AHN JUNE 20 2019 by Alaska Highway News

THURSDAY, june 20, 2019 Vol. A-75, No. 25

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

$1.50 inc. gst.

alaskahighwaynews.ca

“The Only Newspaper in the World That Gives a Tinker’s Dam About the North Peace.”

trans mountain approved

skate official awarded

take home theatre history

news A3

SPORTS B1

arts A16

Grads told to pursue their dreams, work co-operatively matt preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

When You Are Out in the Field, Time IS Money. QUALITY PARTS, EXPERT SERVICE!

matt preprost photo

Northern Lights College 2019 Valedictorian Sana Gill gives her address, June 14, 2019.

HoursMon-Fri: 8am - 5pm Sat: 8am - Noon

Planners unveil re-imagined 100 Street matt preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

9224 100 Street, Fort St. John, BC (250) 785-0463

After Hours - Leave Message

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

Urban planners unveiled their ideas for a re-imagined 100 Street through downtown Fort St. John on Saturday, ending a week-long series of public workshops that will set the stage for a major rebuild starting in 2020. Three dozen residents, as well as city councillors and administrators, turned out to the cultural centre to hear from the team at MODUS and Urban Systems. Mayor Lori Ackerman said the concepts come after nearly a decade of work trying to kickstart downtown revitalization, and is a chance to address what developers have been asking for to help facilitate business and investment. “This has not been a, pardon my English, ‘for s**ts and giggles, let’s see what we can do’,” Ackerman said. “This has been a very planned and principled approach to our downtown that is going to create an area that is focused on people. 100th and 100th used to be the highway — stress the ‘used to be the highway.’ It’s not anymore. “We have got what I think is a future for our community,” she said. The city plans to start tearing up 100 Street in phases in 2020 to replace underground utilities that have reached the end of their service life. For the rebuild of the road, planners have designed what they call an “optimized” threelane roadway that will see fewer traffic lanes, expanded multi-use sidewalks, and improved public spaces along a 10-block stretch of the road between 96 and 105 avenues. They have proposed a street that will see two primary travel lanes — one each for north and southbound traffic — two parking lanes on either

modus

Birds eye view of 100 Street redesign.

side of the street, and a median left-hand turning lane that will also serve as space for snow storage in the winter. The city saw 150 people attend an open house and give input on the project in May, with another 370 residents chiming in through surveys. Planners also held 11 workshops with downtown stakeholders, said Rob Barrs, the principal of MODUS Planning, Design and Engagement. Streets serve two purposes that are in tension with one another, Barr said. One is to move people as a thoroughfare; second, especially in the case of downtowns, is to be a destination and place where people want to go to eat, shop,

and gather, Barrs said. “We have to think of the balance there between the street as a thoroughfare and the street as a destination,” he said. “Allan Jacobs, one of the great urbanists, talks about a great street as a place where everybody can have something, but not everyone can have everything. And so everyone can a little bit of something in this street: It can get you from A to B, it can provide those opportunities to celebrate, to shop, to gather. We’re always balancing those different needs and uses.” See 100 STREET on A3

PAVING % 100 Canadian Owned

Residential • Commercial • Industrial Roads • Driveways • Parking Lots

The Northern Lights College Class of 2019 donned their gowns for convocation in Fort St. John on Friday. There were 120 students who graduated from the Fort St. John campus this year. Sana Gill, a business management graduate, was the class valedictorian. Gill, an international student, told her peers they should be proud of their educational accomplishments, quoting Kristian Kan, Denzel Washington, and Michael Josephson throughout her address. Keep dreaming and make reality happen, she said. “Back in 2015, while I was pursuing my bachelor of commerce degree at the college, I, like many international students sitting here, was making plans to come to Canada to explore this beautiful country,” Gill said. “During this planning stage, I encountered many people who supported me and just as many who challenged me. However, I strongly believe if you’re focused and determined on what you want in your life, you certainly will get it. This is the reason I’m standing here today in front of you.” Sabrina Benmars was awarded the Governor General’s Academic Medal for graduating with the school’s the highest grade point average at 4.22. Benmars graduated with a diploma in early childhood education and care, acquired online and in French in partnership with College Educacentre. Chief Kwarakwante Chief Calliou was recognized with an honourary associate of arts degree for his contributions to the college and community. Calliou, a former NLC student, is a hereditary chief of Kelly Lake Cree Nation south of Dawson Creek. He maintains his support of the college and is actively involved in campus activities. Calliou said he was honoured to be recognized, and reminded students to work hard and co-operatively with one another in their pursuits outside the classroom. “You will have the opportunity to create stories out of the fabric and fibres that weave us together like a blanket, and they are what people will remember us by when we’re gone,” Calliou told the graduates. Also at the convocation, Mayor Lori Ackerman presented Northern Lights College board chair Tyler Holte with a sign commemorating the name change of the East Bypass Road to Northern Lights Drive.

FREE ESTIMATES

250.719.0686

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL GRAVEL SALES AND DELIVERY Serving Dawson Creek, Chetwynd, Fort St. John & Surrounding Areas

33490

A2 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Local News

contents A3 A6 A9 A11 A13 A15 B1 B6

News Opinion Business Court Docket Arts & Culture Coffee Corner Sports Classifieds

this week’s flyers Jysk Rona Safeway No Frills Wal-Mart The Brick Dark Coat Save-On Foods Home Hardware Shoppers Drug Mart

GAS WATCH KNOWBEFOREYOUGO

Prom capped off with new car matt preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

It was prom night in Fort St. John Saturday night, and one lucky student went home with keys to a new car. A 2017 Honda Civic LX was put up for grabs for students attending prom — but, only students that stayed to the very end. And, at the end of the night, it was Brody Hunt who won the prize. It was a new twist to prom festivities, organizers say. “Prom was boring, kids were leaving. They didn’t have anything to look forward to at prom,” said Tammy Mackenzie, one of the organizers. “Yes, they got to dress up and that was the highlight of it, but there was nothing keeping them there. We just thought, how do we keep them there? Well, let’s give them a big prize at the end of the night.” The prom committee sold raffle tickets and lined up sponsors to secure the car prize,

which was supplied by Driving Force. With the help of sponsors, the car had a complete mechanical inspection, received a new black cherry paint job, and came equipped with a new windshield, new tires and wheels, window tinting, and a brand new sound system. “It’s a great community event, a great way to get young people to not drink and drive,” said Steve Pettifer, branch manager at Driving Force. The names of ten graduates were drawn at midnight at prom. The names were then drawn again in reverse order to determine the winner to build up anticipation. Last week, student Nathan Zinck said he and his peers were excited for the prize. “If you win, you’re set. This will last you ten, twenty years. If you take care of it, it’ll last you awhile,” Zinck said. “You can go to school, focus on your priorities and not have to worry about paying for your vehicle.”

cassia lawrence photography

North Peace Secondary graduate Brody Hunt is hoisted in the air in celebration after winning a new car at prom, June 15, 2019.

Trans Mountain pipeline expansion re-approved

environmental and regulatory conditions Sons in the Surerus Murphy Joint Venshould be approved. Earlier this month, ture, was selected to build 180 kilometres the federal government wrapped up exten- of pipeline between Black Pines and MerDawson Creek 126.9 The federal government announced ded consultations with indigenous groups ritt. Fort St. John’s Macro Industries and France’s Spiecapag have a joint venture seits re-approval of the Trans Mountain ordered by the courts. lected to build 85 kilometres of pipeline in pipeline expansion Tuesday, with plans to Trudeau said he is sympathetic to conFort St. John 129.9 put shovels back in the ground this concerns about the environment and the need the Coquihalla-Hope area. The contracts are valued in the hundreds struction season. to transition to cleaner sources of energy, B.C. Average 139.8 The long-awaited decision to reapprove but says that in order to fund that trans- of millions of dollars. Shares in Macro Enthe contentious project comes nine ition, Canada needs to take advantage of terprises closed at $4.30 on Tuesday. Alberta Average “This is good news for B.C., Alberta, and 101.4 months after the Federal Court of Appeal its natural resources while they are still t St. John, BC - 7 Day Forecast - Environment Canada ripped up the original federal approval, needed.https://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/bc-78_metric_e.html As such, the Liberals will require all of Canada,” Peace River North MLA Dan citing incomplete Indigenous consulta- that every dollar in federal revenue coming Davies said in a statement. “It is a shame Saskatchewan Avg. 117.1 tions and a faulty environmental review. from the project be reinvested in clean en- that the BC NDP government has been constantly fighting this critical piece of Trudeau said the project will help to solve ergy and green technology. Manitoba Average a core economic challenge for Canada, That includes an estimated $500 million national infrastructure. And to what cost? 112.4 which relies on the U.S. to buy most of its a year in new annual corporate tax reven- This is a good day for all of us!” Premier John Horgan was expected to energy resources, often at large discounts. ues once the pipeline is in service, as well Ontario Average 116.5 > > from Home > Environment and natural resourcesexpansion Weather Localthe forecasts The pipeline’s will information create thou- > as Weather any revenues promised sale of speak to Ottawa’s decision later Tuesday, sands of middle class jobs across Canada, the entire expanded pipeline back to the after the News went to print. > Quebec British AverageColumbia 122.8 Trudeau said. The existing Trans Mountain pipeline is private sector. Trudeau says construction will restart a batched pipeline than can move a variety “We want good middle class jobs now, and good middle class jobs for our kids,” this construction season, but there is no of petroleum products, including crude New Brunswick Avg 116.9 Trudeau said. “We need to create wealth specific date yet. Trans Mountain Canada oil and refined fuels. With the expansion, t Nelson, BC - 7 Day Forecast - Environment https://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/bc-83_metric_e.html today toCanada invest in the future.” will have to apply a second time for all the a new, second line would be dedicated Observed at: Fort St. John Airport 10:00 AM MST Tuesday 18 June 2019 Nova Scotia Avg Current Conditions 109.3 The government bought the pipeline necessary federal, provincial and municip- strictly to heavy crude oil from Alberta, which could free up the existing batched and expansion project in August 2018, al permits before breaking ground. after first approving the twinning in 2016 Two Fort St. John Wind: pipeline contractors PEI Average Condition: Partly Cloudy Temperatu… 16.4°C SW 36 gust 49line for more refined fuels and potentially 114.5 only to be stymied by legal challenges. have been selected to build nearly one- more crude for the Parkland refinery. Pressure: 100.8 kPa Dew point: 4.5°C km/h The National Energy Board released its third of the 1,100-kilometre expansion Newfoundland Avg. 119.6 Tendency: Falling report on the expansion Humidity: 45%southern B.C. Visibil… 81 km through — with files from reconsideration > > Business in Vancouver, which shares a 50% in February, finding the project remains > Surerus Home > Environment and natural resources Weather information Weather Pipeline, Local forecasts CAD$ per litre, prices as of June 18. Canadian Press in the national interest and imposing 156 stake with London-based J. Murphy & > GasBuddy.com Source: British Columbia matt preprost

Prevailing Prices

editor@ahnfsj.ca

Fort St. John, BC

16°C

Fort Nelson, BC

WEATHER & ROAD REPORT

Forecast Current Conditions Tue 18 Jun

Wed

Please Please

newspaper.

Mainly sunny

30%

Chance of showers

Forecast 1x2 Tonight notice Night General

The Tue contents of this Wed newspaper are protected by 18 Jun 19 Jun copyright and may be used only for personal non-commercial purposes.

9°C

Thu

Condition: Mostly Cloudy 20 Jun 19 Jun Pressure: 100.5 kPa Tendency: Falling

17°C recycle this newspaper 19°C recycle this 13°C

Forecast issued: 5:00 AM MST Tuesday 18 June 2019 Observed Nelson Airport 10:00 AM MST Tuesday 18 June 2019 FORTat:ST.Fort JOHN

6°C

12°C

Periods of rain

Night Thu 20 Jun

Fri Sat Temperatu…22 Jun 17.3°C 21 Jun

Dew point: 9.5°C Humidity: 60%

Please recycle 19°C 20°C this newspaper.

HIGHWAY CONDITIONS PEACE REGION

Sun Mon Wind: W 15 km/h 23 Jun 24 Jun

Visibil… 32 km

19°C

18°C

30%

40%

Sun 23 Jun

Mon 24 Jun

FOR CURRENT ROAD Sunny Sunny Chance of Chance of CONDITIONS showers showers IN THE PEACE REGION, Forecast issued: 5:00 AM MST Tuesday 18 June 2019 2x1 Night FORT NELSONNight Night PLEASE SEE THE LINK BELOW.

Fri 21 Jun

Sat 22 Jun

http://www.drivebc.ca/

#listView&district=Peace 9°C

8°C

10°C

30% 30% All other rights are reserved 60% Partly cloudy Chance of Chance of Clear Cloudy periods Chance 14°C 15°C 23°C 24°C 22°C of 20°C and commercial use is 7°C showers showers showers prohibited. To make any use of 30% 60% Please this newspaper. this material must first Rain Rain yourecycle Cloudy Sunny Sunny Chance of Chance of obtain the permission of the Today Sunny. Becoming a mix of sun and cloud this afternoon. Risk of a thunderstorm late showers showers owner of the copyright.2x1.5 thisNight afternoon. Wind west 40 km/h gusting to 60. High 19. UV index Tonight Night Night Night Night 6 or high.

WeatherPhone

Partly cloudy. Risk of a thunderstorm early this evening. Wind west 30Environment km/h gusting For Tonight further information contact Canada Local the managing editor to at 50. Low 9. Weather Forecasts

http://www.drivebc.ca

(250)-785-7669

250-785-5631 Wed, 19 Jun Becoming cloudy in the morning. 30 percent chance of showers late in the afternoon. 7°C

7°C 9°C Wind southwest 308°C km/h. High 13.9°C UV index 3 or10°C moderate. Please recycle this newspaper. Cloudy percent chance ofClear showers. Low 6.periods Periods ofwith rain 60Cloudy periods Cloudy Cloudy periods

Men’s & Women’s ARIAT FIRE RESISTANT Clothing NightRain

3x1 Periods of rain. High 12. Increasing cloudiness. beginning late this morning. Risk of a thunderstorm this Cloudy with 30 percentRain chance of showers. Low 9. afternoon. Fog patches dissipating this morning. Local amount 20 mm over northern sections. Wind becoming northwest 20 km/h gusting to 40 this morning. Temperature steady near 14. UV index 2 or low. 10520 - 100 Avenue, Fort St John, BC Tonight Rain. Risk• Ph: of a250-785-5888 thunderstorm early this evening. Amount 15 to 25 mm. Wind 2019-06-18, 10:41 a.m. Fax: 250-785-5338 Monday to Friday 6am - 6pm Saturday 9amto - 5pm northwest 30• km/h gusting 50. Low 7. Sunday 10am - 4pm Thu, 20 Jun Today Night

Please recycle this newspaper.

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019 A3

LOCAL NEWS

Mill curtailments announced in Fort St. John, Taylor Windsor Plywood MATT PREPROST editor@ahnfsj.ca

Louisiana Pacific will indefinitely shut down operations at the Peace Valley OSB mill in Fort St. John. The shut down is indefinite, putting 190 workers out of work. Company officials were in town June 13 to deliver the news to employees. “Despite efforts by our Peace Valley team to reduce costs over the past several months, this decision is necessary to support the optimization of our OSB business in challenging market conditions,” said Jason Ringblom, LP Executive Vice President for OSB, in a statement. “Declining housing starts, high wood costs and associated cost pressures require us to take this action that aligns with our performance driven strategy.” Mark Morrison, LP’s director of corporate affairs, says total housing starts are down 13% from a year ago as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau, with commodity OSB prices down more than 35% compared to this time last year. “The action that LP is taking now is driven by poor market conditions and not a reflection on our team at

Peace Valley who have been hard at work looking at ways to reduce cost for several months,” Morrison said. Work will reportedly continue at the mill until the shut down, effective August 9, employees say. Employees say they will be paid through until early September, and then receive a severance package based on their years of service. The mill has an annual capacity of 800 million square feet. It is the city’s largest taxpayer, paying $1.05 million in property taxes last year. “We are deeply shocked by the announcement today by Louisiana-Pacific Corporation, and share in the pain of this devastating news for our community and the families affected,” acting mayor Gord Klassen said in a statement. “Council has reached out to Louisiana-Pacific to offer support, as it always has, in getting the plant reopened and our residents back working.” Pulp mill down five weeks The same day, Canfor said it would curtail operations at its pulp mill in Taylor from June 29 through August 5.

The company cited weak market conditions and short-term fibre constraints resulting from industry-wide sawmill curtailments in the B.C. Interior for its decision. The curtailment will reduce Canfor Pulp’s production output by approximately 25,000 tonnes, the company said. The announcements are the latest blow to B.C.’s struggling forestry sector, MLA Dan Davies says. The bad economic news follows on the heels of announcements this week that Norbord will indefinitely curtail its OSB mill in 100 Mile House, and that Canfor will curtail operations at all but one of its sawmills in B.C. “This latest shutdown will put at least 190 workers out of work and will affect hundreds of additional indirect jobs. My community simply can’t afford this loss,” Davies said. “For months my fellow MLAs and I have raised concerns about the mounting crisis in the forest industry and for months our concerns have been ignored. It’s time for John Horgan and the NDP to step up, take action and offer tangible solutions to address the crisis situation.”

GONE E V A H E W SS! PAPERLE CHECK OUT OUR ONLINE FLYER AT:

WWW.WINDSORPLYWOOD.COM/FORT-ST-JOHN 10903 TAHLTAN ROAD, FORT ST. JOHN PHONE: 250-785-1435 · TOLL FREE: 1-800-661-9663

19075

LAW SOCIETY SEEKS HEARING PANEL APPLICANTS The Law Society of British Columbia seeks lawyers and members of the public who are not lawyers to serve on its hearing panels. The Law Society regulates the legal profession in the public interest by ensuring that the people of BC are served by lawyers who meet high standards of learning, competence and professional conduct. Law Society hearing panels hear cases related to allegations of discipline violations and incompetence by lawyers. Panels also conduct hearings on the character and fitness of applicants for enrolment in the admission program and for call and admission as new lawyers. Review boards hear appeals from hearing panel decisions. For details and to submit an application, visit www.lawsociety.bc.ca (“News”), or contact tribunals@lsbc.org.

