100 Mile House Free Press, December 25, 2013 by Black Press Media Group

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DECEMBER 25, 2013

Two Sections, 56 pages

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Merry Christmas

See our special Christmas Greetings section on pages B3-B22

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Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Government limited in response Esmat Nazaryar seeks Canadian “pressure” in Afghan murder, kidnapping case

Gaven Crites Free Press

t’s something Esmat Nazaryar remembers every night, and it underscores the inherent danger and personal risk involved with development work in one of the world’s most violent places. On April 17, Nazaryar, a Canadian citizen and country director with the Hope International Development Agency, was kidnapped from a relative’s home in a village in Kunduz province in northern Afghanistan. Armed men entered the home in the middle of the night while Nazaryar and members of his family slept. Multiple shots went off during the struggle to capture him. Nazaryar’s brother and cousin were wounded by gunfire, while his brotherin-law was shot and killed. Nazaryar says he later learned his brother-in-law, a father of five and married to his sister, had tried to protect him, and was killed for that. Nazaryar was held captive in a tiny house outside the city of Khan Abad for two nights. During the ordeal he was at different times rigorously confined, bound with chains and beaten. The kidnappers more than likely wanted money and the exact reason why Nazaryar was released remains unclear, but he was eventually freed by a guard he struck an agreement with. He says he still doesn’t know if his escape was planned by the whole group or by the one guard. In September, Nazaryar visited 100 Mile House, accompanied by area resident Jack Witty and John King, Hope International’s director of development. They talked about the South Cariboo Afghanistan Project, a charitable endeavour that since 2004 has benefited the Village of Jeloucha in Afghanistan, where Nazaryar is from and well-known and respected for the work he’s done in the impoverished region. King says approximately $80,000 has come from donors in the South Cariboo, which has aided in the construction of a medical clinic, clean water system, roads, a seed and animal bank and a new school. Ongoing work

File photo

Esmat Nazaryar, who survived a kidnapping in April 2013, has visited 100 Mile House several times, most recently in September 2013, to discuss the South Cariboo Afghan Project.

continues in Jeloucha and surrounding areas. Nazaryar, a resident of Surrey with a wife and four children, first shared this story with the 100 Mile House Free Press when he visited in September. Shortly after that, he and a program manager with Hope International spoke with officials from the Task Force on International Critical Incidents, a unit within the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD), which manages national security incidents that pose significant risks to the safety of Canadians or Canadian assets in cases like kidnappings, airline hijackings and terrorist attacks. When the kidnapping of Nazaryar happened back in April, it’s understood by Hope International and Nazaryar that the crisis team kept tabs on the situation and dealt with things like communication between the two countries. It’s unclear what other steps Canadian officials took with respect to investigating the matter, or what inquiries they’ve made with Afghan authorities, then or since. Jean-Bruno Villeneuve, a spokesperson with the DFATD, confirms Canadian diplomatic services met Nazaryar following his release.

“The Embassy of Canada in Afghanistan’s ability to provide consular and other support throughout the country is very limited,” Villeneuve explains in an e-mail. “To protect the private and personal information of the individual concerned, further details on this case cannot be released.” He adds the DFATD is pleased Nazaryar has safely returned to Canada, while stressing the government of Canada does not have jurisdiction in Afghanistan to investigate these types of incidents. “We call on the govern-

ment of Afghanistan to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.” Members of Hope International are weary of sounding like they’re criticizing the government’s response in fear of damaging their ongoing working relationship and jeopardizing any future funding. King does say the fact Nazaryar was working with a Canadian organization should have some bearing on how this country’s government handles the matter. “Because Esmat was born in Afghanistan, they see it as an internal issue. Esmat is a Canadian citizen, so they should be somewhat concerned. “Esmat is trying to prevent a spiralling of violence, trying to make peace. If the government would help him, he would probably be successful.” Nazaryar says authorities in both countries continue to ignore the matter and see it as an insignificant Afghan death in one remote village. He notes if the matter is left unresolved by authorities, it could spark further retribution and conflict between people in Afghanistan. Nazaryar says he believes the situation requires political discussion and action here in Canada. He talks about bringing justice to the matter and how pressure from Canada can force Afghan police and members of government to do more. “So far, I know nothing happened. I have no information [from investigators].

Nothing, of course, from the Afghanistan police or government. They don’t much care unless there’s some pressure on them.” The DFATD advises against all travel to Afghanistan, Villeneuve says. “Due to the unstable security situation, ongoing insurgency, terrorist attacks, the risk of kidnapping and a high crime rate.” (This is a point South Cariboo residents perhaps already understand, recalling the murder by Taliban insurgents near Kabul in 2008 of three aid workers. Among them was Shirley Case, who grew up in 100 Mile House.) Close to nine months after that horrifying night in Kunduz province, Nazaryar says his sister and her children are “surviving.” “I’m trying to help them out. It’s difficult. Small kids don’t have a father. A young woman doesn’t have a husband. Especially in a country like Afghanistan and a village like Jeloucha, life is difficult.” Nazaryar says he spoke with his brother recently about them and what they need to prepare for winter. He adds it’s because of him his brother-in-law lost his life and members of his family were hurt. “Always, it stays with me. Why I can’t do anything. Why I didn’t do anything. Everything is ‘Why?’ I remember this every night. It comes in my mind, how it happened, why it happened. Those kinds of things. Then I fall asleep.”

Submitted photo

Esmat Nazaryar, left, works with the Hope International Development Agency, a Canadian non-profit organization, helping direct several ongoing development projects in Afghanistan.

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FAST bytes LP’S OSB LEADER Louisiana-Pacific Corporation (LP) has named British Columbia native M.J. “Mac” Palmiere as its OSB regional operations manager for Canada, working out of the Vancouver office. Palmiere will oversee LP’s nine OSB operations in Canada, four of them Ainsworth OSB mills it acquired earlier this year, including the facility in 100 Mile House. The local industry veteran formerly worked as an executive at Howe Sound Pulp and Paper and at Canfor.

NEW JUDGES Three new judges have been appointed to the British Columbia Provincial Court. Attorney General and Justice Minister Suzanne Anton says this will help alleviate caseload pressures and improve access to justice. The Chief Judge will recommend to government in which B.C. communities the newly appointed judges – Lyndsay Smith, Richard Hewson and Lisa Wyatt – should preside.

GRAD RATES More Aboriginal students are completing high school in B.C. than ever before, as the six-year completion rate climbed to 59.4 per cent in 2012/13. This provincial rate has steadily improved over the past decade, rising from just 45.9 per cent in 2002/03. The six-year completion rate is the percentage of students graduating with a Dogwood [regular] diploma within six years of starting Grade 8. The actual rate of Aboriginal students who graduated with a Dogwood Diploma has increased 72 per cent since 2002/03, with 3,319 graduates in 2012/13.

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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CRD digs into farm land viability

YULETIDE YUMMIES

doing its enforcement A lot of our land is rea- its mandate, Richmond job as the activity on sonable for grazing on, adds. that property was con- but it isn’t high produc“That’s fine, as long The Cariboo Regional trary to its permitted tivity agricultural land.” as the percentage is District (CRD) is uses, Richmond says. The board wants to relative to the value of taking action after “That said, from the be sure that protect- the land, and you don’t hearing about poten- regional district’s point ing land in British decide to let a bunch tial ramifications of the of view, we recognize Columbia is a factual of land out of the land province’s core review that in our area we have view of land usage reali- reserve for development of the Agricultural Land a lot of land in the ALR ties, not simply finding Continued on A5 Commission (ALC) that is not good agri- numbers that fit within now underway. cultural land The regional and probably district received doesn’t belong a Nov. 8 release there. And, we sent out by BC have some that Food Systems does belong in Accounting & N e t w o r k the ALR.” Income Tax (BCFSN), statHe explains Service ing it fears the board’s Regular Hours Al Mon. - Fri. • 8:30am - 4:30pm the proposal Richmond concern is that 3-441 Alder Ave. 100 Mile House. will dismantle a core review Next to Re/Max the Agricultural Land may result in an arbiPh: 250.395.8830 Angela Binns Fax: 250.395.8998 Reserve (ALR), and it trary decision to protect Certified General Accountant urged the directors to land with infertile soil get involved. on a percentage basis CRD chair Al for agricultural purRichmond says the poses at the expense of board has resolved to land with better soil and ask for further consulta- climates. tion on any changes to “From our point of HOLIDAY HOURS: the ALC or to the ALR view, we’d only be conTuesday, Dec. 24 10am - 2ish CLOSED CHRISTMAS & BOXING DAY it administers being cerned if basically our Friday, Dec. 27 10am - 5pm proposed through the land began to become Saturday, Dec. 28 10am - 3ish core review. more tied up, more Monday, Dec. 30 10am - 5pm “This is just a core encumbered, with fewer Tuesday, Dec. 31 10am - 3ish review, so I don’t know pieces to come out ... CLOSED NEW YEAR’S DAY exactly what that’s going from the Okanagan, to do. We do know the and Lower Mainland European Specialities [ALC] produced a doc- areas where it is good & ument, and they know growing land. they need to be protect“That is different, Open: Mon. - Fri. 10am - 5pm Hwy 97 • 250-395-3315 • Next door to Save-On Foods ing more agricultural highly productive land. land.” Richmond refers to a 24-page letter from ALC chair Richard Bullock, which outlines the ALC’s progress in carrying out a renewed strategic vision and his aim to hold a clear and focused discussion about the history and purpose of the ALR and the ALC. In the past, CRD directors have experienced numerous refusals by the ALC to approve its decisions on local land applicaWe are accepting donations of food, food vouchers, new toys, tions relating to ALR removals or additions, and clothing to distribute to families this holiday season. he notes. “At one point, it was down to maybe only Celebrating 25 years of serving the South Cariboo 60 per cent of the time Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm when they agreed with #1 - 486 Birch Ave., 100 Mile House, BC our recommendations.” cfec@cariboofamily.org • www.cariboofamily.org In one case, the CRD FOR MORE INFORMATION OR went so far as to subTO DONATE TO OUR PROGRAMS, mit a soil sample to the PLEASE CALL 250-395-5155 ALC, and said it wasn’t Carole Rooney Free Press

$ $ $ $

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Stock up on Homemade Treats & Speciality Cheeses!

Carole Rooney photo

Eshaun Grewal, front, and Vishrut Heda had a lot of fun making gingerbread houses with the help of volunteer Kathy Perrin. They were among a dozen or so young students enjoying the after-school activity at the 100 Mile House Branch Library on Dec. 18.

School board struggles under wage hike

Province’s support staff agreement hits district budgets Carole Rooney Free Press

A school support staff contract with the Ministry of Education has left the local school board scrambling to find more than half a million dollars in its current operating budget. School District #27 trustees signed a memorandum of agreement with bargaining representatives for the school district’s support staff, but they aren’t happy about it. SD27 chair Tanya Guenther says the agreement will amount to $675,000 in additional costs to the local school district that will not be covered by any additional money from the Ministry of Education. “The ministry has indicated it will not be funding the wage increase. SD27 needed to develop a savings plan to cover the additional costs of $225,000 for the 2013/14 year and $450,000 for the 2014/15 year.” During a Nov. 26 board meeting, trustees decided to send a letter to the Education Minister Peter Fassbender

expressing their “displeasure” with a ministry directive that school boards find a way to cover the cost of the proposed new agreement with support staff within their existing budgets, and submit their plan to the ministry. Guenther says there are outstanding actions to address before the SD27 board can reveal how it’s going to find the cash. Budget discussions have not yet begun for the next fiscal year, she adds. “Once the bargaining process has concluded and the agreements have been ratified by all parties, we may be able to share more information about the savings plan developed to fund the wage increases.” This term is covered by a retroactive local agreement for July 1, 2012-June 30, 2014 for a total wage increase of 3.5 per cent. SD27 support staff is a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 959, and the members are expected to vote on the memorandum of agreement shortly.

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3rd Annual Touch of Christmas.

CARIBOO FAMILY ENRICHMENT CENTRE

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Charity program gets bigger

Community support “overwhelming” for Third Annual Touch of Christmas Gaven Crites Free Press

The Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre (CFEC) was a festive hub of activity on Dec. 17 as staff and volunteers were busy sorting and packing boxes full of toys and non-perishable food items, as part of the organization’s Third Annual A Touch of Christmas initiative. More than 60 boxes filled with donated goods were put together for families and seniors in the area. That’s compared to 20 the year the charitable initiative first started, says Lisa De Paoli, CFEC executive director. De Paoli says she thinks the increase is a combination of aware-

Gaven Crites photo

Eliane Wanner-Van Osch, far left, Ryan Dugaro and Lucille Armstrong were part of a team of people who put Christmas hampers together at the Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre on Dec. 17. They filled boxes with donated goods, toys and non-perishable food items as part of the Third Annual Touch of Christmas program.

ness of the program and the growing need for help in the community.

“With the economy the way it is, a lot of people are out of

work.... There have been families that have come in who are in

need that haven’t been to the CFEC before.” The items, as well as cash donations, were donated by local businesses and members of the community throughout November and December. Close to 30 volunteers and CFEC staff members darted around their office building in 100 Mile House getting the boxes filled and ready to be distributed. De Paoli called it “organized chaos” and “a lovable, giving environment.” “Everyone has been fantastic and we thank them for that. We appreciate the community support throughout the entire year to help families in need in the South Cariboo.”

Agricultural Land Commission review raises concerns From A4

in the Lower Mainland, and suggest that we have to hold our percentage high in the Cariboo, on land that shouldn’t really be in the ALR. “If you take 10 acres out here, but then you take one acre out in the Lower Mainland, its production capabilities are potentially much greater than ours.” In its query to the ALC, the board will reaffirm it supports preserving true agricultural land, he says, but that any decision must take into account how

arable and viable it is for those uses, and not just base it on quotas. Richmond adds the board will also ask the commission to continue to include the CRD in its decisions, to ensure they are balanced with knowledgeable local input. “Our rationale there is, simply, we need some local input, and we need provincial oversight.” The CRD will also request an extension of the timeframe of the core review process to allow for adequate discussions and consultations in order to make

2014 Thompson-Nicola Regional District Board of Directors Regular Meetings are scheduled for 1:15 pm on the following Thursdays in the Boardroom of the TNRD Civic Building located at 300 – 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, BC V2C 2A9. January February March April May June July August September October November December

16 and 30 20 13 and 27 17 8 and 22 19 17 21 – Out of Town, location TBA 18 9 and 23 6 and 20 11 – at 7:00 pm

meaningful presentations to the committee. More information is available by download-

ing the CRD Nov. 29 agenda item 3.2 at www. cariboord.bc.ca, and on the ALR website at

www.alc.gov.bc.ca, and the BCFSN website at www.fooddemocracy. org.

District streamlining accounts Ken Alexander Free Press

Councillors unanimously approved a new reserve allocation strategy at the District of 100 Mile House council meeting on Dec. 10. Administrators explained, and recommended, the strategy of amalgamating a number of existing reserve accounts and allocating the “Accumulated Operating Surplus” to

a number of key functions during a recent 2014 budget workshop. District chief administrative officer Roy Scott explained the consolidation and allocation of surplus will provide fiscal certainty, as well as increase the ability for capital planning in key areas – municipal infrastructure, utilities, and equipment replacement for emergency and community services Continued on A6

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STARTERS • Lobster Bisque Soup • Warm Selection of Breads & Rolls • Pickled Vegetable Platter • Chilled Seafood Display • Honey Dijon New Potato Salad with Bacon • Chef’s Caesar Salad Station • Seasonal Greens with Assorted Dressings • House Coleslaw with Cranberries & Almonds ENTREES • Roasted Winter Root Vegetables with Cracked Pepper & Honey • Garlic Mashed Yukon Gold Potatoes • Candied Yams with Pecan Brittle • Chicken and Wild Mushroom Wellington • Steamed Snow Crab with Lemon Butter • Carved Slow Roasted Prime Rib with Pan Jus •Yorkshire Pudding •Assorted Condiments DEATH BY CHOCOLATE DESSERTS • Fresh Fruit with Chocolate Fountain • Chefs Assorted Chocolates & Treats • Warm Chocolate Toffee Pudding with Whiskey Caramel Sauce • Chocolate Cheese Cakes and Creme Brules $29.95 per person • Reservations Recommended

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Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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Friends of Fish Lake disputes Taseko claims NRCan tailing pond seepage rates should have been disputed during hearings

The Friends of Fish Lake (FOFL) disputes some of the claims made by Taseko Mines Ltd. in recent weeks, Patricia Spencer states in a press release. Writing on behalf of the FOFL, she adds these allegations were made in response to the release of the Federal Environmental Review Panel’s report regarding the proposed New Prosperity Mine at Fish Lake (Teztan Biny). “The FOFL is of the view Taseko has made certain assertions through the media that are intended to distract the public from the fact that the company has received a second bad report from the independent environmental review panel. The report concluded the proposed mine would result in several significant adverse effects, including those to water quality in Fish Lake,

fish and fish habitat in with NRCan, the FOFL Fish Lake, and immiti- believes it should have gable adverse been brought impacts to the up during the Tsilhqot’in peohearings – not ple.” after the fact Shortly after when the panthe release of el’s record is the federal closed. panel’s report “The panel on the prowas very thorPatricia posed mine, ough in its Spencer the FOFL notes review of this Taseko Mines issued topic. In fact, the a statement alleging panel requested Taseko the Natural Resources do more modelling Canada (NRCan) used regarding seepage from the wrong design in the TSF, but the comanalyzing the seepage pany refused.” (CEAA rates in the tailings Doc. #539.) storage facility (TSF). Regardless of the “The latter claim is TSF issue, there are simply preposterous.” many other problems The FOFL states the with the proposed coptopic of seepage from per-gold project, the the TSF was thorough- release continues. For ly discussed during the example, Taseko Mines Topic Specific Hearings, based a large part of its where representa- argument for a second tives from Taseko had environmental review ample opportunity to on the claim its new meet face-to-face with mining plan would NRCan scientists to save Fish Lake. clarify any possible “It became evident misunderstandings. during the hearings, If Taseko had an issue and the panel’s report

Councillors approve reserve allocation strategy for ‘fiscal certainty’ From A5

– and other areas requiring somewhat less financial resources. Scott added it would also be helpful to have money available immediately if emergencies come up. After the meeting, Mayor Mitch Campsall said the consolidation will make it easier to get administrative work done.

“It will flow better. It will be easier for staff to deal with and it will be easier for [councillors] to determine where the money is sitting. “It will make everything simpler. Too often, we make things more complicated than they have to be and harder to work with.” Council will also try to maintain a balance of $500,000 in its Operations Surplus.

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of the project on Fish Lake water quality.” (Report of the Federal Review Panel New Prosperity GoldCopper Mine Project. October 2013. Page 87.) The company has not proven that it can save Fish Lake, thus putting into question one of the major justifications for the New Prosperity mine, Spencer states. “The FOFL is also concerned about the negative impact the

project would have on First Nations. Aboriginal people are unified in their opposition to the mine, and at the community hearings, not one Aboriginal person spoke in favour of the project. “The fact the proponent has for years continued to attempt to push this project ahead despite opposition from First Nations is disturbing to us. It demonstrates the company’s profound

MERRY CHRISTMAS We will be closed Dec. 24, 25, 31 & Jan. 1 Tuesday - Saturday 8:00am - 3:00pm 250-395-1185 • #3 - 869 Alder Ave. Next to Moon Repairs

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lack of respect for the Tsilhqot’in people, the First Nation most affected by the mine. Noting the FOFL is a group of citizens who live in the South Cariboo near 100 Mile House, the release concludes: “We have always had deep concerns about the proposed mine at Fish Lake. Even though the group supports mining as one sector of the region’s economy, it does not support this particular mining proposal.”

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confirms, Teztan Biny and its unique 85,000 trout would not be saved. Rather, it was demonstrated Taseko’s proposed water recirculation scheme and other measures would not be enough to protect water quality to support aquatic life. “Based on the evidence, the panel finds it is unable to accept Taseko’s conclusion that the water treatment options proposed would effectively mitigate the adverse effects

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100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

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Christmas parties abound at Canim Lake CANIM LAKE

Peter Hart 250 397-2645

harts@netbistro.com

Dear Canimites: It has been busy here at Canim with community events winding up the year. But today most are just enjoying the presence of family and friends on this special day, here in our snowy wonderland. Merry Christmas to all! Bachelor bake The season started with local women gathering to prepare gifts of baking for area bachelors and elderly. This year, heavy wet snow had fallen for days on end, making driving treacherous, but the women were not dismayed, not one bit. Eleven gathered in Margoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cabin, and with amazing energy and efficiency, prepared 28 baskets of goodies in a matter of minutes, each brimming with 35 to 40 pieces of cake, cookies, bars, and chocolate. Then off they went in

250-395-7494

Sheila Hart photo

Art Dumaresq got the folks up and dancing at the recent Canim Lake Community Club dinner at the Forest Grove Legion.

a cloud of snow to make the deliveries. FGVFD party Firefighters and first responders got together at Forest

Grove Volunteer Fire Department (FGVFD) Hall #1 to enjoy a Christmas feast prepared by The Two Sisters. Dessert was a river of

baked goods prepared by sisters-in-law Margo and Shannon Wagner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; brownies with peppermint icing, mini cheese cakes with fruit toppings, and Victoria Squares, a puffed pastry with cream. A gift exchange followed dinner using the roulette of the departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gifting system. Everyone brings a wrapped present of value from $10 to $15, and these are stacked on the dining table with people seated around. The first person selects and opens a gift. Continuing clockwise, the next person can select that unwrapped gift or take a new one from the table. And so it goes in turn. Those at the end of the line are at an advantage, being able to select any gift opened or a wrapped surprise still on the table. A steady stream of quips and laughter accompanies the action as gifts change hands. Young Lieutenant Matt Wiesendahl received more than a little ribbing this year. One of the first to select, to his dismay, he unwrapped a fancy box of potpourri. He had no takers for this gem until at the last moment, Margo,

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in a fit of compassion and accompanied by whoops of laughter from Mattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friends and much to his relief, swapped her bottle of wine for it.

dancing. Food donations brought by people quickly added up. In the end, six large bags of food were delivered to the Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre for the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;A Touch of Christmasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hampers.

Community club dinner The last big social of the season was the Community Club dinner at the Forest Grove Legion. More than 40 Canim and Hawkins lakes people piled in to catch up on each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s news and enjoy a great supper served by the Legion staff. President Margo Wagner welcomed everyone. Gordon Kellett brought Marion, enabling her to see everyone again. Art Dumaresq played for the group, singing Christmas songs then moving into some light rock â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roll dance tunes peppy enough to get some of the post-dinner crowd on their feet

Bits and bites â&#x20AC;˘ A black-billed magpie showed up briefly at our feeder, found the sunflower seed not to his liking and headed east. That was the first sighting here in the 10 years we have lived here. â&#x20AC;˘ The Canim Lake Post Office proved its worth again. Postmistress

Grace Buse, a master at the fine points of the postal system, got my Christmas package off to New Brunswick at a lower cost, with a faster delivery and with insurance to boot. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all for now. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wishing you many Blessings this Christmas day.

