COMMUNITY: Houston Forest Products Feature
SPORTS: Rugby Teams
PAGES 5-6-7
PAGE 13
Publications Mail Registration #0040028607
WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2015
Proudly serving Houston and District - Home of Canada’s Largest Fly Rod
www.houston-today.com
NO. 20 $1.30 Inc. GST
Lake Babine signs LNG deal By Alicia Bridges Black Press
BARREL Race
Jackie Lieuwen/Houston Today
Candie Moore circles a barrel at the May Days Rodeo last weekend. Now a resident of Alberta, Moore came back to Houston for the rodeo and summer. Four Seasons parked was packed all weekend with competitors from Terrace to Prince George. See page 10 for more on May Days Rodeo.
“
The Lake Babine Nation has signed an agreement with the B.C. Government to receive economic benefits from TransCanada’s proposed Prince Rupert Gas Transmission pipeline project. If the project goes ahead the First Nation will receive payments totalling about $3.56 million, including $324,000 when the agreement takes effect. The rest would be provided in stages, with $1.62 million when construction began and $1.62 million when the pipeline started operating. The Lake Babine Nation, which is about 142 miles west of Prince George, would also be entitled to a share of $10 million annually for First Nations along the pipeline route. Agreements have already been signed
“
“A share of $10 million annually for First Nations along the pipeline route.”
with First Nations leaders in Gitanyow, Kitselas and Nisga’a. Chief Wilf Adam said the project met the Lake Babine Nation’s conditions for consent. “It can be built in a way that is safe for our territory and resources; it has been developed and will be built with our meaningful involvement; and it will bring significant economic benefits to our people,” said Adam. See LNG on Page 2
Closing doctor clinic will strain emergency department By Alicia Bridges Black Press
The only walkin medical clinic in Smithers will stop taking drop-in patients on July 1, and the doctor expects an influx of patients at the local hospital emergency room after the change.
The Bulkley Valley Outpatient Walk-In Clinic announced last week it would stop taking walk-in clients when it transitions to a family practice on July 1. Owner and general practitioner Wouter Morkel said he has been seeing between 40 to 50 people a day
www.glaciertoyota.ca TODAY TOMORROW TOYOTA
Smithers, BC 1.866.844.6723
*please add $345 Documentation
“Waiting lists for family doctors are long.”
at his Main Street medical centre. He says he is changing the practice because he needs to reduce his workload
fee and applicable taxes DL#8879
2009 Prius G4623A
NOW ONLY
*$15,998
due to changes in his family dynamic. “I have a little baby,” Dr. Morkel said. “I’ve been running
2014 Corolla G4451
NOW * ONLY
$14,998
the clinic by myself for a year and I’m just seeing too many patients … I have to limit the amount of patients that I see on a daily basis so the only way to do that is to only see my patients.” Morkel says cutting back to between 30 and 35 appointments per day would also
enable him to provide a better level of care for his clients. He said the change will put pressure on the local hospital emergency room but he believes it will cope. “I think it is going to put some strain on our emergency department but the hospital is aware of
2009 Ford Escape Xlt G8878
2010 Chev Silverado 2500 G8913
NOW * ONLY
$13,998
NOW * ONLY
$26,998
the changes so they are expecting a little bit of an influx,” he said. “I think the emergency department should be able to cope.” Morkel’s clinic is the only place in Smithers that takes patients without appointments. See DOC on Page 3
2011 Ford F150 Eco-Boost G8909
NOW * ONLY
$28,998
2
www.houston-today.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Pleasant Valley Plaza
✁
THEATRE 2350 Butler Avenue, Houston
May 19, 20 & 21
Tues, Wed & Thurs: 7:00pm
McFARLAND
Email: office@pvplaza.ca
Phone:
250-845-2298
Adults: 8 • Seniors: 7 12 & under: $6 $
$
Check out our Facebook page for more info: www.facebook.com/pleasantvalley.plaza
Coming May 29:
May 22-28: Friday, Saturday & Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: 7:00pm
MAD MAX: FURY ROAD
DRAMA & SPORT
ACTION, ADVENTURE & THRILLER
129 MINUTES
121 MINUTES
RATED G
RATED 14A
NEWS
FREE BOWLING!
SUMMER HOURS!
We are now open 6-10pm Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Monday. We will be available for Private Bowling and Theatre bookings from 10am-6pm Daily.
... an hour before the Movie when you buy a MOVIE PASS! We still have openings on our
Bowling Parties! We offer many different options please call for details 250-845-2298.
REEL DEAL TUESDAYS! ALL SEATS: $6
Houston Today
Bowling Leagues! No experience necessary -
Call for more info 250-845-2298.
SWEETS ‘n’ Treats
Transforming opportunity
Sam, Bodhi, Max, Ella and Isaac enjoy the first cones from Houston’s new Moose Hut. Run by the Tea Gallery, the Moose Hut sells Island Farms ice cream and other treats 3 to 9 p.m. on school days, and 12 to 9 p.m. on weekends.
LNG from Page 1 A b o r i g i n a l Relations and Reconciliation Minister John Rustad said First Nations support for LNG was increasing because of the “transformational opportunity” it represented for communities. “In addition to financial benefits agreements, we’re working with nations throughout the north on related opportunities,” he said. “This includes working with nations on environmental
Jackie Lieuwen/ Houston Today
stewardship projects and a new Aboriginal skills training fund.” Another LNG project, Pacific Northwest LNG, last week suffered a blow when the Lax Kw’alaams Band rejected its $1-billion benefits deal for the third time. The band voted unanimously against the pipeline project, citing concerns over the location of the proposed export terminal at Lelu Island and potential impacts on nearby salmon habitat.
LNG BENEFITS FOR ALL OF B.C. A SPECIAL SERIES ON LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS
RESTAURANTS CAR DEALERSHIPS
Every dollar the LNG industry spends in B.C. will ripple through the economy.
CANADIAN RETAILERS LOCAL BUSINESSES HOME RENOVATORS
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE PROVIDERS
Whether its construction jobs and wages in the north, or professional services in the south – LNG will support thousands of jobs. The ripple effect of a successful LNG industry will benefit all British Columbians. The BC LNG Alliance is the voice of British Columbia’s new LNG export industry. Our mission is to foster the growth of a safe, environmentally responsible and globally competitive LNG industry in British Columbia and Canada.
Connect with us: bclnga.ca
I 778.370.1392 I
@bclnga
I
in BC LNG Alliance
Houston Today
NEWS
www.houston-today.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
3
CALDERWOOD REALTY NEW G! N I L STI
$89,500
MLS# N244996
3406 13th Street
Very affordable completely reno’d 2 bedroom home downtown next door to arena, pool & elementary school! Walking distance to shopping, rec-centre & all amenities. Nice fenced yard w/ shed, shrubs, back lane access. Recent updates include vinyl siding, vinyl windows, exterior doors, soffits/fascia/eaves. Step inside to a completely updated kitchen, large 4 pc updated bath, 2 large bdrms, updated flooring throughout, cozy LR , large eating area. Updated plumbing, electrical, interior doors, closets, fixtures & paint etc. Appliances included.
$174,900
! PRICE NEW
MLS# N243909
2865 Elliott Crescent
SURGING Creek
Jackie Lieuwen/Houston Today
Men from Lakes District Maintenance (LDM) and the Ministry of Environment assess the rising creek waters by Summit Lake Road between Houston and Topley. The crew cleared out the creek to avoid flooding over Highway 16.
Very well kept ‘93 one-owner home in Ruiter Heights on Spectacular view lot! Gorgeous view of mountains from kitchen & sundeck. Fenced backyard, 17’x10’ sundeck, large carport, paved drive, maple & birch trees, great curb appeal! Bright LR w/ bay window, spacious kitchen w/ lots of cabinets, pantry, & counter space, open dining area w/ patio doors to sundeck. 2 bdrms up, large 4 pc bthrm on main. Beautiful bsmt reno in 2014 featuring nice rec room area w/ dark vinyl plank flooring, renovated full bath, 2 more bdrms (1 unfin), separate laundry room, & convenient bsmt entrance from carport. 2x6 construction, vinyl windows, concrete foundation. Appliances & drapes included.
Smithers clinic stopped keeping waiting list DOC from Page 1 Central Square Medical Clinic and the Broadway Clinic will take same-day appointments for emergencies, however waiting lists for family doctors are long. Central Square has stopped keeping a waiting list and is encouraging clients to call back month-bymonth to see if any places have opened up. Morkel said Smithers was more fortunate than other communities in the area because a lot of its residents already had family doctors. However, he said Houston was facing a severe doctor shortage. “Soon they will only have one doctor there really servicing 5,000 people but that also puts a strain on our emergency department [in Smithers],” he said. Northern Health spokesperson Jonathon Dyck said in a statement the
authority would continue to monitor its emergency department usage as normal. “It wouldn’t be fair to speculate on the changes this may have on other health care services as there are other primary care supports available, and they are changing the model of service delivery going to an appointment based system,” he said. He says Northern Health worked in consultation with physicians to provide advice on services that may benefit the community but the decision was ultimately theirs. Dyck said people who are unsure whether their situation requires treatment at the emergency department could call HealthLink B.C. at 8-1-1 or visit healthlinkbc.ca. “This does present a good opportunity to remind residents that the emergency
department is for urgent or sudden changes in health status. People using the
emergency department appropriately will help our staff and physicians focus on the
patients with urgent needs and ensure there is appropriate space,” he said.
Greenhouse Specials
If you are buying or selling, call me today! I also offer Free Home Market Evaluations and information on the current real estate market.
Dan Hansma 250-845-8234 dan.hansma@gmail.com
21
M
,2
10” Hanging Baskets
$13.99 (lime green and purple) Flat of Pansies Flowers
ay
2,
&2 3
3 Days Only
$16.80 (48 plants!)
Mushroom Manure
9kg $2.49 reg $3.29
50%off
Cameo Plastic Pots!
BV HOME CENTRE TELKWA - 250.846.5111 • HOUSTON - 250.842.7606
Please join RBC Royal Bank in supporting BC Children’s Hospital on
Friday, May 22nd, 2015 from 11am - 4pm when they host their annual...
BC Children’s Hospital BBQ There will be hamburgers, hotdogs, pop and dessert. All proceeds go to the
BC Children’s Hospital
4
Opinion
www.houston-today.com
Published by Black Press Ltd. 3232 Hwy 16 W, Upstairs Houston Mall P.O. Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Houston Today
Phone: 250 845-2890 • Fax 250 845-7893 News: editor@houston-today.com or: newsroom@houston-today.com Advertising: advertising@houston-today.com
In our opinion:
Early start to forest fire season
T
he forest fire season has come early this year and for those heading to the Interior this long weekend, caution must be exercised. The Kamloops Fire Centre has declared an open fire prohibition beginning Friday, the unofficial start to the summer season and the Victoria Day long weekend. Hot, dry weather has dominated the region for weeks and the forecast is for more of the same so it only makes sense to exercise extreme caution in the woods this weekend, even though it’s only midMay. The prohibition covers all B.C. Parks and Crown lands but does not ban campfires of a reasonable size, so please use common sense and practise fire safety procedures at all times. It is a weekend to be enjoyed and celebrated but it must be done responsibly and within the rules that keep all of us, and our forests and wildlife, safe. And the province takes its bans seriously as anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition can be issued a $345 ticket or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention contributes to a wildfire, the person can face a further $10,000 penalty and a bill for all firefighting and associated costs. - Black Press
Have an Opinion? Write to the Editor!
