Paris 2015, Climate Conference

http://www.cop21.gouv.fr/en/

Nature's Ice Sculptures

Photos Stewart Wilson

Trail Blazing Cities

2050 Vision: 8 Trailblazing Cities Prove the Future is Now

http://www.zipcar.com/ziptopia/future-metropolis/2050-vision-8-trailblazing-cities-prove-the-future-is-now?utm_source=outbrain&utm_medium=display&utm_content=paid&utm_campaign=2050+Vision%3A+8+Trailblazing+Cities+Prove+the+Fut

BY HANNAH SILVA

It’s no coincidence that Zipcars live in leading-edge cities. And as we work towards advances in technology, transportation, sustainability, and city living, so do the following locales. With 70% of the world’s population forecasted to be city dwellers by the year 2050, these leaders and innovators are increasingly critical players in the evolution of urban life. Here’s a peek at what makes them so uniquely revolutionary — and how you can benefit when you stop by.

Go to the link above.

Rick's Refugee Rant

What's Happening....

Friday November 27th

Santa Claus Parade
Downtown Cranbrook
7:00pm


Friday November 27th - Sunday November 29th

Friday5:00pm -9:00pm, Sat 10:00am - 3:00pm
Sunday pm
Winter Farmer's Market
Baker St.
Old Supervalu Building
see poster to right.

December 1st

Key City Theatre
Dan Mangan
7:30
Tickets $32 and $26 for members

Wednesday December 2nd
Elementary School Massed Choir
Cranbrook Alliance Church
7:30pm

Friday December 4th and Sunday December 6th 

Sun Valley Song
Knox Presbyterian Church
7:30pm Friday 2:30pm Sunday
Tickets
lotus Books
$10 adults $5 Youth, 12 and under.


December 1st- December 24th

Cranbrook and District Arts Council
'Art Group 75 Exhibit'
The Gallery
1013, Baker St.

Key City Theatre Gallery
November 18th - December 15th
Affordable Art
All pieces under $300

Supporting Refugees

For more information:

http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/how-to-help-syrian-refugees-in-your-community-1.2675375

The Cranbrook Hub for Refugees

submitted

Nov. 26, 2015

Cranbrook church group to sponsor Syrian refugee family

A Syrian refugee family could be coming to Cranbrook thanks to the efforts of a newly-formed group called the Cranbrook Hub for Refugees (CHR), a constituent group of Christ Church Anglican, the oldest church in Cranbrook.

The eight-member group, which formed in late October, has completed an Expression of Interest application, the first step in the process for sponsoring a refugee family from Syria or elsewhere in the war-torn Middle East. The federal Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship hopes to bring 10,000 Syrian refugees to Canada by the end of the year and 15,000 more by the end of February 2016.

Government regulations require refugee sponsoring groups to raise $15,000 before they will be considered for sponsorship. The Anglican Diocese of Kootenay has sponsored refugees before and is now planning a major fund-raising campaign that will kick off soon.

CHR chairman Gerry Warner says the campaign will go into high gear after Christmas although it’s accepting donations now. “With Christmas fast approaching, people’s financial resources are ready being stretched so we won’t do a major fund-raiser until January. But if someone wants to make a donation to us, or as a gift to someone else, we’ll certainly accept it and issue a tax receipt.”

The first refugees are expected to arrive in Canada within days, but are going mainly to military barracks in large cities such as Toronto, Montreal and Edmonton for relocation. As a result, Warner cautions this is only the beginning of what could be a long process.

“At this point we have no idea when we could expect to have a family in Cranbrook. 

But the important thing now is we’re doing everything we can to ensure that an immigrant family will feel welcome, safe and secure when they do arrive.”

Warner said CHR has been holding planning meetings weekly to prepare for the refugees’ arrival and has reached out to other Cranbrook churches interested in sponsoring refugees.

“The more churches and non-church groups that participate in this the better,” he says. “This is a humanitarian crisis of world-wide proportions and we need everyone’s help to prevent an even bigger catastrophe.”

Warner says members of the Christ Church congregation were jolted into action by the picture of three-year-old toddler Aylan Kurdi, whose lifeless body washed up on a Turkish beach Sept. 2 after the refugee boat he was in with his family capsized while crossing the Mediterranean.

“Like many around the world, we were horrified by that picture.”

Meanwhile Warner says there’s little CHR can do now until its application is approved by Ottawa. But once it’s approved, CHR will be looking for volunteers to help provide housing, furniture, clothing and emotional support for the refugee family. Schooling and ESL lessons will also have to be arranged.

