Fall Hike - Upper Coaster Trail



Cranbrook


On the other side of Kettle Lake is a trail called Upper Coaster. Its a steep but short little push to the top which provides magnificent views of Cranbrook and the entire Rocky Mountain Range. 

View from the top



Cranbrook Community Spirits

Welcoming all ghosts and goblins .......

For a Hallowe'en Supper try removing the seeds from a sugar pumpkin and filling it with your favourite meatloaf recipe. Bake for a little longer than ususal.  Slice like a cake and serve with mashed potatoes and a green veg.

Council Quotes and Questions from the Council Meeting of Monday October 25th

Councillor Whetham gave a detailed list of concerns about Bylaw 3712, which would extend the PLA (Preliminary Layout Approval) for subdivisions over 300 units for up to 8 years. This is a radical departure from normal practise and whereas most councillors saw this as a progressive move, Councillor Whetham and a number of taxpayers would like to see more research done on the potential pitfalls in the future. What are the legal ramifications for the city and for developers if provincial legislation or even the city’s own bylaws change but due to the PLA we are not able to meet those new requirements? Does this provide certainty for the city or for the developers? This bylaw is a radical departure from accepted practice and Councillor Whetham feels it fosters a speculative approach to land development.

In reference to this discussion and in support of the bylaw we heard:

Mayor Manjak
“I don’t see this as reacting. We are just responding to a normal process that we’ve been doing with this development.” in reference to Shadow Mountain.
Our question:
(As in - issuing the PLA before an Official Community Plan for that area was drawn up and where public input could have been given?)

Councillor Wavrecan
“In all the councils I’ve been involved with we have strived for to get government out of the way and in doing that don’t do it at the expense of taxpayers.”
Our question:
(As in – Cranbrook taxpayers have not suffered any infrastructure inadequacies, roads are good? no ongoing issues with the waste water or storm sewers?)


Councillor Schatchsneider
“Developers build communities. All those subdivisions were put in by developers and that’s what expanded our city. ”
Our question:
(As in don’t worry about the people, just build the houses? Do houses build community?)

What’s Happening

Tonight Thursday October 28th
Kimberley Camera Club Slide Show
COR Lecture Theatre 7:00pm

Tonight
Key City Gallery
Meet the artists
5:00 – 7:00pm
Show runs uintil November 15th
Theatre Box Office hours

Tonight
Reception and Readings
Artrageous Gallery
Heroes Tall Tales, Myths and Fantasies
7:00 –10pm
250-426-4223

Saturday October 30th
Charitable Knitwear Sale
For
Minkha Women in Bolivia
World Neighbours in Guatamala and Honduras
Anglican Church on 13th Av
10:am – 4:00pm

Saturday October 30th
Halloween Charity Party
Colombo Hall
Tickets $26.00
250-426-7096

October 30th and 31st
Ghost Walks Fort Steele
7:00pm
250-417-6000 for tickets
$12 and $10

Thirst - The Movie

Over 30 people gathered at the College of the Rockies Wednesday night to watch the documentary Thirst.  Thirst shows the attempts at water privatization throughout India, South America and the United States and the actions of its citizens facing this serious threat to their water.  The movie spends a considerable amount of time on the battle in Stockton, California and its city councils' attempt to privatize water services.  A citizens group was formed and attempts were made to force a referendum on this particular issue. While not initially successful the water supply was eventually returned to municipal control.  Water has become a highly politicized issue and the main question seems to be the conflict over considering access to  water as a human right or whether it should be  considered a commodity bought and sold by large multinational corporations.  After the movie the audience took part in an engaged discussion around the following questions

1) Are there any concerns around water in Cranbrook?
2) Are there things we should be watchful of?
3) Are there things we can do as individuals or groups?

We in Cranbrook are not without concerns about our water and it is important for us to become educated about local water issues and if necessary pressure local and provincial governments to make decisions that reflect local interests and values.

To voice any concerns you may have about water:
http://ourwaterbc.ca/

Priest and Others Speak Out

A public hearing for the Rockyview Official Community Plan was held last evening in the Manual Training Building. The hearing also involved the OCP for the Wycliffe area. Four presenters addressed the Rockyview Plan which at this time has significant relevance to Cranbrook Community Forest and direction to the east.

• Ben Gibson spoke of being in favour of higher density zoning for the area in which he lives on the West side of Cranbrook.
• Roy Catherall, Community Forest Society and Sharon Cross, Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook both addressed concerns around the removal of a clause from the plan and at the City’s request which stated, ‘The development of roads through the Cranbrook Community Forest for the purposes of providing access to development lands in the Cranbrook East subarea is not supported'. Both groups asked for its reinstatement.
• Sharon Cross in her presentation stated:

The Cranbrook Community Forest is a sensitive issue. The Mayor himself stated in the Townsman newspaper (Nov. 16/09) following the defeat of the referendum on the East Hill that “We will not be proceeding with the inclusion of the East Hill lands as part of our community. It’s over.” This position is supported by conclusions within the City’s recently released Growth Management Study, which makes the following statement in Volume 1 page 22 '. . . it is surmised that the current City boundary has the capacity to house a population of approximately 36,000 or approximately double the current population. At an average annual growth rate of 1.2%, it would take 57 years for the City to reach a population of 36,000. The only need identified was for commercial lands, which of necessity would be along major traffic corridors, none of which exist through the East Hill'.