Letters should be brief and to the point, with a maximum of 300 words. We reserve the right to withhold from print any letters which may be libelous, racist or sexist, and may edit for brevity and clarity. Letters MUST include the signature of the letter writer, a mailing address and a phone number. Only the name will be reproduced in the newspaper. Send letters to: Houston Today, Box 899, Houston, BC, V0J 1Z0. Fax to 250-845-7893 or email to newsroom@houston-today.com
For the love of the game I met my husband 20 years ago through a mutual friend who played on his baseball team. “Tell him Shippy says hi,” Ken James said after suggesting I look up his teammate at my new place of employment. “Maybe he’ll introduce you to some people.” I thought that was a good idea and after a few days on the job I emailed Paul Welbourne, also known as “Nuke” to Ken and the rest of their team. Even though he worked in a different building than I did, we arranged to meet for coffee at the end of the day. At the time Paul was a pitcher in a competitive men’s league with the Vancouver Pharaohs. He also played softball with a group of work pals I met after our coffee. We became fast friends and I
soon learned how passionate his family was for the sport. His nieces and nephews played in T-Ball and little league, his sisters played when they were younger, and his father played for many years - and by the time I met him he was a provincial commissioner of Babe Ruth Baseball. Since then Gord Welbourne has been honoured by the Coquitlam Sports Hall of Fame and the Babe Ruth Hall of Fame for his 45 years of service for the North American association. Even Grandpa Charlie was a ball player and heavily involved in growing the sport in Burnaby before and after World War II. But now the only one in the Welbourne clan who plays ball regularly is our 11-year-old daughter, Daisy. Without any coaxing from us, she felt it was her
destiny and joined the Westside Outlaws in the Westside Minor Fastball Association three years ago. Initially she wasn’t always focused and it wouldn’t be unusual to see her doing cartwheels or the splits in the outfield. But in the last year she’s suddenly become more serious about the sport, and keen on getting better. As a result of her improvements, as well as those of all her teammates, the games have become more interesting to watch. The most exciting one I’ve witnessed personally happened at a recent tournament in Summerland when her team was down 12 runs in the last inning of the finals. We didn’t think there was much of a chance they’d win a medal at that point, but after Daisy’s friend, Sammi, shut down their opponents with her superb
pitching, and the entire team came together to make an incredible comeback with a bunch of runs, they unexpectedly had a chance to win. It was one of those nail-biting experiences I’ll never forget. With two outs, and the bases loaded it was Daisy’s turn up at bat. Standing on the sidelines I felt increasingly stressed as each pitch was thrown. It felt like slow motion to me as I tried to telepathically send her a message to relax, have fun and go for it. Finally, the decisive moment that would determine a win or loss for the Outlaws was upon us. With two strikes and three balls, my daughter stood at home plate ready for the last pitch. As the girls and the coach cheered her on, affectionately calling her “Crazy”, my friend’s dad yelled “Here’s
2009
On a brighter note Lori Welbourne your chance to be a hero.” I held my breath, the ball was thrown, and Daisy swung at it with everything she had, plowing it straight down the middle to the outfield, as the girls on base ran into home, winning the game. It was tremendously exciting and one of those times I wish a video camera had been rolling. It was also one of those moments that has Daisy feeling her family’s passion for baseball even more than she already did.
Black Press Group Ltd.
2009 WINNER
B.C. Owned and Operated
DISTRIBUTED EVERY WEDNESDAY HOUSTON TODAY published by Black Press “Member, B.C. Press Council” www.bcpresscouncil.org Reproduction of contents either in part or in whole are not permitted without prior consent Copyright Canada No. 22 Serial No. 132934
Annual Subscriptions: Local (Houston only): $38.00 (includes tax) Seniors: $28.00 (includes tax) Out of Town: $50.00 (includes tax) We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
M.A. Ruiter - Sales Manager Jackie Lieuwen - Reporter/Photographer Annamarie Douglas - Production Manager
BC Press Council - Houston Today is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent within 45 days to B.C. Press Council, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith,B.C. V9G 1A9. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org
Houston Today
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
HOUSTON TODAY “Member, B.C. Press Council” Published by Black Press Upstairs Houston Mall P.O. Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0
Opinion
www.houston-today.com
5
Phone: 250 845-2890 • Fax 250 845-7893 News: editor@houston-today.com or: newsroom@houston-today.com Advertising: advertising@houston-today.com
On the
Street... What is the biggest way that the HFP closure has impacted Houston?
By Jackie Lieuwen
John Atkinson Business owner “Taxes. It’s been really bad for the tax base and we’re concerned about less taxes. Will we get streets repaired?”
Henry Fennema Business owner
Kevin Groot Business owner
“It just stifles the “I would think it’s overall business the people who have growth and the service left Houston and the potential for businesses small businesses in in the community. It town. The industrial holds us back again companies have a for a number of years. bigger market, in town We’re a resilient bunch is where they’re going here, we’ll get through to get hit the most.” it, but we are paddling upstream again.”
Pat McKenzie Secretary
Tom Euverman Business owner
“The biggest is property taxes. We’ve lost part of our tax base, so taxes are going up 2.8 percent. I don’t know about how population or retail has been impacted. I know houses are selling, and some people are buying here rather then Smithers because of the price.”
“The main thing is the amount of payroll that is no longer here. That is pretty large. HFP also employed some people here who were valuable to the community because they volunteered a lot of their time in things like cross-country skiing. When you lose people like that, it is tough to replace.”
Houston schools report minor drop in enrolment By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today
Houston school enrolment has seen a minor drop since HFP closed last May. Since May 2014, Houston Secondary School is up three students, Twain Sullivan is down 13 and Silverthorne lost four. Secretary Treasurer Dave Margerm says they estimate that Houston schools lost
25 to 30 students due to the mill closure. However, the loss was countered with a small enrolment increase due to incoming Canfor families, Margerm said. Projections for September 2015 expect another minor increase in enrolment. S c h o o l superintendent Chris van der Mark says the impact of the mill closure was “better
then we feared.” “Houston is kind of holding its own,” he said. When asked if there was any threat of a Houston school closing, van der Mark said it is not being considered. “We have not had a conversation about school closure since Quick. It hasn’t been a topic,” he said. “On the short term, I would certainly say no.”
Houston and workers manage well after HFP closure By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today
The community of Houston felt devastated a year ago when Houston Forest Products shut the mill May 9, 2014. With the closure, 217 people lost their jobs. However, in the words of a school superintendent, “Houston is holding its own.” Despite the mill closure, many in Houston believe the town population has not changed. The last census in 2011 records a
“
Houston population of 3,163. B.C. Stats estimates that the 2014 population of
thinks the Houston population is the same. “We didn’t lose very many people from
“I really can’t say there has been a drop in population,”
Houston was 3,142. Business owners Henry Fennema and Tom Euverman said they believe there is a very minor population drop. Chamber of Commerce President Troy Reitsma says he
- Mayor Shane Brienen the mill closure. Most people stayed here,” he said. Mayor Shane Brienen agreed. There are new people in town, school enrolment is steady and real estate is active, he said.
“I really can’t say there has been a drop [in population],” Brienen said. “It seems crazy I know, with 200 direct jobs lost, but I know a lot of them went out and got camp jobs. And I know Canfor took a few in.” Canfor Human Resource Manager Matt Franks says Canfor hired 48 people from HFP. The latest statistics on prior HFP employees are from the West Fraser transition co-ordinator June 6, 2014. She reported last year that of the 217
HFP employees, 48 transferred within West Fraser, 28 retired, 50 found other work, 28 were considering retraining, and 38 were still looking for work. Dennis Verbeek, prior employee of HFP, started his own carpentry business after the mill closed. He says his impression is that most of the prior HFP employees stayed in Houston and found other work. Some work at Canfor, some took advantage of available training and got jobs through that, and some
found employment in other fields, Verbeek said. Most are doing better than they were before the mill closed, he said. One loss that is felt acutely by many community groups, is the loss of active volunteers who moved away after HFP closed. Houston Link to Learning, Morice Mountain Nordic Ski Club and Houston Hikers all said they felt that hit. B.C. Stats estimates that the Houston population dropped 0.5 percent from 2013 to 2014.
Their estimates show minor population drops in many communities throughout the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako. From 2013 to 2014, Smithers dropped 2.7 percent to 5,103; Telkwa dropped 0.5 percent to 1,377; Burns Lake dropped 1.3 per cent to 1,999 people; and Vanderhoof dropped 1.5 percent to 4,539. A few communities grew: Granisle went up 1.0 percent to 304, Fraser Lake went up 1.2 percent to 1,171, and Fort St. James up 0.9 percent to 1,808.
6
www.houston-today.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
NEWS PHOTO FEATURE
DEMOLISHING HFP
Houston Today
West Fraser shipped parts from Houston Forest Products across B.C. and into Alberta and the U.S. International Machinery Movers is dismantling the mill and salvaging parts of the planer and sawmill that were sold. Joe Chiasson, Site Manager, said that they salvaged two kilns, a sorter bin, conveyer, transfer deck, quad saws, trim saws, edgers and “almost everything.� They shipped the parts to be rebuilt onto other mills in Oregon, Idaho, Washington, Alberta and across B.C. Some of the places include Port Clements, Hazelton, Burns Lake, Prince George, Mackenzie, Williams Lake, Castlegar and the Lower Mainland. Jackie Lieuwen photos /Houston Today
Quality Applicants. Just one of the reasons to call LocalWorkBC.ca for all your job recruitment needs.
1-855-678-7833
/localwork-bc
@localworkbc
Houston Today
NEWS
www.houston-today.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
7
HFP closure impact: “Houston holding its own”
“
Real estate market bustling since mill closure last year By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today
Remax owner Lia Long says 30 percent of her sales were to buyers from Whitehorse, Alberta, Williams Lake, Quesnel, Smithers, Burns Lake, Prince George, Fort St.
John and the Lower Mainland. Sales in 2014 went up 40 percent from 2013, she said. “I’ve actually been busier then I was prior to the mill closure,” Long said. “Last year was one of the best years I’ve ever had and this year
has been exceptional so far too.” House prices have not dropped and Long says she thinks the population has not either. “A lot of people are coming here to work or retire… it’s just affordable,” she said. Dan Hansma,
“Last year was one of the best years I’ve ever had,” - Remax owner Lia Long
owner of Calderwood Realty, says the market
slowed down for a few months after the HFP
closure announcement in October 2013, but then when the mill closed in May 2014, sales picked right up. “It was busy for the rest of the year,” he said. Hansma says his sales are up compared to last year, and there are less properties on
the market. “So far, the market in 2015 has been steady,” he said. “Prices don’t seem to fluctuate too much in Houston (even with the recent mill closure), rather we see a slight and steady increase in property values over time.”