The  group’s next meeting is Jan. 6 at which time it hopes to have its application approved by Ottawa and intensive preparations can begin for the arrival of the refugee family.

“We also plan on having a public meeting in January for anyone interested in helping us in this sorely-needed effort to help these brave families driven from their homes and facing dangers unimaginable to us,” Warner says.

Anyone seeking more information on CHR can contact Gerry Warner at (250) 489-3271 or Bonnie Spence-Vinge at (250) 426-4274.

Clouds Over Sidra

For a real view of what a refugee camp looks like, Za’atari Syrian refugee camp in Jordan,  this video will provide insight.  

An Innovative Advocacy tool promoting Citizen Perspectives in 2015

Clouds Over Sidra is viewable in three ways different ways:

• With the Samsung Gear VR and Samsung Phone: Download Vrse.works in the Oculus Home Store once using the headset
• With iOS system or Android Phone using Google Cardboard: Download theVrse.Works App.
• With iOS system or Android Phone without Google Cardboard: Download theVrse.Works App.

Clouds over Sidra is a collaboration between the UN Millennium Campaign (UNMC),UNICEF Jordan, Samsung, Vrse.works, co-created by Chris Milk and Gabo Arora. It follows the life of a young girl living in the Za’atari Syrian refugee camp in Jordan.

Clouds Over Sidra was initially created to support the United Nations Secretary-General’s MDG Advocacy Group’s call for partnerships to build resilience in vulnerable communities. The UNMC is in the process of rolling out a strategy to ensure that the films are well placed in forums so as to influence both decision makers and the general public. Thus far it has been screened at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Sundance, SXSW, TED, the Third International Humanitarian Appeal for Syria in Kuwait, the World Education Forum and the World Education Summit.

Letter from MP, Wayne Stetski

November 24, 2015

                    One Month Later…

Thank you to the 63,203 people who voted in the October 19, 2015 election. Almost 74% of eligible voters in Kootenay Columbia took that walk to the polls, which was amongst the highest in Canada! This election was an excellent example of how every vote counts, and it is an honor to serve you as your Member of Parliament. So what’s been happening in the first month?

Starting out as a Member of Parliament is incredibly busy. One of the challenges is setting up offices – my plan is to have staff in Ottawa, Nelson and Cranbrook for January 4, 2016. This involves leasing new space and furnishing the offices with the recycled inventory used by the former MP as the furniture, computers, etc. are all owned by the House of Commons. I plan on having one staff person in Ottawa and four in the riding so that you get good service here at home!

We are assigned office locations in Ottawa based on “standing,” so for this 42^nd Session of Parliament Liberal MPs picked their offices first, Conservative MPs second, and we are in process of picking our offices now. The next update will include my Ottawa office information – even if we’re picking third it is an honor to have an office on Parliament Hill!

I also have to hire the staff. The NDP has unionized Constituency and Parliamentary Assistants and since we went from 103 seats to 44 in the election, there are several hundred qualified people in Ottawa who, under the contract, get the first opportunity to bid on the jobs both in Ottawa and across the country. That process is underway.

The MP has to serve their constituents whether permanent staff is in place or not. In the last month I have attended meetings and events in Fernie, Cranbrook, Creston, Invermere, Nelson, Kaslo and Johnson’s Landing. There have been phone calls (250.919.9104) and emails (wayne.stetski@parl.gc.ca) and letters (PO Box 872, Cranbrook V1C 4J6 until January 1 and then send mail to Unit B – 111 7^th Ave S, Cranbrook V1C 2J3) to answer.

There have been about 100 letters so far including those waiting for me in Ottawa. Experienced MPs have told me that once everything is up and running an MP can expect to get between 300 and 500 emails per day. If you have sent me some correspondence and haven’t heard back yet please be patient – you will get a response! Phone me if it is urgent.

In the last month I was also in Ottawa for 5 days participating in an intensive orientation focused on finance and admin and the non-parliamentary aspects of being an MP. We are given a budget that includes staff salaries, office leases, providing information to constituents, in-riding travel, etc. If we go over it we pay for it out of our own pockets!

On average we spend over six months of the year in Ottawa participating in Parliament and other national responsibilities (for example I am the NDP critic for National Parks) so I also have to find accommodation in Ottawa. The balance of the year is spent traveling around the riding meeting with constituents.

Our job as the Progressive Opposition is to make government and Canada better, and that is exactly what we will do!

