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In a meaningful step towards recognizing Indigenous heritage, Hall’s Prairie Elementary in South Surrey will reopen as Xw’epiteng Elementary for the 2024-25 school year. The new name, gifted by the Semiahmoo First Nation, was presented by Chief Harley Chappell. The school board unanimously approved the change on June 12th.

Embracing a New Identity

Xw’epiteng, pronounced woh-pee-ten, means “place of many rabbits.” This name reflects the school’s commitment to its outdoor, land-based learning program. Located near the Ta’talu watershed, Semiahmoo Bay, and Campbell Valley Park, the school offers students ample opportunities to learn and grow in nature. The program focuses on holistic development and personal, social, and environmental awareness.

A School with Deep Roots

The renaming of Hall’s Prairie Elementary honors the school’s relationship with the Semiahmoo First Nation. In 2009, the school changed its mascot to the hawk after consulting with the Semiahmoo, highlighting their deep connection.

A New Chapter Begins

Hall’s Prairie Elementary ceased operations in December 2020. It will now reopen as Xw’epiteng Elementary, serving kindergarten to Grade 7 students. The school will continue its mission as an outdoor, land-based institution. With 120 students currently enrolled, registration for the next academic year is open.

Upcoming Ceremony

To commemorate this significant change, Surrey Schools will host a ceremony in the fall. The exact date will be announced later. This event promises to mark the beginning of Xw’epiteng Elementary’s new journey.

This renaming celebrates the rich history and culture of the Semiahmoo First Nation. It also sets a precedent for educational institutions to integrate Indigenous perspectives into their curriculums and communities.

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Mark your calendars! The 2024 Canada Cup Women’s International Softball Championship starts on Canada Day, July 1, in South Surrey. If you have plans, make room for some thrilling softball action at Softball City.

The tournament will feature over 1,500 elite athletes from Canada and around the world. They will showcase top female fastpitch talent at both national and club levels. Team Canada has a packed schedule on opening day. They will face New Zealand at 1 p.m. and Mexico at 6 p.m.

After their Canada Day doubleheader, Team Canada continues with a 6 p.m. game against the Philippines on Tuesday, July 2. They will play Israel at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3, and finish their pool games against Hong Kong at 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 4.

Other notable games include Greece vs. Australia on July 1 at 6 p.m. and TC Colorado vs. Chinese Taipei at 8:30 p.m. on July 2. TC Colorado reached last year’s final, making this game one to watch.

The playoffs are scheduled for July 5, 6, and 7, with the gold-medal final on Sunday, July 7, at 6 p.m.

The 10-day event, from June 28 to July 7, also features four other divisions: Futures Select (U19), Futures Gold (U19), Showcase Select (17U), and Showcase Gold (17U).

For the complete schedule and ticket information of the Canada Cup, visit their website!

Don’t miss this premier fastpitch tournament – come and support your favorite teams at Softball City!

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Positive impacts from White Rock and South Surrey’s inclusion projects shined at the Inclusion 2024: Everybody Belongs! conference. Held in Nanaimo from May 30 to June 1, this event highlighted the power of inclusive community initiatives.

Showcasing Leadership through the CLIC Storytellers Program

Representatives shared about SFU Surrey’s Envision Financial Community Leaders Igniting Change (CLIC) Storytellers program. This 12-week course empowers Surrey residents with leadership skills. It helps them address challenges in their organizations, communities, and personal lives. The program encourages open collaboration, allowing participants to improve their communication, decision-making, and critical thinking.

Manjeet Ghangass was the first person with an open developmental disability to graduate from CLIC in December 2017. He paved the way for others. Graduates Krista Milne and Jeevan Basran also shared their experiences at the conference. They have joined over 125 Surrey residents who completed the program. Supported by Envision Financial, these graduates receive fair pay and flexible work suited to their accessibility needs. They interview other Storyteller graduates and document the positive impacts on their communities.

Empowering Community Development through UNITI

Members of UNITI‘s Community Development Committee, like Lauren Simpson, Natalie Raven, Stacey Kohler, Jeevan Basra, and Alexa Lehwald, spoke about their leadership roles. These roles were made possible by UNITI’s innovative Community Development Services. Lehwald, who is working towards a Faculty of Arts Certificate through Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Including All Citizens Pathway program, shared her journey of becoming a leader through education.

Kohler, speaking at the conference for the first time, highlighted her work with the Semiahmoo Rotary Club. She was excited to address the audience and talk about Rotary’s importance.

