Letters to the Editor: January 29, 2014

Order honours excellence

A golden opportunity awaits anyone who wishes to take part in the public recognition of individuals who demonstrate outstanding achievement, excellence and distinction in their particular fields of endeavour by nominating someone for the Order of British Columbia [“Nominations sought,” January 15].

Nominations are now being received for the 2014 competition. If you know anyone in this community who has truly led by example, I encourage you to nominate them for the Order of BC. Nominations must be received by the first Friday in March to be considered this year. Nominations received after this will be included in the selection process for the next calendar year. An independent advisory council, chaired by the Chief Justice of British Columbia, will consider nominations.

Since 1990, 345 British Columbians from all walks of life and many regions of the province have received the Order of British Columbia, the province’s highest award. Recipients include:

1990 Grace MacInnis, Sechelt MP, MLA, women’s advocate;

1994 Ric Careless, Gibsons environmental activist;

1996 Jack K. Harman, Gibsons sculptor and foundry operator;

1997 Geraldine Braak, Powell River community service;

1997 Frances L. Fleming, Sechelt education;

1997 Howard White, Madeira Park arts.

Nomination forms are available from the Honours and Awards Secretariat in Victoria 1.250.387.1616, or online. They can be submitted by mail to Honours and Awards Secretariat, P.O. Box 9422, Stn. Prov. Govt, Victoria, BC V8W 9V1, fax 1.250.356.2814.

Here is your opportunity to participate in the appointment of deserving British Columbians to the Order of British Columbia. The process begins with a nomination.

I appreciate you for making it happen.

Nicholas Simons, MLA

Powell River-Sunshine Coast

Jim Rose’s January 22 viewpoint, “Libraries versus Internet,” holds potential for finding common ground regarding a better library space. Here’s why.

Although steeped in electronic technology, Rose finds cause to assert that, “Libraries definitely have a place in our society as does the wireless world. Both of them are tools to be used to further oneself…”  Then he urges us to “put more effort into the library, not the location.” The Powell River Public Library board sees these as hopeful expressions although it believes, along with most everyone, that libraries and electronic technology have already merged and that there’s no need to choose one over the other.

The board has consistently stated that any new library site, meeting essential basic criteria, can support an excellent library. Once City of Powell River council chose Willingdon South, the board went right to work producing a conceptual design for that site which many of you have seen.

Now, in response to its concern about public support for council’s choice of the Willingdon South site, the board recommended (back in September 2013) that council create designs for one or two additional sites and then consult with the public regarding their preferences. If council chooses a new site meeting essential basic criteria, the board will roll up its sleeves and work on a conceptual design once again.

It is encouraging that residents like Rose are reaching conclusions that are compatible with the board’s. We hope others also see reason to move ahead to improve this vital community service.

Rob Arnstein, library trustee

Klahanie Drive