Norden the Magician

What is magic? 

There are so many styles of magic out there that it’s really hard to pinpoint. Magic is the illusion of seemingly impossible feats. It’s a performing art, in which audiences are mesmerized by a series of tricks. Magic is effects created through the belief of supernatural means. 

Putting it all together, magic is ‘special effects meant to entertain the audience.’

It’s practiced deception.

As magic is one of the oldest performing arts in the world, shouldn’t we all feel a certain obligation to know a little bit? Many have argued that parents should encourage their children to learn a few magic tricks. Magic is said to improve self esteem and helps to developing acting skills. Magic can play a pivotal role in lateral thinking, and often it works to make one more socially aware. 

These are all fabulous reasons to get a few tricks under your belt at a young age, but what if a grown man suddenly discovers that magic is his calling?

This is the story of Norden, and a hobby that became a passion and then a much loved profession.

It almost seems fitting that Norden discovered a love of magic at one of the most magical places on earth. In the year 2000, Norden and his wife took a life changing trip down to Disneyland. After a few days of exploring the happiest place on earth, Norden wandered into Mickey’s Magic Shop on Main Street, just to waste a bit of time while he wife was shopping.

The merchant, Magic Mike, stood behind the counter, demonstrating tricks in order to entertain the customers. Norden was instantaneously enthralled.

He watched the Master intently, paying close attention to every single move Magic Mike made. Norden was determined to uncover the mystery of each illusion and figure out how each demonstrated trick was done. Hours were spent studying movements, gestures, gaze, distractions and assorted props. 

Each new demonstration brought about both amazement and bewilderment. Lucky for Norden, each trick had a price tag.

Floating Card? Norden bought the trick.

Vanishing Coin? Norden bought the trick.

Ace of Spades in your pocket? Norden bought the trick.

Time and time again, Norden threw down his credit card, eager to learn and even more eager to master. He left Disneyland with an overabundance of magic books, plus enough tricks to keep himself busy for the next few years. This fascination didn’t stop in Disneyland though. Once Norden was back from vacation, he became a daily regular in the magic shops. He gained the trust of local merchants, and was then mentored by many in the magic community. Practice makes perfect and Norden’s skills improved each day. 

It’s hard to blame him. Magic is mesmerizing.

Regardless of age, we can’t help but be entertained when someone pulls a quarter out of our ear or produces a colourful scarf from a seemingly empty hat.  We have all fallen prey to the ooohs and ahhhs affiliated with the captivation of vanishing acts, escape feats, levitation and being sawed in half. For many of us, we can’t figure out how these illusions were accomplished. We know that our eyes were deceived, but the majority of us rarely venture further trying to figure it all out. Magic is a mystery.

The allure of magic absorbed Norden. Channeling his inner child, as well as his inner Houdini, Norden began to amaze friends and family at every opportunity. He started by learning simple tricks, and then worked his way up to more complex illusions.

His first show was for his niece. Uncle Mike the Magician took the stage.

It wasn’t long before word of mouth worked its own magic and offers began to filter in, such as birthday parties, Cub Scout meetings and elementary school performances. There are definitely moments at the beginning of Norden’s career, where he looks back on performances and cringes with regret. His wife and biggest fan, Nicole, always accompanied Norden along to his stage performances, endlessly supportive and always encouraging him to continue on.  The book Silly Billy changed his magic life and everything seemed to go up from there. Norden learned the power of pack small, play big. Hauling around a heavy tickle trunk jam packed with propaganda was fun, but not efficient. He learned which tricks worked for which age groups and how one of his best stage props was just to be silly.

His rubber chicken, Rufus, definitely got Norden some media attention and it was through this magical partnership that he caught the attention of the International Brotherhood of Magicians.  Connecting with like minded individuals took his magical talent to a whole new level and Norden became club president the following year.  Leaving the city, Norden began the Fraser Valley International Brotherhood of Magicians in 2013, with 65 magicians, and is still an active member today.

“Being able to perform magic has had a enormously positive effect on my life,”

Norden admits. “I can walk into any crowd of people and instantly become the life of the party.”

