Vernon Morning Star, February 03, 2016 by Black Press Media Group

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Wednesday, February 3, 2016 P R O U D L Y

S E R V I N G

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BUILDING ON TARGET LISA VANDERVELDE/MORNING STAR

The old Target site continues to be transformed into the new home of Canadian Tire which will become B.C.’s largest Canadian Tire store. The Vernon store is looking for 50 candidates to build, set up and stock the retail floor, as well as experienced staff to lead the teams, and will host a job fair Saturday at the Village Green Centre from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Ski coach sentenced to eight years LEVI PULKKINEN SeattlePI.com

A ski coach at a Seattle private school accused of secretly recording nude teen girls on a trip to the North Okanagan has been sentenced to eight years in federal prison. Bush School ski coach Jason Paur was arrested in the Okanagan after he was caught making videos of Bush School students during a trip to Silver Star Mountain Resort. Initially charged in Canada, Paur, 44, faced federal prosecution after he was returned to the United States. Paur pleaded guilty in November to a reduced charge while admitting to violating the privacy of nine girls. He will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison. Having worked for the Madison Valley private school for more than 15 years, Paur coached the Bush School cross-country running and skiing teams. He and the co-ed cross-country ski team were at the Vernon resort for a five-day training session when he

was arrested on Dec. 11, 2013. Paur’s crimes didn’t begin that ski season. The multi-sport coach had been a voyeur for at least a decade, assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Vaughn told the court, and was first accused of peeping in 1997. Offered a chance to speak during Tuesday’s sentencing hearing, Paur poured his heart out to the collection of students and parents gathered at the Seattle courtroom. Jason Paur “I breached such a fundamental trust,” Paur told some of those he’d hurt. “For the rest of my life, I’ll never be able to forgive myself,” he continued. Paur appeared to be crying into his hands minutes later while hearing from two of the teen girls he’d preyed upon. One recalled Paur teaching her “lessons no 17-year-old should

ever have to learn.” “I’ve lost so many people,” she told her former coach, “because you’ve taught me how dangerous trust is.” Prosecutors had asked that Paur be sentenced to 10 years in prison, the maximum. Paur’s attorney requested a four-year term, half what U.S. District Judge John C. Coughenour imposed. Paur was undone Dec. 10, 2013, when a chaperone on the trip to Silver Star contacted the RCMP. Three girls had found a video camera hidden in their bedroom. The girls, aged 14 to 16, initially thought the camera was a prank, but then, on viewing the recording, saw Paur setting up the camera in the bedroom of other girls on the trip. An officer arrived and confirmed what the girls told their chaperones. The officer arrested Paur just before 2 a.m. and he was subsequently charged in Canada. Federal investigators searched Paur’s home in Seattle’s Green Lake neighborhood the day

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after his arrest. They found five cell phones, a laptop, two cameras and three hard drives. They also recovered 31 flash drives and 99 mini-digital video cassettes. One video seized from his home showed a 17-year-old girl changing during a school ski trip in 2011, a Homeland Security Investigations agent said in a sworn statement. The video also showed Paur, who was engaged to marry at the time, setting up the camera. Two other videos taken during a 2012 ski trip also showed two girls changing. The girls were identified and determined to be 14 and 15 at the time. Paur, again, was caught on video recovering the camera. According to the agent, Paur also recorded girls at Bush School. Paur is shown on the November 2013 video setting up the camera minutes before the girl entered the room to change; he returned seconds after she finished to recover the camera. Vaughn noted that Paur preyed on girls just entering the adult world. He broke the trust placed in him time and time again.

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A2 Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - The Morning Star

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News

Suspects nabbed with goods ROGER KNOX Morning Star Staff

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Timing is everything. Ninety minutes after her vehicle was broken into, and a number of items, including clothing, were stolen, a Vernon resident noticed a man and a woman walking in downtown Vernon wearing exactly the same clothes that had been taken from the car. Vernon RCMP received a report Saturday at 11 a.m. that a vehicle had been broken into while parked near 29th Street and 29th Avenue. “The rear window of the car had been broken,” said Vernon RCMP Const. Jocelyn Noseworthy, adding that the incident occurred an hour and a half before the complaint was received.

Numerous items were taken from the vehicle, including clothing, change and a backpack. At approximately 12:30 p.m., the victim spotted a man and woman in the downtown area wearing items stolen from the vehicle. “The person whose vehicle was broken into had given us a list of everything that was taken and it matched exactly what the two suspects had.” The 30-year-old man and 26-year-old woman, both from Vernon and known to police, were arrested and were to appear in Vernon Provincial Court Monday. Police are reminding the public not to leave any valuable items in your vehicle.

Hummer stolen ROGER KNOX Morning Star Staff

Vernon RCMP are investigating a theft of a vehicle from outside a Vernon gym Sunday. Shortly after 11:15 p.m., an unknown man entered Snap Fitness, in the 5300 block of 25th Avenue, and stole a set of car keys and, subsequently, the vehicle – a blue 2006 Hummer H3 – itself. “We were able to get a description of the suspect from witnesses,” said Vernon RCMP Const. Jocelyn Noseworthy. The man is described as between 20- and 30-years-old and wearing a baseball cap and white sweater. Anyone with information regarding this matter is asked to call the Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP at (250) 545-7171 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477.

