AHN OCT 3 2019 by Alaska Highway News

alaska highway news THURSDAY, oct. 3, 2019 | VOL. A-75 NO. 40

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RCMP SPECIAL REPORT On Monday, July 15, 2019, at approximately 7:19 a.m., the Fort Nelson RCMP responded to a report of two deceased persons near Highway 97, south of the Liard River Hot Springs in British Columbia.

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Lucas Fowler and Chynna Deese were found shot to death near their van on the side of the Alaska Highway just south of Liard Hot Springs.

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Fort Nelson and Dease Lake homicide investigation This overview is a summary of the totality of the investigative findings. The information is based on a review of digital and physical evidence to date, including statements, tips and forensic examination reports. All times referenced are Pacific Standard Time unless indicated. Fort Nelson Double Homicide On Monday, July 15, 2019, at approximately 7:19 a.m., the Fort Nelson RCMP responded to a report of two deceased persons near Highway 97, south of the Liard River Hot Springs in British Columbia. The two bodies were located near a blue van with Alberta plates, which was registered to Lucas Fowler from Beaverlodge, Alberta. The crime scene was located 3.5 hours north of Fort Nelson, near the 740 kilometer marker in a remote area. At approximately 10:22 a.m., police arrived at scene and confirmed the license plate and determined the back window of the van was shot out. Preliminary observations revealed both deaths appeared to be a result of gunshot wounds. The North District Major Crime

Lucas Fowler

Chynna Deese

Leonard Dyck

Unit was deployed to investigate the suspicious deaths. The victims did not have any identification and police were unable to determine if the male was the registered owner of the van. On July 15, 2019, a search warrant was sworn to search the van for evidence and the warrant was executed on July 16, 2019. The search continued through July 17, 2019. From the search, police located identification belonging to two individuals: Lucas Robertson Fowler, a 23-year-old Australian citizen and Chynna Noel Deese, a 24-year-old American citizen. Fowler was in Canada on a work visa and Deese was visiting Fowler

from the United States. They were on a vacation together traveling to the Yukon in Fowler’s van. On July 17, 2019, the Next of Kin notifications were done with the Fowler and Deese families after a careful verification of the victim identities and correspondence with the US Consulate Office, Australian Consulate Office and New West South Wales Police. The identities of the deceased were disclosed publicly on July 18, 2019 in order to support the on-going investigation which had not established a possible motive or suspect(s). Police conducted an extensive search of the crime

scene and surrounding areas. Various items were seized, including unspent and spent casings with head stamp 101 and 75. The crime scene exhibits were sent to firearms lab for examination. [The number 75 is a date stamp that indicates the ammunition was manufactured in 1975 and the number 101 refers to the factory where the ammunition was produced. The seized ammunition was deemed to be 7.62 x 39mm calibre. Firearms known to fire this calibre include a firearm commonly referred to as a SKS, which is a nonrestricted, semi-automatic rifle.] Continued on A4

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ryer Schmegelsky and Kam McLeod had made it to Whitehorse by the time RCMP arrived on scene to investigate the roadside shootings of two international tourists, Lucas Fowler and Chynna Deese, on the Alaska Highway just south of Liard Hot Springs on July 15. They had made it to Kitwanga and were on their way to Vanderhoof by the time police arrived on scene to investigate the killing of University of British Columbia botany professor Leonard Dyck on Highway 37 near Dease Lake on July 19. The timeline of the three killings that rocked northern B.C., Canada, and indeed the world this summer was laid out by BC RCMP last week as investigators concluded their work and released their findings to the public. It’s a gripping and chilling account of how three innocents crossed paths with two young men whose madness and motives carry on unexplained to this day. Despite the evidence collected from across the country, despite the videotaped admissions, despite all the interviews with witnesses and family, RCMP say they still have no information that suggests a motive behind Schmegelsky and McLeod’s cowardly and gutless actions. They carried those answers to their graves after killing themselves in a suicide pact deep in the boreal bush of northern Manitoba near the Nelson River. While the families of the victims have some answers to the senselessness of this all, they’ll never truly have closure, and neither will the public. Indeed, for many, it will be a painful march forward and move beyond all this tragedy. A sad chapter in Canadian history has come to a close, and RCMP should be applauded for the report they have released to the public about their investigation. It’s a rare release, and we publish it here in its entirety for the public record. A 400-word news report just isn’t enough to get the true sense of this tragedy. The RCMP report is an unparalleld look into police investigations into such heinous crimes, and of the complexities of policing in northern B.C. It’s a must read for all of us who call the great Northeast home.    Also chilling this week were the details laid out in court regarding the killing of Pamela Napoleon near Blueberry River in 2014. Leon Wokeley has pleaded to seconddegree murder in her killing, and his sentencing hearing continues this week. Second degree murder carries a mandatory minimum of life in prison. It’s a crime that has shaken Blueberry River to its core, caused needless fear, and has torn families apart. For more on that trial, visit Alaska Highway News online for our report later this week, or in next week’s print.    Readers looking forward to the return of former mayor Steve Thorlakson can turn to B11 for his thoughts on city and federal matters taking shape since his summer break. Email Managing Editor Matt Preprost at editor@ahnfsj.ca.

THIS DAY IN HISTORY

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1849: Edgar Allan Poe is found delirious in a gutter in Baltimore, Maryland, under mysterious circumstances; it is the last time he is seen in public before his death.

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Golfers took in some of the last good weather of the season at the X-Country Tournament at Lone Wolf on Sept. 28, 2019.

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Every generation has its apocalypse

un violence: When my grandson enters Kindergarten next year, will his orientation include participating in an active shooter drill? Will he be told to duck and cover? Will he learn how to not only write his name with one of those fat red pencils but also the most expeditious way to get to the classroom closet and lock the door? Climate change: Will Dylan and his classmates line up so that their teacher can ensure they all have mandatory sun protection and hats before heading outside for the 15 minutes of playtime at recess? Will they look at pictures of elephants or tigers and be told, “we don’t have them anymore”? Global conflict: Will he be more concerned that an overly red sunset might mean something catastrophic has occurred somewhere in the world, than merely being in awe of the radiant colours? Is this the world that our children and grandchildren will live in? Is this their new reality? Flashback 70 years: My mom tells me about growing up during the era of the Cold War, where many did worry about every unusually red sunset. They had safety drills in school, actually called ‘uck and Cover. The anxiety that someone was going to

JUDY KUCHARUK start World War III was omnipresent and drove some of her classmates to suicide. The night that she heard that John Kennedy was assassinated, she was fearful that global conflict would follow. In the 1990s, we had the Gulf War – I remember listening to the radio when the first Iraq Scud Missile landed in Israel and thought, “here we go.” We watched that war and the subsequent war in real-time on the nightly news. You ate dinner, and then sat back and watched the battle on CNN. Do you remember Y2K? How millions of people worried that something cataclysmic would occur at the stroke of midnight when the Millennium Bug infected every computer. The anxiety that the apocalypse was going to be set in motion because

of a computer was exacerbated by Doomsdayer’s taking advantage of those with fragile mental health. There is an apocalyptic scenario for every generation. The difference between then and now is that our children have a smorgasbord of scenarios to choose from. I heard it once said that “profound depression is not hopelessness, it is the absence of hope.” That played over in my head as I watched and heard the young Swede Greta Thunberg give an impassioned speech about climate change and the world in which she believes she will live her adult life. Listening to her speak, I saw a terrified child who, despite her sharp words, was living without hope. We, the adults, the grownups who should know better, have done this to Greta, a little girl with braids who symbolizes many children throughout the world. In our ignorance, apathy, politico spin, and partisan rhetoric, we have created Greta, and now Greta will become the voice of her generation: A voice of desperation, a voice without hope? We need to protect our children. Judy Kucharuk is a lover of sarcasm, witty people and footnotes, and lives in Dawson Creek.

