Agassiz Observer, July 12, 2013 by Black Press Media Group

LINDA & FREDDY MARKS

Friday, July 12, 2013

The Agassiz Y Harrison

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JESSICA PETERS / OBSERVER

INSIDE opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Driver arrested after plaza crash RCMP suspect impaired driving led to accident

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Jessica Peters

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Three members of an Abbotsford family are recovering from a bizarre crash in Harrison Hot Springs on the weekend. The incident occurred at about 1:20 p.m. Sunday, at the main intersection along the beach front, where Hot Springs Road meets Esplanade. RCMP said on Monday morning they are still trying to piece together what happened. A family of four was crossing the intersection at the crowded plaza. A fresh air concert was taking place just metres away, up on the grassy promenade, as part of the Harrison Festival of the Arts. A small car stopped to let the pe-

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SUTTON WEST COAST REALTY HHS

Harry Manx kept his audience enraptured with his unique blend of the blues during a Sunday night concert at Harrison Memorial Hall, as part of the 35th annual Harrison Festival of the Arts. For a guide to what’s on this weekend, and photos from the opening weekend, see page 12.

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destrians pass, but was reportedly rear ended by a Toyota SUV. The SUV then drove over the car, became airborne, and ended up in the concrete plaza. Hundreds of people were in the area at the time, and either witnessed or heard the crash. Many rushed to the scene to investigate. While there was the potential for chaos, Agassiz RCMP Stuart Falebrinza said "a lot of people were there doing all the right things until the emergency responders could arrive." He confirmed the driver of the SUV, a 27-year-old-male, was arrested at the scene and they are proceeding with a charge of impaired driving causing bodily harm. Of

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the three victims, he said they are recovering from their injuries, and that the father, 51, will need surgery. The mother, 37, has serious injuries "but is doing alright." The couple's son, 13, was also hit, but is recovering, Falebrinza said. The couple's 16 year old son managed to jump out of the way of the vehicles. He said police are still trying to determine the exact details of the crash. While there were many witnesses, "everyone sees things slightly differently." "But we have some really good evidence," he said. “With several hundred people reported to be in the area, we are thankful that the family survived

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and no one else was injured or killed,” added Cst. Cynthia Kershaw. According to witnesses, the SUV first pushed a BMW into a family crossing the road. Witnesses were quick to jump into action to help at the scene, directing traffic, offering water and towels, and comfort. "It was a great day for acts of kindness," Veronique Castles wrote on this newspaper's Facebook page. Rebecca Schram was watching the concert at the time of the crash, and noted that many people were still in shock from what they witnessed the following day. "It was a shocking and disturbing scene and brought out many emotions from those who witnessed it," she said.

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2 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, July 12, 2013

News

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Farmer fears bears attacked chicken coop

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Jessica Peters THE OBSERVER

A local farmer is warning residents that a bear is roaming her neighbourhood â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Â closer than ever before. Kate Onos-Gilbert woke up Wednesday to find her chicken house raided, and the fence surrounding it destroyed. Even worse, 15 of the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage chickens were missing. At first, Onos-Gilbert thought the poultry was stolen. But upon further investigation, it became obvious the intruder was looking for a late night meal. She has found 10 of the carcasses, and is hoping to keep her last 10 chickens safe. She said bears have never wandered that close to their house before, and has called to inform the conservation officer. They wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get involved until it becomes more of a nuisance to humans, she said.

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Still, she wanted to warn the community that local bears may be coming closer to residential areas now. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It might be good to warn people that there is at least one bear around here as lots of people walk on the dike off McDonald (in Agassiz),â&#x20AC;? she said. Normally, she added, bears hang around the corn fields. BC Parks has numerous tips on staying bear safe in the country. They advise to always keep children nearby and in sight and to keep pets leashed. If a bear is spotted, they advise making a wide detour and leavinge the area immediately. Also, watch for bear signs: tracks, droppings, overturned rocks, rotten trees torn apart, clawed, bitten or rubbed trees, bear trails, fresh diggings or trampled vegetation. The Bear Aware program says that on average 500 black bears and 40 grizzlies are killed every year in B.C. and most of these deaths are preventable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bears are always seeking food and our communities provide them with good foraging opportunities. Bears can smell garbage and rotting fruit from kilometres away,â&#x20AC;? the website states. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Furthermore bears learn quickly, and remember where they have found food in the past. Once a bear is â&#x20AC;&#x153;rewardedâ&#x20AC;? for coming into town it will return. They become accustomed to the presence of humans (â&#x20AC;&#x153;habituatedâ&#x20AC;?) and â&#x20AC;&#x153;food conditionedâ&#x20AC;? to eating garbage, fruit, pet food, bird seed, compost and other attractants. The more often they return, the more bold they become.â&#x20AC;? To report a problem bear, call 1-877-9527277. news@ahobserver.com

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, July 12, 2013 3

News

HHS families brought into Kent’s economic access plan Jessica Peters THE OBSERVER

BUCKLEY

Families and individuals with lower incomes in Harrison Hot Springs will soon be able to access recreational programs at a reduced rate in the District of Kent. The recreation department in Kent provides a wide range of activities, from soccer to

yoga programs, an outdoor pool and full gym. Residents of Kent can already apply for the “economic access program,” but the program was not available for residents of Harrison, meaning some people who have applied have been turned down in the past. However, at Monday

night’s council meeting, Harrison Coun. John Buckley put forward a motion that the Village also join the program. Council was unanimously in favour of joining the program, which will require a $2,000 payment from the Village to the District. It’s a good move for the

Village, Buckley said, adding “this will help some people out.” Currently, the economic access program helps out families with lower incomes, and gives them special opportunities to register in programs. For example, family members can sign up for two programs per year at a 50 per

cent reduced rate. Applications are kept confidential. No date was given for when the program would open to Harrison residents. Coun. Buckley is the Village’s liaison for the Healthy Communities committee. news@ahobserver.com

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Concerts in the Park

every Saturday in Memorial Park, Hope from 12 noon to 2 pm

July 13 • Taylor Bellows Award winning young Hope singer • The Four Tunes ~ Agassiz/Hope group • Thomas Jones ~ singer/guitar player • Hope Community Choir

July 20 JESSICA PETERS / OBSERVER

• Kazemon ~ (“Wind gate”)

Story Time in the Park featured a couple of superstars on Wednesday morning, as the group Bobs n Lolo performed for a very enthusiastic crowd. Story Time in the Park runs every Wednesday in July at 11 a.m. in Pioneer Park, and moves to Harrison Hot Springs on Wednesdays in August.

