AHN APR 19 2018 by Alaska Highway News

THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018 Vol. 75, No. 16

Serving Fort St. John, B.C. and Surrounding Communities

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keeping birds nested

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honouring humboldt

matt preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

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ELC students CJ Schreyer, Toni Balmas, Jordan Fuhr, and Amie Chapple dropped by the #humboldtstrong display at the Pomeroy Sport Centre before heading to class on April 12, wearing their jerseys to pay respect to the victims and families impacted by the Humboldt Broncos bus crash tragedy on April 6.

Fort St. John dog park site proposals unveiled matt preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

 phone 250-785-5631  fax 250-785-3522  email circulation@ahnfsj.ca  online alaskahighwaynews.ca  facebook AlaskaHighwayNews  twitter @AHNnewspaper

Upgrades to Toboggan Hill Park top the list of five potential sites identified for an off leash dog park in Fort St. John. Residents got a sneak peek at the sites being considered at an open house April 12. It’s the first step before detailed designs are drafted and then presented to city council for approval later matt preprost Photo this year. City staff work with community stakeholders on design concepts for a potential new dog “We’re excited to get park at Toboggan Hill Park on April 12, 2018. this done,” said Wally Ferris, the city’s general manager of community services. off leash area already large dogs. A tree buffer liminary plan. The city has exists but is too im- would be retained for Developing that area budgeted $500,000 for practical for dogs. homes along 96A Av- of the park for public dog park development The city is looking at enue, while the forest use will help the city in 2018 after com- sprucing up the fores- would be cleaned up clear out the homeless plaints from both dog ted area along 93 Street of overgrown scrub camps that often set owners about the lack and north of the skate brush, including up there, Ferris said, of space, and residents park, an area that’s un- caragana and willow. calling it crime prevenfrustrated by encoun- derutilized and a good The park is already tion through environtering off leash dogs on fit for development, serviced by water, and mental design. city trails and in parks. Ferris said. there are plans on the “Making the park The top site under The park is already books to build wash- more useable will consideration at last fenced along 93 Street, rooms at the skate make it more safe,” week’s meeting was and would include park, Ferris noted. An Ferris said. Toboggan Hill Park, multiple entrances, expanded parking lot where a small, fenced and areas for small and is identified in the preSee DOG PARK on A5

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A two-hour meeting between Canada’s prime minister and the premiers of B.C. and Alberta on Sunday failed to establish certainty on the path forward for building the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion. B.C. Premier John Horgan plans to continue with a court reference to determine whether the province has the authority to restrict the flow of diluted bitumen from Alberta; Alberta Premier Rachel Notley has introduced a new law to give her energy minister extraordinary powers to restrict oil and gas exports from her province; and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has sent his finance minister to negotiate a deal with Kinder Morgan to backstop financial risks to the company — if it decides it still wants to carry on with the $7.4-billion project. Caught in between are two Fort St. John pipeline contractors selected to build parts of the expansion through B.C., that are ready to work but waiting idle through uncertainty and delay. “The pressure is real,” said Sean Surerus, president of Surerus Pipeline. “We’ve had to change construction window a couple times already, but this one is looking more tenuous because there are a number of significant investors very concerned about where this project can go. Without capital to do the work there’s a challenge, and without regulatory certainty and a path ahead there’s a lot of waiting and worrying for a lot of people, including us.” Surerus shares a 50 per cent stake with London-based J. Murphy & Sons in the Surerus Murphy Joint Venture, selected to build 185 kilometres of pipeline in the B.C. Interior between Black Pines and Merritt. Fort St. John’s Macro Industries and France’s Spiecapag have a joint venture project selected to to build 85 kilometres of pipeline in the Coquihalla-Hope area. Combined, the two companies would be responsible for building nearly one-third of the pipeline, employing up to 700 people each over two years, Surerus said. Surerus Murphy is still negotiating its contract with Kinder Morgan, however, Surerus said he has 11 project managers employed to support ongoing permitting and planning. See PIPELINE on A9

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Local News

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News Opinion Business Court Docket Perspectives Sports Arts & Culture Classifieds

Graham Green was the recipient of this year’s Alaska Highway News scholarship award at Northern Lights College. Forty-four awards worth more than $45,000 were handed out to students at the Fort St. John campus April 11 in support of their education.

this week’s flyers M&M Meats The Source Walmart Home Hardware Rona The Brick No Frills Save-On Foods London Drugs Staples Safeway Shoppers Drug Mart Canadian Tire

Green is finishing his social sciences studies at the college this year, with an eye toward transferring to the University of British Columbia. He hopes to be a Chinese history teacher one day, a course that would fit well in a growing multicultural and international student community like Fort St. John, Green said. “Chinese history is something a lot of people aren’t aware of, especially in Canada,” Green said. matt preprost Photo

GAS WATCH

Manitoba motorcycle mayhem

KNOWBEFOREYOUGO Prevailing Prices Dawson Creek

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DANISH DEMOLITION: Our next stop is Denmark. Last week, the demolition of a 174-foot tall concrete silo turned into a disaster. The silo fell on a nearby library. Thankfully, no one was injured. The boss of the demolition company had no comment. The librarian said, “Shhhhh!”

N/A

Chetwynd

CANDYMAN: Once again, our weekly news chewing tour takes us around the world. We begin in Tokyo, where the Guinness World Records folks announced there’s a new World’s Oldest Man: 112-year-old Masazo Nonaka. And this is kind of amazing: Mr. Nonaka says he credits his longevity to eating candy every day. Plus he gets daily exercise when he has to pull his dentures out of a Mars Bar.

download asunder.” My sister met a guy online. His profile said he was an “eligible bachelor.” What he meant was he’s eligible for parole in three years.

Bob Snyder

FRUIT FACT: In a new study published last week, strawberries are the dirtiest fruit. You could get sick if you don’t wash them before you eat them. My wife always includes Kaopectate in her strawberry shortcake recipe.

Chews the news

Facebook’s failure to protect the private information of users. Some Facebook users are so unhappy they have reduced their daily Facebooking time from eight hours per day to only six hours. Watching Zuckerberg talking to U.S. Senators and Congressmen I came up with an idea: Mark should create a version of Facebook for politicians: Two-Faced Book.

TV LOL: In a new study, Canadians are the biggest TV watchers in the world at an 4 hours 20 minutes per day. No other nation watches more TV. I guess they don’t have excellent, high quality, outstanding shows like we have. Yeah, right.

IMPRESS ME: Still in the States, police https://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/bc-78_metric_e.html in Connecticut say a man robbed a bank MOVIE MEMO: In Peace Country POSTAL PROBLEM: Next, let’s make a to impress the woman he’s in love with, theatres, the latest movie from Dwayne brief stop in Italy. An Italian mailman was singer Taylor Swift. I’ve never done any- “The Rock” Johnson. It’s called Rampage Prince George 119.9 arrested after police found 800 pounds of thing that extreme, but I did once impress and it’s based on a video game. I rememundelivered mail in his home. Gee whiz, my wife by going through the 9 Items Or ber when it was the other way round. Hythe N/A so that’s why I never received a reply Less lane with 10 items. Video games were based on movies. I when I wrote to the Pope! guess times chance. Coming soon: A Home Prairie  Environment and natural resources  Weather information  Weather  Local forecasts  British Columbia GAS GASP: An expert was on TV saymovie based on a video game that was Grande 122.9 HECK’S ANGELS: We return to Canada ing Canadians should prepare for an in- based on a movie that was based on a for a story from Manitoba. Biker gangs crease in the price of gas this summer. video game that was based on a movie. Calgary 128.1 are sometimes violent and dangerous. I hear one gas station in Fort St. John is But a Manitoba biker gang is attacking already planning to replace the numbers SNEEZE TEASE: Experts are predictat: Forton St. its John Airport 1:37 PM MST Tuesday 17 April Edmonton Current Conditions businesses they don’t like by Observed giving them price sign with a picture of an arm2018 ing a very bad spring allergy season. How 125.4 t Nelson, BC - 7 Day Forecast - Environment Canada https://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/bc-83_metric_e.html bad reviews online. Oooooh! Nasty! And and a leg. sneezy will it be? Say “Bless You!” now to if you make them very, very mad, they everyone you know, it will save time later. Condition: Mostly Cloudy Temperature: -0.6°C Wind: W 24 km/h Vancouver 150.9 unfriend you on Facebook. MARRIAGE MEMO: A study shows 1 When I get allergies I am a bionic sneezPressure: 101.1 kPa Dew point: -5.7°C Wind C… -7 in 3 new Canadian marriages now start ing machine. Last year my allergies were Rising Humidity: 68% Visibility: 24 km Victoria 145.9Tendency: FB S.O.B. And speaking of Facebook, online. During the wedding the preach- so bad I could have helped out the City of the company’s boss Mark Zuckerberg was er says, “For those whom the Internet Fort St John by demolishing the old Conin Washington to answer questions about hath brought online together, let no man dill Hotel with one of my sneezes. B.C. avg 140.8 Home  Environment and natural resources  Weather information  Weather  Local forecasts  British Columbia

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THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018 A3

LOCAL NEWS

Taylor seeks approval to borrow $4.2 million MATT PREPROST editor@ahnfsj.ca

The District of Taylor is seeking public approval to borrow up to $4.2 million to kickstart development of the Parcel Z subdivision. Councillors voted Monday to move forward with an alternative approval process for a new borrowing bylaw, giving residents until June 1 to register their opposition. Those who support the borrowing do not need to register their support under this process.

PARTING GIFT

Council can move to approve with the bylaw unless 98 electors reject the proposal, forcing council to put the matter to a referendum or to cancel its plan for the borrowing. If approved, the loan would fund the servicing of 50 new single-family housing lots in Parcel Z. The district is taking on the project to entice builders to the community, which has only a few serviced residential lots left for development. Notices will appear in the Alaska Highway News this month, and in the Taylor Times.

Financial plan adopted MATT PREPROST editor@ahnfsj.ca

Taylor councillors adopted Monday the district’s five year financial plan through to 2022. Included in the adoption is approval for the district’s $13.7-million budget for 2018. The district is forecasting revenues of more than $8.9 million this year, the majority from property taxes, government grants, and the sale of services. Total operating expenses are budgeted at $6.3 million, with capital spending at $7.4 million. Councillors also gave the first three readings to this year’s tax rates. The budget calls for residential tax rates to increase 16 cents, up from $3.24 to $3.40 per $1,000 of assessed value. The average homeowner will still pay around $1,088 in taxes under the formula, after homes values dropped from an average of $336,000 to $320,000 for

MATT PREPROST PHOTO

2018. The district expects to collect roughly $30,000 extra in taxes this year from properties that bucked the assessment trend this year and will end up paying more. The district is planning to hold the line on industrial tax rates, while business tax rates are proposed to rise 32 cents, from $5.22 to $5.55, also due to assessment declines. The district has budgeted $1.5 million for golf course operations, $2.2 million for community services and parks and recreation, and $540,182 for protective services. Half of the district’s capital budget is earmarked for borrowing for the Parcel Z subdivision. Other major capital projects this year include $897,000 for sewer and road work to Pine Avenue West, $600,000 toward the purchase of a new fire truck, and $325,000 for a standby generator for the water plant.

District of Taylor councillors present Barb Bell with a framed Darcy Shawcheck photograph print of the Taylor Bridge and Peace River at their April 16 meeting. The image was a fitting gift to Bell, in appreciation for her 10 years of service taking care of Peace Island Park. Though Bell retired from her post, she called her time as caretaker one of the most memorable parts of her life. “I’ll be around,” she told council. “You’ll see lots of me.” DOG PARK FROM A1

Charlie Broome of the Crate Escape Dog Park Society said Toboggan Hill is a central and convenient location, with plenty of space for dog owners. “I would still like to see it in a more natural state,” Broome said. “I don’t want to eliminate it into a wide open field.” The society took part in a workshop with city staff and consultants to map out potential features of the park, including water sources, clusters of trees, and, of course, making the park interesting for dogs. There’s plenty of opportunity to make the dog park fun for dogs and to make it relatively inexpensive, Lani Belcher said. Cement pipes can be used for tunnels, tires can be laid down for obstacles, and bridges and ramps can be made on the cheap, she said.

“Their mind has to be busy,” Belcher said. “They need to exercise their minds, not just their feet.” The city has also identified the Northwest Bypass Trail as an area that could be piloted as a designated off leash area. The idea is based off feedback the city has received, Ferris said. “People don’t necessarily want a fenced-in area, they want the areas they’re using now,” Ferris said. It’s a relatively inexpensive pilot project that could be rolled out in tandem with construction of a more formal park, if approved. Public education about dog owner etiquette would be the focus of the project, to ensure respectful and responsible use of shared space between dog

owners, pedestrians, cyclists, and others. The city would survey users and nearby homeowners over a trial period to get feedback on whether the project is working or not, and adapt accordingly, Ferris said. Other sites proposed include Kin Park, in the medium-term. However, any consideration of a dog park here would be part of a master planning process for Kin Park redevelopment that won’t start until 2019 at the earliest; a site near the RV sani-dump station off the Alaska Highway at 86 Street, proposed in the near term to address the needs of tourists and motorists; and a site near the motocross tracks, identified in the long-term, as industrial development south of the Alaska Highway builds out.

Come talk to Director Brad Sperling, ask questions, share ideas for projects in the community and chat about community issues important to you.