LETTERS

Published every Thursday at 9916 - 98th Street Fort St. John, B.C. V1J 3T8 250-785-5631 250-785-3522 alaskahighwaynews.ca

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William Julian Regional Manager wj@ahnfsj.ca

Ryan Wallace Sales Manager rwallace@ahnfsj.ca

Brenda Piper Sales Associate bpiper@ahnfsj.ca

Tim Cramer Graphic Artist compose@ahnfsj.ca CONTRIBUTORS Dave Lueneberg, Judy Kucharuk, Larry Evans, Sam Stackhouse, Steve Thorlakson, Norma Rrae

Matt Preprost Managing Editor editor@ahnfsj.ca

Dillon Giancola Sports Reporter sports@ahnfsj.ca

Lynn Novack Circulation Manager circulation@ahnfsj.ca

Write to us by snail mail, or email your letters to editor@ahnfsj.ca. Letters must be accompanied by your full name and a phone number, for verification. Please limit your letters to 300 words. We reserve the right to edit letters for length, taste, accuracy, and libel. Protest the policy, not the person. Opinions expressed in letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect those of Alaska Highway News.

COPYRIGHT & LEGAL NOTICE 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. Alaska Highway News is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about our content, please let us know first. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit mediacouncil.ca or call 1-844-877-1163 for more information. Second class mail registration No. 0167

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2019 | NEWS | A3

All candidates forum set for October 10 Matt Preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca Federal election candidates in Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies will tackle the issues facing Canada at an all candidates forum in Fort St. John on Thursday, October 10. The forum will be held at the Lido Theatre. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for a meet and greet, with the forum to begin at 7:30 p.m. and will run approximately 90 minutes. Candidates running are Bob Zimmer (Conservatives), Mavis Erickson (Liberals), Catherine Kendall (Greens), Marcia Luccock (NDP), and Ron Vaillant (People’s Party). Candidates will be asked to answer questions from Fort St. John and North Peace

residents. Questions can be submitted to editor@ahnfsj.ca or info@fjschamber.com through Oct. 10. Please include your full name, location, and who you wish to address your question to. A selection of questions will be put to the candidates at the forum. The forum will be broadcast live on Facebook through Alaska Highway News, EnergeticCity.ca, and CJDC-TV. It will also be broadcast live on the radio through 100.1 Moose FM and 98.5 Sun FM. The forum is being sponsored by the BC Northern Real Estate Board and Lido Theatre, with support from the Fort St. John & District Chamber of Commerce. Election day is Monday Oct. 21.

New school build readied for winter Matt Preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca Wet weather continues to pose challenges for builders of the new Anne Roberts Young Elementary School, but crews are hard at work to get the building closed in for winter. The city saw 224 millimetres of rain over the summer, up from a three-month average of 192 mm. It’s also facing a chance of snow and rain this week. “The upcoming snow on Friday and the colder weather is going to cause some issues and potential delays with pouring of the con-

crete,” Doug Boyd, assistant superintendent in charge of the build, told trustees Monday night. The rest of construction is going well otherwise, Boyd said. “All trades are on board and working feverishly to get it closed in for the winter months,” he said. The new school will have seats for 505 students, and include a neighbourhood learning centre, a daycare, and multi-purpose spaces for community use. Construction began in 2018, and is planned to be complete and ready for students in fall 2020.

Books for Bert Ambrose Matt Preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca Bert Ambrose Elementary has been selected as a recipient of Indigo’s Adopt a School book program this year. Until Oct. 6, the Coles bookstore is fundraising on the school’s behalf to help revitalize its library and help its students. “With an inadequate library budget of less than $30 per student for the entire year, this local school will now have an opportunity to

upgrade its library collection and enrich the lives and education of its students,” Indigo says. Bert Ambrose is looking to expand its collection to meet the needs of its growing ethnic student population. And it’s non-fiction collection needs more selection, while it’s indigenous collection needs to be updated and reflect the current school curriculum. Visit Coles in Totem Mall to donate in person, or visit loveofreading.org/ school/1550.

Volunteer for a great cause Join the Fort St. John ESS Team The Fort St. John Emergency Support Services (ESS) team meets at the Pomeroy Sport Centre from 6-7:30pm the following dates:

October 3, 2019 January 9, 2020

Training is provided for volunteers throughout the year through in-house facilitation and Emergency Management BC sponsored courses and upcoming training including: Feb 6, 2020 ESS 101 Location: Pomeroy Sport Centre Time: 5:30pm-8:30pm

March 5, 2020 June 4, 2020

To register or for more information contact Kylah Bryde at kbryde@fortstjohn.ca

Try a 55+ BC Games sport for FREE For ages 55+ • No registration required! Snacks and beverages provided

GIVE IT A TRY

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Contact the Pomeroy Sport Centre at 250-785-4592 or recreation@fortstjohn.ca for details

PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT

Notice of Intent to Consider ZONING AMENDMENT BYLAW NO. 2379, 2019

When: Thursday, October 10, 2019 | 10:00am

Where:

Peace River Regional District Head Office Boardroom 1981 Alaska Ave, Dawson Creek, BC

Charlie Lake Area

Subject property: Lot 4 Section 9 Township 85 Range 20 W6M Peace River PL 25380 The Peace River Regional District Board intends to consider the proposed bylaw. Proposal: To rezone the subject property from R-5 (Residential 5 Zone) to R-4 (Residential 4 Zone) to facilitate the subdivision of the property into two 1.83 ha (4.5 ac) parcels.

For More Information: Contact: Development Services Tel: 250-784-3200 Toll Free: 1-800-670-7773 Email: prrd.dc@prrd.bc.ca

This no�ce 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). Wri�en comments or concerns accepted. Shawn Dahlen, Chief Administra�ve Officer

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A4 | news | thursday, october 3, 2019

Fort Nelson and Dease Lake homicide investigation Continued from A1 Subsequent to a media release requesting public assistance for information, police received several tips, obtained surveillance video and witness statements. Investigators seized a surveillance video which placed Fowler and Deese at a Fort Nelson gas station on July 13, 2019. On July 21, 2019, police took a statement from a witness who saw the blue van broken down, parked off the side of the Highway. On July 14, 2019, at approximately 6:30 p.m., the witness stopped to render assistance and spoke with Fowler and Deese who stated they planned to call a tow truck eventually. On July 16, 2019, police interviewed another witness who observed a male speaking to Fowler and Deese on July 14, 2019 at approximately 10:40 p.m. The witness described that the van’s back window was intact and not damaged. This was the last known time that Fowler and Deese were seen alive. Based on the witness information, a composite sketch was created and released publicly on July 22nd in order to determine the identity of the individual, along with his vehicle, an older model Jeep Cherokee with a black stripe on the hood and a black light/ bull bar with small, covered lights. This unknown male was considered a person of interest initially, however he was changed to a witness after McLeod and Schmegelsky’s involvement came to light. This witness remains unidentified to date. On July 19, 2019, an autopsy was performed on Fowler and Deese. The pathologist concluded that Fowler and Deese both died of multiple gunshot wounds. It appears that the shooter(s) stood behind the victims for at least some of the shots.

bc rcmp photo

Bryer Schmegelsky and Kam McLeod burned their truck 2 kilometres south of where they killed Leonard Dyck on Highway 37 near Dease Lake.

bc rcmp photo

RCMP investigative map of the Dease Lake homicide.

Dease Lake Homicide On July 19, 2019 at approximately 7:19 a.m., the Dease Lake RCMP responded to a vehicle fire on Highway 37, approximately 60 kilometers south of Dease Lake, British Columbia. At approximately 7:54 a.m., police arrived at scene and observed the truck was completely burned. Police located a burnt license plate which was determined to be from a Dodge pick-up truck registered to Kam Mc-

bc rcmp photo

Surveillance footage of Kam McLeod purchasing gas and filling the tank of Leonard Dyck’s stolen vehicle.

