BC Young Liberals :: News

Joan McIntyre parade, Reception with the Premier and Social with Dave Hayer

2008-06-13T15:41:00.000-07:00

Photos are up for the Community Day Parade with MLA Joan McIntyre, which many members of the BCYL participated in. There are also photos up for all previous events (Believe to come soon...).

We also have two events on the horizon - on the 22nd of June we're holding our Annual Reception with Premier Gordon Campbell. Last year, over 150 members attended this event - this year, let's make it 250! This year we're holding it at SFU Harbour Centre in Downtown Vancouver, right by Waterfront Station! RSVP by joining the Facebook event and RSVPing with BCYL President Chris Sandve at chris.sandve@bcliberals.com.

On the 24th, we're holding a pub social with Surrey-Tynehead MLA Dave Hayer. This social will be held at Central City Pub, which is very close to Surrey Central Skytrain Station. For only $10, you get a burger (beef, chicken, or veggie) and a drink (beer, high ball, or pop) - and minors are permitted. RSVP on the Facebook event or e-mail Organizer Rick Orlando at
rick.orlando.lib@hotmail.com.

Facebook Application

2008-03-25T21:42:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,

The much awaited Facebook profile badge is up and ready. I've done my best to keep it small and essential, but it will likely see a few more significant changes over the next little while. So far it only displays in the right-hand frame of Facebook.

You can find the about page where you can add it here. Simply click the Add Application button and you'll be in good shape! On the page provided there is a wall and a discussion forum with a topic already started by me. If you notice anything out of the ordinary (as in a bug) or have any ideas for the application, feel free to post them there.

As of right now, Chris Sandve and myself both have this application added - if you want to see how it looks before adding it, you can do so by browsing either of our pages.

Again folks, feedback is very greatly appreciated.

P.S. That link again is http://www.facebook.com/apps/application.php?id=22296884240.

Photos up for several events

2008-03-25T13:01:00.000-07:00

Photos are up for March 14th's Martinis with Mary Polak, February 29th's Quesnel Dinner, the Fraser Valley Road to Victory Tour that took place from the 22nd to the 29th of February, the BCYL Social with MLA Harry Bloy,the Spirit Square Announcement in Burnaby, and the post-budget speech and Burnaby Board of Trade Lunch with Premier Gordon Campbell, all of which took place on the 22nd of February.

Stay tuned for updates from BELIEVE, held last weekend.

Event Cancelled

2008-03-06T16:58:00.000-08:00

The March 19th event with Kevin Falcon at Rusty's in Cloverdale has been canceled.

Past Events, Events with Kevin Falcon, Imagine 2020 @ UBC, and BELIEVE!

2008-02-23T00:57:00.000-08:00

http://www.bcyl.ca/media/080123southislandbreakfast2.jpg" height="300" width="400" />

On February 14th, members from the UNBC BCYL attended a Premier's Dinner in Prince George. On the same day down in SFU, BCYL members gave away free hot chocolate and signed up many new members. On the 12th, members attended the Throne Speech Reception held in Victoria. From February 8th to the 10th, the BCYL continued it's Road to Victory in the Interior, dropping off over 4000 flyers. On the same day, enthusiastic UNBC BCYL members attended a UNBC Timberwolves game, sporting BCYL apparel. On the 5th, over 30 members made it out for the BCYL Super Tuesday Social to watch the US Super Tuesday Primaries. On January 26th, the BCYL hosted yet another Imagine 2020 Policy Session, this time in Prince George, and on the 23rd BCYL members made it to the BC Liberals South Island Breakfast in Victoria.

On the 29th of February and the 19th of March, the BCYL is holding two seperate socials with Minister of Transportation Kevin Falcon - the first held at Mahony & Son's Restaurant @ UBC and the second at Rusty's Pub in Cloverdale. Be sure to check the event pages for more details. The Minister recently announced a $14 billion transit plan, and either (or both!) of these events are a perfect opportunity for you to talk with the Minister about the plan - or any other issue on your mind.

On March 1, 2008, the UBC BCYL is holding an Imagine 2020 Policy Session. These policy sessions provide a great opportunity for youth to voice their concerns, generate ideas, and ultimately let their voices be heard! Even if you've already been to an Imagine 2020 policy session you're welcome to come to this one!

Finally, from March 20th to the 23rd (Easter Weekend), the BCYL will be hosting its first ever BELIEVE! BCYL Convention. This convention will train youth to be an effective part of the party in 2009 with a variety of skill training workshops. The BCYL has gone from a collection of volunteers to the most active youth organization in Canada and this convention will allow members to take their volunteer skills one step further and help ensure a BC Liberal government in 2009.

Keep your eyes peeled for more photos in the very near future!

P.S. - the flickr page is completely up-to-date and accessible at http://flickr.com/photos/bcyl/sets

Budget 2008 - Greener Future, Stronger Economy

2008-02-20T16:27:00.000-08:00

February 19, 2008

VICTORIA — A wide range of new measures to address climate change, promote greener choices, and encourage economic investment will allow British Columbia to meet the challenges of the future, Finance Minister Carole Taylor announced with the release of Balanced Budget 2008.

“This budget marks a turning point,” said Taylor. “It overturns the notion that you have to choose either a healthy environment or a strong economy. It will help keep British Columbia vibrant and growing, it takes a big step toward meeting the challenge of climate change, and it strengthens key public services like health care and education.”

To help reduce B.C.’s greenhouse gas emissions by one-third by 2020, Balanced Budget 2008 includes a revenue-neutral carbon tax, provides $440 million for a one-time Climate Action Dividend, and over $1 billion for a broad range of climate action programs and tax incentives.

Effective July 1, 2008, subject to approval by the legislature, British Columbia will introduce a fully revenue-neutral carbon tax with built in protection for lower income British Columbians. The tax will begin at a low rate and increase gradually to give individuals and businesses time to adjust. It will apply to virtually all fossil fuels, including gasoline, diesel, natural gas, coal, propane, and home heating fuel — making it among the broadest and most comprehensive in the world.

Legislation will require a plan to be tabled in the legislature each year, showing how the revenue raised will be returned to businesses and individuals. None of the carbon tax revenue will be used for expenditure programs.

“The principle is simple,” said Taylor. “Tax carbon emitting fuels to discourage their use, and give the money back to people, back to businesses, so they have control. They can make their own choices about how the tax affects them. At the same time, by making greener choices more commercially viable, it will stimulate innovation and open up new economic opportunities across British Columbia.”

The carbon tax is forecast to generate approximately $1,849 million over three years. This revenue will be returned to businesses and individuals through a new Climate Action Credit for persons with lower incomes ($395 million) and reductions to personal income tax rates ($784 million), the small business income tax rate ($255 million), and the general corporate income tax rate ($415 million).

