HERITAGE UPDATE:  More stories about the Graham residence, designed by Erickson.  Evidently Julie Christie and Warren Beatty stayed their during the making of McCabe and Mrs Miller.  Also, apparently it has fallen into disrepair. Now what?  Pls send your suggestions to heritage@westvan.org or call 922 4400; site visit planned this week.  See info/comments made during PQP at end of Nov 5 mtg (starts with *****), followed by more after the mtg stopped before a mbr of public wanted to speak.

=  MAIN ITEMS Ccl Mtg Nov 19: PH Gas Station 13th & Marine; DVP 866 20th; rest not out until Thurs, Nov 15; probably won't be a WVM newsletter but agenda will be sent to subscribers.  Revised Ccl Procedures???

=  Vive le Canada; INFObits (Loss of Murchie's; Property Values plummeting; Crime Stats/Regional Policing?; ADRA Survey results); UPDATES (Streamkeepers; Christmas Toy Drive); THEATREWATCH; BOOKWATCH (3); CALENDAR to Nov 28th (Streamkeepers' public mtg Nov 15 agenda; Chamber of Commerce, Library, etc)

=  Nov 5th Ccl Mtg NOTES: Increase in MLAs opposed; Cmnty Ctr Qtrly Update, Parking; Correspondence -- Hugo Ray Pk, Dund Traffic/Parking, Vinson Crk flooding, Atlas cedar tree removal; save the Erickson house!

=  More on Erickson's Graham house; Book Review (serious); Book Report (naughty); More Acronyms; Quotations

NOVEMBER 16  -- Deadline for Entries: Annual Poster and Literary Remembrance Contest - http://www.westvan60.com/poppy/poppycontest.html  More info at www.legionlegacies.ca and Julie Clements reports she has finished documenting all the WW II Honour Rolls and plaques, and posted five new pages under the Remembrance menu: WW II - 1946 Honour Roll; WW II - St. Francis-in-the-Wood Honour Roll; WW II - St. Stephen's Anglican Church Honour Roll; WW II - WV United Church Honour Roll; WW II - WV Memorial Library Book of Remembrance

>>>  In honour of Remembrance Day, these are just incredible stories -- yes, World War ONE!!!:

Surviving WWI: Veterans' stories -- Ahead of Remembrance Sunday, Britain's surviving World War I veterans talk about their memories of the conflict...  Harry Patch, who is 109 years old, was called up for service in 1917...  See more at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7084764.stm

>>>   Sad to see ad for Murchie's; in receivership in VSun, Nov10 pG2 -- loss of a heritage business/company?

The day after the Rodgers Crk WG mtg Nov 8 in wch BPP dropped the fact that property values in California had dropped 30%, here's a report from Chicago that arrived from BBC enews -- even more of a slide.  Looks like we're in for a ride.  See: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7078492.stm

Comparing West Van /// North Shore / Vancouver // BC Average of Independent Police / BC Avg RCMP

        Cost per capita:  $222 /// $169 / $291 // $257 / $159

        Popn per police officer:  590 /// 778 / 498 // 555 / 782

        Crime rate per 1000 residents:  60 /// 78 / 117 // 111 / 131

(North Shore = consolidated/average for CNV+DNV+DWV)

What does this mean? If Chief Heed gets his wish (regional police force), our costs are likely to go up and the number of police serving WV will drop.

For Immediate release [West Vancouver, BC] October 29, 2007

A survey conducted by a West Vancouver [ratepayers'] organization suggests strong opposition to more dense development of the Ambleside [Business District] in West Vancouver. Higher buildings and increased density have been proposed by [a Working Group] appointed by West Vancouver Council.

The survey by the Ambleside and Dundarave [Ratepayers'] Association (ADRA) was conducted by mail and e-mail over the past month.

"Our members showed remarkable uniformity in their [responses:]

* 88% said additional parking should be provided in any new development," said Fonseca.

She went on: "We asked the membership to identify what building heights they support for the Ambleside Business District:

The survey also asked ADRA members about residential neighbourhoods generally.

Fonseca said:

"Traffic and parking are seen as significant problems in our neighbourhoods," Fonseca said. "More than 60% of the respondents said parking and traffic are already problems on their neighbourhood streets."

Fonseca said ADRA's Board will guide their future actions and comments according to the opinions expressed by their members in the survey.

~ For further information: David Stephenson (dstephenson@telus.net; 926 5736), Director, ADRA

= [thanks to Hugh Hamilton, Nov 10]

http://www.canada.com/northshorenews/news/story.html?id=5ce91ca7-f6d7-4237-babd-330e29690d6a&p=1

WEST VANCOUVER  Emergency Services Toy Drive  --  November 5th - December 15

This is the second year WV Firefighters and Police will work together on the Toy and Gift Drive.  Last year WV residents put aside a month of damaging windstorms, power outages, and mudslides to generously donate over 500 gifts.  WVFD Fire Chief Jeff Oates and WVPD Chief Constable Kash Heed were first to donate to the 2007 Drive.  "We look forward to building on the success of last year's drive," says Chief Constable Heed, "WV Firefighters and Police Officers believe sincerely in helping people. We're fortunate to work in a community where so many residents feel the same."

WV Police: WVPD Headquarters - 1330 Marine

WV Fire and Rescue Services: Fire Hall # 1, 760 - 16th St;  Fire Hall # 2, 6272 Marine; Fire Hall #3, 4895 Marine; Fire Hall #4, 965 Cross Creek Road

>>>  Saw The American Pilot by David Greig (Scottish playwright), at the Jericho Arts Ctr; premiere in Canada for this play.  Thoughtful (interplay of Afghan and American cultures) but it ended Nov 3.  In any case am positive we'll see more of Maija Tailfeathers, one of only two half Blackfoot and half Saami (Norwegian Laplander) people in the world (played a daughter brought up traditionally but on the doorstep of the modern world -- she even has seen a bit of television at a friend's house).  Interesting hearing the Translator's view of the US after a few weeks in New York and San Diego.

>>>  Also saw His Greatness (Arts Club, Granville Island) b/c we admire Alan Gray's work and he was superb.  Takes place in 1980 when Tennessee Williams was here in Vancouver.  David Marr was also excellent.  Sorry, it ended Nov 10.   I'm referring to it as His Graytness......

>>>  Just had to see the inimitable Jay Brazeau in Albee's The Goat... who is Sylvia?  -- another great performance.  Susan Ristic, his wife (played Stevie, the wife), was also excellent.  What marriage hasn't had a crisis at some point (though maybe not so bizarre; presume it's a metaphor for whatever problem).  Albee is homosexual (as is son in play) so maybe PR msg -- how great being gay is in comparison with bestiality (love is hardly a choice).  Naturally I was tickled that sprinkled throughout were comments about language -- correcting and complimenting someone's usage.  Set was sophisticated.  Again, apologies since it ended Nov 10 too.

