Saturday, June 30, 2012

Canada Day Celebration

Blast From the Past - Cranbrook's Floral Emblem

Cranbrook Herald May 1926

Friday, June 29, 2012

Teck's Trans Canada Trail, Canada Day, Good News Announcement

On June 28th, Teck announced a $1 million investment to support the completion of a section of the Trans Canada Trail connecting communities in the Kootenays. This a great announcement for the Trans Canada Trail. Click on image to enlarge.

Can a Symphony Survive the Digital Age?

Perceptions by Gerry Warner

It was a night to remember.

For the first time in a long time the rains held off, the sky cleared and there was cottonwood fluff floating in the air as more than 500 Cranbrook area folks gathered June 22 at the St. Eugene Mission Resort for the final season performance of the Symphony of the Kootenays.

It was called “Music in the Mountains” and there couldn’t have been a better setting with snow-streaked Mt. Fisher rearing up like a giant pyramid overlooking the musicians and the jagged spires of the Steeples and other Rocky Mountain peaks serving as a dramatic background for the show.

Rain had fallen earlier in the day and there was some concern in the air that the performance would have to be moved indoors, which just wouldn’t have been the same. But with the sky clearing and the sun lighting up the historic steeple of St. Eugene Church the decision was made at 6:30 p.m. to go ahead outdoors and the orchestra assembled in front of the ancient residential school, once a repository of painful memories for the Ktunaxa people but now a symbol of restored pride.

And as the memorable evening of music unfolded the sense of pride and satisfaction only grew greater as the orchestra appropriately broke into its opening piece, John Burge’s “Rocky Mountain Overture.”

For this participant, the highlight of the evening was Ktunaxa member Joe Pierre’s rendition of one of the many Ktunaxa myths and legends with the orchestra accompanying him in the background and for all intents and purposes sounding like the wily pack of coyotes that Joe was spinning a tale about. Where else but St. Eugene could you have an experience like this complete with a cacophony of sounds from a professional orchestra?

At the conclusion of the concert, Conductor Bruce Dunn praised the musicians and thanked the audience profusely and expressed his fervent hope that the amazing St. Eugene concert could become an annual event. His comment drew a large round of applause from the highly appreciative audience and there was little surprise about that.

But can this really happen?

As most of you know, the Symphony of the Kootenays, an institution in this neck of the woods for almost 30 years, is on life support. Indeed, “Music in the Mountains” almost didn’t happen as the Symphony of the Kootenays Society almost dissolved a few weeks prior to the show with a new board elected at an emergency meeting June 6. Even this wasn’t enough and it took an eleventh hour grant from the Vancouver Foundation to provide the money necessary for the season’s last performance.

I don’t know the details, but I’m told some real machinations occurred before the Vancouver Foundation grant was secured. Phew!

Whatever the case, the question now is what’s the future for the Symphony of the Kootenays? Does the Symphony of the Kootenays even have a future?

Not if the concert audiences in Cranbrook stay around the 250 level, says photographer and music aficionado Rod Wilson, who knows much more about these matters than yours truly. A typical Symphony of the Kootenays concert costs more than $20,000 to put on because the orchestra draws from a pool of musicians from all over the east and west Kootenays and southern Alberta which makes travel and rehearsal costs exorbitantly high. Wilson also makes the point that audiences have lost interest in listening to live music thanks to technological innovations like Itunes, Ipods, cheap CD’s and the like. Just another tradeoff as the Digital Age takes over society.

Personally, I think Wilson’s points have merit, but I’m not quite ready to give up. As proof , I point out the 3,500 tickets sold for the Bob Dylan concert here demonstrates that interest in live music is hardly dead. And I would also point to the success of the Music in the Mountains Concert.

Something happened that evening and it was magical. People love live music and technology will never destroy it.

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Oh Thou Wicked Wicked Dandelion

Dandelions in all their glory.

This article is written in response to Councillor Scott's article titled 'In favour of an ounce of prevention' which appeared in the Townsman on Thursday June 21st.

It saddens me to read an article such as was published in last week’s Townsman, about the much, maligned Dandelion. Councillor Scott took up almost half a page to explain her rationale for ‘an ounce of prevention’, namely an application of herbicide. The illness is a large number of Dandelions on the strip. It is true an application of selective herbicide will temporarily reduce the number of Dandelions but Scott’s rationale is seriously flawed.

Dandelions do not have the affliction. We do. The affliction – our psychologically induced abhorrence for Dandelions. If our expectation is a smooth and lush green sward along the strip, the conditions need to be appropriate for grass to grow well and the ability to maintain the grass needs to be in place.