540101

ARE YOU LIVING WITH PAIN? ARE YOU LOOKING FOR:

Sherri Mytopher leads the MS Walk in Fort St. John, May 26, 2019. More than 125 supporters came out to the walk on May 26, raising more than $29,000 to help advance research and programs for those living with multiple sclerosis in Canada. “This annual event is so critically important. It is not only a source of funding for accelerating research but also a time where those living with MS can see they have a community of support around them,” said Tania Vrionis, president of the MS Society of Canada, Alberta & NWT and BC & Yukon Divisions. There are 11 Canadians diagnosed with MS every day, and around 900 people living with the disease in Northern B.C. DAVE LUENEBERG PHOTO

• Someone to talk to about your pain or that of a loved one? • Information on managing your pain? • Support finding resources in your area?

ASK US FOR HELP if the resource exists we will find it for you – for free! Call Monday to Friday 9 AM – 4 PM.

1 844 880 PAIN (7246) supportline@painbc.ca painbc.ca/supportline

Where to recycle? Check the BC RECYCLEpEdia 604-RECYCLE (732-9253) 1-800-667-4321 Recycling council of B.c. MeMBeR

1OO STREET FROM A1

Chad Carlstrom with Urban Systems said planners took a deep dive into functional considerations in the redesign of the street. That included accommodating the needs of city infrastructure, which includes the replacement asbestos concrete and wood stave pipes installed in the 1940s, with larger PVC pipes that can support new construction and more people downtown, and can handle changes the city expects to see in the coming decades with climate change, he said. “This is some of the oldest underground infrastructure that the city has,” Carlstrom said. “We’re not only replacing the in-

frastructure, we’re enhancing it as we do it.” For example, an improved water system can provide better fire protection to downtown buildings, and handle heavier storms in the future, he said. “We know the rain events here are going to occur with higher frequency and greater intensity, so more water more frequently,” Carlstrom said. Planners were mindful of winter operations and worked with city staff in the public works and grounds departments to maintain snow clearing and storage space, Carlstrom said. Ian Roth, a transportation engineer, said traffic models show

the changes to the street can handle current volumes, and will help to calm traffic speeds down to a consistent and realistic 50 km/h. One of the highest recorded speeds on 100 Street was recently clocked in at 99 km/h, he said. “One of the biggest concerns we’ve heard through the process is how do you handle the existing traffic volumes on 100 Street because it has historically been the main route through town,” Roth said. “Clearly, the street is currently designed to support high (speeds). It’s not a very safe pedestrian condition.” There are several improvements proposed, including traffic signals at 98 Street and 100

Avenue, and at the 97 Avenue, 99 Avenue, and 103 Avenue intersections at 100 Street. Work is ongoing to develop a mitigation plan for businesses that will be impacted by the construction. Construction is expected to begin in 2020 between 96 and 98 avenues, and the city plans to rebuild the street in two to three block sections each year up to 105 Avenue. Work is also ongoing to develop strategies that will encourage businesses and building owners to reinvest in their spaces, and encourage more people to live and shop downtown. “Downtown vitality, aside from design, comes down to two

things: tenant retention and tenant attraction. In that, there are roles for the city, there are roles for partner groups, there are roles for businesses, there’s roles for community groups, there’s roles for the chamber of commerce,” said Justin Barer, an economic development specialist with Urban Systems. “Understanding how all these intersecting groups weave together and who’s driving it, who’s leading it, this all needs to be fleshed out as part a broader retail and entertainment and service strategy for the downtown, to make sure that this generational investment is the catalyst that we hope it will be.”

Supporting Our Communities

R0011352385

ROAD CONSTRUCTION • ASPHALT PAVING AGGREGATE SALES • READY MIX CONCRETE SALES PORTABLE ASPHALT PLANTS AND CONCRETE PLANTS Servicing: OIL & GAS • MINING INDUSTRIAL • COMMERCIAL • MUNICIPAL • AIRPORTS

CONSTRUCTION LTD.

TERUS CONSTRUCTION LTD.

A4 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Local News

Chief gives rousing economic speech matt preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

First Nations people were the first entrepreneurs in Canada and need to get back to being competitive, renowned Osoyoos Indian Band Chief Clarence Louie told an audience in Fort St. John last Wednesday. Louie was in town as a guest of the Chamber of Commerce to talk about his more than three decades of experience as chief and the economic development he has led on the Osoyoos reserve. “I love what I do, I love creating jobs,” Louie said. “I want to see my people working, I dont believe in welfare; welfare’s not indian.” Throughout his hour-long keynote at the Lido Theatre, Louie was gregarious and well-spoken, drawing much laughter and applause as he shared the insights and wisdom he’s gained over the years as chief, and the work he’s done to create jobs on his reserve. Today, the Osoyoos territory is home to thousands of acres of vineyards and two golf courses, multiples resorts, and an exclusive members-only Grand Prix inspired racecar track. Unemployment on the reserve is less than 3%, and the band generates nearly $30 million a year through its various businesses. First Nations were a competitive people long before English and French settlers arrived, Louie said, racing horses and canoes, and playing bone games and hand games with one another. “We got to get back to that competitiveness,” he said. A few years ago, human remains were found in a popular provincial park nearby the reserve. The remains dated back 1,400 years and the grave was filled with artefacts that weren’t from the region, Louie said. “Some of the stuff found in that grave site didn’t come from the Okanagan. It didn’t come from our territory. It came from the southern states,” Louie said. “Archaeological evidence has proven that the first entrepreneurs of this land, the first business people, were the first nations. We had trade routes stretching far south, far east, west, north. We had historical trade routes that are now

called highways, historical trade routes now called rivers.” There have been more than 1,000 jobs created on the reserve through partnerships to build up its economy, largely focused on tourism, and at last count there are 35 different First Nations groups from across Western Canada nd the territories represented on the reserve, Louie said. “Every time I see a native on my rez working, I go and ask them, how did you wind up here, why did you leave your territory?” Louie said. “It’s always the same reason: ‘I didn’t want to raise my family on welfare. Where I come from there are no jobs. Where I come from there are only band office jobs. I read about Osoyoos in the newspaper, I saw it on TV. I wanted to get away from that dependency cycle and I wanted to come somewhere that’s independent, where people are expected to work’.” Money isn’t a bad word, Louie said, and it has to come from somewhere — economic development. “Depending on Indian Affairs is a failed formula. No government has ever properly provided funding for any of our programs and services on the reserve. I don’t care if they’re Conservative, Liberal, NDP — they never have and they never will,” Louie said. “I don’t care who the national chief is, and how much he hollers and screams. There’s never enough funding for our programs on the reserve. That’s why I tell my people we got to start making our own money. Money is not a bad word. We got to make start making our own momey, creating our own jobs that don’t depend on government funding.” Economic development allows the band to take care of its needs, and lets chief and council put their money where there mouth is, Louie said. “Caring costs money, even spirituality,” he said. “Every ceremony we do back home costs money, it’s not for free. Every time we have a salmon ceremony, it costs money. Our winter dances, they cost money. The sweat houses we have, that costs thousands of dollars.”

matt preprost photo

Chief Clarence Louie speaks in Fort St. John, June 12, 2019.

Senator Neufeld says farewell to Senate

SENATE OF CANADA

matt preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

Senator Richard Neufeld is set to retire from Canada’s Red Chamber and nearly four decades public service in November, and on Tuesday he delivered his farewell remarks. Neufeld, appointed to the Senate in 2009, will retire on November 6, his 75th birthday. Prior to that, Neufeld was the MLA for Peace River North from 1991 to 2008, and served as B.C.’s energy minister for eight years. Neufeld is also a former councillor and mayor of Fort Nelson. In his speech, Neufeld thanks his fam-

ily and colleagues, and spoke about how his dream to drive a truck morphed into starting his own business and then into a life of politics. “My road to the Senate has been a bit unusual. When I look back at my 16-yearold self who thought he had life all figured out, I can’t help but think of my parents who I hope are looking down on me with pride,” Neufeld said. “Fifty-eight years later, I can tell you now that I did not have life all figured out and still don’t. But I did my best to uphold the values my parents instilled in me, which guided me through my personal and professional lives.”

CITY BEAT

Updates from June 10, 2019 Council Mee�ngs CAMA AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Council recognized staff who worked on the project that was awarded the Canadian Associa�on of Municipal Administrator’s (CAMA) Award of Excellence in the category of ‘Professional Development Award for Popula�on between 20,001 and 100,000’ for the City’s Learning and Development Plan. LONG SERVICE AWARD Council presented a Long Service Award to Rashid Hasan, Director of Human Resources, in recogni�on of his 5 years of service as an employee of the City of Fort St. John. DECLARATION Council made a statement of recogni�on for the 100th Anniversary of Canadian Ins�tute of Planners. The declara�on marked the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Canadian Ins�tute of Planners, a na�onal organiza�on whose members contribute to the planning, development and protec�on of land across the country. Professional planners assist municipali�es by helping to ensure that our land and communi�es are healthy, vibrant and accessible to everyone. CEMETERY FEES At the Commi�ee of the Whole mee�ng, Council was provided with a presenta�on regarding an update to cemetery fees. The presenta�on included a robust analysis of cemetery fees and charges. The current Cemetery Regula�on and Maintenance Bylaw No. 1333, 1997 outlines fees and charges which were last updated in 2009. The five principles used to consider and update the fees were Transparency, Service Efficiency, Public Engagement, Actual Cos�ng and Benefits. The presenta�on compared Fort St. John’s cemetery fees and charges to average fees and charges from four comparable communi�es. In rela�on to comparable communi�es, Council determined that the City of Fort St. John’s current fees and charges are low. Addi�onally increases in maintenance costs as well as capital upgrades, as part of the Cemetery Master Plan, were considered in the fee update. At the Regular Council mee�ng, Council approved an increase to the current cemetery fees to meet the comparable community average in 2020, followed by an annual increase of 5% plus CPI (approximately 2%) for 2021 and beyond. Council directed staff to present Cemetery Regula�on and Maintenance Bylaw No. 2433, 2019, inclusive of the approved cost increases at the June 24, 2019 Regular Council mee�ng for the first three readings. DEVELOPMENT VARIANCE PERMITS Hearing no comments from the audience, Council approved Development Variance Permit No. DVP2019-001 – Canadian Tire Signage (9716 Old Fort Road) and Development Variance Permit No. DVP2019-002 – Canadian Tire Fencing Height (9716 Old Fort Road). These permits allow for an increase to the maximum sign area and fencing height permi�ed by City bylaws at the Canadian Tire development at 9716 Old Fort Road.

UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS A Commi�ee of the Whole mee�ng is tenta�vely scheduled for Monday June 24, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. The Regular Council Mee�ng will follow at 3:00 p.m. The mee�ngs will be held in City Hall Council Chambers and the public is welcome to a�end. With the support of:

540105

www.fortstjohn.ca

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019 A5

Local News

city hall

• Rashid Hasan was recognized with a five-year service award. Hasan is the city’s director of human resources, and came to Fort St. John in June 2014 after working for municipalities in Alberta and Saskatchewan. • Coun. Gord Klassen has been elected to the board of directors for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. Klassen will represent the city as well as other B.C. municipalities on the national board.

news in brief Highlights from the city council meeting held Monday, June 10, 2019: Cemetery fee hike approved Council voted to increase cemetery fees starting in 2020. The city will raise fees to be in line with average pricing in comparable nearby communities next year, and then raise fees 5% plus the cost of inflation annually between 2021 and 2025. It’s the first increase in a decade as demand for cemetery space and services in the city continues to grow. The cost of an adult plot will rise from $400 to $670 in 2020, not including other fees; the cost for a columbarium niche will rise from $100 to $220. Coun. Gord Klassen declared a conflict of interest as he works at a local funeral home and did not vote. An updated city’s cemetery bylaw and fee schedule will be drafted and presented for

Proclamations

matt preprost photo

Rashid Hasan with city councillors, who recognized Hasan with a five year long service award, June 10, 2019.

formal approval month.

later

this

Other business • Council wants to a hold a public forum to discuss the 231 recommendations coming from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Council directed staff to pre-

pare a report on the costs and logistics involved in hosting the forum with neighbouring First Nations. “What can we do as a community to address (those recommendations),” Mayor Lori Ackerman said. • Council approved two development variance permits for the new Canadian Tire development to allow for increased signage sizes and the

Highlights from Fort St. John’s 2018 annual report matt preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

The City of Fort St. John has released its annual report for 2018, and has called a public meeting for the end of the month. The annual report gives residents a review of city operations for the year, including where the city is spending its money, who’s paying the most taxes, current and upcoming projects, and the activity and accomplishments of various departments. City council will hold a public meeting Monday, June 24 at 6 p.m. in council chambers to review the report and take questions from the public. Here are some highlights from the report: • The city collected $88.9 million in revenues and paid out just over $58.8 million in expenses. • The city saw a drop in government transfers due to deferred capital projects (down $2.5 million) and fewer developer contributions because of less development activity (down $700,000). But the city also saw a rise in investment returns of $1.6

million over budget, while the sale of services was up $300,000 due to increased water consumption. • The city spent an extra $700,000 for snow removal, storm drain clearing, and pothole repairs due to heavy snowfall, while transportation costs were $1.2 million over budget due to amortization. The city also paid $900,000 to resolve a holdback deficiency on the construction Pomeroy Sport Centre. The city saved $600,000 by not rolling out a yard waste collection program as initially planned. • The city’s annual surplus was $30.1 million in 2018, the majority of which comes largely from provincial Peace River Agreement funding that the city spends on capital assets like roads, buildings, and equipment, as well as other special projects. The city’s operating surplus was $1.56 million. • The city is carrying $35.5 million in long term debt supported by taxpayers — or, $1,650 per resident — and well over $200 million available in borrowing capacity. • The city has $21.7 million in cash and savings in the

bank, down significantly from $51.1 million in 2017. • The city’s population estimates dropped by more than 1,000 to 21,500 people in 2018, in according to BC Stats. • In 2019, the city will start work on a historical manual for the Peace River Agreement and the formation of the Peace River Legacy Agreement. The Peace River Agreement is a deal with the province that compensates the city for industrial development outside its boundaries. The Peace River Legacy Agreement are separate provincial funds flowing to the city and region because of the Site C dam construction. • The city has completed a feasibility report to build a second micro-hydro station. That report will be presented to council later this year. The city’s first micro-hydro station in the Old Fort neighbourhood began generating power in October 2015. • The city’s water recovery centre is expected to open in the fall. The centre will reclaim treated sewage water for industrial and agricultural uses.

maximum height of fencing surrounding the property. • Council authorized Mayor Lori Ackerman to attend the BC Non-Profit Housing Association’s northern education and networking tradeshow event in Prince George on June 13. The trip will cost $270 for per diems and incidentals, charged to council’s travel account.

• Council recognized the year 2019 as marking the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Institute of Planners. The institute represents more than 7,000 planners across Canada. Planners are always thinking about their communities, and how buildings, roads, and parks “fit together like a puzzle,” city planner Ashley Murphey said. “Planning helps create communities of lasting value,” Murphey said. — Matt Preprost

young philanthropist

Bobbi Anne Chouinard photo

You can never be to young to start doing good and paying it forward in your community. That’s what Leah Gauvin is doing. Leah celebrated her 7th birthday on Friday, and asked her guests to bring donations for the outreach store at the Women’s Resource Society. She dropped by the centre today to drop off the collection of canned goods, school snacks, and meal kits. Pictured: Leah Gauvin with WRS outreach and housing coordinator Jenn Brown.

If you are injured, choose the right legal team. Our experience, expertise and past results give you the confidence to focus on your recovery while we focus on your claim.

Ryan Irving

Allyson Edwards

Michael Yawney, Q.C.

Contingency fees available—no recovery, no fees. WE DO NOT ACT FOR ICBC. Contact us for your free, no obligation personal injury consultation. Tel: 250-785-5252 • Tf: 1-800-243-5353

www.nixonwenger.com

James Cotter

TRUSTED. RESULTS.

A6 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

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

William Julian wj@ahnfsj.ca

managing editor

Matt Preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

sports reporter

Dillon Giancola sports@ahnfsj.ca

sales manager

Ryan Wallace rwallace@ahnfsj.ca

sales associate

Brenda Piper

bpiper@ahnfsj.ca

circulation manager

Lynn Novack

circulation@ahnfsj.ca

graphic artist

Tim Cramer compose@ahnfsj.ca

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION? Send your letters to: editor@ahnfsj.ca Please put “Letter to the Editor” in the subject line. All letters must be accompanied by a daytime phone number (for verification purposes only) and your full name. We reserve the right to edit letters for length, taste, accuracy and libel. Please keep letters under 600 words. We ask that submissions protest the policy - not the person. Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor do not necessarily reflect those of the Alaska Highway News.

NATIONAL NEWSMEDIA COUNCIL The Alaska Highway News is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please let us know first. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

COPYRIGHT AND LEGAL NOTICES The Alaska Highway News retains sole copyright of advertising, news stories and photography produced by staff. Copyright of letters and other materials submitted to the Editor and accepted for publication remain with the author, but the Publisher and its licensees may freely reproduce them in print, electronic or other forms. Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher. Second class mail registration No. 0167

Editorially Speaking

he front page of our June 6 edition featured local teens Lian Merrill and Adrian Spooner wrapped in a rainbow flag and enjoying a sunny day of Pride festivities the weekend prior. It was a great portrait photo that embodied the spirit of the occasion: that, young or old, love is love, and that Fort St. John is working to be an inclusive and supportive community, not an exclusionary and discouraging one. The photo drew criticism, however, including a letter to the editor Monday expressing concern that the two teens were inappropriately sexualized by being identified as partners, and that we should be careful as a newspaper about what we promote and endorse. Reaction was swift on Facebook, both

countering and condemning that viewpoint, and criticizing its publication for promoting homophobia. The writer was well within their right to submit a letter to the editor, and the community was well within its right to respond. I don’t believe the word ‘partner’ to be much of a taboo word, even in the context of teen love; nor was it used in this context to sexualize anyone or anything. But I believe the letter writer was sincere in their suggestion that we should be mindful of language and how it may be interpreted, at the very least how it was interpreted by them. I also don’t believe publishing the letter was promoting homophobia, though I can see

where the concern is coming from. Certainly, sharing a reader’s opinion of an editorial choice wasn’t meant to shame or to bully, but to address the issue that was raised. I believe responders were sincere in their concern that we should always be mindful of the public discourse in our community, and how the spaces we create for the marginalized can be lost if we aren’t. At the end of the day, I do regret how Lian and Adrian became unwitting faces in the flashpoint of a debate over the use of a word that turned into so much more, and for that I apologize. I believe as teens they are owed autonomy and are capable of making decisions for themselves, and have some important lessons to share,

as does every youth in this community who will make up the future face of the city. I think the debate revealed the gains the city has made, but also the strides it still needs to take. We play a collective role in that, and this type of work is a multigenerational task. I hope Lian and Adrian are enjoying the summer sun, still smiling, still rainbow wrapped. I hope maybe they prove to be among those lucky few who find a true partner for life when they’re young — in whatever form that partnership takes. I remember being in love at that age; what a time it was to be alive. Matt Preprost is managing editor of the Alaska Highway News. Email him at editor@ ahnfsj.ca.

