authors list | date_download timestamp[s] | date_modify null | date_publish timestamp[s] | description stringlengths 1 5.93k ⌀ | filename stringlengths 33 1.45k | image_url stringlengths 23 353 | language stringclasses 21
values | localpath null | title stringlengths 2 200 ⌀ | title_page null | title_rss null | source_domain stringlengths 6 40 | maintext stringlengths 68 80.7k ⌀ | url stringlengths 20 1.44k | fasttext_language stringclasses 1
value | date_publish_final timestamp[s] | path stringlengths 76 110 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-29T16:51:37 | null | 2016-08-29T10:43:50 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fentertainment%2Fcast-wide-net-among-channels-sampling-new-fall-shows%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/enter_08-28-16b.jpg | en | null | Cast a wide net among channels when sampling new Fall shows | null | null | www.philasun.com | By Frazier Moore
associated press
NEW YORK — The fall TV season always marks a reset of sorts, signaling an influx of new shows and a respite from reruns. That’s the way it’s been since TV began, back when there were only three or four networks and dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Well, almost.
But despite this time-honored ritual of rebirth, series’ comings and goings have evolved into a seamless affair that flows year-round, boosted by the ever-escalating number of video outlets.
Dubbed “Peak TV,” this latter-day embarrassment of riches is noted by FX network’s president with a mixture of wonder and dismay.
Speaking to the Television Critics Association recently, John Landgraf forecast that a new peak of some 500 different scripted series would be introduced by TV outlets in 2017. Of these, he said, “only” about 150 would be offered by the six major English-language broadcasters (ABC, CW, CBS, Fox and NBC, plus PBS). The rest would emerge on cable and streaming services.
“I do this for a living, I think I have a pretty good memory, and I certainly can’t come close to keeping track of it all,” sighed Landgraf, adding, “While there’s more great television than at any time in history, audiences are having more trouble than ever distinguishing the great from the merely competent.”
Not to mention more trouble even stumbling upon shows that viewers might consider great, but instead get lost in the shuffle.
For instance, how many viewers will happen upon “StartUp,” one of the most distinctive and addictive dramas on any lineup? Starring Martin Freeman and Adam Brody in a steamy Miami mashup of techies and drug lords, it premieres Sept. 6 on Crackle, the streaming network known, (if at all), for Jerry Seinfeld’s “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.”
On MTV, where “gym, tan, laundry” was once the mantra, thanks to “Jersey Shore,” a much smarter situation awaits on “Mary + Jane” (premiering Sept. 5), a devilish comedy about two gal pals who run a marijuana delivery service in Los Angeles.
And on Hulu, where you may typically binge on “Forensic Files” reruns, you might be happy to discover Hugh Laurie in the psychological drama “Chance” (Oct. 19) as a physician perilously different from his role as life-saving Dr. House.
These new arrivals might well escape your notice in the fall onslaught. But word of other new shows is impossible to miss.
In particular, NBC leveraged its sprawling, much-watched Rio Games to beat the drum for fall newcomers like “This Is Us” and “Timeless.”
Both those series are sure to be heavily sampled by the audience. But while many viewers may embrace “This Is Us” (Sept. 20) as a tenderhearted and touching dramedy about divergent characters who have a lot in common, other viewers may dismiss the show as saccharine and labored.
And while some viewers may see “Timeless” (Oct. 3) as thrilling and eye-popping, others may dismiss this time-travel romp as clunky in concept and a misappropriation of lavish computer-generated imagery.
While ABC’s sitcom “Speechless” (Sept. 21) can congratulate itself for its special-needs focus – the family’s teenage son has cerebral palsy (as does the actor who plays him) – some viewers nonetheless may find it cartoonish and,– well, not very funny.
While Michael Weatherly is certifiably a fan-fave from his years on “NCIS,” his much-awaited new CBS drama, “Bull” (Sept. 20), seems over-reliant on his fast-talking, glib portrayal. For some viewers, his performance as a charming trial consultant gaming the legal system may quickly wear thin.
And while “Notorious” (Sept. 22) will plant its flag in the Shonda Rimes-ruled landscape of ABC’s Thursday lineup, this dismal poppycock (a hunky defense attorney joins forces with a hot TV producer to promote their respective professional interests) may succeed primarily by exposing how hard it is to pull off what Rimes does so well.
None of this is to suggest that the commercial broadcast networks aren’t a party to TV’s current Golden Age. Television, almost anywhere you look, is enjoying a renaissance.
But for the most part, broadcast TV has been overtaken by its cable and streaming competition while being forced to chase conflicting goals – to please a necessarily mass audience while taking enough creative risks to not get left in the dust by its more nimble rivals.
Millions of viewers are satisfied with the results. Now, as ever, broadcast TV serves as a home for the expected, a 22-episodes-a-season respite where the viewer can feel comfortable, not challenged.
Meanwhile, surprises and creative daring greet viewers who look elsewhere – and result, sometimes, in explosive success (consider HBO’s “Game of Thrones” or AMC’s “The Walking Dead,” neither of which would have ever gained admittance by broadcast gatekeepers).
Granted, mining shows from the mountain of Peak TV can be a daunting task, especially since on niche media platforms, as with mainstream broadcast, there’s plenty of fool’s gold cluttering the view.
But if this fall season is any indication, TV’s current Golden Age is aglow – and this gold rush clearly leads toward cable and streaming. | http://www.philasun.com/entertainment/cast-wide-net-among-channels-sampling-new-fall-shows/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/dbcd177d4d90abcf444d7ff3346b4946f696967c9e5f03a7f97ee15b54356452.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:03:20 | null | 2016-08-19T16:32:53 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Flocal%2Fmen-frederick-douglass-hosts-townhall-meeting-2%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/local_08-21-16c.jpg | en | null | Men of Frederick Douglass hosts townhall meeting | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Michael Coard, Esq. (c) on panel.
Building relationships between Philadelphia police and students in the wake of the deaths of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling
Parents, teachers and students gathered together at Mastery Charter Schools’ Frederick Douglass Campus Thursday evening for a panel discussion on recent police involved shootings and what the Community could do toward improving relations with the Philadelphia Police Department. The panel featured Scott Gordon, CEO of Mastery Charter Schools; Michael Coard, defense attorney, columnist and community activist; Gail and Alfonso Glenn, parent liaisons; Garry Mills, founder of “Shoot Basketballs, Not People,” and Constance Horton, Frederick Douglass Middle School principal and Robert Warner, program manager of Philadelphia CeaseFire.
The event was organized by Dana Frye Thomson and Ashley Carmichael, co-founders of “Men of Frederick Douglass.”
Panelists were asked a series of questions, ranging from what are the misconceptions about residents of the community, to common misperceptions about the Philadelphia Police Department and how students can maintain cultural identity yet still have a positive view of law enforcement.
“Our schools are neighborhood schools that are strongly connected to the community,” said Mastery Charter School’s CEO, Scott Gordon. Gordon said Mastery Charter Schools are constantly looking for ways to advance the bond between the schools, communities and law enforcement. “As a white man, my experiences with law enforcement are very different than my students. One of the things we did at Simon Gratz was to develop a student support team that began building personal relationships with local police officers. It changed everything. Gratz is in a high crime area and when something happens that will affect the school, students are now willing to talk with police because they have personal relationships with them.”
W
hen asked what residents and teachers could do to nurture better relations between communities and police, defense attorney Michael Coard said activities at the schools are fine.
But he pointed out they’re secondary. Stigmas, barriers and misperceptions on both sides won’t change quickly and the strategy to foster those changes doesn’t exist, yet.
“What has to be done has to be created because right now it doesn’t exist,” Coard said. “Yes, there’s Internal Affairs and the Police Advisory Commission. However, the Advisory Commission has no subpoena powers. What has to happen is that teachers and students have to learn how to influence the legislature. For that to happen, teachers have to be more than just nine-to-five employees. The only way for things to change is for the community to empower itself and come up with innovative strategies.”
Jinnely Davidson, Assistant Principal of School Culture said town hall discussions are critical to building healthier relationships between the community members and the police.
“We need a space in which we can bring healing to the community which is so desperately needed. We need to provide an opportunity so that we can begin to humanize our police officers and view them as vital stakeholders in our community,” Davidson said. “This is something that I, Dana Frye-Thompson Ashley Carmichael, co-founders of Men of Frederick Douglass are committed to continuing throughout the year. This will continue on the first day of school, where we are asking community members and police officers to welcome and greet our students on their first day of school on August 22nd. We recognize that the first day of school can produce anxiety and stress for teachers, students, and parents. We want to combat those feelings, and have our first day of school be one of joy and building a sense of pride. In the near future, the school will be hosting similar meetings to foster continued conversations between police and the communities they serve.” | http://www.philasun.com/local/men-frederick-douglass-hosts-townhall-meeting-2/ | en | 2016-08-19T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/b564e6d3aaede80007c0df07d9601b0f5bd0fbd8aaa743926788972a91c83eea.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-29T14:51:14 | null | 2016-08-29T09:23:37 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fweek-in-review%2Fnyc-remembers-dark-chapter-crown-heights-race-riot%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/wk-rev_08-28-16b.jpg | en | null | NYC remembers dark chapter of Crown Heights race riot | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: In this 1991 file photo, New York City Police Department officers scuffle with a protester during a march through the Crown Heights section of the Brooklyn borough of New York. A plan to mark the 25th anniversary of the Crown Heights riot with a family-friendly street festival has drawn criticism from the brother of a rabbinical student who suffered a fatal knife wound during the unrest. Organizers say the idea of the festival is to foster a sense of unity in the neighborhood. (AP Photo/Joe Major, File)
By Michael Balsamo
ASSOCIATED PRESS
NEW YORK — Twenty-five years after race riots scarred a New York City neighborhood, residents of Crown Heights gathered Sunday to mark the quarter-century anniversary with a memorial service, march, and street festival that organizers said showed how far the community had come. Critics, however, condemned the events as insensitive.
About three dozen people gathered for a series of commemorative events, held as part of “One Crown Heights,” which organizers said was a way to bring children of different backgrounds together and acknowledge years of efforts to foster better communication and relations between ethnic groups in the Brooklyn neighborhood.
In August 1991, a riot broke out in the Brooklyn area after 7-year-old Gavin Cato was struck and killed by a car in a rabbi’s motorcade. Hours later, a Jewish doctoral student, Yankel Rosenbaum, was stabbed to death. Four days of violence followed.
“We will not allow ourselves to be defined by what happened 25 years ago,” Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams said to the predominantly white crowd at a memorial service Sunday morning to remember Cato and Rosenbaum. Elected officials joined Cato’s father and African-American and Jewish community leaders for the service.
As he held a candle lit in his son’s memory, Cato’s father, Carmel Cato, told reporters that the service “showed the love and that the community is back together.”
“We cannot rewrite history,” Rabbi Joseph Potasnik said. “A young man was killed for who he was – because he was a Jew.”
Rosenbaum’s brother, Norman, did not attend the anniversary events Sunday. He has said a street fair is “insensitive” and a “trivialization of a very, very serious period of time, of a series of incidents culminating in my brother’s murder.”
Devorah Halberstam, who helped coordinate the events, said she realized “there are deep and painful memories and on this day they resurface.” But, she said, it is important to commemorate how the community has come together in the past two decades.
“Twenty five years ago I watched as my community was attacked by a mob chanting ‘Kill the Jews!’” said Halberstam, who identified herself as an Orthodox Jew.
After the memorial service, the group marched about four blocks to a local park, where the street festival was held. About 50 people – mainly African American families – had their faces painted, jumped in inflatable bounce houses and created unity quilts that will be displayed at a local museum.
Colin Karl Cohen, who owned a hardware store just feet from where Cato was fatally struck in 1991, recalled the “chaos” in the days of rioting that followed Cato’s and Rosenbaum’s deaths.
“We had young guys who wanted to take the laws in their own hands, and they did,” he said. “It’s been a rift between the community, mainly between blacks and Jews for years. But we know two wrongs don’t make a right and we have to eliminate the hatred and the dissatisfaction that some might have on both sides.”
“Today you find a more peaceful, respectful and understanding community of Crown Heights,” he said. “Anything that happens that brings Jews and Blacks and the police together is for the betterment of the community.” | http://www.philasun.com/week-in-review/nyc-remembers-dark-chapter-crown-heights-race-riot/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/7de22de1e11bee875d8be216b66a6970b0753b20aaf75db4f14f82e8e5938289.json |
[
"Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:01:34 | null | 2016-08-22T18:47:28 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Flocal%2Fsurprise-can-now-buy-wine-select-shoprite-locations%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/shoprite-of-fairless-hills-beer-garden-2.jpg | en | null | Surprise! You can now buy wine at select ShopRite locations | null | null | www.philasun.com | ShopRite now offering wine to go
By Monica Peters
Sip on this!
On Friday, ShopRite locations in Fairless Hills and Bensalem began selling wine to go.
“We have 100 top selling wine items. When we reach full variety we hope to have 500-600 items,” says Jeff Brown, Founder and CEO of Brown’s Super Stores, Inc.
Brown’s Super Stores are comprised of 11 ShopRites and two Fresh Grocer supermarkets in the Philadelphia region.
For now, customers can shop at the Fairless Hills and Bensalem locations for their preferred wine.
Popular wines for purchase include Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay and Moscato to name a few.
“It was a surprise to the customers because we weren’t sure how fast we could turn it around,” said Brown referring to their locations being among the permit requests approved by the PA Liquor Control Board.
On Aug. 15, the PA Liquor Control Board began issuing the permits to sell wine-to-go. There are now 86 businesses across the state that are approved.
“We know there is broad interest from consumers in additional access and convenience and we are happy to bring wine to those consumers across Pennsylvania,” said Elizabeth Brassell, Director of Communications for the PA Liquor Control Board.
Brown says the next two stores in the franchise to sell wine this year will be the Fresh Grocer in Wyncote which already sells beer and the East Norriton ShopRite.
In 2017, beer and wine will be added to ShopRite locations in Philadelphia.
“We have certain locations where the criteria are more easily met than others, so certain locations will come on relatively soon and others will take longer,” says Brown.
Brown is confident this will be great for ShopRite’s business overall.
“Most people I know like to pick out their wine when they decide what they are going to make for dinner. They never have been able to do that before,” said Brown.
“I think it’s far more convenient to pick out wine in your grocery store than anywhere else. I think it’s going to be popular and good for business,” he continued.
Locations that sell beer and wine also have a Brown’s Chef Market Café and beer garden where customers can sit and enjoy their meal and drink. These locations also have a daily weekday happy hour which includes live music on Wednesdays and Thursdays along with food samplings.
In case you were wondering if the requirements will be more relaxed when purchasing wine from the supermarket than from the liquor store, ShopRite is very strict about ID.
“We are the strictest place to buy adult beverages. We have a separate register. It won’t check a person out unless they scan their ID or drivers license.”
By the end of 2017, Brown hopes to have nine of their 12 locations in Pennsylvania selling beer or wine. | http://www.philasun.com/local/surprise-can-now-buy-wine-select-shoprite-locations/ | en | 2016-08-22T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/bf011bf6b272bf29e6ae24159c39b7929438df1efc7f4a3a38b24143c5044c53.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:02:31 | null | 2016-08-22T13:05:02 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Flocal%2Ftaking-it-to-the-streets%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/Hillary-Clinton-Campaign-in-West-Philadelphia-336.jpg | en | null | Taking It To The Streets | null | null | www.philasun.com | West Philadelphia High School served as a staging area for a Hillary for America voter registration drive where the canvassers got their marching orders from Philly-based hip-hop artist Freeway and Hillary Clinton herself.
By Denise Clay
As pairings between hip-hop artists and powerful White matrons go, the duo of Philadelphia-based hip-hop artist Freeway and Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton may not be as interesting as, say rapper Snoop Dogg and lifestyle maven Martha Stewart.
But the Freeway/Clinton meet up held Tuesday at West Philadelphia High School had a much more important purpose: registering voters and getting them to the polls.
Some of that motivation comes from watching people try to make ends meet on a minimum wage that doesn’t come close to covering your living expenses, Freeway said.
“We need to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour,” he said. “Right now, the minimum wage is at $7.25. If you have two people that make that amount, you only have $30,000. You can’t do anything with that. But if you raise the minimum wage to $15, and you have two people, that’s $60,000. You can start saving money and you can put aside some money to take a vacation with your family.”
But some of it is also personal. Freeway has been battling kidney failure, something that leads to his having to go through four hours of dialysis three days a week to stay alive. Because of this, he’s realized the importance of affordable health care and a living wage.
“Because I’m successful, I could afford my health care,” Freeway said. “But not everyone can. People aren’t going to the doctor because they can’t afford it. Each and every American needs their own healthcare. That’s why I’m going to hit the streets and get it popping for Hillary.”
Freeway was among the people who came out get voter registration forms and canvass the neighborhood to make sure everyone eligible to vote in the November elections is registered to do so. This is part of the Clinton campaign’s effort to get 3 million Pennsylvanians registered to vote.
To lead that effort, Clinton and a group of her Philadelphia-based allies came to the auditorium at West Philadelphia High School to rally the voter registration troops and to announce the opening of a new campaign office in Southwest Philadelphia.
One of those allies, Mayor Jim Kenney, took the audience through a journey of voting rights in America that started with Octavius Catto, a Philadelphia-based civil rights leader who was shot in the back trying to register Black voters, to the Civil Rights Movement and the dogs, water cannons and police officers that stood between Blacks and the polls.
While the task ahead, which is keeping Donald Trump out of the White House, isn’t nearly that arduous, Kenney said, it’s no less important.
“We’re not asking anyone to cross the Edmund Pettus bridge,” he said. “We’re not asking that of you. We’re asking you to register. Get off your couch. Go to the schools. Go the rec centers and register people and vote because if you don’t, you disrespect the memory of those who made those sacrifices. We can be the difference in this election if we do what we’re supposed to do, which is register and vote.”
Clinton made the same plea when she took to the stage. For her to make history by becoming the nation’s first woman in the White House, Pennsylvania, and by extension Philadelphia, has to make sure its voice is heard, she said.
“We have places to register because we don’t want you on the sidelines come November,” Clinton said. “This is the most consequential election. The stakes could not be higher. And we want everybody in Philadelphia, everybody across Pennsylvania, to be part of a great victory in November and then the future that we’re going to build together.”
Clinton went on to talk about her vision of an America that includes infrastructure investment, jobs in clean energy, and investments in education from pre-school to adult education. It’s a vision that she hopes to pay for by going where the money is.
“I’ll tell you how we’re going to pay for it,” she said. “We’re going after the super wealthy. We’re going after the corporations. We’re going after Wall Street so they pay their fair share.”
She also castigated Trump’s tax plan, a plan that would cut tax rates for the wealthy in half and do nothing for Pennsylvanians, Clinton said.
“I was so surprised when Donald Trump came out and talked about the economy because, actually, he would give trillions of dollars in more tax breaks to the wealthy,” she said. “He wants a new tax loophole that we call the Trump loophole that would actually help him and everybody else who is really wealthy to cut their tax rate in half on a lot of their income. He wants to eliminate the estate tax, which does nothing for 99.8 percent of all Americans, but if Trump is as wealthy as he claims to be, it would save his family $4 billion.”
“Now, I’ve got to tell you,” Clinton continued, “I could find a much better use for that $4 billion; early childhood, helping our veterans, helping our law enforcement do what they need to do, helping more people get the jobs training and the skills training. In fact, we could hire 95,000 public school teachers for $4 billion. We could actually double health care for our veterans for $4 billion. And we could invest in more infrastructure, affordable housing, and small businesses for $4 billion right here in Pennsylvania.”
To be eligible to vote in the November general elections, the deadline to register to vote in Pennsylvania is Oct. 11. | http://www.philasun.com/local/taking-it-to-the-streets/ | en | 2016-08-22T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/3299fb8dbf172c74eaff37f94e6a0d74fded050223a84391de17ef5d65a91ce5.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:00:13 | null | 2016-08-19T21:18:31 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fweek-in-review%2Fpa-attorney-general-kathleen-kane-resigns%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/wk-rev_08-21-16a.jpg | en | null | PA Attorney General Kathleen Kane resigns | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane enters a courtroom at the Montgomery County Courthouse, Monday, Aug. 15, 2016, in Norristown, Pa., where closing arguments are expected during her perjury and obstruction trial. (Jessica Griffin/The Philadelphia Inquirer via AP, Pool)
By Marc Levy
associated press
HARRISBURG, Pa — Kathleen Kane, Pennsylvania’s first elected female attorney general, announced her resignation Tuesday, a day after being convicted of abusing the powers of the state’s top law enforcement office to smear a rival and lying under oath to cover it up. Kane’s exit completes a spectacular fall for the former county prosecutor, who soared to victory four years ago as an outsider who promised to break up an “old-boy’s” network in state government. But she squandered her early popularity, feuded with rivals and aides, and ultimately was undone by what prosecutors portrayed as a personal vendetta for her critics and perceived enemies.
Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf, who first called for Kane, also a Democrat to resign when she was charged a year ago, said in a statement shortly after the verdict that Kane needed “to do what is right.”
“As I have made clear, I do not believe Kathleen Kane should be Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I believed this when she was charged, and today, after conviction, there should be no question that she should resign immediately,” Wolf said.
Kane’s lawyers vowed to appeal the case. Kane is not running for a second term in office, and she was not required to resign immediately. She could have potentially stayed in office until Jan. 17, when a new attorney general selected by voters in November will be sworn in.
But if Kane had not resigned, the state Senate’s Republican majority leaders threatened a vote to order her removal from office under a constitutional provision never used in modern history. A prior vote in February narrowly failed as all but one of Kane’s fellow Democrats stood by her.
In a statement, House Majority Leader Dave Reed, R-Indiana, said Pennsylvania needs a functional attorney general and cannot have a top prosecutor who is convicted of “breaking the laws she was elected to enforce.”
Kane’s top deputy, Bruce L. Castor Jr., planned a news conference for Tuesday afternoon to address questions about the office. A spokesman would say only that Kane was “spending time today conferring with senior staff.”
Kane, 50, was the first woman and first Democrat elected to the office, winning a landslide election in 2012 that vaulted her to rising-star status from obscurity as a former Lackawanna County staff prosecutor.
On Monday night, a Montgomery County jury convicted Kane of all nine counts against her, including perjury, obstruction and official oppression.
The conviction capped two years of turmoil in Kane’s office that has left her isolated in Pennsylvania’s political, legal and law enforcement community. The state Supreme Court suspended her law license, and she has drained campaign funds to pay legal bills.
After hearing days of testimony about petty feuds, political intrigue and “cloak-and-dagger” machinations, Judge Wendy Demchick-Alloy called Kane a flight risk and ordered her to surrender her passport. She also threatened to jail Kane if she retaliated against the once-trusted aides who testified against her.
Kane showed little emotion as the verdict was announced. She did not testify in her own defense, and she left the courthouse without commenting.
Kane’s honeymoon as attorney general ended in March 2014, when The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that she had shut down an undercover sting that had caught a Philadelphia judge and five state lawmakers taking cash payments or gifts.
Suspecting a former state prosecutor leaked the story to the Inquirer, Kane sought payback and ordered aides to leak secret investigative information to the Philadelphia Daily News designed to show that that prosecutor had never filed charges in a 2009 probe into a Philadelphia NAACP official, prosecutors said.
The NAACP official, who was never charged, was smeared in the process, authorities said.
A Kane defense lawyer told the jury that key witnesses would “say whatever they need to in order to protect themselves.” Kane’s lawyers also complained that the judge had not allowed them to argue in court that the investigation had been propelled by former state prosecutors worried that Kane would reveal their raunchy, pornographic interoffice emails she had discovered on the office’s services.
“We have been denied the opportunity to mount a full defense,” defense lawyer Gerald Shargel said.
Perjury, the only felony charged, can bring up to seven years in prison. The misdemeanor charges include conspiracy, official oppression and false swearing. | http://www.philasun.com/week-in-review/pa-attorney-general-kathleen-kane-resigns/ | en | 2016-08-19T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/dddb3a9bd6966d65e19d3ec057dfa9d8db760f3a6342c59d2bac9b82a2725d25.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T12:55:54 | null | 2015-05-09T22:25:41 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fentertainment%2Fbridget-ramsey-encourages-all-music-lovers-to-b-eclectic%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2015/05/enter_05-10-15e.jpg | en | null | Bridget Ramsey-encourages all music lovers to ‘B Eclectic’ | null | null | www.philasun.com | By Kendall Alexander
The tiny room in Le’tage made for a cozy and vibrant scene as musicians, visual artists, and music enthusiasts packed the venue on April 15th to celebrate up and coming musician Bridget Ramsey is EP “B Eclectic.” Bridget and her father, University of Pennsylvania professor and jazz musician Guthrie (Guy) Ramsey talked about her childhood, her musical influences, and growing as a jazz musician’s daughter, between jam sessions and video presentations. Through their songs, both artists took control of the stage and demanded the attention of the audience.
A Philadelphia native, Bridget moved to Atlanta and attended Spelman College where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Music. At 26, the songstress with an impressive vocal range and jazzy intonations. The listening party covered all the bases for the young artist, as she had “Hold Your Head Up” and the catchy tune “Please Dont” playing over the speakers when she was not performing, as well as videos “Fever” and “Beautiful Black,” a song by her group Uncensored Soul. Her live set list featured the ballad “Save Your Love for Me,” “Wildest Gal,” and “Happy Talk” with an encore performance of a fantastic mash-up of Chaka Khan’s “Ain’t Nobody” and Gnarles Barkley’s “Crazy.”
The messages of many of the songs are not just about relationships but also about inner love and self-respect, they just happen to swing with a light jazzy, neo-soul vibe that makes one nod their head in approval while simultaneously soaking in the lyrics.
Bridget shared the songs she has composed for her debut, as well as accompanying videos, highlighting the romance of Philadelphia. Using spoken word artists and various sounds in her music give true meaning to “B Eclectic.”
With a sound that may remind some of Jill Scott with a dash of Minnie Riperton and Sarah Vaughn, the ease and grace she has as she slides up and down in range makes her seem comfortable and fluent in her natural abilities. In other words, the woman can ‘sang’ and is sure to be a rising star in Philadelphia and beyond. Make sure to be on the lookout for Bridget Ramsey’s upcoming EP “B Eclectic” and keep up with her on Facebook (Bridget Ramsey) and at bridgetramseymusic.com. | http://www.philasun.com/entertainment/bridget-ramsey-encourages-all-music-lovers-to-b-eclectic/ | en | 2015-05-09T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/749cf3b8c7636bc06b53f9a0414e775865ce7eb10e0cd92a33fbd6dc01969080.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-29T16:51:40 | null | 2016-08-29T10:42:04 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fentertainment%2Fhulu-shuts-free-service-amos-n-andy-anatomy-controversy-still-free-watch%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/enter_08-28-16d.jpg | en | null | As Hulu shuts down its free service, “Amos N Andy’: Anatomy of a Controversy’ is still free to watch | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Alvin Childress and Spencer Williams
SHADOWANDACT.com
Announced about a week ago, Hulu, the popular streaming service, has shut down its free, ad-supported option for good, as it continues to compete with the likes of Netflix and Amazon – both of them strictly subscription models.
So what are your options if you’ve long been using Hulu’s free service? There’s the $7.99/month plan, which includes some commercials; and there’s an $11.99/month plan, which is completely ad-free. I am an $11.99/month subscriber because I’d rather watch without the commercials – just as is the case with Netflix and Amazon Video.
Since the news of the free service shut down, I’ve been digging through Hulu’s offerings for any titles that may be of interest to readers of this blog, that can be shared in the meantime, before the freebies are completely gone… like this one.
It’s documentary about the once popular, yet highly controversial radio show (originally created, written, and voiced by two white actors) and eventual TV series on CBS, “Amos ‘n’ Andy” (played by Alvin Childress and Spencer Williams).
CBS eventually took the series off the air in 1953 due to fervent protests from civil rights groups at the time; although it continued in syndicated reruns from 1954 until 1966.
In this 1983 48-minute documentary, titled, “Amos ‘n’ Andy: Anatomy of a Controversy,” viewers are given a history of the franchise, from its radio days, to the CBS series, and features interviews with then-surviving cast members.
It condenses the who, what, where, when, how and why of it all… It certainly could be much more extensive and thorough, but it’s a start – especially if you’re unfamiliar with “Amos ‘n’ Andy.” | http://www.philasun.com/entertainment/hulu-shuts-free-service-amos-n-andy-anatomy-controversy-still-free-watch/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/d7943d87012527ecac1c13c0aa76a2f8b3214025dbd2b150e00600c5b359f36a.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:02:55 | null | 2016-08-22T14:38:45 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fentertainment%2Ftika-sumpter-stars-first-lady-michelle-obama-southside%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/southside-with-you2.0.jpg | en | null | Tika Sumpter stars as First Lady Michelle Obama in "Southside with You" | null | null | www.philasun.com | By Kharisma McIlwaine
The love story of President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama is one that America has thoroughly enjoyed watching during the couple’s time in The White House. The affection, playful interaction, and the support they show one another is heartwarming.
Director (and New Jersey native) Richard Tanne took on the task of showing an in-depth look at the first couple’s love in the film “Southside with You”.
Casting the First couple comes with a great deal of pressure and Tanne made an extraordinary choice in choosing Tika Sumpter as the First Lady.
“Southside with You” tells the story of the Obamas love at the point where it all began: their first date. From the beginning, Sumpter said, she was all-in with Tanne and his vision.
“I was given the synopsis and told that this director wanted me to play the First Lady,” she said. “Then I read the script, and said, “Wow! I love this perspective. I love this love story and I wanted to be in it. We met in LA, we talked, and he expressed his vision so clear. I was on board right away. I mean the script wasn’t even written!”
The entire film takes place in one day, a feat not easily accomplished, but Sumpter attributes the accomplishment to Tanne’s screenplay.
“It was so well-written that it could be done in one day,” she said. “Some people said, ‘I wish it was longer! What happens next?!’ That’s what you want… you want people to want more.”
“I love the fact that it’s so layered and it all happened in a day,” Sumpter continued. “The conversations they had were amazing, the changes that happened within themselves, and there were topics that were brought up that were touchy, that was cool too. I have to say Richard Tanne hit it out of the ballpark with the writing. In addition to a layered storyline, art [specifically the art of Ernie Barnes] contributed another dimension to the narrative. The art is the introduction to depth and a side of Michelle Obama that most of us probably didn’t know about.”
Preparing for a role of this magnitude requires a great deal of research and Sumpter did a lot of reading in order to become the First Lady on the big screen.
“Richard Tanne helped me with a bunch of books,” she said. “I read Invisible Man for the first time. The book that really helped me was her brother Craig Robinson’s book, “A Game of Character: A Family Journey from Chicago’s Southside to the Ivy League and Beyond.” It really describes his younger sister, who she was, who their family was, how they grew up, what it was like in their household. It gave me a feeling.”
“She enunciates everything. Her hand gestures, when she puts her hand to her heart, it meant something to her. So I wanted to incorporate that stuff, but I think our main goal, was to embody the essence but not imitate,” Sumpter said.
In addition to portraying the First Lady in “Southside with You”, Sumpter is also a producer on the film. She’s hoping that this part of her participation in the film will serve as an inspiration for others in the same way that Michelle Obama has served as one of her inspirations.
“My role as a producer, is to inspire other people to say, you can control your own destiny. With some hard work you’ll get there… You’re in control,” Sumpter said. “Especially for women out there, this is an inspiration to me. [Michelle Obama] is an inspiration for me, and I think to everybody. I hope people get to enjoy being a fly on the wall. It’s a walk and talk movie about courtship, friendship, love, first dates, jitters and being vulnerable.”
“Southside with You” opens nationwide on Friday August 26th. Check your local listings for show times. | http://www.philasun.com/entertainment/tika-sumpter-stars-first-lady-michelle-obama-southside/ | en | 2016-08-22T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/7eb4e2d80be96ef6a2168e69a50f40a14dc13f5f8930a4d368dcb49f007b7155.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:48:50 | null | 2016-08-26T08:48:00 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fcontests%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2014/10/addicted_20141.jpg | en | null | The Philadelphia Sunday Sun | null | null | www.philasun.com | Lovejones the Musical Signup for contest * indicates required Email Address * First Name Last Name
Win FREE tickets to see Ledisi and Keith Sweat Signup for contest * indicates required Email Address * First Name Last Name
Win FREE tickets to see Heroin Signup for contest * indicates required Email Address * First Name Last Name
Win FREE tickets to see Spice Wurld Signup for contest * indicates required Email Address * First Name Last Name
Win FREE tickets to see Al De Meola Signup for contest * indicates required Email Address * First Name Last Name
Win FREE tickets to see Lauryn Hill Signup for contest * indicates required Email Address * First Name Last Name
Win FREE tickets to see Aries Spears Signup for contest * indicates required Email Address * First Name Last Name
Win FREE tickets to see Sinbad Signup for contest * indicates required Email Address * First Name Last Name | http://www.philasun.com/contests/ | en | 2016-08-26T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/a06c1bebed15db6c691f9ce9fc59d91145b67b273f326b9404e173f88b707cf8.json |
[
"Felicia Mcguffie"
] | 2016-08-26T12:57:47 | null | 2014-12-14T08:18:10 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fcommentary%2Ffall-back-sharpton-time-for-the-youth-to-lead%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2014/12/comment_12-14-14a.jpg | en | null | Fall back Sharpton-Time for the youth to lead | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Rev. Al Sharpton Leads March, rally over Eric Garner’s death on Staten Island. Gerard Flynn, (Photo: Flickr Creative Commons)
By Denise Clay
Thanks to the decisions by grand juries in Ferguson, Mo., and New York City, the Rev. Al Sharpton has put his marching shoes on.
He wants to clog the streets of Washington, D.C., on Dec. 13 to protest the decisions that left former Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson and New York City Police Officer Daniel Panteleo unpunished for the shooting death of Michael Brown and the choking death of Eric Garner, respectively.
