Inside
u Moola Matters P. 8 u April is... unlimited P. 4
u Celebrating diversity P. 2 u It pays to pick P. 3
Publications Mail Contract #: 40007759
PHONE: 996-8482 www.caledoniacourier.com
WEDNESDAY, April 2, 2014
NEWS BRIEFS
Election prep
Mayor and council started preparing for the fall municipal elections at their last council meeting. Mayor Rob MacDougall and the councillors present at the meeting - Councillors Riley Willick and Joan Burdeniuk, with Councillor Russ Gingrich on speaker phone - appointed this year’s election officials. The Chief Election Officer will be Emily Colombo and the Deputy Chief Election Officer will be Kevin Crook. Renumeration for the extra time the two positions require was also set at $600 and $500 respectively, maintaining the same rate as the previous election. Poll clerks hired for election day would be paid for $18 per hour, also the same rate used during the last election. Mayor and council did not make any other changes to the elections bylaw. Mayor Rob MacDougall did ask administration to work on better voter education for property owners within the municipal boundaries to ensure the provincial rules and requirements are understood. Those who do not live within the municipal boundaries but own property within the municipality boundaries can vote, but certain rules do apply, and if there is more than one name on the title, only one of the owners can vote and the person voting must have written permission from the other property owner(s). This year’s municipal elections will take place in the fall, with the exact date still being determined. To find out the rules and if you are eligible to vote, go to: http://www. cscd.gov.bc.ca/lgd/gov_ structure/elections/
VOL. 37 NO. 05 $1.30 inc. GST
Three, two, one - splashdown!
It was the Murray Ridge Ski Area Slush Cup weekend Mar. 22-23, with sunshine and snow and splashes. There were some amazing splash patterns from the slush pool, and spectators did manage to get wet. More photos on Page 6 and on The Caledonia Courier Facebook Page. Ruth Lloyd/Caledonia Courier
Housing crunch may keep people out of Fort Ruth Lloyd Caledonia Courier A report based on the local municipal rental listing shows housing availability could be keeping newcomers from staying in Fort St. James. The District of Fort St. James has been maintaining a rental database of rental accommodations and those seeking accommodations to connect renters and landlords in the area. Out of 182 total profiles over the year seeking rental housing, 60 were people looking to move to Fort St. James, about 30 per cent. “If we’re going to retain and attract workers here and families here we need good housing and with good housing comes affordability,” said Mayor Rob MacDougall. While he has not yet had time to familiarize himself with the database report or the housing study the District of Fort St. James recently adopted due to budget deliberations, he said it will be discussed soon. The annual report, generated using the stats from the District of Fort St. James’ housing database of those seeking and renting properties in the area, found that after one full year of the database, there are far more rental housing seekers than there are rental units available. “We’ve had a lack of housing for
three-plus years … now we have the documentation to support what we’ve been seeing,” said Brandi Hanterman of the Fireweed Collective Society, which operates a local women’s safe house and is part of the local housing committee. Out of the 182 profiles on the database over the year, only 48 had found accommodations. The problem extends beyond troubles for the employers in the region looking to attract workers. It also found a lack of rental units of the size and price range of those seeking accommodations, which means those on the lower end of the income scale are being squeezed out of the market. The majority of those specifying a cost of housing they were seeking said they could afford to pay between $500 and $800, while the majority of the units listed for rent were in the $801 to $1200 range. Stricter screening of renters due to high demand, Hanterman said it means some women are even staying in abusive relationships longer, with people on income assistance and those with children being screened or priced out. ‘”Because there is such a demand lots of our more marginalized individuals don’t even have an option,” she said. Over 30 per cent of those with personal information in their profiles in the
municipal database who were looking for places to rent were 30 years old or younger and 47 per cent of them were people with children. The report goes on to examine the labour implications of the housing situation and suggests the lack of availability of rental housing while newcomers seek employment in the area may make it harder for the natural resource industries looking to recruit workers to Fort St. James. “I think it’s one of those things that has to become a priority for local government, whether it’s local, regional, municipal, whatever. I think we need to look at the numbers and see where we can move things forward,” said MacDougall. He suggested the answer may lie in the community working to find an investor willing to come in and develop a range of housing. He also said he wants to look into the possibility of accessing and developing more Crown land on Stuart Lake, opening waterfront up for more people. “We’ve got a beautiful lake and there’s a limited amount of lakeshore property available,” he said. Emily Colombo, economic development officer for the District of Fort St. James has formed a housing committee to go through the housing study and database report to look at possible solu-
tions. The committee is still new but she is hoping the committee will be able to look at possible bylaw and policy changes which could help address the situation as a starting point. Councillor Riley Willick, a member of the housing committee and a building contractor, said there are different initiatives being worked on by different parts of the community, including Nak’azdli and the seniors housing co-op group. He also said there is some talk in the construction industry about possible development. “We’re trying to pull together all the info and make it available to contractors so they can make informed decisions about where the demand is,” he said. “There’s not a lot we can do but try to put forward policy that encourages development.” The Nak’azdli Band is working with the housing committee as well as working on their own initiatives to help members seeking housing. Chief Fred Sam said the band has a long list of people still seeking housing in the community and the band is working on facilitating opportunities with a financial institution for some band members to obtain affordable mortgages. He also said the band is looking into the possibility of building apartments to at least help young and single people find housing.
NEWS
A2 www.caledoniacourier.com
Wednesday, April 2, 2014 Caledonia Courier
Courier Celebrating diversity
Month-long Events Ruth Lloyd Alcohol Awareness Month Caledonia Courier National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. 212-269-7797
www.ncadd.org Ann McCormick saw an opportunity to celebrate. McCormick, the campus supervisor of the Fort St. Child Abuse Prevention Month James College of NewChild Caledonia Prevent Abuse America(CNC) campus, wanted to take a different approach when it comes to preventing 312-663-3520 racism and hate.www.preventchildabuse.org After years of working with marginalized people in Jazz Appreciation Month the community Smithsonian and afterNational the Museum Organizing Against of American History Racism 202-633-3129 and Hate (OARH) group and the Students Taking Action Against Racismwww.smithsonianjazz.org (STAR) project were finishing up, she knew there was National still work toMonth be done. Car Care Care Councilfor us to work in the commu“They were aCarcatalyst 240-333-1088 nity to foster a good neighbour policy and to celebrate the www.carcare.org good neighbours we already have,” she said. National Donate Life Month But instead of pointing out what was wrong or what U.S. Department of Health and Human Services still needed fixing, ever the optimist, she wanted to ac202-619-0257 knowledge whatwww.organdonor.gov Fort St. James does best. She wanted to celebrate something everyone who has National Carehas Monthwitnessed, how the comspent time in Fort St. Lawn James PLANET, Professional Landcare Network munity will pull together to help each other when it’s 800-395-2522 needed. www.landcarenetwork.org When people go missing, homes are destroyed, or National Parkinson Awareness Month someone becomes ill, people rally together and give National Parkinson Foundation, Inc. whatever gifts they can to help out their neighbours. 800-327-4545 www.parkinson.org “Those are the times when Fort St. James is strongest,” she said. Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month
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Hot Retail Co-op Categories Bicycles, Accessories and Supplies Lawn and Garden Motorcycles and Snowmobiles Outdoor Furnishings Recreational Vehicles Hot Manufacturer Co-op Benjamin Moore Paints Timara is putting Camp MacDougall Healthcare Grasshopper Mowers brating Fort St. James’ diverse Rolex Watch Whirlpool Corporation
together a book celecommunity.
