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[] | 2016-08-26T12:59:31 | null | 2016-03-10T01:26:46 | THE CITIZEN-STANDARD 104 W. Main St., Valley View, PA 17983 Online at: www.citizenstandard.com Phone: 570.682.9081 • Fax: 570.682.8734 | https%3A%2F%2Fcitizenstandard.com%2Fabout%2Fcomment-page-1%2F.json | en | null | About | null | null | citizenstandard.com | null | https://citizenstandard.com/about/comment-page-1/ | en | 2016-03-10T00:00:00 | citizenstandard.com/31c616bc8a2c8b21f964c4d43bea03df64d0b1d7bade52e3191e00930d597172.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:54:07 | null | 2016-08-25T14:10:37 | Carrie Irene Kauffman Bensinger Schovel, a resident at the Polk Personal Care Center, Millersburg and formerly of Hegins, the Pocono region and Greenwich, Conn., passed away Sunday, August 14, 2016 at the age of 96 at the Polk Personal Care Center. To read the full obituary, purchase a copy of The Citizen-Standard at your local… | https%3A%2F%2Fcitizenstandard.com%2F2016%2F08%2F25%2Fcarrie-i-schovel%2F.json | en | null | Carrie I. Schovel | null | null | citizenstandard.com | Carrie Irene Kauffman Bensinger Schovel, a resident at the Polk Personal Care Center, Millersburg and formerly of Hegins, the Pocono region and Greenwich, Conn., passed away Sunday, August 14, 2016 at the age of 96 at the Polk Personal Care Center.
To read the full obituary, purchase a copy of The Citizen-Standard at your local newsstand or call 570-682-9081 to subscribe today. | https://citizenstandard.com/2016/08/25/carrie-i-schovel/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | citizenstandard.com/3a04d23826e2e0fc534c01f111a2c9c4721c30435891d5adee93377bb70de10c.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:56:02 | null | 2016-08-25T14:13:04 | By Rob Wheary, Staff Writer • csrobwheary@gmail.com MILLERSBURG – When the Millersburg Area School Board worked on their 2016-2017 budget, they tried to be fiscally responsible with their funds and stay within budget, cutting costs and furloughing teachers. After learning of two different bills that will increase costs for the district, one that will see the district… | https%3A%2F%2Fcitizenstandard.com%2F2016%2F08%2F25%2Fmillersburg-school-board-questions-63k-tuition-bill%2F.json | en | null | Millersburg School Board questions $63K tuition bill | null | null | citizenstandard.com | By Rob Wheary, Staff Writer • csrobwheary@gmail.com
MILLERSBURG – When the Millersburg Area School Board worked on their 2016-2017 budget, they tried to be fiscally responsible with their funds and stay within budget, cutting costs and furloughing teachers.
After learning of two different bills that will increase costs for the district, one that will see the district pay a $13,000 increase in a tuition, some board members expressed their displeasure about the state and federal government guidelines.
One item on the agenda at their Aug. 22 meeting was a new tuition agreement for a Millersburg Area School District student to receive special education services at the New Story school. After the budget was passed, district officials received notification that their tuition would increase from $280 to $350 a day. With a 180-day school year, Millersburg’s bill would be $63,000, an increase over the $50,400 the district paid last year.
In comparison, the new figure would provide the education of four or five children in regular classes.
Business Manager Cathy Artz said the student is listed as needing a high level of assistance for learning, and per state and federal guidelines to provide a free and appropriate education to all students, Millersburg has no choice in the matter.
Board member Donald Harris was the most vocal on the matter, asking if any kind of inquiry on the matter was done.
“Have we ever contacted anyone at the state level to make a complaint about us as a school having to do this?” Harris asked superintendent Thomas Haupt.
“As a school, no,” Haupt said. “Special education is a topic of conversation that comes up in superintendents’ meetings all the time.”
While respecting the fact that the decision has to be done for the education of the student, Harris hopes that some other organizations would take up the fight as well.
“I would also like to see this school board make some kind of dedicated response to the superintendents’ organization, and the Pennsylvania School Board Association, to complain about this. This is ridiculous.”
Following the discussion, the board voted 6-0 to approve the tuition agreement, with members Mark Rothermel, Scott Roadcap, Brett White, and Margaret Lebo, Harris and Ryan Novinger voting yes. Harris and Novinger in making their vote, said: “Reluctantly, yes.” Board Members Bruce Kance, Morgan Wagner and J. Bruce Walter were absent.
Along the same lines, school officials were informed over the summer the Geisinger Clinic would be increasing the cost of routine drug testing from $35 to $79.25 per test. Business manager Cathy Artz said the district would keep the same amount of money it’s budgeted for testing, and adapt their schedule. The service is used for random drug testing for students.
The motion for the laboratory services agreement was approved on a 6-0 vote.
Other motions approved at the meeting included:
— The board voted on a resolution to levy interim real estate taxes on 17 properties, five in Millersburg borough and 12 in Upper Paxton Township, based on increases in their assessed value resulting in new construction. The measure would raise $5,200 this year, and when at their full value of taxes next year, $15,000.
— Transportation contracts were approved for the coming school year, with transportation being provided by the David Schlegel Transportation Company. Costs for transportation are as follows: regular transportation consortium and for students of the Northern Dauphin Christian School, $1,401.46 per day not to exceed 181 days; vo-tech students to the Dauphin County Technical School, at a cost of $95.32 per day; Amish school transportation at a cost of $199.15 per day and a special van run at a cost of $25.50 per day.
— Three change orders for the district’s building project were approved totaling close to $3,000 were approved. Craig Zimmerman, building project manager, said that workers will be cleaning up the school this coming week to have it ready for the first day of school on Aug. 29.
— The 2016-2017 ambulance services agreement with the Millersburg Area Ambulance Association was approved, for a fee of $1,000.
— Resignations were approved for Karen Watts as a part-time learning support aide at Lenkerville Elementary School, Paul Everett as school security officer, Dr. David Ellis as district physician and Bethany Dearborn as a long-term substitute.
— Hired at Monday’s meeting were Christina Lahr, of Herndon, as a K-3 learning support teachers at Lenkerville Elementary School, Brandi Riland, of Millersburg as a day-to-day substitute for third-grade teacher Noelle Conrad, and Crystal Romberger, of Millersburg, as a part-time kindergarten aide at Lenkerville Elementary School. The board also approved two reassignments, several supplemental contracts, the academic support tutors, leave requests, school security personnel, and the list of substitutes.
— The list of bus drivers and bus stops and van routes for the 2016-2017 school year was approved.
— When approving the school handbooks, Donald Harris hoped that in the future, the board will get a chance to see the books for more than four days before coming to the meeting to approved them, not going only by the recommendation of the administration and solicitor.
— Several district policies were approved at the meeting, including policies for working periods for non-instructional employees, child abuse, public participation in board meetings, conflicts of interest and a policy to keep and administer doses of naloxone in the district. Naloxone is a new drug designed to reverse the overdose caused by an opioid drug, and the district will be provided the drug in both intranasal and auto-injector doses. | https://citizenstandard.com/2016/08/25/millersburg-school-board-questions-63k-tuition-bill/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | citizenstandard.com/3c7146ae861a0293b3e1e76d440cdb210f7fb28f17fe1f1bfd7c77ae564eabbf.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:53:39 | null | 2016-08-25T14:16:13 | Fire tax ballot question main topic discussed By Rob Wheary, Staff Writer • csrobwheary@gmail.com TOWER CITY – Close to 50 residents met with line officers of the Tower City Fire Company to clear the air about a ballot question for a proposed fire tax to be added to residents’ property taxes. What came out of that was… | https%3A%2F%2Fcitizenstandard.com%2F2016%2F08%2F25%2Ftower-city-fire-dept-meets-with-residents%2F.json | en | null | Tower City Fire Dept. meets with residents | null | null | citizenstandard.com | Fire tax ballot question main topic discussed
By Rob Wheary, Staff Writer • csrobwheary@gmail.com
TOWER CITY – Close to 50 residents met with line officers of the Tower City Fire Company to clear the air about a ballot question for a proposed fire tax to be added to residents’ property taxes.
What came out of that was a two-hour discussion on Aug. 15 between the firefighters and the public, giving residents insight about how the fire department is operating now and the future of the department.
Much of the talking on behalf of the company was done by line officer Marcus Riddell, who also serves on Tower City’s borough council, fire company president Ross Baker, and fire chief Mike Keiter. When Riddell joined the fire company, he asked about how much support the borough gives to its only fire company.
“The fire company gets $18,000 a year from the borough,” Riddell told the audience. “With that money, we have to pay or workmen’s compensation insurance and our liability insurance. That leaves the company with about $3,647 left over for any other bills.”
Baker told the residents that the fire company is keeping themselves solvent, thanks to fundraisers, but if one thing goes wrong, it will be a big expense.
“Our trucks are 25 to 30 years old,” Baker said. “The pumper we use is 30 years old. If we would crack a pump on that, it is a fix that would cost us $8,000-$15,000. We are looking to replace 15 air tanks that are ready to expire, and that will not be a cheap fix.
Because it was such a big expense, the department is looking to downsize, having only 10 apparatus available.
“To upgrade to new equipment, the apparatus cost $6,500 each. So for 10 new tanks and gear, it will be a $65,000 price tags,” Baker said.
After hearing about the plight of his brother firefighters, Riddell went to borough council, asking for what they can do for them. The suggestion was made about a 1/2 mill tax increase to help out but according to Riddell, another council member sabotaged his efforts.
“The board member, Paul Ruth, immediately put a motion on the floor for a four-mill tax increase to be put on the ballot for consideration and Robert Shuey seconded the motion, which passed,” Liddell said. “They knew there was now way the public would pass the vote, so it was dead in the water.”
Besides Liddell, the only other person representing borough officials in attendance was mayor Daniel Daub. Daub told the public that the matter may not even come up for a vote this year.
“I just think it is too late in the game to get it on the ballot for this November,” Daub said. “I keep asking the borough’s solicitor and keep being told it’s in the works.”
Other than the borough money, the firefighters raise funds through their donation letters and fundraising, which they said both ways have dropped off recently.
“If we knew that there were fundraisers going on, we would not only support you but help you in some way, shape or form,” one resident said.
There have been talks going around about merging fire companies, but the Tower City Fire Department dropped out of those talks when certain questions weren’t answered.
The comments from the public ranged from criticism of borough council for not offering enough support to the firefighters to questions about why their tax dollars would finance their to the Tower City Fire Company while a majority of the calls they respond to our mutual aid calls in other townships.
“Why should our money go to pay for Porter Township and other places to have fire protection?” one person asked.
Others feel that is unfair that property owners get hit with the taxes when a good number of the people living in Tower City are in rental properties, and don’t pay property taxes.
“The younger people are not involved with helping,” Baker said. “Many of the donations we get are from senior citizens, those on the fixed incomes.”
Following the meeting, Liddell hoped that many misconceptions about the fire company and its operation and the tax were cleared up.
“When the public first got wind of this through the social media, it just blew up and all kinds of rumors started flying around,” Liddell said. “We hope that after hearing our side, regardless of how the vote turns out in November, we can become reenergized and get the people behind our efforts and step up to make this community a whole lot better.” | https://citizenstandard.com/2016/08/25/tower-city-fire-dept-meets-with-residents/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | citizenstandard.com/fdbe4b5b0f314d1a2a1c3cae82c4ed4f0b456733581e99b20907e0959e3b3e13.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:59:08 | null | 2016-08-25T14:03:51 | Arlene E. Sitlinger, 90, of Lykens Twp, passed away Wednesday. Aug. 17, 2016, at the Manor at Susquehanna Village, Millersburg. To read the full obituary, purchase a copy of The Citizen-Standard at your local newsstand or call 570-682-9081 to subscribe today. | https%3A%2F%2Fcitizenstandard.com%2F2016%2F08%2F25%2Farlene-e-sitlinger%2F.json | en | null | Arlene E. Sitlinger | null | null | citizenstandard.com | Arlene E. Sitlinger, 90, of Lykens Twp, passed away Wednesday. Aug. 17, 2016, at the Manor at Susquehanna Village, Millersburg.
To read the full obituary, purchase a copy of The Citizen-Standard at your local newsstand or call 570-682-9081 to subscribe today. | https://citizenstandard.com/2016/08/25/arlene-e-sitlinger/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | citizenstandard.com/b8209f0aa80ad8c23a77ff958f5a65183a2b7dafc7d979e2da1770c81836080f.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:48:56 | null | 2016-08-25T14:06:35 | Harold I. “Spike” Jones, 87, of Hegins, passed away Saturday, August 20, 2016 at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville. To read the full obituary, purchase a copy of The Citizen-Standard at your local newsstand or call 570-682-9081 to subscribe today. | https%3A%2F%2Fcitizenstandard.com%2F2016%2F08%2F25%2Fharold-i-jones%2F.json | en | null | Harold I. Jones | null | null | citizenstandard.com | Harold I. “Spike” Jones, 87, of Hegins, passed away Saturday, August 20, 2016 at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville.
To read the full obituary, purchase a copy of The Citizen-Standard at your local newsstand or call 570-682-9081 to subscribe today. | https://citizenstandard.com/2016/08/25/harold-i-jones/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | citizenstandard.com/6472d077015ec2153389bd4ddb779517fa2afc94d1927648b500caf7df1c919c.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:56:57 | null | 2016-08-25T14:04:39 | Gertrude (Schwartz) Harrison, 97, of Tower City, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, Aug. 20, 2016 after a long and fulfilling life. To read the full obituary, purchase a copy of The Citizen-Standard at your local newsstand or call 570-682-9081 to subscribe today. | https%3A%2F%2Fcitizenstandard.com%2F2016%2F08%2F25%2Fgertrude-harrison%2F.json | en | null | Gertrude Harrison | null | null | citizenstandard.com | Gertrude (Schwartz) Harrison, 97, of Tower City, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, Aug. 20, 2016 after a long and fulfilling life.
To read the full obituary, purchase a copy of The Citizen-Standard at your local newsstand or call 570-682-9081 to subscribe today. | https://citizenstandard.com/2016/08/25/gertrude-harrison/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | citizenstandard.com/a7c65ba82b476c967d4c0add9a9a2ed3fcfacbf26135276ce92fcc13bbccc027.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:58:44 | null | 2016-08-25T14:14:31 | By Rebecca Zemencik, Managing Editor • rebecca-z@citizenstandard.com HEGINS – Tri-Valley School Board Directors gathered for a committee of the whole meeting prior to the regular board meeting last Wednesday evening. During the committee meeting, Superintendent Dr. Mark Snyder said the district will be sharing a social worker with Schuylkill Haven this year. He said in the… | https%3A%2F%2Fcitizenstandard.com%2F2016%2F08%2F25%2Fnumber-of-students-in-classroom-raises-concern-for-hegins-hubley-parent%2F.json | en | null | Number of students in classroom raises concern for Hegins-Hubley parent | null | null | citizenstandard.com | By Rebecca Zemencik, Managing Editor • rebecca-z@citizenstandard.com
HEGINS – Tri-Valley School Board Directors gathered for a committee of the whole meeting prior to the regular board meeting last Wednesday evening.
During the committee meeting, Superintendent Dr. Mark Snyder said the district will be sharing a social worker with Schuylkill Haven this year. He said in the past the district shared the spot with North Schuylkill, however they weren’t interested this year.
Tri-Valley will pay .7% of the salary while Schuylkill Haven will pay .3%.
Director Diane Dietrich questioned the percentage. She was under the impression that Tri-Valley paid .6% in the past and that was the figure agreed upon in the budget.
Snyder said the position is a full-time position in the district and .7% is what was budgeted for Tri-Valley this year.
“I was just concerned that this would be additional cost to the district since we were concerned about extra curricular positions such as with the elementary band position,” said Dietrich.
Currently there are two openings for extra curricular positions which include high school newspaper advisor and drama club advisor.
Dr. Snyder said it’s not mandatory that the positions be filled by faculty he said they can be people from the public. He said the drama club advisor position has been advertised.
Also during the committee meeting, Director Carl D. Shankweiler said he was approached by a constituent why the winners of the DK Schwartz award, which is one male and one female scholar athlete per year, aren’t given a lifetime pass to Tri-Valley sporting events.
DK Schwartz was the superintendent of the district in the 1950’s. Each year two students are recognized and an awarded given in May.
The board plans to discuss it at next month’s meeting and put it on the agenda for a vote to award the lifetime passes.
During the regular meeting of the board, Mandi Lucht, a district employee, addressed the board of directors as a parent.
“My concern is the number of students being put into a single classroom at Hegins-Hubley. Currently in third grade at Mahantongo there are 13 students, while Hegins-Hubley has 51 (25 and 26 per class); fourth grade, Mahantongo, 19 students and 59 at Hegins-Hubley (29 and 30) and sixth grade has 16 at Mahantongo and 46 at Hegins-Hubley (23 in each),” said Lucht.
“There are still two and a half weeks before school begins so the possibility of other students moving in yet is very high,” continued Lucht, as she read from a prepared statement. “This problem is not going away either. Two weeks ago I was told there are 65 first graders at Hegins-Hubley so when that first grade class gets to third grade there will be more than 30 kids per class.
The classes are heterogeneously mixed. You have your advanced/higher level kids, you have your on level/proficient (average) kids and you have kids below grade level and some with individual education programs (IEP’s) which require much attention in the learning process. Your average per classroom in upper grades with IEP’s alone is about six students. The students in your average range will not get the attention needed by a student teacher ratio of 30:1. Packing this many students into a single classroom is not educationally equal. I know our teachers do the very best they can to make sure each child in their classroom gets what they need. But more and more continue to be added with no help for these kids.
Two years ago many people expressed their concerns and emotions to keep Mahantongo open. They called board members and came to meetings. Those board members listened to their constituents and Mahantongo was fought to stay open. Now we are in a huge predicament at Hegins-Hubley shoving 28, 29, and 30 kids into a room, so I ask who is sticking up for them?
I have nieces in Mahantongo, I have close friends who have children in that building and I have great colleagues that teach in that building and I am glad for them all to be able to continue their education and teaching careers there. There is a lot of tradition and emotion in that building and I certainly get that, however the problem of putting 28, 29, and 30 kids into a classroom at Hegins-Hubley is not right. It’s just not right.
Please I ask that you take a close look at this problem. Thank you for your time.”
Also addressing the board was Micah Ulicny, a junior at Tri-Valley High School. Ulicny was seeking the boards approval for his plan to construct an inclusive playground and sensory garden for the special education department in the courtyard of the Hegins-Hubley Elementary School.
Ulicny is working on the project as his Boy Scouts of America Eagle Project. He presented a slide show depicting his plans, the equipment needed, and cost. He has a list of playground equipment that he would like to purchase for the project along with the costs. He told the board he is planning on writing many grant applications and is hoping to fund the project through various grants which he listed in his presentation.
He is estimating the cost of the project to be at least $10,000. If the grants are awarded, he would like to begin work at the site by next spring.
The board approved his preliminary plans and wished him well on the project.
Mrs. Gretchen Dingman, high school agriculture teacher, also addressed the board. Tri-Valley’s Agricultural Science program was named as the outstanding secondary agriculture education program (for the entire state) by the Pennsylvania Association of Agricultural Education.
Dingman also notified the board that Tri-Valley has been awarded a $10,000 grant from Monsanto’s “America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education” program. The funds will be used to purchase an aquaponics system and associated training and curriculum.
“We are hoping to grow some hydroponic vegetables that can be used in the cafeteria or the community,” said Dingman.
Dingman also highlighted some of Tri-Valley FFA members accomplishments at the Schuylkill County Fair held earlier this month.
The following action was approved by the board:
• Increase the daily substitute rate to $90 per day beginning in the 2016-17 school year. This enables the district to be competitive with surrounding districts.
• The following were appointed as susbtitute aides at a rate of $9 per hour, effective the start of the 2016-17 school year: Beth Bowman and Michele Cupsta.
• Matthew Wetzel was appointed as substitute custodian at a rate of $9 per hour, pending receipt of clearances.
• Accept the resignation of Dr. Naomi Scearce as school physician for the 2016-17 school year. | https://citizenstandard.com/2016/08/25/number-of-students-in-classroom-raises-concern-for-hegins-hubley-parent/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | citizenstandard.com/168f5ac8e70549b86dc940c123ad12b6d92e1678cd7324b075529efbe33ed566.json | |
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[] | 2016-08-26T13:09:29 | null | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | New uniforms will brighten the halls at Lakeside Academy this school year. Photo Courtesy/Jennifer Park
Previous photo
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When Lakeside Academy opens its door for the 2016-17 school year on Aug. | http%3A%2F%2Fjournalmetro.com%2Flocal%2Flachine-dorval%2Factualites%2F1013597%2Flakeside-back-in-full-force-this-fall%2F.json | fr | null | Lakeside back in full force this fall | null | null | journalmetro.com | New uniforms will brighten the halls at Lakeside Academy this school year. Photo Courtesy/Jennifer Park Previous photo Next photo
When Lakeside Academy opens its door for the 2016-17 school year on Aug. 31, students can expect more new programs than ever.
Staff are looking at the Lachine high school’s success plan for the new year.
“We’re so excited that we don’t have to think about closure,” said principal Kathleen O’Reilly. “We want to start small and do things right.”
The community rallied to save the only English high school in the territory and the Lester B. Pearson School Board voted to keep the school open indefinitely in July.
The 450 students at the International Baccalaureate (IB) school also have a new uniform choice: either a royal blue or white polo.
Enrollment is on target, with 90 new students entering the school and 80 graduating. The 2015-16 school year had 93 new students, a dramatic difference from 2014-15 that had 67 new registrations.
“I think people really respect that they want a high school in Lachine,” said O’Reilly of the increase.
Robots
The robotics program, that started in 2014, will be expanding. This year will see a junior and senior team, where grade 7 students can take robotics as a course and grade 9 students will have it as an extracurricular option.
LA Tech competes against other schools in an annual FIRST Robotics Competition.
“By having the juniors on board, our team will get stronger because they have a base by the time they get to ninth grade,” said O’Reilly.
Mohawk studies
A new Mohawk Culture course will be embedded into the curriculum for all grade levels, an homage to their long tie to the Mohawk community.
“A lot of Mohawk families have sent their children here,” said O’Reilly. There is also an annual student led Mohawk assembly at the school.
Shooting hoops
A new basketball concentration already has 22 students registered. Two days a week students can hone their basketball skills while learning about nutrition and the psychology of the sport.
Crossing borders
In March Lakeside became a Community Learning Centre (CLC) school, a facility that build partnerships within the community.
As part of this initiative, representatives from Lakeside will visit an inner city school in the Bronx as a way to explore new learning and success strategies.
By the 2017-16 school year students from Thewphaingarm School in Thailand will be able to learn at Lakeside through parallel IB units. About 150 Thai students should be able to participate over the course of the five-year project.
The Lakeside Academy open house will take place Oct. 5, 5050 Rue Sherbrooke, Lachine. | http://journalmetro.com/local/lachine-dorval/actualites/1013597/lakeside-back-in-full-force-this-fall/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | journalmetro.com/eb9336e6d5bba2b49845fc63a208830979e0f43e82461efddf0200071ab81c46.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:15:47 | null | 2016-08-20T00:00:00 | Vanier College graduate Dorothy Yeats was on the attack when she lost the bronze medal 2-1 to Sweden in the 69 kg women’s freestyle wrestling Wednesday in Rio. “I feel tired but satisfied,” Yeats told Les Nouvelles Saint-Laurent. | http%3A%2F%2Fjournalmetro.com%2Flocal%2Fsaint-laurent%2Factualites%2F1011077%2Fvanier-grad-puts-up-a-fight-in-olympic-finals%2F.json | fr | null | Vanier grad puts up a fight in Olympic finals | null | null | journalmetro.com | Vanier College graduate Dorothy Yeats was on the attack when she lost the bronze medal 2-1 to Sweden in the 69 kg women’s freestyle wrestling Wednesday in Rio.
“I feel tired but satisfied,” Yeats told Les Nouvelles Saint-Laurent. “I would have loved to leave here with a medal, especially since I was so close, but I gave everything I had and so, I can’t be too upset.”
This was the first Olympic games for the 23-year-old wrestler from Montreal West, and the third for her opponent, 29-year-old Jenny Fransson. The pair had never faced off before.
The first point was given to Fransson after a 30-second activity period for Yeats, where she failed to score on her opponent. The second point to Sweden was awarded when Yeats’ foot moved out of bounds. Yeats scored her point toward the latter part of the match in a quick grapple.
In the last minute, Yeats still had a chance to win and picked up her attack vigorously before the buzzer rang and Fransson was named the bronze medal winner.
Yeats lost to gold medal winner Sara Dosho of Japan in the quarter finals but had the chance to compete for bronze after Dosho moved to the finals.