4HERE S MORE TO LOSE THAN JUST MEMORIES WWW ALZHEIMERBC ORG

Merry Christmas from Mardi, Tom, Judy, Christina, Keena & Barb Holiday Hours: Dec. 24 9:30am - Noon Closed until Jan. 2, 2014

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Perspectives

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

Celebrate Jesus' birthday

By Pastor Gary Forsyth Bethel Chapel in 100 Mile House

Hydraulic fracturing safe as possible

ith recent events bringing attention to hydraulic fracturing, I think it is important for British Columbians to know the facts about natural gas operations in our province. B.C. has been producing natural gas for more than 50 years. Hydraulic fracturing has been occurring for decades. Our experience has enabled us to put strict rules in place to govern industry, ensuring it is rigorously monitored and as safe as possible. We were the first province to make it mandatory to disclose the fluids used in the hydraulic-fracturing process. The online registry, FracFocus.ca, provides information about our regulations and an account of each well drilled. Our province’s geology provides us with natural advantages with hydraulic fracturing – kilometres away from the surface and below impermeable layers of rock. Wells are lined with

cement to a depth of 600 Our government supports metres to protect our soil responsible development and water. This provides because it makes long-term more protection for our sense. drinking water. We want industry to grow Furthermore, water usage in an environmentally is carefully monitored and sensible manner so all protected in B.C. British Columbians benefit The net result is B.C.’s from natural gas production. water supply We recognize is protected safe exploration and safe. It has as an opportunity never been to grow our contaminated as a economy. Revenue result of hydraulic generated enables fracturing. us to better We have protect our a dedicated environment and provincial pay for important regulator in services such as Rich place. The BC health care and Coleman Oil and Gas education. Commission has The reality is expert geologists, we must strike a hydrologists, and engineers realistic balance between the to ensure work remains safe. needs of our communities, While the experts do their and the need to be job, we continue to do ours. responsible stewards of our Government has made environment. sound policy decisions And, we are confident to support responsible we are doing that on many development. Worldfronts. leading regulations and best For instance, to address practices continue to guide growing demands, we how we operate. have a proposed Water

GUEST SHOT

hristmas was a time of year that in my childhood meant excitement. It was hoping that certain things would be under a tree; a joyful morning with unwrapping presents; feeling of love and peace from a house full of family. My six-year-old son has great expectations of Christmas and very few limitations on what he wants for Christmas. He’s looking forward to spending time with loved ones and presents. As wise parents we are teaching him that there are some limits. As we grow older, some things can change. The responsibility of having a job or being a parent makes you realize there are limitations in life. The joy we once lived in can be lost to sorrow and disappointments. Instead of peace, we experience strife. Hope can become distant as there is very little to firmly stand on and love has been watered down. We all know it should not be that way, and even though we try to get ourselves back to that place that we knew as kids, we may not be able to get there. The way we used to live as a child expecting great things feels lost forever. Isaiah 9:6, 7 predicts the birth of Jesus. It is an announcement of great joy, as it tells us that God is with us. Now, if God was vindictive, someone looking to punish us, that would be a terrifying thought. Christmas would not be good news. Who has fond memories of being punished? No one does and, thus, there would be no celebration of Jesus’ birth. But that is not the God who came to dwell with us. That is not the Jesus I’ve come to know. The desire of Jesus coming to us is a desire to bless not punish. He wants to turn all of the darkness in our lives into light, all of the loss we suffered into abundance. He wants to change our despair and sorrow into celebration and joy, and take our conflict, disorder, separation and replace it with peace! The ultimate desire of Jesus, the reason for the birth we celebrate on Christmas day is for a restored relationship with us. His ultimate desire is you! And that is very good news and worthy of celebrating.    Please join us during the Christmas season. Our weekend services are on Sunday at 10 a.m., and we will have a short Christmas Eve service on Dec. 24 at 6 p.m. at Bethel Chapel.

Published and printed by every Wednesday at 100 Mile House Box 459, 100 Mile House, B.C., V0K 2E0

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Sustainability Act. This act will ensure the best standards of environmental protection are in place now and in the future. Our approach appears to be working. We have an opportunity to become a leader in natural gas exports. As the world’s cleanest burning fossil fuel, natural gas is in high demand across the world. We see this as an opportunity to redefine our financial security and create prosperity for all British Columbians. We want future generations to benefit from the foresight we show today. To do that, we have made a commitment to responsibly develop a liquefied natural gas export industry. Our government supports natural gas development because it makes sense today and for generations to come. Natural gas is our best competitive advantage moving forward. Rich Coleman is the Minister of Natural Gas Development.

The 100 Mile House Free Press is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province's newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent within 45 days to: B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St. Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org.

2007

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

www.100milefreepress.net

Opinion

Conservatives block oversight for spies To the editor: Who is watching the watchers? Here, in Canada, revelations about potential violations by our own spy agencies haven’t come from government oversight, they’ve come from Edward Snowden – and the Conservative government doesn’t see that as a problem. Recently former United States intelligence contractor Edward Snowden leaked documents sug-

gesting the Communications Security Establishment of Canada (CSEC) initiated industrial espionage against Brazil’s ministry of mines and energy, and helped allies monitor leaders at a G20 summit hosted by Canada. This activity is embarrassing, unethical and harmful to our international relations. It underlines how the current structure for oversight of our national security and intelligence

agencies is woefully inadequate and does not provide Canadians with a meaningful understanding of what the government is doing. That’s why I have reintroduced legislation to create a parliamentary committee to review the framework and activities of all the Canadian national security agencies, including the CSEC, Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and the RCMP. Going as far back as 2004, an all-

party committee – including the Conservative Minister of National Defence Peter MacKay – unanimously called for this reform. Indeed, all other countries in the Five Eyes network – the alliance between Canada, the U.S., Australia, the United Kingdom and New Zealand – established similar committees years ago. Yet, when I sought the consent of the House of Commons to advance this important bill to committee, it

was blocked by the Conservative government. Questioned about the issue in the House, the Tories even deny there is a problem. That’s not good enough. Everyone else recognizes that proper, proactive oversight of our intelligence agencies is long overdue – even the Conservatives of 10 years ago agreed. Wayne Easter, MP Liberal Public Safety critic

Writer: good reason for protesting Seniors dinner delightful Protesters believe Gold Trail Recycling didn’t get a fair shake Longtime resident presented with Community Achievement Award To the editor: This is a letter of thanks to the Rotary Club of 100 Mile House and Friends for another annual Seniors Dinner. The hall was electric with so many senior faces. The music, entertainment, decorations and the wonderful dinner, feast, were outstanding. To be recognized (Certificate of Appreciation for agricultural contribution) was an unexpected privilege. There are so many young and older supporters who will pick up the torch, or fork, and carry it proudly in support of healthy food and all agricultural ventures. As my friend and mother-in-law quoted: “Come what may What e’er befall The Farmer He will feed them all.” Wishing all a healthy and thankful season. Helen Horn 100 Mile House

Open letter to mayor and council: You say you heard the protesters loud and clear? Our concern was the contract for the curbside recycle program had already been awarded to Central Cariboo Disposal, or at least the decision to do so had been made. We knew Gold Trail Recycling had declined to bid and why. You say we didn’t have the correct information? I went to the District office twice and asked if this new program hurt Gold Trail Recycling and if the contract had been awarded prior to the survey and was told “No” for both questions. Gold Trail Recycling would have the opportunity to bid. You mention 90% of returned surveys were in favour of the

program, but what you didn’t say was that those 90% asked the same question as I did and were given the same answer as I was. Dave Mingo said he contacted protesters by e-mail, and once he explained things, “they warmed up.” Well, being one of the protesters and talking to 99% of the other protesters, I am not sure who he contacted. Mayor Campsall said the protesters were “flying off the handle.” We were angry a local business was passed over for the recycling program. Gold Trail declined to bid because it was given five days and incorrect requirements. Is voicing our concerns considered “flying off the handle?” Perhaps if you had held open meetings rather than “in-camera” meetings and asked those

affected, rather than trying to sneak it by without open and honest public consultation, we wouldn’t have had a reason to protest. You say Central Cariboo Disposal has strong local ties to the community. Well, I would like to let you know that Gold Trail Recycling is a business headquartered in the District of 100 Mile House and employs five full-time people in the community with the possibility of hiring more. Maybe the reason Central Cariboo Disposal is being awarded the contract is the fact you signed a five-year contract last year for the garbage disposal, which also included curbside recycling?

Here's the big idea of 2013 Sciences Association was the first to and pension arrangements look pretty good recommend acceptance of a five-year compared to the harsh reality of private agreement with only 5.5 per cent raises businesses competing in a global economy. guaranteed. Then they were joined by I asked Premier Christy Clark if this new negotiators for 51,000 health and social approach is inspired by private-sector profit services employees, represented sharing. She agreed that is the by the B.C. Government model. Employees’ Union (BCGEU) and “I think that’s a great principle other unions that have long been for all of us to work from,” Clark adversaries of the B.C. Liberals. said. John Fryer, negotiator for “Until now, the growth of public the BCGEU going back to sector wages has been completely the epic battles with Social insulated from changes in the Credit governments and now private sector. And this is the a professor at University of first time we’ve ever been able to Victoria, wasn’t impressed when successfully link those two things. Tom he heard the news. At this point, it’s still a small Fletcher “These deals reflect what increment wage growth, but it’s happens when public sector a big change, and I hope we can unions back the losing party continue to build on it.” in a provincial election,” he said. “Union From an employee perspective, it is bargaining power takes a trip down the indeed modest. If real gross domestic pooper.” product increases one per cent beyond the I think there’s more than that going independent forecast used in the provincial on. Perhaps today’s union leadership is budget, employees get an additional half of beginning to accept that its wage, benefit one per cent raise for that year.

BC VIEWS

ne of Canada’s great entrepreneurial success stories in recent years is WestJet, the Calgary-based airline that is expanding across the country and taking on European routes. Clive Beddoe, the founding CEO of Westjet, was famous for helping the cabin crew tidy up the plane before getting off a flight. And the company is also known for its profit-sharing program, with all employees referred to as “owners” who have a stake in the success of the operation. I thought of this management approach when news emerged that the B.C. Liberal government was offering public service unions a new kind of contract, with a five-year term and wage increases tied to improved economic growth. The surprising thing is that unions are accepting the idea, even though provincial growth must exceed the government’s independent economic forecast council projections before it can take effect in a given year. The generally non-militant Health

Jeanette McCrae 100 Mile House

Contrast this labour relations development with what’s happening on the federal scene. A classic confrontation is brewing between the Harper government and the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC). A key dispute is over sick days, which the government estimates are averaging 18 a year. PSAC currently has 15 “bankable” sick days a year, which the union president refers to as a “negotiated right.” It takes me back to my first union job, where I was warned never to take just one sick day. We negotiated for two at a time, so always take two, the union rep told me. Implicit in this is the mindset that employees should give as little and take as much as possible. Looking through my files each December for the B.C. story of the year, I consider what is likely to matter five or 10 years from now. This partnership approach to building the provincial economy is my pick for 2013. Tom Fletcher is legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press. Twitter: @ tomfletcherbc Email: tfletcher@blackpress.ca

A10

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

www.100milefreepress.net

Your

turn… How does Santa know if you have been naughty or nice?

Ethan Curll Grade 1

The elves watch from the workshop with a telescope to see if you are good or bad, and then they tell Santa.

Isaac Todd Grade 1

Jacob Anderson Kindergarten

He watches from his sleigh outside and he sees you with his telescope.

He looks through a window to see if your room is messy or clean.

Ryan Scorse Grade 3

He uses video surveillance. He comes at night and sneaks in your window to put a video camera on the ceiling, and he watches you.

What is the most important thing about Christmas? Kenny Reeves-Dodd Grade 6 It is the celebration with family so that we can be together and have a fun holiday.

Around

the province Bait sleds tempt thieves in Shuswap SALMON ARM - To anyone intent on trying their luck stealing a snowmobile in the Shuswap, Sicamous RCMP Sgt. Dave Dubnyk warns the odds are stacked against you. On Dec. 18, Dubnyk announced that over the winter, RCMP will plant ‘bait sleds’ in popular sledding areas along the Trans-Canada Highway – from the Shuswap to Golden – with a focus on curbing theft. Dubnyk said the Sicamous and Revelstoke detachments will be working alongside the RCMP’s Integrated Municipal Auto Crime Team, deploying a fleet of bait vehicles – sleds, trucks, trailers, etc. throughout the region. “We’re going to totally mix it up,” responded Dubnyk on what will happen where and when.

Suspects sought in missing/dead dog case QUESNEL - During the early morning hours of Dec. 13, Quesnel RCMP received a report of the theft of four dogs from a residence on Matthews Road. The homeowner called police after returning home to discover that an unknown suspect (s) had entered his residence and stolen four dogs from inside the home. The owner then utilized social media to spread the word about the missing dogs. Shortly after 4 a.m., passing motorists discovered one of the dogs, a Boxer, wandering off the Nazko Highway near the Slide Mountain area. After stopping to retrieve that dog, the motorists followed tracks in the area which lead them to two of the other dogs (both Boxers) which they located deceased but with no obvious signs of trauma. The fourth dog, a Daschund, has not yet been located. Anyone travelling on the Nazko Highway during the early morning hours Dec. 13 who observed anything suspicious is urged to call RCMP immediately.

Camille Barton Grade 5

I think it’s about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s the remembering, celebrating and getting together with family.

C apsule C omments We celebrate many birthdays in December. One that gets overlooked is Louis Pasteur, born on December 27, 1822. He was a French bacteriologist who created a process for sterilizing milk to kill pathogens that could cause disease. He also developed a preventive inoculation against rabies. This early work on immunization has saved millions of lives throughout the generations. The human liver is a wonderful organ. It is the only organ that has acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, the enzyme that breaks down alcohol. It does this job well at the rate of one standard drink per hour. Just a reminder, a standard drink is 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine or 1.5 oz of spirits. Had your flu shot yet? It’s not too late. Have your children inoculated too. Remember, you can’t catch the flu from the flu shot. The more people who get the flu shot, the less the virus will be spread. Coconut water has gotten much publicity lately. It is made from the clear water inside the coconut, not the coconut flesh from which we get coconut milk. Coconut water does contain some potassium (about 200mg per 100ml), is low in sodium and calories and contains primarily water which keeps you hydrated. All the staff of our pharmacy send our best wishes to you all for a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.

Dillon Wilson Grade 4

It’s about the giving. Because, it’s nice to give once in a while, especially for a special day like Christmas.

Jordyn Karl Grade 6

It is spending time with your family, even if you are living far away. You spend time together and give gifts.

From all of us at Donex

May the peace, joy and beauty of the holiday season be yours throughout the coming year. Merry Christmas

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100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

www.100milefreepress.net

A11

ICY DICEY DRIVING

Carole Rooney photo

Sliding semis and rolled or ditched passenger vehicles have been spotted almost routinely along highways and side roads under the slick driving conditions seen on-and-off over the past weeks. RCMP has been reminding drivers to slow down and ensure proper winter equipment is installed on their vehicles.

Final Policing and Community Safety Plan released Provides updates on 165 action items at the core of the draft system The final version of British Columbia’s long-term policing plan, released on Dec. 12, provides updates on 16 action items at the core of the draft version released in February for stakeholder and public feedback. The action items in the British Columbia Policing and Community safety Plan (BCPCSP) focus on modernizing the province’s policing and law enforcement framework over the next three, five and 10 years. Notable progress to date includes: • The announcement in November of a multiyear, expert-led process to examine how policing is currently funded and structured, to better define funding responsibilities at each level of government, and to lay the groundwork for exploring new service delivery models. • The appointment in September of a blue-ribbon panel that is now meeting to examine existing crimereduction initiatives and research from other

Canadian provinces and other countries. Regional Round-table consultation sessions with stakeholders will follow in 2014. • Pursuant to the recommendations of the Missing Women Commission of Inquiry, an analysis is underway of missing person’s legislation in other jurisdictions and an exploration of options for B.C. In addition, the values expressed in the final plan expanded to reflect the intent to strengthen relationships between police and First Nations. The plan notes renegotiation of the First Nation Policing Agreements is currently underway, with completion anticipated in March 2014. The finalized BCPCSP represents a promise made and kept, fulfilling Premier Christy Clark’s commitment to develop a long-term, strategic plan for policing in B.C. The plan is online at: www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/ policeser vices/publi

cations-index/do cs/ BCPolicingPlan.pdf. “ The British Columbia Policing and Community Safety Plan represents a promise made and promise kept: it fulfils Premier Christy Clark’s commitment to develop a long-term, strategic plan for policing,” says Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton. The plan will build on existing successes, including B.C.’s lowest crime rate in four decades and various tough and leading-edge approaches to specific safety concerns, such as our drinking and driving and excessive speeding laws, she adds. “The action items reflect a vision of police

better connected to the communities they serve and empowered to collaborate, share intelligence and communicate more effectively across jurisdictions. Ultimately, it’s about creating the safe and strong communities we want for ourselves and our families.” FAST bytes • The final BCPCSP is the culmination of extensive stakeholder and public engagement during 2012, which resulted in a draft plan released for further input and comment last February. • The plan is centred around five themes and, within them, 16 action items that will guide the

Did you move to the South Cariboo in 2013? Find the answers to all of your questions about the community at the South Cariboo Visitor Centre (log building at the corner of Airport Road and Highway 97)

OF THE SOUTH CARIBOO

1-800-222-TIPS

evolution of policing over the next three, five and 10 years. • Many of the action items identify more immediate steps that can be taken over the next few years, using existing resources. Other items are aspirational and will be completed as resources become available. • Consistent with the earlier draft, the final plan lays out facets of policing in B.C. today, including funding, structure and accountability mechanisms. It also includes appendices setting out the consultation and engagement process that informed the final plan, and covering milestones in the province’s policing history.

For more information, go to www. p s s g . g ov. b c . c a /

policeser vices/publi cations-index/do cs/ BCPolicingPlan.pdf.

SOUTH CARIBOO BUSINESS CENTRE

The Professional Centre Where You Find ONLY The Best!

475 Birch Ave., 100 Mile House

• Women’s Centre • Cariboo Therapy Centre • Grow Centre • Investor Group • Landquest Realty Corp. • Thompson Rivers University • 100 Mile Vision Care Centre • 100 Mile Dental Clinic • Dr. Rowse & Dr. Sheila Boehm - Chiropractors

• Dr. Christie Kronyk Chiropractor • Dawn Miller Accupuncturist • Burdick W. Smith Lawyer • Community Living BC • PMT Chartered Accountants • Axis Family Resources Ltd. • 100 Mile Massage Therapy • Cariboo Media • SPH Consultancy Please call for an appointment

DO YOU NEED IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE? Please call to make an appointment

• Skilled Workers Program • Student and Visitors Visa • Live-In Caregiver • Family Sponsorship • Citizenship

• Business Immigration • Temporary and Permanent Work Visa • Advise Employers on Work Visa Procedures • Appeal to Immigration Decisions

Shirley Palmer-Hunt, Certified Canadian Immigration Consultant

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100 Mile House Ph: 778-482-5556 Fax: 778-482-5557

in 100 Mile House. Find us on Facebook!

shirley@sphimmigrationservices.ca • www.sphimmigrationservices.ca

sponsored in part by

A20

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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Snowmobile club's Christmas party a lot of fun South Green Lake

from North Green Lake, who was drawn up in the spirit of Christmas, kindly donated his winnings back to the club to help pay for a much-needed trail groomer. Many thanks go to Santa’s hard-working helpers Pat Olsoff, Miriam Livingston and Cheryl Groves for putting this great night together and Frank Dixon for the beautiful tree.

Gail Potter

250-644-4242

gailpotter0@gmail.com

The clubhouse was packed for Green Lake Snowmobile Club Christmas Dinner and Dance on Dec. 14. Families of all ages enjoyed a wonderful night of singing Christmas songs and dancing to the music of The Classmates until 11 p.m. Santa’s helper Brandon Potter came to deliver presents and candy canes to the children and the potluck

Ken Alexander photo

Ella Peters, left, Makenna Siemens, London Anderson, Joel Peters and Alexis Anderson posed with Santa’s helper Brandon Potter at the Green Lake Snowmobile Club’s Christmas Dinner and Dance on Dec. 14.

feast was absolutely wonderful. Many donated gifts

New Year’s Eve Dance The club will be hosting a fun night of dancing with live music

FOTOS

If we covered your event, we have an extensive file of fotos and since we can only use a few in our or

Dues, volunteers welcome Snowmobile club president Peter McKie would like to remind our members, friends

Cariboo ChilCotin Partners for literaCy

were raffled off and the winner of the 50/50 draw, Mike Anderson

OUR FILES ARE FULL OF

by Jack Keough and friends on Dec. 31. Doors open at 9 p.m. and the party goes on until 1:30 a.m. Snacks will be provided and there is no charge to attend. Make sure you don’t miss celebrating the last day of 2013 with all your friends and neighbours. If you can help out, please call Jack at 250456-7725.

Bruce Mack - 250-392-6867 bruce@caribooliteracy.com President

Christmas is for relaxing and enjoying time with your family. The holiday season is the perfect time to sit and read with your family. Children love it when their parents read to them. By reading together you will create strong bonds and wonderful memories. Books make meaningful gifts that will entertain long after the holiday decorations have been put away. Become a LifeLong Learner

m o r f s a m t s i r h C y r Mer ! L P C C t a e n o y r e ev

Connector

Melody Newcombe - 250-791-5720 Operations Support Worker Janette Moller - 250-392-8161 Operations Manager Bruce Mack - 250-392-6867 CCPL President

The Cariboo

we have many more available for

REPRINTS in a variety of sizes.

Stop by to order at #3 536 Horse Lake Road, in the Pinkney Complex in 100 Mile House

Thanks to the Province of BC for our funding

and neighbours that everyone is welcome to join the club, even if you don’t ride a snowmobile. There are many fun family activities in store for the winter ahead and you don’t want to miss them. Check out the website greenlakesnow mobileclub.ca to find out what’s planned on the calendar. Volunteer help is always welcome for grooming the trails, not only for the club but for everyone who uses them. If you want to join

or need more information, please call Rita Dixon at 250-456-7529 or Art Groves at 250456-2112. Christmas wishes May the spirit of Christmas bring you peace, the gladness of Christmas bring you hope and the warmth of Christmas bring you love. The magic of the holidays never ends and it’s greatest gifts are my family and friends. I wish for you a Christmas filled with joyous holiday cheer and a happy New Year!

What’s On Here’s a convenient listing of upcoming arts, entertainment and cultural events by non-profit groups in the South Cariboo. To be included, call 250-395-2219 at least one week before the event.

• Dec. 24 – The 100 Mile United Church will be offering a Christmas Eve service at 7 p.m. The Christmas Story will be told in readings and hymns. All are welcome to come, hear and participate in the songs of Christmas. • Jan. 10-12 – The 21st Annual Cariboo Challenge (Jack Gawthorn Memorial Sled Dog Race) will be held at the 108 Mile Heritage Site. Racing features four-, six- and 10-dog teams, Ski Jouring and a Sportsman events. There will be vendors and on-site catering for breakfast and lunch. The Musher’s Dinner and Auction is at The Hills Health Ranch on Jan. 11. For more information, go to cariboochallengesled dograce.com, or call 250-791-5225. • Jan. 18 – The 14th Annual 100 Mile House Cowboy Concert starts with a matinee at 2 p.m. before an evening show at 7 p.m. at Martin Exeter Hall. The show features Jeremy Willis, Mag Mawhinney and Tim Hus. Tickets are $15 and available at Work n Play, 100 Mile Feed and Ranch Supply and The Log House Western Wear. For more information, contact 1-888763-2221.

YOUR COMMUNITY CONNECTION SOUTH CARIBOO VISITOR CENTRE We’re here for you!

Thanks to the Province of BC for our funding

www.caribooliteracy.com

MONDAY to FRIDAY - 9am to 5pm Phone: 250-395-5353 Fax: 250-395-4085

www.SouthCaribooTourism.ca email: southcaribootourism@dist100milehouse.bc.ca

Whatʻs happening at the…

YOUTH ZONE Proud Sponsor

e Drop In to the! n o Z th u o Y ! It’s FREE

We acknowledge the financial assistance of the Province of British Columbia.