>>>  This time therefore, a headsup: Tideline is on now and I'll be seeing that (playwright in Montreal, won prize, about Canada and Lebanon, and as you know, I love Beirut; no illusions this is great theatre but has a tug for me); and Richard III with a powerful combination: Scott Bellis directing Bob Frazer!!!

= ONE:  ~ 1:30 - 3pm ~ Saturday Nov 17th at the Museum: "West Vancouver: A View Through the Trees" by Elspeth Bradbury.  Elspeth will talk about her long-awaited book on the history of the forests of West Vancouver.  Books are $45; proceeds go to the Lighthouse Park Preservation Society.  Enquiries to environment@westvancouver.ca -- it's an elegant book with beautiful photographs.  (See Calendar below).

What could a senator, a Muppet, an advice columnist, and a baseball player all have in common? What is one word that describes Bob Dole, Elmo, Miss Manners, and Ozzie Smith?

They all are illeists.

An illeist is one who refers to himself in the third person (for example: "Miss Manners does not condone ...")...

= THREE: 'How to Talk About Books You Haven't Read' by PIERRE BAYARD; reviewed by Jay McInerney in the NYTimes book review: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/11/books/review/McInerney-t.html?_r=1&8bu&emc=bu&oref=slogin

"A French literature professor on how to solve a classic problem: so many books, so little time."

==  Tuesday Nov 13th -- Cmnty Grants/Soc Services WG ~ 7pm

~ 6:30pm (doors open at 6pm): End Homelessness Now Public Forum: Getting The "Chronically Homeless" Off The Streets; St. Andrews-Wesley United Church (Burrard and Nelson); Info: www.endhomlessnessnow.ca or 683 4574.  A free public forum dedicated to finding solutions to ending chronic homelessness.

~ 7pm ~ NSh Family Court & Youth Justice Cmte at CNV M Hall

~ 7:30pm ~ WV Streamkeepers: Public Mtg (St Stephen's, 885 - 22nd):  AGENDA

==  Friday Nov 16th -- Arts & Culture Strategy ~ 8:45am

Please join Elspeth Bradbury, the author of recently published book, West Vancouver: A View Through the Trees, who will describe the relationship between plants and people through 10,000 years of co-evolution.  West Vancouver has been blessed with magnificent natural surroundings. Above all, it is the forest that has shaped the community's history that colours its present and challenges its future.

~ 2 - 4pm ~ BOOK EXCHANGE for BOOK CLUBS IN SUPPORT of the STEPHEN LEWIS FOUNDATION

WV Memorial Library Book Club members are invited to swap their gently used book club books, meet and mingle, and enjoy some refreshments. Donate $20 to the Grandmothers Campaign in Africa; at WV United Church.

~ 3pm ~ Winter Harp, concert at St. Francis-in-the-Wood Anglican Church; info www.stfrancisinthewood.ca or call 922 3531 ($15); info on their rare instruments and photos: www.winterharp.com

SFU Harbourside Courses:

Nov 16 -17 ~~ Urban Design: Public Realm; Details: http://www.sfu.ca/city/course7popup.htm

Nov 20 ~~ 6:45pm ~ The Principles and Politics of Urban Sustainability - What Vancouver can learn on implementing smarter growth? SFU Harbour Centre; Seating is limited. RSVP by email: rsvp@planningcommission.ca Info: 604-873-7477

Nov 23 - 24 ~~ New Approaches to Transportation in an Era of Energy and Climate Challenges; Details: http://www.sfu.ca/city/course8popup.htm [CANCELLED]

==  Thursday Nov 22nd -- possible mtg wrt recreation in the Rodgers Creek Area

==  Wednesday Nov 21st at 7pm: Library Board (at Library) and Board of Variance

        ~ 4:30pm ~ Heritage Strategic Plan Implementation WG

+++  WV MEMORIAL LIBRARY +++ see www.westvanlib.ca for more!

Thursday 15 ~~ DOC.TALKS: Supersize Me:  6:30pm

This fall's Thursday night documentary and discussion series focuses on the business of food and drink, from the effects of globalization to a look at the marketing of excesses. We even supply free popcorn.  Morgan Spurlock embarks on a journey to find out if fast food is making Americans fat.  Spurlock's gruelling diet spirals him in to a metamorphosis that will make you think twice about picking up another Big Mac. Free event, no registration required.

Friday 23 ~~ Friday Night Concert Series Presents: Musica Intima; Free concert but seating is limited so come early and enjoy refreshments by Friends of the Library. Doors open at 7pm, concert starts at 7:30pm.

+++  WV MUSEUM +++   BEHIND THE WIRE -- Nov 7 to Feb 9 

This is the Chamber members' opportunity to come and see our new offices, at 1846 Marine Drive, and join in this special Member Showcase as our launch event.  We are now located in the West Van Partners Centre, an office looking to the future by supporting and enhancing the connection between businesses and the community.

The new offices are home to the West Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, the West Vancouver Community Foundation, the Coho Society of the North Shore, and North Shore Spirit of B.C. Committee.

District staff for Cultural Services, Partnership Development, Special Projects/Events and 2010 Initiatives will be working alongside community agencies.  It's a fresh approach to what we all believe -- that we are here to serve the community better.

Members having tables at this event: British Pacific Properties, Capilano College, Cypress Mountain, Heritage Law, Park Royal Shopping Centre, The Outlook.

We expect a large turnout as this is our premiere event in this location, so please call the office if you would like to reserve a table.  There will be fabulous door prizes, delicious appetizers and refreshments served.  In order to know the number for catering, please RSVP to:  www.westvanchamber.com or call 926 6614.

at KMC:  Music for Mental Health -- Thursday, November 22, beginning at 7pm

1.  APPROVAL OF AGENDA -- Add'l letters

2.  ADOPTION OF MINUTES: Oct 15 and 22

{Remarks and video: The Legion's Legacies; see www.legionlegacies.org}

thx; join us Nov 11th; stand for act of remembrance

Mayor, Proclamation of Veterans' Week, then: Thank you for the model of sacrifice, charity, and desire to serve that you offer West Vancouver every day; quite remarkable what you do for the cmnty... appreciate that.

