Rossland News, May 03, 2012

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Rick Hansen Relay makes Rossland students show talents impression in Rossland at evening of fine arts See Page 8 See Page 12

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;M GORGEOUS INSIDE!

SD20 swiftly moves to pass budget

$430,000 1980 Kootenay Ave

JJodie di O O.

Realtor & Property Manager

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TIMOTHY SHAFER Trail Times Reporter

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There was no shortage of volunteers to get their heads shaved Saturday night during the Roller Derby doubleheader at the Rossland arena. Donations went to the Canadian Cancer Society and Prevent Cancer Now. In total, $5,569.87 was raised.

The ghost of a proposed school district budget past became the specter of a school district budget present as the board of trustees unanimously passed the first two readings on a balanced budget Monday night. However, the balancing act came on the backs of nearly 14 full time job losses throughout the region â&#x20AC;&#x201D; including two teacher-librarians, almost eight teachers, three non-enrolling teacher staff, and one custodian â&#x20AC;&#x201D; with a motion towards consideration of school closures still forthcoming. Much of Monday nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crowd of 40 people first heard the budget cuts presented last week in a public meeting in Trail but in proposal form. Nothing had changed since that committee of the whole meeting last week, even though the board had been â&#x20AC;&#x153;openâ&#x20AC;? for comment on what the document contained since Wednesday night. Instead, people bore witness to the quick passage with no deliberation of the budget in the special open board meeting at Blueberry Creek Community School. The $42-million budget for 2012/13 wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t well received last week in a proposal form from SD20 administration, and it was even less tolerable Monday by those See SD20 on P. 3

Arne Petryshen photo

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Your

Horoscope For the Week with Michael Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor inside the West Kootenay Advertiser

Council questions RDKB spending ARNE PETRYSHEN Rossland News Editor

Council had a few concerns with the Regional District of Kootenay-Boundaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s increase in its annual budget of 3.5 per cent. Rossland council has had the third year of zero increases.

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Coun Tim Thatcher found the spending surprising. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of money being spent,â&#x20AC;? Thatcher said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t control that but it seems out of control.â&#x20AC;? Thatcher noted some of the big budget items, like the transit cost of almost $200,000. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Are we really getting the value out of that?â&#x20AC;? he asked â&#x20AC;&#x153;I

know its a touchy subject, but thats a big chunk of money, when you look at the ridership.â&#x20AC;? Coun. Jill Spearn defended the transit saying that it helps people who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the opportunity to drive. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It addresses a segment of society, whether they be less fortunate or whether they

choose to be green and take the bus or other reason like seniors,â&#x20AC;? Spearn said, adding that she noted to council years ago that Rossland could probably do with small busses, using the busses she saw in Mexico as example. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The buses here are huge and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re seemingly underused. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the format of the transpor-

tation that we might take issue with in my mind. She noted that businesses in Rossland benefit from more transit to the city. Coun. Jody Blomme agreed with Spearn. I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very important that we have a transit system,â&#x20AC;? Blomme said. See City on P. 3

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The date Tuesday April 24, 2012 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Prestige Mountain Resort

A2 www.rosslandnews.com

Thursday, May 3, 2012 Rossland News

Community Lot .BZ JT

Tell your community whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening! Send photos, stories, event listings, upcoming activities and regular group meetings to reporter@rosslandnews.com or submit your listing on our website at rosslandnews.com

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$*5: $06/$*- Next regular meeting is Monday, May 7, starting at 7 p.m.

3044-"/% /&84 $"-&/%"3 0/-*/& Upload events that are coming up free online at

www.rosslandnews.com/calendar/

#*,& ."*/5&/"/$& $-"44&4 at Revolution Cycle in Rossland. Kids bike maintenance class Monday May 7, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bike maintenance Thursday May 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Adult bike maintenance Wednesday May 16, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bike maintenance Wednesday May 31, 6:30-8:30 p.m. 8&45 ,005&/": 30--&3 %&3#: -&"(6& "$5*0/ in Rossland next Wednesday at the Rossland arena May 9 starting at 6 p.m. Gnarlieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Angels will be taking on the Lumber Jackies in the mid week bout. '*3&4."35 803,4)01 Find out how you can reduce the wildfire hazard to your home

and property, free. Please sign-up by email to dmortimer@telus.net Facilitator: Don Mortimer Location: Rossland Arena Lounge Date: Tuesday May 8 from 7 - 9 p.m. #00, 3&"%*/( "/% -"6/$) Yolanda Ridge will be reading from her brand new novel