Youth Zone will RE-OPEN on Jan. 2nd - noon - 4pm!

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

SCHOOL HOURS • Monday-Thursday OPEN 3-6pm • Fridays OPEN 3-8pm • Saturdays & Sundays CLOSED • AGES 12-18 YEARS OLD

The eyes have it Fetch a Friend from the SPCA today! spca.bc.ca

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

The Calendar

Community events listed must be of a non-profit nature and will be published free of charge one week prior to the event. Deadline for submissions is Friday at noon. Events for the online calendar can be submitted to the calendar feature on the home page at www.100milefreepress. net. However, online calendar submissions are not automatically picked up for the Free Press.

100 MILE q The 100 Mile and District Stamp Club meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month, 1-2:30 p.m., in the 100 Mile House Branch Library meeting room. Everyone is welcome, from beginners to experts. For more information, call Glenna at 250-3953661.

CLINTON q The Village of Clinton continues with its 150/50 anniversary celebrations with a New Year Celebration Dance at the Legion on Dec. 31. For more information, call 250459-2622. 100 MILE q The 100 Mile Pony Club will be conducting a Bottle Drive in the 100 Mile House area on Jan. 4 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to raise funds for Pony Club events and clinics. This is a not-for-profit club and members would greatly appreciate any contributions folks would like to make. For more information, contact Victoria at feist@live.ca or call 250-219-7442. 100 MILE q Would you like to become a South Cariboo Holiday Dinner Host – a new program that

www.100milefreepress.net

Chris Nickless photo

Grandma Lisa Dowe introduced little Jocelyn Dowe to Santa at the 108 Mall on Dec. 14. Santa’s bells seemed to be a big attraction.

matches local people with newcomers to the South Cariboo area for a one-time dining experience. You provide your time, community knowledge, and a home-cooked meal, and in return, you get the chance to learn about a new culture or connect with someone from your cultural background. To learn more, contact the Welcoming Communities co-ordinator Kimberly at kimberly@ caribooliteracy.com or phone 778-482-0090.

Karen Schuurman photo

Two month old Avery Caverly didn’t wake from her slumber to see Santa at the annual Lone Butte Community Christmas supper at the community. However, Avery’s mom, Kristine Taylor, appeared to be having a lot of fun.

100 MILE q The South Cariboo Food Security Committee is looking for non-perishable donations from the general public. For drop-off information, call Debbra at Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre at 250-3955155, or Rusty Martin at Loaves & Fishes Outreach at 250-3952708, or Sylvia Peniuk at the 100 Mile House & District Women’s Centre at 250-395-4093. 100 MILE q The Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre Early Years Program is accepting donations of nonperishable food items, including infant food and formula, baby wipes, winter maternity wear and infant winter wear, including snow suits and boots. Donations accepted Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 250-395-5155 for more information.

drop-in are held at the Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre (1-486 Birch Ave.) on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guest speakers present topics of interest to expectant mothers and families with children up to three years old. Call 250-395-5155 for more information. 100 MILE q The Mill Site/ Fischer Place Auxiliary meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in the boardroom at Mill Site. Call Shelly at 250-791-9277 for more information.

HORSE LAKE q StrongStart at Horse Lake Elementary School on Tuesdays 9 a.m.-noon, and on Wednesdays – dinner special, 4-7 p.m. Free, drop in and play. All families with children up to age five welcome. For information, call Kristina at 250-7919294, or the school at 250-395-4572. 100 MILE q The SPCA volunteer meetings will continue to be held in the Pioneer Room at the Creekside Seniors Activity Centre on the first Sunday of each month at 11 a.m.

100 MILE q The Caribou Brain Injury Society meets monthly, from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Health Centre beside 100 Mile District General Hospital. For information, phone 250-392-7772, e-mail wlcbis@gmail.com or check out the website at www.wlcbis.com. 100 MILE q The 100 Mile District General Hospital Auxiliary meets the first Wednesday of each month in the hospital’s multipurpose room at 1 p.m. The Gift Shop in the lobby is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., but is closed for lunch noon-1 p.m. For more information about the auxiliary or the gift shop, call Ruth at 250-395-1163 or e-mail w.i._Ruth@telus. net. 100 MILE q The Cariboo Artists’ Guild meets the first Tuesday of each

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month, downstairs at Parkside Art Gallery, beginning at noon. We are an informal group of aspiring and accomplished artists who exchange ideas and promote art. For more information, call Sharon at 250706-0111 or Kathy at 250-395-3725, or go to www.gobc.ca/ caribooartistsguild. 100 MILE q The La Leche League (breastfeeding support group) meets the first Thursday of the month at the Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre at 10 a.m. There is no charge. For more information, call Kristi at 250-396-7403, or Kris at 250-9454668. LAC LA HACHE q Lac la Hache Pioneer Centre (OAPO #176) has a meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m.; you must be 40+ years to be a member and there’s a $12 annual activity fee. Activities open to all: Monday: Square and round dancing at 1:30 p.m. Thursday: TOPS at 8:30 a.m. Friday: mixed pool and cards at 1 p.m. Every fourth Sunday is bluegrass jam sessions at 1 p.m., call Cal at 250-396-4989. For more information, contact Wendy at 250706-9937 or Frances at 250-396-4169.

WATCH LAKE q The Watch Lake-North Green Lake Volunteer Fire Department is in dire need of volunteers, or there is a possibility the department will be forced to close. For information about volunteering, call fire chief Andy Palaniak at 250-456-7460. 100 MILE q Prenatal/infant parent information sessions and lunch

Martina Dopf photo

The pre-school children from Our Place Child Care Center entertained the folks living at Carefree Manor with Christmas carols, including Jingle Bells, on Dec. 8.

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Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

www.100milefreepress.net

Ask the

EXPERTS Learn more from those who have the answers! Cameron Ross

Dr. Sheila Boehm

IT Specialist

Chiropractor

On behalf of the staff and families at Gold Rush Technologies, I would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy, prosperous New Year.

We thank

you for your support of our business through this past year and look forward to serving your technology needs in the future. Computer Sales: Custom Desktop PCs; Notebooks; Netbooks; Upgrades; Gaming Systems

#4 - 150 Birch Avenue 100 Mile House

Q: Does stress affect pain level? A:

What a great question over the busy holiday season! Stress is often likely to affect your discomfort and usually in a negative way. Whether we are excited and happy or sad and miserable as the holiday’s approach these reactions add to our bodies stress. I used to believe I would be less busy through the holidays as people are so busy getting ready but over the years I have come to see the opposite being true. This is one of our busiest times of the year, I think because people want to feel better over the holidays and they also need more help because of their stress. Lives are busy and hectic normally, but add this time of year and it really becomes a necessity to take care of yourself. Book your consultation today.

ChiropraCtiC assoCiates

Canada’s Mortgage Experts™

Toll Free 1-800-771-1688

If you are able to, the advantage is that you have control over your money, and the investments you choose. Once moved to a locked in plan, when both spouses have passed away, there may be money left over to pass on to your estate. With a pension, the income stops when the last spouse dies. Some people are interested in moving their pensions out because of fears of mismanagement of the funds, and the company not contributing to the pension plan to sustain it for future and current pensioners. However, before you decide to move money out, we can take the time to do a more detailed analysis, to help you determine the right path to choose.

Please read the prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Please seek professional advice prior to investing. All information provided is collected with care, and we are not responsible for any omissions or errors.

250-395-2900

Lawyer and Notary

Q: What do I need to know if I live

in British Columbia, but work out of province?

385 Cedar 100 Mile House

Branch Manager

Here are some examples for you:

Temporarily working in Alberta but are a legal resident of BC: - 183 days or less in a year - you may continue to use the valid registration and plates from BC. - Over 183 days you must register and insure your vehicle in Alberta Temporarily working in Saskatchewan but are a legal resident of BC: SK does not require non residents to register and licence their vehicle in SK unless you are becoming a permanent resident. No time limit applies. Temporarily working in Yukon but are a legal resident of BC: A client may operate their vehicle for up to 60 continuous days in Yukon without taking up residence.

Barton Insurance Brokers

Deanna Oenema, AMP

InvIs - The oenema Group

E&OE OAC

Is it a good idea to move your money out of a pension plan?

Douglas E. Dent

The Cariboo’s TrusTed MorTgage broker

250-395-1912

Nancy Pinder

deannaoenema@invis.ca

unit #4 - 215 Fourth street

Account Executive

250-395-4833

Mortgage Broker

A: Congratulations on your plan to pay off your home and enjoy your retirement debt free. You can take advantage of the prepayment features of your mortgage to pay it off sooner. Most Lenders allow you the ability to pay down a percentage of the mortgage each year, either on the anniversary date or at any time of year; as well as increasing each payment by a full double payment and an increase (of up to 15-20%) of the existing payment without penalty. Your Lender or a mortgage broker are happy to help you review your current mortgage to confirm the prepayments that you are allowed to make and help to plan the extra payments to ensure that you reach your goal of paying off your home. Mortgage Planning is a very important component of your retirement plan and we are here to help you to make the right decision. Call me with any questions!

Dave Simkins

#204-475 Birch Ave, 100 Mile House, BC

Deanna Oenema We are reviewing our Retirement Plan and would like to make sure we are Mortgage Free. Can we make extra payments on our Mortgage?

Please email your request to martina@100milefreepress.net

General and Family Practice

Ph: 205-395-9064 Fax: 250-395-9074

Do you have a question for our experts?

CARIBOO MALL 250-395-2481

COACH HOUSE SQUARE 250-395-2602

Q: I built a house for someone. I didn’t get the homeowner to sign for all the extras - but I was careful to make sure that a couple of my employees were there every time extras were discussed. Now the homeowner won’t pay for the extras - and my employees have just told me that they will not be able to swear on a Bible. What can I do? A: Of course, a lawyer will always tell you to get things in writing. The reality is that none of us gets everything in writing - not even lawyers. We all prefer to believe that we can trust people to be good to their word. There is another side to this reality question - sometimes even honest people can have business disputes and sometimes people need to go to court to find a solution to those disputes. As hard as it is for some people to accept, both sides in a court case might be perfectly honest people. Once people find themselves in court, they need to present evidence to support their case. Evidence comes from witnesses who testify “under oath.” There was a time when only people who would swear “on the Bible” could testify in an English Court. Now, however, we are permitted to “solemnly affirm” as well as swearing on a Bible. In theory, whether testimony is based on “swearing on the Bible” or “solemnly affirming,” there is a no difference - in either case, the evidence is given equal weight. Interestingly enough, there was a recent BC court case where a judge did not give the same weight to the testimony of a person who solemnly affirmed. It should be noted, however, that the BC Court of Appeal disagreed with that judge and overturned his decision. [R. v. T.R.J. [2013] BCCA 449] Article written by Centennial Law Corp. (Douglas E. Dent)

CENTENNIAL LAW

DOUGLAS E. DENT CAROLINE PLANT* CHRIS DUNSMORE

Lawyers & Notaries Public

#1 - 241 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House (Across from Fields) Telephone: 250-395-1080 Proudly providing legal services to the South Cariboo Wir sprechen deutsch • Nous parlons français

Come see our ground floor, smoke-free location. Wheelchair accessible. *On Maternity Leave

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

www.100milefreepress.net

Sports

Alongside the boys

FAST bytes

impression in a booming voice like someone is shouting down at the play from an arena seat. She says, “Others are like, ‘Why are you out on the ice’?” It’s just different opinions, Johnson explains. “You just have to deal with it and accept you’re different.” The feeling of being “different” is something the girls have a difficult time putting into words or completely committing to. Playing full-body contact with boys is different than playing with the noncontact girls’ teams they’ve played on in the past. At the same time, it’s still hockey and it’s still a team and they’re just two other players trying to put a puck in one net while keeping it out of another. So, it’s like the same for them – but different. It’s not without its challenges for the undersized girls. It is a physical game and Johnson, 17, and Mellott, turning 16 in December, are not what’s considered – maybe even the two

Salmon Arm has been selected as the host site for the 2014 Female U18 BC Cup, BC Hockey announced on Dec. 18. The event goes April 23-27 at the Shaw Centre in Salmon Arm. “The City of Salmon Arm, the Shuswap Recreation Society and Shaw Centre are very happy to once again be chosen as the host of the 2014 U18 Female BC Cup,” said David Knight of the Shuswap Recreation Society. BC Hockey’s Female U18 level is an opportunity for the top players in the province to train and compete at an elite level and is designed to emulate national and international competitions.

Girls mixing it up on 100 Mile House midget rep team Gaven Crites Free Press

Two figures are tinier than the rest when the 100 Mile House midget rep hockey team is on the ice. Much longer, too, is the hair that spills freely out the back of their helmets when they fly around the rink. Those are some differences, but neither matters that much really. Cassidy Mellott and Adriana Johnson are hockey players, and they handle themselves out there. It’s no big surprise the attitude about girls and hockey and hockey being a boys’ game has evolved over the years. Johnson and Mellott, the only girls on the Mayvin Plumbing and Heating midget team are examples of that. However, certain attitudes, although far from predominant, definitely still persist. Some people think it’s cool and great they’re doing what they’re doing, Johnson says, adding some people let her know she’s different out there. Johnson offers an

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added together – big bodies. Johnson was on the local peewee rep team a few years ago and there was hitting then. She was hurt “pretty bad” late in the season and stopped playing for the year. This is Johnson’s second season playing for the midget rep team. There’s always the risk of getting hurt again, but she’s less fearful now. “I hesitated a little bit to go in the corners [last season] because you can get smashed, but this year, I don’t know, I don’t really care as much because you’re going to get hit anyway.” Asked about that, Mellott is similarly nonchalant and matterof-fact. “It’s just part of the game. You get hit and you get up.” Mellott emphasizes the skill involved in the girls’ game. How, to get around “the hitting thing,” they need to be more creative with the puck and their positioning. “We have to find other ways to be nasty

Gaven Crites photos

Adriana Johnson, middle, is playing her last season of midget hockey in a full body check league.

Cassidy Mellott, left, played on a female hockey team in Prince George last year. This season she joined the 100 Mile House midget rep team, sponsored by Mayvin Plumbing & Heating.

to each other,” she says in jest. “But, there are some technical aspects that are a little bit different.” Mellott and Johnson agree the calibre of hockey this year is about the same as some of the all-girls teams they’ve played on in the past. There are some big girls on those teams, too, and it’s rough even without body-checking. 100 Mile House had planned to have a midget rep female team this year. They hosted tryouts but there were not enough committed players, and formed a recreational tournament team instead. There are girls’ regional teams in Prince George, Kamloops and Kelowna that Johnson and Mellott can or have previously joined in the past, but those teams are in Prince George, Kamloops and Kelowna, which means hours of driving

from 100 Mile House or moving away from home. Needless to say, it’s an expensive and time-consuming option, but it’s also been fun for them. Mellott played in Prince George last season. “It was a really cool experience for me,” she says, remembering a “crazy game” that went into four overtime periods and the bus trips with the team. It was fun hanging out with the girls, she adds. That isn’t to say their current team is a bad option for them. Johnson and Mellott grew up with a lot of the boys on the Mayvin squad. “They’re like brothers pretty much,” says Johnson, to which Mellott concurs. Both Johnson and Mellott – Grade 12 and 11 students respectively, at Peter Skene Ogden Secondary School – excel academically and

have scholarship and university plans in the near future. Johnson has already contacted different schools about their hockey teams and hopes to balance postsecondary scholastics and hockey next year. She will definitely try. “I don’t think I can ever not play hockey. I love playing hockey.” Mellott is also currently affiliated with the girls’ team in Prince George. They have a rule this year about players having to live there, though. If they call her up, she’ll play there, she says. However, she’s non-committal when asked which – boys or girls – type of hockey she likes best or which option is ideal for her. It’s tough to say because it’s not one or the other – it’s both, Mellott adds. “If I’m playing hockey, I’m happy.”

FEMALE HOCKEY

ROAD WARRIORS Following a short break around Christmas, the 100 Mile House Wranglers are back in action, on the road for three games, in early January. The Wranglers travel to Fernie on Jan. 3 before stopping in Creston on Jan. 4 and Kimberley on Jan. 5. The local Kootenay International Junior Hockey League team is back on home ice at the South Cariboo Rec. Centre when Kimberley visits on Jan. 10.

NEW LOGO CONTEST The 100 Mile Snowmobile Club is inviting people to get creative and enter its “new logo” contest – the winner will receive $150 in Snowmobile Bucks. All entries must include the club’s name and the deadline is Jan. 31. The winning logo will be announced on Feb. 12. Please send entries to brandersx@shaw.ca.

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Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

www.100milefreepress.net

New mascot part of Cariboo Challenge pedigree Malamutt to hand out treats at sled dog races at 108 Heritage Site Gaven Crites Free Press

100 Mile House has a new “best friend.”

Among the dozens of sled dog teams expected at the 108 Mile Heritage Site in January will be one canine

standing alone. They’re calling him “Malamutt” and he’s the new mascot of the Cariboo Challenge, home of the Jack Gawthorn Memorial Sled Dog Race. It’s suspected Malamutt is a cross between a St. Bernard and Alaskan Malamute. The mascot will be handing out dog treats and entertaining children at the Cariboo Challenge Jan. 10-12. Face painting, a marshmallow roast and an art contest are also on the agenda with respect to entertainment during the weekend. It’s the 21st anniversary of the popular race.

Here’s Something For Everyone On Your List

Would you support an AQUATIC facility in 100 Mile?

Let us! know

from…

southcaribooaquaticsociety.org John & Sue Code 250-395-1219 or Elaine Saunders 250-395-3542 Adv. Courtesy of 100 Mile House Free Press

Great Stocking Stuffers

the

Anytime, any road, anywhere…

WATCH FOR DEER

When you see one, there are usually more.

KEEP OUR CARRIERS

SAFE

KEEP YOUR DOG INSIDE ON PAPER DAYS

KEEP YOUR LIGHTS ON

Unlimited Pool, Gym AND Fitness Classes

YOU GET ALL THIS:

• Use of indoor pool, hot tubs, saunas and showers • All pool fitness classes (excluding Red Cross lessons) • One personal training session • All fitness classes 7 days per week • Use of fitness equipment - 11 cardio stations - 9 weight training conditioning machines - 9 stations with large selection of free weights • Discounted spa treatments • Discounted horseback riding

FOR ONLY… Our carriers will not deliver to your home if they are at all concerned about your dog or dogs.

in the 100 Mile Free Press every Wednesday. Flyer prices are in effect from Friday to Thursday weekly. If you did not receive your Canadian Tire flyer in the Free Press, please call 250-395-2219 Chris Nickless photo

Malamutt is the name of the new mascot for the Cariboo Challenge, home of the Jack Gawthorn Memorial Sled Dog Race, which runs at the 108 Mile Heritage Site, Jan. 10-12.

Visit Us On The Web:

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Golf Chits are redeemable till April 30 but after Jan. 1st, you will have to pay the new price of $892.50

108 RESORT To pay your golf dues, please see GOLF & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

250-791-5211

Chelsea in the Resort office MONDAYS & FRIDAYS only 10am to 2pm

SINGLE

$225

$325

$525

COUPLE

$325

$425

$725

FAMILY

$399

$525

$799

“A SPA PACKAGE”

Do you have something you’d like to talk about?

Give us a call at 250-706-9611 or info@caribooradio.com

We’re ‘LIVE’ 6am to 4pm Monday to Friday! Emergency Broadcast contact info 24-7 250-706-9611 24-7 volcanomittens@hotmail.com

E s r a e Y w e N m p 6 g n ti r Sta

All-Request New Year .00

12 mth

10 Ticket Pass $65 - Drop-in $10

‘36 Hours!’

Before Jan. 1 - $800 + tax = 840 After Jan. 1 - $850 + tax = $892.50 $

6mth

Send requests to info@caribooradio.com Post your requests on the poster on CaribooRadio.Com’s Facebook page

Before Dec. 30, 2013

hristmas A Very Merry NCew Year! and A Happy u Special Thank oYroters! To All Our Supp

Gift Certificates Make a great Christmas idea

• Spa Treatments • Fitness Classes

eeee’re OP

SKI and TUBE LIFT PASSES make GREAT Come and enjoy our GIFTS! Snow Park! plus 10 SLEIGHRIDES ee ee

Pay your golf dues S I TIME G BEFORE January 1st N RUNNI ! $ .00 T and SAVE 50 U O

THANK YOU!

3 mth

Look for the

CANADIAN TIRE FLYER

Please be sure your home is well-lit and keep your walkway or driveway clear of snow and ice.

to choose from for family fun!

791-5225 Hwy. 97, 108 Mile Ranch s r

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Gymnasts impress judge South Cariboo Rhythmic Gymnastics club members encouraged by results

Gaven Crites Free Press

Five local gymnasts got off to an impressive start in Victoria recently. The girls, members of the South Cariboo Rhythmic Gymnastics club, competed for their first time on Dec. 14, and they did a lot of the right things to earn great comments from the judge, says coach Sang-Hee Robinson. “The judge had the impression they were already competing [in the past]. They had a lot of professionalism. “They knew how to present themselves and they were just amazing. They had very good dance steps and expressions for their music.” She adds it was an encouraging and positive experience for the girls – Emily Glen, Jill McArthur, Sarah Robinson, Mikayla Julseth and CandiceRose Mapson. The girls did a Level 1 free routine, and earned medals for their performances. Next up is a Level 1 rope routine, as they start learning to incorporate different

Michaila Robinson photo

Members of the South Cariboo Rhythmic Gymnastics Club competed for the first time in Victoria on Dec. 14. They include Emily Glen, left, Jill McArthur, Sarah Robinson, Mikayla Julseth, Candice-Rose Mapson and coach SangHee Robinson.

apparatuses into their routines. “After that, they keep moving up from there.” Like any athlete in any sport, there’s always room to develop one’s skills, Robinson adds. “The first competition in your life is always nerve-racking. But now that’s done, they have to keep improving themselves.”

Be A

H T L A E H STAR

Following a break for the holidays, the girls will get back to prac-

tising at the 100 Mile House Elementary School gym and look-

ing ahead to a contest in Vernon in February, before a national competition in June at the University of Calgary. The local club members will be combining with a club in Victoria for that event. They’ll be travelling to the provincial capital every month to work on a large, 15-minute group routine in order to prepare for the summer contest in Alberta. Travelling for big national and international competitions is expensive, Robinson says, and the tiny club’s ability to fundraise is limited, so they’re looking for sponsors within the community. The club also has aspirations to compete in an international competition in Finland in 2015.