Yeats has several international wins to her name, including gold at the Pan American Games (2015) and Youth Olympic Games (2014). | http://journalmetro.com/local/saint-laurent/actualites/1011077/vanier-grad-puts-up-a-fight-in-olympic-finals/ | en | 2016-08-20T00:00:00 | journalmetro.com/8138b784c17fd3c7256d9b6771e13899266f83c1d57cc111c7b1170ae95695fd.json | |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:09:19 | null | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | Friendships and independence blossom at AVATIL, a Lachine organisation that helps people with mild intellectual disabilities. TC Media/Sara King-Abadi
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A Lachine organisation celebrated 50 years helping people with mild intellectual disabilities live independently, and the AVATIL summer variety show Tuesday proved the clients also have a sense of humour. | http%3A%2F%2Fjournalmetro.com%2Flocal%2Flachine-dorval%2Factualites%2F1013577%2F50-years-of-independence%2F.json | fr | null | 50 years of independence | null | null | journalmetro.com | Friendships and independence blossom at AVATIL, a Lachine organisation that helps people with mild intellectual disabilities. TC Media/Sara King-Abadi Previous photo Next photo
A Lachine organisation celebrated 50 years helping people with mild intellectual disabilities live independently, and the AVATIL summer variety show Tuesday proved the clients also have a sense of humour.
“What’s a pretzel’s favourite dance move,” Margot asked the audience. “The twist,” she revealed to the laughing crowd.
Margot first became an AVATIL client in 1979. She lives alone and can partially thank the organisation for that independence.
“They taught me how to budget and keep dentist and doctor’s appointments,” said the retiree from the print shop in John Abbott College in 2008.
She lives in the same building as her boyfriend of 25 years, James, who she met at the organisation.
The AVATIL house on 40th Ave. and Victoria St. acts as a transition home for four or five residents at a time, for two-to-three years, where administration and counselling is provided.
Residents pay a modest rent and they cook, clean and grocery shop together. At the same time, they learn skills like budgeting, key to living on your own. The programs also fight social isolation.
“[The clients] need people they feel comfortable with and have the same needs and interests,” said Carita Dubuc, past-president of the board of directors.
The organisation runs two other temporary homes, one in Lachine and the other in N.D.G.
Family affair
Hannah Lusthaus—an AVATIL client for over 20 years— had two siblings move out of her family when she told her parents that she was next.
“She wanted to be more independent,” said her mother, Evie Lusthaus.
At age 39, Hannah lives in an apartment with a roommate she met while at the transition program.
The network of 200 clients are able to return to AVATIL for counselling and help if needed. A vacant “respite” room at the transition home can house a client temporarily.
“It helped her because it gives her support when she has difficulty, but also a community of friends,” Evie added.
The smiles, couples and friendships on display at the variety show alone prove the AVATIL is succeeding in fighting isolation and building a community. | http://journalmetro.com/local/lachine-dorval/actualites/1013577/50-years-of-independence/ | en | 2016-08-25T00:00:00 | journalmetro.com/f8b1391c55442250922ef81c2149f758cac1a7959d47a15b71223e666e91df06.json | |
[] | 2016-08-30T18:51:39 | null | null | Concert-goer blown away by bands live performance at two shows in Penticton. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391771951.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Pure talent in Penticton | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | On B.C. Day we were listening to bands play at Gyro Park following a humorous street vendor act. The music that I felt was the best was the J.S. Garcia Band with mother and daughter singing their hearts out.
At 15 years old, Sophia Mae sang with such control and rhythm, complete with trills and runs of an accomplished performer. Her mother, Jennifer Boal sang in a rock-and-roll style that made you want to dance, stomp your feet and chant along with her. Sophia Mae sang in a style that relaxed you and made you feel happy or sad as the song dictated. I believe they composed some of their own music and their band complimented their singing well.
On Aug. 3 at the Penticton Peach Festival we saw Sophia Mae again singing a couple of songs (she was the winner of a contest). In her short brown dress and sunglasses, a photographer took a picture of her after behind the stage. It was such a pleasure to hear her sing.
Thank-you Sophia Mae for the CD you gave me when I spoke to you after your first performance.
Julia Trefry
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391771951.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/f303ac4cdc5e84e206be5ef92209ca3199914510ada27129163eeca30cf1dc30.json |
[
"Emanuel Sequeira"
] | 2016-08-26T16:52:19 | null | null | Twenty-seven pro's in the Long Course distance of Challenge Penticton should create for entertaining battles Sunday | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391343151.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/68644pentictonCP-Davide-Giardini.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Challenge Penticton announcer anticipates good battles in Long Course race | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | DAVIDE GIARDINI of Boulder, Col., is among the pro’s in the men’s field that Challenge Penticton announcer Steve King feels will be a contender on Sunday in the Long Course distance.
There will be battles.
Challenge Penticton’s Long Distance course of a 3.8-kilometre swim, 120-km bike and 30-km run will feature 27 pro athletes fighting for the $30,000 worth of prize money on Sunday, as well as qualifying positions for the International Triathlon Union World Championship in 2017 in Penticton. Penticton is one of 11 series races this year offering qualifying spots according to the Triathlon Canada website.
Among the big names competing are Penticton’s Jeff Symonds and Jen Annett, along with Jordan Bryden, Kamloops’ Nathan Champness, Davide Giardini, Bryan Rhodes, Jenny Fletcher, Elizabeth Lyles, Mackenzie Madison and Karen Thibodeau.
“I’m very pleased to see some of the big names that we have,” said voice of Challenge Penticton Steve King. “I’m saddened to see that we still only have seven females. That’s a shame in a sense that they are battling for some big money there as well. Given the numbers in the women’s division, we do have a battle on our hands. It’s good that there is not an obvious person who is a runaway winner. We’ve got some very talented athletes. I look forward to that.”
King said Lyles, who won Ironman Brazil, will be one to watch after she set a record in eight hours, 54 minutes, 10 seconds. At Calgary 70.3, Lyles came fourth. King said Lyles is in great form, as is Fletcher, who competed in Challenge Roth and finished in 9:36:01 placing 12th.
When asked who he thought might win on the women’s side, King said Annett is in really good form and knows the course.
“She’s become such a power house on the bike, that a lot comes down to mechanical issues,” he said.
On the men’s side, King spoke highly of Symonds saying he’s in great shape. King talked about how Symonds lost ground on the bike in Calgary, but made up for it on the run to finish eighth. Bryden, from Calgary, finished Challenge Roth in 8:28:38, which was a personal best for him and good for 12th. He was the top Canadian at that event. Giardini, of Boulder, Col., finished third last year in the half distance of Challenge Penticton. King said he is one to watch for, especially in the swim.
Rhodes, a former Ironman Canada champ, is another King said spectators should watch. Competing in the masters division, Rhodes is someone who can be in contention and amongst the leaders in the swim. Also in the field is Drew Scott, who comes in with famous genes, as his father Dave is a former six-time Ironman World Champion.
As for the athletes approach to the race, King is curious what pace they will take since its an unusual distance. To King, that is a big issue.
“Do they go too hard too early or hold back just enough? Transitions are always going to be exciting. I think to see who tries to blast things away,” he said.
German Elmar Heger is competing in the distance for the first time and is looking forward to it.
“I think it brings the best from long distance and 70.3 together,” said Heger, 36. “Whenever I start personally hurting on an Ironman, I kind of start stopping at the ITU distance. I’m excited to run only 30-kilometre instead of 42. The last 10 are never fun any way.”
Heger likes his form, but said he wants to peak next month in time for the Oklahoma ITU Long Distance Triathlon World Championships as a member of the German team. Heger failed to make the team in 2007. It’s the first time for the 36-year-old to represent his country.
“I feel honoured to go. It’s a big deal for me,” said Heger, who has been living in Canada for five years and resides in Calgary with his girlfriend. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391343151.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/63c7c98cb51949dcbf1b942be645888c9385533d44faddd3c14658243f2bc77e.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-30T18:52:44 | null | null | Windy Lake and Little Windy Lake to be poisoned to remove unwanted non-native perch | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391765791.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/1705BCLN2007WindyLakemap.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Poison to be used in two B.C. lakes west of Kelowna after non-native fish species spotted | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | KAMLOOPS, B.C. – British Columbia's Fish and Wildlife Branch says all the fish in two lakes in the Upper Nicola watershed will have to be killed in order to get rid of an unwanted perch.
Biologist Steve Maricle says perch were spotted earlier this year in Windy Lake and Little Windy Lake, both about 50 kilometres northwest of West Kelowna.
Perch are not native to the lakes or the Nicola watershed and biologists say the rapidly breeding species competes for food with native fish and has the potential to wipe them out.
Maricle says barriers will be set up on waterways leading in and out of the lakes to contain the perch this year.
Rotenone, a poison lethal to fish but with limited effect on other animals such as frogs or waterfowl, will then be used to kill all fish in both lakes.
The lakes will be restocked once the perch have been removed, but Maricle says it will be next year at the earliest before any action is taken.
"It's just the logistics of all the permitting that's required to get the product, the rotenone, that we use to treat the lake. To get all the permitting in place to get (the rotenone) in, there's no way we could jump on it this year."
The Fish and Wildlife Branch believes visitors to Windy Lake and Little Windy Lake intentionally introduced the perch into the water. (CHNL)
The Canadian Press | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391765791.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/f4f8a432f97449ad12548fea3eb91855db1eac93d85ac5351a19f3ae43b0fdef.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:04:05 | null | null | Recreation Penticton’s Fall/Winter Recreation Guide is in Wednesday’s Penticton Western News. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F390359851.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/16098pentictonrecguidefront.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton fall/winter recreation lineup to keep you moving | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | The Fall/Winter Recreation Guide is available online or you can find it in the Wednesday, Aug. 17 issue of the Western News.
It’s nearly time to move from the lake to the pool, from beach time to court time and floating the channel to channeling your energy at yoga.
Recreation Penticton’s Fall/Winter Recreation Guide is in Wednesday’s Penticton Western News. More than ever, you’ll find a great mix of programs, events, articles and information to keep you active and sweating long after the warm weather departs.
“This year’s program has really responded to the active lifestyles of every age of our residents” said Lori Mullin, city recreation and culture manager. “We’re proud to offer programs that are affordable and really fit busy family lives. This includes options for childcare to enable parents to stay active and a system of great discounts through Active Advantage.”
The city is offering a variety of sport, fitness and recreation programs for children, youth and adults. Tots and tykes can enjoy the Baby Bug and Jr. Bug programs as they work their way toward becoming a student of the city’s early learning centre, Bugaboo University.
Children and youth can register for mountain biking, drawing, ballet, or babysitter training — just to name a few. Adults can enjoy badminton, volleyball, basketball or pickleball during drop in sports times in the gymnasium, or sign up for one of our many Zumba, yoga, cardio or strength fitness classes.
Those keen to get back into the pool will find a wide variety of aquatic fitness programs for all abilities along with swimming lessons for kids of all ages. If dropping in is more your thing, check out our fall/winter pool schedule and stop by for a few laps, a hot tub, or a cruise down the waterslide.
McLaren Arena will also be busy this fall and winter for those who want to skate or play hockey. The upcoming season offers lots of public skating opportunities and preschool and school age skating lessons. Register for lessons as soon as possible as they tend to fill up quickly and be sure to visit us on Sept. 28, Nov. 2 and Jan. 18 for a chance to skate with the Penticton Vees.
“We have awesome facilities here in Penticton and I think we’ve done a great job of creating programs that maximize the use of every space — there is truly something for everyone here,” said Mayor Andrew Jakubeit.
The recreation guide is available online now (penticton.ca/recguide) and in hard copy in this issue of the Penticton Western News. Register for programs by visiting 325 Power St. or calling 250-490-2426 or through the online registration system on the city website.
If interested in discounts on memberships and programs contact the community centre reception to learn how to get the Active Advantage. Childminding is available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and Monday to Thursday 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/community/390359851.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/d3a1093ab845193112d04c857a1c4d61d364a703e453ae10c44f87b1b8d2aaf0.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T18:51:49 | null | null | Taxpayer money shouldn't be spent at UBCM, instead Penticton should have a referendum. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391772701.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Spend UBCM money on a referendum | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | The Union of BC Municipalities 2016 conference is scheduled for Sept. 26 to 30 at the Victoria Conference Centre.
In addition to regularly scheduled meetings, delegates are also offered recreational opportunities like golfing packages, whale watching tours, bus trips to Butchart Gardens and steam spa treatments.
Which of the following would better serve the residents of Penticton; 1) spending taxpayer money on a referendum to settle the contentious privatization of Skaha Lake Park, or 2) spending taxpayer money for four days of meetings and recreation in Victoria?
A precedent was set two years ago when one of our councillors opted to stay home and save the city $4,200.
Mayor Jakubeit and council members should follow this example The $30,000 savings would pay for a referendum.
C. Otto Knaak
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391772701.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/a9c3b43895116adb6b478cd525f03010aa80469abbefd74a013ead4f8a723812.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:11:53 | null | null | Just as businesses need to put out the welcome mat, so do all members of the community. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2F391338251.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | EDITORIAL: Time for Penticton to bring out the welcoming mat | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | More than ever, Penticton needs to put out the welcome mat this week.
That’s not to say the city is ever less than welcoming, but this year’s Challenge Penticton race — or perhaps races would be better — have a significance that makes it important Penticton puts its best foot forward. This series of races, culminating in the long course triathlon on Sunday, are qualifiers for the International Triathlon Union World Championships that, incidentally, Penticton is hosting in 2017.
This is truly a chance for Penticton to shine, and that goes for more than just the volunteers helping make sure the races go smoothly. With all these athletes in town to compete in the duathlon, aquathlon, cross-tri and the big race on Sunday, this is one of those times Penticton needs to make the best impression possible.
Penticton has a long history of proving it can successfully host large-scale sports events, but with the eyes of the sporting world and more on us this year and next, we also need to show the world that Penticton is the place to be, and its worth spending more time here than just the few days related to your particular event.
What people see of us this week translates into credit when the city is bidding for other sporting events, like the 2018 Scotties. It also translates into more tourist visits and by extension, the possibility of more residents.
Just as businesses need to put out the welcome mat, so do all members of the community.
When you find yourself irritated by road closures, slow traffic and the other difficulties that go with hosting these big events, keep in mind that putting up with temporary frustration has long-range benefits for all the businesses and citizens of the community. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/391338251.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/b84b4ebee8b993f8281e6224f0e89baac5f299c4bc873e461850934f8d45a49a.json |
[
"Ken Tapping"
] | 2016-08-30T16:52:11 | null | null | Ken Tapping is an astronomer with the National Research Council's Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory, Penticton | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2F391183371.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | STARGAZING: How far is that star? | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | How far away is that star?
How did we determine that galaxy is a billion light years away? This process has taken us thousands of years and involves several different methods. However, they all depend upon one basic foundation — parallax.
If you close one eye while looking at a scene, then close that eye and open the other, you will notice that foreground objects move against the background of more distant objects. This phenomenon is called parallax, and is how our brains assess distance. In surveying, this process is called triangulation, where we observe distant objects from two ends of a carefully surveyed line. So the first step in measuring the Cosmos is to measure the Earth. That will give us our initial surveyed base from which we can push outwards.
The first accurate determination of the size of the Earth was made around 200 BCE by the Greek philosopher Eratosthenes. He noticed that on the summer solstice, the Sun shone straight down a well at Syene, now called Aswan, in Egypt, meaning the Sun passed overhead. In Alexandria, where he worked, he knew this was not the case. The Sun never got within a few degrees of the zenith. Greek scientists already believed the Earth was spherical, and this led to Eratosthenes proposing that the relationship between that angle of a few degrees and a circle would be the same as that between the distance between Syene and Alexandria and the circumference of the Earth. The angle was a 1/50 of a circle, so the distance between Alexandria and Syene was 1/50 of the circumference of the Earth. However, how far was Syene from Alexandria? Many accounts suggest he paced out the distance himself. However, since he was a senior philosopher, it is more likely he paid or cajoled someone else to do it, perhaps one of his students. He then calculated the circumference of the Earth, and got the right value.
Once we could establish the precise relative positions of two well-separated places on Earth, we could measure the distance and size of the Moon. At as close to the same time as possible, we observe at both locations the Moon's position against the distant background stars. From this we can estimate the Moonís parallax and determine its distance. Knowing how far away it is and measuring how big it looks in the sky, we can then find how big it is. This method also works for the Sun. However, beyond that it gets difficult. If space is filled with stars, some of them will be much nearer to us than others. However, measurements made from different places on Earth showed no stars having different positions against the other stars. The parallax was too small to measure, indicating the stars are very far away. However, it is possible to have a triangulation baseline bigger than the Earth. The Earth orbits the Sun at a measured distance of about 150 million kilometres, and takes a year to do so. If we take pictures of the sky six months apart, we are taking them from opposite ends of a 300 million kilometre baseline. It worked. Some stars showed small parallaxes. However, even those stars turned out to be enormously far away ñ so far that expressing those distances in kilometres was not really practical, the light year is a better unit (a light year is almost 10,000,000,000,000 km).
Thanks to improvements in our instruments, we have used parallax measurements to determine star distances out to about 1600 light years. However, the Universe extends way beyond that. We had to find other methods for measuring distance, but without parallax they could never have been developed. Moreover I think we would not have much trouble explaining them to Eratosthenes, or the unknown person who paced out the distance between Syene and Alexandria. Mars and Saturn lie low in the southwest after dark. Saturn is above Mars, fainter and to the right. The Moon will be New on Oct.1.
Ken Tapping is an astronomer with the National Research Council's Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory, Penticton. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/391183371.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/2ebe827c69f87ee44ccbd56b4bf317cfe3367dc94ccbeb7d918c9d7040be5ed7.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:10:36 | null | null | This council should not be allowed to destroy what it has taken many past councils over one hundred years to create, Skaha Park. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391339981.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Don’t destroy the park | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | This council should not be allowed to destroy what it has taken many past councils over one hundred years to create, Skaha Park.
Council, rescind the decision to lease Skaha Park for commercial development now. The park was not developed, at the expense of the taxpayers, over 100 years for the construction of commercial waterslides.
Jake Kimberley
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391339981.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/eb94c06dc9147161290b89110b53f429f36b5535e7c0b61c5635202b5a3742ce.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-27T18:52:00 | null | null | Along with tourists from all over the world and deer, bears are finding Penticton a congenial place to visit. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391498601.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/56794pentictonbear.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Bear spotted visiting downtown Penticton | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | This bear, spotted ambling near Burns Street and White Avenue in Penticton, is more likely interested in garbage cans than visiting the city's hot spots
Along with tourists from all over the world and deer, bears are finding Penticton a congenial place to visit.
This morning (Aug. 27), a bear was also spotted ambling around the Burns Street area, south of Wade Avenue and not far from the Penticton Creek corridor.
According to WildSafe B.C.'s Wildlife Alert Reporting Program, there were three bear sightings in the downtown Penticton area 11 days ago.
The B.C. Conservation Officer service could not be reached for a comment on these urban sightings. According to their website, conflict with wildlife that threatens public safety should be reported at 1-877-952-7277.
According to WildSafe B.C. black bears are the smallest of the three bears found in North America, and is driven by an insatiable appetite, mainly because of their need to put on about 30 per cent of their post-hibernation body weight to make it through the next winter's sleep.
To discourage bears from visiting, WildSafe recommends keeping your garbage in or secured until the day of collection. Garbage is the number one attractant cited in reports to the provincial hotline.
They also recommend managing backyard fruit trees, not letting windfalls accumulate and picking fruit as it ripens. Bears also see bird feeders as a nice source for a snack — A kilo of bird seed has approximately 8,000 calories and is a great reward for a hungry bear.
For more information on being bear aware, visit the wildlife safety page maintained by the Regional District Okanagan-Similkameen at rdos.bc.ca/departments/public-works/wildsafe-bc-bear-aware or WildSafe B.C. at wildsafebc.com. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391498601.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/c992aa40238a5a1871d3c221825a83acc6b2cf39dd0386590decef1105ed6f4c.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:07:44 | null | null | Meyer Family Vineyards is asking the public to nominate someone for their annual Tribute Series Chardonnay. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F388575701.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/53942pentictonMFV_Logo.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Meyer Family Vineyards looking for tribute nominations | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Meyer Family Vineyards is asking the public to nominate someone for their annual Tribute Series Chardonnay.
Each year, the Tribute Series Chardonnay is named after a western Canadian for an outstanding achievement in their field. Winery owners, Janice and Jak Meyer, donate $5,000 towards a not-for profit foundation, endowment, scholarship or charity of that person's choice as a way of encouraging or honouring the legacies of these Canadians.
For the 2014 Tribute Series, the Meyer’s honoured Jak’s mom and dad, Art and Viv Meyer. They donated a $5,000 bursary in their name to the Open Door Seniors Center in Calgary, an organization that the couple have tirelessly dedicated their time and energy to.
In the past the Meyer’s have recognized the following Canadians in previous vintages of our Tribute Series Chardonnay — 2013: Pat Quinn, 2012: Kelly Hrudey, 2011: Winnifred Mary Stewart, 2010 : Sonja Gaudet, 2009: Kenny McLean, 2008: Steve Yzerman, 2007: Bill Reid and in 2006: Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design
The 2015 vintage will be bottled this fall. Criteria to nominate someone includes having their permission, must be of legal drinking age in the province they reside in and be a western Canadian individual, not-for-profit foundation, organization or charity. A short summary of why the person is being nominated and an outline of their outstanding achievements or accomplishments to support the nomination.
A donation of $5,000 ($1,000 per year for five years) will be made to the not-for profit foundation, endowment, scholarship or charity of the selected nominee’s choice. The applicant whose nomination is selected will receive one case (12 bottles) of the 2015 Tribute Series Chardonnay upon release.
The submission criteria form can be found at www.mfvwines.com. Submissions must be sent via email to marketing@MFVwines.com and no later than Friday, Aug. 5 at 5 p.m. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/business/388575701.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/e1e2eb690840c381bcfd2debc58544a30cf90023e223fbc0b544c403cb6ea939.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-29T18:52:19 | null | null | Province has alternatives if Canada Post employees begin strike action | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391636531.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/40679BCLN2007CanadaPostMailboxwikim7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | B.C. prepares for possible postal disruption | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | The B.C. government's plan B for income assistance cheques and other time-sensitive documents could be re-activated as the long-running Canada Post labour dispute reaches another deadline.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers is in a legal position to strike as of Monday, but postponed threatened rotating strike action after weekend talks with a federal mediator. Its initial action would be an overtime ban rather than a full-scale walkout that would disrupt mail delivery.
Canada Post served lockout notice in July, with the two sides far apart on issues including pension changes for future employees and pay for rural carriers.
Income assistance, rent subsidy and other B.C. government payments are not affected if they are direct deposit. For mailed cheques and information, updates on possible postal strike effects to the Ministry of Social Development will be available as necessary at this website or at 1-866-866-0800.
Phone and online contacts are set up for questions about affected provincial departments:
• Ministry of Advanced Education and StudentAidBC online here.
• Ministry of Children and Family Development 1-877-387-7027
• Medical Services Plan payments online here or 1-877-405-4909
• ICBC inquiries 1-800-663-3051
• Family Maintenance and Enforcement program 604-660-2528
• Public Guardian and Trustee online here or 604-660-4444
• Vital Statistics 1-888-876-1633
• WorkSafe BC online here or 1-888-967-5377 | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391636531.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/c624f93f0f58c0fa6edbc77fd9fdddcd6df8c20eafa71c94e9bb8869067c0e67.json |
[
"Emanuel Sequeira"
] | 2016-08-28T22:52:43 | null | null | Penticton professional triathletes Jen Annett and Jeff Symonds are the female and male winners of the 2016 Challenge Penticton long course. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391550921.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/148penticton0831front2.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton triathletes win 2016 Challenge Penticton long course | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Jeff Symonds (left) and Jen Annett (right), both from Penticton, are the 2016 Challenge Penticton long course champions.
Penticton triathletes Jeff Symonds and Jen Annett would not be denied on home turf.
Symonds, born and raised in Penticton, and Annett, a Kelowna import, crossed the finish line first Sunday to claim the Challenge Penticton International Triathlon Union Long Course Championship.
"It feels awesome. It's the validation of all my hard work and the belief in myself. Just a great symbol that I'm back on track and I'm only going up from here," said Symonds. "It was absolutely important. It had been a tough year, I wanted a good race. You want to defend home soil, take a national title, qualify for that world championships."
Symonds was first overall in five hours, 32 minutes and 39 seconds, while Annett was 16th overall to win her first Challenge Penticton championship in 6:13:49.
Symonds said it was unbelievable to win at home, his third Challenge Penticton win. Symonds contributed his win to a great swim and seeing where guys were.
"You don't have to be in the lead to control the race," said Symonds, who completed the swim in 42:07, the bike in 3:02:49 and the run in 1:45:00. "I know that I can make up a deficit on the run. That's my strength. It was just knowing that those guys were within striking distance of me. It was good."
Symonds talked about taking a conservative approach on a new course distance and Drew Scott being a better cyclist. Symonds knew had to let Scott go.
"You've got to have that confidence in what you do well," said Symonds, who eagerly looked forward to a cold glass of water. "You got to play to your strengths and be honest about your weaknesses. I think it really helped me out on the course."
