Houston Today, September 24, 2014 by Black Press Media Group

COMMUNITY: Helen Sullivan Memorial Walkathon

NEWS: Weekly Police Report

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Irrigation Lake dam building By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

FALL Harvest

Irrigation Lake stakeholders are calling for volunteers to come together to help build a new dam next week. With government approval and a construction permit granted Sept. 11, stakeholders are pushing for construction Sept. 29 to Oct. 3. The old dam on the south end of Irrigation Lake was deemed a “potential safety hazard” by the Provincial Government in June 2013. They demanded that stakeholders bring the dam up to safety standards and find someone to take on the water licence, or else the dam would be torn out. Stakeholders took action and in July 2013, with a $10,000 grant from the Bulkley Valley Credit Union, they hired an engineer

Jackie Lieuwen/Houston Today

The participants of the Houston Community Garden harvested their fresh produce and garden vegetables last Thursday. They also enjoyed a final harvest barbecue. Above L - R are William, Rozalin and Ryder helping Mel Anderson and Jaime Yeomans dig up potatoes. See page 9 for more photos.

“

Volunteers needed for construction starting next Monday.

to develop a design, which was completed last June. The active stakeholders are Rough Acres Bible Camp, Rock Nest Ranch and Bells and Spooners (neighbours on the lake), as well as Ken Thomson and Steve Page. Rough Acres Bible Camp and Rock Nest Ranch are working to each get a conservation water licence and share the responsibility and liability for the Irrigation Lake dam, said Wendall Garrison, Rock Nest Director. See LAKE on Page 2

HFP closure drives Houston labour market strategy By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

Two consultants are developing a Houston strategy to address the labour market challenges. Still in the formative stages, the Labour Market Strategy (LMS) has one guiding

question: How can one close the gap between the labour force needed in Houston and the region, and the labour force that currently exists? Consultants Andrea Newell and Pat Hufnagel-Smith were hired in March for the LMS project,

and presented the draft to council last week Tuesday. The strategy was based on research done by the consultants, including information from the Regional District Skills Gap Analysis, the Houston Community Profile and the Northwest

Workforce Table. More notably, it also included interviews with the major employers in Houston as well as local service providers like Work BC and NWCC. After research, the LMS consultants met with nine key stakeholders for a

HA P P Y

LMS session, where they presented their research and let stakeholders decide on the priorities. Newell said the local employers confirmed that a gap does exist between the labour force that exists now and what they want to hire.

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Wednesday, September 24, 2014

NEWS

Houston Today

Stakeholders seeking donations for construction

LAKE from Page 1 With the construction permit just granted, stakeholders met Sept. 15 to begin organizing plans for construction, which they hope will be supported by donations and volunteers from the community. For construction starting Sept. 29, they need operators and equipment including two excavators, two dump trucks, two compactors and a bulldozer. They also need a volunteer carpenter and donated concrete for constructing the gate of the dam. The group

THANK YOU to

For funding a new Automated External Defibrillator for the Granisle Volunteer Fire Department

WORKING TOGETHER TO SAVE LIVES

Jackie Lieuwen/Houston Today

Stakeholders met last week Monday to discuss the construction of the Irrigation Lake dam. They just got a construction permit and are pushing to start construction next Monday. estimates the cost of the project will top $90,000. The biggest expense is fuel to operate the equipment, which they estimated will average $12,000 per day, $60,000 total. Steve Page, s t a k e h o l d e r

representative, says it will cost $10,000 to bring engineer Carl Pentilchuk from Kamloops to oversee the construction. Supplies such as the gate for the dam and lumber are another $10,000, with other miscellaneous costs

already at $6,700, Page said, adding that a soil test is also being done for $3,000. Page says they need a lot of community support via donations and volunteers, and they need things to come together fast so the project can be

done this fall. Anybody willing to donate money, use of equipment or volunteer time to the project is asked to contact Steve Page at 250-643-2748 or Rough Acres Bible Camp or Rock Nest Ranch.

Houston, Let’s taLk Community Information Session We would like to invite you to an information session where you can learn more about the Northern Gateway Project conditions and plans relevant to your community, and provide us with your feedback.

Tuesday, September 30 Houston Community Hall 2303 Butler Avenue Houston, BC 4:00 to 8:00 pm

You can review all of the Project conditions that will be discussed at the information session by visiting gatewayfacts.ca/engagement We hope you will find this to be a great opportunity to talk with our team and other community members about the plans and conditions relevant to you. Bring your questions and feedback, and let’s continue the discussion about Northern Gateway. We look forward to seeing you there.

For more information, contact us at info@northerngateway.ca or 1-888-434-0533

Houston Today

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Wednesday, September 24, 2014

COMMUNITY

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Jackie Lieuwen photos/Houston Today

Over 30 people participated in the annual Helen Sullivan memorial walk-a-thon last Saturday. At the day of the walk donations already topped $3,000 for the Seniors Housing Society, with more pledges coming in. The District of Houston donated 2 for 1 pool passes for all participants. Above left is Sue Jones with her parents Dave and Joanne. Right is Noreen Scott with Shirley Collins, who was the top fund raiser for the Seniors Housing Society for two years and the second top fund raiser last year. “She is a long time supporter of the Senior Housing Society,” said Arnold Amonson, President of the Houston Seniors Society. “Thank you,” added Noreen Scott.

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HOUSTON MALL | 250-845-2454

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Opinion

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

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Houston Today

Phone: 250 845-2890 • Fax 250 845-7893 News: editor@houston-today.com or: newsroom@houston-today.com Advertising: advertising@houston-today.com

In our opinion:

ICBC cash cow

ost, if not all, British Columbia drivers are getting sick and tired of paying through the nose to a Crown corporation that has a monopoly on basic automobile insurance rates. The B.C. Liberals’ favourite cash cow – the Insurance Corporation of B.C. - is looking for a 5.2 per cent hike to basic auto insurance rates, which includes a small carry-over from last year’s 5.2 jump. If approved, it would total a 10.4 per cent hike in two years. ICBC formally requested the increase on Aug. 29 by filing the application to the B.C. Utilities Commission (BCUC). However, the Crown corporation wants the hike to take effect Nov. 1 on an interim basis, while BCUC mulls over the application. The public auto insurer stated it needs the extra money because of the escalating costs for payouts for pain and suffering, and future care and loss of wages claims. Bodily injury claims in 2013 totalled $1.9 billion – up $500 million from the previous year. ICBC noted distracted driving is one of the major causes for the increase in injury claims costs. The Crown corporation claims the increase to basic automobile insurance would only cost the “average” driver an extra $3 a month, or $36 a year. Meanwhile, the BC NDP point out that since Premier Christy Clark took office, the B.C. Liberals have increased rates by 23 per cent, or $140 more a year for average drivers. The Opposition party also notes it’s also a good bet ICBC rates will go up by a similar amount next year. The bigger issue is the provincial government is continually taking money from ICBC and sliding it into general revenue – to be spent where necessary. The B.C. Liberals have budgeted to withdraw $200 million from ICBC this year, $155 million in 2015, and $125 in 2016. They siphoned out $237 in 2013 and $576 million in 2010. However, the Clark government claims the dividends it pulls from the Crown corporation only come out of the optional insurance division, and doesn’t affect basic insurance side of the operation. While ICBC has a monopoly on basic insurance, it doesn’t have that advantage in optional insurance. Its revenue on that side of the ledger has been soft ever since private insurance companies have been able to compete. Regardless, it’s one corporation and it’s hammering British Columbians with fee hikes. Another irksome issue is the way the B.C. Liberals led into yet another hike for basic insurance in a way that would blunt the drivers’ displeasure. Prior to the increase, ICBC announced it made a mistake on some billings it had sent out starting in 2008, and would either be providing cheques to those drivers who over paid, or forgiving those who under paid. - Ken Alexander, Black Press

A friendship rekindled I ran into an exfriend in the grocery store this week. If I’d seen her from a distance or if she’d seen me, we probably would have avoided each other as we’ve done in the past. But as she was pushing her buggy around the corner of a middle aisle, I was wheeling my cart in her direction and suddenly we were face to face. “Hi,” I said, excited to see her, temporarily forgetting that we’d had a mysterious falling out over six years ago. “Hi,” she said, smiling back at me. And then we stood there for what seemed like an entire minute just looking at each other. “I don’t know what I did to upset you,” I

blurted out anxiously. “But whatever I did, I’m really sorry.” Instantly I felt tears in my eyes and could see tears in hers too. We hugged and laughed and started asking each other about our lives and families. We also reminisced. We talked about the time we got caught in a terrifying whiteout on the Coquihalla Highway and were afraid for our lives, as our children goofed around loudly in the back seat. I told her about the pictures that I was just looking at: her daughter and my son when they were hilarious toddlers running around naked in my backyard. And then I asked if she remembered when I first told her I was

pregnant with my now 11-year-old daughter. Again - tears. We had a lot of great moments together as new mothers and I’ll never forget meeting her for the first time with our babies. I liked her right away. We were fast friends and I assumed we’d always be there for one another. Until we weren’t. Our falling out was briefly discussed and my reasons for being upset with her vanished when I found out why she was mad at me. I had no recollection of what she described and it felt like there must have been some kind of miscommunication way back when, but all I could do was apologize again for the part that I played

in the demise of our friendship, whether I remembered it or not. I think if we’d talked it out at the time we would have been fine. However, neither one of us made that effort. “Well, we’re talking now,” my friend said, after I told her how much I regretted not approaching her sooner. “That’s good.” I completely agreed - it is good. But I can’t help kicking myself for my bad habit of avoiding conflict. By doing so in this situation, I allowed the hurt feelings between us to needlessly fester. I’m grateful for the surprise close encounter with her in the grocery store. As we hugged for a second time and promised to meet for

2009

On a brighter note Lori Welbourne coffee, I thought of my mom telling me how yellow roses represent joy and friendship, and I vowed to send a bouquet to my long lost pal. I don’t know if we’ll establish the same kind of relationship we once had, but I’m sure we’ll feel better about each other going forward. It feels good to love her again without the hurt.

Black Press Group Ltd.

2009 WINNER

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DISTRIBUTED EVERY WEDNESDAY HOUSTON TODAY published by Black Press “Member, B.C. Press Council” www.bcpresscouncil.org Reproduction of contents either in part or in whole are not permitted without prior consent Copyright Canada No. 22 Serial No. 132934

Annual Subscriptions: Local (Houston only): $38.00 (includes tax) Seniors: $28.00 (includes tax) Out of Town: $50.00 (includes tax) We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

M.A. Ruiter - Sales Manager Jackie Lieuwen - Reporter/Photographer Annamarie Douglas - Production Manager

BC Press Council - Houston Today 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, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith,B.C. V9G 1A9. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

Houston Today

Opinion

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

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

www.houston-today.com

Phone: 250 845-2890 • Fax 250 845-7893 News: editor@houston-today.com or: newsroom@houston-today.com Advertising: advertising@houston-today.com

On the

Street... Why is Irrigation Lake important to you? What is your role in bringing the dam up to safety standards?

By Jackie Lieuwen

Steve Page Stakeholder lead

Kent Cotton Rough Acres Bible Camp

Doug Anderson Rock Nest Ranch

Wendall Garrison Rock Nest Ranch

“It provides a close-by recreation area for people from both Houston and Smithers - ice fishing in the winter, and swimming and canoeing in the summer. It’s a nice, small, gentle lake for families to use. I’m using my engineering background to facilitate and provide advice to the stakeholders.”

“It’s the highlight of the fun for the kids that come to camp. Without the dam, the water would go down and we’d have limited water sports and lose our water supply for the camp. My role will be fund raising and helping find and organize volunteer equipment to build the dam.”