Ruth Lloyd/Caledonia Courier
But while many different things happen in small ways all the time Special as well bring the community together, it SectiontoBuilder Themes AdBuilder Financial isn’t •necessarily the easiest thing to explain or convey. • Planning Garden “How doa we capture that?” was the question she asked • Earth Day herself. • Easter The idea she came up with was to create a book which Special Events the strength in diversity of the community. would highlight NCAA Men’s Final Four Championship NCAA Women’s Final Four Championship National Stress Awareness Day National Volunteer Week Week of the Young Child Boston Marathon National Jelly Bean Day Take Our Daughters/Sons to Work Day
ASPCA, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals 212-876-7700 www.aspca.org
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®
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To show “what we do best, who we are,” said McCormick. “Everybody has gifts here.” “It’s that celebration work that we don’t often get a chance to do.” So she applied for some provincial funding through Embrace BC and received a $5,000 grant to make it happen. Timara MacDougall, who has a strong background in the arts was hired for the job. “I jumped on it because I love doing this kind of DaffodilsHC0804.EPS thing,” she said. With two parents very active in the community (her father is Mayor Rob MacDougall and her mother, Terri-lee MacDougall does a lot of work with the curling club), she said she is inspired to also get involved. Hired on February 18, and finishing up her contract on March 27, it has been a whirlwind project -which she still hasn’t finished, but so far she has 32 pages laid out, and the hardcover book will hopefully be finished by the end of April and printed and given to the library and schools and also made available for community members to purchase if they want their own copies. “We just want it to be colourful - we want it to be a colourful celebration of our community, showing us at our best,” said MacDougall. “We all work together really well when need be.” “It’s a great town.”
4&6 5&7 16 19–25 19–25 20 22 23
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District of Fort St. James Calendar April, 2014
SUNDAY March 2009
MONDAY May 2009
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
1
S M T W T F S S MARINA M T W T F RESERVATIONS S COTTONWOOD 10am Yoga Kids @
2 1April Fool’s Day
Municipal Website: www.fortstjames.ca
56Palm Sunday
76
87
10 9 First Day of Passover
14 13
Easter Monday (Australia & Canada)
15 14
7pm Golf Course AGM
20 19
EASTER SUNDAY
21
EASTER MONDAY
20 Taurus
16 15 Tax Day 10am Food Bank 2:30pm Toy Lending Library
6:45pm Hoop Dance
4pm Strong Start
21
23 9am Strong Start
6:45pm Hoop Dance
29 Workers Mourning Day
28
26
27
12pm Strong Start
28 (Canada)
9am Strong Start
2:30pm Toy lending Administrative Library
Office: 477 Stuart Drive West
Telephone: 250-996-8233
23
25
12pm Strong Start 2pm Snrs Mtg
24 Arbor Day
26
Anzac Day (Australia) 25Ladies Date Night @
FSJSS
9am Strong Start
6:30pm Cocktails
8pm AA Mtg
7pm Dinner 8pm Auction
30 29
10am Food Bank
2:30pm Toy Lending Library
Ladies Night
AdBuilder.com
19 18
8pm AA Mtg
7pm Council Mtg
District Utility Bill Discount Deadline
April 26/14 at FSJSS
GOOD FRIDAY
12pm Strong Start
4pm Strong Start
4pm Strong Start
Cocktails:6:30pm Dinner:7:00pm Live Auction: 8:00pm All profits go to Grad Class 2014 $30 Tickets
18 17
10:30am Egg Hunt @ Library
Professionals Day
6:45pm Hoop Dance
Igniting Your Ad Sales
8pm AA Mtg
24
22 Earth Day
7pm Abraca Dazzle Magic Show @ FSJSS
27
12 11
9am Strong Start
17 16
9am Strong Start
22
11 10 Good Friday
7pm Council Mtg
1pm Cancer Support Group
12pm Strong Start
5 4
12pm Strong Start
4pm Strong Start
7pm Co-op Housing AGM
34 8pm AA Mtg
2:30pm Toy Lending Library
9am Strong Start
SATURDAY
6pm Snrs Potluck
10am Food Bank
6:45pm Hoop Dance
13Easter 12
23
98
12pm Strong Start
FRIDAY
30
“SENIORS HELPING SENIORS”
Please submit all events by Wednesday for the next Wednesday paper distribution. office@fortstjames.ca
1 2 3 4 Cottonwood 5 6 7 1 2open from marina will be Library 8 9 10 11 12 13May 14 16 3 -4September 5 6 7 21, 8 9 2014. 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 6:45pm Reservations for boat moorage will be accepted on aHoop firstDance come 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 17 fi18 20 21 22 23 rst 19 serve basis 29 30 31 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 starting April 7th, 2014. 31
THURSDAY
Transportation Service Daily Services VOLUNTEERS NEEDED More Info ! 250-996-8233
Utility Bills & Business Licenses
will be mailed out this week. Receive 5% off utilities if paid by April 30th, 2014. Seniors receive 50% discount if paid by April 30th, 2014. A 3% Penalty Fee will be applied to all late utility payments. All new businesses operating within the municipality must apply for a business license.
• AdBuilder® Retail • AdBuilder® Classified • Co-op Sales Ideas
Follow us on Twitter: @DFSJames
Like us at Facebook: District of Fort St. James
Email: office@fortstjames.ca
Caledonia Courier Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Courier
NEWS
www.caledoniacourier.com A3
RHB ScHmitz de GRace ChartereD INCOME TAXaCCountantS PREPARATION
It pays to pick
• • • • • •
Fort St. James Office Fort St. James Office 169 Stuart Drive (Lakeshore Realty) Fort St. James, BC 169V0J Stuart Drive 1P0 (Fridays from February 6 to June 12) To schedule an appointment, please call To schedule an appointment, please call 1-800-976-7780 (toll-free) 1-800-976-7780 (toll-free) E-mail: Josh@rhngroup.ca robin@rhbpa.ca www.rhbcpa.ca Website: www.rhngroup.ca
Ruth Lloyd Caledonia Courier
VEHICLE AUCTION THURSDAY • 6:30PMSHARP SHARP! THURSDAYSEPTEMBER MARCH 2026TH• 6:30PM ALSO... SELLING 75-100 CARS, ON HAND 3-5TRUCKS, REPOS 10SPORT VEHICLES FROM ON HANDWILL WILLBEBEAPPROX APPROX 5BANK REPOS & 20&&VEHICLES FROM VANS UTILITY VEHICLES FROM MAJOR FLEET, VEHICLE MANAGEMENT LEASE, DEALER, PRIVATE & FINANCIAL ALSO...Selling Cars,Cars, Trucks, VansVans and INSTITUTIONS. SUVs from ALSO... Selling 75-100 Trucks, & SUVs from Major Major Fleet Fleet Lease, Lease, Dealer Dealer && Private Private Financial Financial Institutions Institutions
YOUHAVE HAVEAAVEHICLE VEHICLEFOR FORTHIS THISAUCTION, AUCTION ITIT MUST MUST BE BE ON ON THE THE GROUND GROUND BY IFIFYOU MONDAY, SEPTEMBER AT 5PM - SPACE PERMITTING MONDAY, MARCH 1723RD AT 5PM - SPACE PERMITTING - SEE- SEE YOUYOU SALESALE DAY!DAY!
DL 9069
It pays to pick - pick bottles that is. And cans. Given April is home to Pitch-In Week, and as the snow recedes an unbelievable amount of garbage becomes visible, having accumulated from the winter months, I thought I might take the chance to highlight some of the super-inspiring people in the community who help us all out by cleaning up after us. Del and Marci Whitford are one couple who do just that, and while they are doing us a service, their service has also paid off. Marci Whitford said she was inspired by some others in the community (who I hope to highlight as well in a future edition) when she found out how much they had saved up, simply by picking up bottles and cans. So, she and her husband Del, who walk their dog every day, decided to begin collecting, and would pick up about a grocery bag of returnable containers on each and every walk and gave herself an end goal. She decided “it’d be fun to collect enough for a kayak - just to see if I could do it,” she said. “This was sort of like an experiment.” She was so enthusiastic for her experiment she had to ease up when a friend she would go biking with told her she was going to stop riding with her if they had to keep stopping to pick up cans and bottles. Marci said she would end up with more than she could carry on her bike on some outings, and would be teetering down the road with bags hanging off of her bicycle. Was the experiment successful? Well, after less than a year, the couple had managed to earn themselves $600 towards their goal, and on Kijiji they found two used kayaks for this amount, reaching twice the goal she set out for, and this summer they will be able to enjoy the rewards of their labour together. “That was just so exciting,” she said. Managing to purchase two kayaks was an overachievement, and impressive given they walk through town about 40 minutes at a time with their dog, and yet can still get some returnables nearly every time. “I can’t believe the bottles and cans that are thrown out everyday,” she said. So, with Pitch-In week in mind, maybe don’t just walk
Central Interior Auctions Ltd. 4174 COWART RD. Prince George
562-5200 • FAX (250) 562-9616 CASH • INTERAC • BANK DRAFT TERMS OF SALE •• CERTIFIED CHEQUE • LETTERS OF CREDIT Website: www.ciauctions.bc.ca (250)
Marci Whitford (pictured) and her husband Del walk their dog every day and pick up bottles and cans when they do.