Scott, son of six-time Ironman World Champion Dave Scott, finished second overall. The Boulder, Col., resident completed the swim in 42:54, the bike in 1:54:39. In third was Jordan Bryden of Calgary. He clocked in at 5:40:46.
Annett said it was amazing to win in her hometown despite the pain she was feeling.
"I didn't think I had it. Liz (Elizabeth Lyles) had me until the Peach (concession stand) there. I saw a dollar sign on her butt and I kept following it," said Annett. "I just didn't want to lose at that point. She's an amazing runner. I'm just happy to have done what I did."
Annett, who twice finished in third place at Challenge Penticton, wasn't happy with her swim, which she finished in 52:42. She joked about wishing she could blame it on the waves or not wearing a wetsuit due to the warm water temperatures.
"It was just not a good swim. I just took it steady on the bike," said Annett, completing it in 3:13:42. "I think I came in second off the bike. Just stuck to the plan. That felt awesome and I felt amazing going on onto the run. Best I felt yet this year probably for racing. I just stayed in my own race until the last kilometre or so and then decided to kick it up. I'm happy."
And she received a massive welcome with the help of announcer Steve King.
With the victory, Annett has qualified for the Canadian team for 2017. When told that, Annett said, "Fricken amazing."
"It is a big deal. I get to race in my hometown and represent Canada and Penticton. It's awesome."
Lyles, of Reno, Nevada, followed Annett into the finish line 30 seconds later in 6:14:19. In third was Vancouver's Fawn Whiting, an age grouper, 30-34, in 6:20:29.
In the Aquabike, Coquitlam's Scott Dean won in 4:22:07, while the female winner was Vancouver's Tamasin Reno, who was third overall in 4:28:05.
More on this story to come. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391550921.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/9d36eeaec27dceae51ea9fb912420f41ef3c49392041fcabe1a54a6d5568ea13.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T00:52:54 | null | null | The BCHL's 2015-16 season featured a national championship, three NHL draft picks and a record of college commitments | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391668901.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/52134pentictonBCHLwebversion.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | BCHL sets record for college commitments | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | The British Columbia Hockey League.
The 2015-16 BCHL season was capped off by the West Kelowna Warriors winning their first RBC Cup national championship and three NHL draft picks.
The league achieved another big milestone — the highest number of college commitments with 148 in any season.
"Our league slogan is 'Smart Hockey' and it's clear the development and exposure our players receive in the BCHL is preparing them to succeed at the next level and in life," said BCHL commissioner John Grisdale in a press release. "Offering a chance at an education while pursuing a career in hockey is a fabulous combination and one we are proud to offer to so many players and their families."
Of the 148 college commitments from 2015-16, there were 123 to National Collegiate Athletic Association Div. I programs, nine to Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS), 11 to NCAA Div. III, three to the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC), one to the BC Intercollegiate Hockey League (BCIHL) and one to the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA).
The majority of the commitments were earned straight from the BCHL, while a number of the scholarships were accepted by players prior to coming to the league.
"College programs that want their recruits to develop in our league before going to school are making an extremely strong endorsement of the opportunity we offer," said BCHL communications director Brent Mutis. "The skill development and maturity that come with BCHL experience give coaches at the next level confidence that our graduates can step into their roster and contribute right away."
Each of the 17 BCHL franchises had multiple college-committed players on their roster last season. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391668901.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/79e7d618d51fcffb1c0d464b1d0170ffaaeb97a73ac96992bf5de793d14712c9.json |
[
"Emanuel Sequeira"
] | 2016-08-31T00:53:04 | null | null | Penticton's Dave Matheson will represent Canada next year after winning his age group in Challenge Penticton | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391806901.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/17753penticton0831Matheson-Pen-.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Triathlete overcomes cramps to win Challenge Penticton age group title | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | DAVE MATHESON of Penticton won the 45-49 age group in the Challenge Penticton International Triathlon Union Long Course National Championship.
The highlight of Dave Matheson’s Challenge Penticton day Aug. 28 was crossing the finish line, seeing his wife Tina and hearing Steve King call him in.
“That’s always the highlight, especially when you’ve pretty much had enough of racing,” he joked. “You just want it to be done. That’s definitely how I felt (Sunday) yesterday.”
Matheson, a Penticton native, is the 45-49 age group International Triathlon Union National Champ, but it wasn’t easy. He completed the three-kilometre swim, 120-km bike and 30-km run distance in six hours, 22 minutes, 24 seconds.
Competing in an unfamiliar distance, Matheson was unsure how to pace himself. He said he went a little too hard at the first lap of the bike, which he completed in three hours, 21 minutes and eight seconds. He got through the first 24-km in 38:06. The next 48-km he finished in 1:19:58 and the final 48-km in 1:23:04. Matheson felt pain the rest of the race.
“I just kept it going and hung on,” he laughed, adding he suffered cramps on the second loop of the bike. “I’m used to the iron distance and I know how to pace that.”
Despite those challenges, Matheson liked the course a lot, saying it was nice being able to come into town each loop.
“I find that kind of motivating just to get the crowd support,” said Matheson, who finished 13th overall among age group athletes. “I definitely liked the run course because it was nice and flat. It’s just nice seeing your competitors and kind of gauging where you’re at.
“I didn’t really know what to expect this year because I knew it was going to be much more competitive, being a national championship event,” he continued. “That was the ultimate goal was to win. It turned out pretty good for me.”
Winning also means that Matheson, winner of Ultraman Canada triathlon in 2013, will compete with Team Canada at the ITU Penticton 2017 Multisport World Championships Festival.
“I’m pretty excited to do that here in the hometown. It’s quite an honour actually,” said Matheson, who competed in Challenge Roth six weeks ago and finished as the second top Canadian. “Taking first is always really rewarding, especially when you put a lot of work into it. You can’t really pass it up when it’s right here in your home town.”
Penticton had 36 athletes compete in the Long Course, four of whom did not finish. Ellis Andrews was the oldest, competing in the 70 to 74 age group and finished in 9:29:29. Tyler Berthelsen was the youngest, competing in the 20-24 age group and finished in 8:55:28. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391806901.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/f915fb9e814d8dc5655bfe866a613a26307cd65d8f251d50c6b36db3bdf9608a.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:09:56 | null | null | Collector plates will be available next year for modified as well as stock cars made between 1958 and 1974 | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F389536851.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/25111BCLN2007Chevrolet_Camaro1969-wikim7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Collector program expanding to 'muscle cars' | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Modified versions of the 1969 Camaro SS and other popular vehicles will soon be eligible for B.C. collector plates, allowing occasional use for parades and car shows.
The B.C. government is expanding its collector vehicle licence system to include eligible modified cars made between 1958 and 1974, to capture the popular "muscle car" era of the 1960s.
The ICBC collector plate program gives car enthusiasts a lower-cost licence plate that allows occasional use for parades and classic car shows. ICBC plans to take applications starting in 2017 for eligible modified vehicles up to 1974, and replica cars resembling North American production cars from 1942 and earlier.
With strict rules that the cars must be in "collectible condition," changes will take in modified popular cars from the Dodge Duster to the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang, as well as replicas of the popular Ford "deuce coupe" from the 1930s.
Premier Christy Clark announced a break for older cars this spring, allowing vehicles from 1940 or earlier and their replicas to run without fenders or mud flaps when the highway is dry and paved.
Transportation Minister Todd Stone said the collector car industry is significant for B.C., with registered collector vehicles having doubled to 26,000 in the past 10 years.
"We want to see this specialty vehicle program remain viable, preserve vehicle history and evolve with the times," Stone said. "That's why we are opening up the opportunity to owners of specialty cars within the 'muscle car' era."
Currently, the standard collector plate is available to cars 25 years or older, as well as discontinued or limited production vehicles 15 years or older. It requires a stock engine with no performance enhancements, no rust, dents or "significant wear and tear" of the interior.
Modified vehicles from 1958 or older are currently eligible for collector plates, if they retain the shell of the original body but have parts replaced or modified in the chassis, engine, suspension, steering or brakes.
Owners have to apply for a collector or modified collector plate, with purchase and parts bills, photos and inspection reports.
Applications for collector and modified collector programs are available on ICBC's website, www.icbc.com, and can be dropped off at Autoplan brokers. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/lifestyles/389536851.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/c325c1ab388d890f44222eac715ff11e911dde5eb21fcd3f5d8271816295e97c.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T22:49:58 | null | null | Volunteers to ask seniors about staff, food, privacy, medications and other conditions in residential care | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F391445481.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/18269BCLN2007Nursinghomeflickr7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Senior home survey seeks volunteers | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | B.C. has 300 seniors' care facilities, and residents and their loved ones are to be surveyed on conditions.
More than 250 volunteers have signed up to compile a survey of seniors in residential care, and B.C.'s Seniors Advocate is looking for more.
The 27,000 seniors living in 300 residential care facilities around the province are being asked about their experience with care home staff, the quality of food, privacy, medications and other conditions.
It's the first comprehensive survey done in B.C., to measure resident satisfaction and provide a "roadmap" for improvements, said Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie.
Interviews will be conducted in person by trained volunteers, and a matching mail-out survey will be sent to each resident's most frequent visitor.
The project is seeking volunteers with a range of professional backgrounds, ages and ethnicities. To apply as a volunteer, visit www.surveybcseniors.org or call the Office of the Seniors Advocate at 1-877-952-3181. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/lifestyles/391445481.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/183a1bd3115436aa0d3b639ba5741a3d886bff2358f73b3be6e32c013bb93e67.json |
[
"Mark Brett"
] | 2016-08-26T20:49:22 | null | null | Christmas came early for the South Okanagan Women in Need Society (SOWINS) thanks to the nearly 40 riders. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391342201.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/68125penticton0824toyride07.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | South Okanagan motorcyclists cruising for a cause | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Motorcycle riders leave the Penticton Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion Sunday on a three-hour journey to raise money and toy donations for the South Okanagan Women in Need Society for distribution to client families at Christmas.
Christmas came early for the South Okanagan Women in Need Society (SOWINS) thanks to the nearly 40 riders who took part in Sunday’s first annual Royal Canadian Legion Branch 40 Motorcycle Toy Run.
“We had a great day and for our first year we were really happy with the turnout we had. Everybody had a good time, the food was great, the music was good it was just an all around great day,” said organizer Paul James. “We got 136 toys and raised around $2,000 and I just can’t say how grateful I am to all of those riders who took part.”
The parade of motorcyclists left the Legion following a pancake breakfast and blessing just after 10 a.m. under an RCMP motorcycle escort. The three-hour trip went along Green Mountain Road, around Keremeos to Cawston then to Osoyoos and back to Penticton where they enjoyed a barbecue, auction and two live bands at the legion.
“From the bottom of my heart I just want to thank all the volunteers and everyone of the sponsors who helped make this such a success for the first year,” said James. “And absolutely we’re going to do it again next year.”
SOWINS Executive director Debbie Scarborough also expressed her gratitude to everyone who helped make the event such a success.
“I had the opportunity to speak with many of the organizers and riders in the morning before they set out for the bike ride and the one thing that kept coming back to my mind was how passionate this group was for helping the children and teens that SOWINS serves,” she said. “Their excitement for supporting us with these Christmas in August gifts was very appreciated and we can’t wait to partner with everyone again next year.”
There will be a similar ride Sept. 18 when the Okanagan Motorcycle Riders Association (OMRA) will hold its 29th annual South Okanagan Toy Run.
It starts with the Lions Club breakfast at 9 a.m. at the Peach in Rotary Park followed by the ride which includes stops in Summerland, Oliver and Okanagan Falls.
Proceeds go to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul for distribution to less fortunate families at Christmas. For more information contact Roy Colmer at 250-809-4757. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/community/391342201.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/4630ee4ce5027c96898dc384dc559442f1b7464f9a6365cfca0ef0a911e599d6.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-30T18:52:33 | null | null | Some urban districts struggle with overcrowding, special funds for declining rural schools, bus service to take effect | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391773061.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/2045BCLN2007Schoolstudentblurwide-BJ7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | B.C. school enrolment up for second year | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Students return to public school next week, with changes to curriculum and some provincial exams.
Students are returning to class next week in most of B.C.'s public schools, with enrolment expected to be up province-wide for the second year running.
Education Minister Mike Bernier says early forecasts show about 529,000 students, an increase of 2,900 from last year. But that increase is centred on fast-growing school districts, while many rural areas continue to struggle with declining student numbers.
Among changes that parents and students will see this year is a new curriculum in place up to Grade 9, with a test year for changes in the senior grades. Bernier said the new emphasis on collaboration and communication skills does not mean a watering down of the basic skills, and is designed to improve students' ability to work at modern jobs.
Report cards are to continue this school year, but the ministry is reviewing its system with an eye to providing more frequent updates. Parents are being consulted on the changes, Bernier said.
Foundation Skills Assessment tests in grades four and seven are also continuing after years of protests from teacher unions, but that program is also being examined for possible changes. FSA tests will be "enhanced" but not eliminated, Bernier said.
Provincial exams continue for graduates in math and English, but science and social studies will now be assessed at a classroom level rather than school-wide tests, Bernier said.
The ministry provided a series of top-ups to education funding this year, for bus service and to keep selected rural schools from closing. Applications are still being taken for a transportation fund until Sept. 30, requiring districts to drop across-the-board school bus fees to qualify.
Districts may still charge transportation fees for international students or those from outside a school catchment area.
NDP leader John Horgan highlighted the crowding in Surrey school district, where 7,000 students remain in portables despite an expansion program. The NDP says the B.C. government's claim of record per-student funding ignores a reduction of education funding as a share of the provincial economy.
"Since 2001, the B.C. Liberals have dragged public education funding in this province from the second best in Canada to the second worst," Horgan said. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391773061.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/1f68e9c0f6aeba41e97aa728d222210bfca7ec27f8df91cb3a869a387f30d6f1.json |
[
"Kathy Michaels"
] | 2016-08-26T13:02:30 | null | null | The parade itself brought in an estimated 5,000 people, which is a significant increase from years past. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F390338261.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Okanagan Pride Festival attracts huge crowd, signals evolving community | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | As thousands of rainbow clad men, women and children marched along Kelowna's waterfront Saturday morning with arm's slung around one another, one point was made abundantly clear—love is love.
"We know there are people who are naysayers or are hateful. But on the bulk people are accepting and they know that love is just love," said Okanagan Pride festival president Sydney Lawson.
"I'm really stubborn and I know hate is not going to win. And I think that's been shown here and all of our events through the week."
The sheer volume of Okanaganites who went out to support varying pride events last week were a testament to Lawson's belief that acceptance of differences is increasingly the norm.
The parade itself brought in an estimated 5,000 people, which is a significant increase from years past. Among the revelers were politicians of varying levels of government.
Mayor Basran issued a pride proclamation, and made a call for greater tolerance within the community. Penticton Mayor Andrew Jakubeit and Peachland Mayor Cindy Fortin were also in attendance.
Kelowna Lake Country MP Stephen Fuhr led the march, and spoke of his government's support of LBGTQ rights.
And, perhaps getting the most fanfare, Premier Christy Clark marched in the parade. Due to time constraints, Lawson said she didn't speak to the crowd.
While Lawson stressed that the event wasn't supposed to be political, the presence of elected officials sets a tone for the community that is increasingly noticeable.
"You know what, the other day I saw a kid 13 or 14 leave the candy store with his friend, and as they walked out the door they held each other's hands," said Lawson. "That touched my heart… To be so young and so confident and feel safe in their community— that is wonderful."
For more pictures as well as video go to the Capital News-Kelowna Facebook page. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/community/390338261.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/daed19db90fe38c8e61fc909f697a915496e7df984d7fc66ae6ca12803d7a9b5.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:14:05 | null | null | Robin Greer's team won the Penticton scramble, while Lil Smith won Summerland ladies low net game | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391336441.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton, Summerland senior golf | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Greer’s group takes Penticton scramble
The senior men hosted the ladies in Penticton Golf and Country Club senior five-person scramble action Aug. 24. Robin Greer, Kathy Hofmann, Raoul Gauthier and Thelma Johnston shot nine-under, 61 to win.
In second with 63 were Cy Gladish, Tim Gladish, Ron Gladish, Babs Gladish and Shirley Nichols.
Full house brings home win for Smith in Summerland Golf
Lil Smith earned a full house to win the Summerland Golf and Country Ladies Club played a low net game on Aug. 23.
The golfer played poker on the side to make the event interesting. Each players was given one card to start, then then cards for a chip in, one card for one putt, no cards for a two-putt and gave back a card for a three-putt. Marilyn Tamblyn had a pair with queen’s and fives; Mandy McConaghy a pair with jack’s and nine’s. Helen Benallick also had a pair five’s and two’s, while Jeanette McCarron earned a pair of aces.
Lil Smith and Francis Colussi topped the low net with 72, while Val Eibner tied Jeanette McCarron with 74 and Helen Pybus 80. In the second flight, Anka Manders scored 72; Sheila Westgate 73; Helen Benallick 76; Norma Chambers 78; Diana Leitch tied Betsy McAndrews 79. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391336441.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/89cb99f6ff476685aa78c8d86fc5cf3ce0d289f53e47837653590ece32beeacc.json |
[] | 2016-08-31T02:53:09 | null | null | Penticton Speedway welcomed drivers from the West Coast Vintage Racers on the weekend | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391807301.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/18112penticton0827speedway01.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | VINTAGE SPEEDSTERS | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | VINTAGE SPEEDSTERS — Four of the 14 cars from West Coast Vintage Racers — White, Mark Lees, 33, Ralph Monhay, 19, Ken Welkie and ,81, Robert Henry, compete in a trophy dash at Penticton Speedway Saturday. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391807301.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/d9b696d62d17b2c90ac79eb69f788c46d1a03c70e46ca2fc34a205a8e8cd4dfd.json |
[
"Dale Boyd"
] | 2016-08-26T12:56:38 | null | null | Positive Thinking is the sixth album from the Vancouver garage rock duo who are set to play the Ponderosa festival in Rock Creek Aug. 20. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F390637311.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/28041penticton0803-PackAD.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Pack A.D. talk new album prior to Ponderosa performance | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | The world is getting a little bit of Positive Thinking.
The just-released sixth album by the grungy, garage-rock Vancouver duo Pack A.D. was a comparatively long time coming.
The duo, comprised of singer/guitarist Becky Black and drummer Maya Miller, took a two-year break in between albums to put Positive Thinking together, a change of pace from their simultaneous writing and touring of years past.
“We usually would write a bunch of songs within a month or two months and go and record them on an album, but this time we thought why don’t we take actual time off. Write a bit, record a bit, so we kind of like staggered it that way,” Black said.
Black added after years of touring, with the ability to fill both bars and stadiums with a robust sound for a two-member band, the two were feeling a bit burned out. The break resulted in a more polished take on making an album.
“We had a collection of songs at the end of it to choose from, so it was sort of a different process, I kind of like it this way — although I don’t always recommend taking two years to write an album,” Black laughed. “But it worked out I think.”
The idea, Black said, was to have an album lacking any “filler” songs.
“But I don’t know if you can ever really get away from that. Also, that’s subjective, someone’s favourite song is somebody else’s filler.”
Originally, the two sectioned off from a four-piece band, hosting secret practices with just the two of them and bringing songs back to the band.
After forming Pack A.D., they planned on adding more members, but ended up liking the dynamics in the duo.
“We just went with it. Honestly, for as many years as we did that, we weren’t making a lot of money. So having two people was useful, but you know, that’s the logistic side,” Black said.
Simple is not a dirty word when it comes to Pack A.D. and the raw sound a guitar/drum duo can create.
“It is simple. There are more things you can do. You can have a loop pedal, electronic things going on. You can do a lot with two people, but we try and tend to keep it simple, what we can actually play in front of you live is what we try and record,” Black said. “We don’t have a bass player or anything, so in order to make up the lack of low-end I play loudly out of two amps.”
When the Western News caught up with Black in her Vancouver home, she was fresh off a Canadian/American tour, after which she was unusually ready to get out and hit the stage again.
“Weirdly, it was a really good tour and I’m not that tired and ready to go out again. Usually after a tour I’m like, thank God that’s over, but it was just the right amount of time.”
Positive Thinking has been ready to go for a while now, and Black is ready to continue doing what she does best, bringing the music to the fans.
“Now I feel like it’s been done for awhile so I’m ready to do the other part which is being in a band and playing shows,” Black said.
Pack A.D. hit the Pinecone Stage at the Ponderosa Music and Art festival in Rock Creek at 9:30 p.m. on Aug. 20. Tickets and camping passes are still available at www.ponderosafestival.com. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/entertainment/390637311.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/4939bd94d2080826dbdb504cd3fd07deaf78d432b892a9f36fd0c587d2e26182.json |
[
"Dale Boyd"
] | 2016-08-26T12:58:24 | null | null | Nikita Afonso is bringing her band back from Vancouver to perform at the Sunshine Cabaret concert series at Gyro Park on Aug. 19. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F390320461.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/1876pentictonS-Nikita-credit-MirandaLandryPhotography-.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton's Afonso goes back to her roots | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Nikita Afonso is returning to Penticton.
The born-and-raised musician is bringing her band back from Vancouver, where she now lives, to perform at the Sunshine Cabaret concert series at Gyro Park on Aug. 19.
After leaving home and taking a music and technology program in Nelson, Afonso followed her dreams to Vancouver to try and become a professional musician. No easy task for anyone.
“The first couple of months were definitely the hardest,” Afonso said.
Paying the not-so-cheap Vancouver rent was the first thing on her priority list, landing a job at a coffee shop, then months later working at a music store.
She performed with her band, solo and is now part of a jazz duo. She started getting enough gigs to cut her hours down to part time at the music store.
“I’m basically just performing now it’s awesome. That’s the whole reason why I moved here, it’s what I wanted to do and even more if I can,” Afonso said.
She’s currently working on releasing an as-of-yet untitled EP. The six-song offering was recorded at the iconic Warehouse Studio in Vancouver.
“I’m really excited for that,” Afonso said.
It’s the first follow-up to her full-length album in 2012.
“I never toured that one, I never had a proper release party for it. This next one coming out I really want to do it properly,” Afonso said.
She said she’s got her feet more steadily underneath her this time around. She had the itch to make something new, but with a little patience she found the right team of musicians and the right producer to make it all fit.
Some of it came together quickly, though.
“There’s a song on there called Mild, I wrote it in like an hour. It just kind of flew together. From that moment I was like, OK, this song is going to be on the EP. I feel like if something happens that quick it’s kind of meant to be and deserves to be recorded and heard,” Afonso said.
Some of the new songs can be heard at Gyro Park when Afonso comes to town.
“Since I grew up in Penticton I have a lot of supporters and they’ve continuously, even since I moved away, support me. I don’t really get a lot of chances to go back to Penticton to perform so I wanted to pick one date, go back and play as much as I can,” said Afonso who will also play at the Farmers’ Market on Aug. 20.
“I’m really excited. I used to play at the Farmers' Market every single Saturday in high school,” Afonso said. “I haven’t had a chance to ever since I moved out of town. I love busking, I can’t wait to get back to it.” | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/entertainment/390320461.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/b7d9ac7e0a2dd46fbf079341ab494286a510ef8f3cca900a43b886c822eb38d1.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:09:11 | null | null | Few BC Parks bookings going to commercial operators, solution is more campsite spaces, Environment Minister Mary Polak says | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F385640471.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/18489BCLN2007CampingBarriereLakeJasonKoppwiki7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Provincial campsite rush mostly B.C. residents | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Solitude in the wilderness is still available in B.C., between holiday weekends when demand peaks at B.C.'s most popular parks.
Foreign visitors and those on package tours are a small fraction of the demand for B.C. Parks campgrounds around the province, but B.C. resident campers are still using a few tricks to get spaces for high-demand parks.
Some have protested the use of online reservations by motorhome tour operators who sell them as part of a package for tourists.
"Our provincial campsites are not products to be sold, they belong to the people of B.C.," Green Party leader Andrew Weaver said this week.
Environment Minister Mary Polak told Black Press numbers are being tracked for the current year, and the proportions haven't changed much. In 2015, fewer than one per cent of reservable B.C. Parks spaces were booked by tour operators, who also use private camping facilities.
Three quarters of reservations are from within B.C. The second highest share is from Alberta at 14 per cent, the U.S. accounts for 3.6 per cent, the rest of Canada 2.8 per cent, and all European countries combined are 6.6 per cent of the total.
The BC Parks system has 10,700 camping spaces in total, and 5,600 are reservable, to manage demand for the most popular spots.
First-come, first-served sites are kept out of the reservation system in some popular locations to accommodate travellers who drop in along the road. For high-demand periods like the recent Canada Day weekend, savvy campers work the reservation system.
At Golden Ears Provincial Park, one group booked for two weeks as soon as the 90-day eligibility window opened, then dropped the first week, giving them the coveted Canada Day weekend dates before they were generally available.
"Every year we look to change things to keep people from cheating, and every year they find new ways," Polak said. "Really the only answer is going to be finding a way to expand the number of sites that we have available."