“Rock Nest has geothermal, so the lake is needed to heat the building, and the water level has to be high enough for the system to work. Rock Nest and Rough Acres are accepting liability and responsibility for the dam. The board will also be making a donation towards dam construction.”

“Swimming in Irrigation is an important part of program at camp. And personally, it’s a great lake to be on for fishing, and it’s quiet. Rock Nest is part of the team wanting to keep normal lake levels and working to upgrade the dam and find donations and volunteers to help.”

Teachers vote 86% yes to new deal B.C. teachers have voted strongly in favour of ending their strike and returning to work next week. B.C. Teachers’ Federation members voted 86 per cent in favour of a six-year agreement negotiated with the help of mediator Vince Ready this week. About three out of four of

the province’s 40,000 teachers voted. “I’m happy with this deal,” said BCTF president Jim Iker. It gives the province’s teachers raises totalling 7.25 per cent over six years, improvements to benefits and a fund to hire hundreds of new teachers each year. Iker said the

turnout for the vote was higher than the union’s last two ratification votes. Education Minister Peter Fassbender congratulated teachers on the settlement, which ends a bitter strike that shut schools for two weeks in June and another three weeks this fall.

“We can now focus on the path forward,” Fassbender said. “This long-term agreement is an historic opportunity to work together for students – to enhance their education experience and to support their achievements.” Premier Christy Clark added her thanks on Twitter.

“This is a fair, affordable deal that will let us focus on putting students first,” Clark said. Iker said most school districts will reopen Monday, and the ministry has notified superintendents that the school year will not be extended to make up the days lost

to the strike. The finance ministry is preparing to send out compensation of $40 per lost student day to parents of students up to age 12. One-time payments are expected to be sent out in October to eligible parents who registered at bcparentinfo.ca.

B.C. Views Tom Fletcher

Human Rights Tribunal rejects complaint By Tom Fletcher Black Press

After losing in court and and before the B.C. Utilities Commission, a citizens’ group opposed to wireless electrical meters has been denied a hearing before the B.C. Human Rights Tribunal. The complaint was brought by a group called Citizens for Safe Technology Society (CSTS), which argued that “electrohypersensitivity” (EHS) is a disability. “I have concluded that there is no reasonable prospect that the complainants will be able to establish that the electromagnetic frequency (EMF) exposure resulting from smart meters results in adverse health consequences,” wrote tribunal member Norman Trerise in the de-

Aaron Orlando/Black Press

Smart meter installer photographs a sign posted to refuse replacement of mechanical power meter, Revelstoke, May 2012. cision not to hold a full hearing. CSTS submitted that

they don’t have to prove this sensitivity exists, because the human rights tri-

bunal has accepted “subjective self-reporting of symptoms” in a previous

human rights case involving a Lower Mainland bus driver. CSTS also cited a Prince Edward Island Court of Appeal decision that stated “a person may be ill even though there is little or no objective evidence to prove it.” BC Hydro said a series of doctors’ notes supplied by the complainants don’t prove the condition is real, because they appear to be based “entirely on the selfdiagnosis of the individual complainants.” BC Hydro has argued that the exposure from periodic wireless meter signals to send electricity consumption data to collection stations is similar to exposure to radio station signals. BC Hydro said the Human Rights Tribunal doesn’t have jurisdiction

over the wireless grid project, and the B.C. Utilities Commission does. The B.C. government’s 2010 Clean Energy Act mandated the wireless grid upgrade, and exempted it from review by the BCUC. But in 2013 the BCUC reviewed the wireless grid project by FortisBC in the Okanagan and Kootenay region, and rejected CSTS submissions that the technology was a health hazard. CSTS argued that BC Hydro’s offer to relocate the wireless meter to another part of the property was not sufficient relief, and charging meter reading fees to those who want to keep their mechanical meter or have a digital meter with the wireless transmission turned off is discrimination against people with a disability.

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Wednesday, September 24, 2014

NEWS

Houston Today

Mount Polley dike completed By Tom Fletcher Black Press

Aerial photo shows upstream dike and sumps to contain tailings at Mount Polley mine, making the site secure so investigators can work at the site of the Aug. 4 dam breach. Imperial Metals photo THE CORPORATION OF THE

VILLAGE OF GRANISLE

School Board TruSTee InformaTIon SeSSIon

NOTICE OF TAX SALE The following properties will be sold at Tax Sale on Monday, September 29th, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. in the Council Chambers of the Village of Granisle, #1 Village Square, under Section 403 of the Local Government Act and Section 5 of the Manufactured Home Tax Act. The Tax Sale will be conducted by public auction of the lands and improvements in the list set out below. The following properties will be sold Monday, September 29th, 2014 unless the delinquent taxes plus interest are paid prior to the tax sale. 1. Lot 59, Plan PRP7145, District Lot 649; Lot 60, Plan PRP7145, District Lot 649, Range 5, Coast Range 5 Land District, 44 Morrison Street, Granisle, B.C. ................................upset price $11,414.95 2. Lot 27, Plan PRP8056; District Lot 1246, Range 5, Coast Range 5 Land District, 27 Byron Circle, Granisle, B.C. .................................. upset price $1225.60 3. Lot 2, Plan PRP6963, District Lot 1351A, Range 5, Coast Range 5 Land District, 44 Hagen Street, Granisle, B.C. .................................upset price $37857.41 4. Lot 37, Plan PRS59, District Lot 1351A 7890 TOGETHER WITH AN INTEREST IN COMMON, Range 5, Coast Range 5 Land District, 37 – 50 Hagen Street, Granisle, B.C............................ upset price $2,192.90 5. Lot 5, Plan PRP6691; District Lot 7890; Range 5, Coast Range 5 Land District, 27 Fulton Street, Granisle, B.C. .................................. upset price $4811.45 6. Lot 5, Block 11, Plan PRP6692; District Lot 7890;Range 5, Coast Range5 Land District, 2 Fulton Street, Granisle, B.C. .................................. upset price $6088.35

Properties sold are subject to the PROPERTY TRANSFER TAX ACT and therefore a 1% Federal Tax is payable on the fair market value at time of conveyance. Brenda Andersson Finance Officer

School District #54 (Bulkley Valley) is hosting an information evening for individuals who may be interested in becoming a School Board Trustee. In conjunction with the Municipal Election being held on November 15, 2014, Trustees will be elected for the following areas: Zone 1 – Lake Kathlyn/Evelyn/Moricetown One (1) Trustee Zone 2 – Smithers/Glentanna/Driftwood Three (3) Trustees Zone 3 – Telkwa/Quick One (1) Trustee Zone 4 – Houston Two (2) Trustees The information evening will be held September 30th, 2014 at 7:00pm at the School Board Office, 1235 Montreal Street, Smithers. A trustee representative and school board administration will be available to provide an overview and answer any questions regarding trustee responsibilities, time commitments, remuneration etc. For further information regarding this information evening, please contact Dave Margerm, Secretary Treasurer, School District #54 (Bulkley Valley) at 250-877-6820.

An upstream dike has been completed at Mount Polley Mine, allowing investigators to probe the site of the original Aug. 4 dam breach. The new structure is to make the breach area safe for inspection and work below, not to repair the original breach or retain water in the tailings pond, said Steve Robertson, Imperial Metals vicepresident for corporate affairs. “We’ve finished construction of the upstream dike, and now we’re establishing the sumps on the upstream side of that, and that will intercept the water that’s going to continue to flow out of the tailings,” Robertson said in an interview Friday. “If anything should get past that, we’ll have another sump outside of the breach that will capture any water that comes out through the breach and make sure that it gets put into the reclaim system.”

Letters to the

Editor

District of Houston www.houston.ca

INVITATION TO QUOTE OWNER: District of Houston PROJECT: District of Houston Supply of Road Traction Material PROJECT DESCRIPTION: 1. The District of Houston requires 1500 cubic meters of Road traction material that meets the following specification: Moisture content: 3.0% Sieve #

Size of Opening mm

Weight Measured

Percent retained %

Percent passing %

3/8” 4 8 16 30 50 100 200

9.5 4.75 2.36 1.180 0.600 0.300 0.150 0.075 PAN

0 9.1 195.9 244.9 268 306.2 160 24.2 12.5

0.0% 0.7 16.0 20.1 22.0 25.1 13.1 2.0 1.0

100.0% 99.3 83.2 63.1 41.2 16.1 3.0 1.0 0.0

Specification Min % Max % 100 100 95 100 80 100 50 85 25 60 10 30 2 10 0 3

The material will be delivered to the Public Works yard on Nadina Ave in Houston.

SCOPE: 1. The work includes all labour, equipment and materials for extracting, crushing and delivery. 2. The material must be scaled with load slips itemizing weight and volume, and provided after each delivery. 3. Provide a fixed price. PROJECT COMPLETION: Project is to be completed no later than October 13, 2014 unless otherwise approved by the Director of Engineering. QUOTATIONS REQUIRED BY:

September 26, 2014 at 4:00 PM local time

METHOD OF DELIVERY: Hand Deliver: 3367 –12th Street, Houston, British Columbia Mail: PO. Box 370 Houston, BC V0J 1Z0 • Fax: 250-845-3429 • Email: engineering@houston.ca LOCATION OF PROJECT: Supply and deliver Road Traction Material to the Houston Public Works Yard (1500 cu.m.) - North Nadina Way TO BE CONSIDERED: Contractor to provide to the District proof of a current Houston Business License CONTACT: John J. Guenther, Director of Engineering & Development Services District of Houston, Box 370, 3367 12th Street Houston, BC V0J 1Z0 Phone: 250-845-2238 • Fax: 250-245-3429 • Email: engineering@houston.ca

The sumps act as settling ponds, with the water pumped back up to another pit on the site of the copper-gold mine near Williams Lake. Robertson said the continued work addresses the Ministry of Environment’s noncompliance notice issued to the company Sept. 9, regarding discharge of water into the Hazeltine Creek channel. Most of the available mine employees are back at work, with about 30 working on cleanup around Quesnel Lake. Work is expected to continue until there is too much snow cover to continue. The environment ministry released more water test results Thursday, showing water collected at various sites and depths in the area remains safe to drink. The immediate area of the tailings spill remains a “do not use” zone, and Interior Health advises local residents to avoid drinking cloudy water.

Biting the hand that feeds Dear Editor: Why are some Lower Mainland mayors so hell bent on kicking the legs out from underneath BC’s and western Canada’s resource economy? If you ask me they are biting the hand that feeds them. Have they forgotten that Vancouver is really nothing more than a port that funnels BC’s and western Canada’s valuable natural resources to the world? Without BC’s vast mineral, forest and energy resources Vancouver would be a virtual nobody and without an economic

base. Without the mining and mineral exploration industries, Downtown Vancouver would be a ghost town. As a lawyer friend who works in a large downtown law firm told me, most of his firm’s work revolves around forestry, mining and First Nations. Short sighted NDP mayors such as Derek Corrigan and Gregor Robertson should bear this in mind and stop biting the hand that feeds them and all of us who live here in the Lower Mainland. Mike Taylor Coquitlam, B.C.

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Wednesday, September 24, 2014

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Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Houston Today

District of Houston

Newsletter ~ September 24th, 2014 edition Where the welcome is warm and the wilderness beckons! Upcoming Council Meetings: Tuesday, October 7, 2014 Tuesday, October 21, 2014 The above meetings are held at 7:00pm in Council Chambers, 3367 – 12th Street. The Agendas can be viewed on the District’s website: www.houston.ca

Website: www.houston.ca Please visit the website for info on: • • • • • •

Municipal Office, Arena, Leisure Facility & Public Works Office:

Closed Wed. Oct 1st from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm

All District of Houston facilities will be closed from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm on Wednesday, October 1, 2014 for a District wide staff meeting. Regular hours will resume at 4:00 pm on Wednesday, October 1, 2014. We apologize for any inconvenience. Any questions or concerns should be directed to Michael D. Glavin, Chief Administrative Ofﬁcer @ 250.845.2238.