Roundtable meetings and times: April 18 | 7–9pm | Baldonnel School April 25 | 7–9pm | Charlie Lake Community Hall

For More Information:

Peace River Regional

Community Services 250-784-3200

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Local News

Industry looks to limit impact on migratory birds routes each year since 1966. It sees researchers or volunteers stop at selected points to look and listen for Migratory bird counts in Canada’s three minutes, then record the numboreal forests continue to drop, but ber of birds of each species. industry is taking on efforts to limit On the Tupper route, the number their impact on the declines being of tree swallows declined from an avseen in Northeast B.C. erage of five per year between 1994 Around 40 residents turned out to and 1999, to only 1.8 between 2012 the to the Lido Theatre April 12 for and 2017. Throughout Canada, the a presentation by Mark Phinney, a number of tree swallows recorded on Dawson Creek forester and wildlife an average route dropped steadily biologist, and environmental advisor from 11.5 in 1970 to five in 2015. at Encana. “There are many, many things “A lot of people say that birds are birds have to contend with now that everywhere, there are so many birds they didn’t have to 100 years ago”, here, if you look out into your back- Phinney said, listing deforestation, yard,” Phinney said. “But 20 years pesticides, climate change, agriculago there were more, and 40 years ture, wind farms, and night-time ago there were even more than that. light pollution that can cause confuYou have to look at the data to get a sion for birds. real sense of the decline.” In the Peace, industry is the The Peace River region winds primary threat to the boreal forest through the south edge of the boreal migrating birds depend on, Phinney forest, an area unusual for its di- said. Though cutlines regenerate reversity of migrating bird species, latively quickly, “oil and gas develPhinney said. About 200 species nest opment will not be put back to its here, including Brewer’s blackbirds, natural state for decades,” he said. which will be back in the Peace in a Phinney’s talk focused on how incouple weeks, great grey owls, Amer- dustry avoids contravening the Miican three-toed woodpeckers, and gratory Birds Convention Act, where alder flycatchers. Several of the spe- fines can run between $100,000 and cies hosted by the south boreal are $12 million for companies that disnot found elsewhere in B.C. turb or destroy migratory bird nests. Phinney showed slide after slide Still, even fear of bad headlines is of graphs illustrating declining bird more of a deterrent, Phinney said. populations. Declines along his Federal guidelines focus on reduTupper Breeding Bird Survey route, cing the risk of “incidental take,” the which follows Highway 52, Highway disturbance or destruction of mi2, and rail lines southwest of Dawson gratory birds, nests and eggs during Creek, were echoed throughout development and operations. IndiCanada. vidual companies are left to decide The Breeding Bird Survey has been exactly how to do this, Phinney said. done Canada-wide along the same For its part, Encana takes a stepwise approach, and uses habitat models for 15 selected species. The company has mapped where birds are likely to nest — for example, the Fir Pellets rusty blackbird nests We do ICBC in Stock in boggy areas. Encana Claims at shop avoids clearing from May 1 to July 31, he said, and, if that’s not possible, the 10996 Clairmont Frontage, Alaska Hwy avoids the speFort St. John • 250.785.3433 company cific nesting or reproductamy von stackelberg

Alaska Highway News

North Peace Cultural Centre - Executive Director Are you passionate about providing a diverse range of arts and cultural activities and experiences to the community? The North Peace Cultural Society is looking for an enthusiastic, motivated, strategic professional who shares the same passion, drive and determination as our already exceptional team to join us as Executive Director. The Position: As the Executive Director you would be responsible for the overall leadership and management of the operations of the North Peace Cultural Center in accordance with the direction set by the Board of Directors of the North Peace Cultural Society. You would provide advice to the Board of Directors and implement innovative approaches to long term planning and sustainable and effective service delivery. This is a one-year term position expected to end April 30, 2019. If you are a relationship builder, have extensive experience in the not for profit realm, possess a degree in a related field, are interested in this challenging and rewarding career opportunity and think you may want to join OUR team and community and make it YOUR team and community, please submit your resume in confidence via email to Karen.masonbennett@gmail.com We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted. The position will remain open until filled.

REQUEST FOR COMMENT

Proposed New Conservancy The public is invited to provide comment on the proposed Tsaa Nuna conservancy. It is about  km northwest of Fort St. John and  km northeast of the Butler Ridge Provincial Park. The proposed conservancy covers , hectares along the southern shore of the Halfway River. The conservancy aims to protect the high cultural and natural values associated with the area. An open house will be held on Wednesday, April , from  p.m. –  p.m. in Room  at Northern Lights College in Fort St. John. For further information, please visit engage.gov.bc.ca/ govtogetherbc/consultation/tsaa-nuna/ Written comments can be mailed or emailed until May 25, 2018 to: Attention: Lisa Brock Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development 100-10003 110th Avenue Fort St. John, B.C. V1J 6M7 Email: lisa.brock@gov.bc.ca

GLASS HOUSE AUTO GLASS

ive season of species likely to nest in the area. If it can’t avoid those times, it would go out and look for nests, Phinney said. He compared Encana’s measures to a BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) management tool, which delays logging until nesting is complete, avoids blocks with trees likely to have nests, and has procedures for active nest encounters. He noted pros and cons to both strategies, but was critical of the COFI approach, saying there is much variation in how companies apply it. “Companies say they’ve applied the management tool … on the ground, the differences may be stark,” he said. Despite these differences, Phinney said he’s pleased to see more industry paying attention. “Even if they’re going about it in their own separate manner, they’re going in the right direction,” he said. Phinney’s information-packed presentation was funded by the Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program, which partners with BC Hydro, the province, First Nations, and the public, with a mandate to conserve and enhance fish and wildlife impacted by existing BC Hydro dams. Namha Khadha, a wildlife enthusiast who said she likes all animals, asked what the public can do to help. Phinney encouraged the public to report infractions to company managers or BC Fish and Wildlife. He pointed a finger at road sweeping and construction that disturb nesting. He also encouraged participating in backyard bird counts or using ebird.ca to record sightings. After the talk, FWCP board member Ross Peck emphasized the need for public awareness. “It’s heartening to see a good turnout,” he said. The program funds public education, research and conservation programs. Peck encouraged nonprofits and neighbourhood groups to apply for community engagement grants, which provides up to $1,000 for projects that support conservation work.

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Administrative Professionals Day Wednesday, April 25 is Administrative Professionals Day.

On this occasion we pay tribute to these essential workers in today’s business world. Administrative assistants have evolved with

the times, secretaries, administrative assistants, personal assistants, and associates work in a constantly evolving profession. These days, management skills are in demand on top of other, more conventional tasks, as administrative assistants no longer just juggle ﬁle folders; nowadays, they are taking charge of them! Admin assistants have an increasingly important role to play-they manage, they coordinate, and they stay on top of all the details. Some tasks require great skill, such as strategic information research, maintaining databases, supervising administrative support staff, and formatting and correcting documents. In addition, assistants must have in-

depth knowledge of all the new technologies and workplace tools, including the Internet, software, smart devices, and social network management. It goes without saying that resourcefulness is mandatory.

APRIL 25, 2018

Admin assistants have to be very versatile these days, as their tasks vary from one day to the next and from one job to the next. To fulﬁl all these requirements, they must have many of the following aptitudes and qualities: organizational skills, initiative, meticulousness, mastery of the language, ability to adapt, and comfort with computers and information systems. On Administrative Professionals Day, why not highlight the professionalism of administrative support staff by showing your appreciation in some concrete way. For more information about Administrative Professionals Week, consult the website of the International Association of Administrative Professionals at www.iaap-centralcanada.org

Today’s administrative assistants play a big role in organizations; they manage, they coordinate, and they control all the details.

FSJ BOTTLE DROP (1990) LTD.

Here’s to you for all you do!

Celebrating Admin Professionals Day FSJ

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Administrative Professional Day

9503 79 Ave. • 250-787-7283

April 25 April 25

No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of another. Thank you.

Dan Davies, MLA Peace River North

Phone (250)263-0101 • Fax: (250)263-0104 Toll Free: 1-877-332-0101 Dan.Davies.mla@leg.bc.ca 10104 - 100 Street , Fort St John, BC V1J 3 Y7

Thank you for the tremendous job you do! 8808 96a St #4 Fort St. John Unit 103 - 11404 8th Street Dawson Creek

9123-100 St., Fort St. John 250-261-5477

Thank you to all the Administrative Professionals for all the hard work you do!

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A6 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018

Opinion

Published every Thursday at 9916 - 98th Street, Fort St. John, BC V1J 3T8 by Glacier Media Tel: 250-785-5631 Fax: 250-785-3522 Online at alaskahighwaynews.ca

regional manager

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managing editor

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sales manager

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John Horgan and the Kinder Morgan vise

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Brenda Piper

bpiper@ahnfsj.ca

circulation manager

Lynn Novack

circulation@ahnfsj.ca

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t’s been a very interesting week in the Kinder Morgan pipeline debate, with B.C. Premier John Horgan stuck in a vise on the issue and the handle keeps turning. With the announcement on Sunday of last week, most certainly a strategic move timing wise, Kinder Morgan announced that it has suspended all nonessential spending on the pipeline expansion and gave the deadline of May 31 for the province to cease opposition or they will walk away from the project. Remember, any announcements that comes out on a Sunday is designed to start the week off with a bang. And it most certainly did. Give that vise handle a turn. In yet another development, during question period in the legislature, we learned the NDP was advised that “stopping the project was beyond the jurisdiction of B.C.,” as confirmed by Environment Minister George Heyman,

Jeff Richert COMMUNITY VIEWS

during his party’s transition to government. That’s an interesting development causing the vise handle taking yet another turn on Mr. Horgan. It must be getting tough to breath by now. On the other side of the rock pile, Alberta Premier Rachel Notley, who is showing quite the acumen for political strategy of which Mr. Horgan appears not to possess on this issue, decided to take more aggressive measures by threatening to restrict Alberta oil being transported into BC. If you ask me, that is a card she will keep in her back pocket. That’s the checkmate. In addition to restricting oil transport, Notley also

announced that Alberta was considering a number of financial options regarding taking an equity stake in the project. Federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced the federal government was willing to consider those options as well. Is there any wiggle room left in that vise Premier Horgan? And yet again, on yet another Sunday, Notley and Horgan met with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa for a nice sit down the issue. Was there any traction, movement, or change of course? No. To summarize, we have a provincial government in power based on a shaky alliance that takes an oppositional stance on a pipeline in which it appears they have no legal power to stop. Not only do they not back off their stance, they proceed to corner themselves into an untenable situation by galvanizing the opposition which is composed of the proponent, the province of

Alberta and the federal government. This is looking like a losing scenario no matter which way you cut it. Given the legal argument that the province cannot override federal jurisdiction on this matter, has all of John Horgan’s huffing and puffing been quite simply one giant waste of time and money? It sure appears so. He did fly to Ottawa on the weekend to say nothing different than he has before. Video conferencing could of worked nicely there, John. Outmaneuvered, outstrategized, outgunned, backed into a corner and stuck in a vise. Moving forward, is this what British Columbians can expect from a government that increasingly appears to be compromised by irrational activism? Not a good omen for the future, I’m afraid. Jeff Richert lives in Taylor.

Nobody puts Notley in the corner

egardless of your political leanings, aren’t you a wee bit impressed with Premier Rachel Notley? The pall of disbelief that settled over Alberta in 2015 when Rachel became premier, her NDP party unseating the entrenched Conservative Party, was palpable. No one knew what to think. What changes would she make? What kind of leader would she become? Three years later, as the citizens of British Columbia and Alberta sit back and watch Mommy and Daddy fight over the Trans Mountain pipeline project, I am silently rooting for Mommy out of principle. That girl has game. She didn’t hesitate when she cut off our wine imports, and she remains wide-eyed and unblinking as she threatens to restrict shipments of oil and gas from Alberta. She reminds me of Ralph Klein, but not in the obvious ways.

Judy Kucharuk THE DESK OF THE GREEN-EYED GIRL

Klein was controversial, outspoken and probably would have gotten along well with Donald Trump. He was like a bull in a china shop – you never knew what his verbal elbows would take out when he was out in public. Klein was rough around the edges: a renegade, a political cowboy and his commitment to Alberta was unwavering. Klein was a pragmatist and so is Notley. Premier Horgan is an idealist. One would have thought that neighbouring provinces sharing the same political affiliation would become fast friends: The Sonny and Cher of Western Canada, singing, “I got you, Babe.” Nothing

HaveYOUR

could be further from reality. It has been interesting to watch, albeit not comforting knowing what is at stake as they play chicken. They are two very different people. Notley grew up in a community not far from where I grew up. We would have attended the same track and field competitions, and most likely played volleyball against one another. I fondly remember her late father, Grant Notley. She didn’t grow up in a big city, nor did she grow up with great privilege. She is a Peace Country girl with Peace Country gumption and no one is going to push her into a corner. Who would have thought? Right or wrong, she has shown that she is a person of strength, conviction and she is prepared to go the distance. Impressive. Judy Kucharuk is a lover of sarcasm, witty people and footnotes. Follow her @judylaine

Do you have something to say or a story to share? The Alaska Highway News wants to hear from you. Email us at editor@ahnfsj.ca with “Have Your Say” in the subject line. Letters should be kept under 300 words, and must be accompanied by your full name, city, and a daytime phone number (for verification purposes only). We reserve the right to edit letters for length, taste, accuracy and libel. Letters will be published each Thursday.

THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018 A7

Mexico Building Project SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 60

Participants: Left to Right Lance Hoskyn (parent volunteer), Liam Mavin, Ben Jackson, Taylor Rowe, Josh Stones, Richard Koop

In early March 2018 a team of four senior high school students and two adults travelled to Baja, California, Mexico to build a home for a needy family. The team was made up of carpentry students from both North Peace Senior Secondary and Hudson’s Hope Elementary Secondary, along with supervisor Richard Koop, and Lance Hoskyn, a parent volunteer. A simple frame house was built in a small town four hours south of San Diego, California for a couple who had been living in a 10’ X 12’ shack made up of pallets, cardboard and plastic. The young couple had just lost their two year old son to leukemia just one month before the team arrived and were struggling to make a living on the husband’s meager wage as a mechanic’s assistant. The team started building the 20’ x 22’ wood frame house on Monday, March 5 and by that Thursday afternoon the home was ﬁnished, with two bedrooms and a kitchen/ living room area. The couple were at a loss for words and tears ﬂowed as they were shown their new home, something they could have only dreamt about a few days before. After building the home, students expressed how good it felt to give of their time, resources and abilities to help others in need. Spending time in a culture very different than their own was a great experience for all the team members and a new appreciation was gained for the opportunities and privileges of living in a prosperous, well-developed part of the world. Funding for the house building materials was provided by generous contributions from various businesses and organizations in the Fort St. John and Hudson’s Hope areas, and School District 60 would like to thank them for their support of this very worthwhile project. The Mexico building project was a great success and the students learned much from their experiences on the trip. And, most importantly, a very needy family will have a well built, secure place to call their home.

