Abbotsford Times October 15 2013 by Abbotsford Times

INSIDE: Vital signs report suggests much work to be done

Pg. 3

T U E S D A Y

October 15, 2013

12  N E W S ,

SPORTS,

WEATHER

Judo championships coming to town

E N T E R T A I N M E N T  abbotsfordtimes.com

New rules worry weed grower

CONCERT – QUEEN MCENTIRE

PAUL J HENDERSON AND CHRISTINA TOTH Abbotsford Times prominent medical marijuana activist is opposing the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) plan to restrict medical marijuana growing to industrial zones. Sam Mellace has held a legal licence to grow marijuana for himself and others for 10 years, something he does at his rural Hatzic property, which falls into the FRVD electoral area F. If the regional government forces medical growers into industrial land, there won’t be fewer problems with public safety and illegal activity, there will be more, said Mellace. What’s more, the federal government is unlikely, as with the past model, to provide adequate resources to inspect any of the operations, he said. As of April 1, the federal government will no longer permit individuals to legally grow marijuana plants for personal medical use, or permit designated growers to cultivate it for them, as Mellace did in the past. The new Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations will require medical consumers to order their pot from licensed commercial growers and have it shipped to them via the mail.

– JEAN KONDA-WITTE/TIMES

The queen of country music, Reba McEntire, wowed nearly 4,000 appreciative fans at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre on Thursday night. To see more photos, download the Layar app to your smartphone and scan the logo on the left.

see POT, page A6

ACS info meeting draws spirited debate

ROCHELLE BAKER RBaker@abbotsfordtimes.com

ore than 100 people attended a public meeting where both supporters and critics spoke regarding a low barrier residence for homeless men being proposed by Abbotsford Community Services in the downtown core. Proponents urged Abbotsford

council take steps to solve the persistent homeless problem in the city and take advantage of the $2.4 million and additional operating costs being offered by the province through B.C. Housing for the facility. However, critics expressed concerns the project would increase crime and decrease public safety

Concerns expressed on both sides of proposed housing project

in the area. They urged council to maintain its zoning promise to businesses in the historic core to prohibit rehabilitation or addiction services and facilities in the area. The 20-unit facility “housing first”

initiative, located adjacent to ACS at 2408 Montvue Ave., won’t require residents to stop using drugs or alcohol before obtaining a stable home. The men would be able to access services and programs on

GET YOUR

It’s time, go play in the dirt.

site or at the neighbouring ACS to address their issues and transition to permanent housing within a twoyear period. B.C. Housing is contributing the $2.4 million capital investment and $200,000 a year for operating costs while ACS is offering up the land. see HOUSING, page A4

Style ON AND SAVE

50-70

*Some restrictions apply.

westerraequipment.com | 800.563.7313

down to earth

OFF

FREE SIGHT TESTING ages 19-64

EAGLE VISION OPTICAL 107-2760 Gladwin Rd ❘ 604.557.1800

A2 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 THE TIMES

It’s FALL Cleanup Time!

FREE PICKUP SERVICE! • We buy old excavators, bulldozers, farm equipment & vehicles (running or not) • Full service scrap yard • Bring in your scrap & receive cash • We buy all types of metal • We buy appliances, batteries, vehicles, parts & engines

Donate your scrap.

All proceeds go to your local food bank.

604-814-4186

toll free

1-855-246-2467

7136 Durieu St Mission • www.everclearrecycling.com Monday - Friday 8am - 5 pm • Saturday 9am-2pm • Sunday closed

Upfront Reba McEntire performed at the Abbotsford EntertainmentandSports Complex on Thursday. See more photos.

Page 3-

The annual Salvation Army Thanksgiving lunch was held Friday at the Centre of Hope. See more photos. ••• 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

WEB EXTRA

The Times online

abbotsfordtimes.com

undreds of Abbotsford residents who otherwise might not be getting a hot, communal holiday meal enjoyed Thanksgiving lunch at the Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope on Friday. Deb Lowell, the local Sally Ann’s public relations director, said more than 200 guests enjoyed a homemade turkey dinner with all the fixings including pumpkin pie with whipped cream. In addition to the regular dozen kitchen corps volunteers, another 15 volunteers including the chiefs from the police and fire departments and local politicians turned out to serve the sit down lunch. This year the turkeys for the event were donated by Rossdown Farms, said Lowell. Planning for the Thanksgiving lunch begins in September, and the actual meal prep can take up to week. But the annual event is well worth the effort, said Lowell. “We want people to feel they are part of the community and they are part of our family if they don’t have somewhere to go for Thanksgiving,” she said. “We have all been giving thanks for our blessing all week.”

Fo l l ow t h e e n t i re A b b o t s f o rd / M i s s i o n Times editorial staff on Twitter: @terryAfarrell @rochellebaker1 @ChrisToth7 @JeanKonda

– ROCHELLE BAKER/TIMES

(Left to right) Karen Anderson, Karen Park and Parmjit Sekhon and scores of volunteers served up a holiday meal complete with all the fixings at the Salvation Army’s annual Thanksgiving lunch at the Centre of Hope on Friday. To see more photos, download the Layar app to your smartphone and scan the logo on the left.

-ROCHELLE BAKER

Abbotsford gets average grade in vital signs report Recently released community survey shows low-income families face the most challenges in Abbotsford CHRISTINA TOTH CToth@abbotsfordtimes.com

hile the Abbotsford Vital Signs Report found the city is average when compared to the rest of the country in most of the seven key indicators it reviewed, it notes that 20 per cent of children 17 years and younger live in poverty. Of the 3,000 people a month who receive food from the Abbotsford Food Bank, 40 per cent are children, significantly higher than the provincial average of 29.5 per cent.

However, the report also noted a high rate of high school graduation, volunteerism and philanthropy. In order to address local issues, Abbotsford Community Foundation took a Vital Signs community ‘snapshot,’ as part of the Community Foundations of Canada program. For its first report, ACF focused on seven issues: the gap between rich and poor; housing; wealth and wellness; getting started; learning; belonging and leadership; plus food security. The ‘grades’ ranged from C- in pov-

604-855-8188 Toll Free 1-888-855-8188

RON KANDT

OWNER OPERATOR

❘ A3

Page 1-

NEWS

Sally Ann shares the bounty

What’s Layared in today’s paper

THE TIMES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 ❘

604-855-8188 Toll Free 1-888-855-8188

erty rates to B for a sense of belong- nity Foundation. ing. “And hopefully it will used by peoLed by University of the Fraser Val- ple to advocate for local, provincial ley sociologist Kathand federal governer ine Watson, the ments,” she said. survey took responses “The data on the working The findings on from 330 residents, poor was not a surprise, poverty “means there data from the fedsomething we can but certainly the number is eral census on the be addressing as a community, things Abbotsford-Mission of children using the that cause you to ask Census Metropoli- food bank [1,200] was a more questions.” tan Area and other surprise. We need to do “The data on the s t u d i e s. T h e c o s t , working poor was estimated at $15,000, better there.” not a surprise, but was paid for by funds – Susan McAlevy, ACF exec. director certainly the numraised by the ACF. ber of children using The data can help the food bank was a the foundation and their donors direct their funds to surprise. We need to do better there,” concerns highlighted by the report, she added. said Susan McAlevy, ACF executive see REPORT, page A6 director of the Abbotsford Commu-