Surplus Equipment Sale at Public Works: Saturday, October 4th

Come check out our Surplus Equipment Sale on Saturday, October 4th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the District of Houston Public Works Yard located at 2215 N. Nadina Ave, Houston, BC. Equipment will be sold only between the hours of 10:00 am and 2:00 pm and no pre sales will be accepted. Equipment must be removed at the time of purchase.

Houston Leisure Facility Annual Maintenance Shutdown Monday, September 22 - Sunday, October 5

Council Meeting Agendas Pool Schedule Arena Schedule Important Public Notices Tenders & Job Opportunities Lost Dogs

September 22 - 28 Entire Facility Closed

Municipal Office Hours

October 4-5 Entire Facility Closed

The Municipal Office located at 3367 – 12th Street is open Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed on statutory holidays)

October 6 Facility reopens for Fall hours

Email: doh@houston.ca Phone: 250-845-2238 Fax: 250-845-3429

For Public Works Emergencies (example: water main break) Call the Municipal Office @ 250-845-2238 for a recorded message with the contact number of the person on call.

Pool & Gym Phone: 250-845-7420 Email: reception@houston.ca

Arena Phone: 250-845-7432

September 29- October 3 Reception & Gym open 8:30am- 4:30pm

For a great Christmas gift idea, contact the Municipal Ofﬁce to purchase a copy of the “Marks of a Century” History Book at a cost of $9.95 plus HST (total cost is $11.14)

Workshop – You are Invited!

New Building Code & Construction - Including Wood Stove Safety Workshop: Thursday, November 6, 2014 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm at the District of Houston Municipal Ofﬁce, 2267 12th Street

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding while we clean, scrub, paint, repair and renovate our facilities. If you hold a current Houston Leisure Facility membership please ask at the front desk about accessing the BV Pool in Smithers during shutdown.

Leisure Facility Programs & Events: JUNIOR LIFEGUARD CLUB (Ages 8-12yrs) Oct. 8-Nov 26 Wednesday’s 4-6 pm $40 (8 classes)

Fall Swimming Lessons: Oct. 11-Dec. 13 Saturday’s 11:00

SK 1/2 (5756/57)

11-11:45

SK 5/6 (5765/66)

BRONZE LIFESAVING CAMP Oct. 20-30 - Mon/Wed/Fri 4-8 pm $273 Inc. manual (6 classes)

11:30

SK 3/4 (5758/59)

STANDARD FIRST AID Nov. 15 &16 Saturday & Sunday 9-6 pm $120 incl. manual (2 classes)

11:45-12:30 SK 7/8 (5767/68) 12:00

Salamander (5760)

12:30-1:30

SK 9/10 (5769/70)

12:30

Sea Otter (5761)

1:00

Starfish/Duck/ Sea Turtle 5762/63/64

Need a little bit of extra practice to complete a level? We offer 30 minute private lessons for just $20 (Resident) or $25 (Non-resident)

Oct. 14 - Nov 13 Tues/Thurs

Nov 17 - Dec 17 Mon/Wed

4:00

Salamander (5771) Sea Otter (5777)

4:00

Crocodile/ Whale (5786/87)

4:30

SK 1/2 (5772/73) SK 3/4 (5778/79)

4:00-5:00

SK 9/10 (5793/94)

5:00

Sunfish (5774) Starfish/Duck/Sea Turtle (5780/81/82)

4:30

Sea Otter (5788)

5:00

SK 1/2 (5789/90) Sunfish (5795)

5:30

SK 3/4 (5791/5792) Salamander (5796)

5:30-6:15 SK 5/6 (5775/76) SK 7/8 (5783/84)

Information will be available on new construction and safety and the installing, maintaining and operating of wood heat. Doing an addition, renovation or new outbuilding? Come and exchange ideas regarding permits, framing, building placement and other hot topics in building and wood stove safety. This will be of interest to builders, trades, home owners, installers, property manager, realtors and renters.

Claude Parish Memorial Arena 2014-2015 Schedule The Claude Parish Memorial Arena officially opens on Monday, September 29th.

September 29 – March 22: Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Morning Hockey 6:30-7:30am

Burning Permits Required All open burning within the District of Houston requires a Burning Permit all year round. To obtain a permit contact the Fire Department at 250-845-2250

This time gives Leisure Facility staff time to perform maintenance and cleaning that is difficult to perform during regular operation.

“Marks of a Century” History Book

Skate @ School 10:30am12:00pm Minor Hockey 8:00am4:30pm

Parent & Tot Skate 12:15-1:15pm

Wednesday

Thursday

Morning Hockey 6:30-7:30am

Friday

Saturday

Phone: 250-845-2256 email: hlibrary@telus.net Website: http://houston.bclibrary.ca

Morning Hockey 6:30-7:30am

Available for ice rentals call 250-845-7420 for more info.

Hockey Skills Academy 1:30-3:00pm

Skate @ School 1:30-3:00pm

Skate @ School 12:45-2:15pm

Ringette 4:45-6:00pm

Figure Skating 3:30-5:30pm

Figure Skating 3:30-6:00pm

Figure Skating 2:30-6:00pm

Public Skating 6:15-7:15pm

Minor Hockey 6:15-10:15pm

Ringette 6:15-8:45pm

Minor Hockey 6:15-9:30pm

Minor Hockey 6:15-10:15pm

What’s Happening...

Drop-In Hockey 12:15-1:15pm

Hockey Skills Academy 1:30-3:00pm Public Skating 3:15-4:15pm

Minor Hockey 8:00am6:00pm

Public Skating 6:15-7:15pm

Old Timers Hockey 7:30-8:30pm Women’s Dropin Hockey 8:45-9:45pm

Story Time for 3 to 5 year-olds – Wed. mornings from 10 to 11 am starting on Oct. 15th

Junior Literary Society (An after

Christian Hockey 4:30-6:00pm Minor Hockey 6:15-7:00pm

Houston Public Library

school activity program featuring fun games, crafts and stories) for ages 8 to 12 – Thurs. afternoons from 2:30 to 4:30 starting Oct. 2nd

Book Club – Thurs. Oct. 30th from 7 to 9 pm Minor Hockey 9:00-10:00pm

Old Timers Hockey 9:00-10:00pm

Available for ice rentals call 250-845-7420 for more info.

Rec Hockey League 10:15-11:45pm

Schedule is subject to change

Mark Zagwyn Photography – Thurs. Oct 16th from noon to 5 pm Halloween Puppet Show – Fri. Oct 24th from 2 to 3 pm

Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

COMMUNITY

GARDEN Harvest The Community Garden had a harvest day and barbecue last Thursday. Left: William Montpas, Virginia Halfe and Delores Conner visit at the barbecue. Right: Helen Hall and Phyllis Wiebe process beets from their garden. Jackie Lieuwen photos/ Houston Today

Dear Editor: Last week Monday, the grade five six class of Houston Christian School interviewed different people around Houston as part of our project called Sojourning With The Stranger . The response we received from the community made us very proud to

“

Canada’s Pipelines

KEEPING CANADA’S ENERGY HIGHWAYS SAFE

“We never knew how many different countries were represented in Houston.”

- Grade 5/6 students

HOW PIPELINE COMPANIES ARE TAKING STANDARDS TO A NEW LEVEL live here. We asked a lot of questions and the people we interviewed answered us with respect and kindness. We wanted to thank the community for their help and support with this project. We took pictures of many of you with our groups and these are now posted on our wall in our classroom with a string to the place where the person had lived before. We never knew how many different countries were represented in Houston. Thank you again for helping us! If you would like to contribute to our growing knowledge of nationalities in Houston, please respond to grade5six@ gmail.com. - The Grade FiveSix Class of Houston Christian School

Pipelines – known as energy highways – are vital to our country’s energy infrastructure. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to do many of our daily activities, like travelling or heating our homes. That’s why it’s critical pipelines are efficient and safe – we need them to reliably deliver 80 per cent of the oil and gas products Canadians use. Canada’s pipeline companies carefully follow a strict set of standards and regulations and use sophisticated equipment at every phase of a pipeline’s life – from design and construction to operations, maintenance and emergency response plans.

These measures and innovative practices allow Canada’s pipeline industry to boast a 99.999 per cent* safety record. But we’re not stopping there. We’re committed to zero incidents; to reach it, we are focusing on new pipeline innovation, employee safety and emergency management through an industry led program, CEPA Integrity First®. Safety doesn’t just influence our plans, processes and standards – it defines them. It is the top priority of our industry, now and in the future. Learn more about Canada’s pipelines and our safety standards.

To find out more go to: aboutpipelines.com *From 2002 to 2013

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

September 21 to 27

Forest Week Sunrise in the Forest

National Forest Week is observed annually during the last full week of September. National Tree Day is observed on the Wednesday of National Forest Week.

Coming through one of the most expensive forest fire seasons in the province’s history, the B.C. government is being asked to renew its fund for local governments to create safe zones around their communities. A resolution to extend wildfire prevention funding tops the list for the Union of B.C. Municipalities convention, set for Sept. 22-26 in Whistler. It was sponsored by the Okanagan-Similkameen Regional District, where fire crews are battling the latest major forest fire near Princeton. The province’s wildfire prevention fund was established 10 years ago in the wake of the damaging 2003 fire season, with $37 million for a cost-sharing program. Another $25 million was provided in 2011 and that money has all been committed for local forest fuel management projects. The B.C. government estimates it will spend $350 million on wildfire control by the end of this season. That was exceeded in 2003 and in 2009, the most costly season for the province with $382 million spent. Other resolutions given priority by the UBCM executive: • Langley City is calling on the province to provide a cost recovery model for medical assistance calls to its fire rescue service. Nearly four out of five calls received are for medical assistance. In response to a previous request, the province told UBCM its local firefighters are not required to respond to medical calls. • The City of Victoria wants to discuss the province’s changes to the Agricultural Land Commission. Nelson, Coldstream and the Central Kootenay Regional District have presented similar resolutions, calling for more consultation before changes are implemented. • Northern and central B.C. municipalities object to the province’s proposal to cap industrial tax rates for properties used in liquefied natural gas developments. The B.C. government has complained previously about high industrial taxes imposed on the forest products industry.

Researchers can not predict another epidemic but they do know a warming climate will mean the pine beetle will keep moving on to new trees.

Finning has the tools to keep you

running!

Did you know Finning offers Block labour rates?

Although special activities are promoted across Canada, National Forest Week remains first and foremost a challenge to individual Canadians to learn more about their forest heritage and support greater recognition of this valuable resource.

www.houston-today.com

“

The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The second best time is now.

•

Arrange a tree planting: www.treecanada.ca

•

Take a walk in woods nearby and get to know your forest

•

Care for a newly planted or neglected tree, and study its species

•

Identify all the things at home or school that are made of wood

•

Learn about organizations that demonstrate sustainable forest management

•

Tour a forest sector industry or processing site

•

Learn about the prevention of forest fires

– Mark Twain

Tompkins P o fence post st and Rail in Housto Jackie Lieu s and rails. n is turning wen phot Ow 1,000 to 2,0 w 00 fence p ner James Tompkins aste into wealth mak o/Houston Today pine tree to osts per da says they sh ing y p ip out Canfor con s brought from the b made from small tractors. ush by

Black Press

The beetle is now attacking whitebark pine forests in the northern Rockies in the western U.S. and B.C. Although these trees do not have great economic value, they are still considered ecologically relevant.

