NEW LIBERAL TAX REVEALS DECEIT, ARROGANCE - July 30, 2009

BC Conservative Press Release on the HST

The announcement by the BC Liberals to harmonize the provincial sales tax with the GST, after promising never to do so, is the mark of a deceitful and arrogant government, says BC Conservative Party president, Wayne McGrath. McGrath says that the move also reveals a desperate government looking for more and more ways to make up for its colossal blunders and overruns, such as the RAV line, The Vancouver Convention Centre and other Olympic related projects. “The HST is just another way for Premier Campbell to get more money from BC taxpayers. By harmonizing the PST with the hated GST, sales taxes will now apply to goods and services that were previously exempted. It is just another tax grab,” said McGrath.

“I also believe it is a convenient way to take people’s attention off of his scandalous behavior regarding the destruction of emails in the BC Legislature Raid case,” McGrath added.“The fact there has been no internal government investigation into who ordered the destruction of those files tells you volumes about what kind of ethics are emanating from the Premier’s Office.”McGrath says that even though Campbell received a third majority it does not give his government carte blanche to destroy evidence in criminal trials or to levy new taxes during a recession. “This puts the lie to the idea of these Liberals being a fiscally responsible government. You don’t hit people with punitive taxes on goods and services during a slowdown in the economy and expect it to help get us out of the recession. That kind of thinking belongs to socialists, leftists and progressives, not fiscally responsible government. This simply proves what we have contended all along – that the BC Liberals are “big government liberals”, not small ‘c’ conservatives.” “Now you can add duplicitous, deceitful and arrogant to that description as well,” concluded McGrath.

The BC Conservative Party believes that any perceived benefits derived from harmonization could also be achieved with amendments to the PST and without the massive tax increases to BC residents proposed by the BC Liberals. The BC Conservatives would also bring in a single rate of tax on incomes that would be applied only after a basic personal exemption, equivalent to minimum wage, so that low income earners do not pay tax, and working people are able to get ahead by not being taxed in a higher bracket every time they get a raise or work overtime.

For additional information: Wayne McGrath 250.542.7744 nwmcgrath@shaw.ca

Cash incentives for green farmers

Ron Seymour 2009-07-31 Kelowna Herald:

Farmers across B.C can access up to $10 million in the next four years to make environmentally friendly changes to their operations. High-efficiency drip irrigation systems, fences to keep cattle away from streams and improved fuel storage are some of the upgrades that may qualify for financial assistance from the federal and provincial governments.Generally speaking, farmers may expect to recoup about 20 per cent of the extra cost involved in a project deemed to have significant environmental benefits. “That could be the little bit of an incentive that makes a farmer consider that it‘s worth doing,” Agriculture and Lands Minister Steve Thomson said Thursday, as the program was explained during a press conference at St. Hubertus Estate Winery on Lakeshore Road.Winery co-owner Leo Gebert, who has used a similar program in the past, stressed that farmers will still cover the bulk of the cost for any new environmentally friendly equipment or farming procedure.But it‘s still worth doing, he said, because more sensitive farming practices, such as techniques that reduce pesticide use, help to ensure a better environment “for our kids in the future.” Drip irrigation systems, used by about half the farmers in the Valley, cut water consumption on a typical orchard by about 70 per cent. But the systems are expensive to install, compared to overhead sprinklers, and, even with the savings in water charges, it can take eight years for the conversion to pay for itself. With the new government assistance, Gebert estimated that timespan could be reduced to five years.“Water is really the resource we have to cherish and value,” said Kelowna-Lake Country MP Ron Cannan.The assistance program is funded 60 per cent by Ottawa and 40 per cent by Victoria.

Budget borrowing voted down in Dawson Creek

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — Streets won’t be paved, one will remain washed out and a municipal park’s foundation will deteriorate for another year after 10% of Dawson Creek residents voted down a bylaw that would allow the city to borrow $4 million to cover costs for such projects.Mayor Mike Bernier told a council meeting that some of what needs to be done will have to be ‘‘postponed indefinitely’’ after opposition to a borrowing bylaw.He said borrowing money is the most practical way to fund large projects and that the city has used such bylaws for the past 20 years because that’s a regular part of how a municipality funds capital infrastructure projects.‘‘If you had to pay cash that year your taxes would go up 50%,’’ Bernier said. ‘‘It’s not practical. It’s not a way to run a business. It’s not a way to run a city.’’ Bernier said citizens, including those who signed the counter petition, should get involved with the city’s budget process and help shape the outcome.‘‘When we have the budget meetings a very small percentage of people show up and that’s when we’re making decisions that run the community,’’ he said.

Band Says No Plans To Close Road

Fri, 2009-07-31 08:55. Starlee Speers-Vernon105.7 SUNFM:

The City of Vernon can expect a letter from the Okanagan Indian Band's lawyers soon regarding Lakeshore Road. That from Band chief Fabian Alexis who tells Sun FM there are no plans to close or block the road.Vernon Mayor Wayne Lippert says he hasn't spoken to the Band chief or council since May when the band cancelled improvement work to the area.A press release issued by the Band this week reconfirmed its ownership of the road but Lippert says city records dating back to the 1900's prove otherwise.

Band maintains ownership of road

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 30, 2009 6:00 PM

The fate of a Vernon road remains uncertain. The Okanagan Indian Band continues to insist it owns Lakeshore Road from Tronson Road to Vernon Creek, and that it will take “appropriate steps” to protect reserve land from trespass and abuse. “We are looking at all of our avenues including legal. We’re not saying we will do anything yet,” Chief Fabian Alexis told The Morning Star. In late May, the band indicated the road could be shut down, but Alexis would not comment on that possibility. The band has issued letters to the Department of Indian Affairs, the provincial government, the City of Vernon and the RCMP regarding the matter. “We never surrendered ownership,” said Alexis, adding that the band’s case is documented.In a press release, the band council states development of Lakeshore Road never followed legal requirements and a specific claim has been filed with the federal government.“The band’s concerns are exacerbated by the fact that some local residents use the road to gain vehicular access to the band’s Kin Beach, where their conduct has given rise to band concerns for public health, safety and proper land use.”

Vernon’s mayor questions what the band means by “appropriate steps.” “It doesn’t say when or how. It doesn’t give any information to work with or information to work with the band,” said Wayne Lippert. “For us to understand their issues, we need to talk and if they won’t talk to us, that makes it very difficult for us.” While the band states the beach has been abused by the public, Lippert says the city was willing to initiate a $733,000 project at very little cost to the band.“We had an agreement to do some improvements there. When they turned us down, I questioned what their concerns really were,” he said.

The city claims it has authority over the road right-of-way. “The road was a travelled route before 1938 when the reserve was set up. There are documents that show the road was originally known as Lake Drive and that goes back to 1910,” said Lippert.

No changes planned for city intersection

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 30, 2009 6:00 PM

An intersection in Vernon will remain as it is despite some complaints. Council received a report Monday on realignment of 25th Avenue and 27th Street. Within the document, city staff explain why the old stop sign and merge northbound on to 27th have been replaced with a stop sign and north/south turn on to 27th. “It answers a lot of the questions,” said Coun. Bob Spiers of the report. Spiers had heard numerous complaints from residents about the new traffic pattern at the intersection. But staff indicate that the changes to the intersection were a result of 16 accidents over five years. “The previous layout required vehicles exiting 25th Avenue to merge with vehicles already traveling northbound on 27th Street,” said Amanda Watson, transportation technician, in her written report to council. “This often led to inappropriate approach speeds and the drivers exiting 25th Avenue were required to view the directly approaching traffic and check their blind spots, by looking backwards over their shoulder. These factors are known to lead to misjudgments regarding the distance, speed and location of safe gaps in the approaching traffic.” The new alignment requires drivers exiting 25th Avenue to approach 27th Street on a reduced angle and stop. “This reduces the distance over which vehicular conflicts can occur and enables drivers then to simply look to their left to see the oncoming traffic directly and be better able to judge speed and distance,” said Watson.

Spiers wants staff to post the report on the city website (www.vernon.ca). “It’s really good and will answer a lot of questions for our residents,” he said. Coun. Shawn Lee supports the new intersection, saying the former blind spot put motorists at extreme risk. “I’m happy with the changes that have been made there,” he said. And more work is planned for later this year. “The second phase, to widen the shoulder on the east side of 27th Street between Highway 6 and 25th Avenue, is planned to be undertaken October this year,” said Watson. “This final phase will further improve sight lines of the approaching traffic, whilst providing a more bicycle friendly shoulder on this well-used part of the bike network.”

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Don Quixote Note:

The report (to be posted online) will indicate to the concerned citizens the reason for the changes made. The changes that will further improve the sightlines on October will hopefully bring further improvements that will reduce the accidents at this location. I will be asking for an accident update report in spring of 2010 to see if this safety recommended change was warranted.

The staff report that will be posted online at City of Vernon Site can also be found here:

25th Ave and 27th st exit. (STAFF REPORT)

Subdivision slated for Landing site

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 30, 2009 6:00 PM

Resort plans for a contentious Okanagan Landing property have been replaced by blueprints for a subdivision. Vernon council gave two readings Monday to a bylaw that would rezone 9650 Eastside Road from tourist commercial to hillside residential. If rezoning occurs, 120 single and two-family units will be built on the 25 acres. “What we will build is attainable houses people can afford,” said developer Craig Stowe. This isn’t the first time that Stowe has been before council.

In 2007, he attempted to have the former Paraiso Point campground rezoned from tourist commercial to resort residential to allow for a 100-unit project. However, considerable debate surfaced in the community and the council-of-the-day decided to delay a decision on that rezoning application until the official community plan review was done.Stowe never pursued the resort plans after that, and has now decided to construct a subdivision known as Edgepoint.“The OCP has communicated what the community wants,” he said. “The community wants small footprint houses and greenspace.”There would also be a trail system and a recreational facility with a pool and children’s play area.

But some concerns are already being raised about the proposal. “It’s like an alley and now we’re going to have more development there,” said Coun. Shawn Lee of Eastside Road. “It’s a very narrow road out there. I’m all for development on that slope but we need to look at infrastructure.” Stowe, though, says a traffic study has been done.“There is enough capacity on the road for this development,” he said.

The rezoning application will be the focus of a public hearing Sept. 14. “I want to hear what people out there feel about it,” said Coun. Bob Spiers. Coun. Jack Gilroy is quick to point out that no final decision has been made on the development and first and second reading of the bylaw is procedural. “It doesn’t mean we accept the development. It means it will go to public hearing,” said Gilroy.

Band Asserts Title On Road

Glen Morrison Thursday, 30 July 2009 10:05 1o7.5 KISSFM:

The Okanagan Indian Band has fired another verbal shot in the dispute over Lakeshore Road in Okanagan Landing. The land dispute had been quiet for almost two months after the band had threatened a closure over concerns about area residents using the road to get onto the band owned beach.The City of Vernon says it has multiple documents that claim there's been a road there and right of way since the late 1800's. In a statement, Band Chief Fabian Alexis (pictured) is again asserting legal ownership of the roadway adding the band has filed a specific claim with the government of Canada seeking a resolution to the problem.He says their concerns are exacerbated by some local residents using the road to gain vehicle access to the Band's Kin Beach where their conduct has raised public health and safety concerns.Alexis ends the statement by saying the band will take 'appropriate' steps to protect their reserve land from trespass and abuse.

Mayor Wayne Lippert says he's frustrated by the statement, and that the band won't return his calls. "The city of Vernon has offered assistance in that (problems at beach) and we offered to put some significant funds into the infrastructure down there, and they turned us down," Lippert says he wouldn't be surprised if the band staged some sort of action on the road for the upcoming long weekend.

Feds plan to audit eBay marketers

Canwest News July 30:

OTTAWA — Canada Revenue Agency is planning a wave of audits on Canadians who have sold products on the online eBay website marketplace. Revenue Minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn said on Thursday that anyone who has sold products on the website could avoid audits, fines and penalties by voluntarily coming forward and declaring the revenue to the agency. "Taxpayers should know that the tax laws that apply to traditional commerce apply in the same way to electronic commerce, like eBay selling," said Blackburn in a statement. "I strongly encourage eBay sellers, and for that matter, any taxpayer who has not already done so, to correct their tax affairs as soon as possible to avoid penalties or prosecution."Following a recent Federal Court decision, the agency received a list of eBay sellers and their transaction records that will allow them to begin audits by the end of the summer. The agency said it would use the records to determine whether sellers properly reported revenues on their tax returns.

RCMP following provincial directive on Tasers

Edward Hill - Goldstream News Gazette Published: July 30, 2009 9:00 AM

RCMP in B.C. will restrict use of conducted energy weapons, commonly known as Tasers, as requested by the province’s solicitor general.Sgt. Tim Shields with RCMP E division in Vancouver, said all B.C. detachments will abide by Solicitor General Kash Heed’s directive to restrict the use of Taser-type weapons. The order falls out of the recommendations of the Braidwood Inquiry, which was looking into the death of Polish immigrant Robert Dziekanski.Shields said the RCMP is reviewing the 546 page report by retired judge Thomas Braidwood, but it will take time “to realize the full potential impact on RCMP across Canada.”“We don’t want a situation where we have one set of policies in one province that are different from another province,” Shields said. “We are the national police force. The goal is unified polices for the RCMP across the country.”The directive creates a number of thresholds that must be met before police can deploy a Taser, such as if a person is causing bodily harm or imminently causing bodily harm, and lesser force options haven’t or won’t work.

It also said officers equipped with Taser-type weapons must have access to defibrillators. Shields said the RCMP’s conductive energy weapon policy is already largely inline with Heed’s directive. Changed about a year ago, the policy dictates Tasers can only be used to stop a threat to public or police safety, Shields said.“The wording it different but the intent is similar,” he said.

OK Indian Band Reconfirms Ownership of Road

Starlee Speers-Vernon 105.7 SUNFM: 8:54

The Okanagan Indian Band has issued a release stating it will take the appropriate steps to protect their reserve land from trespass and abuse.Chief Fabian Alexis says the Band has officially reconfirmed its ownership of the portion of Lakeshore Rd that crosses Priest's Valley.Alexis states the city of Vernon has betrayed that it knows little about the history or legal status of this road, as neither the Province nor city has acquired legal rights to it.He says the Band is concerned that local residents are using the road to gain access the Kin Beach where the conduct has created problems. Lakeshore road was still open for access as of this morning.

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OKIB Website:

Press Release - Immediate Distribution - OKIB Asserts Ownership of Lakeshore Road. July 27, 2009

Link does not appear to be working yet.

EnCana doubles cash reward to $1 million to help solve Dawson Creek bombings

EnCana Corporation has doubled its offer of a cash reward for helping solve the Dawson Creek bombings. EnCana is offering up to $1 million cash for information directly leading to the arrest and prosecution of the individual or individuals responsible for the recent bombings at EnCana facilities in the Tomslake area near Dawson Creek, British Columbia. The reward, subject to the Terms and Conditions set out below, is intended to encourage anyone with information, including EnCana employees and contractors, help the police solve these crimes, stop any further attacks and help ensure the safety of the communities in and around Dawson Creek.

"We have doubled our reward, now up to $1 million, in the hope that someone will come forward to help solve these crimes. We are very willing to pay $1 million for information that helps stop these bombings and end these threats to the safety of the people in the Dawson Creek communities," said Mike Graham, EnCana's Executive Vice-President & President, Canadian Foothills Division.

"As well, EnCana employees and contractors are now eligible for the reward. We want to remove any barrier that would prevent someone with crime-solving information from coming forward. We have made this change to encourage someone who may have previously been reluctant to share information to now do the right thing and help police solve these crimes," Graham said.

"We have witnessed six bombings of natural gas facilities in the past nine months. Each one is a threat to the safety, well being and peace of mind of our workers, contractors and the people who live in the affected communities. These are violent and dangerous criminal acts. They disrupt the lives of the people who live there and pose a very serious risk of causing injury or even death. The safety of our workers and the people who live in the communities where we operate is of paramount importance," Graham said.

Persons with information about these bombings who want to qualify for the reward are encouraged to contact the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in one of the following ways:

• Telephone the RCMP toll-free at 1 866-994-7473
• Go online by visiting: www.dawsoncreekbombings.com
• Visit: www.encana.com and click on the Dawson Creek bombings link to the RCMP website
• Visit your local detachment of the RCMP

Party on, dude

Public Eye Online July 29:

The provincial government was living it up as the economy was crashing, spending more than half-a-million dollars on parties celebrating civil service excellence. But the government has said those celebrations were necessary to maintain a "high performing workforce" - something that’s "even more important during these challenging times."

And it has no plans to be a party pooper by discontinuing the annual premier’s innovation and excellence awards, which are meant to recognize the "positive impact the BC Public Service’s work is having across the province." According to records exclusively obtained by Public Eye via a freedom of information request, this year’s awards cost $562,741.52.

They included four regional parties and one provincial party, taking place between January 21 and March 26. The biggest ticket item was the $137,414.29 spent on videos showcasing nominees and their accomplishments. But catering and facility costs came in a close second at $125,511.70.

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2008/09 premier's innovation and excellence awards budget forecast:

Total expenses - $587,800.00

2008/09 premier's innovation and excellence awards actuals:

Total expenses - $562,741.52

Under budget by $25,058.48

Main Reason for budget savings:

• Newspaper ads - $0.00 Actual Original Budget $30,000 -("post-ceremony ads announcing Premier's Award recipients in local newspapers. Decision was made not to provide post-ceremony newspaper ads, as a cost-saver due to economic downturn")

• Table chocolates - $10,000.00 Budget: $5,805.85 Actual ("rogers' chocolate squares with gold foil P/A label and dvd's for ceremonies")

Evacuation Order Lifted 8am Thursday

Peter McIntyre Wednesday, 29 July 2009 15:52 105.7 KISSFM:

There's good news for the residents displaced from their homes by the Terrace Mountain Fire.Effective at 8 Thursday morning, the Evacuation Order will be rescinded for approximately 1,000 residents impacted by the wildfire.At that time, people living in the following areas will be allowed to return to their homes but will remain under Evacuation Alert and must be prepared to leave their homes on short notice:

It affects people in • Fintry, • Fintry Delta, • Upper Fintry/Dunwaters Estates and • Valley of the Sun.The Evacuation Order remains in effect for the Fintry High Farms area, affecting 13 residents.

While 85 percent contained, officials say the fire remains active and could flare up.Returning residents will receive an information sheet reminding them that they are returning on Evacuation Alert and should remain prepared as they may have to leave the area again without much notice.Controlled re-entry to the communities will be done by RCMP at the south end of La Casa resort and on the north side at Baziw Orchards.Westside Road will effectively be re-opened totally in both directions at that time.Fintry Provincial Park will remain closed though since it remains a key staging area for Ministry of Forests fire fighting efforts.The Vernon ESS reception centre will be closing Thursday at 5 p.m.....but all those affected by the fire will still receive help through the Mt. Boucherie Secondary School reception centre in West Kelowna.

SUPPORTIVE HOUSING OPENS IN VERNON

VERNON – The Province has provided $1.2 million to purchase and renovate Belvedere Apartments, 17 units of affordable rental housing for people with mental health issues, announced Eric Foster, MLA for Vernon-Monashee. “The Province is partnering with non-profit societies across B.C. to help create supportive housing solutions for those dealing with homelessness,” said Foster. “Through this development, we are giving individuals an opportunity to continue living in the communities where they have family and friends while they receive the support they need.”The total capital cost to purchase and renovate the building, at 1708 – 32^nd St. in Vernon, was $1,249,987. The Province provided funding through the Provincial Homelessness Initiative (PHI), a program that integrates support services with housing to help people move beyond temporary shelter to more secure housing, greater self-reliance and appropriate employment.“Providing safe affordable housing with support services is an important solution to issues facing our city,” said Wayne Lippert, mayor of the City of Vernon. “Our community is committed to working with our provincial partners and local societies to meet the needs of Vernon’s most vulnerable citizens.”

Fire: 85% Contained

Written by Glen Morrison Wednesday, 29 July 2009 10:25107.5 KISSFM:

Another good day on the fire lines Tuesday has allowed crews to increase containment of the Terrace Mountain fire. The Fire Information Office in Kamloops says the fire, which remains mapped at about 4,500 hectares, is now 85% contained.Crews have been able to build 35 kms of control lines around the fire. Officials say rank 1 to 3 fire behaviour was observed on the fire, which is a ground fire with some open flame, and an occasional torching of a tree. With continued hot and dry conditions expected for Wednesday, rank 2 and 3 is expected, which is low to moderately vigorous surface fire behaviour. About 1,000 residents between La Casa, Valley of the Sun and the Fintry area remain on Evacuation Order, while about 3,000 other residents are on an Evacuation Alert.

Questions About New Landing Housing

Written by Peter McIntyre Wednesday, 29 July 2009 10:04 107.5 KISSFM

A Vernon city councillor is concerned about plans for dozens more homes in Okanagan Landing. A company (Ekistics Town Planning) is proposing 120 single and two family housing units at 9650 hundred block of Eastside Road, which has Shawn Lee asking some questions. Lee tells KISS FM, "The future is development on that slope and of course there's going to be more but I'm concerned as a city and planning that we have in place what we're going to do on Eastside Road. It's a wonderful road but historically that was just a little track. It's not meant to take the traffic load that it's even got now."Lee expects to hear if residents also have concerns when a public hearing is held September 14.

City In & Out Of Film Funding

Written by Peter McIntyre Wednesday, 29 July 2009 10:19 107.5 KISSFM

The city of Vernon is keeping its options open when it comes to funding the Okanagan Film Commission.Mayor Wayne Lippert says the city has withdrawn its notice to pull out of the NORD function the end of this year, but issued notice to withdraw at the end of 2010.The mayor tels KISS FM, "The motion is doing two things. It's giving notice to the film commission that the city of Vernon does support them. I think in all fairness it's trying to make sure the funding is there at least from the city of Vernon's side of things. Lippert says the motion also recognizes NORD has had issues with some of its functions. He notes NORD has 69 functions when many other regional districts only have ten. The mayor says the city provided $20,000 of the $35,000 NORD granted the film commission last year. The commission works to attract film and TV productions to the valley.

