New West Mayor Says Surrey Can’t + Frauds and Scams

Issue #156

Author

Carla McNeil
March 01, 2025

Inside the New West Spotlight

 ⛅️ Weather - Sun with cloudy periods

 😜 Rain Joke - Why did the rain go to the bar?

 🔦 Business Spotlight - Move Studio

  🗓️ New West Events - Variety

 🗞️ New West Local News - New West Mayor Says Surrey Can’t + Frauds and Scams

 📰 Advertise with New West Spotlight - Buy One, Get One Free

Local New Westminster Weather

Historical Records for Today - Record high 13.0 2022 - Record low -4.5 2019

Walking into Move Studio isn’t like stepping into a typical fitness space. It’s like entering a friend’s home—one where you’re welcomed with open arms, a warm cup of tea, and a community that feels like family. At the heart of it all is the owner, whose passion for movement, connection, and inclusivity has shaped the studio into more than just a place to exercise.

Overcoming Challenges with Resilience and Community

Running a small business is never without its challenges, and Move Studio has seen its share of obstacles. Over the years, the studio has relocated multiple times—each move prompted by unforeseen circumstances, including three major floods that forced complete renovations. Despite these hurdles, the studio remains a steadfast presence, driven by a mission far greater than profit.

“This business isn't a huge moneymaker, and that’s okay,” the owner shares. “As long as I can pay the rent and keep this community alive, that’s all that matters. Move Studio is a home for so many of us, and finding a space that aligns with our vision while staying within budget has been one of the biggest challenges. But we always find a way.”

Breaking Down Barriers to Movement

One of the biggest misconceptions people have about Move Studio—or any movement-based space—is the idea that you need to be fit, flexible, or experienced to walk through the door. “I hear it all the time: ‘I’m not flexible, I can’t do yoga.’ But that’s how you become flexible—by doing yoga! Or people worry about not having the right clothes or not fitting in. But the moment they step inside, they exhale and realize, ‘Oh, this is different.’”

The studio fosters an atmosphere of complete acceptance. “You don’t have to be anything other than who you are. Our students—our ‘movers’—support one another, offering guidance and encouragement. Whether it’s suggesting the right weights or simply offering a warm smile, it’s a collective effort.”

Creating a Space That Feels Like Home

So what makes Move Studio feel so welcoming? It’s not just the friendly faces—it’s the thoughtful details that shape the experience.

“When you walk in, you’ll be greeted. If I’m not at the door, I’ll be there shortly. And then I’ll say, ‘Come here, we’ve got tea. Sit, relax.’ We have everything you might need—feminine products, essential oils, cozy lighting, candles, and plants. Everything is designed to make you feel at home.”

Beyond the physical space, the community itself plays a huge role. “The Movers here are incredible. They make sure newcomers feel comfortable, and that’s what creates this warm, inviting energy.”

More Than Just Classes—A True Community

Move Studio isn’t just about movement; it’s about fostering relationships and keeping the community strong. “We do more than just classes. We host social events—like bowling nights and dance parties—because connection matters. We even did a mini retreat in North Vancouver with cold plunges, hot tubs, and a big feast together. These moments keep the vibe high and bring everyone closer.”

To keep people engaged, the studio also hosts fun challenges. “Right now, we’re doing a February challenge—move every day for 28 days. It doesn’t have to be here, just move your body. It’s about staying connected to movement in a way that works for you.”

How to Get Started

For those curious about Move Studio, the best way to dive in is through the two-week trial for $45, which offers unlimited classes in-studio and online.

“When you visit www.movenewwest.com, check out the ‘New to Move’ tab. That’s where you’ll find everything you need to get started. And you’ll know right away if this is the right place for you. If not, I’ll even help you find another studio—there’s so much in New West!”

Move Studio is more than a place to work out. It’s a space where people connect, move, and grow together. As the owner puts it best: ‘We’re connecting community through movement.’

