Houston Today, March 06, 2013 by Black Press Media Group

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RCMP search warrant course By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

PINK Shirts

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Staff at the Houston Health Centre showed their support for the fight against bullying by participating in Pink Shirt Day 2013. Pictured (l-r): Doreen Vanrhijn (Reception), Kathy Knight (ADP Activity Worker), Joanne Kilback (Radiology Technologist), Gwen Kirkby (Housekeeping), Sally Sullivan (Site Coordinator), Mike McAlonan (Physiotherapist), Cheryl Thornton (Physio Reception), Tim McCosker (Physiotherapist), Roberta Willson (Lab Technologist), Norma Delege (Reception).

A local RCMP course brought in 19 police officers from Prince George to Prince Rupert early last week. Houston RCMP Sgt. Rose put on the search warrant course in the Houston Fire Hall last week Monday and Tuesday, along with three other instructors from Burnaby, Kelowna and Prince George, he said. Sgt. Rose says the course was the basic of three RCMP search warrant courses and was targeted at teaching general duty officers how to write a search warrant. Officers and instructors travelled into Houston Sunday and stayed overnight Sunday and Monday, leaving after the course was completed Tuesday, said Sgt. Rose. On the last day of

“

Over 20 officers from Northern BC attended the seminar.

the course, officers wrote a search warrant based on given information, and if it met the legal requirements to be issued, they passed the course, said Sgt. Rose. Sgt. Rose says he organized the course in Houston because of the number of local officers who didn’t have the training, and three Houston members took the course. Sgt. Rose says now almost all the Houston officers have the search warrant training, and they will likely not hold more courses locally until after more officer turnover.

“Significant decline” in school district enrollment By Percy N. Hébert Black Press

Although the current school year is barely beyond the midpoint, school district 54 is projecting a 4.3 per cent decline in enrolment for the 2013/2014 school year. Steve Richards, secretary/treasurer with

SD54 school board, made the announcement during the Feb. 18 school board meeting. The projected enrolment for the 2013/2014 school year is 2,169.625 full-time equivalents (FTE), down about 95 FTE from the current school year.

The Ministry of Education requires the mid-year projections and uses them to determine funding for the following school year. The decline in enrolment is not expected to affect all grades equally. In fact, almost half of the drop in enrol-

ment, about 46 FTE, is projected to occur in the K– 3 grades, Richards said. “That’s a significant decline,” Richards said. Enrolment is also projected to decline in the later secondary grades. “But that is sort of an expected bubble

movement,” Richards said of a larger than normal cohort of students moving through the system. The extent of the decline in K– 3 enrolment is a first for SD54, Richards said. “It’s a significant decline, typically I would expect a 1.5 to 1.75 per cent decline,”

he said. The decline in enrolment in primary grades is not unique to SD54, it’s a province-wide phenomenon, SD54 board chairperson, Les Kearns said. In SD54, Kearns said much of the decline in K– 3 enrolment is the result

of parents deciding to send their children to private schools. The motivation behind the move isn’t clear, but Kearns speculated it could represent some degree of dissatisfaction among parents regarding labour issues.

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PUBLIC NOTICE In accordance with Section 26 of the Community Charter, notice is hereby given of Council’s intent to lease an upstairs room at the Houston Fire Hall located at 3382 - 11th Street, Houston, BC to the BC Ministry of Environment for a period of five years at an annual rate of $2100 for the continuous operation of a Tapered Oscillating Membrane Airborne Particulate Monitor (TOEM) / meteorological station.

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MEETING SCHEDULE 2013 March 7, 2013.............RDBN Committee Meetings March 21, 2013...........RDBN Board Meeting/SNRHD Meeting April 4, 2013................RDBN Committee Meetings April 18, 2013..............RDBN Board Meeting/SNRHD Meeting Meetings tentatively commence at 10:30 a.m. please call (250) 692-3195/1-800-320-3339 for further information

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By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

A male was arrested Feb. 23 after a two-day RCMP investigation into an armed assault Feb. 22. RCMP were called just before 6 p.m. Feb. 22 to a home in Houston, and learned that three individuals were allegedly assaulted with various weapons, said RCMP Sgt. Rose. Sgt. Rose says none of the victims needed medical attention or hospitalization, and the suspected male was arrested. RCMP then issued a search warrant at a home on Pearson Avenue, where they seized a number of offence related items,

Partners for the long term As discussion about Gateway has evolved and progressed with Aboriginal communities in B.C., one thing groups have told us, in unequivocal terms, is that they wanted meaningful, long-term involvement in the labour force. That’s why we established a $3 million Gateway Education and Training Fund. This is an initiative for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities that’s not dependent, in any way, upon Gateway approval. This fund supports training initiatives based in the pipeline, construction, and energy sectors. This isn’t training for the sake of training; it’s focused squarely on employment outcomes. And Enbridge is already connecting industry and community to help create career opportunities in B.C. We’ve already co-funded training programs for surveyors and ironworkers. We’re purchasing seats in existing trades programs, and partnering with provincial and federal bodies to help develop skilled tradespeople in the areas of heavy equipment operation, pipefitting, welding, and construction craft labouring. We’ve also co-ordinated the

first of many “workforce connections” workshops, bringing together representatives of Gateway equity First Nations and companies with labourforce needs for some meaningful employment discussion. We’ve heard, loud and clear, from Aboriginal communities in B.C. that they no longer want to be bypassed by economic opportunities created within, near, or around them. With the Gateway Education and Training Fund, we’re doing something about it. We’re showing true commitment to community and workforce development. And the opportunities we’re sponsoring are not exclusive to our proposed project or our industry — they’re regional and cross-sector in nature. We want to stay connected to the Aboriginal community because it makes good business sense. But our intentions go beyond basic business: It’s about partnership. It’s about responsibility. And, ultimately, it’s about respect.

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

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Assault suspect faces 13 charges

GATEWAY perspectives For decades, respect has been fundamental to Enbridge’s communication with Aboriginal groups across Canada. Among other considerations, that means developing sensitivity and an understanding of the values and issues important to them.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

said Sgt. Rose. The male is facing 13 charges for the offences, Sgt. Rose said. Sgt. Rose notes that the general public was not at risk at any point because the accused and the victims were well known to each other. *** RCMP are investigating a stabbing outside of a local bar just before 4 a.m. Feb. 23, said Sgt. Rose. Sgt. Rose says RCMP were called by ambulance to assist them as they treated the victim, who was stabbed after a loud disagreement. The victim had minor, non-life threatening injuries and could not name a suspect, and Sgt. Rose says RCMP continue their investigation. *** A semi-truck with a flat-deck trailer hit a small silver Buick at the intersection between Highway 16 and Tweedie Avenue last week Tuesday, said Sgt. Rose. Sgt. Rose says the semi made a left hand turn from the wrong

RCMP Training

Jackie Lieuwen/Houston Today

Prince Rupert RCMP Constables Virginia Bessette and Victoria Rose write up search warrants after a two-day training course in Houston last week Monday and Tuesday. lane and damaged the front passenger quarter panel. There was no injuries in the accident, but Sgt. Rose says the driver was issued a ticket for making a turn from the wrong lane. *** An intoxicated male was arrested beside Highway 16 just outside of 7-11 at 5 p.m. Feb. 22, said Sgt. Rose. Sgt. Rose says the male was so intoxicated that he

could no longer take care of himself, so he was arrested, lodged in cells until sober and then released and charged for being drunk in a public place. *** RCMP stopped a drug-impaired driver on Nadina Avenue near 3rd Street at 2:30 p.m. Feb. 24, said Sgt. Rose. Sgt. Rose says RCMP demanded a sobriety test which the driver failed, so they issued a 24 hour

driving prohibition. *** RCMP found a 2005 Pontiac Montana minivan in the ditch near Barrett Station Road last week Tuesday, said Sgt. Rose. Sgt. Rose says one of the two people in the van was taken to the hospital, but neither was seriously injured. The driver is expected to face charges for failing to keep right, Sgt. Rose said.

School district projects 4.3% enrollment decline DROP from Page 1 “Parents are probably a little leery that some of those problems may continue this year,” Kearns said. Karin Bachman, president of the Bulkley Valley Teachers Union, disagreed. “Families move their children to private schools for a variety of reasons,” Bachman said. “The school district may wish to look further into reasons for decline in K– 3 enrolment.” Over the last seven years, students in SD54 have lost just three days of instruction due to labour disruptions. Those three days occurred last March, Bachman said, when the government intervened in the bargaining process. Despite the

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disruptions, SD54 teachers made every effort to ensure student learning was a top priority, Bachman said. “Primary teachers

“

enrolment is a major factor in my world and how to make things work” Richards said. “You need to pay attention to business basics.

fuel prices, equipment, as well as increases in contributions to pension funds and salaries. In the end, Richards said he

“Much of the decline in K-3 enrollment is the result of parents deciding to send children to private schools.”

in all Bulkley Valley public schools are working hard and doing their best to prove quality instruction for all students,” she said. The decline in enrolment can also place the school district in a financial bind, given funding is in part based on enrolment. “Decreasing

- School board chair Les Kearns “You need to make sure your staffing, which is 90 per cent of your budget, is spot on.” A recent report from the Association of School Board Officials documented several factors applying pressure to school board ledgers, such as increases in

didn’t expect the projected decrease in enrolment to impact operations, as long as the school district could find efficiencies in staffing and other areas of operation. “I don’t anticipate it will be a problem,” Richards said about the potential decrease in enrolment.