A BIG THANK YOU GOES OUT TO THE FOLLOWING CONTRIBUTORS

Mexico Building Project 2018 • School District No. 60 Horseshoe Creek Outﬁtters Alpine Glass Peace River Building Products Haab Homes Ltd. Hudson’s Hope Lion’s Club Braun’s Flooring Beryl Prairie Fire Hall Colteran Developments Inc. Home Hardware

A8 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018

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THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018 A9

business

homemade tastes

Rotarians at Work

Local Rotarians assembling Mitzpah Transition House “Starter Kits” for women and children as they begin a new chapter in life

matt preprost photo

Nicole Sztabkowski preps a recent batch of her homemade dog treats. Sztabkowski launched her business, K-9 Crunchies, last September after researching how the mass produced treats found on grocery store shelves are made. “People want more natural ingredients, things they can trust,” Sztabkowski says, before adding: “I love when I’m rolling out my mix. You can see the cheese, you can see the real ingredients.” Read more at alaskahighwaynews.ca

New mall being built in Charlie Lake matt preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

A bundle of mail, a slice of pizza, a sweat at the gym, a hair cut — the comforts of community will soon be just a walk away in Charlie Lake. Northern Legendary Construction is building a new, five-unit retail plaza in the community, with plans to open this fall. “I live in Charlie Lake and, along with a lot of other people, we just don’t have a building where you can go workout, get a piece of pizza, or get a haircut,” said Eric Bell, Northern Legendary founder and general manager. “My vision for our community is to be able to have those kind of services for the 4,000 to 5,000 people in this neck of the woods.” Northern Legendary is undertaking the development, called Legendary Plaza, on property it owns on Nielson Avenue just off the Alaska Highway. It’s been a project years in the making but set back by environmental contamination that needed to be cleaned up, Bell said. A former Imperial Oil gas sta-

tion burned down there sometime in the 1960s, and was left abandoned until a butcher shop was put in its place, he said. The contamination has been removed for a clean bill of health, Bell said. The $2 million, 14,000 square foot development has financing support from the Business Development Bank of Canada. “We expect to be, weather permitting, pouring concrete in the next several weeks for footings,” Bell said. The company is in “hot pursuit” to land Canada Post as an anchor tenant, Bell said, after the post office moved from the Charlie Lake store into a temporary set of trailers outside the community hall last June. Nothing has been finalized, according to Bell and post office officials. Bell also wants bring in a pizza place, a barbershop, and a gym. “Those are the kinds of things our community needs and would support,” he said. There’s retailer interest in the plaza already, Bell said, and announcements are expected as construction progresses and leases finalized. The plan is to have the building movein ready for tenants in July, with a grand opening in the fall, he said.

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pipeline from a1

Surerus had planned to be in Merritt and Kamloops already and hiring for construction work that was supposed to start this summer. That’s been pushed to fall, though Surerus said that’s now in doubt. Trans Mountain is an opportunity to be the “backbone” of the company’s growth, Surerus said, making up half its business during the construction season. “This is the biggest project we’ll likely ever have,” Surerus said. “We’re trying to build a business, we’re trying to grow, and we’re trying to add great people. These type of impediments really hurt us as well. It trickles right through.” On April 8, Kinder Morgan announced it was suspending all but essential work on the expansion, and has given the B.C. and federal governments until May 31 to provide “clarity” on whether the company can proceed. Otherwise, the company said it will pull the plug on the project. Kinder Morgan has spent an estimated $1.1 billion so far, and would spend between $300 million and $400 million per month at peak construction. The company has estimated that 9,000 workers would be employed on the B.C. section of the pipeline and terminals over a four-year period. Trudeau has said his government will look at its its legislative options to assert its authority over the pipeline expansion, and vowed the expansion will be built in the national interest. In an emergency debate in the House of Commons Monday night, Prince GeorgePeace River-Northern Rockies MP Bob

Zimmer criticized Trudeau’s rhetoric and inability to put his words into action. “We have heard a lot of rhetoric about this being done, but I lack the confidence, as do many other Canadians,” Zimmer said. “We have seen three leaders who were previously opposed to oil and natural resource development in our country meet and supposedly solve the problem. We do not have a lot of confidence in the three anti-resource development people who have met and had a conversation. I want to see proof.” The Conference Board of Canada estimates each Aframax tanker that would come to the Westridge Marine Terminal in Burnaby would result in $366,000 in spending in the Port of Vancouver. It estimates the annual spending for port activities to be $127 million from the increased tanker traffic alone. B.C. stands to lose an estimated $5.7 billion in tax revenue over 20 years, according to the Conference Board, while B.C. municipalities would lose close to $1 billion. The total loss to Canada in tax and royalty revenue is calculated at $46.7 billion over 20 years. “There are lots of livelihoods that have banked on this work,” Surerus said, noting construction would benefit the trucking industry, camp operators, and others support businesses throughout the province. “There’s an incredible amount of business impacted, not just a business like us.” —with files from Business in Vancouver

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A10 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018

BUSINESS

Job fairs, unemployment rates, oh my!

TAKING SHAPE

MATT PREPROST PHOTO

The Rotary Club of Fort St. John presented the city with $20,000 to put toward the building of the spray park at its meeting today. Construction of the park is substantially complete, with commissioning and landscaping work happening as soon as the weather allows. The city hopes for a grand opening ceremony in mid to late June. This is the club’s fourth payment toward the park, or $80,000 of its $100,000 commitment. Pictured: Rotarians Marva Kosick and Irina Rugina with acting mayor Lilia Hansen, Coun. Larry Evans, and community services general manager Wally Ferris.

Last year, 59 percent of B.C. workers who died on the job worked in a high-risk industry. Let’s make our workplaces healthy and safe.

Saturday, April 28

nce again, Northeast B.C. is on the hunt for workers. Our March unemployment rate reported to be up from last months 4.9% to 5.7%, likely season related. The total regional employment figure is 38,200, down significantly from several years ago. The regional employment figure is down from December’s total of 39,300. As I dig a little bit deeper into past statistics I see March 2017 unemployment rates at 6.5% against March 2018 at 5.7%. An interesting stat to confirm would be the change in regional employment year over year. It would appear that regional employment has declined. At a high point, regional employment was averaged at 40,100 people working in the area in 2015 compared with a three-month average in 2018 to 38,000. According to my calculation, a decline of work force averaged at 2,100 employees shows over 5.2% decline in work force. Where did the jobs go? We have lost 5.2% of our work force. Using a rough average income for the region from 2015 at $104,012, this translates into a wage loss of $218,425,200. Yes, over $218 million dollars in lost wages and tax revenue in the region. We have a small workforce – 2,100 lost jobs has a very big impact on our communities and our economic development. Lost jobs impact the overall stability of any community. Further statistical support — Vacancy rates are a supporting measure confirming the overall vitality of the community. Fort St. John continues to experience high vacancy rates as a result of overdevelopment and low absorption over the past several years. CMHC reports vacancy rates in Fort St. John to be sitting just below 20%. This is a 10% improvement from the 2016 vacancy rate, which was slightly over 30%. The community is once again slowly advancing from the trough of a down turn. MLS sales volumes and values have declined over the past three years. Job fairs are back in search of the lost labour force to fill jobs in the region.

Edwina Nearhood LIFE AT GROUND ZERO

There is affordable housing inventory available for employees. Demand for skilled labour continues. Demand for professionals continues. What is missing? The workers have relocated. The life cycle of a resource-based community, with numerous opposing forces, continues to turn. For the lifers of the community, we have seen it all before. For those new to the area, they consider throwing in the towel and going back to where they came from. The long-timers try to tell them to wait it out. Things will improve. This time, will the improvement be a new normal? Jet traffic — I had the pleasure of travelling home mid-week a few weeks ago and was surprised to find myself boarding a jet. The jet was filled with incoming workers. Most of these workers lived elsewhere in B.C. or Canada. What is the economic impact of transient work force on the community? Fort St. John airline traffic confirms recovery from 2016 to 2017 by 4.9% with passenger traffic close to the 2014 levels at 252,898 passengers. Final Word — Unstable work force, transient work force, and companies that cater to employees flying in and flying out do not create stable communities. Do we want stability or high wages? Do we want healthy communities? Responsible corporate citizens? Do we want to sell our future for a good wage today? How many operational jobs will be remaining in the community when the last pipeline is built? What is our next strategy for long-term economic development for our petroleum resourced based community? Edwina Nearhood is a life-long resident of Fort St. John, with 30 years experience in the appraisal industry.

CITY BEAT

For more information about ceremonies in your area, visit dayofmourning.bc.ca

Updates from April 9, 2018 Council Meetings LONG SERVICE AWARD Council presented a Long Service Award to Maija Schoenle, Customer Service Representative at the North Peace Leisure Pool and Pomeroy Sports Centre, in recognition of her 5 years of service as an employee of the City of Fort St. John.

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Council received a presentation from STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service), an air ambulance service operating out of Grande Prairie, Alberta, serving northern residents and responding to diverse situations using leading edge technology. A breakdown of STARS missions in the Peace River Regional District from 2007 to 2017 was provided. In that time frame, STARS provided 22 inter-facility missions in Fort St. John and 13 near Fort St. John. Additional missions ﬂown from STARS Grande Prairie base include Fort Nelson, McBride, Quesnel and Valemount. In Southeastern BC, there were a total of 686 missions out of the STARS Calgary base in various communities between 2007 and 2017. STARS works with BC Emergency Health Services, Northern Health and the Peace River Regional District to build positive change and to enhance the level of care available. In 2016, there were a total of 6 missions in the Peace River Regional District and 12 in 2017. STARS works to ensure safety and quality of life and to protect and preserve for the future.

TENDER AWARD Council awarded the tender for the 2018 Sewer Upgrades to the low bidder, Ram Excavating Ltd. from Quesnel, BC, for the unit rates in their tender submission dated March 25, 2018, with the total tendered price being $556,898.94. A sanitary sewer will be installed in the lane west of 78A Street between 94th Avenue and 91st Avenue. This additional capacity will help to mitigate any potential sanitary sewer capacity issues in this area. The storm sewer will be installed in the lane east of 90th Street from mid-block between 89th and 87th Avenues and west on 87th Avenue to 90th Street. Storm water tends to pool in this area, some of which enters into the sanitary sewers system. This installation will beneﬁt both the storm and sanitary sewer systems. The projects are estimated to be completed within the budgeted amount. Meetings will be held with aﬀected residents prior to the commencement of construction.

GRANDE PRAIRIE REGIONAL COLLEGE CONVOCATION

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Council authorized the Mayor and three Council members to attend the convocation ceremonies at the Grande Prairie Regional College on May 5, 2018. The one-day trip will be a good opportunity for Mayor and Council to network with the students regarding recruitment to Fort St. John.

RALLY 4 TRANS MOUNTAIN IN EDMONTON, ALBERTA

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Under New Business, Council received an invitation for the Acting Mayor to attend and speak brieﬂy at a Rally 4 Trans Mountain scheduled for April 12, 2018 in Edmonton, Alberta. The rally is being put on by the Rally 4 Resources Group. Due to the travel costs involved, Council chose not to attend the rally but agreed to send a letter of support regarding the Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Pipeline project to the rally organizers.

UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS A Committee of the Whole meeting is tentatively scheduled for Monday April 23, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. The Regular Council Meeting will follow at 3:00 p.m. The meetings will be held in the City Hall Council Chambers and the public is welcome to attend.

www.fortstjohn.ca

THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018 A11

LOCAL NEWS

PEACE REGION

COURT DOCKET A summary of sentences and fines handed out in Peace Region courts for the week ending April 13, 2018. Fort St John Law Courts • Justus Leigh Teasdale (born 1995) was sentenced to 21 days in jail, given 15 months of probation, handed

a 10-year mandatory firearms ban, and assessed a $100 victim surcharge for assault causing bodily harm. Teasdale was sentenced to another 45 days in jail, and assessed a $300 in victim surcharge for three counts of breach of undertaking. • Jessie William Freeman (born 1992) was given a oneyear probation order, handed a one-year criminal driving ban, and assessed a $100 victim surcharge each for a count

of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and flight from a peace officer. • Ayla Sean-Tay Falkenberg (born 1997) was handed a one-year probation order with a conditional discharge, and assessed a $100 victim surcharge for assault. • Robert James Bakstad (born 1963) was fined $750 and assessed a $112.50 victim surcharge for driving with a suspended licence. • Patrik John Garas (born

Crime, police calls up in Taylor in 2017 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

MATT PREPROST editor@ahnfsj.ca

The District of Taylor recorded an increase in property crimes and assaults in 2017 as police responded to a 14 per cent increase in calls. Fort St. John RCMP saw 440 calls for service from the district in 2017, up from 387 in 2016, according to a year-end report. Of those, 127 calls, or roughly onethird, were for Criminal Code offences. That’s up from 92 offences in 2016. The district saw overall property crimes rise to 63 in 2017, up from 38 in 2016, an increase of 66 per cent. Overall crimes against persons remained relatively the same, down from 42 to 40 year-over-year. Other criminal code offences rose 100 per cent, from 12 to 24 offences year-over-year. STATS AT A GLANCE (2016 statistics) • •

12-month probation order with a suspended sentence, and assessed a $100 victim surcharge for theft $5000 or under. Mooney was also given 12 months of probation with a suspended sentence, and assessed a $100 victim surcharge for breaching probation. • Rebecca Ann Egnell (born 1989) was assessed a $100 victim surcharge for breach of undertaking.

