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• IT’S A WRAP
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• ONE FOR GIL
Warriors, Bulls lock horns in memorial hockey classic. Page 11 OPINION Page 6 LETTERS Page 7 SPORTS Page 11
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Port Alice fights to keep RCMP
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January 30, 2014
The Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw First Nations have completed installation of a new emergency warning system, and plan to run the first test of the system either Tuesday or Wednesday, Feb. 4 or 5, local emergency coordinator
Bob Swain said. The system, a response to the evacuation following an earthquake and tsunami alert in October 2012, involves a loudspeaker atop a pole. It was installed by K&K Electric of Port Hardy last week.
• LADY ON A TRAMP
Above: Cassidy Mose, Emma Jensen and Zoe GarlinskiGonsky joined hands to take the plunge at the annual Polar Bear Jump in Port Hardy, Jan. 1. At left, Jane Dutcyvich and Brynn Egeley react to the chilly water of Port McNeill Harbour as they ring in the New Year by participating in the traditional Polar Bear Swim in Port McNeill.
• ‘PLAINS’ GREAT
Folk duo sparkles in Gate House Theatre concert. Page 20 LETTERS Page 7 NORTH ISLAND LIFE Page 11
See page 4 Staff would move to Hardy
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Kelly Jones of Port McNeill can’t contain his TNT bra while performing in the third annual Victor’s Secret Fashion Show at Port McNeill Community Hall Saturday. A sold-out crowd helped raise more than $10,000 in the fundraiser for North Island J.R. Rardon cancer victims. See more on page 11.
year agreement approved by Council last week. In its regular January meeting, Council approved a five-year draft agreement with the Regional District of Mount Waddington,
effective retroactively to Jan. 1, 2014. As part of the agreement, Port McNeill will receive a one-time transfer of 45.2 tonnes of carbon credits for the 2012 calendar year.
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• HOCKEY ROCKS
Minor hockey players enjoy outing to Fort Rupert Curling club. Page 15
RD shares carbon credits
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The carbon credits have been generated through a bio-cover installed by the Regional District at Seven Mile Landfill beginning in 2010 and which has since served to substan-
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• BACK TO SCHOOL
Kwakiutl carver takes up artist in residency at Fort Rupert School. Page 22
tially reduce the emissions of methane, a greenhouse gas. The cover, made up of a composted mix of
See page 4 ‘Port McNeill signs’
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Gazette staff PORT HARDY—The longawaited integrated health clinic promised for Port Hardy moved a step closer to reality last week when Island Health announced a Request for Proposals to construct a new, 4,700-square foot facility adjacent to Port Hardy hospital. Meanwhile, Island Health is
consulting with Port Hardy-area First Nations, community leaders, physicians and other health care providers to review the preliminary design for a new medical clinic to be built adjacent to Port Hardy Hospital. “The new Port Hardy medical clinic will help support the delivery of integrated health care to
residents of the Mount Waddington region and is a much-anticipated addition to the range of services available to the community,” said Health Minister Terry Lake. The building, with a projected cost of $1.6 million, will include 14 patient/clinic rooms and provide space for physicians, nurse practitioners, allied and support
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Guilty plea in dog abuse case Gazette staff Rupert James Wilson, the man accused of the mistreatment of Molly, entered a guilty plea to charges in Port Hardy courtroom Tuesday.
staff and visiting specialists to offer a range of services. “This facility will provide a wellequipped clinic, help us attract and retain high-quality health care providers and reduce pressure on
Kwakiutl ramp up protest
J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT HARDY—The Kwakiutl First Nation successfully used a one-day protest to interrupt a logging operation off Byng Road two weeks ago. But when logging resumed on the disputed territory between Port Hardy and the Kwakiutl village of Tsaxis (Fort Rupert), the band stepped up its action. Last week, the Kwakiutl set up a round-the-clock protest at one entrance to the worksite off Byng Road, demanding a meeting with officials from the province and from Island Timberlands, which has contracted the logging operation on what it sees as private land. The Kwakiutl disagree, saying the land was never ceded and that the band retains title through the Douglas Treaty of 1851. “The people decided on this action, and the chiefs and council supported their request,” band manager Norman Champagne said Monday, as the protest entered its seventh day.
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New Port Hardy clinic taking bids • AQUA CULTURE
The Secret’s out
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49th Year No. 06
The loudspeaker will not broadcast a traditional siren sound; rather, the system is made up of a series of pre-recorded messages, including a test alert, an emergency stand-by notification, an evacuation order and an all-clear.
‘Namgis chief to speak at international conference. Page 3
Gazette staff PORT McNEILL—Port McNeill will earn a share of the carbon credits earned by a greenhouse gas-reduction program at Seven Mile Landfill, thanks to a five-
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• HOT ROCKS
Port Hardy gymnasts prepare for off-Island competitions. Page 15
PHAS
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Local rinks square off in Fort Rupert mixed A final. Page 13
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Tsulquate to test emergency system Gazette staff PORT HARDY—If you live on Tsulquate Reserve or certain parts of Port Hardy, you may be startled by a series of loud warning announcements early next week. Not to worry — it’s just a test.
Gazette staff PORT ALICE—Once again, the Village of Port Alice is facing the loss of its RCMP detachment. And once again, it is objecting to the proposed relocation of its officers to the Port Hardy detachment. Municipal Council has asked Assistant Deputy Minister and Director of Police Services Clayton Pecknold to intervene in a plan to remove RCMP from Port Alice in 2014. “Despite repeated requests to keep our RCMP officers residing in Port Alice, we have been informed that our current officers will be relocated and not replaced,” says Port Alice Mayor Jan Allen. “We have not had adequate response from senior levels of Island District RCMP management and feel that the concerns of our community are not being heard.” Beginning in 2009, the previous mayor made it clear in a letter to Chief Superintendent Randy Wilson, that Port Alice is opposed to removing its RCMP detachment. Similar letters followed in 2011 with support from MLA Clair Trevena, and Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Shirley Bond. Mayor Jan Allen and Councillor Jan MacLeod met with Staff Sgt. Andrew Isles and Port Hardy’s Sgt. Gord Brownridge on Nov. 21, 2013. At this meeting Sgt. Isles informed the mayor that Port Alice’s two police postings and a part-time
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IS
ING Day Pink T-Shirt 26th is awareness L.CA ing ay February AT PINKWAL of anti-bully Wednesd MORE in support LEARN PINK & WEAR JOIN VIIC,
BULLY
Molly, a Shepard-cross, made headlines across the province last year after being rescued from what the BC SPCA described as one of the most horrific animal cruelty cases it had seen.
RCMP officers discovered the then-18 month Molly tied up and emaciated on a residence in Fort Rupert with a chain embedded in her neck. Photos of the animal were quickly shared across social
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49th Year No. 48
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November 27, 2014
See page 2 ‘Date to be fixed’
• STUMPING
• SONG ON MENU
Tenor Ken Lavigne headlines annual NICS dinner show. Page 5
Ae
Bay backs O ymp an
B.C. Conservative leadership candidate visits North Island. Page 3
Lights, camera, action!
Hoop hoop hoo a
Nex
• TASTY TUNES
Concert society hosts talented tenor in its annual dinner show. Page 9
• PLAYOFF REACH
Eagles midgets, bantams move on to Island semifinals. Page 13
Clockwise from left: Whitney Murgatroyd leaps during her solo performance in the Port McNeill Figure Skating Club’s ice carnival, Hooray for Hollywood, at Chilton Regional Arena last weekend; Chelsey Russell circles with a smile during a Level 3 group number; a trio of little stars represent the Walk of Fame. See more in North Island Life, page J.R. Rardon 10.
• MODEL EFFORT
Port Hardy midgets unveil new uniforms in home tournament. Page 11
• ARTS SCHOOL
Members of the Kwakiutl First Nation wave to a passing school bus while blocking a side road in protest of a logging operation off Byng Road Thursday. The round-the-clock protest entered its second week Tuesday. J.R. Rardon
“It’s not a blockade, but it could move to that stage.” Rotating groups of band members have taken shifts at the access road, at a site that includes a fire pit, folding camp chairs and
banners strung between nearby trees. Other banners adorn vehicles that block access to the road. “It takes the citizens of Fort Rupert to stand up and come out,” said Lucille
Brotchie, and elder who was joined by Kodie Wilson, Patrick Johnny and Ernie Price at the site Thursday afternoon. The quartet waved as passing motorists honked
Coal Harbour sensei opens new Aikido d
OPINION Page 6
and returned waves of support, and vowed to maintain their occupation of the
LETTERS Page 7 SPORTS Page 11
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fication of the ministry’s winter road maintenance on the North Island during Port McNeill council’s regular meeting. A letter from the Ministry announcing the second phase of rehabilitation of the Nimpkish River Bridge
deck beginning this spring, was introduced to council Feb. 17. “I think we should send in a letter, Gerry,” coun. Shirley Ackland told Mayor Gerry Furney. “I think that it’s time. I drove up from Victoria today and
the roads were clear. But there’s a section between the Tsitika (River) and just north of Schoen Lake that doesn’t seem to get any attention. There’s no sand, no brine, no anything.” Ackland added a similar situation existed at the “T”
intersection of Highway 19 and Campbell Way leading into Port McNeill. “As soon as you come into the T, you have no con-
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See our Minor Hockey B Section inside and Comeback Campaign, p. 16
• Parting gift
RDMW pays tribute to Gerry Furney’s 46 years in office. Page 4
• StoP & go
Eagles peewees roll to big win, but fall in weekend rematch. Page 13
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J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT McNEILL—Major capital projects involving an integrated health care facility in Port Hardy and a heat-recovery system at the local arena were approved by the Regional District of Mount
• classical gas
Snow business
the festive season but an essential piece of equipment has been placed on back-order by the manufacturer, causing a delay on the project’s completion. Vancouver Island General Manager Ray Lawson said that the equipment was required to complete connections within the Port
The Telus representative plans to visit the North Island early in the new year to address the Regional District and councils. The Regional District’s Pat English, Manager of
route was expected to be completed by the second week in February. The project’s completion should bring an immediate boost for customers able to take advantage of the new system. Lawson said did not yet have a date for the lifting of the stop-sell order currently in place.