Magic is a universal language and is thoroughly enjoyed by everyone. 

Norden has been the recipient of Child Entertainer of the Year not once, but thirteen times. Though predominantly known as a children's magician, Norden possesses an artistic talent and a unique sense of humour that proves to keep adults equally as enchanted.

There is no one as humorous, charming, funny and magic, all at the same time.

The last year has been a struggle. The restrictions implemented due to the COVID-19 outbreak have forced limited gatherings and the cancellation of parties and festivals around the world. The art of magic has almost vanished in a puff of smoke.

“As a magician, I am very limited to what I can do online,”

Norden says.

A magician’s job is to give the audience the illusion that absolutely nothing is impossible. The pure wonderment of magic works to make your worries disappear. That’s what this talented magician is set on accomplishing.

We can’t let the art of magic become a vanishing act.

Can Dance

For the majority of us, we have been given fairly clear guidelines to follow through this pandemic. We have all become accustomed to wearing masks, sanitizing everywhere we go and washing our hands too often.

Even gyms and leisure centres have either closed their doors or limited the amount of people permitted in at one time.

But what about the dance studios?

They seem to have been left without direction.

“No one has ever told us what to do,” says Debbie, owner of Can Dance in Downtown Mission.

COVID-19 has certainly taken its toll on everyone and Can Dance has suffered its disastrous effects in more ways than one.

Tears and confusion played a major role, as they initially shut its doors in March. 

“For the first time since we opened, there were no children around.”

Trying to manoeuvre a seemingly unmaneoverable situation, this downtown dance studio attempted everything from 8-foot dance squares to online instruction. Children were left waiting outside in the cold, devoid of the usual change rooms and bathrooms - normal amenities that are required for a dance studio. Health and safety had always come first and of course, now, it is of utmost importance.

“We have to do everything we can to keep the kids safe and healthy,” says Debbie.

Debbie started her dancing career at the young age of three. It wasn’t always an easy road, and she faced many challenges, as she was born with a club foot. It was believed that ballet would work to stretch her bones and muscles out and it worked. In fact, it worked so well that Debbie developed a passion for dancing and the more she learned, the more confidence the exercise brought her.

As she grew and her dancing improved, Debbie eventually moved into advanced classes of jazz, tap and lyrical, and eventually had the astounding opportunity to begin teaching the art of dance at the age of thirteen.

Winning choreography competitions with scores of 100%, Debbie was teaching full programs at the Abbey Dance Factory, by the time she was sixteen years old.  Branching out to other studios gave her the experience, the proper training and the confidence necessary to open her own studio. Although she was still very young, she knew it was the right time.

In 1989, Debbie hit up every bank for a commercial loan, but was met with slamming doors.  No one was willing to invest in a nineteen year old with a dream. When she finally found a private investor who offered her a loan with 27% interest, she jumped at the opportunity immediately and hit the ground running.

Debbie’s dream is still alive. 

Thirty two years later, Debbie has had the privilege of seeing some of her students go on to Broadway, perform in Europe, dance on cruise lines and some have even gone on to become teachers themselves.

Can Dance is a dance studio… but it’s not always about the dance. 

It’s more than dance.

“There have been kids that have come to me from all walks of life,” Debbie explains. “Kids that are lost and feel they have no real purpose in life.”

  

Debbie has contributed a significant amount of her time to help these kids keep their dreams alive. Over the years, Debbie has brought in specialists such as new teachers, art therapists, social workers, youth care workers and psycologists. Anyone that can help to develop these kids in to amazing adults is welcome through the door.

“I want to see them to fulfill their goals,” she says, knows that her purpose is to always put the kids first. The Studio has always been a location where the kids come first. Community second. Dance third.

Online instruction has been difficult, as the studio has always been such a social atmosphere. It has been a challenge to try and make the adjustments, and the kids definitely miss the daily interaction. 

Opening at less than half capacity was hard as well. Turning away students was something Debbie had never faced before. The Studio remains closed for the time being, but Debbie is confident that they will endure this devastating time and come back stronger than ever before.

