Genni Gunn, a creative writing instructor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, has had her novel, Tracing Iris, made into a film.

The film based on Gunn's book is called The Riverbank, which premiered and opened Sudbury International Film Festival this fall. Filming began in Sudbury, Ontario, in October 2011 and wrapped a month later.

"I had the opportunity to be on set for two days, and it was amazing to see

characters I'd created come to life," said Gunn. "I think the actors are perfectly suited for the roles, and although the film is a much simpler version of the book, it still retains the

very important relationship between a

father and daughter, and explores issues of abandonment."

The Riverbank, whose screenplay was written by Graham Ludlow, stars Kari Matchett (a Gemini award winner) and Kenneth Welsh (four-time Gemini award winner). The story follows Kate Mason, a social anthropologist returning to the emotional crime scene she reluctantly calls home. While Kate mercilessly unearths the remnants of a life littered with evidence of abandonment, lies and loss, she also unravels the coil that binds her to Iris, the mother she never knew.

Gunn has been a faculty member in Kwantlen's creative writing department for more than 20 years.

Student Moro wins Wosk scholarship

Marlissa Moro, a Grade 12 student at North Surrey Secondary, was recognized as one of two Dr. M. Wosk Scholarship recipients for Youth Environmental Leadership at a special event on Nov. 3.

Marlissa has been actively involved in the Catching the Spirit program for the last six years. She was selected for the award because of the environmental leadership role she has undertaken in her community and the region.

Since the age of six, Marlissa has volunteered in the regional parks system. She got her start volunteering at the hatchery in Tynehead Regional Park alongside her father. Now a peer leader with Catching the Spirit, she has contributed more than 1,000 volunteer hours to the regional parks system.

She shares this love of the environment with Scouts Canada, as Venturer president, Beaver leader and Green Timbers area youth commissioner.

Shrine Fantasy Show coming to Bell

The annual Shrine Fantasy Show promises to "amaze, surprise and entertain the entire family" when it comes to Bell Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, Dec. 8.

That afternoon starting at 2 p.m., the Surrey venue will be a stage for magic, illusions, juggling acts, comedy and more - a showcase of "imagination and showmanship."

For years, the Shrine Fantasy show has toured the country and introduced new acts to thousands of people. Show host/producer Dick Joiner this year welcomes a wide range of performers, including Damien James (ventriloquist), Greg Tarlinas (juggler), Shelson Casavant (a magician showcased during the 2010 Winter Olympics' opening ceremonies).

A portion of show proceeds are given to charity via the Shrine organization. Tickets are $25 at www.iMarktickets.com. For more show details, visit shrinefantasyshow.com.

Open house Nov. 14 at WorkBC in Whalley

An open house at the WorkBC employment services centre in Whalley will happen on Wednesday, Nov. 14 from 1: 30 to 3: 30 p.m.

The event is a chance for people to join staff, government reps and community leaders in celebrating the launch of the centre and its new programs.

Speakers will include Moira Stilwell, Minister of Social Development, Christine Mohr, executive director of Options Community Services, and Ray Hudson of Surrey Board of Trade.

For details, call 604-584-0003. To RSVP, email corog@options.bc.ca.

Twitter @tomzillich