January 22 2016 by Nickel Belt News

Nickel Belt News

Volume 56 Number 3

Friday, January 22, 2016

Thompson, Manitoba

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NCN signs memorandum of understanding with province of Manitoba over natural resource planning

Nickel Belt News photo courtsy of Josh Pearlman, CPAWS Manitoba Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Deputy Chief Ron Spence (front row, centre) and councillor Willie Moore (back row, right) met with Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson (left), Premier Greg Selinger and Mineral Resources Minister Dave Chomiak (right) to sign a memorandum of understanding on traditional land use planning rights in the Nelson House area. BY KACPER ANTOSZEWSKI KACPER@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

The provincial government signed a memorandum of understanding with Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (NCN) on Jan. 18, establishing a solid framework for the development of a land-use plan within the Nelson House resource management area. The memorandum aims to place indigenous knowledge land-use practices at the forefront of the territory’s resource management framework, balancing the interests of traditional activities and economic development. In a press release, Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger states, “This important signing addresses two im-

portant goals – our government’s commitment to reconciliation with indigenous people and our commitment to Manitoba’s boreal forest and the role of indigenous communities in the ﬁght against climate change.” NCN Chief Marcel Moody notes, “We are pleased the provincial government has recognized the sustainable practices of our ancestors and we are honoured to be carrying on their tradition.” The province declined to provide a copy of the memorandum. However, it noted that the agreement features three core objectives: the co-operative development and implementation of a land-use plan, the development of work plans associated with the management

plan, and the acknowledgement that NCN should be provided with opportunities for economic development. Among the commitments made was also a pledge of up $75,000 to support the NCN Resource Management Board in its planning activities under the 1977 Northern Flood Agreement (NFA), and the 1996 NFA Implementation Agreement. This is in addition to the $60,000 previously pledged by the provincial government. The memorandum is not the ﬁrst of its kind, but it is close: in 2009, the Provincial government passed The East Side Traditional Lands Planning and Special Protected Areas Act, which outlines the process by

which First Nations groups east of Lake Winnipeg may request that swathes of Crown land be designated as a “traditional use planning area.” The agreement is far from unilateral, of course, and provides protection, and tools for cooperation for provincial authorities, First Nations claimants, and residents of the surrounding area alike.

The memorandum comes in the context of a stronger overall push towards boreal conservation and solidarity amongst northern communities; last week, Manitoba Keewnatinowi Okimaknak (MKO) chiefs gathered in Thompson to hear proposals from Pew Charitable Trusts and Community Futures North Central Development sur-

rounding a declaration of values for development in the Manitoban boreal forest. Many leaders, however, were hesitant to sign on to any such document prior to the establishment of traditional land-use plans. NCN representativescould not be reached by the Nickel Belt News for further comment prior to press time.

Correction The article “Thompson chemotherapy unit upgrades get the green light” that appeared on Page 1 of the Jan. 15 Nickel Belt News misspelt Ron Carey’s name as Ron Kerry and Shelley Carey’s name as Shelly Carey. The Nickel Belt News apologizes to the Carey family for the errors.

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Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 22, 2016

News

OBITUARIES

Manitoba Operations vice-president Lovro Paulic moving to Vale’s Indonesia division

JEAN AGNES MCIVOR (SEELA) Peacefully, on Friday January 15, 2016, Jean Agnes McIvor (Seela) passed away at the age of 81 years with her family by her side. Jean Agnes was born in Cross Lake, Manitoba, on February 22, 1934, to Thomas and Mabel McIvor. She spent her early years in Cross Lake and then ventured out to the city of Winnipeg. In Winnipeg she worked as a hostess at Town and Country, where she crossed paths with the likes of Barbara Streisand, Jimmy King, Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash. Jean Agnes spent the majority of her time in Winnipeg working in the hospitality industry, while raising her young family. Jean Agnes then returned to her home of Cross Lake continuing to raise her family, where met she met her long time companion James Mathew Muswaggon and settled into a life in Cross Lake. She worked at the Northern Store until retirement. Jean Agnes was energetic even after retirement, and was also well known in community for her baking and pizza. Jean Agnes was a very kind, compassionate, friendly lady who was well known everywhere she went. Family and friends were very important to her and she kept in touch. She enjoyed playing bingo, and telling stories. Jean Agnes could often be found knitting while watching her favorite TV program. Jean Agnes was very loving to her family and she instilled important values and morals in her children as well as a strong work ethic. She also gave advice from her experiences by sharing stories. Jean leaves to mourn her children, Thomas McIvor (Marissa Fitzner), Richard Premachuk, Deborah Ginter (Brian), Jennifer Jonas (Allen), Jeffrey Seela (Cynthia Asham). She also leaves to mourn her grandchildren, Angela McIvor (Steve Larocque), Derrick McIvor (Gloria Monias), Kimberly McIvor (Ian Taylor), Stephen Premachuk, Owen, Kyle & Georgia Ginter, Bradley Jonas (Hailey Merritt), Amanda Jonas, Steven, Kendra & Rayden Seela, Amnesty Tait, Kyle Kitchekeesik, Emily & Donovan Asham, Devie Martindale. Sister Jeannie Telfer (Wayne), Brother Gerald McIvor (Christina). Brother/Sister in law: Iona McIvor, Carl Dram, Winston Mcleod. Great grandchildren – Kelly Thomas, Maximus Larocque, Seth and Eden McIvor, Curtis Taylor, Bryson Asham. She leaves to mourn her beloved, nieces and nephews along with their spouses and their children whom she considered her grandchildren. Cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service will be held on Friday, January 22nd, 2016 at the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada, 126 Goldeye Cres, in Thompson, at 1:00pm with Pastor Abel Hall of¿ciating. Private internment will follow at a later date. In lieu of Àowers, please make donations in Jean Agnes’s memory to the Manitoba Lung Association, 1 Wesley Ave., Unit 301, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4C6.

IN MEMORY Mallory Daypuk and Damon Daypuk who passed away January 20, 2015

We love you and miss you. Your family.

Nickel Belt News ﬁle photo Vale Manitoba Operation vice-president Lovro Paulic, right, seen here in November during the announcement of a trades and technical training facility for high school and post-secondary students, is leaving Thompson for a role with Vale’s Indonesian operations expected to begin in February. BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Lovro Paulic, Vale Manitoba Operations vice-president since 2009 and a lifelong Thompsonite, is leaving his hometown for a new role as director of operations at PT Vale Indonesia in the city of Sorowako in the province of South Sulawesi. Paulic was born in Thompson and began working with what was then Inco straight out of university, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering, and has been with Manitoba Operations for 28 years altogether. The new role in Indonesia is expected to begin in February. “I am ﬁlled with mixed emotions,” Paulic told the Nickel Belt News by email. “Thompson is home. The friends I grew up with live and work here. I am part of a great team in a great community.” As there may be a gap between Paulic’s departure and the selection of a successor, the remaining members of the Manitoba Operations leadership team will take over Paulic’s duties as required in the interim, reporting directly to Conor Spollen, director of Vale’s Canadian and UK operations. “This is a tremendous opportunity for Lovro and his family and it marks a logical next step in his progression as a leader,” said Ryan Land, Vale Manitoba Operations manager of cor-

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

204-677-6995

been the toughest thing to deal with as it impacts absolutely everyone in this community either directly, indirectly or emotionally and mentally,” he said. “It puts a lot of stress on everyone. However it is also a time when we are at our best, by pulling together and doing the work necessary to beat the market.” Outside of work, Paulic says a highlight is working with many organizations in Thompson. “I have enjoyed working with and for the many groups and organizations in Thompson,” he said. “Much great work has been achieved together and will continue long into the future.” Land says it is as difﬁcult for Manitoba Operations employees to say goodbye to Paulic as it is for Paulic to leave. “I know I am not alone in suggesting that it has been a true privilege to work with Lovro and Toni, and we are all better for it,” said Land. “This said, I remain conﬁdent in the strength of our leadership team and we will carry on with the work of remaining competitive, controlling costs, improving productivity and getting better every day as we prepare to transition to mining and milling in 2018. When Lovro’s successor is named in the coming weeks, we will all support them in continuing this work.”

