Abbotsford Times August 20 2013 by Abbotsford Times

INSIDE: Free dental clinic saves smiles

Pg. 3

August 20, 2013

T U E S D A Y

Rockin’ 12 Relive River Music Fest 

NEWS,

SPORTS

ENTERTAINMENT



abbotsfordtimes.com

Pythons seized in Mission

Nearly 50 snakes taken; largest was 14 feet long ROCHELLE BAKER RBaker@abbotsfordtimes.com

lose to 50 pythons were seized by conservation officers after 100 snakes were discovered in a Mission home on Thursday. Insp. Chris Doyle of the B.C. Conservation Officer Service said the property owners called out the agency after they discovered the slew of reptiles at the rental property.

PAISLEY

At least half a dozen conserva- rest were smaller.” tion officers descended on the There were approximately 50 Van Velzen Avenue other snakes at the property that they home that weren’t First reported @ cordoned off with abbotsfordtimes.com prohibited but are yellow police tape restricted under the a n d w h e re t h e y Wildlife Act, includspent most of the day dealing ing some smaller python species with the situation. and boa constrictors, said Doyle. Conservation officers ultimately No venomous animals were in the discovered 46 reticulated pythons, home, he added. which are prohibited exotic aniSo many conservation officers mals under the provincial Wildlife were on scene due to the large Act as a controlled animal species, number of animals to be secured said Doyle. and to ensure public safety, said The longest python in the Doyle. house was just over 14 feet long, “There’s no reason to believe he said. any snakes have escaped.” “There were six larger ones, see SNAKES, page A5 including the biggest one . . . the

– ROCHELLE BAKER/TIMES

Conservation officers inform the snakes’ owner, above in yellow safety vest, that dozens of his illegal reticulated pythons were euthanized on Thursday.

Home invaders intimidate teens

– ROCKS THE RIVER

SCAN FOR PHOTOS –JEAN KONDA-WITTE/TIMES

Country music star Brad Paisley brought down the house Friday night at the Rockin’ River Music Fest in Mission. Big & Rich were the headliners on Saturday night. For more photos, see pages 12 – 13 and www.abbotsfordtimes.com for a gallery of the event.

wo home invaders pushed past a 16-yearold boy to rob valuables from an Abbotsford residence on Wednesday afternoon. Two men entered the townhouse in the 32400 b l o c k o f K i n g Ro a d a t 3:50 p.m. when the teen answered the door, said Sgt. Elly Wright. The two suspects took the victim and his friend to an upstairs bedroom and stole money, jewelry and electronics. The robbers fled in a darkcoloured, two-door car with a fist-sized rust stain above the driver’s side rear wheel well. No weapon was produced and the teenage victim and his friend were unharmed, said Wright. One suspect is described

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as Caucasian, approximately 30 years old, with an average build and wearing a red hoodie. He was five feet ten inches tall with short brown hair and scabs on his face. The second suspect, also approximately 30 years old, was unshaven with a darker skin tone and a tattoo of a star like figure on the right of his neck. He was wearing a black hoodie and was five feet nine inches tall, with an average to heavy build and short spiked black hair. Anyone with information about this incident should call the Abbotsford Police Department at 604-8595225 or text 222973 (abbypd) or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

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Upfront

THE TIMES TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 ❘

Running on Empty:

What’s Layared in today’s paper Page 1-

Photos of snake seizure house in Mission, and more of Brad Paisley in concert.

Page 12-13

For more photos from Rockin’ River Fest in Mission. To join the more than 28 million people who have downloaded Layar, visit layar.com or your app store and start scanning your newspaper today.

Join the discussion of every issue’s top stories on our Facebook page: w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / AbbotsfordTimes

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Free dental clinic sparks smiles

ROCHELLE BAKER RBaker@abbotsfordtimes.com

bbotsford resident Marge Henr y has a beautiful smile. And her fabulous pearly whites are something the 92-year-old credits to the Abbotsford Food Bank Dental Clinic. Henry, who like many seniors is on a limited income, recently got dentures through the clinic. Dentures that she otherwise might not be able to afford. Henry, who doesn’t have dental coverage, attended her regular dentist last year to find out that a needed bridge or dentures could cost as much as $3,000. “I was appalled,” said Henry, noting her budget couldn’t take that kind of hit. Luckily, Henry’s daughter did some research and found out about the food bank’s free dental clinic that helps patients with low incomes and little or no dental coverage. Local dentists, certified dental assistants and hygienists who volunteer their time and services, staff the clinic. In the end, Henry paid a total of $335 to cover lab fees for her new dentures; all her dental work was free. “I couldn’t believe it,” she said. What’s more, Henry said the care she gets at the clinic is top notch. “The attitude here is wonderful. They don’t make you feel that you don’t have any money,” she said. Abbotsford dentist Raymond Dyck founded the food bank’s dental clinic around five years ago with the help of dentist Alex Yule, who’d established similar operations in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. While working as a dentist on a faith-based mission in Kenya, Dyck decided he needed to take action in his own hometown. “My eyes were opened to the fact there was a similar need closer to home,” he said. Generous donors contributed trade work, dental equipment or construction materials to make the clinic a