In addition to the revenue-neutral tax reductions, every British Columbia resident will receive a one-time, $100 Climate Action Dividend to help people adopt greener lifestyles. At a total cost of $440 million, the dividend payments will be issued in June, before the new carbon tax takes effect. It is the government’s hope that British Columbians will apply the funds toward purchases that can help reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and, by doing so, the amount of carbon tax they would otherwise pay.

The budget also provides, over four years, more than $1 billion to encourage energy efficiency, implement new regulatory requirements, undertake cutting-edge research and make low-carbon investments. These climate action initiatives include: new funding for home energy audits and retrofits; sales tax exemptions for ENERGY STAR appliances; up to $2,000 in reduced sales tax on the purchase of fuel efficient vehicles; a new biodiesel production incentive; an expanded venture capital program aimed at clean technology companies; and funding to reduce emissions at B.C.’s ports and commercial truck stops.

“While the economic forecast sees British Columbia continuing to outperform Canada and the U.S., weakening conditions south of the border and international uncertainty show how important it is to maintain a prudent approach,” said Taylor. "It’s also a reminder that we must always explore new ways to make B.C.’s economy more competitive, innovative, and diverse."

Balanced Budget 2008 delivers $407 million in targeted tax reductions and $428 million in new investments to improve British Columbia’s competitiveness and build on our strengths. Tax measures include: improvements to B.C.’s Film Tax Credits; lower provincial property tax rates on major industrial properties; replacing the financial institutions capital tax with a minimum tax; improvements stemming from the Provincial Sales Tax Review; and changes to the International Finance Act to expand the types of patents and activities eligible for tax refunds.

“This year, our province celebrates 150 years of growth and progress,” said Taylor. “As we look back on the legacies of the past, it reminds us that we all have a choice about how future generations will remember us. I hope we will be remembered as the generation that took action, that showed respect for the environment, who set the foundation for a strong economy, and built a legacy to be proud of.”

For the Finance Minister’s speech and more about details on Balanced Budget 2008, visit www.gov.bc.ca/bcbudget online.

Throne Speech Lays Groundwork for Next Generations

2008-02-12T16:38:00.000-08:00

February 12, 2008

VICTORIA – The fourth session of the 38th parliament was launched today with a speech from the throne that lays out new measures to create safe, secure communities, build excellence in education, further strengthen the New Relationship with First Nations, and give British Columbians options to become personally involved in combating climate change.

“Many members of this legislature will not be alive in 2050, but most have or will have children and grandchildren who will be. It is for them that today’s decision makers must take action,” said Premier Gordon Campbell. “By living smarter, we can save energy, water, fuel consumption, time and money. We can reduce waste and get better value from our land, our limited natural resources and our tax dollars.”

A healthy environment and educated populace are essential to healthy human development and a globally competitive economy. A safe, humane society is the object and outcome of an enlightened, prosperous and caring community. The bedrock of each goal is a strong economy.

Government outlines new LiveSmart BC strategy:

LiveSmart BC will reward smart choices that will save energy, water, fuel, time and money.
The new LiveSmart BC initiative will help to contain urban sprawl and reward development that creates more affordable housing, new green spaces and more people-friendly neighbourhoods.
Consumers will be given new tools to help conserve energy and save money on their power bills, such as Power Smart meters that will be installed in every home in British Columbia by 2012. That will give families new information and control over their power consumption.
New “inclining block” rate structures will also allow families to choose and save by making Power Smart choices.
These changes and the BC Energy Plan will be supported by a new legislated direction for the BC Utilities Commission.
Green developments waiting for provincial environmental approvals will be fast-tracked and given priority.
The new Green Building Code will be finalized and implemented to save energy and water.
All new provincial public buildings will be constructed to LEED Gold or equivalent standards. Existing buildings will be retrofitted to make them more energy efficient, climate friendly and healthier for public servants.
Higher densities will be encouraged around new transit routes to help make them more affordable and create affordable housing.
Legislation will require local governments to incorporate greenhouse gas reduction targets and supporting strategies in their Official Community Plans and Regional Growth Strategies.
Legislation will be introduced this session to facilitate British Columbia’s participation in a regional “cap and trade” system that is being developed under the Western Climate Initiative. The framework for that system is scheduled for completion this year.
A new Citizens’ Conservation Council will support B.C.’s mitigation efforts with public education campaigns that will give citizens the tools and information they need to make informed choices.
A new Youth Climate Leadership Alliance will be formed that will comprise students and other young people from across B.C. It will undertake paid government-sponsored field research, mitigation work, afforestation projects and adaptation efforts.
A new Youth LiveSmart outreach campaign will encourage young British Columbians to make carbon-smart lifestyle choices that are good for the environment, their health, their pocketbooks and our planet.
The Scrap-It program will be expanded to get older vehicles with higher emissions off the road.
Other LiveSmart BC education and outreach initiatives will be launched by the government and the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions.

Other initiatives to safeguard the environment and tackle climate change include:

The Province will pursue a goal of zero net deforestation, and work with First Nations, industry and communities to put that goal into law by 2010 and establish a viable strategy for realizing that vision by 2015.
A new Trees for Tomorrow program will launch a large, urban afforestation initiative. Millions of trees will be planted in backyards, schoolyards, hospital grounds, civic parks, campuses, parking lots and other public spaces across B.C.
Major investments in tree nurseries will be made to assist this initiative.
All forest land currently identified as not sufficiently restocked will be replanted and no “NSR” backlogs will be allowed to develop in ensuing years.
The Forests for Tomorrow program will plant an additional 60 million seedlings over the next four years.
The discharge of landfill gas will be regulated to foster the capture and conversion of emissions into clean energy.
A new “Brownfields to Greenfields” redevelopment strategy will target existing “dirty” sites for the creation of well-treed, green, liveable communities.
Standards for low-carbon fuel content will be adopted to reduce the carbon intensity of motor vehicle fuels by 10 per cent by 2020, and new incentives will be created to encourage the purchase of fuel efficient vehicles.
The new BC Bioenergy Strategy will create new opportunities in clean technology for rural communities, for independent power producers, and for our forest and agriculture industries.
New investments will be made in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered buses, clean retrofits of dirty diesel trucks and the electrification of truck stops.
The Innovative Clean Energy Fund will help create 100,000 solar roofs in British Columbia and build on B.C.’s expertise in solar technology.
A new Pacific Carbon Trust will foster economic growth from new opportunities in carbon credit trading and carbon offsets. The Trust will invest in made-in-B.C. offset projects that produce emissions reductions that are permanent, measurable, verifiable, and additional, and that are regulated by government. Projects in energy efficiency, renewable energy, carbon capture and sequestration – including incremental tree planting – will all be eligible.
The Trust will manage the revenues generated from government’s plan to become carbon neutral by 2010. It will be open to offset purchases from private citizens, companies and other governments alike.
The Province will expand British Columbia’s hydrometric and other climate-related networks to improve our ability to monitor, predict and adapt to these conditions.
The legislature will be asked to adopt new California-equivalent vehicle tailpipe emission standards, in tandem with California and a number of other states and provinces.
Amendments to the Wildlife Act will build on the Mountain Caribou Recovery Plan, the Vancouver Island Marmot Recovery Project and the Kitasoo Spirit Bear Conservancy.
Tough new penalties will prevent and punish poaching and killing endangered species.
Comprehensive air and water stewardship strategies will be released this spring, as new steps are taken to combat global warming.
This session, all members will be asked to build on the record of environmental stewardship with new conservancies and parks envisioned in approved land use plans.
A climate action plan will be released shortly after the budget. It will be annually updated and founded on personal responsibility, sound science and economic reality.