“There will always be kids and there will always be dance,” says Debbie. “And I will be here with open arms when this is all over.”

Manny Deol - Royal le Page Wheeler Cheam

Meet Manny Deol… devoted father, faithful husband, proud son, prestigious business owner, passionate realtor… and also, lifetime Mission resident who loves his community. Having lived in Mission his entire life, Manny is quick to recognize and showcase how caring and welcoming our community really is.

Humble beginning found Manny starting out by packing fruit at BC Frozen Foods, stocking the milk shelves of Walmart and getting the occasional gig doing mall security,  Manny knew his passion lie in real estate.  Once his education was complete, with his professional license in hand, Manny set out in to the real estate world determined to be successful.  He now openly acknowledges that the early days were a struggle.

“I was a young punk with long hair,” he remembers with a mischievous smile. “I had to cut it off and smarten up if I was going to be taken seriously by anyone.”

What followed were long hours of hard work that didn’t guarantee instant success and Manny found it difficult to remain focused and optimistic.  He concentrated much of his free time on prospecting, social relations and business building.   

“My dad worked in the mill all his life, but had a fascination and a talent for construction. He would usually build one or two houses every year.” 

Manny talks about his father’s accomplishments with admiration, putting much emphasis on the fact that these skills and knowledge gained, working with his father, has helped him become a better realtor.

“It wasn’t until late in my fathers career that he decided to go for his real estate license as well.”

The real break came when Manny and his father collaborated with the “Deol Group.”  Promotional photos of father and son hit the community in various forms of advertisement, representing both sides of the generational gap, as well as providing a facade of mentorship. Regardless of the fact that both Realtors were novices in their field, these photos gave Manny instant credibility.

Years later now, Manny currently works at Royal le Page Wheeler Cheam, and his reputation often precedes  him.  Manny is not only a Medallion Club member, but a multi-award winning REALTOR, with over 10 years of experience buying, selling and building homes. His sales consistently rank in the top 5% of REALTORS in the Fraser Valley, 

“Being a real estate agent you come to realize that everyone is on a different journey,” Manny confesses. “You tend to become part-time counsellor, part-time life coach, and part time mentor.”

Many real estate agents gain great satisfaction in knowing they helped people through major times in their lives and Manny offers an unmatched devotion to clients.

 

“I don’t sell real estate,” Manny admits. “I sell my community.”

Community is important at all times, though especially during a global pandemic. Manny knows that being a part of a community can make us feel as though we are a part of something greater than ourselves.  He often finds himself taking prospective clients on a scenic tour of our small town, showcasing the charming aspects of our community, his particular favourite being our very own breathtaking Fraser River Heritage Park. 

Time and time again, Mission has shown itself to be welcoming and friendly.  Working in real estate here can be very rewarding for people like Manny, who have an unparalleled passion for giving back.  As 2018 and 2019’s Volunteer of the Year, he donates much of his time and resources to local small businesses, non-profits and community events.  

In addition to being an active and enthusiastic community member, he is a Director on the board of both Mission Community Futures and the Mission Downtown Business Association. He acts as Government liaison for both the Mission Chamber of Commerce and the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, as well as being an active member of the Mission Sikh community.

“I like to keep busy.  I thrive on multitasking.”

Manny lights up when he reminisces about the good old days in Mission or when he remarks how wonderful it is to raise his young family here.  The community should be prepared to see many more great things in this realtor’s future. 

Anyone that has ever heard of Manny knows that Manny knows Mission.

It’s a Mission thing… and this is a great Mission guy.

Shangrila Farms

A new addition to our community is Shangrila Farms. Set in the outskirts of Mission, up the end of Sylvester Road, you will encounter this enchanting little utopia.

Much to Mission’s surprise and delight, they decided to open up their beloved 10 acre garden property to the public this year. From August 15th until September 30th, they are proud to present the first annual Dahlia and Grape Festival.

Their website boasts a natural paradise garden where one can experience a deep connection to the energy of nature.

