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February 18, 2010 - Vol.7 - No.5
Inside
Recommendations for the OGC - Story on Page 3
Rigs n’ Roughnecks - See Pages 13 to 17
Artist of the Peace - Story on Page 30
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Council, Senator Neufeld approve of Site C study
By Melanie Robinson FORT ST. JOHN – Council is moving forward with its plans to ensure the city and the region don’t lose out if Site C goes ahead. Mayor and council approved a motion at its Feb. 8 meeting to move forward with the hiring of a consultant to look into both the Fair Share agreement and mitigating the impacts of the project. Senator Richard Neufeld, who presented to council at the meeting about the need to move forward with such a plan, said he’s seen where not doing so has hindered communities in the past. “Two years is not a lot of time for a region this size, because it’s not just the city and I appreciate that, the regional district has to be involved fully in consultation for whatever benefits we can get,” he said. “I’ve always been an advocate for whether you believe in the project or not, let’s get some negotiation done on what the benefits are for this region because …[the Province] likes to hear that and we don’t want to cram it.” Melanie Robinson photo Neufeld said he was representing Senator Richard Neufeld made a presentation to Fort St. John council on Feb. 8 stating the importance of both his federal position and his determining possible benefits for the region if Site C were approved. The Peace Valley Environment Associadesire as a local resident to see the tion (PVEA) had a number of members attend the meeting to show its objection to the building of the project. city benefit and praised council’s decision to move forward with A number of members from the Peace ValAnd what it has to offer, she added, such the consultation process and in co-operation ley Environment Association (PVEA) also as class one and two agricultural soil, food with other communities in the region. attended the presentation to voice its con- security and wildlife habitats would be lost While Coun. Lori Ackerman said it made cerns of the project moving forward. if the Province decided it was in favour of sense to move forward with consultation, she While spokesperson for the group, Sandra Site C. said she voted against council’s motion be- Hoffman, admitted the city is right in think“Losing class one and two soil – once cause she was concerned about the timeline. ing they need to prepare for the possibility of it’s gone it’s gone and you can’t get it back Ackerman herself had suggested getting a the project, PVEA is adamant that the project again, you know? With critical wildlife habiconsultant before the end of March and coun- is unnecessary. tat, once it’s gone it’s gone. In terms of clicil did not see that as possible. She said in addition to getting that message mate change there is going to be a northern “This should have been done more than six across to people in this region, the group has migration of animals – you can’t have firm months ago,” she said. “This is something been working to ensure residents across the barriers where you’re not going to allow difthat really should have been started at least province know just what Site C is. ferent populations to interact with each oth18, if not 24 months ago. Unfortunately for “I think it’s really important not just for er, you’ll lose biodiversity, genetic diversity whatever reason it was not started and my our area but that the impacts of Site C are and you weaken populations.” concern is the timeframe.” recognized down in the South as well beWith the approval from council, the hired That concern, she added, is more pertinent cause presently there’s very much disconnect consultant will study the potential socioecofollowing last week’s Throne speech and dis- between the South and where their energy nomic impacts of Site C. In addition to apcussions around the needs for energy supply is actually coming from,” she said. “I think proving the motion, council voted in favour – although Site C was not mentioned. there needs to be more recognition on their of incorporating other communities that may “You put two and two together and it part that the Peace Valley exists and it has a be impacted by the project to be involved in comes up with Site C,” she said. lot to offer.” the consultation as well.
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Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
Page 3
Auditor general says OGC needs to improve oversight, reporting of risks By Matthew Bains NORTHEAST – “The Oil and Gas Commissions’ oversight of the environmental and financial risks associated with oil and gas site contamination needs improving.” That was the conclusion of British Columbia’s auditor general, John Doyle, in a report released last week on an audit conducted from December, 2008, to March, 2009. The report states that in 2006, the OGC began working with the Ministry of Environment (MoE) to develop site classification guidelines to assess the potential health and environmental risks at each wellsite and facility in the province. While those guidelines are now in place, a backlog of applications from industry for Certificates of Restoration had built up. The Commission issues a Certificate of Restoration for all wellsites and processing facilities no longer in use once restoration of a site is completed to standards developed by the Ministry of Environment. The auditor general recommended the OGC assess what resources will be needed to deal with the approximately 5,000 inactive sites that are eligible for restoration, in order to avoid the environmental risks that could become more serious over time. He said while he believes the guidelines are appropriate, they need to be reviewed to make sure they are being followed. “Having a guideline and then having it deployed effectively can be two different things, so we need to go back and doublecheck to make sure it’s operating as intended,” said Doyle. The report states the OGC relies mainly on desk reviews, submitted by operators, to oversee the certificate process and only limited field monitoring at sites undergoing
Contributed photo
A report from British Columbia’s auditor general states the Oil and Gas Commission needs to improve its oversight of environmental and financial risks related contamination. This photo shows a site before reclamation efforts were made. restoration occurs. Doyle recommends an independent field review be implemented to ensure objectives are being met. The Commission also has the responsibility to ensure operators assume the cost of site reclamation. While this is done for the most part, the OGC established a levy on the industry to support an Orphan Sites Reclamation fund to restore historical sites with no identifiable owner. However, the auditor general believes that with the growing number of sites requiring reclamation, there is increased potential operators may walk away from their responsibilities, increasing the number of orphan sites to where it could overwhelm the fund and put the burden on taxpayers. He recommends the Commission determine how much money is required to reclaim existing orphan sites, as well as determine the overall liability that may exist. “While the Commission is correct in saying they now have a process that looks at these things, we would need to assess how
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effective that process and how timely the review of the financials and the risks associated with walking away from a particular wellsite are,” he said. Doyle also determined the information provided to the public and the Legislature on the Commission’s oversight activities are not sufficient. Specifically, the OGC’s report on compliance rates across all industry activities were deficient because they failed to report the initial rate of compliance before corrections are made, and were unable to confirm how many inspection parameters checked related to site contamination risks. He suggests the OGC should be reporting any and all deficiencies, especially major ones that have the potential to cause harm to human health or the environment. “The way that the OGC reports publically
could be enhanced so it would give citizens the opportunity to objectively appraise just how well or not well they were doing in regards to risk management,” said Doyle. OGC commissioner Alex Ferguson said they accept the reports’ findings and have already implemented many of the recommendations. “They gave us some good stuff to work on,” said Ferguson. “Any audit, in my view, is first and foremost about improving, and I don’t know which business in the world couldn’t improve, so we took it as just that.” He said there’s been a lot of rhetoric and political statements made around the report, which don’t actually reflect what’s in the report. Story continued on Page 12
Page 4
February 18, 2010
Northeast NEWS
Dawson city council passes preliminary budget numbers By Matthew Bains DAWSON CREEK – Dawson Creek city council approved the preliminary draft of the 2010/11 budget on Feb. 8. Mayor Mike Bernier said staff did an excellent job bringing forward a plan that included what council was looking for; namely, tax reductions, operating cuts and only those capital projects that were priorities. He said council has heard the message from residents concerned about taxes, and that was one of the main drivers behind this budget. The proposed residential tax rate is $5.16 (per thousand dollars of assessed value), down from $5.35 last year, and the commercial rate would be $19.15, down from $21.15. However, residential and commercial assessments increased by 10.41 per cent and 18.32 per cent respectively in Dawson Creek. The average single family
dwelling unit in the city, valued at $196,888, will pay $17.35 more than in 2009. Thirty-eight per cent of homeowners will pay less municipal taxes than in 2009, 42 per cent will pay less than a $100 increase, and about 95 per cent will pay less than a $300 increase. Also, 45 per cent of homeowners claiming a higher homeowner grant – seniors and the disabled – will see a decrease and 41 per cent will see less than a $100 increase. “A good indication of what we tried to look at was affordability, and almost 50 per cent of the seniors in Dawson Creek will see the taxes out of their pockets go down,” said Bernier. “That shows that we’re going in the right direction, to help people, anyway.” The average commercial property, valued at $296,898, will pay $372.63 more than in 2009. Twenty per cent of businesses will pay less municipal taxes than in 2009, 12.9 per cent will see no change, 27 per cent will pay less than a $100 increase, and about 90 per cent will pay less than a $300 increase. Bernier said as the city continues to attract new businesses, it will be imResident & Long Term Care Restorative Care portant to keep the comPsychiatric Disorders Human Anatomy & Physiology mercial rate competitive, and new developments Body Systems Dementia: A Caring Approach will only broaden the tax base. Train with an Industry Professional! The City of Dawson Creek will see a total inCall for Dawson Creek Info.! crease of about $622,000 (250) Enroll in municipal and commer! W NO cial tax revenue, but nearCall Our Prince George Campus ly $235,500 of that, or 38 (250) per cent, is related to new construction. Funding may be available The tax rates for major Not all courses available at all campuses and light industrial properties are proposed to drop
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from $42.29 and $27.44 respectively to $19.15, the same as the commercial rate. Chief financial officer Shelly Woolf stated in her report the proposal was in response to hardships experienced in the forestry sector, as Louisiana Pacific is Dawson Creek’s only major industrial property, and to be proactive in anticipation of a possible cap on industrial rates by the Province. These rates would result in a total decrease in tax revenues of $303,664. The city will see a net increase in tax revenue of less than two per cent, but revenue from fees and charges is expected to drop by $811,773, or about 11 per cent, and revenue from government transfers is expected to decline by $830,527, or seven per cent. The former is mainly due to removing commercial waste pickup as a city service, one-time event fees in 2009 (the Northeast BC Energy Conference and the North Central Local Government Association conference, for example,) conservation measures in the water utility fund and conservative estimates for both building inspection and airport fees. The latter is mainly due to provincial cutbacks to transfers such as traffic fine revenue, small communities grant, community works gas tax and planning grants. Overall, the city will see a projected decline of $1.7M in revenues from the 2009 actual budget. However, expenditures will also drop by $1.68 million from 2009, including a total cut on the operations budget by $1.6 million, and a two-year reduction in community grants and fee-for-service support. This is achieved by a 50 per cent reduction in travel and training budgets, short-term deferrals of capital upgrades, and reduction in staff levels through attrition and reduction of part time or temporary staff positions. Bernier said he believes these proposals achieve a good balance between making necessary cuts while still maintaining the services people have come to expect. Story continued on Page 10
Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
Page 5
RCMP see good results with greater enforcement downtown
By Melanie Robinson FORT ST. JOHN – Greater enforcement in the downtown core has allowed the local RCMP detachment to take control of some of the city’s issues. That is according to Insp. Pat Egan, who made a presentation to council on Feb. 8 to update on 2009 statistics and to better prepare for 2010. Egan said through consultation with council and the community, the RCMP were able to better determine what the needs were for the year and focus some of its members on those issues. “We’re basically looking at a number of trends in the detachment area,” he said. “Probably the most striking changes are in the rate of vandalism. We’ve seen a 23 per cent decrease in the last 12 months and there are a number of factors we feel have contributed to this.” Those factors, he added, included the community meetings around anti-social behaviour, a positive initiative in his eyes. Other factors included increased awareness by the public and the police as to the issues around youth and vandalism in the city. Having the police know about the issue resulted in a greater presence in the downtown core – meaning other areas of focus could be looked at as well. One of those, driving behaviours in the downtown core, was presented as an issue and, through the help of North Peace Traffic Services, the RCMP recorded a 38 per cent increase in the apprehension and prosecution of impaired
drivers. Other statistics reported by Egan included a 60 per cent decrease in the number of fatalities caused by motor vehicle collisions, which he attributes to the greater police presence, along with a 40 per cent increase in the number of people being arrested for public intoxication and a 40 per cent increase in the number of people cited for causing a disturbance. Egan said members of the local detachment have a higher than average caseload than others provincially – 106 locally versus the average of 78. This, however, does not mean there is necessarily a need for more officers in the city. “What [these statistics] show is that it speaks to the importance of having community consultation and relying on the community to come up with solutions and to be involved in the decision making and focusing our efforts where they’re most needed,” he said. “That’s really what the story is here, it’s a focused approach on problem solving and consultation with the community.” He added, however, that there is always a need for more officers but it’s a matter of finding a balance between meeting the public’s expectations and having regard for the realities of the community. “It’s a delicate balancing act and we have to be mindful of the statistics to see what the trends are and respond accordingly. Whether that means more police officers or not remains to be seen,” he said. Council and members of the local detachment were sched-
uled to get together to discuss this year’s upcoming goals on Feb. 15, which Egan said he was optimistic about. “We hope that we’ll have a frank and honest discussion with mayor and council and that they’ll bring a lot of public perspective to the meeting and that we’ll end up jointly setting the priorities,” he said. The Northeast News will report on the outcome of that meeting in our future issues.
2010 PJ Campaign
It has come to our attention that there are some members of our community that need our help.
We are making
CHILDREN IN CRISIS our priority On behalf of the Women’s Resource Centre, Women’s/ Children’s Emergency Shelter and Foster Parents of Fort St. John, we are raising money to supply 1,000 “Sweet Dreams Initiative” kits for local children in crisis. Each kit will include: 1 pair of pyjamas, 1 reading/picture book, 1 stuffed teddy bear, 1 toothbrush, toothpaste, 1 night light and an addressed stamped postcard for the child to send a thank you to the supplier.
We would like to thank you for helping us meet this goal and most of all, thank you for helping these children in need. To make a donation or receive more information please contact your local Western Financial Group Office: Melanie Robinson photo
A number of Kettle campaign volunteers were recently recognized by the Salvation Army after they helped to raise approximately $63,077.30, bringing the total for the Christmas campaign to $179,128.58. Here, from left, kettle coordinator Lindsay Jardine and Capt. Isobel Lippers present Sheryl Jakubowski with Kettle Queen, Bernie Johnson as Kettle Prince and Carrie Markwick for Kettle Princess. Also awarded was Kelly Smith (not pictured).
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Page 6
February 18, 2010
Words of Opinion
Time keeps ticking
Northeast NEWS
EDITORIAL
Site C has been a discussion in the Peace Region for decades. That discussion some time ago led to the conclusion that, at the time, the project was not going ahead. Well, the possibility of the project moving ahead is, again, on the table and has been for a few years now. BC Hydro is in the process of wrapping up Stage 2 of the consultation required before any decision is made by the provincial government as to whether to move to Stage 3, the permitting process – a decision that is speculated to be made soon. So why is it that just now local governments are looking to figure out what benefits the region could receive if the project did go ahead? Fort St. John council started discussing the possibility at a meeting a couple weeks ago but the thoughts of Coun. Lori Ackerman need to be echoed – this should have been something thought about 18 to 24 months ago. It’s no secret that there has been ongoing consultations and studies as to the benefits and negatives of moving the project forward and, depending on who you talk to, their opinions could go either way. There’s no doubt if it does get approved impacts will be felt throughout the Northeast. That’s why something needs to be put in place to mitigate those potential impacts in some way. Local governments need to be recognized for the fact that they are working to figure out what possible projects could benefit the communities and the region. Hopefully, however, it’s not a little too late.
