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May 9, 2026, 10:23 am |
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CORRY KRITICOS photo
Where You Can Vacation And Be Home The Same Day
In My Opinion
With the recent run of summer like weather, our waterfront in White Rock is beginning to sound and look like summer.
Hear no evil, see no evil......so that means it is time to start speaking.
Electric Scooters
Neither Surrey or White Rock are taking part in the pilot program to allow electric scooters to operate in the cities.
Why then are the RCMP and Surrey Police turning a blind eye? Good question.
Loud Exhausts on Motorbikes and Cars
Determining whether a vehicle is too loud usually comes down to a police officer’s subjective opinion. Police are not required to carry equipment to measure sound levels and there is no requirement for police to empirically determine sound levels. So why are we plagued on Marine Drive and up and down Johnston Road with incredibly loud vehicles that literally shake the windows. The officer can write a ticket based on his observation, the courts will decide if contested. Another good question.
Safety On The Waterfront
Last week all the members of council were invited to a Community Policing "Thank You" social event. While there a lady came up to me who was attending the event ( I later realized she was a Community Police volunteer) she asked me if there was anything the city could do about the large groups gathering at night along Marine Drive in the area of Marine Drive/Memorial Park and the west beach parking lots? I explained to her that she was not the first person to express concern. The White Rock RCMP staff sergeant was in attendance at the event and I asked if we could meet the next morning. He replied in the affirmative./ We met the next morning in his office and I expressed the concern I was hearing back from the community about what seemed like a lack of presence by the RCMP along our waterfront. Staff Sergent DIXON informed me extra shifts for the waterfront would soon be in place and he was hopeful this would alleviate some of the residents concerns. Time will tell.
Dogs On The Promenade and the Pier
A common problem. There is probably not a time that I visit the waterfront, which is often that I don't see people merrily walking their dogs along the promenade right in front of the NO DOGS allowed signs. Which by the way there are 7 of them from the pier to the end of the museum. Our bylaw officers (when they are actually patrolling the promenade) ask violators to please take their dogs off the promenade. For the most part violators respond in a positive manner. Our Bylaw officers DO NOT issue tickets for dog violations.
Rundown Boarded Up Businesses
I agree they look like s___t. Yet there is nothing the city can do, we do not have a bylaw that we could enforce for vacant unkempt businesses. Several members of the current council are attempting to work with staff to develop some form of enforcement method. Even if they are empty there is no reason for the vacant businesses to look so damn rundown and uncared for. Wish us luck.
P.S. Before you ask, there is absolutely nothing the city can do about the mix of businesses on the waterfront if they meet the zoning bylaws. Too many fish n chip shops? Too many ice cream parlours? Too many Indian food restaurants.
The market will decide who stays and who goes.
Thank you for reading and writing.
David Chesney Editor/Publisher and third term city councillor
11 1/2 years of service and counting.
Email - editor@whiterockcity.ca
Local News
May 08, 2026
If You Go Out In The Woods Today
The Coastal Fire Centre covers the Lower Mainland, Sea-to-Sky corridor, Vancouver Island, the Central Coast (BC Interior) and Haida Gwaii.
Fe Fi Fo Fun............Surrey Soccer Fan Zones kick off with opening celebration on June 12
Fans invited to free live viewing of Canada’s first FIFA World Cup 26™ match on the big screen . The City of Surrey will officially launch its Surrey Soccer Fan Zones with a free opening celebration on June 12 at Civic Plaza, where fans can gather to watch Canada’s first match of the FIFA World Cup 26™ on the big screen. In honour of this once-in-a-lifetime moment, the first 250 fans will receive a $10 coupon redeemable at all food and beverage vendors onsite, along with additional giveaways. This celebration kicks off six weeks of more than 100 free live match broadcasts at three locations, offering residents and visitors the chance to share the excitement of the world’s biggest sporting event.
The opening celebration will feature a live broadcast of the Canadian men’s team taking on Bosnia and Herzegovina. Fans can enjoy a full day of activities, featuring the Surrey Sports Hall of Fame booth, Whitecaps FC and local soccer clubs, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, community exhibitors, food trucks, and a beer garden. Programming also extends to Kick It! at Central City Plaza.
Two additional Surrey Soccer Fan Zones will open later in the tournament:
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Cloverdale Agriplex on July 1, in conjunction with Surrey’s Canada Day festivities
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South Surrey Athletic Park on July 14
For detailed schedules, programming, and event information, visit surreysoccerfanzones.ca.
From The Pages Of The White Rock Sun
 November 1966
It is rather hard to believe the Guildford Town Centre opened some 60 odd years ago.
When we made the decision to launch CANADA'S FIRST INTERNET NEWSPAPER the natural name for the paper was The White Rock Sun. The White Rock Sun was created in 1957 as The Semiahmoo Sun morphed into the new weekly newspaper version called the White Rock Sun.