Don’t get me wrong. I like a good march as much as the next person. Gives me a chance to exercise and see folks that I only see when covering a march.
But Rev. Sharpton ain’t the guy to do it.
I’m not saying that because I don’t like Rev. Sharpton, or because I suddenly agree with the folks on Fox News who are stupid enough to think that he’s a racist because he points out racism.
I’m saying it because it’s time for Rev. Sharpton, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, and anyone else who is on a first name basis with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King or Malcolm X to do something that they haven’t been willing to do.
Fall back.
Why Sharpton must let youth lead
Now I can already see some of you sucking your teeth and giving me the side-eye on this, but hear me out.
I have nothing but love and respect for the folks my age–which is 50–and older who have blazed the trail of the Civil Rights Movement. I totally understand that without their work, I wouldn’t have the ability to write this column.
I also understand that they went through a lot to get us here. They still have the dog bite scars. The dents from being hit with high-pressure water hoses. The memories of those who went to Freedom Summer and didn’t come home or who crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge and can still smell their own blood as it ran down their forehead after being beaten.
Those sacrifices give you a permanent place at the table…and it’s deserved.
But the fight has changed, and because it’s changed, it needs new leaders.
There are three things that the current “How To Get Away With Murder” relationship between unarmed black men and the police have exposed about Civil Rights organizations.
Needed changes in civil rights organizations
The first is that there are no succession plans, or the ones that are in place aren’t being implemented. Most of the time, organizations are replacing longtime presidents with people in that same age group, something that alienates the youth. Or worse, they bring in someone young, and won’t let them make any changes.
Probably the best example that I can come up with of this is Benjamin Jealous’s tenure as President of the National NAACP. When he took the job, I was hopeful because here was someone who was able to recognize what the modern Civil Rights movement looked like and had ideas to try and move the organization forward.
He left. The scuttlebutt was that he got tired of fighting with a board that wanted to sing “We Shall Overcome” from the hymnal owned by W.E.B. DuBois.
The second thing that appears to have been exposed is how disconnected young blacks are from the people who have been traditionally designated as their leaders.
When Rev. Jackson came to Ferguson, he was booed. At a meeting at the White House with some activists from Ferguson, many took to Twitter to express dismay at the way Rev. Sharpton treated them, not speaking with them, but taking credit for their work.
The last thing that it’s exposed is the lack of confidence we have in our youth.
The youth are leading already
When I brought up the whole idea of Old Heads ceding the floor to the youth and allowing them to lead, the two things I heard the most were: They don’t know what they’re doing, and; they don’t really want to lead.
The reaction to the events of Ferguson and New York shows that they do want to lead, because everything that’s gone on has been youth driven.
Young people are organizing the “die-ins” like the one held at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday. They’re organizing the #NotOneDime and #BlackOutFriday protests and economic boycotts. They’re the ones on Twitter and Facebook getting their peers together to shut down the highways, fill up the public squares, and disrupt the public events so that the message of, “We’ve had about enough of this and we’re not going to take it anymore!” gets through.
They’re handling their business.
As for the idea that the youth don’t know what they’re doing, well, we have only ourselves to blame for that. If our youth don’t know how to lead, it’s because we didn’t show them how, and we need to correct that.
It’s time for the youth to step up and take their rightful place at the head of the movement … and it’s time that we allow it to happen.
But that doesn’t mean there’s no place for us Old Heads, because there is.
What the Old Heads need to do
We need to be there to encourage the youth as they handle their business.
We need to be willing to use our contacts to help them connect to people who will help them get things moving. We should also be around to break a foot off in someone’s behind when its needed.
Since we have experience in strategy and organizing, let’s teach the youth. Since we have more money and more contacts to raise funds, let’s utilize that.
These kids are going to get arrested at some point. Let’s make sure that we have a group of pro-bono attorneys at the ready to get ‘em out.
We should be showing them our support because, let’s face it … the youth are more likely than all of us Old Heads to be on the other side of that gun, or that chokehold, or that prison cell.
Now I get why Rev. Al wants to march. We have a criminal justice system that will give you six years for killing an elk, but will let a police officer kill an unarmed man without consequence in most cases. Something needs to be said about that.
But what Sharpton is missing here is that attention to these issues has already been brought.
Temple Owls and Penn Quakers have brought it. Morgan State Bears have brought it. Michigan State Spartans and Howard Bisons have brought it. Columbia Lions have brought it.
New Yorkers brought it to the Christmas Tree lighting in Rockefeller Center on Wednesday night.
Youth all around the country have brought it. You don’t need to.
So instead of organizing a march, Rev. Al, why not bring these kids on your show and show them the support they need to keep going?
The children are trying to lead us. It’s their turn.
Stop blocking them…
Denise Clay is a veteran journalist, a former adjunct professor, and an active member of the National Association of Black Journalists. She is a regular contributor to Solomonjones.com. | http://www.philasun.com/commentary/fall-back-sharpton-time-for-the-youth-to-lead/ | en | 2014-12-14T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/406022b105cdf1b4c9a7c988be3713d6fa450d451ab187203ca3f03d213aac2c.json |
[
"Kiarra Solomon"
] | 2016-08-26T12:54:56 | null | 2015-02-14T22:25:57 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Flocal%2Flaunch-business-tips-serial-entrepreneur%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2015/02/in-philly_02-15-15a.jpg | en | null | How to launch your own business, tips from a serial entrepreneur | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Nikki Purvy
By Kiarra Solomon
@By_Kiarra
If you’re thinking about starting a business, you may be a little nervous. Starting a business is a big step and ITS success is solely dependent on you. It’s no longer about having a great idea, now it’s about monetizing that idea. There’s a lot of advice out there for entrepreneurs, but the best advice will come from those who have experience in what you are trying to do.
Nikki Purvy is a self-described serial entrepreneur. She’s started several companies in the past decade and even worked as an institutional bond trader. Four years ago, she founded her latest company, Lidyr Creative Marketing Agency, which provides graphic design, web design, social media marketing and search engine optimization. Her client list includes Comcast, The Mike Vick Foundation, Ming Lee (owner of Snob Life) and Premier Luxury Rentals, to name a few.
Through working with so many startups (as well as launching a few businesses of her own), Purvy has decided to begin offering another service for her clients, business development.
“We meet so many business owners, most of them during their start-up phase, and we started to notice trends. We also became a sort of advisor to some of these business owners, helping them succeed.”
Purvy says there are five things every small business owner should do before launching their business.
1. Find Your Niche. Whatever industry you’re in you need to niche down as much as possible. This will enable you to communicate better with your target market, which will make your brand stronger, and ultimately, make more money.
2. Develop your elevator pitch. Your elevator pitch should be a two or three sentence explanation of your business and your brand. You need to be able to explain your business in layman’s terms. If people can’t understand what your business is or what it does, they will be leary of doing business with you. Why would they do business with you if they don’t understand what you?
3. Invest in a good website. Your website the personal billboard for your business. Your potential customers will judge your business acumen based on your website. Many times chosing website can be the deciding factor between you and your competitor for a client.
4. Do your research. You should do as much research as possible. Is your business going to serve an existing market or is will it just be feeding into your hobby? For example, you may have an interest in green finger nail polish, and want to start a business selling it. But if there isn’t a market for green finger nail polish, it won’t be successful. If no one is in the market for whatever it is you’re selling, you won’t make money.
5. Be committed. Commitment separates the successful businesses from the unsuccessful. You are going to have bad times. You have to be committed to your business in order to see the fruit of your work.
“The number one businesses fail is fear. Subconsciously, people create reasons they can’t be successful, like ‘I don’t have enough time’ or ‘I don’t have enough money to do it.’ So they don’t do it, which ends up being the reason why the business fails. You have to really overcome any fears that you may have about starting your business”, says Purvy
“If I had to create an entrepreneur toolkit, it would be a series of questions. These are the questions that every entrepreneur should ask themselves. The answers will probably evolve over time, but you should have a very clear answers to each of them at all times.”
Entrepreneurs Toolkit of Questions
1. Who is your target audience? Describe them clearly. What problem are you solving.
2. Your elevator speech should answer who, what, when, where, why, and how. It should also be well-rehearsed, clearly defined and you should say it with confidence.
3. What does your day of success look like? Define your goal, and your day of success. How many clients, how much money, etc.? Take that goal and multiply it by 10, and then determine what clear actions you can take today to achieve that goal.
4. How can you refine your discipline in your everyday life to get you to your goal? Should you be saving more money? Investing more money in your business? What can you do to get closer to your gaol?
“At the end of the day, your success will be dependent upon the daily actions that you take to reach your goal. There isn’t one component that anyone can point to that will make your business successful. But your success is based on your daily actions, and how well you have defined your product and target market.”
Nikki Purvy the Lidyr Creative Marketing Agency and their services, please visit www.Lidyr.com. You can also connect with Lidyr on social media at @LidyrCreative on Instagram and Twitter and www.Facebook.com/LidyrCreative. | http://www.philasun.com/local/launch-business-tips-serial-entrepreneur/ | en | 2015-02-14T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/6c6b06371ff6827e852e0058c1f73380604b3494eb3ca3402999b0c8e4bee0f1.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-29T16:51:53 | null | 2016-08-29T10:43:17 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fentertainment%2Fupcoming-idris-elba-three-part-docu-series-will-see-train-become-professional-kickboxer%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/enter_08-28-16c.jpg | en | null | Upcoming Idris Elba three-part docu-series will see him train to become a professional kickboxer | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: British actor Idris Elba, left, listens to Emilio Correa, a boxer with the Cuban National team at the Rafael Trejo boxing gym in the Old Havana section of Havana. The session is part of the Discovery Network show Fighter. Elba is getting ready for his first kick boxing fight which will take place in October of this year. (Photo by Angel Valentin)
shadow and act
Continuing his relationship with Discovery Networks UK, Idris Elba will move from pushing his body, mind and engineering know-how to the limit for the four-part series “Idris Elba: No Limits” (which aired earlier this year), to pushing mostly his body and mind in a new limited series titled “Idris Elba: Fighter” – a three-part docu-series that will see him undertake the physically and mentally demanding task of training to become a professional kickboxer. Elba will eventually take on a seasoned fighter in a no-holds-barred bout.
The Hollywood superstar crossed multiple continents for the series, filming in the UK, Cuba, Japan, South Africa and Thailand. He is also producing via his company Green Door Pictures, with an early 2017 air date eyed in both the UK and the USA on the Discovery Channel.
“It has been a lifelong ambition of mine to fight professionally. Entering the ring to further test myself as a human being is a challenge I have been looking to take on for quite some time,” Elba said in a press statement.
The intimate series will follow Elba as he receives mentoring from former world champions, trainers and coaches, then travels the world to incorporate unorthodox training methods and regimens to increase his chances for the main event.
His previous adventure, which aired last month, followed the actor as he immersed himself in rally driving, street racing, aerobatics and power boating to master not only the discipline of racing, but also the engineering, science and history behind it. He joined professional teams, took on seemingly impossible challenges, received coaching by some of the world’s leading drivers and pilots and meet fellow speed freaks to share their secrets.
“I’m taking on the toughest… challenges of my life for this new Discovery TV series. The extreme challenges take me right out of my comfort zone as I compete against the best…,” Elba said.
The ultimate fight that he’s training for will take place in October of this year.
“Idris Elba: Fighter” is a Discovery Networks UK commission. It is produced by Shine North and Idris Elba’s production company Green Door Pictures. | http://www.philasun.com/entertainment/upcoming-idris-elba-three-part-docu-series-will-see-train-become-professional-kickboxer/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/ec3028f5483d42130a245da63765fe7f7c093fa1613faf9ec1426417dff521ef.json |
[
"Felicia Mcguffie"
] | 2016-08-26T12:56:22 | null | 2014-11-29T21:53:40 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Flocal%2Fmemories-of-old-school-black-book-stores%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2014/11/lit-lounge_11-30-14a.jpg | en | null | Memories of Old School Black Book Stores | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Wesley Bryant of North Philadelphia in Erie Avenue’s Black and Nobel Bookstore. (Photo by Robert Mendelsohn)
By Karen E. Quinones Miller
I grew up in Harlem, and one of the fondest memories I had growing up was my father taking my twin sister and I to 125th Street to a large store with a bunch of crazy signs and posters outside. Signs like “Repatriation Headquarters – Back to Africa Movement – Recruiting – Register Here!” Posters like “Get Away Jordan. Let Gods Chullon By.”
To my little 4-year-old mind there seemed to be a million books in the store, but it wasn’t until much later that I realized it was actually a bookstore. A pretty well-known bookstore, at that. – The famous Michaux Bookstore, frequented by the likes of Malcolm X, and Eldridge Cleaver.
But if you had asked me back then, I would have said it was a place for my father to hangout and talk to a bunch of guys about politics, history, and about Crayola having a crayon called “Flesh” that didn’t look like our flesh at all.
When I moved to Philadelphia, I was ecstatic to find there were other bookstores like that here. Bookstores like Hakim’s Bookstore on 52nd Street, where the owner, Dawud Hakim, would sit and talk to teens about respect, and self-awareness, and made sure that they all knew who Carter G. Woodson (“He’s the man who lobbied for the schools to teach you all Black History”), W.E.B. DuBois was (“He was a great man who went to Harvard, and helped start the NAACP.”), and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. were (“I don’t even want to hear you not knowing about him.”)
Hakim also made sure that the parents of those children, knew about the Countering the Conspiracy to Destroy Black Boys series written by Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu when they came to his store. He’d talk to them for a few minutes – or a few hours, if they had the time – and then he’d go into the back of the store and do their taxes if was needed.
Hakim understood what most proprietors of African-American bookstores understood – the vital need in the African-American bookstores fulfilled a vital need in the African-American community.
“There was a little tiny black bookstore in the Gallery that I used to go to all the time, when I was a teenager,” said Rosalyn McDaniel, an attorney who lives Mt. Airy. “I never knew what I wanted, but that was okay, because the woman who owned the store must have been psychic or something. The first book she recommended to me was Flyy Girl by Omar Tyree, and I remember she was also the one who turned me onto Diane McKinney.”
Basic Black Books was the name of the store, and the owners were not only helpful to readers, but to authors, also.
I self-published my first novel, “Satin Doll,” in 1999 and as any self-published author will tell you – if you want to sell, you’ve got to get on bookshelves. But the problem was it darn near impossible at that time to get into a chain store unless you had a major publisher behind you, or you already had a proven sales record. But, of course, it’s hard to get a sales record if stores won’t carry your books.
I remember walking into Basic Black Books and introducing myself to Lecia Warner Bickerstaff, who owned the store with her husband, Joel. I had 10 copies of Satin Doll with me, and Lecia said she’d take five and see how they sold before ordering more. Two days later I got a call from her. She’d read “Satin Doll,” loved it, and wanted more copies.
PHOTO: Dawud Hakim, owner of Hakim’s Bookstore, in a picture taken in the 1970s. (Photo by Yvonne Blake)
“I’ve been telling all of my customers about it. Can you bring me 15 more?” she said.
Well, she kept on recommending it; and within three months Basic Black Books had sold more than 300 copies of my debut novel. And it was because of them, and other African-American bookstores that my books are now carried in major chain stores nationwide as well as on Amazon.com
But I wasn’t the only author helped by African-American bookstores.
“There’s probably not any self-published author who made it to a major publisher who didn’t do it without the help of the black bookstores,” said Linda Duggins, director of publicity for Grand Central Publishing.
Many people may not remember, but New York Times bestselling authors like E. Lynn Harris, Omar Tyree, and Kimberla Lawson Roby all self-published their first books.
“It was the black bookstores that got them the recognition to be known throughout the country,” said Duggins. “It was through their efforts that we were all introduced to these authors.”
Basic Black Books is no longer in the Gallery. It closed down in 2003, and was replaced by another African-American bookstore, Horizon Books, which closed earlier this year. Liguorius Books, which opened in the Cheltenham Mall in the mid 1970s shut their doors in 2006. Know Thyself Bookstore and Cultural Center, which was owned by poet and social activist Del Jones and Brother Deke is also a thing of the past, as is La Unique African-American Bookstore which was the only African-American owned bookstore in Camden.
But it’s not the Philadelphia area African-American bookstores that have fallen to the wayside, said Troy Johnson, creator and founder of the African-American Literature Book Club website, better known as AALBC.com.
“African-American bookstores have taken a huge hit because of the super chains like Barnes and Noble, and online superstores like Amazon.com,” said Johnson, who has been tracking African-American publishing since 1998. “Just 10 years ago there were five times as many bookstores nationwide than there are now.”
Johnson, who operates in Harlem, said most African-American bookstores could not compete with the deep discounts offered by the new competitors, and so people started shopping elsewhere.
But, the declining numbers of African-American bookstores should concern not only authors and avid readers, but the African-American community as a whole, Johnson said.
“These bookstores served not only as establishment that sold books, but also a place where conscious people could meet and discuss various matters affecting the community, and could exchange ideas,” Johnson explains. “African-American bookstores were places that facilitated deep thought and discussions. It’s a shame to see them go.”
Wesley Bryant, 67, of North Philadelphia, would agree.
“I buy all my books at African-American bookstores, and always have,” Bryant said. “I think it’s important to support black businesses, so I do.”
Bryant, who has a PhD in Social Work said even as a student he only used white-owned bookstores to get text books. When asked if the college bookstores carried African-American books, Bryant said he didn’t know.
“I never thought to ask, because I wasn’t going to buy them there,” Bryant said with a deep chuckle. “Their focus is not my focus. Never was, and never will be.”
Bryant said he now buys most of his books at Black and Nobel Bookstore, located on Erie Avenue in North Philadelphia.
Hakim Hopkins, the owner, started out as book vendor and opened his store in 2003. It’s a testament to his business acumen that while African-American bookstores all over the country have been struggling to survive, he actually expanded his store last year.
Black and Nobel stocks a variety of books – from novels to non-fiction; from street-lit to religious texts. The store, which has a strong online presence, also ships books to prisons and correctional facilities.
Black and Nobel is one of only two African-American bookstores left in Philadelphia. The other is Hakim’s Bookstore, which I mentioned much earlier in this article.
Dawud Hakim died in 1997, but one of his last wishes – according to his daughter Yvonne Blake – was that the family keep the store open as long as possible. Blake and her sister, Davita Butler, manage the store which is now open only on Fridays and Saturdays.
“My dad’s been dead for 17 years, and my sister and I fully intend to honor his wish, but it’s been hard,” said Blake, who is 63. “The unfortunate thing is that we will likely have to close in another year or so.”
Blake, who is 63, explained that her mother is extremely ill, and she and sister have are struggling to take care of her and also run the business. Sometimes they can get other family members to staff the bookstore, but not always. And there’s simply not enough money to hire full-time clerks.
“We have some very long-time customers who still come by when we’re open, but our overall customer base has dwindled significantly,” Blake said. “We can hope for a miracle, but unless one comes soon, the store will have to be closed permanently.”
Johnson, who keeps track of the opening and closing of African-American bookstores, said he is saddened by possible closure of Hakim’s Bookstore, and wished more people in the African-American community were also.
“There’s hardly any discussion about it all, and practically no coverage about the situation in the media. I get the impression that people really don’t stress themselves about it.” Johnson said in a resigned voice. “If they did care, the African-American bookstore might still be viable.” | http://www.philasun.com/local/memories-of-old-school-black-book-stores/ | en | 2014-11-29T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/f8eb97d4a2dc6c64a760665eecdcba0b5caee147b69923edb490b9e4f03256ca.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-29T14:51:09 | null | 2016-08-29T09:29:31 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Flocal%2F119th-annual-lott-carey-global-missional-community-session-held-philadelphia%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/local_08-28-16d.jpg | en | null | 119th Annual Lott Carey Global Missional Community Session held in Philadelphia | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Winners of the Fourth Annual Lott Carey International Golf Tournament. (Photo courtesy: Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church)
This year’s event — themed “Missions Matters for Justice” — addressed crucial issues in the African American community and beyond.
By Amy V. Simmons
More than 2,000 Christian missionaries came to the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown last week as part of the Lott Carey Global Missional Community’s 119th Annual Session.
Hosted by Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, home of the Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller, Lott Carey President, this year’s event focused on the theme “Missions Matters for Justice”.
The Lott Carey Global Christian Missional Community was founded in 1897 by a group of African American Baptist missionaries stationed in Africa. It was named for Baptist minister and lay physician Lott Carey, who led the first group of American Baptist missionaries into Africa in the early 1820s and went on to organize the first Baptist Church in Liberia.
The organization has since expanded its focus to become one of the foremost ecumenical and multi-cultural organizations of its kind in the world, adding advocacy on the behalf of vulnerable communities, educational programs, sustainable economic development, technological training and disaster preparedness.
Because this year’s theme focused on the connection between missions and justice, Rev. Waller’s President’s Message specifically addressed the specific demands faced by 21st-century justice advocates within the African American community overall, and within the church in particular.
Using the memories of Civil Rights pioneers who worked for justice “from the outside” making it possible for the present generation to address the civil rights and justice concerns “from the inside”, Waller talked about how the cumulative effect of economic policies that promote gentrification and underfund public education are justice issues that attack the progress made in the past.
Because of this, the church needs to become a part of the solution by getting involved and collaborating with others.
“We can’t just have a good time [in church] on Sunday morning, while young boys are shot in the street, while girls are contracting HIV and while our families are falling apart,” Waller said. “Interdisciplinary partnerships are key to our survival. Gone are the days of homogeneous answers. The tragic common realities in these yet-to-be United States requires that we work together across disciplinary lines.”
Toward that end, the Lott Carey Pastoral Excellence Network held a series of sessions entitled “Conversations Around Justice.” The first focused on “Black Lives Matter” and other justice advocacy movements, sought ways to help bridge the gap between church leaders and young civil rights activists. This was achieved through frank discussions about which current difficulties pose the greatest obstacles to justice for the African American community. The dialogue helped the participants discover common goals, and to share ideas about how they can work together in the future to bring about meaningful results.
The second session took on the current tensions around overaggressive policing, gun violence and tensions exacerbated through nonstop social media interactions and the 24/7 news cycle. The session created space for law enforcement officers and pastoral leaders to speak about these realities and to develop strategies for resolving these tensions between these officers and the African-American communities they serve.
Members of the Lott Carey International Youth Development Mission Service also participated in a service activity with “Kids Against Hunger,” a Nebraska-based organization which serves families in need here in America and around the world. The youth group helped pack food donation boxes which will provide10,000 meals for families in Haiti.
The convention concluded with the Fourth Annual Lott Carey International Golf Tournament, held Saturday morning August 19 at the Ramblewood Country Club in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey. Proceeds from this event will go towards scholarships for deserving students. | http://www.philasun.com/local/119th-annual-lott-carey-global-missional-community-session-held-philadelphia/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/dec40c55724fbc9bf0e4813be6bfb505b70832e42053032664e35bbe2af9f01d.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:00:39 | null | 2016-08-19T16:30:11 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Flocal%2Fmen-frederick-douglass-hosts-townhall-meeting%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/local_08-21-16b.jpg | en | null | Gun Lock Campaign Hot Line number available for requests | null | null | www.philasun.com | For more information contact Joseph Blake at 215-495-4174
The compelling theme of “Got a gun? Get a lock” is resonating with many people who are requesting gun locks—no questions asked—from the Office of the Sheriff of Philadelphia City & County.
“It’s great that we are getting this kind of response,” said Sheriff Jewell Williams. “The number one reason we have joined with City Council President Darrell Clarke and the District Attorney’s office is to get ANY gun in a household securely locked for safety reasons”.
Since the gun lock campaign kicked off at Temple University earlier this month, there have been several events, including a peace march in conjunction with Deliverance Evangelistic Church at 23rd & Lehigh Avenue, in which the sheriff and other elected officials literally handed out gun locks themselves.”
“It’s important that the people see leadership in a leadership role,” said Councilman Clarke recently on the “The Roundup,” the monthly radio show hosted by Sheriff Williams on WURD.
To receive a gun lock, you can either pick one up at the front desk of the sheriff’s office on the 5th Floor of 100 S. Broad street between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, or call our hotline number at 215-686-3572. Leave your name, number and address and someone from the sheriff’s office will quickly be in touch with you.
“We transport more than 500 people per day back and forth between the courts and the prisons,” said Sheriff Williams, “and many are charged with crimes involving guns. Before anger gets to a point of reaching for a gun, if that gun is in a lock, it provides at least a few seconds for an individual to change their mind about firing that weapon, and makes it almost impossible to fire if found, and handled by a child. Got a gun—get a lock”.
A bill was recently enacted by City Council entitled the “Responsibility to Avoid Possession and Discharge of Firearms by Children” act (introduced by Council President Clarke) that requires all firearms in homes with children under the age of 18 to be kept unloaded and stored in a locked container, with the ammunition in a separate locked container. The exception would be when the firearm or ammunition is in the “immediate control” of a person with a license to carry a gun. | http://www.philasun.com/local/men-frederick-douglass-hosts-townhall-meeting/ | en | 2016-08-19T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/51872fc206c7996bcfdeee454b546e603a5f6b8e5b93bff097a765ea24a80e3a.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-29T14:51:26 | null | 2016-08-29T09:26:47 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Flocal%2Fdefining-destinies-changing-world-biomedical-program-training-next-generation-leaders%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/local_08-28-16c.jpg | en | null | Defining destinies, changing the world: Biomedical program training the next generation of leaders | null | null | www.philasun.com | On August 4th, nine Community College of Philadelphia students celebrated the completion of the Biomedical Technician Training Program at The Wistar Institute on the University of Pennsylvania campus. The ceremony represents far more than a graduation: with each certificate of completion comes new employment opportunities, career connections, and the confidence that drives scientific research and innovation.
Success starts with the students, who complete the apprenticeship program over the course of two summers, gain intensive classroom and hands-on laboratory experience, and leave prepared to work as research technicians within the robust biomedical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.
“I feel proud and a little in awe right now,” said David Caref, a graduate whose mother traveled from North Carolina to attend the ceremony. Of the program he added: “It was intense, but it was worth it.”
Since the program’s inception in 2000, 130 students have received their certificates. Fifty-six of them have found full-time or part-time research assistant positions within the first year. In fact, Philadelphia-based Wistar has hired 31 of the program’s graduates.
The initiative’s success piqued the interest of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, which recently awarded The Wistar Institute a $199,385 Nontraditional Apprenticeship Grant to explore ways to expand the program and consider how to develop the novel apprenticeship program into a model that can be replicated across the state.
“This Nontraditional Apprenticeship Grant lets us explore the full potential of the program with the goal of making it more widely available,” said Dr. William Wunner, Wistar’s director of Outreach Education and Technology Training. “We can analyze how to implement, sustain and support a BTTP model for the entire region.”
The 2016 graduates are ready to harvest a field of varied science dreams. Caref eventually plans to transfer to Temple, earn a bachelor’s degree in Biology and work in a research lab, something he never would have considered previously.
Classmate Nhu Lu says the program has given her the confidence to do independent research, which will greatly help her studies at Temple University’s School of Pharmacy. Omotayo Ope, another 2016 graduate, came into the program with a bachelor’s degree in biology. During his studies, he worked at Meenhard Herlyn’s lab at Wistar, and will continue working there through the end of the year.
“I knew what I wanted to do, but until I went through the biomedical program, I didn’t understand what was required to get there, said Ope, who will now continue his education with goal of becoming a cardiologist. “ It’s extremely important for medical school that you understand how science affects patients, and this program taught me that.”
Indeed, some of the biomedical technicians have also gone on to pursue doctorate degrees and have completed board-certified physician assistant programs.
These graduates are tomorrow’s leaders, Dr. Mary Anne Celenza, dean of the College’s Division of Math, Science and Health Careers, told family members.
“Destiny is not a matter of chance but a matter of choice. The students finishing today made a choice to move in a direction that allows them to choose their own destiny in a field that has a history of changing the world.”
The BTTP provides Community College of Philadelphia students with a career path to today’s diverse and highly skilled STEM workforce,” said Dr. Dario C. Altieri, president and CEO of The Wistar Institute. “If the BTTP expanded throughout the entire region, it has the potential to have a major and long-last impact.” | http://www.philasun.com/local/defining-destinies-changing-world-biomedical-program-training-next-generation-leaders/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/dda767f872b222a1c82be8e666c2f5f686b36c809e5e07c35cd49bc924a1ca1c.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T12:58:59 | null | 2016-08-19T16:47:18 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fentertainment%2Frape-case-past-casts-pallor-birth-nation%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/enter_08-21-16f.jpg | en | null | Rape case from the past casts pallor on ‘Birth of a Nation’ | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Nate Parker (Jaguar PS / shutterstock)
By Lindsey Bahr and Jake Coyle
associated press
LOS ANGELES — A 17-year-old rape accusation– and recent reports that the female accuser who continued to be haunted by the case committed suicide in 2012– has cast a shadow over Nate Parker’s upcoming “The Birth of a Nation,” a film that was expected to be one of the year’s most important.
“The Birth of a Nation,” a drama about Nat Turner’s 1831 slave rebellion, has been pegged as an Academy Awards candidate since its award-winning debut at last January’s Sundance Film Festival, where it fetched a record $17.5 million acquisition price from Fox Searchlight.
“The Birth of a Nation,” which Parker stars in, co-wrote, co-produced and directed, is a film some believe will help sweep in a more diverse field of Oscar nominees, along with providing a breakthrough for Parker.
But after a handful of trade interviews in which Parker discussed the rape charges he faced and was then acquitted of as a student at Penn State University in 1999, Parker’s past is what’s drawing headlines well before the October release of “The Birth of a Nation.” Attention has only intensified with the news Tuesday from The Hollywood Reporter and Variety that the accuser, who was not named, killed herself in 2012 at the age of 30 after a few prior attempts that same year, according to court documents.
Late Tuesday, Parker posted an essay on his Facebook page in response to the latest developments.
“I myself just learned that the young woman ended her own life several years ago and I am filled with profound sorrow,” Parker wrote. “I can’t tell you how hard it is to hear this news. I can’t help but think of all the implications this has for her family.”
The woman’s family issued a statement to the New York Times Tuesday as well noting that while appreciative that the men are “being held accountable for their actions” they are “dubious of the underlying motivations that bring this to present light after 17 years.”
The family said they “will not take part in stoking its coals” and asked for privacy on behalf of the woman’s son.
As a 19-year-old wrestler at Penn State, Parker and his roommate Jean Celestin (who has a story credit on “The Birth of a Nation”) were charged with raping the 18-year-old student. The woman said she was unconscious at the time and didn’t consent to the sex. Parker, who testified that he and the woman had previously had sex, and Celestin maintained that it was consensual. He reiterated this point in his post Tuesday night.
Parker was acquitted in 2001. Celestin was convicted of sexual assault, but that was later overturned when the woman opted not to testify again for a 2005 retrial. She sued Penn State and was awarded a settlement out of court.
Her suffering reportedly continued, however.
The Hollywood Reporter on Tuesday spoke to S. Daniel Carter, a sexual assault victim advocate, who said the accuser was “tormented” by “the constant contact and fear of seeing her assailants on campus.”
The accuser’s brother, identified only as “Johnny,” also spoke about his sister.
“If I were to look back at her very short life and point to one moment where I think she changed as a person, it was obviously that point,” Johnny told Variety. “The trial was pretty tough for her.”
After the trial, Johnny said, his sister moved around frequently and became a mother to a son with her boyfriend.
“I think the ghosts continued to haunt her,” he said.
The case largely escaped notice at Sundance, but in a pair of trade interviews published Friday, Parker confronted it straightforwardly.
“I was sure it would come up,” Parker told Deadline. “I stand here, a 36-year-old man, 17 years removed from one of the painful moments in my life. And I can imagine it was painful for everyone. I was cleared of everything, of all charges. I’ve done a lot of living, and raised a lot of children. I’ve got five daughters and a lovely wife.”
Parker’s Facebook post took on a graver tone. He noted that it was not an attempt to “solve this with a statement” but merely a response to the moment.
“I cannot change what has happened. I cannot bring this young woman who was someone else’s daughter, someone’s sister and someone’s mother back to life,” he wrote. “I have tried to conduct myself in a way that honors my entire community — and will continue to do this to the best of my ability.”
In the bright spotlight of Hollywood’s awards season, far less has hurt a film’s chances with Oscar voters. On the other hand, Parker wasn’t found guilty, and he has faced the case more directly than some Hollywood stars have in the past.
“I have never run from this period in my life and I never ever will,” he wrote.
A lot is on the line for Fox Searchlight, which paid more for “The Birth of a Nation” than any previous Sundance film. The movie’s striking poster features Parker as Turner with a noose made out of an American flag. The film will play in September at the Toronto International Film Festival.
In an earlier statement, Fox Searchlight, which has not yet responded to the latest developments, said: “Fox Searchlight is aware of the incident that occurred while Nate Parker was at Penn State. We also know that he was found innocent and cleared of all charges. We stand behind Nate and are proud to help bring this important and powerful story to the screen.” | http://www.philasun.com/entertainment/rape-case-past-casts-pallor-birth-nation/ | en | 2016-08-19T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/c8a5a7de43cca4ecb45b00a515de2dbc7c81bb5523f9e5f6114605b129042f4f.json |
[
"Felicia Mcguffie"
] | 2016-08-26T12:57:22 | null | 2014-12-05T16:14:40 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Ftravel%2Freading-pennsylvanias-great-girlfriend-getaway%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2014/12/travel_12-07-14a.jpg | en | null | Reading, Pennsylvania’s Great Girlfriend Getaway | null | null | www.philasun.com | By Renee Gordon
“When the working day is done, Girls – they want to have fun, Oh girls just want to have fun”
–Cyndi Lauper
Girlfriends gathered together to shop, swap stories, trade beauty tips and explore areas of personal interest even prior to European contact and the Age of Exploration. Native Americans met annually to trade goods and their wives and daughters came along and used the “rendezvous” as an opportunity to spend time with their female friends and, if unmarried, look over the available males. The lure of an extended period of time with your BFF has not dimmed and the activity, dining, touring and accommodation options have expanded.