WWW.APPLECARPETCLEANING.CA

FREE DEODORIZING SPOTTING PRODUCTS DRIES IN 1 TO 3 HOURS AIR MOVERS FRESH WATER RINSE OWNER OPERATOR 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE TRUCK MOUNTED EQUIPMENT DOOR COVER EDGING TOOLS

$25 OFF CALL FOR DETAILS

WWW.APPLECARPETCLEANING.CA

A4 ❘ NEWS ❘ TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 THE TIMES

Downtown businesses concerned with consequences HOUSING, from page A1 Rod Santiago, ACS executive director, said that the project is not just about dealing with homelessness and the community services does take the businesses’ and residents’ concerns seriously. “We want to create a safe place for business, residents and residents of the facility,” said Santiago. Similar low barrier residence projects in Vancouver have not created problems for the community immediately surrounding the facility, he said. Other communities had in fact seen less panhandling, less vandalism and inappropriate activity. The site will be monitored 24/7 with a staff member living on site and that individual won’t simply be a caretaker but someone with the skills and expertise to work with the residents. “It’s not going to be this wild crazy place,” said Santiago. “It’s so men can finally sleep at night and so men can finally start working on the stuff that’s been holding them back for so long.” Santiago said ACS and B.C. Housing were not adamantly opposed to the notion of an alternative location but no other tangible sites had been identified. The benefits of the current site are

that it is owned by Abbotsford Com- sibility to tackle homelessness on munity Services and is adjacent to its own, but that the provincial and its headquarters, where residents federal governments, churches and can access a range of integrated community as well as the homeless services, including addictions and also had to get on board. employment counselling or mental In response, other speakers noted health supports. that the province, via B.C. Housing, Abbotsford resident Jim Burkin- was offering up the necessary funds shaw said he remembered when the and expertise to address homelessdowntown core was run down and ness and urged council to back the derelict, but he believed the ACS plan. project would improve things. Dorothy Henneveld, executive Burkinshaw said he phoned busi- director of the Women’s Resource nesses surrounding Society of the a low barrier resiFraser Valley, said dence in New West- “It’s not going to be this the city had colminster and was wild crazy place. It’s so laborated in othtold the facility did men can finally sleep at er projects such not have a negative night and so men can final- as the Christine impact. ly start working on the stuff Lamb residence In fact, the resifor women and dents worked along that’s been holding them the George with the area’s busi- back for so long.” S c h m i d t re s i ness improvement dence and could – Rod Santiago, ACS exec. director association to clean do so again. up litter and keep “We’re at the the streets clean, junction where said Burkinshaw. it’s not enough to finger point at Mayor Bruce Banman responded others but ask, ‘What will we do?’” to a question about how the city However, other speakers quescould be proactive in dealing with tioned how ACS and B.C. Housing homelessness in Abbotsford. would insulate area businesses and The issue was best-tackled “one residents from problems with the bed at a time,” said Banman. residence. But he noted it was a “complex Restaurant owner Mitch Miller problem” and that the city didn’t said he remembered when prostihave the expertise or the respon- tution and crime were problematic

in the downtown core. In the past, The council agreed to the C7 zonan employee had been threatened ing restricting social services in the with a knife and because of that, historic core to battle urban decay waitresses must be walked to their and encourage business owners to cars at night for their safety. Miller invest in the area, he said. There was a 75 per cent vacancy expressed concern the residence would further negatively impact rate in the historic core before the ADBA had worked to get small busicrime and safety. Kathy Doerksen, of ACS, said that nesses to risk setting up in the area, said MacLeod. as the area would He questioned also be the resihow council could dents’ community, “We shouldn’t be asking go back on its word they would likely if we should or should to ADBA and the respect it. not do this, but asking, ma and pa busi“We expect good nesses that had b e h a v i o u r f r o m ‘What do we need to do moved to the area residents,” she said. to make this happen?’” because of pres“And if people feel this is their home – Darryl Plecas Abbotsford South MLA sure from a special interest group. and community Abbotsford South hopefully they won’t MLA Darryl Plecas stated a shift in trash it.” Police would be called in if a resi- perspective was in order. “We shouldn’t be asking if we dent was engaged in criminal activshould or should not do this,” he ity, she said. To deal with any other issue, ACS said, “but asking, ‘What do we need will establish a good neighbour to do to make this happen?’” Plecas also stated a panel discuscommittee, which could include businesses and the Abbotsford sion at the University of the FraDowntown Business Association, ser Valley had been organized and and work to address emerging prob- titled, Everybody wins: Positive and Affordable Solutions to Abbotsford’s lems. ADBA president Paul MacLeod Homeless Challenge. The forum is set to take place in stressed the business group was committed to trying to solve home- the UFV Abbotsford auditorium/ lessness but struggled with the proj- theatre B101 on Nov. 15 from 7 – 9 p.m. ect’s location.

Caribbean Super Deal!

10 nights South Caribbean Package aboard Independence of the Seas!

1799

CDN per person 2 sharing Total Charges Price!

2249 Superior Balcony upgrade!

Departs Dec. 5, returns Dec. 15

December offers perfect weather – Low humidity - Warm temperatures!

2 nights hotel + 8 nights cruise - super price!

✔ Dec 5

Fly from Vancouver to Fort Lauderdale Enjoy 2 nights at Hyatt Place Hotel ✔ Dec 6 Free day to enjoy Fort Lauderdale - enjoy famous shopping malls, beaches free shuttle! ✔ Dec 7 Transfer to Independence of the Seas - enjoy full day stops in St. Maarten, St. Kitts, Puerto Rico, Labadee return to Fort Lauderdale Dec. 15, ﬂy home!

Book this package before Saturday, Oct 19, 2pm!

Flight, transfers, taxes & fees included - a total-charges price! BOOK NOW!

