Tuesday, February 17, 2015 A fundraiser for the family of a Maple Ridge tot with a degenerative disease truly sparkled.
Page A14 • LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT • mrtimes.com • 604-463-2281 • 22 PAGES
at our
times square MAPLE RIDGE & PITT MEADOWS
PITT MEADOWS COLD BEER & WINE STORE
ER TRAILHES HITC
$
219
Installed!
May not be exactly as shown. Expires Mar 31, 2015. Not Valid with any other
WEST COAST DETAIL ACCESSORY CENTRE 19120 Lougheed Hwy., Pitt Meadows
604-465-6530
BACARDI OAKHEART 750ML
$
Bakflip G2
879
Starting at
$
Starting at
25.49
+ deposit $3 below government
19120 Lougheed Hwy., Pitt Meadows
604-465-6530
$5 OFF* YOUR CARTRIDGE
ONLINE SHOPPING Now Available
Limited Time Only Onl
Welding Supplies in Maple Ridge
NOW OPEN! Valid Only at:
22838 Lougheed Hwy Hwy. Maple Ridge (next to Vancity)
AUTO-DARKENING WELDING HELMET
12999
$
WHILE SUPPLIES LAST
refill of $10 or more
*with this coupon. Cannot be combined with any other offer. 1 coupon per visit.
Keep up to Date on our
Mon-Fri 8:00AM - 5:00PM SAT 10:00 - 1:00PM
Metaltropolis Supplies 22838 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge (next to Vancity)
Maria’s Vapor Emporium Electronic Cigarettes & Supplies
22465 North Ave., Maple Ridge 604-467-6513 Special Deals, Products & more facebook.com/stickyscandymapleridge
11am - 7pm • Sun: 12pm - 6pm
7999
$
WHILE SUPPLIES LAST
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
*Expires June 15, 2014 *Expires June 2014 *Expires March15, 31, 2015
22776 Lougheed Hwy, Maple Ridge 604.467.0870 www.mainlandcartridge.com
WEST COAST AUTO GROUP
www.westcoastautogroup.com
ARE DONE! RENOVATIONS
March 14th 2015, From 12pm to 5pm
Ask us how you can earn $47.95 back!
WEST COAST DETAIL ACCESSORY CENTRE
We Deliver 604.460.1607 Delivery Charges will apply ALL SALES WHILE SUPPLIES LAST 19267 Lougheed Hwy Pitt Meadows
BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE!
TK
One coupon per customer. Expires March 31, 2015. Not valid with any other offers.
(next to the Ramada Inn) OPEN 9am - 11pm - 7 DAYS A WEEK
www.westcoastautogroup.com
*
*Plus install and tax
price!
WEST COAST AUTO GROUP
cut it out or see more at mrtimes.com
Buy any Starter Kit and receive Three 10ml bottles of E-Juice for
FREE
- Value $27.00 exp. 14 March 2015
Join our growing network! facebook.com/MapleRidgePittMeadowsTimes
508-20170 Stewart Cres. Maple Ridge
604-460-0602 • www.weldbc.com
PITT MEADOWS COLD BEER & WINE STORE CARIBOO BLONDE 6 CANS
$
6.99
+ deposit below government price
BUD 740ML CAN
$
2.99
+ deposit
Best value Bud!
19267 Lougheed Hwy ALL SALES WHILE SUPPLIES LAST Pitt Meadows (next to the Ramada Inn) OPEN 9am - 11pm - 7 DAYS A WEEK
online @mrtimes.com
PITT MEADOWS COLD BEER & WINE STORE
$
219
Installed!
May not be exactly as shown. Expires Mar 31, 2015. Not Valid with any other
WEST COAST AUTO GROUP
604-465-6530
www.westcoastautogroup.com
Welding Supplies in Maple Ridge
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Mon-Fri 8:00AM - 5:00PM SAT 10:00 - 1:00PM
Metaltropolis Supplies
508-20170 Stewart Cres. Maple Ridge.
604-460-0602 • www.weldbc.com
PITT MEADOWS COLD BEER & WINE STORE BACARDI OAKHEART 750ML
25.49
+ deposit $3 below government price!
We Deliver 604.460.1607 Delivery Charges will apply ALL SALES WHILE SUPPLIES LAST 19267 Lougheed Hwy Pitt Meadows
(next to the Ramada Inn) OPEN 9am - 11pm - 7 DAYS A WEEK
$
2.99
+ deposit
19267 Lougheed Hwy ALL SALES WHILE SUPPLIES LAST Pitt Meadows (next to the Ramada Inn) OPEN 9am - 11pm - 7 DAYS A WEEK
879
* Ask us how you can earn $47.95 back!
*Plus install and tax
One coupon per customer. Expires March 31, 2015. Not valid with any other offers.
WEST COAST DETAIL ACCESSORY CENTRE 19120 Lougheed Hwy., Pitt Meadows
WEST COAST AUTO GROUP
604-465-6530
www.westcoastautogroup.com
WE CATER
604.465.2828 www.yummysubs.com
VALID ONLY AT:
IN MAPLE RIDGE: 22838 Lougheed Highway • 20522 Lougheed Highway • 23981 Dewdney Trunk Road IN PITT MEADOWS: 12473 Harris Road
Loughee d Hwy .
IN PORT COQUITLAM: 1475 Prairie Avenue • 1069 Nicola Avenue (inside Home Depot) •
2160 Hawkins St. (NEXT TO WALMART) Limit one per customer per visit, excludes extras and double meat.
Buy one 30ml bottle of E-Juice at regular price receive one 10ml bottle
FREE -
Value $8.95 exp. 14 March 2015
Maria’s Vapor Emporium Electronic Cigarettes & Supplies
22465 North Ave., Maple Ridge 604-467-6513
Join our growing network! facebook.com/MapleRidgePittMeadowsTimes
119 Ave.
228 St.
• Electrode • Welding Supplies • Grinding Discs
DELIVERY AVAILABLE
$
BUD 740ML CAN
227 St.
• Cylinder Refills While You Wait • Cut To Size Metal
6.99
+ deposit below government price
Best value Bud!
WEST COAST DETAIL ACCESSORY CENTRE 19120 Lougheed Hwy., Pitt Meadows
CARIBOO BLONDE 6 CANS
$
Starting at
$
Starting at
ER TRAILHES HITC
Bakflip G2
Monday to Thursday 8:30am - 5pm Friday 8:30am - 6pm Saturday & Sunday Closed
22776 Lougheed Hwy, Maple Ridge 604.467.0870 www.mainlandcartridge.com Need Some...
15% OFF
Your Purchase With this ad. Expires March 30, 2015
A treat for Every Occasion 11am - 7pm
Tuesday, February 17, 2015 A Maple Ridge father fears for biker safety after discovering booby traps on a cycling trail in Thornhill.
Page A4 • LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT • mrtimes.com • 604-463-2281 • 22 PAGES Politics
A local MLA takes a run at federal politics, but failing that he’ll return to caucus.
View
More Photos with
www.mrtimes.com
Dalton vying to be new MP
Layar or online
by Cole Wagner editorial@mrtimes.com
Even though the federal election is still eight months off, the race for the local MP’s seat is heating up. As of last week, there is another familiar face in contention for the position of Member of Parliament for the Pitt Meadows-Maple RidgeMission riding. Marc Dalton, the current MLA for Maple Ridge and Mission, announced Thursday he will resign from the provincial Liberal party and pursue a soon-to-be-vacant spot with the federal Conservative party. The announcement comes on the heels of news that long-serving local Conservative MP Randy Kamp had decided not to seek re-election this fall, saying he’s retiring and citing health concerns as part of the reason. Dalton joins the race for the Conservative nod against Mike Murray, Kamp’s executive assistant. Marc Dalton Meanwhile, only one candidate MLA from the NDP has announced his intention to seek that party’s nomination: Jack Emberly, a local author and environmentalist. As of press time, calls to the local riding association of the Liberal Party were not returned. The nomination process for all three major parties will continue to be open for the next few months, ahead of the federal election planned for October. In the meantime, Dalton said he will retain his seat in the B.C. Legislature until further notice, but will do so as an independent rather than a member of the Liberal party. “There will be those who may try and suggest I’m running away from the BC Liberals. Nothing could be further from the truth,” Dalton said. His decision to sit as an independent during the nomination process, he said, was “because of the respect I have for the premier and my colleagues.” Should he fail to secure the Conservative nomination, Dalton said he will return to the caucus. According to figures from Elections B.C., three by-elections conducted during the last three years cost taxpayers $482,000, $502,000, and $467,000 respectively.
Marching in memory
Many people take for granted the loved ones who they have around them. But a group of about 60 women and men – including a few children – came together at Memorial Peace Park on Valentine’s Day afternoon to take part in a march through the streets of Haney. It was a chance to publicly remember the loved ones they have lost. It was part of the annual Memorial March for Missing and Murdered Women, but the first of its kind in Maple Ridge. Among the participants was four-year-old William Read, (above) who attended with his mother, Maple Ridge Mayor Nicole Read. They were there to remember Nicole’s aunt, Constance Graham, who was murdered 10 years ago. Graham was killed by her son, (Read’s cousin), who Read describes as addicted and suspected of seeking money for drugs. Read would like to see the local walk continued and expanded next year, and vowed her support.
• More at www.mrtimes.com, search “Dalton”
Ask us how to get 10,000 , CASH OAC with your next PAY-OFF HIGH IT INTEREST CRED ! BT DE RD New or Used Car CA $
CALL 604.465.8931
CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE
Rick Moyer/TIMES
Online, all the time...