Bloated city salaries, bureaucracy becoming a concern

here is a saying that the best disinfectant is sunshine. As it applies to government at all levels, there is an annual requirement to disclose salary, wage and benefit and expenses levels. This article is about local government, particularly Fort St. John, and how it compares or does not compare with our neighbours in Dawson Creek. When I first thought about doing this article, I must admit that my first target was the nosebleed-level earnings in the fire deparment, and that still remains one of my concerns. But in researching the facts, I was really distressed to discover a deeper problem – one that has seen management level “civil servants” become “civil administrators.” Now, don’t get me wrong; I don’t think this phrase fits all senior management, as there are lots of great, underappreciated people who work for us in our local government. What concerns me is the bloating of senior management and their very large salaries, seemingly completely out of step with the private sector. From 1992 to 2004, the city froze staff levels at 110, improving services every year, and rewarding staff innovation. From 2004 to 2018, our population has grown from

Steve Thorlakson 16,953 to 21,516, a 26.9% increase. Staff levels have grown from 110 to 232, an increase of 210%, almost eight times the rate of population growth. Talk about socialist style empire building – it literally takes your breath away! In 2005, the municipal tax rate was 6.4682/$1,000, the school tax rate was 4.3336/$1,000, a ratio of 1.49 to 1. In 2019, the city tax rate is 4.8608, and school tax is 2.2031, for a ratio of 2.21. Your city taxes have grown almost 50% more than your school taxes. And the debt payments on the Enerplex are over and above that. In 2004, the city had one city manager, and approximately 15 other non-union staff. Today, it has a city manager, paid an outrageous $240,000 per year versus $165,000 per year in Dawson Creek. Fort St. John has four general managers, Dawson has two; we have three superintendents, Dawson has none. Fort St. John has 30 staff that fall within the catch-all of manager, supervisor,

HaveYOUR

foreman, etc., not counting the above! Dawson Creek has 15. If you haven’t figured it out yet, statistics don’t lie. The Chinese figured it out thousands of years ago. Their bureaucrats, called mandarins, knew that the best way to secure their own position was to have as many layers of staff below them as possible, a lesson that senior management in Fort St. John has perfected, and one that mayor and council must be oblivious of. When I started this investigation, I thought it would expose terrible waste in Dawson Creek, and I still think they have a long way to go to dig themselves out of their mismanagement hole. But, I am honestly astounded that Fort St. John is worse. Do I blame the bureaucrats? No. I blame mayor and council, who have either engineered or permitted this bloated travesty. We have a mayor with tons of charisma and outstanding communication skills, but council has clearly focused too much effort on external relations rather than business at home. Nobody speaks off-script on local matters either because they don’t know the issues (I don’t believe that), or they are allowing themselves to be muzzled. We clearly need

independent mindedness by at least one member of council, who isn’t afraid to speak publicly. I’ve been writing this column for more than three months, and asked many serious questions, everything from snow removal to the purchase of the Condill. What have I heard from mayor or council, or city management? Nothing. If I were incorrect, I would expect to stand corrected, and acknowledge my error(s). I’m trying to poke harder – more to get more steely-eyed businessmen and women directly involved before the ship of state hits the rocks. The huge numbers of unpaid taxes will confirm that local business is hurting, while mayor, council, and senior management continue to consider any criticism as lese majeste (Google it). And if the citizens don’t take charge of their own destiny, they will get what they deserve. I’m no great fan of unions, particularly government unions, but I have no axe to grind with the BCGEU. Now, the IAFF, which represents firemen, is another burr under my saddle to be scratched another day. Steve Thorlakson is a resident and former mayor of Fort St. John.

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, JUNE 20, 2019 A7

LOCAL NEWS

Plastics or politicians — which would you ban?

n June 10, the headlines blared: Canada to ban single use plastics. The story then explained the feds were only commissioning a report on what, how, and when we do what with single-use plastics, and that this wouldn’t be completed before 2021. It was another “mom and apple pie” headline — the story makes you feel good, but then you’re still looking for more in an hour or two. The reality behind achieving such a ban is much more complicated than we think, and will involve all of us (ie. voters) doing our part. And in my flat world reality, it would likely be easier to ban some of these dumb politics than it would be to ban those annoying plastics. Although this announcement was pure politics and designed to have you to read the headline so you can remember to vote for an unpopular leader and government this fall, it’s an important and pressing issue when viewed at the world scale. Rather than the bluster, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau should have simply stated that they are beginning a two-year process to determine just how we can reduce our use of plastics (and not just single use), stop most all from being discarded willy nilly into our

environment, and, have most, if not all, recycled. Instead, our PM tried to focus on finding someone to blame (producers who react to our needs, our demands, and our government’s regulations), job creation (somehow 45,000 jobs will magically appear), and then when this happens, our costs will go down. My simple sense says just about the opposite will happen. We aren’t the first country to head down this path, so at least we can say we won’t be alone, like our economic assassination plan so commonly labelled as “climate action”. The European Union is moving in this direction, and that is good. Problem is, most of the issues are created in countries that have not committed to follow this same type of direction. Although I don’t agree with a lot of what the National Geographic publishes, I did agree with most of what they wrote in their June 2018 edition, Planet of Plastics. To bring a sense of reality in what they are trying to say, I read this issue while travelling in Africa. Drive and boat around Egypt and the magnitude of our plastic problem is driven home. I could also say the same about the southeast Asian countries I visited a couple of years ago, or Central America, or parts of South

more trees to do this — and we could put our collective wisdoms together and solve the problems around recycling plastics into reusable products. As to the European Union, most of what they plan on banning relates to the food and beverage industry. Their research says that 70% of what ends up in the oceans comes from these types of single-use plastics. OK, I can agree to that, as I grew up without the benefit of these, and could easily go back. Remember what “take-out food” meant? Mom, Grandma (OK, very occasionally a dad or grandfather) making lunch, wrapping it in paper (newspaper worked), liquids in a glass or steel bottle (unless you just went to the nearest creek or lake with your cup), ceramic or melamine plates and steel cutlery, all placed in a basket or cardboard box with cloth napkins. At the end of the meal, all paper was burned in the fire and the rest went back home to be washed and reused. I also grew up in a time where we didn’t just throw everything away after it was used. We can go back there too, if we so wish, but it will take more than laws to accomplish this. It will take some common sense from all of us and not some political edict from our eco-centric politicians trying to

buy a few more votes. There are some simple solutions, but some may require changes to regulations. For example, can we take our own packaging into the takeout restaurant’s kitchen to be filled? Can we take our own containers to the grocery and hardware stores and fill them? Can we go back to a society that stops throwing everything away? After all, in my hunting camp, I have been known to reuse plastic cups, plastic cutlery, and plastic plates. And when done, they all make great fire starter. Simply put, plastics that are entering our water systems are a good place to begin our focus. But alas, just like our worldwide contributions to carbon dioxide levels, our contributions of plastics into aquatic environments pale in comparison to what is happening in the rest of the world. Just look at pages 55 to 57 of the June 2018 National Geographic and you will get my meaning. Our contributions are down in the “hard to measure” department. Money may be better spent on developing processes to recycle plastics.

converted from a Nazi concentration camp to a museum is to educate us as human beings of what happens when we choose to hate each other for our differences, rather than love each other for both our differences and our similarities. We should all strive to do that more often.

you that implied that. As a guardian of one of the adolescents, I can tell you how excited they were to have their picture taken and used in a positive way for something they a proud of and you try to turn it in to something wrong.

together. Why use your assumptions and prejudices to elicit shame or imply innuendo?

— Chris Newton, former news director Moose FM and Energeticcity.ca, via email

I completely agree that it is inappropriate. Not the relationship, that is their private business. Private. Not for the front page of a newspaper. What was the paper thinking to post pictures of minors with that headline?

Evan Saugstad America. National Geographic reports that most plastics are entering our waterways and accumulating in our oceans from rivers flowing from Third World countries, and not countries like ours, the U.S., or Europe. Discarded plastics are coming from places that have limited or no waste management or recycling systems, no educational programs about the local and world environment, and what impacts our careless use of plastics may have. This this were the real problem exists. Not Canada, not B.C., and certainly not here in Northeast BC, a few thousand river miles from our oceans. Yes, we can all do better and ensure that we properly dispose of all our trash, which most people do. Yes, we can use less, but that is a different issue. And yes, we can use alternatives to plastics, like pulp and paper products sourced from our sustainably managed forests — but, OMG, we may have to cut down some

Evan Saugstad is a former mayor of Chetwynd, and lives in Fort St. John.

Letters to the editor FRONT PAGE PRIDE PHOTO PROBLEMATIC

years ago, it was with a slight sense of trepidation. I was 25, had only realised and emRe: ‘Rainbow wrapped’, braced that I was gay for just Alaska Highway News, June 6, four years, and was moving to 2019 a region of the province that, to me at the time, was not known Concerning the caption for its pro-LGBTQ+ attitudes. below the main picture on In my two-and-a-half years the front cover of the June 6 working in the media in Fort edition: It introduces a child St. John, I covered the annual and then introduces the Pride Walk each year from its second as the first’s partner. inauguration in 2016. In that Partners could be a pair of time, I also discovered there are people engaged together in the far more members of the comsame activity, but the context munity who are accepting of suggests that they are members those who identify as LGBTQ+ of an established unmarried than I could have imagined couple. four years ago. This is problematic. It is very After being made aware of inappropriate to imply and/or Mr. Gerald Giesbrecht’s letter to advertise grade nine student’s AHN on Monday, I have some sexual partnership on the front thoughts. cover of a newspaper. These Mr. Giesbrecht’s umbrage to are children aged 14-15 years the caption of a photo showold. They are not allowed to ing two Grade 9 students rehave a driver’s license or to ferred to as “partners” may be purchase alcohol. They can’t many things, but most of all it vote or own firearms. They are is narrow-minded. Here’s a fact: minors. They are not entrusted adolescence is when all of us, with care and control in most whether straight, gay, trans, or areas of life, yet their immature queer turn into adults and exand childish alleged sexual perience our sexuality and the relations are presented in relationships with boyfriends public media. and girlfriends that inevitably Please be more careful what ensues. you present and endorse. While many might disagree with Mr. Preprost’s decision to — Gerald Giesbrecht, publish this letter, I support his Fort St. John decision for two reasons. First, the overwhelming opposition LETTER REMINDS US against the letter shows there WHY PRIDE EXISTS is far more love than hate in the world. Second, the letter reWhen I first moved to the minds us why events like Pride Peace Region more than five exist. The reason Auschwitz was

My son, 14, from Dr. Kearney, is dating someone and because that someone happens to be a girl, if it said partner under a caption of them, no one would think twice. The Alaska Highway News appears to be presenting a couple of young people who are dating and if anything are ‘endorsing’ love and freedom. — Heather Paddison, via alaskahighwaynews.ca If the newspaper had posted a frontpage photo of a couple of LGBTQ people back when I was growing up, maybe I wouldn’t have had to move away before I came out. But no, let’s sexualize and politicize a couple of youth celebrating the fact that they don’t have to live with the same fear I did 15-20 years ago. — Katie Cutting, via Facebook Just because it was said they are partners does not imply a sexual relationship. That was

— Tanya Hake, via Facebook

— Destiny Ashdown, via Facebook Look at the smiles on their faces. That says it all. Please don’t give a platform for prejudice disguised as concern (by the way...I also have a problem with the “immature and childish” comments. shameful.) — Susan McGarvey, via Facebook

How many people know how the Pride walk in FSJ was star— Michele Grant Jeffers, ted? It was the teens at NPSS via Facebook in the Gay Straight Alliance that talked to their counselor Problem is, not all, support about walking down the street Pride, including many that with a flag to show support for show for the “party” atmo- each other. Their counselor sphere. The thing is, publically was part of the FSJ Pride soputting the picture on front ciety and brought the idea to page does put a price on their them. My daughter was one heads and leaves them very of those teens. I could not be open to public ridicule, and more proud of her and the otheven potential harm. er teens that had the courage to want to do that. This picture — Donna Folk, via Facebook is absolutely innocent of any sexual tone at all. I see two teens If they were straight no one showing support for the LGBwould bat an eye. It would be TQ community. I see two teens viewed as “puppy love”. These that are courageous enough to are young and innocent kids. be photographed as have their picture posted for the whole — Denise Nadine, community to see it. I want to via Facebook congratulate them and thank them for their courage! ‘An established unmarried couple’? It’s two kids particip— Morley Wigglesworth, ating in acceptance of diversity via Facebook

Your reputation never goes on vacation

his was sage advice from one of the speakers at the conference I attended in Toronto last week. The same speaker added, “we have to always be the same person, regardless of where we travel and who we meet.” So, you can imagine my surprise when another speaker at a second conference I attended said that when he moved from one place to another, he used it as an opportunity to reinvent himself. He even went so far as to change his name in his quest for reinvention. In the first instance, I looked up from my notebook

and nodded vigorously in agreement. I live and breathe by authenticity – I intentionally illustrate that I am the same person, with the same values and belief system always. When the other keynote speaker spoke about using change as an opportunity to become someone else, I was confused, but continued to listen, hoping that I would get the message he was sharing with the audience. I finally figured out where he was going when he said that reinvention is, sometimes, just, “playing a larger version of yourself,” and that your beliefs ultimately dictate your action. When he reinvented himself

Judy Kucharuk and changed his name, he didn’t change his core beliefs, he merely changed how he packaged himself for the world. He changed the tone of his voice so that he was taken more seriously. He changed the volume of his voice so that he was heard. He gave possibility the benefit of the doubt and as a result, he changed the lens through which he saw himself.

Where am I going with this? Well, so many of us live a smaller version of ourselves in order to fit into the community, the workplace, and even our family dynamic. We allow fear to dictate how we live our lives. We live this small version of ourselves because we are afraid of how our individual worlds may react. Women are more likely to shrink themselves down into an acceptable package. We have been told that when we are loud that we can appear aggressive. We have been told when we are forceful with our opinions that we intimidate. We have been told to smile because we are“so much prettier” when we do.

If fear keeps us from living large, then what are we afraid of? For many of us, the fear is laziness wrapped up in a big bow. Asserting ourselves can be hard work. Allowing ourselves to be seen clearly can be terrifying. Speaking up can be exhausting. It is much easier to live this teeny, weeny version of ourselves because the alternative takes effort. At what age do we decide we are going to remain this bitesized version of who we are? Is it 30, 40, or is it 50? In my opinion, we’re never too old to change, never too old to learn. We’re never too old to become the person that has hidden inside.

A8 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Local News

UP TO

2020 JEEP GLADIATOR

ALL NEW

Starting at

56,984

+ TAXES AND FEES of $527

2018 RAM 3500 SXT C/C DUALLY DIESEL

FINANCING AS LOW AS 2019 RAM 1500 DT SXT C/C

was $78,572

DON’T FORGET

Stk# 18HD0407

+ TAXES AND FEES of $527

424 B/W

EVERY PURCHASE GETS YOU ENTERED INTO OUR NEXT

$10,000 GIVEAWAY

2019 RAM 1500 DS SXT PLUS Q/C

257 B/W MAKE NO PAYMENTS UNTIL SEPTEMBER

PAYMENT VACATION

+ TAXES AND FEES of $527

Stk# 19R51

253 B/W

NOW

52,491

+ TAXES AND FEES of $527

Stk# 19HD236

338 B/W

2019 RAM 3500 TRADESMAN C/C DIESEL

was $74,122

was $78,897

NOW

57,591

+ TAXES AND FEES of $527

was $67,652

2019 RAM 2500 POWER WAGON C/C

41,491

Stk# 19R34

2019 RAM 2500 TRADESMAN C/C

NOW

38,991

NOW

ASK US HOW TO TAKE A

was $58,818

was $58,369

NOW

59,391

10,000

CASH BACK

+ TAXES AND FEES of $527

Stk# 19HD326

381 B/W

NOW

59,991

+ TAXES AND FEES of $527

Stk# 19HD172

386 B/W

FORT CITY CHRYSLER

8424 Alaska Road Fort St. John, BC 250-787-5220 | 1-877-787-5220

www.fortcitychrysler.ca

All New vehicles payments include $527.00 fees which are added to the price. Payments are bi weekly, and based off A 96 month term At 4.29%. O.A.C. 0% Financing is available on Ram 1500 DS models trucks for up to 84 months, and Ram 1500 DT trucks for up to 48 months. However, the above mentioned rebate of 25% off MSRP on DS trucks, and $10,500 on DT’s can not be used with the 0% interest Rate. A $5000 rebate will be used instead to take advantage of 0%. See Dealer for complete details. No payments until September, Are O.A.C. on New vehicles (prime loans only) see deAler for complete details. All units were available At time of printing. pictures Are for display purposes only, and vehicles may Not be exactly As illustrated. see dealer for complete details. All offers end Saturday June 29th At 5pm.

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019 A9

Business

“These renovations are long overdue and we are excited for the community to see a brand new theatre this fall” — Oliver Hachmeister, A16

Congratulations! Camosun College Distinguished Alumni Award 2019 Recipient Gowan Armstrong Forest industry leader. Operational controller. Mentor.

MATT PREPROST PHOTO

Where would Brian Surerus be without a 1969 Ford Ranger F100? Well, one could say he may not be in Fort St John. The truck carried him from Roseneath, Ontario, out west and north, where he traded in the truck for some equipment, put down roots, and built himself a business. Surerus Pipeline celebrated its 50th anniversary on June 14, 2019, alongside family, friends, and the community. And to mark the milestone, Surerus was presented with a restored 1969 Ford Ranger, original colour and all. It may not be his original truck, but it’s a great gift to mark a great legacy, nevertheless. Read more about the company’s 50th anniversary in this month’s edition of Pipeline News North, out next week.