Parliament begins on December 3 and continues until December 11 before breaking for Christmas. My next update will include a look at what it’s like to sit in the House of Commons as your MP. I’m sure it will be an exciting and humbling experience!

Have a happy Holiday Season and a great New Year! I hope to see many of you during the break when I start my 'Coffee With Your MP' sessions around the riding!

Wayne Stetski

Member of Parliament

Kootenay Columbia

Nature's Labyrinth, Baby Toes, Night Sky and More

Like flowers in the spring, nature's artistry is often ephemeral.  With the arrival of snow, these beautiful ice pictures are now gone.  They were beautiful while they lasted.

photos, thanks to the observant eyes of Stewart Wilson

Cranbrook and Refugees

In light of Cranbrook's proclamation, it would be helpful if those agencies proposing to sponsor refugees could let the general public know.  Although there are many good causes for donations, this is a particularly generous time of year and might be a good time to begin fundraising for any potential refugees coming to Cranbrook.  It is our understanding that some applications have been forwarded to immigration already.  Is there a local fund people might donate to?  Please let us know and we will publish it. 

click to enlarge

The Cranbrook Guardian subsequently received the article published under the title 'The Cranbrook Hub for Refugees'.  It is our understanding donations are beginning to be received.

Why Canada Can Safely Meet Its Refugee Commitments, The Tyee

Why Canada Can Safely Meet Its Refugee Commitments

An immigration lawyer breaks down the security screening process.

By Laura Best, 18 Nov 2015, TheTyee.ca

http://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2015/11/18/Canada-Can-Meet-Syrian-Refugee-Commitments/

Contrary to the influx of migrants crossing into Europe over the past months, Canada is resettling pre-screened refugees who have been approved for permanent residency by a Canadian visa officer abroad. The process is thorough and involves international and national law enforcement agencies.

Go to the link above to read the entire article and explanation of the process.

When evaluating security threats, Canadians would do well to look at the evidence. All of the identified attackers from Paris appear to be Belgian or French nationals, yet no politician has suggested increased screening of European visitors or immigrants to Canada. Studies out of the University of British Columbia, the University of Toronto and Harvard University link an increase in immigration to a decrease in crime.
Statistics Canada data suggests that the percentage of new immigrants in Toronto and Montreal neighbourhoods is inversely proportional to all types of violent crime.
Equating refugees with a security risk is ill-informed and inflammatory. Syrian refugees are fleeing the same brutality and cruelty that was inflicted on Parisians this past week. The commitment to resettle 25,000 refugees was a breath of fresh air after years of obfuscation and unconscionable government delays on this file. Violence against innocent civilians should strengthen our resolve to offer safe haven to war's victims, not delay it. 

Freeze Up

Ice is forming or has now formed on our lakes and sloughs but it is still thin.  Approach the clear glass-like appearance with caution to see what lies beneath the depths.  Ice formation does always happen in this sequence but when it does underwater beauty and life forms are revealed.

photos, Stewart Wilson

Elizabeth Lake

Kill Kill Kill Never Works, by Gerry Warner

Kill, kill, kill never works!

Perceptions by Gerry Warner

So what is the proper response to the ISIS savagery in Paris last week?

Should Western countries in the words of French President Francois Hollande wage “pitiless war” on the Jihadi terrorists, an understandable response in terms of the immense tragedy. But isn’t France and the NATO coalition already at war with ISIS ever since the brutal militants burst on the scene two years ago and quickly conquered a large swath of Syria and Iraq?

And what has that accomplished? Apparently very little judging by the impunity that deadly evening with which the fanatical terrorists slaughtered 129 innocents in the “City of Light.”

So don’t you think it’s time to consider a new strategy to deal with what US President Barack Obama called “an attack on all of humanity.” 

Remember President Bush’s response to 9/11? “Those who aren’t with us are against us” and promptly declared war on Iraq, which had nothing to do with the horrific attack, which was master-minded by Osama bin Laden, the leader of al Qaeda, the terrorist organization that spawned ISIS more than a decade later. However, Bush blundered on to wage war against Afghanistan where American troops are fighting to this day. Can anyone say the world is any safer for this endless warfare?

Of course not. If anything we’re less secure thanks to the failed strategy of Western leaders who naively think they can bomb terrorist groups like ISIS and al Qaeda into submission while killing thousands of innocent Muslim civilians which only causes them to become radicalized and throw in their lot with the terrorists. That’s exactly what ISIS wants – a world-wide religious war between Islam and Christianity – and we’re being duped by their strategy. Don’t you think it’s time we stopped playing their game?