Live smart means safe, supportive communities. Initiatives to create safe, secure communities include:

A comprehensive review of sentencing practices will address why sentences in B.C. tend to be shorter than in other provinces for crimes such as theft, homicide, property crimes, fraud, impaired driving and drug possession. It will also assess how the federal government’s anti-crime measures might affect demands on our police, Crown prosecutors, courts and correctional system.
That information will contribute to a Community Safety Strategy that will be released this fall. That strategy will include enhanced policing, new community courts and expanded correctional capacity.
Amendments to the Police Act will aim to implement Josiah Wood’s recommendations to improve transparency, accountability and public confidence in the police complaints process.
An updated 10-year mental health plan will be completed.
Patients with severe mental illnesses who require intensive, sustained and complex medical treatment will be provided care in new and existing facilities at Willingdon in Burnaby, which will be retrofitted and opened this year, and at Riverview in Coquitlam.
A new multi-year investment will be made to revitalize Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Anchored by the new Woodward’s project, new public initiatives will be undertaken in partnership with the city and the neighbourhoods to enhance the 40-block area that includes Gastown, Chinatown, Strathcona and Japantown.
Communities will be required to include provision for mental health and addiction service facilities in their community plans.
Expanded outreach programs will help lift people out of the street and offer them personalized support.
A “211” service, in partnership with the United Way, will be launched to give citizens new telephone access to information about the full range of social services offered in their communities.
The Province will work with local governments to explore the potential to further integrate policing and to examine the possibilities for amalgamating police forces.
More will also be done, as government implements the Hughes recommendations on child protection, improves programs to prevent violence against women, and increases support to people with developmental disabilities, children with special needs and their families.

New initiatives to strengthen the New Relationship with B.C.’s First Nations include:

Support for fast-tracked treaty negotiations at common tables, as suggested by the BC Treaty Commission and First Nations.
Pursuing “incremental treaty agreements” to help First Nations benefit earlier in the treaty-making process.
Aboriginal rights to harvest wood for domestic purposes on Crown land will be given new statutory recognition.
New investments in carbon offset projects that benefit First Nations will be an integral part of government’s climate action plan.
The Province will work with First Nations and the federal government to put Jordan’s Principle into action, and to strengthen services for Aboriginal children and families. That principle says the interests of Aboriginal children must always be paramount, and that no child, on- or off-reserve, should be put at risk due to jurisdictional disputes.
New legislation will enable Aboriginal authorities to assume legal responsibility for the delivery of most child and family services in their communities.
The Province will contribute to the establishment of the Stehiyaq Healing and Wellness Village in the Fraser Valley.
New mechanisms will facilitate effective engagement of all parties in meaningful consultation and help First Nations participate as equity partners in major economic development projects.

New initiatives to build educational excellence include:

A new program leading to a certificate in leadership will be introduced for teachers.
New powers will be given to the College of Teachers to remove the teaching certificate of any member who is found to be incompetent.
New steps will be taken to expand B.C.’s public university system, provide new clarity of purpose in our post-secondary institutions and create new opportunities for higher learning. Funding will be targeted where it is needed most, to meet skills demands with added training capacity for skilled workers.
The Provincial Nominee Program and the successful Skills Connect for Immigrants program will be expanded to help meet the demand for skilled workers.
Post-secondary students will be given new consumer protection as institutional accountability is strengthened under the new Education Quality Assurance program.
A major new arts endowment will provide lasting benefits to all British Columbians.
Steps will be taken to enhance the Vancouver Art Gallery’s international reputation as a showcase of B.C. art of all genres, cultures and regions.
The Province will support the establishment of a National Maritime Centre for the Pacific and the Arctic in North Vancouver.

New initiatives for B.C. children include:

Another 316 StrongStart BC centres will be added in the next two years, for a total of 400 in B.C. by 2010. StrongStart BC is a free, drop-in early learning program for preschool‑aged children accompanied by a parent or caregiver.
A new Early Childhood Learning Agency will be established. It will assess the feasibility and costs of full school day kindergarten for five-year-olds. It will also undertake a feasibility study of providing parents with the choice of day-long kindergarten for four-year-olds by 2010, and for three-year-olds by 2012. That report will be completed and released within the year.
A new Centre for Autism Education and Research will be developed that will provide a residential environment for children with autism and create a national hub for research and a centre for parental supports.
Creating new “Walking School Bus” and “Bicycle Train” programs to encourage children to walk or bicycle to school with adult supervision.
Enacting new legislation to ban smoking in vehicles when children are present.
Expanded pediatric oncology research will offer new hope for cancer prevention and treatment specifically focused on children.
Committing to the upgrading and expansion of BC Children’s Hospital.

Next week’s budget will build on other initiatives to support B.C.’s continued economic prosperity that include:

Pursuing creation of a new northern energy corridor from Prince Rupert to Prince George.
Pursue the next phase of the Port of Prince Rupert development, in co-operation with First Nations and the federal government.
Working with the federal government, a new integrated Pacific Ports Strategy will also be developed to make the most of Canada’s Pacific Gateway.
Amendments to the Employment Standards Act will improve protection for farm workers and prohibit agricultural producers from using unlicensed farm labour contractors.
The new Working Roundtable on Forestry will recommend new possibilities for forestry, including new tenures; and a 90-day regulatory and process review will cut unnecessary administrative and process costs.
New pension bridging opportunities will be developed for older workers nearing retirement. New training opportunities will also be offered to help forest workers who have been temporarily laid off to upgrade skills and earning potential.
The new BC Bioenergy Strategy will create new opportunities in cellulosic ethanol, biodiesel and other clean, renewable fuels.
The consultation now underway will continue to advance the potential for Site C, which could be a major economic catalyst for rural British Columbia in years to come.
A new British Columbia Agriculture Plan will ensure farming continues to have a bright future in B.C.

Know the Facts – Making Post Secondary Education Accessible and Affordable

2008-02-07T10:25:00.000-08:00

Here are some key facts on how the BC Liberals are making post secondary education accessible and affordable for students.

Know the Facts – Making Post Secondary Education Accessible and Affordable

• The BC Liberal government currently spends almost $150 million on student financial assistance per year (almost $1.5 billion since 2001).

