PG11
Energy: Blue Fuel’s Chetwynd plant moves closer to reality.
July 30, 2015 | Vol. 12 - Nº 31
INSIDE
2015 World Jet Boat
Championship
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DC shooting case Won’t be resolved for months Photo Credit Bronwyn Scott Jet boat racers get ready to go at Peace Island Park in Taylor on Weds., July 22. The 2015 World Jet Boat Championship comes to Canada every four years. The marathon started off on Weds. July 15 in Grande Prairie, moved on to Peace River, then Taylor, and wrapped up in Whitecourt on Sat., July 25. See the story on Page 9.
City and BCGEU workers resume talks BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca
PG3
Fire investigation Cause of blaze still unknown Check us out on Facebook & Twitter
FORT ST. JOHN – New developments could be ahead for striking city workers, with negotiations having resumed on Tues., July 28. Angie Panoulias, local B.C. Government and Service Employees’ Union spokesperson, wasn’t able to say too much about what may lie ahead, or what a solution might look like, because not all BCGEU members had been notified of the most recent improvements. “There are some things in the works right
now,” she told the Northeast News. “In all fairness I really can’t comment too much . . . it’s unfortunate because we haven’t notified some other people as well, too, so I really can’t say anything right now, but we’re hopeful we’ll have more information in a day or two.” The BCGEU has been picketing city hall since Mon., July 20, vying for higher wages and retroactivity going back to Jan. 1, 2015, as the terms of renewal for their collective agreement ended on Dec. 31, 2014. The announcement of resumed negotiations comes after a press release issued by the City of Fort St. John on Fri., July 24, which stated that BCGEU had refused to
resume negotiations with the city. “The BCGEU decision not to resume negotiations indicates that this job action is not about wages,” it states. However, both Panoulias and city management had previously told the Northeast News they believed wages was the primary motivation behind the strike. The press release goes on to say that the BCGEU strategy appears to be to remove key personnel from city services in order to cause maximum disruption to the community while ensuring that a majority of union members still receive their pay cheque.
Continued on Page 7.
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Page 2
Northeast NEWS
July 30, 2015
Dawson Creek RCMP shooting: Conclusive evidence will take months to be released
Photo Credit Stacy Thomas Kellie Kilpatrick of the Independent Investigations Office of BC, in Dawson Creek July 17. DAWSON CREEK - The most conclusive evidence in regards to the shooting of James Daniel McIntyre on July 16, may not be released for months, says Independent Investigations Office of BC (IIO) spokesperson Kellie Kilpatrick. “Any time there’s a fatal firearm, a case or a fatal shooting, those take us longer because we wait for the final autopsy and post-mortem results, as well as the firearms and ballistic analysis,” Kilpatrick said. McIntyre was killed outside Fixx Urban Grill on July 16, when he was shot by a Dawson Creek RCMP officer who was responding to a disturbance at a BC Hy-
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dro Site C event occurring inside. He was taken to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. IIO have been conducting witness interviews since Friday, and while this case is a relatively small one with few people involved, analysis of the ballistics and forensic reports will provide the essential evidence that will connect the dots as to what actually took place during the shooting. “We learn what shell casing, and what bullet came from what weapon, we learn about trajectory, we learn about distance from the person with the firearm and the person who was shot,” Kilpatrick said. “So there’s a significant amount of forensic evidence that we get both from the autopsy and the forensic lab, and then specifically the firearm or ballistic labs.” There are current cases under investigation by the IIO which have been awaiting ballistic and forensic lab results for as long as ten months. “In this case, we’ve got a reasonably small scene, we’ve got a small number of officers, we have one affected person, so you would think that we would be able to complete the investigation quicker and that we could complete many of the things that we have control over quite efficiently, like reviewing video, taking statements from witnesses, reviewing radio transmissions,” Kilpatrick said. “But when it comes to having to depend on forensic labs, ballistic analysis which is outside of our
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control, we have to wait like every other law enforcement agency.” “It’s very, very frustrating for families,” she said. “I mean, the families want to know now what happened to their loved ones, and someone like me has to say, I’m really sorry, it’s going to take longer.” Kilpatrick said that pure volume of cases which the IIO deals with is a factor which might slow the progress of the investigation, saying there are at least 35 other investigations underway throughout the province as well as 11 preliminary investigations. “There’s been a lot of media attention around these
Continued on Page 4.