Traffic fines returned to communities

Staff Writer

THE OBSERVER

Each year, money collected from traffic fines is returned to communities to help pay for their policing costs. In the Fraser Valley communities spanning from Chilliwack to Hope, that adds up to just over $1.25 million this year. The funds are given back as part of the Strategic Community Investment Fund. In the District of Kent, this year's amount is $260,872. In Harrison Hot Springs, the grant was worth $150,861

and in the Fraser Valley Regional District, $33,127. "These community grants are great for Hope and Harrison Hot Springs; they can mean the difference between maintaining some of their priority projects and dropping them," said Laurie Throness, MLA for ChilliwackHope. "I am happy to see so many Fraser Valley communities receiving this funding." Chilliwack recieved $520,183 this year and Hope received $289,474. This is not a new funding source, and is portioned out based

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on each community's contribution to total municipal policing costs. It is intended to help communities which pay for their own municipal policing costs. Chilliwack's MLA John Martin added that the program is helping "keep streets safe." Since 2009, the Strategic Community Investment Fund (SCIF) has provided over $600 million in funding to support B.C. communities and enable them to invest money in projects that are identified at the local level as a priority.

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4 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, July 12, 2013

News

Fire, injuries, car accidents keep fire fighters busy The Agassiz Fire Department has seen multiple callouts for the month of June, says Chief Wayne Dyer. On June 1, AFD assisted the BC Ambulance Service for an unconscious, unresponsive male with head injuries. AFD assisted with the injured male and helped prepare him with BCAS.

On June 13 AFD again was called to assist BCAS with a diabetic patient, and on June 15 they again assisted BCAS to help move a patient out of an apartment building. They also had a callout on June 16, for a hand glider that crashed into a tree, causing a single male glider to fall 50 feet to

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the ground. Upon arrival the AFD helped to stabilize the patient and proceeded to help BCAS load the patient into the awaiting ambulance. An elderly female was struck on her scooter by a van backing out of a parking stall near Subway. The fire department was first on scene and provided medical aid prior to the ambulance arriving. On that same call AFD was asked to check the leg on an 11-year-old girl who took a fall camping. Much to the perseverance of the young lady that she was fine, the parent was advised stitches were required and off to hospital they went. There was a two vehicle motor vehicle accident at the Tea Cup. Although there were only minor injuries, the fire depart-

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Agassiz firefighters worked with Popkum Fire Dept. to knock down a house fire at Ashton Road. The house was vacant, but the fire is being treated as suspicious.

ment was required to stop the vehicles’ fluid from running into

the ditches preventing any contaminates to get into nearby wa-

PUBLIC NOTICE

RECALL AND INITIATIVE ACT

This notice is published pursuant to section 4 of the Recall and Initiative Act. Approval in principle has been granted on an application for an initiative petition. The petition will be issued to proponent Dana Larsen on Monday, September 9, 2013 and signature sheets must be submitted to the Chief Electoral Officer by Monday, December 9, 2013. The Title of the Initiative is: An initiative to amend the Police Act. Summary of Initiative: The initiative draft Bill entitled, “Sensible Policing Act” proposes to amend the Police Act to no longer use provincial police resources on the enforcement of current laws in relation to simple possession and use of cannabis by adults. The draft law would prohibit the use of provincial police resources for this purpose, would require police to report in detail to the Minister of Justice any actual use of resources for this purpose and why it was necessary, and require the Minister to publish that report. The Bill also proposes that the province would call upon the Federal Government to repeal the federal prohibition on cannabis, or give British Columbia an exemption, such that British Columbia is able to tax and regulate cannabis similar to the regulation of alcohol and tobacco. As well it proposes that British Columbia shall establish a Provincial Commission to study the means and requirements necessary for the province to establish a legal and regulated model for the production and use of cannabis by adults. Last, the Bill would make non-lawful possession and use of cannabis by minors an offence similar to possession and use of alcohol.

Initiative Advertising: Individuals or organizations who sponsor initiative advertising, other than the proponent and registered opponents, must register with the Chief Electoral Officer before they conduct or publish initiative advertising. Registration applications are available from Elections BC. Who May Sign the Petition: Registered voters as of Monday, September 9, 2013 may sign the initiative petition. Individuals may only sign the petition once, and must sign the petition sheet for the electoral district in which they are registered at the time of signing. Signed petitions are available for public inspection. For More Information: The initiative application and draft Bill are available for public inspection on the Elections BC website and at the Elections BC office at the address below. Location: Suite 100 – 1112 Fort Street, Victoria, B.C Mailing Address: PO Box 9275 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria, BC V8W 9J6 Phone: Toll-free: Fax: Email: Website:

250-387-5305 1-800-661-8683 250-387-3578 electionsbc@elections.bc.ca elections.bc.ca

Opponent Registration: Individuals or organizations who intend to incur expenses as opponents must apply for registration with the Chief Electoral Officer by Monday, August 12, 2013. Registration applications for opponents are available from Elections BC.

elections.bc.ca / 1 - 8 0 0 - 6 6 1 - 8 6 8 3

ter sources. A female driver had misjudged a corner and landed on the grass. The driver was assessed for any injuries and was left with the RCMP officer on scene. June also had five burning complaints from various parts of the District, Dyer reports. “The community is reminded that you do require a permit to burn and it has to be ready if required to show it,” he said. “Any questions on a permit or fire regulations on when and where you can have a fire, you can call the AFD or the district of Kent for information.” AFD had a report of visible smoke and fire in the vicinity of Mt. Woodside. Agassiz RCMP called AFD out to a single vehicle that left the roadway. Arriving on scene, firefighters were faced with the vehicle smoking heavily and oil and fuel leaking into the nearby ditches. AFD first controlled traffic and then took care of the fluids before any damage to the nearby water filled ditches occurred. Firefighters were paged out early Sat., June 29, for a fully involved structure fire on Lougheed and Ashton. When they arrived fire was already venting through the roof. Popkum Fire Dept.

was called in to assist Agassiz and the crews working together quickly contained the blaze. The fire is being treated as suspicious and anyone who any information is asked to call the Agassiz fire department or the Agassiz RCMP. The department had a callout that same day for an ATV rollover up east Harrison Forest Service Road. They were met just off the main road to a young child with serious injuries. The child was air lifted to Chilliwack. They left to head another 13 kilometers up east Harrison where the mother was still laying on the side of the road with injuries. BCAS arrived there and also took the patient to Chilliwack. Finally, on Sunday, June 30, AFD were called to an MVA involving a motorcycle and a van. The motorcyclist was transported to Chilliwack by BCAS with non life threatening injuries. Dyer offers this reminder to all drivers of motor vehicles: “As the roads get busier for summer, when you see emergency crews on the roads please slow down and watch for directions from the emergency crews. As summer kicks off lets buckle up slow down and get to where we are going safely.”

