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The Voice is first on the net with your Chilliwack news!

• Shoppers Drug Mart robbed Sunday. Man passed note demanding cash. Police ask public's help to ID.

• RCMP ask for public's assistance solving Shell Gas Station robbery on Lukakuk. Large photo here.

• Search for knife-wielding bandit continues after attempted robbery at McIntosh Grocery Store Friday.

• Police arrest third female accomplice in violent purse snatching & assault by wicked trio at 5 Corners last week.

More of last week's headline news here

Tuesday April 8th is: All Is Ours Day

Tuesday March 9^th is: Commonwealth Day

Chilliwack Prices This Week

110.0 Esso - Young Rd. Mon 9^th

100.4 Tempo - Young Rd. Sun 7^th

Last Week

100.9 Shell - Vedder Rd. Thurs 4^th

102.9 Husky - Young Rd. Sat 27^th

Cheapest

19.0 Venezuela, S. America

Today's Crude Oil Price

$80.48/bbl down

$81.86/bbl yesterday

Courtesy of Bloomberg Energy

Local gas prices posted by us at:

www.van.bc.gastips.com

Advertise here!

January 2010

Real Estate Report Chilliwack

A Voice Staff Report

The Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB) MLS report for January 2010.

Total residential real estate sales in Chilliwack during January this year were 137 which is nearly double the 76 sold during the same time period last year.

Single Family Homes

CADREB reports that there were 66 single family detached homes sold in January which is double the 33 that were sold during the same time period in 2009. Currently there are 421 new SFH listings from a total of 1,102 this month compared to 1,321 in 2009

Town Homes

Town home sales have more than doubled this year over the same period last year. There were 37 town home sales in January 2010 compared to 26 in 2009. Currently in Chilliwack there are 205 listed for sale.

Mobile Homes

Mobile home sales in January were about the same as they were last year. 4 were sold in January 2010 compared to 3 in January 2009. There are 43 current listings which is down from the 59 which were listed last year over the same period.

Apartments

Apartment sales were way up in January this year with 11 sold compared to just 4 that sold over the same time period in 2009. Total listings for sale in January were 210 which is down from the 266 listed in January 2009.

Homes with Acreage

A total of 4 homes with acreage were sold in January this year compared to 5 that sold in the same period last year. There are 92 total listings which is down from last year which had 95 listed in December 2008.

Total residential sales in Chilliwack for January 2010 was a whopping $40,612,346 way up from last year which saw $21,915,901 in sales during January 2009.

For more information visit their website: www.cadreb.ca

2010 Outdoor Burning

Open Air Burning is permitted from March 1 to April 30 and again October 1 to November 30 7 am to 10 pm subject to the following conditions:

Land clearing burning is prohibited year round. Specific location of the burning site must comply with setbacks listed in the bylaw. An adult must be present at all times during the burning. Burning is only permitted when the Environment Canada Venting Index is listed as "GOOD" to "FAIR"

For more information on the Ministry of Environment requirement, including the venting index, click here.

Permits are $25 per burning season. Bylaw violations will result in fines ranging from $250 to $1000 per offence.

Citizens on Patrol

Volunteers Needed

Chilliwack Citizens On Patrol (CCOP) is looking for volunteers. CCOP assist the RCMP by patrolling the streets of Chilliwack on Friday and Saturday evenings, looking for suspicious activity or any situations that may require police or emergency personnel.

CCOP is non-confrontational and merely observes and reports. Volunteers must be 19 years and older and training is provided. Please contact the Community Policing Society at 604-393-3012 for more information or to volunteer.

Have you donated

blood lately?

www.blood.ca

Ad space available

Have You Checked Out The Chilliwack Museum Lately?

Winter Hours

Tour the museum and get in touch with Chilliwack's roots.

Mon to Fri 9:00 am - 4:30 pm

Saturdays 11:00 am - 3:30 pm

45820 Spadina Ave.

604-795-5210

www.chilliwack.museum.bc.ca

March 9^th is Hope's Paralympics Torch Celebration Day

Day 7 - The Torch is in Hope

Celebrate with Hope 3 pm to 6 pm.

March 11^th Party The relay will turn into a 24-hour celebration event through Vancouver and the area surrounding Robson Square.

March 12^th Opening Ceremonies Ticket range from $30 to $175 and for most events tickets are $20. Closing ceremony is at Whistler $60.

For more information: www.vancouver2010.com

Pathway To Hope Celebration

The Fraser Valley Brain Injury Association is looking for donations of new items for the Silent Auction at their Pathway To Hope Celebration on March 27th at the Northview Golf & Country Club in Surrey.

For more info call: 604-557-1913 or e-mail: info@fvbia.org

See more more in events here.

April 24th. See more information on this community fundraiser event here.

This is a Baynes family community fundraiser See the events listing for more info.

Voice Community News Friday February 26^th 2010

Weighing in for Wally

Catch And A Cut

Fishing is great on the Vedder River

Staff report

Weighing fish in on Friday for the Wally Hall Steelhead Derby at Fred's Fishing and Tackle on Yale Rd.

Yarek Koziura (right) of North Vancouver hooked a beauty Friday morning in the Chilliwack-Vedder River. His fish was about 8 lbs.

Dean MacDonald (below) of Maple Ridge weighs in his gorgeous 14.2 lb. catch while a customer catches a hair cut in the background at Gene's.

Dean MacDonald weighs his steelhead in for the Wally Hall derby Friday morning at

Fred's Fishing and Tackle on Yale Rd near the Chilliwack-Vedder River.

Wally Hall Steelhead Derby runs from Dec 1st to Mar 31, 2010.

Whether you're in the derby or just fishing for fun, every Steelhead weighed in at Fred's Custom Tackle receives a discount off any regular priced item (excluding Simms products) in the store on the day of your weigh-in relative to the size of your fish. For example, if the fish is under 15 pounds you receive a 10% discount. 15-20 pounds - 15% and fish over 20 pounds - 20 %. Sounds like fun, that is the whole idea. Good luck!

Thought of the day - Never shake hands with a fisherman after he holds a fish.

Craig Hill/Voice photos

Olympic fans were a no-show at Central Community Park Saturday to watch Olympic medal games on the big screen.

As I stood in the light morning drizzle at Central Community Park Saturday with some steamy joe in hand, I looked around and noticed that I was alone. The massive screen was showing curling and no one else was watching but myself and a red-coated security guard. There were actually more curling rocks on the screen than in the park watching it the entire time I was there.

The curious thing for me here is that after all of the complaining and whining last week in the media about not using the big screen TV, where were all those people now? Hello.

Perhaps the weather was to blame for the lack of people watching the Olympics on the big screen at Central Community Park Saturday. We certainly can't blame it on a lack of Olympic spirit because there is plenty of that as citizens demonstrated three weeks ago when the torch came through town.

Last week on short notice, the City of Chilliwack announced they were going to set up the little-used giant TV screen, rain or shine, in Central Park on Saturday for some medal events and again on Sunday at the Landing Sports Centre (Ag-Rec building) for the men's gold medal hockey game

and closing ceremonies. Three kids did eventually show up for some eagerly

anticipated cotton candy right at nose level.

The screen became the object of media's attention last week when someone decided to complain about it sitting idle throughout the Olympic celebrations and games in Chilliwack.

Editorials were written and everyone seemed to have a say about the expensive screen that was supposedly rusting away in some warehouse. But that was before people were clued into the fact that the Olympic parade came with it's own big screen and the city couldn't use their screen. I don't know if anyone noticed but VANOC has some pretty tough rules that covered everything from what people ate to what they wore in venues.

Having said that, the city did drop the ball by promoting Abbotsford's Olympic venues instead of coming up with ideas for this town. City of Chilliwack officials are always open to hearing from the public. It's invaluable information to them and it's fair to citizens also when they listen.

So instead of collectively whining about a lack of Olympic events in Chilliwack, those who complained should turn that energy inward and come up with fresh ideas for the rest of us.

One more thing, thanks to the city for giving me my very own mega screen TV.

The screen will be set up at the Landing Sports Centre Sunday. Doors open at 11:30 am for the men's gold medal hockey game at 12:15. Later, watch as Canada hands over the Olympic flag to the next Winter Olympic hosts, Sochi, Russia at the Olympic Closing Ceremony from 5:30 pm until 9:30 pm.

Big Screen Fails to Draw Big Crowds To Park

Fizzle in the drizzle Saturday but where are the screen complainers?

February 27^th 30 2009

Joe Reporter

The Joe Report

Voice Local News Sunday February 28^th 2010

A Squatters Haven

Another Abandoned

Building Burns At Base

Is this the last or are there more

to come?

Craig Hill/Voice

Craig Hill/Voice photos

The twisted remains of an abandoned building (above) is all that remains after a fire razed it on Thursday. At one time the structure housed a sergeant's mess hall when the Chilliwack Forces Base was operational. Last year a spectacular blaze destroyed several other abandoned buildings also on the base. That fire was believed to have been intentionally set.

An abandoned building (top) sits next to the mess hall which burned. Curtains still hang on upper level windows while the bottom remains boarded up. Will this be another arson target for suspected squatters?

With some amendments the building could be put to use to temporarily house Chilliwack's homeless.

Voice Event News Monday March 1^st 2010

No bufords allowed pawdnuh!

The Wild Wild West of the New Millennium

PBR runs roughshod over Heritage Park

Craig Hill/Voice

Thirty wild west wizards knew how to git 'er done Friday night as they bucked, bounced and bailed from the tops of thirty rank animals in the Pacific Bull Riding Association Championship at Heritage Park. And nobody "kissed a bull."

Craig Hill/Voice photo

A rider is inverted as he flies off a bull during the PBR Canada Tour Championship Bull Riding event at Heritage Park Friday.

A solid following of bull riding fans filled much of Cannor Arena stands to watch their cowboy hero's ride through 8 seconds of hell on bulls with names like Big Bopper and Junior for a handful of prize money and an extra helping of prestige.