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Vernon RCMP are looking for a man who broke into a 27th Street business. Shortly after 12:15 a.m. Sunday, an unknown man broke into Lester’s Hobby Shop, in the 4400 block and stole two remote controlled 4x4- style vehicles, valued at approximately $600 each. “There was video surveillance, though it wasn’t working, but we were able to determine that it was a man involved,” said Vernon RCMP Const. Jocelyn Noseworthy. Entry to the shop was gained by prying open the back door.

News

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Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - The Morning Star A3

Mardi Gras Carnival ready to rock Vernon Jennifer Smith Morning Star Staff

It’s time to get the party started! A sea of gold, green and purple will be filling the streets, local venues and businesses as A Mardi Gras Carnival gets underway this weekend. The 56th annual Vernon Winter Carnival kicks off Friday with the opening of and viewing of the B.C. Championship Snow Sculpture Competition, Hot Air Balloon Fiesta taking flight (weather dependant), the Balloon Glow (which has been moved to Kin Race Track and starts at 5 p.m.) and Suds N’ Cider. Friday marks the first of 10 full days of more than 80 Carnival events, ranging from Mardi Grasthemed parties to a Kids Karnival, a chilling dip in Kalamalka Lake, a tea party and much more. “Only 20 of those, I believe, are paid events, the rest are free,” said Deb White, Carnival chairperson. So far, tickets are flying out the Carnival office doors this week as people rush to get in on all the fun. “Dinner theatre is sold out for Friday and Saturday nights and Wednesday and Thursday nights are getting pretty tight,” said White. “jopo houses are filling up nicely and so is Irish Pub night. “Tickets sales are moving so if

morning star file photos

A Mardi Gras Carnival starts Friday with the 24th annual Hot Air Balloon Fiesta taking flight, among multiple events everyday through to Feb. 14, including the parade which takes place Saturday at noon. you want an event get in now if you don’t want to be disappointed.” There have been some Carnival casualties as White regrets to announce that the Snowflake Ball has been cancelled (but will be back in 2017) as well as Mardi Gras at Bourbon Street. Meanwhile this year’s parade is

expected to be one of the most colourful on record with close to 100 entries taking on the theme. “I think it’s going to be a very colourful parade. Everybody is embracing the theme this year,” said White, noting a lot of gold, green and purple and a lot of the blues. But before setting up your lawn

chairs downtown to watch the parade at noon Saturday, the public is invited to grab a $5 breakfast burrito beforehand in the White House Mortgages parking lot. After the parade, the public is also invited to take in all the talents of marching bands, drill teams, singing and dancing at Bandarama,

Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Vernon Rec Complex. Events continue throughout the weekend, which is extended thanks to Family Day on Monday, which will be celebrated in Polson Park with a full day of free fun from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. “There will be a huge bouncy globe in the park for kids to play in from Milk West,” said White, also noting games, face painting, broom ball, bonfire and more. The lineup of activities continues throughout the week with everything from hockey to a kids dance party, blues festival, burlesque and more. Also roaming the streets, on the eye for party poopers, will be the Carnival Cops. “If you want to have your boss or co-worker arrested just send in the form,” urges White. “We’re also looking for themes for next year’s Carnival.” Volunteers are needed to pull the many facets of Carnival together, including those interested in being jopo or jopette. “And we’re always looking for fresh, new members or board members,” said White. For more information, including a full list of events, visit the Carnival office at 3401 35th Avenue or vernonwintercarnival.com.

Grand opportunity prevents royal appearance national interviews. Traditionally, Hill-Turner Queen Silver Star LV is would crown the new Queen bowing out of a royal tra- Silver Star, and she regrets dition as she not being able to pursues a valuattend her final able opportunity royal duty. towards her edu“The timing cation. couldn’t be any Alicia Hillworse,” said HillTurner won’t be Turner, who has able to attend the spent the past year Proclamation and serving as ambasCoronation of Alicia Hill-Turner sador for Vernon Queen Silver Star alongside Princess LVI Thursday as Hannah Vaz. “But she heads to Toronto for the they, the board, have been Loran Scholars Foundation really supportive.” Jennifer Smith

Morning Star Staff

Hill-Turner was one of the record 4,273 applicants the Loran Scholars Foundation received this year. She is also one of the 80 finalists chosen to attend national interviews in Toronto, which she flies out for on Thursday. “I was nominated by my school,” said Hill-Turner, who attends Aberdeen Hall. “Each school can nominate one person.” After national interviews, 30 Loran Scholars will be selected. Each Loran Award is valued at up to $100,000 over four years, including an

annual stipend and matching tuition waiver, access to summer internship funding, a weeklong Outward Bound expedition, annual retreats and forums, as well as personal mentorship. “So it’s a really big scholarship and it will basically pay for my whole undergraduate degree,” said HillTurner, who will be studying bio-medical engineering and hopes to also obtain her MBA. “I want to run my own lab where I can create prosthetic limbs and organs so I

can give to society to ensure people have a better quality of life.” In her absence, Princess Hannah Vaz and Vernon Mayor Akbal Mund will be crowning the new royalty. The proclamation gets underway at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Performing Arts Centre. It is the conclusion to the excellence program for the seven candidates taking part. The top three finalists from the talent showcase will perform, scholarship winners will be announced and Vernon’s new ambassa-

dors will be crowned. Tickets are $20, available from the candidates, Ticket Seller and at the door.