1-800-608-7245

HAYWARD LAKE RESERVOIR BEACH CLOSURE EXTENDED SEPTEMBER TO NOVEMBER 2013

Receive our cruise deals directly to your inbox:

20-year member of the BBB — A+ rating!

www.cruiseencounters .com

Access to the beaches on the Hayward Lake Reservoir will be closed this fall. The beaches have a very steep drop-off and cannot be used safely when the water is low. The drawdown extension is required for construction related to the Ruskin Dam and Powerhouse Upgrade Project. The Hayward Lake boat launch will also be out of service during the drawdown. The picnic grounds and the parking lot at the Hayward Lake Reservoir Recreation Area remain open. Other closures may be required for construction use or for safety requirements. For current closures, please check www.bchydro.com/ closures. For more information about the Ruskin Dam and Powerhouse Upgrade Project, please visit www.bchydro.com/ruskin, call 1 866 647 3334 or email stakeholderengagement@bchydro.com. 4016

8850 Walnut Grove Dr., Langley (North of Hwy 1 at 210 Street)

THE TIMES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

P4B0 :U R0140E \MZ WYU \[[YVV UL \NN LX LT] YR[NTVOSY ZY\NVP

K7 NC

9JD

:<C#%%#>@ 6>5 )G> 18>;F8 $> $08 AD@?>"!85 )8D -8%$#!DF& )DE '@?F"<8< 8L0I/<;ET

9J2

9C2

:@$#/+@>58 758D$08/.D%B 9>"$0;#8?8 R0140E Q : R

O F7

9JD

9H5M2C

L0G <U

+CDFF 3, =D528 '?8 458DC 4DH8& (* -FD!>"5% $> 40>>%8 -5>C JH ?= S/IL>4/0@

BUY ONLINE

.com

SCAN TO BUY WITH LAYAR

A6 ❘ NEWS ❘ TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 THE TIMES

New rules will raise prices POT, from page A1 Mellace is applying to be one of the large growers approved by Health Canada under the new system. He agrees that growing should be taken out of residential neighbourhoods and he’s lobbied for the RCMP to know the locations of medical grow operations. He lets authorities visit his site, which is secured with fences, guard dogs, ground sensors and other high-tech security. On Monday, the District of Mission voted in favour of zoning amendments that effectively ban medical marijuana commercial operations from setting up in the community. However, council will examine requests for facilities on a case-by-case basis. Such facilities would have to meet specific site criteria in industrial or agricultural areas only. The significant setbacks required by the district would be difficult to meet, said Mayor Ted Adlem, “unless the operators had really deep pockets, with millions of dollars. Along with the federal regulations, it won’t come cheap.” Mike Younie, Mission’s director of development services, also said the applicant for a potential marijuana

Poverty rate among families and seniors higher than national average REPORT, from page A3

– SUBMITTED PHOTO/TIMES

Marijuana activist and businessman Sam Mellace is worried the Fraser Valley Regional District will restrict commercial marijuana growers to industrial areas once federal changes banning individual medical grow licences come into effect in the spring. operation would have to demonstrate a community benefit such as job creation or increased taxation. Mellace said that if FVRD follows in Mission’s footsteps, smaller, legitimate operations like his wouldn’t be able to afford the move to expensive industrial properties. Additionally, Mellace predicts more vulnerability to the black market as large growers will need to sell their product, and if they don’t have enough medical customers, the temptation will be great to sell illegally. But mostly Mellace is concerned how the changes will affect prices, as growers will have to spend enormous amounts of money to

upgrade operations. And higher prices will only force individuals with medical conditions to grow pot for themselves illegally, he said. “This [FVRD] proposal is a desperate attempt to thwart new Health Canada regulations that set out stringent requirements for medical marijuana providers,” Mellace said. A final decision on zoning for medical marijuana operations hasn’t been made by the FVRD, which discuss the issue in November. Mellace hopes at the very least his property will be grandfathered in by FRVD so his operation can continue. - WITH FILES FROM ROCHELLE BAKER

The report found single-family incomes lag behind national and provincial levels, with the 2010 poverty rate of single-parent families in Abbotsford-Mission at 38.7 per cent, compared to a national average of 31.7 and the B.C. rate at 34.9. The 2010 overall poverty rate was 19 per cent, compared to 17.8 per cent nationally, and 19.6 per cent in B.C. Parents working full-time for minimum wage earn $37,310, or about $22,000 less than the recommended living wage of $59,569 for a family of four. (In 2013, the wage needed to live in the Fraser Valley was calculated at $16.37 per hour, for two working parents with two kids.) There were also more poor seniors. The poverty rate for those 65 and older was 8.3 per cent in 2010, (up from 8.1 in 2009), higher than the national average of 7.7 and equal to the B.C. rate. One area that raises questions for a future survey was day care. In 2012, Abbotsford had 1,166 licensed childcare spaces for kids under five, while the 2011 census said there were 8,530 children from 0-4. Full-time daycare costs ranged from $600 to more than $900 a month. “There is a disconnect between the number of children and licensed daycare spots.

Blankets for Canada Nov. 7, the Abbotsford Chapter of Blankets for Canada will have their monthly meeting from 1 – 4 p.m. at Fraser Valley Christian

So who’s minding the kids? Is daycare an issue in this community?” said McAlevy. The growing community also has a shortage of doctors. In 2011, there were 139 physicians per 100,000 Fraser East residents, lower than the national rate of 209 physicians per 100,000, but it has gone up 8.6 per cent from 2002. The report also had several highlights. The highschool graduation rate in Abbotsford in 2010-11 was 88.6 per cent, above the B.C. rate of 80.3 per cent and ahead of Mission (77.1) and Chilliwack (71.6). Post-secondary tuition at UFV was $3,864, compared to the B.C. average of $5,586 and the national cost of $4,931. In 2012, 66 per cent of residents felt a strong sense of community, just slightly below the B.C. and national average. The volunteer rate rose to 52 per cent, more than B.C.’s rate (46.6) and across Canada (47). Of those individuals who claimed charitable deductions (21.6 per cent), the median donation was $630, way above the national level of $260 or the B.C. level of $370. Among the top four ‘best things’ about Abbotsford, 25 per cent of respondents identified its parks and trails, while others said it was a sense of community, affordability and climate. The full report can be found at www. abbotsfordcf.org.

Briefly Centre, 31929 Mercantile Way (behind Ricky’s) in Abbotsford. All are welcome to help put knit and crochet

blankets together for those in need in Abbotsford. Donations of yarn always appreciated. All materials furnished. Call Nancy Gallagher 604-504-3713 for details.

THE TIMES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 ❘

NEWS

SAVE POWER. SAVE MONEY.

Find great deals on ENERGY STAR® products at Future Shop® or visit powersmart.ca/deals.

CRYSTAL GALA

–

TIE ONE ON

– PHOTOART BY ANDREW SIMPSON/ FOR TIMES

The women of the Crystal Gala Foundation visited Abbotsford city council on Oct. 7 to get support for their “Tie One On” fundraiser. The initiative features the sale of the jazzy pink ties during the month of October to raise funds for the Crystal Gala Breast Health Unit at the Abbotsford Regional Hospital & Cancer Centre (ARHCC). Anyone can help out by buying or selling the ties, which are $20 each. The Crystal Gala Foundation renowned for its yearly elegant and exciting themed fundraising event is also celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. To date, the foundation has raised $1.2 million for the ARHCC and has committed to raising a total of $1.6 million overall, which has resulted in the purchase of two state-of-the-art digital mammography machines. To purchase the neckwear or help Tie One On phone 778-241-5015 or visit the website at crystalgala.com or facebook.com/CrystalGala.