RCMP still looking for Grand Rapids attempted murder suspect BY IAN GRAHAM

Thompson RCMP Drug Tip Line

porate affairs and organizational development. “Lovro is the ﬁrst Thompsonite to hold the highest position in our Manitoba Operations and he was the longest-serving in this role, certainly in recent memory. As much as we know that our employees and our community will miss Lovro and [his wife] Toni, our Manitoba Operations are proud that he was asked to try to continue the good work that has happened here elsewhere in the business. He and Toni will continue to have a meaningful and positive impact in Indonesia.” “Lovro has had tremendous success transforming the Manitoba operations and we look forward to him bringing his passion for people development, his safety leadership and his rigour to cost management to the PTVI Operations,” said a Vale management bulletin distributed throughout the company. Paulic says he is proud of the safety record of Vale’s Manitoba Operations. “This year we set record lows with only 1 Lost Time Injury (LTI) for the entire year (2015) and we are currently approaching one full year without an LTI,” he said. On the other side of the equation, he says tough economic times provided some of the greatest challenges for him as vice-president and the company and community as a whole. “The low market cycle has always

Police are still looking for 22-yearold Alex Sanderson of Grand Rapids, who is wanted for an attempted murder charge related to a Dec. 11 incident in that community. RCMP believe Sanderson may be in the Grand Rapids, Winnipeg, Brandon or Easterville areas and say he should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who sees him should not approach him but call 911 or their local police detachment. The Dec. 11 shooting in Grand Rapids resulted in a gunshot injury to one man while another suffered stab wounds.

The victims received medical attention for their injuries, which were not life-threatening. The Winnipeg Police Service received a tip Dec. 13 that the other suspect, 26-year-old Charles Kelsey Ballantyne of Selkirk, was in an establishment on Keewatin Street in Winnipeg and members of the Winnipeg Police Service Tactical Unit took him into custody in the parking lot. Ballantyne was transferred to RCMP custody and is charged with aggravated assault, attempted murder without a ﬁrearm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and failure to comply with a probation order.

Police are still looking for 22-year-old Alex Sanderson of Grand Rapids, who is wanted for an attempted murder charge related to a Dec. 11 incident in that community.

Friday, January 22, 2016

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 3

News

Lakes north of Flin Flon named for RCMP and correctional officers BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Northern Manitoba lakes were recently named in honour of a police officer and a correctional officer that died in the line of duty. A lake about 45 kilometres north of Flin Flon was named Lake Strongquill in honour of RCMP Const. Dennis Strongquill, a 20year member of the force, who was shot and killed during a traffic stop near Russell in December 2001. “All Manitobans remember the tragic loss of Const. Strongquill and it is truly our honour to permanently create a place that will recognize his life and ultimate

sacrifice,” said Conservation and Water Stewardship Minister Tom Nevakshonoff in a Jan. 18 press release. “Const. Strongquill dedicated his life to protecting the people of Manitoba and making our communities safer,” said Assistant Commissioner Kevin Brosseau, RCMP “D” Division commanding officer. “The naming of Lake Strongquill is a humbling honour and will ensure that his sacrifice is never forgotten.” A lake in the same general area was named for Rhonda Commodore, a correctional officer at The Pas Correctional Centre since 2000 who died in a car ac-

cident while transporting prisoners to Dauphin in November 2014. She is the first correctional officer in Manitoba to have a lake named in her honour. “Naming a lake in Rhonda Commodore’s honour, and thereby recognizing for eternity her contributions to community safety and service, is a very special and appropriate gesture in remembering her,” said Michelle Gawronsky, president of the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union, which represents correctional officers. “It is comforting that now all Manitobans, including her extended family as

well as her correctional officer family, have one more reason to think of and cherish her and keep her memory alive.” “Ms. Commodore served with pride and commitment, and her loss was keenly felt by her family, especially her young son, as well as her community and the people who worked with her every day,” said Nevakshonoff. “Manitoba’s peace officers put their lives at risk to protect us,” said Attorney General Gord Mackintosh. “It is very fitting to name a piece of our province after those we have lost, ensuring their names will live on.”

Mystery Lake students offered free bus rides for January BY KACPER ANTOSZEWSKI KACPER@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

The School District of Mystery Lake (SDML) has once again offered free bus rides for students of all ages for the month of

January. SDML students can travel up to twice a day, two and from school, at the beginning and end of the day. The program’s timing is convenient, as winter temperatures return to tem-

peratures somewhat closer to the seasonal average. Funding for the program is provided by the SDML, and will be billed according to usage. In conjunction with the City of Thompson,

the school district has also established an ad hoc committee to monitor demographics and usage trends, in order to better serve the student community and encourage public transit use.

Mathias Colomb to purchase Hudson Bay Railway and Port of Churchill BY KACPER ANTOSZEWSKI KACPER@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Mathias Colomb Cree Nation formally announced it’s intent to purchase the Hudson Bay Railway and the Port of Churchill from Omnitrax Canada, in a press conference hosted in Winnipeg on Jan. 15. Mathias Colomb Cree Nation (MCCN) Chief Arlen Dumas was joined by Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MK)0 Grand Chief Sheila North Wilson and Omnitrax Canada president Merv Tweed to discuss MCCNs intentions for the future of the port and rail line. The two parties currently remain within a 45-day period of due diligence, during which details of the sale will be resolved, and after which the sale will be finalized. “The way we’ve been doing business in the north is a convention of an outdated time,” Dumas stated, “whereas we bring forward an opportunity to do things in a meaningful way, and use the various strengths and leverage we have afforded to us. We bring forward our desire to protect the environment, and to provide support and services to our communities.“ Dumas noted that the First Nations group already has considerable experience in operating a number of transport and infrastructure ventures, including Keewatin Railways, which factored into their decision to continue to invest into the railway “We’ve had very tangible success, from our First Nations perspective, in how we move forward in various economic activities that we’ve participated in. We’ve operated a successful airline, we have a construction company, we have created

arrangements with other allies and other companies, and the experience that we’re bringing forward will be different than what has been done before, because we have lived the experience of living in the north. That’s why it’s very important that everyone realize that this initiative we’re taking on is historic, is not conventional.” Despite its successes, however, Dumas acknowledges that the venture will be a significantly larger venture than MCCN has undertaken before, and will require co-operation among several parties. “I’m proud to say that never before have we had so many educated First Nations people, so many skilled people available. But in the north, our companies are very youthful, and there needs to be a strategy as to how we will be training and developing that workforce as we move forward, and we’re going to need those people who have that corporate knowledge and the skill set to move forward.” Both federal and provincial governments are involved in discussions to support the development of the railway, though Dumas noted it was too early to speak with confidence regarding what form that support might take. When pressed, he stressed that funding was only one part of MCCN’s multitude of concerns: “The federal government has made statements that there is a commitment to the north, and a desire to move our communities forward, and our nation forward, for that matter. It’s important to say that we can’t just focus on money; our main focus is the people. I want to make sure that all of the people in War Lake, Split Lake, Gillam, all

have access to the railway.” This echoes sentiments previously expressed by Tweed, who believed that the rail belonged with an organization that could effectively run the rail as an essential service, rather than simply as a for-profit enterprise. For communities like War Lake, the railway represents the only all-season route in and out of the community; with most winter roads having yet to open, the railway’s importance has never been more evident. North Wilson congratulated MCCN on their initiative. “It’s an example of strength and innovative ingenuity that this community and its leadership have. We have a lot of strength and power in the north that’s untapped, including our people. This is part of the future in Northern Manitoba and MKO territory, and we’re glad to see partners coming in to look at the possibilities of creating a better future of the north.” Tweed also expressed his confidence that the rail and port were being passed into good hands: “My objective was to make the railway and the port work more efficiently, and how to diversify. About a year ago, we came to the conclusion was that one of the ways for this railway to operate and be successful was to have local ownership. We reached out to the First Nations communities, and Chief Dumas became engaged with us very early, and we were really impressed with what he and his communities have been able to accomplish. I think this is really just returning the railway to its natural ownership, and we’re fully supportive of it.”