Leod from Port Alberni, British Columbia. On July 19, 2019, at approximately 8:29 a.m., a highway worker stopped and advised the Dease Lake RCMP officer at the burnt truck scene about a deceased

male he had just located approximately 2 kilometers south. The deceased was an older male and he did not match the physical descriptors of McLeod. The deceased suffered injuries to his head and body, including bruises

and burn marks. Initially, the cause of death was unknown. [The police are not releasing further details of the injuries out of respect for the deceased’s family and not to further victimize them.] On July 19, 2019, the E

Division Major Crime Unit was deployed to support the Dease Lake RCMP and the North District Major Crime with the investigation. Police did not know how the deceased male was connected to the vehicle fire or the missing registered owner. As a result, a search warrant was drafted to search the burnt truck. The Dease Lake homicide was approximately 546 kilometers (approximately 7.5 hour drive) away from the Fort Nelson murders. Both murders happened within four days of each other in the northern BC area. As a result, investigators from both Fort Nelson and Dease Lake homicides shared information to ensure awareness around both investigations. During the late hours of July 19, 2019, police spoke with a family member of McLeod and determined he left Port Alberni with his friend, Bryer Schmegelsky on July 12, 2019. On July 20, 2019, the Port Alberni RCMP conducted interviews with the McLeod and Schmegelsky families, who described them as good kids who were on a trip to northern British Columbia and Yukon to look for work. Furthermore, the family stated they sent photos of their trip via texts and shared that they had vehicle troubles. Their last contact with family was on July 17, 2019. Police checks revealed McLeod and Schmegelsky had limited police interactions [nothing of note] and no criminal records. Based on the known facts at the time, both males were considered missing and possibly further victims. Police Dog Services, Search and Rescue, Tactical Troop and Air Services were utilized in efforts to locate the missing men in the Dease Lake area and further evidence. On July 20, 2019, police started processing the Dease Lake crime scene. Initially there was no obvious cause of death but upon the arrival of the coroner later that day the body was moved and a believed to be single entry/exit wound for a bullet was located. A spent casing was located pressed into the ground a distance from the unidentified deceased male. A later analysis of the spent casing showed it had a head stamp 101 and 75 and it was sent to the firearms lab for examination. Continued on A7

alaska highway news

thursday, october 3, 2019 | NEWS | A5

Taylor Elementary gets bright, new facelift Matt Preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca As Taylor elementary students went back to school with fresh new supplies and clothes, the school welcomed them with a fresh new look of its own. The school has been given a bright and much-needed facelift complete with new exterior cladding, new washrooms, new windows, and a paved parking lot. “To go from what it was to what it is was really good value for the money,” said Brenda Hooker, secretarytreasurer for School District 60, last week. In all, some 56 tons of stucco and mesh waste were ripped from the exterior walls and replaced with metal cladding, the orange, white, and black colours chosen in conjunction with the school community. Two inches of new insulation was also added to the exterior walls, every window was replaced with triplepane glass, universal washrooms were built, and LED lighting and a bottle fill station were installed. The gym also got a fresh coat of paint.

school district 60 photo

Taylor Elementary School after receiving exterior upgrades, September 2019.

Renovations are 95% complete, said Chad Cushway, plant superintendent in charge of school maintenance. Brand new blinds are on order, concrete will be poured for new outdoor stairs, and exterior doors will be replaced. That will all be done before winter.

All told, the work doubles the insulation value of the school to help cut the utility bills, Hooker said. The improvements cost just under $500,000, and were funded by a ministry of education facility grant. The school district gets $1.4 million in facility grants each year, and the district

worked with contractors to maximize the dollars spent on the Taylor project, Hooker said. The district plans to upgrade one school a year and is building that into its fiveyear capital plan, Hooker said, adding the Taylor project will be highlighted to the ministry.

The next school slated for an upgrade has yet to be determined, though the district will be looking at those with the highest needs. “A lot of the schools are older and it’s going to be a while before we see replacement schools,” Hooker said. “We have a plan and we’re working on it.”

Peace Villa admissions suspended Matt Preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca Northern Health says it is temporarily suspending new admissions at Peace Villa due to staffing challenges. The health authority announced the news Thursday morning, saying the move is necessary to “ensure continued safe, quality care” for current residents. “In spite of aggressive and continuing recruitment efforts and available incentives, a number of positions remain vacant at Peace Villa. Demand for health care aides, Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses is high throughout the Northeast,” Northern Health said. Northern Health says it’s working on a plan to deal with the staff shortage in consultation with the ministry of health, and is reviewing inter-provincial mobility and training incentives. “The team will also work with local management to address any immediate care concerns related to staffing, and will work closely with residents and their family members to address any issues or concerns,” Northern Health said.

: For all the news we couldn’t fit into print: alaskahighwaynews.ca

alien fruit Eva Thiessen dropped by the Alaska Highway News office last week to show us some of the strange, alien looking tomatoes that grew in her sister’s greenhouse in Osborn this summer.

Hospital foundation celebrates successful year Matt Preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca The Fort St. John Hospital Foundation had a successful year in 2018-19, raising more than $1.2 million in donations and endowments, and buying more than $340,000 in new equipment. The foundation held its annual general meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 25, where the hard work of staff, volunteers, and donors were recognized, and where the foundation turned its gaze to 2022. “We had a great year,” said Chris Maundrell, board chairman. The foundation raised $590,000 in general and designated donations this year, and saw another $631,000 in endowments. Donations came in from a number of events and all age ranges, including the founda-

tion’s signature Bluey Days and Be An Angel campaigns, which raised $79,250 and $304,600, respectively. A new golf tournament in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce raised $14,000, while Energetic Learning Campus students raised close to $5,000 with a golf tournament of their own. Other students, including seven-year-old Sarah Byford raised $800 from a hot chocolate stand, and Charlie Lake students raised $600 at a school bake sale. “Third party events are as valuable as our signature events as they not only do philanthropy through collective action and service, but the word of mouth impact allows the foundation to achieve an even wider engagement,” said Niki Hedges, executive director. The foundation spent close

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to $343,000 on equipment purchases last year, including colonoscopy equipment for cancer treatment, dental drill and tool sets, infant warmers, a vein finder, and dialysis chairs for the hospital. It also purchased a number of furniture items and games for Peace Villa. The hospital foundation was established in January 1994, and celebrated its 25th anniversary this year. Looking ahead, the foundation is eager to start executing its strategic plan through to 2022, with a focus on growing its endowments, building its volunteer base, and extending its reach in the community, particularly with millennials. “It’s very a very courageous plan; it’s achievable, but it’s a lot of work,” Maundrell said. Growing the foundation’s endowments is key to the

foundation becoming less reliant on donations, Maundrell said. “We can’t touch the endowments. They’re locked in, they’re off limits,” he said. “But our investments with those endowments, we can use those to support the community. So, the larger our endowment is, the more support we can give.” Connecting with millennials is key to building a relationship with the next generation of donors, Maundrell said. “We have to build on all of the demographics of the community,” he said. Jim Schilling and Marco Schwab were re-elected to the foundation’s board of directors; Deb Butler stepped down after serving on the board since 2013. Dr. Kevin Page was reappointed as a medical staff representative.

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ALASKA HIGHWAY NEWS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2019 | NEWS | A7

Fort Nelson and Dease Lake homicide investigation Continued from A4 On July 20, 2019, the initial responding Dease Lake RCMP officer seized a surveillance video from a local store in Dease Lake as the member recalled seeing McLeod’s truck in Dease Lake area on July 18, 2019. This is the only store in town that people could use to fuel up and would have been a probable stop for any travellers. The store video from July 18, 2019 at 3:10 p.m. showed McLeod and Schmegelsky purchasing various items including donut packages, a Coffee Crisp chocolate bar and two pairs of gloves. Remnants of these items were recovered in two separate areas near the Dease Lake crime scene on July 22 and July 23, 2019. Furthermore, a damaged SIM card belonging to McLeod and his Walmart employee ID card was located along with these remnants. Six scenes were identified over a 50 kilometer radius. On July 21, 2019, a media release was conducted requesting public’s assistance in locating McLeod and Schmegelsky. On July 22, 2019, at approximately 1:06 p.m., a composite sketch of the victim was released to the public, requesting assistance in identifying the deceased male. On July 22, 2019, a search warrant was executed on the truck and the search involved specialized investigators from across the province as remnants had to be sifted through due to the fire. From the search, a burnt metal ammunition container was located. Although the container was damaged, the numbers 7.62 and 19-75-101 could be identified on the top of the canister. Furthermore, multiple burnt ammunition rounds with head stamp 101 and 75 were seized from the truck. [The ammunition was not located until July 23, 2019.] Police also seized a gas nozzle from a jerry can near the burnt truck. On July 22, 2019, at approximately 07:30 a.m., the Meadow Lake RCMP responded to information that McLeod and Schmegelsky had been at a gas station in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan. At approximately 2:00 p.m., the E Division (BC) Major Crime investigators received the surveillance stills from the Meadow Lake RCMP, which showed McLeod and Schmegelsky associated to a grey coloured Toyota RAV4. At approximately 2:00 p.m., primary investigators became aware of a witness who came forward to a RCMP detachment and provided a statement. The witness knew McLeod and Schmegelsky and believed the boys may have been involved in the murders. This is the first time that police learned that McLeod and Schmegelsky may be capable of the murders which conflicted with original witness statements from family and associates. Composite sketch and photo of Leonard Dyck At approximately 5:00 p.m., Helen Dyck called the police and reported that she believed the composite sketch was her husband Leonard Dyck. Leonard Dyck was a 64-yearold botany lecturer at the University of British Columbia. He left his Vancouver residence on July 16th to go on one of his characteristic outdoor research trips in his silver Toyota RAV4. Helen Dyck stated her husband typically slept in his car after long drives. Leonard Dyck’s last gas purchase was made on July 18th at approximately 7:46 p.m. This store was located approximately 20 kilometers away from where his body was discovered. The Investigative Teams from both files met and it was determined that McLeod and Schmegelsky were no longer considered missing, but were suspects in the Dease Lake and Fort Nelson homicide. McLeod and Schmegelsky were positively identified from the Meadows Lake surveillance video and were associated to a silver coloured Toyota RAV4. Leonard Dyck owned a silver Toyota RAV4. Victims from both scenes suffered gunshot wounds in similar locations and spent casings from both scenes