Ruth Lloyd/Caledonia Courier
on by that can or bottle. Instead, pick it up and sooner than you might think you could treat yourself to something truly worth your while.
Fort St. James RCMP report Some of the highlights of the week of March 20-26 for the Fort St. James RCMP. Cougar sighting On Mar. 20 a female reported seeing a cougar near the Sunset Court Apartments. RCMP responded and did patrols but did not find any sign of the animal. The Conservation Officer was notified but so far nothing has been found. Residents are reminded to be aware and watch their pets as well as small children and notify Conservation Officers or police if a cougar is spotted in a residential area. Five Corners crash Mar. 21 at 9:15 a.m., RCMP responded to a collision at the “five corners” intersection of
CorPorate anD PerSonaL taX (Personal and Business) FInanCIaL StateMent PreParatIon aSSuranCe BooKKeePInG anD Data deProCeSSInG GRACE RHN SCHMITZ eState PLannInG Chartered Accountants CoMPuter ConSuLtInG
Stuart Drive, Douglas Avenue and Highway 27. Upon arrival, RCMP said they found a Toyota minivan in the southbound lane over the curb up against the flagpole. Upon interviewing those involved, RCMP said a Ford pickup had reportedly failed to yield after stopping at the stop sign, heading west past the curling rink. The minivan had not yet cleared the intersection, and the pickup hit the back end of the minivan, pushing it up against the pole. A ticket was issued to the driver of the pickup for failure to yield after stopping. No serious injuries resulted from the collision, but the
van did have to be towed from the scene. Punk in Drublic Mar. 22 at approximately 7 p.m., an RCMP officer eastbound on Elm Street observed a male walking down the street shouting obscenities. The suspect reportedly had a can of beer in his hand and exhibited signs of intoxication. The RCMP member initially tried to take the man into custody for public intoxication, but the suspect refused to follow directions from the member and reportedly attempted to punch and kick the arresting officer. The suspect was subdued on the ground and was instead arrested for assaulting a police officer.
Community Events
Community Events are free of charge as they are sponsored by the Caledonia Courier COMING EVENTS... Will appear as space is available, free of charge in this section. Coming events are available to non-profit organizations only. This area is not intended for thank you submissions or selling products. It is simply a place for nonprofit organizations a place to announce upcoming free activities. You can e-mail your item to advertising@ominecaexpress. com or by fax: 567-2070. Your organizations’ announcement can also be dropped off at our office located at #111-250 Stuart Drive, Fort St. James. Decision of the publisher is final. *** St Patrick’S anglican church...Fort St James, with the churches of Fort St James will provide Free Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day from noon to 2.00pm. Everyone welcome! *** ThE NEChakO VallEy FESTIVal OF ThE PErFOrMING arTS... has a new website. www.musicfestivalweb. com/nechako. Please visit the website for syllabus and registration information. You can view the syllabus online. If a paper copy is required, there is a limited number available at the Vanderhoof Public Library. Registration for the festival will be online starting Jan. 1, 2014. The festival will take place from Apr. 12-25, 2014 with the festival concert happening on Apr. 27, 2014. *** FOrt St JaMES chriStian OutrEach grOuP FOOD Bank SchEDulE...10.00am to 12.00noon, on Wednesdays, February 26, March 12, March 26, April 9, April 23, May 7, May 21, June 11, June 25, July 9, July 23, August 13, August 27, September 10, September 24, October 8, October 22, November 12, November 26, December 10. *** UNTOlD TraUMa...author seeks contributions from nonFirst Nations students and staff who experienced Catholic residential or day schools abuse in Northern BC. For more info email Kathyhansen1@gmail.com ***
FIrEwEED STOPPING ThE VIOlENCE & OUTrEaCh SErVICE For those who believe all is possible!...Provides free Confidential, Safe, and Supportive counselling and outreach services for women. Hours of Service: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and every other Friday. Location: Room 203, 349 Stuart Drive, Fort St James, BC Phone: (250) 996-1214 Fax: (250) 996-7647 Email: fire. or@telus.net *** ST PaTrICk’S aNGlICaN ChUrCh... hosts a free lunch every Tuesday from 11.00am - 1.00pm. All are welcome. This lunch is made possible through the generous giving of time and resources,by many people in the region, including The Roman Catholic Church, Camp Living Water, E-Free Church and many other individuals. We wish to thank all those who contribute their labour to this program as well as those who provide food and other necessities. We also run a small food bank on Tuesday morning, and are very thankful for all who contribute to this endeavor. For further information please call Gwen Andrews 567-6744. *** SErVICE TIMES... at St Patrick’s Anglican Church, Fort St James, will be 10:30 am every Sunday. Free lunch every Tues between 11-1pm with music and Prayer. Please come and join us. *** FIrEwEED ClOThES DrIVE... The Fireweed Safe Haven is doing a winter clothes drive. We are looking for jackets, boots, snow pants, mitts, hats, scarves, fleeces, etc, for men, women and children. The items will then be given to families in the community that need them. If you do not have anything at home that you can part with but still wish to contribute, you can purchase mitts, socks, or thermal underwear. Please drop items off at the Fireweed Safe Haven. For more information please contact Talia at (250) 996-8081. Every little bit helps. *** aUxIlIary TO STUarT lakE hOSPITaL... Monthly meeting 2nd Wednesday each month. Hospital Cafeteria 7:00 p.m.
FOrT ST. JaMES PUBlIC lIBrary hOUrS... Tuesday 11:30-8:00 Wednesday 11:30-4:30 Thursday 11:30-4:30 Friday 11:30-8:00 Saturday 11:00-3:00 *** NEChakO VallEy COMMUNITy SErVICES SOCIETy...Child and Youth Mental Health and Counseling Services available at no cost. Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Call 9967645 for appointment. *** FOrT TraP aND haNDGUN ClUB... meets last Sunday of every month. Contact (Sue) at 250-9967728 (h) for more information. *** FOrT ST. JaMES SEarCh & rESCUE... steering committee meetings first Tuesday of every month. 7:00 p.m. above the Fort St. James Firehall. Training is the third Tuesday of every month at the Firehall at 7 p.m. New members welcome. For more information please contact Paul at 250.996.7478 or Rod at 250.996.7269 *** MUSIC MakErS...New members always WELCOME. Not everyone has to be on stage, there is lots of work behind the scenes. Call Heike Fonda at 250-996-7006 for more info. *** ThE ThrIFT STOrE...has a new name! “The Bargain Basement”. We are still at the same location, across from Shoppers Food Mart. Donations of clean clothing and small housewares are greatly appreciated. Please, no books or magazines. Proceeds are used for community needs. Open Wed-Sat, 12 noon to 4pm. *** PUBlIC SErVICE aNNOUNCEMENT...If you know anyone, including a child, who has been abused or harmed by a psychiatrist call the Citizens Commission on Human Rights at: 1-800-670-2247. *** aa MEETINGS...Thursdays at 8:00pm. United Church on 2nd Ave West. call 250-996-8290 for more information.