B.C. fast ferries sold to UAE buyer

CBC NEWS:

British Columbia's three fast ferries have been sold to Abu Dhabi Mar, a yacht-building company based in the United Arab Emirates, said its previous owners North Vancouver-based Washington Marine Group. The details of the transaction are confidential, but Washington Marine Group said the PacifiCat catamaran vessels will be moved from Vancouver harbour by deep-sea vessel. The first ferry is to be transported next month. The controversial ferries cost the B.C. NDP government about $450 million to build in the late 1990s, and were supposed to provide speedy service between Vancouver and Nanaimo, on Vancouver Island.But the vessels were taken out of service after being plagued by mechanical problems and concerns about the large wake they caused. They were dry-docked for years until the B.C. Liberal government sold to the Washington Marine Group for about $19 million.

Cherry dumping raises MP’s ire

By JOHN MOORHOUSE Wednesday, July 29, 2009 Penticton Herald:

The federal government should move to stop the dumping of Washington cherries into the Canadian market, says B.C. Southern Interior MP Alex Atamanenko. Although there is a bumper crop this year, Okanagan cherry growers have been hit hard amid allegations that Washington state growers are flooding the market with bargain-priced cherries. Cherry production in Washington is up 30 to 50 per cent, resulting in a flood of cherries onto the world market. As a result, it is predicted that cherry prices for B.C. producers will be 40 to 60 per cent lower than a year ago. Atamanenko, the NDP agriculture critic, has written federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz urging him to take action, even if it means risking trade action under NAFTA. “Trade deal or no trade deal, the U.S. wouldn‘t hesitate to slap a tariff on our produce if it meant protecting their producers,” he said. “It‘s time for us to do the same.” Atamanenko said if the U.S. goes to NAFTA‘s trade dispute tribunal to appeal, so be it. Rather than always following by the rules, Ottawa should take more immediate measures. “What we have to do the next time this happens is to slap tariffs on at the border and stop these cherries – or apples -- from coming in.” he said. “We probably won‘t be able to save this year‘s crop, but in the future we‘ve got to have some kind of mechanism that won‘t allow (U.S.) produce to come in at a low price and undercut our farmers.”

The flooded market‘s impact on Okanagan cherry growers has been dramatic. Naramata grower Rob Van Westen said the packing house won‘t even accept smaller size cherries. The Lapin variety of cherries, in particular, was especially hard hit. Van Westen, who operates three acres of Lapins in his Boothe Road orchard, said he has been forced to leave much of the fruit hanging on the tree to rot. Cull rates could be as high as 40 per cent. “We‘re salvaging whatever we can. We‘re just chasing big cherries and leaving little ones on the trees,” he said. Whereas last year, growers received up to $1.80 a pound, Van Westen said this year he‘d consider himself lucky to receive a dollar a pound. Prices for later varieties, such as Sweethearts, will likely be somewhat higher. Atamanenko described the situation as a tragedy for Okanagan cherry growers. The MP said consumers can do their part by insisting on B.C. cherries at the grocery store. Despite the abundance of local fruit, some super market chains have featured Washington cherries on their shelves.

Highway landscaping approved

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 28, 2009 7:00 PM

A blight on the landscape is ready for transformation.Vernon council has given the green light to landscaping of Highway 97 between the weigh scale and Stickle Road. It’s anticipated that the project will take place between Sept. 10 and Oct. 8.“There is a need for us to beautify the north end,” said Coun. Buffy Baumbrough of the dead trees and grass lining the highway.“We have received so many calls and e-mails that we need to do something. It’s the gateway to our north end and people are being welcomed with a mess.” Ministry of Transportation approval is required because the right-of-way is provincial property, but city officials are confident that will occur.

To fund the initiative, the city will take $120,000 out of the road reserve and $110,500 from the casino reserve. Swan Lake Nurseryland is donating $130,000 and $500 a year will come from the BX-Swan Lake electoral area because that section of highway is located in the regional district and not the city. “It’s the community coming together and it’s refreshing to see Mike Gavinchuk (BX-Swan Lake director) come on board,” said Mayor Wayne Lippert.As part of the project, the city will also try to develop an agreement with Gavinchuk to cover the costs of irrigation water.The provincial government used to maintain landscaping along the highway but that came to an end in 2003 because of budget cuts. Since then, local jurisdictions have debated whether they should take over landscaping. “It’s a type of downloading,” said Lippert of the city funding something that’s a provincial responsibility.

“But it comes down to community pride and community pride dictates we look after it.”

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Picking up the slack Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star

There was some question Monday as to whether the Ministry of Transportation will approve the City of Vernon landscaping Highway 97 from Stickle Road to the weigh scales. But I think the answer is known already.Of course it’s going to say yes to the city, the regional district and Swan Lake Nurseryland spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on land it abandoned years ago. And how the highway corridor became a wasteland of dead grass and weeds is a crucial part of the issue that’s been forgotten. It was back in 2003 that the Ministry of Transportation walked away from funding roadside maintenance because of budget cuts. That meant that any infrastructure invested on the right-of-way — whether it was trees, shrubs or irrigation lines — was left to rot. Ultimately, Victoria was deciding that it was no longer responsible for land that it owns.

No sooner did that occur and concerns were being raised locally about the state of the landscaping and the negative impact on Vernon’s image. It became a regular bone of contention for then-councillor Barry Beardsell. “It still looks like a dump out there. It’s absolutely atrocious,” he told council in 2004.Because the corridor is actually outside of Vernon’s boundaries, attempts were made to get then-electoral area directors Cliff Kanester and Stan Field to help fund improvements. But the BX boys refused, saying that it wasn’t up to their taxpayers to pay for a provincial responsibility.

Fast-forward to today, and Vernon Mayor Wayne Lippert shares those past concerns. “It’s a type of downloading,” he said of the city forking out $230,000 for landscaping, while $130,000 will come from Swan Lake Nurseryland and $500 a year from BX-Swan Lake residents. “But it comes down to community pride and community pride dictates we look after it.”

And obviously I understand why they are picking up the ball. The corridor is a horrible mess and tourists must wonder if the town is worth exploring after seeing the dead zone.It should also be pointed out that this isn’t the first time area jurisdictions have taken over funding key initiatives when the province turned the taps off. Countless dollars are collected every year in local property taxes in the North Okanagan so the Ministry of Health doesn’t have to pick up the full tab of hospital expansions or for purchasing medical equipment. The City of Vernon has also ventured into social services in the last few years, directing cash towards the Women’s Centre and property for affordable housing. There once was a time when the provincial government contributed towards milfoil weed control in the lakes, but Okanagan municipalities and regional districts took over 100 per cent of the program many years ago. The City of Vernon must also maintain 27th Street as a local service road although it is a significant link between two provincial highways.

Government downloading has become so common that it should be designated as an Olympic sport in 2010. Ultimately, there was little choice for the City of Vernon and Gavinchuk to accept responsibility for the Highway 97 corridor, and Swan Lake Nurseryland deserves considerable praise for taking an active role in the community.But as part of the upgrades, a small portion of the barren landscape should be left for everyone to see. And within it, there should be a giant sign saying, “This mess is brought to you by the B.C. government. To lodge a protest, call Premier Gordon Campbell or Vernon-Monashee MLA Eric Foster.”

City council takes axe to heritage tree regulations

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 28, 2009 7:00 PM

Proposed regulations for heritage trees have been cut off at the roots. Vernon council refused Monday to accept a recommendation from the environmental advisory committee that would have forced anyone wanting to cut down a heritage tree to hire an arborist first. They would have also faced “a significant fine” if a tree was removed without the permission of the city. “This has a feeling of interference I’m not comfortable with,” said Coun. Shawn Lee. “I think we need to do something to make it desirable for people to preserve trees. Is there another way? I think this is very heavy-handed.” A heritage tree is considered to be more than 30 years old.Opposition to the recommendation also came from Coun. Mary-Jo O’Keefe.

The advisory committee had recommended that anyone wanting to remove or significantly alter a heritage tree would have to hire an arborist and provide a report to the city showing the tree is hazardous and must be taken out. “The majority of the committee members felt heritage trees are worthy of protection in the community,” said Coun. Buffy Baumbrough, committee chairwoman. “Heritage trees have a particular value in our community. They act as landmarks, they add to the community aesthetically and they add habitat values.” While regulations have been shot down, city staff has been instructed to complete an inventory of heritage trees on public and private property.

More firefighters denied

Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 28, 2009 7:00 PM

A proposal to bolster firefighting ranks has been left to smoulder.Vernon council has shot down the hiring of two additional firefighters because the request from administration came months after the 2009 budget was approved.“The budget process has started as we speak for 2010. We need to set this aside and look at the budget process,” said Coun. Patrick Nicol.Nicol added that there are significant financial pressures facing the city.“Dealing with these things in isolation is not what we should be doing when dealing with the budget.” The annual salary for a firefighter would be $57,200, but the total bill jumps to $70,356 when corporate costs are considered. Because 2009 is well underway, the cost for both positions for the rest of the year would be $46,904. The information presented by fire chief Jeff Carlisle will become part of the 2010 budget discussions, but opposition came from Coun. Buffy Baumbrough. She wanted the firefighters hired now.“It significantly reduces our overtime and the money we’re paying out for overtime is offset,” she said.

Carlisle had asked council for the two extra firefighters when the 2009 budget was being developed in the spring but that request was denied at that time. He says he resubmitted his report now because it had been suggested to him that the matter could be reconsidered part way through the year. To maintain a minimum duty strength of five firefighters per shift, overtime costs have soared. They went from $112,000 in 2007 to $185,000 in 2008 and there was a 19 per cent hike during the first quarter of this year. “They (two new staff) will allow our firefighters to take their time off and train,” said Carlisle. “This will not eliminate overtime but it will go a long way to manage the situation.” Carlisle says maintaining a minimum duty strength of five becomes difficult when staff are either ill or on holidays and because of that, he will ask for two new firefighters as part of the 2010 budget. “We’ll see how it fits into the (council) priorities,” he said. “I was told it was good information. They want to include it in the budget process. I don’t take it as a no.” Currently, most firefighters are being compensated for overtime through days off, but some are receiving cash payments.

Coun. Jack Gilroy removed himself from the debate because his son is a city firefighter.

Castanet Poll on Cell Phone use while Driving

Results as at 6 AM July 29

Question: The City of Kelowna supports an RCMP proposal to ban the use of hand held cell phones while driving. Did council go far enough?

Yes. Ban only hand held cell phones

938

No. Ban all cell phones

857

Don`t ban the use of either

458

Total Votes: 2253

Cops arrest bat man

Castanet Staff - Jul 28, 2009

North Okanagan RCMP had to pull a tazer on a man approaching them with a weapon. Vernon RCMP responded to a call of a man fighting with people in a residence in the 12500 block of Westside Road around 2 a.m. Tuesday. RCMP spokesperson, Gord Molendyk says while en route, information indicated that guns were possibly involved. “When the officers arrived, two people from the house told them a man inside the house was intoxicated and wanted to fight with everyone. A few minutes later the police saw the man exit the house and approach them with something in his hands,” says Molendyk. He says the man continued to approach them, holding a bat.

“They produced the Conductive Energy Weapon and demanded that he drop the bat and get down on the ground. At a distance of approx 10 feet away, he complied. The CEW was not deployed and he was arrested without further incident.” Molendyk says the 20-year-old man is expected to appear in court later Tuesday to answer charges of breach of his conditions, as well as possession of weapon dangerous to the public peace. Other charges are also being considered. No firearms were located in the residence.

WEB FIRST: Bodies found in Vernon trailer

Published: July 28, 2009 3:00 PM See Wednesday's Morning Star for further details.

Vernon RCMP and Emergency Response Team personnel have discovered two bodies inside a trailer at an Okanagan Landing mobile home park Tuesday.Police were called to the scene shortly before 10 a.m. with the ERT squad asked to assist after reports of shots fired.Police will confirm that the deceased are the residents of the trailer, a 71-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman, but can't confirm the cause of death at this time.

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Written by Peter McIntyre Tuesday, 28 July 2009 13:44107.5 KISSFM

Vernon RCMP are confirming two people are dead after an incident in Okanagan Landing this morning.Police surrounded a mobile home across from Kin Beach on Lakeshore Road just before 10 after reports of shots fired.Spokesman Gord Molendyk (pictured) says a man in his 70's and a woman in her late 60's were found dead inside the residence.He says it's too soon to say what happened or if it was a murder suicide.Investigators are still on the scene and police will be releasing more details later today.

North End Plan Approved

Written by Peter McIntyre Tuesday, 28 July 2009 10:21

The city of Vernon has given the green light to beautifying the north entrance to the city.The highway landscaping has been neglected since the province stopped funding the service several years ago.Councillor Shawn Lee is delighted something is being done.Lee says, "I'm just thrilled. Since they stopped watering that stretch a a few years ago, everytime I headed out of town I thought this is sending the wrong message about Vernon."The city will spend $230,500 to landscape the area between Stickle Road and the weigh scales with work scheduled to run September 10 to October 8. BC's Ministry of Transportation still has to give its approval to the plan. $120,000 will come from the Road Reserve and $110,500 from the Casino Reserve. Swan Lake Nurseryland owner Mike Kowaluk has agreed to provide $130,000 in services and products as part of the store's 50th anniversary, while Area B of NORD will donate $500 annually. Lee admits Area B is getting off lightly in the funding but says he's pleased with the rural area's cooperation and support of the project.Councillor Patrick Nicol says the project is "much needed and long overdue." The city and Area B will develop an agreement on the costs to water the landscaped area.

Fire Chief Turned Down

Written by Peter McIntyre Tuesday, 28 July 2009 09:55107.5 KISSFM:

Vernon's fire chief has been told by city council to come back in the fall with his request for more manpower. Jeff Carlisle was seeking funding for two new firefighter-dispatchers outside of the normal budget budget cycle.He says the new staff is needed to manage a 19 percent increase in overtime costs. ($36,464 year to date compared to $30, 543 in 2008). Carlisle told the media, "When you have a staffing level that's 24-7, you have training requirements, long term illnesses, you have a number of different factors, emergencies, where you have to recall people from off duty. All those things impact your overtime budget."

Councillor Patrick Nicol didn't see it as a case needing immediate attention."I think the principle is to be fair to all the (city) departments, and I think there's any number of areas you can look at. One is in the public works department where they are 50 percent over their allotted budget. "The new positions would have added $140,000 dollars to the city payroll, which includes salaries and corporate costs. Council passed a motion to forward the chief's information to the budget process this fall with Councillor Buffy Baumbrough the lone opponent.

According to a report, the city has spent $246, 527 on overtime costs this year, 29 opercent more than the $190, 055 during the same period in 2008.Carlisle says, there will be an operational impact to council's decision saying some firefighters will have to take on additional shifts."We've had to move people's holidays around in order to maintain the minimum (staffing) strength. We've had to move pool firefighters holidays around. We've had to shuffle and things like that."Carlisle told council he has to have a minimum five people on duty 24-7, with a minimum response to calls of four.It's the second time in the last few weeks Carlisle has not been successful with a request to council. In June, council voted 5-2 to keep the downtown firehall as a composite station and the Okanagan Landing Hall as volunteer.

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Kate Bouey-Vernon 105.7 SUNFM:

Vernon's fire chief has lost another battle with city hall. Councillors have decided to put off his request for another two full-time firemen until 2010 budget discussions get underway in the autumn. Chief Jeff Carlisle told council Monday that his overtime budget was huge and growing and that the only way to keep it down would be to add to his staff. Carlisle says he'll be back with the same request in the fall."We'll continue to manage the way we are within our contract with our union and our minimum duty strength.''

Mayor Wayne Lippert says council will look at the matter at the appropriate time."We were close to getting in the budget discussions, there was some good information there, so I think the most appropriate place is at budget time."Council also heard that firefighters responded to 1356 callouts in the first six months of this year.

Stop BC Library Cuts

Background

BC provincial public libraries have not yet received their 2009 annual operating grants from the provincial government, nor have they been told how much money they will be receiving – both of which usually happen earlier in the fiscal year. There have been strong indications that the Province has decided to stop funding libraries and that this funding may be cut from the current and subsequent budgets.

What You Can Do to Help

BC’s public libraries are important to the communities they serve, make sure the BC provincial government knows how you feel about public libraries not yet receiving their 2009 annual operating grants.

To show your support of continued provincial funding for BC’s public library system, please:

• Sign the “Don’t Pull The Plug on Libraries” online petition
• Sign and mail a postcard to the Hon. Premier Gordon Campbell – postcards are available at your local library or you can download a copy here (pdf: 180kb)
• Call or send a letter to your local BC Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) and/or the Minister of Education, Hon. Margaret MacDiarmid
• Send a letter to your local newspaper editor stating your support for continued provincial operating grants for BC public libraries

Vernon golfer cashes in on his way to a date with Tiger

By Brad Ziemer, Vancouver SunJuly 28, 2009 4:14 AM

Before he could even begin to savour his top-10 finish in the RBC Canadian Open on Monday, Vernon's Chris Baryla had to change some travel plans.Baryla was scheduled to head to Columbus, Ohio for this week's Nationwide Tour stop. But a six-under 66 in Monday's rain-delayed final round at Glen Abbey Golf Club changed things.Baryla, who had started the day tied for 43rd, ended up finishing the event tied for eighth. And that top-10 finish makes him eligible to play in this week's Buick Open in Grand Blanc, Mich., where the two-time B.C. Junior champion will tee it up alongside Tiger Woods and 154 other PGA Tour pros."It's a great opportunity and I'm looking forward to it," Baryla said. "It's a tournament with Tiger in it, so it has to be a quality event."

He made $123,037 US for his finish Monday, which tied him with Calgary's Stephen Ames as the low Canadian at Glen Abbey. That is about $3,000 more than Baryla made in his best year on the Nationwide Tour in 2006. His previous biggest payday came in 2007 when he earned $33,600 after losing in a playoff at a Nationwide Tour event."Being low Canadian is a huge achievement for me, absolutely," Baryla said. "It's the difference between thinking that I have the ability and validation, and it's nice to have that validation ... It was kind of a hectic day. I had to play 30 holes today. Basically, I just had time to change my socks and underwear between rounds."Baryla's solid play this week should not come as a surprise. After finally overcoming a serious back injury that made his 2008 season a complete write-off, the 26-year-old has recorded two top-five finishes -- a tie for fourth and a tie for fifth -- in just five Nationwide Tour appearances this year. He currently stands 52nd on the Nationwide money list with earnings of $60,819.Baryla, who was followed Monday by a large gallery of family and friends that included his mom Lorraine and sister Amber, said being healthy again has made all the difference to his game."I feel fantastic," he said. "Since they cleared me to play at the end of last year, I have been trying to put in the time and get the body back in shape and it's starting to pay off. I feel good and feel healthy. I have been playing very well. The game has been progressing nicely."

Minor hockey tournaments could lose out in SOEC ice times debate

Penticton Herald Staff Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Penticton Minor Hockey Association says it may be forced to cancel its host tournaments next season, as it negotiates ice time costs and availability at the South Okanagan Events Centre. PMHA president Bruce Judd said Monday the tournaments could be cancelled to allow for more regular season game time. However, he noted the cancellation remains tentative, as minor hockey continues to talk to the city. The tournament dates remain open, but have not yet been booked. Judd said minor hockey has requested 600 hours at the community rink - identical to what it received last season. So far, only 200 hours have been booked, mainly involving Saturday ice times. Judd admitted the tournament cancellation is not a done deal just yet, pending the results of negotiations with the city. He acknowledged it is being used as a bargaining chip in negotiations with the city. “It‘s a drastic move,” he said. “We‘re just trying to force an issue for all the years to come.” “None of us can understand, if you subsidized it last year, why can‘t you subsidize it this year?” Minor hockey already has 12 tournaments scheduled for 2009-10. Judd said with dozens of visiting teams and hundreds of hotel nights, that has a significant economic impact. Minor hockey estimates the tournaments generate about $2.9 million to the local economy.

Judd said the 600 hours minor hockey booked at the community rink last year were at a subsidized rate of $120 per hour. This compares to 1,500 hours at Memorial Arena for $71 an hour and roughly the same rate at McLaren Park Arena. Full ice costs at the community rink range from $145 to $150 an hour. However, faced with a deficit which could exceed $1 million for the SOEC, Memorial Arena and the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre, city council is now looking to increase revenues. Council discussed the ice time issue last week and postponed a final decision to its Aug. 4 meeting to allow for further review. At issue, how much the city should subsidize the ice costs for minor hockey. Continuing the subsidy level at the community rink would cost the city an extra $38,000. Coun. Andrew Jakubeit, who also serves as past-president of Penticton Minor Hockey, suggested the city split the subsidy into two budget years. A fall subsidy of $19,000 would be included in the 2009 budget, while the remaining $19,000 would be budgeted for 2010. Meanwhile, Judd fears Aug. 4 may be too late. He suggested Global Spectrum, which manages the SOEC and Memorial Arena, may have already booked the remaining ice times to other organizations by then. However, that suggestion was denied Monday by Curtis Webb, general manager of Global Spectrum‘s Penticton operations. Webb said all ice time bookings for the SOEC community rink and Memorial Arena are on hold until the issue is decided by council. “We are in a holding pattern right now, of booking any ice times,” he said. “We have not contracted anybody‘s ice times for 2009-10 season.” The only confirmed times at the community rink are home games for the Penticton Lakers of the Kootenay International Junior (B) Hockey League. Webb said no further bookings will be made until after city council decides how handle the ice time issue with minor hockey. He said even if council doesn‘t make a decision until Aug. 4, there will still be time to confirm ice times with all user groups. Webb said Global Spectrum subsidized minor hockey times at the community rink last year without the approval of city council. Judd said he‘s been told that council plans a special meeting this week to discuss the issue. However, that could not be confirmed Monday by City Hall staff.

Kelowna against cell phones in cars

by Wayne Moore - Jul 28, 2009 CASTANET:

The City of Kelowna has waded into the debate over banning the use of cell phones in moving vehicles, however, they didn't go far enough for one councillor. A resolution before council Monday asked that the city support the RCMP's initiative to ban the use of cell phones while driving. Council, at the urging of Andre Blanleil, amended the resolution to include only 'hand held' cellular devices. Councillor Michele Rule, says the amendment was one she couldn't endorse. "Because of that amendment, I won't be supporting the motion," says Rule.

"The report in here is very clear that evidence concludes there is no difference between the cognitive diversion associated with hands free and hand held cell phone." Rule says the report which accompanies the resolution spells out the risks. "The passenger is aware of the driving situation, the driving serves as an additional lookout for hazards. The passenger can adjust speech tone and conversation in the driving environment. This report was quite scary." Councillor Charlie Hodge says he's not crazy about hands free devices, however, " my big concern is seeing someone driving around with one hand on the cell phone and making a left turn," says Hodge. "My concern really is with the hand held units. I think that is the number one danger." Council passed the resolution to ask the province to support the RCMP initiative with Councillor Rule voting against.