• Last year the BC Liberal government forgave/reduced $77 million of loans for 24,000 students - the equivalent population of a small city. The NDP opposed this spending in the Legislature.

• In 2001, we created the BC loan forgiveness program to encourage highly needed occupations to work in rural and under served communities.

• The BC Liberal government currently spends almost $30 million a year on scholarships and bursaries.

• Scholarships for grad students include 1,000 scholarships worth $10,000 each over the next four years to masters, doctoral and post-doctoral students – announced in June 2007; Pacific Leadership Graduate Student Fellowships - $20,000 each, with careers in the BC Public Service after graduation; and also in June 2007.

• The Government pays 100 per cent of the interest on students’ loans for up to 10 years while they are enrolled in full-time studies. (unlike a car loan or credit card which continues to accrue interest).

• Since 2001, almost $1.5 billion has been spent in helping B.C. students overcome financial barriers to post-secondary education.

• Last year, the BC Liberal government paid $38 million in interest on behalf of students, while recovering only $26 million in interest payments. Taxpayers subsidized the rest.

• Half of BC students graduate without debt, and 90 percent of those who have borrowed are making their payments on time.

• StudentAidBC has Repayment Assistance Councillors to help students navigate the system. They are there to help the student understand the student loan system, and event to provide advice in managing finances when a former student runs into problems paying their debts.

• When disputes arise and can’t be resolved, the BC Ombudsman can provide valuable assistance both to the former students and to StudentAidBC in helping find solutions.

• The government has extensive networks to support students who apply, such as including loan reductions for those most in need, interest relief programs, and loan forgiveness programs.

• Institutions also provide assistance to ensure these options are explained and adjudicated fairly.

FREE "Super Tuesday" Pizza Social

2008-01-30T16:20:00.000-08:00

This Tuesday February 5th, members of the BC Young Liberals will be getting together at 5:00 PM at Boston Pizza (4219 Lougheed Highway in Burnaby) to watch the results of the “Super Tuesday” Presidential Primaries in the US. We’ll have FREE Pizza and Drinks for everyone.

If you'd like to join us please RSVP to info@bcyl.ca

This is also a great opportunity to chat with BCYL Executive members about what the BCYL is up to and how you can get involved. Make sure to invite your friends, everyone is welcome to attend!

Don’t worry if you can’t make it right at 5:00 PM, we’ll be there for most of the evening so just drop by when you can!

Hope to see you Tuesday!

SFU BCYL Weekly Executive Meetings

2008-01-29T23:55:00.000-08:00

This semester, the SFU BC Young Liberals will hold weekly Executive meetings every Thursday at 12:30 PM in the Highland Pub (on SFU’s Burnaby Campus). The first meeting will be this Thursday January 31st.

If you’re interested in becoming actively involved with the club this semester or if you just want to find out more about the BCYL and what we’re up to, please come out and join us this week or any other week during the semester.

New SFU BCYL Executive

2008-01-29T23:52:00.000-08:00

Last week the following individuals were appointed to the SFU BC Young Liberals Executive:

President – Wisam Abdulla
Vice President – Shahin Behroyan
Vice President – Dave O’Neil
Secretary – Alex Bournelis
Treasurer – Henry Ma
Policy Director – Mark Panneton
Recruitment Director – Chanelle Jen
Director-at-Large – Chris Sandve
Past President – Katy Merrifield

Congragulations and thank you to all Executive members!

If you would like to take on a more active role in the SFU BC Young Liberals, please contact us at info@bcyl.ca and we'll let you know how you can get more involved.

Photos from Imagine 2020 Forum in Prince George

2008-01-29T20:15:00.000-08:00

On Saturday January 26th, the BC Young Liberals hosted an Imagine 2020 Forum at the University of Northern British Columbia in Prince George. Over 20 students attended to discuss their vision for BC's future.

Photos from the event will be posted on the web site soon. For now, you can view these photos on Facebook at: http://unbc.facebook.com/album.php?aid=4799&l=272cd&id=127900121

Events photos!

2008-01-25T19:07:00.000-08:00

We have photos up from several recent great events!

On the 15th and the 17th, the SFU BCYL table at SFU's Clubs Days attracted over 30 new members!

On the 17th, the SFU BCYL held a Member Orientation Social that attracted twenty members for an informal gathering.

The BCYL also held it's largest Road to Victory tour yet, this time going to Vancouver Island! 24 members participated and volunteers dropped off over 6000 flyers in various communities! Check out the official website at www.roadtovictory.ca for more information!

Event with Kevin Falcon - Friday February 29th

2008-01-24T11:11:00.000-08:00

Last week, Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon announced a $14 billion dollar public transit plan for BC. Many BCYL members expressed their support for this plan but many also had questions, concerns and ideas that they wanted the Minister to hear.

To give you a chance to talk directly to the Minister about this transit plan and anything else that’s on your mind, the BCYL will be hosting an Event with Kevin Falcon on Friday February 29th at 2:15 PM at Mahony & Sons Restaurant (located on campus @ UBC at 5990 University Blvd, Vancouver). This is your chance to make your voice heard on BC”s public transit plan.

This event is open to everyone so please invite your friends and make an effort to attend. Free appetizers and drinks will be provided!

Please RSVP as soon as you can to info@bcyl.ca. Space is limited.

Photos from Vancouver Island Road to Victory Tour

2008-01-23T18:35:00.000-08:00

Photos from this weekend's Road to Victory Tour on Vancouver Island have been posted on Facebook.

View Album #1 at:
http://sfu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2066766&l=88ddb&id=116202225

View Album #2 at:
http://sfu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2066767&l=11def&id=116202225

These photos will be added to the web site soon.

Great Turnout at First Member Orientation Social

2008-01-18T08:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, the BC Young Liberals hosted the first "Member Orientation" Social at the SFU Highland Pub in Burnaby.

The event was a huge success - over 25 new and returning BCYL members attended and many brought friends with them.

The social featured free appetizers and drinks and provided an opportunity for people to learn more about the BC Young Liberals, ask questions and find out how they could become more involved.

Photos from this event will be posted on the web site soon. For now, you can check out the photos on Facebook at: http://sfu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2066235&l=e7f03&id=116202225

As this event was such a huge success, we will be hosting more "Member Orientation" Socials in the future! Keep checking bcyl.ca for news on future events!

SFU BCYL Clubs Days a Huge Success!

2008-01-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

The SFU BC Young Liberals recruited over 30 new members at Clubs Days this past Tuesday and Thursday!

Photos from Clubs Days will be posted on the web site soon. For now, you can check them out on Facebook at: http://sfu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2066234&l=b3988&id=116202225

BC Liberals Announce $14 Billion Public Transit Project to Reduce Greenhouse Gases

2008-01-15T07:49:00.001-08:00

Premier Gordon Campbell and Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon have unveiled a $14-billion public transit plan to be completed by 2020.

It is a key measure in the Province’s greenhouse gas reduction plan, touching every region of the province.