A4 www.caledoniacourier.com
AUDIT
Editorial Page
Wednesday, April 2, 2014 Caledonia Courier
The Caledonia Courier is a member of the British
Distributed every Wednesday in Fort St. James
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• Column
April is… whatever you make it Ruth Lloyd Caledonia Courier I have been bringing up the onset of spring and the in-between time a lot lately, and this is because it is something I think about. A lot. The in-between seasons are great for getting certain things done, because we are not distracted by all the things we may like to do outside: snowboarding, cross-country skiing, biking, mountain biking, hiking, swimming, rock climbing, the list gets longer and longer. Hockey season is over now, soccer is not yet here. While the weather outside can’t make up its mind if its spring, or winter, it becomes a great time to get some indoor things done which are easily avoided when trying to make the most of outdoor time. Things like spring cleaning and taxes. But we need fun things to do as well. April as a month has a whole lot of causes associated with it as well which can help anyone to fill a little empty time a person may have. National Volunteer Week is in April, a great time to look into some of the awesome volunteer opportunities in the communityand there are lots! In Fort St. James, a great resource to find out what is out there and find the right fit for your volunteer time and energy is Volunteer Fort St. James, an organization whose sole purpose is to connect volunteers with organizations and opportunities which interest them. You can email volunteerfsj@telus.net or phone 9968284 to get started. Earth Day and Pitch-In Weeks are in April, always a great excuse to go for a walk and pick up some trash while you’re at it, making a difference to the community and your health, a win-win for everybody. Cancer is also a big cause associated with April, and the fresh
Don’t let the fickle weather get you down in April, instead take advantage of the opportunity to do something a little bit different. Instagram image by @ruthannelloyd
daffodils and daffodil pins being sold in communities across Canada will help raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society. The organization says their goal is to eradicate cancer and they help fund clinical trials and other initiatives. April is also home to Arts and Culture Week, so April is a great time to hunker down and hide from the mud indoors while you do a little creative crafting or take in some art or get involved in culture. If you can’t think of any projects to do, just go to Pinterest and look at the DIY and Crafts posts, you’ll be overwhelmed
Look for us online at : caledoniacourier.com
and if you can not find something you like, well, you must not like anything, because there is so much on there you can literally spend hours just looking at project ideas - I know this from experience. In fact, even if you’re not that crafty, you can just look at Pinterest and marvel at all the creative ideas and people out there and run out of time to do anything yourself. I also know this from experience. If you want company to do some artistic or cultural activities, then get in touch with one of the many cultural organizations in the community. In Fort St. James, culture might not be as visible as in some places, but it is there. The Community Arts Council of Fort St. James hosts workshops of many types, helps put on live musical performances and visual arts shows. The Music Makers are the performing arts theatre group in town, putting on fantastic shows which always draw a crowd. Music on the Mountain Society hosts live music performances in town and puts on the amazing festival of music and art at the end of August each year. All of these organizations can always use members and volunteers with fresh ideas and energy. So do not despair of the in-between season, but instead take advantage of the opportunity to try something new, pursue a new passion or give back to the community. Celebrate the season of change. More information: https://www.facebook.com/FortArts http://lovefortstjames.com/businesses/community-artscouncil-of-fort-st-james http://momfestival.com/ https://www.facebook.com/pages/Music-Makers-Fort-StJames/284937858240154
E-mail us at : newsroom@caledoniacourier.com
NEWS NDP takes aim at Multi Material BC recycling ‘failure’
Caledonia Courier Wednesday, April 2, 2014
By Jeff Nagel
BC Local News The NDP is accusing the provincial government of handing over control of B.C.’s blue box recycling system to Toronto-based multinational executives who will be unaccountable while B.C. businesses and households pay higher costs. Opposition small business critic Lana Popham raised the issue of Multi Material BC in the Legislature Monday, calling on the province to change course before the agency’s new system for recycling packaging and printed paper takes effect May 19. “If government doesn’t take a step back, B.C.’s recycling system is going to end up in a giant dumpster,” Popham said. “The control of recycling should never have been outsourced to the large corporate
interests based in Ontario and abroad. This is a profound failure. This program needs to be paused and the entire concept reconsidered.” Popham’s comments follow the launch earlier this month of a campaign against MMBC by a coalition of business groups, including the newspaper industry, who say they can’t afford to pay high fees imposed under the new system. The provincially mandated system is designed to make generators of packaging and paper pay to collect and process it, but business critics contend it will be onerous due to high costs, paperwork and reporting obligations. “The Liberal government loves to claim they’re getting rid of red tape,” Popham said in an interview Monday. “So it’s quite ironic because MMBC is a Godzilla-sized red tape monster.”
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Although MMBC is registered as a society, Popham called it a “dummy corporation” because two of its three directors are Torontobased senior executives with Loblaws and Unilever, while the third is MMBC managing director Allan Langdon. Popham said the province should force MMBC to give B.C. stakeholders majority control. The Saanich South NDP MLA said the MMBC system will be “dangerously close to monopoly” resulting in less competition and innovation in recycling. She also said municipalities have been pressured into signing contracts with inadequate compensation for their costs, the threat of penalties for contamination and a gag clause. MMBC’s new recycling fees on businesses will be passed along to consumers through higher prices, Popham
said, calling it a “hidden tax” that won’t be transparent to consumers. Meanwhile, she says cities that the government says will save money are unlikely to reduce property taxes that households already pay for recycling. “The slogan for MMBC should probably be ‘Recycle once, but pay twice.’” In some cities where MMBC won’t provide services, such as Kamloops, residents will pay for nothing if retail prices rise broadly, Popham added. MMBC says it will take new types of containers and packaging not collected in B.C. before. But Popham noted glass will no longer be collected curbside in many cities and there’s little evidence the system will improve recycling rates overall. She said a smarter approach would have been to extend the
beverage can depositrefund system to more containers, such as milk cartons and laundry detergent jugs. Liberal MLA Eric Foster (Vernon Monashee) responded in the Legislature, saying the province made changes to exempt most businesses from MMBC fees and paperwork if they earn less than $1 million in revenue, generate less than one tonne per year of packaging, or operate as a single outlet. “We’ve got all kinds of validation on this — chambers of commerce, local government, opportunities for local government to either continue the way they’re doing it or to have MMBC put their contractors in there to pick up,” said Foster, who serves on the government’s environment and land use committee. “MMBC came forward as an opportunity to change people’s way
of doing business and to put the onus on the original producers of
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING STUART LAKE GOLF CLUB THE ANNUAL MEETING AND ELECTION OF DIRECTORS WILL BE HELD AT THE CLUBHOUSE PREMISES AT 2704 STONES BAY ROAD, ON APRIL 14, 2014 AT 7:00PM
All members and interested persons are welcome to attend. Come out and find out what your community golf course is all about and the plans for our future. If you have an inquiry please address to the chairman, Stuart Lake Golf Club, P.O. Box 158, Fort St. James B.C. V0J 1P0
“A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN OUR REGION” 37, 3RD Avenue, PH: 250-692-3195 PO Box 820, TF: 800-320-3339 Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 FX: 250-692-3305 www.rdbn.bc.ca E-MAIL:inquiries@rdbn.bc.ca
MEETING SCHEDULE 2014 April 3, 2014.......RDBN Board/Committee Meetings/ SNRHD Meeting April 17, 2014.....RDBN Board Meeting/ SNRHD Meeting May 1, 2014 .......RDBN Committee Meetings May 15, 2014 .....RDBN Board Meeting/ SNRHD Meeting Meetings tentatively commence at 10:30 a.m. Please call (250) 692-3195/1-800-320-3339 for further information
PUBLIC IS WELCOME
Mount Milligan reorganizes
There were some changes for 40 Mount Milligan employees last week, with some leaving and some being moved around. Rumours of layoffs were rampant, and some employees were told they were being let go, but then later told there was still something for them, possibly due to administrative errors. Ken Watson, vice president general manager of Mount Milligan said “The Mount Milligan mine recently realigned 40 hourly employees from mine operations to several other departments within the organization.”
the waste product or the recyclable product to reduce.”
Watson said the realignment was due to a change in the mine plan for the rest of 2014. The change means ten operations staff from each of the four shifts needed to be transferred to other departments. “The realignment was done on a voluntary basis,” he said. “All but two of the affected employees voluntarily took other positions at the site.” Employees choosing not to change to the positions offered them resigned. Watson said he expects most of the forty mine operations positions will be reactivated towards the end of this year.