Today's contemporary riders bear little resemblance to their early counterparts who struggled to survive on a small cash prizes from the dusty rodeos in unnamed towns exemplified in movies like John Huston's, The Misfits.

Far more than just local barnyard legends, these guys are on the A-circuit in the wild wild west of the new millennium. They wear reinforced helmets, kevlar vests and they travel in $100,000 tour buses and the good ones can make $1 Million a year on today's rodeo circuit.

But when they explode out of the chute on top of animals that weigh as much as a car, it's still the same old bones being broken as it was 60-years-ago.

When it comes to choosing the bulls that the PBR uses, they typically look for ones that buck, kick real hard and have good spinning action. Australian Harve Stewart accepts congratulations for

winning the Championship.

Riders get extra points if they spur or kick the bull and also when their arms wave and feet fly around. It's simple, you just look like your riding through hell even when you get a "Buford" (a bull that just runs around and wont buck.)

Harve Stewart, an Aussie cowboy, is the current national bull riding leader and he also took first place in the championship at Cannor Arena Friday. The year is still young but so far he's won almost $18,000 and has 1201 points.

Merrit's Ty Pozzobon, 18, came in second in the championship which was his first win of the year. "He is currently in the first year of a 4-year Scholarship in Texas," said his mother, Leanne Pozzobon, who was at the show cheering her son on. "He won about $4000 tonight maybe."

This bull made a run for it and was roped back to the corral.

Randy Quartieri, from Los Alamos New Mexico, told the Voice after the show. "I rode tonight, didn't do very good," he said.

Carey Victory from Mission was fairly new at the sport when he "kissed a bull" and hurt his arm pretty badly but he shrugged off the injury as part of the job. "I broke my humerus bone but they took a nerve out and nerves take longer to heal then bones," he said. “I'll be back in a few months.”

Victory said the training bulls were easy on him as a student.

"I went to bull riding school in Alberta for 3-days. We were on a bull in 2-hours. The contractor would bring bulls out that maybe they used in high school rodeos, they were kind of mediocre, they came from the schools and they came from the juniors. Just a little less rank so that when 16-year-olds or 14-year-olds are getting on bulls then every bull rider is getting taught first. Different levels of bulls kind of like rider's (ability), “ he said.

For those that aren’t aware, bull riding is without a doubt the most dangerous event in rodeo and probably in all of sport. To stay aboard the bull, the rider holds onto a flat braided rope, which is wrapped around the bull's chest just behind the front legs and over it's withers. The tail of the rope is threaded through a loop on the other end and tightened around the bull. The rider then wraps this tail around his hand, sometimes weaving it through his fingers to further secure his grip. In order to score, the rider must not allow his free hand to touch the bull or himself, and he must keep from being bucked off before the eight second time limit has been reached.

For more information and to follow your favourite riders visit:

www.pbrcanada.com or www.wwerodeo.com

For the photo gallery go here.

Voice Environment News Monday March 2^nd 2010

To outstrip the wind

The Eagles Have Landed

Bird count numbers down from 2008

Craig Hill/Voice

Submitted photo

Some of the hundreds of bald eagles seen and counted during the Fraser Valley Eagle Festival at the Chehalis estuary last year.

There are only two top eco viewing sites in North America; the Squamish estuary and Eagle Point Community Park at Chehalis. At last count, there were about 70,000 bald eagles worldwide and approximately 20,000 of those reside in BC.

The Fraser Valley Eagle Festival (FVEF) has been counting the diurnal birds of prey since 1995. The group was formed after the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund and the Wild Bird Trust created the Harrison/Chehalis Bald Eagle Festival. Later they became a registered society and their name was changed "to broaden the scope of the Festival."

Jo-Anne Chadwick, owner/operator of Fraser River Safari, a company that coordinates exploratory river tours guided by David Hancock and work with the Festival said they also work toward preservation and conservation of the estuary and increase awareness through fun activities like the eagle count.

"We work with all our (viewing) sites to create a better experience for guests while working to protect the environment at the same time," she told the Voice in an e-mail.

Last year was a banner year for people showing up to count at the Chehalis River Estuary. Over 1200 visitors counted 1,208 eagles from the viewing platform with "clickers" over two days last November. Even though that number seems like a lot, the figure is actually down from the 2,185 birds counted in 2008.

The FVRD last week reported 2,108 eagles were counted in 2009 however the birds were enumerated after the Festival was over.

"The 2,100 eagles were counted later in the season as the numbers usually peak in
mid December or even January in some years," said Chadwick. "Saturday's numbers were higher as the weather was better. We count at each site with our clickers and average out the numbers."

The park is home to a range of other waterfowl and bird species like trumpeter swans herons which the group also counts during the 2-day festival. A park ranger with two spotting scopes is on site and visitors have access to a tent and patio heater where they can warm up on those chilly November days.

Submitted photo

David Hancock gives interpretive tours on the river.

Park activities include jet boat eco-river tours; walking tours and environmental presentations. Naturalists and interpreters are usually on hand to present historic and ancient aboriginal sites as well as displays from local artists are featured.

Once you've witnessed an eagle rocket down on a spawning salmon like an F-14 jet locking on a target, you'll know then and there that you have seen one of natures most wondrous sights.

This year's festival is on Nov 20th & 21st and the count will be done by David Hancock first thing in the morning or each day.

How to get there

Eagle Point Community Park, Morris Valley Road between Sandpiper Golf Course and Tapadera Estates. Take Morris Valley Road off Lougheed Hwy. It is located just past the Sand Piper Golf course on your right. Watch for FVBEF signs and Harrison with #4 on it. Because of the sensitive wildlife habitat, pets are not permitted within the park.

www.fraservalleybaldeaglefestival.ca To join in the Festival this year.

www.fraserriversafari.com To book river tours.

www.hancockwildlife.org To view some live eagle nests online.

Voice Community Arts News Monday March 2^nd 2010

"Hats Off" Gallery Show

Spinning Their Wheels

Guild weaves some homespun happiness

Staff report

Staff/Voice photos

One group of hats and fashion accessories from on display in the "Hats Off" show at the Chilliwack City Hall gallery at 8550 Young Road.

Rumplestiltskin has nothing on these ladies and that's no yarn.

Chilliwack Spinners and Weavers have a gallery showcasing dozens of handmade fashion items and accessories from 22 artisans at the City Hall gallery until April 18th.

There will be an opening reception on March 4th at 7 pm where you can meet and greet the spinners and weavers.

Spinning and weaving has been around since the pioneering days and one of the reasons behind the Guild's show is to pass on their traditions to interested youth. This colourful and interesting show is not to be missed.

The Guild meets from September through June at the Arts Center on the first Thursday of every month. They also hold drop-ins Thursday mornings at 10 am

For more information call the Chilliwack Community Arts Centre at: 604-792-2069 by e-mail to: info@chilliwackartscouncil.com or visit their website: www.chilliwackartscouncil.com

Chilean Earthquake Relief

The Salvation Army in Chile is taking donations for earthquake victims. If you can donate then contact Chilliwack's Care and Share Centre 604-792-0001

Voice City Hall News Thursday March 4^th 2010

2010-11 Budget

City Seeks Public Input On "Lean and Mean" Budget

Policing costs shoot through the roof in latest financial plan

Craig Hill/Voice

Chilliwack's 2010 Budget plan is in and it's described by Mayor Sharon Gaetz as a "Lean and Mean" one.

Council gave the revised 2010 Operating Budget a first reading. Also, in a first for the city, a Public Information meeting will be held at the next council meeting on March 15th. The purpose is to allow residents the opportunity to voice concerns or pose questions regarding this year's budget draft.

Chris Crossman, General Manager of Operational Services delivered the 2010-11 Budget package to City Hall at Monday's council meeting saying that the financial outlook is improving for Chilliwack.

"Chilliwack is well positioned for the economic slowdown that we're now seeing signs of coming out of," said Crossman.

The highlight of the budget was that property taxes will only increase 3.9% this year and next. Occupants of the two largest slices of the fiscal pie were school and police.

Out of the 3.9% tax increase, a significant chunk of that (2.7%), was from inflationary policing costs which the municipality had little control over and didn't intentionally download the increase onto taxpayer's backs. The new PRIME BC rates are also reflected in the increase which unexpectedly cost the city an additional $50,000 after the Solicitor General Kash Heed's announcement last November.

Policing takes up 29% of the total budget and School taxes account for 36%. The city's hands were tied when it came to the RCMP cost increase who loaded a 2.7% inflationary increase directly onto local taxpayer's backs which totaled a whopping $1,243,000 over the previous budget while overspending and what some see as mismanagement by the the District #33 School Board led to increased school taxes. Transportation is also a major expense and eats up 20% of the budget.

During the speedy slide presentation, Crossman told council that there are other items that fall under the "Transportation" budget. "Transit, drainage, dikes and the maintenance of the roads and the rehab program are all in there," he said.

Crossman described this year's budget as a "lean operation" with a "pay-as-you-go philosophy" that results in lower taxes for Chilliwack property owners and also that tax relief is given every year.

With the Cheam Centre and the Cultural Centre coming online there was another $630,000 in costs associated with those two projects slated to finish this year.

Mayor Sharon Gaetz said the planned session for public input on the budget is a brave new approach for council to take and she welcomes anyone who wants to speak on budget issues to do so either in person then or to submit their comments and questions in writing.

"This is something new for council," said Gaetz. "Council hasn't usually provided an opportunity for people to come and speak in a public information meeting about it and we will entertain any questions at the end of a session. So we're looking forward to that happening and we just really hope that people appreciate the fact that we've worked really hard to keep this as a lean and mean budget that will be presented to our public."