McNeill central office. The delay places the project into a blackout window wherein the company cannot make changes to the network. Lawson projected a January 26 date for initial activation, followed by testing and account migration to the new fibre system. He said the move to the new
• on tHe mend
Molly the dog settling in to new home after rescue, treatment. Page 10 opiNioN Page 6 lEttErS Page 7 SportS Page 11
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is critical in sharing information which aids the community of Port Hardy in making an informed decision about who should represent us on council over the next Comprehensive four years.” of your large Given the coverage exceptionally
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Tsunami forum hears plans to update emergency plans. Page 2
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• Tall Tales
Clockwise from left: Ninja turtles Katie Karpoff, Brian Karpoff, Sharon Magee and Rilee Karpoff take a break from pizza to join in the costume crawl in Port Hardy last week. See more Halloween hijinks in North Island Life, back page. A O’Toole
lively and sometimes humorous all-candidates meeting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce at the Community Hall last week. Current councillors Shirley Ackland and Gaby
lEttErS Page 4 SportS Page 8 claSSifiEdS Page 9-11
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standard. Meeting dates from April to June, with the exception of Apr. 22, will shift from the regular Tuesday night to the prior Monday in order to accommodate Parnham’s medical schedule.
Parnham double-checked with councillors, asking, “Will this create any hardships?” The councillors voted
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therapy. “This (change) is to accommodate me,” the mayor said ahead of the vote. “I really appreciate it.” A clarification from staff confirmed no conflict with committee meetings but
Over Christmas, the mayor was struck with necrotising fasciitis, a rapidly progressing infection that resulted in the amputation of her left leg. For the next several months she will require regular trips down-Island for physio-
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Gazette staff PORT HARDY—Mayor Bev Parnham was warmly welcomed back to Council Chambers last week for the regular town council meeting, and a motion passed will ensure that her presence can return to being the
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Georgia Berry, left, colours rocks with fish designs along with other students in the Eco-art day camp held in Port Hardy J.R. Rardon during the recent spring break. See more inside, Page 7.
• In The house
Dominion curling playoffs go down to the wire. Page 8
trying to retain the relaxed, close-knit atmosphere that provides appeal to current residents. The evening began
Alannah Nicols before a nearly full house in the Oct. 29 event. The evening quickly identified Port McNeill as a small town seeking an infusion of business, industry and resources while also
Wickstrom, squaring off for the mayor’s job, were joined on stage by moderator Jon Lok and council hopefuls Jason Clarke, Shelley Downey, Jay Dixon, Aaron Frost, Graham MacDonald and
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NIC workshop produces an evening of poetry, storytelling. Page 6
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McNeill candidates face off
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she received on the night of Sept. 9, 2012. She was found partial-
charged with second degree murder of Cindy Scow who also lived on the Tsulquate First Nations Reserve. The 28-year-old mother of seven died following a severe beating
Maisonville who’s expected to make her ruling May 6 in Campbell River. Justice Maisonville is presiding over the case against 20-year-old Dakota Johnny of Port Hardy. He’s
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J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT McNEILL— Candidates for Port McNeill mayor and councillor position faced the public — and, in some cases, the music — in a
Ente r our baby contest!
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• shake up
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Paul Rudan Campbell River Mirror CAMPBELL RIVER—Second degree murder or manslaughter? That’s the decision left to B.C. Supreme Court Justice Miriam
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Comprehensive coverage of your 2014 municipal election: field in this year’s election, and See more online to minimize redundant answers, the candidates were broken into three panels of five for the question period.
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• AUCTION ACTION
North Island Rotarians host annual Radio Auction. Page 17
Elementary students compete in annual cross country meet. Page 22
See page 4 ‘Surplus will pay’
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Port Hardy hears candidates ’14 More than 150 members of the public came out to hear the candidates lay out their platforms before fielding a variety of questions from the both the audience and the Chamber. Chamber Director Angela Smith welcomed the candidates and the public to the event, saying, “Thank
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• IVORY POWER
shows total revenue of $3,135,000 and expenditures of $2,756,000. The
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Comprehensive coverage of your 2014 municipal election:
Comprehensive coverage of your 2014 municipal election:
Jazz pianist draws crowd in N.I. Concert Society opener. Page 10
we just have a quiet year without a lot of aggressive spending, then no tax increases will be needed.” The proposed budget in Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 649, 2014
Officer Dan Rodin told council in his report during the Mar. 24 special meeting. “If council is happy with that budget, there’s enough money to pay for all expenditures … if
Let us take care of your claim.
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Gazette staff PORT HARDY—Both of Port Hardy’s mayoral candidates and all thirteen prospective councillors had a chance to put their case for election to the public last week as the Chamber of Commerce hosted an all-candidates meeting at the Civic Centre.
line on taxes and expenditures while devoting more than $300,000 toward paying down existing debt. “The budget I designed is basically a status quo budget,” new Chief Financial
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J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT McNEILL— Council gave first and second readings Monday to a 2014 draft budget bylaw that will largely hold the
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49th Year No. 45
‘Status quo’ budget for Port McNeill Have a cracked windsheild?
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Alli Milne looks toward the obstacle course finish line as she emerges from the pole crawl during the annual Kidsfest at J.R. Rardon Mount Cain Ski Area Saturday. See more on page 11 and online at www.northislandgazette.com.
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Small audience wowed by Wolak-Donnelly duo in NICS event. Page 8
‘tis the Season
Telus fibre-optic delivery delayed Gazette staff The North Island will not see the hoped-for boost in internet connectivity in time for Christmas, Telus representatives announced last week. The company had hoped to finalize the move to fibre connectivity for much of the North Island ahead of
School through a cooperative agreement with School District 85. “We want to have the new system in place by July,” RDMW
Hardy, which is scheduled to be built this year on land near Port Hardy Hospital. It also approved a $368,150 heat-recovery system for Chilton Regional Arena in Port McNeill, which will eventually provide heat to nearby North Island Secondary
Waddington Board of Directors as it approved its 2014 budget during its regular meeting Mar. 18. The board acceded to a request by Island Health to contribute 40 per cent — or $790,000 — of the cost of a proposed $1.9 million integrated health care clinic in Port
• Head of class
NIC educator to be presented Award of Excellence. Page 5
Jamie Hunt, accompanied by firefighters Luke Wiggins and Lionel Gunson, gets his first picture with Santa (Kevin Ogren) during last Saturday’s Christmas Kick-off event at Thunderbird Mall in Port Hardy. The event included the Myster-O magic show (also Ogren), the annual mall craft fair, music by the North Island Community Band (including Ogren) and the annual tree lighting in the mall parking lot.
Elena Rardon
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• String Strong
The grass is bluer as Tishomingo String Band comes to call. Page 16
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Hardy and Port McNeill are down to two physicians each, who are faced with juggling their regular clinical hours with a 24-hour oncall schedule at emergency rooms in both communities’ hospitals.
closure, whether in Port Hardy or Port McNeill.” The Mount Waddington region, where Island Health maintains acute care facilities in Alert Bay, Port Hardy and Port McNeill, has been beset with physician and nursing shortages dating back for several years. Mitchell noted Port
Island Health memo. “I can tell you that is not going to happen,” said Alison Mitchell, senior manager of Rural Health Services for Island Health in the Mount Waddington region. “That was discussed, but that’s not the direction we’ve decided to go. There won’t be a permanent (ER)
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port Hardy Er to stay open J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT HARDY—Fears of a long-term closure of the emergency room at Port Hardy Hospital in the New Year are unfounded, Island Health announced this week in response to concerns that arose from comments in an internal
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was found shortly before 9:30 p.m. on Oct. 17. Two off-duty RCMP officers, from the Port Hardy and Port Alice Detachments, came upon the scene of a single vehicle crash, which appeared to have happened a short time earlier. The officers requested assistance from
the Port McNeill RCMP, and immediately went to the crash site to render assistance. The officers located Menzies on the ground a short distance away from his 2003 GMC pickup truck. He was found deceased on site. Preliminary information suggests that the vehicle
49th Year No. 16
J.R. Rardon Gazette editor S O I N T U L A — Threatened with the loss of their banking services by the board of Coastal Community Credit Union,
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Mariah Walkus performs alongside K’ak’ot’lats’i students as the school hosted a Gusgi’mukw 14welcome for visitors last A O’Toole week in coal Harbour.
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SD85, NIC connect election!
J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT McNEILL—With School District 85 Board trustees, staff, and teachers looking on Monday, board chair Leightan Wishart and North Island College administrator Tony Bellavia signed an historic Memorandum of Understanding that will lead to dual-credit courses for North Island secondary school students. “It’s a pleasure to be at this point
tonight,” SD85 Superintendent Scott Benwell announced during the board’s monthly meeting Oct. 20 at North Island Secondary School. “This represents a significant amount of work that’s gone on over a number of years, with significant consultation between North Island College and our schools.” The dual credit course agreement dates back to discussions that began prior to the establishment
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in 2012 of SD85’s Connections program. That program, in partnership with the Regional District of Mount Waddington, provides for student visits to worksites and business across the North Island. Connections led to the creation last year of Field Studies 12, an actual course curriculum in which
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COMMUNITY APPRECIATION DAY Wednesday, October 15th • 1:00pm
49th Year No. 41
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October 9, 2014
furney sits out election J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT McNEILL—Over the past 46 years, a variety of challengers have tried to unseat Gerry Furney from his position in municipal office in a town he literally helped create.
• Pretty in Pink
CIBC raises more than $3,500 in annual Run for the Cure. Page 7
• Fin-Prov
Lieutenant Gavin Texmo feels the heat as the Port Hardy Volunteer Fire Department demonstrates a five-man evolution response to a simulated house fire at its annual open house Saturday. The Port McNeill Fire Department hosts its open house tonight at 6:30. See more in North Island Life, back page.
