(Page 20)
The goal for the final stages of construction is very close! However systems testing and inspections for tiny details may extend the move-in time a little longer. Shipments of tables, chairs, shelving, desks, computers and lounge furniture are on the way and will be stored until everything in the new building is perfect. Unfortunately some of the sections of books will be boxed as the shelves that they now occupy will be removed in order to be retrofitted for the new facility.
Hopefully the programs planned for March will be held in the new facility. If, perchance this is not feasible, the programs will go ahead in the regular location. Our volunteer phoning committee will be calling you to keep you abreast of happenings. The two program sessions that are fast approaching are the Career Exploration on March 8th sponsored by the McBride Career Group and the Travel Talk on Denmark scheduled for Wednesday evening, March 9th.
Books that you have signed out within a week of the actual move will be extended a few weeks until the reopening. No late fines will be charged. If you really want to, you can drop your books off at one of the neighbouring libraries. Of course, people with books on their eReaders will not have that problem with signing out or returning books! The number of books signed out in January is double the number signed out before Christmas. It's so easy! Pick up an instruction sheet next time you are at the library.
Are you in need of shelving for your store, business, storage room or meeting area? The tall metal shelving units that exist in the current library are for sale for a nominal or negotiable fee. Some cupboards are also available. And for the asking, you can take one of the public computers home since Fortis and Telus are providing the new library with up-to-date technology.
Behind the scenes, dozens of residents are preparing for the move. The Open House team has sent out invitations to the Opening Celebrations which will be on Saturday, April 23rd. Food has been ordered, entertainment booked, posters are at the printers and tour guides are signed up and ready to be trained. The Garden Group has been entrusted with the task of sourcing out cement furnishings for the ATB Reading Garden, wicking flower pots for the patio and decorative crockery for the indoor plants. Brides may have a bridal registry! Likewise the library has a Grand Opening “plant” registry at the local flower shops and green houses. Check out the plants that the Garden Group have determined are best suited for the new facility – both indoor and outdoor.
Your source for the Good News of your community. Visit our website to view our FULL online e-edition (it's like flipping through the real thing right on your screen!) http://gatewaygazette.ca ----- Click on an article headline if you would like to read our entire publication online, in original print format. To leave a comment, click the link at the bottom of each post.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Div. 4 News from Councillor Suzanne Oel
(Page 20)
What do my property taxes pay for?
After the education tax has been removed, the remaining 55% of tax dollars levied is used by the M.D. of Foothills to provide a number of services - directly or jointly with other municipalities - to the residents of the rural area and all the Hamlets within its boundaries. These services include general administration, public works department, road construction and maintenance of over 2,000 kms of road (snow removal, grading, gravel, bridge repair, culverts, mowing ditches, equipment – graders and sanders), fire protection, ambulance service, emergency management, planning and development administration, building permits with safety codes officers, assessment department, tax and mapping department, garbage disposal, agricultural services, recreation and parks, family and community support services, cemeteries, protective services - bylaw enforcement, support of seniors' foundations, libraries, community clean up, Stars ambulance, committees and boards to aid in the support of communities, inter-municipal planning and administration of provincial funding, Website with information and articles posted, Western Wheel subscription to every tax payer with the purpose to provide residents with minutes and agendas and upcoming hearings. Water services are provided in the hamlets of Aldersyde, Blackie and Cayley, and waste water services are provided in the hamlets of Blackie and Cayley (paid for by the hamlet residents). M.D. of Foothills staff is responsible for the administration of the Foothills Regional Commission, which operates the Foothills Regional Waste Management Facility and the Frank Lake Effluent Pumping System, with costs recovered by the users.
Best Regards,
Suzanne Oel,
Councillor - Division 4
www.suzanneoel.com
so@suzanneoel.com
What do my property taxes pay for?
