Issuu

Local farmers have my support! Serving the Creston Valley since 1948

Volume 66, No. 16

Thursday, April 17, 2014

$1.10 (includes GST)

Creston Valley farmers and supporters gathered outside the Creston and District Community Complex on Friday to protest changes to the Agricultural Land Reserve.

Lorne Eckersley

AKBLG wants further consultation on ALR plan BY LORNE ECKERSLEY Advance Staff

The Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Governments has passed an amended resolution requesting the provincial government to delay passage of Bill 24. Delegates to the convention, including regional directors, mayors and councillors through-

out the east and west Kootenay and Boundary regions, passed by a throng of protesters and tractors on Friday morning before entering the meeting site in Creston. The rally was organized to express opposition to proposed legislation that would divide the province’s agricultural land into two zones, with Creston Valley relegated to Zone 2, joining less

TODAY'S WEATHER

This week's weather artist:

AKBLG conference a success Page 3

Daedra Damery, Erickson Elementary School

DISCOVERY REAL ESTATE

productive lands in north and central B.C. “This is the kind of bill that doesn’t allow a chance for people to talk to one another,” said Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Area E director Ramona Faust. Earlier, stopping to speak to rally participants, Creston Mayor Ron Toyota and RDCK Area C director Larry Binks expressed

support for moving the Creston Valley into the Zone 1 category, where it would be joined with Vancouver Island, Southwest and Okanagan regions. Zone 1 would generally maintain the status quo for lands in the Agricultural Land Reserve. Zone 2 lands will be more easily opened up to other forms of development, including liquid natural gas development in the northern half of the province.

“The support we have been hearing from local government delegates has been overwhelming,” said Nadine Ben-Rabha, one of the rally’s organizers. She is part of a family-run farm in Lister that produces organic milk and cheese, leasing land from 27 different landowners to grow cattle feed. See RESOLUTION, page 4

• Things growing at Root and Vine Acres /9 • Midget team wins Yelnats Cup /30 FIND US ONLINE AT

WWW.CRESTONVALLEYADVANCE.CA

Canada Post Publications Agreement 40069240

What Moves You? www.remaxcreston.com

Michael Carpenter Broker/Owner

Sheldon Browell

Tyler Hancock, ABR, PREC

Ingrid Voigt

Daryl Porter

Sara Malyk

428-6594

428-6805

428-9916

402-3498

402-9339

435-0071

2 Ofﬁces to Serve You! 1013 Canyon St. Creston • 106 33rd Ave. S. Hwy. 3 Erickson

Toll Free 1-877-428-2234 OFFICE 250-428-2234

100% LOCALLY OWNED AND INDEPENDENTLY OPERATED

CONTACT YOUR RE/MAX EXPERT TODAY!

2 www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca

ith the School District No. 8 (Kootenay Lake) board scheduled to vote April 22 on the

small-town

Thursday, April 17, 2014 Creston Valley Advance

DIFFERENCE sponsored by PYRAMID BUILDING SUPPLIES THE

staff recommendation to move Homelinks from the Creston Education Centre to Canyon-Lister

Elementary School, a petition has been created to support leaving the program where it is.

NOW OPEN MONDAYS STARTING JUNE 24 • 250-428-SHOW (7469) CLOSED MONDAYS • 250-428-SHOW (7469)

SHOWTIMES 7:30PM

THE TIVOLI THEATRE PRESENTS...

Animated

Friday April 18 - Thursday April 24

Sat & Sun Matinee 2pm

Playing 2D Sun & Tues

Coming Attractions: Captain America, Muppets Most Wanted, Amazing Spiderman 2

Time for a Spring

Makeover!

Facelift products available at

PYRAMID BUILDING SUPPLIES LTD.

Your “Small Town Difference” Sponsor

1220 NW Blvd. Creston BC 250-428-7114

TIME TO PLA

! NT

• Ornamental Trees & Shrubs • Seeds • Soils • Seed potatoes • Onion sets • Fruit Trees - Bare Root & Potted • Perennials • Berry Bushes • Vines

LARG OF Q E SELE C UALI TY P TION LANT S

Brian Lawrence

Extra Foods staff members were recently presented with a thank you card from Canyon-Lister Elementary School students, who have been enjoying a hot breakfast with food donated from the local store this year. (From left) Donna Amas, Jojo Mckinnon, Lenora Vanderweyde and owner Ryan Leeming cooked breakfast recently, prior to the assembly in which principal David Falconer (right) introduced the donors to the students.

“I, a resident of ••• Creston or surroundreston’s High ing area and of the Country age of majority, Adrenaline is taking request that Creston part in The Search, a Homelinks remain in the Creston Education Wild TV series in which teams compete Centre, and motion to become Canada’s that SD8 and all those next outdoor star — involved absolve any and your votes are recommendation on needed to make it relocating,” says the happen. petition. The Creston team is It can be found and comprised of Andrew, signed at http:// Cyndi and Tomm tinyurl.com/k3zeenw, Hills, and Jason and the link can also Powell. be found on the “All of the outAdvance’s Facebook doorsmen in the series page. The petition’s creators are hoping for are rookies to outdoor television bringing a 1,000 signatures; 67 unique feel to the had been received by (MJHP TZY \JJPQ^ Ć^JWX viewer,” says www. Tuesday morning.

AND SAVE!

(MJHP TZY \JJPQ^ Ć^JWX (MJHP TZY \JJPQ^ Ć^JWX (MJHP TZY \JJPQ^ Ć^JWX (MJHP TZY \JJPQ^ Ć^JWX AND AND SAVE! SAVE! Browse ﬂyers from your favourite national and local retailers

AND SAVE!

• Trellises

AND SAVE!

hitmensearch.com, where each voter can vote once a week. •••

he Boundary County Fairgrounds in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, will host the Earth Day Fair from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. April 26. This allows visitors to share new ideas, activities and practical information centering on the theme of reducing, reusing, repurposing, recycling, and sustainability. All the fair activities are free. Additional activities are scheduled that

weekend to celebrate Earth Day. On April 25, there will be a Barnyards and Bones Tour of Boundary County. Riders can catch a bus to tour two farms (alpacas, horses, lambs, and cows), and then be the first group to visit the newly constructed Bone Museum. April 27 will feature a birds of prey rescue presentation at 1 p.m.. For more details and a full schedule, contact Rhea Verbanic at 208-290-2720 or Colet Allen at 208267-8130 or visit www.bonnersferry chamber.org.

Friends of the Library invite you to our

Browse flyers from your favourite national and local retailers Browse flyers fromyour yourfavourite favourite national and local retailers Browse flyers from national and local retailers

• Pottery

Browse ﬂyers from your favourite national and local retailers

...and More!

OPEN Featured Retailers Featured Retailers

Featured Retailers

Featured Retailers Featured Retailers

Open 7 Days a Week • Gift Certificates Available Mon - Sat 9:30 - 5:00 • Sundays 10:00 - 4:00 250-428-2062 2915 Hwy #3 - ½ mile east of Creston, BC

Visit Visit ﬂyers. deals.savings savings tips. ﬂyers.coupons. coupons. deals. tips. Visit

Morris Garden Centre Sunday, April 27 12 noon to 3 pm

• Book Sale • Door Prize • Coffee & Cake Join us and help support your library!

LOcaL news

Creston Valley Advance Thursday, April 17, 2014

www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca 3

Professionals Connecting Professionals

RECRUITMENT

Staffing Shortages? Get the help you need. Fast!