This year, he’s chosen to step aside voluntarily. “At 81 years of age, I don’t think I’m ready for four more years,” said Furney, referencing the change from three-year terms for municipal elections instituted earlier this year. “I
of
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should have been retired already.” The municipal election season kicked off this week, with the signs of
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Gerry Furney
Playing with fire
Masala Youth Theatre group brings workshop to Sointula. Page 9
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Kwagis cuts ribbon at power plant • Head to Head
NISS, PHSS boys soccer clubs play to 1-1 draw. Page 15
Gazette staff BEAVER COVE—The Kokish River Hydroelectric Facility opened its doors to the public last Tuesday with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. The facility, which was commissioned earlier this year, is owned and managed by Kwagis
Power LP—a partnership between the ‘Namgis First Nation and Brookfield Renewable Power Corp. The ceremony reflected this partnership. It opened with a blessing from hereditary ‘Namgis Chief Bill Cramner, and then featured speeches from Richard Legault, President and CEO of
Brookfield Renewable Energy Partners, and Debra Hanuse, the elected Chief of ‘Namgis First Nation.
See page 3 ‘‘Namgis, Broofield launch’
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• Masked dance
Sea Wolf Adventures hosts a performance at Telegraph Cove. Page 8
debate during Port McNeill’s most recent Town Council meeting. Roger Paquette, owner of Nanaimo-based Hub City Fisheries, wrote council to request the use of a portion of the smallcraft harbour’s drive-on dock to store equipment used to offload the
catch in the DFO test fishery. Councillors Gaby Wickstrom and Shirley Ackland voiced their reservations, about the precedent it could set for other dock users, and about the storage area requested — a 12-foot strip spanning the entire 50-foot width at the seaward end
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Centre in Victoria announced. The man, who is more than 70 years old, was attempting a solo journey from Prince Rupert to Port Hardy in a small rowboat. He was last seen departing
Aristazabal Island, approximately 140 miles north of Port Hardy, on July 11. The man has not checked in with his family, and searchers found no sign of the rower or his vessel in
Jail-n-Bail raises funds for local Tour de Rock rider. Page 7
• safe hands
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Blue Sox outlast Port Alice for slo-pitch tourney title. Page 11
• high notes
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lucia alfred takes the stage to assist the purple pirate during the treasure island-themed Seafest celebrations in alert bay. See more from Seafest in North island life, page 10, and a Musicfest roundup page 16. A O’Toole
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Elizabeth Maundrell waves while pedaling her boat float in the annual filomi days parade in port Hardy Saturday. See more filomi days images in North island life, page 10, and online at www.northislandgazette.com. A O’Toole
Get rid of those foggy window panes. We can replace the glass without replacing the frames!
Gazette staff PORT HARDY—Six more school districts and more than 2,600 support staff workers, including members of Vancouver Island North CUPE Local 401, have recently ratified new collective bargaining agreements, the provincial government announced last week. The agreement covering 199 support staff workers with School District 85 was announced in June, shortly before the end of the school year. The SD85-CUPE 401 agreement was ratified early in July and approved by the B.C. Public School Employers’ Association July 16. “We’re happy,” said Joanne Welch of Port Hardy, unit chair for the SD85 support staff workers. “We ratified it quite fast. Our membership came out in the summer to make sure it was done.” The term of the new agreement for each district is from July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2019. It provides for a 5.5 per cent wage increase over the five years of the term, with potential for additional increases if
See page 4 ‘Grant to cover lost wages’
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cccu slams door on islands J.R. Rardon Gazette editor Coastal Community Credit Union branches in three small island communities closed their doors for the final time last week, rolling trucks
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49th Year No. 28
the four days of searching. “That (search) area’s been saturated heavily,” said Cpt. Ray
CUPE contract ratified
• Celling out
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Search for rower called off Gazette staff PORT HARDY—The search for a missing boater in the waters north of Port Hardy was called off late Tuesday afternoon after four days, the Joint Rescue Coordination
of the dock. “It would be in the way of anyone loading or unloading in that area,” Mayor Gerry Furney
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Hillbillies sweep in championship doubleheader. Page 12
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McNeill approves dock request J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT McNEILL—A contractor facilitating a test fishery for Fisheries and Oceans Canada will be allowed to store equipment on a trial basis on the town’s year-old concrete dock, following a spirited
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rescind the planned branch closures. “The question remains why it was done,” said
See page 4 ‘Investigation’
of money and ATM machines out of branches in Sointula, Alert Bay and Cortes Island. The July 5 closures came even as the Financial Institutions Commission (FICOM) reviews an
appeal brought by Sointula members, whose resolution for a vote of the full membership was rejected in early May by the CCCU Board of Directors. And residents of Alert Bay have
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Teachers vote on full strike J.R. Rardon Gazette editor North Vancouver Island’s public school teachers will walk out Friday in the third round of rotating strikes called by the B.C. Teachers’ Federation. This time, they may not come
See page 4 ‘Alert Bay seeks reply’
Grad KEEpSaKES: pulloutS iNSidE
back. The union held a vote this week to authorize a full strike beginning next Monday, June 16, the latest salvo in an escalating series of moves and counter-moves by government and BCTF leaders. The results of the vote, held
Monday and Tuesday, were not released when the Gazette went to print. For updates, visit www. northislandgazette.com. Should the teachers go on strike, they would do so just as the school year is winding down, final grades are being reported and provincial
P nh m m mo
See page 4 ‘Teachers appeal’
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w
Port Hardy celebrates Oceans Day with Rotary Park event. Page 9
• Happy BirTHday
Dragon boat society hosts clinic for new helms. Page 10
Port McNeill deficit questioned
lEttErS Page 5
J.R. Rardon Gazette editor PORT McNEILL—Residential tax rates are set to tick slightly upward this year, but the Town’s taxpayers seem to be taking the news well. Council hosted a statutory public consultation meeting Monday on
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d
Rodin described it as a “status quo” budget, largely holding the line on spending. In response to a question from Coun. Gaby Wickstrom, Rodin
comments at all.” Asked by Furney whether that suggested the public supported the proposed budget, Rodin admitted, “That would probably be a reasonable assumption to make.” In last month’s rollout of the 2014 budget, part of the Town’s proposed five-year budget bylaw,
its draft 2014 budget bylaw, originally released last month, and sat before an otherwise empty chambers. “I have not received any written responses, nor has anyone seen fit to phone me,” treasurer Dan Rodin informed Mayor Gerry Furney and council. “So, I haven’t heard any
See page 3 ‘Audit slated
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exams scheduled to be written. In a release sent out Sunday, the Ministry of Education released an information bulletin listing the impacts that will result if the strike
Sweet seat Haley Charlie, Xainya George and Shekinah Munn shout to friends as they whip past on the Scrambler during last weekend’s A O’Toole West Coast Amusements visit to Port Hardy.
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2014
already begun seeking other solutions to the loss of their only
Tour de Rock golf tourney raises more than $7,000. Page 10
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Port McNeill Chamber recognizes excellence in business. Page 7
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May 1, 2014
Gazette staff PORT McNEILL— RCMP seized a pair of firearms allegedly stored by youth in a locked storage area at North
Island Secondary School Saturday, but said there is no evidence indicating they were going to be used on school grounds. Officers were led to the
the youth responsible for placing these firearms in the caged area were doing so in an attempt to conceal them from discovery. Following this initial sei-
storage area Apr. 26 following an investigation into reports that a group of local youth were illegally in possession of several firearms. It is believed that
zure, additional firearms were located in a wooded area near Sointula. “Based
See page 5 ‘School searched’
• Medal Mettle
Mayor presented first challenge coin from 101 Squadron. Page 3
• Plan shakeuP
Port McNeill economic plan workshop interrupted by quake. Page 4
Kwakiutl hereditary chief Calvin Hunt spreads eagle down while dancing during a ground-breaking blessing at the site of J.R. Rardon the proposed new health clinic in Port Hardy Friday. See more page 3 and at www.northislandgazette.com.
Lt. Governor visits
• Mud (Bowl) Pie
Soccer tourney title highlights birthday surprise celebration. Page 10 Hot SpotS Page 4 opiNioN Page 6 SportS Page 10 claSSifiEdS Page 12-14
port Hardy councillor Jessie Hemphill shakes hands with the Hon. Judith Guichon, lieutenant Governor of b.c., upon her arrival A O’Toole to the North island last week.
Gazette staff PORT HARDY–The Lieutenant Governor of B.C. got quite the welcome to Port Hardy last Wednesday on her tour of rural coastal communities. The Hon. Judith Guichon was greeted shoreside by dignitaries before being whisked off in a classic car to be treated to dinner and a dessert reception. But the reception proved more exciting than anyone
had bargained for when it was interrupted by an earthquake. “We proved to her that we were movers and shakers,” quipped Mayor Bev Parnham. The mayor recalled that the group had just finished dinner and introductions were being made at the meet-andgreet event when the 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck 40 kms southwest of Port Alice.
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Islanders traveled yesterday to Nanaimo for CCCU’s annual general meeting. There, they presented a resolution calling for a vote of the credit union’s full membership to
icin
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weeks ago the closure of its branches in Alert Bay, Sointula and Cortes Island, effective July 5, claiming they were no longer financially viable. A caravan of North
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three small island communities are seeking assistance from an unlikely but potentially powerful ally — the credit union’s 100,000-plus members. CCCU announced two
John Wort Hannam and band close out NICS season. Page 6
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islanders strike back at cccu
April 17, 2014
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Eagles atoms fall one goal short in see-saw tilt with Nanaimo Page 18
Local youth create original composition in three-day music camp. Page 20
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the cause of this crash, with assistance from the RCMP Traffic Analyst/ Re-constructionist Unit. As is routine in such cases, a mechanical inspection of the vehicle will be conducted as
was traveling southbound on Hwy. 19, when it failed to navigate a turn in the road, entering the ditch on the left side of the roadway, ultimately colliding with a tree. Menzies appears to have been ejected from the vehicle during impact. Port McNeill RCMP continue to investigate
B
Gazette staff A 34-year-old Port McNeill man was killed in a single-vehicle accident on Highway 19 near Woss Friday, the RCMP announced. Tavis Menzies, a former competitive skier who had recently transitioned into the forest industry,
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• All shook up
North Island students take part in Great Shakeout BC. Page 10
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“We were just making introductions, I think it was to a representative of the Senior Society, when someone said ‘earthquake’,” recalled the mayor. “That was the first I felt it.” It seems Hon. Guichon was relatively undaunted by the shake-up, as she jokingly commended the local repre-
See page 2 ‘Library dedicated
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North Islanders mark Canada Day with mix of celebrations. Page 10
St. Columba’s Church opens the door to a Wholeness Centre. Page 10
A Kwakiutl canoe approaches Fort Rupert on its journey from Alert Bay Monday afternoon as part of the Tribal Journey paddle from Washington State to Bella Bella and the Qatuwas Festival, set for July 13-19. See more on page 3. A O’Toole
Kwakiutl applaud Tsilhqot’in ruling •Blades of Glory
Loggers turn timber into sawdust, wood chips in annual show. Page 16
Gazette staff PORT HARDY—Kwakiutl First Nation Chief Coreen Child says the Tsilhqot’in court victory on Thursday, June 26, 2014, proves that Vancouver Island First Nations with Douglas Treaties
eat.