What’s happening now is not “war” in the traditional sense of tanks and troops at the front lines and nation states trying to conquer each other. ISIS, or the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, is a religious Muslim caliphate, actually a theocracy, that has seized a large cross-border section of Iraq and Syria and is trying to establish a Sunni caliphate there as part of the struggle between Sunni and Shia Muslims that has been raging for more than a thousand years. And whoever wins this struggle wants to go on to conquer the infidels and rule the world and all we’re doing is fanning the flames of this fanatical and ridiculous fantasy.

Why are we doing it?

Could it be because we’ve never really understood the Islamic world and didn’t care in our eagerness to exploit the region for its oil and as a buffer between us and Asian powers like Russia and China?

After World War I, France and England dominated that part of the world and ruthlessly carved it up to suit their imperial ambitions completely ignoring the traditional boundaries and ethno-religious  groupings that had existed for thousands of years. Such arrogance breeds hatred and now it’s payback time and the jihadists are making their old Imperial masters pay grievously, killing hundreds of innocent people in the process. So, as was asked at the beginning, what should our response be to the latest atrocity in France?

The answer may be difficult, but it’s not rocket science.

We must swallow our pride and arrogant belief that we always know what’s best for the Middle East and cease our military interference in that deeply, troubled part of the world. We should pull our troops out and bring home our planes, drones and missiles and let them fight it out themselves. They’ll resolve it. Religious fanatics always do – eventually – and they won’t be killing us in the process. If any of them are stupid enough to attack us on our own territory, we’ll deal with them with deadly force as we’re entitled to do. In other words, we’ve got to start waging peace instead of war.

War doesn’t work.   

Gerry Warner is a retired journalist

  

Metis Week Proclamation

Story and photos by Stewart Wilson

MP Wayne Stetski makes some opening remarks

A crowd of between 100 and 150 enjoyed sunny skies as they joined in celebrating the Metis Week Proclamation and Celebration in Rotary Park on Thursday November 19th. 

Welcome remarks were made by Ktunaxa Nation Chair, Ms. Kathryn Teneese; MP Wayne Stetski; Rocky Mountain Metis Association President, Marlin Ratch; Mayor Lee Pratt; as well as SD#5 dignitaries.

Following the signing of the Proclamation declaring Metis Week in Cranbrook by President Marlin Ratch, the Metis National Anthem was sung. The celebration concluded with the SD#5 Jiggers performing a couple of dances including the Broom Dance.

Today is National Child Day

National Child Day is celebrated in Canada on November 20 in recognition of the UN Declaration on the Rights of the Child and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. It is the perfect time for young Canadians to express themselves and shape their own future.

http://www.unicef.ca/en/our-work/article/celebrate-national-child-day-2015

It might also be a time to become aware of the conditions many refugee children are attempting to survive in.  Graphic images can be viewed at:

http://www.buzzfeed.com/lynzybilling/where-syrian-children-sleep#.lv40ENDwyR

For those questioning the intake of refugees into this country the question might be asked - Where would you propose these children go if you are not prepared to welcome them here?

What's Happening.....

Thursday November 19th

Barra MacNeils
Key City Theatre
7:30pm

Friday November 20th

Key City Theatre
'Affordable Art'
November 18th to December 15th
All pieces priced under $300

Saturday November 21st

Fisher Peak Performing Arts Society
Sponsor Appreciation Dance
Cranbrook Golf Club
The testers and Split Shift
7:00pm for 8:00pm
$10 members, $15 non members
Tickets Lotus Books

Girl Guides of Canada
Spaghetti Dinner
Cranbrook Eagles hall
250-489-3155
$9 and $5 for six years and under.

Tea and Bazaar
Knox Presbyterian Church
2:00 - 4:00pm

Tea and Bake Sale
Cranbrook United Church 2:00-4:00pm

Mayor Nenshi Comments

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatoon/calgary-mayor-criticizes-premier-brad-wall-s-syria-comments-1.3325932

Calgary mayor criticizes Premier Brad Wall's Syria comments
Mayor makes comments on CBC Radio program

The Calgary mayor also addressed what he described as a "manufactured controversy" that he said exists "more on social media than anywhere else" when it comes to perceived security concerns related to refugees in the wake of the Paris attacks.

Nenshi noted the identified attackers were French and Belgian citizens and said refugees do not pose the type of terrorist threat that some people are suggesting on social media.