Houston Today

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

COMMUNITY

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“Music through the Ages”

Jackie Lieuwen/Houston Today

Co-coaches Adam Ells and Kelsey McEwen oversee senior skaters as they practice one of their group numbers for the upcoming Figure Skating Winter Carnival, “Music through the Ages,” which will be held at the Houston arena this Friday and Saturday.

Carnival excitement By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

Skaters are scraping up the ice daily as they practice for the annual Figure Skating Winter Carnival this Friday and Saturday. Co-figure skating coaches Adam Ells and Kelsey McEwen said they are excited. “I’m feeling good, the kids have been working hard and they’re ready,” said Ells. Ells says the Carnival will feature solos by senior skaters as well as group numbers by the senior and junior skaters, mostly choreographed by McEwen. There will be two shows for the “Music through the Ages” carnival, one on Friday at 7 p.m. and the other Saturday at 2 p.m.

Houston Figure Skating Club presents

CArnivAl 2013

Music through the

Ages

Friday, March 8th at 7:00 pm &

Saturday, March 9th at 2:00 pm

Adults: $7 Children 4-17 & Seniors: $5 under 3 are free Family of up to 5: $20

Come out and watch our fabulous skaters!!

Opinion

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HOUSTON TODAY “Member, B.C. Press Council” Published by Black Press Upstairs Houston Mall P.O. Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

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In our opinion:

Pat Bell and the forest industry

henever the northwest political history of the last decade is written, provincial Liberal cabinet minister Pat Bell, who announced last week he won’t be running again in May because of a heart condition, will go down as the best friend the region never knew it had. And that stems from Mr. Bell’s so-far unrealized plan, when he became forests minister in 2009, of stimulating the northwest forest industry by pooling wood supplies in order to attract customers. It was an ambitious plan, some claim perhaps too ambitious. At its heart, the plan would have resulted in a supermarket of wood supplies, a one-stop shopping centre of all types of wood gathered in central places to make it more easily available to large and small value-added industries of various kinds. Mr. Bell took a non-partisan approach to the project. Until he became a cabinet minister Mr. Bell never had cause to even visit here. Since then, it’s a safe bet to say Mr. Bell has probably visited here more times than any other provincial cabinet minister since the Liberals were first elected in 2001. More cynical political observers will point out there’s every reason to believe the provincial Liberals will be defeated this May, meaning Mr. Bell’s days of being a cabinet minister would end regardless. But he was probably the only one sitting around the cabinet table who could find northwestern B.C. on a map. - Terrace Standard

Have an Opinion? Write to the Editor!

Letters should be brief and to the point, with a maximum of 300 words. We reserve the right to withhold from print any letters which may be libelous, racist or sexist, and may edit for brevity and clarity. Letters MUST include the signature of the letter writer, a mailing address and a phone number. Only the name will be reproduced in the newspaper. Send letters to: Houston Today, Box 899, Houston, BC, V0J 1Z0. Fax to 250-845-7893 or email to newsroom@houston-today.com

Naming that toddler My nine-year-old daughter came home last week and said we needed to buy a baby gift for a teacher at her school. “His name is Ikea,” Daisy said excitedly. “Whose name is Ikea?” I asked, not knowing if she was referring to the teacher or the infant. “Mr. Verstraete’s baby,” she said. “He’s a boy!” “Ikea?” I asked. “Are you sure his name’s Ikea?” “Yes, of course,” she responded, as though I was nuts for asking. But I guess anything goes nowadays when it comes to names. I shouldn’t have been surprised about a child sharing the same moniker as a Swedish store, particularly after reading in the news that someone named their baby Hashtag, inspired by a commonly-used social media symbol. And who am I to judge? Once upon a

time I was considered weird for the name I had chosen for my firstborn. “Buster is a dog’s name,” I was scolded countless times during my pregnancy when I made the mistake of sharing the name I’d picked out. So what, I thought. It was also the name of a famous actor and an even more famous shoe. I absolutely loved the name Buster. It was fun and strong and it had character. I wasn’t about to let the opinions of others change my mind. Except there was one opinion that kind of mattered: that of Buster’s dear old dad. “Let’s think of a few other options and pick one once he’s born,” Paul reasoned. Fine, I thought. He’ll fall in love with the name by then for sure. But when our beautiful baby boy arrived with his spiky, blonde hair he didn’t look like a Buster to either of us. He looked like a

Sam, so that’s what we called him. “Buster would have been fine,” my friend, who’s a teacher, said about my original choice. “It’s all the purposely misspelled and hard-to-pronounce names that drive me crazy.” Like Quvenzhane? My daughter and I recently saw the movie Beasts of the Southern Wild with Quvenzhane Wallis, the youngest Oscar-nominated actor in history, and we immediately nicknamed her Q. It just seemed easier. If anyone’s to blame for names getting stranger and more unique as the years go by, let’s blame the celebrities. I mean, really - who was naming their kids anything all that bizarre before Frank Zappa introduced his children Dweezil, Moon Unit, Ahmet and Diva Thin Muffin to the world? At the time, people were horrified. Since then, many celebrities

2009

have followed suit and it’s become the norm in Hollywood. Names like Alcamy, Apple, Banjo, Bingham, Blue Angel, Blue Ivy, Destry, Exton, Fifi Trixibelle, Jermajesty, Kal-El, Kyd, Maddox, Memphis Eve, Moses, Ocean, Pilot Inspektor, Rocket, Rumer, Seargeoh and the list goes on. Heck, actor Rob Morrow named his child Tu. How would you like to have the name Tu Morrow? With websites out there dedicated to listing all the strange names that babies are getting saddled with these days, it’s easy to see that this trend is growing. Am I complaining? Nah. Why not get creative and unique when naming our offspring? This certainly can’t be worse than giving them a name that they share with three other kids in the class. Naming our children is a big responsi-

On a brighter note Lori Welbourne bility, and everyone’s not going to like what we choose. But as long as we’re picking names we truly love and not just making up stuff so we can laugh at how hilarious we are, we should be okay. If the kid ends up hating their name, which some do, “normal” or not, they can always legally change it to something else later. Ikea might do that. Except, his name’s not actually Ikea. Turns out it’s Atticus. I guess I’ll be returning my gift of an Ikea train set and getting him a copy of “To Kill a Mockingbird” instead.

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What excuses have you heard from people why they shouldn’t get a speeding ticket?

By Jackie Lieuwen

Letters to the

Editor

Cst. Patrick Kennedy Prince George

Name unavailable Burns Lake

“‘I thought it was 70, that’s why I was going 80.’ ‘In a school zone, where the speed limit was 30 km/hr, one person asked me, ‘Oh, how fast was I going?’ I said, ‘47,’ and he said ‘that’s it?’”

“‘I pay your salary.’ ‘Don’t you have something better to do? Go arrest a drug dealer.’ One guy I worked with had a lady throw holy water on him because she thought he was the devil.”

Cpl. Bill Parmar Kelowna “‘My speedometer is broken.’ ‘My kids were yelling so I was just trying to get home.’ ‘I just got new tires put on, it must affect my speed.’ ‘I just bought this car, I was just seeing how fast it goes.’”

“‘I’m going to Starbucks.’ ‘I didn’t realize how fast I was going.’”

Letters are welcomed up to a maximum of 250 words. Letters are subject to editing for clarity, brevity and legality. All letters must include the writer’s name, daytime telephone number and hometown for verification purposes. Anonymous, or pen names will not be permitted. Not all submissions will be published. Letters may be e-mailed to: editor@houstontoday.com, faxed to: 250-847-2995 or mailed to: P.O. Box 899, Houston B.C., V0J 1Z0.

Fish experts are needed Editor: The headline in the Feb. 6, 2013 issue of The Terrace Standard read “Politicians oppose fish ban plan.” Headlines like this

Cst. Mark Urbanowski Prince Rupert

also appeared in east coast newspapers when biologists were arguing for fish closures in the Atlantic Ocean. The warnings were not heeded, over fishing continued

and the world’s greatest cod fishery collapsed. Over 20 years later it still hasn’t recovered. Fish biology is very complex. When scientists, some of whom have spent

their whole lives studying fish, make suggestions we should listen. Unfortunately our local politicians didn’t bother to hear the arguments from fish biologists

before writing a letter opposing the proposed stream trout and char no kill regulation. The members of our town council and regional district work to the best of their ability doing a community service and should be applauded for that. However it should be expected that

when difficult issues are presented to them experts need to be consulted so that the best decisions can be made. Our area is facing some major changes in the near future and it is important that the right choices are made for all of us. Doug Webb Terrace, B.C.

