Author: Andrew Rogers

Beacon Community Services, a non-profit based in the Saanich Peninsula, has received recognition as a top family support service provider in British Columbia. The organization is a nominee for the 2025 Carol Matusicky Distinguished Service to Families Award. This honor comes from the BC Council for Families, highlighting Beacon’s strong partnership with School District 63 (SD63) and the Individual Learning Centre (ILC). The award recognizes groups and individuals across B.C. who have made a lasting impact on family well-being. Beacon Community Services was nominated for its collaborative work with SD63 and the ILC. Together, they offer inclusive programs and wraparound…

In 2024, 144 workers in Coquitlam earned more than $150,000, showing a notable rise in city salaries compared to previous years. This comes as the city’s debt dropped and tax revenue increased, reflecting a stronger financial position. Among the highest-paid city officials was Chief Administrative Officer Raul Allueva, whose total pay, including expenses, reached $422,803. Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Michelle Hunt earned $373,507, also including expenses. Mayor Richard Stewart received $232,602 last year, which is roughly $13,000 more than his 2023 earnings. City councillors earned $84,072 on average in 2024, up from $78,311 in 2023. Their benefits totaled $7,279. Expenses…

Donna Bilous, a dedicated coach and volunteer from Abbotsford, has been officially inducted into the Special Olympics BC Hall of Fame. Her recognition as a Provincial Builder highlights more than two decades of commitment to inclusive sport, community leadership, and advocacy for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Bilous has been a vital part of Special Olympics BC, contributing to program operations, coaching, and volunteer coordination. Her efforts have played a major role in helping the organization grow and support athletes across the province. She now joins fellow inductee Erin Thom of Cranbrook in receiving this prestigious honor. Bilous expressed deep gratitude…

A residential area in Surrey was shaken by reports of gunfire on Sunday afternoon. The Surrey Police Service (SPS) confirmed it is investigating the incident, which happened near 96 Avenue, just west of 152 Street. Sgt. Tige Pollock, Media Relations Officer with the SPS, stated that members of the Surrey RCMP Provincial Operations Support Unit (SPOSU) are on the scene. Officers responded after multiple calls from the public reported loud popping sounds, believed to be gunshots. Local resident Stephen, who contacted a radio station, said he saw a gun shell on the driveway of one of the homes. He did…

A 28-year-old man has been arrested after a stabbing on a Vancouver bus early Sunday morning. The incident happened near the intersection of Burrard Street and Cornwall Avenue in the Kitsilano area, shortly before 3 a.m. When police officers arrived, they found a 22-year-old man suffering from life-threatening stab wounds. The victim was taken to hospital and is now receiving treatment. His current condition has not been shared with the public. Authorities identified the suspect as Parsa Ganjizadehzavareh. He was arrested near the crime scene shortly after the attack. Police have charged him with three serious offenses: aggravated assault, assault…

A 33-year-old man from Richmond, B.C., has been charged with second-degree murder after police found his partner fatally injured on Friday. The case is being seen as another tragic sign of rising gender-based violence in the province. Police say the suspect, George Dragnea, was arrested after officers responded to a call in the 8600 block of Capstan Way. This area is home to many apartment buildings and a busy shopping center. When police arrived, they found a 51-year-old woman with serious injuries. She was pronounced dead soon after. Dragnea was taken into custody and charged the next day. The charge…

A popular hot pot restaurant in Burnaby has been quietly listed for sale, raising questions about the future of one of the city’s most recognized dining spots. This unexpected move could mark the end of a well-known name in the local food scene. The property, described as a “flagship hot pot restaurant,” was listed earlier this week by a commercial real estate agent. The location is in the heart of Burnaby, making it one of the most sought-after areas for dining and retail. A closer look at the listing revealed that the restaurant in question is The Dolar Shop. This…

Much of British Columbia has seen unstable weather recently, including showers, cooler temperatures, and occasional thunderstorms. However, a dry weather pattern is expected to return in the coming days, according to the provincial wildfire service. The southern parts of B.C. experienced rain and cooler weather over the weekend. These conditions offered some relief in regions that have been hot spots for wildfires this season. The BC Wildfire Service said winds also swept through the area, along with chances of thunderstorms, especially near the Coast Mountains. These storms brought much-needed rainfall to some dry regions. In northeastern B.C., a cold front…

Canada is rethinking its approach to copyright laws in the age of artificial intelligence. The federal government is closely watching legal cases in both Canada and the United States before deciding its next steps. This includes a key lawsuit against OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, which is now challenging an Ontario court’s authority. Evan Solomon, Canada’s minister overseeing artificial intelligence, confirmed in a statement that copyright issues will be part of a broader plan for AI regulation. The goal is to protect cultural identity and ensure creators are not left out of important discussions. While Ottawa has no plans for…

The United Kingdom has decided to lower its voting age from 18 to 16, a move that has sparked fresh debate in Canada. Many youth advocates are now urging Canadian lawmakers to consider a similar change, saying it would improve political engagement and democratic participation. Jaden Braves, CEO of Young Politicians of Canada, welcomed the U.K. decision and said Canada has missed a chance to lead in youth democracy. He said the change is long overdue and shows a strong commitment to involving young people in the political process. The new voting age in the U.K. is part of a…