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Index

Arts.......................A10 Classifieds.............A28 Editorial..................A8 Letters....................A9 Lifestyles...............A12 Sports...................A23 Vol. 28 • No. 91 — 36 Pages

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Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - The Morning Star A5

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Spall eyes slight tax hike Budget proposes 2.5 per cent rise ROGER KNOX Morning Star Staff

Spallumcheen residents will face a small tax increase this year. Council was presented with the first draft of the proposed 2016 budget which includes a 2.5 per cent tax increase. “That’s for the municipal portion of taxes only, that we collect,” said township chief financial officer Amy Vienneau. “We collect 61 per cent for municipal purposes and 39 per cent we collect for other government bodies (regional hospital district, Regional District of North Okanagan, school tax, library, municipal finance authority and BC Assessment).” The 2.5 per cent tax proposal would bring in $82,802, which increases the proposed revenue to nearly $4.8 million for general ($4,283,188) and policing ($435,406). “This is a property taxation increase of $54.64 based on the average assessed single family residence of $253,729. The budget draft also includes $1,154,478 for Spallumcheen’s share of the Armstrong Spallumcheen Fire Hall expansion, $915,000 for capital road projects, $300,000 for a new

plow/gravel truck and $13,000 for upgrades to the municipal office. Council will also consider nearly $23,000 in grants-in-aid requests to local organizations including Hullcar and Deep Creek Hall Society ($9,277), O’Keefe Ranch ($3,000), Caravan Farm Theater ($2,500), Armstrong Spallumcheen Museum and Arts Society, Armstrong Spallumcheen Trails Society ($2,000 each) and requests ranging from $500 to $1,000 for the Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce, fire

department, Medical Equipment Loan Cupboard, Great Pumpkin Run and Walk and North Okanagan Minor Hockey. The chamber and museum have also requested fees for service in the amounts of $8,500 (chamber) and $9,750 (museum). Council has also asked that three-year terms be prepared for both fees for service providers. Council will also consider giving themselves a pay raise that would put them in line with similar-sized municipalities. The mayor’s stipend would

go from $19,369 to $24,812 while councillor’s pay would rise to $13,506 from $9,685. The complete draft can be found on the township’s website, spallumcheentwp.bc.ca. “At any time, the public can offer or give comments,” said Vienneau. Council will be presented with a second draft of the proposed budget at its committee of the whole meeting Monday, March 14. Three readings of the proposed final bylaw will be read April 18 with adoption slated for May 2.

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A6 Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - The Morning Star

Hired Equipment Registration Okanagan Shuswap District

The Okanagan Shuswap District of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure is creating its list of registered Equipment for Hire for the fiscal year of 2016/2017, which begins April 1, 2016. This district geographically covers the area from the United States border, east to Osoyoos, west of Princeton and north of Salmon Arm. All individuals or companies registered in 2015 will have received invitations by mail to re‑register hired equipment for 2016. If you have new equipment to be added to your profile, you can register online at www.bcbid.ca or contact the District Office in Kelowna to obtain the appropriate forms. Any individuals who were not registered in 2015, but wish to have equipment listed are hereby invited to contact the District Office, either in person or by phone, to obtain the appropriate registration forms. Note that while you do not need to have Commercial (Comprehensive) General Liability Insurance or up‑to‑date WorkSafe BC coverage to register, you will have to meet these requirements prior to working on any ministry projects. Only owned or lease‑to‑own equipment is eligible for registration. Equipment may only be registered in one area in any given year. Seniority is not transferable from area to area. The deadline for new registrations is midnight on Wednesday, March 18, 2016. Late registrations will be accepted, but may appear at the bottom of the open list. Note that there is no charge for registering new equipment, or for changing or deleting equipment information already listed.

Register through the Okanagan Shuswap District Office at: 1358 St. Paul Street, Suite 300, Kelowna, B.C., V1Y 2E1 You can also phone 250 712-3660 or send a fax to 250 712-3669 to have the forms mailed or faxed to you.

www.vernonmorningstar.com

Village proposing modest tax increase Lake Country Calendar Summerland Review Similkameen Spotlight Keremeos/OK Falls Review Vernon Morning Jennifer Smith Star SalmonStar Arm Observer Morning Staff Sicamous Eagle Numbers mayValley be a News bit deceiving Penticton Western Newsget their 2016 when Lumby residents Salmon tax bill. Arm Shuswap Market The village is proposing a 2.3 per News cent increase, but Shore due toNews the offset Salmon Arm Lake of the Chronicle Regional District of North Oliver Okanagan building inspection service, Osoyoos Times which Lumby is taking on, the increase may appear higher. 5.81” X total 6.07”will be higher than that “The because of the transfer from the region340district, lines ” said Mayor Kevin Acton. al (4 columns x 85 lines) “But at the same time the tax requisition for the regional district should show a decrease.” A total of $10,001 is being collected to offset the cost of the building inspection service. “That should not impact taxpayers,”

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said Jeremy Sundin, Lumby’s director of finance. “It’s a shuffle on the line.” Acton is looking forward to the benefits of bringing a building inspector on board in Lumby. “It will be pretty quick compared to all sharing a building inspector. And it will help us be a little more developerfriendly for the Village of Lumby moving forward.” The new position will also assist as a number of projects are on the books for 2016 in Lumby. The village will also be hiring a parttime staff member for public works. With the additional staff, and the aging village office, some renovations will be taking place. Approximately $25,000 will be spent on an office configuration and new flooring in the building.