thompsoncitizen.net

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MA-MOW-WE-TAK FRIENDSHIP CENTRE The Board and Staff of Ma-Mow-We-Tak Friendship Centre would like to extend a huge THANK YOU to the following businesses and organizations. Your continued generosity and support contributes to the success of our annual Christmas events and is truly appreciated. Arctic Beverages Calm Air International Giant Tiger Lambert’s Paint and Carpet Centre N.C Crossroads Lanes Crazy Pete’s Moffatt Supply Stittco Arctic Trading Post Chicken Chef

McDonald’s Restaurant R.A. Distributing Twin Motors Burntwood Hotel Mystery Lake Autobody Thompson Airport Authority Norman Glass Northland Tire Arnason Distributors A & B Builders

THANK YOU! On behalf of the trappers of Manitoba our sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of the 2015 Fur Tables. All Seasons Parts • Arctic Trading Post • Burntwood Hotel • Canadian Tire • City Centre Mall • City of Thompson • Days Inn & Suites •Family Goods • Giant Tiger • Home Building Centre • KFC Chicken Village • Lakeview Hotels • Manitoba Hydro • McDonalds • Mystery Lake Hotel • NAFA • Nickel City Motors • Pocket Lake Furs • Ricks Marine • Safeway 4832 • Sears Canada Inc • Sling Choker • Spirit Way Inc • The Brick • Thompson Chamber of Commerce • Thompson Regional Airport Authority • Thompson Trail Breakers • Thompson Unlimited •Twin Motors • UCWL (catering) • United Rentals • Vale • Weber Supply • Wilsons Business Solutions Donors will be advertised in the Canadian Trapper Magazine. We look forward to your continued support for The 2016 Fur Table scheduled for December 17th and 18th.

Manitoba Trappers Association (204) 345-9107

Faculty of Social Work

Northern Social Work Program The University of Manitoba, Faculty of Social Work at Thompson is now accepting applications for the Northern Social Work Program. The deadline for submitting applications is March 1, 2016. The program is scheduled to begin September 2016. Students may complete the Northern Social Work Program as a full-time or part-time student. The program provides post-secondary education for Residents of Northern Manitoba, in particular those who have not had the opportunity due to economic and cultural reasons, lack of formal education, linguistic barriers or residence in remote areas. Relocation to Thompson will be required. Individuals can apply either under ACCESS or EXTERNAL categories. The ACCESS category is for mature students, 21 years or over, who have under 30 credit hours of university level courses. The EXTERNAL category is for regular students who have 30 credit hours or more of university level courses and are in good academic standing. For both categories, applicants must have resided in Northern Manitoba for 6 months or more prior to the application deadline or have been a long term resident of the North. For information or applications contact the Faculty of Social Work at Thompson at 204-677-1450 or No Charge Dial 1-866-237-5509 or visit http://umanitoba.ca/faculties/ social_work/programs/northern/591.html

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Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 22, 2016

News

Province will study potential for offering rural and northern bus services BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

The provincial government announced Jan. 19 – the last day before a 90-day preelection blackout on such announcements began – that it would launch a transportation study in hopes of restoring bus service to northern and rural Manitobans. “We are committed to finding a solution to the lack of bus service in the province that will create government efficiencies and provide public transportation,” said Transportation Minister Steve Ashton in a press release. “This study will give us help from an independent expert to suggest how to develop an efficient service that reduces government travel costs while restoring

service for the public.” Bus service to rural and northern communities has been dying a slow death since at least 2009, when Greyhound announced its intention to eliminate a money-losing Thompson to Flin Flon route that ran three days a week and had seen ridership decline 16 per cent in the previous ﬁve years. Less than two months after that, the company announced plans to cease all operations in Manitoba within 30 days. That drastic action did not go through and the company entered negotiations with the province that ultimately led to the province agreeing to provide $3.12 million for the company to continue providing service for one more year while working toward a long-term

Documentary critical of Hudbay now on YouTube FLIN FLON REMINDER

A documentary film taking aim at Hudbay’s legacy and U.S. expansion plans has been released online. Flin Flon Flim Flam, the work of American filmmaker John Dougherty, recently hit YouTube following screenings in southern Arizona. It had 775 views as of Thursday morning. As The Reminder reported in November, the film examines Hudbay’s pollution in the Flin Flon region, First Nations resistance to northern Manitoba projects and allegations of violence in Guatemala. The film further explores opposition to both the Constancia mine in Peru and the proposed Rosemont mine in Arizona. “I believe this documentary provides the public with important insights into

the worldwide operations of Hudbay Minerals that no one else has or would have provided,” Dougherty told The Reminder. But Hudbay pointed out the ﬁlm was funded by Farmers Investment Co. (FICO), an Arizona-based company that opposes the proposed Rosemont mine. The end credits name FICO as a funder, with no other funders listed. The company was “unable to see how a fair and balanced outcome was possible in a video paid for by opponents of Rosemont,” said Scott Brubacher, director of corporate communications for Hudbay. Dougherty dismissed those concerns, saying FICO had no editorial control or direction in the production. To view the ﬁlm, visit YouTube and search for “Flin Flon Flim Flam.”

Have you ever dreamed of owning your own business? The SELF-EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM (SE)

is designed to assist unemployed northerners create jobs for themselves by starting their own business You may be eligible if you meet one of the following criteria: unemployed or underemployed, collecting EI beneﬁts, have had an EI claim in the past 3 years, have had a maternity claim in the past 5 years, or are in receipt of Employment and Income Assistance.

For more information or to make an appointment call Community Futures North Central Development at 204-677-1490 or toll free at 1-888-303-2232 www.northcentraldevelopment.ca

Funding provided by: The Government of Canada Employment Insurance Account and The Province of Manitoba Growing communities one idea at a time.

Nickel Belt News

Published weekly by Prairie Newspaper Group of 141 Commercial Place, Thompson, Manitoba, R8N 1T1. The Nickel Belt News is owned and operated by Prairie Newspaper Group, a subsidiary of Glacier Media Inc. Advertising rates are available upon request and are subject to change without notice. Conditions of editorial and advertisement content: The

* It was beloved American astrophysicist and science communicator Carl Sagan who made the following sage observation: “If it can be destroyed by the truth, it deserves to be destroyed by the truth.” * Parents of younger children probably will not be surprised by the following factoid: Six eight-stud Lego bricks can be put together in a whopping 915,103,765 different ways -and at least one of those bricks will end up being stepped on by a barefoot adult. * Some ancient Greeks believed that baldness could be cured by applying to the hairless area a mixture of horseradish and pigeon droppings. * If you’re planning a trip to Nevada, you might want to keep in mind that in that state, it is technically illegal to kiss if you have a mustache. (c) 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.

solution. That agreement was later extended for another year until the end of 2012. In July 2012, Greyhound stopped providing service on a number of routes, including from Thompson to Flin Flon or to Lynn Lake, from Cross Lake to Norway House and from Split Lake to Gillam. Trips between Flin Flon and Winnipeg were reduced to one trip daily. Daytime buses from Thompson to Winnipeg stopped running last March, along with Thompson-Cross Lake buses on Fridays and Sundays, Thompson to Gillam buses on Sundays and service between Flin Flon and Winnipeg on Saturdays. The province, which relies on buses to provide transportation for people seeking

medical care who do not have a car or cannot afford to pay additional fees to ﬂy back and forth to Winnipeg, believes that contracting bus service to some communities could help it save money on those services and help provision of bus service be provided on a cost-neutral basis. “Today we are starting the process to bring this initiative closer to reality,” said Ashton. “The consultant will look at the particulars of potential routes, schedules, drop-off and pickup locations, parcel express service and all other elements that are necessary to determine precisely what will be contracted out to carriers. The goal is to offer public transportation that is fully accessible and is cost neutral.”