1-855-678-7833

Creston raises bar with AKBLG conference BY LORNE ECKERSLEY Advance Staff

“You have set the bar high for future events,” Regional District of Central Kootenay chair John Kettle said on Sunday, congratulating organizers of last week’s Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Governments annual conference. More than 200 delegates and guests drove into Creston April 9 to take part in the three-day event, with most of the meetings and events held at Creston and District Community Complex. “The substantive meetings, venues, tours, culinary delights, entertainment, local wineries and attitude of ‘welcome to the Creston Valley’ were not only contagious but they very clear115 Thorncliffe Park Drive ly showed that small communiToronto Ontario M4H ties can hold an1M1 event of this 416•696•2853 type,” KettleTel said. Delegates started off April 9 with a choice of four tours designed to showcase the diverse Creston Valley economy. Buses transported groups

to Columbia Brewery and the wastewater treatment plant (which the brewery partners in funding), Wynnwood Cellars winery and Wynnwood sawmill, Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery (where Kootenay Meadows was also represented), and Wayleen Farms dairy and the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area. Following an afternoon of presentations, a reception and barn dance was held at Creston Flat Stables. Thursday’s schedule was packed with meetings and presentations, highlighted by keynote speaker Stockwell Day, whose 25-year political career included stints in the Alberta government and Canadian Parliament. He held cabinet positions in both.23302 Docket: He started on247 a light note. - JWT Client: “I’m not used Participation to warm recepAds Job Name: tion,” he Contact: joked. Lara “Normally in Vanderheide Production Lorne Eckersley political life you stand up and Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery owner Bob Johnson (right) gives Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local get booed and jeered. And that’s Governments delgates a tour of just from your colleagues!” B:5.8125” Creston Valley Minor Baseball T:5.8125” See AKBLG, page 5 S:5.8125”

his Erickson facility during last week’s convention.

REGISTRATION

at Activity Base 1126 Canyon St. • 9:30-5:30 Mon - Sat

Want to stay young at heart?

Fees T-ball .....................................ages 4/5 & 6/7 ................. $60 Cal Ripken Minor & Major ...ages 8-10 & 11/12 ........... $75 Jr Babe Ruth (requires travel to games in Cranbrook & Kimberley) ...............................................ages 13-15 ....................... $75

League games start the week of Monday, April 28. Coaches & teams need to be organized in the next two weeks, so REGISTER NOW! Creston Valley Youth Soccer Association

SOCCER SEASON T:6”

B:6”

S:6”

has begun!

ONLINE REGISTRATION continues until April 30 Credit card payment only

www.crestonvalleysoccer.com

FREE professional solutions are just a phone call away. Connect with BC’s FREE Physical Activity Line (PAL) and speak with qualiﬁed exercise professionals* who will provide you with custom physical activity plans, no matter what your age or health level. Get in touch with PAL and get active today!

Always FREE. Always Helpful.

1-877-725-1149

PhysicalActivityLine.com In partnership with

*Our professionals are specially trained to prescribe exercise to people of all ages, abilities, and medical conditions.

Check website for ﬁeld and practice times. Only registered players will be allowed on the ﬁeld.

4 www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca

Follow the Advance online facebook.com/cvadvance twitter.com/CrestonAdvance

BOAT PERMIT RENEWAL NOTICE CVWMA (Sirdar) 2014/2015

Boat Permits must be renewed annually for any boat stored on the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area at the designated storage area in Sirdar Boat permits for 2013/2014 expired on March 31, 2014. Renewal reminder letters were sent to 2013/2014 boat permit holders in March 2014. Any boat currently being stored at the designated storage area not displaying a valid 2014/2015 permit decal by April 30, 2014 will be removed from that location. Permits may be purchased at: CVWMA Administration Ofﬁce, 1874 Wildlife Road, West Creston Cost: $25 (including GST) Valid: until March 31, 2015 Permits may also be obtained on our website: www.crestonwildlife.ca

The decal may either be picked up at the Administration ofﬁce or mailed to you

Ofﬁce hours: Monday to Friday • 9am to 4 pm

SPRING YARD AND GARDEN CLEAN-UP Spring collections will be on April 22, 23 & 24 The Spring Yard and Garden Clean-Up is conducted by Town crews and its purpose is to dispose of prunings from trees, shrubs and bushes, leaves, grass clippings, garden waste, and other compostable articles from yards not picked up during regular collection. No other items will be removed. Trees or brush should be cut into three (3) foot lengths and wrapped in bundles. Grass clippings, leaves, etc, must be placed in rigid containers: e.g., garbage cans. No Plastic Garbage Bags Will Be Accepted. On your pick-up day, please keep all compostable materials separate from household garbage and place at the curb for pick-up. For information on the Regional District Landfill site, please call the Regional District of Central Kootenay at 1.800.268.7325 or visit their website:

www.rdck.bc.ca/environmental/waste/rdck_waste_facilities_hours_of_operation.html

If you have any questions, please contact the Public Works Department 250-428-2214, ext. 620

Organic Waste Management April 12, 19, 26 • May 3, 10, 17 In an effort to reduce back yard burning, the Town of Creston is offering residents the opportunity to dispose of their organic yard waste. The Town-controlled drop off location is situated at the south end of the Waste Water Treatment Plant, which is via Davis Road. The site will be available to residents only on April 12, 19, 26, May 3, 10 & 17, 2014, between 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. Accepted yard waste includes tree prunings, grass clippings, leaves and other plant matter. Load volumes will be limited to residential quantities only. Materials must be sorted with plastic bags, twine or other bundling material removed. It is recommended that grass clippings and leaves be brought in garbage cans and not plastic bags. Please note that the Town’s annual spring curb-side pick-up of yard and garden clean-up waste is scheduled for April 22, 23 & 24, 2014.

Colin Farynowski

Manager of Engineering

LOcaL news

Thursday, April 17, 2014 Creston Valley Advance

Grow-op items, threats between sisters, stolen cash part of RCMP week BY LORNE ECKERSLEY Advance Staff

Creston RCMP responded to 58 calls for service from April 7-13, Staff Sgt. Bob Gollan said on Monday. April 7 •A quantity of marijuana grow-op paraphernalia was dumped near Arrow Creek Road. •An owner reported mischief done to a vehicle parked on Canyon Street. No damage resulted. •A report from a person about a hit and run in Edmonton was passed on to Edmonton Police Service. •A well-being check of a female on Third Avenue South indicated no problems. •No entry was gained after a door was damaged at an Ash Street residence. •A complaint about email threats between an estranged couple was made from 22nd Avenue North. •Police attended an Airport Road residence to keep the peace while a person moved possessions out. April 8 •A blue bike with saddlebags was stolen from a Seventh Avenue North residence. •Threatening phone messages in a sisters’ dispute were reported from 25th Avenue South. •Police served a violation ticket to a Lyons Road resident on behalf of Sparwood RCMP. •A well-being check on a female on 16th Avenue North indicated she was OK. April 9 •A 911 call through the Topaz Creek Forest Service Road cellphone tower could not be traced. •A driver was ticketed for driving without insurance after he drove into a fire hydrant on Canyon Street. •A black BMX bike with chrome handlebars was stolen from outside Prince Charles

Secondary School. •No injuries were reported after a driver misjudged a corner on Northwest Boulevard and landed in the ditch. •A male attempting to kick in a door on Dogwood Street was gone when police arrived. •A suspicious vehicle reported on Ibbitson Road was gone when police arrived. April 10 •A complaint came from a Highway 3 resident that someone was attempting to get a youth to send nude photos on the Internet. •A male was taken to hospital when police conducted a well-being check at a Highway 3 residence. •A driver stopped on Canyon Street failed a roadside screening test for alcohol and was issued an immediate 90-day driving prohibition. His vehicle was impounded for 30 days. •Police were called to do traffic control at a residential fire on Highway 3/95. April 11 •A youth who failed to show up at her Scott Street residence was located a short time afterward. •An unoccupied house on Riverview Road burned to the ground. •A fence on 33rd Avenue South was damaged when a vehicle drove into it sometime after 10 p.m. •Cash was stolen in a break and entry to an Erickson Road business. •A male voluntarily left after causing a disturbance at an 11th Avenue North residence. •When police investigated a complaint about a chainsaw theft, they determined it was part of a dispute over money owed. •A vehicle driven by a 66-year-old male drove into the front of a business on Northwest Boulevard, causing damage. He was issued a traffic violation ticket.