Retailers report small drop in sales, good overall By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today
Business in Houston is facing a smaller impact than expected after the closure of Houston Forest Products a year ago. “It’s bad, but it’s not as bad as people think,” said retail business owner Tom Euverman. He says “the retailers that had direct accounts with HFP are down for sure, but others haven’t been af-
“
fected as much.” Chamber of Commerce President Troy Reitsma says local business had to ad-
have seen a small drop in sales, but overall sales have still been good,” Reitsma said. “The community
over $70,000 worth of gift certificates last year which helps keep local dollars local.” Rod Kluss, own-
“We have the opportunity to provide the supplies needed for mining exploration and the [proposed] LNG lines,”
just staffing and stock in response to the mill closure. “Some businesses
- Chamber President Troy Reitsma has been very supportive to the local businesses. The merchant dollars program sold
er of First Choice Fashions, says he has lost sales in work boots and clothing
since the mill closed. “It has affected my sales overall because of losing all those workers,” he said. Kluss says the impact on retail depends on the business. “It varies as to what retail business you are in,” he said. “I think some of them probably aren’t affected, others are a little bit.” In the last year, Houston’s economic activity has been quite steady. Since the mill clo-
sure, Houston’s veterinary clinic closed and a new Majestic Restaurant opened. Several businesses changed hands, including Happy Jacks Pub, Subway and the laundromat. Reitsma says the mill closure has required Houston to diversify its economic focus. “We can not rely solely on forestry as our main driver. The community needs to look at other sectors such as tourism and
mining,” he said. “With our ideal location, we have the opportunity to provide the supplies that are needed for mining exploration and the [proposed] LNG lines.” Euverman says pipeline activity is sustaining some optimism among retail business owners. He hopes it will bring a temporary boost. “Who knows what’s coming down the pipe?” he said.
HFP closure “good for long-term stability” of Houston By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today
Logging and forestry companies face a more direct affect from the closure of Houston Forest Products. Henry Fennema, coowner of Nadina Truck Service, says they see some impact. “There is less wood in the area to log. Less wood to log is less work and less revenue. That means less dollars to go through the community,” he said. “We are down a bit, but overall we’ve been blessed. “The community support has been great
- providing us opportunities to work,” he said. Mark Groot, Business Manager of Groot Brothers Contracting, says the impact of the HFP closure on them was small. “I can’t speak for everyone. Others may have been impacted more then we were, but [contractors] did feel a bit of a reduction,” he said. When HFP closed, Canfor hired Tahtsa Timber and Tom Neufeld Trucking, Groot said. “Our volume has shrunk a little bit to make room for those extra contractors.”
Despite the volume loss, Groot says their employee base of 35 to 40 people has stayed stable. Cleaning up beetlekilled wood and logging areas with lower-quality timber uses more people. “It takes more effort to get the same volume,” he said. With the overall decrease in local logging, Groot says one positive thing is that it is easier to find employees and trucks. “There are more qualified people around than there was prior to the mill shutting down,” he said.
Wilson Brothers Contracting employs 20 people and reported that the HFP closure has not impacted their business at all. Other companies are
“
says they lost revenue from local contractors because of the HFP closure, but gained it back from other companies. “Now [sawmills] are hauling farther distanc-
with what was lost with the local contractors.” Silviculturist Steve Wright says the mill closure is actually better long-term for the Houston economy.
“There seems to be some diversification happening in our town to take the void with HFP leaving,” - Business owner Kevin Groot
also seeing revenues balance. Peterbilt is a heavy truck parts and serving company that employs 25 people in Houston. Owner Kevin Groot
es and they need more trucks and trailers,” Kevin said. “The trucking has increased on that part, so that’s where the business has evened out
EXCITING FEATURES
“The most important thing is that we have a mill with guaranteed wood supply, so it’s going to be here a long time,” Wright said. “We’re secure with
• RECRUITING HERE!! • NEW! Northern BC Safety Conference • Pre-Trip Trucking Competition
one mill, with two mills we’re over cutting. [The HFP closure] is good for long- term stability.” Kevin Groot says the mill closure is also prompting diversification in the Houston economy. “There seems to be some diversification happening in our town to take up that void with HFP leaving.” He notes there seems to be more wood waste being used for things such as wood chips. “ D ive r s i f i c at i o n is the only way to get through something like this,” he said. “I think it’s just starting to happen.”
8
www.houston-today.com
COMMUNITY
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Houston Today
POWER PRODUCTS
XT2
21 HP Kawasaki 597cc. 42” deck, Hydrostatic transmission w/ cruise control SINCE 1961 Y BETTER. CAN’T GET AN T DE CUB CA
RZT S 46
23 HP Kohler V-twin cylinder, OHV engine, 46” deck, 0 turn All wheel steering.
• Tractors • Pushmowers • Tillers
0%
FINANCING AVAILABLE
OAC
Pumps & Fire Supplies Powersaws & Supplies Jonsered, Husqvarna, Echo UTVs & ATVs Sales & Parts
2815 - 5th Street, Houston Industrial Site, Houston, B.C. • 250-845-3255
TREASURED Moments
Photos submitted
Houston Christian School swarmed with activity during Grandparents Day last Thursday. Above: Mr. Saretsky with Abner. Below: Mrs. Matthews and her grandson Chris. Bottom: Mr. Lieuwen enjoys watching his grandson’s class.
Northern health the northern way of caring
connections
Book your trip today: online at nhconnections.ca or call 1-888-647-4997 • • •
New online booking system Onboard debit machine Safe, reliable transportation for anyone travelling to any kind of health care appointment
Spring Furniture Sale
20 off %
DISTRICT OF HOUSTON www.houston.ca
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing affecting the “District of Houston Development Bylaw No. 1040, 2013” will be held on: Tuesday, June 2, 2015 at 7:00 pm in the District of Houston Council Chambers, 3367 – 12th Street, Houston, B.C. “District of Houston Development Bylaw No. 1040, 2013” is proposed to be amended by Bylaw No. 1070, 2015 which would rezone the lands described as Lots 1-2, District Lot 338, Range 5, Land District, Plan 3817 only, from A-2 (Rural Residential) to Manufactured Home Park. The applicant has applied to rezone this property to bring it into compliance with its present use as a Manufactured Home Park. Civic Address: 1-1700 Hwy 16
all instock Furniture
PETE
CONTRACTING LTD.
Come be inspired! At a Public Hearing all persons who believe that their interest in the property is affected by the proposed bylaws shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to be heard, or to present a written submission respecting matters contained in the bylaws that are the subject of the Public Hearing.
www.heartstringsdecor.com shop on-line
The Public Hearing on Bylaw No. 1070, 2015 will be chaired by Mayor Shane Brienen. Full particulars may be reviewed by the public by requesting to inspect “District of Houston Development Bylaw No. 1040, 2013” at the District of Houston Municipal Office during regular business hours, Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm (except on statutory holidays). For more information please contact: Michael D. Glavin, Chief Administrative Officer Phone: 250-845-2238
2815 - 5th Street, Houston BC • Trucking • Loading • Excavating • Grading • Track Skidsteer • Site Prep • Demolition Cleanup
• Landscaping • Aggregates • Sand • Screened Top Soil • White
Landscape Rock
Phone: 250-845-2498
Houston Today
NEWS
www.houston-today.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Nurses push for new hires By Tom Fletcher
“ Black Press
Members of the B.C. Nurses’ Union brought a sea of pink
Don’t miss our
CUSTOMER
Appreciation
cialist nursing where we do have challenges, and we have committed some of our funding to recruit and train more specialist nurses,
DAY
Wednesday, May 27
15 OFF EVERYTHING %
“We don’t have enough nurses to deliver safe care,”
umbrellas to the B.C. legislature Thursday to call on the B.C. government to honour a provision that requires health authorities to replace absent nurses. BCNU president Gayle Duteil said 2012 contract provision replacing absent nurses can’t be implemented without more registered nurses hired to provide the relief. “It’s a sad fact that we don’t have enough nurses to deliver safe care for meeting the staffing mandated by our collective agreement,” Duteil said. “We don’t have enough nurses to backfill vacancies, to backfill absences, and we don’t have enough nurses to meet the daily spikes in acuity.” The recent settlement of 1,600 union grievances for staffing includes $5 million for specialty nurse training, $1 million to support increased RN staffing and $2 million in “grievance settlement funds” paid to nurses affected by staffing shortages. The staffing fund is available to licensed practical nurses who want to upgrade their training. Health Minister Terry Lake said the interim agreement is a step towards renewing the latest BCNU contract, which expired in March 2014. “We worked through a mediator in the last month or so and came to an agreement, so I think we’re in a good place to work towards our new contract,” Lake said. “We recognize there are some areas like spe-
- BCNU president Gayle Duteil and more community nurses as well.” Nurses cheered as Duteil reminded them that their “grievalanche” had an effect. She said the union documented 10,000 shifts that were not filled during a sixweek period at health facilities around the province, and represent only the “tip of the iceberg.” NDP leader John Horgan addressed the rally, promising that his 2017 election platform will put nurses “front and centre in the health care model.”
Last Wednesday of every month! Some exceptions apply
Here to serve you 6 days a week... 9am-6pm!
3429 - 10th Street, Steelhead Centre, Houston • Phone: 250-845-3700
Photo submitted
RUNNING Moms
Forty ladies ran and walked a set route in the recent Mothers Day Run/Walk put on by Houston ACT Committee. ACT member Sue Jones says the non-competitive event raised $400 for the Northern Society for Domestic Peace. Shannon Clarke won a beautiful Mothers Day gift basket. ACT is putting out a survey to decide the best time, location and competition-level of this event for the future. With a couple of clicks, add your event today.
www.vicnews.com www.houston-today.com
events Wonline » there’s more
INLAND is pleased to announce... DARREN BROOK
has returned to the Bulkley Valley as
Territory Manager.
Darren will start in his new role and traveling the territory May 19th.
You can also stop by the Inland booth at the
Canada North Resources Expo May 29th & 30th
to visit Darren along with representatives from Case, Link Belt, Tigercat Owner Ken MacDonald with special guest Bobby Goodson from Swamp Logger. The Inland Group 1995 Quinn Street Prince George BC V2N-2X2 Office: 250-562-8171
LAKE BABINE NATION
NOTICE OF ELECTION POLLING STATIONS Notice is hereby given that Lake Babine Nation has called an Election in accordance with its Election Code, for the purpose of electing: one (1) Chief; four (4) Woyenne Councillors; two (2) Fort Babine Councillors; two (2) Tachet Councillors; and one (1) Old Fort Councillor on July 3rd, 2015, for the next ensuing Term of Office.
NOTICE OF ELECTION FRIDAY, JULY 3RD, 2015 8:00 AM TO 8:00 PM WOYENNE (Margaret Patrick Hall, 819 Centre Street, Burns Lake)
TACHET - HEALTH CLINIC (18 Eaglenest Crescent, Tachet)
FORT BABINE - HEALTH CLINIC (70 Rainbow Drive, Fort Babine)
PRINCE GEORGE
(Native Friendship Centre - 1600 3rd Avenue)
SMITHERS
(Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre 1188 Main Street)
Please see the web site below for information on the election:
WWW.LAKEBABINE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT THE ELECTORAL OFFICER DIRECTLY BALLOTS WILL BE COUNTED IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE CLOSE OF THE POLL
Official Voters List An official Voters List of all Eligible Electors shall be available for review during regular business hours at the Lake Babine Nation Administration Office, or directly from the Electoral Officer.
VANCOUVER
(Native Friendship Centre Given under my hand at Victoria, British 1607 East Hastings Street) Columbia, this 30th day of April 2015. Notice is hereby given that an Election will be held at all six locations listed above on July 3rd, 2015 from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, for Lawrence Lewis, Electorial Officer the purpose of electing one (1) Chief and nine (9) Councillors for the next ensuing term.