SI: Dave Isaac's here from Acumen Consulting (as moral support)

I made an application for a B&B licence but it was rejected b/c only existing B&Bs are allowed to operate

hope will be rescinded; 2010 Olympics fast approaching, need especially in Sea-to-Sky corridor

I'm proposing wrt First Nations culture

most B&Bs traditional English-style and in my instance I wd like to promote the Coast Salish culture; brought the matter before the Chief and Ccl of the Squamish Nation and he told me on the phone this afternoon that he was in full agreement of promoting the culture and wd endorse it.  Wd be willing to pass a band resolution wrt that support.

don't see anything in the bylaws that prohibit a B&B so must be within your policy -- think there was a grandfather clause and they wd not look at any future B&Bs

cdn't find anything that wd prohibit one; posing that question, don't know

SJN: B&Bs are defined in the Zoning Bylaws and unless listed, category not allowed in area

in consideration of zoning changes; Ccl received one of those, in Dund in past and decided not to allow; can apply, quite stringent

Mayor: kicks off the zoning process

SJN: allowed to exist as long as no more than two bedrooms; some prior may have more from time to time

JF: in initial discussions, this Ccl had discussions wrt B&Bs re 2010, going to be a need during the Olympic period and the run up.  I thought the cmte was going to look into that, granting that.

Motto is welcome, be our guests, and can't very well have that if we have nowhere for them to stay.  Think there's a motel in HBay

Has Olympic Cmte looked into that?

CAO: looked at in broad spectrum; issue if we cd not apply our bylaws during the Olympic period

VANOC just now getting into that, and renting homes; shd see report in next six months

JF: cd Ms Isaac register some place then when resolved, contacted?

CAO: we can follow up on that

SI: the 2010 Cmte, the four tribes in the Sea-to-Sky Corridor will be hosting; by promoting the culture through art, food, lodging, wd have a lasting impact in a post Olympic period.

JC: at the All-Candidate mtg at KMC, we were asked about B&Bs in run-up and to my recollection ev at this table said they wd support that

we have absolutely no accommodation in the M, unless stay with Cclr Ferguson

get at this sooner rather than later

Sop: made application?

SI: yes, and turned down

Cypress Mountain -- that alone will have an impact on commercial accommodation, esp in WV

RD: we have your name and not your address...  [for] Clerk's Dept

RD: pretty good idea; remember site in Dundarave and struck me as a good site but nbrs turned out and really opposed, don't know how many

SI: only one

Mayor: no discussion

RD: nevertheless glad you answered it; so think we shd revisit it; don't have a hotel in WV, Olympics coming; can set up where can be without disruption

Sop: wondering about staff report -- zoning? public mtg?

JC: forcing ppl to rezone, expensive; Ccl cd just rescind

CAO: cd present some option; cd for temp or permanent basis

VV: my question -- for a few months or just during the Olympics; arriving, stay on a bit later

a lot of ppl who set up will say not worth capital for just a few months

staff just some simple points; see where ppl stand; don't want to go over and over again; maybe just during Olympics

Mayor: done during Expo, not sure your question

JC: Mr Stuart said he cd provide some options

SSch: comprehensive report re B&B options within 90 days

JCl: I'm John Clark, here with Mary Fawley, Carl van Winkel and Chester [other names]

my honour $8,671 to assist in installation; delighted; complements a $15K donation and the M is contributing to Spacenet, completed; tyvm

Mayor: Old Eagle Harbour [Cmnty Ctr]... think... X cdn't be here tonight

Sop: I want to congratulate on one of these cmtes

been on one of these with son Sam last few years when he was four to seven

builds healthy bodies, good

Mayor: can you let us when the [installation?] will take place

Ans: hope in time for Christmas

RD: don't know why anyone wd oppose this; popn has grown but will retain number in north even though popn has decreased; given increase shd hv more, not of belief sponging off

MS: take contrary view and vigorously support

one, decreases our representation -- we have four on north shore and adding eight with none for us

two, everyone's learning to do more with less than us -- we've got hundreds of senators, MPs, MLAs, etc; know all the power in the cabinet.  Need more like a hole in the head; see written to other Ms; .....

others look after ...  don't know what senior govts do except salaries and pensions

health...[prov] tax ppl that earn it and give to ppl that don't

VV: time to repeat some well-know statistics from ev dollar, 50 cents to feds, prov 42 cents, and M govt 8 cents; so don't know why increase bureaucracy of prov

tax freedom day is already in June; have an agreement with Cclr Smith that those who earn money shd decide how to spend it

outside of health and education, prov handling

Don't see how we're making progress by adding to the size of the bureaucracy; think we shd go ahead with this resoln to inform the prov govt of our opinion

JF: surprisingly see myself in agreement with Cclrs Vaughan and Smith

if they wish to rejig borders, but simply b/c increase in popn in prov no

can't see why 79 can't serve

RD: agree with my colleagues that fed/prov govts take too much and Ms don't get enough

we're left with too little and provide services ...

these aren't bureaucrats, they're representatives of the ppl;

prov educ, univs, transportation

Ms provide most services, prov some much needed , and fed most money and least of all

this wd be in line with popn growth

Sop: rather odd that I'm last this time

thought prov govt wd downsize but not been the case

interesting we were overcharged by TransLink and we had to be refunded

surplus federally, only consequence for family $1200 on childcare rebate of $225 and large surplus of millions.

put us in jeopardy, tax day over half a year; then say have to give some back; system is haywire, don't need to increase size of Victoria, we shd be downsizing

RD: point of order: TransLink is regional, an extension of the municipalities, not a provincial agency

Mayor: I'm going to actually speak against the motion, not b/c of wishing to support larger govt

but I think as local govt you pick your battles with the prov and we've done that

we've worked v hard on the taxation formula wrt the new TransLink legislation b/c we don't believe it helps WV to link that to prop taxes; we've worked v hard to keep the homeowners' grant issue in front of the prov govt b/c it disenfranchises so many ppl in WV from that important piece of legislation; we've got a history of fighting Eagleridge Bluffs and BC Ferries where we think it affects us.  And I think that's the reputation we want to have.  I don't think we back away from a fight, but I think this one is not particularly our battle.  I don't pretend to understand representation in the north, but the Premier is supporting that, overruling the Electoral Commission as is the Attorney-General.  I'm going to vote against the motion b/c I think we want to stay focused on the things we're truly trying to impact in Victoria for WV

and I'll call the question

RECOMMENDED:... report ... from the Deputy Director, Parks and Community Services be received for information.

June Sutherland: mbr of WV Pottery Studio Adv Cmte; [this time] my question why the Ccl cdn't find 1700sf in a 85Ksf bldg

Mr Pike said two options and did not elaborate what they were

Mayor gave .... notice when on agenda

Mayor: excuse me, have him answer rather than sit there

SJN: quarterly report been known for some time; asked to report on sizes of rooms and it is present in this report

JS: yes, it is, been asking that for many many months;  [sent] email to Val Kettler; had no acknowledgement;  now 56K on five floors replacing in old 28K [what's happened to studio]

KP: the options were and are: possible facilities outside the Cmnty Ctr and continuing to review that; asking for a sketch plan a 3D arts studio in Srs' Ctr; looking at those two and can bring those back looking at the costs

JS: do you discuss this?