RED ROCK REMEMBERS Memorial Hockey Game Dec. 26 2pm FREE! Come out and visit friends and family and remember those who skate with us in spirit. For more information call Lee Hansen 250-791-5472

www.100milefreepress.net

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w w w w w w w w w w w w w w w w w Here’s what’s happening with w your Wranglers Hockey Team… w w w w w w w w Game Time 7pm • Doors Open 5:30pm w w Autograph session with Kristian Stead w •••••• w w w w w w w Game Time 7pm • Doors Open 5:30pm w w Autograph session with Lane van de Wetering w •••••• w w w w w w w Game Time 7pm • Doors Open 5:30pm w w Autograph session with Braeden St. Louis w •••••• w Adults $10 • Seniors (60+) & Students $8 w Kids 5 and under FREE w w w w w w w w w w w w w w w w w w w w This Wranglers Wrap Sponsored By: w w 250-395-2414 w HWY 97, w 100 MILE HOUSE w w w w w w w w Cappuccino Bar & Bistro 250-395-4644 • 150 Birch Ave., 100 Mile House w w Williams Lake and District w Credit Union w w 2 95B Cariboo Hwy 97 v Coach House Square v 250-395-4094 w w • All Games at the SC Rec Centre • w COME ON OUT AND BE A PART OF HISTORY! w Watch this weekly ad for more info w or phone 250-395-4344 w

WRAP

FRI., JAN. 10

KIMBERLEY DYNAMITERS VS WRANGLERS

FRI., JAN. 17

SICAMOUS EAGLES VS WRANGLERS

SAT., JAN. 18

FERNIE GHOSTRIDERS VS WRANGLERS

–WRANGLERS SCHEDULE – Jan. 3 Wranglers @ Fernie Jan. 4 Wranglers @ Creston Jan. 5 Wranglers @ Kimberley Jan. 10 Kimberley vs Wranglers Jan. 11 Wranglers @ Chase Jan. 17 Sicamous vs Wranglers Jan. 18 Fernie vs Wranglers

oose

o r t s i B

Come and check out our…

at Mt.Timothy

Snowmobilers Welcome!

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Merry Christmas to everyone

250 644-1555

HORSE LK./LONE BUTTE

Karen Schuurman

triumph750@bcwireless.com

I hope this last article for 2013 finds all “Lone Butte-ers” and their families thankful for the happenings of 2013 and filled with optimism looking into 2014. Christmas concert The Grinch couldn’t steal the Christmas spirit from Horse Lake Elementary School students, as they put on their annual concert performance for friends and parents on Dec. 19. While the mice were looking for the magic of Christmas, we heard a modern rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas, which included X-Box 1’s, HD TV’s, Canuck’s tickets and talking Furbys. We did a little Boogiewoogie Choo Chooing, and laughed at the antics students came up with in a song about the week before Christmas which mentioned various teachers. The handbell choir played a couple of num-

Karen Schuurman photo

The kindergarten/Grade 1 class sang several songs to close the Christmas concert at the Horse Lake Elementary School on Dec. 19.

bers and so did band members. Everyone was quite entertained with the efforts of students and teachers – good job! School is out The kids are out enjoying the break from math problems and history lessons. Take care watching for these young ones as they head out to play in the snow to enjoy the winter wonderland that we have. They will be back to school in the new year on Jan. 6. Start Up for Stitching The Other Unusual Talents gals are looking forward to the next year

of gatherings and will start up on Jan. 7 with a swap meet of craft and sewing supplies and knowledge, followed by a quilting for cancer session on Jan. 21. If this is a group you have looked at and wondered about, wonder no more and come out for a new year of fun with the girls. Give Pat McKay a call at 250395-2114 to find out more. McNally will be missed The Lone Butte Fire Department will miss the longtime member Gerry McNally who has officially handed in his resignation and

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

retirement from the department. It is a huge loss, as Gerry has been a great mentor, coach and stand-up citizen since first joining on Aug. 23, 1999. His wisdom and leadership qualities have benefited everyone in the department and the community since the day he signed up. Gerry has taken roles of captain, lieutenant, firefighter, driving instructor and others over the years. Captain Jon Grieve and all members wish Gerry the very best in the future and will truly miss him. Continued on A30

We Are Pleased To Announce…

Births

ratcliff

Big sisters Nevaeh and Karleena are proud to announce the arrival of baby brother Elijah Michah Ratcliff, born Oct. 19, 2013 weighing 6 lb. 1.8 oz. Proud parents are Michael and Addilyn Ratcliff.

Engagements

100 Mile hockey players hit the ice in honour of lost friends An annual memorial hockey game has really changed over the years, says organizer Lee Hansen. Instead of naming it after one person, they decided to call it the “Red Rock Remembers Memorial Game,” in honour of several friends and teammates from different levels of hockey in 100 Mile House who died throughout the years. A few names that might come to mind are Grant Law, Brent Henry and Terry Moore, but there are others. It’s sponsored by Red Rock Grill in 100 Mile House. Hansen says there are a number of players this year, about 14 per side. One team is alumni from the 100 Mile House Bears Hockey Club. That team, which formed in 2000 and played in the Central Interior

Hockey League and folded after five seasons, is made up of players between the ages of 18 and 45. They’re up against a younger squad of 100 Mile House talent, aged between about 18 and 25, including 100 Mile House Wranglers forwards Kevin Raimundo and Cole Zimmerman. During the holiday season is the perfect time for a game like this, Hansen adds. “Everybody comes to town for Christmas. With everybody growing up and having families, it’s tough to get time to get out and see everybody. If you have a game like this, everyone gets to come and watch a bit of hockey and visit each other.” Admission is free and the puck drops at 3 p.m. at the South Cariboo Rec. Centre on Dec. 26.

It’s FUN! It’s FREE! It’s !

indergym K d n a t r a t m Strongs OSED fro will be CL . 5th, 2014 n Dec. 21 - Ja olidays! H e h t r o f s Best Wishe FREE drop-in and play! All families with children up to age 5 welcome! Come play, sing, explore and have fun! 100 Mile House Elementary School Monday to Friday ~ 9am - noon Thursday Night Dinner 4pm-7pm Call the school 250-395-2258 or Shelly 250-395-9303 Forest Grove School Tuesday & Thursday ~ 9am - noon Call the school 250-397-2962 or Sheila 250-397-0011 Horse Lake School Tuesday ~ 9am - noon Wednesday Night Dinner ~ 4pm-7pm Call the school 250-395-4572 or Kristina 250-791-9294 Lac la Hache School Tuesday & Thursday ~ 9am - noon Call the school 250-396-7230 or Jennifer 250-791-6675 Mile 108 Elementary School Tuesday & Thursday ~ 9am - noon Call the school 250-791-5221 or Jackie 250-791-0004

palasty/johnson

Jessie and Dale Palasty of 100 Mile House, B.C., along with Marlyn Collins of Vancouver, B.C., and Dave Johnson of 100 Mile House, B.C., are pleased to announce the engagement of their children Christa Palasty and Brian Johnson. Wedding will be Aug. 23, 2014.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

We Want to tell the World

all about your happy announcement: birth - wedding - engagement - anniversary. On the last Wednesday of each month, we’ll publish your announcement.

And for only an additional $11.50 We will put your announcement on the internet! Just drop by the Free Press office in thePinkney Complex on Horse Lake Road anytime previous to the Thursday before the last Wednesday of the month.

100 Mile House Kindergym at the Community Hall Downtown Thursday ~ 9:45am - 11:45am Call Elke 250-395-1256 or Shelly 250-395-9303

Matters! For more information on any SD#27 early learning programs, please contact Shelly at 250-395-9303 or your local school.

School District # 27 Cariboo-Chilcotin

100 Mile House Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013 Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

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Your community. Your classifieds.

250.395.2219 fax 250.395.3939 email classieds@100milefreepress.net

Your Community Newspaper Since 1960 …Now Online!

WEBSITE: www.100milefreepress.net EMAIL: mail@100milefreepress.net

#3-536 PInkney Complex Horse Lake Road, Box 459 100 Mile House, B.C. V0K 2E0

250-395-2219 FAX: 250-395-3939 Office Hours: 8:30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY ADVERTISING DEADLINES Display Ads: Friday, noon Classified Display ads: Friday, 4pm Classified Word Ads: Monday, 2pm

ia INDEX IN BRIEF: Family Announcements Community Announcements Employment Service Guide Pets For Sale/Wanted Real Estate Rentals Automotive Legals

Advertisements should be read on the first publication date. We are not responsible for errors appearing beyond the first insertion. NO CASH REFUNDS AGREEMENT: It is agreed by any display or classified advertiser requesting space that the liability of the paper in the event that errors occur in the publishing of any advertisement shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for the portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect item only, and there will be no liability in any event beyond the amount paid for such advertisement. DISCRIMINATORY LEGISLATION: Advertisers are reminded that provincial legislation forbids the publication of any advertisement which discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, colour, nationality, ancestry, place of origin, or age unless the condition is justified by a bona fide requirement for the work involved. COPYRIGHT: Copyright and/ or property rights subsist in all editorial, photographic and advertising content appearing in any edition of the 100 Mile Free Press. Permission to reproduce wholly or in any part and in any form whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or technical process in a publication, must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any unauthorized reproduction will be subject to recourse in law. NO ADVERTISING ITEM WILL BE DISCLOSED TO ANYONE PRIOR TO PUBLICATION.

Announcements

Travel

In Memoriam In Loving Memory Of

Eleanor Donnelly

Employment

Timeshare

Ofce Support

Trades, Technical

Help Wanted

CANCEL YOUR Timeshare. No risk program. Stop mortgage and maintenance Payments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consultation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248.

EVENCE Ltd is a furniture supply company and we are looking for an administrative assistant for our busy office. This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail and good interpersonal skills. Duties include but are not limited to data entry, reception and production administration. The Successful candidate will: -Have strong analytical and communication skills, -Be a self-starter who is able to work with minimal supervision, -Have a sound knowledge of MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) Candidates with more than 2 years experience will be given preference.Salary is very attractive with other benefits attached. Please forward resume and cover letter to tass@offurntre.com for consideration.

JOURNEYMAN AUTOMOTIVE Service Technician(s) in Hanna Alberta. Hanna Chrysler Ltd. offers competitive wages, relocation allowance, negotiable depending on experience. Bright, modern shop. Full-time permanent with benefits. Friendly town just 2 hours from major urban centres. More info at: hannachrysler.ca. Fax 403-854-2845; Or send by email to: chrysler@telusplanet.net

Help Wanted

Feb. 28, 1934 - Jan. 1, 2006

Travel

When we remember your smile, It brightens our day, And thoughts of your warmth and love, Seem to soothe the way. Your gentle spirit is still with us, Though you are gone, Sunny days, cool breezes, Always for you, Mom. Sharon, Ruth & Families

Information

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

to the Free Press

JOB FINDER For further detail on this week’s job postings get in touch with us.

CENTURY PLAZA HOTEL Best Rates. 1.800.663.1818

ADVERTISE in the LARGEST OUTDOOR PUBLICATION IN BC The 2014-2016 BC Hunting Regulations Synopsis

Employment Business Opportunities TRAIN TO be an Apartment/Condominium Manager online! Graduates get access to all jobs posted with us. 33 years of success! Government certified. www.RMTI.ca or 1800-665-8339, 604-681-5456.

Help Wanted

Sitka Log Homes Has immediate full time positions available for:

• Experienced Log Home Builders • Experienced Sawyer • Multiple Trainee Positions

• Project Coordinator • Associate Advisor • Japanese Kitchen Manager • Prep &/OR Line Cook • Head Start Coordinator • Early Childhood Educator • Receptionist • Class 1 Driver • Haul Truck Driver • Log Load Operator • Natural Resources Referrals Coordinator • Counter Persons • Drywall & Installation Laborer • Carpenter/Framer • Refinish Technician • Collision Technician • Finance Assistant • Pharmacy Assistant • Executive Assistant • Coach Operator • Ski Instructors • Graphic Designer

COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

(basic construction experience required)

• Hand Peelers

250-395-5121 • 808 ALPINE AVE.

(just down from Sunrise Ford) • Website: www.hortonventures.com

Competitive wages and benefits. Contact Brad Johnson at 250-791-6683 or brad@sitkaloglomes.com

Job Posting: Project Coordinator The Opportunity The Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice is a Cariboo based innovation in health care, and part of a province-wide initiative designed to strengthen primary health care in B.C. Operating as a non-profit society, the Division aims to increase primary health care capacity, and improve patient and population health outcomes by developing and implementing programs and services that will positively impact Family Doctors and their patients. The Division is looking for an experienced Project Coordinator to develop Phase 1 of a Mental Health and Substance Use initiative as led by the Division’s Collaborative Services Committee. Outcomes to include a regional mental health client services Needs Analysis and a draft Action Plan. The Responsibility This exciting opportunity will require you as the successful candidate to develop, guide, facilitate and recommend processes to enable the Division to achieve its goals in the community. Some examples of the types of activities you will be accountable for, but not limited to, are: • Initiating and coordinating data collection and community engagement processes related to evaluating mental health care in the communities of 100 Mile House and Williams Lake; • Establishing and maintaining effective relations with varied regional mental health stakeholders and experts • Develop and project-manage an initiative aimed at improving Mental Health Services in the Cariboo area. • Liaising closely with the Division Mental Health Working Group, the Division Coordinator and the Division Board of Directors; preparing regular status updates including achievements, issues, plans and support requirements. The Project Coordinator will need to travel to Williams Lake and 100 Mile House to meet with physicians, staff and stakeholders. Required Qualifications, Skills and Experience: • A degree in mental health care or related discipline, or equivalent training and experience; • Minimum of 5 years experience in project management and/or consulting capacity preferably in the mental health field; • Proven ability to plan, lead, project manage and inspire positive change; • Excellent interpersonal, communication and group facilitation skills; • Experience working with Family Physicians; • Extensive experience completing research and needs analysis in non-profit organizations an asset.

FIND WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR EACH WEEK IN THE and

CLASSIFIEDS

#2-536 Horse Lake Road, (Pinkney Complex), 100 Mile House, BC Phone: 250-395-2219 Fax: 250-395-3939

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience on a contractual basis. Hours are negotiable but expect at least 20 hours per week over a 3 to 4 month period. To apply, please send your resume and covering letter to: cird@divisionsbc.ca Deadline for applications is 5:00 pm, January 3, 2014. We appreciate all applications but will contact only those selected to be interviewed.

www.100milefreepress.net

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Wednesday, December 2013 100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 201325,100 Mile House

Announcements

Services

Rentals

In Memoriam Gifts

Therapy Groups

Telephone Services

Homes for Rent

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS meetings in 100 Mile area: Mondays noon at #18 - 208 8th Street. Tuesdays, 8pm, 100 Mile United Church. Thursdays 7:30pm, 108 Community Centre. Sundays 7:30pm, south Cariboo Community Health Centre,rear entrance. 250-791-5286, 250395-4646, 250-395-6154, 250395-5368

DISCONNECTED PHONE? National Teleconnect home phone service. No one refused! Low monthly rate! Calling features and unlimited long distance available. Call National Teleconnect today! 1866-443-4408. or visit online: www.nationalteleconnect.com

Commercial/ Industrial

Memorial Donations The Canadian Cancer Society appreciates your generous support. Please send the name of the deceased, name/address of next of kin and name/ address of donor for tax receipt (VISA/MC accepted) to: Canadian Cancer Society, #300 - 500 Victoria St. Prince George, B.C. V2L 2J9 or Ph: 1-800-811-5666.

Financial Services 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.

Legal Services

Memorial donations to Shriners Hospital for Crippled Children can be sent to: 3550 Waybourne Way, Burnaby, B.C. V5G 3K9.

The South Cariboo Health Foundation welcomes memorial gifts in support of our local Acute and Residential Health Care facilities, as well as, Community Health projects and activities. Mail donations to: S.C. Health Foundation, Bag 399, 100 Mile House, B.C. V0K 2E0 or drop them off at the hospital. Donations can be made to the Gideons by phoning 1-888-482-4253, using your credit card. The Gideons will send a card to the bereaved, so have their address handy. For funeral display or other information, contact Pete Penner at 791-6302 Donations may be sent to 100 Mile House Mural Society, 6221 Aalton Road, 100 Mile House B.C. V0K 2E3

Therapy Groups ALANON - Does someone’’s drinking bother you? Meet with others who feel the same. Meet Thursdays, 8 pm at the Health Centre at the back of the Hospital. Contact 250-3954646

Mobile Homes & Pads

STEEL BUILDINGS/Metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-4572206 or visit us online at: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca TIRES: Set of four 215-75R15 M&S snow tires. Like new, only 1/2 season on them. $425 for the set. 250-791-6616, evenings.

Transportation

2 BDRM mobile #8 Park Dr. Estates, $650/mo. Call 250395-3268.

Homes for Rent 3 BDRM 14’ wide mobile in 100 Mile House. Wood & gas heat. FS, WD. Fenced yard. $700/mon. 250-397-2083. 3 BDRM house w/full basement on lge. lot in Forest Grove. F/S, W/D, DW, pets okay. $775. 250.320.6847

Cars - Sports & Imports

Carpentry/ Woodwork CARPENTER for HIRE: Foundations, framing, finishing and home maintenance. Free estimates. Keith 250-945-4497

Visit us on the web…

www.100milefreepress.net Drywall LAC LA HACHE Drywall Services John Paterson 250-396-7615

Maintenance Services SNOW PLOWING. (driveways) 250-791-9265 ask for Vic.

Rentals Apt/Condo for Rent BEAUTIFUL 2 bdrm ground floor in seniors’ complex, in Ashcroft. F/S, D/W, A/C, W/D, Gas fireplace. $650/mon. 250396-4334. CLINTON Bachelor suites for rent $400 per mo. include parking, laundry. Clean, bright, quiet renovated. Avail. Jan. 1st. Security deposit and references required. Email owner wkrueger@shaw.ca 604-8533410. ONE bedroom town $400/m two bedroom town $500/m - * 5 bedroom house * 5158 Perkins $950/m all plus utilities call GERHARD 250-706-9532 Century21 Seaside Realty Ltd PARKVIEW APTS: 1 BDRM apt for rent renovated, downtown 100 Mile. $550/mo, 2 bdrm $650, bachelor $450. Includes heat. (250)395-3660 or (250)706-9144

DIRECTORY ADVERTISE HERE FOR ONLY $41.19 PER WEEK (PLUS GST) - 12 WEEK CONTRACT Call the experts at

KINGSGATE EXCAVATING LARGE EQUIPMENT FLEET to handle most jobs

2001 Honda Accord V6 Auto Well Maintained Full Service History New Transmission with Transferrable 3 Yr. Warranty 4 Extra Summer tires w/rims Very Reliable Great Value

Misc. Wanted

$4000

(Bridge Lake Area)

1-250-852-1036

Misc. Wanted

• Landscaping and Lot Development • Land Clearing • Wetland Work • Demolitions • Gravel Materials & Hauling • Premium Mix Topsoil • Driveways • Basements

250-395-2311 982 Alpine, 100 Mile House

anted Most WContracting Ltd. General Contractor

Interior Renovations Custom Homes • Remodeling

Misc. Wanted Local Coin Collector Buying Collections, Olympic Gold & Silver Coins etc 778-281-0030 WANTED: Winchester Lever Action rifle and carbines. 250945-4321.

Prices to suit - top work to boot

Memorial donations to Heart and Stroke Foundation of BC & Yukon can be sent to: #203 - 635 Victoria Street, Kamloops, B.C. V2C 2B3.

Heavy Duty Machinery

Misc. for Sale

Memorial donations to the Canadian Diabetes Association can be sent to: 5363 Dawson Rd. 100 Mile House, B.C. V0K 2E1.

Memorial donations to the 100 Mile House SPCA can be sent to: Box 1948, 100 Mile House, B.C. V0K 2E0.

TED SAWYER: Firewood for sale. 250-395-3951

Firewood/Fuel

6298 MOOSE POINT DRIVE, across from Watch Lake Access, 2 bdrm house, gas fireplace, electric baseboard heaters, w/d, insulated hobby shop. $795/mth. 250-456-7503.

Duplex / 4 Plex 2 & 1 BDRM unit newly renovated, in 100 Mile. Call 250397-2041 for details. QUIET updated 1 bdrm $500. also avail 2 bdrm. $550. Laundry included. Gateway area. 250-395-2080.

Dresser TD15C Crawler Tractor (140 HP) for rent. $5,000/month. Coastal Pacific Equipment. 1(250)392-7755

Memorial donations to the 100 Mile House General District Hospital Auxiliary can be sent to: Box 851, 100 Mile House, B.C. V0K 2E0.

Memorial donations to the 100 Mile District Hospice Palliative Care Society can be sent to: Bag 399, 100 Mile House, B.C. V0K 2E0

Merchandise for Sale

1250 sq. ft. commercial retail space, street level in Rosewood Building in 100 Mile, for rent or lease. (Across from Donex). 250-396-7334 or 604530-4224.

Professional Services

Box 67, 100 Mile House B.C. V0K 2E0

BEFORE YOU SELL: • ASPEN • BIRCH • COTTONWOOD • PINE PULP LOGS Please call

NORM WILCOX

(250) 395-6218 (direct line) • (250) 395-6201 (fax)

Ofﬁce/Retail

Moving Or Starting A New Business? COMMERCIAL, RETAIL & OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE 500-10,000 sq. ft.

• Ralf Baechmann • Ph: 250-706-4706 www.most-wanted.ca

Big Country Storage Terminal Ltd. 44 Heated Units 65 Non-heated Units Freight Agents for: VanKam Freightways Clark Reefer

250-395-2447 Across from Ogden Sr. Sec. School

Box 115, 100 Mile House, BC V0K 2E0

• Quality Buildings • Good Locations Multiple Zoning • Lots of Parking

Call Maureen at

250-395-0462

L & A Development Corp.

youth against violence line

•Travel Trailers • 5th Wheels • Toy Haulers • Truck Campers • Tent Trailers • Cargo Trailers • Utility & Equipment Trailers

• Sales • Service & Repairs • Parts & Accessories • Secure Storage 5430 INDUSTRIAL FLATS RD. Open 6 days a 100 MILE HOUSE week! (At Hwy 97 & 24)

250-395-3090

Our Team Delivers!

24/7 - anonymous - confidential - in your language Are you in danger? Is someone you know being threatened? Want to make a difference?

Stand Up. Be Heard. Get help. Call the Youth Against Violence Line at 1-800-680-4264 and talk one-on-one to a YAV Line support worker 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or e-mail us at info@youthagainstviolenceline.com If you're in any way concerned about your safety or the safety of others, we can help. Anything you say is kept completely confidential and you remain totally anonymous - we don't have call display either. And, because the YAV Line is a multilingual service, we can talk to you in your language. Concerned parents, teachers, caregivers, service providers and others are also welcome to call for information and assistance. If you are in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1 or your local police department.

YOUTH AGAINST VIOLENCE LINE

1-800-680-4264 info@youthagainstviolenceline.com Stand up. Be heard. Get help.

250-791-5295 • READY-MIX CONCRETE • PUMP TRUCKS • • FORM RENTALS • CONCRETE BLOCKS • • CRUSHED AGGREGATE PRODUCTS •

TATTON STATION ROAD, 100 MILE HOUSE

Call me for print, online and ﬂyer advertising! Phone: 250-395-2219

Fax: 250-395-3939 martina@100milefreepress.net

Martina Dopf Consultation in English/German

#2 - 536 Horse Lake Rd. Pinkney Complex, 100 Mile House

100 Mile Freewww.100milefreepress.net Press Wednesday, DecemberA29 25, 2013 100 Mile House Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Professional Services

Transportation

Scrap Car Removal

Trucks & Vans

R DIRECTORY

FREE SCRAP CAR PICK UP*

100 Mile New & Used Auto Parts Ltd.

ADVERTISE HERE FOR ONLY 41.19 PER WEEK (PLUS GST) - 12 WEEK CONTRACT $

r d

Ğ o

Ɛ͕ o Ő d Ŭ

SANDERS REDI-MIX LTD. • CONCRETE/GRAVEL • • CONCRETE PUMPING • • SANDING & SNOWPLOWING •

“The Only Ministry of Environment Approved Scrap Car Recycler.”

250-395-1141

Toll Free: 1-877-395-1133

100mileautoparts@telus.net *Certain restrictions apply. Call for details

Trucks & Vans

250-395-3088

Located off Exeter Rd. Past Tim-Br Mart on McDermid Rd. 100 Mile House, BC

Premiu m Bottled Water on Tap!