The White Rock Sun was purchased in 1976 and became The Peace Arch News. The parent company of the Peace Arch News did not see the value in retaining the name The White Rock Sun.
We did.
May 06, 2026
ALEX BROWNE in this week's Peace Arch News reveals how White Rock's population is changing
-we continue to grow in population
-our average residents age is above the national average
-the racial mix is changing
Rotary Club of South Surrey / Missing Signs:
Rotary Club of South Surrey, bi-annual Shred-It coming up on Saturday May 16th and our lawn signs are going missing?? one of our biggest advertising methods for the event, – a big expense to the club- each sign costs the club approximately. $15.00. If you find these signs or know where they are please phone (#phone number on sign) and we will come and pick them up – very much appreciated – not sure why they are being taken. We have permission from the City of White Rock and City of Surrey to have them up for the month of May – thank you to both cities for their support
Kind regards,
Deirdre O’Ruairc
May 05, 2026
Join MAYOR LOCKE on May 14 at 12:30pm to hear Mayor Brenda Locke deliver her 2026 State of the City address. The Mayor will share her vision for Surrey’s future, along with updates on City achievements and upcoming projects.
Watch it live right here on our Facebook page.
Learn more: https://ow.ly/MUVX50YS59E
...Meanwhile
Mayor Brenda Locke is calling for a public inquiry into Metro Vancouver pushing for clearer answers on decisions, governance, and rising costs that impact residents and businesses across the region.
This is about building trust, strengthening oversight, and ensuring our communities are being represented the right way.
May 02, 2026
This past week The PROVINCE daily newspaper dispatched a writer and photographer to White Rock in order to get to the bottom of the food scene on our waterfront.
.....popular but pricey
.....rent has doubled
.....huge stumbling block in one word-PARKING
25% of the Surrey Langley SkyTrain guideway is now complete, with nearly 30% of Surrey’s section already in place!
All four launching gantries remain active along Fraser Highway, keeping construction moving forward.
SPS Investigating Physical Assault of Child
Surrey Police Service (SPS) is investigating an incident that occurred during the April 19, 2026, Khalsa Day celebrations where a young boy was allegedly assaulted while inside a carnival attraction.
On Sunday, April 19, 2026, at approximately 5:00 pm, SPS Frontline officers responded to a report of an assault that occurred outside the Gurdwara in the 12800 block of 85 Avenue. It was determined that inside a haunted house amusement called “Creepy Castle,” which was set up in the parking lot for the Khalsa Day festivities, an 8-year-old boy had been assaulted by two adult males. The child escaped from the males and fled outside to inform his family. The child suffered injuries to his neck which required treatment at a hospital.
SPS’s Major Crime Unit and Special Victims Team (SVT) has assumed conduct of the investigation. The owner/operator of the carnival is cooperating, and staff are not believed to be involved in the alleged assaults.
SPS detectives have searched the area for physical and digital evidence and canvassed for witnesses. Two suspects have been identified because of this work. These suspects are described as South Asian adult males wearing dark clothing. One of the males was wearing a turban and the other a very distinctive floral patterned brown shirt. The search for digital evidence has resulted in images of the potential suspects being captured (see attached photos).
SPS is appealing for additional witnesses and other potential victims to come forward. Furthermore, police are asking others who attended the area and have photos or video of the interior or exterior of the “Creepy Castle” between 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm on April 19, 2026, to contact police.
Anyone with information should contact SPS’s non-emergency line at 604-599-0502 and quote file number 26-37221 (SP) or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
May 01, 2026
Stage 2 water restrictions take effect today (May 1) to help ensure enough water is available for essential needs during the dry season.
 PROHIBITED
- Lawn watering, including grass boulevards
- Filling or topping up fountains and water features
 ALLOWED
- Watering trees, shrubs, and flowers with sprinklers between 5–9am (residential) or 4-9am (non-residential) on any day
- Hand watering or drip irrigation for trees, shrubs, and flowers at any time
- Watering edible gardens at any time
- Washing vehicles
Thank you for doing your part to conserve water!
Stage 1 water restrictions are officially in place in White Rock starting May 1, marking the start of the annual conservation period that helps protect the community’s water supply. These measures support responsible and sustainable water use as temperatures rise and rainfall decreases.
The City of White Rock operates and manages its own water system and is not currently aligned with Metro Vancouver’s Stage 2 restrictions. However, as conditions change, the City may introduce additional stages (Stage 2 through Stage 4) if needed to safeguard local water resources.
Residents in both single-family and multifamily homes are encouraged to stay informed throughout the season by visiting the City’s Water Conservation webpage.
Residential Lawn Watering Regulations Include:
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Even-numbered addresses: Saturdays
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Odd-numbered addresses: Sundays
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Automatic watering: 5 a.m. – 7 a.m.