Alumni

You always belong here

camosun.ca/alumni

Council to consider fire hall offer MATT PREPROST editor@ahnfsj.ca

The city has found a potential buyer for the old fire hall. The city plans to sell the the site for $625,000 to 1117731 BC Ltd., a company based in Prince George. The sale is conditional on rezoning the land, currently institutional. City council will formally receive the offer in a closed meeting on June 24, and will consider a proposed zoning amendment at their regular meeting open to the public the same day. The numbered company is based in Prince George. The owners deferred comment, pending the approval and closure of the sale.

The city hired Ron Rodgers of NorthEast BC Realty to broker the sale of the surplus building and land. The property had been listed for $758,000, and was dropped to $689,000. The city has said it’s treating the redevelopment of the fire hall as part of its downtown revitalization plan, with preference for a mixed-used retail and commercial development that could include housing. If the deal closes, it will be the first property sold under the city’s new sale of strategic lands policy. The policy was adopted in summer 2017 to sell surplus municipal lands under specific planning guidelines based on what the city has identified is the best use of the property.

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Fort St. John Center is located in downtown Fort St John and provides settlement and integration services to the immigrant community in the north. Information and referrals on: citizenship, immigration, housing, employment, health, social benefits, education, connection to community services and form filling guidance. Workshops: Newcomers Orientation, Canadian Culture, Driving in BC, Citizenship, etc. Address: #209 10142 101 Avenue, Fort St John BC V1J 2B3

Phone: 250-785-5323 • www.successbc.ca To access services client must provide PR card, work or study permit.

Romance Package $229 + TAXES PER NIGHT Students get hands-on with tech and design career fair MATT PREPROST editor@ahnfsj.ca

Fort St. John elementary students filled the Pomeroy Sport Centre last week to get a taste of applied design and technical trades outside the classroom. It was part of the School District 60’s first Xplorefest on Friday, June 14, giving Grade 5 and 6 students a chance to work with tools, experience firefighter training, and sharpen their artistic skills making everything from 3-D art to tinkering around with Rube Goldberg machines. It’s part of a new school curriculum focused on applied design skills and

technology, said Brian Campbell, district principal for careers and international education. “We’re exposing a lot of students to a lot of hands-on activities where they get to design, build,” Campbell said. The event exposed students to numerous careers to extend learning outside the classroom, Campbell said, and will help set them up for the educational path they may want to pursue when they get to high school. It was the first annual event, though Campbell expects XploreFest to continue. “With the feedback we’re getting today, I think it’s going to be the first of many,” he said.

Please Recycle this Newspaper

Stay & Play Casino Package STANDARD KING SUITE OR DOUBLE QUEEN SUITE

$219 + TAXES

FREE UPGRADE TO FAMILY SUITE FREE $25 CINEPLEX GIFT CARD OR $25 BOWLING STONES GIFT CARD FREE $10 TIM HORTONS GIFT CARD FREE SNACKS (2 CHIPS Be 2 BEVERAGES) FREE 2:00PM LATE CHECK OUT FREE DELUXE HOT BREAKFAST BUFFET FREE FIBRE OPTIC HIGH SPEED INTERNET

Gas Card package $219 + TAXES

FREE UPGRADE TO JACUZZI SUITE FREE 2PM CHECK OUT TIME FREE BOTTLE OF WINE FREE BOX OF CHOCOLATES FREE BOUQUET OF FLOWERS FREE DELUXE HOT BREAKFAST BUFFET FREE FIBRE OPTIC HIGH SPEED INTERNET

Shopping Package $219 +TAXES PRAIRIE MALL Free $25 GIFT Certificate For The GREAT Northern Casino Lounge Free Beverage Coupon FOR The Great Northern Casino Free $10 GAMING VOUCHER For The Great Northern Casino Free Late Check Out At 2:00 Pm Free Hot BREAKFAST BUFFET FREE FIBRE OPTIC HIGH SPEED INTERNET

Family$229Package + TAXES PER NIGHT STANDARD KING OR DOUBLE QUEEN SUITE FREE EARLY CHECK IN FREE $25 PETRO CANADA GIFT CARD FREE $10 GAMING VOUCHER FOR THE GREAT NORTHERN CASINO FREE BEVERAGE COUPON FOR THE GREAT NORTHERN Casino FREE DELUXE HOT BREAKFAST BUFFET FREE FIBRE OPTIC HIGH SPEED INTERNET

ENCORE SUITES BY SERVICE PLUS INNS 10639-110 Street Grande Prairie AB, T8V-7P9 email: grandeprairie@encoresuites.ca

Visit our website: www.encoresuites.ca

51344

MATT PREPROST PHOTO

Dan Pope teachers Grade 5 Robert Ogilvie student Cohen Mackinnon how to thread a pipe at XploreFest, June 14, 2019.

KING SUITE DOUBLE QUEEN SUITE PRAIRIE MALL $25 GIFT CARD FREE $10 GREAT NORTHERN CASINO CASH PLAY FREE BEVERAGE COUPON FOR THE GREAT NORTHERN CASINO FREE EARLY CHECK IN 6 LATE 2PM CHECK OUT FREE HOT BREAKFAST BUFFET FREE FIBRE OPTIC HIGH SPEED INTERNET

52861

A10 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

BUSINESS

A message to our grads

Don Stirling slices the cake celebrating Epscan’s 40th year in business during an open house on June 14, 2019. Read more about the company’s 40th anniversary in this month’s edition of Pipeline News North, out next week. MATT PREPROST PHOTO

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! On February 12, 2019, Government announced its intention to modernize the Royal BC Museum to protect its historic holdings and provide better access to its collections for everyone in BC. The Province is holding an online dialogue session to hear your thoughts on the future of the museum. June 20 I 7:00–8:00 pm For instructions on how to participate, visit engage.gov.bc.ca/museummodernization. Be part of the conversation!

Drop by and check out our great selection of footwear for all of your outdoor summer activities

ecoming. Your greatest accomplishment is the discovery of who you

are. Go out and explore your world. Work hard, save your money, not for the sake of consumerism, but so you may travel and gather experience. Today is where your dream begins. Your foot is at the starting line of your life. The race will unfold as you decide it to. Athletes are trained to visualize the finish line, the goal, the basket. You have 50% talent and 50% effort. In the words of Dr. Seuss, do not judge a fish by the ability to climb a tree. Stop for some time. The most important exercise you could partake in is one of self-discovery. Figure out who you are and what feeds your soul. Take some time for self-discovery with the help of a mentor, coach. or advisor. Some of you may take the first half of your life to figure out who you are. Some of you may enjoy experiencing as many different things as possible and draw from those experiences a doctorate of life. We need your wisdom. Journal those experiences. Some of you may take your unbending intent and become doctors, scientists, mathematicians, philosophers, teachers, business leaders. We need you. We need your wisdom. Some of you will enter the world of politics, become humanitarians, or philanthropists. We need you. Some will choose a simple job but in that simple job have great importance. Your smile at the barista counter can change lives. Smile big. To the labourers, the janitors, the servers: We need you. You are valued and important. Smile big. Fill your hearts. Share your experiences. Write, laugh, play your music, share your art. To the people that aspire to be parents, the most important holders of our future. Stop before you take on this role and fully understand who you are. Take your time. Our future is not to be made lightly. The IT techs, farmers, truck drivers, tradespeople. Athletes. It takes an entire community. You are important. The artists, including musicians, singers, dancers, photographers, cinematographers, whatever your art may be, keep dreaming. Create a mental health plan. Understand the impact of stress. Create strategies of self-care before the going gets

MATT PREPROST

Dawson Co-op Mall • Phone: 250-782-8283

Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM • Saturday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

RipsShoeRenu.com • ripsshoerenu@shaw.ca

LIFE AT GROUND ZERO

tough – don’t worry, you likely won’t take this advice until it has been rooted in experience. But know that there are mental health resources. Everyone uses them from time to time. Plan for wellness plan. Look to those before you and say, I can do better. I will look after myself. I will look after my environment. Some of you will say no to consumerism, no to meat, no to GMO, and so on. Understand who you are; your strengths and weaknesses. Most importantly, to all the dreamers; Never stop dreaming. Each and everyone of you are dreamers. You would not be here today without those dreams. Everything you have become is the result of an idea, a dream. You took that dream and have made it into reality. Already I have witnessed some amazing dreams in the graduating class of 2019. Always remember if you don’t like the direction of your life you can choose another dream. Listen to your internal dialogue, perhaps what you are saying is revealing itself in your present day. Dream a bigger dream. You have a choice. The choice starts now. The choice is yours! To my son, Bruce: I am so very, very proud of your accomplishments. It has been an absolute pleasure to watch you grow. As I witness you say goodbye to high school with a loud roar, I can’t wait for you to begin your chapter. Dream big! Congratulations to the NPSS graduating Class of 2019. You are the next generation of leaders! This makes me so proud. I have watched many of you grow into the fine humans you are today. Some of you fell down a few times on the way. Some of you will fall down a few times more. That is OK. If you are not making mistakes you are not pushing the boundaries of possibility. Push hard. Edwina Nearhood is a lifelong resident of Fort St. John. Her 30-year experience in the appraisal industry offers a unique lens on the challenges associated with the economic forces impacting real estate and the community.

New housing lifts city construction numbers editor@ahnfsj.ca

WE CARRY A GREAT SELECTION OF RED WING BOOTS!

Edwina Nearhood

Fort St. John continues to see positive gains in construction values this year. The city issued 13 building permits for new construction in May, pushing its year-todate values to $24.2 million. The city has issued 37 permits so far in 2019, one shy of the 38 issued at the same time last year. Construction values are well ahead of last year, when new construction was valued at just $7.2 million. The lift is being seen in the construction of new multifamily housing, with three permits issued for 13 new homes in May, valued at $4.4 million. The city had seen no new multi-family construction this time last last year. The building of the Anne Roberts Young Elementary School has also elevated values, with institutional values

at $11.2 million for the year, up sharply from just $10,000 in 2018. New home builds are relatively on par with 2018, with permits for 13 new single family homes worth $6.2 million issued for far for the year, compared to permits for 14 homes worth $5.5 million in 2018. The city is seeing a slowdown in commercial construction, with just eight permits worth $2.1 million compared to 14 permits worth $1.3 million last year. The city has issued nine garage/renovation permits valued at $264,000, down from nine valued at $325,000. The city issued 13 building permits valued at $8.3 million in May, most of them for housing. Permits included four new single family homes, as well as permits for construction at Totem Mall and Safeway.

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019 A11

Local News

Police seize shotgun, drugs in traffic stop Fort St. John RCMP say they seized a sawed-off shotgun along with cocaine and meth during a traffic stop earlier this month. Police searched the vehicle during a traffic stop for a broken brake light around 2:45 a.m. on June 1, police said in a news release. The passengers were arrested and later released “without process” and to attend a future court date. “The risk to frontline officers personal safety is always a reality,” Cst. Chad Neustaeter said in the release. “Traffic stops can often turn into something more serious and the actions of our officers to get drugs and guns off our streets needs to be applauded.”

Carnival robbery investigated Fort St. John RCMP are investigating after a man was robbed as he was leaving the carnival held in town last month. In a news release, police say they received a report of the robbery on May 25 between 10:30 and 11 p.m. According to police, the victim said he was walking away from the carnival held in Wal-Mart lot when three men in their mid-20s rushed him. One of the men struck the victim in the face before stealing an

undisclosed amount of cash from his wallet. The suspect is described as a Caucasian male, about 5 feet 5 inches tall, clean shaven with face tattoos, and was wearing a pink T-shirt and white shorts “The Fort St John RCMP believed this to be an isolated incident and do not believe there is any risk to the public at this time,” said Cst. Aidan Finlay said in the release. “To further the investigation, we wish to speak to anyone who may have been in the area at the time and may have seen or heard the incident occur.” Anyone with information is asked to call the detachment or Crime Stoppers.

Ring, motorcycle found Missing a ring? Maybe a motorcyle? If you are, Fort St. John RCMP are looking for you. The lady’s ring was found June 10 in the area of 93 Avenue and 93 Street. The Honda motorcycle was found abandoned May 27 in an alley in the area of 97 Avenue and 94 Street. If you believe they are yours, drop in to the detachment. Residents will be asked to provide a description and any identifying documentation or photographs of the items before they are returned.

peace region

court docket A summary of sentences and fines handed out in Northeast B.C. courts for the week ending June 14, 2019: Fort St. John Law Courts • Nicholas Reynolds (born 1998) was sentenced to 15 days jail, handed a 12-month probation order, and given a 10-year firearms ban for assaulting a peace officer. Reynolds was given a 12-month probation order and 10-year firearms ban for two counts of assault and uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm. Reynolds was jailed for seven days for breach of undertaking. • Teri Lynn Wolfe (born 1978) was given a one-year probation order for assault and breach of undertaking. Wolfe was given a one-year probation order for another charge of assault. Wolfe was given a one-year probation order for intimidation of the justice system. Wolfe was given a oneyear probation order for theft under $5,000. Wolfe was given a one-year probation order for another charge of theft. • Joseph Nathan Brownfield (born 1978) was fined $2,000, given a 12-month probation order, and

assessed a $300 victim surcharge for driving without reasonable consideration. • Randy William Paul St Pierre (born 1988) was granted a conditional discharge with a one-year probation order for mischief under $5,000. St Pierre received the same sentence on a second charge of mischief as well as breach of probation. • Michael Frederick Wydenes (born 1969) was fined $750 on two charges of for wilfully resisting or obstructing a police officer. • Ryan Matthew Fallows (born 1991) was fined $200 for breach of undertaking. Dawson Creek Law Courts • Allan Matthew Courtoreille (born 1969) was sentenced to time served, fined $500, banned from driving for two years, and assessed a $75 victim surcharge for driving with a suspended licence. Courtoreille was sentenced to time served for being unlawfully at large. • Desmond James Felix (born 1983) was given a four-month conditional sentence and a 12 month probation order for killing or injuring an animal. Felix received the same sentence on a charge of assault. — Matt Preprost

THE 25thANNUAL

Silver Anniversary

summer Cruise July 12 - 14, 2019 Dawson Creek, BC Rain or Shine! Over $15,000 in Prizes! *Early Bird Entry Draws **Poker Rally Door Prizes **Show & Shine Prizes

Grand Prizes:

• 375hp 383 Chevy Stroker engine – proudly donated by Pat’s Auto Supply • Trip for Two – proudly donated by Uniglobe Phillips Travel

Phillips

Plus:

• Radical Series Toolbox – proudly donated by McLevin’s Bros. Automotive

$2500 Door Prize Daily:

DIRECTORY

C A L L 2 5 0 . 7 8 5 . 5 6 3 1 TO P L A C E Y O U R A D ARBORIST

Len Chartrand President

DENTURES

PAVING

1-250-794-2041

DECOR

ROOFING

METAL ROOFING & SIDING NOW DOING RE-ROOFS AND NEW INSTALLS

Quality Blinds linds in stock l at c clearout Prices!

AGRICULTURAL - INDUSTRIAL - RESIDENTIAL

Bring your measurements & take home a bargain!!

FACTORY DIRECT! 11 Profiles - 32+ colours

4 Brand names of Blinds • design & repair services

Call 250-785-5754

DECOR

Roxanne’s Interior Designs

CUSTOM BLINDS • DRAPERY • SHADES • SHUTTERS

SPRING SALE

Call Joseph 250-794-6618

GREENHOUSES Walker Greenhouses Great selection of Flowers, Trees, Shrubs and much more! OUR SPRING SALE HAS SPRUNG!!

Interior & Exterior - All Leading Manufacturers Home & Patio Furniture & Decor PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATIONS

Lots to Enjoy!!

9632 Fairway Avenue, Taylor, BC V0C 2K0

HOURS: Monday - Friday: 9am - 7pm Saturday: 9am - 6pm | Sunday 11am - 5pm

250-793-9614

4 kms west on Hudson’s hope Hwy

www.roxannesinteriordesigns.com

9916 98 Street, Fort St. John, BC V1J 3T8

Sales Associate

Email: bpiper@ahnfsj.ca Office: 250-785-5631 9916 98 Street, Fort St. John, BC V1J 3T8

WATER

Pure Water New Location

(Previously at the ESSO) 10508 - 101 Ave Across from Gator’s Gym

Coming Soon Akaline Water

52943

Email: rwallace@ahnfsj.ca Office: 250-785-5631

Brenda Piper

jwalter@aurorast.com

Visit our website www.versaframe.ca

www.alaskahighwaynews.ca

Advertising Manager

1-877-8METAL2

250-262-1656 or 250-785-4562

www.alaskahighwaynews.ca

Ryan Wallace

a manufacturer of:

STEEL & TRIM

(Hwy 29) only 15 mins from FSJ.

www.alaskahighwaynews.ca

rrchmelyk@hotmail.com

AURORA

House

of the

CASPIAN

Slender sets of twin posts bound the front porch of the Caspian, a compact contemporary cottage with a sleek footprint. Shingle siding adds to the visual appeal of both triangular gables, while multipaned windows sparkle across the front facade. Spacious linked gathering areas ﬁll the right wing. Sleeping areas dominate the left side, tucked behind the two-car garage. Entering, you step into a short foyer. Its angled display shelves are ideal for sharing family photos or small objects of beauty. The foyer leads on into the dining area, which is totally open to the living room behind and the kitchen up front. A door to the garage, next to the coat closet at the end of the foyer, makes for ease of unloading groceries and other household supplies. A mess-free gas ﬁreplace nestles into one rear corner of the living room. It's next to wide sliding glass doors that let in plenty of daylight, while providing easy,

breezy access to a covered patio at the rear. This sheltered space is ideal for outdoor dining and could be screened. Counters wrap around four sides of the G-shaped kitchen at the opposite end of the gathering space, where a ﬂush eating bar fronts the dining area. Cabinets line the walls above and below most of the counters. Kitchen workers standing at the sink can keep an eye on activities in the front yard, porch and patio outside, plus the dining and living areas inside. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a good-sized utility room cluster together on the left of the Caspian, along with a roomy storage closet. Amenities in the owners' suite include a walk-in closet and a private bathroom with a dual vanity and separately enclosed shower and toilet. Associated Designs is the original source for the Caspian 30-868. For more information or to view other designs, visit www.AssociatedDesigns.com or call 800634-0123.