Now Featuring Watkins Products We also offer Vacuum Sales, Parts and Repairs! 486-A Birch Ave. S. 100 Mile House, BC

ADVERTISE HERE and get results! Read weekly by over 12,000 of your potential customers. Just give us a call at

250-395-2219 Fax: 250-395-3939

Chris Nickless

KATCHMAR

Construction (1997) LTD.

Serving the Cariboo for over 40 years Snow Removal • Road Construction • Culvert & Gravel Sales • Site Preparation • Topsoil Sales • Rental Equipment • Large Fleet of Equipment

250-395-2385

Meridian Self Storage

(Formerly Resort Lakes Mini Storage, at HWY. 97 & 24)

• SAFE & SECURE STORAGE • MONITORED • FULLY ALARMED • U-HAUL DEALER • 7-DAY KEY PAD ACCESS PH: 250-395-2512 OR 250-395-3090

Call me for all your advertising needs. Phone: 250-395-2219

Fax: 250-395-3939 heather@100milefreepress.net

Small V8 5 Speed Manual Good on Gas Comes w/Bedliner Matching Canopy Wired for Trailer Set up for Camper Aftermarket AM/FM Radio USB Port 184,000 kms No accidents New Radiator, Tailpipe New Muffler Comes w/Blizzak Snow Tires w/85% Tread Left

Heather Nelson Advertising Consultant

#2 - 536 Horse Lake Rd. Pinkney Complex, 100 Mile House

1971 GMC 1/2 Ton 4X4 383 Stroker, low miles. Many extras, great shape. $16,000. ﬁrm Call (250)392-5787

2007 GMC Canyon SLE Quad Cab, 4x4, 3.5L engine, auto, 167,500 kms. Excellent condition. Only selling as I have upgraded. Great fuel economy. Studded snow tires in VG condition. Interior is immaculate with no rips or tears. This is a full load truck (except leather) and everything works good. Asking $12,250. 250-706-7434

Tenders

A29

Tenders

Cariboo Regional District

INVITATION TO

TENDER D

dŚĞ ariboo ZĞŐioŶaů iƐƚricƚ iƐ accĞƉƟŶŐ ƚĞŶdĞrƐ Ĩor ŵaiŶƚĞŶaŶcĞ oĨ ĮrĞ ŚǇdraŶƚƐ ƚŚaƚ arĞ owŶĞd aŶd oƉĞraƚĞd bǇ ƚŚĞ ariboo ZĞŐioŶaů iƐƚricƚ. dĞŶdĞr docƵŵĞŶƚƐ aŶd ĨƵrƚŚĞr dĞƚaiůƐ arĞ aǀaiůabůĞ Ĩroŵ ƚŚĞ ƵŶdĞrƐiŐŶĞd. oŵƉůĞƚĞd ƉroƉoƐaůƐ arĞ ƚo bĞ dĞůiǀĞrĞd Ŷo ůaƚĞr ƚŚaŶ Ϯ͗ϬϬ Ɖŵ͕ :aŶƵarǇ ϭϱ͕ ϮϬϭϰ ƚo ƚŚĞ addrĞƐƐ bĞůow. ^ĞůĞcƟoŶ wiůů bĞ baƐĞd ƵƉoŶ ƐƵcŚ ĨacƚorƐ aƐ ƋƵaůiĮcaƟoŶƐ͕ ĞǆƉĞriĞŶcĞ ;ĞƐƉĞciaůůǇ oŶ Ɛiŵiůar ƉroũĞcƚƐͿ͕ abiůiƚǇ ƚo ƉĞrĨorŵ ƚŚĞ coŶƚracƚ accordiŶŐ ƚo iƚƐ ƚĞrŵƐ ;iŶcůƵdiŶŐ ƟŵiŶŐ rĞƋƵirĞŵĞŶƚƐͿ͕ aǀaiůabiůiƚǇ oĨ coŶƚracƚorƐ͛ worŬĨorcĞ aŶd ƐƵbcoŶƚracƚorƐ͕ iĨ aƉƉůicabůĞ͕ rĞƉƵƚaƟoŶ Ĩor ƋƵaůiƚǇ oĨ worŬ aŶd Ĩor ƟŵĞůiŶĞƐƐ͕ ĮŶaŶciaů ƐƚabiůiƚǇ oĨ Įrŵ͕ aŶd coƐƚ.

How to make your car disappear… CALL

250-395-2219

Mitch J. Minchau ManaŐĞr oĨ nǀironŵĞntaů ^ĞrǀicĞƐ ^uitĞ ͕ ϭϴϬ Eorth ϯrd ǀĞnuĞ tiůůiaŵƐ >aŬĞ͕ sϮ' Ϯ ϰ WhonĞ͗ ϮϱϬͲϯϵϮͲϯϯϱϭ ϭͲϴϬϬͲϲϲϱͲϭϲϯϲ

building communities together

Canadian Mental Health Association provides tips for holiday peace of mind

Holiday peace of mind tips If you’re entertaining, use the “keep it simple” strategy. Try menus you can make ahead of time or at least partially prepare and freeze. Decorate, cook, shop, or do whatever’s on your list in advance, and then relax and enjoy visiting friends, relatives and co-workers. • As much as possible, organize and delegate. In many families, moms do most of the holiday preparations. Have a “family meeting” and

make a commitment to care about mom’s mental health and share tasks. Rather than one person cooking the whole family meal, ask different family members or friends to bring a dish. If it’s hard to choose between activities, rotate outings every two or three years. • Having a few too many glasses of egg nog can dampen your holiday spirit since alcohol is a depressant. Too much fruitcake and too little exercise will probably make you feel lethargic, tired, and guilty come Boxing Day. Exercising as a family to work out excess energy and stress is a great activity to schedule during hectic weeks. Get enough sleep to keep you healthy through this busy time of year. • Finances are still a great stressor for many people. Eliminate the unnecessary, set a budget, and stay within it. A call, a visit or a note to tell someone how important they are to you can be as touching as and more meaningful than a gift. You can also enjoy free activities like walking or driving around to look at holiday decorations, going

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Suggestions offered for yuletide

The holiday season is a time many of us look forward to – sometimes with anticipation and sometimes with dread. However, the typical holiday pressures of more decisions, more cooking and cleaning, more decorating and entertaining mean less time to look after our own health and wellbeing. Peace on Earth may seem impossible if folks don’t have peace of mind. The Canadian Mental Health Association’s British Columbia Division (CMHA) suggests some of the best ways to deal with added stress around the holiday season are common sense strategies.

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window shopping without buying, or making your own decorations or presents. • Whether it’s the usual holiday advertising that creates a picture the holidays are about shiny new toys and gift giving, remember this season is really about sharing, loving and time spent with family and loved ones. Develop your own meaningful family traditions that don’t have to cost a lot of money. Fun or silly things to do, games or movies that make you laugh, playing with pets and time alone or with a partner are all good ways to reduce stress. • If you only have few family or friends, reach out to neighbours. Find ways to spend the holidays with other people. If you’re part of a family gathering, invite someone you know is alone to your gathering. • Attend diverse cultural events with family and friends. Help out at a local food bank or another community organization. Lend your voice to a cause you care about. Go through closets and donate clothes and toys, or whatever

you can afford. • Try putting family members and partners’ names in a hat and buy one gift for the person you draw; this can help reduce expenses and refocus energies on thoughtfulness, creativity and truly personal gifts. Encourage children to make gifts for friends and relatives, so the focus is on giving rather than buying. • Some people get the winter blahs each year, and a much smaller number develop seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Paying attention to nutrition, exercise and sleep and being careful with alcohol are also important if you have a history of depression. If your low mood carries on into the new year and starts

to affect your daily life, you should see your family doctor. If you’re not sure if you need to get help, try the selftests at Heretohelp. bc.ca. If the holidays often get you down, you may struggle with stress, low mood and worry at other times of year. CMHA offers two effective, low- to no-cost programs where you can develop skills to better manage problems, practice healthy thinking, and build confidence. Living Life to the Full is a fun group course, while Bounce Back can be completed individually with help from a telephone coach. For more information, take a look at www.llttf.ca or www. bouncebackbc.ca.

Be A

HEALTH STAR

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Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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Spread joy, not germs, this holiday season

Living Well Health tips… for your whole life. By Kevin Touchet For many, the holiday season is a time to enjoy good company and good food. As we spread the joy of the season we need to be extra careful to not spread food-borne illness causing bacteria. These simple food safety tips will help you prepare a safe and tasty

Interior Health

holiday meal: • Keep fresh turkey refrigerated no longer than three days before cooking. There are three ways to thaw frozen turkey in its wrapper: • Under cold running water (one hour per pound) • In a clean sink full of cold water, changing the water every couple

of hours • In the fridge (five hours per pound) • Thawing poultry at room temperature is not recommended because it allows harmful bacteria to grow. • Keep other items, especially those with meat, seafood, dairy, eggs or other moist, protein-rich foods chilled until served.

faces well before prep work begins. Once the preparation work is done, clean surfaces in hot soapy water, rinse and then sanitize. Sanitizing can be done with a diluted bleach solution (30 ml of bleach per gallon of water) that is allowed to sit for two minutes. Wash your hands well after cleaning the cutting board and before and after working with any new menu items.

Wash often • Wash your hands, utensils and work sur-

Avoid cross contamination • Store raw meat away from food that is ready-to-eat, including fruit and vegetables (and be sure to wash these thoroughly before serving). Turkeys should be wrapped well and stored on the lowest shelf of your fridge or in the meat keeper to keep blood and juices from contaminating other food. Ensure only clean uten-

Common sense safety awareness

Unlike some tacky Christmas sweaters, safety never goes out of style. Here are some simple, timely tips and reminders to help you and your loved ones stay safe over the holidays.

sumption so you can fresh-cut tree, check for • Use Canadian trical sockets, and never be aware of how much freshness by tapping it Standards Association string more than three your guests are drink- on the ground. Dropping (CSA) approved lights. sets of lights per single ing. needles indicate a dry, Use indoor and outdoor extension cord. • Greet all guests on highly flammable tree, lights in their respective arrival and see them so look for a fresher tree environments. Fireplace out, taking the oppor- instead. • New or old, check • Make sure the chimtunity to assess their • Place your live tree light strings for bro- ney damper is open and condition. away from fireplaces, ken or cracked sockets, clean before you light • When preparing for woodstoves and radiaor bare wires, a fire. 9 95-221frayed 0) 3dries (25heat one:Indoor Holiday entertaining the big dinner, defrost Ph tors. or loose connections. • Remove all decoS turkey in the refrig- out fresh trees, ESthe R P • Regardless of so be Make sure you do this rations that could be E 0 E X R 0 F X E 0 C X 00 MILyou are a guest erator. 1whether X, Bto XXXsure replenish the inspection before put- burned around the fireor the host, make sure • Don’t leave per- tree-stand with water ting lights up. place. Fax: everyone has a safe ride ishable foods at room every day. • Turn off all lights • Do not burn wrap9 1 2 -2 5 9 (250) 3 ed By: RequestDon’t home. drink and temperature for more Ph•onIfe: you’re buying when you go to bed or ping papers in the 39 the house. The fireplace. A flash fire D 395-39leave drive. than two hours. an artificial (2 tree, 50)make DONNA LAN Fax: et • If you are hosting, efreepress.n sure it has a label indi- lights could short out may result, as wrap100moril s@drink, fiedto choose Christmas tree cating that it is fire and start a fire. pings ignite suddenly classinot 1 limit your alcohol con• If you are getting a resistant. Although this • Don’t overload elecand burn intensely. s: rt se s In of an Nb. Trucks & V 0 not mean 01does /2 1 the tree /2 4 0 End Date: won’t catch fire, the /2010 tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly. $0.00 Mile • If you are using Balance: e 1 of 1 tinsel, .0try 0 to keep it Pagfor these local can’t do it without you 0 0 From A26 $ Taxes: toward the top of the flyers in this week’s and I sincerely thank $0.00 tree, out of reach of Whirlwind year you all. pets and small children. I think it would be I wish you and Tinsel can be dangerous safe to say 2013 has def- yours all the best this • Pharmasave if ingested. initely been a whirlwind Christmas season and Christmas lights • Andres Electronic Experts year for me; however, for the new year! I was able to make a lot of great memories with family and friends along the way. Sell your vehicle in the Free Press and Cariboo Connector classifieds In the midst of all my wild and crazy excurtimes a week for weeks sions this year, I have attempted to keep you, the readers, informed on what is happening here in Lone Butte. I advertise it Plus GSt thank everyone for for only Prepayment Required LF TON your support this past 1999 GMC HAEED Just bring in your picture 4X4 5 SP year and your forgivePrivate Party ads only (non-commercial) under n, itio nd co nt lle Exce ness and understanding r seats, Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Vans, ATVs, Snowmobiles, etc. low kms, leatheCD player, s, when I have messed power window, no rust! One (1) item per advertisement please. int new pa things up, or missed All advertisements must be prepaid. Private party only. No refunds. o $12,000.00 ob them altogether. I want to let you Charge by phone # know I truly appreciate phone the input I receive from 250-395-2219 you that enables me to classifieds@100milefreepress.net put things together here on a bi-weekly basis. I

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sils and cutting boards are used. Use a separate cutting board to prepare raw meat. Wash hands after handling any raw foods and minimize hand contact during final preparation steps. Cook well • For turkey, set the oven at no lower than 350 F (177 C) and cook for about 20 minutes per pound. Use a good meat thermometer to measure the turkey’s internal temperature and ensure it’s safe to eat. All parts of the bird including stuffing, should be at least 165 F (74 C) when removed from the oven. Health Canada recommends an internal temperature of 185 F (85 C) at the thickest part of the meat as addi-

tional assurance. Check the temperature in several places to be sure. Cooked food should be kept at 140 F (60 C) while waiting to serve. Refrigerate Chill food immediately after returning from the store and soon after dinner is completed. Perishable food should be placed in the refrigerator within two hours of being removed from the oven. Refrigerate at 40 F (4 C) or in a freezer at 0 F (-18 C). Health Canada recommends refrigerating leftovers for no more then two to three days. Put them in the freezer in order to keep them longer. Kevin Touchet is the manager of Environmental Health with Interior Health.

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Obituaries Mcphail

Mary Gertrude Mary Gertrude McPhail was born on Jan 25,1915 and passed on Dec. 15, 2013. She was predeceased by her husband Peter in 1995. Mary is survived by her son, David (Anne), grandson Alan (Lori), granddaughter Cathie (Pete) and her greatgrandchildren. Peter and Mary enjoyed summers at Pavilion Lake, B.C. and winters in Palm Desert. Mary lived in 100 Mile House before moving to White Rock two years ago. She missed her wonderful neighbours and friends she knew in 100 Mile House. May she rest in peace.

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100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

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Welcome to the driver’s seat

Visit our photo galleries at DrivewayBC.ca

Santa looking to swap outdated ride for super economy sleigh NORTH POLE - Driveway can exclusively reveal that Santa Claus has been visiting local dealerships kicking tires—ahem, rails—in his search for a new ride. Ever conscious of the increasing cost of gas and effect his multi-million-kilometre Christmas flight has on the environment, Santa seems to have opted for 2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon for his next sleigh. The wagon promises a fuel economy of 7.84 L/100 kms fuel economy,which means the sleigh will be kinder to the environment than his current means of transporting gifts to the world’s children. As an added benefit, the EcoBoost engine – which is finely tuned for high-speed performance – would offer speeds much faster than Santa ever travelled in his former 36-hoofpowered sleigh. The expected upgrade comes as a record number of children earn spots on the “nice” list, increasing the payload weight of his bag of gifts beyond the normal tow rating of his nine-reindeer team. Santa told me that changing his mode of transportation will not compromise his ability to remain true to his mission. “My goal is and always has been

giving presents to good the nine reindeer look girls and boys, and a new forward to some time sleigh will make that off. Every year, the process more effective,” flying animals travel he says. “Let’s face it, 200,194,557 kms and every year there are more they’d like some time to children who earn presrest, he says, explaining ents. Things are simply there are still splinters getting out of control, embedded in his hoofs and my old sleigh just from a particular wooden My goal is and isn’t going to be able to roof in northern BC. always has been hack it much longer. With “You really can’t beat giving presents to the new sleigh, I will be this new sleigh,” says able to travel faster and good girls and boys, Goddard. “It offers carry more toys.” and a new sleigh will outstanding fuel econFord engineers develomy without sacrificing oped the Transit Connect make that process power. It even offers more effective. Wagon sleigh concept an electric windshield weeks after hearing of defroster, making short Santa Santa’s dilemma during work of icy windshields cold weather testing in in wintry conditions. So, the North Pole. if there’s a foggy Christmas Eve, we “This is a winning situation for all,” won’t need a red-nosed reindeer to says Darren Goddard, chief engineer guide Santa around the world.” for Ford Transit Connect Wagon. “The Some extras appear to have swung increased efficiency means added time Santa in the direction of the Transit for Santa to enjoy milk and cookies at Connect. SYNC with MyFord Touch stops. His new ride will offer 100 cubic offers a touch screen display with feet of cargo space and versatility to navigation so Santa can easily find haul up to 2,000 pounds, which Santa all the good children, even in more will need.” remote areas. Reindeer spokesperson Dasher says The child observation mirror would

‘‘

’’

Question

allow him to keep a close eye on his gifts in the second and third row. From its 60/40 three-passenger second-row bench seat through fold-flat second- and third-row seating with third-row independent fore-and-aft sliding capability, the wagon quickly adapts to accommodate multiple combinations of elves and presents. The MyKey programmable ignition key restricts maximum speed should a mischievous elf get behind the wheel while Claus is down a chimney leaving gifts. With eight cupholders, Claus and his elves would have plenty of space to take along a few glasses of milk as they continue through their busy night. Rain-sensing wipers would keep Claus on the move, as there’s always a chance he’ll encounter nasty weather. “As always, we are busy making toys and checking long lists,” says Santa. “That said, Merry Christmas to all!” Of course, Mrs. Claus will have the final say on this purchase because, as any dealership owner will tell you, women make the final decision in 80 per cent of new vehicle purchases. Keep your eyes peeled Tuesday night to see if Santa got his Christmas wish.

OF THE WEEK:

Santa is looking for a new ride. Which new vehicle would you like him to deliver to you?

QUESTION OF THE WEEK!

Go to drivewayBC.ca to submit your answer.

Safety Tip: If you’re travelling across our province to spend time with family this holiday season, be realistic about travel times and check out the road conditions via DriveBC.ca ahead of time so you can prepare yourself and your vehicle for any challenging weather you may encounter.

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Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

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South Cariboo Elementary School students share some drawings about what Christmas means to them.

Logan Richards Horse Lake Elementary School

Presley Sims, Grade 2 Bridge Lake Elementary

Arlene Lac la Hache Elementary School

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Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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The Warmth of snow

By Glenna Metchette Silent and soft and slow descended the snow on Christmas morning when I was born. My mother smiled warmly and said, “She’s a snowflake – a tiny miracle of nature – a winter’s butterfly.” Like a snowflake, I drifted through the rites of passage in a lacy white baptismal gown, a fluffy white confirmation dress, and a virginal white bridal gown. Our honeymoon began in a blizzard, but we wrapped ourselves in a warm cocoon of love. My life has been defined by the surprise of snow. “How can it snow when it’s so cold?” I asked my husband as the temperature plummeted. “You’d better pick up the kids from the school dance before it gets too deep.” A few minutes later a spectral form appeared at the door holding our truck’s gear shift. “It snapped in two in the brittle cold,” he said. Surprised again when snowdrifts cumbered our untracked road. “Look out!” I yelled as a moose loped across the road in front of our truck. We slithered to a stop

just as its calf crossed in front of us. It leapt over the bank, somersaulted and disappeared in a huge drift. “It’s buried!” screamed the kids. “It’ll suffocate and die!” Dad grabbed the

shovel. We rushed over the bank, dropping into waistdeep snow. Digging frantically, we freed the calf only to face its irritated mother. Imprisoned in the deep snow, we simply stared and spoke softly to her. A snowflake fell upon her raging eye and melted into a tear. Nuzzled by her calf, she turned away and ploughed through the drifts. Like families, snowflakes are fragile but

strong when they stick together. After opening our presents Christmas morning, my husband said, “It’s a perfect day for a cross-country ski through the woods and across the lake.” Our ski tips, cushioned by pillows of powder, surfaced and plunged under that feathery quilt as billows of snow whisked off our knees. It was a peaceful world of stark contrast. Our ethereal shadows played amidst the gauntlet of black trunks lining the trail. The air was cold and sharp, our breath steaming puffs. Our hearts lifted in awe and praise, overjoyed to be together in this place and time. Out onto the lake, sunlight blazoned our vision. Ice crystals danced over the sawtooth pines encircling the spring-fed lake. Our children’s laughter and the susurrus of swishing skis filled the air as I broke trail on the way home. Crack! I was sinking. Water covered my skis and filled my

boots. “Don’t stop! Keep moving!” shouted my husband. I pushed leaden feet forward. Crack! I sank again, then hit a solid layer of ice and cried with relief. Like Olympians, we spurted the last hun-

dred yards home. My family is the snowflakes of my life. Let them blow in my direction. Each is unique and beautiful and brings warmth to my world. Snowflakes remind me that Christmas

100 Mile House & Area

is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand, and for a talk beside the fire. It is the time for home. Glenna Metchette is a member of the South Cariboo Writers’ Guild.

Here are the answers to the December 20 Cariboo Connector ‘Challenge Yourself’ Page.

CROSSWORD

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9am & 11am Sunday Service 7:30pm Wednesday - Youth Church Huge Kids’ Ministry Pastor Rick Barker Church 250-791-5532 Church email: info@cclf.ca Website: www.cclf.ca

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100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

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Christmas Greetings 2013

“In the eyes of children we find the joy of Christmas. In their hearts we find its meaning.” Leland Thomas

Special Supplement to the

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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Christmas Down Under By Peter Hart

here we were, deep in the bush of Western Australian, together for Christmas in the most unlikely of circumstances. It was 2002. Sheila and I had flown out of Ottawa, through Calgary, Los Angeles and Auckland to reach Perth on the far western tip of Australia, 27 hours of flying, across the date line into tomorrow. Our daughter, Elizabeth, with her husband, Dennis, and two children came the other way, from the Middle East where they worked, through Dubai, the youngsters Dylan, 4, and Megan, 6, already veteran travellers. Decompression from the long flight was a pleasure. Up at 5 a.m., pick up the morning paper and a large press of rich Aussie coffee, and sit on the bluffs above the ocean beaches watching the surf casters, joggers, and mothers with strollers enjoying the early morning sun of high summer. Then nap. Eventually, the family pried me out of there. We rented a couple of cars and

Submitted photo

Grandpa Peter Hart enjoyed his first Christmas in Australia with his grandchildren, Dylan and Megan. They all enjoyed the turkey on the barbecue.

headed north on a long loop that would take us as far as the iron mines of the Kimberley before looping back south through the searingly hot outback to the temperate forests of the Southwest. There were adventures

along the way in this beautiful and prosperous land, but it was what was about to follow on Christmas that I want to tell you about. We settled in a cabin in the forest at One Tree Bridge on the Donnelly River halfway between

Family Fun

By Erricka Archie Eliza Archie Memorial School During winter, my family and I like to make snowmen at the park in town. Once we made a snowman that was so big I couldn’t put the head on. My dad had to put it on for me. After we made a snowman, we slide down the hill. When we are all cold and tired, we go home and have hot chocolate to warm up. We all settle down in the living room to watch movies.

