Letters to the Editor
You are invited to submit letters to the editor of the Anmore Alternative by e-mail at editors@anmorealternative.com by fax at (604) 778-285-9945, or by using the comment card at the bottom of this page. You need to provide your full name and contact information; however, only your name will be used unless otherwise requested. You are responsible for the content of your submission. We welcome your articles and letters to the Editor. We reserve the right to edit for brevity,accuracy, clarity, or taste. Obscenities will not be used. The Anmore Alternative will not knowingly print anything untrue, in bad taste, or potentially defamatory, libelous, or slanderous. If you are referring to a particular article, please identify it and the date. Thank you. Editor
To Jan Morrissey, Karen Steemson, Tracy Green, Lynn Burton
Please find attached a Letter to the Editor dated April 20, 2010*. I would like the letter (or links to the PDF) posted ASAP in the Online editions of both the Anmore Times and the Anmore Alternative. I would also like it printed in the next print edition of the Anmore Times (whether that be May or June). If there is a fee for doing any of the above, please let me know ASAP and I will provide the funds forthwith.
Sincerely,
Larry Barron
Rebuttal to the opinions and otherwise expressed in the April Print issue of the Anmore Times Click Here
*Link to Anmore Times April Print Edition Click Here
Please consider this as Correspondence for Council Minutes and/or as a Letter to the Editor.
16-04-10
Mayor Trasolini,
I am not sure if you are yet aware of the new proposed site of the Middle School (see attached), as the School District 43 (SD43) Trustees just met this past Monday. However, one would assume that Port Moody was at least in discussion with SD43 before they made this drastic decision to relocate the potential site of the Middle School to the baseball diamond at the Heritage Woods Secondary School.
I appreciate your cooperation in this matter and hope you understand that this new location will now be less than 50m downhill from our Sewage Treatment Plant! Thus connecting ONLY this plant to the Middle School pipes during the off hours will benefit our strata, all our children, and ultimately the environment. With Earth Day just around the corner, I hope you can see the exposure such an issue might be?
Having said that, perhaps the ... Village of Anmore Council, and newly elected Mayor, will now be able to pull their heads out of the sand and be able to reach such an agreement with Port Moody before the construction plans are finalized?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Robert Lilley
Strata LMS3080
604-469-2277
Response from Anmore's Acting Mayor: (16-04-10)
"Noted, Mr. Liley, if you would like to appear as a delegation to council touch base with Mr. Carley and we will add you to the agenda. Thanks Kerri Isaak"
14-04-10
Dear Editors,
This will verify a lot of suspicions. Check out this Globe and Mail article "Six-figure salaries the norm at top charities". Click Here Ted Ulmer
"The penalty good men pay for indifference to public affairs is to be
ruled by evil men."
- Plato
08-04-10
Dear Editors, (This letter is for the two young ladies who tried the Easter bunny cake recipe on Chef's Corner)
Did my routine reading of the Anmore Alternative this morning. Found Chef's Corner with brilliant stuff. Found also your comments about your cake.
LOOK Ladies. Give yourselves a break! I think your cake had all the possibilities and probably would have tasted real yummy. But hey, what can I say? Next time you might like to try my 'world famous' solution.
RECIPE Gros Lapin Special Cake
INGREDIENTS
1 car
30 bucks
1 box
1 Visa
1 trip down IOCO
ACHIEVE PERFECTION
Take car keys
Place carefully in ignition
Drive to Newport
Find Casa del Pane
Locate cake
Place in box
Put on Visa Card
Get back on IOCO
Take home
Remove from box
Throw away box
Lie through your teeth and tell everyone you baked it!
WORKS EVERY TIME!
Have a nice day!
Ernie Labelle (aka Gros Lapin)
02-04-10
Dear Editors,
Please express our thanks to Wandering Wade. Our family always starts the day with a quick look at the front page of the Anmore Alternative. We had forgotten that it was April Fools Day. Although only our nine year-old was tricked - and I'm not even sure there, The Anmoreasaorus started a whole round of silliness. Thanks a million.
The Ayers
02-04-10
To the editor of the Anmore Alternative;
The Sasamat Volunteer Firefighter Association would greatly appreciate it if you would be able to post our upcoming Car Wash on the Anmore Alternative website. Please find attached a copy of our Flyer, the Car wash is by donation and is scheduled for May 29th 2010 at 10am (weather permitting). All of the proceeds will go to the SVFA bursary. CLICK HERE
If you have an questions or concerns please feel free to contact me!
Lisa Roberts
Director of the Sasamat Volunteer Firefighters Association
604-469-5810
Dear Editors,
Relative to the depiction of the RCMP in the Michael Buble number in the Closing Ceremonies of the Olympics, I must have the wrong perspective. It was an attempt to show our great Canadian sense of humour. The Mounties in mini-skirts looked pretty nice to me.
VANOC President, John Furlong, apologizes to the RCMP Click Here
Ted Ulmer, Retired RCMP
22-03-10
03-12-2010
Open Letter to CTV,
It seems that only after receiving complaints did you, CTV, decide to locally broadcast live the opening ceremonies of the Paralympics. Why not to the rest of Canada as well? It is deeply disappointing that you choose not to give these dedicated, loyal Canadian athletes the proper respect. You promoted the “I Believe” campaign heavily for months. But what do you believe in? It does not seem to be the spirit of athletics does it?
Your sub-standard treatment of the opening ceremonies, re-enforces the attitude that its okay to marginalize the accomplishments of these athletes, and that people with disabilities are of little consequence. Thank you very much. You, the IOC and any others involved in this backward decision, enjoy your collective shame.
Sincerely
Vince Montgomery,
Coquitlam, BC
A Canadian with a disability
Hi Lynn,
Am I correct in understanding that you have returned as editor of the Alternative..?? If so, hooray! Although I know it's a lot of work, you do a great job!
Cecily Baptist
Co-editor, Belcarra Barnacle
11-03-10
05-03-10
Dear Editors,
Thank you very much for your excellent newspaper. It is newsy, positive, and the photos and links are great.
Jeanette Tannis
Reference: Police ethics adviser quits over sponsors - Concerns over role of companies like Taser International in funding lavish conferences were rebuffed, he says (Globe and Mail)
Dear Editors,
People now want their leaders to walk the talk. Shouldn't those we look to for ethical leadership be held to a higher standard?
I find the above article from the Globe & Mail reveals the truth and at the same time is appalling. There certainly is something wrong with the thought processes of the ' 'ethics specialists' and the hierarchy of police forces to even consider such 'sponsorships' [in such cases it should more correctly be called a bribes]. This organization should be and remain completely free of any involvement with such practices, except when there is an exhibition of associated products, and then only for demonstration purposes, which does NOT include so-called courtesies such as drinks, food, entertainment, etc. They must remain totally removed from such influences. This includes golf tournaments which seems to be a favourite passtime of many police personnel and which is one activity the so-called sponsors gravitate to.
If you or your police force cannot afford for financial or ethics reasons for their attendance so be it -- if you can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen. It is easy to understand the thought processes of merchants who like to have police personnel in their premises for free coffee, etc. as it gives them a feeling of community involvement and in addition a sense of security - at the expense of other such businesses who don't or can't afford, or for ethical reasons, to do the same. Yet they deserve the same service from their police force.
It is easy to understand why police personnel would congregate at the same location for their breaks as they could discuss local issues, etc. hopefully not within the ears of the public. If this was truly the case why then could they not do so at locations where they were expected to pay for their coffee, etc. for which they should have to. Their pay is certainly acceptable; if is not then seek other employment.
There is an adage that justice not only must be done but it must also appear to have been done. [paraphrased]. This same principle is appicable to police work -- it is not their job to criticise the justice system which certainly seems to have its flaws but get on with it and do the work for which you engaged.
I guess what I am saying basically is do your own work as professionally as is possible and quit your bitching and pay your own way.
Submitted by a retired RCMP Member [1952 - 1977] of a Force once so honoured by all.
Ted Ulmer (aka Was Fuzz) 02-03-10
Dear Editors,
In view of the fact that the Anmore Times is unlikely, based on its past behaviour, to post to its website my letter of todays date to the Village Councillors, I am requesting that the Anmore Alternative post the letter to its website. That appears to be the only avenue to ensure that villagers are kept abreast of the issue of continued Village funding of the Times.
Larry Barron, February 22, 2010
For Anmore lawyer, Larry Barron's letter to the Anmore Times Click Here
February 16, 2010
In the wee hours of the morning on February 11th, the Olympic Torch came through the Village of Anmore.
It was followed by a pancake breakfast served to 800 people and an Olympic assembly in the school gym. This
event not only brought many many people out from the Village but three communities that have been at odds.
Anmore, Belcarra and Port Moody have been at loggerheads over many issues over the years, with the Port Moody
recreation fee increase of 110% being the latest issue that has alienated Anmore and Belcarra residents from
their Port Moody neighbours. It was inspiring to see people from all three communities come together and stand
along side each other and welcome the torch, break bread and then listen to the wonderful voices of their
children singing together. The choir and band from Heritage Woods High School played before the running of the torchand the Choir sang at the Anmore Elementary school assembly. Then, the choirs from Pleasantside and Anmore Elementary
The Mayor of Belcarra was there as well as Hal Weinberg, retired Mayor of Anmore. Councillor Kerri Palmer Issak did an absolutely fabulous job of organizing this community event and acting Mayor John McEwen stood tall officiating. School Trustee and Anmore resident Holly Butterfield and School District 43 Assistant Superintendent Sylvia Russell both spoke at the assembly. Over one hundred volunteers did a wonderful job pulling this together.
I did not see Councillors Mario Piamonte and Chris Sedegreen at the community pancake breakfast or the Olympic
assembly at the school. Why? Why were two of our elected officials not at this important gathering of our communities? Were they too scared to eat breakfast with their fellow residents? Why did these two appear to be missing in action? Did they not want to answer questions or be held accountable for their actions in council regarding their refusals to agree to the appointment of an elections officer? Perhaps they were just out in the dark that morning, as they are on most of the issues of our community.
