Sunday, December 30, 2012

Last Entry of 2012

Hello all,

     The pre-holiday and holiday season was very busy this year.  Consequently, this blog finds itself here, with no specific topics, but mention of a couple that came up over the last finite period of time.

     The news of the local municipality agreement on the 'parks model' was welcome news.  Although we aren't going into specific detail, the lands proposed for parks are all generally desirable.  We shall have more information in the new year as more is determined from the process that is underway.  Revisitation to the O.C.P. will be blogged here in the new year among other subjects.

     In regards with the meat regulations, it is disappointing to not have any official publication from the Provincial Minister of Agricultural, Mr. Norm Letnick.  (Concerning the "Class D & E" licenses issuance, in the Okanagan Valley.)  Although nothing has come in 2012 we hope that it is one of the newly written topics of 2013.
     As the minister himself encourages "buyling local" produce (including "meats".)  http://www.kelownadailycourier.ca/letters-to-the-editor/buying-local-is-the-best-deal-122412.html (dated Dec.24th, 2012.)
     From the Morning Star - Nov. 2012
http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/177974421.html
     From the Morning Star - from Oct. 2012
http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/174856031.html .

     These two topics are the ones we have blogged about for now.  We shall 'sign-off' in 2012 with best wishes for the holiday season.  May everyone have an enjoyable, safe, "Happy New Year".

See you in 2013...

Thursday, November 22, 2012

November's Entry

Greetings again bloggers,

     Amazing how fast the year goes by, we welcome the blogspot "poster" back from her holidays from the Southern Hemisphere.

     Issue of recent development is the "BX Ranch Property" that has been listed for sale. 
        http://www.bennetto.ca/index.php/listings/lots-acreages/4122-east-vernon-road

     It is significant in size at 166 acres of flat, irrigated (although one corner has birds that visit in the 'marsh-like' area which implies a water source.)  It is in the Agricultrual Land Reserve but this wouldn't stop urban development (of some sort in our personal opinion.)

     Many possible uses of this land area as a park could include:
  • Some land for Community Gardens use;
  • Land for People's recreation (walking, jogging, picnics, bandshell??? etcetera);
  • Portion for equestrian exercise;
  • Portion (near 39th Ave) for the wild birds (and Frogs) which could be viewed at a distance with binoculars.
     If anyone else has suggestions, please leave them in the comment section or email the Regional District of the North Okanagan, City of Vernon, District of Coldstream.  (Links are below...)

Regional District of the North Okanagan: http://www.rdno.ca/index.php/contact-us

City of Vernon:  (Land Use Dept.) http://www.vernon.ca/services/pde/

District of Coldstream:  http://www.districtofcoldstream.ca/contact/index.php


Comments or thoughts on other subjects are always welcome as well.
Safe wishes for this winter season's activities.

Stay tuned for more blogs......

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

October's Blog

Greetings again bloggers,

This post would have been done sooner, however, the fall season has left many of us busy with the usual expectations (fall leaves, seasonal harvests, etc.) and then the unexpected expectations (high fire risk, dry conditions etc.) as well.  Unfortunately this blog will be 'short and sweet' as some directors have been busy, however, we will have more information after this month's meeting.

The "TDTree Day" at BX Ranch Park went well from our information.  That event had transpired last month (Sept. 2012) and will probably be done again next year as well.  If you have any comments/thoughts on this, please feel free to leave them below in the "Comment" section.

Some other things in the works (tentatively) are:
  • A seed/plant swap that is being thought about for next spring.
  • A youtube channel so that more can become aware of the the association's activities.
Alas, I misplaced my notes so the other subjects/items will have to be included in the next blog.

Lastly, the end of this month sees the annual tradition of "Halloween" (so despite it being early), a reminder for everyone to plan their activities (no matter what your age) and give yourself some extra time (for unexpected developments), so that everyone can have a creative, enjoyable, festive and (most importantly) safe Halloween.

So if you have any comments/suggestions for the topics above (or any others that are on your mind) please leave them in the comment section below.

Thank-you for your time and comments.


Friday, August 31, 2012

Weekday Questionnaire Results

Hello again,

Here's the weekday results now tabulated.  They are below for review.


Weekday Questionnaire Results
(Aug. 27th, 2012)
(Total = 35: Degree of error +/- 1%.)