– ROCHELLE BAKER/TIMES

Volunteer dentist Tom Walker shares a smile with 92-year-old Marge Henry at the Abbotsford Food Bank Dental Clinic. Henry, who is on a limited income, was able to get dentures thanks to the free clinic and the dental experts working there. reality. Since then, some very dedi- each dentist just offered to cover one cated dentists and hygienists have day, we’d be in better shape.” Lala Khankishi-Zade, the dental put in countless volunteer hours to ensure the operation succeeds, he clinic administrator, said the clinic helps a wide range of clients such as noted. However, the dental clinic is, in people on social assistance or disability, seniors, part, a victim of its students and own success and the working can’t adequately “I’d like to see us open more poor. meet the burgeon- often. We have the demand to be Demand at ing demand for its open five days a week. With 70 the clinic is services. high as denPatients requir- dentists in Abbotsford, if each tal services i n g n o n - e m e rare costly and gency dental care dentist just offered to cover one many people can be on the wait day, we’d be in better shape.” d o n’ t h a v e list for up to a year coverage. before their first – Raymond Dyck, dentist Even if they visit. do, they may And currently not be able to the office is only open two days a week due to lack of pay their portion of the dental plan fees, she said. volunteer staff and resources. Getting dental care or dentures can “I’d like to see us open more often. We have the demand to be open five make a huge difference in someone’s life. days a week,” said Dyck. For one senior, getting dentures “With 70 dentists in Abbotsford, if

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The Abbotsford/Mission Times is featuring its Running on Empty series in coming weeks about the Abbotsford Food Bank and Mission Food Centre that highlights the work each organization does and some of the people they serve. Today’s feature examines the free dental clinic at the Abbotsford Food Bank.

RON KANDT

NEWS

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meant he could eat meat and other solid foods again, said KhankishiZade. In another case, a woman who works as a greeter at a big box store could replace the dentures her grandson had flushed down the toilet. Just on Thursday, a father of four who’d missed two days on the job due to the pain of an abscessed tooth was able to return to work. In an effort to help more people in a more timely manner, the dental clinic has developed the Sponsor One Smile (SOS) program. Participating sponsors from the dental, donor or business community can help by contributing time at the clinic or funds to cover lab costs, supplies and equipment.

■ For more information on the

Abbotsford Food Bank Dental Clinic visit abbotsfordfoodbank.com/programs/dental-clinic/.

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THE TIMES TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 ❘

Illegal ones euthanized Driver SNAKES, from page A1 The massive seizure of the pythons in Mission takes place after two young boys in Campbellton, N.B. were killed in their sleep by an African rock python after it escaped from its enclosure the night of Aug. 4. A veterinarian was called in to euthanize the illegal Mission pythons for safety’s sake and because there is nowhere to house the animals, said Doyle. “There is an approved facility that can sometimes take in [controlled species] but they indicated they didn’t have room and couldn’t care for them,” said Doyle. The owner of the remaining snakes will have to demonstrate he can properly care for them before they are returned to him, he added. “The SPCA would have to ensure that he can take care of the animals,” he said. SPCA spokeswoman Lorie Chortyk said the snakes’ owner has made an agreement with the landlord to return and move the remaining snakes within three days, said Chortyk. The largest is a six-foot-long red-tailed boa; the remainder of the species are around one or two feet long and include bull, gopher and king snakes, she said. The SPCA won’t take control of any of the creatures as the animal welfare group doesn’t have the capacity to care for the snakes. The situation highlights why the SPCA opposes people owning exotic animals, said Chortyk. “It’s for the owners’ safety and the welfare of the animals,” she said. “It’s not fair to these animals . . . they shouldn’t be living lives in aquariums and

then euthanized because people can’t keep them and can’t care for them properly. “And now this poor landlord is dealing with hundreds of these snakes.” The snakes were discovered as the landlord was enacting an eviction order. Neighbours who didn’t want to be named said they were horrified and had no idea the snakes were in the house. “I was blown away,” said a neighbour. “They could hurt kids, adults or even dogs if they got loose.” Veterinarian Adrian Walton, a specialist in exotic species, said reticulated pythons could grow up to 18 feet long. “They are a grumpier snake,” he said. While some larger snakes are not appropriate in people’s homes, others can make wonderful pets, said Walton. The vast majority of snakes aren’t dangerous, he said. “Snakes under seven to eight feet long represent no risk to humans, as compared to a dog or a horse that can pose a greater danger.” Doyle said the seizure of multiple pythons is not uncommon but he can’t recall dealing with a larger number of animals than in the Mission file. The investigation into the illegal pythons is still under way. It’s too early to say if the owner was breeding the snakes and if charges will be laid under the Wildlife Act, he said. The maximum penalty for a first-time conviction for illegal possession of a prohibited species is $100,000 or a maximum prison term of up to a year or both, said Doyle. Details were unavailable as to how many snakes remained in the house as of Friday and as to what type of enclosure the snakes

charged in crash

bbotsford Police have secured charges against the driver in a fatal crash on Townline Road. Maninderjit Brar, 23,is charged with dangerous driving causing death, dangerous driving causing bodily harm, causing death by criminal negligence, causing bodily harm by criminal negligence. Initially, the APD did not get full cooperation from the car’s occupants about identifying who was driving the vehicle involved in the crash. “The investigation has revealed [Brar] was the driver,” said Sgt. Elly Wright. The 19-year-old crash victim, identified by Global B.C. as Gurgan Sidhu, was killed Aug. 6 when a red Acura lost control and went into a ditch along Townline near Olund. Four men, including Sidhu, were in the car. A resident who investigated after hearing the crash was asked by some of the vehicle’s occupants not to call police and to take them to hospital herself, according to police. Brar will appear in Abboprovincial court Sept. 19.

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A6 ❘ NEWS ❘ TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 THE TIMES

Mega concert proposed for YXX

Briefly Money flows back to Mission Due to faulty recording in bulk water meters from 2007 to 2011, the District of Mission will be reimbursed $359,000 by the City of Abbotsford. The two municipalities jointly manage their water supply through the Abbotsford-Mission Water and Sewer Commission, with each paying for their portion of water usage. The numbers weren’t adding up to the expected “balance of probabilities, pointing to an inaccuracy in the bulk meters,” the commission heard at AMWSC meeting in June. The dodgy bulk water meters showed Mission was taking in more water than it actually did, which resulted in the district getting overcharged. Mission district council approved the recommendation on Aug. 6. The Abbotsford council is expected to officially give their approval on Aug. 26 so that Mission can receive the money. The reimbursement will be used to further improve Mission’s water infrastructure.