already demonstrated Aboriginal Title over 160 years ago. “We are deeply moved by the resolve of the Tsilhqot’in people,” said Chief Child. “The ruling will have far reaching impacts on First Nations and the Crown govern-
drink.
ments. For Kwakiutl, the Supreme Court of Canada’s declaration reaffirms that the 1851 Douglas Treaty proves Aboriginal title— and that the Government has not lived up to its promises.” Kwakiutl First Nation inter-
vened on the Tsilhqot’in case to address two fundamental issues— the proper test of Aboriginal title
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Hyde Creek Hillbillys take on the Port McNeill Rangers. Page 11
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Left: Savannah Hahn, left, gets a lift from walking partner Kelsey Nelson during the North Island Secondary School commencement ceremony at Chilton Regional Arena Saturday night. Right: Port Hardy Secondary grads Hannah Ankemann and Ezra Tanaka pause for photos on the bridge during Saturday’s walking ceremony. See page 16 pullouts inside and www.northislandgazette.com for more grad coverage. J.R. Rardon, A O’Toole
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Thursday, January 1, 2015
First baby arrives ahead of schedule Gazette staff January 6 saw the birth of the first North Island baby of 2014. Amber Wright had been scheduled to travel to Comox Jan. 7 to prepare for the delivery, but baby Camryn Boguski-Grant had other plans and came into the world at 1:08 p.m. in Port Hardy. Kelly Jones of Port McNeill can’t contain “We went into (Port his TNT bra while performing in the third Hardy) hospital at annual Victor’s Secret Fashion Show at 7:30 a.m. and they were going to ambuPort McNeill Community Hall. J.R. Rardon
lance me to Comox,” Wright said. “But when they checked me right before I was about to leave, I had progressed a lot faster then they expected. They told me there was no time to take me anywhere.” Camryn was born at 37 weeks, weighing five pounds, eight ounces. Thankfully for her and her family, there were no complications and no post-natal trip to Comox was needed.
Clinic Island Health announced a Request for Proposals to construct a new, 4,700-square foot integrated health facility adjacent to Port Hardy hospital. “The clinic supports our goal of providing integrated primary care to Mount Waddington residents,” said Alison Mitchell, Senior Manager for Rural Health Services
Olympic village Cormorant Island threw a party to support Alert Bay-born Olympic slopestyle snowboard hopeful Spencer O’Brien. A crowd in front of the Big House waved Canadian flags and a wide assortment of signs, sang O Canada, and chanted, “Lets’ go, Spencer!” under the watchful gaze of a CBC television camera.
Year in Review January
2014
Protest The Kwakiutl Indian Band held a peaceful protest, January 9, at an Island Timberlands logging operations in Port Hardy. Band members carried signs proclaiming
the area as Kwakiutl traditional territory and gathered at the entrance of the site. Fallers in the area ceased operations and left the site, as the protesters drummed and sang. The demonstration was the start of a larger action by the Kwakiutl, which maintained a roundthe-clock presence for more than 100 days in protest of the “long-
standing disregard by Canada and BC to act honourably to meet their commitments and obligations of the ‘Treaty of 1851’,” the Band explained in a release. Lands and Resources Coordinator Tom Child said that current logging operations were taking place in a culturally sensitive area, including trapline sites and a medicinal plant harvest site.
Guilty plea entered in animal abuse case Gazette staff Rupert James Wilson, the man accused of the mistreatment of a dog in a case that drew province-wide attention in late 2013, entered a guilty plea to charges in Port Hardy courtroom. Molly, a Shepherdcross, made headlines after being rescued from what the BC SPCA described as one of the most horrific animal cruelty cases it had seen.
Year in Review
February
2014
in Mount Waddington. “This approach allows patients to access a range of services in one location and promotes increased collaboration among multi-disciplinary care providers.”
Later, O’Brien struggled with the landing on the first of her jumps in the opening run, and her medal hoped evaporated when she slipped again on the second and final run. The audience at the community hall let out a collective gasp but, after a moment’s pause, regrouped for a hearty round of applause. “We still love you, Spencer,” one woman called.
Whitney Murgatroyd leaps to Lady Gaga’s Paparazzi during the Port McNeill Figure Skating Club’s ice carnival, Hooray for Hollywood. J.R. Rardon
Don’t drink & drive! The Christmas season is now upon us and the Port Hardy RCMP want to stress, if you are planning on drinking, please do not drive. Impaired driving is an entirely preventable cause of death and injuries that has immense costs and devastating effects in our communities. That is why impaired driving enforcement
Stay safe this Holiday Season, call a cab or have an arranged ride home. Don’t Drink and Drive. Island Foods Ltd 1979 Nimpkish Cres, Port McNeill
is a priority for the Port Hardy RCMP. By finding an alternative way home, such as a cab or a designated driver, you can help to ensure that you — and the people sharing the road with you — get to their destination safely. S/Sgt. Gordon Brownridge Port Hardy RCMP
Arrive alive. Don’t Drink and Drive Happy Holidays.
Thursday, January 1, 2015
www.northislandgazette.com 3
Anisalaga Chilkat blanket comes home
Alli Milne looks toward the obstacle course finish line as she emerges from the pole crawl during the annual Kidsfest at Mount Cain Ski Area.
Gazette staff An important cultural artifact made its way home just in time for display in a newly remodelled Potlatch Collection section of the U’Mista Cultural Centre. The Anisalaga Chilkat blanket, originally woven in the late 19th century, was returned from its previous display in Paris and was unveiled Mar. 1 in
J.R. Rardon
Year in Review March
2014 a ceremony dedicating the reopening of the Potlatch Collection, which was damaged in a fire in August of 2012. Molly
Molly, the shepherd-cross who made headlines after being rescued from abuse, joined her new owner after being cleared to leave care. BC SPCA Nanaimo and District Branch Manager Leon Davis said that after a backslide over Christmas Molly had rallied in January and got the all-clear from vets to join her new owner,
who wishes to remain anonymous. SD85 School District 85 announced the hiring of Carol Robertson as its new assistant superintendent of schools, beginning Aug. 1, replacing Katherine McIntosh, who was hired as superintendent of the Coast Mountains School District (SD82).
Credit Union announces branch closures Gazette staff Alert Bay and Sointula residents were dismayed to learn that Coastal Community Credit Union planned to close its branches at the island locations. The changes came following a review by the credit union of its services in all branches and regions, which determined the affected branches are not “financially viable.” “It will be devastat-
ing,” said Tasha Nelson, manager of the Sointula Co-op store that has its business account with the credit union. “And I thought we were cut from the same cloth — the Co-op and credit unions are both owned by their shareholders, and share with their members. We’re not supposed to be a corporate greed situation.” Residents responded by petitioning the credit union to put the clo-
Year in Review April
2014
sures to a vote of its membership, a move which CCCU’s Board declined. Hornsby The Hornsby Mammoth steam crawler found its permanent
home in Coal Harbour. The one-of-a-kind machine was the ancestor of modern tracked vehicles and became the subject of legal wranglings for many years after the tractor was taken to Alberta in 2004 but failed to return. The Coal Harbour Heritage Hall was decided on as the machine’s resting place and a museum is planned around the artifact.
Kuterra Kuterra, the ‘Namgis First Nation-owned land-based fish farm, unveiled its first harvest on Earth Day. ‘Namgis Chief Bill Cranmer joined representatives of Safeway, Sobeys Inc. and Albion Fisheries at Albion’s Richmond headquarters to present the first fish from its closedcontainment farm, located just south of Port McNeill.
Hayley Charlie, Xainya George and Shekinah Munn shout to friends as they whip past during West Coast Amusements’ visit to Port Hardy. A O’Toole
Parnham’s passing stuns the North Island Gazette staff Civic leaders and colleagues were stunned by the sudden death of Mayor Bev Parnham, who had appeared to be recovering from a life-threatening infection five months earlier. Parnham, 62, had been struck by sudden illness at Christmas 2013, resulting in surgery and the amputaFrom left, Dawn Briscoe, Shayna Wigman, Aija Nelson and Estella tion of her left leg. She Collins perform a modern dance number during the annual Stars had appeared to be of Tomorrow recital hosted by Portside Academy of Performing on the mend, attendJ.R. Rardon ing regular physioArts.
Year in Review May
2014 therapy sessions and had returned to attend council meetings since late March. Protest A hundred-strong band of supporters took to the streets in a show of solidarity with
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ing and the sight of eagle down floating in the breeze, ground was broken on a new health-care centre that was three years in the making. The site — close to Port Hardy hospital and Hardy Bay Seniors Centre — was blessed in a ceremony by First Nations leaders, Island Health managers and local civic leaders.
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Thursday, January 1, 2015
Teachers take to picket line as negotiations stall Kirsten Strussi, right, and brother Jorden gallop through Carrot Park in Port Hardy while preparing for a Westernthemed Canada Day
Gazette staff Councillor Debbie Huddlestan took over the reigns as acting mayor, as Port Hardy’s councillors shuffled roles in the wake of Mayor Bev Parnham’s sudden passing in late May. Council passed a motion to adopt a recommendation from the Community Consultative Committee to investigate “the possibility
J.R. Rardon
Year in Review June
2014 of using Mayor Bev Parnham’s namesake (e.g. Parnham Place) with respect to the naming of the new medical centre.” Strike Teachers found
themselves on the picket lines for the start of a full-scale strike that spelled the end of the school year. Negotiations between the BCTF and the government broke down after optimism that a deal could be struck before the end of the summer term. Recycling The curbside recycling program kicked off on the North Island
with a few teething troubles in its opening weeks. Quatsino The oldest building still in use on North Vancouver Island got a new lease on what residents hope are many more years of life. Community members completed replacement of the roof of St. Olaf’s Church, built in 1896 in Quatsino.