MP Report
Canadians ever generous when needed, in good times and bad
There was more reason for optimism on the economic front this past week as our Conservative Government successfully negotiated an agreement with the United States Obama Administration that will ensure Canadian companies can participate in US infrastructure projects financed under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. This is terrific news for Canadian businesses and workers who faced being blocked from supplying materials to state and local public works projects under the “Buy American” initiative. Preserving and creating Canadian jobs is our Government’s top priority both now and in the future. That’s why this agreement also established a fast-track consultation process should similar provisions be applied to future US funding programs. We also negotiated mutual access to state and provincial/territorial procurement opportunities, further recognizing the integrated nature of our two economies and creating additional opportunity to create Canadian jobs.
And speaking of new jobs, Statistics efits, on a voluntary basis, launched on Canada reported last week that employ- Feb. 1. Self-employed individuals who ment in Canada increased by 43,000 jobs opt-in to the EI program on or before April 1, 2010 could collect in January – far better than benefits as early as Jan. 1, market expectations of a 2011. 15,000 job increase. The 2.6 million self-emThese numbers confirm ployed Canadians, includthat Canada’s Economic ing small business ownAction Plan is working and ers, farmers, construction marks the fourth month workers, professionals and of job gains in the past six those who own a home months. Canada is weatherbusiness, previously had ing the current global ecolittle or no income protecnomic challenges better than By Jay Hill tion to cope with major life nearly every other industrievents. And their ability to alized country but our recovery remains fragile. The Prime Minister address these challenges and continue to has repeatedly said that our Government prosper in their businesses is important won’t be satisfied until those Canadians to our nation’s economic success. The economy was also front-and-cenwho have lost jobs are working again. In other employment news, our Con- tre at the meeting of G-7 finance minisservative Government’s initiative to al- ters and central bank governors in Iqalow self-employed Canadians to apply luit last week. Participants agreed that for Employment Insurance (EI) special we need to continue delivering stimulus benefits, including maternity, parental, programs while looking ahead to longsickness and compassionate care ben- term fiscal solutions. This includes a
commitment to work together to ensure that, to the extent that a financial crisis is caused by financial institutions, those entities should bear the costs. Also at the meeting, G-7 countries cancelled Haiti’s bilateral debts in the aftermath of last month’s tragic earthquake. However, the most overwhelming sign of support for Haiti has come from individual Canadians. International Cooperation Minister Bev Oda announced this week that Canadians have donated $113 million so far under our Government’s program to match individual donations. The deadline where donations will be matched is Feb. 13 and I anticipate that Canadians will continue to open their hearts and their wallets to the Haitian people. Even while many families in Canada continue to face challenging financial circumstances through this global economic crisis, I am proud and inspired that the spirit of Canadian compassion and generosity never, ever fails!
9909-100 Avenue, Fort St. John, BC V1J 1Y4 • Phone toll free 1-877-787-7030 • Phone: 250-787-7030 • Fax: 250-787-7090 Email: editor@northeastnews.ca • sales@northeastnews.ca 1220B 103 Avenue, Dawson Creek, V1G 2G9 • Phone: 250-782-7060 • Fax: 250-782-7066 salesdc@northeastnews.ca • news@northeastnews.ca
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Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
FEEDBACK
Page 7
Decision is unique Peace Region not ready for another dam
Editor: Regarding the OGC’s response to EnCana’s non-compliance issues with EnCana Swan wellsite A5-7-77-14 L W6M (near Pouce Coupe). After reading the OGC’s summary regarding the ‘fugitive’ sour gas emissions on Nov. 22, I imagined many people might be wondering why EnCana came out of the fray with very little in the way of punitive consequences (no stiff fines, severe restrictions etc.) With further thought, the realization of how the OGC has restructured its’ operations in a completely different manner from any other ministry or Crown corporation came to mind. Other BC ministries or organizations operate under the auspices of a ‘prescriptive’ measure or consequence. In other words, if someone breaks the law or disobeys a regulation, a specified punishment will follow. For example, a transport truck, operating without the appropriate equipment, or outside the Ministry of Transportation’s regulations, is subject to serious fines, loss of points or other significant punishable consequences under the Ministry of Highways and Transportation. Likewise, if you choose to ‘mud bog’ as an individual (tear up the land with your quad) on Crown Lands, you will be subject to a $100,000 fine with possible jail time under the Ministry of Forest code. A pulp and paper company might accidentally spill wastewater into a watershed and also be subject to a number of heavy fines as well as other restrictions under the Environment ministry’s act. Yet, when an oil and gas company is found guilty of a variety of major infractions, under the legislation and regulatory body of the OGC, a different philosophy prevails known as ‘results based’ collaboration. In other words, the oil and gas companies are not going to be given punitive consequences or punishment as other industries would be receiving. In lieu of fine, or loss of privileges, the energy companies have to come up with a ‘solution’ to their problem. A timeline is drawn up and the company is supposed to demonstrate how it has or will correct its problems to the OGC. No major fine, no major restriction need be imposed. This is how the ‘results based’ collaboration works with the energy companies. Why is it that only the energy industry is exempt from a ‘prescriptive’ consequence for any wrongdoing? Why do all other industries such as trucking, forestry and pulp and paper pay the heavy price of punitive consequences while oil and gas is allowed to ‘collaborate’ with the regulator on how it will deal with its wrong doings? The answer is simple: There is one standard for the energy consortiums and there is clearly another standard for the rest of us. Rick Koechl Fort St. John
Editor: The following was in my notes to ask Senator Richard Neufeld had I had the chance at the City Hall meeting on Monday, Feb. 8. But that was not possible as he left shortly after his presentation. Sir (Mr. Neufeld): Apart from the loss of the best agricultural land north of southern BC, do you realize that much more is at stake than the loss of land, which to myself is top of the list. Do you realize there is a constant risk of the WAC Bennett Dam being terrorized with this being highlighted recently because of the upcoming Winter Olympic Games. If this should ever happen, the flooding consequences would be catastrophic down river for over 1,000 miles. Another dam would only compound a risk in place. The whole matter is so very serious with the Bennett Dam, now 40 years-old, coupled with a much more dangerous world we all live in. With Williston Lake covering over 600 square miles at a height of 2,500 feet above sea level, the flooding of tributaries to 2,050 feet would occur. This sir was high-
lighted by BC Hydro in 1995 when there were problems with the dam sinkhole. Many communities in BC and Alberta would be very endangered. None of this should be dismissed as scare mongering, but possible. Tread carefully before continuing pushing for another dam, take care of the big dam and its security at all costs. We, people and farmers, are all now at risk in the BC Peace River area from the non-stop drilling for natural gas, much of it sour and deadly. In a scenario where Taylor flats would be obliterated from a dam burst, the gas plants there would be deadly and far reaching. There is more than enough happening on the BC energy side here in the Peace River area. Looking back to the meeting, I am disgusted that Neufeld would say that the power from the Site C dam would be more than enough to power the industry in the Horn River Basin, this was used as an example. This whole Northeast of BC and Alberta is nothing but a powerhouse for the broke USA. Nick Parsons Farmington
Editor: Minister Lekstrom’s Feb. 5 response to sour gas leak concerns reassures British Columbians that safety is his government’s first priority. Browse through his proposed draft regulations: http://www.empr.gov.bc.ca:80/OG/OILANDGAS/ OGAA/Pages/default.aspx and decide for yourself what comes first.
There are exemptions to override environmental protections, exemptions for standards of safe pipeline construction, exemptions circumventing good drilling practice, exemptions to well setback distances, plus many, many more exemptions. You will leave the proposed regulations shaking your head. Ken John Farmington
Editor: Much has been written about renewable energy recently and deservedly so. Renewable energy represents an important new economic opportunity for British Columbia and it’s one that has the potential to positively impact the province’s bottom line. There is a huge demand for renewable energy in North America. But unfortunately for some, Mother Nature has not distributed renewable energy resources evenly or fairly across the continent. As everyone knows, the best hydroelectric resources in North America are concentrated in the Pacific Northwest, and the lion’s share of these are sitting inside British Columbia’s borders. Wind is also coming on strong in this province, and
we’re also poised to start generating renewable energy from wave and tidal power in the near future. We have even solar energy resources that could be developed. Revenue from industries like forestry, mining and fishing have long contributed to the provincial treasury and kept our fiscal cupboard stocked. The renewable energy industry has the potential to do the same and possibly even more. Mother Nature has dealt British Columbia an exceptionally good renewable energy hand and we’re holding all the aces. But it’s up to us to play our cards right, make the smart choices and not blow this incredible opportunity. Christian Albanese Coquitlam, BC
Safety is not the government’s priority
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Page 8
Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
Hospital planners delighted with neighbourhood turnout
By Melanie Robinson FORT ST. JOHN -- Residents of the neighbourhoods near the new Fort St. John Hospital were well informed of the projects progress on Feb. 10. Northern Health held a neighbourhood meeting in order for those with an interest to learn about the hospital’s schedule and ask questions of the health authority. The presentation involved representation from Northern Health, project company ISL Health and the City of Fort St. John to answer any questions from the public. Tom Sparrow, project director for the hospital said all three groups were happy with the questions that came forward throughout the evening. “We have these neighbours who might be impacted by noise or health and safety issues that they’re going to ask specific questions related to being a neighbour to the construction site,” he said. “But the community as a whole, the community members, are also very interested in the project as well and we recognize that.” Director of Infrastructure and Capital Works with the city, Victor Shopland touched on some of the changes residents will see in the area of the hospital as the project progresses including a possible expansion of 90 Street to Christian Life School, a turning lane off of 79 Street into the hospital site, expansion of the double lane of the Airport Road and an expansion of trails through the neighbourhood to ensure that program continues. Sparrow said it’s important for this communication to happen because the idea is to be transparent about the project throughout the whole process. “Everything is transparent about this project and we certainly strongly Melanie Robinson photo believe in that,” he said. “We want to share this wonderful experience, Approximately 35 people turned up for the neighbourhood update meeting about the new Fort St. it’s a very exciting opportunity for Northern Health but obviously share John hospital on Feb. 10. The next step is to form both a neighbourhood and community committhat with the Fort St. John community and the surrounding areas.” tee for the hospital. At this point, he said, progress continues on the project and Northern Health is pleased with the work that was able to be completed before the project. winter months due to the warmer weather at the end of 2009. With the project being the largest Northern Health has ever undertaken, it is an Sparrow said some of the technologies on site have also allowed the work to start exciting time, he said. again early in the spring which will continue to move the project along. “The world is actually watching this project unfold in many, many ways and it’s There is also consulation being done, he said, to determine what will happen to certainly something to be excited about,” he said, referencing articles about the the locations of the old hospital and North Peace Care Centre when the move to the project in places like Chicago and the East Coast. new site happens in 2012. Sparrow said the group hopes to form the neighbourhood committee in the next Northern Health, said Sparrow, will continue with consulations with the com- couple weeks following the Feb. 10 meeting and a community meeting will be munity through the formation of a neighbourhood committee and community com- formed in the next month or so. mittee, local organizations and First Nations to ensure everyone is on par with the Both, however, are important, he said. “We’d like some key members that can then relay that information back to the neighbours in our community,” he said about the neighbourhood committee, adding that it is likely meetings similar to that night will take place in the future to ensure the community is informed of updates to the project. Sparrow pointed out that there have been steps taken to ensure the public is well informed of the hospitals progress, including through interpretive signs along the Are you interested in trail beside the hospital. “We want to make sure we let people know what’s going on with the site,” he said, working in the residential adding the signs will be updated regularly to ensure people do not have to enter the grounds of the hospital. construction industry? “This is very large construction side and we have to respect what they’re doing.”
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W.A.C. bennett DAm Crest roAD Closure BC Hydro is working closely with provincial and local agencies to ensure increased protection of vital hydro-electric facilities during the Olympic Games. Security will be enhanced at a number of critical BC Hydro facilities across the province, including the W.A.C. Bennett and Peace Canyon dams. These increased security measures will be in place from February 1st to February 28th, 2010. Increased security measures at the W.A.C. Bennett Dam will include the closure of the W.A.C. Bennett Dam Crest Road to all traffic in both directions from February 1 to February 28 inclusive. For more information or questions, please contact: Dan Bouillon Environment & Social Issues Manager BC Hydro, Peace Region Phone: 250 783 5006 Fax: 250 783 5013 Email: dan.bouillon@bchydro.com.
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Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
Page 9
New maternity room at FSJ hospital will reduce wait times
Melanie Robinson photo
The new maternity room at the Fort St. John Hospital features six necessary pieces of equipment to allow the staff at the facility and new mothers go through the birthing process as smoothly as possible. From left: New mom and son, Dixie and Levi, Miranda Nelson, who’s seven months pregnant, Bruno Bourassa, director of gaming operations at Chances Gaming Centre, which donated over $35,000 and Jeff Beale with EnCana, which has donated $91,000 over the past three years for different projects and $25,000 for the purchase of the labour bed
By Melanie Robinson FORT ST. JOHN – Staff and patients will be a little more comfortable in the maternity ward of the Fort St. John Hospital from now on. That is after the unveiling of a new maternity room on Feb. 12. The room follows a year-long ‘Have a Heart’ maternity room campaign that saw 146 donors donate more than $130,000 because of the need for the room, said executive director of the hospital foundation, Ashley Bentley. “I would like everyone to imagine delivering their first child,” she said. “You finally go into labour, you are so excited that you are about to give birth, you get to the hospital as fast as you can and you arrive at the maternity department to find out that you’re not the only one in labour today – there’s two other mothers here already that are filling the two available maternity rooms. The nurses accomodate you as best they can and slip you into a room that’s close
to the other birthing rooms so the equipment is close that might be needed.” This was a common occurance at the hospital, said Bentley, and the additional of the new room will reduce those types of situations. The money raised helped to purchase a new labour and delivery bed, a radiant resuscitation warmer, fetal monitor, incubator, pain management pump and Neo-Puff – vital pieces of equipment, said Bentley. In 2008, for example, she said, there were 645 births in the city, up from 560 the previous year. And with up to eight births sometimes happening in one day, and six having occured on the day of the announcement, Bentley said staff at the hospital are also looking forward to the additional space. Kathy Peters, director of care with the hospital, echoed the need for such equipment and space at the facility. “It’s very important to us to be able to nurse our patients in a safe and comfortable environment,” said Peters, adding that moving room to room can be difficult. Peters said the new Fort St. John Hospital, scheduled to open in 2012, will feature seven labour and delivery rooms (LDR) which will allow mothers to stay in the room they deliver in until they are discharged. Having the equipment in one room will also prolong its use. “With not having to move this equipment from room to room improves the wear and tear on it,” she said. The pieces of equipment are now in use at the hospital or will be delivered in the coming weeks.
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Are you interested in a career in teaching? Do you want nationally recognized teaching credentials? Take that first step on the road to success and financial security. Dawson Creek and Fort st. John Campuses Certification: B.C. College of Teachers Contact: Fort st. John: Jaclyn Jones at 250-785-6981, ext. 2050 Dawson Creek: Debbie Mingo at 250-782-5251, ext. 7543 or a Recruiter at your local Campus.
geOMatiCs Geomatics Technicians and Technologists are in demand: secure a bright future for yourself and your family by joining us. starts: september A joint presentation of the British Columbia Institute of Technology and Northern Lights College, Fort St. John Campus: NLC presents the first year of a two-year Geomatics Engineering Technology Diploma Program available with Field Surveying or Digital Mapping options. Enter the workforce after the first year or continue on with BCIT to complete the second year. Join this thriving profession. Call a Recruiter at your local campus or go online at nlc.bc.ca. Student Residences are available.