New city website golden Morning Star Staff

BRIGHT HORIZONS BUILDING FOR SKILLS

News

MoTI Ad 1129 AOKSH Hired Equipment

The City of Vernon’s new website, developed by Upandup Studios, has received the AVA Digital Gold Award. The new site includes enhanced fea-

tures such as interactive maps, image gallery and improved search functions. Users can also subscribe to receive city updates including notice of upcom-

Tax News

from Dean Chapple at H&R Block The Family Tax Cut is now in its second year. It allows a couple with at least one child under the age of 18 to claim a non-refundable tax credit equal to the tax savings that would be realized by transferring up to $50,000 of taxable income from the higher-income to the lower-income spouse or commonlaw partner. However the maximum claim is limited to $2,000. The tax credit is calculated on new Schedule 1-A and claimed at new line 423 of the Schedule 1. For more information on the New Family Tax Cut come in and talk to one of our Tax Specialists. Vernon • #100, 2901 32nd Street • 250-549-3332 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-5

ing meetings, career opportunities and news releases. “We are proud to see this recognition of the city’s efforts to better communicate with our residents, businesses and visitors,” said Tanya Laing Gahr, communications officer for the city. “Our goal was to create a site that was attractive, user-friendly and informative, as well as one that reflects this fantastic community. This award is an indication that the industry believes we are moving in the right direction.” AVA Digital Awards is an international competition that recognizes outstanding work by creative professionals involved in the concept, direction, design and production of media that is part of the evolution of digital communication.

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North Okanagan WEATHER FORECAST For the latest weather on-line, visit the Weather Office at

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Wednesday

A few flurries High 0°, Low -2°

Thursday

A few flurries High 4°, Low -1°

Friday

Chance of a shower High 4°, Low 0°

Saturday

Snow-rain showers High 5°, Low -4°

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News

Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - The Morning Star A7

Fruit growers pick Steele BARRY GERDING Black Press

Kelowna orchardist Fred Steele has been reelected for another term as president of the B.C. Fruit Growers Association. Steele, who was being challenged by BX fruit grower Jeet Dukhia, said he was relieved the campaign was over. “It starts about mid-November and continues until the convention vote. It’s about seven weeks of mayhem,” Steele said. “You have to get organized, find out where your support is or might be, figure those things out before you decide whether or not to take a run at it.” Steele said he expected a Fred Steele close election and that Dukhia ran a strong campaign. “I think this is the third time he and I have run against each other now. He ran a good, tough campaign and I respect that,” Steele said. Looking forward, Steele says the fruit growing industry faces a more optimistic future in the short-term after many years of hard times for orchardists across the Okanagan Valley. “Last year was the first time in 32 years that our industry didn’t shrink, which says someone has confidence about something or that (downward trend) would have continued,” Steele said. That optimism, he says, is a combination of many factors, starting with successful inroads being made for selling premium cherries and apples to South Asian markets. He says finding financial support from provincial and federal government agencies for such

things as replanting and crop insurance are an easier sell when the BCFGA is bringing an optimistic message to the table. “If you keep talking about how everyone is going broke and the world is coming to an end, those government agencies start looking to other groups to help them out instead,” he said. “They listen more when you come to them from a more positive direction.” Steele said he was hesitant to call the Okanagan fruit growers completely unified, as there remains a streak of independence evident among many local growers. “In some areas we are unified, and some areas we are not,” he said. “But it’s important for the whole industry to come together and act as leaders.” Steele said competition should always be welcomed among growers, but sometimes the industry needs to stand together to present a unified voice when advocating for support of the industry. In his speech to the BFGA members gathered at the Ramada Hotel convention room in Kelowna on Saturday, Steele described the BCFGA president’s position as one that requires patience, vision, diplomacy and optimism. “You have to pick your fights, know when to stick your feet in the mud and when to back off. You need to have good judgement,” he said. “As an industry, we need to come together to find common interest solutions.” Also elected to the executive, all by acclamation, were vice-president Pinder Dhaliwal, north district representatives Sukhev Goraya, Surjit Nagra and Tony Nijjar, and south district representatives Ravinder Bains, Sukhdeep Brar and Peter Simonsen.

Derkaz leads Liberal board

Morning Star Staff

Salmon Arm’s Cindy Derkaz has been elected president of the North OkanaganShuswap Federal Liberal Association. Derkaz, who finished second to Mel Arnold in the October 2015 riding election, was elected at the association’s annual general meeting held at the Enderby Seniors Complex. “I envision a team with renewed energy and commitment,” said Derkaz. “The association will be active in the community and consult with residents of all political persuasions from one end of the riding to the other.” A number of North Okanagan residents were elected to the executive including Vernon’s Gord Adams (treasurer), Tom McKenzie (secretary/ data manager) and Mavis MacPherson of Enderby/ Armstrong (membership). They join Karen Angove (vice-president), Monica Kriese (communications/marketing), Don Derby (fun-

draising chair), Michael Boudreau (policy) and Lynda Wilson (organization) of Salmon Arm on the executive, along with Sorrento’s Don Paterson (regional vice president). Elected as directors at large from the North Okanagan include Lisa Kongsdorf and Heywood MacDonnell of Vernon, Anja Langstraat of Armstrong, Bill Tayler of the North Shuswap, and Chad Shipmaker of Salmon Arm. Non-elected members of the executive

include Rod Drennan (past president) and Eli Vlahos (youth commission) of Vernon, Gloria Morgan of Enderby (aboriginal people’s

commission) and Salmon Arm’s Kailey Cannon (women’s commision) and Sandra Stanley (seniors commission).

