Creston Valley Advance, August 28, 2014 by Black Press Media Group

When do I get to try out that firehose? Serving the Creston Valley since 1948

Thursday, August 28, 2014

Volume 66, No. 35

$1.10 (includes GST)

No end in sight for provinceteacher dispute BY LORNE ECKERSLEY Advance Staff

Negotiators from the province and BC Teachers’ Federation have been quiet in recent days, but no sign of a resolution that would see schools open next week was evident at press time. Jeff Jones, School District No. 8 (Kootenay lake) superintendent and CEO, says that the scheduled start to the school year on Sept. 2 seems unlikely. “Unfortunately, although we continue to remain hopeful that a negotiated settlement will be reached between the BCTF and the ministry, school startup for this September is anything but business as usual — even if we do have the opportunity to start on time,” he said on Monday. “We are hoping for a September start, but that becomes less and less of a reality as time marches on.” Teachers returned to the picket lines on Tuesday at Creston Valley schools, the Creston Education Centre and the bus garage. “I am hearing from people all over who are very supportive,” Creston Valley Teachers’ Association president Becky Blair said on Monday. “People understand our concerns over class size and composition.” See TEACHERS, page 5

Lorne Eckersley

HOLD ON! — Firefighter Neil Farynowski helps out a future colleague with a firehose at the Aug. 19 Hot Summer Nights, the

final event in a series hosted by Creston Fire Rescue to increase public awareness about the fire department and learn more about firefighting equipment and services. For more photos, visit www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca/ourtown.

Glad Tidings changes name Page 3

$509,000 for KES to hire disabled Page 4

DISCOVERY REAL ESTATE

• RCMP week includes 226-plant bust /5 • Library hosting three authors /23 FIND US ONLINE AT

WWW.CRESTONVALLEYADVANCE.CA

20252 00104 6

Canada Post Publications Agreement 40069240

What Moves You? www.remaxcreston.com

Michael Carpenter Broker/Owner

Sheldon Browell

Tyler Hancock, ABR, PREC

Ingrid Voigt

Daryl Porter

Sara Malyk

428-6594

428-6805

428-9916

402-3498

402-9339

435-0071

2 Ofﬁces to Serve You! 1013 Canyon St. Creston • 106 33rd Ave. S. Hwy. 3 Erickson

Toll Free 1-877-428-2234 OFFICE 250-428-2234

100% LOCALLY OWNED AND INDEPENDENTLY OPERATED

CONTACT YOUR RE/MAX EXPERT TODAY!

2 www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca

small-town

DIFFERENCE sponsored by PYRAMID BUILDING SUPPLIES THE

Thursday, August 28, 2014 Creston Valley Advance

The John Bucyk Arena’s ice can’t get much more patriotic than this. Earlier this month, Creston and District Community Complex maintenance foreman Stuart Durning painted the Creston Valley Thunder Cats logo on the ice of the John Bucyk Arena, well in time for the Thunder Cats training camp to run last weekend. At the same time, he added a unique centre line — he tries to create a new one each year — featuring a long row of Canadian flags in the ice. Neil Ostafichuk

NOW OPEN MONDAYS, JULY & AUGUST • 250-428-SHOW (7469)

SHOWTIMES: 7:30PM I am Groot

THE TIVOLI THEATRE PRESENTS...

OPEN MONDAY Sept 1

Playing 2D

Tues and Sun

Starring Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana Dave Bautista • Voice Talents of: Vin Diesel & Bradley Cooper

Carried over to...

Thursday, Sept 4

Coming Attractions: Hercules, Let’s Be Cops, If I Stay, The Expendables 3

f rred by paint and design profe f ssionals. The premium paint prefe fe fe The colour and quality prefe f rred by you. fe

Find these colours and more at benjaminmoore.ca

PYRAMID

Your “Small Town Difference” Sponsor

BUILDING SUPPLIES LTD. 1220 NW Blvd. Creston BC 250-428-7114

Blue Star Sale

OPEN HOUSES SUNDAY, AUGUST 31

SAVE $ 100

#10 - 310 6th Ave S

2:00 - 4:00pm New to market and not to be missed! Stunning 2 bed, 3 bath townhome in Crestview Estates, fully ﬁnished lower level, double garage, and one of the largest private sundecks in the complex. $234,000 MLS 2400006 *on selected in stock

223 - 16th Ave N 250-428-2044

#4 - 1415 Alder Street

Noon - 1:45pm Brand new 2 bed condo ready to move in! All stainless appliances, heat pump, gas ﬁreplace, vaulted ceilings and low monthly fees. Drop by to see all this gorgeous unit has to offer. $194,000 MLS 2398477

For full details and photos, please visit my website at

www.EKProperties.ca

1131 Canyon St, Creston BC • 250-428-9331 Carol Geurts Associate Broker

ith no end in sight for the B.C. government and BC Teachers’ Federation dispute, the rec centre and a church are offering day camps for elementary-aged children. For the first two weeks of September, the Creston and District Community Complex is offering its Not Back to School Camp, which will run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. Participants can register in two groups: Grades 1-3 and Grades 4-7. Grace Christian Fellowship (formerly Glad Tidings Pentecostal Church) is opening its doors for educational, non-religious day camps until the strike is over. Students from kindergarten through Grade 6 are eligible for the camp, which runs 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. Registration is open through Aug. 29. Both camps have limited space, and charge registration fees. For more information, contact the Creston and District Community Complex at 250-428-7127 or Grace Christian Fellowship at 250-428-7418.

LocaL News

Creston Valley Advance Thursday, August 28, 2014

Community of Creston

Arts Council

Creston Curling Centre Annual General Meeting

Annual General Meeting Wednesday, September 10, 2014 7:00pm Snoring Sasquatch 221 - 11 Ave. N. Creston

Everyone Welcome Membership Applications & Renewals 6:00 - 7:00pm

www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca 3

A new sign on a Cedar Street church is intended to align traditional Christian beliefs with the 21st century. Grace Christian Fellowship is the updated brand of the former Glad Tidings Pentecostal Church and much thought has been given to the new name, said Pastor Stephen Schneider. “My family and I moved to this amazing valley in July 2013 and we truly love all the people here and all of the fruit — literally — and blessings that this valley has to offer,” he said. “Let me start off by saying yes we are still Pentecostal, but more importantly we as a church family want to be known as Christ followers, or Christians.” The name change has generated many questions from the public, he said. “Part of the reasons of why we changed our name is to help our church keep up with the growing changes in our society, and so that our new name would be a testimony to our community and congregation of what we are striving for and what we want to be known for.” Each word in the name was chosen carefully, with the intent to describe beliefs of the congregation.