Owners’ Suite 13' x 14'4'' Covered Patio 16'4'' x 8'

Bedroom 10'8'' x 11'

Caspian

PLAN 30-868

Bedroom 10'8'' x 11'

Living 16' x 18'2''

Utility

Living Area 1603 sq.ft. Garage 446 sq.ft. Dimensions 41'6'' x 69' 1000 SERIES www.AssociatedDesigns.com

Garage 19'8'' x 21'6''

Dining 16' x 10' Entry Kitchen

Covered Porch

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019 A13

arts & culture

Jeannine Lafrenière 14/01/1931-02/06/2019

The raft baby of the Peace

Larry Evans and remembered that while searching for gold along the Finlay River he had seen a girl about three-years-old of mixed blood living with a Beaver family, who had told James that they got her from a Blackfoot trapper. To make matters even more complicated the Beavers had met a free trader by the name of Nelson who paid the Beaver family for raising her. Garrioch learned that Nelson had adopted the little girl and had taken her to his wife in Victoria, who was not able to have children of her own. Unfortunately Mrs. Nelson died. Nelson supposedly then gave the little girl to a young couple by the name of Vinning, then living in Edmonton. Garrioch had learned that the little girl had a scar on her toe on her left foot that looked like it had been made by a sharp instrument. The Reverend had no doubt in his mind now that this was indeed the Raft Baby, but the whereabouts of her parents still remained a mystery. Garrioch chanced to meet a guy by the name of Louis Sizerman who had also heard about the Raft Baby. Since Sizerman was familiar with the country where Armson had supposedly overwintered, Garrioch had asked him to look for clues. Sizerman did. Finally, in 1890, he found a cabin almost completely hidden by a huge pine that had blown down years before. This tree had helped to preserve the cabin and its contents from prowling animals. As Sizerman entered the cabin, he was met with a grisly sight. Against the back wall were the bones of a man and beside the bed were the bones of a woman. Hanging on a projection of the wall was a diary tucked inside a piece of animal hide. Around the cabin were scattered parts of a moss bag, a child’s rattle and a shattered gun. There was no child skeleton present. Sizerman took the diary to Reverend Garrioch and, after reading it, he determined what had probably happened in the cabin. One item from Armson’s diary explained the mark on the child’s toe: “Born this day March 31, 1871, a girl perfectly formed with vocal chords in fine working condition. When Mrs. Armson’s glancing hatchet hit her toe at the mining camp at Fort St. John she inflicted a hatchet mark in duplicate for on the little toe on her daughters foot there is a perfect replica of the scar on hers.” Another item in the diary stated, “May 15, 1872...I am dying...effects of an accident. My first wife died in England...left a son now five. Write to legal firm Blake & Barstow, London England. Present wife and baby weak from starvation. The Lord will provide.” Garrioch turned the diary of the tragedy over to the Vinnings, the couple who had adopted the child, by this time a girl of 18. This lovely girl named Lillie was soon to be married to a handsome young man named Hubert Melvin, fresh over from England. The Vinnings immediately cabled the legal firm of Blake & Barstow in England stating the facts in Armson’s diary. The reply was shocking! The firm wired back that Edward Armson’s sons name was Hubert Melvin — whom Lillie was preparing to marry! Hubert Melvin was Lillie’s half brother! All is well that ends well, and happily a yer later Lillie was married to a young man named Gerald Clive, and Hubert Melvin married a charming English lady and immigrated to Calgary, Alberta.

Jeannine in her retirement

Jeannine on her wedding day, age 18

Some 25 years ago, my three grown-up brothers Raymond, Robert and Richard arrived from various locations in British Columbia to visit our mother in Hudson’s Hope. To their amazement they found her spread on the couch recovering from some mysterious ailment. This was unusual in our household because our mother had never had the luxury of being sick. There had always been too much to do. On the second day, cheeky Raymond decided to humour our mother. He started carefully measuring her with his builder’s tape. “What are you doing?” she asked suspiciously. “I’m measuring you for a box,” he responded. “What do you mean, a box?” “Well,” he said, “you’ve been lying on that sofa for two days now, so you are obviously dying.” Needless to say, Mother immediately stood up and started cooking for her boys and our father. Everyone sighed a sigh of relief. Things were back to normal. This story sums up the dynamic of the relationship between our mother and her family. Normal was a hardworking wife and mother who devoted herself entirely to the needs of others. It was perhaps a cruel stroke of fate that following this visit, one by one, Robert, then Raymond, and then our father died leaving the youngest boy Richard (and his wife Tracy) to care for our mother in her old age whilst the girls settled elsewhere. Nancy worked as a Chef in Vernon and Céline moved from Vancouver, to Los Angeles, and finally to London (UK) to follow a career as a screenwriter and novelist. When we grew up Mother not only cooked the most delicious dishes imaginable, she also made our clothes and kept a spotless home. My siblings and I lived like royalty thanks to our talented mother who could rustle up miracles with hardly any money at all. Hers was a life of total sacrifices with little joy or hope to brighten up her horizon. If I were to pin point one event that changed Mother’s life for the better, it was her eventual move from Montreal to Hudson’s Hope in 1966 to join our father who worked at the Dam. Dragging her four rebellious teenaged kids and our nine-month-old sister Nancy on a train across Canada, she bravely ventured into the unknown, embraced a strange new culture and learned a foreign language. Mother blossomed in this land in the far north of British Columbia and the rest is history. When all the kids had left home Mother threw herself into good works. She ran the Senior Club and the Thrift Shop in Hudson’s Hope, and became so successful at raising money for charities that in 1992 she won a well-deserved Confederation Medal for her significant contribution to her community. Mother never did anything in half measure. Donated clothes were mended, cleaned and ironed before being offered for sale. She was a quiet, unassuming, charming woman but nevertheless a clever businesswoman. She ran the thrift shop as if it were Harrods in London. Everything sparkled and looked fabulous. Even wealthier residents frequented the establishment and enjoyed a bargain. Mother came from good, hardy stock. Her ancestors emigrated from France in the 1600’s. Those were a brave and courageous people who were unafraid of the challenges Canada presented with its harsh winters and arid fields. Mother grew up in a large Catholic family on a remote farm in Abitibi in the far north of Quebec with her father farming the land and her mother working as the village teacher. In her youth Mother had been blessed with movie star good looks and had many admirers and yet, she remained married to our father for over 65 years until his death in 2005. She was not, however, a saint by any means. A hard taskmaster, Mother expected everyone to live up to her dizzy high standard and could be difficult and uncompromising. When she broke her arm in 2014, I flew to Hudson’s Hope to take care of her. When someone asked her whether she liked my cooking, Mother thought about it for a moment, then said: “Sometimes.” I burst out laughing. That was vintage Mother. She who could make an onion and a tomato taste heavenly expected no less of her eldest daughter. She died aged 88 years old after a fall and contracting pneumonia at the Fort St John Hospital under the meticulous care of their nurses and staff, and Doctor Waldemar Brussow. Rest in Peace, dear Mother, your work is done. You deserve your children’s gratitude for being a resourceful and generous mother and the respect of your community for your dedication and hard work. Jeannine is survived by three of her children, Nancy, Richard and Céline, 9 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren

54102

don’t remember when I first heard this story but it has always fascinated me. Over the years I have heard it numerous times from different sources, and what fascinates me the most is the fact it changes very little in each of the tellings. This leads me to believe the story is true, or close to it. The story was put into writing first by the person who gathered the information and fit it all together, Reverend Alfred Garrioch. Reverend Garrioch was an Anglican Missionary who had postings in the Peace River District of B.C. and Alberta in the 1800s. The story’s original title was called “A Hatchet Mark In Duplicate” and is available at Amazon on occasion, or through fadedpage.com (thanks, Arlene!). It’s also printed in the collection “Peacemakers of North Peace”, which is available for purchase at the Fort St. John North Peace Museum. In the spring of 1872, a trapper named Blackfoot John had been travelling along the Peace River all morning and had decided to stop for a break. He had hoped to meet up with his sister and her husband, Edward Armson. The couple would likely be heading downstream with their furs from the winter. They had supposedly been trapping on the South Pine River. As he was preparing his afternoon tea he glanced towards the river and saw what appeared to be a raft with a red flag. He pushed off in his dugout canoe to check and see what it was for sure, and when he reached the raft he was shocked to discover a baby onboard. He had no way of knowing it was his niece and, at that moment, his sister was comforting her dying husband, herself dying of starvation. All that concerned Trapper John at that moment was to feed the starving baby. He hurriedly boiled a duck that he recently shot, made some soup, and fed the baby a few drops. Fortunately, a camp of Beaver people were close by and a mother at the camp took the baby and nursed her. As John could see the baby was in good hands he pushed off heading south. But before he left, an elderly native lady pointed to the scar on the baby’s toe and said that the scar was “older than the baby.” John not understanding waved goodbye. A little more than a year before John discovered the baby, an English gentleman by the name of Edward Armson had been panning for gold near Fort St. John. He was married to a beautiful Blackfoot woman who had only one physical defect — a scar on her toe on her left foot, the result of an accident when she was splitting wood. When the gold dried up on the Peace River, Armson and his wife were of the first to leave. That was the last time anyone saw them alive. Seven years later, the Reverend Garrioch was on his way to Montreal when he met a young couple named Vinning who invited him to stay with them for a few days in St. Paul, Minnesota. There, he learned that their eight-year-old daughter came from a free trader they had met in Edmonton, who in turn had got her from a native camp on the Peace River. When Garrioch returned to Edmonton from Montreal in the spring, the guide he hired to get him back to Dunvegan was none other than Trapper John. While he was being guided back to Dunvegan, Trapper John told him about the baby that he had found on the river many years earlier in the Peace River country. He asked Reverend Garrioch if, when he was in that area, he would make inquiries about his sister and her husband. Reverend Garrioch was curious as to whether there could be some connection between the Vinning’s daughter and the “Raft Baby” that John had saved. Reverend Garrioch was travelling between Dunvegan and Fort Vermilion with a man by the name of Valentine James, who had been at the Fort St. John mining camp in 1870 and knew the Armsons. He had also apparently heard the “Raft Baby” story

Rotarians at Work

Local Rotarians help many community groups with our stellar BBQ team at the events

Larry Evans is a former fire chief, city councillor, and lifelong historian living in Fort St. John.

Have News ??? email Us news@ahnfsj.ca

Rotary

Club of Dawson Creek

Meets Tuesdays, NOON At The GEORGE DAWSON INN

Rotary

Club of Dawson Creek Sunrise

Meets Fridays, 7:00 a.m. At The DC CURLING RINK

A14 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

ARTS & CULTURE

Temerarious Tabias

School’s out forever NORMA RRAE Teacher Bal gave a school assignment to complete for the last week of school. Everyone got to pick their own partners and Tabias chose Sam Wu. He didn’t choose her because she had the nicest hair or the brightest eyes. He didn’t even choose her because she always had the best lunches to trade with. He chose her because the project involved math. A lot of Math. The project was to build a robot and Tabias knew that Sam Wu was his best chance at building a winning robot. The task was quite simple, in theory. They only had to make the robot push a ball across the gymnasium floor. Tabias reassured Sam Wu that he would supply all the gadgets and all she had to do was the blueprints. Soon, the robot was ready and dubbed Bot. Step Mother drove them to school on the day the project was due. “Drive slower Mom!” Tabias exclaimed from the backseat as the top heavy robot threatened to topple over. “Mrs. Tabias, please. I have no time to make another Bot,” Sam Wu complained. “Beep, buzz, click,” Bot joined in the protest. “It’s all these other crazy drivers on the road,” Step Mother retorted before sticking her head out the window and yelling something about not enough coffee. Or soggy Wheaties for breakfast. Tabais and Sam Wu chuckled to each other but quickly turned serious when Step Mother slammed on the brakes. All arms flew out to stop Bot from falling and breaking. The van stopped and the kids grumbled as they exited: “Thanks, mom,”; “Thanks, Mrs. Tabias,”; “Mmmeep.” Bot positioned himself on the sidewalk, looking up toward the school. Kids ran past him on all sides. He was the size of a dishwasher (gut-

ted) with old toy tank tracks to move, courtesy of Sister’s pile of destruction, and his face was painted on the side of Father’s old toaster, the one with the fork permanently stuck in the bottom. Step Mother drove off, and Tabias, Sam Wu, and Bot began their trek to the school entrance. Unfortunately for everyone, Tabias’ arch enemy Taylor, and his partner Tammy Wang, walked up with their robot that looked store bought. “Bucket of bolts I see?” Taylor laughed and smacked Bot on the back. The fork sprung free from the toaster head and caused the dial to drop to ‘burn’. Bot’s hands shifted into the mechanical arms and turned to flamethrowers. “Look what you did now,” Taylor laughed as he walked away. Tammy Wang stood frozen in her place as the flamethrowers appeared from Bot’s arms. Balls of fire began shooting toward the school, the fire alarm sounded and the school was evacuated. Kids were screaming and running. Tabias looked to Sam Wu for help, but her face fell and she turned to run away. “Bot!” Tabias hollered in the angriest voice he could muster, but it was apparent Bot wouldn’t hear him over the screaming and burning. Teacher Bal appeared beside Tabias, stepped toward Bot and clicked the toaster knob to ‘done’. Bot dropped his arms limply and his flamethrowers pulled back into his arms as he stood in silence. “Always make a kill switch,” Teacher Bal said. “Does that mean I failed the year end project?” Tabias inquired. “Considering the schools on fire?” Norma Rrae is an author based in Fort St. John. Read more of her works at notmewriting.com.

How do you learn as a family? Tell us #FamilyLiteracyDay fl Have a shapes scavenger hunt, taking turns ﬁnding shapes indoors and outdoors. Then make each shape with your body — kids and adults work together.

LEARN AT PLAY, EVERY DAY.

Imagine your family is anywhere in the world! Pick a spot on the map and learn about that country together online.

Find more ways to learn at play as a family at www.FamilyLiteracyDay.ca

HOROSCOPE ARIES (MARCH 21 TO APRIL 19) For the next four weeks, your focus will be on home, family and your private life. Enjoy every chance to cocoon at home and relax among familiar surroundings. TAURUS (APRIL 20 TO MAY 20) The pace of your days will accelerate in the next four weeks because you have things to do, places to go and people to see! You will read, write and study more. GEMINI (MAY 21 TO JUNE 20) Money and cash flow are a major focus in the next four weeks. Look for ways to boost your earnings. Be wise in spending CANCER (JUNE 21 TO JULY 22) The Sun is in your sign for the next four weeks recharging your batteries for the rest of the year! You will attract people and favorable circumstances to you. LEO (JULY 23 TO AUG. 22) Your year is coming to an end as your birthday approaches; hence, next month is the perfect time for you to be introspective. How was this past year? How do you want your new year to be different? VIRGO (AUG. 23 TO SEPT. 22) Your interaction with friends and groups will increase in the next four weeks. Use this time to bounce your dreams and hopes for the future off someone.

For Thursday June 20 2019

LIBRA (SEPT. 23 TO OCT. 22) Bosses, parents and VIPs will be impressed with you in the next four weeks. Use this to advance your agenda!

Talking Over a Loud Speaker

Dear Annie: I need to vent here. I have a group of girlfriends, and there is one, “Melanie,” who dominates the conSCORPIO (OCT. 23 TO NOV. 21) versation. Melanie’s voice is Get outta Dodge in the next louder than mine so if I am tellfour weeks, cuz you need a ing a story or asking a question, change of scenery. Expand she will just blare out whatever your world through travel or is on her mind. Another annoyfurther study. Talk to people ing habit: Even if someone is from other cultures. talking directly to Melanie, she SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22 TO DEC. 21) often starts turning her head Because you will be intense away from that person and tryand focused on issues in the ing to listen to the other girls’ next four weeks, everything will conversations. Last night was be black-and-white and more the final straw. I am finding passionate! myself not wanting to particiCAPRICORN (DEC. 22 TO JAN. 19) pate in lunches or dinners out when she is there. How do I tell Because the Sun will be her to “shut up”? A few of the opposite your sign for the next other girls feel the same as I do. four weeks, this means you will -- Timid Voice need more rest. It also means Dear Timid Voice: The thing you will focus on partners. about loud people is that they AQUARIUS (JAN. 20 TO FEB. 18) usually don’t realize they’re beStart thinking about how to ing loud. Sure, they might know manage your life in the next that they have a tendency to be four weeks. What can you do to loud, as some friends and famibe more effective and efficient? ly have likely pointed this out to How are you doing at the art of them over the years. But in the living? actual moment when they are raising their voices 10 decibels PISCES (FEB. 19 TO MARCH 20) In the next four weeks, you will above the rest, they lack selfawareness. have more fun and pleasure! Slip away on a vacation if possible; enjoy sports, fun activities with children and playful times with friends.

All that is to say, Timid Voice, that it’s time to speak up. If you’re sharing a story and Melanie starts in, take a deep

Annie Lane DEAR ANNIE

breath, smile and say: “Hold that thought, Melanie. As I was saying...” Repeatedly and kindly bringing Melanie’s attention to the fact that she’s interrupting should -- hopefully -- quell the behavior, in time. If not, a candid conversation should do the trick: Ask if she realizes that sometimes she interrupts you, and that it makes you feel less heard. Any friend worth having would make an effort to dial it down after that. Dear Annie: Please remind people to choose their words carefully with someone who grieves. What you think they need to hear may be what you needed when grieving. Saying, “I’m sorry for your loss” may seem inadequate, but it is OK. You don’t know what they need, or want. I had two different pastors say things with no malicious intent that I found difficult. Everyone’s grief is on a different timeline. Telling someone they “need to pull up their big boy or girl pants” may wound, giving them the added burden of forgiving you.