378/10.02.18-j NEN
Today’s economic challenges are temporary, future labour shortages are not. Now’s the time to skill up and invest in training. employers: To protect your future labour supply. Hold on to your apprentices and take this opportunity to get them into technical training. apprentices: To invest in your future. Put down the tools and catch up on your technical training. You’ll be way ahead of the game when the economy turns around.
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ATLIN • CHETWYND • DAWSON CREEK • DEASE LAKE • FORT NELSON • FORT ST. JOHN • HUDSON’S HOPE • TUMBLER RIDGE
Page 10
Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
DAWSON COUNCIL PASSES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
Since city council will not be borrowing money, the nearly $9.7 million in capital expenditures will be funded from government transfers and partnering ($5,118,183 or 52.5 per cent), capital reserves ($1,303,220 or 13.4 per cent), water and sewer utility revenues ($1,464,236 or 15 per cent) and general revenue ($1,859,419 or 19 per cent). Projects considered priorities were those that have third party funding, including the Calvin Kruk Arts Centre and repairs to 102 Avenue, those that promote economic development, including upgrades to the NAR Museum and EnCana Events Centre, and those that address immediate safety and risk management issues (sidewalk replacement and sewer upgrades). Nearly $1.6 million in road upgrades and $900,000 in building upgrades were deferred. The city’s outstanding debt as of Dec. 31, 2009, is $28.2 million, and debt servicing costs for 2010 are $4.07 million, a decrease of $411,112 compared to 2009. Sixty-nine per cent of the debt relates to the general capital fund and the rest relates to utility funds. About 55 per cent of the general capital fund debt payments are related to the Multiplex. If no new borrowing is undertaken for the next five years, outstanding debt would be cut in half. City staff will also be working on a debt management policy in 2010. All these proposal are subject to change as the budget process has just begun.
Ann Mast photo
The Fort St. John ladies masters curling team will be heading to the Master Provincial Championship in High River, Alberta from Feb. 23 to 26. From left: Dorothy Trask - Skip, Alice Lock - third, Shirley Kinnis - second, and Julie Taylor - lead
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Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
Page 11
South Peace school board trustee moving on to new things
By Matthew Bains so important, and that if there were better communication beDAWSON CREEK – School District 59 board trustee and tween people, we would solve a lot of our social issues and literacy and education advocate Christabelle Kux-Kardos will other issues.” be resigning from her position with the She added she and other literacy board on Feb. 14. co-ordinators have done a lot of Kux-Kardos will be moving with her work to promote those concepts in children to Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast the region and the province, so even to join her husband, Emanuel Machado, though her position was cut, she former city planner with the City of Dawfeels there is a momentum now. son Creek, in their new home. She has When her term as a councillor served as a trustee since December, 2008, ended, Kux-Kardos said her pasand has also been working as an instructor sion for literacy and education, and in a workplace essential skills pilot project the fact she had young children in at Northern Lights College. Before that, the school system, led her to run as she was a regional literacy coordinator for a school board trustee. She said in three years, and also served as a councillearning about that system she nolor with the Village of Pouce Coupe from ticed communication was also an is2005 to 2008. sue at the board level, and she tried Kux-Kardos said it was a natural transito make a difference in that regard. tion for her to become an instructor when “We all go to school and we’re she learned her position as a literacy copart of the system, but we really ordinator was eliminated due to provincial never understand how complex the cutbacks last September. She said she’s system is, and I just wanted to try worked with employers in the city and and make it less of a mystery,” she their employees to design training prosaid. grams around skills such as document use, She said with the focus being on Matthew Bains photo reading text, numeracy, problem solving Peace River South school board trustee reconfiguration over the last year, and more. and former regional literacy co-ordi- she may not have accomplished all “It’s been an interesting project,” she nator Christabelle Kux-Kardos will be her goals, but she feels the district is said. “As a regional literacy co-ordinator I leaving Dawson Creek to take up new on the right track in regards to imwas kind of ‘big picture’…I was support- challenges in Sechelt. proving communication. ing programs throughout the region, and Kux-Kardos said she has enjoyed then to go right down to the grassroots, and the opportunities to make decisions to be very specific, it was quite a transition for me.” that will shape the school district in the future. She said each She said her interest in promoting literacy began when she board member was elected to bring a different perspective to was serving as a councillor, when she became aware of how the district and she brought the perspective of a young mother important plain language is in communicating policy. She and an active community member. even had the opportunity as a regional co-ordinator to present She added she’s met the school board for her new home and the concepts on literacy and plain language to the Union of has thought about running when the next election comes up. British Columbia Municipalities. She said she will miss the many friends she has made here, but “From the policy side, I thought communication was just not the cold winter weather and hopes the Sunshine Coast will
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live up to its name. Kux-Kardos’ resignation triggered a by-election for Electoral Area Three (Dawson Creek). Three candidates have put their names forward, and a candidate’s forum is scheduled for Feb. 11 at Central Middle School. Advanced polling will be available on Feb. 17 and 22 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the school board office on 116 Street, and the voting day will take place on Feb. 27 at CMS at the same times.
Dawson Creek: (250)782-4871 Chetwynd: (250) 788-9237 Tumbler Ridge: (250) 242-4871
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Page 12
February 18, 2010
Auditor continued from page 3
“When I hear statements in the media that everything’s contaminated and everything’s a disaster, rhetoric like there’s a billion dollars in liability to the Crown, that’s just not true and that’s not what’s in the report,” he said. He said there’s has been a backlog in reclamation applications, but it is not an issue of resources. He said the implication that the
Commission doesn’t have an inventory of the sites that are out there is not accurate. “We know where every one of those sites are, we know what condition they’re in, we know who the owners are, we track specifics around the owner in terms of their viability and their ability to actually do the work that is required under the regulations,” he said. He said while the majority of assessments are not done in the field, professional engineers evaluate a sample of sites each year to determine whether the work is done to the right standard, and all the tests done are kept on file. He added those certificates do not release the operator from their responsibilities should issues be identified later. NEED BLINDS.. TRY THE “BLIND MAN” The Commissioner said The Blindman SEZ” On Our 3 Brands of Good Custom there is no risk taxpayers would have to pay for site recBlinds(“Recession Prices”) lamation. High R Values with Tx Deductions Available “The potential for any of that Vertican 1” Aluminum, Venetians 60% OFF liability to go to the Province is PSC Fabric Verticals 60% OFF pretty much zero,” he said. As for the reporting proVertican- Roller Shades, Pleated Shades & Honeycomb cess, Ferguson said they have Shades 50%OFF avoided making significant All Hunter Douglas Blinds Shades & Shutters are on sale! changes until the regulations Plus any style of Fabric Window Treatment is available being developed under the Oil and Gas Activities Act are put 40% OFF In Stock Fabrics in place. He said those reguWhy not put our years of design experience to work for you lations would give the Com“Free Consultations” Call Rose or Gary Today! mission stronger enforcement processes through penalties and fines. He added they’ve also engaged the Forest Practices Board to audit all of their Design & Decor 250-785-5754 compliance and enforcement processes.
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Northeast NEWS
Hill receives upgrade money
By Matthew Bains DAWSON CREEK – The Bear Mountain Ski Hill near Dawson Creek is undergoing some major renovations and has received a lot of help from the community to help make those changes a reality. On Feb. 10, Mayor Mike Bernier presented the Dawson Creek Ski and Recreation Association with a cheque for $50,000 towards the upgrades. The money is the full amount awarded to the city for finishing second in the 2010 GamesTown competition in the lead up to the Olympic Games. He said the decision wasn’t without some debate among city councillors when it was made during their meeting on Feb. 8, but he said ultimately they felt it was the right place for the money. The mayor said there are a number of groups that would fit the Province’s stipulation that the money go towards sport and healthy living. However, he said he suggested to council the money should be allocated in one lump sum to a club that linked to the Winter Olympics and was in dire need of the money. He said the ski hill was at a point where the future of that operation was in question. “They have done a great job working this winter to kind of band-aid everything together to keep it operational, but they truly need capital funding,” he said. President Paul Gevetkoff said his club will use the money to help leverage other funds to replace their ski lift. He said the current one is more than 60 years-old, and replacing it will cost about $900,000. “We can go for matching through different levels of government, and it gives us a good kick-start to do some fundraising from businesses,” said Gevetkoff. “It’s a significant amount of money, and that’s what it takes to
kick-start some of these big projects.” He said the chalet is 30 years-old and also needs renovations. Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse and Bar recently took over the catering function, and Gevetkoff said with some changes the chalet could become a attraction for the ski hill and a year-round revenue stream. “I’m really looking forward to it with Mr. Mike’s in there, because they’ve got the knowhow to develop that into a popular place,” he said. He said they would also like to put in a cement floor and heating system into a workshop meant for equipment repairs, at an estimated cost of $20,000, and they have long-term plans for a terrain park for snowboarders, which would cost approximately $50,000. Gevetkoff said last year, due to a combination of poor weather, declining revenues and volunteer fatigue, the previous board had considered shutting down the hill. However, with the threat the doors were going to close, many people came forward to help out, support and volunteer. He said himself and a number of other members of the South Peace Oilmen’s Association were committed to seeing the facility stay open. “I guess it just shows that the community feels that the facility is value,” he said. “It’s one of the best facilities in the area for kids, and it’s more than just skiing, it’s socializing, it’s a place for kids to go and visit their friends.” He said ski conditions this year have been much better, and the interest is picking back up again. He said they’ve had exceptional turnout on the weekends, and they are actually in need of more volunteer instructors to accommodate the number of youth who wish to take lessons.
Around The Corner Spring Is Just
NOTICE A Public Consultation Meeting will be held on Monday March 1, 2010 at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall, Council Chambers 10631 -100th Street, Fort St. John The City of Fort St John’s Committee of the Whole is inviting the public to attend this meeting to review and discuss the City’s 2010 Operating Budget. For further information on the 2010 Budget, visit the City’s website at www.fortstjohn.ca
New Spring Styles Are Arriving Daily Indigo by 9907-100 Ave, Fort St. John 250-785-1152
Northeast NEWS
RIGS
February 18, 2010
& Roughnecks
Page 13
February 2010
This is a must read for everyone who appreciates and depends on the oilpatch
Many not satisfied with EnCana, OGC response to gas leak
By Matthew Bains POUCE COUPE – An apology wasn’t enough for many of the residents who attended a meeting in Pouce Coupe hosted by the Oil and Gas Commission to discuss the findings of the investigation into last November’s gas leak. Mike McAllister, a senior executive with EnCana Corp., was at the meeting on Feb. 10 and delivered that apology to residents for the mistakes his company made leading up to the gas leak on Nov. 22, and the errors in implementing its Emergency Response Plan (ERP). “A lot of things went wrong on Nov. 22,” McAllister told those gathered at the Pouce Coupe Seniors’ Hall. “Clearly, we are extremely disappointed with what happened, and please accept EnCana’s sincere apologies for what transpired that day.” He explained the company has done a risk assessment of 500 wells in the province that have a similar configuration to the one where the leak occurred, and have shut-in 225 of them to conduct further tests of the piping integrity. He added on 190 wells in the area of Dawson Creek, they have moved the position of the emergency shut-down (ESD) valves further upstream on the piping, as the valve on the piping in question failed to shut-in the leak that day. He said they’ve also adjusted on-site monitoring on wells containing hydrogen sulphide gas (H2S) to detect the potentially-lethal gas in lower concentrations and to detect drops in gas pressure sooner. McAllister said the emergency response wasn’t timely enough. “It was an hour and fifty minutes from the time we knew we had an issue to the time we got the well closed,” he said. “An ESD closing would have been within minutes, not an hour and a half.” He said there was a 20-minute delay in contacting an operator because the operator was out of cell phone range, so the company has installed global positioning systems (GPS) on all of their field vehicles. He added the communication with residents in the area wasn’t good enough, and the company will be hosting ERP and H2S workshops in the area and in the rest of the province in the near future. He said the company would also be opening a satellite office in the Tomslake area. However, the explanation, and the 12 directions from the OGC that EnCana is required to follow, was not enough to satisfy the concerns of many of the people in attendance. One resident said the apology was much too late.
GET OUT IN
“It’s really strange to me that it took two and a half months for a public apology to come out,” she said. McAllister responded while they hadn’t apologized publically before, they had met with residents individually to apologize. Dawson Creek resident Barbara Swail said she was concerned about the timing of the response from police and the company after six bombings of EnCana pipelines had taken place in that area. “How can that be explained in the context of those six bombings?” asked Swail. Mike Fargo, a seMatthew Bains photo nior executive with En- Mike Fargo of EnCana (standing, front left), commissioner Alex Ferguson (sitting, front middle) and Cana, said the company chief engineer Ken Paulson of the Oil and Gas Commission attempted to answer the public’s questions could only respond in during a meeting to discuss the findings of an investigation into the Nov. 22 gas leak near Pouce Coupe. the timeframe after they However, many people who attended expressed their dissatisfaction with the answers they were given recognized there was a regarding the incident and the safety of residents in the area. problem. Dawson Creek detachment commander sons, Joshua and Ben, made their distrust of need to be trained on whom to contact locally Sgt. Darren Traichevich, who was one of a the industry known, and asked why the OGC in the case of a gas leak. couple of RCMP officers present at the meet- hadn’t fined EnCana for their responsibilThe OGC’s chief engineer Ken Paulson ing, said they worked with EnCana that day to ity for the incident. One of them even asked said they would be following up with first ensure the incident wasn’t another explosion. Traichevich if the RCMP were considering a responders to make improvements in co-ordiHe added police aren’t trained to respond to charge of criminal negligence. nation. He added they might also be adding gas leaks themselves. Ferguson responded the OGC does not more directives if necessary, including ones A number of residents also wanted to know have the authority under current legislation to that would apply to the industry as a whole. what the OGC intended to do about the resi- fine companies for violations, which bothered Fred Banham and Ron Storie from the dents who reported health problems following many in the crowd, but he said regulations be- Peace River Regional District were at the the leak, as well as reports of livestock deaths ing drafted under the Oil and Gas Activities meeting and presented three recommendaand deformities. Resident Tim Ewart suggest- Act would grant them that power. Traichevich tions for the board’s consideration the next ed there should be physicians at the Dawson said they were not pursuing criminal charges. day at their regular meeting. The board apCreek Hospital to diagnose and treat illnesses Iva Tuttle, a Tomslake resident and direc- proved the recommendations with a couple of caused by H2S exposure. tor on the board of the local fire department, friendly amendments. OGC commissioner Alex Ferguson said said the company should have notified the fire The are calling on the Ministry of Energy, Ewart’s suggestion was a good one that they department when the leak occurred. She said Mines and Petroleum Resources (MEMPR) would take under advisement, but he said the members have been trained in H2S safety and and the OGC to establish a standardized pubOGC itself doesn’t have the medical expertise have experience co-ordinating evacuations, lic education protocol based on the British to assess the affects on livestock or people. but were not informed directly of the leak, or Columbia Emergency Response ManageThat was not a satisfactory answer for a num- the bombings in the area. ment System (BCERMS). They also call on ber of people at the meeting. “You’re not utilizing the people in Toms- the Ministry to take the lead role in researchNoticeable at the meeting was the presence lake that can help you,” said Tuttle. “Please, ing and educating local physicians about the of a few residents from the Trickle Creek start communicating and using the people, in- health hazards of gas exposure. Thirdly, that Ranch near Hythe, Alta., the home of Wiebo stead of just driving down our roads.” the PRRD explore broadening its 911 call Ludwig and the focus of police attention in She added residents have been taught to answer service to include call transfers to the the investigation into the bombings. Ludwig’s call 911 during an emergency, and operators OGC for gas related incidents.