CCCU closes its doors on communities
Gazette staff Coastal Community Credit Union branches in three small island communities closed their doors for the final time, rolling trucks of money and ATM machines out of branches in Sointula, Alert Bay and Cortes Island. The July 5 closures came even as the Financial Institutions Commission (FICOM) reviews an appeal
Year in Review July
2014
brought by Sointula members, whose resolution for a vote of the full membership was rejected in early May by the CCCU Board of Directors. Enbridge
During the Tribal Journeys celebrations, the host Heiltsuk Nation announced plans to join seven other First Nations in a legal challenge of the contentious Enbridge Northern Gateway project. “Our people have been clear since this pipeline was proposed,” said Heiltsuk Chief Councillor Marilyn Slett. “We will not allow this to threaten our waters. We stand
Lucia Alfred takes the stage to assist the Purple Pirate during SeaFest celebrations in Alert Bay.
with our relatives up and down the coast in rejecting this frightful project.”
Tour de Rock The North Island learned that local RCMP member, Cst. Tyson Richard, would be in the saddle as part of the team tackling the gruelling 1,000 km cycle from Port Alice to Victoria in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.
A O’Toole
Forest fire burns near Nimpkish Lake
Gazette staff A 60-hectare forest fire burned through the month near Nimpkish Lake. The fire, located approximately three kilometres east of Nimpkish Lake, was first reported July 28. It was visible from Highway 19, and smoke from the blaze periodically rolled through the logging hamlet of Woss. Library Kwakiutl members were joined by Rotary dignitaries and the Lieutenant Governor of B.C., the Hon. Judith Guichon, in opening the new library and literacy centre in Tsakis. Called Nuyum mat’si — a place to tell stories or legends — the new centre boasted nearly 3,500 books available for loan, with plans to add computer stations in the near future. The project was ini-
Year in Review August
2014
tiated by the previous Lieutenant Governor, Steven Point, in May 2012, inspired by the success of similar projects abroad. U’mista The U’mista Cultural Centre unveiled two new guardians standing watch at its front entrance. Two new poles were raised on either side of the entrance as a “way of turning a positive into a negative,” said Sarah Holland, U’mista Executive Director. The work was commissioned in response to two break-ins and a fire that all took place in the last three years. Cougar Calgary native Cade
Henderson had a memorable trip to the North Island, fighting off a cougar that attacked his dog, Indie. On Aug. 5, Henderson was lying awake in his tent on the outskirts of Port McNeill listening to Indie growl outside. Henderson opened the tent flap to see Indie charge something in the tree line and rushed out with a flashlight to see his dog and a cougar locked on to one another. Henderson grabbed an axe and approached the cougar, which he estimated was a healthy w or more. “I smoked him behind the head with the blunt side. It felt like hitting a dense piece of wood. It spun round and took one bound into the woods.” Henderson hurried to Port Hardy Veterinary Hospital where Indie was treated and put on the road to recovery.
Stephanie Rockman, aka “Lady Ra-Ra”, extols the virtues of the local recycling centre while striking a pose in the annual Salmon Days parade J.R. Rardon
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Teachers’ strike delays school start for many Gazette staff The new school year got off to a late start for many North Island students. While Band and private school students returned to the classroom earlier in the month, public school students didn’t start back until Sept. 22 due to the ongoing strike action. The announcement came as members of the BC Teachers’ Federation voted to ratify a tentative contract with the B.C. Public School Employers’ Association, ending a strike that began in mid-June. “School District 85 is pleased that the teachers and the government have reached a tentative agreement,” School District 85 Superintendent Scott
entourage was given a private tour of the nearby U’mista Cultural Centre, followed by a brief meeting with several Indian Residential School survivors. Then, it was on to the Big House, nearly filled with ‘Namgis Band members, other Alert Bay residents and visitors from Port McNeill, Sointula and beyond.
Year in Review
September
2014
Benwell wrote. “We thank everyone for their extraordinary patience during a difficult time for all.” Royal visit The ‘Namgis First Nation put on a welcome ceremony fit for royalty Sept. 15, opening its Big House and putting on a show of singing and dancing for a visit by Prince Edward and Princess Sophie, the Duke and Countess of Wessex, and B.C. Lieutenant Governor Judith Guichon. Edward, the young-
NISS-Arena heat loop installed North Island Secondary School completed work on its unique heating upgrade in September. A pink salmon catches some air between a fisherman and a group The system utilizes “waste” heat recapof recreational paddlers near the Port Hardy sea plane dock. J.R. Rardon tured from ice production at nearby Chilton est son of Queen tour with his family of helicopter on the soc- Regional Arena, which cer pitch adjacent to is then used to warm Elizabeth, made the parts of B.C. After arriving by the Big House, the the school. stop on a four-day
Furney sits out as election begins Gazette staff Election season kicked off on the North Island. Incumbents Jan Allen, of the Village of Port Alice, and Michael Berry, of the Village of Alert Bay, were acclaimed for four-year terms when they were the only candidates to declare in their respective communities. Long-standing Port McNeill mayor Gerry Furney announced that he would not seek reelection. The passing of Port Hardy mayor Bev Parnham earlier in the year meant that Port Hardy would also be voting for a new mayor. Torii Port Hardy celebrated two decades of its twinning relationship with sister city Numata, Japan, unveiling a torii gate at Carrot Park to the visiting Japanese delegation. The gate towers over the entrance to the park, next to the Twinning Garden, and represents the traditional entrance to a Shinto shrine; the transition from the pro-
Year in Review October
2014
fane to the sacred. Neucel Neucel Specialty Cellulose announced a two-month shutdown, citing a depressed market and reliability issues. “It couldn’t have come at a worse time,” said Port Alice councillor Dave Stewart, “especially coming up to Christmas. I know there’s many employees living cheque-to-cheque, they’re going to have a tough time — two months is a long time to wait for a paycheque.” Tai Cheng, Neucel’s Vice President of Community & Government Affairs, explained that the shutdown was necessary to provide maintenance to failing machinery in the plant. “We know it’s a big disappointment... We’re asking our employees to stand by us during this time.”
Firefighter Gavin Texmo feels the heat as the volunteers demonstrate a five-man evolution response to a simulated house fire at the Port Hardy Fire Hall open house.
Kokish The Kokish River Hydroelectric Facility opened its doors to the public with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. The facility, commissioned earlier in the year, is owned and managed by Kwagis Power LP—a partnership between the ‘Namgis First Nation and Brookfield Renewable Power Corp. The hydroelectric facility features four generating units with an installed capacity of 45 megawatts. It can generate enough energy to power more than 10,000 homes annually. Mask stolen An Alert Bay man was happy to have a traditional carved mask back in his possession after a private collector surrendered the item that was stolen four days earlier. The mask was stolen from a shed on Al West’s property Sept. 19 by a perpetrator West described as “a local youth”.
“What we had was a patchwork of heating systems,” said principal Jay Dixon. “You’d go from one room that was hot and the next one would be ice-cold. But the worst part was the lack of circulation. I have to think this is going to help the kids concentrate and learn better. And, after all, that’s what they’re here for.” The new system replaced one of the oldest still operating in a B.C. school, a Rube Goldberg assembly of pieces added as the school expanded over the past 40-plus years. The unique joint system was approved in separate votes of the Regional District of Mount Waddington and School District 85 boards earlier in the year.
A O’Toole
Kelly Tallio
Kelly came to work at Hardy Buoys in late 2013. His daily duties are mostly in the raw fish processing dept. He takes pride in his work and is well respected by his fellow co workers. In the past year Kelly has proven himself to be a quick learner, efficient and dependable member of our team. He has lived on the North Island his whole life, is a strong family man and very proud father of one daughter. Kelly is a team player in and outside of work, playing for The Smokers, the company’s baseball team. Always quick to take part in fundraisers organized on behalf of Hardy Buoys to support Community events. When not at work, Kelly is busy with his schooling and dreams of one day becoming a Paramedic. In January 2015 Kelly will begin training for a Lead Hand position. Hardy Buoys is very pleased to have this AMAZING young man on board
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Thursday, January 1, 2015
COMMENTARY
Comments? Box 458, Port Hardy, B.C. V0N 2P0 250-949-6225 Fax 250-949-7655 or email us at editor@northislandgazette.com
2014 — a year of goodbyes The turning of the calendar to a new year has developed an accompanying tradition of looking back. Best of, worst of, rest of — it has become a season of lists and reminiscence for the 12 months just past. If 2014 on the North Island had a pattern, it would seem to be one of loss. Port Hardy lost not one, but two mayors to untimely deaths. Worst yet, Bev Parnham and Deb Huddelstan were also best of friends, making their passing doubly hard on their respective families and on Cathie Poje, along with Bev and Deb the third member of the selfannointed “Ya-Yas.” In Port McNeill, Gerry Furney keeps on ticking. But for the first time in nearly four decades, the octogenarian will not be doing so as mayor of the town he literally helped found in the late 1950s and early ‘60s. Furney decided four more years was a bit much to extend his run as one of Canada’s longest elected servants, and chose not to run in November’s municipal elections Port Alice will keep its mayor — Jan Allen was returned by acclimation in November — but its millworkers said “so long” to Neucel Specialty Cellulose nearly two months ago as it embarked on an extended shutdown, and wait for a call to return this year. It was the latest hit for Port Alice, which earlier in the year closed down its Rumblefest mountain bike downhill race extravaganza after a 20-year run due to lack of trail workers and volunteers. Even the Gazette was not immune to this trend. Of the six employees who posed for a photo at the 2013 office Christmas party, I was the only one left when Santa clambered back up the chimney this year. And I was scheduled to start work at the Campbell River Mirror to start the New Year, though it looks like I’ll be sticking around through the transition to a new staff. Still, 2014 was not without its nod to the new. The Kokish run-of-river hydro project went on line earlier in the year, the second major renewable energy project to start up on the North Island in a span of six months. And the Kuterra land-based Atlantic salmon farm, the first commercial facility of its kind, saw its first harvest sent to market. This is clearly not a crystal-ball column. We have no idea what 2015 will bring. But we do know the residents who work, play, run businesses and volunteer in our communities will create the memories we look back on in another 12 months. Let’s make them good. J.R. Rardon Editor
2015: year of climate adaptation VICTORIA – It’s time to look beyond the protests and political battles around climate change that dominated 2014, and look at the year and the decade ahead. From the California drought to shifting forest patterns across B.C., there is evidence that our climate is changing more rapidly. Public debate consists mainly of squabbling about the significance of humancaused greenhouse gas emissions, rather than what can be done to prepare. A draft discussion paper from the B.C. forests ministry on wildfire control was released in December after an access to information request. “Climate Change Adaptation and Action Plan For Wildfire Management, 2014-2024” describes the progress made in the province’s community forest fire prevention plan, and its goal to create “wildfire resilient ecosystems and wildfire adapted communities” over the next 10 years.
