Smithers Interior News, January 13, 2016 by Black Press Media Group

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103 Days To Go

A moose skeleton reaches completion after five years of work. Smithers resident Bill Jex spent the years macerating, cleaning, drying and assembling the skeleton. The masterpiece now stands in his garage as he tries to find it a new home. Story, A18. Xuyun Zeng photo

Huckleberry Mine Kitimat LNG facility suspends pit operations granted key permit By Chris Gareau Smithers/Interior News

Imperial Metals Corporation has confirmed Huckleberry Mine has suspended pit operations, laying off 100 of its 260 employees. The balance of its workforce will continue milling stockpiled ore. The mine 130 kilometres south of Smithers laid off 20 employees a month ago in an effort to reduce costs as copper prices have plummeted last year due to a decline in world demand. Huckleberry chief operating officer Randall Thompson told Black Press at the time that more layoffs were not expected for the next few weeks. Huckleberry spokesperson and Imperial Metals vice-president of corporate affairs Steve Robertson said the 120 people laid off are pit workers, including truck drivers and drillers.

“I think the point to be made here is that Huckleberry still has value. There’s ore at depth that we would look forward to in future years in the mine plant, and it doesn’t make any sense to pursue that at a loss at this time,” said Robertson. “We’re trying to preserve that resource for some time in the future when the mine can be operated at a profit.” Those laid off are being put on a call back list for rehiring on basis of seniority when prices improve. Imperial holds a 50 per cent interest in Huckleberry Mines Ltd. It also owns the Red Chris and Mount Polley copper/gold mines in B.C. Robertson said the other two B.C. mines would remain operating. Red Chris just opened in 2015 south of Dease Lake, and Mount Polley reopened last summer after a tailings pond breach in the Cariboo region. See JOBS on A9

Black Press

LNG Canada is celebrating a notable milestone in their efforts to bring their liquefied natural gas project to fruition in Kitimat. The company announced last Tuesday that the B.C. Oil and Gas Commission has granted them a facility permit which gives the company the go-ahead on construction and operation based on their technical plans. This is separate from the provincial government’s environmental review, which granted them an environmental certificate last year.

This does not mean the company has made a final investment decision to actually build the project, merely that it has a key permit in place should they move ahead. Receiving this permit is notable because the company says it is the first LNG project in B.C. which has received such a permit. “We have made excellent progress in the past two years, achieving a number of critical milestones,” said Andy Calitz, CEO of LNG Canada. “Receiving our LNG Facility Permit could not have been achieved without the important input we received from the Haisla Nation and the local community of Kitimat.” See PIPELINE on A5

BUSINESS SURVEY RESULTS RELEASED Business is good, says the survey, but labour crunch needs work.

CANYON CREEK NEEDS VOLUNTEERS Managers of the ski area want to form a society to oversee maintenance.

BV NATURALISTS GO BIRD COUNTING The Naturalists report spotting 45 species at their Jan. 3 Christmas bird count event.

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SPORTS/A11

COMMUNITY/A13

Friday Only! Greenworks Dish Tablets see last page in A

By Cameron Orr and Chris Gareau

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The Interior News

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

N EWS

Northern Health seeks to replace Bulkley Valley’s only pediatrician By Chris Gareau

an additional pediatrician who’s been in the books for Terrace for quite a while, who’ll be willing also if needed — by that time hopefully not — to do some consulting in the Bulkley Valley as well,” explained Appleton. Advertising, posting in Health Match BC, and a recruitment team attending doctors conferences and talking to residents in pediatrics are out to draw someone, which Appleton does not believe should be difficult once a potential hire visits the area. “It sells itself. I’ve been noticing over the last couple Dr. Clarence Moisey celebrating retirement. Contributed photo of years how many [general practitioners] and specialists big issue at all.” have expressed an interest in the Appleton did add that Dr. Moisey Northwest largely from a lifestyle point was a special kind of doctor for over 30 of view,” said Appleton. years who will be missed. “I’m finding we’re getting on the “I’m sure the docs in Smithers map for recruitment for that particular will tell you this: available 24/7,” said reason. And as you know, Smithers is Appleton. always very popular with physicians. “He’s also been involved in Northern You’ve probably got more physicians Health politics, on a lot of committees. per head than any other community in He’ll be missed and I wish him well in the Northwest. Selling Smithers is not a his retirement.”

Smithers/Interior News

A big hole has been left by the departure of Bulkley Valley’s longtime pediatrician Dr. Clarence Moisey. Dr. Moisey retired as of Dec. 31 after winding down his work at the end of last year for health reasons. Northern Health Authority is now actively looking to hire another pediatrician to work out of Smithers. “We’ve always kept a place open for a pediatrician. He was semi-retired for a while, so we’ve been keeping our ears open, if you like, for a possible replacement,” said northwest medical director for Northern Health Dr. Geoff Appleton. Child patients will not be completely without a specialist while recruiting is being done. Dr. Marie Hay will be coming out from Prince George as a visiting consultant at least once per month, according to Appleton. There is also the option of driving to Terrace, where there will soon be three pediatricians. “By the summer, we’re hoping to have

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The Interior News

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

N EWS Houston wins snowmobiling award By Xuyun Zeng Houston/Interior News

Houston and Yorkton, Sask. will both receive the title of Western Canada’s best snowmobiling town in SnoRiders magazine’s Sledtown Showdown. Although Houston received 66 per cent of 42,917 votes, a technical problem led to the magazine’s decision to award the crown to both towns. “We ran into an unexpected situation and decided to award both finalists a trophy,” said publisher Keith Powell in a statement. “I wanted to personally thank everyone in Houston and give you a heads up that we detected a system failure in our thirdparty voting system mid-way through round six.” “We have decided to be fair to all and we will award a trophy to both Houston and Yorkton.” Powell continues that some voters “were locked out and unable to vote,” whereas “others started to report an unusually high number of

votes being registered.” “We will work closely with our third party voting provider for next year’s SledTown ShowDown, so we can avoid any possible voting irregularities or glitches in the future,” said Powell. Houston Snowmobile Club will receive a trophy and a $500 certificate for advertising in the magazine. Houston will also receive “front page exposure” in the magazine and online. “I feel it’s really good for Houston, that it’s put us on the map and opened up our riding areas, it’s good publicity,” said Houston Snowmobile Club president Shea Long. Long did not expect Houston to go this far into the competition when he first entered Houston into the competition. “I didn’t expect us to be winning it a bunch of months later,” said Long. “Yeah, there’s a lot of big challengers like Valemount and Sicamous and all over down there.” “The fact that we won is pretty impressive, kind of shows how good a

community we have.” Regarding the voting problems, Long empathizes with SnoRiders. “I see where SnoRiders is coming from,” said Long. “What’s fair is fair. I know there’s [43,000] votes at the end, and when you have a town of 3,000 people you’re never going to have [43,000] votes. I don’t care if the whole of B.C. gets together.” Coun. Jonathan Van Barneveld felt that sharing the award with Yorkton feels “bittersweet.” “I hope we can glean some opportunities from having that distinction and getting more of a profile for Houston,” he said. Chamber of Commerce manager Maureen Czirfusz also sees this award presenting an opportunity. “It has highlighted the snowmobiling area and we are going to continue to highlight it because now eyes are upon us at what amazing sledding we have, so we’re just going to go with the opportunity and go forward,” she said. To drive the vote for Houston, Czirfusz has

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Houston’s snowmobile club will receive this trophy.

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worked hard to get the word out. “We put it out in our newsletter and we put it out on our Facebook page, and we also emailed the other Chambers within the province of British Columbia and asked if they would share it with their members and have the rest of the province vote for us as well,” said Czirfusz. Czirfusz spoke with a conciliatory tone when asked about sharing the award with Yorkton. “Because of a computer glitch, it was the best thing they could have done,” she said.

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CONGRATULATIONS! On January 1, 2016, Greg VanderGaag acquired John Bakker's interest in the accounting partnership of VanderGaag & Bakker, Chartered Professional Accountants. John has been an active partner for the past 19 years and is looking forward to a well deserved period of retirement. However, before actually retiring he will be with the firm through the 2016 tax season and will officially retire on May 31, 2016. We thank him for his years of service and dedication to the firm, staff and clients of VanderGaag & Bakker. We also would like to wish him all the best in his upcoming retirement and future interests. Greg has been with the firm since August 2013. He has been involved in the accounting profession since 2003 and earned his Chartered Accountant designation in 2010. We welcome him as partner and wish him future success. The firm will continue to operate under the name of VanderGaag and Bakker, CPAs. From the staff and partners of VanderGaag & Bakker, CPAs

Order left to right: Willy VanderGaag, Greg VanderGaag, John Bakker

Order left to right: Jessica Bakker, Truus Meima, Gord Stavast, Val Tolton, Debbie Judzentis, John Bakker, Arlene Pans, Willy VanderGaag, Greg VanderGaag, Cindy White, Troy Van Damme, Missing: Emily McCreesh & Montana Stoffels

www.bvcga.com | 1076 Main St, Smithers, BC V0J 2N0 | Phone:(250) 847-2257

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Wednesday, January 13, 2016

N EWS

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Alex Cuba performs at Minerals North after Terry O’Reilly’s speech.

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Marketing guru at Minerals North By Chris Gareau Smithers/Interior News

Minerals North 2016’s keynote speaker for its conference this May is someone many in the mining industry might hope has big ideas on how to adapt in a time of plummeting mineral prices. Award-winning ad man and CBC Radio host Terry O’Reilly has been in the marketing business for decades, founding his own company Pirate Radio & Television in 1990 before becoming host of the popular radio show Under the Influence, follow-up to Age of Persuasion, which iTunes chose as best new podcast of 2011. “Our conference is focused on innovation. That’s our theme, and we know that he’s known

for his creativity, and unique and innovative ideas,” said Minerals North co-chair Danielle Smyth. “The industry is not in the best place at the moment ... we need someone who could really provide some motivation and talk about big ideas, and how we can really change perception and behaviour in a time when we need to think outside the box.” Smyth added that O’Reilly has agreed to tailor his speech to what is happening in B.C. mining. “We have a meeting scheduled with him in early February, and we’re going to sit down and talk through what it is that he’ll speak to,” said Smyth. O’Reilly will be giving a speech before Alex Cuba entertains industry workers in Smithers May 19. Telkwa is co-hosting the conference.

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Startup Smithers is an informal group of entrepreneurs who are working towards building a stronger entrepreneurial culture in our town. We are one of the original 15 startup communities in Canada. There are 20 communities across Canada, a number which is growing as more communities sign on. Other Startup Communities in Canada are cities like Toronto, Halifax, Calgary, and Saskatoon. What separates Smithers from the rest of the other Startup Canada communities is that we are the only small town. We are by far the smallest community involved, and that’s a good thing! Being the smallest differentiates Smithers and makes an example not only to other communities in Canada, but also internationally. Allan Stroet, Economic Development Officer

Admission: Adults $8.00 Seniors & Children $5.00 at the Door.