The reason so many Dandelions inhabit this Cranbrook artery is because the conditions are perfect for Dandelions! The soil is poor, maintenance low and seeds are easily swept along by both natural and vehicle induced breezes. Unfortunately there is no real herbicide cure for the so-called Dandelion scourge that scars our strip – if you view it is a scourge. Dandelions will always come back.

Dandelions do not cause erosion as Councillor Scott implied. They are one of the few plants that can quickly colonize and stabilize poor and compacted soil. Their long taproots can reach far down to the moisture and nutrients trapped deep in the soil. The wide flat leaves funnel moisture to where it is needed. They are prolific by way of their wind spread parachute seeds.

Dent de lion – Tooth of a lion – named after the tooth-like pattern of the leaf, these clever, opportunistic plants contain very high concentrations of vitamins and essential nutrients. They are edible, make good wine and in World War Two were grown for their latex producing abilities.

Councillor Scott wrote, “People say the flowers are good for bees. However are they good for other creatures?” A closer observation of many creatures large and small would quickly demonstrate to her what a great food source dandelions are. One of the main causes for the demise of bees and many birds is our overuse of herbicides and pesticides, yet insect pollination is essential to our food supply. This is reason enough to seriously reconsider our obsession with grass areas devoid of every other plant that might be mowed.

“No rich soil for worms,” her article goes on. The cause of the poor soil is not the Dandelions. In fact, it is quite the other way around. Dandelions are one plant that helps to open up the barren and compacted ground to more moisture and oxygen, enabling worms and other plants to move in. Birds, bees and other insects are dependent on plants like this.

What do we truly want and what are we ready to pay for when it comes to landscaping on the strip? For the type of landscaping Councillor Scott would like to see, optimum conditions need to be put in place first and then there needs to be a continual intensive program of care. Formal landscaping requires very high maintenance and is costly in every sense of the word. Our climate and topography are not the same as Vancouver and the strip is not a golf course.

So what alternatives are there?

Possibilities include artificial turf, concrete and asphalt……. or we could consider clover or a more natural mix of plants including Dandelions, Lupins and other wild flowers that could still be mowed occasionally. Clover lawns maintain their green much more consistently than turf and can be mowed more often and just as easily as turf. A planting of trees, which we now have, surrounded by a more meadow-like selection of flowers and grass is more akin to this part of the world and would be lower maintenance, lower cost and would not need applications of herbicide. A cultural shift and a high dose of tolerance will be necessary for these alternatives to exist but it would seem more than prudent to start asking ourselves about the financial cost of high maintenance as well the cost to our health and food supplies by using pesticides and herbicides when they are not essential. Keep the high maintenance formal landscaping to beautiful and colourful well-contained planters and the plantings already in place.

Regardless of the choice of landscaping for our strip and parks we must take our lumps, bumps, ants and all for they are part of the natural environment on which we all depend for our lives. Let’s keep it as healthy as we are able, learn to love the Dandelions when they are in bloom, pick them, make crowns with them as children do, make soup or wine, pull some in your own lawns with the handy dandy weed pullers now available but most importantly, learn to not despise them for although they will not prickle you as Councillor Scott suggests, they will outsmart you.

Jenny Humphrey

What's Happening...

Friday, June 29

Cranbrook Legion BBQ
Celebrate Legion Week
Starts at 6pm Call 250-426-4512 for more information

Saturday, June 30

East Kootenay Outdoor Club
Hike

Kiakho Mtn . with Lorne Sinclair 426-8864

Cranbrook Farmers Market

9am to 1pm
Along 10th Avenue, Downtown

Sunday, July 1

Sunrise Rotary Canada Day Celebrations
The annual City of Cranbrook celebrations
Fireworks start at 10:45
Bring your own lawn chairs
Moir Park

The Belushis
Dee Dee McGees Pub
365 Van Hornes St S.
Show starts at 9pm

Dominion Day at Fort Steele
10am-4pm
Pie eating contests and performances at
the Wild Horse Theatre, birthday cake,
live music and BBQ.
For more information call 250-417-6000
Don't forget the summer season of theatre has begun and this cast of actors put on a great energy-packed, premier performance this week.