Mayor: purpose of this report

JS: you've been storing the pottery stuff for two years and must be costing a fortune

Betty Ditters: making a reappearance b/c I'm angry; retired art teacher and former pottery teacher

concerns me did not transfer to Gleneagles

world speaks in 465 languages and only sees in one ... 90% [eyes?] ... pottery studio perfect

suffered b/c not travelled to the Gleneagles pottery

abdicated resp to protect...  central ... current mammoth

Connie Little: here again, speaking for the seniors about the lack of protection of seniors' services such as pottery and weaving

Nov 2 article in NSN, WV greyer than most; looking at tremendous increase

these are the folks who have paid taxes for years and years

for 30 years seniors been able to access pottery in cmnty ctr, but not ........

understood built with prov .....  and open it up to all citizens

Ccl's decisions not to answer this legacy concerns me; haven't explored legality of this action as yet

what is Ccl entertaining to .... in this new ...     srs' ctr; seniors' needs must be considered; we'll all become seniors eventually, if we're lucky

Joan Beninger: also mbr of Pottery Studio Adv Cmte; also been asked to speak to Mr Pike's options

given we didn't know what they were

possibly delivering... in add'n to the Srs' Ctr ...

July 2007, email sent to me at direction of Ccl

he spoke of the connection at heart of this project

not sufficient money to do so; tendered $1.4M understood $1.2M

wd cost over $1.7M; building envelope prob at Srs' Ctr wch ...  presume 2008

looking at $2.7M and a repair project

our concern, what was in old cmnty ctr, weavers and parking probs

in this letter, Mr Pike indicated wdn't be a definitive decision made re pottery, connection, fabric, ofc employees, covered walkway

more modest but not who it pertains to

for progs that have existed for well over 30 years

Option One seems to have been negated in July

if you don't have a budget presently to include progs that existed in old cmnty ctr, don't know where $$ going to come from

in June we specifically asked what a pottery studio wd cost outside the ctr; you have all the equipment, all we need is space

in terms of functionality of cmnty ctr, you've replaced a 28Ksf structure, 115Ksf and functionality not M progs, space for prov services and priv industry

you do have this space, based on p6, you have not finalized the space for alternative medicine, 1600sf that wd be perfect for pottery; better than option to addition to Srs' Ctr

even building a connection wch was supposed to be part of it -- we're not optimistic it's going to happen

viable, provided we know what you're talking about; no info

been making efforts to deal with bureaucrats, we're going to media now

Appendix B shd hv been av from the beginning

Mr Pike took offence to .....but exactly what it is in this doc, but M services 56K, that's double before

use that space, or come up with a viable solution

of viable budget we can work with

Mayor: Mr Pike wd you care to respond before Ms Chuback

KP: viable solutions still require funding; we don't know if many dollars remaining from contingency and Ccl will have to decide use them or turn them back

still building and there are no dollars for this or...

Sop: at outset when space, progs being developed, was the pottery services given space at that time?

KP: in initial planning, absolutely; after when ....

Sop: so there was something?

JB:... our cmte struck in 2004 specifically to design

reports to Ccl; helped in terms of design and what needed to be contained

sure that all info needed was available; surprise to us when we were deferred; concern permanent

Josie Chuback, Parks Dept: Slides: Cmnty Ctr Highlights

project, budget, status reports; devt costs, trade contracts, project schedule

prime goal to keep project on budget and keep our costs under control

quality assurance; adhere to schedule

first slide: remain within budget, will let Basil speak to that

Basil Davis, Project Mgr: report still has all the figures

started with budget of $38.8M; then pullback factor, had to pull back $5M

Jan 07, had to get back to $38.81M that's what we're working toward; [slide] showing progress, fourth column furnishings, estimates, add to Aug 31st column get to final column; what that's showing you, the project shows $38.12M and Ccl $38.8M so hope with good luck and problem won't arise, hope to be within....

decisions wrt Srs' Ctr; won't know till then; still the risky period; look at actual contingency, last column shows unspent $.7M; feeling reasonably comfortable with where we're going

... had 60%  to the credit of construction mgrs, Scott [Mgmt/Construction]; last contract in place, 98% of trade contracts, diff from est at 60% drawings is less than half a per cent

they must hv had pretty good handle on where [economy/industry] was going

anything wrt increased scope or design change, goes to ... change and to contingencies

managed to stay within......

feel comfortable we'll be able to stay within $38.8M and actually have some change left over

next slide, Are Developers Near Capacity [graph], given to us on Friday, done by CMHC

one of the Scott mgrs went to this conference and he showed us these figures

enormous volume, house to highrise {incredible}

the next slide deals with popn growth; expecting by 2012, popn 75 and over so pressure more on multi-unit or highrise buildings, focus of where construction will go

saw it climbing, will be exacerbated in coming years; bring this up not b/c of building but pull on labour

trade can give you a price then another if they can get sufficient staff to do it

whether convention ctr or Olympics, all struggling to meet schedules -- you can read about it

wrt Project Update, labour the biggest headache but also struggling with construction costs; slippage about three months

16 - 19 mos; not from demolition but from start of construction; slide shows end in June

CMHC slide shows all the highrise construction, ev suffering about 18% behind on their schedules across the prov

the actual figure of our delay is on the same order; really does get back to labour; hope we can stay within my projection end of June, reflecting what's happening around prov

JCh: wrt pedestrian access between facilities, configured like a campus, middle; have to come from outside

new ped access to Aq Ctr from outside, a long ramp; small and gets congested, but weren't many others that wd fit in with fire needs

thank Cclr Day for suggestion re using fire access; can facilitate access with groups when we know; have to have additional staff

also in process of getting our handheld scanners so can when they come in groups

see some of those strategies in busy times; welcome all and any suggestions

keep running as much as possible, some days have to shut down for various reasons

parking: challenges around closure of front, need for that for construction steel and granit rocks for the fountain; extra lot on 22nd has 50 stalls and have full underground

worked closely with Srs, proving a shuttle bus; pleased to announce Blue Bus runs from PkR to Ctr, and up to ...

just been asked be part of demonstration of a .... bus, with silver; pleased about that

green initiatives

encourage ppl to walk as much as possible, bicycle, new racks; pref parking for shared vehicles

a number of other initiatives; LEED accreditation, high silver;; geothermal field; air quality

last point in LEED accreditation -- setting up a green house ... cleaning plan

educational signage around green sites, public app benefits of project

Partners' Leases: cafe and VGH completed; still working with Youth Band and Wellness & complementary medicine services

looking for other partners we can work with; look at options western, .....

got a design that needs to be more detailed so it can be costed; to be connected to Srs' Ctr, still in process of working that out

Mayor: questions?

