Tuesday, February 3, 2015 Musician Boris Sichon gave Highland Park students a sampling of sounds from around the globe.
Page A10 • LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT • mrtimes.com • 604-463-2281 • 16 PAGES Federal politics
Kamp bowing out of politics
The local MP announced at a Conservative association’s annual general meeting Saturday that he’s not seeking a fifth term. by Roxanne Hooper
rhooper@mrtimes.ocm
Troy Landreville/TIMES
Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows director of recreation Wendy McCormick and facility operations manager Michael Millward stood inside the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre’s aquatic area on Monday afternoon. The pool area was closed Friday and then on Saturday morning to allow repairs to be done, after a 50-plus foot section insulated metal storm pipe fell onto its deck.
Recreation facilities
Falling pipes force pool closure
A 50-foot section of metal piping fell on the pool deck at Maple Ridge Leisure Centre Thursday night. by Troy Landreville tlandreville@mrtimes.com
Maple Ridge Leisure Centre’s aquatic area was closed all day Friday and on Saturday morning, after a section of pipe fell onto the pool deck. But since repairs were completed and thoroughly checked over, it has been business as usual in the leisure centre’s pool area. Sometime early Friday morning, a 50plus foot section of insulated metal storm pipe fell onto the pool deck in the wing of the leisure centre that was expanded in 2000 – on the west side of the facility
$12
224 &
th
Haney Place Mall (Food Court)
south of the large waterslide. al engineer inspected the work and gave Staff discovered the collapse at 5:30 the all clear to open up the pool area. a.m. Friday. The wade pool will remain closed while A short time later they closed the tile repair work “sets up,” however the entire aquatic facility – asking existing rest of the pool will be open. patrons to leave. “It’s all been checked over,” “We can now report McCormick reiterated that the pipe was a storm Monday. water drain pipe [about “We received written “There is no danger two inches in diameter] confirmation from a struc[to the public].” that moves water from tural engineer that it was Wendy McCormick the roof of the expanded safe to let the public in at section to the storm 1 p.m, Saturday. There’s water system,” a City no danger [to the pubalert stated earlier in the day Friday. lic], not at all. The only work still to be “This type of piping is only present completed is replacing a few pool and in this section of the pool, and does deck tiles and installing new roof drains. not affect the balance of the facility,” Other than that it is complete.” explained a report by director of recreaCity spokesman Fred Armstrong tion Wendy McCormick. refuted Facebook rumours that the entire On Friday night, the repairs were comfacility was falling apart. • More at www.mrtimes.com, search “pool” pleted. On Saturday morning, a structur-
UP $10,000 TO CASH BACK (OAC)
6” Sandwich $4 12” Sandwich $6
WITH THE PURCHASE OF ANY NEW OR PRE-OWNED VEHICLE
Classic Sandwiches Only • Expires March 31, 2015
•
604-463-3663 • 11969 - 224th St.
• More at www.mrtimes.com, search “Kamp”
ASK US HOW YOU CAN GET
CLASSIC DEAL
604-380-1890 • 11900 Lougheed Hwy
Randy Kamp has informed the Canadian Prime Minister he’s leaving federal politics. The Member of Parliament for Pitt Randy Kamp Member of Parliament Meadows-Maple RidgeMission announced Saturday that he will not be seeking reelection this fall, citing a health issue as one factor in his decision. Kamp will, however, continue serving as the local MP until the election. “In recent months I’ve had a growing sense that it was time to move on to another chapter of my life,” he said after the annual meeting of the local association for the Conservative Party of Canada. Kamp, 61, has been the local MP for the past four terms. He first entered the arena of federal politics 18 years ago, when he became the executive assistant to his predecessor, Grant McNally – MP for the former federal riding of Dewdney-Alouette. He was then elected to the office in 2004. “Time flies when you’re having fun, but this chapter has become quite a long one, and I think it’s time to turn the page,” said the MP who also serves as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans. Speaking to his health issue, the MP explained that his hearing suddenly began to decline about four years ago, first in one ear and then the other, to the point where he has profound loss in the left and severe loss in the right. “Some might say that I’m deaf in one ear and can’t hear out of the other. I admit that it has made doing the job more difficult – in fact, it’s made life more difficult – but with the help of some technology I’ve learned to cope pretty well, and I don’t think any physical disability should disqualify you from being a Member of Parliament. So it wasn’t the primary factor in my decision,” Kamp elaborated.
Westgate Centre
CALL 604.465.8931
Connect With Your City
CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE pittmeadows.bc.ca facebook.com/pittmeadows @citypittmeadows
A2
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Warm Hearth HOT WINTER
REBATE
SAVE $600 UP TO
ASK US FOR DETAILS! 11834 - 226th St., Maple Ridge 604-467-2200 www.warmhearthheating.ca
ONLY UNTIL FEB. 23RD WINNER BEST FIREPLACE STORE!
Your fireplace specialist...
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
UpFront
A3
Transportation
Click
Promises don’t assuage council
for community
A presentation from TransLink Monday did little to sway council views on an upcoming taxation referendum.
mrtimes.com
Drug trafficker jailed
by Cole Wagner
A 30-year-old Maple Ridge drug pusher will be jailed for five years. Christopher Leigh Harmes was arrested in his Garden Street home, and pleaded guilty last fall to two counts of possession of methamphetamines and fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking, not to mention firearms offences. He was sentenced Friday. • More at www.mrtimes.com
Maple Ridge council moved one step closer to a united voice on the upcoming transit tax referendum Monday, after listening to TransLink executives deliver a pitch Monday. The proposed 0.5-per-cent tax increase would be dedicated to improving transit around the Metro Vancouver area, including Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. Those changes were outlined in a 10-year plan created by the Mayors’ Council on Regional Transportation last year. If residents vote yes on the
editorial@mrtimes.com
referendum next month, Maple in Albion wasn’t included in the Ridge could see “immediate” 10-year plan. improvements to existing transit “We can look at that – it might service, according to Mike Buda, need a year or two, but we can executive director of the mayors’ look into that,” responded Robert council. Paddon, a TransLink vice-presHowever, the new ident. B-Line express bus to “It was a commitCoquitlam, improved ment,” Robson shot West Coast Express back. (WCE) service, and the Coun. Corisa Bell expansion of bus service asked why the demand to Thornhill and Albion for afternoon service of would not roll out for WCE hasn’t been met. three to five years. Paddon explained A number of councilthat an afternoon train Gordy Robson lors remained skeptical wouldn’t see enough Councillor of TransLink’s ability to riders to pay for the deliver on their promcost, but adding another ises, especially within the promorning train would help to ease vided timeline. the morning service, which is Councillor Gordy Robson’s operating above capacity. questions highlighted the City’s Coun. Craig Speirs told the tumultuous history with the tran- delegation that he too was leansit corporation. ing towards a ‘no’ vote, and Robson wanted to know why a wondered why the possibility of previously promised WCE station a bus line to Mission hadn’t been
explored. Coun. Kiersten Duncan echoed the desire for more transit options to Mission. Though Mission pays a fee to TransLink for the WCE operation, the district resides outside the Metro Vancouver border, and would be unaffected by the proposed tax increase. Last December, Mayor Nicole Read was one of three mayors to vote against pushing the plan to a referendum. At a council meeting on Jan. 27, she said the 10-year plan and the accompanying tax hike would be a “tough sell” to Maple Ridge residents. She echoed those comments during Monday’s meeting. “I think many residents are sitting in a position where they are inclined to vote ‘no,’” said Read. Council is now expected to ponder taking a unified stance on the referendum.