Reading, Pennsylvania, 63 miles from Philadelphia, has crafted an outstanding Girlfriend’s Getaway & More package that is designed to provide a wide variety experiences that range from the luxurious to the interactive. Participants select from a menu of possibilities featuring spa treatments, historic sites, shopping, wine tasting and scenic trails. Reading’s Classic Girlfriend’s Getaway & More™ can be booked online and includes accommodations, Spa services, an official gift bag, a coupon redeemable for a Girlfriend’s Getaway™ nightshirt at VF Outlet Center and numerous discount coupons for stores in the outlet center and in the city. www.visitreadingpa.com/Things-To-Do-In-Reading/Getaways
The land on which Reading is situated was purchased from the Lenni-Lenape Indians from William Penn for his sons Thomas and Richard to settle. The area was known as Finney’s Ford until 1733 when the exact site for the new settlement was selected because of its location at the junction of two valleys. The city was named Reading (Red-ing) after Reading in England, the Penn’s home county seat. The brothers platted the city in 1748 and it became the seat of Berks County four years later. That same year Conrad Weiser established a trading post, a colonial mall, on the current Penn Street.
Because the city was founded so early its history is tied immutably to that of the colony of Pennsylvania and later the state. Berks County’s iron industry was booming by the start of the American Revolution and the local forges were called upon to supply Washington’s troops with guns and ammunition.
The area’s ironworks were huge operations that included the ironmaster’s home, forges, furnaces, shops and housing for the workers, enslaved, indentured and free. The 1780 census reveals that ironmasters’ were the largest slave owners in the county, owning nearly 50 percent of the 119 slaves held there. Prior to the Civil War Reading was an important station on the Underground Railroad and it is documented that fugitives found sanctuary within the black community living in the ironworks.
Historic Old Bethel AME Zion Church
was constructed in 1837 funded by the congregation under the leadership of George Dillen, Samuel Murray, Isaac Parker and Jacob Ross, a fugitive slave from Virginia. The 2.5-story edifice was rebuilt in 1869 and remodeled 20 years later. The parishioners were participants in the UGRR and freedom seekers were secreted there. Today the church houses the Central Pennsylvania African American Museum (CPAAM). It opened in 1998 and was renovated in 2011,
The museum’s founder, Frank Gilyard, was dedicated to the task of collecting, preserving and promulgating the history of African Americans in Berks County and the six neighboring counties from 1790-1981 with an emphasis on those in Reading. The tour showcases thematic, chronological galleries that feature documents, photographs, artifacts and interactive displays. The highlight of a tour of the CPAAM is a view of the actual chamber in which fugitives were hidden. www.cpaam.net
Reading is fortunate to have two sites that provide excellent vantage points from which to view the city and the region beyond. They are located in close proximity to one another and can be reached via Skyline Drive.
PHOTO: Historic Old Bethel AME Zion Church
The 120-ft. tall William Penn Memorial Fire Tower was erected in 1939 on Mt. Penn, 1,015-ft. above the Schuylkill. On a clear day the stone tower offers a 60-mile panoramic view. The 1889 wooden tower that preceded it burned down in 1923 and it was not until Roosevelt’s New Deal, in 1938, that a second tower began construction using fireproof materials. The tower is open on a very limited schedule. www.pagodaskyline.org/tower
The city’s oldest landmark, a seven story, Pagoda, is also situated atop Mount Penn. Commissioned by William A. Witman, Sr., it was completed in 1908 for $50,000. The red brick and 60-tons of terra cotta tile Shogun Dynasty castle is 28-ft. wide, 50-ft. long and 72-ft. high. Witman’s original plan to create a luxury resort that incorporated the structure fell through and in 1910 the 10–acre property passed to Jonathon and Julia Mould who sold the Pagoda to the city for $1 a year later.
Tours of the building are by donation and visitors climb the 87-step oak staircase to the observation area at the top. On one level there is a small museum with artifacts and memorabilia. On the top-level, 360-degree windows provide a view of Philadelphia’s skyscrapers weather permitting. A Japanese bell, cast in Obata in 1739, is in the center of the room.
PHOTO: Bethel Slave Hideaway
On the lower level there is a fireplace, this is the only pagoda with a fireplace and chimney, and comfortable seating. The Pagoda Café features local products and the Gift Shop’s souvenirs, kites and gifts support the all-volunteer organization. Of special note is a Japanese temple gateway located at the entrance to the Pagoda. Annually on December 24th the Pagoda’s lights flash to indicate to the children of Reading that Santa is on his way. www.readingpagoda.com
There are no circumstances under which a day at the spa is not a good idea and Reading’s getaway package includes a selection of spa treatments. United Artists, one of the city’s premier spa destinations, has been voted one of the 200 best spas nationwide and the palette of services available makes it an obvious choice to elevate your getaway to the extraordinary. United Artists is a full service spa and salon with signature therapeutic massages and natural therapies that can include lunch if requested and Bridal and Men’s Day Out packages are available. The staff is warm and welcoming as well as highly trained and professional and they contribute to charitable organizations including Hope Cuts. Reservations are highly recommended. www.unitedartistssalon.com
GoggleWorks is a unique cultural institution located in the 1871 Willson Safety Goggle factory, the first factory to produce optical glass in the world. They are credited with starting the workplace safety industry. The company continually expanded and refined their line until the plant closed in 2002. The building was adapted for reuse and opened 3-years later as the GoogleWorks Center for the Arts. In 2006 it was awarded the PA Historic Preservation Award.
The 145,000-sq. ft. complex consists of six buildings with the five story main building featuring 34 working artists’ studios, classrooms, a 131-seat film theater and café. A museum on the third floor relates the history of the former factory through photographs and artifacts. The first floor gift shop showcases more than 240 regional consigners. Girlfriends at GoogleWorks can enroll in a one day class and come away with new skills and a personal creation. There is a fee for classes but general admission is free. www.goggleworks.org
Reading was once known as the “Outlet Capital of the World” and the 52-acre VF Outlet Center was its hub. This was one of the first outlet centers in the nation and it all began in 1899 when the Reading Glove and Mitten Manufacturing Company was founded. In 1919, the company became the Vanity Fair Mills and started making intimate apparel. In 1971 the decision was made to sell the excess products within a designated factory space. No real promotion was done but word of the great prices spread, the products continually sold out and the factory outlet concept was born. The sales here are stunning and there always seems to be a coupon that makes the price even better. Parking is free and there are eight buildings of bargains for you and your friends to explore. www.vfoutletcenter.com
In 1948, William Koziar decorated his home and grounds for Christmas to the delight of his family and neighbors. Each year he expanded his display by adding new elements and his residence went from being known as the “Christmas House” to being the “Christmas Village”. This oft-awarded attraction is recognized as one of the “Top 10 Pennsylvania Attractions” and Display World Magazine’s “Best Outdoor Christmas Display in the World”.
The approach to Koziar’s Christmas Village is north on Christmas Village Road. As you crest the hill the entire village, illuminated with more than 500,000 lights, is spread out before you. A walking trail winds through the village pass thematic displays, animated figures, gift shops and eateries all accompanied by Christmas music in all genres. Displays are multicultural and feature fairy tale and storybook characters, favorite holiday stories and Christmas icons. This is a must-see attraction whether you celebrate the holiday or not. The village is open in the evenings until January 3rd. www.koziarschristmasvillage.com
Dining in Reading is part of the adventure. The city has numerous eclectic eateries that provide experiences from fine dining to casual. Viva Bistro & Tapas Lounge serves “Euro-Mediterranean Cuisine” for lunch and dinner. The restaurant is all warm woods and comforting colors with a fireplace and cozy booths. The menu is a mixture of French and Italian dishes augmented with homemade soups and desserts. It is located one-block from the outlet center making it perfect as a place to dine and refresh during or after shopping. www.vivagoodlife.com
Centre Park Historic District is home to Sofrito Gastro Pub. Chef and owner Hector J. Ruiz has created Latino- Caribbean dishes with a traditional American twist. The pub has an international ambiance and the food is inspired. Ruiz’s Bleu Cheese Steak Club is a must for cheesesteak aficionados. www.sofritogastropub.com
The Ugly Oyster Drafthaus is located inside a 1700s structure that is the oldest pub in the county. It is an authentic Irish pub that was crafted in Yorkshire, England, taken apart, shipped to the United States and reassembled by the craftsmen who constructed it. A step inside the pub is a step into history. The owner traveled to Ireland to take formal classes at the Guinness Brewery so that the Ugly Oyster Drafthaus could be designated an authentic Irish pub. The menu features hearty steak and seafood fare prepared with only the freshest ingredients. www.theuglyoyster.com
A great way to round out your Girlfriend’s Getaway is to have breakfast at the Tomcat Café, voted the “Best Breakfast in Berks County”. The menu is astonishing, with more than 50 pancake choices and creative omelets named after performers and songs. I strongly suggest you arrive early because there will be a line. You can find the full menu and photographs online. www.tomcatcafe.com
Country Inn & Suites is centrally located and offers 102 affordable guest rooms and suites. This hotel is a best value because of all the included amenities, bountiful breakfast, library, pool and whirlpool, free parking, fitness center and free high-speed Internet. Accommodations are roomy and feature flat screen television, refrigerator and microwave. www.countryinns.com/wyomissingpa
Complete information on planning and booking Reading’s Classic Girlfriend’s Getaway & More™ can be found online. Pick and choose which activities appeal to you, grab a friend and go for it.
www.visitreadingpa.com
I wish you smooth travels!
TRAVEL TIPS:
Who among us does not want to find the perfect gift for that special someone? Technology is all the rage and the Cogito Classic connected watch is on the cutting edge. The watch, one of only a few that never needs to be charged because it is powered by a standard watch battery, is the winner of the 2014 bronze A’Design Award and 2014 Innovation Award. This timepiece has LED icons that display incoming missed calls, texts, emails and calendar and remote functions that mute incoming calls, locate your phone, control your music and take remote photographs. It is water resistant 10 ATM and easily links with your Apple or android smartphone and tablet. French designer Xavier Huoy has created a series of watchbands and colors to fit your mood and lifestyle. The Cogito Classic is available at Brookstone and online. www.cogitowatch.com
Bernie Mev’s European-inspired “Curlies” footwear is the first travel flat with a full composite sole. The memory foam sole makes the shoe comfortable and the designer pouch makes it perfect for travel. It is offered in tree styles and more than 10 colors. The shoes are sold internationally and locally in Nordstrom and online.
The first ski and snowboard apparel rental company has arrived. GetOutfitted rents fashionable ski outfits for three, five or 10 days for as little as $29 per day. The best part is that the outfit arrives on the day you requested, to your designated location. After selecting exactly what you need you can have it shipped to your hotel alleviating the need for you to pack and carry it. When your ski trip is completed simply repack it in the prepaid envelope and return it. www.getoutfitted.com | http://www.philasun.com/travel/reading-pennsylvanias-great-girlfriend-getaway/ | en | 2014-12-05T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/6768d2acf85a3f0176886c63707605d6cfc96df1a87e10254ded396acc8d1ddf.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-26T13:01:10 | null | 2016-08-19T20:18:31 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fweek-in-review%2Flouisiana-governor-40k-homes-impacted-historic-flooding%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/wk-rev_08-21-16b.jpg | en | null | Louisiana governor: 40K homes impacted by historic flooding | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: In this aerial photo, rescue officials and civilians alike work to pull people from their flooded homes along the flooded Tangipahoa River near Amite, Independence, Tickfaw and Robert, Louisiana Saturday, August 13, 2016. (Ted Jackson/Nola.com | The Times-Picayune)
By Michael Kunzelman, Melinda Deslatte and Rebecca Santana
Associated Press
BATON ROUGE, La. — About 40,000 homes in Louisiana have been impacted in some way by the historic floods that also killed at least eight people, the governor said Tuesday.
Gov. John Bel Edwards spoke at a news conference alongside FEMA administrator Craig Fugate, saying that “well over” 20,000 people have been rescued since the flooding began Friday. A torrent of about two feet of rain inundated the southern part of the state over a 48-hour period and many homes and businesses were still underwater.
While some areas were entering recovery mode, the governor warned new places downstream could see flooding. Officials are still in search and rescue mode, he said.
“Nobody is going to be forgotten,” Edwards said.
Some residents returned to their flood-damaged homes for the first time and found a soggy mess.
David Key used a small boat to get to his house in Prairieville and said it had taken on 5 inches of “muddy nasty bayou water.” There were fish and thousands of spiders. And mold has started to set in.
“I’m not going to lie, I cried uncontrollably,” he said. “But you have to push forward and make it through. Like everybody says, you still have your family.”
The extent of damage was coming into clearer view. Eight more parishes were added to the federal disaster declaration, bringing the total number to 12.
In Livingston Parish, one of the hardest-hit areas with about 138,000 people, an official estimated that 75 percent of the homes were a “total loss.”
But Lori Steele, spokeswoman for the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, was upbeat, saying the rescues taking place now are less of a “life-saving nature” and more to help people who were running low on supplies in flooded areas. As the main roads drain, emergency crews were going to be able get hot meals, water and medical supplies to the 25 shelters in the parish.
“We’re tired, but today’s a good day,” she said.
Rivers and creeks were still dangerously bloated in areas south of Baton Rouge as people filled sandbags there to protect their houses, bracing for the worst as the water worked its way south. In Ascension Parish, officials said some small towns have already been inundated.
The governor said more than 8,000 people were in shelters, but the number was constantly fluctuating as people arrive and leave.
The slow-moving, low-pressure system that dumped more than 20 inches of rain on some parts of Louisiana was crawling into Texas, but the National Weather Service warned the danger of new flooding remained high due to the sheer volume of water flowing toward the Gulf of Mexico.
In and around Baton Rouge, many were anxious to check on damage. But a police officer at one Baton Rouge area roadblock warned Jack Miller that the 60-year-old was risking arrest if he tried to drive a boat on a trailer down a stretch of the highway down to just two lanes.
“I’m trying to get back to my home and rescue my cat,” Miller said.
The eighth storm-related death was the accidental drowning of a 66-year-old man whose body was found in the Sherwood Forest area, which has been a site of severe flooding, state officials said.
Karla and Johnathon McDaniel waded through chest-deep water to revisit their home they fled late Saturday night but the water was too deep to get inside.
On their way out, the McDaniels stopped to gawk at a monster truck revving its engine in a failed attempt to free a National Guard vehicle mired in a muddy ditch. It was a welcome moment of levity after days of worry around the state’s southeast, which saw thousands of water rescues.
Julee Doiron, 56, and a friend walked down the road to a flooded storage facility where she has a valuable record collection. She felt fortunate the flooding stopped a block short of her home, but she owns a couple of water-damaged rental properties that aren’t covered by flood insurance.
“None of these places are in a flood zone,” she said. “Why buy it if you don’t need it? My agent didn’t recommend it to me.”
In a state more accustomed to hurricanes, forecasters said the rains were nearly off the charts in intensity. Meteorologist Ken Graham of the National Weather Service’s office in Slidell, near New Orleans, said forecasters had alerted people days ahead of the rain. Yet the forecasts Thursday were for 8 inches of rain, with higher totals expected in some areas.
One town, Zachary, received more than 2 feet of rain in a 48-hour period that ended Saturday morning. Another, Livingston, got nearly 22 inches over the same stretch. Rivers in the region reached historic highs – occasionally shattering old records dating to 1983 floods. | http://www.philasun.com/week-in-review/louisiana-governor-40k-homes-impacted-historic-flooding/ | en | 2016-08-19T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/94f48fe4629c2a037d1187339be10aa6fc43d703f54c72ba2fdac134883b1a96.json |
[
"Philadelphia Sun Staff"
] | 2016-08-29T16:51:28 | null | 2016-08-29T10:56:38 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fentertainment%2Ftika-sumpter-stars-first-lady-michelle-obama-southside-2%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2016/08/enter_08-28-16e.jpg | en | null | Tika Sumpter stars as First Lady Michelle Obama in Southside with You | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Tika Sumpter and Parker Sawyers as the Obamas on their first date in Southside With You.
By Kharisma McIlwaine
The love story of President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama is one that America has thoroughly enjoyed watching during the couple’s time in The White House. The affection, playful interaction, and the support they show one another is heartwarming.
Director (and New Jersey native) Richard Tanne took on the task of showing an in-depth look at the first couple’s love in the film Southside with You.
Casting the First couple comes with a great deal of pressure and Tanne made an extraordinary choice in choosing Tika Sumpter as the First Lady.
Southside with You tells the story of the Obamas love at the point where it all began: their first date. From the beginning, Sumpter said, she was all-in with Tanne and his vision.
“I was given the synopsis and told that this director wanted me to play the First Lady,” she said. “Then I read the script, and said, “Wow! I love this perspective. I love this love story and I wanted to be in it. We met in LA, we talked, and he expressed his vision so clear. I was on board right away. I mean the script wasn’t even written!”
The entire film takes place in one day, a feat not easily accomplished, but Sumpter attributes the accomplishment to Tanne’s screenplay.
“It was so well-written that it could be done in one day,” she said. “Some people said, ‘I wish it was longer! What happens next?!’ That’s what you want… you want people to want more.”
“I love the fact that it’s so layered and it all happened in a day,” Sumpter continued. “The conversations they had were amazing, the changes that happened within themselves, and there were topics that were brought up that were touchy, that was cool too. I have to say Richard Tanne hit it out of the ballpark with the writing. In addition to a layered storyline, art [specifically the art of Ernie Barnes] contributed another dimension to the narrative. The art is the introduction to depth and a side of Michelle Obama that most of us probably didn’t know about.”
Preparing for a role of this magnitude requires a great deal of research and Sumpter did a lot of reading in order to become the First Lady on the big screen.
“Richard Tanne helped me with a bunch of books,” she said. “I read “Invisible Man” for the first time. The book that really helped me was her brother Craig Robinson’s book, “A Game of Character: A Family Journey from Chicago’s Southside to the Ivy League and Beyond.” It really describes his younger sister, who she was, who their family was, how they grew up, what it was like in their household. It gave me a feeling.”
“She enunciates everything. Her hand gestures, when she puts her hand to her heart, it meant something to her. So I wanted to incorporate that stuff, but I think our main goal, was to embody the essence but not imitate,” Sumpter said.
In addition to portraying the First Lady in Southside with You, Sumpter is also a producer on the film. She’s hoping that this part of her participation in the film will serve as an inspiration for others in the same way that Michelle Obama has served as one of her inspirations.
“My role as a producer, is to inspire other people to say, you can control your own destiny. With some hard work you’ll get there… you’re in control,” Sumpter said. “Especially for women out there, this is an inspiration to me. [Michelle Obama] is an inspiration for me, and I think to everybody. I hope people get to enjoy being a fly on the wall. It’s a walk and talk movie about courtship, friendship, love, first dates, jitters and being vulnerable.”
Southside with You opens nationwide on Friday August 26th. Check your local listings for show times. | http://www.philasun.com/entertainment/tika-sumpter-stars-first-lady-michelle-obama-southside-2/ | en | 2016-08-29T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/791747cab35e60c7aa97e01888b45da20c25ce0dff0abc4dbfa4191d370c8554.json |
[
"Felicia Mcguffie"
] | 2016-08-26T12:54:29 | null | 2014-12-14T10:32:54 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Ftravel%2Fdeep-into-detroit%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2014/12/travel_12-14-14a.jpg | en | null | Deep into Detroit | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Joe Louis Fist sculpture
By Renée S. Gordon
“You took our country from its infancy, into industry and your name still carries with it the idea of a nation built on steel, muscle and sweat.” –Eminem, “Letter to Detroit”
The first multi-million dollar industry in the New World was the fur trade. As early as 1608, Champlain began to form alliances with Indians to trade furs to Europe and in 1682 La Salle claimed for France all the land drained by the Mississippi and its tributaries. All of the early American settlements were established in locations based on their proximity to transportation to facilitate trade. Waterways and native trails were the first highways and no region had better access than that of an area in Michigan Territory. Lake St. Clair flows into Lake Erie there and the French traders referred to it as “the Strait,” or “Le Detroit.”
Fort Ponchartrain de Detroit was settled on July 24, 1701 by Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac as both a French fur trading post and a barrier to British infringement. The site was strategic because the river was narrow and the bluffs were steep. The original group of colonists consisted of two priests, soldiers, craftsmen, traders and Indian allies. Detroit fell to the British in 1760 and was surrendered to the United States who took control in 1796. A statue of Cadillac’s landing was dedicated in 2001 in Hart Plaza.
Detroit was incorporated in 1815 and during the antebellum period it became an increasingly significant station on the Underground Railroad. The city was called “Midnight” in the freedom code and it was the final stop prior to crossing into Windsor, Ontario. To memorialize the journey and the people, a sculpture in Hart Plaza on the riverbank depicts the figures of six slaves and African American UGRR conductor George DeBaptiste gazing toward Canada as they await transport. “The Gateway to Freedom Memorial,” sculpted by Ed Dwight, is 10’ by 12’. A memorial on the Canadian shoreline captures freedom seekers at the moment of their arrival.
Detroit, from its founding, has been a place where cultures have intermingled, where innovation and creativity have flourished and where people have the ability to revitalize, reform and remake both themselves and the city. This is the perfect time to visit the city and explore its past, present and future and Show Me Detroit Tours offers a comprehensive list of tours that provide glimpses into numerous aspects of the city. Thematic and specialty guided tours are available by reservation. This is a wonderful way to “take a deeper dive into the D.” www.showmedetroittours.com
Buildings have biographies and visitors to Detroit, a showcase for a premiere collection of pre-Depression architectural marvels, can follow the history and heritage of the city structure by structure. The first brick building was erected in 1820 and wealth and prosperity were no strangers to the city from the 1890’s until the early 1930s. This led to a tremendous building boom and the majority of the most noted architects of the era left a legacy in Detroit. The beauty of each edifice is enhanced by the history and the architecture is so impressive and pervasive that you can begin in any section of the city but I suggest you begin in the Downtown area near Woodward Avenue, the first street illuminated by Thomas Edison with arc street lighting and the setting for portions of Transformers.
Sculptor Marshall Fredericks created the Spirit of Detroit, the city’s iconic sculpture. A man holds a globe, representing God, in his right hand and a family in the left. The marble backdrop stands 45-ft. by 35-ft. The seated bronze sculpture is on a marble base.
My personal favorite piece of public art is the 1986 “Monument to Joe Louis” by Robert Graham. Sports Illustrated gifted Detroit with the very controversial sculpture of Louis’ arm with hand clenched into a fist. The arm is 24-ft. long and is held aloft by bronze poles.
If you have time to visit a single architectural wonder it must be the Guardian Building, Detroit’s Cathedral of Finance. It was originally constructed by the 1927 Union Trust Co. and was known as the 40-story Union Guardian Building. Approximately 1.8-million bricks, in a specially created orange color, were used in conjunction with glazed tile and polychrome terra cotta. Corrado Parducci crafted the exterior carvings and a ribbon of tri-colored terra cotta distinguishes the lower seven floors from those above.
The interior will take your breath away. The building’s design is meant to inspire trust in the customers and to that end certain design elements are reminiscent of a cathedral. The three story vaulted ceiling tops a 150-ft. long lobby with Travertine marble columns the bases of which are rare black Belgium marble. Even more rare is the red Numidian marble also found in the lobby. It was obtained from an African mine that had been dormant for 30 years because it was no longer mined. In order to make the bank quiet a ¾-inch layer of horsehair was placed on the ceiling. A Tiffany clock, one of four in existence, is also on view as well as two stained glass windows featuring Aztec figures. The building was listed on the National Register in 1989. www.guardianbuilding.com
Rivard Plaza is located on Detroit’s International Riverfront, a river walkway from the Ambassador Bridge to Gabriel Richard Park. The 32-mile long Detroit River is the only river with a zipcode and this is the only place where Canada is south of the US. The plaza features outstanding views and photo ops of Canada and the downtown area. It features an inland map of the river, a café and the Cullen Family Carousel. www.detroitriverfront.org
PHOTO: Motown Museum
The first documented African American in the Detroit area was an “unknown negresse” who was given the last rites in 1736 and by 1750 there were 450 free blacks and 33 slaves. In 1910, at the onset of the Black Migration, the census noted a black population of 5,741 in the city, 10 years later the population was 40,838. From 1913 to 1988, 3,000 trains arrived at the Michigan Central Train Station monthly.
Berry Gordy, Sr. and Bertha Fuller Gordy arrived from Georgia in 1922 for the greater opportunity that the city promised. Gordy, Sr. was descended from a white farmer, the great grandfather of Jimmy Carter, and an enslaved woman. Berry Gordy, Jr. was born 7-years later, one of 8 children. He withdrew from school in the 11th grade to become a professional boxer and after serving in Korea he held a number of jobs until he penned a hit song, recorded by Jackie Wilson, in 1957.
Gordy went on to found the most successful African American company in the country, introduce soul music to the world and profoundly alter the course of American music, culture and race relations. In 1988 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and in 2013 he became the first living recipient of the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame Pioneer Award.
In 1959, the Gordy family loaned Berry $800.to establish his company and purchase a former photography studio at 2648 West Grand Blvd. he named “Hitsville USA.” Motown relocated to Los Angeles in 1972 and in 1998 it became part of the Universal Music Group. The Motown Historical Museum was founded in 1985 by Esther Gordy Edwards to preserve and promote Motown’s history and lasting impact.
Tours begin on the exterior where visitors can take photos in front of the building, the “Hitsville” sign and the historic plaque. Of the original eight buildings five remain and the museum is housed inside two adjacent structures. “The Motown Sound,” a 15-minute video provides orientation before you proceed to the second floor. Highlights of these galleries include Stevie Wonder’s harmonica and Michael Jackson’s hat and glove. Jackson visited the museum in 1988 and donated $125,000 and his personal items.
Returning to the first level you pass through the lobby, control room and enter the famous Studio A. This is where many of the hits were recorded and the studio remains 99 percent original. Paul McCartney visited and wanted to play the 1877 Steinway used in the sessions. When he found it out of tune he had it transported and tuned. Wonderful souvenirs are available in “Shop Around,” the museum gift store. www.motownmuseum.org
You can be among the first to visit United Sound Systems Recording Studio (USSRS), the first independent recording studio, meaning it allowed people to record their own music and market it on their own. It was founded in 1933 and has operated continuously since then. The tour begins with a 10-minute film and proceeds into the three studios. Ray Charles, Aretha, Bootsy Collins, the Rolling Stones, Prince, Miles, Muddy Waters, the Parliaments, Whitney Houston and John Lee Hooker, among others have recorded here as well as the first Motown music was recorded here. Stax, at one point, was having financial difficulty and the USSRS agreed to allow their artists to come there. They recorded 31 albums in two months for the Stax label. Studio A is the largest sound studio in the country and most of it is original. This is a working studio that is open around the clock. Tours are by appointment only. www.unitedsounddetroit.com
The Majestic Entertainment Center includes the Garden Bowl, a family owned retro, 16-lane bowling alley, restaurant and alternative music venue. The bowling alley is the oldest active bowling center. More than 290 concerts are presented annually. Visitors can “Rock and Bowl.” www.majesticdetroit.com/garden-bowl-detroit
Bert’s Market Place at Eastern Market is another must while in the city. The manager, Miller London, was Motown’s first black salesman and is depicted in “Motown, the Musical.” Portions of his personal collection are on display throughout the restaurant and event space. The Motown Room is shaped like a music note with booths around the sides. Each booth is dedicated to a Motown act and is adorned with photos, records and individual video monitors that feature performances. A series of murals by Curtis Lewis are located in an adjoining area. One of the murals showcases Motown artists and a second mural highlights important historic figures. Do ask to see the murals! www.bertsentertainmentcomplex.com
Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, the oldest continuously operated jazz club, opened in Detroit n May of 1934 as a diner. Clarence Baker, the son of the owner, worked alone at night and decided to add a piano and some jazz music and the legendary club was born. Baker’s remains an authentic, retro, jazz club that is nearly 100 percent original. The iconic bar, designed in the 50s, is shaped like a keyboard and the 7-ft. Steinway piano was personally selected by Art Tatum. Most of the greats have performed there, Adderley Cannonball, Charlie Parker, Oscar Peterson, John Coltrane, Gene Krupa, Earl Hines, Dizzy Gillespie, Dave Brubeck, Nat “King” Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and MilesDavis. The King of Sweden once dropped in to listen to a set and scenes from Whitney Houston’s Sparkle were filmed at the club. Soul food is on the menu, jazz is regularly performed and you can become part of the legend. www.theofficialbakerskeyboardlounge.com
This will be the 36th year for the Detroit Jazz Festival, the largest free jazz festival in the world. Held outdoors in the downtown area, completely family oriented and featuring only jazz, the festival brings aficionados from around the world. The festival will be held Sept 4-7 and the headliners will be announced in April. www.detroitjazzfest.com
The world-class Westin Book Cadillac Detroit Hotel, ideally located for touring the city, offers all of the amenities imaginable. There has been a hotel on the site since 1888 but the Book Brothers purchased the property, razed the hotel, hired an architect and opened the Neo-Renaissance Cadillac Hotel in 1924. The 33-story hotel was, at that time, the tallest hotel in the world. Through the years notables including the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, President John F. Kennedy, Elvis Pressley, and the Beatles have stayed there. In 2006, the luxury hotel was renovated at a cost of $192-million. Live like a legend. www.bookcadillacwestin.com
When planning your next trip remember what Martha and the Vandellas said, ”Don’t forget the Motor City.” You’ll have the time of your life. www.visitdetroit.com
I wish you smooth travels! | http://www.philasun.com/travel/deep-into-detroit/ | en | 2014-12-14T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/f6d3a7c5c3f7c5f741a81598e7fa608f2438343ba32451022ac958ebf81a90e1.json |
[
"Kiarra Solomon"
] | 2016-08-26T12:53:15 | null | 2014-11-09T07:49:57 | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philasun.com%2Fcolor-of-money%2Fformer-nfl-player-turned-developer-changes-the-face-of-real-estate-in-philly%2F.json | http://www.philasun.com//home4/philasun/public_html/wordpress//2014/11/money_11-09-14a.jpg | en | null | Former NFL Player turned developer changes the face of real estate in Philly | null | null | www.philasun.com | ABOVE PHOTO: Shawn Bullard
By Kiarra Solomon
@by_kiarra
Philadelphia native Shawn Bullard was making financial plays even before he joined the NFL’s San Diego Chargers as their outside linebacker from 2005-08. Before he even graduated from Temple University, he decided to invest in real estate during his senior year. His first investment property was on the 1100 block of Lehigh Avenue. Even then, Bullard was taking risks and strategizing, determining the property was perfect because it was mid-way between both Temple’s Main Campus and its Health Sciences Campus. When he sold the property a few years later, Bullard made a sizeable profit, enough to launch Konkrete Investments, LLC.
Although he did make it to the NFL, an injury during his senior year began to cause issues during his time with the Chargers. The injury, combined with the subsequent NFL “politics” Bullard experienced made him realize that football was not a guarantee. After leaving the Chargers, with hopes of being picked up by one of two other NFL teams, Bullard began to spend a lot of time focusing on learning more about real estate. This ultimately led Shawn to uncover his passion, and knack for developing properties.
Fast forward 10 years, and Konkrete Investments is one of the only black owned real estate development firms in Philadelphia, with the majority of the city’s developers being white and/or non-Philadelphia residents. Bullard also happens to be one of the youngest developers in the city, just 33 years old.
“I am the young professional that people are trying to sell to, so I have an advantage”, says Bullard, “I know what my peers would like, how the property should look, what new modern appliances or tile to install.”
Bullard credits himself with being the first to develop some of the most popular blocks of student housing around Temple University, including 19th and Diamond Streets.
“Before we had windows and floors in the Mansion Lofts (on Diamond Street), we had the property completely rented.” Over the past decade the area surrounding Temple University has experienced 1000 percent growth according to city statistics, including amount of off-campus student housing available and the average cost.
Although Konkrete Investments has focused on Student Housing in the Temple University area for the past several years, Bullard has decided to take his company in a new direction, venturing into some new home developments over the next few years. One of his largest projects includes an 11000 sq. ft. development along the 1500 block of 8th Street (8th and Jefferson Streets). Bullard is currently developing this land to provide mid to upper level income homes for young professionals and families, including 20 condos.
In addition to his real estate ventures, Bullard also owns or co-owns several other business ventures, including a hair salon on Temple University’s campus, Studio 1944 (located at 1944 Cecil B. Moore Avenue).
Shawn attributes his success to applying his football background to his business ventures. For Bullard there is one main rule: “Always work longer and harder than your competitors.” | http://www.philasun.com/color-of-money/former-nfl-player-turned-developer-changes-the-face-of-real-estate-in-philly/ | en | 2014-11-09T00:00:00 | www.philasun.com/d160d42e358a9a168171407139fd6d3da558f3e1796bdcc094b024d925ad1b84.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T16:51:00 | null | null | Vote YES for Doug Finlater and council, who have done a great job with such outdated facilities. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391442811.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: West Kelowna city hall right price, right place, right design | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
West Kelowna is probably in the top five locations to live in Canada.
We have some of the most beautiful walkways and parks along Gellatly Road, and other locations on the Westside.
There are numerous wineries in West Kelowna, some being the most beautiful in Canada.
We need a proper city hall and civic centre for future city engineering, planning, for sidewalks, roads, or treatment plants.
• We do not need a city hall in some gravel pit—cost unknown
• We do not need a city hall on some hockey rink parking lot—cost unknown
• We do not need a city hall squeezed between Hwy. 97 traffic—cost unknown
• We do not need a city hall in some rented grocery/clothing store location.
Doug Finlater, and council have been majority elected to run the City of West Kelowna. They have proposed a 2016 design of a city hall and civic centre, in the correct location of Westbank, at a bargain cost for today.
Let's look forward to the future of Beautiful West Kelowna, and vote YES for Doug Finlater and council, who have done a great job with such outdated facilities.