Highlights of the plan include:

$10.3-billion investment in four new rapid transit lines in Metro Vancouver – the Evergreen Line, the UBC Line, the upgraded Expo Line and the Canada Line (for which $2 billion was previously committed);
$1.2 billion for a new, cutting-edge energy efficient, high capacity RapidBus BC service along nine major routes in the high-growth urban centres of Kelowna, Victoria and Metro Vancouver; and
$1.6-billion investment in 1,500 new, clean energy buses and related maintenance infrastructure to provide communities around the province with improved bus service.

The plan calls for $14 billion in investments, including $11.1 billion in new funding, with the Province committing $4.75 billion, and the remainder from partners, including the federal government, TransLink and local governments.

Increased security measures will enhance transit safety. Electronic gates and closed-circuit cameras will be installed at rapid transit and new RapidBus stations. A smart-card system for rapid transit and buses, which users can reload at vending machines or on the Internet, will be implemented.

A cumulative total of 4.7 million tonnes in transportation greenhouse gases (GHG) will be reduced by 2020. The GHG savings will be about the equivalent of parking all the cars and light trucks in Metro Vancouver for a full year by getting British Columbians out of their cars and onto transit.

More information on the Transit Plan can be found online at http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/Transit_Plan.

Did you know?

The Transit Plan complements other key provincial transportation initiatives such as the Cariboo Connector, Trans-Canada Highway upgrades like the Kicking Horse Canyon, roads to support the mountain pine beetle harvest, and projects in Metro Vancouver such as the Gateway Program. This announcement is in addition to the recently announced $180-million investment establishing rapid bus service over the Gateway Program’s twinned Port Mann Bridge.

BC Liberals Breakfast in Victoria

2008-01-14T10:36:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday January 23rd, the BC Liberals will be hosting a Breakfast with the Executive Direcor fo the BC Liberal Party, Kelly Reichert. Kelly is the party’s senior strategist and will be the one leading the party into the next election!

The breakfast starts at 7:00 AM at the Marriott Hotel in Victoria (728 Humboldt Street). The Event is FREE as the BCYL is covering the costs for youth.

If you’re interested in attending this breakfast and hearing Kelly’s presentation, please e-mail info@bcyl.ca for more information.

Member Orientation Social

2008-01-14T08:16:00.000-08:00

The BC Young Liberals are hosting a “Member Orientation” Social this Thursday at 4:00 PM at the SFU Campus Pub. If you’re interested in becoming actively involved with the BC Young Liberals, this event is a chance for you to meet others who are involved, learn about how the BCYL operates and get an overview of the BC Liberal Party and anything else you might be wondering about.

If you’ve ever thought about getting more involved with the BCYL but aren’t quite sure what it’s all about or how you can contribute, this is your chance to find out.

FREE appetizers and drinks will be provided. Come join us and find out how you can be involved! Please RSVP to info@bcyl.ca if you plan on attending.

Please note, if you can’t make this event, there will be more “Member Orientation” events held in the future, at various locations. More details to come soon!

SFU BCYL Clubs Days

2008-01-08T23:53:00.000-08:00

It’s the start of another semester at SFU and that means Clubs Days are just around the corner!

Clubs Days are very important for the SFU BC Young Liberals – it’s our best chance to recruit new members and bring some fresh energy into the club.

Here are the dates/times for Clubs Days this semester:

Tuesday January 15th
SFU Burnaby Campus
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Thursday January 17th
SFU Burnaby Campus
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

If you can spare some time to help out at Clubs Days, please e-mail info@bcyl.ca to volunteer. Thank You!

"BELIEVE!" - BCYL CONVENTION 2008!

2008-01-08T23:16:00.000-08:00

We’d like to bring in the New Year by inviting you to join us at “BELIEVE!” - the 2008 BC Young Liberals Annual General Meeting and Training Convention. This convention will be held at the Harbour Towers Hotel in Victoria from March 20-23, 2008.

We’ve come a long way together over the past few years. Thanks to the support and hard work of members like you, the BC Young Liberals has grown from a loose network of volunteers to the most active youth organization in the country.

The “BELIEVE” Convention is all about taking what we’ve accomplished and using it to create something more – an election where youth really make a difference. Join us to learn how youth can make a difference in 2009 and how you can be a part of it.

The following is an idea of what delegates can expect during the weekend:

Thursday, March 20th
o Delegates arrive in Victoria
o Optional tour of the Legislature and Question Period at 1:00 PM
o Registration from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
o Opening Ceremonies at 7:00 PM, featuring a special Guest Speaker
o Welcome Reception

Friday March 21st and Saturday March 22nd
o Buffet Breakfast with Guest Speaker
o Training Workshops (more details soon)
o Lunch Break
o Training Workshops (more details soon)
o Dinner with Guest Speaker
o Penthouse Hospitality Suite

Sunday March 23rd
o Committee Meetings – your chance to take on an active role in the BCYL!
o Checkout at 11:00 AM

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at info@bcyl.ca.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the team that makes a real difference in the 2009 election!

Downloads

* Registration Form
* Sponsorship Package (for Riding Associations / MLAs)

BCYL INSIDER - January 7, 2008

2008-01-07T09:10:00.000-08:00

For all the latest pictures and news from the BC Young Liberals, check out the January 7 2008 edition of the BCYL Insider Newsletter here.

You must have Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the Newsletter. If you don't, you can download it here

Previous Events Wrap-Up

2007-12-18T18:47:00.000-08:00

     As you can see, despite a lack of updates (been terribly busy, sorry!) the BCYL has been very active over the last little while!

     Starting from the top down, last Saturday (December 15) we had our 2007 Christmas Party which had over 100 attendees (including Attourney General Wally Oppal and MLA Mary Polak). On December 1st the UVic BCYL held a social with Minister of Advanced Education Murray Coell and the SFU BCYL held a dinner social despite what was practically a snowstorm.

     On November 25th members of the BCYL joined Vancouver-Burrard MLA Lorne Mayencourt in the annual Santa Claus Parade (we also have a video you can watch here) and the day before (November 24th), the UBC BCYL held a social with him at Score in Vancouver. On November 21st BCYL members attended a BC Liberals Fundraiser with Health Minister George Abbot.

     November 17th was incredibly busy - we had a social with MLA Harry Bloy at The Old Spaghetti Factory and beforehand held our first ever Imagine 2020 Forum at the Accent Inn in Burnaby and had over 30 participants - and even before that the BCYL Executive held a meeting. On November 16th we had an event with Minister Rick Thorpe at UBC Okanagan; on November 13th BCYL members attended a South Island Breakfast with Minister Ida Chong and finally, on November 7th, BCYL members took to the bleachers to watch David Beckham and the LA Galaxy take on the Vancouver Whitecaps.

     We have no upcoming events scheduled for the rest of the month, so have a happy holiday and happy New Year! Get off to a great start by e-mailing info@bcyl.ca to find out how you can get involved in the New Year!