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REGIONAL DISTRICT OF NORTH OKANAGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held in the Board Room of the Regional District of North Okanagan, 9848 Aberdeen Road, Coldstream, B.C. on Wednesday, February 10, 2016 at 4:00 p.m. to hear representations on the following matter[s]: SILVER STAR OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN AMENDMENT BYLAW NO. 2694, 2015 (REGIONAL CONTEXT STATEMENT) This Bylaw proposes to amend the Silver Star Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1925, 2004 to include a Regional Context Statement. The Regional Context Statement identifies the relationship between the Silver Star Official Community Plan (OCP) and the Regional District of North Okanagan Regional Growth Strategy. The purpose of the Silver Star OCP is to provide objectives and policies to guide decisions on planning and land use management within the community of Silver Star. The purpose of the Regional Growth Strategy is to ensure that growth and development in the North Okanagan takes place in a sustainable and consistent manner. Copies of proposed Bylaw No. 2694 and relevant staff report[s] may be inspected at the office of the Regional District of North Okanagan between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding Statutory holidays. You may provide input: By e-mail: publichearing@rdno.ca prior to 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 10, 2016 By LETTER: to the address provided below, please ensure that letter is received at the RDNO office prior to 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 10, 2016; or In Person: Attend the Public Hearing to present submissions. Be advised that: 1. Your name and residential address must be included with your submission; and 2. Written submissions are subject to public disclosure. PLANNING DEPARTMENT 9848 Aberdeen Road, Coldstream, BC V1B 2K9 Phone: 250-550-3768 / Fax: 250-550-3701 NO SUBMISSIONS ON THE ABOVE BYLAW WILL BE RECEIVED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOLLOWING THE CONCLUSION OF THE PUBLIC HEARING

A8 Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - The Morning Star

Opinion

Marijuana laws in legal limbo

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The North Okanagan’s Community Newspaper Published Sunday, Wednesday, Friday The Morning Star, founded in 1988 as an independent community newspaper, is published each Sunday, Wednesday and Friday morning. Submissions are welcome but we cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited material including manuscripts and pictures which should be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. ENTIRE CONTENTS © 1988 MORNING STAR PUBLICATIONS LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Competing demands

nfortunately the world isn’t black and white. Somewhere in the middle is grey. A good example of this is the recent debate among Vernon politicians over a proposal to turn a chunk of designated farm land into houses. Coun. Juliette Cunningham was visibly upset as a majority of her colleagues agreed to send an exclusion application to the Agricultural Land Commission for 3.8 hectares at Pottery Road and 15th Street. “I’m discouraged we are not considering the preservation of farm land,” she said. “When you look at Richard Rolke climate change, there’s the possibility of growing and doing other things on that property.” And Cunningham is right to ring alarm bells. After all, there is very little agricultural land left in the Okanagan compared to even 20 years ago, and with every additional piece that disappears, local communities lose the ability to feed themselves. We become reliant on food from California, Asia and elsewhere. Also gone are the economic opportunities that agriculture can provide to a region where jobs are scarce, particularly if value-added products are pursued. And there is the reality that climate change is happening and a piece of land that isn’t currently productive may play a key role in sustainability in years to come. Cunningham accused the rest of council of being short-sighted. “It opens the door for everyone to come and do the same thing,” she said. However, as correct as Cunningham is, there is validity to the other side of the issue.

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Some of her colleagues made the case that while there is a surplus of residential building lots in Vernon, most of them are for highpriced homes, and the property on 15th Street would be for more modest incomes. “It’s a natural progression of the community. It’s smart growth,” said Coun. Brian Quiring pointing out that the land is within a short distance of schools and stores and city services, such as water and sewer, are right at the property line. There’s a lot of talk about trying to attract young families to Vernon, but if all that’s available is housing for retirees or those with a few extra bucks in their pocket, they will bypass the city. There is also the case that in my almost 26 years here, I don’t ever remember any crops on the property or even cattle grazing. It’s largely overgrown and election signs sprout on the corner every time we head to the polls. The most contentious statement during the political debate came from Coun. Scott Anderson, who countered city staff ’s recommendation not to forward the application to the ALC. “The official community plan is a guide more than something chiselled in granite,” he said. Yes, considerable public input went into crafting the OCP and establishing a vision for the community. But while those principles shouldn’t be abandoned, OCPs are not intended to stall development. They are living documents that reflect changing needs in a community and property owners have the right to pursue different uses. In the end, the discussion over a piece of property demonstrates the competing demands elected officials must contend with. For every decision made, there will be winners and losers and only time will demonstrate if they made the right choice.