The meeting is slated for 7 pm at the City Hall on March 15th. Citizens can speak to the budget in person or submit comments in writing to: Mayor and Council, 8550 Young Road, Chilliwack, BC V2P 8A4 Fax: 604-793-1813 or e-mail to: budget@chilliwack.com

*Slides were taken from the City Hall presentation.

Voice News Release Friday March 5^th 2010

Spring Fishing

It's Angling Season!

Ministry of Environment reminds fishers to get licenced for the 2010 opening

Staff report/Voice

The Ministry of the Environment

sent out a reminder to fishermen Vedder River fishermen. Voice file photo

across BC to remember to renew

or buy their 2010-11 angling licence now that the April 1 to March 31 season is just a couple of weeks away. The Non-Tidal licences can be bought prior to the opening and also after the fishing season starts.

E-licenses

When you purchase an e-license (online licence) for the first time the system will give you the number. Remember to write this number down and store it in a safe place. When you are buying it make sure you select the correct year for the licence. If you forget your angler number, contact the Help Desk by phone at 1-877-855-3222 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. See below for link.

Returning Anglers

Anglers who have bought an e-licence in the past will just need their angler number, date of birth and the phone number used at the time of registration. To pay online you will need a valid credit card. VISA, MasterCard and American Express are accepted.

Basic Licence Prices

Annual Angling Licence $36

One Day Angling Licence $10

Eight Day Angling Licence $20

Annual Licence for Disabled $1

Annual Licence for Age 65 Plus $5

You can buy a licence in Chilliwack at: Fred's Custom Tackle - 5580 Vedder Rd. Chilliwack 604-858-7344

Licences can be bought online at: www.fishing.gov.bc.ca.

Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis at: www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish/regulations

Voice Community News Saturday March 6^th 2010

Planet Stewards

Vedder River Crew Gets Special Recognition

Keeping it clean and green

Staff report/Voice

Submitted photo

From left to right: Sharon Gaetz Mayor Chilliwack, Don Langford CVRCC director, Lew Chater CVRC, Jack Short CVCC, Patrica Ross FVRD board chair, Chris Gadsden CVRCC, Gerry Dickey CVRCC, James Atebe Mayor Mission, David Lamson FVRD Area "E " director and Randy Tancock South Coast Conservation Officer.

After the weekend warriors and the parties, after the bottle smashers and butt flickers and even after the illegal dumpers, comes a group of volunteers devoted to a clean, green and healthy Chilliwack Vedder River. Thoughtful people who clean up the mess left behind by a few thoughtless river users.

Last week the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD), the City of Chilliwack and the Ministry of the Environment wanted to show their appreciation to the Chilliwack-Vedder River Cleanup Coalition (CVRCC) for the mostly unsung work they do which frees up city staff to look after other things like the dikes and drains.

So at the regular board meeting on February 23rd, a plaque was presented to the group for their volunteer work and for the organizing of 3 to 4 river cleanups a year since 2002.

Coalition Director, Chris Gadsden, was grateful for the acknowledgement. "The directors were pleased to receive this recognition on behalf of the Adopt-A-River groups and the great volunteers that take part in these cleanups each year," he said.

The beautiful cedar plaque is emblazoned at the top with the FVRD logo and in the lower corners with the Provincial Government and the City of Chilliwack logos. Larger view of Coalition plaque.

It reads:

"Presented to Chilliwack Vedder River Cleanup Coalition. On behalf of the Fraser Valley Regional District, The Province of British Columbia and The City of Chilliwack, We wish to sincerely thank you for your volunteer efforts in promoting a clean river environment and fisheries habitat for the Chilliwack Vedder River. February 2010."

The plaque was ordered through Elite Trophies in Chilliwack who then had it carved by Wood Adventures in Kamloops. It features an interesting fish inlay with offsetting natural wood panels.

Doug Wilson, FVRD Parks Manager, said he wasn't sure what kind of fish was on the dedicatory plaque.

"As far as the fish on the front it is simply that, I don't think anyone can say whether it is a Steelhead or salmon, other than a fish. We wanted to make sure however that it didn't look too much like an Orca," he said.

During the river cleanups people walk along the river picking up trash that careless campers and park users leave behind. Garbage bags are provided and the Coalition parks containers for people to toss the garbage into. The cleanups are based out of the Heron Reserve off of Keith Wilson Rd. in Sardis.

Adopt-A-River is designed to improve the state of Chilliwack River by combining river stewardship and community effort. The idea is inspired by the successful Adopt-a-Highway program that has kept many roadways clean in North America. CVRCC has broken the Lower Chilliwack River into many small segments (1 to 2km long) that can be adopted by the general public.

It enables civic clubs, individuals, garden clubs, businesses, churches and other organizations to maintain them. Volunteers perform litter pick-up approximately four times per year. This program helps to reduce the cost of cleanup and allows more freedom for the City Public Works crew to do jobs that can't be done by volunteers such as drainage maintenance.

Ultimately this program will help citizens develop a sense of ownership and pride in their community, and participants will build camaraderie with their fellow volunteers. In recognition of the service being provided to the community, the City will install a sign on the adopted river segment with the group's name.

Currently there are 22 groups involved in the Adopt-a-River program.

If you're interested in helping clean up the environment and get some exercise at the same time, visit their website: www.cleanrivers.ca

Voice Local News Saturday March 6^th 2010

Community Investments

Fighting Fire With Paper

Columbia Valley Fire Department gets $30,000 boost from local developer

Staff report/Voice

The Cottages at Cultus Lake are served by the CVFD. Photo courtesy of CCI Ltd.

In January, Cultus Country Investments Ltd. made a cash contribution to the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) specifically for the Columbia Valley Fire Department (CVFD) and at the last FVRD board meeting they were officially recognized for their charity.

Cultus Country Investments Ltd. designed and built the $100-million gated Cottages at Cultus Lake community on 45-acres on the Columbia Valley Road next to Aquadel Golf Course.

The residential land investment company, headed by Development Manager Jon Van Geel and partner Dave Baslor, recognized that their newly constructed 218-unit cottage development in the resort would put an additional load on the current system and on the volunteer fire fighters.

"The CFVD is an important amenity to our area," Van Geel said in an e-mail to the Voice. "Fire Chief Brad Henderson and his wife Darcy are very committed to the safety of the Columbia Valley residents. Darcy, a driving force, has been in contact with us many times over the past several years asking for our corporate assistance where we can. They regularly Staff/Voice photo

have fund raising events for The Cultus Lake FD backs up the Columbia Valley FD.

their equipment needs and we

have provided old buildings to simulate house fires for their volunteer training."

Brad Henderson, CVFD Fire Chief, expressed the department's appreciation in a letter to Van Geel dated February 11, 2010.

"This donation will be treated with great consideration as the tanker is one of two substantial purchases on our plates," wrote Henderson. "The second is the replacing of our rescue truck, which we have been postponing for as long as possible. Your generosity will help to speed the process, and will be treated with the utmost respect." Henderson added that "Our department also wishes to compliment the efforts your company has made in assisting us by way of installing hydrants for us to use. Your commitment to building safe and attractive homes, with an overall commitment to "community" is noted and applauded."

The nostalgic-style cottages have current fire protection standards built into them however the infrastructure still needed "fire-flow hydrants" to provide faster access for the Freightliner pumper truck which is coming and also a burling pond water reservoir. The CVFD also needed new hydrant fittings, hoses and updated emergency equipment.

Van Geel's company also has employees who volunteer at the CVFD and so the company has been made aware through them what the department needs in terms of equipment.

"Funding for public amenities is always a challenge and is magnified when these amenities require volunteer help. We believe Columbia Valley is a tight nit community in which Cultus Country Investments is a part. They have few amenities and it is our duty to help out where we can," said Van Geel.

The CFVD, which falls under the jurisdiction of the FVRD, serves the resort area and the Soowahlie First Nation community. Their volunteers are trained and continually update their training as First Responders to stay on top of the latest fire fighting techniques. They were fairly busy with 43 calls last year.

Additionally, if you are thinking about joining the CVFD as a volunteer please call: 604-858-8426 Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm or visit the Fraser Valley Regional District website: www.fvrd.bc.ca

Cottage buyers can find more information at the sales office: 1785 Columbia Valley Rd., Lindell Beach or by visiting their website: www.cultuslakecottages.com

Voice News Sunday March 7^th 2010

Breaking news

Car Cooks On Cook St.

Early morning car fire

destroys vehicle

Staff report/Voice

Craig Hill/Voice photo

Fire crews douse an early morning car fire in the 9400 block of Cook Street. The fire, which started about 6 am, destroyed the car's interior. It's not known how it began but speculation was that it started from an electrical short in the wiring. No one was hurt in the blaze. The firefighter holding the hose is female!

Voice Community News Sunday February 28^th 2010

Parking Zen

From Island 22 To

Island 24/7

Overnight parking slated for park this summer

Craig Hill/Voice

Voice file photo

Island 22 boat launch with the parking area to the right (not shown) in the photo.

This summer the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) will initiate a pilot project to allow overnight parking at Island 22. The gravel lot can hold about 150 pickup trucks and trailers and the ramp has room for a dozen to launch from at any one given time.

Island 22 Park is a world-class fishing spot for salmon, trout, steelhead and sturgeon. In peak season, the launch is bustling with tour guides bringing in clients clients from various parts of the planet and at times it seems the fishermen are almost as abundant as the fish. Almost.

Up until the summer of 2007, the campground was operating and provided for overnight use but left little room for vehicles to park while camping on the Fraser River.

Historically, fishermen drove in there, launched their boats and those camping on the gravel bars and riverbank just left their vehicle parked at Island 22, at their own risk of course.

Later the City and the FVRD agreed to co-manage the park. In a myopic move and without any consultation with the fisher community, they decided to stop overnight parking due to what they said were "insurance liability issues" and towed any vehicles left there overnight.

Great for the tow truck companies but not so for the fishers. It frustrated a lot of people.