UVic Clubs Days and Social, Road to Victory Stop - Terrace, FREE Advance Screening!

2007-09-25T18:30:00.000-07:00

Pictures are up for the UVic BCYL Clubs Days and Kick-Off Social and the Road to Victory Tour Stop - Terrace, held between September 12th and 14th and September 21st, respectively.

Don't miss out on either of the two FREE BCYL events in the next little while - this weekend we have our Exclusive FREE BCYL Social at Oasis Cocktail Lounge in Vancouver, and next week we have a FREE Advance Screening of "Dan in Real Life" starring funnyman Steve Carell! Be sure to sign up ASAP!

Road to Victory!

2007-09-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

From the 19th to the 21st of September, the UBC BCYL was able to recruit over 100 members!

This past weekend the BCYL had two Road to Victory tour stops - Terrace on Friday and North Vancouver on Sunday, which brings our totals to seven communities visited and over 5600 flyers delivered! Photos will be added for the Terrace Road to Victory tour as well as the UVic Clubs Days and Moxies Social soon. Be sure to check out www.roadtovictory.ca to keep up-to-date with the BCYL's Road to Victory Tour!

Kwantlen University College

2007-09-20T18:28:00.000-07:00

Want to get involved with the Kwantlen University College BCYL? Contact BCYL President Chris Sandve at chris.sandve@bcliberals.com.

If you haven't yet, be sure to RSVP for the BCYL Road to Victory Tour stop - North Vancouver this Sunday (September 23) by e-mailing Chris Sandve at chris.sandve@bcliberals.com.

Past Events, Upcoming Events

2007-09-19T18:22:00.000-07:00

Pictures are up for the events over the last little while:

The UBC BCYL at UBC's Imagine Days
The Capilano College BCYL at Capilano College's Clubs Days
The UNBC BCYL at UNBC's Clubs Days
The BCYL at the most recent Road to Victory Tour stop - Coquitlam
The SFU BCYL at SFU's Clubs Days and Highland Pub Social
and the BCYL at the Surrey-Panorama Ridge BBQ.

Be sure to RSVP for the upcoming events, the BCYL Road to Victory Tour - North Van on September 23rd and our Exclusive FREE BCYL Social on September 29th, 2007.

Sunday BBQs

2007-09-12T18:21:00.000-07:00

     Be sure to attend the two free BBQ's this weekend - the Surrey-Panorama Ridge BBQ and the Pitt Meadows / Maple Ridge BBQ, both this Sunday, September 16th.

     Photos will be added for the Road to Victory Coquitlam Tour stop last Sunday and several Campus Clubs days earlier this month. Check back soon!

     Finally, don't forget! The SFU BCYL is hosting a Social at SFU's Highland Pub from 4:30 to 6:00 PM. Special guests include MLAs John Yap and John Nuraney!

Northwest College, Campus Presidents

2007-09-06T18:20:00.000-07:00

Contact information has been added for Northwest College! If you're a student there, be sure to check the page out and get in touch with your campus club president, Caleb English.

The following Campus Clubs have new presidents:

Kwantlen University College currently has no president, but your primary contact is Nathan Allen
Simon Fraser University's new Campus Club President is Katy Merrifield.
University of Victoria's new Campus Club President is Kris Zellweger.

Be sure to get in touch with your new President and be sure to stop by your campus's table at Club Days!

Insider, Road to Victory, Highland Pub Social

2007-09-05T18:19:00.000-07:00

     What a great year 2007 is turning out to be! Since January, the BCYL has held over 30 events across the province, recruited hundreds of new members, launched the Road to Victory Tour and maintained the most active and innovative online presence of any youth wing in the country.

     Since I became involved in the BC Young Liberals over five years ago, I have found endless opportunities for myself and others to become involved and make a difference.

     Throughout September, the BCYL will be recruiting at College and University campuses across the country, encouraging youth and students everywhere to make their mark and with the 2009 campaign just a year and half away, the opportunity to get involved and “make your mark” is greater than ever before.

     With that in mind, I am proud to unveil the BCYL’s new look and theme. I hope you’ll choose to “Make Your Mark” by getting involved with the largest and most active political youth organization in the country today.

     I look forward to seeing many of you this month at Colleges and Universities across the province!

Chris Sandve
President
BC Young Liberals
chris.sandve@bcliberals.com

***

     The BCYL Insider for the month of August is now avaliable for download. As usual, be sure to right click the link and select "Save as..." (varies by browser).

     Also, get ready for the first Lower Mainland Road to Victory tour stop in Coquitlam, this Sunday (September 9th) from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Check out the event page here and the Facebook Event page here

     We're holding a social on Wednesday, September 12th, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM at SFU Burnaby's Highland Pub. Special guests include MLAs John Yap, John Nuraney, and possibly Iain Black. As this event occurs just after SFU's club days, this is an excellent opportunity for new - and old - members to meet! Check out the event page here and the Facebook Event page here.

Edits, Campus Clubs Days

2007-08-28T18:17:00.000-07:00

     Sadly, the BCYL Mentorship program has been discontinued for various implementation reasons.

     On a lighter note, we've added a Videos Sidebar to the left hand side of the screen to make it easier to select the videos you want to watch and make it easier to tell which ones you've missed. We've also added an events page for the BCYL Campus Clubs Days with a list of all the campuses that will have a table at their respective clubs days. Be sure to stop by your campus BCYL table to sign up or just say hi!

     Pictures have been added to the BCYL Road to Victory Tour, Terrace and Prince Rupert event page. If you haven't seen them on www.roadtovictory.ca yet, now is as good a time as any. Also, if you missed it, the BCYL Road to Victory tour made the local paper in Prince Rupert! Check it all out on www.roadtovictory.ca.

Updates!

2007-08-27T18:15:00.000-07:00

Pictures are up for the last of this month's events - Iain Black's 2nd Annual Softball Tournament on August 26th, the BCYL ActNow Event with Minister Gordon Hogg on the 25th, and the BCYL Summer Party and the Minister Rick Thorpe Hike and BBQ, both of which took place on the 18th.

We have plenty of events planned for September, so make sure to check back regularly, and be sure to visit your campus' BCYL club table at the upcoming Clubs Days!.

Photos, Parties, Events, Hikes, and BBQs!

2007-08-14T18:13:00.000-07:00

     Pictures are up for Dave Hayer's 7th Annual BBQ. In attendance were Donna Campbell (wife of the late MP Chuck Cadman), Brenda Locke, MP Nina Grewal, Minister of Transportation Kevin Falcon, and of course, Surrey-Tynehead MLA Dave Hayer. We also have a video of Dave and Kevin's speech on the event page and in our video section, here.