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THOMPSON? WHITEWATER KAYAKING PROGRAM: Introduction to whitewater kayaking at the Norplex Pool, taught by certified kayak instructors. Kayak rolling clinics are also offered. Introduction courses cover paddling strokes, upside down exit techniques, rescue skills and the kayak roll. Courses begin in October 2015, but you can join at any time. All equipment is provided. Ages 8 and up. Contact Ben at (204) 778-9940 to sign up. THE NRHA PROVIDES FREE EVENING PRENATAL CLASSES throughout the year. Please do not miss out on this opportunity to learn about Labor, Breastfeeding, Newborn Care and tour our Hospital. Classes are facilitated by a Public Health Nurse. All pregnant women in their third trimester of pregnancy and a support person are welcome to attend. Please telephone Michelle at (204) 677-5382 or PHN Angela at (204) 778-1550 to register or for more information. ARE YOU PREGNANT? STRUGGLING WITH USE OF EITHER ALCOHOL OR DRUGS? InSight Mentoring can help. This is a free service available to women that are pregnant or may have given birth in the past year. InSight Mentoring can help you identify your goals and help you achieve them. Please call 204-677-5372 or 204-778-1521 between 8:30-4:30 pm for more information. THE CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY is promoting Radon testing in your home. Radon is an invisible, odourless and tasteless radioactive gas that occurs when the uranium in soil and rock breaks down. Your local Canadian Cancer Society rep is available to give presentations on radon. For more information contact her at 204-677-3464 or visit the Cancer Society website at www.cancer.ca/radon. IF YOUR LOVED ONE or friend has a problem with alcohol, and you need help, join the Alanon group meeting at 1079 Cree Rd at the Nickel Group trailer, across from Co-op Gas, Wed at 8 pm. Call Wendy at 204-778-7841 for information. SUFFER FROM ANXIETY/DEPRESSION? A support group will be starting again, can you give an hour or two of your time to get some help? Learning and helping each other does work. Let’s join together and get back our health. Phone Barbara at 204-778-6306 at Anxiety Disorders of Manitoba. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 1079 Cree Road (Nickel Group) across from Co-op Gas bar. If you drink that’s your business. If you want to quit that’ our business. We can help. For more info call 204-677-4696 or 204-778-7986.

Submit your own community events to events@thompsoncitizen.net or visit thompsoncitizen.net/events-calendar

Nickel Belt News attempts to be accurate in editorial and advertising content; however no guarantee is given or implied. The Nickel Belt News reserves the right to revise or reject any or all editorial and advertising content as the newspaper’s principals see fit. The Nickel Belt News will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion of an advertisement, and is not responsible for errors or omissions in advertisements except for the space occupied by such errors. The Nickel Belt News will not be responsible for manuscripts, photographs, negatives and other related material that may be submitted for possible publication.

All of the Nickel Belt News’s content is protected by Canadian Copyright laws. Reviews and similar mention of material in this newspaper is granted on the provision that the Nickel Belt News receives credit. Otherwise, any reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. Advertisers purchase space and circulation only. Rights to any advertisements produced by the Nickel Belt News, including artwork, typography, photos, etc., remain the property of this newspaper. Advertisements or parts thereof may not be reproduced or assigned without the consent of the publisher.

Friday, January 22, 2016

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 5

Columnists

Rising food prices nothing new for Manitobans living in the north BY STEFAN EPP-KOOP Experiencing some sticker shock in the grocery store? You’re not alone. Families spent an average of $325 more on food in 2015 than a year earlier. Over this coming year, a report from the University of Guelph says households can anticipate another similar increase to their grocery bill. What is even more alarming is that fruits and vegetables, the cornerstones of a healthy diet, are the foods

most vulnerable to currency ﬂuctuation as 81 per cent of all vegetable and fruits consumed in Canada are imported. This impacts the ability of many Manitobans to access healthy foods. People are forced to make difﬁcult decisions as they try to stretch their grocery budget. Yet high food prices are nothing new to Northern Manitobans. In Manitoba’s urban centres, a family of four spends

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an average of $8,000 on food every year. The same groceries would cost $14,300 in Fox Lake Cree Nation and a whopping $23,296 in Shamattawa. And the price of groceries isn’t the only barrier that Manitobans living in the north face in getting healthy, affordable food. Many northern communities, like Fox Lake Cree Nation, don’t have a grocery store of their own. Residents have to make the 45-minute drive to Gillam to pick up most food items. Despite, or perhaps because of, these challenges Northern Manitobans are reclaiming food skills essential for building healthy futures. In South Indian Lake, a community of almost 800 people located over a six-and-a-half-hour drive north of Thompson, a country food program supports wild food gathering activities such as hunting, ﬁshing and medicine harvesting. The program provides food for elders, single parents and low-income community members. In addition, the program employs high school students,

helping them to gain the tools and resources needed to access their own good food. The country food program in South Indian Lake is just one example of how communities across Manitoba’s north are facing the challenge of accessing food. At Food Matters Manitoba we believe all Manitobans deserve a chance to get the healthy food they need. We are partnering with communities to make sure everyone can get the good food they deserve. Together, we are making food more available and affordable with local gardens and greenhouses and teaching kids and families how to prepare healthy meals at community cooking classes. Kids from Shamattawa are getting their hands in the dirt and learning how to grow their own food. By learning to garden, community members learn new skills and gain a healthy and affordable way of getting food. Families living in Sherridon are raising their own chickens both for meat and eggs. They’re looking for

Stefan Epp-Koop is the acting executive director of Food Matters Manitoba. new ways to get healthy meat and learn new skills. And hunters in Lac Brochet distribute traditional food to elders and families in need. They store their ﬁsh, caribou and berries in a community freezer. We believe that together we can make Manitoba a healthier place, where everyone has good food. Rising prices can be a

reminder to all of us that many Manitobans struggle to access the healthy foods that they need, especially in regions of our province paying two or three times as much for food. To learn more about Food Matters Manitoba and our community-based good food work in northern Manitoba, visit foodmattersmanitoba.ca.

Up to a quarter of taxes from new mines will be shared with indigenous communities, province says BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

The provincial government says it will share up to 25 per cent of mining taxes from new mines with indigenous communities, one of the recommendations of the Minister’s Mining Advisory Council (MMAC), formed in 2013. “Indigenous communities that want to participate in the mineral resources industry will be partners every step of the way as new mines are brought on line and they will share in the beneﬁts of resource development,” said Mineral Resources Minister Dave Chomiak in a Jan. 15 news release. “There will be new training opportunities, good jobs, revenue sharing and a range of social and economic beneﬁts

for indigenous communities. This will also send an important message to those who want to invest in Manitoba’s mining sector that we’re open for business.” This revenue sharing will be in addition to continued support of the MMAC, which brings government, First Nations and mining industry leadership together for collaborative decision-making to improve indigenous participation in mining, the secondlargest primary resource industry in Manitoba and one of the biggest employers of indigenous people in the province’s north. The MMAC has also established the First Nation Mining Economic Development Corporation and released guidelines for industry and

First Nations on mineral exploration and aboriginal engagement. Manitoba is also discussing Métis participation in the mining industry with the Manitoba Metis Federation. “The work of the advisory council has already developed meaningful consultation processes, is building stronger, more respectful relationships with First Nation communities and has begun to increase First Nation decision-making,” said Chief Ron Evans of Norway House Cree Nation and co-chair of the MMAC. “Being at the table has ensured a strong voice for our communities, employment opportunities and direct participation in economic development by our people.”