• Ross Priest recommended for RDEK directors and staff that wording within the Rockyview Plan which states, ‘development is not generally be supported’ be reversed. Priest stated, “The suggestion is here that development is not generally supported. Well, it's generally not supported unless there is some compelling reason to go the other way. I would suggest that wording be reversed that development be supported because directors who want development to happen will then go against the consistent wording that’s in this plan”

On several occasions Mr Gay had to ask Mr Priest to adhere to comment on the Rockyview OCP and not comment on other presentations. One of Mr Priest’s comments was in reference to the presentation made by Sharon Cross. He did say, ”Although I don’t intend to speak for Mayor or Council,” but he went on to say that he knew why the City wanted the clause about ‘no roads through the Community Forest’ removed. He said one reason was that it was, “not what the Provincial Government originally envisioned”. Unfortunately there were times when it was not easy to clearly understand Mr.Priest. He went on to say in a second attempt at speaking, ”When the Mayor said it was over, he’s referring to the results of the East Hill Boundary. Nobody is projecting a hundred years.” Again Mr. Priest was reminded to respect the hearing protocol and just address the Rockyview OCP. 

The remainder of the hearing concerned the Wycliffe Area.

The Economics of Private Land Conservation

On Wednesday, Oct 27, the East Kootenay Conservation Program is holding a workshop.  The theme of the workshop is The Economics of Private Land Conservation.  Recently I had the opportunity to talk to Wayne Stetski, Manager of the EKCP about the event.  According to Wayne, from a biological perspective we live in a very unique place in the world where both ungulates and large carnivores still co-exist. This is due to the combination of extensive crown and private lands.The EKCP role is to co-ordinate and facilitate private land conservation including ranch land and farmland.  Wayne is hoping that the workshop will bring new knowledge to the East Kootenays regarding how people can find a way to use conservation to benefit private land owners.  Some of the topics discussed will be carbon credit trading, federal tax incentives, and providing information on the marketing of ecological goods and services. To learn more about the EKCP go to their web site here http://www.ekcp.ca/

Post Notes Council Meeting of Monday October 25th

There were two delegations:

• Gerry Sobie and Jenny Humphrey appeared as a delegation to report on Cranbrook’s first ever Trash to Treasure Event. This event was organised by a committee within Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook. Trash 2 Treasure day is a small but progressive idea that is good. It provides camaraderie amongst neighbours. It provides useful items to those who may not otherwise choose or be able to purchase them. It provides fun items for the creative amongst us and it keeps items out of the landfill. This initiative is one small part of becoming a sustainable community.

The lack of feedback from all but one councillor was regrettable. We were left with the impression that council was uninspired by our presentation and the whole concept of Trash2Treasure.

However Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook see the concept of Trash 2 Treasure Day as one more necessary step in helping our community become more sustainable. We are willing to assist in making that happen in whatever small ways we can. In fact it is imperative that we do. We are enthusiastic and looking forward to organizing another T2T day in the spring during Pitch In Week.

• Sergeant Laurie Jalbert gave the RCMP report. She went over the new drinking and driving regulations. Sgt Jalbert also summarised some of the Community statistics for the last quarter and spoke of staffing issues.

Under the new laws, drivers caught with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher or those who refuse to give a breath sample will;
Get a three-month driving ban.
Get a $500 administrative penalty, and a $250 driver's licence reinstatement fee.
Have their vehicle impounded for 30 days.
Have to pay for the towing and impoundment costs
Have to pay for the mandatory use of an ignition interlock device for one year.
Face possible criminal charges.

Full regulations at:
http://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/tickets/driver-prohibitions/immediate

Media reports:
http://www.nationalpost.com/news/canada/introduces+tough+drunk+driving/3551044/story.html
and
http://www.theprovince.com/news/introduces+toughest+drunk+driving+laws+country+honour+Alexa+Middelaer/3547769/story.html


More notes on this meeting  at a later date.

Advance Notes for the City Council Meeting of October 25

It's Monday which means the City Council Meeting starts at 6pm.

There will be several presentations made to council including one by the RCMP and one by Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook regarding the success of Trash to Treasure.

The City received a lot of correspondence including letters from the Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Premier, Gordon Campbell.

Of particular interest was a letter from of the Columbia Institute regarding a Free Trade agreement being signed with the European Union.  This would mean that local municipalities would not be able to give priority in tenders to Canadian companies.  This would be distressing considering that many of these companies could be local providing and securing employment opportunities for local people.  I will be interested to hear if this letter generates any discussion among the mayor and council.
The letter can be read at:
http://cranbrook.ihostez.com/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=887

As well, two bylaws are being given final reading.
There has been concern expressed over the bylaw which would extend the PLA for up to 8 years on large developments. Most other communities only allow a PLA for 6 months. The city feels that we must be creative given the economic downturn.  Let's see what happens tonight.