Yours, all yours

Date: Thursday, September 11, 2014 Time: 7:00pm Place: Creston Curling Lounge (Creston Community Complex)

Looking for five new directors this year! Anyone wanting to be a director contact:

Ross Gowan 250-428-9866 Cathy Christensen 250-428-3999

ESTON CR

CRESTON Everyone is welcome!CURLING CLUB

Pentecostal name change empasizes Christianity BY LORNE ECKERSLEY Advance Staff

Home sweet home

Grace — elegance, goodwill, mercy or pardon — signifies “something that we can’t earn.” “It’s a gift,” Schneider said. “Grace is the free and unmerited favour of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings. It is freely offered to everyone

Dean Bala

YOUR LOCAL MORTGAGE BROKER AND REALTORTM

dean_bala@yahoo.com www.deanbala.com Best rates and products in today’s marketplace

Creston Valley

REALTY

LTD

250-402-3903

to become like Christ in our attitudes, beliefs and actions.” Fellowship means friendly association, Schneider said. “We believe that God has created us as relational beings that need each other, and that God has given ‘the church’ many different gifts that must be shared Brian Lawrence

SING OUT —

The new logo for Grace Christian Fellowship.

and anyone who would like to receive it. “It is our desire not only to understand and respond to the grace that God has given us, but also to exemplify it by putting grace into practice toward each other and to our community. “We chose ‘Christian’ to let everyone know what we believe, and where we stand with Christ. A Christian is someone who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is our desire for people to know and identify immediately from our name what we are about, that we are followers of Jesus Christ and that we are striving

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Summit Medical Clinic 319 - 15th Ave. N (Dr. Mackay’s Office) SOCIETY (Formerly the Creston & District Community Resource Center Society)

1-250-304-4792

Brian Lawrence

Valley Community Services

Tues September 9 and September 30

FOR APPOINTMENTS, PLEASE CALL

Submitted

so that we can help build each other up, to become fully mature in Christ,” he said. “It is our desire for us to share life together, not to be known as a religious institution of rules and regulations that historically has torn people apart and has not been a good representation of the lives that we are called to live together in unity.” Schneider and the congregation of Grace Christian Fellowship welcome visitors to Sunday morning services at 10:30 a.m. at 2416 Cedar St. For more information, visit crestongracefellowship.com or call the church at 250-428-7418.

PODIATRY CLINIC with Dr. Joanne Lih

Effective Solutions for: Heel pain, arch pain, heel spurs, bunions, corns, calluses, and toenails Including Orthotics and Preventative routine care

The piano recently installed in the Canyon Street Walkthough is being well used, and was enjoyed Aug. 21 by members of the Cresteramics singing and percussion group, accompanied by Monte Anderson. The group hopes to make the Thursday afternoon singalong a regular event. Find more photos at www.crestonvalley advance.ca/ourtown.

Thursday Sept 11, 2013 • 6:30 - 8:00pm 915 Pine Street (New Location)

Memberships and Membership Renewals available at VCS ofﬁce (915 Pine Street) OR at the AGM from 6:00 - 6:30pm

Nominations for board members must be received at the VCS ofﬁce 7 days prior to AGM. 250-428-5547 Business Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

FIRST STEPS INFANT TODDLER DAY CARE CENTRE

has some part time and full time spaces available for children birth to 36 months. We are a small intimate setting licensed for a maximum of 12 children. Our staff have infant toddler education and experience, and are ﬁrst aid certiﬁed. Subsidy for qualifying parents is available. First Steps staff nurture and promote each child’s individual development

Please phone 250-428-4839 for more information

Local News

4 www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca

Thursday, August 28, 2014 Creston Valley Advance

Funding helping KES find work for disabled BY BARRY COULTER Cranbrook Daily Townsman

The best social program is a good job. So says Hugh Grant, executive director of Kootenay Employment Services (KES), which helps find employment for people throughout the Kootenay Rockies region. On Aug. 18, KES received more than $500,000 in federal funding to help people with disabilities in the region find gainful work, through KES’s Working Solutions program. The funding was announced by Candice Bergen, Minister of State for Social Development, at the Service Canada offices in downtown Cranbrook. “Our government believes that everybody who wants to work should have the opportunity to work,” said Bergen, who is the MP for Portage-Lisgar in Manitoba. “So when it comes to the overall strategy of skills and job training and linking people with jobs that are available, certainly there are people with disabilities who have many abilities who have been left out.” The funding, to the tune of $509,000, comes from the federal government’s Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities, to help those with varying abilities get jobs. The project will help 44 peo-

ple in the Kootenay Rockies region overcome barriers to employment through either skills training of job placement. “There are fantastic programs across the country, one right here in the Kootenay region — Kootenay Employment Services — which helps people with a variety of barriers get to work,” Bergen said. “They’re going to help 44 people in the region with either training to get to work — resume writing, how to decide what kind of work you’re looking for, interview skills. Or the other part is helping employers with their wages. Employers say, ‘I’d like to hire this person, I could use a little help paying them until I get everything worked out.’ That’s what these funds will go towards.” The Working Solutions program is delivered throughout the Kootenay Rockies region. It is part of the Opportunities Fund, and puts individuals into skill training programs, each one customized for the individual. It also helps with wage subsidies, to encourage employers to hire those individuals to give them the actual on-theground work experience. Bergen said the results have been outstanding. “A huge percentage of people have found jobs and are in longterm employment, and are able to do all the things we enjoy

Barry Coulter

(From left) Kootenay Employment Services executive director Hugh Grant, Minister of State for Social Development Candice Bergen and Kootenay-Columbia MP David Wilks.