Pension plan to serve small business The B.C. government is moving ahead with a new pension option for the two thirds of B.C. workers who don’t have access to a group pension plan through their employer. F i n a n c e Minister Mike de Jong introduced legislation this week to create Pooled Registered Pension Plans (PRPP), making B.C. the first province to sign on to a new federal program. The system would allow businesses or self-employed people to set up defined contribution pension plans

administered by financial institutions. De Jong announced the program along with Ted Menzies, federal minister of state for finance, who hopes to have harmonized systems across the country so people can continue to build retirement income if they move. Menzies said the PRPP system offers greater simplicity for small businesses that don’t have employee pension plans. The new approach is designed to close a gap in tax-deductible R e g i s t e r e d Retirement Savings Plan room that

Canadian workers are choosing not to use despite the tax advantages. Once an employer signs up, employees would be automatically

“

expertise, and employees would have to “overcome the inertia of being involved in the plan” to get out of it, Menzies said. De Jong said

B.C. director of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, said small business accounts for almost half of the private sector

“Small businesses account for almost half of the private sector employment in B.C.”

enrolled. They have 60 days to opt out, after which time pension contributions would be deducted. Employers don’t need any financial

B.C. decided to make employer contributions optional, after c o n s u l t i n g with business organizations. Mike Klassen,

employment in B.C., the largest share of any province. “Working forever is not an option,” Klassen said. Menzies said expanding the

Canada Pension Plan would require two thirds support from all provinces, and that support was not offered at a recent meeting of provincial finance ministers. But there was unanimous support for the PRPP option. Wilf Scheuer, president of Courtney-based Pro Star Mechanical Te c h n o l og i e s Ltd., said he plans to use the new pension option and match employee contributions in order to retain skilled workers. Pro Star retrofits buildings with geothermal heat

B.C. Views Tom Fletcher

pumps, tankless hot water systems and other specialized equipment. Scheuer said he recently lost an engineer, hired away by a large Los Angeles-based company, a sign that his and other small firms are in a global competition for top talent.

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

COMMUNITY

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Adaptive snow sports about inclusion By Ryan Jensen Black Press

Northern Adaptive Snow Sports (NASS) intends to leave no one behind. On March 8, NASS partners with the Disabled Skiers Association of BC to offer a three-day Level 1 Certification Course for Instructors. The group, formed in 2007, has specialized equipment available at Hudson Bay Mountain but there’s a shortage of instructors trained to teach the proper use of adaptive ski equipment. “The idea of this program is so that no one is left behind and they don’t miss out on that opportunity,” Brian Huntington, one of the community members responsible for the forming of NASS, said. “Now that we have the equipment here, the next challenge is to have enough instructors who are confident and skilled to use the equipment and able to offer support to be able to help others get up on the hill.” NASS volunteer Glenys SnowDymond said having the equipment available is only a small part of what is needed to make the program a success. “One of the most important ways for a ski program to happen

The Investment Expert Life Insurance – Protection For Your Family You work hard to look after your family, but what if you are no longer here to do so? Nothing is worse than losing a loved one and it is probably the worst thing a person will ever experience and no amount of money can replace you. However if you have life insurance you will still be able to look after your family so they will be able to live the life you would want for them. It can cover everyday living expenses, send your kids to school, pay off your mortgage, and much more. Since the younger you are the less it costs, consider getting life insurance sooner than later. Depending on the policy you choose it may only cost dollars per day and premiums do not increase during the term you choose. As to how much you need it really depends on your personal circumstances. Purchasing life insurance can be an emotional issue so a qualified Life Insurance Advisor can help decide how much is right for you and your family. “Quality financial advice in your home or my office.” Cathy Stanton, PFP, Investment Funds Advisor Manulife Securities Investment Services Inc. Phone: 250-847-4686 1-855-308-4686 3724 1st Ave, Smithers, BC V0J 2N0 cathy.stanton@manulifesecurities.ca

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Northern Adaptive Snow Sports volunteer Brian Huntington prepares Emily Anderson for a run down Hudson Bay Mountain on the sit-ski. and continue beyond the initial course training sessions is to establish and develop a strong nucleus of individuals in the community who will be able to assist the disabled skiers coming to the hill,” she said. Pam Craig’s daughter, 10-year-old Emily, is one of the benefactors of the NASS program. Emily is in Grade 5 at Twain Sullivan Elementary School in Houston. Last year, her class began travelling to Hudson Bay Mountain for ski days. Cindy Pottinger, a support teacher at the school, connected with Huntington who brought Emily up onto

the ski hill using the sit-ski. Without the assistance of the NASS program, and especially Brian Huntington, Emily wouldn’t have enjoyed the thrill of racing down the mountain, the wind in her face, Craig said, her voice cracking with emotion. “It opens a world up that would never be accessible to her,” Craig said. “She’s such a speed demon and she’s such a little daredevil to begin with, so we knew she’d love it. “Brian was a little cautious with her at first and we said, ‘No, just go!’” Although nonverbal, she was clearly

enjoying herself, Craig said. “She absolutely loves it,” she said. “The squeals, the laughing, the arm pumps and pointing to the chair.” Using the sit-ski also helped unlock a passion for the sport in Terrace’s Caleb Brousseau. He was the first person to use the NASS program’s sit ski. Now, he’s a member of Alpine Canada’s Para Alpine Team. In 2011-2012, his first season on the World Cup circuit, Brousseau skied to a pair of Top-10 finishes. “The sitskier is regarded as one of the team’s stars of the future,” the Alpine

Canada website states about Brousseau. The NASS program is one Huntington feels a personal connection with. After his brother passed away at the age of 16 from leukemia, his family started a foundation in his honour with the purpose of providing a winter ski experience for terminally ill children. This program is a natural extension of that work. “That’s my goal, that this energy, smile and spirit be attainable for everybody,” he said. “They need inspiration and energy just like the rest of us.” The cost for the course is $50. There is both classroom instruction and on-snow training. All candidates for the course must be a member of the Disabled Skiing Association of B.C., and have either a Level 1 ski or snowboarder’s certification. To register for the course or for more information, call Lisa Wilkie at Hudson Bay Mountain at 250-8472058 or email lwilkie@ hudsonbaymountain. com. Anyone who would like to utilize the equipment is asked to call Hudson Bay Mountain at 250847-2058 or Brian Huntington at 250842-2332 to make arrangements ahead of time.

“Kindness is what they are about” By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

Anti-bullying day spun into a beautiful, special day for local 10-year-old Emily Anderson, who received a special gift from a friend last Wednesday. Tw e l v e - y e a r - o l d Keenan Potvin spent last week Tuesday night reading a book, learning how to make a stuffed doll, and cutting and sewing the doll together to give to his friend Emily, who is non-verbal and has cerebral palsy, said Emily’s mom Pam

Craig. On Wednesday morning, Craig says she and Emily came to the school and met Keenan at the door, standing there with a big smile and a doll in his hand. “It was just the sweetest thing ever,” said Craig. “It’s incredible to see such pureness of heart - it’s truly a gift to see that,” she said. Keenan’s mom Dawn Potvin says she has no idea where the idea came from. “Him and Emily have always had a pretty special friend-

ship all through elementary school and he just came home from school… and he was on a mission and he was making her a doll,” said Potvin. Potvin says she is proud of the boy Keenan is, adding that he made the doll entirely of his own hand: he sewed it, filled it with peas, drew on it and decorated it. Asked why he made the doll for Emily, Keenan says it’s because they are good friends. “She’s been a good friend to me so I wanted to give her a gift,”

he said. Craig says the gift meant a great deal to Emily, and it was really cool to see. It’s cool that for these two children on anti-bullying day, bullying is just not part of their world, kindness is what they are about, said Craig. “There are so many instances of bullying in the school, and it starts at such a young age, and here is two kids who are just oblivious to it,” she said, adding that to her knowledge Emily hasn’t experienced any bullying at school.