were of 7.62 x 39mm calibre with the 101 and 75 markings on the head stamp. On the evening of July 22, 2019, McLeod and Schmegelsky were added to CPIC as suspects and arrestable in the murders of Dyck, Deese and Fowler. Bulletins were sent out to Canadian Law Enforcement Agencies advising the same. On the morning of July 23, 2019, a media release was completed and the public was advised of the change of status to suspects for McLeod and Schmegelsky. On July 23, 2019, the E Division (BC) Major Crime Unit investigators working on Dyck homicide and the North District Major Crime Unit working Fowler and Deese homicide merged as a joint team in Fort Nelson. On July 23, 2019, an autopsy was conducted on Leonard Dyck. The preliminary findings showed a single gunshot wound was the cause of the death. On July 24, 2019, the firearms lab provided preliminary findings to the investigators. There were two firearms used in the Fort Nelson homicide, both of 7.62 x 39 mm calibre. One of the guns used in Fort Nelson was used in the Dease Lake homicide. On July 26, 2019, search warrants were executed at McLeod and Schmegelsky’s residence in Port Alberni looking for ammunition and any planning material. There was nothing located of note regarding any pre-planning of the offences or motive. During the homicide investigations in the BC the RCMP issued 10 news releases and conducted a total of 6 press conferences to keep the public informed.

BC RCMP PHOTO

Surveillance footage of Bryer Schemegelsky purchasing a jerry can of gas from a gas station.

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Alaska Highway NEWS

Timeline of McLeod and Schmegelsky Police were able to establish a timeline for McLeod and Schmegelsky. A majority of the below information was learned by investigators after the fact. On July 12, 2019, McLeod and Schmegelsky left their residence in Port Alberni, British Columbia. On the same day, they legally purchased one SKS semi-automatic rifle and a box of 20 rounds of Winchester 7.62 x 39mm ammunition using McLeod’s Possession and Acquisition License at Cabela’s in Nanaimo, BC. On July 14, 2019 at 10:14 a.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky were observed on surveillance video at a business in Chetwynd, British Columbia. On July 14, 2019, at 5:05 p.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky were at a gas station in Fort Nelson. They purchased food, a cowboy hat and fuel from the location. On July 15, 2019, at 1:50 a.m., a surveillance video from Liard Hot Springs Lodge showed a truck travelling northbound on Alaska Highway. It was a pick-up truck with camper and a light bar on the roof, which was consistent with McLeod’s vehicle. On July 15, 2019, at 3:25 a.m., surveillance video from a Watson Lake gas station showed a truck consistent with McLeod’s vehicle travelling northbound on Alaska Highway. [This gas station is located 150 kilometers away from Liard River Hot Springs and would take roughly two hours by driving.] On July 15, 2019, at approximately 7:19 a.m., the Fort Nelson RCMP received a report of two deceased bodies near Liard River Hot Springs. On July 15, 2019, at 4:00 p.m., Schemegelsky and McLeod were at a Whitehorse gas station. They purchased a 20-liter gas jerry can. [A jerry can nozzle was seized from the burnt truck scene.] On July 16, 2019, at approximately 2:30 p.m., a witness was working as a traffic control supervisor near 1435 kilometer marker on the Alaska Highway east of Whitehorse in Yukon. The witness observed an older Dodge truck stopped along the Highway with the hood up and two young males. The witness offered assistance, but one of the males declined help and continued North bound. Continued on A9

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ALASKA HIGHWAY NEWS

A8 | NEWS | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2019

 COURT DOCKET FORT ST. JOHN • Joseph Daniel Gould (born 1964) was given a suspended sentence with a six-month probation order, and ordered to pay a $100 victim surcharge for mischief $5,000 or under.

order and ordered to provide a DNA sample for uttering threats. • Adam Richard Pearson (born 1994) was issued a one-year $500 recognizance after allegation of causing fear of injury or damage. • Leslie James Paul Davis (born 1974) was issued a six-month $500 recognizance after allegation of causing fear of injury or damage.

• Todd Michael Long (born 1968) was sentenced to four days jail and given a one-year probation order for breaching probation.

• Terry Vernar Vankoughnett (born 1966) was ﬁned $500 and issued a $75 victim surcharge for driving while prohibited.

DAWSON CREEK

FORT NELSON

• Michael David Robert Heatley (born 1985) was sentenced to 195 days in jail, issued a one-year probation order, and ordered to provide a DNA sample on two charges of assault with a weapon, and a charge of uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm.

• Mark Douglas Whitehead (born 1985) was issues a 135-day conditional sentence and issued a twoyear criminal driving ban for driving with a blood-alcohol level over .08 and driving while disqualiﬁed.

• Joanita Avalene Campbell (born 1959) was issued an 18-month probation

• Robert Lewis Capot Blanc (born 1957) was sentenced to 15 days jail for assault. Capot Blanc saw ﬁve days jail for breach of undertaking.

Helping animals deep in the Amazon Matt Preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca From the African savanna to the Amazon rainforest, Fort St. John student Brittney Hein continues her trek around the globe as a veterinarian in training. This summer, Hein spent two weeks in Tena, Ecuador, volunteering with a small team at AmaZOOnico Animal Rescue Centre caring for birds, turtles, and other rainforest animals that were victims of wildlife trafficking. It was Hein’s third trip through the Loop Abroad veterinary service program as she completes her studies in animal health technology at Thompson Rivers University. “It was a great experience getting to work with AmaZOOnico, a rescue, rehab, and release centre for mammals, reptiles, and birds,” Hein said. “It was great getting to learn about wildlife conservation in the Amazon Rainforest.” AmaZOOnico is located deep in the Ecuadorian jungle, and accessible only by canoe. The government brings animals to the centre for care and rehabilitation after they are from people keeping them as pets or trading them on the black market. At the centre, Hein had the chance to work with monkeys, parrots, tapir, coatis, peccaries, tigrillos, turtles, and tortoises. She also studied veterinary Spanish and explored the nearby

SUPPLIED PHOTO

Brittney Hein spent two weeks in Tena, Ecuador, volunteering with a small team at AmaZOOnico Animal Rescue Centre caring for birds, turtles, and other rainforest animals that were victims of wildlife trafficking.

town of Tena and the capital city of Quito. Hein has travelled to Thailand and South Africa with Loop

Abroad, which connects students with animal welfare organizations in Thailand, South Africa, Ecuador, and Australia.