In 2014, metal and industrial mineral production in Manitoba had a combined value of $1.3 billion and supported 3,200 jobs. The province’s six mines produce all of Canada’s cesium, about 12 per cent of the country’s nickel, 23.6 per cent of its zinc, 5.5 per cent of its copper, 2.4 per cent of its gold and 5.6 per cent of Canada’s silver. “Supporting Manitoba to become a top jurisdiction for mining and mineral exploration will benefit us all,” said Rob Winton, MMAC co-chair. “Forums such as this have helped significantly improve the mutual understanding of our issues and opportunities, making it clear that together, we are better.”

Page 6

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 22, 2016

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Valentine’s Day Special Pick up the Thompson Citizen and Nickel Belt News February 10 & 12 to find out where the best Valentine’s Day Deals will be available!

Also, if you have a Valentine message for that special someone, send it to us and we’ll include it in the special for FREE! Submit messages to

cupid@thompsoncitizen.net by 4:30 pm Friday, February 5. We reserve the right to edit messages we deem inappropriate.

Finance, Investment & Tax Guide February 3, 2016 The Thompson Citizen is producing a special section on finance, investment and tax tips everyone should know during the investment season. If you have any questions or concerns about your finances, this is the perfect resource for you. We’ll have tips and information directly from local professionals, along with their contact info to make it easy to get in touch for any further questions you may have. If you’re in a finance-related business and would like an opportunity to advertise in this special, contact Ashley at ashley@thompsoncitizen.net or Bhawna at bvarma@thompsoncitizen.net or call 204-677-4534

Friday, January 22, 2016

Nickel Belt News â&#x20AC;˘ www.thompsoncitizen.net

Columnists

Page 7

A backpack Christmas A heartwarming story played out locally over Christmas and it seems worthy of sharing. In late November, Snow Lakeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Judy Peterson related in passing how proud she was of her grandson and the social responsibility that he displays at the early age of 13. I asked her to expand and when she did, it was plain to see where her grandson got it and how it was passed along. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When my children were younger, we always went to the mall in The Pas at Christmas time and they got to pick a tag off the tree that speciďŹ ed the sex and age of a child that was in a situation where they would not receive a Christmas gift,â&#x20AC;? Peterson began. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My children understood what this meant.â&#x20AC;? Ms. Peterson also explained that as a family, they donated money to the local â&#x20AC;&#x153;hamper driveâ&#x20AC;? that took place on The Pasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; radio station. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These were hampers of food donated to families in need,â&#x20AC;? said Peterson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So I feel this is where the seed was planted with my daughter.â&#x20AC;? You see, Petersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daughter Sarah had always felt the desire to give to other people, either in need or those who were elderly. When she was in Girl Guides and her troupe would visit a local seniorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; residence, Sarah it seemed, was always the last to leave. When she became an adult, her spirit of giving grew. She volunteered at Winnipegâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Siloam Mission and her son Ethen would go with her from time to time; here, he saw ďŹ rsthand the many people who needed and beneďŹ ted from the missionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s help. Expanding further, Peterson said that daughter Sarah runs a day care in her home and this past Christmas she took the time and opportunity to have the children she cares for make Christmas cards. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sarah found out how many residents there were in this particular nursing home in Brandon and had the kids make enough cards for every one of them,â&#x20AC;? said Peterson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They made 42 cards, I believe. This is a pretty big deal for threeand four-year-olds!â&#x20AC;?

My Take on Snow Lake mjaxon@gillamnet.com Marc Jackson Eventually, the occasion arose and one day in December, they set off for a visit to the nursing home. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sarah said it turned out so well,â&#x20AC;? Peterson said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She said one of the elderly women actually cried when one of the little ones gave her the Christmas card made by her small hands and given from her heart. One other resident, wanting so badly to show her gratitude, she gave them all bananas! She had squirreled them away in different drawers in her suite and I guess she felt she just had to give them something in return. Sarah said it was very sweet.â&#x20AC;? Continuing on, Peterson stated that living in Brandon, her grandson Ethen goes to a skatepark with his friends after school. The park is across from an area where homeless people congregate. She says that Ethen and his friends sometimes bring a pizza or something similar with them and would offer it to the homeless folks across from the park. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ethen in particular, would give drinks or granola bars and the like to one particular man at the park,â&#x20AC;? said Peterson with obvious pride. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So he is starting to have the same calling as his mom.â&#x20AC;? Peterson further explained that the mother of one of her grandsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friends is a volunteer within a program called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bannock in the Park.â&#x20AC;? As Brandonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soup kitchen does not operate on the weekends, this group provides soup and bannock to the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homeless people on Sundays. A few weeks before Christmas, Ethen told his mother that he thought it would be a good idea to also put together a backpack or two for some of the park people. So Sarah and Ethen went

about collecting clothing, as did Peterson at home in Snow Lake. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I bought a few backpacks from Second Glance and Sarah and Ethen had a few as well,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We collected hats and some other warm articles of clothing. We then went to the store and purchased, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, socks, mitts, juice, chocolate bars, combs, and a few other necessities; enough articles to ďŹ ll the backpacks. Ethen was pretty particular when packing them.â&#x20AC;? The weekend before Christmas, Ethen, his mom, and grandmother headed off to the park to deliver the backpacks and some other warm clothing they had collected. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The lady operating the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bannock in the Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; program was there unloading her van, so we jumped in to help her,â&#x20AC;? said Peterson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She opened up the van and I saw a big clear garbage bag full of shoes. Not winter shoes, but running shoes. Seeing this bag of shoes was for some reason a real eye opener for me. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect the ďŹ&#x201A;ood of emotions that came over me!â&#x20AC;? Nevertheless, they brought out the backpacks theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d put together and took them over to a table that was set up. Before theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d ďŹ nished, a man had walked over and was looking in one of the bags for something warm to put on. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He had just come from church and was cold,â&#x20AC;? said Peterson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We ďŹ nished unloading and as we drove away I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop thinking about this man. Hoping that he had found a warm jacket to ďŹ t him out of the bag of extra clothing we had brought. I wanted to turn back and point out a bag that I knew had a jacket in it that would ďŹ t him.â&#x20AC;? Peterson says seeing

Two running for vacant Snow Lake council seat BY MARC JACKSON SPECIAL TO THE NICKEL BELT NEWS

The Town of Snow Lake has provided notice that two people have filed nomination papers for a byelection that will fill the seat on the seven-member council left vacant when former Councilor Aldon Kowalchuk suddenly resigned at the outset of December 2015.Â Those running for the seat are former multi-term councillor and business owner Dave Mayer and former school board member Penny Roberts, who is married to current councillor Peter Roberts.Â Voting takes place between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Feb. 17 in the Snow Lake Town Office.

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of Judy Peterson Sarah Erickson and son Ethen Demchynski with backpacks for the homeless. that bag of shoes made her realize just how much her own family has. How they were able to drive back to her daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home â&#x20AC;Ś a warm house with a Christmas tree, a multitude of gifts, food, laughter and security. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It made me so

grateful â&#x20AC;Ś I was very humbled, and so very proud of my grandson for his own grateful and giving heart,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So, next year our plan is a blanket drive. I plan to advertise, focusing on the very giving people of

Snow Lake, and whoever else, to donate any old blankets or warm clothing they have, which will be given as gifts to these people in need. This is something that will be so rewarding for everyone involved,â&#x20AC;? Peterson said.