MS: why the costs are as of the end of Aug rather than end of Sept

BD: to get Sept's figs in place, Sept's was done in Oct so by the time all the figs, cdn't do that at same time and do for this; same prob came up re Qtrly Report; purely acctg

RD: understand our project the only main on in Lower Mainland

BD: $61M up at Sq, university on budget; set about April of 05; a lot of this is a bit of luck, a lot of credit to Scott, the estimators; no brilliance about Basil or anybody else

what's so crazy fixed sum

mgrs not putting goldleaf, you're going to--

Mayor: maybe a bad example

BD: esp in .....; Italian tiles in bathroom, can use the ones in Sask

only by that eventually able to wrestle back to $38.8M by cutting back ..... cut back foot prints....

done six projects with these guys and they're coming through

RD: only have to look at conv ctr downtown and see how good you are

BD: was approached by conv ctr and said time out

RD: sympathize with pottery ppl, needs to be said being a bit neglected

money; Ccl does take pottery seriously....

know Gleneagles too far, srs live here but ...

JCh: a number transferred out to Gleneagles, and a ...

smaller, diff configuration limited space for storing

is able to provide an opp for chn's, and ppl staying ...

RD: we are looking for a way near the ctr; we're trying to do that; not that we don't value pottery; somehow got cut b/c nec; do best to find

I made sure   ...  quality and flexibility not sacrificed

designed for 1200 students and at present only have 71

library and canteen; had to cut back on the 1200 concept; didn't cut back on the $61M

JF: want to thank Basil, and Josie; know ppl disappointed not 3D, I was.

next year who can rembr how diff to walk in rain, maybe have pottery; matter of working together, continue to communicate with each other; great ab to work together productively

communicate better with pottery group, have to do that

too bad tree has to come back -- in public art, public

thrilled we are on budget; complete in best of all possible times

Sop: in our go-around with you there was some glazing to be done; June's pushing it, Sept more likely

BD: still working on June

Sop: all that roofing  ... , still a contingency of $.69M

BD: I've tried to put in, furniture and equipment needs have come along, have tried to drop contingency and that was the .69

Sop: on allotment of space, that wch is leased and that set; any feasibility of space being found that cd be let out to pottery and others?

JCh: if any of the current rec spaces were going to be used for pottery it wd be a loss of function of the space there; have to be structurally fitted

haven't looked at  ...  if we were to look at the ...

load or activity on that floor

cdn't be in a leased space b/c pay from that required

Sop: find space for pottery in future in that ctr?

KP: as Josie outlined, we'd have to displace something

if no one was wanting to use it for, we'd have to say what can we convert this to

as you know we planned 3D studio on second floor

costly, but possible

Sop: finally, in this picture, shows magnificent atlas cedar tree, wch has been stated to be kept

know session with staff that said through one thing or another, and I wd assume some was root cutting, told now it has to be out of there;

reminds me of an apt block that took their tree down, now is the bylaw ofcr going to pinch this one [punish?], the M, for not following the bylaws on this tree?

KP: not an issue of bylaw; we've fought hard for this tree all along; an Atlas cedar, not a native species, been there for 50 years and it's magnificent; b/c of proximity to building and height it is,

it has clearly compromised the way we can use outdoor spaces beyond the multipurpose room, and how the fountain will work on that site; we also know we have cut roots well within what was recommended,

and going to further measures, we don't really know how long that tree will survive, cd be five years or 25 years, but it compromises the outside usage and that was a v tough decision for us

We were faced with it in summer time, and decided not to do it, and the issue just became too overwhelming this fall.

Sop: sad to see it go, that's for sure; am sure others are

KP: so are we

MS: wd think we need a staff report attached to the next Qtrly report for the bills that are going to have to be paid

our Endowment Fund $29M and $7M a windfall from exprop from Eagleridge; Ccl opposed that wd be used for hwy

well over $30M of bills to be paid as of Dec 31st 2006

wd like to see a report from Mr Laing and what the plan is to meet our obligations as they fall due

CAO: planning to bring forward a report by end of month

Sop: ...

CAO: exprop; prov what it's worth, then up to us to appeal; if signif diff will be approaching prov about that

RECEIPT PASSED

Mayor: want to congratulate you; pleased not sitting here making excuses

obviously the experience throughout prov

had to cut srs......   look to see how we can accommodate pottery in future; diff decisions...

I remember we ..... cdn't get a fixed price; daily basis, has served cmnty v well

Sop: report?

Mayor: Nov 19

CAO: Nov 26

RECOMMENDED: ...report from the Deputy Director of Parks and Community Services be received.

JCh: [slides] Bunt & Assns analysis 2001; 2005 NDLea a supplemental study, along with Gordon Ave

... 307 cars, future 363; so went fwd

when Aq Ctr opened the participation increased significantly, much more than anticipated; so reviewed by NDLea; Aq Ctr more, VCHA more and already using the location

sq ftg increase 12K from 2001

parking changes; possible reduction, lawn used temporarily during construction; planned north plaza wd not continue to be used for parking but used for turnaround, dropoff

we have 488 planned on site: on surface keeping SAC, east side of Cmnty Ctr, north plaza, 128 underground + add'l 100 underground and 74 stall on street

We're 80 spaces short if 568 and remember it's peak time

the VCHA use already factored in; they've already modified what they asked from adjusted numbers down; aids not parking there for v long; churches in the area have more activities during the week rather than just on Sundays now

health and fitness studios, progs at PJ, etc, all using that parking area

senior shuttle, Blue Bus, now hydrogen ... going on

Recommended Future Actions: working with seniors managing sites; keep as many on site; time limits adjustments to be made; if can't be met will look at other options

MS: wrt 488 parking spaces on site, report says 314, the others offsite; are all those spaces around the ctr going to have signs for cmnty ctr users only?

JCh: presently being used

MS: Bank of Mtl came before Ccl and were two spaces short

so we're saying a devpr has to provide a certain number but when we do we can count spaces around

other question

28Ksf to 48Ksf; the consultant did a study when ctr closed 10am and 2pm 358 and 444 and that was with the old ctr not even operating

you want to have ctr as a drop-in for coffee -- how are ppl going to use it if they can't park?

not good enough to look at parking options explored after built -- all my uni profs were wrong? when you look at demand you look at supply

think we shd return the front great lawn to parking now, b/c I don't buy into needed to get construction equipment on site -- has to become by road so as before

urge parking on front; until we can determine has enough parking

two churches there, Aq Ctr,....... know Srs' Ctr use increasing all the time

time to address prob before big prob, best before opening

CAO: we reviewed the whole parking ...

v little green space; by design elected to keep that; didn't want add'l underground spots at $35K a stall; these are projections that we don't manage; there are opps to manage demand

let's use those options, manage demand, then look at other options

take away green space, design contemplated keeping that green space

VV: this great lawn, how many spots max cd we put there?