$65,000+ raised for Zajac kids

Thousands of patrons across B.C. and Alberta visited White Spot restaurants Wednesday for the annual Pirate Pak Day fundraiser, helping Canada’s longest-running restaurant chain raise a record $65,916 to send kids and youth with special needs to Zajac Ranch for Children in Mission. White Spot donated $2 from each kids and adult Pirate Pak sold – plus contributions received in lieu of Pirate Paks – to Zajac Ranch, an established B.C. charity that gives children and young adults with life-threatening illnesses and chronic disabilities an unforgettable camp experience. The Pirate Pak initiative has raised a total of $268,386 and sent 160 kids to summer camp since the program began in 2008. “Pirate Pak Day has once again resulted in an incredible outpouring of generosity from White Spot guests,” says White Spot president Warren Erhart. “We are delighted to celebrate a record-breaking donation. This year we sold 32,458 Pirate Paks to both the young and youngat-heart, providing the opportunity for us to help even more kids enjoy life-changing experiences at Zajac Ranch.” “White Spot has demonstrated a true commitment to improving the lives of children and young adults with special needs by supporting Zajac Ranch,” said Mel Zajac, founder of the children’s ranch.

CHRISTINA TOTH CToth@abbotsfordtimes.com

ang on to your hats, Abbotsford. The city could make rock history this time next year if organizers for a proposed mega Myxxfest concert can turn their dreams into reality. Think Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Elton John or similar rock titans performing to 75,000 or more fans at the Abbotsford International Airport for a three-day music and fundraising extravaganza next summer. That’s the hope of Leon Hendrix, the younger brother of the late rock guitar genius Jimi Hendrix, and one of the event’s organizers, Gary “Sir Johan” Karlsen, The Jimi Hendrix Family Foundation CEO and president. The two were in Abbotsford on Aug. 9 during the city’s famous airshow to get sense of what was is possible here, and to receive a private airport-led tour of the grounds. “The facility I saw at the airport was awesome. It was open, with lots of room for big stages, for camping,” said Hendrix on Thursday. The plan is to have dozens of bands, ranging from international to local artists, perform on four or five day stages and smaller venues, each with its own musical genre such as guitar heroes, Canadians, country, blues, jazz, said Karlsen. The really big headliners would perform evening shows on a massive main stage and be broadcast to big screens at the other stages. Hendrix, a guitar player himself, would open the event, playing O Canada and The Star Spangled Banner in the style of his older brother.

– SUBMITTED/FOR THE TIMES

Gary Karlsen and Leon Hendrix were in Abbotsford Aug. 9 to check out the airport as a possible venue for a mega concert next year. The vision includes daytime diversions like celebrity hosts, amusement rides, stunt motorcycle riders, parachute jumpers and lots of vendors, while the evenings would close with fireworks. Guests could be bused in and camp on site, said Karlsen, who lives in West Vancouver. “It’s going to be like a carnival for three days. Our job will be to keep people entertained and fed for that time,” said Karlsen, adding they hope to hold the event every two years. The positive economic impact for Abbotsford could be as large as the scale of the event, he said. “We’re trying to do something that has never been done here, (but) as long as all the logistics are in place we will pull it off. It’ll be fantastic for the charities and Abbotsford.” Karlsen said the project is based on altruism and is not just as a commercial venture

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– a large charitable component will be built into the event, with about two dozen notable international and local non-profit organizations could benefit. Among these will be the Jimi Hendrix Family Foundation and the Hendrix Music Academy, which diverts at-risk teens into the world of music. They do everything from playing and composing music to learning the technical and business side of the trade, Hendrix said. “The kids love it so much, and they don’t get into trouble again,” said Hendrix, who aims to establish similar schools in Los Angeles and in Vancouver. Karlsen said he is approaching local groups such as the Abbotsford Hospice Society, the Abbotsford Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, Zajac Ranch for Children and the YWCA to engage their participation. Sir James Barlow of Abbotsford, sits on the Jimi

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Hendrix Family Foundation board and is acting as a bridge for the Myxxfest to the region. “We are working with these organizations with the view to provide them with funds. “(The local charities) are very interested in the project and are prepared to work with us,” Barlow said Friday. While “nothing is concrete, nothing is signed” at this point, he added they are also looking for ways to help the city fund a project, such as the YWCA, through the concert. “The potential exists for some significant benefits to Abbotsford,” said Barlow, a past president of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce. Mike Pastro, general manager of the Abbotsford International Airport, confirmed Friday he’s met with Karlsen, noting the proponents’ plans are still at the conceptual stage. “We said we’ve have a look. They approached us about a year ago and we had some extremely preliminary discussions. We asked them to put together a detailed business case,” he said. “It sounds like a fairly elaborate plan, but we haven’t seen a business plan from them yet.” Pastro said neither airport nor the city have made any commitments, and cautioned the plans still have to pass “a number of approvals at a lot of different levels.” “We’re an airport, first and foremost. With anything done out here, safety and security are paramount,” he said. Karlsen wants to get word out now and hopes to hear back from interested artists from around the world. Bands, vendors, sponsors or volunteers interested in participating can find contact details at www.myxxfest.com.