Ron Ganczar, West Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391442811.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/d4bb54415a0a2ed973b2eff90314787cb356ec4239b814ceee909ac8e84731a1.json |
[
"Joel Young"
] | 2016-08-26T13:01:55 | null | null | Opportunities abound—you just have to look for them. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F391084271.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Young: Finding entrepreneurial inventors in our midst | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | I know what you are thinking—you still relate the word and the meaning of “entrepreneur” to be pure business venturing.
But, this week, I want to recognize and embrace the reality that entrepreneurial creation, in its purest form, relates in large measure to the elements of innovation and creativity via inventive development.
Yes, inventors continue to be very relevant in our global world and definitely within the entrepreneurial world.
So, I want to focus on an important aspect of “entrepreneurial invention”, that being the entrepreneurial opportunity.
An all too common question I get from would-be inventors, creators and entrepreneurs is “how do I find real problems to solve?”
There are, I’ve discovered in my six years of living in this region, an incredible number of exceptionally-talented individuals who are on track to seek their entrepreneurial opportunity niche.
By the same token, books have been written, scholars lecture and much discussion and debate conjures up the issue how to find the opportunities that can be converted into genuine realistic and realizable ventures for you.
OK, so let’s begin with another reality check—there is no easy journey to entrepreneurial success . Any potential successful venture for any of us requires hard work, commitment, dedication and, yes, patience.
You should read Peter Drucker’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Drucker is the so-called “father of management” and to some degree, entrepreneurship theory.
His book, around since the 1980s, is a classic exploration presenting the how-to approach for finding opportunities.
It even includes strategies for guiding your path of discovery.
Another critically important milestone on your opportunity discovery journey is to recognize that all ventures begin with the customer.
True entrepreneurship is the ability to find and solve a problem or void in the marketplace that will solve a want or a need.
If you can’t find someone to pay you to do what you want to do for them don’t give up until you’ve researched and analyzed your idea thoroughly and exhausted all possibilities.
Then, perhaps, your next best approach might be find that certain someone with the need—or a very strong interest in— something you develop on your own to address that want or need, and sell it to them.
The key to this approach is qualifying the need to the market.
The better you can qualify the need, the more likely you won’t be wasting your time.
Go talk to potential customers.
Ask them, if I had something that would satisfy your want and need, would you be interested? How interested? At what price?
What you’re looking for is interest. If you get it, then give the solution you have found, some serious attention.
So, let’s tackle some objectives that would-be entrepreneurs cite when pursuing this methodology.
“If I give them my idea, they’ll just go and develop it themselves” Why would they spend their time and resources when they have a motivated and dedicated person champing at the bit to make it happen?
“I don’t have the time to get out and talk to prospects.” If you convince yourself you don’t, then give it up now because you are swimming upstream against the current.
“I don’t feel ethical trying to market something before I’ve got it aced. What if I can’t deliver? “ There is nothing unethical about going out in the world to find a potentially needed and profitable venture to present. It’s not uncommon for entrepreneurial dreamers to take some cash upfront before they actually solve the market problem. Don’t feel guilty about it.
“I like spending time in the lab. I don’t like making cold calls.” Either learn to like it,or find a partner who does because that is the essence of entrepreneurial venturing. Commercially speaking, nothing counts until it sells. And, ignoring that fact is a road to failure. Don’t underestimate the value and need for partnering in your venture. Also, surprisingly effective preparation sometimes turns up other unanticipated genuine opportunities.
The other part of preparing for achieving your entrepreneurial opportunity is adequately preparing yourself.
Force open your eyes, set some goals and importantly, build a productive mindset. You’ll need it.
Erase “should” and “could” from your vocabulary and your thinking. And, don’t get trapped in your own notions.
A good deal of your knowledge may constitute solutions to yesterday’s problems.
It may or may not apply to today.
Some of the best opportunities lie among “truths” that no longer apply.
The final part of preparing for opportunities is to quit preparing and act.
Find out what works and doesn’t work for you.
The more time you spend in entrepreneurial activities and exploration, the better you’ll get at it which will increase the odds of success in your favour.
Don’t be afraid to take risks. And, don’t be afraid to fail.
You will learn more from your mistakes and failures, no matter how big or small.
Go with what works and discard what doesn’t.
The old Gestalt saying, “don’t push the river, it flows by itself” applies well to entrepreneurial invention.
There are no lack of ideas and opportunities today. Arguably, there are more genuine opportunities in our world today than ever in our history.
Entrepreneurial invention and opportunities arise from both social and technological change.
If you’re running around frustrated by what you feel is a lack of ideas and potential opportunities, maybe you’re doing it to yourself.
It’s definitely not being done to you.
The opportunities are there whatever level you’re aiming for.
So, prepare, look, act and prosper. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/business/391084271.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/9b36bee618fa8c6fc883d6948556a16886153fe9d1b348e3d5a9032ddd565aec.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:11:03 | 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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/391051701.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/97ba75b7b116b56846561be55693ebf3782609fd9d9218b2da9e91ac64da9a8d.json |
[
"Gwen Steele"
] | 2016-08-26T13:09:08 | null | null | The Okanagan celebration was modelled on the historic farm picnics which happened annually from the 1920s to the 1950s. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F388564431.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/49311kelowna29SteeleSummerlanddemogardensweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Steele: Summerland research farm/gardens celebrate centennial | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Gwen Steele, standing on the edge of the cactus garden at the Summerland Ornamental Gardens Xeriscape Demonstration Garden, leads her guided tour during the experimental farm/garden centennial celebrations.
On the weekend of July 16 and 17, I participated in the enjoyable and varied celebrations marking the centennial of the Summerland Ornamental Gardens.
It was also the 25th anniversary of the formation of the Friends of the Summerland Ornamental Gardens.
The event was modelled on the historic farm picnics which happened annually from the 1920s to the 1950s.
Hundreds of people of all ages participated in the centennial event. It was a delight to hear the music floating through the gardens from musicians on the stage set up on the great lawn.
There were tours of various parts of the gardens led by experts familiar with the gardens. I especially enjoyed the tour of some of the 135 species of mature trees with Douglas Justice, associate director of the UBC Botanical Gardens.
Many old-time Summerland residents enjoyed catching up and sharing stories of olden days at the farm.
The events were punctuated by the whistle of the historic KVR steam train as it passed by across the canyon.
The Canyon Walk at the edge of the property provides an excellent view of the canyon, train and old trestle bridge.
In the early years,the Dominion Experimental Farm researched all aspects of valley agriculture. Most employees lived on the farm so it was a real community.
The gardens were started in 1916 as part of an ornamental research program at the farm (now the Summerland Research and Development Centre) which was established in 1914.
It was the place in the Okanagan to find out what trees, shrubs and flowers would thrive in gardens and parks. Over time the area developed into an English-style garden covering about 15 acres.
When the research station closed the ornamental horticulture program in the 1980s, the gardens languished under minimal maintenance. The Friends of the Gardens was formed to save these beautiful, historic gardens.
Over the years they have worked hard to restore the gardens.
In 1991, then garden manager Brian Stretch introduced the first public xeriscape demonstration/test garden to the Okanagan. It was the first in Canada and is still the largest.
Now the focus is to bring the gardens into the 21st century so they can be the place to go to find out what plants and techniques are appropriate for our dry climate.
Program manager Eva Antonijevic has done a remarkable job of organizing new garden projects, obtaining grants to finance them, and involving many volunteers, including school classes, to implement them.
Friends raise funds through annual plant sales, memberships, and donations from garden visitors to pay two seasonal gardeners and other garden expenses.
Today the gardens are a lovely place for a quiet picnic.
To ensure this treasured resource continues, be sure to make a donation in the collection box beside the new vegetable gardens when you visit or buy an annual membership. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/lifestyles/388564431.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/730ba5660f7cbe828967ca2064fa488fb74c9d43f870a6fd00cbd0ebb0d37125.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:02:23 | 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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.com/business/390477731.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/694125a93e4d41e317a2fc52d3c9e858515ab75609e0a5d7b33fec7924d13a8f.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T20:51:37 | null | null | Isn't safe, reliable water more important than buildings? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391645001.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Spending, borrowing in West Kelowna needs to be done wisely | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
A news release http://www.districtofwestkelowna.ca/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=343 from the City of West Kelowna is intended to 'clarify' the debate on the new city hall versus the water infrastructure projects and contains the following comment: "The funding for water system improvements does not come from the same sources as the new City Hall would."
The difference, according to the news release, is city hall costs will be repaid through property taxes while the water infrastructure costs will be repaid through utility bills.
Does knowing how the city will get these funds (taxes vs. utility bills) make any real difference when it is the same person paying the ever-increasing bill?
The mayor suggested (June 2016 Mayor's Message) there is a need to "get the facts out there" but this news release exemplifies a poor example. Hopefully, the media consultant that council is spending $25,000 of taxpayer funds on, will insist on truth, accuracy and honesty to get the facts out there and not use tactics intended only to support a Yes vote.
Since council is well aware there is a lot of taxpayer mistrust on the city hall issue (see Aug. 9, 2016 council meeting agenda item 9.1.2 documentation) why issue a news release that adds zero value to the debate and only adds value to the Yes vote?
The question is: Can taxpayers afford the $54 million water infrastructure improvements for safe, reliable water, along with the funding the remaining projects and plan to pay for a new city hall at this time?
Respondents to the 2016 Citizen's Survey provided a clear indication (60 per cent) to council they want property taxes frozen, even if it meant a reduction in municipal services. Council seems to have ignored this and that water infrastructure was rated as No. 2 in importance in the survey results (second only to roads).
However, they didn't take the opportunity in this survey to ask how much support/understanding there may be for water utility bills that may have to double, triple, or ? to pay back the debt created by the water infrastructure project on top of the required three per cent property tax increases.
The 2016 West Kelowna Citizen's survey results shows that 70 per cent of respondents rate the importance of water quality as 'very high' (the highest rating on the survey). Isn't safe, reliable water more important than buildings?
We have had ongoing water quality issues this summer with one water system, but we also need to recall that last summer West Kelowna also had issues with the water supply (storage reserves were low) which caused the implementation of stage 2 water restrictions. Water problems are not going away and may become more urgent in the future with climate change.
Many letter writers have expressed concerns there is currently a glut of vacant buildings on both West Kelowna and Westbank First Nation's land (including new buildings that have never been leased). Based on these vacancies, some have suggested we leave city hall where it is and lease additional space elsewhere or bring in more portables.
However, city council wants to overbuild the new city hall with the vision of renting out excess space until needed for future city staff. Most taxpayers would believe a commercial (but not in the public interest) lease agreement for a publicly-owned building is a venture government should be avoiding. However, West Kelowna council believes leasing unused space in the new city hall should become a fundamental part of their plan.
Others have suggested with the low interest rates we should be borrowing to improve our infrastructure. While we can't predict where interest rates might be once the water improvement project (arguably the most expensive and health-impacting in the list of master plans) starts we can assume they can't be much lower than today. Borrowing money in the current environment makes sense, but we need to spend it wisely.
T. Kinsman, West Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391645001.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/877890a8e4e00aa9303e045fc5788caf96eb2e5d8a5348dfb490fed9b0b56e1b.json |
[
"Rick Davis"
] | 2016-08-26T12:56:14 | null | null | Jason Bourne is set several years after Ultimatum. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F388303481.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/33089kelowna29DAVISJasonBourneweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Davis: Damon returns as Jason Bourne | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Matt Damon is back as Jason Bourne in the movie of the same name.
After playing the character that he made iconic in The Bourne Identity, The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum, he took The Bourne Legacy off with Jeremy Renner starring as main character Aaron Cross (Bourne is only referenced and appears in photographs). Damon had felt at the time that the character had run its course but did leave the door open that he might return in a decade if he felt the time was right.Nine years after The Bourne Ultimatum, Damon is true to his word and is back along with director Paul Greengrass, who was not only the director of that one, but also Supremacy, Green Zone and Captain Phillips with Tom Hanks.J
Jason Bourne is set several years after Ultimatum and the reclusive and amnesiac spy suddenly resurfaces at a time when the world is faced with unprecedented instability. Bourne is still trying find answers to his past and family but a new program called Ironhand, created to hunt him down, could cut his quest short.
Also returning to the series is Julia Stiles as Nicky Parsons and joining the cast is Tommy Lee Jones and Academy Award-winner Alicia Vikander. Although Damon has returned to the film series, there is speculation that there will be other movies that will feature Jeremy Renner’s character.
From the writers of The Hangover series comes Bad Moms starring Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell and Kathryn Hahn as three surburban moms fed up with their stressful and boring mom-duty rountines. Christina Applegate is the ruthless head of the PTA group that finally pushes the trio over the edge and into a wild rebellion against conformity. Going on a wild binge of long-overdue freedom, fun and self-indulgence, they run afoul of the PTA and the clique of devoted perfect moms.
This comedy features slapstick comedy, foul language and, as the title suggests, bad behaviour from the three leads which should provide an escape for those women (and men) who wish a night off from a life of political correctness.
In techno-thriller Nerve, Emma Roberts (We’re the Millers) and Dave Franco (Now You See Me) star as a pair of young adults who are drawn into an online game of “truth or dare” which features an escalating series of staged events that become more dangerous and life threatening. Also starring Juliette Lewis, it is based upon the novel of the same name. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/entertainment/388303481.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/9dc370bfcaeadd14eb9e34998b02210361dc1cb41d845636ba3e086e27634be6.json |
[
"Warren Henderson"
] | 2016-08-26T13:14:15 | null | null | Trained in the U.S., Conor Richard has been solid for B.C. Football Conference team since joining the Sun in July | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fsports%2F390625591.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/24393kelownaconor.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Canadian-born Tennessean makes impact with Sun | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Sun defensive back Conor Richard was born in St. John, New Brunswick but moved to Tennessee as a young child.
Just days before he joined the Okanagan Sun, Conor Richard had never heard of a place called Kelowna, B.C., Canada.
Less than two months later, the 18-year-old from Clarksville, Tennessee is making himself right at home in the Okanagan.
"I don't know how anyone could get stressed out living here," said the affable Richard, who grew up 40 minutes from Nashville. "(Kelowna's) a beautiful place. I have no complaints."
And it's a good bet that the Sun have no complaints with Richard who has quickly made a name for himself in the B.C. Football Conference.
Lining up at defensive back and on special teams, the 5-foot-11, 205 pound Richard has been an impact player for the Sun, making eight tackles, intercepting a pass and blocking two kicks.
Playing football in the U.S. since the age of five, Sun head coach Ben Macauley said Richard came to Kelowna well-equipped with both skill and a keen knowledge of game.
His biggest challenge has been adjusting to the Canadian version of the sport, but Macauley said Richard's progress has been steady.
"He's had a lot of good coaching, so he's very fundamentally sound," said Macauley. "He's still learning the Canadian game, 75 per cent of the U.S. game is running, so he's not used to as much passing.
"But he's phenomenal young man, we knew it was just matter of time before he really found his way in the game here. He's just 18, so he's just starting to scratch the surface of how good he can be."
Born in St. John, New Brunswick and carrying dual Canadian-American citizenship, Richard moved to Tennessee with his family when he was an infant.
Sought after by a number of U.S. colleges during high school, but unsure of his football future, Richard moved north to Fort McMurray this spring to live with his dad, Greg.
The elder Richard, a former football player himself, inquired with one of his ex-teammates—Calgary Dinos assistant coach, Greg Antsey—about potential openings for his son.
Antsey then contacted Sun defensive coordinator Nathan Mollard, and days later, just prior to the start of the 2016 season, Richard was on a plane to Kelowna.
In addition to learning the cultural differences between life in Tennessee and the Okanagan, playing junior football in Canada has also been an eye opener.
"It's a little different, the field is bigger, you have receivers in motion and the game is a little more strategic up here," he said. "The speed of the (U.S.) game is faster, and a little more aggressive, teams try and run the ball down your throat. It's different, but I'm having fun with it."
Playing in Kelowna has helped rekindle Richard's passion for the game and he's now contemplating his future in football, most likely one day returning to the U.S. to play.
But for now, the 18-year-old Tennessean is grateful for the chance to play Canada's junior game.
"Competition-wise it's different, but it's an honourable league, I can still get a good look here, and keep playing football," he said. "I'm still young really young, I don't have to come to any quick decisions, and I can take some time to figure out what I want to do.
"This turned out to be a pretty good situation for me," he said. "Change is always good."
Richard and the Sun (4-0) will put their unbeaten record on the line Saturday night when they play host to the Kamloops Broncos (0-4). Kick off at the Apple Bowl is 7 p.m. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/sports/390625591.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/652721be60c9bd493128855da0b35a7a01a6c3499b9953e37d16a69b9b1719c7.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T18:50:36 | null | null | Health Care in 2040 presented by Imagine Kelowna Speaker Series, 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 29. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391425601.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/10912winfieldKGHCentennialBldgweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Future of health care in the Central Okanagan | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | If doctors today are growing ears in Petri dishes, imagine what the future of health and health care could look like.
Technological innovation and advancements in medicine will change the nature of our health care system and our community needs to be prepared.
During the afternoon Kelowna city council meeting on Monday, Aug. 29, Interior Health board chair Erwin Malzer and Interior Health CEO Chris Mazurkewich will present Health Care in 2040 as part of the Imagine Kelowna Speaker Series.
The talk will focus on the opportunities and challenges the Canadian health care system will face due to a growing and aging population, rising cost burdens related to chronic disease and advances in technology.
Malzer has served on the Interior Health Board of Directors since 2007, and was appointed as board chair in January 2015. He has a Bachelor of Commerce and a Master of Business Administration degree, and is a former business consulting partner with IBM.
Mazurkewich was appointed as president and CEO of Interior Health in October 2015. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce, a Master of Administration in Health, and a Chartered Accountant designation.
A live-stream of the discussion starts at 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 29.
This council presentation is part of the Imagine Kelowna Speaker Series, through which topic experts share their knowledge and experience on trends and planning for the future.
To learn more and be part of the city-wide conversation, visit imagine.kelowna.ca. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391425601.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/5dace69fad1e1f266b916bd2e5943ecebf13069c6603c66d6f62bf91e1c2de6a.json |
[
"Bobbi Moger"
] | 2016-08-26T13:08:57 | null | null | With a disability you might find yourself caught in vicious cycle of limited mobility and decreased physical activity. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F388289411.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Moger: Exercising with a disability | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | “He who has health has hope, and he who has hope has everything.”
—Unknown
Not only can spending hours in a wheelchair or bed be uncomfortable, but it also leads to weak muscles, joint and muscle stiffness, weight gain and weakened heart and lungs.
If you’re an individual experiencing a physical disability, you might find yourself caught in vicious cycle of limited mobility and decreased physical activity accompanied by weight gain.
The more weight you gain, the harder it becomes to exercise. The more inactive you become, the more weight you gain. And so the cycle goes, one that can be very frustrating and discouraging.
Being overweight is only one problem. Being overweight also greatly increases the risks for other health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, cancer and sleep apnea. With this in mind, it’s very significant to find an exercise and healthy eating program that can help with your weight maintenance and/or weight loss.
While moving as much as possible is important for anyone with weak or disabled legs, how do you accomplish this when many exercises involve the use of functioning legs? Often times individuals who have lost functioning in the legs, arms or other parts of the body become discouraged, believe it is pointless or too difficult to exercise with their disabilities.
There are many ways those with physical impairments can still exercise and be more active:
• An arm cycle or arm ergo meter—a great way to get cardiovascular exercise for those in a wheelchair.
• Water exercise—if you have some leg function water aerobics classes will help improve your cardiovascular and strengthen your legs. If you do not have leg function there is still much you can do for cardio and stretching while using a belt, floating on a noodle or having a partner assist you in exercising the upper body and trunk.
• Chair exercises—Performing resistance exercises with an exercise band or light dumbbells will build bone and muscle strength. You can begin by wrapping your resistance band under your bed or chair to perform bicep curls, triceps extensions, front and side shoulder raises, and shoulder press exercises. Wrap a resistance band from around the back of your chair, grab the handles and push away from your chest to perform a chest press. To work the opposing muscle group wrap the band around a pole and pull the handles towards your body to work the back.
• To gain strength—focus on using a thicker resistance band or dumbbells that you can only lift 10 to 12 times .Perform two to three sets per exercise (resting 30 seconds between sets) three times a week with a day between workouts for muscle recovery.
• Workout videos—easy way to get some exercise by just following along with the routine. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/lifestyles/388289411.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/d7bb2638c5bb111b344a49d1197b307b2d2c62d126b70b326d80bd1975fcba4f.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T20:50:51 | null | null | It seems we are now at a point where the only question being considered is the location of the second crossing. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391432981.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Second Okanagan Lake crossing a foregone conclusion | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
It would be very helpful for proponents of a second crossing to explain precisely why they think this mega-project is a good idea.
The project is being sold to us by the provincial government and Kelowna city council as a solution to traffic congestion, when all evidence from all studies indicate very clearly that this is not a solution.
Why are they lying to us?
At a recent public consultation the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (Central Okanagan Planning Study) distributed a feedback form ostensibly welcoming our comments “regarding future traffic congestion in the Central Okanagan.” The feedback form was titled: ‘The Okanagan Lake Second Crossing Project.'
When I asked the attendees why they were in favour of a second crossing, I was told that they were simply asking for feedback about traffic congestion, and were not for or against the second crossing.
I drew their attention to the title of the public consultation. They had no comment.
In a recent article in the Kelowna Capital News it seems we are now at a point where the only question being considered is the location of the second crossing.
We have yet to hear any evidence-based arguments on the effectiveness of a second crossing. This is because there aren’t any. And this is also why the ministry resorts to public consultations rather than consulting experts. No expert in traffic engineering would recommend expanding highways and building more roads and bridges to ease traffic congestion because it doesn’t work. This is not a secret.
It is, however, what Mark Jaccard, a professor of sustainable energy in the School of Resource and Environmental Management at Simon Fraser University, would call cynical ineffective policy. In other words lies.
The only people who will benefit from a second crossing are the people who will be paid to build and maintain it. The rest of us will pay enormous amounts of tax money for an environmentally regressive project that will require massive maintenance for decades to come and will only increase traffic congestion.
The more room we provide for cars, the more cars will come. If we invested the money a bridge would cost in alternative forms of transportation we could bring more people to the Okanagan without destroying what they come here to enjoy.
The question remains: Why is the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure lying to us?
Neil Cadger, Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391432981.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/c4474e8d03f8ea067fb1c65a84b1f3e579d13dbac0b3b437b493d165f51cb639.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T18:51:32 | null | null | Water test results from last week put the water as safe to swim in | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391622701.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/36009winfieldswimadvisoryweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Swiming/beach water quality advisory lifted for Lake Country's Beasley, Reiswig parks | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | A beach water quality advisory has been lifted for two beaches in Lake Country.
Beach water test results from last week on Wood Lake have improved and the August 19th swimming and beach water quality advisory has been removed for Beasley Park and Reiswig Park on Wood Lake.
According to Interior Health, lake water is not pristine, and beach water quality can fluctuate due to a number of factors including lake currents, runoff and the outflow of creeks, changing environmental factors and waterfowl and animal waste.
The advisory was put in place on August 19 due to poor water quality but has now been taken down.
Additionally, Water Quality is typically poorer in the summer when the warm weather escalates bacterial growth and swimmers stir up the lake bottom.
A Swimming Advisory is a notice to swimmers that bacterial levels are currently higher than those allowed in the Guidelines for Canadian Recreational Water Quality. The maximum allowable number of E. coli bacteria in recreational water is 200 per 100-millilitre sample. IHA recommends an advisory when the bacterial counts geometric mean is high over a period of multiple samples.
For more information on beach water quality, contact Interior Health at 250 862-4200. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391622701.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/b4693d33bf98bc836d1490dd2c7e0531e49d47a1f7109036969f37c0a0d0c5b0.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:13:25 | null | null | Newfoundland, where everything is brought to the island by ship, is paying $1.15 per litre. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F390594831.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Politicians-Get off you bums and fix our gas prices | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Letter: Politicians: Get off you bums and fix our gas prices
To the editor:
I am continually amazed that we in the Okanagan Valley are taken advantage of every day.
As I am currently in Ontario for a few weeks, I find gas prices ranged from 90 cents per litre to 94 cents per litre.
What I notice here is the amount of competition among all the different gas stations. Unlike the Okanagan Valley where gas prices are fixed by the distributor and/or fixed by oil company management, the fact is, there seems to be no one with a spine to stop these greedy bastards.
Oil is at an all-time low and we are paying the highest prices in the country by 26 cents per litre. Newfoundland, where everything is brought to the island by ship, is paying $1.15 per litre. Victoria B.C. is paying $1.12 per litre.
When asked why we are getting the big shaft, we are told it is the cost of freight. What bull. Our gas comes from Kamloops, 166 km away. London’s gas comes from Sarnia which is 112 km away.
So, maybe it is time for the people of this valley to start calling their elected officials and tell them in no uncertain terms to get off their ass and start doing something about these inflated fixed gas prices here in the valley taking place right under their noses.
I realize the politicians don’t give a damn as their gas is paid for by us, the taxpayer. Election time is around the corner and it is high time we started asking some serious questions and demanding some serious results from these pigs at the trough we are paying six figure plus incomes to and golden pensions.
Ian MacLean, Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/390594831.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/3a7640923fe4ded7c446926c83987c6f379920f8faf0005180c1d75a0194629d.json |
[
"Nick Black"
] | 2016-08-26T20:49:44 | null | null | Three principles to build your strength and enjoyment of bicycle riding. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F391439481.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Physio: Tips for healthy cycling | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Cycling orchard-lined roads, touring between vineyards, cruising the Kettle valley railway, flowing down trails at Smith Creek, or eagerly awaiting completion of the Okanagan rail trail—cycling offers something for everyone in the beautiful Okanagan.
After an injury or surgery, my patients commonly ask: “Do you think I’m ready to get back on my bike?”
More often than not, the answer is yes. The bicycle is such a fantastic tool for rehabilitation and exercise, producing low impact forces on the body, while promoting lower limb range of motion and strength. However, whether your goal is rehabilitation, fitness, competing in the next triathlon, or just plain enjoyment, you should be aware of some common aches and pains that can stem from time on your bike.
Necks, backs and knees are the most common areas of complaint from cyclists.
Sure, cycling is low impact but it can also require long periods of time in sustained postures. When a muscle is in a prolonged contraction its blood flow is limited, its pH level drops becoming more acidic, at which time the muscle will begin to fatigue and complain.
Experiencing muscle fatigue and mild pain is a normal process of getting stronger, however only when balanced with adequate recovery time. Prolonged load beyond your tissues tolerance and inadequate recovery time are the primary reasons for injuries on the bike.
If you’re new to cycling or getting back on the bike after a long hiatus, I would encourage you to adhere to the following three principles.
1. Get your bike properly fitted to you. A well fitted bike creates an efficient posture, significantly reducing unwanted loading on your neck, back and knees. Your local bike store can guide you in this process.
2. Start low and build slow. Gradually increasing the load on your bodies tissues and allowing recovery after a ride will allow your tissues to adapt, becoming more tolerant to prolonged postures on the bike.
3. Develop your core strength. The concept of ‘core strength’ is an over promoted concept but when it comes to cycling, having strong gluts and lower back muscles will help to maintain an efficient posture for producing power through the legs and minimizing strain on your back in the process. Consider consulting a physiotherapist or exercise professional for a few core strengthening exercises that can be performed off the bike two to three times a week.
The benefits of cycling far outweigh any of the potential aches and pains mentioned above. Train smartly by adhering to the above principles and continue to experience the joys of cycling in the Okanagan. Maybe I’ll see you at next year's Apple triathlon? | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/lifestyles/391439481.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/9f1e118dba1a78561343e4d86cda03fa7ff20ef01b988dbe24eb74691e2817d3.json |
[] | 2016-08-28T14:51:11 | null | null | Conference will bring speakers in from Canada, U.K. and U.S., feature workshops and a marketplace. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391450341.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Large genealogy conference slated for Kelowna in September | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Claire Smith-Burns
contributor
People are curious about their ancestral story.
Researching family history is a pastime that is snowballing in popularity. Who hasn’t seen the ancestry ads or the many genealogy-themed TV series, family history magazines on the newsstands or advertisements for DNA testing?
With the acceleration of digitization projects, the gratifying speed of email correspondence and a plethora of genealogy websites, discovering your family history is achievable for all of us.
For more than 30 years, the Kelowna and District Genealogical Society has been helping people to discover their ancestral heritage.
The society has hosted the biennial Harvest Your Family Tree Conference since 1996. This event has grown into one of the largest family history conferences in Western Canada.
With a roster of workshops and activities from Sept. 23 to 25, this year’s conference promises to be bigger, better and more inspiring than ever.
Featuring 10 acclaimed speakers from the U.K., U.S. and Canada presenting 33 workshops, whether you are just beginning your family history journey or are a seasoned researcher, there will be valuable information to advance your family history quest.
Some of the world’s top genealogical experts will be there including Texas-based Lisa Louise Cooke, host of the popular Genealogy Gems podcast and an expert on using technology to enhance your genealogy search; Audrey Collins, of The National Archives in England, a U.K. research specialist with an international following and Dave Obee one of Canada’s pre-eminent genealogists and a popular speaker and author.
Speakers from Library and Archives Canada, the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, Surrey Public Library (Cloverdale Genealogy Centre) plus several other professionals will share their knowledge.
As well as five workshops on Friday, Sept. 23, there will be 28 workshops to choose from in four concurrent streams on the Saturday. The program has been carefully scheduled to offer something for every interest and level of expertise in each time-slot. Topics range from beginners through to technology, location-specific, DNA, organization, research skills and more.
In addition, there will be a marketplace featuring more vendors and exhibitors than ever before. As our conference’s reputation has grown, it is attracting door prizes and sponsorships from some of the world’s largest genealogy vendors, such as My Heritage, FindMyPast, Ancestry and Family Tree DNA.
The conference will roll out over three days with Friday afternoon’s venue being the downtown Kelowna Library where the KDGS’s Family and Local History Resource Centre is located. The Okanagan Regional Library, UBCO Innovation Centre and the KDGS will be offering tours, workshops and research help. On Friday evening, a Meet the Speakers reception will be held at Okanagan College. Saturday will feature the workshops, marketplace “pop-up” sessions, and more at Okanagan College. On the Sunday, local historian Bob Hayes will lead a walk through Kelowna’s Cultural District complete with special tours of the Okanagan Military Museum and the Kelowna Art Gallery.
Organizers say registrations are coming in quickly and three workshops are already sold out.
To register go to www.KDGS.ca. For more information go to conference@KDGS.ca or call 250-763-7159. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391450341.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/8020f7ac7720493a279e0fafb0ceac497baaa51f2c3e509f3780bb89d81e301d.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T22:51:24 | null | null | Defending BCHL champs play Salmon Arn in preseason action at Royal LePager Place. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fsports%2F391337741.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/66764kelownaWest-Kelowna.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Warriors home to Silverbacks tonight | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | The Canadian junior A champion West Kelowna Warriors play two exhibition games this weekend against Salmon Arm.
The defending champion West Kelowna Warriors continue preparations for the new B.C. Hockey League season with a pair of exhibition games this weekend against the Salmon Arm Silverbacks.
The home-and-home set between the Interior Division rivals begins tonight, 7 p.m. at Royal LePage Place.
The Warriors and 'Backs will meet again Saturday night at the Shaw Centre in Salmon Arm.
Rylan Ferster's club opened its preseason Wednesday at the South Okanagan Events Centre with a 2-0 loss to the Penticton Vees.
Brad Otton and Matt Vernon shared the goaltending duties for West Kelowna, combining for 35 saves on 37 shots.
West Kelowna opens the 2016-17 regular season Friday, Sept. 9 at home to the Trail Smoke Eaters. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/sports/391337741.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/873ab4afb813193357a73e047ca91a8269feca6b5a4d978ddaf26816fda22378.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-29T16:48:57 | null | null | Federal labour minister advised to allow temporary foreign workers as a backup to Canadians as B.C. aims to build LNG plants | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F391580541.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Libs looking at foreign workers for liquefied gas projects | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | OTTAWA – The federal labour minister was told earlier this year to give a positive signal to liquefied natural gas companies on the use of temporary foreign workers, but only if Canadians were considered first for jobs.
Labour Minister MaryAnn Mihychuk's officials told her in February that it was inevitable that companies would need temporary foreign workers to proceed with energy projects in Western Canada.
In a Feb. 1 briefing note, Mihychuk's officials write that the federal government can speed up how quickly it processes applications for temporary foreign workers, but couldn't waive requirements for liquefied natural gas projects.
The briefing note, prepared ahead of Mihychuk's meeting with David Keane, president of the BC LNG Alliance, recommends "signal support" for temporary foreign workers "on the condition that Canadians are considered first for available jobs ... and only used as a measure of last resort."
The Canadian Press obtained a copy of the briefing note under the Access to Information Act.
In an interview, Keane said Mihychuk didn't give any indication of how the government would decide on the issue of foreign workers involved in projects. He said the message Mihychuk provided was that the government wanted to review the temporary foreign worker program.
He didn't want to speculate about what the message from department officials may mean for the fate of projects that require federal approval.
Thousands of temporary foreign workers are expected to be needed to work on any of the 20 separate liquefied natural gas projects being reviewed in British Columbia, including the Pacific Northwest LNG project that the federal cabinet has to decide on this fall.
The briefing note says unions are unlikely to speak out publicly about the use of temporary foreign workers because they know the majority of jobs will go to union members and that Canadians will be first in line for jobs.
Keane said the plan is to hire a workforce derived from local aboriginal communities and provincial residents before looking across Canada.
"There will be probably a requirement, and I think everybody recognizes this, for temporary foreign workers to be able to build this industry, but we have a plan in place and are developing the plan and refining the plan to make sure that we look at Canadians first before we bring in temporary foreign workers," Keane said.