Employment Opportunity City of Vernon

RECORDS COORDINATOR
Download - 79.83KB pdf
(Full-time – Permanent)

Competition #: 0063-COV-09
Closing Date: Internal Applicants – July 31, 2009
External Applicants – August 7, 2009
Rate of Pay: $26.40 per hour

Reporting to the Manager of Corporate Services this position is responsible for maintaining the
City’s corporate records system and coordinating and researching all Freedom of Information
(FOI) Requests for Records.

Baryla Top Canadian

Written by Peter McIntyre Monday, 27 July 2009 17:18107.5 KISSFM

A Vernon golfer was tied for top Canadian at the RBC Canadian Open which ended today at Glen Abby in Oakville Ontario.

26 year old Chris Baryla fired a 6 under par 66 to end up in a tie for 8th place, tied with Stephen Ames for top Canadian.

Baryla pocketed a cheque for $123,038, and was six shots back of the leaders.

Australian Nathan Green outlasted Retief Goosen in a two-hole playoff to win the rain delayed event, the 34 year old's first PGA Tour win.

Chris Baryla of Vernon ties for low Canadian at 100th Canadian Open. (8th Overall)

T8

T43

Chris Baryla

FC

SC

P

S

H

-6

F *

-12

69

71

70

66

276

City, union reach deal

Jul 27, 2009 08:55 AM The Star:

After 35 long and miserable days, a deal was reached this morning to end the strike by Toronto's garbage collectors and other outside workers.The settlement came after around-the-clock bargaining sparked by a 48-hour ultimatum issued Friday by Mark Ferguson, president of CUPE Local 416, representing some 6,200 outside workers.Ferguson said the next step is for the city to make a deal with striking inside workers represented by CUPE Local 79.He said the outside workers' deal would only be put to a ratification vote once the inside workers have an agreement as well.The strike is not expected to end until then.

Debate pending on tight-lipped Penticton council policy

JOHN MOORHOUSE Monday, July 27, 2009 Penticton Herald:

It‘s time for Penticton city council to loosen its inter-governmental lips a bit, say a pair of city councillors. Councillors Dan Albas and Garry Litke have issued a notice of motion, to be debated at the Aug. 4 council meeting, over a city policy preventing council from taking a more vocal stance on issues outside its direct jurisdiction. The policy states that “in order to avoid conflict with other levels of government”, council members, city staff and city advisory committee members should refrain from taking positions on political issues beyond the scope or control of city council. Council members should “only address issues that are apolitical and within local government areas of jurisdiction.”

Albas said Sunday although there was no one single issue that prompted the call for the policy change, he pointed to a recent suggestion by Coun. Andrew Jakubeit that council write a letter to Penticton MLA Bill Barisoff regarding regulations which prohibit search and rescue personnel from riding in an ambulance to assist with a patient following an incident. City staff noted such an issue was outside the city‘s jurisdiction. “As council, we‘re supposed to represent the people of Penticton. If we find there‘s a matter than we feel that‘s important, we should be able to communicate that to our MLA or MP,” Albas said. “It‘s obviously a selective policy, because we‘ve sent items to the Union of B.C. Municipalities a resolution that is outside of our jurisdiction.” Albas said loosening the current policy would allow council to have a voice on senior government issues, as long as it‘s respectful and constructive. “I can‘t think of anyone in the provincial or federal government that wouldn‘t like to hear from a municipality on what it thinks is important on particular issues, especially when they have to do with mutual concern.” he said. “It seems kind of goofy that we can‘t a letter to our own MLA to discuss something Ð that we have to rely on the mayor to have a conversation on his own.” Litke said there are instances where this tight lips policy puts council and the community at somewhat of a disadvantage. “There‘s a policy that constrains this council from commenting on issues that are the jurisdiction of other governments,” Litke said. “But oftentimes the lines of jurisdiction cross and this council has in the past been reluctant to comment on issues such as that.”

Terrace fire now 50% contained

Jul 26, 2009 / 8:55 am CASTANET:
The wildfire at Terrace Mountain, which is estimated at 4,500 hectares, is now 50 percent contained. BC Forest Service crews have completed control lines on the west side of the fire, and are making good progress towards completing control lines on the east flank. Fire officials will continue to assess conditions for burning off opportunities. Resources on site include 250 BC Forest Service firefighters, 89 pieces of heavy equipment, 16 helicopters, and an additional 59 firefighters with the Structural Protection Units from the Office of the Fire Commissioner.

The weather is forecast to be sunny with the possibility of afternoon thundershowers and winds from the north at 12 to 20 kilometres per hour. Hot and dry conditions are expected to return for Monday. Although some of the Evacuation Orders have been downgraded to Alerts, other Evacuation Orders and Alerts remain in place for areas around the wildfire. On Saturday, some 1,200 residents were allowed to return home, however the evacuation orders remain in effect for some 1,000 residents.

For more information please contact the Emergency Operations Centre at 1-250-469-8490.

Fire in Armstrong may have been arson

Ron Seymour 2009-07-26 Kelowna Courier:

The clubhouse at Armstrong‘s only golf course was destroyed early Saturday by a fire that may have been started by an arsonist. The two-storey, 3,500-square-foot building at the Royal York RV Park and Golf Club, which contained a lounge, restaurant and pro shop, burned quickly after the fire started about 4:15 a.m. “I got over there within minutes of receiving the alarm, and it was already a sickening sight,” Wendy York, one of the family members who share ownership of the golf club and campground, said Saturday. “It was already fully engulfed, and it wound up being a complete loss,” she said. “The building was totally destroyed. We also lost 25 power golf carts.” Del Honeybourne, who lives right across from the golf course on the south side of Armstrong, said there was some suspicious activity around the clubhouse at the time the fire started. “The building‘s alarm woke me up, and then I heard a car racing like mad out of the parking lot,” Honeybourne said. “I looked out our window and saw flames going up from the clubhouse.” Another resident tried to pull the carts away from the building, but they were chained and locked together. The York family developed the nine-hole golf course and 24-site RV park in 1990. Aside from the loss of the clubhouse, there was only minimal damage to a nearby putting green, and no other buildings or vehicles were affected. “The Armstrong volunteer fire department did a great job of making sure the fire didn‘t spread into some nearby trees,” said York, who hopes the golf course might soon resume operations with a temporary structure for a clubhouse.

Vernon: Wins Visit from one or more Vancouver 2010 Olympic and/or Paralympic Games athlete(s)

ACT NOW B.C.:

July 11 is Paralympic Day, and in honour of the 2010 Paralympic Games, for the month of July GamesTown 2010 will be awarding tickets to the Paralympic Winter Games events! 12 BC Communities will win tickets and other great prizes. Make sure your community is a part of GamesTown 2010 by sharing your story!

Prize Details: Eight (8) winning communities will be awarded: - 1 x Pair of tickets (2 tickets total) to the Xth Paralympic Winter Games Events (events to be determined by the Province in it sole discretion)

Three (3) winning communities will be awarded: - 1 x Pair of tickets (2 tickets total) to the XXIst Olympic Winter Games Events (events to be determined by the Province in it sole discretion)

One (1) winning communities will be awarded: -1 x Visit from one or more Vancouver 2010 Olympic and/or Paralympic Games athlete(s) (either before or after the close of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and the Contest Period)

July Winners:

• 100 Mile House: Paralympic tickets
• Ladysmith: Paralympic tickets
• Lake Country: Paralympic tickets
• Saanich: Paralympic tickets
• Sicamous: Paralympic tickets
• Tofino: Paralympic tickets
• Vancouver (City of): Paralympic tickets
• Williams Lake: Paralympic tickets
• Chemainus First Nation: Olympic tickets
• City of Langley: Olympic tickets
• Vanderhoof: Olympic tickets
• Vernon: Athlete visit

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Gamestown2010 Vernon entries (4 so far)

25th Ave and 27th st exit. (STAFF REPORT)

Agenda Package - 5.45 MB P.6 and 7. (CITY OF VERNON- COW AGENDA)
SUBJECT: Realignment of the intersection of 27th Street and 25th Avenue

At its regular meeting held on July 13,2009, Council requested that staff provide information regarding the realignment of 25th Avenue at its intersection with 27th Street. Concerns have been raised regarding this intersections visibility at the stop sign, the new angle of entry onto 27th Street and the swept path of school buses turning right onto 27th Street.

Staff Response
The alterations to this intersection was undertaken as an Accident Remedial Project to address the sixteen accidents that had occurred over a five year period. The previous layout required vehicles exiting 25th Avenue to merge with vehicles already traveling northbound on 27th Street. This often led to inappropriate approach speeds and the drivers exiting 25th Avenue were required to view the directly approaching traffic and check their blind spots, by looking backwards over their shoulder. These factors are known to lead to misjudgments regarding the distance, speed and location of safe gaps in the approaching traffic.

When two lanes merge, rather than intersect, a longer length is created over which vehicle to vehicle conflicts can occur. Research has also established that "such angled intersections pose particular problems for older drivers due to the decline in head and neck mobility which usually accompanies advancing age." lt should also be noted that it is requirement of the Motor Vehicle Act to ensure any maneuver is a safe one by undertaking visual checks and that the sole reliance on a single mirror would not meet this requirement.

Given the number and type of accidents at this intersection it was clear that drivers were failing to merge safely and therefore the Accident Remedial Project was implemented. The new road alignment was designed and constructed so as to require drivers, exiting 25th Avenue, to approach 27th Street on a reduced angle and to stop. This reduces the distance over which vehicular conflicts can occur and enables drivers then to simply look to their left to see the oncoming traffic directly and be better able to judge speed and distance.

At the design stage the turning requirements for a school bus were overlaid on the design drawing to ensure that a bus could make the right turn onto 27th Street. At the construction stage Al Hemming of School District 22 was contacted and on October 31, 2008, a school bus was successfully driven though. However, to ensure ease of use by the school bus the curbline was altered by 0.8m. The first phase of the construction work was completed last year prior to the fall of snow. The second phase, to widen the shoulder on the east side of 27th Street between Highway 6 and 25th Avenue, is planned to be undertaken October this year. This final phase will further improve sight lines of the approaching traffic, whilst providing a more bicycle friendly shoulder on this well used part of the Bike Network. As with all projects in the City, its use and any future accidents will be monitored to ensure it meets the desired aims of reducing traffic accidents at this location and improving facilities for cyclist.

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Don Quixote Note: This is the staff report that will be shown to Council at Monday's COW meeting at 8:40AM. My unscientific poll on right has not attracted many people's opinions to date. Any comments (of a civil nature) are welcome -(anonymous comments have been turned back on for 2 days) ! As I am operating from a backup computer with limited availability these comments may be slow in been posted-sorry!)

I think the report is well detailed and explains fully why the original change was made.
Don Quixote Note: The letter from the retired Police Officer that brought this matter before Council can be found in the Morning Star's letters to editor.

Water bomber battling B.C. forest fire crashes into Okanagan Lake

(CP) – 43 minutes ago

KELOWNA, B.C. — A water bomber battling the Terrace Mountain fire near Kelowna, B.C., has crashed into Okanagan Lake.Transportation Safety Board spokesman Bill Yearwood says the pilot is expected to survive. Yearwood says he doesn't know what caused the crash. Just over half the 2,200 people forced from their homes after the fire flared up have been allowed to return home.But they are still on evacuation alert.The fire that now covered 45 square kilometres is only 25 per cent contained.

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An AT-802F Air Boss watertaker crashed into Okanagan Lake near Kelowna, B.C. on Saturday. (Conair website). July 25th, 2009.

Airtanker crashes into B.C. lake near Kelowna

Updated: Sat Jul. 25 2009 14:13:47 ctvbc.ca

An airtanker plane engaged in fighting forest fires in West Kelowna, B.C., crashed into Okanagan Lake on Saturday, CTV News has confirmed. The pilot was able to escape unhurt.Rick Pedersen, a spokesman for Conair, said the plane flipped over at around noon while attempting to scoop up water from the lake. But Pedersen said he doesn't know what caused this to happen.The AT802 Fire Boss plunged into about 110 metres of water, prompting officials from the Canadian Aviation Safety Board to launch an investigation.The Fire Boss loads water at the rate of 40 gallons per second at over 60 miles per hour, according to the Conair website.Powered by a turbine engine, it takes off and lands on the water, at remote strips or at small airports, and offers low vibration and excellent pilot visibility, Conair said.

Suspicious fire destroys Armstrong golf clubhouse

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 25, 2009 10:00 AM

A Saturday morning fire destroyed the clubhouse at the Royal York Golf Course in Armstrong, taking with it tons of merchandise and memories. Armstrong Spallumcheen volunteer firefighters got the call at around 4:25 a.m. Saturday, and the clubhouse was fully involved when they arrived on scene. Close to 30 firefighters battled the blaze.“We have no idea what happened,” said Wendy Dauncey, whose family, the Yorks, own and operate the nine-hole facility and RV Park. “The clubhouse is demolished, it’s gone. A lot of memories are gone as well. A lot of people have gotten married here.Dauncey said nobody was hurt in the blaze, which also destroyed a number of golf carts parked at the course

The RV Park was fine with only ash from the fire ending up on a few trailers.Fire crews were still on the scene Saturday morning mopping up the suspect blaze.“We are investigating it as a suspicious fire at this point,” said Armstrong Spallumcheen fire chief Rob Brown. “We have RCMP on the scene and looking at it from that aspect first, and see what we can figure out.”The golf course was closed Saturday.“We’ll try to re-open as soon as possible,” said Dauncey. “We’re going to get a temporary building, we’re bringing in some golf carts from Osoyoos.”Course members were finding out the news Saturday.Sharon Bain and her family have been members for nearly eight years, and her two kids, now adults, began playing at Royal York as juniors.“I feel like there’s a huge hole in my life, a huge loss,” said Bain. “It’s such a great place. The people get treated so well there by the Yorks and Jason (head pro Wizniak). The course and clubhouse hosts lots of social functions, and we go to them all.”

Weevils could be the answer to Lake Scugog weed woes

Invasive Plant Council of BC: (Published an Ontario letter to editor below:

Durham News, March 30, 2009 (ONTARIO)

There is a workable, environmental answer to the problem of out-of-control growth of the lake weed called Eurasian milfoil. The solution is to buy and install sufficient numbers of a native predator, the Milfoil weevil, to reduce significantly the thick infestations of this lake weed that we all find so obnoxious.This is a bio-control that has been used elsewhere with great success, that actually gives native plants a chance and yet has no negative effect on other species including humans.These weevils have historically been present in Lake Scugog because they ate the native milfoil, which is present but never in big supply. However, when the Eurasian variety of milfoil was introduced into our lake in the late 1960s, it took many years for the tiny, sesame seed-sized weevils to propagate to sufficient numbers to destroy the huge milfoil weed-beds that were as much of a problem in the 1980s as they are now.However, as their food weed-beds disappeared, their numbers once again crashed to low levels, allowing the milfoil once again to proliferate -- starting basically in 2006.Because non-native Eurasian milfoil is not just a Lake Scugog problem, but a North American problem, a company has sprung up that supplies quantities of weevils for 'salting' in milfoil-dominated lakes to speed up the natural predator/prey cycle -- with great success.The Scugog Lake Stewards witnessed evidence of a lake transformation using additional weevils from this company and were excited to hear that the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Natural Resources have agreed with their use. There appears to be no downside to introducing additional weevils other than organization of the venture, finding funds and public education.

Introduced in tight plots within the weed-beds, weevils produce three to four generations each summer and each female will lay over 400 eggs in her lifetime. It is not an instant solution, but within two to three years, we could be able to use the bay recreationaly once again.

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Population boom for Lake Scugog weevils

Weevils Make Dramatic Progress in an Ontario Lake

Southern Ontario’s Puslinch Lake had been waging a losing battle against Eurasian watermilfoil for a number of years before deciding to become Ontario’s first Milfoil Weevil project. Located in Cambridge, ON, approximately 30 minutes southwest of Toronto, Puslinch Lake is approximately 400 acres (163 Hectares) with maximum and average depths of approximately 18 and 4.5 feet, respectively (5.5m and 1.4m). Owing to the very shallow depth and rich organic sediments in the lake, topped-out milfoil covered more than 50% of the lake surface when the MiddFoil project began in 2006. This coupled with very high stem density made Puslinch one of the most difficult project lakes we’ve worked with to date.

Fifteen thousand weevils were stocked in three locations during 2006; 24,000 were stocked in three additional locations in 2007; and 12,000 were stocked in two locations in 2008. Although follow-up surveys revealed limited progress during the first two years of the project, dramatic changes were noted by mid-summer 2008. As the aerial photos below illustrate, large areas that were topped out and very difficult to get a boat through are now clear of milfoil.

Terrace Mountain fire 25% contained

by Contributed - Jul 25, 2009 / 9:16 am CASTANET

The wildfire at Terrace Mountain, which is estimated at 4,500 hectares, is now 25 percent contained. Higher relative humidity and recent precipitation have led to much quieter fire behaviour, and will allow fire crews more time to complete their fire guards. Tactical strategies include preparing for back burning, which is burning off unburned fuel back from contingency guards. Resources on site now include 250 BC Forest Service fire fighters, eight helicopters, 27 water tenders, 48 pieces of heavy equipment, and an additional 56 fire fighters working with the Structural Protection Units from the Office of the Fire Commissioner. Additional air support from the six amphibious water bombers is also available if required. The weather Saturday is expected to be a mix of sun and cloud, with temperatures in the mid twenties and the possibility of isolated afternoon thunderstorms. Winds from the north and northeast are expected to range between 10 and 25 kilometres per hour. The weather is forecast to return to warm and dry for Monday and Tuesday. Although some of the Evacuation Orders have been downgraded to Alerts, other Evacuation Orders and Alerts remain in place for areas around the wildfire. For more information please contact the Emergency Operations Centre at 1-250-469-8490.
Link: See more photos in the gallery.

Hutterite drivers can't detour photo ID rule, top court says

Sue Bailey THE CANADIAN PRESS

OTTAWA–Hutterites in Alberta have lost their religious bid to sidestep driver's licence photo rules in a closely decided judgment by the country's top court. The Supreme Court of Canada ruled 4-3 to uphold provincial rules making a digital photo mandatory for all new licences.Headshots have been entered in an Alberta database since 2003 to track existing drivers and inhibit fraud. "The goal of setting up a system that minimizes the risk of identity theft associated with drivers' licences is a pressing and important public goal," Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin wrote for the majority. The Hutterites are a Christian sect that believes being photographed violates the second of the Ten Commandments forbidding idolatry.In 2003, Alberta offered to let Hutterite drivers continue to use special licences without photos, but said they had to be photographed for inclusion in its security database. The Hutterites refused.

Those who won't comply with the rules can always hire drivers, McLachlin said of the rural sect that argued its way of life is threatened. "Many businesses and individuals rely on hired persons and commercial transport for their needs, either because they cannot or choose not to drive."She was joined in the majority by Justices Ian Binnie, Marie Deschamps and Marshall Rothstein.Yesterday's divided ruling is the latest twist in the legal debate over accommodation of religious beliefs.By 2003, Alberta had approved 453 special licences without photos – 56 per cent of them held by Hutterites.Lawyers for the sect argued that the province presented no evidence to show that the practice somehow constitutes a security threat.Federal lawyers argued an exemption for Hutterites could increase the risk of forgery for a document commonly used for identity purposes. Justice Rosalie Abella wrote a passionate dissent, backed by Justices Louis LeBel and Morris Fish, saying the security benefit of mandatory photos is slight compared to the impact on a traditional sect's beliefs.She noted that photos of 700,000 Albertans who don't drive are also missing from the security database.

Windsor, Ont., civic strike ends

CBC News:

About 1,800 striking civic workers in Windsor, Ont., voted in favour of a tentative deal with the city on Friday to end a 101-day job action that brought garbage collection and other services to a standstill.Although it did not release exact results, CUPE announced its members voted overwhelmingly in favour of the four-year agreement, which boosts wages by 6.3 per cent over the span of the agreement.Negotiators for CUPE's two local unions reached the tentative deal early Thursday after more than 46 hours of bargaining. The union said it would not be recommending workers accept or reject the deal.CUPE gave up on the contentious issue of post-retirement benefits for newly hired workers and in return agreed to wage increases and lump sum payments. New employees will be able to opt in to a self-funded benefits program, CUPE said.

RCMP will adopt new Taser guidelines: B.C. premier

CBC NEWS July 24:

The premier of B.C. says he has been assured the RCMP in his province will adopt new provincial guidelines for the use of Tasers, but he can't say when it will happen.Premier Gordon Campbell said he has spoken with RCMP Deputy Commissioner Gary Bass and came away satisfied the federal force will adopt the new guidelines issued by the province on Thursday."I think they are very comfortable with the report. They have in the past worked with us very closely on recommendations that come from British Columbia. So he anticipates no problem," said Campbell on Friday morning.Campbell said he and Bass didn't set a timetable to restrict the use of Tasers, but said he is prepared to address the issue in contract negotiations with the RCMP."I expect they're going to move forward with us. We're in the middle of contract negotiations and we'll continue on with those and I'm sure conclude them very successfully."

On Thursday, retired justice Thomas Braidwood report 19 recommendations on the use of Tasers and other conducted energy weapons by police in B.C., following the death of Polish Immigrant Robert Dziekanski at the Vancouver airport in 2007.As soon as the recommendations were issued, B.C. Solicitor General Kash Heed endorsed the report and said he expected all police officers to immediately adopt the new guidelines on when to use the stun guns.But the RCMP has yet to publicly say that they will comply with the directive. Instead, the force said Thursday it would study the recommendations.The federally run force currently provides policing for about 70 per cent of B.C. under the terms of a contract, which expires in 2012.

HST coming July 1, 2010

What gets taxed: PST-exempt goods and services to be subject to B.C.’s harmonized sales tax

The following goods and services are currently exempt from provincial sales tax (PST), but will be subject to the full 12-per-cent harmonized sales tax when it is implemented next July. With the new HST, businesses will be able to recover the PST portion of the tax they currently pay, rather than passing it on to consumers as part of the price of these items. Theoretically, that should mean that prices for these goods will come down by seven per cent as they become subject to the full tax.