The agenda for tonight's meeting can be found at the City of Cranbrook website
http://www.cranbrook.ca/

The Day After T2T

Thank you to all those who participated in our first ever Trash to Treasure Day.  The number of participants was small but the success was great. We know that from the comments we have received - comments such as " I was so pleased to get rid of that stuff", 'Oh, I can really use that', "I know someone who would love that", "Please take it, I want you to have it", "It was so easy and fun to watch it disappear".   Yours truly aquired a set of beautiful glasses but left others for some lucky person to find.  The comment left on a previous post says it all.

Please let us know your thoughts in the COMMENTS.

We look forward to another Trash2Treasure in the Spring.

TV just left to a happy customer!



All gone - a successful T2T



Happy Treaure Hunters


A fridge size printable Recycle Guide is available on Friday's post.

Zero Waste

On this last day of Waste Reduction Week lets think about what is the ultimate goal.  The concept of Zero Waste seems like an impossible goal but it is a philosophy that can not only help our environment but also build a sustainable economy. 

The idea is to reduce consumption as much as possible by using design-for-environment in all products and their packaging, and to make all products and packaging recyclable.
Achieving Zero Waste depends on designing products and industrial processes so that their components can be dismantled, repaired and/or recycled.
Zero Waste means linking communities, businesses and industries so that one's waste becomes another’s feedstock. It means preventing pollution at its source. It means new local jobs in communities throughout British Columbia.
Many communities in British Columbia are commiting to the concept of Zero Waste including;
 •Metro Vancouver

•Central Kootenay Regional District
◦City of Nelson
•Central Okanagan Regional District
◦City of Kelowna
◦Lake Country
•Cowichan Valley Regional District
•Regional District Kootenay Boundary
◦City of Trail
◦City of Grand Forks
◦Village of Fruitvale
◦City of Rossland
•Regional District of Nanaimo
•Sunshine Coast Regional District

The Town of Smithers is developing a zero waste action plan.  Maybe its time for Cranbrook to start thinking about a similar effort. To read more about the concept of Zero Waste go here http://rcbc.bc.ca/education/zero-waste

Today is Trash to Treasure

Its not too late to participate in Trash to Treasure.  If you have gently used household items such as dishes, books, furtniture, CDs, tools, sporting goods etc that you no longer require why don't you put it out on your lawn near the curb. Other people can come by take a look and take it if they like it.  Its like a free garage sale.  Get rid of the clutter by participating in Trash to Treasure.

No Worries!

Yes, you are having trouble reading the Recycle Guide!  Just click on full screen to read and or print The Recycle Guide and the Trash2Treasure sign if you need to.

Clean Bins

As we come to the end of our focus on waste reduction in this Waste Reduction Week, we hope the effort continues to be ongoing.  Earlier this year, I watched a movie called The Clean Bin Project.  This excellent little movie, in my opinion, rivals any Michael Moore documentary!  The Vancouver couple whose brain child this was, are now back in western Canada with more showings of their movie......
http://www.cleanbinmovie.com/

If you have a chance to see it I highly recommend it.  The movie with a message was highly entertaining, amusing and 'real'. This couple deserves a win at one of the upcoming festivals.

Printable Recycle Guide for Cranbrook October 2010

Recycle Guide 5

What's Happening

Saturday October 23rd TRASH 2 TREASURE DAY
Place unwanted, gently used items curbside with a Trash 2 Treasure (see right) or FREE sign.  800:a.m. clean-up by 4:00p.m.  Take left over items to a charity of your choice or save for the next Trash to Treasure Day hopefully Earth Day week 2011.  Go out, visit with the neighbours and see what tresures you can find.


BC Honey Producers' Conference
Saturday October 23rd
There may still be room for you at the Educational Day (Saturday) with 6 different highly qualified speakers from around the Province and Canada.  Even if you don't keep bees this information is valuable to us all.  The free Forum on Wednesday was fabulous - there are lots of things we all can do to help sustain our essential bee populations.  This one day is $99.00 Heritage Inn start 8:30a.m.  Drop into the Conference on Friday and ask if interested.
Visit the vendors tables Friday and Saturday.

Honey bees love Mountain Bluet
Centaurea montana

Friday October 22nd
Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Fort Steele
250-417-6000

Friday October 22nd 3:00pm - 8:00p.m.
Saturday October 23rd 9:00am - 4:00p.m.
Artisan Market Bootleg Gap Golf Course

Saturday October 23rd
A Beethoven Gala. Symphony of the Kootenays
with Sarah Aleem 7:30 p.m. Key City Theatre

Saturday October 23rd deadline for entries into Key City Gallery Open Exhibition
manager@keycitytheatre.com or 250-426-7006

Saturday October 23rd
Hallowe'en Spooktacular
Fort Steele starting 3:00pm.  Tickets available in advance at Safeway, Save on Food Gas Bar, Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce

Saturday October 23rd
Hallowe'en on the Green
Mission Hills Golf Course
250-489-3006

Sunday October 24th and all week
Ghost Walks at Fort Steele
7:00pm
250-417-6000

Monday October 25th Cranbrook Council Meeting
Council Chambers, City Hall
6:00pm

Monday October 25th
Travelogue at COR Lecture Theatre
Friends of the Library
7:00pm London and Cambridge with Gerry Warner

Wednesday October 27th
Movie THIRST
COR Lecture Theatre
7:00p.m.
Discussion after.