•A speeding vehicle on Highway 21 at Erickson Road was found to be in the control of an already prohibited driver, who had been consuming alcohol. He refused to provide a breath test and was issued a 90-day driving prohibition and his vehicle was impounded for 30 days. •A person refused to leave a 16th Avenue North residence until police were called. April 12 •A vehicle sustained minor damage when the driver attempted a U-turn on Highway 3 and went into the ditch. •Harassing text messages were reported by a Highway 3 resident. •A male found passed out in a 15th Avenue North parking lot was checked out by emergency health serivces personnel, then arrested and held in police cells until sober. He left with a ticket for being drunk in public. •A female youth reported to be causing damage in her home on Fifth Avenue stopped when police were called. •An Ibbitson Road resident avoided being caught up in a secret shopper scam when she attempted to deposit a check to her account at a local financial institution, where she was warned about the scam. •Two females were involved in a heated argument at an 11th Avenue garage sale. April 13 •At a check stop of vehicles on Cook Street at 16th Avenue South, six drivers were issued warnings for failing to obey a stop sign. •A person who was refusing to leave an Erickson Road residence was gone when police arrived. •A wallet found on Sixth Avenue South was returned to the owner, cash and contents intact. “Which just goes to show what a great community we live in,” said Gollan.

Resolution

From page 1 The City of Nelson originally introduced a resolution requesting that regions wishing to be in Zone 1 should not be arbitrarily categorized as Zone 2 “and that the provincial government accept application from local governments that wish to remain classified as Zone 1.” The final resolution was an amended version requesting “that the provincial government undertake consultation with the public, the UBCM (Union of BC Municipalities) and other affected parties, and that Bill 24 not be brought into force until such consultation is complete.” The resolution passed with only a handful of dissenting votes among more than 100 delegates. It will now be referred to the UBCM for further consideration.

Lorne Eckersley

Farmers preparing for Friday’s protest.

Another motion protesting the provincial government’s $200,000 annual administrative funding for the municipality of Jumbo (population: zero) was also passed by a wide margin.

LOcaL news

Creston Valley Advance Thursday, April 17, 2014

www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca 5

Lorne Eckersley

(Left) Former MP and MLA Stockwell Day was an entertaining speaker at the Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Governments convention. (Above) Delegates were treated to dinner and a show at Creston Flats Stables.

AKBLG

From page 3 Day spoke of the importance Canadians thinking about what kind of government they want. “There are different types of systems that worked better, or worked well. There is no perfect system. There is no perfect political party. Every system has its drawbacks.” But systems that allow for free markets and encourage business to thrive have strong track records of improving standards of living, he said, citing South Korea, West Germany and Hong Kong as examples. Free enterprise can produce innovation more quickly and at a lower cost, he said. Google Maps, for example, is a recent indication. “Do you have any idea how many years it would take just (for governments) to write the regula-

tions?” he asked. “It would take years to decide what kind of helmet the guy driving the little camera car would have to wear!” Interference from governments at all levels can reduce choice. He said he once visited at community in which local government had refused to allow a Tim Hortons franchise within its boundaries. “Where did elected people get the sense that they get the choice about what kind of coffee you are going to drink?” he said. “I should be the one who decides if I want to eat fatty foods. Or three donuts. Other people shouldn’t be making that decision for me.” Over-regulation, he said, is a symptom of too much government. Elected officials should have faith in their constituents, working to ease their burdens, not increase them. “When we make regulations we should be asking, ‘Who will die if we don’t put this regulation in

Get the be$t refund possible. Maximum Refund Guarantee

Our Maximum Refund Guarantee* ensures you get all the deductions and credits you’re entitled to. Speak to an H&R Block Tax Professional today Unit B 122 Northwest Boulevard Creston , BC Phone: 250-428-5966

hrblock.ca | 800-HRBLOCK (472-5625) © H&R Block Canada, Inc. At participating offices. Some restrictions may apply. See office for details.*If H&R Block makes an error in the preparation of your tax return, that costs you any interest or penalties on additional taxes due, although we do not assume the liability for the additional taxes, we will reimburse you for the interest and penalties.

place?’ Every regulation is a hurdle and sometimes there are so many hurdles you don’t want to get in the race.” He exhorted governments to keep peoples needs at the forefront. “We need to protect the environment from people who want to hurt us and we need taxes to run our institutions,” he said. “But we need to

become more sensitive to the needs of the people who elected us and less sensitive to the needs of administration.” A gala dinner and dance wound up the festivities in the Creston Room on April 10. Creston Coun. Wes Graham was honoured with a lifetime AKBLG membership for his service as a board member and president of the organization.

The conference ended at 1 p.m. Friday after a morning of workshops and presentations by BC Hydro and a liquid natural gas panel. “The passing of the ‘crown’ for best AKBLG ever was acknowledged by former holders of this event and should serve as lifelong kudos to those who worked so hard over this past year,” Kettle said.

Need a Hand

With Your Taxes? Make tax time less taxing with professional help! Let my 16 years of accounting and tax planning expertise maximize your tax savings. My ﬁrm offers the following services: Individual Tax Return Planning & Preparation Payroll Processing Bookkeeping & GST Return Preparation Corporate Tax Return Planning & Preparation Trust & Estate Return Preparation Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Denne Ahlefeld, CGA

137 - 10 Ave North – Creston – 250-402-6277 Across from the Fire Hall

6 www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca

Opinion Line

Thursday, April 17, 2014 Creston Valley Advance

Setting a new standard

P.O. Box 1279 • 1018 Canyon St. • Creston, B.C. • V0B 1G0 Phone: 250-428-2266 • Fax: 1-250-483-1909 www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca Published Thursdays except statutory holidays Alex O. Carruthers, Founder All rights reserved. Contents copyright by the Creston Valley Advance. Any reproduction of material contained in this publication in whole or in part is forbidden without the expressed written consent of the Publisher. Copyright in letters and other materials submitted to the Publisher and accepted for publication remains with the author, but the Publisher and its licensees may freely reproduce them in print, electronic or other forms. It is agreed that The Creston Valley Advance will not be responsible for errors or omissions and is not liable for any amount exceeding the cost of the space used and then only such portion where the errors actually appeared. We reserve the right to edit or reject any submission or advertisement that is contrary to our Publishing guideline.

Published by the Creston Valley Advance, a division of Black Press Group Ltd. Publications Agreement No. 40069240

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

By carrier: $33.50 (includes GST) Local mail: $50 (includes GST) National mail: $58 (includes GST) Seniors get free month with yearly subscription

CONTACT US Publisher Lorne Eckersley Ext. 206, publisher@crestonvalleyadvance.ca Editor Brian Lawrence Ext. 203, editor@crestonvalleyadvance.ca Sales Co-ordinator Anita Horton Ext. 204, sales@crestonvalleyadvance.ca Circulation/Office Manager Dianne Audette Ext. 200, office@crestonvalleyadvance.ca Production Department production@crestonvalleyadvance.ca

Letters to the Editor

Letters to opinion line are welcome on any topic of local or general interest. Opinions expressed in letters to the editor are those of the writers; publication does not imply endorsement by this newspaper. Letters should be either e-mailed, double-spaced and typewritten or legibly handwritten, and generally not exceed 500 words. Letters will be edited in the interests of style, clarity, legality, brevity and taste, as necessary. The Advance reserves the right to refuse publication of any submission. All letters must be signed and include place of residence and telephone number. E-mail letters to editor@crestonvalleyadvance.ca; drop them off at, or mail them to P.O. Box 1279, 1018 Canyon St., Creston, B.C., V0B 1G0.