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RIGS & ROUGHNECKS
February 18, 2010
Horn River gas plant receives environmental approval By Matthew Bains FORT NELSON – EnCana Corp. recently obtained environmental approval from the Province for a gas processing plant to be built near Fort Nelson. The Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) issued a certificate on Jan. 28 for the Cabin Gas Plant, to be constructed on a one square kilometre section of Crown land, about 60 ki-
Leaders in Safety and Training for the BC Oil and Gas Industry Enform BC is located in Fort St. John, at the Heart of BC’s Oil and Gas Industry. Enform’s BC Campus gives industry employers in the region direct access to the Enform programs and services that help make operations safer. Upcoming courses: • Safety Management and Regulatory Awareness for Wellsite Supervision (Vid-Con) March 1-3, 2010 $543.38 including gst • Safety Management and Regulatory Awareness for Wellsite Supervision Refresher (Vid-Con) March 4, 2010 $274.05 including gst • Safety Training for Jobsite Supervisors (Vid-Con) March 8 + 9, 2010 $425.25 including gst • Incident Command System (ICS) I-100 Level – Orientation (Vid-Con) March 10, 2010 $99.23 including gst • Introduction to Gas Processing (Vid-Con) March 29 & 30, 2010 $491.40 including gst Contact Enform BC for more information. Email: bc@enform.ca Phone: (250) 785-6009 Toll-free: 1-800-667-5557 www.enformbc.ca THE SAFETY ASSOCIATION FOR THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY
BC-Rigs_Roughnecks_001-Feb 3,10 Rigs and Roughnecks 1/8 page vertical – 3.31 in x 5,00 in Black plus 1 colour White background Material deadline: February 8, 2010 Insertion date: March, 2010
lometres northeast of Fort Nelson. At initial capacity the plant would process 400 million standard cubic feet per day of gas extracted from the Horn River Basin shale gas reserve in the northeast corner of the province. At full capacity, that volume would double. “What it signals is that there’s tremendous potential in the Horn River,” said EnCana spokesperson Alan Boras on what the facility means for development in the area. It’s estimated that potential could be in the trillions of cubic feet, making the Horn River Basin one of the largest gas fields in North America. The distance from core markets and the overabundance of natural gas in North America remain a challenge to future development, but Boras said if prices rise as forecasted, they are confident they can be competitive. “We will have to continue to have to work on all of our economics in order to continue to have that gas come to market at competitive prices,” he said. The project itself still needs licensing and permit approval from the Oil and Gas Commission, and pipelines still need to be built to connect the facility to the existing main transmission lines. Boras said construction of the plant would create between 350 and 400 jobs over the two-year window, and would require 40 to 50 full-time positions for operations. The EAO approval has stipulations regarding utilizing and encouraging local employment wherever possible, but Boras said that was the company’s intention anyway. Pending regulatory approval, he said construction is expected to start later this year. However, the environmental approval process has not been without controversy. The EAO has stated the plant would emit 2.166 megatonnes of carbon dioxide a year, with most of that being vented directly into the atmosphere as a result of processing. That is almost twice the volume of CO2 of the next highest emitter in British Columbia, and would increase emissions in the province by 3.27 per cent. A submission by the Pembina Institute during the public comment period requested the plant be built to include carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies. The EAO stipulates a number of measures for the operator to reduce emissions,
including properly tuning vehicles and equipment and not allowing them to idle when not in use, and using energy-efficient equipment, but no requirement for CCS to be included in construction or to be retrofitted at a later date. Before the company was split into two entities last September, EnCana operated the Weyburn Enhanced Oil Recovery plant in Saskatchewan, the world’s largest CCS facility, using the technology to recover more oil from dormant wells. “Those are the kinds of things we’re looking at, but it’s too early to define in particular terms what path we may be able to pursue in that,” said Boras on the potential for CCS technologies to be applied to the Cabin Gas Plant. Chief Kathie Dickie of the Fort Nelson First Nation (FNFN) said she is disappointed CCS technologies weren’t required for the plant, because she said it is part of responsible and sustainable development. “They are saying the capital costs of that would be too expensive – too expensive from a financial point of view, but what about all the other costs, to our environment, to our people, to our rights?” she asked. Dickie said she does not agree with the EAO’s determination that there are “no significant adverse effects” on First Nation treaty rights within or outside of the project footprint. She compared the EAO’s stipulations to mitigate emissions to someone putting their finger in the crack of a dam to hold back the water. She added she feels the process was rushed, even though the assessment began in July of last year, noting other assessments have taken years to complete. Dickie said the FNFN is not opposed to development in the Horn River Basin and welcome the economic opportunities, but they are being inundated by the volume of applications they’ve seen already. “The scale of development is so hard to comprehend because it’s so huge. It’s just immense what’s coming through the door, and we don’t have the capacity to deal with all that.” She said the solution is to develop a comprehensive regional management plan in order to evaluate and analyze the cumulative impacts of development. She said they remain hopeful that negotiations with the Province in that regard will be fruitful. Story continued on Page 17
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Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
RIGS & ROUGHNECKS
NLC TALISMAN ABORIGINAL ENTRANCE AWARD WINNERS
DAWSON CREEK – Four Northern Lights College students are the recipients of Talisman Aboriginal Entrance awards. The awards, valued at $1,250 each, were handed out recently to Aboriginal students enrolled in full-time programs at NLC campuses in Dawson Creek, Fort Nelson and Fort St. John. To be eligible for the award, students had to write a short essay on how the award would benefit their educational goals. Award recipients were: Allie Auger, Business Management Diploma, Saulteau First Nation/Moberly Lake; Darcy Brown, Land Reclamation Diploma, West Moberly First Nation; Matthew Badine, Oil and Gas Field Operator, Fort Nelson First Nation; and Robert Belcourt, Land Reclamation Diploma, Kelly Lake. -Contributed
Contributed photos
Robert Belcourt receives his award from Aboriginal Education co-ordinator Barb Allie Auger receives her award from Financial Aid Officer Billie-Joe Crandall. Taylor.
NEASP
North East Aboriginal Skills & Employment
Plumber Foundation Program Where?
Darcy Brown receives his award from Matthew Badine receives his award from Aboriginal Education co-ordinator Barb Financial Aid Officer Susan Ranni. Taylor.
Page 15
When? How Long?
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Fort St. John Piping Industry Training Centre February 22nd, 2010 16 Weeks in school technical & practical training with essential trade skills Incorporated All costs are totally funded All First Nations Status, Non-Status, Metis & Inuit Men & Women residing in North Eastern BC Seven Women & Seven Men will be selected for this program based on the educational requirements for this program
Upon sucessful completeion of this program, the student will be an ITA (Industry Training Authority) registered Plumbing Apprentice with their Plumbing Level 1 technical credit & 375 work based hours applied to their apprenticeship.
Contact Margrit Carter or Steve Wilks immediately at 250-785-0887 www.northeastnews.ca
Northeast NEWS
Page 16
RIGS & ROUGHNECKS
February 18, 2010
Contributed photo
The Fort Nelson Hospital Foundation was recently a recipient of donation from Devon Canada for $8,148 for renovations to a single-bed maternity room at the hospital. Devon is the first member of the Horn River Basin Producers Group to donate to the complete cost of renovating a room but the company hopes it will inspire others to contribute in the future. From left: Greg Brady, manager of Aboriginal Relations with Devon Canada, Laurie Dolan, Fort Nelson Hospital Foundation Board President, Shad Watts, Government Affairs/Strategic Issues with Devon, Michel Scott, vice president Government and Public Affairs with Devon and Carla Peace, executive director of the Fort Nelson Hospital Foundation
RIG ACTIVITY LIST -- feb. 9/10
Wells on Location: 1,074 New Wells: 23 Wells Cancelled: 2 Re-Entry Wells: 15 Wells Preparing to Spud: 16 Wells on Private Land: 266 Wells Spudded: 0 Wells Preparing to Resume: 0
www.northeastnews.ca
Wells Drilling: 79 Wells Suspended: 19 Rigs Active: 95 Wells Resumed: 0 Rigs Drilling: 79 Wells Rig Released: 26 Wells Other: 0 Wells Total: 1,216
Information provided from the Oil and Gas Commission website.
Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
RIGS & ROUGHNECKS
Horn River continued from page 14
Dickie added the FNFN is examining its options in regards to the Cabin Gas Plant, but didn’t want to elaborate on those options. Blair Lekstrom, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, and Environment Minister Barry Penner give final approval for any Environmental Certificate. Lekstrom said if CCS becomes viable as an option that plant could be retrofitted, but he said it is not a proven technology. He said Spectra Energy continues to study the technology at its Fort Nelson plant. However, he said the Cabin Gas Plant would still fall under the Province’s cap and trade system that it continues to develop with other western states and provinces and EnCana would have
to purchase credits to offset the plant’s emissions. Lekstrom said it’s not realistic to be able to eliminate the use of fossil fuels overnight, but progress continues to be made on emissions standards, renewable fuels and electric vehicles. He said natural gas and alternative energies produced in British Columbia present opportunities to reduce the reliance on coal-fired power in the United States. The minister said he wouldn’t have signed off on the Environmental Certificate if he wasn’t satisfied with the consultation process. He said the Province is in discussions right now to negotiate a economic benefit’s agreement with the FNFN.
Page 17
Contributed photo
The only Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician program offered in British Columbia is underway at Northern Lights College with a full inaugural intake of 16 learners. The program commenced on Feb. 1, and it was a busy first week for the learners and instructor Duane Mitchell. The inaugural Wind Turbine Maintenance Technician class at NLC, with Dean Howard Mayer (left) and instructor Duane Mitchell (right).
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February 18, 2010
GET DAWSON CREEK GREEN
Page 19
Tricks to a healthy furnace
Minor furnace maintenance can result in major savings on your energy bill. Dirty filters constrict the air flow entering your furnace, causing it to burn less efficiently. The location of the filter varies between various makes, models, and years, so refer to the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for instructions (most furnace manufacturers offer manuals or partial manuals on their websites). Air filters should be checked monthly in the winter, especially if there are pets in the house because the fan draws pet hairs into the filter. Hold your furnace filter up to a light; if the light doesn’t shine through clearly it should be replaced or cleaned. Oil furnaces have an oil intake filter that requires periodic cleaning or changing. Again, you can refer to your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for location and disassembly instructions. Cleaning the oil intake filter allows the oil to flow more consistently and with less resistance which allows your furnace to run at peak efficiency. Gas and propane furnaces should be checked professionally (preferably by the original installer) every couple of years. Oil furnaces should be checked professionally every year because oil is a dirtier fuel. Older furnaces may have two motors (burner motor and fan motor). Often one is in the front and the other
in the back but it could be configured differently in your furnace. There may be oil ports on one or both of the motors and shafts. Oiling these motors will not only save wear and tear on the furnace parts but the motors will not have to draw as much power to overcome additional friction – 10-weight, nondetergent, motor oil (not all purpose) is preferred. Two or three drops in each port every couple of months is all that is necessary. If your home or business is located within Dawson Creek you are eligible to receive a free energy efficiency assessment and a personalized strategy sheet on all the ways you can save energy and money in your home or business. Just contact Get Dawson Creek Green at (250) 782-5005, info@getusgreen. org, or visit the website at www.getusgreen.org Get Dawson Creek Green is funded in whole or in part by the Canada-BC Labour Market Development Agreement.
Matthew Bains photo
Dawson Creek’s RBC branch manager Jeff Fowler (left) presented a cheque for $5,000 to John MacDonald of the Salvation Army on Feb. 10. The donation will help the local chapter fund existing programs such as a youth group, a disability group, and a youth summer camp.