July 30, 2015
Northeast NEWS
Page 3
Heavy fire damage after blaze at arena complex BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca FORT ST. JOHN – Parts of the gymnastics facility at the North Peace pool and arena complex will have to be rebuilt, having been destroyed beyond repair in a blaze that ignited late Saturday afternoon, July 18. Fire crews received a call reporting smoke at roughly 4:30 p.m. When they arrived, they encountered heavy smoke conditions in the lobby of the North Peace facility and the gymnasium corridor, according to Capt. Dan Golob, training officer for the Fort St. John Fire Department. The initial crews went in and experienced heavy temperature and heat,” he said. “They were able to make suppression activities onto the fire and work into the area, which was compromised by the fire, and we were able to hold the fire in place, that we didn’t have extension into the North Peace Arena or into the swimming pool.” The fire, which ignited in the North Peace Gymnastics Club facility, took several hours to put out, and as a result there is substantial damage to the affected areas. “There’s heavy fire loss in the gymnasium component of the building, heavy fire loss on the office and where the change rooms were, there’s extensive seat and smoke damage in the gymnasium itself,” Golob said. “At this time it looks like the office areas and the change areas will probably have to be rebuilt.” After conducting their investigation of the fire, which was delayed because engineers had to be brought in to evaluate the structural integrity of the building, the cause of the blaze is still not known. Extreme heat and fire damage has
eliminated any evidence that would have indicated the cause. “There was no evidence present of any criminal activity within the area of origin, so at this time the fire is not suspicious,” said Dan Golob, training officer with the Fort St. John Fire Department. Nobody was injured from the fire or smoke inhalation. By the time the fire department arrived, the North Peace Leisure Pool, the North Peace Arena, Centennial Park and the Rotary Spray Park had already been fully evacuated by city staff. Photo Credit Bronwyn Scott The pool was occupied, and the customers were evacuated to the nearby An image of the fire damage, taken Monday afternoon, July 20. Pomeroy Sports Centre. “Our staff did an incredible job of to return the locker key, and to be prepared to identify the quickly and safely evacuating the buildings and ensuring contents of the locker to claim their possessions. people got home safely,” said Wally Ferris, general manThere is smoke and water damage throughout the North ager of community services. Peace Leisure Pool and North Peace Arena facility, accord“I am told one of our staff even gave a citizen her shoes ing to a City of Fort St. John press release. as patrons were not permitted to retrieve their possessions First priority is being given to the restoration and reopenfrom their lockers.” ing of the pool. Work began on Mon., July 27. Once that’s That staff member has been identified as Shiane Sells, complete, the contractor will begin to remediate the smoke who works the front desk at the Leisure Pool. and water damage in the rest of the complex. As customers were still in their swim suits, their names The Rotary Spray Park’s electrical systems are located in and numbers were taken down and they were sent home an area of the building that was damaged by the fire. in taxis. As such, the North Peace Leisure Pool, the North Peace According to a City of Fort St. John press release, staff Arena and the Rotary Spray Park will remain closed until members were bagging the locker contents on the morning further notice. The Peace River Regional District office, loof Mon., July 20, and taking them to the Pomeroy Sports cated in the same building, will also be closed. Centre for pick up in the afternoon. Customers were asked
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Page 4
Northeast NEWS
July 30, 2015
were out-of-town guests of the hotel, requiring investigators to travel to their communities. They are still seeking witContinued from Page 2. nesses. “If somebody were to call two officer-involved shootings in Dawson us today, and say they were a witness and Creek and Surrey . . . but we’re all over the they’d been out of town and they just heard province investigating other incidents,” she about it and they have information, we said. would make an immediate plan to interview Since Friday, the IIO has interviewed them as well.” a “number” of witnesses, some of whom Kilpatrick told Northeast News that it is not likely that Dawson Creek Veterinary Clinic any more specifics around the case will be released ENSURE THAT YOUR LARGE ANIMALS ARE IN TOP until the investigation is PERFORMANCE AND EXHIBITION CONDITION! wrapped up. “I know it’s frustrating, We carry show sheens, shampoos, we put out what we can in conditioners, brushes, combs, hoof terms of the evidence, in polishes, hay nets, supplements, terms of what we can firmly blankets & Back on Track products. confirm and corroborate, but everything else remains unSmall Animal: 250-782-5616 Large Animal: 250-782-1080 1080 der active investigation.” 238-116th Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC “We depend so heavily www.dcvet.ca on our witnesses to corroborate the physical evidence or what another witness said, or what a video shows, so we really don’t release specifics, and we likely won’t between now and the end of the investigation.”
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Float on Kiskatinaw leaves four stranded
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STACY THOMAS news@northeastnews.ca DAWSON CREEK - On July 12, Dawson Creek RCMP attended a call for help from four people who had gone floating on the Kiskatinaw River and had lost their way. They had disembarked near Farmington at around 12 p.m., and by 10:30 p.m. had lost their bearings and did not know where they were in relation to the highway. They were able to light a fire and there-
fore could keep warm throughout the evening and into the early hours of the morning. Search and Rescue were dispatched to find the group and they were located at 2:20 a.m. in the morning. They were all uninjured and did not require any medical attention. Police are warning the public to be more prepared if they attempt ventures such as these. They advise to always pack a small medical first aid kit and emergency equipment which could save your life.
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On July 23, 2015, 290 head of cattle went through Vold Jones Vold Auction in Dawson Creek D1 - D2 Cows 128.00-139.00 D3 - D4 Cows 110.00-125.00 Holstein Cows N/A Heiferettes 150.00-175.00 Bologna Bulls 150.00-177.00 Feeder Bulls 160.00-180.00 Good Bred Cows N/A Good Bred Heifers N/A Cow/calf pairs younger 2600.00-3200.00 Cow/calf pairs older N/A Older Cows N/A Milk Cows N/A
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:
195.00-213.00 220.00-238.00 225.00-248.00 250.00-270.00 275.00-295.00 310.00-338.00 315.00-339.00 315.00-340.00
Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers Heifers
180.00-200.00 200.00-220.00 205.00-235.00 240.00-256.00 250.00-275.00 265.00-290.00 270.00-308.00 280.00-310.00
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JOB FAIRS POSTPONED TO SEPTEMBER 2015 SUBMIT YOUR RESUME BY EMAIL TO THE PROJECT’S PREFERRED PROPONENTS BC Hydro originally planned job fairs for the Site C project on July 28, 29, and 30 in Tumbler Ridge, Fort St. John and Chetwynd, respectively. These job fairs will be postponed to September 2015. We apologize for any inconvenience and will be providing new information about the rescheduled job fairs to you as soon as possible. If you are interested in job opportunities, please visit the ‘How to Apply’ section of the Site C project website at sitecproject.com/job-opportunities/how-to-apply for information about jobs and contact information for our preferred proponents. Community Consultation Offices: 9948 - 100th Avenue Fort St. John, BC V1J 1Y5 250 785 3420
The Pearkes Center 10801 Dudley Drive Hudson's Hope, BC V0C 1V0
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July 30, 2015
Northeast NEWS
Page 5
PVLA announces decision to appeal court ruling
Photo Credit File photo Ken Boon, president of the Peace Valley Landowner Association.
BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca FORT ST. JOHN – The Peace Valley Landowner Association will be appealing the B.C. Supreme Court’s decision to dismiss their court challenge on the validity of the Environmental Assessment Certificate for Site C. They made the announcement on Weds., July 22. There were a number of factors that swayed PVLA in favour of appealing.
Number one on our list was how far the judge went in his decision to give free reign to government to make decisions . . . “Number one on our list was how far the judge went in his decision to give free reign to government to make decisions without even needing to consider recommendations from the Joint Review Panel,” Boon explained. “Some of his findings and his decision were pretty scary in that sense. Obviously that didn’t bode well for our case, and we felt also it wouldn’t bode well for future cases where governments will be in a position to make decisions on harmful projects.” PVLA was asking that the project’s environmental certificate, issued by the provincial and federal governments in mid October 2014, be quashed on the grounds that ministers must consider recommendations made by the Joint Review Panel. Hon. Justice Sewell, however, determined that even if the B.C. minister failed to consider the Joint Review Pan-
el’s economic recommendations – pertaining comment on matters in front of the court,” said Dave Conto need, cost, and alternatives to Site C – the way, B.C. Hydro spokesperson for the Site C project. ministerial decision can still be upheld as reasonable. “Essentially he’s given government free COME SEE US AT OUR NEW LOCATION! reign to make decisions without considering 1025 103RD AVENUE, DAWSON CREEK recommendations, which in our view renders Neuro-Structural Integration Therapy (NST) the environmental assessment process meanMassage • Holistic Nutrition Counseling ingless,” Boon said. Live Blood Education In their appeal, PVLA will challenge several of Hon. Justice Sewell’s findings. “The environmental assessment process has to mean something, and stand for something. In our case we’re not arguing the decision that was made, but how it was made,” 250-784-5002 Boon explained. Find us on facebook! “Obviously this is a large expensive project with huge environmental problems, and Hydro justifies that in their argument, and the government, they justify that project on the basis that we need the power and they NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING say it’s cost effective, and FOR PROPOSED OCP & ZONING AMENDMENT BYLAW NO 2202 & 2203, 2015 there’s no alternatives . . . Close to the Natural Springs Golf Resort on Highway 29S those are exactly the things District Lot 2713 PRD, Except Plans 30495 and 31544 that the Joint Review Panel recommended needed reProposal: To re-designate the subject parcel from "Agriculture- Rural” to "Residential” and rezone the view by the BCUC . . . parcel from A-2 “Large Agricultural Holdings Zone” to RR-1 “Rural Residential 1 Zone”. “I realize the government has to balance these issues in their decision making, but they would have to have very firm confirmation of the need and the cost and the lack of alternatives, in my mind, to move forward. And that’s clearly not the case, so, here we are.” PVLA made the announcement just one day after their court challenge at the federal level played out in Vancouver. There was a This notice is in general form only. Relevant background documents may be inspected between the strong turnout in the gallery, hours of 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding according to Boon. Now holidays, at the Peace River Regional District office located at 1981 Alaska Ave, Dawson Creek, BC. once more all interested parWritten comments or concerns accepted. Chris Cvik, Chief Administrative Officer ties must wait: the judge reWhen: served his decision. Tel: 250-784-3200 For more information: Tues., Aug 11, 2015 at 7:00 pm B.C. Hydro would not Development Services Department Fax: 250-784-3201 comment on PLVA’s deToll Free: 1-800-670-7773 Where: www.prrd.bc.ca Email: prrd.dc@prrd.bc.ca cision to appeal, or on the Chetwynd and District Rec. Centre progress of the federal-level 4552 North Access Road, Chetwynd,BC court challenges. diverse. vast. abundant. “The matters are in front of the court and we don’t
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Page 6
Northeast NEWS
July 30, 2015
Toll Free: 1.877.787.7030 | Phone: 250.787.7030
Black and blue . . . Recently I had the misfortune of taking two baseballs to the face. Perhaps you saw me, and were one of the many individuals who stared, almost said something, swallowed those words and went on. I’m not sure I would have done any differently, but being the ‘victim’ of this situation gave me a chance to think about how society responds to visibly injured women. Day one after the injury, I didn’t wear any makeup to cover it up. I didn’t really think to because I don’t normally wear concealers or foundation. Although embarrassed by how I looked, I couldn’t very well skip work for the next couple of weeks for the bruising to heal. So off I went, going about my business, trying to avoid the awkward glances. After work that first day I realized that I do, in fact, have makeup, and that it might be a good idea to use it. Bruising is hard to cover up, however, and it was still pretty apparent I had suffered a blow to the face of some sort or another. It’s an uncomfortable position to be in, as a girl with a very black eye, and a puffy, swollen lip. I would have gladly told people that my injuries were due to an unfortunate series of events at a baseball game, but only one person in the days and weeks that followed asked. And so many people looked. I couldn’t very well tell everyone who glanced my way that no, my boyfriend doesn’t beat me. Yes, I am a baseball klutz. I’m not sure how I feel about only one person inquiring
about my battered appearance, when everyone noticed. I certainly felt the curiosity behind the stares, the questioning of whether or not someone beat me, the silent judgments. Maybe it’s just a natural human thing: we don’t inquire about what doesn’t directly affect us. Maybe people just looked and held their gaze a little longer than normal because I appeared strange. Maybe people are shy, or afraid to ask in case I actually was a victim of domestic abuse, because how do you respond to that? But what if I was? Would I want people to ask? Would I want to be saved from my unhealthy relationship, want people to know that someone was hurting me? Want someone to come along and help? I’m not sure. I’ve never been in that position. But I do know that when I broke my wrist a few years back, people asked me what happened all the time. But when it’s a face injury? Somehow that’s a different story. Again, I’m not saying that people acted badly by not asking. It would be a little weird if everyone who saw my face came up to inquire how I sustained my injury, or if I was OK. Maybe I’m reading a little too far into this whole thing, and it’s simply that a black eye isn’t as severe an injury as a broken wrist. Doesn’t warrant the questioning and conversation. Of course, I did at times tell people – particularly those I know – I had played a rough game of baseball. But just as it might have felt weird for strangers to come up to me and ask what happened and if I was OK, it would have been weird for me to broadcast to all who looked that I had done the damage myself. It was the first Sunday game of our tournament, and after
having missed Saturday’s games due to work, I was looking forward to playing with my teammates on such a beautiful summer’s day. Perhaps I was a little too gung-ho. Shortly after the start of the game, it hit me. I was on second, running for the ball, just barely out of reach. It bounced up off my shoe and got me in the lip. There was blood – a lot of it – in my mouth, which I swallowed, and a big fleshy gash from contact with my teeth that seemed to tear further as I talked, or moved my face at all. But I kept playing. Fast forward five minutes. I’m up at bat. I swing… and I’m down. Somehow, some way, I managed to hit myself in the eye with the ball. My face all puffy and red and bleeding and bruised, I kept playing. Now, three weeks later, my face has healed. No permanent damage (unless my teeth turn grey and die, I have to watch for that). Also, there is a curious, movable under-theskin lump beneath my eyebrow, but I’m confident that’s nothing serious. Having experienced the awkwardness of a black eye and swollen, cut up lip, I don’t know what I’ll do the next time I see a woman with face injuries. I’d probably assume they had bad luck playing baseball, as I had. But I’m sure, too, the question of abuse would float through my mind, as it must have done for some who looked my way. All I can say with certainty about the experience is I’m glad it’s over. Bronwyn Scott, senior reporter
A better way to support middle class families
Dear editor, Canadians don’t have to settle for the Conservative government’s family policies that give the most money to those who need it the least. The Liberal Party has a better plan, one that is focused on the middle class. Recently Conservative MP Bob Zimmer has been heavily promoting the government’s plan. Its cornerstone is “income splitting”, which gives a $2000 tax break to those making a quarter of a million dollars, but nothing to a single mom. It helps fewer than 15% of Canadian households, and for those few, the biggest gains go to the wealthiest. At a cost of $2 billion a year, income splitting uses an awful lot of money to help a small and select group. No wonder the late Jim Flaherty, while he was Finance Minister, said “I’m not sure that overall it benefits our society”.
The second plank of the Conservative plan takes an identical “cookie cutter” approach to everyone. It provides the exact same limited benefit to the wealthiest as to the working poor. Only the Liberal Party has a plan for more fair, generous support for middle class families and all those working so hard to get there. We will roll together the current jumble of child benefit programs, top them up with money saved from reducing government waste, and target the benefits to lower and middle income families. A new “Canada Child Benefit” (CCB) will provide a lot more help, to nine out of ten families. The CCB will provide up to $553 monthly for each child under six and $450 for each child over six, indexed
to inflation and completely tax-free. The benefit gradually declines for those with higher incomes. A family with one child under six and a household income of $90,000 would receive $3,245 each year, over 50% more than they do today. A Liberal government will give a tax cut to the middle class and provide middle class families with more support. Our plan will create economic growth and put more money in the pockets of those who need it most. That’s real change. Yours sincerely, Kevin Lamoureux, MP, Liberal Party of Canada
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July 30, 2015
Northeast NEWS
City and BCGEU Continued from Front.
Page 7
NLC gets gov’t funding for new trades equipment BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca Northern Lights College students studying trades will have better equipment to help prepare them for their chosen careers thanks to $828,526 in funding. On Fri., July 17, the provincial government announced their investment in the college to help pay for such items as a diesel engine bench, an air disc brake trainer, and a wheel loader. “Northern Lights College is committed to delivering high quality trades and apprenticeship training for in-demand jobs in the skilled trades,” said Northern Lights College president Bryn Kulmatycki, in a press release. “This funding will benefit our students, and help NLC provide the hands-on, practical training students need to become job ready in a competitive market.”
The funding for new equipment is part of B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint, which helps align training and education with in-demand jobs across the province. The B.C. government predicts there will be one million job openings in the province by 2022, and that 43 per cent of those jobs will require trades or technical training. “Northern Lights College plays a critical role in training the skilled workers that B.C.’s employers are hiring for in-demand jobs,” said Pat Pimm, MLA for Peace River North. “This is a significant investment at a time when we are expecting a substantial demand for skilled workers in the region.” The provincial government is investing $185-million over three years in new trades training equipment and facilities to support students entering in-demand sectors, including LNG, shipbuilding and ship repairs, and construction.
This is a significant investment . . .
Photo Credit Bronwyn Scott While BCGEU had refused to resume negotiations, Panoulias maintains that the city’s statement was misleading. “It wasn’t so much that the union had refused, the union had asked if there was anything new on the table, and was told no, not from the employer, but from the mediator,” she said. Bargaining between the two parties began on May 20, 2015. There were 22 issues addressed and agreed upon during bargaining. Wages was the final outstanding issue, and the union broke off negotiations on May 29 when the employer made its offer.
It wasn’t so much that the union had refused, the union had asked if there was anything new on the table . . . On June 4, the city applied for a mediator, and on June 24, mediation began. A mediated agreement was signed in good faith by both parties with the understanding that both committees would recommend the agreement to their respective parties, according to a city press release. The agreement would entail a 2.25 per cent wage increase as of July 1, 2015, another 2.25 per cent increase again on January 1, 2016, and a 2.5 per cent increase on Jan. 1, 2017. However, on June 26 city council ratified the agreement, and BCGEU voted against it. On July 17, BCGEU members gave their employer 72 hours advance notice that they would begin labour action on July 20. In the meantime, municipal operations including recreation facilities have been affected by the strike. On Mon., July 20, BCGEU gave the city notice of the immediate withdrawal of services by non-picketing employees to install, maintain or otherwise work on any task related to the installation or maintenance of an ice surface. As a result, ice programming at the Pomeroy Sport Centre will be delayed. The process is complex and time consuming, and requires constant supervision, according to a city press release. Ice making at the Pomeroy Sport Centre typically takes between 14 and 21 days. Program schedules have also been affected by the labour action. The city’s community services staff has changed some program times and locations to reduce the impact of job action on citizens. A new calendar with updated information is available at www.fortstjohn.ca/sunsational-summer-scoop. In addition, a major fire at the North Peace Arena complex on July 18 has impacted recreational services in the city. The BCGEU represents 183 of the union’s 234 employees.
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Page 8
Northeast NEWS
July 30, 2015
DC shooting fallout: BC Hydro reassesses policies around public events; Site C protest cancelled STACY THOMAS news@northeastnews.ca DAWSON CREEK - Job fairs in Tumbler Ridge, Fort St. John and Chetwynd which BC Hydro had planned for Site C recruitment and information have been postponed until September 2015, according to a BC Hydro press release. In a well-circulated release, BC Hydro stated that it is “currently evaluating its policies and procedures for public meetings.” On July 16 a BC Hydro Site C open house in Dawson Creek was disrupted by an individual who was escorted off the premises after he damaged property. That individual remains unidentified. Shortly afterwards, 48-year-old James Daniel McIntyre of Dawson Creek, was shot outside the premises by an
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RCMP officer for allegedly aggressive behaviour. It is still unclear whether McIntyre was protesting the Site C event, although there have been tenuous connections made between the man and the hacktivist group Anonymous. After the incident, Steve Vanagas, Chief Communications Officer for BC Hydro, released this statement to Northeast News:
It advises those interested in employment with the Site C project to visit the website for information and contacts. No further comment has been offered; ”We’re not making any additional comments beyond what’s in the statement,” Dave Conway, spokesperson for BC Hydro told Northeast News. A Site C protest in Vancouver that was scheduled for Thursday July 23 in front of the BC Hydro building, was also cancelled. Because of threats made online by alleged Anonymous members Photo Credit BC Hydro who said they would seek revenge BC Hydro Seven Mile Dam. for McIntyre’s death, the Drums for the Peace River Valley rally was “At this time, we are cancelled to prevent a potential for awaiting more details violence. from the police about the tragic incident outside the Fixx “Everybody is very sad about the person that lost their Urban Grill in Dawson Creek on Thursday night. The in- life,” Joe Foy, national campaign director with the Wildercident did not take place inside the BC Hydro open house ness Committee told CBC. but there were a number of BC Hydro employees inside “We understand that there’ll be strong feelings and just the hotel who were staffing an information session. All don’t know who might show up or what might transpire.” employees were moved to a safe location and we are very Following McIntyre’s death, there was a spate of Twitter thankful that none of our staff were directly involved. The activity by alleged Anonymous users and a news release police investigation is continuing to establish the facts and credited to Anonymous which threatened retaliatory action in the meantime we will not speculate about this incident. in the form of “doxing,” or publicly outing the RCMP ofOur thoughts are with all those affected.” ficer who shot McIntyre. RCMP webpages failed temporarily on July 19 but The latest BC Hydro release states that the intent of the RCMP representatives said the problems were due to mainpostponement is to ensure the safety of public and staff. tenance issues.
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July 30, 2015
Northeast NEWS
Page 9
SPORTS Gord Humphrey unable to finish world championship FORT ST. JOHN – When the 2015 World Jet Boat Championship raced through Peace Island Park on July 2122, crowds were hopeful two times world champion Gord Humphrey would blow the competition out of the water. But the Fort St. John racer had boat troubles, and had to pull out of the championship event. “It was 23 miles up on the Pine, we knew we had a problem basically soon as we left that morning, we only got a couple miles down the river, and we were watching temperatures, and we seen the temperatures climbing in the pump, and so we just tried making it to the top, we knew we had an issue, and basically we just drove it to failure,” he told the Northeast News. That was on Tues., July 21. He knew when he pulled out of the water he wouldn’t be able to compete for an overall score, because that requires the participant start and finish every leg of every race. He’d hoped, however, he’d still be able to compete for the Unlimited Class. He tried to repair his boat, but realized that there were just too many problems with the pump, and at 10 p.m. that evening he threw in the towel.
I’m still pretty happy with the results of the boat. The boat was by far the best handling and the fastest boat in the marathon.
Having been a contender for first place overall, the reality of the situation was tough to swallow. “We’re disappointed being that we had a good two-anda-half minute lead in first place,” Humphrey said. Boat problems are an all too familiar problem during world championships for the local racer. In the last six championship races he’s won two, and the other four his boat has failed when he was in first place. “We won in Mexico last year, and the year previous was New Zealand, and we had a drive shaft failure, and the year before that we had a fuel control line broke on the turbine, and the turbine shut down, and the funny thing about that one, that was the very last day of racing we already completed 500 miles and we only had about 30 miles to finish, and we had like a 10 minute lead in first place,” he said. Needless to say, he couldn’t finish that race either, despite his strong lead. Although he had to pull out of this year’s championship as well, Humphrey is nonetheless pleased with his boat’s performance. “The issue with this one is, it was a brand new boat, it was new everything, front to back, it was the first race the boat’s ever been in, it has never really had a shake down in a real race,” he said. “So I’m still pretty happy with the results of the boat. The boat was by far the best handling and the fastest boat in the marathon. We basically dictated the race up to the point of failure.”
He explained that his boat problems occur because he U.S., and the remainder was from Canada, according to always tries to show up to the races with the top running Brian Mcgregor, race chairman. boat, with the leading edge technology. The event comes to Canada every four years, and the “Unfortunately with the speed and the mannerism of the marathon has to be a minimum of 500 miles, or 804 km. water, how you’re taking the inlet of the water and the vibrations, you know, we’re trying to cope with horsepower, speed, and we’re just trying to bring that reliability in,” Humphrey explained. The marathon began in Grande Prairie, Alberta, then onto Peace River, before coming to B.C. for the Taylor event, and then wrapping up in Alberta again, at Whitecourt. In all of the locations, racers were faced with draught conditions, which presented serious challenges. “Velocity in Grande Prairie, it was basically a trickle of water, so we had to race gravel bars and rock hazards and it was very skinny channels . . . moving on to Peace River, Peace River was worse again, we were running the Smoky in Peace River and basically they were having close to what they would call a September flow rate on the river, which drops it, and the rock hazards, they were just horrible,” Humphrey said. His experience was echoed by others. “A lot of parts are pretty shallow, it’s very hard,” said Alex Rizo, navigator for racer Juan Quiroga, from Mexico. They nonetheless enjoyed the challenge. “We feel really good, this country’s very nice and the people are really, really nice,” Rizo said. Boaters Will and Kyle Petluk, a father and son duo, had an interesting experience on the water about a half a mile away from Peace River, in Alberta. They caught a gust of wind and flipped over backwards, The wait is over! The new W.A.C. Bennett Dam Visitor Centre is sinking their boat. After 20 now open. minutes, they managed to get it out of the water. Come enjoy a wide range of new exhibits, interactive displays They stayed in Peace Rivand a cafe and gift shop filled with unique items. Take an er to make sure the engine was still good, gave it five or optional underground tour showcasing the wonder of one of the six oil changes and did some world’s largest earth-fill structures. testing before heading to Taylor to carry on with the We’re open seven days a week, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily competition. until Labour Day. Rick Hollingworth, from Valleyview, Alberta, took Admission charges apply for the Visitor Centre and include the first place in the overall standings with a race time of optional bus tour. Last tour leaves at 3:30 p.m. 4:06:43. Another Canadian, Tel: 250 783 5048 Chad Burns, from Grimshaw, Alberta, came in secEmail: bennett@bchydro.com ond, with a time of 4:11:31. Web: bchydro.com/bennett With a time of 4:16:45, John Derry, from New Zealand, ranked third. In this year’s championship, there were eight racers from New Zealand, two from Mexico, four from the
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July 30, 2015
Northeast NEWS
Page 11
Blue Fuel Energy’s Chetwynd ‘Sundance’ plant is moving ahead with RBC Capital Markets
Photo Credit Submitted by BFE Gas-to-Gasoline plant in New Zealand.