Nicola Iten
Anmore Resident
Editor's Note: While your final paragraph seems to be out of sync with your praise of the power of the Olympics to unify, I thank you for your question. I checked with Councillor Sedergreen who practices family medicine in Anmore. Dr. Sedergreen had a full day of patients booked. Councillor Piamonte was not here. He left Anmore before the five o'clock road closures to start his seven o'clock shift as a volunteer for the French National Team of athletes at the Olympic Village. For photos of the great Olympic Torch celebration in Anmore Click Here. For the Diary of an Anmore Olympic volunteer Click Here. It is too bad that Councillors Piamonte and Sedergreen were unable to join in the fun with the rest of us.
Hi Mr. Barron,
In reference to the Anmore Times - we are not a business. I assume you are aware of the differences between a legal business enterprise and a volunteer community group.
As for the funding the Anmore Times has been granted by the Village of Anmore over the past several years, the Village grant is used to cover the cost of printing any government submissions, including submissions from all councillors if they choose to submit something and the advertising of Village events and notices. Advertising monies are used to pay for letters to the editors and other Village news that we add as content.
The Anmore Times is not a business, it is a community based volunteer organization that has had many, many varied volunteer editors over the years. We welcome all submissions and contributions to the paper. We also welcome all volunteers. The paper can only reflect the contributionsof those that take the time to write something. If someone, such as yourself feels the Anmore Times is only presenting one side, we of course
welcome your side.
From the Community Charter:
Fundamental powers
8 (1) A municipality has the capacity, rights, powers and privileges of a
natural person of full capacity.
(2) A municipality may provide any service that the council considers
necessary or desirable, and may do this directly or through another public
authority or another person or organization.
Sincerely,
Tracy Green
Larry Barron's Response:
Date: February 12, 2010
From: Larry Barron
1908 East Road
Anmore, BC V3H 3C8
To: Tracy Green
Anmore Times
Thanks for your reply, Tracy.
As to the enquiry at the beginning of your email, I think I am aware of the difference between a legal business enterprise and a volunteer community group, but perhaps you could clarify some issues in this regard.
What is the actual legal status of the Anmore Times? ls it an incorporated company? ls it a society created under the society Act? ls it a registered trade name?
As you can appreciate, it is not uncommon for legal business enterprises to have volunteers working on a regular basis. The Vancouver Canucks are a handy example. I suppose that your point is that, even with its ad revenue, the Anmore Times does not make money, and needs the Village grant of $3000 per year to cover out of pocket no labour costs, i.e. disbursements. And, since it is not making any money, and is an all volunteer effort, how can it be a business?
So far as I am aware, whether or not a given entity is deemed a business or not, for purposes of the Local Government Act or the Community Charter, does not depend on whether it relies primarily on volunteers and labels itself a community group.
The February 2010 edition of the Anmore Times consisted of:
1 page Heather Anderson announcement
1/2 page rotary club report
1/2 page congrats to torch runner Tara Beuk with picture
1/2 page ARLA announcements
1/2 page congrats to student James Lively
1½ pages Around Anmore by Linda Weinberg
___
4½
7½ pages ads
3½ pages Darryl Chambers editorial
2½ pages letter to editor
__
6
Hence, just 4½ pages out of 18 were devoted to Village announcements, and not ads and opinions. Surely 4½ such pages could be posted on the Village website each month (or at anytime) for a thousandth of the cost of the $3000 per year the Village currently pays to the Anmore Times.
The Anmore Alternative survives without Village funds. Why must the Anmore Times be publicly funded?
Returning to your proposition that the Anmore Times is not a business and is a volunteer community group, would you be prepared to open your financial records to public perusal in order to confirm that, even after receiving ad revenue and the Village grant of $3000, the Anmore Times was not making any money?
Also, could you tell me when the last time was that the Village Council or administration received confirmation that the Anmore Times has not been making any money. This would seem to be an obvious pre-requisite to granting $3000 year after year.
Sincerely,
Larry Barron
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
From: jody cooke
Sent: February-10-10 10:09 PM
Subject: What is Anmore coming to?
Camille: I've been reading the posts on the Anmore Alternative.
Frankly I am sick and tired of all this crap. What is Anmore coming to. I've been here 17 years and we never had all this bickering amongst our neighbours/community.
You can have ten people read an article or council minutes as in this case and you will get ten different perspectives. It all depends on how someone interprets what they are reading.
As I said before I think you are doing a great job, keep up the good work. I don't see a line up of people offering to help you. -
Jody Cooke.
________________________________________________________________________________________________
From: Frieda Robertson
Date: Feb 10, 2010
Subject: Anmore Times - February Edition
Well, the editorial in Anmore Times has done it again! Once again, I question the editorial integrity of reporting of the minutes of Anmore Council Meeting.
If the residents of Anmore are interested in a particular topic, they can attend the meetings to find out what transpires in the village meeting. If the Anmore Times wishes to publish the minutes, the reporting should provide factual information for the benefit of residents rather than opinion and spin, especially if written from 'Word of Mouth'. Anmore residents are capable of making their own minds up about issues without having their opinions 'shaped' by persons with vested interests.
I would like to remind the residents of Anmore that the Anmore Times receives funding of $3,500 annually from the Village. I do not wish to see my tax dollars spent on "Gossip" columns, especially ones with specific political agendas. As for the rest of the information in the paper, I would say that for the most part, the content is "Old News". For those who want to find out what goes on in the community, the Anmore Official Website should be the portal to provide accurate up-to date information.
As I have stated before, the right thing for the Anmore Times to do would be to repay the Village it’s funding of the publication. It does not represent the sentiments of all the village and probably not even the majority. It is being misused as a propaganda portal specifically directed at certain councillors and against the wishes of a proportion of the residents of the Village and it is doing so using tax payers money. The Village can use these repaid funds to improve it own official website. I notice that the last Minutes posted on the website are from September 02, 2009!!!
This unethical practice should be stopped and I look to ALL councillors to insist on and if possible enforce the repayment.
Frieda Robertson
________________________________________________________________________________________________
From: Robert Schofield
Date: Feb 9, 2010
Subject: RE : Anmore Times - Council Minutes report
This is an open letter to Darryl Chambers.
Pretty simple.
Your job is to report the Anmore Council Minutes.
As a resident of Anmore that is what I look for.
I have previously allowed your personal comments and opinions to slide but I now feel your comment in the February Anmore Times, steps over the line.
Your comments have shown an increasing lack of ability to report the minutes.
It would seem you have become too involved to give an unbiased report.
Do the residents of Anmore, those who wish to read the Anmore Council Minutes, a favour...resign.
R.Schofield
Anmore
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Date: February 9,2010
From: Larry Barron
1908 East Road
Anmore, BC V3H 3C8
To: Village of Anmore
Attn: Council members
This letter is to inform you of my intention to raise two issues during Public Question Period
before the conclusion of the February 9th meeting. They involve:
1) a proposed solution to the dilemma regarding appointment of a Chief Electoral Officer;
and
2) a call for a review of funding for the Anmore Times by the Village since it appears that
funding of that publication violates the Local Government Act and the Community
Charter.
Disclaimers:
- I will not be running for mayor
- Chris Sedergreen is my doctor
- I am on the Village Board of Variance, but have only sat regarding a single application.
- Heather Anderson is Chair of that board, and due to that circumstance I have met her on
two occasions
- I am a lawyer in North Vancouver with some limited experience in municipal law
Chief Electoral Officer
The reply from Minister Bennett means that he is giving the Village another chance to deal with
this issue on its own by allowing a further Council meeting before he steps in. Further, neither
Ms. Cobb, Ms. Warwick, nor Ms. Malloy will be considered by the Minister if he is required to
make an appointment.
The Council is deadlocked, and there must be a mechanism for breaking the deadlock. Hence I
propose:
- Council shall create an Election Committee comprised of the four Councillors plus an odd
number of Villagers to deliberate and recommend to Council a Chief Electoral Officer.
- Although Council cannot legally bind itself beforehand to abide by the recommendation of the
Election Committee (since that would be an illegal delegation of authority), the Councillors will
be bound morally and by force of public approbation to abide by the decision of the Election
Committee.
- lt is suggested that the number of Villagers be 3, 5, or 7 , but no more, since, with the 4
Councillors, the committee would consist of 7 , 9, or 11 members in total. Any more would be
unwieldy.
- Neither Ms. Cobb, Ms. Warwick, nor Ms. Malloy should be considered for the position of Chief
Electoral Officer. A reconsideration would again put Ms. Cobb squarely and unfairly in the
middle of controversy. lt is counter-productive to re-argue the issue; the better course is to
move on. With the number of municipalities in the Lower Mainland alone, it is not reasonably
conceivable that an alternative cannot be found.
Village of Anmore Funding of the Anmore Times
Pertinent Legislation:
Community Charter
General prohibition against assistance to business and exceptions
25 (l) Unless expressly authorized under this or another Act, a council must not provide a grant,
benefit, advantage or other form of assistance to a business, including
(a) any form of assistance referred to in section 24 (1) [publication of intention to provide certain
kinds of assistance], or
(b) an exemption from a tax or fee.
(2) A council may provide assistance to a business for one or more of the following purposes:
(a) acquiring, conserving and developing heritage property and other heritage resources;
(b) gaining knowledge and increasing public awareness about the community's history and
heritage;
(c) any other activities the council considers necessary or desirable with respect to the
conservation of heritage property and other heritage resources.
Local Government Act
176 (l) Subject to the specific limitations and conditions established under this or another Act, the
corporate powers of a board include the following:
(c) to provide assistance for the purpose of benefiting the community or any aspect of the
community;
Prohibition against assistance to business
182 As a limitation on section 176 (1) (c), a board must not provide assistance to an industrial,
commercial or business undertaking.
ln light of the above legislation, I would enquire as to the current legal basis for the funding
currently being provided to the Anmore Times.
