Inside
u Getting moving P. 12 u History for the dogs P. 5
u Court report P. 9 u Wanted P. 3
Publications Mail Contract #: 40007759
PHONE: 996-8482 www.caledoniacourier.com
WEDNESDAY, December 12, 2012
NEWS BRIEFS Take your pick
Two contenders are vying for the NDP nomination to become the Nechako Lakes candidate for the BC New Democratic Party (NDP). Sussanne Skidmore Hewlett and Debora Munoz are both running for the spot, which Skidmore said she sees as a good sign in a riding where candidates normally receive little opposition. Party members will be voting by Dec. 15, and so a candidate will be announced after polls close at 3 p.m. the same day. Current Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad will then defend his seat as the incumbent for the Liberals against the successful NDP member.
New age update The Fort St. James National Historic Site has had an online update. The website for the park now has information on the new visitor centre displays, Chief Kweh, James Douglas, and Father A.G. Morice all three of whom are persons of national historic significance - and information on special events and programs for 2013. To see for yourself, go to: www. parkscanada.gc.ca/ fortstjames
VOL. 35 NO. 41 $1.34 inc. GST
A sign of the season
Reindeer wave from one of the festive floats during the Santa Claus Parade on Nov. 30. The parade drew a good crowd, despite a cool wind and blowing snow earlier in the day. More photos on Page 6. Ruth Lloyd/Caledonia Courier
Given notice
In an effort to make use of grant funding, community centre may use an existing building
Ruth Lloyd Caledonia Courier
A community centre may be a little bit closer to becoming a reality for Fort St. James. Mayor Rob MacDougall said negotiations are currently underway on a purchase price for a building which could be repurposed as a community centre. “For us, a stand-alone new construction isn’t feasible for the size of the tax base and the other commitments we have to infrastructure,” said MacDougall. In the interest of finding a way to move forward, and with the potential loss of $900,000 in grant funding looming on the horizon, mayor and council and the community hall committee looked at a couple of options, including the old gymnasium at Fort St. James Secondary School and the building which houses the Victory Christian Centre and what was the Birch Theatre. The latter building is owned by the Goodwin family’s property company Columbine Investments Ltd. While a dollar figure for the Christian centre and theatre building has not yet been agreed upon, negotiations are underway and if one is found which can accommodate the budget of the community hall committee, then mayor and council, in consultation with the committee, will vote on moving the process forward. MacDougall said he is hoping to see some movement within the next month once a building cost is determined. “This is the best choice that we have and
we’re in dire need of a community centre,” said MacDougall and he wants to be able to move forward on the hard work the committee has done in securing the funding they have. After a couple of extensions for some of it, the province has given notice the $900,000 in provincial grant funding which had been allotted to a new community hall will need to be used or at least allocated to a solid project plan before March 31, 2013. The notice came in a letter from Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Bill Bennett in response to a meeting at the Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention with Mayor Rob MacDougall and Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad. Bennett said the Towns for Tomorrow program is ending in 2013, and there is still a large shortfall if Fort St. James stayed with the proposed construction of a $3.8 million building next to the arena which the committee had come up with. Bennett advised MacDougall to speak to the mayor of Elkford, a community which overcame a similar dilemma. MacDougall said he looked at the building in Elkford, but he did not consult their mayor as the cost of new construction would still have been too high and the timelines involved for new construction before the funding expires are too short. The push to build a new community centre, something Fort St. James has been without since 1982, started with a donation of $500,000 from the Hoy family in 2007. The District of Fort St. James has now taken out a loan request for $280,000 to contribute to the project.
Funding finalized for North Road The province has announced $2.5 million in funding for improvements to the Germansen Landing Road. While Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad had announced funding to the Germansen Landing/North Road in September, the province has finalized a figure for the improvements. Improvements will take place on the first 57 km of the road from the Fort St. James municipal boundary, and will repair the road base, gravel the road, improve ditches and brush out sight lines on the route. Areas have been identified where road base repair and ditching are most needed and the brushing will take place between kilometres 22 and 30. Work on the road base started in June of 2012 and the entire project is expected to be done by Sept. 30, 2013. Rustad credits the community of Fort St. James with the realization of the project. “This upgrade to Germansen Landing Road is a demonstration of the tenacity of the people of Fort St. James and surrounding communities in coming together to accomplish something,” he said.
NEWS Timber deal reached to rebuild mill Courier
by dust explosions.
beetle epidemic.