Road Block on Saturday, May 5, 1 p.m to 2 p.m at Cafe Books West. The event is free, with juice and cupcakes for the kids. Books are on sale now at Cafe Books West. More info: 250-362-5333 or cafebookswest.com

306(&.64*$ concert series presents: the Couloir Duo with harpist Heidi Krutzen

and cellist, Ariel Barnes. Monday May 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the Rouge Gallery (old bank building, Rossland) Tickets $15 available at the Rouge Gallery. 250-362-9609

3&-": '03 -*'& '6/%3"*4&3 at the shovel. Get your tickets before May 6. Tickets include a burger, beer and entertainment. There are also two Red Mtn day passes up for grabs! Proceeds go to Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life. For info contact Robert 250.231.6924 Website: www.facebook.com/TrailRelayForLife Cost: $20 #055-& %3*7& Save your bottles, cans and juice boxes, the Gold Fever Follies will be

doing curbside pick up, or drop off your refundable recyclables at the empty lot across from the Prestige. June 9, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.Lisa old_grey_mare_55@hotmail.com

53"*- ."1-& -&"' #"/% Monday evening practices 7 - 9 p.m. in the McIntyre Room at the Cominco Memorial Centre. Brass and woodwind players welcomed. For more info, contact Andrea McKay, 362-7604. +0& )*-- $0''&&)064& Each month on the third Sunday from 7-9:30 pm., the Rossland Minerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hall hosts performers - music, dance, spoken word, theatre. Interested volunteers and performers may contact Michael Gifford at 250-362-7170 or giffmus@telus.net. Adults $3, students free. Treats available. Doors open at 6:30p.m.. Next show is May 20. 413*/( 5&" May 12 at Saint Andrews Church in Rossland. "35 &9)*#*5 "/% 4"-& of Catherine Wetmore. Over 100 paintings 75 per cent off. One

day only at St. Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church, 1347 Pine Ave. Trail. A unique event and a rare opportunity for collectors of original art.

-&440/4 "5 -00-6 4 -045 4)&&1 Sit nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Knit, Thursdays 1:30 - 3:30 pm! Bring your

projects and questions and get help from an expert knitter, all for a $2 donation (all proceeds to local charity) Call 362-5383.

.05)&3 (004& Rhymes, songs, finger plays and stories, 9:30-10:30 am, Thursdays at

MacLean StrongStart Center. Free, drop-in, for caregivers and young children.

4503:5*.& "5 5)& -*#3"3: Fridays at the Rossland Library: Tots (ages 3-5) 10:1510:45 am and Books for Babies (under 3) 11:00-11:30 am. Drop-in. A parent or guardian must remain in the program room for the duration. 3044-"/% 4,"5&1"3, $0..*55&& 6-8 pm, first Tuesday each month at the Rossland

Library. Come be part of the process.

$0-6.#*" %*453*$5 (*3- (6*%&4 Columbia District Girl Guides has units from Ross-

land to Salmo for girls aged 5 to 17. Call 250-367-7115. Leaders also wanted.

*/%003 40$$&3 Wednesdays at RSS gym. starts at 7 p.m. $2 drop-in or $5 for the

season. Wear indoor shoes.

,)"04 01&3" Will be at the Charles Bailey Theatre in Trail on May 12. Tickets are on

4$065*/( For boys and girls, now at the Rossland Scout Hall. Beavers (ages 5,6,7) Wed. 6-7pm. Cubs (ages 8, 9, 10) Thu. 4-5:30pm. Contact Shanna Tanabe: 362-0063.

*/'"/5 .05)&3 (004& 130(3". Enjoy an hour of rhymes, songs and stories with

:$%$ :065) /*()54 Free drop-in, 1504 Cedar Ave, Trail. Call 364-3322 or contact coordinator@columbiaycdc.ca. Art Night: Tue. 7pm; Movie Night: Wed. 6-8pm.

sale at the Charles Bailey Theatre ticket office (250-368-9669). Adults: $25, Seniors/ students: $20. Show time: 7:30 p.m., Saturday, May 12

your child (age 0-15 months), from 10-11 a.m., Saturdays, April 14 to June 16 at the Rossland Library (meeting room). The program is free, but please pre-register. Contact: Lynn Amann 362-5835, lamann1062@hotmail.com

30:"- $"/"%*"/ -&(*0/ #3 3044-"/% General Meetings are held at 7:30 p.m. on

the third Wed. of every month. All members of Branch #14 are asked to attend.