Startup Smithers puts our community on the international entrepreneurship map. Startup Canada representatives recently attended a global entrepreneurship conference in Mexico and use Smithers as their “go to” community as an example of how building or reinforcing an entrepreneurial culture can work in any community. The result is that Smithers gets directly marketed to existing and potential entrepreneurs and partners around the world from a third party organization. This is invaluable promotion of our community. Entrepreneurship is what Smithers does very well. Trying new things, wondering “what if”, exploring potential opportunities, and deciding “I can do that” improves the economic health of our community. Smithers should be proud to say that we are on the world map of entrepreneurship.

The Interior News

www.interior-news.com

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

N EWS

Coastal GasLink hopes to build pipeline in 2016

From KITIMAT on Front The permit does include 30 conditions. They include the maximum production levels of the facility, management plans for on-site combustion of waste gas (including notification plans for the surrounding community for any flaring), and noise mitigation. The company says they still have to finalize their engineering and cost estimates for the project, deal with labour supply and some further regulatory approvals before a final investment decision can be made. Coastal GasLink hopes to build in 2016 TransCanada’s Coastal GasLink pipeline would bring the natural gas to Kitimat from Dawson Creek. The 670-kilometre route passes south of the Bulkley Valley, over the Morice River. Spokesperson Shela Shapiro said in an email that the awarding of the permit was another positive step forward. “We’re working with LNGC to assist them towards their goal of making a final investment decision in 2016, and our plan is to begin construction after that. Also at this point, we’re awaiting a few permits from BC O&GC which we anticipate soon,” wrote Shapiro. Coastal GasLink expects between 2,0002,500 jobs to be created during construction. Once prime contractors were chosen, tours of northern B.C. would be made to promote local sub-contracting and employment. A barrier to the pipeline is the Unist’ot’en camp south of Houston. Run by members of the Wet’suwet’en Dark House, it was set up as a blockade near the route meant to stop Enbridge’s proposed Northern Gateway oil pipeline several years ago. It has now expanded with a healing centre for members and supporters, with its mandate also broadened to include all LNG pipelines. While the original proposed route did not

St. Joseph's Catholic School Kindergarten Registration

We are a family-centered school which offers: • •

Complete BC Ministry of Education K – 7 Curriculum K – 7 religion program which focuses on Christian values K – 7 French Music instruction Extra-curricular sports and activities Weekly healthy choices hot lunch program An After School Program, open to everyone An emphasis on being S.H.A.R.P. – Safe, Helpful, Accountable, Respectful and Positive.

directly cross the camp, it and the proposed revised route north of the Morice River watershed • brings the pipeline through Dark House territory. • Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chief Na’Moks (John • Ridsdale) has said that traditional rules give the • Dark House decision-making power over its own • territory. • “We continue to diligently pursue engagement with Dark House, and we’d prefer to talk with them in a meaningful way in an effort to address concerns. We respect the rights of individuals Registration is January 18th to the 22nd for school family siblings and to peacefully express their point-of-view,” said Catholic parish families, January 25th to 29th for St. Joseph’s Pre-K famShapiro. ilies. Registration opens to the public on a first-come, first-served basis Coastal GasLink has said all the First Nations on February 10th, starting at 9 am. Children must be 5 years old on or along the route have signed agreements or are in before Dec. 31, 2016. All registrations require an appointment. Please call discussions with TransCanada, with the exception of the school at 250-847-9414 on the appropriate dates as outlined above. Dark House. The company has also received letters of support from nine local governments and 13 chambers of commerce, including the Houston and District and Smithers District chambers of commerce, and the To list your nonprofit coming events please drop off your listing at The Interior News, 3764 Broadway Ave., fax us at 250-847-2995, or email laura@interior-news.com. More information is available through our Online District of Houston. “Supporting this Community Calendar at www.interior-news.com. Deadline for submissions is Fridays at noon. Maximum 25 project doesn’t mean words. Limited space is available. We regret we cannot accept items over the phone. choosing between TEENS & TWEENS @ Smithers Public Library. Smithers Tai Chi Players. Tuesdays and Thursdays. economics and Friday, Jan. 8 & 22, 6-8:45 p.m. Dungeons & Dragons. Come learn Yang-style tai chi and qigong. Friday, Jan. 15, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Magic: The Gathering. smitherstaichi@gmail.com or 250-847-5091. environment; nor does Friday, Jan. 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Minecraft. BV Genealogical Society meets the last Tuesday every it mean sacrificing a Winter Exhibits at the BV Museum. Check out our month, Sunshine Inn meeting room, 7 p.m. Guest traditional way of life. newest exhibits: Skating Though History, Pre-Emption speakers and programs are presented to assist family Active participation in 1915, and our featured Artifact of the Month. We also root researchers. All welcome. projects like Coastal have a scavenger hunt for kids. Admission is always Evelyn Community Association meetings first Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m., Evelyn Hall. New GasLink provides free! Hours available on Facebook. Care, Wednesdays 15 7 p.m. from Jan. 13 - members welcome. an opportunity for Divorce Apr. 6 at Smithers CRC (4035 Walnut Dr.). DropMeat Draws every Friday 6-7 p.m. and aboriginals to provide ins are welcome. A weekly group for those who are Legion Saturday 3-4:30 p.m. Everyone welcome. input into the project separated or divorced that aims to provide practical Free Adult One-on-One Tutoring for Math, English, and participate in skills info & support to navigate a difficult time. divorcecare.org. GED, driving and more. Visit SCSA or 250-847-9515. training, contracts and Ground 2 Griddle Neighbourhood Kitchen Tuesdays Brown Bag Lunch Thursday, Jan. 14, noon, Smithers jobs, and long-term 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., St. James Anglican Church Hall. Healthy Living Centre. Dr. Don Chinnick talking about SCSA 250-847-9515 to join this free life skills literacy Understanding Pain and Body Function. 250-877-4424. financial benefits for program. Childcare provided. their communities,” said BV Toastmasters Club meets every second and ElderCollege You and the Power of Community Radio Mondays, Feb. 1-29, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., NWCC. Learn the Shapiro. fourth Monday, 7-8:55 p.m., Smithers NWCC

Community Calendar

campus, Room 109. linden_buhr@hotmail.com. Sep. to Jun.

basics of radio programming with the help of CICK 93.9 FM, Smithers Community Radio. 250-847-4461. tfisher@nwcc.bc.ca.

BULKLEY VALLEY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL “…a view of life and crea�on that is centred in God.”

ABCFP Suspends Member Mr. Brian Stamp of Prince George has been suspended from the Association of BC Forest Professionals for a period of two months ending on March 7, 2016. Mr. Stamp is not allowed to practise forestry or use the title Registered Forest Technologist (RFT) until the suspension has ended.

Open House Evening Meet our principals, teaching staﬀ and other parents and nd out about what makes Chris�an educa�on unique. We look forward to mee�ng you!

Tuesday, February 9 · 7 – 8 pm BVCS CAMPUS Ҋ 3575 14TH AVENUE, SMITHERS

Kindergarten Registra�on Day

FEBRUARY 12

Mr. Stamp was suspended for submitting false declarations of his indictable offense status over a period of eight years. More details can be found on the ABCFP’s website (www.abcfp.ca) in the Complaints and Discipline section.

602-1281 West Georgia Street Vancouver, BC V6E 3J7 Phone: 604.687.8027 Fax: 604.687.3264 E-mail: info@abcfp.ca

www.bvcs.ca · 250-847-4238 Kindergarten open house ad.indd 2

2016-01-08 4:27 PM

O PINIONS

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The Interior News

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Published by Black Press Ltd. 3764 Broadway Avenue, Smithers BC V0J 2N0

2010

Web poll

Publisher Grant Harris, Editor Chris Gareau CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2014

B.C. Minister of Natural Gas Development Rich Coleman says the LNG industry is poised for a monumental year in 2016. After delays on multiple projects, do you believe this is the year construction begins?

No 62%

Yes 38%

New Year brings new opportunities

GUEST VIEW Minister Mike Bernier

his past fall, B.C. students and teachers continued to prepare for success in a changing world as classrooms began phasing in new curriculum that will make B.C.’s worldleading education system even better.

The new curriculum still focuses on the basics — reading, writing and arithmetic. But those are being taught in a way that students also learn the collaboration, critical thinking and communications skills they need to succeed in our changing world. Teachers, students and parents all benefit when learning becomes more flexible. If your child is passionate about space travel, starting a business or producing videos, teachers can tap into that passion and help students build their learning around it. Our education system is already recognized as one of the top three internationally. Why do we need to change? In part, because technology is transforming the way we live and it’s changing the way kids learn. With information at the press of a button, the education system that worked for us years ago is not as effective as it used to be for today’s young learners. With labour stability in the classroom, parents expect us to focus on making sure their children have the skills they

need to thrive in college, university and the workplace. We continue to work with the BC Teachers’ Federation and other educational partners to phase in new curriculum and support teachers. What changes can you expect to see? For one, students are increasingly learning by doing, with more opportunities for handson experience. There is also new content, such as Aboriginal perspectives weaved throughout all grade levels and updated standards in math and sciences. I’ve toured many schools throughout the province and it’s encouraging to see innovative teachers and students already benefiting from the new curriculum, for example: * Entrepreneurial high school students holding a fundraising campaign to purchase virtual reality technology. Their first project? A virtual reality roller coaster. * Cafeterias being used as collaborative classrooms as students teach each other how to code for apps and computer programs — proving learning happens anywhere, any time.

InteriorNEWS THE

Serving Smithers, the Bulkley Valley, the Hazeltons and District, Houston and District, and published on Wednesday of each week at 3764 Broadway Avenue, Smithers, B.C. V0J 2N0 Copyright number 321634. Stories, photographs, illustrations, designs and type styles in The Interior News are the property of the copyright holders, its illustrations repo services and advertising agencies. Reproduction in whole or in part, without written permission, is specifically prohibited. Authorized as second-class mail by the Post Office Department, Ottawa, and for payment of postage in cash. PM40007014

* A history class digging trenches to help understand a soldier’s experience during the First World War. In September 2016, K-9 curriculum will move beyond this year’s introduction and be implemented in all B.C. school districts. Also, this coming September the new Grades 10-to-12 curriculum will be available for teachers to use on an optional basis. In September 2017, the full K-12 curriculum will be in place. We all have a role to play — parents, teachers, and education partners. The work we do today will have a lasting effect for decades. Imagine what today’s students could be doing five, 10, 20 years from now. The curriculum is changing so young people get the best education possible, so they in turn can help support growing communities. B.C.’s continued strong, economic growth and fiscal discipline means that we can return dividends that make a real difference for B.C. students and parents. Mike Bernier is the British Columbia Minister of Education.