(if resealed in house) Limited Time Offer.

Established circa 1920 as Forest Fire Prevention Week, the intention was to encourage greater public awareness towards Canada’s forests. At the time, there was no apparent shortage of trees for industrial expansion – the greatest threat came from forest fires, due mainly to human causes. Since then National Forest Week (NFW), as it was renamed in 1967, has evolved to encompass the many and varied human and environmental aspects of Canada’s forest resources – past, present and future.

How to Participate in National Forest Week

Tom Fletcher

The ghastly beetle has caused devastation mainly on lodge pole pine, ruining 18 million hectares of forest — the equivalent of about five Vancouver Islands, and it is threatening a new species of trees.

Hydraulic Cylinder Re Seal Kit

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Forest fire help tops communities’ wish list

According to a new study the mountain pine beetle is moving to higher elevations.

Ready for Fall?

Houston Today

History of National Forest Week

2014 National

SPECIAL:

Houston Today

50 % OFF

Ensure you have the resource when you need, contact us today!

Proud to Celebrate Forest Week... “Sunrise in the Forest” Celebrating Canada’s Forests in 2014

COMPLETE WELDING SUPPLIES Steel Sales GATES Hydraulic Hoses & Fittings Wire Rope Black Pipe Fittings Safety Equipment Fasteners Oil Spill Kits Tools

&M D INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES 250-845-3334

SALES • PARTS • SERVICE • FINANCING

West Highway 16, Houston 250-845-2213 • www.finning.ca

Located at: 2870 5th Street, Houston Industrial Park Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm • Saturday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Plant a tree because one large, healthy tree can: • Lift up to 4000 litres of water from the ground and release it into the air.

B.C. Wildfire Management Branch/Submitted photo

One of nine helicopters working to contain the Cheslaslie River fire west of Quesnel, which was discovered July 8. Covering more than 133,000 hectares, the fire was 75 per cent contained this week, with 86 firefighters and 13 pieces of heavy equipment working on it. • The province’s new recycling regulations have prompted a resolution on behalf of small communities without recycling programs. The Fraser-Fort George Regional District is calling for recycling collection services to be offered wherever fees are being collected from retailers for packaging and printed paper products.

• Absorb as many as 7000 dust particles per litre of air. • Absorb 75 per cent of the carbon produced by the average car. • Provide a day’s oxygen for up to four people

ton Today

en photo/Hous

Jackie Lieuw

the 90 cheque to .W) ,4 1 5 $ a d te n Workers (H.O ustad prese MLA John R uston Opportunities for yees impacted s ke La ko a o Nech eH mplo is to help e ouston for th yor Bill District of H February. The program n Rustad, Houston Ma teve S h Jo d st n la a LA zirfusz are M Program sure. Above ment Officer Maureen C e Operations. o cl FP H e lop by th sourc d Natural Re conomic Deve Holmberg, E ter of Forests, Lands, an inis Thomson, M

We Salute

National Forest Week September 21-27, 2014 “Sunrise in the Forest”

We provide Direct Dial Radio Telephones We are a Full Service Electrical Contractor Specializing in sales, rentals and service of.... • Logging & Mining Communications Equipment • Portable Radios • Mobile Radios • Satellite Phones Serving Houston, Smithers, Burns Lake and area

Tower Communications Ltd. 3459 10th Street, PO Box 1330, Houston

Phone: 250-845-7306 E-mail: tower2@telus.net

Peterbilt of Houston, BC Division of

1420 Morice River Road, PO Box 1446, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0

Phone: 250-845-3240 We provide a wide range of services including Project Management, fabrication, construction, mechanical installation, as well as Heavy Duty Equipment maintenance. Monster Industries is proud to announce we are an authorized supplier and installer of Rigid Global Buildings... offering the highest quality pre-engineered metal buildings, steel buildings, and metal building components in the industry!

Proudly serving the Forest Industry in North West B.C.

PACIFIC

TRUCK & EQUIPMENT INC.

250-845-0061 • 1-877-545-0063

Proud contributor to the Forest Industry

Truck & Equipment Sales Parts and Service Certified in Cummins Warranty Fully Licenced Inspection Facility Service with Four Pull-thru Bays with Hwy 16 access Sales of New and Used Trucks and Equipment Hours:

Your business is greatly appreciated.

www.monsterindustries.ca

Monday ............. 7:00am Tuesday ............. 7:00am Wednesday ....... 7:00am Thursday ........... 7:00am Friday ................ 7:00am Saturday ............ 8:00am Sunday .............. Closed

8:00pm 8:00pm 8:00pm 8:00pm 6:00pm 5:00pm

Great trucks, parts, equipment and all your servicing needs!

y We’re a full ified d cert an ed nc ce li

PETERBILT DEALER

www.pacifictruck.ca 2226 N. Nadina Ave, P.O Box 730, Houston, BC • Fax: 1-250-845-0062 • Email: info@pacifictruck.ca

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

September 21 to 27

Forest Week Sunrise in the Forest

National Forest Week is observed annually during the last full week of September. National Tree Day is observed on the Wednesday of National Forest Week.

Researchers can not predict another epidemic but they do know a warming climate will mean the pine beetle will keep moving on to new trees.

Finning has the tools to keep you

running!

Did you know Finning offers Block labour rates?

www.houston-today.com

“

The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The second best time is now.

•

Arrange a tree planting: www.treecanada.ca

•

Take a walk in woods nearby and get to know your forest

•

Care for a newly planted or neglected tree, and study its species

•

Identify all the things at home or school that are made of wood

•

Learn about organizations that demonstrate sustainable forest management

•

Tour a forest sector industry or processing site

•

Learn about the prevention of forest fires

– Mark Twain

Black Press

(if resealed in house) Limited Time Offer.

How to Participate in National Forest Week

Tom Fletcher

Hydraulic Cylinder Re Seal Kit

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Forest fire help tops communities’ wish list

According to a new study the mountain pine beetle is moving to higher elevations.

Ready for Fall?

Houston Today

History of National Forest Week

2014 National

SPECIAL:

Houston Today

50 % OFF

Ensure you have the resource when you need, contact us today!

Proud to Celebrate Forest Week... “Sunrise in the Forest” Celebrating Canada’s Forests in 2014

COMPLETE WELDING SUPPLIES Steel Sales GATES Hydraulic Hoses & Fittings Wire Rope Black Pipe Fittings Safety Equipment Fasteners Oil Spill Kits Tools

&M D INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES 250-845-3334

SALES • PARTS • SERVICE • FINANCING

West Highway 16, Houston 250-845-2213 • www.finning.ca

Located at: 2870 5th Street, Houston Industrial Park Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm • Saturday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Plant a tree because one large, healthy tree can: • Lift up to 4000 litres of water from the ground and release it into the air.

B.C. Wildfire Management Branch/Submitted photo

• Absorb as many as 7000 dust particles per litre of air. • Absorb 75 per cent of the carbon produced by the average car. • Provide a day’s oxygen for up to four people

ton Today

en photo/Hous

Jackie Lieuw

We Salute

National Forest Week September 21-27, 2014 “Sunrise in the Forest”

Tower Communications Ltd. 3459 10th Street, PO Box 1330, Houston

Phone: 250-845-7306 E-mail: tower2@telus.net

Peterbilt of Houston, BC Division of

1420 Morice River Road, PO Box 1446, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0

Proudly serving the Forest Industry in North West B.C.

PACIFIC

TRUCK & EQUIPMENT INC.

250-845-0061 • 1-877-545-0063

Proud contributor to the Forest Industry

Your business is greatly appreciated.

www.monsterindustries.ca

Monday ............. 7:00am Tuesday ............. 7:00am Wednesday ....... 7:00am Thursday ........... 7:00am Friday ................ 7:00am Saturday ............ 8:00am Sunday .............. Closed

8:00pm 8:00pm 8:00pm 8:00pm 6:00pm 5:00pm

Great trucks, parts, equipment and all your servicing needs!

y We’re a full ified d cert an ed nc ce li

PETERBILT DEALER

www.pacifictruck.ca 2226 N. Nadina Ave, P.O Box 730, Houston, BC • Fax: 1-250-845-0062 • Email: info@pacifictruck.ca

www.houston-today.com

NEWS

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Houston Today

Photos submitted

A 60-year old woman died in a head-on collision west of Perow Loop at 12 p.m. Sept. 12. A 22-year old male was trapped in his SUV for an hour before being rushed to the Burns Lake Hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries. Police say the cause is yet to be determined but alcohol doesn’t seem to be a factor.

A vehicle rolled over off Highway 16 near Six Mile Hill at 2:45 p.m. Sept. 13. RCMP Sgt. Rose says the driver wasn’t injured and witness suggests the vehicle was weaving in the lane before it swerved into the ditch. The cause of the crash is undetermined, and vehicle damage was significant.

KNOW THE NEW RULES 2014 GENERAL LOCAL ELECTIONS THIRD PARTY ADVERTISING Third party advertising is any election advertising not sponsored by a candidate or elector organization. If you advertise as a third party from September 30 to November 15 in the 2014 Local Elections, you have new rules to follow under the Local Elections Campaign Financing Act.

■ You must register with Elections BC as a third party sponsor before conducting any advertising.

■ You must include your name and contact information on all advertising. ■ You must not sponsor advertising by, or on behalf of, a candidate or elector organization. More information on the new rules is available at elections.bc.ca/lecfa. Registration forms and the Third Party Sponsor Guide to Local Elections in B.C. can be downloaded at the Third Party Sponsors page. Media outlets cannot publish or transmit election advertising on General Voting Day, Saturday, November 15, 2014.

elections.bc.ca/lecfa 1- 8 5 5 - 9 52- 0 2 8 0

Police report By Jackie Lieuwen

when arrested, and was held until sober and released without Police dealt with charge. *** two calls in the last A male turned week about bears in town. RCMP Sergeant himself in at the Stephen Rose reminds Houston Detachment residents that bears Sept. 16. Sgt. Rose are forging for food says he was wanted on as they fatten up for warrant in Smithers the winter. Residents and Terrace, and should pick up excess was released to face fruit from their trees, charges in court in as it attracts bears October. *** into town. Sgt. Rose Houston police warns that people can an arrest be issued a $343 fine issued for attracting bears warrant for a male by failing to clean up who failed to attend court in Smithers their yards. Sept. 16. Sgt. Rose *** A vehicle hit a bear says Smithers police on Highway 16 east of found and arrested Topley at 10:36 p.m. the male the same Sept. 11. Sgt. Rose day and brought him says the driver wasn’t to court to face his injured but the bear charges. *** was killed and the Police arrested a vehicle moderately male for breach in the damaged. Ambassador Trailer *** Police ticketed two Court at 9:30 p.m. males for drinking Sept. 16. Sgt. Rose liquor in a public says the male was in place at 1:45 a.m. contact with someone Sept 14. Sgt. Rose he wasn’t allowed to says the males were contact, and will face found at the Houston charges in court in mall with open liquor. October. *** *** In seven past days , Police arrested a drunk female on Park police have dealt with Lane at 2:15 a.m. five traffic complaints, Sept. 15. Sgt. Rose two 9-1-1 calls, two says the female was false alarms and one shouting and swearing bylaw complaint. Houston Today

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

CT LE SE

The Houston Christian School hosted a Senior Boys Volleyball tournament last Saturday, competing with teams from Terrace and Smithers. Left: HCS setter Evan Vandenbrink pops a set up to Daniel Vandenbrink for a spike.