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alaska highway news

thursday, october 3, 2019 | NEWS | A9

Fort Nelson and Dease Lake homicide investigation Continued from A7 On July 17, 2019, at approximately 6:27 p.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky were observed at a gas station in Porter Creek in Whitehorse. On July 17, 2019, at approximately 11:40 p.m., a witness was driving westbound on Alaska Highway and pulled off the road into a pullout to take a nap. This was located approximately 30 minutes west from Haines Junction Petro Canada and 2 hours 10 minutes west of Whitehorse. Within 5 minutes of being parked, a truck with camper drove past him and stopped about 50 yards ahead. An unknown male got out of the passenger side of the truck holding a long gun. The male walked towards the tree line and started moving towards the witness in a tactical or hunting stance. The truck also started driving slowly towards the witness. The witness drove away from the armed male and drove past the truck. The driver covered his face with his hand and the witness was not able to see the driver’s face. [Although the witness described the truck as being a white GMC, the time, location and male descriptions fit McLeod and Schmegelsky. The witness made the report to police on July 21, 2019.] On July 18, 2019 at 3:03 p.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky made purchases at a store in Dease Lake as previously mentioned. On July 19, 2019 at approximately 8:29 a.m., Dyck’s body was located by the Dease Lake RCMP. On July 19, 2019, at 11:38 a.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky were observed at a Kitwanga gas station. They were seen in a silver RAV4. [This gas station is located at the junction of Highway 16 and Highway 37 and approximately 420 kilometers south of the Dease Lake homicide scene.] On July 19, 2019, at approximately 4:47 p.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky purchased a crow bar and electrical tape at a Vanderhoof hardware store. [This electrical tape is believed to have been used by McLeod and Schmegelsky to put racing stripes on the hood and back tire of the RAV4 in order to change the appearance of the vehicle. The surveillance video from Vanderhoof showed no distinct marks on the RAV4.] Surveillance video of McLeod and Schmegelsky at a gas station driving a silver RAV 4 with racing stripes on hood and back tire. On July 20, 2019 at 5:34 p.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky were observed making purchases at a gas store in Fairview, Alberta. On July 21, 2019, at 2:30 p.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky were observed at a gas station in Meadow Lake in Saskatchewan, driving a silver RAV4. [This surveillance video established McLeod and Schmegelsky’s links to the Dease Lake homicide as described earlier.] On July 21, 2019, at 7:59 p.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky were observed at a gas station in La Ronge, Saskatchewan in the RAV4. On July 22, 2019, at 1:10 p.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky were observed at the McDonald’s in Thompson, Manitoba. They were driving the RAV4. The surveillance video showed black racing stripes on the hood and back tire of the vehicle. On July 22, 2019, at around 2:30 p.m., a Band Constable from Split Lake, Manitoba was at a check stop near the

released to the public by the RCMP. Conclusion

bc rcmp photo

Bryer Schmegelsky and Kam McLeod burned Leonard Dyck’s stolen vehicle near Gillam, Manitoba. They two planned to march from there to Hudson Bay, where they planned to highjack a boat and go to Europe or Africa.

entrance to Split Lake on Highway 280. A silver SUV was coming from the direction of Thompson and drove past the Band Constable, but stopped eventually. The Band Constable dealt with the two males and allowed them to continue on their way. The following day the Band Constable realized both males were McLeod and Schmegelsky. On July 22, 2019, at 4:12 p.m., McLeod and Schmegelsky purchased gas at a business in Split Lake, Manitoba. On July 23, 2019, at around noon, the Major Crime investigators learned that a burnt RAV4 was located in Gillam, Manitoba on July 22, 2019. Search for McLeod and Schmegelsky On July 22, 2019, Gillam RCMP were dispatched to a vehicle fire. A RAV4 was found burnt and an investigation commenced. On July 23, 2019, officers with the Gillam RCMP reviewed the BC RCMP advisory and believed the vehicle could potentially be associated to the two suspects. On July 23, 2019, at approximately 2:00 p.m. (Central Daylight Time – CDT), Major Crime Investigators from Manitoba RCMP headquarters in Winnipeg were advised of this potential linkage and immediate response initiatives were undertaken. At 4:43 p.m. (CDT), on July 23, 2019, the Manitoba RCMP alerted the public that McLeod and Schmegelsky may be in the Gillam area and were considered dangerous. Additional RCMP officers were deployed to the scene on the afternoon of July 23 and an RCMP plane with infrared capabilities flew over the area that evening. The RCMP plane also flew over the area on July 24. On July 24, the burnt RAV4 was confirmed to be the vehicle that belonged to Leonard Dyck. During the following days, hundreds of RCMP employees and multiple resources assisted and/or were deployed to the Gillam area to search for, and arrest the two suspects in an effort to ensure public safety. In addition, on July 27, the Royal Canadian Air Force began assisting with the search. On July 29, 2019, police located several items belonging to the suspects in the Sundance area, including hundreds of rounds of ammunition from a number of scenes. This led investigators

to focus on locating additional evidence within this area. On August 1, 2019, McLeod’s backpack was located containing a full box of ammunition, McLeod’s wallet with his identification and clothing. On August 2, 2019, police located a damaged boat along the Nelson River [now believed to be unrelated]. On August 4, 2019, an underwater search was conducted where the boat was found. The search did not uncover any additional items linked to the suspects. On August 7, 2019, police located two deceased bodies approximately 8 kilometers away from the burnt RAV4. Police seized two SKS semi-automatic rifles near the deceased males and two spent 7.62 x 39mm cartridges. These rifles were examined by the firearms lab and they were determined to be the same guns used in Fort Nelson and Dease Lake homicides. One of the two guns was determined to be same gun purchased by McLeod and Schmegelsky at the Vancouver Island business. Recovery of digital camera Police recovered a digital camera where the bodies of McLeod and Schmegelsky were located. The camera contained six videos and three still images. In the videos, McLeod and Schmegelsky took responsibility for all three murders. They also described their intent to commit suicide and their wish to be cremated. Below is a summary of the six videos: 1. The video is 58 seconds long and both McLeod and Schmegelsky are observed in the video. Schmegelsky states they are responsible for the three murders. They were going to march to Hudson Bay where they planned to highjack a boat and go to Europe or Africa; 2. This video is 51 seconds long and Schmegelsky states they had reached the river which is very big and fast moving and they may have to commit suicide to which McLeod agrees. They again take credit for killing 3 people and express no remorse; 3. This video is 32 seconds long and Schmegelsky says they have shaved in preparation for their own death. They now plan to go back to kill more people and expect to be dead in a week; 4. This video is 19 seconds long and they describe they

are going to shoot themselves; 5. This video is 6 seconds long and appeared to have been taken unintentionally; 6. This video is 31 seconds long and McLeod and Schmegelsky state this is their last will and testament and express their wish to be cremated. Below is a summary of the 3 still images: • Still image #1 depicts Schmegelsky lying on his side posing with a SKS rife; • Still image #2 is a blurred image and appears to be taken unintentionally as a finger is across the lens; • Still Image #3 depicts McLeod from the chest up and appears to have been taken by McLeod. These videos do not contain any information regarding the motive behind their actions nor do they provide specifics regarding the murders. Forensic analysis to date has been unable to determine the exact date and time for when each of the videos and still images were taken. The digital camera has been identified as Dyck’s. The RCMP Behavioural Analysis Unit (BAU) conducted a review of the videos of McLeod and Schmegelsky. BAU was concerned with a behaviour called “identification”, which is considered a “warning behaviour” in the context of threat assessment. In that, the videos may influence or inspire other individuals to carry out a targeted act of violence, essentially creating copycat killers. In BAU’s experience, those who commit mass casualty attacks are heavily inspired by previous attackers and their behaviours. The BAU consulted with Dr. Reid Meloy, a forensic psychologist and a world leading expert in threat assessment, and he agreed that the videos should not be released. His and others research has shown that those individuals who commit mass casualty attacks are often heavily inspired by previous attackers and their behaviours. BAU believed that McLeod and Schmegelsky may have made the video recordings for notoriety and releasing them will be seen as an injustice to the victims and their families. In an effort to not sensationalize the actions of McLeod and Schmegelsky and to mitigate the potential of other individuals being inspired by McLeod and Schmegelsky to commit similar acts of violence, the videos will not be