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The Interior News 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

The Interior News

www.interior-news.com

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

L ETTERS Fletcher needs reality check Editor: In last Wednesday’s Guest View, Tom Fletcher implies that Harper lost the election because of a liberal leaning press. He either has a selective memory or lost his mind altogether. Remember the last time the Liberals were in power how the media, including the CBC, destroyed the Liberals over the sponsorship scandal? Next, he blames the federal civil service. After muzzling scientists, slashing Stats Canada in order to design policies based on ideology rather than facts and science, no wonder they were not in support of the Harper government. The niqab controversy, the Gestapo-style telephone snitch line where so-called barbaric practices could be reported, and the rally with the laughing stock of the world Fords, really showed that the Harper government was out of touch with mainstream Canadians. Those efforts might have got some traction in the U.S., but not in Canada. And now, while I’m at it, let us finally put to rest once and for all the myth that Conservative governments are better fiscal managers than Liberal governments. The Liberals started the mess in 1974 with Trudeau senior. At that point our national debt was at a modest $21 billion. (For those readers who are interested to know what took place in 1974, just Google Bank of Canada 1974.) Under the Conservative Mulroney government, the debt continued to rise at the same steep rate and peaked at about $600 billion by 1992. The Chretien Liberal government from 1993 to 2003 managed to decrease our national debt by $100 billion by imposing deep cuts to federal programs and passed a $10 billion budget surplus to the Harper government. Now, as everyone knows, balanced budget or not, Harper managed to increase our national debt by over $100 billion while at the same time making deep cuts to various departments, especially the environment. These are facts everyone can verify easily. Wendel Imhof Smithers

Thank-you Smithers

about that. Oh! I know you have been frustrated with me. This whole experience has been an awful time. It has gone on way too far and I hope this is the end. Thank-you to all of you who have supported me. Best wishes for 2016. Jacqueline Koldyk Smithers

Relief at pro-life letter Editor: My sincere thanks to Clifford Yuen for his pro-life letter Love Everybody of Dec. 23. This appears to have been written from the point of view of someone who understands that he lives in a modern secular democracy where respecting our differences is a basic civic responsibility. As the majority of prolife letters to the editor over the last 30 years have not been based on that principle, you may imagine my surprise and relief. Mr. Yuen claims that the pro-life movement is misunderstood and maligned with a “broad brush” approach and assures us that this is neither fair nor accurate. While I am happy to learn that he himself is not opposed to any and all abortions regardless of circumstances, would not prefer to see abortion back in the criminal code, and feels no need to be judgmental towards women who choose abortion, this is unfortunately not true of many pro-lifers in the Bulkley Valley, judging by their statements in print and on signage. And Clifford, if you “do not know anybody personally” with these more extreme views, I don’t think you’ve been listening. We can certainly agree that the repeated vandalism of pro-life billboards, (regardless of whether their message is respectful or misleading and offensive) is a failure to respect free speech. And the next time I read a pro-life missive telling me that having an abortion means the person will A: burn in hell, B: inevitably spend the rest of her life lamenting in sackcloth and ashes and /or C: be the lucky recipient of a God-sent punitive visitation of breast cancer, I will recall your rational, respectful letter. I will remember not to smite with the broad brush. Thanks for reminding me that being pro-life is not

automatically anti-choice. Alicen Keamarden Smithers

Why no CT scanner? Editor: I’m asking Bulkley Valley people, can anyone give me an honest answer to a simple question: Why do we not have a CT scanner in Smithers? Several unfathomable answers I have received include — 1) There is no room at the hospital … untrue. Measurements have been taken and we definitely have space to accommodate one. 2) Trained staff are hard to find … also untrue according to Terrace staff. 3) They are costly machines to acquire and operate. True, but one is warranted here. It seems a private donor has actually offered to foot the cost of obtaining one for us. So where is it? 4) The population is not large enough to support one ... ridiculous! Prince Rupert has a scanner used solely by Prince Rupert and Haida Gwaii, population approximately 17,500. Terrace has a scanner which is used by Terrace, Kitimat, all communities east on Highway 16 to Burns Lake, plus all communities in the Nass Valley as far north as the Yukon border ... insane. Thus it serves a population of almost 60,000 and is overwhelmed. Non-urgent scan wait times can be eight or nine weeks. The obvious solution is to put one in Smithers and ease the burden on Terrace. With their own population, plus Kitimat, the Nass Valley and communities on Highway 16 as far east as Kitwanga, they have an ample population to serve, approximately 25,000+. Anything east of Kitwanga could come to Smithers, which would then take in the Hazeltons, Moricetown, Smithers, Telkwa, Houston, Burns Lake and all surrounding districts, giving a population of at least 28,000+. So why hasn’t this happened? Why do we have ambulances, buses, and private vehicles taking people to Terrace from as far away as Burns Lake? Any Bulkley Valley residents

Editor: In a round-about way many people of this town have supported me and got me back on my feet. No other community could of done that, only you. I wanted to give this to you before Christmas because you deserve it, but this Santa Claus did not deliver. It is too bad that it came to this but I guess I needed to see for myself what all has happened. That is, being in control of my own mind, which is something I have not had for quite some time. There is lots to be said

Your

Grant Harris Publisher

TO:

T HE E DITOR

Letters to the editor policy

Letters are welcomed up to a maximum of 250 words. Letters are subject to editing for clarity, brevity and legality. All letters must include the writer’s name, daytime telephone number and hometown for verification purposes. Anonymous, or pen names will not be permitted. Not all submissions will be published. Letters may be e-mailed to: editor@ interior-news.com.

TEAM

Chris Gareau Editor

Laura Botten Front Office

would be relieved not to have to make this long trip, especially in winter. The general population is overwhelmingly in favour of installing a scanner here, and so are all the doctors. So tell me honestly people, why hasn’t this happened? And are we just too nonchalant and apathetic to fight for one? Anne Lauderdale Smithers

Airport needs a bucket Editor: Well, the holidays are over and we are now speeding through 2016. Our family always enjoys proudly showing visitors from other provinces and countries our area with the beautiful town of Smithers at any time of year, meeting and seeing them off at our attractive little air terminal. Our airport now has excellent maintenance equipment as well as an acceptable runway length. We could now accommodate safely (jets can now take off with a full load) that excellent 737 jet service that Pacific Western provided us during the 70s (sigh). All the wonderful improvements over the many years have resulted from dedicated hard working individuals. It is much appreciated! Their efforts have brought us a long way from our “Hawaiian style” baggage claim. Picking out one`s baggage from an outdoor rack at minus 30 degrees when returning from a winter break in a sunnier climate always brought one to a shivering reality: you were home! There is one embarrassing fault that remains. Our departure (holding) “closet.” Being crammed into a small room with only one exit (the departure door is kept locked) gives a very claustrophobic feeling. What are the fire regulations on this? The lack of facilities (washrooms) results in having to explain to all guests young or old they must limit their liquid intake before passing through security (never mind the luggage limits). Security must cope with a last minute rush by passengers who are aware they must be prepared for holding in more ways than one after passing security. As a senior may I suggest how we would solve these problems “back in the day” (tongue in cheek of course): 1) Provide a fire axe to exit through a window in case of a fire. 2) A discrete screen in a corner with a bucket. Seriously, we are aware you (mayor and other officials) are working on this problem. Thank-you and good luck. We the public should be voicing our support! Enjoy the remaining 50 weeks of 2016 all. Harry G.Carnie Telkwa

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N EWS Northwest natural gas rate hike By Rod Link Black Press

Northwest residents and businesses are paying more for natural gas as of Jan. 1 because of an interim rate increase approved by the BC Utilities Commission for Pacific Northern Gas (PNG). This is an interim increase for delivering natural gas and a final decision won’t be made until the spring, when formal hearings are planned. While the interim delivery hike for residents is 1.8 per cent, from $11.755 a gigajoule to $11.987 a gigajoule, add-ons push the increase higher. Those add-ons allow PNG to charge more to recover overall delivery costs should not as much gas be consumed as forecast, and more for the cost of the commodity itself should the gas price rise higher than forecast. Those costs can be refunded should delivery revenues be higher than forecast and should the price of the commodity itself not be as much as forecast. PNG does not add to the cost of gas it purchases for its consumers and that cost is adjusted to meet market prices throughout the year. In asking for increased rates, (PNG) says wage increases, increased inspections, general business costs and inflation are part of the reason its expenses are scheduled to rise by 14.5 per cent or $2.3 million. And it’s also not adding any option payments made to it to hold space in its northwestern pipeline, as has been the practice in past years, to feed a planned small liquefied natural gas plant near Kitimat. But the utility also has some good news for its balance sheet: an additional estimated $2.4 million from natural gas sales to Rio Tinto Alcan now that it has completed its Kitimat smelter modernization project and is shifting to full production. When

The Interior News

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

increased income is weighed against additional expenses and loss of other income, the utility is projecting a revenue deficit of nearly $600,000 without a rate increase. Northwestern B.C. natural gas consumers pay more to have gas delivered here than elsewhere in the province because they shoulder more expenses to maintain the delivery system. That dates back to the loss to PNG of large industrial customers beginning in the last decade. In past years delivery costs to PNG customers had been buffered by income from the sale of its interest in the planned Pacific Trails Pipeline which would provide natural gas to the proposed Kitimat LNG project at Kitimat. Those payments have concluded. PNG customers had also benefitted from option payments paid to the utility to hold space in its pipeline for the planned Douglas Channel LNG project, also at Kitimat, in which PNG’s owner, AltaGas of Calgary, is a partner. But for 2016 PNG is holding off on applying option payments until, as it states in its rate increase application to the utilities commission, “there is greater clarity and certainty that the project will proceed.” That’s because Douglas Channel LNG’s partners had been expected to make a final decision by the end of 2015. When that is to be made is not known, something made more complicated by a decision by federal customs officials to charge a duty of $100 million for the Asian-built floating platform on which the plant to liquefy natural gas would be placed. That decision is being appealed. The Douglas Channel LNG project is the one great hope for reduced delivery charges for PNG’s other Northwest customers. The plant would take up the remaining capacity in PNG’s pipeline, adding substantial revenues to the utility’s bottom line.

Breaking News? Let us know 250-847-3266 Email editor@interior-news.com Find us on Facebook at Smithers Interior News

AGM The Bulkley Valley Historical and Museum Society

will be holding the Annual General Meeting in the Old Church (corner of King and 1st Street) on February 22, 2016 at 7:00pm. Fiscal years November 1, 2014 to October 31, 2015 and November 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015. New Directors are required, please support your local Museum. Phone 250-847-5322 - email info@bvmuseum.com

Ten FREE Workshops!

Helping Canadians Live with Mental Illness Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis Obsessive/Compulsive Disorder, Schizophrenia For anyone who has a caring relationship with anyone who has a mental illness. Learn the facts about mental Illness, new medications and treatments, and discover how others support their loved ones.

Wednesdays 7:00 – 9:00 pm Workshop Series starts Feb. 17- Apr. 20

School District 54’s Kindergarten Registration is a little early this year!

For information or to Register: Clara Donnelly - Regional Coordinator Phone: 250-847-9779 Email: bulkleyvalley@bcss.org

Kindergarten registrations will be accepted during the week of January 18-22, 2016 at all of SD#54’s elementary schools for entry into school in September 2016 for children who will be five (5) years old on or before December 31, 2016. Registration during this time is required to assist for planning and organizing of our local schools. Proof of age (original birth certificate) & BC Care Card must be presented at the time of registration. Registration in regular school programs should take place at a resident’s neighbourhood school (see list below). If you have any other questions, please call your neighbourhood elementary school. Lake Kathlyn Elementary 7620 Highway 16 West Smithers, BC 250-847-9427

Walnut Park Elementary 4092 Mountainview Dr. Smithers, BC 250-847-4464

Telkwa Elementary 1000 Hankin Avenue Telkwa, BC 250-846-5851

Muheim Memorial Elementary 3659 – 3rd Avenue Smithers, BC 250-847-2688

Bulkley Valley Education Connection 7620 Highway 16 West Smithers, BC 250-847-9427

Silverthorne Elementary 3455 – 13th Avenue Houston, BC 250-845-2228

Twain Sullivan Elementary 1771 Hungerford Drive Houston, BC 250-845-2227

and Supplies Buy Direct & Save Money Full Janitorial & Residential Environmentally Sound Products 3423 Fulton Ave

Commercial/Residential Floor Specialist • Carpets • Floors • Windows • • General Cleaning • “for all your cleaning needs” Serving Smithers and Surrounding Area 250-847-9992 • 250-847-0756

eslean S iccC naemrvi

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Wednesday, January 13, 2016

N EWS

Bulkley Valley District Hospital Auxiliary Society Annual General Meeting Tuesday, January 19, 2016 7pm Held at the Healthy Living Centre on Main street. Everyone Welcome!