Practise preparedness for earthquakes SUBMITTED TO THE TIMES

Dr E Watt MD

face beautiful cosmedic

esidents of Abbotsford are being asked to “drop, cover and hold on” at precisely 10:17 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17, as participation in the ShakeOutBC Earthquake Drill. Wherever you are at that moment – at home, at work, at school, anywhere – you should drop, cover, and hold on as if a major earthquake were occurring at that very moment, and stay in this position for at least 60 seconds or until the shaking stops. “The main goal of ShakeOutBC is to

get British Columbians prepared for major earthquakes since we live in a seismically active region,” said Mayor Bruce Banman. “Everyone should use the ShakeOutBC drill as an opportunity to learn what to do before, during, and after an earthquake.” Earthquake preparedness is extremely important for B.C. residents as the province is part of the “Ring of Fire”, a 40,000kilometre horseshoe shaped region in the Pacific Ocean basin where a large number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur.

The Ring of Fire starts at the southern tip of New Zealand, up the east coast of Asia then crosses over to Alaska and runs down the west coast of North and South America. Off the west coast of British Columbia, the Cascadia Zone includes a portion of the Pacific Plate with the small Juan de Fuca Plate, which is sliding beneath the North American Plate creating a volatile fault line. In Abbotsford, the Boulder Creek fault line starts just east of Bellingham, Wash., runs 11 kilometres long and 17 km wide and 1 km beneath the surface.

GO BEHIND THE HEADLINES

Summer’s gone...

Vacation

cure the winter blues

get

AN ALL-NEW NEW

ready!

HAIR REMOVAL

Underarms and Bikini Upper Lip & Chin

135 per treatment $ 75 per treatment

MOVIE EXPERIENCE

• botox and ﬁllers • skin rejuvenation • skin tightening Call for complimentary consultation 604.864.8038 What a great time of year to start hair removal treatments effective technology and treatments to remove unwanted hair growth safely and permanently; all areas of the body

Check our website for monthly specials: www.facebeautiful.ca

Experience the NEW Cineplex Cinemas Abbotsford & VIP featuring 8 Big Screens, UltraAVX®, RealD 3D Interactive Games, PLUS: 3 VIP 19+ LICENSED AUDITORIUMS RESERVED SEATING IN-SEAT FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE SPECIALTY FOOD, LICENSED LOUNGE AND MORE

NOW OPEN 3122 Mt. Lehman Rd

face beautiful cosmedic 104-1945 McCallum Rd • 604.864.8038

™/®

Cineplex Entertainment LP or used under license.

❘ A7

A8 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 THE TIMES

Opinion

◗ Our view

WHO WE ARE

No free junk for junkies, feds say

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 ◗ Editorial Jean Konda-Witte Christina Toth Rochelle Baker ◗ 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

◗ Opinion

Gender inequality a teaching issue D

ecades ago Albert Shanker, one of the world’s highest ranking teacher union leaders, came to the Fraser Valley and made a stunning admission. Essentially he believed that unionizing teaching was the social catastrophe of the 20th century. There are many reasons why this is true, including one that stipulates all teachers be paid according to a lock-step scale without considering performance or need. Refusing to incorporate market-place principles disadvantages many children from receiving their fair education. Referencing gender issues evokes emotions. The feminist movement has achieved considerable success towards equality, but is there a discrimination now against males, specifically boys? Teaching suffers an imbalance with almost three out of four being female. More significant is that 83 per cent of elementary teachers are female and in primary grades the percentage is in the nineties. Teacher surveys indicate this imbalance is a concern, with 91 per cent believing that more male primary/junior teachers should be hired. But Ontario, for example, predicts a further 56 per cent decline in male elementary school teachers. Researchers argue that many boys from the growing number of single-mother homes in poor neighborhoods risk limited

JIM DUECK

Guest Column exposure to positive male role models until secondary school, when many have already become disenfranchised. Working in a female world has a significant impact on boys who experience more than 80 per cent of discipline referrals, 70 per cent identification as learning disabled and average 1.5 years lower in literacy. In the end, the male dropout rate is 56 per cent higher which explains, in part, why universities are now predominantly female. A recent U.S. study found that both boys and girls benefited from a same-sex teacher. It is estimated that just one year with a male English teacher would eliminate nearly one third of the gender gap in reading performance among 13year-olds and would do so by improving the performance of boys and simultaneously harming that of girls. A recent British survey lends weight to the role-model theory, indicating that boys aged 8 to 11 behave better when their teachers are men. These results explain why females qualify more for upper level courses in high school and then earn scholarships and

placement in prestigious universities. Researchers consistently demonstrate that females benefit from having teachers influenced by compliant behavior. Further, boys learn differently than girls, and classroom resources in schools are aimed more at girls because the adults selecting these are mostly female. Naturally the home situation has an influence. Girls see their moms enjoying reading. Boys seldom see dad reading but watch him cheering when a goal is scored. Role modeling is important. But the school system has to respond to this crisis of gender unfairness. Having a more balanced teaching force is a critical strategy. Administrators require latitude in attracting males into teaching. Collective agreements which block performance and need must be discarded. This may frighten unions because they do not want to disturb the principle that all receive the same pay, but students must come first. Children, and in this case boys, get only one chance at a quality education, and we must get it right. Albert Shanker had a valid point. ■ Jim Dueck is a former Abbotsford school superintendent, former assistant deputy minister in Alberta’s education ministry, an author and

nce again, the Conservative government charged blindly into ideological battle with a decision to deny heroin to Vancouver addicts involved in a clinical research project. The government’s decision came shortly after Health Canada had approved the program, which deals with addicts in lifethreatening situations for whom previous therapies have failed. In this case, the strategy clearly fell under the heading of harm reduction, which generally acknowledges addiction as a health issue rather than a criminal one and seeks to reduce the harm created by it and by recognizing that eliminating the problem is often not possible. Stephen Harper’s Conservatives are not fans of harm reduction. They have fought health authorities repeatedly on the issue, most notably challenging the existence of Vancouver’s supervised injection site, despite evidence that it has reduced harm to some of our most vulnerable citizens. Medical science has consistently backed up harm reduction as a sound philosophy. But the Tories have never been particularly interested in scientific evidence, much preferring ideological crusades. It’s a pattern that’s been repeated by the Tories in all areas where science has yielded a result that likely won’t appeal to its base of political supporters. “The answer of course is not to treat heroin addiction with heroin,” said Health Minister Rona Ambrose at a press conference in Toronto. “Our goal must be to take heroin out of the hands of addicts. We must focus on treatment and ... on recovery,” There is, of course, no logic to this particular decision. The fact that the study participants are all long-term chronic addicts who have failed to respond to other treatment would indicate they will be taking heroin regardless. The only difference will be whether that occurs in a safe, controlled setting or on the streets.

■ To comment on this editorial, e-mail us at letters@abbotsfordtimes.com.

◗ Your view Last week’s question:

Should the NHL ban fighting? a.] Yes, it’s only a matter of time before someone dies during a game as a result of a fight.