Dorotos contest TIMES files
Back in 2011, emergency crews blocked off part of downtown Maple Ridge after a man was discovered stabbed multiple times.
Twins’ ad airs during Super Bowl
With help from brother Nelson, Graham Knifing earns jail time Talbot has created an ad that was seen by more than 100 million people. A 50-year-old former Maple Ridge
woman will spend three months in prison for stabbing her boyfriend back in 2011. Teresa Marlene Shayler was sentenced last week in B.C. Supreme Court on the charge of aggravated assault, Justice Robert Crawford giving her 90 days in jail for the drug-fueled stabbing. • More at www.mrtimes.com
National award won The Canadian Arts Presenting Association (CAPACOA) has named the Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Arts Council’s own Lindy Sisson as the 2013Lindy Sisson 2014 presenter of the year. Award winnner Sission is also the executive and artistic director of The ACT. The award was announced during CAPACOA’s annual awards gala, in Halifax, NS. • More at www.mrtimes.com Discover the joys of flora and fauna in our rural areas. Liz welcomes questions at g.hancock@ uniserve.com
River Talk by Liz Hancock
Welcome the mosses Environmentalist and TIMES columnist Liz Hancock shares some insights into that pesky moss that clings to our roofs, covers our trees, and overruns our lawn. She goes beyond its hindrances and tell us some good things it brings to life. • More at www.mrtimes.com
by Troy Landreville
editorial@mrtimes.com
More than 100 million viewers around the world saw a pig fly in Aldergrove on Super Bowl Sunday, thanks to some digital magic and the ingenuity of filmmaking twins from Maple Ridge. Graham Talbot, with help from his twin brother Nelson, created the 30-second advertisement When Pigs Fly which aired during the big game between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks. Because the ad was shown during the Super Bowl, the Talbot twins took home home $50,000 US as part of Doritos’ Crash the Superbowl Contest. This is the first time a consumer-created Doritos ad by a filmmaker from outside of the US has won the competition and aired during a Super Bowl, the NFL’s annual championship game and one of the mostwatched television events in the world. The grand prize winner, whose ad also aired during the game, was Los Angeles resident Scott Zabielski, whose commercial Middle Seat garnered the most fan votes on www.doritos.com, thus earning top honours in this year’s contest. Zabielski was awarded $1 million US to go along with a job working at Universal Pictures in Hollywood. Graham’s submission in the was among 10 finalists selected from nearly 4,900 entries from 29 countries. Only one other Canadian entry made it to the final.
Profiled by The TIMES last month, the Talbot twins from Maple Ridge worked together to create the 30-second Doritos’ commercial When Pigs Fly, which aired during Sunday’s Super Bowl. In the commercial, a bespectacled boy asks the lad his bag of Doritos. a farmer named Ralph if he could have one All of the finalists were invited to sit in of his Doritos. a private suite during the game when two “Sure,” Ralph answered with a dismissive ultimate winners would be announced and shrug, “when pigs fly.” their commercials aired. The boy narrowed “We were all on pins and needles and his eyes, rubbed his no one knew anything,” Graham said. “We chin, ideas churning were just in a box and they only tell you in his head. [the news] 10 minutes before your ad comes He worked up. I just exploded. I was shaking with through the night to excitement and holding back tears.” build a homemade Talbot said that getting to the finals had rocket, which he already netted him $25,000. strapped onto the All in all, “it’s not quite enough to do animal’s back. everything and move out of my parents’ After launching house, but it’s still a pretty big chunk of the pig into the air using a remote control, money and it will allow me to pay back the boy got his wish. people and takes a little pressure off.” Speechless at first, Ralph quickly hands – with files from the Vancouver Sun
A4
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Courts
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Backcountry excursion
Off-duty cop Chopper plucks cold hikers from ridge A search leader describes Friday’s charged in rescue in Golden Ears Provincial Park as a good news event. confinement by Roxanne Hooper
Ridge Meadows RCMP are investigating a domestic dispute case involving a fellow officer. by Roxanne Hooper rhooper@mrtimes.com
An off-duty Vancouver Police officer is due back in court Wednesday, after being arrested on allegations of assault and unlawful confinement in Maple Ridge. On the afternoon of Jan. 23, a woman showed up at the Ridge Meadows RCMP office to report she had been the victim of a domesticrelated assault at the hands of an offduty Vancouver Police officer. The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) was advised of the allegations, and in turn notified the office of the police complaint commissioner. That same night, Ridge Meadows RCMP officers went to the 34-yearold man’s home and arrested him. The officer has been a member of the force for 10 years and according to a release issued by VPD, he has been removed from front line duties pending the investigation. It would not be appropriate for the VPD to comment further on the RCMP investigation, a release stated.
FEBRUARY
2015
rhooper@mrtimes.com
A trio of hikers had to be airlifted off Golden Ears Mountain Friday morning. Members of the Ridge Meadows Search and Rescue team were called in to help pluck three young Maple Ridge men from the mountainside after attempts to propel to the peak were foiled by ice, explained Rick Laing, manager of the search team. The men set out mid-morning Thursday with the goal of hiking to the mountain summit in Golden Ears Provincial Park over a two- day period. After reaching Panorama Ridge on the north side of the mountain Thursday evening, they were cold, fatigued, and concerned about going any further up the mountain – through the snowfield – to the summit, given the icy conditions, Laing explained. While they took a tent, sleeping bags, warm clothes, food, and a stove, their footwear wasn’t up for the task, said the veteran rescue member. Two of them had casual hiking shoes, while the other was only outfitted with runners – which would have made climbing to the summit “not only difficult but potentially very dangerous,” Laing said. What added to the problem was a lack of experience, Laing said. He noted only one of them had ever climbed up to the summit, and that was during the summer. Fortunately, he added, the trio recognized the dangers.