Though it was an election promise, Justin Trudeau’s Liberals aren’t going to be able to legalize marijuana overnight. In fact, the legalization of pot might take longer than the four years they are guaranteed before the next federal election in Oct. 2019. Undoubtedly, the federal government would like to get started on this promise, since it’s worth millions of tax dollars every year. But when you consider what they already have on their plate, what with ISIS, Syrian refugees, assisted dying and, oh yes, the economy, it’s understandable that legalizing pot might not be the top item on the Liberals to-do list. Still, the promise was made, and with pot already legalized in Washington and Colorado, there is a certain expectation that it is a promise they will follow through on. That leaves our police and justice system in a bit of a legal limbo. All the existing prohibitions are still in force, but police have had a hard enough time enforcing those and getting punitive judgments without the concept of legalization hanging over their heads, in addition to the limited legalization of medicinal marijuana. Medicinal marijuana is legal. But the interpretation of that law, which has seen marijuana storefronts open up across the country, needs to be clarified. Legalization and setting up the associated processes may take years, but in the meantime, the RCMP, courts and even municipalities need to know how to proceed. And this has to happen before more dollars are spent on what may prove unnecessary enforcement. Is a crackdown at this stage an effective use of resources? Instead, let’s set out a timeline of how this is going to happen and set some preliminary regulations for licensing and regulation of sales. Black Press

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Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - The Morning Star A9

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Fiscal water woes continue to drip

e've been water boarded. Don’t believe me? Just check your recently mailed quarterly utilities invoice for Oct. 1, 2015 to Dec. 31, 2015. Amnesty International says water boarding is torture. So does the United States Supreme Court. That’s why, when the CIA wants to water board prisoners, it keeps them outside America in Guantanamo Bay. But that’s physical water boarding; ours is fiscal and the torture is to our wallets. Greater Vernon Water utility has refined their local technique of water boarding (with the rubber stamping connivance of RDNO political appointees) into an esoteric art form that gouges the pocketbooks of each and every one of us. In 2010, we were charged a base fee of $50.17 per quarter that included up to 10 cubic metres of water at no additional charge. Our base fee then was in the upper quartile of normal municipal practice and the amount of water included was in the lower quartile. A bit pricey for what we got but still not totally out-of-whack with what other cities were doing. Our latest base fee has jumped to $101.80 per quarter, it does not include a single drop of water and that is for a commodity that is absolutely essential for life. That’s $407.20 to Greater Vernon Water per annum for Sweet Fanny Adams. That is the fiscal water boarding you and I are being subjected to. It makes Greater Vernon Water unique. It puts us completely off the charts. It is unlikely FACE THE CHALLENGE In a recent letter, the author wrote that Al Gore, who developed the theory of human-caused global climate change was not a scientist but a politician. However, an extremely brief web search would show that Mr. Gore was not only a scientist but won a Nobel Prize for his theory. The author can plainly do a web search as he next used a web reference to research began in 1957 in Russia. By using carefully culled research you can 'prove' just about anything. To really understand the global climate change issue, you need a consensus of all of the world's climate scientists. Fortunately, we have just such a consensus. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is a scientific intergovernmental body under the auspices of the United Nations.

that any other city in Canada charges so much for so little. And, have you heard? It isn’t going to stop ... our water utility has just asked for another two per cent raise. Speak up now or forever hold your peace. Shake off your voter complacency and become outspoken. Greater Vernon Water and their political enablers are counting on your lack of participation to let them serve their wants rather than our needs. Are you going to continue letting them soak you for millions to treat water to drinking quality standards then spray it on such low value crops as hay and silage corn? Are you going to stay mute when you see overhead crop irrigation occurring on windy or hot sunny days when most of it goes to waste? Well, if you do not speak up my voice will just be lost in the wilderness as was that of Coldstream councilor Gyula Kiss. Seems that with regard to water our plutocratic and politico mantra is to either ignore or give the squeaky wheel the boot. That’s led to us being water boarded and why it is necessary for you and me to take action if we want it to stop. Defeating the water referendum was not sufficient. We need to put a stop to the indecisive dithering and get a solution. Juliette Cunningham and Jim Garlick preside over what happens to water. Make sure they hear your voice. Jim Bodkin

They have presented five very conservative reports and several special focus reports. There are no cherry-picked 'facts' here. Instead, everything in the reports is carefully documented and double checked. I highly recommend everyone check out the latest report for themselves at bit. ly/1O4798K. Even skimming it by reading the highlights will give folks a good basic grasp of the issues. We are faced with enormous global scale challenges. It's up to us to turn the challenges into opportunities. We can't face them while we are still in denial. It's time to face this challenge united and to get busy. Leo Joy

Build a water treatment facility straight up from Kal Lake on a section of the existing forest research property across from Okanagan College. Pump the water out of Kal Lake at the existing pump house, run it up the hill, treat it and pump it out from there. It's on the top of a hill so the gravity distribution shouldn't be a problem. It's close to town and not way up on a mountain way out of town. Its accessing water from Kal Lake so we wouldn't have to share the water rights with other Okanagan communities. The lake is very deep so the pipe can be run deep to avoid the zebra mussels that are apparently on their way. We live on two massive lakes (one that can probably be seen from space) and we seem to think that building holding ponds and treating the water way up on a mountain somewhere is a good

SIMPLE SOLUTION? Here is my 'simple' solution for fixing the water problem in Vernon.