Photo Credit - Ellen Nguyen

First hearing of this location, and having only seen a handful of promotional photos, we were intrigued, yet quite unsure as to what to expect.  We arrived with hardly any preconceived notion of what our early morning staycation would entail. 

Implying that it is a festival doesn’t really do it justice. I would consider it an expression of genius, a celebration of colour and a compilation of unparalleled creativity & imagination.

Photo Credit - Ellen Nguyen

Description debate aside, this little oasis has all the fixings to be the start of something quite exciting.

Upon arrival, we strolled though row upon row of vibrant flowers. The path is well marked and we happened upon painted gnomes, timber bird houses and moon gates erected of climbing vines. We encountered unique sculptures of dragons and roosters, made up of clusters of flowers, foliage and twigs. There was also the occasional hay-stuffed scarecrow and toy-soldier characters protecting the garden paradise.

It was a peaceful, almost harmonious setting.

Shangrila Farms is a true photographer’s dream… especially early in the day, with the morning dew still resting on the pedals.

Photo Credit - Ellen Nguyen

Our journey lead us through archways of grape vines and over bridges of lily pad ponds, very similar to that of a Monet painting.

Despite the overwhelming beauty and allure… it definitely had its moments of odd.

Eccentric.

Bizarre.

Leaving the Dalia fields, we entered in to the wooded area filled designed to embrace an enchanted forest. 

This is where we staggered upon a multitude of hand-crafted twig formations. Many of them were wicker balls, but there was also the occasional monkey cage and variety of step-back-in-time pioneer depictions.

Further in to the woods were enormous, plush teddy bears tied to trees, old tires, discarded bikes, a decrepit dentist chair, as well as three inflatable neon aliens peering out from behind the bushes.

Shangrila Farms is a mix of the Butchart Gardens, Storyland Trails (for anyone in Mission lucky enough to remember that gem) and a number of spectacular Monet paintings.

Now take this primary combination and blend it with a little bit of The Blair Witch Project and Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

Perhaps this concoction is to be expected from the creative?

This family has put a lot of work in to their property and it is unquestionably obvious that it has been a labour of love.

The bizarre only adds to its authenticity and it’s well worth the $12 entrance fee. 

$10 if you’re an early bird.

Take advantage of this garden gem, Mission.

Not to be missed.

Simone Redburn - Community Member

When you move back to your hometown, it’s often easy to fall back into old routines with the same old people. I recently read some advice stating that in order to avoid this, you must do all that you can to involved in your community.

Dive right in.

This particular author suggested that joining local clubs and social groups provides the opportunity to meet new people, cultivate new interests and develop new hobbies. 

One of our fabulous community members did just that when she moved back to our beautiful town.

Simone Redburn.

Simone was born and raised in Mission. Once she graduated, it wasn’t long before she got itchy feet and longed to explore more of what our province had to offer.

Simone relocated to downtown Vancouver, where she worked in adventure travel for 12 years.  

“It was cultural travel,” she says.  “Off the beaten track.”

It was the perfect fit for Simone and her adventurous soul. 

After the birth of her first child, Simone and her husband Ross decided that it was time to make the move back to Mission.

“I wanted to raise my kids in a small town and I wanted them to be closer to family,” Simone admits. “Mission was calling me back.”

Most of the people that live in our community are familiar with Leslie, her mother, who has been a successful real estate agent in our community for years.

Simone liked the lifestyle that being a real estate agent represented and it wasn’t long before she decided to follow in her mother’s footprints and adopt the same profession. Redburn Lockhart Real Estate Group is a local, family run real estate business, owned and operated by not only Simone and her mother, but also by Simone’s husband, Ross.

As quick as Simone was to embrace Mission, our community was also there with open arms, ready to welcome this young family.

Simone joined the afternoon Rotary, the Mission Environmental Stewardship Society and donated much of her free evenings to helping in the kitchen at Hope Central.

In addition to being an active and enthusiastic participant with these organizations and raising three young children, Simone runs the annual Terry Fox Run, organizes the annual Festival of Lights and hosts the Hatzic community garage sale and pancake breakfast each year.