Nannup and Manjimup. In days past, this was a booming logging area. Mammoth Karri trees had grown there. They were felled with some difficulty and dragged to the mills by narrow gauge rail, one log to the railcar. And one log

to make the bridge as well, hence the name, One Tree Bridge. We were quite alone there in the Aussie bush, surrounded by wonders, but we yearned for the familiar things of Christmas and the experience with each other of the deep and wonderful mystery of the reality we were about to celebrate. We made a last run into Manjimup to see what could be had of familiar Christmas things. Cookie fixings and some sparklers were easy, but the turkey was a tough find. Australians are more in the habit of celebrating with sea food than poultry. We found one lonely turkey breast, kitted out for roasting. Sheila got the kids rolling out dough and baking in the tiny oven. That evening, we sat outside in the clearing listening to the night birds. Kookaburras loved that place along the creek, and with peals of their insane laughter, they worked their way along eating gum nuts

Family and friends

By Connor William Eliza Archie Memorial School Last year, I went to the community dinner. My family went and my friends were there, too. Decorations filled the gym with garland, balloons, and the lights were bright. There was a big tree and music playing. I had fun. Santa was there and Sonny was there, too. There were lots of people there. The dinner was wonderful.

elcome dear readers to the 2013 edition of our Christmas Greetings. We have put together a compilation of the material that was sent to us for your enjoyment. We hope you take some time to sit and relax while you read what your loved ones and friends and neighbours have to say about the yuletide season. The theme for our writing contest was “Favourite Christmas Memory” and we received many wonderful stories in four categories – youth, teen, adult and senior. We also received great artwork from some of the schools in our readership area, and some yummy recipes from other readers. We hope you enjoy the read. We wish you and your loved ones the best of the festive season and hope you have a healthy and prosperous new year.

in the canopy of the eucalyptus. As darkness fell and children’s eyes became heavy, we told the story of the eve of the first Christmas, when other strangers in a strange land witnessed a coming of infinite promise and love. The next day, under the bright Aussie sun, Dennis and I fired up the old brick barbecue, rigged a cover with aluminum foil, and settled down for a long afternoon of feeding bits of hardwood to the fire to roast our ‘bird’ to perfection. Perhaps there was a beer or two in there as well. After dinner, we lit the sparklers then toasted marshmallows over the remainder of our coals. It has been 11 years since that simple Christmas in the Australian bush when the children were small and full of wonder. We spent our time together then, preparing and sharing. Remembering it now, I marvel at the peace and blessing which surrounded us, our legacy from that first Christmas night.

A division of Black Press (1969) Ltd.

Publisher: Chris Nickless Editor: Ken Alexander Writers: Gaven Crites, Carole Rooney Production: Judy Willsey, Kerri Mingo, Debbie Theoret Advertising: Martina Dopf, Heather Nelson, Chris Nickless Office Staff: Jennifer Boden, Lori Brodie

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

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The Christmas Angel By Marianne Van Osch

any years ago there was a family living in a small log cabin in a narrow valley up in the high country past Ruth Lake. And oh, it was a beautiful place, with a hayfield and tall trees all around. They had a few cows, a horse named Rusty, and some chickens, of course. In the summer, they farmed and gardened. In the winter, the mother taught her boys to read and to do arithmetic, which is a lovely word that used to mean mathematics. This story started on the day before Christmas, the year Jim was going on 10 and Ben was five. Their father had been gone on his trapline for three days. He was late coming home and their mother was worried about him, although she knew he was wise and very careful. Christmas Eve came and still, no father. Jim and Ben took care of the animals and brought in enough firewood to keep the stove going all night. As darkness fell, their mother lit the coal oil lamp. Suddenly she sat down on a chair at the kitchen table. “Jim,” she said in a tight, strange voice. “Go and hitch up Rusty and bring the bobsled around. We have to go to the Schmidts.” The Schmidts were their closest neighbours. They lived about a kilometre away, down at the end of the valley. The children loved to visit the Schmidts, an older couple who spoke English in pieces, mixed with German and plenty of laughter. Their home was warm and cozy and there was always something

You must call her Angela because that means Angel in many places of the world. good to eat. Jim hitched Rusty to the bobsled and led him to the door. Ben and his mother were waiting, bundled up so that only their eyes looked out at the velvet sky full of stars and at the horse stamping and blowing out a soft cloud of breath. Jim helped his mother, who was moving slowly and heavily, up onto the seat, lifted Ben into the back, covered them both with robes and headed Rusty and the bobsled out onto the rough track through the snow. It was bitterly cold. Thankfully, they did not have far to go. When they got to the Schmidts’ house, Jim ran in to get help. Mr. Schmidt hurried out to the sleigh, tight-faced, not smiling as usual. The heavy frost-covered door closed out the cold night behind the mother and her two boys. Mrs. Schmidt bustled around, taking off coats and pulling chairs close to the wood stove. She gave the boys a cup of tea with plenty of sugar and milk. Their mother asked if she could lie down. Mr. Schmidt helped her from the chair and into the bedroom behind the wood stove wall. He went out to put Rusty in the barn where he would be warm. Rusty could talk with the Schmidts’ horses, a very nice thing for animals to do on a Christmas Eve. Mrs. Schmidt scooped

Marianne Van Osch photo

Christmas tree angels have special meaning, especially when they are passed down through the generations.

some bubbly rabbit stew from a pot on the stove into two heavy bowls. Jim and Ben ate every bit. Then she did a wonderful thing, something the boys just knew she would do. She brought out a tin with flowers on it that held gingerbread cookies, fresh and soft and spread with icing. When the boys grew drowsy, she made a bed for Jim on the sofa and pulled together two wicker armchairs to make a smaller one for Ben. The boys were

My best Christmas

By Trinity Jensen Eliza Archie Memorial School My best Christmas was when my family had a big turkey dinner. We get our Christmas tree from Save-On-Foods. My brother Alexander and sister Eva decorate the tree with candy canes and ornaments with everybody’s name on it. Eva is going to put the angel on the top of the tree. On Christmas morning, we open our presents. I got my mother Sharon Theodore a necklace and chocolates. I’m getting my dad some nice warm gloves for his work. On Christmas Eve, my brother Stephan and I always leave cookies and milk for Santa Claus.

comfortable under down quilts Mrs. Schmidt had made. In the morning, light from the low winter sun slanted through the windows. Bacon was jumping and sputtering in a pan and filling the house with a most delicious smell. Jim and Ben sat up in their makeshift beds and looked around the room. Sometime in the night a wondrous thing had happened. Over by the window stood a little fir tree. A

silver chain wound around the tree. It was made from foil that Mrs., Schmidt had scrounged from cigarette packs left behind by passers-by and visitors. Dark red garlands of rose hips, dried behind the wood stove, were draped around the tree like strings of beads. Cookies hung from the garlands. Most wondrous of all was a small angel at the top of the tree. Mrs. Schmidt made the angel from an old china doll’s head that had been part of a little girl’s toy long ago. She made a dress and wings from scraps of eyelet material that had been at the bottom of her sewing basket for some time, waiting to be used for something special. The angel looked quietly down from her tree. Just then, the boys’ mother came from the back room. She was carrying a lumpy-looking bundle, wrapped in a piece of blanket. She sat down in a rocking chair and motioned for the boys to come over to her. They did. And what do you suppose they saw? A baby’s tiny face with round blue eyes the colour of the Christmas sky, a button of a nose and a curly swirl of golden hair, as fine as silk threads. The baby’s doll-like hands rested against her cheeks. “Who’s that?” Ben asked in his loud-for-such-a-littlekid voice. “Who do you think it is?” asked their mother in her gentle way. Ben turned around and looked at the Christmas tree. He pointed to the angel on the top. Her hair was a curly swirl of gold. Her eyes

were surely blue. “That’s who she looks like,” he said. “Ja! That’s who she is!” declared Mrs. Schmidt, “A Christmas angel. You must call her Angela because that means Angel in many places of the world. That must be her name!” So the baby became Angela. Ben was as proud as he could ever be. After all, he was the one who had noticed that the baby looked just like the tree angel. Best of all, at that very moment, there was someone heading toward the Schmidts’ house on the snow-covered trail. It was their father. And then Christmas became very happy and very loud in the little Schmidt house. And full of surprises! Father brought out a bag of ribbon candy from his pocket, a special treat he had bought in Ashcroft and had kept hidden for a long time. The boys’ mother loved that ribbon candy as much as they did! He had a wooden top he had carved for Ben and a homemade bow and pack of arrows for Jim. Mrs. Schmidt lifted the angel from the top of the tree and placed it on the blanket beside baby Angela, the family’s Christmas gift. Angela grew up to be a kind girl and then a fine woman. Everyone loved her. She is a great grandmother now, and this year, Mrs. Schmidt’s angel will be lifted carefully from her box and placed on top of the tree where she can look quietly down on Angela’s family below.

Community Dinner

By Anastasia Boyce Eliza Archie Memorial School One Christmas, my Aunty and I went to the gym for dinner. Treyden, Uncle, Avery and Jodi were there with me. When I went into the gym, there were red, white and green streamers hanging over the door. I saw a picture of Santa. There was a real Santa who came to visit, after dinner. My name was called by one of the elves. I had to go up on the stage to see Santa and get my present. I received an art set for Christmas.

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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By Shelly Carrera

Christmas on the Cariboo River

hen I was a little girl, my Dad was a gold miner and we lived in a remote area along the Cariboo River, 90 miles away from the nearest town. My three siblings and I were home schooled and our Mom always made sure our schooling was extra special for us because we couldn't do all the things that other kids

closer to town got to do, especially at Christmas time. We always made our own gifts for each other, so Mom made learning how to make them part of our school work. We would spend

time down at the river collecting treasures that fishermen may have left behind. We would gather Spanish moss and leaves, driftwood, colourful stones or anything that we could turn into a gift

for someone. We were also taught how to sew simple things, such as aprons, tea towels and pillow cases, and then Mom would show us how to embroider on the items to make them

extra special. We learned to knit, crochet, make paper, draw and, of course, bake. Baking was my brother's favourite thing to do then. We would make gingerbread men, shortbread

cookies, braided fruit bread, homemade donuts and lots of other Christmas treats. No other kids we knew ever got to do this for their school work. On Dec. 22, which was also our Mom's

In the spirit of the season,

we’d like to join you and your family in a wish for worldwide peace and brotherhood this holiday season. HORSE LAKE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 5827 Horse Lake Rd.

Christmas Eve Tuesday, Dec. 24 at 6:30pm Candlelight Service • Christmas Carols • Drama: “So Incredibly Near” • Children’s participation Everyone Welcome

CHRIST THE KING

EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH

440 Horse Lake Rd. 100 Mile House PLEASE JOIN US!

Sunday Services - 10:30am Christmas Eve Candlelight Service - 7:00pm Christmas Day Service - 10:30am New Year’s Eve Service - 7:00pm Vicar Aaron Astley 250-395-5159 www.ctklc.weebly.com christtheking100m@gmail.com

CARIBOO PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

4855 Timothy Lake Rd. Lac la Hache

The Cariboo Presbyterian Church prays that everyone has a safe, happy, and wonderful Christmas season!

Christmas Eve service 7:00pm at the Lac la Hache Community Church on Timothy Lake Road Pastor Bruce Wilcox

250-396-4251

ST. TIMOTHY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH

Corner of Horse Lake Rd. & Blackstock Rd, 100 Mile House

Dec., 24

7 :00pm Christmas Eve Service with Holy Communion

Dec. 25

10:30am Christmas Day Service with Holy Communion Revs. Keith & Kristen Dobyns ALL ARE WELCOME!

ST. JUDE’S CATHOLIC CHURCH 5691 Horse Lake Rd.

Dec 24 – Christmas Eve

St Joan of Arc at Lac la Hache OAP Hall - 4 PM St Augustine at Canim Lake - 6 PM St. Jude’s 100 Mile House - 10 PM

Dec 25 - Christmas Morning

St. Jude’s 100 Mile House at 9:30 AM

New Year’s Day

St. Jude’s 100 Mile House at 9:30 AM

Phone 395-4429

100 MILE HOUSE BAPTIST CHURCH

Christmas Eve Service at 7:00pm 250-395-2932 unitedchurch@bcinternet.net

“Christmas began in the heart of God. It is complete only when it reaches the heart of man”

Christmas Eve Services Dec. 24 at 6:00pm Ph: 250-395-4637 Fax: 250-395-4648 bethelchapel@shawcable.com www.100milebethel.ca

EVERYONE WELCOME Church 250-791-9253

CARIBOO CHRISTIAN LIFE FELLOWSHIP 4930 Telqua Dr. 108 Mile

www.amazingfactsministries.com

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES Tuesday, Dec. 24 4:30pm & 6:30pm

Please call Klara

Everyone Welcome

Wishing You Jesus Christ’s SPIRIT OF LOVE!

Pastor Rick Barker 250-791-5532

250-396-7579

EVERYONE WELCOME TO SHARE

Affiliated with P.A.O.C

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 6:30pm

In His Spirit of GIVING, we are glad to offer you the amazing ‘COSMIC CONFLICT’ and ‘FINAL EVENTS’ DVDs as a free gift, which you will be sure to enjoy! Awesome one-on-one Bible study is also available with the ‘Amazing Facts’ Study Guides!

49 Dogwood Ave. 100 Mile House Exeter Truck Route, 100 Mile House

BETHEL CHAPEL

Hwy 97, at Tatton Stn. Rd. 105 Mile

CHRIST OUR SAVIOUR OUTREACH

100 MILE HOUSE UNITED CHURCH

100 MILE EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH 566 Birch Ave. (Across from the Cinema)

Christmas Eve Service at 6:00pm Candlelight Service, Christmas Readings, Christmas Carols, Childrens’ Stories, and more Pastor John E. Marshall

250-395-2337

birthday, we all went out to look for the perfect Christmas tree and once it was dry we put it up and decorated it. We had a few store bought decorations but for the most part they were all homemade. We even had an outside Christmas tree for the animals. We would make popcorn and string it and put it on the tree, peanuts were nestled into the branches. We would also make suet balls out of bacon fat and bird seed and hang them for the squirrels and birds. Many hours were spent in the window watching who was coming and going from that tree. Knowing all about the birds was incorporated into our schooling as well. No presents were ever put under the tree before Christmas Eve. Once all us kids were in bed on Christmas Eve, we could hear the elves start to get to work. There was hammering and the whir of a sewing machine. We could hear the elves humming Christmas carols and there was the rustling of paper. Our little home was filled with the scent of our beautiful Christmas tree and every now and then we could smell hot chocolate. In the morning, the cookies and milk we left for Santa were gone, and under the tree, there was a huge pile of gifts for us. Looking back, we had maybe three or four gifts each but we thought we had 100. All our gifts were homemade, not a battery anywhere to be seen. We never had a lot, but we thought we had it all.

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

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Sweet and Spicy Almond Brittle By Bonnie McDonald The following recipe was out of Sunset Magazine from the 1980s. I love it as it is fast to make, crunchy, sweet and hot. It makes a great gift to for the people in your life who like snacks spicy good. Make sure your almonds and spices are fresh for best taste. They are great chopped and sprinkled over salads, too Ingredients: 1 tablespoon (tbsp) chili powder 1/2 teaspoon (tsp) coarse salt 1/2 tsp cayenne 3 tbsp canola oil

1/2 cup sugar 2 c whole raw almonds (may use blanched for looks, but not necessary) Directions: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, salt, and cayenne. Set aside. Place sheet of foil over a large cookie sheet set aside. Pour oil into a 10- to 12-inch frying pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add sugar and stir until sugar is melted and begins to turn a golden colour, about four minutes. Add almonds and stir until

melted sugar is a rich caramel colour, about four minutes longer. Add spices and stir about one minute more; remove from heat at once if mixture begins to scorch. I turn my stove fan on when I add the spices. Immediately put almonds onto the large sheet of foil, spreading with fork to make nuts one layer thick. Let cool and harden. Break into small pieces and serve. If made ahead, store in an air-tight container up to two weeks. Makes three cups.

Swedish Lucia Saffron Buns “Lussebullar”

By Kimberly Vance-Lundsbye

These spiced sweet buns are traditionally eaten during Advent, and especially on Saint Lucia’s Day (Dec. 13). Ingredients: 8 tablespoons (tbsp) [1 stick] unsalted butter 1-1/3 cup milk 1 teaspoon (tsp) saffron threads, chopped fine and soaked in a few drops of water 1 tbs active dry yeast 2/3 cup sugar 1/2 tsp salt 2 eggs, divided use 4 cups unbleached flour and flour for kneading Raisins for garnish

Directions: Melt butter in a small saucepan set over medium heat. Add milk and saffron and heat until just until warm. Pour mixture into bowl of an electric stand mixer. Sprinkle yeast over milk and let it sit for five minutes. Add sugar, salt, 1 egg and 2 cups flour. Beat with paddle attachment until smooth and well combined, about two minutes on medium speed. Add final two cups of flour. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead until perfectly smooth. Place in a greased bowl, turn once to coat all surfaces, and let rise, covered, in a warm place

until doubled in bulk, about one hour. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 400 F. Punch dough down, roll into a cylinder 36 inches long. Cut 18 two-inch pieces from cylinder. Roll each piece into a 10-inch rope. Form each piece into an S, spiralling ends to form a figure eight. Transfer pieces to prepared baking sheet. Let rise, covered, until doubled in size, about 45 minutes. Brush buns with reserved egg. Tuck raisins into spirals at each end of figure eight. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Yield: 18 buns.

Strawberry Cranberry Tarts Strawberry Fluff Christmas Jell-O

By Candice-Rose Mapson A delicious tart that mixes two of the best foods on earth, cheese and strawberries – who knew they could taste so good together? Directions: Place 250 grams of cream cheese in a bowl with one teaspoon of vanilla extract and five tablespoons icing sugar and mix with a spoon until smooth and creamy. Using the cream cheese, fill as many cooked pastry tart shells as possible. Cut a few strawberries in half (or into sixths) and decorate as wished on top of the cream cheese. (See photo for an arrangement idea, where they come to a point at the top.) Use a pastry brush to spread cranberry jelly over the strawberries. Makes about 12.

Cranberry Yogurt Shake By Daven Mapson My family invented this! Ingredients: 1/2 cup milk 1 cup plain yogurt 3 tbsp. cranberry or cherry Jell-O Directions: Put in blender. Blend. Serve.

By Cory Mapson

Ingredients: 3/4 cup boiling water 1 package (four serving size) Jell-O 1/2 cup cold water 1/2 cup ice cubes 1 cup plain yogurt Directions: Pour boiling water into blender container. Add Jell-O and blend at low speed until dissolved

about one minute. Combine cold water and ice cubes to make one cup. Add to Jell-O and stir until ice is melted. Blend in yogurt. Chill in dessert dishes for about one hour until set. Turns into two layers if it’s chilled right. Enjoy!

Craig and the team wish everyone a

Very Merry Holiday Season and all the best for 2014.

HOLIDAY STORE HOURS Dec. 24 7:30am - 6pm; Dec. 25 CLOSED; Dec. 26 10am - 6pm New Year’s Eve 7:30am - 6pm; Jan. 1 10am - 6pm Coach House Square • Hwy 97, 100 Mile House • 250-395-2543

We wish past and present clients and families a Merry Christmas and Health and Happiness for 2014.

From Priscillia Remanente and the Care Right staff

Care + Right Home Care Services

T: 250-706-3311 F: 250-395-3307 W: www.careright.ca

May all your trails be snow-covered, May all your days be bright, May your toys be filled with gasoline, And may you always high-mark the highest height! Have a wonderful holiday season. Please ride responsibly and safely.

Cranberry Christmas Crisp By Lars Mapson Delicious! It was my family’s idea to make a cranberry instead of apple crisp for Christmas. Directions: Pour into square pan:

1 can cranberry sauce 1 can cherry pie filling Ingredients: 2/3 cup sugar 1/2 cup flour 1/2 cup oats 1/3 cup margarine 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon Directions: Pour topping on cranberry mix. Bake at 350 F for 30 minutes.

All the very best of the holiday season to our customers. Thank you for your patronage in 2013 and we look forward to seeing you in 2014! Ph: 250-395-2550 Fax: 250-395-2513 www.performanceallterrain.com 867 Alder Ave. 100 Mile House

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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Hope your holidays roll smoothly along! With special thanks to everyone who has dropped by this year. We appreciate your business and wish you all of the Very best in 2014.

From all of us at

Exeter Parts & Supplies 250-395-2277 • 260 Exeter Stn. Rd.

Wishing You An Old-fashioned Country Christmas May the comforts of home, the love of family and the memories of holidays past renew your hearts this season. Thank you for your patronage and we wish you all a Happy New Year!

100 MILE FEED & RANCH SUPPLY LTD. We go above and beyond.

1/4 mile up Exeter Rd. • 250-395-2408 “MUCH MORE THAN JUST A FEED STORE”

Drawing by Yolanda Turcanu Mile 108 Elementary School

Boy was it cold that memorable Christmas morning By Reg Berrington

From Our Home To Yours

s g n i t e e r G s ’ n Seaso From All the Realtors At…

Country Lakes Realty 100 MILE HOUSE #2-441 Alder Ave. 250-395-3422 or 1-800-731-2344

INTERLAKES

Hwy. 24/ Interlakes Corner 250-593-0131 or 1-866-593-0131

Website: www.cariboorealestate.com

Email: info@cariboorealestate.com

Each office independently owned and operated

hen I was a young lad in England, waking up in the morning was painful because of the extreme cold and darkness in my room. Central heating was not an option, and because of the war, the window curtains were closed at night offering a false sense of security. My bed felt cosy and safe, but upon opening the blackout curtains, harsh reality stared me in the face. Brown tape was stuck to the glass impeding the window view, but offered hopefulness in preventing shattered glass from hurling outward and creating terrible injuries or fatalities. A dark dawn was breaking with limited visibility. Shining lights from the houses as well as streetlights were covered or turned off so the bombers could not detect their targets from the sky. Air Raid Wardens patrolled the streets making certain everyone abided by the regulations. Fewer bombing raids were occurring now – nothing like 1941-1942 when squadrons of 600 bombers or more invaded the skies. The drone of the bombers was incredible creating a sound you are certain

not to forget. Even the sirens warning of a possible air raid became unnerving – similar to the sound of the 108 Fire Department. I could hear mom and dad stirring, but I was under strict orders to stay in my room no matter what day it was. The excitement was too much for me as it is Christmas day, so I just had to take a peek whether or not there were any gifts left for me. Things were different then, my parents needed to know where I was at all times just in case of something unfortunate happened. A number of times I was whisked to the air raid shelter at the top of our street. But this was Christmas day, so out I went searching for my gifts. In my youth, Christmas trees were not part of our tradition. My Christmas gifts were located in a pillowcase hanging from the banister rail on the landing at the top of the stairs. Excitedly, I grabbed my pillowcase and dashed into my mom and dads room leaping onto their bed barely containing myself with anticipation about what Santa had left for me. Great memories were created at Christmas many of which I can still fondly remember. After

the war, Christmas trees became very popular even artificial ones. In 1956, we immigrated to Canada, and by then, I had a brother and sister both born after the war. We landed in Montreal and then ventured east to British Columbia by train, taking five days and four nights to complete. During the travel, the Calgary Stampede was in progress, so the train stopped. I was able to see my first official cowboy just like in the movies with lots of horses. As we progressed in our travels, I was in awe as I had never seen so many trees in my life; they were everywhere except in the Prairies, just telephone poles to count. Later on in my life when my wife and I were raising our children, we always made sure we had a real tree to put our gifts under. Of course, the kids are grown now and we have grandchildren, but the memories live on. Life sometimes comes around in a full circle. We now have an artificial Christmas tree; we still can hear the 108 fire department siren making its mournful sound; and, yes, it is cold outside, but we do have Christmas lights and the world is alive and well.