     We also now have Facebook event pages for the BCYL Summer Party (Saturday Night at the Old Corral) here and the BCYL ActNOW Event with Minister Gordon Hogg here. Be sure to RSVP in advance! Also, if you don't have a ride to the Summer Party, post on the wall for the event page and BCYL President Chris Sandve may be able to arrange something. With exactly three weeks (sorry for the reminder!) until the beginning of the Fall University semester, these are two great events you won't want to miss!

     If can't attend the BCYL Summer Party and happen to live close to Bear Creek Provincial Park, be sure to attend our Minister Rick Thorpe Hike and BBQ!

     News older than August 1st, 2007, has been archived

Event Wrap-ups, Road to Victory

2007-08-12T18:12:00.000-07:00

     Sorry for the later-than-usual updates, but your humble web administrator was busy with final exams :)

     The rest of the photos from the HSBC Celebration of Light at Lorne Mayencourt's are up, as are photos from John Yap's 1st Annual Richmond-Stevenson BC Day BBQ. Also, photos from Dave Hayer's 7th Annual BBQ will be added later today, along with a video from the event.

     BCYL President Chris Sandve along with local BCYL members in Terrace and Prince George have been busy this weekend on the second leg of the BCYL Road to Victory Tour - highlights of the weekend include a Prince George Flyer Drop, a tribute dinner for former MLA Bill Belsey, and a video of BCYL Vice President Donny Van Dyk engaged in a wake-up call! Be sure to check out both the Road to Victory website and the BCYL flickr page to keep up to date!

Fireworks Photos

2007-08-02T18:11:00.000-07:00

The first batch of photos from the HSBC Celebration of Light's August 1st's show, hosted at Lorne Mayencourt's apartment, are up here.

You can now find photos from BCYL events on our brand new flickr page! Photos will now be added here and the events page! Be sure to view your favourite photos and leave comments on Flickr!

Weekend Recap and Additional Road to Victory Tour Dates Announced!

2007-07-31T18:03:00.001-07:00

     The BCYL's blitz through the Interior this past weekend was a huge success and a great kick-off to the Road to Victory Tour! Members of the BC Young Liberals visited Kamloops, Williams Lake and Quesnel, delivering flyers to residents of each community promoting the BC Liberal Party and meeting with local supporters at each stop.

     Along the way, BCYL members shared their experiences by posting messages, photos and video clips online at www.roadtovictory.ca. This new and innovative web site received over 300 hits during the weekend!

     The results were fantastic! Over 2300 flyers were dropped over 2-days and ridings were left re-energized, excited and ready to win in 2009.

     The team of BCYL members that kicked off the tour worked hard and put forward an excellent example of the power that volunteers and youth have to make a difference.

     This morning, I am thrilled to announce 4 more tour dates have been confirmed, to build upon this successful weekend:

Terrace (August 11, 2007)
Prince Rupert (August 11-12, 2007)
Coquitlam (September 9, 2007)
North Vancouver (September 23, 2007)

     I look forward to seeing you on the "Road to Victory"!

Cheers,

Chris Sandve
President, BC Young Liberals

***
     Pictures are up for the tour here, and more can be found on the Road to Victory website, www.roadtovictory.ca.

     There are also pictures up from the Celebration of Light, taken from Lorne Mayencourt's rooftop patio.

     We also have three new events coming up:

BCYL's Road to Victory Tour Launched!

2007-07-30T18:01:00.000-07:00

July 27, 2007:

     Today, the BC Young Liberals are launching the "Road to Victory Tour" with a weekend road trip through the Interior with stops in Kamloops, Williams Lake and Quesnel.

     Starting today and continuing up to the 2009 election, members of the BC Young Liberals will travel all over the province visiting communities across British Columbia to spread the BC Liberal message and spark the energy and excitement that will pave the road to victory in the next election.

     The "Road to Victory Tour" is driven by volunteer members of the BCYL who are committed to supporting the BC Liberal Party and ready to start working today to ensure a BC Liberal victory in 2009.

     The BCYL "Road to Victory" Blog, located at www.roadtovictory.ca is a way for these members to share their experiences as they participate in the tour.

     Every time the BCYL's "Road to Victory Tour" visits a part of British Columbia to drop flyers, knock on doors and meet with local party members, participants will share their experiences online by posting messages, photos and video clips. These posts will be made as the tour happens so that visitors can follow along and share in the exciting experience.

     For more information on the "Road to Victory Tour" and to stay up-to-date on the BCYL's trip through the Interior, as it happens, make sure to visit www.roadtovictory.ca often!

     I hope you will join me and the rest of the BCYL on the "Road to Victory" by visiting the "Road to Victory Tour" Blog at www.roadtovictory.ca

Chris Sandve
President, BC Young Liberals

***
     Expect pictures from last weekends tour to be added soon - be sure to check out www.roadtovictory.ca to help the BC Young Liberals pave the way to a 2009 BC Liberal victory!

Minister Olga Illich's Meet-and-Greet BBQ

2007-07-24T18:00:00.000-07:00

On July 21st, Minister Olga Illich held a Meet-and-Greet BBQ in Richmond. There was a large turnout, despite the rain, including MLA John Yap. Check out the photos here.

Minister Rick Thorpe Hike and BBQ & July BCYL Insider

2007-07-23T17:59:00.000-07:00

Join Minister of Small Business and Revenue Rick Thorpe as well as other local MLAs for a hike and BBQ at Bear Creek Provincial Park!

Check out the event page here.

Contact Zach Potruica at bcylpensok@hotmail.com to RSVP or for more information!

Plus, if you haven't received ths month's BCYL Insider, it can be downloaded here as a PDF. It is reccomended that you right click the link and select "Save Link As..." or "Save Target As..." to download it. You'll also need a free program like Adobe Acrobat Reader to read the file.

Make sure to sign up today to receive the BCYL Insider delivered right to your mailbox!

More Changes and Upcoming Events

2007-07-21T17:53:00.000-07:00

Archived news can now be accessed from underneath the BCYL Insider section at the bottom left of the page.

Two events have been added to the Events page.

The 1st Annual Richmond-Steveson BC Day BBQ, hosted by Richmond-Steveson MLA and Caucus Chair John Yap on BC Day (August 6th!), in Richmond. Everyones invited!
The 2nd Annual Softball Tournament and BBQ, hosted by Port Moody-Westwood MLA Iain Black in Coquitlam Town Centre Park on August 26th, 2007. In addition to the BBQ, there will also be games and the famous "Hats Off Invitational Softball Tournament"!

Changes and Upcoming Events

2007-07-20T17:52:00.000-07:00

Quite a few changes have been made on the website, many of them visual changes. The main one would be the video page and the removal of the Insider page. The BCYL Insiders are still avaliable at the bottom of the left side of the page.

The next big announcement the BCYL Interior Blitz on the weekend of July 27th. We will be visiting Merrit, Kamloops, Williams Lake, and Quesnel. All members of the BCYL are invited, and travel, meals, and hotel rooms will be provided at no cost by the BCYL. RSVP by contacting chris.sandve@bcliberals.com.