doing — earning a living, supporting our families, supporting ourselves, contributing to our community,” she said. “And it isn’t about being socially responsible; this is about economic benefit for all of us. It’s tax dollars being wisely invested.” Grant said the funding is going to be put to work by helping individuals “who have either

TOWN OF CRESTON ADVANCE ELECTOR REGISTRATION Are you eligible to vote at the November elections for Mayor, Councillors and School Trustee? Is your name on the current List of Electors? If you are not sure you can find out by calling or visiting the Town Hall, 238 – 10th Avenue North, Telephone 250-428-2214, ext. 233 or 226. The office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday (excluding holidays).

never been in the workforce because of disabilities holding them back, or individuals that have been in the workforce but have been injured or one way or another disabled and are trying to return to the workforce. “[Working Solutions] is a wonderful program that gives those individuals that opportunity. I’ve often told folks that the best social program is a good job. And that’s what comes through this funding. We match people with jobs and get them back into the workforce so that they are contributing members to social programs rather than having to depend on them.

“There’s real cost savings for the government of Canada through this program.” Kootenay-Columbia MP David Wilks said, “Certainly in this area, we all see those people who want to work, who want to find an avenue to get into work, and this is a great opportunity for that.” Bergen, who was elected in 2008, actually lived in Cranbrook for a number of years. “Someone from my family has always lived in Cranbrook,” she said. “I could probably drive to Cranbrook from Morden, Man., with my eyes closed in about 17 hours.”

Due to the Labour Day holiday the ofﬁce will be CLOSED Monday, September 1.

Advance elector registrations will be accepted at the Town Hall until September 23, 2014. With the exception of registrations on voting days, elector registrations will not be accepted during the period September 24, 2014 to November 15, 2014.

ELECTOR QUALIFICATIONS RESIDENT ELECTORS: • age 18 or older; • a Canadian citizen; • a resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration; • a resident of the Town of Creston for at least 30 days immediately before the day of registration; and, • not disqualified by any enactment from voting in an election or otherwise disqualified by law. NON-RESIDENT PROPERTY ELECTORS: • age 18 or older; • a Canadian citizen; • a resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day of registration; • a registered owner of real property in the Town of Creston for at least 30 days immediately before the day of registration; • not entitled to register as a resident elector; • not disqualified by an enactment from voting in an election or otherwise disqualified by law; and, • if there is more than one registered owner of the property, only one of those individuals may, with the written consent of the majority of the owners, register as a non-resident property elector.

LIST OF REGISTERED ELECTORS Beginning September 30, 2014 until the close of general voting for the election on November 15, 2014, a copy of the list of registered electors will, upon signature, be available for public inspection at the Town Hall, located at 238 – 10th Avenue N., during regular office hours, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays, or at the Voting Place on November 15, 2014. An elector may request that their address or other information about them be omitted from or obscured on the List of Electors.

OBJECTION TO REGISTRATION OF AN ELECTOR An objection to the registration of a person whose name appears on the list of registered electors may be made in accordance with the Local Government Act until 4:00 p.m. on October 10, 2014. An objection must be in writing and may only be made by a person entitled to be registered as an elector of the Town of Creston and can only be made on the basis that the person whose name appears has died or is not qualified to be registered as an elector of the Town of Creston. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on these matters, the following persons may be contacted: Bev Caldwell, Chief Election Officer at 250-428-2214, ext. 226 Donna Cassel, Deputy Election Officer at 250-428-2214, ext. 233 Chief Election Officer

Have a GREAT LABOUR DAY weekend!

250.428.2266 • 1018 Canyon St.

Creston Valley Advance Thursday, August 28, 2014

Local News

RCMP week includes driving offences, unattended children, grow-op bust BY LORNE ECKERSLEY Advance Staff

driving slowly and erratically on Highway 3. When located, he told police he was driving to a funeral in Manitoba. Because he was staying within his lane, police had no cause to take his licence. •Three tires were slashed on a vehicle parked on Canyon Street. August 21 •Two males fighting on Beam Road were gone when police arrived. •A battery was stolen from a vehicle on 12th Avenue North. •Two babies and a child were reportedly left untended in a vehicle in the 1400 block of Canyon Street but the vehicle was gone when police arrived. •A wallet and cash were stolen from an unlocked vehicle on Valleyview Drive. •Harassment by a coworker was reported at a Canyon Street business. •The part owner of a semi complained about a tow charge incurred after the vehicle was in a crash in the Lower Mainland. A tow company is demanding $45,000 over the $12,000 paid by ICBC. He was informed this is a civil dispute. •A vehicle had to be towed after it went off Loki Creek Forest Service Road. •Articles of clothing were found at the Highway 3 rest stop at Kidd Creek. •Loud music was reported in an ongoing neighbours’ dispute on Dogwood Street. •A female reported being threatened by her adult son on 19th Avenue South. •Police assisted Sechelt RCMP by serving a warrant on a male. •A 40-year-old intoxicated male was arrested on Elm Street and held in police cells until sober.

August 22 •A vehicle in the ditch on 11th Avenue South was towed. •Cherry pickers in a dispute with an Erickson Road fruit grower reported they were threatened with a knife. •A total of 226 marijuana plants were destroyed in the dismantling of an outdoor grow-op near Pilot Bay. •Shots were reported near Elsie Holmes Road. •A vehicle reported to be stunting in the 1800 block of Highway 3 was not located. •A cellphone, iPad Mini and iPad were stolen from an unlocked vehicle in a Cook Street parking lot. August 23 •A driver was ticketed for not signalling the intention to make a turn on Lower Wynndel Road, leading to a collision. •A warning letter has been sent to a B.C. driver who failed to stop for a pedestrian in a Cook Street parking lot. August 24 •When police contacted the owner of pallets dumped at a Highway 3 rest area, he said they were left temporarily and that he intended to pick them up. •A pack of dogs attacking a deer near Crusher Road was reported. •A motorcycle was found on Highway 3A but the owner was not located. •Police were unable to locate a black Ford Escort being driven erratically on Highway 3. •U.S. border officials reported arresting a male for illegally entering the U.S. between border checkpoints. He said he was visiting relatives in Nelson and had entered Canada in Newfoundland.

