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Abbotsford News Friday, March 14, 2014
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Coach charged with sex offence Abbotsford man accused of Langley incident An Abbotsford man who coaches gymnastics in Langley has been charged with sexual interference. John William Henry, 32, was arrested last Thursday (March 6) and has been remanded in custody. He next appears in court on Friday, March 14. Henry coaches with the Langley Gymnastics Foundation. Cpl. Holly Marks, media relations officer with the Langley RCMP, said police began their investigation last Thursday after receiving a report alleging inappropriate conduct by Henry.
The Langley RCMP’s serious crime unit is handling the continuing investigation and would like to hear from anyone with information that could further their efforts, Marks said. She said further details about the alleged incident will not be released because the matter is now before the courts. Marks said the Langley RCMP’s client support and victim services is available to provide support and guidance to those impacted by the investigation.
Abbotsford and Mission to review railroad safety
Matsqui Prairie Dyking, Drainage and Irrigation District ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Residents and homeowners of the Matsqui Prairie Dyking, Drainage and Irrigation District are welcome to attend the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, March 26, 2014 at 7:00 pm, in the Matsqui Community Hall, at 33676 St. Olaf Avenue, Abbotsford, BC. For more information, please contact Rob Isaac, Director of Wastewater and Drainage, at 604-864-5514 or risaac@abbotsford.ca.
Calling All Performers Have a great act that you would love to perform on Canada Day? We want to hear from you. Every July 1, main stage comes alive with local performers. 10-15 min. slots available. Canada Day regularly attracts an average of 14,000 guests. Please send a video clip and your information to Tamaka Fisher, City of Abbotsford Arts & Heritage Coordinator at tfisher@abbotsford.ca by April 30, 2014. Your submission will be reviewed by the Canada Day Entertainment Committee. This years’ theme is “Beach Party” so submissions best related to the theme will receive better consideration.
Abbotsford and Mission will work together to review the issue of railroad safety and the transport of dangerous goods through the communities. Coun. Jeff Jewell of Mission and Coun. Henry Braun of Abbotsford submitted a report to their respective councils Feb. 17, suggesting the cities undertake a study to identify the exposures, estimate risk levels, and recommend any risk mitigation options of rail transport. Though the responsibility for rail safety and regulation falls on the federal and provincial govern-
ments, the report states that municipalities have a responsibility to ensure the health and safety of their residents and to keep first responders up to date on the necessary safety protocols. The report calls for the process to include meetings and correspondence with the operating companies involved, as well as appropriate federal and provincial regulatory bodies. Jewell told Mission council, “I don’t know if we can do a whole lot. At the very least we need to learn a lot more about what the risks are and try to get the atten-
tion of authorities and maximize safety in our community.” Braun said that he is not opposed to transporting dangerous goods, but there are increased concerns in light of recent rail accidents in North America that should be addressed. A report from Abbotsford city manager George Murray suggested that as the issue affects a number of Fraser Valley municipalities, council may wish to contact other cities to work together, allowing them to share any potential legal fees associated with a study.
IMAGINE WHAT ABBOTSFORD WILL LOOK LIKE IN 2020 Maybe you can see our city having lower taxes, creating a better environment for small business, stimulating jobs, improved transit or solving social issues. WE ARE ASKING YOU...
WHAT IS YOUR BOLD IDEA FOR ABBOTSFORD? Our goal is to stimulate conversations from Abbotsford residents to bring ideas and issues to the table for this year’s review of the Official Community Plan and the fall Municipal election. Also, BOLD Forums will be held for your opportunity to submit your idea(s) in person. Dates will be posted on the website below.
TO PARTICIPATE: Complete the online form (it will only take a few minutes) at
www.abbotsford2020.com
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