It's shaping up as a record year for the Discover Camping reservation service, with 92,000 bookings so far this year.
B.C. Parks has added four new sites for this summer. Reservations can be made for Garibaldi Provincial Park in the Whistler area, Ruckle Provincial Park on Saltspring Island, Okanagan Falls Provincial Park, Inland Lake Provincial Park near Powell River and Dry Gulch Provincial Park near Radium Hot Springs. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/lifestyles/385640471.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/e181d3a338e6aa16fd5a0af286dde836c3ec1d19f968bcbdf9d275fddee3caa1.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:48 | null | null | Police are asking for the public's assistance in locating a missing Penticton resident who has been out of contact since Aug. 3. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391184311.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/2092pentictonMissing-DanRoss.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton man missing | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Penticton man Dan Ross is missing.
Penticton RCMP are asking the public to be on the lookout for a missing Penticton man.
Dan Ross was last seen Aug. 3. Ross is a 32-year-old caucasian male, six foot one inch tall, with brown hair and brown eyes.
He was last seen wearing tan shorts, a white T-shirt and white running shoes.
Police said in a press release they are very concerned for Ross’ health and well-being. Friends and family have reported that it is out of character for him to be out of contact this long.
Anyone with information of the whereabouts of Ross is urged to call the Penticton RCMP or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391184311.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/f52d85baf641824e8d2b689a2935ed6640ff971b3c082110572e9203c0e185e4.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-28T16:52:09 | null | null | Beginning Saturday, Sept. 10 through to Saturday, Oct. 29, the market will set up in the 500 and 600 blocks of Main Street. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391429331.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/11852penticton0502market02.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton Farmers' Market moving in September | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | The Penticton Farmers' Market is moving to the 500 and 600 blocks of Main Street from Sept. 10 to Oct. 29.
The Penticton Farmers’ Market is packing up and moving locations.
Beginning Saturday, Sept. 10 through to Saturday, Oct. 29, the market will set up in the 500 and 600 blocks of Main Street and will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“The City of Penticton is starting revitalization construction in the 100 block after the Labour Day weekend, so we’ve been asked to relocate for the rest of the season,” said market manager Erin Trainer. “We considered several locations but chose the 500 and 600 blocks because there’s plenty of room for everyone and parking nearby at Pen High. In addition, many of the businesses are excited to have us.”
Customers can expect to find all of the market's regular vendors including farmers, crafters, prepared-food and liquor vendors. The businesses in the 500 and 600 blocks of Main Street have also been invited to participate in the market by setting up tents in front of their stores.
“September and October are very busy months for our farmers, especially as customers prepare for canning season. Tomatoes, apples, corn and squash are ready for harvesting, and it’s a fun time to be at the market. We're certainly not scaling back, and we’re hoping our customers will continue to support us in our new location,” said market society president Justene Wright.
Following the last outdoor market on Saturday, Oct. 29, the farmers’ market will move into the Shatford Centre for its annual Winter Markets on Nov. 5 and 19 and Dec. 3 and 17. The farmers’ market will return to the 100 block of Main Street in April 2017.
The Penticton Farmers’ Market is run by a non-profit society whose mandate is to provide an opportunity for local, small-scale agricultural producers and crafters to sell their produce and products directly to the public. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391429331.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/277912db5748fae3d720d6e5580b50530f9ba2d4b788da514d7b73eff7f3b98c.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:10:27 | null | null | Imagine if the city had their way and put parallel parking on Lakeshore? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391340121.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Much more to come | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | I am glad to see all the tourists in town enjoying Penticton, place has been packed, the farmers’ market is packed and exciting and the beaches full of sunbathers.
Imagine if the city had their way and put parallel parking on Lakeshore? Recently it took me three passes to find one available parking spot. I wondered why there were so many tourists, so did some research and what is negative on a world-scale is positive for Canada in the tourism sector. Our low dollar has been a major draw. American tourists are way up as well as international tourists, especially with terrorism in European/Middle Eastern countries, many are looking for safer places to travel and Canada is favoured for being a safe country to travel.
I am certain Canada will benefit long term from this — I am sure the city will be patting themselves that this was exclusively their doing.
I also noticed the parks have also been packed and very well utilized contrary to city hall beliefs. More tourists, more use of parks, hence we need more park/greenspace as tourism expands. I doubt the mayor and council will read this, as we must assume they have been gag ordered since election day to fulfill their dream team agenda without guilt from public outcry, also meaning it will not stop and much more is yet to come.
With this belief by so many, it is time to end this third-world politics and restore the democratic process that so many Canadians have been proud to fight for (with the exception of Penticton politicians, of course).
Clifford Martin
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391340121.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/cec136a4e3699a14c1a0468cf9f88d5937efa71bbf7c9c6316e2608d415f0530.json |
[
"Dale Boyd"
] | 2016-08-26T13:00:10 | null | null | The Pentastic Jazz Festival is set to host St. Louis, seven-member jazz band Cornet Chop Suey for three days. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F391101111.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/63015penticton0824-Jazz-Cornet.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Cornet Chop Suey coming to jazz fest | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | He has played over 20 festivals in a year, but there was a time long ago when Cornet Chop Suey’s cornet player, Tom Tucker, was going to call it quits.
A retired marine was Tucker’s first band teacher growing up in St. Louis playing trumpet when he was 12 years old. Tucker said he was the typical drill-instructor.
“He would be really critical, I would come home to my mom and say ‘I’m not going to keep up with it,’ and she’d say ‘well, just try it another week,’” Tucker said. “She just kept saying ‘another week, another week.’”
Meanwhile, his teacher would liken his trumpet playing to the “sound of an old moo-cow.”
“I have to give (my mom) credit for keeping me in it because I was close to saying ‘ah, this isn’t for me,’” Tucker said. “I’m sure glad she did, I’d have trouble seeing my life without music.”
After getting drafted into the Navy in the early 1960s, Tucker remained in the reserves until the ‘80s, and after some time away, returned to the music he loved throughout high school and college after selling an auto dealership he owned with his brother. Tucker was never a classically trained musician outside of high school band, but his love for jazz tunes kept him coming back.
“This sounds like a good ol’ boy statement, but I’m a high school musician with a love for music and an ear,” Tucker said.
Cornet Chop Suey, named after the famed Louie Armstrong song, formed out of the St. Louis jazz scene in the late ‘90s and got onto the festival circuit in the early 2000s.
Tucker’s first love was traditional jazz or Dixieland, while co-leader Brian Casserly came out of a blues background. The diverse seven-member group brings along influences from big band and cool jazz to bebop and everything in between.
A St. Louis promoter was talking to Tucker and Casserly, asking if they would be interested in forming a band with two horns on the front line.
Casserly and Tucker knew of each other but hadn’t officially met yet.
“A lot of the times the same instrument, with type-A personalities they end up not having room for each other, but we got along so well and I think it was Brian at the end of it who said we ought to think of doing something together,” Tucker said.
It was Casserly who came up with the Armstrong-inspired moniker while the band was forming.
“It was great for me because it’s a Dixieland tune name. (Casserly) says on stage sometimes in a kidding way that Louie Armstrong wrote that for us back in 1925,” Tucker laughed.
The group started out playing one festival in 2001, but by 2002 they were playing eight.
“It just took off,” Tucker said.
They have played shows in Germany, Switzerland and Italy and have been to the Pentastic Jazz Festival in Penticton five times.
Cornet Chop Suey play the Pentastic Jazz Festival at different venues for all three days of the event, Sept. 9 to 11. Visit www.pentasticjazz.com for more information. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/entertainment/391101111.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/023223c51fca2a6ed7524a2c15e31987abb27f87ccce70855f58f3e8e614553e.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:06:59 | null | null | No permit required for weddings, festivals on farms if fewer than 150 people attend, says Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F388995481.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/15664BCLN2007farmWeddingCarriagewikim7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Brides, bands allowed back on farmland | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Almost a year after B.C. farm weddings were banned due to a crackdown on agricultural land use rules, the B.C. government has clarified what commercial activities are allowed on farmland.
Farmers can host up to 10 commercial weddings, concerts or non-agricultural events per year without a permit from the Agricultural Land Commission. Farmers can take payment to host a wedding or other event as long as no more than 150 guests attend and a list of conditions are met, according to regulations that took effect Tuesday.
To qualify, event hosts must provide all parking on the farm rather than along roads, with no permanent parking lots or structures, and the event must end in less than 24 hours. For more than 10 events a year or exceeding 150 guests, properties with farm tax status must apply to the ALC for a permit.
The new regulation also clarifies ALC policies to allow, with no permit, farm tours and demonstrations, hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin patch tours, harvest and Christmas fairs and special occasion events to promote farm products.
Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick said the regulation requiring farms to generate at least 50 per cent of its revenue from farm products is also scrapped, after consultation in the past year suggested the new rules instead.
The crackdown on farm weddings came last fall, when the ALC issued stop-work orders to B.C. farms including the Fraser Valley, Kelowna and Vancouver Island.
The restriction came after the province expanded farm uses to allow breweries and distilleries to operate on protected farmland with the same rules used to permit wineries. The rules allowed for processing of farm crops into products such as juice or jam for commercial sale. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/business/388995481.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/d6c5db761484445404f2ddca1b91aa4b8b34ff11cc419809f2bf6f2b73753cca.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T12:55:32 | null | null | Penticton Secondary graduate Mike Reno leads Loverboy on stage at Rock the Lake. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F390320871.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/2060pentictonjs-loverboy1-8-15-16.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Loverboy Rocks the Lake in Kelowna | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Jennifer Smith/Black Press
Penticton Secondary graduate Mike Reno leads Loverboy on stage alongside guitarist Paul Dean and drummer Mike Frenette (both formerly of Streetheart) during Rock the Lake Friday at Kelowna's Prospera Place.
Opening acts for the festival were Kick Ax, Prism and Loverboy. Some of the other artists that performed included Jerry Doucette, Lee Aaron and Trooper. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/entertainment/390320871.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/ac909d7e0dd9a1909d829c65371cdd958dcdceb3f5d0a6063aec45787ddb0d28.json |
[
"Kristi Patton"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:38 | null | null | There has been a lot of discussion on the sexism at the Rio Olympics. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2F390630301.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/25772pentictonclippedPatton-Kristicolour-web1-.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | PATTON: Aesthetics over athletics for women in sport | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Kristi Patton is the editor of the Penticton Western News
There has been a lot of discussion on the sexism at the Rio Olympics.
While I am sure there will be more remarks made over the course of the Olympics there is a more important issue —will it change and how?
Part of the problem is the lack of knowledgeable journalists covering those sports. Some are probably thrown into situations where they barely know the sport, never mind the personalities. I have seen it first hand. Standing in the mix zone, where athletes are available to the media after training or competition, I have overheard journalists ask the most inane questions that shows that the reporter hadn’t researched the sport, let alone the athlete.
Worse yet is that women in sports aren’t covered on a continual basis, so journalists can’t get to know their personalities and nuances of the sport. Think of the 2014 Sochi Olympics women’s hockey gold medal final. It will go down as one of the most exciting hockey games at the Olympics. Canada squeaked in the tying goal to send it to overtime and then captured gold over the U.S. in an intense few minutes of extra-time action. Some 13 million Canadians tuned in to watch. If you were one of the people who watched that game, ask yourself when the next time you watched the national team, or in fact any women’s hockey, since. I bet I know the answer.
Partially because they have barely been on TV since — the world championship last year had a decent amount of coverage because it was held in Kamloops. The general public also doesn’t know where these U.S. and Canadian women play outside of the Olympics, FYI it’s college/university, the Canadian Women’s Hockey League (without pay) and last year in the inaugural season of the National Women’s Hockey League (top salary was about $18,000).
Several studies have recently come out about sexism in sports that point to deeper troubles. An analysis of Sports Illustrated and ESPN The Magazine covers shows that 64 per cent of female athletes featured are shown in passive poses such as glamour and sexualized shots. The majority (61 per cent) of men are portrayed in action-orientated imagery emphasizing their skill in their respective sport.
A study by the Cambridge University Press shows gender divides in the language of sport. Analyzing millions of words relating to men and women in Olympic sports they found men or man is referenced twice as much as woman or women. As well it states language around women in sport disproportionately focuses on appearance, clothes and the personal lives of women.
Strides are being made, tennis now offers the same prize money to both genders, but they aren’t happening fast enough. Just over a year ago one of Canada’s top tennis players Eugenie Bouchard was asked to “give us a twirl” during an on court interview with a male reporter after she dominated her opponent at the Australian Open. Shots were also taken at Bouchard when a CBC Rio Olympics reporter was critical of her loss in the second round. He said she was too busy spending time on social media taking selfies of her hairstyles and caring more about beauty and fashion instead of being a competitor on the tennis court. Sigh.
After winning bronze, U.S. trap shooter Corey Cogdell was the topic of this Tweet from theChicago Tribune “Wife of Bears’ lineman wins a bronze medal today in Rio Olympics.” Double sigh.
Out of frustration of the coverage of women at the Olympics someone pointed out “Former Miss California’s fiancé wins Olympic medals” was never a headline anywhere. The fiancé being swimmer Michael Phelps.
The good news here is that fans are starting to speak up. Biting response to the sexism at the Games via social media has been abundant — coming from men and women, another important step. It is time people start speaking up and not dismissing sexist statements by paying more attention and demanding more coverage of women’s sport.
How about we give that a twirl?
Kristi Patton is the editor of the Penticton Western News and started her career as a sports journalist. She has also worked as a reporter at two Winter Olympic Games. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/390630301.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/91b4ed9439734e7544f0a1b9b30fd55cc914ed511330fba8d2b53a3fa7057872.json |
[
"Dale Boyd"
] | 2016-08-26T12:59:13 | null | null | The Hollywood actor has been a musician for much longer, and is bringing his band to the Mule Sept. 11. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F391353911.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/73819penticton0826-Boxmasters.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Billy Bob Thornton talks Boxmasters | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | A young Billy Bob Thornton watching the famed Beatles appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show on a black-and-white TV in 1964 would carry that influence with him for the rest of his life.
He was a big fan of The Animals and The Kinks and while he is widely known for his acting roles, Thornton has been playing in bands since he was a teenager, picking up the drums at the age of 10. In his late teens he would open for likes of ZZ Top and Humble Pie.
“When I saw Ringo on television I said ‘you know what, I’d like to do that,’” Thornton laughed.
Thornton became a roadie for a couple of years working for a lot of big name bands and ending up in California.
“I tried to get into a band out there and found out it was harder than I thought,” Thornton said. “One thing led to the next and I started recording again in the ‘90s. It’s been a long road. We still feel like we’re 19 year olds in a band trying to make it.”
It was while recording one of his solo albums that he met Boxmasters rhythm guitarist J.D. Andrew, who was working as an audio engineer on Thornton’s 2007 album Beautiful Door, and the two made a connection through the love of British Invasion music.
“I was supposed to do a song for someone on a TV show and the rest of the band wasn’t there and I got J.D. to do it because I knew he played guitar,” Thornton said. “We liked the sound.”
Both were influenced by the invasion of British rock music, striking a connection over that sound.
“They (the Beatles) took American music and put it into sort of a pop form that was radio-friendly for the times over here. It was just one of the things that we all grew up listening to,” Thornton said.
“They really took the early American music and expanded on it. You really get into The Beatles because at the beginning they have the catchy, poppy songs you could grasp a hold of and really be a fan of. But as they grew and changed musically, people and the times changed with them. They were never doing the same thing. They were always evolving,” Andrew said.
Something The Boxmasters ended up emulating.
“We’ve really taken from that model. We’ve almost been together 10 years, which is just about as long as The Beatles. We had done the same thing. We started with more country influences with steel guitars and stuff like that, but as we’ve gone on, it’s less of that and more of rock ’n’ roll stuff, bits of Pink Floyd, Warren Zevon and John Prine,” Andrew said. “There’s ambient, texture kind of things happening as well as good ol’ jangely rock ’n’ roll tunes.”
It was that connection during that first session with Andrew that ended up creating The Boxmasters.
“We dipped into this kind of unique sound that was a little different than what I was doing on my solo records and we decided to form the band,” Thornton said.
They developed a sound they dubbed Modbilly, not quite rockabilly, but akin to The Byrds, Buffalo Springfield and Tom Petty.
Ten years later, The Boxmasters have six albums under their belt, and according to Andrew, they’ve recorded almost twice as many.
“We had a few years where we were without a label and just kept recording constantly,” Andrew said.
With more than a few songs in the bank they were able to put out three albums over the last two years. The Boxmasters are currently on their first tour of the year, completing two last year.
“We’re all over just trying to beat people over the head with: we are a band that gets out there and works,” Andrew said.
Developing a sound over 10 years can bring about all sorts of different influences.
“We sound more like we really sound now. The first couple of records were really experimental. We decided lets sing like David Allan Coe doing British Invasion combination hillbilly songs. They were almost concept records in a way. These days we kind of sound like we sound more naturally when we play. We don’t go for a specific thing. The songs we write are just what we kind of what we naturally write,” Thornton said.
The chief of police in a town The Boxmasters played once wrote in after a show describing his impression.
“He described us as Mick Taylor-era (Rolling) Stones, mixed with the Blues Brothers, mixed with the Ramones,” Andrew said. “I thought that was pretty great description of what we do, especially live.”
Andrew added they bring “energy” to their live performances.
Though Thornton cautioned: “don’t misunderstand J.D.’s version of energy. We mean musically, we don’t jump around and stuff,” Thornton chuckled.
“Too old to jump,” Andrew said.
The shift to a more rock ‘n’ roll tone came over time for The Boxmasters. In the early days, they would cover songs, with their first two albums containing a bonus disc of covers that influenced the band, changing tempos and instrumentation to make a version that was their own.
“You learn a lot from doing those kinds of things. Different song structures and chords. All that gets thrown in the pot, melds together and becomes your sound,” Andrew said.
The Boxmasters hit No. 1 on Americana Radio with their song Poor House and are currently touring their latest double-album Boys and Girls ... and the World.
“We believe in giving people a proper record experience,” Andrew said, noting their albums are only available in a physical format. Both the band and the record label believe in keeping things out of the digital realm.
The Boxmasters come to the Mule Nightclub on Sept. 11. Tickets are $55 available on ticketmaster.ca | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/entertainment/391353911.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/bd7e248d6d943d0dc56e50f67ab163229bb02d2c5ac4b66687c0b77dba5f4f31.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-27T02:51:53 | null | null | Forest fires tore through northeastern B.C., but then cooler weather took over June into July. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391429961.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/27526BCLN2007FireTangoLookout.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | B.C. wildfire costs top $100M, but still less than in 2015 | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | B.C. has spent $103 million fighting wildfires across the province since the fire season began April 1.
Information officer Claire Allen of the BC Wildfire Service says that is less than half the amount spent in B.C. over the same period last year.
She says $232 million was spent battling 1,772 fires between April and the end of August in 2015, while just 936 blazes have scorched about 990 square kilometres of B.C. woodland this year.
That compares to the nearly 3,000 square kilometres of bush burned across B.C. in 2015.
This year's fire season began early and aggressively with several huge wildfires in northeastern B.C.
But Allen says cooler weather in late June and throughout July dampened the fire danger, and a recent heat wave is also expected to be checked by lower temperatures this weekend.
"That's going to bring showers beginning in the northern portions of B.C. and coming into the southern half by the end of the weekend," she says.
"That's going to bring variable amounts of precipitation, cloudier skies, cooler temperatures, higher levels of humidity and all those things work together to reduce the fire danger rating across the province."
Sixty wildfires are currently burning in B.C., with eight new fires in the last 24 hours, most of those in the Coastal Fire Centre, where the fire danger rating is ranked high to extreme.
(CHNL)
The Canadian Press | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391429961.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/9bac72eeb3e20b062ab5db82bf761f65325b651db7a751d4ae963b89ff77299b.json |
[
"Emanuel Sequeira"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:38 | null | null | Penticton Heat players win silver in U.S. box nationals, while another earns all-star game nod | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391338151.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/66895pentictonS-RhysMacDonald.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Lacrosse players gain from U.S. national experience | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | RHYS MACDONALD was among four members of the Penticton Minor Lacrosse Association to be selected to join the Stealth Lacrosse Academy to play in the U.S. Box Nationals in San Jose, Calif., earlier this month. MacDonald was selected to the all-star team.
It was a memorable experience for members of the Penticton Minor Lacrosse Association at the U.S. Box Nationals.
Connor Ramage and Kale Lawrence suited up for the Stealth Lacrosse Academy midget A team in San Jose, Calif., who went 2-1 in round robin and earned a silver medal, while Rhys MacDonald and Devin Cole suited up for the Stealth’s bantam A side.
Lawrence said it was special to earn a silver medal and “cool to go to the U.S. nationals as a Canadian team and come out with silver.”
“It was crazy,” said Lawrence. “We did feel good with the silver.”
Lawrence, 15, said it was a fun tournament to play in. He liked the atmosphere with parents ready to watch and players energized. Lawrence said the quality of play was pretty good, but not as good as Penticton. Being used to field lacrosse, Lawrence said they barely play box lacrosse.
“Their style of box is playing more like a smaller version of field,” he said. “The ball doesn’t get moved around as quick. They like to slow it down and use up more of the shot clock.”
Lawrence said the adjustment was easy as it allowed them more time to figure out what plays to execute. It also allowed them to know where the ball would go.
MacDonald said he enjoyed facing different teams.
“I felt that I performed very well for the way the team was playing,” said MacDonald, who helped his team win two of four games. “I was even selected to an all-star game, which was pretty cool. That was fun. I feel I played very strong.
“I feel like I gained notoriety. Lots of important people (scouts, pro players and the GM of the Vancouver Stealth) are at that tournament,” said MacDonald, who was chosen with the other three Heat players following a Team B.C. tryout. “When you have strong performances, I feel like your name can get more known by other people. That was the main reason I went. To advance further in my lacrosse.”
Cole earned most valuable player honours for his performance in a 10-2 win over Denver Elite.
The junior Stealth is the northwest’s premier invitation box lacrosse travel program. Athletes are the top players selected from the Stealth Lacrosse Academy and recommended by regional coaches.
The teams are off to Toronto Aug. 26-28 for the NLL Junior Tournament. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391338151.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/cdcf435a2c319da75377a6d5126c0f36a48baeebbbd48dec3d0f828edf816142.json |
[
"Richard Rolke"
] | 2016-08-28T06:52:06 | null | null | The evacuation alert continues for 45 residences in the Sunset Properties area | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391521031.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/73708vernonDSC_63451spf.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Predator Ridge fire mostly contained | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Water bombers soar over Okanagan Lake as they tackle a fire near Predator Ridge Saturday.
Progress is being made on a fire burning near Predator Ridge.
As of 8 p.m. Saturday, the fire is about seven to nine hectares in size and is relatively contained at its perimeter.
"It's showing as a rank one and two ground fire with some flames," said Rachel Witt, a fire information officer with the B.C. Wildfire Service.
"Ground crews are still working on the perimeter."
Air support has been grounded for the evening because of darkness but they have been able to place retardant around much of the fire.
"Ground crew will be fighting the fire through the night and provincial wildfire crews will have more ground crew arriving in the morning," said Tanya Laing Gahr, communications officer with the City of Vernon.
The evacuation alert continues for 45 residences in the Sunset Properties subdivision off of Okanagan Landing road. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391521031.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/b3bda6e85540ec5a296207d2b310c261f2163e64191457e445037ea40b10ef78.json |
[
"John Arendt"
] | 2016-08-26T13:08:35 | null | null | B.C. Day, on Monday, Aug. 1, is an opportunity to celebrate this spectacular province. See how well you know British Columbia. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F388492001.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/60468summerlandimage.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | B.C. DAY TRIVIA QUIZ: How much do you know about British Columbia? | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | B.C. Day, on Monday, Aug. 1, is an opportunity to celebrate this spectacular province. See how well you know British Columbia. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/lifestyles/388492001.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/09d3b14583f585021a7b7194edabe714a87cecb498221306a7cbb450bb2f6e0d.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T18:51:42 | null | null | The people of Penticton should have the right to say what kind of town they want to have. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391772511.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Maybe it is time for a change in Penticton | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Councillors Sayeed and Konanz, and some others from City Hall, you came to the gathering last Friday at Skaha Park and you saw hundreds of people gathered there and heard several speak.
Most of us were there because we object to leasing and changing any of our beloved Skaha Park. The event was typical of several other of the large gatherings and hundreds of protest letters in our newspapers this past year over this matter.
Was it obvious that people are not ready to simply accept that the mayor and council could bypass a very important bylaw which states that “disposition of public park land must seek the approval of the electorate?”
Was it obvious to you that the people of this town are not ready for the kind of change to our park(s) that is envisioned by the Dream Team, or the Master Parks Planners?
Many many dreams, tax dollars, donations, time and effort have gone into making and preserving the park, perfect as it is.