JCh: don't have figs depends on how close to bldgs, fountain, dropoffs; had about 80 during construction, just on gravel

as MMgr reminded us, underground $35K per stall, we shd hv estimated $5M more for parking on this site

consideration of parking meters for on-site parking?

don't think we have a satisfactory answer; there are cost implications; do want to see some solutions

Sop: being on the Facilities Group, we looked for spaces to find parking; always there include perimeter where ppl wd park

quadrant at middle of back; underground -- wonder if it's completely full

understand wrt Health component going to be out a lot; they'd have an allotment for sure

disagree taking a beautiful lawn area and cover it up with asphalt

takes away from premise; ev has to be about parking; gone through this for six or seven years

maybe once open we might have to make some adjustments; one of them speedway between 21st and 22nd, and put in angle parking; still leave great lawn; lots of alternatives there, not a major issue

has to do with demand and how successful

JF: personally support staff's recommendations; getting ppl out of their cars

trying to change the mindset of ppl in this cmnty, to exercise, participate in arts, crafts, have a cup of coffee and visit wellness ctr; later will have better idea

prov govt gave us a whole bunch of money for the civic spirit square; envisioned

no interest in paving paradise to ut up a parking lot

if not able to control, either by scheduling at diff times wch wd hv been peak; alts to transportation to and from site; better things to do

RD: I agree with Cclrs Sop and Ferguson; invested a lot of money in good architecture; beautiful bldgs, always planned green space and fountain

eight months before civic ctr opens; so think we shd wait as colleagues said

civic ctr plaza to north question -- close to Aq ctr was to be open but cars quickly used them

perhaps civic plaza too ambitious -- does that include...

JCh: does not include the 24 stalls on the north plaza

RD: that shd be continued as parking whereas grass left green; think you cd get 30 stalls in there

if short 80 one hour a week, cd reduce that to 50; better leaving south green

eight months to go; used for parking leave it that way

previous item, when we cut the budget to accommodate from Srs' Ctr, we didn't cut the cover and seniors will be able to go under cover to Aq Ctr -- talked to seniors and they think no roof but there will be a roof, but not as elaborate

VV: I don't agree with my esteemed colleague, plant lawn then have to dig it up, waste

JC: agree with Cclr Smith, we're looking at a tremendous traffic problem

wrt dig up the lawn and pave it, I understand there's a thermal so can't be paved, has to be gravel and don't know if we want to see that

relying on old information, as Cclr Smith said a lot of the info gathered when no traffic around the area whatsoever

concerned fiasco

Sop: knew from the outset perimeter, some underground, knew another section underground

knew looking at 420 spots

increased, with usage; success at Aq Ctr and may have with Civic Ctr

do we ... or wait and see how it goes

back as Cclr Day says, cd provide 30 spots easily

don't buy it; filling up underneath, may need...  without filling up front lawn with cars

CAO: we will continue to look at this and provide options, not just the front lawn; there are a number of options we can take; a little like TransLink -- build more roads or .....

RD: we've still got eight months; I'm in favour of planting the grass and keeping it; hope we do; I want the grass

have a civic plaza, plus angle along Marine Dr cd get to 80; better than paving gravelling over

got eight months let's watch it; get better idea, and make more informed decisions

Mayor: senior shuttle we had to put in place, been a big success

... Blue Bus... b/c of the magnet; application for Spirit Trail, connection to Spirit Sq

resp to cmnty .... those goals

related to Gordon Ave, walking down 21st and 22nd preferred way to go; drop off

wonder how Library functions wch has the worst [parking and highest circulation]

slaves to pavement; provincial funding around cycling and we have ...

9.         Consent Agenda Items - Reports and Correspondence List

Item 10 - Development Variance Permit Application No. 07-037 (866 20th Street) (to set date for consideration); and Item 11 - Correspondence List.

Removal: MS 3 27 31; VV 6 10; RD 16 27 31 34; Sop: pretty well same

REPORTS FOR CONSENT AGENDA

10.       Development Variance Permit Application No. 07-037 (866 20th Street)

        RECOMMENDED: ... for consideration on Monday, November 19, 2007.

11.       Correspondence List  [complete list in prev issue]

Mayor: I have received various complaints about this and followed up in various ways

followup report; hwy; wd like to understand what we're to expect

Sop: at one time over Stanley Park and xxx someone gave permission

CAO: may have to do with False Crk, will follow up with Transport Canada

...

(6)       R. Barr, Hugo Ray Park Area Residents Group, October 19, 2007, regarding Meeting with Mayor Goldsmith-Jones and Hugo Ray Park Residents

Referred to the Director of Parks & Community Services for consideration and response.

Sop (after 10): on p 141; they have roughly 30 questions

given the length of time, even the questions Ccl don't fully understand; havesome sort of public mtg with Ccl

yes we need info from prov, and

but this relates to a lot more, to the taxpayers and nbrs we're impinging on

proud investing in chn and sports

until we sit down and face each other not going to come to an end

sit down in Jan? have a good go around; good soln we haven't talked for months

KP: waiting and waiting, dragged on, without money don't know if 2008 or ? will depend on when funding confirmed; we're in that limbo; depends on fundraising and they're not finished fundraising

wrt Cricket, mtg with them next week and we hear from Cricket saying they support

hearing from Min of Transport wrt exiting, so a variety of unknowns

Sop: hear what you said; one side is given the right to go ahead and fundraise and in their enthusiasm many decisions made, what's going to be there, expanded, something else, whereas all the residents (?), beg and beg and don't get anything

Mayor: do have a letter...

Mr PIke has spent hours; not putting any barriers

fact of the matter is we don't know scale until we know about prov funding; doing ev we can

Sop: xxx

Mayor: efforts to meet; knew what one another looking for

CAO: Mr Pike has answered queries to get more back and to suggest ...

VV: combine; continue to receive email; hundreds

email from Treasurer of Cricket; the Cricket Assn is not a supporter of current proposal or request for grant

been referring ppl to answer end of Oct and ... now end of Nov? need an answer

KP: we've been waiting for confirmation from HRPSociety re funding, informed Friday last after discussing with Victoria, at least Dec before any answer wrt grant -- and it was Aug 15 -- so quite a delay

letter drafted; have also provided the Hugo Ray Pk Society, informed them

...