Wednesday October 27th
Economics of Private Land Conservation COR
still just time to register
250-489-8242

Drying Your Ziplocs

Do you drape them over the taps, mugs, peg to the washing line or, horrors, not reuse them?
A few years ago a dear friend gave me this plastic bag dryer and I have used it every day since.  What a great gift!  You would not have to be a sophisticated craftsperson to make a simpler version - it certainly wouldn't have to be as pretty as this one.  Insert a few different length dowels into a piece of wood and there you go!  This great little gift has seen many a plastic bag get hung up multiple times.  Although we call this Waste Reduction Week, our waste reduction focus needs to be a year round habit.

Recycling in Cranbrook - Fieldtrip

Leaning the basics of recycling

Recently, students from Gordon Terrace Elementary School, in Mr. Wilson's and Mrs. Bedell's Grade 3 classes took part in a tour of the Transfer Station, the Recycling Centre and visited the Regional Landfill near Fort Steele. What a great way for students to learn about the 3 R's (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle) and to think about what they throw away and where it ends up. Lets all start to recycle more and make decisions which produce less waste. Here are some pictures of their day.
Thanks to Stewart Wilson for the pictures.



Listening intently at the Transfer Station



Loree Duzek, Education Officer for the Regional District explaining what happens to the plastic bottles

Crushed cans waiting to be shipped to be recycled

Compressed cardboard ready for shipment

Plight of the Honey Bee

Wednesday, October 20 at the College of the Rockies Lecture Theatre, Room 250 between 7pm - 9:30pm there will be a free forum on the Plight of the Honey Bee.  As many people have heard there has been a serious collapse in honey bee colonies across North America. This is a serious concern since honey bees help pollinate many crops. The discussion will help raise public awareness of this extremely important issue, as well as explain some of the challenges and diseases facing honey bee survival. The forum is part of the BC Honey Producers Association Annual General Meeting which begins in Cranbrook on Oct 21 and runs through Oct 23 at the Heritage Inn.  If your interested you can still register on-line at http://www.bcbeekeepers.ca/

Waste Reduction Week October 18-24

Waste Reduction Week begins today.  While many of us now recycle we could all do more.  Curbside recycling programs have been very successful but Canadians still only  divert 25% from landfills.  Canadians continue to be one of the most wasteful people on the planet.  Only Australia, Norway, and the US produce more garbage than us.  30 years ago Canadians produced much less waste than we do now.  While we recycle more than we used to we have also steadily increased the amount of garbage that we produce.   This week, let's think about ways we can reduce our garbage output.  How can we recycle more and make smarter consumer choices which produce less waste.
On Saturday as part of  Waste Reduction Week, Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook
are sponsoring Trash to Treasure.  Here's how it works. Place gently used household items on your front lawn near the curb on Saturday morning. Then people can come by and if they like something they can take it.  Its like a free garage sale.  Its a great and easy way to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
If you want to find out more about Waste Reduction Week go here http://www.wrwcanada.com/g

Around Town and Looking Good

Cranbrook's New Sanidump behind the Chamber of Commerce

Another Favorite Place

If you are willing to venture a little farther afield this weekend to take advantage of this great fall weather, Silver Springs is a beautiful place to go.  Many people enjoy this spot but unfortunately some do not yet have enough respect to take out what they take in.  If you do go it is a great idea to pack a pair of gloves and a few garbage bags with you just in case some less respectful humans have been in there before you.  It doesn't take much effort to pick up some of the party debris.  You will feel better for doing it and hopefully the culprits will get the message next time they visit and see the place clean.  Underwear (yes, really), broken glass and left over packaged food is not pleasant but can if left, destroy the ambience as well as cause danger to wildlife. 
For directions, look in Janice Strong's book 'Mountain Footsteps'

Silver Springs Overlook

Cranbrook Community Forest

 A lot of people know about the main portion of the Cranbrook Community Forest that extends above Cranbrook but many people don't know about the portion of the CCF on the north side of the highway just past the SPCA. Its a beautiful area to hike in with some stunning views.  Why not head out today and enjoy this part of our forest.

Water for Thought

The comment oft heard from some people in Cranbrook of ‘We’ll never run out of water’ should give us pause for thought. The phrase ‘Water, Water everywhere but not a drop to drink.’ comes to mind and is probably more akin to what we should be concerned about, too much or too little. Just ask the population in parts of Pakistan this past summer or Walkerton a few years ago or prairie farmers in years of drought. The water may be there but that does not mean it is accessible or useable.

At one time drinking water did not require treatment but now it needs to be filtered and made safe with the use of chemicals. At one time a trip to the well was the norm and still is in parts of the world. Some Cranbrook residents, we should remember are still dependent on wells. Most of us within the city however, expect safe water to be piped right into our homes. There is a cost to harnessing, treating and delivering this water and in this time of climate change how can we be sure the water will always be in the right place for us to harness? The water cycle will continue to happen but patterns of precipitation have changed and are continuing to change at an alarming rate.