A clip of the interview can be watched at the link above.

Farm from a Box

It was noted in today's Townsman (Wednesday November 18) that the mayors of Kimberley and Cranbrook are uniting for the promotion of economic development.  Different  models for local food production have been presented to the Economic Development Officer in the past with no acknowledgement.  However with considerable sums of money being raised from businesses according to the article, maybe the idea of local food production on a grander scale might be examined further with companies and professionals who could work with those who are already successful on a small scale. 

The demand for local food has been proven through the successful local Farmer's Markets.  Both the markets and growers are self-starters who have been successful without the help of economic development officers or support of other business.  Imagine how this local, currently, small industry could grow if financial investment was provided for land, greenhouses, geothermal and solar energy. The potential is enormous.

In the meantime.....

Cari E. Guittard Principal, Global Engagement Partners; Professor of Global Management, Corporate Diplomacy & Women's Leadership, Hult International Business School

Could the Future of Farming Come from Thinking Inside the Box?

Posted: 11/02/2015 10:42 am EST Updated: 11/02/2015 10:59 am EST 

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/cari-e-guittard/future-of-farming_b_8374048.html

Food Aid Reinvented - The 'Swiss Army Knife' of Sustainable Farming
Having spent much of their careers overseas and working in various development and non-profit efforts, when Brandi and Scott see a need they dive in. Farm from a Box, which has been 3 years in the making, came from their personal passion to find a different and sustainable way to reinvent food aid particularly in areas where natural resources, infrastructure and technology are scarce. "Farm from a Box is the Swiss Army knife of sustainable farming," said Brandi DeCarli. "We found that rural communities often lack the resources needed to access nutritious food. We developed a toolkit that contains all of the core components needed to grow your own food, on a two acre plot of land, without the need for an existing grid. Imagine the good it can do by growing local, organic food for a school, or helping jumpstart food production after a disaster. Farm from a Box enables and empowers communities to provide for themselves."
Working with renowned agroecology Professor, Dr. Miguel Altieri, at UC Berkeley, who says that it is possible if land, labor, compost and seeds are available, a 2 acre diversified and self-sufficient agroecological farm can be up and running in a week's time, managed by people locally. "I support the idea of Farm from a Box as it can provide basic resources for rural communities to create farms that don't require external inputs," advised Dr. Miguel, "allowing them to reach yields that will deliver sufficient food for themselves, with a surplus that can be sold in local markets."

Australian Muslim TV Host Gives Powerful Monologue

The Project host Waleed Aly produced a powerful editorial for the Australian TV show’s first episode following the Paris terror attacks, saying ISIS is much weaker than it wants the public to believe.

http://www.buzzfeed.com/shamisivasubramanian/waleed-alys-powerful-speech-following-the-paris-attacks-is-a#.tqagY088e

The same video can be watched at another link through The Huffington Post:

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2015/11/16/waleed-aly-paris-attacks-video_n_8576000.html

or by going directly to YouTube or by watching here.

The video is being praised by media such as Sydney Morning Herald.

Stop Logs in Place at Elizabeth Lake Weir

Those who follow the ups and downs of water levels in Elizabeth Lake (and Idlewild) will be interested to see that the stop logs have now been placed back in the weir at Elizabeth Lake  After the massive water build up and area flooding in 2014 -15, the logs were removed to allow the lake to drain through the restored culvert under Wattsville.   The water level has remained low after a very dry summer.  It will now be interesting to see how quickly the water level might rise to its more artificially 'normal' level. The area's listed Painted Turtles have been subjected to very difficult conditions at both Idlewild and Elizabeth Lake during the last year or two, due to widely fluctuating and uncontrolled water levels.  Their survival rate will be of particular interest.

Cranbrook Advertises for a Chief Administrative Officer

All Change at the Top

It would appear Cranbrook is looking for a new Chief Administrative Officer and that they are paying a company to carry out the search for them.

The firm of James R. Craven and Associates lists the position at:

http://jrcraven.ca/new_jobs.html#cranbrook2015

A full description of the position, as seen by the city can be found by clicking on the position, listed as, ‘Open.’

From the advertisement: "Cranbrook has an excellent K-12 school system, as well as the College of the Rockies for more advanced education. Leisure services include a major multi-purpose facility with an aquatic centre and arena complex. The arena is home to the Kootenay Ice, bringing regular WHL action and powerhouse junior hockey development. Nearby Fort Steele offers a glimpse into the past; and the overall area boasts a significant cultural life along with our vibrant Performing Arts Centre.