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, July 12, 2013 5

Choosing a Daycare The Early Years of a child’s life are vital dŚĞ ĐĂƌĞ ĂŶĚ ĞĂƌůǇ ůĞĂƌŶŝŶŐ ŽƉƉŽƌƚƵŶŝƟ ĞƐ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ƌĞĐĞŝǀĞ ŝŶ ƋƵĂůŝƚǇ ĐŚŝůĚ ĐĂƌĞ ƐĞƫ ŶŐƐ ŚĞůƉƐ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉ ƉŚǇƐͲ ŝĐĂůůǇ͕ ŝŶƚĞůůĞĐƚƵĂůůǇ͕ ĞŵŽƟ ŽŶĂůůǇ ĂŶĚ ƐŽĐŝĂůůǇ͘ ƋƵĂůŝƚǇ ĐŚŝůĚ ĐĂƌĞ ƐĞƫ ŶŐ ŚĞůƉƐ ƚŽ ƉƌĞƉĂƌĞ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ĨŽƌ ƐĐŚŽŽů͕ ĂŶĚ ĞŶĂďůĞƐ ƉĂƌĞŶƚƐ ƚŽ ǁŽƌŬ Žƌ ƐƚƵĚǇ ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĐŚŝůĚ ŝƐ ǁĞůů ĐĂƌĞĚ ĨŽƌ͘ ^ĐŝĞŶƟ ƐƚƐ ĂŶĚ ƌĞƐĞĂƌĐŚĞƌƐ ĂƌŽƵŶĚ ƚŚĞ ǁŽƌůĚ ƐƵŐŐĞƐƚ ƚŚĂƚ ƚŚĞ ďƌĂŝŶ ŐƌŽǁƚŚ ĂŶĚ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ŽĨ ŝŶĨĂŶƚƐ ĂŶĚ ǇŽƵŶŐ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ŝƐ ĚĞĞƉůǇ Ăī ĞĐƚĞĚ ďǇ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĞĂƌůǇ ĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞƐ͘ WŽƐͲ ŝƟ ǀĞ ĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞƐ ĞĂƌůǇ ŝŶ Ă ĐŚŝůĚ͛Ɛ ůŝĨĞ ŚĂǀĞ ďĞĞŶ ƐŚŽǁŶ ƚŽ ŚĂǀĞ ĂŶ ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ ŝŵƉĂĐƚ ŽŶ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ͕ ĂŶĚ ŚĞůƉ ƚŚĞŵ ƚŽ ƐƵĐĐĞĞĚ ůĂƚĞƌ ŝŶ ůŝĨĞ͘ dŚŝƐ ŝƐ ƚŚĞ Ɵ ŵĞ ǁŚĞŶ ƉĂƌĞŶƚƐ͕ ĐĂŶ ŚĞůƉ ƚŽ ƐĞƚ ƚŚĞ ĨŽƵŶĚĂƟ ŽŶ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛Ɛ ůŝĨĞůŽŶŐ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ͘ YƵĂůŝƚǇ ŚŝůĚ ĂƌĞ ŝƐ ďƵŝůƚ ŽŶ ĐŽͲŽƉĞƌĂƟ ŽŶ ĂŶĚ ƚƌƵƐƚ͕ ĂŶĚ ůĞĂĚƐ ƚŽ ƌĞǁĂƌĚŝŶŐ ƌĞůĂƟ ŽŶƐŚŝƉƐ ŝŶǀŽůǀŝŶŐ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͕ ƉĂƌĞŶƚƐ ĂŶĚ ĐĂƌĞ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƌƐ͘ ĂƌĞ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƌƐ ƐŚŽƵůĚ ŐĞŶƵŝŶĞůǇ ůŝŬĞ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͖ ƵŶĚĞƌƐƚĂŶĚ ƚŚĞŝƌ Ěŝī ĞƌĞŶĐĞƐ͖ ďĞ ĂďůĞ ƚŽ ƌĞĐŽŐŶŝǌĞ ďĞŚĂǀŝŽƵƌ ƚŚĂƚ ŝŶĚŝĐĂƚĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ Ă ĐŚŝůĚ ŶĞĞĚƐ ŚĞůƉ͖ ďĞ ĂǁĂƌĞ ŽĨ ĐƵůƚƵƌĂů ĂŶĚ ƌĞůŝŐŝŽƵƐ ĚŝǀĞƌƐŝƚǇ͖ ĂŶĚ ƐŚŽƵůĚ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞ ƐƟ ŵƵͲ ůĂƟ ŶŐ ĂĐƟ ǀŝƟ ĞƐ ĚĞƐŝŐŶĞĚ ĨŽƌ Ěŝī ĞƌĞŶƚ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛Ɛ ĂŐĞ ŐƌŽƵƉƐ͕ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚƐ ĂŶĚ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚĂů ůĞǀĞůƐ͘ ƋƵĂůŝƚǇ ĐŚŝůĚ ĐĂƌĞ ĂƌƌĂŶŐĞŵĞŶƚ ŚĂƐ ĐĂƌĞ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƌƐ ǁŚŽ ŶƵƌƚƵƌĞ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛Ɛ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŵĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞ ĂŶ ĞŶǀŝƌŽŶͲ ment that: ͻ ŚĂƐ Ă ŚĂƉƉǇ͕ ƌĞůĂǆĞĚ ĂƚŵŽƐƉŚĞƌĞ͖ ͻ ĞŶƐƵƌĞƐ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ĂƌĞ ǁĞůů ƐƵƉĞƌǀŝƐĞĚ͕ ƐĂĨĞ ĂŶĚ ƐĞĐƵƌĞ͖ ͻ ĚĞŵŽŶƐƚƌĂƚĞƐ ƉŽƐŝƟ ǀĞ ďĞŚĂǀŝŽƵƌ ŐƵŝĚĂŶĐĞ͖ ͻ ŝƐ ǁĞůů ƉůĂŶŶĞĚ ĂŶĚ ŝŶǀŝƟ ŶŐ͖ ͻ ƉƌŽŵŽƚĞƐ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛Ɛ ƐĞůĨͲĞƐƚĞĞŵ ĂŶĚ ŝŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶĐĞ͖ ͻ Žī ĞƌƐ ĂŐĞͲĂƉƉƌŽƉƌŝĂƚĞ ƐƟ ŵƵůĂƟ ŶŐ ĂĐƟ ǀŝƟ ĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ ŚĞůƉ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ůĞĂƌŶ ĂŶĚ ŐƌŽǁ͗ ͻ ŝƐ ĐůĞĂŶ͕ ŚĞĂůƚŚǇ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŵĨŽƌƚĂďůĞ͖ ͻ ŚĂƐ ƋƵŝĞƚ ƐƉĂĐĞ ĨŽƌ ƌĞƐƚ Žƌ ƐůĞĞƉ͖ ͻ Žī ĞƌƐ Ă ƌĂŶŐĞ ŽĨ ďŽŽŬƐ͕ ĐƌĞĂƟ ǀĞ ŵĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐ͕ ƚŽǇƐ ĂŶĚ ďŽƚŚ ŝŶĚŽŽƌ ĂŶĚ ŽƵƚĚŽŽƌ ƉůĂǇ ĂƌĞĂƐ ĂŶĚ ͻ ĞŶĐŽƵƌĂŐĞƐ ƉĂƌĞŶƚƐ ƚŽ ďĞĐŽŵĞ ŝŶǀŽůǀĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͛Ɛ ĐĂƌĞ͘ WĂƌĞŶƚƐ ĐĂŶ ƌĞĐŽŐŶŝǌĞ ƋƵĂůŝƚǇ ĐŚŝůĚ ĐĂƌĞ ďǇ ůŽŽŬͲ ŝŶŐ ĨŽƌ ĐŚĂƌĂĐƚĞƌŝƐƟ ĐƐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƐĞƫ ŶŐ ĂŶĚ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƌ ƚŚĂƚ ǁŝůů ŚĞůƉ ĞŶƐƵƌĞ ƚŚĞ ǁĞůůͲďĞŝŶŐ ŽĨ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͕ ĂŶĚ ďǇ ĂƐŬŝŶŐ ƋƵĞƐƟ ŽŶƐ ƚŽ ĨĞĞů ĐŽŶĮ ĚĞŶƚ ƚŚĂƚ ƚŚĞŝƌ ĐŚŝůĚ ŝƐ ǁĞůů ĐĂƌĞĚ ĨŽƌ͘