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THE TIMES TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 ❘

Former Abby Hindu priest sex offender denies guilt

NEWS

UP TO

❘ A7

Shame and embarrassment felt at being arrested, but maintains innocence

JENNIFER SALTMAN The Province

former Abbotsford Hindu priest convicted of sexual offences abuse the two complainants. involving teenage members of Crown prosecutor Sylvia Domaradzki his congregation continues to deny said Vir also told the report writer that responsibility for his crimes. he is not willing to undergo any treatKaram Vir, 33, was convicted in May ment for his sexual behaviour. of two counts of touching a young “Mr. Vir’s stance does affect any person for a sexual purpose and one chance of rehabilitation there may be,” count of sexual assault in connection Domaradzki said. with incidents that took Justice Neill Brown place in 2009 and 2010 said it is not unusual for while he was employed “Showing remorse is only an offender to maintain at Abbotsford’s Hindu one factor among all the his or her innocence, temple on Walmsley other factors that should but one hopes that after Avenue. sentencing an offender be considered in its A sentencing hearing will eventually change was held Wednesday in totality when you reach his or her mind and B.C. Supreme Court in your decision on how commit to rehabilitamuch time he should get tion. Chilliwack . V i r m a d e s e x u a l behind the bars.” “There isn’t a shred advances toward the two of doubt that Mr. Vir – Defence lawyer Brij Mohan is guilty beyond a reavictims, who were 17 years old, after befriendsonable doubt,” Brown ing them at the temple. said. One young woman said Vir kissed her Domaradzki pointed to two particuand there was brief sexual intercourse larly aggravating factors in the case: the and/or touching three times. The other abuse involved children and Vir abused victim testified that Vir talked about his position of trust. She said Vir was wanting to get sexually involved with her also uncooperative and lacks compasbut she resisted his sexual advances. sion and empathy. According to a presentence report, Vir Victim impact statements were not felt shame and embarrassment about submitted, but Domaradzki said the being charged, but “he does not accept victims’ vulnerability was obvious when responsibility for the offences . . . Mr. Vir they testified. denied committing the . . . offences.” “The impact of these crimes was At trial, Vir testified that he did not repeatedly shown through their evi-

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dence,” she said. Domaradzki asked for a total prison sentence of 3 1/2 to four years, minus time served. Vir has spent 104 days in custody since his conviction. Defence lawyer Brij Mohan countered with a suggested jail sentence of 18 months to two years less a day. “The sentence has to fit the crime,” Mohan said. Mohan agreed that while Vir laments his loss of status, respect and social standing, he continues to insist that he is innocent. “The bottom line is, showing remorse is only one factor among all the other factors that should be considered in its totality when you reach your decision on how much time he should get behind the bars,” Mohan said. He said a longer sentence will not be more of a deterrent to Vir than a shorter sentence, in part because of the losses he has suffered as a result of the allegations. Vir is also subject to an exclusion order and he will be removed from Canada as soon as he is released from custody. “Mr. Vir’s very public fall from grace, the shame he expresses, his loss of employment, his loss of a future in this and many other countries should be considered,” Mohan told Brown. The justice will impose Vir’s sentence at a later date.

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White Spot thanks you! A huge THANK YOU to everyone who came out to support White Spot’s 6th annual Pirate Pak Day on August 14th. You helped raise $65,916 for the Zajac Ranch for Children, a B.C. charity dedicated to giving children and young adults with life-threatening illnesses and chronic disabilities a chance to enjoy an extraordinary summer camp experience. See you next year!

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A8 ❘ OPINION ❘ TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 THE TIMES

Opinion

◗ Our view

WHO WE ARE

It’s a thankless job, until now

The Abbotsford/Mission Times is a division of LMP Publication Limited Partnership. We’re published Tuesdays and Thursdays from 30887 Peardonville Rd., Abbotsford, B.C.

◗ PUBLISHER

Nick Bastaja

NBastaja@abbotsfordtimes.com ◗ EDITOR

Terry Farrell

TFarrell@abbotsfordtimes.com

◗ Advertising Manager Shaulene Burkett ◗ Advertising Karin Swain Colin Lundrigan Robert Beischer

◗ Opinion

◗ Editorial Jean Konda-Witte Christina Toth Rochelle Baker

I gotta’ say, I love Abbotsford

◗ Production Marilyn Howard Neil Wilson ◗ Administration Louise Parsons Christine Axelsen ◗ Distribution Marylyn Jacobson Kathryn Hatchard Murray Simmons ◗ Contact

Switchboard .... 604-854-5244 Classified ......... 604-850-9600 Fax .................. 604-854-5541 Visit our website www.abbotsfordtimes.com E-mail us editorial@abbotsfordtimes.com Letters letters@abbotsfordtimes.com 30887 Peardonville Rd. Abbotsford, B.C. V2T 6K2 letters@abbotsfordtimes.com

READ MORE ON PAGE 3

t’s no secret that the city of Abbotsford has taken its share of public beat-downs in the past few years. From being dubbed “Canada’s Murder Capital”, to appearances on magazine lists of wasteful government spendings and bailouts, at first glance it seems that there is a lot more bad than good about The City in the Country. When word got out that I was leaving Alberta for Abbotsford, I was told to pack everything from nose plugs to Kevlar. Even when I first got here, I went for a drive one evening, only to come across a blocked off road as police investigated a drive-by shooting. I will admit, that got me wondering exactly what I’d signed up for, as the new editor of the Abbotsford/Mission Times. But, now that I have had a couple of months to assimilate, I have to say: I love Abbotsford. There is so much to do, so much to see, so much to appreciate about this city. It’s time we start to celebrate our community, and shed the inferiority complex. Take the time to look around you. How many cities can you name that have farms right in their midst? I love driving to work every day and seeing the

TERRY FARRELL

CommenTerry iconic Mount Baker; driving home to the sight of the Golden Ears upon the horizon. Everything is so accessible. Most cities will boast a wide selection AT their market. We have a wide selection OF fresh food markets. Weekly outdoor concerts like the Jam in Jubilee, outdoor movie nights, massive Show & Shines, the Abbotsford airshow, Agrifair and seemingly a different event every weekend has made this summer one of my most active in a long time. In talking with residents of this city, I sense a high level of pride, hidden beneath a shell of modesty. Screw modesty. It’s time to exhibit that pride. The City of Abbotsford is launching a brilliant campaign for residents to let their voices be heard in a positive light. The “I Heart Abbotsford” promotion is all about telling everyone out there how much you love your city. “Fall in love with Abbotsford!