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Joy

Brimming with

A reindeer in the snow

By Ruth Donald am new to the Cariboo. This is my first winter, my first Christmas here. I am looking out at snow-covered fields as I write – a wide sunset sky of blue and white behind the black silhouettes of trees, the horizon streaked with pink and purple. I’m told I’ll never take the beauty of the Cariboo landscape for granted, and I believe it. The snow takes me back to the first Christmas I remember. I might have been five or maybe six, although I suspect more than one Christmas is mixed up in my memory. My mother’s parents had a wheat and dairy farm in Starbuck, Manitoba – another quiet and snowy place – and my parents took my big brother, little sister and me to our grandparents’ house for Christmas Eve. That afternoon, my father tramped out a big wheel with spokes in the snow so we could play “Fox and Geese” before supper. The fox would try to tag the geese without going outside the trampled paths. Even I, the smallest one, managed to tag a goose when my turn came to be the fox, unaware that everyone but my brother slowed down to let me catch them. Food was plentiful and rich. In those days, there was no skimping on the butter and bacon. Christmas baking was begun weeks ahead, so there was homemade mincemeat steeped in rum and other goodies, including pfeffernusse (pepper nuts), my favourite Christmas cookie. After supper, we relaxed around the tree and sang Christmas carols. Good King Wenceslas and Joy to the World were my favourites because they showcased the rich, deep voices of my dad

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May your glass be filled with enough good cheer to last the season, and throughout the year. It’s a pleasure to think of all the great folks we’ve had the privilege to know and serve.

Thank you everyone! Cheers! Judy & Laurie

Your exclusive

dealer.

250-395-2565 8-530 Horse Lake Rd. Mon. - Fri. 9am - 5pm ~ Judy Scarrow ~ (Pinkney Complex)

May this special time be filled with food, love and laughter for you and your family. Best wishes, Brenda and Staff

Cariboo Roadhouse Restaurant 250-395-2116 • Hwy 24, Lone Butte Licenced

Submitted photo

Ruth Donald and her big brother, Don Hunter, arrived at the farmhouse in Starbuck, Manitoba to enjoy a memorable Christmas Eve with their parents.

and grandfather. After a few carols, my grandfather stood up and, regretfully, said he had to go to the barn to feed the cows. We carried on singing without him – Away in a Manger, Jingle Bells, and The First Noel – when suddenly my mother cried, “Listen! I hear tapping at the window.” My father lifted me up to the window to see. All I could see outside was darkness, except … tap, tap, tap … “Oh, look!” said my father, pointing. “It’s an antler. It must be Santa’s reindeer!” And sure enough, I could make out the brown-streaked points of an antler, tapping the glass near the window sill, although the rein-

deer itself was hidden from view. The reindeer antler disappeared and shortly thereafter, with a hearty “Ho! Ho! Ho!” Santa entered the room – red suit, white beard and all – carrying a sack of gifts. We kids could open just one gift that night. It was only Christmas Eve, after all, so most of the gifts would come home with us to be opened on Christmas morning. My grandfather came in from feeding the cows a while later, and he was terribly upset to have missed Santa’s visit. After the grownups were finished visiting, Dad carried me out to our warmed-up Pontiac, my drowsy

head on his shoulder, and tucked me into the broad back seat alongside my brother and sister. It was quiet on the drive home to Winnipeg, except for the hum of tires on the packed snow and, now and then, the tock, tock, tock of the turn signal. Now, I am as old as my grandparents were then, and they and my parents are gone, but in my mind’s eye I see them every Christmas just the same, and on the window of my memory, I hear the tap, tap, tap of the reindeer in the snow. R.E. Donald is a member of the South Cariboo Writers’ Guild and author of the Highway Mysteries series.

e wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

385 Cedar 100 Mile House

Back: Chrissy, Dan & Loretta Front: Dave & Judy

250-395-2900

From our Families to yours, we wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and all the very best for 2014! 5430 INDUSTRIAL FLATS RD 100 Mile House, BC (At Hwy 97 & 24)

Sales & Service Centres

250-395-3090 or 1-877-395-3090 D# 30767

Thank you so much to all who have helped and supported us in our first 6 months! We are grateful. Wishing everyone a very merry Christmas and many good things for the New Year...

se u o h r u o From yours... to

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Keith & Laura

from Carina, Kim and Elli

Espresso, Tea & Coffee Bar. Fresh Baked Treats. Local Food Eatery 575 Alder Ave. At the end of the Cariboo Mall 250.706.0456

A season of caring and sharing to one and all.

811 Alder Ave. 100 Mile House Next to Regency Chrysler

250 • 395 • 1123

B10

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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Merryas Challroiusr ctum stomers,

Favourite Christmas memories

to d fellow friends anand women. en outdoorsm es ou tight lin y g in h is d n W essful a and a sucinc g season in safe hunt 014 2

Elementary School students from around the South Cariboo were invited to send in drawings depicting their favourite things about Christmas

o st T e dg e Bri Lak

• Live Bait • Ice Fishing • Fishing Tackle • Hunting Supplies

- . tte Rd Bu ake ne L Lo orse H

• Firearms • Ammunition • Targets • Licenses • Camouflage

Lone Butte West To Hwy 97

6051 Lone Butte - Horse Lake Rd. lbgun@hotmail.com

250-395-2217

• Archery Supplies • Outdoor Clothing • Camping Gear

We Serve

A Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Me and my Mom decorating the tree and putting up lights Drucilla Archie, Kindergarten , EAMS

from all your

South Cariboo Lions Clubs and Lioness Club

Wesley Mah — Horse Lake Elementary School Grade 3

Thanks for your support.

Merry Christmas From our families to yours.

Hailey — Mile 108 Elementary School Eden Adams — Horse Lake Elementary School Grade 3

all Office Cariboo M

Coach House Square Office

Cariboo Mall 250-395-2481

With heartfelt gratitude for the pleasure of serving you this past year, we hope everyone enjoys a very happy and healthy holiday season!

Barton Insurance Brokers

Coach House Square 250-395-2602

Aurora — Lac la Hache Elementary School

Veronika De Vries Haczk Grade 4 — Bridge Lake Elementary My tree has presents and ornaments and a star on top of the tree.

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

www.100milefreepress.net

Thank you

100 Mile House, you did it again! Our annual Christmas Helper Event raised thousands in food and toys which we were happy to pass on to families in need. We are proud to be part of this amazing community.

MAY YOU HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A WONDERFUL NEW YEAR! 100 Mile Realty 96 Highway 97 (next to Tim Hortons) Call 1-250-395-3424 Toll Free 1-800-663-8426

Emma Law — Bridge Lake Elementary School

I like making snow angels with my brother Julian Aiden Bob Kindergarten EAMS

Teagan Ohrling — Horse Lake Elementary School My best Yuletide experience was when I went to my Grans and my cousin took me and my sister snowmobiling. We had a great supper and then we went to bed. When we woke up we all yelled "Merry Christmas!" After we had breakfast and then we went to the living room and opened our presents. We had a great time

Mathew— Lac la Hache Elementary School

Merry Christmas

and

Fröhliche Weihnachten From All of Us at the

All The Best For A Happy And Healthy Holiday Season And A Prosperous New Year!

Konrad & Hanny Schmid-Meil Aidan— Lac la Hache Elementary School

Leon Meili— Horse Lake Elementary School

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Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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Letters to Santa from Horse Lake Elementary School students

Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! How do your raindeer fly? For Christmas I would like an easy bake oven, polly pocket and barbies. I love you! Love Kathleen Schroevers Grade 2

CaribooRadio.Com Wishes Everyone in the Cariboo/Chilcotin Good Health and Everlasting Memories this Holiday Season. May 2014 Bring Many New Experiences, Prosperity and Joy to You and Yours. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR! Robert & Beverly Fry

#2-175B Airport Rd., 100 Mile House Ph: 250-395-1353 Fax: 250-395-1357

We Would Like To Extend Our Warmest Wishes To Everyone For The Holiday Season And All The Best For 2014

From The Staff Of Canlan Ice Sports, South Cariboo Rec. Centre

Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a toothless dragon. I love you! Love Leighton Grieve Grade 1 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a Wii U. I love you! Love Riley Tallent Grade 2 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a nerf gun. I love you! Love Felix Pavlik Grade 2 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a sled. I love you! Love Floria Meili Grade 2 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a Christmas Barbie. I love you! Love Shelby Scott Grade 2 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a Nerf bow. I love you! Love Blair McLean Grade 2

Dear Santa, Merry Christmas How are your rander dooing? For Christmas I would like a Glitzy Globe. I love you! Love Niko Messner Grade 2 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a lego set. I love you! Love Keenan Arnott Grade 2 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! I would like a pupy. I love you! Love Zoe Ryhal Grade 2 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a lego set. I love you! Love Luke Simpson Grade 1

Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! How is your radeyer doing? For Christmas I would like a sled and a tiy. I love you! Love Ryder Arnott Grade 2 Dear Santa, I am Khloe. I have been very good this year. I want an easy bake oven, an aquarium and that dog. Love Khloe Honeybourn Grade 1 Dear Santa, Merry ChriStmas For ChriStmaS I would lik a lago set. I love you! Love Eric Kissick Grade 1

May The Blessings Of The Season Shine Brightly On You And Yours A Very Special Thank You To All Who Donated To And Supported The Foundation In 2013.

@leg.bc.ca

The Board of Directors

SOUTH CARIBOO HEALTH FOUNDATION

Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! Santa, for Christmas I would like a pet. I love you! Love Myra Hindmarsh Grade 1 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! I like animles. Do you like animles? For Christmas I wold like a ipod and horse toys. Love Chloe Shewchuk Grade 1 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a Thomas train. I love Love Lochlan Grieve Grade 1 Dear Santa, Merry christmas! For christmas I would like a pingwin and lago. I love you! Love Nathan Kaldahl Grade 2 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a soing musheen. I love you Love Emilee Grace Stuckel Grade 2 Dear Santa, Merry Christmas! For Christmas I would like a walkie talkie and some make-up. I love you! Love Brooke Pfannmueller Grade 1

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

A broken-hearted Christmas

By Diana Forster

www.100milefreepress.net

nce upon a time, a long time ago, a little girl was happily wrapping her Christmas presents. She did a

beautiful job of wrapping because a kind teacher had taught her how to do it, and her ends and corners were all neatly pointy and tucked under. A bit like making a bed, she always thought. She’d bought her

father a tie because she really did know what he liked. Every year, the same tie in a different dark colour – green, navy, burgundy – always very sober, just like her dad. Her mother called him a “genuine teetotaller,” but she didn’t quite understand that. For her mother, she’d found four pretty handkerchiefs neatly displayed in a little flat case with a see-through lid. Made of fine fabric, each hankie had a “B”

Christmas memories

By Alexis Archie Eliza Archie Memorial School Before Christmas Day I am going to Vancouver to spend time with my family. I am looking forward to seeing my cousins: Jo-Jo, Lauren and Austin. I haven’t seen them for some time. When I am there, we play games and watch movies. I think this is my first Christmas in Vancouver. We see all colours of Christmas lights and homes that have lights in the shapes of a star. I hope we have a wonderful turkey dinner at my god-mother Tiffany’s house.

Kim and Sharon would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year!

Kim Sharon

Whimsey Gifts

Sharon’s

Jewellery & Watch Repairs 250-395-7780 • 235 Birch Avenue • 250-395-2597

Thanks to all of our families and wishing everyone a Merry Christmas.

240 Cedar Ave. 250-395-1802

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Thank you for your business! From Judy, Susan and Heather

Open Mon. - Sat. 9:00am - 5:30pm

Cariboo Mall 250-395-1887

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Merry Christmas & a Happy, Healthy New Year Wishing all the best this holiday season!

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for Belle and dainty flowers embroidered in one corner. She was nearly nine, growing up fast, and would really have liked to keep them for herself. Her little brother was six and a bit, and after much deep thinking and lots of savingup, she’d found him a HUGE and wonderful box of crayons. They came in every colour she could dream up and some she’d never heard of. When the big day came, the family gathered in the lounge, with a roaring fire to make it merrier. The lounge was kept for “special occasions,” and she only ever remembered being in there twice before, both times at Christmas. Her mother and father were suitably impressed with their “perfect’’ gifts and made her very happy with their thank-yous. Then her little brother opened his beautifullywrapped package and stared. “I don’t want stupid crayons,” he shouted, and threw the box as hard as he could so it crashed into the far wall and broke apart. The beautiful crayons created a glorious rainbow as they flew out and arced across the room. The little girl watched openmouthed, then burst into tears. She was the only one who’d seen a little piece of her heart in the middle of that glorious rainbow.

B13

Horse Lake Rd. 100 Mile House

250-395-2578

May this Christmas greeting find you and yours in good spirits, ready to celebrate the gifts of peace and joy with friends and loved ones. From your friends at Your Community Drugstore ®

250-395-2921 Cariboo Mall, Hwy 97, 100 Mile House

B14

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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Merry Christmas We hope your Christmas is filled with family, friends and good times!

Bridge Lake Towing

Reasonable Rates 24 Hr. Service ICBC Towing & Storage

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STORY CONTEST WINNER

Senior

My best Christmas (so far)

By Noreen Schulte The year was 1991. My husband and I had been married for fourand-a-half years, and having been unable to conceive a child, we had applied to both S o c i a l Services (as it was called at that time) and a private agency, with the hopes of adopting. I was 36 years old and I could hear my biological clock ticking louder. We had not wasted our childless years – both of us were involved as sponsors for our church’s youth group and volunteering with Big Brothers and Big Sisters. We had also been caring for other people’s children (from newborns to teen moms and everything in between) as foster parents. We loved our 10 nieces and nephews, but half of them lived in another province and the other five lived on a continent halfway around the world. At the time, we had a pregnant teen mom and her toddler living with us, but the past spring, we had suffered the agonizing loss of a precious foster daughter who had been our joy for the first year of her life. Our little “foster granddaughter” helped fill my empty arms, but really, she was not mine. There was always the suspicion niggling at the back of my mind that I was destined to fall in love with other

people’s babies and then have them torn from my arms and my heart. Then, one day in early December, we received a phone call from the private adoption agency telling us that there was a birth mom interested in us as potential parents for her baby girl. We had a conference call conversation with her and the agency social worker, and a week later, we made arrangements for our foster daughter’s care, made the 10-hour drive to Abbotsford, and bought an infant car seat. The next day we met our new daughter – she was so beautiful! We phoned the Alberta grandma to tell her to add another name to her Christmas shopping list, and then surprised the British Columbia grandparents by showing up on their doorstep with our little bundle. The next few weeks until the new year was a whirlwind of visiting loved ones to show off our gift, before returning home to settle in as a family. Two years later a baby sister was added to the equation under different circumstances. We love both our daughters from the bottoms of our hearts, but I will always remember the Christmas of 1991 as my best Christmas ever.

Christmas memories

By Sonny Thomas Eliza Archie Memorial School One Christmas, Connor, Tyrone and me went sliding at the sand pit. We have four slides to share with Terrance and Treyden. We have a race with each other; it is fun! Sometimes we jump off when we are going to crash. We also have snowball fights.

At this special time of year, we pause to enjoy family and friends. All of us here at Centennial Law wish you Season’s Greetings and a happy, healthy New Year. Rather than sending out Christmas Cards at this time of year,

the Centennial Law team supports the following local charities: 100 Mile & District Women’s Centre Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre Royal LePage Christmas Helper Event and other local non-profit organizations and events We will be closed for the Christmas break at 12:30pm on Dec. 24th, 2013 and will re-open at 8:30am on January 2nd, 2014.

L to R: Terry, Julie, Lori, Dana, Nancy, Doug, Chris, Lynn & Lucia

Proudly Providing Legal Services to the Cariboo.

CENTENNIAL LAW

DOUGLAS E. DENT CAROLINE PLANT* CHRIS DUNSMORE

*On maternity leave

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Come see our ground floor, smoke-free location. Wheelchair accessible.

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

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B15

Cavalcade of colourful sweaters brightens holidays Grandma’s handiwork pleases family, friends, everyone Gaven Crites Free Press

t didn’t start out like a Christmas tradition, but it has morphed into a pretty sharp and fabulous one. And if you’re lucky enough to be next in line, well, they make for a much anticipated and gorgeous gift. The first one was pink – bright pink. I’m talking like a-flamingowould-be-jealous pink. It was a beautiful sweater, and it received a lot of attention. My grandma, Irene Crites, is a real talent. She’s a master knitter. Perhaps as important, she has a number of books with awesome patterns in them. I found them when I was about 18 buried under boxes full of balls of colourful yarn. Inside the books are some of the most popular cartoon characters of all time. Close to eight years later, there are so many on the front of the sweaters lined up in my closet it’s like watching Saturday morning television. At first, for me anyway and I guess maybe to most folks, the sweaters were a real novelty. It’s not every day you see a grown man wearing a bright blue Wilma Flintstone, lime green Snagglepuss, cream coloured Ninja Turtle, grey Barney Rubble, etc. I’m not going to lie, they’re definite attention grabbers. These days, I appreciate the practical appeal of a thick, yet breathable layer of clothing. They still generate the regular comment and compliment. Where did you get that? I tell them. No way.

I show them the tag. It reads: “Made with Grandma’s Love.” Oh my God, that is so adorable/awesome. How does she do it? Where can I get one? I’ll pay anything. More than once I’ve been offered between $200 and $500 for the Wilma. I never made a deal. My grandma thinks I’m nuts. “Why didn’t you take the money? I can always make you another one.” If you think about it, though, a handcrafted item like that, all the careful grandma-hours that go into each one, they should retail at a few hundred dollars, anyway. So it’s not a windfall. It’s basically what they’re worth. An old art teacher from high school paid something like $200 for one back in the day. I’m thinking maybe he’s still wearing his red Barney Rubble when he’s with his family during the holidays. I honestly can’t keep

she’s not wearing hers at Christmas anymore, but she should be. That was a fine piece of work. (I’m talking about the sweater.)

Bear. I pick him up when I visit grandma in Sudbury, Ontario, for Christmas. She actually sent me the same sweater last winter, but

The first one was pink – bright pink. I’m talking like a-flamingo-would-bejealous pink track of them all, but off the top of my head, my younger brothers, in their early 20s, have a few different models. An uncle has a grey Bamm-Bamm Rubble. A little cousin, she’s only a baby, has Pebbles Flintstone. Another cousin, a university student, got a Ninja Turtle earlier this year. He sent me some photos. It was a big hit at a St. Patrick’s Day party. An old girlfriend has a Fred Flintstone. Maybe

And I know there are other folks with different ones, in all kinds of colours, but I can’t exactly remember. On all of mine, the yarn has stretched over the years and they’re all a bit baggier these days. Consider, though, that they’ve been in my regular fall and winter wardrobe rotation since I’ve been old enough to vote. However, I’m in line for a new one this year – a bright yellow Yogi

sadly it was a few sizes too small. Something happened with the measurements. (OK, I put on a not insignificant amount of weight since the last one she made me.) Needless to say, Yogi was at the top of my wish list this year and again, the old lady delivered. So, along with seeing family and friends, a new sweater is what I’m most looking forward to seeing at Christmas this year. Looking around

the room when I get home, there should be a few more festive pieces that look a lot like mine. I hope my grandma takes some time to admire her work, and she probably will. It’s sharp. Knitting is not the universal thing it used to be. We joke about working my grandma’s old little fingers to the bone. It’s pretty funny, and she loves it. She gets most of her work done on the couch watching TV. Each project keeps her busy and in a way I think maybe keeps her close or closer to whomever it’s for. Not to get too sentimental about it, because they are only sweaters and grandmas knit sweaters. It’s what they do. But not all of them do, and not like these. My grandpa, Frank, died in October 2012. They were married 49 years. My grandma called about two months ago and we

Submitted photo

Irene Crites has knitted dozens of items – most famously, colourful sweaters with popular characters on them – for friends and family over the years.

spoke for a while and I had a measuring tape stretched from my wrist to my armpit. I gave her a number and she wrote it down in a book I know exactly where she keeps it by the couch in

the living room. Then we talked about my grandpa a bit. It was right about a year since he died. It’s a lonely thing for her. “Gav, if I didn’t have my knitting....” she said.

B16

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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A Christmas Treat!

May the sights, sounds and smells of the holiday season come alive for you and yours this year.

STORY CONTEST WINNER

TEEN

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all From at s u f o

By Elaine Hefer “Joy to the world, the Lord is come....” The music reached Jeanna’s ears as she ran down the stairs Christmas morning, hoping Aunt Julia was awake. Rose, her 16-year-old sister, had just plugged in the Christmas tree lights. Reflections danced off the bright gifts to sprinkle the room with red, green, and blue. Music filtered quietly from the CD player. “Merry Christmas, Rose,” Jeanna said. “And a happy New Year,” Rose replied, like Mom had always done. Her voice, though, wasn’t exactly joyful. Jeanna’s excitement hadn’t made her forget. Three months before, the girls’ mother had died of cancer. Only a month later, their father had been trucking lumber along the highway at night. Meeting another driver who had fallen asleep for a few seconds, drifting onto his side of the road, they’d had a head-on collision. While the other man had survived, Dad had died on impact. Aunt Julia came in. “Merry Christmas, girls!” It was comfort-

ing to be engulfed in Aunt’s hug. Jeanna had Aunt’s looks, meaning she was like Dad. Wavy brown hair and clear hazel eyes. Rose resembled Mom: curly golden hair and gleaming blue eyes. “There’s a surprise for you today,” Aunt Julia continued. “Besides your presents, that is. You’ll like it.” “What is it?” Jeanna asked curiously. “You’ll see after breakfast.” Rose whispered as they went out, “It’s probably something about Mom and Dad.” Jeanna nodded. Fourteen and 16 years old were pretty young to lose their parents. Aunt Julia had taken them in willingly, with unending love. They had to wait until they had opened the presents under the tree. Most were from friends and Aunt Julia. The girls didn’t have many family members. After they finished, Aunt Julia said, “Follow me. It’s in the attic.” Following her upstairs, they climbed the ladder to the attic. Aunt switched on the lights. Rose gasped. Hot tears stung Jeanna’s eyes. The attic was full of items: in

one corner was Mom’s wedding dress and Dad’s wedding suit. On the sideboard were pictures, some of Mom and Dad with the girls, others of nights at restaurants and barbecues. Against the other wall stood a small bookcase, holding Mom’s journals and Dad’s history books. On the floor was Mom’s hooked rug. Above the sideboard was Dad’s sheepskin vest. Everywhere in the small attic were memories, pictures of the past. “Oh, Auntie...” Rose murmured. They hugged her tightly. “How did you do it?” Aunt Julia smiled tearfully. “I had the things prepared a week ago, and yesterday while you were outside, I set it up for you. This all belongs to you now. It’s yours.” Jeanna dried her tears, standing beside Aunt and Rose. The memories seemed etched into the room. It even smelled of Mom’s perfume and Dad’s shoeshine. “Thank you, Auntie,” they said simultaneously. Aunt held them closely. “Silent night, holy night...” drifted up from the living room. It’s Christmas, Jeanna thought, and Mom and Dad are with us.