B.C. Views
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Tom Fletcher
The final discussion paper is to be released early in 2015, but the key research is in. It estimates that by 2017 there will be 788 million cubic metres of dead pine in B.C. forests. Fires in these areas spread 2.6 times faster than in healthy green stands, up to 66 metres per minute. The report calls for fuel management beyond community boundaries to stop “mega-fires” by creating landscape-level fuel breaks, with targeted harvesting,
The North Island Gazette is published Thursdays at Port Hardy, B.C. by Black Press Ltd. Canadian Publications Mail Agreement #391275. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
2014 brought another big response from North Islanders, who raised more than $31,000 for the Gazette Hamper Fund.
Fill in your own blank here, folks. To start the New Year, we’re going to give the ‘thumb’s down’ a one-week rest. Happy New Year.
prescribed burning and new silviculture practices. It notes that bark beetle infestations and bigger, hotter fires are being seen across North America, with costs rising along with urban development. For example, the 2011 Slave Lake fire in northern Alberta generated the second largest insurance charge in Canadian history. The costs of preparing are huge. The costs of not preparing could be catastrophic. Also in 2014, the B.C. government appointed an advisory committee to prepare for the renewal of the Columbia River Treaty with the United States. While this 1964 the treaty has no end date, its flood control mandate expires in 2024. I spoke with Deborah Harford and Jon O’Riordan, members of the Simon Fraser University Adaptation to Climate Change Team (ACT), who, along with ACT senior policy author Robert Sandford, A member of
This North Island Gazette 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 to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org
EDITOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JR Rardon REPORTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aidan O’Toole REPORTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Elena Rardon
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have written a provocative book on the treaty. They hope it will help lead to a renewed agreement that will be a model for a changing world. The treaty, sparked by devastating floods in 1948, led to construction of three dams on the B.C. side and one at Libby, Washington that backed up Kookanusa Lake into B.C. Between that reservoir and the Arrow Lakes, 110,000 hectares of B.C. land was flooded. Those dams hold back spring flood water and provide for irrigation that has allowed Washington to expand its agriculture to a $5 billion-a-year industry. O’Riordan notes that climate shifts create a strategic benefit for B.C. The U.S. has no more dam capacity to exploit, and needs us more than ever, for flood protection and water supply. Tom Fletcher is legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press. tfletcher@ blackpress.ca.
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Port Hardy mourns the loss of Huddlestan Gazette staff Port Hardy lost another leader when deputy mayor Deb Huddlestan passed away just hours after the close of municipal elections that were to usher in her retirement from elected politics. Elections Former mayor Hank Bood was reinstated into the job in the
Year in Review
November
2014
District of Port Hardy, while Shirley Ackland, a two-term councillor in Port McNeill, was selected to succeed the country’s longest cur-
rently-serving mayor in Port McNeill. With just a few exceptions, incumbents and former elected officials making comebacks fared well throughout municipal, school board and regional district elections across the North Island. Evacuation A local woman and
her dog were evacuated from the West Coast when heavy rains led to slides that left her stranded at Raft Cove. Carol Moffatt and a trio of Australian surfers spent the better part of four days from Nov. 6-9 cut off by the series of slides and bridge washouts along logging access roads between Holberg and Raft Cove.
Jack-o’-lanterns cast a spooky glow over the seawall in Port Hardy during the annual Pumpkin Patch Walk.
A O’Toole
Communities give big at Christmas
Abigail McCorquodale, left, and Xandryn Frost, right, flank Mellisa Carnegie during a performance in the Celtic Christmas show in Port McNeill. J.R. Rardon
Gazette staff The Gazette Hamper Fund made its deliveries December 20 to 526 homes across the North Island. The hamper deliveries are made possible through the hard work of an army of tireless volunteers and the endless generosity of North Islanders. This year, the Hamper Fund raised more than $31,000, all of which goes back to
January 1 Annual Polar Bear Jump, noon, Seagate Wharf. Sponsored by Port Hardy Lions Club. Free hot chocolate. January 17-18 Mount Cain Ski Area hosts Women’s Weekend, 8:30 a.m. each day. For more info, visit www.mountcain. com. January 21 Port Hardy Chamber of Commerce hosts its first Business Coffee Break of the new year, 10 a.m. Guest speaker, business topics and croissants. More info, 250949-7622.
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the community. 4 Paws The Hamper Fund wasn’t the only big winner this festive season as 4Paws Rescue Society took in more than $2,000 at a pancake breakfast at the Port Hardy Civic Centre to raise funds and celebrate the work it has accomplished since its establishment as a society early this year.
January 24 Annual Cain Cup ski and snowboard race, Mount Cain Ski Area. Registration begins 8:30, followed by the Race on the Face and slalom events. For info, visit www. mountcain.com.
February 14 North Island Concert Society presents Six Guitars, 7:30 p.m., Port Hardy Civic Centre. One-man show featuring actor/musician/writer Chase Padgett portraying six different guitar players, spanning six different styles. Tickets $25, available in advance at Port Hardy Museum and Cafe Guido in Port Hardy, at The Flower Shoppe in Port McNeill and in Port Alice by calling Gail Neely at 250-284-3927.
January 31 Fourth annual Victor’s Secret Pageant, doors open 6:30 p.m., show starts 7 p.m., Port McNeill Community
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Year in Review
Tsulquate. Part reflection, part celebration and part community healing, the event served as a forum for a stark look back at the Nations’ forced move from their homelands in 1964 and the struggles endured since. But there was also a hugely positive feel to proceedings as the community took stock of its strength and tenacity and looked to the future.
Hall. Featuring Bras for a Cause entries, modelled by North Island Men. Fundraiser to benefit local cancer victims and families. Tickets on sale Jan. 6 at The Flower Shoppe, Timberland Sports and Dalewood Beer & Wine store. Info, Cheryl 250-956-4766 or Victor’s Secret Featuring Bras for Cause Bras on Facebook.
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ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE A PROBLEM WITH ALCOHOL WE CAN HELP Port McNeill-Mon and Fri 8pm Room 3 at the Old School. 375 Shelly Crescent. Call Greg 250-949-0153 or Cody 250-230-4218. Sointula-Thur 7:30pm at the Sointula Medical Centre. 25-2nd St. Call Annie 604-250-7085. DID YOU KNOW? BBB Accredited Businesses must pass a comprehensive screening process. Look for the 2014 BBB Accredited Business Directory E-edition on your Black Press Community Newspaper website at www.blackpress.ca. You can also go to http://vi.bbb.org/directory/ and click on the 2014 BBB Accredited Business Directory
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DEATHS
In Loving Memory of
Serge Vaillancourt Feb 9th, 1948 – Dec 9th, 2014 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Serge, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend after a long courageous battle with ALS. Predeceased by his parents, Henri and Yvonne. Serge is survived by his wife Nicky, sons Matthew and Myles, daughter Ashley and grand-children Joy and Sam, and survived also by his brothers Gilles and Francois and his sister Denyse and their families. Serge was born in Montreal, Quebec and later in life moved to BC where he had a successful career in the logging industry until he retired and moved from Port McNeill to Nanaimo. In his lifetime Serge was full of positive energy, a mischievous sense of humor and a strong desire to THRL H WVZP[P]L KPɈLYLUJL PU WLVWSLÂťZ SP]LZ :LYNL SV]LK YPKPUN OPZ TV[VYJ`JSL NVPUN Ă„ZOPUN HUK spending time with his family. He diligently worked at promoting awareness for both organ donation and ALS and volunteered lot of his time in helping others. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. 0U SPL\ VM Ă…V^LYZ KVUH[PVUZ JHU IL THKL [V [OL (3: Society of BC. Serge is and forever will be greatly missed and loved by so many.
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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES THE DISABILITY Tax Credit. $1,500 yearly tax credit.$15,000 lump sum refund (on avg). covers: Hip/knee replacements, arthritic joints, COPD. For help applying 1844-453-5372.
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Do You Have a Safe and Welcoming Home? Adults with developmental disabilities are in urgent need of safe, welcoming homes. Home Sharing Providers share their home with the adult, on a full or part time basis, and are paid room and board plus a fee for service. Payment for full time care starts at $1500 per month. To learn more call Jane toll-free 1-855-897-7581 or email: welcominghomes@shaw.ca
CONNECTING JOB SEEKERS AND EMPLOYERS
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WE ARE looking for enthusiastic news paper carriers to deliver the Gazette to subscribers in various areas in Port Hardy, Port McNeill and Hide creek. This is great way to gain experience with your first job and to earn a little extra spending money! If interested please call the office at 250-949-6225 and ask for Circulation.