Check out all of our local New Westminster Events

March 01, 2025

🥎 Pickleball Doubles League 2025 Winter Season – 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

⚽️ Soccer School - Registration Begins – 10:00 AM

🗣️ English Conversation Circles – Saturday Sessions – 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM

💎 New Westminster Scavenger Hunt – 11:00 AM

👜 New West Craft – 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

🎨 Hand Painted Fabric – 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM

🏙️ Our City, Our Homes – 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

🏺 Artisan Thrift and Flea Market – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

🍩 B2B + Donuts – 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM

🚲️ Youth Cycle Express: $2 Drop-in for Youth – (For youth ages 13 - 18) 4:00 PM to 4:45 PM

🎭️ Poetry Flood Night – 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

🕺 Saturday Dance Party at Georgie's – 10:00 PM to 1:00 AM

🕹️ Fighting Game Night – Phantom Alley

March 02, 2025

💎 New Westminster Scavenger Hunt – 11:00 AM

🍩 B2B + Donuts – 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM

⛸️ Public Skate – 1:15 PM to 2:45 PM

🧘 Yang Tai Chi 24 form – 2:00 PM

👪️ Parent and Child Sound Bath – 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM

🏈 Sunday and Monday Night Football – at the Terminal Pub

💰️ Heart of the Matter online AUCTION (Feb 15 to Mar 09) – Royal City Rotary Club

March 03, 2025

🧘 Peace, Be Still Monday Meditation – 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM

💎 New Westminster Scavenger Hunt – 11:00 AM

👶 Mom + Baby Meet Up at Cove Indoor Play – 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

🏈 Sunday and Monday Night Football – at the Terminal Pub

🧩 Puzzle Mondays at Steel and Oak – Starts at 5:00 PM

🕺 Hip Hop Adult – 5:45 PM to 6:45 PM

🥍 Doug Hazelwood Memorial Skills Clinic – 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

🎶 New West Community Choir – 6:45 PM to 8:45 PM

🎙️ Begbie's Open Mic – 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM

🏈 Sunday and Monday Night Football – at the Terminal Pub

The B.C. government appears unlikely to allow Surrey’s request to withdraw from Metro Vancouver’s 2050 Regional Growth Strategy if such an exit is even legally possible.

Municipal Affairs Minister Ravi Kahlon avoided directly answering whether the province would approve Surrey’s request but emphasized the need for collaboration. His office stated that the ministry is currently “exploring the legalities” of Surrey’s motion. However, the ministry hopes all parties can work together to address concerns rather than pursue withdrawal.

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke argues that Metro Vancouver’s costs and expectations are unfair and do not align with her city’s needs. Her council has called for the regional district to focus on core services like water, sewer, and solid waste management.

New Westminster Mayor Patrick Johnstone, however, believes Surrey is asking for something that isn’t legally possible. He pointed out that B.C.’s Local Government Act requires municipalities to abide by a regional growth strategy once adopted. He also dismissed Surrey’s concerns about Metro Vancouver’s role, stating that the regional district’s responsibilities—such as planning, air quality, parks, and affordable housing—are assigned by the province.

The debate comes as concerns over Metro Vancouver’s rising costs and governance structure gain attention, particularly following a $2.86 billion cost overrun at the North Shore wastewater treatment plant. Some Metro Vancouver directors, including Maple Ridge Councillor Ahmed Yousef, argue that if the province expects municipalities to carry out these regional objectives, it should provide more financial support.

For now, Surrey’s attempt to withdraw from the Metro 2050 plan faces significant legal and political hurdles, with the province signaling that cooperation, not separation, is the preferred path forward.

Each year, Canadians lose an estimated $100 million to scams. From phishing schemes to identity theft and banking fraud, scammers continue to find new ways to steal money and personal information. To help the community stay informed and protected, Family Services of Greater Vancouver is hosting a Frauds and Scams Workshop.

This free session will cover how to recognize scams, prevent identity theft, and respond if you become a victim. The workshop will take place on Thursday, March 6, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, available in person at the Main Branch Auditorium and online via Zoom.

Registration is required, and all virtual attendees will receive a Zoom link before the event. The session will not be recorded for later viewing. To sign up and learn more, visit the New Westminster Public Library’s events calendar at nwpl.ca/events.

⛈️ Rain Joke of the Day 🌧️ 

🌧️ Why did the rain go to the bar? ☔️ 

🍺 To get a drink that was on the house! 🍸️ 

Groan O' Meter

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