The young and talented cast of 'Off the Rails'

Wednesday, July 4

Speaking Volumes
You are invited to make books at a workshop
with artists Nyla Raney and Jenn Hamm
1pm-4pm at the Cranbrook and District
Arts Council
135-10th Ave S.
Cost is $40

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Physicians Warn of Pesticide Exposure

From Canada Newswire, June 19th 2012

Ontario Family Physicians Warn of Pesticide Dangers

The Ontario College of Family Physicians (OCFP) is strongly recommending the public reduce their exposure to pesticides wherever possible, based on the findings of its second comprehensive review of research on the effects of pesticides on human health. Released today, this review shows associations between pesticide exposure and various neurological and respiratory diseases, as well as reproductive problems. Covering 142 studies, the review also demonstrates that children are particularly vulnerable to pesticide exposures that occur during pregnancy.

Many of the studies reviewed by the Ontario College show positive associations between pesticide exposure, across a wide age range, and deficits in child neurodevelopment, child and adult respiratory symptoms, and adverse reproductive outcomes.

http://www.newswire.ca/en/story/995335/ontario-family-physicians-warn-of-pesticide-dangers

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Joseph Creek Erosion

These photos clearly illustrate why mowing to a creek's edge and removing deep rooted vegetation damages stability. It is is unfortunate this wonderful trail was placed so close to creek's edge. If riparian zone recommendations had been followed this may not have happened for it can be seen that where trees remain the severe erosion and slippage has not taken place.

Post Notes for the Council meeting of June 25th, 2012

Public Hearing into rezoning of the airport lands. This item was postponed as the Ktunaxa would like more discussion.

Council Inquiries
There were many inquiries from the public through different councillors.
Councillor Cross - from David Humphrey. Why has the city's report from Engineering to MOE concerning the Spray Irrigation Fields recommended against ongoing testing of cattle drinking water when the Provincial Vet recommended that testing continue and the Ministry of the Environment showed concern for the quality of the cattle water in a letter that was sent in the Fall of 2011? Referred to engineering

from four members of the public - Why was the City booth at Sam Steele Days manned by the Chamber of Commerce and not city staff? Referred to staff

Councillor Scott - Why was MLA Bennett not invited earlier to the Filipino Independence Day Celebration when an NDP MLA was present? Mayor Stetski indicated that the City had not put the invitations together, the Filipino Community had taken care of that. Mayor Stetski immediately phoned MLA Bennett's office when he discovered the oversight.
Councillor Scott also questioned Councillor Warner as to why he chose to write a column on a topic that was discussed at the Council Table. She felt this was a conflict of interest. Councillor Warner responded that he was disappointed Councillor Scott would not have discussed this topic privately and that he has every right to express his opinion. Councillor Scott did not want to let this topic go and Mayor Stetski had to intervene and ask that this be discussed privately. Councillor Scott indicated she did not appreciate being "shut down". She later brought the topic up again at the round table comments.

Councillor Warner had been asked if the City's Bylaws were unenforceable. CAO Staudt responded that the City continues to be currently understaffed in that department but that the Bylaws were enforceable although it becomes difficult without the appropriate quota of staff to do the job. This will change in the near future. Mayor Stetski reinforced that this is an area of prime concern to several councillors and will be given thorough scrutiny in the near future.
Other inquiries through Councillor Warner included a Policy on Boundary Expansion in order to tidy up the current bitty boundary and progress on the Off Leash Dog Park. CAO Staudt reminded Council that it is anticipated that the gravel pit that was Moir Park will eventually become a dog park. Councillors did ask staff to consult with the School Board again to discuss the possibility of the Muriel Baxter site.

Other inquiries included topics - Dogs on Leash Signs at Elizabeth Lake, enforcement of dogs on leashes at Elizabeth Lake, switching low flow toilet rebates to commercial next year, offering rain barrels incentives, whereabouts of the speed reader.

Administration Updates
https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2381

-CBC will no longer offer free tv. This will only effect those people still using rabbit ears to receive their signal.
Councillor Davis felt this decision was unfair to those with lower incomes and felt CBC should be held accountable. Mayor Stetski pointed out a compensation package is being offered and suggested waiting to see how this decision actually does affect people in the coming months.

-The City of Cranbrook is preparing for a visit from the City of Wonju, Korea. The delegation will be arriving August 12 and the City is putting together an itinerary with the Chamber of Commerce and the neighboring First Nations communities.

-Bob Dylan will be playing at the REC PLEX on August 12

-The City is working with a local promoter to bring a mixed martial arts event to the City this fall

- Potholes are filled with asphalt by Public Works to keep them safe. Pothole patching is performed on an as-needed basis. The City relies on public reports. There are several priority roads such as Victoria Ave., Theatre Road, Echo Field Rd., 2nd Street North, and 7th Street South although it is likely that funding will run out before all the repairs can be made and some will be carried forward to 2013.