GOODS

• Residential fuels (electricity, natural gas) and heating.

• Basic cable TV and residential phones.

• All food products (only basic groceries will remain exempt under new tax).

• Non-prescription medication.

• Vitamins and dietary supplements.

• Bicycles.

• School supplies (books will continue to be exempt).

• Magazines and newspapers.

• Work-related safety equipment.

• Safety helmets, life jackets, first-aid kits.

• Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.

• Energy conservation equipment (e.g., insulation, solar power equipment).

SERVICES

• Personal services such as hair care.

• Dry cleaning.

• Repair services for household appliances.

• Household maintenance such as renovations and painting.

• Real estate fees.

• Membership fees for health clubs.

• Movie and theatre tickets.

• Funeral services.

• Professional services such as accounting and home care.

• Airline fares within Canada.

Source: B.C. Ministry of Finance

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• How will the hotel room tax be impacted by the B.C. HST?The B.C. HST would apply to short term accommodation so the provincial hotel room tax would be wound down to coincide with the implementation of the B.C. HST. The tax rate on short term accommodation would be reduced from 8% to 7%.
  

• Will rebates of the B.C. HST be available to municipalities? A rebate of the provincial portion of the B.C. HST is proposed for those local governments that currently qualify for the federal rebate of GST. The rebate would reflect the fact that these organizations currently pay a certain amount of direct and embedded PST and would be set to generally protect the sector from paying additional tax.

• Carbon Tax With the proposed point-of-sale rebate for motor fuels, the provincial portion of the B.C. HST would not apply to gasoline, diesel, marine diesel or aviation fuel including biofuels components used in a motor vehicle, boat or aircraft to the carbon tax payable on those fuels.

  However, the B.C. HST will be applied on top of the purchase price including any carbon tax on all other fuels.

Update: West Kelowna EOC registered 9,000 people; still less than half of Fintry evacuees registered

Friday, July 24th, 2009 | 1:24 pm KELOWNA.COM

Media Briefing for Vernon ESS

Information officer Gord Molendyk speaks to the media this morning at a briefing in Vernon. (Photo Rob Montgomery)

By Joe Fries

Still less than half of the 2,200 evacuated Fintry residents have registered with the emergency operations centre in Vernon, a press conference was told this morning.Information officer Gord Molendyk, who speaks on behalf of the EOC there, said 755 people had registered as of 11 a.m. A further 13 evacuees from Fintry High Farm registered at the EOC in West Kelowna, according to staff there. So where are the rest of the evacuees?“Some could be away on holidays, some could be at friends’ places and just not called us,” Molendyk said afterwards.And another 20 or so people who live along the water are planning to use their boats if a hasty retreat is necessary.Molendyk noted that people, even those who don’t need, or don’t qualify for, emergency assistance, should still register so they can be accounted for. People can also now register by phone at (250) 550-7850.He clarified that only those evacuees whose primary residence is within the evacuation area qualify for assistance with food, shelter and clothing.On a related note, Molendyk also said police located a man who on Thursday had been going door to door telling some residents in the Westshore Estates area to leave their homes when they were still only under an evacuation alert.“He was presenting himself as an official and trying to get people to leave, and it was causing havoc for the individuals in that area,” Molendyk said.“He was presenting himself as an official and trying to get people to leave, and it was causing havoc for the individuals in that area,” Molendyk said.The unidentified man, who resides in the area, was removed by police and told, “that if he goes back in, he’ll be facing criminal charges.” “There’s a possibility that he may be suffering a little bit from mental-health issues,” added Molendyk.

Meanwhile, in West Kelowna, 9,000 evacuees from all three fires had registered at the Mount Boucherie EOC as of this morning, and all but a handful were chased away by the Glenrosa and Rose Valley fires. Information officer Tom Wilson echoed Molendyk’s thoughts about where the missing Fintry evacuees may be. Because many of them are vacationers, they “likely packed up and headed somewhere else.”And further, Wilson added, “From what I understand, the RCMP are definitely patrolling the streets and the waters… and making sure people who shouldn’t be there are not there.”Police on Thursday threatened unwanted visitors with a $230 fine.

Provincial Revenue Carbon Tax neutrality gone and a Provincial tax on a tax in effect July 1, 2010 ??

Ottawa cashing in with tax on B.C.'s carbon tax july 29,2008 (excerpts below)

B.C. Finance Minister Colin Hansen said he is powerless to stop Ottawa from having tax on the carbon tax. When British Columbia's much disputed carbon tax kicked on July 1st, Victoria said it would be revenue neutral, the money generated would be returned to taxpayers. But it turns out Ottawa is cashing in by collecting the GST on top of the carbon tax.

BC Finance Minister Colin Hansen says there is nothing he can do. "I personally disagree with the concept of a tax on a tax but that's the way the federal government has the GST set up,'' he said.

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Don Quixote Note:Since the GST (Gouge & Screw Tax) is applied to the B.C. Carbon tax and B.C. Innovative Clean Energy Tax BUT are PST exempt now, it seems that Minister Colin Hansen will have to eat personal crow as the unified HST will probably apply to both of these 2 provincial Green Taxes. (There goes revenue neutrality)

The harmonized HST will already add over $1.35 million for Vernon Terasen Gas users and a further 7% tax on their BC Hydro bills so the extra 7% that you have to pay your barber or hair stylist will seem like pretty small potatoes.!!!

B.C. harmonizing sales tax with GST

Tom Fletcher - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 23, 2009 6:00 PM

The B.C. government is joining Ontario in harmonizing its sales tax with the federal GST, effective July 1, 2010.

Premier Gordon Campbell and Finance Minister Colin Hansen announced the change in Vancouver Thursday, presenting it as a revenue-neutral way to simplify the system for business and encourage new investment.

“This is the single biggest thing we can do to improve B.C.’s economy,” said Campbell. “This is an essential step to make our businesses more competitive, encourage billions of dollars in new investment, lower costs on productivity and reduce administrative costs to B.C. taxpayers and businesses. Most importantly, this will create jobs and generate long-term economic growth that will in turn generate more revenue to sustain and improve crucial public services.”

The harmonized tax will incorporate the seven per cent provincial sales tax and the federal goods and services tax, currently at five per cent. It will mean a combined rate of 12 per cent, which Campbell said will result in lower overall taxes than Alberta and Ontario.

“The PST is an outdated, inefficient and costly tax, some of which is hidden in the price of goods and services and passed on to and paid by consumers,” said Hansen.

The change means provincial sales tax will now apply to a wide range of services that were not taxed before. Currently PST is charged on legal services in B.C., but the new harmonized tax or HST will extend to everything from haircuts to oil changes that are currently subject to GST only.

The harmonized sales tax has been a goal of the federal government for some time, and that’s why it sweetened the deal with a one-time transfer to B.C. $1.6 billion to cover transition costs, Campbell said.

The B.C. government has resisted calls from Ottawa to follow suit with Maritime provinces, Quebec and Ontario. Hansen said one important change made by Ottawa was to allow point-of-sale rebates on the new HST for gasoline and diesel fuel for vehicles. This allows B.C. to adjust the HST downward as the carbon tax on fossil fuels increases.

There will also be HST exemptions on books, children’s clothing and footwear, child car seats and booster seats, diapers and feminine hygiene products.

Hansen said the implementation will result in a drop in revenues to the province initially, moving to a slight net increase in later years.

Both Campbell and Hansen stressed that in addition to the administration burden of two different sales tax regimes, the current PST is paid by businesses on the materials they use, resulting in a hidden tax that increases costs.

The finance ministry calculates that moving to the HST will save about $880 million for the B.C. construction industry, $140 million for manufacturing, $210 million for transportation and $140 million for the forest industry.

Having fewer forms to fill out is expected to save B.C. businesses another $150 million.

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Don Quixote Note: Take a look at your hydro bill and terasen gas bill. At present these are PST (7%) exempt for residential customers. On July 1 2010 you will have an increased cost for the HST. As noted below the ICE Tax and Carbon Tax do not at present attract PST but GST is collected on them. LOOK for a tax on a tax when the HST comes into effect. The present 3% franchise fee on Vernon Terasen gas customers raises $581,000 (est.) in 2008. A 7% PST would extract $1,355,000 in increased taxes from the Terasen Gas users in the City of Vernon. Hydro Electrical users will see an additional hit also!

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Innovative Clean Energy (ICE) Fund Levy Extension:

The provincial sales tax (PST) exemption for electricity, natural gas, propane and fuel oil used for residential purposes does not apply to the levy.

Braidwood orders tighter Taser rules

Jeff Nagel - BC Local News Published: July 23, 2009 2:13 PM

Tough restrictions on the use of Tasers by police in B.C. are being recommended by former Justice Thomas Braidwood.But the head of the public inquiry into the use of the stun guns rejected calls for a complete moratorium on police Taser use."Our society is better off with these weapons in use than without them," Braidwood said Thursday.

"It's less lethal than firearms. Sometimes just producing it is enough."

The inquiry had been launched after the death of Polish immigrant Robert Dziekanski, who was tasered five times by RCMP officers at at Vancouver International Airport in 2007.Braidwood handed down 19 recommendations into the use of Tasers.Key among them is that police not simply taser suspects who are "actively resistant" but only those who are causing or are about to cause bodily harm."It would embarrass me as a Canadian," Braidwood said, to see an officer Taser a suspect "for merely walking or running away."Tasers should be used only in truly criminal incidents, he added, not to stop fare evaders – as has been done by Transit Police.Taser use should only happen if no lesser force option would be effective, he added, and if crisis de-escalation techniques prove ineffective.The decision to continue to allow restricted Taser use comes despite Braidwood's finding that the stun guns can kill by causing heart failure.

"The risk of serious injury or death increases if the weapon is deployed across the chest of the subject, or is deployed against medically vulnerable people or is deployed multiple times against a subject," he said. Tasering a mentally disturbed person is "in most cases the worst possible response," he added.

Among the recommendations:

• Tasers not be fired for more than five seconds in most cases.

• Officers carrying them should also have an external heart defibrillator.

• Crisis intervention techniques must be used before tasering emotionally disturbed people.

• Paramedics should be called when tasering those at high medical risk, including the elderly, pregnant women, and emotionally disturbed people.

• The province set B.C.-wide standards for conducted energy weapon use, training and reporting.

Braidwood took direct aim at the provincial government for allowing various forces in B.C. to develop a "patchwork" of policies on Taser use. "It has been left to each police department," he said. "The provincial government has abdicated its responsibility to establish province-wide standards." Police forces relied too heavily on the claims and training materials of manufacturer Taser International, he ruled.Improved procedures are critical to rebuilding confidence in police, he said."The most important weapon in the arsenal of the police force is public support," Braidwood said.His findings apply only to municipal police, sheriffs and corrections officers, although it's expected the RCMP would voluntarily comply and Braidwood recommended compliance be a pre-condition for renewing the RCMP contract in 2012.

The B.C. Civil Liberties Association had called for a complete moratorium on Taser use pending rigorous independent studies into possible health risks.

Braidwood's separate inquiry into Dziekanski's death is to resume submissions in the fall.B.C. Solicitor General Kash Heed said the province will accept all the recommendations.

"We have this higher threshold in place as of one o'clock today," he said, adding he expects all law enforcement agencies, including the RCMP, to follow the regulations.

"These recommendations will take us further in preventing this kind of tragic incident from happening again," Heed said, referring to the death of Dziekanski.

The province previously pulled older model Tasers that weren't delivering the correct jolt and all Tasers in B.C. will be subject to ongoing testing, he said.

Tasers had been fired 1,400 times in B.C. as of 2007, eight years after their use here was first allowed.

The full 556-page report can be found at www.braidwoodinquiry.ca.

2,200 told to get out now as Terrace Mountain worsens

Morning Star Published: July 23, 2009 3:34 PM

An Evacuation Order was issued at 9:30 a.m. Thursday for the North Westside Road areas between Caesar’s Landing in the south and Killiney Beach in the north. This order indicates approximately 2,200 residents must immediately leave the following areas:

· Caesar’s Landing

· Ewing’s Landing

· Nahun

· Valley of the Sun

· Muirallen Estates

· Estamont

· Aspen Shores

· Summersands

· La Casa

· Fintry Provincial Park and campground and Fintry Delta

· Killiney Beach

These residents must travel north on Westside Road, report and register in person with Emergency Social Services at the reception centre located at the Vernon Recreation Centre, 3310 37th Avenue in the City of Vernon. Emergency Social Service volunteers are on hand to assist these evacuated residents with food, lodging and other needs. Residents with questions regarding the evacuation and alerts may contact 250-469-8490 which does not incur long distance charges for North Westside Road residents using a cell phone.

RCMP and other officials will be assisting these evacuated residents with an orderly and safe movement north along Westside Road to the Reception Centre. Please be aware of the possibility of encountering heavy equipment and fire resources along Westside Road. The public is asked to stay out of areas under evacuation order to allow emergency services to focus on public safety.

—Emergency Operations Centre

VERNON BLOG DOWN FOR A WEEK

MY hard drive blew up and it will be about a week before I can get back online.

Posting will be sporadic.

Truck driver plows through video store

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 21, 2009 7:00 PM

Employees at Rogers Video in the Fruit Union Plaza were trying to go about their business Tuesday morning. They were trying hard not to notice the large, gaping hole in the back of the building, created as the result of a truck driving into the wall in the early hours Tuesday. Vernon RCMP were conducting a traffic stop in the 3100 block of 25th Avenue at around 12:30 a.m. Tuesday when the vehicle sped away. “The driver of the truck failed to make the turn at the end of the alley, and drove through the back wall of Rogers Video,” said Vernon RCMP spokesman Gord Molendyk. The driver and a passenger in the truck fled on foot. The driver was captured a short time later, while the passenger was tracked down by using the driver’s cell phone. The truck, which had been reported earlier in the week from Kelowna, had a trailer carrying a bobcat which had also been reported stolen out of Vernon on Monday. The incident caused a delay in the video store’s opening for business on Tuesday.“We can’t open until the hole is patched up,” said Shawn, a store employee who did not wish to give his last name. “We’re pretending there’s not a hole there, we’re just continuing on with our day.” It was unclear how much damage was caused to the store.

The driver of the truck and his passenger are both from Prince George. The driver, 19, is currently under a conditional sentence order out of Prince George. He is facing charges of obstruction, breaching conditions, failure to stop, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle/evading police, dangerous driving without due care and possession of stolen property. The passenger, 20, is expected to be charged with possession of stolen property.Both men were slated to appear in Vernon Provincial Court Tuesday.

From public to legal service

Public Eye Online:

Tom Christensen may not have run for re-election. But that doesn't mean the former Campbell administration cabinet minister is staying out of public life. Last week, the Law Society of British Columbia notified members it had appointed Mr. Christensen to the Legal Services Society of British Columbia's board of director for a two-year term beginning September 7, 2009
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The Legal Services Society (LSS) is governed by a nine-member board of directors. Five of the directors are appointed by the province’s Lieutenant-Governor in Council, and four are appointed by the Law Society of BC. As a whole, the board must reflect a range of skills and experience in areas such as business management, law and the operation of courts, BC's cultural diversity, and the social and economic circumstances of people with low incomes. As individuals, each has demonstrated a commitment to helping the disadvantaged with their legal issues.

Chiefs reject B.C.'s aboriginal title offer

Tom Fletcher - BC Local News Published: July 21, 2009 4:00 PM

B.C. aboriginal leaders have started working on their own proposed law to redefine their land and resource claims, having scrapped the provincial government's offer to concede aboriginal title across the province. The B.C. government's discussion paper has met with consistent opposition in hearings with aboriginal communities around the province that began in June. The discussion paper has now been "set aside" and lawyers for aboriginal bands are seeking their own way to end the constant court battles over land rights, the president of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs said in a letter to members this week.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip said it's clear several key parts of the government's proposal won't be accepted by aboriginal people. The idea of "reconstituting" B.C.'s 203 bands into about two dozen "indigenous nations" as they existed prior European contact is seen as a loss of local autonomy, and the proposed Indigenous Nations Commission is viewed as another layer of bureaucracy. Community and tribal meetings have also identified "that there is a risk of including aboriginal title recognition in legislation which also recognizes Crown title in any form," Phillip wrote. The letter reflects aboriginal leaders' conclusion that they have the upper hand in discussions with the province, after a series of court actions strengthening aboriginal claims and weakening the position of B.C. and Ottawa. "We have an opportunity unlike any other in our history," Phillip wrote. "The province has been compelled through law and politics to agree to recognition of title. We must use this opportunity well."

Aboriginal Relations Minister George Abbott said it's too early to conclude that the government's offer is dead. He intends to wait until a chiefs' assembly in late August and a final verdict from the First Nations' Leadership Council, the powerful three-member group that includes Phillip. "We haven't actually received any direct communication from the leadership council to this point that they believe indigenous nations or any other elements in the discussion paper are abandoned," Abbott said in an interview Tuesday. He also disagreed with the suggestion that provincial Crown title to much of B.C. is at risk as aboriginal groups press their claims to areas that were never ceded by treaty. A B.C. Supreme Court decision last year suggested that the Tsilhqotin people have proven they are the rightful owners of a remote valley near Williams Lake, and that the forests ministry has no right to licence logging on what it considers Crown land.That decision is being appealed as the B.C. government looks for a simpler, more cooperative way to settle aboriginal claims that affect 100,000 transactions every year.

Hey Judy

PUBLIC EYE ONLINE: July 21

Former police services division deputy director Judy Reykdal has been directly awarded a seven-month policy/research consultant contract worth up to $120,000. According to a notice posted on BC Bid last week, Ms. Reykdal will be advising government as it renegotiates its agreement with the Mounties to provide provincial police services. She was chosen for that contract "based on superior knowledge acquired from over 20 years of direct experience managing the RCMP contract in BC." The government didn't tender her contract because an open bidding process could "compromise government confidentiality," as well as interfere with "the ministry's ability to maintain security or order or to protect human life or health." The following is a complete copy of the aforementioned notice.

Man with gun arrested in Vernon

by Castanet Staff - Jul 21, 2009 / 10:25 am

Vernon RCMP have a man in custody after he was spotted allegedly pointing a gun in the parking lot of the 7-11 on 39th Avenue. Police say the suspect was located about 10 blocks away."A 22-year-old male was arrested without incident and is expected to appear in court to face charges of pointing a firearm, possession of a weapon, having a prohibited weapon in a vehicle and possession of a loaded weapon," says spokesman, Gord Molendyk. He says further charges could be forthcoming.

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About 7:30 p.m. on July 15, police arrested a 22-year-old man after he apparently mooned a number of police officers in the Kin Beach area. Molendyk says bike patrol officers came across a group of intoxicated people. "One male in particular was very intoxicated and his friends were told to take him home," says Molendyk. "The male then walked behind the officers and mooned them." Molendyk says he was arrested for being intoxicated in a public place. He says the man also faces obstruction charges after resisting arrest and threatening police.

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On Saturday, Molendyk says officers were again called to the Kin Beach area after a group of intoxicated individuals were seen setting off fireworks on a vacant lot. "Police and fire department officials are very concerned with this activity, especially with what they are facing in West Kelowna," adds Molendyk. "We are reminding everyone to use common sense with the fire danger so high right now and it is likely to get worse with the high heat we are experiencing."

Okanagan highway reopens through West Kelowna

CBC NEWS:

B.C.'s Highway 97 and 97C south of West Kelowna have reopened after being closed over the weekend because of nearby forest fires. The highways, which connect the Kelowna area with southern parts of the Okanagan Valley and the Coquihalla Highway to Vancouver, were reopened at 6 a.m. PT Tuesday by officials after they determined two nearby forest fires and the associated smoke were no longer a danger to motorists. About 6,000 residents were also expecting to be able to return home Tuesday morning, after large parts of West Kelowna were evacuated on Saturday.Officials said Tuesday night that the evacuation order will be lifted at 8 a.m. for almost 2,000 homes north of Glenrosa Road and north of Powers Creek, but the residents were told they will have to be ready to leave again at a moment's notice, as the area remains under an evacuation alert. Another 5,000 residents remain unable to return home, as crews continue to battle two fires burning in the area, and a further 6,000 residents, who were not forced out of their homes, still remain under an evacuation alert. Fire officials said the Glenrosa fire is now 60 per cent contained but the Rose Valley fire is only 10 per cent contained. A third fire to the north at Terrace Mountain has not been threatening any homes.

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WRitten by Glen Morrison Tuesday, 21 July 2009 03:35107.5 KISSFM:

About 6-thousand Glenrosa residents can go home as of 8 o'clock this morning, after being forced out since Saturday by the forest fire in their neighborhoods. And Highway-97 and the 97-C Connector are to re-open to traffic, also at 8am today. People living north of Glenrosa Road and north of Powers Creek can return home this morning, although they'll still be on evacuation alert, and they could be told to leave again if conditions change. Residents south of Highway-97 and west of Powers Creek, including properties northwest of the Cove Resort, are still on evacuation-orders. And when it comes to the Rose Valley fire, all evacuation orders and alerts remain in place for now. The Terrace Mountain fire near Fintry is still uncontained with alerts for residents in place.

Exploring alternatives to RCMP

By Lachlan Labere - Salmon Arm Observer

Accountability and control. Coun. Alan Harrison says the city currently lacks both in its contract with the RCMP. In response he has asked that council and city staff explore the possibility of establishing a municipal police force instead. “I’m not sure of a cost saving but what I do know is the closer the budgeting process is to the source, the more control you have over it,” Harrison told the Observer. “I’m not saying we should make that jump, but I think we should explore it. “Because, for example, cities with a municipal police force, like the city of Nelson, they have direct control over their moneys that are spent on policing. Whereas here, as we just found out, we have no choice but to agree with the RCMP contract that’s nationwide. And if we don’t agree, we don’t get the policing that we want.” Harrison referred to a resolution put forward to council by city corporate services director Monica Dalziel. The resolution asks that a letter be sent to the federal Treasury Board, stating council supports in principal an incremental increase of $54.43 for the 19 RCMP members of the Salmon Arm detachment for the 2010/2011 budget.

“The Treasury Board will not allocate any increased funding for policing for the city through their budget for the process without a letter from us,” explained Dalziel. “If you do not adopt this resolution… the Treasury Board will send the same amount as last year and, if costs are higher, the city will be shorted.” The increase, said Dalziel, does not represent a raise, but the cost of providing policing services divided by the number of members. Dalziel noted that council once refused approval and, as a result, members of RCMP Division E paid city hall a visit “to educate” staff and council of the need. Coun. Kevin Flynn, of similar mind as Harrison, described this as a perfect example of the lack of accountability. “We don’t have any control over any of these budget numbers, we just get told here is what it is. In a lot of cases we don’t even understand where the numbers come from…,” said Flynn, agreeing the city needs to have a look at its options.