Thank you Smithers Legion for the fantastic New Years Eve Party! The music, the food and the service were all excellent. We had a terrific time and appreciate all your efforts to make it happen. Happy New Year! Russell Kalyn & Deanna Davies Nearly half of Huckleberry Mine’s employees have lost their jobs in one month. Pit operations are suspended.

Contributed photo

21 Smithereens lose their jobs From HUCKLEBERRY on Front “They’re obviously affected by the lower copper prices but each mine has a unique set of economic parameters around it. Red Chris is a very low cost operation that’s got high debt load, and Mount Polley has more levers to pull because it’s got some higher grades in certain areas. So there’s more flexibility at those operations than at Huckleberry,” explained Robertson. Mayor Taylor Bachrach said 21 of those laid off are from Smithers. “I had a chance to speak with one of the VPs from Imperial Metals [last Wednesday] and it doesn’t look terribly promising for the near term,” said Bachrach. The mayor said Smithers is lucky it has a diverse economic base. “However, the reality is that this will have a real impact, most significantly on the individuals who’ve been laid

off,” said Bachrach. He added that service providers are working to support Tuesday, those affected by the job losses, something SkeenaDecember 22, 2015 Bulkley Valley MP Nathan Cullen echoed in a statement 12:00 pm released last week. “There’s no question this is difficult newsCanadian to deliver Reformed Church and to receive,” said Cullen. Smithers “The wheels are already in motion to minimize the impact on Northwest communities.” Cullen said he spent much of last Wednesday morning speaking with community leaders in Houston. He was also trying to reach Imperial Metals to gather information to help those affected. Robertson said Huckleberry had an excellent operating record in 2015 with no loss time accidents. In December, Huckleberry received a reclamation award and a commendation for its work with the local First Nations from the B.C. government.

Province proposes Hydro bill break for struggling mines By Tom Fletcher Black Press

The B.C. government is considering a payment deferral program for mines’ electrical bills, to help keep mines running during an extended slump in metal and coal prices. Energy and Mines Minister Bill Bennett is taking a proposal to cabinet that would allow mines to defer a portion of the BC Hydro bills, with repayment to begin when prices of copper and other mineral commodities reach a certain stage. Imperial Metals announced last week that Huckleberry Mine, a copper mine south of Smithers, is suspending pit operations and laying off 100 more of its of 260 employees after laying off 20 in December. Bennett told Black

Press the continued slump in world commodity prices means more job losses are on the way. Electricity deferrals were used by the NDP government in the 1990s and Social Credit in the 1980s. Bennett said unlike the NDP program that varied rates with commodity prices, he is proposing that mining companies repay deferred funds with commercial interest, with no net burden to taxpayers or BC Hydro ratepayers. “If we can’t figure out something to help reduce operating costs, there’s going to be not just layoffs, there’s going to be mines shutting down,” Bennett said. “I don’t expect bankruptcies and I don’t expect shutdowns forever, but you definitely would see temporary shutdowns until commodity prices come back. And you may see that

anyway, even with the program.” The province loses income tax revenue and BC Hydro loses power sales when industries scale back or shut down, which would put pressure on government services and BC Hydro rates. That gives the province incentive to use a deferral program, he said. Bennett vowed that the rate deferral would not be approved if BC Hydro price caps in the current rate plan were affected. Hydro rates jumped nine per cent in 2014, followed by annual increases of six, four, 3.5 and three per cent in the 10-year rate plan. Starting with the proposed four per cent increase in 2016, the independent B.C. Utilities Commission (BCUC) is reviewing if rate increases can be lower than what is capped in the rate plan.

Happy 65th Anniversary Mom & Dad

(Hank & Paulina VanderMeulen) January 10, 1951

Open House for friends & family to be announced at a later date

TAM HOT SH BAN Smithers Bantam OTS Player of the Week

Name: Adam Sandberg #17 Position: Right Wing Height: 6ʼ Weight: 160lbs Age: 14 Years playing hockey: 3 5 facts about Adam Favourite player Henrik Zetterberg Pregame song anything by Drake Best hockey memory peewee 2nd year, My greatest hockey inﬂuence is my dad Trevor Sandberg, 1 fan Sylvia Kempenaar

BC Bantam Hockey Championships Smithers March 13-18 2016 Proudly brought to you by...

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Chamber of commerce business walk results show workers needed By Chris Gareau Smithers/Interior News

The Smithers District Chamber of Commerce released the results of its inaugural business walk from Oct. 21 last year. The overall impression from owners in Smithers and Telkwa seems to be that business is good. “I got a lot of positive feedback. I was actually quite shocked at the reactions that we got,” said Chamber president Colin Bateman. “When you walk around town, people are always saying we’re not open for business and all this stuff ... but then when we talked to the businesses, we didn’t get that same feedback. They said that business was going pretty well. The only stuff that needed to be worked on was finding employees.” Promoting the Bulkley Valley as a place to move to is the best way to solve that problem, according to Bateman. “Just through social activities in Smithers, being able to retain them. Flights is a big one, being able to fly in and out is pretty important,” said Bateman on how to get more residents to stay. Smithers Mayor Taylor Bachrach agreed continuing to promote the town as a place to raise a family was needed. The Chamber’s report says business owners saw potential in attracting people living in work camps in the North to put roots in town. “Overall, whether or not someone is working in camp, the reasons people move here are very similar regardless of what sector people work in. They want access to amenities and recreation and good schools and shopping opportunities, etcetera,” said Bachrach. “It’s not convincing people who are working in camp to live here instead; I think the camp model, especially the fly in fly out model, makes it possible for people to live farther from their work site ... It would be great to convince folks who are working at those sites that Smithers is a great place to base your family.” Promoting things like the two arenas, soccer field upgrades on their way, especially within resource industries are how the Town

is attracting people, said the mayor. He will be with the Smithers delegation at Minerals Roundup in Vancouver to do just that at the end of this month. Bachrach said the new small business task force meeting in the next month will aim to improve the business climate. Helping with succession planning was also a need, according to owners. Chamber manager Heather Gallagher said it could help workers take over the business if they chose that route. “If a business wants that for their staff, we would be willing to look at that and work with them in bringing in the expertise to talk to their staff,” said Gallagher. The full report is available at smitherschamber.com.

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Notice of Community Survey for the Sign Bylaw Review

The Town of Smithers has launched a Sign Bylaw Review process starting with a Community Survey available on the Town’s website at www.smithers.ca or directly on Survey Monkey by following this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YXBHTD5 . Hard copies of the survey can be obtained from the Town Office, 1027 Aldous Street, Monday through Friday (except holidays), 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Surveys are to be completed on or before January 25th, 2016. PUBLIC INPUT: All Community Members are invited to participate in the Sign Bylaw Review Process; keeping in mind the following important Dates (please note dates may change in 2016): Community Survey December 10th, 2015 – January 25th, 2016 Downtown Signage Tours: • January 19th, 2016 12noon at Bovill Square; • January 21st, 2016 4pm at Bovill Square. CONTACT: For further information please contact Liliana Dragowska, Planner, at (250) 847-1600 or ldragowska@smithers.ca. (second of three notices)

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Canyon Creek ski area calling for volunteers By Xuyun Zeng Smithers/Interior News

Managers of the Canyon Creek Cross-Country Ski Area would like to form a new society to oversee its maintenance. For eight years, Jim Easterday and his wife volunteer a full day a week on maintenance such as brushing the trails, shovelling and grooming. However, a recent incident has had him thinking. “I’ve injured my shoulder last summer and it’s still not back together so I’m not able to do that grooming,” said Easterday. “This reliance on me and my wife to do all

the work out there has got us thinking that we’ve got to reorganize the way we’re organized out there.” “The best thing to do is to form a society devoted specifically to Canyon Creek and its operation.” A volunteer has come forth to help him groom the trails, but he is hoping the new society will have at least six members. “We want to put a call out to the people who go out there and use it, who really enjoy the site, and amongst those people there must be some who would be interested in organizing a new society and taking part in volunteering out there,” he said.

Currently, the Bulkley Valley Outdoor Recreation Society has a partnership with the B.C. Recreation Sites and Trails to maintain it. When asked why wouldn’t he just encourage people to volunteer with the BVORS, Easterday said he prefers for a more specialized society. “This is just a small part of what they do,” he said. “In that society, among the directors, I’m the only director who’s really directly involved with the day-to-day management of the site.” Skiers can access the site at kilometre 21 of Babine Lake Road. The area boasts 20 kilometres of trails, of which Easterday grooms 10 for all

skill levels. The recreation site is 800 hectares large and Easterday estimates nine people per day use it. “It extends all the way to alpine. We’ve got one major trail that goes to alpine and to a nice viewpoint in the alpine,” said Easterday. “Last winter we had 1,100 users on site. We had a counter there and that was in two-and-ahalf months.” It also has snowshoeing areas and dog walking areas. “It’s free. We’ve never got to the point where either we’re asking for fees or donations yet,” said Easterday with a chuckle. If you are interested to volunteer, you can contact Jim Easterday at 250-847-4802.

A map showing the trails at Canyon Creek. Xuyun Zeng photo

Ice Demons crushed 7-2 by Steelheads in Kitimat By Xuyun Zeng Smithers/Interior News

To the Smithers Steelheads’ head coach, last Saturday’s game against the Kitimat Ice Demons felt very different when compared against the Dec. 19 match against the Prince Rupert Rampage. “It wasn’t like the game against Rupert, they were pretty physical,” said Tom DeVries. “This game wasn’t like that at all, they were pretty laid back and waiting for the chance to score on us and they just didn’t get enough chances, I guess.” The Steelheads beat the Demons

7-2 in Kitimat. Perhaps because of the unimpressive nature of the match, DeVries struggled hard to find words to describe the game. He thought the game was “good” and that the Steelheads “played OK.” “The game wasn’t the greatest game. They didn’t seem to have a whole lot of oomph coming after us,” said Steelheads head coach Tom DeVries. “They had chances of course but I would think we carried the play pretty well. I sometimes think we could have won 10-1 or 10-2.” “We played well, I thought, as a team. We got the lead early and kind of stuck with it.” DeVries credits goaltender David Little for keeping the Steelheads ahead.