Photos from Beans & Jeans BBQ and Doolins Social

2007-07-13T17:50:00.000-07:00

Over ten new pictures have been added for Kevin Falcon's Beans and Jeans BBQ and over 40 have been added for the BCYL Social with Kevin Falcon and Iain Black - be sure to check them out!

Events Wrap-Up

2007-07-08T17:49:00.000-07:00

Pictures are up for last Friday's social with MLA Iain Black and Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon - more will be added soon!

Also, over 20 BCYL members made it out to Kevin Falcon's Beans and Jeans BBQ - like the Friday social, more pictures will be added soon.

While there are no solid dates set out yet, the BCYL is working on even more great events - keep an eye here or in your e-mail inbox (if you're a member - if not, sign up now!) for more information!

Playland Trip

2007-07-04T17:45:00.000-07:00

Pictures are up for last Saturday's trip to Playland.

With the weekend just around the corner, two events are coming up -
the BCYL Social with Minister Kevin Falcon and MLA Iain Black on Friday (July 6) - and Kevin Falcon's Beans and Jeans on Saturday (July 7), both of which will be a blast and a great chance to meet local MLAs.

For the social, we'll meet at a pub (on Granville) and head to a nightclub afterwards - the cover charge for both is covered by the BCYL, as well as appetizers at the pub - plus there will be no line-up for BCYL members!

Kevin Falcon's Beans and Jeans event normally costs $25, but volunteers get in for free! Plus, you don't have to spend all day working and will have an opportunity to enjoy the event itself!

RSVP for either by e-mailing chris.sandve@bcliberals.com.

Updates

2007-07-03T17:44:00.000-07:00

A few changes have been made around the webpage:

We've now linked to the official BC Liberals group on Facebook.
We've added a new section called Multimedia. You can head to the Video Clips page to check out all official BC Liberal Party and BC Young Liberal videos, or go to the BCYL Insider page to get any Insiders you might have missed. BCYL Members receive the Insider every month, so if you aren't a member yet, sign up here.

Upcoming Events!

2007-07-01T17:42:00.000-07:00

There are some new events coming up:

BCYL Social with Minister Kevin Falcon and MLA Iain Black on July 6, 2007. Appetizers will be provided by the Provincial BCYL for absolutely free, as well as the cover charge. After the social at the pub, BCYL members are invited to a nearby nightclub, where there will be no line-up and cover charge paid for by the BCYL. This is a great opportunity to network with other BCYL members, as well as a chance to interact with two great MLAs!
Kevin Falcon's Beans and Jeans event, held at Federal Senator Gerry St. Germain's ranch in the Surrey/Cloverdale area on July 7, 2007. Volunteers are still needed for this event which is great every year. Tickets are normally $25, but volunteers get in for free. Plus, even though you're volunteering you won't miss out on the great food and great entertainment provided!

To RSVP for either of these events, contact Chris Sandve at chris.sandve@bcliberals.com.

Pictures will be added for the SFU BCYL Playland Trip held on Saturday soon.

Happy Canada Day!

Lunch Reception with Premier Gordon Campbell

2007-06-27T17:34:00.000-07:00

On June 23rd, the BCYL hosted a lunch reception with Premier Gordon Campbell. Last year the event saw over 100 guests. This year over 200 people were in attendance, making this the highest turnout for any BCYL event ever. Enigma served food and drinks, free to members of the BCYL. The restaurant was packed, leaving almost no standing room, as even more proof of how many people attended the event, and the Premier spoke towards the end of the event - before and afterwards going around, shaking hands, and speaking with attendees. Pictures from the event are avaliable here.

Executive Retreat, Leader's Dinner, and Lunch Reception

2007-06-21T17:33:00.000-07:00

Several event pages have been added to the events page:

On April 6th the UNBC BCYL hosted a Dinner Social with over 30 participants,
The BCYL Executive had it's retreat last weekend in Nanaimo, planning out future events among other things,
BCYL members in Nanaimo attended a Dinner Social with former MLA Mike Hunter on the 16th,
and several BCYL members attended the Annual Leader's Dinner at Canada Place on the 19th, which is one of the biggest BC Liberal fundraisers with over 2000 guests in attendance.

Be sure to check out these great events here.

Finally, if you haven't yet signed on for the Lunch Reception with Premier Gordon Campbell this Saturday, what are you waiting for?! E-mail Chris Sandve to RSVP!

BCYL Events Video

2007-06-14T17:31:00.000-07:00

Like the video? Spread the word with this link, or e-mail comments to info@bcyl.ca.

June BCYL Insider and Organization Section

2007-06-13T17:29:00.000-07:00

If you didn't get this month's BCYL Insider, download it here. Be sure to right click the link and select "Save As" or "Save Link As" to download it to your computer! Also, make sure to sign up so you never miss another BCYL Insider!

Also, a new feature to the BCYL Homepage: Organization. Go here to learn what you can to do to help the BCYL, and how to contact the various Campus Club Presidents should the need arise!

SFU BCYL Playland Trip

2007-06-05T17:26:00.000-07:00

The SFU BCYL is hosting a trip to Playland on June 30th. Tickets will be $12 cheaper for BCYL members! Check out the events page here.

Also, if you haven't RSVPed for the Lunch Reception with the Premier, what are you waiting for? See the event page here!

Lunch Reception with Premier Gordon Campbell

2007-05-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

This June 23rd, the BCYL is hosting a free lunch reception with Premier Gordon Campbell! This is an excellent opportunity to meet other BCYL members and for you and your friends to meet with Gordon Campbell! Read more here.

Leader's Invitational Golf Tournament

2007-05-27T17:23:00.000-07:00

Great job to the BCYL who managed to send over 25 volunteers to the 5th Annual Leaders Invitational Golf Tournament, one of the BC Liberal party's biggest fundraisers of the year! Check out the photos here.

Countdown to Election 2009

2007-05-23T17:21:00.000-07:00

With just two years to go, the BC Liberals have released a video highlighting the past few years. Check it out at the official BC Liberals website here or the YouTube version here.

SFU BCYL Clubs Days

2007-05-18T17:20:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the SFU BCYL for signing up over 30 new members at the SFU Burnaby Club Days on May 16th. Go here to check out the photos.

BCYL "Kick Off the Summer" BBQ

2007-05-16T17:18:00.000-07:00

Photos are up for the May 12th "Kick Off the Summer" BBQ. Head over here to check them out!

BCYL Insider

2007-05-09T17:15:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out this month's BCYL Insider - if you didn't receive it in your e-mail, check it out here (note: right click the link and select Save As... to save it to your computer!). It is a PDF, so it may take longer to load in your browser.

1000 Members!

2007-05-01T17:13:00.000-07:00

Today, we had an online membership request come in through the BCYL.ca web site – this person became the 1,000th member of our e-mail list and of our organization! What a great milestone! This is a great accomplishment but we still need to work hard to reach our goal of 800 Active members!