Piano as an art form The Nechako Valley Performing Arts Festival will have a piano adjudicator who teaches piano but also has a head for business. Graham Yates found his element when he learned that even as a pianist he did not have to play all by himself. Since then he almost exclusively appears with singers, instrumentalists, choirs, chamber groups, pit bands and orchestras all over western Canada. Yates completed a master’s in piano performance at Brandon University with a focus on collaborative playing under Dr. Alexander Tselyakov, whose technical and emotional sensitivity has been compared with Horowitz’s. He also owes a musical debt to his previous teacher Dr. Sandra Joy Friesen who continues to inspire him to love all the strange and unusual kinds of music. He also
Graham yates will be this year’s piano adjudicator for the Nechako Valley Performing Arts Festival. Submitted photo
holds a master of business administration. Lower mainlanders may have seen Yates in ensemble performances at Ryerson United Church’s summer concert series, the French Alliance, Surrey’s 2010 Olympic
Flashback Ceremony, Rose Gellert Hall in Langley, Bakerview Church’s “Music on a Wednesday”, and most of Chilliwack’s choral and orchestral groups. In 2012 and 2013 he was a featured concerto soloist in Chilliwack Symphony Orchestra’s Piano Extravaganza. Yates holds a master of business administration from Trinity Western University, and by combining business with his passion for music, he works to create opportunities for others to experience the joy of community musicmaking as Principal of the Chilliwack Academy of Music, Administrator of the Bakerview Music Academy, and President of the BC Association of Community Music Schools. He enjoys teaching a limited number of private students, has instructed music courses at Trinity Western University, and is an adjudi-
cator at regional music festivals all over B.C.
ADVERTISING DEADLINES! Due to the Easter Long Weekend Good Friday, April 18 Holiday Please note the following changes April 23 issue - ad deadline: Courier: Thursday, April 17 - 11am Express: Thursday, April 17 - 11am OFFICE HOURS: CLOSED - Friday, April 18, 2014
ADvertiser STUART NECHAKO
Reaching Every Door
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Courier
NEWS
Slush Cup 2014
Wednesday, April 2, 2014 Caledonia Courier
Slush Cup Sunday at Murray Ridge Ski Area featured the Cassiar Cannonball, Bathtub Races and the Slush Cup splashdown, with lots of prizes, though the colder weather saw few people show up until later in the afternoon. Events were behind schedule, but had still high numbers of participants.
Student of the Week ✦ Grade 10 Fort St. James Secondary 15 years old ✦ Nominated by Barb Wenger
Markus Nielsen
Markus is an excellent student who had straight A’s last term,” she said. Markus is always willing to help other students in class so they can be successful as well and he plays on the Falcons Senior Boys Basketball team.
Trade connects us. Trade
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Farming Families like Greg, Mélise, Maya and Megan in Sexsmith, Alberta depend on the Port Of Prince Rupert. Our gateway connects their agricultural products to overseas markets, which means jobs and prosperity for people in Farming families like Greg, Mélise, Maya and Me western Canada. Our terminals may be located in depend the Port connections of Prince Rupert. Our Prince Rupert, but on we’re building clear across thegatewa country - and the globe. Learn about the value of trade at products to overseas markets, which means jobs www.rupertport.com/connections
Trade connects us.
Clockwise from top right: Youngest and fastest in her category, birthday girl Vienna. An unknown racer in the Cassiar Cannonball clearly enjoying the speed. Team Awesome won the Bathtub Race, with four teams entered this year. Beau White’s team placed second in the bathtub race, with the Road Rash machine. Harley Everson backflipped shirtless into the slush pool, for his 19th birthday celebration. (sequence of three) Splashdown into the pool. More photos on Facebook.
Canada. terminals be located in Farming families like western Greg, Mélise, Maya andOur Megan in Sexsmith,may Alberta depend on the Port ofbuilding Prince Rupert. Our gateway clear connects their agricultural connections across the country—a products to overseas markets, which means jobs and prosperity for people in the value of trade at www.rupertport.com/connec western Canada. Our terminals may be located in Prince Rupert, but we’re building connections clear across the country—and the globe. Learn about the value of trade at www.rupertport.com/connections.
Ruth Lloyd/Caledonia Courier
Trade ad drafts.indd 2
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Caledonia Courier Wednesday, April 2, 2014
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“We have plans to build a safer, better pipeline. We also have plans to operate it that way.” Janet Holder, Leader of Northern Gateway
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS We are working on those conditions with the same diligence that we are applying to the tough conditions mandated by the Province. In many cases, these conditions reflect the world class voluntary land safety measures that Northern Gateway proposed during the Review process. A BETTER, SAFER PIPELINE Our land safety measures primarily focus on spill prevention. With new standards in pipeline design and integrity, construction, monitoring and project management, we want to build a better, safer pipeline. A RESPECTFUL ROUTE After a decade of planning, we have mapped out a pipeline route that will have as little
impact as possible on British Columbia’s terrain and neighbouring communities. In fact, 70% of the route utilizes previously disturbed lands, including old forestry roads, cut blocks and other disturbances. A WATCHFUL EYE We are equally committed to setting new standards when it comes to Emergency Preparedness and Response. In fact, JRP Conditions #174 and #175 require us to file separate emergency response plans for every 10-km section of pipe. That’s over 110 separate plans that include details covering specific habitat to protect. Our plans also include realistic training programs and exercises, staffing of all pump stations, 24/7 monitoring, advanced leak detection systems and more remotely-controlled isolation valves. We’re doing all this hard work because we are committed to developing the most sound, sensible and sensitive approach to designing, constructing and operating the Project.
Janet Holder, Leader of Northern Gateway
Learn more at gatewayfacts.ca
Working in partnership with B.C. and Alberta First Nations and Métis Communities, and leading energy companies in Canada
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I’m Janet Holder, leader of Northern Gateway. Of the 209 conditions set by the Joint Review Panel, over 60 deal specifically with land safety and related environmental safeguards.
NEWS Mool Matters:
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Nechako Valley Festival of Performing Arts The Nechako Valley Festival of Performing Arts will be taking place April 14-24, 2014. The Festival Concert will be Sunday afternoon, 2:30 pm April 27. All events will be held at the Vanderhoof Christian Fellowship Church. We welcome anyone and everyone to come and support our local musicians by observing the piano, speech, strings and band sessions. Admission is by donation; piano is April 14- 16; Speech is April 23 and Strings and Band is April 24. We hope to see you there! We are pleased to host a piano workshop by Adjudicator of Piano, Graham Yates, entitled “How to Make Music from the Heart” . This workshop will be held Wednesday, April 16th 3:30 -4:30 pm. We are also pleased to offer portraits Wednesday April 16th after the workshop and also Wednesday April 23rd after the Speech Arts sessions for performers on piano, violin/strings and speech arts. Information will be available at festival. Print programs will be available early the week of March 31. The program will also be available online. Please see our website for more information. www.musicfestivalweb.com/nechako. We wish all our performers a successful festival experience!
Courier
Wednesday, April 2, 2014 Caledonia Courier
Should I pay down my debt or invest in my retirement? Joan Burdeniuk Contributor So you filed your taxes on time and have a nice return coming your way. Now what? The age old question arises should I pay down my debt, invest in my retirement, or go wild and get those fancy camo car seats in the window at Northland Auto? Well the answer is a definite - it depends… Consider these factors • Type of debt. The higher the interest rate on the debt the more important it is to pay it down as quickly as possible. Remember that all debt is not created equal. So prioritize your debts, pay off high interest rate credit cards first, then move to lines of credits and finally your mortgage. • Amount of debt. If you are carrying a large amount of high-interest debt, you’ll be paying a lot of interest. Your priority will probably be to pay down this debt. If you owe a smaller amount, or if most of your debt is low interest, like a mortgage then you will have more options. There are several mortgage vs RRSP calculators available. Take some time to play around with the numbers or go in and sit down with your financial planner, they’re weird they like this kind of stuff. • Your age. The closer you are to retirement, the more important it is
to ensure that you have saved enough to support yourself in your retirement. However if you have high interest rate debt you may still want to clear it up before putting more money into your RRSP. It is important to try and enter into retirement mortgage and debt free. • Your tax bracket. If you are currently in a higher tax bracket, it may be more important for you to reduce the tax you are paying. Keep in mind that RRSP’s are tax deferral plans, not tax avoidance plans. Ideally you want to be withdrawing your RRSP’s when you are in a lower tax bracket, so when you are earning less money. If you think that you will be earning a higher income in retirement (this can happen if you have multiple pensions or if you are self-employed and plan on selling your business) then a tax free savings account might be a better option for you. • Type of RRSP. There may be benefits to your RRSP that will encourage you to go this way. For example if you have a group RRSP that receives matching contributions from your employer you will want to maximize this contribution. • Are you a nervous Nellie? Ask yourself what keeps you up at night. And be honest. If it is the idea of debt then pay down your mortgage. If it is the fear of not having enough for your golden years ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH then invest in your (Across from the Petrocan Station) retirement. And remember its SUNDAY LITURGY: Saturday 7:30 pm & Sunday 10:30 am okay to have some DAILY MASS: Monday - Friday 9:00 am fun. Just be aware of PASTORAL TEAM: FATHER FRANK SALMON 250-996-8343 the true cost. So by all SR. PAT MACAULAY, SR. DIVINA PEDRO means set aside a bit 250-996-2275 each month for those seat covers, and enjoy.