Interim CAO Staudt commented that the city continues to field a lot of calls regarding potholes. He went on to say there is a full time crew that circulates the city trying to take care of needs. However, the recent heavy rains have not helped an already very difficult situation. Both he and Mayor Stetski said they welcomed notification about bad potholes that have not been taken care of.

Correspondence

9.1 Cat Licensing
Councillor Davis pointed out that cats keep vermin such as mice under control. Councillor Scott pointed out that this topic has been discussed many times in the past and that council does not need to reinvent the wheel. Staff were asked to look into this topic.

9.2 Protection of Fish Habitat in Waterways - Notice that the City of North Vancouver is requesting that the Federal Government abandon the proposed changes to the Fisheries Act Section 35 which would remove provisions banning or limiting activities that result in the "harmful alteration, disruption or destruction of fish habitat".
https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2383
9.3 Water Conservation
9.4 Animal Husbandry -Letter from Sven Hyde expressing his disappointment in the recent decision to reject animal husbandry in the city limits.
Councillor Pallesen noted Mr. Heyde is moving out of town. Councillor Scott felt this topic should not be revisited as a decision has been made. Councillor Whetham agreed and Mayor Stetski pointed out that the topic can come forward again after 6 months.

9.5 Protection of Fish Habitat - Town of Qualicum Beach requesting that the Federal Government abandon the proposed changes to the Fisheries Act.
https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2386
Comment
It is interesting to note two communities objecting to the changes in the Fisheries Act which remove previous protections for fish habitat.

Councillor Cross made a motion in support of these communities' stand on protection of Fish Habitat and their concern with the changes to Section 35 of the Fisheries Act.
Councillor Pallesen wanted to know more about this new regulation and the motion was then tabled until the July meeting of Council.

Comment
As the use of our waterways and their care has been raised many times in this last year and 'water ' was the number one concern in the Cranbrook Connected Document. It is a disappointment that some Councillors would not familiarise themselves with this information especially when the Council package contains two letters dealing with this topic.

9.6 Memorial Scholarship Letter of Thanks from recipient Miranda Davis
9.7 Certificate from the Canadian Cancer Society recognizing the City of Cranbrook
9.8 Spray Irrigation Concerns Ongoing concerns expressed by Jim Roberts regarding the water the cattle are being allowed to drink which is 320-2000 times above the Canadian Standard.
Councillor Pallesen felt that Mr. Roberts had been responded to many times and that a response was not in order. It was pointed out by other Councillors that this issue does not go away and maybe Mr. Roberts is frustrated by the lack of clear answers. There is discrepancy between what ranchers say and what provincial authorities have to say. She questioned why Mr Roberts was using 2010 results.
Comment
In an enquiry just moments before, Council was asked why none of the cattle watering testing results were included in the public 2011 report, hence the reason for Mr Roberts enquiry using results from 2010.

9.9 Sam Steele Days 2012
9.10 Armond Theatre Restoration - Requesting that the City act as the financial agent for the purpose of collecting donations for the Theatre Restoration project.
Approved

9.11 Urban Poultry Keeping
More discussion continued on the topic of urban poultry. Councillor Scott felt although children's letters submitted were 'cute' the decision has been made and this topic should not come back for another 2 or 3 or 5 years.

9.12 Community Poverty Reduction Strategy Letter from the Ministry of Children and Family Development
This project is now in place with staff employed.

9.13 JCI Thank You
A discussion ensued regarding policy around the donation of funds from contingency. After concern shown by some taxpayers, Councillor Cross enquired with staff about a policy and it was found amounts over $500 needed more information before a decision was made. New Councillors had not known about this policy. The Junior Chamber International were the fortunate recipients of $1000 at the last Council Meeting which most of Council now felt was rather an oversight on their part. However it was agreed after this meeting, policy would be adhered to.

9.14 United Way Park on Us Campaign
9.15 Heliport Operations Requesting a letter of support for the use of night vision googles to make the Heliport a 24/7 operation

11.1 Committee Report Cranbrook In Motion
Recommendation made by the Committee that Council approve of the installation of a disabled person parking space on 9th Avenue South-100 Block as requested by Baker Hill Dental Clinic
Approved

11.2 Committee Report Wellness and Heritage
Recommendation made by the Committee that Council NOT proceed with putting a roof over the Senior Fitness Park. The Alternative is to proceed with the preliminary Design Study for the proposed installation of a roof.
Approved

11.3 Committee Recommendations - Athletic Commission
That Council authorize the City of Cranbrook Athletic Commission to submit correspondence to the province regarding Bill 50 which would establish a consistent framework to oversee the conduct of these professional events. While the committee is in support of the legislation they would have liked the opportunity to provide input and raise their concerns.
Carried