For further information, visit www.hellobc.com/cranbrook and www.cranbrook.ca."

We would like to add the http://backyardtraveler.ca/ , Cranbrook History Centre and the rich resource of visual artists to round out the description of our city.

'Dead Newspapers', Perceptions by Gerry Warner

So what do you want – cute kitty pictures or incisive journalism?

Perceptions by Gerry Warner

Are newspapers dead?

Not if you pay heed to Warren Buffet, the third richest man in the world according to Forbes, who is currently buying newspapers because he considers them solid, long-term investments.

The “Oracle of Omaha” as he’s known in the financial world, who famously ignored the tech bubble in the 1990’s while other investors lost their shirts, says newspapers will be around for a while yet, especially in mid-sized cities not unlike Cranbrook.

But they’ve got to have the right strategy, says the billionaire, who recently bought the Omaha World-Herald, his hometown paper for $200 million and is the largest shareholder in a string of other papers in mid-sized communities. A former paper boy, Buffet was worth $72.7 billion US in 2015, and like a paper boy, knows how to count his nickels and dimes.

“I believe newspapers that intensively cover their communities will have a good future…” he said in June 2012 when announcing his latest newspaper purchase. “In towns and cities where there is a strong sense of community, there is no more important institution than the local paper.” 

In the Digital Age, this may sound like heresy, but how to you argue with the third richest man in the world? This retired journalist is not arguing with Buffet even though I often despair for the the future of newspapers as the Internet juggernaut continues to decimate the profession I once loved. I believe the newspaper industry can be saved, but only if it lives up to Buffet’s strategy.

Remember what the wise, old Oracle said.“In towns and cities where there is a strong sense of community, there is no more important institution than the local paper.” 

Unfortunately, I think our community is more divided than it’s strong. Remember the bitter debate over the East Hill development referendum a few years ago? The development was defeated by fewer than 40 votes, revealing a community split right down the middle. And if you talk to people on the street today the split over East Hill remains as strong as ever. So what has this got to do with the future of newspapers? Glad you asked.

I was a reporter at the local paper during the sturm and drang of the East Hill controversy and witnessed the tsunami of letters that poured in of people passionately expressing their views. So many letters poured in there wasn’t room to print them all and instead we’d tell them their letters would run in the digital edition of the paper.

No damn way was the angry response! They wanted their comments published in the print edition of the paper or they didn’t want them published at all. Having them repeated in cyber space just didn’t cut it.

Since that difficult time, I’ve often reflected on this experience whenever I hear talk of the demise of newspapers. When things really matter, people still turn to their newspapers. Good ol’ ink on paper. Something printed on newsprint that you can read, put it down, pick it up, read it again, stick it on the wall or rip it to shreds. Bits and bytes floating around cyber space are good for cute kitty pictures, but they don’t cut to the core the way print-on-paper does. It’s been part of civilization’s DNA ever since Gutenberg invented the printing press and I don’t see that changing soon.

So yes, like Warren Buffet, I see a future for newspapers. But also like Buffet, I believe newspapers need to keep doing what they do best if they’re going to survive. Here’s another thing the wise ol’ Oracle said: “Skimpy news coverage will almost certainly lead to skimpy readership.”

Many newspapers today are dedicating almost all of their resources to their digital editions and producing their print editions almost as an after-thought. So what does the public want? Cute kitty pics or incisive print-on-paper journalism that can topple presidents or defeat unneeded developments?

The choice is ours.

Gerry Warner is a retired newspaper reporter who loves his cat.

What do you do darlin? I teach.

http://www.upworthy.com/a-plane-passenger-asked-a-teacher-a-kind-of-rude-question-about-her-job-she-responded-eloquently?c=ufb1

Obituary for Tink Robinson

Tink Robinson created an era at Fort Steele - the time of Tink and Judy. (70's and 80's). Their shows were just so much fun and made all who saw them happy.
Our condolences to Judy and family.

Obituary for Grant "Tink" Robinson

Tink Robinson had a most interesting life. He was a professional entertainer for 60 years. His theatrical journey as a Director, Producer, Writer, Choreographer, Singer, Dancer, Actor, Comedian, Emcee and Guest Speaker included vaudeville, summer stock, nightclubs, radio, opera, live television, ballet companies, dealers' shows, magic, satirical revues, dinner theater, T.V. commercials, recordings, film, kids' shows, conventions and professional theatre. Tink was a master tap dancer and regular… adjudicator for festivals of the arts in the disciplines of tap and music theatre.