Show us that home is where your heart is.” How do you do it? It’s easy. Submit a photo of you, your family, or even your family pet in an “I Heart Abbotsford” T-shirt, to www.abbotsford.ca/ iheartabby. You know the shirt. Mayor Bruce Banman has been wearing one everywhere. (I’m sure he has a box of them just for personal use.) The shirts are now available to the public for only $5 apiece, here at the Abbotsford Times office (30887 Peardonville Rd.), at the Tourist Visitor Centre on Delair Road, the Abbotsford Recreation Centre and the Matsqui Recreation Centre. Your photo submission could win you some fabulous prizes, including a $500 shopping spree at Highstreet, an iPad from the Times, tickets to an Abbotsford Heat game in a private box, or lunch for four with Mayor Banman. Your photo could also appear on our special “I Heart Abbotsford” page in The Times. So, what are you waiting for? Get out and show off your civic pride. We live in the best city in Canada. It’s time to let everyone else know that. ■ Terry Farrell is the editor of the Abbotsford/Mission Times.

t’s the silly season in news, so it’s no surprise that everyone on the planet heard about the Great Fatberg of London about five minutes after it was discovered. The fatberg, so named by Thames Water, is the largest single lump of congealed lard ever found in the London sewer system. It was so big, it was preventing nearby residents from flushing their toilets. Things could have turned much worse than a few backed up toilets, however. “If we hadn’t discovered it in time, raw sewage could have started spurting out of manholes across the whole of Kingston,” said Gordon Hailwood, a waste contracts supervisor for Thames Water. The sizeable pipe is now being repaired, and this will no doubt cause some inconvenience and grumbling. No one likes navigating around ripped up roads, and it’s not exactly cheap to replace major pieces of public infrastructure like this. That said, we should take this as an opportunity to give thanks to those who keep our sewer and water pipes blessedly far from our minds most of the time. It is a miracle of modern life in the affluent west that we flush toilets and turn on taps, and expect everything to flow. We flip light switches and expect light, we go into buildings and don’t worry that they might collapse and crush us. Of course, there are exceptions, but when a bridge or shopping mall collapses, or when water is poisoned by bacteria, or when fatbergs form in the sewers, these things make the news because they are exceptions. Building cities and making them run is a pretty thankless task most of the time. So let us now thank the labourers and contractors and engineers who do that work. We promise we will stop pouring grease down the drain, and cutting holes in loadbearing walls, and ignoring the fire safety codes. At least for now. ■ To comment on this editorial, email us at letters@abbotsfordtimes.com.

◗ Your view Last week’s question: Due to President Vladimir Putin’s anti-gay stance, should the Sochi Olympics in Russia be boycotted? a.] Yes, attitudes like his should not be tolerated in this day and age.

37% b.] No. We will be guests in his country; we should abide by his laws.

49% c.] Move them to Vancouver

14%

This week’s question: Do you agree with provincial laws banning ownership of certain exotic animals like pythons? a.] Yes. They’re dangerous and should stay in the wild. b.] No. The laws don’t prevent people from owning them. c.] People who can prove they’d be good owners should be able to possess them.

VOTE NOW: www.abbotsfordtimes.com

LETTERS

THE TIMES TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 ❘

It’s called a cycle for a reason

Dan Ambrosi Surrey

Bravo for food bank stories Editor, the Times:

Re: “Abbotsford food bank feeds hearts and souls” Times, Aug. 8 Kudos to the Times for highlighting the Abbotsford Food Bank and the Mission Food Centre (Running on empty series).

MEATS

TO INCLUDE YOUR LETTER, use our online form at www.abbotsfordtimes.com or contact us by e-mail at letters@abbotsfordtimes.com. Letters must include first/ last names, hometown and be fewer than 200 words.

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I dream of a housing solution Editor, the Times:

The following is a madeup newspaper article; but what if it was true? A spokesman for a group of Abbotsford business owners said today that they are fully supportive of the Abbotsford Community Services (ACS) proposed affordable housing units. “We see these men on our streets every day, some of them sleep in our doorways and alleys so we will do everything we can to help them get into safe housing with good programs and a chance to get back on their feet,” the spokesman said. He went on to say that several business owners had already offered to help with job training, mentoring and even work internships. “Safe housing is the first step, followed by good support and good employment opportunities; we see ourselves as able to really help in these areas.” When asked about the zoning conflict he said that “No combination of funding, programs, support and location is ever perfect but we feel that the current proposal is an excellent one. We do have a minor zoning issue (the proposed

building sits right on the border of acceptable zoning, but on the wrong side of the line) but given the potential upside to Abbotsford as a whole, we see rezoning as a solvable issue. He emphasized that “a key to the success of this initiative is the involvement of ACS. The organization has a long history of helping people in Abbotsford deal with challenges, get back on their feet, rejoin their families and the community as healthy, contributing members.” A made-up scenario I know; but could it be?

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We’re getting ripped off here Editor, the Times:

To add to your list of countries with cheaper cell phone rates (Times editorial Aug 15), we were travelling in Fiji and Vanuatu last winter. There we saw villagers on remote islands using cell phones, and there were towers on mountain tops in the middle of nowhere. In Vanuatu a basic phone cost $6 and you could add time (no plan required) by buying more at any little outpost store we saw. I think it was an Australian company, and they had no competition. Compared to the local’s income it was still expensive and expats complained about how cell phones were promoted to those with lower incomes. But the point is that the company was apparently finding it profitable. Since seeing that, I’ve concluded we are getting ripped off in Canada. Ken Summers Abbotsford

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And kudos too, to Kal Sidhu for sharing his personal and extremely inspirational story that shows us the farreaching impact of these community services. Thank you to all of the Times staff for seeing the crucial importance of keeping us all aware of the needs of the food bank and the people that are served there. A community paper serving our community. Wonderful journalism.

