Author: Andrew Rogers

Vancouver is a city where mountains meet the ocean, offering a perfect blend of nature, culture, and cosmopolitan charm. Whether you’re planning your first trip or you’ve called the city home for years, there’s always something new to uncover. From biking along the scenic seawall to sipping craft coffee in quirky neighborhoods, Vancouver offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. In this 2025 local’s guide, we’ll walk you through 25 of the best things to do in Vancouver—including iconic landmarks, hidden gems, foodie tours, and epic day trips. We’ve also included helpful affiliate links to book tours, hotels, and gear,…

The Kamloops and District Chamber of Commerce has revealed the finalists for the 2025 Kamloops Business Excellence Awards. This annual event highlights outstanding local businesses and leaders who contribute to making Kamloops a vibrant community, said Acacia Pangilinan, the chamber’s executive director. This year, over 200 nominations were received, representing 76 different businesses across various sectors. A committee of 45 volunteers carefully reviewed all nominations to select finalists in each award category. The winners will be announced during the Business Excellence Awards gala on October 23, sponsored by MNP.

The City of Abbotsford is moving forward with upgrades to Mill Lake Park. On Tuesday, July 22, city council approved $1 million to start the first phase of the work. The upgrades will begin right away and are expected to finish by summer 2026. The project includes replacing and widening three sections of the lake loop trail. It also includes putting in underground cables and bases for future pathway lights. The money for this work will come from the city’s community works fund. This is part of a larger plan called the Mill Lake Master Plan. The plan will guide…

City Councillor Ron Polillo plays a significant role in the efforts to improve public safety in Prince George. As a member of the Public Safety Committee, Polillo has been actively involved in addressing crime concerns and supporting initiatives aimed at making the city safer for its residents. His work highlights the importance of community collaboration and targeted investments in police services to reduce crime rates. Polillo has expressed optimism about recent data showing a decline in crime in Prince George. He believes this positive trend reflects the combined efforts of law enforcement and community programs. The councillor points to the…

Zuma Martial Arts in Victoria, B.C., is currently under intense scrutiny following allegations of sexual misconduct involving the gym’s owner and head coach. The martial arts community and local residents have been shaken by claims brought forward by multiple women who trained at the downtown gym. These allegations detail serious instances of unwanted touching and verbal harassment during sparring sessions, raising concerns about safety and trust in the facility. Zuma Martial Arts has been a well-known training center in Victoria, offering martial arts instruction to a diverse group of students. However, recent reports from at least two women, who have…

Randene Neill, BC Minister of Water, is a name that has recently appeared in discussions related to British Columbia’s environmental stewardship and Indigenous land partnerships. Although there is limited publicly available information about her, the role of the Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship is a crucial part of the provincial government’s efforts to balance environmental protection, economic development, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. This article explores the significance of the position and the typical responsibilities that someone like Randene Neill would hold in this role, based on the context provided. The Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship…

The BMW M3 is one of the most recognized and respected names in the world of high-performance automobiles. Developed by BMW’s M division, this powerful sports sedan has stood the test of time for nearly four decades. From its origins as a race-ready homologation special in the 1980s to the current technology-packed powerhouse, the M3 continues to set benchmarks in driving dynamics, precision, and daily usability. The journey of the BMW M3 began in 1986 with the release of the E30 model. It was initially designed to satisfy Group A touring car racing regulations. With a lightweight chassis and a…

New Westminster, often referred to as “The Royal City,” is one of the oldest and most historically rich cities in British Columbia. Located along the banks of the Fraser River, it holds a special place in Canada’s development as a province and a nation. With a population of around 78,000 as of 2021, the city remains a vital hub in the Metro Vancouver region, offering a unique blend of heritage, community life, and urban renewal. Founded in 1859 by the Royal Engineers, New Westminster was chosen as the first capital of the Colony of British Columbia. Queen Victoria herself named…

Deputy City Manager Karen Levitt is stepping into a critical leadership role in Vancouver as she takes on the position of acting city manager. This transition comes after Paul Mochrie, Vancouver’s long-serving city manager, announced his decision to step down following more than a decade of service with the city. Karen Levitt’s appointment as the interim leader underscores her experience and deep familiarity with the city’s ongoing projects and challenges. As Deputy City Manager, Levitt has been a key figure within Vancouver’s administration, having held several leadership roles over the years. Her leadership experience positions her well to maintain the…

White Rock Pride Week launched with strong community support and continues to gain momentum, according to Rob Christensen, president of the White Rock Pride Society. Christensen shared on Tuesday that the events have drawn an excellent response from local residents. He added that only a few tickets remain for the final event, the “Love Is Love Gala,” scheduled for Friday, July 25, at Hazelmere Golf and Tennis Club. The week’s festivities began on Friday, July 18, with the traditional flag-raising ceremony at White Rock City Hall. Around 50 people gathered on the city hall lawn, including local officials such as…