OUR LADY OF THE SNOWS
THE CHURCHES OF FORT ST. JAMES
Lost and found:
A happy hunting tale A search and rescue story submitted by Anton Schneider, a past resident of Fort St. James. Schneider lived in Fort St. James from 1958 to 1967 with his wife Theresa and their four children. This is one of the many tales the 85-year-old still recalls from his time here in Fort. The fire hall siren went off at about 6 a.m. and in no time flat nearly all of us were there waiting for instructions. A policeman informed us an 85-yearold hunter didn’t come back the evening before, and had been with his friends hunting about five miles north of Fort St. James.
The man had gone out hunting by himself, heading west from the North Road, and so about 20 volunteers assembled where he entered the forest and began searching. We thought we might be looking for a heart attack or some other form of medical distress, so we spread out along the road about 20 feet apart and the outside person tied ribbons to show the edge of our search area. We went about half a mile up to a creek, then moved over and did a similar swath coming back. We did this back and forth for some time. Then, the elderly
hunter wandered out of the timber on the east side of the road. Looking right at us he demanded to know what so many people were doing out in the woods. We told him we were looking for a lost hunter and he asked who was lost. We told him he was. The hunter was quite peeved we thought he was lost and said we were scaring all the moose away with the noise. Unknown to his friends, he had crossed the road the day before and hunted the east side. When it became late, he decided to sit under a tree and sleep he would not admit he
had been lost. So we all went home to Sunday dinner.
FRE ne Telepho y r Directo
RECRUITMENT Recruiting SUPERSTARS
Start Here
hako 2014
Stuart/Nec
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The 2014 Stuart Nechako Telephone Directory may
... Serving hoof, Vander mes, . Ja Fort St Lake, ke, Fraser culz La aser, Clu Fort Fr ie and area Tach ed by rier Publish nia Cou & Caledo Express assimo nne DiM Omineca by Dya Picture
be picked up at the following locations Vanderhoof - Omineca Express - Co-op Mall - Chamber Office/ Visitors Centre Fort Fraser - Petro Can Fraser Lake - Village Office Fort St. James - Overwaitea
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Caledonia Courier Wednesday, April 2, 2014
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NEWS
The Learning Hub The Learning Hub animal babies word find
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Canadian Tire honoured
Animal Babies Word Find
Spring is often the time for animal babies!! See if you can find the Spring is often the animal time for baby animalnames. babies! See can find animal baby names. Win a book! All ages welcome to enter. Winif ayou book! All the ages welcome to enter. Drop off your entry with your name and phone number at the Learning Hub in the Goodwin Bldg #250 - 122 Stuart Dr. East before 6 p.m. and pick up your book. We are open until 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday and closed Fridays and holidays.
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Word Key: CALF COLT CRIA DUCKLING FARROW FAWN FINGERLING FLEDGLING FOAL FRY GOSLING HATCHLING KIT KITTEN LEVERET MAGGOT NYMPH OWLET PIGLET PUP SHOAT SQUAB TADPOLE WHELP
FARROW GOSLING NYMPH TADPOLE
Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited has been deemed one of ‘Canada's Best Managed Companies’ for 2013. This honour was given in recognition of the company's high-performing culture and innovative business strategy and is part of a program sponsored by Deloitte, CIBC, National Post, Queen's School of Business, and Mackay CEO Forums. "It's a great honour to be recognized as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies," said Doug Nathanson, chief human resources officer, Canadian Tire Corporation. "We have seen a significant cultural shift in the past few years at Canadian Tire that has increased employee engagement, positively impacted financial results, and heightened pride in the Canadian Tire brand – all of which is a testament to our dedicated employees and strong leadership team." Established in 1993, ‘Canada's Best Managed Companies’ is a business awards program recognizing Canadian companies that have implemented world-class business practices and created value in innovative ways.
FAWN HATCHLING OWLET WHELP
THE STUART NECHAKO ADVERTISER CAN BE
PICKED UP AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS...
Drop off your entry with your name and phone number at the Learning Hub in the Goodwin Bldg #250 - 122 Stuart Dr. East before 6 p.m. and pick up your book. We are open until 6 p.m. Monday to VANDERHOOF Thursday and closed Fridays and holidays.
Omineca Express office Vanderhoof Co-op - Grocery Co-op Mall - Lobby Co-op Mall - Rear Entrance Vanderhoof Co-op C Store Extra Foods Vanderhoof Post Office Riverside Place Nechako View Senior’s Home Speedway Road Mapes CJ’s Trailer Court Loop Road Prairiedale Braeside Road Jones Road Sob Lake Road Redfern Drive Sinkut Frontage Road Kenny Dam & Lakes Road J&S Restaurant
ENDAKO
Endako Bar & Grill
CLUCULZ LAKE BROOKsiDE REsORt FRAsER LAKE
Par 3 Sports Fraser Lake Rexall Fraser Lake Building Supplies
ENGEN
Engen Road Giesbrecht Frontage Road
FORt FRAsER
Fort Fraser Petro Can
FORt st JAMEs
Lakeshore Realty Sana’aih Market Overwaitea Foods Fort Loonie Bin Fas Gas Plus Lakeside Pharmacy
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Wednesday,April April2,2,2014 2014 Caledonia Wednesday, Caledonia Courier Courier
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ADVERTISE in the LARGEST OUTDOOR PUBLICATION IN BC The 2014-2016 BC Hunting Regulations Synopsis
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Please call Annemarie 1.800.661.6335 email: fish@blackpress.ca
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250-996-8482 E-Mail: wendy@ ominecaexpress. com Caledonia Courier published every Wednesday Stuart/Nechako Advertiser published every Friday ADVERTISING DEADLINES Courier -- Friday, 11-noon Advertiser -- Tuesday, 12-noon
TERMS & CONDITIONS Advertisements should be read on the first publication day. 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. DISCRIMINATION LEGISLATION: Advertisers are reminded that provincial legislation forbids the publication of any advertisement which discriminated 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 advertisements and in all other advertising material appearing in this edition of the Omineca Express. Permission to reproduce wholly or in any part and in any form whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or offset process in a publication, must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any unauthorized reproduction will be subject to recourse in law.
Timeshare CANCEL YOUR timeshare. NO risk program stop mortgage & maintenance payments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consultation. Call us now. We can help! Call 1-888-356-5248.
Employment Business Opportunities GET FREE Vending machines. Can earn $100,000 + per year. All cash. Retire in just 3 years. Protected territories. Full details call now 1866-668-6629 www.tcvend.com LUCRATIVE TURNKEY BUSINESS $43,900 Produce landscape & contractor supplies Requires area less than 1500sf www.universalblock.com 1-613-273-2836
Forestry WANTED: FORESTRY Technician for sawmill complex in Alberta. Experienced in planning and harvesting operations. Full time permanent. E-mail resume: njb_ins@telusplanet.net.
RES MANAGER VICTORIA1 F/T + 1 P/T. 55 unit building. Office on-site. Rent discount. Car required. Experience an asset. Start late May/June. Fax: (250)920-5437.
We’re on the net at www.bcclassified.com
Education/Trade Schools APARTMENT/CONDO MANAGER TRAINING
• Certified Home Study Course • Jobs Registered Across Canada • Gov. Certified www.RMTI.ca / 604.681.5456 or 1.800.665.8339
INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR SCHOOL. NO Simulators. In-the-seat training. Real world tasks. Weekly start dates. Job board! Funding options. SignUp online! iheschool.com 1-866-399-3853
CAREER OPPORTUNITY DIRECTOR OF FINANCE The District of Fort St. James invites applications for the position of Director of Finance. The successful applicant will: . have overall responsibility for the municipality’s financial services including statutory duties assigned under the Community Charter. . provide advice and support to staff in strategic planning, budgeting, financial reporting and monitoring, risk management, and performance management.