If they ask for something, please consider it, even if you say no. If you say no, do it gently, or maybe ask someone else to help. One pastor hesitated about my request for small meals. When I called her to say it was OK if she didn’t, she said: “Good. That’s really a matter of self-care.” When she experienced loss, she had a loving husband and family around her. I do not. And please, if you cannot cope with someone’s display of emotion, don’t say, “Get a hold of yourself.” Again, a simple, “I am so sorry for your sorrow” will suffice. I will forgive, and prayerfully forget. We all must when words hurt that were not meant to do so, but I hope your readers will be a bit more aware of what I’m writing about. Thank you. -- 20 Days Into Grief. Dear 20 Days: I am so, so sorry for your loss. Your letter might lessen the suffering of at least one person by teaching others how best to be compassionate. Thanks for your honesty. 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, JUNE 20, 2019 A15

Coffee Corner $1,189,000 13793 Golf Course Road MLS# R2316215

$1,895,000 13134 Lakeshore Dr, MLS# R2301347

$699,000 13559 281 Road MLS# R2365322

One of a kind custom executive lakefront home on 4.67 acres. This prestigious 5000sq ft beauty also includes a 40x60 shop,

Stunning waterfront property with high-end features, located next to the Charlie Lake Golf Course.,

Gorgeous family home 15 mins from Fort St John on 4.4 private acres set up for horses.

$2,200,000 9216 72 Street, MLS# C8025703

$989,000 9305 111 Street, MLS# C8025627

$12.79/sq. ft + NNN 202 10130 100 Ave, MLS# C8021699

Prime C-4 zoned 7.06 acre lot on the east bypass in Fort St. John. Ready for development.

2.75 acres of prime land in the city limits zoned M1. Fenced and ready to go..

TODAYS PUZZLE

Downtown core, second story, updated office/ retail space In 100th Ave in Fort St. John. Over 1400 sq. ft. of office space.

$354,900 10520 89 Street MLS# R2362521

Excellent family home located in the NE end of Fort St. John w/ large double garage with heated slab.

$1,500,000 10231 85 Ave, MLS# C8017317

Industrial 4.5 acres completely chain link fenced. Yard is compacted and graveled with gate.

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

• • • • • • • • •

ALKALINE BARE ROOT STOCK BUD COMPOST CUTTINGS DISEASE FERTILIZER FLORIBUNDA FUNGAL

• • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • •

GRANDIFLORA HERITAGE IRRIGATION MINIATURE MULCH NITROGEN PESTS PHOSPHORUS POTASSIUM

PROPAGATING ROSE SEEDS SOIL STEM TRANSPLANTING ZONE

TODAY’S PUZZLE 13. Witnesses

21. Supplies to excess

23. This street produces nightmares 25. Cool!

26. Basics

27. Type of jazz 28. Remove

29. Seaport in Finland

32. Large formation of aircraft

33. You should eat three every day 34. Dips feet into

36. Patti Hearst’s captors 37. Swiss river 38. Talk

40. Humorous conversation 41. Gurus

43. Actress Gretchen 44. Hitters need one 46. Offer

15. Norwegian parish 16. Wings

17. “Family City, USA” 18. Prague

19. Tottenham footballer Alli 20. Cakes

22. A way to save for retirement 23. Good gosh!

24. HBO Dust Bowl series

27. ELO drummer Bevan 30. Kids’ game

31. Computer giant

32. Luxury automaker 35. Made disappear

37. Mandela’s party

38. Greek personification of Earth

42. Greek mountain 43. Disfigure

44. Ramble on

45. Partner to carrot 46. Figure 47. Mock

48. Former CIA

3. Commoner

4. It can be poisonous

5. Recipe measurement 6. Eager

7. City in Finland

8. Acting appropriately 9. Pitching stat

49. Salts

10. Cops wear one

55. Never sleeps

12. Lacking hair

52. Bleated

56. Cavalry sword

11. Evergreen genus

47. Flower cluster

49. The Navy has them

Material for your weekly game page

50. Palmlike plant

51. Vaccine developer 52. Guys (slang) 53. Jai __, sport

What has ears? but can’t hear

54. Assert

57. Beloved movie pig

58. __ Clapton, musician 59. Gamble

61. Hit lightly

62. Carpenter’s tool

60. Scottish island

61. Cyprinid fishes 63. Italian seaport 64. Fruit tree

65. Old World lizard

66. U. of Miami mascot 67. Gentlemen

68. Cover with drops, as with dew 69. Don’t stick it out

PREVIOUS PUZZLES ANSWERS

14. Language spoken in India

41. Healthy lunch

2. A distinctive quality surrounding someone

1. Broken branch

START

Why did the student eat his homework?

A: The teacher called it a piece of cake.

10. Leans in for apples

CLUES DOWN

40. Where to put groceries

What did one plat say to the other? e

5. Cleveland baseball team

FINISH 39. Semitic lords

A: Dinner is on me

1. Drains

A: A cornfield.

CLUES ACROSS

A16 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

arts & culture

Theatre renovations underway matt preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca

A massive renovation of the North Peace Cultural Centre theatre is underway, and if you’re looking to take home a seat of local history now is your chance. The theatre is closed for the summer as the centre installs 400 brand new seats, new carpets and stage drapes, and upgrades the theatre’s lighting system. It’s the first renovation of the theatre since it opened in 1992. “These renovations are long overdue and we are excited for the community to see a brand new theatre this fall,” said Oliver Hachmeister, operations manager. The cultural centre has more than 300 used seats available by donation for residents interested in taking home a piece of the theatre’s history.

The fixed seats are suitable for home theatres, or other uses. “We would rather see them reused than recycled,” Hachmeister said. Those interested can call the cultural centre to reserve as many as they would like by June 30, and the seats must be picked up by July 15. Tom’s Construction is the prime contractor for the renovations. The renovations are being supported by capital funding grants from the city, B.C.’s community gaming grants program, and the Northern Development Initiative Trust. The cultural society is also in the midst of a fundraising campaign that aims to raise $160,000 from seat sponsorships in support of the project. More than 140 seats have been sponsored so far. For more information, call the cultural centre at 250-785-1992. matt preprost photo

North Peace Cultural Centre theatre technician Michael Leigh removes some of the first seats from the theatre on June 13, 2019. Renovations continue through the summer.

ENDS JUNE 30

500

honda bonus ON 2019 CIVIC

2019 CIVIC SEDAN TOURING

0.99 LEASE FROM

CIVIC

Standard features include:

ECON Mode & Eco Assist™

FOR 48 MONTHS

Honda Sensing™ Safety Technologies

Multi-Angle Rearview Camera

Apple CarPlay™ & Android Auto™

2019 HR-V TOURING

Dealer # 1104

HR-V

0.99 LEASE FROM

2019 CR-V TOURING

BEST-IN-CLASS COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY

FOR 24 MONTHS

CR-V

0.99 LEASE FROM

FOR 24 MONTHS

250-785-1293

VISIT US AND FINDFax: YOUR250-787-0377 HONDA TODAY 8708 100 Ave Fort St. John, BC V1J 1X1

sales@hondafsj.com

#Limited time lease offer is from Honda Canada Finance Inc. (HCFI), on approved credit. The lease rate offer applies to a new 2019 Civic Sedan Touring (FC1F9KKN) for a 48-month period. Example: 24-month term for a total of 104 weekly payments of $123.03, leased at 0.99% APR. 40,000-kilometre allowance (12 cents/km excess charge). Total lease obligation is $12,795.23. Lease payment includes freight and PDI of $1,655 and applicable fees, but does not include lien registration fee (up to $84.53 in certain regions) and lien registering agent fee (up to $5.75), which are due at time of delivery. No down-payment required. Taxes, insurance, license, and registration fees (all of which may vary by region) are extra. Offer ends June 30, 2019 and is subject to change or cancellation without notice. β “Honda Bonus” lease or finance bonus of $500 on select in-stock 2019 Civic models is available only from June 1-30, 2019 on lease or finance transactions from HCFI on approved credit only, deducted from the negotiated selling price after taxes. Excluding Type R. Dealer may sell/lease for less. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Offer available only at participating Honda dealers in Canada. Offers valid on select new in-stock 2019 vehicles. While quantities last. Models may not be equipped as shown and are for illustration purposes only. None of the features we describe are intended to replace the driver’s responsibility to exercise due care while driving. Drivers should not use handheld devices or operate certain vehicle features unless it is safe and legal to do so. Some features have technological limitations. Apple CarPlay is provided by, and a trademark of, Apple Inc. Android Auto is provided by, and a trademark of, Google Inc. Only compatible with certain devices and operating systems. Cellular data and/or voice charges may apply, including roaming charges and/or other amounts charged by your wireless carrier. Use of the Apple CarPlay logo means that a vehicle user interface meets Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this vehicle or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this product with iPhone, iPod, or iPad may affect wireless performance. For additional feature information, limitations and restrictions, please visit www.honda.ca/disclaimers and refer to the vehicle’s Owner’s Manual. © 2019 Honda Canada Inc. Visit Honda.ca or your Honda dealer for details.

Sports & Leisure

THURSDAY JUNE 20, 2019 CONTACT US 250-785-5631 editor@ahnfsj.ca

SPECIAL O GOLF A SUCCESS

HIT TO PASS RESULTS

SPORTS B2

SPORTS B3

9224-100 Street, Fort St. John, V1J 3X2

PHONE: 250-785-0463

Tina Peters wins national speed skating award

Remember where you were

DILLON GIANCOLA sports@ahnfsj.ca

When Tina Peters began volunteering with the Fort St. John Elks 10 years ago after her daughter Brooke took up speed skating, she never imagined she should be where she is in the sport today. Peters was invited to Winnipeg for Speed Skating Canada’s 2019 Congress and Awards Gala on June 8, where she received the SSC Official’s Award of Excellence. “I never thought this was a possibility, and it’s a huge honour,” Peters said. Peters is a Level 3 Competitor Steward. Her duties consist mainly in recording the official times of skaters, as well as setting up the meet, and organizing and re-seeding the skaters in pairings and groups. Most importantly, it’s all volunteer-based. “I love the sport. Everyone I’ve met through it is amazing and I do it for the athletes. They need someone,” Peters said. Peters has done events all over B.C. and Canada, as well as Fort St. John. Most recently she worked the 2019 Canada Winter Games in Red Deer. She and other officials typically work at

Dillon Giancola THE DILL ZONE

SPEED SKATING CANADA PHOTO

Tina Peters receives the Speed Skating Canada (SSC) Official’s Award of Excellence from SSC Director Dennis Leclerc at the 2019 SSC Congress and Awards Gala in Winnipeg on June 8, 2019.

least 40 hours before the events start. While it takes a lot of work and dedication, Peters loves what she does and isn’t stopping anytime soon. “I’ve never felt dread about talking to certain people or going to another meet. It feels like one big family and I’ve really enjoyed it,” Peters said. Peters said her ideal goal would be to record an ISU

or Olympic competition, and she loves the national events the most. “The national meets are so exciting and intense, and you really don’t want to screw up because it could be someone’s livelihood at stake,” Peters explained. She credits the support of Wim Kok and Dee-Ann Stickel, among others, for helping her get started in the sport and for being an

inspiration to get where she is today. Volunteering is near and dear to Peter’s heart, as she says the volunteers are what keeps the kids able to participate in their chosen sport. “Us volunteers can make all the difference in an athlete’s and kid’s lives. If it wasn’t for us, the athletes wouldn’t be able to do what they do,” she said.

Steve Sadownik run honours late coach with large turnout DAVE LUENEBERG Alaska Highway News

Close to 100 runners and walkers came out on Saturday, June 15 for the 2nd annual Friends of Steve Sadownik Memorial Run — the event in memory of the long-time community volunteer who passed away suddenly of natural causes on June 16 of last year. “He was an amazing gentleman. He impacted the community hugely,” said Laurie Cardinal with the Vertical Slam Ultimate Challenge, the group that established the run in his honour in 2018. While one of Sadownik’s passions was long-distance running, and the symbolic reason behind this particular event, Cardinal says it was his coaching of the Inconnu Swim Club that many will likely remember him for. “For years, he took them (the swimmers) to the national level. He put the city on the map.” Cardinal believes it was that drive that translated into his running successes. “He was an amazing ultrarunner. He placed first in his class in many “ultras” across Canada and in the world.” She also describes her

departed friend as very humble. “He would talk to anybody. Would always have a big smile. He would stop whatever he was doing to help anybody,” said Cardinal. Choosing the location for the course at Fish Creek was by no means a coincidence, as Cardinal pointed out. “It was one of his favourite trails. He always had a quote he would tell fellow (local) runners. The worst ultramarathon in the world would be like doing multiple loops on Fish Creek...so that’s what we’re doing today,” she said with a laugh. He was also known for being a smooth and quiet DAVE LUENEBERG PHOTO runner, she joked. “We’d be out here running and talking Laurie Cardinal with the Vertical Slam Ultimate Challenge, the group and he would nip up behind behind the 12-hour Friends of Steve Sadownik Memorial Run, on the us and scare the bejesus out trails of the Fish Creek Community Forest June 15, 2019. of us. Huge wave. Huge smile every time he saw you.” “The fact there was no fitness goals. Although final numbers pressure and there was “Steve would have loved aren’t quite in, about $1,800 no time limit, was well- that,” Cardinal said. was raised at this year’s received,” said Cardinal. Relatives and friends of event. Some of that total, Although it was spread the Sadownik family are now Cardinal said, came from over a 12-hour window working on a special project people who just came down (noon to midnight) with the City of Fort St. John to the community forest to participants could do the and a potential sponsor. drop off a donation. four-kilometre circuit as Part of the money raised this She said feedback from many times as they wanted past weekend to go towards the participants, who did to before stopping or take a establishing a memorial take part in the run/walk, break and then continuing bench in honour of Steve was extremely positive, on; some even told Cardinal and his wife, Nicole, who especially in the way the how events like this are was lost to cancer only one fundraiser was set up. helping them reach their short year earlier.

2016 Ram 1500 Sport 8spd Only

Check out our website for more pre-owned inventory of quality vehicles

$36,995

Stk#18-05A

2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 Only

o you remember where you were when you first saw your favourite team win a championship? Now that the Raptors have finally won the NBA championship, I can actually say yes, I do remember. Before that, I had never seen one of my team’s win it all. It’s no secret I take sports losses seriously, and glorify my loveable loser ways. I pretend like I’m the only one who’s ever been sad when their team fails to win a championship, and act like I’m the only one who cheered for four losing teams my entire life. But that’s not the case. What I realized in this Raptors’ playoff run, especially the last two series when the rest of Canada caught on, is that most Canadian sports fans are in the same boat. None of us have seen our favourite Canadian hockey team win in at least 26 years, and we haven’t seen the Jays win it all in what feels like a lifetime. However, now that we’ve seen the Toronto Raptors win, I’m not sure any of us would change the past. It doesn’t mean enduring the letdowns was easy. I’ll never forget how upset I was when the Leafs blew a 4-1 lead to the Boston Bruins with only 10 minutes left in Game 7, or when the Brooklyn Nets beat the Raptors in Game 7. The Toronto Raptors, especially, felt like a hopeless case. They have been a really good team for six seasons now, but none of us really thought they would win a championship this year. I have to admit, early on, I didn’t know if I had what it took to stick with the Raptors. Right before Vince Carter was traded, and it seemed like Antonio Davis was the best player, it was pretty rough. I stopped watching for a couple of years, and fully became a Detroit Pistons fan, culminating in a moment where I wore a Chauncey Billups jersey to Disney World and somebody told me he was the best point guard in the league. That person was wrong, but it made me feel good, that now I was finally associated in some small way with a winner, even if it was forced. I used to only remember the disappointments, the failures, and the losses. But now I’ll remember where I was when the Toronto Raptors beat the Golden State Warriors to win it all. I’ll remember how nervous I was before each game, and I’ll remember all the times in the playoffs I didn’t think they would actually win. I’ll remember how much fun it was to watch them win in Fort St. John of all places, in a room full of loud, rowdy basketball fans. I’ll remember rejoicing with and hugging people I didn’t know even a week prior. I’ll even remember feeling strange for wearing a long sleeve shirt with shorts — my T-shirts were in the wash and I spent way too much time questioning my outfit. I still don’t know if it’s OK to wear a long sleeve shirt with shorts. I don’t know what’s to come for me as a fan, who will win and who will lose. But I do know that I’ll always remember where I was when the Toronto Raptors finally lifted the Larry O’Brien Trophy. I hope you remember too.

$31,995

www.inlandautocenter.com

Stk#19-243A

11600-8th Street, Dawson Creek, BC • 250-782-5507 AUTO CENTRE LTD

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE WWW.INLANDAUTOCENTER.COM

B2 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Local Sports

Special Olympics Golf raises $15,000 dillon giancola sports@ahnfsj.ca

Fort St. John’s Special Olympics chapter continues to do impressive and important things, including sending gold medalist Sheryl Jakubowski to the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi in March. And the club isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Special Olympics held its annual golf tournament at Lone Wolf on June 15, bringing in $15,000 to go towards venue rentals for practice and travel accommodations for athletes. This year’s tournament raised $5,000 more than each of the last two tournaments. “Our athletes rely on us to do these fundraising events to cover costs. Without fundraising, our sport programs would not exist,” said Kathy Turney, the local co-ordinator with Special Olympics. The athletes are very appreciative of the support the tournament and

Special Olympics receive each year. “To us, it’s a big deal. We would never be able to go to the world championships and other places without people showing up and helping us,” said Levi Fowler, a local golfer with Special Olympics. This is Fowler’s first year both playing golf and being involved with Special Olympics, and he’s loving every second of it. “I’ve always been interested in the sport, and I had a lot of friends in Special Olympics so I thought, ‘What the heck, I should do something fun.’ It’s pretty good so far,” Fowler said. Next up for the athletes is a track meet in Smithers at the end of June. In September, a number of athletes, including Fowler, will head to Quesnel for an invitational golf tournament. “The 2019-20 season will be a year of summer sport regional qualifying events to determine who will represent Region 8 in the next summer provincial games,” said Turney.

supplied photo

Levi Fowler, in his first year playing golf with Special Olympics, had a great time at the Special Olympics Golf Tournament at Lone Wolf on June 15, 2019, where his team finished six under par.