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Page 20
February 18, 2010
Northeast NEWS
AGRICULTURE
Grain Producers look to tackle issues affecting growers
to focus on and in what areas they should spend their time and resources. The answers provided, though, were very diverse, ranging from the carbon tax, high input costs, transportation costs and the lack of competition in that area, government regulations and the lack of restrictions on imports, to name a few. The BCGPA has very little or no control over issues such as weather and crop prices, but Critcher said there are regional concerns they can work on directly, and provincial and national concerns they can help bring awareness to and shape policies to address them. She said, for example, they Matthew Bains photo are participating in ongoIrmi Critcher, president of the BC Grain Producers Association, told producers at their ing consultation around annual general meeting on Feb. 9 that she and the board directors needed their input changes to the Canadian to set their direction and focus for this year. Wheat Board, specifically, on who is eligible to vote By Matthew Bains FORT ST JOHN – “What are the barriers to profit- for directors. She added, after quite some time and effort, they were successful in lobbying the provincial ability on your farm?” That was the question posed by BC Grain Produc- government for a wildlife damage mitigation program. ers Association president Irmi Critcher to farmers at She said locally they can talk to producers in the rethe Association’s annual general meeting on Feb. 9 in gion to see how the BCGPA could best direct its reFort St. John. Critcher said the information would help search to help them. The president and the directors are already workthe board of directors decide what issues they needed
Limited Q
uantities
ing on a number of issues that affect local producers. Critcher said the BCGPA has made a formal submission to the Province to urge the government not to move forward with a ban on pesticides for cosmetic (lawn and garden) purposes. She said the BCGPA and other groups believe the ban will have implications for the agricultural use of pesticides, specifically where rural areas border urban ones. She added pesticides already require approval from Health Canada and encouraged like-minded individual producers to go online to www. croplife.ca to sign a petition opposing the ban. South Peace director Garnet Berge sits on a committee that deals with marketing and transportation issues, and he said he would like to meet with Peace River South MLA Blair Lekstrom and Caribou Road Services Ltd. to discuss the condition of rural roads. Berge said they’re concerned with the quality and speed of maintenance on roads, which he said is creating dangerous conditions on some of the secondary highways. He said they would like to know what work CRS is contracted to do. He said the committee is also looking at how the freight service provided by CN Rail in the South Peace can be maintained and improved. He said the service is not convenient for producers, but they have no alternatives. “We’re getting a little worried that if [CN Rail] doesn’t upgrade the line or keep it maintained from Dawson Creek to Chetwynd, that we might lose that, and if we do, we’ll be trucking our grain to Rycroft or Spirit River, which we don’t want to do,” said Berge, adding that rail is the most efficient and cost-effective way for farmers to ship their products. Critcher cautioned delegates not to expect too much help from the senior levels of government, as program cuts and downloading onto local agencies is expected. Story continued on Page 21
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Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
NE responds to suffering of Haitians after earthquake By Matthew Bains NORTHEAST – Canadians have responded to the plight of Haitians as they try to recover and rebuild from a devastating earthquake that hit their small island nation on Jan. 12, and people in the Northeast are doing what they can to help. Thousands of dollars have been raised in the region by businesses, non-profits, community organizations, schools and individuals. The federal government agreed to match the public’s donations made to any eligible charity, so the money raised here will be doubled. In Dawson Creek, the “Helping Hands for Haiti” benefit concert was held at Unchagah Hall on Jan. 29. Organizer Arlene Delawsky, a member of the local Rotary Club, said when she heard about all the devastation in Haiti she felt she had to do something. She said she knew there are many talented artists in the Peace Region and many generous people, so she approached her fellow Rotarians and got their support to put on a benefit concert. The evening featured performances from the Kiwanis Performing Arts Band, magician Dick Sequins, the Riding Thunder Dancers and many more. Appropriately, given the name of the concert, the Salvation Army King’s Kids performed their black light-mime act using only their hands to create words and pictures, which Delawsky said was a huge hit with the crowd. The evening also featured a PowerPoint presentation from David Lowe, a local physiotherapist who has visited Haiti several times and had adopted a child from there, who gave the audience some information about the country. “It was wonderful,” she said. “It was just a magical night, and we were
blessed with just an outstanding evening with all kinds of entertainment.” Delwasky said students from the Notre Dame School had raised $375 through hotdog sales earlier that day, a group of young Rotarians also raised money by selling ribbons, and over $14,000 was raised in total from the three events. The money is being donated to Shelterbox Canada, and for every $1,000 the organization receives a “shelterbox” is sent to Haiti, which includes a 10-person tent, sleeping bags, and essential tools and supplies. A number of businesses in the region have been accepting cash donations and sponsoring fundraisers for the relief effort. The Dawson Creek Wal-Mart started collecting donations from customers the day after the earthquake, said assistant manager Shelbie Waddell. She said they stopped asking customers at the cash register if they would like to make a donation a couple of weeks ago, but donations continue to come in. She added the store has raised over $11,000 for the Canadian Red Cross, and stores all over the country are doing the same. The Lakeview Inn and Suites in Chetwynd started a donation box in their lobby. Receptionist Megan Kapell said they’ve been encouraging a minimum $5 donation, and donors were entered into a draw to win a jacuzzi suite that will be decorated in a Valentine’s Day theme. The draw was held Feb. 10 but the hotel continues to accept donations, and they have raised over $250. Schools in the Northeast have also been doing what they can to help with relief. Students and staff at Windrem Elementary in Chetwynd recently concluded a loose change drive on Feb. 5 and raised over $350. Story continued on Page 27 ContraCtor SupplieS MaSonry inSulation
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Page 21
GRAIN PRODUCERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20
However, Kerry Clark, crop protection specialist with the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, informed the audience about the Farm Business Advisory Services (FBAS) program, which gives farmers the tools to do self-assessments on their farms, as well as have a professional financial assessment done at a fraction of the regular cost. They can also apply to have up to 85 per cent of the cost covered for a specialized consultation in one of nine different areas, such as succession planning. More information can be found by contacting the Ministry. • The audience heard from Jim Smolik, assistant chief commissioner with the Canadian Grain Commission, who said the Commission will be implementing a three-year phase out period for deregistered wheat varieties, allowing producers and seed distributors time to get rid of their stocks and replenish with new varieties. He said before the change, producers could be out a lot of money if they grew a deregistered crop and weren’t notified before the fall harvest. Smolik said they will now be implementing across the board licensing for comprehensive shrinking, which is the loss in weight of grain from handling. He said the idea is that if there is shrinkage, that would be reflected in the price no matter where grains are delivered. He added they are also moving to make the charges to producers from moisture shrinkage more consistent and clear. • The BCGPA’s research manager, Clair Langlois, delivered his report on research and variety trials conducted last year. He said, generally speaking, there’s been movement towards early-maturing varieties of canola, wheat and barley, which is important for growers in the Peace. He said, in canola for instance, varieties grown here are maturing earlier than Polish canola varieties but without sacrificing too much in yield. Langlois said he’s excited about the results of trials done for dry beans, as well. He said he wasn’t expecting the results to be as favourable as they were, but it would be a really big boost for the BCGPA and for growers if the Peace could have soup or other products containing locally grown beans.
Have an upcoming event you want people to know about? Send us your event listings – upcoming or ongoing – to editor@northeastnews.ca and check it out in upcoming issues of the Northeast News!
Vold, Jones & Vold Auction Co. Ltd.
Dawson Creek auCtion ‘Mile Zero City’ 301-116th ave. Dawson Creek, British Columbia
Dawson Creek Office: 250-782-3766 VJV main Office: 403-783-5561 Cattle Sales, Don Frssler: 250-719-5561 Fax: 250-782-6622
Cattle report slaughter Cattle
526 head of cattle went through the ring of Dawson Creek Action on February 11, 2010
D1 - D2 Cows D3 - D4 Cows Holstein Cows Heiferettes Bologna Bulls Feeder Bulls Good Bred Cows Good Bred Heifers Cow/ Calf Pairs Older Cows Milk Cows
40.00-45.00 35.00-39.00 None 50.00-60.00 47.00-53.50 60.00-70.00 500.00-750.00 None None None None
stoCkers anD feeDers Good Feeder Steers 1000 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 900 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 800 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 700 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 600 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 500 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 400 lbs Plus: Good Feeder Steers 300 lbs Plus:
None None 85.00-94.75 85.00-95.00 90.00-105.00 100.00-115.00 100.00-125.00 None
Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers
Upcoming Sales: now taking bookings for spring farm sales June 5 - Fulton Martin - 200 cow/calf pairs. Consignments Welcome.
None None 75.00-80.00 80.00-90.00 80.00-90.25 90.00-103.50 90.00-100.00 90.00-98.00
Page 22
Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
Seekers unveiling North Peace history
start from the beginning to authenticate and validate all of the facts. This, said the four group members, was seen as a challenge for them – a challenge they could not refuse. “If somebody says ‘where is so and so [buried]?’ well that’s a challenge immediately,” said Barb Godberson. “If there’s a puzzle handed to us, we’re on it,” added Judy Hawthorne. “It was fun, it was really interesting and it was exciting when you found this information, you found somebody. It was very exciting.” During their attempts to work on their project, the Seekers said they came across information that led them to the Old Fort and Frank Beatton’s journals. This led to the continued search for burials at the Contributed photo Old Fort Cemetery and, through the work of the The Cemetery Seekers have faced the challenge of locating Cemetery Seekers, the formation of a committee burials in rural and urban cemeteries throughout the North of Old Fort residents that are concerned about the Peace. From left: Darlene Heal, Barb Godberson, Judy Haw- preservation of the site. The interest from the area residents was definitethorne and Tamara Secrist ly there, said Secrist, because there have been a lot of questions from area residents and tourists about By Melanie Robinson FORT ST. JOHN – After five years, the local group the original location of the fort. The group agreed movthe Cemetery Seekers have completed one of their ing forward with the initiative would fill in the gaps. “[Residents at the Old Fort] know and others know goals. The Seekers recently submitted an index that docu- that there are likely burials all over the hillside down mented cemeteries in the North Peace, totaling more there but as long as we have one little spot that acknowlthan 4,300 names, to the BC Cemetery Finding aid edges that there was a cemetery and that people were buried in that area, [that’s important],” said Godberson. which their four members hope will soon be online. In the meantime, the Cemetery Seekers will continue Meeting that goal, however, wasn’t easy. “We walked all of the cemeteries, recorded the working to obtain information about rural cemetery’s in headstones, made a map and then brought it back and the region and also work will continue on updating the checked it against BC Archives for those who were database as details are uncovered. The copy of the index and all the records collected by questionable, even those that weren’t,” said Tamara Secrist. “We also checked with the caretakers of the cem- the group are available at the North Peace Museum and will soon be available on the museum’s website. eteries if we felt there were any discrepancies.” Those looking for further information can contact The Seekers inherited the project from the former Tree Tracers group and decided it was best for them to Godberson at the museum as well at (250) 787-0430.
BILL’S
Melanie Robinson photo
Fort St. John council recently proclaimed the week of Feb. 14 to 20 as Women’s Institute Week which the group celebrates every year in recognition of the first group being formed during that week in 1897. The local groups celebrated the BC Women’s Institute’s 100 birthday in 2009. The branches in the North Peace have been established since 1933.
Contributed photo
These deer just couldn’t resist the temptation of some bird feed at a home in Camarlo Park in Fort St. John on Jan. 17. In fact, they were so hungry that they emptied the feeder!
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CLASSIFIEDS
Northeast NEWS
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
Are you looking for a new challenge? Are you looking to join a company that was recognized for being one of Canada’s Top Ten Corporate Cultures? Do you want to work for a company that really values their team members? With over 2,100 employees and more than 160 branches from coast-to-coast, AcklandsGrainger is Canada’s leading distributor of industrial, fleet and safety supplies. The career possibilities are endless and the sky is the limit! Career Opportunity:
This role calls for a professional with a diversified knowledge of products, developed through at least 3 to 5 years of progressive experience in an industrial/ safety business and/or relevant post-secondary education. Ideally, you have prior customer service and sales experience. Your knowledge of the selling process is accompanied by the ability to work independently and manage your time and territory effectively. You are a team player with excellent interpersonal and presentation skills, and a commitment to customer service. A valid driver’s license and use of a reliable vehicle are required.
Page 23
LOST
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Account Manager, Sales – Fort St John You will be responsible for visiting and making professional presentations to both current and prospective customers in order to expand business within a safety and industrial account base. While maintaining a high level of relevant product knowledge, you will promote products and services, build and nurture strong customer relations, manage a territory and customer records, produce weekly sales reports and communicate regularly with branch staff in order to resolve customer issues.
February 18, 2010
• Responsible for outside sales and rentals of all products handled by the company. • Must possess excellent interpersonal, communication, and analytical skills.
Application Deadline: February 26, 2010
Portage Mountain Yacht Club requires a Caretaker from May 15/10 – Oct 15/10 at their Dunlevy Rd, Williston Lake location. (Near Hudson’s Hope, BC) The successful Applicant will be expected to perform general caretaker’s duties and will enjoy free accommodation. This is a perfect job for a retiree. Please apply to P.M.Y.C. Box 6431 Fort St. John, BC V1J 4H8 by Mar 15/10 only successful applicants will be contacted.
• Previous sales experience is necessary, mechanical aptitude skills would also be an asset.
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
Interested applicants may forward their resume to Dennis Warren, District Sales Manager at warrend@agi.ca
South Peace Community Resources Society
10110 – 13th Street, P.O. Box 713, Dawson Creek, BC, V1G 4H7, Phone: (250) 782-9174
Posting Circular: Position Title: Classification: Program:
Job-1520 Outreach Worker Adult, Youth and/or Child Worker Outreach Dawson Creek
Qualifications:
Mission...
• Diploma in social work or public administration and two years related experience; or • an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. • All supervised settings to be in services to women and children who are victims of abuse.
Quality Employees serving
Quality Customers with
Quality Solutions. RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE: • Working under the direction of the counter/dispatch coordinator the successful candidate will be responsible for pick up and delivery of equipment, which includes loading and unloading company trucks.
Customer Service Driver Fort Nelson, BC Fx: 250.774.3812 Email: tosbourne@catrents.ca
• Must have a Class 3 driver’s license with a clean driving record. • Must work with customers in a polite, friendly and professional manner.
Skills & Knowledge: • Must have an understanding of family violence, the dynamics of sexual, emotional and physical abuse and family systems. • Demonstrated ability and willingness to work with survivors of wife assault, sexual assault and emotional abuse. • Awareness of the criminal and civil justice systems. • Familiarity with Acts, Legislations and protocols as they pertain to the target group. • Excellent relationship skills with service recipients, staff, professionals and agency personnel. • Demonstrated knowledge of the community, its systems and resources. • Understanding and competence in working with diverse cultures, particularly aboriginal people. • Demonstrated ability to draft a variety of reports. • Demonstrated ability to conduct meetings in an organized and productive manner. • Must have excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently. • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in written form. • Independent ability to use the computer and a knowledge of all relevant software programs. • Must have a valid drivers licence. • Must achieve and maintain: - Crisis Response Training - Suicide Prevention and Intervention Training - Physical and Non-Physical Intervention Training Certificate - Diversity Training • Capable of working in crisis situations. • Good boundaries and self-care practices. • Commitment to social change and role valorization. • Commitment to the woman centred perspective. • Commitment to the principles expressed in the 13 Philosophical Goals. • Respect and adherence to ethics and confidentiality. • Self-motivated. • High degree of diplomacy, tact and conflict resolution. • Non-judgemental and sensitive approach to issues. Vehicle Use:
The Cat Rental Store® is an equal opportunity employer.
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This position requires that you use your personal vehicle for business. You must have a valid driver’s license.