NOMINATION MEETINGS FRIDAY, JUNE 5TH, 2015 4:30 PM TO 8:30 PM FORT BABINE / TACHET / WOYENNE
ADVANCE POLLING TUESDAY, JUNE 23RD, 2015 12:00 NOON TO 8:00 PM FORT BABINE / TACHET / WOYENNE
For more information please contact
Lawrence Lewis, Electoral Officer Ph/Text: 250-889-1582 TF: 1-855-458-5888 Fax: 250-384-5416 Email: lewis.l@telus.net PO Box 35008 Hillside, Victoria, BC V8T 5G2 (or Drew Shaw, Deputy Electoral Ph/Text: 250-710-1451 Email: seath6@shaw.ca)
WWW.LAKEBABINE.COM
9
10
www.houston-today.com
SPORTS PHOTO FEATURE
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Houston Today
MAY DAYS RODEO Crowds of people from Terrace to Prince George and as far as Alberta packed Four Seasons Park for May Days Rodeo last weekend. The four day event included stick horse rodeo for kids, cattle sorting and roping clinics, barrel racing, break away roping and a gymkhana. Top left: Little cowboy Blake makes his way across the grounds. Top right: Mattea races her stick horse to the finish line. Jackie Lieuwen photos/ Houston Today
Kristin Bell races around the track at Four Seasons.
Linden makes it under his first obstacle in the stick horse rodeo last weekend.
Above: Nicole Oben separates a few steers during the cattle sorting clinic last Friday.
Tori Long whips around the barrel and breaks off home.
MyLink† with 4G LTE Wi-Fi®
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
TRADE TRADE
ALL 2015s COME WITH CHEVROLET COMPLETE CARE:
2
CHEVY TRUCK EVENT $
2,500
5-STAR OVERALL VEHICLE SCORE FOR SAFETY<>
YEARS/40,000KM COMPLIMENTARY OIL CHANGES^
UP TO
ALL-NEW CHEVY COLORADO 2015 Motor Trend Truck of the Year®
$
10,000
5 TOTAL VALUE*
2015 SILVERADO 1500
$
$
1500 CREW CAB 4X4 MODEL SHOWN
YEARS/160,000 KM POWERTRAIN WARRANTY ^^
5
***
LONGEST PICKUP POWERTRAIN WARRANTY IN CANADA, 60,000 KM MORE THAN FORD AND RAM.+
YEARS/160,000 KM ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE ^^
$
TRADE IN ANY 08 OR OLDER VEHICLE TOWARDS A NEW SILVERADO. MAXIMUM CREDIT IS FOR SILVERADO HD. ALL CREDITS INCLUDE OWNER/CONQUEST CASH.
10,000
WITH UP TO
IN TOTAL VALUE ON 2015 SILVERADO 1500 DOUBLE CAB TRUE NORTH EDITIONS*
CHEVY SILVERADO Awarded the Lowest Total Cost of Ownership in its Class by Vincentric‡
CHEVROLET IS THE FASTEST GROWING PICKUP BRAND IN CANADA
DOUBLE CAB 4X4 1WT
With $2,400 Down Based on a Lease Price Of $31,271**. Includes $1,000 Owner Cash for Eligible Customers††, $4,500 in Credits, $1,000 Discount Credit, Freight & PDI.
135 0 @
CREW CAB 4X4 1WT
With $2,400 Down Based on a Lease Price Of $34,225**. Includes $1,000 Owner Cash for Eligible Customers††, $3,500 in Credits, $1,000 Discount Credit, Freight & PDI.
145 0
@
%
% BI-WEEKLY FOR
BI-WEEKLY FOR
AVAILABLE BEST-IN-CLASS V8 FUEL EFFICIENCY~
++
2015 SILVERADO 1500
DOUBLE CAB TRUE NORTH EDITION
UP TO
Includes $4,500 Delivery Credit, $2,420 Package Discount, $2,080 Cash Credit, $1,000 Owner Cash††.
TRUE NORTH EDITION INCLUDES: AND MORE!
See chevrolet.ca For Details
Remote Start Class-Exclusive Rear Vision Camera Automatic Locking Rear Differential
MONTHS
24
OR STEP UP TO
24
MONTHS
FIRST PICKUP TRUCK TO OFFER BUILT-IN 4G LTE WI-FI†††
CHEVROLET.CA
OFFERS END JUNE 1 ST
Call Sullivan Motor Products at 250-845-2244, or visit us at 2760 Yellowhead Highway, Houston. [License #5631]
ON NOW AT YOUR BC CHEVROLET DEALERS. Chevrolet.ca 1-800-GM-DRIVE. Chevrolet is a brand of General Motors of Canada. Offers apply to the purchase, lease and finance of a 2015 Silverado 1500 Double Cab 1WT/Silverado 1500 Crew Cab 1WT (G80/B30/H2R), equipped as described. Freight ($1,695) and PDI included. License, insurance, registration, administration fees, dealer fees, PPSA and taxes not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited time offers which may not be combined with other offers, and are subject to change without notice. Offers apply to qualified retail customers in BC Chevrolet Dealer Marketing Association area only. Dealer order or trade may be required. * $10,000 is a combined total credit consisting of a $4,500 manufacturer to dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive) for 2015 Silverado Light Duty Double Cab, $1,000 Owner Cash (tax inclusive), a $2,420 manufacturer to dealer Option Package Discount Credit (tax exclusive) for 2015 Chevrolet Silverado Light Duty (1500) Double Cab 1LT equipped with a True North Edition and a $2,080 manufacturer to dealer cash credit (tax exclusive) on Silverado Light Duty (1500) Double Cab LS Chrome Edition, LT and LTZ, which is available for cash purchases only and cannot be combined with special lease and finance rates. By selecting lease or finance offers, consumers are foregoing this $2,080 credit which will result in higher effective interest rates. Discounts vary by model. ‡ Based on Vincentric 2014 Model Level Analysis of full-size pickups in the Canadian retail market. †† Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any model year 1999 or newer car that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit valid towards the retail purchase or lease of one eligible 2015 model year Chevrolet car, SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between May 1st – June 1st, 2015. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive) and credit value depends on model purchased: $500 credit available on Chevrolet Spark, Sonic, Cruze, Volt, Trax, Malibu (expect LS) ; $750 credit available on others Chevrolet vehicles (except Colorado 2SA, Camaro Z28, Malibu LS, Silverado Light Duty and Heavy Duty); $1000 credit available on all Chevrolet Silverado’s. Offer is transferable to a family member living within the same household (proof of address required). As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada Limited (GMCL) to verify eligibility. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Certain limitations or conditions apply. Void where prohibited. See your GMCL dealer for details. GMCL reserves the right to amend or terminate offers for any reason in whole or in part at any time without prior notice. Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any Pontiac/Saturn/SAAB/Hummer/ Oldsmobile model year 1999 or newer car or Chevrolet Cobalt or HHR, Avalanche, Aveo, Orlando, Optra, Tracker, Uplander, Venture, Astro, Blazer, Trailblazer, GMC Safari, Jimmy, Envoy , Buick Rendezvous and Terraza that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit valid towards the retail purchase or lease of one eligible 2015 model year Chevrolet car, SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between May 1st – June 1st, 2015. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive): $1,000 credit available on Chevrolet Spark, Sonic, Cruze, Volt, Trax, Malibu (expect LS); $1,500 credit available on other eligible Chevrolet vehicles (except Chevrolet Colorado 2SA, Camaro Z28, Malibu LS). Offer is transferable to a family member living within the same household (proof of address required). As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada Limited (GMCL) to verify eligibility. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Certain limitations or conditions apply. Void where prohibited. See your GMCL dealer for details. GMCL reserves the right to amend or terminate offers for any reason in whole or in part at any time without prior notice. † MyLink functionality varies by model. Full functionality requires compatible Bluetooth® and smartphone, and USB connectivity for some devices. **Lease based on a purchase price of $31,271/$34,225 (including $4,500/$3,500 manufacturer to dealer delivery credit, a $1,000/$1,000 manufacturer to dealer Option Package Discount Credit and a $893 Owner Cash) for a Silverado 1500 Double Cab 1WT (G80/ B30/H2R) and Silverado 1500 Crew Cab 1WT (G80/B30/H2R).Bi-weekly payment is $135/$145 for 24 months at 0.0% APR, and includes Freight and Air Tax, on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. Annual kilometer limit of 20,000 km, $0.16 per excess kilometer. $2,400 down payment is required. Payment may vary depending on down payment trade. Total obligation is $9,408/$9,919, plus applicable taxes. Option to purchase at lease end is $21,863/$24,305. Price and total obligation exclude license, insurance, registration, taxes, dealer fees and optional equipment. Other lease options are available. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited time offer which may not be combined with other offers. See your dealer for conditions and details. General Motors of Canada Limited reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. ***Trade In, Trade Up Bonus is available towards the purchase/ finance/ lease of a 2015MY Silverado LD ($1,000) or HD ($1,500)and is tax inclusive. To be eligible, a 2008 MY or older vehicle must be traded in to the selling dealer. The maximum available credit of $2,500 applies to 2015 Silverado HD and consists of $1,000 conquest/loyalty credit and $1,500 Trade In, Trade Up Bonus. Offer valid until June 1, 2015. <> U.S. government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) New Car Assessment Program (www.SaferCar.gov). + Based on wardsauto.com 2014 Large Pickup segment and latest competitive information available at time of posting. Excludes other GM vehicles. 5-year/160,000 kilometre Powertrain Limited Warranty, whichever comes first. See dealer for details. ~ 2015 Silverado 1500 with available 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission has a fuel-consumption rating of 12.7 L/100 km combined (4x2) and 13.0 L/100 km combined (4x4). Fuel-consumption ratings based on GM testing in accordance with the new 2015 model-year Government of Canada approved test methods. Refer to vehicles.nrcan.gc.ca for details. Your actual fuel consumption may vary. Comparison based on wardsauto.com 2014 Large Pickup segment and latest competitive information available. Competitive fuel-consumption ratings based on 2014 Natural Resources Canada’s Fuel Consumption Guide. Excludes other GM vehicles. ††† Visit onstar.ca for coverage maps, details and system limitations. Services and connectivity may vary by model and conditions. OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity is available on select vehicle models and in select markets. Customers will be able to access OnStar services only if they accept the OnStar User Terms and Privacy Statement (including software terms). OnStar acts as a link to existing emergency service providers. After the trial period (if applicable), an active OnStar service plan is required. ^ The 2-Year Scheduled LOF Maintenance Program provides eligible customers in Canada who have purchased, leased or financed a new eligible 2015 MY Chevrolet vehicle (excluding Spark EV) with an ACDelco oil and filter change, in accordance with the Oil Life Monitoring System and the Owner’s Manual, for 2 years or 40,000 km, whichever occurs first, with a limit of four lube-oil-filter services in total, performed at participating GM dealers. Fluid top-offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc., are not covered. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. General Motors of Canada Limited reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ^^Whichever comes first. See dealer for details.
Houston Today www.houston-today.com 11
12
www.houston-today.com
NEWS PHOTO FEATURE
The fire started after high-winds blew a tree onto the power line west of Perow Loop recently. B.C. Hydro came and cut the power for two hours while the fire was contained.
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Topley Fire Lieutenant and Safety Officer Rob Saunders hoses down some flames on the charred hillside by Perow. The Topley Volunteer Fire Department fought to contain the fire for two hours before handing it over to a wildfire initial attack crew.