Perhaps some day Penticton people will be ready for the change. I feel sad to think someday this beautiful, refreshing Skaha Park, as we have it now, with beach and green grass and trees, free and accessible for all to enjoy, would then become a place with busy, noisy commercial pay-to-enter activities, more concrete and less greenery, with reduced public access, and with condos or hotel, available only for private users.
Perhaps Penticton is ready for that change now? Then it should be ascertained the fair way, by a referendum. The people of Penticton should have the right to say what kind of town they want to have. We still live in a democracy don’t we?
P.S., and this is not just the sentiment of old people who are going to die soon, many appreciative and enlightened younger people, as well as city planners, realize the value of preserving passive parkland, and democracy.
Hannah Hyland
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391772511.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/edf94e5e6f1560ff0eaa96937919987b683e0a59bc10c35b5209fc89786d7c9e.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:11:05 | null | null | Not once, in all these years have I ever heard the Downtown Penticton Association consult with residents. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391341491.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: No consult with Penticton residents | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | I was reading a Dale Boyd article (Penticton Western News, Aug. 19, Hot and cold on downtown) when out of the mouth of DPA executive director Lynn Allin came this.
Allin said she has plans to improve communication between business owners, building owners, the DPA and the board of directors.
She’s quoted: “It is something the DPA is looking at, to just bring that sort of whole look from the start to the finish of the DPA property area.”
Not once, in all these years of barricades, attitude and forcefulness have I ever heard them consult with residents who live in the area.
Let’s be clear. If the association has, through a city money-bylaw, declared a certain area to be designated as a collection of property owners wishing and willing to borrow a specific amount over time, and make payments to cover improvements to their street fronts that’s one thing. But in no way does this area become DPA’s property.
I commend the story for recognizing that John Vassilaki just opened nine stores. John has over the years invested in and helped build up Penticton’s downtown region, sticking around long enough for their kids and grandkids to see what business is all about. John’s a good citizen and one who listens to the opinions of the residents.
There are thousands of residents, both property owners and renters, living in the downtown nucleus. I’m sure Vasillaki and the other original downtowners are well aware how tolerant the public have been over the years, embracing tourists in summer, putting up with or being part of Ironman, Peach Fest (and parade) and other major events that often affect the norm, and now even Challenge, which is more than a day.
Why on earth is this (can’t even call it Saturday morning anymore) monstrosity, a so-called “market” that will, if this latest developing news is true, be allowed to stretch 1.2 kilometres one-way?
That’s a whole lot of parking spaces the city is allowing this monster of a slug to gobble up. It’s an inconvenience that strips local residents of the right to shop, attend appointments, funerals, and numerous other activities — never once been consulted regarding the total blockage syndrome that appears to be afflicting Penticton’s DPA mindset these days.
They have also taken over all of the intersections and invaded cross-streets, including Wade Avenue, and now likely Eckhardt. All major east-west traffic-movers.
There’s no possible way for the driving public to get to the other side without negotiating a maze of half-streets, deadends, one-ways, you name it. If ever there was an accident waiting to happen, this is it.
Let’s face it. Being liked on Facebook, re-tweeted on Twitter, ‘communicated’ about in our city power bill inserts, and sticky-noted to death at a booth are not real communication, nor real publicity.
They’re all one-sided and imagined.
Cutting off residents and tourists alike, cutting elderly people out, blocking the way of disabled, dismissing non-social businesses for six months of the year — it’s all quite frankly enough to piss anyone off.
We’d rather head to Summerland, Peachland, West Kelowna or the U.S. than fight this mob they call a market.
To the city of Penticton (including Max Picton) what part of zoning do you not understand?
You are turning a blind-eye to the creation of a major danger zone in our city. It’s congestion beyond reason, and unsafe.
In conclusion the DPA began as an association (people who organize for a common purpose). It’s now turned into a greed-like body which feeds on the oozing of its boundaries with an unstoppable force. It’s time to stop. The DPA is not an entity. It’s become an amoeba.
Jean Mitchell
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391341491.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/c8ac62e18e94c68b486034373369502e7ccb6f0306be2dedad33be6a7b819d5b.json |
[
"Emanuel Sequeira"
] | 2016-08-26T20:52:23 | null | null | Karsten Madsen won the Challenge Penticton Cross Triathlon with a significant lead | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391434051.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/13826pentictonCPCrossTriKarstenMadsen.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Madsen pushes pace en route to Cross Triathlon win in Challenge Penticton | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Karsten Madsen executed the 2016 Challenge Penticton Cross Triathlon with next year's International Triathlon Union World Championship in mind.
"I tried to go as hard as I could go. Tried to simulate as much as what next year is going to be," said Madsen at the finish line Friday morning. "I think this course really has a lot of different stuff. You can't be just one style of rider. You have to be fit, you have to be technically strong. You got to keep your wits about you."
Madsen, who won the XTERRA Victoria (triathlon) in July, never trailed in the Cross Triathlon qualifying race. He completed the 1.5-kilometre swim in 20 minutes, 51 seconds and had nearly a four minute lead starting the bike, completing the 27-km course that went into Three Blind Mice in 1:08:30. He finished the 15-km run in 31:53 for a total time of 2:02:49. American Chris Ganter took second in 2:08:02 and Calgary's Calvin Zaryski was third in 2:15:17.
Madsen, the 2015 International Triathlon Union Cross Elite National Champion, said he believes he can go against anyone. Madsen said winning was incredible and that this season has been a dream come true. He's done everything he wanted, placing second in Argentina and Alabama on the Pan Am Tour and winning all his Canadian races in Milto, Ont., Victoria and now Penticton.
"I just want to keep it going," said Madsen, adding it means a lot to him winning all his Canadian races.
Madsen, whose parents competed in Penticton's Ironman Canada in 1998 (Ken) and 2008 (Kathy), had high praise for Three Blind Mice.
"All the trails were pretty nuts. It is kind of neat that you do have a few options. You can choose your line," he said. "It does make for a very interesting day. The trail network you guys have out here is unbelievable. I'm excited to go out tomorrow and explore more."
WINNIPEG'S BLAKE MACKAY weaves through a trail on Three Blind Mice with company close behind. MacKay finished 15th overall and second in the 25 to 29 age group. David Secor/Penticton Western News
Victoria's Katie Button won the women's field, placing 14th overall in 2:28:16. She completed the swim in 24:15, the bike in 1:20:42 and the run in 40:22. Button talked about the need to pace herself as she knew the run would be hard. She also had to contend with Zoe Dawson of Squamish, who she has battled before. Dawson took second in 2:31:46.
"She's such a strong runner. I always know I'm going to be battling it out with her," said Button.
Button talked about the run being "super motivating."
"You can kind of see where everybody is. It's good motivation to keep the legs turning over," said Button, whose run was 33 seconds slower than Dawson at 1:20:42 compared to 1:20:09.
Button, who won her first race this year in her hometown in EXTERRA Victoria, was excited about her win, but also for next year.
Katie Button
"I'm super pumped. I just tried to have a really smooth race. It worked out," she said. "I'm going to be excited to have some confidence going into next year."
Button also is a big fan of Three Blind Mice, as she likes technical course that are challenging. She said it offers something for every rider.
"There is a climb at the beginning, there is flat pass section and then a couple of technical sections, it's a great course," said Button, who was put to the test on the hills. "The run was hardest part. Going out on the KVR. It looks like a long way. It's just flat. Keep your head down and keep your legs turning over."
Taking third on the women's side was North Vancouver's Katherine Carter. She finished in 2:38:32.
North Vancouver's Katherine Carter finished third among women in Challenge Penticton's Cross Triathlon event on Friday morning. David Secor/Penticton Western News
The cross triathlon had 136 participants. Forty-nine were women, 87 men. Only four athletes did not finish. Penticton had nine athletes entered, though one did not do the event. The top local was Kirk Vandeweghe, who finished in 2:30:21, while the top female was Sarah McMillan in 2:53:11. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391434051.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/fcb8e0731a03a00bf183ea9b00820e0d01bf180d9bda1f3b88bab72e890fe225.json |
[
"Mark Brett"
] | 2016-08-26T22:49:23 | null | null | Jas Garib hosting annual mid-day meal in the parking lot of a Penticton business. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391350051.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/71554penticton0826freelunch.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton woman giving back with a hardy meal | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Marlene Laurie makes a sandwich at the Fairview Grocery store with Jas Garib watching on. Garib is once again planning her annual free lunch on Aug. 31 at the store parking lot as a way of giving back to the less fortunate in the community.
Who says there no such thing as a free lunch?
Jas Garib will once again this year do her part to dispel that myth when she hosts her annual mid-day meal in the parking lot of Fairview Grocery on Aug. 31.
“I’m East Indian so we believe in the seva, (selfless giving to humanity) and it’s like you give back to the community and this is the same type of thing,” said Garib, who began the tradition on her daughter Krystal’s birthday after she moved away from home. “It’s to help people who perhaps are on the street. I also have a very special place in my heart for people who have a mental illness and there’s a whole lot of things happening and I see them wandering on the street so I want to help them.”
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the store, those who stop buy can get a meat or vegetarian sandwich and a piece of cake at no charge.
“I have a neighbour right now whose son is on the street and there’s days when he’s hungry and thirsty so I hear stories like that all the time and this year I thought, well, I’ll put this out to the community,” said Garib. “I do this every year and food gets wasted because I usually make enough for 200 people and maybe only 40 or 50 turn out.
“I want people to come eat and enjoy and celebrate my daughter’s birthday with me, it’s all about giving back to the community because I know there are a lot of people on the streets who could use a hardy meal.”
She eventually hopes to make the free lunch a weekly gift to those in need.
Fairview Grocery is located at 1196 Fairview Rd. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/community/391350051.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/632a3d2b7cfbc479af2052ad41af96cc30cb4daa312c60b68d0e1d043cb7a32a.json |
[
"Steve Kidd"
] | 2016-08-27T02:51:52 | null | null | They're big, sleek and fast, and they are going to improve safety on both our lakes for visitors and residents alike. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391467641.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/29295penticton0826-watercraft-04.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Marine rescue gets a big jump in Penticton | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Firefighters Steve Garret and Chad Taylor manoeuvre the new watercraft back to the dock and a waiting Fire Chief Larry Watkinson after putting the new rescue units through their paces.
They're big, sleek and fast, and they are going to improve safety on both our lakes for visitors and residents alike.
On Friday, the Penticton Fire Department unveiled the latest addition to their life-saving gear, a pair of personal watercraft to be permanently stationed on Skaha Lake.
Deputy Fire Chief Dave Spalding said the new water rescue units should cut down on the department's response time to incidents on the lake by about seven minutes on each call. Instead of having to trailer a boat to the lake, back it down the ramp, unload it, get it started, run back and park the truck, board and clear the marina, responders will simply be able to unlock the new units and head out.
Seven minutes might not seem like a long-time, but for someone in distress on the water, it could literally be a lifetime.
Fire Chief Larry Watkinson said they expect the new three-seater watercraft to be crewed by two firefighters each, leaving room to pull someone aboard, or onto the six-foot platform that attaches to the back of the unit, giving them room to administer aid.
“I think it is a great enhancement. The sooner they get on the water and deal with the situation the better,” said Penticton Mayor Andrew Jakubeit, who also praised Watkinson for finding room within the fire department's existing budget to purchase the watercraft.
“I think its impressive. This is a great example of looking within his budget to find some efficiencies or make things happen,” said Jakubeit.
The watercraft are fast, with 1800cc engines driving them up to 55 miles per hour but these models were chosen for stability and manoeuvrability.
“The hull is the biggest we could get for more stability. If you have to pull somebody out of the water that needs rescuing, you don't want to be flipping the thing over and ending up in the water yourself,” said Spalding.
The watercraft also have a braking system for quick stops and capable of fine side-to-side manoeuvring.
“You want to be able to stop and manoeuvre while you are managing that victim, whether they are conscious or unconscious,” said Spalding.
Firefighters testing out the units Friday also took them for a cruise up the Okanagan River Channel to test the watercraft's low-wake mode. Spalding said they caused very little disturbance to people enjoying their Friday afternoon float down the channel.
“With our big boat, it's just not doable,” said Spalding. “There is so much wake you end up flipping people off their rafts and stuff, even if you try to go slow. It is just too much.”
With the new watercraft stationed on Skaha Lake, the fire department is now able to station its existing, bigger rescue boat on Okanagan Lake. Watkinson said that is the best place for it, since the bigger boat is better able to handle the chop on the big lake.
“We are really happy that we can have rescue capabilities on both lakes, without having to trailer them,” said Spalding.
Read more: Drowning highlights need for safety on Penticton lakes
Two drownings on Skaha Lake earlier this year got the department looking at ways to improve the response time, according to Watkinson. He also got some ideas from Hawaiian firefighters.
“I have some relatives in Hawaii, and I got to know some of the Hawaii firefighters that do all the water rescue,” said Watkinson. “They showed me their marine rescue units. With the channel and all of the people that are in the channel all the time in the summer, it is an easy way to access without wake and get to people in a rapid fashion.
“They are just an absolute, excellent addition to our marine rescue program.” | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391467641.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/946f5f2123acd623b3f376140f0b8755834f8b84b0bd4ce8ac501f339f4d9ca1.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:34 | null | 2014-02-04T00:00:00 | Guns intercepted at Pacific region border crossings up 116 per cent compared to this time last year | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391214101.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/12413BCLN2007Gunsabb-HuntingtonCBSA2014-2.4.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | U.S. border gun seizures double | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Guns seized from visitors entering Canada at the Huntington-Abbotsford border crossing, 2014.
Canadian Border Services Agency has seen a 116 per cent increase in the number of firearms seized in the Pacific Region in the first half of 2016.
With a 10 per cent increase also recorded in the Prairie region, the CBSA is working with U.S. officials on a firearms awareness campaign to remind Americans about restrictions on bringing guns into Canada.
"Attempting to smuggle firearms across the border can result in immediate forfeiture, hefty fines and even significant jail time," said Kim Scoville, CBSA's regional director general for the Prairie region.
Visitors entering the border inspection line should declare any firearms at their first opportunity. Border services officers will take possession of the weapon if it is declared, but the visitor has the option of shipping it back under CBSA supervision or surrendering it without prosecution.
The RCMP has procedures for visitors bringing firearms into Canada | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391214101.html | en | 2014-02-04T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/a2fad2f44b33faba963da3998eec4f257e7f5ce95e8990512b9e08a0d83ab232.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T16:51:47 | null | null | The city is inviting the public to Skaha Marina at 3 p.m. on Aug. 26, as new marine rescue units are brought into service. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391418831.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/7386pentictonfire-badge.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton Fire improving response time to marine rescues | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Starting today, Penticton's Fire Department is going to have a much stronger presence on the city's two lakes.
The city is inviting the public to Skaha Marina at 3 p.m. on Aug. 26, as new marine rescue units are brought into service.
The two $20,000 personal watercraft will be moored at Skaha Marina, shortening the fire department's response time to emergency rescue calls on the lake. Prior to this move, the department's inflatable rescue boat had to be transported to the lake and launched. That boat remains in service, but will now be housed at Okanagan Lake instead of the fire hall.
Earlier this summer, Fire Chief Larry Watkinson told the Western News that the speed of the new units, and their rescue boards should also help them respond quicker to people in distress on the water.
“It will certainly bring the rescue potential for Skaha up dramatically. It will be a whole different sense of security on that lake," said Watkinson in July. The watercraft are expected to be active for the busy Challenge Penticton weekend. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391418831.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/426c177b46983c3c91bf84f97847e76059bf6cfd10e15a0ee455e8f457b10a9b.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:05:29 | null | null | Designer of Kicking Horse and Jumbo resorts gets approval to proceed with $175 million project east of Prince George | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F390477731.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/66407BCLN2007Oberti-Oberto7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | B.C. approves Valemount glacier resort plan | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | The B.C. government has approved a master development plan for a new year-round ski resort in the Cariboo Mountains west of Valemount.
Valemount Glacier Destination Resort is a $175 million project led by Oberto Oberti, who designed the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort near Golden and the controversial Jumbo Glacier Resort proposal west of Invermere.
The Valemount plan includes lifts and gondolas that would carry skiers and sight-seers to the summits of Mount Pierre Elliott Trudeau and Mount Arthur Meighen. Its vertical drop of 2,050 metres would be higher than Whistler-Blackcomb and the largest in North America.
"There are very few places in the world, and none in North America, where you go and ride a lift to the very top and the glacier is below you," said Jill Bodkin, a director of the company.
Valemount is a remote community of about 1,000 residents near the Alberta border east of Prince George. The region is west of Jasper National Park, which attracts visitors from around the world.
On the project's website, Oberti says people will travel to Switzerland for this kind of mountain resort experience, so a three-hour drive from Prince George isn't an obstacle to success.
Valemount Mayor Jeanette Townsend called the master plan approval "exciting news." She said the community attracts visitors who stay there to avoid the expensive accommodation in Jasper and the resort will take it to the next level.
Chief Nathan Matthew of the Simpcw First Nation said his community has been involved since the beginning, and he sees the project as an important economic development for the northern part of Simpcw's traditional territory. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/business/390477731.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/dd9caa0b84192f47d766fb39ad848996f92865c7b5cec3444928916f392e730e.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:09:33 | null | null | Learn to Fish program offers instruction and loaner equipment to help children aged 5 to 15 catch a trout | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F381548981.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/69540BCLN2007Rainbowpembertonfishfinder7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Free fishing lessons for kids [with video] | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Courses offer loaner equipment and training in casting and proper fish handling.
Children aged five to 15 can take advantage of fishing instruction sessions being held around the province by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. this summer.
The Learn to Fish program has been running since 2006. It provides loaned fishing gear as well as instruction on how to cast and retrieve, identify different fish species, handle fish properly and fish ethically within the regulations.
Locations and registration information for Learn to Fish courses is available here.
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. is financed by revenue from B.C. fishing licence sales.
A sample of the instruction videos available on the society website: | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/lifestyles/381548981.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/eeedcedcd3053eadd825173a9deb4db4260e49247536d58968edd2dce9764b40.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:14:00 | null | null | Penticton sits second in the Capri Insurance Okanagan Oldtimers Soccer League | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391337021.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton second in oldtimers soccer | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Penticton trails Brown Benefits by seven points for first in the Capri Insurance Okanagan Oldtimers Soccer League. Penticton has 15 wins in 19 games. In their last game, Penticton won 1-0. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391337021.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/df8ae594e17a297efaf3bed4b71996ef46ca6a53d764cac4a860923a4f44666e.json |
[
"Mark Brett"
] | 2016-08-26T13:00:35 | null | null | Competition in this year’s second annual, new and much-improved Great Ogopogo Bathtub Race is expected to be fast and furious. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F390635081.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/27193penticton0819bathtub.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | South Okanagan tub racers ready to make a splash | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Jim Cavin of the Summerland Yacht Club is expecting a big turnout for Saturday's second annual Great Ogopogo Bathtub Race at Powell Beach park in Trout Creek. Gates open at 11:30 p.m.
Tubbers, start your engines.
Competition in this year’s second annual, new and much-improved Great Ogopogo Bathtub Race is expected to be fast, furious and a whole lot of fun.
With the new venue at Powell Beach in Trout Creek and revised route for tubbers providing better race viewing for spectators, organizers are predicting a great time will be had by all.
“We’re just working on a few last minute things to make sure everything is going to be where it should be at the right time,” said Jim Cavin, of the Summerland Yacht Club which took on the task of staging the event last year. “We’ll have about 20 tubs in the two different races, it’s certainly enough to provide plenty for people to see. I think it’s going to be a lot more exciting for people because the boats will pass in front of the beach at least three times.”
Things kick off with the entrants and volunteer breakfast at the park from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. (ticket required) followed by the general opening at 11:30 a.m.
Fun on the water begins at noon with what’s being billed at the Putt-Putt or Paddle Fundrace for watercraft either with or without motors. Those using engines will have to do two circuits of the mile-long course.
The winner may not necessarily be the fastest. Judging will also include the most inventive and the biggest fundraiser.
Again this year money raised will go to the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation to help equip the Penticton Regional Hospital tower project currently under construction. Last year $15,000 was raised and an unidentified patron has stepped up to match the amount raised Saturday up to $15,000.
This is the second of a five-year commitment to the medical foundation by the yacht club.
The real competition gets underway at 12:15 when the A and B divisions take to the water for the 24-mile course from Powell Beach to Naramata north to Summerland and returning to the start line. Racers will do the route three times.
An added treat this year is the exhibition Nanaimo tubbers race who will compete on the same course with much faster tubs.
“These things are hopped up and souped up and super modified, they’ll be going 40 miles an hour. I wouldn’t be going that fast in a boat that weighs nothing,” said Cavin with a laugh.
That event is scheduled for 2 p.m.
The parents and kids bathtub paddle race starts at 2:15 p.m.
There will be plenty of on-shore activities for families during the day including the Ogopogo sand sculpting contest, floating target archery, fish pond, bouncy castles and face painting.
As well, there will be a beach-side beverage gardens, barbecue smokies and live music by Michael O’Grady.
Results will be announced at 3:30 p.m. with the ReMax awards dinner and dance (tickets required) taking place at the yacht club starting at 5:45 p.m.
More information can be found at ogopogobathtubrace.com or on Facebook. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/community/390635081.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/0a360f3b1f8ef12ec5d5c2f99f3bc2c5ffda83f5ce7047c73c0b06742abd8f77.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T18:53:02 | null | null | Lake City Basketball has 40 openings for middle and high school students in September | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391760341.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/96697pentictonLakeCityClubweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Lake City Basketball dishing up fall sessions for students | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Lake City Basketball is offering fall sessions for middle and high school students.
Lake City Basketball Club is offering middle and high school fall sessions starting Sept. 25.
Chris Terris, co-director of Lake City Basketball, said the high school level sessions will be very competitive and designed to get players ready for their school seasons. At the younger levels, there will be more emphasis on developing skills and introducing players to offensive and defensive team structures.
"We hope to attract new players to the game at this level with the hope that they develop a love of playing basketball," said Terris.
The sessions are as follows: middle school girls (grades 6-8) 9-11 a.m.; middle school boys (grades 6-8) 11-1 p.m.; high school girls (grades 9-12) 1-3 p.m.; high school boys (grades 9-12) 3-5 p.m. Each session will include an hour of skill development and one 32-minute game (players will be divided into teams after the first session). Players require a reversible shirt to participate. Please note on the website that there are two different price points: one for those who already have a reversible ($75) and one for those who require a reversible ($115).
Registration is now open for the six-week Fall Training Sessions. Visit http://lakecitybasketball.weebly.com/ to ensure your spot (each session will be limited to 40 participants). The website also has information for the program for students in grades two to five. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391760341.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/d9e9d353c1a7158dad526dc41ffdacb0568e6fae5fa5fc9ada5dfcebdc1fd85e.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:07:57 | null | null | Asian demand for B.C. wood products peaked in 2013, analyst says China sales on pace for 50 per cent drop | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F391328001.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/63096BCLN2007thomsonchinaosb7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Lumber exports shift to U.S. as China sales slump | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Wood products exports from Canada to Asia were down 18 per cent in the first six months of 2016, with the biggest decline being softwood lumber from B.C. to China, according to the Seattle-based Wood Resources International.
Lumber sales to China are on pace to drop by 50 per cent this year compared to 2014, as B.C. lumber producers direct their sales to a healthy U.S. lumber market, according to customs data tracked for the Wood Resources Quarterly (www.woodprices.com).
The latest edition notes that by value, 75 per cent of B.C.'s exports to Asia in 2015 and 2016 are in the form of lumber, while 77 per cent of exports from Washington and Oregon are logs.
Asian demand reached a record high in 2013, with China passing Japan as the largest importer of North American wood products in 2011. The B.C. and federal governments promote wood construction in China and Japan, and B.C.'s forest minister is required to conduct an annual trade mission to China, Japan and other Asian countries.
The shift in demand provides extra urgency for talks to renew the Canada-U.S. softwood lumber agreement that expired last year. B.C. sales are booming without the export cap that both Ottawa and Washington have agreed will be required. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/business/391328001.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/eae9cf24b4c63be82197308ce7a22866e9109995ba9a7edaae58aeddac1a6e70.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-29T14:52:17 | null | null | After months of planning and preparation, the City of Penticton is rolling out its new trash cart program. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391605111.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/30299penticton1207-garbage-cart-02.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | City of Penticton ready to roll | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | After months of planning and preparation, the City of Penticton is rolling out its new trash cart program.
New garbage, recycling and yard waste carts will be ready to roll on Sept. 1, with a goal of completing delivery by mid-September.
All of the carts won't be delivered to each home at once. Delivery will start with the garbage carts, then recycle, then yard waste. Delivery of the full cart package to your home will occur throughout the month of September.
Once you have a cart, though, you can put it to use. Even if you haven't received all your carts by collection day, go ahead and use the ones you have, and put everything else – like a blue bag or bin for recycling – out as usual.
A brochure will accompany the garbage cart, with general information about the cart program and space to record the serial numbers on your cart, in case of lost, damaged or stolen carts. There will also be information on what to do with your old garbage cans.