Six of the choices in the Cranbrook Connected (see post for October 8th) questionnaire concern water.

Storm Water Management

Drinking Water Quality and Quantity

Stream Health

Climate Change

Parks, Natural Areas and Wildlife

Sewage Management ……and remember what goes around comes around!



We are asked to choose ten items of interest from a list of 34.


No water. No life. Water sustains life. When viewed this way all other topics on this survey become dependent on the above six!

For more information and input to Cranbrook's Integrated Sustainability Plan or Cranbrook Connected visit
http://www.cranbrookconnected.ca/
Use this chance to say what you feel about Cranbrook's sustainable future.

Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook are showing the movie 'Thirst' on October 27th at the College of the College lecture theatre at 7:OOpm   This is a public showing.  Join us there.

For more on Blog Action Day and the topic of WATER go to
http://blogactionday.change.org/

Today is Blog Action Day: Topic WATER

Water is essential for all life

We certainly have experienced a what seems like wetter than normal summer this year in our corner of BC and the water has arrived in many of the worst places such as residents' basements and garages.  However look around and you will notice the level of local ponds and sloughs is no higher than usual - in fact it is a lot lower than a few years ago. 

Community Forest - almost dry slough

BC's water is under pressure from increasing demands while global warming means that its supply will be less certain. We must act now to protect our rivers, streams and groundwater, and to balance competing demands for this precious and limited resource.

Right now, the BC government is considering how to modernize our Water Act. Click here to let them know what's needed to manage our water in a smarter way. Your voice will count! 

What’s Happening

East Kootenay Outdoor Club Hike Saturday October 16 - Along the Bull River: This new hike goes along the west side of the Bull River just above the dam. 1/1/1 Call Lorne 426-8864

Free Public Forum
The Plight of the Honey Bee
College of the Rockies Lecture Theatre
Wednesday October 20th
7:00 - 9:30p.m.


Artrageous Gallery

Current Exhibit

Creatures of the Kootenays

Sept 28th - Oct 23rd

32A - 11 Ave S (Across from RCMP) Cbk

Tues-Fri 11-5 Sat 11-3

Info: 250-426-4223 info@theartscouncil.ca



Prepare for Cranbrook’s first Trash to Treasure event October 23rd. Use this weekend to sort out some closets, attics or garages!

SmartGrowth - Its Your Money

One of the recommendations forwarded in a new report issued by QUEST (Quality Urban Energy Systems of Tomorrow), a coalition of government and industry players, is to promote SmartGrowth policies. The use of SmartGrowth principles will greatly reduce greenhouse emissions and energy consumption. The byproduct of this would be job creation and cost savings to local municipalities. Municipalities have the ability to lead this movement without great influxes of monies or influence from the provincial or federal governments. How we build our communities and how we commute will have a great influence on our economy and environment.  If you want to read more then go to this study please go to http://www.questcanada.org/

Lets begin this sort of discussion here in Cranbrook. We will soon have an opportunity to speak out on these issues by participating in the Integrated Sustainability Plan which has been renamed Cranbrook Connected. Cranbrook Connected will be wanting to listen to your ideas about sustainability. Its a great opportunity to create a new vision for Cranbrook. Bring your ideas and thoughts about Cranbrook and lets make it a better place to live than it is already.

More Notes from the Council Meeting of October 4th

• Council approved the proposal from Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook, Trash to Treasure Day, October 23rd, as part of Waste Reduction Week with sponsorship in kind

•  Deer Survey Results are in and the full report can be read at:

http://www.cranbrook.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=349:urban-deer-resident-survey-results-released-monday&catid=58:2010-news&Itemid=547

•  ICSP,  Integrated Community Sustainability Plan otherwise known as Cranbrook Connected or Cranbrook’s Integrated Sustainability Plan

Here is an opportunity for you, as a Cranbrook resident, to have input. This plan along with The Growth Management Strategy could become a very important document for Cranbrook.

Chris Ayling, Committee Chair introduced the committee consisting of himself, Dave Butler, Dave Hall, Gord Johnson, Linda Holmes, Mike Pearson and Laurie Cordell, a Sustainability Coordinator, hired part time from The Fraser Basin Council. All Committee members with the exception of Laurie Cordell are from other Committees previously appointed by Council.

Cranbrook was obligated to undertake an Intergrated Sustainability Plan as part of the conditions for receiving the Gas Tax Initiative Funding. The committee has renamed The Integrated Sustainability Plan Project Cranbrook Connected in an effort to make communication easier and also to represent what the committee will attempt to do – connect as many different citizens and groups as possible in the process of forming some long range goals for Cranbrook. The purpose of this committee is to examine planning and policy issues facing the city from a sustainability perspective. Environmental, Economic, Social and Economic aspects of planning issues will be examined. Chris spoke of how phase one of five phases is now complete and it was obvious from the presentation that the committee has worked hard to set in place a thorough process, which will see the work completed by June 2011. The committee will now embark on the consultation process, which will involve talking directly to different Cranbrook residents and organisations. It is anticipated The Cranbrook Connected website will be up and running the week of October 12th. We urge any members of the public who have opinions about the future sustainable direction of Cranbrook to contact this committee or Laurie Cordell and let them know about those sustainability issues.