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

COMMUNITY

Houston Today

Police OFFICER Visits Kindergarten

RCMP Sgt. Rose visited the Twain Sullivan Elementary School last Friday, to talk to the younger students about 911. Top: Sgt. Rose runs a Q and A with the Kindergarten students to answer any questions they had about using the 911 system. Bottom: Grade one student Isabelle tries on the police hat, which Sgt. Rose brought with him when he visited the class. Photos by Jackie Lieuwen/Houston Today

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

SPORTS

Houston Today

SPORTS

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Morice Mountain Nordic Ski Club celebrates their 25th anniversary Celebrating 25 years of history

By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

Houston’s cross country ski club looks back over their 25 year history of serving the community. Frank McDonald, 1988 President of the Morice Mountain

Nordic Ski Club, says a lot has changed in the last 25 years cabins have moved, membership has grown and grooming has really simplified. The ski club, incorporated in 1987, was an idea born by Sam Wright, who

applied for the first government grants and gave the initial push to get the club started, said McDonald. McDonald became president in 1988, and 1988 to 1989 were the two main construction years, where they build most of the cabins,

Photo submitted

Sue West and Jocelyn Bell blaze a trail through the snow to the Alpine cabin.

including the Alpine Cabin, he said. Back then they had 40 kilometres of trail, made but since then they’ve downsized to 25 kilometres, said McDonald. “We overachieved,” he said. “We found it wasn’t practical to maintain that much trail with our membership and the cost of fuel.” It was even more difficult because they used to make and maintain trails with a twin track snowmobile, and McDonald says it was slow backbreaking work and almost impossible to keep up. They had to go around and around to make a wide enough trail, and they pulled a tracker with a weighted-down grooved plate to make the ski tracks, said McDonald. He says they bought a ten-foot-wide LMC no-cat in 1990 and pulled the drag around with that, and in 2004 they bought the Bombardier 400, which they still use now to groom the trails. For several years around 1990, they did a lot of fund raising, including social nights and ski-a-thons where people donated and made pledges to the ski club so that they could put up lamp posts and light some

trails, McDonald said. He says they also asked different businesses for donations, and when they put up the lamp posts in 1992, they put signs on the posts to recognize those who made sizeable donations. McDonald says Community Forests caused the ski club problems in the early years when it first started up, developing around the ski club because they were the only club in Houston who thought the community forest was a good idea. The idea of community forest was that certain amounts of areas would be harvested and money would go to support community groups, but McDonald says it never was a true community forest because it was only used by ski club, and a little bit by the curling club at the beginning. They took credit for things the ski club did and people thought the ski club was being built and funded by Community Forests, when really they weren’t, McDonald said. He added that people often didn’t recognize that the ski club had tenure in the Morice Mountain area, because of all the signs that said

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“Community Forest.” McDonald says that they’ve had lots of problems over the years with motorized vehicles in the nonmotorized ski club tenure. “It was an ongoing problem right from the beginning,”

Vision moves the ski club forward

fielded up to 20 racers from atom to masters, including Ryan and Wallace Jenks, Ian McDonald and Tristan Sjoden, said McDonald. They also hosted races and marathons with teams from s u r r o u n d i n g

By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

Ski club Vice President Kelly Favron says his club vision is for a multiseason, affordable, family recreation site to keep people healthy and active.

Groomer Frank McDonald grooms the trails with the Bombardier 400. McDonald said. He says they have had snowmobilers making a mess of trails and young people taking pickups on the trails in the summer when trails are muddy and really damaging the trails. “The damage to trails is pretty much permanent,” McDonald said, adding that they even ripped down cable barriers he put across trails one year. McDonald says they finally addressed the problem by talking to tow truck drivers and telling them to call the police instead of towing out the mud boggers. They did some interventions with people caught, where they went before a public court of community members and RCMP, and did community service at the trails as a penalty, McDonald said. Over the years, the ski club has hosted many social events and ski-a thons, and run a racing team and jackrabbits. The racing team, 1987 to late 1990s,

communities, he said. He says they didn’t have enough coaches to keep training children above age 14, so several kids started going to Smithers for training. “That was the beginning of the end,” said McDonald, adding that the racing team tapered off after that. Jackrabbits is another story. M c D o n a l d says jackrabbits, a children’s ski program, was running before the ski club formed, practicing on the old three-part golf course and the Twain Sullivan field. Last year Jackrabbits didn’t run because they didn’t have coaches but ski club President Kelly Favron says this year jackrabbits had 33 children, and he thinks it could double next year. McDonald says looking back over the last 25 years he sees a dynamic group of people who have persevered over the years to build a facility with trails unrivalled across the north.

Photo submitted

With 220 members and more improvements all the time, the Morice Mountain Nordic Ski Club is steadily sliding toward that end. “When I joined the club five years ago we only had 82 members,” said Favron, adding that he’d like to have a steady 300 person membership in the future. Favron says he wants to have a lot going on at the club, with skiers bumping into snowshoers and seeing ice fishers on the lake and with a racing team running again. He’d like to be a thriving club with lots of events, such as moonlit skis, and have other community groups such as summer camps, girl guides and cadets use the ski club cabins for social events and training. 1988 ski club President Frank McDonald says they used to have travelling musicians do coffeehouses and such at the club

cabins. Favron plans to rebuild a warming hut on Beaverpelt Lake and to fix up the main day lodge with a new roof, insulation and siding and add heaters, ski racks and a kids corner, he said. They plan to put new windows in the Alpine Cabin and maybe a mosquitonetting porch for summer use, he said. Favron says they want to build a connecting four kilometre trail between the Alpine Cabin and the Houston Hikers’ Story Lookout Cabin, and build more trails around the Alpine Cabin for skiers in winter and hikers in summer. “The Alpine Cabin is right on the doorstep of all kinds of backcountry opportunities that haven’t been explored yet,” said Favron. The ski club built five kilometres of snowshoe trails this year, which could be used in summers by hikers and runners, said Favron, adding that they want to add more snowshoe and hiking trails as well. Favron says the trails are great places to see wildlife, including snowy owls, snowshoe hares, grouse, and if you’re lucky, lynx. Lynx have been around as long as the ski trails, said McDonald. “We’ve been seeing the lynx for forever spring, summertime

and wintertime - but because there is more people there now, the sightings are more common,” McDonald said. Favron adds that this year there is a mother and two fullsized kittens so there have been numerous sightings. One man skied up behind the mother lynx laying right on the ski trail, and he talked real slowly, saying ‘Hello kitty,’ and watched the big cat slowly, lazily look around and look at him, Favron said. He says lynx are animals of habit and these lynx, not fed or pet by people, seem very comfortable around skiers. The ski club is focusing more and more on being a family recreation site and Favron says one step this year is adding signs to tell people about the adventure park built last year. “It’s kind of a corn maze but in the timber,” said Favron, adding that it is surrounded by groomed ski trail so children won’t get lost, and it will be good for both summer and winter use. Favron says people can come in and out of the trails in all different places, and they will put up chimes and noise makers, as well as cutouts of animals or cartoon characters. They also have a groomed open area

Photo submitted

A mother lynx and two kittens have been sighted on the ski trails numerous times by skiers. with hills for kids to ski around or sled on with crazy carpets. Favron says he wants to build a children’s play area in the main cabin and get a swing set outside for parents with younger kids to use while others in the family are out skiing. “That’s how we’re wrapping it in on the central area around the cabin. It’s really big for families and young kids and has all the amenities there to keep the kids interested,” Favron said. Favron says this year they are running a ski donation program, asking companies

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to donate money for ski equipment to add to the ski library - a collection of skis, boots and poles for free member use or low rental rates, and used for children in jackrabbits. “We’ve served the community for the last 25 years, so we want to do more and hopefully with

getting all these skis in, we’ll be able to offer more and have kind of a rebirth of the skill development program,” said Favron. Favron says they are eager for more volunteers and coaches and are looking for someone to be the skill-development

c o o rd i n at o r, entertainment coordinator/event planner. Anyone interested can contact Kelly at 250-845-0097 and for more information see http://www. xcskimoricemtn. com/ or the Morice Mountain Nordic Ski Club page on Facebook.

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

SPORTS

Houston Today

SPORTS

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Morice Mountain Nordic Ski Club celebrates their 25th anniversary Celebrating 25 years of history

By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

Houston’s cross country ski club looks back over their 25 year history of serving the community. Frank McDonald, 1988 President of the Morice Mountain

Photo submitted

Sue West and Jocelyn Bell blaze a trail through the snow to the Alpine cabin.

Spring & Summer Hours Starting April 1st until September 30th

Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. To help us serve you better.

Smithers Lumber Yard Ltd.

3528 Yellowhead Hwy 16, Smithers, B.C. 250-847-2246 Toll Free 1-877-847-2230

Vision moves the ski club forward

By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

Ski club Vice President Kelly Favron says his club vision is for a multiseason, affordable, family recreation site to keep people healthy and active.

Photo submitted

WE’VE MOVED... to

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www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

COMMUNITY

Houston Today

RCMP Sgt. Rose gives Twain Sullivan Kindergarten student Kenny a chance to talk on the RCMP vehicle loudspeaker.

Maryn, 7, and her Mom Cindy gathered with other family and friends in the Twain Sullivan foyer for a salmon dinner.

Mason, grade 4 Twain Sullivan student, garnishes his plate with parsley before serving it.

Mom Grade 4 student Jaxson serves his er. dinn on salm of e plat Melissa a

Activities at Twain Sullivan Elementary School... Jackie Lieuwen photos/ Houston Today

Grade 4 students Faith an d Hailey serve lemon wa ter to family and friends at their salmon din ner fund raiser last Frida y.

porting family and friends ed and served a salmon dinner to sup Twain Sullivan grade four class cook , and used the event to the dinner as part of First Nations unit last Friday night. The students made Haida Gwaii. raise money for their year end trip to

Houston Today

SPorts

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

www.houston-today.com

Pleasant Valley Plaza hosts Special Olympic bowling

Special Olympic bowlers from Houston, Burns Lake and Smithers gather weekly to enjoy the bowling program. By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

Twenty-two athletes from Houston, Burns Lake and Smithers meet every week in Houston for Special Olympic Bowling. Started up in Houston this year, the program runs September to March every Tuesday morning, and includes three bowlers from

Houston, one from Smithers and 18 from Burns Lake - 10 seniors and eight high school students from the special education class, said Coach Jeannie Cramer. “It’s very exciting,” said Cramer, adding that the group is bigger than she expected because of the high school students. Asked how she likes the bowling program, Houston bowl-

er Carla Johnson says it’s awesome. “It’s nice to meet others there,” she said, adding that the ramp she uses at the Pleasant Valley Plaza is really nice. Pleasant Valley Plaza got a bowling ramp in September 2012 because they knew Carla needed one and a few people had asked about it, said Manager Bea Paquin.