$12
CLASSIC DEAL
th 6” Sandwich $4 224 & Haney Place Mall (Food Court)
www.mrtimes.com
12” Sandwich $6 Classic Sandwiches Only • Expires March 31, 2015
604-380-1890 • 11900 Lougheed Hwy
Connect With Your City
•
604-463-3663 • 11969 - 224th St. pittmeadows.bc.ca facebook.com/pittmeadows @citypittmeadows
A2
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
UpFront Lougheed
Crash prompts highway online petition A driver is grateful to be alive after an accident Friday.
mrtimes.com
Special meeting called Maple Ridge council will host a public meeting today, Feb. 17, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., to start discussing its broad goals for the remainder of its fouryear term. Tyler Shymkiw Strategic planning councillor is a process that will continue well into March and April, explained Councillor Tyler Shymkiw. But, council wanted to get started on discussions as early as possible. • More at www.mrtimes.com
Registrations down On Feb. 21, Maple Ridge residents will take the adage to heart as they take part in “The Coldest Night of the Year,” an annual five or 10 km walk to benefit the homeless, and the hungry. But thus far, the numbers of registrations for the annual walk are way down. The walk is set to take place Feb. 21 at 4 p.m., starting from the Caring Place. For more information or to register, people can call 604-463-8296. • More at www.mrtimes.com
Chamber gala sells out What better way to wrap up chamber week than to hold a sold-out business excellence awards night? At least that was the thinking of Andrea Madden, executive director for the Chamber of Commerce Serving Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, when she moved the date of the chamber’s premiere event to coincide with the nationally Andrea Madden proclaimed chamber executive director week. “I thought, ‘what better way is there to end the week than with a bang,” Madden said, noting 195 people are expected at Saturday night’s gala to honour excellence in local business at Meadow Gardens Golf Club. • More at www.mrtimes.com Chef Dez is a food columnist and culinary instructor in the Fraser Valley. Visit him at www. chefdez.com. Send questions to dez@chefdez. com
On Cooking by Chef Dez
Parsley pesto a fave Instead of passing by it in the produce store, or writing it off as simple garnish, TIMES columnist Chef Dez is asking you to give parsley a second look. In his column today, offers some great ideas, including pesto. • More at www.mrtimes.com
More Photos Online
by Roxanne Hooper rhooper@mrtimes.com
Another potentially tragic crash along the Lougheed Highway in east Maple Ridge this weekend spawned a petition to have concrete barricade installed. During the past month, there have been some fatal and nearfatal crashes along the Lougheed Highway east of town. And following on the heels of Mayor Nicole Read’s comments that she wants the province to look into upgrades for the sake of safety, another – more grassroots – effort has emerged. Following a crash in the 26500 block of Lougheed Highway Friday evening, a TIMES facebook follower has launched an online petition that as of Monday afternoon had 81 supporters. “Lives are being tragically lost…” said Dawn Canavan of Maple Ridge, “…due to the traffic heading in both directions without barriers. Contributing factors include poor lighting, speed of traffic, weather conditions, and [the] slope of pavement along this highway.” She said the curves and reduced visibility on this section of four-lane highway add to the danger, comparing it to what she called “death mile” along a section of the Lougheed in Pitt Meaodws before barriers were installed there years ago.
www.mrtimes.com
Click
for community
A3
A Mission man and his car went down a 20-foot embankment off the Lougheed Highway in Whonnock Friday night, but he was not seriously injured. Rick Moyer/TIMES
“The barrier needs to go in immediately; this loss of life is insane,” Canavan said. “Let cement barriers save our citizens, please share, as your kindness counts.” Given the recent history of tragic crashes along the Lougheed Highway in east Maple Ridge, Darnell Bramley is classifying himself as extremely fortunate. He told The TIMES that he was eastbound towards Mission on Friday, when he hit a puddle in the 26500 block of Lougheed Highway. It caused him to slide off the south side of the road and careen down a 20-foot muddy embank-
ment, he told TIMES photographer Rick Moyer on scene. The 47-year-old Mission man knew he’d landed near the train tracks, and said he quickly scrambled out the passenger’s side of the car – which had come to rest on its side at the base of the hill. It turns out the vehicle came to rest at least 50 feet away from the tracks, so CP Rail was able to maintain train traffic through the area as police, firefighters, and paramedics worked. Bramley was driving a 2012 Infiniti all-wheel drive when the crash occurred just before 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13.
While police are still investigating the cause of the crash, Ridge Meadows RCMP Staff Sgt. Dean Scott said “weather and speed are probably factors.” Bramley, who said he’s driven that strip of highway hundreds of times through the years, expressed gratitude to the first responders on the scene for all their help. He was checked out on scene by paramedics, and given the all-clear.
• The petition is online at https://www. change.org/p/maple-ridge-city-councilinstall-cement-barriers-along-lougheedhighway-from-240th-eastwards-to-safezone
Schools
Retired super ranked second highest paid In part because she retired as the boss of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows school district, Jan Unwin received one of the highest wages of all school administrators in the region. by Roxanne Hooper rhooper@mrtimes.com
In a report released last week, the former superintendent of schools for Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows has been ranked among the highest paid school officials in the Lower Mainland. For the seventh year in a row, the Vancouver Sun is looking into annual salaries of the highest-paid employees at B.C.’s universities and colleges, and in doing so found four of the top five work at the University of B.C. In the top five, annual salaries for the 2013-14 fiscal year ranged from $448,346 to $536,196, according to the newspaper’s exclusive and searchable database of salaries that compiles information for 25 universities and colleges across B.C. and a pool of 13,226 post-secondary employees.
The same report also delved into top salar- to almost $100,000 more than the next highies in the public domain of education, exam- est-paid administrator in the local school district. ining compensation within 14 districts and But it was learned last week that it also for more than 8,000 employees in the Lower vaulted Unwin near the top of the pay Mainland. grade, when compared to all the other While the former Richmond school disschool districts in the Lower Mainland. trict’s departing head of instruction, Kathy Local school district spokesperson Irena Champion, led the pack on the public-secPochop said her district no longer tor school salary front (earning offers retirement allowances to $359,237 during the last fiscal senior staff, but Unwin’s allowyear), Jan Unwin took second ance was grandfathered in. place. Unwin was at the helm of the The now retired Maple Ridge Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows school and Pitt Meadows school superdistrict for five years. She originintendent earned $257,123 last ally started as a teacher, counselyear – significantly more than the lor, and helping teacher in the previous year that saw her earn Mission school district. $173,404, according to this Sun She was then appointed princireport. pal of Maple Ridge Elementary, Her earnings were first reported Jan Unwin followed by principal duties at by The TIMES last October, when Former superintendent the local school district released its Thomas Haney Secondary, before financial report. moving up the ranks locally to As indicated at that time, the first assistant superintendent, then jump in financial compensation came as a deputy superintendent, and finally boss. result of a clause in Unwin’s contract where She moved on about a year ago, when she she was entitled to a one-time $78,000 was offered the posting as superintendent of retirement allowance, plus another $5,000 graduation and student transitions with the for unused vacation time. province. - with files from Chad Skelton, Vancouver Sun This brought Unwin’s earnings for 2013-14
A4
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
Citizen of the Year 2015 Event - April , Deadline for Nominations - March ,
Maple Ridge
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
Maple Ridge
Cole Wagner/TIMES
Dean Wilkes, here beside daughters Norah, 10, and Danika, 8, discovered traps and obstacles along a beginner mountain biking trail in Thornhill late last month.
Trails
Bikers bewildered by traps There are no details as to who set up hazards in vulnerable spots along a Thornhill path earlier this month.
But while the placement of the logs was suspicious enough for local police to open a file, several details about the traps remains muddy. Most pressing, who would have done this, and why? “To me, I’m thinking whoever did by Cole Wagner this, they’re a little off their rocker,” said ediorial@mrtimes.com Wilkes, who added that the trail itself was When the weather clears for a few days beginner level; somewhere young teens or in winter and the sun peaks out from children might learn to ride. behind the cloud cover for a couple fleetWilkes’ discovery of the booby-trapped ing hours, Dean Wilkes wastes no time. trail comes on the heels of the fallout He packs up his bike (and sometimes from another booby-trapping incident on a two more for his daughters, Norah and mountain bike trail in North Vancouver. Danika) and hits the nature trails around In that case, a 64-year-old woman was the Thornhill area of Maple charged after setting a Ridge. number of traps on trails Wilkes is at home along at Mount Fromme. The “The placing of these the Bear Ridge trail – he woman’s husband later logs was extremely knows the bends, where to told reporters that she was deliberate.” avoid the outcropping of simply trying to find a rocks or trees, and where way to force riders to slow Dean Wilkes to slow down to share the down along the path. trail with those who have But Wilkes says he has more pedestrian inclinations. never seen a confrontation along the trails On Jan. 25, when the sun came out, between bikers and pedestrians. Wilkes returned to his familiar route. Parks and Leisure staff formally inspects But when he got to Bear Ridge, what he all of the Maple Ridge trails twice per saw wasn’t familiar in the least. year, said Geoff Mallory, manager of parks Somehow, a number of large logs had and open spaces with the City of Maple been dragged across the trails. Ridge. Sticks and other debris had been scatThey haven’t ever seen bicycle boobytered on blind corners along the trail in at traps along more than 200 km worth of least four other spots. trails in the City, said Mallory. The trails, according to Wilkes, had Wilkes plans to stay vigilant after the been booby-trapped. disturbing discovery two weeks ago. “The placing of these logs was extreme“My biggest concern is people’s safety,” ly deliberate,” Wilkes said. “If you came he said. “I’m not out to get someone around a corner quickly and hit one of charged, I just don’t want this to happen these logs, it would be a nasty, nasty fall.” again.” www.sd42.ca
“We ARE Maple Ridge” Do you know someone who has made a difference in the community? If so, please nominate them for
Citizen of the Year
The purpose of this award is to recognize and honour a dedicated individual who has made outstanding volunteer contributions to enhance the quality of life in Maple Ridge or to enhance the image of Maple Ridge in the larger community. Those contributions can be broad based, and may be in the areas of art, culture, athletics, social service or business. Nominators should provide a recent photograph, a supporting biography, resume, curriculum vitae, or reasons why the nominee should be chosen. Other letters of support will be welcome and can be attached to nomination form. Nomination forms available on our website: www.mrcf.ca Applications can be emailed to: execassist@mrcf.ca or Mailed to: PO Box , Maple Ridge, BC VX K or For information to nominate or get tickets contact Jacquie Montgomery ..