“I mean the first score was 4-2 after [period] two, and they had a power play so they had a chance to stay in the game, but I thought we were in control of the game,” said DeVries. “Our goaltender David Little made some key saves at the key points to keep us ahead. He didn’t get a lot of shots but he had to make some key saves.” Nevertheless, DeVries is looking forward to the last two games of the regular season this weekend in the backto-back games against Prince Rupert. “I’m expecting two really good games this weekend. If we win in both, we’re first place overall, but that’s not going to be an easy task this weekend that’s for sure,” said DeVries.

Jan. 9 results

Smithers

Kitimat 1st Period: SSH 5:09 - R. Groot SSH 8:57 - W. Vanderheyden KID 10:04 - B. Wakita SSH 19:30 - B. DeVries

1st

2nd 3rd

Tot.

1st

2nd 3rd

Tot.

2nd Period: SSH 12:56 - B. DeVries KID 16:10 - C. Fossl 3rd Period: SSH 03:08 - E. Smith SSH 09:38 - R. Groot SSH 13:38 - Z. Davies

“A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN OUR REGION” 37, 3RD Avenue, PH: 250-692-3195 PO Box 820, TF: 800-320-3339 Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 FX: 250-692-3305 www.rdbn.bc.ca E-MAIL:inquiries@rdbn.bc.ca

MEETING SCHEDULE 2016 January 14, 2016.........RDBN Committee Meetings January 28, 2016.........RDBN Board Meeting/ SNRHD Meeting February 11, 2016 .......RDBN Committee Meetings February 25, 2016 .......RDBN Board Meeting/ SNRHD Meeting March 10, 2016............RDBN Committee Meetings March 24, 2016............RDBN Board Meeting/ SNRHD Meeting The Committee of the Whole will be discussing the draft 2016 to 2020 Financial Plan at its regular meeting on January 14, 2016 and at the Committee of the Whole Meetings on February 11 and March 10, 2016. The Financial Plan will be on the agenda for adoption at the March 24, 2016 Board Meeting. Meetings tentatively commence at 10:30 a.m. Please call (250) 692-3195/1-800-320-3339 for further information

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Winter Games biathlon qualifiers By Xuyun Zeng Smithers/Interior News

Northwest biathletes Seton Kriese, Ava Nealis, Cole Bender and Haley Hanchard have qualified to represent Zone 7’s biathlon team in the B.C. Winter Games. Their invitations came after they placed first in the Bulkley Valley Biathlon Open held Jan. 2. The Winter Games run Feb. 25-28. “We run this race as a miniature B.C. Cup,” said biathlon coach and Zone 7 representative Peter Tweedie. “We have all the features: the race format, the organization.” “The race format is the same, so our athletes young and old get to have a full formal race experience.” If they accept their offers, Seton Kriese and Ava Nealis will compete in the Senior Boys and Senior Girls category respectively, meant for athletes aged 15-16, while Cole Bender and Haley Hanchard will compete in the Junior Boys and Junior Girls category respectively, for athletes aged 13-14. Kriese and Hanchard both ski with the BV Biathlon club, while Nealis and Bender ski with Burns Lake’s Omineca Ski Club. Tweedie and his athletes are training hard before they head down to the Telemark Nordic Club in Kelowna to compete. “Right now we’re into the race season, so it’s a mix,” said Tweedie. “We have some weekends we’re training, and some we’re racing.” His athletes are going through the biathlon B.C. Cup circuit because Tweedie believes “the more racing they can do, the better prepared they are.” “These athletes are skiing three to five times a week as well as shooting one or two times a week,” he said. “A lot of biathletes train in the summertime. They shoot, they run and bike in the summer and

A division of

Biathletes competing at the Bulkley Valley Biathlon Open.

Grant Harris photo

Zone 7’s historical performance in biathlon Source: bcgames.org

2006 Greater Trail

2008 2010 Kimberley- Terrace Cranbrook

in the winter they sort of put it all together.” Tweedie believes that the toughest competition will come from the Vancouver-Coastal and Cariboo-North East zones. “They have some pretty strong athletes right now and so they’ll be pretty competitive,” said Tweedie. “But our zone — we have some good competitive athletes. Two Games ago, our junior boy and junior girl each came home with three gold medals.” While Tweedie has utmost confidence in his athletes, he stands cautious about predicting the results. “Biathlon is quite a variable sport,” he said. “You’ve got crosscountry skiing and shooting. You got temperatures, you’ve got how your body manages a course on particular day and snow conditions, and that impacts how well you are going to hit your targets.”

2012 Greater Vernon

2014 Mission

The Smithers Snowmobile Association is thanking everyone who supported their 2015 / 2016 Polaris Sport Quad Raffle. The Winners are: • Polaris Quad, Teresa Thomas of Smithers • $500: Brian Hope of Telkwa • $250: Anita Naziel of Moricetown • $100: Nicole Brooks of Black Diamond, AB

Beautiful Babies of 2015 Special Edition Entry deadline is Friday, January 15, DON’T MISS OUT!

This will be a very popular edition and your child or grandchild can be included for only $25.00 including GST. So start looking for that special photo now. If you would like your photo returned, include a stamped, selfaddressed envelope or pick up at our office after Feb. 1st.

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2015 BABY EDITION THE INTERIOR NEWS Baby’s Last Name ____________________ Baby’s 1st Name _____________________ Baby’s Birth Date_____________________ Age of Baby when photo taken _________ Mom’s Name ________________________ Dad’s Name _________________________ Address _____________________________ ____________________________________ Telephone ___________________________

Fill out this form and return it along with a photo of your baby born between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2015. Digital photos may be emailed to laura@interior-news.com 3764 Broadway Avenue, Box 2560, Smithers, B.C., V0J 2N0

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Fire destroys home days before Christmas By Xuyun Zeng Telkwa/Interior News

It’s an eerie sight at Ray Garcia’s Coalmine Road house. This is a house that never survived to see 2016. Melted Christmas lights dangle off the walls, and the front door and windows have been boarded up. Go around back and you see a chimney completely intact, whereas the surrounding walls have been burned to charcoal. “It was a chimney fire, happened about probably around 5 a.m. in the morning, Dec. 22,” said Garcia with a sigh. “Started from a chimney fire and it quickly spread to the attic, and kind of burned most of the house.” Garcia first realized something was wrong when his carbon monoxide detector started beeping as he was asleep on the couch. “That woke me up,” said Garcia. “So I thought, well, ‘I got to just ventilate the place.’ I went downstairs, and I saw a red glow outside. Boy, I think I have a chimney fire.” “So I ran out there and the

chimney was on fire, just roaring, and then there was fire right beside it and it started to shoot into the attic and a couple of minutes later the whole side of the house was on fire.” The first thought that came to Garcia was to wake up his wife and get his dogs out. “I grabbed a couple of coats, and she grabbed some items and we ran out of there,” said Garcia. Garcia wished he had a fire truck and a fire hose at that moment. The ex-firefighter believes that he could have put it out himself during the early stages of the chimney fire. He dialed 911 and 19 firefighters came to the scene. “It was kind of a long-drawn affair for us and the challenges of working under a rather cold morning,” said Telkwa fire chief Randy Cunningham. “It took quite some time to actually get it cornered. It got up to the roof of the main structure, then it progressed over to the addition, so it took quite some time to get that under control.” Garcia and his wife Maria are now homeless. They are staying at their daughter’s until they move into a Smithers apartment Friday.

A Telkwa home stands ruined because of a chimney fire. The house will have to be torn down and rebuilt again.

Xuyun Zeng photo

They estimate the damage to be about $350,000-$400,000 for the replacement of the 2,000-squarefoot home and their contents. “It’s really bad, they tell me it probably won’t be a year before they rebuild the house,”

he said. “Now I got to deal with insurance, they’ve got to figure out how much everything is worth and what kind of house they can put down there.” Bulkley Valley Restorations are also working on-site to recover

possessions that have suffered smoke damage and to calculate damages. The Garcias did manage to take some priceless items out, such as photo albums, computers and a safe.

Smithers Christmas bird count numbers high

A tiny northern saw-whet owl in a farmer’s shed with a mouse in its talons photographed by 15-year-old birder Adam Snow the week of the bird count.

Jan. 3 was a sunny cold day for the Smithers Christmas bird count, but the Bulkley Valley sparkled in its winter whiteness ... a glorious sight. Approximately 45 people went out birding, with an additional five people watching feeders at home. We identified 45 species of birds. The identification of three additional species was not confirmed. Many more individual birds (over 6,000) were counted than is normal. This was, in large part, due to the huge flocks of pine grosbeaks and bohemian waxwings eating the fruit on the many crab-apples and mountain ash trees. There were also lots of pine siskins and common redpolls. These are both seed eaters coming to feeders. The most exciting species were probably the northern goshawk and a tiny northern saw-whet owl. Normally saw-whet owls are nocturnal, but this little one had found a cosy spot inside a farmer’s shed and had a mouse in its talons when it posed nicely for us. Also exciting to see was a merlin. The white-crowned sparrow would normally have left, but again it found a reliable food source in a shed full of grain. A few American robins and song sparrows also stayed as they found good food sources. This year we counted more mountain chickadees than ever before, and four pileated woodpeckers is a record high for our count. Also on the list are species seen in the three days before and three days after the count day. If anyone saw any other species not on the list on count day or during the count week, please call 250847-9429. The Bulkley Valley Naturalists would like to thank all the birders for making the count so successful. Submitted by Rosamund Pojar, Bird Count Coordinator See SPECIES on A14

Adam Snow photo

Imagine your retirement! See us today. • The Hazeltons • Smithers • Houston & District • Lakes District •

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The Interior News

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

From BIRD COUNT on A13

Take your first step to the international stage! Applications now being accepted for Miss Teen BC, Miss BC & Mrs BC! To apply visit your community newspaper website and click on contests.

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C OMMUNITY

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

www.interior-news.com

Flipping the channel on veggy chopped television I

must have missed something-again. The new TV season is in full swing. I have to tell you without a word of a lie that when I am told that it is a new season for some series I think to myself that I have not seen any of the episodes. It is too much I tell you. I assume that the little snippets we are shown to entice us to look at a show are the best they have. Really? Every time I am shown a bit of a show I cannot imagine wasting my time. There seems to be a lot of police shows with a smattering of a medical PICE drama. Most of the characters are involved in some way or another with other characters. I do OF IFE mean involved. Much to do about nothing. Brenda Mallory I could of course tune into a reality show. Is there someone out there that thinks those shows are actually real? I guess so, since they go on season after season. When it comes to the reality issue I wonder if younger generations watching those show feel they should be doing something else to make their lives more real. How can a person possibly meet those standards? Beautiful hair, good bodies, pouty lips (where did those come from)? You get the picture. I try my best to watch non-commercial television. I have the two PBS channels, Knowledge Network, TVO , AMI and classic movies.. That is enough for me. Throw in the music channels and I am in good company. Last night I watched Downton Abbey along with many. Fascinating show with its dedication to details from the 1920s. Beautiful clothes and unique old cars. Not a soul had long unruly hair or fingernails painted black. Just a pleasant, relaxing bit of entertainment. I could watch a good mystery show or a documentary. I could do all that and not once did I have someone wanting me to buy a vegetable chopper, or a bed for two. I wasn’t asked to invest in anything. I did not have to focus on a snack food. I might be shown the latest fast food hamburger. A big old bun with a few sesame seeds on it would force mustard and other guck to drip out. Just what I need. I have no idea what your favourite TV show is but maybe it is time to take a look at what you’re watching ,deciding if the action on the screen is all it seems to be. Good luck with all that. When you are not watching sports or dramas you could call me at 250-846-5095 or email a note to mallory@bulkley.net.