Wildfire chars hillside by Perow Loop Flames tore through four hectares of forest west of Perow Loop Road recently. Five firefighters used three fire engines to contain the blaze, which was moving rapidly due to high winds. Topley Fire Chief Byron Sketchley says the Topley firefighters contained most of the fire after being called in at 7 p.m. Right: An Initial Attack crew from the BC Wildfires Branch took over from the Fire Department at 9 p.m. The nine person crew contained the final flames of the fourhectare blaze and mopped up hot spots after the fire. No structures were burned and no one was hurt. Jackie Lieuwen photos/Houston Today
Houston Today
Houston Today
SPORTS
www.houston-today.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
13
• Power Saws • Trimmers • Ride/On Mowers
Pumps & Fire Supplies Powersaws & Supplies Jonsered, Husqvarna, Echo UTVs & ATVs Sales & Parts
2815 - 5th Street, Houston Industrial Site, Houston, B.C.
PHONE: (250) 845-3255
HAVING A GARAGE SALE? Reach over 1,500 people by advertising in Houston Today. Call 250-845-2890
I ��� �� ���� ����� ��
��������� ����� �� ����
• M�������� • F�������� P������� • D������ ���� ���� Call Jean Marr
UP & Away
Houston Secondary School rugby teams won zones and are competing in provincials this coming week. The boys compete in Abbotsford May 26 and the girls in North Vancouver May 21.
Police report Police got report of mischief on Hagman Crescent and Hungerford Drive May 5. RCMP Corporal Stephen Thackeray says people are taking the covers off storm drains. Anyone with information is asked to contact Houston RCMP 250-845-2204 or the District of Houston at 250-845-2238. *** Police arrested a male for impaired driving at the RCMP Detachment May
tion is ongoing. Cpl. Thackeray says police believe the male was targeted and there is no risk to the public. *** Police got report of vandalism at the Owen Lake campground on May 9.
7. Cpl. Thackeray says the male failed a breath sample and faces charges for impaired driving. The vehicle was seized for 24 hours. *** A male reported he was assaulted by three people at the entrance to the Ambassador Trailer Park at 2:25 a.m. May 8. Cpl. Thackeray says paramedics assisted the male whose face was bleeding. The suspects are unknown and investiga-
Cpl. Thackeray says someone cut up a picnic table with a chainsaw and used it for firewood. The suspects are unknown and police ask the public to report such incidents if they are seen.
Lot A
5.44ac
S
Spring Special: Crushed Gravel $130/TRUCK LOAD WE HAVE...
Topsoil • Drain Rock • Crushed Gravel Washed Gravel • Cement Gravel PHONE:
well
5.46ac
250-845-7202
Lot D 11.51ac
Lot E 9.22ac
well
LD
O
6.10ac
6.13ac
S
Lot I
G Lot H Lot 6.35ac
Serving the Burns Lake & Houston areas
Jean Marr Investors Group, Consultant
Cell: (250) 691-1641 Fax: (250) 692-3685 jean.marr@investorsgroup.com 23 - 3rd Ave., Burns Lake 2430 Butler Ave. Houston
Investors Group Financial Services Inc.
SAND AND GRAVEL
well
OLD
*** In seven days, police had 56 calls for service.
to book your appointment today.
MORICE RIVER
View lots are now for sale in Houston B.C. Lot B
Investors Group
Photos submitted
well
LD O S
Pioneer Road, Highway 16 West, Houston BC
• Oil Seal Coat Highway specs road • Hydro & telephone • School Bus • Garbage pick up • Fire protection • PNG Gas Located at Highway 16 West and the end of Pioneer Road.
7 LOTS FOR SALE
Phone: 250-845-2498 or 250-845-7419
Start your project NOW, and pay LATER!
DO NOT PAY FOR 6 MONTHS* *OAC. See dealer for details.
14
www.houston-today.com
NEWS
AMP CALEDONIA Teen Camp - Ages 12-15 July 6-11th Mixed Camp - Ages 7-12 July 13-18th Mixed Camp - Ages 7-12 July 20-25th
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
$240/child $225/child $225/child
Summer 2015 - Caring and Sharing Activities include: swimming, canoeing, archery, singing, crafts, chapel time and FUN on Tyhee Lake! Registration forms are available at our website: campcaledonia.ca Some bursaries are available. More Questions: Email: registrar@campcaledonia.ca
Need a cat and a hoe?
Our Kobelco hoe comes with a 6 way blade. Great for those midsize projects where you need a little more than just an excavator!
Sacrificing farmland By Tom Fletcher Black Press
It was 2008 when word first surfaced that B.C. farmland was being bought up to grow trees as a European carbon offset. Reckitt Benckiser Inc., a British-based global manufacturer of household products such as Lysol spray and Calgon laundry soap, bought 1,500 hectares east of Vanderhoof and planted aspen. For comparison, that’s about the size of downtown Vancouver from 16th and Oak to Stanley Park. Since tree growing is permitted in the Agricultural Land Reserve, a use intended for fruit, ornamental or nursery trees, no permission was needed. And to meet the carbon offset rules of the UN’s International Panel on Climate Change, a 100-year restrictive covenant against harvesting
trees was issued by B.C.’s land titles office. Goodbye farmland. After that deal, the B.C. government changed legislation in 2011 to require permission from the Agricultural Land Commission to make these covenants valid. Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick says he is waiting for that process to be tested. It likely will be soon. Reckitt has bought another 7,000 hectares of cleared farmland from Prince George down through the Cariboo to Quesnel. NDP agriculture critic Lana Popham has been tracking these acquisitions, and she says there are more deals in the works. Last fall, the Bulkley Nechako Regional District wrote to Victoria Wood, Reckitt Benckiser’s “global head of sustainability,” telling her that “the planting of trees
HOPE forToday The Vilest Offender
He saw a man severely beating his own countryman. Overcome with it all, he beat the aggressor to death then buried him in the sand, hoping nobody noticed. He subsequently spent 40 years running from the authorities and from God. (Exodus 2:11-15) Another man followed the dictates of his religion and thus hated Christians. He hunted them down, beat them, imprisoning some. He even stood watching in approval as one was stoned to death right in front of him. (Acts 8:1-3; 9:1-2) A third man was a slave trader. He was vile and had absolutely no compassion in his heart as they caught slaves, cruelly holding them in putrid, dingy ship holds, bringing them to be sold as chattel in slave markets. He was involved in the death and misery of many slaves. The first person mentioned here is Moses, the man who later faced God at the burning bush and was called by God to set the people of Israel free from Egyptian bondage. (Exodus 3 & 4) The second person mentioned was the Saul, who changed his name to Paul after his encounter with Jesus on the Damascus road, when he became a follower of Jesus and an Apostle of the Christian Church. God used him to write many of the books of the New Testament in the Bible. (Acts 9:3-31) The third person mentioned above is John Newton who God convicted of his terrible lifestyle. He turned his life over to God and became a Christian Minister. He authored the popular hymn Amazing Grace. So, is there hope for one who has or is living a gross and vile lifestyle? Can the grace of God reach into the depths of a rotten and sinful life? The above mentioned people are examples of the extravagant and generous mercy of God to one who truly is sorry for their sin; one who turns from their sin towards God and asks for mercy, desiring to begin a new life that is pleasing to God. “Come now, let’s settle this” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make the as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool. If only you will obey me, you will have plenty to eat.” Isaiah 1:18,19 NLT “He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.” 2 Peter 2:9 NLT The great songwriter Fanny Crosby had it right when she wrote. “The vilest offender who truly believes, that moment from Jesus a pardon receives.”* *from the hymn “To God Be The Glory” by Fanny Crosby
2350 Fountain Frontage Rd, Burns Lake
Phone: 250-692-3324 email: concrete-1@telus.net
More than just Concrete
Submitted by Ken Penner
Sponsored by
Riverside Gardens Open May & June
3707 East Valley Road, Houston, B.C. Phone: 250 845-7707
on centrally located and productive agricultural lands is not appropriate” and would weaken local farm economies. Wood responded that the RB Trees project targets only “marginally productive” land such as pasture, abandoned farms or those that have been up for sale for long periods. Former Cariboo North MLA Bob Simpson raised the issue in the legislature in 2008, noting that Crown land near Vanderhoof had been sold for farming, bought by a numbered company and then “flipped” for around $1 million to RB Trees. Now mayor of Quesnel, Simpson takes issue with the company’s claims with his usual shyness. “It’s bull----,” he told me. “This isn’t marginal land.” He said it includes prime alfalfa fields and historical ranch and forage crop lands. In one case, neighbours found out about the new use when they saw a helicopter spraying herbicide to prepare the area for tree seedlings. In the Cariboo as in other rural B.C. areas, aging farmers want to retire and young people keen to work seven days a week are in short supply. So naturally there is pressure to sell. Perhaps Letnick
Houston Today
is right, and the ALC will stop productive farmland from being turned back into forest. While we’re waiting for that, here are a couple of other questions. What happens when these forests burn? The first big forest fire of 2015 grew out of control near Prince George last week. And since aspen doesn’t last 100 years, what is its real carbon offset value? How’s that European carbon trading market doing? It’s a mess, with the cost of emitting a tonne of carbon dioxide fallen far below what’s needed to be effective, and Interpol investigating various schemes to game the system. Remember B.C’s own Pacific Carbon Trust? This Gordon Campbell brainchild to sell carbon offsets was quietly greenhouse gassed after the Auditor General revealed its first two big projects were of questionable value to say the least. Finally, does anyone really think that returning B.C.’s scarce farmland to forest is a good way to change the weather? Would it offset the loss of local production and trucking in farm produce from elsewhere? And where are B.C.’s tireless food security advocates on this dubious scheme?
In partnership with
SAVE ANYWHERE. In partnership with In partnership with
SAVE SAVE ANYWHERE. ANYWHERE. ANYWHERE. In partnership with
Introducing the New Save.ca Mobile Cash-Back Feature. With exclusive offers for the brands you love & $5 cash-out minimums through PayPal, you’ll never go shopping without your smart phone again!
Introducing the New Save.ca Mobile Cash-Back Feature. Introducing the New Mobile Feature. With exclusive offers for theSave.ca brands you loveCash-Back & $5 cash-out minimums With exclusive offersnever for thegobrands youwithout love & $5 cash-out minimums through PayPal, you’ll shopping your smart phone again! Introducing the New Save.ca Mobile Cash-Back Feature. through PayPal, you’ll neverBack go shopping without yourSteps smart phone again! Get Cash in 3 Easy With exclusive offers for the brands you love & $5 cash-out minimums through PayPal, you’ll never go shopping without your smart phone again!
Cash Back inReceipt 3 Easy Steps 1. Browse &Get Shop 2. Upload 3. Get Cash Back!
Get Cash Back in 3 Easy Steps
Browse the mobile app Take a photo of your Once you reach just $5, 1. Browse & Shop 2. Upload Receipt Get Cashyou Back! for your favourite brand’s andin submit it 3.the money save will Get Cash receipt Back 3 Easy Steps mobile app a photo ofapp your Once youCash reach just $5,your 1.Browse Browse & Shop 2.Take Upload Receipt 3. Get Back! offers, andthe purchase through the be transferred into for your favourite receipt and submit it the money you save them at any storebrand’s PayPal wallet Browse the mobile app Take a photo of your Once you reach justwill $5, offers, and through the app 1. Browse &purchase Shop Upload Receipt for your favourite brand’s 2. receipt and submit it
them at any store offers, purchase Browse theand mobile app at anybrand’s store for yourthem favourite offers, and purchase them at any store
through the of app Take a photo your receipt and submit it through the app
be into your 3.transferred Get Cash the money you saveBack! will PayPal wallet beOnce transferred into your you reach just $5, the PayPal moneywallet you save will be transferred into your PayPal wallet
Visit save.ca/cashback to Learn More Visit save.ca/cashback to Learn More Visit save.ca/cashback to Learn More
Visit save.ca/cashback to Learn More
Houston Today
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
www.houston-today.com
Coastal GasLink Pipeline Project
Committed to Environmental Protection and Safety Through April 2015, TransCanada’s Coastal GasLink Pipeline Project team hosted public question-and-answer sessions in nine northern B.C. communities. We’d like to thank everyone who attended, and take this opportunity to respond again to some of the questions that were asked.