tion,” Rustad said. The deal also depended on re-inventory of areas affected by pine beetle, after the mined it could sup- epidemic has run its port existing mills course. He said invenin the region and a tory work in the Quesreconstructed Babine nel forest district, sawmill. It requires which was infested BeaverOnGolfCourseC0804.EPS all six aboriginal earlier, has shown a communities in the better survival rate of region to commit trees and stronger reHot RetailtimCo-op Categories Accessories and Supplies ber rights toBicycles, the new growth than expected. Lawn and Garden mill, including new Cariboo North Motorcycles and Snowmobiles area-based Outdoor Crown FurnishingsMLA Bob Simpson Vehiclesdisputed that concluforest tenuresRecreational that the B.C. government has sion, saying Rustad is Hot Manufacturer Co-op promised toBenjamin award overstating the results Moore Paints Camp Healthcare under legislation that from Quesnel. Simpstill must be Grasshopper passed. Mowersson said the Quesnel Rolex Watch “I can imagine forest is more producWhirlpool the Corporation other mills in the area tive than the northwould much rather west, and the optimisAdBuilder Special Section Builder Themes have seen •Hampton tic projection depends Financial not rebuilt, • Planning because a Garden on beetle-killed wood • Earth Daylog it means easier being harvested while • Easter access for them, and live trees are left for not as much Special competilater, which is not Events
Month-long Events “I’m very pleased Rustad chaired Alcohol Awareness Month with the decision,” the committee that National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. partners212-269-7797 in the said Nechako Lakes reviewed the timber www.ncadd.org MLA John Rustad, Lake sawmill supply and deter-
The Burns destroyed in aChildfatal who joined officials Abuse Prevention Month fire in JanuaryPrevent have in Burns Child Abuse America Lake Tuesaccepted the 312-663-3520 condi- day for the announcewww.preventchildabuse.org tions for rebuilding ment. He said it delivthe mill. ers on a promise made Jazz Appreciation Month Smithsonian National of American History To the commuby Museum Premier Christy 202-633-3129 nity’s relief, the an- Clark when she viswww.smithsonianjazz.org nouncement comes ited the community in despite last week’s theMonth hours after disasNational Car Care Care Council decision by Car Workter struck. 240-333-1088 SafeBC to refer their Steve Zika, CEO www.carcare.org fire investigations at of Oregon-based DonateHampton Life Month Babine Forest National ProdAffiliates, Department of Health and Human Services ucts in BurnsU.S. Lake and Albert Gerow, 202-619-0257 and a later fire at CEO of Burns Lake www.organdonor.gov Lakeland Mills in Native Development Nationalto Lawn Care Month announced in Prince George, Corp., PLANET, Professional Landcare Network Crown counsel for September that they 800-395-2522 www.landcarenetwork.org possible charges. would rebuild if an Two workers died and agreement could be National Parkinson Awareness Month 42 others injured reached National in Parkinson Foundation,with Inc. the B.C. the two fires, 800-327-4545 which government to supWorkSafeBC www.parkinson.org con- ply enough timber in cluded were Prevention caused of Animal the Cruelty wakeMonth of the pine
®
NCAA Men’s Final Four Championship NCAA Women’s Final Four Championship National Stress Awareness Day National Volunteer Week Week of the Young Child Boston Marathon National Jelly Bean Day Take Our Daughters/Sons to Work Day
ASPCA, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals 212-876-7700 www.aspca.org
happening. “It’s all a hyperoptimistic what-if exercise by some silviculture people,” Simpson said. The government plans to table legislation in the new year to allow area-based forest licences to be directly awarded to aboriginal communities, and supplemental licences that allow greater access to waste wood for pellets and other biofuel. The WorkSafeBC investigation found that the most likely fuel source for the two explosions was fine, dry dust, which increases when mills cut dry trees killed by beetles. The likely ignition source in both cases was motor and
gear assemblies running waste conveyors in low, confined areas
of the mills subject to heavy dust accumulation.
“A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN OUR REGION” 37, 3RD Avenue, PH: 250-692-3195 PO Box 820, TF: 800-320-3339 Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 FX: 250-692-3305 www.rdbn.bc.ca E-MAIL:inquiries@rdbn.bc.ca
The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako will be closed December 24th to January 1st and will reopen with regular hours on January 2nd, 2013. DaffodilsHC0804.EPS
Season’s Greetings! We’re hoping your holiday is full of laughter and friends, health and happiness.
ManRidingLawnMowerC0804.EPS
Tom Fletcher Black Press
Wednesday, December 12, 2012 Caledonia Courier
MomGirlHuggingTreeC0804.EPS
A2 www.caledoniacourier.com
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District of Fort St. James Calendar December, 2012
SUNDAY
MONDAY
9March 2009
Municipal Website: www.fortstjames.ca
M T W T F 2 3 4 5 6 Public Skating 9 10 11 12 13 5:45-7:15pm 16 17 18 19 20 23 24 25 26 27 30 31
S 7 14 21 28
16 5 Palm Sunday
Public Skating 5:45-7:15pm
10May 2009 M
T
W
T
3 10 17 24 31
4 11 18 25
5 12 19 26
6 13 20 27
7 14 21 28
F 1 8 15 22 29
S 2 9 16 23 30
31
30 19
January, 2013
128NEW YEAR’S DAY Workers Mourning Day
27
Igniting Your Ad Sales
Public Skating 7:45-8:45pm
SATURDAY 415
Deadline for CNC Short Story Writing Contest
21 10 Good Friday
22 11
Public Skating 7:45-8:45pm
28 17
27 16 District Office CLOSED
District Office CLOSED
Public Skating 7:45-8:45pm
29 18
District Office CLOSED
Day Day 22 Earth *Dog Licences need23to be renewed 24 forArbor January 2013.25 Anzac Day (Australia) Administrative Professionals DayCtr Lunch, Mon, Wed, & Fri 11:30 - 2pm *Seniors *All Wednesdays Hoop Dance 6:45 - 7:45pm @ Sowchea
Public Skating 5:45-7:15pm
26
Fill That Bus Challenge
Hoop Dance 6:457:45pm @ Sowchea
District Office CLOSED
21
20 Taurus
14 3
20 9 First Day of Passover
DAY 25 14 CHRISTMAS DAY 26 15 TaxBOXING Day
District Office CLOSED
Public Skating 5:45-7:15pm
FRIDAY
13 2
Fill That Bus Challenge
& Fun @ Kwah Hall 5-8pm 1pm Cancer Support Group @ Sue’s Call 996-8639 for more info Easter Monday (Australia & Canada)
THURSDAY
Hoop Dance 6:457:45pm @ Sowchea
18 7 Christmas Crafts 19 8
17 6
24 13
12 1April Fool’s Day
11
S
Evangelical Church Christmas Prgrm @ 7pm
23 12 Easter
WEDNESDAY
(Canada)
District Office CLOSED
2
29
4
330
Hoop Dance 6:457:45pm @ Sowchea
5
Please submit all events by Wednesday for the next Wednesday paper distribution. office@fortstjames.ca
S 1 8 15 22 29
TUESDAY
Public Skating 7:45-8:45pm
2012 Christmas Food, Toy & Winter Clothing Drive December • AdBuilder 12th Retail & 13th: Fill That Bus Challenge ®
AdBuilder.com November 30th to December 18th: Tree of Warmth -
FSJSS Student Council will be touring FSJ in a school bus asking for donations of food, toys and winter clothing. • AdBuilder Classified Don’t worry if you miss• the - there Co-opbus Sales Ideas are also collection boxes throughout our community! ®
Decorate the Christmas tree at hub International Barton Insurance with mitts, scarves & toques.