The First Call ĞŐŝŶ ǇŽƵƌ ĐĂůů ďǇ ĚĞƐĐƌŝďŝŶŐ ǇŽƵƌ ƐŝƚƵĂƟ ŽŶ ĂŶĚ ŶĞĞĚƐ͘ YƵĞƐƟ ŽŶƐ ǇŽƵ ŵŝŐŚƚ ǁĂŶƚ ƚŽ ĂƐŬ ŝŶ ƚŚŝƐ Į ƌƐƚ ƉŚŽŶĞ ĐĂůů ŵĂǇ include: ͻ ƌĞ ǇŽƵ ůŝĐĞŶƐĞĚ ƵŶĚĞƌ ƚŚĞ ŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ ĂƌĞ ĂŶĚ ƐƐŝƐƚĞĚ >ŝǀŝŶŐ Đƚ͍ ʹ /Ĩ ǇŽƵ ĂƌĞ ůŝĐĞŶƐĞĚ͕ ĐĂŶ / ƐĞĞ Ă ĐŽƉǇ Žƌ ǇŽƵƌ ŵŽƐƚ ƌĞĐĞŶƚ ŝŶƐƉĞĐƟ ŽŶ ƌĞƉŽƌƚ͍ /Ɛ ǇŽƵƌ ƉƌŽŐƌĂŵ ĐƵƌƌĞŶƚůǇ ƵŶĚĞƌ ŝŶǀĞƐƟ Ͳ ŐĂƟ ŽŶ ďǇ ƚŚĞ ůŽĐĂů ŚĞĂůƚŚ ĂƵƚŚŽƌŝƚǇ͍ ʹ /Ĩ ǇŽƵ ĂƌĞ ŶŽƚ ůŝĐĞŶƐĞĚ͕ ĂƌĞ ǇŽƵ ƌĞŐŝƐƚĞƌĞĚ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞ ůŽĐĂů ŚŝůĚ ĂƌĞ ZĞƐŽƵƌĐĞ ĂŶĚ ZĞĨĞƌƌĂů ƉƌŽŐƌĂŵ͍ ͻ ,Žǁ ŵĂŶǇ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ĚŽ ǇŽƵ ĐĂƌĞ ĨŽƌ͍ ͻ tŚĂƚ ĂŐĞƐ ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ŝŶ ǇŽƵƌ ĐĂƌĞ͍ ͻ tŚĂƚ ĂƌĞ ǇŽƵƌ ŚŽƵƌƐ ŽĨ ŽƉĞƌĂƟ ŽŶ͍ tŚĂƚ ĚĂǇƐ ĂƌĞ ǇŽƵ ĐůŽƐĞĚ͍ ͻ tŚĂƚ ĂƌĞ ǇŽƵƌ ĨĞĞƐ͍ tŚĂƚ ŝƐ ǇŽƵƌ ƌĞĨƵŶĚ ƉŽůŝĐǇ͍ ͻ tŚĂƚ ĐŚŝůĚ ĐĂƌĞ ĞǆƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞͬƚƌĂŝŶŝŶŐ ĚŽ ǇŽƵ ;Žƌ ĂŶǇ ŽƚŚĞƌ ĐĂƌĞ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƌƐͿ ŚĂǀĞ͍ ͻ Ž ǇŽƵ ĂĐĐĞƉƚ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ǁŚŽ ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞ ĞǆƚƌĂ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ͍ ͻ tŚĂƚ ĚŽ ǇŽƵ ĚŽ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ŽǀĞƌ Ă ƚǇƉŝĐĂů ĚĂǇͬ ǁĞĞŬ͍ ͻ ĂŶ ǇŽƵ ŐŝǀĞ ŵĞ Ăƚ ůĞĂƐƚ ƚǁŽ ƌĞĨĞƌĞŶĐĞƐ͕ ƉƌĞĨĞƌĂďůǇ ŽĨ ƉĂƌĞŶƚƐ ǁŚŽƐĞ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ĂƩ ĞŶĚ ǇŽƵƌ ĐŚŝůĚ ĐĂƌĞ ƐĞƫ ŶŐ͍ ͻ tŚŽ ƐƵƉƉůŝĞƐ ĚŝĂƉĞƌƐͬďůĂŶŬĞƚƐͬŵĞĂůƐͬƐŶĂĐŬƐ ʹ ƉĂƌĞŶƚ Žƌ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƌ͍ ͻ tŚĂƚ ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ĂƌƌĂŶŐĞŵĞŶƚƐ ĨŽƌ ǁŚĞŶ ǇŽƵ ;Žƌ ŽƚŚĞƌ ĐĂƌĞ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƌƐͿ ĂƌĞ ŝůů͕ ŽŶ ŚŽůŝĚĂǇ͕ Žƌ ŝŶ ĐĂƐĞ ŽĨ ĞŵĞƌŐĞŶĐǇ͍ ͻ Ž ǇŽƵ ĞŶĐŽƵƌĂŐĞ ƉĂƌĞŶƚ ŝŶǀŽůǀĞŵĞŶƚ͍ ĂŶ / ǀŝƐŝƚ ǁŚĞŶͲ ĞǀĞƌ / ǁŝƐŚ͍ ͻ ŽĞƐ ĂŶǇŽŶĞ ŝŶ ǇŽƵƌ ĐŚŝůĚ ĐĂƌĞ ƐĞƫ ŶŐ ƐŵŽŬĞ͍ ;EŽƚĞ͗ ^ŵŽŬŝŶŐ ŝƐ ŶŽƚ ƉĞƌŵŝƩ ĞĚ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ƉƌĞŵŝƐĞƐ ŽĨ ůŝĐĞŶƐĞĚ ĨĂĐŝůŝƟ ĞƐ ǁŚĞŶ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ĂƌĞ ƉƌĞƐĞŶƚͿ͘ ͻ tŚĞŶ ĐĂŶ / ĐŽŵĞ ǀŝƐŝƚ ǇŽƵƌ ĐĞŶƚĞƌ͍ ĂŶ / ďƌŝŶŐ ŵǇ ĐŚŝůĚ͍