“A municipal force may cost more, but I think in this day and age when this is costing us close to 20-25 cents on every dollar that our taxpayers pay, we should be looking at whether we feel we’re getting the right accountability and control over that budget.” A municipal force is one option for policing services in a survey provided to the city from the Union of BC Municipalities regarding the RCMP’s contract renewal in 2012. Contract renewal and establishing a provincial police force are two others. Asked why he preferred a municipal force, Harrison said he has found that B.C. has a greater RCMP presence than any other province. “I think the RCMP do an excellent job here in Salmon Arm and in many other communities,” said Harrison. “But it’s expensive, and we don’t have any leverage in this contract in 2012 as far as finances go. One of the reasons I’d like to look at a municipal police force is we would have much more control over cost.” Council approved the request from Dalziel, and will look into holding a workshop to discuss the survey options.

Premier ordered to hand over BC Rail emails

CBC NEWS: Monday, July 20, 2009 | 2:35 PM PT

A B.C. Supreme Court judge gave Premier Gordon Campbell and several senior staff members and former cabinet ministers an Aug. 17 deadline Monday to turn over emails related to the controversial $1-billion sale of BC Rail to CN Rail in 2003. The order includes former finance minister Gary Collins, former transportation minister Judith Reid and former education minister Christy Clark. Once they are produced, Justice Elizabeth Bennett will review them and decide what is relevant to the trial of former ministerial aides Dave Basi and Bobby Virk. They were charged with fraud and breach of trust following an RCMP raid of the legislature in 2003. Dave Basi's lawyer, Michael Bolton, said the emails are critical and potentially explosive."Based on the showing we've been able to put forward so far, based on what we do know and what we do have, they appear to be highly relevant to our defence," said Bolton.

B.C. NDP critic Leonard Krog said it is about time the B.C. Liberals showed co-operation in the case. "It speaks to their arrogance, more than anything, that we're here today — 5½ years after the raid on the legislature — having to get a ruling from a judge to produce evidence that should have been kept, preserved and handed over to the defence a long time ago," said Krog. Defence lawyers told reporters last Thursday that many of these executive-branch emails related to the BC Rail sale may have been erased as recently as May.

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 20, 2009 10:00 AM Guilty pleas in death of Vernon cabbie

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 20, 2009 10:00 AM

A Vernon man has entered two guilty pleas in connection with the death of a Vernon cab driver in April 2008. Dallas Parker Smithson, 19, pleaded guilty in Vernon Provincial Court to impaired driving causing death and impaired driving causing bodily harm Monday, on what was to the be first day of his trial, in relation to a motor-vehicle accident that killed Vernon Taxi driver Howard Collins on April 20, 2008. Smithson, who appeared in court in a suit, bowed his head as his lawyer, Grant Gray, entered the guilty pleas. Smithson had been facing five charges in connection with the accident, which also injured a passenger in Collins’ cab. A pre-sentence report has been ordered and a sentencing date will likely be set for September. Collins was killed shortly after 3 a.m. when an SUV is believed to have run a stop sign at the intersection of 43rd Avenue and 20th Street and broadsided Collins’ cab.Members of Collins’ family, Smithson’s family and Vernon Taxi employees filled Vernon Provincial Courtroom #201 for Monday’s proceedings.

Host government Share of Casino Revenue Vernon, Kamloops, Kelowna, Penticton

For information on casino gaming revenues shared with local governments, see Local Government Share of Provincial Casino Revenue .

GAMESTOWN 2010

Let's show Canada how VERNON is getting into the Olympic Spirit! Tell Gamestown 2010 how our community supports sport, healthy living and the 2010 Winter Games.

Goto www.gamestown2010.ca and enter your photos, stories and video.

Later this year, three B.C. communities will be picked as the gold, silver and bronze GamesTowns and will receive funds to put towards sports or healthy living facility improvements of their choosing. Along the way, Gamestown 2010 will also be awarding many other great prizes, including tickets to the Winter Games!

Check out VERNON's Gamestown 2010 Page

And don't forget to make your Healthy Living Pledge! By making a pledge it will be considered when awarding the GamesTown2010 grand prizes. Help Vernon by filling out a pledge form. Click here to be taken to the Healthy Living Pledge Form.

RCMP Musical Ride at Armstrong Sunday

Glenrosa Fire update (Video)

Web posted on Sunday, 19 July 2009 CHBC

Fire-fighters are still working frantically to try and contain the Glennrosa Fire. Although the wind hasn't been nearly as strong as yesterday, when the fire jumped highway 97, it was still gusty enough to fan the flames back to life in several areas.

Glenrosa wildfire 40 per cent contained: B.C. officials

Sunday, July 19, 2009 | 7:39 PM PT CBC NEWS:

Officials with B.C.'s Wildfire Management Branch say the most harmful wildfire burning in the Okanagan is 40 per cent contained. The blaze, which broke out Saturday at about 2 p.m. in West Kelowna, is being fought by 125 firefighters, eight air tankers, 10 helicopters and several pieces of heavy machinery. Approximately 11,000 people in the Glenrosa area remain under an evacuation order, and an additional 6,500 people are under an evacuation alert. Since the fire started Saturday afternoon, flames have destroyed at least nine buildings, including three houses, and charred 3.5 square kilometres in West Kelowna. Thick smoke in the area led officials to close Highway 97 in both directions where it connects to Highway 97C. Residents affected by the evacuation order are being asked to report to emergency evacuation reception centres at Royal LePage Place at 2760 Cameron Rd. and Mount Boucherie Secondary School at 2751 Cameron Rd.

Air tankers and firefighters worked all day Sunday to contain the West Kelowna blazes. (CBC)

Concerned residents or relatives can call 1-250-469-8490. Residents who are unable to reach evacuation centres are asked to call 778-797-2269. Meanwhile, a fire burning on Terrace Mountain near Fintry, north of the Glenrosa fire, is still out of control Officials said Sunday evening that fire is estimated to cover 8.5 square kilometers, up from just 2.5 square kilometres earlier in the day, but it is not threatening any homes or other buildings. More than 60 firefighters are on scene, along with four helicopters. Officials believe the fire was caused by a person.

A smaller fire four kilometres from the Glenrosa blaze in the Rose Valley Reservoir continued to burn Sunday. That blaze is estimated to be one square kilometre in size. More than 1,500 people were put on evacuation alert Sunday morning as crews struggled to lay a line of fire retardant around the fire. By Sunday afternoon, officials said firefighters managed to surround 90 per cent of the fire. Officials say they believe that fire was caused by a person, but the details are still under investigation.

Convicted sabateur says RCMP asked for his help

Updated: Sun Jul. 19 2009 17:35:47 ctvbc.ca

Wiebo Ludwig, an Alberta farmer who spent nearly two years in prison on charges relating to bombings against oil and gas weills, speaks to CTV News on Oct. 20, 2008.

Wiebo Ludwig, who was convicted of sabotaging oil and gas operations in northwestern Alberta a decade ago, says the RCMP asked him to help catch the EnCana bomber. There have been six bomb attacks since last October against EnCana's oil and gas operations near Dawson Creek, in northeastern British Columbia. "They begged me to help them," Ludwig said. "I said listen, I wouldn't squeal on this guy." But Ludwig said he did offer to go to B.C. and talk to people he knows there in an effort to find the perpetrator - provided police didn't follow him. Ludwig, who was released from jail in 2001 after serving two thirds of a 28 month sentence, said the Mounties turned down his offer. "We have had some conversations with Ludwig," RCMP SGt. Tim Shileds said. "I'm not in a positiong to make those conversations public." The RCMP plan to set up a temporary detachment in Tomslake, B.C. where they believe the suspect lives.Two letters sent by the suspect mentioned the small town, 20-kilometres southeast of Dawson Creek.

State of emergency declared in West Kelowna as forest fires rage

Jason Luciw - Kelowna Capital News Published: July 19, 2009 1:00 AM

More than 4,700 homes remain evacuated in West Kelowna, affecting approximately 11,000 people as two forest fires continue to burn in the Glenrosa/Westbank and Rose Valley areas of the municipality, located across Okanagan Lake from Kelowna. Highway 97 remains closed indefinitely in the Westbank area, severing the only direct link between Kelowna and the southern Okanagan communities of Peachland, Summerland and Penticton. Addressing the media during a late Saturday night press conference, West Kelowna Mayor Doug Findlater said he and his council made the decision to declare a state of emergency for their community of 29,000 people. “Obviously (it's been) a really tough day. It’s a very dangerous situation,” said Findlater. “We knew it was dry, extremely dry, but, what we had today, that’s magnified this, is high winds, sometimes up to 60 kilometres an hour.” Everything that can be done is being done to attack the fire and help residents cope, said Findlater.

Areas under evacuation order now include Rose Valley subdivision, Seclusion Bay, Whitworth Road, Gellatly Road and Goat’s Peak (see list of roads below). “And as you know the (upper and lower) Glenrosa and Gellatly Bay area have already been evacuated,” said Findlater. Evacuated residents who have no place to stay are again advised to go to Royal LePage Place at the Mount Boucherie Civic Centre on Cameron Road. The nearby high school is also open to take any overflow. “There are people there who are billeting people in homes as best they can.” Peachland is also helping residents who’ve been stranded south of the Highway 97 closure. “Peachland is receiving them and putting them up in their community centre,” stated Findlater.

However, making Peachland's assistance efforts difficult is the fact that power is out in most of that tiny community, said Findlater. Power is also out in the Glenrosa and Gellatly Bay areas for approximately one more full day, according to B.C. Hydro spokeswoman Jeanette Hoft. Fortunately, the main transmission line to West Kelowna is so far unaffected by the forest fire, said Hoft. At least three homes have been destroyed and more than 30 homes are immediately threatened by the Glenrosa fire, which now totals more than 300 hectares, according to West Kelowna fire chief Wayne Schnitzler.So far, Gorman Bros. mill has been spared, said Schnitzler. Water bombers, 10 helicopters and a 169 person crew are assigned to fight the Glenrosa fire, Schnitzler added.

There is no containment of the Glenrosa fire whatsoever, according to B.C. Forest Service spokesman Rob Moore. Meanwhile, the second forest fire is now 30 hectares. It broke out in a remote area above the Rose Valley Reservoir to the west of the municipality. Shifting winds remain cause for concern with that fire, however, forcing evacuations on Lenz and Bartley Roads and the Rose Valley subdivision. Causes of neither fire have been determined at this time.

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Other Coverage CASTANET:

• Mill saved -- cause under investigationWest Kelowna 1:43 am
• Rose Valley evacuation expandedWest Kelowna 1:22 am
• Expect power outages: BC HydroWest Kelowna 1:18 am
• Mayor Findlater talks about fireWest Kelowna 12:42 am
• Rose Valley evacuations issuedWest Kelowna
• No power or gas in GlenrosaWest Kelowna
• More evacuation alerts issuedWest Kelowna
• Areas being evacuatedWest Kelowna
• West Kelowna council meets across lakeWest Kelowna
• Entire Glenrosa area evacuatedWest Kelowna
• Fire at Tolko MillWest Kelown

Casino rules were broken. Information law prevents full details of the infractions

Dustin Walker, Daily NewsJuly 18, 2009

The latest audit of the Great Canadian Casino in Nanaimo found eight areas where gaming regulations were contravened, but information laws prevent the public from knowing what many of them are. Although the local casino was determined to be in overall compliance with provincial rules on gaming, the 2008-09 Gaming Policy and Enforcement Division audit detailed two infractions: Promotional materials used on slot machines at the local casino did not contain the required "responsible gambling" message and that ATMs were clearly visible from the gaming floor, which is against B.C. Lottery Corporation standards. The report noted that the promotional material was later removed while BCLC said that a small wall was built in January to block the view of an ATM. But six other "operational exceptions," some pertaining to issues such as security and surveillance, were omitted, citing Section 15 of the B.C. Information and Privacy Act, which limits disclosing information that may be harmful to law enforcement.

Although critics of the province's gambling programs admit there may be good reasons for keeping some facts out of the public's hands, they wonder whether the government is truly providing the public with all the information it can on how B.C.'s casinos operate. Nanaimo MLA Leonard Krog thinks there should be a time limit on how long the government can keep certain information from the public. A government spokesperson said some of the omitted information relates to addressing security and surveillance concerns at the casino and could have implications for law enforcement if the details got out.

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Link for list of Casino Audit Files in B.C.

Interior Health cutting 100 jobs

Saturday, July 18, 2009 | 12:19 PM PT CBC NEWS:

B.C.'s Interior Health Authority is in the process of cutting 100 jobs as it copes with heavy budget pressure. Chief executive officer Murray Ramsden said 50 people would be laid off and another 50 vacant positions eliminated. The move comes after the health authority said earlier this week workers had been asked to accept four-day work weeks, a hiring freeze and slashed travel costs as it faces a potential budget shortfall of at least $30 million. "We are trying to find our savings through the [administration] and support areas," Ramsden said. "We are asking our clinical areas to stay at last year's [spending] levels and at this point, they are running over last year's levels, so that is our challenge." Ramsden said he's hopeful the moves will keep patient care from suffering, though he wouldn't make any promises."If it continues for the longer term, yes, it will have an impact, but in the short term —meaning this year — I am still optimistic that by all of us working together, working through the challenges that are out there, that we will be very successful in coming through the year," he said.

Health authorities across the province are grappling with budget pressures after Health Minister Kevin Falcon said earlier this month there would be no health-care bailouts this year.He instructed health authorities to cut costs in order to stay within their allocated budgets.

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Year Ended Reports 2008 IHA Reports

Audited Financial Statements – Year ended March 31, 2008
Statement of Executive Compensation – Year ended March 31, 2008
Salaries >$75,000 – Year ended March 31, 2008

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Cutting costs
Web posted on Friday, 17 July 2009 CHBC VIDEO

The big boss at Interior Health is hopeful he can find $30 million in savings without compromising patient care.

New facility boosts Legion morale

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 18, 2009 12:00 PM

The beer was cold, the coffee was hot and the smiles were plenty among Royal Canadian Legion Branch 25 members and guests, enjoying the Legion’s new home at 4607-29th Street. President Gary Caswell officially opened the building with a flag raising ceremony Thursday morning at 11. “I declare this Legion open to serve the community of Vernon, our Legionnaires and guests,” said Caswell, before someone in the crowd yelled out ‘hip hip hooray.’ Close to 50 Legion members and guests attended the ceremony. The Legion needed a new home when its former spot in a downtown building at the corner of 31st Avenue and 31st Street – home to the Legion since the 1940s – was sold. The building’s new owner, however, permitted the Legion to stay until they could find a new facility.

“He let us stay until this place was ready,” smiled Caswell. “We had a closing day at the old building.” Inside the new Legion, there is room for about 150 seats, a pool table, bar, lottery terminal and dance floor. Caswell hopes to have the Legion’s kitchen up and running by the middle of August, once equipment ordered from out east arrives. The second floor of the building houses a couple of Legion offices plus some storage. Outside the Legion is what Caswell believes will be the new home’s most popular gathering spot: the landscaped patio, where those who want to enjoy a drink, a smoke and the sunshine can hang out. There are six tables, each with patio umbrellas, and a big new wooden fence. “In the province of B.C., you can’t smoke within 10 feet of the door or any exhaust fans,” said Caswell. “Our patio will be pretty popular.”

Caswell doesn’t have the final figures in for the new building, but estimates the Legion has invested around $350,000 in its new home. Legion Branch 25 is open seven days a week and is fully licenced. Any Canadian citizen of voting age is eligible to apply for Legion membership. The local branch has about 1,000 registered members. “That means we have members, it doesn’t mean they’re active members,” said Caswell. Among the active members inside the new facility enjoying a cold mid-day brew was Bill Inglis, a Second World War veteran, impressed with the Legion’s new home. “I think this is great. It’s nice and bright and it’s all level, there’s no stairs. That’s what stopped a lot of members from attending at the old Legion,” said Inglis. “We hope to get more support from our members,” added Rosemarie Baye, enjoying a cup of coffee. “It’s the support that is most important.” While the Legion may be seeking support from its own members, it continues to give back to the community.

In 2008, the Legion donated $62,000 to local charities, adult groups and to students for post-secondary bursaries and scholarships. They also continue to support veterans through its highly successful poppy campaign every fall.

Intersection drives debate

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 18, 2009 12:00 PM

A Vernon councillor wants city staff to re-examine its decision to change a unique Vernon intersection. Bob Spiers says the redesigned intersection at 25th Avenue and 27th Street, where the old stop sign and subsequent merge northbound on 27th has been replaced with a stop sign and north/south turn onto 27th, is a “different kind of configuration that is causing great concern for a lot of people.” “I’ve talked to many East Hill people that drive through there, I’ve yet to find one that’s appreciative of the change,” said Spiers. “I’d ask for a review of why it was put up that way.”

Coun. Shawn Lee, a former resident in the intersection’s area for 15-plus years, said he’s happy with the change because now he can see traffic coming north on 27th from up over a rise in the road. “The problem was there was no vision of people coming up over that rise,” he said.

Rob Dickinson, the city’s manager of engineering, who lives in the area and uses the intersection every day, explained the change was made to improve sight lines. At the new turn, a vehicle can see all the way down to Highway 6 without having to do a full body turn in a vehicle. “The way it was before, you had the merge, people didn’t slow down. We put in a stop sign, people barely merged and yielded,” said Dickinson. “Now we’ve prepared it so you actually have to stop, and you have a clear sight line before you go. “It’s not an ideal situation, but it’s the best we can do with that configuration.”

Spiers noted that he received a complaint from a resident who witnessed a school bus trying to make a right-hand turn at the new configuration, and had to go into the oncoming lane in order to have the room to make the turn. Spiers also pointed out a letter to the editor from Sunday’s Morning Star from a retired police officer who called the new design “nothing but an accident waiting to happen.” Council has asked staff to prepare a report on the intersection for an upcoming meeting.

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Don Quixote Note: The letter from the retired Police Officer can be found in the Morning Star's letters to editor.

Council surveys pay structure

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 18, 2009 12:00 PM

Is Vernon council being paid fairly for all of the work they do for the city? That’s a question council has instructed staff to answer by gathering information from other cities and regional districts regarding mayor and councillor remuneration and compensation. “We’ve asked staff to check into remuneration in the sense of how better to spread the remuneration and if it should be in consideration of workloads,” said Mayor Wayne Lippert. It’s a matter of fairness and workload, and not whether he and council should be paid more, said Lippert. “Council gets a set rate whether they sit on one committee or 10, if they’re travelling around the district or not,” said Lippert, who earns $61,510 as Vernon’s mayor. Council members are paid $19,843 per year.

Coun. Bob Spiers said the current policy voted unanimously in favour of by the previous council, which sets a cost of living increase per year, should be in effect for this council’s term. “I believe any review of council remuneration should be done in the third year of any council’s term, and that it be effective for the next council,” said Spiers.

RCMP to open detachment devoted to EnCana bombings

Sat Jul. 18 2009 10:49:34 CTV.ca News Staff

The RCMP plan to open a temporary detachment devoted to investigating the targeted bombings of EnCana pipelines in northeastern British Columbia, according to reports, after investigators received two threatening letters purportedly from the person responsible for the attacks. On Thursday, the RCMP released a second letter that warned the attacks will "get a lot worse" if EnCana does not stop operations in the region. The company produces and ships natural gas in the area.A local newspaper quoted a letter sent by Staff Sgt. Stephen Grant to residents of the Peace River area, saying a temporary detachment will open this fall, possibly in Tomslake.

"While we all have been subject to some very unwelcome attention for many months, I would like to share with you today, a new and I believe, very positive development which is coming soon," according to the letter published in the Prince George Citizen."Through the support of our district management in Prince George, Dawson Creek detachment will be receiving four new members whom I am committing exclusively to providing police service to our rural communities."

Akwesasne chief pushes for Mohawk sovereignty

CBC NEWS Saturday, July 18, 2009

Mohawks on the Akwesasne reserve plan to follow up their apparent victory in a dispute over the arming of border guards by pushing for sovereignty on Cornwall Island, according to Grand Chief Mike Mitchell. The international boundary line cutting through the reserve — straddling Ontario, Quebec and New York State — should also be moved, Mitchell told CBC News on Friday. He said "pulling back" the Canada-U.S. border would bring "the community back as one," but he didn't say where the line should be drawn. The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne has said the federal, Quebec and Ontario governments see Akwesasne as a "jurisdictional nightmare." Canada's public safety minister, Peter Van Loan, pulled a Canada Customs post off the reserve last Monday and set up a temporary post in the city of Cornwall, Ont.

The move followed a six-week standoff around the existing post on Cornwall Island, within Mohawk territory. Mitchell was elected grand chief on the Canadian side on June 27, several weeks into the protest. The Canadian Border Service Agency said it was forced to remove the guards on May 31 because of intimidation tactics by Mohawks and their supporters. Mohawk leaders had argued that giving guns to CBSA customs agents on the island reserve — a plan set to be implemented June 1 — raised the risk of violent confrontation. The makeshift border post means people crossing on to the reserve from the U.S. are now supposed to drive into Cornwall and voluntarily report themselves. The CBSA has said border guards are slated to return to their post on Mohawk land on Cornwall Island in four months.However, Ron Moran, head of the guards' union, has indicated his members are reluctant to return because of long-standing tensions between the CBSA and Mohawk community.

Facilities show there‘s no harm in helping homeless, addicts

By Darren Handschuh Saturday, July 18, 2009

When International Trendsetters co-owner Ed Kendall heard a low-barrier facility for the homeless was opening next door to his salon, he had serious concerns. The Vernon businessman demanded he be on the board overseeing the project that opened in September 2008 so he could raise those concerns. Kendall feared the influx of homeless people and addicts would scare his clients away and destroy his business. Fast forward 10 months and Kendall‘s concerns are gone. “It‘s been fantastic,” he said of the facility earlier this week. Before The Gateway opened, drug deals and prostitution could be seen down the street daily. But the centre brought with it security cameras, on-site security personnel and a new neighbourhood. Kendall has even hired Gateway clients to shovel snow around his business. Kendall praised staff at The Gateway for working closely with the community and for taking care of any problems that arise. He knows the centre is making a difference to some, but he also acknowledges the problems he experienced just moved to a different part of town. Operated by the John Howard Society, The Gateway offers male and female addicts and homeless people a place to access the resources they need to turn their lives around. Mental health is a big focus at the centre, as the majority of homeless people have some form of mental illness. Gateway manager Kelly Fehr knew the facility would cause some concern when it opened, and he is diligently working with the business community, police, bylaw, community policing and other groups to address concerns that may arise. “We had a lot of opposition,” said Fehr, adding he holds neighbourhood council meetings on a regular basis to address concerns. “It‘s not focused on the shelter, but issues in the neighbourhood.”