10:30 Friday morning and delivered the men back down at the base of the mountain just minutes later. “Other than being a little cold, everyone was in good shape,” Laing said. “After a short discussion with them, they realized that they had made some errors in judgment by not having appropriate equipment and skills to climb Golden Ears in the winter.” While there is no simple checklist that exists to help hikers prepare for such a trek up to the Golden Ears summit, the local search team offer a few recommendations for hikers contemplating such a hike – especially during the winter. First off, Laing recommended people get involved in outdoor clubs, where they can Talon Helicopters was called in to help rescue three go out on a variety of different types of hikers in Golden Ears Provincial Park on Friday hikes in a group before venturing out on morning. They touched down at the site of the former their own or in smaller parties. parks headquarters, loaded up two search members, People should also to do some research then flew up to Panorama Ridge to find the hikers. and understand the topography they’re heading into and how it’s likely to change After a night hunkered down in an emergency shelter that exists on Panorama throughout the different seasons. And taking it a step further, he advised Ridge, they determined going further up people to talk to others who have hiked over the ice was impossible and even hikthe route in similar conditions, so they ing back down could prove hazardous can truly understand what given the slippery condito expect and how best to tions. “Other than being a prepare. “They did not feel it little cold, everyone Laing wants people to was safe for them to try enjoy this community’s backand traverse the snowwas in good shape.” country. But, before heading field, so they made the Rick Laing out into the wilderness, he correct decision to call implored folks to be fully the RCMP, who in turn prepared. paged us out this morning at 8:30,” Laing This, he said, was a good rescue. No elaborated on Friday. “Given the condione was injured, lost, or hurt. But if tions, it was the right thing to do.” people aren’t properly prepared, an enjoyFour local search members partnered able trek through the majestic parks in Pitt with Talon Helicopters to perform the resMeadows and Maple Ridge can turn dancue, touching down at the rescue team’s gerous and potentially deadly. staging area on Panorama Ridge at about
This month at The ACT
60°North: SHETLAND Now - February 28, 2015 Originally from Scotland, Vancouver-based painter Jeff Wilson shows work inspired by his sojourn at The Booth, an acclaimed residency program based in the Shetland Islands. Family Day Monday, February 9, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Join the Maple Ridge Festival of Light Society for a lantern-making workshop and the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Arts Council for a special craft. Bobs and LoLo Monday, February 9, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Bobs & LoLo are two-time JUNO nominated singer-songwriters and the dynamic duo regularly spotted on Treehouse TV in their upbeat, musical preschool series - Sing, Dance and Play with Bobs & LoLo. Sarah Slean Saturday, February 14, 8:00 pm Three-time JUNO Award nominee and international touring artist Sarah Slean is described by TIME Magazine as “one of the most compelling acts Canada has to offer”. Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada’s Piaf Sunday, February 22, 7:30 pm Piaf is an original ballet that explores Edith Piaf’s dramatic life shrouded in mystery, love, and tragedy
reflected in her authentic and life-inspired songs. GEMS: Tracks Monday, February 23, 7:30 pm The astonishing true story of Robyn Davidson, who in 1977 set out on a solo 2,700-kilometre journey by foot across the Australian Outback. Rated PG Classical Coffee Concerts with Sarah Hagen Wednesday, February 25, 10:00 am An up close and personal music experience with shared stories, musical insights, coffee and treats. With special guest Violist Tawnya Popoff Rock.It Boy Entertainment Presents Chilliwack Thursday, February 26, 7:30 pm “At their best, Chilliwack was the finest Canadian rock band, out-rocking BTO and out-writing Burton Cummings.” –Rolling Stone Magazine ALT Fest February 27 – March 1 Three dates, three unique experiences; a new arts festival for the adventurous! Discover new alternative performances and help support our community with a non-perishable food item donation for the Friends In Need food bank. Lobby Nights at the ACT Join us on select Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. for a free evening of entertainment.
Visit www.theactmapleridge.org for schedules. | Register at recreg4u.ca or 604-465-2470.
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Albion Flats
www.sd42.ca
Friends erecting memorial
Lougheed Highway east of Haney was shut down much of Thursday afternoon and evening, after a fatal crash on the Albion Flats.
Meadows RCMP Traffic Services and the Integrated Collision Analyst Reconstructionist Services (ICARS), she said. The crash and subsequent investigation forced the closure of the entire Lougheed Highway for a period of time, and the westbound lane until late by Roxanne Hooper Thursday night. rhooper@mrtimes.ocom “The investigators want to thank all who had to A small roadside memormake alternate plans, ial started taking shape on and were most certainly the Albion Flats this past delayed,” Dunlop said. weekend, as friends, famFerrier is described as a ily, coworkers, and even father, friend, paramedic, strangers began paying and soccer dad. their respects to an off-duty Friends and family of paramedic killed in a crash Ferrier are paying tribute to Thursday afternoon. him on various Facebook Emergency respondpages. ers were in shock when One friend, Pitt they arrived on scene on Meadows’ Lorie Muller, the Albion Flats to learn said: “Yesterday we lost the victim in the collision a great friend... How can between a motorcycle and a life be taken so quickly, semi was one of their own without warning?” – 43-year-old Ryan Ferrier. Iain McNicol wrote: While the cause of “Another person gone too the crash is still under soon.” investigation, police have Diane Speirs, wife Rick Moyer/TIMES confirmed the westbound of Maple Ridge City A roadside memorial for Ryan motorcyclist collided with Councillor Craig Speirs, Ferrier is taking shape in Albion, a semi trailer truck that described it as a “bad while funeral arrangements are still was turning left off the intersection.” being worked out with Garden Hill Lougheed Highway onto She knows of at least 105th Avenue at about Funeral Services. three people who have lost 4:20 p.m. their lives there. Police, firefighters, and fellow paramed“Maybe there needs to be a designated ics were all dispatched, but efforts to save left turn light,” she said, offering condolFerrier were unsuccessful, reported Ridge ences to Ferrier’s family and friends. Meadows RCMP Cpl. Alanna Dunlop. • More condolences and comments on the TIMES’ “This very tragic incident is being Facebook page thoroughly” investigated by Ridge
A5
INFORMATION MEETING
An innovative way of learning
CYBERSCHOOL
6 pm February 18, 2015 Alouette Elementary School 22155 Isaac Crescent, Maple Ridge http://schools.sd42.ca/cyberschool/
Students in the Maple Ridge - Pitt Meadows School District CyberSchool Program divide their time between in-class study and online learning from home. Join us for an information meeting on February 18th to learn about this exciting learning option! Registration begins 8 am Monday, February 23, 2015 @ Alouette Elementary 22225 Brown Avenue, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 8N6 Tel. 604.463.4200
www.sd42.ca
7 pm, February 4, 2015 Golden Ears Elementary (Activity Room) 23124 - 118 Avenue, Maple Ridge
LATE FRENCH IMMERSION
PA R E NT & ST U D E NT I N F O R M AT I O N M E E T I N G
Late French Immersion begins in grade 6. Students who are currently in grade 5 are eligible to begin Late French Immersion in September, 2015 at Golden Ears Elementary School. Come to our information meeting on February 4th to find out more. For more information, contact Shelley Linton at t. 604.463.7108 or e. shelley_linton@sd42.ca. REGISTRATION begins Feb 11, 2015 on a first come, first on list basis.
22225 Brown Avenue, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 8N6 Tel. 604.463.4200
A6
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Opinion Who we are The Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows TIMES newspaper is a division of LMP Publication Limited Partnership. We’re located at 22345 North Avenue, Maple Ridge, B.C. The TIMES has a CCAB audited circulation of 29,950.
Brian McCristall
bmccristall@mrtimes.com Publisher
Bob Groeneveld
bgroeneveld@mrtimes.com Editor
Roxanne Hooper
rhooper@mrtimes.com Assistant Editor Editorial Troy Landreville Eric Zimmer Advertising Ralph De Adder Graeme Ross Anne Gordon Sheryl Jones Distribution Supervisor Wendy Bradley Administration Rebecca Nickerson
Contact us Visit our Website
www.mrtimes.com Email us
editorial@mrtimes.com
Write us a letter
#2 - 22345 North Avenue Maple Ridge, B.C., V2X 0R7 Switchboard Classified Delivery Fax
604-463-2281 604-463-7283 604-942-3081 604-463-9943
Our View
Contributions appreciated Randy Kamp is setting his sails for the sunset. After four terms serving the local riding in Ottawa, the Member of Parliament for Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge-Mission is leaving federal politics and won’t be accepting a local Conservative nomination for the next general election. There will be some in the community who will be happy to see him go. We didn’t always see eye to eye with Mr. Kamp. For instance, most recently we had hoped he could have done more for the homeless in our community, particularly for the Iron Horse Youth Safe House whose funding cuts leave that facility in jeopardy – especially in view of the healthy pension that Mr. Kamp will receive at the expense of taxpayers when he steps down. While his government has made some strides towards fixing the MPs’ pension inequity, we still don’t see eye to eye with him on that, either. But that’s as it should be: it’s part of our job to keep the community’s public servants on their toes. He made light of his personal health problems – while noting his severe loss of hearing wasn’t his primary motivation – with his comment, “Some might say that I’m deaf in one ear and can’t hear out of the other.” But that jokingly proffered adage hit the nail on the head: it is the nature of politics that every time a politician does something – or doesn’t do something – somebody somewhere gets angry. To Mr. Kamp’s credit, there are plenty who have been deeply saddened by his announcement. No one wins four consecutive federal elections without doing something right. Over the years, he has worked hard for the community he has served at the federal level. We wish Mr. Kamp well. His many contributions to the community have been appreciated, as is his expressed intent to contribute further. – B.G.