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6 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, July 12, 2013

Opinion QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Time to heal There is no question that the crash at Harrison Hot Springs on Sunday afternoon was a traumatic event to witness. The sight of three people, including a child, being run down by a vehicle is one that will likely live on in the minds of the many witnesses forever. Just as the victims will need time to recover, so will those who saw the crash unfold before their eyes. By Sunday night, there were stories being shared with friends and strangers – in the streets, in restaurants, on the beach and even online. Some said they were left feeling helpless, and others were visibly upset and crying. There were many who chose not to get involved, deciding quite rightly that a crowd around an accident scene helps nobody, and that they did not wish to witness whatever horrors were awaiting.

Is enough being done to keep impaired drivers off the streets? To answer, go to the Home page of our website: www.ahobserver.com

There are also reports of witnesses who became hostile. Some were angry with photographers trying to take capture the news as it happened, and others were furious with the driver of the SUV. That man was arrested on scene, and most who were on scene have admitted there was something impairing him. But this is Canada, after all, and we have a justice system that needs to slowly churn its wheels. So only time will tell what will come of this horrible scene. This newspaper will be following this story as the accused faces his charge of impaired driving. In the meantime, those who witnessed the accident could have a long road ahead as they try to forget what they saw. Hopefully, though, not before they are asked to recall the event to help Madame Justice close the case.

LAST WEEK WE ASKED:

Has the cost of fuel changed your summer travel plans? Here’s how you responded: Yes 47% No 53%

Get ready for Hydro rate hikes B.C. VIEWS Tom Fletcher VICTORIA – There’s a new sheriff in town for BC Hydro, and it didn’t take long for the political range war to resume. The new sheriff, Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett, found himself on the barricades as soon as he got the hugely complex responsibility for energy and mines. His saddlebags bulge with reports on BC Hydro’s seemingly runaway costs, along with Premier Christy Clark’s “core review” to cut $50 million a year from government operations. NDP energy critic John Horgan highlighted the latest BC Hydro troubles in his assault on the B.C. Liberal budget. First there was a $140 million cost overrun on the Northwest Transmission

Line, under construction north from Terrace to the tiny Tahltan village of Iskut and adjacent mine properties. Then BC Hydro revealed results of an audit of its earthquake preparedness. “Condition red” was the key message. Basically, the sprawling utility has disaster plans for each of its dams or other power facilities, but no overall way to get the provincial power grid back up after a major earthquake. Horgan recited his list of BC Hydro sins after a decade of meddling by the BC Liberals: huge deferred debt revealed by the Auditor General, enormous liabilities for private power contracts, and more rate increases that Bennett has already admitted are on the way. And now they can’t even keep us safe from the big one. Bennett fired back. About $2 billion of that debt is for seismic upgrades for the 80-year-old

The Agassiz Y Harrison

Ruskin Dam in Maple Ridge, and the equally frail John Hart Dam on the Campbell River, built with wooden water pipes. Major BC Hydro works slowed down after completion of Revelstoke and

“The newly updated budget tells us this annual ‘dividend’ is past $500 million and rising fast” Mica dams in the 1980s, and now the work is more expensive. The Northwest Transmission Line is a partnership with Imperial Metals, which wants to power its Red Chris copper-gold-silver mine. Bennett said the company is not only paying for the last section to Iskut and the mine site, but pitching in for the main line as well. Ottawa paid $130 million

P.O. Box 129 7167 Pioneer Ave. Agassiz, B.C. V0M 1A0 Phone: 604-796-4300 | Fax: 604-796-2081 www.ahobserver.com

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to get remote communities off decades of dependence on diesel generators. AltaGas, owner of one of those private power projects in the region, puts in $180 million to get connected to the grid. The line will open up more mining and hydro possibilities. The cost overrun traces back mainly to the shortage of highskill labour such as geotechnical engineering that the remote region already faces. And this is before natural gas pipelines and LNG plants gear up. Bennett takes over from the last sheriff, Rich Coleman, who put BC Hydro through the wringer in 2011. Coleman soon abandoned his idea of putting off the Ruskin and John Hart upgrades (again) to keep rates low through the election, and saw the B.C. Utilities Commission jack up the rate increase to seven per cent to help slow the ballooning debt. OFFICE HOURS Tues.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Sat., Sun., & Mon.

What’s ahead for rates? The utility is looking for 32 per cent in the next three years, says energy lawyer David Austin. He calculates that only 2.5 per cent is attributable to increased private power costs. Among other things, BC Hydro needs regional emergency centres capable of functioning after a Japan-sized quake, plus expansion. Bennett came clean on another reason for rate increases – the government’s increasing dependence on taking a “dividend” as BC Hydro’s lone “shareholder.” The newly updated budget tells us this annual “dividend” is past $500 million and rising fast: $545 million this year, $611 million next year and $684 million the year after. Tom Fletcher is legislative reporter and columnist for Black Press and BCLocalnews.com tfletcher@blackpress.ca

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Published at Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, Popkum/Bridal Falls, Rosedale and surrounding areas by the Black Press Group Ltd. Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #116572 Copyright and/or property rights subsist in all material appearing in this issue. The publisher shall not be liable for minor changes or errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement. The publisher’s liability for other errors or omissions is limited to publication of the advertisement in a subsequent issue or refund of monies paid for the advertisement.