Mt. Lehman

Re: Sockeye numbers floundering (Aug. 15, the Times), consider these facts. Sockeye reproduction is based on a four year life cycle. That means the sockeye returning this year are a result of the return of the 2009 spawn. That was the year that the sockeye run was so diminished that the federal government launched a (initially) $14 million inquiry (Cohen Commission) into the missing fish. (Link: http://bit.ly/XKNPWr). Is it not logical to expect a low sockeye return in the Fraser River this year (2013) in light of all the facts? Also remember, over 25,000,000 sockeye returned to spawn in 2010. (Link: http://bit. ly/14HsEVn) What do you think would be a logical expectation for the 2014 run based on the 2010 cycle? The facts are 2009 was a record low in 50 years and 2010 was a record high in 100 years concerning Fraser River sockeye runs. In short, a miraculously high sockeye return this year would truly be a worthy story, not one on low numbers, which is what an informed person would expect based on previous sockeye run history. What would be truly miraculous is if DFO could get better at understanding Pacific salmon, and have more consistent and better estimates. This is not unexpected though, considering those in the east part of this country have rarely understood what happens on this side of the mountains.

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❘ A9

A10 ❘ HEALTH ❘ TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 THE TIMES

HealthWise Labelling snacks can protect your children and others G

etting ready for back-to-school is a hectic and busy time, and an even more stressful experience if your child suffers from an allergy or requires medication. According to a new Léger Marketing national survey, 57 per cent of Canadian moms agree that labelling their child’s snacks and/or medication is one of the best defences when it comes to keeping their kids safe at school. “With allergies becoming more prevalent in children, it is essential that we take the preventative steps to establish a safe learning environment,” says Hellen Buttigieg, a certified professional organizer. “Labelling your child’s lunch, snacks, and nonprescription medication not only gives parents and teachers peace of mind, but

also considers the child’s classmates’ safety as well.” Safeguarding your child’s health starts at home. Be sure to take the time to properly label food and nonprescription medication with your child’s name and specific instructions or allergy warnings to prevent dangerous reactions. Speak to your child about their allergies and ensure they are aware of what foods they should be avoiding. Also, make sure your child does not share his or her food with classmates. Your children may not suffer from allergies, but their friends very well could, and a well-intended swap of a peanut butter sandwich for an apple could have devastating consequences.

Hey man, get to a doctor

dult males are notorious for avoiding visits to their doctor. But when it comes to their sex life and overall well-being a visit to the doctor could be worth consideration. If you or your partner recognize these five signs and symptoms, then it may be time to visit the doctor: • No longer feeling like his usual self • Loss of energy • Decreased sexual desire • Mood depression • Decreased motivation These are all symptoms of a medical con-

dition known as testosterone deficiency (low-T). Men don’t have to sacrifice their happiness, and stifle the sizzle between the sheets, all for the sake of avoiding their doctor. Treatment options are available. In fact, a new prescription treatment option that is applied to the armpit, similarly to deodorant, is now available to help improve symptoms of low-T in men. If your male partner is no longer behaving like his normal self, encourage him to talk to his doctor about low-T. His armpit may be the gateway to a happier man.

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HealthWise Protect your child’s eyes

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days of summer, autumn is not the time to put the sunglasses away. “Children need the protection of good quality sunglasses just as much as adults do and sometimes even more,” says Minbashion. “So many of their activities are outdoors and in direct sunlight.” And the good news is: it isn’t too difficult to persuade kids to wear sunglasses, especially if they are modeled after those worn by adult role models or an older sibling.

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• Schedule a comprehensive eye exam as your child enters kindergarten, including near-point (computer and reading) and distance testing. • Schedule an eye exam before school begins every year. • The recommended distance for children between the monitor and the eye is 18-28 inches. Any closer risks eye strain. • Be aware of behaviour that indicates problems such as eye redness, frequent rubbing of the eyes, unusual posture, or complaints of blurriness or eye fatigue.

❘ A11

keeping you

id you know that the average North American child spends from one to three hours per day with his or her eyes on a computer screen? The startling increase of nearsightedness (myopia) in children worldwide may be a direct consequence of this activity, pediatric eye doctors say. “In fact, children using computers before their visual systems are fully developed are at the very heart of the public health problem called computer vision syndrome,” says Bijan Minbashion, vice president of operations for Hakim Optical. “A study at the University of California reports that 25 to 30 per cent of computerusing children need corrective eyewear to work with the equipment comfortably and safely – and similar studies in Asia report that first-graders with myopia has increased from 12.1 per cent to 20.4 per cent since 1995. In the last three years, myopia is reported to have doubled to 34 per cent in seven- to nineyear olds.” To guard against early damage to your child’s eyes, consider these tips.

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A12 ❘ ENTERTAINMENT ❘ TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 THE TIMES

ROCKIN’

RIVER FEST Photography by Jean Konda-Witte

JKonda-Witte@abbotsfordtimes.com

Superstar Brad Paisley signed autographs for fans, took pictures of them, and even gave one of his guitars to a young girl in the audience. Carrie Underwood joined him for a duet on the big screen.

Above, Big & Rich brought their gaudy Party Like Cowboyz tour to the Mission Raceway Saturday night. Upper left, you’re never too young to be a country and western fan; middle, Emerson Drive was emotional in one of their songs Saturday; lower, Brad Paisley spent a lot of time on the catwalk to be close to his fans as the cell phones popped. For more photos of the three-day event and other performers, see www.abbotsfordtimes.com.