Simpson, a 2024 Surrey Women in Business Award winner, discussed how UNITI’s Community Development Services helped her pursue housing advocacy and public speaking. As a leader in UNITI’s Harmony campaign, Simpson shared her pride in speaking to a large audience. This experience boosted her confidence and that of her peers.

Embracing Disability Inclusion

The annual Inclusion BC Conference is a platform to celebrate, network, and share real stories of disability inclusion. This year’s panels explored topics like Indigenous inclusion. They also discussed how politicians can work with advocacy and community groups to advance the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The conference highlighted ongoing efforts to build truly inclusive communities.

Conclusion

The 2024 Inclusion Conference showcased significant progress in White Rock and South Surrey towards fostering inclusive communities. Through programs like CLIC and UNITI’s Community Development Services, people with developmental disabilities are becoming leaders and advocates. This highlights the transformative power of inclusion.

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Despite the rain, real-life superheroes gathered in South Surrey on Sunday, June 2, for The Centre for Child Development’s 22nd annual Superhero Dash. This two-kilometer event, held at South Surrey Athletic Park, brought together participants of all ages to run, walk, and roll, raising funds for a noble cause.

A Day of Fun and Fundraising

The Superhero Dash, taking place on the blue-track oval, saw participants take five laps to support The Centre for Child Development. This organization, serving children in Surrey, White Rock, Langley, and Delta, has been working to empower vulnerable children and families since 1953.

Participants, many dressed as superheroes, warmed up before starting the dash. The event drew a large crowd, including community partners like the Surrey firefighters, representatives from the Surrey Eagles and Langley Blaze, the Lions Club, and Surrey-White Rock MLA Trevor Halford.

Community and Connection

Judith Reaugh, The Centre’s vice president of communications and governance, highlighted the event’s importance. “This is probably our most community-connected event. A lot of the families and kids that we serve come out for this event because they get to connect with each other, and no matter what their mobility level is, they can come and they can run, walk or roll,” she said. The event fosters a sense of community and inclusivity, allowing everyone to participate regardless of their physical abilities.

Supporting Vital Services

The funds raised from the Superhero Dash go toward essential programs and supplies not covered by government funding. This includes dietitians, hydrotherapy pool maintenance, and supplies for custom casting and splinting. “Usually it’s not raining, but you see the level of love that people have,” said Reaugh. “They come out anyways, even if it is raining – and not just the superheroes – because it’s fun and… just to show them that everybody has their own special ability, no matter what your ability level is.”

Making a Difference

The Centre for Child Development provides comprehensive medical rehabilitation programs and multidisciplinary therapeutic services. Each year, they serve over 5,700 children through more than 30,000 sessions across 350 locations in Surrey, White Rock, Delta, and Langley. “Part of what we do at the center is, we sort of go on a journey with the families to explore what each child is going to be able to do, whatever that may be,” Reaugh added, emphasizing the personalized care and support they offer to each child and family.

Generous Donations

At the event, the Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society presented The Centre with a $15,000 cheque. The North Surrey Lions Club also contributed with a $5,000 donation. These generous contributions will help sustain and expand The Centre’s vital programs and services.

How to Contribute

Fundraising totals were not available on the day of the event, as supporters can still donate to individuals and teams until June 11. To contribute or learn more, visit The Centre for Child Development and Canada Helps.

The Superhero Dash exemplifies community spirit and dedication to supporting children with disabilities. Rain or shine, the commitment of participants and supporters continues to make a significant impact.

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A beloved community event in South Surrey is relocating to accommodate its growing popularity. Ugly Potato Day, started by the Heppell family two years ago, aims to reduce food waste and address food insecurity. Initially a small gathering, it now attracts thousands of attendees, necessitating a move to a larger venue.

From Humble Beginnings to a Community Staple

Ugly Potato Day began as a modest effort by the Heppell family. They wanted to ensure that oddly shaped but edible potatoes, along with other imperfect produce, did not go to waste. These items, which often don’t meet commercial aesthetic standards, are offered to the public for free, promoting food security in the region.

The inaugural event saw only 12 participants, but its popularity has soared. Now, each event draws over 4,000 people to the Heppell farm, leading to capacity issues. This Saturday, June 8, marks the final Ugly Potato Day at the current South Surrey location. The event will soon move to a more spacious venue.

A New Home at the Cloverdale Rodeo Fairgrounds

Starting in August, Ugly Potato Day will be held at the Cloverdale Rodeo Fairgrounds. This move will allow the event to accommodate up to 15,000 people. Tyler Heppell, one of the event organizers, expressed excitement about the move. “We’re really excited – at this next venue, we’ll be able to host 15,000 people. They’ll be at the Cloverdale Rodeo Fairgrounds, so we’re keeping it nice and close… it’s a way bigger place.”