Any recent changes to your cart requests will be made in late September or early October. For more information, call 250-490-2500, or email publicworks@penticton.ca | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391605111.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/f3ab009f8398b9f2e9413e6ef61cd36a002b643516ab108d1d18a499be1ac00d.json |
[
"Dale Boyd"
] | 2016-08-26T12:54:39 | null | null | Tatsuya Nakatani is bringing his unique, improvised acoustic percussion performance to Penticton. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F389936021.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/94983penticton0810-TatsuyaNakatani2008-MakotoTakeuchiPhoto--.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Japanese percussionist bring unique show to Artist Block | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Tatsuya Nakatani is seemingly always on the road.
Not only is his acoustic percussion show completely improvised, making each set a unique experience, but he applies the same explorative techniques to his career, as he embarks on a journey to Alaska, with a stop in Penticton at the 557 Artist Block along the way.
The 46-year-old creative artist and percussionist originally from Osaka, Japan came to the U.S. 22 years ago. He has released over 60 recordings in North America and Europe and has played at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. as well as the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts, among many more.
He lived and worked, learning English as a second language, day by day when he came to America.
“It’s definitely hard,” Nakatani said, admitting that he is still learning the ins and outs of the language.
When the Western News caught up with Nakatani, he was on his way from Minneapolis to play a show in Montana, driving 1,000 miles with his unique gear in tow.
He is often travelling, almost constantly since the ‘90s he said, with this latest trip headed for Alaska bringing in new adventures and challenges.
“I’ve never driven there. I’m very much looking forward to coming to new places and having new experiences,” Nakatani said.
He started playing drums in his high school band which evolved into an exploration of different genres and different styles including jazz and contemporary music. In the ‘90s he became more interested in fleshing out sounds and performing his own brand of music. Gradually developing his own method of performing, viewing music and sound from unorthodox angles, he now constructs long-form, improvised music which he said tells a story. The show is 100 per cent acoustic bringing out different elements of percussion.
“It’s called percussion, but people imagine percussion instruments like Latin percussion, bongos, symbols, but I do it a different way. I use a conventional drum kit, kind of, but I’m very selective of each item,” Nakatani said. “There are so many different sticks and metallic objects and I make different sounds.”
He experiments with all sounds, using an entire range of unconventional ways to make music whether that be through traditional or created instruments.
“You can do so many things with sound,” Nakatani said.
He has a bit of a reputation as a bowed gong player, hand-made bows like one would see a cello player use.
“The gong, people kind of only think of ‘bwang’ getting hit by a mallet, it’s a funny sound and everybody loves it, but I (use a bow) on them. I make handmade bows,” Nakatani said.
Nakatani is able to make harmonies with the longer and gentler sounds created by the gongs, large, hand-hammered Chinese gongs, making different notes and textures, with a notably different way of creating sound.
“I can sing into the gong, instead of just hitting it,” Nakatani said.
Nakatani also employs Japanese Buddhist bows, specially carved sticks and once and awhile he uses kitchen utensils.
“All of these instruments are carefully tuned and matched in sound depth, to balance my family of percussion instruments,” Nakatani said.
Each show is completely unique, improvising on stage every time he performs. While in his younger days he would explore creating new sounds, but now he is very much in control of the improvised work he creates.
“Sometimes a surprising new sound will come out, but I know exactly what I’m playing,” Nakatani said.
He does this by harnessing control of “Ma,” the Japanese word for space, distance or silence.
“I have found that Ma complements sound itself,” Nakatani said.
Asked why he gravitated to the improvised method, Nakatani wasn’t really sure.
“I have no choice actually, it chose me,” Nakatani laughed. “I’ve been playing for 30 years in music. I’m on this path and just doing things, improvised was the choice because I’m good at it I think.”
Tatsuya Nakatani comes to the 557 Artist Block on Aug. 16 with local openers the Wedman Zappa duo. Doors open at 8p.m. and tickets are $10.
Tickets are available online at www.pentictonartscouncil.com. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/entertainment/389936021.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/54ef1e620d3ca957d870e230c76fe8ab940b610ba7cb7f7d43abf36b0b5c7680.json |
[
"Steve Kidd"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:17 | null | null | The City of Penticton is joining forces with nearby governance organizations to find potential shared services. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391350221.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | City of Penticton looks to create efficiencies | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | The City of Penticton is joining forces with nearby governance organizations seeking areas where they can create efficiencies with shared services.
Last week, Penticton, Summerland, the Regional District Okanagan Similkameen and the Okanagan Skaha School District issued a joint request for proposals, seeking a consultant to research areas where shared services would result in efficiencies for all.
“The same taxpayer is paying for someone to mow the lawn and what difference does it make if they work for the city or they work for the school board?” said Penticton Mayor Andrew Jakubeit, noting that a single entity could be responsible for cutting all the lawns in the city, or even the district.
“It seems so simple, but we always get bogged down on turf wars, no pun intended,” said Jakubeit noting that concerns range from job losses to administrative difficulties. “They use that as an excuse or barrier to not take it past just a conversation.”
A third-party consultant, Jakubeit explained, should be able to look at the situation with an unbiased eye and find opportunities for shared savings.
“It might be with our phone system, everyone uses the same phone system, or GIS mapping or computer software. We all have our own computer networks; maybe one of the entities has all the servers,” said Jakubeit, noting that with modern information technology, there is no need for servers to be in the same building as the user.
“Instead of spending 300,000 every couple of years on server backbone, we all share in that.”
The RFP specifies the focus should be on how local authorities can improve service delivery within existing operations and should not consider outsourcing. The consultant will look at both internal services like human resources, information technology and procurement, as well as external; bylaw, permitting, public works and maintenance.
“I don’t think any of these shared services really result in significant changes to staff, they are more efficiencies for capital and to some degree, operational (budgets),” said Jakubeit. “That is really where some of these big ticket costs are and big savings are.”
Between Oct. 7 and the end of the year, the consultant is expected to come up with recommendations on how the authorities could work together to achieve lower costs and higher levels of service, along with identifying two areas suitable for a pilot project, expected to take place from January 2017 to September.
“They will look at some baby steps where you can test this model or theory. It is not happening overnight where you are all of a sudden going to have this massive switchover,” said Jakubeit. “Within a 15-minute drive, you have the city, you have the regional district, the school board, and we have Summerland.
“Surely there has to be some savings, because there are overlaps in all those.” | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391350221.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/a2df07032a02ca12ab0457c5415e2a2341287900b24a0fafcebefe50bb715faf.json |
[
"Richard Cannings"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:23 | null | null | Richard Cannings is the MP for the South Okanagan-West Kootenay riding. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2F390945841.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/98213pentictoncannings-richardweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Cannings: Cycling through the South Okanagan-West Kootenay riding | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Richard Cannings is the MP for the South Okanagan West Kootenay riding.
As summer winds down, our thoughts naturally turn to back-to-school shopping and back-to-work after a break for a good Canadian summer.
I’ll be going back to Ottawa in September to resume work on all the issues before Parliament; one of the major issues we will be discussing is electoral reform. In last year’s campaign, both the NDP and Liberals promised that the 2015 election would be the last one carried out using the old first-past-the post system.
In response to an NDP motion passed by Parliament in June, a Special Committee to study Electoral Reform was created. That committee has been sitting through out the summer and will continue working through the fall, hearing testimony from experts and getting input from citizens across the country.
I’d like to hear from people throughout South Okanagan-West Kootenay on this important issue, so I’m hosting town hall meetings in September in Castlegar (September 1st, 7 pm at the Fireside Inn Hotel & Conference Centre) and Penticton (September 12th, 7 pm at the Public Library auditorium). If you can’t make it to either of the meetings, I invite you to share your thoughts with me via email atRichard.Cannings@parl.gc.ca.
* *
Members of Parliament, so the standard wisdom goes, spend the summer “on the barbecue circuit”, meeting constituents and flipping burgers.
I have been to quite a few community events over the past two months, but I thought it would be fun to put a new twist on this concept. My riding, South Okanagan-West Kootenay, contains over 40 communities, and it would be difficult to organize events in each one. But it is a beautiful riding, and I love traveling through it, so I thought — why not cycle through the region? That way I could go from one town to another, meeting people over breakfast, coffee, lunch and dinner, and showcase the scenic trails and highways that link our communities.
So the “Ride the Riding” event was born. I decided a combination of highway and trails would be ideal and invite any interested cyclists to join me on some of the trail sections. I’ll be starting in Nakusp on Wednesday, Aug. 24, going over the pass and finishing in Slocan that afternoon. Then it’s down the rail trail to South Slocan and on to Castlegar on Aug. 25, through Fruitvale, Trail and Rossland to Christina Lake on Aug. 26, and a short cycle down the rail trail to Grand Forks on Aug. 27, in time for the Fall Fair there.
On Aug. 28 I’ll be going to Midway, then cycling the KVR rail trail to Rock Creek and on to Osoyoos on Aug. 29. The trip will finish with a cycle up the river dyke trails of the south Okanagan to Penticton on Aug. 30. You can see a full itinerary of where to meet for coffee, meals or cycling on my website richardcannings.ndp.ca, or find me on Facebook at richardjcannings.
Richard Cannings is the MP for the South Okanagan-West Kootenay riding. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/390945841.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/f55ee216e39fa1d61362607fa344080570b00d07004c8a042cf04262bee962ba.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T16:51:43 | null | null | Penticton pays its way forward and the surrounding areas benefit, at the expense of Penticton residents. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391750231.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Annexation | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | According to a recent letter, the residents of West Bench, Sage Mesa, Westwood, Red Wing and Husula Highlands of approximately 1,000 homes contribute to the City of Penticton approximately $300,000 for fire protection, $60,000 for library and $20,000 for the community centre every year. That’s because it’s a bargain and what about the other areas like Naramata, Kaleden, Skaha Hills, the Penticton Indian Band and so on? The letter has the right idea but failed to mention the $20,000 contribution for the recreation centre that hasn’t changed in 20 years.
It doesn’t take a mathematical genius to know that prices have risen. Penticton pays its way forward and the surrounding areas benefit, at the expense of Penticton residents. Fringe area residents come into the city to work, shop and recreate but do not pay taxes to the city, don’t fully fund the recreation centre, use the SOEC that Penticton residents are paying for, think it’s great Penticton residents subsidize new airline flights and so on.
In the last year I probably drove up Westbench once or twice. I’ll best those residents have driven through Penticton streets hundreds of times. They may even operate a business out of their own home and not pay any business license fees to Penticton where they might get most of their business.
The litmus test is who sends their tax payment to City Hall.
While businesses may benefit from attracting employees and shoppers over a larger area, it is the taxpayers to Penticton’s municipal government that are paying the way. The benefits to fringe area residents stands up to the simplest of tests. Why don’t fringe area residents want to amalgamate? It’s because they are better off and don’t have the responsibility for funding roads, water, sewer or social services. Even more, fringe area residents don’t want to buck up for city council’s most recent initiatives for economic development.
In some ways I support these residents given recent council actions such as giving away casino revenues, providing land for questionable ventures on public parks and they probably laugh at the idea of paying for an engagement officer.
Annexations of adjoining areas virtually always experience opposition. They would experience a minor increase in taxes and there would be a gain to the city in which they would be annexed.
Another interesting fact mentioned is that with 1,000 homes in the West Bench area and conservatively estimating about $20,000 of disposable income from each home. It should be a small price to pay to be amalgamated. The letter writer said it would equate to an economic benefit of about $20 million per year for goods and services purchased by our area in the City of Penticton.
Guess what, it’s already there so why wouldn’t they ask to be annexed?
Wayne Llewellyn
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391750231.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/6c4ebb6bf568764bdb9bbbd924735f4121a6bd667c7a4a2cb574b1cca0e6150d.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:43 | null | null | Male winner overcomes bike obstacles to win, female picks up first ever win in Challenge Penticton Duathlon | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391196561.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/7903penticton0826Dualathonfemalewinner.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | VIDEO: Challenge Penticton Duathlon qualifies 130 athletes for ITU World Championship | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | The 40-kilometre bike ride was the difference for Challenge Penticton Duathlon winner Evan Bayer of Calgary.
After overcoming a tough start on the bike, Bayer ripped through the course in 55 minutes, 41 seconds.
"I dropped my chain (on the bike) twice and I was kind of rattled (just as he tried to get on at the start) but I just had to go ‘settling, settling’ because there was lots of race left," said Bayer. "That was the toughest part because you just kind of get panicked when the chain comes off."
After finishing the first 10-km run in 34:25, Bayer ran the final five-km in 17:41 for a total time of 1:49:36.
"I’ve been working on my run a lot this summer. I thought I could give the leaders a minute and still be fine," said Bayer. "I was pretty happy with my run and at the end I just tried to keep it steady."
Evan Bayer, left, of Calgary, Alta. passes Jesse Bauer of Edmonton, Alta. on the first run portion of the Challenge Penticton duathlon en route to a first place finish in the Wednesday event.
Bayer, who plans to return for the world championships next year, said the last hill was a wall when he looked up.
Finishing in second, and winning the M25-29 age group, was Victoria's Shawn Wilyman, who crossed the line in 1:51:08. Wilyman completed the 10-k run in 34:11, the bike in 57:56 and finished the final run in 17:32. Alexandre Lavigne of Quebec City, Que., M20-24, was third and won his age group in 1:51:36. He completed the run first in 33:32, then finished the bike in 59:26 and had the fast time in the final run in 17:11.
North Vancouver's Kim McMullen is the female champion completing the race in 2:12:47. It's her first ever victory.
"Oh my gosh I’m so excited I don’t think I’ve ever run a race full out before," said McMullen, who completed the first run in 42:08, the bike in 1:07:47 and the final run in 20:48. "I always place well and I think I placed third in a triathlon last summer in Squamish. I’ve finished first in my age group but not first overall that I can remember."
McMullen credited her success to going as hard as she could.
"I’ve competed in the triathlon, but my swim is weak, but my bike and my run are solid so this was fun not having to dive into the cold water," she said.
McMullen, a physiotherapist, got into triathlons in 2002 and was serious with it, but also started doing duathlons.
"I enjoy being first, I enjoy the competitive aspect of it and then the cameraderie of the all the athletes," said McMullen, who plans on doing a masters triathlon in Vancouver at the end of next week. "It’s a nice community to be part of and it makes you have a healthier lifestyle."
Kim McMullen of North Vancouver raises her arms in victory as the first female to cross the finish line of the Challenge Pencton duathlon Wednesday morning.Mark Brett/Penticton Western News
Placing second was Hillia Van't klooster of Olds, Alta., in 2:14:39. She did the first run in 44:22, the bike in 1:04:22 and the final run in 23:04. In third was Vancouver's Jen Moroz in 2:14:41. She completed the first run in 37:55, the bike in 1:14:23 and the final run in 19:40.
Sister Madonna Buder of Spokane, Wash., 86, placed 108th overall completing the course in 3:51:40.
The duathlon attracted 150 participants. There are 10 qualification spots per age group for the 2017 Duathlon World Championships. It is predicted almost 130 athletes qualified for ITU Multisport World Championships Festival in Penticton next August.
The Aquathlon, a one-km swim and five-km run, starts at 4 p.m. on Okanagan Lake at Lake Shore Drive on Thursday, Aug. 25, while the Cross Triathlon is Aug. 26 at 7 a.m. also starting at Okanagan Lake. That race features a 1.5-km swim, 27-km bike and 10-km run. Find coverage on both those events at pentictonwesternnews.com. There are no races on Saturday. On Sunday, the Long Course distance race begins at 6:30 a.m., while the Aqua Bike starts at 6:45 a.m. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391196561.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/fc28c84f83c3eefc725edbd884b0a44fa4fb3c334198c70030a33a9e2dc105df.json |
[
"Staff Writer"
] | 2016-08-26T13:01:30 | null | null | Photographers from across the province competed in amateur competition | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391187111.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/2985abbotsfordAmateurphotographjers.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Voting open for People's Choice Amateur Photography Competition | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Cameras were the focus as 70 photographers from across B.C., including Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Kelowna and Nelson, competed in the fourth annual Next Generation BC Amateur Photographer of the Year Contest at the recent Abbotsford International Airshow.
Sponsored by London Drugs and Black Press Media, the contest took place Aug. 12-14, as participants captured their best air, crowd, static, and wildcard shots.
Photographers experienced close-up action at the airshow including Friday's twilight show, and earned the "hot-side" tour at the airshow where they shot exclusive aircraft including the F-35, CF-18, FA-18, Breitling Jet Team, the Snowbirds and more for a chance to win the title of B.C.'s next Amateur Photographer title.
Awarding categories also include The Best in-air photograph ($750 grand prize), The Best ground/static scene photograph ($500 prize),The Best crowd scene photograph ($250 prize ), The Best video submission ($500 prize) all courtesy of London Drugs and honorary acknowledgement for Best Wildcard entry.
For the People's Choice Award Winner, the time has arrived for the public to vote on their favourite photo and be entered for a chance to win BC Lions game tickets.
For voting and contest information, click here. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/community/391187111.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/c9c971d5609a787e18cac481c7f14a07dd1f51626669ff19996b99b48ba1bf9c.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:08:11 | null | null | Funds raised at the Rockin’ the Beach concert held on June 10 with Barefoot Beach Resort and the Skaha Beach Club. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F384189471.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/66123penticton0624Barefoot.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton businesses rockin' for Fort McMurray residents | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Don Degagne (left) from Okanagan Experiential Tourism hands over $1,518 to Red Cross representatives Lynne Napper and Dara Murphy with Barefoot Beach general manager Kerri-Lynn Grell (second from the right) and Skaha Beach Club restaurant owner Darren Bishop (far right).
Don Degagne (left) from Okanagan Experiential Tourism hands over $1,518 to Red Cross representatives Lynne Napper and Dara Murphy with Barefoot Beach general manager Kerri-Lynn Grell (second from the right) and Skaha Beach Club restaurant owner Darren Bishop (far right).
The funds were raised at the Rockin’ the Beach concert held on June 10 with Barefoot Beach Resort and the Skaha Beach Club providing the stage/venue for free and proceeds of sales. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/business/384189471.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/1b5866c4acd641db7bc1dd39e1593af948b5e6b98ad8b1f9e0acffd644929f58.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:10:18 | null | null | CIty of Penticton seem to have thrown transparency out of the window. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391340851.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: No transparency | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | City of Penticton council has done it again.
They seem to have thrown transparency out of the window. Surprise! Surprise! Who knew?
The key word here is “engagement” I believe or is it lack thereof when it comes to informing the electorate.
It seems that at a recent meeting council saw fit make room for this (staff/contract) position. The closing date was listed as Aug. 22. The date of this letter writing is Aug. 21. Yet council is sanctioning this position as of Monday, Aug. 22.
Doesn’t that seem somewhat of a rush decision?
One would think that with such an important position the closing date should be at least 30 days after posting. It gives enough time to carefully evaluate the curriculum vitae for all candidates. Was the position posted to get the best candidate for the job? Or, maybe, like Coun. Max Picton, we chose not to read it because it might be negative.
The whole process seems somewhat fishy to me. It’s about as transparent as a one square metre piece of lead. It seems to have a stronger aroma than the treatment plant on a windy day.
This whole scenario seems to play out as council having a preconceived idea as to who the candidate should be and that the candidate was hand-picked. I guess we’ll never know as council is not known for being transparent.
Ron Barillaro
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391340851.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/5e3ed25c05373bbaf91b58d3acb29838864abdbaa8665ab7be03a9d19b76c708.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:11:14 | null | null | I challenge the mayor and council to have a referendum on this proposal. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391339861.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Numbers don’t lie | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | More than a handful of the population of Penticton are against this ludicrous proposal of the (invisible) Trio and their buddies the mayor and council.
I challenge the mayor and council to have a referendum on this proposal. It’s a lot more economical than the court cases. This theft of parkland is outrageous.
Now the mayor and council want to hire a “spin doctor” for approximately $100,000 a year to get where the mayor and council can’t seem to get to and/or doesn’t want to be seen or heard.
Let us, for argument’s sake, say that a referendum is $25,000 to $35,000 minimum — that would be a quick and decided forum on this issue. The mayor and council know the results beforehand and will be embarrassed to the point that they will have to resign.
As for comments that the Save Skaha Park Society represents a relatively small percentage, the numbers are by far much, much greater than support for the “sale” of a large part of Skaha Park.
Georges & Cheryl Jansen
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391339861.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/bfad5ee5dd324c97b1322e98bb5a6d726f9798cc5d801580873f386ffc01408b.json |
[
"Steve Kidd"
] | 2016-08-29T16:52:18 | null | null | A local group is planning to show city council that opposition to leasing Skaha Lake park is not dying down. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391342791.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/68418penticton0926cliffmartinfile.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Skaha Park rally planned at Penticton City Hall | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Clifford Martin tapes a sign to the steps of city hall prior to a rally in Aug. 2016 that drew hundreds. Another rally protesting the leasing of Skaha Park is planned for Sept. 6 to continue sending the message to Penticton city council.
Echoing the mass rallies at Penticton City Hall last summer, a local group is planning to show city council that opposition to leasing Skaha Lake park is not dying down.
A public rally is being organized for Sept. 6 at 4:45 p.m., just prior to council’s evening meeting. According to a release from Nelson Meikle, who filed a second civil claim against the city opposing the leasing of part of the park to Trio Marine Group, the rally is in response to the city’s engagement from the public.
“We believe this is our way to call for a referendum on Skaha Park and discuss in public many of the important issues facing us in the next 2.5 years dealing with this mayor and council,” the release reads.
The Sept. 6 rally is one of the outcomes of a public meeting held in Skaha Lake Park on Aug. 19, which Cliff Martin, one of the organizers, describes as a gathering to get a view on public discontent with city hall.
“It’s still strong, loud and clear that people don’t want to sell out Skaha Park. It is their park, it is not the city’s park,” said Martin. “Parks are for the people, it is their decision. It is not up to a few people at city hall who decide what they are going to do without the permission of the public.”
Martin said their group, unlike the Save Skaha Park Society, is focused on forcing a referendum, despite the fact the City of Penticton has already signed a contract with Trio Marine.
“We have a right to a referendum. That is the basic point, that they ignored our right to have a referendum,” said Martin, noting that the city is planning on spending $75,000 on an engagement consultant and more on ongoing downtown revitalization projects. “They spend money like crazy, but they don’t want to spend money for a referendum.
“They seem focused on forgetting about the public and just doing what they want.”
Martin said they had more than 400 people turn out Friday for the meeting in the park, and they are hoping to see many more at the Sept. 6 rally.
“We have to send a message to city hall. We are just showing them no, we still want our park and it is not their park to give away,” said Martin, adding that everyone is welcome at the rally. Others, he explained, are discontent with spending and other actions by city hall.
“If they want to protest that, it is up to them, but our main focus is Skaha Park. It’s a public rally, they can bring whatever sign they want,” said Martin. He adds that they aren’t trying to be divisive with the Save Skaha Park Society, which filed their civil claim opposing the deal with Trio in Sept. 2016.
The SSPS claim was put on hold earlier this year, when the city requested more time to work with the Trio on alternatives to their planned waterslide — the claim was reinstated on July 28.
“To me, I thought it was taking too long and it was a stall tactic by city hall, trying to hold things off, hoping that people would forget,” said Martin, adding that SSPS supporters are welcome at the rally.
“We welcome all sides to attend. The only side is preserving the park,” said Martin. “No matter what they say it’s our park and they are not taking it.” | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391342791.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/25dc5ce1d8b237b22bd89b3cdb6eacdef3eccafc4edc5b80eb52e1c0ca592527.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:11:31 | null | null | Mr. Kimberley is wrong in that the increase will be to four, not two people, in that department. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391340531.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Efficiency study needed at city hall | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | This is a response to Angela Dowling’s letter to the editor (Western News, Aug. 17, Learn to engage with the public) wherein she thanks Jake Kimberley for his very clear job description for mayor and city clerk.
Mr. Kimberley is wrong in that the increase will be to four, not two people, in that department.
I have been previously served by the corporate officer’s assistant when requesting information. The third addition is the present communications officer with the proposed engagement officer being the fourth person fulfilling communication duties. If each department increased at a ratio of four to one; city payroll would soon number by thousands.
Kimberley claims even a second person is unnecessary. Yet when he was mayor he expanded communications hiring a communications officer in 2006. Mr. Kimberley’s memory is self-serving and convenient as he is likely planning on running in the next election. Kimberley’s expansion of management at city hall provided impetus for the Core Service Review.
We need an efficiency study at city hall instead of this constant increase in management staff.
An efficiency study would recognize the hard work; efficiency and contribution of those whose work goes largely unrecognized. It would also highlight the slackers and those that take advantage of other employees to lighten their load. It would highlight time-consuming make-work projects. An efficiency study is an opportunity to recognize and reward those that deserve it; Recognition of abilities that likely have remained off the radar screen of the CAO.
Individual departments can be their own little worlds with little opportunity for advancement. A study would open this up. This is what leads to future advancement as individual talents are recognized outside of their departments.