Creston RCMP responded to 72 calls for service from Aug. 18-24, Cpl. Monty Taylor said on Monday. August 18 •A red and chrome Road King bicycle was found on Erickson Road. •An elderly male was in a 15th Avenue North parking lot when he hit the gas instead of the brake pedal and drove into a building. The car and building were damaged but no injuries resulted. •Children were reported to be shooting potato guns in the Canyon-Lister Elementary School yard. •A well-being check in the 8300 block of Highway 3/95 revealed the resident was OK. •A daughter called 911 from Highway 3/95 out of concern for violence by a mother who was angry when the caller and her father came home late for dinner. The mother had left the premises when police arrived. August 19 •Two drivers in a near crash on Helen Street called police to complain about each others’ driving. •Police are investigating a report of elder abuse involving a large sum of money on 26th Avenue North. •A shoplifter has been banned from a Northwest Boulevard business. •A complaint was received about an erratic driver on Highway 3. The complainant said the driver appeared to have his eyes closed. •The owner of a vehicle abandoned on the Corn Creek Forest Service Road has agreed to remove it. •A driver of a an ATV on a road near Goat River Bridge on Highway 21 was given a $595 ticket for driving without sic, food, drinks, games and Classic u m f o y Cars! da insurance. A fun August 20 •BMX bike riders who set up jump ramps on the Creston and District Community Complex parking lot were told to remove them and move on. •Speeding vehicles were reported on Huscroft Road. •An Evans Road resident reported her Featuring computer was hacked and documents were Peoplesʻ Choice Trophies Awards stolen. She is concerned about potential Bring your Classic Beauties to identity theft. Big Daddy’s Bar & Grill in Porthill, Idaho •Speeding motorSunday, September 7 • 11 am* to 4pm cycles were reported *Register onsite by 10:45 am Call 208-267-0434 for details on Highway 3A. •Several calls were received about an Door Prizes • Raffles • Horseshoes • Bocce Ball • $2 Beer • Live Music elderly male who was

www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca 5

Teachers

“It’s just so harebrained. It’s simply an attempt to undermine the bargaining process.”

From page 1 Blair said the stalemate at the bargaining table stems from a dozen years ago, when the provincial government tore up an existing labour contract with Becky Blair teachers and imposed new terms that removed their right to negoCVTA president tiate class size and composition. Two court rulings have since ruled in favour of teachers and ings’ (salaries for teaching staff the issue is currently before the during the strike) are returned to BC Court of Appeals, with a the ministry. The district will decision expected sometime this keep 20 per cent of those ‘savings’. Through our normal budfall. “Our local has been calling for geting processes the board will a focus on class size and composi- decide how best to allocate those tion since 2002,” Blair said. “We resources.” even went up against the BCTF Like the Advance and voted against a on Facebook at contract to express our concerns.” facebook.com/cvadvance A promise from Premier Christy Clark to give parents of students under 13 $40 dollars a day while the strike continues hasn’t helped nego30th Annual tiations, Blair said. “It’s just so harebrained,” she said. “It’s simply an attempt to underSaturday, October 4, 2013 mine the bargaining process.” Creston & District Community Complex To date, only Cocktails & Hors D’oeuvres at 5:30pm teachers are affected by the strike, Dinner at 7:00pm Jones said. Raffles and Auctions to Follow “There have been no layoffs as Tickets $40 each a result of the Available at Mawson’s Sports strike,” he said. “We continue to receive operating funds. Eighty percent of strike ‘sav-

Creston DUC Chapter’s

Dinner & Auction

BORDERLINE TRANSMISSION Over 37 years at the same location with the same owner! We’ll be here when you need us.

NOW WE GIVE YOU Transmission Service Special

Includes: road test, remove pan, visual inspection, clean sump, replace filter, adjust bands and linkage, replace pan gasket and fluid.

CHOICES... Automatic Transmission Flush and Electronic Scan

Includes: automatic transmission flush, electronic scan, road test, visual inspection, clean sump, new filter, adjust linkage, new pan gasket, new oil and more.

Free courtesy cars and FREE towing with major repairs

If you’re going anywhere else you’re paying too much! Save your money... you work hard for it. 2865B Highway Drive, Trail Your Automatic Transmission Specialists

Call Toll Free 1-877-368-3231 250-368-3231 Cell 250-231-3234

Open Mon - Sat 8am - 5pm

6 www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca

Opinion Line

Thursday, August 28, 2014 Creston Valley Advance

When fads go wild

If you are curious about human raising? Do they even know what behaviour you have had much to ALS is and why the funds are think about in these last few weeks. needed? The ice bucket challenge craze My usual response to family, attached to fundraising for the friends and acquaintances who are treatment and research of amyoraising money for a charity is, just trophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or, as because it is your charity of choice it was most commonly known in doesn’t mean it’s mine. On the the past, Lou Gehrig’s disease) has been a huge boon to organizations in North America. On Sunday, I heard an American spokesman say that donations in the past month have been three times what they were in all of 2013. A Canadian Lorne Eckersley representative said on Monday that $5 million had flowed into coffers in the last two weeks, a period in which positive side, no one could have they typically average “a few thouforeseen that the ice bucket chalsand dollars”. lenge would have taken off as it If you follow any major social has. And perhaps it is in part media feeds, like Facebook and because ALS isn’t a widespread Twitter, you have seen a fascinatand over-reported disease that the ing explosion of interest. But the challenge has resonated. Would it interest hasn’t been fueled by the have had the same impact if the horrors of a disease that eats away intent was to raise money for canat the neuromuscular system, usucer or diabetes or lung diseases, all ally ending lives prematurely and of which are far more common painfully. Instead, people are than ALS? donating because they have been For reasons that I have been challenged to make a donation, unable to fathom, the ice bucket then film themselves having a challenge has become a phenomebucket of ice water dumped on non. I suspect, I hate to admit, that their head. many see it as an excuse not just to I have no problem with anydo a good thing, but to be seen thing that encourages people to doing a good thing. I watched a donate to worthy causes, and ALS video of my niece explaining that is no doubt one. But I do wonder she had made a donation (which about the thought process at work was doubled by the company she here. Do many donors make their works for) but would I have done contributions with no thought so without the expectation that she about how the money is being was about to be doused by a buckused? Do they check to see how et of ice water? Not a chance. So efficient the benefiting organizashe gets a little kick from the attention is and how much is being tion, gets to send out a charity spent on administration and fundchain letter in the guise of chal-