The Creston Valley Advance is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and complainant. If talking with the Editor or Publisher of this newspaper does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council within 45 days. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby Street, Nanaimo, B.C., V9R 2R2. For further information, go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

By all accounts, last week’s Association of Kootenay Boundary Local Governments conference was the best ever. For two and a half days, delegates from the southeast portion of the province were treated to an extremely well organized event that involved the co-ordinated efforts of Town of Creston staff, the mayor and town councilors, and many other community members. The AKBLG held a conference in Creston once before, but this one was made much more appealing by the upgrades to the community complex and construction and renovations on the local hotel and motel scene. The addition of the Creston Flats Stables on Indian Road is another tremendous asset. The conference was an excellent mix of work and pleasure, and I shouldn’t go on any longer before I point out that the costs were borne by sponsors and delegate fees. The town’s contribution was entirely inkind, with the work employees carried out being counted as the equivalent of cash. Workshops, seminars and plenary sessions focused on the business of local government, and on updating and educating members on a myriad of topics. It was especially gratifying to hear from delegate after delegate, whose comments about the main venue, Creston and District Community Complex, ranged from complimentary to incredulous. It is a facility we have already started to take for granted and it’s good to be reminded that it’s one of the best in the province. Personally, it was nice to attend a conference in which I wasn’t a participant. As a media representative, I had

the chance to take a step back and just take in the activities. I attended one of several tours designed to give delegates some insight into the Creston Valley economy. At Baillie-Grohman

form of a competition in which six two-rider teams rode horses and separated steers from their pack, by order of numbers taped on their sides. It was a great demonstration of a genuine ranching practice. And it all took place inside a huge 80-by-200-foot building, which also comfortably held tables to seat 200 and a large stage for musicians, as well. Putting together a conference like this is a massive undertaking. Transportation Lorne Eckersley has to be co-ordinated, the business community has to be brought into the mix, food caterEstate Winery, owner Bob Johnson ing arranged, speakers booked, gave guests an excellent tour of the sound systems organized, musivineyard and winemaking facilities cians hired, print materials created, before they were able to sample his venues made suitable — the list is wine. Kootenay Alpine cheeses were almost endless. There are also endwell represented by Nadine Benless opportunities for things to go Rabha, who was also able to promote wrong, many of which can reflect organic products made at the Harris poorly on the host community. family farm. Other delegates visited After attending for much of the Columbia Brewery, the wastewater time, and talking to many visitors, treatment facility, Wynnwood mill though, it became apparent that and Wynnwood Cellars. At Thursday any minor glitches were dealt with night’s trade show reception, before they became noticeable. Skimmerhorn Winery, Tabletree and William Tell were also on hand to pro- Hoped-for blue skies appeared and if anyone didn’t thoroughly enjoy vide samples of wine and juice. the conference they didn’t share At the gala banquet that foltheir feelings with me. lowed, the Creston Room was Interestingly, when I talked to transformed into a place of beauty Mayor Ron Toyota on Monday by decorating geniuses Tracy Floer and Marilin States. High school stu- morning, we discussed comments that this conference had set a new dents provided table service and a bar for communities hosting future spectacular meal made by a team AKBLG gatherings. He insisted that led by Diane Sutcliffe created conthis was not the motivation of the siderable buzz. organizing committee. “We just And the banquet had a tough act wanted to show the Creston Valley to follow. On Wednesday night in a very good light,” he said. guests were transported to Creston Mission accomplished. Flats Stables for a western-themed Lorne Eckersley is the publisher of evening of food, music and enterthe Creston Valley Advance. tainment. The latter came in the

This is the Life

Spring time for annual book sale

The return of the robins, the flowering of the forsythias, the protruding of the pussy willows — these are a few of the familiar signs of spring in the Creston Valley. More recently, a new tradition has come to mark the advent of spring, the annual Friends of the Library garden party and book sale at Morris Flowers Garden Centre, held on the Sunday following Easter (April 27 this year). More than just a book sale — though it is a fabulous book sale with thousands of books and magazines on display, all available by donation — the garden party also features homemade cakes from some of the best bakers in the valley, including Lorne and Angela Eckersley, whose magnificent works of art alone are worth dropping by for! This year, entertainment will be provided by Bellows and Bass, tea and coffee are available and there’s no better time to check out the new stock of plants and seedlings at the greenhouse. Over the years, the Friends of the Library’s book sales and other fundraising initiatives have had an enormous impact on the life of the library in Creston. Founding members Judy Kirkby and Marion Lloyd describe how the focus of the fundraising has changed, “When we started in 1997, our focus was on raising money for a new building. But as time went on,

our focus changed to just making the building we had bearable.” At the time, the library, having been kicked out of its previous home next to Swan Valley Lodge, was

mate, spectacular surroundings and friendly small-town atmosphere, the Friends see an opportunity to both attract new members and provide a great way to welcome newcomers to the valley. “Joining the Friends is a really nice, nonpressure way to get to know people in the community. Our meetings are short, everyone is welcome and we have a lot of fun together,” explains Judy. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at the library, and newcomers are welcome to drop in. In addition to the Friends of the Library, the library offers myriad volunteer opportunities for folks of all ages and backgrounds. We will work with you to find tasks that are appropriate to your interests and skills. Our current volunteers range from AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) students from Prince Charles Secondary School to former chief librarians and library board chairs. Some volunteers come for a day, while others have stayed for over 40 years! The Friends of the Library garden party will take place at Morris Greenhouse from noon-3 p.m. April 27. We look forward to seeing you there! Aaron Francis is the chief librarian at the Creston Valley Public Library.

The Book

Drop

Aaron Francis housed in emergency quarters in the former Jehovah’s Witnesses Kingdom Hall. “We bought a hot water tank, a furnace, just basic needs to help the library survive through a really difficult time,” Judy recalls. When the library finally moved to its current digs in 2006, the Friends kicked in $30,000 to support the move. Nowadays, the Friends operate more like a public service. “We help to recycle books, giving unwanted books a second chance,” Marion explains, “while also helping the library financially with special projects,” such as purchasing a new meeting room projector and tables for the front of the library, supplementing Summer Reading Club costs, and more. As new retirees flock to the valley to take advantage of our mild cli-

Creston Valley Advance Thursday, April 17, 2014

Valley has bigger issues than time To the Editor: What I am about to write is probably fairly selfish, but I simply cannot sugarcoat it. I have lived around here for the better part of 20 years. That is not a terribly long time but I would prefer to live in the Creston Valley for many years to come. I do not think the issue of GMT -0800 versus GMT -0700 should be decided by anyone’s schedule revolving around brain-rotting television, or other dealings with either side, for that matter. I have family in both time zones. I deal with random other people at specific times using the Internet. I do not care for daylight time or running around messing with the clocks in my house. I understand that many seniors endure significant mobility issues, among other problems, encouraging a sedentary lifestyle in front of their television. Similarly, many people have frequent appointments in Cranbrook in relation to medical issues. It still does not change my opinion. If you are so desperate for a specific zone and daylight time, then you should consider moving, since you have plenty of beautiful nearby places to go in each time zone. Those who are happy with the valley and dislike changing their clocks are rather limited in this regard. However, that is not a problem since we appreciate the way time is already handled around here. I want to give a thumbs-up to Bill Cook for his letter (“Time Change a Smooth One in Valley”, March 20). This man has the right idea of relaxing and taking it easy. I cannot speak for others but I get tired of seeing people endlessly whining in the paper about time zones, trying to turn my valley upon its head. Not changing time seems the easiest compromise anyway. Take a page from Mr. Cook’s book and enjoy some peaceful convenience. You know, this could be so much worse — we could be in one of those annoying half-hour time zones! Either way, I would encourage general people to whine about bigger issues that face the Creston Valley rather than what time it is. Ian Strom West Creston