It also provides an opportunity to cut the dead wood.
Elvena Slump
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391340531.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/6e718ef346a2a34ae7e2f8877ad4412298c24e5084734f04670c9aa83e8ed976.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:12:16 | null | null | The situation the City of Penticton finds itself in is very real, and it’s nothing to joke about. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2F390359161.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | EDITORIAL: City hall stuck in the middle on marijuana debate | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | It’s always a temptation when writing about the various marijuana dispensaries that have popped up around town to treat it lightly and slip in puns about pot, weed etc.
The situation the City of Penticton finds itself in is very real, and it’s nothing to joke about.
On one hand, the sale of marijuana from storefronts is illegal. No real way around that; no matter how many court cases or task forces there are looking into the rules surrounding marijuana distribution and legalization, the fact is this type of sales remains illegal and under federal jurisdiction.
On the other hand, change is on its way, though when and what form of legalization will take remains a mystery. In the meantime, the federal government has left municipalities dangling and the RCMP, by all public indications, have taken a hands-off approach.
That leaves city hall right in the middle. They can’t grant a business licence for an illegal activity, nor can they ignore either the demand for cannabis sales on the part of the community.
Faced with these kind of choices, council has done the right thing by suspending the business licences of the four stores already in operation and voting to cancel three of them after listening to their appeals. At the same time, city staff were given 60 days to create a report with options to regulate medical cannabis dispensaries.
Whether or not Penticton city council decides to take the chance, stepping outside their jurisdiction to create a cannabis dispensary business licence policy is another question, but at least they are taking steps towards some sort of a solution.
Whether the client is truly a medical user or recreational, clients of these dispensaries are not going to stop buying pot — they are either going to buy it on the street, or from dispensaries that choose to keep operating regardless of the fines imposed by the city.
Keeping sales off the street would seem to be the better choice. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/390359161.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/50bb7ea2304924aae8a03ecd4719f11c20ba67043a90c082b6b5fe3128ab7974.json |
[
"Kathy Michaels"
] | 2016-08-27T16:51:25 | null | null | Much ado has been made of British Columbians not getting an opportunity to camp this year. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2F391338811.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/67074pentictonHorgancampground.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Michaels: Headline grab for camping woes | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | John Horgan, leader of the British Columbia New Democratic Party, believes a shortage of campsites, increasing fees and a campground reservation system which benefits resellers are issues which must be addressed. He said an NDP government would add 3,000 campsites over a four-year period. John Horgan, leader of the British Columbia New Democratic Party, believes a shortage of campsites, increasing fees and a campground reservation system which benefits resellers are issues which must be addressed. He said an NDP government would add 3,000 campsites over a four-year period.
Much ado has been made of British Columbians not getting an opportunity to camp this year.
There were complaints about the reservation system locking people out.
Others griped about fellow capitalists having the audacity to trying to make a profit off of their camping oriented businesses, and booking up sites faster than they could.
The latest whinge came from NDP Leader John Horgan.
He was in the Okanagan recently, saying rising campground fees in B.C. parks was getting in the way of a good outdoor adventure for cash-strapped families.
Camping fees at Okanagan Lake Provincial Park, for example, went up more than 16 per cent just last year.
“People lucky enough to find a campsite here at Okanagan Lake are being forced to pay even more money to experience one of the jewels in our provincial campground system this year,” said Horgan, while standing on said jewel.
“The Christy Clark government is making it harder and harder to enjoy the beautiful campgrounds British Columbians have already paid for with their taxes, and I say it’s time to let B.C. camp.”
It didn’t quite bottom out in that “let them eat cake” way Marie Antoinette was famously misquoted — c’est la vie— but I can’t say the call for British Columbians to have more chances to live like transients really resonated with me.
Maybe it rankled me because homelessness is something that really could use some concerted effort in this city, let alone this province. Mostly I think it was because homelessness is an experience more of us are going know more intimately if this cost of housing thing doesn’t get some serious attention.
Maybe I’m wrong and this really is a big deal, and not just a chance to get headlines on a populist issue of little actual importance?
B.C. is really beautiful and its residents certainly should get as much access to the outdoors as they can. But I live in B.C. I was largely raised in B.C. and the one thing I know for sure is that B.C. has no shortage of the great outdoors.
And while I enjoyed my time away from this province in cities where open spaces and clear air seemed mythological I came back because, while I don’t want to sleep outside, I do want to soak in the natural world as much as I can.
So my family and I go for walks and picnics. We swim and ride our bikes. We even camp in our yard when the neighbourhood bear isn’t trolling for garbage. My husband thinks it’s because he couldn’t get a campsite, like legions of others who clicked too slowly on the reservation site. It’s really because I like the option of going to my own bed in the middle of the night ... but I digress.
I’d like to stay in B.C., like so many others I know, so my family can keep doing all the aforementioned things. But this is an expensive place to live and the wages aren’t that hot.
So before the great and good of this province make more ado about nothing, perhaps they can focus their efforts on what’s really important for us common folk.
Here’s a hint, it’s not camping.
Kathy Michaels is a reporter at the Kelowna Capital News, part of the Black Press family of newspapers. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/391338811.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/6f1505c74305e0283dd9f8ceec457b1a942823c934faa074082d7306966ee560.json |
[
"Staff"
] | 2016-08-29T18:50:17 | null | null | A volunteer chair in Penticton is needed to assist organizing a local Alzheimer awareness fundraiser by mid-September. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391633731.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/39723penticton91493penticton0128WalkforMemories.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Penticton volunteers needed for Walk for Alzheimer’s | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Piper Geordie Young leads a group of about 70 people including (left to right) caregiver honorees Nicole Joostema, Joy Huebert and Steve Ungerer during the 13th annual Investors Group Walk for Memories at Cherry Lane Shopping Centre, that took place in 2015. Over $24,000 was raised for the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
A volunteer chair in Penticton is needed to assist organizing a local Alzheimer awareness fundraiser by mid-September.
The fun and family-friendly Investors Group Walk for Alzheimer’s is looking for a volunteer to chair the city's 2017 Walk, which takes place on the first Sunday of May. The event is part of the country's biggest fundraiser for Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Other volunteer positions also need to be filled.
“The personal rewards are many." said Marg Rodgers of her experience as a volunteer chair with the Penticton event for more than a decade. "The best reward is to see residents of our community joining us on the day of the event to share that common cause. They have an opportunity to bring help and hope to those in our community facing dementia."
It’s estimated that 70,000 British Columbians live with Alzheimer's or another dementia and that number is expected to more than double in the next generation.
Laurie Myres, the support and education co-ordinator for the non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C. for Penticton and the South Okanagan and Similkameen region, said the walk plays an important role in helping local residents and caregivers whose lives have affected by dementia.
"People who volunteer can make a real difference in Penticton. It's so satisfying for them to know that the funds raised here help support the programs and services of the Alzheimer Society of B.C. in our community."
The 2016 Walk in Penticton raised $29,589.
Rodgers said next year's walk needs a passionate and committed chair who will be responsible for leading a local committee of other volunteers. "There is no better feeling than sharing a common cause with a group of volunteers," she said.
The Alzheimer Society of B.C. provides in-depth training, resources and ongoing support, to ensure committee leaders have the best event experience possible.
"I always tell people who are interested in joining a walk committee that it’s like baking a cake," Rodgers said. “You have a recipe to follow. Gather the needed ingredients together in the right order. Mix in the proper order. Follow the method. Bake at the right temperature for the right amount of time and you will have results. It is just that easy.”
Candidates for the chair position should have some organizational skills, live or work in Penticton, and be enthusiastic, driven and community-minded. Other volunteers may also be needed to serve on the walk committee.
If you are interested, or would like more information, contact Melanie Munroe at mmunroe@alzheimerbc.org or 604-742-4915.
The Investors Group Walk for Alzheimer’s runs nationally each year and is Canada’s biggest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
For more information on local resources that can help you live well with dementia, visit www.alzheimerbc.org. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/community/391633731.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/d8b9be2132c34cfc54c0e4ac23bbc7a16d8a925d75a7b3f0d03450e49416032b.json |
[
"Emanuel Sequeira"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:47 | null | null | Bruno Campese is leaving the Okanagan Hockey Academy to take a scouting position with the NHL's Las Vegas franchise | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391057021.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/44818pentictonS-BrunoCampese.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Campese lured away from OHA by NHL's Las Vegas franchise | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | BRUNO CAMPESE, who coached the Okanagan Hockey Academy bantam prep team, has been hired by the NHL's Las Vegas franchise as a scout.
Bruno Campese wasn’t looking to leave the Okanagan Hockey Academy.
When the chance to work in the NHL with its newest franchise, Las Vegas, as an amateur scout was presented, he couldn’t pass that up.
“It happened very quickly,” said Campese. “Late last week I was contacted to see of the interest level. I was extremely interested in something of that nature. We finalized the details on the weekend.”
Campese, who was the general manager of the Prince Albert Raiders in the Western Hockey League, was contacted by Kelly McCrimmon, former GM of the Brandon Wheat Kings, who is the assistant general manager of Las Vegas. Campese has been to Las Vegas as the WHL held its annual meetings there in February and said it’s a fun city.
“They have a beautiful arena. Everything is going to be new and exciting. I think there will be a lot of energy,” said Campese, who coached the Penticton Vees from 2005-07.
Campese said it is a new challenge as scouting full-time in the NHL is something he has not done. Being involved with an NHL franchise, but one from the ground up, gives him an opportunity to grow with a group of people.
“That part of it is pretty intriguing,” said Campese, who now has a new favourite NHL team after growing up and cheering for the Vancouver Canucks.
Campese will be based out of the Okanagan, which will allow him to remain living in West Kelowna. A draft pick of the Boston Bruins in 1982, Campese said his family is excited about the opportunity, especially his son Matthew, who plays for the Kamloops Blazers.
“He thinks it’s awesome,” said Campese, who spent the past year with the OHA coaching the bantam prep team and guided them to the championship game in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League.
“My experience at OHA, it has been so amazing. It’s such a wonderful program,” said Campese. “The people are awesome. I can’t say enough about Andy Oakes (president) and Dixon Ward (vice-president) and the whole staff. It was awesome working there for the year.
“OHA is excited for Bruno and this new opportunity at the NHL level,” said Ward. “His hard work, commitment, and experience was very beneficial to us and we wish him the best of luck in this new venture.”
Campese will join the Las Vegas franchise immediately. A replacement for him will be announced in the near future. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391057021.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/8a47c808e8eb68c42fd407eca66a04084947d534b05b7100b0ed46757166311c.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:12:04 | null | null | Penticton is a big enough city that it is time for the courthouse upgrades rather than move trials to Kelowna. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2F391095251.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | EDITORIAL:Time to upgrade our courthouse | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | When a crime is alleged to have been committed in a community then is should be resolved within that community. Not so much the case when it comes to the Penticton Courthouse.
The trial for accused murderers Grace and Pierre Robotti is not the first time a case of importance to many within our boundaries has shifted to another community because of a concern for safety within the Penticton Courthouse. If nothing changes, it will not be the last.
Just a few years ago, a murder trial was moved to Kelowna for the same reasons. Putting family members and friends of the victim in the horrible position of having to seek time off work to travel back and forth to another community for the weeks-long trial. The community at large should also be able to hear evidence presented for themselves.
How about the civilian witnesses that now have to shift schedules to travel out of town? Or, what about the RCMP officers costs in travelling time and taking away from their police work?.At what point does it become more costly to change the venue than just do the upgrades necessary?
It is fully understandable that sheriffs, judges and counsel have concerns in a courthouse that is in need of safety upgrades. They are legitimate and we have seen them first-hand.
A few years ago a member of the gallery yelled obscenities at a person in the prisoners box, after there was a heated exchange of words where only a chain link fence separated the public from the prisoner that was being moved to the sheriff’s transport vehicle. This had nothing to do with the sheriff’s level of professionalism, but was all about the upgrades needed in the courthouse.
While a change of venue where a fair and impartial jury may not be possible is a fair reason to move, lack of sufficient safety should not be.
Penticton is a big enough city that it is time for the courthouse upgrades based on the interests of justice to all parties and the community it serves. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/391095251.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/38aa7a3d076b672446fac578ca8eb9a260037178dff41c27650d688e4f71ce75.json |
[
"Dale Boyd"
] | 2016-08-26T13:01:04 | null | null | It was a match made in Twitter for local artists Fly Sugar Money who have the rapper featured in their latest remix. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F390637411.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/28119pentictonS-FlySugarMoney1.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | New Jersey's Pacewon brings verse to Penticton music video | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | When Jon “Li’l Jay” Pelletier self-describes Fly Sugar Money as “electro-funk, house, trap that controls the masses,” you can get a sense of how seriously the group of Penticton musicians, artists and collaborators take the project.
“It’s really a riddle wrapped in an enigma,” Pelletier laughed.
The Martian Campfire Remix is surely unlike any music video ever before, with dance moves, BMX tricks, local actors and supporter of the arts and odd, quirky, hilarious digital animations.
Fellow member of Fly Sugar Money, Will “HOFF” Hoffman, a local visual artist, does the catchy beats and additional vocals, digital animation and editing for music videos, while Pelletier has a more traditional musical background.
“For me, I’ve been making music since I was like five when I was first put into piano lessons because I kept smashing the keys on pianos whenever I saw them. Since then I’ve just had to (play). I’ll get this anxious energy and I’ll have to bash out some music. That’s what music is for me, but Will is…”
“Just having fun,” Hoffman laughed. “The last album we wanted to be almost listenable.”
Fly Sugar Money put out their first mixtape in 2012 and the group recently released a music video shot in Penticton with the help of Daniel Larusso of the grunge/punk duo the Karate Kids and hip-hop dance instructor Jake Evans. The avant-garde style of Fly Sugar Money is humorous and bizarrely engaging, stepping up their profile with the notable inclusion of New Jersey rapper Pacewon.
Best known for his work with Mr. Green and prior to that the group Outsidaz (who at one point collaborated with Detroit megastar Eminem and the group D12), Pacewon was approached digitally by Hoffman to do a verse on Fly Sugar Money’s remix.
“I messaged him on Twitter and said something like ‘hey, can you do a verse, I’ve got X amount of money,’ and he said ‘yeah, sure.’ I pestered him with emails for a couple of months and he came through with the verse,” Hoffman laughed.
Indicative of the shrinking world in the Internet age, Hoffman did it on a whim as a fan of Pacewon.
“I thought he was a really good lyricist and somewhat well-known. I thought he could bring something different,” said Hoffman. “He was just doing his thing and it’s a good contrast with the rest of the song because he’s just so aggressive in it, really punching those lines.”
Laurosso shares a verse on the remix which was recorded at Saint Germaine’s Café, where they had to “turn the radio down,” in the café to record it.
To check out the video visit www.willhoff.ca and a digital download is available for $2. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/entertainment/390637411.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/252654ddf0146796b55ec7fe1b22bbc5c5421534acd8b4f8e8db257a91e12462.json |
[
"Dale Boyd"
] | 2016-08-31T00:52:39 | null | null | Police arrived to find a fully-naked male in front of the Chevron gas station having poured homogenized milk on his genitals. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391806561.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/17442pentictonRCMPcarsfile3-ES-BPfiles-web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Naked Penticton man claims he was bear-sprayed | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | On Aug. 24 at 1:40 a.m. police responded to a request to assist a male who claimed to have been assaulted with bear spray.
Police arrived to find a fully-naked male in front of the Chevron gas station having poured homogenized milk on his genitals. The male told police two or three males had ran up to him and sprayed him with bear spray.
Police said their investigation concluded that the spray pattern was consistent with the alleged victim carrying his own can of bear spray which was activated unintentionally. The male became uncooperative with officers and gave police no description of the alleged attackers.
Just 16 minutes later at 1:56 a.m. police responded to complaints of a commotion at an address on Fairview Avenue. Five people told police they were assaulted with bear spray by a male known to them over a debt.
The victims did not provide police with information on the assailant or what the debt was regarding. Police are not saying that the incidents are connected. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391806561.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/4909adb080b218ece7920bd051e7274c81860296f87d5ed8e6ac9dcc2094744d.json |
[
"Dale Boyd"
] | 2016-08-26T13:03:19 | null | null | It's an emotional farewell for Vaelei Walkden-Brown owner of the 557 Artist Block in downtown Penticton. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F389933721.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/93774penticton0812-ArtistBlock1.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Artist Block closing doors for now | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Vaelei Walkden-Brown, owner of the 557 Artist Block, is closing the doors to the venue and gallery this fall, but she said it’s not an ending, only an evolution.
She never expected to be running an art gallery/live music venue.
Originally from Edmonton, Walkden-Brown came to Penticton for a holiday to visit her parents after a 20-year stint in Perth, Australia working at creating her own interior design business.
“And I didn’t leave,” Walkden-Brown said.
She initially wanted to showcase design work, but it turned out more artists in Penticton were in need of a space.
“I only wanted to run it as a pop-up shop for one month,” Walkden-Brown said. “Yet, here we are.”
She was happy to get support, whether it be from local artists, or the likes of Penticton Art Gallery curator Paul Crawford who helped bring musical acts like Oliver Swain and Rae Spoon to the venue, or simply those who showed up to shows and helped with different projects. The transformation into a live music venue was an easy, but unexpected one.
“That just came about from people coming in and saying ‘this place would have great sound.’ Then it started to be a good way to get people into the shop and make enough money to cover rent,” Walkden-Brown said.
While it is difficult to say goodbye to the space that she has occupied since July 2015, the silver lining for Walkden-Brown is the support she received from the community.
“I want to thank all the people who supported me. It’s humbling and it’s very encouraging at the same time that people got behind it. People who came to the gigs, the work of the artists, the volunteers especially because I have a really loyal volunteer base which is amazing — as well as the Downtown Penticton Association,” Walkden-Brown said.
Peaches Lingerie owner Christina Conquergood is taking over the space expanding her operation.
“It’s something she’s been thinking about for awhile,” Walkden-Brown said. “She was a really amazing landlady. She was really accommodating and flexible with things and I appreciate that. I think she has an understanding of being a small business owner.”
Walkden-Brown hopes to continue having the 557 Artist Block appear with pop-up events and locations around Penticton, reducing some of the stresses that come with overhead and rent, while continuing to provide Penticton access to unique arts and entertainment.
“A vibrant city should have a vibrant downtown, so I want to continue working with the Downtown Penticton Association,” Walkden-Brown said. “I think the arts will continue to have a growing presence and impact in the city and I want to be part of that.”
The Artist Block is planning a closing party Oct. 1.
“It’s not ending it’s just going to change,” Walkden-Brown said.
Those looking to still support the Artist Block and local artists Walkden-Brown invites to check out the work hanging in the gallery with art remaining for sale until the fall. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/community/389933721.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/da7583ba0381ef8064548326a30c48bfe2071847f6f39f8bc8644b21bffebc1a.json |
[
"Dale Boyd"
] | 2016-08-29T20:52:20 | null | null | Jail sentence of four years is being recommended for Mexican national arrested for smuggling drugs into Canada along the Osoyoos border. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391644951.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/81527pentictoncourthouse.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Mexican drug smuggler compelled by cartel, defence says | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | A Mexican national, arrested along the Osoyoos border, said he was compelled into smuggling drugs by a cartel.
Alexis Joel Garcia Palomino, 24, pleaded guilty to two counts of importing/exporting a controlled substance and one count of failing to present himself at the customs office. Palomino, who was arrested at the Osoyoos border on March 17, appeared at the Penticton Provincial Courthouse on Monday, Aug. 29 via video and received the assistance of a Spanish translator over the phone.
Crown counsel Ginger Holmes suggested a jail sentence of four years during Palomino’s court appearance. Defence counsel Robert Maxwell submitted a letter to Crown as well as Mexico’s Canadian embassy outlining that Palomino was compelled by Mexican cartels to smuggle the drugs into Canada.
Maxwell said outside the courtroom that this possibly factored in to the Crown’s sentencing position, with smuggling charges usually landing somewhere between six to eight years jail time.
A pre-sentence report was ordered and Palomino returns to court Oct. 26. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391644951.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/b687e992b1904b24832d59e797494d9855def1f60f87198df4b2c5d34790a492.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-31T00:52:38 | null | null | Two sides avert job action that has loomed for months | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391803281.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/18051BCLN2007Canada_Post_TruckWikimediaCommons.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Canada Post, postal union reach tentative deals | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers have reached tentative agreements, averting the prospect of a labour dispute that has loomed over the talks for months.
In a statement, Labour Minister MaryAnn Mihychuk says the agreements were reached "voluntarily," but provides no other details about the deals themselves.
The issue of differences in paycheques for rural mail carriers — most of whom are women — and urban letter carriers had been at the forefront of protracted contract talks between the two sides.
The negotiations were extended twice since the weekend, when a deadline expired on a 72-hour job action notice issued last Thursday by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers.
The two sides were in talks nearly around the clock at the request of a special mediator appointed Friday by Mihychuk.
Canada Post described the tentative agreements as short-term. It said they are for two years and that four-year contracts were typically negotiated in the past.
"The agreements will avert a work disruption, bringing much-needed certainty in the postal system for our employees and customers," said Canada Post in a statement. "Canadians can now use the postal system with confidence."
The tentative agreements, however, still must be ratified by the members.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers is Canada Post's largest union, representing more than 50,000 postal workers
The Canadian Press | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391803281.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/65cccba13f3cbdcd0157692c2da562e7e70074d24de790a3bbb5b3cfb4ae865c.json |
[
"Mark Brett"
] | 2016-08-26T13:04:46 | null | null | Paul James is set to don his Santa suit a bit early this year to benefit the South Okanagan Women in Need Society. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F389934291.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/93990penticton0812toyride.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Revving up a toy run | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | That's Paul James behind the dark glasses and santa suit as he gears up for his motorcycle toy ride that takes place Aug. 21. He's hoping to be able to help clients of the South Okanagan Women in Need Society by providing gifts for the kids this Christmas.
Paul James is a man on a motorcycle on a mission.
The Keremeos resident is looking for quite a few other good men and women to help him out in his quest.
James will be donning his summer Santa suit on Aug. 21 for the first of what he hopes will become an annual toy ride to generate gifts for needy kids at Christmas.
His charity of choice for the event is the South Okanagan Women in Need Society (SOWINS) to provide gifts for the children of abused and battered women.
“I really don’t know how many riders to expect, I’m hoping for maybe a 100, maybe more, maybe less. I’m looking for anybody who rides a motorcycle and wants to help charity,” said James, who is also a member of the Okanagan Motorcycle Riders Association (OMRA) which holds a similar ride each year in September.
“This is a totally different ride (than OMRA) for a totally different charity and that’s why we’re doing it at this time of year, so it doesn’t conflict with their ride,” said James. “It’s all about charity, it really is, it’s all about helping the kids.”
The day begins at 8 a.m. at the Penticton branch of the Royal Canadian Legion with a pancake breakfast with admission being a cash donation or unwrapped toy for a boy or girl.
“We’ll get on the road about 10 a.m. and do a three-hour ride to Osoyoos and back and have lunch by donation,” said James, who participated in similar events when he lived in Calgary before moving to the Okanagan several years ago.
He is also making a special request for those who can donate an item or two to bring articles which are more appropriate for older kids and teens.
“It always seems there are lots of stuffed toys so we would like to able to give them something a little different,” he said.
This year’s OMRA ride is the 29th annual South Okanagan Toy Run which takes place Sept. 18 starting with the Lions breakfast at 9 a.m. at the Peach in Rotary Park.
Toy drops where people can leave donations include Rotary Park, Summerland Secondary School (10:15 a.m.) the Oliver A&W (11:30 a.m.) and Okanagan Falls IGA (12:15 p.m.) and returning for Lions burgers at 1:30 p.m.
There will also be door prizes, 50/50 draw and Toonie auction.
All proceeds go to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
For more information that event contact Roy Colmer at 250-809-4757.
Paul James can be reached at 1-250-486-7464. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/community/389934291.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/6dccd36f54da9d5d2c9236d901a8848970853f2fb1513ee83dd2d90d9871f73f.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T16:51:44 | null | null | The inevitable re-zoning notice at 273 Scott Ave. is expected to mark the end of another hot lazy summer. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391749941.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Responsible development | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Once again as summer turns to autumn we the residents of Scott Avenue, watch the leaves begin to blaze in autumn glory as we wait for the inevitable re-zoning notice at 273 Scott Ave. to appear and mark the end of another hot lazy summer.
Time to put on our best clothes and march smartly to the public hearing held every Tuesday after Labour Day to try and plead our cause to have the zoning stay the same. Some call us anti-development and anti-density. They claim that we are trying to hold on to a way of life no longer viable in a new and changing world of decreasing resources and global climatic change.
Personally, I would wish for some development on 273 Scott Ave. Perhaps a nice four-plex or even two four-plexes with some green space for families to live and kids to play. Something affordable for young mothers living on the edge of homelessness, a place for people to build a life and feel safe and secure.