Tink worked on more than 200 CBC television shows, and for five seasons was a choreographer and performer with Wayne and Shuster. He performed with Andy Williams, Robert Goulet, Carole Lawrence, Rosemary Clooney, Shirley Jones and the late Danny Kaye. He had the privilege of choreographing and performing in a television special, Christmas At Rideau Hall, with former Canadian Governor-General Ed Schreyer and a host of Canadian stars. He wrote, directed and performed in the touring show for Imperial Oil’s 100th Anniversary celebration.

For 13 summer seasons (1972-76 and 1982-89), Tink and his wife, Judy Armstrong, created their theatrical shows in the Wild Horse Theatre at Heritage Fort Steele, BC, where Tink wrote, directed, produced, choreographed and performed for close to half a million tourists from around the world. Tink and Judy also created a popular recording, KIDS (for all ages).

He taught at universities, worked in advertising, sold cars, rugs and jewelry. He owned and operated an eighteen-wheeler, worked as a janitor, painter, carpenter and cab driver. Tink sailed on schooners, drove a four-horse hitch stagecoach, jumped horses, drove sulkies, earned a gold shield pistol shooting, survived three car crashes and a boating accident. He had the privilege of flying with his son, Capt. Dan Robinson, on a media flight with the famed Royal Canadian Airforce Snowbirds and also flew solo himself at age 62. He was also the original A&W Root Bear.

Tink was an ordained New Thought Minister, a 32nd degree Mason and Shriner. He was a Director at the Bomber Command Museum in Nanton for 8 years. Tink is also an author and published his book of inspirational poetry, “I AM Here”.

Tink Robinson was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, Mason and friend. He passed into Spirit in his home in Calgary on October 31, 2015, surrounded by his wife, Judy, son, Dan, and daughter-in-law, Tammy. He was born in Vancouver, BC on June 4, 1937. Tink was married to Judy Armstrong for 48 years. Tink will be remembered for his smile, his zany sense of humour, talent, wisdom, quick wit and his unconditional love.

Tink was predeceased by his brother, Dave (2010) and nephew, Ken Robinson (2005). He is survived by his wife, Judy Armstrong, son, Dan (Tammy) Robinson, granddaughters, Allisha and Klara Pelletier; brother, Malcolm (Dawn) Robinson; nieces, Holly (Mike) Butterfield, Susan (Terry) Palasty, Wendy (Kevin) Batch; great nieces and nephews, Robbie, Devon, Bre, Brock, Beau; sister-in-law, Terry Robinson; niece, Debbie Robinson, great nieces, Jennifer McClintick, Kristin Lefler, David (Aima) Lefler and great great niece, Megan. There are also multitudes of cousins living in many regions of Canada, including New Brunswick. One of the last messages Tink said to his family beside saying over and over, “I love you” was “Be happy”.

A Celebration of Tink's Life will be held at a later date in the New Year, perhaps spring. Date and time to be announced.  Read More »

http://www.snodgrassfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/obituary-listings?obId=665670#/obituaryInfo

MP Wayne Stetski getting into his role

MP for Kootenay-Columbia Wayne Stetski, has been appointed as his party's critic for National Parks.

Having worked for many years in parks, this appointment is a great fit for Wayne Stetski.  Wayne will work to protect the natural environment as part of this position and has said he wishes to see important legislation that protected our lakes, rivers, wildlife and environment brought back to its former importance.

Stetski is currently working on getting office locations secured in Ottawa, Cranbrook and Nelson.  A temporary office is being set up from now until December 31st at #17, 10th Avenue South Cranbrook. Until such time as a permanent location is set up, Wayne is happy to meet in coffee shops and appointments can be made by calling Laura at 1-250-919-9104.  Wayne will be travelling regularly though the riding.

What's Happening...

Friday November 13th 

Cranbrook and District Arts Council Reception for
the 'Heartfelt ' fibre arts exhibit
1013 Baker St.
7:00pm

13th and 14th November
Magic of Christmas Arts and Crafts Show
Boot Leg Gap

Saturday November 14th

Key City Theatre
Red Rock Diner
Vancouver Arts Club
Tickets Key City Theatre

Monday November 16th
A documentary about industrial hemp, presented by Wildsight and Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook

Wednesday November 18th

College of the Rockies Lecture Theatre
7:00pm  GoGo Grannies present
 'India' a Travelogue with Don Calgren

Thursday November 19th

The Barra MacNeils
Key City Theatre
MacNeils Celtic Christmas
7:30pm
250-426-7006

Lest We Forget

Schools remembered yesterday in their different assemblies.  The service at Cranbrook's Cenotaph begins at 10:30am Rotary Park today.