Even if, as in the case of Mr. Juvik serving 4 terms on Council based upon a (unknowingly) false
legal position, the funding has been approved in the past, it is now necessary for Council to
review the funding for at least three reasons.
1) I am formally requesting the Village to justify the legal basis of the funding . Prima facie the
Anmore Times does not appear to meet the legal criteria for municipal funding, and hence could
not withstand a cou( challenge in this regard.
2) There are alternatives to any necessary Village communication function formerly provided by
the Anmore Times. Minutes of Council and Committee meetings, and Mayor's and Councillors'
Reports could all be posted on the Village website. For those Villagers who request it, these
documents can be either emailed or snail-mailed to them. The cost would be miniscule in
comparison to funding the Anmore Times to provide these services.
3) ln any event, the Anmore Times is not providing a copy of the Minutes of the Council
meetings. instead, in the February 2010 print issue, rather than publish the official Minutes, and
offer its readers an objective view, the Anmore Times chose instead to publish the self-admitted
"ranting" of Darryl Chambers, an ode to partisanship. One might argue that the Anmore
Alternative is partisan too, but it is not receiving funding from the Village.
Admittedly this letter is short notice of my intention to raise these issues at the meeting on
Tuesday evening, but the very recent publication of the letter from Minister Bennett and the print
issue of February edition of the Anmore Times has forced these concerns to the fore.
Sincerely,
Larry Barron
_____________________________________________________________________________________
From: Denny Arsene
Sent: January-28-10 6:42 PM
To: 'Tracy Green'
Subject: FW: jan 26 meeting notes
Hi Tracy –
I attended the last council meeting this past Tuesday Jan 26 – In reading the summary notes of that council meeting posted on the Anmore Alternatives web site I noticed some important errors as well some variables that were left out and not written about that were important for the public to know – I contacted Camille Tribe (via e-mail) who did these notes and pointed out to her these mistakes and asked her if she could correct them so the residents of Anmore were properly informed – She chose not to do so – I am writing you to see if you can post the below that went to Camille so the residents of Anmore are aware of the truth – I omitted some small talk that is not relative – I left the body of the letter untouched –
This is the 2 time I have tried posting or asked for a correction on the Alternative and have basically be censored by Camille Tribe – Correct me if Im wrong but is the duty of an editor to comprise opinions and not offer bias? Then to exhibit them out so people could determine opinion –
Thanks
Denny Arsene
From: Denny Arsene
Sent: January-28-10 1:18 PM
Subject: jan 26 meeting notes
Hi Camille –
Hope all is well – It was good seeing you and Bob out at the meeting the other day –
I have to say it was really weird that your comments in the parking lot to me after the meeting were somewhat surprising when you made reference to seeing myself at John’s multiple times – I have been asking myself if you spend your days watching all the activity that goes on around John’s house – well in the least he has in you a great “Block Watch” person – I feel sorry for anybody that tries and robs his house –
Anyways back to why Im e-mailing you -
I was just reading your summary notes from the last council meeting on Jan 26 –
I was wondering why you chose not to summarize some important issues that occurred during the meeting –
1 – I see you stated that Councilor Sedergreen made comment to the fact that an In-Camera meeting would resolve the Elections Officer issue –
- I fail to understand why you chose not to write about Heather Anderson’s comments that an In-Camera meeting cannot be executed on these terms
2 – you wrote –
“Administrator Howard Carley, then, presented his report to appoint Margaret Warwich as Chief Election Officer to conduct the Anmore by-election and Christine Milloy as Deputy Chief Election Officer. Councillor Isaak's motion to this effect was defeated. A resolution was, then, passed to discuss this matter at the in-camera meeting of February 9, 2010”
This is totally incorrect – there was NOT a resolution passed to take this In-Camera – This is misleading the public and basically down right INCORRECT – In fact I will re-state once again – Council cannot have an In-Camera meeting to appoint an elections officer – This is in the charter -
It would be nice if you can correct this so the public knows the real truth -
In reading you’re your home page statement –
The Anmore Alternative is based on the belief that a democracy should function in support of the many and not just the few. The Anmore Alternative has been created by concerned citizens to fill a perceived gap in vehicles for effective and uncensored communication in the Village.
It takes two to speak the truth - one to speak and the other to hear. (Henry David Thoreau)
3 – Public question period –
I see no reference to the Anmore resident that read his statement out referring his displeasure of the actions of both Councilor Sedergreen or Councilor Piamonte - ? Don’t you think this is NEWS for the Village – especially when residents are asking them to resign – again I go back to the Alternatives quote “Vehicles for Effective and UNCENSORED communication in the Village” – Correct me if Im wrong - ? Would this not apply –
Im sure you just over looked this variable of the meeting as you were probably busy looking out your window to see if I at John’s house –
As I go through the Alternative it states many issues concerning other councilors that you took the liberty to expose but you fail to do in my opinion for Councilor Sedergreen and Councilor Piamonte – ? Does this not smell of bias -
Im not looking for a debate here – Im asking you to be fair and follow your Mission Statement –
As always – Coffee is always hot / a great selection of teas and the beer is cold and wine is chilled – drop by anytime -
Thanks
Denny
Editor's Response:
I am responding to Denny Arsene's email message sent to Tracy Green on January 28, 2010, whereby he forwarded her an email that had been sent to me on January 28, 2010. This same email was published in the February edition of the Anmore Times. I had refused to publish it.
Now, I will provide my reasons:
1. I notice that Mr. Arsene says in his email to Ms. Green that "I omitted some small talk that is "not relative". Oh yes, some "small talk" was omitted. But, what Mr. Arsene neglects to say is that this small talk was inflammatory and insulting to me. I have highlighted in pink (see above comments highlighted in pink) the "small talk" about which he speaks. How are such deragatory comments "not relative" (word usage, perhaps, relevant?).
We must include all the information, not just edited bits. Was it not considered that the reason why I refused to publish Mr Arsene's email was his personal insults upon me? After all, I did email him back and tell him, "I am sorry, but I will not waste my time responding to insults."
We are obligated to report all the facts contained in an email - not just edited ones that can change the message’s whole dynamics.
As well, this was not the first time that I have been insulted by Mr. Arsene in an email. On December 16, 2009, Mr Arsene wrote an email to me that began with these words, "I don't understand what you mean word file page 28 / 29 - Its on the anmore web site - I even gave my young son the same directions I have e-mailed you and he navigated to the info you find it so challenging to locate -"
After receiving this email, I spoke to Tracy Greene on the telephone about this issue and she stated that did not blame me for not publishing Mr. Arsene’s email after him insulting me so.
2. Mr. Arsene also states “Administrator Howard Carley, then, presented his report to appoint Margaret Warwich as Chief Election Officer to conduct the Anmore by-election and Christine Milloy as Deputy Chief Election Officer. Councillor Isaak's motion to this effect was defeated. A resolution was, then, passed to discuss this matter at the in-camera meeting of February 9, 2010”
"This is totally incorrect – there was NOT a resolution passed to take this In-Camera – This is misleading the public and basically down right INCORRECT – In fact I will re-state once again – Council cannot have an In-Camera meeting to appoint an elections officer – This is in the charter -
It would be nice if you can correct this so the public knows the real truth -"
If Mr. Arsene had paid more attention to what was stated in my Report on Anmore Council Regular Meeting of January 26, 2010, he would notice that I used the word "discuss" not "appoint". This makes a huge difference. The resolution was, indeed, passed to "discuss" this issue at an in-camera meeting on February 9, 2010. I have listened to a recording to this effect; and, thus am correct in making this statement.
I am and all members of Council are perfectly aware that Council cannot appoint an Elections Officer in an in camera meeting, but they certainly can discuss the issue and, then, pass a resolution appointing a Chief Elections Officer at the next public council meeting.
With this in mind, I do not need to "correct this so the public knows the real truth". They have already been provided with the"real truth".
3. Mr. Arsene states that " I fail to understand why you chose not to write about Heather Anderson’s comments that an In-Camera meeting cannot be executed on these terms."
Once again, if Mr. Arsene paid closer attention to what was written in my report, he would have seen that I did not include any comments made by any members of the public at the January 26th meeting. I chose not to do so. Heather Anderson's comment was not the only one that was omitted.
If Mr. Arsene cares to remember he would have noticed that I also chose not to include two rather pointed comments made to the Chair by residents Elaine Willis and Robert Tribe during this meeting.
4, Mr. Arsene also states, "This is the 2 time I have tried posting or asked for a correction on the Alternative and have basically be censored by Camille Tribe – Correct me if Im wrong but is the duty of an editor to comprise opinions and not offer bias? Then to exhibit them out so people could determine opinion –"
An editor has no obligation to print everything sent to them. I refuse to publish many emails on a daily basis as I may consider them to be in poor taste, self-serving, demeaning and/or expressing vested self interest(s) or just plain "nonsense", i.e., lacking common sense. All newspaper editors pick and chose what they wish to publish. Ever try to tell the Vancouver Sun that they must publish your article? They will only do so if they chose to do so.
The Anmore Alternative receives no public funding nor income from other sources such as advertisement. It is completely paid for out of the pockets of private individuals.
And, as for the statement, "It is the duty of an editor to comprise (does Mr. Arsene, perhaps, mean "compile" not "comprise" - word usage?) opinions and not offer bias", this is laughable. All we need to do is read published articles by other editors or those reporting minutes of meetings (even by those who did not attend such meetings) to see that they are full of bias.
The definition of an editor is "a person responsible for the editorial aspects of publication; the person who determines the final content of a text." As well, an editorial relates to "an article stating opinions or giving perspectives".
Camille Tribe, Editor
February 8, 2010
________________________________________________________________________________________________
This sure mimics East Road in Anmore, B.C. Although they had resurfaced most of it but had left one of the worst parts in favour of resurfacing that portion closest to the intersection of East Road and Sunnyside Road -- why I don't know. Many things Anmore does baffles me and most citizens.