Hours of Work: 21 hours per week. Flexible to meet the needs of the programs. Rate of Pay: As per the Collective Agreement Closing Date: February 26, 2010 Submit Resumes To: Lori Brooks, Human Resource Coordinator P.O. Box 713 (10110 – 13 Street) Dawson Creek BC V1G 4H7 Fax: (250) 782-4167 E-mail: lbrooks@spcrs.ca • Please include Competition Job-1520 with resume • Only short-listed applicants will be contacted • This position requires union membership • This position is open to female and male applicants
Page 24
Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
CLASSIFIEDS
DISTRICT OF TAYLOR Peace Island Park
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
PARK OPERATOR
PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT Manager of Community Services The Peace River country of British Columbia is a vibrant and growing area covering nearly 120,000 square kilometers. Like most of BC, the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) has experienced an increase in regional growth and economic activity which is still reasonably strong through the recent economic downturn. The PRRD is a federation of seven incorporated municipalities and four electoral areas including the City of Fort St. John, City of Dawson Creek, District of Taylor, District of Hudson’s Hope, District of Chetwynd, District of Tumbler Ridge, Village of Pouce Coupe, Electoral Area ‘B’, Electoral Area ‘C’, Electoral Area ‘D’ and Electoral Area ‘E’. The Peace River Regional District is looking for a Manager of Community Services to join the Regional District’s management team to manage the delivery of Regional District community services out of our Dawson Creek office. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, you will assume responsibility for the management of the Community Services Department and the day-to-day delivery of community services throughout the Regional District. The Community Services Department is responsible for the delivery of the following: Rural Emergency Management Program; 911 Emergency Call Answer Service; rural fire protection service areas; development of community service establishment by-laws; overseeing Regional District community services; and, parks and recreation functions delivery. As the ideal candidate you will have a minimum of five years experience showing increasing responsibility covering the spectrum of activities for managing a municipal / regional government, with sound knowledge of the Local Government Act, the Community Charter, the Emergency Management Act, and other legislation affecting local government. Your background could even include experience in the private sector or other levels of government. You must show strong leadership, organizational, interpersonal and communication skills. It would be preferred if your educational background contained a university or college degree / diploma in public administration, economics, commerce or a related field. Certification by the British Columbia Board of Examiners or equivalent from another province / jurisdiction would be an asset. This is an opportunity to be part of an exciting and growing part of British Columbia. The PRRD offers a competitive salary and a full range of benefits for this exempt position. A detailed job description is available. Applicants are invited to submit their resumes, complete with cover letter and references - IN CONFIDENCE - to:
Peace River Regional District Attention: Diana Mitchell, Executive Secretary PO Box 810, 1981 Alaska AvenueDawson Creek, BC V1G 4H8 Email: Diana.Mitchell@prrd.bc.ca Fax: (250) 784-3201 Phone: (250) 784-3200 Closing date for this opportunity will be 2:00 p.m., Monday March 1, 2010 The Peace River Regional District thanks all applicants for their interest in this position, however, only those candidates being considered will be contacted.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Cobra Maintenance L.P. is presently seeking a Full Time candidate for a Dispatch/Shop Manager based out of our Fort St. John office. Cobra is an equal opportunity employer and offers competitive wages and a generous benefit package. The position includes dispatching crews, manage maintenance trucks, and procurement. Automotive Tech. and Safety an asset. Please email or fax resume to the attention of Mike Simpson at: Cobra Maintenance L.P. Phone: 250-785-5755 Ext. 5 Fax: 250-785-6682 Email: msimpson@cobragroup.net
CALL
250-7877030 TO PLACE YOUR AD IN THE BEST READ REGIONAL
The District of Taylor is seeking proposals from interested individuals to operate, maintain, develop and conduct security patrols throughout Peace Island Park and other lands in South Taylor on a year round basis. The park is a multi-use facility that includes 96 serviced and non-serviced camping sites, group camping sites, children’s play areas, historic trading post, boat launch, hiking/cross country ski trails, etc. The successful individual will be required to enter into an independent services contract with the District. The maximum term of the contract shall not exceed a period of five years. Offered as part of the compensation package is the use of the caretaker’s residence and office, (a fully renovated single family residence) at 5865 Big Bam Road. Individual proposals are also being sought for separate responsibilities apart from the main independent contract. These proposals include: • Janitorial of Outhouses/Site Cleaning/Garbage Removal • Grass Cutting/Landscaping/Tree Removal/Weed Control/Trail Development • Fire Wood Supply A typical service contract can be obtained from the District Office 10007-100A Street, Taylor, B.C. The typical contract provides the minimum service required from the successful individual. Proposals must be submitted to the attention of Mr. Troy Gould, Director of Parks & Facilities, no later than 12:00 pm local time, March 1, 2010 at the Municipal Office and may be submitted as a cost per the “typical service contract” available, or as a cost with proposed alterations. Please note preferred candidates will be required to undertake an assessment/interview process and a criminal record check. The successful applicant must have highly developed interpersonal skills in order to deal with the public. The District of Taylor retains the rights to reject any or all proposals that are submitted and that the lowest cost proposal may not necessarily be accepted.
FIRE WOOD SUPPLIER The District of Taylor is seeking proposals from interested individuals to supply and deliver fire wood based on campground demand. The park is a multi-use facility that includes 96 serviced and non-serviced camping sites, group camping sites, children’s play areas, historic trading post, boat launch, hiking/cross country ski trails, etc. The successful individual will be required to enter into an independent services contract with the District. The maximum term of the contract shall not exceed a period of five years. Proposals for supplying wood will be based on delivery to each campsite at a reasonable cost for each load delivered. Approximately 220 cords of split wood are required per season. Wood processing and storage are to be conducted away from the public’s view. A typical service contract can be obtained from the District Office 10007-100A Street, Taylor, B.C. The typical contract provides the minimum service required from the successful individual. Proposals must be submitted to the attention of Mr. Troy Gould, Director of Parks & Facilities, no later than 12:00 pm local time, March 1, 2010 at the Municipal Office and may be submitted as a cost per the “typical service contract” or with a cost and proposed alterations. Please note preferred candidates will be required to undertake an assessment/interview process and a criminal record check. The District of Taylor retains the rights to reject any and all proposals that are submitted and that the lowest cost proposal may not necessarily be accepted.
mAInTEnAnCE The District of Taylor is seeking proposals from interested individuals to maintain approximately 11 hectares within Peace Island Park. The contractor will be responsible to mow and whip all green spaces, landscape sites, remove trees and tree limbs, provide weed control and maintain trails in the Park. The park is a multi-use facility that includes 96 serviced and non-serviced camping sites, group camping sites, children’s play areas, historic trading post, boat launch, hiking/cross country ski trails, etc. The successful individual will be required to enter into an independent services contract with the District. The maximum term of the contract shall not exceed a period of five years. A typical service contract can be obtained from the District Office 10007-100A Street, Taylor, B.C. The typical contract provides the minimum service required from the successful individual(s). Proposals must be submitted to the attention of Mr. Troy Gould, Director of Parks & Facilities, no later than 12:00 pm local time, March 1, 2010 at the Municipal Office and may be submitted as a cost per the “typical service contract” available, or as a cost with proposed alterations. Please note preferred candidates will be required to undertake an assessment/interview process and a criminal record check. The District of Taylor retains the rights to reject any or all proposals that are submitted and that the lowest cost proposal may not necessarily be accepted.
GARbAGE REmOvAL & JAnITORIAL The District of Taylor is seeking proposals from interested individuals to provide janitorial services for 18 outhouses, camp site cleaning, and garbage removal at Peace Island Park. The park is a multi-use facility that includes 96 serviced and non-serviced camping sites, group camping sites, children’s play areas, historic trading post, boat launch, hiking/cross country ski trails, etc. The successful individual will be required to enter into an independent services contract with the District. The maximum term of the contract shall not exceed a period of five years. Proposals should include all costs associated in supplying toilet tissue, garbage bags, and cleaning supplies for sanitation purposes as well as landfill fees for garbage disposal. A typical service contract can be obtained from the District Office 10007-100A Street, Taylor, B.C. The typical contract provides the minimum service required from the successful individual. Proposals must be submitted to the attention of Mr. Troy Gould, Director of Parks & Facilities, no later than 12:00 pm local time, March 1, 2010 at the Municipal Office and may be submitted as a cost per the “typical service contract” available, or as a cost with proposed alterations. Please note preferred candidates will be required to undertake an assessment/interview process and a criminal record check. The District of Taylor retains the rights to reject any or all proposals that are submitted and that the lowest cost proposal may not necessarily be accepted.
Please address your proposal to: Troy Gould, Parks and Facilities Director District of Taylor P.O. box 300 Taylor, B.C. V0C 2K0 • Fax (250) 789-3543 tgould@districtoftaylor.com
Northeast NEWS
CLASSIFIEDS
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
RENTALS
Real Estate – 500 Sq Feet Office space on 2nd floor in professional building 1200 – 103 Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC Call: 250.219.1434
SPACIOUS
Chevy • Pontiac • Buick • GMC
Busy fast paced dealership looking for committed salesperson. Applicant must be energetic and work well in a team environment. Previous sales experience preferred. Please drop resume off in person to Kyle or Neale at 11204 Alaska Rd, Ft. St. John. No Phone calls please.
23269
NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC REVIEW OF SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN # 2 The Participants in the Fort St. John Pilot Project, which include the major forest industry companies and the Ministry of Forests BC Timber Sales, who operate in the Fort St. John Timber Supply Area, have developed a Sustainable Forest Management Plan #2 (SFMP). The SFMP will provide strategic direction to future forestry operations. This SFMP has been developed with input from a Public Advisory Group representing interests from a wide variety of sectors. The SFMP includes landscape level strategies that will be implemented by the Participants to address resource issues that may be impacted by their activities. The SFMP is available for public review and comment from February 8th, 2010 until April 8th, 2010. Copies of the SFMP are available for reviewing between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, until April 8th, 2010 at the following locations: B.C. Ministry of Forests: 9000 -17th Street, Dawson Creek, B.C. Canfor: 9312 - 259 Road, Fort St. John, B.C.
14024
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Management Group Now taking applications for 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units. Call our office for more information or one of our Professional Site managers! Alpine- Dave 250-793-8350 Bona Vista - Maria 250-785-9825 Sandalwood- Bob 250-262-2011 Hillcrest- Glen 250-261-4216 Driftwood- Bob 250-262-2011 Melsher- Dave 250-793-8350 Maplewood- Bob 250-2622011 Graham- Dave 250-793-8350 Killarney- Bob 250-262-2011 AmbassadorErin 250-787-8897 Green GlenBob 250-262-2011 Office Phone 250-785-2662 Email: reception@licar.ca
Written submissions received prior to 4 pm April 8th, 2010 are welcome, and should be sent to:
Pets Puppies for sale. Purebred Boarder Collies. Call 250.843.7103 (02/18)
Business for Sale For sale in the real estate industry. Turn Key business, well established. Please contact 250.264.7598 for information.
For Sale 2002 eight passenger Van. Remote start, All wheel drive, Anti lock breaks. Back seats are removable for hauling cargo. Call 250.787.0865 2001 Bob Cat with pallet forks and straight bucket asking $17,000.00 or best offer. 1990 GM Topkick Tandam gravel / sander truck $12,000.00 or best offer. Call: 250.263.4688 Case W18 Loader, 65 hours on rebuilt engine, 2700 hours on machine, 2 cu/ yd bucket size, front loader cylinders repacked. Starts in any weather asking $16,500.00 call 250-7851490
Seniors of Fort St. John
Large 1 bdrm apt for rent. Heat and hot water, very quiet & clean. Call 250.785.8665
Don't brave the winter weather Enjoy having your hair done in the comfort of your own home Roberta offers 25 years of Mobile Home Hair Care
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AFFORDABLE RENTAL HOUSING BC Native Housing Corporation Applicants are needed in the following areas:
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We build, refinish and chink log homes. We also build solid wood rustic furniture. To view furniture call Lisa in FSJ 250.263.7765 or Doug in Hudon’s Hope 250.783.9156 lynxcreekwoodsmiths.com
Attention
For Rent
Families with low to moderate income preferred. To apply call the Prince George office
Log Homes
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Fort St. John, Dawson Creek Chetwynd, Moberly Lake
Well established mobile local business for sale. Very lucrative, room for expansion, includes 2 trailers and all equipment. Serious inquiries only. Call: 250.785.7774 (03/04)
classifieds work!
Darrell Regimbald RPF (250) 787-3651 Planning Coordinator-North-East Forest Management Group Canadian Forest Products Ltd. RR# 1, Site 13, Compartment 2, Fort St. John B.C. V1J 4M6 Email: darrell.regimbald@canfor.com
2 bedroom house for rent close to downtown Fort St. John $1,100.00 monthly Call 250.788.5594
RAPID DEBT RELIEF
Down sizing. Like new, Sundowner rollbar equipped MTC’S, Medical supplies and equipment, AED’S and Motorolla 800 bag phones. Call: 780.814.0425 (03/11)
Revisions may be made to the SFM Plan as a result of comments received during the review period.
Large one bedroom apartment Central location, Cable included, newer carpet and paint $700.00 a month. Call 250.785.4305
Page 25
For Sale
A copy of the SFMP is also available at http://fsjpilotproject.com/
For Rent
February 18, 2010
Reach over potential customers
60,000
Call 250-787-7030 to place your ad.
Page 26
Northeast NEWS
CLASSIFIEDS
February 18, 2010
Babies of the North IT’S A GIRL ELAINA ChARItY JOY Born: Jan 15 Parents: John Ross
IT’S A Boy zAChARY JOsEPh Born: Jan 21 Parents: Joseph &
& Melisa Burzak of FSJ
Heather Jones of FSJ
Stats: 20” 7 lbs. 8 oz
Stats: 21 3/4” 8 lbc. 1 oz.
IT’S A GIRL VIOLEt ANN mARIE BORDELEAu Born: Jan 19 Parents: Crystal
IT’S A GIRL EmILY mADELINE Born: Jan 23 Parents: Tyler &
IT’S A Boy JACksON thOmAs ANthONY BOWsER Born: Jan 23 Parents: Jaime
Hodkins & Cori Bordeleau of Taylor
Christine Schwartz of Hudson Hope
Stats: 8 lbs. 5 oz
Stats: 21 1/4” 9 lbs 1 oz
Robertson - Sampert & Andrew Bowser of FSJ Stats: 51 cm
IT’S A Boy CODY ALEXANDER WILLARD Born: Jan 25 Parents: Mark & Jennifer Willard of FSJ Stats: 53 cm 7 lbs. 14 oz
IT’S A Boy DuNCAN RIChARD mCDONELL Born: Dec. 23, 2009 Parents: Kaley Gunn & Devon McDonell of FSJ Stats: 21” 7 lbs. 2 oz.
IT’S A Boy COLE ALLEN WICk Born: Jan 22 Parents: Serenna
IT’S A GIRL JADAh NAOmI Born: Jan. 19 Parents: Samantha &
IT’S A Boy kALEB tAREN Born: Jan 22 Parents: Karla &
Stephens & Randy Wick of Chetwynd
Alfred Milliner of Fort Nelson
Greg Gialet of FSJ
Stats: 20” 7 lbs. 12 oz
Stats: 52.5 cm 6 lbs. 15 oz
Stats: 7 lbs. 3 oz
IT’S A Boy mAsON CuRtIsJAmEs fENtON Born: Jan 25 Parents: Kim & Joel
IT’S A Boy NIChOLAs sAmuEL hALVERsON Born: Jan 27 Parents: Jody &
IT’S A GIRL mILLAN ELIzABEth thELmA COX Born: Jan 24 Parents: John &
Fenton of FSJ
Marie Halverson of FSJ
Jennifer Cox of FSJ
7 lbs. 7 oz
IT’S A GIRL kRIstA GRACE tsChEttER Born: Jan 24 Parents: Mark & Theresa Tschetter of Peace View Colony Farmington Stats: 20 1/4” 7 lbs. 1 oz
Stats: 25” 9 lbs. 10.7 oz
Stats: 21.5” 8 lbs. 2.5 oz
Stats: 20.5” 8 lbs. 6 oz
IT’S A Boy kEAGAN sEAN hOtstON Born: Jan 26 Parents: Ryan &
IT’S A GIRL sARAh JOANNE mCfARLANE Born: Jan 29 Parents: Andrew &
IT’S A GIRL tARA ROsE RhODE Born: Jan 29 Parents: Emily
IT’S A Boy DAmIAN mIkE stRAuB Born: Jan 23 Parents: John & Lilly
IT’S A Boy WYAtt mAuRINus Born: Feb. 1 Parents: Melissa &
IT’S A GIRL AVERY RAINE Born: Jan 30 Parents: Sarah &
Brenda Hotston of FSJ
Chris McFarlane of FSJ
Wintersgill & Bretton Rhode of FSJ
Straub of FSJ
Tyler DeGroot of FSJ
Clint Collins of FSJ
Stats: 19.5” 7 lbs. 12 oz
Stats: 22” 7 lbs. 15 oz.