The Manitoba Medical Examiner completed the autopsies and confirmed that the two deceased males were McLeod and Schmegelsky and they died from gunshot wounds. Based on the autopsy findings, the firearms lab report, analysis of the scene and the content of the videos it is believed that McLeod shot Schmegelsky before shooting himself in a suicide pact. Based on the firearms lab results, similar offence pattern, timelines of suspects and admissions from McLeod and Schmegelsky, no other suspects are responsible for the three homicides. There were two SKS type firearms used in the offences, one of which has being identified as being purchased by McLeod on July 12, 2019 at the Cabela’s Store in Nanaimo, BC. The second is an older style SKS with numerous serial numbers indicating parts from different weapons were put together over the years. Investigators were unable to identify where this older SKS weapon or parts originated from. Interviews of McLeod and Schmegelsky’s families, teachers and friends, seized evidence from search warrants and the six video recordings did not reveal their motivation for the murders. The investigative theory is that McLeod and Schmegelsky came across Fowler’s van and targeted Fowler and Deese for unknown reasons before continuing up into the Yukon. McLeod and Schmegelsky returned to BC because they were having vehicle issues and came across Dyck who they killed for unknown reasons. McLeod and Schmegelsky burned their vehicle to cover up evidence and delay police before stealing Dyck’s vehicle to facilitate further escape. Over the course of the investigation and search for McLeod and Schmegelsky, the BC RCMP dedicated a large number of resources and specialized units to this large, complex and fast moving investigation. In BC, there were up to 160 police officers and employees working extended shifts on this investigation until McLeod and Schmegelsky were located deceased. The RCMP received over 1500 tips from the public through the dedicated phone tip line, reports to 9-1-1 call centres, front counter reports to police detachments and Crime Stoppers. Between July 16, 2019 and August 4, 2019, nineteen judicial authorizations were sought and granted to further the investigation. An extensive amount of CCTV video was collected during the investigation and 1000’s of hours were reviewed. During the investigation a number of Partner Agencies were used to assist including but not limited to the United States of America and Australia Police Agencies, the BC Prosecution Service, the Canadian Border Services Agency, the Coroners Services in British Columbia and Manitoba, Conservation Officers, Search and Rescue and the Canadian Military. The RCMP would like to thank all Canadians for their vigilance, partner agencies throughout Canada, the United States and Australia as well as the communities that were affected during the search. — BC RCMP

alaska highway news

a10 | NEWS | thursday, OCTOber 3, 2019

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Search on for airport director Matt Preprost editor@ahnfsj.ca The search has begun for a new leader to take the helm at the North Peace Regional Airport. Gordon Duke, managing director, will move on from his post in Fort St. John to become chief executive officer for the Prince George Airport Authority on November 1. “It’s a really good opportunity for myself, and for my wife as well,” Duke said last week. “It’s been great here in Fort St. John. This is an excellent airport with people that really take a lot of pride and care in their work. I’ve been really lucky to have worked here for a couple of years.” Duke came to the city to take over airport operations in November 2017. Since then, the airport has added food and beverage services to the departure lounge, hosted a community runway run, and added First Nations artwork throughout the terminal. In 2018, the airport saw a record number of passengers, at 268,240. Duke called the airport additions big wins, on top of regulatory compliance and delivering strong financial returns to stakeholders. “The runway run was a lot of fun, and certainly got the community out at the airport, which is important,” Duke said. “The addition of First Nations artwork in the terminal building, that was something was was a little bit overdue and adds to the sense of place.” The Vantage Airport Group manages and operates the airport on behalf of the North Peace Airport Society. A search for Duke’s replacement is underway. “We are certainly going to miss Gord’s leadership and operations expertise when he departs at the end of October,” Vantage said in a statement.

Gordon Duke

“During his two years at YXJ, he led the team in a period of growth, overseeing a new capital plan and delivering safe and efficient operations. We wish him all the best in Prince George.” Duke said he’ll spend the next month making sure the transition to his successor is as smooth as possible. “I want to make sure we leave in good shape,” he said. “I’m working on our 2020 capital plan and business plan, and making sure that when the new person comes in here, they’re coming in to a good situation that sets them up for success.” Since he’s only a short five-hour drive down the road, don’t be surprised to see Duke back in the Peace visiting and sightseeing. “The outdoor lifestyle that’s here, the hiking, the snowshoeing, the beautiful scenery has made it fun for my wife and I, and my daughter.”

PROFESSIONAL

Top News Stories

Race Preview

Location: Dover, Del. Date: Sunday, Oct. 6, 2:30 p.m. Last Year’s Pole: Kyle Busch Last Year’s Winner: Chase Elliott

Dover International Speedway

Shape: Oval Distance: 1.0 miles Turns / Straights: 24º / 9º

The Drydene 400 is the fourth race in the NASCAR Cup Series’ Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. In 2020, the race will be removed from the NASCAR playoffs and be held as the penultimate race of the regular season. Dover International Speedway, nicknamed “The Monster Mile”, was built in 1969 by Melvin Joseph of Melvin L. Joseph Construction Company, Inc., with an asphalt surface, but was replaced with concrete in 1995. Six years later in 2001, the track’s capacity moved to 135,000 seats. Twice a year, they pack the stands to watch the drivers of the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series battle fender to fender for victory.

Last Weekend’s Race: Chase Elliott won at Charlotte Chase Elliott rallied through the field to win the Bank of America Roval 400 Sunday at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Elliott scored his third win of the season and his second on a road course. He won at Watkins Glen International earlier this summer. Elliott led a banner day for Hendrick Motorsports as teammates Alex Bowman finished second, William Byron sixth and Jimmie Johnson ninth. Ryan Newman, Aric Almirola, Kurt Busch and Erik Jones were eliminated from championship contention.

Chase Elliott Born: May 24, 1990 Crew Chief: Alan Gustafson Car: Chevrolet

Year 2019 2018

Wins 3 3

Top 10s 13 21

Avg. Finish 12.9 12.2

2019 Standings Cup Series Top Ten Drivers 1) Kyle Busch 2) Martin Truex, Jr. 3) Denny Hamlin 4) Joey Logano 5) Kevin Harvick 6) Chase Elliott 7) Brad Keselowski 8) Kyle Larson 9) Alex Bowman 10) Ryan Blaney

Points 3046 3041 3030 3029 3028 3024 3024 3006 3005 3004

Xfinity Series Top Ten Top 10s 22 18 18 17 20 13 17 14 9 14

Drivers 1) Christopher Bell 2) Cole Custer 3) Tyler Reddick 4) Austin Cindric 5) Justin Allgaier 6) Chase Briscoe 7) Noah Gragson 8) Michael Annett 9) Brandon Jones 10) John Hunter Nemechek

Points 2143 2133 2114 2112 2102 2097 2088 2073 2062 2062

Top 10s 19 20 24 20 20 22 19 16 13 14

Christopher Bell to compete in the Cup Series with Leavine Family Racing in 2020 Christopher Bell officially became the newest young NASCAR talent to sign a deal to race in the sport’s premier series, as Leavine Family Racing announced Tuesday afternoon that Bell will drive the team’s No. 95 Toyota in the NASCAR Cup Series ranks beginning in 2020. Bell is currently a sevenrace winner and 2019 championship contender in the NASCAR Xfinity Series driving the No. 20 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing. His present Xfinity Series crew chief Jason Ratcliff will retain the same position with Bell at the Cup level with LFR. Bell also brings sponsorship from Rheem and Procure and his new team is already aligned with the Joe Gibbs Racing organization he currently competes with, easing the transition. “It’s kind of like Christmas early,’’ team owner Bob Leavine told the racing media Tuesday. “It’s a pretty special time for LFR. Everyone here … is all excited about our possibilities.’’ Bell, a 24-year-old Oklahoma native, has quickly become one of NASCAR’s nextgeneration stars. He won five races en route to the 2017 NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series championship and then won seven races in his first full Xfinity Series season while finishing fourth in the 2018 championship standings. His move to the Cup ranks this season was seen as inevitable by most racing insiders.

Racing Trivia Who was the last driver to win consecutive races at Dover? a) Kevin Harvick b) Jimmie Johnson

c) Tony Stewart d) Kyle Busch

Answer : b) Jimmie Johnson

This Week’s Cup Series Race: Drydene 400

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alaska highway news

b7 | sports | thursday, october 3, 2019

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$379,900 4173 Lebell Cres, MLS# R2385573

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mpire How does a va start a letter?

y concern...