Last year in November, Fred Hellmer of Fred's Fishing & Tackle and a delegation of parking supporters, presented the case to the Regional Parks Committee to have overnight parking again.

A truck unloads boat at the park. Voice file photo.

On Friday, Hellmer spoke with the Voice. "They made a commitment to try and make it happen. For me it's a no-brainer, we should have it," said Hellmer in his store on Vedder. "It's good business. If you want to park your car there and pay for it."

Hellmer added that Chilliwack needs to enhance area fishing and work with fishers. Towing vehicles isn't small-town-friendly.

"If you're putting a sign out saying 'Chilliwack is Open For Business', that is the opposite message. You're telling people don't bother coming here. Go to Kilby or go to Mission," he said.

Another issue that was overlooked when the decision was made to stop overnight parking was the problem of safety. Fishermen in trouble. The first sign of a problem could be an abandoned vehicle. In the past, who was to know exactly who was out on the water and for how long?

Under the proposed system, authorities could know when someone is overdue simply because their parking hasn't been paid or they park beyond the weekend. Checks could be made of vehicles if the gate attendant logged their expected return times next to their vehicle plate numbers.

Hellmer said that the biggest liability of all could come if someone died as a result of the gates being locked.

"Let's just say that you and I go out, and we don't have any intention of leaving our vehicle there overnight. Let's say we fall out of a boat and so when the gate gets locked, what happens? They tow. If you don't phone anybody like the RCMP and you find out the next day somebody drowned, that to me is more of a liability," said Hellmer.

Having the gates unlocked and open 24/7 on weekends would also facilitate faster response times for Search and Rescue efforts during the busiest days when problems are most likely to occur.

The business of fishing is bigger than big in Chilliwack. It's the bread and butter for tourism in the city. The City, the FVRD, the Parks Department, local business and fishers should all work together to facilitate the sport year round.

"It's going to be a wonderful thing to have overnight parking there, absolutely for sure," said Hellmer.

The parking project begins weekends only from June 30th until September 5th. and there will be an attendant on site.

Overnight parking fees Schedule:

• $20/night to launch and park their vehicle adjacent to the boat launch.

• $50/3 nights on long weekends

• $50 extra for reg. seasonal boat launch pass for unlimited nights. ($100 total)

• $100 extra on commercial guide passes for unlimited nights. ($200 total)

In 2008, the park made almost $8500 above their operational costs and last year that figure increased to over $14,500. Those are quite the overages. The budget for servicing and maintaining the project will be $5,000. Parking revenues are expected to offset the costs.

There is no doubt this park is a money-maker. However it remains to be seen if the extra money will be used locally to enhance the overall fishing experience there, like installing new launches or upgrading existing ones and improving services, or if it will be used some place else that doesn't benefit Island 22 directly.

Any long-term management strategy for the park has to include overnight parking. If the park board wants to do right by fishermen and enhance business around the sport fishing industry, then they'll embrace the parking opportunity and expand it to 365 days a year.

Voice News Monday March 8^th 2010

Canadian Forces

Sappers Train At Island 22

Water under the bridge

Craig Hill/Voice

The Fraser River with it's variable currents and

conditions is an ideal place to learn to assemble rafts

on the water and for just over a week that's

what a squadron of Sapper Engineers, sent

from the Department of National Defense,

has been doing at Island 22.

Craig Hill/Voice photos

Sappers in training leave land behind after lunch at Island 22 Park Monday. Sapper Nicholas Cressman is in the upper photo.

This week from March 2nd -10th a squadron of Sappers from the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering (CFSME) in Gagetown, New Brunswick has been in Chilliwack learning how to erect bridges and rafts at Island 22 and the weather couldn't be nicer compared to the east coast right now.

CFSME was originally located in Chilliwack because the mild, short winters provided year-round training opportunities. In 1997 they relocated to Gagetown after CFB closed here.

On Monday, the combat engineers worked with four specialized bridge erecting boats, called "BBEs", each one towing a section of floating bridge decks that are hooked together into raft flotillas.

It's the Sappers who go into a combat zone first and often have to work under enemy fire. Armed with plastic forks and knives these troops

attack their lunch.

The BBEs facilitate movement and support of friendly forces by ferrying equipment and traffic across rivers and lakes while impeding the enemy's movement. Usually, a combat engineer is also trained as an infantry rifleman.

ICER Sapper Nicholas Cressman, who was on radio sentry duty, told the Voice that he gets his basic training and combat engineering at the CFSME in Gagetown but comes from Edmonton. "It was nice to get away to the west coast. I'm enjoying the change," he said. "It's lovely."

Master Cpl.Troy Van Tassell who is an instructor from the military school also said the change was good. "They decided to change the pace and they sent us here where I teach "Boat Ops"," explained Van Tassell. "We'll be here until the 16th and then we're going back to Gagetown."

For more information on how to join the Sappers go here.

For the photo gallery go here

Voice Community News Tuesday March 9^th 2010

The sound of silence

There'll Be Peace In The Valley

Residents see end to Columbia clamour after 3-year battle

Staff report/Voice

It might not be as peaceful in the valley like in the old Elvis gospel standard but it's a lot quieter now that a court ordered injunction was issued against a loud property owner in the Columbia Valley.

Neighbors of Bradley Van Geel at 50721 O'Byrne Road, had enough of his racket disturbing their tranquility. For more than 3-years after the first complaints, the parties still happened , the dogs still barked all night and the heavy traffic still came and went.

The neighbours wrote letters and filed complaints with city noise bylaw department. For 3-years Van Geel operated with impunity and in total disregard for the community, thumbing his nose at the FVRD and even refusing to pay fines for bylaw infractions. The FVRD responded to the pugnacious Van Geel by taking him to court January 29th.

The city noise bylaw section 4(b) of states that: "No person being the owner or occupier of any private land or premises, or being for the time being in charge thereof, shall suffer or permit to be made thereon or therein any noises or sounds which disturb or which are liable to disturb, the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of the neighbourhood or of persons in the vicinity."

That's fairly plain English but Van Geel still didn't get it. So the courts helped change his mind with the lawsuit going against him.

In the judgment, Honourable Mr. Justice Sewell, agreed that there was a problem and acknowledged the complaints from Van Geel's neighbors.

"It is not disputed that there are a number of dogs penned up outside on the Property and left largely unattended for long periods of time. There is ample evidence that, as one would expect, these dogs bark and howl throughout the day and night. In addition there have been numerous occasions when parties or celebrations have created excessive noise which has unreasonably disturbed the peace and enjoyment of the Snerles and Reimers," wrote Justice Sewell.

Van Geel obtained affidavits from other neighbours in the area indicating that they have rarely if ever heard noise coming from his property. But Justice Sewell noted that "These neighbours live a considerably greater distance away from the property than do the Snerles and the Reimers."

In a letter to the FVRD dated February 28th, 2010, the Snerle and Reimer families wrote they have their serenity once again and the letter also thanked staff for the more than 3-years work involved.

"We do have our historically peaceful lifestyles back and we are extremely grateful to all involved," the letter read. It also went on to say that "No doubt, this action has also re-enforced, both to residents and visitors, that that there is a sense of law and order, or decorum, to be kept in the Valley."

In the future, Van Geel faces being arrested if he continues to thumb his nose at the noise complaints. He is prohibited from making more racket which would disturb the neighbourhood but that probably won't happen because he has bought another property and plans on moving there.

Pity his new neighbors.

Canadian Paralympics

Medal Count

Games are March 12^thto the 21^st

Gold Silver Bronze Total

n/a n/a n/a n/a

1-800-222-TIPS (8477)

Chilliwack Crimestoppers

www.chilliwackcrimestoppers.ca

For more Most Wanted go here.

Voice Local News Thursday February 18^th 2010

Weird Winter Weather

Chilliwack Sees More Warm Temperatures in February

Spring unlocks the flowers that paint

the laughing soil –– Heber Photo courtesy of Lyvia Rose.

Staff Report

Craig Hill/photo

A crocus on Courbold Avenue trumpets an early spring Wednesday afternoon.

here is an upside to the freakishly warm weather we're having –– spring is

sprung sooner. But it's not recommended to take your snow tires off just

yet despite the balmy temperatures in the Fraser Valley recently because winter isn't officially over until went March 21st,

A combination of clear, sunny skies and a dry outflow wind is expected to extend through the weekend driving temperatures up into the double digits. Even with the 13°c degrees expected, we're still not close to setting a record for the hottest day in February. That happened in 1968 when the mercury soared to 20.6°c. The average for February is 8°c and the record low for the month was a bone-chilling -16.7°c.

Voice Event News Friday February 18^th 2010

City Hall Press Release

Residents Can Watch Olympic Ceremonies On The Big Screen

Bring a chair, hot choc and a dash of some Olympic spirit to the park next weekend

Staff Report

Voice Olympic file photo

The city's giant LED screen will be setup the entire day at Central Community Park on Victoria Ave. next weekend for a series of Olympic medal events and moved to the Landing Sports Centre Ag-Rec building on Spadina Ave. for the closing ceremonies the following day.

The following is a press release courtesy of the City of Chilliwack.

CHILLIWACK, BC –– Calling all Chilliwack residents! Come out and help us cheer the Olympic athletes next weekend on Chilliwack's giant LED display screen.

Central Community Park

On Saturday, February 27, join us outside at Central Community Park from 10:00 am until 9:30 pm to watch the Men's Alpine Skiing, the 4-Men Bobsled finals, Long Track Speed Skating and the Bronze Medal Men's Hockey Game.

The Landing Sports Centre

Then on Sunday, February 28, cheer on the Men's Hockey finalists at the Landing Sports Centre as they battle for Olympic gold. Doors open at 11:30 am for the 12:15 pm game start time. Later, watch as Canada hands over the Olympic flag to the next Winter Olympic hosts, Sochi, Russia; at the Olympic Closing Ceremony, from 5:30 pm until 9:30 pm.