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THE TIMES TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 ❘

❘ A13

– JEAN KONDA-WITTETIMES

Big & Rich, a.k.a. Kenny Alphin and John Rich, made use of the massive 120 foot stage which was 57 feet high. All performers also took advantage of the catwalk to get close to their fans. The party went long into the night at Mission Raceway Park.

SCAN FOR PHOTOS – JEAN KONDA-WITTE/TIMES

The beer garden was a popular place for dancing with plenty of good music from local bands all weekend.

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A14 TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 THE TIMES

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Sports

SPORTS

❘ A15

Phone: 604-854-5244 • E-mail: sports@abbotsfordtimes.com • Fax: 604-854-5541

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Figure skaters from the Abbotsford Skating Club put on a strong showing at the 2013 BC/YK Section Summerskate Competition in Burnaby Aug. 15-18. Local results are: Ceilidh Ross – Gold Ladies – 3rd Tyler Miller – Junior Dance – 5th Sarah Steberl – Juvenile U14 Group 1 – 8th Megan Geddes – Pre-Novice Ladies U16 – 11th Natsumi Blattler – Senior Bronze – 14th Taralyn Geddes – Senior Bronze – 10th Anika Phinney – Star 2 Girls Group 3 – Bronze Alexandra Latreille – Star 3B Girls Group 4 – 5th Registration date for ASC Fall/Winter 2013-14 is Sept. 12 at the Matsqui Recreation Centre from 3 – 5 p.m.

– JEAN KONDA-WITTE, TIMES FILE

Triathlon athletes will bike 20 kilometres through rolling farmland in Abbotsford on Sunday, like these cyclists who competed in last year’s Grand Fondo. JEAN KONDA-WITTE JKonda-Witte@abbotsfordtimes.com

he inaugural Abbotsford Triathlon to set to kick off on Sunday at Albert Dyck Park, with money raised going to a Habitat for Humanity project right here in town. “We were trying to find a fundraiser that wasn’t just a walk,” said organizer Doug Rempel. So they incorporated the swim and cycling aspects to turn the event into a sprint triathlon. With 750 metres of swimming, 20 kilometres of cycling and a 5km run, the sprint is a toned down version of more well-known triathlons

The course is very simple and flat . . . a great introduction to the sport (the Olympic – 1.5k swim, 40k bike and 10k run and the Ironman – 3.8k swim, 180.2k bike and 42.2k run). For their first event they were hoping to attract 35 competitors, but as of Friday they had 110 registered and paid participants. “We definitely beat our goal,” said Rempel. “We’ve had huge support. It’s been phenomenal how the community has come together.” They have already raised more than $9,000 for the Habitat for

Humanity house, which will be built on Farmer Road for a single mom with two children. Completion date is set for mid-November. It will be a fun triathlon said Rempel. “The course is very simple and flat. It’s great for people to be introduced to the sport or as a training day for triathletes.” Registered athletes are coming from as far as Calgary and Oregon and range in age from 16 to 65. Next year they’re hoping to add a

kids’ triathlon and make the triathon an annual event. There are still a few spaces left and the cost to register is $75. There will be no registration on the day of the race. The swim will start in Albert Dyck Lake at 9 a.m. followed by on a fairly flat, scenic cycle beside the Abbotsford airport and around berry fields. The final phase will be on flat outlying roads bordering agricultural, residential and industrial areas. All participants will receive a commerative T-shirt. For details on the course routes or to register, visit www.abbotsfordtriathlon.com.

Grapplers compete at Pan Am Games JEAN KONDA-WITTE JKonda-Witte@abbotsfordtimes.com

wo Abbotsford wrestlers decided to pass on the Canada Summer Games and take on a bigger challenge – the Pan Am Wrestling Championship Aug. 11 in Colombia. And their coach was pretty pleased with the result. Justin Gill, who wrestles for Rick Hansen Secondary and Miri Piri Wrestling Club in the 69kg class, took the silver medal, losing only to Mason Manville from the U.S. in the final. “His performance was good,” said head coach Sucha Mann. “The whole U.S. team was phenomenal. They had 10 guys in the finals and only two lost.” Gill won his first match against Brazil, 8-0, then beat a Bolovian wrestler 8-0. “He was confident going into the final. He gave his best, he met my expectations,” said Mann.

One of Mann’s youngest protégés, Navdeep Toor, 14, just graduated from Reimer Middle School and will be in Grade 9 at Hansen in the fall. He also wrestlers for Miri Piri. He recently won the Team BC trials for the Canada Summer Games, but decided to go to the Pan Am Championships instead. Toor lost his first match to Venezuela 6-7 and did not advance. “He tried his best. He’s very young at this point. He has a bright future,” added Mann. The coach said both his wrestlers made the right call in going to Colombia. “They wanted to go for international experience. They were both contenders; they wanted better, tougher experience.” Two other wrestlers, Jasmit Phulka (84kg) and Sunny Dhinsa (120kg who wrestles for SFU) are in Bulgaria for the Junior World Wrestling Championships this week. This is the last year both will wrestle at the junior level.

– SUBMITTED/FOR THE TIMES

Abbotsford wrestler and silver medalist Justin Gill, left, and Navdeep Toor, right, pose with coach Sucha Mann at the recent Pan Am Games in Colombia.

Softball tryouts

Chilliwack Mayhem (U-14) Pee Wee A Girl’s softball team is holding tryouts on Sept. 14-15 and they’re looking for girls born in 2001 who want to compete at the highest level on a fun, competitive team. This is the only rep ‘A’ team east of Surrey and girls from Abbotsford and Mission are welcome to try out. Contact Steve Henrotte at 604-798-3146 for more information and location.