She says several people are using it from the Special Olympic group and are getting quite good at it. The Houston bowling program was started by the Burns Lake Special Olympic Committee, who used to bowl in Burns Lake until the bowling alley shut down, said Cramer. Cramer has been with Special Olympics

since 1996, is the head bowling coach in Smithers, and she now coaches in Houston every Tuesday. Cramer says there are all different kinds of bowlers, even in generic bowling, and as a coach her role is to find out what works for each bowler and help them improve on that. “You have to figure out what they are comfortable with at

Photo submitted

first, and then you say, ‘Okay, so I need you just to slow down a bit and stretch it out this way,’” said Cramer. Cramer says she sets a different goal for the bowlers each week, based on what they can do as individuals. They have a goal to beat their average, or beat their high game, or get a strike or a spare, said Cramer, adding that this way, when they get a strike

or spare, or meet their goal, it’s even more enhanced that they did it. H o u s t o n Community Support Worker Stephanie Lieuwen says they were all pretty happy when the bowling started up in Houston. “They love the bowling and the atmosphere of having that many people around,” she said. “It’s just wonderful.”

Are you on the voters list? Elections BC is conducting an enumeration and updating the voters list for the May 2013 Provincial General Election. Are you registered to vote? It’s easy. It’s convenient. You have choices. Be ready. Your choices to register to vote or update your voter information are: Online Register or update your information on Elections BC’s Online Voter Registration (OVR) system 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at elections.bc.ca/ovr. You need a B.C. Driver’s Licence or a Social Insurance Number to use the system. (OVR) By Phone Call Elections BC toll-free at 1-800-661-8683, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturdays. In Your Community From March 6 – 23, temporary voter registration opportunities are at hundreds of locations throughout the province. View electoral district voter registration opportunities at: elections.bc.ca/registration-opportunities.

Is there someone registered at your address who no longer lives there? Call Elections BC or go to elections.bc.ca/remove to have them removed from your address. Who can register? You are eligible to register to vote if you: . are a Canadian citizen, . are 18 or older, . have lived in B.C. for the past six months. Election workers required: Over 37,000 election workers are needed to work for the May 2013 Provincial General Election. View available postings at elections.bc.ca/jobs.

B.C. voters can also register or update their information when they go to vote in the May 2013 Provincial General Election. Elections BC is a non-partisan Office of the Legislature responsible for administering the Election Act, the Recall and Initiative Act, and the conduct of referenda under the Referendum Act .

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Toeing the line

Houston Today

Pipeline proliferation possibility first requires a very public debate By Jim Culp

head including all of the other species In reference to that are found in the the proliferation Skeena River system. There has been of pipeline proposcomprehensive, als that could be lo- no cated in the Morice government initiated resource River watershed, the integrated Burnie River pass, the planning process that Kitimat Valley or al- includes the input ternatively through the from the public or apSkeena River corri- parently from First dor, through the Nass Nations as has been River watershed and suggested by those along or over many involved in the “Idle tributaries of the two No More movement”. Environmental major river systems, The process as well as the planning Assessment of new electrical trans- which is initiated by mission lines to service a proponent does not the liquefied natural address many of the issues we are talkgas (LNG) plants. The Northern ing about. In other Branch of the words there has been Steelhead Society of no easy way for the British Columbia is public or average First alarmed and shocked Nation person to be that neither our pro- able to talk with either vincial or federal Government about the governments have importance of these made any effort to river systems, there understand or even fish and other values acknowledge the im- before critical deciportance of the river sions have reached a watersheds (the pipe- point of finality. The emphasis by lines will traverse), their fish, wildlife and both levels of governsubstantial, associated ment for economic economic and intrin- development has been sic social values that very one sided. The these historical, natu- lack of concern for ral watershed resourc- other interests is dises have provided for tressing and disquiFirst Nations, British eting. Both governColumbians and for ments have gone so far visitors from around as to silence their scientists and managers. the world. The remaining The Morice River is home to the largest few professional and population of chinook technical staff in the salmon in the Skeena Ministry of Forests, drainage and one of Lands and Natural the most extensive in Resource Operations Fish, BC, the largest race of (MFLNRO), summer steelhead in Wildlife and Habitat BC, a huge population sections and simiof pink salmon along larly with a now with substantial num- much smaller Federal of bers of other species Department which spawn and rear Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) can now only in its waters. It is one of the most carry out the most esprolific and impor- sential responsibilities. Their budgets have tant recreational river fisheries in British been slashed and in some instances have Columbia. The Skeena River is been entirely elimithe mother river to all nated, preventing both of those populations government agencies plus the myriad of from carrying out other runs, races, spe- meaningful stock and assessment, cies and populations habitat that are indigenous or research and studies migrate to and from to address the imporother tributary rivers tance and value of the fish species that both and streams. The Nass River Governments are rewatershed is the third sponsible to protect largest salmon pro- and to manage. Those mandated ducer in the province, with major and unique to carry out environpopulations of steel- mental assessment are

consideration of location options should be discussed. Upon determination where the corridor(s) are going to be located than a discussion over how many pipelines should be allowed in a corridor, either deciding in favour of a number of smaller pipelines or possibly one or two larger pipelines in an effort to minimize the environmental footprint might be an idea. It should be the rule that natural gas is provided to all British Columbians in communities located along or close to a new pipeline, such as to the Hazeltons and Kitwanga where natural gas is not now available. There are other issues such as the petrochemical industry concerns over the declining availability of natural gas derivatives such as ethane as well Photo submitted as price implications Shell Canada officials with a sample section of a 48-inch diameter pipeline. The over the export of gas. company wants to build that size pipeline to Kitimat. One of the larger taxed with interpreting wide for generations company has said on corporations in the meagre and or often with so many very un- many occasions to business is so conno data that is realistic, happy and disastrous those of us who live cerned over the large meaningful or quan- consequences. in the northwest that scale export of natural tifiable. There for it It is the responsi- they would consult gas, it has commented is impossible for them bility of senior gov- broadly and not leave in a roundabout way to make fair and re- ernments, not corpo- a stick or stone left un- over the rational, or sponsible, stand alone rations to undertake turned. if we can use the word decisions, based upon the initial integrated We guess their giant “threat” to the domessolid and substantive resource planning for phone conversation tic supply of natural science. What has and large industrial proj- during last autumn gas and the availabilcontinues to unfold ects and activities in was in their mind ity of the by-products is reprehensible and terms of where project their idea of carrying from it. There is little must be challenged. If works can or should be out sufficient due dili- doubt that this is a very our watersheds are go- located and how they gence. complicated subject ing to be shredded and and existing econoWhat is unfolding that our organization their fisheries and as- mies and resource val- in front of our eyes is may not clearly undersociated values squan- ues can co-exist. the largest combined stand but at the same dered than all of our Rather shockingly group of industrial time is of the opinion citizens must know Spectra is moving into projects in the history that a clearing of the what the consequences the assessment stage of British Columbia. air and open discusare going to be. for its huge 48” diamOne would assume sion is very important The construction eter natural gas pipe- that such a mam- for the industry as well and operation of as line. In comparison, moth industrial devel- for all Canadians. many as six pipelines this proposed pipeline opment plan would Fracking or hywill have an enormous will have a diameter trigger an apolitical draulic fracturing of impact upon the spec- that is almost five times community/provincial geological formations tacular scenery of our the size of the existing dialogue so that all to allow the escape region which seems to 10” diameter PNG concerned could learn of natural gas and reno longer matter or to pipeline which at one and understand the place it with water is a be a serious consider- time provided enough consequences of what huge and controversial ation. natural gas for three is being proposed. subject that cannot be The history and pulp mills, a methanol There should be ignored. connections to this plant, the Rio-Tinto discussion over where The implications very special part of Alcan smelter as well or if LNG plants from such a divisive our province is being as for residential con- and energy corridors way of extracting natignored and pushed sumption and all of should be located in ural gas needs a full aside for hasty, panic the other commercial a particular area If public airing. and corporation driv- and industrial users in there is community, reThere must be a dien, gigantic industrial Kitimat, Prince Rupert gional and provincial alogue over carbon didevelopment, sadly so and Terrace with extra consensus for LNG oxide emissions from similar to that which natural gas to spare. plants and corridors LNG production, crehas taken place worldThis very large to be established than ating electrical power

from natural gas and from the extraction of natural gas. It is crucial to determine if there is a contrasting set of BC government principles and policies over the development of giant LNG plants, while on the other hand attempting to control and reduce green house gas emissions in BC. We need to understand the consequences for the future of British Columbia, with the extraordinary, never before contemplated amount of electrical energy that will have to be used and produced for a single form of industrial development, creating LNG at four or more proposed conversion facilities. As an example of the magnitude of these projects, it is our understanding that one large LNG plant could consume all of the electrical energy the proposed “Site C” Peace River hydro development could produce. A public dialogue must happen with British Columbians in a frank, open and thorough way, with no political or ideological baggage to confuse or distort the discussion. This is not intended to be an election issue, but a responsibility for all the political parties to support, including the governing party. No one party or government has the mandate to decide on such a gigantic policy shift and set a new direction with so many unknown implications without discussing the transformation with its citizens. Sadly the discussion to date has been content to push the process and ignore, bury and hide the issues, moving us in a totally wrong direction which could all be reversed if the process were carried out in an open and democratic way. Jim Culp is a longtime angling advocate. The above originated as a letter to Premier Christy Clark.