1) As a Park User, how frequently do you use the Park?
once a month = 4 (11%), once every couple weeks = 9 (26%)
once a week = 2 (6%), multiple times per week = 17 (49%)
multiple times per day = 4 (11%)

2) What riding/electoral area do you live in?
City of Vernon = 25 (71%), District of Coldstream = 8 (23%)
Regional Area "B" = 3 (9%), Regional Area "C" = 3 (9%)
Other = 0 (0%)

3) Do you bring your dog(s) to the park?
Yes =35 (100%), No = 0 (0%)

4) Do you like access to a dog permitted park?
Yes = 33 (94%), No = 0 (0%)

5) Do you think Dogs should be on a leash their entire time at the Park?
Yes = 0 (0%), No = 34 (97%)

6) Would you like to see a fenced "picnic" area?
Yes = 19 (54%), No = 14 (40%)

7)
What equipment or facilities do you feel could be added to the Park?portable toilets = 23 (66%) , garbage containers = 21 (60%)
picnic tables = 21 (60%), 'playground' equipment = 9 (26%)
open air shelter = 11 (31%)

8) What feature of this Park is your favorite?
Creek = 17 (49%), Trails/Open Area = 5 (14%)
Off Leash = 7 (20%), Picnic Table(s) = 1 (3%)
'All of it' = 5 (14%)

9) As a Park User, what is your primary use?
exercise = 27 (77%), picnics = 0 (0%), relaxation = 15 (43%)

10) How many family members access the park?
one = 8 (23%), two = 14 (40%), three = 8 (23%)
four or more = 3 (9%)

11) What is your opinion of the park's condition?
Excellent = 12 (34%), Very Good = 16 (46%)
Satisfactory = 4 (11%), Poor = 2 (6%)

12) Would you like to see or attend a summertime community event at the BX Ranch Park?
Yes = 21 (60%), No = 11 (31%)

13) Would you like to see a Light installed in the Parking lot of the Park?
Yes = 22 (63%),No = 10 (29%)

14) Were you aware that this Community Park is a "multiple use" park?
Yes = 23 (66%), No = 8 (23%)

15) As an area resident/taxpayer, would you support these possibilities through municipal taxation?
Yes = 27 (77%), No = 3 (9%)
-------------------------
Thanks for all those who participated.  The results are quite interesting.  If you would like to leave a comment, please do.

Lastly, if anyone would like PDF's, please email the assoc. at the email address: www.bxslca@hotmail.com, thanks.

Weekend Questionnaire Results

Hello all,

The participating directors thank everyone who took the time to fill out the questionnaire at the "BX Ranch Park".  The responses were very interesting.  Now, since they are tabulated, they are here for all to review.

Weekend Questionnaire Results
Weekend Survey (July 28th & 29th, 2012)
(Total = 162: Degree of error +/- 1%.)
1) As a Park User, how frequently do you use the Park?
once a month = 15 (9%), once every couple weeks = 16 (10%)
once a week = 34 (21%), multiple times per week = 85 (53%)
multiple times per day = 12 (7%)

2) What riding/electoral area do you live in?
City of Vernon = 104 (64%)
District of Coldstream = 20 (12%)
Regional Area "B" = 13 (8%)
Regional Area "C" = 11 (7%)
Other = 12 (7%)

3) Do you bring your dog(s) to the park?
Yes =156 (96%), No = 6 (4%)

4) Do you like access to a dog permitted park?
Yes = 162 (100%), No = 0 (0%)

5) Do you think Dogs should be on a leash their entire time at the Park?
Yes = 2 (1%), No = 160 (99%)

6) Would you like to see a fenced "off leash" area specifcally for dog use?
Yes = 49 (30%), No = 95 (59%)

7) What equipment or facilities do you feel could be added to the Park?
portable toilets = 84 (52%), garbage containers = 102 (63%)
picnic tables = 49 (30%), 'playground' equipment = 22 (14%)
open air shelter = 43 (27%)

8) What feature of this Park is your favorite?
Creek = 85 (52%), Trees/Open Area = 28 (17%)
Off Leash = 26 (16%), Walking Area = 23 (14%)
Dog viewing = 2 (1%), Socializing = 5 (3%)

9) As a Park User, what is your primary use?
exercise = 133 (82%), picnics = 8 (5%), relaxation = 60 (37%)

10) How many family members access the park?
one = 32 (20%), two = 73 (45%), three = 25 (15%)
four or more = 32 (20%)

11) What is your opinion of the park's condition?
Excellent = 39 (24%), Very Good = 70 (43%)
Satisfactory = 39 (24%), Poor = 13 (8%)

12) Would you like to see or attend a summertime community event at the BX Ranch Park?
Yes = 96 (59%), No = 55 (34%)