After the education tax has been removed, the remaining 55% of tax dollars levied is used by the M.D. of Foothills to provide a number of services - directly or jointly with other municipalities - to the residents of the rural area and all the Hamlets within its boundaries. These services include general administration, public works department, road construction and maintenance of over 2,000 kms of road (snow removal, grading, gravel, bridge repair, culverts, mowing ditches, equipment – graders and sanders), fire protection, ambulance service, emergency management, planning and development administration, building permits with safety codes officers, assessment department, tax and mapping department, garbage disposal, agricultural services, recreation and parks, family and community support services, cemeteries, protective services - bylaw enforcement, support of seniors' foundations, libraries, community clean up, Stars ambulance, committees and boards to aid in the support of communities, inter-municipal planning and administration of provincial funding, Website with information and articles posted, Western Wheel subscription to every tax payer with the purpose to provide residents with minutes and agendas and upcoming hearings. Water services are provided in the hamlets of Aldersyde, Blackie and Cayley, and waste water services are provided in the hamlets of Blackie and Cayley (paid for by the hamlet residents). M.D. of Foothills staff is responsible for the administration of the Foothills Regional Commission, which operates the Foothills Regional Waste Management Facility and the Frank Lake Effluent Pumping System, with costs recovered by the users.
Best Regards,
Suzanne Oel,
Councillor - Division 4
www.suzanneoel.com
so@suzanneoel.com
From My Bookshelf.... by Lynn Willoughby
(Page 21)
Pioneers and Early History I don't read a lot of non-fiction, but it's a nice change of pace from time to time. Both of the books reviewed today came recommended by friends.
Journey Fantastic. With the Overlanders to the Cariboo - Vicky Metcalf
This account of the journey west by Catherine Schubert and 200 overlanders, from Fort Garry to Kamloops, is a story of perseverance and fortitude. Not only was Catherine the first white woman to make the journey, but she had three children aged 6, 4 and 2, was also pregnant with a fourth child, had to feed and launder for them, her husband and their two French-Canadian farmhands who made the journey with them. The goldfields in the Cariboo was the reason for this trek. May of 1862 was the departure date.
The book is full of vivid descriptions of flora and fauna, musical entertainment around campfires in the evening, warm days and starry nights. Then came the mosquitoes, the blackflies, swamps that seemed impenetrable, miles of deadfall from prairie fires, two hundred foot embankments down to cross treacherous rivers, guides who decamped and warring factions of Natives.
Once the party leaves Fort Edmonton things deteriorate even more. Food is more scarce, ammunition runs out so hunting is not an option, pack animals are dropping, rivers rise from the fall rains and whirl away the carved dugout canoe carrying all the Schubert's tents, cooking pots, tools, bedding and their few clothes.
Starving and gaunt, Catherine is carried into Kamloops on the 13th of October, giving birth to her daughter that same day. With enormous help from the native women - mother's tea, help with the birth, care of the older children, understanding and midwifery, the baby is delivered safely. Remembering the sole mainstay of their diet the last week of the journey - rose hips, Catherine names this first white baby born in the Cariboo, Rose.
The Schuberts discovered that of the thousands of people seeking gold, only a handful had been successful. The only thing they themselves found was a beautiful country.
Catherine lived in different parts of the west until her death in 1918 in Armstrong. There are many stories of this dauntless Irish woman, whose kindness to new settlers, native people, children and women about to give birth, was unlimited. She never forgot the help she received when in need.
Although this is Catherine's story, it must be said that the success of the journey was due in large part to the strong belief the Overlanders had that they would reach the Cariboo. They worked tirelessly, starved, shared, co-operated and never felt sorry for themselves. But the Native and Metis guides, hunters, villagers, women and mid-wives play no small part in this successful journey.
1491 - New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus - Charles C. Mann
Has history mislead us about pre-Columbian Americas? This book argues that different fields of research and more modern dating methods suggest that the indigenous peoples were more numerous and much more sophisticated than previously believed.