This Week’s Question Are you looking forward to enjoying Family Day?
Our office is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
■ Your View Last week’s question, results…
The Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows TIMES, a division of LMP Publication Limited Partnership, respects your privacy. We collect, use and disclose your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Statement which is available at www.mrtimes.com.
I read to my kids a lot.
27 %
My kids read to me.
12 %
We read occasionally.
19 %
We don’t read as much as we should.
19 %
We have better things to do.
23 %
How often does your family read together?
The Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows TIMES 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 conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and complainant. If talking with the editor or publisher of this newspaper 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, 201 Selby Street, Nanaimo, B.C., V9R 2R2. For further information, go to www.bcpresscouncil.org.
Vote online at: www.mrtimes.com
Opinion
Super Bowl scores explained A bunch of guys trotted out kept getting the ball stolen from onto a big field with lines paintbetween his legs by the sneaky ed on it this weekend. guy flipped the ball back – quite They were wearing bright happily giving it up, it seems – colours – about half of them and the not-so-sneaky guy would wearing predominantly one colcatch it and kick it as hard as he our, and the other half wearing could. mostly another colour. And someone else would catch One guy kicked a ball. it, and everybody would run after Somebody else caught it, and him and jump on him. a whole bunch of guys ran after I should mention here, there him, knocked him down, and were always guys trying to jump by Bob Groeneveld jumped on him. on the sneaky guy and the not-soThen they all got in two lines sneaky kicker any time they had facing each other, with a couple of guys behind the ball in their hands. each line scuttling about like jitterbugs on a Come to think of it, there were all kinds of piece of hot tin. guys all over the field who seemed always to be One of the guys behind one of the lines kept trying to bash whoever had the ball and steal it looking around like he was about to do someaway from him. thing bad but didn’t want anybody to see him Football is a very rude game, I think. doing it. Nearly every time after the not-so-sneaky guy He grabbed the ball away from the guy in front kicked the ball, nearly everyone on the field of him and threw it, and another guy tried to would trot off the field, and a whole new bunch catch the ball, but other guys tried to get in the of big, brick-like guys would trot on and line up way of him catching it, and then jumped on him. facing each other, with mostly a whole new set Then they all got back into two lines facing of jitterbugs and sneaky guys behind them. each other, with the same jitterbug guys behind And then the whole bunch of them would start them… and they did it all over again. moving in the opposite direction – kind of like Sometimes, one of the jitterbugs caught the the way six-year-olds play soccer, except the ball, sometimes the ball was knocked down by large amorphous blob formed by the soccer kids one of the rude guys who kept trying to get in moves more smoothly, while these guys move in the way. jerky fits and starts. Sometimes – not as often – one of the rude Once in a while, when the blob got close to guys actually reached up and snatched the ball one end of the field or the other, the sneaky guy, for himself. instead of throwing the ball, would balance it And then everybody jumped on him instead. on the end of his toe, and the not-so-sneaky guy They all went through that rigmarole a few would boot it as far as he could. times, and then, instead of having the sneakyAnd then a guy in a stripy shirt would run out looking guy grab the ball from between the legs with both hands high up in the air. of the guy in the middle of the line in front of I think making that guy give up is how you him and throw it at one of his jitterbugs, a differ- score the points. ent guy – not quite as sneaky-looking – came out Apparently, they call it Super Bowl. to stand in his place. And hundreds of thousands of people – maybe This not-so-sneaky guy, whenever he came millions – eagerly watch it all happening. out, would stand back a bit, and the guy who I wasn’t one of them.
Odd Thoughts
editorial@mrtimes.com
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Traffic safety
Dark roads require extra attention
is now the third time this has hapDear Editor, Letters pened to me since we set the clocks My husky and I walk at least three to back in November. times a day, rain or shine. Our first the I would like to remind drivers to walk is usually between 6:30 and 7 take greater care when it is dark a.m. I always wear a bright reflective outside. There are people such as surveyor’s vest and my dog has on a Editor myself walking pets, heading to bus reflective, battery-operated blinking stops, going into businesses, all on collar, and he is always on a lead foot. Please pay attention when driving in beside me. the dark. If you are late for wherever you We had the signal to cross south over are going, try leaving five minutes earlier. Dewdney Trunk Road at 240th Street. Three close calls is three too many! As we were in the middle of the crosswalk a lady turned left, west onto Dewdney. Klaus Kahle, Maple Ridge She did not see us until I yelled at her. She Parks hammered her brakes, coming to a stop not three feet from us. If she had not stopped, we would have been all over the road. After she stopped, she went around us Dear Editor, and sped west on Dewdney – no apology. Growing up, one of my favourite places to As careful as I am when we walk, this hang out was Maple Ridge Park. After moving away and starting a family of my own, I still have fond memories of the park. Recently, I was able to return and thought What you’re telling us it would be a nice area to enjoy with my on Facebook young daughter: playing on the swings, skipping rocks into the river, sitting at the picnic tables, and having a snack. Poop bags are being pulled from local But I was disappointed by the amount of dog parks at a cost saving of $27,000, dog excrement around the park. As soon as but TIMES readers have strong opinions. my daughter stepped onto the grass from “It’s hard to believe it cost $27,000 a year to the parking lot, she hit a land mine, and supply four parks with bags! I can see dog again while walking both to and from the parks in the area getting a lot dirtier now, river to the playground. even with bags available a lot of people Dog owners are required to pick up after don’t pick up, it’s only going to get worse.” their pets. It takes two seconds to tie a – Morgan Bodner baggy around a leash. I understand you can’t toilet train a dog, but if you don’t “Everyone just considers the cost of the bags, like to step in land mines, what makes you but forgets the staffing costs to maintain think anyone else does? the program: $27,000 adds up real quick. Nicole Bedford, Maple Ridge Besides, this program seems like a courtesy
Pick up land mines
•
anyway. We should all be responsible dog owners the second we leave the house, and quit relying on others to make up for our lack of planning.” – Ryan Larocque
“To my knowledge, other cites in the Lower Mainland get free bags because people pay to advertise on them, costing the City zero dollars.” – Mikey Keogh “Just over 1,000 licensed, spayed or neutered, dogs in Maple Ridge would pay for the bags (the fee is $25. More if the dog is non-altered). I’m sure there are many more dogs than 1,000 in Maple Ridge. I guess the revenue from dog licence fees also goes to the SPCA. What else? It may seem like a lot of money, but I’m happy to pay for the $25 if I get the ‘free’ bags at parks.” – Jackie Chow “When I sat at parks and recreation table I brought up dog bag sponsorship which at almost every government conference trade show there is a company promoting this. Why this wasn’t discussed before making this decision really bothers me.” – Councillor Corisa Bell “That’s sad. I see so many owners with them but what if they forgot and want to do the right thing and pick it up? Be nice to have the bag available.” – Chrissy Bynuck “Yes and no. If you own a dog, it’s part of your responsibility to have the items necessary for cleaning up. But although there are times where people don’t realize they are completely out or forgot.” – Janessa Munz “Re-use grocery vegetable bags for dog poop. I have enough for two dogs at any time, and it doesn’t cost me a dime.” – Valerie Miller “Owners’ responsibility – can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen irresponsible owners. Dogs poop; owners should have bags in their pocket. Bottom line”– Teri Klohn James