WELCOME LEN to Willowbrook Chrysler
Steve Phillips General Sales Manager
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.
Registration begins 8 am Monday, February 23, 2015 @ Alouette Elementary 22225 Brown Avenue, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 8N6 Tel. 604.463.4200
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 G LAN
LEY
BY
TO
#1
S
S PA
ok bro low er WilChrysl 60TH AV
E
EET STR 196
Join us for an information meeting on February 18th to learn about this exciting learning option!
Len Haughian
0
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
A5
Variety
Teen defying the odds Although she was told she would never walk, Marie Cusson delights in proving the doctors wrong. by Kevin Griffin Special to the TIMES
If you saw Marie Cusson sitting in a chair, you might wonder why she is always squirming. She keeps moving around because she’s trying to find a position that is free from pain. “I can never sit still because I’m always trying to find a way to get comfy,” the Maple Ridge teen explained. When she stands for too long, she feels it in her back. “Sometimes, if I’m [having] a really bad pain day, I’ll have sharp stabbing pains or it will be a throbbing pain,” Cusson elaborated. The idea anyone, let alone someone who is just 14 years old, has to live with constant pain seems completely unfair. Yet Cusson, with the help of Variety – The Children’s Charity, hasn’t let physical challenges keep her down. Cusson learned how to deal with pain and she’s managed to do it with a chipper, upbeat attitude. As well, she not only sings with a choir, but has learned
mom Melanie. how to adapt contemporary “For me as a single mom, dance steps to suit the way her it’s been a saving grace,” she body moves. said at home in Maple Ridge. Not bad for someone who “If it wasn’t for Variety Club, was never supposed to walk. my daughter wouldn’t be able Cusson’s challenges started to walk and sing and dance shortly after birth. She developed a blood infec- like she’s been able to do. I just wouldn’t be able to afford tion that initially targeted her anything.” right hip and spread to her As well, Variety has covered left. Officially, she had bilatthe cost of speech therapy eral hip dysplasia – her hip for Cusson’s younger brother joints and sockets no longer Thomas, 11. functioned like they were “Just because meant to. you have a disAs well, she “Just because you ability doesn’t developed have a disability mean you have scoliosis – an to be held abnormal curve doesn’t mean you back,” Cusson in her upper have to be held back.” said. spine. Marie Cusson “I’ve seen So far, people judge Cusson has had me from afar. seven surgeries, I’m like: ‘Stare at them back. including a complex one last Show them that you’re proud September, that gave her an all-new titanium ball and sock- of your disability and who you are’.” et on her left leg as well as a The 49th Variety Show of rod halfway into her femur. Hearts Telethon ran for 23 Cusson faces at least one hours on Global BC this past more complex operation. weekend. through the years, Variety It raised almost $5.9 million has paid for back braces, for sick and special needs chilsplints, walking braces, walkdren from throughout B.C. ers, and wheelchairs for Since its inception in Cusson. October 1966, the telethon has Variety has also helped her raised more than $170 million with special orthopedic shoe to provide support for chillifts made from high-density dren in B.C. who have special foam. needs. Last year, the telethon For the Cusson family, the raised $6.7 million. help from Variety has made a – Kevin Griffin is with the Vancouver Sun huge difference, said Cusson’s
Ric Ernst/Vancouver Sun
Marie Cusson has maintained a positive attitude while living with constant pain. Cusson is one of the children who benefitted from the Variety’s Show of Hearts Telethon held this past weekend.
MAPLE RIDGE FESTIVAL OF LIGHT SOCIETY
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
A6
Tuesday, February 17, 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 office is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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. 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.
Our View
Put TransLink in waste bin Regardless of what each side may try to tell you, voting Yes in the upcoming transit referendum won’t instantly fix all of our transportation problems. Meanwhile, the No side is framing the argument to have us believe a Yes vote can’t truly fix transit, because it is actually TransLink that is broken. So Yes may result in a partial and very expensive transit fix without getting to root cause of our problems, while the No vote will only assure our transit problems will continue, without forcing any change to TransLink. And yet both transit and TransLink have to be fixed… or do they? Sometimes, when something is broken badly enough, you should just throw it away. The transit system needs a lot of expensive work done… but TransLink belongs in a dumpster. How did we, as voters, allow our governments to create two-tiered transportation in B.C.? Why is the Lower Mainland a second-class region? For most of B.C.’s existence, transportation has been a provincial responsibility. It worked especially well in the 1950s and 1960s when Premier W.A.C. Bennett and Highways Minister “Flying” Phil Gaglardi built a lasting legacy with then-world-class transportation. Now transportation is a provincewide responsibility outside the Lower Mainland, and we’re on our own. We’re worse than on our own, in fact – we have TransLink, a body created by the provincial government to buffer itself from our transportation problems. TransLink operates like our school boards: the provincial government hamstrings its budget, claims credit when it works, and the rest of the time… well… “It’s not our fault, TransLink did it.” It’s long past time to dissolve TransLink into the B.C. ministry in charge of transportation, with a minister answerable to cabinet instead of to responsibility-deflecting mayors. – B.G.
This Week’s Question The Red Maple Leaf has been Canada’s flag for 50 years… how do you like it? ■ Your View Last week’s question, results… How are you expecting to celebrate Valentine’s Day?
Dinner out.
23 %
Flowers and chocolates.
23 %
None of your business :).
23 %
Alone by choice.
20 %
Missing someone.
11 %
Vote online at: www.mrtimes.com
Opinion
Disagree… but think about it
You’re entitled to your opinThat’s why every religion has ion… but you’re also entitled to eventually broken up into sects keep it to yourself unless you’ve that offer very different views actually thought about it, and it’s starting from a single concept or not just a regurgitation of somethe teachings of one enlightened one else’s ignorant ramblings individual. or, worse still, your gullibility And nearly all adherents, at focused through the lens of a one point or another in their huckster’s scam-artistry. divergence, have been willing to And if you persist in spouting kill each other to promote their your nonsense, it is not incumown “side of the story.” bent upon me or anyone else to Muslims, for instance, come blindly accept your unfounded in various shapes and sizes, by Bob Groeneveld views as a rational alternative to including Sunni, Shia, Sufi, and reality. Ahmadiyya, while Christians, We certainly shouldn’t be forced to eagerly who have been around longer and have had accept risk to ourselves or to our children – or greater opportunity to violently disagree with to our neighbours, or even strangers in far-off each other, present as various Orthodox and lands, for that matter – because you lack the Catholic varieties and a host of Protestant ability to employ rational thought. sects, from Lutheran to Baptist to Calvinist Anti-vaxxers and climate change deniers jump to Presbyterian to Methodist to Anglican to to mind immediately, because their failing grasp Evangelical to… well, you get the idea. on reality has visible and serious consequences The other part of the “two sides to every story” for everyone outside their own sphere of ignormyth is even further off the mark than the limance. itation to just two sides. All sides of the story do But there are others, like the anti-evolution not necessarily carry equal weight, and shouldn’t creationists, for instance, whose chief creation is necessarily be presented as being equal to all a slow but inexorable erosion of science educaother sides. tion principles leading to graduation of more and Take the climate change story, for instance: more ill-informed young people. the deniers’ side is based on misinterpretation of This group’s product is less obviously felt on a data, and on trumped-up charges levelled by a short term than anti-vaxxers’ measles outbreaks handful of “scientists” with dubious credentials and the climate deniers’ storms and species against tens of thousands of bona fide climate destruction. scientists. Ice sheets are melting, spring comes The heart of the problem lies in the mediaearlier, species are disappearing with their niches propagated myth that “there are two sides to in the biosphere, but the deniers fall for faked every story,” coupled with the generally held arguments created out of economic greed. delusion that “both” sides deserve equal opporAnti-vaxxers base their arguments on a delibtunity to be heard. erately concocted study and play on coincidence First, there aren’t two sides to every story. and “gut feelings.” They have convinced even Some stories may have two sides, but most those who disagree with them that they should stories have as many sides as there are people be allowed to opt out of vaccinating innocent telling the story. Everyone’s version will be a children because they are, after all, “entitled to little different. Even people who agree on a basic their opinion.” premise will disagree on details. And that myth can kill people.
Odd Thoughts
editorial@mrtimes.com
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
A7
Federal funding
Dirt bikes beat homeless kids MIKEMURRAY Some people may think the cost of runI just happened to look at the ning only five beds for youths Facebook of Blake Richards, MP at risk is too high. If each young in the ultra-conservative Alberta Letters person only stays for a week, riding of Canmore-Banff-Airdriethat gives over 250 youngsters to Cochrane, where my son and his shelter and may prevent them the family live. from becoming young offenders. He just announced $250,000 A future prison bill would be of federal funding for ATV/dirtastronomically more expensive. bike trails. They also have food banks in Your taxpayer money! Blake Richards’s riding. Randy Kamp, our MP, got nothing to But those are the priorities of the keep the Iron Horse Youth Centre, a shel- Conservative government. Maria Raynolds, Maple Ridge ter for youths at risk, running.
Dear Editor,
Editor
for Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge
I'm Mike Murray, and I want to be your Conservative candidate for Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge
TransLink
Leave bridge-building to province Dear Editor,
One would not expect TransLink to build a bridge connecting New Westminster to Coquitlam via Braid Street (Braid Street Bridge), because that is a “municipal” problem which must be addressed by the municipalities concerned. But we have TransLink
proposing to build a bridge connecting Surrey to New Westminster – because that bridge is necessary for decongesting traffic on a provincial route. Why must the citizens of Metro Vancouver pay for a bridge which is essentially for provincial usage as part of the provincial highway system?