Despite initial concerns the centre would destroy the block, few incidents have been reported. RCMP spokesman Gord Molendyk said police are “very happy” with how the centre is being operated. “When the word shelter came out, some were afraid people were just going to be hanging out, but it is run much differently,” said Molendyk. “It‘s giving people a hand up. You don‘t just go there and flop.” Fehr said people can stay for up to five days before they must develop a case plan outlining their goals. If they show they are truly trying to change their lives, they can be referred to Howard House for longer-term housing and programs. The Gateway has numerous programs aimed at helping people get off the street that include trained counsellors and medical staff. The key, Fehr said, is counsellors meet clients at the shelter, and that makes a big difference in getting the care they need. Molendyk said The Gateway and Howard House, which also acts as a single-night shelter, have benefited police by providing a place to send a person who may be sleeping in the park or an alleyway. “It‘s a step up and it is giving them a hand to start over again,” said Molendyk.

When Cardington Apartments opened last September on St. Paul Street in Kelowna, many of the same concerns were raised, with some people going so far as to declare it would create a dead zone around the building, but those concerns have also proved unfounded so far. Kelowna RCMP Const. Steve Holmes said police have had “very few calls of any significance” relating to the centre. Holmes said police have conducted some “well-being checks” and have responded to a few calls, which were minor in nature. “We know who‘s there and why they are there,” said Holmes. “For the most part, the people are there because they want to change their lives.” A stroll down the block shows it is no different than any other city street. Cardington is a 30-unit facility that also offers numerous programs to help people deal with addiction and mental illness with the goal of helping them return to mainstream society. Cardington is also operated by the John Howard Society. Central and South Okanagan executive director Shelley Cook said the centre has helped a number of people get off the street and into their own homes. “There was significant opposition and concern about what it meant to the downtown,” she said, adding those concerns were taken seriously by the society. Men and women can stay at the apartments for two years, but Cook said several only needed six months to get back on their feet. “We have one gentleman who was 22 years homeless,” she said. “It‘s a huge accomplishment.” The units are self-contained with a common area and a courtyard. “It‘s a very relaxing, very calming, very beautiful setting, but also a very secure setting, which is comforting for them,” said Cook. Along with around-the-clock staffing, numerous security cameras and other security measures are in place. “No one can get in or out without us knowing and seeing,” she said. Cardington works closely with the RCMP, businesses and community groups. The main floor of the building has been set aside for commercial use, but with the economic downturn leaving the spaces empty, officials are floating the idea of putting in a coffee shop that would employ Cardington clients.

Cook said there are no such facilities in Penticton, but that may change. “There is a recognition of a need there,” she said. “They are looking at some of the successful models.” Cook said there is also a need for the next stage of care, which would be transitional housing. A 49-unit apartment is in the works for Kelowna‘s Rutland district, but funding for the project has been put on hold by the province. New Gate Apartments will be designed for men and women who need support to maintain their housing because of health and social issues, and would provide clients with longer-term housing. A groundbreaking ceremony was held Wednesday for the homeless crisis stabilization project on Boyce Crescent near downtown Kelowna that will be operated by the Canadian Mental Health Association. Willowbridge is a 40-unit supportive-housing development for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The province is investing $7.8 million in capital infrastructure funding to develop Willowbridge through the provincial homelessness initiative. The initiative combines housing with support services to help people move beyond temporary shelter to greater self-reliance and appropriate employment. Willowbridge is also the result of an agreement by the province and City of Kelowna in March 2008 to provide more supportive housing. The city has provided land equity estimated at $564,400 for the development.

Police consider valley-wide task force for homicides

Kathy Michaels - Penticton Western News Published: July 17, 2009 2:00 PM

Murders in the Okanagan could soon be investigated by a valley-wide task force. "What's happening is that one of the senior management officers in the South East district, out of Kelowna, is putting all the facts together and gathering the statistics to provide (Okanagan) mayors with a proposal," explained Insp. Brad Haugli of the Penticton RCMP. If created, the team would work on homicide cases in Vernon, Kelowna, West Kelowna and Penticton—similar to the system in place in some parts of the Lower Mainland. While Haugli said he hasn't been in the Valley long enough to voice an opinion on whether or not this kind of unit would be ideal locally, he did say it works well in the Lower Mainland. "Municipalities that are in the program are, for the most part, happy wit the service they get from the integrated model," he said, adding Vancouver and Delta are two municipalities that don't participate. And, he explained, the key factor to implementing that kind of task force is frequency.

"Unfortunately, this year alone the Lower Mainland is already up to 47 homicides," he said. "With the integrated model, (police forces) have the ability to cover off and investigate the cases properly, while attachments don't have to provide their own resources to investigations, on a lengthy basis." The proposal has yet to be finalized, and a lot of factors would need to be weighed in to assess whether or not the unit would be an ideal fit for Okanagan communities.

Canada’s best and worst run cities

Macleans.Ca
This survey, the first of its kind in Canada, provides citizens in 31 cities across the country with comparative data on how well—or poorly—their city is run, measured by the cost and quality of the public services it delivers. (Why 31? We took the 30 largest cities in Canada, added whatever provincial capitals were not on the list, then subtracted a few cities from the Greater Toronto Area for better regional balance. Somehow that left 31.)

Though the overall results—Burnaby, Saskatoon and Surrey, B.C. lead the pack; Charlottetown, Kingston, Ont., and Fredericton trail—will be of particular interest, they are less important than the process this is intended to kick off. We aim not merely to start some good barroom arguments, but to help voters to hold their representatives to better account, and indeed to help city governments themselves. For without some sort of yardstick to measure their performance, either against other cities or against their own past record, how can they hope to know whether they are succeeding?

Losses continue to mount for events centre

Wolf Depner - Penticton Western News Published: July 16, 2009 6:00 PM

This may be the height of summer, but the people in charge of the South Okanagan Events Centre are counting on a winter sport to get them out of a $1 million hole. Global Spectrum recorded a shortfall of $1.089 million through the first five months of the year for the facilities it manages under its contract, said director of corporate services Jack Kler. Facilities under Global Spectrum’s management include the SOEC and its attached community rink, the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre and Memorial Arena. While this latest number continues the deficit trend of the past, city officials urge the public to be patient with the SOEC as a facility and Global Spectrum as its manager. “The results are the results,” said Kler. “This is the very first year of their operations, obviously.” Global Spectrum, he said, has put together an action plan in response to those numbers. One feature of that plan includes substantially reduced prices for Junior A hockey games, said Kler.While he concedes that this strategy may be risky, it will hopefully increase revenues by increasing volume — putting more people into the seats, in other words.Global Spectrum has also begun discussions with other community groups and with seniors to generate more interest and revenue. While Global Spectrum has exceeded city expectations in managing expenses at the new facility, it has fallen short on revenues, said Kler. “Our revenue projections were more optimistic,” he said.

But things, he said, will be picking up in the coming weeks and months, adding that revenues from those events will only be reflected in the balance sheets at a later date. The facility will be booked solid through July and August, with only one day unused. “It is going to be full-tilt for those two months,” he said. Events scheduled for the coming months such as the upcoming Alan Jackson concert are selling well, he said. If everything goes well, Global Spectrum will be able to push its operating losses just under $1 million, the city’s pre-budgeted subsidy.Kler also made it clear that the city has no immediate plans to increase that budget in case current financial trends continue. That discussion is “premature” he said, adding that the city remains “cautiously optimistic” about the long-term financial trends of the facility.

Kelowna unveils a new logo.

A Dynamic Symbol

The City of Kelowna fosters active living which maintains, respects and enhances our natural environment. The vibrant colours in the City logo represent the sun above Okanagan Lake, the connectedness of our community and the passion of our people.

Key Logo components

• Kelowna’s natural environment and history inspired by several natural and historic features that are true to Kelowna: the Ponderosa Pine Cone, the Kelowna Sun Flower and traditional Interior Salish baskets.
• The circle represents inclusion and has been used by many cultures throughout the globe.
• The colours were chosen based on the consultation process as well as the meaning behind these particular colours. The logo contains the green of our natural spaces and the blues of Lake Okanagan. These colours represented our commitment to be stewards of the environment. The blue symbolizes loyalty and empathy and the green, harmony and balance. While the red and yellows in the logo represent the Okanagan sun, yellow also speaks to our optimism and willingness to welcome change and growth. Red reflects the energy, passion and the desire that the City of Kelowna staff have to be the best mid-sized city.

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Castanet Wayne Moore - Jul 16, 2009 / 1:00 pm Kelowna unveils new $80,000 logo
Kelowna City Manager, Ron Mattiussi, knows you can't please everybody. With that, the city unveiled its new corporate logo Thursday, a project which has been in the works for almost two years. The city poured $80,000 into the logo, comprised of: $35,000 for community consultation and research, $10,000 for logo development and another $35,000 for the Visual Standards Guide, which deals with how this logo is going to be used.
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Castanet Poll:
Poll Results Final

Question: Do you think Kelowna`s new logo is a good image for the city ?

Yes

651

No

1904

Total Votes: 2555

RCMP costs soar with special B.C. computer system

By Alison Crawford, CBC News Thursday, July 16, 2009

The RCMP is paying 65 per cent more to maintain an extra computer database for its officers in British Columbia, and that system still isn't running smoothly, according to new documents released to CBC News. Records obtained through an Access to Information Act request show it costs the RCMP $22.7 million a year to run two systems — one for B.C. and one for the rest of the country. If the RCMP didn't have to support the extra database, the cost would be $13.7 million, about $9 million less. The CBC first reported in April that the RCMP's extra system for B.C., known as PRIME, was costing taxpayers the extra $9 million a year. The RCMP has to maintain PRIME because in 2003 the B.C. government ordered the force, which is contracted to serve as its provincial police, to get on board as part of a province-wide information-sharing system among all municipal forces.

Mounties everywhere else in the country use a system called PROS. Both databases allow officers across any given force or jurisdiction to share information on cases by uploading photos, witness statements and other information. The new documents obtained by the CBC — a series of reports and emails — show an exact breakdown of the systems' costs. One report, drafted by Supt. Chuck Walker to brief William Elliott when he took over as RCMP commissioner in 2007, says that to run the B.C. system, it costs $1,666 for every Mountie in B.C., and that is a "best-case scenario." It costs $1,058 per officer in the rest of the country to run their database. If all Mounties countrywide were on one single, compatible system, Walker notes that the overall cost per officer would decrease to $805.

Walker points out, though, that if the RCMP were to pull out of the B.C. system, it would have financial consequences for the B.C. municipal police forces still using the program. "The costs to the independent agencies using the system will skyrocket," the report states.

Contradictions in info released

The recent batch of documents obtained through the Access to Information Act contradicts some of the information provided to CBC News when it first reported on the two computer systems. Then, spokespeople for the RCMP said the total cost to implement the B.C. system was about $41 million. However, a day after CBC News reported the story on April 27, an email from the RCMP's executive director of financial management, Marty Muldoon, to Deputy Commissioner Darrell Madill and Chief Supt. Doug Lang said it actually cost $44.8 million. A further pitfall of the dual databases is that they are not integrated. In an earlier interview with CBC News, Assistant Commissioner Francois Bidal indicated the RCMP had addressed that problem by developing a program — a Police Information Portal (PIP) — to allow the two systems to interact. However, emails between RCMP communications personnel contain comments from Supt. Mario Beaulne stating that PIP will not be fully launched until next September. Beaulne's comments also reveal that officers using the B.C. system can't even seamlessly communicate among themselves:

"All PRIME users can share information, however only through PIP. PRIME users cannot exchange task workflow between district servers in B.C. — a key element of RMS [records management system] integration — nor can they see each others' files in their entirety." As for the price of building the PIP, an April 28 email indicates it cost $4.5 million.

City delays pesticide ban

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 16, 2009 6:00 PM

A full ban on spraying pesticides and herbicides in Vernon won’t happen before 2010. City council heard in June from a delegation consisting of Kerry Bohkenfohr and Jerilynn Kelly in regards to cosmetic pesticide use on playgrounds and schoolyards. The pair asked for council’s help in prohibiting pesticide applications, scheduled for last month, for Vernon sidewalk cracks, boulevards, alleys, signposts and the front borders of homeowners’ properties. The pair also asked for a ban on spraying playgrounds, playing fields and schoolyards, set for between May and August. However, council voted unanimously after hearing a report from environmental planner Brooke Marshall to continue spraying, as the city has not yet been able to meet with school district officials over pesticide use. “We have contacted the school district staff to discuss the use of cosmetic pesticides and the estimated costs and operational changes required to eliminate their use on school grounds,” said Marshall. “We will be meeting to discuss current pesticide application practices and polices, and to determine the requirements in greater detail in the next month.”

That meeting is slated to include school district, parks, city and District of Coldstream staff. In her report to council, Marshall recommends, for a full ban on the use of all herbicides currently used in the city’s boulevard spray program operations, that four additional labourers and summer students be hired for two months to trim weeds. The estimated cost would be $36,000. As well, Marshall recommends, to help with other operational demands including bike lane cleaning and spring road cleaning, that the city purchase an additional road sweeper. The new piece of equipment would help in reducing organic material along drainage lines at an operational cost of $96,000. The capital cost of the proposed sweeper is $220,000. Marshall said the potential purchase of an additional sweeper is under discussion anyway, regardless of the resolution on pesticide use on roadways.

Dawson Creek - RCMP investigators confirm second letter related to gas infrastructure explosions

2009-07-16 12:18 PDT RCMP Media Release:

Dawson Creek, British Columbia – In an escalation of recent events RCMP investigators are confirming receipt of a second letter in relation to the recent attacks of domestic terrorism on oil and gas infrastructure in the Dawson Creek area.

The letter, which was received by the Dawson Creek Daily News yesterday, reiterates a demand that oil and gas operations cease in the area. “From an investigative standpoint the contents of the letter continue with the disturbing and dangerous actions that have occurred over the past year,” says Sgt Tim Shields, RCMP Media Relations Officer. “Many local residents could consider this letter to be a form of blackmail. Blackmail against industry and the residents living in the area who are directly threatened each time an explosion occurs.” The latest letter outlines a timetable for oil and gas activities to cease, and calls the previous six explosions “minor and fully controlled”. “Any act that directly threatens the lives of people living and working in the area is not minor. Make no mistake, the explosions that have occurred were extremely violent in nature and it is very dangerous to the local community. We have been very fortunate that nobody has been hurt or killed and our ultimate goal is to ensure the safety of our local residents and oil and gas workers,” explains Sgt Shields. RCMP investigators from INSET – the Integrated National Security Enforcement Team -are continuing to follow-up on recent tips from the community and are asking anyone with additional information to forward it to police.“We know that the actions of whoever is responsible are not supported by the community and residents in the area. There are processes in place to voice concerns and violence is simply not acceptable, in any circumstance. If people do have information regarding these attacks it is important to forward it to the proper authorities before something occurs that can’t be undone. None if this is worth harming another individual,” says Sgt Shields.

People with information regarding the attacks, or the letters are asked to contact their local police department, CrimeStoppers, or to call the dedicated tip line at 1-866-994-7473.

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Dawson Creek - Well Control - Video

This video was taken by crews at the sweet natural gas well site bombed July 1, about eight kilometres south of Dawson Creek. The bomb was set at surface, at the base of the wellhead on July 1, 2009. It damaged the pipe at ground level. The bomb did not ignite the gas. The gas was just venting to the atmosphere. Highly-trained specialists in well control tried to pump water down the wellhead to stop the gas flow, but the pipe was too damaged. So they went to the second plan which you will see here in the video.As a safety measure, the crew light the gas intentionally, if this is not done there is the danger of an explosion.

Conflict of interest confirmed

July 16, 2009 11:00 AM Kamloops This Week:

The city’s downtown tax-revitalization bylaw was on the table at city council again this week — but two members were noticeably absent. Councillors Tina Lange and Denis Walsh excused themselves from the discussion because, had they stayed, they would have been in a conflict of interest. Following KTW’s July 3 story questioning whether the pair was in conflict, the city has confirmed that the two were in a conflict of interest by taking part in earlier debates around the proposed changes to the city centre revitalization tax exemption bylaw. Walsh and Lange own property within the bylaw zone.

Randy Diehl, the city’s chief administrative officer, explained neither staff nor other councillors viewed it as a conflict previously because the tax exemption covered such a large area. “But the case law on the matter is that, when you have a specified area like the downtown [revitalization] area, it’s a conflict because you stand to gain one way or the other from it,” Diehl said. Lange is part owner of the Heritage Plaza Hotel, while Walsh owns the Crossroads Inn. Diehl noted that, under the rules, councillors are supposed to identify a conflict prior to any discussion, whether it be in the public realm, at a workshop or during an in-camera meeting. He said once it was flagged by city staff, the two councillors were advised of the situation. Diehl admits the mistake should have been caught, labelling it a “wake-up call.” As for the bylaw itself, it has yet to be officially approved by council, so it remains unaffected.

Lange said she didn’t consider herself in conflict because the bylaw doesn’t change her property. The hotel already has a heritage-tax exemption and can’t qualify for the revitalization benefit. The original revitalization bylaw was first introduced in 2006, before the councillor became part owner. However, Lange said that, upon reflection, she understands some people could see it as a conflict, suggesting it’s just easier for her to leave the room. Walsh said he will also excuse himself when the topic is discussed. “Being a property owner, I have to realize that I have to step out because I am in the tax [revitalization] zone,” he said. Further debate on the tax exemption was deferred so wording on the bylaw could be changed. The tax exemption is aimed at encouraging new development or renovation of old buildings in the downtown core. Eligible developments can receive a 100 per cent exemption from municipal taxes for up to 10 years, but only on the increased assessed value of the property.

Pesticide bylaw finally passes

Jeremy Deutsch - Kamloops This Week Published: July 16, 2009 11:00 AM

Residents will soon have to think twice before spraying their pesky weeds with a pesticide — or face a fine. After years of wrangling, city council has officially passed its pesticide use-control bylaw. The new regulations, which will take effect on March 15, 2010, prohibit a person from applying pesticides on residential land for the purpose of maintaining outdoor trees, shrubs flowers or ornamental plants and turf. However, there is an exception for vegetable gardens and fruit trees. Residents can also apply to the city’s integrated pest management co-ordinator for an exemption by using an accredited licensed applicator to apply pesticides for cosmetic use. In that case, signs notifying the neighbourhood must be posted 24 hours before spraying and remain up for 48 hours afterward. Fines for failing to comply with the bylaw start at $250.

Coun. Pat Wallace said most people won’t like the bylaw, but believes the city has made a lot of positive changes to its regulations.Earlier this spring, those on both sides of the issue expressed their displeasure with the city’s pesticide plan.

Sterile Reaction

Peter McIntyre Thursday, 16 July 2009 07:24 107.5 KISSFM:

The Sterile Insect Release program may be coming to an end, but taxpayers could fund more future pest programs. That was the indication from grower Roger Baily in a fruit industry update to Vernon council this week. Councillor Bob Spiers has a problem with more taxpayer supported programs for the orchardists. He says he's not sure they should continue to subsidise the industry in this form. Bailey suggests the S-I-R could be a vehicle for many different kinds of environmentally friendly measures in the future.
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O'keefe Finances

The O' Keefe Ranch may be on its way to riding out of its financial troubles. New ranch manager Catherine Lord updated city council on their rebuilding this week. Mayor Wayne Lippert says the historic site seems to have turned around with significant improvements and new events including the 'Cowboy Dinner Show.' Lippert has called this a 'make it or break it year' for the ranch which is subsidized to the tune of 260-thousand dollars this year.

Dawson Creek Bombings: Letter Received

2009-07-15 19:06 PDT RCMP MEDIA RELEASE

Dawson Creek - A letter has been received today by a Dawson Creek business concerning the pipeline bombings. This letter is very concerning to investigators and it will be made public during a news conference with Sgt. Tim Shields in Dawson Creek at 1:00 PM tomorrow. Exact location to be posted on this website Thursday morning.

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By Wendy Stueck Vancouver — Globe and Mail Update Last updated on Wednesday, Jul. 15, 2009 08:15PM EDT

Dawson Creek newspaper has received a second threatening letter in connection to bombing attacks that have targeted natural gas pipelines and wells in northeastern British Columbia. “We received a second letter this morning and we handed it over to the police,” Dawson Creek Daily News publisher Dan Przybylski said Wednesday. Mr. Przybylski would not describe the contents of the letter, saying only that it came through regular mail delivery and arrived mid-morning Wednesday. Last October, the newspaper received a handwritten letter that warned EnCana Corp. and “all other oil and gas interests” in the Tomslake area to close operations and leave the area by October 11. Tomslake is about 30 kilometres southeast of Dawson Creek and close to the Alberta-British Columbia border.

On October 12, a hunter came across a six-foot crater on a natural gas pipeline east of Dawson Creek that hadn't been there the day before and that investigators determined was the site of a bomb blast. Since then, there have been five other attacks, all targeting EnCana infrastructure and the most recent occurring on July 4 near Pouce Coupe. No one has been injured by the blasts, but the attacks have rattled residents and raised worries about the potential release of toxic hydrogen sulfide gas, which is contained in sour gas and can be lethal. Despite a $500,000 reward offered by EnCana and an extensive RCMP investigation, there have been no arrests in the case. Recently, some area residents have complained about aggressive, repeated questioning by the RCMP in connection with the investigation. Last October's threatening letter was also sent to the Chetwynd Coffee Talk Express. But owner Ramona Davidson said the paper, as of Wednesday, had not received the second letter.

Water Advisory Rescinded

Written by Rob Abramenko Wednesday, 15 July 2009 16:28107.5 KISSFM

Greater Vernon Water Manager Al Cotsworth notified KISS-FM news Wednesday afternoon that the Water Quality Advisory has been rescinded. The advisory was required after a BC Hydro power failure Tuesday morning compromised the water quality in Coldstream, Spallumcheen and Areas B, C and D of the Regional District.