A four-storey, 16-unit apartment building isn’t going to house a lot of families is it? What happened to council’s promise to help the most vulnerable of our community? The developer has stated in the past that he will be unable to make a profit unless he puts an apartment on the lot. I wonder how all the other developers in town make profits building duplexes and four-plexes on similar sized lots? A lot of questions that nobody seems willing to answer.
I wonder, what happened to your promises to promote families, and the close bonds of neighbourhoods. Where are the green spaces and places for children and families to play? What happened to the responsibility of developers and councils to work with their community and help the disenfranchised? I guess it is all part of a past that no longer matters.
Gwenellen Tarbet
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391749941.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/589b44ea90124c643cabc2b1c5bd208de4ee2944fbdb9db949dbb9c4cd2e6a14.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:33 | null | null | Premier Christy Clark isn't going into next year's election with a promise to jack up Canada's only significant carbon tax | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2F391051701.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/42735BCLN2007ClarkPolakNissanLeaf7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | BC VIEWS: B.C. fails to save the planet | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Premier Christy Clark and Environment Minister Mary Polak plug in an electric car at an announcement of the government's latest climate change plan in Richmond Aug. 19.
A B.C. Liberal operative was out with the online spin hours before Premier Christy Clark confirmed the much-leaked news in a Friday afternoon announcement at an obscure location in Richmond.
The, er, freeze is continuing for B.C.’s ground-breaking, world-saving carbon tax, which hasn’t changed since before Clark was elected in 2013.
The spin was Olympic-themed, with a picture labeled to show B.C. as a swimmer far out in the lead in the pool, to symbolize that it’s the other provinces that need to catch up in the race to save the planet.
Clark has been saying that for years, and there is merit to it. Even without a tax on “process emissions” such as from cement kilns, B.C.’s carbon tax encourages imports of non-taxed cement from the U.S. and China.
Alberta business professor Andrew Leach, who advised the Stephen Harper and then Rachel Notley governments on greenhouse gas policies, summed up the problem this way.
“Until the rest of the world has policies that impose similar cost, you’re not actually reducing emissions to the extent you think,” Leach said. “You’re just displacing the emissions and the economic activity to other jurisdictions.”
Alberta is moving to join B.C. with a modest carbon tax, but the NDP government plans to spend the proceeds rather than return them in income tax as B.C. has done. And Washington state and most of the rest of the world have no carbon tax as such, so their businesses benefit from B.C.’s “climate leadership.”
B.C.’s foreign-funded eco-radical community was, needless to say, appalled. The Pembina Institute’s Matt Horne and career protesters Tzeporah Berman and Merran Smith were named to the premier’s advisory committee last year, along with business, academic and aboriginal representatives.
They concluded that increases to B.C.’s broad-based tax on carbon fuels should resume its upward march in 2018.
Other committee members, including the mayors of Surrey, Comox and Burns Lake, were not heard from. Public discussion on this issue is now reduced to a staged conflict between those who demand a holy war on deadly carbon dioxide “pollution,” and those who don’t care if their grandchildren perish in a hell-fire of fossil fuel use.
We’ve just come off another El Nino year, like the hot year of 1998. Regular readers will recall the last time I discussed this topic was this spring, where I questioned the premier’s dire warnings of another horrendous forest fire season.
What followed has been one of the slowest forest fire seasons in the last decade, although dry conditions have finally emerged this month. Climate predictions, like next week’s weather forecast, are less than consistent.
I am regularly sent messages calling me a “climate change denier,” the nonsense term that continues to be used by federal Environment Minister Catharine McKenna among many others. I know of no one who denies that climate is always changing, at times dramatically.
If you wish to believe that paying an extra seven cents a litre for gasoline in B.C. is helping to slow the very gradual increase in temperatures we’re seeing in the northern hemisphere, you are free to do so.
You may even be persuaded to take a government subsidy and buy an expensive, short-range electric car. Me, I’m off to Prince Rupert and Revelstoke pretty soon, so I’ll stick with my little four-cylinder gas sipper for now.
Hydro-powered B.C. represents a small fraction of the less than two per cent Canada contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions. We’re not the problem, and no, the world is not looking to us for guidance.
Tom Fletcher is B.C. legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press. Email: tfletcher@blackpress.ca Twitter: @tomfletcherbc | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/391051701.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/485cc418bbc63a8691f5efe5aaf15f813a77cd283b4d53eb03b7159c195ea7b7.json |
[
"Staff Writer"
] | 2016-08-26T13:10:07 | null | null | Summerland will celebrate Canada Day with events in Memorial Park on Friday, July 1. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F385107191.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/17474summerlandCanadaflag.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Summerland Legion hosts Canada Day activities | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Summerland will celebrate Canada Day with events in Memorial Park on Friday, July 1.
The day will begin with a Kiwanis pancake breakfast at 8:30 a.m.
At 11 a.m., an official ceremony will begin with a flag raising ceremony. A short presentation will follow, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the tragedy at Beaumont-Hamel.
A barbecue, Canada Day cake and ice cream will follow the ceremony.
Sparkle and Canada flag tattoos, Canadian flags and pins, as well as Forget-Me-Not pins are also available free for attendees.
Traditional picnic games for children, face painting and other activities will be held from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. These events are coordinated by the Summerland Girl Guides.
This year, activities will also include a bouncy castle for children.
Summerland’s Canada Day events are organized by the Summerland Legion. Donations to defray the cost of this event are accepted.
A complete schedule is available online at www.summerlandlegion.ca. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/lifestyles/385107191.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/94350104bee434242daed2d28c287266225eccf0c0907f63f9ad19c42c59d42c.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T18:52:44 | null | null | Valley residents chip in to help Okanagan father of four recover from aneurysm | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391764791.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Okanagan College professor to walk through valley to raise money | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | An Okanagan College professor will be walking through Kelowna this week as part of an ambitious three-day trek to raise money for Gary Baker, an Okanagan father of four who suffered a massive brain aneurysm early in August.
Tim Walters, an English professor at the Salmon Arm campus and president of the college’s Faculty Association, aims to walk 160 kilometres, making stops at Penticton, Kelowna, Vernon, and Salmon Arm campuses starting Tuesday Aug.30 and arriving at his destination Sept. 1.
“I’ve known Gary for several years, and I was keen to do something to try to help him and his family,” said Walters. Baker was a student at Okanagan College last year, having returned to school to pursue a career in engineering after years of working as a timber framer.
His wife Erica is also an OC student, and commutes a few times a week to Kelowna where she attends classes to get her biochemistry degree.
All their educational efforts were cast aside when Baker suffered a severe brain aneurism Aug. 1 while playing soccer.
He's undergone two surgeries and is currently recovering in Vancouver, which is a process that may take many months or even year Baker is currently out of an induced coma, and responds differently depending on the day, said soccer teammate Ron Krause.
They plan for a two-year recovery period, which is taxing the family.
“They’ve been stretching every dollar. They have the extra burden of student loans” said Erica's sister, Katherine Goertz “Someone offered to pick their veggies. People have been mailing cheques to the house."
Despite all the help, the family has a long road ahead of them and people all across the valley have been chipping in to help.
The Kelowna Cantinas, who were playing the Camels when Baker collapsed, raised $320 earlier this week.
There are also two GoFundMe campaigns.
The first is “Help Support the Bakers” or gofundme.com/2hvh3jg, which has raised $32,000 as of Aug. 30.
The next is for Walters's walk. It's at www.gofundme.com/campustocampus with files from Salmon Arm. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391764791.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/1845620151f9cfae70ab4e5805b6096c3f9b64f830788ad116cf6f4418473fa3.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:26 | null | null | Notice means delivery could be cancelled as early as Monday | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391302051.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/68221BCLN200782072cranbrookdailyCPweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Postal union issues strike notice after it says Canada Post refused special mediator | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | The union representing most workers at Canada Post has issued a 72-hour notice of job action as it tries to bargain a collective agreement with the Crown corporation.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers says the notice spells out what actions it is planning, but stops short of a full-blown walkout.
CUPW national president Mike Palecek says Canada Post forced the labour disruption by refusing to accept a request from the federal labour minister to continue negotiations with the help of a special mediator.
But a spokesman for the agency says that's not the case.
The union's strike mandate was set to expire at midnight.
The two sides have been in negotiations for more than nine months but are far apart on key issues including pay equity for rural carriers and proposed changes to the Canada Post pension plan.
The Canadian Press | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391302051.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/dea5632f73fb61ed02caf12bd2b3ed6bc2b05dd702ab8e42e4a36e473855b991.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:11:38 | null | null | Much to my surprise I discovered that Tom Fletcher and I have some beliefs in common. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391340971.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Fletcher's column is satirical gold | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Much to my surprise I discovered that Tom Fletcher and I have some beliefs in common.
In his B.C. Views column (Western News, Aug. 17, Premier Red Green’s fast fixes) Tom humorously took on all the recent attempts by the Christy Clark Liberals to fluff up and polish their unsavoury image. From minimum wage disparities to “this school is closed” to the “I mean that school is now open” nonsense.
Tom’s comparison of Liberal balderdash to duct tape repairs by a fictitious TV character is satirical gold.
Thanks Tom for telling it like it is in the frenzied world of Clark’s electoral angst. Keep that in mind folks, Christy’s abrupt turn-around duct tape fixes are in aid of holding on to a few Liberal seats that are in rocky territory.
Stick Tom’s column to the fridge and re-read several time before the next provincial election, May 9, 2017.
Dianne Bersea
Kaleden | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391340971.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/123f07f0318026b8d2fe106183671ab6d279a7a56160c508961b7162434a48d9.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T18:49:04 | null | null | Your source for concerts, plays, art exhibits and more in Penticton and the South Okanagan. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F391355501.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/72124pentictonTGIF-Web3.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | TGIF: Penticton concerts and event listings | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Concerts
Aug. 26 — Naomi Shore and Lindsay Pratt bring their duo Twin Peaks to Medici’s Gelateria and Coffee House on Fairview Road in Oliver. Tickets $25.
Aug. 26 — Lowell Friesen is live at the 557 Artist Block.
Aug. 26 — Deanna Knight and the Hot Club of Mars play the Dream Café. Tickets $24.
Aug. 27 — Brent Parkin brings the blues to the Dream Café with no cover charge.
Aug. 31 — Orange Soul Society, an upbeat groovy group from Penticton, play Cannery Brewing Co. Cover is $10.
Aug. 31 — Shakura S’Aida returns to Penticton at the Dream Café. Tickets $30.
Aug. 31 — Rob Thomas comes to the South Okanagan Events Centre.
Sept. 1 — Colin Sick and the Late For Works with Spaceport Union play the Elite.
Sept. 1 — Sapphire Empire come to the 557 Artist Block with guests Lakeman.
Sept. 2 and 3 — Legendary blues man Jim Byrnes returns to the Dream Café.
Sept. 9 — St. Saviour’s Anglican Church presents the folk/bluegrasss stylings of the Great Plains in concert. Tickets $15 available at the Dragon’s Den.
Sept. 10 — San Felix play the Elite with guests The Contacts.
Events
Aug. 13 to Sept. 11 — Behind the Lines: Contemporary Art from Syria continues at the Penticton Art Gallery.
Aug. 13 to Sept. 11 — Judith Foster: The Consul continues at the Penticton Art Gallery.
Aug. 13 to Sept. 11 — Kurt Hutterli: The Museum of Unknown Civilizations continues at the Penticton Art Gallery.
Sept. 1 to 3 — The Marginal Arts Festival in Summerland features arts workshops and concerts.
Sept. 8 — Pecha Kucha Penticton presents Why Here? with speakers reflecting on what brought them to the Okanagan. Starts 6 p.m. at Cannery Brewing Co.
Sept. 9 — The Great Grape Lake Stomp at the Penticton Lakeside Resort. Spectators free, teams register for $70 each.
Sept. 9 to 11 — Home As Monastery, an interactive exhibit by Cougar and Wolf Design comes to the 557 Artist Block.
Sept. 10 — Larry Liss joins art lovers at the Front Street Gallery for the opening of his show from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Sept. 20 — Banff Mountain Film Fest World tour, screening in Penticton at 7pm at the Cleland Theatre on. Presented by Nickel Plate Nordic Ski Club. Tickets $25 available at The Bike Barn and Peach City Runners.
Sept. 21 — Learn to social dance to beautiful Celtic music at the Shatford Centre 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Cost is $10 to drop in.
Sept. 23 to Oct. 6 — Eleanor Kingston brings her artwork to the Front Street Gallery with Kingston attending the opening on Sept. 23. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/entertainment/391355501.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/1da8c9be04dddd1d2b1a034782448f0a0997ecdd5831536ee5d804962615bb35.json |
[
"Emanuel Sequeira"
] | 2016-08-27T20:52:31 | null | null | ITU Multisport World Championship will bring thousands of athletes together in Penticton in 2017 | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fsports%2F391499931.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/57797pentictonCPCrossTriKatieButton.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Spotlight will shine on Penticton during debut of Multisport World Championship in 2017 | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | KATIE BUTTON of Victoria will be among the thousands of athletes in Penticton in 2017 for the International Triathlon Union Multisport World Championships Festival. Button is the female winner of the Cross Triathlon held on Friday.
The Multisport World Championships Festival coming to Penticton in 2017 is unique in the history of the International Triathlon Union.
That's what Eric Angstadt, manager of multisport for the ITU, said Saturday morning during a press conference in the Barking Parrot at the Lakeside Resort and Casino.
"It's bringing together all the multisport world championships together, giving a unique experience to the athletes and being able to participate in more than one in a set time frame," said Angstadt.
It will be the inaugural championship for Duathlon, Aquathlon,Cross Triathlon and Long Distance, the ITU reports, with the late addition of the Aqua Bike. Previously, the world championship races were held in separate cities on different dates.
"It's a great opportunity for the host city to showcase the region," said Angstadt, adding that Penticton beat out cities in Denmark, Japan, Poland and Spain for the right to host. "I think it's really exciting to offer this to the athlete experience, which is what it's really all about."
Angstadt is impressed with Penticton and said this can make a big difference where there is "condensed and concentrated passion, the outcome can be very good."
"The location is superb. As ITU, we're very happy to have it here for the first time," he said. "It will be a reference in the future so that we can even encourage other organizers to match the level that I think will be reached here.
"It is already a very known location here in America," he continued. "I think it will maybe set a reference for athletes around the world to reconsider coming here in the future for other events."
Penticton's Jeff Symonds, who won the full distance of Challenge Penticton its first two years, said everything for next year is on track. With all the events, he sees momentum building. Symonds also said the athletes are loving it, especially because there are options for what they can do.
"There is all these different events. Depending on what their specialty is, or what their training and life might allow, there is something for them," said Symonds, who won the Aquathlon on Thursday and will do the Long Distance course Sunday.
Michael Brown, executive director, Penticton 2017 Multisport World Championships Festival, said they are excited about this year and next.
"We have almost 800 athletes racing here tomorrow with the hopes of having up to 5,000 athletes in town next year," he said. "We believe Penticton not only has the geography and topography for this amazing event, but also the people and the volunteers to support an event of this size. We're excited to welcome the world next year."
Penticton Mayor Andrew Jakubeit presented medals during the duathlon. Looking out of the window from his office, every few minutes he
see someone on their bike riding by, training or getting ready for one of the next events.
"I think it is good for the city to be alive with all these athletes and they are from all over the place," he said. "I think it is exciting for the community, because this year and next year is really putting a spotlight on the community as that premier place to train, to compete or anything triathlon related. I think it is great exposure for us."
The ITU Multisport World Championships Festival is being hosted in Denmark in 2018, then shift to Spain in 2019. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/sports/391499931.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/4a89569516b02492e9b2db82b8a7ded26415c17d5f351e92da71616a9a3565b8.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:09:45 | null | null | Learn or brush up on your artistic skills for self-expression. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F382509791.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/27304kelowna15KAGteenworkshopweb650.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Kelowna Art Gallery summer classes for teens | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | A stimulating series of art classes geared specifically for teens returns to the Kelowna Art Gallery this summer.
The Friday for Teens Art Series is just one of the classes offered. It will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Friday, beginning July 15 and through to August 19 (no class on August 5).
Taught by Jim Elwood, participants can expect to develop drawing, painting, mixed media, and printmaking skills as well as self-expression.
Open to beginners and to those with intermediate skills, each week a different theme will be explored including Everything in Ink, Block Printing, More than Watercolour, Portraits (people and animals), and Wildlife Drawing.
The cost for each class is $70, or $55 for members of the Kelowna Art Gallery. An option to attend the entire five-week series of classes is also available.
A full listing and description of available classes can be found on KAG’s website. For more information or to register, please contact the Gallery at 250-762-2226. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/lifestyles/382509791.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/432115253846fae319e48f12b5bca44fd2d7f85842fefd2885cfe5f4f902937a.json |
[
"Jeff Nagel"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:07 | null | null | $60 a year increase for most drivers once optional auto insurance increase is included | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391304001.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/52753BCLN2007CarcrashLangleyfile.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | ICBC seeks 4.9 per cent basic rate hike as crashes, costs climb | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | ICBC wants to increase basic auto insurance rates by 4.9 per cent – the fifth straight annual increase – as it continues to grapple with rising numbers of crashes, claims and dramatically increasing costs.
The typical driver will pay $3.50 a month or $42 a year more for basic insurance if the hike is approved.
But the corporation is also raising optional rates by 2.8 per cent so the average customer who buys both basic and optional insurance with ICBC will see their insurance bill rise $5 a month, or $60 a year.
ICBC CEO Mark Blucher said the basic rate hike would have been much worse – 15.5 per cent translating into a $130 annual premium increase – had the province not approved another major transfer of $472 million from the optional to the basic side of operations.
A compounding factor has been the long decline of interest rates, which result in less investment income revenue to ICBC.
"These external pressures have really created a perfect storm and it's a really significant challenge for the organization," Blucher said in an interview Thursday.
ICBC had raised rates 5.5 per cent a year ago, and the province's rate smoothing policy requires the annual change be within 1.5 per cent of the previous year's increase.
The number of crashes has climbed 15 per cent in two years and damage claims are up 11 per cent.
Vehicles are increasingly reliant on technology and expensive materials that have become more costly in recent years as the loonie sagged against the U.S. dollar.
Despite much safer vehicles, injury claims have soared to $2.4 billion, up 60 per cent from $1.5 billion in 2008.
"We've seen no evidence that these strong trends are abating," Blucher said. "In fact, if anything, they're continuing to escalate going forward."
Blucher also noted there are more cars on the road in B.C. today – 3.1 million up from 2.8 million in 2011 – and people are driving more because of cheaper gas, contributing to more accidents, particularly in densifying urban areas.
And he pointed to personal injury lawyers as an aggravating cause of ICBC's spiralling claims costs.
"B.C. is the only province in Canada where you can sue another motorist for even a minor traffic accident," Blucher said, noting an increase in lawyer-represented claims and advertising by injury law firms.
Internal operating costs have been cut by $186 million a year, and ICBC is counting on more savings ahead, through its modernization program, by more aggressively combatting insurance fraud and from a hoped-for drop in distracted driving as motorists respond to stiffer penalties.
But transfers from the optional side to bolster the basic side will likely be needed for the foreseeable future, Blucher said, because basic premiums can't keep up with rising costs.
In a surprise move, the B.C. government will this year forgo extracting its usual $160-million annual dividend from ICBC's optional side into general revenue.
"Forgoing the dividend this particular year is one strategy amongst a litany of others we're employing to get that basic trate increase down," Transportation Minister Todd Stone said.
Stone said the $514 million the province has transferred out of ICBC in dividends since 2012 is small compared to the $1.4 billion over the same period that has been shifted from the competitive optional side to basic to apply downward pressure on basic rates.
The minister would not say if the government would permanently give up the ICBC dividend.
Adrian DIx, the NDP critic for ICBC, said the dividends to government have exceeded $1.2 billion since 2010 and predicted they'll resume after next year's election because the BC Liberals are "addicted" to using ICBC as a "profit centre."
Dix said the reliance on shifting huge amounts of capital from optional to basic raises troubling questions.
"Next year they've got to find that $472 million," Dix said. "What they've done is create a disaster at ICBC and their only hope is to deceive the voters until after the election."
He said ICBC's new move to hire more claims staff underscores problems with completing the computer modernization that was supposed to make operations more efficient.
"The transformation project has taken longer than World War 2 and is not close to finished."
ICBC's basic rates rose 11.2 per cent in 2012 and at least five per cent every year since.
The new rate hike is subject to B.C. Utilities Commission approval.
ICBC Rate Pressure Charts | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391304001.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/62e380a7393c8786a3b019af021bc13b7034fdcf023fc66bcd8a4b437594a09d.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T18:51:49 | null | null | Behaviour of U.S. Presidential candidates vying for the White House not acceptable. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391772031.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | LETTER: Toilet humour | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Behaviour of U.S. Presidential candidates vying for the White House transforming it into a teetering outhouse guaranteeing the winning occupant to be a real stinker.
Joe Schwarz
Penticton | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/letters/391772031.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/16beafd63c731fc6164fcff7cdca7cfb505bef987b888247b9d80f0535bfe4e3.json |
[
"Dale Boyd"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:30 | null | null | A man is heading to trial next year after allegedly shooting his roommate in a residence on Lindsay Road last summer. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fnews%2F391101451.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/63250penticton37875penticton0715-Shooting-police2.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Alleged shooting heading to trial next year | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | Police speak with a man outside the residence on Lindsay Road where a shooting took place Monday night. One man is in custody and another is in the hospital with gunshot wounds according to RCMP.
A man is heading to trial next year after allegedly shooting his roommate in a residence on Lindsay Road last summer.
Matthew James Cameron, who was 31 at the time of the alleged incident, is facing charges of attempted murder with a firearm and aggravated assault in relation to an incident on July 13, 2015 where police were called around 10:30 p.m. after reports of shots fired. Cameron’s roommate, Kyle Miller, was also 31 years old at the time of the incident.(Read more here: Two injured in shooting)
A hearing in Penticton on Aug. 22 set the judge and jury trial for June 5, 2017 in Penticton Supreme Court.
Cameron was released on bail July 17, 2015 with a $25,000 recognizance and a 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew and an order restricting him from possessing firearms. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/391101451.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/b97632735b1543ec6fd8ebc649e99ad10479fb18e5bebfd6bc710e275726e4ff.json |
[
"John Moorhouse"
] | 2016-08-26T13:11:59 | null | null | John Moorhouse is the development and communications officer for the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pentictonwesternnews.com%2Fopinion%2F391099181.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | More ways to support the medical foundation coming up | null | null | www.pentictonwesternnews.com | First and foremost, let me add a bit more to the news reports about the SOS Medical Foundation’s successful search for a new executive-director.
Carey Bornn has extensive experience in the foundation field, including previous positions with the St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation in Vancouver and the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation in New Westminster. He has visited Penticton several times to watch friends compete in Ironman and is a marathon runner himself.
Following Janice Perrino as head of our Foundation would not be an easy task for anyone, especially in the midst of a $20-million fundraising campaign. However, Carey brings his own impressive skills to the position and we’re delighted to welcome him on board. He officially starts with the foundation on Sept. 19.
Teeing up a thanks
Speaking of fun events, a really big thank you goes out to all those involved in the 20th annual Peach City Tees Up For Cancer ladies golf tournament last Friday and Saturday at the Penticton Golf & Country Club.
Penticton’s A.J. Eathorne (who returned to the LPGA tour at the Portland Classic in June and just missed the cut) was among those giving a helping hand. A.J. again this year, hit drives off the 14th tee for those players who donated $5 to the Medical Foundation during their round.
Tees Up has pledged $150,000 over five years for our PRH campaign, including the $44,000 raised in 2015. Final figures for this year are still being tabulated, but the laughs over the two days were priceless.
Peachfest throws down
Kudos to Joe Chwachka and everyone else involved in Peachfest’s PenTown Throwdown BMX and skateboard event at the Riverside Drive Youth Park. The competition included a “carbecue” on Aug. 6 which raised $1,160 for our Foundation. Special thanks to Ryan Wuthe of Boyd’s Autobody for cooking up some great burgers and hotdogs (loved the orange onions) on the stylized car-front grill and Colin Powell of IGA for providing all the supplies.
Telus on board
Corporate support for Penticton Regional Hospital continues to grow. The latest to come on board is Telus.
Telus is donating $25 to the SOS Medical Foundation for every new Optik TV or Telus Internet activation by customers within City of Penticton boundaries. This offer began in June and will continue until Sept. 9. We appreciate the folks at Telus for their community support.
Smile Cookies
Tim Hortons is getting set for its annual Smile Cookie campaign from Sept. 1 to 18. Last year, more than $30,000 was raised for PRH through cookie sales at the Tim’s outlets in the South Okanagan. A very big Thank You to the Stawarz family, owners of the local Tim Hortons franchises, for their fantastic support.
John Moorhouse is the development and communications officer for the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation. | http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/opinion/391099181.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.pentictonwesternnews.com/39d4e8391b48d85210968b643770b6f9eedd02d5ffd23ebfc74f14edc5479404.json |
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