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alaska highway news

b8 | sportS | thursday, october 3, 2019

2019 Peace Motocross Association champions The 2019 Peace Motocross Association has come and gone. The PMA held its annual awards ceremony in Peace River this year, on September 21, 2019. More than 50 trophies were handed out to the large group of racers and their families from all over the Peace Region. Below are the division champions and the 2019 trophy winners. 2019 Trophy Winners Sportsmanship Justin Schroeder Adam Haycock 50cc (4-6) Intermediate 1st Bentley Banks 2nd Mayson Patenaude 3rd Hank Tallefer

50cc (7-11) 1st Cruz Gordon 2nd Lyndon Patenaude 3rd Justin Schroeder

80cc (12-16) 1st Carter Roberts 2nd Hunter Kromm 3rd Addison Marcy

MX2 Expert 1st Spencer Cage 2nd Riley Sorensen 3rd Ethan Toews

50cc Open 1st Cruz Gordon 2nd Lyndon Patenaude 3rd Hunter Stephen

Supermini 1st Carter Roberts 2nd Hunter McFadden 3rd Jayden Ostaszewski

MX 3 Junior 1st Tyrel Conway 2nd Kiegan Dodd 3rd Dustin Smilar

65cc 1st Drew Roberts 2nd Marshall Krafczyk 3rd Hunter McAstocker

Ladies 1st Caslynd Plante 2nd Hayley Wuthrich 3rd Chelan Harvey

MX3 Intermediate 1st Trentyn Calloway 2nd Seth Pleice 3rd Tyler Schulte

Young Ladies 1st Ebiny Conway 2nd River Hockman 3rd Teegan Hood

Schoolboy 1st Kiegan Dodd 2nd Dane Ketter 3rd Logan Finnebraaten

MX3 Expert 1st Chris Landaker 2nd Dallas Taylor 3rd Conan Fowler

80cc (7-11) 1st Jayden Ostaszewski 2nd Drew Roberts 3rd Cormick McFadden

Youth 1st Spencer Cage 2nd Chris Landaker 3rd Dallas Taylor

Vet Junior 1st Peter Douglas 2nd Ryan Shanks 3rd Chris France

MX2 Junior 1st Tyrel Conley 2nd Kiegen Dodd 3rd Dane Ketter

Vet Master 1st Conan Fowler 2nd Russell Fraser 3rd Justin Lundstrom

MX2 Intermediate 1st Brennan Voth 2nd Seth Pleice 3rd Logan Fowler

40+ 1st Conan Fowler 2nd Peter Douglas 3rd Chris France

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High School Rodeo results The 2019-20 North Region High School Rodeo season continued last weekend with two one-day rodeos in Hudsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hope, Sept. 21 and 22. The season began with a rodeo in Prince George at the end of August. For the seniors, Kendall Esau and Tucker Esau were the all around winners on Saturday, and Tyler Bondaroff and Zane Jones were the all around winners on Sunday. On the junior side, Shelby Corr was the all around cowgirl both days, and Danny Jones and Korbin Mills won the all around cowboy title on Saturday and Sunday, respectively. There are two more weekends of high school rodeo before riders take a break for the winter. The next rodeo is in Chetwynd, September 27 and 28. Below are the top three qualified runs for each event. Barrel Racing

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alaska highway news

thursday, OCtOber 3, 2019 | classifieds | B9

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TOPS 3907: Take Off Pounds Sensibly Meet Thursday mornings 9:30 am New Beginnings Baptist Church 1022118th St. Phone Marge 780-864-5205 for more info.

TOPS Evening Sessions Meet Thursday at 6:00 pm New Beginnings Baptist Church in DC, 10221-18th St Phone: Judy 250-7829540 or Gail 250-782-7208 for more info.

Announcements

Coming EvEnts

SUNDAYS: FAMILY TREE HELP - Peace Country Roots Group Meeting - Fourth Sunday of each Month at the Calvin Kruk Centre in Dawson Creek 1:30pm 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/ Better at Home 9th Anniversary Open House Tuesday, October 8, 2019 12:30 - 2:30 pm Better at Home office in the Co-op Mall Dawson Creek, Join us as we celebrate 9 years of helping local seniors to remain independently in their own homes. Refreshments will be served. www.dcbetterathome.org 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. Mile “O” Quilter’s Guild meets every Tuesday & Thursday in Dawson Creek at KPAC in Studio #10 at 7pm PC Roots Group Building Open: Every Saturday SeptJune 10:00am12:00pm 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- 250782-4058. Neil- 250782-7651. Website http://peacecountryroots.ca Pouce Coupe Legion will be serving Schnitzel supper Friday October 4 at 6pm. Hope to see you there! SATURDAYS: LEARN YOUR ROOTS - Genealogy information NAR Park Roots Building. 10:00am peacecountryroots.ca Save the Dates July 10-12, 2020 for the Mile Zero Cruisers Summer Cruise weekend Bring down your pride and joy and register for the Car Show weekend. For online Registration and more information: MileZeroCruisers.com

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

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Office/ clerical

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Obituaries

In Loving Memory of

Jeanne (Leslie) Roberta O’Brien 26-May-1948 to 17-September-2019

Announcements

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The Fort St. John Pilot Project is a collaborative forest management planning initiative between forest licencees and the BC Timber Sales Program in the Fort St. John Timber Supply Area. A Pilot Advisory Group (PAG) meeting will be held on Thursday, October 10, 2019 in the Fort St. John Northern Grand Hotel. The purpose of the meeting is to provide information to the public on progress made by the forest licencees and the BC Timber Sales Program in achieving sustainable forest management. The general public is invited to attend the public portion of the meeting, which starts at 6:00 pm. Public intending to make a presentation must contact Peter Zhang one week prior to the public meeting. For further information on the Fort St. John Pilot Project, visit our website at www.fsjpilotproject.com

For information concerning the meeting or how to become a PAG member, contact Peter Zhang @ 250-261-8061/Peter.Zhang@canfor.com

LegaL/PubLic Notices

ALTUS GEOMATICS We are now accepting applications for a BC Land Surveyor/ Branch Manager. Email: geomaticse mployment@altus group.com Learn more at: altusgeomatics.co m

Obituaries

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It is with deep sorrow the O’Brien Family of Westbank BC announce the peaceful passing of Jeanne (Leslie) Roberta O’Brien on 17-September-2019. Survived by her loving husband of 47 years Albert (Bert) James O’Brien, Daughter Desiree O’Brien, Grandsons Daniel and Liam O’Brien, as well as numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews. Jeanne will be remembered as a strong willed, loving, supportive, independent woman who always faced life’s challenges head on. Who found ways to move mountains while smiling in the face of adversity as she succeeded at every turn. With self driven motivation, perseverance, infectious smile and warm genuine nature, Jeanne became a highly successful accountant turned Real-Estate Agent in Edmonton AB, Fort Saint John and Kelowna BC earning her a place in the real-estate hall of fame.

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Jeanne loved the communities she called home and within each she chose to be an active supporter volunteering her time and sponsoring youth programs such as Minor Hockey and the Environmental Preservation ProgramDucks Unlimited. Her kindness and support will be forever missed. A memorial service for Jeanne will be held at the West Kelowna United Church, 3672 Brown Road, West Kelowna, BC at 1:00 p.m., Friday October 4th, 2019. In leu of flowers, donations in Jeanne’s Memory can be made in her name to the Central Okanagan Hospice House in Kelowna BC. (www.hospicehousekelowna.com) A special thank you to the staff and volunteers at Kelowna Hospice House and Dr. Jill Montgomery for the kindness, love and support given to Jeanne and her family during her final days. “Though they show no wings, true angels do exist among us” Arrangements are in care of Everden Rust Funeral Services & Crematorium, West Kelowna Arrangement Centre (250-768-8925). Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.everdenrust.com

Obituaries

Public Notice Proposed Installation at 9-15-87-21 W6M Plateau Pipe Line Ltd. is proposing to construct a new 107-metre communications tower at Mile 73 off the Alaska Highway, located at 9-15-87-21 W6M in Peace River Regional District , British Columbia. The installation of this new tower is required to support the enhanced radio capacity needed to monitor and remotely control Plateau’s facility. Subject to regulatory review and approval, the tower’s construction is scheduled to start in the first/second quarter of 2020. Construction will take approximately six months to complete.

Obituaries

Stella Margaret Wolff

March 3, 1917 - September 27, 2019 (Age 102 ½)

LegaL/PubLic Notices

Plateau Pipe Line Ltd.