12.1 New Business - Draft Electronic Changeable Copy Sign Policy
Recommendation made by staff that the Draft Policy No. 30-03 be adopted and that Council authorize staff to add the policy guidelines as regulations in the new Sign Control Bylaw to be prepared by Administration as previously direct by Council.
Carried

12.2 New Business - Safe Communities Request
Recommendation made by staff that Council NOT authorize the permanent placement of the Safe Communities Cranbrook logo on the City of Cranbrook Website.
There was discussion around this as some Councillors would like this information included on the city's website. However it would be necessary to have a policy regarding what links and information should be on the City's webpage. This issue has been referred to staff to go on the 'worklist'

12.3 New Business - United Way Friendship Festival
Recommendation made by staff that that Council authorizes the request from Donna Brady Fields for items as requested.
Carried

12.4 New Business - Native Fastball Tournament
Recommendation by staff that the request by Chief Cheryl Casimer for the Canadian Native Fastball Championships be authorized except for the request for $5000 although the City will provide $540 to be allocated from Council contingency to cover costs associated with these requests.
Councillors had difficulty with this decision in light of a previous donation over $1000. In the end it carried that Council would donate $540 of labour and another $500 cash donation. This decision was justified under the policy phrase 'or at Council discretion.' Councillors Pallesen and Scott voted against the motion to donate the extra $500. Council agreed policy must be adhered to in the future.

Councillor Cross further explained at the Brown Bag Lunch of June 26th that her rationale for voting for this although it did go against policy was that this request had been submitted at the same time as the Junior Chamber International request. As they were given $1000 it seemed only right that this group which will bring in 60 Ball teams and their families and supporters should receive similar treatment. Mayor Stetski agreed.

Comment
It is interesting that two Councillors who should have known about the $500 policy as they were on the previous Council, had no trouble the week prior, to donating a $1000 to Junior JCI for a Conference that will be held in Kimberley.

By-Laws

13.1 By-Laws 3750, 2012 Zoning Amendment has been postponed

13.2 By-Laws 3752.2012 Recommendation that Council adopt the Development Cost Charge Reserve Funds Establishment Bylaw
Carried

13.3 By-Laws 3753-2012 Recommendation that Council give first and second reading to the City of Cranbrook Zoning Amendment Bylaw
Mayor Stetski thanked Rob Veg for his creative solution to a long standing zoning issue in Slaterville.
Carried

Monday, June 25, 2012

Advance Council Notes - June 25th

Administration Updates
https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2381

-CBC will no longer offer free tv. This will only effect those people still using rabbit ears to receive their signal.

-The City of Cranbrook is preparing for a visit from the City of Wonju, Korea. The delegation will be arriving August 12 and the City is putting together an itinerary with the Chamber of Commerce and the neighboring First Nations communities.

-Bob Dylan will be playing at the REC PLEX on August 12

-The City is working with a local promoter to bring a mixed martial arts event to the City this fall

- Potholes are filled with asphalt by Public Works to keep them safe. Pothole patching is performed on an as-needed basis. The City relies on public reports. There are several priority roads such as Victoria Ave., Theatre Road, Echo Field Rd., 2nd Street North, and 7th Street South although it is likely that funding will run out before all the repairs can be made and some will be carried forward to 2013.

Correspondence

9.1 Cat Licensing
9.2 Protection of Fish Habitat in Waterways - Notice that the City of North Vancouver is requesting that the Federal Government abandon the proposed changes to the Fisheries Act Section 35 which would remove provisions banning or limiting activities that result in the "harmful alteration, disruption or destruction of fish habitat".
https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2383
9.3 Water Conservation
9.4 Animal Husbandry -Letter from Sven Hyde expressing his disappointment in the recent decision to reject animal husbandry in the city limits
9.5 Protection of Fish Habitat - Town of Qualicum Beach requesting that the Federal Government abandon the proposed changes to the Fisheries Act.
https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2386
Comment
It is interesting to note two communities objecting to the changes in the Fisheries Act which remove previous protections for fish habitat.
9.6 Memorial Scholarship Letter of Thanks from recipient Miranda Davis
9.7 Certificate from the Canadian Cancer Society recognizing the City of Cranbrook
9.8 Spray Irrigation Concerns Ongoing concerns expressed by Jim Roberts regarding the water the cattle are being allowed to drink which is 320-2000 times above the Canadian Standard
9.9 Sam Steele Days 2012
9.10 Armond Theatre Restoration - Requesting that the City act as the financial agent for the purpose of collecting donations for the Theatre Restoration project
9.11 Urban Poultry Keeping
9.12 Community Poverty Reduction Strategy Letter from the Ministry of Children and Family Development
9.13 JCI Thank You
9.14 United Way Park on Us Campaign
9.15 Heliport Operations Requesting a letter of support for the use of night vision googles to make the Heliport a 24/7 operation