PERSONAL 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
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North Island Church Services
PORT HARDY BAPTIST CHURCH Corner of Trustee & Highland Morning Service 11:00 am Plus regular family activities Office: 250-949-6844 www.porthardybaptistchurch.ca Pastor: Kevin Martineau
11/14
NORTH ISLAND CATHOLIC CHURCHES Father Scott Whittemore 250-9563909 Sunday Masses St. Mary’s 430 Chapel St.,Port McNeill: 9am St. Bonaventure 4750 Byng Rd., Port Hardy: 11am St. Theresa’s corner of Nigei St. and Marine Dr., Port Alice: Saturdays 5:00pm Alert Bay: 65 Hemlock St., 2nd & 4th: Saturdays 10am 11/14
ST. COLUMBA ANGLICAN UNITED Reverend Wade Allen 9190 Granville St. Port Hardy Phone 250-949-6247 1:00 p.m. Sunday School and Service Tues., 1:00 pm Bible Study Everyone welcome Meeting rooms available columbac@uniserve.com 11/14
FULL GOSPEL CHURCH 2540 Catala Place Port McNeill (across from Firehall) Sunday 10:30 am - Morning Worship Church Office 250-956-4741 Pastor Stan Rukin Visitors always welcome www.ptmcfullgospel.org 11/14
CHRIST CHURCH ANGLICAN Alert Bay Sunday Services - 10 am Reverend Lincoln Mckoen 1-250-974-5844 Warden Flora Cook 250-974-5945 Warden Joan Stone 250-974-2234 11/14
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 4680 Byng Rd. Port Hardy Pastor George Hilton 250-949-8925 or 250-949-8826 “Everyone welcome� Saturday Services 9:30am - Bible Study groups 10:45am - Worship/Praise service Wednesday @ 7pm - Prayer meeting Avalon Adventist Jr. Academy Offering Christian Education 250-949-8243 11/14
PORT MCNEILL BAPTIST CHURCH 2501 Mine Road Sunday 9:45 am (Sept-June) - Sunday School 11:00 am - Worship Service 7:00 pm - Evening Fellowship Youth Group Wed - 7:00 pm Children’s Programs & Adult Bible Studies are scheduled throughout the year. For information contact Pastor Dave Purdy • 250-956-4737 11/14
LIGHTHOUSE RESOURCE CENTRE • Chaplain Services • Bible Studies • Spiritual Counselling • Weekly AA Groups (8635 Granville St. Port Hardy) 250-949-8125 11/14
PORT HARDY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP at Providence Place, 7050 Rupert St Sunday Worship 10:30 am & 7 pm Tuesday Prayer 7:30 pm Midweek Biblestudies - Call the church for time and place 250-949-6466 Pastor George & Karen Ewald (home) 250-949-9674 E-Mail: pastorgeorge@providenceplace.ca 11/14
PORT ALICE ANGLICANUNITED FELLOWSHIP Reverend Wade Allen Sunday Services - 4pm 1-250-949-6247 Box 159, Port Alice You are extended a special invitation to share in our Services 11/14
ST. JOHN GUALBERT UNITED ANGLICAN CHURCH 250-956-3533 Email: gualbert@uniserve.com Please call for worship times Reverend Wade Allen All Welcome 175 Cedar Street Port McNeill 11/14
GWA’SALA-’NAKWAXDA’XW SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH at entrance to Tsulquate Village (8898 Park Dr) Saturday/Sabbath 10:00 am-Sabbath School 11:15 am-Worship Service Pastor Randy Elliott 250-230-1885 cell 11/14
Thursday, January 1, 2015 www.northislandgazette.com 9 North Island Gazette Thu, Jan 1, 2015 www.northislandgazette.com A9 PERSONAL SERVICES HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
MERCHANDISE FOR SALE
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GAZETTE NORTH ISLAND
REPORTER
The North Island Gazette is a member of Black Press, Canada’s largest independent print media company with more than 170 community, daily and urban newspapers across Canada and the United States. Send your resume and references to: Dave Hamilton Publisher, North Island Gazette c/o Campbell River Mirror 104 - 250 Dogwood St. Campbell River, B.C. V9W 2X9 Or e-mail: publisher@campbellrivermirror.com
We’re Hiring! 8303 Enterprises Ltd Mo’s Restaurant #8 7070 Market St. Port Hardy, BC V0N2P0 Mo’s Pizza takes pride in our Full-Load, Old Fashioned, Pan Pizza, freshly baked in our baker’s oven! We have Oven Broiled Pizza Subs, Hot Greek Pita Wraps. We serve classic Canadian dishes, fried chicken and wings. We also bake. Position: Cook (2 Vacancies) Type of Employment: Full time – Permanent Anticipated Start Date: ASAP Job Duties: • Prepare and cook full course meals • Prepare and cook individual dishes and foods • Plan menus • Ensure quality of food and determine size of food portions • Work with minimal supervision • Estimate food requirements and costs • Inspect kitchens and food service areas • Train staff in preparation, cooking and handling of food • Order supplies and equipment • Supervise kitchen staff and helpers • Maintain inventory and records of food, supplies and equipment • Work with specialized cook equipment (deep fryer, etc.) • Clean kitchen and work areas & Wash dishes Requirements: Education: Completion of high school Experience: At least 3 years of experience OR if candidate does not have 3 years of experience a cooking post-secondary certificate is required. Salary: $12.00 to $14.00 hourly, 40 hours per week. Position requires flexibility in scheduling; including evening or weekend hours as needed (shifts 9AM-5PM, 3PM-11PM Monday to Saturday) Benefits: Uniforms, discount on food. Apply by e-mail to: mehsenbiah@hotmail.com Apply by in person: #8 7070 Market St. Port Hardy, BC V0N2P0
APARTMENT/CONDO PORT MCNEILL3 Bdrm townhouse. Call 250-9563440. www.portmcneilltown houses.yolasite.com
PORT MCNEILL APARTMENTS Well managed 1 & 2 Bdrm suites Gym & sauna on site Call for availability
Phone Rick 250-956-4555
REAL ESTATE
We are looking for a combination of education and experience in writing, reporting, photography and video skills. Experience with InDesign is also an asset.
We offer a competitive salary and benefit package based on experience. You must also have a valid driver's licence and a dependable vehicle.
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available. 1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/ newspaper? 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.
The North Island Gazette newspaper on northern Vancouver Island, is looking for a reporter to help us produce dynamic and creative content for our print, web and social media platforms.
The journalist must be a self-starter comfortable reporting news, features and some sports. We require a team player who can work in a cooperative environment and adheres to the highest journalistic standards.
RENTALS
TWO OCEANS IN COAL HARBOUR
FOR SALE BY OWNER
Large fully furnished 2 bdrm Apartment includes stove, fridge, washer, dryer & micro. Clean, comfy, quiet & upgraded. Rural setting overlooking harbour. Satellite TV channels included ($90 value). Available Now. $650+ hydro with a 1 year lease. Pets considered. Call 1-250-949-8855. www.twoceans.com
HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES HOME IMPROVEMENTS 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
MERCHANDISE FOR SALE
WHOLE DUPLEX for sale1280sq ft per side, 3.5 bdrms, 1.5 bath. 9498 McDougall Rd, Port Hardy, BC. $225,000. Call (250)334-8474. tinyurl.com/porthduplex
RENTALS FIREARMS FIREARMS: ALL types wanted, estates, collections, single items, military. We handle all paperwork and transportation. Licensed dealer 1-866-9600045. www.dollars4guns.com.
APARTMENT/CONDO PORT HARDY- well behaved pets welcome, 2 -3 bdrm trailer + large shed, located near Airport, on large treed lot. $650. Call 250-949-7189.
MOBILE HOMES & PADS PORT MCNEILL Mobile Home Park Pads for rent. Short walk to shopping, school & ocean. $300/ month Call 250-758-4454
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Do you think this is responsible pet care?
A DogĘźs Life?
Smile
of the week. We donĘźt.
Former Gazette staffer Lisa Harrison rejoined the gang to help with delivery of the Gazette Get a dog for the right reasons – Christmas hampers.
to be part of the family! HeĘźll love you for it. Guaranteed!
walks play friends
Itʟs no way to treat a dog. Get a dog for the right reasons – to be part of the family! Heʟll love you for it.
Get a dog for the right reasons – to be part of the family! www.spca.bc.ca
J.R. Rardon
www.spca.bc.ca
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www.spca.bc.ca
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walks play friends
Get Itʟs no way to treat a dog. Get a dog for the right reasons – to be part of the family! Heʟll love you for it. www.spca.bc.ca
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10 www.northislandgazette.com Thursday, January 1, 2015
sports
&
recreation
Submit results to 250-949-6225 Fax 250-949-7655 or email us at sports@northislandgazette.com • Deadline 10 am Monday
on deck
Tell us about items of interest to the sports community. January 9-11 Minor hockey Port McNeill Minor Hockey Atom tournament, Chilton Regional Arena. Game times tba; raffle table, 50/50 draws, concession, more. Port Hardy Minor Hockey Peewee tournament, Don Cruickshank Memorial Arena. Game times tba; raffle table, 50/50 draws, concession, more.
From left to right: Load 'Em Up shortstop Jim Clair makes a diving catch at the Storey's Beach diamonds during Slo-pitch season. Port McNeill goalie Brett Daffurn stays focussed on the puck in a tournament game. Crystal Tapp of Sunset School competes in the blindfolded shot put during the Districtwide track and field meet in June.
January 10 Rep hockey North Island Eagles atom development hosts Nanaimo, 1:45 p.m., Port Alice. January 16-18 Minor hockey Port McNeill Minor Hockey Novice Jamboree, Chilton Regional Arena. Game times tba; raffle table, 50/50 draws, concession, more. January 17 Rep hockey North Island Eagles bantams host Cowichan Valley, 2 p.m., Port Hardy; Eagles peewees hosts Juan de Fuca in league play, 4:15 p.m., Port Hardy; Eagles atom development hosts Victoria, 5 p.m., Port McNeill. January 18 Rep hockey North Island Eagles atom development hosts Victoria, 9:30 a.m., Port McNeill. January 23-25 Curling Fort Rupert Curling Club ladies open bonspiel. Draw times to be announced; concession, lounge open throughout weekend. For info or to register, email porthardycurling@gmail.com. Jan. 30-Feb. 1 Minor hockey Port Hardy Minor Hockey Bantam tournament, Don Cruickshank Memorial Arena. Raffle table, 50/50 draws, more.