(0-%&/ $*5: -*0/4 The Lions meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each

month at 6 p.m. at the Rossland Legion. Contact W. Profili at 362-7671

305"3: $-6# 0' 3044-"/% Weekly meetings at the Rock Cut Pub, Mon., 6-8pm. All welcome! Contact John Sullivan, 362-5278.

4$)00- %*453*$5 .&&5*/( Next regular open board meeting is Monday, May 7 at 7

(&/&"-0(: West Kootenay Family Historians, 7pm, first Monday each month, Sept to

p.m. at Trail Middle School.

June, SHSS, Castlegar. Annual fee $10. Contact Jean, 365-8100, or Grace, 364-1426.

3044-"/% 3"%*0 $0 01 Open meetings will now take place every third Monday of the month. More info: radio@rosslandradio.com.

"*3 $"%&54 Meets every Wed. 6pm - 9:15pm at the 44 Trail Armory in Shaverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bench 1990-7th Ave. Contact: Michelle Szabo at 231-5000, michellszabo@hotmail.com

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Rossland News Thursday, May 3, 2012

www.rosslandnews.com A3

News

City discusses RDKB expenses

continued from P. 1 “Particularly for younger people who want to get places and who don’t have cars so we can’t take that away.” She said that the city needs to come up with ways to encourage ridership. Coun. Kathy Wallace, who represents Rossland at the RDKB, noted that Rossland did accept expansion of hours. “So we have more buses coming to Rossland,” she said. “Every night of the week there is a 6:30 p.m. bus. That’s intended to encourage the commuters to take the bus.” Wallace said that the public bus system is needed in the area, noting that it is very expensive. “There is a review of transit and there will be a discussion coming from the East End

to the province to say that urban planning doesn’t fit rural areas,” she said. “That’s part of the difficulty that we have - we have less population, we have greater geographical area, we have 2,000 ft. of elevation coming up this side and 500 ft. going up the other. The buses are determined by the province and that is part of the problem.” Wallace said the city sized buses are full a couple of times a day when kids are off to school. “Other times it is very frustrating watching the big, huge buses drive around with one or two people on them,” she said. Wallace said the City of Trail brought forward a motion recently in response to the private taxi service that would have closed without Trail interceding. She said there were suggestions of a public

taxi service. “We’ve got probably the most expensive taxis in the province and we have to wait a long time for them to come,” she said. Mayor Greg Granstrom pointed out that Rossland pays the regional district about $1.4 million. The regional fire service has almost doubled that of Rossland’s budget to $430 000.Granstrom hoped that the RDKB would endeavour to keep the funds in line. “It might also be interesting to point out that there is a 3.5 per cent increase in taxes from the regional district,” Granstrom said. “They’ve had continual increases. “To me it seems like in a time of fiscal restraint by companies where employees have had to make sacrifices, that same fiscal restraint would be needed at our regional government.”

BEGINNER BOOT-CAMP Have you always wanted to try a boot-camp but you don’t believe you can do it? This is a class for you! Indoor boot-camp with workout stations you can handle. Work at your own level and Lori will be there to encourage you. Does she yell? Yes but you will love the results just in time for summer.

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SD20 will weigh options for Rossland schools

continued from P. 1

assembled in the school’s gymnasium. In less than 20 minutes — with no explanation of the budget’s line items or any debate on the cuts — the board of trustees approved the first two readings of the School District N0. 20 (Kootenay Columbia) annual budget bylaw. The swift passage of the financial document that will see 13.6 full time equivalent staff positions phased out across the board for the coming school year raised the ire of the crowd, and they voiced it when the floor opened for public comment. The lack of debate was a joke, said CUPE Local 1285 shop steward Darlene Schultz, a bus driver expected to have her employment reduced even as she nears retirement. “There may have been debate that happened in private, but there certainly was no debate here tonight. None of the public had any opportunity to have any input in regards to the particular line items,” she told the board. “Nobody likes to cut anything from the budget said Darrel Ganzert, a former teach-