(16)     B.A. Dozzi, Manager - Roads & Transportation, October 11, 2007, regarding General Letter to Residents/Business Owners re Dundarave Parking and Traffic Plan - Implementation

RD: know we talked about this last week and postponed; know .... Mr Dozzi's report

mtg July 2006 report didn't seem to come to Ccl

several letters from Biz Assn and letter from D Hawkins

think this is a mistake; no evidence of accidents from backing out from 24th an Bellevue

a lot of medical clinics, a lot of seniors living there; think it is a mistake, warning; shd postpone this

if evidence think we shd do something

Mayor: in disc with Mr Dozzi

BDozzi: have decided to hold off for now; though literature 'back in' is safer than 'nose in'

hold off and collect some local data; in New Westminster they use back in method

will see if we can collect local data so holding off on implementation

MS: couple of items off what I was going to

Dund parking had teething problems, seem to be working well

maybe reverse ... maybe used to doing it; I've been trying to find [place in WV], can't find where to do it; ppl are used [to 'nose in']

to make Dund Lane two ways is suicidal; letter from Prez of Dund BAssn, leave well enough alone

Mayor: so that's 27 and 31

 ...

[after (34) at 9:38]

MS: will keep it short in view of the extremely late hour

wonder if we cd ask for a staff report whether efficacious for us to have our staff install the lights for DBA as requested.  They're fundraising to buy the lights.  Letter here says they wd like our staff with our equipment to install the lights.  They point out that losing Capers is a bit of a body blow to the village and they want to have it looking smart for Christmas, so if there's any way that we can accommodate their request, I wd like to think we wd do so

Mayor: who'd like to reply to that?

CAO: request is to look at it so will get back to Ccl.

Mayor: thank you

...

need motion to  receive items

MS: haven't discussed 18 yet.

Mayor: oh, did we miss that? sorry -- 18

> MS: plsd attended on your behalf, Soroptimists fundraising dinner dance event

> Sop: with Mayor G-J, attended in Sq the Howe Sound Forum/mtg; invitation of Lions Bay mayor

Port Mellon using coal so faster burn; particulates that wd come from mill, effects on Howe Sound; Min of Envmt staff was there; broad discussion; test period; then some facts and figs

one thing kind of curious; didn't think the Min of the Envmt had a lot of power

they'll do/take test and maybe make statements, but wd they ever say outright you can't burn coal

what I understand from going to Gibsons, is that the economic work base is that mill so challenge

> RD: with you, attended reception celebration for Elspeth Bradbury on publication of beautiful book, [WV] A View Through the Trees; want to draw to attention of public can be purchased from the author, get info from M hall; reception attended by 100 ppl at the Library; deals with history of WV in terms of trees, logging, parks, trails, she's a landscape architect, was mbr of HAC, and has been involved in various cmnty activities.

Mayor: thank you Cclr Day; and I do apologize to Cclr Smith that I had to get up and find you your book; I do appreciate that you were able to fill in for me on Saturday night.

> MS: Just wanted to quickly say I did attend the dinner-dance for the Soroptimist Club and the proceeds; they had had a silent and a live auction, that's why I had to wait for you to return; b/c proceeds going to the Lookout Shelter, a cause I'm sure you'd want to support.  I just have to inform you that I was bidding v aggressively on your behalf, so they'll be contacting you shortly.

[laughter]

>Mayor: thank you, and also thank you Cclr V who's been attending events all over the place on my behalf as well.  Seems to be a v busy month

quick update: two public mtgs on dogs -- fees, ways to improve

Doug Leavers putting together a mountain of input of feedback we'ver rec'd and what other Ms are doing; status report Nov 19

understand Halloween quieter than usual, didn't seem so to me; talked to both Fire and Police and they report [fewer] incidents; good compliance

main msg: parents shd not buy fireworks for chn and send them out into street; educ working

congratulate ev involved in opening the Cmnty Partner Ctr last week: Coho Society, WV Cmnty Fdn,Chamber of Commerce, the Spirit Cmte, our staff have collaborated in an exciting new home across from West Van Florist; just a beginning of many cmnty events to be held down there, already partnerships forming that didn't exist before amongst cmnty groups that are already established; that was another wonderful event.

~ 9:45

Joan Beninger: a couple of comments wrt report by Josie Chuback

a lot of talk about staying within budget, done so at the expense of what was a core component of the prev cmnty ctr

secondly, Ccl shd take heed of why add'l three-month delay; demographics of seniors, here's a situation where you have a substantial number of seniors

had for over 30 years; postponed, whatever, not in this ctr

technical place, we were assured by mayor that those costs wd be given to us by Josie last June; don't think beyond capability, some put pottery studios in their homes

you indicated might be a status report; potentially what do in future

nevertheless shd be some planning given, it appears not going to be able to provide facility despite...

Ccl consider some way of doing so in this budget ... in add'n to Srs' Ctr... $2.7M tying it into repair budget, not feasible

all we're asking is some thought be given to it and some time frame

great deal of rhetoric; offered our services as far back as 2004; no answer other than wait and see

want some sort of commitment toward the delivery of services that hv bn available for decades

9:51

Aline Brown: here mostly to bring to your attention that the Planning Dept has received a request for a demolition permit for the Graham residence on Isleview road

don't know if you're aware of the Graham residence and its importance to architectural history of WV

Some effort shd be made to explain to the new owners of this property exactly what the history is and if we can possibly delay demolish the permit until we see the plans, or we adopt the Heritage Register ... on board

I'm fairly certain this residence wd be listed in the Heritage Registry

Mayor: Ccl is aware. Mr Nicholls, wd you like to describe

SJN: We are aware of that; we have advisers going to the Heritage WG as well

AB: wondering if the demo permit can be held until the plans for the replacement are available

SJN: we wd not legally be able to do that; we are trying to assess what the situation is right now, and what the intent is.

We have had staff out at the site.  The bldg does not appear to be in particularly good condition so we're trying to figure out ... what are the circumstances that have allowed it

AB: b/c a local resident... there is a Stevens Drive Erickson home that was older and it [Graham House] cd not be in as bad a condition as the one on Stevens Drive is, and the individual with an architect has done an absolutely incredible job of preserving this one

All I can say is, that if someone suggested in the US that they were going to pull down the Falling Water House

there'd be a riot and this is reasonably comparable in Arthur Erickson's list of accomplishments; tyvm

Mayor: thank you.  Next, Carolanne Reynolds.  Is this the one-two punch?

CR (warning to Readers: I do seem to be stumbling over my words and disjointed phrases so pls bear with this): Well, I just--  I was otherwise involved....  just got an email just before I came that Aline Brown was going to say something.