Pro Tips

What exactly is a golf handicap?

golfer’s handicap allows players to compete with others on a level playing field, regardless of their playing ability. It is a numerical measure of a golfers potential ability. A common misconception is that a handicap is based on your average score. In reality a handicap is based on an average of a players best scores, generally the top 40%. A handicap is calculated using the players scores and particular ratings of the golf course. To establish, golfers will submit their scores through a golfcanada.com membership. These are made available as part of your clubs annual dues or can be purchased separately through the Golf Canada website. Golf courses range in difficulty

Larry Ramstad and as a result a player’s handicap may vary from one course to another. Each course will have “Handicap Conversion Tables” where golfers can cross reference their handicap index to any course and the particular tee length played from. Most tournaments will require players to have a valid handicap index in order to compete. This allows the tournament committee to set groupings of players based on their handicap to best suit the tournament

R0021217976

format. A regular stroke play tournament will reward player(s) with the lowest score - their gross score as well as the players with the best score relative to their handicap - referred to as their net score. Not only does a handicap allow one another to compete together fairly, but more importantly it becomes a benchmark for all golfers to try and improve upon. Golfers who play at the highest level are referred to as playing to scratch or having a handicap of zero. Recent statistics show that scratch golfers make up only 1.5%, and golfers who can frequently break a score of 80 are around the top 20% of players. About 75% of golfers are able to play

bogey golf, with a handicap index of 18 or better. These statistics are based on data provided by the United States Golf Association. Next year, a “World Handicap System” will be introduced to provide a more balanced and consistent system to the many handicap systems presently being used around the world. The aim of the new system is to encourage more golfers to obtain and maintain a handicap. It will also enable golfers of different abilities, genders and nationalities to transport their handicap globally. Many clubs have a golf course mobile app equipped with an electronic scorecard, which can be linked directly to the Golf Canada handicap membership.

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

This Week in Pro Golf

Top News Stories

Answer : c) Jeff Gordon

This Week’s Cup Series Race: Toyota/Save Mart 350

B4 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Local Sports

Salmond, Hubl win chuckwagons and chariots at Fort St. John Rodeo The All Pro Chuckwagon and All Pro Chariot circuits crowned their champions on June 16 after three days of competing at the 2019 Fort St. John Rodeo. Neil Salmond won the chuckwagon race with a total time of 3:12:00, more than four seconds ahead of second place. Zac Hubl won the chariot race with a time of 3:12:65. Here are the top 10 finishers in each event: Chuckwagons 1. Neil Salmond - 3:12:00 2. Rene Salmond - 3:16:38 3. Fred Eagles - 3:17:75 4. Barb Salmond - 3:19:47

5. Linda Shiplet-Hubl - 3:20:18 6. Brett Fillion (B) - 3:22:53 7. Brett Fillion (A) - 3:23:10 8. Marvin Hubl - 3:25:12 9. Malcolm Apsassin - 3:26:90 10. Russel Apsassin - 3:27:40 Chariots 1. Zac Hubl - 3:12:65 2. Martina Hubl - 3:15:47 3. Linda Shiplet-Hubl - 3:17:02 4. Bruce Fillion - 3:17:16 5. Rene Salmond - 3:20:18 6. Ken Merrill - 3:20:82 7. Malcolm Apsassin - 3:25:73 8. Junior Apsassin - 3:30:28 9. Denton Scott - 3:32:27 10. Brett Fillion - 3:33:29

norbert stoll photo

Neil Salmond, winner of the All Pro Chuckwagons event at the Fort St. John Rodeo, finishes his final run on June 16, 2019.

Bo Hedges wheelchair basketball challenge promotes inclusion The annual Bo Hedges wheelchair basketball challenge was hosted at Ma Murray school on Thursday with more than 30 people taking part. Attendees ranged in age from three to 55, including students who stayed after school, as well as the Hedges family. Everyone took a spin and shot some hoops in a wheelchair, raising their awareness of the challenges in playing a sport using a wheelchair. The game became furiously competitive when the local forest fire fighters dropped in. This is the third year they have participated and find the event a highlight of their summers in Fort St. John by being able to interact with the community and play against each other. The game was paused briefly for the final minute of the Raptors game, which was projected on the gym wall for everyone to enjoy.

An added bonus was that Hedges was at the event while he was home for a short break from his intense summer of practices and international game competitions. He and the Canadian men’s team are preparing for the 2020 Paralympic qualifying tournament, Para Pan American Games, hosted by Peru in August. The Paralympics in Japan would be Bo’s fourth games. “It’s great to see everyone enjoying playing,” Hedges said. “Coming home and being able to spend a night with family, friends and the community playing the sport I love means a lot to me.” Thanks to Pacific Sport and the City of Fort St. John, which provide the wheelchairs for these types of events and to schools within the area, promoting inclusivity for children who are not able bodied. — Angela De Smit

dave lueneberg photo

Malcolm Apsassin from the Blueberry First Nation (right) goes head-to-head in Heat 5 of the All Pro chariot races with Alhambra, Alberta’s Martina Hubl during the opening night of the Fort St. John Rodeo on June 14, 2019. Apsassin finished just 0.24 seconds behind Hubl.

Prespatou 4-H Community Club Hey everyone! This is Melissa Dick from the Prespatou 4-H Community Club, this 4-H year has gone by very quickly for us 4-Hers and it’s only a few more weeks until it’ll be over :( Last month, our club took part in a Club level and district level Judging rally! It was very successful, and four of our members placed well enough to go on to the PNE in Vancouver this summer! We’ve had one mini rally, which is when we practice leading our project animal with our Club. Most of our steers have almost reached a finishing weight or have completely and we didn’t even have too many wild escapees! Next step is clipping and grooming! To everyone who has followed 4-H before, we are having our annual Achievement Days on July 5th and 6th. To those who haven’t been following 4-H for that long, the North Peace 4-H district has an annual Achievement Days in July every year. For Achievement Days us members of the North Peace 4-H district get our animals

trained and halter-broke to show and be judged at the Achievement Days. The event is two days long and there are multiple shows that the animals appear in, such as, grooming, showmanship (which is for the members and the animals to be judged based on cleanliness and showmanship), and also conformation. After these classes are done we move onto the sale where the animals are up for auction after they have been judged and placed. This event is on July 5th and 6th 2019, so please feel free to come on down to support the North Peace 4-H district on July 5th and 6th at the North Peace Fair Grounds.

MELISSA DICK Prespatou 4H Club Reporter

SYDNEY LOEWEN

Buddy Reporter, Prespatou 4H Community Club

Thank you for reading and I hope you are enjoying the great summer weather! The Prespatou 4-H Community Club would like to thank, Home Hardware for sponsoring this article. Melissa Dick, Sydney Loewen, Prespatou 4-h Community Club.

Our clubs’ ﬁrst Mini Rally this year (June 5th).

Proud Supporter of Local 4H

9820 108 St, Fort St John, BC V1J 0A7

(250) 787-0371

52578

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019 B5

LOCAL SPORTS

DILLON GIANCOLA PHOTO

Luke Hopkins, Charlie Hopkins, Katie Hopkins and Travis Torsti enjoy a round of golf to celebrate Father’s Day at the Fort St. John Links Parent-Child Tournament on June 16, 2019.

2019 Commercial League standings Fort St. John Links Red Division Westar All-Stars - 12 Doug’s Duffers - 11.5 Kokanee Six Pack - 10.5 Links Loopers - 10.5 Injunuity Oilfield - 9 Discover Canada Tours - 9 Independant Plumbing - 5 Short Strokes - 2.5 Blue Division The Channel 4 News Team - 13 Safety First Spare Parts - 11 Freedom Physiotherapy - 9 Petrogas Solutions - 6.5 Balls to the Wall - 6.5 Ideal Office Solutions - 5.5 Grip It & Rip It - 5.5 Missing Links - 4.5 Lone Wolf 1. Big Chief Ventures - 21 2. Brads Furniture and Appl. - 19 T3. BC Rail Old-Timers - 17 T3. City of FSJ - 17 5. TD Pencil Pushing Punks - 16 6. Big Charles Safety - 15.5 7. Ram Oilfield - 15 T8. Rogers Trucking - 14 T8. Enbridge Smashies - 14 T8. PJ Oilfield Services - 14 T11. Tirecraft - 13 T11. Catapult - 13 T11. McLean Oilfield - 13 T14. Cameron River Logistics - 12 T14. TransPeace Construction - 12 T16. Alpine Glass - 11.5

T16. Team Beer - 11.5 18. Bold Promotions - 11 19. Zedi - 10 T20. Weapons of Grass Dest. - 9 T20. Tailored Vac - 9 T20. Smokey and the Bandits - 9 23. Arctic Spas - 8 24. Anderson Water Services - 7 25. Canfor Taylor Pulp - 6 26. Smith Fuel - 4.5 27. Brandt Tractor - 2 Lakepoint A Side T1. Gerber Transport - 13 T1. Cal-Tech Surveys - 13 3. Wonowon Water Solutions - 11 4. Spartan Control - 10 T5. Peace Country Rentals - 8 T5. Candoo Oilfield - 8 7. Black Ace Supply - 7 T8. KW Enterprise LTD - 6 T8Pimm’s Production - 6 T10. Bacso Muscle Therapy - 4 T10. D. Bauer Mechanical - 4 T10. Titan Energy Services - 4 13. Petron Communications - 2 B Side 1. DRS - 20 2. Dude Where’s My Par? - 18 T3. Grip It and Sip It - 14 T3. REMAX Old Boys - 14 T5. Northern Metalic - 4 T5. Vector - 4 T7. McRae Powder Coating - 2 T7. IMI Critical Engineering - 2

SAFE AT SECOND

LOCAL • LOCAL • LOCAL

DO YOU WANT THE NEWS? $1.50 inc.

g FORT

seRvin

DAY, JUne

2, 2016

Vol. 73,

sT. JOHn,

B.C. AnD

wayn alaskahigh

“The

aper in

That Gives

497

new

R0011217

a Tinke

r’s Dam

About

the North

Peace .”

KePt rcMP with BUsy in 2015 criMe

the World

racing drag n seaso with starts a roar sPORTs

We’ve got the news covered! From local events to top stories that affect you, we will ensure that you are kept in touch with happenings in our area.

ews.ca

son Fort nel on artisty 100-da enge chall

THURs

Only Newsp

gst.

UniTie

g COmm

UnDin

sURRO

no. 69

ARTs B7

s A3

When You t Are Ou ld, in the Fie Time . IS Money For

Call Us r ALL You ds Nee Oilﬁeld PARTS, QUALITY VICE! SER EXPERT

n sCOTT

PHOTO

BROnwY the ent on driven duty equipm had never e heavy operat his work, but unity to with opport father d for the helping her was excite job sites st. John, of time on l in Fort a lot schoo has spent secondary 30. Peever Peace y, May t at north on Monda 11 studen school site r, a grade unity comm n Peeve g it y . Morga “Ma” Murra gettin a ent before ret on, and s as Marga duty equipm building which serve heavy l. le for any of ce, the schoo

rienceay ty expe s underw avy du ion get struct s get he ool con new sch hooler week as Hightssc work this to put

not suitaba clay surfa ructing for both to const down base for the site ready good solid had to get playing field. from a nts They also lot and for senior stude to parng a parki r is one of 16 60 selected am ct a progr Peeve l Distri y Duty, nts who Schoo across in Project Heavgives stude and gas l that @ahnf the oil ticipate the whee to work 15th yearg careers in behind packers, in its rtunity try nts are l stude graders, of the considerin rs an oppo the indus s, are schoo g secto High and use rock truck ing the site unity ators, or loggin job site prepp whole real of excav this week, Murray Comm some sites my g on a on job do something and more aret “Ma” n and gettin ment. g equip of sittin Marg lly ructio future ience. Old Fort “I’ve been I can actua rwork side l for constworld exper PHOTO the pape now Schoo JeFF mAYeR life, so just the duty, real away, down dary stutasked set on than heavy a kilometre senior secon using a were ts said. heart r le more g About er group of Peeve site, studenare not suitab e, got her Peever plansd at loggin er for things,” she’s y school that anoth ates, surfac gaine their hand and a skidd Road, Ma Murra the top soils to a clay Although she gradu ience she’s US her are tryinga processor g at future at the after ing off g it down for constructing TACT help dents ing exper lookin stripp er, gettin to for CON John with teach use of the g on, and solid basethe site ready y Duty feller bunch in Fort St. nt buildin a good to make Project Heav wner site. 11 studethe for serves as also had to get field. a lando nt of the which Grade of through her goal. . they a playing on A4 d,” said developme DUTY first day called the school g lot and for achieve parkin see HeAvY “I’m excite r on the part of,  both a Peeve am she’s she said. d thing,” Morgan taske progr phone try every nts were machines -long 31 to are the Duty. week of y want stude that one Heav her fath250-785-56 “I just l site, top soils Project panied at schoo n in every At the ing off the She’d ridde , having accomtried her handgiv has the years had never with stripp Duty over fax jobs, but . Project Heavy 22 garbage er on that. them es the do just 250-785-35 believ on CN Rail operating chance to Chenier up the piling says he hasen her  any may be but email problem. an eye on property, with the comp n not their has kept @ahnfsj.ca saying spoke em. . Chenier some time, past n’t t the probl they are lookcirculation for years been for in the the abou ls say couldn’t has pile grow the pile his part  of CN officia matter, but er ing the garbage pile I know he’s done some other wheth the “That ng out online years that and r all a confirm ing into taking seven g bigge by cleari , couches, diately waynews.c ing was preprost rty. there for been gettin “People d. an immeillegal dump any’s prope matt it’s alaskahigh mattresses ca e left behin he’s kept of and ” Chenier said. ahnfsj. les the on the comp say anyon ood editor@ garbage it.”  said time, to vehic did ay g Edgew ier the ing place any railw Chen dump ger of s ressuspicious are rekeep addin to the The compsses illegal CN Pofacebook ews The manasays he shareillegal just pile, next park’s prop eye out for he believes ing. call witne wayN The t an Park an’s area d the the dump nity who property can Trailer rns abou has perAlaskaHigh s behin to be in no-m g in the for 9239. its profa conce track on ible -465ars em that propidents sses illegspons s to gettin met with he ap- lice at 1-800  erty, appe it come ing probl the park’s when raged up the He’s been who witne dump d when cts. clean attitudes Anyone is also encou ers behin twitter r nts land rities to Poach ing sisted . and bad potential suspe body All spape reside rt dump years at pleas hes t autho em. Repo tell someot do al erty for of Edgewood ) line @AHNnew call the in- proac do you say their rns abou A pair ters (RAPP “How and cann he to conce , saying probl ents agencies, conResid their they can property?” e and Pollu 7277. rous ct, last week comraised what your -952distri nume phon em of not pile, nal to 1-877 you it’s try the probl ive junk enware, cluding regioand Minis have when “By the time .” gone the mass rusted kitch tion, officials, rded tires re- said. e, they’re with , disca hazard serva onment with each plete frame it’s polic Envir a futon , poses a safety rebuffed, g residents pets. been tellin and morechildren and manages portedly for local Chenier, who watchbeen Dave says he’s the park,

studen bron

t wyn scotsj.ca

eporter peacer

DAVE LUENEBERG PHOTO

D-Crew’s Ray Supernault (69) beats the throw to McGlovins’ shortstop Gillies MacDonald during the 5th inning of the Division 1 final at the 8th Annual Arnie Isberg Memorial One-Pitch Tournament in Taylor on June 16, 2019. McGlovins, from Fort St. John, beat their counterparts from Dawson Creek 15-11. Balls Deep got by Spare Parts 1816 to win Division 2, while Velocity dropped Bubba’s Nuts 13-10 to take Division 3.

ts ner wan Park ow

If it’s local news you are looking for go to

eaned up sh pile cl to see tra

ATES EE ESTIM 86

G FR250.719.06 PAVIN VEL SALES AND DELIVERY l • Industria mercial ing lots Park tial • Com Residen • Driveways • Roads

www.alaskahighwaynews.ca

Are nding IDENTIALForGRAt St. John & Surrou AL AND RES COMMERCIson Creek, Chetwynd,

g Daw

Servin 800

R0011154

informative • innovative • indepth

B6 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Obituaries

Haydey, Lawrence June 4, 1939 − June 7, 2019 It’s with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Lawrence Haydey. Predeceased by wife, Helen; and children, Debbie and Keith. Survived by Louise Brown (Barry), Dale (Valerie), Rod (Lorraine), siblings, grandchildren, and great−grandchildren.

Obituaries

Memorial Counsellors Oliver’s Funeral Home – Grande Prairie Chapel of Memories – Peace River, Fairview, High Prairie, Valleyview, Slave Lake Beaverlodge Funeral Service – Beaverlodge Marie Froese – LaCrete Bergeron Funeral Services – Dawson Creek Reynars Funeral Home – Dawson Creek Hamre’s Funeral Chapel – Fort St. John

Born in Manning, Alberta, in 1939 Lawrence spent most of his years in the Dawson Creek, Peace Region, working in road construction. After retirement, he spent time with his children living in Prince George and Ottawa. Lawrence (Larry) leaves behind lots of extended family members and many longtime friends.

A gathering of family and friends will be announced at a later date.

Announcements

Head Office: Main Street, Rycroft, Alberta. Toll Free: 1-800-260-6765 Email: info@pcmemorials.com • Website: pcmemorials.com Announcements

DISTRICT OF TAYLOR

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at 7:00 p.m.

Loca�on:

District of Taylor Municipal Hall Council Chambers, 10007 – 100A Street, Taylor, BC V0C 2K0

540096

Tyla Pennell Corporate Oﬃcer 250-789-3392 LegaL/PubLic Notices

LegaL/PubLic Notices

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/

Announcements

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

North Peace Seniors Mouth-Eye-Foot Care Foundation a registered charitable organization 6:00 p.m. Thursday 20 JUNE 2019 #102-9816-108 Avenue Fort St. John (Drop-in) Press buzzer for entry TIME: 6:00 P.M. Renew memberships- $10 (for one year) Open to non-members Financial Report prepared by Sander Rose Bone Grindle We’ve Got Your Weekly News Email: When You Need It! npseniorsmefcarefoundation@shaw.ca SAMPLE NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENT Call: 250-787-0218 if you have questions LAND ACT Phone: 250-785-5631 LegaL/PubLic Notices

Copies of the Annual Report are also available at the District of Taylor website (www.districto�aylor.com) and Municipal Hall during regular oﬃce hours (Monday to Friday, excluding statutory holidays, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

LegaL/PubLic Notices

GET RESULTS! Post a classified in 96 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.bccommu nitynews.com/advertise or 1-866-669-9222.