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Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, July 12, 2013 7

Mailbag Trailer breakdown leads to small town hospitality I would like to recognize two members of your business community. My wife and I were taking a short visit near your community on the July long weekend. Friday June 28 we had a breakdown with our travel trailer. As this is not our home town, we were concerned if we could get this problem rectified and be able to continue on with our camping trip with some friends up at Wood lake. After calling BCAA who recommended Modern Tire and Towing, we were able to get our trailer to their shop that day. Being a long weekend, we expected our trailer would not be fixed until Tuesday. The people at this place took exceptional care of us. My wife and I had to run to Abbotsford for the parts but that was a small part of what had to be done. They treated us as family by offering

us their back lot to stay in overnight. The next morning my wife and I got up and went for breakfast. We went to a beautiful place called the Oasis. Great food great service and great people. We will be back. When we got back to Modern at 9:30 Saturday morning, our trailer was fixed. On a July long weekend and being a Saturday, I did not expect to get back on the road so quickly. Their service was beyond what I would have expected but did truly appreciate. My wife and I would like to thank Modern Tire and Towing for the exceptional service. We are telling everybody about our experience and how much help they gave us. And don't forget the Oasis for some food. They have a great eggs benny. Steve and Dawn (Last name withheld by request) Langley, B.C.

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Overly loud motorcycles should be taken off road

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The reputation of many of those motorcycle riders who take part in the run to Harrison recently isn't in doubt, so that isn't my complaint. It's their reamed out mufflers that are making me snap. Let's be blunt, science shoots down the idea that loud pipes saves lives. As I write this letter, there has been a great number of loud motorcycles going by with altered exhausts and not a check point in sight to have them pulled off the road for inspection. Claims that these pipes save lives are no more than anecdotal at best. It's basic science 101 that sounds do not travel forward. You do not hear bikes coming at you. You do not hear bikes coming up behind you until they

pass, often with ear-shattering noise. These motorcycles need to be pulled off the road and corked, because science says they do damage with their extreme decibel levels. Everyone's right to peace and quiet is backed by science even if it isn't by politicians and law enforcement. It's a sad fact that the majority of people will have to be content to suffer, not in silence, but in health-damaging racket which is so unnecessary and unjustifiable, and without one shred of actual science backing the argument to the contrary that loud pipes save lives. Robert T. Rock Mission

FEEDBACK, COMMENTS AND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CAN BE SUBMITTED BY EMAIL: NEWS@AHOBSERVER.COM

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Sudoku July 12, 2013 Intermediate Level

See answers in Classifieds.

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Rave Reviews... After falling head over hooves in love with Giselle, Elliot’s road to the altar takes a slight Office Hours 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday closed Mondays Deadlines advertising: 4:00 pm Friday classifieds: 4:00 pm Tuesday

604.796.4300 | TF: 1.866.865.4460 7167 Pioneer Ave In print every Friday or see us online 24/7: ahobserver.com

detour when Mr. Weenie is kidnapped by a group of pampered pets determined to return him to his owners.

The Observer, Petro’s Pizza, and The Video Station are inviting kids up to the age of 12 years to join the Observer Fun Club. When your name appears in this section, come in to the Observer office within 2 weeks with this clipping & you will receive:

• a FREE PIZZA from Pizza Plus • a FREE MOVIE rental from the Video Station • a FREE BOOK from the Agassiz Public Library upon presenting the birthday letter to them.

The Agassiz Y Harrison

8 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, July 12, 2013

Sports

Aquanauts find success at Chilliwack meet Many personal bests attained by swimmers Sue Lawrence

FOR THE OBSERVER

When you think of kids, water and hot summer days you usually think about kids playing and splashing about at the beach or the local outdoor pool. But for 23 of the 44 Agassiz Harrison Aquanaut swimmers this past weekend (July 6 and 7), water and hot summer days meant working hard competing at the Chilliwack swim meet. Coaches Jen and Rachel have really done their job well as most of the swimmers attained best times in many of their events. There were several top place finishes in the finals. In the 50 backstroke nine year olds, Dana Stoeckly and Nicola James followed each other to the finish line winning a second place

for Dana and a third place for Nicola. Jayden Lees,12, won two third place ribbons for 50 fly and 50 free. Taylor Lees matched her sister’s wins with a second place in 50 fly and third in 50 free plus a third place in 100 freestyle. Justine Stoeckly also did well in 50 free and won a third place finish. Alex Schwichtenberg came third in 100 breast. Fifteen year old Nashon Douglas is an impressive powerhouse swimmer when he races so naturally he came in first place in 50 free and 50 fly, He also came second in 100 free in his age division. After all the heats were completed each day, the team had their relay swims. The freestyle relay event is made of four swimmers each doing 50 m of

Top photo: Logan Sparkes helped the Div. 6 boys freestyle relay team earn second place in Chilliwack last weekend. Middle: Anton Stoeckly, Philip Schwichtenberg, Patrick Sparkes, Logan Sparkes celebrate their achievements with a fun group photo. Bottom: Dana Stoeckly, Brooklyn McMullin, Indiana McMullin and Bronwen Wheeler with assistant coach Taylor Lee.

freestyle. The Division 6 boys freestyle relay team (Alex, Nashon, Anton Stoeckly and Logan Sparkes) came in second place. The medley relay has four swimmers each doing a different stroke: back, breast, butterfly and free. The Division 6 (15 to 16 year old age group)

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medley relay was a real highlight because the anchor swimmer was four year old Indiana, who continued to work hard to finish the relay with her 50 m of freestyle after all the other much older swimmers had finished already. The coaches’ highlights of the meet were two swimmers that stood out for them. One was Philip Schwichtenberg finally breaking under 1 minute time in the 50 free after three years of trying to attain that goal. Emily Kutrowski, 10, swam 100 free style in 1 minute 45 seconds. The Chilliwack meet was only her second swim meet. Well done Phillip and Emily! In other AHA news the team recently did a swim-a-thon to raise money for the team. In total, 38 km distance was swam by all the swimmers who par-

ticipated. Thank you to everyone who donated money to the swimmers. Next up is the Agassiz swim meet on July 20 and 21, at the Ferny Coombe Pool. Come by and cheer for the Agassiz, Harrison and Hope swimmers. The club is also always looking for donations from businesses or individuals who want to help promote the team.

Celebrating its 10th Anniversary FREE BOOKS • ACTIVITIES • SONGS FUN AND MORE!

Tuesdays in Hope

Memorial Park 11am-1pm

Call 604-869-1363 for more information media sponsor...

July 16 featured book

“Cool Drink of Water” Entertainment by Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor Learning

Wednesdays in Agassiz

High School Gym 11am-1pm

Note: Location change for July 17 only

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Community

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, July 12, 2013 9

SHARE SOME NEWS!

Kilby sustainability plan being developed

If you have any stories or events that you would like to see in the Observer, either email a letter to the editor at: news@ahobserver.com or call 604-796-4302

Master plan will include public research and feedback Kilby Historic Site is a local, historic treasure. And to keep the site healthy into the future, the operators are beginning theprocess of preparing a site business plan and feasibility study with the Quincy Group Company. The Quincy Group Company has been retained by the Kilby’s operating group, the Fraser Heritage Society, to develop a strategic plan that will develop a business model. That new model will emphasize sustainability and authenticity of the Kilby property.