Houston Today

NEWS

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

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Gas credits no subsidy, premier says

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(250) 692-7791 • 1 (888) 629-3996 Premier Christy Clark speaks to international LNG conference in Vancouver Monday. By Tom Fletcher Black Press

B.C.’s natural gas exploration royalty credit program is worth up to $120 million this year, but it’s not a subsidy to industry, Premier Christy Clark says. Clark announced the total at an international conference on liquefied natural gas exports Monday, boasting that costs are higher for other producers. “Australia’s the main competition, and it looks like we’re leaving them in the dust more and more every day,” Clark told delegates at the Vancouver convention centre. B.C.’s royalty credit program is going into its 12th year. It provides breaks on natural gas royalty payments to companies that commit to building new roads and pipelines for gas production in remote areas. Clark said the program recovers its initial cost at a rate of $2.50 for every dollar given out, because it stimulates gas production that otherwise wouldn’t take place. The program was credited with luring drilling rigs away from Alberta to B.C.’s remote northeast shale gas deposits in previous years. Clark also announced a $32 million provincial loan to 15 aboriginal communities

on the route of a new natural gas pipeline from northeast gas developments to to LNG export facilities on B.C.’s North Coast. The Pacific Trails pipeline is to run 463

km from Summit Lake to Prince George to Kitimat. At the conference, the province and Chevron Canada signed a benefit sharing agreement that they said will provide

up to $200 million to aboriginal groups on the route over the life of the project. First Nations that signed the agreement are the Haisla, Kitselas, Lax Kw’alaams, Lheidli

Tom Fletcher/Black Press

T’enneh, McLeod Lake, Mtlakatla, Nadleh Whut’en, Nak’azdli, Nee Tai Buhn, Saik’uz, Skin Tyee, Stellat’en, Ts’il Kaz Kog, West Moberly and Wet’suwet’en.

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HOPE forToday The question for today is:

How are you right before a Holy God?

irst you have to believe whether there is a god or not. God has revealed Himself in two ways: through general revelation and special revelation. General revelation means how God revealed Himself in creation. In Romans 1:19-20 it says that no one is without excuse for not knowing God, for God has revealed Himself plainly in creation. Psalm 8 says the moon and stars tell about His glory. And He did not need an evolutionary process to make it happen, for Genesis 1:3 says He spoke and it came to be. Special revelation means God has revealed Himself through His word, it’s His-story. It’s His book, the Bible, filled with eye witness accounts. So, there is enough evidence that God exists, yet the question remains: How am I made right with God, the God of creation, a God who is altogether Sovereign, Holy, all-knowing and present everywhere. The answer is through true faith. Now, what’s true faith? True faith is the belief that He exists and that out of sheer grace, He extends to me salvation through His Son, whom He sent and who dwelt among us - none other then Jesus Christ. So, am I right with God by knowing Jesus Christ?? Not only knowing about Jesus Christ, but by having a living relationship with Him. This means knowing, trusting and acknowledging Him as Saviour. Saviour of what? The Saviour of your soul, saving from God’ wrath. And this being right with God can only happen through His Son, Jesus Christ. A great verse comes to mind, which is John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His Son, His one and only son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” And verse 17 carries on, “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” So it all rests upon the finished work and sacrifice of Jesus Christ upon the cross. Our sin had to be paid for, and now we can appear before God, unashamed through Christ Jesus, our mediator and friend. This ought to give us hope each and everyday. Quotes are taken from the NKJV of the Bible. Submitted by: Gerrit Keegstra Sponsored by Riverside Gardens

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

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Houston Today

NEWS

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Wednesday, March 6, 2013

British Columbia is ‘the new Australia’ for natural gas By Tom Fletcher Black Press

Executives for global natural gas companies say B.C. is well positioned to compete for Asia’s rising demand for new and cleaner energy supplies, although liquefied natural gas export projects are still at least five years from loading the first ships. Industry and g o v e r n m e n t representatives gathered in Vancouver’s new convention centre Monday for a two-day conference on LNG development, and heard about efforts to keep ahead of numerous competing countries. Federal Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver announced Canada’s largest LNG export permit so far, to a joint venture of Shell Canada, Korea Gas, Mitsubishi and PetroChina International. The licence goes to LNG Canada Ltd., a consortium with an agreement to build export

facilities on Haisla Nation territory near Kitimat. The B.C. government now expects at least five such export facilities to be built in the coming years. Oliver said attendance by global

“

British Gas), said bringing pipelines across two mountain ranges from B.C.’s shale gas deposits in the northeast to the coast is a significant challenge. New gas supplies from East Africa and

B.C. has LNG reserves equivalent to meeting Japan’s expected demand for the next 275 years.

LNG producers and potential buyers is “a sign that B.C. is emerging as a major player in the global natural gas market,” with reserves equivalent to meeting Japan’s expected demand for the next 275 years. The conference heard Monday from industry leaders about the threats as well as opportunities. Betsy Spomer, vice-president of global business development for BG Group (formerly

the United States are also on the horizon, but BG Group still expects that B.C. is positioned as “the new Australia” in global LNG exports, Spomer said. She added that colder weather in the Prince Rupert area gives B.C. an advantage over places like the Gulf of Mexico, because gas needs to be compressed and chilled to low temperature for shipment. Luo Weizhong, vice president of China

Tom Fletcher/Black Press

Haisla Nation Chief Ellis Ross and federal Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver announce Canada’s largest export permit for liquefied natural gas in Vancouver Monday. Invite the whole community to your next brownie meeting, hockey game or gala evening with a couple of clicks. Add your event today.

events there’s moreWonline »

International Women’s Day evening in Houston Fri., Mar. 8. Looking for speakers; entertainment and door prizes. If you can help out call Naomi Himech at 250-845-7537 and to register to attend this dinner meeting please call Northwest Community College at : 250-845-7266. Houston Curling Club’s Closing Mixed Bonspiel Bulkley Valley Credit Union March 15 & 16, Houston Curling July Rink.2007 $200 EPS Logos to be supplied to Newspapers entry fee per team, three events, two men, two ladies per team. Cash prizes & door prizes. Dress in your Pantone colours: Pantone 287 Bluefinest Blarney style! Saturday’s dinner included in the entry fee. Register before March Pantone 356 Green 14/13.Harvest Contact Arnold at 250-845-2132 or email Pantone 139 houstoncurlingclub@yahoo.ca.

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CREDIT UNION

Friday (evening) March 22nd, Saturday, March 23rd & Sunday, March 24th, 2013.

Anyone interested in taking the course or wants more information about the air brakes course, please call

250-845-3288 or Cell 250-845-1112 Email:

Toll Free: 1-888-644-3555 bvdrivin@bvdrivingschool.ca • www.bvdrivingschool.ca

Spaces are limited so call ASAP

Topley

Seniors Bingo is every Tues. at 7pm at Cottonwood Topley Fire Protection Society - Annual General Manor. Entry is $1. Come out & enjoy a fun prize Meeting - March 17 at 2PM at the Fire Hall. During the meeting elections will be held for the following filled evening. Lots of prizes! positions: Vice President, Treasurer and Director The Houston Legion Branch 249: Meeting: 2nd Mon. of the month is Executive, 4th Mon. is General Structural Firefighting/Hwy Rescue. Interested? Topley Volunteer Fire Dept. is accepting applicaMeeting. tions. No experience necessary please contact ByHouSTon PuBLIC LIBRaRy - The Library is open ron - F/C 250-696-3348 or come to a fire practice: and Story Time resumes Wed. March 6 starting at Thurs. @ 1930 hrs (7:30 pm) 1:30 p.m. For more info please call 250-845-2256. Topley Volunteer Fire Dept. meetings every 2nd Houston Community Services is open Mon. thru Tues. of the month at 7:30 pm. Fire practices every Fri. from 9am to 4pm We have clothing to give Thurs. at 7:30 pm. away. Baby clothing; women’s and mens as well as children of all ages. Come and check it out!