Jordan Press, The Canadian Press | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/business/391580541.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/facdde9c6da8238ad6e305fe33de7cf9b7b95d0e8673ccb9f145a8a718bfb498.json |
[
"Vanessa Dedominicis"
] | 2016-08-26T13:09:42 | null | null | An personal representative must be ready at all times to account for a trust property. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2F390468411.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | DeDominicis: Role of personal representative in probating estate | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | The personal representative (executor/administrator/trustee) has a stringent duty to keep detailed records of all capital, expense and income transactions with documents, invoices and receipts. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/390468411.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/daa0162118de52ac73ee061128616909e69e4b7c003fde49103d11b275bfb8b6.json |
[
"Alistair Waters"
] | 2016-08-26T22:50:35 | null | null | Mayor Doug Findlater says some residents have contacted council concerned about building a new city hall before improving water quality. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391443011.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/17386kelownaWKCityof.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | West Kelowna trying to separate current water quality issues and new city hall plan | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | West Kelowna
West Kelowna wants it residents to know the cost of a new city hall will not come from the same source as funds currently being collected and set aside for future improvements to its Lakeview water system.
With the upcoming referendum on borrowing $7.7 million for a new $14 million city hall set to go Sept. 17, and the city’s first water quality advisory currently in place impacting Lakeview water system users,
West Kelowna's mayor says his council has been hearing from the public about the the perceived impact spending on a new city hall would have on future water system improvements.
"They are asking that water improvements come before our new city hall,” said Mayor Doug Findlater. “But what people should know is we have already planned for the improvements to this (water) system with a new treatment plant at the Rose Valley reservoir slated for construction in 2022 or earlier."
He said planning for that plant will start next year.
According to Findlater, the infrastructure improvement is already in the city's capital plan, as are all the other water system improvements listed in West Kelowna's water master plan, adopted in 2013.
"Investments in water infrastructure are primarily funded by those who benefit from the improvements rather than by the general tax base," said the city in a news release issued Thursday.
It said any water system improvement will be paid for primarily by users of the system, in the same way Westbank water system users paid higher water rates for many years to support the construction of the Powers Creek treatment plant in 2007. That plant has improved water quality in the Westbank and Glenrosa area markedly.
The Power Creek plant cost $18.1 million and uses state-of-the-art, multi-layered treatment to produce water with a turbidity level of less than 0.3 nephelometric turbidity units (NTU) throughout the year. Water with turbidity levels of less the one NTU is considered good quality.
The city says it will also apply development cost charge funding towards construction of a new treatment plant,and will seek provincial or federal grants.
Westbank system users continue to pay much higher rates than other West Kelowna residents to repay the $11 million debt needed to supplement the cost of construction of the Powers Creek treatment plant.
Current turbidity levels in water from the Rose Valley reservoir are still being being measured at 1.3 NTU, a level that prompted the water quality advisory from the city for Lakeview water system users earlier this month. That advisory remains in place and recommends boiling water to be used for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth and washing food for at least a minute before use.
The higher turbidity levels in the Rose Valley reservoir are being blamed on the wet, unstable weather in June and July, which has led to algae blooms in the water.
With the campaign now underway to win public approval to borrow millions for a new city hall—to be part of a new civic centre project on Elliott Road in Westbank—the city wants to separate the water treatment issue from the plan for a new city hall.
“Council understands the concerns people are raising about our financial situation, including questions about our use of our reserves,” said Findlater.
“But we have put a great deal of effort into establishing a solid financial footing, including securing our reserves and getting a handle on the multitude of infrastructure needs we face."
He said the city has prepared many master plans and established a minimum reserve policy to ensure the city's financial future is secure and its capital needs are met.
"In fact, council delayed building a new city hall in the early days of incorporation for this very reason,” added Findlater.
The city does not have a single emergency reserve, but rather a number of reserves established to mitigate current and future risks, ensure stable tax rates and demonstrate financial commitment to long range infrastructure and master plans, said the mayor. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391443011.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/8f0c4830f01097d3d29ec7f8c22c390bce4d50f329ef2ac42e4c743e9047df12.json |
[
"Maxine Dehart"
] | 2016-08-31T00:49:15 | null | null | Jun (Alexander) Bao has joined Dr. Jeff Pereverzoff at Kelowna Family Chiropractic. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F391804461.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/16210kelowna31dehart1web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | DeHart: New indiginous winery opens on the Westside | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Indigenous World Winery, owned and operated by Westbank First Nations Chief Robert Louie and his wife Bernice, has opened at 2218 Horizon Drive in West Kelowna.
The indigenous first peoples of the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys are the Okanagan Syilx people. They have lived on, and protected, these lands for hundreds of years. Louie and his wife are descendants of the Syilx people and are connected to the land and its rich history. Indigenous World merges modern culture with Indigenous history.
The new winery offers a beautiful tasting room with many distinctive First Nations items for purchase, the aboriginal inspired Red Fox Club restaurant which boasts a large patio and beautiful view for lunch and dinner and a picnic area. The restaurant is open seven-days-a-week. Along with being an accomplished musician, gifted winemaker, Jason Parks is a hands-on basic technique old-school winemaker.
The concept for Indigenous and wine making started in 2011 with grapes from 2 1/2 acres on-site and the remainder from Oliver and Osoyoos. Chef Andrea Callan uses local greenhouses, farms, cheesemakers and purveyors for a menu which is designed with Native influences and wine pairings. Dishes range from a variety of cheese, meat, game, fish and seafood served on unique wood boards to crispy salmon fritters, bison burgers and braised beef ribs. I tried the bison burger with salad and it was absolutely delicious. Indigenous has already won several wine awards. The 2012 Simo which means “connected to the land” is Louie’s Indian name, given to him by his grandmother and the 2013 Hee-Hee-Tel-Kin red blend which means “rare stag with large antlers-elusive one” is their son’s Trenton’s Indian name. Ryan Walley is the general manager of Indigenous World. Call 778-755-2242.
If you are looking for fresh sweet corn, you will not take home corn fresher than this. I drove down the long driveway at the corner of Benvoulin and Cooper Road (corn sign) and Derek Pahl greeted me. He asked how many cobs I wanted and then walked right into his corn field and picked them right off the stock. The corn was absolutely delicious and I was able to buy local as well. Open Monday to Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Kootenay Coffee Co., owned and operated by Tom Clarke has opened a coffee shop in the Willow Park Shopping Centre in Rutland. This new location features gourmet espresso that will also be used in many specialty coffee drinks, roasting their own organic coffee. The shop will also serve high-end baked goods; breakfast wraps and snacks from Gum Tree Catering out of Vernon. Kootenay Coffee also has a coffee house at 1019 Richter Street in the north end of town. Open seven days a week. www.kootenaycoffee.com.
Kettle Valley Market has opened in Kettle Valley at Unit 101—5315 Main Street on the backside of the centre, next to the liquor store. Owned and operated by Trevor Penn who relocated from Vancouver, the grocery store/market offers just about anything you need at fair and comparative pricing. This neighbourhood store sells everyday convenience foods of bread, milk, eggs and canned goods. They also have a frozen food section, ice cream, a large cheese section with Saputo and Dairyland products. Meats come from Mission Meats and they also offer household bathroom products and cleaning supplies. If you have a sweet tooth there is a candy section and slushes. Trevor is open to suggestions of adding any items that his customers might recommend. It’s a one-stop shop and very convenient for Kettle Valley and nearby residents. The market is conveniently open Monday to Saturday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 778-477-6626.
Jun (Alexander) Bao from the Richmond Pain Research Centre has joined Dr. Jeff Pereverzoff and Kelowna Family Chiropractic, 11-2121 Springfield Road. Jun is a highly trained traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who practices in acupuncture, acupressure, cupping and herbal supplementation. Trained as a medical doctor in China with more than 17 years in his field, he will focus on his specialty of cancer care, gynecological disease, infertility and pain relief. Call 250-868-1167 www.kelownafamilychiro.com.
Tourism Kelowna has a new sport and event sales manager. Harvey Hubball, a graduate of UBCO in international relations has been travelling through and working in 12 different countries in Asia, Europe and the Pacific. He is originally from Bowen Island. Call 250-861-1515 ext. 209 or harvey@tourismkelowna.com.
After 10 years with the Kelowna Yacht Club as finance manager, Nicole Faust is leaving the club on Sept. 2. She is joining Bacas Family Estates in the position of controller. Nicole formerly worked for Bacas before joining the Yacht Club.
The Royal Canadian Legion is in need of volunteers for food service Oct. 1 at Parkinson Recreation Centre for the Raise the Roof dance. It requires a lead person plus five more volunteers. If you can help our seniors and vets call Art at 778-436-9665.
Popular Bliss Bakery, owned and operated by Darci and Barry Yeo, has opened a new location in West Kelowna, at 210 – 3608 Carrington Road, (corner of Butt Road), across from Winners. They also have a locations downtown on Ellis Street, in Peachland and a Grab-and-Go location on Stevens Road in the industrial park in West Kelowna. All their products are made in-house with traditional artisan methods. Bliss makes their own soups from their own stock. Two of their most popular items are tree hugger cookies and cream cheese cinnamon buns.
With a location in Vernon for 12 years, Sundance Taekwon-do will open its second location at 150 Asher Road Sept. 6. Owner David White, a fifth-degree black belt says they teach Taekwon-do to all levels and send students to competitions. It offers classes for ages two and up, with special programs for kids aged four to seven, teens, adults and tots, as well as 55-plus and families. It is involved with the International Taekwon-do Federation (ITF) Children’s Development Program, which goes beyond teaching just kwon-do to kids, it encompasses teaching them life values. Andy Leung, also a fifth-degree black belt is the head instructor and Erin Bull, a third-degree black belt is the program director and instructor. Erin is a kinesiology student at UBCO. Register on line or by phone or call 778-215-5425 for more information. www.sundancemartialarts.com.
The Kelowna Palatte Club has a new board and executive for the next two years. Congratulations to Eva Eshpeter (president), Mairead Sikkes (vice-president), Norma Thomas (secretary), Janice Schwartz (treasurer), Marilyn Bury (programs), Gerry Chambers and C. J. Campbell. Contact Eva at evaeshpeter@gmail.com.
The Sears National Kids Cancer Ride will pass through Kelowna to rally the community to open their hearts, get involved and make a donation in support of children living with, and beyond, cancer. The riders, cycling coast to coast, will stop at Sears in Orchard Park Mall Sept. 7 at 6 p.m. Come meet the riders, have some snacks and join in the fun as they set out from the mall at 8 p.m. For details and how to join in, call Sears store manager, David Clark at 250-860-3682 ext. 400.
Join Bob Thompson for the Parkinson SuperWalk 2016 on Sept. 10 at Waterfront Park. To register or donate visit www.parkinson.bc.ca/SuperWalk.
The 15th annual KGHF Classic Tennis and Bocce By the Lake goes Sept. 16 and 17 at 2302 Abbott Street. This year, the tournament is honouring Johnny Vesterinen and Paul Byrne. This popular fun event was founded and has been hosted for the last 15 years by Walley and the late Marietta Lightbody. Over the past 14 years, $710,000 has been contributed towards lifesaving cardiac equipment at KGH. For more information or to register call 250-862-4300 (7152) or Bettina.muller@interiorhelath.ca.
Happy 53 anniversary Rick and Dee Essler (Sept. 2).
The sixth annual B.C. Thanksgiving Food Drive goes Saturday, Sept. 17. Here’s how it works. Volunteers will drop off donation bags to individual homes Sept. 12 to 16. Residents are asked to fill the bags and place them on their doorstep by 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 17. Volunteers will collect the bags and deliver them to local food banks. No cash contributions are solicited. Contact Debbie Morris at morrisfamily90@hotmail.com www.bctfooddrive.org.
Birthdays of the week: Happy 100th Reinhart Busch (Aug. 22); Garry Appleton (Aug. 29); Rosanne Ting-Mak Brown (Aug. 31); Debra Fletcher (Aug. 31); Valaura Vedan (Sept. 2); Gail Magrath (Sept. 6); Fran Houston (Sept. 1); Dennis Gabelhouse (Sept. 3); former Kelowna mayor Walter Gray, (Sept.4); John Marritt (Sept. 4); Jo Wright (Sept. 4); Sharon Bazil (Sept. 5); Betty Russell (Sept. 6); In memory of Russ Light (Sept. 5). | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/business/391804461.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/b11d489a4132cc83a39dbeb7196648acac3553db7364663075baff8db7d207b2.json |
[
"Warren Henderson"
] | 2016-08-30T20:52:13 | null | null | Former Okanagan Rockets player, who spends his summers in Kelowna, is excited to join the WHL club | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fsports%2F391785491.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/8357kelownakryski.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Kryski at home with Rockets | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | New Rockets forward Jake Kryski had 39 points in 67 games with the Kamloops Blazers last season.
When the Kelowna Rockets acquired him from the Kamloops Blazers, it represented, in many ways, a homecoming for Jake Kryski.
The 18-year-old Vancouver native not only played with the B.C. Major Midget League's Okanagan Rockets in 2012-13, but has spent the last three summers living in Kelowna with his family.
So when word came earlier this month that he had been dealt to Kelowna for defencemen Joe and Danny Gatenby, it felt like a comfortable fit for the 5-foot-11, 188-pound forward.
"I'm pretty excited to be coming to such a great organization," said Kryski. "Now that I'm living in Kelowna during the summers, it really will be like playing at home.
"It's pretty big knowing my way around town, I'm familiar with most things, so I won't need to use Google maps anymore," he added with a laugh.
With the graduation of the high-scoring Tyson Baillie and the likely departures of Rourke Chartier and Justin Kirkland to the pro ranks—a trio which combined for 99 goals last season—the Rockets were in need of some reinforcement at forward this season.
In two years with the Blazers, Kryski showed some offensive potential with 23 goals and 40 assists in 132 games.
Now, as an 18-year-old heading into this third season, assistant GM Lorne Frey expects Kryski to be a key contributor for the Rockets.
"We're certainly hoping he brings us some offense," Frey said of Kryski. "He's a skilled player, he's got great speed and good vision. He's gives us some much-needed depth up front.
"We think he's going to continue to improve," Frey said. "We're hoping a change of environment will help him grow and develop."
Kryski admitted to needing a change of scenery after two years with the Blazers and plans to make the most of his newest chapter of his junior career.
"Some of the guys leaving here were really good leaders and good scorers, so I hope I can add some scoring," he said. "I just want to bring some energy and do whatever I can to help the team win."
Highly-touted coming out of midget hockey with the Okanagan Rockets, Kryski was somewhat disappointed this past summer when he was passed over the NHL entry draft.
He's already using that omission as motivation for the 2016-17 season.
"I was a little disappointed, I guess I didn't quite have the year I needed to (in 2015-16) so that contributed to it a little bit," Kryski said. "That motivated me and from the draft on I've worked a lot harder at my game. I hope to have a better year this year and get some eyes watching."
Frey said Kryski will help bolster a forward group led this season by the likes of veterans Nick Merkley (expected back from injury in October), Dillon Dube, Calvin Thurkauf, Tomas Soustal, Rodney Southam and Kole Lind.
Competition for remaining jobs up front is stiff, with Jack Cowell, 17, and Cal Foote, 16, among the newcomers who are in the running to crack the roster.
Frey said success on offence this season would could well hinge on a scoring-by-committee approach.
"We haven't had early picks in the (bantam) draft the last few years, so we haven't been able to land a high-end forward," said Frey. "We're going to have to rely on everybody to pick it up as a group. We'll need everyone contributing." | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/sports/391785491.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/1d822d9f99e3a9c0e40ed9ac1b712f14a9ef8db71abc50c2a9d5ceb766406a54.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:54:50 | null | null | Deborah Koenker: Grapes and Tortillas has an open house at the Kelowna Art Gallery on Aug. 18. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F389084911.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/66523kelownaEXH_Shrine_installation_web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | KAG exhibition looks at Okanagan's Mexican labourers | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | With a bounty of fresh fruit being offered at local markets and stands across the Okanagan Valley at this time of year, have you ever stopped to consider just how it all gets there?
A new exhibition at the Kelowna Art Gallery focuses on the 2,000 temporary agricultural workers from Mexico hired each year by the Okanagan Valley’s fruit orchards, vineyards, and plant nurseries. The installation is entitled Deborah Koenker: Grapes and Tortillas. It is intended by the artist as a tribute to and a celebration of the hard work and the personal sacrifices of these migrant workers.
Visitors can explore the varied aspects of Koenker’s immersive installation, including 160 photographic portraits of these men and women, as well as a giant curtain made from orchard netting threaded with 2,000 coloured ribbons—a visual reference to Mexican shrines and acknowledgement of the number of workers here.
In addition, there is a nod to a Mexican kitchen that also serves to convey the story of Doña Vicky, an activist from Oaxaca. Also, viewers will see a shrine-like area, centred on an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe, who is the patron saint of Mexico. Additionally, there is an 80-foot long Tortilla Wall piece comprised of photographs, and strung with barbed wire, which is accompanied by quotations from a poem called 187 REASONS MEXICANOS CAN’T CROSS THE BORDER by Juan Felipe Herrera, the current US poet laureate.
With all these components and more, the artist hopes to give viewers some sense of the issues around the situation of these workers as well as a taste of the culture of Mexico.
Deborah Koenker is a Vancouver-based interdisciplinary artist with interests in writing and curatorial projects. She has an extensive record of exhibitions in Canada, the United States and Mexico. Her education consists of a BFA from the University of California, Santa Barbara, post graduate work at Central Saint Martins in London, England and has an MFA from Claremont Graduate University in Claremont, California.
The exhibition is accompanied by a richly illustrated, 152-page, full-colour catalogue with four texts.
Fiesta Mexicana, Aug. 18.
To complement this exhibition, a Fiesta Mexicana has been scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 18, from 7 to 9 p.m. The public is invited for an evening of celebration to enjoy the company of Sandy Diaz Hart, activist and co-founder of the El Faro Society (For Agricultural Workers in the Okanagan), along with some of the workers.
Learn more about life for the temporary agricultural workers in the Okanagan while enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine and music.
Deborah Koenker: Grapes and Tortillas will be on view until Oct. 30.
The Kelowna Art Gallery is located at 1315 Water St. in Kelowna's Cultural District. For more information about current exhibitions, public programming or special events, please visit the Kelowna Art Gallery online or call 250-762-2226. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/entertainment/389084911.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/eb547a899fb1089317a8185209d0e342d2b01e7201867794a0685273d1dd089a.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T13:08:44 | 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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.com/lifestyles/389536851.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/e5ca91ad6e09cff52dcafe7d7e4f0deda84692d2a9b3b606907b8a5135d978dd.json |
[
"Gwen Steele"
] | 2016-08-26T18:50:16 | null | 2016-08-04T00:00:00 | For fast-draining, sandy soil, adding organic matter is important to increase nutrients and retain moisture. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F391337511.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/66652kelowna2016-08-0416-03-55-0011web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Steele: Alternatives to a grass garden | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | June-blooming blue grama grass looks attractive in a flower bed. It also makes an excellent, tall, lawn grass alternative if left in bloom. It can be mowed once or more a year.
Here are some alternatives to create a lawn-like look without the weekly chores of mowing and edging or the cost of heavy watering needed for a green, conventional lawn.
Before planting, remove all weeds and keep the area weeded while new plantings grow in.
To break up clay and improve drainage in heavy soil, till in a four inch depth of organic matter such as Glenmore Grow or OgoGrow.
For fast-draining, sandy soil, adding organic matter is important to increase nutrients and retain moisture.
All plants need regular watering the first year or until they become established. Plants mentioned in this column are deer-proof.
The first two options below would be good if you need a lawn that is heavily used such as for children to play on.
Enviro-Turf: a lawn seed mix containing four tough fescue grasses and perennial rye grass. Their deep roots make this a low water turf option. Once established, it needs a deep watering only once every 10 days to two weeks to stay green during dry summers. It grows slowly so there is less mowing.
Enviro-Turf has been extensively tested for many years on school grounds in the Christina Lake area. It looks almost identical to Kentucky blue grass.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): an Okanagan native perennial that can be used as a very drought tolerant lawn alternative. Fuzzy foliage stays grey-green year round. Plants grow to about 12 inches tall with a white bloom in June, sometimes re-blooming in August. They self-seed readily, helping to fill in to a solid weed-suppressing mass.
Yarrow stands up to foot and animal traffic, however it’s best to mow down flower stems soon after they form, while still soft. Mature stems are tough and pokey, causing discomfort for bare feet and animal paws.
With about three mowings a season, plants can be kept as a short, functional, turf-like ground cover.
Blue grama grass (Bouteloua gracilis): a very fine-textured, water-wise grass native to the short grass prairie grows to 12 to 18 inches tall. If planted six inches apart this clump-forming grass quickly becomes a dense ground cover and can be mowed occasionally to create a lawn. An option would be to just mow paths as needed.
It has very decorative flowers and seed heads that stand up well through winter.
Prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepsis): another short-grass prairie native. This very low maintenance, long-lived plant, forms fine-leaved tussocks that turn burnt orange in fall.
Blue grama and prairie dropseed each respond well to a deep watering once a month during hot, dry weather.
Check www.blue
stem.ca for extensive information on ornamental grasses; how to remove turf; and how to make a low-mow, low-grow, water-wise lawn.
I will be teaching my two-night Introduction to Xeriscape Gardening class Sep. 21, 26, 28 and Oct. 3 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at St Michael and All Angels Cathedral Hall, Kelowna. For details and to register go to: www.okanaganxeriscape.org. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/lifestyles/391337511.html | en | 2016-08-04T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/f1a20c2ad1baafdec046d3f1495b71b5311450d0784b7885bdc25cb55a0979aa.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T18:51:29 | null | null | Changes will be implemented starting Sept. 4 says B.C. Transit. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391624291.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/36350kelownaTransitKelownabuswebcopy.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Kelowna transit to improve bus connections and handyDart service | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Kelowna Regional Transit will improve connections on the local transit system starting next week, says B.C. Transit.
B.C. transit says riders who use the Kelowna Regional Transit system can expect more reliable service starting Sept.r 4.
According to B.C. Transit, in a customer survey conducted in April, improving reliability on the Frequent Transit Network, in which buses run at 15 to 30-minute intervals on routes connecting with local and rapid service, emerged as one of the top priorities for riders.
AS a result, the schedules have been revised on the following routes to enable them to run closer to their scheduled times and meet connections with other routes:
• 4 Pandosy/UBC-O Express
• 6 Glenmore/UBC-O
• 7 Glenmore,
• 8 University/OK College and
• 11 Rutland
All other services, which had been seasonally reduced in the summer, will return to their fall schedules next week.
As well, handyDART service is being improved to meet more of the current demand in Kelowna, with service improving on weekdays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. and being extended on Saturdays until 6 p.m. Currently, the service only operates on Saturdays until 5 p.m. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391624291.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/7fd8660ced6c3c6d4f2f69f2fb34725492f44e7d38620603d9f3ccb8b36c9f90.json |
[
"John Arendt"
] | 2016-08-26T13:07:26 | 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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.com/lifestyles/388492001.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/544e92a1ae187d46716eeb52b436c2e3bb3f5f92fbf0ce19bd2e0d36b1ec376c.json |
[
"Kathy Michaels"
] | 2016-08-26T13:00:06 | null | null | Kelowna born start up finding success in Toronto. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F390596321.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Needed changes in Kelowna's tech sector coming | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | When Dylan Lenz was burned by a lousy tenant, he applied his tech savvy to a real-world problem and started a housing-focused business that’s growing faster than the local rental market has dried up.
“Basically I put my life savings into a rental property in Kelowna and the tenants were bad,” said Lenz.
These “professional tenants” knew how to work the system, he said, ultimately leaving him out four months of time and $22,000 in unpaid rent, repairs and eviction fees.
The setback sent the UBC Okanagan grad into action, proving yet again that necessity is the mother of invention.
“It was a pretty rude wakeup, so 30 days after that tenant was evicted I started the company.”
Naborly is its name, and his partners are fellow UBC Okanagan alum Zeke Kan and Anastasia Fox.
Naborly gives landlords greater insight into whether a potential renter is a risk by analyzing 500 data points.
Looking into things like social media presence, credit scores and rental histories, they’re able to assess the likelihood of a tenant being evicted, paying their rent late, vacating early and damaging the property.
According to Lenz, the program has a 99 per cent success rate. What’s perhaps more relevant is that the public appetite for a product of Naborly’s kind is strong.
The company is seeing revenue of $2,000 per day and they’re hitting about 20 to 50 new landlords daily.
“We’re solving a really unsexy problem,” said Lenz, noting that many small-scale landlords don’t have the power needed to screen clients effectively. “Everyone wants to solve a social media problem or build a travel app. But I was a young landlord and had a background in technology so…we are willing to build a product that isn’t the most interesting, but is useful.”
While they’ve had some initial successes, Lenz points out they need more capital to expand so they’re entering the process of raising another round of funding.
To date, they’ve raised $500,000 and are looking to raise $2 million in seed capital. “We have our lead investor locked in, but we are trying to put the rest of the money together,” he said, noting that they’re focused on securing Canadian investors.
“The goal of this company is not to be acquired by a bigger U.S. firm. We want to build a legitimate Canadian start up company.”
***
Early on in the development of Naborly, Lenz and his partners realized they had to leave Kelowna if they were going to be successful.
“Kelowna is limited if you are a start-up trying to make it,” he said.
Roughly 90 per cent of Naborly’s largest customers are in Toronto and perhaps more importantly, being in a larger city has allowed the company better access to venture capital, an affordable employee base and high quality advisors —all of which exist in Kelowna, said Lenz, but not in the quantity that’s needed.
“When we were in Kelowna we applied to Accelerate Okanagan, and it was almost impossible to get a meeting,” he said.
“When we did, they said, ‘That’s cool, but it’s not a good fit for us.’”
When Naborly moved to Toronto, “everyone was super receptive.”
They’ve found a bounty of clients, and now have 8,500 landlords, representing 100,000 rental units. They also found a much deeper engineering talent pool.
“In Kelowna, Disney, Procera and other successful companies soak up the talent, which makes it hard if you’re just starting up,” Lenz said, explaining that a new company can only offer employees half of what the big companies can.
And then there was the funding. “$500,000 early on is the difference between a company failing and not failing,” he said. “If you look at any successful tech company, none of them have been chosen by the government and none of them have been given grants.”
Lenz believes funding should be based on market demand alone.
Investors, however, are a bit more cautious than they once were.
“The market for tech start ups has changed,” he said.
“For awhile money was running in the streets, but now you can’t get funding without a product or without a customer.”
And the sexy products that are social media-oriented aren’t necessarily a success anymore.
Practicality may be what’s important to look for going forward.
Uber, for example, met a need. Lenz also read a story recently that highlighted a tech company’s solution to shipping tanker conundrums, and has been a big success.
“Who knows, maybe tenant screening will be the next big success,” he said.
***
Although it still hasn’t earned the moniker “tech hub” Kelowna’s politicians continue to work toward making the city more friendly to the industry.
“We are trying to do whatever we can to promote tech in Kelowna,” Mayor Colin Basran said in an interview earlier this year, following an announcement from Accelerate Okanagan that the tech industry was adding $1 billion to the economy annually.
Among the city’s endeavours aimed at bringing tech companies to the shores of Okanagan Lake is the installation of about 13 kms of fibre optic cable to provide high bandwidth data services to a number of city facilities.
The fibre optic cable implementation has provided significant operational cost savings, faster data response time and innovative new ways of providing service.
The city also intentionally over-built the network to include extra optic fibre to accommodate future city needs and be available for lease to move significant amounts of data.
Another piece of the puzzle is the Innovation Centre, which should be completed in November on land the city provided.
Accelerate Okanagan, a business support system for tech companies in the startup or growing phases, will move into the building and find a network of services.
They’ve recently announced a measure aimed at dealing with the lamented funding gap.
Atrium Ventures VCC Inc. (Atrium) created a $5-million investment fund dedicated to nurturing early stage companies in B.C.’s technology sector.
Fund manager Jeff Keen, director of Wheelhouse Management Inc., described it as a “pre-seed/seed stage fund” that will target promising technology ventures looking to secure equity-based growth capital.
Anchored by commitments of
$1 million from the Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust, $750,000 from Interior Savings Credit Union and a growing list of forward-thinking angel investors, Atrium aims to fill a critical gap for early stage tech startups looking to raise equity capital.
“A long-time challenge facing all founders of early stage tech companies and, specifically, companies based in the Okanagan where there is no established venture capital presence, is access to a formalized funding source. Many times these founders are forced to seek capital outside the local community and we aim to change that,” said Keen.
Luanne Chore, CEO of SIDIT, sees the fund as a natural extension of their mandate to support strategic investments in economic development projects in the Southern Interior.
“SIDIT is thrilled to be part of Atrium because it allows us to support economic growth in the region, helping companies at a very early, often tenuous stage,” said Chore. “That’s something that has not always been viable through SIDIT’s traditional fund structure.”
Further lessening the burden on startups, as VCC established through B.C.’s Investment Capital Branch, Atrium investors will receive a 30 per cent refundable B.C. tax credit. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/business/390596321.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/7087ba655f67e5930236f2f632a8a5168b172be7afef521bee08f47296bf76ef.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:12:10 | null | null | RCMP report 18 of 22 break-ins of vehicles were due to unlocked cars | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391316441.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/57961winfield9834394.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Thieves in Lake Country continue to target unlocked vehicles | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | RCMP in Lake Country say vandalism is continuing in the district and remind people to lock their valuables up.
RCMP in Lake Country are noting a spike in theft from motor vehicles and continue to urge owners to lock their vehicles, remove valuables and report suspicious activity to police.
Since August 15th, RCMP in Lake Country have received a staggering 18 reports to police of theft from as many as 22 motor vehicles. The majority of the thefts were committed over night to vehicles parked on the street or in private driveways. The areas most targeted during this time period appear to be Okanagan Centre and the Lakes sub division.
“An alarming 18 vehicles out of the 22 vehicles targeted were left unlocked by their owners,” says Sgt. Jayson Luchash Detachment Commander of the Lake Country RCMP. “Investigators continue to see vehicle owners not only leave their vehicles unlocked, but insecure with valuables left inside which includes purses, wallets, large amounts of cash and personal identification just to name a few items,” he adds.
The RCMP investigation has revealed a possible vehicle of interest, reportedly spotted fleeing from more than one theft scene. The vehicle has been described to police as a dark coloured coupe passenger car, with a loud muffler.
RCMP remind the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to police.
Anyone with any information, or has been victimized and has not yet reported the incident to police is asked to contact the Lake Country RCMP at 250-766-2288. Remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, leaving a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net or by texting your tip to CRIMES (274637) ktown. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391316441.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/2a94e44dd2e35d59de2671d3a26d6730b5153703a713c8178ef7bb63158f52b5.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:14:34 | null | null | Kelowna adds skilled forward from Kamloops Thursday in exchange for two blue liners | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fsports%2F390609081.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/18763kelownatrade.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Rockets acquire Kryski for a pair of Gatenbys | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | The Kelowna Rockets acquired forward Jake Kryski (left) from the Kamloops Blazers for defenceman Joe Gatenby (right) and his brother Danny Gatenby.
With a glut of quality defencemen on their roster, the Kelowna Rockets had some latitude to upgrade their depth at forward for the 2016-17 Western Hockey League season.
On Thursday, the Rockets sent rearguards Joe Gatenby and Danny Gatenby to the Kamloops Blazers in exchange for 18-year-old forward Jake Kryski.
A former first-round bantam draft pick of the Blazers, Kryski is entering his third season in the WHL.
Last season in Kamloops, the 5-foot-11, 175-pound Vancouver native scored 12 goals and 27 assists in 67 games.
As difficult as it was to part with Joe Gatenby, Rockets assistant GM Lorne Frey said it was a deal the club felt it needed to make.
"We had four (1997-born) defencemen and knew we had to pare down in that age group," said Frey. "We wanted to get a high quality forward and Jake happened to be that guy.
"Sometimes you have to give up something to get something. Joe has been very good, one of of our best defencemen the last two seasons, so it's tough to see him go."
With the departures of veteran forwards Tyson Baillie, Rourke Chartier, Cole Linaker and Justin Kirkland, the Rockets will look for Kryski to help fill part of the void.
Kryski is familiar with Kelowna, having played for the B.C. Major Midget League's Okanagan Rockets during the 2013-14 season.
In addition to scoring 48 points in 37 games, Kryski helped the major midget Rockets to a provincial title in 2014 and a bronze medal the Telus Cup national midget hockey championship in Moose Jaw.
The elder Gatenby, 19, was a 2012 bantam draft pick of the Rockets. A steady, stay-at-home defenceman, he played three seasons in Kelowna, scoring five goals and adding 25 assists in 164 regular season games.
"We needed to acquire some offense and (Kamloops) needed help on the back end, so I think both teams are happy with what they got," added Frey.
Younger brother, Danny, 17, split last season between the WHL club and the B.C. Major Midget League's Okanagan Rockets.
With Kelowna, Danny played in 22 games and had one assist.
Kryski will join the Rockets for the 2016 edition of training camp which begins Saturday, Aug. 27 at Prospera Place. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/sports/390609081.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/335856c84f2371cab9e9fff31630185490f4236a92e6c52ac0986f922e26dacf.json |
[
"Kelowna Capital News"
] | 2016-08-26T18:50:39 | null | null | The cyclist crossed in a marked crosswalk equipped with flashing lights, which however were not engaged at the time... | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391426701.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/2046kelownaRCMPDoylecroppedJuly2016web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Kelowna teenager struck while cycling across crosswalk | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | A teenage cyclist was sent to hospital for assessment after colliding with a vehicle Thursday evening in Rutland.
Kelowna Mounties received reports at around 9:10 p.m. Aug. 25, of a cyclist involved collision at the intersection of McCurdy Road and Hollywood Road North.