Help Wanted
JOB OPPORTUNITIES SUMMER STUDENT PARKS WORKERS The District of Fort St. James is now accepting applications for temporary full-time Student Parks Workers to work from May to August 2014, 40 hours per week (some evenings and weekends). Duties will include maintaining lawns at municipal parks, gardening, garbage pickup, and other related duties as assigned. To be considered, applications must be received no later than April 11, 2014 at 4:00 p.m. Please send resume to: Dave Stewart Public Works Superintendent District of Fort St. James PO Box 640 / 477 Stuart Drive West Fort St. James, BC V0J 1P0 e-mail publicworks@fortstjames.ca
Details and full job description can be viewed here: http://bit.ly/Q8UHhv. Interested applicants May submit a letter of interest, detailed resume and references by 4:00 p.m. on April 11, 2014 to: Kevin Crook, CAO District of Fort St. James PO Box 640 477 Stuart Dr. W. Fort St. James, BC V0J 1P0 Email: cao@fortstjames.ca
Help Wanted
Preference will be given to local students who are registered to return to school in the fall and possess a class 5 Driver’s Licence. We appreciate all applications but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Help Wanted
Looking for a great summer job? Fort St. James National Historic Site is hiring tour guides. For more information call Bob Grill at 250-996-7191 ext 21 Or email bob.grill@pc.gc.ca
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) LIMITED DURATION LABOURER VANDERHOOF MAINTENANCE DEPT.
DUTIES TO COMMENCE: May 1, 2014 – August 29, 2014 RATE OF PAY: $19.43 per hour as per the current Collective Agreement School District No.91 (Nechako Lakes) is seeking 2 highly motivated, progressive individuals who would be interested in working as Labourers in the Vanderhoof Area. These individuals would perform a variety of tasks related to the maintenance, alteration and construction of District buildings, grounds and equipment. The ideal candidate should demonstrate or meet the following criteria:
The District of Fort St. James is now accepting applications for the Temporary Full-time position of “Recreation Leader” to work from May to August 2014, 40 hours per week, some evenings and weekends, and for Temporary Part-time “Recreation Assistants” to assist the Recreation Leader through the months of July and August 2014.
KNOWLEDGE • completion of Grade 12 (Dogwood Certificate) • valid Class 5, B.C. Driver’s License with an exemplary driving record as demonstrated by a current driver’s abstract
Recreation Assistants are responsible for assisting the Recreation Leader with facilitating programs, activities and events for children. All applicants should possess strong interpersonal skills, be energetic and organized, and have previous experience working with children. To be considered for the above positions, applications must be received no later than April 11, 2014 at 4:00 p.m. Please submit resumes by 4:30 p.m. on April 11, 2014, to the attention of: Kevin Crook, Chief Administrative Officer District of Fort St. James PO Box 640 / 477 Stuart Drive West Fort St. James, B.C. V0J 1P0 E-mail: cao@fortstjames.ca Preference will be given to local students who are registered to return to school in the fall. We appreciate all applications but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
STUDENT GROUNDSKEEPERS
HOURS OF WORK: 8 hours per day, 5 days per week
SUMMER RECREATION LEADER & RECREATION ASSISTANTS
The Recreation Leader is responsible for planning, organizing, and leading games, crafts, sports, songs, drama and small special events for children aged 5-12 years, in addition to supervising recreation assistants. This position requires current First Aid certification and a valid BC Driver’s license. Applicants should have academic training and experience in recreation/leisure programming, or relevant experience.
School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes)
EXPERIENCE • three months of previous relevant experience • WHMIS Certificate and familiarity with Work Safe BC (WCB) safety procedures SKILLS & ABILITIES • competent in the use and care of tools and equipment common to this position • ability to use courtesy and tact in obtaining and/or handing out data or information • ability to work in accordance with established procedures • physical capability to perform the job duties For complete duties and responsibilities of this position, please contact Lynn Maksymchak at 250-567-2284 or lmaksymchak@sd91.bc.ca Applications will be accepted for the following position until 4:00 pm, Friday, April 4, 2014 by: LYNN MAKSYMCHAK DISTRICT PRINCIPAL – HUMAN RESOURCES/ LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 91 (NECHAKO LAKES) PO BOX 129 VANDERHOOF BC V0J 3A0
School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) requires student groundskeepers for summer employment from May 1, 2014 until August 29, 2014 (two in Burns Lake, two in Vanderhoof, one in Fraser Lake and one in Fort St. James). Hours of work will be eight (8) hours per day between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. as determined by the supervisor, Monday to Friday, at a rate of $14.88 per hour. Preferred Qualifications: enrolled in a post-secondary education program and returning in September O previous experience relevant to the position required would be an asset O competent in the use and care of tools and equipment common to the position O valid Class 5, BC Driver’s License, unrestricted is desirable O an exemplary driving record as demonstrated by a current driver’s abstract O the ability to perform physically demanding job duties O a current WHMIS certificate O
A complete job description is available on our web site www.sd91.bc.ca. Please note: Incumbents who successfully complete this work assignment will be qualified to receive a $1,000 scholarship to a post secondary program of their choice. Please complete a general application form which is available on the website at http://www.sd91.bc.ca/ or from the School District Administration Office in Vanderhoof or from any district school. Please indicate on the application form the location you are applying for and submit by 4:00 p.m., Friday, April 4, 2014 to: Human Resources School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) P.O. Box 129 Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0 Phone: (250) 567-2284 Fax: (250) 567-4639 Email: cupejobs@sd91.bc.ca School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) would like to thank all applicants in advance for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Caledonia Courier Wednesday, Wednesday,April April2, 2,2014 2014
Misc Services
Misc Services
FORT ST. JAMES AND AREA
Employment Help Wanted • ARCHITECTURAL SHEET METAL WORKERS • FLAT ROOFERS
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
WANTED Vancouver Island and Lower
GRAVEL HAULING/ EXCAVATION/ WATER TREATMENT
Trades, Technical
BAM BAM TRUCKING
Ft. St. James B.C. Call (778) 667-0346 In a Jam, call BAM BAM. Remote Water Hauling, Water teƐƟng anĚ dreatment͘ 'raǀel Hauling, džĐaǀaƟon ǁorŬ͘ O Eoǁ ƉroǀiĚing >iƋuiĚ Ɛtorage tanŬƐ Ĩor Water anĚ WaƐte Danagement͘ &or ReƐiĚenƟal anĚ /nĚuƐtrial uƐeƐ͘ O Rainǁater ŚarǀeƐƟng ƐoluƟonƐ͘ O
Mainland opportunities. Top Wages & Benefits. Relocation costs paid to qualified applicants. E-mail: hiring@ parkerjohnston.com or Call: (1)250-382-9181
JOURNEYMAN HEAVY DUTY MECHANIC is required for coastal logging operations near Woss, BC. Year round employment with full benefits. Further details can be found at www.hdlogging.com Please fax resume to 250-287-9259.
Employment
Employment
Trades, Technical
Trades, Technical
3 positions: Picker/Boom Truck Operator, Winch & Bed Truck Operators needed. Generous signing bonus to right applicants. Valiant Oilfield Hauling is a family friendly business based in Fort St John. We are looking for a Certified Picker/Boom Truck Operator for a 40 ton Picker, an experienced Winch truck Operator and an experienced Lo-bed Truck Operator. We offer competitive Wages and great work environment. Send resume to office@valiant-hauling.com or call Jeremy at 1778-256-4258. Flexible work rotations a possibility. Serious applicants only.
PCL ENERGY. Now hiring Journeyperson Pipefitters ($40+/hr) and Scaffolders ($38+/hr) for an industrial project in Vanscoy, SK. LOA of $145/day worked and bonuses! We offer competitive wages and benefits. Send resume to: pclenergyjobs@pcl.com.