Office: 477 Stuart Drive West
Telephone: 250-996-8233
Follow us on Twitter: @DFSJames
Like us at Facebook: District of Fort St. James
Email: office@fortstjames.ca
NEWS Greyhound decision
Caledonia Courier Wednesday, December 12, 2012
www.caledoniacourier.com A3
Courier
still pending
The B.C. Transportation Board is still working on the decision to approve or deny Greyhound’s request for a reduction in route minimums. The decision could come in mid-December, but is likely to take until after the new year. The Board received around 160
submissions on the proposal for service reduction. The company hopes to save $6.7 million through route reductions. The lack of a local office for Greyhound services continues as well, but is a separate issue, according to Lyn Potts, a Greyhound representative for the area.
She said the size of Fort St. James and low usage rates mean having a stand-alone office in the town is not feasible, but they are still searching for a local business to partner with. As with the taxi office, Greyhound would want to partner with an existing business to add income to the current business.
Lakeshore Realty FORT ST. JAMES PUBLIC LIBRARY HOURS... Tuesday 11:30-8:00 Wednesday 11:30-4:30
Potential partners would need to pass a background check, have appropriate parking nearby for the bus, preferably have a seat or two for passengers and a rest room. “Whether or not we reduce runs … we still will be doing express shipments to that community,” she said.
Thursday 11:30-4:30 Friday 11:30-8:00
529 Fir Street Great for first time home buyer - it’s cheaper than rent OR investment property - rentals are in demand. Four bedroom mobile home on deeded land on the greenbelt. Fresh paint, bathroom renos, new interior doors, all appliances, plus BI dishwasher included. Private backyard with large covered deck and two storage sheds. Some furniture could be included. Quick possession possible. $63,500
Saturday 11:00-3:00
You’ll find us at 169 STUART DRIVE, FSJ lkshore@telus.net 250-996-8618
Do you want to practise forestry in BC? New forestry designation available now
Wanted
The Natural Resource Professional (or NRP) designation is new and recent grads from natural resources conservation programs at the University of BC, Thompson Rivers University and the University of Northern BC can apply today. The NRP designation will allow you to practise aspects of professional forestry in every corner of the province. You might find yourself working for government, consultants, industry, Aboriginal groups and more! For more information and to see which programs qualify, visit our website at www.abcfp.ca.
The RCMP are asking the public to help locate a male, Kenneth Holdis, for arrest. Two separate arrest warrants have been issued against Holdis for a range of serious offenses, including break and enter, assault, mischief and break and enter with intent. “We’re just asking if people have any idea of his whereabouts, if they could just call the Fort St. James RCMP,” said Sergeant Hanson of the Fort St. James RCMP detachment. “They don’t have to give their name. We’re just looking for information.” Anyone with information that can help lead to the arrest of Kenneth Holdis is being asked to contact the Fort St. James RCMP at 250.996.8269 or call Crime Stoppers at 1.800.222.TIPS (8477). Right: RCMP are looking for Kenneth Holdis, and anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the RCMP at: 250-9968269 or drop the information in an envelope addressed to the RCMP at the post office.
Photo courtesy of RCMP
FORT ADULT CENTRE FOR EDUCATION...Suite 221250 Stuart Drive, in the Goodwin Building. Open daily 8:004:00. Call 250-996-7712 for more information.
ATTENTION: All Advertisers EARLY DEADLINES
8
EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH WELCOMES YOU! 4th Avenue W & Birch Street
SUNDAY SCHOOL .........10:30 am - 12 Noon MORNING WORSHIP ....10:30 am - 12 Noon Church Office 996-7261
OUR LADY OF THE SNOWS Due to the holiday season, Santa and all the elves at the Caledonia Courier have got to rest! Therefore we will have early deadlines for all Display and Classified advertising.
DECEMBER 26 ISSUE Deadline: Noon Wed December 19 JANUARY 2 ISSUE Deadline: Noon, Mon, Dec 24 OFFICE CLOSED Dec 25 & 26 & Jan 1
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH (Across from the Petrocan Station)
SUNDAY LITURGY: Saturday 7:30 pm & Sunday 10:30 am DAILY MASS: Monday - Friday 9:00 am PASTORAL TEAM: FATHER FRANK SALMON 250-996-8343 SR. JANE DWYER, SR. PAT MACAULAY, SR. DIVINA PEDRO
250-996-2275
THE CHURCHES OF FORT ST. JAMES
Sarah FortisBC, Dispatch Coordinator
A safe holiday is a happy holiday Make safety a priority this holiday season with these simple tips: • Never kick or hit your meter if ice builds up. Call us for assistance at 1-888-224-2710. • After a snowfall, brush snow away from your meters by hand and clear a path for the safety of our meter readers. • Around your fireplace, consider using a hearth safety gate to help protect small children from the heated glass. For more winter safety tips, visit fortisbc.com/safety.
250-567-9258
FortisBC uses the FortisBC Energy name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (12-336.4 12/2012)
Editorial Page
A4 www.caledoniacourier.com
AUDIT
Wednesday, December 12, 2012 Caledonia Courier
The Caledonia Courier is a member of the British
Distributed every Wednesday in Fort St. James
Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body
Publisher: Pam Berger pam@ominecaexpress.com
governing the province’s newspaper industry. The
Editor Ruth Lloyd newsroom@ caledoniacourier.com
council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member
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Address: Box 1298 Fort St. James, BC VOJ 1P0
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the mediation of complaints, with input from both the holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about you may contact the B.C. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2.
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For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
• Column...
• Letter...