Ted Ulmer
Road Crew
The road by my house was in bad condition. Every day I dodged potholes on the way to work, so I was relieved to see a construction crew working on the road one morning.
Later, on my way home, I noticed the men were gone and no improvement in the road. But where the crew had been working stood a new, bright-yellow sign with the words "Rough Road."
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Subject: Letter to the Editor
Dear Camille,
This letter is to thank all of the hard working Beavers, Cubs, and Scouts and their leaders who cheerfully lugged away all of our holiday bottles on Sunday.
What a great way to launch the New Year with a decluttered garage. Hurrah!
Lynn Burton
________________________________________________________________________________________________
From: Mark Obedzinski
Date: Jan 7, 2010
Subject: our election
To: editors@anmorealternative.com, sblais@thenownews.com, spayne@tricitynews.com
Cc: tracy@greenhands.ca
Please post in your next letter to the editor.
Is this what democracy has come to. Our democratically elected officials show they have the right to make decisions that effect our elections and refuse to comment on the decisions when questioned by the constituents that elected them. How is this council able to address our concerns as constituents if they will not answer our questions. These actions reflect a dictatorship not a democracy. As a anmore resident I am appalled by our elected officials behaviour in there representation of our village to the constituants and to our nabouring communities
A very disappointed,
Mark Obedzinski
Anmore Resident
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Letter to the Editor, Cultural Olympiad Promises a Night of INSANITY, Submitted by J. Peachy - Click Here _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
From: KERRI ISAAK
Date: Dec 27, 2009
Subject: Re: RE: Editorial in Anmore Times - December edition
This was an item of discussion at the Finance Committee meeting held just before the holidays. You may want to have a look at the min. of that meeting. We discussed the clause you are referring to in your letter. I have yet to hear of a non- profit being supported by performance bonds or personal guarantees.
I do not have all of the answers for the daycare, I would argue that no one does. We do have a diverse group of Villagers that have come forward to form a committee and offer their advice and experience. Perhaps you should have offered to join the daycare committee thereby guiding the process and limiting the perceived potential risk to Villagers, the Village can always use helpful volunteers.
We also have a very good model already in our Village (it has always been exceptionally financially sound) and I am hoping that with some effort and creativity we will have another successful non-profit center to serve our community.
Thanks for your input, Kerri
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
From: Frieda Robertson
Date: Dec 22, 2009
Subject: RE: Editorial in Anmore Times - December edition
Dear Councillor Palmer-Isaak,
Thank you for responding to my correspondence. I note your sentiments in your first paragraph about an unbiased Anmore Times being a reflection of the Community and will politely agree to differ.
In your second paragraph you suggest that we should ‘stick to the facts’. I’m afraid I’m not sure that you are doing so yourself when you suggest people should not be scaring the public with words like ‘liability’, when that is exactly what the facts are.
May I quote from the Village of Anmore’s official Funding Agreement (#CO78100114), section 3.10;
‘For a Project for which the Province is providing Funding under this Agreement of over $300,000, regardless of whether the Recipient is renovating existing leased space or whether the Recipient owns the Child Care facility, the Recipient will continue the Child Care Operation for a minimum of ten years from the date of issuance of a New Licence.’
My understanding of the above, (my I use the word ‘fact’) is that we, (the Recipient) are liable for any child care facility for up to ten years, should those well meaning people starting the venture decide to shut it down after 3 months, say for lack of revenue. If my interpretation is totally misguided, I would be happy to be advised. Hopefully that is not too political.
In my letter yesterday I wrote of ‘possible liability’ in respect of the Child Care facility and for a good reason. The Village could avert liability by placing a Performance Bond on any intended operator of a Child Care facility, unfortunately I suspect the insurance costs would make attendance fees so expensive that it would probably never open its doors. Alternatively a rock solid personal guarantee might suffice, (i.e. someone’s un-mortgaged private home that they could not sell for ten years). But those details are for the Council to agree upon. My concern is that my fellow residents are made aware of their very real liability if due diligence is not exhibited by all the Council, (I have enough faith that at least two Councillors are exhibiting that caution but am yet to be persuaded by the rest). That aside, please recall the community's wishes at the last referendum was to abandon the concept of a child care/community centre facility.
I also cannot agree with your last paragraph. Whilst it is regrettable that we have moved into a litigious world at the detriment of good neighbourliness, if people are intimidated for being honest and doing their job diligently, then perhaps the legal system is the only course open to them besides abdication.
May I also wish you the Season's Greetings.
Frieda Robertson
___________________________________________________________________________________________
From: KERRI ISAAK
Sent: December-22-09 4:35 PM
Subject: Re: Editorial in Anmore Times - December edition
The only thought I will offer on this topic is that in my experience the Times attempts to run, with some size limitations, all items that are submitted. When the public tires of an issue it tends not to be revisited. I think all contributions from Villagers should be printed as long as they fall within in legal bounds. The articles ( good / bad and otherwise) are a reflection of the community.
I caution all not to be spreading misinformation. The liability of the Village for the daycare is a topic that is a constant source of misinformation. I feel that members of the community are " playing " the public by trying to scare them with words like liability. What if we were to just stick with the facts? Not terribly political but it would be helpful to Villagers.
As for all of these promises of court action, we are starting to sound like our neighbors to the South and that is certainly not something I am wishing for.
Happy Holidays all,
Kerri
__________________________________________________________________________________________
From: Tracy Green
Subject: Re: Editorial in Anmore Times - December edition
Dear Ms. Robertson,
As I stated before, my article was merely intended to bring to light one particular issue that has arisen in our Village recently. If you are concerned about the other issues you mentioned, there are many related articles for you to read or post to on the Anmore Times web site site and we welcome resident comments and contributions.
I would like to correct you on your comments about the Anmore Times:
The Anmore Times web site receives absolutely NO funding from a Village grant, taxpayer subsidies, or advertising. The Anmore Times web site is hosted for free by my company, and the nominal fee of $10 per year for domain registration is also donated. No information posted on the Anmore Times web site is taxpayer funded.
The paper edition of the Anmore Times does receive a yearly grant from the Village of Anmore. We are also sponsored through community advertising. The grant is intended to pay for the pages that the Village of Anmore uses. This includes notices, councillor submissions, and community events. As an example, the Village of Anmore utilized 7 full pages in the December 2009 edition. Paid advertising covers the costs of printing all non-village related items such as opinion pieces submitted by residents, letters to the editor, editorials, etc.
My hope is that the Anmore Alternative would post this email alongside your email, so we could have an opportunity to clarify this item. I think a healthy exchange of opinions and ideas is a good thing for our Village and appreciate that we may have differing opinions, that's what makes us a community.
All the best to you and a very Merry Christmas.
Sincerely,
Tracy Green
Online Editor
Anmore Times
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Dear Tracy,
I note the continued debate on legal action between Mr Asrene and Dr Sedergreen which Mr Arsene wishes to perpetuate in his comments on the matter, as well as those comments from Ms Leah Weinberg. All highly regrettable and I believe misleading to the residents of Anmore.
1) Both suggest that Dr Sedergreen’s legal action towards Mr Arsene as an attempt to intimidate public debate. Reading both lawyers letters, which Mr Arsene has kindly submitted, I don’t see anything suggesting limiting his rights as a citizen to question any council member. What I do read is that he was being warned about being defamatory. That is not the same thing.
2) What I do note is Mr Arsene’s relentless attacks on Councillor Sedergreen and Piamonte for doing what I believe to be their job. That is, manage our affairs responsibly. Mr Arsene has in the past tried to suggest Councillor Piamonte’s volunteer work in our fire department might question his eligibility to sit as a Councillor and recently he has tried to embarrass Councillor Sedergreen by demanding an apology for what might have been Councillor Sedergreen’s ability to uncover the truth.
I stand by my question to the Editor. Should you, as a Community Paper be unbiased and avoid sensationalist journalism. I would also ask the following questions in a rhetorical way;
a) Who advised Mayor Trasolini of the comments made by Councillor Sedergreen? Do we have a mole in our village? If so, that would be against the interests of the Community of Anmore. Let Port Moody do its own investigative work without having a mole in our midst who may be more interested in damaging an individual than looking after the interests of the Community.
b) Are we as a Community, really at risk of any legal action by Port Moody? Does not Parliamentary Privilege extend to all our Councillors when they express an opinion in Council Meetings? Is the threat of legal action and possible subsequent costs being borne by the Village not just ‘fear mongering’ in an attempt to discredit Councillor Sedergreen?
c) Is all this nonsense not just a red herring to steer people away from the REAL issues which I see as an actual and real liability of the village for the failed Renewable Energy project and the possible liability of the village for any day care centre that could fail in the future? If you are in the business of undertaking investigative journalism, then do it right now. Please do us all a service and inform your readers about Anmore’s real liability in regard of the above issues.
I stand by my comments; I believe the Anmore Times have presented a biased view of events with sensationalist journalism. Considering that we, as tax payers, are funding the Anmore Times, I am not happy that my taxpayer’s money is being (further) wasted by funding a politically one-sided paper. As Mr Arsene points out, we are all entitled to an opinion. But you do not have to pay for me to have an opinion and I certainly don’t want to pay for a one sided political publication that does not represent my side of the equation. The right thing for the Anmore Times to do would be to repay the Village it’s funding of the publication and then they can hold whatever opinion you wish.
Frieda Robertson
December 21, 2009
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hi Camille,
Thank you for providing us a good source of community news. I was wondering if you have a copy of the report on the last Finance Committee Meeting? If you do, could you please share it with us? I enjoy reading your editorials, and the news sections on different activities/events in Anmore.
Best regards,
Frieda Robertson
December 20, 2009
Response From the Editor:
Frieda,
Many thanks for your kind words.
I did not attend the last Finance Committee meeting; thus, I did not write my separate report.
However, as soon as I get a copy of the minutes I will post. They send me a copy when the Village receives theirs.