Upcoming Events and Community Impact

The new venue will host events on Saturday, August 3, and Saturday, October 19. Attendees can bring their own shopping bags to fill up on free produce. Despite its appearance, the produce remains fresh and nutritious. The expansion will also see greater participation from local farmers, contributing to a grocery store-like experience.

The Heppell family is also partnering with the Greater Vancouver Food Bank. This partnership enables them to provide tax receipts to donating farms. Over the past two years, these events have raised thousands of dollars for local food banks and contributed 406,000 meals to those in need.

Supporting the Cause

The Heppells’ efforts highlight the importance of community involvement. Addressing food waste and insecurity is a priority. “It’s a really good way for them to help the community, but also, at the end of the day, it helps their bottom line,” Heppell explained. He encourages more farms to join the initiative.

The final event at the Heppell farm, located at 4945 184 Street in Surrey, will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Saturday. Attendees are advised not to arrive early. They are also encouraged to bring their own bags and, if possible, a cash donation to the food bank.

Join the Movement

As Ugly Potato Day transitions to a larger venue, it continues to embody the spirit of community and sustainability. By participating, you not only enjoy fresh produce but also contribute to a meaningful cause. This supports local food security and reduces waste.

For more information, visit Heppell Family Farm or follow updates on their social media channels.

Should you need a local South Surrey Realtor, please contact Jared Gibbons!

The Bank of Canada today announced a reduction in its target for the overnight rate to 4¾%, with the Bank Rate at 5% and the deposit rate at 4¾%. This decision is part of the Bank’s ongoing policy of balance sheet normalization.

Global Economic Context

The global economy grew by about 3% in the first quarter of 2024, aligning closely with the Bank’s April Monetary Policy Report (MPR) projection. In the United States, economic expansion was slower than expected due to weak exports and inventories. Although growth in private domestic demand remained robust, it showed signs of easing. Meanwhile, in the euro area, economic activity picked up during the first quarter. In China, the economy strengthened, driven by exports and industrial production, despite weak domestic demand. Inflation in most advanced economies continues to ease, but progress toward price stability is uneven and varies across regions. Oil prices have remained close to the MPR assumptions, and financial conditions have seen little change since April.

Canadian Economic Performance

In Canada, economic growth resumed in the first quarter of 2024 after stalling in the second half of the previous year. First-quarter GDP growth was 1.7%, slower than the MPR forecast, primarily due to weaker inventory investment. Nevertheless, consumption growth was solid at about 3%, with increases in business investment and housing activity. Labor market data indicate that businesses are continuing to hire, although employment growth is lagging behind the growth of the working-age population. Wage pressures persist but appear to be gradually moderating. Overall, recent data suggest that the economy is still operating with excess supply.

Inflation Trends

CPI inflation eased further in April to 2.7%. The Bank’s preferred measures of core inflation also slowed, with three-month measures indicating continued downward momentum. Indicators of price increases across CPI components have moved closer to their historical averages, although shelter price inflation remains high.

Policy Decision

Given the continued evidence that underlying inflation is easing, the Governing Council decided that monetary policy no longer needs to be as restrictive and reduced the policy interest rate by 25 basis points. Recent data have bolstered confidence that inflation will continue to move towards the 2% target. However, risks to the inflation outlook persist. The Governing Council is closely monitoring the evolution of core inflation, the balance between demand and supply in the economy, inflation expectations, wage growth, and corporate pricing behavior. The Bank remains committed to restoring price stability for Canadians.

Next Announcement

The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is July 24, 2024. Concurrently, the Bank of Canada will publish its next full outlook for the economy and inflation, including risks to the projection, in the MPR.

Written by Jared Gibbons – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley

South Surrey families are invited to experience the authentic flavors of a Vietnamese Restaurant with a modern twist at the brand-new Nha Toi Boutique Cafe. Set in a cozy, boutique atmosphere, the restaurant promises a unique dining experience for all ages.

Grand Opening Celebration

Nha Toi’s grand opening celebration will take place from May 20 to 31, featuring discounts and gifts for customers. “We designed Nha Toi to be a place where both younger and older generations can enjoy time together. Our menu features Vietnamese classics paired with the popular Truedan bubble tea,” says owner Thuyen Ntyuin.