SETS Up

Phone:

Jackie Lieuwen/ Houston Today

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ON NOW AT YOUR BC CHEVROLET DEALERS. BCChevroletDealers.ca 1-800-GM-DRIVE. Chevrolet is a brand of General Motors of Canada. Offers apply to the finance and lease of a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze (leasing excludes Diesel), Equinox and Silverado. Freight and PDI included. License, insurance, registration, administration fees, PPSA and taxes not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited time offers which may not be combined with other offers, and are subject to change without notice. Dealer trade may be required. *Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada for vehicles delivered between September 3 and September 30, 2014. 0% purchase financing offered on approved credit by TD Auto Finance Services, Scotiabank® or RBC Royal Bank for 84 months on all new or demonstrator 2014 Chevrolet vehicles, excluding Corvette; special finance rate not compatible with certain cash credits on Silverado (1500 & HD), Equinox and Malibu. Participating lenders are subject to change. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and/or security deposit may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: $20,000 at 0% APR, the monthly payment is $238.10 for 84 months. Cost of borrowing is $0, total obligation is $20,000. Offer is unconditionally interest-free. Freight and air tax ($100, if applicable) included. License, insurance, registration, PPSA, applicable taxes and dealer fees not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Dealer trade may be necessary. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. ≠Offer available to retail customers in Canada only. $500 Customer bonus cash applies to new 2014 Chevrolet Sonic, Cruze, Equinox and Silverado 1500 Double Cab delivered between September 19 and September 29, 2014. The $500 customer bonus cash includes HST/GST/PST as applicable by province. Limited time offers, which may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without notice. See dealer for details. †0% for 48 month lease available on 2014 Cruze (excluding Diesel) based on approved credit by GM Financial. Monthly payments may vary depending on down payment/trade. <>$3,000 is a manufacturer to dealer cash credit (tax exclusive) on all 2014 Equinox which is available for cash purchases only and cannot be combined with special lease and finance rates. By selecting lease or finance offers, consumers are foregoing this $3,000 credit which will result in higher effective interest rates. ††Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any model year 1999 or newer car that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit valid towards the retail purchase or lease of one eligible 2013, 2014, 2015 model year Chevrolet car, SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between September 3 and September 30, 2014. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive) and credit value depends on model purchased: $750 credit available on all eligible Chevrolet. Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any Pontiac/Saturn/SAAB/Hummer/Oldsmobile model year 1999 or newer car or Chevrolet Cobalt or HHR that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit valid towards the retail purchase or lease of one eligible 2013, 2014, 2015 model year Chevrolet car, SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between September 3 and September 30, 2014. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive) and credit value depends on model purchased: $1500 credit available on all eligible Chevrolet vehicles. Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any model year 1999 or newer pick-up truck that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive): $1,000 credit available towards the retail purchase, cash purchase or lease of one eligible 2013, 2014 or 2015 model year Chevrolet light or heavy duty pickup; delivered in Canada between, September 3 and September 30, 2014. Offer is transferable to a family member living within the same household (proof of address required). As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada Limited (GMCL) to verify eligibility. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Certain limitations or conditions apply. Void where prohibited. See your GMCL dealer for details. GMCL reserves the right to amend or terminate offers for any reason in whole or in part at any time without prior notice. †¥$8,000 is a combined credit consisting of a $4,000 manufacturer to dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive), $1,000 September bonus, and a $3,000 manufacturer to dealer cash credit (tax exclusive) for 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Double Cab, which is available for cash purchases only and cannot be combined with special lease and finance rates. By selecting lease or finance offers, consumers are foregoing this $3,000 credit which will result in higher effective interest rates. Discounts vary by model and cash credit excludes Silverado 1500 Double Cab 2WD 1WT. *^Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) New Car Assessment Program (www.SaferCar.gov). WBased on GM Testing in accordance with approved Transport Canada test methods. Your actual fuel consumption may vary. >Based on WardsAuto.com 2012 Upper Small segment, excluding Hybrid and Diesel powertrains. Standard 10 airbags, ABS, traction control and StabiliTrak. ~Visit onstar.ca for coverage map, details and system limitations. Services vary by model and conditions. OnStar acts as a link to existing emergency service providers. After complimentary trial period, an active OnStar service plan is required. ¥Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded 2014 Equinox the 2014 Top Safety Pick Plus Award when equipped with available forward collision alert. **Comparison based on 2013 Polk segmentation: Compact SUV and latest competitive data available and based on the maximum legroom available. Excludes other GM brands. ++2014 Chevrolet Equinox FWD equipped with standard 2.4L ECOTEC® I-4 engine. Comparison based on Natural Resources Canada’s 2014 Fuel Consumption Guide. ¥¥Based on Wardsauto.com 2013 Large Pickup segment and last available information at the time of posting. Excludes other GM vehicles. Maximum trailer weight ratings are calculated assuming base vehicle, except for any option(s) necessary to achieve the rating, plus driver. The weight of other optional equipment, passengers and cargo will reduce the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow. See your dealer for additional details. ‡2014 Silverado 1500 with the available 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission has a fuel-consumption rating of 13.0L/100 km city and 8.7L/100 km hwy 2WD and 13.3L/100 km city and 9.0L/100 km hwy 4WD. Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine has a fuel consumption rating of 12.9L/100 km city and 9.0L/100 km hwy 2WD and 14.1L/100 km city and 9.6L/100 km hwy 4WD. Fuel consumption based on GM testing in accordance with approved Transport Canada test methods. Your actual fuel consumption may vary. ‡‡Whichever comes first. See dealer/manufacturer for details. Based on Wardsauto.com 2013 Large Pickup segment and last available information at the time of posting. ^Whichever comes first. Limit of four ACDelco Lube-Oil-Filter services in total. Fluid top-offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc., are not covered. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ^^Whichever comes first. See dealer for details.

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HOPE forToday Godly Children

When our oldest son was very young, we had the opportunity of looking after a little baby. His parents left him in our care for two weeks. This family was very expressive and the baby seemed on edge much of the time. When we agreed to take care of the little fellow, I thought how different it would be with somebody else’s baby in our house; all the work and inconvenience he would bring. Two weeks seemed to be a long time; the diapers, the crying, the getting up at night. I was not very excited about this plan. Then I held him and talked to him when he was upset. I helped to feed him when he was hungry. I think I even changed his diapers a few times. As we took care of him he grew on us, he fit right in to our home. He calmed down and seemed more relaxed. I started to enjoy having him around and looked forward to holding him. One day just before his parents came back, I thought, I love this boy like my own son. He could become a part of our family, just like our biological child. There would be no difference. It was a wonderful feeling! All this change, in less than two weeks! Needless to say we really missed him when his parents took him home. We have a friend who told me how grateful she was for her parents who adopted her when she was a little child and raised her in the love of God. She loves them and considers it a great blessing that they chose her as their child. She sometimes wonders about her biological mother but has no real interest in looking for her because she receives all the love and care she needs from her present Mom and Dad. Sometimes married couples cannot have children for whatever reason. Their love for others, especially homeless or parentless children, can have a powerful effect on them as they adopt them as their own and raise them as Godly children. They can be just as good or better parents than some who have biological children. God shows his love towards us and wants to adopt us into his family so we can show his love to those around us, by allowing him to have his way in our hearts (John 1:12; Galatians 5:22,23). The apostle Paul, when addressing the believers in Rome said “… you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him ‘Abba Father.’ For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.” Romans 8:15,16 NLT Submitted by Ken Penner Sponsored by Riverside Gardens

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

NEWS

Houston Today

School-industry partnership to help fix labour gap

JOBS from Page 1 WORKER TRANSITION The first priority was to continue to support the transition of workers impacted by the closure of Houston Forest Products. Newell said they found indicators that the community may need more transition activities after the workers severance and Employment Insurance benefits run out, and after the ripple effects of the closure become evident. The Labour Market Strategy suggests the District use the Houston Health Committee to monitor the need for a future job fair or other support. That would be done by talking to service providers about the needs they are seeing. Another job fair is not planned but may come in the future if the need arises, said Pat Hufnagel-Smith. WORK WHERE YOU LIVE The second priority was to promote a “work where you live” value. Employers are having a hard time attracting skill sets that aren’t readily available in this area, and with much of the skilled workforce retiring, it might be tough to find managers and supervisors, Newell said. The LMS suggests that the District develop training for employers to get tools to attract, recruit and retain workers. Some of those tools would be promoting the lifestyle, community amenities and affordable housing, and recruiting spouses. Newell said one local employer was able to attract workers, but found it hard to attract spouses.

It would help if there was facilitation to connect a new family to the community, like someone to welcome them and shows them what’s available for recreation and work in Houston, Newell said. RESILIENT ECONOMY The economic health of Houston depends on the growth and prosperity of existing business, and on people being able to fill the needs of the workforce.

promote what they have to offer to bigger companies such as LNG or mines. YOUTH TRANSITION Newell says income assistance numbers are showing that many local youth are not effectively transitioning from high school and college into the workforce. This priority was really important to Houston stakeholders, Newell said. The LMS suggests that the school, college

said it’s exciting that School District 54 sees the shop as a real opportunity to expand their training, and ACE-IT programs are a great way to solve class-size problems. Having a formal relationship between SD54, NWCC and industry would keep programs sustainable to consistently run. Promoting programs is important as well, because there have been times when information about programs being offered didn’t reach par-

Jackie Lieuwen/Houston Today

Consultants Pat Hufnagel-Smith and Andrea Newell are researching and developing a Houston Labour Market Strategy to be done end of September. For a more resilient economy and workforce, Newell said businesses need to know how to diversify and workers need to know about how their skills transfer between sectors of business (between logging, mining, construction, etc.). The LMS suggests that the District help people understand investment and economic development planned for this region, encourage selfemployment, and focus training on indemand occupations. Newell said Houston stakeholders really wanted to have a reverse trade fair here, where smaller contractors and companies

The main City Ofcials recruit using LocalWork.ca

and industry develop a formal relationship to offer programs to help youth transition into the workforce more effectively. Newell says the ACT-IT millwright program is a great example, partnering School District 54, NWCC and Monster, which also uniquely includes adults in the training. “That’s really good work… but it’s not formalized,” she said, adding that there are models of formal partnerships like Northern Opportunities and Coastal Pathways. Houston stakeholders “really liked this idea,” Newell said. H u f n ag e l - S m i t h

ents, Newell said. Social media strategies would be important because that’s what students are absorbing, she added. Finally, they suggested adding more real life information and job search skills into their existing career programs. ADDRESS BARRIERS There are residents in Houston with barriers keeping them from the workforce, including lack of high school, literacy issues, no drivers licence or reliable transportation, lack of childcare or health issues. To address this, LMS suggested the

District work with the Houston Health Committee to find ways to address barriers. The strategy suggests more opportunities for people to improve literacy, computer literacy, and get their Dogwood diplomas. A “Introduction for Women in Trades” program was suggested, as well as more funding to help youth with multiple barriers get their dogwood and transition into the workforce. Newell said they discussed support for the Youth Empowerment Program (YEP), which was very successful and helped eight students graduate last year. Their funding was cut off and they have a temporary solution to continue until December, Newell said. CONCLUSION The LMS consultants are working on the final draft of the Houston Labour Market Strategy to be done by the end of September. Mayor Bill Holmberg said he likes the direction of the LMS, and the wide spectrum it covers. “I think you pretty much nailed it,” he said, adding that his biggest concern is funding to move the priorities forward. C o u n c i l l o r Michalle Jolly said a lot of the priorities are already moving forward with the work of the pillars. Newell agreed, adding that a lot can happen at the local level. She said formalizing the relationship between the schools and industry would be an easier one to move forward, as there are existing models to use to leverage funding.

r A Free Call Today Fo ing Quote dvertis Recruitment A

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Houston Today

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

COMMUNITY

www.houston-today.com

Seniors fun and community engagement

hannels New TV C

Coming!