13) Would you like to see a Light installed in the Parking lot of the Park?
Yes = 113 (68%), No = 39 (24%)

14) Were you aware that this Community Park is a "multiple use" park?
Yes = 96 (59%), No = 65 (40%)

15) As an area resident/taxpayer, would you support these possibilities through municipal taxation?
Yes = 127 (78%), No = 24 (15%)

Some Comments:
  • "Lots of land that deserves more than just being thought of as a "Dog Park.""
  • "I am visiting from Calgary & Google states that there are washrooms. I was disappointed that that there wasn't."
  • "More Parks that have shade for the summertime!!!"
  • "Do not dump snow - it contaminates soil & water."
  • "Mutual respect of users is very important. Mowing more often would help us find feces to pick up. Appreciate being able to have off leash area this large for my dog. Thanks to the volunteers for collecting this information. Park boundary by bridges is not very clear for where your allowed to go, some people can't read map board well & a sign saying leaving park may help with keeping the neighbors happy."
  • "Truly believe that dogs past the bridge certainly NOT the biggest worry."
  • "Grass cut, cut the weeds and fix the bridge."

* Some questions (#7, #8 & #9) are multiple answer questions.
** Also any discrepancy in percentages is attributed to some answers being left blank.


Thanks again, if you would like to leave a comment below on this (or other subject matter) please do!

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Early August Blog

Hello Bloggers et al,

This month's blog will be a brief one as the summertime activities are all back to normal.  So please mind the campfires as the area as the conditions for fires have increased.   Onto recap a few subjects...

1)  The East Vernon Rd section that BX Creek had washed out is temporarily repaired.  So traffic can now traverse the creek but it is bumpy and caution is advised.  As far as we know, Tillicum Rd. hasn't been fixed yet.  If anyone has information about that area please place it in the comments section.

2)  The association's directors have been at the "BX Ranch Park" for a couple days with informal questionnaires.  The response from these has been impressive.  A total to date is 162 completed questionnaires.  The directors will be at the park sometime during the weekday evenings.  This was a suggestion from a few park users that weekday evenings are when others (who don't use it on the weekends) are in attendance.   The specific day isn't decided yet, but we are estimating a window of 5-8pm (approximately) to make the questionnaires available.  Thank you all for the participation and comments.  Kudos to the park users who help maintain the cleanliness of the park.  Will keep bloggers informed of the results after they are all filled out and collected.  After the results are tabulated, the questionnaires will be forwarded to the Regional District of the North Okanagan for consideration on what ammenties the park could use (as suggested by park users.)

3)  The 'seed swap' is still being considered as a park event in the next spring.  More to follow once it has been worked out.  One question in the questionnaire was "Would you like to attend a summer event at the BX Ranch Park?"  So if there are suggestions for an event, please leave them in the comments section below.

4)  Alas, the berry season is apparently finishing.  However, the apricots and peaches are next and the apples will be ready in Sept.  The harvest will be eagerly anticipated.

Thanks to all who view the blog and we will post more soon.

Thursday, July 19, 2012

July's Posting...

Hello all,

Hope your enjoying the summer weather that has caught up to the calender.

To start off, those of us that travel East Vernon Rd. (& Tillicum Rd.) are still waiting for the roads to be usable.  Although alternate routes are available, it is quite inconvenient to not have the full options available to traverse through the BX area.  As one observation has been noted in the paper.  Letter to the editor here: http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/opinion/letters/161508425.html  So, the last time that these areas washed out, (I believe it was in 1996) the road had suffered more damage and the repairs included a temporary bridge and it was repaired in a timely manner (without the extended waiting period.)  Some have voiced their displeasure on the length of time that this is taking, as the repair has yet to be done.  Anyone and everyone, who may wish to acknowledge their opinions can send an email to the Provicial Minister of Transportation.  The website has this as a contact email:
mailto:Minister.Transportation@gov.bc.ca
Phone/Fax:  Telephone: 250 387-1978  Fax: 250 356-2290
or a printed/typed letter to be mailed to
"Honourable Blair Lekstrom, PO BOX 9055 STN PROV GOVT, Victoria, B.C. V8W 9E2"
(If anyone has problems with the above link the source website is here http://www.gov.bc.ca/tran/contacts.html#minister)

Just F.Y.I., the "BX Ranch Park" is a heritage park that allows dog use, not an official "Dog Park" as a recently removed sign otherwise indicated.  If anyone has thoughts, suggestions or comments on the Park's future direction, please share them in the "Comment" section.  Or email the Assoc. at bxslca@hotmail.com .
Look for a couple directors (from the Association) on site with a 'survey questionaire' (in early Aug. 2012) to receive feedback on the park from the users of the park as well as other interested individuals.  These questionnaire responses will be forwarded to the Regional Distict for consideration.