Poverty politics Tom Fletcher Black Press B.C.’s ritual day of shame over child poverty has come and gone once again, with politicians trading blame and time-worn talking points. The occasion was an annual gathering staged at the B.C. Teachers’ Federation office in downtown Vancouver. It is organized by First Call, an umbrella group sponsored by the BCTF, the B.C. Government Employees’ Union and a collection of like-minded “anti-poverty activists,” as they describe themselves in their latest report. The familiar script unfolded. The report misinterprets federal income statistics from two years ago and calls for a long list of uncosted, but hugely expensive measures that they assert will make B.C. the first jurisdiction in human history to eradicate poverty. A sampling: provide raises for employees and contractors at all levels of government until they are making an unspecified “living wage,” because we all know how public sector workers uniquely suffer from pay and pension inequality. Raise the minimum wage again and index it to inflation. Establish universal public dental care, prescrip-
tion drug and eye care programs, and daycare. (Dismiss targeted programs that already provide this.) Raise welfare rates and expand eligibility for employment insurance. Cut tuition and provide more student grants. Eliminate homelessness. My point is not to deny that there are many poor people in B.C. and Canada. There are. But at this point we don’t even have a reliable way of measuring the problem, let alone effective solutions. The report states: “Statistics Canada said the child poverty rate in Greater Vancouver was 18.4 per cent in 2010 …” No, Statistics Canada didn’t say that. They said what they always say, that “Low-Income CutOff,” or LICO figures, are not an accurate measure of poverty. The political response was equally predictable. Veteran NDP MP Libby Davies led the charge in Ottawa. The government must establish a national anti-poverty strategy with firm annual goals, she said, reciting the identical script of the B.C. NDP. Davies didn’t mention that Manitoba is among the provinces with such a plan. It’s the only province that finished below B.C. in the percentage of children living in low-income homes. These plans are mainly
gesture politics, providing the appearance of action. Social Development Minister Stephanie Cadieux spoke on behalf of the B.C. Liberal government, and she, too, stuck to a familiar script. The best path out of poverty is a job, she said. This is true, but also obvious. Then Cadieux went on about the “B.C. Jobs Plan,” which has its own sorry record of misrepresented federal statistics. Here’s one of the report’s more blindingly obvious section headings: “Child poverty concentrated in big cities.” No kidding. The whole population is concentrated in big cities. Herein lies a clue that is missed by “activists” for ever-larger government. Poor people are increasingly crowded into the most expensive places. If I’m on welfare or working in a low-wage job and receiving a provincial rent subsidy (one of those things LICO doesn’t measure), should I live in downtown Victoria or Vancouver? Shouldn’t I relocate to a smaller community where housing is cheaper? There are lots of complications to this, but some kind of incentive to relocate could help big and small communities.
Look for us online at : caledoniacourier.com
Editor: We celebrate National Addictions Awareness Week annually and this year’s event has been very successful. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who participated in National Addictions Awareness Week Campaign in November 19 -23, 2012. This year’s NAAW participants included: Nak’azdli Health Centre Staff, David ColterJohn, Nak’azdli Alternate Justice Centre Staff, Northern Health Mental Health and Addictions Staff, Nak’azdli Youth Centre Staff, Toni Dagenais, Sue Williams, Anna Waddell, and Cathy Wickes Thank You to Nak’azdli Youth Councils and Anita Prince for their help with Real Life Stages Play. Many thanks to the students and teachers of Nak’al bun Elementary School, David Hoy Elementary School, and Fort St. James Secondary school for their participation, creativity and their powerful messages in their T-shirts design. To our generous donors: Khas T’an Outdoor Adventure, Silver Springs Country Recreation and Wellness, Nak’azdli Health Centre and Nak’azdli Chief & Council. Last but not least, thank you to the community members of Nak’azdli and Fort St. James. Sincerely, Maria C. Riske/Nak’azdli Community Wellness
T-Shirts made during National Addictions Awareness Week were on display in Kwah Hall.
Ruth Lloyd/Caledonia Courier
E-mail us at : newsroom@caledoniacourier.com
Caledonia Courier Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Courier
NEWS
www.caledoniacourier.com A5
History for the dogs Ruth Lloyd Caledonia Courier Jeff Dinsdale of Quesnel visited Fort St. James to give a talk on the history of mushing in north-central B.C.. Dog mushing has been around in Canada for a long time, according to Dinsdale, with the Inuit in the north using sled dogs for over 4,000 years. The Carrier peoples of New Caledonia and beyond, however, he does not believe were using sled dogs prior to their introduction by the fur traders, who brought them from northern Alberta to help carry furs and
supplies across the north in the winter. "As far as British Columbia is concerned, this is where it all started," said Dinsdale. Over the years, sled dogs and their sleds evolved. Early sleds were fairly rudimentary, beginning with toboggans made out of two eight-inch boards. In the early years, the dog teams were small, usually as few as four dogs or less made a team. Mushers had to run, walk or snowshoe alongside or behind the sleds, with nowhere to stand on the back of the sleds, and steering control was
limited. Sled dogs were instrumental in the fur trade, in the Collins Overland Telegraph Line, and the railway line. Surveyors of both line systems used sled dogs for their work. The talk ended with a fantastic demonstration of the traditional clothing from the late days of the fur trade, with a coat made from a wool blanket, leggings, and traditional ties and wraps to keep the snow out and warmth in. Over 30 people attended Dinsdale's talk, put on by the Fort St. James Sled Dog Association. Entry was
by donation, with proceeds going towards the association's Cale-
donia Classic races set for February 22-24, 2013.
Thank You
The grad class of 2013 would like to thank the community of Fort St. James for making the 36th Annual Craft Fair a huge success. Thank you to all the businesses for their generous donations, the use of tables and the organization of the Craft Fair Committee. We would also like to congratulate the following people on winning the 2013 Grad Raffle: Family Christmas Tree - Cathy Playfair Ladies Bag - Kathy Marchal Mens Tub - Steph Plumridge Kids Basket - Aimee Dunkley Thank you again from the grad class of 2013.
Fort St. jameS DIStrICt PaGe Go to our Municipal web site at: www.fortstjames.ca Follow us on Twitter: @DFSJames
COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE
A schedule of Regular Council Meetings for the year 2013 is now posted at the public notice posting place at the District of Fort St. James municipal office, 477 Stuart Drive West. The schedule may also be viewed online at http://bit. ly/PZp47s. The notice will be posted until December 31, 2013.
GRANT FUNDING The Integris Credit Union Community Foundation has invested over $540,000 in the communities of Vanderhoof, Fort St. James and Fraser Lake since its inception in 2002. These funds are used to meet a wide range of charitable needs and interests. Funding requests from local organizations and agencies to undertake beneficial community projects are now being accepted.