Have a great holiday season!
Camille Tribe
778-285-2245
_________________________________________________________________________________________
On Dec 3, 2009, John McEwen wrote:
Editor of the Anmore Alternative,
It has been brought to my attention from several residents that follow the
Anmore Alternative web site of some recent inaccuracies. As stated in the
report from Council of the Dec 1st 2009 meeting;
- In reference to Councilor Piamonte open letter to council, letters from
both Councilor Issak and myself were read that took exception to comments
made, and offer clarity. " I have included mine in the attachment within."
This was brought up during Business arising from the Minutes and not under
Councilor reports as indicated under your report.
- In reference to Councilor McEwen's support for retaining the stop signs
this too is not entirely true, as ALL of Council voted in favor of their
erection to ensure safety and control speeds along the East Road Corridor.
It should also be noted as commented at the recent Council Meeting of Dec
1st that All of Council voted that they be removed at the earliest
convenience upon other means being available to ensure the safety for all
the residences of the Village and negate any liability towards to the
Village.
Myself and The Public Works, Parks, Transportation Committee have focused
solely on the safety of this corridor and have spent a great deal of time
discussing and debating this issue and coming forth with a decision that
meets the needs of the Village as a whole.
Hopefully the comments above will assist you in making concise unbiased
Council Meeting Reports
Councilor John McEwen
Response From the Editor:
Dear Councillor McEwen,
I wish to respond to each of your points.
1. I made reference in my report that both you and Councillor Issak read a prepared speech in response to Councillor Piamonte's Open Letter. This is a true statement. Since I was not given a copy of your prepared response, I was not able to include it in my report. However, since you have now supplied me with one, I will now post it.
2. I apologize that I included this information under Councillor Reports rather than Business Arising from the Minutes. However, since the information was accurate, having mentioned it under the wrong heading seems of minor significance.
3. In reference to your statement of your support for retaining the stop signs, I was only reporting the facts and not talking about previous reasons for erecting the stop signs. I was simply stating what you said during of the meeting of December 1, 2009: i.e., that you still supported the maintenance of the stop signs.
4. I realize that all of Council voted to remove the stop signs at the earliest convenience to ensure the safety for all the residents of the Village. However, this does not still negate the fact that no Councillor seconded Councillor Piamonte's motion to remove the contentious stop signs by January 15, 2010, even though at least 20-residents in the audience were clearly in support of this motion being passed.
5. I realize that the Public Works, Parks, Transportation Committee has focused solely on the safety of the Corridor and have spent a great deal of time discussing and debating this issue. For this, as a resident of Anmore, I thank-you. However, again, it still does not negate the fact that during public discussion period over this debate, the public have overwhelmingly been in favour of removing the stop signs.
6. I take pride in writing concise, articulate, unbiased Council Meeting Reports. I can only report the facts as they are stated and presented during the meetings.
Sincerely,
Camille Tribe, Editor
December 3, 2009
Councillor McEwen's Response to Councillor Piamonte's Open Letter - Click Here
17 Letters to the Editor re "Koji" and "The Joys of Having Pets" - Click Here
Letter to the Editor, "Hi Mossom Friends', Submitted by Ruth Foster - Click Here
Letter to the Editor from Lynn Burton, November 17, 2009 - Click Here
Letter to the Editor from Holly Koit, November 7, 2009 - Click Here
Letter to the Editor from Ruth Foster, November 8, 2009 - Click Here
Letter to the Editors from Mercy delas Penas 04-11-09 Click Here
Letter to the Editor from Port Moody Mayor Trasolini copied to the Editors of the Anmore Alternative News 29-10-09 Click Here
Response to Mayor Trasolini's letter from Rob Lilley of the Anmore Green Strata Council 02-11-09 Click Here
2009 October 31
Dear Editors:
Thank you for the Anmore Alternative News. You have shown our community how we can make a difference.
Please find attached my letter, read at the Regular Council meeting October 27, 2009. When I addressed Mayor and Council, I told them I was upset by what happened October 13 relative to Councillor Piamonte's volunteer efforts as a First Responder for the Sasamat Volunteer Fire Department, and wanted to write to them to express my concerns. It was difficult for me to do so. I am not a public speaker. It took me most of the week, and several edits to arrive at something I felt I could submit.
My first letter was a knee-jerk reaction to what had been said during the October 13 meeting. I took the time to walk away, then come back, and redo my letter. If I had submitted what was originally written, it would have been as bad as the antics at the meeting that prompted me to write to Mayor and Council in the first place.
It was ironic the Garden Club made a presentation October 13, as I used their funding proposal as an example of how difficult it was to determine the value of volunteering. Unfortunately, the Garden Club made the decision to return their approved funding to the Village, and withdraw volunteering at Spirit Park. They left Council chambers, with other members of the public, in a united show of support. Only the non-Garden Club members of the public returned for the remainder of the meeting. It was also ironic that outbursts were kept to a minimum, and order was maintained. I hope this is a positive sign.
I read Elaine Willis’ most recent letter to the editor. I hope others will read what she has submitted, and follow some of her examples. The time has come for us to work together, as a community, and to focus on making positive changes. Anmore has so much to offer. It is time to extol Anmore’s marvels.
Sincerely yours,
Donna Webber
Editor's Note: Although I attend most meetings of Council, I was unable to attend the October 6 Finance Committee Meeting. I think you were probably one of the few people actually there and I can only refer to official minutes to understand what transpired to cause the Garden Club to give back their funding in protest. For those, like myself who were unable to attend, here is what the minutes say:
It was Moved and Seconded
"That the Finance Committee recommends that a grant of $1000 be bestowed upon the Anmore Garden Club."
VOTE: 4 for /2 opposed
Dears Editors
As a child my sensitive nature caused me to cringe at the mere elevation of tone when arguments began to escalate. At the age of 55, I have recovered some from this response, but only to the point where I have developed strategies to attempt to prevent this behaviour in others.
What is it that we all desire in our community? It would be my best guess that for many of us, and, I believe, for all of our children that PEACE is very high on the list. Being caught in petty divisive conflicts definitely will kill the spirit of community, the spirit of neighborliness and increase hostility…the stuff of war. I, for one, do not want to participate.
I have a very dear friend whose political stripe is quite different from my own, yet we share more similarities than we do differences. Our values coincide on important issues. If I drew a Venn diagram, there would be so many things in the intersection. Amongst those important shared beliefs would be PEACE, integrity, kindness, community spirit, charity, environmental activism and so much more. And what I cherish most is that we can land on opposite sides of a debate with no animosity because we debate ideas. There is nothing personal about those beliefs we don’t share. We both celebrate diversity. Isn’t this the community you want to live in?
Conflict resolution is a modern name for processes and strategies to allow individuals and groups of people to work together peacefully. It allows ideas to be heard without personalizing the content. It allows the ideas to be separated from the personalities. It, in fact, allows the business to carry on where people can disagree and continue to be friends and to be friendly.
Ancient wisdom tells us, “everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Modern conflict management tells us that active listening means we are not planning our own rebuttals while the other person is speaking. It tells us not to choose a side, to be black or white on an issue but to be purposely neutral while listening, open to the content and context of any words. With practice, one can separate one’s ideas about the person, what they may have said or done before from what they are saying at this moment. This is a true openness, without judgment – that is required to be a good listener.
To be a good speaker one needs to avoid using judgmental terms and insults, body language that shows disdain for others, and attempt to discuss ideas rather than the people who present them.
I offer some strategies for those of you who share with me a desire for PEACE. Here are some basic CONFLICT RESOLUTION strategies:
- Establish and follow standards of behavior
- Avoid using the word “YOU” in debate
- Develop respectful responses to disrespectful behavior.
- Listen with respect and respond with care.
- Stick to issues and avoid gossip
- Use empathetic responses
- Count to 10. Use silence to increase calm. It’s valuable to “leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.”
- Speak from the “same side of the table.” (find points of agreement)
- Tangible reminders to respond appropriately. (notes, cues from a colleague)
- Build credibility with language and actions
- Give people a way out. Establish choices.
- Refuse the win-lose perspective.
Editor's Comment::Thank you Elaine. Your very thoughtful and caring letter reminds me of a time when my daughter was a teenager. I overheard her talking to my mother about a distressing situation where some bullies were picking on her close friend. My daughter asked her grandmother "What happens when good people do bad things?" My wise and kindly mother responded "Well they aren't good any more are they?"
28-10-09
Hello Dr. Burton,
Thank you for the opportunity to chat this afternoon. I know you must have
been busy with your grandson + cupcake endeavour so close to Halloween!
Please find attached a copy of the Anmore Garden Club's letter which was
written and edited enmasse by the members, and read out loud at the October
27th Council meeting.
If I may, I would like to reiterate that most members, such as myself, were
not upset by "the need to be accountable for our spending". (Report on
October 27/09 Council meeting - Anmore Alternative). I fully agree with the
Councillors of Anmore seeking accountability and welcome their direction.
As a member of the Garden club, I was hoping that our budget request with
attached detailed budget plans illustrated our devotion to accountability.
In fact, the group was upset with the mocking of budget as well as the
mocking of our volunteer efforts at the Finance Committee meeting on October
6th. This above all fueled the decision to return all funds, and for me -
especially if there was any question of irresponsible spending.
Thank you again for providing such a positive, well informing website to
browse. I look forward to meeting you in person very soon.
Sincerely,
Leigh Scatchard
For Garden Club letter to mayor and council Click Here
26-10-09
Good afternoon, Lynn,
We met at Donna's party last Thursday while you were taking pictures of the bears including my mom's BlueBear. I've been perusing your website today and have thoroughly enjoyed myself! I'll certainly be checking in often and may even submit a joke or article: there's a distinct shortage of laughter in the world and I'm just tickled pink that you seem to understand that.
With regards to the future of your website, as we say in French, 'Merde' ('Break a leg' in English) !
J.