WEB FIRST: Camp contains virus outbreak

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 15, 2009 4:00 PM

“Be Prepared” is the motto of the boy scouts, but it also came in handy for the Canadian military. Aware that the H1N1, or Swine Flu, virus was prevalent in cities where their cadets were coming from this summer, Lt. Col. Allan Dengis, commanding officer of the Vernon Army Cadet Summer Training Centre, wanted to ensure his facility and staff were prepared in every way possible to look after the wellness of the cadets and staff should an outbreak occur. Dengis instituted pre-screening of the disease as soon as cadets arrived on site and had cadets assessed by medical staff. As a result of the pre-screening, a case of the H1N1 virus was diagnosed and confirmed, another case is pending and six cadets who took ill tested negative for the virus. “The pre-screening initially diagnosed the first cadets with symptoms and, subsequently, we identified 27 other cadets with flu-like symptoms,” said Dengis outside his office at the army camp Wednesday. “At the start of the training season, we instituted some training sessions for all of the staff, cadet staff and cadets in training...and given an overview of what to look for so staff could identify it and identify among the cadets anybody who may be ill.”

The cadets who took ill were immediately segregated into a separate area of the army camp and given direct medical care from medical professionals from the base and from the community. The case was identified on July 9, four days into the training session, and the virus confirmed on Wednesday morning. The identity, age and gender of the cadet with the virus has not been released, but Dr. Gary Saunders, deputy base surgeon from CFB Esquimault, said the person arrived in Vernon from the Alberta Prairie Cadet region. The second cadet who has been diagnosed with Influenza A, though not sure what type, is also from the Alberta Prairie Region, and Saunders said it’s likely that cadet will have the H1N1 virus. “We should know in three or four days, but if you have H1N1 in one case, it would be expected it’s H1N1,” said Saunders. “Once the influenza virus is in the population and people are showing flu-like symptoms, we’re not going to test them all but we can assume it’s the same virus.” It’s not known if the two arrived in Vernon already carrying the illness.

Saunders stresses that the sick cadets are showing just mild flu-like symptoms and that nobody has been hospitalized. Five of the 27 cadets originally diagnosed with flu-like symptoms have already been discharged out of the camp’s holding facility which was isolated from the rest of the base. “We anticipate over the next few days we will continue to get people discharged,” said Saunders, adding discussions with public health officials indicate there is no cause for concern among camp staff, cadets or the general public. There is a chance that other cadets will contract the illness. “It’s pretty hard to completely eliminate it, but we’re doing absolutely everything possible to minimize it,” said Saunders. “We would anticipate still getting some people falling ill over the next few days or a week. “We’re still monitoring it on a daily basis, sending the information to Ottawa who are working with us to advice us if we should take any further action.” Once cadets show the symptoms, they are given fluids to help speed their recovery and ordered to stay in bed. Most have sprung back to their feet in two-to-three days.

“The challenge is to keep them occupied in the isolated area when they want to get out and learn military stuff,” said Saunders, who praised the army camp for the fantastic job they did in separating the sick cadets from the rest of the camp, and adhering to preventative and hygiene techniques to minimize the spread of the disease. No cadets were sent home and parents of the virus-stricken trainees have been kept informed of their childrens’ prognosis on a daily basis.

Dengis said no further cadets will be brought to the training centre. “That’s just looking at the wellness of these individuals, and the cadets that are already here,” said Dengis. “With the prevalence of the illness elesewhere, we do not want to introduce any other cases here, likewise we don’t want to bring in any cadets that may contract it.” Cadets already in Vernon will carry on with their training. Cadets are aged between 12 and 19, and come from as far away as Thunder Bay and Dryden, Ont.

Vernon cadet centre hit with swine flu

Castanet Staff - Jul 15, 2009 / 11:10 am
Training has been reduced at the Vernon Army Cadet Summer Training Centre after lab results confirmed one cadet has come down with the swine flu. As a result, a decision has been made to limit the intake of cadets for the rest of the summer. Officials say this is a precautionary measure. In a press release issued Wednesday, officials say three cadets displayed symptoms of influenza-like illness five days after camp began. One cadet was assessed at Vernon Jubilee Hospital, but was not admitted. Officials say he was then isolated at the base along with the other two cadets. "Since then, a total of 27 cases with respiratory symptoms have been isolated at the centre and all are doing well," the release goes on to say. "No cadets have been hospitalized. The parents of all cadets have been notified and were in agreement with the care provided." The Vernon Cadet Summer Training Centre hosts about 800 cadets throughout the summer, some for two weeks, some for three weeks and about half for six weeks.
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WEB FIRST: Pandemic virus hits army camp Morning Star Updated: July 15, 2009 11:16 AM

Training has been reduced at the Vernon Army Cadet Summer Training Centre as a precautionary measure after a lab result confirmed one cadet has been ill with the H1N1 2009 flu virus.This has led to a decision to limit the intake of cadets for the rest of the summer. Five days after training began this summer, three cadets presented themselves at the centre's Medial Inspection Room with flu-like symptoms. One cadet was assessed at Vernon Jubilee Hospital, but not admitted. The cadet returned to the camp and was isolated, along with the two other cadets. Since then, a total of 27 cases with respiratory systems have been isolated at the centre, and all are doing well. No cadets have been hospitalized.The parents of all cadets have been notified and were in agreement with the care provided.The Vernon Cadet Summer Training Centre hosts about 800 cadets at once throughout the summer, some for two weeks, some for three and about half for six weeks.

Pacific Region Cadets out of Victoria said earlier in the week it was decided to not go ahead with the second two-week intake of cadets. A decision has yet to be made about the third group of two-week cadets and the second group of three-week cadets. Vernon Army Cadet Summer Training Centre has 10 medical staff including a contracted civilian physician, a Canadian Forces nursing officer and eight civilian nurses. Additional CF medical personnel were brought in to assist with the increased volume of illness.

See Friday's Morning Star for more details on this developing story.

The I.P.E. presents the RCMP Musical Ride!

On behalf of the Interior Provincial Exhibition Association, we are pleased to announce that the RCMP Musical Ride will be visiting the Armstrong Fair Grounds on Sunday July 19, 2009 for two performances at 2pm and 7pm!

The RCMP Musical Ride will be preceded by a show featuring various acts and promises to be entertaining. The entire performance will be approximately 1 ½ hours long. Various vendors will be on site providing food and refreshments as well as our own Musical Ride/IPE Merchandise shop providing those special souvenirs and memorabilia. Attendees are encouraged to go meet and take pictures with the riders and horses before and after the shows.

This event is part fundraiser for the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Tower of Care Foundation. This foundation has the goal of raising 7 million dollars to equip the new Patient Care Tower. The new Tower will house Emergency, Maternity, Paediatric, Surgery, ICU, Cardiac and Ambulatory Care.
Ticket Information:
Prices do not include GST
A family pre-sell ticket* will be available at the IPE office in Armstrong prior to the event.
All tickets are rush seating.Ticket Information:
Adult - $12
Child (12 & Under) - $7
Family Pass (2 Adults and 2 Children 16 & Under) - $28

TICKETS CAN ALSO BE PURCHASED AT ASKEW'S FOODS in ARMSTRONG and at ALL VERNON SAFEWAY locations.
All tickets are rush seating.
*Family ticket admits 2 Adults and 2 Children aged 16 & under.

Man charged 23 quadrillion dollars for smokes

CNEWS:
A New Hampshire man says he swiped his debit card at a gas station to buy a pack of cigarettes and was charged over 23 quadrillion dollars. Josh Muszynski checked his account online a few hours later and saw the 17-digit number, a stunning $23,148,855,308,184,500. That's twenty-three quadrillion, one hundred forty-eight trillion, eight hundred fifty-five billion, three hundred eight million, one hundred eighty-four thousand, five hundred dollars. Muszynski says he spent two hours on the phone with Bank of America trying to sort out the string of numbers and the $15 overdraft fee. The bank corrected the error the next day. Bank of America tells WMUR-TV only the card issuer, Visa, could answer questions. Visa, in turn, referred questions to the bank.

Patrol wheeling out tickets

Jennifer Smith - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 14, 2009 7:00 PM

The RCMP’s two-wheeled patrol team has been busy keeping the city’s parks and beaches crime-free. The bike patrol unit has been navigating Vernon streets for the past three weeks and so far have proven to be an effective crime-fighting tool. “They’re all around,” said Gord Molendyk, RCMP spokesman. “Trying to keep our parks a safe and enjoyable place for everyone to use.” So far, the team has arrested 18 people for drinking in a public place, issued three 24-hour driving suspensions, 17 violation tickets for driving infractions and liquor, 10 bylaw tickets for drug paraphernalia, three bylaw tickets for drug possession, four boating tickets plus eight boat warnings, five breaches and one impaired driving charge. “They can pop in and around the parks around and the beaches. They come quietly, they’re in and around alleys and they’re ideal in crowds,” said Molendyk. The team focuses patrols downtown as well as Polson Park, Kin Beach and Linear Park (on 25th Avenue). “They’re keeping those individuals who are going to use it for the wrong reasons out of there,” said Molendyk.For example at the beaches, motorists are checked as they come and leave, many of which are found with alcohol.They also do back up work for other members.“They’re a multi-purpose unit. For example, if tonight it’s raining, they’ll jump in a car and do their patrols.”

Proposed resort now site of court-ordered sale

SCOTT TRUDEAU Wednesday, July 15, 2009 Penticton Herald:

A prime Penticton property where a proposed five-star luxury condominium resort was to adorn the landscape is up for sale. The nearly 10-acre chunk of land at the corner of Skaha Lake Road and Yorkton Avenue that was to be transformed into the Skaha Beach Club & Spa is now part of a court-ordered sale. My Second Home Developments Ltd. had announced in May of 2008 that plans for the resort at the former site of Wonderful Waterworld waterslide were being terminated. Kelowna realtor Joe Ungaro of Royal LePage, who is looking after the property listing, said My Second Home Developments had earlier listed the property for sale for $22 million. The property has been listed with Royal LePage since May 13. Ungaro said the court order gives the lender the authority to step in and take title of the property if a buyer is not found within the listing period, although he would not say when the listing period expires.
Ungaro said he doesn’t know if the court-ordered sale means the company is in receivership. Earlier this year, the Alysen Place highrise residential development at Skaha Lake Road and Guelph Avenue - practically across the street from the Skaha Beach Club property - was placed into receivership, as its second and third phases were put on hold. He noted that the Beach Club property is presently in a redemption stage, meaning that if My Second Home Developments is able to sell the land within a certain time frame, and pay off any amounts owing, it would be able to redeem the property. "In that same period, there is an order of sale, granted to the lenders involved," said Ungaro, adding that if an offer comes in that is acceptable to the lenders, then the offer would be taken to court for the approval of a judge. "At the same time, anybody else that’s got an interest in the title, including the owner could apply to the court and put their case forward," he said. "It’s there to protect the owner and everybody else on title." If the property does not sell within the listing period, then the lenders could make an application for an "order absolute" which would result in them taking ownership of the property. "Usually there’s a sale if there’s a market for something and it doesn’t go there," Ungaro said.

"It’s certainly a different economic environment than it was two years ago to sell stuff like this. Two years ago this would have flown off the shelf and today, it takes somebody that can make sense of it." That means a potential purchaser might consider applying to change the zoning to something more feasible and in step with the current economy. "There’s not a lot of sites in the Okanagan that are nine or 10 acres left anymore," said Ungaro, adding that given the size, the site could be subdivided into four smaller lots. Mel Reeves, chief executive officer for My Second Home Developments, declined comment on the court-ordered sale. However, when announcing the demise of the Skaha Beach Club project last year, Reeves blamed the worldwide sub-prime mortgage crisis, saying the financing markets began to recoil with all the billion dollar write-downs that began in the summer of 2007. The company tried to present the project to financial institutions, hedge funds, private investors and financing groups but in the end, fell short. Plans were to showcase a full-service kitchen, a health and fitness club, a wine bistro, a cafe, convention and meeting rooms, a yoga theatre and a man-made lake.

Swansong for music festival

Don Plant 2009-07-15 KELOWNA Daily Courier:
Expensive artists and low ticket sales have buried the Merritt Mountain Music Festival. Unless organizers can find a new investment partner, the 17-year-old country fest has twanged its last note, employees were told Sunday. Last weekend‘s attendance of 10,000 to 12,000 people fell short of the 18,000 that organizers needed to break even, festival spokesman Don Adams said Tuesday. “The economy has taken a hit. The Olympics are coming. There‘s only so much money to be spread around. When you commit to an act months ago, you‘re committed with the hopes you‘ll get (more) interest in tickets. When you don‘t, you‘re in a bad situation.” The financial load was too heavy for the company that ran the four-day festival, which has attracted Bill Ray Cyrus, Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw and other big names in country music. Organizers have had several setbacks, including a rained-out first year that put them in debt from the start. The challenge now is to pay out all 700 employees, said Adams. He‘s confident they‘ll get their cheques within a week. “It‘ll take some shuffling to get it done,” he said. “We‘re a mom-and-pop operation. We‘ve sustained it for 17 years. It‘s been very difficult. Unless we can find a good partner, we can‘t go next year.”
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J.P. Squire 2009-07-15 Kelowna Daily Courier:
Hydrofest drowns in sea of red ink
Jorum Schramm lost “tens of thousands” of dollars in his unsuccessful bid to promote Hydrofest 2009. So the president and CEO of Leverage Sports and Entertainment isn‘t sure if he will try again in 2010. “I don‘t know. When you fail at bringing back the races in an exhibition-style format, it‘s tough to think about what could happen next year. It was a tough grind this year, an uphill battle the whole way. There are people looking into it and we‘ll assess that situation,” he told a news conference Tuesday. Schramm hasn‘t done a personal tally, but said the effort cost him “a lot – we‘re talking tens of thousands and a year of my life to get the event to the state it is now. It‘s disappointing, but I don‘t have regrets about what I did.” The owners of unlimited hydroplanes, unlimited light hydroplanes and off-shore powerboats also expressed their disappointment, he said. “That, I think, is the greatest tragedy. The boat races are looking for different sites and the boat owners were genuinely excited about coming back. Kelowna is a beautiful location, everybody knows that. Everybody pushed, but it just wasn‘t meant to be this year,” Schramm said. He is not planning any other major events in the Okanagan or elsewhere.

Chretien says Order of Merit 'humbling experience'

CTV.ca News Staff (Full Story)

The former prime minister first met the Queen in 1967, when he was a junior Liberal minister. In 1970, Chretien spent five days travelling through Canada's north in a Twin Otter aircraft with the Queen. Chretien, who was the minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development at the time, recalled that the pair enjoyed a warm rapport. "(The Queen) always enjoyed talking in French with me," said Chretien. "She speaks very good French, and so (does) Prince Phillip. So it was kind of amazing having the Queen and the Prince talking with Aline and I in French." In another royal encounter, Chretien recalled how a curse word made the Queen laugh. During a ceremony for the repatriation of Canada's constitution in 1982, Chretien attempted to sign an official document as a horde of news cameras captured the historic moment. "The pen was broken and I used a bad word -- and she laughed. I said 'merde' and she found it very funny," said Chretien. The Queen's laugh was captured on film and printed on newspapers across the country.The Order of Merit was established in 1902 by King Edward VII. Since its inception, there have been only 169 members.Luminaries like T.S. Eliot and Florence Nightingale have also been members.

Order of Merit Current and Past members:

Habitat for humanity seeks applicants for new home

Published: July 14, 2009 7:00 PM Vernon Morning Star:

There are some people who don’t have a home and in Vernon there is a home that doesn’t have any people. The Vernon affiliate of Habitat for Humanity, Kelowna Chapter, is now accepting applications for a family for its first home built, currently under construction on 25th Avenue but there have been no applications for the home which has a no-down payment, no-interest mortgage for qualified applicants. “People have a perception of Habitat as helping really needy families but the experience has been that very low-income families have too much difficulty in maintaining the mortgages,” said Brenda DeBoice of the family selection committee. “There are even misconceptions that this is a way to get a free house, maybe because in Third World countries, Habitat is able to help the most needy with very basic housing.”

This is a new concept to Vernon. The core purpose of Habitat is to build homes with partner families and sell the homes, at no profit and no interest, to families who could not otherwise afford ownership. The families that Habitat helps are those who would have difficulty acquiring a downpayment and qualifying for a typical for-profit mortgage. Habitat is not able to give away homes. Families must have the ability to manage a mortgage, in payments of approximately 30 per cent of their monthly income, that is based on the fair market value of the home, over a period of 25 years. “The home for which we currently seek a family is unique in that it is part of a six-plex being constructed through a community partnership. The home is a spacious three-bedroom unit with a balcony and play area outdoors, a garden view from every vantage point, and an urban setting. For this home we seek a family of three with a gross annual income of $28,500, to a family of six with a gross annual income of $44,000. This meets the requirements of this particular community partnership, but allows for the family’s ability to pay the mortgage, without undue strain,” explained DeBoice.

For more information on being a Habitat partner family call 250-545-9482 or email

Vision for park revealed

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 14, 2009 7:00 PM

A safe place to go, friendly for families, lots of features, accessible and attainable. That’s how a refurbished Polson Park would look to City of Vernon staff. Following a consultation process with stakeholders on how to improve Polson Park, and a two-hour visioning session with mayor and council at the park, staff forwarded a report to council, summarizing that “Polson Park should be a safe, family-oriented park, with a variety of high-quality amenities that serve an array of interests, and are unprogrammed, accessible and attainable.” “City and parks staff met after the visioning meeting to discuss the results of that session, results of the stakeholder consultation and to identify preliminary directions...,” said Kim Flick, manager of planning and building for the city. Some ideas put forth by council and stakeholders groups for the park include a possible new track, additional running and cycling trails, an outdoor skating rink, more signage and more seating.Safety for all users was also an important topic brought up during consultation.

Asked about a possible timeline for work beginning on the report, Flick replied “as soon as humanly possible.” However, one councillor noted that a certain amenity was notably absent from the report. Patrick Nicol asked if anything specific was going to be done to replace the historic grandstand, which burned to the ground in an arson fire in 2006. Portable trailers currently sit on the site of the structure. “There was, throughout the consultation, a strong emotional and historic attachment to that structure,” said Flick. “The investigation happened as to whether that seating should be replaced in the park, maybe to a lesser extent. If it’s not replaced to a similar extent, or of the same grandeur, it is highly desirable to recognize the grandstand through signage or pictures, something that would keep the memory of that structure alive in the future of the park.” Flick said staff is considering smaller seating be implemented in the park, such as in the form of metal bleachers, but no final decision on seating has been made. Nicol said the old grandstand and the current bandshell are connected, and that if the city is going to put events on in the park, there has to be some sort of seating structure, and that the city has to get it right. “Clearly, it’s not going to be the size of the previous grandstand, based on this report and what we hear coming out of Greater Vernon Services,” said the longtime councillor. “If you want people to use the park for an event, we have to update...Add a facility that is equipped and can function, not just now, because we’re talking the next 20, 30, 40, 50 years. “To me, that’s one of the critical elements we have to get right if you want people using that facility.”Council voted to send Flick’s report to the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee for its review and consideration, and to the stakeholder groups that provided their input.

City pushing highway project

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 14, 2009 7:00 PM

Vernon’s north end entrance is one step closer to getting a face lift. City council voted unanimously to send a report on landscaping the entrance to its finance committee to come up with the funds needed to spruce up Highway 97, landscaping the median from south of the weigh scales to Stickle Road. Council has three options to consider, ranging from $230,500 to a high of $387,000, and it’s unlikely to receive any funding from the Ministry of Transportation, who must give final approval of the design, for initial construction or long-term maintenance. “It’s indicative of the amount of concern with our citizens about the north end. We’ve been getting letters about it and complaints,” said Coun. Mary-Jo O’Keefe. “It behooves us to listen and to realize how passionately people are concerned.” Coun. Shawn Lee said the majority of tourist traffic in Vernon enters from the north end. “What greets the traffic that comes from the north has been awful for years and years and years,” said Lee. “It just doesn’t send the right message, the right feeling about our community. We have a wonderful community.”

Spearheading the desire to beautify the north end is Swan Lake Nurseryland, located right at the heart of the entrance. The company is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2009, and owner Mike Kowaluk has expressed a desire to clean up the entrance with the city. So much so, Kowaluk said he would donate $130,000 in material and labour to the project. “He’s very enthusiastic about this project, he wants to do something for the community,” said Shirley Koenig, the city’s operations manager. However, Koenig did say this is a one-time offer from Nurseryland. “In honour of their 50th anniversary, they want to do a project that benefits the community,” said Koenig. “If this project doesn’t get done, he won’t support the project next year.”

The project also lies in the jurisdiction of regional district Area B, BX-Swan Lake. Director Mike Gavinchuk has indicated enthusiasm about the project and his checking to see about possible regional district funding for the proposed beautification.

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Moring Star Editorial: Road project worth price

Any chance to enhance our city’s look is a good move, at least in the eyes of city council it is. Council unanimously approved for the city’s finance committee to come up with some funding to help spruce up the entrance to the north end of town, specifically, landscaping Highway 97 from Stickle Road to the weigh scales. Three options of proposed designs and costs have been presented to council, ranging from a low of $230,500, to a high of more than $387,000. Offsetting the costs is a donation of material and labour from Swan Lake Nurseryland, to the tune of approximately $130,000, in material and labour. It’s really Nurseryland who is spearheading this effort, as they celebrate their 50th year of operation in 2009. To commemorate the event, Swan Lake personnel want to do a major project to give something back to the community it has served for half-a-century. While council should be commended for moving forward with this proposed project – and if they don’t do it this year, Nurseryland has said they’re not interested in helping out in 2010 – one of the overriding questions is the long-term maintenance of the landscaping.

There will likely be no financial help in maintenance – or start-up construction – from the Ministry of Transportation. A city report estimates annual maintenance costs of $20,000 to $30,000, though those costs could decrease depending on the design chosen. As long as the city is prepared to shell out costs, then the facelift is worth the price. As Coun. Shawn Lee points out, the north end entrance – where the majority of Vernon tourist traffic enters the city from – “has been awful year after year after year, and doesn’t send the right message to visitors.” Now’s the time to change the message.