Valentine Love Lines

idea. A 100 years ago this was a necessary to utilize gravity to distribute the water but surely we can move this closer to town in this modern world of pumps and electricity. This is just my simple idea, I'm sure I'm wrong and the good letter writers of Vernon will let me know but it seems sensible to me. Let's take a step back and look at the situation, KISS keep it simple... Brock Penner RESEARCH NEEDED Vernon city council is actually considering spending $7.2 million, possibly $11 million for a 500-foot extension to the airport runway? After city staff did not recommend it? Who is asking for or recommending this extravagance? Who will benefit? We need more information before this goes too far. Chris Clayton

■ The Morning Star is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province's newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, P.O. Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C. V9G 1A9. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www. bcpresscouncil.org

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A10 Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - The Morning Star

Arts

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Vernon about to enter Mardi Gras Mayhem Ya’ll head down to NOLA for this year’s Winter Carnival dinner theatre show

Kristin Froneman Morning Star Staff

Okanagan Lake may be a long way from the blue bayou, but that doesn’t mean we can’t indulge in a spicy jambalaya mixed with some good juju. For ya’ll who’ve never been buried in beads, eaten a King cake, or paraded down the streets barring nothing but a slide whistle, it’s time to “laissez les bons temps rouler”(that’s let the good times roll) at this year’s Vernon Winter Carnival. This year’s theme, you guessed it, is Mardi Gras, and everyone will be feasting on some New Orleans’ fun and hospitality without having to worry about the Canada-U.S. dollar exchange rate. One event that is adhering to the theme full stop is this year’s dinner theatre production, which is once again being produced by Vernon’s Backstage Theatre at the Schubert Centre. Written and directed by Vernon’s very own Michael Poirier, with music direction by Julie Armitage, the production promises to have music, masks, and mayhem. This year’s Carnival theme played right into Armitage’s hands as she visited New Orleans last year with Vancouver’s City Soul Choir, of which she is a member. “As you can imagine Mardi Gras is a big deal down there, so it was

Kristin Froneman /morninG star

Gus Hansen, left, Catherine Hansen, Paul Lawson and John Lomas rehearse a scene from Backstage theatre’s Mardi Gras Mayhem. this year’s Winter Carnival dinner theatre presentation takes place at the schubert Centre Feb. 10 to 13. perfect in deciding what to do with this year’s show,” she said. “We wanted to use elements of New Orleans in the play: the music, the setting of an old hotel, ghosts and voodoo.” “We always like to play up the theme and usually we like to make the setting for our plays local, but this one begged to be set in New Orleans,” added Poirier. Entitled Mardi Gras Mayhem, the play is set during NOLA’s famed Fat Tuesday festival, with most of the action taking place in the lobby of the Grand Historic Creole Hotel. Once a grand Victorian era establishment, the hotel has fallen into disrepair and is managed by Miguel François Smith (played by John Lomas). Miguel’s ex-wife, Gabrielle (Betty Ann Northup), who happens to be a voodoo priestess,

enters the scene and is hounding her former husband for support payments, while their son, Otto (Gus Hansen), is working as a bell hop as slave labour. Then there’s businessman Clark Simpson (Neil Morrison), who has booked into the hotel but does want anything to do with Mardi Gras, and a Canadian couple from Vernon, the Frantopolowskis (Paul Lawson and Catherine Hansen), who have arrived at the hotel without luggage and are still wearing their toques, mitts and parkas. “When Mardi Gras fever takes over, the Canadians can’t understand the concept of why everyone is taking their top off,” said Poirier, adding that their icy indifference soon melts, without full exposure. Also entering the madness is abrasive Mme. Brasseau (Lesley McCoy), who has already been kicked out of one hotel, and man-

ages to check herself into the Grand Creole, where she takes a shine to the businessman. Mischief ensues when a trio of spirits from the underworld haunt the guests. The Naked ghost (Pascal Belanger) died from a heart attack while partying hard at Mardi Gras, while the Wallet ghost (Michael Wardlow)is a notorious pickpocket and passes his findings around. Then there’s the Little Girl ghost (Samantha Henri), who likes to play tricks on the guests. And they all sing, well except for the Naked ghost who can’t wear a microphone, jokes Poirier. All will be accompanied by a live band featuring Betty Johnson on guitar and banjo, Gerhard Traxel on guitar, Connie Traxel on drums, Ellie Young on bass and Wendy Aronyk on percussion and flute.

Armitage will lead and join the band, playing one of the sliding whistles she brought back from her trip to New Orleans. Her experience not only exposed her to the big brass of the music scene and some newer talents, but to Mardi Gras culture. The play features big bandstyle standards by Satchmo (Louis Armstrong), along with zydeco and jazz by artists such as Kermit Ruffins and John Boutté. “Some songs will be familiar, while some will not,” said Armitage. “One of the songs we’re doing is (Shamarr Allen’s) Meet Me on Frenchman Street, which talks about how the locals fire up the barbecue on the street late at night... If you go to Frenchman Street it is what Bourbon Street used to be before it became all touristy. It’s just music constantly.” Adding to the atmosphere is the food. Schubert Centre chef John Fournier plans to cook up an authentic New Orleans feast for the buffet dinner. “We hope everyone comes for the whole experience,” said Armitage. “We have an amazing crew from the set decor to the stage managing. Everyone is working hard to make this the best play,” added Poirier. Mardi Gras Mayhem runs at the Schubert Centre Feb. 10 to 13. Both the Friday and Saturday shows are now sold out. Limited tickets ($45, includes dinner and show) are still available for the Wednesday and Thursday shows and can purchased at the Winter Carnival office, by calling 250-545-2236 or order online at www.vernonwintercarnival.com.