"Chilliwack residents have Olympic fever," said Mayor Sharon Gaetz. "It began at our Torch Relay celebration and has spread across the community. You know you have it if; you've been wearing red and white clothing for the past weeks, if Canadian flags have suddenly popped up around your home and your vehicle, or if your voice is hoarse from cheering on our Olympic athletes!"

The Olympic events will be broadcast on Chilliwack's 11' x 17' portable LED screen, which was custom designed by iCapture Media Systems Ltd., located in Chilliwack. The screen was funded by a $330, 000 matching grant to the City from the Province of BC's Olympic/Paralympics Live Sites (OPLS) program. The screen has approximately 250,000 LED lights and Central Community Park last summer during Party In

has been used at many the Park festivities. (Voice file photo)

community events such as

local sporting activities, special events and was invaluable when used as a community message display during the 2009 Floods.

The OPLS made specific funding opportunities available to communities located outside the Greater Vancouver Regional District and the Whistler-Squamish corridor. The matching funding was provided for the construction or upgrading of facilities that leave a lasting Olympic legacy within the community.

Chilliwack's legacy project consisted of three parts: the upgrade and renovation of the Landing Sports Centre, which included the lobby and washroom expansion and accessibility lift, as well a main floor partition, the construction of an outdoor amphitheatre in Central Community Park and the portable LED display screen that will be used in the park and Centre over the weekend.

The total cost of all the projects was $1.59 million. The legacy of these projects has benefitted Chilliwack residents and community groups since their completion in 2006 and will continue to do so well beyond the 2010 games.

For more information contact Gord Pederson, Director of Parks,

Recreation and Culture at 604-793-2904 or visit the city's website: www.chilliwack.com

Voice Local News Sunday February 21^st 2010

Air Apparent

Surplus Cash From Regional Air Quality Budget Pays For Station

Agassiz will be getting a particulate matter monitor

Staff Report

Voice file photo.

gassiz is getting an Air Quality Monitoring Station which will measure PM

(particulate matter) monitor in the area and a $360,000 surplus in the Regional Air Quality budget will fund the new station so there won't be any shedding of tears from the tight-fisted Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD).

The project has been in the works since 2007 when the FVRD recommended the installation of at least two new measuring stations. It will be a costly venture. The price tag is a hefty $9000 for an ozone monitor and approximately $35,000 for a PM monitor.

Metro Vancouver has an old, outdated ozone monitor that they're willing to give or sell cheaply to the FVRD for use in Agassiz, but the aged system isn't compatible with Metro's new data acquisition network and eventually, if used, will have to be upgraded anyway. Generic photo of PM monitor.

The question for the FVRD is whether they will use antiquated equipment or buy new stuff. Installation of new equipment would be done at no cost by the suppliers.

Originally, Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre staff and city officials had their sites set on a spot near the existing weather station in Agassiz. But because the location was on an unpaved road and is adjacent to farms, dust from both would contaminate the PM readings. Last word was that it had been decided the location of the station will be at the District of Kent Hall.

Voice Community News Monday February 22^nd 2010

One God, one faith

Multifaith World Social Justice Day

Chilliwack City Hall overruneth with goodness

Craig Hill/Voice

Craig Hill/Voice photos

Harold Rosen from the Bahá'í Faith Community spoke to the Multifaith gathering at City Hall which was set aside for World Social Justice Day on Sunday.

ne God, one faith. That was the message at City Hall on Sunday where a

Multifaith gathering saw almost 50 people representing a dozen different religions congregate for an afternoon of fellowship. The mood was reverent and for two hours the City Hall was as tranquil as it will ever be.

There was no hand-clapping or applause just a quiet appreciation for the musical presentations which came from Nabil Fadai on the piano and a trio of singers from the Chilliwack Music Academy who sang a beautiful rendition of Mozart's "Ave Verum".

There were representatives from the many religions throughout the city and they came together, not in religious rivalry, but in religious harmony to celebrate each other's tenets and exchange thoughts about their own belief systems.

The Bahá'í of Chilliwack coordinated the 9th annual gathering as part of the World Day of Social Justice –– a global event with the purpose of bringing awareness to the plight of impoverished people ill around the globe.

This year, the program's theme was the "Prosperity of Humankind" which originally came from a 15-page publication by Baha'i International that addresses things like fair distribution of wealth, human rights, gender equality and economic justice.

Bahá'í emcee Harold Rosen, had a welcome message and a social justice type of reminder that the land City Hall is on is Sto:lo territory.

"We thank you for being here at City Hall here on traditional Sto:lo land," said Rosen. "Land that is blessed by millennia of livelihood of many untold

Chilliwack Arts Centre singers on Sunday at City Hall.

generations of our first nations brothers and sisters. We delight in all our relations and diverse sampling joining us here today."

The Prosperity of Humankind offers a "vision of prosperity that is both material and spiritual," Rosen told the audience. "Such prosperity must benefit all of the planet's inhabitants without distinction. The document challenges the purely materialistic assumption of global development planning. It looks at human nature and it declares that human nature is intrinsically spiritual. We are aspiring beings motivated by transcended ideals. Ideals like justice and compassion, community and wisdom."

According to Rosen, science and religion can see eye-to-eye in an attempt to find common ground.

"The complimentary nature of science and religion are when science and technology are guided by morality and spiritual principles and humanity's advancement knows no bounds," he said.

For excerpts from the meeting and to see the photo gallery go here.

Voice Local News Tuesday February 23^rd 2010

On Guard For Thee

Chilliwack Mountie Chosen As Flagbearer At Olympic Ceremonies

The best of the best

of the best

Craig Hill/Voice

As the 2010 Olympic games draw to a close

there'll be more pride, pomp and circumstance, more pageantry and more flag protocol ceremony duty for RCMP officers to perform. Cst. Rodzor Jean Baptitse

Back when the rest of us were being swept up in torch run fever, the Mounties put out a call amongst their own ranks for flagbearers at the opening and closing of the games. They were instantly swamped with a pool of hundreds of names to sift through.

What RCMP brass looked for were members who's ages and lifestyles paralleled the athletes competing in the games, or in other words, they wanted the best of the best of the best.

After rendering the list down to a cast of 64 officers, one of the names on the roster was Haitian-born, Chilliwack Cst. Rodzor Jean Baptitse.

Baptiste, an engineer by trade in Haiti, immigrated to Canada in 2003.

Frame capture from NBC footage

Chilliwack Cst. Baptiste (second from left) carries the flag

in the opening ceremonies at BC Place.

Once here, he tried to use the Haitian degree but it wasn't accredited in this country. Undaunted and determined to succeed in Canada, he enrolled in university courses only this time in accounting. By the end of 3-years he had both the degree and his Canadian citizenship.

Somewhere along the way he spotted an RCMP recruiting advertisement, signed up, was accepted and then went through rigorous training in Regina before graduating to his first posting in Chilliwack where he settled with his wife and two children.

Life was going to script for the Baptiste family in Canada. Then the earthquake hit. Two days before his wife had arrived in Haiti on a holiday trip to see family. All communications were severed and he had no way of knowing if she was alive or dead.

Finally, after several excruciating days, news came in that she was alive but his brother, aunt, cousin and many friends weren't as fortunate and perished in the catastrophe.

Last month, the Voice covered a story, (see Feb 1st. "Earthquake Hits Chilliwack RCMP Hard") about members from Crossfit Training in Chilliwack who came together and raised funds for Haitian relief after learning that one of their own had lost family in the quake. The money was donated to the Red Cross as per Baptiste's wishes.

Carrying the flag into BC Place couldn't have been an easy thing to do with only a couple of billion people watching. Baptiste calmly told media in Vancouver that he was thrilled to escort the flag into BC Place for the opening.

"I kept thinking, My God, is it really me in Canada, carrying the flag? A Mountie. I wanted to cry” he said with a strong French accent. "Once I stood on that stage, holding that flag, I knew I would never wear my red serge the same way again. It would never be a chore to polish my boots. I Governor General Michaelle Jean meets Cst. Baptiste at

am a Mountie. I am a the airport last Tuesday. (submitted photo)

Canadian."

On the following Tuesday, Baptiste had an equally inspiring moment at the airport when he met his idol, Governor General Michaelle Jean, also originally from Haiti. Plus, he'll once again have the honor of carrying the flag at the closing ceremonies next Sunday.

This is just one story, one thread, in the 2010 Olympic tapestry that has wound it's way through the hearts of Canadians. Clearly the RCMP couldn't have found anyone more Canadian or more proud to wear the red serge and wide stetson.

Baptiste and his family are doing what many born here won't ever accomplish –– they're living the Canadian Dream.

Last Week's Local News

Voice Local News Wednesday February 24^th 2010

Baggers and Bedposts

Bowl For The Kids

For Kids' Sake

Big Brothers & Big Sisters fundraiser kicks-off

March 12th

Staff report

There's A New Girl In Town

Shirley Wilson, is the new Executive Director of Big Brothers and Big Sisters for the Upper Fraser Valley, appeared on Starfm's morning show with Scott and Lisa to talk about the upcoming Bowl For Kids Sake in Chilliwack. The following is excerpts are from that conversation earlier this week.

Official Kick-off To The Bowl-a-thon

It's starting tomorrow morning (Tuesday) for all of our Fraser Valley agencies at the Abbotsford Sports Entertainment Centre at 8 am we're serving some current and past mayors some breakfast and we're going to Wii-bowl with some "littles."

Abbotsford Venue Shared With Olympic Festivities

We actually don't have to (move Olympic events and activities). We're going to be doing some "live" screen viewing of some hockey games but we're up in the VIP Lounge and if you've been up there, it's quite nice and long and we can actually set up some special tins and bowl as well.