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Page 8

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Friday, January 22, 2016

News

Provincial Liberals pledge $15 million per year for First Nations housing if elected BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Manitoba’s Liberal party is pledging to provide $15 million for housing construction in northern First Nations communities per year if elected as the government in April. The funding would increase in subsequent years once the budget was balanced, party leader Rana Bokhari told reporters in Winnipeg Jan. 18. “This is our commitment to those communities that we will work with you in partnership to make sure that your communities have the housing requirements they need,” said Bokhari. “Basic necessities of life. Nobody should be struggling for that.” The Liberal leader said the housing situation in Manitoba First Nations communities, including many in the province’s north, is an embarrassment and that it isn’t good enough for the province to wait for the federal government before taking action. “Manitoba has been

facing a humanitarian crisis in our First Nations communities,” said Bokhari. “One of the biggest embarrassments for our province in terms of government is the fact that they’ve never addressed the housing crisis and taken a leadership role and that they’ve always waited for the federal government to come on board. The Manitoba Liberal party is taking leadership role in this and regardless of whether or not the feds are on board or not, which I believe they will be, we are committed to taking and addressing the First Nations northern communities housing crisis head on. This is a humanitarian issue and Manitobans are Manitobans are Manitobans and the fact that we feel like it’s OK to play political football with people’s lives living just a few kilometres north, it’s unacceptable and our generation will not accept that and our party will not accept that.” Decisions about where the money will be spent will be made in consul-

tation with leaders from communities in dire need of housing, says Bokhari. “We’re going to get people at the table and that’s why some of the community leaders are here [at the announcement] today because we’re going to start that conversation about what exactly that looks like in terms of housing,” she said. “That’s why the candidates are here as well because they’re somewhat of our northern caucus and they will be taking the lead on all of this.” And while waiting for the federal government to come to the table before taking action is not an option, Bokhari said she feels Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government will be a willing partner in improving housing on First Nations. “I have every bit of confidence in our federal government,” the provincial Liberal leader said. “I believe in the fact that they understand that this is a crisis now and we just can’t keep doing the same thing over.”

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of Manitoba Liberal Party Manitoba Liberal party leader Rana Bokhari says her party will spend $15 million a year to help improve housing on northern First Nations if her party wins the most seats in this April’s provincial election.

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Friday, January 22, 2016

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 9

News

Frontier School Division carpentry students will build eight homes in four years BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Northern students earning credits toward high school graduation and hours towards level 1 and level 2 carpentry apprenticeships will construct eight homes over the next four years for communities that Frontier School Division serves, provincial Housing and Community Development Minister Mohinder Saran announced Jan. 19. “Through this initiative, students will get to

work on projects and earn apprenticeship training while building homes for families,” said Saran. “By expanding opportunities for skills training, we are helping students make a real difference in Northern Manitoba.” Adult carpentry students at the Northern Technical Centre (NTC) at Frontier Collegiate Institute (FCI) have already helped provide housing in Cranberry Portage. As part of Frontier School Division’s Readyto-Move (RTM) project, the

students built two ready-tomove homes in Cranberry Portage with support from Manitoba Housing and Community Development. The carpentry students and their instructors also constructed basements for the three-bedroom family homes, which are located on Lake Trout Bay. The project cost $484,000 and the resulting homes will be rented to low- to moderateincome families with the monthly rent pegged to the families’ incomes. Two homes – one ready

Shamattawa and Northlands getting recreational funding

to move and one site-built are being built for Cormorant in the 2015-16 school year. The ready-to-move home is being built at the Frontier School Division’s off-campus Egg Lake facility that provides alternative educational opportunities for students aged 15 to 21. Two homes will be built each year for the next four years, the province said. “Each new home built by our students will be located in a community served by Frontier School Division,” said Reg Klas-

EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Sports and recreation organizations in Shamattawa and Northlands Dene First Nation are among 10 in northern and rural communities receiving funding from the provincial government. Shamattawa Together Achieving Reaching Stars is receiving money to buy equipment to improve its community youth mentoring program and Northlands Dene First Nation is getting money to purchase outdoor sports equipment. “Providing quality programs and facilities makes it easier for Manitobans to participate in ﬁtness and sport as part of healthy lifestyles,” Children and Youth Opportunities Minister Melanie Wight said in a press release. “Residents of all ages will beneﬁt from the enhanced facilities, programs and community pride made possible by this funding.”

vided more than 50,000 hours of training to more than 100 students since the partnership to build the Cranberry Portage homes, which were completed in 2014, began in 2012. “This program is engaging students and capturing their interest, helping them stay in school and learn marketable skills that will make a real difference in their lives,” said Saran. “I look forward to seeing these completed homes for families in need in communities across the north.”

Islanders and North Stars outgunned on the road in KJHL BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

BY IAN GRAHAM

sen, chief superintendent of Frontier School Division, which operates schools in the regions around Thompson, Dauphin, Cranberry Portage and Norway House. “This will help strengthen ties, provide economic opportunities and address the need for quality family housing. But most exciting of all, is that each new home is a demonstration of how local students’ education and training can beneﬁt their home communities.” The program has pro-

The Cross Lake Islanders and Norway House North Stars received a rude reception on the road in Peguis, Fisher River and Lundar Jan. 15-17. The Islanders gave up four third period goals to the Peguis Juniors Jan. 15 in a 6-3 loss. Cross Lake had led 3-2 coming into the ﬁnal frame after second period goals from Braedan Boschman and Tie Braun. Jameson Scott had given the Islanders a 1-0 lead in

the ﬁrst before Peguis tied the game and then went ahead with power play goals in the ﬁrst and second periods. Scott was the only Islander to score Jan. 16 in Lundar as the Lundar Falcons soared to a 9-1 victory. Antoni Grieves and Darrian Sinclair had goals for the Norway House North Stars in a 9-2 loss to the Fisher River Hawks on Jan. 15 which saw the winners outshoot them 79-35. The following day it was Grieves, Sinclair, Karlyle

Mader-Knutson and Blake Knutson getting goals for the North Stars in a 17-4 loss to Peguis. The road trip concluded with a 21-2 loss to the Juniors Jan. 17, with Corbin Tait and Conley Spence scoring the goals for Norway House, who were outshot 80-25. The Islanders are third in the Keystone Junior Hockey League’s North Division with a 13-14 record while the North Stars are last in the division with one win and 27 losses.

Friday, January 22 , 2016

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

CLASSIFIED@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET 201 • SERVICES

Tire Sales & Service Passenger - Light Truck - ATV Trailer - RV - Golf Carts - Forestry - Retreads - Section Repairs - Tubes Wheel Balancing - Repairs

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90 Hayes Rd. Thompson, MB Phone 677-3925 or Toll Free 1-877-677-9955

FREE COMPUTER TRAINING for women. Steps to Success at the YWCA Thompson is pleased to offer Power Up, a basic computer class for women January 2529, 4:00 - 7:00. Please call 204-6775016 to register. 3nb-1-nb

505 • HOUSES FOR SALE 64 EIDER BAY completely renovated inside and out. Asking $249,000. Open house every Sunday 12 noon- 2 pm until sold. Text 204-679-6831 for more information. 1nb-gcd-6

510 • RETAIL/ OFFICE SPACE

FOR RENT 2000 square foot store front space for rent. Comes with garage bay with 10’ x 10’ overhead door. Electric forced air/AC. mrplumb@mts.net. 204-677-2013. 37nb-TFN-nb

301 • HELP WANTED FOR RENT DOAK’S BULK FUELS is looking for a truck driver/yard person. Class 1-3 with air brakes is preferred but will take a class 5. $22/hour. Phone 204-677-2150 or 204-307-0719. 3nb-2-d MIHKAN HOLDINGS is looking for full time maintenance for apartment complex. Renovation experience necessary. Plumbing and electrical experience an asset. Duties include regular repairs, suite renovation, and summer/winter yard care. Drop off your resume in person: 59 Fox Bay, Thompson, MB R8N 1E9 2nb-2 nb THUMPER AUTO SERVICE is looking for a mechanic/mechanic’s helper. Must have experience. Drop resume off to Derek at 3-33 Severn Cres. 43nb-tfn-nb

1400 square foot bay. Overhead 10’ x 10’ door. Electric heat.