Involvement by U.S. is nothing new To the Editor: (Re: Ukraine unrest part of U.S. plan, March 27) Anton Skerbinc’s letter regarding the destabilization of the Ukraine government is absolutely correct — especially the comment that it is nothing new. It is simply the latest in the long line of U.S. (and British) involvement in such shameful activities. In 1953 the democratically elected Mossaddegh government of Iran was overthrown by a joint effort of the CIA and MI-5 because Mossaddegh was committed to making Iran a true democracy while reducing the power of the shah. The western press painted

OpiniOn Line

this as a “popular uprising”. They then installed the shah, who ruled for 30 years with the most brutal secret service (Savak) engaging in torture of “dissidents” (political opponents) with the full support of the CIA. From 1952, the despot Fulgencio Batista was supported financially and militarily in Cuba by the Mafia and the U.S. government until the Cuban revolution overthrew that tyrant. (He jailed Castro when it looked as though Castro was going to win the election.) On Sept. 11, 1973, (the first 9-11) a U.S.-backed coup overthrew the democratically elected Salvador Allende in Santiago, Chile, — ironically killing over 3000, including Allende when he refused to resign. (Allende had the temerity to challenge U.S. conglomerate food interests on behalf of his citizens.) This was, of course, just a taste of what was to come when Augusto Pinochet took over and was responsible for tens of thousands of deaths and disappearances with the support of such icons as then-U.S. secretary of state Henry Kissinger. Unfortunately, these actions reflect the mainstay of U.S. foreign policy, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend,” which has resulted in so much long-term embarrassment for the U.S. as they try to explain, for example, why Saddam Hussein was an ally yesterday but not today. It’s foreign policy by whim. Anybody who is interested in the history of overt U.S. actions to overthrow governments in other countries can read about them in Overthrow by Stephen Kinzer (available in the Creston library). The covert activities to achieve the same ends are too numerous to list. Freedom to choose is an illusion and the aforementioned activities illustrate the true U.S. definition of democracy, namely: You can have any government that they want. Michael Byrne Canyon

To be a human being is to be a land steward. Whether we feel comfortable in the role or not, we make choices each day about how land is used. Often, we are pressed to make difficult decisions — decisions that ask us to weigh the needs of current generations against the needs of those to come. With the price of food at an all-time low, agricultural landowners face real dilemmas about how to use their land. Sadly, Bill 24 makes no attempt to address the issues that have made it so difficult for Canadian landowners to earn a decent living by farming. Instead, it continues an upsetting pattern of devaluing farming as a way life and squandering farmland that may one day be desperately needed to produce food. The logic behind the bill says that all Zone 2 land is marginal — less capable of supporting productive agriculture and less deserving of protection than land in the mainland, Okanagan or on Vancouver Island. I believe that this label disrespects the incredible fertility of the land in our valley. Indirectly, the bill also insults the people who are struggling to farm that land profitably by suggesting that the best support that government can offer is help turning over the land to non-agricultural use. I urge fellow valley residents to push government to find more sustainable, more respectful ways of supporting Kootenay farmers of today and tomorrow. Land capable of food production is perhaps our valley’s greatest resources and it deserves to be cherished. Laura Hannant Creston

CWF helps seniors to Zone 2 label travel longer disrespects local farmers

To the Editor: I am an aspiring young farmer. My husband and I moved to the area to start a family and follow in the footsteps of generations who have labored to feed people and nourish the local economy in wholesome ways. We chose to come farm in the Creston Valley in part because of B.C.’s legacy of valuing and protecting farmland. Today, that legacy is under threat, as is our dream to make a modest living by growing food for our community. As I write, Bill 24 is being debated in the provincial legislature. The bill proposes drastic changes to the Agricultural Land Reserve and the commission that administers it. It was drafted without properly consulting the public or local/regional governments. The Liberal politicians who have put the bill forward argue that this is their attempt to make life easier for agricultural landowners in the Kootenays and northern B.C. Under the bill, every acre of land in our region and 90 per cent of all land in the ALR will receive a Zone 2 designation, which will open it up for non-agricultural use where landowners see economic, community or other reasons why farming is not the best choice for them.

To the editor: My husband and I love to travel and we own timeshares in the U.S.A. As my husband recently turned 80 years of age, we found that travel medical insurance has dramatically increased in cost for him. He does have a couple of minor health issues, but the main issue is his age. Some companies will not cover him at all, and out of five who would, the cheapest we could find charged $42 per day for emergency medical coverage and trip cancellation until age 85, and then no more coverage. We were alarmed and concerned that this would add $300-$420 to any seven- to 10-day vacation out of Canada. We have always been members of the Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF), and make monthly donations automatically to that group. We noticed a full-page ad in their recent magazine, advertising travel insurance. After calling for a quote, we were delighted to be told that this insurance had no age limit, and, in spite of his health issues, both of us would be covered up to $5 million in emergency medical for just $57 per month, on their family plan. This is available to CWF members only and we pay only a $10 per month donation to be members. While this organization does wonderful work preserving wildlife habitat and protecting endangered species, we can now thank them for extending our travel lives for many years. Signe Miller Canyon

www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca 7

The COVERAGE you need PROTECTION you can trust!

• • • • •

Travel Insurance Personal Insurance Business Insurance Auto Insurance Driver Ser vices

info@crestonvalleyinsurance.com

250-428-2294

www.crestonvalleyinsurance.com Located in the Creston Valley Mall 1000-7 NW Blvd Creston, BC V0B 1G6

Columbia Bottle Recycle Your FULL DEPOSIT Bottle Depot plus....

Friday April 18 & Saturday April 19

“MOCHA” wishes you and yours a happy Easter weekend!

OPEN 9:30 - 4:30 Tuesdays to Saturdays 250-428-2929 • 1420 NW Blvd

THE SERVING AYS KOOTEN 84 19 E SINC

2006 Chrysler Convertible PT Cruiser Sale Price

$9,559

2.4L SPFI, CONVERTIBLE, touring edition in immaculate condition, not winter driven with low KM! Automatic Overdrive, Air Conditioning, Power Windows, locks & mirrors, Tilt & Cruise, Power Convertible Top with boot, chrome wheels. Stk# 13C564B

Kokanee FordRecipient of the 2013 e "Dealer Servic " ard Challenge Aw

www.kokaneeford.com 1241 Hwy #3 Creston BC Phone 250-428-2206 1-800-262-7151 VSA Dealer #7429

Opinion Line

8 www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca

Wealth comes from giving of ourselves

When reading the Fun Pape the other day, I came across a saying by John Henry Jowett that really struck a chord with me: “The real measure of our wealth is how much we’d be worth if we lost all our money.”