er-librarian himself and the current chair of the SD20 board. He hinted that by “moving money around,” and some give and take on contract issues between the unions and management, some jobs being cut could be saved. He told the crowd there was a possibility of reviewing the proposed cuts. “The budget is a snapshot, it is a budget that shows our intention,” he said. “In some areas we will save the money we are speaking of, and in other areas we might not. There is going to be some flux back and forth.” The job cuts were necessary for the coming year to deal with a $1.55 million operating shortfall in the district — and rising internal costs for sick leave that are now $400,000 over budget — covering a three per cent drop in funding from the Ministry of Education. Cutting the teacher positions meant the district would save $1.17 million in 2012/13, the largest chunk out of the $1.58 million in total cuts made. With custodial staff possibly being cut from 12-month to 11-month employees, the district expecting to save $113,841.

Correction: In the article Cub scouts put their cars to the test, Heather’ last name is Hamer, not Homer. The quote was printed incorrectly and should have read: Isbel Nebel, the provincial guild master of B.C., was there and the cubs were honoured to have her join the rally. “It’s not all about winning, it is also about losing, and it takes a community to raise a child” Heather Hamer said that “The kids are loving it; they’re here to have fun!” The Rossland News apologizes for the errors and will make the best efforts to avoid them in the future. The contact info for Shanna Tanabe is incorrect and should be 362-0063.

the opera Music by Don Macdonald | Libretto by Nicola Harwood

Saturday, May 12, 2012, 7:30 pm

There will also be a district-wide rise in student-to-teacher ratio — from 24-1 to 25-1 — that could impact the electives offered at the high school level. A motion was also passed at the meeting to consider possible reconfiguration or closure of Rossland and Castlegar schools with a decision to be made by Dec. 31, 2012 and implementation in September, 2013. The board will look at making Rossland Secondary School (RSS) kindergarten to Grade 12 and close MacLean Elementary, or make RSS kindergarten to Grade 9, close MacLean, and send RSS grade 10-12 students to J.L. Crowe Secondary in Trail. The board could also make MacLean kindergarten to Grade 7, close RSS, and send RSS grade 8-12 students to J.L. Crowe. If approved at the next board meeting, the budget cuts and changes will take effect July 1. Although the board has acknowledged they will examine the situation for next year, Davidoff said he will be meeting with the CUPE president and DPAC to come up with a model of their own and present it to the board in June.

Make Your Reservations For

Grad Night To be part of our Grad Reservations Feature or to congradulate the GRADS

CHARLES BAILEY THEATRE, TRAIL, BC Tickets available at the Charles Bailey Theatre Box office, 1501 Cedar Avenue, Trail, BC or by phone at 250-368-9669. Adults $25/Seniors and Students $20

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Pet et Of Of The The W Week ee k

On April 14, 2012, we received 9 cats from a farm thatt are now lookingg for their new forever homes. There are 4 neutered maless and 5 females, four of which are waiting to be spayed. All of the cats aree longhaired with many different colors and aree all 5-8 years old. If you are looking to give any of these great cats a second chance at a warm and loving home, you can come to the Trail BCSPCA and meet the 9. You can also contact the Trail BCSPCA at 250-368-5910 and trail@spca.bc.ca

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Editorial

Thursday, May 3, 2012 Rossland News

A4 www.rosslandnews.com

Publisher: Barbara Blatchford Editor: Arne Petryshen Sales: Monika Smutny 2114 Columbia Ave., Rossland 250-362-2183

Good news as local trails still growing

With the Kootenay Columbia Trail Society’s plans to turn the famous Seven Summits bike trail into a 65 km loop, it seems there is still room for mountain biking to progress in an area that is arguably the Mecca of biking. The current Rossland area trail is a tire devouring 30 km one-way trail. Isaac Saban, president of the KCTS said that the extra 24 km, which would connect the city to Nancy Green summit, would cater to those bikers in it for the long distance haul through the forest trails. It would attract an elite level of biker and that can’t hurt the already high standard of riders. The city of Rossland currently contributes $19,000 into the trails, as well as another $14,000 indirectly through the regional district. KCTS has a total budget of about $100,000 Saban said, which comes through donations, membership and other contributions. Saban argued that the KCTS provides great value for money as the $100,000 in funds allows something like 120,000 individual uses of the trails. Rossland contributes something like 30 cents per rider, for trails that, for the most part are easily accessible from Rossland. Not included in the estimate are the people benefiting who walk or bike the trails, since the automated trail counters only pick up metal. That would likely bring the value much higher. The trails around Rossland are a model for others in Western Canada and the world, and that doesn’t look like it will change anytime soon. We want to hear from you.