Who'll Be Hangin'

Our Abbotsford mayor, George Ferguson, has agreed to step up, he's a little over 80-years-old now and he's going to bowl with a "little" and the Fraser Valley agencies, which are of course Upper Fraser Valley Big Brothers, Big Sisters, and Abbotsford, Mission, Ridge Meadows and Langley are all coming together with current dignitaries and former mayors who participated and supported youth in our community for all that time, about 40-years toll.

Practice Makes Perfect

I think is going to be one of those interesting challenges where the "littles" are going to have the home team advantage (over the "bigs").

On Wii Bowling

I have played Wii bowling and I am the big loser in my household.

The Main Event

Bowl For Kids' Sake is the Signature Fundraiser for Big Brothers & Big Sisters in the Upper Fraser Valley. It's a national event as well and locally it is extremely well supported and it's really important to Big Brothers - Big Sisters, this event.

Setting The Bar Higher This Year

This year we're looking to raise $80,000. It is a lot of money but will be well used. Last year's Bowl-A-Thon raised $72,000.

Bigs & Littles

We provide professional trained mentors who are screened and provide safe opportunities for our youth to be entered (in) with caring adults.

Wait Lists Are Worth Waiting For

It is been typically a 2-year wait for a young boy to be matched with a male. We do have a shortage of men who step up to be mentors. It is an unfortunate waiting list and we're trying to shorten that list.

Volunteers Are Ageless

There's no restrictions. They need to be an adult and they need to be able to complete the screening process successfully which is quite rigorous. It's one of the things that Big Brothers/Big Sisters is known for. In terms of the age, we actually are seeking some more senior citizens to come along and it's a great relationship between a "little" and a senior. We have a program called "Between Generations" but we also look for those young adult role models who are great and inspired and inspiring.

Oh Bowl For the Kids For Kids Sake!

March 5th is our first date and that's in Hope. We only have one lane left, that's great, and we start here on March 12th right to the 31st at Chillibowl and we have three of those sessions are sold out completely and we still have some other room available. Some are going quite quickly and some still have some other space, but we need to sell it out.

Registration and Pledges Online

This is our fourth year doing that and it's available and when it's used it's really great. It's efficient, it's safer than carrying cash on ya, so I highly encourage you to come to our website and use that option. It's really easy. You can just go online, register yourself or register your team and then you can e-mail directly from the website and you can encourage your friends to come right back online and make that donation on your behalf. There's actually a new added feature. You can upload a Facebook badge as well.

Great Prizes

If you're an individual bowler and you are the top pledge fundraiser you will actually win an exciting trip for two to Vegas.

To get signed up call Big Brothers at: 604-858-0828 or visit our website: www.bigbrothersandbigsisters.ca or drop by the office at: 45195 Wells Road.

New To Chilliwack?

Welcome Wagon

Call Carol

604-858-4662

Businesses welcome also!

www.welcomewagon.ca

Help Someone Who Needs You

St. John Ambulance

At Home, Work or Play

You see them at all of our local events. They do a great job serving Chilliwack but there aren't enough volunteers to attend every duty request call, so they need you.

#202 – 45928 Hocking Avenue, Chilliwack 604-792-1338

E-Mail: Chilliwack@bc.sja.ca

or visit their website: http://bc.sjatraining.ca/

Mother's Against Drunk Drivers Fraser Valley Chapter

Volunteers Needed For Chilliwack

Committed to stop impaired driving and support victims of this crime.

For more information visit the website:

www.maddufv.com

* Paralympics torch is in Hope, BC today. 3 pm to 6 pm at Memorial park downtown.

* Wicca-Pagan coffee meet 7 pm dragonfly_1237@hotmail.com for more info.

* Jewelry-making for kids at the Yarrow Library today, 2 to 4 pm, grade 5 and up.

* Pottery Tuesdays starts tonight, 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Arts Centre 604-792-2069

More info and things to do in Extra! Extra! below.

Top Local Headlines

Community Police

Crime Prevention

Needs Your Help

Volunteers needed.

Crime Prevention Office

45877 Wellington Ave.

604-393-3001

Voice On The Hill

The Voice is pleased to have MP for East Van Libby Davies giving us reports regarding her work on issues in Ottawa and Vancouver. Anyone who has met Libby and seen her in action over the years can attest to the fact that when she talks ... people listen.

This Week: March 4^th

An Intense Parliamentary Session Ahead

Debate to centre on PM's power as Parliament returns

The speech from the throne and the federal budget will be the top two items on Parliament's agenda when it reconvenes Wednesday after a lengthy and controversial prorogation. But the biggest political flashpoints in the coming session are likely to come over two other items that have a common denominator: attempts by the House of Commons to put some restrictions on the traditional powers and privileges of the prime minister.

"I think it's going to be a fairly intense session," said NDP House Leader Libby Davies. "It's going to be a difficult working environment."

This Week: February 24^th

Open Letter To Ministers

Helena Guergis
Minister of State Status of Women - 733 Confederation Building, House of Commons
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6

Dear Minister Guergis,

I write to urge you to commit to renewed funding for the Sisters in Spirit initiative of the Native Women's Association of Canada, without delay.

As the Minister of State for the Status of Women you have repeatedly praised the Sister in Spirit initiative in the House of Commons as being a “great research project...extremely successful in raising awareness to the issue of violence against aboriginal women and girls.”

As recently as December 2009, the Secretary of State for the Status of Women described the initiative as the “groundwork,” from which to “attack the root causes of violence against aboriginal women and girls.”

It is confusing then, why there has been hesitation from the Status of Women to move forward and implement the important programs identified and developed under this successful project.

The Sisters group is in a position to begin implementing child welfare, justice and anti-poverty programs to help some of the most vulnerable women and children in Canada, but cannot as they await word from your office as to their future.

Again, I ask that you act swiftly to approve funding for Sisters in Spirit to support the implementation of these important initiatives.

Continued here

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Next home game

Friday March 12^th vs. Portland - 7 pm

Fan Appreciation Night

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Tuesday

March 9^th 2010

Current Weather

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A Final Word

One or Two Pages Si Vous Plait!

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"Voice" your opinion with us!

February 18th 2009

Ray Ferris Speaks Out On Baynes's Children Custody Hearing

Dear Ed

One of your reporters was standing outside the Chilliwack court house a few days ago and gave me his card. I did not have time to talk to him, but I offer you the attached information, which is germane to his concerns. In addition to what is attached a couple of other issues have arisen.

A social worker admitted to having obtained a document illegally and having deleted all his emails dealing with the source of the document. Judge Crabtree has ordered him to retrieve them. Another important item is that the medical opinion evidence may be ruled inadmissible.

The judge has already banned the doctors from assuming any cause for any of the injuries. (The principle hear is that a doctor is not able to determine whether an injury is deliberate or accidental from medical evidence only.) The likelihood of deliberate injury is determined from a combination of medical evidence and profile. Profiles with a history of negligence and frequent injury, lack of lifeskills etc.

The Baynes present an excellent profile. With the medical evidence being so shaky, the ministry appears to be trying to re-invent the family profile by bringing on various character assassination witnesses who offer only smear and innuendo. They hide behind anonymous "collateral informants", which of course is pure hearsay.

Unfortunately, section 14 of the CF&CSA requires people to report if they have reason to believe a child is at risk, but nowhere is anonymity guaranteed. It is just that the ministry always try to operate in secrecy. They have a lot to hide.

Ray Ferris

Author of the "The Art of Child Protection"

The Voice welcomes readers to voice their opinion on any issue and we reserve the right to edit letters for diction and grammar or content. The viewpoint is that of the writer and The Voice may or may not agree with the author.

Write the editor: thevalleyvoice@shaw.ca

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Independent Community News, Commentary & Events

March 4^th 2010

March is Fraud Prevention

Awareness Month

Keep your identity Safe

Ottawa, March 1, 2006 — Law enforcement agencies from Canada and the United States joined forces today, in Ottawa, to officially launch Fraud Prevention Month and explain how partnerships are key in fighting the global scourge of fraud.

“Fraud is a serious problem that undermines consumer confidence and drains billions from legitimate markets around the world. It cannot be solved by law enforcement alone,” said Sheridan Scott, Commissioner of Competition. “As Chair of the Fraud Prevention Forum, we work closely with partners in law enforcement, consumer and volunteer groups, government and the private sector to fight fraud aimed at consumers and businesses.”

During the month of March, Fraud Prevention Forum (FPF) members will raise awareness of the dangers of fraud, while educating the public on how to “Recognize it, Report it and Stop it.” Millions of printed fraud prevention material will be distributed and public service announcements will air across the country, in English and French.

"The concept of crime prevention is to prevent victimization. By educating and involving the community in crime prevention initiatives, it is anticipated that we will see a reduction in crime,” said Detective Superintendent Bob Goodall, OPP Anti-Rackets Section. “It is essential that law enforcement, the private sector and consumers work together to identify, apprehend and prosecute those responsible and to prevent future occurrences."

The FPF’s reach is international. This month, over 24 countries who form the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network have committed to raising public awareness worldwide, with their own Fraud Prevention Month campaigns.

“Law enforcement agencies are very concerned about financial crime and we are working diligently with our domestic and international partners to combat this transnational problem,” said Wayne Watson, Chief Superintendent, RCMP.

“People operating frauds are increasingly using international borders to try to escape the consequences of their actions,” said C. Steven Baker, Director of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's Midwest Region. “The U.S. and Canada are leading the world in showing that we can work together and protect consumers on both sides of the border.”

Tips to Stay Safe

Keep personal information confidential

Do not give out personal information over the phone, through email or over the Internet unless you initiated the contact and know who you're dealing with. Do not include personal information in regular, unencrypted email or enter it on an unencrypted website as your information will not be secure.

Keep your personal information safe

An identity thief will pick through your garbage or recycling bins, so be sure to shred receipts, copies of credit applications, insurance forms, etc.

