project under construction pictured in the top left hand corner of photo.

No official announcement has been made yet on whether or not it will be possible to rebuild or if the whole structure will have to come down.

May 15, 2016

Five Corners Fire

Smoke could be seen for miles as the fire ripped through the condo structures. This shot was taken by a reader from the Inn @ Semiahmoo in Blaine.

The fire broke out early this morning around 5 a.m. in a wooden three storey condo under construction on Royal Avenue in the 15200 block. The fire quickly jumped to the condo located at 5 Corners. The fire at one point threatened the Star of the Sea hall located next to the condo. Firefighters fought the fire from the roof of the Star of the Sea in order to prevent the fire from spreading. Surrey and White Rock fire crews fought the stubborn blaze for hours before eventually bringing it under control at 8 a.m.

There have been no reports of any injuries.

The cause of the fire is unknown as the investigation is in the very early stage.

Photo courtesy Diana Arnold

Origin of fire in under construction condo on Royal Avenue

Photo courtesy Bill Brooks