RODEO TIME | Get ready for the 94th annual Falkland Stampede this holiday long weekend [A10]
Morning gStar
The
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starting at
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w w w. v e r n o n m o r n i n g s t a r. c o m
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F O R
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1999
$ 22 HP Kohler, 42” cutting deck.
SINCE 1965
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
V-TWIN
Y E A R S
SERVICE
PARTS
SAVOY EQUIPMENT
LTD.
3202 29TH Street, Vernon
250-545-0627 • Kelowna • West Kelowna
Opt-out sought on meters RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Staff
Kitchen reno bolsters mission RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Staff
A major face lift has lifted spirits at the Upper Room Mission. The Vernon agency unveiled its new kitchen to clients Monday after eight weeks of renovations. “I walked in and went, ‘Thank you Lord, it’s so beautiful,’” said Linda Price, kitchen supervisor. The kitchen, which has doubled in size, is bright and open and has separate areas dedicated to cooking, meal preparation and dish washing. Previously, duct tape held cabinets together, the floor was rotting, counters were too low and residential appliances gave out under the steady demand that comes from upwards of 250 meals a day. “It’s like night and day. I’m really, really happy,” said Price. Challenging circumstances had become so routine, Price is having to adjust to her new
NO COMPARISON. NO COMPROMISE.
FORD.
surroundings, including having a convection oven. “I had omelettes done in 15 minutes instead or 40 minutes or more,” she said. Clients are thrilled with the renovations. “They’ve done a really good job here,” said Fred (not his real name), who works but has a limited budget. “This is good for people making ends meet.” While the kitchen was closed, dining service was unavailable and bag lunches were given to clients. “They missed being able to sit down and hang around and visit after,” said Lisa Froom, general manager. “We’re now back into the routine of connecting more.” And because of the increased space in the kitchen, those relationships are expected to expand. “Guests will be able to help with dish duties so they feel involved,” said Froom.
But while the kitchen is open, one major challenge remains. About $87,000 is still required to cover the $165,000 project cost. “We had to move forward in faith. We had no choice,” said Froom of proceeding with renovations despite not having all of the money in place. Funding sources are being sought and there’s one easy way for residents to participate. “Pennies are going out (of circulation) so we’re collecting them,” said Froom. The project was able to be completed because of significant community support to date. “We had a lot of volunteer labour with the demolition and construction,” said Froom. “I don’t know where we would be without that.” To donate to the kitchen, drop by the Upper Room Mission at 3403 27th Ave. or call 250-549-1231.
2012 FORD FIESTA & FOCUS
0
% FINANCING
WATKIN MOTORS
4602 - 27 ST, VERNON | SALES • LEASING • PARTS • SERVICE 250-545-0611 • 1-800-736-1944 • WATKINMOTORS.COM
up to 72 months OAC
DLR. #6076
JENNIFER SMITH/MORNING STAR
Linda Price, kitchen supervisor, enjoys the new, spacious kitchen as she prepares lunch for clients at the Upper Room Mission Tuesday.
Vernon officials don’t want smart meters forced on to anyone. Council unanimously voted Monday to urge B.C. Hydro to develop an optout procedure for customers who don’t want the remote monitoring devices installed. “I believe people should be given the right to decide what goes on their houses,” said Coun. Bob Spiers. Spiers points to Quebec where residents there can refuse meters as long as they cover Bob Spiers the costs involved with traditional meter reading. Council’s decision comes after a presentation from Citizens for Safe Technology. The group claims microwave radiation exposure can create a range of health issues, while the utility will know what appliances you are using by monitoring the meter. B.C. Hydro insists the devices do not present a health concern and do not interfere with privacy. “I have no concerns with smart meters and I’d have one in my house but people should have the right to opt out,” said Coun. Brian Quiring. While council’s motion will be forwarded to Hydro, there is little confidence the Crown corporation will shift direction. “Nothing will happen,” said Spiers. “B.C. Hydro won’t back down and we will all get smart meters.” However, Mayor Rob Sawatzky insists that local governments must represent the interests of their residents. “Hopefully those in power will reflect on this and consider what the community wants,” he said.