Stats: 22” 9 lbs. 0.5 oz
Stats: 56 cm 4.1 kg
Stats: 42 cm 5 lbs. 12 oz
Stats: 56 cm 8 lbs. 6 oz
IT’S A Boy JAmEs NOLAN sChuLtz Born: Feb 1 Parents: Shanna Lay & Grant Schultz of FSJ Stats: 51 cm 8 lbs. 5 oz
IT’S A GIRL kAtIE BROOkLYN Born: Feb 2 Parents: Kevin &
IT’S A Boy GIBsON mORGAN WARNER Born: Feb 3 Parents: Morgan &
IT’S A Boy OLuWAsEN tAOfEEk Born: Feb 3 Parents: Seun &
IT’S A GIRL COLLEEN BARBARA Born: Feb 2 Parents: Ernie &
IT’S A Boy CONNOR stANLEY Born: Feb 4 Parents: Curtis &
IT’S A Boy DYLAN JOhN Born: Feb 4 Parents: Peter &
Lynn Clarke of FSJ
Michelle Brothers of Fort Nelson
Brittany Tijoni of FSJ
Margaret Dyck of Altona
Danielle Dendy of FSJ
Nellie Loewen of Altona
Stats: 50 cm 6 lbs. 8 oz
Stats: 7 lbs. 4 oz.
Stats: 53 cm 7 lbs. 1 oz
Stats: 20.5” 8 lbs. 3 oz
Stats: 7 lbs. 12 oz
Stats: 53 cm 7 lbs. 11 oz
IT’S A GIRL RAYNE BAhm Born: Feb 2 Parents: Courtney Jones & R.J. Bahm of FSJ Stats: 55 cm 6 lbs. 13 oz
IT’S A Boy LONDON ANDREW Born: Feb 5 Parents: Chris &
IT’S A Boy WILLIAm BADGLEY Born: Dec 31 Parents: Jason &
IT’S A GIRL CLAuDIA BRIGIttE Born: Feb 3 Parents: Jeff &
IT’S A Boy GABRIEL huNtER LOuIs DAVIDsON Born: Feb 6 Parents: Bill
IT’S A GIRL kILEY JEAN Born: Feb 5 Parents: Brian & Lori
IT’S A GIRL PEYtON IVEY Born: Feb 7 Parents: Trevor &
Jodie Schneider of Taylor
Anne Keizer of FSJ
Silvia Liedtke of FSJ
Davidson & Colette Bradette of FSJ
Smith of FSJ
Leanne Lock of FSJ
Stats: 22.5” 8 lbs. 2 oz
Stats: 21 1/4” 8 lbs. 2 oz.
Stats: 50 cm 7 lbs. 9 oz
Stats: 51 cm 6 lb 7 oz
Stats: 20” 6 lbs. 14 oz
Stats: 20” 7 lbs. 14 oz
IT’S A GIRL BERLIN CARmEN BARREttE Born: Feb 6 Parents: Angela
IT’S A Boy BRODY mIChAEL WRIGht Born: Feb 8 Parents: Angie Olson
IT’S A Boy EmERsON shAWN RIChARD PARkE Born: Dec 17 Parents: Jade
IT’S A Boy JAkE Born: Feb 8 Parents: Jeff
Auger & Andrew Barrette of FSJ
& Trevor Wright of FSJ
Mckenzie & Shawn Parke of Grande Prarie
& Jessie Campbell of Monteny
Stats: 21” 8 lbs. 1 oz
Stats: 21” 7 lbs 11 oz
Stats: 21” 7 lbs. 9 oz
Stats: 8 lbs. 8 oz
Congratulations to all the new parents!
IT’S A Boy DANIEL mIkE Born: Feb 8 Parents: Dave & Lynn Novack of FSJ Stats: 21” 9 lbs. 15 oz
IT’S A GIRL ALYssA EmmA Born: Feb 8 Parents: Wade &
IT’S A Boy ADALAI ChARLEs DENIs ALBINEt Born: Feb 8 Parents: Twyla
Andrea Marshall of FSJ
Backman & Kyle Albinet of FSJ
Stats: 20” 7 lbs. 12 oz
Stats: 22” 9 lbs. 7 oz.
Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
NORTHEAST RESPONDS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21
“We have a teacher at the high school [in Chetwynd] who collects loose change around Christmas time for things like mosquito nets, and I thought that was a great and simple thing for my class to do,� explained Grade 3/4 teacher Rachelle Ruiter on how she came up with the idea. “It also gives them some experience on the value of change, being able to count it and see that it does add up.� The coin drive spread from her class to the rest of the school, and to Don Titus Elementary in Chetwynd. The money will be donated to World Vision for their relief efforts. Grade 1 teacher Barb Leuze said teachers and staff at Tumbler Ridge Elementary raised $3,350, and then challenged students and parents to match their efforts. She said they tried valiantly, and were able to raise another $800. In total, including the government’s contribution, that’s over $8,000 raised, which will also be donated to World Vision. Fort Nelson Secondary School hosted a garage sale fundraiser in the gymnasium on Feb. 7 that raised over $2,750. The event was organized by high school teachers Nicole Lachance, Krista Collins and Lindsey Kingsfield and dance instructor Danielle Morine. Lachance explained she is the Grade 12 graduation sponsor and has been helping to fundraise for their event, but when they heard of the devastation in Haiti they wanted to do something to help. She said she’s not exactly sure how the idea of a garage sale came up, but the high school had organized them before to raise money for school trips, and she thinks that inspired the idea. “As teachers, we just wanted to open students’ eyes
Page 27
to the fact that there’s an entire world outside our own, and we need to start thinking globally as opposed to just locally,� said Lachance. “It started with us just wanting to raise awareness for students about the tradgedy that happened in Haiti, but we decided to take it a step further and actually do something about it.� She said they asked people in the community to donate used items that were still in good condition, and there wasn’t an individual price on Contributed photo each one, but rathThis garage sale on Feb. 7 at the Fort Nelson Secondary School is just one example of many er items could be purchased through efforts to raise money for the Haiti earthquake relief effort by citizens of the Northeast. donation. She addA number of businesses and organizations continue ed they ended up exceeding their goal of $2,500, and to collect money for the relief effort, but residents are money was still coming in from a coin drive. The mon- cautioned to be sure their donations are going to a recey will be donated to the Canadian Red Cross. ognized charity.
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Page 28
February 18, 2010
Northeast NEWS
Northeast NEWS
Community UPCOMING Calendar May 21, 2009
Page 25
February There is no cost toedattend event, itbroke is free. Par• Are you tired the crime? do the baskets, time. urday 8 p.m.photography Hospital Cafeteria; Sunday 8 p.m. May 13 to23 June 17 hanging cut flowers, and several children’s whenthe burglars into their African home inof 2008. ComeThen • Are Compassion fatigue from 10 a.m. ticipants are expected to use Join the St. John Citizens Patrol. DonateLook a for Friendship Centre you living with workshop a chronic health condition? The Univercategories. the flower show book in several locations. and hear the supplies testimonyprovided on how God’s loveFort carried the Burgens to 4of p.m. at the South Peace United withare pleased and build to the competition, of Vernon, five hours perhave month. For informa• Cocaine Anonymous - Tuesday 8 p.m. Cathsity Victoria and Northern HealthChurch Authority to their of- bridges ONGOING throughprior the ordeal. This Canadian minimum couple from BC presenter Donalda Laing. is the cor- which is a St. bridgechosen bustingforgiveness, event with cash prizes tion,tocall (250) 262-4530. Fort St. Johnolic Church Basement; Friday 8 p.m. Hospital fer ‘Living a Healthy LifeCompassion with Chronic Conditions’ in Fort and are returning continue the missionary nerstone work in the careeducation giving field. Com-for persons for the strong certificates ingenu-Drilling• The Canadian Fort St.Fort JohnSt. John Cafeteria. • The Women’s Resource Society is seeking motiJohn. Thisoffree six-session program living bridges workand they started inforKenya. wells, growingCancer food, Society and passion is what encourages, and drivesat #300, ity in9900 design. from Jason unit Wednesday eachpeople month,to join •their Alanon - Tuesday 8 helping p.m. Northern Lights volunteer team. If people sparks with chronic health conditionssupports will be available 100 Supplies helpingaretoavailable support six orphanages. Themeets event the is atfirst Quality Inn at ofvated caregiversThe to workshop make a difference lives of evenings Vissers atfrom the Spectra Energy Office during work September to June, at noon at theyour Business Re-dropCollege interest by the (back office door). at #201, 10142-100 Ave. (above Avenue. meets forinsixthe Wednesday 7 p.m. and communities. This bring its hours orTerry by contacting Jason source Centre behind the museum. • Theor Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life GirlVolunteers Guides Thrift Store) call 250-787-1121. 6their p.m.clients to 8:30 p.m. To register or forcan more information, call May 28 at (250) 233-6242. own challenges when begin to experi-or e-mail February always welcome. in Fort Nelson will be held To reg• A Youth Relapse Prevention Group mayonbeJune held5th. weekly, in Cayer - Cordinator tollcaregivers free at 1-866-902-3767 tcayer@27 • Abbeyfield Houses of Fort St. John is holding their AGM at ence cynicism and symptoms burnout • Adult Dance7 at Farmington featuring • A Youth RelapseDirecPrevention Group may be at ister go to www.cancer.ca/relay or call Carmella the afternoons Mental Health and Addiction Services, #300 dccnet.com. Space is limited soofcall today.– a loss p.m. at NorthernHall Lights College. Everyone welcome. ofMay compassion. In this workshop you will have Hwy 40 at 9 p.m.tors Forand tickets call Clarise at (250) held weekly, the prior afternoons (250) 500-2499 9900 –Health 100 Ave.at For more information call Chris or Shaun at 23 volunteers needed. Memberships will beinsold to at Mental an•opportunity understand thePalaeontology signs and symp843-7954. Services, #300 - 9900 – 100 Ave. Pouce Coupe 250-262-5269. First annualtoPeace Region Symposium featur- the meeting ($10). Please come outand andAddiction support our home for toms compassion fatigueRoad and discuss how to doorFebruary Forinformation more information call Chris 250- Patrol • Alcoholics Anonymous - Friday 8 p.m. Old • TheatCitizens is seeking people who can volunteer at ing theoffourth annual Fossil Show, speakers, prizes and27 senior’s independent living! For more call Clara at or Shaun practicechildren’s healthy, ongoing careat while suc- Ridge • Farmington country dance featuring Hwy 262-5269. LibraryPerfect (closed). least five hours a month. for250-786-0155 those new to town, those conguided activities.self Held the Tumbler Public (250) 785-6450. cessfullyand continuing care For for others. The cost contact 40 at Farmington Hall from • Alcoholics Anonymous - If you think yousafety,Chetwynd cerned about who want to make the community a safer Library Curling toRink. more information (250) May 29 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. inis $100 and includes lunch. Register by email at cluding a midnight •lunch. Tickets are $15 each might problem with come to an live •and Alcoholics Anonymous Tuesday and to work, play. Call coordinatormeets Connie 250-262242-3466. Access Awareness Day in Fort St. have John.aStay tuned to drinking, the place spuc@neonet.bc.ca including your contact infor- in advance only. Northeast Call Clarise at (250) 843-7954 AA meeting. Call for times and places FridayRick at 8250-787-8100. p.m. at the Public Library, 5012 46 4530or orsomeRCMP liaison May 23 News for more information. mation. Contact information will be Hall used to send Highway or visit the40! Farmington Store. one to talk to (250) 785-8866. Street. 250-788-9658 • Alcoholics Anonymous - If you think you might have a prob• Country dance at Farmington featuring May 30 Sorry, no minors. to registrants pre-workshop selfminors. assessment to $15 each, February • TheisCanadian Society Relay Fordrinking. Life • NAfor meets p.m. at thetoAirport lem with Call timesWednesday and placesat or8someone talk to Dance from 9ap.m. to 1 a.m., no Tickets avail-27 • The Fort Nelson Woman of Industry holding aCancer golf tournabe completed and brought the workshop. Send call • The Dementia series February 2010Lots workin prizes, Fort Stputter John to will held 29th. To waiting room. 250-785-8866. able at Farmington Store.toFor more information, Clarisse ment at the golf course. of door bebe won andon May fees payable to South Peace United Church at shop will be heldanatextra 10221 18 if Street in Dawson gobecomes to www.cancer.ca/relay orFort call Nelson Gwen Tumbler Ridge (250) 843-7954. prize a member brings a register friend that a member. 1300 104 Cornerstone Church) willat kprouse@sd81.bc.ca at 1.800.811.5666 • Alcoholics Anonymous meeting Church Wed. 8 • Alcoholics Anonymous - Monday 8 p.m.- Catholic May 24Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 2J6. Creek (the formerPlease RSVP to Karen and Prouse 24 House -- Grizzly Valley Players present discussathe progression • New Totem has changed locations. Our new 115 Commercial (Baptist Church). Basement (closedp.m. meeting); WednesdayPark 8 p.m. Catholic Church •February The Forgotten matiMayof30Alzheimer’s Disease, at Parkland in Farmapproaches,• creative solutions and planthe oldand Co-op mall underneath Bingo - 6 pm doors open, 7 pm Basement; the Thursday• 8Mondays: p.m. Catholic Church Basement; Saturday nee• Reading at 3 p.m.Night in Room 5 of theSchool Community Centrecreative in Tumbler The Welcome Wagon events,location the BabyisShower Grandington at 5:30 p.m. ning. There will parent be discussions thebeprogresWorlds Gym. We are open and Cafeteria; games begin. Community Centre Rms. 4&5. 8 p.m. Hospital Sunday 8 p.m. Friendship Centre Ridge. Showcaseonwill taking place at the Stonebridge Hotel at 1on Tuesdays February 24 sion of the disease to Showcase meet the chalfrom 7 to 9 p.m. and Sundays from • Tuesdays: TR Seniors (55+) Drop-In Floor • Cocaine Anonymous - Tuesday 8 p.m. Catholic Church–BaseMay 29 to 31 p.m.and Thehow Bridal will takeThursdays place at 6:30 p.m. Tumbler Ridge Dr. Charles Helmat will lenges Valley of Alzheimer’s disease well. Everone curling, carpet bowling, card & board games, Friday 8 p.m. Hospital Cafeteria. • Couple’s “Loveauthor and Romance” Retreat The King’s May 30 by modifying the 1 to 4 p.m. Bows are free to try as ment; launch hisCamp. new book ‘The Forgotten Explorer: approach of the caregiver. People with dementia welcome. Contact coffee & cookies. Centre Room • Alanon - Tuesday 8 p.m. NorthernCommunity Lights College (back door).5 Christian Accommodation available. For further informa• The 34 annual Trutch Gymkhana is being held atnewtotemarchey@live.com the Mile Samuel Prescott Fay’s 1914827-3549. Expedition to the typically experience in communication http://www.newtotemarchery.com or under Pouce Coupe from 1-4 pm. Small drop-in fee. tion or registration call (250) 206changes Trutch Rodeo Grounds, lots ofor camping space available and a Northern at the Dawson Creek Public and behaviour. Learn effective support facebook at New TotemPlease Archery Club Fort St. Anonymous • Wednesdays: Seniors (55+) Drop-In • Alcoholics - FridayTR 8 p.m. Old Library (closed).– May 17Rockies’ to June 28 concession willways be ontosite. Great family fun, all ages ride!! Library at 7 p.m. The presentation discussion person, reduce friction and cope John. 250-786-0155 Cribbage, Whist & good company. Beginners • Triathlon Training clinics are and coming to Fort St.the John. Come callstress Beth and at (250) 262-5712 for more information. willand be learn followed bytriathlon a book and signing and refreshto day issues. cargivers a tool • Calling all Seniors: Come join us •from 9 a.m. Class welcome! 7 pm Coupe in the Library. drop-in fee. Computer at the Pouce SeniorsSmall Hall every Monout about get prepared for thewith localday upcomJuneOffering 4 ments. Call (250) kitswimming that helps them •cope without day daydinner issues.in conjunction to 2 p.m. onwith Mondays Thursdays at theWednesday SeTaylor day and from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and Low Iming triathlons. Held782-4661 on May 3,for4, more and 6informaare clinics on Ladies of to town the Oiland Men’s tion. improvement, bike tuning and equipment and Taking action on Golf critical plans for thepresented future early niors’ Hall St.Cocktails John, 10908 Street.class every • Civil Air Search Rescue (CASARA) pact100 exercise Thursday fromand 10:30-11:30 a.m. Open stroke triathlon. Tournament by OilWives ClubinofFort FSJ. February 25 local triathletes and ask questions in the events, disease can costly and and have socializing friendsFor more meetings every second Tuesday at the Taylor to everyone! information call Carol at 250-786-5673 Come hear from about at avoid 6 p.m.more and dinner at 7 chalp.m. at Come the Pomeroy Innsfun and Suites. among • Itchypreparation Feet at the Tumbler Ridgeelse Library 7 Sign lenging later. Workshop is include: from 9:30 while taking partdessert, in newwine, activities for a cost of Fire Hall at 7 p.m. For information call Bob at Chetwynd training, and anything you atlike. up atoptions the Tickets are $50 and entertainment, dinner, p.m. featuring Sarah McLeod talking Becky about Taia.m. to 2:30orp.m. jewellry with lunch provided. by prizes. $2, which includes lunch. 250-789-9152 or Monday 250-787-5802. • Alcoholics Anonymous meets and Friday at 8 p.m. at North Peace Leisure Pool or contact at (250)787-5780 draw, gamesCost and is door Tickets available at Flowwan. donation. For information or to register, (250) Call•Marlene There will be Scottish Dancing ev- Centre. • The Alaska Highway RRA (Recreation AirFriendship 250-788-9658 bkeim@fortstjohn.ca for more information. ers by Tamee, Frontiercall Jewellers. (250) 785-8737Country or the February 26 782-1439 or e-mail: mstanley@alzheimerbc.org. Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Central Elemencraft Association) third Thursday • NA meets Wednesday at 8 p.m.meets at the every Airport waiting room.at Upcoming local Triathlons include: Debbie at (250) 787-5100 for moreery information. • The Peace Region Songwriters Association February 27 June 6 tary. Come and learn simple steps, •have a fun & Thursdays: the Taylor Fire Hallball at 7:30 p.m.pm Foratinformation Tuesdays Minor 5 pm-7 Chetwynd Dawson Creek May 24 presents • The Derrick Dance Club Manor of Fort St. John will and9 meet new more inforcall Richard at 250-782-2421 or Heath at 250Ballpark & Rec. Centre Diamonds. Fort St.Our JohnPeace June 7River Home! at KPAC (95 • Rotary Annual Garageworkout Sale from a.m. to 12people. noon. For Avenue) in Dawson Creek. Come and enjoy an be hosting a dance from 9Avenue. p.m. to 1Household a.m. in theitems, mation, Oliver at (250) 785-9508.Tumbler Ridge 785-4758. Fort Nelson June 28 1121-90 tools,call toys, furniture, coffee evening song, at 10908 Street with • Gradfest first Monday of ev- Anonymous Dawson Creek • Alcoholics - meeting Wed. 8 p.m. 115 ComMay 12ofto Julytall 28tales and laughter with guest Senior Citizens Hall and donuts and100 much more. Donations welcome2010 aftermeets May the 4 (no artists HughPrevention Spinney and Monica Hilton. from Doors6:30music by Country Rhythm.please). Members $10, to ery month at 7 p.m. in the North Secondary Craft group for Mental Health and Addicmercial Park (Baptist• Church). • Relapse Group - Tuesdays - 8:30 p.m. at appliances Allare proceed toward resident programs and Peace open atHealth 7 p.m. & show starts atServices. 7:30 p.m.Contact Dennisnon-members $12. Everyone 19 andnoover School cafeteria. is a safe, event Bingo tions- 6Clients. Meets -3:30 at Com1017Mondays: pm doors open,Thurs 7 pm 1:30 games begin. Mental Addiction at (250)262- areactivities. Rain or shine, early birds, there will beThis no sales be- fun •filled February 26 is welcome. For fore more9 a.m. information call Lucy at for all Grads following the ceremonies andCentre grand Rms. 1034&5. Ave., Dawson Creek. 250-782-4410. munity 5269. • How23to get the most from your income tax (250) 785-2867 or Judy (250) 787-0460. march. We are in need of volunteers• and dona- TR Seniors • Alcoholics - meets Mon.,carpet Tues., Tuesdays: (55+)Anonymous Drop-In – Floor curling, May Juneat14 return a workshop Jan St. Patterson tions. Any one wanting volunteerbowling, contact Carl: & games, Sat., 8 p.m. at & Peace River Community Health Unit. card & Fri., board coffee cookies. • The– Derrick Dancegiven Club by of Fort John will beFebruary hosting a28 • Rick Hansen Wheels in Motion walk, wheel, run andto wheel(Sander, Rose Trobak). Are in you ALL Hall • Oxygen andchallenge. Day Spa isRegistration joining hands carldes@telus.net, any in donations Wed. p.m. Hospital Room. All Centrecontact Room 5 from 1-48pm. Small drop-inEducation fee. dance from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. theclaiming Senior Citizens at 10908Salon chair at 12:30, event starts at 1 p.m. Cen- please yourStreet. eligible deductions? andMembers find out $10, at non withmembers the local Child Development for ourcontact Shelley: dona- meetings are(55+) open.Drop-In – Cribbage, Whist & Wednesdays: TR Seniors 100 Music by NightCome Sounds. tennial Park. For Centre information, eventCardex1@telus.net leader Lori Slater and at any •prize the Enterprise Centre, 10805 14 StreetFor (behind first call annual ‘Cuts(250) for Kids’ from or 12slaterl@shaw.ca p.m. until 4 tions contact Jenn: tjbell@telus.netgood company. Beginners • Mile 0welcome! Al-Anon7meets pmSmall every pm in7:30-8:30 the Library. $12. Everyone 19 and over is welcome. information Lucy 787-1912 SP(250) Secondary School) at at 10(250) a.m. 787-0460. For more in- p.m. We invite everyone • Fort St. John Multiple Sclerosis Tuesday evening at Parkhill Community School drop-insupport fee. at 785-2867 or Judy July 12from the community formation to take part!Horticultural Simply comeSociety group. If you anyoneGarden you know has MS and 9700-5th Street, Dawson Creek. Taylor May 23call Seniors’ Access at (250) 782-5745 and surrounding areas • North Peace plans theirorannual (Monday to Thursday to 3 p.m.) or is Margaret the salonTour. at 9009 100your Avenue andand get tour a have any questions just need pleaseAir callSearch•and Relapse Prevention. Mental Health and secAdRescue (CASARA) meetings every • The Magic of Sam1Pearce Show scheduled down at thetoStoneBring family a variety of Fort St.orJohn gar-to talk,• Civil (250) 782-3221. Seniors’ cut! All hairdens. cuts this day will be by dona- Susie at (250) 785-2381 or Sandiond at (250) 787-at the dictions Creek, 782Tuesday Taylor1017-103rd Fire Hall at Ave., 7 p.m.Dawson For information call bridge Hotel withSponsored the show tobybenefit theAccess. Fort St. Johnhair Firefighters. February tion only! No donation is too 4410.orFridays 10 –11 am. Everyone welcome! August 1 big or too small! 2652. Bob at 250-789-9152 250-787-5802. May 25 to27 May 29 Theyou Peace Branch of Engineers All proceeds given to theLeffler Fort St. John Ride Fort Please call confirm • The Marilyn Memorial andNelson Show ‘n Shine in sup• New Totem Archery is to now at themeeting. Taylor Community Hall • Do thinkRiver you’ve been treated unfairlyand by a B.C. govern- will be Geoscientists Association of BC holding a Childmay Development Come out and sup• Alcoholics 8 p.m. If your non-profit has events or meetportCentre. of the Canadian Cancer Society BC and Yukon Anonymous Region. Regis-- Monday Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-9 group p.m. Contact newtotemment ministry or public agency? TheisB.C. Ombudsman be popsicle stickThe bridge building contest andbegeolport your community! ChurchPub Basement meeting); ings you wish published, send them by fax to tration begins July 1 for this all day Catholic event at Casey’s in Fort St.(closed archery.com. able to help. Ombudsman’s staff will in the following ogy fun timeonevent at RL Angus Elementary ONGOING Wednesday 8 p.m. Catholic Church•Basement; (250) 787-7090 or email them to: editor@northJohn. Show ‘n Shine awards for seven motorcycle categories and The Alaska Highway RRA (Recreation Aircraft Association) communities the dates listed below, and are available by apSchool in to Fort Nelson from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 1-800-567Fort St. Johnlots of door prizes. Event includesThursday Catholicon Church Sat-thirdeastnews.ca. a ride to 8thep.m. viewpoint the Basement; meets every Thursday at the Taylor Fire Hall at 7:30 p.m. pointment discuss your problem or complaint. 3247 to book an appointment or see www.ombudsman.bc.ca for Hudson’s Hope Road. Everyone welcome to this fundraising event For information call Richard at 250-782-2421 or Heath at 250to fight cancer. 785-4758. more info. August 21 to 23 Dawson Creek Fort Nelson May 25 • The North Peace Horticultural Society presents their 16th an• The Dawson Creek Chamber of Commerce luncheons are Fort St. John May 26 nual Flower Show and Exhibition at the North Peace Cultural Cen- held the first Thursday of each month at noon at the Best Western. Dawson Creek May 27 tre. The event will be open to the public on Aug. 22 from 3 p.m. to Different guest speaker each month. Members and Non-members Mackenzie May 28 7 p.m. and on Aug. 23 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Awards presenta- welcome. Contact: Lesley Pewarchuck 250-782 4868. Chetwynd May 29 tions will take place at 4 p.m. Refreshments will be available by If your non-profit group has events or meeting you wish pubMay 27 • John and Eloise Bergen, missionaries working with ‘Hope for donations on both Saturday and Sunday while the show is open. lished, send them by fax to (250) 787-7090 or via email to: edithe Nations’ in Kenya were brutally attacked and severly wound- Categories include arrangements, art, houseplants, patio plants, tor@northeastnews.ca.
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Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
Page 29
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Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
Upcoming Events Peace Region Arts Events February 18 to March 5
Chetwynd: March 1 Free Workshops at Chetwynd Public Library, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
of the Peace
Local photographer explores ideas through art
Today will be history tomorrow, and our country, culture and community are changing constantly. Local artist Kit Fast creates his art pieces as a form of exploring the connection between community and environment, using photographs, sculpture and pottery to work through his own thoughts and also to get people thinking. Originally from Dawson Creek, Fast became interested in photography while living in Calgary. Weekends were frequently spent in the Rocky Mountains and as an avid Fort St. John: outdoorsman, Fast found that through photography he February 26 to 28 North Peace could extend his outdoor experience. In hiking, often the Potters’ Guild Workshops with objective is the destination, and when he arrived home, Jim Etzkorn Fast could continue the expedition, further exploring elements of the landscape, wildlife or identifying birds through the photographs taken during the journey. Interested in this Sculpture also engages Fast. He studied pottery both locally and while living in Alberta, and his vases and sculpfeature artist? ture have an earthy, rough-hewn texture and organic form. Kit Fast’s art can be viewed He began creating assemblage sculpture using found obonline at jects, pieces of rusting metal or junk found while explorwww.peacephotographics.com/ ing the area, and sees these forgotten pieces as a kind of kit Fast can be contacted by email at archaeology of the community. Since moving back to Dawson Creek six years ago, Fast shift@peacephotographics.com has established himself as a local artist who is interested in art as a way of participating in community. In his day Are you an artist? job at Peace Photographics, he is frequently involved in contributing to community through publications and marIf you are anyone you know in keting for businesses. He is an active member and current the Peace Region would like to be vice president of the South Peace Art Society. He has exfeatured on this page, please contact Melanie at the Northeast News, hibited his art and organized exhibitions and through these opportunities strives to share ideas and get people talking (250) 787-7030 or about local issues, not in pushing his own opinions but in editor@northeastnews.ca. seeking to raise questions that make us think about our community and our role in shaping its future. In 2008 Fast exhibited his photography, pottery and sculpture in a solo exhibition at the Dawson Creek Art Gallery, shaping his exhibition around the Kiskatinaw watershed. Living so near the great Peace River, there is a sense of the Kiskatinaw River being overlooked, or taken for granted, and yet it is an integral part of our landscape and ecology, and we derive much use from it. Fast spent a lot of time at the river in preparation for the show, photographing it and incorporating it into his work. He created two assemblage sculptures using found objects, rusted truck parts and clay. After shaping them into one male and one female torso, he installed them on a bank above the river and photographed them over time; the seasons changing, the sculptures showing the effects of several months of weather, water and wind. Through his photography he further explored the river and found himself learning a lot more than he had expected about that specific part of our landscape. male torso sculpture. The summer of 2009 saw Fast spearheading a downtown art event titled “artshift.” He and 10 other loCreative framing cal artists created diverse pieces of at its finest art inspired by the theme of change, Framing & gallery inc. and the artwork was exhibited at various businesses in downtown Dawson Creek. Two events held during the show featured art and performances by local students, one held at Under the Willow and the other at Picture It Framing and Gallery. Fast is in the early stages of planning a second TEL: (250) 782-4101 • Custom Framing “artshift” exhibit this summer. He is FAX: (250) 782-2256 • Fine Art Supplies 920-102nd Avenue • Needle Art Mounting passionate about using art as a way Dawson Creek, BC V1G 2B7 • Conservation Framing of exploring a theme or idea and, in • LIMITED EDITION PRINTS sharing those ideas, making a contriDawson Creek: February 26 Songwriters’ Coffeehouse at KPAC 7:30 p.m. February 27 Songwriters’ Coffeehouse at Under the Willow, 6 p.m.
Picture It!
Proudly supporting the artists of the Peace
bution to dialogue and education. Recently Fast has been studying printmaking with Dawson Creek’s newly born printmaking group, and is enjoying the process and tactile sense of this new technique. While photography for Fast is very much about being in the experience, sculpture, pottery and printmaking bring that experience into the studio and reconcile the visual world with the internal thoughts and ideas that shape us as people. It is a challenge for all artists to recognize that art can send a message to shape community and to create with that responsibility in mind. Photographer Kit Fast.
Above: vases. Below: kiskatinaw river photograph.
By Angela Fehr
Don Pettit photo
Kit Fast photos
Northeast NEWS
February 18, 2010
Page 31
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