Granisle

The Houston Retirement Housing Society is asking Granisle and District Seniors meetings are the interested parties to provide their names for future The Houston & District Chamber of Commerce is vacancies at our Pleasant Valley Village apartments. 2nd and 4th Thurs. of each month at 1pm in the Seniors Centre. sponsoring a PST Seminar presented by the Ministry Please call Roberta@250-845-2257. Granisle Volunteer Fire Department meetings & of Finance on Wed., March 20 from 10am – 12pm. You must pre-register for this seminar. For more info Houston Secondary School webpage: http:// fire practices every Tues., 7 p.m. at the Fire Hall. or to register, please contact the Houston & District hssweb.sd54.bc.ca Granisle Church of the Way services are Sun., Chamber of Commerce atColour 250-845-7640. Logo File 11 a.m. Bible study is Thurs. at 7 p.m.

Bulkley Valley CREDIT UNION

HOUSTON & DISTRICT BRANCH 2365 Copeland Ave. P.O. Box 1480, Houston • Ph: 250-845-7117

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Houston Dart League is Sat. evenings at 7:30 pm. upstairs at the Houston Curling Club. Blind doubles games.

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Please keep your announcements as brief as possible. Deadline (faxed or mailed or delivered) is 4 p.m. Thursday. Items are printed or alternated as space permits. Items will be accepted via fax, email or dropped at the office. No phone calls please. More calendar items are listed online and can be submitted or viewed at www.houston-today.com

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National Overseas Oil Company, said China needs LNG for environmental reasons as well as to meet rising energy demand. Transport trucks in China are being converted from diesel to LNG, and the country is trying to replace coal power with cleaner alternatives to deal with huge air pollution problems. Anders Ekvall, an executive with Shell Canada, told the conference that natural gas represents the best chance to cut global greenhouse gas emissions in the short term. Shell is planning investments in B.C. as one of the few producers likely to survive in the global LNG competition, he said.

Bulkley Valley

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INDEX IN BRIEF Family Announcements .......... 001-007 Community Announcements ... 008-076 Children................................ 080-098 Employment .......................... 102-165 Services ............................... 170-387 Pets/Livestock ...................... 453-483 Items for Sale/Wanted .......... 503-595 Real Estate ........................... 603-696 Rentals ................................ 700-757 Transportation ....................... 804-860 Marine.................................. 903-920 Legals ....................................... Legal

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WHMIS Traffic Control First Aid Reserve your seat for April 1, 2013. Taylor Pro Training Ltd at 1-877-860-7627 www.taylorpro training.com

Help Wanted EXPERIENCED CDA required for Dr. Dale Henry, starting April. Prostho module an asset. Office Hours TuesdayWednesday-Thursday 7:30am - 6pm. Resumes to: 201-330632nd Ave, Vernon, V1T 2M6 Fax 250-545-6872 or email: docsmiley@shawcable.com GUARANTEED JOB Placement: General Laborers and Tradesmen For Oil & Gas Industry. Call 24hr Free Recorded Message for Information: 1800-972-0209. Resident Manager for 20 unit Silver Star Motel,Vernon Fax 250-545-3859 email silverstar motel@shaw.ca

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Maple Ridge shop req. full time Fitter/Fabricator with specific pressure vessel/heat exchanger experience. Can interpret shop dwgs is well versed in layout, fitting and tacking of pressure vessel tube and shell heat exchangers & tanks w/minimum supervision. Competitive Salary, with BeneďŹ ts Including Pension. Please e-mail resume emmfg.com

In Memoriam

In Memory of Carl

April 26, 1940 - March 5, 2008 Got a picture of you I carry in my heart, Close my eyes to see it when the world gets dark, Got a memory of you I carry in my soul, I wrap it close around me when the nights get cold, If you ask me how Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m doing, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d say just fine, But the truth is, if you could read my mind, Not a day goes by, that I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think of you, After all this time, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still with me itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true, Somehow you remain, locked so deep inside,

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Not a day goes by... Dad it has been 5 years, and not a day goes by...

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Services NOW HIRING! Journey person, 30 Millwrights, 50 Pipefitters, 20 Welders, with industrial experience for a large project in Vanscoy, SK. Wages $34-$40/hour, plus retention & completion bonuses, 14/7 shift rotation, paid benefits, RRSPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Travel & living out allowance (for eligible candidates). Successful candidates must complete a pre-access A&D test & CSTS 09 training. Apply with current resume and references to jobs@monad.ca or online at: www.monad.ca or fax 1-888398-0725 or in person at 9744-45 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6E 5C5

AL-ANON Are you affected by someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drinking? Al-Anon meetings are Monday, 7pm at the Houston United Church. Contact numbers are: (250) 845-3356 or (250) 8457774. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Meetings are at the Houston United Church, Monday and Thursday at 7:00pm. Contact number is:1-877-644-2266

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SECRETARY TREASURER Due to the retirement of the incumbent, the School District invites qualified applicants to submit a letter of introduction, resume and 3 references to: Mr. C. van der Mark Superintendent of Schools School District#54 (Bulkley Valley) P.O. Box 758 Smithers BC V0J 2N0 ch-vandermark@sd54.bc.ca Interested candidates may obtain a position profile from the Districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at www.sd54.bc.ca under staff tab and then employment tab. Applications will be received in writing or by email until 3:00 pm local time, March 15, 2013.

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Help Wanted

Summer Job Opportunities The District of Houston is now accepting applications for the following seasonal positions:

STUDENT LABOURER (3 positions) Primary responsibilities include turf operations, grooming, watering, fertilizing, general repair and preventative maintenance. This is a CUPE Union position with a rate of pay of $18.04 per hour. Required Qualifications: â&#x20AC;˘ Experience in grounds keeping and general labour. â&#x20AC;˘ First Aid certification â&#x20AC;˘ Driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Abstract required. Preference will be given to applicants who are enrolled in a postsecondary institution for the Fall of 2013. Approximate Employment Dates: May 13th to August 16th, 2013 (14 weeks) (35 to 40 hours/week) Interested persons should direct all queries and applications to: Ryan Coltura, Director of Leisure Services, District of Houston PO Box 370, 3367 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12th Street, Houston, BC V0J 1Z0 PH: 250-845-7420 â&#x20AC;˘ FAX: 250-845-3429 â&#x20AC;˘ E-MAIL: doh@houston.ca Applications will be accepted at the District of Houston Municipal Office until 4:30 pm, Friday, March 15, 2013.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the net at www.bcclassiďŹ ed.com Place of Worship

Place of Worship

HOUSTON & AREA

CHURCH DIRECTORY Anglican Church of St. Clement

2324 Butler Ave., Box 599, Houston, BC

Phone: 250-845-4940

Services are: 10:30 a.m. Sundays

+RXVWRQ 8QLWHG &KXUFK

2106 Butler Ave. Houston, B.C. Contact: 250-845-2282

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HOUSTON PENTECOSTAL CHURCH 2024 Riverbank Drive, Box 597, Houston Phone: 250-845-2678 â&#x20AC;˘ Pastor: Mike McIntyre

Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 am Sunday Prayer Meeting: 7:00 pm Sunday School: During the Service Everyone Welcome

Houston Today Wednesday, March 6, 2013

www.houston-today.com 19

Legal Services

Merchandise for Sale

CRIMINAL RECORD? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let it block employment, travel, education, professional, certification, adoption property rental opportunities. For peace of mind & a free consultation call 1-800-347-2540.

Heavy Duty Machinery A-STEEL SHIPPING DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS Used 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;40â&#x20AC;&#x2122;45â&#x20AC;&#x2122;53 in stock. SPECIAL 44â&#x20AC;&#x2122; x 40â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Container Shop w/steel trusses $13,800! Sets up in one day! Also Damaged 40â&#x20AC;&#x2122; $1950 Call Toll Free Also JD 544 & 644 wheel loaders JD 892D LC Excavator Ph. 1-866-528-7108 Free Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com

Misc. for Sale

Antiques, Furnishings & Collectibles Auction

Sale conducted on behalf of several Estates SALE 1 March 16, 2013 Saturday @ 11:00 am. Coast Inn of the West Banquet Room, 4620 Lakelse Ave, Terrace, BC ANTIQUES & FURNISHINGS: Couch & loveseatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, bedroom suites, bunk beds, rocking chairs, dining room suites & china hutchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, new glass top coffee & end tables, inlaid antique claw foot coffee table, other misc. coffee tables & end tables, antique bar, Victorian chairs, misc. kitchen chairs & occasional chairs, roll top desk, corner hutch, display cabinets, leather Wingback chair & ottoman. There is a supply of misc. antique items, overstuffed recliners. ANTIQUE HORSE GEAR: There is a very large selection of antique horse gear that includes, sleigh bells, collars, hames etc. NATIVE & TRADITIONAL ART: Large selection of Native Art including hides, drums, facemasks, leather art & clothing, moccasins, paddles, selection of framed painted art & pictures. BANK NOTE & COINS: Large selection of coins collections & Sets, individual coins & bank notes, US, Canadian & other country coins. HOUSEHOLD & MISC COLLECTABLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S: Dolls, clocks, floor & table lamps, candelabraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, fiddle & other misc. musical instruments, brass music stand, brass, pewter, wrought iron collectableâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, glassware & vases, Antique horn, swords, display pistol, carvings, oil lamps, watches, jewelry, military medals. This sale has a large & excellent quantity of new and used items, antiques & collectableâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. This is a partial listing, so look for future advertising as there are more items to come. Please view website for pictures of all scheduled sales. Consignments welcome. If you would like to consign any items contact Mikes Auction. Condition of Sale. Terms: cash & cheque with identification, sorry no credit cards. Items are As Is Condition ~ Not responsible for accidents. There will be a concession on Site. SALE 2 Antiques, Furnishings & Collectibles Auction. April 20, 2013 Saturday @ 10:00 am. Francios Lake Hall, Francios Lake, BC. South of Burns Lake, Intersection of Hwy 35 & Colleymount Road. SALE 3 Industrial Machinery, Equipment & Tool Auction. May 25, 2013 Saturday @ 10:00 am. Topley Garage, Topley, BC. Intersection of Hwy 16 & Hwy 118 to Granisle. Any question Please Contact:

Mike Steinebach @ (250) 694-3497 or Cell (250) 692-6107 Egon Steinebach @ (250) 694-3319 or Cell (250) 570-2055 E-Mail: mike@mikesauction.net. Website: www.mikesauction.net

Merchandise for Sale

Rentals

Misc. for Sale

BIG BUILDING sale... â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;?This is a clearance sale. you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to miss!â&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;? 20x20 $3,985. 25x24 $4,595. 30x36 $6,859. 35x48 $11,200. 40x52 $13,100. 47x76 $18,265. One End wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422. www.pioneersteel.ca

STEEL BUILDINGS/metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-4572206 or check us online at: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

Seasonal Acommodation

HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/newspaper? SAWMILLS FROM only $3997 - Make money & save money with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free Info & DVD online: www.Norwood Sawmills.com/400OT or call 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT. Stained glass equipment/supplies CHROMA-GLASS SENTIMENTS 250-847-9636 1665 Hudson Bay Mtn. Rd., Smithers, B.C.

$449 CABO San Lucas, all inclusive Special! Stay 6 Days in a Luxury Beachfront Resort with Meals & Drinks! For $449! www.luxurycabo hotel.com 1-888-481-9660.

Misc. Wanted Local Coin Collector Buying Collections, Accumulations, Olympic Gold & Silver Coins + Coin Guy: 778-281-0030

Coming to Houston March 17 - 20 Have your classified ad running in....

Houston Today The Bantam TierNews 4 Smithers Interior Championships hosted by Terrace Standard HoustonKitimat Bantams will held Sentinel in Houston with over 100 Prince Rupert Northern View athletes,Northern coachesConnector and parents coming to There Thetown. Northern Daily will a banquetLakes on March for all District 16 News players and coaches Prince George at the Houston Community Free Press Hall. Following the banquet is a Vanderhoof Omineca in Express coaches meeting the viewing & Fort JamesThe room at the St. arena. Caledonia Courier viewing room is transformed

into a lounge for all the officials and referees for the duration of the championships.

O S

NICEST APARTMENTS: Crest Villa seeks mature, responsible tenants for large, modern, clean, one and two bedroom apartments. Near arena and pool. Downtown Location. Call: (250) 845-4037

ONE OF A KIND! Business/OfďŹ ce Service

Business/OfďŹ ce Service

See next weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paper for a ! full schedule & more details P.O. Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0 Phone: 250-845-2890 Fax: 250-845-7893

advertising@houston-today.com www.houston-today.com

â&#x20AC;˘ Extensively renovated, tastefully decorated, spacious rancher on huge lot. â&#x20AC;˘ Spacious open kitchen, dining and living with gorgeous laminate, fresh paint, new light fixtures. â&#x20AC;˘ Huge master with 3 pc en-suite and large closet â&#x20AC;˘ Main bath w/soaker tub and tile completely renovated in 2012. â&#x20AC;˘ More insulation blown in this year as well. â&#x20AC;˘ Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss this one!

177,500

For Sale By Owner

FAMILY FAVOURED!

Home is move in ready For Sale: Upgraded 4 bedroom 2 bathroom house located close to elementary and high school. Numerous upgrades include kitchen, bathrooms, windows, and vinyl siding with added insulation behind. Floor plan and room sizes are good. Attached garage. Must be viewed to be appreciated.

â&#x20AC;˘ Extensively renoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d 4 bedroom, 2 bath home on huge lot in Avalon Subdivision. â&#x20AC;˘ All new flooring on main, new countertops in kitchen. â&#x20AC;˘ Main bath completely updated. â&#x20AC;˘ Bright, spacious basement w/ bedroom, games room & family room. â&#x20AC;˘ 4 year old woodstove in basement. Tonnes of storage. â&#x20AC;˘ 16 x 36 sundeck, detached wired workshop, greenhouse.

159,900

For appointment to view 250-845-2613

Wanted LotsTo Buy

ACREAGE WANTED

Distinguished eccentric old school gentleman desires to buy acreage Ior gardening ÓžreZood near highZay cash aYailable

Starting on March 17 @ 10:30 for only... the competition begins. The opening ceremonies are 7:30 pm on March 17 and will include a +HST power point slide show on the big 3 lines (No changes) screen featuring pictures of all runs 1 week in all 11 papers participants. The competition continues until the championship game on March 20 @ 8:00 pm

Many lending institutions will prequalify you for a specific size and type of mortgage loan before you begin searching for your new home. Taking the time to apply for a pre-approved mortgage will give you the security of knowing how much you can afford to spend.

D L

Apt/Condo for Rent

HIGHWAY 16 Tier 4 Bantam Regional Championship Tournament Classifieds

BUYING... SELLING... TRADING?

DID YOU KNOW... NOW...

Rentals

Call: 1-250-844-1648

Cars - Domestic

MUST SELL

Auctions

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 or Phone 1-800-BIG-IRON. FOR RESTLESS or Cramping Legs. A Fast acting Remedy since 1981, sleep at night, proven for 31 years. Online: www.allcalm.com, Mon-Fri 8-4 EST 1-800-765-8660.

Merchandise for Sale

Cars - Domestic

YOUR GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY! â&#x20AC;˘ Custom built 5 bedroom home on a huge lot in Ruiter Heights Subdivision. â&#x20AC;˘ Oak cabinets in kitchen, garden doors off dining room to patio. â&#x20AC;˘ Laundry on main. Spacious rec room with pellet stove in basement. â&#x20AC;˘ 3 bathrooms, outside basement entry, single garage, fenced yard.

204,900

The Hometown Experts with a World of ExperienceÂŽ

1996 Chevrolet Cavalier SL 2 dr convert, average condition.

Reduced!!

$4,200

obo

100% Financing available O.A.C.

250-847-7928 Cell 250-877-2434

Lia Long 250-845-1147

Re/Max Houston

2436 Poulton Ave., Houston, BC e-mail: remaxhou@telus.net

Call 250-845-7325 www.realtor.ca

www.remaxhouston.ca

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Houston Today

M E AT

Chicken Breasts Boneless, Skinless Superpack, 12.10 kg

NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED!

Outside Round Steaks

Your Pantry Fill Specialists

Superpack 7.25 per kg

PR O D U C E

Navel Oranges 10 lb box

F R OZ E N

Pink Grapefruit

Minute Maid Orange Juice

5 lb bag

6x295 ml

799 F E ATU R E S

Coca-Cola Fridgemates Plus Deposit, Plus Eco-Fee 10 or 12x355 ml

Kellogg’s Raisin Bran

Michelina’s Entrees

499

2 for

G R E AT BA R G A I N S

Kraft Cheez Whiz

Hellmann’s Mayonnaise

Original, 1 kg

Heinz Beans Assorted Varieties 398 ml

Regular , 1.8 litre

Club House Montreal Steak Spice

1.08 L

Value Priced Cookies Assorted Varieties 625-907 gram

Ziploc Freezer Bags or Storage Bags 15-75 count

299

Cash & Carry Only

Assorted Varieties 285-300 gram

1.24 kg

799

/lb

825 gram

910 gram

5 lb bag

2 for

/lb

Western Family Pulled Pork

Royal Gala Apples

2 for

4 for

500

Assorted Varieties 455 ml

199

Sunburst Cup Noodles

799

2 Varieties 12x100 gram

Value Priced Cat Litter

677

Kraft Barbecue Sauce

Western Family Classic Yogurt

Ocean’s Beach Towels Assorted Varieties

300

18 kg

2 Varieties 12x64 gram

Value Priced Bathroom Tissue Double Roll 24 roll

899

BULKLEY VALLEY WHOLESALE

Mon. to Thurs. 8 am - 7 pm • Fri. 8 am - 8 pm • Sat. 8 am - 6 pm • Sun. 9 am - 6 pm Prices in effect: March 6 - March 12, 2013

NOW ACCEPTING

3302 Highway 16 Smithers, BC • (250) 847-3313 • 1 (800) 579-3313 • bulkleyvalleywholesale.com