Gordon terrace November 10th 2015, Photos Stewart Wilson

They're off

Canada Geese against the Steeples, readying for their flight south

photo Stewart Wilson

Does BC have a Ghost Government?

http://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2015/11/10/Christy-Clark-Ghostly-Government/

Christy Clark Runs One Ghostly, Ghastly Government

Unlike Casper, the BC Liberal version, which makes email records invisible, is extremely scary.

By Bill Tieleman, Today, TheTyee.ca 

"A reformed and modernized system will make this ghost government more accountable to the public it serves." -- Kentucky auditor Adam Edelen, 2012

Premier Christy Clark is running her own ghost government in British Columbia -- and unlike Casper the Friendly Ghost, this BC Liberal version is extremely scary.
Clark's ghost government operates in the shadows, illegally triple deleting emails so no record remains anywhere, communicating verbally and on Post-It notes later destroyed -- all to keep the information that forms the vital public record invisible to media, the public and opposition parties.
Kentucky's ghost government was discovered by state auditor of local government Adam Edelen, who found in 2012 that $2.7 billion was being spent by over 1,200 special districts, with absolutely no legal, financial or organizational reporting to taxpayers.
Here at home it was Elizabeth Denham, B.C.'s independent information and privacy commissioner, who investigated and blew the whistle on Clark's ghostly government and its ghastly practices of flagrantly breaking freedom of information (FOI) laws.

Heartfelt

Watching the world go by from the Cranbrook and District Arts Council Gallery on Baker Street are two woolly old characters who are part of an exhibit by a trio of local fibre artists. 

Rebecca Vaughan has been felting since 2007 and enjoys crafting large 3D wall hangings some of which are there to greet visitors to the Gallery.  Mary Chilton has been felting for many years and many will know her work from the beautiful silk and felt scarves that some in the area are lucky enough to own. Mary currently is making three dimensional objects such as felted bottles and bowls and has recently enjoyed making her work from locally sources fleeces.  Becca Musso enjoys making conceptually inspired art as she explores and learns more about science and nature. 

Drop by the gallery from Tuesday to Friday 11:00am to 5;00pm or Saturday 10:00am to 2;00pm to see this fine work, some of which is for sale.

Outfoxed?

Approval to this yet, unratified deal was fast by some when it was originally announced just before the Federal election.  Now that there has been time to read and digest the entire document some are confirming their original serious reservations about it.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/business/we-ve-been-outfoxed-ex-rim-mogul-fears-tpp-could-cost-canada-billions-1.2648496'

We've been outfoxed': Ex-RIM mogul fears TPP could cost Canada billions

OTTAWA -- Jim Balsillie warns that provisions tucked into the Trans-Pacific Partnership could cost Canada hundreds of billions of dollars -- and eventually make signing it the worst public policy decision in the country's history.
After poring over the treaty's final text, the businessman who helped build Research In Motion into a $20-billion global player said the deal contains "troubling" rules on intellectual property that threaten to make Canada a "permanent underclass" in the economy of selling ideas.

'Highway of Tears' Documentary Showings

The Humanity Network, in partnership with the Community Co-ordination for Safety in Relationships, and Canadian Mental Health Association Kootenays, is please to present 2 showings of the Highway of Tears, in recognition of the United Day International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. 

The Highway of Tears is a documentary looking into the missing and murdered women along a 724 kilometer stretch of highway in northern British Columbia. Please visit http://highwayoftearsfilm.com, for more information about the documentary.

The Highway of Tears Documentary Showings: Please see the attached posters for distribution

November 25th, at 6:30 pm @ the COTR Lecture theatre, Cranbrook BC

Following the documentary, their will be a panel of speakers discussing their experiences. 

November 26th, at 1:00 pm @ the Stage Door, Cranbrook BC

These are FREE events and open to the public, light refreshments will be provided. Please see the attached posters for distribution to any interested organizations or community members. 

If you would like more information on the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women please visit: http://www.un.org/en/events/endviolenceday/. 

We look forward to seeing you there. If you would like more information about the documentary or the Humanity Network, please do not hesitate to contact Amy Cross at amycross@humanitynetwork.ca or call 250-581-2111.