PS I work up at SFU in the FASS Dean's office and after reading your bio and realizing how much of your distinguised career was spend here, I plan on name-dropping mercilessly!
Editor's Note: Thank you for your kind comments. Without the support of the community the Anmore Alternative News would sit quietly gathering dust. It is all of the excellent contributors and the faithful readers that truly make it special. Welcome aboard! We look forward to your contributions.
22-10-09
Dear Editors,
Reading the Report on Council Meeting notes for October 13 2009 proved quite interesting. Mr. Arsene had a question about the UBMC resolution on the eligibility of GVRD employees to serve on municipal government, in particular Councillor Piamonte's volunteer service as a SVFD First Responder ( to that point Howard Carley reinforced that the "Village solicitor had been consulted and saw no impediment to Councilor Piamonte serving on Council" ) Oh...it seems we may need solicitors to tell us if its OK to volunteer!!! ?
It should be noted that Councillor Piamonte was elected in a democratic election, remember that one...the one that seemed to have its own issues as well ? Have we come to the point that Councillors ( all Councillors ) heck, even the Mayor and staff, must list, make available ALL past, present and potential future jobs, work, volunteer positions, memberships, etc that may or may not conflict with what goes on in Anmore? Must we question your status BEFORE we ask the question or appoint you to the task so we can decide if you are in conflict or not?
What exactly was, has or is Councilor Piamonte in conflict with? Being elected by the residents of Anmore or volunteering for whatever is his right to volunteer for? Trying to make an issue out of something that is not an issue ( note Howard Carley and the Village solicitor reference ) is simply a waste of time...maybe Mr. Arsene should spend some time as a volunteer, instead of complaining about those who do.
R. Schofield
Anmore resident
Ma Murray volunteer
SVFD volunteer
18-10-09
Dear Editors,
This morning I found a bear had opened my freezer which is located on my deck and was still inside it. I poked my cane at it as it would not scare away and it growled and came at me with bared teeth. I had no choice but to persist and finally it went away. It was quite an experience. The bear was new to me. It was about 4 or 5 years old and was dark brown in colour. When it left it reluctantly went north on Pipeline road while looking back periodically. It certainly wasn't any of the bears that usually visit me and which are always welcome. I have a hunch this animal will return, unfortunaterly.
Ted Ulmer
18-10-09 (a little later in the day)
Hi folks.
I neglected to mention that I very highly recommend that you do not take the action that I did or any other action for that matter. The animals have priority. When the bear turned on me I was immediately concerned [that is a moderate way of expressing it] but I was committed to a course of action
for my safety. You can bet your life on that -I was committed when the animal turned on me but had no option but to continue. Would I do it again? No way!!!!! The distance between the cane and the attacking bear is extremely short and it became a lot shorter in a matter of seconds. Was I concerned? You are darned right I was!!!
The bear and two siblings have just returned and I scared them off but certainly not with my cane and not within close proximity . They were persistent but evenually did go - for now. They are in beautiful condition. They are actually beautiful animals and I would hate to see anything happen to them. I couldn't use my bear bangers in this enclosed area. I just had a visit by the cinnamon bear [now a medium brown bear still with the yellow tag on her left ear] with two year old cubs who are fighting between themselves on pipeline road and the sow doesn't seem to care. It seems that I will have a number of bear visitors to deal with. It is difficult to watch the football games as the bears keep coming back. coming back. coming back.
Ted Ulmer.
16-10-09
Dear Editors,
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! For details Click Here Elaine Willis
16-10-09
Dear Editors,
I thought you might like to put the following link to the US Center for
Disease Control on the Anmore Alternative News web site:
It provides regularly updated information on H1N1 virus (Swine Flu).
Sincerely
Chris Sedergreen, MD
15-10-09.
Dear Editors
Whilst the voices in dissent at the Town Hall meeting on Daycare were few, I have spoken to neighbours and friends in the Village and many either could not attend or were tired of the argument, which should have been resolved at the referendum and feel let down by council and the protracted fixation with this singular topic. From those who are willing to talk to me on the subject, I could not find any support.
I would emphasize again, I am not against a Day Care Centre per se, I'm against wooly-minded thinking where 'need to have' against 'wish list' gets confused. If we could accommodate everyone, (Village Hall, Roads, Community Centre, Day Care Centre) and stay within sensible financial constraints, I would be the first to sign on. If we can't, then we need to prioritise. Please feel free to print my attached statement on the issue in the 'Alternative'. Click Here
Andrew Robertson
Hi Everyone,
Our Anmore Block Watch Programme is really starting to work. Apparently, the West's was not the only vehicle that was broken into last evening. Many thanks to the West's, Froese's and Cordick's for being such excellent neighbours and reporting criminal and/or bear activity in our area. With all of us working together, we make a wonderful, safer community. Again, many thanks for sharing this information with everyone. For Fan Out details Click Here
Sincerely,
Camille Tribe
778-285-2245
15-10-09
Mr. Rosen and Council,
This has gone too far! You have all been copied on all my emails regarding the connection of Anmore Green Estates(AGE) to the Port Moody sewer system via the Anmore Middle School over the past 12 months. Your latest September 16th and October 8th Reports on "Proposed Middle School Sanitary Service", regarding the Application to the GVSDD for the Village of Anmore is subversive and prejudiced. You are well aware that we have been vocally fighting for this for over ten years now and yet you specifically recommended to Anmore Council that the SD43 Middle school as the boundary to be included in a Specified Sewer Area. What I can't understand is how and/or why Anmore Council passed this motion? Nor can I understand why AGE was not contacted during the summer when staff representatives from SD43, Port Moody, GVRD and Anmore were involved in discussions? Have none of you received the incessant emails that I have been sending you requesting such a dialog?
Had you contacted AGE first we could have shared our information and efforts. Regardless, as you have found out, the GVRD repeated the same conclusions to you (and recently to Port Moody) as they told us when we approached them in June 2007; that Anmore and Port Moody must first reach a formal agreement to share sewer services.
This issue will NOT go away. Our sewerage system is still at risk of failure and with two schools within 100m, our children, our health, and our environment could be in danger. All 50 owners have always been willing to provide the necessary capital costs for this connection. We will not allow a Middle School to be built in our backyards unless we are included in the same Specified Sewer Area that the Middle School is to be included in for Port Moody.
As part of the massive amount of support on this issue during the March 2009 Anmore Middle School Public Hearing and subsequent Covenants, it is imperative that a representative of Anmore Green Estates (Strata LMS3080) be included in ANY and ALL details regarding this matter in the future.
Please include this in the Anmore Council agenda for the next council meeting. I will be there as will all of Anmore Green Estates!
Sincerely,
Robert Lilley
Secretary - Strata LMS3080
604-469-2277
Editor's Note: There has been a flurry of responses to a list of recipients of Mr. Lilly's letter, including the Anmore Alternative News Editors. Since the letters were generally addressed to the list of recipients as a whole, we were uncertain as to whether or not you wanted them published. If you do, please address them directly to the Editors@anmorealternative.com.
15-10-09
Please publish this.
Dear Minister Shea
Today, Barry Rosenberger, B.C. Interior area director for the DFO's Pacific region, is quoted in The Record: there has not been a salmon collapse in the Fraser,while this year's sockeye return is the lowest in 50 years, Rosenberger said, they've rebuilt stocks from worse cases in the past.
On the same day Stephen Hume published DFO sockeye numbers to date throughout the Fraser River in the Vancouver Sun including: Nechako River System “ forecast 374,000......counted “ 71 fish
Many creeks were zero.
This is a collapse, these runs cannot rebuild.
This is third in a string of extremely misleading statements made by your department on the Fraser sockeye.We need all of you under oath. There must be a judicial inquiry. This behavior is immoral.
Alexandra Morton
Dear Editors,
This story is just in time for Halloween. I understand that "a teacher from Ohio has won top honors in a pumpkin-growing contest with a 1,725-pound behemoth that could land worldwide bragging rights. Christy Harp of Jackson Township near Canton took first place at the Ohio Valley Giant Pumpkin Growers annual weigh-off Saturday in Canfield. She won $2,500 and could claim the world title.Contest organizers say the entry topped the 1,689-pound record-holder grown in 2007 by Joe Jutras of North Scituate, R.I. The seeds from Harp's winning pumpkin will be dried and given to anyone who asks." Contact Alan Gibson Click Here
Ted Ulmer (11-10-09)
Editor's Note: Howard Dill, Canada's Pumpkin King, passes away May 28, 2008 at the age of 73 Click Here
08-10-09
Dear Editors,
The Hindsight Years was recently spotlighted on page 3 of The Richmond News. A relatively small paper, but the ball is rolling.... so much was discussed in the telephone interview, and ultimately he made no mention of some important facts; how to donate, tax deductible status, and the role of BCAS. Oh well, I've seen reporters mulch the facts in these local things!
I would very much appreciate it if you could highlight this story and help me get the news out. Thank you so much.
Sincerely Glenn Ter Borg
Editor's Note: Anmore resident Elaine Willis is the subject of one of the series of documentary films produced by Mr. Ter Borg for the BC Ataxia Society. Please scroll down the page to link to the video Click Here.
Hello everyone:
Please find attached a news bulletin re a Vietnamese refugee family who arrived in Toronto last week under our "Freedom at Last" Project. Click Here
Best regards,
Can
(Can D. Le, Vietnamese Canadian Federation)
October 6, 2009
Hi Lynn:
STELLA WAS FOUND TODAY.!!!!. She has gone to the vet for a check up. She wasn't hurt, just tired , hungry and HAPPY!
Would it be possible to put a found banner on the ad? So many people helped us and we are all very very grateful!
A big thank you!