To Apply: 1. Applications must be completed on prescribed forms 2. Applications must be submitted by 4pm on Dec. 14, 2012 Funding guidelines and applications are available at the Vanderhoof and Fort St. James branches of Integris Credit Union. Or you can visit our website at: https://www.integriscu.ca/Personal/InOurCommunity/ ApplyForFunding/IntegrisCommunityFoundation/
Applications will be reviewed by January 31, 2013.
Above: A willing volunteer was dressed up in some traditional festive wear by Jeff Dinsdale of Quesnel who delivered a talk on the history of sled dog mushing in north central B.C. Ruth Lloyd/Caledonia Courier
AUXILIARY TO STUART LAKE HOSPITAL... Monthly meeting 2nd Wednesday each month. Hospital Cafeteria 7:00 p.m.
NEWS
A6 www.caledoniacourier.com
Courier Spirit of the season
Ruth Lloyd Caledonia Courier
It was another fantastic Santa Claus Parade, Moonlight Madness event and Festival of Trees night in Fort St. James Nov. 30. The parking was full Friday afternoon, as traffic bustled about the downtown attending some of the afternoon events such as the Chilli Blankets at Integris, where free bowls of chilli and cups of hot chocolate were being given out. The spot was also a collection point for donations of warm winter clothing or blankets, the Rotary Christmas Food and Toy Drive and featured some Christmas karaoke. The weather was chilly, with a cold wind and snow for most of the day, but the snow stopped not long before the parade got going, and so spectators may have had a cold wind to contend with, but they at least did not have to worry about the snow blowing in their faces as they watched. There were just enough floats in the parade to give the crowd a great representation of some of the Christmas spirit of the community, but not so much everyone had to freeze to death to do it. Newlands once again had a shockingly impressive float, how they manage to put such a great float together year after year is an ongoing mystery. But they were all good, and there were some great classic cars and the fleet from the fire department to fill out the parade as well. Once the crowd had their pockets filled with candies from the parade, most of the spectators stopped in for a visit to the Festival of Trees, this year raising money for the Grade 8 trip to Haida Gwaii. The Northland tree with the snowy owl seemed to be a hot ticket item, but there were also some really unique tree and decoration ideas as well. TABA Enterprises had the winning bid for the Northland tree, with a final bid of $380. TABA had also donated a tree to the festival and purchased two from the event. The Overwaitea wreath made up of holiday cookie cutters was commented on a number of times, and so was the Ladies Auxilliary Fire department tree, made as an outdoor tree,
with garlands of peanuts, dried fruit and popcorn and other treats to attract the birds.
One I found particularly impressive was the wreath in a snowflake shape made out of musi-
cal sheets from Lakeshore Pharmacy, which also included some flowers made from the same paper
Wednesday, December 12, 2012 Caledonia Courier
sheets. The Festival of Trees raised $3,771 towards the Grade 8 trip.
Holiday y Gift Guide 2012 Save on holiday shopping
Who are you shopping for?
For Her
For Him
For Kids
Stockings
Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012 7-8 PM EST
#GiftGuideFL
SAVE TIME. SAVE MONEY.
Top left: Parade watchers get into the Christmas spirit with face paint. Above: Cookie decorating was offered at the Festival of Trees. Left: A young patron of the Festival enjoys a candy cane while looking at the trees. More photos online. Ruth
Lloyd Photos
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GATEWAY perspectives
Spill response plan Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been talking about the precautions, the safety measures, and the selection criteria involved in the marine elements of the Gateway project — all of them intended to prevent an oil spill on water. I’ve also mentioned, in recent weeks, how Gateway’s marine safety program was examined by an independent risk-assessment group, which determined that the chances of a major spill are once in more than 15,000 years. Although statistics and reports suggest a marine oil spill is unlikely, you want to know — what if one does occur? How will Gateway be prepared? While the chances are slim, we continue to develop a world-class marine response program. The Northern Gateway Project includes a spill response capacity that’s more than three times the Canadian regulation. And while the Canadian requirement for oil spill response is 72 hours plus travel time, our response time will be a fraction of that number — 6 to 12 hours in the marine channels. This is a significant increase to the response capability available to B.C.’s north coast. Additionally, for immediate response, our tug escorts will be
equipped with booms, oil skimmers, and firefighting equipment to provide enhanced initial containment, and they will be available to all marine traffic in the event of an incident. We will store equipment, such as containment and absorbent booms, skimmers, and waste storage, in multiple well-maintained, readily accessible response bases, providing a wider area of coverage in a shorter amount of time. Barges will also be located throughout the marine channels for additional storage and equipment mobilization. We are committed to having staff, contractors, and partners in place to maintain that enhanced state of readiness. The Gateway project will likely never see a major marine oil spill. But if it does, we’ll be prepared to protect our coastline.
Janet Holder Executive Vice President Western Access Enbridge Inc.
It’s more than a pipeline. It’s a path to a stronger economy. Join the conversation at
northerngateway.ca
©2012 Northern Gateway Pipelines Inc.
It’s more than a pipeline. It’s a path to delivering energy safely. ©2012 Northern Gateway Pipelines Inc. Join the conversation at northerngateway.ca ©2012 Northern Gateway Pipelines Inc.
Caledonia Courier Wednesday, December 12, 2012
www.caledoniacourier.com A7
Christmas by Kids 2012 A Big Thank You to the schools who are featured in our 2012 Christmas by Kids
Sowchea Elementary - Grades 3/4
INterested
Happy Holidays! We wish you a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year! Experience the CU Difference.
Happy Holidays “The Christmas season is the perfect opportunity to spend more time with your loved ones. My wife and I would like to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
John RUSTAD, MLA Nechako Lakes Vanderhoof Office 183 First Street Vanderhoof, BC Tel: 250-567-6820
Houston Office 2500 Butler Ave Houston, BC Tel: 250-845-7770
1-877-964-5650 www.johnrustadmla.bc.ca
A8 www.caledoniacourier.com
Wednesday, December 12, 2012 Caledonia Courier
Christmas by Kids 2012 A Big Thank You to the schools who are featured in our 2012 Christmas by Kids
Sowchea Elementary - Grades 4/5
Celebrate And enjoy all that
‘Tis the season...
is wonderful this Christmas. Best wishes for a Happy Healthy New Year to one and all!