A more detailed description of The Integrated Sustainability Planning Initiative can be found at:
http://www.cd.gov.bc.ca/lgd/intergov_relations/library/ICSP_Backgrounder.pdf
This is a good background document to read.

Don’t waste this chance for your say.

And for your information from the Fraser Basin Council Contact Sheet:

Laurie Cordell, MCIP

Kootenay Office: Cranbrook

T: 250 489-4860

E: lcordell@fraserbasin.bc.ca

Laurie Cordell brings to the Smart Planning team 10 years of planning experience at the federal, regional district and municipal levels. With a strong interest in sustainability, Laurie has extensive experience related to planning processes, public consultation, facilitation and mediation. She has conducted many local workshops and enjoys working with people. Laurie appreciates the communities and natural beauty of the Kootenays where she lives in an off-grid, solar house.

Around Town and Looking Good

Happy Thanksgiving



Columbia Valley Nursery



Favorite Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Cut Spaghetti Squash in half

Microwave for 15 minutes

Cook some bacon while the squash is cooking

Scoop out seeds from squash

Fluff up squash

Mix with drained crumbled bacon, some Parmesan Cheese and a little butter

Broil a few minutes

Were you part of the Global Work Party?

Today  October 10th, 2010, people in 185 countries joined together to host more than 6227 events as part of 350.org's Global Work Party.
The event seeks to unite people around the world in addressing the climate crisis - with a focus on the number 350 - the safe upper limit of parts per million of CO2 in our atmosphere.

Congratulations to all those who were out in their gardens today harvesting their produce, to those who rode their bicycles or walked to their destinations or to anyone who contributed in some small way by not adding more carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.  To read about some of the many projects that went on today go to:
http://www.350.org/

Three Easy Fall Walks Close to Cranbrook

If you are not out hiking elsewhere this Thanksgiving weekend and would like a short easy walk, the fall colours are spectacular in any of these locations.

Community Forest

South Hill

Jim Smith Lake

TEDxNextGenerationAsheville - Birke Baehr - "What's Wrong With Our Food ...

Being Thankful for Children Who Care and the Adults Who Help Them

What a burden we have left with the next generation.  We can be thankful there are children like Birke and adults who care enough to help them learn how to lessen the load.
For a look at what some of our local students and teachers are doing go to:
http://www.hancockwildlife.org/forum/viewtopic.php?showtopic=106914

Trash 2 Treasure - October 23

What is Trash 2 Treasure you may ask?  Its a fun and practical way to reduce, reuse and recycle and we hope you will all participate. While this is the first time Cranbrook will participate in this project, it has been successfully done in cities all across North America. I was in Winnipeg this spring and they held a Trash 2 Treasure event over the weekend. It was incredibly successful. My friend was able to clear out a lot of stuff from her basement and in return she picked up a cool light fixture.

Do you have any household items that you don't use but are still in good condition?

For example:

•   books, CDs and DVDs
•   furniture and small appliances
•   sports equipment and toys
•   tools
•   yard and gardening equipment (e.g., lawn mowers, snow throwers, rakes, shovels)
•   kitchen gadgets, dishes, cutlery, pots and pans
•   unwanted gifts
•   construction material including drywall and hardware (e.g., nails, bolts and screws)
•   electronics
•   clothing
•   paint.

Here's how it works.

■ GATHER unwanted household items

■ PLACE them on display at your curb

■ CREATE an eye-catching T2T sign

■ MEET neighbours who stop by

■ GIVE it all away! 
 
Make sure you follow Trash 2 Treasure etiquette

•   Take only the items at the curb marked "FREE".

•   Respect other people's property – don't walk or drive on people's lawns or gardens.

•   Give away items should still be in good condition.

•   Don't discard any items on another person’s lawn.

•   Obey the traffic laws at all times (e.g., don't block traffic, park illegally or block people's driveways with your vehicle) and watch out for children.

Its a great way to keep things out of the landfill. Share the news with your friends.
Trash to Treasure Saturday, Oct 23. 8a.m to 4:00p.m

What's Happening

East Kootenay Outdoor Club Sunday October 10th - Moes Canyon: Gerry Warner's famous autumn hike known for radiant fall (especially on old growth larch) colours and decadent deserts at Kelseys after the hike. 1/1/1 Call Gerry 489-3271



Monday October 11th Golden Larches Hike in the Kimberley Nature Park with Struan 3 or 5 hour hike option.250 427 5048