64% b.] No. Fighting is part of the game.

21% c.] If fighting were taken out of hockey, I would no longer watch the sport.

15%

This week’s question: Did the city make the correct call in upholding the bylaw banning backyard chicken coops? a.] Yes, the city is no place to raise a chicken. b.] No. People should have the right to their own food-producing sources. c.] There’s a backyard chicken bylaw?

VOTE NOW: www.abbotsfordtimes.com

THE TIMES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 ❘

LETTERS

❘ A9

OCTOBER IS POWER SMART MONTH!

Save power. Save money. For great deals on energy-saving products, visit powersmart.ca/deals.

‘Cat Father’ incensed with council

Editor, the Times:

As I sat and witnessed novice councillors proceed with dumping the proverbial manure on caring citizens who have been doing council’s work, as volunteers, for years, a tear came to my eye. Councillor Tilbury, supported by long-time Councillor Stevens, made a passioned plea again, to assist animals in mission, this time to prohibit cruel tethering, but their sane pleas, innovative ideas and compassion fell upon the same deaf ears. Recently, council just sidestepped and would not even consider a review, plan and discussion to assist cats and thoughts of a new future shelter for dogs and cats. This is characteristic of council’s devoid of empathy, compassion and vision that would welcome innovative ideas to deal effectively with the massive stray cat problem in Mission. Instead, we heard fearmongering, alluding to a mystical $50,000 increase in enforcement, blaming the SPCA for not doing its job and the provincial government for not adopting an effective Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act. The facts remain, talk is cheap and ineffective, empathy and actions speak louder than words. Mission is clearly – and has been since at least 1995 – in a prehistoric time warp of uncaring council that has perpetuated indifference and inaction to date. Thus, thousands of unwanted Cats roam Mission. Being prolific breeders, they contribute increasing numbers of unwanted litters across Mission. Volunteers desperately try to fill the massive void council has created, but lack of funding and volunteer burn-out persists, which is exacerbated by the lack of council leadership. A recent opinion poll asking if the public supported council’s decision to not proceed with review of FVHS proposal for a new combined dog and cat Shelter produced an emphatic “no” from the public, as 93 per cent (215 of 231 votes cast) disagreed with the decision. The public are invited to attend the Oct. 21 council meeting in Mission (6 p.m. start), with me, “The Cat Father”, to plead the case for saner and more adept Council leadership. George F. Evens Mission

TO INCLUDE YOUR LETTER, use our online

NEWEST HEARING AIDS • • • •

form at www.abbotsfordtimes.com or contact us by email at letters@abbotsfordtimes.com. Letters must include first/last names, hometown and be fewer than 300 words. Publication of a letter may provoke responses - the best ones always do. Publication of a letter does not entitle the author to a rebuttal of said responses.

Big money wins, residents lose Editor, the Times: On Sept. 23 our local government voted to support a 190 ft. cell tower, at Lougheed Highway in Hatzic, close to two schools and residents. Since the Jan. 28, 2013 meeting over 900 residents worked very hard to voice their opinion against the tower, and at the April 16, 2013 meeting, the local government did not support

the tower. Now, Sept. 23, 2013 they voted to support the tower. The representative for WIND Mobile said it will be the first WIND tower in the area. I’ve been told there are 10 more cell towers coming to Mission. Unless you’re a billionaire business person, don’t bother the local government, with your opinion. I was told, “We know what you think”.

Audeo from Phonak

* Easy & comfortable ﬁt * No echo or whistling * Invisible behind ear * Adjusts automatically * Focuses on speech

Free hearing test included Free 60 day trial Free quarterly service for life Free home service for seniors

We have a large selection of newest makes and models to ﬁt any ear and any budget.

Prices start from

899

Payment plans available

For appointment call

(604) 855-3702

Hearing Care Centre Unit 101-33774 Marshall Rd., Abbotsford

Mary Roadhouse Mission

Registered in College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC

German Engineering at its ﬁnest.

Come and join us for all things German ✔ Live Entertainment from Franzl and his Squeezebox, Alpine Sing-a-Long

✔ Free Pretzels to the First 200 Visitors from the Gesundheit Authentic German Bakery

Oktoberfest Oct. 19th 2013

✔ Kick off the Winter Season with Oom-pah-pah ✔ Big Birthday Basket Prize Draw ✔ Tourism Harrison – Harrison Beer Festival ✔ Black Forest Meats & Sausage Serving Authentic German Food

Real Farmers. Real Food. Real Fun. Saturdays, 9am – 1pm Montrose Avenue at George Ferguson Way Check us out on Facebook and on our website for more info

abbotsfordfarmandcountrymarket.com

FOLLOW THE LEADER @ABBYTIMES

& LIKE

WHAT YOU SEE ON OUR FACEBOOK

FREE UP-TO-THE MINUTE LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS & EVENTS

www.abbotsfordtimes.com

A10 ❘ COMMUNITY ❘ TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 THE TIMES

Traveller puts Abbotsford on the sign forest map TIMES STAFF

arol Cameron had a walk in a most unusual forest during her trip to Alaska. The Abbotsford resident made the popular road trip in September, taking advantage of all the quirky tourist attractions along the way that make the Alaska Highway drive such a unique experience. One such attraction is the world famous Watson Lake Signpost Forest, and now, thanks to Cameron’s tourist participation, the Abbotsford stamp has a place in the Yukon. Watson Lake is a small town on the very edge of the Yukon/British Columbia border, with a population of approximately 800 people. The population of its signpost forest is nearly 100 times as much.

Legend has it that the signpost forest was started in 1942 by a homesick U.S. army soldier, who posted his hometown and the distance from Watson Lake. One sign led to another, and now the forest has in excess of 78,000 signs, including Cameron’s. “Travellers from all over the world have left their homemade signs,” said Cameron. “A board can be purchased from the hardware store in Watson Lake and the paint is provided by the Visitor’s Information building.” Cameron bought a board, applied the paint and added Abbotsford to the forest. “My sign was the only sign I could find for Abbotsford,” said Cameron. “I have left my mark in Watson Lake.” – SUBMITTED

Pictured, clockwise from above – Carol Cameron, of Abbbotsford, designs her sign, then finds a spot for her sign in the Watson Lake Signpost Forest; the finished product; a view of a couple of forest rows. The renowned signpost forest along the Alaska Highway, now boasts more than 78,000 signs. Carol said hers was the only sign she could find that was from Abbotsford.

O U Y A T D ! S L R I OMEN’S EVENT G W T S ES LARGE T A C’ M B I T L LIVE U THE

Meet

MELODY THOMAS SCOTT

SUNDAY

from

WOMEN’S HEALTH & WELLNESS

FOR

D REAGS TDEAL

SHOP & SAVE at over 400 HOME & INTERIOR DECOR ZONE! booths! Look for the RED TAGS at over 100 booths to get the best deals and show specials.

The best Fall Home Show in the Valley!