"Police have determined from witnesses at the scene that the driver of a westbound red Mazda 6 was unable to stop in time before colliding with a cyclist crossing McCurdy Road northbound," said Const. Jesse O'Donaghey, in a press release. "The cyclist, who reportedly appeared out of no-where, crossed in a marked crosswalk equipped with flashing lights, which however were not engaged at the time."
The cyclist, a 16-year-old girl from Kelowna, was transported to hospital by Emergency Health Services for further assessment. RCMP believe that the youth’s injuries were minor and non-life threatening in nature.
The driver, 36-year-old Alberta woman, remained at scene, rendered assistance to the cyclist and fully co-operated with the RCMP investigation. The driver and her passengers did not sustain any injuries, but were shaken by the incident.
“RCMP wish to remind cyclists to always walk their bikes across busy intersections using the crosswalk and while following traffic signals,” said O’Donaghey.
“A bicycle is the smallest vehicle on the road, therefore it is imperative that all cyclists be visible, ride predictably, know how traffic works and communicate with other road users,” adds O’Donaghey.
RCMP do not believe that speed nor alcohol were contributing factors in this crash. Motor Vehicle Act charges are not being recommended at this time.
If you witnessed this collision and have not yet spoken to police you are asked to contact Cst. Katherine Bizier of the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391426701.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/a0347d7fb1afcb91d455a804322c620c8291492fc480466dab521d54bb027c32.json |
[
"Kathy Michaels"
] | 2016-08-26T13:05:23 | null | null | The parade itself brought in an estimated 5,000 people, which is a significant increase from years past. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.com/community/390338261.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/d5c0cca38f1df264771b5f5ae09d22d953bb51c054f40208f647da83123f973d.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:10:15 | null | null | null | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2F389663941.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/favicon2.ico | en | null | Kelowna Capital News | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | null | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/389663941.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/9fa7311492dde6e6708ff78c7e77d54685e32d560558a17b4c7c4f3f2b35d3f8.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T00:50:34 | null | null | A Transport Canada order enabled the flights to resume Friday, Aug. 26. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391459241.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/23271kelownaBCAmbulanceServiceshelicopterweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Emergency flights resume to four B.C. hospitals | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) air ambulance flights operated by Helijet resumed Friday at four hospital helipads, as a result of an exemption order issued late Thursday, Aug. 25, by Transport Canada.
The four hospital helipads are:
• Nanaimo Regional General Hospital
• St. Joseph’s Hospital, Comox
• Sechelt Hospital
• Vancouver General Hospital day flights only. Night flights will continue to be diverted to either the Vancouver Harbour Heliport or Vancouver International Airport, with final patient transport by ground ambulance.
In addition, BCEHS anticipated that flights would resume shortly at the helipad shared by BC Children’s and BC Women’s Hospitals, subject to minor site modifications required by Transport Canada, which BCEHS was immediately addressing. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391459241.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/d0f14ef9fe2bb51f8cf606b0a7948a9d0891c1ea6212f3f7485b7d68bdb0f2fb.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T22:51:35 | null | null | UXO found during mop-up of recent fire near Predator Ridge and stops work. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391656721.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/47344kelownaunexplodedmortarshell.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Vernon firefighters find unexploded object | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | This unexploded ordinance was found while crews were mopping up the fire near Predator Ridge.
contributed
Vernon residents are being reminded of the danger of unexploded ordinances (UXOs) in the area after firefighters from Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) and Wildfire Management Branch made an unexpected discovery while battling the Kokanee Road/Predator Ridge fire this weekend.
Firefighters that were involved in the mop-up stage after the fire was controlled were pulled back to the staging area after a UXO was found by a member of the crew.
Following the discovery of the UXO, RCMP were called to the site to map the coordinates. The Department of National Defense (DND) was also notified, and a UXO recovery team has been assembled.
The area is currently cordoned off and nearby residents have been notified to stay away.
There is the potential for other UXOs surrounding Vernon, including in the Commonage area, on Okanagan Indian Band reserve land, Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park and other rural areas. If discovered, leave the area immediately and call 9-1-1 to report the UXO.
Vernon Morningstar | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391656721.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/6804ac3b05055725c1b97bd73d8bb108475c0172446d31a9940aeb1e87c1b4fd.json |
[] | 2016-08-28T04:51:11 | null | null | Peachland gets second fire in the hills in as many days | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391520221.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Small fire in hills above Peachland | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Small fire in hills above Peachland
A small fire in the hills above Peachland is getting the attention of BC Wildfire service. What BC Wildfire representatives are calling the Antler Beach Fire, is around 0.2 hectares and is being managed with air support and six firefighters. It's showing mostly rank 1 fire behaviour, say wildfire representatives.
You might like ... | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391520221.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/432b44a7b50867e4a4495e28f6eb2e59f978911ae64b387eee107693b0b7c8fc.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-28T22:51:17 | null | null | Talks continue, with rotating overtime ban set to begin Monday if no agreement by midnight Sunday | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391545211.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/68221BCLN200782072cranbrookdailyCPweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Postal workers union give details of job action if no deal is reached Sunday | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | OTTAWA – Contract talks continue between Canada Post and its largest union, but neither side is hinting as to whether any progress has been made.
A federally appointed mediator has been meeting with the two sides since Friday to try to reach a deal.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers says if there is no deal by midnight, it would begin job action on Monday by having its members refusing to work overtime on a rotating basis, starting in Alberta and the Northwest Territories.
CUPW served 72 hour strike notice Thursday night, accusing Canada Post of forcing a labour disruption by refusing to bargain in good faith.
The two sides have been deadlocked for months on the issues of pay scales for rural letter carriers and proposed changes to pensions for future employees.
A CUPW news release says the initial job action will cause little disruption to Canada Post customers and that its members will still be delivering mail every day.
The Canadian Press | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391545211.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/e3919aea41cae9209e28352bafdd1e20c7d2ae8f50e7253aba4d3f0cf3781346.json |
[
"Paul Latimer"
] | 2016-08-26T13:10:04 | null | null | …there does seem to be a relationship between regular marijuana use during adolescence and psychotic symptoms that can persist. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2F391083111.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Latimer: Marijuana and its effects on adolescents | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | As we continue to move down the road to legalizing cannabis for medicinal and recreational use, we must also continue to research its effects—both the potentially therapeutic and the potentially harmful.
For years there has been a perceived link between marijuana use and the development of psychotic symptoms. Though an association has been seen, there have been limitations in the studies done to date.
We have not been able to determine whether a prior history of regular cannabis use increases an adolescent’s risk of experiencing persistent psychotic symptoms even after drug use has stopped for several months or years.
Also, it has been unclear whether the association between adolescent marijuana use and later psychotic symptoms is actually causal or a function of other factors. Some wonder whether cannabis causes symptoms or whether people already with those symptoms are more likely to attempt to self-medicate with cannabis.
A study published in May examined this relationship in more than 1,000 adolescent boys to determine whether those with regular marijuana use had a systemic increase in psychotic symptoms that persisted even during periods of abstinence from cannabis use.
Results found that regular adolescent marijuana use may significantly increase the likelihood of developing persistent psychotic symptoms.
For each year adolescent boys regularly used marijuana, their expected level of psychotic symptoms rose by 21 per cent, their odds of experiencing paranoia went up 133 per cent, and hallucinations 92 per cent. Further, the effect of marijuana use on psychotic symptoms persisted even when the teens stopped using the drug for a year.
No support was found for the self-medication theory—the subjects were not more likely to use marijuana after their psychotic symptoms increased.
This is a good step forward in our understanding of the relationship between marijuana use and the development of psychotic symptoms and disorders. However, more research is needed. For example, this study examined only boys from one geographic region. Future studies should look at girls as well and a variety of environments.
Future research should also examine how many individuals with psychotic symptoms went on to develop full-blown psychotic disorders in adulthood and whether linkages remain important after accounting for other factors.
What we can see though is that there does seem to be a causal relationship between regular marijuana use during adolescence and the development of psychotic symptoms that can persist even after drug use has stopped. This should be considered when we give young people information about recreational or medicinal use of this product. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/391083111.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/928731fc379575f1e93021dc5b9fd950d805b8e12437644a1afcb27877f5418d.json |
[
"Tom Fletcher"
] | 2016-08-26T12:58:49 | null | null | Gold mine near Prince Rupert shut down last summer for permit violations, owners charged for failing to report spill | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F390008831.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/31694BCLN2007minebanksislandgold7web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Banks Island miners face 18 pollution charges | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Two men and a mining company in receivership have been charged with 18 pollution infractions related to their shut-down gold mine on an island near Prince Rupert.
Benjamin Mossman and Dirk Meckert are scheduled to appear in Prince Rupert provincial court Sept. 7. Also charged is Banks Island Gold Ltd., which went into receivership after being shut down last year for provincial permit violations.
The Yellow Giant mine was ordered shut down by the Ministry of Environment in July 2015 after a tailings spill was reported on a tip. There is one charge of failing to report a spill of a polluting substance, and the other 17 charges are for failing to comply with permits.
North Coast MLA Jennifer Rice raised the issue in the legislature this spring, after receiving a letter from the Gitxaala First Nation referring to two separate tailings spills. Rice said the ministry did not inspect the operation for 15 months, until receiving a complaint.
NDP mining critic Norm Macdonald told the legislature a worker at the mine "became fed up, put his job on the line, sent the ministry and me a tip and pictures that documented what was going on there."
Energy and Mines Minister Bill Bennett said the mine was shut down when the situation was brought to its attention. The mine's 90 employees lost their jobs.
The province has a $420,000 security bond from the mining company, to provide ongoing monitoring. In March the mines ministry and Banks Island Gold removed explosives from the mine site and in May ministry technical staff assessed the hazardous materials on site.
The B.C. Conservation Officer Service, which recommended the charges, would not comment on the current condition of the Banks Island site, because it is evidence for the prosecution. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/business/390008831.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/2450a03f437903f0986b905517b6d0f65e1402bd21f2198327a9c1bb5b9104f8.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:13:42 | null | null | Countless lives have been saved by safe injection sites, why do we want less for the people in our community? | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391063871.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Safe injection sites save lives | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
Re: Injection Sites Are Just To Get Addicts High, Aug. 19 Kelowna Capital News.
It doesn't sound to me that you have ever known anyone who is an addict. They are not at all what people think. They are just people like us who are on the wrong road in life.
I had a dear cousin who died of a heroin overdose that turned out to be a bad batch that was on the streets at the time and there was no safe injection site in Vancouver at the time. Had there been, I might still have my generous, funny and kind loved one.
Addicts will use anyway, so let's make it as safe as possible, and at the same time give them opportunities to get clean. Countless lives have been saved by safe injection sites, why do we want less for the people in our community?
S.B., Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391063871.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/b5786555a93e5f6333d4b4c4565175e3699d86027875a14459af2e17c6bcc5bc.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:12:53 | null | null | RCMP say 39-year man broke into a home and inappropriately touched two sleeping women. He faces sexual assault charges. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391231371.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Suspect in Kelowna B&E and touching incident nabbed by police | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Kelowna RCMP say a 39-year-old Peachland man is facing sexual assault charges after allegedly breaking into a home and inappropriately touching two woman who were asleep inside on Tuesday night in Kelowna.
Police say at 8:45 p.m. on Aug. 23 they received a report of a break and enter and sexual assault at a residence in the 1500-block of Highland Drive North in Kelowna.
The suspect, not known to his victims, is believed to have gained entry into the home through an open door, said Const. Jesse O'Donaghey.
The two woman were laying beside each other in the same room.
The women were awakened and initially overcome with shock as they confronted the stranger and demanded he leave.
The suspect left and in doing so, passed one of the women’s boyfriend who had just returned home with his friend.
When the men learned what had transpired they ran from the residence in search of the suspect, who was last seen running east along Highland Drive North.
When police arrived on scene they set up a containment area and with the help of a police dog and witnesses, the suspect was located nearby and taken into custody.
The victims were not physically injured as a result of the incident, said O'Donaghey.
The suspect, a 39-year-old Peachland man, faces potential charges including, break and enter to commit an offence and sexual assault. He remains in custody and is expected to appear in Court today.
Anyone with any additional information is asked to contact the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391231371.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/5ca9d25745c3fcc39ab41395014bcbf1296e4c4dfb00cefb9768a4388d875a32.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T18:51:36 | null | null | Regarding the source of funding for the City of West Kelowna: It comes from one pocket—ours! | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391637731.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: West Kelowna's source of civic funding, clarified | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
I would just like to clarify for the mayor of West Kelowna regarding the source of funding for the City Hall, the water improvements and most of the rest of the council's spending.
It comes from one pocket—ours!
Mike Wilding, West Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391637731.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/1f527276b75683fa4caa5e954aa5db80207abb226f6c9c5c33af03d6287ef200.json |
[
"Maxine Dehart"
] | 2016-08-26T13:01:27 | null | null | Capital News business columnist Maxine DeHart reports The Vineyard Terrace Restaurant is now open for lunch and dinner. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F389078821.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/63724kelowna03DeHart1.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | DeHart: CedarCreek Winery restaurant open for business | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | This week’s column is dedicated to long-time Kelowna resident Marietta Lightbody who passed away July 21. The Lightbodys have been involved in many local organizations, including having raised thousands of dollars for the KGH Foundation with their popular tennis and bocce tournaments. We were delighted to be invited to their July 1 Canada Day garden parties, being able to visit old and new friends yearly. Condolences to Walley, her entire family and many friends.
The Vineyard Terrace Restaurant at CedarCreek Winery, 5445 Lakeshore Rd. in Kelowna, is now open for both lunch and dinner.
The restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy food, wine and a spectacular ambiance. The open-air restaurant wraps around the wine shop and affords an amazing view of the vineyard and lake. Executive chef Jeremy Tucker follows the farm to table philosophy, showcasing local, fresh and seasonal ingredients. The menu offers exceptional quality and beautiful platings. We shared the chilled zucchini soup (garden basil, cucumber, tomato) and then enjoyed entrees of Haida Gwaii halibut (fingerling potatoes, dee rfoot farm slaw, warm mustard dressing, lardon) and the fettuccini (daily house made pasta, peas, zucchini, soft poached egg, shaved Kootenay nostrala). The portions are generous and they also started the meal with an amuse bouche to all guests. That evening it was fresh Pacific scallop cured in Gewürztraminer ver jus, Northern Devine Caviar and sea asparagus. My husband Chris sampled a glass of 2013 Platinum Meritage with the meal. Our delightful server was Nicole Greer. Thomas Coburger is the Vineyard Terrace manager. Reservations recommended as the restaurant was full on a Thursday evening. Call 778-738-1027.
Kathy Conway, president and CEO of Interior Savings Credit Union, is the new United Way CSO board chair. Bruce Olsen, vice-president, commercial banking with Bank of Montreal, is the outgoing chair. Stepping down from the United Way board is Andrew Brunton, with Pushor Mitchell Lawyers LLP, while the new director is Amanda Wright, a staff accountant with KPMG.
Keith Inman has joined t
he team at Pushor Mitchell Lawyers LLP as associate counsel. Inman is a corporate and commercial lawyer with a broad practice that includes advising companies and underwriters with respect to public and private financing, asset and share purchases, mergers and acquisitions, amalgamations, plans of arrangement, take-over and issuer bids, reverse takeovers, change of business and corporate restructuring and reorganizations. Call 250-869-1195; email inman@pushormitchell.com.
Three Kelowna Chartered Professional Accountant students have passed the multi-day national Common Final Examination (CFE). Congratulations to Karter Basran, Harrison Pettit and Manpreet Saini.
Ricky and Friends Community of Giving have opened at 150 Gray Rd. in Rutland. This is a small faith-based business focused on supporting individuals with special abilities. Here clients can learn skills such as sewing, craft-making and knitting, which will enable them to help provide for the less fortunate people in the community. As well as creating items, the business will also be selling them and using the funds to help others. Stop by and see what Ricky and Friends have to offer or call 250-807-4954.
Did you know there is a lot of gold to be found today? It’s estimated that only five to 10 per cent of the world’s gold supply has been discovered. With the right tools and equipment you can find some of that still undiscovered gold. To assist those efforts, Fred’s Gold Panning & Mining Supplies has opened at 433 Highway 33, across from Home Hardware. Owned by Fred Lubberts, who has been in the mining equipment industry for many years, the store sells tools, equipment and brand name products from panning to small scale mining, including pans, prospecting tools, recovery equipment,
parts and accessories, scales, metal detectors, and many other mining items. Call 778-753-6724; online fredsgoldpanningstore.com.
A local hearing treatment centre has implemented an experience room to make it easier for those with hearing loss by increasing the comfort and efficiency of fitting a hearing aid. In this studio replicate a sound environment in an immersive interactive audio-visual experience can be replicated, which allows for a hearing aid to be tweaked until it’s perfect. Points West Audio Visual Ltd., a supplier of commercial audio and visual products, has designed an experience room for local hearing treatment centre, Ossicle Hearing and Tinnitus Treatment Centre. Dr. Markus Hilbert is the doctor of audiology at Ossicle Hearing and Tracey Cochrane is the owner of Points West Audio Visual. Call 250-861-5424; emial tracy@pointswestav.com.
Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery released Western Canada’s first batch of ‘BRBN’ a Bourbon-style corn whisky. The distillery created the brand and concept more than five years ago with the commencement of their grain-corn crop plantings in the Coldstream area. After being Okanagan grown and field-dried, the BRBN grain-corn is then milled, fermented and distilled onsite at both of their Okanagan Distilleries in Kelowna and Vernon. This year, the distillery was awarded the World Spirits Award as Distillery of the Year. Tyler Dyck is the CEO of the company.
The Greater Westside Board of Trade will host Business After Hours on Aug. 11, 5 to 7 p.m., at City Furniture and Appliance, 2341 Bering Rd.in West Kelowna.
Happy 5th anniversary Ross and Monika Grimmer (July 31).
If you would like to improve your math and English, enter a trade or get your career back on track, Kelowna Community Resources will train you at your level, help you to get back to work or continue with school. Essential Skills for the Workplace is a continual six week course, with the first one starting Aug. 29. To register, you must be a B.C. resident, 18 years of age or older, unemployed and not on EI (some specific EI rules apply) and not a full-time student. There is no cost and the course runs three hours per day, Monday to Friday. Call 778-484-5587. Check out the website kcr.ca.
Enterprise Flower Studio, at 2009 Enterprise Way in Kelowna, celebrates its 10th anniversary in business this month. Owned and operated by Zena and Kevin Tucker, Zena is a trained florist and manages the daily operations. The shop now has seven employees with double that number at seasonal times. Along with varied flower design and selection options, the shop also provides daily delivery service with their VW Beetle Petals vehicle. The shop boasts one of the largest flower coolers in town. Drop in and see the team of Elma, Deb, Susan, Morgan, Andrea, Stella and Saturday gal Misha Boesten. Call 250-868-3880; online enterpriseflowerstudio.com.
Black Inc. Co., which design, supply and build commercial kitchen and bars, has donated a commercial high-volume deep fryer to the Kelowna French Cultural Centre. Director of the Centre, Nicole Leblanc, said the centre could not keep up with the poutine demand at CCFO public events, which is important for the non-profit to raise funds for its year-round operations. This past year, Black Inc. Co. brokered a deal with the Delta Grand Hotel where the hotel donated the use of its kitchen to help the CCFO prepare poutine for Maple Fest. With the new Black Inc. Co. fryer donation, CCFO will more than double their poutine production at future events. Corey and Tanya Whalen are the owners of Black Ink. Co. Call 250-863-4574; online blackinkfood.com.
On Wednesday, Aug.10, 17 and 24 from noon to 1 p.m., the Cathedral Church of St. Michael and All Angels, 608 Sutherland Ave. in Kelowna, will conduct heritage tours of its 100 year old Anglican church building. Bring family, friends and visitors to explore the beautiful old grey stone landmark made of local material. Listen to the stories and history associated with the church’s interior and experience its wonderful acoustics when you hear the 150 year-old organ played. You can also walk the beautiful grounds. Free and open to all with wheelchair accessibility.
West Kelowna Professional Firefighters presents the Calendar Boys annual Fight Fire with Fashion fundraiser Sept. 10 at the Lions Community Hall in West Kelowna. Tickets $45 includes appetizers and door prizes. Call 250-300-5655; email firefashionshow@gmail.com .
NHL star Josh Gorges will host a one-day, 4-on-4, street hockey tournament, for players and fans at Immaculata Regional High School, 1493 KLO Rd. in Kelowna on Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. From noon to 1 p.m., some of Gorges’ NHL hockey player buddies will be on hand to sign autographs. The tournament is a fundraiser to build a new St. Joseph elementary school.
WS Accounting Services Inc. presents the Uptown Rutland Classic Car Show on Sunday, Aug. 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lions Park. Cost is $10 to register a car in the show online at ourrutland.ca.
Artistic director, Alexandra Babbel leads Opera Kelowna in presenting Mozart’s Zauberflote/The Magic Flute. An international cast and orchestra conducted by Bernard McDonald will animate the RCA’s Mary Irwin Theatre with ballet, a 30 voice chorus and couture costumes. Toronto director Jessica Derventzis will create the magical mystical staging of this most popular opera. Tickets available online at operakelowna.com
Birthdays of the week: Maxine DeHart (Aug. 6); happy 70th to Ross Grimmer (Aug. 5); Darren Bates (Aug. 3); Sylvia Jurys (Aug. 3); Mike Christian (Aug. 4); Kathy Zucchi (Aug. 4); Elizabeth Bologna (Aug. 4); Ron Eberle (Aug. 5); Mohini Singh (Aug. 6); Rob Cupello (Aug. 6); Hugh Feagan (Aug. 8); Gary Bennett (Aug. 8); Peter Schultz (Aug. 8); in memory Sandy Apostolidis (Aug. 7).
Maxine DeHart is a local hotelier. Phone her at 250-979-4546, fax 250-860-3173, or e-mail maxdehart@telus.net | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/business/389078821.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/233a3357111b8a50a0f9fced21ce3c1d67e0f862f25150775eb653df5d7d2128.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T18:51:34 | null | null | [West Kelowna's] actual reserves, as at year end 2015, are only $25,102,195, more than $17.3 million below minimum level. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391634161.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Not convinced on West Kelowna's money management abilities | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
The City of West Kelowna goes to referendum Sept. 17 and taxpayers will be asked if they are in favour of the city borrowing up to $7.7 million “ for the construction of a new city hall and related project work…”
On top of this borrowing, the city will also take seven million, one hundred thousand dollars $7.1 million from reserves to go towards this project. The city’s own bylaw states that borrowing from a reserve fund is allowed for by legislation, if a clearly defined and attainable payback plan, including payment of forgone interest, is in place.
Basically that means that the city will be borrowing a total of $14.8 million for the building of a city hall.
So, the total cost of this borrowing over 20 years will be $19.5 million—including the additional interest of $4.7 million. The city does not have the budget to pay back this amount of money.
Roads, sidewalks, sewer, water and lighting are all basic infrastructure needs. Currently, we are not meeting these community needs fully because of lack of funds available. Why would we then take on $19.5 million of debt to build a city hall?
City of West Kelowna’s reserve fund figures, as at year end 2015, make dismal reading.
The city has known of the much-needed water improvements for some time and should have been building the water capital reserves up to the minimum $15 million. Instead, we have only $4 million in that fund.
The minimum level of reserves the city holds is supposed to be $42,458,787. Their actual reserves, as at year end 2015, are only $25,102,195, more than $17.3 million below minimum level.
But voters don’t have to worry about this—as the city tells us that the cost for the new civic centre is all accounted for and there will be no additional taxes involved. (I remember being told that about the Mount Boucherie Arena project too.)
Some businesses are vociferous in their support of this proposed public-private partnership to build a city hall.
Business tax income only accounts for 15 per cent of taxes collected by the city. The other 85 per cent comes from you, my friend—the residential taxpayer.
Naturally, business is happy to encourage you to spend your money—but who benefits?
Vote No Sept. 17: Your vote counts.
Watch this video for more information:
Watchdog on Alternate West Kelowna City Hall Locations
Heather Yeats, West Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391634161.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/d2969842b6b2cc68817486c7381eb49b931cfaa01510b1e03ca66adb02bac988.json |
[
"Liz Wylie"
] | 2016-08-26T12:57:09 | null | null | The intensely creative and focused individuals featured in any creative endeavor are, in fact, artists. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F388397891.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/85523kelowna162907_KCN_Wyliecol1web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Wylie: Escape Artists at the Kelowna Art Gallery | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Back in the heyday of Modernist purity it would not have gone over well to claim that a chef or a landscape designer were actually creating art. Art, sometimes emphasized as High Art, was a world unto itself, and could not have anything as lowly as a practical application associated with it.
For better or for worse, that attitude has long since sailed, as post-modernism cracked open old categories and allowed fascinating and rich hybrid art forms to come into being. So these days, anyone watching a series such as Chef’s Table, for instance, could make a strong argument that the intensely creative and focused individuals featured are, in fact, artists.
Likewise with gardens—we are now far more open to seeing gardens as works of art, in the same realm as paintings or sculptures, just using the medium of plants.
With this sort of open-ended thinking in mind, the Kelowna Art Gallery launched its Artist’s Garden Project four years ago, commissioning local artists to conceive and carry out garden installations in our open-air Rotary Courtyard Space. The results have been inspiring and widely varied.
This year two Okanagan-based artists have collaborated to produce Escape Artists—the brainchild of Wanda Lock and Rena Warren. When visitors enter the space they encounter several items other than plants: An abandoned circus wagon that seems to have once contained a creature, now perhaps escaped. The wagon is enclosed with a fence made from antique iron bed headboards. A giant chain lies on the ground, which suggests the caged critter was formidable.
We might begin to think we have come upon an arrangement of clues as to what once transpired in the space. Statues of a woman holding flowers and a lion make reference to various literary and historical figures, such as Aslan the lion in CS Lewis’ Narnia books, and the figure of or references to Mary in medieval gardens devoted to the Virgin Mary.
When we lift our gaze, we will notice a faded blue-painted wooden door that has been installed high up on the rear wall, acting as a symbol of departure. Morning Glories have begun their ascent on suspended lengths of green string. As the plants continue to grow, the impression will become one of an abandoned, overgrown garden. With the lush, shade-loving plants, selected and planted with care by the artists, yes, the space is unmistakably a garden, but it is also undeniably a work of art.
Artist Wanda Lock grew up in the Okanagan and studied art at the Emily Carr College of Art and Design in Vancouver. She exhibits her work regularly in the Okanagan.
Rena Warren has a BFA from the University of Victoria and has been exhibiting her work and teaching art in the Okanagan since 1995.
The Artist’s Garden Project: Wanda Lock and Rena Warren: Escape Artists is accompanied by a web-based publication on the gallery’s website http://kelownaartgallery.com/ that will be updated with images as the plants grow and flower.
The garden will be in place for a full year at the Kelowna Art Gallery, 1315 Water Street in Kelowna's Cultural District, and will be demolished in the spring of 2017 to make way for a new project. Why not plan to visit often to see all the growth and changes. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/entertainment/388397891.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/dbff338a88bbe8e362e28aac902381335d65195e61c8c01a2cd8a5f4701fa4bf.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T18:51:39 | null | null | Look at the numbers, civic bylaws before committing to new West Kelowna city hall as currently presented | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391635631.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Consider 'cold dry facts' over 'want' in West Kelowna referendum | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
If I might repeat the headings of two correspondents writing in the Aug. 26 edition of the Kelowna Capital News: Let’s Build A City Hall We Can Be Proud Of, and, New City Hall Will Be A Burden On West Kelowna Taxpayers.
These two letters are perfect examples of, per the first letter (a) we want, not we need (b) the heart ruling the head.
And the second letter that has been well researched and substantiated tells it like it is, quoting cold, dry facts and figures (no, they are not very 'sexy' in today’s parlance) that cry out to be read and understood by voters before they cast their vote.
There are ordinances in existence that demand the city fathers put in place first an approved plan to repay any borrowings subsequently removed from contingency funds.
That’s the law. But the authorities, our current council, from what little we are allowed to know, appear to be knowingly charging ahead despite their unheeded obligation as above, with the process of gathering votes to commit we, the voters, to another huge sum to meet their dreams— a nightmare for the rest of us—whilst ignoring (abandoning some as well) public works projects budgeted for, of far more importance, but, of course, not so sexy.
All of Mr. Anstead’s numbers [New City Hall Will Be A Burden On West Kelowna Taxpayers, Aug. 26 Kelowna Capital News] are contained in the public record, and I for one thank him for publicizing them in the Capital News.
Ronald W. Haslock, West Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391635631.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/9c0c857b883a4396fc70618d2f5f40306122993f4cd268626ecfa484bfa552d1.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:13:51 | null | null | Mountain bike riders Bas and Tom Van Steenbergen climbing to the top of mountain bike loop | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fsports%2F391177361.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/99778kelownamtnbike.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Kelowna's Van Steenbergen brothers electric at Whistler's Crankworx | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Kelowna mountain biker Bas Van Steenbergen rips down A-line at Whistler's mountain bike course to place in top spot during Crankworx.
Bas Van Steenbergen of Kelowna redefined the meaning of being in the hot seat earlier this month at Crankworx in Whistler, sweating out 30 full runs in first place, holding off the top downhill racers in the world, to win the Fox Air DH.
Temperatures were soaring during the competition, held at Whistler's mountain bike park, leaving the courses hot, dry, dusty and rutty for the 10-day festival as Whistler played host to 1,200 riders and 130,000 spectators.
“That was nerve-wracking; it wasn’t the greatest. I would rather have dropped in a little bit earlier next time,” said Van Steenbergen, who lives and trains in Kelowna and was competing alongside bis brother Tom.
Like many of the racers who grew up in the Crankworx scene, he has put in his time, making the pilgrimage to Whistler to race for the last six years. This was his top Crankworx result.
“I got a fourth in Les Gets in Speed & Style and then a fourth here in Speed & Style, but this is definitely the highlight,” he said, sweat pouring down his brow under the blazing sun in the finish corral.
Van Steenbergen and his older brother, Tom, gave the crowds quite the show just four days before during the first live broadcast event of the festival. Tom nailed the first double backflip in Dual Speed & Style history to achieve received the first perfect 100 ever awarded in the judged sport, which sees the riders race the clock and another competitor, while delivering freestyle tricks along the course.
“I was just stoked to pull that double flip in a race,” Tom said. “We’ve raced against each other before in BMX way back, but this was really cool. Speed and Style is about bringing Slopestyle and racing together, so it’s super cool, and it was just great to race against my brother. It feels like the funnest thing ever.”
Crankworx Whistler is one of three Crankworx festivals held around the world, and is now in its 14th year with seven live broadcast events. The other two stops are in Rotorua, New Zealand, in March, and Les Gets, France, in June.
Events wrapped up Sunday August 21, culminating in the marquee event, the Red Bull Joyride, a Slopestyle competition which sees the athletes perform an aerial show, jumping off a string of wooden features before a crowd of 30,000-plus fans.
And it wasn't just the Van Steenbergen's who have a connection to Kelowna as Ontario rider Brett Rheeder has moved to the Okanagan to live and train with the brothers. On Sunday Rheeder captured the Red Bull Joyride, outcompeting 15 of the world's fastest riders to capture the title at the largest slopestyle mountain bio competition in the world.
All three stops of the Crankworx World Tour are broadcast on Crankworx.com, Pinkbike.com and the Slopestyle competition, Red Bull Joyride, is broadcast exclusively on Red Bull TV. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/sports/391177361.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/e262c9d243a2b2bd35943b498ad2c6c801ec51a01243c36007d723a09bcc6f6b.json |
[] | 2016-08-28T20:51:44 | null | null | After a 20-minute delay in the dark, Okanagan overcomes fourth quarter deficit to beat the Rams Saturday in BCFC action. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fsports%2F391545701.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/96627kelownasunrams.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Sun moves to 6-0 with win in Langley | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | The Okanagan Sun needed a late touchdown to down the Langley Rams on Saturday night.
When the lights came back on, the Okanagan Sun decided it was time to get down to business.
Keith Zyla's 23-yard touchdown run five minutes into the fourth quarter put the Sun ahead to stay en route to a 15-10 victory over the hometown Langley Rams Saturday night in BCFC action.
The first-place Sun, who received another stellar effort from their defense, are now 6-0 in 2016, while the Rams slip to 4-2.
The Sun, who generated little on offense for much of the night, trailed 10-7 with 11 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter when the lights went out at McLeod Athletic Park.
After a 20-minute delay and with power restored, Zyla capped the decisive drive with his second rushing touchdown of the season.
While the Sun didn't earn a lot of style points for the win, head coach Ben Macauley was pleased with both the effort and the final result.
"Full credit to Langley, they're a tough group and came ready to play," said Macauley. "We were happy to get out of there with a win. Things didn't go exactly they way we had hoped, but it's a testament to the guys who really decided they were going to fight for the win.
"When the power went out, after the break, the guys came out renewed and refocused," he added. "Our veterans really set the tone for us."
Jamie Turek scored the only other major for the Sun, returning a fumbled punt return to the end zone in the first quarter for an early 7-0 lead.
For the second straight game, the Sun defense held the opposition without a touchdown, with the Rams managing just three field goals and a single point.
"I think we're definitely starting to hit our stride," defensive lineman Jonas Gering said of the Sun defense. "I don't think we've reached our full potential yet, but we're getting there. It's nice to see guys making plays at the right times. It's bend but not break for us, and that's great to see."
Tye Kitzman picked off two passes, including one late in the fourth quarter to help secure the win for the Sun who had shutout the Kamloops Broncos a week earlier.
Linebacker Layne Hull also helped shift momentum in the Sun's favour in the fourth quarter with a big hit on Rams' running back Joe Carter.
The Sun and the rest of the BCFC are heading into a bye week.
Okanagan will return to action Saturday, Sept. 10 in Victoria against the Westshore Rebels (5-1). | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/sports/391545701.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/58e4b8ebd6e8c2c3856acd787087bb13677f12bad8aea894eb7f8733f4a3ce09.json |
[
"Gabriele Banka"
] | 2016-08-26T12:58:25 | null | null | Whatever happens, you want to make sure your family members have a roof over their heads and can feed themselves if the company goes south. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fbusiness%2F391083951.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Banka: Director’s liability in small corporations | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | It’s been my experience that the perfect strategy between spouses who own a corporation is to have both as shareholders of the corporation, but only one as the director.