What will Coastal GasLink do to ensure safe pipeline operation? •
Pipelines are the safest method of transporting natural gas. TransCanada has been in the pipeline business for over 60 years and is a leader in pipeline design and integrity management with one of the best pipeline safety and operating records in the industry.
•
During operation, every pipeline is monitored 24 hours a day by highly trained TransCanada employees from a computerized control centre. From there, we are able to detect changes in pressure along our pipelines and ensure that facilities are operating properly. We conduct aerial inspections, on-the-ground inspections, and in-line inspections using mobile remote sensors. Our TransCanada operations specialists, who will live in northern B.C. communities, will maintain the pipeline system and conduct ongoing pipeline safety awareness programs.
What is Coastal GasLink doing to protect the environment? •
We have spent the past three years and over 300,000 person hours gathering information on terrain, vegetation, wildlife, fish and cultural features across the proposed route.
•
In many cases, Aboriginal community members have shared traditional ecological knowledge as part of our environmental field studies program.
•
Our project application to the BC Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) presents detailed information on the environmental, social, heritage, health and economic values along the proposed route, along with our proposals for protecting those values. The application is posted on the EAO website at www.eao.gov.bc.ca.
•
•
In October 2014, after a public review of the application, the EAO issued an Environmental Assessment Certificate to Coastal GasLink, specifying ongoing detailed reporting and engagement with the public and Aboriginal communities. Our proposed pipeline route and construction plans already incorporate public input, and we continue to listen to communities. For example, we are currently exploring an alternate route in Wet’suwet’en territory southwest of Houston to see if it would further accommodate concerns about the Morice River.
What will Coastal GasLink do to protect fish and wildlife? •
Residents of northern B.C. recognize the value of salmon habitat. Each watercourse crossing along the Coastal GasLink route will be carefully studied and designed to minimize potential effects on fish, water and stream banks. We will reclaim the land we touch including important streams and riparian areas.
•
Coastal GasLink is developing comprehensive plans to protect caribou and grizzly bears and their habitat during construction and operation of the proposed pipeline. We have also committed $1.5 million toward provincial caribou management programs and $500,000 toward provincial grizzly bear management programs.
Environmental Protection and Safety_10.31x14_Final.indd 1
Coastal GasLink Pipeline Ltd. is proposing to develop an approximately 670 kilometre pipeline to safely deliver natural gas from the Groundbirch area, near Dawson Creek, B.C., to the proposed LNG Canada gas liquefaction facility at Kitimat. Coastal GasLink is committed to meeting or exceeding regulatory requirements, and to working with regulators through construction to achieve the highest standards of environmental protection. Once in operation, the proposed pipeline would be subject to ongoing regulatory monitoring by the BC Oil and Gas Commission. Coastal GasLink will provide numerous benefits to B.C. including property taxes, local contracting and business stimulus, community investments and more. For more information • Visit www.coastalgaslink.com • Contact us at coastalgaslink@transcanada.com or 1.855.633.2011 (toll-free) • Check us out on Twitter: @CoastalGasLink
5/15/2015 7:30:42 AM
15
16 www.houston-today.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2015 Houston Today
Your community. Your classiďŹ eds.
250.845.2890 fax 250.845.7893 email advertising@houston-today.com The Houston Mall, Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0 Phone: (250) 845-2890 Fax: (250) 845-7893 email: advertising@houston-today.com Published Every Wednesday
TO REACH THE MARKET
First advertise in the Houston Today! ALL WORD ADS go on the Internet for the whole world to see! www.bcclassified.com
REACHING US Call 250-845-2890 or come
by our office. Hours are 9:00 - 11:00 am & 1:00 - 3:00 pm Mon. & Wed. thru Fri. (closed Tuesdays). Fax in your ad to 250-845-7893 or email: advertising@houston-today.com
HOW TO PAY
Come to our office in the Houston Mall, or you may pay with Visa or Mastercard over the phone. All ads must be prepaid. No refunds.
AD CLASSIFIED RATES REGULAR WORD ADS
3 lines (one week) .............$9.95
LEGAL ADS $12.60 per col. inch HWY 16 REGIONAL ADS
3 lines - No changes - ad runs in: Burns Lake, Vanderhoof, Prince George, Houston, Smithers, Ft. St. James, Prince Rupert, Terrace, Kitimat, Northern Connector (1 week) ............................... $78.88
BC BEST BUY ADS
25 words- No changes - ad runs one week, all papers covering: Lower Mainland .............$102.28 BCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Interior ..................$124.95 Vancouver Island ...........$119.00 All of the Above .............$299.00 Extra charge for additional words
HAPPY ADS 2 col. x 2â&#x20AC;? or 1 col. x 4â&#x20AC;? To announce birthdays, weddings, births etc ............................ $20.00 Please call if you need more information on any of our classified packages.
ALL ABOVE PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE GST
DEADLINES Thursday: 5:00pm
OUR POLICY
Houston Today reserves the right to edit, revise, classify or reject any classified ad not meeting our standards. No refunds on Classifieds Ads. AGREEMENT - It is agreed by the advertiser requesting space that the liability of the Houston Today (Black Press Group Limited) in the event of failure to publish an advertisement in or the event of an error appearing in the advertisement as published shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for only one incorrect insertion or the portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect or omitted item only, and that there shall be no liability in any event greater than the amount paid for such advertising. All claims of errors in advertising must be received by the publisher within 2 days after the first publication. All advertising is subject to the approval of the publisher. The Houston Today reminds advertisers that under Provincial legislation, no person shall use or circulate any form of application for employment, publish or cause to be published an advertisement in connection with employment or prospective employment, or make any written or verbal inquiry of an applicant that (a) expresses, either directly or indirectly any limitation, specification or preference as to race, religion, colour, sex, martial status, age, ancestry, or place of origin or a person; or (b) requires an applicant to furnish any information concerning race, religion, colour, ancestry, place of origin or political belief. In order to be credited for any mistakes the Houston Today is responsible for, corrections must be made before the second insertion.
INDEX IN BRIEF Family Announcements .......... 001-007 Community Announcements ... 008-076 Children................................ 080-098 Employment .......................... 102-165 Services ............................... 170-387 Pets/Livestock ...................... 453-483 Items for Sale/Wanted .......... 503-595 Real Estate ........................... 603-696 Rentals ................................ 700-757 Transportation ....................... 804-860 Marine.................................. 903-920 Legals ....................................... Legal
HOUSTON & AREA CHURCH DIRECTORY
Announcements
Employment
Employment
Employment
Employment
In Memoriam
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
APPLY NOW: A $2,500 Penny Wise scholarship is available for a woman entering the Journalism Certificate Program at Langara College in Vancouver. Application deadline May 31, 2015. Email to fbula@langara.bc.ca. More information: www.bccommunity news.com/our-programs/ scholarship.
MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit online: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities
Houston United Church 2106 Butler Ave
SERVICES: Sundays at 11a.m. (Kids Sunday School during the service) To contact the church or for pastoral care: Morgan Ryder (250-698-7612 -H) or 250-692-9576 -C) or Marianne Dekker 250-845-2282
Houston Fellowship Baptist Church 3790 C.R. Matthews Rd. Pastor: Larry Ballantyne
Sunday School: 9:45AM Church Service: 11:00AM Everyone Welcome! Phone: 250-845-7810
Houston Canadian Reformed Church SUNDAY SERVICES: 10:00 AM & 2:30 PM Pastor Carl VanDam s.carl. vandam@canrc.org Office Phone: 250-845-3441 ~ Everyone Welcome ~ 3797 Omineca Way, Box 36, Houston, BC
Houston Christian Reformed Church 1959 Goold St., Box 6, Houston 250-845-7578
Pastor Martin Vellekoop ~ Everyone Welcome! ~
Services: 10:00 am & 3:00 pm HOUSTON PENTECOSTAL CHURCH 2024 Riverbank Drive, Box 597, Houston Phone: 250-845-2678 Pastor: Mike McIntyre Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 am Sunday Prayer Meeting: 7:00 pm Sunday School: During the Service
Everyone Welcome
Anglican Church of St. Clement 2324 Butler Ave., Box 599, Houston, BC
Rev. Jacob Worley Phone: 250-845-4940
Services at: 2:00pm Sundays
Guru Nanak Sikh Temple Association Santokh Singh Manhas 250-845-2705
Houston, B.C. V0J lZ0
In Loving Memory Cecil Warren Reynolds Jan. 12, 1912 - May 15, 2003 Dad We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have old days back, when we were all together. But secret tears and loving thoughts, will be with us forever. Lots of Love always, Mary, Marleen, Colleen & Jack
Information AL-ANON Are you affected by someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drinking? Al-Anon meetings are Monday, 7pm at the Houston United Church. Contact number: (250) 8457774.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Meetings are at the Houston United Church, Monday and Thursday at 7:00pm. Contact number is:1-877-644-2266 DO YOU have a disability? Physical or mental. We can help you get up to $40,000 back from the Canadian Government. For details check out our website: disabilitygroupcanada.com or call us today tollfree 1-888-875-4787.
Employment Business Opportunities HIP OR knee replacement? COPD or Arthritic Conditions? The Disability Tax Credit. $1,500 Yearly Tax Credit. $15,000 Lump Sum Refund (on avg) Apply Today! 1-844453-5372.
Career Opportunities
Huckleberry Mines Ltd. is a 19,000 TPD open pit copper molybdenum mine located 120 kilometers south of Houston in west central British Columbia. The mine has been in operation since in September 1997 and closure is planned for 2021. We are currently recruiting for the following position:
5th Street, Houston Industrial Site
Requires a
RECEPTIONIST ) '%& ( !! ! "'& $ % % ) $ ' $ ! * '& % ) %! " $&% !! '" %% %& '%&! $%
Apply in person, with resumĂŠ. !$& & $ $ !$ & &$ &
MILLWRIGHT
Reporting to the Mill Maintenance Supervisor and working closely with other tradesmen and the operating department, the successful applicant will be responsible for maintenance work in the mill, crusher and other areas of the mine. Duties will include planned and preventative maintenance on the SAG mill, ball mills, crusher, conveyor belts, pumps and other equipment. The successful candidate must possess a journeymanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trade qualiĹľcation and have a minimum of Ĺľve years e[perience in an industrial environment. Preference will be given to applicants with mining e[perience and individuals who are also licensed or e[perienced in welding. Good interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this position. Huckleberry Mines is a remote mine where its employees live in a camp environment on their days of work. The Millwright position works a [ schedule days in, days out . :hile at the mine site all meals and accommodations are provided free of charge to employees. Transportation is provided from Houston. Huckleberry Mines Ltd. offers a competitive salary and a full range of beneĹľts including medical, life, disability income and RRSP savings plan. :e thank all applicants for their interest in Huckleberry Mines Ltd., but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 4XDOLĹľHG DSSOLFDQWV FDQ VXEPLW WKHLU UHVXPHV LQ FRQĹľGHQFH WR +XPDQ 5HVRXUFHV 'HSDUWPHQW +XFNOHEHUU\ 0LQHV /WG 3 2 %R[ +RXVWRQ % & 9 - = )D[ (PDLO +5#+XFNOHEHUU\PLQHV FRP
DISTRICT OF HOUSTON (PARKS AND RECREATION)
Temporary Municipal Service Worker I The District of Houston is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Temporary Municipal Service Worker I. Dates: June â&#x20AC;&#x201C; September 2015 Term: Temporary Rate of Pay: $26.60 (2015) Hours of Work: 40 hrs per week Closing Date: May 22, 2015 at 4:00 pm Classification: Union - CUPE Local 2086 Primary Responsibilities: This position involves maintenance and operations in recreation facilities, specifically parks and outdoor recreation areas. Examples of work include turf management, tree and shrub maintenance, minor repairs of parks structures and ensuring the safety of park users. Required Qualifications: t Valid First Aid Certificate t Valid BC Driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Licence, Class 5 t Experience in operating and maintaining various park equipment, including riding mowers and push mowers. Interested persons should direct all applications including a cover letter, resume and references to: District of Houston â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PO Box 370, 3367 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12th Street, Houston, BC V0J 1Z0 Phone: 250-845-2238 | Fax: 250-845-3429 | E-mail: corporate.services@houston.ca The District of Houston thanks all applicants in advance, however only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.