Cherries are certainly looking (and tasting) delicious.  All other berries in season also are very enjoyable.  We look forward to a good apple (and other fruits harvest.)  Vegtables are their own schedule, but look equally enjoyable.

Further comments on the improvements near Stickle Rd. should be completed in a couple weeks.  The work done to now is a greatly improved image that beautifies the entrance to the Vernon area.

That's all for now, more to follow in a short while...

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Summertime has (Officially) Arrived!!!

Hello Everyone,

This entry is a little later than expected.  However, everyone is probably busy with gardening and yard work.  The extended precipitation has been problematic in areas but has been great for local scenery.  All the hills being green is nice for a change.  All the birds and wildlife enjoy the 'wet' season as well.  Great for gardens, great for the water bill.

For anyone who may be interested.  There is the "TD Tree Day" event at the BX Ranch Park in September 2012.  To register follow the link below. There is a limit of 25 registrants, but the park will not be closed – the cap is due to the fact that they will be providing refreshments for 25 people, and five plants per registrant.
Go here to be one of the 25 people planting that day: http://www.treedays.com/

More to be added shortly, once information is confirmed...stay tuned.

Of course, comment and suggestions are welcome below on topics you're thinking about.

Above all, enjoy the summer (whatever weather it may bring.)

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Summer has Arrived !!!

Greetings Bloggers,

     Summer has arrived, despite some liquid sunshine, it is pretty official when the bird broods are getting out and about, the pollinators are around (bees, butterflies, etcetera) and the 'orchestra' of lawnmowers are heard (usually) on weekends.

     Upgrade of the area along Stickle Rd., Area "B".  Native plants to be introduced as they are more eye-appealing landscape.  Drip irrigation is to be installed.  Completion to be done this summer.  We are looking forward to see the completed work.

     The association is discussing a potential 'seed swap', possibly held at the BX Ranch Park.  This is only in a brainstorming phase currently.  However, if people that have grown their own plants and leave approximately 10% for seed, everyone with seeds could participate.  We request if this transpires that people bring seeds they have actually grown, not 'cheat'.  More information will appear here once discussion and some direction has been decided.  Comments and suggestions are welcome on this idea.

     After our next Directors' meeting, we will have information pertaining to our next year's Annual General Meeting venue.  Over the last couple years, the venue had changed which may have been confusing to our membership.  We will be more definitive in the near future.

     Thanks to all the readers of this blog.  Please feel free to express your points of view in the comment section.  Suggestions are accepted as well, also please share the blog with anyone that is interested.

Until next time...

Thursday, May 10, 2012

May et al

Hello Bloggers,

Just a quick one here to keep in touch.  May has brought all the ususal outside work that we all know and love, when not enjoying the 'liquid sunshine.'  Frost may appear this evening of the 10th, so cover up (any and all young sprouted plants.)  The various trees and plants blooming, always creates a beautiful, picturesque display.  Not to mention the fragrances that accompany them as well.  Kudos to all the new interested gardeners, local vendors will assist with what information they have at your request.

With the change in the season, summer sports (soccer, cycling, etcetera) have now commenced.  Good luck to all participants (of all ages and levels) in atheletic activities.  Group sports or individual sports helps keep you moving. (Of course, this is when your not gardening. Tee Hee)

We are planning to do two blogs per month (even more, but we shall see.)  As to encourage comments and/or responses.  If anyone has subjects not covered in the blogs, feel free to post in the comment section.  Will post more when more is known.

That all for now.

Saturday, April 21, 2012

April 2012 - Spring Has Arrived, (Yay!)

Greetings Bloggers et al,

April has arrrived, the birds are singing and nesting.  The bees are out foraging.  Green grass and different colored flowers have blossomed.  Looks official to us.  Enjoy the fine weather and liquid sunshine when applicable.

Annual General Meeting was held on April 4th, 2012 @ Silver Star Elementary School.  Turnout was lower than expected, however, the better known location was unavailable.  We shall endevour to have it held at BX Elementary School.  Regardless, we shall also try and get more advertising for the meeting as well.  Of course, it will be mentioned here on the Blog.  New Members, and/or anyone interested in being a director are welcome to attend meetings or contact the association through the email address.  bxslca@hotmail.com 
All intested inquiries and suggestions regarding Electoral Areas "B" and "C" and any other issues (or areas) are welcomed for discussion.