Mann attempts to piece together how the Inca Empire fell, that their population numbers far exceeded our previous beliefs and their use of metal was for arts and crafts only. They were not defeated, Mann claims, by steel and horses, but by smallpox and civil war.
The Aztecs were also more advanced than we have been led to believe. The Olmec's culture was extremely advanced as were their methods of agriculture. They bred maize from scratch, as it had 'no wild ancestor.' Some Mesoamerican cultures used calendars and had developed the wheel. They shaped their environment using fire, thus encouraging certain plant and animal life. Their use of zero is widely described as the most pivotal mathematical discovery ever made. It allowed for complex records of long sequences of numbers.
"People (Europeans) accustomed to keeping domesticated animals lacked the conceptual tools to recognize that the Indians were practicing a more distant kind of husbandry." This kind of thinking has basically coloured our view for six centuries.
Mann concludes with the idea that we must look to the past to right the future. "If modern nations want to return as much of the landscape as possible to its state of 1491, they will have to create the world's largest gardens."
Mann makes many very good arguments in this extensively researched book and challenges us to want to know more. I found it fascinating and very readable.
Noah's Choice: The Future of Endangered Species
The Aspirin War; Money, Medicine and 100 Years of Rampant Competition
…..and several others
Who Knew?
Pachacuti founded the Incan Empire, the largest in pre-Columbian America. It is thought that he built Machu Picchu - either as a family home or as a vacation retreat. Located 2430 metres above sea level, it is made of polished dry-stone walls. Evidence suggests this site was selected because of its alignment with key astronomical events important to the Incas.
Pioneers and Early History I don't read a lot of non-fiction, but it's a nice change of pace from time to time. Both of the books reviewed today came recommended by friends.
Journey Fantastic. With the Overlanders to the Cariboo - Vicky Metcalf
This account of the journey west by Catherine Schubert and 200 overlanders, from Fort Garry to Kamloops, is a story of perseverance and fortitude. Not only was Catherine the first white woman to make the journey, but she had three children aged 6, 4 and 2, was also pregnant with a fourth child, had to feed and launder for them, her husband and their two French-Canadian farmhands who made the journey with them. The goldfields in the Cariboo was the reason for this trek. May of 1862 was the departure date.
The book is full of vivid descriptions of flora and fauna, musical entertainment around campfires in the evening, warm days and starry nights. Then came the mosquitoes, the blackflies, swamps that seemed impenetrable, miles of deadfall from prairie fires, two hundred foot embankments down to cross treacherous rivers, guides who decamped and warring factions of Natives.
Once the party leaves Fort Edmonton things deteriorate even more. Food is more scarce, ammunition runs out so hunting is not an option, pack animals are dropping, rivers rise from the fall rains and whirl away the carved dugout canoe carrying all the Schubert's tents, cooking pots, tools, bedding and their few clothes.
Starving and gaunt, Catherine is carried into Kamloops on the 13th of October, giving birth to her daughter that same day. With enormous help from the native women - mother's tea, help with the birth, care of the older children, understanding and midwifery, the baby is delivered safely. Remembering the sole mainstay of their diet the last week of the journey - rose hips, Catherine names this first white baby born in the Cariboo, Rose.
The Schuberts discovered that of the thousands of people seeking gold, only a handful had been successful. The only thing they themselves found was a beautiful country.
Catherine lived in different parts of the west until her death in 1918 in Armstrong. There are many stories of this dauntless Irish woman, whose kindness to new settlers, native people, children and women about to give birth, was unlimited. She never forgot the help she received when in need.
Although this is Catherine's story, it must be said that the success of the journey was due in large part to the strong belief the Overlanders had that they would reach the Cariboo. They worked tirelessly, starved, shared, co-operated and never felt sorry for themselves. But the Native and Metis guides, hunters, villagers, women and mid-wives play no small part in this successful journey.
1491 - New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus - Charles C. Mann
Has history mislead us about pre-Columbian Americas? This book argues that different fields of research and more modern dating methods suggest that the indigenous peoples were more numerous and much more sophisticated than previously believed.
