In camera meetings
Huh? What exactly does that even mean [“Council’s schedule needs revisiting,” May 29]? Is there someone filming meetings that the public can see later? Fat chance. Call them what they really are—secret meetings to talk and take actions the average citizen might not like, let alone support. I doubt there’s a camera, but there might be someone taking notes. I don’t know, I haven’t been to one yet. There are actually some municipalities that have more in camera meetings than “regular” ones.
There’s lots of talk here on informing the public, and getting them more involved, but when they read out the gobbledygook that allows these secret meetings, the only member of council I can ever remember voting against it is Russell Brewer. He’s a young guy. He’ll get over it.
Cleve Hamilton
Stittle Road
Day of fitness
National Health and Fitness Day (NHFD) in Canada on June 1 was a huge success this year because of the involvement of cities such as Powell River [“Weekend activities highlight fitness,” May 29]. The city was one of the first to sign on last year to the initiative, offering health and fitness opportunities free of charge to its citizens. Building on last year’s commitment to community, the City of Powell River and a number of local clubs this year offered introduction to health and fitness activities that exemplify the spirit of NHFD.
I introduced a private member’s bill in the House of Commons to have the first Saturday in June proclaimed National Health and Fitness Day in the hope that Canada would strive to become the world’s healthiest nation. Now in its second year, NHFD is growing and expanding to involve some of Canada’s metropolitan areas, but the activities in places such as Powell River are the heart and soul of the movement.
To encourage involvement, the city provided access to its recreational facilities and set up a Passport to Fitness program. Participants receiving three stamps for activities they tried received one personal fitness pass and had their names entered into a draw for 10 free passes. A number of residents participated in three or more activities, and a 74-year-old male resident tried them all. A group of three women encouraged each other and nearly finished all of the activities, also. From track and field, to biking, horseshoes and table tennis, Powell Riverites availed themselves of the opportunity to participate in fun fitness activities. Hopefully, for those who are not already active, NHFD will prompt them to consider being more actively involved.
Powell River has already proven itself to be one of the most successful NHFD cities in Canada. My hope is that just as mighty oaks grow from acorns, that initiative shown by Powell River, its various clubs and its citizens, will result in an even stronger, fitter and healthier community and nation.
John Weston, MP
West Vancouver–Sunshine Coast–Sea to Sky Country