The Voice of

Experience Mary Underhill When we sold our home and business over two decades ago, we told the family that we wanted to invest the funds and travel, but warned them there would be little left in our estate. All four immediately said, “Go for it!” so, for five wonderful years, we travelled — Britain, Hawaii, the northern United States and Mexico. We kept going back to Isla Mujeres, for the people, the food, the incredible white sand of Playa Norte, and the magical waters of the Caribbean. We enjoyed it all. Most of all, we realized later, we enjoyed the Mexican people. Many were so poor in possessions, and so very rich and generous within themselves, always with a big smile and greeting for us visitors to their Third World country, and always willing to share what little they had. One of the first memories that comes to mind took place on Isla Mujeres on our last visit. We had a very nice apartment on the second floor of a house in Colonia where most of the inhabitants were native Mexicans. In the yard next to us grew a huge tree that sheltered a lean-to, which was home to a young family, including two small children. The building was mainly “open air” with no real entrance, and nothing much to be seen inside except a large ham-

mock (they all slept together), an ancient hotplate on a rickety table and the loom where the wife supplemented the family income. The washbasin lived under the tree, where the husband scrubbed up after work. The sea was about two blocks away, and I expect that served as their bathtub! This little family obviously had nothing in the way of material belongings (except for a TV — everyone on the island had a TV) but we rarely have seen people as happy and contented and loving as they were. They were wealthy. And then in contrast are the many exceedingly rich people who repeatedly give of their wealth, often anonymously, to those less fortunate, to science, to education, to all manner of nonprofit organizations in need. Paul Newman is one example; he donates all net profits from his food items, which must add up to quite a tidy sum. We have all heard of many more in this group of philanthropist, far and wide. Closer to home, our own dear town of Creston is recognized throughout the province (and perhaps beyond) as having an amazing number of volunteers. In the April issue of I Love Creston, editor Marc Archambalut featured an article, “Volunteerism, the Heart of a Community.” And over the years since we moved to Creston, I’ve often heard comparative newcomers remark on the amazing community spirit in our valley. Volunteering doesn't cost us much financially, but donating part of ourselves is every bit as important, if not more so. So, going back to Jowett’s saying, “The real measure of our wealth is how much we’d be worth if we lost all our money,” it’s true, but not exclusive to losing all our money. Many share their material wealth, others share their “manual” wealth — all know the meaning of self-worth. Life is good. Mary Underhill is a stress therapist and grief counsellor.

AUDITIONS for the comedy

TAPS gets more than a little help from friends

However our days begin, from the first sense of waking, to stretching, feeling our way to each task or moment, we can be sure that it is ours to meet in our own way. Yet, at the same time, we are connected, influenced and are resources for each other.

When I asked how she was gun. In the past nine months, over adapting to her vision changes, I heard the power of her convic- 1,400 hours have been logged tion and saw the determination by volunteers who have helped in her sure hand movements as with regular programs, menshe said, “I’m facing it. … I’m tored students, written The Voice of Experience columns in going to do this.” In order to provide the ser- the Advance, done kitchen vices to our seniors, like this duties (157 hours of dishwashd e t e r m i n e d ing!), participated in craft fundlady, and to raising activities by the Krafty maintain their Krony (including over 230 i n d e p e n - hours of pie making, and 103 dence, yet hours of gift bag making by participate in Colleen Kennard). There were c o m m u n i t y special guests, 65 hours of bus life despite maintenance by Jim Daniels, b a r r i e r s , and regular wellness clinic Maureen Cameron TAPS counts monitoring, foot care and speon volun- cial events. Thanks again to all of you teers. Over Yesterday, as I was getting the years, these men and from the Creston and District ready to leave a Therapeutic women have provided thou- Community Resource Center Activation Program for Seniors sands of hours to the success of and TAPS for the gift of your (TAPS) luncheon, a woman the program. During the week willingness, friendship, hard approached me wondering of April 7-11, they honoured work and showing up. which way I was going and their volunteers’ contributions Because of the work of volunwould I drive her, “if it weren’t through three luncheons. It teers like you, plus the generout of my way.” She usually gets a ride on the TAPS bus, but was the only passenger, and I could save the driver a trip. Seeing her large protective dark glasses and white cane, I guessed she was having vision issues. As we drove to the hospital, she spoke gratefully about the support and resources she’d found through the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB), adding that her children are now buying things Submitted from it to help her in this new Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors staff and members situation. With macular degen- took part in a singalong at a recent volunteer luncheon. eration and inoperable cataracts, she is now facing a certain was the usual camaraderie, fun osity of funders and donors decline in her visual acuity. As and games, and good food along with the talents of our we drove along, she shared a bit topped off with a singalong staff, TAPS is truly a commuof her life, having lost two hus- accompanied by Joanna Wilson nity effort. Call TAPS at250bands and yet gained two fami- on piano, Hans Bringman on 428-5585 to find out how you lies who get along well and are tuba, Ward on harmonica and can participate. And here’s a shout out to all very supportive of her. Living Thelma Johnson on guitar. A on her own is what she wants to western theme matched the volunteers that make our comcontinue doing as long as she spirit of the participants and munity a caring place to live! Maureen Cameron is the comcan. She noted that CNIB and resulted in costume inspired TAPS have the same goal of antics including a pistol wield- munity liaison development cosupporting independent living ing Badgirl Bridget, who kept ordinator for the Therapeutic through enhancing capabilities. everyone in line with her cap Activation Program for Seniors.

Tips from TAPS

CRESTON VALLEY ROTARY CLUB

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

This is your opportunity to nominate an outstanding citizen of the Creston Valley for recognition of their volunteer work to our community. The nominee’s volunteer activities may be in business, government, social improvement, community service, cultural arts, religion, youth work, or any other area of activity that you feel contributes to a better community.

7-9 p.m. April 22 Snoring Sasquatch 221 11th Ave. N. Auditions will be by cold readings from the script 16 roles available

Info? Page 28 or call Gail Kitt at 250-428-2266 Performances run July 10-12 at Prince Charles Theatre

www.facebook.com/CrestonFootlighters

Thursday, April 17, 2014 Creston Valley Advance

Submissions MUST be detailed as to the accomplishments, involvement, and contribution to the Creston Valley of the nominee, or your nomination CANNOT be considered. Attend the Citizen of the Year presentation at the Friday evening Opening Ceremonies of the Creston Valley Blossom Festival celebrations. NOMINATION FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT: Town of Creston - 238 10 Avenue North, or Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce / Visitor Info Centre - 121 NW Blvd, or Creston Valley Advance - 1018 Canyon Street Letters marked “Citizen of the Year - Conﬁdential” can be dropped off or mailed to: Creston Valley Advance, 1018 Canyon Street, Box 1279, Creston, BC, V0B 1G0 Deadline for nominations: April 30, 2014 at noon Unsigned nominations will not be accepted.