11.1 Committee Report Cranbrook In Motion
Recommendation made by the Committee that Council approve of the installation of a disabled person parking space on 9th Avenue South-100 Block as requested by Baker Hill Dental Clinic

11.2 Committee Report Wellness & Heritage
Recommendation made by the Committee that Council NOT proceed with putting a roof over the Senior Fitness Park. The Alternative is to proceed with the preliminary Design Study for the proposed installation of a roof

11.3 Committee Recommendations - Athletic Commission
That Council authorize the City of Cranbrook Athletic Commission to submit correspondence to the province regarding Bill 50 which would establish a consistent framework to oversee the conduct of these professional events. While the committee is in support of the legislation they would have liked the opportunity to provide input and raise their concerns.

12.1 New Business - Draft Electronic Changeable Copy Sign Policy
Recommendation made by staff that the Draft Policy No. 30-03 be adopted and that Council authorize staff to add the policy guidelines as regulations in the new Sign Control Bylaw to be prepared by Administration as previously direct by Council

12.2 New Business - Safe Communities Request
Recommendation made by staff that Council NOT authorize the permanent placement of the Safe Communities Cranbrook logo on the City of Cranbrook Website.

12.3 New Business - United Way Friendship Festival
Recommendation made by staff that that Council authorizes the request from Donna Brady Fields for items as requested

12.4 New Business - Native Fastball Tournament
Recommendation by staff that the request by Chief Cheryl Casimer for the Canadian Native Fastball Championships be authorized except for the request for $5000 although the City will provide $540 to be allocated from Council contingency to cover costs associated with these requests.

By-Laws

13.1 By-Laws 3750, 2012 Zoning Amendment has been postponed

13.2 By-Laws 3752.2012 Recommendation that Council adopt the Development Cost Charge Reserve Funds Establishment Bylaw

13.3 By-Laws 3753-2012 Recommendation that Council give first and second reading to the City of Cranbrook Zoning Amendment Bylaw

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Joseph Creek, Saturday June 23rd

The high water has subsided since last evening but these photos of Stewart Wilson's demonstrate clearly the high potential for flooding at this time.

Shady Soloman's Seal

All versions of Soloman's Seal will grow in this area and identities can be somewhat confusing!

Star Flowered False Soloman's Seal is a very common wild flower in our area. It is called false because it resembles another plant named Soloman's Seal, true Soloman's Seal. Star Flowered False Soloman's Seal will grow in shady but fairly arid conditions. It is a small (10 - 20cm tall)plant. Although a native to the area and considered 'wild' it grows well in those difficult dry shady spaces in cultivated gardens.

Another, but much larger plant which resembles Soloman's Seal is called simply , False Soloman's Seal and grows in much wetter shady conditions than Star Flowered Soloman's Seal.

Both forms of False Soloman's Seal go by the botanical handle of Smilacena racemosa.

Soloman's Seal (true Soloman's Seal) is not native to our area but is grown as a garden plant and it likes moist shady locations. It has the botanical name of Polygonatum and there are many varieties. This plant although similar in appearance is not related to the False Soloman's Seals.

Both the similarities and differences become obvious in these photos.

Soloman's Seal, grown locally and used in a flower display by Judy Walker

Star Flowered Soloman's Seal, found all around in our local forests

False Soloman's Seal found in damp forests,

False Soloman's Seal

To Market, To Market

It's back and it was smiles all round!

Head Lettuce - Erna Schill

Andrew and Chloe

Sally, Kailin and Terry

Suzanne

We love the market!

photos Jenny Humphrey, Sally Passey

Saturday, June 23, 2012

Symphony of the Kootenays at Aboriginal Days

Relaxing while staking out a position to enjoy the concert.

It was a perfect summer evening at St Eugene Mission yesterday and a
perfect ending to the Aboriginal Day Celebration.

The Symphony of the Kootenays played a program of 'mountain themed ' music including a piece by Croall accompanied by Joe Pierre reading 'Stories from Coyote'. To hear 'How Coyote Created the Moon' accompanied by musical yipping and cawing was wonderful.

Warming up.