A Unique Dining Concept

Nha Toi Boutique Cafe is a unique dining concept where everyone, regardless of age, can enjoy a meal together. The menu includes traditional Vietnamese dishes such as beef noodle soup and Banh Mi sandwiches. The beef noodle soup is particularly special, simmered over two days to extract rich flavors from marrow bones, following a family recipe that brings a taste of Southern Vietnam to Canada. The cafe also offers a variety of gluten-free and vegan options, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Collaboration with Truedan

This month’s grand opening also highlights Nha Toi’s collaboration with Truedan, marking the introduction of the first Truedan bubble tea location in Surrey. This partnership brings an exciting range of bubble teas, including the exclusive brown sugar milk tea with fresh fruit options.

Special Lunch Menus

Nha Toi offers special lunch menus for $14.95 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays. These menus feature combinations like a beef noodle soup with a crispy spring roll or a Banh Mi with a fresh salad roll, making them perfect for neighborhood workers and residents looking for a quick, satisfying lunch.

Grand Opening Specials

For the grand opening, Nha Toi will offer free drinks with every $15 purchase, lucky draws, and special gifts. “It’s our way of giving back to the community that has welcomed us so warmly,” Thuyen says.

Visit Nha Toi Boutique Cafe

Nha Toi Boutique Cafe represents a blend of tradition and innovation, bringing a slice of Vietnam to South Surrey. For more information, visit nhatoicafe.com. Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for exclusive updates.

Located at 3189 King George Blvd, Nha Toi Boutique Cafe invites you to join in their grand opening celebrations and experience the best of Vietnamese cuisine.

Should you need a local South Surrey Realtor, please contact Jared Gibbons here! – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.

South Surrey is set to see a new development that includes a restaurant and an 80-room hotel. An online public hearing will take place tonight, Monday, May 27, at 7 p.m. on surrey.ca.

Key Details of the Proposal

The proposed development, located in the 2100 block of King George Boulevard, aims to replace an existing hotel and restaurant. To proceed, the project requires several approvals, including an amendment to the city’s official community plan (OCP) from urban to commercial, rezoning, and a development permit.

Planning and Community Impact

The planning report highlights that the site currently under-developed, has a Commercial designation in the King George Local Area Plan (LAP). Increasing the property’s density and enhancing its utility will greatly benefit the area. Moreover, the site benefits from excellent bus route service, making it strategically valuable.

The project includes a four-story hotel with 80 rooms and underground parking. The proposed 14-metre height of the building transitions appropriately between the nearby townhouses and the mixed-use buildings planned for the intersection of King George Boulevard and 156 Street.

Next Steps

The proposal has not yet undergone review by the city’s advisory design panel. However, public input during tonight’s meeting will play a crucial role in the decision-making process.

How to Get Involved

Residents and interested parties can watch or participate in the public hearing by visiting surrey.ca. This event offers a valuable opportunity to engage with the planning process and express support or concerns regarding the new development.

For more information on the proposal and the public hearing, visit surrey.ca.

Should you need a local South Surrey Realtor, please contact Jared Gibbons here! – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.

Join the City of Surrey in celebrating National Public Works Week with exciting and educational open houses on Saturday, May 25, from 10 am to 4 pm. The events will take place at the Newton and South Surrey Operations Centres, offering a day of free, family-friendly activities.

Fun Activities for All Ages

Bring your family and friends to enjoy a range of engaging activities, including:

• Firetruck Displays: Get an up-close look at the firetrucks and meet the firefighters who keep our community safe.
• Snowplow Painting: Let your creativity shine by painting snowplows.
• RC Boat Races: Compete in remote-controlled boat races.
• Facility Tours: Explore the heavy machinery and equipment that keep the city running smoothly.
• Delicious Treats: Enjoy complimentary hot dogs and snow cones.

Meet the Dedicated Public Works Staff

Mayor Brenda Locke highlights the importance of Public Works Week, stating, “I’m so proud of our dedicated staff who work tirelessly every day to maintain and improve essential services to advance the quality of life of our residents. From repairing potholes to ensuring clean drinking water, their efforts contribute to safer streets, healthier environments, and more efficient infrastructure. The open houses are an opportunity for the public to meet our operations staff and learn about the great work they do to keep the City running smoothly.”

Locations and Address

• Newton Operations Centre: 6651 148 St.
• South Surrey Operations Centre: 2236 166 St.