Sunday October 10th Thanksgiving at Fort Steele

Harvesting potatoes

Taste of Thanksgiving at Lambi House

Wagon rides

Entertainment

Traditional dinner served at the International Hotel

Saturday October 9th and Sunday October 10th

Adults $19.95 Children 6 – 12 years $11.95 Children under 5 pay their age

Reservations 250-420-7158


The Economics of Private Land Conservation 
with Wayne Stetski
Dr. Laura Cooper Dean COTR
Kathryn Teneese Chief Negotiator Ktunaxa Nation
Peter Boxall  University of Alberta
Blair Hammond Canadian Wildlife Service
Briony Penn  Manage, Living Carbon Investments, Land Trust Alliance
Sylvia von Schuckmann Ministry of Agriculture, Agriculture specialist
Register  now  for this workshop 250-489-8242  mailto:cranbrookCE@cotr.bc.ca

Pat Casey Memorial Garden Dedication

It was a beautiful fall afternoon October 5th for the Dedication of the Pat Casey Memorial Garden, beside City Hall. A good crowd came out to view the garden in which many of the perennials are still blooming and also to hear about Pat's long-time dedication to this community.




Richelle and Carl Casey, Chris Johns speaks about Pat and her service to teaching and the community and Kathy Simon who spoke on behalf of Toastmasters.  Mayor Manjak is in the background.

Carl Casey and  Simone Geary.  Simone, City horticulturist/arborist designed and planted the garden.

Thirst - October 27

Thirst is CLC's selection for their second movie night on October 27, 7PM at the College of the Rockies Lecture Theatre. Coffee to follow. A great time to meet up and talk.

This 62 minute documentary is a piercing look at the global corporate drive to control and profit from our water -- from bottles to tap.

Is water part of a shared "commons", a human right for all people? Or is it a commodity to be bought, sold, and traded in a global marketplace? THIRST tells the stories of communities in Bolivia, India, and the United States that are asking these fundamental questions, as water becomes the most valuable global resource of the 21st Century.

A character-driven documentary with no narration, THIRST reveals how the debate over water rights between communities and corporations can serve as a catalyst for explosive and steadfast resistance to globalization.

Of particular interest to Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook supporters is the inside look at the citizens’ coalition that formed in Stockton California to fight the privatization of their water system in 2003. See the film .. and find out what has happened since after the film!

Pat Casey Memorial Garden

The dedication for Pat Casey's Memorial Garden is Tuesday, October 5^th at 4:30 at the Garden/Trees for Life site next to City Hall.

Really??!!

When Denise Palleson stated at the city council meeting of Oct 4 that she thinks it's nice that the city now has professionals to get information from and that the city could go to CABBDA (Cranbrook and Area Business Builders and Developers Association)  since "they are the ones we need the help from” , my alarm bells went off.  When should the city take advice from what is essentially a lobby group for the development community? Consult with CABBDA definitely, but the city needs to make the right decisions for the taxpayers of Cranbrook and those decisions might not always be in the best interests of developers.  If we don't have the expertise at city hall then its time to hire someone who does.

Notes from the Council Meeting of Monday October 4th

One standout issue was the first, second, and third readings given to two bylaws involving development. These bylaws can be read in full at:

http://cranbrook.ihostez.com/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=1170
Erosion and Sediment Control
http://cranbrook.ihostez.com/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=1173 
Subdivision and Development Servicing

Council 5 to 1, voted to refer these new bylaws for input to a new group of people known as CABBDA.

CABBDA Cranbrook and Area, Business and Developers Association is a newly formed group who introduced themselves to Council last evening. It was unclear if the group is a non-profit, for profit, professional or lobby organisation. The formal structure of the group was not presented but in Dennis Hockley’s presentation he made note of how the group wants to do the best for Cranbrook, as we all do. He went on to say that the group has within it, a lot of expertise, which they wish to share with the RDEK and Council. They want to promote the city and work with the city to help it to prosper and grow. Hockley felt the group had the tools and expertise to work with the city. He commented that they have talked to different groups within the city in order to work together. He did not say which groups they have consulted with. Dave Kaiser spoke of planned, quality, sustainable development. These admirable goals certainly fit within the goals of many other studies, ongoing projects and general aspirations of residents. Mr. Hockley did mention they have sought the advice of FABDA (Fernie Area Builders Association.) This group was formed to provide a vehicle for the promotion of industry interests and to assist members in their business.


Although City Administrator Pearce made it clear anyone can comment on these bylaws, it was very unclear as to why the bylaws would be brought directly to the attention of one self-interest group and why they alone would be invited to comment. Bylaws such as these affect all residents of Cranbrook – just ask a few of this year’s flood victims or those residents still without city services or the various groups that work to protect our waterways.


Should the invitation for comment not be a general one and be brought to general attention, possibly in the City’s ‘Our City Working for You’ space?

Advance Notes for the Council Meeting of October 4th

Complete Agenda and Council Package can be found at the City website.  Council Meeting to begin at 6:00pm Council Chambers - open to public.