lenges to three others, and all of her Facebook friends get the entertainment value of seeing her shocked by the frigid water. Fortunately, good information is at hand for those who really want to know about charities. I am particularly impressed with Charity Intelligence Canada, which publishes reports about the finances of various charities on its website. The information appears to be solid and is presented in a consistent manner, allowing viewers to easily contrast and compare data against other agencies. In the case of the ALS Society of Canada, its mission is to find a cure and provide support for those with the disease. It estimates there are 2,500 to 3,000 Canadians living with ALS currently. It had revenues of $6.731 million last year and spent 12 per cent of donations on administrative costs and 31 per cent on fundraising, which means that of each dollar donated, 55 cents goes to programs designed to fulfill its mission. ALS Society of Canada has 11 full-time employees, the top 10 of which are paid an average compensation of $91,000 a year. The top paid employee makes between $160,000$200,000 annually. A caution — none of this information is particularly helpful unless it is compared to other charities. I have no interest in dumping cold water on non-profits or their financial supporters. But I have endless fascination for people who make uninformed spending choices when a fad like the ice bucket challenge comes along. Lorne Eckersley is the publisher of the Creston Valley Advance.

A student of Zen does not intoxicate self or others but rather cultivates and encourages clarity. Zen practice occurs within the context of clear presence and mindfulness, and a state of mind that is not conditioned by intoxicants of any sort. When enough clarity is lost it is all too easy to break the other precepts. Furthermore, it is our intention at the Creston Zen Centre to sustain an environment that supports those who are attempting to live without intoxicants. Intoxicants and meditation don’t go together. Intoxicants take us away from reality; meditation takes us toward reality. Which do we want? We are already intoxicated by media onslaught, by an aggrandized notion of self and by attachment to objects and ideas, and we cause suffering for ourselves and others as a result. Why would we want to take more intoxicants? One of the main reasons for not becoming intoxicated is that attachment to intoxication can — and often does — lead to breaking other vows or straying from one’s integrity. If we use intoxicating substances to the point of addiction, we become prone to lying and stealing. It should be noted that in Zen we make a distinction between intoxi-

doctrine. The precept cautions against fanaticism of any sort, and includes refraining from trying to intoxicate others with our beliefs. It’s often understood as a cautionary precept for Zen students: do not intoxicate yourself or others with your practice or your teachings, do not try to draw others into your orbit with proselytizing. This precept is not about judging others’ use, or even misuse, of intoxicants. It is about protecting clarity of mind so that we are able to rest our awareness in the present moment and meet it exactly as it is. Intoxication obscures clarity of mind, and it is only through clarity that we can understand and rest in our true nature moment to moment. Suggested practice: Take some time to consider what intoxicating substances or activities are active in your life at this time. What takes you away from being present with a clear mind? Pick one intoxicant, and for the next two weeks, refrain from using it. Notice changes that happen in your awareness during that time. Kuya Minogue is the resident teacher at Creston’s ZenWords Zen Centre. For more information, she can be reached at 250-428-6500.

This is the Life

Refrain from intoxicants cation, where one’s clarity is compromised, and simply enjoying a glass of wine with dinner. This precept, like the others, is not a commandment or a rule, but rather a

Zen's-Eye View Kuya Minogue

2,500-year-old suggestion. The issue is whether or not you consistently keep your mind focused on cultivating kindness, compassion, wisdom and the practices that get you there. This precept is not only about consuming drugs and alcohol. Food laced with sugars, or unhealthy fats and salts can be an intoxicant as well, and the suffering that results is evidenced by rising obesity rates. Alcohol, food and drugs are taken into the body. In Zen, refraining from intoxicants also addresses what we take into our minds. That is, the precept is also about mental intoxication — intoxication with Internet games, mindless television or religious

opiNioN LiNe

Creston Valley Advance Thursday, August 28, 2014

Group glad Blackmore charged To the Editor: Our Creston group, Altering Destiny Through Education, is pleased that the B.C. government has finally laid polygamy charges against two well-known polygamists from the religious cult in Bountiful. We are disappointed that charges for trafficking and sexual exploitation of underage girls were not laid against Winston Blackmore, who admitted under oath in February 2014 in Utah that at least 10 of his 26 wives were under the age of 18 when he “married” them in religious ceremonies. We wonder how many of these young girls he married when he was Superintendent of Bountiful Elementary School. The Criminal Code states that a person in a position of authority cannot have sex with anyone under the age of 18. We also wonder how many of Winston’s “brides” were trafficked illegally into Canada. Because the B.C. government decided not to pursue polygamy charges against the leaders of Bountiful in the

early 1990s, the trafficking of children, the girls for “celestial wives” and boys as unpaid labour, accelerated with the government’s green light. We recommend the book A Cruel Arithmetic by Craig Jones about the polygamy trial. It is available in the Creston Valley Public Library. If you read the testimonies of the people from Creston who were raised in Bountiful, you will know the harm it caused the women and children as the authorities looked the other way. A religious lifestyle that harms people cannot be above the law. Audrey Vance and Linda Price Co-Chairs, Altering Destiny Through Education

Government still acting above law To the Editor: As a parent of four kids in the public school system and a teacher who has been locked out of his school by the government since the middle of June, I am very anxious for school to resume. It is a good time to reflect on the context of the ongoing conflict between the BC Liberal government

and the public education system. No matter what may or may not happen between the writing of this letter and the eventual return of students and teachers to classrooms, certain points need to remain in the public memory. This current dispute really began in 2002, when the Liberal government illegally stripped out sections of the contract they formally agreed to. After years of court proceedings, the government was consistently found in the wrong, and even in contempt of court and negotiating in bad faith. That has not stopped it from acting above the law. Maybe it’s because Premier Christy Clark sends her own kid to a private school. Maybe it’s because Education Minister Peter Fassbender does the same. Maybe because the Americans figured out that selling out public institutions makes a lot of money for private corporations at the expense of a decent education system for the remaining 99 per cent. The HST, the disruption of our medical system and poor treatment of our nurses and doctors, the fake Jumbo Glacier Resort town council, the betrayal of the ALR, and the environmental tailings pond disaster of Bill Bennett’s buddies in the mining industry — maybe what is really needed now is the beginning of a MLA recall petition. Please speak up for our future generations. Dan Hula Creston