Protect your PIN and passwords

Do not reveal your PIN or passwords to anyone, including employees of RBC, family members and friends. When conducting a transaction at an ATM or retail (point-of-sale) location, keep your Client Card/Credit Card within sight and shield the keypad when entering your PIN.

Unusual transactions

Beware of "Too Good To Be True" offers. Be wary of unexpected offers or requests that are "too good to be true" such as "you've inherited a large sum of money but in order to claim it, send us a deposit first". You should also never agree to conduct financial transactions on behalf of strangers.

Contact the authorities

If you suspect you are a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately.

Report the crime

To report incidence of fraud or to learn more about how to protect themselves from fraud, Canadians can call PhoneBusters, the national anti-fraud call centre, at 1-888-495-8501. In addition, citizens are encouraged to contact the Chilliwack RCMP 604-792-4611

Canadians can also report fraud on-line through Reporting Economic Crime Online (RECOL) at www.recol.ca RECOL is an RCMP initiative that involves an integrated partnership between international, federal and provincial law enforcement agencies and the private sector.

Information here can be found on www.competitionbureau.gc.ca and safety tips from www.rbc.com

Note: Investment Fraud seminar March 25th at Evergreen Hall, 9 am

Director Kathryn Bigelow Makes History At Oscars With "Hurt Locker"

AP photo shows Marie Osmond at son's funeral.

Story snippets from AP writer Jennifer Dobbner.

PROVO, Utah – Marie Osmond's 18-year-old son was remembered at a funeral service Monday with fond words, laughter and music from his famous singing family. Michael Bryan's uncle, Donny Osmond, also appealed to God in an opening prayer. "Bless my sister," he said, breaking into tears. "Bless my sister and her family. He was a man of his word. He wasn't a talker, he was a doer." Police in Los Angeles have said Bryan died Feb. 26 from an apparent suicide after jumping from the eighth floor of the Metropolitan apartment building. An official cause of death is pending the results of an autopsy and toxicology tests. "Thank you for those beautiful 18 years," said Marie Osmond, who had not planned to speak at the service. The service ended with a traditional Mormon hymn, sung sweetly by Marie Osmond and her famous brothers — Alan, Merrill, Jay, Wayne, Donny and Jimmy.

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Chilliwack

Events

Listed below are current events in Chilliwack. Many are free and low-cost for you and your family to enjoy and participate in. Our budget at the Voice is a small one and we can't afford to attend all events however if you would like coverage for your event please e-mail us to make media pass arrangements. thevalleyvoice@shaw.ca

Complete events page here

March 9^th Tuesday - 4 pm to 6 pm
2010 Paralympics Torch Relay in Hope

The 2010 Paralympics Torch Relay will be much different from the Olympic Torch Relay as the lighting of the Paralympics Flame will not originate in Greece but will instead take place during a ceremony in Ottawa on March 3rd, 2010. The lighting ceremony will involve torchbearers who represent each province and territory.

March 9^th Thursday - 2 pm to 4 pm
Jewelry Making!
Grades 5 and up can learn to make beautiful earrings and bracelets with beads and wire! Registration required at the Yarrow Library 604-823-4664 or you can call Susan at: 604-793-7238 or e:mail to: sjbarclay@telus.net or visit their website: http://swiftcraftymonkey.blogspot.com

March 9^th Tuesday - 7 pm
Wicca - Pagan Coffee Meet
The Second Tuesday of every month at 7pm For details and location e-mail Kim at: dragonfly_1237

@hotmail.com

March 9^th Tuesdays - 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Pottery 2

Advanced pottery students can learn new wheel throwing techniques from a professional studio potter. Learn about altering and making functional vessels with handles, knobs, and lids, learn glazing techniques and how to load a kiln too, all through interesting projects. Glaze class held at “Greendale Pottery”; date TBA.

*Course cost plus $15.00 for clay. **Starter tool kits available for $20.00

Tuesdays | March 9 - April 13 (7 classes)

6:30 - 9:30pm | Kreative Kidz Room

m $190 ~ nm $210 | Ages 17+

Instructor: Holly McKeen Chilliwack Arts Council Phone (604) 792-2069 info@chilliwackartscouncil.com

March 10^th Tuesday - Day Trip
Seniors Bus Trip to Culinary School on Granville Island

Join a busload of friends for a tasty trip to Vancouver and see Granville Island. For more information call: 604-793-9979

March 10^th Wednesday - 7 pm
Chilliwack Mini Med School "What Was Your Doctor Thinking?"

Come join us for an evening of informative, and possibly life-altering learning. This is a free event open to everyone and run by the Chilliwack Family Medicine Residents. Presentations will be at Evergreen Hall, 9291 Corbould Street, in the Slesse Room, located one block from the hospital. All sessions will begin at 7pm, light refreshments and snacks will be served. For more information, please call 604-703-6968.

March 10^th Wednesday -10:30 to 11 am
The Trollsons Perform The Selkie at the Chilliwack Public Library
The Trollsons present a lively 30-minute storytelling show that the audience helps to tell! The Selkie is based on traditional folklore that appears in many different parts of the world. Audience members join in the action and become part of the unique storytelling style. This program is open to all families and ages. For more information call Wanda Lindsay 604-823-4664 or visit their website: www.fvrl.bc.ca

March 10^th Wednesday - 7 pm
Bright Star - Film Festival Movie 2 of 6

The Chilliwack Arts Council and the Toronto Film Festival co-present the Council's 2010 International Film Series. Tonight's movie is called "Bright Star". Movie is shown at the Paramount Theatre on Yale Rd. downtown. Tickets are only $5. Series passes for all 6 movies in the series will be available. For more information call the Chilliwack Community Arts Council: 604-792-2069

To find out more about these events and see the most comprehensive events listings page in Chilliwack go here.

Check out Canada's most famous astrologist Georgia

Nicols MA.

who writes the finest forecasts in your stellar news.

Why be a moon when you can be a star with Georgia's horoscopes! She is known all over the world for her intelligent, poignant and humorous horoscopes. The Voice is very fortunate to have her here in Chilliwack with us.

This Week

March 7^th to March 14^th

All Signs:

Mars has been retrograde since December 20 of last year. (Time flies when you’re unconscious.) Finally, this week it goes forward! This is why you felt you weren’t accomplishing much, or that whatever you were doing was an uphill struggle ...

Your weekly horoscope

Continued here.

The Stellar Voice

Made in

Canada

Made in

Canada

Today In History

March 9^th 2010

The 68^th day of the year
There are 297 days left in the year

1796 Napoleon Bonaparte, the future emperor of France, married Josephine de Beauharnais.

1862 During the Civil War, the ironclads Monitor and Virginia (formerly Merrimac) clashed for five hours to a draw at Hampton Roads, Va.

1916 Mexican raiders led by Pancho Villa attacked Columbus, N.M., killing more than a dozen people.

1933 Congress, called into special session by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, began its 100 days of enacting New Deal legislation.

1934 Yury Gagarin, the world's first man in space, was born. He died on March 27, 1968

1945 U.S. B-29 bombers launched incendiary bomb attacks against Japan during World War II, causing widespread devastation.

1954 CBS newsman Edward R. Murrow critically reviewed Wisconsin Sen. Joseph R. McCarthy's anti-Communism campaign on "See It Now."

1959 Mattel's Barbie doll, created by Ruth Handler, made its public debut at the American International Toy Fair in New York.

1975 Work began on the Alaskan oil pipeline.

1977 About a dozen armed Hanafi Muslims invaded three buildings in Washington D.C., killing one person and taking more than 130 hostages. The siege ended two days later.

1981 Dan Rather made his debut as principal anchorman of "The CBS Evening News;" he signed off for the last time on the same date in 2005.

1989 The Senate rejected President George H.W. Bush's nomination of John Tower to be defense secretary on a 53-47 vote.

1992 Former Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin died at age 78.

1997 Gangsta rapper The Notorious B.I.G. was killed in a drive-by shooting in Los Angeles at age 24.

2004 Convicted sniper John Allen Muhammad was sentenced to death in Virginia.

2006 Bowing to ferocious opposition in Congress, a Dubai-owned company relinquished its quest to take over operations at U.S. ports.

The main source for text information here is the NY Times Inc. in addition to assorted Canadian news sites. Images are borrowed from various websites.

The Valley Voice is hosted by Electric Toad

www.etwebhosting.com

Awesome web hosting packages

& excellent service. Thanks guys!

Made in

Canada

A Message From The Publisher

The Valley Voice is new and striving for perfection. Help keep our information relevant and up-to-date. If you find errors or missing information in the news items, please let us know. We're here to serve you and the Chilliwack community.

The Valley Voice's mandate is to provide unbiased and independent news for Chilliwack. We are small-town-friendly and answer all of our e-mails. We're never too busy to ignore people who write us that want a voice or wish to become involved.

Local writers and shooters are welcome to submit event stories/photos. We always accept local Chilliwack news tips, story ideas, comments and photo submissions from the community. If you are interested contact me at the e-mail address below.

Community papers are about the community and my experience in the past with producing local newspapers has always involved all members of the community. Informed people who know their community.

My credentials aren't backed by stacks of degrees nor do I need them to write coherently about what's going on in the community. I have spent a few years in the trenches writing about and living in Vancouver's infamous downtown eastside. In fact I lived 3 blocks from Main & Hastings, ground zero, for ten years and during that time carved out a passion to provide real honest news with integrity and conviction and a passion to serve the community.

I've come to know this community as well as anyone in Chilliwack. I've lived here for almost 10 of my 51 years of existence. Grandma on mother's side lived here for 75 years and raised 10 kids (Irene Armstrong) and Grandpa, on my father's side, owned the old Cottonwood Corners restaurant in the 1950's (Ivor Hill) and was a great fly fisherman back when you could haul steelhead as big as a Mac truck out of the Vedder River. Grandma's (Jeanette Quesnel) gr-grandfather also on dad's side, was Jules Maurice Quesnel who trekked across Canada and then down the Fraser River with Simon Fraser in 1808 and after whom the city and river of Quesnel are named.

At this site's inception it was my intention to have an advertisement-free not-for-profit news website however I would like to pay our writers and columnists for their great stuff. So with that in mind, any revenue that The Valley Voice generates through the site will be used solely for the purpose of paying writers and photographers for their work and for the costs of running and upgrading the website's bandwidth.

It might be that at some point in the future, with support from the community, we'll go to print with your news in an interesting, informative and entertaining format based on my own experience producing Spare Change newspaper in Vancouver, a grassroots social-minded community paper and producing magazines with industry leaders like Squire Barnes from Global TV Sports as well as working with other local community newspapers.

Thank you for visiting and I hope that you will make this a part of your daily, weekly or monthly internet reading itinerary.

Craig Hill

The Valley Voice News

thevalleyvoice at shaw.ca

The Big Voice

Broadcasting Hall-of-Famer Rafe Mair and Canada’s best known political commentator has joined us at the Voice with his "The Flow" column.

Rafe's hard-hitting no nonsense perspective makes him a hero to some, to be vilified by others. Love him or hate him he is sure to stir the pot on up-to-date and relevant issues that affect us all.

This Week: March 5^th
Morton's Case Against Fish Farms

The plain fact is that Alexandra Morton shouldn't have to prove a damned

thing.

By international law we're bound by the Precautionary Principle, meaning that those who would invade the environment must demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that they can do so safely. To put it bluntly, industry has done absolutely nothing to meet the onus of the Precautionary Principle.

All the fish farmers have proved is that they've contributed to Campbell's party and all the Campbell government has proved is that they got the message loud and clear.

The Campbell government, when it comes to the environment, doesn't give a damn what it does or says as long as

the money's there.

Since Alex blew the whistle nearly a decade ago every independent fisheries scientist has confirmed that sea lice from fish farms were wiping out migrating wild salmon smolts. Every peer reviewed paper confirms Alex's findings all of which were also peer reviewed.

Campbell Knew All Along

Campbell, who makes Pinocchio a minor leaguer, has consistently alleged

that he has science on his side yet is unable to produce a single independent report to support him.

"Knew all along" - a tough charge?

Not a bit. Because, you see, BC wasn't the first place to have their wild salmon savagely destroyed by lice from fish farms. When I met with Irish scientists under the eminent Dr. Patrick Gargan a few years ago in Galway, one of them looked at me at said, and these were his words which I won't mince: "Can't ye fucking well read out there in Canada? Don't you know what happened in Norway ... Scotland ... here in Ireland? Can't ye fucking read?"

We can, but Gordon Campbell won't.

The federal government was also warned in 1991. Norwegian MP John

Lilletun came to Canada to tell us that Norwegian salmon farmers were

coming here to get away from higher environmental standards they faced

back home. Clearly, the warning fell on deaf ears.

The Former Norwegian Attorney General Speaks Out

Many of us could read and spoke out again and again based upon this

evidence. Now we can hear from Georg Fredrik Rieber-Mohn, a Norwegian

judge who, as Attorney-General drew up important environmental protection guidelines for Norwegian fish farms. Here's what he recently said - and I advise Campbell and his toadies to cover their eyes. During his remarks he alluded to the pending hockey game between Canada and Norway and said this:

In 1999, I was proud to present the so-called "wild salmon plan" which

proposed national protection for the 50 best salmon rivers and the 9 most important fjord-systems across Norway - the national laksfjords - where salmon farms would be prohibited.

However, intense lobbying from the salmon farming industry watered down the proposals so that by the time they passed the parliament in 2007 the protected fjords had become smaller and gave less protection against the salmon farming industry.

The result has been a heavy defeat for wild salmon and a huge win for sea lice. Scientific research published by the Norwegian Institute of Nature Research indicates that the areas protected from open net cage salmon farms are simply too small to offer adequate protection from sea lice.

Scientists in Norway detail growing sea lice resistance to the chemicals designed to kill them. The Norwegian Food and Safety Authority recently reported nearly 100 cases of chemical treatment failures as sea lice are now immune.

So serious is the situation that the Directorate of Nature Management - the Norwegian Government's conservation adviser - has called for drastic reductions in farmed salmon production and slaughter of farm stock to reduce the sea lice burden.

Put simply, we had an open goal to save wild salmon but we missed the

target. Now we are dealing with the consequences of poor defending.

Atlantic salmon in the wild in Norway are now threatened with extinction

in many rivers in Norway. There are many causes to this decline, but in

vast areas the farming of salmon is the main factor. Escaped farmed salmon is a huge problem added to the problem of uncontrolled growth of sea lice. Scientists foresee remarkable damaging effects in new areas in

the future

In Norway we are underdogs to save wild Atlantic salmon - like in today's hockey game - but nature is resilient and wild salmon can make a comeback if given a fair chance.

The lessons to be learned from Norway are painfully clear but the solution is an easy one.

If you want to protect wild salmon then you have to move salmon farms

away from migration routes. Juvenile wild salmon have to run the gauntlet past salmon farms on their way out to sea and scientific reports show that they are decimated by sea lice - with

reports of up to 90% mortality in some regions.

Even the owner of Marine Harvest - the world's largest salmon farming company and #1 in both Norway and in British Columbia - agrees that we

must move the farms. When he was fishing on the River Alta - one of

Norway's most majestic wild salmon rivers - in 2007 John Fredriksen made

a plea as a passionate angler to relocate open net cages to save wild

salmon.

Last year, I was honoured to meet with sea lice scientist Alexandra Morton in Oslo. I listened with a sense of deja vu as she outlined how Norwegian companies - who control over 90% of BC's salmon farms - are spreading sea lice to wild salmon. I watched Canadian filmmaker Damien Gillis's film "Dear Norway" Help Us Save Wild Salmon" and I was struck by a strong sense of solidarity and eerie familiarity (my

pride in the work done by my colleagues merited my emphasis.)

Yet there is still hope for wild salmon in both Norway and Canada. With

the world watching there is a growing sense of public awareness globally

and a passion to save wild salmon./

In the name of God, won't Campbell and federal fisheries minister Gail

Shea not listen now?

Heroes and Villains

We in BC have an industry, two governments and a media we should be

thoroughly ashamed of. On the other hand, we have a gallant lady who came from California to watch whales and stayed to make the saving of our wild salmon a sacred task and getting nothing but abuse for her efforts from industry, government and media.

Alexandra Morton deserves the undying affection and deepest gratitude of

us all.

You can show your support via Rafe's websites:
More here in The Flow

www.rafeonline.com

www.saveourrivers.ca

Free Valley Voice Photos!

Any of our gallery photographs of community or other news/events are free for the asking. Just drop us a note and we'll e-mail them back as .jpg files to you or right-click and save.

Recycle Your Cellular Phone

Chilliwack Locations

Rogers Plus 46030 Yale

Can Talk 45905 Yale

Apex Comm 45300 Luckakuck

Bell Cottonwood Mall

PCS Wireless Cottonwood Mall

Rogers Wireless Cottonwood Mall

Clearwest Solutions 7544 Vedder

For locations near you visit www.recyclemycell.ca

Fred's Custom Tackle

February

Fishing

Report

This report of current local conditions is with thanks to Fred Helmer of Fred's Custom Fishing & Tackle and to the BC Sportsfishing Group in Agassiz.

Click here for current river conditions

Got Your License?

Drop in to Fred's and get your new licenses or at least pre register and get your new anglers ID number that you will keep forever. The licenses are up and running so come get your license today.

New!! SIMMS Products including waders now available at Fred's Custom Tackle!! Excellent Rod & Reel packages for $99 and up!

Wally Hall Steelhead Derby runs from Dec 1st to Mar 31, 2010.

Remember to enter the Wally Hall Steelhead Derby which runs from Dec 1st to Mar 31, 2010. Whether you're in the derby or just fishing for fun, every Steelhead weighed in at Fred's Custom Tackle receives a discount off any regular priced item (excluding Simms products) in the store on the day of your weigh-in relative to the size of your fish. For example, if the fish is under 15 pounds you receive a 10% discount. 15-20 pounds - 15% and fish over 20 pounds - 20 %. Sounds like fun, that is the whole idea. Good luck...

Tuesday March 9^th

Local Fishing Report

Chilliwack /Vedder River

Fishing has been slowing, but the river has 4 ft visibility and is very fishable. The rain didn't affect the river much and there is snow in the higher elevations. We need some more rain to bring in some fresh fish.

The Tradex Sportsman Show starts this Friday and goes through to Sunday, we will have a booth there.

Fraser River

Water levels have looking good for this time of year. The Trout fisherman are taking advantage of the great weather. Reports are decent from the fly and spinning guys. Sturgeon fishing is good. Remember that the water temperatures are cold so the fish are usually in the deeper holes. Sturgeon fishing is productive but the fish are not real active, please handle these great fish with care especially during the cold temperatures.

Harrison River

If we do get a chance to head over to the Harrison, the weather and water conditions are great. The entire system can produce some nice Cutties at this time of year. The area around the mouth of the Chehalis is typically the best.

Chehalis River

The river low and clear. Some rain may help but it really needs some better flow to improve conditions. If it does rain, try heading out on that day or the day after.

Fraser Valley Lakes
Winter months are tough, however you may do well on the lower lakes along the shore if the weather allows. A winter day near the water is always a pleasure, a few fish can make it perfect.

Interior Lakes
The winter months are here and so is the ice. Dress warm and enjoy.

Fred's Custom Tackle

1 - 5580 Vedder Road in Chilliwack.
Phone: 604-858-7344 or Toll-free: 1-888-858-7344

BC Sportfishing Group 100 Esplanade Ave. Harrison Hot Springs BC or call (604) 796-3345 to book your guided trip.

Sign-up for the BC Sportfishing Newsletter and get professional fishing advice.