Triathlon training camp
Anyone aged six to 12 years who would like to participate in this year’s Kids’ TRYathlon on July 16 can take part in a five-day training camp from June 30 to July 14. Each day-long session includes running, biking, and swimming skills, drills, and games; bike care and maintenance; and triathlon transitions. The cost is $50 for all five sessions, and each participant will receive a triathlon T-shirt. Register before June 22 at the HUB at 711 Hill Street; the office is open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., or call (250) 457-7038 or (250) 453-9177.
Science Al!ve
A Science Al!ve camp for children in grades 2 through 7 is being offered at the Ashcroft HUB from August 8–12. The camp aims to spark interest and dispel stereotypes in the fields of science, engineering, and technology by exposing youth to science through hands-on and interactive activities. Students will explore a variety of science subjects, including biology, chemistry, engineering, and more, with the curriculum designed for both junior and senior groups to work independently and together on activities and take-home projects. The cost is $50 per participant, with bursaries available for some students; e-mail sciencealive@sfu.ca for details. To register, or to obtain more information about the Science Al!ve camp, contact the HUB at (250) 453-9177.
Motion of censure from Board of Education
The Board of Education of School District No. 74 has passed a motion of censure against Trustee Jim MacArthur. The motion, which was passed at a special closed meeting on May 17, was decided on after “careful deliberation by the Board”, and was made because of a “breach of board policy and inappropriate behaviour toward an employee of the board”. Trustee MacArthur was provided with “a full opportunity to address the board on this issue”.
Rock slope stabilization complete
A project to stabilize the rock slope along the Trans-Canada Highway east of Lytton at Tank Hill Bluff has been completed, at a cost of $762,436. The project involved rock scaling, rock bolting, the use of shotcrete, and the installation of slope mesh. Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart says that “The completion of this necessary project means that a well-travelled section of Highway 1 is now safer for everyone who uses the highway, from the travelling public to commercial users.”
Illegal trails a no-no
Those who enjoy recreational activities in rural areas of the province are reminded that building unauthorized trails is illegal, and those caught doing it face stiff penalties. Unauthorized trails may result in soil erosion or compaction; have a negative impact on water quality or flow; impact other resource users; lead to the spread of invasive plants; disrupt wildlife habitats or sensitive plant ecosystems; and lead to safety and liability concerns due to improperly built or maintained trails. Individuals or groups wishing to construct or maintain a trail must prepare a written proposal and obtain provincial approval before starting work. For information about B.C.’s trail system, or to apply for permission to build a new trail, visit the Recreation Sites and Trails BC website at www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca.
Detergent pods a danger for children
Laundry detergent pods are spurring more and more calls to the BC Drug and Poison Information Centre, from 59 calls in 2012 to 152 calls in 2015. Most of these calls involve children under the age of six.
Exposure to laundry detergent pods requires more emergency room visits compared to exposure to regular liquid or powder detergent, possibly due to the higher concentration of detergents found in the pods.
The biggest risk is if a child bites into a laundry pod and it sprays out detergent, which can cause severe swelling at the back of the throat and interfere with the child’s breathing. While the pods are convenient for parents, young children can confuse them with toys or candy.
Parents are reminded to keep all detergents—no matter what their form—and other dangerous cleaning products stored safely out of the reach of children. If you suspect someone has been poisoned by a chemical, medication, or other substance call the BC Drug and Poison Information Centre at 1-800-567-8911.