Letters Policy

The Rossland News welcomes letters to the editor intended for publication but reserves the right to edit for brevity, clarity, legality, accuracy and topicality. Letters should not be more than 300 words long. Anonymous letters will not be published. To assist in veriﬁcation, name, address and telephone number must be supplied, but will not be published. E-MAIL LETTERS TO: reporter@rosslandnews.com DROP OFF/MAIL: 2114 Columbia Ave. Rossland/ Box 970 V0G 1YO Phone: 250-362-2183 Fax: 250-362-2173 The Rossland News is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent within 45 days to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

Is a subsidiary of

Recreation, Education, Community - Rossland Rec Department

Still time for spring programs Lots of great activities, programs, opportunities and events coming up in the next few weeks in Rossland! Check out the Spring Brochure, which can be viewed online at www. rossland.ca and also on Facebook. If you’re a new parent, you might be interested in the Baby Massage classes coming up! Instructor Vanessa Senecal, registered massage therapist and Doula, is offering two classes in the next several weeks. The next one is on Sunday, May 6 from 2-4 p.m. and the last one is on Sunday, June 3 from 2-4 p.m. The classes are held in the Rossland arena lounge, up the exterior stairs at the back of the arena, on Third Avenue. This hands-on workshop will provide parents with the basics of baby massage, which helps babies sleep better, decreases “fussiness” and improves bonding. With bike season upon us, Revolution Cycle is offering several Bike Maintenance Classes in the next few weeks. For youth 9-14 years, there’s a course on Monday, May 7 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. For older teenagers and adults, there’s a Bike Mechanics 101 course on Wednesday, May 16 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Betty Go Hard has several Bike Camps coming up for kids ages 8-12 years. The Beginner Girls Camp starts May 10, on Thursdays from 3-5 p.m. and runs until June 7. The Beginner Boys Camp starts May 8, on Tuesdays from 3-5 p.m. and runs until June 5. There’s also two Intermediate Camps for kids 9-12 years old. For more information, check out the Spring Brochure, on page 8 for a full listing of each of the bike programs.

Little Kid Rugby starts at the beginning of June! If you have a little one, ages 5-9 years who’s interested in running, jumping, throwing and catching games….check out this new, non-contact Rugby program! Kids Rugby training develops and enhances a child’s basic motor skills and focuses on activities which develop balance, co-ordination and agility. Program starts Friday, June 1 from 3:15-4:15 p.m. on the Cooke Avenue field. Roller Fit in the Rossland Arena starts on Tuesday, May 8, from 7:30-9 p.m. and runs until June 26. Each 90 minute class will consist of on-skate dynamic warm ups, cardio, core and upper body strength exercises. Instructor Darlene Jamin (aka Slameron Diaz) will lead you in this fun and energizing total body workout – without all the bruises! This course is for women of all ages, from 13 years and up! Dropin is $12, including HST. Proper safety equipment, including a mouth guard, helmet, shin, elbow and wrist guards and either roller skates or inline skates are mandatory. For more information, please contact Darlene, at darjamin@telus.net Hey Youth! A Life Coaching course is a great addition to your resume and life skills! Check out Psyched for Life Camp for Youth - Mental Toughness, Training and Outdoor Pursuits with Lesley Beatson, PhD leadership coaching and consulting. The highly qualified, experienced leaders will facilitate a weekend of fun and learning that will help lead to your success! Mental training sessions will be facilitated before each activity and

participants will be encouraged to apply skills from sport psychology during activities of choice. Parents are invited to a wrap up portion of the program on Sunday at 2 p.m. for an information and Q&A session to help incorporate newly learned skills into daily life and sport. Dates for the exciting weekend are: May 26 and 27, Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m.-3:15 p.m. Ages 10-13 and 14-17 years (Min. 25 participants) $165. For full program details contact Rossland Recreation at recreation@rossland.ca or 250-3622327. The Teen Boot Camp starts on May 14 and runs until June 20, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:15-4:15 p.m. The course is an energizing, indoor / outdoor fitness workout using high intensity interval training for total body conditioning. Led by Gabrielle Jangula, certified personal trainer. The course runs at MacLean Elementary gym, utilizing the gym, the field and the play space. Shelley Painter’s Adult Multi Media Art program starts soon! The course runs May 28 until June 25 on Mondays from 7-8 p.m. in the Rossland arena lounge. This course is designed to help you improve your art skills – whether it’s drawing, painting or 3D art. Participants will discuss their interests with Shelley and then the following classes will be catered to those goals. The recreation department will be working on the Summer Brochure in the next week…..if you would like to offer a program, please contact our office at 250-362-2327 or by email, at recreation@rossland.ca