JOURNEYMAN or Apprentice Heavy Duty / Commercial Transport Mechanic wanted in Golden, BC. This is for you if you are an outdoor enthusiast. Position is full time evening shift 4:00 pm - 12:00 midnight Monday thru Friday. Rate of pay is competitive and will be negotiated based on experience. We invite you to become a member of our team. Please fax your resume and cover letter to 250-344-6622 or email manager@bnwcontracting.ca
Legal Notices
Legal Notices
Water Delivery and Gravel ^eaŵleƐƐ WŽlyetŚylene danŬƐ džĐavaƟŽn INVITATION TO TENDER PROJECT# 13013 - RENOVATION TO THEATRE
Pam Berger Publisher
250-996-8482
Advertising: advertising@ominecaexpress.com News: newsroom@caledoniacourier.com Website: www.caledoniacourier.com
Serving Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, Fort Fraser and Fraser Lake
Pam Berger Publisher 150 W. Columbia St Box 1007, Vanderhoof BC V0J 3A0
Email: advertising@ominecaexpress.com
ADvertiser STUART NECHAKO
Reaching Every Door
Serving Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, Fort Fraser and Fraser Lake
Pam Berger Publisher 150 W. Columbia St Box 1007, Vanderhoof BC V0J 3A0
Sealed tenders from General Contractors are requested for the RENOVATION TO THE EXISTING THEATRE BUILDING IN FORT ST. JAMES, BC, 190 Stuart Drive East, Fort St. James, BC. Tender documents may be obtained starting Monday, March 31st, 2014 from the office of the Prime Consultant. These documents are available to General Contractors only upon receipt of a non-refundable deposit of a cheque or cash in the amount of fifty dollars ($50.00) payable to Access Engineering Consultants Ltd. for each set of Drawings and Specifications. Prime Consultant: ACCESS ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS LTD. 1484 2nd Ave Prince George, B.C. V2L 3B6 Tel: 250-562-9345 Fax: 250-563-4878 e-mail: acceng@pgonline.com Documents may also be viewed on BC Bid or BC Construction Association North.
Tel: 250-567-9258 Fax: 250-567-2070
Tel: 250-567-9258 Fax: 250-567-2070 Email: advertising@ominecaexpress.com
Req. at Canuck Mechanical in Prince George. Must have exp. doing service work & be proficient with trouble shooting heating systems & plumbing problems. Top wages & benefits Email resume to: canuckm@telus.net
Services
Financial Services DROWNING IN Debt? Cut debts more than 60% and be debt free in half the time! Avoid bankruptcy! Free consultation. Toll Free 1-877-5563500 BBB Rated A+ or www.mydebtsolution.com GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: it’s that simple. Your credit/age/income is not an issue. 1-800-587-2161.
Legal Notices
NEWSPAPERS Serving Fort St. James and area since 1972
LICENSED PLUMBER/ GAS FITTER
A Site Meeting will be held at the site on Thursday, April 10th, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. Tenders are to be delivered to the offices of Access Engineering Consultants Ltd. and will be accepted until Wednesday, April 23rd, 2014 at 3:00 pm and opened in public shortly thereafter. The District reserves the right to reject any or all tenders, waive informalities and to contract as the best interests of the District may require. The lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. The District of Fort St. James is committed to the utilization of local supplies, contractors and services; tender documents will be judged on their local component. Tenderers should highlight components of their tender that will be fulfilled locally. All inquiries shall be directed only to the Prime Consultant.
www.caledoniacourier.com A11 www.caledoniacourier.com
Services
Legal Services
Misc. for Sale
CRIMINAL RECORD? Don’t let it block employment, travel, education, professional, certification, adoption, property rental opportunities. For peace of mind and a free consultation call 1-800-347-2540.
STEEL BUILDINGS, metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-4572206; www.crownsteelbuildings.ca.
CRIMINAL RECORD? Pardon Services Canada. Established 1989. Confidential, Fast, & Affordable. A+BBB Rating. RCMP Accredited. Employment & Travel Freedom. Free Consultation 1-8NOW-PARDON (1-866-972-7366) RemoveYourRecord.com
Merchandise for Sale
Misc. for Sale HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/ newspaper? RESTLESS LEG Syndrome and leg cramps? Fast relief in one hour. Sleep at night. Proven for over 32 years. www.allcalm.com Mon-Fri 8-4 EST 1-800-765-8660. SAWMILLS FROM only $4,897. Make money and save money with your own bandmill. Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT. www.norwoodsawmills.com/400ot
Legal Notices
NOTICE TO REMOVE PRIVATE LAND FROM WOODLOT LICENSE 665 Please be advised that Keith Playfair is proposing to remove 65 h of private land from Woodlot License 665 located in the vicinity of Airport road , Ft St James. Inquiries/comments to this proposal must be submitted to Ross Hamilton , Bag 19 , Ft St James , B.C. , V0J1P0 by 25/04/2014. Only written inquiries received by the above date will be responded to. Information about this proposal can be obtained by contacting the above.
Misc. Wanted Coin Collector Looking to Buy Collections, Estates, Gold & Silver Coins + 778-281-0030 FIREARMS. ALL types wanted, estates, collections, single items, military. We handle all paperwork and transportation. Licensed Dealer. 1-866-9600045. www.dollars4guns.com
Real Estate Mobile Homes & Parks RETIRE IN Beautiful Southern BC, Brand New Park. Affordable Housing. COPPER RIDGE. Manufactured Home Park, New Home Sales. Keremeos, BC. Spec home on site to view. Please call 250-4627055. www.copperridge.ca
Other Areas 20 ACRES $0 Down, Only $119/mo. Owner Financing, NO CREDIT CHECKS! Near El Paso, Texas. Beautiful Mountain Views! Money Back Guarantee Call 1-866-8825263 Ext. 81 www.sunsetranches.net
Transportation
Cars - Domestic 2009 PONTIAC VIBE
excellent condition, 60,000 kms, fully loaded with a set of winter tires. Manual, front wheel drive. $9800
Call (250) 251-4500 or (250) 698-7533 BID OPPORTUNITY MARINA MANAGER The District of Fort St. James is now accepting bids for the contract position of Marina Manager to provide 24-hour supervision of Cottonwood Marina for the 2014 boating season (mid-May to end-September). The Marina Manager will also oversee the municipal campsite at Cottonwood Park and open, close and clean the washrooms at Cottonwood Park and Goodwin Park each day. Experience serving the public and/or boating experience would be an asset. The District will provide on-site accommodation including water, power and phone. A submission package including a sample contract is available at the District Office. Bids must be received by the District of Fort St. James (PO Box 640, 477 Stuart Drive West, Fort St. James, BC V0J 1P0) no later than 4:00 p.m. on Friday, April 11, 2014. The bid price for the contract will be only one criteria for the successful bidder. The District is also interested in innovative proposals for collection of fees and provision of additional services at the marina.
Eating disorders are the deadliest of all mental illnesses. Learn more at lookingglassbc.com
Merchandise for Sale
Boats 1989 SUN RUNNER boat. 21.5 feet, 125 aq Volvo inboard motor, Merc leg, excellent running condition. $7000 (250) 698-7533 leave a message we will call you back. Pictures available.
A12 www.caledoniacourier.com
Wednesday, April 2, 2014 Caledonia Courier
While you’re not looking, this is what’s happening to BC’s world renowned recycling program.
Well, lookie here. One minute you have a perfectly good Blue Box recycling program. The next, something new and rather questionable is being put in its place. And they thought they’d get away with it right under your nose, without telling you or asking your opinion. That’s definitely not democracy in action. The BC Government, elected by us to represent our best interests, has decided to offload the costs of recycling to big multi-national corporations. To implement this new plan, they’ve set up an association that doesn’t really seem to hold the environment, local jobs, or the municipalities that run the Blue Box program, close to its heart.
Perhaps that’s why some of our local elected officials are using the word “scam” to describe how the new program is being set up. It’s also perhaps why several of BC’s municipalities refuse to jump on board. That’s gotta tell you something. Now it’s your turn to let Premier Christy Clark know what you think. Contact her today to say that dismantling an already-working recycling program to replace it with something that few people think will be as good, is a bad idea.
What’s going on here?
Email Christy Clark at premier@gov.bc.ca or call 250-387-1715. For more info, visit RethinkItBC.ca. #RethinkItBC. This Message is brought to you by: