Archive for the ‘News’ Category

Council discussed a resolution that a letter be sent to Premier Christy Clark:

“That a letter be sent to Premier Christy Clark seeking support from the Provincial Government for the District of Maple Ridge’s motion in support of optional refusal of installation of wireless smart meters for citizens of British Columbia; and

That the letter stress that there is an expectation of public engagement, transparency and accountability related to decisions made by the Provincial Government and its crown corporations and that decisions such as the installation of smart meters by BC Hydro involve public engagement prior to the decision being made.”

Donovan’s Echo, a feature film starring Danny Glover was shot in various locations in Maple Ridge last year.   The thriller was directed by Jim Cliffe, a first-time feature director and will open in select theatres Friday, Feb. 24th.  For the complete news article please visit The Province website at http://www.theprovince.com/entertainment/movie-guide/year+mission+director/6175406/story.html

Invite your neighbours to join you at the …Neighbourhood Conference & Workshop 2012. An opportunity to affect change where we live.

South Bonson Community Centre Saturday February 25 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Morning

• (9:00 am to 9:30 am) – Networking & Community Displays
• (9:30 am to 12 noon) -Jim Diers – Neighbourhood Power – Engaging Citizens to Create Community – The Role of Neighbourhood Associations Network

Lunch Provided (12 noon- 12:45 pm)

Afternoon

(12:45 pm – 3:30 pm) – Neighbourhood Sharing Presentations

• Overview of Neighbourhood Development
• Port Haney Neighbourhood Change Initiative
• Thornhill Hall
• Ruskin Hall
• West Ridge Good Neighbours
• Shoreline Strata
• Alouette Valley Association

(3:30 – 4:00 pm) Next Steps – Neighbourhood Matching Funds – Get involved, lead the change.

Prepare to be inspired by an internationally renowned champion of neighbourhoods and building community from within. Jim has helped affect far-reaching changes in the way local governments all over the world approach neighbourhood issues and participation.

At this full-day conference, you will hear how neighbourhood groups in Seattle and communities around the world are working with the support of their local governments to imagine and realize beautification projects, economic revitalization, community gardens and parks. Jim will also provide examples of and introduce techniques for engaging citizens in community. He will also talk about the role that neighbourhood association networks can play in building community.

In the afternoon you will learn how neighbourhoods in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows are already connecting. As well, you will have the opportunity to help guide the next steps in creating strong neighbourhoods in our communities.

Please note that participation is limited and registration is required. RSVP to Pat Shiratti pshiratti@mapleridge.ca or 604-467-7342 by Wednesday, February 22. For more information contact: Tony Cotroneo, Recreation Manager – 604-467-7392 tcotroneo@mapleridge.ca .

Monthly History Article (excerpt from Maple Ridge – A History of Settlement)

For many years residents received their mail at the Haney Post Office where the mail was addressed to East Haney to facilitate the mail sorting. In 1907 a post office was established in postmaster Bob Ritchie’s house on the northeast corner of the present Lougheed Highway and 240 Street. After the first World War the name Albion was suggested for the postal area. Mail came to Albion via the Canadian Pacific Railway where the mail car was equipped with two mechanical arms which picked up the mail bag from a track-side rack. Simultaneously, the train mailman kicked off the incoming mail bag.

Group or Corporate Volunteer Opportunities

Have fun and give back to your community through volunteering as a group. Build leadership and team spirit by choosing a Community Special Event or Park Cleanup for your next team/staff volunteer opportunity. Please contact the Festival and Volunteer Office at festival@mapleridge.ca or call 604-467-7325 (extension 1) to discuss opportunities and to suggest projects