Rossland News Thursday, May 3, 2012

Opinion

NOL discusses options put forward recently by School District 20 JENNIFER ELLIS Neighbourhood of Learning

In a special open board meeting April 30, as part of their budget process, the School District 20 passed a motion to “consider possible reconfiguration/closure of Rossland schools with a decision to be made by December 31, 2012 and implementation in September, 2013.” Options to be considered include (but are not limited to): Making Rossland Secondary School K-12 and closing MacLean Elementary; Making RSS K-9, closing MacLean, and sending RSS grade 10-12 students to J.L. Crowe Secondary; and Making MacLean K-7, closing RSS, and sending RSS grade 8-12 students to Crowe Secondary. The Board also gave first and second reading to the Annual Budget Bylaw for 2012-2013. This is both good and bad news for Rossland. On the positive side, it appears that the School Board has been able to balance their budget this year without closing a school. Thus it is not expected that there will be any school closures for the upcoming school year. It also appears that they are listening to Rossland residents in considering K-12 at Rossland Secondary School as a viable option. At the same time, the closure of RSS is still under consideration and will likely be discussed in detail in the fall. This somewhat positive outcome is at least in part linked to the strong views of Rossland residents put forth in school board community meetings in 2011 and the recent Rossland Schools Survey. The Neighbourhood of Learning Committee thanks you for your continued participation in this important issue. Your voices and views will be needed again as this discussion moves forward in the fall. The Rossland Schools Survey highlighted that while the majority of Rossland households strongly support K-12 at RSS. Eighty-five per cent of Rossland households listed this as their first choice for school configurations in

Rossland, presuming that maintaining both an elementary and secondary school in Rossland is unlikely. Seventy-two per cent indicated they were strongly supportive of K-12 at RSS, although the majority of these noted that they are strongly supportive if it is the only way to keep K-12 in the community. The Rossland Schools Survey also indicated that while Rossland residents are supportive of K-12 at RSS, the reconfiguration of Rossland schools will need to be done properly with appropriate separation of younger and older children, a play space for younger children and sufficient renovations to RSS to make it a safe and welcoming place for elementary students. If the board of education maintains an open stance about how education should be configured in Rossland, and undertakes community consultations as part of its deliberations, this could be an exciting time in Rossland as we move forward with considering how a K-12 school should look and operate, and RSS continues to move forward with its personalized learning initiatives. The continued involvement of the community will be necessary to develop and implement a vision of K-12 in Rossland and ensure that the Board has a clear understanding of the perspectives of Rossland residents. Watch for opportunities to get involved and make your views known this fall. In the meantime, the District Parent Advisory Committee is starting a 360 postcard campaign to the Ministry of Education to provide more funding to our School District and underscore the fact that our district receives lower funding per capita than many of the other districts in our region. For only $360 more in funding per student, which is still less than what neighbouring districts receive, School District No. 20 would not have had a budget shortfall this year. Postcards will be sent home in student agendas. Simply sign the postcard and mail it to the Ministry to advocate for more education funding in our district. An online version of the postcard is available at: http://360campaign.wordpress.com/about/

Behind the

Wh ee

Update your Driving Skills and Knowledge

l

School options on the table

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Should My Driving Record be Available to the Public? Yesterday’s edition of the Victoria Times Colonist newspaper contained an article about Justice Minister Shirley Bond considering making the driving record of B.C. drivers public knowledge. The idea is that if conventional methods of convincing drivers to follow the driving rules are not successful, then it is time to ﬁnd other solutions. This one would be aimed at embarrassing a non-compliant driver publicly.