Volunteer made program stronger

The regular programs at Cresteramics have continued through the summer and the members are still enthusiastic about all that they participate in. Our Thursday afternoon music group joined in the singalong at the Canyon Street Walkthrough piano and had such a good time that they will be back. Join us there on Thursday afternoons. Four new artists are displaying and selling their creations at our Canyon Street store so stop by and have a look. Visitors to Creston have been very impressed with the range and quality of products for sale. I wonder if locals are aware of this opportunity to buy quality local artwork and crafts. I am going to take this opportunity to let you know about one of our strongest supporters who has recently passed away. Beth Kastelan served on the board of directors of the Cresteramics Society for well over 15 years. She was a strong

advocate of persons with disabilities, not just through Cresteramics, but through all she did. She devoted countless hours and her many connections to ensuring everyone had opportunities

Cresteramics Chatter Terry Nowak for employment, fulfillment and the chance to contribute. Beth was a lifetime member of CUPE, something she was very proud of, and her skills in this area assisted Cresteramics in the area of labor management. Our Cresteramics store was represented by Beth to the Creston Valley Business

Association. Her suggestions and support were big factors in the store being viable and successful. Beth's own store, Wear Withall, employed Cresteramics members whenever possible. From repairing the Cresteramics sewing machine to helping to develop enriching programs and activities for the members, Beth always contributed. Beth served on other boards and committees and her presence in the community is greatly missed. Cresteramics is a strong organization because of her contributions to us. Thank you to the businesses and individuals who employ our members, to the organizations that support us and to the people who include us in community activities. A special thank you to the Advance for the coverage that allows others to be aware of all the fun we have at Cresteramics. Terry Nowak is a board member of the Cresteramics Society.

Fun-raising and fundraising

Have you ever heard the term, “the dog days of summer”? According to the dictionary, it is the sultry part of the summer, supposed to occur during the period that Sirius, the Dog Star, rises at the same time as the sun: now often reckoned from July 3-Aug. 11. And, a period marked by lethargy, inactivity or indolence. No doubt because of the heat! Despite our desire for indolence as we find ways to relax and cool down, summer is also an active time for tasks, and when friends and relatives visit, prompting the urge to get out and enjoy the colour, beauty and features of our valley. At the Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors, this translates into what’s become a program we call Staycation, being organized by Jamie Pommier, our summer student. She has done a great job

www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca 7

The COVERAGE you need PROTECTION you can trust!

• • • • •

Travel Insurance Personal Insurance Business Insurance Auto Insurance Driver Ser vices

info@crestonvalleyinsurance.com

250-428-2294

www.crestonvalleyinsurance.com Located in the Creston Valley Mall 1000-7 NW Blvd Creston, BC V0B 1G6

Columbia Bottle Recycle We will be

CLOSED Saturday, August 30

“MOCHA” wishes you a happy Labour Day long weekend!

OPEN 9:30 - 4:30 Tuesdays to Saturdays 250-428-2929 • 1420 NW Blvd

THE SERVINGNAYS KOOTE 84 SINCE 19

Tips from TAPS

www.kokaneeford.com 1241 Hwy #3 Creston BC Phone 250-428-2206 1-800-262-7151 VSA Dealer #7429

1995 Dodge NEON

$3,495

of planning regular outings. For example, last week’s activities included a tour to visit the Harris family’s Kootenay Meadows cheese operation.

From the colourful decorations, mad hats and joyful sounds as three or four different games were going on, it was clear this was a party. Youth from Grizzly Bear Out of School Care got together with some seniors to make the hats and they were just fabulous, and there were no complaints about the food that Hans and his helpers turned out for the occasion. At one table, the conversation turned to what the seniors remembered about summer when Maureen Cameron they were children, and how they cooled off. One person was pretty clear about it: “We worked on a Sometimes, staying at the centre is farm on the Prairies and it was swelterwhere a whole lot of fun-raising happens. ing hot and you’d never ask to go for a For example, today I walked into TAPS to swim. The crop had to be taken in a room filled with youth and seniors and before the rain. Swimming in the creek a scene right out of the Mad Hatter’s tea was for evening time.” party — and that is exactly what it was. See FUN, page 8

Your FULL DEPOSIT Bottle Depot plus....

LOW LOW K/M CAR Includes A/C and Auto Stk# 11T381B

2005 Ford Freestyle AWD

$5,995 Stk# 14T629A Clean and ready for its new home. Versatile wagon with lots of cargo room and great for any family