KITCHEN THEATRE & WORLD OF TASTE DAILY FASHION SHOWS! Nibble, sample & savour to your heart’s content.

Get tips from

LIVE

SAT & SUN

Living Life and Loving It! An exciting lineup from local designers to rock your own style like never before.

Day! First 500 visitors receive a FREE gift pack from

SAVE $$ ON TICKETS

SAVE $3

(Tickets valid on all 3 days of the show)

$3 OFF Adult Tickets when you Join our VIP Club online.

$2 OFF Adult Tickets at London Drugs $2 OFF Adult Ticket Discount Coupon printable online

(Valid only on Friday between 1–5 pm)

TRADEX

TRADE & EXHIBITION CENTRE ABBOTSFORD

Visit the website for more information. Valid all days and times.

TICKETS

ADULTS SENIORS (65+) YOUTH (13-17) CHILDREN (6-12)

5 AND UNDER

OCT 25, 26 & 27

from

HGTV’S HOLMES MAKES IT RIGHT® PRESENTED BY

PERFORMANCES, DEMO’S & PRESENTATIONS ON 5 STAGES! FASHION & STYLE SHOWCASE FREE GIFT Sunday is Mothers & Daughters Boutique shopping, jewellery & accessories right from the runway to your closet!

SHERRY HOLMES

LIVE

FRI & SAT

12.00 $ 9.00 $ 9.00 $ 4.00

GIRLS NIGHT OUT! HALL OF FLAME CALENDAR FIREFIGHTERS FASHION SHOW! MARTINI NIGHTS!

FREE

HOURS: OCT 25 1PM-10PM, OCT 26 10AM–9PM, OCT 27 11AM–5:30PM WestCoastWomen.net

101513

TCH WA

THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS

Listen to top health experts and speakers to look & feel your best

THE TIMES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 ❘

COMMUNITY

❘ A11

SAVE MONEY ON APPLIANCES THAT SAVE MONEY ON POWER.

– JEAN KONDA-WITTE/TIMES

Fraser Valley Stage members Kathy McWhinney and Derek Albon, left, perform at the dinner for the St. Francis Day Animal Charity event Sept. 28 at The Parish of St. Matthew in Abbotsford. They sang Aba Daba Honeymoon, a delightful song about a monkey and a chimp who fall in love. Above, Adrienne Joiner sings Memory from the Broadway musical, Cats. The evening featured a dinner, with food donated by local farms and Thrifty Foods, and a silent auction. More than $6,000 was raised for six local animal charities.

It’s all for the animals at St. Francis Day event JEAN KONDA-WITTE

JKonda-Witte@abbotsfordtimes.com

he St. Francis Day Animal Charity Event Sept. 28 was a huge success despite a day of solid rain. “We had a lot of community involvement and it was wonderful,” said Dr. Elizabeth Borgmann of Whatcom Veterinary Hospital, who partnered with the Parish of St. Matthew in Abbotsford for the second annual event at the Anglican church. The day included a family event in the afternoon with animals on hand, and a dinner, silent auction and entertainment in the evening, in which more than $6,000 was raised for six local animal charities. Those charities included Abbotsford SPCA, Fraser Valley Humane Society, Elizabeth’s Wildlife Center, Critter Care Wildlife Society, BC Search Dog Association and SAINTS. “We tried to represent animals and the broad way in which they influence our life,” said Borgmann. The afternoon included games, a petting zoo, animal games, a band and a blessing of the animals by Father Allen. Members of the Fraser Valley Stage Society performed after the dinner. “It was a wonderful performance,” said Borgmann. “Much of their entertainment had an animal based theme. They definitely put a lot of thought and effort into it.” See www.facebook.com/ StFrancisDayAnimalCharityEvent for more photos.

SAVE MONEY ON THINGS THAT SAVE MONEY ON POWER.

10 Donated to the MCC for each cake entered Phone / Email / Call for details

hite

ouse

www.littlewhitehouseco.com ❘ littlewhitehousefort@gmail.com Little White House & Co LWHandCO 2626 Montrose Ave Abbotsford ❘ 604.853.0909

GRAND OPENING

CAKE & BAKE CONTEST

For great deals on ENERGY STAR® appliances, visit powersmart.ca/deals.

View & Vote on Best Cake Nov 2nd

hite

ouse

apparel ❘ furnishings ❘ jewellery ❘ linens ❘ lighting ❘ gifts ❘ vintage treasures ❘ home decor ❘ cafe 2626 Montrose Ave Abbotsford ❘ 604.853.0909 ❘ www.littlewhitehouseco.com

SALE PRICE:

$1,499.99

SAVE $100

SAMSUNG® 21.6 CU. FT. STAINLESS STEEL FRENCH DOOR REFRIGERATOR N?*(X "Y 1DA;7@% 2U++-M80<12 L-C+--C+CK [ )C" V!*( [ W'J,!(@9 OW6 X!%#9!@% [ U?7= ;>X!9 ;#(X5(; DXX?V %=(D9(= I(T!B!X!9S !@ '??* ;9?=D%( [ P@9(=@DX VD9(= *!;>(@;(=

4''(= 5DX!* 4,9?B(= -&H +C-) ?@XSF

Save power. Save money. It doesn’t get any easier, especially when you take advantage of these great deals on energy-saving products.

SALE PRICE:

For more deals visit powersmart.ca/deals.

SAMSUNG 46" F5500 SMART SLIM LED TV

$899.99

SAVE $50

Model #: UN46F5500AFXZC [ -C\C> =(;?X79!?@ D@* $CRQ =('=(;# =D9( [ :7!X9G!@ .!GU! 9? ;9=(DA A(*!D D@* D,,(;; D>>; [ 19=(DA A?5!(; D@* 0/ ;#?V; !@;9D@9XSH ?@ *(AD@* V!9# 8!@(ADM?V

4''(= 5DX!* 4,9?B(= -- E 4,9?B(= )-H +C-)F

4,9?B(= !; 3?V(= 1AD=9 N?@9#F /!;!9 U797=( 1#?>® 9? 9DZ( D*5D@9D%( ?' DADQ!@% *(DX; ?@ (@(=%SG;D5!@% >=?*7,9; 9#D9 V!XX DX;? ;D5( S?7 A?@(S ?@ S?7= >?V(= B!XXF

A12 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 THE TIMES

Sports

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

Abby judoka gunning for gold 300+ competing for berths at 2014 judo nationals JEAN KONDA-WITTE JKonda-Witte@abbotsfordtimes.com

he Abbotsford Judo Club will be making its presence known at the upcoming BC Judo Championships Oct. 19 in Abbotsford. Head instructor Tokue Suda is sending 50 students, ranging in age from 10 years to seniors, to compete in the provincial tournament, which is also a qualifier for the nationals next spring . The Abbotsford Judo Club (AJC), in existence since 1981, is hosting this year’s event, which will draw more than 300 athletes from all over the province. Four of his top judoka (a person who practises or is an expert in judo), Jeff Swadden, 17, Brandon Slooyer, 17, Connor Slooyer, 14 and Connor Jones, 16, have a real shot at medaling and qualifying for nationals. “I expect them to all do very well,” said instructor Chris Astoria. Swadden recently represented Canada at the U18 Cadet World Judo Championship in Miami, Fla. this past August. He has also been to the Canadian nationals twice before, winning one gold and two bronze medals. Brandon Slooyer has also been to nationals six times, with his best being a sixth place finish. At last year’s national competi-

age/weight division will make Team BC and qualify for the national championship in Quebec in May 2014. ■ The 2013 BC Championship runs Sat-