Achievements of Surrey’s Operations Staff

In the past year, Surrey’s operations staff have made significant contributions to maintaining and improving the city:

• Clean Roads: Conducted two City-wide Clean Blitz litter clean-ups, ensuring 4,200 kilometers of roads were litter-free.
• Winter Safety: Deployed 8,000 tonnes of salt over the winter to ensure safe commuting on over 4,000 lane kilometers.
• Tree Planting: Planted 22,118 native trees and 2,145 trees.
• Pothole Repairs: Filled 16,000 potholes.
• Park Trails: Constructed 4.4 kilometres of additional trails in parks.
• Resident Services: Responded to 12,215 service requests from residents.
• Sidewalk Repairs: Repaired 2,033 meters of sidewalk.
• Flood Control: Upgraded 2 kilometers of dykes and constructed 6 flood control drains.
• Sign Production: Made 13,562 signs in the Sign Shop.
• Graffiti Removal: Removed 626 graffiti tags.
• Animal Care: Provided care for 300 animals at the Surrey Animal Resource Centre and facilitated 97 pet adoptions.
• Recycling: Diverted 1,792 metric tonnes of recycling from the landfill.
• Organics: Diverted 5,315 metric tonnes of organics from the landfill.

More Information

For more details about the public works open houses and to learn more about the vital services provided by Surrey’s operations staff, visit surrey.ca/publicworksweek.

Celebrate the hard work and dedication of Surrey’s public works team and enjoy a day of fun and learning with your community!

Should you need a South Surrey Realtor, please contact Jared Gibbons here! – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.

South Surrey’s education scene receives a pleasant surprise as Ta’talu Elementary prepares to welcome 655 students. Originally set to open in January 2025, the school’s debut is now accelerated.

During a recent school board meeting on May 8, capital projects director David Riley shared the exciting news. “Ta’talu Elementary is proceeding ahead of schedule,” Riley announced. The school will now open in October for the fall semester.

The name “Ta’talu” originates from the SENĆOŦEN language, meaning ‘little arms’. Gifted to the district by Semiahmoo First Nation Chief Harley Chappell, the name pays homage to the Campbell River and its tributaries.

Reflecting on the significance of the school’s name, Chappell stated, “The opening of this school and the naming using the traditional language of the lands is great for the relationship building between Semiahmoo and the school district, students, staff, and local residents.”

Superintendent Mark Pearmain acknowledged the inquiry about the October inauguration’s impact on enrollment. He stated, “It is a welcome problem for us to have at this time.”

The early opening of Ta’talu Elementary not only sparks excitement but also fosters opportunities for strengthened community engagement and collaboration. It marks a significant milestone in South Surrey’s educational journey, nurturing deeper connections between the school district, indigenous communities, and local residents.

Written by Jared Gibbons – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.

The Surrey Eagles are heading to Penticton for Games 3 and 4 of the BCHL playoffs after an exhilarating start to the Fred Page Cup championship series. The series is currently tied 1-1, with both teams showcasing their strengths and determination.

Thrilling Victory at Home

On Friday, May 17, the Eagles secured a spectacular 6-0 shutout victory against the Penticton Vees on their home ice at South Surrey Arena, affectionately known as The Nest. This dominant performance ignited the team’s hopes for the championship. Furthermore, it demonstrated the Eagles’ offensive and defensive prowess.

Setback in Game 2

Despite their strong start, the Eagles faced a tough challenge in Game 2 on Saturday, May 18. Although Aaron Schwartz, assisted by captain Ty Brassington and Sid McNeill, scored the first goal in the second period, the Vees responded with three goals in the third period. Lucas Sorace, James Fisher, and Thomas Pichette scored for Penticton, leading to a 3-1 win for the Vees. Consequently, the series is now tied, setting the stage for an intense showdown.

Eagles’ Stellar Season

The Surrey Eagles have had one of their best seasons, finishing at the top of the league in points, coaching, scoring, and goaltending. Their remarkable performance earned them six of the BCHL’s nine year-end trophies, highlighting their dominance throughout the season. Therefore, their journey to the playoffs has been nothing short of impressive.

Upcoming Games in Penticton

With the series tied, the Eagles will travel to Penticton for Games 3 and 4, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, May 21 and 22. These critical games will take place at the South Okanagan Events Centre, where the Eagles aim to regain their lead in the series. Additionally, these away games will test the team’s resilience and adaptability.

Return to The Nest

The Eagles will return to South Surrey for Game 5 on Friday, May 24. Fans can purchase tickets for this pivotal game at tickets.surreyeagles.ca. Moreover, the home crowd’s support will be crucial as the Eagles strive to secure a victory.

Should you need a South Surrey Realtor, please give Jared Gibbons a call! – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.