Carol Palfrey
Associate Broker
Macdonald Realty
2105 West 38 th
Vancouver BC
V6M 1R8
604 818 7422 cell
604 254 4483 fax
With reference to Ted Ulmer's message about Cinnamon Bear and her triplets, (Click here and scroll down) we also chose not to report them as they did run off with us just yelling at them and it was very interesting to see her with multi-coloured cubs. The cubs seemed awfully young for this time of year, I would have expected them to be much larger - so I assume they were a late birth. The little brown one seems to be the straggler of the 3 and so cute but we will have to add more deodorizers to disguise the smell in our lock up so they do not return or someone will end up calling the authorities and it would be a shame.
Yvonne L. Robertson
05-10-09
06-10-09
Dear Editors,
Mossom Creek Hatchery received a generous donation from Anmore resident Tracy Green. A small fundraiser initiated by an interest in her water
bottles resulted in Tracy donating the entire raised amount as a donation.
The entire $88.00 raised by selling the water bottles was donated by
Tracy. A big thanks to this Anmore resident who is always putting in a
helpful hand.
Elaine Willis
Treasurer
Burrard Inlet Marine Enhancement Society
Dear Editors,
Something very important happened at the Anmore Council meeting on Tuesday night. The young people of Anmore spoke up to defend a wild space near their home and they were supported by a whole neighbourhood of caring adults.
Both young speakers, Isaac and Morgan, are keen helpers at the Mossom Creek Hatchery where I also volunteer. Although I am not an Anmore resident, I came to support them. Helping young folk to know and love nature is something I enjoy and something I believe is hugely important.
A growing body of research has shown that we are losing our direct connections with nature and this has raised alarm bells for the future of wilderness areas. After all, we only care about what we know about. In addition, there are alarm bells ringing about what is being lost in terms of developmental richness for our kids.
Richard Louv’s contemporary book, Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder, is an eloquent and well documented best-seller. It examines the pivotal role that a connection with nature plays in the growth of children. His writing has sparked an international movement, The Nature and Child Connection, and it has become the impetus for numerous initiatives all of which relate to the fundamental finding that playing in nature makes for healthier, happier and smarter kids.
Congratulations to Isaac and Morgan and the neighbourhood delegation that came and spoke out about their beloved pocket forest. The warm reception they received suggests that their message was heard and that their action was not in vain. Let’s hear it for kids and wild places!
Ruth Foster, 23-09-09
Editor's Note: So eloquently stated, Ruth. With passionate role models like yourself, these young environmental activists will surely make this world a much better place for all of us. For a link to information about Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder Click Here
22-09-09
Where are you Wandering Wade? We love you and miss you.
Jo Jo San
21-09-09
In the Sept. 21, 2009 Vancouver Globe and Mail, writer Frances Bula states that B.C. wants to force homeless into shelters in extreme weather. This will likely be declared a violation of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms but I believe it to be a good law. There is no doubt that these people who refuse protection from the severe weather require some assistance but like mental patients must be protected from themselves. Although I am NOT a supporter of the Winter Olympics primarily in that ALL citizens of BC will have to pay for them the benefits, if any, will be realized by those in the metro Vancouver and Whistler areas and certainly not all of those. Additionally, it will certainly be a burden on some of those in those areas.
Sincerely,
Ted Ulmer
16-09-09
Hello Folks!
Ma Murray Day was a great success! Hurrah. Congratulations to the organizers. I hope that Jessi and I well represented the Anmore Alternative News. Thank you to all of the people who helped us.
On another very important topic, yesterday Jessi and I attended a wilderness commitee meeting downtown where we were brainstorming ways to promote/organize the big day coming up October 24th. I don't know if you have heard but the wilderness commitee is shutting down the Cambie Bridge for the day where there is going to be a peaceful parade march to Science World where other fun and stuff will happen. The march is going to be to raise awareness about the climate action that needs to be taken.
Now that our neighbours below have President Obama making big environmental changes down south, we Canadians have become dead last on the list of G8 countries taking action about climate change. This is pretty embarassing. So basically the October 24th event ("Bridge to a Cool Planet") is going to be raising awareness about this issue. Also the event is an attempt at trying to get people involved in contacting politicians to let them know that we need to agree to cut back about 25 - 30% of our carbon emissions by a certain year (I think it's 2030?) by the conference in Denmark in December.
I was wondering if maybe any of the Anmore Alternative's environmentally concerned readers would like to get involved! I know many of you have good connections and you could help promote this very important event. I'm hopeful the fish hatchery folks might get involved somehow too if they want to. We need help promoting the event, and also are trying to think of ways to get some funding for it. Also we are going to have booths for selling food, and other goods, or just booths for info about topics related to the events (which is where I thought maybe the fish hatchery could get involved). Jessi and I will also plan an article for the Anmore Alternative.
Please let anyone you think would be interested know! Including young people because we're trying to get a lot of kids involved too - Jessi and I are going to put up posters and make announcements at a lot of elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools in Anmore and the Tri-cities. Also, we're trying to get students & staff at universities and colleges in the lower mainland involved.
If you are interested in helping or have anymore questions please give me a holler on the Anmore Alternative comment card. Click Here or e-mail me at kaitlynmacmillan@gmail.com. Together we can make a difference. Let's be the change!
Thanks so much!
Katie MacMillan, Co -editor AAN
17-08-09 Canada criticized as a leading industrial pollutor Click Here
09-09-09
Dear Editors
I love the place. From what I can tell on internet sounds like the place for me.
Irene Carlson
10-08-09
Hi Lynn,
Thanks for adding this letter to the Anmore Alternative! I love the photos you added of the geese, so beautiful!
Last year I canoed and rafted down the length of the Fraser River as a part of the Sustainable Living Leadership Program, which is organized by the Rivershed Society of BC. Fin Donnelly, the Executive Director of RSBC, facilitates the program each year, and I can honestly say that it was probably the most amazing experience I have ever had.
The program itself is quite costly, and RSBC works hard each year to fund the program so that other youth can have the same opportunity as I had. As such, I have been working this year on a Fundraiser Dinner, called Spirit of the Fraser, which will take place on Sunday October 4th, 2009 at the Scandinavian Community Centre in Burnaby. 100% of proceeds will go to the program, and below is a "poster" describing the event.
If you think this might be a possibility, I would be very appreciative! Either way, thanks so much for the consideration!
Jane Thomsing
15-08-09
Dear Editors,
Here are my thoughts on the controversy,about the Anmore Stop Signs at Strong Road as presented to Mayor and Council on August 11th. Thank you to Camille Tribe of Strong Road in Anmore for reading this letter on my behalf.
Mayor and Council,
By now it must be apparent that a very large number of residents are displeased with the Stop Signs at the intersections of Strong and East Roads. Letters and petitions have been presented. Facts and information about traffic calming, costs, predictions, worries, and survey results are fresh in your minds. The promise of a review after a four week trial came and went and the controversy and difficulties have escalated.
The solution is simple. The Stop Signs must be removed. It is not a negative reflection upon the work of council or on the work of the PUBLIC WORKS, PARKS, TRANSPORTATION & SAFETY COMMITTEE of Anmore to remove these signs. It is my belief that everyone involved was doing the best they could with the information they had at the time. We teach our children that they must learn from their errors and move forward. We must do the same.
The Stop Signs have not served the intended purpose and have, in fact, created a greater safety hazard and greater traffic headaches for the residents of East Road. I feel fortunate that I do not have to drive that road during rush hour and am empathetic to those who do. I am one of those drivers who drives at the speed limit and stops fully at all stop signs. To some, this is an anomaly.
Like you, I volunteer my time to the Village and to committees. I know that time and research went into the original decisions to implement these traffic calming measures. One can be disappointed with the problem at Strong Road or look at the success of the Stop Signs at Thompson Road where no complaints have been lodged. Everything is, after all, in the perception of the electorate.
Submitted respectfully in my absence,
Elaine Willis
Editor's Note: Elaine Willis has attended almost every scheduled public Council meetings since she moved to Anmore. She has twice run for a seat on Council. A new documentary on Elaine Willis of Anmore by Glenn ter Borg for the BC Ataxia Society Click Here
Dear Editors:
Please take a look at the cost of Security at the 2010 Olympics. (Click Left). When one considers these costs plus probably a lot more than is disclosed here plus the cost to BC taxpayers for the secondment of civil servants who are being seconded to the games by the BC Government and will retain their normal wages and the disruption of our lifestyle, traffic controls, etc, is it worth it? I doubt it very much. Sure it will benefit some who will gouge the visitors plus the pork barrel appointments, etc. I question the deployment of 5200 RCMP personnel to this -- not that it isn't needed for this event -- but so many detachments are seeking more personnel thus public security being compromised in other areas. Why should citizens in areas of this province outside of metro Vancouver have to bear some of the expense when they have absolutely no chance of benefits. "T'ain't right".
Ted Ulmer (Retired RCMP) 11-08-09.
Dear Editors,
The frog photo taken by 'Curious J' is a red-legged frog, I believe. We found one of these at Mossom Creek Hatchery last Sunday. Finding one is significant as they are 'blue-listed'. Red-legged Frogs are nationally listed as Special Concern by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) and they are on the provincial Blue List.
Ruth Foster
05-08-09
Dear Editors,
I would rather sit with a group of defecating geese any day than anywhere near someone as ignorant, narrow-minded and disillusioned as columnist Terry O'Neill in his recent Tri-city News article. His comments about a "problem" with geese are so ridiculous, I don't even know where to begin.
Let's start with his comment about the park being "created by humans for human enjoyment, not by geese for goose enjoyment." The park was not created by humans, it's actually called nature, something Mr. O'Neill is obviously unfamiliar with.
He goes on to argue that since we would not allow geese to do their dirty business in hotel lobbies, we should not allow them to do it in "our" parks, either. In other words, he does not feel that it is appropriate for wildlife to defecate in nature. I am not sure that I've ever heard anything more idiotic in my life. Although Mr O'Neill's comments are over the top, I am certain that there are others who also feel that geese are a nuisance. Maybe we should get to the root of the problem.