DON CHERRY’S SPORT GRILL IS NOW OPEN! Come to the Grand Opening of Don Cherry’s Sports Grill Friday January 15th from 5 to 7pm at the Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge • • •

Enjoy free appetizer and beverage sampling Live music Enter to win a one nights stay at Prestige Hotel & Resort and gift certificates for the restaurant

LOCAL LEADERS WITH LOCAL KNOWLEDGE Put your leadership and management skills to work serving democracy in British Columbia. Elections BC is looking for local leaders to serve as District Electoral Officers and Deputy District Electoral Officers throughout B.C. These roles plan for and manage the administration of the 2017 Provincial General Election and related projects. District Electoral Officers and Deputy District Electoral Officers represent the Chief Electoral Officer in their electoral district and play a critical role ensuring voters and stakeholders experience an impartial, fair, accessible and inclusive electoral process. For more information, visit elections.bc.ca/jobs. Apply now. Application deadline is January 31, 2016.

www.elections.bc.ca / 1 - 8 0 0 - 6 6 1 - 8 6 8 3

PRESTIGE HUDSON BAY LODGE 250.847.4581

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C OMMUNITY Get a CICK start in radio programming VIEW FROM THE PORCH Lorraine Doiron

basics of radio programming. The result will be 30 minutes of your programming aired on CICK. Feb. 1–29, Mondays 11–12:30. Cost $10 at NWCC. Starting up in January at the library: babytime, toddlertime, storytime. Jan. 25–30 is National Family Literacy Week with a variety of activities. Jan. 30, watch for the library activity table at Family Play Day. A special treat on Jan. 23, 1–3 p.m., Sieghard Weitzel, owner of Outdoor Outfitters, and

his two guide dogs Mulligan and Radar, both Labrador retrievers, take part in a reading program. Children can take turns reading to these patient, non-judgemental dogs. More information, call 250-847-3043. Jan. 19-20, 6–8 p.m. at the art gallery: The Art of Dreaming, a focus on self-expression and creatively drawing from our dreams.Darren and Beth Jakubec will lead, draw, paint, sketch or simply explore what is possible. All materials supplied,

$25, registration preferred but drop-ins welcome. Sign up at the gallery. The manager is in the back working, knock loudly. At the Legion: Karaoke, Jan. 15, 9 p.m. and will continue on the first Friday of the month thereafter. Hamburgers & Humour, Jan. 22, burgers served 5:30-7 with comedy at 7:30. Closing with: “Three things in human life are important. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind. The third is to be kind.” — Henry Jamese.

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This Newspaper. It’s a good read. When crumpled and stuffed in your jacket, it’s a good insulator. That’s what Bethany had to do when she lived on the streets.

This toque. It helped Bethany find a better life. Buy yours at RaisingtheRoof.org or donate $5 by texting TOQUE to 45678. Help the homeless in your community.

DRIVE AWAY WITHOUT PAYING

X6183I_This Newspaper.indd 1

0 0 0 0

DOWN PAYMENT

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SECURITY DEPOSIT

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ICK is looking for a person interested in hosting the half hour Council Briefs program that covers council meetings. Ever wanted to be on the radio? Contact me at 250-847-4797. Also, the Elder College has lined up You & The Power of Community Radio. Learn the

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2016-01-07 3:25 PM

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Round

Job Description:

Mechanical Specifications:

Contact:

Client: RTR Docket #: 112-LPBCRFX6183 Project: Newspaper Ad #: X6183I

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ON NOW AT YOUR BC GMC DEALERS. BCGMCDEALERS.CA 1-800-GM-DRIVE. GMC is a brand of General Motors of Canada. Offers apply to the lease of a 2016 Terrain SLE-1 AWD (3SA), and purchase or finance of a 2015 Sierra 1500 Double/Crew Cab and Sierra 2500HD. 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 GMC Dealer Marketing Association area only. Dealer order or trade may be required. †† Lease based on a purchase price of $31,010, including $670 Loyalty Cash (tax exclusive) for a new eligible 2016 Terrain SLE-1 AWD (3SA). Bi-weekly payment is $182 for 48 months at 0.9% APR, on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. Annual kilometre limit of 20,000 km, $0.16 per excess kilometre. $0 down payment and a $0 security deposit is required. Payment may vary depending on down payment or trade. Total obligation is $18,912, plus applicable taxes. Option to purchase at lease end is $12,886. Price and total obligation exclude license, insurance, registration, taxes 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 Company reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. * Offer valid to eligible retail lessees in Canada who have entered into a lease agreement with GM Financial and accept delivery between January 5 and February 1, 2016, of a new or demonstrator 2016 model year GMC model excluding Canyon 2SA. General Motors of Canada will pay two biweekly lease payments as defined on the lease agreement (inclusive of taxes and any applicable pro-rata amount normally due at lease delivery as defined on the lease agreement). After the first two biweekly payments, lessee will be required to make all remaining scheduled payments over the remaining term of the lease agreement. PPSA/RDPRM is not due. Consumer may be required to pay dealer fees. Insurance, license and applicable taxes not included. Additional conditions and limitations apply. GM reserves the right to modify or terminate this offer at any time without prior notice. See dealer for details. ^ Offer available to qualified retail customers in Canada for vehicles delivered between January 5 and February 1, 2016. 0% purchase financing offered on approved credit by TD Auto Finance Services, Scotiabank® or RBC Royal Bank for 84 months on select new or demonstrator 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 Double Cab 2WD 1SA / Crew Cab 2WD 1SA and Sierra HD’s 1SA 2WD with gas engine. Participating lenders are subject to change. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and/or security deposit may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: $45,000 at 0% APR, the monthly payment is $535.71 for 84 months. Cost of borrowing is $0, total obligation is $45,000. Offer is unconditionally interest-free. Freight, air tax ($100, if applicable) included. License, insurance, registration, PPSA/movable property registry fees, applicable taxes and dealer fees not included. Dealers may sell for less. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ®Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. † $12,000 is a combined total credit consisting of $1,000 Loyalty Cash (tax inclusive) and a $11,000 manufacturer to dealer cash credit (tax exclusive) for a 2015 2015 Sierra HD gas models (excluding 1SA 4x2), 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 $11,000 credit which will result in higher effective interest rates. Discounts vary by model. ‡ $10,380 is a combined total credit consisting of a $3,000 manufacturer-to-dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive) $5,195 Cash Credit (tax exclusive) available on 2015 GMC Sierra Double Cab 1SA 4WD models, $1,000 Owner Cash (tax inclusive), $750 manufacturer-to-dealer Elevation Package Discount Credit (tax exclusive) for 2015 Sierra 1SA Elevation Edition with 5.3L Engine and a $435 manufacturer-to-dealer cash credit (tax exclusive) on any 2015 GMC Sierra Elevation Double Cab AWD with a 5.3L engine, 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 $5,630 credit, which will result in higher effective interest rates. Discounts vary by model. ¥ 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 or 2016 model year GMC SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between January 5 and February 1, 2016. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive) and credit value depends on model purchased: $750 credit available on eligible GMC vehicles (except Canyon 2SA, Sierra 1500 and HD); $1,000 credit available on all GMC Sierra models. 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 Company 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 GM Canada dealer for details. GM Canada reserves the right to amend or terminate offers for any reason in whole or in part at any time without prior notice.

Call Coast Mountain Chevrolet Buick GMC at 250-847-2214, or visit us at 4038 Yellowhead Highway 16 West, Smithers. [License #10041]

The Interior News

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Wise customers read the fine print: *, †, Ω, ★ The Cold Days Hot Deals Sales Event offers are limited time offers which apply to retail deliveries of selected new and unused models purchased from participating dealers on or after January 5, 2016. Offers subject to change and may be extended without notice. All pricing includes freight ($1,745) and excludes licence, insurance, registration, any dealer administration fees, other dealer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. Dealer trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell for less. *Consumer Cash Discounts are offered on select new 2016 vehicles and are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. †0% purchase financing available on select new 2016 Ram 1500 and Ram Heavy Duty models to qualified customers on approved credit through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Example: 2016 Ram 1500 Quad Cab SXT 4x4 (25A+AGR) with a Purchase Price of $29,998 with a $0 down payment, financed at 0% for 72 months equals 156 bi-weekly payments of $192 with a cost of borrowing of $0 and a total obligation of $29,998. Ω$9,000 in total discounts includes $7,500 Consumer Cash and $1,500 Loyalty/ Conquest Bonus Cash. Consumer Cash Discounts are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. $1,500 Ram Truck Loyalty/Conquest/Skilled Trades Bonus Cash is available on the retail purchase/lease of 2015/2016 Ram 1500 (excludes Reg. Cab), 2014/2015/2016 Ram 2500/3500, 2014/2015/2016 Ram Cab & Chassis or 2015 Ram Cargo Van and is deducted from the negotiated price after taxes. Eligible customers include: 1. Current owners/lessees of a Dodge or Ram Pickup Truck or Large Van or any other manufacturer’s Pickup Truck or Large Van. The vehicle must have been owned/leased by the eligible customer and registered in their name on or before January 5, 2016. Proof of ownership/Lease agreement will be required. 2. Customers who are skilled tradesmen or are acquiring a skilled trade. This includes Licensed Tradesmen, Certified Journeymen or customers who have completed an Apprenticeship Certification. A copy of the Trade Licence/Certification required. 3. Customers who are Baeumler Approved service providers. Proof of membership is required. Limit one $1,500 bonus cash offer per eligible transaction. Some conditions apply. See your dealer for complete details. ★The Make No Financing Payments for 90 Days offer is available from January 5 – February 1, 2016, and applies to retail customers who finance a new 2015/2016 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram or FIAT vehicle (excludes 2015/2016 Dodge Viper and Alfa Romeo) at a special fixed rate on approved credit up to 96 months through Royal Bank of Canada and TD Auto Finance or up to 90 months through Scotiabank. Monthly/bi-weekly payments will be deferred for 60 days and contracts will be extended accordingly. Interest charges will not accrue during the first 60 days of the contract. After 60 days, interest starts to accrue and the purchaser will repay principal and interest over the term of the contract but not until 90 days after the contract date. Customers will be responsible for any required down payment, license, registration and insurance costs at time of contract. Some conditions apply. See your dealer for complete details. ≤Based on 3500/F-350 full-size pickups and competitive information available at time of publication. Based on max towing comparison between 2016 Ram 3500 - up to 31,210 lb, 2015 Chevrolet 3500 - up to 23,200 lb and 2016 Ford F-350 - up to 26,500 lb. TMThe SiriusXM logo is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc.