Hudbay 2016 prospecting plans zero in on Lalor Mine BY JONATHON NAYLOR FLIN FLON REMINDER

Hudbay is scaling back exploration in Northern Manitoba this year, allotting $5 million for prospecting that will focus on the Lalor Mine. It’s part of a company-wide exploration plan, unveiled Wednesday amid continued weak metal prices, worth a projected $11 million before capitalization. “Exploration activities in Manitoba will focus on targets within the Lalor mine in Snow Lake,” Hudbay announced in a news release that outlined its production targets and exploration plans for 2016. The Lalor work will include continued drilling of the exploration potential of gold zones from the 865-metre-level exploration drift, the company said. Pending complete results from last year’s work, Hudbay said exploration may continue on the down plunge potential of the copper-gold zones from the 955- to 1,025-metre-

Contact 204-677-2013 1nb-TFN-nb

OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE 500-5000 sq ft. available. Cameron/Hoe building 81 Churchill Drive. Contact Joe Aniceto. 204-679-0490 or Neil Cameron 306-477-5668. 19nb-tfn-nb 2 COMMERCIAL SPACES for Rent One - 1,300 sq ft with storefront location, retail or ofﬁce Two - 1,600 sq ft, ideal for light industrial or commercial use, easy load & unload & parking access, very reasonable rates. Call 204-6772957 or 250-491-3946. 19nb-tfn-nb

302 • BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Be Your Own Boss & Join a Winning Team GREAT CANADIAN DOLLAR STORE franchise opportunities are available in your area. Explore your future with a dollar store leader. Call today 1-877-388-0123 ext. 229. www.dollarstores.com COMMERCIAL LAUNDRY & DRY cleaners. Coveral & mat rental business. 5000 sq ft building (new roof 2013) 145 Hayes Road. Satellite store at Thompson Plaza. 9nb-tfn-nb

501 • HOUSES FOR RENT EXECUTIVE HOUSE for rent in the Burntwood area. 3400 square feet, 4 bedroom, 3 and a half bath, $2500 + utilities per month. Please call 204679-0828. 50nb-gcd-3-d

502 • APT/TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT 11 FOX BAY APARTMENTS Bachelors, one and two bedrooms for rent. For more information please call after 5 pm: LORIE LANDERS 204 648 7073

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Church Services CHRISTIAN COUNCIL DIRECTORY

Page 10

LIVING WATER CHURCH Pastor Archie McKay ST. JAMES ANGLICAN Ph: 677-2469 Rev. Jean Arthurson-Ouskan Sunday services @ 7:00pm. 10 Caribou 677-4652 Light of the North Church 11 am Sundays 32 Nelson Road also 7 pm 1st & 3rd Sundays GATEWAY BIBLE BAPTIST CHURCH ST. JOSEPH UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC 159 Cree Rd. 340 Juniper Drive 778-7547 Pastor Dave Cook ST. LAWRENCE ROMAN CATHOLIC 204-679-9000 Sunday School 10:00 Fr Subhash Joseph and Fr Guna Sekhar AM Service 11:00, PM Service 7:00 114 Cree R. 677-0160 Prayer Meeting- Wednesday 7 PM Sat. 6:30 pm & Sun. 10 am THOMPSON PENTECOSTAL THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF Pastor Dan Murphy LATTER-DAY SAINTS Youth Pastor Lawrence Stratton EVERYONE WELCOME SUNDAYS AT 10 AM 83 COPPER RD Children’s Pastor Miranda Murphy For more information, church tours or 126 Goldeye 677-3435 home visits call the Missionaries at Service at 10:30 am 204-939-4382 or visit Mormon.org ST. ANDREWS PRESBYTERIAN THE SALVATION ARMY, 249 Thompson Drive 204-677-2799 Thompson Corps (Church) Pastor Murat Kuntel 305 Thompson Dr. Regular Hours: 11 am Church Service Worship services every Sunday at 11:00 am CHRISTIAN CENTRE FELLOWSHIP 204-677-3658 328 Thompson Dr. N. 677-4457 APOSTOLIC FAITH CHURCH Sun. School 9:45 am • Service 11 am 111 GOLDEYE CRESCENT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH Service Schedule 456 Westwood Dr. S. Sunday 11:00 am Worship Service Ph. 778-8037 Service @ 11 am 3:00 pm Sunday School LUTHERAN - UNITED CHURCH OF 7:00 pm Evening service THOMPSON congregations worship at Wednesday: 7:00 pm Bible study followed by prayer time. Contact us at 52 Caribou Rd. at 10:30 am Sundays. 204-679-2693 or 204-677-5003 Phone 204-677-4495

level exploration ramp. The plans come after sources say Hudbay reduced its exploration department by 15 people, with 10 employees remaining at the Hudson Bay Exploration and Development office in Flin Flon. The reductions were among the layoffs announced by Hudbay last month. Sources have put the total number of Flin Flon layoffs at 27. In terms of other exploration in 2016, Hudbay is projecting to spend $1 million in Peru, site of its Constancia copper mine, and $5 million at other locations. The total exploration budget for the year is $11 million, but Hudbay puts the final figure at $8 million based on the assumption that $3 million of the Manitoba expenditures will be capitalized. In 2015, Hudbay forecast precapitalization exploration costs at $55 million, including $20 million in Manitoba. Total post-capitalization expenses came in at $20 mil-

lion. As for production, Hudbay plans to boost Manitoba zinc output over 2015 despite a maintenance shutdown of the Flin Flon zinc plant planned for the second quarter. Planned sustained capital expenditures in Northern Manitoba have decreased from 2015, the company said, due mainly to the weaker Canadian dollar and “substantial completion” of a ﬂeet renewal program at 777 mine. Hudbay said 2015 production of copper (10 per cent), zinc (25 per cent) and precious metals (8 per cent) increased in Manitoba, thanks mainly to a full year of commercial output at the Lalor and Reed mines. Assuming the mid-point of its 2016 production projections are reached, Hudbay expects company-wide production increases for copper (12 per cent), zinc (9 per cent) and precious metals (16 per cent).

Friday, January 22, 2015

Careers

Administrative Assistant to the Property Manager We are looking for a person who loves the North and plans to make their home in Thompson. • • • • • • • •

Permanent - at least 35 hrs per week. Monday to Friday, weekends off, occasional on-call required. Must be bondable, have a drivers license and own transportation. Experience with Microsoft Ofﬁce and basic bookkeeping a must. Attention to detail and ability to work independently are also a must. We are looking for someone long term to develop management skills for possible future considerations. Flexible work environment. Wages based on education and experience.

Apply in person to Carolyn Turpie at 31 Oak St., Ofﬁce

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 11

Federal government must support Manitoba’s Northern transport initiatives Manitoba is making historic investments in roads, airports and ferry service in Northern Manitoba. It is time for the federal government to do the same. That is my clear message as MP for Churchill-Keewatinook Aski as Parliament resumes sitting. The provincial government is extending the all weather road network through the East Side Road Authority, improving ferry access and all-weather road access for York Landing and War Lake, building

MP Report Ashton.N@parl.gc.ca Niki Ashton a new airport for St. Theresa Point and Wasagamack and major investments in northern highways. The Trudeau government has talked about investing in infrastructure.

They campaigned on supporting the East Side Road Authority. The provincial government has made it clear with federal costsharing it can accelerate the construction of this

infrastructure. They need to commit to that now. Improved transportation is critical to our region. It means improved safety, a lower cost of living, greater access to services and much more. At a time when climate change is putting our winter roads at risk it is also about adapting to the reality of climate change. It is time for the federal government to make a real commitment to improving transportation in our region.

or email resume to: manager@friulirentals.com or fax to: 204-677-3195 Deadline date for applicants, February 2, 2016. Only those who are called for an interview will be contacted.

