“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.”

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 .

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.

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

Experience the wide variety of Festivals and Events showcasing our local culture, natural surroundings, and the talented people of our community. Whether you are a participant, volunteer or organizer, this is your source for information.

Please Note:  Event listings are provided as a community service only. All postings are created by event organizers. Please confirm date, time, location and other details through the contact information listed with each event.

Maple Ridge employees value their co-workers, the variety in their work and the organization’s positive culture and work environment. The convergence of great community and great cooperation make the District of Maple Ridge a very attractive place to work. If you are interested in learning more about a career with the District, please visit the Careers section on our website.

The Community Heritage Commission celebrates Heritage Week annually with the Maple Ridge Heritage Awards event. This event is intended to honour and celebrate those whose work has demonstrated excellence in community heritage conservation. This year’s event will be held at St. Andrew’s Heritage Church Hall – 22279 116 Avenue (west side of Haney Bypass). Reception with refreshments to follow. Entertainment will be provided by the Lava Lights jazz ensemble.
 
For more information, please visit our website or contact Lisa Zosiak at lzosiak@mapleridge.ca or 604-467-7383.

2012 will be a great year for neighbourhoods in our communities! To kick off the year Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services, together with the Neighbourhood Champions group, will bring back internationally renowned champion of neighbourhoods Jim Diers to speak about the power and value of neighbourhoods. Jim presented to our communities in July and his stories inspired many people. Due to popular demand, Jim is coming back to talk about the importance of neighbourhoods for those who missed him the first time, and to expand on his first presentation.

The conference and workshops are free and open to all members of the community. Plan to be inspired at the South Bonson Community Centre. Register with Pat Shiratti—604-467-7433 or pshiratti@mapleridge.ca.