Borders compete

LoveBomb will be hosting a skate competition, sponsored by Play4Life on Saturday, Aug. 24 at the Yale skatepark. Registration begins at 11 a.m. and there will be a free barbecue at 2 p.m. The event is at McMillan Youth Park, 2499 McMillan Rd., Abbotsford, All proceeds go to Abby Skatelife (Abbotsford’s local skate club) and Ratanak.org (overseas non-profit organization fighting human trafficking). Play4Life is committed to creating safe, fun events for teenagers with the purpose of empowering them to make a difference in their community and their world. Each Play4Life event is organized to promote health and family, and raise awareness of their community and world issues. For more information go to play4life.ca. – STAFF REPORTER

A16 ❘ COMMUNITY ❘ TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013 THE TIMES People in pain

Aug. 20 and the third Tuesday of the month, the People in Pain Network meets from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Seventh Day Adventist Church, 26245 28th Ave., Aldergrove, where those with chronic pain can connect, get support and access resources. Contact Dick at 604-928-0486 or see pipain.com.

Horseshoe club

Wednesdays between 6 p.m. and dusk, the Abbotsford Horseshoe Club invites newcomers to learn to pitch horseshoes, next to Trethewey House, 2313 Ware St., Abbotsford. Lessons are free – great activity for summer evenings. Call Darryl at 604-864-0622.

Tony Prophet plays

Aug. 22 at 2 – 2:45 p.m. children’s performer Tony Prophet will bring his bag of kid-sized costumes and energized songs like Splish Splash and The Cat Came Back at the Mission Library, 33247 Second Ave. The event is free. Call 604-826-6610.

Seniors co-housing

Aug. 22, at 7 p.m., learn about seniors co-housing for people 55-plus at Elderberry Commons at the Yarrow Ecovillage, at Parallel Marketplace Wired Monk, 1910 N. Parallel Rd., Abbotsford. See yarrowecovillage.ca, call 778898-9951 or email welcome@ elderberrycohousing.ca.

Wind ensemble rehearsals

Aug. 22, Cascadia Wind Ensemble begins rehearsals at Vedder Middle School at 7:30 p.m. New members welcome. Band will play Sept. 22 at Minter Gardens. Call Jack at 604-795-4301 for details.

Dog wash for a cause

Aug. 24, the Best Western Plus Regency Inn & Conference Centre at 32110 Marshall Rd., Abbotsford is hosting the Best Doggie Wash from 1 – 4 p.m. in support of the Gladwin Off Leash Park. Donation of $5 per doggie wash. Light refreshments for purchase with net proceeds supporting the cause. Nail trimming by extra donation. Bosley’s and K9H20 Pool for Dogs will also be on hand with coupons and doggie treat bags. Call Elizabeth Foster at 604-853-3111 for details.

Cruise for hospice

Aug. 24, motorcyclists hit the road to raise funds for Mission Hospice, register 8 a.m., ride 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Mission, finish at Dewdney Pub, 8793 River Rd. south, for 1 p.m. Elks BBQ, prizes, scooter raffle, live music. Call 604-826-2235, stop at 32180 Hillcrest Ave., Mission for forms or see missionhospice.bc.ca.

Clothes2U giveaway

Aug. 24 from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p. m. Clothes2U will disperse clothes, toys, linens, diapers,

Community events To list an event hosted or sponsored by a non-profit group in Abbotsford or Mission, upload it directly to our website: abbotsfordtimes.com, or send an e-mail with a succinct, 75-word description of the event including day, date, time and address to events@abbotsfordtimes.com, or drop off at 30887 Peardonville Rd, Abbotsford. personal and household items free to those in need, male/female, baby to senior, at Abbotsford Evangelical Church, 33218 Marshall Rd., Abbotsford. To volunteer or donate, email ernie@clothes2u.ca or call 604-857-4617.

SPCA book, bake sale

Aug. 25 from noon to 4 p.m., Abbotsford SPCA holds a book and bake sale at Bakerview Pet Hospital, 1305 Sumas Way, Abbotsford. To donate or for more details call Jodi at 604-850-1584.

University women

The Canadian Federation of University Women Abbotsford meet Mondays at 7 p.m. at the University of the Fraser Valley, with guest speaker, socializing. Contact jackandlois@shaw.ca.

MCC Quilt show at library

Aug. 26 – 31, Mennonite Central Committee Quilt Show, Clearbrook Library, 32320 George Ferguson Way, Abbotsford with demonstrations during library hours. Quilts to be auctioned at MCC Festival for World Relief, Sept. 6 and 7. See bc.mcc.org.

Business women

Aug. 28, from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Business and Professional Women’s Club of Mission (BPW) meets for lunch. Guest speaker is Remco Bergman with Emergency Social Services, at Mission Station Grill on Horne St., Mission. Pre-registration by Aug. 26 midnight to bpw. mission@gmail.com, or on facebook.com/BPWMission.

Hominum meets

Aug. 30, at 7:30 p.m. Hominum Fraser Valley meets for an informal support group to help gay, bi-sexual and questioning men with the challenges of being married, separated or single. For details, location call Art 604-462-9813 or Don 604329-9760.

Shari Ulrich and herons

Sept. 6, legendary Canadian singer Shari Ulrich will perform a fundraising dinner and dance for the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve Society. Get tickets, more details at Chilliwackblueheron.com.

Fall fair in Mission

Sept. 7, McConnell Creek Fall Fair, 35483 Hartley Rd., Mission starts at 10 a.m. Games and crafts for the kids, scarecrow making competition

for all ages. Come for lunch and stay for the auction of homegrown foods, canned and baked goods. Awarding of prize ribbons starts at 12:30 p.m. Submit fair entries Sept. 5, 7 – 9 p.m. and Sept. 6, 9 a.m. – 12 noon. See www.mcconnellcreek.com for more details.

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