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Wednesday, January 13, 2016

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O UR T OWN Biologist rebuilds moose skeleton in garage

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By Xuyun Zeng Smithers/Interior News

Wildlife biologist Bill Jex was having coffee on his front veranda in March 2011 when he noticed ravens flying into the woods in front of his house. Curious to know what was happening, he walked in and found a dead moose which he believed had died recently. Over the next few days, critters came by to scavenge on the carcass, leaving only the bones and hide. Jex found himself presented with the opportunity to preserve an almost complete moose skeleton. “To find one that had died pretty much naturally and was undisturbed — I’ll never get another opportunity,” said Jex. Jex gathered up the bones and he quickly applied for a permit to keep the skeleton. Today, he has a museum piece standing in his garage, which Jex believes is “98 per cent done.” “I just have some fill work

The Interior News

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

to do in the joints with some silicone so that they fill out and look like they have cartilage in them,” he said. Standing at six-feet tall and about seven-feet in length, it took Jex many stages to get to this point. “When I collected them, there was a little bit of tissue and hide on them, so I macerated that off, and that’s where you rot it off in water, and washed it off,” said Jex. “The process of cleaning the bones, and then drying them and deodorizing them took a couple of years actually.” Jex had to ensure he put his summers to good use. “Because I didn’t use chemicals to speed things along, it was just a natural rotting process and cleaning process, it was just time waiting for the bacteria to do its thing and waiting for the sun to come so I could lighten the bones up and clean them up and dry them,” said Jex. By fall 2013, Jex started to dry the bones out using a mixture of borax and carpet deodorizer. Jex compares reassembling

the skeleton to “a big jigsaw puzzle,” but rather than going at it blindly, Jex decided to seek the help of the Boneman, an Alaskan author of manuals on how to reassemble skeletons. “I started searching the Internet and he had a piece-bypiece instruction on how to put a moose skeleton together so I ordered that book then I just started putting it together,” said Jex. Jex started putting the skeleton together last year. He built it so that it would come apart in six pieces because he was uncertain about the skeleton’s future. “May be nice if the college is interested, or the high school,” said Jex. “I’m open to suggestions if there are people that are interested.” Jex believes that the skeleton presents a “great” learning opportunity. “Especially here with moose being such an important part of the local culture,” said Jex. “But you never get to see the bones and how many little pieces of bones there are in each one of

Bill Jex stands beside his moose skeleton. The project took five years to get to this point.

Xuyun Zeng photo

them.” “For an animal that stands at six-feet at the shoulders, it has a lot bones that are as small as your baby’s fingernails.” Jex believes that the moose died of internal bleeding. When he cleaned the bones, he

realized that the moose had two freshly broken ribs around its spine, which probably punctured its lungs. Jex believes that the moose was only four to five years old when it died, based on the condition of its teeth.

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Snowed In Comedy Tour brings flurry of laughs By Chris Gareau Smithers/Interior News

Marjorie Starr has laughed a lot in her almost 90 years, and said she got quite a few more in before her birthday Feb. 4 by attending Thursday’s Snowed In Comedy Tour in Smithers. “It was very good. This is the third year we’ve been,” said Starr, who went to the fourth show to be held in Smithers with her son Max. Her and Max’s favourite jokes were ones that targeted the Bulkley Valley’s storied Dutch community. Having someone like Starr, who went up to the comedians after the show to tell them how great she thought they were, meant a lot to tour organizer Dan Quinn. “It’s fantastic. It probably means more than a regular fan because they’ve seen way more in life; and sometimes they come from a different generation so you wonder if you could connect with an older generation, and when you can you feel great. We’re relevant to a lot of people,” said Quinn. He was one of four performers on the night. Funny men Paul Myrehaug, Craig Campbell and Pete Zedlacher joined Quinn in earning a standing ovation from the crowd

at Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge. Jokes covered a variety of topics like the glare ice on Northwest roads, Smart cars embedding themselves in moose, northern drivers’ affection for huge trucks, and experiencing Smithers watering hole “The Twin.” All the stand-up artists of course had stories about snowboarding or skiing, which is why Quinn organized the tour in the first place. They joined sponsor Local Supply Company co-owner Dave Walter on Hudson Bay Mountain before the show. “We drove straight to the ski hill. We got up early from Terrace, made it to the ski hill Marjorie Starr gets a photo with the four Snowed In Comedy Tour comedians. for 10 o’clock, and then we boarded all day,” described Quinn on his day in town. “The snow that was there was fantastic. We actually found a little bit of powder ... the groomers were great. It was a lot of fun.” Quinn said he and the tour will be back again in 2017, something Starr is looking forward to. “I think it does Smithers good. It’s a nice place, Smithers, but it’s very quiet, isn’t it? Especially for the young ones, they find it very so; and it’s so far from anywhere — that’s a problem,” said Starr. Her son Max did blow a surprise after the show: Starr’s 90th birthday party is Feb. 4 at Craig Campbell and Paul Myrehaug yuk it up in Smithers Thursday night. the Alpenhorn. Chris Gareau photos

··PRESENTS PRESENTS··

Hamburgers & Humour!!!

Are YOU Smithers’ funniest person??? Sign up your comedy routine at the Legion, or call 250-847-5082 and leave your name and a contact number.

Friday, January 22nd Hamburgers, beef dip, and chicken fingers: $6 available 5:30 – 7:00 pm Comedy starts at 7:30 pm

No cover charge! Come and “Laugh at the Legion”!

Members & Guests Welcome Minors allowed until 10 pm

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The Interior News

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

A&E Juno Award winner Stephen Fearing plays Thursday The Bulkley Valley Concert Association is delighted to present Stephen Fearing as the opening performance of 2016 at 7:30 p.m. this Thursday at the Della Herman Theatre. Stephen Fearing is a multi-award winning musician known for his poetic storytelling, rich vocals, skilful guitar playing and his deft blending of folk, rock and country. His solo and collaborative projects, including the alternative country trio Blackie and the Rodeo Kings and the folk duo Fearing & White, have brought him critical acclaim and a discerning following. Born in Vancouver, Fearing spent his formative years in Dublin, Ireland where his high school history teacher, Donald Moxham, encouraged him to pursue music. Moxham was the same teacher who helped U2 get their start. In 1982 Stephen returned to Vancouver after a sojourn in Minneapolis and it was here that he honed his guitar skills and released his first cassette-only, self-titled album in 1986, followed by 1988’s Out to Sea, produced by Fearing and Steve Darke. Darke will be familiar to many Midsummer Festival goers and organizers for his many years of mentoring local sound technicians. In 1991 Fearing signed with True North Records and his first new release with them,

1994’s The Assassin’s Apprentice featuring Yellowjacket featured collaborations with guest vocals from Sarah McLachlan, earned prominent Canadian folk and country him a Juno nomination for Best Traditional musicians, and won the 2007 Juno for the Best and Roots Album. 1994 marked Fearing’s Traditional and Roots Album. move to Guelph, Ont, where he connected In 2011, Fearing released Fearing & White, with blues musician Colin Linden over their a collaborative album with the Belfast singerlove of Willie P. Bennett’s music. Bennett had songwriter Andy White that features 13 songs a profound influence on Fearing and the trio written together over ten years, followed by Blackie and the Rodeo Kings was formed 2014’s Tea and Confidences. with Tom Wilson of Junkhouse to record a After an eight-year stay in Halifax, Fearing tribute album of Bennett’s music. The result, recently relocated to Victoria and is currently High or Hurtin’ (1996) was released to critical working on material for a new solo album. raves and another Juno nomination. He just finished a solo tour of the United The collaboration was meant to be a one Kingdom and the Netherlands. album project, but Blackie and the Rodeo Fearing has fond memories of a summer Kings continue to tour and produce award spent in the valley as a teenager and has winning albums including Kings of Love (2000), performed at Midsummer Festival as a solo Juno for Best Roots and Traditional Album: act and at the Della Herman with Blackie and Group, and Record of the Year for Let’s Frolic the Rodeo Kings. (2006) at the Hamilton Music Awards. 2016 Tickets are on sale now at Mountain Eagle will see a new release by the band. Books: Adult $25, Senior $20 (60 +), Youth Fearing’s solo career has also garnered him $16 (18 and under). Stephen Fearing performs Thursday at many accolades and awards He was judged — Submitted by the Bulkley Valley Concert the Della Herman Theatre. the Traditional/Roots Performer of the Year Association Lisa McIntosh photo at the 1991 West Coast Music Awards and Best Songwriter (English) at the 2006 Canadian 3894 1st Avenue, 4646 - 10th Avenue, Sponsored by: Smithers, BC Hazelton, BC Folk Music Awards. Ph: 250-847-3255 Ph: 250-842-2255 His stripped-down and soulful, self-produced album

brings you your nd Horoscope for the 2 week of January ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, finding time to get everything done can be challenging. Fortunately, you have quite a few friends willing to spare some time and lend you a helping hand. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Difficult decisions can take time to work through, Taurus. Although you want to address all situations, this week isn’t a good one for making big decisions. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, something keeps nagging at you and you can’t get it out of your head. Trust your intuition and be on guard. With some careful thought, a solution will present itself. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 A hectic schedule may have you feeling some pressure, Cancer. Keep in mind that all of your deadlines are self-imposed, so just factor a little more time into your week. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, sometimes you have to make a few mistakes before you get things right. Don’t let this worry you, as trial and error is all a part of the learning process. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, you may suspect what’s around the corner, but you are not ready to take the plunge just yet. Give it a little more time until you feel ready and secure.

Driftwood Plaza Next to Louise’s Kitchen Main St. Smithers

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Work with your doctor to develop a plan for meeting some healthy resolutions, Libra. It is important to make your health a priority this week. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, it may prove impossible to escape all of your responsibilities right now, but you can let a few slide for the time being. Tackle the most daunting projects first. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 You cannot avoid a complex issue forever, Sagittarius. Come clean with the person you may have been hiding from, and work with this person to reach a resolution. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, it may be frightening to reveal your true feelings about something, especially when the truth might change your life in a dramatic way. Muster your courage. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Others appreciate all that you do for them, Aquarius. But sometimes they have to do for themselves to learn valuable lessons. This week is a time to step aside. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, while you are busy helping other people, you may discover that it’s time to take a step back and tend to your own needs.

Winter hours: Closed Sundays & Mondays

CLUES DOWN 1. Go quickly 2. Fiddler crabs 3. Cervid 4. Gundog 5. Gushed forth 6. Caliph 7. Shoe cord 8. Give extreme unction to 9. Of I 10. “A Doll’s House” author 11. Documents certifying authority 13. Drunk 15. Principal ethnic group of China 17. Crinkled fabrics 18. Longest division of geological time 21. Pancake 23. Small pat 24. A garden plot 27. Strayed 29. Surgical instrument

32. No. French river 34. Modern 35. Now called Ho Chi Minh City 36. Set into a specific format 39. Exhaust 40. Individual 43. Moves rhythmically to music 44. D. Lamour “Road” picture costume 46. Having earlike appendages 47. Certified public accountant 49. Outermost part of a flower 51. Supplement with difficulty 54. Plains Indian tent (alt. sp.) 59. Electronic warfare-support measures 60. Displaying a fairylike aspect 61. Taxi 62. They __ 64. Syrian pound

Drop this completed puzzle off at Bulkley Valley Insurance to be entered to win a $100 gift card for the Smithers Merchants

CLUES ACROSS 1. Color properties 5. Arabian greeting 10. Frozen spike 12. Levels 14. Tear down social stiffness 16. Rapper Hammer’s initials 18. Midway between E and SE 19. Shooting marble 20. Edward __, British composer 22. Largest English dictionary (abbr.) 23. Cygnus’ brightest star 25. Goidelic language of Ireland 26. Midway between N and NE 27. Auditory organ 28. Last month (abbr.) 30. Indicated horsepower (abbr.) 31. Mediation council 33. Aussie crocodile hunter 35. Sylvan deity 37. Clears or tidies 38. In a way, emerges 40. Whimper 41. G. Gershwin’s brother 42. Begetter 44. Seated 45. Old world, new 48. Girls 50. “Song of triumph” 52. A covering for the head 53. Attack 55. Norwegian krone 56. Coach Parseghian 57. No good 58. Task that is simple 63. A way to move on 65. In a way, advanced 66. Loses weight 67. Shift sails

Solutions on page A24

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Check out

The Interior News classifieds

847-3266

The Interior News

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Wednesday, January 13, 2016

A25

Chatters

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Chris & the staff at Chatters have home-built a reputation for having the best pizza in town. Their “you-bake” pizzas that we are proud to provide, ensure that our customers enjoy a Chatters Pizza anytime day or night.