Funding for this program is coming from the BC Heritage Branch, who are also contributing to other provincial heritage sites around B.C. The group manager, Ken Smith, has had experience managing and implementing over 25 tourism master plans throughout the province of British Columbia, including Wells – Barkerville, O’Keefe Ranch and the Britannica Beach Mining Museum. Starting mid-July the group will be conducting community

research and focus groups. This research will involve stakeholders, community associations, First Nations organizations and local government operations. The Quincy Group is set to present their findings to the board by mid-October. “This is a very exciting time for Kilby Historic Site as we explore the possibilities for the site,” said Jasmine Wouda. “Please note the museum, farm and campground will continue to be open regular hours through out the sum-

Garden of the week

mer. We look forward to having community input over the next few months.” If you would like more information about the feasibility study or other aspects of the site please call

604-796-9576 to speak with Jo-Anne Leon. “We look forward to this opportunity to take positive steps toward the future and to preserve this unique piece of rural history for generations to come.”

Harrison Gospel Chapel Art Exhibit 2013

"Fullness of Life" Featuring Works of Art by Fraser Valley Artists

July 6th & 7th July 12th, 13th, & 14th 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm FREE Admission Everyone Welcome! Harrison Gospel Chapel 514 Lillooet Avenue, HHS

What keeps getting better each year? SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Communities in Bloom Committee in Harrison has chosen the garden of Kathleen Stephany, a local author, who receives her inspiration from her idyllic back yard. Vistas of beautiful flowering shrubs, vines, and healthy vegetables can be seen from the many antique benches place around the garden. Kathleen and husband Harold live at 520 Cottonwood Place.

For Agassiz, Harrison and Chilliwack

Date: July 16, 2013 Time: 10AM – 12PM Location: Chilliwack Alliance Church 8700 Young Road, Chilliwack

For more information, call Tony at 604.864.9294 | 855.864.9294 www.betterathome.ca

Refreshments Provided

Some things are just better together. #itsbettertogether

facebook.com/ﬂyerland.ca @ﬂyerland

10 Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, July 12, 2013

Community

Stensons have been pillars of community RUTH ALTENDORF

Harrison Happenings

It is hard to believe, but the time is here to wish Phyllis and Ed Stenson all the best health and happiness for their retiring years. They deserve it well. For more than three decades they have been pillars of our community and have worked hard to produce a first-class festival that has brought fun and excitement to

our community and for those who live here. Summer without the festival would be hard to imagine! But Phyllis and Ed have done more, much more for Harrison. Their dedication, not only to the festival but to the general wellbeing of our community, has been outstanding and inspired many of us

to follow their example in smaller ways. It will be a bittersweet last festival under their direction, for them as well as for us. However, to retire after a job well done is something to rejoice and be excited about. And so, together with our good wishes to Phyllis and Ed, we should pledge our support to

their successors and the festival itself. Nothing, I am sure, will please Phyllis and Ed more than this wish to come true. There is another Festival I should mention: It is the 20th Multicultural Festival at Kilby’s Historic Site, taking place on July 20. All festivals, but especially multicultural

ones, are part of the glue that binds our country together. We all once came from another place, another country and are now, not only eager to learn about our new homeland, but also to show what we have brought along. This is why multicultural festivals are so important to us. The festival coming up will show

us an array of booths with a variety of cultures and customs from different countries, not to forget food. Not many sites would be more suitable than the Kilby site. Once a flourishing hotel, general store and post office, it is now a well-known museum and tourist attraction, remembering those who came before us!

T ECHOES FROM THE PAST

Teachers say goodbye and track stars succeed July 11, 1963 • Mrs. H. Ericson, Mrs. G. Deasty, and Mr. John Klein were the guests of honour of the school board at a dinner held in John’s Restaurant on June 27. Among the guests was Col. John Burnett who was school superintendent for Richmond district where Mrs. Ericson taught for 29 years. Col. Burnett spoke very highly of her contribution to education. Mrs. Ericson,

who is retiring, has taught in the Agassiz High School for the past five years. She was presented with a gift of a long play record of poems on behalf of the Agassiz School District. Also honored on her retirement was Mrs. G. Deasty, who for many years had been principal of Harrison River School. She received a gift of a scroll saw to assist her in her hobby of wood working. Mr. John Klein was retiring

from Agassiz High School to further his studies after a long service as teacher and vice principal. For several years he had given much time to the high school camera club, and so he was presented with a light meter for his camera. Good wishes of the district were expressed to the retiring teachers by D.M.F. Clarke, chairman of the school board. • The Agassiz senior men’s softball team sponsored by the Kent Hotel Consolidated,

Make Your Home Safe for Independent Living Are you a low-income senior or a person with a disability who wants to live safely and independently in the comfort of your home? Do you have difficulty performing day-to-day activities? Does your home need to be adapted to meet your changing needs? If so, you may be eligible for financial assistance under the Home Adaptations for Independence (HAFI) program. Find out today if you are eligible and if you meet all of the requirements as a low-income homeowner or as a landlord applying on behalf of an eligible tenant.

To apply or learn more, visit www.bchousing.org/HAFI You can also contact BC Housing: Phone: 604-646-7055 Toll-free: 1-800-407-7757 (ext. 7055)

held the first place spot in their league by defeating the Spencer’s B’s 10-6 in Chilliwack. Ted Westlin was the winning pitcher, giving up only five hits, while the Agassiz batters contributed 12 hits. The big blows of the game were home runs by Ted Westlin of Agassiz in the fourth inning, and Sig Huth of Chilliwack in the ninth inning. • The final track and field

zone meets were completed the previous week, setting the stage for the first full provincial championships of the Pacific Command of the Legion’s Junior Training Program to be held in August. Already some impressive times and heights had been set, and records were likely to tumble. Thousands of youngsters had passed through the hands of 180 branches of the Legion from the Queen Charlottes to

HAFI adapts homes for B.C. seniors and people with disabilities

Brenda has always been an active woman. However, recent health issues including osteoarthritis in her left knee and losing kidney function have slowed her down. Her mobility is limited and she is now on dialysis three days a week. To adjust to her changed circumstances, Brenda sought help with her daily living activities. Part of that help came from the Home Adaptations for Independence (HAFI) program offered through BC Housing. Launched in January 2012, the HAFI program provides financial assistance to help eligible low-income seniors and people with disabilities adapt their homes so they can continue to live independently. Brenda applied for a new walk-in bathtub because she couldn’t safely get out of the tub on her own. Walk-in tubs include additional safety measures such as anti-slip floors, grab bars, and a very low step in. Home adaptations may also include handrails in halls or stairs, ramps for

H O U S I N G M AT T E R S

Grand Forks. The first ever provincial coaching clinic was held at Victoria University in April. This produced 80 track and field coaches who made this program possible. The key to successful track and field is undoubtedly in having sufficient coaches. The Pacific Command of the Legion voted to give $50,000 over the next five years to give the JOTP a solid foundation to build both coaches and athletes.

easier access, easy-to-reach work and storage areas in the kitchen, lever handles on doors or faucets, walk-in showers, and bathtub grab bars and seats. Brenda is a strong advocate for the program and has even shared HAFI brochures with nurses in the renal unit where she undergoes dialysis. If you or someone you know is having difficulty performing day-to-day activities safely and independently – the HAFI program may be able to help. Since the program began, more than 300 households completed renovations with HAFI financial assistance, making it possible for seniors and people with disabilities to continue to live in the safety and comfort of their home.