Mann attempts to piece together how the Inca Empire fell, that their population numbers far exceeded our previous beliefs and their use of metal was for arts and crafts only. They were not defeated, Mann claims, by steel and horses, but by smallpox and civil war.
The Aztecs were also more advanced than we have been led to believe. The Olmec's culture was extremely advanced as were their methods of agriculture. They bred maize from scratch, as it had 'no wild ancestor.' Some Mesoamerican cultures used calendars and had developed the wheel. They shaped their environment using fire, thus encouraging certain plant and animal life. Their use of zero is widely described as the most pivotal mathematical discovery ever made. It allowed for complex records of long sequences of numbers.
"People (Europeans) accustomed to keeping domesticated animals lacked the conceptual tools to recognize that the Indians were practicing a more distant kind of husbandry." This kind of thinking has basically coloured our view for six centuries.
Mann concludes with the idea that we must look to the past to right the future. "If modern nations want to return as much of the landscape as possible to its state of 1491, they will have to create the world's largest gardens."
Mann makes many very good arguments in this extensively researched book and challenges us to want to know more. I found it fascinating and very readable.
Noah's Choice: The Future of Endangered Species
The Aspirin War; Money, Medicine and 100 Years of Rampant Competition
…..and several others
Who Knew?
Pachacuti founded the Incan Empire, the largest in pre-Columbian America. It is thought that he built Machu Picchu - either as a family home or as a vacation retreat. Located 2430 metres above sea level, it is made of polished dry-stone walls. Evidence suggests this site was selected because of its alignment with key astronomical events important to the Incas.
Gardens Galore by Karen Brewka - Forcing Spring
(Page 23)
My friend, who lives on the Wet Coast, e-mailed to say she just finished pruning her plum tree and was going to force the branches inside for early blooming. I don't know why she needs early blooming but I know we sure do.
Here, if we can get through the snow to our flowering trees and shrubs, whatever pruning need to be done should be done by the end of February, early March. I pruned a branch off my flowering crab this week and the bark was not yet slipping but I've noted some trees with swelling buds.
Early flowering trees and shrubs make good candidates for forcing. Cut long (2 to 3 foot) branches, trim off the lower twigs and re-cut an inch or two off the bottom of the stems. Plunge cuttings into a bucket of warm water sweetened with floral preservative or 7-Up. Store in a cool room away from heat registers and direct sunlight until flowers start appearing. Change water every 5 to 7 days. Arrange branches in large heavy vases and enjoy an early spring inside.
Double flowering plum, flowering crab and forsythia are good to try. If you can reach some pussy willows, these are a great addition to your early spring arrangements and surely help to bring spring inside.
The Valley Neighbours Garden Club meets every third Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm. For information call Susan at 403 – 933 – 7675. The Horticultural Club meets every second Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm. For information call Sheila at 403 – 931 – 3989.
Here, if we can get through the snow to our flowering trees and shrubs, whatever pruning need to be done should be done by the end of February, early March. I pruned a branch off my flowering crab this week and the bark was not yet slipping but I've noted some trees with swelling buds.
Early flowering trees and shrubs make good candidates for forcing. Cut long (2 to 3 foot) branches, trim off the lower twigs and re-cut an inch or two off the bottom of the stems. Plunge cuttings into a bucket of warm water sweetened with floral preservative or 7-Up. Store in a cool room away from heat registers and direct sunlight until flowers start appearing. Change water every 5 to 7 days. Arrange branches in large heavy vases and enjoy an early spring inside.
Double flowering plum, flowering crab and forsythia are good to try. If you can reach some pussy willows, these are a great addition to your early spring arrangements and surely help to bring spring inside.
The Valley Neighbours Garden Club meets every third Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm. For information call Susan at 403 – 933 – 7675. The Horticultural Club meets every second Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm. For information call Sheila at 403 – 931 – 3989.