However, I have seen instances where only one spouse holds both the corporation and the personal assets with the other spouse being the chief operating officer or having nothing to do with the corporation at all.
The reason you want to segregate the personal assets from the business assets in a family-owned corporation is in case someone takes legal action against you.
Whatever happens, you want to make sure your family members have a roof over their heads and can feed themselves if the company goes south.
You may not face legal action from a supplier or customer, but you may from the Canada Revenue Agency.
There was a recent court case in May where there were two director shareholders in a corporation where one was basically a silent partner and let the other make all the decisions.
It was very similar to a family held corporation.
Unfortunately, the business started to go sour and was unable to make its monthly payroll.
The silent partner became aware that the remittances were not being made because he or she would receive the notices in the mail.
The silent partner confronted the managing partner and was told things were being looked after and everything was expected to turn around in the future and the remittances would be made.
CRA took legal action against the corporation and the two directors for the payroll liability.
Directors can be held personally liable for non-remittance of payroll deductions.
The silent partner’s defence was that he or she relied on the other partner’s word.
That defence was not accepted in court.
The judgement was that any prudent person would have done their due diligence (monitored the situation themselves) to make sure the payments were being made and what was being promised by the managing partner was actually happening.
You may think the silent partner could have just resigned as a director when the corporation started failing, but again you need to have been resigned for two years prior to any difficulty in order to not to be dragged into any legal proceedings of the corporation.
The best tax strategy for setting up a family owned corporation is to have one spouse as a director/shareholder of the corporation and have the other as a shareholder.
The director/shareholder could then receive a salary or bonuses from the corporation and the other spouse would be free to earn income outside of the corporation and hold title to the family’s personal assets. Each spouse needs to own a different class of shares so when the corporation has retained earnings and is able to pay dividends, the choice can be made as to who would receive the dividends based on their personal financial position. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/business/391083951.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/82846ff9cf34ec9da4e05fe31afcff4fb46b36b98d6190e616a23b1e3d51d1de.json |
[
"Jeff Nagel"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:36 | null | null | $60 a year increase for most drivers once optional auto insurance increase is included | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.com/news/391304001.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/f68794afc081e842850cec4d03714a3618b2e3e52eae38e0edd2471107a20f31.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T18:51:37 | null | null | [A 'No' vote is] not a rejection of a new city hall, nor a rejection of…an ideal cultural centre, which Westbank already is. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391629971.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: 'No' to West Kelowna city hall is a rejection of the costs | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
The No side [to build a community hall/civic centre in Westbank] has a number of key planks to the overwhelming opposition the alternative approval process revealed. They are not a rejection of a new city hall, nor a rejection of the concept of Westbank district and community being an ideal cultural centre, which it already is.
It is a rejection of the costs, size, 3P partnership, failure to follow the city’s own consultant’s recommendations of a much more modest project and the distance from other established districts and communities.
A vote against the proposal should be made for the following reasons.
1 Excess cost of project
a. The city received a report from Mr. Huggett September 24, 2013 specifying it needed 23,000 sq ft of office space to meet the government office standards
b. Future need estimated as 10,000 sq ft when the city grew 50 per cent
c. The cost estimate (23,000 sq ft) in his report was $6.5 million
d. Why are we building to the maximum and not to our needs with room for additional space to be added in the future?
e. Why is the city proposing going from 12,500 sq ft and two portables to 32,215 sq ft?
f. Why are we going from $6.5 million to $15 million plus?
g. Road sewer, water, gas and sidewalk upgrades needed just to serve this property are not priced into the project total cost
2. Civic centre excessive costs:
a. The building costs are greatly increased because the city is providing space of 330 sq ft for every staff member. This is an artificial space requirement, developed by bureaucrats for bureaucrats, and exceeds the space most private sector office workers get by about 50 per cent. Surely this indicates a Rolls Royce if not a Taj Mahal
b. By reducing the space per person by 20 per cent it would cut 5,000 to 6,000 sq ft and save $1 million.
c. By letting the recreation department remain in the Cameron Street location, (like the fire department management is in a fire hall) cut 3,000 sq ft and save another $500,000.
3. Location:
a. There is no guarantee that the city hall in the proposed site will generate any other new development in the Westbank district, only a hope and speculation that it will.
b. The site zoned residential across the street from active agriculture lands in the ALR
c. Extreme pressure to develop ARL lands would likely follow this proposal is passed
d. The major premise of developing the community of Westbank into the business and cultural centre of West Kelowna was predicated on the highway changing from a couplet to Dobbin Road freeing Main Street for future pedestrian friendly development. The province has rejected that concept
e. The major business, financial and retail centre serving the city have moved to WFN lands
f. The city’s remaining goal is cultural development in the Westbank area like:
i. Museums
ii. Farmers market
iii. Public park and gardens
iv. Open air event centre like skating
4. Alternative Locations:
The city, in its information pages, claim there is no suitable land owned by the city that could be used.
Alternatives are:
i. The city works yard on Bartley Road (next to Brookhaven Care Centre) could be moved to the new works yard also on Bartley Road. The old site offers more than enough area and could include a park on the creek as well as ample space for public and staff parking both on site and on the road allowance.
ii. The parcel of land where the portables and short term parking are at the recreation site could be used
iii. present site of the Museum and Chamber could work
iv. Perhaps the site of the seniors centre, if it moved to the Cameron Street centre, where it would be central to all of the City of West Kelowna seniors
v. A building suspended like a bridge over the existing Cameron Street building would work (if the foundation of it is not sufficient to bear additional storeys)
vi. There are likely other lands in the city inventory that could be explored.
5. Financial reserve prudence:
a. If in March 2016 we needed the reserves left after borrowing $10.5 million, why do we not need the same reserves in August 2016?
b. Our General Reserves are $4.6 million, Municipal Facilities Reserves are $1.8 million totaling $6.4 million, less this proposal $8.1 million the reserve shortfall is $1.7 million
c. All other reserves are restricted and designated for other projects
d. In light of the entire major planned infrastructure ahead, what happens if one of the other projects is pushed to urgent, where will the money come from?
e. It is not safe or responsible to pull $8.1 million from our dwindling emergency reserves for a supersized city hall.
6. 3P partnerships:
a. this is proposed as a private-public partnership (3P). 3P agreements often favour the developer at the expense and/or dissatisfaction work for the government involved
b. Ontario’s Auditor General found that 3P partnerships cost the government 16 per cent more than doing it themselves, and calls 3P economic rationale to be “junk science”. (Jon Christoff letter Aug. 28)
7. The developer:
a. The city is short of quality housing and the developer has the support of the city to build apartments on the site
b. A city centre plaza with residential, commercial, office space and cultural buildings and space with parking is very attractive
c. The city is waiving the development cost charges (bylaw 0179) as an added incentive
d. They have an anchor tenant in Interior Health
e. This project could proceed without city hall
8. Ignoring the alternative approval process vote against this proposal:
a. Council rejected the voice of over 4,000 citizens by:
i. Retaining the same location, 3P partnership, and no concept change
ii. Re-tooling the financing using reserves needed for real emergencies
iii. Not reducing the size of the building to their own consultant, Mr. Huggett’s recommendation of 23,000 sq ft
iv. Not reducing the total expenditure, and
v. Not presenting an alternative or different city-owned site.
b. Those No votes were against the obvious excessive cost, excess space, 3P partnership and decentralized location proposed.
Please think responsibly and vote No on Sept. 17.
Doug Waines, West Kelowna
Note to the editor: The City of West Kelowna last week shut down the web pages which contained links to the historical events which I used for research, and I was unable to recheck my statistics. (If [the shut down] was only to my IP address or the entire page is unknown.)
Working West Kelowna city link cite: Vote Yes and West Kelowna Civic Centre Project | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391629971.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/5a111b0c3bccfab3bcb1d846d80718e9170c8469cd181b59e2fd8ec4de42edb8.json |
[
"Staff Writer"
] | 2016-08-26T13:03:57 | null | null | Photographers from across the province competed in amateur competition | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.com/community/391187111.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/4bf42a383147ee8bfa358b29fcf23318cd123179565c8c1aede61a9e3d8d75a2.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:04:20 | null | null | Parkinson Recreation Centre pass holders will automatically have an equivalent extension added to their pass ... | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F390595191.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Public ammenity closures in Kelowna | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | The aquatic area at Parkinson Recreation Centre will be temporarily closed Aug. 29 to Sept. 17 for annual general maintenance. This closure will affect the main pool, children’s play pool, whirlpool and steam room. The aquatic area is scheduled to reopen on Sunday, Sept. 18.
Parkinson Recreation Centre pass holders will automatically have an equivalent extension added to their pass due to any time missed as a result of the closure. Punch passes and access passes excluded.
In addition, there will be no drop-in basketball or volleyball from Sept. 5 to Sept. 17.
Maintenance closures are necessary in order to maintain a clean and safe facility. The City appreciates facility user patience during this time.
For more information about the facility and Active Living and Culture programs and activities, contact the Parkinson Recreation Centre at 250-469-8800 or visit kelowna.ca/recreation. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/community/390595191.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/51f0eab8d67ebb61d57f3c91865575ab52e6bf9e77d1688a589c874f8e9e3083.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T00:51:47 | null | null | We are a city and it is time to think like a city, act like a city and look like a city. Please be a community builder… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391669261.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Every city needs a city hall | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | On Sept. 17, 2016 the residents of West Kelowna will have a chance to support the building of a city hall and civic centre or maintain the status quo.
Every product or convenience that we have today , is due to someone having a vision of changes that would benefit others. This is why we enjoy the conveniences of various means of travel and types of personal communication and electronic devices. Someone had a vision and made that vision a reality. At the same time, there would be many naysayers who would say, “what we have is good enough.”
Our first prime minister had a vision of a national railway which led to the formation of Canada. He heard from many naysayers, but turned his vision into reality.
In the early 1950s, W.A.C. Bennett had a vision of the first bridge to join Westbank and Kelowna and this opened up the whole Okanagan Valley to growth and prosperity. The naysayers were wringing their hands over the cost and couldn’t see the benefits.
Our leaders had visions of the benefits of Expo 86 and the 2010 Olympics. They saw the benefits of showcasing our beautiful province to the world while the naysayers worried about noise and congestion.
People with a vision are community builders.
The naysayers are complainers with no positive suggestions.
On Sept.17, you are being asked to be a community builder and vote YES for our city hall and civic centre.
You have probably noticed that those who favour a NO vote consistently criticize what our elected members of government propose but never offer anything positive. They love words like “no, we don’t need it, it’s good enough and it’s too costly.” They say that there is no need to give the residents of West Kelowna back their Mount Boucherie Recreation Complex that was used by various community clubs and organizations. They say that city employees don’t need an efficient building that meets the standards of municipal structures. They say cramped work spaces and portables are suitable working conditions.
Our city is portrayed this way through the eyes of future employees and those wishing to invest here after visiting our current facilities. This is not the image of a vibrant growing community.
We are a city and it is time to think like a city, act like a city and look like a city. Every city requires a city hall. A city hall makes a statement about its community image and stature. We are a growing community, having grown 20 per cent in the last seven years. Our population is now greater than our neighbour to the south, Penticton.
Please be a community builder for our current citizens, our children and their children. Vote YES.
Curt Tingley, West Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391669261.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/4f7b5aa4014ee3d8251cd5a5bece30cca2f42ddfda10b6d36f691dff2587c9e4.json |
[] | 2016-08-29T16:52:01 | null | null | UBC Okanagan men's soccer squad off to good start with victory over Victoria and tie against UBC | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fsports%2F391619951.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/35081kelownakang.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Heat launch season with win and draw | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Jeevin Kang and the Heat men's soccer team picked up four of a possible six points in their first two games of the Canada West season.
The UBC Okanagan Heat kicked off the 2016 Canada West men's soccer season on the right foot with a win and a draw on their home pitch.
On Saturday at Nonis Field, freshman Spencer Young slotted the lone marker late in the second half to lead the Heat to a 1-0 victory over the Victoria Vikes.
A Kelowna product, Young connected in the 88th minute from the 18-yard box on a pass from Robert Hamilton.
Mitch McCaw made a pair of saves in the Heat net for his first clean sheet of the season.
On Sunday, the Heat played to a 1-1 tie with the defending conference champion UBC Thunderbirds.
Luke Warkentin gave UBCO a 1-0 lead in the 22nd minute, scoring on a rare misplay by all-Canadian keeper Chad Bush.
Kerman Mannu evened up the game in the 58th minute, beating McCaw to the lower left corner.
The T-Birds ended the match with 13 shots while the Heat had six.
Aside from Warkentin’s goal, the best chance for the Heat came on a free kick in the 51st minute, which Hamish Walde put off the right post.
In the 82nd minute of Sunday's game, Spencer Young was forced to leave the game after suffering an injury when he stopped a hard Thunderbird shot with his head.
The Heat (1-0-1) will take their unbeaten record on the road this weekend as they visit the Trinity Western Spartans (2-0-0) in Langley.
On Saturday, UBCO will be in Abbotsford to battle the Fraser Valley Cascades. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/sports/391619951.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/b65eb44ffb142c03938a257b80f74a8bf176b4eb2c99c32e65790af8f9016944.json |
[
"Marjorie Horne"
] | 2016-08-26T13:08:20 | null | null | I fully understand the conflict that can arise in oneself when attuned continually to giving and the programming that this emanates from. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F388289121.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Horne: Connecting with peace and grace | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | My last column talked about caregiver burnout resulted in me speaking to several caregivers caring for their spouses, and how it had brought them to a realization of their own inner feelings about their situation.
The purpose of my writing about the symptoms of this place we can arrive at where we want to just escape, to leave, to push away all that is happening was to offer an opportunity to do something differently.
Having been a caregiving personality all my life, I fully understand the conflict that can arise in oneself when attuned continually to giving and the programming that this emanates from.
Especially as we age and continue in life with a particular pattern of behaviour, often our deepest emotions about these situations cause us to revert to a sense of wanting to flee, or to fight or to freeze.
In all of these reactive states, we are in a form of resistance against what is.
How do we counter the conditioning to control our inner experience which leaves us trapped inside a painful mood?
How do we change the cycle of not fully being with what is, embracing the feelings that arise with that acknowledgment so we can come to a greater understanding of what is triggering these emotions and open up a space for acceptance to enter?
I think for many of us, we truly desire a greater connection to peace and grace as we are aging.
We’ve been there and done that so many times, there is a genuine willingness to change.
This authentic intention is very important. For me it came fully into being as I watched my mom struggle at the end of her life to let go as I cared for her through those intense last months.
She would not surrender. She kept fighting and it was painful to watch.
I decided I did not want to replay this in my own life, and it opened up a sincere openness to discover how I might accomplish this.
The answers have come slowly and developing a practice to liberate my consciousness is the pathway to healing that I think so many of us seek.
Freedom comes with a pausing, being with what is and having the courage to realize that our reactions to circumstances do not come from anything outside of us, but from our own perceptions of what we feel we need to do to be loved, feel safe or feel like we belong.
Mindfulness is a practice of being present in the moment with what is.
Instead of pushing our feelings away, we pause and be with them whatever they are.
Often when caregiving for some length of time, the first emotion you may connect with is anger or frustration, a resentment of what you are going through.
If you ask, “What is going on inside me right now?” and then breathe deeply into that and let it be, let it expand, this is mindfulness.
It takes courage to name whatever you feel and accept it.
As you do, you make room for a door to open to what is underneath.
Ask what this is. It may be fear or it may be feelings of guilt or perhaps sadness.
Let each emotion be felt and use your breath to embrace it without judgment.
As we do this, it allows for a shift to occur. One that will take us to being able to act from right action, not from habit, or protection, but from a more compassionate place for ourselves and for those around us.
We are listening, truly listening to a voice within us and in this acceptance we can move to being able to respond, rather that react.
This frees up an amazing amount of energy to move from resistance to acceptance.
Carl Rogers said, “It wasn’t until I accepted myself just as I am, that I was given the freedom to change.”
Engaging with how it is and allowing it, frees it. It moves you from resignation, which is very different from authentic acceptance.
Opening to whatever is can be heartbreaking, but let the heart break.
Let the natural inclination to resist soften, and use the intention to do so as an invitation to receive the support that will allow it to happen, one little step at a time.
A wise man said, “If you let go a little, you find a little peace. If you let go a lot, you find a lot of peace. If you let go absolutely, you find absolute peace and tranquility.”
Danna Faulds in her poem White Dove says it with such wisdom:
“In the shared quiet, an invitation arises like a white dove lifting from a limb and taking flight.
“Come and live in truth.
“Take your place in the flow of grace.
“Draw aside the veil you thought would always separate your heart from love.
“All you ever longed for is before you in this moment if you dare draw in a breath and whisper ‘Yes.’” | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/lifestyles/388289121.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/e7d2b28044f994a3e6c5c35277b563c473567c05af0f0fb95fb7ff9eb6fbe325.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:13:20 | null | null | Might I suggest the money would be better spent opening more walk-in clinics or hiring more doctors for law abiding citizens of Kelowna. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F390598751.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Injection sites just a way for addicts to get high | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
Re: Rash of Drug Overdoses Speeding Up Needing for Local Safe Injection Site, Aug. 10 Kelowna Capital News.
What a terrible message Interior Health is giving to our youth, not only that intravenous drug use is OK but come on down to their site and they’ll supply the equipment and show you how to use it.
What happens after the addict gets high? Do the nurses drive them home or just put them on their bikes or behind the wheel of a car to cause mayhem on the roads?
Where do the drug users get the money to purchase their illegal drugs? Well think about it, they have to commit criminal offences—b&e's, theft from vehicles, shoplifting and armed robberies. The actions of IH are therefore tantamount to aiding and abetting the commission of crimes. Many of the crimes being committed in Kelowna are a direct result of addicts having to get money to pay for their habit.
Some health professionals go as far as to suggest that drug addiction is a disease. It is not—cancer is a disease—drug use is a lifestyle choice that everyone should realize has consequences.
Wouldn’t funds be better spent in having a drug dependency treatment centre so that these addicts might get clean and become productive members of society rather than promoting a criminal drug-dependant lifestyle?
If Interior Health has extra funds in their coffers to hire nurses and facilities, might I suggest that the money would be better spent in opening more walk-in clinics or hiring more doctors for the emergency department so that the law abiding citizens of Kelowna don’t have to wait for hours on end to get medical treatment.
Perhaps Health Canada will reject the injection site application but I won’t be sitting on pins or needles for that to happen.
Mike Humphries, Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/390598751.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/8f918565a1673d10cc3c14353396e8be81424ca182213edd8063dde5696d3cfd.json |
[
"Alistair Waters"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:26 | null | null | Outgoing president not allowed to speak, members of audience and meeting chairwoman tell each other to shut up and mayhem ensues. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391233451.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/21854kelownaRutlandParkSocietyColour.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Raucous Rutland Park Society meeting turns into a shouting match | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Rutland Park Society
The new era for the Rutland Parks Society started Tuesday in a similar fashion to how the old one ended - with a chaotic membership meeting.
Tuesday night's meeting, called by now former RPS president Todd Sanderson, but chaired by his rival on the board Wendi Swarbrick after she refused to let him present a final report to the membership, quickly dissolved into a shouting match between many in attendance.
Several times, an exasperated Swarbrick told audience members who appeared to challenge her to "sit down and shut up." And she was not alone. Many in the audience shouted the same instruction to others in the audience as well.
The tenor of the meeting was not helped by the fact the power died to the microphone being used and many in the audience said they could not hear what was being said when motions were being proposed and discussed.
With audience members continuing to shout one another down, it was clear some supported the former board that Sanderson lead, while others supported Swarbrick. The two have had an ongoing power struggle for control of the society.
A one point, the society's former bookkeeper, whom the former board fired and who now says he is owed more than $11,000 for work he did for the RPS, tried to make a motion to eject anyone disturbing the meeting. The move simply seemed to elevate the shouting level and no one was ejected.
Swarbrick said she ruled Sanderson could not give a final president's report because he resigned last Thursday and not at Tuesday night's meeting as he originally indicated he would.
As for the other agenda item, election of a new interim board to serve until the society's annual general meeting in October, Swarbrick said because six interim directors were named at the meeting she called two weeks ago, there was no need to do that either. All the previous directors, except for Sanderson and Swarbrick, quit en masse July 18.
Sanderson maintains the meeting two weeks ago, where the six interim directors were named, was not properly constituted and new directors, including Swarbrick's ex-husband, one of her employees and one of her business clients, are not legally recognized as RPS directors.
Speaking from the floor as an ordinary RPS member, Sanderson tried to raise several points but was shouted down by others in the audience, including one of his most vocal critics, David Buckna, who yelled, "You had your time, Sanderson. You should leave."
Despite the chaos, some in the crowd did appeal for decorum, urging those in attendance to put their own issues aside and work together for the betterment of the RPS. Others tried — and in some cases succeeded—to propose motions to help move the society forward, such as limiting the spending power of the new board only to day-to-day expenses until the society's finances are fully known and calling for the independent audit of the society's books.
Swarbrick, an accountant, warned that could cost as much as $30,000.
Another motion called for the RPS to separate itself from the Uptown Rutland Business Association, which it works with closely and which hosts the society's web presence on its own website.
At first, despite being on the URBA board, Swarbrick was reluctant to declare a conflict and hand over the chair to another board member while the motion was discussed. She argued that because she was not going to vote on the motion she did not have to give up the chair or leave the room during the discussion. Finally, after being advised by several members of the audience that she had to, Swarbrick stepped out of the room.
During her absence there was a marked difference in the tone of the meeting. While loud at times, it didn't have the earlier feeling of a free for all.
Following discussion on the motion, acting chairman of the meeting Joe Iafrancesco, who sat on the previous board, quit and was then named to the new board, made an impassioned plea to the members to work with the new board to help move the society forward.
Later, he said while the new board has met briefly, it has not named a president and he referred all questions to Swarbrick.
She said despite the heated tone of the meeting, she felt the RPS could now move forward.
It has $800,000 from the sale of Rutland Centennial Park to the City of Kelowna three years ago and a federal grant of another $274,000 if it refurbishes the existing, aging Rutland Centennial Hall.
She said while the new board still plans to present the $25,000 consultant's study looking at the pros and cons of refurbishing the hall or building a new one to the membership, the rebuilding option is not likely to proceed as the society does not have the more than $5 million required for a new hall. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391233451.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/9803262e4f9c62df4c43d25962081ae80ac0d3d20fe8b43fa614b1f098e4e456.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:06:55 | null | null | The precocious 8 year old spent his summer coming up with a business plan that's already generating seed money for future endeavours, | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F391343521.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Kelowna boy takes baby steps toward being a mogul | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | When it comes to summer break, most kids focus their efforts on getting the most out of the sunshine.
Not William Butler.
The precocious 8 year old spent his summer coming up with a business plan that's already generating seed money for future endeavours, with some left over for a good cause.
"He came to me and said he was interested in making money and said there was no way to do it that didn't include chores, which he didn't want to do," said Melissa Butler, William's mom.
So William came up with the idea of making calendars they could sell. At first William thought he'd do each one by hand, but he soon realized that it would be a lot easier to apply his tech savvy to the project and they found an online program that made it easy. Then he and his mom focused their energy at illustrating each month.
They decided to use their neighbour-dog as a model, and then William went about making sets. He and his mom had to go out and buy supplies, which were factored into the business plan, so they kept it cheap.
Campfires, birthdays and snorkelling are just a few of the themes William came up with and actualized using everything from cardboard paper to dollar store goods. He particularly liked the way the snorkelling scene worked out.
"Our whole living room was turned into a set," said Melissa, noting that it was a bit chaotic at times.
Then they snapped the photos, fed them into the program and, voila, a calendar was made. Actually, 100 were made.
And he's sold half of them.
"It's been really great seeing how confident he's becoming speaking to people," said Melisssa. She's also been impressed with how well he's lapping up business concepts, like costs and returns — something he has a ledger dedicated to.
"I never thought I'd be teaching this kind of thing to him, but it's what he wanted and I think it's great," she said.
William's calendars can be purchased by emailing Melissa at Mel_Butler@hotmail.com or they're available at so get them at Tail Blazers, at 1790 K. L. O. Road.
A part of the proceeds are being donated to the SPCA. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/community/391343521.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/9fc618f8cf3d07cc037d9292b8d4671a16298fd88b79ee9b94ce7686cd677254.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:13:29 | null | null | MLA travel expense claims are not being audited by the B.C. Auditor General's department. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391068121.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: MLA reimbursed for non-allowable travel expenses | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
The statutory regulation for B.C. members of legislative assembly expense claims is that MLAs claim expenses from their constituency offices to and from Victoria, all expenses while in Victoria, and expenses in regards to travel within the province outside of their elected constituency offices.
These are called allowable expenses.
These allowable expenses become non-allowable expenses when working in their home constituency offices. The reason for this is that all MLAs receive $119,000 per year for the financial management operation of their offices. No expense claims are allowed to them in their home constituency offices.
The NDP MLAs have their expense claims available on line to anyone who is interested to see what expenses are being reimbursed. Some examples of bogus expenses, are NDP MLAs claiming non-allowable expenses while working in their home riding. They include Sue Hammell claiming car mileage; Judy Darcy claiming car mileage and parking; Jane Shin claiming car mileage, breakfast, lunch and dinner meals; Bruce Ralston claiming lunches, Trans Link fares, parking and taxi; Kathy Corrigan claiming car mileage, taxi, breakfast and lunch meals, parking and Trans Link fares; Raj Chouhan claiming Trans Link fares, parking and mileage; Adrian Dix claiming Trans Link fares and parking.
Harry Bains and Mike Farnworth make allowable expense claims on taxi fares during their travels. These taxi fares average $100 per ride. Does this mean that they are avoiding public transit and taking a taxi from the Legislature to the ferry terminal?
My conclusion is that MLA travel expense claims are not being audited by the B.C. Auditor General's department. Also why are the accounting staff in the B.C. Legislature office writing out cheques for these bogus expense claims? No verification whatsoever is being dong.
One big joke! A license to print money on the B.C. taxpayer expense.
Joe Sawchuk, Duncan | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391068121.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/c4f6fbae41765438656ae80f984ddf6c4f3cb00e693bfa97e3a2316e2e6a25f5.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T16:50:21 | null | 2016-09-06T00:00:00 | Diverse range of live shows planned for the 260 seat theatre this fall, from comedey to fock, country folk and family events | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391418001.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/6952winfieldMazacote2016-09.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Lake Country's Creekside Theatre announces fall show series | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Mazacote, a west coast latin style dance band will appear at Creekside Theatre Sept. 10, kicking off the theatre's fall season of shows.
Lake Country’s Creekside Theatre will host an eclectic range of shows this fall, ranging from comedy to family, rock and country music.
The theatre launches its fall performance series during ArtWalk with a West Coast Latin Style Dance Band – Mazacote – performing Saturday, September 10th.
View the entire fall series here
Lake Country’s Cultural Development Coordinator, Ryan Donn, has a diverse range of live shows booked for the theatre from September through November with everything from Rock, Country, Folk, Jazz, Blues, Indie and Alternative music, to Comedy and Family shows as well as a Speaker event.
“It’s very exciting to launch our first jam-packed season of events this fall at the Creekside Theatre,” said Donn. “Due to the smaller size of the theatre – 260 seats – we can focus on hosting more intimate events while offering the most cost-effective shows in the valley at an average ticket price of $25.”
Train Wreck Comedy is a special feature with three shows from the Comedy genre in the fall series. The Folk Club is working with Creekside Theatre on the shows in that genre such as Fred Eaglesmith and Jim Byrnes (Blues/Folk); and the Lake Country Art Gallery is collaborating on a multi-disciplinary art, music and dance show on October 27.
Creekside Theatre is a busy community amenity on the George Elliot Secondary School campus across from Lake Country Municipal Hall. The theatre is easily accessible from highway 97 and has lots of free parking.
Tickets are available online at www.creeksidetheatre.com or can be purchased conveniently from the Kelowna Tickets outlet at Orchard Park Mall, at Tourism Kelowna visitor centre, or at the Customer Service counter at Lake Country Municipal Hall. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391418001.html | en | 2016-09-06T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/16d87773c9f05a9b346bdef28beddfde4659793483b9f0789ad9659a9b1744e4.json |
[
"Dan Albas"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:02 | null | null | …it makes sense to share an office between an MLA and an MP, to date it’s the only one in Canada, hence the interest from CPAC. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2F391083241.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | MP Albas 'stars' on CPAC | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | I was once told it’s important to recognize that each day, globally, there are roughly 100,000 scheduled flights that take off and land without drawing any media attention.
It is the flights that do not successfully take off and land that become the focus of media stories and often speculation.
The context of that analogy is that in public office it’s often the scandals and failures that tend to receive far more media attention than projects or policy that work effectively as intended.
This week it was particularly rewarding to participate in a media event profiling some of the more positive local initiates for public engagement.
CPAC, which many often believe is a taxpayer-funded Canadian parliamentary access channel, is actually owned and funded by Canada’s private broadcasters. A CPAC crew was in Central Okanagan-Similkameen Nicola earlier this week to profile, among other events, the Summerland pilot project that involves my shared constituency office with local area MLA Dan Ashton.
Aside from cost savings, this shared office better serves locals who are often unaware of what services are provincial and what are federal. They are not bounced between two different offices that may be located in different communities.
As much as it makes sense to share an office between an MLA and an MP, to date it’s the only one in Canada, hence the interest from CPAC.
Hopefully the idea will catch on elsewhere and the added exposure of our beautiful region should also help draw visitors to the area.
On the theme of shared offices, I would also like to publicly thank the mayors and councils in Princeton, Merritt and Keremeos for making space available so residents can meet their MP on a monthly basis. Operating budgets do not allow MPs or MLAs to open offices in every community they represent, so it helps when different levels of government work together. Constituents deserve to be heard and the ability to meet face to face with elected representatives is critical.
I also want to thank the many constituents who have visited the mobile constituency offices, as well as my regular office, to provide input and ask questions. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/391083241.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/d5d436b850e961d80d0dd8a1291b96c36149a06614ce68cde7a74dd8ab3a654a.json |
[] | 2016-08-27T14:51:33 | null | null | Goaltender who led West Kelowna Warriors to RBC Cup title to play in the CIS | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fsports%2F391338261.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/66961kelowna26Greenfield.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Greenfield joins U of C Dinos | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Former Warriors goaltender Matthew Greenfield will play this season in the Canada West conference.
American-born goaltender Matthew Greenfield is keeping his talents in Western Canada for the 2016-17 hockey season.
Greenfield, who graduated from the BCHL's West Kelowna Warriors during the off-season, has committed to the University of Calgary Dinos program.
The native of Parkland, FLA joined the Warriors in December of last season and played a major role in the team’s run to a BCHL Fred Page Cup, Western Canada Cup and RBC Cup titles.
The 6-foot-2, 190-pound netminder fashioned a 13-4-1 record with a .938 save percentage and 2.09 goals-against average in 18 regular-season contests. In the BCHL playoffs, he went 14-8 with a .932 save percentage and a 2.25 goals-against average.
Overcoming some injury setbacks at the Western Canada Cup and the RBC Cup, Greenfield got the start in the national championship game and turned in a stellar 48-save shutout in a Warriors 4-0 win over the host Lloydminster Bobcats.
The 21-year-old will join a Calgary squad coached by former Warriors bench boss Mark Howell. Other BCHL alums on the Dinos roster include Chase McMurphy, Danny Gayle and Dylan Walchuk.
Calgary competes in the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) Canada West division against UBC, Alberta, Lethbridge, Mount Royal, Manitoba, Regina and Saskatchewan. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/sports/391338261.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/3c17d6fd2139837272bb61faebe3155d88d42412d77defff7c2a6d23a6e4c930.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:12:47 | null | null | Kirby co-founded CoreHealth Technologies in 2004. The company now provides corporate wellness platforms to two million employees. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391318891.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/59025kelownaAnneMarie_2016web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Anne Marie Kirby: A Woman to Watch | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Anne Marie Kirby
Anne Marie Kirby started laying the foundations for entrepreneurship soon after becoming disillusioned with small-town ideas of achievement.
“I grew up in northern B.C., where people didn’t really go on to post secondary school. The most ambitious thing you could do was work at the local bank, because then you could get promotions and leave town later,” Kirby explained.
“So, after high school I worked at the bank for a few years, but I was working for a manager who didn’t want to promote me until I had six years of experience—so I went back to school for computer programming.”
Kirby soon practiced her programming skills in the health industry, working on hospital information systems. But she quickly found that health prevention and promotion was a more appealing niche.
“I’d rather deal with healthy people,” Kirby said. “But the market wasn’t there yet, so I watched it for a few years before starting my business.”
Kirby co-founded CoreHealth Technologies with Jeff Van Dyk in 2004. The company now provides businesses with a corporate wellness platform that supports two million employees all over the world.
For Kirby, the next major development in health technology will involve a more personalized and more fun way to maintain active lifestyles and engage in healthy behaviour.
“We’re looking at using notifications to bring information to people, rather than having people search out information. Technology can be a lot smarter about presenting the right information at the right time—so in heath tech, we’re moving from a ‘pull’ Internet to a ‘push’ Internet.”
Kirby also says that incorporating deliberate design into wellness programs will be critical in the future. Wellness is a complex problem, she says, and engineering-style thinking that involves multiple iterations of a solution will be a necessary approach.
One key area where Kirby wants to focus her effort is on making health technology accessible and fun for users.
“I’m a huge fan of Pokémon Go,” she said. “It’s the best thing that has ever happened to health and wellness technology. Nintendo has motivated a group of people who wouldn’t normally leave their computers to get out and get active—that’s a huge lesson for the world. I want our industry to start thinking about how people can get healthier by doing things they already want to do.”