Share your views. Like us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/MapleRidgePittMeadowsTimes
Parks
Parks needed to share
Dear Editor, What happened to local neighbourhood parks for everyone to share? There should be local parks for everyone to enjoy. A local park was cut in half almost three years ago and turned into a baseball park. But the space has been locked off and has not been used – not even for baseball. Land space is getting tighter, but people still need to be able to enjoy the outdoors. Francine Bearpark, Maple Ridge
MAPLE RIDGE FESTIVAL OF LIGHT SOCIETY
Pitt Meadows
Win-win situation lost
Dear Editor, Thanks to TIMES reporter Eric Zimmer for providing a balanced report about the Pitt Meadows council coming in at their goal of a zero per cent tax increase for 2015. The truth, which The TIMES reported but others did not, is that the 2015 budget could have come in at a mere 0.7 per cent increase, or about $13 per household, and still maintained the Pitt Meadows Economic Development Board. To me, that would have been a true win-win situation. The proposed tax increase dropped from 2.85 per cent (in October estimates) to 0.7 per cent was largely due to higher than expected growth, perhaps due in part to the support, strategy, and work of the PMEDB. Pitt Meadows was also a member of Invest North Fraser, and our seat at that table may well come into question, now that Pitt Meadows has no board. 2015 will be interesting as somehow the mayor has to find the time and energy to run the City, be chair of the economic development for Pitt Meadows, and run two law practices. Keep up the good, balanced reporting. Patricia Gordon, Pitt Meadows Letters on this page have been edited for space. For longer versions, or more letters to the editor visit... www.mrtimes.com – Click on Opinion, or search the writers’ names.
LETTERS POLICY: Copyright in letters and other materials submitted voluntarily to the Publisher and accepted for publication remains with the author, but the Publisher and its licensees may freely reproduce them in print, electronic, or other forms. Letters are also subject to editing for content and length. The Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows TIMES is a division of LMP Publication Limited Partnership.
Invites everyone to the 7 annual Festival of Light. th
Join us to celebrate the Arts, Culture and Diversity in our community.
Friday, February 27, 2015 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Haney Place Mall A FREE fun event for all ages with lantern making workshops & live entertainment (4 – 8 pm), poetry & lantern making contest and much more!
7:30 pm Lantern Parade For information – contact rg674806@telus.net or:
mrlanternfestival
A7
A8
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
February 2015
City Achieves 0% Tax Increase for 2015 Property Taxes
On January 21 and 22, City Council reviewed the budget set forth by City staff to finalize the projects for 2015 and the tax rate that will be applied to property taxes. After budget deliberations, City Council achieved a zero property tax increase and a zero utility fee increase for the average assessed single family home in 2015. Learn more about property taxes in Pitt Meadows! Residents are invited to attend a workshop on taxation on February 19 at Heritage Hall, beginning at 7pm. The presentation will be available afterward on the City’s website at pittmeadows.bc.ca.
Community Building & Engagement
Council in Committee
• Feb 10, 6pm
Regular Council Meetings
• Feb 3, 7pm • Feb 17, 7pm
Special Council Meeting
• Feb 24, 3pm
Watch Regular Council Meetings live online! Visit our website at pittmeadows.bc.ca and click on Council Meeting Videos under the Quick Links sidebar.
Governance & Policy
Transportation
Public Works & Safety
Join the Citizens’ Committee on Open Government. The Committee
Transportation Referendum. You may have heard about the upcoming referendum that will be put to residents in Metro Vancouver asking about adding 0.5% to the provincial sales tax to raise revenue for transit improvements throughout the region. Find out more about the plans and what it means for Pitt Meadows by visiting pittmeadows.bc.ca or movinginalivableregion.ca.
Clean Wood Disposal Ban.
Pink Shirt Day Feb 25. Bullying is a major problem in our schools, workplaces, homes, and over the Internet. But thanks to two students from Nova Scotia who noticed a fellow student being bullied for wearing a pink shirt, Pink Shirt Day has now become a nationwide acknowledgement of taking a stand against bullying.Wear your pink shirt on Feb 25, and learn more at pinkshirtday.ca.
will make recommendations to Council on possible ways to improve citizen interactions with City Departments and Council. Committee meetings will begin in February and be held on two Thursdays each month for three months from 7pm to 9pm. The size of the Committee is unlimited, and participation is open to all in Pitt Meadows. Please email pmopengov@pittmeadows.bc.ca or call 604-465-5454 with your name, contact information, and a brief statement explaining why you are interested in joining the Committee.
On January 1, 2015, Metro Vancouver launched a six-month education program on the new Clean Wood Disposal Ban at Metro Vancouver and City of Vancouver transfer stations and disposal facilities. Come July 1, 2015, a 50% surcharge will be applied to loads of garbage containing more than 10% clean wood. Visit metrovancouver.org for more information on the new Clean Wood Disposal Ban or call the Recycling Hotline at 604-REC-YCLE.
Council This Month
Council has released a list of items they would like to review during their upcoming term. The “Council Four Year Action Table” consists of over 80 items, including a broad range of topics from traffic calming to youth engagement. No decisions have been made about items on the list and whether they will be acted upon. The list can be viewed in the January 13 Council Meeting Agenda at pittmeadows.bc.ca. Council will be working on strategic planning and priority setting in February and March.
Go Green Food is Not Garbage. Metro Vancouver has imposed a ban on food waste in the garbage. In Pitt Meadows, we have curbside pickup for food and green waste, so continue using your green cart! Businesses and restaurants looking for resources on food waste can find more information at metrovancouver.org.
pittmeadows.bc.ca facebook.com/pittmeadows
@citypittmeadows 604.465.5454
What’s On
Main Streets: Harris Road – Feb 28: February is Heritage Month and this years’ theme is “Main Streets”. Our main street, Harris Road, has changed a lot over the last 100 years. Learn more about the survival of historic sites on our main street through their evolution. Join us at 1:30pm at the Library. For info call 604-465-4113.
Pitt Meadows Elementary Winter Carnival Friday, February 20 from 5pm to 8pm. Help support the school’s fundraising efforts at this fun family evening! Call 604-465-5828 for details.
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
&places
faces Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows
WE PAY CASH for Used Cars
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Call
A9
604.343.2036
Showcasing some of this community’s people and happenings
What’s On
www.mrtimes.com
Fay Owen of Maple Ridge cheered on the Seattle Seahawks with many of her friends at the legion on Sunday afternoon.
Post events 10 days in advance by email to:
editorial@mrtimes.com
Feb 3: Poets
Randi Overall of Surrey showed off his New England Patriots cap that he could not wear in the Royal Canadian Legion during the game Sunday. But he proudly sat it next to him while watching the action unfold on the television.