Whonnock
Park revision unnecessary Dear Editor,
Whonnock Lake residents speak loud and clear: do not cut one tree down in the park. The upgrade revision is somewhat of a victory, but really a smokescreen to appease locals. Their plan is still going through at a cost of $1.4 million to unnecessarily rip up the whole park and change it forever. The revision plans are out of an inner city comic strip. In most parks throughout world now, they are encouraging less footprint, and also parking outside the park boundaries, letting people walk in and enjoy the natural settings. Whonnock Lake has huge cedar trees and quiet, shaded areas, and a great little hall that is always booked because of the natural beauty of the place. This is all to be gone with no mention that not one nickel will be spent for local Whonnock school children who visit the park or locals who daily walk through. This upgrade is about filling the pockets of Maple Ridge park and planning employees, and appeasing the city mentality so somebody doesn’t get their high heels wet on their one-time visit to the park. Do we really need another purple Barney playground, and to dig up the whole place and install huge drainage ponds? Can’t people just go to the other many areas that already have plastic play equipment? The upgrade plans are not environmentally friendly enough. This shaded park and its wonderful cedar trees are a natural wonder for all of us. Let’s keep it spectacular. Save Whonnock Lake Park. Mark Renshaw, Maple Ridge
What you’re telling us on Facebook Dalton is leaving the BC Liberals •forMarc a shot at federal politics, and specifically retiring MP Randy Kamp’s seat. A few readers reacted to the story:
“Nobody cares.” “Who cares?”
– Claude Morrissette – Keith Jones
“Double dipping as a pig at the trough.” – Alvin Cohen
Share your views. Like us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/MapleRidgePittMeadowsTimes
TransLink should not be in the bridge-building business, especially where the bridge is a provincial responsibility. It should be removed from TransLink’s wish-list by the Mayors’ Council. I have concerns about the independent auditor and transparency commission. How will these offices be created? Will they be appointed? If so, by whom? Who will be responsible for their contracts and remuneration, etc.? Since payments by TransLink will create a conflict of interest and the Mayors’ Council does not have the resources to meet that kind of obligation, who will do it? What can these offices actually do to correct the inefficiencies and wasteful spending of taxpayers’ money? Of course, they will be able to expose and verify what is already suspected. But that will be after the fact. What can they really do? Is it just another bureaucratic agency to feed off the taxpayer? Of course these concerns will be addressed when the Mayors’ Council succeed in their efforts to secure a yes vote, but by then it would be too late to change what has happened. Again, it will be after the fact.
Edward Lall, Pitt Meadows
Response
Oil products useful Dear Editor,
Dana Lacroix’s point was understood the first time [Demand government corrects past errors, Feb. 5 Letters, TIMES], and is valid. But she does not address the many useful, important, life-saving products made from petroleum used the world over. They cannot be made from solar, wind, or electricity, those power sources can only assist in their construction.
Cherryl Katnich, Maple Ridge
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.
Members of the Conservative Party of Canada are eligible to vote in a nomination meeting. Join up at www.mikemurray.org call me at 604.379.0325 or call my campaign line at 604.617.3114.
www.mikemurray.org HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT PROPERTY TAXES?
Join us at our Pitt Meadows Taxation 101 Workshop The City is offering this workshop to answer questions you may have about your tax bill. How do I decipher my tax notice? How is my tax rate decided? Where does my money go? Who else does the City collect revenue for? What does the City have to spend money on – what is optional? How does City Council decide what to spend on and how much to spend?
Thursday, February 19 7pm – 9pm Heritage Hall 12460 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows • Mayor’s Welcome • Property Tax Assessment explained from a BC Assessment expert • Tax Calculation Process • Business and Strategic Planning Process • Summary of the Budget Components • 2015 Taxes – where we are at and where we are going • Beyond the budget (what drives costs and how can we keep them in check) • Suggestions on how you can get more involved • Council/Mayor wrap-up (Q and A)
Let’s talk taxes - everyone is welcome! RVSP to info@pittmeadows.bc.ca or 604-465-5454
12007 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows • 604.465.5454 • pittmeadows.bc.ca
A8
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
West Coast Kia
HUGE SAVINGS For Everyone
ON ALL INVENTORY! Feb 17-22nd, 2015
“Half Price Payments” for up to one year available on financing offers only on 2015 Rio/Forte/Optima/Rondo/Sorento models
2015
LX MT
2015 Optima SX Turbo shown HWY / CITY 100KM : 5.7L/8.9L
Rio4 SX with Navigation shown HWY / CITY 100KM : 5.3L/7.3L
21
$
from
weekly for 69 payments
0 0 %
financing for up to 84 months
LX AT ‡
‡
$
from
$21 weekly payment includes $1,500 Half Price Payments Credit. Payments based on 2015 Rio LX MT (RO541F) 84-month financing. After 69 weekly payments at $21, weekly payments increase to $43Δ. Half Price Payments Credit may alternatively be taken as a one time lump sum payment.§
1,000
OR A $
36
$
down payment Δ
WINTER EDITION
BONUS
¤
weekly for 28 payments
0 $0 %
financing for up to 84 months
down payment Δ
$36 weekly payment includes $1,000 Half Price Payments Credit. Payments based on 2015 Optima LX AT (OP742F) 84-month financing. After 28 weekly payments at $36, weekly payments increase to $73Δ. Half Price Payments Credit may alternatively be taken as a one time lump sum payment.§
BE READY FOR WINTER WITH OUR WINTER READY MODELS
HEATED SEATS
HEATED STEERING WHEEL
HEATED MIRRORS
WINTER TIRES
REMOTE STARTER
51" TV WIN ME!
Bonus
IPAD MINI *Prizes may not be exactly as shown
Pick an Envelope for your CHANCE to WIN one of these Great Prizes!!
FREE Gift w Every ith Te Drive st
500
$
CASH
ASK US ABOUT OUR OWNER PACKAGE:
• Free Lifetime Oil + Filter Changes • Free Service Loaners • Free Lifetime Car Washes • Free Tire Repairs PLUS OUR EXCLUSIVE WEST COAST KIA ADVANTAGE CARD!
EXPERIENCE SOMETHING GREAT WE’VE GOT WEST COAST KIA YOU COVERED *5-year/100,000 km worry-free comprehensive warranty.
19950 LOUGHEED HWY., PITT MEADOWS
1.855.829.5106
w w w. w e s t c o a s t k i a . c a
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
&places
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
WE PAY CASH for Used Cars
faces Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows
Call
A9
604.343.2036
Showcasing some of this community’s people and happenings
What’s On
www.mrtimes.com Post events 10 days in advance by email to:
editorial@mrtimes.com
Feb 17 to 21: Footloose
• Garibaldi Interdisciplinary Arts Academy presents Footloose – The Musical from Feb. 17 to the 21. Curtain is at 7:30 p.m. Adults: $17, students, and seniors $15. Tickets available at Little Cricket Gallery, 22347 Lougheed Hwy. or at the door, depending on availability.
Monica Fix photos
life is a singer yer, who in his other Mo k Ric er ph ntre gra TIMES photo llow Manor Care Ce tained seniors at Wi ter en tly en rec , DJ and ple Ridge. on 224th Street in Ma
Until Mar. 7: Theatre
Stephanie Wagner and Amelia Norrie from the Caring Place ,joined Lynne Bradley with the Downtown Maple Ridge Business Association, to load out more than 650 articles of clothing gathered during the third annual Turn Down the Heat campaign. mrtimes. www. at story • See com, search “Bradley”
• Hitchcock meets slap-stick in an adaption of Alfred Hitchcock’s novel, The 39 Steps by Maple Ridge’s Theatre in the Country. Four actors tell the tale, as they perform as 120 different characters. Info: www.theatreinthecountry.com.
Feb 18: Garden Club
• Maple Ridge Garden Club meets at 7 p.m. at Fraserview Community Centre. Speaker is Mike Lascelle from Amsterdam Greenhouses. Drop-in is $3, or join the club for $20 a year. Everyone welcome. Info: 604-467-4594.
Feb 18: Drug forum
• Alouette Addictions Services presents: Parent’s Night: Your Kids and Drugs. A forum. Real life perspectives on drugs and alcohol use from teens and professionals. Find out about current trends, what drugs are out there, what to do about it, and how to recognize signs of use. 6 p.m. at Pitt Meadows Secondary. Refreshments. Info: 604 467-5179.
Karli Banns (left) and the Menchies mascot give thumbs up to the new frozen yogurt store in Westgate Shopping Centre recently. The shop was opened by Banns and her mother, Daljit Kooner. A grand opening was spread out over two days, Sunday, Feb. 8 and Monday, Feb. 9.
Feb 18: Writer
• Join Chris Czajkowski at the Maple Ridge Library on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. as she presents her new book, which chronicles her path from English villager to wilderness dweller.
Feb 19: Movie
Graeme Ross/TIMES
Rick
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.
Moyer/TIMES Robi Smith (above), artist in residence at the Maple Ridge Park art studio , held a Valentine’s making craft day recently where kids – like sixyear-old Berlin Rucker (top ) of Coquitlam – came to make keepsakes for the ir parents.
• Cinema Politca presents The Inmates Are Running the Asylum: Stories of the MPA. The film is a documentary about the group that transformed Canada’s Psychiatric Landscape in the 1970s. Showtime: 7 p.m., at Maple Ridge City hall, in the council chambers. Free admission.