Chief Cheryl Casimer

Joe Pierre and Concert Master Bruce Dunn

Loving it,

For the finale, the large and appreciative audience clapped along to the Redetsky March by Strauss and what could be better than an Andre Rieu style Concert in such a beautiful setting so close to home.

photos - Jenny Humphrey and Sally Passey

Friday, June 22, 2012

An Opportunity Not to be Missed

Perceptions by Gerry Warner

It was the spring of 1966 and I was a callow youth attending a brand new university called SFU, or Snafu, as UBC students derisively referred to it. No matter. I was young. I had my first university girlfriend and we were going to a concert to hear a folk-come-rock singer I had barely heard of – Bob Dylan.

My girlfriend, a dark-haired beauty, who looked really cute in her trademark, leather Mao cap, was a poet of sorts and had been sending Dylan poems detailing her romantic anguish while I was still heavily into Robert Service and the Cremation of Sam McGee. No matter! She did look cute in that Mao Cap.

Anyway, the venue was the PNE Agrodome, a performing space built for Clydesdale horses, Lipizzan Stallions and the like and there was a distinct horsey smell in the air, but this mattered not a whit to my girlfriend because she was there to see God – and as far as song-writing goes – she was probably right. Me? I was along for the ride, but that soon changed.

Little did I realize at the time but we were there at probably the most seminal point in Dylan’s fabled career.

The great troubadour from Hibbing, Minnesota had just cut 'Highway 61 Revisited' and for all intents and purposes, had cut his ties to folk music for good and this enraged his original fans who worshipped him as a folkie and could not live with the change. There is a story, likely apocryphal, that at the Newport Folk Festival the year before when the greatest folk icon of them all – Pete Seeger – saw Dylan put down his acoustic guitar and pick up the electric he went looking for an axe to cut the wire. Many of his shocked fans were in tears and in that same year at a concert in Manchester when Dylan switched from acoustic to electric one enraged fan screamed out “Judas.”

Dylan’s response? He turned to his bandmates and told them to crank the volume up and broke into “Like a Rolling Stone,” the song recently named by Rolling Stone Magazine the Number One rock song of all time. And the Manchester concert story is not apocryphal. It’s on tape. I’ve heard it.

Anyway, I think it was also in 1966 that Peter, Paul and Mary covered Dylan’s classic “Blowin’ In The Wind,” probably the most eloquent and passionate piece against war, oppression and injustice ever written. I was hooked. I’ve been a Dylan acolyte ever since.

Now, I don’t say the forgoing lightly. No person in this vale of tears is perfect. Not Bob Dylan. Not yours truly. Not any of the rest of you for that matter. We’re mere mortals, imperfect in so many ways, but that doesn’t mean we can’t aspire to be something better. And that’s what Dylan’s music has always done for me. It has made me try to be better. Try to be a just, compassionate, caring, tolerant and more loving individual. Oh, I’ve failed many times. Still failing for that matter. But damn it, I’m trying. And that’s all you can really do. Failure just means you haven’t given up. Start worrying when you quit trying.

“How many roads most a man walk down
Before you call him a man ?
How many seas must a white dove sail
Before she sleeps in the sand ?
Yes, how many times must the cannon balls fly
Before they're forever banned ?
The answer my friend is . . . you know the rest.

Cranbrook, you’d be well advised to take in this show. Dylan may be eccentric and not in good voice anymore – if he ever was – and not exactly a warm and fuzzy entertainer. But he’s a true living legend and the biggest name to ever play our little burg and likely to be the biggest of all time.

Go . . . And you’ll have something to tell your grandchildren.

Social Planning Society hires Social Researcher to fire up the Living Wage Project in Cranbrook.

Cranbrook, British Columbia - June 19th, 2012 - The members of the Social Planning Society of Cranbrook are excited to announce the recent hiring of Delaney Kunitz (pictured) as Social Researcher for the Living Wage Project. The Living Wage project will focuses on the calculation of $14.16/hour, which is higher than minimum wage, and the ways we can support the many working families in Cranbrook are living below or at that measure.

The Cranbrook Social Planning Society Families began the Living Wage project in Cranbrook in 2011 because “Families are working harder – often holding down more than one job – and yet they're still struggling to make ends meet” according to Dana Osiowy, Board Chair. The Cranbrook Social Planning Society includes a number of key community service organizations like ANKORS, the United Way, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cranbrook, East Kootenay Child Care Resource and Referral Program and community members at large. The goal of the Social Planning Society is to improve the living circumstances of individuals and community through social planning activities, coordinated research, collaborative engagement, and strategic action.