Kirby says that the best corporate wellness programs incorporate a strong motivational aspect that promotes healthy habits in a new and exciting way.
“If you go to some of the industry websites, they all talk about the same process. So it’s well documented what has to happen in order to make a wellness program successful, but almost nobody actually does it.”
Kirby says that one of the best examples of making a wellness program fun and motivational comes from a CoreHealth client, employment benefits consultancy Morneau Shepell.
“Morneau Shepell is an Olympic sponsor, so they have contact with Canadian Olympic athletes—and they launched a program that brings athletes into the company to talk to employees about wellness programs. I don’t think you can get more motivational than working with Olympic athletes. Again, it goes back to finding a creative way to get people involved in something relevant and enjoyable.”
Kirby’s philosophy of getting healthy through fun activities extends into her personal life, where she strives to help children and young adults develop healthy habits. She serves as the Rotary Club Youth Exchange Officer for Kelowna, which gives her a prime opportunity to help youth get involved in the community. She’s also an avid skier and sailing enthusiast.
And while Kirby is now managing a successful and respected business, her path hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges she faces in her field is convincing people that they need a wellness solution.
“People don’t value their own health. It’s very illogical, which is a real struggle for me as a (logically-minded) computer person. That’s the hardest thing—employers try to help people, but they don’t want to do anything for their own good.”
Still, Kirby’s passion for health and wellness continues to drive her to promote healthy
behaviours in the workplace—in part because of a wise yet simple lesson she learned from her son.
“When my son was two years old, we were in a restaurant and we had a waitress who was saying that she wanted to go to school, but she couldn’t stop waitressing. My son said, ‘never, ever give up’—and the waitress said, ‘that’s the wisest thing I’ve ever heard.’”
Kirby says that stubborn resilience is what kept her going in spite of industry criticism. During one early investor meeting, she was taken aback when a potential investor told her to get a haircut.
Kirby says that she could have chosen to quit, but decided instead to continue growing CoreHealth out of her love for the industry.
“Wellness is one of the few things that, the more you sell, the better off everyone is. You can be successful and proud at the same time.”
Crowe MacKay’s Women to Watch program is a weekly feature that profiles remarkable women in our community, concluding Oct. 16. After terrific response, the nomination period for 2015 is now closed. Watch this space each week to see our remaining Women to Watch. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391318891.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/07978413d07df17b09cee2660c8645fbc8848756d35f0f9864ad6e1974936dcd.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T22:50:33 | null | null | Fire in the Victoria/Gladstone area in Peachland being attacked. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391447131.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/20850kelowna26fire.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Fire department dispatched to forested area in Peachland | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | A fire is burning near Victoria Street in Peachland,
There are district firefighters in the bush and the BC Wildfire Service has sent a team of six firefighters along with a helicopter and two tankers to the source.
Witnesses say firefighters have been "hitting it hard" from all angles.
"They have planes dropping retardant on it now," said Peachland resident Shannon Feicht.
Water-bombers and ground crews were in earlier.
The fire doesn't seem to be spreading just yet. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391447131.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/2fe621e82826d9fa4fa0e2c0f5a0976d14f82ee844d03e4e946aab8395da8eae.json |
[
"Warren Henderson"
] | 2016-08-26T13:13:46 | null | null | Sun leads BCFC with 5-0 mark, Rams right behind at 4-1 as teams square off on Saturday night | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fsports%2F391305601.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/53475kelownajt.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Unbeaten record to be tested in Langley | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Defensive back Jamie Turek and the Okanagan Sun will put the BCFC's only unbeaten record on the line Saturday night in Langley against the Rams.
There's nothing the Langley Rams would enjoy more than knocking the Okanagan Sun off their unbeaten perch in the B.C. Football Conference.
There's nothing the Sun would like more than solidifying their grip on top spot with their sixth consecutive victory of the 2016 campaign.
Only one team will get its way on Saturday night when the Rams (4-1) and Sun (5-0) meet for the first time this season at McLeod Athletic Park in Langley.
Sun defensive back Jamie Turek said there's no better way to open the second half of the season than a showdown between the league's top two teams.
"I'm not just looking forward to this as a player, but for our team as a whole, we're pretty excited for this game," said Turek, 22, a native of Winnipeg now in his fifth and final season with the Sun. "The (Rams) are fast, we're fast…they're aggressive, we're aggressive. I think we match up well against them, so it should be a great game."
After the Sun, the Rams are the conference's hottest team with four straight wins.
Led by running back Nathan Lund and receiver Khalik Johnson the Rams are averaging nearly 40 points per game this season, while the defense has allowed the fewest points (79) in the conference.
With home field on their aside, Sun coach Ben Macauley anticipates the Rams bringing all they have against the defending champs.
"I expect them to play with some desperation, they're going to want to push us and get into a first place tie with us," said Macauley. "From our side, we just need to look at continuing to improve our effort each week. I don't think we've played a complete game yet, it's never perfect, but we're getting closer.
"They have good coaching, and they're an explosive team," Macauley said of the Rams. "If we can can control the ball and keep their offence off the field, then we feel like there are some holes in their defense we can exploit. We're looking forward to going down there and seeing what we can do."
The Sun will once again have to rely on team depth due to some key injuries along the offensive line. Jeremy Williams, Matt Robinson and Cole Bertram will all be sidelined for Saturday's game against the Rams.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Sun is coming off its first shutout of the season, 31-0 over the Kamloops Broncos Saturday night at the Apple Bowl.
Jamie Turek said while the Sun doesn't expect to post a clean sheet every week, he said there is an increasing sense of both calm and confidence on the defensive side of the ball.
"The guys work so hard in practise, really committing to what we're trying to accomplish as a group," said Turek. "Just being part of this defense, it feels very calm out there, the guys have each other's backs and are playing for each other on every play."
The Sun's next home action is Saturday, Sept. 17 against the defending national champion Saskatoon Hilltops. Kick off at the Apple Bowl is 7 p.m.
Fullerton honoured…
Sun defensive back Beck Fullerton is the B.C. Football Conference's defensive player of the week.
In his fourth season with the club, the Winnipeg native made two interceptions, including one for a 72-yard touchdown, and had two tackles in Saturday night's 31-0 romp of the visiting Kamloops Broncos.
Fullerton and the Sun defense limited the Broncos to 225 yards of total offense. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/sports/391305601.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/b0881e407b62476273df295601822d3d9c422c85497ede5cc9a6813a9a4ed5e0.json |
[
"Kathy Michaels"
] | 2016-08-26T13:12:42 | null | null | A 27 year old woman was air-lifted to safety Thursday, after falling 100 feet down Crawford Falls. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391348261.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/67009kelownaFireDepartmentlogopiccopy.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Woman rescued from fall down Crawford Falls | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Kelowna firefighters put out a blaze at a fruit packing plant in the city early Wednesday morning.
A 27 year old woman was air-lifted to safety Thursday, after falling 100 feet down Crawford Falls.
Kelowna Fire Department arrived first on scene.
"Our team hiked in through a rugged trail, and assessed her and determined helicopter would be the best way to get her out," said platoon captain Steve Wallick.
That decision was based on the nature of the terrain as well as the condition of the woman.
"She was in a lot of pain and any movement was really hard on her," said Wallick.
With air rescue called, the fire department team still had to initiate a ground rescue, as a plan B.
"The guys tried to stabilize her the best they could and set up for a technical rescue up the hillside," he said.
Then air supports arrived.
Penticton Search and Rescue got the call that their helicopter extraction team was needed at around 12:25 p.m. and they were on site at 1:15 p.m., said Randy Brown, public relations officer for Penticton Search and Rescue.
"We performed the extraction and transferred her to BC ambulance," he said.
The woman was conscious at the time.
There's no word on the extent of her injuries. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391348261.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/9b14733da4270a08f10973606ec6d4fbbf051397793375b1b0ac8135765ae2eb.json |
[
"Marjorie Horne"
] | 2016-08-26T13:08:08 | null | null | The acronym of GRACE—Generosity, Resilience, Acceptance, Compassion and Engagement—keeps bringing me back to what is important | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Flifestyles%2F391083591.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Horne: Dealing with loss and generosity | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | My husband and I have been dealing with our beloved dog Jake and his aging body suffering the decline that can come with aging.
A sudden rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee have had us going to the vet, working to deal with the pain of this development and wondering what is the best plan of action.
Selling our house in five days, learning I am expecting my first grandchild and dealing with the loss of a dear client have rounded out the week.
With such a mix of emotions, it is not surprising I have wanted to just take to my bed and let myself absorb it all.
Life’s changing horizons can leave many of us feeling like we want things to just stop for a while so we can catch up, get our breath and figure out what all to do.
As I ponder these happenings that seem so filled with a sense of loss, but also punctuated with an exclamation mark of great joy, I wonder how to allow my heart to embrace the precious moment I have been anticipating amidst the current pain of letting go.
This circle of life that is ever present, the ebb and flow of birth and death seemingly happening on a continuous basis, causes me to want to withdraw when it becomes overwhelming.
Loss can be an initiator of wanting to close your heart to further pain. Anticipatory change can do the same thing. Feeling the need to make a shift, a course adjustment often presents as life unfolds in unexpected ways. The gift of aging is making room for the joys of becoming a grandparent, taking in the beauty of a sunrise, giving the extra love and care to someone you love as they come to the end of their life.
Feeling the need to slow down to smell the roses is something I came face to face with when my Mom became very ill and I brought her into our home to live. Having to face the fact that, of late I seem to have accelerated my life up to warp speed again and it is coming home to roost for some contemplation.
I listened to a wise teacher a couple of weeks ago share that a helpful phrase to repeat in such times of transition is “I consent to God’s plan for me.”
I have been saying that daily of late. Letting go of control is not easy for me.
Resistance for many of us kicks into full force when we are urged to surrender.
However, I usually eventually come to realize that I need to be quiet and listen. I need to open my heart to what is and what will be and look for the open path.
I am reminded of my own teaching about “GRACE” as we age.
The acronym of Generosity, Resilience, Acceptance, Compassion and Engagement keeps bringing me back to what is important as we travel these third chapter years.
•••
I opened my email this week to a request from an old high school friend to support her in the 2016 Parkinson’s SuperWalk.
This is a woman who can only inspire you to be better with her own giving nature.
Having been diagnosed with Parkinson’s nine years ago while still very young, she is a living example of strength and courage.
The “heart center” is the place where sending and receiving happens. This is where the sensations of generosity —or its lack—touch us with a feeling of openness or tightness.
As I read her email and remembered her ability to give to others amidst her own challenges, I was reminded of my own self-absorption of late.
I send her a gift of support for her walk and invite you to do the same.
Please email me at marjorie@caresmart.ca and I will forward you the information for her donation page to support this incredibly brave and wonderful person to reach her goal of $2,000.
I know, together, we can help her achieve that.
•••
Generosity to yourself is equally as important as giving to others. When we are treading on burnout, something I spoke of for caregivers a couple of columns back, taking time for yourself becomes imperative.
I have to look into my own mirror also and know when to take a break.
So booking a week off it is for me.
I begin my movement toward that by breathing into the overwhelm I feel this week and just receiving it, then sending generosity to my friend and to others as I breathe out from my heart.
I have to embrace my own aging and my need to rest more from time to time and send a generosity of white light from my own heart center to this “older me,”
I allow the feelings that surface about growing older and breathe them through. The whole mix of them: regret, sadness, curiosity, excitement, confusion and joy.
Letting all the emotions dissolve into consent fortifies resilience, encourages acceptance, nurtures compassion and when the time is right, returns you to engagement.
And I say softly to myself, “As I age, may I be kind to myself” and I begin again. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/lifestyles/391083591.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/9c2cdb6132e6b11aa14975a810c5a8ce3a3b5c50904f18e0f5836af2d327d882.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:13:37 | null | null | It is time to move beyond small town parochial attitudes and get on with creating a West Kelowna we can all be proud of. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391224491.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Let's build a city hall we can be proud of | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
As I follow the various opinions regarding the proposed new West Kelowna civic centre in Westbank, I have to say I certainly hope voters choose to get out there and vote to go ahead with this development. The consequences of turning down what appears to be a very well-studied and thought-out civic centre, would mean having to go back to the drawing board to come up with something else, something far more costly I suspect.
We have been aware since incorporation that the current location of our city offices at the Boucherie centre was to be temporary, and now it is time we returned that space to its intended use, as a community recreation facility. This was, after all, the intention from the beginning.
In his Mayor’s Message column in the July 2016 edition of the West Kelowna News leaflet, I thought Mayor Findlater did an admirable job of outlining the process that was undertaken to get to the point of bringing the proposal to the public. I can understand that some voters were not pleased with the alternative approval process but at the time it was the least costly way to go. The fact that some people chose to sign the petition against this may be more of an indication of disapproval of that process and not disapproval of the development itself.
\Many of those who have spoken against the proposal have stated it is in the wrong place but I have yet to hear any viable suggestion of where these people suggest would be a more suitable location. I can’t see a city hall sitting out off Hwy. 97 somewhere, or up in Lakeview Heights, or Glenrosa. The location in Westbank seems like the best choice so we can begin revitalizing what has been our traditional commercial area.
As far as the “us” and “them” attitude lingering from the building of the Johnson-Bentley pool, that was a different time and different governing system.
As for the proposed location not being “central” enough, Kelowna City hall seems to work just fine despite being on the edge of that city. West Kelowna’s proposed site sits nicely within our population density zone. It is time to move beyond small town parochial attitudes and get on with creating a West Kelowna we can all be proud of.
I am hopeful that once voters get informed, the majority will vote Yes.
Donna Campbell, West Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391224491.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/9fb941562361e85f8e042c0ab17aac3d8c60eacac2d2a05476a0aab43a55f26f.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T12:55:46 | null | null | Born in Chula Vista, California, Iglesias is known for his shows I'm Not Fat… I'm Fluffy and Hot & Fluffy. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fentertainment%2F390322731.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | US comic Gabriel Iglesias to perform in Kelowna | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Gabriel Iglesias, the American comic known as Fluffy, will perform at Prospera Place in Kelowna Nov. 4, and tickets are going on sale this week.
Iglesias is known for his shows I'm Not Fat… I'm Fluffy and Hot & Fluffy.
He is the youngest of six children, raised by a single mother. Growing up, the family lived in Section 8 housing in Long Beach, California.
It was during his childhood that he developed a strong sense of humor to deal with the obstacles he faced. In 1997, he set out to hone his comedic skills, and performed stand-up anywhere he could find an audience; including biker bars and hole-in-the-wall joints.
His stand-up comedy is a mixture of storytelling, parodies, characters and sound effects that bring his personal experiences to life. His unique and animated comedy style has made him popular among fans of all ages. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/entertainment/390322731.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/35c8570f4da3e98e1fbcbdc809e56c70175eb8136e1b96810d266e3823cbcf6b.json |
[
"Canadian Press"
] | 2016-08-27T02:50:35 | null | null | Forest fires tore through northeastern B.C., but then cooler weather took over June into July. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.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.kelownacapnews.com/news/391429961.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/8d7ac1f4824ab9634c8f865d5e955edbccfff9a15780813d4c46cf4eb3269375.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:13:33 | null | null | It is very satisfying to know that Kelowna Regional Transit System has employees who are so dedicated to the public. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F390745751.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Transit workers come to dog's rescue | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
We wish to formally recognize and thank Adam McMullin and his night shift crew at Kelowna Regional Transit Yard for going beyond the call of duty in rescuing my lost dog the evening of 11 August.
The dog, after wandering away, was chased into the yard by an irate deer. He was frightened and evasive, but Mr McMullin managed to keep him contained in the Regional Transit Yard, meanwhile making several phone calls in an attempt to locate its owner. Finally the RCMP provided my name and phone number and Mr McMullin was able to contact my parents and me. This episode took about five hours of concerted effort, but they never gave up, ensuring the frightened dog stayed contained within the yard until there was a resolution.
Upon retrieval, a well-deserved reward was offered to the yard personnel involved, but Mr. McMullin and his crew turned it down, instead advising us to ‘pay it forward.’
It is very satisfying to know that Kelowna Regional Transit System has employees who are so dedicated to the public that they will go beyond the norm to assist in any way they can. Our most heartfelt thanks to all of them for their concern and help.
The Broughton family, Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/390745751.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/1fd730f1438341d2e730b61cf233e2cba4561d318a71ec6a3cd88d855152c79b.json |
[] | 2016-08-30T00:51:34 | null | null | Suspected impaired driver faces charges after single-vehicle accident early Sunday morning. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fnews%2F391671841.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/9859kelowna01RCMPcrest-web.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Kelowna driver lucky to escape injury say police | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Kelowna RCMP say an impaired driver is lucky to have escaped serious injury after the vehicle he was driving hit a tree on Pandosy Street, early Sunday morning.
According to police, on Sunday, at 6:14 a.m. they responded to a report of a vehicle that had collided with a tree in the 1900-block of Pandosy Street. Emergency crews arrived to find a badly damaged grey Honda CR-V and the male driver out of the vehicle. He was alone.
Police say their preliminary findings suggest the Honda was travelling north on Pandosy when the driver failed to negotiate a right curve.
As a result, it is believed that the vehicle struck the curb, slid backwards across the roadway, went over the sidewalk and smashed into a tree on the vehicles rear passenger side.
Investigators say alcohol is believed to have been a contributing factor following their interview of the driver at the scene.
He was subsequently given a breath test to indicate a level of intoxication and it registered higher then the legal limit.
The driver was taken to hospital for an assessment and later taken to the Kelowna RCMP detachment, where he provided another breath sample which also read over the legal limit.
The driver was released from custody, issued driving prohibitions and faces potential impaired driving charges.
Witnesses to the crash, who have not yet spoken to police, are asked to call the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/391671841.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/f9bacf181b2107ea45e858d1bf7fac4a96ae526c05328334562605c9ba05fc44.json |
[
"Charlie Hodge"
] | 2016-08-26T13:07:10 | null | null | Capital News columnist says NHL hockey remains a point of ongoing chatter even during the summer. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F385912431.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/34821kelowna08Eric_Lindros_2014.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Hodge: Canada Day festivities a grand celebration | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | New hockey hall of fame inductee Eric Lindros was a controversial figure during his NHL career, and continues to generate heated discussion about his legacy to the game in his retirement.
Wasn't that a party?
While Canadians may not boast the same swagger and bravado of national allegiance as that of our neighbours to the south, there is no question Canadians know how to celebrate a national birthday.
July 1 in Kelowna was a marvelous display of national pride, unity, community, and family fun wrapped into one.
It was a day filled with smiles, laughter and a wonderful, embracing, all encompassing experience - with no other motivation other than to celebrate who we are and the land we share. From what I witnessed - we did a grand job.
Full points to event organizers, volunteersv and city workers for helping host a fabulous day of fun for all.
Tez and I joined thousands of other locals and tourists at Tugboat Bay (and various other parts of Kelowna's waterfront) to take part in the many special events of the day. Certainly this year's party ranks as one of the best. From beginning to end it was a total success.
Headline entertainers The Cruzeros rocked the massive beach crowd for almost an hour and a half straight. Combining a bundle of original tunes from their three records with a number of classic country-roots covers the band kept the packed beach singing and hopping.
Several thousand music fans were spread out along the sand, sidewalks and the entire boardwalk connecting Tugboat Bay to the Delta Grand Hotel. The superb weather, perfect sky, magnificent music, dynamic lighting, and festive atmosphere culminated in a truly magical setting.
The Cruzeros perfectly tenderized the crowd for the highly anticipated explosive grand finale fireworks display.
Once again organizers outdid themselves with a tremendous pyrotechnics performance, unparalleled from past years. On a couple occasions the crowd suspected the show was over, only to be pleasantly surprised by another outburst of amazing lights and explosions.
A great way to end a great day.
***
Only in Canada can the game of hockey be a dominant part of coffee shop conversations in the first week of July.
Just when hockey widows and orphans figured summer had arrived and playoff games were finally off TV along comes the junior draft, hockey hall of fame selections, and Steve Stamkos Sweepstakes (better known as free agency opens). Oh yeah—and an expansion to Las Vegas for the 2017-18 season.
Howeve,r no announcement was going to take away from the once mighty Toronto Maple Leafs picking Auston Matthews number one in the junior draft; taking what millions of fans hope is a major step towards returning to hockey glory once again.
No other Maple Leaf draft pick or hopeful recruited in the past 50 years has garnered the attention Mathews has. Hopefully Toronto gives him a proper chance.
Certainly Leaf management and ownership are on the same page for the first time since, well, forever. Leaf fans believe there is hope for a solid rebuild back to respect with the Babcock-Shanahan plan.
Stamkos going absolutely nowhere as a free agent was disappointing considering all the hype up until he announced his decision to stay with Tampa Bay Lightning.
P.K Suban traded from Montreal to Nashville for former Kelowna Rocket favourite Shea Webber certainly made more noise than any free agency signing. Montreal got the better of this deal. Webber brings maturity, leadership without bravado, a tough presence and plenty of scoring.
The Habs prefer a team sprinkled with stars, not a demigod relishing in the media spotlight. Suban was simply too over-the-top for Montréal. It will be interesting to watch him grow (or not) in Nashville.
However, the hockey story that caught my eye, and my ire, is the Hall of Fame selecting Eric Lindros as an inductee.
I don't get it.
There is no denying Lindros was a talented hockey player. The first 1991 draft pick was dominant when healthy during his eight seasons with the Flyers, totaling 659 points (290 goals, 369 assists) in 486 regular-season games from 1992-93 through 1999-2000. He had 56 points in 50 Stanley Cup playoff games and helped the Flyers reach the finals in 1997.
Injuries including several concussions stopped Lindros from having a bigger impact and eventually cut short his career. Despite his skills, many question his selection to the hall of fame since part of the significant criteria includes considering the character of the person involved, and their betterment of the game.
Lindros showed a lack of class on his first day in NHL refusing to report to Québec Nordiques who drafted him. Such a snub came at a particularly uncomfortable time in Canadian history and added salt to wounds already impacting our great nation. He made a lot of non-fans during his draft season and during his following eight seasons did little to enamor himself with many hockey fans.
Lindros, 43, had been eligible for induction since 2010, and was passed over six times previously,.
When looking at the quality of outstanding people named to the Hall of Fame such as Gordie Howe, Bob Orr and others, the selection of Lindros somewhat cheapens the honour.
Selection should be based on much more than just mere numbers. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/community/385912431.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/c8cf17aa60e962d7513a73cb6d7a16dbd53470fd63d39c12fb2f4197b3a18b25.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:13:11 | null | null | Kelowna council was just recently ecstatic about a proposed RV park on a golf course which is firmly planted on agricultural land. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F390711281.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Farm-based RV parks work for the farmer, tourist and city coffers | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
Re: City Dumps RV Use on Farmland, Aug. 10 Kelowna Capital News
Agri-tourism RV parks as failed experiment. Not likely. From the very start the City of Kelowna and the media have failed to explain the reason why the city says we are not in compliance and why I personally have retained a lawyer to represent our RV park in the city's lawsuit against us.
In 2010 the city brought in new bylaws pertaining to agri-tourism. Throughout the three public hearings we were repeatedly told that the existing RV parks would be grandfathered. Right at the end of the last public hearing Couns Stack and Blanleil made a motion that the existing RV parks should comply with an April 1 to Nov. 1 opening time frame (November through March closure). The city clerk informed Council that they could use the business licence bylaw to enforce the time restrictions in the new bylaw on the existing RV parks.
As I was a city councillor at the time I could not participate in any of the discussions; however during the process and repeatedly since then I have said that proper procedure was not followed.
In 2014 the city issued all the RV parks that were staying open past Nov. 1 a $500 bylaw infraction ticket. They focused on one RV park (not ours) but case law was introduced that proved the city cannot use the business licensing bylaw to enforce a land use bylaw.
Recently the city changed tactics and now maintains that we weren’t in compliance prior to the 2010 bylaw coming into effect. One of the arguments presented against me by the city to prove my non-compliance is that I have used more than five per cent of my property for my RV park. However, city staff has never mentioned that before the new bylaw came into effect the city actually allowed 10 per cent of property to be used. City staff and council have failed to mention that they actually wanted nothing to do with the agri-tourism RV parks prior to the new bylaw.
I recently put a package together and tried to meet with each [currently sitting] councillor to explain my position. Couns Stack and Singh didn’t have the common courtesy to respond to my request and Coun.s Given and Dehart were unwilling to discuss the matter. To their credit, the four newly elected councillors did meet with me, as did the mayor.
Throughout the last five years the focus has been on the existing agri-tourism RV parks shutting down for five months (November through March) in order to comply with the 2010 bylaw. Not once have I said I would not close my RV park but a five month closure is punitive and quite frankly, stupid. There are tourists moving through Kelowna in November and December bound for the U.S. and March is one of our busier months with people returning to Canada from the U.S.
Council and city staff have spent an inordinate amount of time and money trying to enforce a bylaw that does not apply to us.
Agri-tourism RV parks a failed experiment? Council was just recently ecstatic about a proposed RV park on a golf course which is firmly planted on agricultural land. They had no qualms about approving 30 sites on some of the best agricultural land in Kelowna. Coun. Stack was particularly vocal about what a fantastic idea this was despite the fact that he has been one of the main detractors of the current agri-tourism RV parks that are located on land actually engaged in agriculture.
Despite what council thinks about the lack of agriculture in the agri-tourism RV parks, our guests at Scenic View RV park are, at this moment, delighted to walk into our orchard and pick tree-ripened peaches. They sit at their picnic tables and watch our free-range beef roam though our pasture and enjoy the view of the surrounding orchards and fields.
We are not a failed experiment. We are a viable, legitimate agri-tourism business that brings in thousands of dollars annually to the City of Kelowna. We were in business prior to the existing bylaw coming into effect. At the public hearing in 2010 we were told that we were grandfathered and we continue to operate under that assumption.
Graeme James, Scenic View RV Park, Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/390711281.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/7099db795a2d1e5737df0fc77c8dd325991b8540930a4d2742f3d6e7b4c391fa.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:06:04 | null | null | Bacterial levels are currently higher than those allowed in the Guidelines for Canadian Recreational Water Quality. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F390721091.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Swimming advisory for Beasley and Reiswig Parks beach | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | Interior Health Authority has recommended the Central Okanagan Regional District post swim advisory signs at Reiswig Regional Park.
The District of Lake Country has followed suit and posted swim advisory signs on the adjoining Beasley Park on Wood Lake until further notice due to poor water quality.
Beach Water Quality
Lake water is not pristine, and beach water quality can fluctuate due to a number of factors including lake currents, runoff and the outflow of creeks, changing environmental factors and waterfowl and animal waste.
Additionally, Water Quality is typically poorer in the summer when the warm weather escalates bacterial growth and swimmers stir up the lake bottom.
Swimming Advisory
A Swimming Advisory is a notice to swimmers that bacterial levels are currently higher than those allowed in the Guidelines for Canadian Recreational Water Quality. The maximum allowable number of E. coli bacteria in recreational water is 200 per 100-millilitre sample. IHA recomends an advisory when the bacterial counts geometric mean is high over a period of multiple samples.
The risk of infection is directly related to bacterial counts in the water. When E. coli reaches 200 units per 100 millilitre sample it’s expected that one per cent of bathers may develop gastrointestinal illness (GI) if these bacteria are ingested. For every one GI illness, two to three other illnesses – skin rashes (swimmer’s itch excluded) and eye, ear and throat symptoms – can be expected. The very young, the very old and people with weakened immunity are the most susceptible.
When a Swimming Advisory is in place signage will be posted at the affected beach.
Once testing shows bacteria levels have returned to acceptable levels the Swimming Advisory will be lifted and the signage removed.
Protect Yourself
• Avoid swallowing lake water
• Avoid swimming with an open cut or wound
• Avoid swimming for 24-hours after a significant rainfall
• Stay away from the water if you are experiencing digestive or intestinal problems
• Wash your hands before handling food
Protect the Beach
• Don’t feed the birds
• Don’t take your pet to most beaches
• Don’t litter or discard food on the beach
• Change diapered children in the bathroom frequently, not at the beach
• Dispose of boat sewage in onshore sanitary facilities
• Wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet or after changing diapers
• Never bury waste in beach sand
• Call 250-766-5650 if you see something that needs our attention
For more information on beach water quality, contact Interior Health at 250 862-4200.
Water Testing
Each summer, municipal staff collect water samples from a number of our beaches for Interior Health to test and analyze. Beaches that historically have shown higher than acceptable coliform counts at certain periods during the summer months are sampled weekly, with no
fewer than five samples in a 30-day period.
The District of Lake Country is also taking measures to enhance beach water quality including the implementation of a valley-wide Goose Management Plan.
Understanding Beach Water Quality
• Disease-causing microorganisms in water include bacteria, viruses and parasites (e.g. Giardia and Cryptosporidium). These disease-causing organisms can be discharged directly to water bodies or transported with surface runoff. Sources are numerous and include discharge of untreated sewage, runoff from agricultural activities and wastes from waterfowl and wild and domestic animals. Fertilizers, pesticides, and garbage can also contaminate beach water
• Beach water quality is typically poorer in summer due to warmer water temperatures and the number of people swimming. Contamination is also more likely to increase during and after rainstorms.
• Escherichia coli (E. coli) belongs to a group of bacteria called fecal coliforms that originate in the digestive tract of warm-blooded animals. E. coli is a common human bacteria primarily used as indicator bacteria and should not be confused with E. Coli 0157:H7 which causes outbreaks of bloody diarrhea, however, there are categories of E. coli that cause diarrhea. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/community/390721091.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/71dce4079adca06cc5c75bc375e97f346fc7b111bbe9e3e97e02d9eccef25446.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T13:03:36 | null | null | Lambert Schmalz and Gord Wilson each pledged $50,000 to Okanagan College's trades training facilities in Kelowna. | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fcommunity%2F385082571.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/94708kelowna29OCdonationSchmalz-wilsonweb.jpg?t=12345? | en | null | Alumnus ante-up for Okanagan College's trades training | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | An alumnus with a connection to Okanagan College that spans more than five decades has made a gift to inspire the next generation of tradespeople who will follow in his footsteps.
Lambert Schmalz, owner of Lambert & Paul Construction Ltd., pledged $50,000 toward the Bright Horizons campaign in support of the new Trades Training Complex at the college’s Kelowna campus.
The donation was matched by his friend and colleague Gord Wilson.
The new three-storey tower opened to students in April, as part of an overall $33-million, 10,000 sq. metre renovation and expansion project.
“The college and this region are very dear to me,” said Schmalz, who was born in Germany and immigrated to Canada in 1956 after completing his training as a journeyperson carpenter.
“I am proud to support the place where our future tradespeople will train.”
At that time, there were only 9,600 people in Kelowna and very few residential or commercial builders.
He says the opening of the College (then B.C. Vocational School) in 1963, helped spark the growth of the construction industry in the years that followed, and was critical in developing a culture of apprenticeship in the valley.
“Having come up through the European system of apprenticeship which has been going strong for hundreds of years, I was surprised by how little apprenticeship there was in the valley when I arrived,” explained Schmalz.
“I am pleased with the progress that has been made to change that over time, and the college has played a big role in that development.”
Schmalz’s involvement with the college has taken many forms over the years.
As a student, he took business courses in the mid-1960s, adding bookkeeping, drafting, and estimating to the skills he learned as a journeyman Carpenter travelling Europe.
He also served on the program advisory board for the carpentry program for more than a decade beginning in the 1970s.
In 2004, Okanagan University College conferred upon Schmalz an honourary doctorate, in recognition of his long-term involvement.
“Lambert has been a dedicated champion and supporter of the College for many years,” said Okanagan College president Jim Hamilton.
“We deeply appreciate his significant contributions to our institution and his dedication to advancing apprenticeship in the Okanagan.”
In addition to founding multiple contracting companies, Schmalz was also a founding member of the Okanagan chapter of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA), a professional organization that promotes affordability and choice in the residential construction industry.
Individuals and businesses from the construction sector have contributed more than $500,000 to the Bright Horizons campaign to date.
Schmalz recently challenged the valley’s builders to reach the $1-million mark.
“These tradespeople are our future work force,” said Schmalz. “If we don’t support them, who will?”
It is a message echoed by Gord Wilson. Wilson, owner of Team Construction, who also donated $50,000 to the campaign.
OC’s Trades Training Complex is now open to students; a grand opening is being planned for September.
The three-year capital construction project rejuvenated existing spaces to match the same sustainability standards of the new tower, which is targeting LEED Platinum, net-zero energy usage, and carbon-neutrality.
The complex will allow the college to train more than 2,700 students per year in Kelowna.
The Okanagan College Foundation is aiming to raise an additional $5 million for capital construction and $2 million for program and student support, to top up the provincial government’s $28 million investment. | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/community/385082571.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/49da9869b4cfb5e876d920cf736831870922e8f35b8ef45d3ec1bc3a5548408c.json |
[] | 2016-08-26T20:50:49 | null | null | This suggests to me that a select few will be deciding the future of the Rutland Parks Society… | http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kelownacapnews.com%2Fopinion%2Fletters%2F391433421.html.json | http://media.bclocalnews.com/images/BlackNewsMedia-CLR.png?t=12345? | en | null | Letter: Rutland Parks Society member not included in decision-making | null | null | www.kelownacapnews.com | To the editor:
As a member of the Rutland Parks Society, I have read the articles about "special members meetings" in which it appears there are "chaotic factions" and "raucous factions" who are making decisions on behalf of the society without including all the members.
In the past two years I received email notices of meetings, but I have received no such notices for any of the meetings held this summer. This suggests to me that a select few will be deciding the future of the Rutland Parks Society without including all the members in the decision-making process.
Paul Neustaedter, Kelowna | http://www.kelownacapnews.com/opinion/letters/391433421.html | en | 2016-08-01T00:00:00 | www.kelownacapnews.com/0c39e91a9065537120a1e661ca00f562664677c1aebd6f90cbf0604030eff7b5.json |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.