Heat games on Sportsnet

– JEAN KONDA-WITTE/TIMES

tion in Richmond, athletes from the Abbotsford club won six medals. “That was the best performance of the Abbotsford Judo Club,” said Suda. “It’s a stepping stone to go to the next level.” Suda, a sixth-degree black belt, who moved the club to its current location 24 years ago, said one of his biggest challenges is keeping

his athletes healthy and focused for such a long time. The training season is a gruelling one and goes from September to May, with various tournaments interspersed along the way. “My job is to keep them focused all year round so they learn the techniques,” he added. The top three medalists in each

FV golfer Dani Shap of Mission was named PACWEST Women’s Player of the Year, and UFV’s head coach Chris Bertram was named Coach of the Year. Awards will be handed out at the PACWEST Golf Awards Oct. 15 at the CCAA All-Canadian banquet at the Royal Quebec Golf Club. The UFV women’s golf team is ranked No. 1 in this week’s CCAA top-10 poll, fresh off their first ever PACWEST conference title, going undefeated in the three regular season tournaments. The ladies posted a team score of 950, 50 strokes better than their closest B.C. opponent. UFV women were ranked No. 1 all year in the CCAA top-10 poll.

The Eugene Reimer Ravens Grade 8 football team lost a close exhibition game to GW Graham from Chilliwack by a score of 24-14. The Ravens were leading at halftime 14-0. Anthony Pham scored two touchdowns from 15 and 30 yards out. Arvin Sharma scored on a two-point convert. Players of the game were Pham for offence, Sharma for defence, and lineman of the game was Tanveer Kaler. The Ravens will be taking on cross-town rivals Abbotsford Middle Oct. 15 at Rick Hansen at 3:15 p.m. The UFV Cascades opened their 2013-14 women’s basketball preseason with a 6157 victory over the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks Oct. 10 in Waterloo, Ont. The Cascades spotted the Hawks a two-point lead early and a defensive battle ensued in the second half as UFV outscored WLU by a 29-27 score for the win. Aieisha Luyken led UFV with a 13-point performance, Sarah Wierks added 12 points and Nicole Wierks led all Cascades with eight rebounds. The Cascades shot 33 per cent overall for the game.

Abbotsford Judo Club students, from left, Brandon Slooyer, 17, Jeff Swadden, 17, Connor Jones, 16 and Connor Slooyer, 14 are hoping to win gold at the BC Judo Championships Oct. 19 at the Ag-Rec Building in Abbotsford.

Grade 8 gridiron

UFV hoopsters win

urday, Oct. 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ag-Rec Building, Abbotsford Exhibition Park, 32470 Haida Dr. Spectators are welcome to come and watch.

UFV golfers, coach scoop top PACWEST honours

DANI SHAP

Sports shorts

off

All Halloween Items!

When you spend $30 or more on Halloween items before tax.

UFV men honoured as PACWEST all-stars were Aaron Pauls and Darren Whitehouse. Women all-stars were Shap and Jen Woods. Shap and UFV’s Connor O’Dell were also named PACWEST Athletes of the Week, after both helped lead the Cascades to provincial championships. Both UFV men’s and women’s teams will compete in the CCAA Ping national championship tournament Oct. 15-18, at the Royal Quebec Golf Club in Quebec City. The Cascades men go into the CCAA national championship ranked No. 3. – JEAN KONDA-WITTE

% Signature Series products off selected

Ask us about the new Signature Series Inspired Draperies

or more

Oct.01/2013 to Oct.31/2013

Buck or Two Plus! In the Junction Mall 604.820.9060 352-32555 London Ave, Mission BC Bring in this coupon or print it from our Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/BuckorTwoPlusMission

• Wood & Faux Wood Blinds • Cellulars • Woven Woods • Shutters • Draperies • Window Film & Window Screens • and more

604.853.6278

www.budgetblinds.com/abbotsford

CHRIS BERTRAM

The American Hockey League and Sportsnet, entering the third year of a fiveyear relationship, announced that Sportsnet will deliver a 10-game package of regularseason AHL broadcasts during the 2013-14 season. Sportsnet 360 will broadcast 10 AHL games in Canada on consecutive Sundays beginning Feb. 9. The games will also be seen on NHL Network in the United States. Abbotsford Heat games to be broadcast include March 23 (vs. Toronto Marlies) at 3 p.m. ET, March 30 (vs. Toronto Marlies) at 4 p.m. ET and Apr. 13 (vs. Oklahoma City Barons) at 4 p.m. ET. Sportsnet will also broadcast two-day coverage of the 2014 AHL AllStar Classic Feb. 11-12. – JEAN KONDA-WITTE

ECM Strata Management Managing Strata & Rental properties since 2000 • Professional service • Qualiﬁed staff • Affordable rates • No hidden charges • 100% Transparency • Proactive ph 604.855.9895 fax 604.855.9825 www.ecmstrata.com info@ecmstrata.com

THE TIMES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 ❘

EDUCATION

–

COMMUNITY

❘ A13

LET THEM EAT PI – SUBMITTED

St. John Brebeuf Secondary School math students, from left, Matthew McGregor, Karl Carpizo, Vincent DiTomaso, Shayne Oberhoffner, Alex Lee and Irene Lee experienced A-Taste-of-Pi at Simon Fraser University on Oct. 5. Along with 50 other gifted students, they enjoyed Dr. Wittenberg’s presentation – Functions and Chaos, a contemporary application of mathematics. From exploring iteration of functions to implication for predictions, the students learned to use a simple rule to calculate complex functions. ATaste-of-Pi is a mathematics enrichment program offered by SFU department of mathematics, faculty of science and the Pacific Institute for Mathematical Sciences. It is one of many prominent programs offering high school students a unique opportunity to explore mathematical and scientific applications in the real world. The program was established by Christine Tsou, business department head at St. John Brebeuf in Abbotsford. “LOVING’S ONE THING – BEING LOVED IS ANOTHER.”

Women’s chorus

Oct. 15, the Valley Echoes Chorus, Sweet Adelines chapter invites women to join for Christmas singing. No fees, rehearsal Tuesday evenings from 6:45 – 9:30 p.m. at Garden Park Towers, Azalea room, 2825 Clearbrook Rd., Abbotsford. Come early for voice placement. Call Ann at 604-826-8060 or Pam at 604-855-4081.