For love and laughter far and near, and for sending warm greetings to all whom we hold so dear.
“Building Canada’s Premier Forest Company”
Sustainable Forestry Initiative Good for you, good for our forests!
Happy Holidays! School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes)
Caledonia Courier Wednesday, December 12, 2012
For files appearing in Fort St. James Provincial Court on November 27, 2012. Annie J. Anatole was found guilty of possession of property under $5,000
obtained by crime and sentenced to nine months probation and a nine month suspended sentence. Michael J. Aslin was given a 12-month probation
NEWS Court report
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Courier
order and one day in jail for forgery. Roy S. Isaac was sentenced to five days in jail and charged a $50 victim surcharge for failure to comply
with a probation order. For files appearing before the Fort St. James Provincial Court on December 4, 2012. Ashley Beauchamp was given a conditional release
with the payment of a $500 bond for assault causing bodily harm. Wayne N. Button was fined $250 for failure to comply with a condition of
undertaking. Catherine Joseph was fined $500 plus a victim surcharge of $75 for driving without due care and attention.
Eat, THINK, And Be Wary...
Don’t Drink & Drive
The launch of the 35th CounterAttack program The B.C. government, police and ICBC marked the 35th anniversary of the CounterAttack program with the launch of the December impaired driving campaign. In 1976, the year before CounterAttack roadchecks started, more than 300 people were killed in impaired related crashes every year in our province. While attitudes towards drinking and driving have changed considerably since then, an average of 113 lives are still lost each year and impaired driving remains the second leading cause of car crash fatalities in B.C.* “The CounterAttack program is a remarkable initiative that has helped save countless lives, but we still have work to do,” said Mary Polak, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “The reality is 31 per cent of fatal crashes that occur every
year in B.C. involve impaired driving. These are tragedies we can all help to prevent – when you celebrate this holiday season with your family and friends, make sure you plan ahead for a safe ride home.” “Recent, promising research shows most B.C. drivers are taking our impaired driving law seriously, and that it has helped to save more than 100 lives in the last two years,” said Shirley Bond, Minister of Justice and Attorney General. “But some drivers remain undeterred – so strategic enforcement efforts, including seasonal CounterAttack campaigns, remain critical to further our goals of reducing fatalities and creating safer roads and communities.” If your festivities involve alcohol, arrange for a designated driver or use other safe options to get home safely — call a sober friend. “We don’t want to see another family suffer the tragic loss of a loved one at the hand of an impaired driver. This is why our dedicated officers will be out in full force during the holidays conducting Coun-
terAttack roadchecks across the province,” said Chief Constable Jamie Graham, Victoria Police and Chair of the B.C. Association of Chiefs of Police Traffic Safety Committee. “If you choose to drive impaired, you will be caught and you will face severe consequences.” “We want everyone to enjoy the holidays with their family and friends, so make sure you plan ahead for a safe ride home,” said John Dickinson, ICBC’s director of road safety. “Share the responsibility of being the designated driver this holiday season. If it’s your turn, be true to your commitment – your friends and family are counting on it.” ICBC supports CounterAttack through an education campaign and enhanced police enforcement and also provides CounterAttack materials to businesses, sports facilities and community groups to help prevent impaired driving. For holiday season driving tips and more on the CounterAttack campaign, visit icbc.com. Regional statistics: On average, 32 people are killed each year in the Lower Mainland in impaired-related crashes. On average, 25 people are killed each year in North Central B.C. in impaired-related crashes. On average, 36 people are killed each year in the Southern Interior in impaired-related crashes. On average, 21 people are killed each year on Vancouver Island in impaired-related crashes. *Annual averages from 2007-2011 policereported data. Impaired-driving related data includes alcohol, illegal drugs and medicine.
SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 91 (Nechako Lakes)
A designated driver helps you party another day. Please don’t drink and drive this Holiday season
On behalf of the Board of Education, the Transportation Department encourages everyone to MAKE SAFE TRANSPORTATION CHOICES throughout the Holiday Season.
John Rustad MLA
Nechako Lakes Toll Free 1-877-964-5650
996-7171
NG KI NG IN IVI DR DR &
Fort St. James
from the
Nak’azdli Band
A10 www.caledoniacourier.com
Wednesday, December 12, 2012 Caledonia Courier
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ADVERTISE in the LARGEST OUTDOOR PUBLICATION IN BC The 2013-2015 BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis The most effective way to reach an incredible number of BC Sportsmen & women. Two year edition- terrific presence for your business.
Please call Annemarie 1.800.661.6335 email: fish@blackpress.ca
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Employment Trades, Technical NORTHERN ALBERTA clearing contractor seeks experienced Buncher and Skidder Operators for work in Northern Alberta. Subsistence and accommodations provided; email jobs@commandequipment.com Fax 780-488-3002.
Services
Health Products GET 50% off - Join Herbal Magic this week and get 50% Off. Lose weight quickly, safely and keep it off, proven results! Call Herbal Magic today! 1-800-854-5176.
Financial Services DROWNING IN debts? Helping Canadians 25 years. Lower payments by 30%, or cut debts 70% thru Settlements. Avoid bankruptcy! Free consultation. www.mydebtsolution.com or Toll Free 1-877-556-3500 GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: It’s That Simple. Your Credit / Age / Income is not an issue. 1.800.587.2161. INCOME TAX PROBLEMS? Have you been audited, reassessed or disallowed certain claims by Canada Revenue Agency? Call Bob Allen @ 250-542-0295 35yrs. Income Tax experience, 8.5yrs. with Revenue Canada. Email: r.gallen@shaw.ca M O N E Y P R OV I D E R . C O M . $500 Loan and +. No Credit Refused. Fast, Easy, 100% Secure. 1-877-776-1660.