Delegations:

· Tracey Amy, George Watson, Colin Campbell re Proposal Requesting Support of the Committee’s Bid to Host the 2011 Canada Cup

· Chris Ayling, Cranbrook Connected re Update on ICSP (Integrated Community Sustainability Planning) process per terms of reference

· Brian Sims, CABDA, (Cranbrook and Area Business, Builders and Developers Association) re Introducing CABDA Vision and Mission Statements


Administration Update

· False Phone Solicitations in Cranbrook

· Urban Deer – Resident Survey Results

· Water Conservation Education Program Report by Shirley West

· Asia Twinning Initiative

· Engineering – capital Roads Program update. What has been done and what is still to be completed

· Firehall Construction Update

· BC Hydro Funding program – available to municipalities wanting to replace overhead distribution lines with underground power lines

· Programming, Senior Fitness Park

· Memorial Arena, updated schedule

· RecPlex updates

· Library – October Activities

· Public Works – Sani Dump, Potable Water Leak Detection


Correspondence

Correspondence from Gerry Sobie Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook – proposal for Trash to Treasure Day October 23rd

Liquor Control and Licensing – proposed establishment ‘Black Night’ Golf Course Wildstone

ACAP Contribution Agreement – Paving Rehabilitation

Bylaws

Bylaw 3692 City of Cranbrook Erosion and Sediment Control

Bylaw 3708 City of Cranbrook Loan Authorisation for Fibre Optic Broadband Infrastructure Development (adopt)

Bylaw 3711 City of Cranbrook Annual Taxation Exemption

Bylaw 3712 City of Cranbrook Subdivision and Development Servicing Amendment

CLC Society - Upcoming Events

The Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook have several exciting upcoming events so put them on your Calendar.

On Oct 27, 7pm at the College of the Rockies we will be holding another of our Movie Nights.  The movie selection committee is still deciding what we'll watch but whatever it is I'm sure it will be a thought provoking evening that will generate a lot of discussion.  Coffee to follow the movie.

On Nov 17 at the College of the Rockies , 7 pm Jeremy Sturgess will be speaking.  Jeremy Sturgess is a world reknowned, award winning architect from Calgary. He is known for the redevelopment of the old General Hospital site, designing the Calgary Water Works Building, and has recently had a book called 'Full Spectrum', celebrating his 30 year career, published.  His work specializes in projects that create community. We are very fortunate to have someone of Jeremys calibre come to Cranbrook and speak to us on building and sustainability.

Cranbrook

Cranbrook from the Community Forest

Bio-Energy Projects - An Innovative Idea

A workshop is being held in Cranbrook on Monday, Oct 4 on the feasibility of fueling heating systems using wood of marginal commercial value.  Interface fire prescriptions and ongoing eco-restoration projects produce a lot of wood which is not commercially viable. The use of this "scrap" wood to heat buildings is an idea gaining in popularity.  It would allow us to be less dependent on foreign markets and provide a real opportunity to create industry here in the East Kootenays. Both Revelstoke and Montana have actively become involved in bio fuel projects.  Montana is heating many schools with bio fuel producing significant savings.
The Columbia Basin Trust, BC Bioenergy Network, SCR Management, RW Gray Consulting and Rocky Mountain Trench Ecosystem Restoration Program are sponsoring the event which costs $30.00. Call Dan Murphy  250-421-9329 to register.
For more information about Bio Energy go here http://www.bcbioenergy.com/

Greys Pay Taxes Too

Friday October 1st, today,  is International Day of Older Persons.

http://www.un.org/ageing/whatsnew%20PDF/new%20flyer%20friday%201st%20October%202010.pdf


We often read that the senior generation of Canadians will become a drain on the Health Care System. The increasing demographic of seniors in Cranbrook was even mentioned at a recent Council Meeting with reference to The Growth Management Study. From the general comments contained within the Administration Update of September 13th comes, "A rapidly aging population raises numerous challenges from the perspective of providing the right mix of services, the costs of services and tax base considerations.  There is an inevitable end to this aging trend unless new employment opportunities are encouraged to attract and retain young families."

Moses Znaimer, states in a recent article that “In the year 2009 Canadians 45 years and older numbered approximately 14 million or about 425 of the Canadian population. These millions of Canadians made up 53% of all tax filers. What’s often overlooked in discussions of the senior burden is the fact that most retirees and pensioners continue to pay tax. And this comes after working lifetimes already spent investing a considerable portion of their own earnings into RRSPs and supplemental pension plans. By the year 2031 it’s projected that there will be about 19 million Canadians aged 45 and older or 49% of the total projected population of 39 million. By extrapolation this most senior demographic will comprise 63% of all Canadian tax filers.” He goes on to say that unless seniors receive tax refunds they will be paying the lion’s share of government expenditures in 2031.

Znaimer furthers his exploration of society’s dependency on grey power by thwarting some of the misconceptions about seniors consuming a disproportional amount of health care. “While it is true that health care cost is heavier for seniors it appears to be far smaller than predictions would have us believe.” He goes on to quote statistics for doctor visits and these back up his statements. An interesting statistic quoted is that where approximately 8% of Canadians between the ages of 25 and 44 will see a health care professional about mental health issues only 2.4% of people aged 65 years and older will.

In Znaimers closing statement he says “So spread the word when it comes to health and wellness, we’re not just part of the problem, we’re actually part of the solution. We might even be worth more to the world alive than dead.”

This most interesting article can be read in full at:

http://www.50plus.com/Health/BrowseAllArticles/index.cfm?documentID=23519