More Photos Online
www.mrtimes.com
Wearing her New En gland Patriots’ jersey Sunday, Maple Ridge Campos, joined Erin ’s Dawn Gouwenberg of Ald ergrove and Jocelnn Vancouver at the Ro Marud of yal Canadian Legio n Branch 88 to watch the Super Bowl. The Patriots be at the Seattle Seahaw ks 28-24.
• Holy Wow Poets host the Poets and Artist’s Extravaganza at 7 p.m. at The ACT: Theme: Let’s be Literally Keen to be Artistically Seen in 2015.
Feb 3: Youth Services
• Join a citizens services specialist from Service Canada to discover the many federal programs available for youth, ages 15 to 30. Hear about the federal student work experience program, Canada Student loans and grants, apprenticeship incentive, and completion grants, and the new Canada apprenticeship loan, starting at 6 p.m. at the Pitt Meadows Library.
Feb 3: Arts Club
• The next meeting for the Garibaldi Art Club is Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 7 p.m. in the craft room on the third floor of The ACT.
Feb 4: History
• Maple Ridge Family History Group meets at the Maple Ridge Library, in the Greenside room at 7 p.m.
Feb 5: Seniors - CORRECTION
Royal Canadian Legion executive member Margaret Kury (left) of Maple Ridge joined dozens of football fans who gathered to watch the Super Bowl Sunday.
le Ridge sen of Map Brent Knud d together an t ip ge ill ans who Tom McK ci si u m f me o p g a grou year, they ca were amon Bowl. This 88. er p ch Su n e ra B th for n Legion ia ad every year an C l the Roya together at
• Ridge Meadows Senior Society holds a Seniors Helping Seniors meeting at 9:30 a.m. in the library at Ridge Meadows Senior Activity Centre, 12150, 224th St.
Feb 4: Diecast
• Greater Vancouver Diecast show takes place at Pitt Meadows Heritage Hall, 12460 Harris Road. Admission: $4 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., $10 early-bird at 9 a.m., and $6 at 9:30 a.m. Kids 12 and under admitted free. 25 vendor tables full of diecast cars and trucks.
Feb 8: Memorial
How can you share?
Do you have a local photo of someone or some place you’d like to share with the rest of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows? Email it to us as a high-resolution .JPEG to editorial@mrtimes.com. Please include a brief description – including everyone’s first and last name. Put “faces & places” in the subject line of your email.
Elizabeth Coughlia and Asha Dutt, both of Maple Ridge , enjoyed the Super Bowl game while selling tickets on a meat draw Sunday at the Royal Canadian Legion.
• Photos by Rick Moyer •
• A memorial tribute and musical celebration of life for Judith Bergthorson takes place at The ACT from 4 to 8 p.m. Open to anyone who knew Judith or is involved with the Bergthorson Academy. Memorial will feature singers, instructors, students, and artists from the academy.
• Full list: www.mrtimes.com, search “What’s On”
A10
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Carrier of the week Heidi Wilson Congratulations on doing a fantastic job. As winner of one of our Good Sport Awards you get
ONE FREE SMALL PIZZA
22441 Dewdney Trunk Rd. MAPLE RIDGE
www.BCBOTTLEDEPOT.com 9am to 6pm
604-465-8900
#15 - 20475 Lougheed Hwy.
7 days a week
MAPLE RIDGE BOTTLE DEPOT Troy Landreville/TIMES
Musician Boris Sichon played a variety of unique musical instruments from around the world during a one-man concert at Pitt Meadows’ Highland Park Elementary on Thursday afternoon, Jan. 29.
Music education
Global sounds explored in Pitt
Elementary school students in Pitt Meadows tried out musical instruments from around the globe this past Thursday. by Troy Landreville tlandreville@mrtimes.com
A man dubbed a “worldmusic dynamo” gave Highland Park Elementary students a sampling of sounds from around the globe this past Thursday, Jan. 29. Boris Sichon introduced students and staff to musical instruments that are foreign to many, culminating with an afternoon concert in front of an assembly of students and staff in the Pitt Meadows school’s gymnasium. The Instruments of the World interactive workshops and concert were made possible through a grant from the Hamber Foundation to the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Arts Council, which enabled the group to develop the project with Sichon for Canada Culture Day in September, and an Arts ProD Day that had to be cancelled. In the morning, Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Arts Council technical director Alex House led students through an interactive class in which they chose a photo of an instrument
Troy Landreville/TIMES
Boris Sichon and students from Highland Park Elementary opened a concert in the school’s gymnasium with high energy drumming. Meanwhile, Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows Arts Council technical director Alex House (inset) stood next to a corkboard displaying just some of the global instruments in Boris Sichon’s collection. off a corkboard, and then had to guess where it originated from, by pressing a letter on a keyboard and watching the instrument appear on screen. “All these instruments are owned by Boris, he’s collected them over the years from all sorts of countries,” House said. “We were really looking for a way to easily explore the kids’… finding out where they are from, and that music is more than
just their neighbourhood.” Sichon, who lives in Mission, owns a unique collection of ethnic musical instruments that he has compiled from years of travelling around the world. His collection now comprises of more than 250 rare and unique musical instruments. Just a few of the instruments he brought with him to Highland Park were a xylophone from Eastern Europe, a didger-
idoo (wind instrument) from Australia, a First Nations flute and drum. Sichon enjoys conducting his workshops and concerts at schools such as Highland Park Elementary. “I’ve been doing this for the last 10 years in different areas of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario,” Sichon said, as he organized his instruments prior to playing a one-man concert in front of the assembly of students. “There’s incredible energy.” Born and raised in the Ukraine, Sichon left his hometown for St. Petersburg to continue his musical education in the Academy of Music. During his studies, he started working in the St. Petersburg Symphony Orchestra, where he worked with well known Russian conductors such as Yevgeny Mravinsky, Shostakovich, Badchan, Karapetian, and many others. When he came to Canada in 2004, Sichon began performing right away, leading workshops and participating in festivals such as the Vancouver Folk Fest, Comox Music Fest, Vancouver Island Folk Fest, and Edmonton Folk Fest. As well, he has played solos with the likes of Yungchen Lhamo, Jerry Douglas, Pavlo, Uzume Taiko, and others, and wrote music for theatre (he was nominated by The JESSIES for Outstanding Sound Design/Original Composition in small Theatre Category with Helen’s Necklace, Pi Theatre).
DONATE YOUR RECYCLABLES!
GUARANTEED 100% OF DONATED RECYCLABLES REFUND WILL BE DONATED TO THE CANADIAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION
FULL DEPOSIT REFUND
ON ALL BEVERAGE CONTAINERS INCLUDING BEER,WINE & SPIRITS,AND SOFT DRINKS Drop off free of charge all your electronics.
10¢
ea. & N BEER CA S BOTTLES
GREAT ENTERTAINMENT
MEAT DRAWS EVERY TUES., THURS., FRI., SAT., SUN. FULL DINING DAILY EXCEPT MONDAYS KARAOKE WITH PHIL EVERY THURSDAY FEBRUARY 6-7 ............................... RECKLESS FEBRUARY 8 ............................. SWEETWATER FEBRUARY 13-14 .................... WHISKEY RIVER FEBRUARY 15............ MIDNIGHT EAGLES JAM FEBRUARY 20-21 .........................BRIAN ZALO FEBRUARY 22 .......................... BOB MARLOW FEBRUARY 27-28................................ BULLET MARCH 1 ................... KARAOKE WITH PHIL MARCH 6-7 ............................ STILLWATER
Music by Whiskey River beginning at 7:30 p.m
Bring your sweetheart and dance the evening away!