Her years of dedication to the community and her hours of community service have not gone unrecognized. This year, the District of Mission awarded Simone a Community Service award. Her reputation precedes her and everyone in town knows that if Simone is involved with an organization or an event, it is certain to be a success. Her energetic and positive disposition tends to be contagious.

Simone has the ability to combine her adoration of our small town, her love of local art and her passion of working with members of our community with her real estate business, Selling homes to potentially new Mission Residents is something that comes easily to her.

“This is my home and I’m so proud of where I live,” Simone gushes, an enormous grin across her face.

Mission makes Simone light up and, in turn, Simone makes Mission light up.

Our community is lucky to have her as an integral part of our team.

Terrella Energy Systems

When I found out that Mission had a material fuel cell operation in town, I have to admit that I was confused.

A what?

What’s that?

I was forced to do a little bit of research of my own. 

Terrella Energy Systems is a developer of lightweight, corrosion resistant, and thermally efficient graphite structures for use in fuel cells, thermal products, and a variety of eco-friendly heat generating energy systems. Terrella’s forming methods for graphite allows unique shapes and features while taking full advantage of graphite’s superior properties that can out-perform metals with properties such as conductivity and corrosion resistance.

Basically… it’s the stuff that goes in a battery.

Recently, I spoke with John Kenna, president of Terrella Energy Systems. John began his career with Ballard Power Systems, which is a developer and manufactures of proton exchange membrane fuel cell products. Along the way, developed a fascination for material fuel cell. 

Terrella Energy Systems was on the horizon!

Mission was an attractive location for the start up of this new endeavour and John liked what our small community offered. Although he is predominantly based out of his Vancouver office now, John gave us some insight in to the decisions made to manufacture in Mission, an interesting community with much potential.

Mission has the West Coast Express, CP rail, the highway and the river for shipping. There is also the industrial bay close to other businesses that we work closely with.

Community Futures played an integral role in the start up of Terrella Energy Systems and to this day, they have maintained a close relationship. In the beginning, there were alone in their field, but now there are 8-10 different fuel cell companies throughout the Lower Mainland.

It was a struggle starting up and we worked hard to gain visibility,but our hard work paid off and now we are creating jobs and drawing in local talent from all over the Fraser Valley.

The onset of COVID-19 slowed the day to day activity of manufacturing down, which resulted in a loss of jobs. Terrell Energy Systems took advantage of some of the government programs and were fortunate enough not to lose any of their customers. 

With less manufacturing, the team has now been able to concentrate more of their time in to addressing things like utilizing technology to help clean up the environment. 

John is now putting emphasis on cleaner power and I think we all like the sound of that.

Lloyd's Cleaners

Lloyd's Cleaners

When you really look at the art of dry cleaning, it is actually quite fascinating. In contrast to the usual usage of the word ‘dry’, dry cleaning actually uses fluids to remove stains and soils from fabrics. This process is known for its ability to dissolve grease and oils in a way that water cannot. 

Bring it on oil, grease, mustard, red wine, blood and ink!

Lloyd’s special solution to the rescue!

Everyone in Mission knows Lloyd’s Dry Cleaning. This business has been a staple of the downtown core for over 70 years. It is definitely one of our longest running businesses. 

Parminder Gill bought the business in 2017 and suprisingly enough, is only the 4th owner thus far.  She was getting ready to celebrate her third year in the Dry Cleaning business when COVID-19 hit.

“Right now it is just myself and my daughter working,” Parminder admits. “We work hard for our community because we love to help people when we can.”

While a lot of the community has suffered the effects of the global pandemic, Parminder is confident that they can survive anything.

“We have made it this far as a downtown business,” she says.

Parminder walked me through the details of their business and how they are so much more than just a dry cleaning service. Lloyd’s offers a professional seamstress, pick up & drop off services, as well as a $14.99 laundry wash, dry & fold.

In a busy world, it’s a real convenience to be able to drop off your dirty clothes and then pick them up clean and folded.

Thanks for all the great service over the years!

Cheers to Lloyd’s Cleaners.

I think we can all agree on one thing for certain… Lloyd’s Cleaners has the best retro sign in town!