Committed to our area’s over all well being by offering local produce, meats, baked goods, seafood & more. Real Estate

Real Estate

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Pick up your FREE copy of our Real Estate Flyer and our map of the Bulkley Valley. View more of our listings online at www.remaxsmithersbc.ca or on Facebook.

$196,500

NEW LISTING

$192,500

$399,000

$459,000

$335,000

$214,900

6851 Williams Frontage Rd

#4 – 3278 Third Avenue

3245 Turner Way

18634 Kerr Rd (Old Quick School)

20887 Highway 16 W, Smithers

3676 Alfred Avenue

• Cute, well kept, 2 bedroom rancher • 5 min west of Smithers, great view • Nicely updated, deck, hot tub • www.smithershomes.com

• 2 bedroom home • Sunken living room • New linoleum and carpets • Carport, concrete patio

• 4/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms • Floors above ground, concrete dw • 10 years young, Willowvale Sub. • Fenced backyard, perimeter trail

• 7123 square foot, one level building • 5 acres, level and landscaped • Would make a good residence • 4 classrooms, 3 bathrooms, gym

• 46.6 acres, 4 bedroom home • 3 pastures, fenced for horses • Toboggan Creek frontage • Spruce forest, many trails

• 4 bedrooms, one level • Hardwood floors in livingroom • European style kitchen • 75x125 lot, alley access

Ron Lapadat

Donna Grudgfield

Donna & Leo

Donna Grudgfield

$275,000

mls r2004470

$569,000

mls n247381

$309,000

mls n4507311

$239,000

mls r2012828

$123,500

mls r2016639

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4879 Fourth Avenue

7639 Tatlow Road

2035 Aveling Coalmine Road

1139 Queen Street

Lot A Millar Road

5663 Slack Road

• 3 bdrm, 1 bath rancher style home • Large .47 acre lot by golf course • Carport, paved drive, storage • www.realestatesmithers.com

• 285 acres, borders crown land • 50x140 shop with 50x40 heated • 30x40 & 24x24 new building 2012 • www.realestatesmithers.com

• 4 bdrm home, quiet area • 4.94 acres, nicely landscaped • Lots of upgrades, recreational area • www.realestatesmithers.com

• Prime corner lot, downtown • C-1A zoning allows for multiple use • Offices, entry foyer, bathroom • www.realestatesmithers.com

• Rural 4 acre building lot • Awesome location just 5min to town • Driveway, drilled well, views • www.smithershomes.com

• Rural home site close to town • Year round creek • 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms • Lots of room inside and out

Leo Lubbers

Ron Lapadat

Peter Lund

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$259,900

mls r2014440

$205,000

mls n239358

$998,800

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$208,000

4368 Second Avenue

1191 Coalmine Road, Telkwa

4912 Fourth Avenue

33176 Walcott Quick Road

1677 First Street, Telkwa

DL 2291 Highway 16 West

• Great location, big fenced backyard • Near highschool, park, pool, arenas • 4 bdrm + den, 2 bath, suite potential • www.smithershomes.com

• Affordable 4 bdrm, 2 bath, osbe • Large fenced yard, by park & river • Hardwood floors, sundeck, views • Quick possession is available

• 8000 sq. ft. 3 level executive home • 7 bedrooms, office, 5 bathrooms • Home theater,game rm,huge kitchen • Quality custom built

• Riverfront rural 228 acres • 2 titles, approx. 65 acres in hay • Driveway, hydro, some outbuildings • Great fishing, perfect for small farm

• 4 bedrooms + den, 3 bathrooms • ½ acre lot, treed & private • Many updates and well kept • 3 car garage

• Timbered ¼ section of land • Zoned R-1 and only part is ALR • Mixture of tree species • 20 min west of Smithers

Ron Lapadat

Sandra Hinchliffe

mls r2003804

$89,000-109,000

mls r2014298

$144,000

mls n246775

$79,900

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$169,500

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$284,500

mls n231055

$225,000

Whistler Road

9257 Glacierview Road

Fulton Street, Granisle

233 Poplar Park Road

5166 Nielson Road

3436 Victoria Drive

• Last 3 lots on Whistler Road • Close to town and wilderness • Great access to biking & skiing • 5.06-8.92 acres in size

• Beautiful lot in a great neighborhood • Partially constructed log home • Shed and outbuildings • Treed with lots of flat area

• Granisle handy-man special • Executive home let go, needs repair • 3216 sf, 6 bdrm, 3 bath, 2 fireplaces • Many extras, awesome lake view

• Kispiox valley house on 10 acres • Home offers 1466 sf of living space • Shop could convert into 2nd home • Park like, walk to river and fishing

• Country home, 1080 sf, 2 bedroom • Pristine setting, 5 min to town • Vaulted ceilings, rock fireplace • Open design, detached sauna

• Industrial M-2 bare land site • Great location on 2.41 acres • Water at site line, septic required • Access off Victoria/Fulton Drive

Sandra Hinchliffe

Ron & Charlie

Charlie & Ron

Charlie McClary

$69,900

mls n244995

$319,900

mls n248147

$285,000

mls n243329

$229,000

mls n248159

$92,000

mls n236530

$320,000

#64-95 Laidlaw Road

2712 Tatlow Road

5716 Morris Road

17771 Highway 16, Smithers

#10-4430 Hudson Bay MHP

7060 Cedar Road

• 794 sf, 2 bedroom mobile • New roof, new siding, new windows • New kitchen, new bath and lighting • Covered deck, quick possession

• 4 bedroom + den, 2112 sq ft home • 8.031 acres, trails and creek • 40x20 heated shop w/concrete floors • Recent updates, sellers motivated

• 10.68 acres, fenced and cross fenced • Updated mobile with addition • Drilled well, new appliances • Gardens, greenhouse, shop

• 900 sq ft well-built and clean home • 2.23 acres, 8 minutes from town • 2 bedrooms, full basement • Quick possession

• One of the best location in park • 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1994 • Open layout, bright, vaulted ceilings • Interior freshly painted, storage shed

• Great family home on 5 acres • 4 bdrm, 3 bath, office,large rec room • Double garage, large sundeck, osbe • Beautiful view of Hudson Bay Mtn

Karen Benson

Jantina Meints

mls r2017384

Jantina Meints

Jantina Meints Cell. 847-3144

Kiesha Matthews Cell. 876-8420

mls r2009039

Peter Lund Res. 847-3435

Donna Grudgfield Cell. 847-1228

mls n247647

Leo Lubbers Cell. 847-1292

Ron Lapadat Cell. 847-0335

mls n242286

Sandra Hinchliffe Cell. 847-0725

mls r2016604

Charlie McClary Cell. 877-1770

Karen Benson Cell. 847-0548

mls n247477

A26

T HREE R IVERS R EPORT

www.interior-news.com

Blending family traditions

HAZELTON’S CHAIR

New Coast Mountains School District board chair and Hazelton/ Kitwanga trustee Shar McCrory thanks Terrace trustee Art Eramus for his time as chair. He is now vice chair. Jackie Lieuwen photo

Domestic violence program for men By Alicia Bridges Hazeltons/Interior News

A new domestic violence program aimed at men will be launched in the Hazeltons after the Gitxsan Health Society

A division of

The Interior News

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

received $68,000 from the B.C. government. The funding was announced by Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister John Rustad during a visit to Hazelton on Dec. 9. See CULTURAL on A27

Gitxsan Health Society’s Better At Home Program for elders, in partnership with GHS PCAP program for young moms and tots, hosted a festive luncheon that saw Gitxsan culture melded with Christmas traditions at the Gitanmaax Hall on Dec. 2. There were about 300 participants, including elders from all the local communities, and young moms and tots to reconnect the younger generation to the elders who paved the way for upcoming generations. Family and friends of elders attended to gather in friendship and in song. Musician Tom Harris from Terrace B.C. travelled to the Hazeltons to provide songs for the participants, and musicians Dave Hockins and Jim Lakusta from Hazelton shared their talents with all. The week before this festive event, hairdressers and estheticians were brought for a wellness day and luncheon for our elders in all three communities. At the Dec. 2 event, a Gitxsenimix speaking Santa Claus posed for professional photographs with elders, young moms and their families. Better at Home (BAH) program coordinator Linda Matthews said the atmosphere was electric with all the wisdom, fellowship and sharing. The volunteers that came forward to help were phenomenal, including the GHS nursing staff and PCAP staff that stepped forward to assist with this huge event. Its success was due to all of the volunteers and staff from all the communities.

Kispiox twins meet Santa at Gitanmaax Hall.

Derek Flynn photo

BAH aims to help seniors remain in their own homes for as long as they are able by providing them non-medical support such as transportation to pay bills, grocery shopping, yard work, light home repair, snow removal and wood chopping and packing. The BAH Program is funded by the Ministry of Health and United Way Lower Mainland. The next event is on Valentine’s Day.

#UsedHelps

– Submitted by Gitxsan Health Society

The Interior News

T HREE R IVERS R EPORT

www.interior-news.com

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

A27

Program incorporates Gitxsan cultural principals From MEN on A26 GHS executive health director Julie Morrison said Be A Good Man With A Kind Heart was the first domestic violence program for men that her organization had run. “Most of our programming focuses on delivering health care programs, for one, and a lot of the programs also focus on families and young mothers, so this is a brand new thing for us to be focusing on the men,” she said. She said the program was one aspect of GHS’s efforts to help families deal with challenges and stresses. “We understand that a family is diverse and it has all different parts to it so we are trying to help the family in many, many different aspects,” she said. “This is the newest one and we are really excited to have it.” Morrison said men in the community had requested more programming for them. She hoped it would have longlasting benefits for the Hazeltons. “If we can work with the fathers now, it will provide an example for their children and change their lives, change the lives in our communities as well,” said Morrison.

Speaking to hereditary chiefs at the Gitxsan

Development Corporation on Dec. 9, Minister Rustad

said the program would incorporate Gitxsan cultural

principals. “The goal is to ensure that men have

access to prevention services and to try to curb things that are

happening around domestic violence,” he said.

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A28

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The Interior News

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

January 13-19, 2016

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