I got some further information since then, but what I was going to speak about we can speak about later after the...[too fast to decipher]

somebody who knew about the tree was going to be kept

when it was reported the end of last week that it was an offshore owner or something and it was going to be done, I've been trying to find out more about it ever since

and the quotation I have in my newsletter

it's right at the front, this Heritage Alert, we've got to find out what we can do, and the quotation I have from Arthur Erickson in his book says:

"The David Graham house in 1963 launched my reputation as the architect you went to when you had an impossible site."

I did phone, and as a result of the information I have this afternoon is that the application for demolition was placed by Mr Lalji, and I'm sure someone of his stature probably is not aware or he wdn't be doing this and so I think... and I've also had a whole list, wch I can give to you later, Mayor Goldsmith-Jones, of ppl who had a list of things that we can do

I think, Geoffrey Massey was also involved

it's considered Erickson's house, it's a gem, it's on our primary list that we have... and so I think with the information to the ppl who are involved, to find out what they want, um, if they think it's beyond repair

I'm sure if we went to Mr Erickson, he'd be able to help

Mayor: all of the ideas you have wd be welcomed by Mr Nicholls and Stephen Mikicich on this

I had asked if we had greater levels of protection, cd someone still get a demolition permit

SJN: yes, Madam Mayor.  If you designate a bldg as a heritage bldg then you're subject to compensation in doing that, so the designations we have have been voluntary.  The one private one and the public ones have been voluntary.

If you establish a registry of heritage bldgs it allows you to delay the issuance of a demolition permit but only to the point where Ccl is, holds, in other words, it comes to the next ccl mtg after that and that's the length of time you're allowed to withhold it.

Mayor: we're just trying to preserve it.  I just have to say for a moment--

JC: point of order, Madam Mayor

SJN:--the Laljis. I don't believe the Lalji is one of the Lalji family mbrs that are in Vancouver

JC: extension for ten minutes

Mayor: is there a seconder? in favour?  fails; we are adjourned, however this is being taken up by staff

but moral suasion I think we can help

MS: Madam Mayor, I did not vote against that so--

Mayor: Cclr Sop did

MS: well, I think there's a gentleman who's been sitting here all night

Mayor: is our procedure bylaw still unanimous?

SSch: it is

Mayor: we need to pass our procedure bylaw and update it, but that's the Ccl rules

I do think mbrs of Ccl will be av

Sop: I'll change my vote for five minutes, if there's someone else to speak

Mayor: the ... procedure bylaw, is the moral of the story

is that all right? reopen the mtgs for five minutes

SSch: don't know if question was called, so that wd be fine, Madam Mayor

Mayor: I did call the question

Ssch: once the question was called?

[YES]

SSch: then it cannot extend at this point

Mayor: I know.  Ccl Sop didn't mean to vote against that; sorry about that but mbrs of Ccl who wish to pursue this will stay and will talk to you and make sure it's at next ccl mtg

CR: I'm madly impressed Cclr Smith didn't vote it down, but surprised by Cclr Sop

Mayor: motion to adjourn; motion carries

14. ADJOURNMENT

**************************************************************************************************

Again,

here is the website for views of the house: http://www.arthurerickson.com/H_grah.html ).

UPDATES -- Events starting to move:

~  Both the Arthur Erickson Conservancy and the Arthur Erickson Foundation have been informed and become involved.

~  Book has just been published (a year or two ago; photo taken then) in Chinese on Arthur Erickson's architecture, and it has a photo of the Graham residence.

~  The house has had tenants until recently.

~  Demolition permit has not yet been issued.

~  Still trying to contact owner (see PQP above).  Owner lives in London.  Lalji family forced out of Uganda so that wd mean probably Ismaili.  Understand may be some connection with Larco who own Park Royal -- if so, hope able to convey the significance of this architectural jewel, and once informed there will be avenues and opportunities for dialogue.

~  Architect is Paul Fedusiak we think -- I googled, here's his site: http://www.goldwoodhomes.com/

~  You have many of my comments in WVM 34, here's another notable quotation for you:

...

===  BOOK REVIEW  === from The Economist 2007 Oct 11

Books & Arts  -- Israel's settlers

[The rest of the review can be found at http://www.economist.com/books/displayStory.cfm?story_id=9941757&fsrc=nwlehfree ]

One student turned in the following book report, with the proposition that they were nearly identical stories!  His cool professor gave him an A+ for this report.

        Titanic:..... cost - $29.99

        Clinton:..... cost - $29.99

                Titanic:..... Over three hours to read

                Clinton:..... Over three hours to read

        Titanic:..... The story of Jack and Rose, their forbidden love, and subsequent catastrophe.

        Clinton:..... The story of Bill and Monica, their forbidden love, and subsequent catastrophe.

                        Titanic:..... Jack is a starving artist.

                        Clinton :..... Bill is a bullsh*t artist.

                Titanic:..... In one scene, Jack enjoys a good cigar.

                Clinton:..... Ditto for Bill.

        Titanic:..... During the ordeal, Rose's dress gets ruined.

        Clinton:..... Ditto for Monica.

                        Titanic:..... Jack teaches Rose to spit.

                        Clinton:..... Let's not go there.

        Titanic:..... Rose gets to keep her jewelry

        Clinton:..... Monica's forced to return her gifts.

                        Titanic:..... Rose remembers Jack for the rest of her life.

                        Clinton:..... Clinton doesn't remember Jack.

                                Titanic:..... Rose goes down on a vessel full of seamen.

                                Clinton:..... Monica...ooh, let's not go there, either.

                Titanic:..... Jack surrenders to an icy death.

                Clinton:..... Bill goes home to Hilary -- basically the same thing.

        ADRA  =   Ambleside and Dundarave Ratepayers' Association (Assn)

        BPAHA  =   British Properties Area Homeowners' Assn (newsletter: HillTop News}

        DNA  =  Dundarave Neighbourhood Assn

        WRA  =   Western Residents' Assn

        WVHS  =   West Vancouver Historical Society

        K = 1000; m - meter; M = million; sq ft/sf = square foot/feet; sftg = square footage

Whatever people in general do not understand, they are always prepared to dislike; the incomprehensible is always the obnoxious.                -- Letitia E. Landon, author (1802 - 1838)

The mind is its own place, and in itself / Can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven.

                        -- John Milton (1608 - 1674) [Paradise Lost]

Since we are destined to live out our lives in the prison of our minds, our one duty is to furnish it well.

                        -- Peter Ustinov, actor, writer, and director (1921 - 2004)

Those who build beneath the stars build too low.        -- Edward Young, English poet (1683 - 1765)