Word Keepers

Oct. 16, join other writers of all skill levels from 7 – 8:30 p.m. at Mission Library, 33247 Second Ave. Writers are encouraged to read from their work or simply sit and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the group.

Int’l Knitting Club

Oct. 16, interested in knitting? Drop by Mission Library, 33247 Second Ave. from noon to 1:30 p.m. Presented in co-operation with Mission Community Services. Call 604-826-6610.

Help with knitting

Oct. 16, first aid and more for knit wits, 2 – 4 p.m. at the Clearbrook Library, 32320 George Ferguson Way. Need help with your knitting project or seeking the cozy society of other knitters to while away the afternoon? Bring your needles and wool to the library. Registration appreciated. Phone 604-8597814 ext. 224.

eBooks and the Library.

Oct 16, 6:30 – 8 p.m. at the Abbotsford Community Library, 33355 Bevan Ave. Learn how to select and download library books to

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. your computer or eReader. Registration required at 604853-1753.

Babytime fun

Oct. 16 and on, make language fun. Start early with Babytime at Mission Library on Wednesday from 10:30 – 11 a.m. Help your baby develop speech and language skills – enjoy bouncing, singing, and rhyming with stories. For more call 604-826-6610.

Family roots meeting

Oct. 17, at 6:30 p.m., the Abbotsford Genealogy Society meets at The Reach, 32388 Veterans Way, Abbotsford. Brenda Smith talks about using maps in our searches. Everyone is welcome. See more at www. abbygs.ca.

A Renaissance man

Oct. 17, 10 a.m. – noon,

Learning Plus presents Jill Bain, UFV visual arts department, to help us discern our fascination with Leonardo Da Vinci and his best-known images, at ARC, 2499 McMillan Rd. Fee is $5 plus $2 ARC drop-in fee.

Better Breathers meet

Oct. 17, the Mission Sumas Abbotsford Better Breathers Club meets the third Thursday of each month from 10 a.m. – noon at the Cascade Community Church, 35190 DeLair Rd., Abbotsford. Share information, education and support with others living with CD and/or asthma.

Storytime fun

Oct. 18 and on, introduce kids to the love of books and language with storytime at the Mission Library, Fridays from 10:30 – 11 a.m. Children and caregivers will enjoy interactive stories,

songs, rhymes and more. Call 604-826-6610.

Family Fun Night

Oct. 18, bring the whole gang out, we’ll play games, learn a new craft and socialize with friends and family. 5:45-7:45 p.m. at Sweeney Neighbourhood Centre, 33355 Bevan Ave., Abbotsford. This a free event open to the public.

Haunted House MAC

Oct. 18 to 30, the Mission Arts Council presents Fractured Fairy Tales Haunted Mansion. Kids 8-12 must have adult with them. $10, at 33529 First Ave., Mission. Call 604-826-0029 or see haunted.missionartscouncil. ca for hours.

Oktoberfest

Oct. 19, Mission Legion, 32627 Logan Ave., is hosting Oktoberfest starting at 6:30 p.m. Live music by Sweetwater. Tickets are $12.50 for dinner/dance. Call 604-826-2331.

Manga village

Oct. 19, join us for contests, crafts, food, and manga and anime talk at Mission Library, 33247 Second Ave., from 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. For teens ages 12 to 18. For all the details call 604-8266610.

Reclaim Your Body: Overcoming Emotional Overeating

6 weekly sessions beginning Nov. 5th till Dec. 10th 7-9 pm, Mission Business Centre, 7311 James St. Mission Facilitated by: Marion Fallding, M.A. Registered Clinical Counsellor 20 yrs experience with disordered & eating disorders. Cost: $240 For more info: Call 604-226-2866 or email marionfallding@shaw.ca

UFV THEATRE PRESENTS

The

Little

&"#$%'! By Hans Christian Andersen Adapted by Pam Gems Directed by Colleen Lanki

November 6 – 24, 2013 Suitable for 6 yrs +

UFV Performance Theatre 45635 Yale Road Chilliwack, BC

IMAGE CREDIT: SHIJUN H. MUNNS, SHIJUNART.COM

604-795-2814 theatre@ufv.ca Buy tickets online at ufv.ca/theatre

Book Keeper Wanted to join our winning team

CAR DEALERSHIP EXPERIENCE ONLY NEED APPLY • report directly to president We will ONLY • good communication skills, in english contact short listed candidates. • team player • able to do full cycle accounting on PBS software ﬁnancial statement preparation, accurate accounts receivable and payable processing, process invoices, reconcile bank & credit card, maintain ﬁxed asset schedule, post journal entris, payroll, banking including deposits, reconcile all customer payments.

Perfect candidate will have minimum 5 years experience, be organized and able to multi-task, fantastic computer skills and cost control mentality, work unsupervised with maximum accuracy. Compensation for this position is $37,000 - $48,000 depending on experience.

Please send resume to:

FRASER VALLEY

MITSUBISHI

MOTORS

45510 Yale Road, West, Chilliwack • V2P 1A2

QUALITY

MEATS

Prices in effect Oct 15th to 19th

Canada AA Natural Beef

BLADE CHUCK STEAK.... 309 lb

BC Select Pork

SHOULDER BUTT ROAST .... 289 lb

From our Smokehouse

NATURALLY SMOKED

COIL GARLIC SAUSAGE ........... “Serving the community for more than 40 years”

Find us at www.davismeats.ca

2844 Mt. Lehman Rd., Abbotsford Open:Tue - Sat, 8:30am - 5:30pm

604-850-1249

Auto Mall

Fraser Hwy

Round About

289 lb

Abbotsford Mt. Lehman

Oct. 15, Alateen meets every Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. at Home Society Building, 31581 S. Fraser Way, Abbotsford. Alateen, a part of Al-Anon family groups, is for young people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking, parent, sibling or friend. Call 604-8551942 or 604-826-5100 for details.

Bradner Rd.

Teen support

1 Davis Meats

South Fraser Way

A14 ❘ COMMUNITY ❘ TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013 THE TIMES

FIELD TRIP

–

PUMPKIN PRODUCTION

SUBMITTED BY TRACY BYERS/FOR THE TIMES

GO BEHIND THE HEADLINES

www.smcleanfraservalley.ca FOR SPECIALS, COUPONS AND FREE GIVEAWAYS CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE Like our FACEBOOK PAGE and you will receive your first coupon. https://www.facebook.com/ SMCleanFV

101013

Grade 1 student Kurtis Byers found the perfect pumpkin during Matsqui Elementary School’s recent field trip to the Willow View Farms’ pumpkin patch in Abbotsford.

Phone: 604-853-8779 to book an appointment

3rd Annual A free family fun day!

The clean you expect The service you deserve

October 26, 2013 Philip Jackman Park 32nd Ave. & 271 St. Aldergrove 10:00am to 9:00pm

for

Pumpkin Lighting Ceremony 7:00pm

ENTER

ULTIMATE TO WIN AN

FISHING PACKAGE

FOR 4 $1000

VALUED AT

Charlotte Diamond