Group Publisher Are you a seasoned Community Newspaper Publisher looking to relocate to the Okanagan? We are looking for a Group Publisher to manage our South Okanagan markets. As a seasoned Publisher, you will achieve financial growth by developing and implementing strategic marketing and sales plans to generate new business and achieve the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business objectives. You will have at least five yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in a sales or business development role, and knowledge or experience in a community newspaper publishing environment. Your success in developing and implementing sales strategies is a result of your entrepreneurial spirit, well developed customer service and communication skills, knowledge of the publishing industry, and extensive business connections. As the largest independent newspaper group with more than 170 titles in print and online, Black Press has operations in British Columbia, Alberta, Washington, Hawaii and Ohio. This is a full-time position with a competitive compensation and benefits package. Qualified applicants should send a resume and covering letter before Friday, May 29th to: Bruce McAuliffe, President Black Press BC South c/o Kelowna Capital News 2495 Enterprise Way, Kelowna, B.C. V1X 7K2 Email: brucem@blackpress.ca
www.blackpress.ca
Houston Today Wednesday, May 20, 2015
www.houston-today.com 17
Employment
Employment
Employment
Services
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Education/Trade Schools
Financial Services
Wanted: to start immediately a
PART TIME PERSON
with sewing skills and also computer competence. Must be able to work Saturdays.
INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR SCHOOL. NO Simulators. In-the-seat training. Real world tasks. Weekly start dates. Job board! Funding options. SignUp online! iheschool.com 1-866-399-3853
Esthetician
Please apply in person with resume.
Pets & Livestock
Pleasant Valley Cleaners 3356 10th Street, Houston
Community Garden Coordinator Houston Link to Learning is looking for a Community Garden Coordinator/gardener for the Community Garden program. The position is part time, temporary, 20 hours per week. Full job description and details can be picked up at the front desk of the Northwest Community College. For further information contact Marian Ells at Houston Link to Learning 845-2727 or e mail manager@houstonlinktolearning.ca Deadline for applications is May 22nd 2015 at 4:00pm.
Esthetician Needed immediately Full or Part time. Competitive Wages & Benefits. Drop resume off at Cloud Nine #2-3830 2nd Ave Smithers or email: jgroves@citywest.ca
Haircare Professionals HAIRSTYLIST required for busy well established salon in Invermere BC. Excellent opportunity for a motivated stylist. Easy to build clientele during busy summer months, lots of walk in traffic. Leave message at 250-342-9863
Medical/Dental MEDICAL Transcriptionists are in huge demand! Train with the leading Medical Transcription school. Learn from home and work from home. Call today. 1-800-466-1535 www.canscribe.com. or email: info@canscribe.com.
Trades, Technical
CORR Home Provider
The CORR Homes program is seeking a skilled individual and/or couple who can provide care in their home in the Smithers and Houston area. Family caregivers are paid contractors, receiving 24-hour on-call support, and ongoing training. Caregivers provide encouragement and support to youth placed in their homes. The emphasis is on building positive relationships and fostering a nurturing family environment. Youth attend school during their time in the program. Qualifications Excellent communication skills, enjoy spending time with young people, understand youth related issues, able to self-assess, have good self-care and coping skills, and available for meetings and training. Please apply with resume and cover letter to: Smithers Community Services Association, 3715 Railway Ave. Smithers Mail to: Box 3759, Smithers, BC V0J 2N0 Fax: (250) 847-3712 Email: general@scsa.ca
Houston & District Chamber of Commerce
Tourism/Visitor Information Counsellor Tour Guide 2015
The Houston & District Chamber of Commerce is seeking a dynamic individual for the position of Tourism/Visitor Information Counsellor. This position requires the counsellor to greet all visitors, provide travel information on our local region as well as the province, makes accommodation reservations, assist with the planning of special events and promote Houston to visitors and locals. These services are provided in person, telephone and via written communication. The successful candidate must have excellent customer service skills, superior telephone skills, be computer literate, and have the ability to multi-task. Proficiency in English, both oral and written is essential. The successful candidate must be charismatic and enjoy interacting with visitors while promoting Houston and surrounding area. They must be familiar and knowledgeable of Houston’s surrounding area such as natural attractions and activities and have a willingness to learn. A second language, having a valid driver’s licence and availability to a vehicle is an asset.
LICENSED LOG Scaler required. A well-established whole log chipping facility located in beautiful Kamloops, BC requires a full time certified log scaler to complement our log yard staff. We offer competitive wages and a benefits package. Applicants applying for this Position must have a Scaler’s Licence. Please email resumes: rcf2007@telus.net or fax to 250-374-9506.
Feed & Hay LOOKING for fields to custom hay and pasture for cattle. Phone:250845-8451
ROUND HAY Bales, barn stored, for sale. 250-846-5855 or 250-882-3083.
Livestock FOR SALE 4 year old Registered Red Angus Bull. Located in the Topley area. More info: (250) 696-3379
Merchandise for Sale
Misc. for Sale SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - Make money & save money with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: www.NorwoodSaw mills.com/400OT or call 1-800566-6899 Ext:400OT. STEEL BUILDINGS. “Spring sales with hot savings!” All steel building models and sizes are now on sale. Get your building deal while it’s hot. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422 www.pioneersteel.ca.
Misc. Wanted Private Collector Looking to Buy Coin Collections, Silver, Antique Native Art, Estates + Chad: 778-281-0030 in town.
Employment
Employment
Auctions
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
AUCTION SALE SATURDAY, JUNE 6, 2015 @ 10:00 A.M. Decker Lake Starland Storage site Hwy 16, 7km west of Burns Lake 8 x 12’ campshack - 6” walls wired - metal clad - treated skids, Gooseneck stock trailer, Older Murray 2 horse trailer, motorcycle trailer, 1999 Chev Cavalier - 4 cyl auto, 1998 Chev Malibu - V6 auto, (4) 15” studded snow tires on rims, Kubota tractor - 18 hp/3pt. Rototiller, core cutting saw 14”, Craftsman 10 hp snowblower, Poulin & Homelite chainsaws, 10 sheets 20’ galv. roof metal (new), treated 4”x4”x10’ timbers, large roll chain link fencing, large roll filter cloth, deep well pump, 2 cases pipe insulation, (2) 325 gal Turtle water tanks, (2) caged water tanks, 10 rolls fire hose (new), small Generator, (2) shop vacs, variety of tools, (2) large commercial yard lights, Herman Nelson construction heater, oil filled heater & electric heaters, Geo stove (kerosene), fire extinguishers, large First Aid cabinets/supplies (2), new helicopter stretcher, large commercial ice cooler, (2) dog carriers, bicycles, snowshoes (3 sets), extension ladder & step ladders. HOUSEHOLD: Teak dining table/6 chairs, Teak coffee table, Inlaid Oak coffee & end table, (3) dining room suites, table/4 chairs, Pine buffet, (2) fold-up cots, futon, Kroehler loveseat, couch & loveseat, orthopedic bed (Queen size), bedroom suite, dressers, (12) padded folding chairs (new), electric stove & propane stove, (2) fridges. ANTIQUES: Beatty wash machine/copper tub, (2) Beatty galv tubs, Singer sewing machine, (2) cross-cut saws. TACK: English saddle with rigging, new saddle pads, blankets, halters, headstalls. Misc household items & more
Sawmill ElEctrician
Fight Back.
Applicant must have extensive knowledge and experience in: • Understanding and interpreting A/B PLC programs • Troubleshooting Allen Bradley MCC’s PLC’s & AC/DC drives • VFD drives and systems • Log and lumber scanning systems USNR, Perceptron and Comact Medical & dental benefits
Employee matched RRSP program
Full time salary position $100,000-$140,000 annually based upon experience. To apply email resume and cover letter to: info@nfpl.ca
Volunteer your time, Selling your energy and home or skills today. business? Advertise here!
For information call Richie at 250-698-7377 or 250-698-7351 Sale conducted by Schmidt Auction
Services
Financial Services
Houses For Sale
GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com
Eavestrough
MODULAR home 2BR/2BA Ready to move to your lot. Over $100K in renos in 2008. New roof, plumbing, wiring, gyproc, fixtures, windows. texased2@gmail.com $75,000
Transportation
Eavestrough
Continuous Aluminum Gutters 6oIÀt )aFia ,nstallation
250-846-5509 w_vh@hotmail.com
Bulkley Valley Eavestroughing Recreational/Sale
Recreational/Sale
Exclusive Camper Dealer of the North RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF RVDA’S TOP 50 DEALERS IN NORTH AMERICA
Please drop off your resume with references and cover letter to the Houston and District Chamber of Commerce (Tourist Information Centre) at 3289 Highway 16, Houston BC Attention: Maureen Czirfusz. Closing Date for job posting will be May 29, 2015. We thank everyone for their application, but only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.
TAX FREE MONEY is available, if you are a homeowner, today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts. We don’t rely on credit, age or income. Call Anytime 1-800-639-2274 or 604-430-1498. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca
Merchandise for Sale
150 Mile House | 250 296 4411 DL#6146
www.chemorv.ca
Quesnel | 250 747 4451 DL#6147
Off Road Vehicles LOOKING for job in general labour, dispatching and logistics, send your resume to recruit@wtgiftz.com. Your resume will be screened and you will be contacted.
Recreational/Sale 2007 INNSBRUCK Supreme 26RLS travel trailer. New awning and 2 new 6 volt batteries 2014, excellent condition. $12,000.00 obo Phone Stuart at (250) 692-7565
Boats WANTED Red Urchin lease. Also 37’ Salmon to lease/buy/trade for C. 250-218-9947 wd95@shaw.ca
I<>@JK<I KF;8P 7D: H;9;?L;
=H;7J :;7BI ED IJK<< JE :E" FB79;I JE ;7J 7D: J>?D=I JE I;; Register Online at www.bcdailydeals.com
BCDaily
Houston Today offers a special advertising rate for local houses and businesses for sale. for only...
99
$
+ GST
You get a 2 column x 2" display ad (includes photo)
RUNS 10 WEEKS!! Sample: LOOKING TO BUY A HOUSE WITH THE UP-GRADES DONE, READY TO MOVE IN WELL WE HAVE THE HOUSE FOR YOU...