Water rates will be increasing by 17% this year and next year as well, to earmark funds for the "twinning" of the water distribution system.  Bona fide Agricultural users will only face an increase of 5% for both years.  Comments or inquires are welcome as well.  There is some discussion for Kal Lake as a potential water source, however this may not be initiated. 

The recent proposed "Intentions Paper" deadline has been extended past the May 31st, 2012 deadline.  The links below are some that are topical to this subject. 

http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/community/147800355.html
the below quote comes from the above link
“Due to the negative impact it has aroused,  MOE has agreed to rework the document with the input from the cattle industry and has extended the deadline past May 31.”

Proposed changes to the "Agricultural Wasted Control Regulations" (still has the original date listed.)
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/codes/awcr/index.htm

Comments or inquiries are always welcome.  If you would like to email it, please use the address above.

Thursday, March 22, 2012

March Additional Post

Some new information,

Topic of interest for anyone who is interested in their own food.  There is a letter of "intenstions" from the Province that would (if fully implemented) impact local food production.

The paper can be found at the link below:
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/codes/awcr/index.htm

The paper itself is in pdf format as well as the "Response Form" (for individuals) link is below.
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/codes/awcr/index.htm

also there is an "online response form" (link is below)
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/codes/awcr/response.htm

 unless you would like to compose your own letter and mail it to:

Cindy Bertam
P.O. Box 28159 Westshore RPO
Victoria, B.C. V9B 6K8

Unfortunately, there is a "deadline" in responses regarding these proposed changes and topic.  The deadline is March 31st, 2012.  (When it was posted as of March 13, 2012.)

Additionally, this was also written about in the March edition of "Country Life in B.C." Magazine.  Link for the specific article is below:
http://www.countrylifeinbc.com/newspages/news1.php

Thanks for your time, gracious bloggers.

As always, comments are welcome & appreciated.

Happy Easter to everyone.

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Spring...To Be Anounced.

Greetings all bloggers,

It is now March, Spring appears to have sprung (we shall wait and see.)  If anyone out there is getting an 'itchy green thumb', check out the local area vendors for agricultural products or produce as there is lots of choices.

Congratulations to all the local athletes that won medals at the "B.C. Winter Games."  Kudos to all the athletes who participated as well.  As I am reminded of Mr. Boris Becker who once said "I love the winning, I can take the losing, but most of all I love to play."  Of course, a heartfelt "Thank-You" to all the volunteers, without whose time and work, would not have made the event possible.

Re: The association's A.G.M. will be held on the evening 4th of April, at 7pm (until 9pm.)  The venue is (tentatively) scheduled to be "Silver Star Elementary School".  Don't forget the $5 membership/renewal fee for all individuals.  All are welcome.

Happy Easter to everyone and if anything arises we will blog it.  Comments on these or other local community subjects are welcome.

Friday, February 3, 2012

February Blogpost

Happy Valentine's Month,

Just an informal post to inform anyone who is intrested in attending the "B.X./Swanlake Community Association Annual General Meeting", it will be tentatively held in April, 2012.  More details (Date, Location and Time) to be announced when verified.  Membership fee is $5.00/person.  The directorship appreciates present and past membership support and looks forward to more attendance.  The Association specifically pertains to "Electoral Area B" and "C", however other concerns or issues of other areas are also considered and/or discussed.

Although it isn't Spring per se.  The weather seems to feel different.  All of us that have 'green thumbs' are starting to feel the Spring 'itch'.  Seeds could possibly be started indoors for this growing season.  Some local garden centers that are good sources of information and products are linked below:
http://www.artknapps.ca/ - Art Knapp Plantland and Florist
http://www.myswanlake.com/ - Swan Lake Fruit and Garden Center
http://www.briteland.com/ - Briteland
If anyone has a particular favorite (that isn't listed here), please let us know in the comments below.

Previous topics are welcomed to be commented on.  I.E.  Parks/Trails, Water issues.  Just no real new posts have addressed these, due to this last year being an election year.  Stay tuned for more information.

Saturday, January 14, 2012

First in the new year...

Greetings everyone,
     Happy New Year to all, this posting is a short one for this month.  Another may be added as information or issues arise at the next meeting.  It is scheduled for January 24th.  Any comments or inquiries are welcome.  May this year be prosperous for all.  Stay tuned...