City of Vernon on YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/user/CityofVernon

vfrs final
City Of Vernon 2009 Sandbag Program
Vernon Recreation Centre
Explore Greater Vernon
Vernon Regional Airport
Vernon Water Reclamation Centre

Ranch making improvements

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 14, 2009 7:00 PM

Being called “the evil witch of money” by a staff member brings a smile to Catherine Lord’s face. It means, in her new role as manager of the historic O’Keefe Ranch, Lord is having an impact as she helps to make the facility more visible and fiscally responsible. “I took that as a compliment,” chuckled Lord, explaining to Vernon city council on Monday how she helped lower the ranch’s gas bills by co-ordinating trips to Armstrong and Vernon for supplies, rather than making numerous trips, which led to Lord relating the statement uttered in jest by a ranch staffer. Since beginning her role in mid-May, Lord told council the ranch entered the 2009 season with a three-part action plan which focused on accountability, taking action on a new marketing plan, and improving its community involvement and awareness. The ranch has implemented new cash control measures and purchasing procedures, the main one being that all expenditures must now be pre-approved. As for marketing, Lord said the ranch is upgrading its appearance, saying five students have been hired for the summer through various grants.“There are no vehicles in the heritage parking, the trees have been trimmed, and we’re working with Kal Tire to create a new entrance,” said Lord. “We’re looking to increase on-site signage.”

The ranch also plans to increase its on-site programming. Lord stated that a booth put up in downtown Vernon during the Sunshine Festival promoting the summer’s Cowboy Dinner Show at the ranch, has been a huge help. “The show happens every Friday night and we sold out this past Friday night,” said Lord. “We expect to sell out throughout the summer.” Stage coach rides are held every Sunday, and more events are planned for August, including shows put on by a group called Cariboo Buckaroo Theatre, which has worked with current ranch curator Ken Mather. Lord said one of the aims of the ranch is to make it like “a second Silver Star (Mountain Resort).”

“I don’t think it’s stressed enough and I’d like to see the ranch have a higher profile,” said Lord. “When people have guests, they take them to Silver Star. I’d like them to take their guests to Silver Star and O’Keefe Ranch.” When asked about admissions, Lord admitted that paid entries to the ranch are down. She believes that’s due to tourism overall in the Okanagan and B.C. being down, due to the poor economy, and for bus tours cancelling visits. The ranch will also undertake some capital projects this year, including upgrading its electrical components with monies acquired from grants; a water upgrade at the ranch is in progress; a new roof has been put on the saddle shop; board members donated their time and painted the saddleshop and pottery shop; and Kal Tire is donating the labour for the new front entrance.

Water Quality Update

Written by Peter McIntyre Tuesday, 14 July 2009 13:47 107.5 KISSFM:
A water quality advisory for Greater Vernon is expected to remain in place until Wednesday or Thursday, depending on test results. A BC Hydro power failure Monday night briefly disabled part of the treatment process, meaning some partly treated water entered the system. As a precaution, the elderly, young children and people with weakened immune systems are advised to boil any ingested water for at least one minute. Water manager Al Cotsworth says residents are also asked to conserve water as well, as the outage caused reservoirs to be lowered. He says it's getting better but they're still only about one-third full. People are asked to refrain from watering their lawns, or to delay doing laundry until Wednesday.

B.C. AND KELOWNA INVEST $8.4M IN HOUSING FOR HOMELESS

B.C. Media Release:

KELOWNA – Today’s groundbreaking of a new 40-unit supportive housing development for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness marks the start of construction of Willowbridge, thanks to provincial, municipal and community investments, announced Norm Letnick, MLA for Kelowna-Lake Country. “Across B.C., our government is partnering with municipalities to help British Columbians who are dealing with homelessness put a roof over their heads,” said Letnick. “By creating local jobs and housing with integrated support services, Willowbridge will benefit the community and be a place of transformation for people who are facing many challenges.” The Province is investing $7.8 million in capital infrastructure funding to develop Willowbridge through the Provincial Homelessness Initiative. The initiative integrates housing with support services to help people move beyond temporary shelter to greater self-reliance and appropriate employment.

Willowbridge is also the result of an agreement formed by the Province and City of Kelowna in March 2008 to provide more supportive housing. The city has provided land equity estimated at $564,400 for the development. “Homelessness and affordable housing are important issues facing our community,” said Kelowna Mayor Sharon Shepherd. “Our partnership with the Province to build new housing with support services is a good step towards meeting the needs of our most vulnerable in Kelowna.” The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) – Kelowna and District Branch will oversee the construction and operate and manage the building once open. Construction is expected to be complete by August 2010. “We believe in developing and maintaining partnerships in the community that benefit residents of Kelowna, and this project is a great example of this,” said Shelagh Turner, executive director of CMHA Kelowna. “With the support from the Province and the city, we are able to expand our services and help more people transition to a life off the streets.” Willowbridge is part of an overall $14-billion capital infrastructure program supported by the Province that will create up to 88,000 jobs and help build public infrastructure in every region of B.C. The development is expected to create approximately 54 jobs in Kelowna.

The Province has committed to creating more than 4,000 new housing units under the Provincial Homelessness Initiative. For 2009/10, the Province’s budget for shelters and affordable housing is over $469 million – more than four times what it was in 2001. ‘Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness’ is a website providing a comprehensive and detailed look at provincial programs and services to address homelessness. Visit www.bchousing.org/breakingthecycle for more information.

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Partners and Funding:

The capital cost of this project is approximately $8.4 million:

• The Province is providing $7.8 million in capital infrastructure funding through the Provincial Homelessness Initiative; and
• The City of Kelowna is providing the land equity valued at $564,400.

Vernon\North Okanagan - Vernon officers dismantle grow operation in Lavington

2009-07-14 12:43 PDT RCMP Media Release:

Yesterday afternoon officers from the Vernon/ North Okanagan Detachment executed a search warrant for drugs in the Bluenose Rd area of Lavington. Prior to entering the property they had information that the owner had two large Rottweiler dogs on this property so dog control personnel were brought along to deal with them while they conducted the search. As police officers entered the property one of the Rottweiler’s charged and attacked our police service dog and his handler, our dog received minor injuries. The dog handler was forced to discharge his service pistol to protect himself and our police dog. The injured Rottweiler was quickly caught and taken to the vet by dog control officer’s, the second dog that was on the property was seized as well. The search located 497 plants of various sizes, along with dried marihuana and assorted growing equipment. A 43 year old male is expected to appear at a later date to answer to charges under the Controlled Drug and Substance act. This is an example of the dangers that face our officers on a daily basis dealing with the issues around grow operations and the drug trade. The dog that was injured remains at the vet clinic and is being treated by a local vet.

Pesticide ban on eight-month trial in Surrey

By Kevin Diakiw - Surrey North Delta Leader Published: July 14, 2009 11:00 AM

The City of Surrey is planning an eight-month trial of banning pesticides on civic properties. City staff presented a report to council Monday on "Pesticide Control and Use in the City of Surrey." It recommends that staff undertake public consultation on a possible ban (which might include privately owned land), launch a public education program, and start a trial period where Surrey uses no pesticides to control invasive pests on city property. Surrey has been under increasing pressure from environmental groups, students and its own Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) to stop the cosmetic use of pesticides. It was from that committee last month that Surrey took some of the harshest criticism for being the last major city not to ban the use of cosmetic chemicals.

Due to health concerns, 13 municipalities across B.C. and 150 across the country have enacted bylaws to ban the use of pesticides for environmental purposes. “Surrey is one of the last municipalities in the Lower Mainland without such a regulation,” EAC chair Al Schultze told council last month. “I would say the city is a laggard, not a leader in this regard.” After nearly a year discussing it, the EAC recently presented council with a draft bylaw that would see a ban on pesticides, herbicides and fungicides – except only in the most severe cases where damage to property is imminent. “If Surrey prides itself in providing its citizens with a healthy environment to live in, a bylaw should be in place,” Schultze said. “Let’s adhere to our new civic motto and have the future live here.” Mayor Dianne Watts said shortly after the presentation that her "preference would be not to use pesticides and herbicides at all.”

Learning that this city is behind others isn’t easy to hear, said Watts, who notes Surrey has had much bigger things to deal with – such as crime – in recent years.“The focus has been on issues that took a higher priority,” Watts said. “We’re dealing with this now. And I would suggest that there’s a number of other policies we need to be dealing with, but we’re getting there.”She said Tuesday she was pleased to see the eight-month trial getting underway."I think this is a good step forward," Watts said. "And we'll absolutely monitor it." It's estimated it will cost the city about $1 million annually to manage weeds without the use of chemicals.

Water Advisory

Written by Glen Morrison Tuesday, 14 July 2009 05:22 107.5 KISSFM:
Greater Vernon's water supply is now under a water quality advisory. Last night a hydro poll by the city's Mission Hill treatment plant caught fire taking out the plant's power. Manager Al Cotsworth says it impacts the North Kal water intake, but the whole system's under a water quality advisory..He says they got power restored by 4 this morning, but partially treated water was released, compromising the system. He says until the flow is clear we're advised to boil our water.
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CASTANET: Jul 14, 2009 / 6:54 am
The Regional District of North Okanagan - Greater Vernon Water in conjunction with Interior Health has issued a water quality advisory effective immediately for users serviced by the North Kalamalka Lake supply. Current water quality is rated as fair due to a BC Hydro power failure that disabled part of the treatment process. Water supply was reduced soon after the power failure but some partly treated water did enter the system. This means all systems operated by Greater Vernon Water in Vernon, Coldstream, Spallumcheen and Areas B, C and D of the Regional district are currently on a Water quality Advisory.

Greater Vernon Services - Water and Interior Health recommend that children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, and anyone wishing to seek additional protection drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice.

For these at-risk populations, water intended for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute. Greater Vernon Services - Water is taking additional steps to reduce risk. Interior Health has been fully involved, and the public will be notified when conditions change or water quality has improved. The power was restored early this morning and treatment was restored. This Water Quality Advisory will be lifted when testing indicates the water supply was not affected by the power failure. The power failure also reduced the water supply to the system. Greater Vernon Water asks all residents to reduce water use until the treated water supply has been restored to normal operating levels.

If you have any questions, please contact Greater Vernon Water at 250-550-3702 or check our website at www.greatervernon.ca or www.rdno.ca for notifications, the daily turbidity index and turbidity FAQ’s.

Pesticide ban

Peter McIntyre Tuesday, 14 July 2009 107.5 KISSFM:

It'll take the city of Vernon more time to implement a cosmetic ban on pesticide use. Council will stay with its original plan to start the ban on public land in 2010, despite a request from a parents group to start it this summer. Councillor Buffy Baumbrough says one aspect is the cost, noting it would cost an extra 100-thousand dollars to get rid of roadside weeds without using the sprays. She says it's a lot of money and it'll need to be debated during the next budget cycle. City staff are also recommending the purchase of an additional sweeper to remove organic material and seeds from gutter lines to limit weed growth. That would cost 220-thousand dollars.

Council Pay

Written by Peter McIntyre Tuesday, 14 July 2009 107.5 KISSFM
Vernon city council members want to find if they're getting paid enough, for the work they do. City staff will look at other municipalities to see if there's a more equitable system. Mayor Wayne Lippert says the councillors are currently get paid a flat rate, which is just under 20-thousand dollars. He says there's no recognition for the work load with some siting on two or three committees and others on ten plus and they're paid the same. Councillor Buffy Baumbrough feels there should be more compensation for committee work, saying it impacts her ability to do other work.
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Don Quixote Note: My position on this is that any review of Council Remuneration methods should be done in the 3rd year of that Council's term and any changes should be put into effect for the benefit of the incoming newly elected Council.

The last Council unanimously rejected any changes to the compensation formula (Council policy continues to include an annual cost of living increase) in their 3rd year on Oct 14,2008 .

Sex Attack At Pizza Store

Written by Peter McIntyre Monday, 13 July 2009 10:50 107.5 KISSFM:

Police are looking for a suspect after a teenaged employee was sexually assaulted at a Vernon take-out restaurant. RCMP spokesman Gord Molendyk says a man entered Papa Murphy's Pizza Saturday around 1pm, and started speaking to a female staff member in an inappropriate manner. Molendyk told the media, "She told him to leave the business. He followed her to the back of the store. He grabbed her and kissed her when she screamed and ran away from the store." The girl then called a supervisor who contacted police. Molendyk says he's surprised the girl was the only one working in the store at the time. "I'm not a hundred percent what the WorkSafe BC regulations are. I know that for evenings they can't work alone and some of the establishments have different regulations than others."

The man is described as Caucasian, in his late 20's, about 5 foot 8 with a stocky build, clean shaven with black or dark brown hair. He was wearing a blue hoodie with a white logo on the front. Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to call police.

Director slams sediment pond

Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star Published: July 11, 2009 12:00 PM

Taking away part of a park to put in a pond to collect sediment isn’t sitting well with a politician. Mike Macnabb, BX-Silver Star director, is vocally opposed to a report that recommends constructing a sediment pond at BX Ranch Park to help alleviate sedimentation problems with BX Creek. “We’re going to take away four per cent of BX Ranch Park, and it’s not going to be palatable for most people, myself included,” said Macnabb, following a presentation by the City of Vernon to the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee Thursday. “I think there are other alternatives that haven’t been fully explored. I can’t see this going forward as being prudent at all. I think we’re jumping into this thing because it’s expedient and convenient. I can’t support that.”

The watershed improvement plan is a venture started by city in 2006, and involving the ministries of transportation and environment. The plan calls for removal of debris and sediment from BX Creek to protect against flooding by enhancing the creek bed structure, and the adjacent riparian areas along the creek. “Many parts of the creek have become heavily aggraded to the point where the creek has left its natural boundaries, and poses an increased flood threat to residents and properties of Greater Vernon,” said Rob Dickinson, the city’s manager of engineering. The blueprint for the pond is one hectare with a volume of about 1,700 cubic metres, likely to hold water year-round to a depth of two metres.A wood post and wire fence will be installed to prevent access to the pond.

Yearly maintenance of the pond will occur at a time approved by the Department of Fisheries. An easement to the pond is proposed along the west side of the site through the existing parking lot. The report said putting the pond at the park will have minimal impact on park users and the functionality of the park, pointing out the park is located on 27 hectares, while the pond would measure approximately one hectare. “The proposal is for the regional district to provide land for the sediment pond, and in return, the City of Vernon will provide $32,000 worth of trail construction or cash,” said Dickinson. In 2008, GVAC was advised of a proposed sedimentation pond to be located at BX Ranch Park, which is a highly popular dog walking park.

It was also a spot used by the city to dump snow after it had been cleared from city streets. Director Gyula Kiss expressed concerns about salt from the road finding its way into the creek. But director Buffy Baumbrough pointed out that the sedimentation occurring in the creek is impacting the value of BX Creek as a fish habitat. “That deserves consideration,” she said. Macnabb remained unmoved, saying the city’s final draft report doesn’t clearly list BX Ranch Park as the desired place for the pond. “We’re going to take four per cent of the park to put in an industrial application. Parks are important. This doesn’t enhance the park.”

In the end, GVAC directors recommended to the North Okanagan Regional District that it enter into an agreement with Vernon to use one hectare of BX Ranch Park for a sedimentation pond. Macnabb and Kiss were opposed.

Queen gives Chrétien Order of Merit

CBC NEWS JULY 13:

Queen Elizabeth has appointed former prime minister Jean Chrétien to the Order of Merit, placing him in the exclusive ranks of such figures as Albert Schweitzer, Mother Teresa and Nelson Mandela.

The award, founded in 1902 by King Edward VII, is given to "individuals of exceptional distinction in the arts, learning, sciences and other areas such as public service," according to a news release from the press secretary of the Queen. The Order is restricted to 24 members as well as additional foreign recipients, the official website of the British Monarchy said. "There are very few foreign recipients, although those given the Order have included Dr. Albert Schweitzer, Gen. [Dwight D.] Eisenhower, Mother Teresa of Calcutta and Nelson Mandela," the website said.The actual presentation is not expected to be made for several months.

Peach City going for the gold

by Castanet Staff - Jul 11, 2009 / 8:00 am

Penticton has accepted the Challenge. The Peach City wants to be GamesTown 2010 and is asking all residents to help the city come out on top. Three B.C. communities will be chosen as the Gold, Silver or Bronze winners and will receive funds to put towards sports or healthy living facility improvements of their choosing. Gold will be worth $100,000, Silver $50,000 and Bronze $25,000. City of Penticton recreation supervisor, Lori Mullin, says all Penticton residents are encouraged to visit the GamesTown website and upload local active living stories, pictures or videos. “Tell the world how individuals and organizations in Penticton are making a difference in supporting sport, healthy living, sustainable development and of course, the Olympic Games spirit,” says Mullin. She says it is important for residents to take the Healthy Living Pledge. “Once you've found Penticton's Community Profile Page, create an entry and make your personal healthy living pledge which enters you in the contest to win some amazing prizes, including tickets to the opening ceremonies of the 2010 Games.” Mullin says Penticton has already won an early bird prize of a community visit by an Olympic or Paralympic athlete.
The grand prize winner will be judged at the end of the year on a variety of healthy living and environmental sustainability criteria, creativity and enthusiasm.
Link: Penticton's GamesTown2010 page

LINK: Vernon Games Town 2010 Page
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Don Quixote Note: To date Vernon has ONLY 3 entries (Penticton has 4).
You must have s0me pictures, Great Vernon Stories or make a Video (Get your kid shows you do that). Post them and win $100,000 for your City to spend towards sports or healthy living facility improvements of your choosing.

The $700 Billion Bailout Crisis explained

July 10 US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner testified before Congress on new rules proposed by the Obama Administration's to regulate Wall Street.Geithner: Derivatives Blind-Sided the Government

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Original SEPT 27, 2008 POST:

Joe goes to the track and bets $2 on a horse.

Two guys standing nearby get into a discussion and Fred says to Sam, “I’ll bet you $5 that Joe wins his bet.”

Next to them are Bill and Bob. Bill says: “I’ll bet you $10 that Fred welshes on his bet if he loses.”

Next to them is Sally. Sally says: “For $3 I’ll guarantee to Bill that if Bob fails to pay off, I’ll make good on the bet.”

Sally then goes to Mary and borrows the $7 needed in case she has to ever pay off and promises to pay back $8. She doesn’t expect to every have to pay since she believes Bob will always make good. So she expects to net $2 no matter what happens to Joe.

A quick calculation indicates that there is now 2+5+10+3+7 = $27 riding on the outcome of the horse race.

Question: how much has been “invested” in the horse race?

Wait for it: Answer:

$50,000 by the owner of the horse who is expecting to recoup his investment from the winnings of the horse and other future deals. Everyone else is gambling, not investing.

So, when Hank Paulson and his golfing buddies go to the track and lose the rent money playing the ponies, we should pay up?

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RDF Sept 25

The issue with the home market is that the only "investor" was the person who bought the home. All those engaged in the meaningless derivatives spun off from this are gambling. You can see how quickly the face value of all these side bets can exceed the underlying investment. Who is holding these side bets - not the homeowner? It is the people at the failing investment banks, hedge funds and similar enterprises. Notice that the bailout is being directed at them not the homeowners.

The real world is, of course, even more complicated. Over the last 30 years people have been allowed to place bets on everything starting with the value of stock averages. They might as well bet on the temperature in Newark at 8:00 AM.

So when you hear everybody saying this is a crisis caused by the housing collapse, be skeptical. We are in the midst of a classic pyramid or Ponzi scheme and there is no way out except for people to lose a lot of money. All that is different this time is that it is the taxpayers who are being asked for the cash.

Banishment becomes the law on WFN reserves

Jason Luciw - Kelowna Capital News Published: July 10, 2009

Serious criminal offenders are living on borrowed time on the Westbank First Nation’s two Westside and three Kelowna reserves. WFN council secretariat Kirk Dressler is one of three lawyers who has worked with Chief Robert Louie and council to implement the band’s new Community Protection Law, which was adopted last week. Dressler said the law will allow the band to impose restraining orders on repeat drug offenders, sexual predators and people convicted of serious violent crimes, ranging from aggravated assault to murder. Both native and non-native offenders will be subjected to the law on reserve land.

“These types of individuals are identified as a significant threat to the community,” said Dressler. “The restraining order will limit the individual’s right to access areas surrounding community facilities, buildings owned by the Westbank First Nation, churches, schools, day cares, bus stops, parks and other amenities like biking paths.” A 500-metre buffer will be established around the sites, preventing the individuals from accessing virtually all populated areas of the reserves, said Dressler. Offenders will be given a map showing the areas they are precluded from entering, he explained. If the individual owns property on the reserves, however, the Westbank First Nation is incapable of preventing them from accessing their holdings, noted Dressler. Therefore, the band would impose restrictions on how the individual could access and leave the property.

Under the new law, the band has specific criteria it must follow before imposing the restraining order. For example, chief and council must hold a hearing where offenders have the right to legal representation. “If council is satisfied that the restrictions under (the offender’s) probation, some form of treatment or other mechanisms are sufficient to address the threat that these individuals present then no action will be taken,” Dressler said.

Dressler was asked how chief and council could have jurisdiction, limiting an individual’s mobility rights. “Council is asserting its authority over Westbank lands,” he explained.“It has jurisdiction under the (WFN) self government agreement with respect to peace, order and public safety.” Provisions in the band’s law will allow the individual to appeal the order. The offender’s case can also be reviewed annually. The restraint can be temporarily suspended if the offender needs to return to band lands for compassionate reasons.

The law was proposed more than a year ago, following pressure from both members and non-band members living on Westbank First Nation land, who wanted action taken to protect reserve land from serious criminal offences, said Dressler. “This law is without precedent in this province or this country and not just on First Nation lands,” said Dressler. “It is thorny territory and there are constitutional issues and we are well aware of that.” However, the Community Protection Law was created on the basis that a dangerous offender’s mobility rights must be balanced against a greater social purpose. “Council must be reasonably satisfied that the presence of the convicted person poses a significant threat to the health, safety or well being of any person on WFN lands,” Dressler continued, “and, that there is no other way to reasonably reduce the threat.”

The band will work with RCMP to identify cases where orders should be considered. With passage of the law, it will now proceed to an implementation stage, allowing lawyers to refine rules concerning how hearings will be conducted, said Dressler. Following that, the band will properly apprise all residents living on band land of the law’s existence and purpose. Chief Robert Louie was on vacation and unavailable for comment.Kelowna RCMP Supt. Bill McKinnon did not return a call requesting comment before press deadline.