Door Prizes & Spot Dances
MEMBERS & GUESTS WELCOME. ASK ABOUT OUR FUNDRAISERS.
12101-224th St. Maple Ridge
604.463.5101 (Office & Lounge)
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Transit referendum
Luncheon lays out ‘yes’ vote The chamber members believe that voting yes on a 0.5 per cent bump to the PST is the most logical play.
includes two guest speakers: John Winter, the president, CEO, and director of the BC Chamber of Commerce, as well as Port Coquitlam Mayor Greg Moore – who is the Metro Vancouver board chair. The referendum will be conducted by a mail-in-ballot asking voters to by Troy Landreville either say “yes” or “no” to a 0.5tlandreville@mrtimes.com per-cent Metro Vancouver conWith the transit tax refergestion improvement tax. This endum fast approaching, the tax would apply to the majority Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows of goods and services subject to Chamber of Commerce is backthe PST, that are sold or deliving the “yes” side. ered within the region. A provincial sales tax hike in Andrea Madden, the local Metro Vancouver, imposed by chamber’s executive direcTransLink to pay for transportator, said the chamber was tion improvements, would raise approached to join the Better Andrea Madden the PST from seven per cent to Transit and Transportation Chamber executive director 7.5 per cent within the region. Coalition late last year. Metro Vancouver residents The chamber’s main concern will decide if the tax hike is a go when was the implications of a 0.05-per-cent tax they vote through a mail-in referendum increase on local businesses, she said. next month. “However, with careful deliberation, the The tax increase would go towards part chamber board of directors recognized of the $8-billion pricetag attached to a 10that of all of the options considered by the year transit plan. Among improvements Mayors’ council, this was the fairest and outlined in the plan, Maple Ridge would would have the least economic impact on get a B-Line bus to connect the City to the businesses and families,” Madden said. Evergreen SkyTrain line in Coquitlam. She added that the chamber also recogIf passed, an expected $250 million a nized the importance of a forward-thinkyear will be raised to fund a $7.5-billion ing mindset, and that this issue “has expansion of the region’s transportation greater implications to the way we do infrastructure, which would also include business in the Lower Mainland.” a new Pattullo Bridge, light rail in Surrey, “Simply put, congestion costs businesses and a subway in Vancouver. money and negatively effects the local and To explain their choice to support the regional economy,” she said. Better Transit Transportation Coalition Tickets to the luncheon can be booked (BTTC) for the referendum, the chamber online through the chamber’s web page is hosting a luncheon this Thursday, Feb. (ridgemeadowschamber.com) and click5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m at the Pitt ing on the “Events” tab or by calling the Meadows Golf Club, 13615 Harris Road. chamber at 604-457-4599 between 9 a.m, The luncheon – Congestion Costs and 5 p.m. • More at www.mrtimes.com, search “chamber” Business, Why a Yes Vote Makes Sense –
INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE ON THE CITIZEN’S COMMITTEE ON OPEN GOVERNMENT
Citizens’ Committee on Open Government Are you interested in exploring ways Council and City Hall can be more responsive and transparent to the residents of Pitt Meadows? A select committee has been approved to make recommendations to Council on possible ways to improve citizen interactions with City Departments and Council.The process may include a review of applicable laws and policies and examples from other jurisdictions, but any and all ideas from our citizens are invited. The Committee will be led by a facilitator and meetings will begin in February and be held on two Thursdays each month for three months from 7pm to 9pm.The resulting recommendations from the Committee will be included in an independent report prepared by the facilitator for Council’s consideration in May 2015. The size of the Committee is unlimited, and participation is open to all residents, business owners, stakeholders or volunteers in Pitt Meadows. Please email pmopengov@pittmeadows.bc.ca or call 604-465-5454 with your name, contact information, and a brief statement explaining why you are interested in joining the Committee. Mayor John Becker on behalf of Council
12007 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows • 604.465.5454 • pittmeadows.bc.ca
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
A11
We represent accident victims in BC & Alberta, NOT Insurance Companies - FREE initial consultation
LAWYERS
Over
48 50 years years combined experience combined experience
All personal injuries... however caused
Our family will give you specialized attention.
FOWLE
Suffer a personal injury while visiting Alberta: We also handle Alberta claims!
PRIMARY PRACTICE: • MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS • PERSONAL INJURY • WILLS & ESTATES
604•476•2130
Toll Free: 1•800•663•8996 Fax: 604•476•2135
#650, 22470 Dewdney Trunk Road Maple Ridge, B.C. V2X 5Z6
A12
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
The ACT
Poets and artists coupled for show by Cole Wagner
WELCOME LEN to Willowbrook Chrysler
editorial@mrtimes.com
Helene Lavasseur (left), founder of Holy Wow poets and the Poetry and Artists Extravaganza, and artist Valerie Baron McRae posed with one of McRae’s works. Both women have one of their creations in Tuesday’s show. child of Lavasseur, who started Holy Wow Poets four years ago. She approached the Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows Arts Council with this idea last November. “I drew inspiration from work that was being done in New Westminister,” she said. “The concept is called visual verse.” For Dudley Christian, formerly the host of a television program Pause for Poetry, the event is “quite a remarkable feat.” “I know in my mind exactly what image I would associate with the poem I submitted,” Christian said. “But I don’t know anything about the artist.” While the Maple Ridge poetry scene is still developing according
to Christian, events like the Poets’ and Artists’ Extravaganza could help to boost the profile of local poets and artists alike. After a live reading of each poem, the artwork will be displayed for the evening and available for purchase from The ACT, or from the artists themselves. If the event is successful, Lavasseur wants it to become an annual event. Christian, on the other hand, is simply grateful for a place to exhibit his work. “We poets, we can’t not write – that would be like saying ‘Don’t breathe,’” he said. For more information about the Poets’ and Artists’ Extravaganza, visit www.theactmapleridge. org.
DON’T LET YOUR DEBT EAT YOU ALIVE!
Turn the tide with a Consumer Proposal. We can cut your debt by up to 80%.
BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION MAPLE RIDGE Suite 200 - 11830 223rd Street Maple Ridge, BC V2X 5Y1
www.sands-trustee.com
| 604-463-9599
Steve Phillips General Sales Manager
Len Haughian Sales Manager
Steve & Len back together again to find you THE winning deal!
Willowbrook Chrysler, Canada’s fastest growing Chrysler dealer is pleased to announce the addition of Sales Manager Len Haughian to their winning sales team. Len has been in the auto business for over 30 years, a large part of it selling the Chrysler brand. He has worked closely with Steve for half of that time and is looking forward to the new opportunities at Willowbrook Chrysler’s Langley Bypass dealership. Steve said “It’s great to have Len here to help us provide the level of customer service that continues to attract more and more car buyers and make us Canada’s fastest growing Chrysler dealer! If you haven’t come to see us yet drop by our newly renovated Langley Bypass showroom and see how well we take care of you!