TV Rebroadcasting Society Annual General Meeting 7:30 p.m. – Monday Sept. 29th The Old Church Corner of King & First, Smithers Your source for FREE local TV : For more information WWW.TVSMITHERS.COM 250.847.2838 Everybody Welcome!

Cobie Martens of the Southside 4-H Club would like to

THANK Bill Sullivan of Sullivan Motor Products for purchasing her Grand Champion lamb Stormy.

Above: Sheila Keller, Bunny Timms, Virginia Halfe, Ann Vandenhoek and Evelyn Atkinson enjoy a game of Canasta at the Pleasant Valley Village on Avalon. Seniors get together every Monday and Thursday for tea, goodies and cards, usually Hand and Foot Canasta or “65” (also known as nickels). “It’s lots of fun, and it keeps the brain going,” Bunny said. Below: Darlene Pye, Elsie Ophus, Barbara Elnicki, Judy Clarke, Dorothy Himech and Bonnie Gosnell enjoy a few games of bingo at Cottonwood Manor. Known as the “Happy Gang,” this group meets every Tuesday night at 7 p.m. for bingo night. Seniors also enjoy games on Wednesdays and movie nights some Fridays. Jackie Lieuwen photos/ Houston Today

Thank you for supporting 4-H in Burns Lake.

Stop by and check out our fall specials on Wood & Pellet Stoves

17 models on display “Our Prices Will Warm YOu!”

g n i t a e ll H FaSALE Ends Oct. 31, 2014

Your Heating Destination Over 12 people attended the Age-Friendly Open House last Wednesday. The Open House was to give the public opportunity to review the plan, and Director of Engineering John Guenther says the plan will be adopted by council in the next month and then will inform several changes to the Official Community Plan, which will happen in January.

Burns Lake 165 Francois Lake Dr. Phone: 1-250-692-7725

16 www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, September 24, 2014 Houston Today

Your community. Your classiďŹ eds.

250.845.2890 fax 250.845.7893 email advertising@houston-today.com The Houston Mall, Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0 Phone: (250) 845-2890 Fax: (250) 845-7893 email: advertising@houston-today.com Published Every Wednesday

TO REACH THE MARKET First advertise in the Houston Today! ALL WORD ADS go on the Internet for the whole world to see! www.bcclassified.com

REACHING US

Call 250-845-2890 or come by our office. Hours are 9:00 - 11:00 am & 1:00 - 3:00 pm Mon. & Wed. thru Fri. (closed Tuesdays). Fax in your ad to 250-845-7893 or email: advertising@houston-today.com

HOW TO PAY

Come to our office in the Houston Mall, or you may pay with Visa or Mastercard over the phone. All ads must be prepaid. No refunds.

CLASSIFIED AD RATES REGULAR WORD ADS

3 lines (one week) .............$9.95

LEGAL ADS $12.60 per col. inch HWY 16 REGIONAL ADS

3 lines - No changes - ad runs in: Burns Lake, Vanderhoof, Prince George, Houston, Smithers, Ft. St. James, Prince Rupert, Terrace, Kitimat, Northern Connector (1 week) ............................... $78.88

BC BEST BUY ADS

25 words- No changes - ad runs one week, all papers covering: Lower Mainland .............$102.28 BCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Interior ..................$124.95 Vancouver Island ...........$119.00 All of the Above .............$299.00 Extra charge for additional words

HAPPY ADS 2 col. x 2â&#x20AC;? or 1 col. x 4â&#x20AC;? To announce birthdays, weddings, births etc ............................ $20.00 Please call if you need more information on any of our classified packages.

ALL ABOVE PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE GST

DEADLINES Thursday: 5:00pm

OUR POLICY

Houston Today reserves the right to edit, revise, classify or reject any classified ad not meeting our standards. No refunds on Classifieds Ads. AGREEMENT - It is agreed by the advertiser requesting space that the liability of the Houston Today (Black Press Group Limited) in the event of failure to publish an advertisement in or the event of an error appearing in the advertisement as published shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for only one incorrect insertion or the portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect or omitted item only, and that there shall be no liability in any event greater than the amount paid for such advertising. All claims of errors in advertising must be received by the publisher within 2 days after the first publication. All advertising is subject to the approval of the publisher. The Houston Today reminds advertisers that under Provincial legislation, no person shall use or circulate any form of application for employment, publish or cause to be published an advertisement in connection with employment or prospective employment, or make any written or verbal inquiry of an applicant that (a) expresses, either directly or indirectly any limitation, specification or preference as to race, religion, colour, sex, martial status, age, ancestry, or place of origin or a person; or (b) requires an applicant to furnish any information concerning race, religion, colour, ancestry, place of origin or political belief. In order to be credited for any mistakes the Houston Today is responsible for, corrections must be made before the second insertion.

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

Announcements

Employment

Coming Events

Drivers/Courier/ Trucking

Labourers

Trades, Technical

LABOURERS Houston, BC

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Happy Gangâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

DH Manufacturing in Houston BC is looking for labourers. Must be reliable, physically fit and willing to work shift work. Starting wage up to $16.75/hr. Benefit package after 3 months employment. Email dhmnfg@gmail.com

Silent Auction Items are on display at the Pleasant Valley Restaurant. Information AL-ANON Are you affected by someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drinking? Al-Anon meetings are Monday, 7pm at the Houston United Church. Contact number: (250) 8457774.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Meetings are at the Houston United Church, Monday and Thursday at 7:00pm. Contact number is:1-877-644-2266

ClassiďŹ eds Get Results! Personals MEET SINGLES right now! No paid operators, just real people like you. Browse greetings, exchange messages and connect live. Try it free. Call now: 1-800-712-9851

Travel

Timeshare CANCEL YOUR Timeshare. no Risk Program stop Mortgage & Maintenance payments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consultation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248

Travel FOY SPA RV Resort Canadian winter special $9.95/day. All new fitness center, hot mineral springs, events, activities, entertainment. New guests, Call for info 888-800-0772, www.foyspa.com

Trades, Technical PCL ENERGY - Now hiring Journeyperson: Millwrights ($40+/hr) and Scaffolders ($38+/hr) for immediate shutdown work on an industrial project in Vanscoy, SK. LOA of $145/day worked, travel and bonuses paid! We offer competitive wages and benefits. Call 780-468-8026, email: pclenergyjobs@pcl.com

Help Wanted

Apply to:

WHERE DO YOU TURN

TO LEARN WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON SALE?

YOUR NEWSPAPER:

The link to your community

Help Wanted An Alberta Oilfield Company is hiring experienced dozer and excavator operators, meals and lodging provided. Drug testing required. 1-(780)7235051.

Pleasant Valley Restaurant

Help Wanted

Full-Time Shipping and Receiving Clerk / Delivery Driver for our Houston store. Great benefits, work schedule and opportunity for advancement. Must have valid driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license. Those interested are encouraged to apply in-store at 2805 Kanata Avenue or by email to jwatts@uapinc.com

S.M. QUENNELL TRUCKING is looking for LOG TRUCK drivers, based in

WELDER

Cranbrook.

Full time work; home every night. Excellent medical, dental, pension benefits Wages competitive with industry standards. Fax resume and drivers abstract to:

fax:250-426-4610 or call: 250-426-6853

Phone: 250-845-2232 Fax resume to: 250-845-3650

Help Wanted

Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0

Napa Auto Parts is looking for a

West Fraser Mills Ltd. requires a Journeyman Welder for shift work at Pacific Inland Resources in Smithers, BC. West Fraser offers a comprehensive benefits package. Please submit resume in person, by mail or by fax before October 8th, 2014 to: Dean MacDonald Pacific Inland Resources Box 3130 Smithers, BC V0J 2N0 Fax: 250-847-5520

+RXVWRQ )HOORZVKLS %DSWLVW &KXUFK 3790 C.R. Matthews Rd. 3DVWRU /DUU\ %DOODQW\QH

&KXUFK 6HUYLFH $0

Business Opportunities

Houston Canadian Reformed Church

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION is an in-demand career in Canada! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get the online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-888528-0809 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Trades, Technical Looking for Planer Man & Millwrights for out of town work. 2 weeks on/2 weeks off shift. Fax resume to: 250-2432418.

2 EXPERIENCED COOKS & WAITRESS POSITION

Everyone Welcome! 3KRQH

Education/Trade Schools

Employment

NOW HIRING FOR:

Employment

GET FREE vending machines. Can earn $100,000 + per year. All cash-retire in just 3 years. Protected Territories. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629. Website www.tcvend.com

Employment

SUNDAY SERVICES: 10:00 AM & 2:30 PM Pastor Carl VanDam s.carl.vandam@canrc.org 2IĂ&#x20AC; FH 3KRQH ~ Everyone Welcome ~ 3797 Omineca Way, Box 36, Houston, BC

Houston Christian Reformed Church 1959 Goold St., Box 6, Houston 250-845-7578

3DVWRU 0DUWLQ 9HOOHNRRS ~ Everyone Welcome! ~

Services: 10:00 am & 3:00 pm

Employment Opportunity

Certified Orthodontic Dental Assistant One weekend a month in Smithers, BC. Saturday, Sunday, Monday. Must have ortho module. Mail resume to: Box 3718 Smithers, BC V0J 2N0 Contact: 250-847-1555 or email accentorthodontics@hotmail.com

3 FULL TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE:

HOUSTON FOOD MARKET

3428 - 9th Street, Houston â&#x20AC;˘ email: hfmbob@telus.net â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Customer service - making subs, pitas, pizzas. Kitchen work as required. Must be able to work weekends and nights as required. Must be able to work split shifts as required. Part time also accepted but must work weekends & nights. Full time is 40 hours per week.

Rate: $10.25 - $11.50 per hour

APPLY WITH RESUME

HOUSTON & AREA

CHURCH DIRECTORY Anglican Church of St. Clement

2324 Butler Ave., Box 599, Houston, BC

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

Phone: 250-845-4940

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

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Services are: 10:30 a.m. Sundays 2106 Butler Ave. Houston, B.C. Contact: 250-845-2282

6HUYLFHV DUH D P 6XQGD\V

Santokh Singh Manhas 250-845-2705 Houston, B.C. V0J lZ0

Houston Today Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Employment

Services

Trades, Technical

Financial Services LARGE FUND Borrowers Wanted Start saving hundreds of dollars today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts. We don’t rely on credit, age or income. Call Anytime 1-800-639-2274 or 604-430-1498. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca

www.houston-today.com 17

Services

Pets & Livestock

Legal

Home Improvements

Livestock

Legal Notices

FULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, reliable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1800-573-2928

DORPER Cross Sheep flock for sale. 15 ewes and 25 lambs. $4500. Phone 250397-4126.

FIND A FRIEND

A- STEEL SHIPPING DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS Used 20’40’45’ 53’ and insulated containers all sizes in stock. SPECIAL Trades are welcome. 40’ Containers under $2500! DMG 40’ containers under $2,000 each. Also JD 544 &644 wheel Loaders Wanted to buy 300 size hydraulic excavator Ph Toll free 1-866-528-7108 Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com

Legal Notices Career Opportunities

Canfor Houston Operations 2007- 2017 Forest Stewardship Plan Amendment 21 Notice of Review and Comment In accordance with FPPR 20 (1) the proposed Forest Stewardship POan (FSP) siJni¿cant amendment 21 for Canfor, Houston operations, the Dungate Community Forest, Lowell Johnson Consultants (Moricetown), Lake Babine Nation and Wet’suwet’en First Nations is publically available for review and written comment commencing on September 24th, 2014 for a period of sixty (60) days. The proposed amendments adds Two Wet’suwet’en First Nation tenures A72921 and N2A in the Morice TSA. The two measures for invasive plants and natural range barriers are also being reviewed for minor changes.