Obituaries

S Stella was born March 3, 1917 at Grey Nun’s Hospital in Regina, Saskatchewan N tto parents Robert Blackadder Thomson and Josephine Sparvier Thomson. a S Stella’s mom died of tuberculosis about 1925 leaving Stella (8), Amelia (Amy 6 6) and Josephine (Jo 3) and their dad. A After trying a number of housekeepers, S Stella’s dad decided that a catholic girl’s s school would be the best place for his d daughters. This decision was believed to have been influenced by his sister in law (Julienne Sparvier) who was a Sister at the Saint Boniface Catholic Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba. When Stella was 16 she decided that the girls would return home to reunite with their father and where she took on the responsibility of looking after the family. A number of years later Stella met Arthur Wolff and they married in 1941. They made their home in several communities from Hamilton, Ontario to Regina and Carrot River, Saskatchewan. With each move, the family grew with the births of Joanne, Douglas and James. The family moved to Fort St John in 1957, where Art (also known as Foxy) found employment at Westcoast Transmission. They bought property from the Gladysz family near Mile 54 on the Alaska Highway where Foxy built a duplex; one side for their family home and the other side for Foxy’s Gun Shop. Most old-timers will remember the location with the infamous landmark – a 10 foot bear that stood guard out front. Winters in Arizona enhanced Stella’s love of golf and she was a regular at Lake Point Golf & Country Club for over 30 years. She was a huge fan of Tiger Woods - so much so, it can be said that she watched every televised game he played (even the repeats) and read any book or magazine that featured her favorite golfer. Stella and her daughter Joanne moved to Kelowna in 2013 to enjoy warmer winters and extended summers. Active all her life, from badminton in her teens to golf, bowling and community dances in her later years, she resented when she was forced to use a cane - and then (gasp) a walker. “Getting old is not for sissies” she often preached. Stella was predeceased by her sisters Amy and Jo, her sister in law Patricia Poole, Arthur (Foxy) Wolff and her son James. She leaves behind her daughter Joanne Holmes, son Douglas Wolff (Jacqueline), daughter in law Margaret Wolff, grandchildren Theresa Mucci-Rodgers (Ron), Mirella Butler (Gordon), Tara Hotson (Doug), Vining Wolff, Kyle Wolff, Katrina Wolff, 11 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Stella loved early mornings, a good book and solving puzzles. She loved sharing a good giggle but was extremely stingy when it came to sharing her short bread cookies! Stella lived to be 102 and a half. Over a hundred years of living and she did so right up until the end. Stella went home in the wee early hours of September 27th with her daughter by her side. Rest in peace Stella…

If you have any questions, concerns or would like more information on this proposed installation, please contact Plateau’s Land Department at: 403-231-7500 or toll-free at 1-888-428-3222, or email at: LandRequests@pembina.com Interested parties have 30 days from the date of this notice’s publication to express their concerns in writing to: Plateau Pipe Line Ltd. c/o Pembina Pipeline Corporation 4000, 585-8th Ave SW Calgary, AB T2P 1G1 www.pembina.com

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alaska highway news

thursday, OCTOber 3, 2019 | classifieds | B10

Something to sell? Something to swap? Have you lost something? Or found something?

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book your ad now!

Reach 10,391 homes and businesses in Fort St. John and surrounding area h 250-785-5631 / classifieds@ahnfsj.ca

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WHAT AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY! Northern Savings Credit Union is looking for a temporary 2 year Finance & Accounting Officer located in Prince Rupert, BC. This position will provide support to the Finance department while performing advanced account functions. The Finance & Accounting Officer is responsible for providing efficient and accurate resolutions while providing exceptional member service. Experience what Northwest BC has to offer. Experience the Northern Way. To apply visit www.northsave.com

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Please Recycle this Newspaper Temerarious Tabias

See No Evil

here was a new girl in school. In C block, Tabias sat in front of her. He could hear her pencil scribbling furiously taking notes. It was so distracting; he couldn’t pay attention to Mr. Mark teaching history. Tabias knew the girl’s name and had heard lots of rumors already. “Jessica cures baby birds, she’s that kind.” “She can slam dunk without looking, she’s that tall.” “She weights lifts cars, she’s that strong.” “Her hair is so silky; she washes it with milk.” Everyone spoke of the new girl, Jessica, as if she were a saint. Yet, her pencil seemed to continue scribbling even when the teacher stopped talking. Tabias dared a peek at her notes, but he stared too long, and she caught him. “What are you looking at?” she growled from beneath her mane of platinum blonde. Her eyes were angry with thick black liner and her lips deep purple hue. “You’re not writing notes at all,” Tabias gasped, “and you look emo up close.” “Idiot.” Jessica put her head back down. The pencil ran frantically over the drawing of trees burning and deer running wild. It was a good drawing, but pretty dark for a girl. “It’s cool,” Tabias commented. “Dude, turn around. I don’t want to talk to you.” She never even looked up. Tabias turned back around, even more determined to speak with Jessica. No one else at school hung

out with her at recess or lunch. It was like she appeared so perfect to everyone else that she turned into the plague and they avoided her at all costs, never bothering to ask if she wanted to hang. By Friday, Tabias had worked himself up to speak to her again since all the info he could get from anyone else was mere; she’s too popular, she doesn’t need friends. Tabias growled and replied, “isn’t that an oxymoron?” It was after school on Friday that he got his chance, Tabias missed the school bus on purpose. Jessica was already two blocks ahead of him, so he had to run. And fast. “What do you want now?” Jessica hissed as Tabias slowed and stopped next to her, hffing and puffing. It took him a minute to catch his breath, but Jessica stood to stare at him. Waiting to hear what was so important. “I don’t believe what everyone else says about you. I don’t think you’re a superhero. I’m not afraid of how strong you might be. It’s OK to wear black makeup even when people whispered you’re a princess. I can understand if you don’t want friends, but maybe we could slingshot some stones at those people’s windows together sometime?” Jessica sniffled and hugged him. “Maybe we can shoot baby birds instead.” “Perfect,” Tabias replied. Norma Rrae is an author based in Fort St. John. Read more at notmewriting.com.

ALASKA HIGHWAY NEWS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2019 | CLASSIFIEDS | B11

City needs common sense as challenges grow

ell, summer is over. It was wet, but there were less forest fires! Our farmers have great looking crops, but need dry weather to get them off. In the meantime, we’re still in turmoil over trade with China, so great canola crops have a limited market. The federal election campaign is halfway through, and the Liberals are desperately trying to bribe voters with their grandchildren’s money, exploding the deficit even further. I guess they learned how to bribe from SNC Lavalin and Bombardier. The NDP and Greens want to destroy our oil and

gas industry – seemingly oblivious to the fact their approach would decimate the entire economy – reducing Canada’s standard of living to that of countries like Greece and Albania. Meanwhile the climate hysteria continues on like Chicken Little — “the sky is falling!” Our local oil and gas economy is soft, with companies like Petronas abandoning all their sour gas wells, and CNOC (formerly Nexen) abandoning all their wells and pipelines in the Horn River North of Fort Nelson. Our forest industry is in crisis, the most efficient OSB mill in Nort America closed

indefinitely, and Canfor’s most efficient sawmill is talking extended shutdowns. I’m not trying to depress you, but all these challenges I have repeatedly raised in my last 17 columns. Most of those columns addressed city issues, and I received virtually no comment from the city. Finally, I received an email from the city manager, stating in effect they had no intention of responding to newspaper columns or social media posts other than those directed through the city website or directly. So, in the latter part of June, I sent all my columns by email directly to the city

manager, the mayor, and all members of Council. That was over three months ago. What response did I get, you ask? Silence. Nothing. If they won’t respond to me, can you realistically expect them to respond to you and your concerns – other than perhaps potholes or loose dogs? I wouldn’t hold my breath! In a time when the right economic policy is to cut expenses like the local patch and forestry folks have to – we’d better start looking for a future mayor, council and manager with some guts and backbone – and common sense. It’s not too late for the

STEVE THORLAKSON existing office holders to step up loudly and publicly live within the taxpayers’ means, but more members of the public need to speak up as well, or we can expect more of the same. The definition of insanity is doing over again what doesn’t work while expecting different results. Time for you to step up and be counted.

alaska highway news

B12 | sports | thursday, OCTOber 3, 2019

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