Band brings more swampy sounds from the Big Easy amanda morazain For The Morning Star

The Vernon Jazz Club is getting a second helping of hot Louisiana gumbo when Gary Comeau & The Voodoo Allstars return to the stage this Saturday night. This multi-talented group of musicians, who have been nicknamed “Swamp Kings from the West Coast,” are playing New Orleans-style roots and blues to another sold-out crowd at the club. Comeau performs an array of instruments, including vocals, fiddle, mandolin, piano, accordion, and guitar, and will be joined by Tim Hearsey on vocals and guitar, Jerry Cook on sax, Dennis Marcenko on vocals and bass, and Chris “The Wrist” Nordquist on vocals, drums, and percussion. Comeau and the band have a recipe for their unique Louisiana gumbo sound. It’s filled with spicy Louisiana Cajun and zydeco, silky New Orleans jazz and R&B, gritty Chicago roots and blues, saucy Cuban, and a salty dash of east coast

Acadian folk. Blend this together with an influence of musical greats like Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, and Miles Davis and you’ve got a sound that you will never forget. Since the late ‘90s, Comeau has released four albums: The Hunger, Gary Comeau, Letters From Eve, and Live at the Dream Café. His song Marianne was featured in the movie Double Jeopardy starring Ashley Judd and Tommy Lee Jones. Another, I Think About You All the Time, can be heard in the film Wise Guys. Comeau & The Voodoo Allstars were a part of the B.C. Fire Relief Benefit which was put on by CBC TV and radio to raise money and awareness for the victims of the 2003 wildfires. The band was also featured on Holger Peterson’s Saturday Night Blues. Hearsey’s songs can be heard in both film and television. He co-wrote the Juno award winning album That River with Jim Byrnes. Cook has recorded more than 20 albums

with blues, jazz, funk, pop, rock, and R&B artists. He has toured with The Powder Blues Band and Colin James. Marcenko has recorded and performed with k.d. lang, Colin James, Jerry Doucette, and John Lee Sanders. His sound can also be heard on the compilation Absolute Blues. Nordquist has toured with musical greats like John Lee Sanders, David Vest, Tiller’s Folly, The Sojourners, and Jim Byrnes. Local keyboardist and vocalist Brandon Schmor opens the show. Schmor was one of eight performers selected to play at the North Okanagan Youth Showcase of Excellence (NOYSE) Sunday in Vernon and he also plays with The Keys, a high-energy band that gigs around the Okanagan. Gary Comeau & The Voodoo Allstars, with opening act Brandon Schmor, hit the stage at the Vernon Jazz Club (3000-31st St.) Saturday. Doors open at 7:15 p.m. This show is sold out. Cash only bar. This event is sponsored by Expressions of Time.

Photo submitted

Gary Comeau & the Voodoo allstars bring some Creole spice back to the Vernon Jazz Club saturday.

Wednesday, February 3, 2016 - The Morning Star A11

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Morning Star Staff

A local all-female choir is about to serenade audiences just in time for Valentine’s Day. The provincial award winning Ancora Women’s Ensemble, presents Heart Songs Feb. 12 at All Saints Anglican Church in Vernon. The 15-voice adult choir, with members from Vernon and the Shuswap, has been singing together for four years under the artistic direction of Terry Logan, an accomplished teacher and choral director from Armstrong. Ancora will deliver an eclectic repertoire of music, which Logan says is sure to please the most discerning listener. “We will be performing Canadian works for women’s choir and contemporary classical pieces, a Broadway show

tune, a modern musical setting of a seventh century biblical text, and also premiering a harmonically adventurous piece written specifically for Ancora by nationally acclaimed composer Jean Ethridge, who resides in Salmon Arm,” said Logan. Accompanied by Jim Johnston, a well known pianist from Salmon Arm, Ancora is welcoming two guest artists: Elizabeth Johnson, a Vernon resident and retired physician, who will perform on Celtic harp, and Diane Jewell, a local First Nation drummer. The latter will perform Ancora’s interpretation of the song Warrior, composed by Kim Baryluk of the Wyrd

Sisters. “It is inspired by issues facing women in Canada, in particular indigenous women,” said Logan. “It is a message from women to women about strength and solidarity.” Ancora takes the stage at All Saints Friday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15, available at Courtview Dental in Vernon, from choir members, by calling 250546-9921, or at the door. Those under 12 will be admitted free of charge. VERNON

JOB FAIR

SAT FEB 6 9:30AM - 2:00PM AT

VILLAGE GREEN CENTRE 4900 27TH ST. VERNON

Mariachi returns

El Mariachi Los Dorados heralds the advent of spring with its annual concert tour of the Okanagan. The band is still riding the crest of its most recent recording, Si Tu Te Vas, and welcomes back core members, Armstrong native Diego Kohl on the guitarrón, Mark D’Angelo on trumpet, and band leader Alex Alegria on vocals and guitar. Presented by Ken Smedley, El Mariachi Los Dorado’s North Okanagan dates include the Zion United Church Hall in Armstrong March 16 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are at Chocoliro (250-546-2886). The band also performs at the Okanagan College Vernon campus theatre March 19 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are at the Bean Scene (250-558-1817).

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A&E

8:00

Choir sings from the heart

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SPK

Evening 7:30

Photo submitted

Ancora Women’s Ensemble performs Heart Songs at All Saints Anglican Church Feb. 12.

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7:00

Chicago P.D. “Hit Me” (N) ’ Å (DVS) Code Black “Diagnosis of Exclusion” (N) Å The National (N) ’ Å

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KOMO