52908

No�ce is hereby given for the District of Taylor’s Annual General Mee�ng. A comprehensive Annual Report will be presented outlining ﬁnancial and opera�onal results for 2018 and an opportunity will be provided for ques�ons from the public. Date:

Coming EvEnts

NOTICE OF

On his 80th birthday, Lawrence took a serious fall and succumbed to his injuries on June 7th surrounded by his family. Special thanks to Norm and Shelley for their hospitality to Dad and their quick action after his accident. Thank you also to the caring nurses and doctors at PGRH.

Announcements

LegaL/PubLic Notices

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

Take notice that British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority from Vancouver, BC, has applied to the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development (MFLNRORD), Northeast Region, for a Licence of Occupation situated on Provincial Crown land located in the vicinity of Halfway River/Hwy 29. The Lands File for this application is 8016074. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to Jason Pederson, Authorization Officer, Northeast Region, MFLNRORD, at 100, 10003-110 Avenue, Fort St. John, BC, V1J 6M7, (250) 261-2063. Comments will be received by MFLNRORD up to July 26, 2019. MFLNRORD may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information and a map of the application area.

www.fortstjohn.ca

LegaL/PubLic Notices

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, June 21 Ham & Beef Supper Pouce Coupe Seniors Hall- $15/plate. Doors open: 4:30 pm, Supper: 5:30pm Everyone Welcome Mile “O” Quilter’s Guild meets every Tuesday & Thursday in Dawson Creek at KPAC in Studio #10 at 7pm

Funeral ServiceS

PUBLIC NOTICE

Inquiries regarding this disposition of land may be directed to Moira Green, General Manager of Community Services at (250) 787-5787.

Save the Dates July 12, 13, 14, 2019 for the Mile Zero Cruisers Silver Anniversary Summer Cruise weekend Bring down your pride and joy and register for the Car Show weekend. For online Registration and more information:

Announcements

Tenders

In general, du�es will include:

• • • • •

Daily cleaning of the school and gymnasium, ﬁve days per week (Monday - Friday); Steam cleaning carpeted areas at least three �mes annually, and as required; Removal of snow from outside entrances and ﬁre exits; Cleaning exterior windows at least twice annually; Keeping the immediate area around the school clean from debris and garbage; Changing light tubes and bulbs, as required.

NOTE: Tenders for Wonowon Elementary School are not to include cleaning of the kitchen area or other cleaning required as a result of Wonowon Horse Club ac�vi�es. Contractors will be responsible for supplying cleaning supplies and equipment. If there is a need for equipment rental from the District, that need must be stated within tender proposal. Contractors must be able to communicate and work in co-opera�on with the staﬀ in the school. Contractors must have their own WorkSafe BC coverage and supply the clearance le�er to the district with the tender submission. Separate tenders, s�pulated in dollar amounts per month, must be submi�ed for the loca�on. The lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted.

Wri�en tenders reﬂec�ng experience and at least three references will be received by the Secretary-Treasurer un�l 12:00 noon, June 27, 2019. Envelope must be clearly marked “Custodial Tender – (Wonowon)” and delivered to: Secretary-Treasurer School District #60 10112 – 105 Avenue Fort St. John, BC V1J 4S4

SUNDAYS: FAMILY TREE HELP - Peace Country Roots Group Meeting - Fourth Sunday of each Month at the CALVIN KRUK CENTRE in Dawson Creek 1:30pm TOPS 3907: Take Off Pounds Sensibly Meet Thursday mornings 9:30 am New Beginnings Baptist Church 10221-18th St. Phone Marge 780-8645205 for more info.

Fort St. John Native Housing Society

Annual General Meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 25, 2019 5:00 pm at the Fort St. John Native Housing Office 10233-100 Ave

250-785-4900 Supper will be provided!

Please Come and Celebrate

Vance and Josephine Dancy’s

60 th Wedding An nive rs ar y

Saturday June 29, 2019 1 - 4 PM Charlie Lake Hall. Refreshments to be served.

NO GIFTS PLEASE! 52946

Coming EvEnts

Custodial services will commence September 1, 2019 and continue up to and including July 15, 2021, with the option of extending to a third year.

•

MileZeroCruisers.com

Coming EvEnts

General employment

Further detail concerning this tender may be obtained by contac�ng Radu Grigoras, Maintenance Supervisor - Facili�es, at 250-262-4007.

www.fortstjohn.ca

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

TOPS Evening Sessions Meet Thursday at 6:00 pm New Beginnings Baptist Church in DC, 10221-18th St Phone: Judy 250-782-9540 or Gail 250-782-7208 for more info.

Wonowon – approximately 88 kms from Fort St. John

In accordance with Section 26 of the Community Charter, notice is hereby given that the City of Fort St. John intends to sell the land legally described as Lot 2, Block 8, Plan 3012 with the civic address of 9407 – 100 Avenue (Old Fire Hall) to 1117731 BC Ltd. for $625,000 conditional upon rezoning.

Coming EvEnts

Funeral ServiceS

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 60 (PEACE RIVER NORTH) TENDER – CUSTODIAL SERVICES School District No. 60 (Peace River North) is accepting tenders to provide custodial services at the following school:

LegaL/PubLic Notices

RE: DISPOSAL OF LAND

Coming EvEnts

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.

Tenders

Coming EvEnts

50132

Obituaries

250-785-5631 classifieds@ahnfsj.ca

50126

Classifieds

Book Your Ad Now!

PC Roots Group Meeting: 4th Sunday/month - from Sept-June 1:30pm in the Roots Building at NAR Park. 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 South Peace Historical Society Meetings Third Wednesday of the month. In Dawson Creek at the Calvin Kruk Centre Archives Room at 2 pm.

Business OppOrtunities

Carpenters & Labourers needed for Commercial Renovations in Fort St John, BC. Azonic Constructors Inc. Requirements: Own transportation, valid drivers license, able to stand and walk for long periods of time, push/pull, bend and crouch frequently. Professional attitude, demonstrated ability to work in team environment. Experience promoting a strong safety culture and following HSE policies and procedures. 780-235-6010 jobs@fcmi.net SANDMANN INNS RURAL BC recruiting management couples, both full-time and part-time roles available. Ask us about our great employee perks and accommodation. Apply: sbraid@sandman.ca

Business OppOrtunities

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019 B7

Classifieds FURNISHED BASEMENT SUITE. Internet Included. Available Immediately. NO PETS. Pouce Coupe. Call 250-7865157. Steel BuildingS / granarieS STEEL BUILDING SALE...”MEGA MADNESS SALE - BIG CRAZY DEALS ON ALL BUILDINGS!” 20X21 $5,868. 25X27 $6,629. 30X31 $8,886. 32X35 $9,286. 35X35 $12,576. One End Wall Included. Pioneer Steel 1-855-2127036. www.pioneersteel.ca

ProPerty For Sale TEXAS USA BEST BUY We have prime 20 acre Ranchettes located in scenic Texas and just south of Marfa. Now only $299 per acre/$99 per month financing available. Call 800-875-6568

Basement suites

Education

Furnished Room for Rent in Dawson Creek. Includes utilities/wifi/TV/laundry/privateentrance/parking. No Pets/Drugs. 250-7820001. Accept Short or Long Term.

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 June 30, 2019. Send applications to fbula@langara.ca. Details at https://langara.ca/programs-and-courses/programs/journalism/scholarships.html

CommerCial SHOP FOR RENT. 1600 sq. ft., Well Insulated & Lit. 500 114 Ave. DC. 250-843-7345

GaraGe SaleS

Home Care Wanted

Multi Family Garage Sale!! (June 21) 4-8pm, (June 22) 8am-4pm, (June 23) 9-3pm 13546 Bluejay St. Turn left @ Mile 54, Turn Right @ 281 Rd *Follow Signs*

In-Home Caregiver for Hire: To look after my (2) children; 7year old girl & 6 year old boy. Permanent, Full-time at a rate of $14/hour for 40 hours/week. Completion of Secondary School/Some College/CEPEG/Vocational. 1 to 2 years of experience supervision or care for children. Accommodation available on a live-in basis at no cost but is not a condition of employment. Main duties include: supervise and care, assist/guide children on personal hygiene; meal preparation; organize and participate in children’s activities and may perform light housekeeping. Applicants may apply via email: joan24garcia@yahoo.com

Business services Arctic Duct Cleaning, Furnace & duct cleaning, Chimney sweep. 250-787-7217 (FSJ) Kan Do.. Lawn Mowing and trimming. 250-262-9562

Business For sale BREW ON PREMISE (Ubrew). Located in the only desert in Canada Osoyoos, BC. Established 24 yrs. Large clientele. Excellent Returns. Ample Parking.gwynne@shaw.ca 250-863-1108

Notice is hereby given that Beverley Ann Hayashi of Fort St. John, B.C. made an assignment in Bankruptcy on June 12, 2019 The first meeting of creditors will be held on June 24, 2019 9:30 AM at MNP - Fort St. John #2 - 10611 - 102 Street Fort St. John BC V1J 5L3 Trustee MNP Ltd. Suite 100 – 1628 Dickson Avenue Kelowna, B.C. V1Y 9X1 Telephone: 250-979-2580 Fax: 250-979-2581

LegaL/PubLic Notices

IN THE MATTER OF THE BANKRUPTCY OF Gregory Earl Hornshaw NOTICE OF FIRST MEETING OF CREDITORS

2008 Honda VFR800 $6000 obo. 16,800 km. Sport Touring Bike. Excellent Condition. 250−264−8300

(Section 102(4))

Announcements

Notice is hereby given that Gregory Earl Hornshaw of Fort St. John, B.C. made an assignment in Bankruptcy on June 11, 2019 The first meeting of creditors will be held on June 24, 2019 8:30 AM at MNP - Fort St. John #2 - 10611 - 102 Street Fort St. John BC V1J 5L3

SAY NO to FAKE NEWS! 63% of Canadians can’t tell the difference between real and fake news. Support reliable LOCAL journalism. Join the list www.newspapersmatter.ca.

Trustee MNP Ltd. Suite 100 – 1628 Dickson Avenue Kelowna, B.C. V1Y 9X1 Telephone: 250-979-2580 Fax: 250-979-2581

ApArtments/ Condos for

LegaL/PubLic Notices

Drop off or mail your FREE birth announcement 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

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

LegaL/PubLic Notices

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 Li-Car Management Group

PLACE YOUR AD IN THE

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

Listed on the TSX, West Fraser is a leading diversified North American forest products company. Rated as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers for six years, we are a growing company looking for talented people to be part of our team. Our Chetwynd Forest Industries Division has opportunities for the position of: GENERAL LABOURER • MiLLwRiGht • ELEctRiciANs cLAss 4 POwER ENGiNEER

Phone: 250-785-2662

ApArtments/ Condos for

LegaL/PubLic Notices

R0011448135

LegaL/PubLic Notices

Our ideal candidates will possess: • A grade 12 diploma • Strong interpersonal and communication skills • Strong commitment to safety • Our West Fraser values (including integrity, humility, teamwork, frugality, innovation, competitiveness, and respect) • The desire to learn, grow and succeed • Industrial experience and post-secondary education would be considered an asset

631 5 5 -78 522 0 5 2 Ph: 0-785-3 5 Fx: 2

ApArtments/ Condos for

RENTFSJ.CA Home away from home

A proud member of the community

Announcements

OY! IT’S A B Bergen llen Garrett A ents: Par r & Trevo Rebecca gen Ber t: eigh Baby’s W ozs 7 lbs 7 ches in Length: 21 2, 2019 Date: June48 pm Time: 9: hn, BC Jo Fort St.

This is a wonderful way for family and friends to acknowledge these special miracles

778-834-RENT(7368) We have a variety of furnished units ready to move in! Options of 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms units, with all furnishings Alaska Highway News

Announcements

IRL! IT’S A G na-Lee n Auriah A tty Bea Parents: eatty Tanya B Craig & 20.5 cms Length: Weight: Baby’s 8 lbs 11 oz, 2019 10 Date: June :40 am Time: 12 e, BC North Pin

LegaL ServiceS 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

Announcements

IT’S A GIR Emery Grace L! Frost Parents: Peter & Amie Fr Baby’s Weight ost : 7 lbs 11 ozs Length: 20 in Date: May 16 ches , 2019 Time: 8:39 Fort St. Johnpm , BC

ApArtments/ Condos for

RENTFSJ.CA

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

Announcements

(Section 102(4))

LegaL/PubLic Notices

ApArtments/ Condos for

LegaL/PubLic Notices

Announcements

IN THE MATTER OF THE BANKRUPTCY OF Beverley Ann Hayashi NOTICE OF FIRST MEETING OF CREDITORS

Motorcycles

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

LegaL/PubLic Notices

Special Delivery

SAY NO to FAKE NEWS! 63% of Canadians can’t tell the difference between real and fake news. Support reliable LOCAL journalism. Join the list www.newspapersmatter.ca.

LegaL/PubLic Notices

540104

SuiteS For rent

540103

Construction Site Admin needed for Commercial Renovations in Fort St John, BC. Azonic Constructors Inc Requirements: Previous construction experience is an asset. Confined space, and OFA Level 2 first aid safety certificates, willing to train. Prepare reports and safety documentation, to ensure worksite is compliant with HSE regulations. 780-235-6010 jobs@fcmi.net

Notices / NomiNatioNs

R0011352381

General employment

250-785-5631 classifieds@ahnfsj.ca

Book Your Ad Now!

AND MAYBE SOMEONE WILL

Chetwynd is a growing, family-friendly community located on the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains and offers excellent year-round recreational activities. Our mill and forest operations form an integral part of the community, providing economic stability to employees and families that live in the Chetwynd area. To learn more visit: http://www.gochetwynd.com

CIRCLE YOUR AD! LegaL/PubLic Notices

If this position sounds like the career for you, submit your application at www.westfraser.com/jobs click “apply now” in green at the top of the page. For more information on West Fraser and our current opportunities, visit our website at: www.westfraser.com/jobs We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an R0011712333 interview will be contacted.

AT THE ALASKA HIGHWAY NEWS WE ARE

THINKING GREEN!

PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT

Notice of Public Hearing ZONING AMENDMENT BYLAW NO. 2369, 2019

When:

Tuesday, June 25, 2019 7:00pm

Where:

Prespatou Elementary Secondary School

Prespatou District Lot 2518 Peace River except parcels 18700, 22630, 31494, PGP41938 PGP44763, BCP44091, EPP50130 and EPP74631

Alaska Highway NEWS 785-5631

CommerCial

Do your part for our community and our world

Our newspaper is printed on partially recycled paper.

RECYCLE!

CommerCial

For Sale or leaSe

The Peace River Regional District is hosting a meeting to discuss the proposed zoning amendment. Proposal: To rezone a 111.01 ha. (274.31 ac.) portion of the subject property from A-2 (Large Agricultural Holdings Zone) to R-2 (Residential 2 Zone). The applicants intend to develop the property in phases, for an eventual total of twelve ±4 ha. (±10 ac.) lots and one ±12 ha. (±30 ac.) residential lot.

22113 Triad Road Prespatou, BC

For More Information: Contact: Development Services

InduStrIal WarehouSe & neWer oFFIce

Tel: 250-784-3200 Toll Free: 1-800-670-7773 Email: prrd.dc@prrd.bc.ca

prrd.bc.ca

This notice is in general form only. Relevant background documents may be inspected from Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, between the hours of 8:30am – 4:30pm at the PRRD Dawson Creek office (1981 Alaska Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC) or 8:30am – Noon and 1:00pm – 4:30pm at the PRRD Fort St. John office (9505-100th Street, Fort St. John, BC). Written comments or concerns accepted. The holding of this public hearing has been delegated to the Director of Electoral Area B. Shawn Dahlen, Chief Administrative Officer

diverse. vast. abundant.

Property 905 100 Ave | Dawson Creek, BC Building 8,396 sq. ft. lot Size 0.41 Acres Zoning M2 - Light Industrial More Info: www.century21.ca/101270699 Great oPPortunItY & locatIon Both building price and lease are extremely $ low rates making this a great investment MLS® Number: 170279 property. 13.5% cap rate at list price

499,000

B8 THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Local news

Northern Lights Raceway results

dave lueneberg photo

Dwayne Dunning of Fort St. John lifts his 1973 Chevy Nova off the ground at the start of his race at Northern Lights Raceway on June 15, 2019 during the Hotte Memorial and Pro Mod Shootout.

The Northern Lights Raceway held the Hotte Family Memorial, along with the Dakow Ventures Pro Mod Shootout last weekend, June 15 and 16. Here are the results from both events.

Junior Dragster Class 1. Isabella Sasyn 2. Jaden Sasyn 3. Mathieu Heinrichs 4. Grant Gessner

Pro Mod Shootout ! . Dale Pederson 2. Wade Sjostrom 3. Dave Kowalski

June 16 Box Class 1. John Tiegan 2. Mikayla Fedderly

June 15 Box Class 1. Marlin Chase 2. James Easton

No Box Class 1. Steve Breitkreuz 2. Mike Dixon

No Box Class 1. Ray Piper 2. Dwayne Dunning Pure Street Class 1. Shawn Hagen 2. Dan Coates Bike/Sled Class 1. William Svisdahl 2. Bruce Romak

matt preprost photo

Grade 5 Robert Ogilvie student Nick Mearow experiences confined space training at the Fort St. John Fire Department’s station at Xplorefest, June 14, 2019.

Pure Street Class 1. Shawn Hagen 2. Aaron McEwan Bike/Sled Class 1. William Svisdahl 2. Bruce Romak Junior Dragster Class 1. Tyler Musgrove 2. Dekker Jones 3. Walker Babuick

matt preprost photo

Grade 6 Duncan Cran student Ava Sheikh practices her art skills with a 3-D pen at Xplorefest, June 14, 2019.

dillon giancola photo

The trucks take the green flag to begin the second heat of race action during the 2019 Hit to Pass at Taylor Speedway on June 16, 2019. Most of the trucks were in a lot worse shape by the end.

matt preprost photo

Mayor Lori Ackerman presents Northern Lights College board chair Tyler Holte with a sign commemorating the name change of the East Bypass Road to Northern Lights Drive, June 14, 2019.

dave lueneberg photo

Tyrel Connelly leads his MX3 Junior race during the Peace Motocross Association’s Dawson Creek leg on June 16, 2019.

matt preprost photo

Sabrina Benmars received the Governor General’s Academic Medal for a grade point average of 4.22, June 14, 2019.14, 2019.