Agassiz Harrison Observer Friday, July 12, 2013 11

Entertainment

Fan favourite kicks off Twilight Series A Good Read! Jessica Peters THE OBSERVER

Stacey McKitrick will kick off the Pioneer Park Twilight Concert Series on Thursday, July 18.

There are three great concerts planned for this summer’s Pioneer Park Twilight Concert Series. The shows will run every other Thursday, beginning July 18 with a Country in the Park theme night, featuring Stacey McKitrick. The crowds loved her at last year’s Canada Day celebrations in Agassiz, and she has a strong fan base throughout the Fraser Valley. McKitrick has performed for Great Big Sea and Lady Antebellum. She’s already the proud recipient of a Juno Award, for her work on the collaborative song Waving Flag. Her hit, Friends for Life, was written by Nickelback’s Chad Kroeger, who offered her the song. You can watch the video online at stac-

eymckitrick.com, or come out to see her perform live in Pioneer Park. Other Twilight Series to come this summer will be Rockin’ the Park on Aug. 1, featuring Awake O Sleeper, and Rhythm in the Park on Aug. 15, with Pancho and Sal. This year, the concert series coincides with the Agassiz Farm Fresh Market. The Agassiz Fire Department will be on hand selling hot dogs and drinks, Prospera Credit Union will be there with the Popcorn and the Early Childhood Development’s Success by Six program will operate a bouncy castle for the kids. Sponsors again this year are the Prospera Credit Union, Agassiz Harrison Lions Club and the Agassiz Harrison Observer. Shows begin at 6:30 p.m.

Drummond making tour stop at Layback Jessica Peters THE OBSERVER

A musician who is making waves in the music scene will be coming to the beach at the end of this month. Greg Drummond and his band will perform at the Layback Lounge on Friday, July 26, fresh off finding out he's been chosen to participate in the Peak Performance Project 2013. "This is a huge career building step for new artists that has been put together by 102.7 The Peak and Music BC," Drummond announced on his website recently. "The Project includes performing at the Khatsahlano Fest July 13, a music boot-camp, live showcases and some amazing funding to help artists reach their career goals." While most local music lovers will be too busy drinking up the

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Greg Drummond and his band are taking part in the Khatsahlano Fest this weekend, but will be in Harrison on July 27.

offerings of the festival right in our own backyard this weekend,

Drummond is looking forward to visiting the area for his performance at Layback. It's part of their All Through the Night Summer Tour, which includes stops in Burnaby, Kelowna and Salmon Arm for the Port Moody based musician. His band includes Michael Lothian, Alanna Pearce, Mike Meroniuk, and Marshall Hunt. Together, he says, they have conquered a variety of concert halls from private shows to the infamous Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver. They've recently been recognized for the tune Walking Man. To learn more about Drummond and his band, and have a listen to their music, visit them online at www. gregdrummond.com. news@ahobserver.com

Volunteers in action The Communities in Bloom volunteers were hard at work last week, cleaning up the boulevards at the Kent Fitness/Activity Centre. Communities in Bloom holds a national and provincial competition throughout Canada, and communities can participate in numerous ways. Judges will be visiting Agassiz on July 18. SUBMITTED PHOTO

A g as s iz Y Harr is on

AGASSIZ ELEMENTARY SECONDARY SCHOOL

2013 BURSARY/AWARDS WINNERS

McKitrick part of Juno-winning collaboration Waving Flag

The Observer

BURSARY/ SCHOLARSHIP

AMOUNT WINNER(S)

Agassiz Dental Group Agassiz Remax/Nyda Realty AESS PAC Jack Lapeyre Memorial Hub International Insurance Harrison Mills Community Club Harrison Festival Society RCMP Harris & Co. Law Scholarship Royal Canadian Legion Br. 32 Right Photography Britco Kyle Reilly Memorial (Harrison PAC)

$500 $400 $500 $1000 $500 $500 $500 $500 $200 $500 $300 $1750 $250 Each

Wally Maguire Memorial Bursary (Lions) Cliff Jewkes Bursary (Lions) Agassiz Harrison Lions Club Norman Morrow (Lions) Modern Tire & Towing Mayor Don Ramsay Endowment (KHF) Pretty Family (KHF) McCombs Family Endowment (KHF) Chilliwack Rotary Club Kristy Hatt Memorial Agassiz Harrison Chamber of Commerce Spectra Energy Barry Simmons Memorial Scholarship AESS Bursary AESS Bursary Coles Alumni Scholarship Coles Alumni Trades Scholarship Seabird Graduation Bursary

$750 $750 $750 $750 $500 $500 $500 $500 $1000 $1000 $500 $500 $500 $1000 $800 $750 $750 $100 Each

Aboriginal Education Council UFV Excellence Entrance Scholarship “District Authority Awards Reward for Excellence in Non-Academic Fields” Fine Art District/Authority Award Applied Skills District/Authority Award Physical Activity District/Authority Award Second Languages District/Authority Award Community Service District/Authority Award Technical & Trades Training District/Authority Award Secondary School Apprenticeship Scholarship

$1000 $3000

Jon Cercel Tommy Hrynkiw Kieran Forge Jon Cercel Leanne Bodnar Brooke Duncan Mikah Bresland Josh Jewett Jon Cercel Grant Morley Jaemin Hwang Brooke Duncan Mikah Bresland Kieran Forge Kieran Forge Tommy Hrynkiw Amanda Boorman Brooke Duncan Brent Darel Mikah Bresland Brooke Duncan Kieran Forge Shelby Dodd Leanne Bodnar Amanda Boorman Kieran Forge Mikah Bresland EJ Link Jon Cercel Brooke Duncan Florin Andrie Eric Louis Daniel McNeil-Bobb Zack McNeil-Bobb Ashton Penner Marlana Peters Brie Robotham EJ Link Jonathan Cercel

$1000

Kieran Forge

$1000

Ashton Penner

$1000

Leanne Bodnar

$1000

Jon Cercel

$1000 $1000

EJ Link Amanda Boorman

$1000