Mike and J.R.’s

DEALS OF THE WEEK

Opinion Line

8 www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca

We had seven crystal singing bowls singing sons for that; vibrations moving through the in our worship at Trinity United Church in body are part of that renewal of energy. June. When the tones of a bowl got stronger Can we move through our days as if the some people said, “Oh, I felt a warmth go Creator spoke deeply in all creation? What kind through my body,” or, “My body feels looser, of respect for all things and person would that more relaxed now.” A couple of folks did expe- mean? How do we open to that healing love rience the sound as which we can bothersome. The neither control vibrations filled the nor own? room and affected us Using the all. If we’d looked to bowls was meant see what the cats outto help us think he reat ibration side were doing, I’m about and sure, like my cat, remember experiBy Shelley Stickel-Miles they would have ences where our come closer to listen; wellness was they often attract about integrating Trinity animals. The crystal body mind and United bowls were used in spirit. Our whole our worship to self is involved in Church remind us of all of our disease often, the incredible moveand therefore the ment of spirit and whole self is healing vibrations in our lives and bodies. needed for our healing too. Part of the great crime Spirit has consequence in our lives — we all of our residential schools taking away the tradiknow it, but we can’t see it. Spirit affects every- tional teachings about drumming and other First one like a moving vibration. Nations rituals is that it took away the great pracOur church intended to have a picnic event tice of healing and attention to a power greater outside at Centennial Park but due to wet than themselves that they developed over centugrass, cold weather and hovering gray clouds ries. There is so much that the early scientific age decided that we should opt for “easy” and stay couldn’t explain about the drums, yet they expein our hall, which regularly transforms into our rienced and were afraid of the power (the clash of sanctuary. The bowls sounded louder here than settlers and First Nations is a devastating history). they would have outdoors, I think. I would We humans can misunderstand each other in a have been tempted to make them sing louder myriad of ways. Can we understand community and longer in the outdoors for the sheer joy of and the world in this integrated way where when the connection. one suffers, all suffer? The vibrations and sound of each of the If the spirit of compassion moves through us seven bowls relates the energy of each of the as easily as the sound vibration of the crystal seven chakras in the body: the root or base of bowls, there is the possibility that people could the spine, the sexual chakra, the solar plexus, wake up out of the hypnotism of material glut, the heart, throat, third eye and the crown listen to each other, listen to different cultures chakra at the top of your head. The under- and different ways, expand our comprehension standing is that the vibrations encourage the of life and appreciation of many different body to rebalance and heal itself. It is not hard truths. Our compassion for the varieties of worfor our minds to imagine that certain vibrations ship and thanksgiving that exist, even here in work healing in our bodies. I’ll leave it to the Creston, might widen. reader to satisfy their own need for scientific This whole body, mind and spirit experience research (try “Healing Vibrations: The Medicine opens up a conversation about the wideness of of the Future” or “Cymascope”). truth that we cannot explain but yearn for. 1 Pythagorus postulated that vibrations Corinthians 13:12 says, “Now I know in part; would be the medicine of the future. Teachers then I shall know fully, even as I am fully have known instinctively for a long time that known.” If, like sound vibrations, the Holy the brain shrinks when people are afraid; there fully knows us, in, through and beyond this is now brain research to scientifically that dem- mystery that we are part of, then our thanksonstrates that shrinking. Likewise, it is not dif- giving is part of the movement of the Holy. Our ficult to find experiences that make you think respect for one another and our sacred practicabout the healing effect of harmonious vibra- es are an honouring of the mystery. We can tions; I once had a friend who eased her back notice the respect and honour in each other, all pain from a bad car accident by listening to creation and all things, and therefore appreciharp music. Many choir members will tell you ate the Holy in all things. that they feel strengthened and relaxed after a Rev. Shelley Stickel-Miles is pastor of Creston’s choir practice, and though there are many rea- Trinity United Church.

GRASSLAND AND RANGELAND ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM

Call for 2014 Project Proposals The Grassland and Rangeland Enhancement Program (GREP) provides funds to persons and organizations wishing to carry out activities on Crown Land that will enhance Rangeland and Grassland values. The Program is funded by the Columbia Basin Trust and administered locally by the Kootenay Livestock Association. The GREP is currently accepting project proposals for consideration for the remainder of 2014 and for the upcoming 2015 funding year. The over-riding purpose of the Grassland and Rangeland Enhancement Program is to maintain and/or enhance grassland resources while meeting conservation, environmental and recreational objectives. Some examples of projects funded to date under the GREP include rangeland fences, protection of wetlands, innovative gates and cattle-guards, restoration of damaged areas, interpretive and educational signs and invasive plant management. Applications are open to associations or societies, individuals, range tenure holders or partnerships across the Columba Basin Region. For more information, or to make an application, please contact The Kootenay Livestock Association located at 212 – 1525 Cranbrook Street North Cranbrook, BC V1C 4H7; E-Mail: kla@kootenaylivestock.ca or Phone 250 426 4315 or contact: Steve Byford, GREP coordinator at 250-919-9209, mailto:stevebyford86@gmail.com. Project Sponsored By:

Thursday, August 28, 2014 Creston Valley Advance

Project Administered By:

Submitted

Members of Creston’s Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors having fun with kids from Grizzly Bear Out of School Care.

Fun at TAPS

From page 7 Another talked about ice cream being sold for 10 cents; it was a brick, and you got a slice of it. Then other memories spilled out, about 25 cent movies, for example, and talk of what you could get for five cents. On the fundraising side of things, we’ve applied for grants to the Vancouver Foundation and New Horizons for Seniors and we’ve been brainstorming on smaller local events — to be announced. Finding ways to be financially sustainable is a reality, as we all know, to find diverse ways to support services such as this, and we do appreciate each and every effort and generosity. Speaking of heat, and a different kind of fun, it’s not only the seniors that get to play. For the staff one day last week, though, it was serious play. Imagine a blazing hot day, a

diesel fire in a barrel and Eric Graham decked out in protective gear — and add in five “extinguisher newbies” and hands-on practice (despite our initial trepidation), along with clear information. We spent an hour at the new fire training centre in Creston with Eric, who is the public safety compliance officer for Creston Fire Rescue. It was an effective session, learning or getting a refresher on everything we needed to know about fires. As part of the fire and safety training aspect of working at TAPS, it really was a useful session. In addition to adding to the safety of everyone and the buildings at TAPS, most of us also went away motivated to reviewing our home situations. I highly recommended it for any group; contact Creston Fire Rescue at 250-428-4321. Maureen Cameron is the community liaison development co-ordinator for the Therapeutic Activation Program for Seniors.