It is definitely an interesting idea that would work if a person considered that a bad driving record would cause them loss of face. I know that I would feel that I had failed if I had a string of convictions out there for the world to see because driving responsibly is important to me. I would even pay to exchange a ticket for formal driving training if I made a mistake, but that’s a story that I’ve already told. Would this make a difference to the motorcycle rider in Saanich who rode through traffic at 299+ km/h and then posted his video recording of it on YouTube? Not likely. Sometimes the only way to prevent a driver like this from endangering us all is to put them in a cage. Even this doesn’t necessarily make a difference in attitude, it may only protect the public from the individual for a time. While we are thinking about this though, may I suggest that we also include National Safety Code records for commercial vehicle misbehaviour available to the public as well? It would be useful information to me when I was trying to decide which taxi company to take a ride with or who to haul my goods. If enough clients did this it could eliminate poor commercial vehicle driving practices and the businesses that allow them. The author is a retired constable with many years of traffic law enforcement experience. To comment or learn more, please visit www.drivesmartbc.ca.

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M thers Day! July 14, 2012

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Adjacent to the Doukhobor Discovery Centre and the Kootenay Gallery Featuring live music, dance, performances and cuisine from the diverse cultures represented in the Kootenay region. Be part of this exciting cultural event! COST: $2.00 Bring a lawn chair and blanket and spend the day on Heritage Way.

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Luv u Mom Feature is coming... just in time for Mother’s Day, Sunday May 13th! Great Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day from your business can be featured & we also welcome any letters or photos of your mom. Deadline for booking is May 1st. Prices are $35 for 2x3 spaces

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spring

Thursday, May 3 , 2012 Rossland News

home garden For homeowners, spring cleaning is one of the annual rites of spring. The return of warmer weather presents the perfect opportunity for homeowners to open the windows, let some fresh air in and tidy up after a few months spent cooped up inside while the weather outside was frightful.

But now that spring has arrived, the time to clean up around the house has come. Homeowners about to start on their annual spring cleaning should consider the following before beginning.

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GIFTS

& BREW SHOP

We make great winemakers!

Spring

Has Arrived For your Home & Garden

Get the right tools

The right tools won Section 0t necessarily be a hammer and nails, but cleaning products that can make spring cleaning more efﬁcient. Rubber gloves, cleaning products (preferably natural products that are good for the environment) and enough garbage bags to discard a winter Section 0s worth of clutter should all be on hand before you begin cleaning. If they Section 0re not, you Section 0ll likely need to make a trip to the store while cleaning, which can be time-consuming and prolong the process.

Take some inventory

Many people have no problem buying new clothes, but they do ﬁnd it hard to get rid of older items. Part of spring cleaning is tossing old items you no longer use, and that includes clothing. Clothing can take up a signiﬁcant amount of space, so take some inventory on your wardrobe and decide which items you want to keep and which ones you can afford to discard or even donate.

2185 Columbia Ave. Rossland

Address the windows

If the last several months have been espe-

Columbia Valley Garden Centre

cially cold or snowy, then you might not have looked out the windows in quite some time. Unfortunately, those windows might have accumulated quite the amount of dirt and grime while you were huddled inside. When washing the windows, do so on a cloudy day, as the sun can actually cause streaking. In addition, be mindful of what you Section 0re using to wipe down the windows post-cleaning. Microﬁber rags typically give windows a great shine without any streaking.

The blinds and drapes will also need to be addressed, as they have likely accumulated some dust over the last few months. Dust the valance and the frame, and wipe the blinds down with a damp cloth. You can also use your vacuum Section 0s upholstery and brush attachments to further clean blinds and drapes.

Tidy up the bed

You likely wash your bed linens regardless of the season. When spring cleaning, toss these linens into the washing machine and don Section 0t forget to wash the mattress pads and bed skirting as well. While those items are in the wash, ﬂip all the mattresses in your household.

Don't forget the kitchen

The kitchen is not immune to clutter, and it Section 0s especially easy for items to overstay their welcome in the refrigerator and the kitchen cabinets. Look for old takeout containers in the refrigerator that have managed to stick around, and throw these out as well as any items that have passed their expiration dates. While items in the kitchen cabinets might not have an expiration date, it helps to remove them from the pantry and then dust and wipe down the shelves. When doing so, discard any items that no longer seem appetizing.

Beat the rugs

Area rugs have no doubt collected dirt and dust over the last several months. Though vacuuming these area rugs might be enough during the year, take advantage of the pleasant weather and take the rugs outside to beat them and rid them of dust and any other particles the vacuum might have missed over the last few months.