Dawson Creek Law Courts • Brian Alexander Mooney (born 1987) was handed a

— Tom Summer

5 Year Anniversary th

Aggravated assault: 5 (3) Common assault: 21 (11) Utter threats: 3 (7) Arson: 2 (0) B&E Business: 2 (0) B&E Residence: 4 (3) Vehicle thefts: 10 (3) Theft from vehicle: 11 (8) Theft: 9 (3) Cocaine possession: 1 (0) Cannabis possession: 1 (3) MVA fatal: 2 (0) MVA injured: 7 (6) MVA damage only: 18 (17) Public disturbances: 9 (6) False alarms: 25 (24)

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Overall, the Fort St. John RCMP detachment responded to 13,217 calls for service in 2017. That’s down two per cent from 13,547 calls in 2016.

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Detachment commander Insp. Mike Kurvers presented his year-end report at council’s protection committee meeting Monday.

Robbery: 1 (0) Sex offences: 3 (3)

1993) was handed a one-year probation order with a conditional discharge, and assessed a $100 victim surcharge for breach of undertaking. • Katrina Marie Leuze (born 1999) was handed six months of probation and assessed a $100 victim surcharge for breaching probation.

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NORTHEAST BC REALTY

RON RODGERS

Ltd.

Phone 250 785 4115

Specializing in Commercial Real Estate

TURNKEY OPERATIONS BUSINESS, LAND & BUILDING TURNKEY OPERATIONS

OWNER / MANAGING BROKER Email: ron@northeastbc.com

NEBC is located at NEBCRealty.com 10220 101 Ave. Fort St John BC V1J 2B5

Specializing in Commercial Real Estate BCNCC MLS® 2011 thru 2017 TOP COMMERCIAL Realtor TOP DOLLAR and/or MOST NUMBER OF UNITS SOLD for BCNREB MLS®

New Frontier Bar & Grill in Fort St John

BUILDING: 7500sf buildings with seasonal patio, commercial kitchen (includes all appliances and equipment), interior design with country design including dance floor, DJ booth, 2 open bars, stage for live music, lounge seating LAND: 0.66 Acres Lot on 100 Ave with paved parking & alley access BUSINESS: Includes business name and all social and promotional materials, all kitchen and bar equipment, office and club furnishings, most décor, AND LIQUOR LICENSE (subject to BC Liquor transfer approval), club shuttle service vehicle, 1600sf storage shop and additional C-Can storage along rear alley. Business is currently open 2 nights a week with DJ and occasional live entertainment. Potential to extend operating hours and expand commercial kitchen use to include private parties and happy hour specials. Excellent Income Producing Opportunity!

LOOKING FOR A NEW PROFESSIONAL CAREER - THEN CHECK OUT THIS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY WHERE YOU OWN IT ALL!

Asking $2.2 Million

MLS® C8013087 Please DO NOT Discuss With Staff or drop in during business hours. Call Ron for Details and Financial information. Two Year non-disclosure/confidentiality agreement required prior to provision of detailed information.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

Industrial Shop

CHERRY LANE ESTATES Taylor BC

61+ Acre Subdivision All the work is done! 12 Lots Range from 4.57 to 6.7 acres

Hydro - Telephone - PNG to each lot Reports available including environmental and survey

Located at 8362 265 Road (100 Street south of Alaska Highway)

FOR SALE LAND & BUILDING 9407 100 Ave Fort St John, BC

Main Building; 6240sf shop, 1320sf staff – storage, 1080sf main office, 1080sf additional mezzanine space above office Services; Water – cistern, Sewer – septic, mixed hydro and natural gas heating

132’ x 155’ lot 7,320+/-sf building This property was designed and built in the 1970’s for the fire hall. The two story portion was designed for offices on the main floor and living quarters on the second floor. The 3540sf shop consists of four drive thru bays. The City is willing to consider a variety of end uses for the property with emphasis on retail and commercial development such as food and beverage and personal services. A mixed development that includes a combination of commercial and residential would also be considered. The site itself will play a role in the future development of the area and all interested parties should become familiar with the City's master plans prior to making an offer. Asking $758,000 MLS® C8018083

Asking $1.92 Million Note to Buyer’s: this subdivision is within the District of Taylor jurisdiction who are responsible for road maintenance and signage.

Also For Lease Asking $18.00sf (approximately $14,580/month) plus triple net and applicable taxes MLS® C8017898-99

Asking $1.69 Million Exclusive

For Sale COMMERCIAL LAND

0.706 Acres Zoned Service Commercial Next to Fort St John WalMart! Take advantage of this high traffic retail center area for your business development

ASKING $679,000 MLS® C8013862

This concrete block built structure is being sold in ‘as-is, where-is’ condition If you would like to view the property, please call Ron to make the appropriate arrangements.

9720sf Building on 6.13 Acres

International Museum Day May 18, 2018

LIKE NorthEast BC Realty Facebook Page and Ron & Theresa Rodgers will donate $1 for every LIKE to the

FORT ST JOHN NORTH PEACE MUSEUM in honor of

International Museum Day Likes calculated from March17 to May17 2018 maximum donation of $2000

IF YOU WANT MORE INFO ABOUT COMMERCIAL, RETAIL OR INDUSTRIAL REAL ESTATE, CALL RON RODGERS FOR OPPORTUNITIES IN THE NORTH EAST BC AREA Information is not intended to solicit properties already listed for sale, or buyers already under contract. All measurements and information is believed to be accurate but not guaranteed and should be verified.

A12 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018

Local News

plugging in Learning to use their cell phone or iPad kept members of the Fort St. John 50+ Club busy recently. A special workshop hosted by the FSJ Metis Society and shared with the 50+ Club was most informative. Everyone agreed that they could finally use their device and are now looking forward to the follow-up class. Left: Mark is helping Doris learn the specifics of her cell phone. Right: Bernice Marshall getting advice from Allie. submitted photos

Open house set on proposed Tsaa Nuna conservancy

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Offers end April 30, 2018. 0% APR purchase financing for 72 months on new John Deere 2 Family Sub-Compact Utility Tractors. Eligibility for $0 down payment offer is limited to highly qualified customers and scheduled monthly payments will be required. Representative Amount Financed: $10,000, at 0% APR, monthly payment is $138.89 for 72 months, total obligation is $10,000, cost of borrowing is $0. Monthly payments/cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed/down payment. Cost of borrowing based on Representative Amount Financed not MSRP cash price. Offer valid from March 3, 2018 until April 30, 2018. Minimum finance amount may be required; representative amount does not guarantee offer applies. The charge for amounts past due is 24% per annum. Financing on approved John Deere Financial credit only. See dealer for details. Some restrictions apply. *Drive Green coupons are valid for dollars off the agreed upon purchase price of select new John Deere products, and from an authorized John Deere dealer made between March 1, 2018 and September 20, 2018. In order for the coupon to be valid, customers must sign, date, and submit a registration card at the Drive Green Event where the coupon was obtained and that same customer must redeem the coupon within 30-60 days of that same Drive Green Event, depending on offer. Coupons valid only at participating U.S. and Canadian John Deere dealers. Other restrictions may apply. See participating dealer or visit JohnDeere.com/DriveGreen for full details.

The province will hold an open house Wednesday, April 25, to get feedback on 5,975 hectares of land along the Halfway River being proposed for a new conservancy. The province is collecting comments on the Tsaa Nuna conservancy, part of a new government-to-government agreement signed with the Halfway River First Nation in March, and how it may impact third parties and the public. The conservancy is proposed to be located on the south shore of the Halfway River opposite of the First Nation, about 35 kilometres northeast of Butler Ridge Provincial Park, and 65 kilometres northwest of Fort St. John. “The conservancy is intended to protect the high cultural values and wildlife habitats of the area,” the government said in a news release Monday. “The land within the proposed conservancy is of historic and continuing significance for the practice of Treaty Rights by Halfway River First Nation.” Tsaa Nuna (pronounced sa-na-na) was traditionally referred to as Tusdzuh, and used by First Nations for hunting, fishing, trapping, and gathering plants and berries, according to a government discussion paper. Halfway River First Nation has been working to protect the area since 1999, when the province first issued a cutting permit to allow for logging. The courts would later overturn that decision and set aside the permit, and a protective notation was put over the land. It remains a largely undisturbed forest, according to the province, while Halfway River has constructed build-

ings and cabins to support its existing year-round use of the area, which includes teaching First Nations youth about the natural environment, and to practice cultural and spiritual customs. A conservancy designation would recognize the area to First Nations for social, ceremonial, and cultural uses, the province says. Once established, BC Parks would be responsible for developing a management plan with Halfway River and other First Nations, and would be responsible for managing the area. The conservancy would allow for “low impact” economic opportunities. Logging, mining, and hydroelectric power generation other than run-ofriver would be prohibited. The government expects limited impacts on oil and gas, logging, mining, trapping, and agriculture. While no on-site oil and gas exploration would be allowed, the province notes directional or horizontal rilling from outside the conservancy could still occur. A park use permit would be required for commercial recreational activities, including nature tours, kayak/canoe tours, angling and big game guiding, film production, and research activities. The open house will run April 25 from 3 to 7 p.m. in Room 202 at Northern Lights College in Fort St. John. Written comments are being accepted until May 25, by writing or emailing: Lisa Brock Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development 100-10003 110th Avenue Fort St. John, BC V1J 6M7 Email: Lisa.Brock@gov.bc.ca

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Single-family home sales in Fort St. John are up 34 per cent in the first quarter of 2018, but selling for 17 per cent less on average, according to B.C. Northern Real Estate Board stats released last week. Fort St. John saw 55 homes sell for an average price of $340,968 as of March 31. At the same time last year, 41 homes had sold for an average of $410,623. “In Fort St. John, the number sales have been approximately the same as they were in in 2017, though inventory is lower,” the board noted in its report. “Employment opportunities with the oil and gas industry, and with the Site C Dam, has not translated into increased market activity.” Across the Fort St. John area, there were 95 properties worth $31.1 million sold by the end of March, compared to 93 properties worth $38.6 million at the same time last year. The city has also seen the sale of nine half-duplexes, seven homes on acreages, three manufactured homes in parks another five on land, according to the board. Six vacant lots have also sold. At the end of March, there

were 664 properties for sale on the Multiple Listing Service, down from 695 by the same point last year. In Fort Nelson, sales have increased while listings have decreased. There, 22 properties worth $1.9 million were sold by the end of March, up from the 13 properties worth $1.8 million in the same period last year. As of March 31, there were 97 properties listed through MLS in the Fort Nelson area. Across Northern B.C., 914 properties worth $237.6 million had sold through MLS in the first quarter—down slightly from 934 properties worth $250.6 million that changed hands in the same time last year. “The mortgage stress test that was implemented last year, appears to have had a minimal impact on most markets in the BC Northern Real Estate Board area,” board president Court Smith said in a statement. “Many areas have been impacted by the prolonged winter weather. Most markets are seeing reduced sales activity and lower inventory over the same period last year. Real estate in northern BC continues to be very affordable as compared to other regions of the province.”

THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018 A13

Local News

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WALCOTT

All sides of this contemporary home are equally attractive. Stepped gables form a backdrop for tall multipaned windows that ﬂank a tapered stucco chimney. Richly windowed on all sides, this home is naturally bright and feels open and spacious throughout. More ambient light spills down through skylights, illuminating the upper-level balcony/ landing, as well as the foyer, built-in desk and hutch below. The vaulted living room also has two skylights, along with dramatic quarter-round windows on both sides of the ﬁreplace. Kitchen, nook and family room are so marginally separated that standing at the kitchen sink, you can easily keep tabs on everything going on in this expansive space. The half-octagonal nook

is as cozy as it is sunny, while a large work island and small pantry boost cupboard and counter space. A generously sized utility room and a small powder room are nearby, off the hallway that connects with the garage.

Bedroom 12'4'' x 11'4''

Upstairs is the Walcott's vaulted owners' suite. Soaking in the deep spa tub, you'll feel like you've landed in the lap of luxury. Other amenities here include twin vanities, a roomy walk-in closet and a separately enclosed shower and toilet. The railed and covered balcony offers a refreshing and somewhat private getaway/lounging area. Storage space lines the hallway to the secondary bedrooms and their shared bathroom.

Vaulted Owners’ Suite 16' x 15'

Vaulted Balcony 8' x 16'

Bedroom 12'10'' x 11'4''

Nook 11' x 10'6'' Utility

A board and batt wainscot, painted shutters and an open-beam, gabled balcony add to the charm of the Walcott, a midsize two-story home.

Family 15'6'' x 15'4''

Garage 28' x 23'

Kitchen

Walcott

PLAN 30-166

Covered Porch

Associated Designs is the original source for the Walcott 30-166. For more information or to view other designs, visit www.AssociatedDesigns.com or call 800-634-0123.

Vaulted Living 15' x 19'4''

First Floor 1134 sq.ft. Second Floor 1018 sq.ft. Living Area 2152 sq.ft. Garage 684 sq.ft. Dimensions 66'4''x42'6'' 2000 SERIES www.AssociatedDesigns.com

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• one block from Bert Ambrose and Kin Park • 3 bedrooms, 3 baths • Privacy and family!