TV Listings

Creston Valley Advance Thursday, August 28, 2014

Your TV Guide Legend

SERVING THE CRESTON VALLEY SINCE 1948

TV RATINGS:

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 48 49 50

11 9 13 10 19 12 22 3 8 6 23 14

15 18

2 54 64 81 224

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 48 49 50

11 9 13 10 19 12 22 3 8 6 23 14

15 18

2 54 64 81 224

(CC) = Closed Captioning for the Hearing Impaired (N) = New Programming EI = Educational/Instructional DVS = Descriptive Video Services for the Visually Impaired HDTV = High Definition Television iTV = Interactive TV PA = Parental Advisory SS = Closed Captioned in Spanish CI = Cable in Classroom HEADPHONES = In Stereo

MPAA RATINGS: NR = Not Rated G = General Audiences PG = Parental Guidance Suggested

8 AM

8:30

9 AM

9:30 10 AM 10:30 11 AM 11:30 12 PM 12:30

Canada Weekend Marilyn Denis Children Cash Written Gas SportsCentre ’ The Social Å Good Morning KOMO 4 News Hanna Ocean Explore Rescue Wildlife Expedi Football Football Chica Noodle Justin Tree Fu Lazy English Premier League Soccer Goal Pregame Football KIRO News 2014 U.S. Open Tennis Men’s and Women’s Third Round. (N) (Live) Å Morning News News News English Premier League Soccer Goal Pregame Football English Premier League Soccer 2014 U.S. Open Tennis Men’s and Women’s Third Round. (N) (Live) Å English Premier League Soccer Misplays Blue MLB Baseball New York Yankees at Toronto Blue Jays. Saturday Morning News (N) Å Fish’n Fishing Boat TV Driving Noon News Hour Ella the Jelly Upside PAW Magic Maya Wild Martha Re Finding Animals Animals Animal Super Artzooka Cross Absolutely Doc Zone ’ the fifth estate ’ Recipes Stefano Adven. DFlyTV Biz Kid$ On Spot Coolest Eco Co. Paid Paid Paid Paid Paid PreCNN Newsroom With Fredricka Whitfield (N) News CNN CNN Newsroom Tattoo Tattoo Tattoo Tattoo Tattoo Tattoo Bar Rescue Bar Rescue Bar Rescue Flea Flea Flea Flea Flea Flea Flea Flea Flea Flea Flea Flea Criminal Minds ’ Flipping Boston (N) Flipping Vegas (N) Extreme Builds (N) Storage Storage Storage Storage Love It or List It Will Will Will Will ›› “Serendipity” (’01) John Cusack. Love It or List It Alien Nerds Chucks Rabbids Sponge. Monsters Sanjay Bread Turtles BeyWar. Pokémon Power CBC News Now With Michael Serapio CBC News Now With Christine Birak From Toronto. (N) Å ›› “The Philadelphia Experiment” NCIS “Seek” ’ NCIS “Squall” ’ NCIS ’ NCIS “Berlin” ’ Licence to Drill Mayday Å Bering Sea G. Mayday Å Mayday Å Megaspeed Hotel Hell Å Hotel Hell Å Hotel Hell Å Hotel Hell Å Hotel Hell Å Hotel Hell Å Undercover Boss Undercover Boss Undercover Boss Say Yes Say Yes Say Yes Say Yes Say Yes Say Yes Criminal Minds ’ Criminal Minds ’ Criminal Minds ’ Criminal Minds ’ Criminal Minds ’ Criminal Minds ’ Johnny T Looney Tom/ Adven Legends Dragons › “Yogi Bear” (’10, Comedy) Å Johnny T Rocket Gravity Wizards ANT Shake It Good Austin Dog Jessie Liv-Mad. I Didn’t “Adventures” Browns Atl. Eats Office Shark! ›› “Just Like Heaven” (’05) ››› “Seabiscuit” (’03) Jeff Bridges Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Chopped ’ Å Chopped ’ Å Chopped Canada Chopped ’ Å Chopped ’ Å Chopped ’ Å Paid Paid Liquida Liquida Air Race High. Air Race High. Air Race High. Air Race High. Pawn Pawn Pawn Pawn Pawn. Pawn. American American Biker Battleground American Pickers Stargate Universe Fanboy Egos Panic Button ’ Wizard Wars ’ Face Off ’ Å The Last Ship ’ Rifleman Rifleman Hell on Wheels (:01) ››› “The Outlaw Josey Wales” (’76, Western) “Air Force One” Disaster ››› “48 HRS.” (’82) Nick Nolte. ’ ››› “Beverly Hills Cop” (’84) ’ ›› “Beverly Hills Cop II” (3:00) CTV News Weekend ’ Å CTV News Weekend ’ Å Little Mike Zack Octo Max, Rby Big Caillou Cat in Babar Mike Umi This Is (6:00) Weekend Morning News (N) Fish’n Adven Boat TV Driving Ancients-Badly Canadian Simpson Woodwr’t Michigan Out Mag. Geta Steves Antique Roadshow Antiques Martha Cook’s Kitchen Sara’s Punjabi Gurbani Watno Dur ’ Gaunda Punjab Believe Waqt 4 U Virasat Quran Peace Words Mike Annie Spirou Doigts Gawayn Erky Magi Mission Oniva Épicerie TJ Monde (6:00) Saturday Morning News (N) Fish’n Adven Boat TV Driving Ancients-Badly Canadian Simpson VideoFlow Å Greatest Video Greatest Video Greatest Video Greatest Video Greatest Video “Creature-Black” (:10) ››› “Bram Stoker’s Dracula” (’92) Å (:20) ››› “The Fifth Element” (’97) 10,000 Spécimen (7:55) Soccer Ligue 1 (N) (En direct) Hôpital vétérinaire Saga Bhutto Journal Le Qué Dangerous Drives Stunt Stunt Cameras The 600 NASCAR Racing NASCAR Racing

7 PM

SYMBOLS:

SATURDAY MORNING / AUGUST 30 7:30

Transform Your Life. Be Your Potential!

PG-13 = Parental guidance strongly suggested for children under age 13 R = Restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying adult or supervision.

(TV-Y) = appropriate for all children (TV-Y7) = appropriate for all children ages 7 and up (TV-14) = May be unsuitable for all children under 14 years of age (TV-MA) = Mature audiences only (D) = May contain suggestive language (L) = Course Language (FV) = Fantasy Violence (S) = Sexual Situations (V) = May contain violence

Anita Horton, Sales Coordinator 250-428-2266 sales@crestonvalleyadvance.ca

7 AM

www.crestonvalleyadvance.ca 9

Jasmine Lothien

Professional Counsellor D.V.A.T.I., B.C.A.T.R.

250-402-3262

Free Meditation Workshops

SATURDAY AFTERNOON / AUGUST 30

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 48 49 50

1 PM

11 9 13 10 19 12 22 3 8 6 23 14

15 18

2 54 64 81 224