Empty and clean the bookshelves

Bookshelves are one the biggest collectors of dust in many homes. Open the windows in the home and then remove books from the shelves. Once the books have been removed, dust the shelves and wipe them down with a damp cloth. And don Section 0t forget to dust the books and reorganize titles before returning them to their newly cleaned shelves. Spring cleaning is something all homeowners must do to keep their homes healthy and clean. Spring cleaning is annual event at many households, and a few simple strategies can make it go much more smoothly.

SPRING at Rossland Hardware

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Check Out Our • Garden Seeds • Cattle Manure • Grass Seed • Sheep Manure • Peat Moss • Patio Mix • Top Soil

• “Urban Hippy Grow-Op” • Patio Sets • Bistro Sets

One of the best things about the dawn of spring and the return of warmer weather is the chance to get out of the house and get some fresh air. For homeowners, this is the perfect opportunity to assess any damage the previous months did to yards and develop a plan restore properties. Don t jump the gun. The first warm day of spring might seem like a great time get out in the yard and get your hands dirty. But it s best to wait until the grass has completely dried out before getting to work. Raking on wet grass increases the risk of tearing out grass, which can cause bald spots and the growth of weeds down the road. In addition, stepping on the grass while the ground is still wet can compact the soil, which can slow drainage and block the lawn s roots from breathing. Patience should prevail with regard to mowing the lawn as well. A lawn s roots will not start to grow until the average everyday temperature routinely reaches 40 F, so mowing too early is both unnecessary and potentially harmful to the lawn. When the temperatures regularly reach 50 F, then homeowners will likely start to see their lawns growing.

Remove debris that s piled up. Debris has a tendency to infest a yard over the course of the winter months. Fallen branches, stones and even trash can accumulate in a yard, putting those who spend time in the yard at risk of injury once the warm weather returns. For instance, bits of twigs and pebbles that are blown across the yard during a windy winter can be embedded in the yard, making

the yard less of a haven and more of a hazard. Once the grass is dry enough to walk on, walk around the property and remove any debris that s piled up over the last few months. Employ a pre-emergent weed killer. Homeowners who routinely spend their summers agonizing over weeds throughout the yard should consider applying a pre-emergent weed killer around the beginning of spring. It s important to do so around the end of March or early April, when the weeds have not yet had a chance to grow. When applying, follow the dosage instructions provided by the product s manufacturer. Such instructions often recommend a second application right before summer begins. Remove thatch. Once the grass has dried, you can begin to remove thatch that s built up over the winter. Thatch is potentially very harmful to soil, blocking sunlight, air and moisture the soil needs to ensure a lawn looks lush and healthy. Thatch removal does not necessarily need to be an annual task. If thatch buildup is insignificant, then it can be done every other year. Just use a dethatching rake to make the job much easier. Aerate, particularly if the yard is a heavy traffic area once the warm weather arrives. If your yard transforms into a child s wonderland upon the arrival of spring and summer, you might want to revive the soil by aerating. When the yard gets heavy usage, it s easy for soil to become compacted, which makes it hard for air and water to reach the lawn s roots. That can eventually make for a less-than-appealing lawn. So if your yard is the place to be come the warmer months, aerate in the spring to loosen the soil and make it easier for the lawn to withstand the months ahead. No matter how harsh the winter months might have been, spring is a great time for homeowners to restore the property around their homes.

Mon-Sat 8-5:30 • Sunday 11-4 Hardware 1990 Columbia Avenue. Rossland

Tips p for a bear aware home & garden: •Store garbage in bear resistant bin •Manage compost so it doesn’t smell •Feed pets indoors •Plant native species that aren’t bears natural food •Protect your fruit & vegetable garden with electric fencing •Pick fruit as soon as it’s ripe •Clean bbq after use •Make bears feel uncomfortable in your yard with motion sensor lights, no dark corners with shrubbery to hide in, make noise to scare them off when they appear

Call the RAPP line to report bear sightings 1-877-952-7277 Visit www.bearaware.bc.ca for more info or contact Sharon at rosslandbearaware@ live.com

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Landscape design and construction, • Chat Sets • Lawn Mowers • Wheel barrows

spring sp

Yard and garden cleanup

Come C ome & s see ee our new look! Furniture, rugs & great garden gift ideas. Trail store expansion & 3 locations to serve you. New varieties of compact shrubs for small spaces.

home o garden 2

Restoring your property after a long winter

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House and home spring cleaning CY EG A

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Rossland News Thursday, May 3 , 2011

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