WILLOWBROOK CHRYSLER
19611 Langley Bypass, Langley 604 530 7361 • willowbrookchrysler.ca
Steve’s Cell Phone: 778-242-6679
New e g Brid
McDonalds LAN
GLE
YB
S AS YP
ok bro low er WilChrysl 60TH AV
E
TO
#1
EET STR 196
February has hit, and Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Love fills the air and couples seem to appear out of thin air – as if arranged by some higher power. Coupling for love works in mysterious ways. But coupling of artists and poets? Well, that’s the work of Helene Lavasseur, founder of Holy Wow Poets and creator of the Poets’ and Artists’ Extravaganza night at The ACT in Maple Ridge. Tonight (Feb. 3) from 7 to 9 p.m., more than 20 artists will fill the lobby in The ACT with their original works – each inspired by a different poem that was supplied by Lavasseur. Word went out to local artists in December, and they had two months to work with an assigned poem. “If an artist called me and wanted to get involved, I would pull a poem from a hat, with my eyes closed, and email it to them,” explained Lavasseur. Consequently, before tonight’s event, none of the paired-up artists and poets have ever met face-to-face. This event is the brain-
0
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Sports
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Recreation
A13
Did you know?
There is no referral necessary. Just come in and ask to see a counsellor.
604.467.5179 • www.alouetteaddictions.org
On Deck
Girls take top The Maple Ridge Secondary Ramblers senior girls basketball team extended their winning streak to 11 games, and took top spot when they won the Southridge tournament this past weekend. The team beat Little Flower Academy, and then defeated Rick Hansen Secondary in the semifinal After a slow start in the final game, the team rallied to come back with a 55-35 win over last year’s provincial champs, Windsor of North Vancouver. Jane Grisley was selected as the tournament MVP and Kate Head was a first team all-star. • More online: www.mrtimes.com, click on “Sports”
with
Layar or
www.mrtimes.com
View
Photos
online
Tourney at Pitt The Grade 8 Pitt Meadows Marauders host a tournament at Pitt Meadows Secondary this weekend. The two-day tournament runs Feb. 6 and 7. • More online: www.mrtimes.com, click on “Sports”
Player chosen Maple Ridge softball player Larissa Franklin was chosen to be part of the Pan Am Games team, as well as being tapped once again to play for Team Canada’s senior softball team later this summer. • More online: www.mrtimes.com, click on “Sports”
The Ridge Meadows Flames duked it out against the Grandview Steelers on Friday night at Planet Ice. The Flames took the game by a score of 3-2. Just three games remain in the Flames’ season, and the next match-up takes place this Friday in Abbotsford.
A3 takes banner Ridge Meadows Minor Hockey A3 bantam team won the league banner for Flight 6 this past weekend. • More online: www.mrtimes.com, click on “Sports”
Rick Moyer/TIMES
Junior B hockey
One loss, one win for Flames
TIMES files
After a loss on the weekend, the Moose are in action this Saturday.
Moose lose
The Meadow Ridge Moose female hockey team suffered a loss at home on Saturday night, when they fell by a score of 4-1 against South Fraser TNT. The team’s next game takes place this Saturday at the Pitt Meadows Arena. The puck drops at 8:30 p.m. • More online: www.mrtimes.com, click on “Sports”
Send your scores and game reports to sports@mrtimes.com
The local Junior B hockey squad rallied at home on Friday night. d
by Eric Zimmer ezimmer@mrtimes.com
This past weekend brought a mixed bag of results for the Ridge Meadows Flames. On Thursday evening, the Flames travelled to Richmond to face off against the Sockeyes. The game looked to be in the Flames’ favour as the team pulled ahead with a 3-1 lead. Goals from Jordan Rendle, Halen Cordoni, and Dale Howell put the Flames out in front, but a win was not to be. In the final 20 minutes of the
game, the Sockeyes led the charge and ultimately bounced back to win the game 5-3. “We’ve played Richmond really well all year,” said Flames head coach Jaime Fiset. “We got off to the start we were hoping for, but we got into a little bit of penalty trouble, and we were playing without some pretty key players that night,” he added. On Friday, looking to make up for the loss, the Flames returned home to Planet Ice, where they blazed to victory over the Grandview Steelers. Flames goalie Kurt Klimek made 39 saves to help lead his team to a 3-2 win over the visiting Steelers. A pair of goals from Dale Howell, and a single from Halen Cordoni put the game away. “The Steelers are one of the
hottest teams in the league right now,” Fiset commented. “They came off a loss against Aldergrove on Wednesday, so we knew they’d be tough opponents.” It was a good back-and-forthgame, the coach said. “Our goalie played really well, and we got some timely goals from some key players as well.” The win is encouraging, and though three games still remain in the regular season, the Flames have been eliminated from a playoff spot for this year. “We got that win in Port Moody last week, but then Mission also won, so we’re officially out,” Fiset explained. “It’s a season that started off with a lot of promise, but we battled with consistency throughout the year and that was really the
one thing we never got a handle on,” said Fiset. “We’d get a big win one night, then lose the next couple; we just never really got into that rhythm.” The team’s defence is playing well right now, however, “and that helps when you’ve got that stability on the back end.” The team is by no means throwing in the towel on the season yet though. “We’ve picked up points in five our last six games, and that shows that our guys still care,” Fiset remarked. Despite the less than stellar season, Fiset noted he’s been happy with the attendance numbers at the team’s home games. “We’ve had really good crowds and it’s nice to get that fan support,” he said.
A16
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Serving our Communities since 1924.... 1499
$
22.1 cu.ft. French Door Refrigerator
SAVE $600
• Energy Star Bottom-Mount • Internal Water Dispenser • Frost Guard Technology
1599
$
SAVE $600
22.1 cu.ft. French Door Refrigerator
19.5 cu.ft. French Door Refrigerator
• Energy Star Bottom-Mount • External Water Dispenser • Frost Guard Technology
• Energy Star Bottom-Mount • GE GED Lighting • Never Clean Condenser PNR20KSEFES
PNR22MSEFES
PNR22LSEFES
SAVE $150
749
$
1599
899
$
SAVE $300
$
SAVE $400
SAVE $100
1549
$
30” Free Standing Electric Self Cleaning Range
30” Free Standing Electric Self Cleaning Convection Range
30” Free Standing Electric Double Oven Self Clean Range
• Hot Surface Indicator Lights • Big Clear View Window
• Warming Drawer
• Dual Element Bake
• Hidden Bake Element
• True Temp System
• Steam Clean
• Automatic Self Clean Oven Door Lock
LIMITED QUANTITY
JCB630SFSS
JCBP810STSS
948 PAIR
$
4.5 cu.ft. Washer & 7.0 cu.ft. Dryer WASHER
• Three Wash/Rinse Temperature • Stainless Steel Wash Basket • Bleach, Fabric Softener Dispenser
DRYER
• 4-Heat Selections • De-Wrinkle & Quick
SAVE $250
1398 PAIR
$
4.2 cu.ft. Washer & 7.0 cu.ft. Dryer WASHER
• Stainless Steel Wash Drum • Speedwash Cycle
DRYER
JCB850SFSS
SAVE $200
1549
$
Spacemaker 3.7 cu.ft. Washer & 5.9 cu.ft. Dryer
SAVE $100
• 4-Heat Selections • 3 Wash Spin Speed Combinations • 9 Wash Cycles
• Sensor Dry • Speed Dry • End of Cycle Signal
®
FURNITURE INDUSTRIES INC.
604.463.4168
22390 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge www.fullerwatsonbrandsource.ca
Like us on
Monday to Thursday 9am - 5:30pm, Friday 9am - 9pm, Saturday 9am - 5:30pm, Sunday 12 - 5pm
*Images may not be exactly as shown