A O'Toole, J.R. Rardon
Locals stepped to podium in 2014 Gazette staff The 2014 athletic year was as highlightfilled as ever as North Islanders took to the ice, the pitch, the diamond and any other venue where two or more competitors could go head-to-head for glory and prizes. Here are a few of the moments captured by the Gazette staff over the past year: January The Warriors extended their unbeaten streak in the annual Gilbert Walkus Memorial Hockey Classic, posting a 4-0 win over the crosstown rival Bulls in Port Hardy. It was the fourth game in the series in remembrance of fallen Warrior Gil Walkus, Jr., and the fourth straight win by the Warriors. ... In Port McNeill, the habit-clad rink of Jennie-Lynn Noel captured the A final in the annual Ladies Open bonspiel at Broughton Curling Club. Noel's nuns included Tricia Ewen, Jennifer Holland and Heather Jack.
February A new Aikido dojo opened in Port Hardy under the tutelage of sensei Andrew Hory of Coal Harbour. ... The North Island Eagles atom development team claimed the Vancouver Island Division 4 hockey championship banner by rolling to the top spot in the league. The Eagles bantam and midget squads advanced through the first round of the playoffs and into the Vancouver Island semifinals before bowing out of Tier 3 postseason play. ... March The North Island Eagles atom development team followed up its league championship by winning the Division 4 playoff tournament in Port Hardy. The atoms topped Campbell River 7-4 in the final. ... Two late goals gave the Warriors a 5-4 comeback win over the hometown Port Alice Islanders in the A1 final of the annual Oscar Hickes Memorial Hockey
tournament at Doug Bondue Arena. The A2 final went to the Rusty Trombones; the B final to the Horses; the C final to Muff 'n Men; and the old-timers title went to the Port McNeill Pioneers. ... The local rink of Keith Balcke, Nick Russell, Don Riehl and Matt Tjepkema claimed second place as Broughton Curling Club hosted the North Island Zone Club Championships in Port McNeill. ... Adrian Heemels won gold and Cassidy Mose claimed silver to lead the North Island's Funtastic Gymnastics and Trampoline Club in the B.C. provincial trampoline championships in Abbotsford. April Atom goalie Kayden Jones, peewee forward Clayton Bono, bantam forward Tanner Roberts and midget winger Tyson Cadwallader were selected MVPs for their respective teams in the North Island Eagles' annual postseason awards. ... Bantam netminder James
Bramham was selected Player of the Year and coach Dennis Foster Coach of the Year at the Port McNeill Minor Hockey awards night. ... Darryl Coon Jr. of Port Hardy was tabbed for a spot on Team BC at the annual National Aboriginal Hockey Championships in Quebec. ... Logan McLachlan and Owain Jewell were the big winners in Port Hardy Minor Hockey's annual awards dinner. McLachlan won the Hugh Fraser Memorial Award as the top official, while Jewell claimed the Robbie Burns Awards for Most Dedicated Mentor. May Load 'em Up of Port Hardy kicked off the slo-pitch tournament season by topping the Bush Cats for the A title in the Umpires Icebreaker tournament in Port Hardy. Load 'em Up added a second win in the Hawaii Fundraiser tournament later in the month. ... Port McNeill rider Jason Abernethy claimed two class
titles in Vancouver Island Motocross Series racing at TriPort Motocross Track, which featured a free admission promotion that boosted crowds both days. ... The North Island Secondary School senior girls soccer team placed second in the Island A finals to earn a fifth straight berth in the Provincial High School championships. ... Rory Bondue rolled to the low-gross title in the annual Port Alice Golf & Country Club Spring Open. Fletcher Crook claimed the low-net win. June The men's and women's trophies stayed right at home at the conclusion of the annual June Sports Soccer Tournament in Alert Bay. The Alert Bay Cormorants won the men's title in a shootout, after the Thunderettes rolled to a 5-1 victory in the women's final. ... Another tournament, another win for Load 'em Up, which earned the Father's Day Slo-pitch
title in Port Hardy. ... Port McNeill's Willie Mitchell won his second Stanley Cup in three years with the Los Angeles Kings. After hosting a massive party with the Cup in Port McNeill in 2012, this time he chose to have a more private affair with family. ... the Port McNeill team of Scott Mitchell, Jon Lok, Ron Downey, Paul Bastarache and Tim Chester posted the low score in the annual Loggers' Golf Tournament at Seven Hills. ... Joe Murgatroyd of Port McNeill placed 21st in the annual Kusam Klimb on Mount H'kusam in Sayward. July Hundreds turned out at the Port McNeill waterfront for the annual Logger Sports competition, where Dave MacLeod of Campbell River and Anita Jezowski of Nanaimo won the men's and women's points titles, respectively. ...
See next page ‘Hole-in-one'
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Sports & Recreation
www.northislandgazette.com 11
Clockwise from left: Georgia Walkus volleys towards goal during the International Futbol Scouting Academy training session at Gwa'sala'Nakwaxda'xw School; Shaun Zealand blasts from a bunker during the Seven Hills Men's Open; Dan Nikirk flings aside a pair of mud-splattered goggles at Tri-Port Motocross Track; and Darryl Coon rifles a shot during a midget game against Nanaimo. A O'Toole, J.R. Rardon
Hole-in-one highlights tourney from page 10 Gerry Johnson carded a hole-in-one while Rory Bondue took the top spot in the annual Men's Open Golf Tournament at Port Alice Golf & Country Club. ... Chris Sharpe of Port McNeill won the Super-Pro event and nearly doubled in the Pro class before placing second in the Rumble on the Runway drag races in Port McNeill. ... Port Hardy's Blue Sox won the Wood Bat Slo-pitch title over Port Alice at Beaver Harbour Park. Load 'em Up, meanwhile, won another tournament — this time in Woss. August The Woodchuckers rallied past Hi Vis for the Port McNeill Slopitch playoff title. ... Port Hardy's Master Batters outdueled
The Woodchuckers to win the Oscar Daze slo-pitch tourney in Sayward, but the Woodchuckers bounced back to win the annual OrcaFest Slo-pitch tourney title. ... Glen Day and Natan Bonn split wins in the main events, while Jim Swift was the overall point winner in the two-day Dirt Bowl stock car racing event at Tri-Port Speedway. September Load 'em Up strikes again, winning the Fred Donaldson Memorial Labour Day tournament in Port Alice. ... Five members of the Tri-Port Dragon Boat Society — Irene Paterson, Adele Schoeman and Sherri Woodside of Port Hardy and Sandra Logan and Joy Zwicker of Port McNeill, competed in the World Dragon Boat Championships in Italy
and combined to bring home two medals ... Club pro Kevin Black was the overall winner while Shaun Zealand claimed the amateur low-gross crown in the Seven Hills Golf & Country Club Men's Open. Rob Martyn of Port Hardy nailed down the low-net trophy. ... Port Hardy's Fast Balls downed Woss in the men's fastpitch portion of the Indian Summer Classic softball tournament, while the Quatsino T-birds topped Combo B for the ladies' slo-pitch crown. October Glen Day of Port Hardy retained his track title at Tri-Port Speedway, wrapping up the stock car racing season with a 672-point total to outdistance challenger Jim Swift. ... the North Island Eagles
midget hockey team capped a perfect 5-0 round of tiering play and pushed its record to 7-0 to start the season before taking its first loss in a road trip to Powell River. ... the Juiceheads won the women's division of the annual Wild Women's Hockey Tournament in Port Hardy. The Warriors downed Port Alice for the men's A title, Mainline topped the Whalers for the B title, and Port McNeill's Ice Devils beat Port Hardy's WWI in the old-timers final. November Mike McCulley's mixed rink of Laina Hunko, Ryan Surgis and Roselyn Jennison scored a rare 8-ender in league play at Fort Rupert Curling Club. ... Highland dancers Abigail McCorquodale of Port Hardy and
Port Hardy Youth Soccer AGM Monday, January 12, 2015 7pm at Eagle View Elem School For any questions prior to this meeting feel free to go to our Port Hardy Youth Soccer Facebook page.
Xandryn Frost of Port McNeill both won age-group titles in the Vancouver Island Premiership in Duncan. ... Port Hardy's Brad Zealand won the Fort Rupert Curling Club mixed open bonspiel with Lori Walker, D'Arcy Deacon and sister Heidi Zealand. ... the North Island Eagles atom development team went 5-0 and won the Comox Valley Remembrance Day hockey tourney. December The Eagles midgets and alumni met in their annual Gazette Hamper Fund benefit game, with the alumni extending their streak with an 11-5 win. ... Brad Zealand won the Broughton Curling Club men's open with Joe Godmaire, Jordan Campbell and Norm Campbell.
ATHLETE of the Year PORT MCNEILL MINOR HOCKEY
With incentive from Willie Mitchell, the players and volunteers raised $21,000, then donated $2,000 of it to the Gazette Hamper Fund. J.R. Rardon
THE YOUTH NEED YOU! Some executive members from 2014 will be stepping down and in order to even have a 2015 soccer season we really need more volunteers to come forward. Please attend this meeting to find all about the upcoming season, what positions need to be filled and how you can be involved!
STAY TUNED for a new coaches registration in February, player
registration in March and an exciting contest to name our annual tournament!
Thursday, January 1, 2015
12 www.northislandgazette.com
North Island Life How we saw you in ‘14 Gazette staff Throughout 2014 North Islanders engaged in a wide range of educational, cultural, social, athletic and entertainment events. From curling bonspiels,
Clockwise from above: Port Hardy Secondary teacher Robert Fyles ignites a hydrogen-filled balloon during the “Science Magic” show held during the regional science fair; Art Brochu (fifth from left) is surrounded by well-wishers as he prepares to set off on a cross-country cycling trip in support of Children’s Wish; Cody Walkus looks on as a dancer portraying the Gwa’sala whale Gwa’yam conveys the ancestor Yakatlanlis during the Gwa’sala’Nakwaxda’xw Yayuma; young students cheer during a basketball game at Fort Rupert Elementary; Troy Lambert of Bowser, B.C., leaps to throw a chain during the choker race in the Logger Sports competition; Alex Alfred dances as the Spruce during Fort Rupert Elementary students’ performance of the Atlakima. J.R. Rardon, A O’Toole
hockey and ball tournaments and logger sports, to yayumas and potlatches, to dance and music recitals, to the summer festival season, residents took part in or simply enjoyed the
spectacle of life on North Vancouver Island. Here are just a few of our favourite photos from the past year, along with our wishes for another funfilled schedule in 2015.