EXPERIENCE IS an asset We offer free recruitment services for people aged 45 and over across Canada. Register now at: www.thirdquarter.ca or call toll-free: 1-855-286-0306.

Services

Financial Services ARE YOU $10K or more in debt? DebtGo can help reduce a significant portion of your debt load. Call now and see if you qualify. 1-800-351-1783. 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.

Houston Comfor FDU is being merged with the Morice FDU since there are no speci¿c clauses to separate the two. They are both subject to the same legal requirements. This FSP amendment is available for review until December 1st , 2014, at Canfor’s of¿ce on the Morice River Road in Houston, B.C. From 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Appointments to review are recommended. The deadline for receiving written comments is December 1st, 2014. Please address any written comments to: Greg Yeomans, Canadian Forest Products Limited. P.O. Box 158, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0 Telephone: (250) 845-5225 E-mail: Greg.Yeomans@canfor.com

Eavestrough

Continuous Aluminum Gutters 250-846-5509 w_vh@hotmail.com

Bulkley Valley Eavestroughing Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

QUALITY CONTROL SUPERVISOR

L&M Lumber is currently seeking a qualiŵed Quality Control Supervisor to oversee all quality related aspects of the manufacturing of lumber in our Sawmill and Planer. We are a highly automated stud mill facility located in Vanderhoof BC, and have an annual production of 220 MMFBM. The ideal candidate will ideally have extensive knowledge of the entire sawmilling process, including programming of optimized breakdown, edging and grading systems, and kiln drying. The Quality Control Supervisor candidate will possess the following qualiŵcations: Education • Minimum Grade 12 Diploma, relevant Post Secondary Education is an asset • Current Lumber Grading Ticket. Experience • Several years experience with sawmill/planermill QC programs • Demonstrated ability to program and troubleshoot optimization software • Strong PC skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel • Familiarity with Japanese grades • Familiarity with Kiln Drying is an asset. Personality Traits • A self starter with good analytical skills that is able to communicate effectively in both written and verbal form. The candidate must also be able to work with other employees and management to achieve goals within deadlines. The candidate must be willing to work directly on the mill Ŷoor monitoring lumber quality and seeking opportunities for improvement. Although the position is generally dayshift the candidate must be willing to work Ŷexible hours/shifts. The position will report directly to the Plant Manager. L&M/Nechako Lumber offers a competitive compensation and beneŵts package. Starting salary will be commensurate with experience. Please submit your Resume to the attention of Tammy Scott, Ofŵce Manager on or before October 3, 2014.

Applications can be forwarded by: E-mail: tammy.scott@nechako.com • Fax: 250 567-2424 Mail: PO Box 100 • 1241 Hwy 16 West Vanderhoof BC V0J 3A0

Local Government Act – s. 70 Notice 3-2

2014 GENERAL SCHOOL ELECTION

Auctions

Misc. for Sale

Eavestrough

(Nechako Lakes)

Merchandise for Sale MASSIVE September 27th Food Equipment Auction Hobart Mixers & Meat Process, Bunn Coffee, True Refrigeration, Cambro Smallwares, over 800 lots! Online bidding available via BidSpotter. www.KwikAuctions.com

Legal Services

School District No. 91

NOTICE OF NOMINATION Public Notice is given to the electors of School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) that nominations will be accepted for the office of school trustee for the term commencing December 2014 and terminating in 2018, as follows: No. of Trustees 2 trustees 1 trustee 1 trustee 1 trustee 1 trustee 1 trustee

Electoral Area Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6

Name of Electoral Area Engen, Mapes, Vanderhoof and Cluculz Lake Topley, Decker Lake and Granisle Burns Lake and Rural Area Grassy Plains and Francois Lake Endako, Fraser Lake and Fort Fraser Fort St. James, Manson Creek, Germanson and Takla Landings

Nominations will be accepted from 9:00 am September 30 to 4:00 pm October 10, 2014 by the Chief Election Officer or a designated person, by hand, mail or other delivery service as follows: Darlene Turner Secretary Treasurer School Board Office 153 East Connaught Street Box 129, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0 (T) 250-567-2284 • (F) 250-567-4639 Donna Benson Western Division Office Muriel Mould Neighbourhood Learning Centre 270 9th Avenue, Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 (T) 250-692-7782 • (F) 250-692-7145 Kevin Crook Chief Administrative Officer; or Emily Colombo Economic Development Officer District of Fort St. James 477 Stuart Drive West Box 640, Fort St. James, BC V0J 1P0 (T) 250-996-8233 • (F) 250-996-2248

From: 9:00 am Tuesday, September 30, 2014 To: 4:00 pm Friday, October 10, 2014 Excluding statutory holidays and weekends.

From: 9:00 am Tuesday, September 30, 2014 To: 4:00 pm Friday, October 10, 2014 During regular business hours.

Chief Elections Officer Rosanne Murray Box 698, Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 (T) 250-694-3242 • (F) 250-694-3243 (C) 250-692-6269 (E) Woodsage@lakescom.net

From: 9:00 am Tuesday, September 30, 2014 To: 4:00 pm Friday, October 10, 2014 By arrangement.

Deputy Chief Elections Officer Janice Baker (C) 250-570-8321 (E) baker64@telus.net

From: 9:00 am Tuesday, September 30, 2014 To: 4:00 pm Friday, October 10, 2014 By arrangement.

NOTE: Originals of faxed or emailed nomination documents must be received by the Chief Elections Officer by 4 p.m. on Friday, October 17, 2014. Nomination documents are available as listed for accepting nominations above and also at the following district schools: • • • • • • • • •

Babine Elementary Secondary School in Granisle, BC Decker Lake Elementary School in Decker Lake, BC Lakes District Secondary School in Burns Lake, BC Grassy Plains Elementary Junior Secondary School in Grassy Plains, BC Fraser Lake Elementary School in Fraser Lake, BC Fort Fraser Elementary School in Fort Fraser, BC Fort St. James Secondary School in Fort St. James, BC Nechako Valley Secondary School in Vanderhoof, BC Nomination documents are also available at the District of Fort St. James Municipal Office, 477 Stuart Drive West in Fort St. James, BC

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE A person is qualified to be nominated, elected, and to hold office as a School Trustee if they meet the following criteria: • • • •

Canadian citizen; 18 years of age or older on general voting day, November 15, 2014; resident of British Columbia for at least 6 months immediately before the day nomination papers are filed; and not disqualified under the School Act or any other enactment from being nominated for, being elected to or holding office as a trustee, or be otherwise disqualified by law.

For further information, please contact: • •

Rosanne Murray, Chief Election Officer, Box 698 Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 (T) 250-694-3242 (F) 250-694-3243 (C) 250-692-6269 (E) woodsage@lakescom.net Janice Baker, Deputy Chief Election Officer, Box 2091 Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0 (C) 250-570-8321 (E) baker64@telus.net

Rosanne Murray Chief Election Officer

By shopping local you support local people.

18 www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, September 24, 2014 Houston Today

NEW LIS TING!

A LOT OF LIVABILITY! • Spacious, custom built 4/5 bedroom family home in a great area backing onto a green belt! • Great mountain views out your living room window! • Very open country kitchen with an eating bar. Huge living room, 3 bdrms up, 2 down. Many recent updates including main floor bath. • Family room in completely finished basement as well as every man’s dream workshop. • Sundeck with a hot tub., fenced yard, playhouse, lots of parking, paved drive! Fridge, stove, dishwasher, window covering & hot tub incl!

167,500

CALL LIA TO VIEW $

16 of FredHIGHWAY & Pauline Warren

Regional Houston Classifieds

Recycling

BUYING... SELLING... TRADING?

Have your classified ad running in.... thank all our patrons for Houston Today their support overNews the Smithers Interior Terrace Standard last six years. Kitimat Sentinel WePrince extend Best Wishes to Rupert Northern View Northern Connector new owner

For Sale By Owner

PRIVATE SALE - BY OWNER - GREAT INVESTMENT!! LARGE 3 Bedroom Home with Garage & Workshop

4951 - 4thth Ave, Smithers

BONUSMORTGAGE HELPER!!

Newly Newly finished finished large large 22 bedroom bedroom suite suite with with separate separate entrance. entrance. All All appliances appliances included. included. Basement Basement suite suite (900 (900 sq.ft.) sq.ft.) Large Large landscaped landscaped lot, lot, garden garden area, area, patios. patios. 22 minute minute walk walk to to Smithers Smithers Golf Golf & & Country Country Club. Club. Very Very safe safe neighbourhood. neighbourhood. FOR FOR MORE MORE INFORMATION: INFORMATION: Call Call Ryan Ryan 250-877-0657 250-877-0657 or or Terry Terry 778-210-1703 778-210-1703 email: email: rwmadley@gmail.com rwmadley@gmail.com

MAJOR RENOVATION Good location with terrific view

145,000

John Koo

COUNTRY RANCHER!

239,900

CALL LIA TO VIEW $

for only...

• 4 bedroom home on a cul-de-sac close to schools. • Gorgeous updated kitchen featuring new cabinets, countertops, flooring and trim. • Island in kitchen with an eating bar. Patio doors off kitchen to sundeck in private fenced backyard. Another deck with a hot tub as well. • Laminate floors in kitchen, living room and hallway. • Fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave, window coverings & hot tub included. • Newer Energy Star N/Gas Furnance.

145,900

SPACE AND SUNSHINE, A MUST Bulkley Valley CreditSEE! Union EPS Logos to be supplied to Newspapers

• Very well kept, bright, spacious home on just under 5 acres. • Located minutes from town. Huge country kitchen w/ ample cupboards. • 3 good sized bedrooms on the main and a 17x22 master in the basement with a 3pc en suite. 20x23 rec-room with a pellet stove. • Sundeck, fire pit, nice lawn area and plenty of space to build a shop. • Water filtration system. Fridge, stove, dishwasher & window coverings incl. • Call Lia to view 250-845-1147.

272,500

New cupboards - vanities - roofing - siding - hot and cold water lines. Improvement to flooring, windows insulation Spacious 3 bedrooms - large kitchen and living room Solid crawl space foundation. Gas furnace and gas fireplace For sale by renovator. Call to view Dennis 250 845 9524

For Sale by Owner

*Home-based business opportunity

Recreational/Sale For sale or trade for newer 8’ Camper. 19’ 1991 Terry Resort bumper hitch trailer, very good cond. 1-250-398-5224

545,000.00

+GST

Houston Recycling Return-It™ Depot

FINE ADDRESS TO COME HOME TO!

Transportation

3 lines (No changes) runs 1 week in all 9 papers

2266 Nadina Ave., Houston Phone: 250-845-2590

Pantone colours:

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.

Private Coin Collector Buying Collections, Accumulations, Olympic Gold & Silver Coins + Chad: 778-281-0030. Local.

Vanderhoof Omineca Express

• Extensive renovations to this spacious 3 bdrm home on the popular Lund Rd. • Gorgeous, brand new 13’3 x 22’7 kitchen w/dark cherry cabinets, walk-in pantry, tonnes of cupboard space & countertops, stainless steel appliances. • Fresh paint & new flooring. New 6 ft patio doors off dining area to deck & beautiful private backyard. 8 foot ceilings in the living room & family room. • Family room features a woodstove. Huge foyer with new flooring and paint. • And...for the guys, a new 30x30 detached garage/workshop w/9x16 door. • Insulated and wired. 200 amp service. Several out buildings as well. • Drilled well, large parking area. All appliances & window coverings included.