• Full list: www.mrtimes.com, search “What’s On”
FIT, BC's #1 SELLING SUBCOMPACT CAR†
LEASE FROM
40 @
$
*
*
2.99% APR# $0 down‡
Weekly on a 60 month term with 260 payments. MSRP $16,070** includes freight and PDI. Model shown: GK5G3FE
Sales 604.343.2036 Service 604.465.7622 20611 LOUGHEED HWY MAPLE RIDGE www.marvjoneshonda.com
Standard features include: • Earth Dreams™ technology powertrain • Multi-angle rearview camera
bchonda.com Ω
2015 FIT BEST NEW SMALL CAR (UNDER $21,000)
• 60/40 Split 2nd Row Magic Seat® †Based on IHS Automotive: Polk Canadian New Retail Vehicle Registrations as of CYTD November 2014 for the Compact SUV/Compact Car/Subcompact Car segments as defined by Honda Canada Inc. *Limited time weekly lease offer and all other offers are from Honda Canada Finance Inc., on approved credit. #The weekly lease offer applies to a new 2015 Fit DX model GK5G3FE for a 60-month period, for a total of 260 payments of $39.97 leased at 2.99% APR based on applying $1050.00 “lease dollars” (which are deducted from the negotiated selling price before taxes). ‡In order to achieve $0 down payment, dealer will cover the cost of tire/battery tax, air conditioning tax (where applicable), environmental fees and levies on the 2015 Fit DX only on customer’s behalf. Down payment of $0.00, first weekly payment and $0 security deposit due at lease inception. Total lease obligation is $10,392.20. Taxes, license, insurance and registration are extra. 120,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.12/km for excess kilometres. **MSRP is $16,070 including freight and PDI of $1,495 based on new 2015 Specified Models described above. License, insurance, registration and taxes are extra and may be required at the time of purchase. ΩFor more information about the AJAC’s Best Small Car (Under $21,000) award, please visit: http:// www.ajac.ca/web/ccoty/2015/comparison_category.asp?cat=176 */#/**Prices and/or payments shown do not include a PPSA lien registration fee of $30.31 and lien registering agent’s fee of $5.25, which are both due at time of delivery and covered by the dealer on behalf of the customer on Specified Models only. Offers valid from January 3rd through February 2nd 2015 at participating Honda retailers. Dealer may sell/lease for less. Dealer trade may be necessary on certain vehicles. Offers valid only for British Columbia residents at BC Honda Dealers locations. Offers subject to change or cancellation without notice. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.bchonda.com or see your Honda retailer for full details.
604-467-5528
604-462-7411
rs
10
Ye a
1
Ye 8 ar s
1
rs
at Pitt Meadows
In support of BC Children’s Hospital
2
Ye 0 ar s
LOCATIONS
www.itsaboutwine.ca
#2 - 20306 Dewdney Trunk Rd. Maple Ridge, BC V2X 3E1
604-465-9988 itsaboutwine@telus.net
Avanti Planning Group
BUSINESS RSVP Today! EXCELLENCE
AWARDS
Regular: $95+tax Tables: $710+tax
RSVP Today! Regular: $95+tax Tables: $710+tax
Thank You To Our Sponsors Presenting
Chamber of Commerce Group Insurance Plan
604-463-8151
3
Ye 6 ar s
Meadow Gardens Golf Club
NOTARY PUBLIC 604-463-7181
604-465-5651
Mike Plain & Julie Johnstone
Saturday, February 21st 2015 Meadow Gar
22369 Lougheed Hwy, Maple Ridge
1545 Lougheed Hwy. Port Coquitlam www.poco-inn-and-suits.com
It’s About Wine!
The Unveiling of the 2014Winners
DON LOCKWOOD
Ye 4 ar s
MNP.CA
Otter Co-op
LOVE YOUR WINE
With more than 50 full and part-time locations across Canada, MNP delivers strategic business solutions from a local perspective.
www.Kirmac.com
12343 Harris Road Pitt Meadows 604-941-6216
CLIENTS
Our professionals understand the specialized markets in which you operate, and can provide unique solutions to meet your business needs.
604-466-6066
604-463-5545
Ye a
4
Assurance & Accounting • Tax • Consulting • Corporate Finance Enterprise Risk Services • Investigative & Forensics Corporate Recovery & Insolvency Valuation & Litigation Support • Succession
•
16 www.rmrecycling.org
22814 Dewdney Trunk Rd. Maple Ridge
10092 236th St., Maple Ridge
Our in-depth suite of business services combines industry expertise, market knowledge and professional insight to identify opportunities to take your business to the next level.
604.463.8831
Ye a
Call the Chamber today at 604-463-3366 for further information! SERVICES
#201 - 11939 224th Street Maple Ridge, BC V2X 6B2
Ye 9 ar s
rs
Ye a
2
Ye 5 ar s
Adjecent to Maple Ridge Garbage Transfer Station
Ye 4 ar s
hcolley@psvca.com wvolpatti@psvca.com
13
Locations to serve you
“You can trust us to get you back on the road safely”
Ridge Meadows Recycling Society
Join the Maple Ridge / Pitt Meadows Chamber of Commerce today as we continue to grow the local economy, support local business and provide your business with resources to succeed!
Masquerade Gala
604-463-8158
rs
22715 - 119th Ave., Maple Ridge
www.pittmeadows.bc.ca
16
Ye a
3
rs
27
Ye 2 ar s
MAPLE RIDGE TANK CLEANING SERVICE LTD.
A Night At The
22490 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge
12007 Harris Rd., Pitt Meadows, BC
Ye a
604-462-1552
NEW MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME
Pitt Meadows
2
3
Celebrating our 27th year as a Chamber Member!
• Advertising via our Chamber newsletter and website • Discounted rates on merchant services such as fuel, payroll, etc • Sponsorship opportunities • Business consulting and support • Access to Chamber boardroom • Referral service for your business
Building our community through music
604-465-5454
Executive Director
10 Reasons to Join the Chamber of Commerce • Business to Business exclusive promotions • Health, dental and disability benefits package. • Business after Business Networking • Networking through events, luncheons & tradeshows
604-467-6612
1
12101 - 224th Street, Maple Ridge 604-463-5101
Email: reception@mhwlaw.ca www.mhwlaw.ca
Terry Becker
City of
Now two locations to serve you Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge
www.bergthorson.com
604-467-5256
Ye 5 ar s
British Columbia’s largest Legion ... serving our Veterans and the communities of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows for 87 years.
22334 McIntosh Avenue Maple Ridge, BC V2X 3C1 604-467-6951
23284 McKay Avenue Maple Ridge
rs
BRANCH 88 MAPLE RIDGE
Ye 1 ar s
Ye a
rs
35
ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION
3
w w w. b e l l l o ck . c a
224th & Lougheed 604-467-1554 • haneyplacemall.com
Ye 0 ar s
604-467-4957
The Chamber of Commerce Serving Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows offers a wide variety of business resources, support and benefits programs to the business community. The Chamber is an advocate and voice of business, a connector of services for members, an organizer of various business to business promotions and events.
22
3
11982-224th Street Maple Ridge, BC
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
26
Benefits of joining your local Chamber
Ye 2 ar s
3
BELL LOCKSMITH LTD.
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Ye 6 ar s
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Ye 8 ar s
A10
Platinum
Gold
Video Presentation
Prize
Floral Media
“Supporting the Chamber membership since 1981”
Signage
Photo Booth
• Career Vocational Training • Workplace Certification • Occupational Health & Safety • General Interest & Personal Development
20575 Thorne Avenue
604.466.6555 Ext 203
www.rmcollege.ca
604 465 9993 BECKERLAWYERS.CA Meadowvale Centre, Pitt Meadows
RSVP TODAY at www.ridgemeadowschamber.com or 604 457 4599
A11
A12
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Youth facility
Still open for business DON’T LET YOUR DEBT EAT YOU ALIVE!
An emergency shelter for teens in Maple Ridge will remains open days, despite closer of overnight beds. by Cole Wagner editorial@mrtimes.com
The battle to keep the Iron Horse Youth Shelter running in some capacity is far from over. That was the message community members and supporters of the youth shelter received at a recent luncheon hosted by the Alouette Home Start Society. The society runs the Maple Ridge youth shelter, which was forced to shut down its overnight operations at the end of January after changes to federal funding programs last year forced the shelter to search for other sources of revenue. An appeal to members of the community helped the shelter stay open through the month of January, but when a bid for federal funding fell through, it was the final nail in the coffin, said executive director Stephanie Ediger. The shelter will no longer offer overnight emergency beds to teens, but it will remain open and staffed during the day, Ediger explained. “The important part of the message was while the shelter is closed, the Iron Horse
facility is still open for business,” she said. Essential amenities, such as a shower, food, clothing and laundry are available, as well as counselling and referrals to other support services, Ediger elaborated. Iron Horse will need to raise about $10,000 per month in order to provide those services, she said, noting fundraising is ongoing. The point of the recent luncheon was also “to strategically inspire ongoing commitment from the community,” said Ediger. Members of the community have already contributed more “The important part of than $15,000 the message was, while towards keeping Iron Horse the shelter is closed, the operational Iron Horse facility is still since it was announced that open for business.” the shelter’s Stephanie Ediger funding was being cut. Two cheque presentations were made at the luncheon. Baj Dhahan and Gurtek Shoker, local Tim Horton’s franchise owners, provided a second installment of their $12,500 donation, while the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver contributed $4,200. About 30 people attended the luncheon, according to Ediger, including representatives from the RCMP, Meadow Ridge Rotary, and MLA Marc Dalton. “We did not invite public figures,” said Ediger. “Unless they were already donors, or individuals or members of groups who had been asking how they could help with Iron Horse.”
SO YOU’D LIKE TO QUIT SMOKING? YOUR BEST CHANCE
We can take the pain out of quitting…easier than most people think. You get a new lease on a better, longer life. YOUR COST $30 And a committed hour & a half for 5 consecutive evenings. No drugs to buy! No paraphernalia! No Gimmicks! ALL YOU NEED to bring is YOUR desire to quit. We will help you QUIT FOR GOOD…for the rest of your life. Now’s your time. Now YOU can! Information & registration at (604) 312-1849 February 23rd at 7pm 21467 Dewdney Trunk Rd., Maple Ridge ON BEHALF OF
Judith
Bergthorson’s FAMILY AND DEAR FRIENDS (many of whom were majorly involved with organizing and performing at the “awesome” February 8th memorial) I would like to appreciate all those who attended, sent their regards, offered donations and performed at this honoring of the contribution Judith made to each of our lives and to the community around us. It is my responsibility to carry on the vision and concrete actions Judith brought to the Bergthorson Academy of Musical Arts. It is your challenge to keep the joy of music alive and well in your hearts, your family and to have the courage and generosity exemplified by Judith’s life to share your love for live music wherever possible.
THANK YOU ALL! ROBERT HORNSEY
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
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
On stage
Satiating ballet appetites
Atlantic ballerinas will grace the local stage, as part of a varied month of programming coming up at The ACT. by Cole Wagner editorial@mrtimes.com
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
Olga Petiteau (seen here), originally from Paris, will dance the lead in Piaf. from children’s entertainers Bobs and LoLo on Family Day. Later in the month, The ACT will host ALT-Fest, a celebration of alternative dance, music, and art spread over three days in support of the Friends in Need Food Bank. It’s all a part of an effort to find art that speaks to everyone in the community, said Pighin. Tickets are available through The ACT at 604-476-2787, or visit www.theactmapleridge.org.
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
240 St
Rainbow Creek
Maple Ridge’s ballet aficionados will have their appetite for high art satisfied this month as the Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada returns to The ACT. Atlantic Ballet, based out of eastern Canada, will return to The ACT for the first time in six years on Feb. 22 with their production Piaf. From budding ballerinas to general art fans, there is a desire for classical ballet shows in Maple Ridge, said Karen Pighin, communications manager at The ACT. Especially, she added, when the shows come at “an extremely reasonable price.” The ballet tells the story of Edith Piaf, a French singer born in 1915. Piaf, choreographed by Igor Dobrovolskiy, incorporates music from Piaf’s career, which gives the production “a wide appeal,” said Pighin. Dobrovolskiy will be hosting a question and answer period in the lobby of The ACT before the show opens. For Lindy Sisson, executive and artistic director for The ACT, booking the show was an exercise in knowing your audience. “With Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada, I was looking for a classical ballet. I also knew that our audiences liked story-focused ballets,” Sisson said. Piaf comes towards the end of a busy and varied February at The ACT, which kicked off the month with a performance
A13
Way ka na Ka
112 Ave
A14
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Nicolas fundraiser
Sparkle efforts pay dividends
An event to raise funds towards a Maple Ridge family was a huge success. by Troy Landreville tlandreville@mrtimes.com
Judging by comments from the organizer and the family it benefited, the Sparkle For Nicolas fundraiser truly sparkled. Proceeds from the Jan. 24 event at Townhall Public House on Lougheed Highway went to two-year-old Nicolas Schwuchow and his family that includes dad Rolf, mom Petra, and four-year-old big sister “Izzy.” Nicolas has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1, a terminal and degenerative disease that causes weakness and wasting of the voluntary muscles in infants and children. SMA, a disease that affects one in 6,000 people, eventually impacts every muscle in the body, hindering the ability to walk, stand, sit, eat, breathe, and swallow. The mind always remains unaffected and children with SMA are bright, sensitive, and playful in spite of their failing bodies. Through the “A Boy Named Nicolas” campaign, funds are being raised to assist the family with providing Nicolas the opportunity to live a normal life. This includes an above ground pool for water therapy and major modifications to the 45-year-old house that the family has lived in for the past six years. In the most recent fundraiser, profiled in The TIMES [‘Sparkling’ fundraiser for toddler, Jan. 22], Sparkle for Nicolas organizer Janet Rutledge sold items from Stella Dot, a direct sales accessories brand with a focus
Maple Ridge toddler Nicolas Schwuchow and his parents Rolf and Petra were the happy recipients of a $1,000 cheque from close family friend Janet Rutledge on Feb. 9. on women’s jewelry and accessories. “The Sparkle for Nicolas event was really great,” said Rutledge, who has been friends with Petra for 14 years. “The venue was fantastic and I was grateful to partner with Kylee Turner, general manager at the Townhall Pub.” From the fundraiser, Rutledge presented Rolf and Petra with a cheque for $1,000 on Feb. 9. This donation consisted of her full sales commission and full “coaching” commissions donated by Rutledge’s upline director, Leah Leipert of Pitt Meadows. “I was able to offer award-winning Stella & Dot accessories for purchase while simultaneously giving back to the family,” Rutledge noted. “It was a win-win: I wanted to come up
Grant
WIN AN RV
Arts council gets grant
• More at www.mrtimes.com, search “arts council”
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 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. & BEER CANS S E L T T BO
Provided by
BC’s Ultimate RV Show!
This year’s show will showcase more than 200 recreational vehicles in every price range!
2015 Hideout 19FLB by Keystone RV
Dry weight of only 4,100 pounds! includes double-door refer, A/C, stereo with outside speakers, furnace, three-burner stove with oven, six-gallon hot water heater, outside shower, 30lb propane tanks, power awning, four stabilizer jacks and more.Retail value is $23,173. Enter at the show with admission or submit your ballot to become one of three finalists to win! The Grand Prize RV will be drawn on Tuesday Feb. 24, 2015.
Earlybird RV Show & Sale Feb. 19 - 22, 2015 MAIL IN, OR DROP OFF.
The Maple Ride and Pitt Meadows Arts Council has been awarded a grant of $20,151 from the B.C. Arts Council. The funding will support its operating activities for the 2015-16 year. “Provincial funding supporting B.C.’s many community arts councils is so important to ensuring a strong presence for the arts in our society” said Lindy Sisson, executive and artistic director of the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Arts Council. “Our annual BCAC grant forms part of the public support which allows us to deliver programs and projects that engage with the community in meaningful ways.” The funding comes from $24 million that the BC Arts Council has received from the provincial government to support artists, arts activities and culture in 2014/15.
with another way to help the family through my business and provided them with more than $800 worth of product to use as they wish; likely as silent auction items in upcoming pub night fundraisers.” Rolf relayed his heartfelt appreciation from the family. “Thank you once again to Janet for the time and energy you poured into making this event successful, not only in total dollars donated, but in helping share the campaign for A Boy Named Nicolas…,” Rolf said. When she came by to give the cheque, Rutledge said she loves spending time with the family. “Nicolas was true to his normal self – full of smiles and song. I asked him if his smiles were all for me and I told him that it made me feel really special,” Rutledge said. “He said ‘Yes,’ but then told me that he was special too, which might just be the understatement of the year. This wonderful little boy has enriched so many lives and brought people closer together.” Rutledge wished she could have added more zeroes to the cheque she presented to the family. “As the campaign continues, so do their hopes that they will be able to realize the extreme makeover needed to improve Nicolas’s quality of life,” Rutledge said. “I hope that everyone in the community who reads about or has the opportunity to meet A Boy Named Nicolas will continue to support and donate to this family. They deserve every good thing that could possibly come their way.” People can follow Nicolas on his Facebook page: www.facebook. com/pages/A-Boy-NamedNicolas/606296976126778 as well on his website at www.aboynamednicolas.ca.
Carrier of the week Zoey & Noah Horn
Name: Address: Phone: Email: Mail to: The Now Newspaper Suite 201-7889 132nd St., Surrey, BC V3W 4N2 Deadline for your entry is Friday Feb. 20, 2015 12pm
Tradex, Abbotsford
Admission: Adults $8, Seniors (60+) $6, Youth (13-19) $5, Children (12 and under) Free. Multi-Day Pass (Adults and/or Youth) $10.
For more information: 604-870-4678 (870-GORV) or visit www.RvShowsBC.com
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
A15
Feline friends
Sickness can creep up on senior cats, just like humans
A
s cats enter their senior years, 3. Diabetes – Many older cats can there are a number of disease develop diabetes – where the body does conditions that pet owners not produce enough insulin. should be aware of as they can It is often associated with cats that have silently sneak up on your cat and even a history of obesity. cause death. They may show increased drinking and 1. Chronic kidney disurinating, muscle wasting ease – One of the most over the back, occasionally common diseases in older vomiting, and sometimes cats. an acetone odour to their They often exhibit breath. Some cats show increased thirst and urinaa drop in the back legs, tion, weight loss, bad or hock joints, when they breath, lethargy, and hidwalk. ing behaviour. Treatment can be very If caught early, there successful with insulin are treatments and special injections – usually twice diets that can help to delay a day – as well as speby Dr. Michael Orser the progression of kidney cial diets that are lower failure. in carbohydrates, higher Veterinarian and owner of Alouette Animal Hospital The key is to have blood in protein, and higher in info@alouetteanimalhospital.ca fibre. tests done in the early stages to determine if kid4. Heart disease – Cats ney problems are a concan develop heart disease cern. like dogs do, however, it can be harder to 2. Hyperthyroidism – It is a very comdiagnose. mon senior cat condition, where they They may or may not have a heart muroften also show increased thirst and urin- mur, but often have an increased heart ation; however, they also eat more than rate, difficulty breathing, sudden onset of normal yet lose weight and may vomit painful hind legs; paralysis, and cold hind frequently. legs may also be seen. Elevated heart rate and sometimes It can be diagnosed by X-rays and ultrablood pressure may also be seen. sound of the heart, and there are medicaHyperthyroid cats can be well managed tions that will help the cat to live with it. with either medication, special low iodine The long-term prognosis, however, in cats diets, or radioactive iodine treatments. with heart disease is generally poor.
5. Cancer – Depending on the location of the cancer in the body, treatment may or may not be successful. Often cancer in the abdomen will involve growths in the intestine or other organs. Cats often show signs of weight loss, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, weakness, and lethargic. They may also have a distended belly. Treatment will involve determining the
extent and type of tumor present and then considering medications to reduce its size and slow the growth. Some cats can live with some forms of cancer quite comfortably for a long time and others are more aggressive and hard to cure. If you have a senior cat in the house, be on the lookout for any of these symptoms that are seen in this list of top five conditions we see in cats regularly.
WESTGATE ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Pet Pause
Serving Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows and Surrounding Area Since 2003
Digital X-RAYS Available
COMMITTED TO PROVIDING
VETERINARY CARE WITH
A PERSONAL TOUCH Walk Ins Welcome
WESTGATE SHOPPING CENTRE 650-20395 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge
604.465.3676 Mon.— Fri. 8:00am — 8:00pm • Sat. 8:00am- 6:00pm • Sun. 9:00am — 4:00pm
February is Pet Dental Month Bring in your dog and cat for dental and receive 10% OFF teeth cleaning.
NOW AVAILABLE IN CLINIC Laser surgery, Digital Xray & Ultrasound.
Examinations ...................................... $ 40 Cat Neuter from.................................. $ 50 Cat Spay from..................................... $ 60 Basic Cat Vaccine (FVRCPC) ................. $ 28 Dog Neuter from ................................ $ 70 Dog Spay from.................................... $ 85 Basic Dog Vaccine (DA2PP) .................. $ 32
• All medical & surgical procedures performed in clean, modern climate controlled facility
KATIE’S PLACE This is BENSLEY. He’s a quiet, sweet, loving boy. Bensley is always overlooked because he is black and undemanding. If you take the time to reach out to him he will shower you with love. He’s one of those cats who will sit with you forehead to forehead, and make all your troubles go away. Bensley is still fairly young has many years of love and affection to give to the right person. He will need a fairly quiet home. Bensley is gentle, polite, and is happy to give you space if you need it. He’s the type of cat who can manage on his own and won’t trip you when you walk in the house at the end of the day asking for attention. There is nothing better than ending a tough day with Bensley by your side. Come meet this incredibly understanding cat.
10255 JACKSON ROAD, MAPLE RIDGE (BEHIND THE SPCA) • 604-463-7917 Hours: noon-2:00 Saturdays & Sundays • www.katiesplace.com
LAYSA is approximately 8 years old and she is a torbie. Laysa’s owner became very ill and was unable to care for her. Laysa ended up in the shelter system and eventually with us. We were told she was not adoptable because she was aggressive and bit people. It’s hard to see that side of Laysa. The worst she’s done with us is paw us gently to give her a treat. Laysa is friendly and vocal and loves to be the centre of attention. Her endearing face is hard to ignore. Laysa will follow you around her pen just in case some tasty morsel drops out of your pocket. This girl will make a wonderful companion for someone. She lost her beloved person and her home. Now she patiently waits for another.
PEPPERMINT has been with us for years. She is a friendly and very pretty cat. Peppermint is not a cuddler. She enjoys her pets, but she’s not the type who will plant herself on your lap making it impossible to move. Peppermint is a very independent cat, and will do best in a home with no small children, as she is not used to them. We were also told by a previous adopter that Peppermint did not get along with the other cats in the house. Oddly enough Peppermint shares her pen with several other cats and seems to have no issues with them. Peppermint is at least 10 years old and it’s about time someone takes this girl into their life. Although she seems comfortable at the shelter this is not the place to call home.
Haney Animal Hospital
“YOUR FULL SERVICE VETERINARIAN CLINIC”
Rachel and Olivia are sisters who were trapped as ferals kittens. They went into foster care to be socialized, but they are both still a bit shy. They are the type of cats who will come out of their hiding spot in the evening when you are sitting and watching TV, and slowly make their way onto your lap. They are beautiful cats. Their midnight black fur is silky soft, and their eyes sparkle like emeralds. There is definitely a strong bond between these two girls and they will need to go together. They will need a quiet home with no small children or dogs. A home they can relax in. We think in the right home it’s just a matter of time before they turn into the loveable girls we know they are. The minute you touch them they melt into your hand.
104-22645 Dewdney Trunk Rd
#
604-476-2525
www.haneyanimalhospital.com Office Hours Monday to Saturday 8AM-8PM - Sunday 11AM-7PM
Member of
A16
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
.com
-6
7%
U -6 P T 7% O
Get exclusive access to the best offers in the city
Complete 90-Minute Heavenly Rose Spa Package Including, Rose Hydrator Full Body Scrub, Body Wrap, European Facial and More
White Feather Duvet for Twin, Queen, or King-Size Bed, Tax and Shipping Included
Lumiere Skin Health and Wellness Centre
Superior Quilting
$208
From
$69
$148.28
Redeem Online
From
$49
-5
2%
U -5 P T 7% O
Vancouver, BC
Authentic Hands-On Parisian Truffle-Making Class or Macaron-Making Class for 1 or 2, Including French Meringues Tasting, Specialty Drinks and Much More
A 60-Minute Full Body Massage with Hot Organic Coconut Oil
Professor and Pigeon
TLC Massages
$99
From
$45
$60
Burnaby, BC
$29
-4
-8
7%
8%
Vancouver, BC
Professional Steam Carpet Cleaning for 3 Rooms, Plus Hallway OR Up to 700 Square Feet
Two Vietnamese Subs, Appetizer and Che Dessert for 2 People, Valid for Lunch or Dinner
Peak Janitorial
Che-Licious Desserts and Snacks
$299
Redeem Online
$39
$26.75
Vancouver, BC
Get these and other exclusive offers at SocialShopper.com Visit us online
Find an offer you like
Buy it
Enjoy it!
$14
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Sports On Deck
QB going to Guelph The tradition of bright lights and a full crowd on Friday night are two reasons outgoing Notre Dame quarterback and Maple Ridge resident Theodore Landers committed to the University of Guelph Gryphons. • More online: www.mrtimes.com, click on “Sports”
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Recreation
A17
Did you know?
We offer non-judgmental support for everyone. No matter what.
604.467.5179 • www.alouetteaddictions.org
Ridge Meadows Flames
Flame out: Junior hockey season ends
Despite a strong finish that saw them post a 6-3-0-1 record in the new year, Maple Ridge’s junior Bs will miss the post-season dance. by Troy Landreville
tlandreville@mrtimes.com
Dickson nets two Curtis Dickson – who earned Western Lacrosse Association MVP honours in 2013 as a member of the Maple Ridge Burrards – scored twice and added two assists for the Calgary Roughnecks in their 13-9 loss to the Vancouver Stealth at the Langley Events Centre on Saturday. Congratulations to Shannon McKenna, one of the TIMES’ Facebook followers, who won a pair of tickets to Saturday’s National Lacrosse League game. • More online: www.mrtimes.com, click on “Sports”
‘Veteran’ only 10 Veteran Sun Runner Kaela Brandson has been running North America’s largest 10-kilometre race for half her life. Of course, the Maple Ridge resident is only 10. It will be the Grade 5 student’s fifth consecutive Sun Run this spring, and she’s gearing up to shave 10 minutes off her time from last year. • More online: www.mrtimes.com, click on “Sports”
Bartley on blueline
Troy Landreville/TIMES
Ridge Meadows Flames forward Bradley Crompton landed a left-handed gloved punch to the face of Mission City Outlaws defenceman (and Maple Ridge native) Jacob Gushue in Pacific Junior Hockey League action Friday at Planet Ice. The Flames defeated the Outlaws 7-3 to close out their season. Since that time, they went 6-30-2, and posted two wins and an overtime loss in February. “The last three weeks, I was really happy with the way the guys played,” Fiset said. “They were playing for each other and playing for the team and not playing to advance their careers. Everybody was buying into supporting each other and we got goals from everybody.” And, if you compare the Flames to last year’s squad that made the playoffs with a 17-22-2-3 mark, they only had one fewer regulation win. But all this is little consolation for the Flames and Fiset, who had high hopes for his team coming
More Photos Online
www.mrtimes.com
Troy Landreville/TIMES
The Vancouver Stealth had their hands full keeping Calgary Roughnecks star Curtis Dickson in check at the Langley Events Centre on Saturday.
In the end, it boiled down to consistency, or lack thereof, and the Ridge Meadows Flames’ inability to keep up with the rest of the conference’s teams. The junior B Flames will miss the playoffs after finishing last in the Pacific Junior Hockey League’s Harold Brittain Conference with a 16-25-0-3 regular season record. The improvement of the Mission City Outlaws, and the shifting of the lowly Port Moody Panthers to the Tom Shaw Conference, equated into Ridge Meadows missing the playoffs. With a 21-20-1-2 mark, the Outlaws made an 18-point jump from last season and subsequently placed third in the conference, with the Abbotsford Pilots (21-210-2) taking the final playoff berth. As for the Flames, inconsistency, especially in the final two months of 2014, ultimately sealed their fate. “It was November,” Flames head coach and general manager Jamie Fiset said, regarding a month in which his team lost six of eight games. “The month of November was a really tough stretch for us. There was some inconsistency, there. We had a really strong start to the season, and a strong finish, but it was that middle stretch.” Ridge Meadows showed signs of life in the new year but by then, it was too late. The Flames carried a five-game losing skid into 2015 and after a 7-2 loss on Jan. 2 to the Langley Knights, held a dismal 10-22 record.
Maple Ridge defenceman Victor Bartley is getting a decent amounbt of ice time with the Nashville Predators, who hold the National Hockey League’s best record at 38-12-6. In his 28th game of the season, Bartley, who played his minor hockey locally, picked up his ninth assist of the season in the Preds’ 3-1 win over the visiting New Jersey Devils on Saturday night. • More online: www.mrtimes.com, click on “Sports” Troy Landreville/TIMES
Send your scores and game reports to sports@mrtimes.com
Ridge Meadows Flames forward Jonathin Weloy looked to get past Mission City Outlaws defenceman Erick Miller in PJHL action Friday at Planet Ice. Weloy finished with a pair of assists in a 7-3 win for the home team.
onds into the final stanza and into the season. again at 1:56, followed by a short“We were real happy to finhanded goal from Boston Colley at ish third [in the Harold Britain the 3:52 mark as Ridge Meadows Conference standings last year], seized control. but this year we’re going to finDavid McGowan scored for ish first,” Fiset said during the Mission City at 6:32 to narrow Flames’ training camp at Planet the visitors’ deficit to 4-2, but the Ice in August [Flames look to Flames turned up the heat after keep fire hot, Aug. 19, Maple that with three unanswered goals. Ridge-Pitt Meadows TIMES]. The Flames’ struggles this seaRendle completed his hat trick son wasn’t for a lack of effort, with 10 minutes and change to go Fiset said: “I thought our effort for in regulation, followed by backthe most part was there; a couple to-back power play goals from games during the year, we were Cameron Alder and a little flat. It came Ben Chipman as the down to gaining Flames moved ahead momentum and not 7-2. being able to hold The Outlaws’ onto it. We’d win a Brody Dyck scored couple of games and the final goal of the then lose the next game with 4:03 to four.” go in regulation That said, particutime. larly in 2015, Fiset After a scoreless liked the make-up of first period, the his team. Flames’ Nicholas “The wins and lossMaydaniuk opened ES TIM Troy Landreville/ es, you’ll forget about, the scoring at the t se ach Jamie Fi co but you’ll never forget 8:58 mark of the ad he es am Fl n unfold your teammates,” he second period. watched the actio e. Ic said. “I really liked the Hayden et an Pl at Friday group we had, especially Mowbray tied the the team we had after game for the Outlaws with a Christmas.” power play marker, scored 12:29 Flames 7, Mission City into the middle stanza. Outlaws 3 ICE CHIPS: Fiset plans to be The Flames finished their reguback with the Flames next season, lar season on a winning note, by and, like every off-season, he’ll trouncing Mission City 7-3 Friday have some re-tooling to do. at Planet Ice. “We’re definitely looking for In a wild third period that saw some pieces to fill in,” he said. the Flames outgun the Outlaws “We’ll see what happens. It’s not by a 6-2 count, Ridge Meadows going to be a complete rebuild, scored three times in the opening but more a matter of being patient four minutes of the frame to turn and making the right decisions.” • See more at www.mrtimes.com, a 1-1 tie in a 4-1 lead. search for “Flames” Jordan Rendle scored 58 sec-
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Prom dresses
Online apparel deals not worth it
THE FOURTEENTH ANNUAL HANEY ROTARY
2 15
Badly made knock-offs are a growing problem for sellers in high-end industry.
CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
In support of youth locally and internationally
by Barbara Yaffe
Wednesday, May 20th, 2015 at Swan-e-set Bay Resort and Country Club
Special to The TIMES
proudly presented by
The Haney Rotary Club
Steve Bosch/Vancouver Sun
Brad Chenkis, owner of the After Five dress shop in the Oakridge Shopping Centre, displays the real thing and a fake prom dress. increase in prom dress prices, many young shoppers have started searching the Internet for better deals,” said After Five coowner Brad Chenkis. The problem of poorquality counterfeit dresses has been around for several years, he said. But this year “we’re hearing many more stories about bad products.” The websites, he asserts, are fronts for factories in China that produce copies from no more than a photo image. “They quickly make it in their factory and ship it to
our young consumer, with a cheaper fabric, bad fit, and usually in a state that no seamstress can repair.” The dresses are indeed a bargain, but the adage one gets what they pay for seems to apply. The online buyers are disappointed when the dresses arrive, said Chenkis, because the websites feature the original manufacturers’ genuine images, and of course their product is something entirely different.
– Barbara Yaffe is with the Vancouver Sun
• More at www.mrtimes.com, search “prom”
Serving Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows since 1952
supported by
Dr. Patrick O’Brien CIM
West Coast Auto Group
1973
West Coast Auto Group
2013
Celebrating 40 years serving our community
1PM SHOT GUN START! Tournament fees are $170 per golfer*
*includes a box lunch, range access, golf cart, 18 holes of golf, tee gifts, on course side competitions and barbeques, dinner and access to an outstanding silent and live auction all in aid of youth charities. For more information about player registration or sponsorship opportunities please contact event chair Mike Murray at mwmurray@shaw.ca
INTERIOR TO LOWER MAINLAND TRANSMISSION PROJECT CONDUCTOR STRINGING WORK Stringing of the transmission line (conductors) along the new transmission towers for the Interior to Lower Mainland Transmission Project has begun.
Conductor ends will need to be joined with the use of an
Whistler
Cheekye Substation
Squamish
implosive connector, which is a metallic sleeve with a small charge in it. Using safe and controlled methods, the sleeve is detonated which compresses (welds) the conductor ends together. This split-second process will create a flash with smoke and a bang similar to fireworks. Traffic control measures will be in place as needed. Work hours will conform to municipal bylaws.
Nicola Substation
Merritt
y5
Helicopters are required for this work. The contractor has obtained the necessary permits and permissions and is in compliance with Transport Canada requirements.
Lytton
Pemberton
Hw
A Maple Ridge mother wants to warn others about the risk involved in buying bargain prom dresses on the Internet. Krista Kong, overwhelmed by the assortment of costs associated with her daughter Kayla’s upcoming graduation celebrations, tried to economize. She purchased a mint green one-shoulder La Femme dress online, for $155 US. After a $40 customs charge and currency conversion, the final bill was $208. The La Femme gown at After Five, the Oakridge mall formal wear retailer where Kong and her teenage daughter initially tried on the dress, sported a $530 pricetag. When Kong came upon what looked like the same dress on the Lovingdresses. com website, she recounts: “I knew it was a knockoff but I thought to myself, I’ll take a chance, it sounded like such a good deal.” Kong reports the dress she purchased was a disappointment. It “looked cheap,” adorned with plain white lace, nothing remotely like the jewelled lace featured on the dress in the website photo. “Kayla was crestfallen, very upset. She said to me, ‘mom you aren’t going to make me wear that dress, are you?’” Kong returned to After Five to purchase the original dress. She now is working with a seamstress at the store to document the inadequacy of her online purchase in a bid to get a refund from her credit card company. Lovingdresses.com turned down her refund request. The online retailer describes itself as “a global leading online retailer” established in 2010, providing access to “verified manufacturers in China. “Whether you are a wholesaler looking to increase revenues, a retailer who refuses to pay the high prices in your country, or a shopper looking for the latest style dress, we provides (sic) wholesale prices and first-rated (sic) service.” Proms in the Lower Mainland start taking place in May, with dress buying decisions being made now. “With the weakening Canadian dollar and an
Harrison Lake
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Pitt Meadows Coquitlam
Meridian Substation
Maple Ridge Harrison Hot Springs
Surrey
Hope
Kent
Fraser River
Ingledow Substation
Yale
Mission Langley
Chilliwack Abbotsford ILM ROUTE
Clayburn Substation
EXISTING 500 KV CIRCUITS
The new 247 kilometre, 500 kilovolt transmission line
BCH 08-29
between Merritt and Coquitlam will expand the capacity of the system that brings power to businesses and homes in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. For more information please visit bchydro.com/ilm or contact BC Hydro at stakeholderengagement@bchydro.com or at 604 623 4472, toll-free 1 866 647 3334.
4472
A18
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
A21
A22
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times
Langley Farm Market PRODUCE
PINK POMELO
CELERY
49
¢
2 For
/lb.
BROCCOLI CROWN ASIAN CUT
7.24/kg ..........................................
Product of CALIFORNIA
3
$ 99
/lb.
3
Chicken-Thighs (Bone In) (FP)
$ 29
/lb.
2 G R O C E RY
5.92/kg ...............................................
426g .................................................................................. Special
International
Gourmet Sliced Mushroom
284ml .................................................................................Special
Zucchini Loaf
450g ...........................................................................................
Freybe
Freybe
100g .........................................................
Beef-Striploin Steak (FP)
$ 69
/lb.
19.78/kg .............................................
1
$ 98
5
$ 99
/ea.
100% Natural Coconut Water
Prairie
/lb.
Premium Ground Flax Seeds
2
$ 85
/ea.
Birdnest Cookies
300g ..............................................................................................
100g .............................................................
PITT MEADOWS
12438 Harris Road
604-460-7122
3
$ 00
DELI
Hungarian Salami
FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: • Produce Stocker • Meat cutter • caShier • Grocery clerk
99¢/ea.
1 /ea. 454g ...................................................................................Special $549/ea. B A K E RY
$ 29
1
$ 88
Mozzarella Cheese
100g .............................................................
WE ARE HIRING!
LANGLEY FARM MARKET
8
$ 99
520ml ..................................................................................Special
Valid Tuesday, February 17 - Sunday, February 22, 2015 while quantities last.
LOUGHEED HWY.
/2 lb. bag
Chaokoh
Organic Tri Color Quinoa
N
/ea.
CLEMENTINE MANDARIN SEEDLESS
79 M E AT
Elan
Turkey
99
¢
¢
/lb.
Pork-Butt Roast B/L
3
$ 00
Product of BC. ($1.74 KG)
¢
PITT MEADOWS ONLY
Product Of WASHINGTON (3 LB BAG)
GALA APPLE
Product of CALIFORNIA ($2.18 KG)
99
BOILER ONION
Product of CALIFORNIA
Product of CALIFORNIA ($1.08 KG)
/ea.
1
$ 38
Your choice. Our honour. Our Effort. Our award. 2013 - 2014
2013-2014
LFM LANGLEY FARM MARKET
For fresh and quality foods For freshness & quality you can count on!
Thank you to all our valued NHsILmGJs fLJ PLHJ LngLFng sHppLJI
MAPLE RIDGE
#1-22621 Lougheed Hwy
604-466-0281
W
LOUGHEED HWY.
NeW hourS: MLnMOP IL SHnMOP 8:30 Om - 7:00 pm. hLQFMOPs 9:00 Om IL 6:00 pm.
E