ON VALL EST E CR ITCH SO Y

WP O SL

CIE TY

AGM and REGISTRATION $85 Team Deposit Required

Tuesday, April 22, 2014 7 pm Kootenay Room

Creston & District Community Complex

Questions? Please call Jim Ryckman 250-428-2369

Creston Valley Advance Thursday, April 17, 2014

www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca 9

Root and Vine Acres offers farm-fresh veggies, eggs, meat W ith root vegetables, leafy greens, berries, meat, eggs, bedding plants and more, Root and Vine Acres is more than just another farm. “It’s like a little grocery store,” said Jessica Piccinin, who runs the farm with her Story and grandmother, Joy photos by Tomlinson. The farm at 2826 Brian Lawrence Erickson Rd. opened for the season on Tuesday, offering kale, endive, spinach and eggs, as well as bedding and pond plants. Over the course of the summer and fall, tomatoes, onions, leeks, lettuce, radishes, scallions, beets, carrots, cherries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries — and that’s only a partial list — will be added to what’s offered, as will lamb, goat and pork. It’s been a part of the family’s life for over 20 years, and Tomlinson now sells the farm’s products at the Creston Valley Farmers’ Market, while Piccinin regularly sells at two in Nelson. After growing up on the farm, Piccinin wanted nothing to do with it, and headed for Grande Prairie, Alta., to do something completely different — work in the oil industry. “I got out and thought, ‘I’d better go back because I’ve made a bad choice,’ ” said Piccinin. She found that she missed the local lakes and river, so she returned in 2008 to work with her grandma, starting Root and Vine Acres a year later. And while farming hadn’t been her thing, taking fresh produce to the market certainly was. “That’s what hooked me,” she said. “I love going to the market,

being social and seeing the same people each week.” In Nelson, one regular customer was pregnant when Piccinin first met her — the customer’s daughter is now five, and she too enjoys visiting the Root and Vine Acres kiosk. “That’s pretty special,” Piccinin said. While the farm used to grow only plants, fruit and vegetables, Piccinin began raising lamb two years ago, and began raising pigs and goats last year. “I love raising animals, and the fact that I can produce the meat I like to eat is pretty cool,” she said. She also raises free-range heritage turkeys — usually in the 15to 18-pound range — and chickens. “I take pride in the fact that they enjoy a good life,” she said. “They get to scratch and peck around. We want them to work and earn their keep.” The 10-acre farm is constantly changing to meet new needs. Soon, the pig pasture will move farther back on the lot, and will be replaced by a vastly expanded vegetable garden. Those changes — not to mention, of course, seeing baby animals running free — help to keep farm life interesting. “Every year it’s different and I learn something new,” Piccinin said. And while some of that comes from simply working on the farm, a lot more comes from learning from her grandma, who is always happy to greet customers and offer advice. “She knows everything about everything,” Piccinin said. “If I can learn a fraction of what she knows, I’m doing good.”

Jessica Piccinin of Root and Vine Acres with a day-old goat.

Tax, accounting and business services provided for individuals, corporations, not for proﬁt and public sector organizations.

Phone 250-428-2248

KEN GADICKE, CPA, CA

122 - 11th Ave. N. Creston BC V0B 1G0

ERIN CARR, CPA, CA

OPINION LINE

10 www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca

Creston oFFiCe

n e W!

• Uniformed, bonded, licensed security guards • Vacant property checks • Marked Vehicles • Full Service

(250)428-6940 | 1-877-277-9988 impallakootenay@shaw.ca

“A Greener, Cleaner Solution” • OffiCe • COmmerCiAl • HOme State of the Art Carpet and Grout Cleaning Bonded • insured • reliable

ALR important to valley economy

Agriculture is an important part of the Kootenay economy, most notably in the Creston Valley. Much of the land on which we grow our local food is part of the Agricultural Land Reserve. To show

why we need to save the ALR from Bill 24. First, a bit of background: The ALR was founded in 1973 under the BC New Democrat government led by Dave Barrett. It puts some of B.C.’s limited

In Your Corner Michelle Mungall

Green Mountain Janitorial Servicing Cranbrook, Kimberley and now Creston

778.520.2280 or 1.877.277.9988 www.greenmountainjanitorialservices.ca

KITCHENER

Improvement District Annual General Meeting Sunday, May 4, 2014 at 2:00 pm Kitchener Hall

PODIATRY CLINIC with Dr. Joanne Lih Tues Apr 29

Summit Medical Clinic 319 - 15th Ave. N (Dr. Mackay’s Office)

Effective Solutions for: Heel pain, arch pain, heel spurs, bunions, corns, calluses, and toenails Including Orthotics and Preventative routine care

FOR APPOINTMENTS, PLEASE CALL

1-250-304-4792

off all that we grow on ALR, I invited my suburban colleague, MLA Selina Robinson, from Coquitlam to tour farms in the valley. No surprise, she was blown away by all that is grown here. She got why I eat a 100-mile diet. And she left here understanding exactly

farmable land under one zone to protect its value for growing our food. For 40 years, the ALR, with its independent governing body, the Agricultural Land Commission, has proven itself a good practice, and many of its staunchest critics are now its staunchest supporters.

I remember the day well. It was April 2 when I first noticed that it was significantly lighter at a specific time than what it usually was. My normal pattern at 5:30 a.m. was walking tentatively toward the garage and throwing sticks or an old bone to try and get the dog to run forward and trigger the sensor light, thus enabling me to avoid unknowingly stepping on one of said dog’s landmines. We have a fairly smart dog so she usually sits just out of range and watches me stumble around in the dark with my lunch kit and work binder until I manage to get the light to fire, then she happily runs up to congratulate me on another day of surviving the gauntlet. It’s interesting how many people seem to notice the increased illumination all at once — plus sitting in the hot tub at the complex after our

Proceeds to help Darren Douma represent Canada at the World Blind Golf Championships in NSW, Australia.

Dinner, Dance and Silent Auction Friday, April 25

Creston and District Community Centre - Creston Room

$25

Submitted

(From left) Coquitlam-Maillardville MLA Selina Robinson and Nelson-Creston MLA Michelle Mungall paying a visit to Kootenay Meadows dairy farmer Nadine Ben-Rabha.

Bill 24, the Agricultural Land Commission Amendment Act, was introduced in the legislature a few weeks ago and will be up for debate when the Assembly resumes April 28. This bill makes sweeping changes to our ALR. Specifically, it breaks ALR up into two zones overseen by six government-appointed regional panels.

Zone 1 won’t see many changes, but Zone 2 is to be managed quite differently. Zone 2 panels would be required to consider “economic, cultural and social values”, “regional and community planning objectives” and “other prescribed conditions” as set out by cabinet. See ALR, page 13

Pool draws patrons to rec centre

Help “Lefty” Go Down Under

Tickets Available at Paul’s Superette and Creative Fix .00

Thursday, April 17, 2014 Creston Valley Advance

• Cocktails at 5:30 • Dinner at 6:30 Provided by Dick & Marie Douma • Dance at 8:00 Music Provided by Vern Gorham

a growing commitment of how much attention people are placing on a healthy lifestyle. We also had a draw opportunity and on the form we asked a single question, “What is your favourite thing to do at the rec centre?” A quick poll of the results showed 70 per cent liked the pool or any combination of pool/skate, pool/ curl, pool/workout — you get the idea. Tied at 10 per cent were the fitness centre, as well as everything around ice – skating, curling, playing hockey or watching hockey, followed by taking programs or classes at about eight per cent of entries. Purely unscientific, but it gives some idea of interests, or at least based on who we cajoled to approach our booth. Those Neil Ostafichuk of you that have worked trade shows know the dynamics of encouraging ple and hearing how they interact visitors to your booth; some are like baby deer with the community complex or where you don’t look directly at them or move what it means to them. In fact, dur- suddenly for fear of spooking them away, someing my shift at the booth Friday times you can saunter up from behind and afternoon, I had three different peo- nudge them toward the display or have moving ple or couples comment on how the or interesting objects that catch the attention so Creston and District Community you lure them in closer. Once a visitor actually finds out you aren’t Complex as it stands today either made the decision or supplemented going to sell them encyclopedias or insurance, the reasons to settle in the valley. It’s you can have some pretty interesting conversapretty powerful stuff and it indicates tions; there’s always some degree of connection, whether they are a long-term valley resident or new to the community. As a shiny object to Creston & District Community Resource Centre attract visitors, Tia brought down a grip strength FIRST STEPS INFANT TODDLER tester from the fitness studio, which is a device to measure how strong a “squeeze” you can do DAY CARE CENTRE with each hand. You then compare results against has some part time and full time spaces a chart to see if you are fair, average, very good available for children birth to 36 months. or excellent in the appropriate gender. As anothWe are a small intimate setting licensed er purely unscientific study (I’m just full of it for a maximum of 12 children. today) I looked at the results on our little tally Our staff have infant toddler education sheet. First thing I noticed and also from workand experience, and are ﬁrst aid certiﬁed. ing the booth, is that we needed a category higher than 60-69 years as we had people in their First Steps staff nurture and promote 70s and even 80s wanting to try the tester. The each child’s individual development second thing I noticed is that these people, male and female in the 60-80 range are flippin’ tough, with many scoring excellent as compared to younger age ranges scoring as very good or Please phone average. I’m thinking some of those folks pitched a few bales or milked a cow or two in their day 250-428-4839 as part of their fitness program. for more information Neil Ostafichuk is the recreation supervisor at the Creston and District Community Complex. early morning swim watching the light wash over the mountains; there are not many things finer. Hey, did we see you at our booth at the Creston Valley Home and Garden Show the other weekend? It’s always interesting meeting peo-