Best yuletide experience

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Christmas with mom and dad

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By Amy Baechmann 100 Mile Elementary School On Christmas Eve, we were all going to STORY go to the Santa Claus CONTEST parade that was WINNER going to be happenYOUTH ing in town at five, and I was going to lead a pony named Shadow. We were all really excited about it and I thought it was going to be awesome to be in front of all those people with a horse I loved. That morning my mom had made pancakes and I had been bursting with excitement the whole morning until my mom said that I would get nothing but coal in my stocking if I didn’t calm down soon. So I went down to the barn. We had a huge barn with about 10 stalls, but we only had two horses. When I got down to the barn, I heard a rustling coming from the barn. I walked over to the door and found a small golden bell lying in the snow below it. I picked it up and shook it. It made a beautiful tinkling, and at the same time, I heard a huge clank in the barn.

I shoved the door open and gasped when I saw a reindeer in the aisle. It looked at me and I saw that it was tangled up in the mesh we used to put on the trees, so the beaver would not eat them. It had the wire stuck on its antlers and it was cutting through its skin. I stepped forward and it just looked at me curiously, so I walked over to it and carefully held out my hand, and to my amazement, it rubbed its nose against it. I carefully slipped my hand under the mesh and untangled it. Slowly, I stepped back and examined it more closely to see if it had gotten hurt anywhere else. Fortunately, it wasn’t hurt. So I backed away and opened the door so it could run away. But it stayed there, like it seemed to be waiting for something. I followed its gaze to the bell that I was still holding in my hand and I noticed that it was wearing a Continued on B17

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

STORY CONTEST WINNER

www.100milefreepress.net

The Cowboy

ps You’re tliost on our o.

ADULT

By Alamaz Durand His name was Sam. He was a good man, a hard working man and somehow he still had to explain that the cowboys weren’t like what you saw in the movies all thanks to actors like John Wayne. He did have the horse and the chaps, the reigns, and most of what you see, but to a cowboy a hat wasn’t just a hat. It was his identity. Sam did drive the cattle and ride the range; he did it with a timeless heed. He couldn’t help but think on this winter’s night how “true” cowboys were a dying breed. He built a fire in his weather worn attire, sat down and stared up at that evening star. Sure, he didn’t ride the desert canyons, but he still kept his faithful companion. To be honest, his horse was more reliable then any sports car. Sam watched as his breath danced out and was briefly captured in the cold as his thoughts drifted towards a Christmas story of old. He tried to remember as best as he could; it was about the beginning chapter of a man, just like him, who was misunderstood. This man did what Sam couldn’t imagine anyone would do. He came to save not just his life but the rest of the world, too. This story stood apart and it was close to his heart because this story was true through and through. He wanted to show his highest respect; he wouldn’t dare and try to sing. Instead it was the only honourable gesture a cowboy could do to salute the King of kings. Sam bowed his head even though he was the only one there. He moved his hat and closed his eyes and said a heartfelt prayer. He replaced his hat upon his head, and with one last look to the sky, he went to bed. Christmas morning arrived rising from where he lay. He gathered up his belongings and mounted his horse to start his early day. As he looked at the sunrise, he was a silhouette against the golden sky reminding him once more about the man that came to die. Maybe it was other folk who found it hard to believe that true cowboys do exist even though they are becoming unfortunately rare. But this man wasn’t as hard like those portrayed in the movies. Sam did have a soul, a heart, he truly did care. The sun did continue to rise. This time he didn’t close his eyes; instead he watched the colour change, that part he did love. Giving one last gaze to the sky, he tipped his hat showing his gratitude to the Lord high above. Turning his horse together as one they trotted through the snow. As he had to travel a hard mile so all he did was smile as he had to go. He herded his cattle. Some things don’t change; real cowboys sit … tall in the saddle … and work hard on the range.

From B16

B17

list, to and Santa’s on filled seas Here’s to a goodies d with gifts an at to-do! e r g galore and ys from a Happy holid yours. to e our hous POST OFFICE HOURS: MON. - FRI. 9 - 5:15 • SAT. 10 - 2

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Merry Christmas

The best Christmas ever

harness that had exactly the same bells on it and they jingled when it moved. I looked over the harness and found a gap in the perfect line of bells. I walked over to it and held the bell to the fabric, and then the most amazing thing happened, the bell just reattached itself to the harness and the reindeer sighed and leaped out the barn and into snow and disappeared. I was dazed and ran up to the house and told my mom everything, but, of course, she didn’t believe me, but that was OK.

When we were all ready, we loaded Shadow into the trailer

and drove to the parade. At the parade, everything seemed extra

fun and magical to me and that was the best Christmas ever.

Hope your holidays are filled with good things and all your dreams come true at this special time of year. A special thanks to all our friends and members for your patronage, from the staff at Williams Lake & District Credit Union

#2 95B Cariboo Hwy 97 Coach House Square 250-395-4094

B18

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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A big-hearted host at the holidays Carole Rooney Free Press

hen I was a child, many of my family’s Christmas traditions were likely just like those in any other average, middle-class household in Canada. My dad had a special custom of his own, though, which stands out amongst my numerous holiday memories, and I reflect on it every year. Always a generous fellow year-round, my father, Alan Hassell, loved to bring home anyone he ran across who he felt needed some good old family Christmas cheer. These sudden dinner guests ranged from hungry hitchhikers he found along the highways around Vernon (our hometown) to lonely business associates, from anywhere in British Columbia, after the recent passing of his or her spouses. Since they frequently arrived with Dad as last-minute “surprises” (we weren’t too surprised), Mom would quickly send a couple of us six children scrambling to find chairs, hassocks, piano stools, frilly, curtained seats from homemade dressing-tables (we had those, then), benches or whatever. This could be a challenge, as often many of our more precarious perches were already pressed into use to ensure a comfier seat for our resident Nana (Olive Clayton), neighbourhood or out-of-town friends (young and old), and a typical selection from our myriad relatives joining us at Christmastime

Submitted photo

On Christmas Eve in 1964, the Hassell family children welcomed their cousins, the Lugtig family from Manitoba, to share the holidays with them in Vernon. The four Hassell siblings at that time include the three in the patterned PJs, centre, and the author, front right.

from across the country. But that didn’t stop Dad. Where our extra dinner company would settle to eat never entered into his mind, it seemed. And somehow, whether it was Mom’s prudent planning or God’s Loaves and Fishes miracle, there was always plenty of food to share. Either way, we knew how lucky we were to have such an awesome abundance of family and feasting, since our parents kept us enlightened about what was going on out there in the rest of the world. Having folks

at the table with nowhere else to go for a celebration – who were often hard up for money, as well as family members – helped this sink in. Many of these yuletide guests shared with us their poignant tales, and the feelings, more than the specifics from those times, have stayed with me. This story can’t be told without mentioning my mother, Joan, who took the brunt of the extra work, of course, but never (well, rarely...) lost her patience or her smile.

Mom would welcome our ad hoc guests warmly, and then rush off to peel a few more potatoes, add a splash of water to the gravy, and send somebody to the deep freezer for ice cream to boost up the pies and plum puddings she had lovingly prepared. She played a key role in expanding our family unit, too, as Mom and Dad fostered three children (soon adopting one of them) – while Joan was still in her 20s with three young children of her own – and then went on to bear two more, myself included. That didn’t stop her from welcoming the billeted exchange students, youth in town for sports events and folks visiting for concerts and church activities commonly at our table and in our bunk beds (we’d get the cots in the basement), very often during the holidays. Even we kids caught on quickly, and then came home with sad stories about a classmate or young friend who didn’t have it as good as we did, and could surely benefit from a tasty turkey meal. Of course, Dad would just smile and agree wholeheartedly, and if Mom ever did roll her eyes on the way to the pantry, we never saw it. What we did notice was the warmth and generosity of growing up in a household where no one in need was ever turned away at Christmas. In fact, many guests were sought out by my dad all year long, as Alan had a keen eye for those in need wherever he travelled, a soft heart for the disheartened, and a deep passion for bringing home the homeless.

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100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

A night to remember By Rick Barker Cariboo Christian Life Fellowship

The walls were cold and damp. He moved quietly so as not to disturb her. He squinched his nose up at the odour of urine, mud, and animals. Mary slept. The baby slept. All was quiet. “What a night,” he thought. “What a year!” His thoughts drifted back to when Mary came to him and told him she was pregnant. He was shaken to the core; anger rose up in him. How could she? Her story of an angelic visit and a Saviour planted inside seemed ridiculous. After all, he had lived his whole life as a righteous man. Obedient to the letter of the law in every way! He would put her away. Then the very same angel encountered him and he knew. He took it upon himself to care for this girl and the gift within her.

Rick Barker

Friends left. Family sneered. He was determined to protect her – and as the months went by he made preparations at his father’s house to bring her in. Then the census – everyone had to go to the city of their birth to register. A long trek to Bethlehem – he packed everything, including her, and made the journey. That was more than a week ago. Now, the child was here. A boy, just as the angel promised, born in a cave, wrapped in

cloths, just like Isaiah prophesied some 700 years before! “Amazing,” thought Joseph as he sat down, his back against the cavern wall. He looked at Yeshua – Salvation. “He will save His people from their sins,” the angel had said. This is the Son of God. Joseph wrestled with his thoughts. “How could it be? How could this baby be the Son of God? But it is just as the prophets foretold … and those shepherds, and kings coming with gifts … what a night.” Another thought struck him. “How can I be a father to the Son of God? Oh my Lord I need Your help! “I will do my best; I will teach him my trade. His best work will be with nails and wood.” Joseph crossed his arms, went to sleep and dreamt of raising a Son. Little did he know!

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What separates you from the Love of God

By Klara Lange

Christ our Savior Outreach

Some say: “Just believe” but others prefer “hard work” to obtain salvation. Similarly, the Pharisees rejected Christ, and lowered God’s exalted love and faith requirement, the standards of righteousness, to “works,” insinuating they can still make it to heaven on their own. “Beware of the delusions and hypocrisy of the Pharisees,” warned Jesus. Today these would be scoffers and skeptics saying they cannot believe that God is who He says He is, and He can do what He says He will do. To substitute their lack of divine attributes, they resort to “good works” - like concessions, rigid rules and rituals, even paying painful penances – to earn God’s

We need the story of Christmas

Keith and Kris Dobyns

father who lets love overcome all the rules that tell him to cut his losses and walk away? Would you miss the story of thunderstruck shepDear friends, old and new: herds and choirs of angels and a travelling star and What would life be like without Christmas? magi from the East? What would our lives be Would your life be differlike without the birth of ent without the story of a Jesus? healer who asks no payment, Now in the dark and of a king who refuses to wage cold of midwinter in the war, of a servant who would Cariboo, how would our be a Saviour of all? lives be different? For 2,000 years, this story Would you miss the art has shaped who we are and and the Christmas carols? who we think God wants Would you miss It’s us to be. Without it, our a Wonderful Life and A Christmas is just an excuse Charlie Brown Christmas, to spend money and have Keith and Kris Dobyns and the wassailing songs or a party. When we take this Handel’s Messiah? story seriously, we find our Would you miss the parties and the opportunity lives are different. We discover with this story that to give special gifts to your loved ones? our lives can be ruled by compassion and forgiveAnd what about the story – the story of God’s ness, justice and mercy, hope and love. love? With this story, we discover that God has entered Would you miss the story of an unmarried teen- our lives as a newborn baby, to turn us into the age mother giving birth to a helpless baby who people of God. would change the world, or of a gobsmacked stepHave a blessed Christmas! St. Timothy’s Anglican Church

B19

Klara Lange

unmerited favour. When all efforts fall short, they conclude that even God should be satisfied with something less than perfect. Jesus sets the records straight, “...unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of

the Pharisees, you will by no means enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:20) The basic of Pharisaic self-righteousness is self-exaltation and unbelief, observing the form, but neglecting the Spirit of love and faith of God. A puffed-up attitude makes God’s clear instructions appear illogical and, consequently, it will condemn us and keep us out of heaven. God knows our limitations and He prepared us a perfect way out through our innocent Saviour, in whose righteous merits we can safely trust simply by love and faith. He is the perfect Lamb of

God, sacrificed for our lives in exchange, “Who takes away the sins of the world.” Jesus forgives our trespasses and restores us from the ruins and destruction of sin, which caused our fall in the first place. We do not have a loving relationship with works, ideas, philosophy or theology, but with Jesus Christ, our Righteousness. He proved His love, despite ourselves, and “chose” us in advance, to be with Him forever, to be perfect and holy in His selfless love! May the love and peace of Jesus fill your heart richly this Christmas!

Raise Your Spirits! Our spirits are lifted by thoughts of our customers. We thank you for the privilege of serving you.

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ay the magic of the season M fill your heart and home with joy. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year! From All of us at

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B20

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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May the magic and wonder of this holiday season stay with you throughout the coming year bringing peace and happiness into each day.

100 Mile Funeral Service Ltd. Shane, Meg , Karen and Danielle ~ SERVING THE SOUTH CARIBOO SINCE 1978 ~

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Take time to enjoy your family and friends during the holiday season. Merry Christmas. from Deanna Oenema Canada’s Mortgage Experts™

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A great treasure has been discovered in Israel

By John E. Marshall

100 Mile House Evangelical Free Church

A recent article in Breaking Israel News describes the confirmation of additional natural gas reserves off the coast of Haifa (some 120 kilometres northwest of Bethlehem). The total reserves are just over 20 trillion cubic metres. According to the International Energy Agency, 50 billion cubic metres of gas would fill 20 million olympic-sized swimming pools. But over 20 trillion cubic metres? Unimaginable! What a find! What a treasure!

John E. Marshall

Almost two millennia ago, another unimaginable treasure was found in Israel. Not 120 kilometres from Bethlehem, but in Bethlehem itself. Not 1,700 metres underground, but in a stable.

om laughte as wish fr iness and p p a h A Christm f o aring! asures ing and c iv g , simple ple g in r eace, d sha ing you p r loving an b r a e Y the New iness. eason and S e th y and happ a h M lt a e h d goo port. loyal sup r u o y r fo ou Thanks y nd Pharmacy at Store Departmen 94-4040 se • 250-3 e Hou

Lac la Hache Community Chapel

I remember a friend of mine, a logging truck driver, who used to say, “Well, I had to throw the jewelry on her!” He was referring to throwing chains on his tires when the going got too slippery. Because the one thing to avoid no matter what was to spin out going up a hill, or even worse, try going down an icy hill and lose

Bruce WIlcox

traction, especially in a loaded logging truck!

. 100 Mil Birch Ave

Thank you for your patronage over this past year. Wishing you and your family a joyous season and all the best in the New Year!

Larry McCrea Law Corporation BARRISTER & SOLICITOR #3-95B Cariboo Hwy 97, 100 Mile House, BC Phone: 250-395-1151 • Fax: 250-395-1153 www.lmccrea.com

ers of their discovery. The Saviour. Christ the Lord. In a manger. Unimaginable! What a find! What a treasure! We are told in Scripture that, “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” Freedom from the penalty and power of sin! Strength, wisdom, comfort and peace as we face the challenges of life! Eternal life! Unimaginable! What a treasure! What a Saviour! During the Christmas season, may you thank God “...for His indescribable gift.” God bless you – every one.

Do you feel like your life is going downhill? Out of control? Like you’re just spinning your wheels, wondering in your day-to-day routine “is this really all there is?” Well, the good news is that there really is so much more! The wise men came bearing gifts, but they really proved their great wisdom when they submitted themselves to Jesus as God in worshipping Him, even as a

human baby. He is worthy of our submission and worship also because He willingly came into this suffering world in order to love and live the perfect life that we could never live; endure the worst the world could throw at Him; and suffer, die and rise again so we could have the opportunity to be reconciled with our loving God, have a personal relationship with Him, and eternal life through His forgiveness of “everything” in our life that has kept us separated from Him. Think about it. Make this Christmas a turning point in your life! One of the great promises in God’s Word for us through Jeremiah is that if anyone seeks Him with all their heart, they will find Him! Throw the jewelry on the wheels of your life once and for all by giving control of it to Christ. You’ll never regret it! The greatest blessings of Christmas to all.

Throw some jewelry on the wheels of your life

By Bruce Wilcox

s and a m t s i r h C y Merry Have a veornderful New Yearn!ex for the t Do aw all of us a r,

The news of this treasure was not announced to the world by a national news medium. This news was announced to humble shepherds by an angel – “...there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” With anticipation and wonder the shepherds hurried to Bethlehem and found the infant Jesus Christ in a stable, in a manger, just as the angel had said. Wasting no time, the shepherds went about telling oth-

May the Great Spirit grant you peace and happiness during the Holiday season. Yiri7 re kwseltkten-kt Me7 le7stwecw-kp ne Xyum te Sitqt. Xwexwistsin! From everyone here at the Canim Lake Band

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

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The best of joy, the best of cheer for Christmas and the coming year! Merry Christmas and Fröhliche Weihnachten from Diana and Klaus

Peace on Earth for those who will accept Him

By Aaron Astley

Christ the King Lutheran Church

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” The angels praised God because that very day in Bethlehem a Saviour had been born and He was Christ the Lord. That Saviour would bring peace on Earth to those with whom God is pleased. Peace on Earth. Now that is something we can probably all agree is a good thing. But we don’t see that peace around us very much, do we? Instead we see the

Aaron Astley

opposite of peace all over the world. There are wars, conflicts, and acts of terror happening in many places. Plus, hatred, anger, and violence are on display in our own country quite

regularly. So where is the peace that the angels talked about? Has this Saviour brought peace on Earth after all? Yes, He has. That little baby born in a Bethlehem stable has brought peace between God and men. By coming to Earth as a little child, God Himself has brought us peace. In anger and selfishness human beings have turned their backs on God. But God reached out to us by sending us His Son to repair the relationship that we had broken. That Saviour born in a manger would one day die on a cross and

then rise again three days later, so that all people may have peace with God. And now to every one who believes in Him, Jesus offers that peace. Peace for those caught in sadness. Peace for those feeling shame and guilt. Peace for those who are sick. Peace for those nearing death. Peace that comes from the promise of eternal life forever with our God. Peace for you. And so may that peace, which is beyond anything we could ever understand, be with you this Christmas season.

The Christmas sacrifice

By Cameron Johnston Seventh-day Church

Adventist

As you celebrate and review the story of the baby in the manger this Christmas, focus on who this baby is and what does his life, death and resurrection mean to your future. There is more than enough hard evidence that this helpless baby in the manger is our unselfish creator stepping down from the throne of the universe to save mankind. Thus the Christmas sacrifice. Here we have Immanuel, God becoming one of us. As humans, we are all contaminated with sin and rebellion. This reveals itself clearly in our natural selfishness, which permeates all society and ultimately ends in death, which was never a part of God’s original plan. I know. We can hardly grasp the concept not to mention understand the idea of the all-powerful creator lowering himself and becoming a man encumbered

Cameron Johnston

with the limits of our humanity. Our natural response

is that this is unbelievable and a figment of someone’s imagination. Truth, however, is much stranger than fiction and this is truth in its most basic and unassuming form. The Christmas sacrifice is God becoming a man. Why? First, to reveal the truth about God’s unconditional love for us and how far he will go to save us, and second, God needed to become man so he could actually die on

the cross to redeem and transform us. While the reality of God’s love and grace is far beyond our ability to fully appreciate, we can accept and enjoy its benefits. Open your life to the blessings of the season and take some quiet time and explore the Christmas sacrifice. Allow your creator to minister his grace to you personally. You will be surprised with the joy and peace from the person of Christmas.

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Christmas Greetings We appreciate the year-round support of good friends like you, and we wish you all the best at Christmas-time and throughout the new year!! From Maureen & Ken Puffer & Staff

375 Birch Ave., 100 Mile House • 250-395-4081

May this holiday season bring a string of glad tidings and glow with the warmth of family and friends. With gratitude for helping us grow our business.

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Wishes for a great Christmas and New Year’s! From Bob and the staff

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We would like to wish all of our customers a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year! Phone: 250-395-4800 • Fax: 250-395-4083 www.burgessphe.com 300 Industrial Rd., 100 Mile House

Wonderful wishes for a joyous Christmas season and a happy New Year

from Eddi, Christa, Annabelle and Dot.

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Birch Ave., across from CIBC

Merry Christmas

to all our loyal customers, and all the best for the New Year. See you all next year!

Butcher Bob’s

6352 Spuraway Road, Forest Grove

250-397-2793

B21

To our clients, friends, and neighbours, Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy, Healthy New Year! From Ingrid & Rainer

Rainer’s Health House

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• 4927 Gloinnzun Dr., 108 Mile Ranch • Ph: 250-791-5663 •

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Merry Christmas And Happy New Year To All!

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 100 Mile Free Press

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May your home be filled with love, laughter, music and dance! And may your heart be filled with the Christmas Spirit all year through. Kerri Mingo

From our Free Press family to yours… Have a very Merry Christmas and a Safe, Prosperous, Happy New Year! Chris Nickless

May the Spirit of Christmas fill your heart all through 2014! Jennifer Boden

I wish everyone in our community a Christmas overflowing with love and laughter. May your heart be filled with joy throughout the New Year. Carole Rooney

I wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year. Fröhliche Weihnachten und ein gesundes und glückliches neues Jahr. Martina Dopf

I wish all our readers and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous new year. I thank all of you who have shared your stories, opinions and your photos with our readers this past year.

May your holiday season be decorated with love and happiness! Deb Theoret

May the Christmas season fill your home with joy, your heart with love and your life with laughter Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Heather Nelson

I must stop this Christmas from coming... but how? Gaven Crites (aka Grinch)

Merry Christmas to all! Lori Brodie

May your home be filled with happiness and joy this holiday season and throughout the new year! Judy Willsey

May the miracle of Christmas fill your hearts with warmth and love. Evan Fentiman

From All Of Us At The

Ken Alexander

100 Mile Free Press Wednesday, December 25, 2013

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Best yuletide experience STORY CONTEST RUNNER UP

YOUTH

By Halle Guimond 100 Mile House Elementary School It was the day before Christmas. I was so excited that I could barely control myself. When I sat down at the table for breakfast, my dad had made fluffy buttermilk pancakes with bacon. It was the perfect Christmas breakfast. After breakfast, we went into our living room and we decorated the beautiful smelling tree with our colourful decorations while my mom was running around the house getting all the beds made and cleaning the house like crazy for all the family we will be having. My mom said that even though it was almost Christmas, we still had to do our chores, so I bundled up and went outside to the barn and I fed the horses and the cows. Then I went out to my horses pen and I hung a little stocking on the gate. He smelled it,

then looked inside and there was a hand full of peppermints inside. “Merry Christmas Baxter,” I said with a smile and then gave him a hug around his neck and a kiss on his fuzzy muzzle. I waved good bye to Baxter and then headed inside before I froze to death. Inside, my parents were wrapping presents for our family in their room and my brothers were watching television. I took off my boots and my coat and made myself some hot coco with marshmallows in it. As I sipped my coco, I thought about what I was going to give to Baxter and when I should wrap my parent’s gifts and Tyler’s and Liam’s, too. I went to my room and pulled out all of the presents I was hiding under my bed and started wrapping them up and tying ribbons. By the time I finished wrapping, I could hear lots of voices down stairs and the sound of my cousin Claire who is three. So, I went down to see everyone and I laid all my presents under the tree. After dinner, I went

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outside to see Baxter, and to my surprise, he was very sad. He had his back turned to me, and when I called him, he did not even move. I was so worried, seeing him was upsetting and I wanted him to be happy on Christmas. I tried to feed him treats, and when he turned around, he looked frozen and full of sorrow. I wished I could see what was wrong. Just then, my mom

called me in to put out our snack for Santa and then we went to sleep. In the morning, we got everyone up and we opened up our stockings and presents. Then, I went outside and Baxter was in his pen. Then, I realized why he was upset; he wanted me to ride him. So, I hopped on him and everyone was happy after that. It was my best Christmas ever.

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