Household Hints By Rosemary - Pain in the ###
(Page 23)
The experience of a pulled muscle makes you stop and rethink every movement and take careful consideration before you do it again. The fear of being laid up and sore, sent me off to the internet to get advice on how to avoid having another bout. The most common time for back injury is during the winter when shoveling ~ a necessary activity. With all the snow we've had so far this year, there was no way to get out of this chore and I thought it would be a good idea to share my findings. So, for all those shoveling out there, here's some suggestions to help avoid this seasonal problem. First of all, I think I was chilled and that makes the muscles tighten up and less likely to tolerate any stress. Warm up, wear warm clothing and do some simple stretching exercises before starting. Wear a back support if possible and use an ergonomic shovel. You can put your back out, or cause muscle spasms, if you slip and fall on the ice, so wear warm boots with good traction. Don't bend and twist to throw the snow, scoop in a forward motion and step in the direction you're going to throw. Lift with your legs and only take the amount and weight you can comfortably handle, don't overexert, scoop up smaller shovelfuls. Take your time and stop for plenty of breaks for something warm to drink.
Use the correct tool to break up ice, get a small hatchet, or ice spade, chip away from the edge inward and in small pieces. While breaking up ice, wear safety glasses. Trying to use a shovel for this purpose will put too much strain on your back and will probably damage the shovel.
When the job is done, once again do some slow and easy stretches to loosen up, then take a shower, or better, a warm bath with Epsom salts to ease those hard worked muscles.
Sounds funny, but these hints also work for any job you do that utilizes the back, neck and stomach muscles, such as sweeping or vacuuming. I'm inclined to lean forward when sweeping or vacuuming, which is not good for the back, or stomach. It's best to stand straight, loosen up and take small short strokes. If you do “put out” your back, the best suggestions are to get back to normal routine and light work as soon as possible. Apply heat and cold alternatively, and take a muscle relaxant to help ease the pain. Sitting or laying down will not speed up the healing process.
Although we may complain about having to clear our walk and driveways, most of us are able to get out and about even after the worst weather. There are elderly and handicapped who are confined to their homes throughout snow days or ice storms. This would be a good time to check on your neighbours and help out any shut-ins. If you're heading off to the grocery store, the library or pharmacy, a quick call to find out if you can do a favour for a shut-in would be greatly appreciated. Phone anyway, a cheerful chat is always welcome and warming when the snow is blowing from the rooftops.
You can send your hints or topics you would like to see hints on to Rosemary at gazette@telus.net
Use the correct tool to break up ice, get a small hatchet, or ice spade, chip away from the edge inward and in small pieces. While breaking up ice, wear safety glasses. Trying to use a shovel for this purpose will put too much strain on your back and will probably damage the shovel.
When the job is done, once again do some slow and easy stretches to loosen up, then take a shower, or better, a warm bath with Epsom salts to ease those hard worked muscles.
Sounds funny, but these hints also work for any job you do that utilizes the back, neck and stomach muscles, such as sweeping or vacuuming. I'm inclined to lean forward when sweeping or vacuuming, which is not good for the back, or stomach. It's best to stand straight, loosen up and take small short strokes. If you do “put out” your back, the best suggestions are to get back to normal routine and light work as soon as possible. Apply heat and cold alternatively, and take a muscle relaxant to help ease the pain. Sitting or laying down will not speed up the healing process.
Although we may complain about having to clear our walk and driveways, most of us are able to get out and about even after the worst weather. There are elderly and handicapped who are confined to their homes throughout snow days or ice storms. This would be a good time to check on your neighbours and help out any shut-ins. If you're heading off to the grocery store, the library or pharmacy, a quick call to find out if you can do a favour for a shut-in would be greatly appreciated. Phone anyway, a cheerful chat is always welcome and warming when the snow is blowing from the rooftops.
You can send your hints or topics you would like to see hints on to Rosemary at gazette@telus.net
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