Canada geese are migratory waterfowl that make use of natural wetlands as habitat. Due to urban development and agriculture, more than 70% of Canada's wetlands have been destroyed. Despite their loss of natural habitat, geese have adapted well to the urban environment and can be seen in abundance around the Lower Mainland in parks, golf courses and even in your own backyard.
One of the biggest contributors to geese remaining in one urban area is food handouts. Geese will not abandon a site as long as people are feeding them. Anyone who has been to White Pine Beach will know that food handouts to wildlife are not uncommon, not only because people are intentionally feeding them but because some are so ignorant as to leave their food waste behind.
One natural way to control geese populations is predators, one of which is the coyote, the same animal that just a few weeks ago bit a young girl after it was known that people had been feeding it. Perhaps if people had not been feeding the coyote, it would have gone after more natural food sources such as geese, thus helping to maintain the geese population.
So who is at the route of this supposed goose problem? It turns out we are. And how does Mr. O'Neill think we should solve it? By taking aggressive action to rid the parks of geese. Never mind the garbage left lying around or the empty beer cans and cigarette butts floating in the water, what is important to Mr. O'Neill is that he doesn't have to worry about putting down a blanket if he wishes to sit on the grass. As Mr. Cutayne mentioned in his letter about climate change, it is time for Terry O'Neill to get his head out of the sand and to pierce the bubble that he has been living in for far too long.
Jane Thomsing,
Coquitlam 30-07-09
Co- Editor's Note: The following photos of these beautiful, yet poopy, creatures were taken from the deck of Bilbo Baggins in Bedwell Bay.
Dear Editors,
You've heard about Gay Pride and other types of Pride Days but this one was new to us. While we are very proud of the Chief Editor of the Anmore Alternative - Blond Pride was a new one on us! Enjoy! Click Here. Looking forward to being your neighbours in the very near future.
Gabriele Bigoloni
29-07-09
Editor's Note: Oh for goodness sakes!
Dear Wadrian,
We have a friend who put down wine for a number of years for special events. For example, when his daughter was born he put away a case of fine wine to be opened on her 18th birthday. Do you have any thoughts on this? And do you have any suggestions?
Trudy Schneider 28-07-09
Dear Trudy,
Interesting, I also have a friend in the same situation. I believe he was a bit disappointed in the final outcome (of the wine, not the daughter).
I would suggest that at least two critical factors be considered: the age-worthiness of the wine, and the storage facility. Relatively few wines will actually age well for this amount of time. Only the very best reds, some icewines or sauternes, and perhaps an occasional white Burgundy, or a sweet white German Reisling will keep for any length of time. (Remember that 15-20 year old Riesling Lynn? It was great.)
To be age-worthy the wine must have the right amounts of acids, sugars, and tannins, balanced with copious amounts of fruit. As it ages, some oxidation will be inevitable - without sufficient acids, tannins and fruit, the oxidation process will simply overwhelm the wine, turning it orange or even brown.
The storage facility is also critical - a nice deep cool cave in the chalk of Champagne would be perfect, but most of us don't have access to such facilities. Your storage facility must be cool, dark, about 70% humidity, and vibration free. The most critical thing about the temperature is that it be constant, preferable around 10-12 deg C. You can buy a specially built refridgeration unit, but then you will be limited to its maximum capacity. Also remember, you have to keep your hands (and corkscrew) off of the bottle!
I plan on writing in a future column about how to build and manage your own wine cellar, so I'll stop at this point and have a glass while I contemplate how wine cellars might solve all of the worlds problems.
Wadrian 28-Jul-09 (Wadrian's Wine Column)
25-07-09
Dear Editors;
Very curious about the word of the day - botrytis. Is Anmore harbouring rare fungi?
Elaine Willis
Dear Elaine,
Your inquiry has been forwarded to me. I'm not sure how to answer this question - there could very well be a number of undiscovered fungi (love those 'i' plurals) in Anmore, e.g. in the bear poop around the back yard, or maybe in someone's athlete's foot. But the wording of the question would suggest some nefarious intent on the part of the Anmore population - the verb harbouring usually implies some intent to hide. I'm sure the good citizens of Anmore wouldn't intentionally harbour any strange organisms ... or would they?
Certainly, the only grapes around Anmore are maybe those in the grocery store - no respectable grape would grow in a rain forest - so there is not much chance of any botrytis growing naturally in Anmore. But then again, there might be a number of sour-grapes around town, but despite how shriveled up they may look, they probably don't have any botrytis either.
I'm afraid the only way to get any real Botrytis around Anmore is to buy a good bottle of Canadian ice wine.
Wadrian Wines (Ed. with his tongue firmly placed in his cheek)
26-07-09
15-07-09
Dear Editors,
I am looking for the link to the survey re the daycare center referred to in your mailout. Pls advise and thx.
Dave Kmyta
Hello Mr. Kmyta,
The Survey ended on Sunday, July 12, 2009 after one month. The results have been tabulated and each of the Council members was presented with a copy of the findings on Tuesday, July 14th. I'm sorry that you missed the opportunity to participate but keep reading the Anmore Alternative News, there will be more opportunities to have your say in future.
Best regards,
Lynn Burton, Co-editor
10-07-09.
Hey …. Editor….
Where did this title Coutts' Corner come from?
Anything to do with this?
This is Coutts’ Corner Coffee shop in the Old Mill in Perth, Ontario….and a “Labelle” original hanging in Jim Watson’s house. Or… is “Coutts’ Corner an old editorial or editing title I’ve never heard of before?
Keep writing…
JEF
Co-Editor's Note:
The Coutts' Corners column is named after long-time Anmore resident and former Councillor, Glen Coutts. He currently chairs the Advisory Planning Commission and is a citizen member of the Anmore Standing Committee on Finance. Coutts' Corner was originally a column in the Anmore Times however he has chosen to permanently move it to the Anmore Alternative News. We, the Co-editors, welcome his extremely knowledgeable insights and thank him for stimulating discussion on the issues and operations of our community. Incidentally, lovely painting!
Dear Editors,
I just noticed something. Why is it called the Hal Weinberg grant when Anmore pays for it??? Should it not be called the Village of Anmore Scholarship or something? This item leads me to believe Weinberg set up and financed the award ( which would be fine ) but in fact the Village and taxpayers do!!! How did this come to be...at taxpayers expense???
Robert Schofield
08-07-09
07-07-09
Dear Editors,
The unfortunate incident that occurred between a coyote and a young child earlier this week could have been avoided if people had not been feeding the wild animal. Feeding wildlife is not only against the law, but invites numerous urban wildlife conflicts into the community, which often results in harm to both people and animals.
Sometimes people feel that they are doing the animal a favour by feeding it, worried that it may starve if they don't reach out and help it. The truth is, feeding wildlife causes them even more harm and will often result in their death. Most of the foods being left out by humans is not natural to them and will often result in poor nutrition and an unhealthy digestive system. Coyotes play a very important role in our ecosystem by feeding on rodents, which helps keep rodent populations under control.
Unfortunately, once a coyote learns to associate humans and food, their behaviour changes, and rather than hunt for rodents, they lose their fear of humans and approach us looking for meal handouts. This behaviour can easily result in a threat on human safety, and is a death sentence for the animal. The simple answer to this problem is to stop feeding wildlife.
Anmore residents should be especially aware that feeding wildlife results in problems for both humans and animals. How many more photos of bears feasting on human garbage need to make the front page before we all understand the negative impacts that leaving food out can have on animals and people? How many more wild animals need to be shot or people need to be hurt before we take responsibility for our food waste? The next time you see a wild animal, and think that leaving food out for it is a good idea, think again. You are not doing the animal any favours, you are only feeding the conflict.
Sincerely,
Jane Tomsing
07-07-09
Dear Editors,
The July 7, 2009 letter from Jane Tomsing is very helpful in explaining why not to feed wildlife. I am one person who also does not put out hummingbird feeders. I feel that these birds (wildlife) don't need our artificial chemical and sugar concoctions. I see plenty of hummingbirds in my garden feasting on organic flowers. I felt her letter to the editor also spoke to (whether intentionally or not) this issue.
Elaine Willis, 08-07-09
Hi Editor of Anmore Alternative…
I read the Alternative, with great interest, as often as I can. It is just amazing how much happens in smaller communities, when we put our minds to writing about it all.
Anmore is far from sleeping. This kind of effervescence makes me wish I lived on the West Coast… surely Anmore would be on top of my list of preferred places. Better yet, the Big Boys on the Parliament Hill should read it. They would find that it is possible to keep constituents aware of “things”.
We recently had the pleasure of sailing to Europe with 'Big Chief Editor' of Anmore Alternative, Dr L.E. Burton. I think it only fair Anmore Alternative readers know that much of her “travel” and “pleasure” holiday hours are spent on the keyboard, writing for the Alternative. Yet…. she still finds time to be exceptionally sociable.
Lynn, I hope your readers realize how much commitment and pleasure you put into making all this important information available to the Anmore population and to anyone interested.
Great reading! Thank you!
J. E. F. Labelle
Ottawa
06-07-09
Co-editor's Note: Thank you for your letter Mr. Labelle. It is really a tribute to everyone who contributes to and reads the Anmore Alternative News. The Anmore Alternative News merely provides the platform, it is you who deserve the pat-on-the-back. Thank you very much!
Lynn,
This is too funny. I thought I would share this with you. Scott Anderson was one of Robert's vice-presidents when Robert was President of the Transportation Division of SNC-Lavalin. He worked for Robert in Malaysia and the Philippines.
Now, can you believe it? The only way Scott could make contact with Robert
was through the Anmore Alternative. Now, that is great advertising!
Camille Tribe, 22-06-09
Dear Robert and Camille:
Hi, this is Scott Anderson. I trust you are both well. Judging by "Robert
and Camille's Excellent Adventure" in the Anmore Alternative News it would seem that you are! After many Google optional searches this is the only place where I found what, I hope, is your email.
In any case, I was trying to make contact with Robert so if there is a phone
number that you are willing to give out I would appreciate it so I could call.
Best Regards: Scott
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