E L P
M A S
Four bedroom 2 bathroom house located close to elementary and high school. Numerous upgrades include kitchen, bathrooms, windows, and vinyl siding over two inches of blue Styrofoam insulation. Open floor plan and good room sizes, attached garage. Back yard has plenty of play room. Large outside shed to store your toys in. Must be viewed to be appreciated. For appointment to view
Get results - place your ad today!
Phone: 250 845-2890
Email: advertising@houston-today.com
18 www.houston-today.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2015 Houston Today
HOUSTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR BEAUTY, WARMTH & VALUE! • Extremely well kept 1997 mobile with a large addition on just under half an acre! • 3 bedrooms, vaulted ceilings in the spacious country kitchen and a bright cozy living room. Lots of cabinets and a built-in china cabinet. • Master is 10’8 X 15’7 and has a 2 piece en suite. • Pellet stove in the porch. Freshly painted, new tile floors in the entrance, hall and kitchen. Sundeck, greenhouse, small detached garage and a storage shed as well. RV parking, backyard access, fenced yard. • Very private setting. All appliances included.
119,900
$
FRAME THE VIEW! • Panoramic mountain and valley views from this well-kept 4 bedroom home on just over 5 acres and minutes from town! • Floor to ceiling windows in the living/dining room. • Garden doors off the master to a sundeck with a hot tub. • Recent updates include new countertops in the kitchen and tile backsplash as well as in the bathrooms, laminate floors, exterior painted, deck re-done & water filtration system. Covered deck off the kitchen. • Craft/hobby room on the main with a sink and lots of cupboards and its own entrance. Family room and 2 bedrooms in the above ground basement, nice sized boot room. Covered basement entry and attached/ workshop/tool storage. • Beautifully landscaped with fenced/raised garden beds.
269,900
REDUCED TO: $
Houston Public Library Events: Mark Zagwyn Photography: (Passport Photo Day!) Fri., May 22 from noon to 4:30 p.m. Teddy Anderson: world renowned Hoop Dancer extraordinaire! Come out and watch his energetic and colourful performance full of stories that will warm your heart. Join us at the Amphitheater in Jamie Baxter Park on Saturday, May 23rd at 1:30PM. Lego Day: (for kids 8 to 12) Thurs., May 28: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. For more info please contact the library @250-845-2256. Cash for Canadian Cancer Society Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser Monday June 1 Community Hall between 5 and 8 pm. Dinner includes spaghetti (vegan and gluten-free options), salad, tea/coffee or juice and free dessert if you wear yellow. Licensed for beer and wine. Incredible silent auction and raffle. Tickets $15 or $10 for 10 & under at Chamber of Commerce or from Debi Smith 845-7793. VIP tickets for donations $100 and up. Perennial Plant Sale - Bulkley Valley Genealogical Society Saturday, May 23: 9:00 a.m. to noon. Main Street & Hwy 16 Smithers. If you are dividing perennials, splitting shrugs, thinning flowers or halting the spread of berry patches, please save your spares for this sale. If you need help digging up your plants or to arrange pick-up by May 20, call: Marie Kaszas 250-845-2514. Houston Senior Citizens Spring Lunch – Plant and Bake Sale Thurs. May 28: 11-1 – Senior Centre. Meeting to Follow. Donations of baking and plants always appreciated.
The MS WALK Saturday May 30 from A&W Houston. Registration 10:30 a.m. & Walk at 11:00. Support the MS Society of Canada research and services for people with Multiple Sclerosis. mssociety.ca for more info or phone 250-845-7859. Houston needs linesmen & ref’s for the upcoming BV Soccer season - If interested pls call Henry Barendregt @ 845-4043. Also looking for an Assistant for co-ordinating Ref’ing in Houston, this would be your volunteer hrs for the season. Houston’s “Love by the Bowl” Soup Kitchen serving healthy homemade soups in two different seatings, 11:00 -12:00 and 12:00 -1:00 on Wed. Buck Flats Community Development Society, meets every 3rd Sat. evening at 6pm at Andy Pollack’s house (17642) on Buck Flats Rd. All Buck Flats residents are welcome to attend, we discuss issues concerning the Buck flats area. Please call Chris Newell at 250-845-3564 for more info. Activities for Seniors in Houston at the Seniors Centre: Carpet Bowling Tues. & Fri. 1:00 PM • Floor Curling Mon. 1:00 PM • Pool any afternoon to schedule call; Adrian-250-845-2338 • Breakfastsfirst Sat. of the month, community invited. • Soup and Sandwich luncheon- third Thurs. of the month. Community invited. At Pleasant Valley Village, 3603 11th St.: Senior Exercise, Mon. & Fri 10:00 AM • Cards Mon. & Thurs. 7:00 PM. At the Bowling Alley: Seniors bowling Wed. 1:30 PM. At the Houston Swimming Pool: Aquafit, Mon., Wed. & Fri. 9-10 AM. At the Legion: Seniors darts and light lunch Thursdays 11a.m. - 2 p.m.
CREDIT UNION ONE OF A KIND!
249,900
$
ALL THIS CAN BE YOURS!
152,000
REDUCED TO: $
The Hometown Experts with a World of Experience®
Lia Long 250-845-1147
Re/Max Houston
2436 Poulton Ave., Houston, BC e-mail: remaxhou@telus.net Locally owned and operated
Call 250-845-7325 www.realtor.ca
Since May 1941, Bulkley Valley Credit Union has been building a solid financial institution that members from Burns Lake to the Hazeltons have grown to rely on. People helping people is how we began and we strive to remain people-oriented, both in our financial services and through direct involvement with our communities. We are dedicated to local decision-making and local control, key factors in providing the kinds of services that meet the financial needs of individuals and business members alike.
www.bvcu.com
• Very well kept 3 bedroom home located on the popular Jewel Road, close to schools. • Brand new kitchen features cream shaker cabinets and new appliances as well as an eating bar. Very open dining/living room concept. • New flooring throughout the main. • Updated bathroom, laundry on the main. • Basement features a huge, bright rec-room as well as a spacious games room, 3 piece bath, storage and another bedroom. • Carport, mostly fenced yard, paved drive, RV parking. • You better check this one out! Call Lia to view 250-845-1147.
www.remaxhouston.ca
The Houston Legion Branch 249: Meeting: 2nd Monday of the month is Executive, 4th Monday is General Meeting.
TOPLEY Structural Firefighting/Hwy Rescue. Interested? Topley Volunteer Fire Dept. is accepting applications. No experience necessary please contact Byron - F/C 250-696-3348 or come to a Fire Practice Thurs @ 19:00 hrs (7pm). Topley Fire Protection Society meetings every second Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm.
GRANISLE The Granisle and District Senior Citizens meet every second and fourth Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at the Seniors Centre. Granisle Volunteer Fire Department meetings & fire practices every Tues., 7:00pm at the Fire Hall. Granisle Church of the Way services are Sunday, 11:00am.
Community Calendar proudly sponsored by
Bulkley Valley • Spacious 1720 square foot custom build rancher on a corner lot. • 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Master bedroom features a dressing area, en suite and walk in closet as well as patio doors to a patio. • Beautiful rock fireplace, very open floor plan with lots of natural light! • Formal dining room with great mountain views! • Gorgeous new flooring in kitchen, dining, hallway and living room. • Garage, underground sprinkler system, concrete drive, storage shed. • All appliances and window blinds included! • Call Lia to view. 250-845-1147.
Coffee Break - an Interactive Women’s Bible Study meet every Wed. morning from 9:30-11:00 at the Houston Christian Reformed Church, 1959 Goold Road. Childcare is provided. For more info call Margaret: 845-2348, Darlene 845-7438, Evelyn 696-3229.
You paid how much!?
#ShouldaUsedHouston
HOUSTON & DISTRICT BRANCH 2365 Copeland Ave. P.O. Box 1480, Houston Phone: 250-845-7117
Houston Today
www.houston-today.com
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
COMMUNITY PHOTO FEATURE
19
Students engage community Jackie Lieuwen photos/ Houston Today
Twain Sullivan Elementary school kindergarten students toured the Fire Hall and RCMP Detachment last Wednesday. Top right corner: Jenny, a kindergarten student from Twain Sullivan Elementary checks out the RCMP cruiser with Constable Melissa Wong. Right: Kendra and Lainie try out the fire fighting gear. Above: Alyvia, Kendra, Jordan, Hana and Brooklyn break into big smiles as they check out a Houston fire engine.
Twain Sullivan School hosted Jump Rope for Heart last Thursday. With 36 students involved in the program, the school raised almost $4,000 for the cause. Two students, Tim Tiessen and Tina Boucher, got brand new bikes for raising over $500. Above left: Kaitlyn and Karsyn hula hoop as part of the Jump Rope for Heart activities. Above: Max, Terance and Geoffrey jump together. Left: Kindergarten students gather excitedly by the RCMP cruiser. L-R are Autumn, Mattea, Kaelynn, Jenny, Emily, Everett, William, Sarah, Harpaul, Haylo, Chyanne, David and teacher Mrs. Lauren Rutley.
20
www.houston-today.com
Houston Today
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
May 20-26, 2015
NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED!
Your Pantry Fill Specialists
PR O D U C E
M E AT
F E ATU R E D
Fresh Blueberries
Coca-Cola or Pepsi Products 12x355ml
4
2 for
510 gram
99
Chicken Breasts Superpack Boneless Skinless, 11.00/kg
8
88
4
99
Plus Deposit, Plus Eco-Fee
Western Family Bacon
Munchies Snack Mix
Whole Watermelon
4
1.1 kg
1.5 lb
Sizes 2 thru 6
2 varieties, 375 g
5
99
99
Grape Tomatoes
2 for
4
5
00
Western Family Regular Wieners
Pampers Diapers
450g
19
99
/lb
99
2 for
5
00
G R E AT BA R G A I N S Club House Barbecue Sauces Assorted Varieties, 473 ml
2 for
5
00
Farkay Steam Fried Noodles or Chinese Style, 397 g
2 for
300
O’Tasty Dumplings Assorted Varieties, 567 g
399
Assorted Candy Tubs Assorted Varieties 300-700 g
3
99
Softsoap Bodywash Variety Pack, 3x532 ml
8
99
Club House Montreal Steak Spice
Heinz Squeeze Ketchup
11
2 for
China Lily Soya Sauce
Western Family Water Chestnuts or Bamboo Shoots,
Minute Rice Jumbo
.99
3 kg
899
Assorted Varieties 650 g
35.25kg
825 gram
99
483 ml
2 for
500
Fruttare Fruit & Milk Bars Assorted Varieties, 4x80 ml
4
99
Nestea Iced Tea
or Fruitopia Plus Deposit Plus Eco-Fee 12x695 ml
8
99
Pantene Shampoo 1.18 litre
999
750 ml or 1 litre
6
98
227 ml
Western Family Yogurt
2 for
5
00
Western Family Marshmallows
Hellmann’s Olive Oil Mayonnaise 890 ml
299 Premier Cave Aged Gruyere
1599/lb Post Honeycombs
2 Varieties, 1.36 kg
or Selected Varieties 510-595 g
Resolve Stain Remover Refill
Charmin Bathroom Tissue
899
1999
4
99
2.45 litre
3
99
36 roll
Mon. to Thurs. 8 am - 7 pm • Fri. 8 am - 8 pm • Sat. 8 am - 6 pm • Sun. 9 am - 6 pm 3302 Highway 16 Smithers, BC • (250) 847-3313 • 1 (800) 579-3313 • bulkleyvalleywholesale.com