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A14 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018

PERSPECTIVES

Thy rod comforts me

n kindergarten, I stood for Show and Tell. “Last night, my mom gave my sister a fat lip,” I announced. My teacher went to the Grade 2 classroom of my elder sister and saw that she did indeed have a fat lip. My teacher then telephoned my mother. “Our Angela has a great imaginatio,.” my mother said. Proverbs 13:24 says of child rearing: “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.” The phrase “spare the rod, spoil the child” is a modern-day catch phrase that means if a parent fails to physically discipline a child, that child will become unruly. Proverbs 22:15 implores parents to employ the rod of correction to drive foolishness from a child. Most feel “rod” refers to a stick or switch used to dole out physical pain. Might a rod instead be a staff of a benevolent ruler or gentle shepherd? David, in Psalm 23, says that the Lord’s rod comforts him. The Bible warns that parents should never abuse the power and authority they have over their children because it provokes the children to righteous anger (Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21). Physical discipline is used to vent the frustration of he who strikes his victim. If a parent steps away to avoid striking a child in anger, the desire to physically lash out dissipates once cooler heads prevail. Children are valuable and deserving of love (Psalm 127:3). Discipline is used to instill wisdom (Proverbs 29:15), and a child who obeys his parents will become wise (Proverbs 13:1). Adults who do not heed correction will likewise feel the consequences of their foolishness (Proverbs 10:13). The Bible, then, advocates for discipline, not corporal punishment. Researchers have found specific changes in key regions of the brain of adults who were physically and verbally abused in childhood. Fiftythree per cent suffer from depression and 40 per cent struggle with PTSD. Survivors are hyper-vigilante. They have a heightened stress system permanently set on high alert, which intensifies their

HOROSCOPE ARIES (MARCH 21 TO APRIL 19) Don’t act on any decision today unless you’re sure. It’s easy to be mildly confused because of daydreams, imaginary fantasies or misinformation. Be careful. TAURUS (APRIL 20 TO MAY 20) You love creature comforts and beautiful things, especially antiques, fine wood, pewter and gold. Do not be tempted to spend more money than you can afford today. GEMINI (MAY 21 TO JUNE 20) Today the Moon is in your sign, at odds with fuzzy Neptune. This makes it easy to deceive yourself or talk yourself into something. Don’t kid yourself. CANCER (JUNE 21 TO JULY 22) Something might confuse you today. If you feel this way, do not act. Unless you know what you want and you feel that you are on firm footing, do nothing. LEO (JULY 23 TO AUG. 22) You like your friends to be wonderful people, which is why you try to see the best in them. Today you might even idealize a friend. (Don’t get carried away.) VIRGO (AUG. 23 TO SEPT. 22) Be careful when talking to bosses, parents and VIPs today. Something might confuse you. If you think something fishy is going on, it probably is. LIBRA (SEPT. 23 TO OCT. 22) Don’t get sucked into someone else’s rhetoric or fancy talk about religion, politics or racial issues.

For Thursday April 19 2018

Listen to your own common sense, and do the right thing. (Kindness is the most important thing. SCORPIO (OCT. 23 TO NOV. 21) Be careful about decisions regarding inheritances, shared property or shared responsibilities for someone or something. Someone might deceive you. You might not have the full picture. Use caution. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 TO DEC. 21) Be clear in all your communications with partners and close friends today, because they are subject to confusion and misinterpretation. Some people just hear what they want to hear. CAPRICORN (DEC. 22 TO JAN. 19) It’s hard to get excited about work today, because you would rather be playing, fishing, biking or — fill in the blank. Just do what you can. AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 TO FEB. 18) Romance might be disappointing today. Don’t let this get you down, because it’s quite likely that this disappointment is only a misunderstanding. Don’t jump to conclusions. PISCES (FEB. 19 TO MARCH 20) Your relationship with a female family member might be confused today. Do what you can to make sure that your communications with others are clear. Make sure you know what they want.

Angela Griffin PEACE REFLECTIONS

fight or flight response. The dysregulation of the stress system intensifies feelings of anxiety and fear and leads to an inability to feel pleasure in life, which may in turn prompt people to escape into alcohol or drugs. More resilient survivors continue to be vulnerable to chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and dementia. The cost of child abuse in Canada is in excess of $15 billion a year. These are costs related to low productivity, healthcare, child welfare, special education services, and criminal justice fees. We cannot afford to perpetuate child mistreatment on any level. What was once considered simply “parenting” is now more accurately characterized as child abuse. Many abusive families deny that any dysfunction exists so that they can remain in familial relationship with one another. When the family whistleblower speaks openly of the abuse in an effort to heal and live authentically in their own skin, that individual is shunned and scapegoated for the family’s problems in the same way that ancient societies, in the face of cataclysmic events, attached the sins of the village to the back of a goat and drove the animal into the desert to appease the gods. God expects parents to discipline children the way He parents. When parents trust God’s methods over their own, they’ll reap lifelong blessings in their relationships with their children. The poet Kahlil Gibran reminds us: Your children are not your children. They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself. They come through you but not from you. The Peace is a place of many peoples and faiths. In this space, readers are invited to share their own reflections of faith in the Peace. If you have a story of faith you’d like to share, email angelamarygriffin@gmail.com.

Old and Discarded

Dear Annie: I am a 72-yearold married (for now) man. I was just told by my wife that she wants a divorce because I am no fun. We’ve been married for almost 50 years. Apparently, she has been planning this for quite some time. She got a face-lift, wants liposuction, etc. She goes out dancing and has been working out. This activity has been precipitated because I have been reacting to some of my meds and have a tumor in my right kidney. I have been slowed down by bad hips and knees and a bad back from sports as a youth. She has also said that seeing as she is turning 70, she doesn’t have much time. Who does? Apparently, she forgot who waited on her hand and foot after her face-lift (when she spent three days in bed), broken leg (when I spent six weeks carrying her around) and auto accident (when she was bedridden at home for three weeks). I never considered it a burden. She doesn’t want to RV in our 40-foot bus anymore because I have to go to the bathroom every two hours. I interrupt the driving. I enjoyed the trips around the country. So did she. I don’t do drugs, drink a lot or cheat. She has cheated in the

free bird of a wife might realize this and turn around. If not, remember that you deserve love and happiness, and if your wife insists on divorce, then find it with someone else.

Annie Lane DEAR ANNIE

past, which wasn’t so bad as the lying about it. We have done well in life and are well-off. I am disappointed in her selfishness. Evidently, assisting her mother during her dad’s messy and prolonged death several years ago established a “not me” attitude for her future. Well, excuse me for getting old. I have tried hard to mend perceived issues and overcome fabricated slights. My list of her offenses is pretty substantial, too. I think the river has run its course. Should I flee or fight to stay? -Discarded in Sarasota Dear Discarded: It takes two to fight, and right now it sounds as if your wife is pretty clear that she wants to flee with her divorce request. The death of her father and turning 70 really had an impact on her. I understand your being short with her because you are so angry and hurt by her actions. But the reality is that you sound like a great husband, and there are millions of women who would give anything to have a husband like you. If you found one, your

Dear Annie: As a pharmacist, I would like to help clarify the need for the use of milliliters versus U.S. customary units. A milliliter is an exact measurement. A teaspoon or a tablespoon in a utensil set can have a large disparity in volume compared with that of a measuring spoon. Therefore, it is expected that someone using a teaspoon or tablespoon measurement would give more or less than the prescribed amount, leading to over- or under-dosing -- dangerous in either case. I have worked in retail pharmacy in three different states. The pharmacies have had complimentary dosing spoons to make the measurements accurate. Customers should always ask for a spoon rather than convert. -- Caring for the Customer Dear Caring for the Customer: Thank you for sharing and for caring. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com. To find out more about Annie Lane and read features by other Creators Syndicate columnists and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com. COPYRIGHT 2017 CREATORS.COM

THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018 A15

Coffee Corner $159,900 5782 Baldonnel Rd MLS# R2149165

Great place to start. 2 bdrm (could be 3) 1976 mobile on 1 acre 10 minutes from Fort St John.

$219,900 10176 101 St, MLS# R2255017

Well-kept 3-bedroom home built in 2002. Located on a quiet street in Taylor BC

$84,900 #176, 9207 - 82 St MLS# R2209062

Over $15000 in updates, large master bedrm next to the 4 pc bth, 2 decks & 2 sheds for seasonal storage..

$5,600,000 11579- 85 Chevron Front, MLS# C8014514

Access to Alaska Highway, 2 storey office bldg w/ 7 offices, attached 18,000 sq. ft. shop.

TODAYS PUZZLE

$545,000 11008 88A St, MLS# R2245218

Welcome to Whispering Winds, impressive 5-bedroom/3-bathroom home backing onto green space and offering a huge 0.236/acre lot

$319,900 9612 97 Street MLS# R2254854

Immaculate 4-bedroom/3-bathroom half-duplex built in 2002 and ready for a new owner.

$64,900 41 8420 Alaska Rd MLS# R2247297

Lots of updates in this lovely 14’-wide modular home, backing onto green space..

$10/square ft 102 - 10130 100 Ave, MLS# C8016557

Quick possession available with this excellent move in ready and updated office/retail space located on 100th Ave in Ft St John. Over 2100 sq ft.

hOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: you must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column or 3x3 box. PREVIOUS PUZZLES ANSWERS

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

ACCORD ASTON MARTIN AUSTIN AVALON BEETLE BMW CHEVROLET CORVETTE DAEWOO DESOTO DUESENBERG EDSEL FERRARI

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

FORD HONDA JEEP JENSEN KIA LAGONDA LEXUS LINCOLN LOTUS MERCEDES BENZ MINI PACKARD PANTHER

• • • • • • • • • • •

PILOT RAMBLER ROVER SAAB SCION SHELBY STUDEBAKER SUBARU TOYOTA VOLKSWAGEN WRANGLER

TODAY’S PUZZLE

40. Tennis matches have at least two 41. Reunifying Chinese dynasty 42. Not just “play” 44. Angry 45. Photomultiplier tube 48. Slovenly person 50. __ and Diu 52. Cologne 53. What actors deliver 55. Campaigned 56. Cash machine 57. Spanish be 58. Animal that eats insects 63. Colonists who supported the British 65. Loved 66. A pair of people who live together 67. Work tools CLUES DOWN

1. Kilogram force (abbr.)

2. Your consciousness of your own identity 3. Score 4. A way to modify 5. Respect 6. Midwife 7. Region near the Dead Sea 8. __ Gerais: goldrich state of Brazil 9. Equally 10. Monetary units 11. The mentioning of things one by one

PREVIOUS PUZZLES ANSWERS

CLUES ACROSS 1. Maintained possession of 5. Dropsy 10. Type of music 12. One who is deliberately cruel 14. 411 16. Rhode Island 18. Follows sigma 19. Baked dessert 20. Craftsman 22. Austrian river 23. Distributed 25. Close 26. Midway between east and southeast 27. Thunderstorm code 28. Where wrestlers work 30. Away from (prefix) 31. Canadian law enforcers 33. Shade 35. Sir Samuel __, Brit. statesman 37. Della __, singer 38. Existing in fact

13. Traveling entertainers 15. Small island 17. A way to sing 18. __-bo: form of exercise 21. “The Bard” 23. The best player 24. Male parent 27. Harm the reputation of 29. Allow for the tare of 32. Grand __: wine classification 34. Soak 35. Bother 36. Ophthalmologist 39. Preceded 40. __ Francisco, California 43. Touch gently 44. Lithuanian given name 46. Matched 47. Stomach 49. Mother of all gods in Scots’ Celtic mythology 51. Partner to cheese 54. Fit of irritation 59. Visit 60. Suffragist Wells 61. Swearing to the truth of a statement 62. Old Red Sandstone 64. Sacred Hindu syllable

A16 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018

sights from the cknl fort st. john trade show

eve petford photos

Stylist Beth Levi takes care of Gracie Kobasiuk’s hair at the Fort St. John Trade Show on April 14. The 46th annual event was sold out with more than 300 booths, and saw more than 14,000 people through the doors, trade show manager Christina Hogarth says. “Overall, we were thrilled with the support from the community and seeing so many people and families coming out to enjoy the show,” Hogarth said. “Vendor feedback was also fantastic – a lot of the out of town vendors commented how friendly and inviting the people of Fort St. John are… and that’s why they enjoy coming back year after year! So our community and its people truly make a difference.”

A seeker of fortune consulted the cards at the Trade Show.

Kelly Farrell, Kim Livingstone, Carlen Bubar sported hockey jerseys at the Sand and Stone jewelry booth to stickhandle donations for the Fort St. John Minor Hockey Association, and kids needing support to get into the sport. More than $5,600 has been raised so far. “This is going to the FSJ Minor Hockey Association to allow those boys and girls who want to play hockey, but can’t afford it... to play,” Livingstone said in a post on Facebook. “To have their fees taken care of. To have equipment needs taken care of. But most of all, to have that longing in their heart to be part of a team, taken care of.” To learn more on how to help, visit Sand and Stone on Facebook.

Left: Samantha Shipley braved new heights on the Camp Sagitawa climbing wall. Top: Dan Davies was thumbs up and all smiles. Bottom: Diane Cazes from Critters and Crates ’N More shows Lindsay Hilderman handcrafted goods.

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Sports & Leisure

THURSDAY APRIL 19, 2018 CONTACT US 250-785-5631 editor@ahnfsj.ca

SOCCER SEASON OPENER

MINOR HOCKEY AWARDS

SPORTS B2

SPORTS B3

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PHONE: 250-785-0463

A dream of spring Dillon Giancola THE DILL ZONE

H DILLON GIANCOLA PHOTO

The 2018 Ross H. MacLean Peewee Flyers were honoured for being a semi-finalist in the Chevrolet Good Deeds Cup this season at the 2018 Fort St. John Minor Hockey Association awards ceremony. Turn to B3 for a full list of the award winners.