STEEL BUILDINGS. “Giftcard give-away!” 20x22 $4,358. 25x24 $4,895. 30x30 $6,446. 32x32 $7,599. 40x46 $12,662. 47x72 $18,498. One end wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422 or online at: www.pioneersteel.ca

Misc. Wanted

Lakes District News

& Fort St. James who has purchased the Caledonia Courier business.

Misc. for Sale HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/ newspaper?

Pantone 287 Pantone 356 Pantone 139

The Hometown Experts with a World of Experience® Black/Grey Logo file

P.O. Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0 Phone: 250-845-2890 Fax: 250-845-7893

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

4000 sq.ft. warehouse

5 bedroom house

Office/Studio

5855 Lake Kathlyn Rd, 4km west of Smithers: 5 bedroom house, 4 room office/studio and 4000 sq ft heated warehouse with 3 phase power on 1.59 acres, fully gated compound, fantastic mountain and lake view. Would consider house in Smithers as trade equity. For an appointment to view - call 250-877-3479, serious inquiries only

Houston COMMUNITY CALENDAR Topley

Please keep your announcements as brief as (17642) on Buck Flats Rd. All Buck Flats residents are possible. Deadline (faxed or mailed or delivered) is welcome to attend, we discuss issues concerning the 4 p.m. Thursday. Items are printed or alternated as Buck flats area, with an emphasizes on road conditions space permits. Items will be accepted via fax, email through our Buck Flats road user group, fire prevention or dropped at the office. No phone calls please. and protection through our volunteer fire department More calendar items are listed online and can be group, and planning of a community/ fire hall. Please call Chris Newell at 250-845-3564 for more information. submitted or viewed at www.houston-today.com Library Events: Adult Book Club - Come grab your copy Activities for Seniors in Houston at the Seniors Centre: of “Burial Rites” by Hannah Kent. Read, read, read. And Carpet Bowling Tues. & Fri. 1:00 PM • Floor Curling then join us for a discussion and an Icelandic delicacy Mon. 1:00 PM • Pool any afternoon to schedule call; on Thurs., Sept. 25 @ 7:00PM. After- School Program - Adrian-250-845-2338 • Breakfasts- first Sat. of the Kids, ages 8-12, come on down to the Houston Public month, community invited. • Soup and Sandwich Library Thursday afternoons from 2:30-4:30PM, starting luncheon- third Thurs. of the month. Community invited. At Pleasant Valley Village, 3603 11th St.: Senior Exercise, Oct. 2, to play games, take part in workshops, Julyread 2007 Mon. & Fri 10:00 AM • Cards Mon. & Thurs. 7:00 PM. books, make crafts, and have fun! Houston Ringette registration is open for 2014/2015 At the Bowling Alley: Seniors bowling Wed. 1:30 PM. At season, Ice time begins Sept. 30. Registration forms are the Houston Swimming Pool: Aquafit, Mon., Wed. & Fri. available and fees can be dropped off at Emberson 9-10 AM. At Willow Grove Golf Course: Senior’s golf (in Blue Plumbing & Heating. Come try Ringette has been season) every Thurs. 10 AM. Houston’s “Love by the Bowl” Soup Kitchen serving Green scheduled for first two weeks on the ice. Houston Christian Hockey deadline for registrations healthy homemade soups in two different seatings, Harvest this year will be Sept. 30. Registrations will also be 11:00 -12:00 and 12:00 -1:00 on Wednesdays. available at the Houston Christian School as well as the The Houston Legion Branch 249: Meeting: 2nd Monday of the month is Executive, 4th Monday is arena for those wishing to register sooner. Coffee Break - an Interactive Women’s Bible Study General Meeting. meet every Wed. morning starting Sept. 24 from 9:30- Seniors Bingo is every Tuesday at 7:00pm at 11:00 at the Houston Christian Reformed Church, 1959 Cottonwood Manor. Entry is $1. Come out & enjoy a fun Goold Road. Childcare is provided. For more info call prize filled evening. Lots Margaret: 845-2348, Darlene 845-7438, Evelyn 696- of prizes! 3229. Houston Secondary webpage: Buck Flats Community Development Society, meets School Colour Logo File every 3rd Sat. evening at 6pm at Andy Pollack’s house http://hssweb.sd54.bc.ca

Structural Firefighting/Hwy Rescue. Interested? Topley Volunteer Fire Dept. is accepting applications. No experience necessary please contact Byron - F/C 250-696-3348 or come to a Fire Practice Thurs @ 19:00 hrs (7pm). Topley Fire Protection Society meetings every second Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm.

Granisle

Granisle and District Seniors meeting every 2nd Sunday of the month at 7:00pm at the Seniors Centre. Granisle Volunteer Fire Department meetings & fire practices every Tues., 7:00pm at the Fire Hall. Granisle Church of the Way services are Sunday, 11:00am.

Community Calendar proudly sponsored by

Lia Long 250-845-1147

Bulkley Valley Re/Max Houston CREDIT UNION 2436 Poulton Ave., Houston, BC e-mail: remaxhou@telus.net Locally owned and operated

Call 250-845-7325 www.realtor.ca

www.remaxhouston.ca

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

www.bvcu.com

Silverthorne’s Strong Start Program Community Donation $625.00. Donation was used for the manipulative and small props.

Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

y t i B n u u i l m d e m rs o C

Brought to you by your MLA John Rustad

Pioneers

Courageous Battles

Serving the communities of... Houston

Athletes

Achieving

Human Interest

Featuring the spirit of the local people

Roberta Russell: An educational journey By Mark West Submitted

An old worn out note was pinned to the notice board in a retirement home not far from my office in Houston. It simply read “To care for those who once cared for us is one of our highest honors.” I reflected on this as Roberta Russell took a seat across from me. We had barely exchanged a few words in greeting but I could already feel the warmth of her smile brightening up my day and I found myself immediately at ease in her company. Roberta recently graduated from the highly successful Health Care Assistant program run by Northwest Community College. I had heard about Roberta from colleagues who often spoke candidly about an aboriginal woman who had shown remarkable courage and determination during her studies. I was keen to find out more and discover what had attracted Roberta to the HCA program and gain an insight into her educational journey. “I hadn’t really thought about a career in health care until I did an Occupational First Aid level 3 course,” said Roberta. “The instructor pulled me aside and said that I could do better than this and should consider a career in nursing. That was seven years ago. Originally I set my sights on becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse but at the time I was a single mom holding down two jobs and there just wasn’t enough time. Then late last year the Health Care Assistant program was announced and I knew that this was my chance to train for a profes-

“

“It’s simple: I’ve found something that I am really passionate about.” Roberta Russell

sional, full-time career. Roberta enrolled in Career and College Preparation (CCP) at Houston’s NWCC to upgrade before applying to the HCA program. “I cannot speak highly enough of all the CCP instructors and staff who have been a constant source of support and encouragement,” she said. “Much of the attraction of CCP is its flexible and all inclusive approach to education. Everyone is welcome regardless of their ability. The CCP department is also open on some evenings to enable employed students the opportunity to go to school.” Roberta singled out Sandi Lavallie in particular for her inspirational guidance, continual reassurance and steadfast belief in all of her students. “I heard via another member of staff that I had been ‘highly recommended’ for the HCA program by Sandi and that she had said “I know Roberta can do this... she just doesn’t know it yet.” I was so flattered and comforted to know I had her support and that someone else believed in me.” Having gotten the prerequisites, Roberta applied and successfully gained a place in the HCA program in January 2014. However, as Roberta explains, the work had only just begun. “I

was terrified at the beginning and intimidated by all the new terminology and the amount of home study. I would go home with tears in my eyes, but my husband would just grab my books and sit me down and say ‘you’ve come this far so there’s no quitting. You get studying and I’ll make you a cup of tea and we’ll take it from there.’ He has been a huge support. As time went by and I began to settle into my course, I would bring home my grades to show my family. My daughter was so proud of me. “Way to go Mom!” she would say and it felt wonderful to share each success with my family. Without their love and support I never could have completed this course, and to them I am truly grateful.” When I asked Roberta what she liked most about the course and if she would recommend it to others, she replied without hesitation. “It’s simple: I’ve found something that I am really passionate about. It’s as if all of my clients are guests in my own home and as such must be treated with the love and respect they deserve. It’s what I have been taught, to respect our elders and to look after people the way we would wish our own parents to be looked after.” “The course has also helped mold me as a person and helped me be a positive role model to my

Submitted photo

Roberta Russell graduated as a certified Health Care Assistant in July and is now living and working full time in Houston. son and daughter. It has changed the way I parent my children and has improved my self-confidence and relationship with my husband. The HCA program has worked for me on so many different levels and if a person were to approach the program with an open mind, I can’t recommend it highly enough.”

Since graduating in July, Roberta has received several job opportunities and is currently working successfully as a certified Health Care Assistant in the Bulkley Valley. Originally from Hazelton, Roberta now lives in Houston with her husband Stephen, 17-year-old daughter Justice and 4-year-son Blaze.

John Rustad, MLA Nechako Lakes

Box 421 183 First Street, Vanderhoof Tel: 250-567-6820 Fax: 250-567-6822

Toll Free: 1-877-964-5650 Email: john.rustad.mla@leg.bc.ca Website: www.johnrustadmla.bc.ca

www.houston-today.com

Houston Today

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Sept. 24-30, 2014

NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED!

Your Pantry Fill Specialists

PR O D U C E

BC Macintosh Apples

Top Choice Chicken Breasts

Whole Frying Chickens

/lb

Starbuck’s French Roast Dark Coffee

G R E AT BA R G A I N S Carnation Simply Sun Rype Apple Juice Plus Deposit, Plus Hot Chocolate

Danone Multipack Yogurts 2 Varieties, 24x100 g

1.9 kg

Hunt’s Tomatoes 2 Varieties, 6x398 ml

Kraft Dinner 12x225 g or Pouches 40 count

Value Priced Soft Margarine 3.18 kg

Eco-Fee, 12x1 litre

1199

Catelli Spaghetti 4.2 kg

Stoned Wheat Thins 1.8 kg

Delissio Deluxe Pizza Twin Pack, 2x885 g

Cashmere Bathroom Tissue

Bounce Fabric Sheets

Cheer Laundry Detergent

40 roll

/lb

Super Jumbo , 1.45 kg

750 g

Stems & Pieces, 12x284 ml

.79

Honey Nut Cheerios

Western Family Garlic Sausage

Western Family Mushrooms

Assorted Squash

999

or Tomato, 12x284 ml

.99

2 Varieties, 12x398 ml

Whole Boneless Pork Loins 6.59 / kg

Campell’s Mushroom Soup

BC Bartlette Pears

Hunt’s Tomato Sauce

/lb

Twin Pack 4.39 / kg

Boneless, Skinless, 4 kg

.89

Whole Bean, 1.13 kg

M E AT

F E ATU R E D

Outdoor Fresh, 260’s

110 uses, 5.02 litre

ea.

Minute Maid Orange Juice 6x295 ml

799 Western Family Olive Oil 2 Varieties, 2 litre

1199

Dad’s Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies 1.8 kg

Western Family Vegetables

Assorted Varieties, 2 kg

397

Palmolive Dish Soap 5 litre

799

Mon. to Thurs. 8 am - 7 pm • Fri. 8 am - 8 pm • Sat. 8 am - 7 pm • Sun. 9 am - 6 pm 3302 Highway 16 Smithers, BC • (250) 847-3313 • 1 (800) 579-3313 • bulkleyvalleywholesale.com