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Manual watering: 6 a.m. – 9 a.m.
Additional Notes:
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Trees, shrubs, and flowers may be watered any day, at any time if using hand watering or drip irrigation.
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These regulations do not apply to watering fruits or vegetables.
For full details and ongoing updates, visit the City’s Water Conservation page: www.whiterockcity.ca/water
Night Owl
 
But fatalities remain low, according to the BC Coroners Service.
Garden
Hostas, with their lush foliage and variety of sizes and colors, are a staple in many gardens. They are known for their ability to thrive in shade and add texture and depth to garden beds. However, if you're looking to achieve those enviable massive hosta leaves that capture attention all summer long, there are some critical steps that need to be taken in May to ensure your hostas are set up for success.
May is a pivotal month for hosta care, as it sets the stage for the entire growing season. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or new to hosta cultivation, understanding the specific needs of these plants during this time can make a significant difference. From soil preparation to pest control, each task you undertake now will contribute to the overall health and vigor of your hostas, ensuring they reach their full potential in size and beauty.
1. Start With a Ruthless Spring Cleanup Around Every Hosta
Begin by removing any dead leaves, stems, and debris from around your hostas to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. A clean garden bed allows for better air circulation and reduces the risk of fungal infections. Use a hand rake to gently clear away mulch and leaves from the base of the plants, being careful not to damage the emerging shoots.
Prune away any damaged or dead foliage from the previous season. This not only improves the aesthetics of your garden but also encourages new growth. It's important to use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make precise cuts, which will heal faster and reduce the risk of disease.
2. Feed for Foliage: Choose the Right Fertilizer and Apply It Now
Hostas benefit from a balanced fertilizer that supports foliage growth. A slow-release granular fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 is ideal for hostas. Apply the fertilizer at the base of the plant, following the package instructions for the appropriate amount per plant size, typically around 1 to 2 tablespoons per plant.
Water the fertilizer in thoroughly after application to help it dissolve and reach the plant roots. Feeding your hostas in May gives them a nutrient boost just as they're entering their most vigorous growth phase, leading to larger, more robust leaves.
3. Supercharge Soil With Compost and Mulch for Monster Leaves
Incorporating organic matter into the soil can dramatically improve its quality and structure. Spread a 1 to 2-inch layer of compost around your hostas, working it gently into the top few inches of soil. This will enhance soil fertility and water retention, providing your hostas with the nutrients they need for optimal growth.
Follow up with a 2 to 3-inch layer of mulch, such as shredded bark or pine needles. Mulch helps to maintain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, all of which contribute to healthier hostas with larger leaves.
4. Divide and Replant Crowded Clumps Before Heat Hits
If your hostas have become overcrowded, May is the perfect time to divide them. Overcrowding can lead to smaller leaves and less vigorous growth. Gently dig up the clump, being careful to keep the root ball intact. Use a clean, sharp knife or spade to divide the clump into smaller sections, each with at least three to five eyes or buds.
Replant the divisions immediately, spacing them at least 18 to 24 inches apart to give them room to grow. Water them well after planting to help the roots establish quickly.
5. Dial In Shade and Sun: Move Strugglers to Their Ideal Spot
Hostas thrive in partial to full shade, but some varieties can tolerate more sun than others. Observe your garden's sun patterns and move any hostas that are struggling in their current location. Ideally, hostas should receive morning sun and afternoon shade.
When relocating hostas, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and plant them at the same depth they were growing before. Water them thoroughly after transplanting and keep them well-watered until they're established in their new spot.
TNT The Naked Truth
Don Pitcairn
Pressing For Freedom
I'm writing this TNT to help celebrate World Press Freedom Day that was observed on May 3rd.
Here at the White Rock Sun, we treat freedom of the press very seriously and attempt to bring the public a wide variety of stories and reports from the Semiahmoo peninsula that reflect the truth as we know it. The White Rock Sun was established by Dave Chesney as Canada's first internet only newspaper 20 years ago and I have been writing my cheeky "The Naked Truth" TNT column for 19 years. Not being mainstream or corporate news, the WR Sun is free to report on anything that we believe is newsworthy for the citizens of White Rock and South Surrey. It has repeatedly attracted the ire of White Rock City Hall over the years with Editor and White Rock Councillor Dave Chesney often being targeted for continuing to run this ground-breaking form of electronic newspaper. For myself, it has been an honour and privilege to write for the WR Sun with freedom of thought, purpose, perspective and almost no editorial control. I find my own stories, I try to write them in an informative and entertaining style, hoping that people will enjoy them and possibly learn something along the way.
Thought For The Day
Final Day To Get Your Tickets
Tomorrow In THE SUN
Recipe of the Week
This beet, apple, and goat cheese salad would be at home at any picnic or BBQ.
Waterfront West Beach Live Camera
Check the weather @ the beach 24/7
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