Golden Gloves a chance to grow boxing locally DILLON GIANCOLA sports@ahnfsj.ca

The top amateur boxers in B.C. and Alberta will take over Fort St. John for the 2018 B.C. Golden Gloves Championships at the Pomeroy Hotel this weekend, April 20 and 21. The fights will begin each night at 6:30 p.m., with 15 local fighters from Fivestar Boxing Academy competing. “It’s pretty cool to have an event this big in your hometown. You get to showcase your skills and win a prestigious award in front of everyone you know,” said Nick Young, a 2018 national silver medalist. Fivestar co-owners Justin Donally and Tosha Mytron have put on many boxing and mixed martial arts events, and the Golden Gloves are the next step in growing the sport of boxing in the city. “This is an opportunity for (Donally) to showcase the top athletes in our province and Alberta, and I know he’s going to do a fantastic job,”

SUPPLIED PHOTO

The 15 fighters pictured here with their coach Justin Donally will represent Fivestar Boxing Academy at this weekend’s 2018 B.C. Golden Gloves Championships.

said Boxing B.C. President Ryan O’Shea. Fivestar has been training competitive boxers for only two years, but has achieved a lot in that time. “We’ve already had four kids go to nationals in two years of boxing, so that’s pretty unheard of. We have

a lot of younger kids coming up and when they’re old enough I think we’ll have a lot more national champions from Fort St. John,” Young said. Boxing has been making a comeback of sorts for a number of years now. Around three years ago, there were

only about 10 boxing clubs in B.C., Donally said. Today, there are more than 60, with more than 1,000 registered members in Boxing B.C. Still, it’s not a sport the average person has tried, but there are many benefits to amateur boxing. See GOLDEN GLOVES on B3

Hedges wins bronze at Western Championships DILLON GIANCOLA sports@ahnfsj.ca

The Inconnu Swim Club sent a team of four swimmers to Victoria last weekend for the 2018 Speedo Western Championships — Alex Hedges, Brittany Welsh, Eric Louie and Griffin Ternier-Smith — with Hedges winning the club’s lone medal. Hedges won the bronze in the 50m freestyle final for the 16 and over age group. Hedges swam a time of 27:02 seconds, coming just two one-hundredths of a second behind the second place finisher, and less than a second behind Kyla Leibel of Red Deer. “Alex swam a great race against one of the very best in Canada,” said Inconnu Head Coach Steve Carson. There were a couple Inconnu club records broken

as well. Hedges broke her own 100m freestyle record, swimming it in 69:12, while Welsh broke the 50m backstroke record with a time of 31:26. One of the most exciting swims of the meet for Inconnu was Louie’s swim in the 100m breaststroke B final. Carson said they tried a different strategy in the prelim, which didn’t have the desired affect, and Louie ended up being the first alternate for the B final. That means he would only swim in the B final if another swimmer didn’t show up for the race. That’s exactly what happened, as one swimmer didn’t make the race, and Louie took his place, winning with ease. “It’s like he was shot out of a cannon and never looked back. He won by more than a second, and qualified

for the Canadian Junior Championships,” Carson said. Louie’s time of 1:07:98 would have been good enough for sixth in the A final. “I had coaches and officials come up to me all weekend congratulating Eric on the race. It shows you how important it is to race your best in the prelims, and that even if you’re an alternate, always show up because you never know what can happen,” said Carson. For Ternier-Smith, this was his first meet competing amongst this level of competition. “I thought he swam great, and we swam really well as a team overall,” Carson said. The club had trouble previously finishing the final 20m of long-course races, which the swimmers don’t get to train on in Fort St. John because the city only

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has a short-course pool. This time, Carson said his swimmers did really well finishing races. This was just the second year that Swim Canada held this meet in April instead of February. Carson said most clubs struggled in 2017, but made adjustments, as did Inconnu, to make sure they were swimming their best in April in 2018. Next up for Inconnu is a meet in Grande Prairie May 5 and 6. Carson is taking a group of 30 swimmers to help make that meet competitive and successful, as several clubs from the Calgary area are attending for the first time. After that, the club will change its focus to the Saskatchewan provincials, the Canadian Junior Championships, and the B.C. Summer Games, all in July.

ardcore nerds such as myself will recognize the title of this column as being the title of the long rumoured seventh and final book of the A Song of Ice and Fire series, the source material of the Game of Thrones TV show. Much to my frustration, that book still hasn’t come out, and perhaps never will. That’s how I feel about spring here in the real world, it might never come. Fort St. John isn’t close to spring because it snowed as recently April 17. I usually make an effort to not complain about the weather. Everybody does it, they act surprised, yet it seems, at least in Canada, that April is never as nice as we want or expect it to be. I also try to wait until December 1 before I wear a winter jacket because I think it makes me cooler. That’s just a fun fact as to how my mind works. But I have cracked. The last two weeks, whether it’s attempting to watch baseball on TV, talking to coworkers at the office, or trying to report on sports in town, everyone’s been complaining about the weather. Now I am too. For the sports community, this prolonged winter is brutal. Every sport in town, from golf and soccer to baseball and even disc golf, is expected to start its season later than normal. It’s not like we’re a week away. Even if it doesn’t snow again this week, it’s still going to take a long stretch of warm weather to melt all the snow we do have, and then more warm weather to dry up the fields and greens. At least there’s still sports on TV. The NHL and NBA playoffs are a week in and have been great, as always. But sometimes, you want to watch some baseball. Unfortunately, 24 MLB games have been cancelled already this year, including three Jays games in a row from April 14 to 16. It’s not just the North Peace that’s had a crazy winter. Southern Ontario had a vicious ice storm last weekend, and the Canadian prairies are still covered in snow too. I don’t know about you, but to bide my time, I’ll be practicing my golf swing in my living room. I don’t have a big place, and I don’t have a putting green, so that could be a problem. At least the B.C. Golden Gloves Championships will be here this weekend, and I can’t wait to watch those. The best thing is, boxing is an indoor sport. But rest assured, as soon as we get a 15 degree day, and grass starts to show and birds begin to chirp, I will put on shorts and head straight to Dairy Queen. Then, I will attempt to go golfing on the wet, patchy course, and freeze. I have a dream, a dream of spring, and, as everyone knows, dreams always come true.

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B2 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018

Local Sports

Huskies, Sr. Flyers and Eagles hosting Humboldt fundraiser

dillon giancola photo

Team 1 played Team 3 in the U13 girls division played each other on Sunday during the Fort St. John Soccer Club’s House League Season Opener Tournament.

Soccer club hosts inaugural season-opener tournament Dillon giancola sports@ahnfsj.ca

supplied photo

Fort St. John Huskies President Mike Bacso, right, and members of AAA Safety share their support for the victims of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash on April 12.

Dillon giancola sports@ahnfsj.ca

On April 22, the Fort St. John Huskies, Senior Flyers, and North Peace Eagles are partnering with the City of Fort St. John for the Free Skate Fundraiser for Humboldt. From 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the North Peace Arena, there will be a free skate with the three teams, along with a pancake breakfast. Breakfast will be by donation, and all proceeds will go towards the Humboldt Broncos GoFundMe campaign. There will be a silent auction, a bake sale, a 50/50 draw and a wheel to spin to win a small prize,

with all money raised being donated as well. “It continues our goal of being a community leader as an organization. All three teams, as well as everyone in Canada, has been affected by this tragedy and can relate,” said Huskies President Mike Bacso. Skaters are able to bring sticks and helmets, and are encouraged to wear a jersey. The time of the event was extended from 12:30 p.m. until 1 p.m., to allow those that attend church on Sunday mornings to take part in the skate afterwards. Sunday morning was the only ice time available.

R0021217976

The Fort St. John Soccer Club held a successful inaugural House League Season Opener from April 13 to 15, and is eagerly waiting for the snow to melt and fields to dry to begin play outdoors. The club decided to hold the tournament this year to allow kids to get into playing mode earlier. Around 500 kids are registered for the upcoming outdoor season, with 400 of them in the U11 to U19 age groups, who played at the tournament. The teams are selected randomly from the registered kids in each age group, and are not representative of the actual teams in the upcoming season. “The tournament has been great. Our goal is to have more players play more soccer more often, and we’ve been very successful. About 80 per cent of our registered players participated this weekend,” said Tina

Pike, club secretary and treasurer. The outdoor season was scheduled to begin April 30, but Pike said they are now hoping to start by the middle of May. The 2017 outdoor season began on May 5, which was also a week late, but that was due to lateApril rain, not persistent snowfall. Pike said the club will try and secure some time at the Kid’s Fieldhouse Arena to start league play at the end of April, but it won’t replace all the missed games. “Usually, we’re playing on 10 to 15 fields at a time. Starting the season indoors will be a challenge, as there’s only one pitch, but every game that the kids get to play will help,” Pike said. The club is changing its age groupings this season from even to odd years (U14 to U13, U16 to U15) in the hopes of fielding more girlsonly teams. “We’re always pushing to have more girls to join, and we’re seeing more girls register so far,” said Pike.

PRO GOLF WEEKLY UPDATE Golf News, Tips, Trivia & Stats

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Answer : a) Joe Nemechek

This Week’s Cup Series Race: Toyota Owners 400

B4 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018

LOCAL SPORTS

In search of a good sleep? Here are a few clues on how to find it

hat do you prioritize over sleep? Our days are full of work, cleaning, exercise, cooking, and social gatherings. With all those other priorities, it’s hard to put sleep as number one, but you may want to. The recommended hours of sleep per night for adults is seven to nine hours. You get the best quality sleep between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., so being in bed and winding down by 9:30 will help you achieve the best rest possible. Having a bed time routine is an important aspect of trying to ensure you are getting a good night’s sleep. A simple routine could be washing your face, brushing your teeth, getting changed, doing some relaxing stretches, and then reading a few pages of a book. Having a routine helps your mind and body wind down from the

Stephenie Sutherland HEALTH HACKS

day, and it lets your body know that it’s bed time. Staying away from the TV, your computer, and phone at least 30 minutes before bed will also help; the light given off from screens has been shown to affect melatonin levels in the brain. Turning your phone onto silent mode and making sure your bedroom is as dark as possible are other ways to minimize distractions and help your brain prepare for a snooze. The following are a few great reasons to focus on making more time to catch

some Zzzz’s: 1. Getting enough sleep at night helps to maintain healthy brain function and emotional wellbeing, including increasing your mood. 2. Helps your physical wellbeing. It allows your body to heal and repair and it supports an efficient immune system. 3. Sleep deprivation can put a person at risk for obesity because of the effect it has on weight and metabolism. Sleep helps balance hormones and also helps people make appropriate choices and decisions, as well as giving them energy to get exercise. Spending a couple of weeks creating a night time routine, attempting to get seven to nine hours, and focusing on good quality sleep will make a huge difference in your everyday life.

WELLNESS ROUND UP: Science Daily posted an article back in January reviewing a study done at Kings College London. This study found that sleeping longer each night can help reduce a person’s intake of sugary foods and increase healthy eating habits. This study helps to show the importance of good quality sleep and the impact it can have on your health. Stephenie Sutherland is a Fort St. John student studying nutrition and food sciences. She can found at the gym, hiking local trails, and serving up a hot cuppa joe at Whole Wheat and Honey. Have a question? Email her at stephenie. sutherland13@gmail.com.

Bizarre winter causing delays in sports DILLON GIANCOLA sports@ahnfsj.ca

DILLON GIANCOLA PHOTO

Students at Robert Ogilvie Elementary School wore jerseys to school on April 12 in a show of support for the victims of the Humboldt Broncos crash.

April 22. That’s the latest that the Lone Wolf Golf Course in Taylor has ever opened. One look out the window shows it would take a miracle for any golf course in the area to be open by this Sunday. Snowfall records have been broken this winter, and it seems like the snow will cause a golf record to be broken as well. “We’re definitely breaking that record, there’s no way we’re opening next week. Maybe the range if anything, but that’s it,” said Craig Simpson, Lone Wolf’s general manager. That’s the case for all the golf courses in the region. Fort St. John Links are hoping for the beginning of May. Ryan Galay, the lead professional at Lakepoint Golf and Country Club, said they could open as late as the May long weekend, which isn’t until May 18. Last year, Lone Wolf opened on April 8, although the course was closed for 10 days shortly after because of a snowstorm. Still, that shows just how different the weather in 2018 has been, and how much snow has fallen. It’s not just golf that’s affected. The North Peace Minor Baseball and Fort St. John Soccer

Club outdoor season start dates are being pushed into May, and the disc golf course may not be playable until the end of May. “If we have to wait for the snow to melt and fields to dry, we’ll be lucky to start our season in the middle of May,” said Tina Pike, secretary and treasurer of the soccer club. The season was set to start on April 30. The show must go on, however, and the golf courses are being proactive. Instead of waiting for warmer weather, Simpson has been using a bobcat to clear the course with a snowblower to remove as much snow as possible. “People think it looks weird, but it really does help. I’ve left half a foot of the snow on the greens, so that when the melt down does happen, the greens will be the first to melt,” Simpson said. From there, it’s a matter of getting tarps on the greens right away, and waiting some more until they are in good enough shape to golf. Barring anything unforeseen, it’s likely there won’t be any outdoor summer sports being played in April. But May is just two weeks away, and the weather changes quickly. At the very least, golfers, soccer players, and batters and pitchers have two to three weeks to get in shape and perfect their craft.

Green Valley 4-H Report Katelynn Bueckert Green Valley 4H Katelynn Bueckert here reporting from Greenvalley 4H club well another month has come and gone. Everyone has done their speeches and educational displays at the district 4-H Communications this was held at the North lights college. The ones that participated in this did not move on to the Regional Communications in Dawson Creek on April 14. That was a new experience for everyone that participated this year they had fun but it was a long day. The sheep have been weighed measured and now at their new homes now the work begins for the ones that are in sheep feeding watering taking care of them making sure they have clean bedding etc. Also getting to know them and them getting to know you and trusting you and you trusting them it’s a fun time.

it has been a long long winter then you can do more with your animals better to walk them around and training them hopefully spring will come soon. Our next meeting for our club is in May at Harmon‘s will be doing a mini fair getting ready for the district rally in June learning how to judge things like pigs , horses, food etc. Beef weigh in as well hoping that it is not to muddy at that time. Well thanks for reading my report can’t wait to tell you what’s going on next month thanks to our page sponsor.

Everyone is doing great with their animals and they are all enjoying them. Everyone is hoping that the Snow was gone and spring was here

250.785.2116 | 9511 - 85th Ave, Fort St. John

Keep calm and 4-H on Katelynn Bueckert club reporter Green Valley 4-H Club

THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018 B5

arts & culture

matt preprost photos

Nansen Andersen performs in the guitar division of the Peace River North Performing Arts Festival at the North Peace Cultural Centre on Monday, April 16. The competition carries on through the week, with speech arts on April 18, and dance from April 19 to 22. The festival ends with a Best of the Fest Honours Concert Sunday, April 22, starting at 6:30 p.m.

Meag Donald of Meag N Company opens a night of rock nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roll at the Lido Theatre on Friday, April 13.

Edmonton comedian Sean Baptiste plays a hypnosis trick on audiences at the Pomeroy Hotel April 13, during a fundraiser for the literacy society.

matt preprost photos

Left: The Johnny McCuaig Band gets the Lido audience on its feet April 13 in a high energy performance mixing contemporary rock, alternative, folk, pop, and bagpipes. Centre: Cody MacGillivray and Emry Mika rehearse a scene from the upcoming Stage North production of Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wedding, set to hit the North Peace Cultural Centre stage April 26 to 28. Right: Jim Fenton of Roadworn on the harmonica April 13 at the Lido Theatre.

B6 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018

Coming EvEnts

2018 DAWSON CITY International Gold Show. The northernmost placer mining and consumer trade show. May 18th & 19th. Visit goldshow.dawsoncitychamberofcommerce.ca for information. Or call 867-9935274.

Acquired Brain Injury Support Group: ABI Support group meets every 2nd & 4th Thursday of month at 6:00pm at the Northern Brain Injury Association office: #11-1405 102 Ave Dawson Creek. Please call 250-719-4673 for more information. http://nbia.ca/

Borderline Culture Series presents: Abigail Lapell & BandSaturday, April 21, 2018 at the Demmitt Community Centre (1/2 Mile South of Hwy 43 on RR 132). Doors open at 7:00 pm (AB time) Concert at 8:00pm Tickets: $25.Advance. $30. Door. For tickets and information call 780-356-2904 or go to www.borderlineculture.com Mile “O” Quilter’s Guild meets every Tuesday & Thursday in Dawson Creek at KPAC in Studio #10 at 7pm

PC Roots Group Building Open: Every Saturday Sept-June 10:00am-12:00pm to members wanting to use the genealogy library. A member will be available by appointment to anyone requiring help on how to get started on your family history. Everyone is welcome. We are located in the small building in NAR Park. For appointment call: Lynn- 250-7824058. Neil- 250-7827651. Website http://peacecountryroots.ca

Obituaries

Dawson Creek Seniors Hall Activities 1011 McKellar Ave. Floor curling, carpet bowling, pool, line dancing, bridge, crib, darts, bingo, Wellness Exercise, craft classes. Schedules are available at the hall. Come and see our hall and try out our activities.

Friday, April 20 -Ham & Beef Supper-Pouce Coupe Seniors Hall-$15.00 per person. Doors open at 5:00 pm, Supper at 5:30 pm.

Obituaries

LegaL/PubLic Notices

Land Act: Notice of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land

Take notice that 0858703 BC Ltd. from

Kelowna, BC, has applied to the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development (MFLNRORD), Northeast Region, for an Investigative Aggregate Tenure situated on Provincial Crown land located in the vicinity of Taylor, Peace River District. The Lands File for this application is 8015186. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to Joyce Veller, Authorization Officer, Northeast Region, MFLNRO, at 10010003-110th Avenue, Fort St. John, BC V1J 6M7, (250) 787-3438. Comments will be received by MFLNRORD - up to June 1, 2018. MFLNRO may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at www.arfd.gov.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/index.jsp for more information and a map of the application area or send comments directly to: AuthorizingAgency.FortStJohn@gov.bc.ca A Government decision for this application is expected on or after June 1, 2018. Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (F01) request. Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions. 52548

General employment

Coming EvEnts

SATURDAY APRIL 21 2018 - COUNTRY MUSIC DANCE-Music by “Country Horizon” at the Senior Citizens Hall, 1101 McKellar Ave, Dawson Creek. Dance from 8:30- 12:30 Admission includes lunch. For more information phone Linda at 250-843-7418 or Joanne 250-782-0158

SATURDAYS: LEARN YOUR ROOTS - Genealogy information NAR PARK ROOTS BUILDING 10:00am peacecountryroots.ca

Thursday at 9:30 amNew Beginnings Baptist Church in DC, 10221-18th St.-TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly). Phone: Gail at 250-782-7208 for more info.

General employment

PC Roots Group Meeting: 4th Sunday/month - from Sept-June 1:30pm in the Archives Room at The Calvin Kruk Center. Getting started on family tree research, need Help? Come learn & share experiences with other amateur genealogists. New members welcome. For more info call: Lynn- 250-7824058. Neil- 250-7827651. Website http://peacecountryroots.ca

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Announcements

• Valid Class 1 license & Driver abstract in good standing AreAid Welcome To Apply. • Owner-Operators Load Securement and First Training • Ability to complete / maintain accurate Driver Hours of Service Records • Able to understand and communicate in EAnnouncements nglish Announcements Announcements Announcements

South Peace Historical Society Meetings Third Wednesday of the month. In Dawson Creek at the Calvin Kruk Centre Archives Room at 2 pm.

Announcements

School District No. 60 (Peace River North) AMENDED Local School Calendar 2017-18 & 2018-19

LaPrairie Works Oilfield Services offers a competitive compensation program for qualified candidates. Please forward current resume and abstract to: Human Resources Department Email: careers@laprairiegroup.com Fax: (403) 767-‐9932 2017-18 2018-19

School Calendar Information & Non-Instructional Days Days in Session Number of Days of Instruction

District Dates

Non-Instructional Day (School Planning Day)

Friday, September 22, 2017

District Dates

189 188 180 179 We encourage all who are qualified and interested to apply in confidence, Schools Open Tuesday, September 5, 2017 Tuesday, September 4, 2018 However, only those in consideration will be contacted.

Non-Instructional Day (Curriculum)

Friday, September 21, 2018

Monday, September 24, 2018

Thanksgiving Day

Monday, October 9, 2017

Monday, October 8, 2018

Non-Instructional Day (Pro-D – Provincial)

Friday, October 20, 2017

Friday, October 19, 2018

Remembrance Day

Monday, November 13, 2017

Monday, November 12, 2018

Early Dismissal Day

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Wednesday, November 28, 2018

Early Dismissal Day

Thursday, November 30, 2017

Thursday, November 29, 2018

Non-Instructional Day (Parent-Teacher Interviews)

Friday, December 1, 2017

Friday, November 30, 2018

Christmas Vacation Period

Monday, December 25, 2017 to Friday, January 5, 2018

Monday, December 24, 2018 to Friday, January 4, 2019

Schools reopen after Christmas Vacation

Monday, January 8, 2018

Monday, January 7, 2019

Non-Instructional Day Pro-D (District)/Semester Turnaround

Friday, January 26, 2018

Friday, January 25, 2019

Non-Instructional Day (Curriculum Planning)

Monday, January 29, 2018

Monday, January 28, 2019

Family Day

Monday, February 12, 2018

Monday, February 18, 2019

Non-Instructional Day (Report Writing)

Monday, February 26, 2018

Monday, February 25, 2019

Early Dismissal Day

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Wednesday, March 13, 2019

Early Dismissal Day

Thursday, March 15, 2018

Thursday, March 14, 2019

Spring Vacation Period/ District Closure Days

Monday, March 19, 2018 to Monday, April 2, 2018

Monday, March 18, 2019 to Friday, March 29, 2019

Schools Reopen after Spring Vacation/District Closure Days

Tuesday, April 3, 2018

Monday, April 1, 2019

Good Friday

Friday, March 30, 2018

Friday, April 19, 2019

Easter Monday

Monday, April 2, 2018

Monday, April 22, 2019

Non-Instructional Day (Pro-D Day)

Friday, May 11, 2018

Friday, May 10, 2019

Non-Instructional Day (Curriculum)

Monday, May 14, 2018

Victoria Day

Monday, May 21, 2018

Monday, May 20, 2019

Last day for Students

Thursday, June 28, 2018

Thursday, June 27, 2019

Administrative Day – Schools Close

Friday, June 29, 2018

Friday, June 28, 2019

Personal Messages

General employment

$1000 Reward - We met in Edmonton night Club - Spring of 1986 Danced all night - Reg. Nurse Debbie from Victoria - Worked and shared a house with her brother in Dawson Creek - Peter worked in Fort St. John oilfields Needs to know she’s okay - Please call 519393-6559

Bookkeeper needed immediately: A well-know company located in Fort St. John is in need a bookkeeper with minimum of 1-2 years of experience in the respective field. Salary will be further discussed if selected. Interested candidates can submit their resume on: custodialnorth@gmail.com

CARETAKER WANTED Portage Mountain Yacht Club: Established in 1969, it is a private member club, made up of boaters and campers alike. It is located on the beautiful Williston Lake, near Hudson’s Hope, B.C. Position is for 6 months (may to Oct) with a monthly salary based on experience, Accommodations are included. Duties include but not limited to the following. -grounds keeper (mow grass, removal of drift wood, yard clean up) -building, equipment and water system maintenance (clean up and fixing, painting) -fueling boats -daily security rounds -assist the Staff Captain with the Annual Fishing Derby, as needed. For more information call: Ken Karpiak @250-793-3723. Send resume to: pmvc1969@hotmail.com or mail to: PMYC, Box 6431, Fort St John, BC V1J 4H8

Career OppOrtunities MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1855-768-3362 to start training for your workat-home career today! SANDMAN INNS RURAL BC recruiting management couples, both full-time and part-time roles available. Ask us about our great employee perks and accommodation. Apply on https://sandmanhotels.prevueaps.com

General employment Resident Manager required for a quiet well maintained 60 suite apartment building in Dawson Creek. Duties to include leasing, rent collection and maintenance. Ideal for retired or semi retired couple. Please reply via email: pjwilljp@gmail.com Announcements

Save the Dates July 13, 5:00 pm to July 15, 2018 at 3:30 pm for the Annual Mile Zero Cruisers Summer Cruise weekend starts with Registration held at the Dawson Co-op. Bring down your pride and joy and register for the Summer Cruise Car Show weekend. All registrants will receive access to all weekend events as well as a chance to win prizes. Check in this paper for more details closer to the show!

LegaL/PubLic Notices

SUNDAYS: FAMILY TREE HELP - Peace Country Roots Group Meeting - Fourth Sunday of each Month at the CALVIN KRUK CENTRE in Dawson Creek 1:30pm

53806

General employment

Coming EvEnts

250-785-5631 classifieds@ahnfsj.ca

Burger King Fort St John is hiring Crew (Starting $12), Supervisors (Starting at $15), Assistant Manager (Starting at $17) and Managers (Starting $18.75). Previous experience an asset, but not necessary as Crew will be trained. Business management, training, schooling is an asset for Supervisors, assistant managers and Managers. Please send resumes to bkfsjco@gmail.com TRAFFIC CONTROL TRAINING BCCSA/WCB Certified FSJ: May 2 & 3, 5&6 PG: May 9 & 10, 12 & 13 1-866-737-2389 or roadsafetytcs.com Announcements

Memorial Service for the late

Sheena Lillico of Fort St. John will be held Saturday, May 5th at 2:00pm from the Fort St. John Cultural Center Conference Room. In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy can be made in Memory of Sheena to the Fort St. John Hospital Foundation. Condolences may be forwarded through www.hamresfuneral.com LegaL/PubLic Notices

52549

Classifieds

Book Your Ad Now!

LegaL/PubLic Notices

For hire: Caregiver to look after my children: 7 ear old girl & 1 year old boy. $12 per hour. 40 hours per week. Permanent Full-time. Work in employer’s home/94 Ave, Fort St John, BC. Completion of Secondary School, some college/ CEPEG/Vocational or technical training in child care or related field. 1 to 2 years experience supervision of children. Assist children on personal hygiene. Plan, prepare meals for children, participate in games, reading and may perform light housekeeping. Accomodation could be made available on a live-in basis at no cost. But not a condition of employment. Apply be email: herbert_barateta@yah oo.com

LegaL/PubLic Notices

THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018 B7

Classifieds For Sale MiSc

HealtH ServiceS

APPLY NOW: A $2,500 Penny Wise scholarship is available for a woman entering the Journalism Certificate Program at Langara College in Vancouver. Application deadline April 30, 2018. Send applications to fbula@langara.ca.

Big Big Big Sell Out everything must go. 10404-101Ave. 10pm-4pm

Get up to $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you or someone you know Have any of these Conditions? ADHD, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Cancer, COPD, Depression, Diabetes, Difficulty Walking, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowels, Overweight, Trouble Dressing...and Hundreds more. ALL Ages & Medical Conditions Qualify. CALL BRITISH COLUMBIA BENEFITS 1-(800)-211-3550 For Your Free No Obligation Information Package TODAY.

BUD HAYNES & WARD’S FIREARMS AUCTION. Saturday, April 28 at 10 AM. 11802-145 Street, Edmonton, Alberta. Milarm Co of Edmonton Firearms Dispersal Instructed by Receivers Grant Thornton LLP, Plus Estates. Over 800 lots - On-line bidding. To consign call Linda Baggaley 403-5971095, Brad 780-9408378. www.budhaynesauctions.com; www.wardsauctions.com FIREARMS AUCTION APRIL 21st, - Three Sessions Live And Online. Bidding Opens April 6th. www.switzersauction.com, TollFree 1-800-694-2609, Email: paul@switzersauction.com. Estates And Collections Wanted. Switzer’s - Canada’s #1 Firearms Auction.

LegaL/PubLic Notices

SAWMILLS from only $4,397 - MAKE MONEY & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. FREE Info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT 1800-567-0404 Ext:400OT.

Business services

Attention Ranchers! 3 kids want to buy and raise your orphan calves. Let us make your life easier! We can pick them up. Call or text 250-4018647

GET RESULTS! Post a classified in 98 newspapers in just a few clicks. Reach almost 2 million people for only $395 a week for 25-word text ad or $995 for small display ad. Choose your province or all across Canada. Best value. Save over 85% compared to booking individually. www.communityclassifieds.ca or 1866-669-9222.

LegaL/PubLic Notices

Stamp Collection for sale. 3 boxes. Call 250-783-5269 or 250-401-8005

Livestock

Arctic Duct Cleaning, Furnace & duct cleaning, Chimney sweep. 250-787-7217 (FSJ)

Business OppOrtunities

HIP OR KNEE REPLACEMENT? Arthritic Conditions/ COPD? Restrictions in Walking/ Dressing? Disability Tax Credit $2,000 Tax Credit $20,000 Refund. Apply Today For Assistance: 1844-453-5372.

LegaL/PubLic Notices

MATTHEW BEST TUMBLER RIDGE BC AMOUNT OWING $1837.50 FOR REPAIRS AND STORAGE ON A 2004 CHEV 2500 HD VIN # 1GCHK23154F166062 - VEHICLE HAS BEEN HERE SINCE AUGUST 30 2017 EMBASSY MAINTENANCE,135 COMMERCIAL PARK, TUMBLER RIDGE BC, VOC2W0 PHONE 250-242-3188 DATE OF SALE: MAY 3, 2018

LegaL/PubLic Notices CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer Employment/Licensing loss? Travel/Business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US Entry Waiver. Record Purge. File Destruction. Free Consultation 1-800-3472540. accesslegalmjf.com JUSTINE MARIE BISHEIMER WONOWON BC AMOUNT OWING $4108.73 FOR REPAIRS AND STORAGE ON A 1999 MERCEDES ML320 VIN # 4JGAB54EOXA096214 VEHICLE HAS BEEN HERE SINCE SEPTEMBER 21 2017 EMBASSY MAINTENANCE,135 COMMERCIAL PARK, TUMBLER RIDGE BC, VOC2W0 PHONE 250-242-3188 DATE OF SALE: MAY 3, 2018

LegaL/PubLic Notices

ApArtments/ Condos for

Land Act: Notice of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land

Take notice that Cornelius Wiebe from Prespatou, BC, has applied to the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (MFLNRO), Northeast Region, for an Agriculture Land Sale situated on Provincial Crown land located at Prespatou, BC, Peace River District. The Lands File for this application is 8015968 . Written comments concerning this application should be directed to Kimberly Cimini, Authorization Officer, Northeast Region, MFLNRO, at 100-10003110th Avenue, Fort St. John, BC V1J 6M7, (250) 787-3435. Comments will be received by MFLNRO up to May 24, 2018. MFLNRO may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at www.arfd.gov.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/index.jsp for more information and a map of the application area or send comments directly to: AuthorizingAgency.FortStJohn@gov.bc.ca A Government decision for this application is expected on or after May 24, 2018. Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions.

Lawn & Garden Dawson Creek Community Gardens Now accepting applications for garden plots for the 2018 season: 20’x30’ ground plots & 4’x12’ raised beds. Cost per plot $25.00 Contact: Marilyn: 250-7824592 or Rosalind: 250-782-6182.

ApArtments/ Condos for

Li-Car Management Group

We have a variety of apartments, town homes, executive homes, and duplexes for rent. To apply for these,please email reception@licar.ca or visit our website at www.licar.ca

Phone: 250-785-2662

ApArtments/ Condos for

Houses For rent

BIRCHVIEW MANOR Furnished and Unfurnished 1 Bedroom Suites. Adults Only, Senior Discount. Bus Stop at Front Door. 250-784-5817

For Rent 2 Bedroom house at Charlie Lake. Walking distance from store, Large parking for trucks. 250-785-5073 or 250-785-5070

SuiteS For rent For Rent 2bdr suite in Townhouse FSJ inc Dishwasher/laundry/utilities furniture as needed, small domestic pet ok. $1350. phone 250-789-9127 Steel BuildingS / granarieS STEEL BUILDING SALE...”BIG BLOW OUT SALE - ALL BUILDINGS REDUCED TO CLEAR!” 20X21 $5,560 23X23 $5,523 25x25 $6,896 32X33 $9,629. 33X33 $9,332. One End Wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-855212-7036.

LOCAL

NEWS!

www.alaskahighwaynews.ca

THIS IS WHERE YOUR AD SHOULD BE

LegaL/PubLic Notices

PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT

Hired Equipment Registra�on

Completed forms can be dropped oﬀ in person, mailed, faxed or emailed to the address below. Phone: (250) 784-3200 Peace River Regional District Fax: (250) 784-3201 Box 810, 1981 Alaska Avenue, Email: prrd.dc@prrd.bc.ca Dawson Creek, BC diverse. vast. abundant.

57546

The Peace River Regional District invites submissions from qualiﬁed contractors to be included on a registered list for Hired Equipment for short no�ce emergency services. Details for the Hired Equipment Registra�on and registra�on forms can be found on the Regional District’s website h�ps://prrd.bc.ca/category/tenders-rfps/.

NOTICE OF ALTERNATIVE APPROVAL PROCESS District of Taylor District of Taylor Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 823, 2018

Pursuant to the Community Charter and Local Government Act, notice is hereby given that the District of Taylor proposes to adopt Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 823, 2018 to fund construction of the Parcel Z Subdivision in an amount not to exceed $4,224,285.

Subject Property Parcel Z Section 35 Township 82 Range 18 West of the 6th Meridian Peace River District Plan 10253 Except Plan 16501 District of Taylor Council may proceed with the adoption of Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 823, 2018 unless, by the deadline set out below, at least 10% (98 electors) of the electors of the District indicate their opposition to the Bylaw. If 10% of electors are opposed to the bylaw, Council must obtain the assent of the electors before proceeding with Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 823, 2018. Elector Response Forms must be provided in the form established by Council and will be available at the District Office or at our website www.districtoftaylor.com. Copies of Elector Response Forms and the proposed bylaw are available Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding Statutory Holidays, at the District Office. For an Elector Response Form to be counted, the District of Taylor’s Corporate Officer must receive it no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, June 1, 2018 in any one of the following manners: • In person at 10007 – 100a Street, Taylor, BC (Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, excluding Statutory Holidays);

• Via mail to: Attention – Corporate Officer, Box 300, Taylor, BC, V0C 2K0; • Via fax at: Attention – Corporate Officer, 250-789-3543; or

• Via email attachment to tpennell@districtoftaylor.com with the subject heading: “Elector Response” The only persons entitled to sign the Elector Response Forms are the electors of the District of Taylor who meet the following criteria: Resident Electors (section 65 of the Local Government Act): 1. I am 18 years of age or older; 2. I am a Canadian citizen;

3. I have lived in British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before signing this elector response form; 4. I have lived in the Taylor for at least 30 days before signing this elector response form;

5. I am not disqualified from voting under the Local Government Act or any other enactment or otherwise disqualified by law from voting. Non-Resident Property Electors (section 66 of the Local Government Act) 1. I am 18 years of age or older; 2. I am a Canadian citizen;

3. I have lived in British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before signing this elector response form; 4. I am not entitled to vote as a resident elector in the District of Taylor for purposes of this matter;

5. I have been a registered owner of real property in the District of Taylor for at least 30 days before signing this elector response form;

6. I acknowledge that I may sign only one elector response form, regardless of the number of properties that I own in the District of Taylor; 7. I acknowledge that if there is more than one individual who is the registered owner of the property, only one of the individual owners may sign this elector response form in relation to the property, provided the non-resident property elector has the written consent of the number of individuals who, together with the person signing this elector response form, constitute a majority of the registered owners of the property (written consent must be attached, if applicable); 8. I acknowledge that the only persons who are registered owners of the real property are individuals who do not hold the property in trust for a corporation or another trust; 9. I am not disqualified from voting under the Local Government Act or any other enactment or otherwise disqualified by law from voting.

Special Delivery

Auctions

COLORADO BLUE SPRUCE: $0.99/each for a box of 180 ($178.20). Also full range of tree, shrub, and berry seedlings. Free shipping most of Canada. Growth guarantee. 1-866-873-3846 or TreeTime.ca.

Business services

R0011352381

Education

250-785-5631 classifieds@ahnfsj.ca

Book Your Ad Now!

IT’S A B Dominic RudOY y Lang Parents: Yvett & Josep hL Baby’s Weigh ang t: 7 lbs 13 ozs Length: 21 in Date: Mar. 1 ches 4, 2 Time: 5:43 a 018 Fort St. John m , BC

Drop off or mail your FREE birth announcement & baby’s photo to:

The Alaska Highway News, or email: compose@ahnfsj.ca

9916-98 St., Fort St. John V1J 3T8

Fort St. John Hospital Foundation Baby Bouquet Wall This is a wonderful way for family and friends to acknowledge these special miracles

ated in the t Wall is loc re Baby Bouque Hospital Birthing Cent hn Jo Fort St.

Your minimum donation of $125 to the FSJ Hospital Foundation will not only purchase a flower petal, but the money raised will also go towards much needed medical equipment that will help to provide the best healthcare and service possible.

Ph: 250.261.7563 | email: fsjhf@northernhealth.ca

www.fsjhospitalfoundation.ca

B8 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2018

Alaska Highway News Reader Survey 2018

This survey is part of an effort to build a stronger relationship with our communities, learn more about their reading habits, and build a better news organization heading into our 75th year of publishing in Fort St. John and the North Peace.

SECTION 1

Tell us a little bit about yourself… Where do you live? o o o o o o o

Fort St. John Taylor Charlie Lake Hudson’s Hope Northern Rockies Regional Municipality First Nation, please specify: Rural area, please specify:

What is your age? o o o o o o

Under 18 18 to 25 25 to 39 40 to 55 56 to 55 65 and older

What is your gender? o o o

Female Male Transgender

What is your income? o o o o o

Under $25,000 $25,000 to $50,000 $50,000 to $75,000 $75,000 to $100,000 $100,000 and over

SECTION 2

Tell us about your news reading and viewing habits… How much time do you spend reading and watching the news on any given day? o o o o

Less than 30 minutes 30 minutes to an hour One to two hours More than two hours

What sources do you use to find out information about your community? Check all that apply. o o o o o o o o o

Alaska Highway News CBC Daybreak North CJDC TV News Energeticcity.ca Shaw TV News Facebook Other websites (Town Wall, FSJ Now, government websites, etc.) Radio Smartphone app

What is your go-to source for local breaking news? o o o o o o o

Alaska Highway News CBC Daybreak North CJDC TV News Energeticcity.ca Shaw TV News Radio Other

What is your go-to source for local in-depth news, opinion, and analysis? o o o o o o o

Alaska Highway News CBC Daybreak North CJDC TV News Energeticcity.ca Shaw TV News Radio Other

What is your go-to source for community news features? o o o o o o o

Alaska Highway News CBC Daybreak North CJDC TV News Energeticcity.ca Shaw TV News Radio Other

What sources do you use to find out information about BC and Canada? o o o o o o o o

Vancouver Sun The Province CBC News Globe and Mail National and/or Financial Post Global News CTV News Other

Do you subscribe to any print newspaper or magazine? If yes, which publications?

Do you subscribe to any digital news publications? If yes, which publications?

SECTION 3

Lifestyles 1 2

How do you access the Alaska Highway News?

Local charity fundraising 1 2 3 4

Local sports 1 2

Opinion/editorial/letters 1 2 3 4

Travel and tourism 1 2 3

When it comes to reading the Alaska Highway News… o o o

Weekly print edition alaskahighwaynews.ca website via social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)

Tell us briefly why you read the Alaska Highway News. How does it fit into your local news reading habits compared to local online and TV news?

The Alaska Highway News is a trusted source for local news and information. o o

Yes No

The Alaska Highway News is an essential and vital part of the community. o Yes o No How many of the last four print editions of the Alaska Highway News have you read? o o o o o

1 2 3 4 None

How much time do you spend reading our weekly print edition? o o o o

15 minutes or less 15 to 30 minutes 30 minutes to an hour More than an hour

How much time do you spend reading our website daily? o o o o

Do you regularly submit in your club/ organization news? o o

Yes No

What features do you read regularly in the newspaper?

15 minutes or less 15 to 30 minutes 30 minutes to an hour More than an hour

Yes No

What columnists do you read? Check all that apply. o Bob Snyder (Chews the News, humour) o Judy Kucharuk (Desk of the Green-eyed Girl, life) o Jeff Richert (Community Views, politics and current affairs) o Matt Preprost (Editorially Speaking, local affairs) o Tom Summer (Court Docket, crime) o Angela Mary Griffin (Peace Reflections, faith) o Dillon Giancola (The Dill Zone, local sports) o Edwina Nearhood (Life at Ground Zero, real estate) o Stephenie Sutherland (Health Hacks, life and wellness) o Don Pettit (Watt’s Happening, energy) o Rick Koechl and Mike Kroecher (Two Old Guys With Issues, energy and current affairs) o Bob Zimmer (MP Report, federal politics) o Richard Neufeld (Senator’s Report, federal politics) o Various veterinarians (North Peace Creature Feature, pet wellness)

Are you a member of a local community club/ organization? o o

o o o o o o o o o o o

Weather outlook Gas watch Special Delivery baby notices Coffee corner puzzles Horoscopes/Dear Annie Pro Golf Weekly Update Pro Racing This Week 4-H Community Club Update Classifieds & Obituaries Movie Listings House of the week

What issues in the community do you think are not getting enough coverage by local media?

SECTION 4

Diving into our newspaper…. When you read the Alaska Highway News, what section do you read first? o o o o o

Local News Opinion/Op-Ed Business Sports Arts & Culture

What local news topics interest you the most? Please rank them from 1 (least interested) to 5 (most interested). Circle Number Arts and culture 1 2 3

Business and economy 1 2 3 4

City hall news 1 2 3

Courts and crime 1 2 3

Community events 1 2 3

What Alaska Highway News products do you read? Check all that apply. o o o o o o o o

Federal and provincial politics 1 2 3 4 5 Health 1 2

History 1 2

Thank you for your input!

We’re offering weekly incentives to readers who fill out the survey. Please provide your name and phone/email address to be included in our draw. Drop off completed surveys to our office at 9916 98TH AVE, FOrT ST. JOHN, BC

People’s Choice Awards High School Graduation Book Holiday Song Book CKNL Fort St. John Trade Show Century 21/Remax Real Estate Guides Pipeline News North Northern Horizon Angler’s Atlas

Which of the following Alaska Highway News events have you attended? o o o

Human interest/community news features 1 2 3 4 5 Investigative reporting 1 2 3 4

What types of columnists would you like to see added?

If you could add a feature to the Alaska Highway News, what would it be?

Education and school board 1 2 3 4 5 Environment 1 2

What type of reporting do you want the Alaska Highway News to focus on?

What type of events would you like to see the Alaska Highway News organize and host for the community? o o o o

NAME: PHONE : EMAIL:

Federal election forum 2015 Amnesty International Missing/Murdered Indigenous Women forum 2016 Provincial election forum 2016

Election forums Current affairs panels Arts and culture events Sports events