Working with the community, Kunitz will be collecting stories and experiences of people struggling to survive at or below the wage of $14.16 per hour. A community’s living wage was calculated by Caitlin Etherington from Interior Health as the Regional Population Health Facilitator. The calculation was made in conjunction with the University of Victoria and by looking at local expenses, including rent and childcare, plus government transfers minus deductions. It is very important to remember that the Living Wage is not minimum wage - it is the minimum a person needs to make to be able to afford basic necessities.

“No should have to decide between paying the mortgage and buying groceries,” Kunitz says. “My goal in working with this project is to gather real life stories and struggles to share with local business and agencies within the community. It’s important for our community to realize that those living at or below the Living Wage are not the minority and we should work around this and collaborate as a community to support these workers.”

Kunitz will be working over the summer to compile stories and create communications and support materials for the Living Wage in Cranbrook. If you or anyone you know would be interested in sharing a story, please contact Delaney at 250.489.3111 or via e-mail at delaney .kunitz @bigbrothersbigsisters.ca

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Twinkie versus Carrot

Much food for thought.

Michael Pollen's book The Botany of Desire was the topic of a PBS Documentary a short while ago.
http://michaelpollan.com/books/the-botany-of-desire/

What's Happening...

Thursday, June 21

Cranbrook and District Arts Council Gala Reception
VisArts exhibition at the Artrageous Gallery
135-10th Ave. South
For more information please call 250-426-4223
VisArts CDAC Members Exhibition ongoing

Friday, June 22

Aboriginal Days at St. Eugene Resort
Events will include a variety of music and dance
including a performance by the Symphony of the Kootenays
Admission is free but bring your own chairs
For more information visit www.steugene.ca

Saturday, June 23

Cranbrook Farmers Market Season Opener
Our amazing market will once again be offering us the best crafts, food and produce our region has to offer
9am-1pm, 10th Avenue South beside Rotary Park

East Kootenay Outdoor Club
Hike Silver Springs Lakes

426-8864 Lorne Sinclair

Night of Standup Comedy
Comedians Sean Lecomber, Ryan Paterson, and Mary Schatchschneider
will be performing tonight at the Heritage Inn
Tickets are $15 at the door

Bull River Community Weed Pull
Bull River bridge off Warner Rd
Remove invasive species and learn about biological control

Sunday, June 24

The Fab Fourever
A Beatles tribute band will be performing at the Key City Theatre
7pm, tickets are $35 available at the KCT box office

Monday, June 25

The East Kootenay Regional Science Fair Society
is holding its General Meeting at 7pm tonight at the COTR
Volunteers needed to help next years fair

Tuesday, June 26

Cranbrook Curling Club Tuesday Night Fun League
7pm, 1777 - 2nd St. North
For more information call 250-426-4415
Drop in fee is $5. All equipment is provided

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Free Bus Rides to the Market

If you are carrying a reusable or recycled bag and are headed to or leaving Cranbrook's Farmer's Market during Farmer's Market hours, your ride will be free on Cranbrook transit. The summer markets will run every Saturday from June 23rd to October 6th 2012 and the free bus rides will operate between 8:30am and 1:30pm. The free rides are for non-transferable passes only.

The City of Cranbrook is funding the free rides for all 16 Saturday markets.

"The Farmers Market is an integral part of the social fabric of Cranbrook and is key to the financial well being of many of our small businesses," said Mayor Wayne Stetski, "By providing free bus service we are supporting the market and encouraging citizens to make transit a regular part of their day to day living."

This innovative partnership between BC transit and the City of Cranbrook also achieves the goals identified in the community's long term sustainability plan "Connecting to our Future."

The City of Cranbrook has a large number of reusable Cranbrook Connected bags available for pick up free of charge at City Hall during regular business hours. They will also be available at the market of June 23rd.

For more information:

www.bctransit.com

www.cranbrookfarmersmarket.com

Bike Share

The trend is there. There is no denying that. Interesting reading even if we are not close.....yet.

City of Vancouver Public Bicycle Share System:

http://vancouver.ca/ctyclerk/cclerk/20120613/documents/ptec1presentation.pdf

and from the Tyee:

"The current proposal would start with 1,500 bicycles at 125 stations throughout the downtown core and along the Broadway corridor from Main to Arbutus Streets. The City is in negotiation with Portland-based Alta Bicycle Share to operate the system, working with the Montreal company Bixi as a subcontractor to provide the infrastructure."

http://thetyee.ca/Blogs/TheHook/Municipal-Politics/2012/06/14/YVR-Bike-Share/