Legal Services
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
General Manager Burns Lake Native Development Corporation is a First Nations owned and driven organization. With a strong working relationship with its Board of Directors the organization is committed to promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth development within its six member first nations. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ideal candidate for this half-time position (moving to full time pending resources) will demonstrate - financial management skills - good written and oral skills - strong management skills and project management experience - experience working with a board of directors - hands-on HR management skills - familiarity with lending principles - experience in community economic development - experience in a non- profit organization - must have experience in proposal writing, forestry, logging and value added operations - good understanding of dealing with first nation communities Responsibilities: - co-ordinating meetings of, and reporting to, Board and its committees - assisting Board formulate policies and programs - overseeing administration - planning, developing and monitoring budgets and performance targets - developing and maintaining HR policies; recruiting, training, supervising staff - leading economic development initiatives Applicants ideally will have several years management experience, post secondary education in a business related field, familiarity with log harvesting, small business lending and an ability to work with diverse client and partnership groups. Aboriginal ancestry is an asset.
CASUAL CUSTODIANS School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) is accepting applications from those interested in employment as a casual custodian in the Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, Fraser Lake and Burns Lake areas. To qualify for casual custodial work applicants must: ● provide proof of completion of Grade 12 (DogZood &ertiÀcate) ● successfully complete Custodial Training Course – provided by School District No. 91 ● hold a valid :+0,S certiÀcate (can be taken after successful completion of Custodial Training Course) ● be able to demonstrate proÀciency in (nglish verbally, and in writing, if requested Applicants who successfully complete the Custodial Training Course will be required to job shadow for a minimum of 8 hours. The 8 hours of job shadowing will be paid. Resumés must be accompanied by a completed application form which is available on the website at http://www.sd91.bc.ca or from the School District Administration 2fÀce in Vanderhoof or from any district school. Applications will be accepted until 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 20, 2012. Please forward your applications to: Human Resources School District No. 91(Nechako Lakes) Box 129 Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0 Fax: (250) 567-4639 (mail: cupejobs@sd91.bc.ca School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) would like to thank all applicants in advance for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Please submit resumes by January 7, 2013 to:
Chair Burns Lake Native Development Corp PO Box 1030, Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 Fax: (250) 692-7483 Email: agerow@telus.net
Employment Career Opportunities LEARN FROM home. Earn from home. Medical Transcriptionists are in demand. Lots of jobs! Enrol today for less than $95 a month. 1-800-466-1535 www.canscribe.com admissions@canscribe.com
Help Wanted An Alberta Construction Company is hiring Dozer and Excavator Operators. Preference will be given to operators that are experienced in oilfield road and lease construction. Lodging and meals provided. The work is in the vicinity of Edson, Alberta. Alcohol & Drug testing required. Call Contour Construction at 780-723-5051. Required for an Alberta Trucking Company. One Class 1 Driver. Must have a minimum of 5 years experience pulling low boys and driving off road. Candidate must be able to pass a drug test and be willing to relocate to Edson, Alberta. Fax resumes to: 780725-4430
Merchandise for Sale
Heavy Duty Machinery A- STEEL SHIPPING STORAGE CONTAINERS / Bridges / Equipment Wheel loaders JD 644E & 544A / 63’ & 90’ Stiff boom 5th wheel crane trucks/Excavators EX200-5 & 892D-LC / Small forklifts / F350 C/C “Cabs”20’40’45’53’ New/ Used/ Damaged /Containers Semi Trailers for Hiway & StorageCall 24 Hrs 1-866-528-7108 Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com
The eyes have it Fetch a Friend from the SPCA today!
Misc. for Sale HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/newspaper?
spca.bc.ca
Caledonia Courier Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Merchandise for Sale
Rentals
Misc. for Sale
Apt/Condo for Rent
AT LAST! An iron filter that works. IronEater! Fully patented Canada/U.S.A. Removes iron, hardness, smell, manganese. Since 1957. Visit our 29 innovative inventions online at: www.bigirondrilling.com Phone 1-800-BIG-IRON. BIG BUILDING sale... “�This is a clearance sale you don’t want to miss!�� 20x20 $3,985. 25x24 $4,595. 30x36 $6,859. 35x48 $11,200. 40x52 $13,100. 47x76 $18,265. One End wall included. Call Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422. www.pioneersteel.ca GREAT GIFT IDEA! ChillSpot is The COOLEST Dog Bed-A new and innovative, thermodynamically cooled dog bed, that enhances the cool tile surfaces our pets rely on during the warm weather months. Use promo code COOLGIFT For 10 % off! www.chillspot.biz
HILLCREST apts. Lg. 1 & 2bdrm suites. Clean and quiet. Adult orientated,Security system,Strict Management,no pets ph# 250-996-8151or 250-996-7854
Misc. Wanted Private Coin Collector Buying Collections, Accumulations, Olympic Gold & Silver Coins + Chad: 250-863-3082 in Town
Lakeview Apartments 752 Stuart Dr. W. Fort St. James. 2bdrm apt. Newly renovated. Quiet, clean building. Adult oriented. no pets R.R. Avail. now 250-996-4073 or 250-996-7598
Townhouses Stuart Lake Townhouses Newly renovated, family oriented, 3 bdrm, 2 bath with basement, 2 parking stalls, No dogs. Ref Req’d 250-996-4073 or 250-996-7598
Transportation
Off Road Vehicles ATV’S, UTV’s, Dirt Bikes & Golf Buggies. Kamloops Cartsplus. www.cartsplusbc.com 1-888-371-3946. kamloopscartsplus@shawbiz.ca
Real Estate Other Areas 20 ACRES FREE! Buy 40-Get 60 acres. $0-Down, $168/mo. Money Back Guarantee. NO CREDIT CHECKS. Beautiful Views. Roads/Surveyed. Neaer El Paso, Texas. Call 1800-843-7537. www.sunsetranches.com
Modular Homes
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Modular Homes
BC’S LARGEST ONE STOP SHOP FOR QUALITY MANUFACTURED & MODULAR HOMES
WE DO IT ALL FOR YOU! • Site Preparation • Delivery • Foundations & Pilings • Set-Up and More Contact us today! TOLL FREE 1-877-737-4278
1-250-962-1733
www.hartmodularhomes.ca 3157 Bellamy Place Prince George, BC
Legal Notices
Legal Notices