From the Centre

TV Listings

Creston Valley Advance Thursday, April 17, 2014

Your TV Guide Legend

SERVING THE CRESTON VALLEY SINCE 1948

TV RATINGS:

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 48 49 50

11 9 13 10 19 12 22 3 8 6 23 14

15 18

2 54 64 81 224

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 48 49 50

11 9 13 10 19 12 22 3 8 6 23 14

15 18

2 54 64 81 224

(CC) = Closed Captioning for the Hearing Impaired (N) = New Programming EI = Educational/Instructional DVS = Descriptive Video Services for the Visually Impaired HDTV = High Definition Television iTV = Interactive TV PA = Parental Advisory SS = Closed Captioned in Spanish CI = Cable in Classroom HEADPHONES = In Stereo

MPAA RATINGS: NR = Not Rated G = General Audiences PG = Parental Guidance Suggested

8 AM

8:30

9 AM

9:30 10 AM 10:30 11 AM 11:30 12 PM 12:30

Believing in Heroes ’ Å Children’s Villages Written Gas SportsCentre ’ The Social Å Good Morning KOMO 4 News Hanna Ocean Explore Rescue Wildlife NBA NBA Basketball Chica Noodle Justin Tree Fu Lazy English Premier League Soccer Goal NHL Hockey KIRO 7 Eyewitness News Recipe J. Oliverr Dr. Chris Paid Paid NCAA March PGA Tour Golf Morning News News News English Premier League Soccer Goal NHL Hockey English Premier League Soccer Barclays English Premier League Soccer Goal Hockey English Premier League Soccer Match Blue MLB Baseball Toronto Blue Jays at Cleveland Indians. (N) Saturday Morning News (N) Å Fish’n Fishing Boat TV Driving News PGA Golf Ella the Jelly Upside PAW Magic Maya Wild Martha Re Finding Animals Animals Animal Super Artzooka Cross Absolutely Doc Zone Å the fifth estate ’ NHL Hockey Adven. DFlyTV Biz Kid$ On Spot Coolest Eco Co. Paid Paid Paid Meals! Paid Hip Hop CNN Newsroom (N) Money Newsr’m CNN Newsroom Repo Repo Repo Repo Deadliest Warrior Deadliest Warrior Deadliest Warrior ›› “Rambo” ’ Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan Criminal Minds ’ Flipping Boston ’ Flipping Boston (N) ››› “Bad Boys” (’95) Martin Lawrence. ’ Donnie Love It Will Will Will Will ››› “Dirty Dancing” (’87) Jennifer Grey. Candice Alien Nerds Chucks Rabbids Sponge. Monsters Sanjay Bread Turtles BeyWar. Pokémon Power CBC News Now With Nancy Wilson From Toronto. (N) Å CBC News Now With Christine Birak (N) Å Continuum Å ››› “Thor” (’11, Action) Chris Hemsworth. ’ ›››› “The Dark Knight” (’08) Christian Bale. Dude--Screwed Mayday Å Bering Sea Gold Mayday Å Mayday Å Yukon Men Å Collec Collec Collec Collec Thicke Thicke Matchmaker Matchmaker Matchmaker Four Houses ’ Four Houses ’ 1st 1st Hoard-Buried Hoard-Buried Hoard-Buried Perception Å Perception Å Perception Å Perception Å Perception Å Perception Å Johnny T Looney Tom/ Adven NinjaGo Dragons ›› “Scooby-Doo! Pirates Ahoy!” Johnny T Rocket Gravity Wizards ANT Shake It Good Austin Dog Jessie Liv-Mad. I Didn’t “Garfield: Tail” Browns Atl. Eats Office Paid ›› “The Proposal” (’09) ››› “A.I.: Artificial Intelligence” Cash Cash Match Match Seinfeld Seinfeld Just for Laughs Just for Laughs Match Match Diners, Drive Diners, Drive Chopped Canada Guy’s Games Guy’s Games Guy’s Games Paid Paid Paid Paid Whisker Whisker Whisker Whisker Whisker Whisker Whisker Whisker Swamp People ’ Swamp People ’ Swamp People ’ Swamp People ’ Swamp People ’ Swamp People ’ “Harry Potter” Orphan Black ’ Orphan Black ’ Orphan Black ’ Orphan Black ’ Orphan Black ’ (6:00) “The War Wagon” ›› “Memphis Belle” (’90) Matthew Modine. ›››› “Forrest Gump” (’94) Å ››› “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” (’69) ’ Å ››› “Diamonds Are Forever” (’71, Action) ’ Live&Let (3:00) CTV News Weekend ’ Å CTV News Weekend ’ Å Little Mike Zack Octo Max, Rby Big Caillou Cat in Babar Mike Thomas This Is (6:00) Weekend Morning News (N) Fish’n Fishing Boat TV Driving House ’ Å PGA Tour Golf Wood Michigan Out Mag. Geta Woods. Rough Antiques Cooking Martha Cook’s Kitchen Lidia Aaj Kal Gurbani Watno Dur ’ Punjabi Punjab Gaunda Lamia Virasat Quran Peace Words Mike Annie Spirou Doigts Gawayn Erky Magi Mission Oniva Épicerie TJ La fac (6:00) Saturday Morning News (N) Fish’n Fishing Boat TV Driving House ’ Å PGA Tour Golf Prince Prince MuchCountdown ’ Å Oh Sit! ’ Å Exit Å Total Total (:05) ››› “WarGames” (’83) Å ›››› “Blade Runner” (’82) Å “Creature-Black” (:15) “Godzilla” (5:56) Rugby (N) Cobayes Reflets Sud Secrets d’histoire Journal Ports Dangerous Drives Stunt Stunt Motorcycle Racing Monster Energy Supercross - St. Louis. Pinks - All Out

7 PM

SYMBOLS:

SATURDAY MORNING / APRIL 19

7:30

Transform Your Life. Be Your Potential!

PG-13 = Parental guidance strongly suggested for children under age 13 R = Restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying adult or supervision.

(TV-Y) = appropriate for all children (TV-Y7) = appropriate for all children ages 7 and up (TV-14) = May be unsuitable for all children under 14 years of age (TV-MA) = Mature audiences only (D) = May contain suggestive language (L) = Course Language (FV) = Fantasy Violence (S) = Sexual Situations (V) = May contain violence

Anita Horton, Sales Coordinator 250-428-2266 sales@crestonvalleyadvance.ca

7 AM

www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca 11

Jasmine Lothien

Professional Counsellor D.V.A.T.I., B.C.A.T.R.

250-402-3262

Free Meditation Workshops

SATURDAY AFTERNOON / APRIL 19

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 48 49 50

1 PM

11 9 13 10 19 12 22 3 8 6 23 14

15 18

2 54 64 81 224