University College of the North (UCN) is committed to building a workforce that is representative of the populations we serve. Applications are invited from individuals who have a demonstrated interest and ability to work with Aboriginal learners and mature students. Preference will be given to Aboriginal candidates

PITA PIT FOOD HANDLER

LIBRARY EVENTS CLERK

Please visit our website for more detailed information about UCN and this employment opportunity. At http://www.ucn.ca, select “UCN Careers”, and select from the list of positions to view. Thank you for your interest in UCN.

Thompson (866) 677.6450

Classification: Service Worker 1 Casual Position Thompson, Manitoba Competition No. 16-013 Closing Date: February 1, 2016

Part-Time Term Position: 9 hours per week A.S.A.P. to July 22, 2016 Norway House, Manitoba Competition No. 16-012 Closing Date: January 29, 2016

KEEWATIN TRIBAL COUNCIL STUDENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT Is looking for house parents in the Thompson area for the 2016 School Year House parent(s) must be willing to accept responsibility in supporting the student(s) success in high school and must also encourage the student to participate in activities that may be beneﬁcial for the student both academically and socially. The prospective houseparent(s) should be culturally sensitive and be willing to maintain a cooperative relationship with the student and parents. All houseparent(s) must complete a Criminal Record and Child Abuse Registry check, these forms are available at our ofﬁce. 23 Nickel Road Thompson, MB R8N 0Y4 For applications and more information please contact Janelle Spence-Laliberty PHP Education Counselor, (204) 677-0398 Mon – Fri 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM.

AWASIS AGENCY OF NORTHERN MANITOBA Optical Assistant Awasis Agency of Northern Manitoba and its communities provide a range of services to children and families that promote health and well-being and facilitate the restoring of harmony and balance to the family unit. Awasis Agency is now hiring for the following professional employment opportunities: Foster Care/Intake Stats Location: God’s River Sub-Office, Manto Sipi Cree Nation Child & Family Services Worker Family Enhancement Worker Location: Fox Lake Sub-Office, Fox Lake Cree Nation Child & Family Services Worker Family Enhancement Worker Location: Split Lake Sub-Office, Tataskweyak Cree Nation

Thompson Eye Care is looking for a hardworking, fashionforward individual to join our team. The successful candidate will be friendly, detail oriented and have excellent communication skills, in person and on the phone. We are willing to train, however, office and/or retail experience is an asset. A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Competitive wages and some flexibility in hours to the right candidate. Approx. 30hrs/week. Resumes can be dropped off at Thompson Eye Care in the Westwood Mall or emailed to tammie@thompsoneyecare.ca.

Child & Family Services Worker Location: York Landing Sub-Ofﬁce, York Factory Cree Nation Lakeview Inn & Suites – Thompson,Man Guest Service Representative We have a great environment we want to share with you! Immediate opening for Part-Time/Casual Guest Service Representative Must be willing and able to work varied shifts including evenings and weekends. Knowledgeable in computers and love to work with the public. Be approachable, friendly, and enjoy working in a fast paced environment. Please submit resume to Lakeview Inn & Suites 70 Thompson Drive, North Thompson, Man mhusarski@lakeviewhotels.com

To learn more about these professional employment opportunities, please visit our website for a full listing at www.awasisagency.ca Awasis Agency provides continuous training and a great beneﬁts package to employees.

BACHELOR OF ARTS INSTRUCTOR

Thompson RCMP Drug Tip Line

204-677-6995

Classification: Instructor Full-Time Term Position: ASAP to June 17, 2016 Oxford House, Split Lake and Nelson House, Manitoba Competition No. 16-007 Closing Date: January 29, 2016 or until position is filled.

WORK WITH US & GROW A CAREER Thompson (866) 677.6450

Glacier Media Group is growing. Check our job board regularly for the latest openings: www.glaciermedia.ca/careers

www.thompsoncitizen.net

Wise customers read the fine print: *, ★, †, *, ♦, §, 5 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 retailers on or after January 11, 2016. Offers subject to change and may be extended without notice. All pricing includes freight ($1,745) and excludes licence, insurance, registration, any retailer administration fees, other retailer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. Retailer order/trade may be necessary. Retailer may sell for less. *Consumer Cash Discounts are offered on select 2016 vehicles and are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. ★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 retailer for complete details. †0% purchase financing available on select new 2016 models to qualified customers on approved credit through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Retailer order/trade may be necessary. Example: 2016 Jeep Cherokee Sport with a Purchase Price of $26,595 with a $0 down payment, financed at 0% for 60 months equals 130 bi-weekly payments of $205 with a cost of borrowing of $0 and a total obligation of $26,595. *3.99% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package/2016 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package models through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Examples: 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package/2016 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package with a Purchase Price of $22,495/$20,995 (including applicable Consumer Cash Discounts) financed at 3.99% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 208 bi-weekly payments of $126/$118 with a cost of borrowing of $3,798/$3,545 and a total obligation of $26,293/$24,540. ♦3.49% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2016 Jeep Cherokee Sport through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Example: 2016 Jeep Cherokee Sport with a Purchase Price of $26,595 financed at 3.49% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 208 bi-weekly payments of $147 with a cost of borrowing of $3,903 and a total obligation of $30,498. 33.99% purchase financing for up to 96 months available on the new 2016 Chrysler 200 LX (28A) through RBC, Scotiabank and TD Auto Finance. Example: 2016 Chrysler 200 LX (28A) with a Purchase Price of $23,595 financed at 3.99% over 96 months with $0 down payment equals 416 weekly payments of $66 with a cost of borrowing of $3,975 and a total obligation of $27,570. §Starting from prices for vehicles shown include Consumer Cash Discounts and do not include upgrades (e.g. paint). Upgrades available for additional cost. 5Sub-prime financing available on approved credit. Finance example: 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT with a purchase price of $27,595 financed at 4.99% over 60 months, equals 130 bi-weekly payments of $240 for a total obligation $31,207. Some conditions apply. Down payment is required. See your retailer for complete details. ^Based on IHS Automotive: Polk Canadian Vehicles in Operation data as of July 1, 2015 for Crossover Segments as defined by FCA Canada Inc. TMThe SiriusXM logo is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc. ®Jeep is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC used under licence by FCA Canada Inc.

Page 12 Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

FINANCING +$ ,

26,595

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $2,000 CONSUMER CASH* AND FREIGHT.

20,995 †

FINANCE FOR

147 3.49 @

BI-WEEKLY◆

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES FREIGHT.

118 3.99

BI-WEEKLY≥

Friday, January 22, 2016

COLD HOT

DAYS DEALS SALES EVENT

NO PAYMENTS FOR IT ALL ENDS FEBRUARY 1ST! UP TO

ON MOST MODELS

22,495

23,595

★

DAYS

IN TOTAL DISCOUNTS*

7100

CANADA’S #1-SELLING MINIVAN FOR OVER 31 YEARS

2016 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN CANADA VALUE PACKAGE FINANCE FOR

BI-WEEKLY≥

126 3.99

FINANCE FOR

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $2,500 CONSUMER CASH* AND FREIGHT.

WEEKLY3

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDES $7,100 CONSUMER CASH* AND FREIGHT.

Starting from price for 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT Plus shown: $30,940.§

LEGENDARY JEEP CAPABILITY

2016 JEEP CHEROKEE SPORT

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

Starting from price for 2016 Jeep Cherokee Limited shown: $34,540.§

AFFORDABLE LUXURY

2016 CHRYSLER 200 LX

66 3.99

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

Starting from price for 2016 Chrysler 200 C shown: $30,140.§

CANADA’S FAVOURITE CROSSOVER^

2016 DODGE JOURNEY CANADA VALUE PACKAGE

FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $0 DOWN

Starting from price for 2016 Dodge Journey Crossroad shown: $32,140.§

REBUILDING YOUR CREDIT?

DON’T PAY EXCESSIVE RATES. SPECIAL RATES AS LOW AS ONLY 4.99% OAC ≈

chryslercanada.ca/offers