“A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN OUR REGION� 37, 3RD Avenue, PH: 250-692-3195 PO Box 820, TF: 800-320-3339 Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 FX: 250-692-3305 www.rdbn.bc.ca E-MAIL:inquiries@rdbn.bc.ca
CERTIFICATE OF ALTERNATIVE APPROVAL PROCESS RESULTS Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako Electoral Area “C� (Fort St. James Rural) Road Rescue Contribution Service Establishment Bylaw No. 1651, 2012 Pursuant to Section 801.3 of the Local Government Act and Section 86 of the Community Charter, the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako proceeded with the Alternative Approval Process for the establishment of “Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako Electoral Area “C� (Fort St. James Rural) Road Rescue Contribution Service Establishment. The deadline for submission of Elector Response forms was 4:30 p.m. on Friday, November 30, 2012. 10% of Electors within Electoral Area “F�
113
Number of Elector Response Forms received 26 as of 4:30 p.m. on Friday, November 30, 2012 The results conďŹ rm that elector approval through the Alternative Approval Process has been obtained. Given under my hand at Burns Lake, B.C. this 3rd day of December, 2012. Gail Chapman, Corporate OfďŹ cer
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NEWS
ty Build i n u er mm Pioneers
Courageous Battles
Athletes
Achieving
Human Interest
s
C
Brought to you by your MLA John Rustad
Wednesday, December 12, 2012 Caledonia Courier
Serving the community of Fort St. James
Featuring the spirit of the local people
Running for life Local runner and community health nurse helps get the community up and moving Ruth Lloyd Caledonia Courier
While the participants had to put in a lot of time and work to get there, they were realizing a very real reward. Renada Walstrom is more than a runner, she is an The year the group had nearly 100 participants, inspiration. Walstrom stood at the finish line and watched the runWalstrom started running when she was on materners come in. nity leave after the birth of her son, Devin Ketlo, five She said some were brought to tears, some were years ago. laughing, but they were all rewarded with a renewed She was looking for something to do, something to belief in themselves. keep her busy and get her out of the house. “It was just a crazy amazing thing to see and experiSo with the encouragement of her partner Donnie ence, and that’s why I do it,” she said. “To be able to Ketlo and her friend Allison Moise, she went out for a see that in other people is profound.” run - but it was not love at first steps. Walstrom has also used running to help her with her “It was so uncomfortable and painful,” she said. “I work, and not just as stress relief. remember it clearly, it was not a good feeling.” As a community health nurse, she said the statistics But she knew there had to be more to running than which show First Nations at such high risk for many the discomfort and pain she felt on her first day, and illnesses like diabetes, tuberculosis, and HIV are ala better way to learn the sport, so she went home and most overwhelming. looked up learn to run programs. “They’re all so preventable,” she said. “If we can She found a program she liked through Sportjust get people up and moving…” MedBC and started her journey to become a runner. From running, Walstrom can then introduce nutriFive years later, Walstrom ran her first marathon at tion counselling, and other prevention options for peothe BMO Marathon in Kelowna this past October. ple to help create healthier overall lifestyles, including Shortly after, she ran the Vancouver Historic half reintroducing some hunting and gathering skills to get marathon on Nov. 26, which took her around the sea people back to a simpler way of life before fast food wall, which she had not been all the way around beand video games. fore. She said it was a day of perfect weather and she And she is working on passing on these ideals to saw a seal. her own children. Her son Devin Ketlo, who is five So far, Walstrom has run a half marathon in Vicyears old and attends kindergarten at Nak’albun Eletoria, three half marathons in Vancouver and the full mentary School, ran in a one kilometre kids race when marathon in Kelowna. she went to Kelowna to do her marathon. “It kind of went from there and I just fell in love Devin said he had fun and would do it again. with it and it was just the feeling that you get when you “It was amazing for me to see and be there with complete a run or an event and you set those goals and him,” said Walstrom. “I know that he’s going to live an you complete those goals,” she said. “I liked the result, active lifestyle.” I liked how I felt.” “Just a little thing like that I think is a huge thing,” “The world is a cruel place and you know, if I go out Renada Walstrom (right) and her son Devin Ketlo show off their medals she said. Walstrom believes it opens up all kinds of for a run, I feel like I can totally take on anything after after a BMO running event in Kelowna, when Walstrom completed a possibilities for him to see different opportunities out that,” said Walstrom. “Worries can take up your world marathon and Devin did the 1 km kids run. there and he can feel like he can go anywhere. Photo courtesy of Renada Walstrom and you go for a run and … it doesn’t matter anymore.” Walstrom herself already has goals she is working But what makes Walstrom an inspiration is she did on for the years ahead. She wants to qualify for the Most of those people had never run before, some had not Boston Marathon in 2014. not keep what she had discovered through running to herself. even walked much. Instead, when Walstrom went back to work after her maTo get there, she needs to clock in at three hours and 45 “It’s just so easy to get caught up in being in your home,” minutes in a qualifying marathon, which she is planning on ternity leave was over after starting to run, she saw it was the time for the Sun Run training to begin, so she put it out to the she said. Even walking out the door can be intimidating for doing next year. people who have not been getting out much, but being out docommunity to see if anyone was interested in training for it. Group runs for learning to walk/run or learning to run faster In just the first year, she had 25 people come to Vancouver ing the training as a group she said helped some people over- will be taking place again beginning in January. come their fears. to participate in the Sun Run. Runs were starting at the Nak’azdli Health Centre Tuesday, “That was great to see,” she said. “You could see their spir- Thursday, Sunday at 4:30 p.m.. Keep an eye out for updated The following year there were around 60 people, and nearits lifting, you could see it in their eyes, you could see it in schedules in the new year. ly 100 the next year after that. their face.”
John Rustad, MLA Nechako Lakes
183 First Street Vanderhoof Tel: 250-567-6820 Fax: 250-567-6822
Toll Free: 1-877-964-5650 E-mail: john.rustad.mla@leg.bc.ca Website: www.johnrustadmla.bc.ca
2500 Butler Avenue Houston Tel: 250-845-7770 Fax: 250-845-7780