STACY THOMAS news@northeastnews.ca CHETWYND - The proposed Blue Fuel Energy Corporation (BFE) plant, the 1055-acre natural gas- and renewables-to-gasoline plant slated to be built 23 kilometres east of Chetwynd, has taken a significant step forward by securing the financing services of RBC Capital Markets, as was announced on the company’s website.
“We have been in dialogue with RBC Capital Markets for many years on a range of opportunities and have developed considerable mutual trust”, said Juergen Puetter, CEO of Blue Fuel Energy. “Initially, perhaps, we were ahead of the curve, but RBC Capital Markets has patience and vision; they have stuck with us, recognizing the value inherent in the refinements we have made and the growing demand for a drop-in liquid fuel — which we can make greener and greener as demand grows commensurate with the price on carbon rising.” RBC Capital Markets is part of the Royal Bank of Canada and is one of the 12 largest international investment banks in the world. BFE is a private company based in Victoria, B.C. which is in the process of developing several energy-related projects including the plant in Chetwynd. The plant near Chetwynd, called the Sundance project, will use natural gas and renewable energy such as wind and hydro to produce reduced-carbon gasoline for jurisdictions in North America that have low-carbon fuel standards, such as B.C. and California. Blue Fuel Energy hopes that initial financing will be completed in the fall of 2015, and Juergen Puetter, CEO of BFE, told Northeast News that he hopes to have shovels in the ground next year. A final investment decision should be made by the end of
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2016, a press release stated. It is expected that the plant will be fully operational three years after construction begins, and that once complete it will produce just under 1 billion litres of low carbon intensity gasoline per year. According to a Sundance Fuels information page, the construction project itself will employ around 1,500 to 2,000 people at its peak, not all of whom will be employed on-site. During operation the plant will employ approximately 250 to 300 people on-site. The Sundance project will use water drawn directly from the Pine River. According to BFE information, the Sundance plant will “augment BC’s current plan to become a major LNG exporter and will deliver significant benefits to the Province.”
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Northeast NEWS
July 30, 2015
McHappy Day benefits local charities Wildfires easing up,
just over $14,000, of which 50 per cent was given to the Ronald McDonald House in Vancouver, and the other 50 per cent was divided between the Fort St. John Child Development Centre and the South Peace Child Development Centre. The Ronald McDonald House was a chosen charity because 21 per cent of its users are from Northern B.C., according to Joanne Kitney, community relations representative for McDonald’s. The house itself is a home away from home for seriousPhoto Credit Bronwyn Scott ly ill children and their famiRonald McDonald, Brian Boresky, McDonald’s franchise owner, lies when they have to travel and Richard Pass, CEO of the Ronald McDonald House of B.C. from somewhere in B.C. or the Yukon for treatment at B.C. Children’s Hospitals. BRONWYN SCOTT “It’s to home families whose kids are going through reporter@northeastnews.ca emergency or medical procedures, so they don’t have to fork out the cost of the hotel rooms on top of the travel,” FORT ST. JOHN – Ronald McDonald was in Fort St. explained Kitney. John on Thurs., July 16, and Fri., July 17, to celebrate Mc“Fort St. John utilizes it quite a bit. The people actually Donald’s donations to local charities. in Vancouver don’t use it as much because, obviously they Every year on McHappy Day, which was on May 6 this live there, so they don’t need a place to stay.” year, money is raised to benefit kids across the country. Forty-eight per cent of the children that stay are going This year, one dollar from the sale of every Big Mac sand- through cancer treatment. The average stay is for 54 days, wich, Happy Meal, and any sized hot McCafe beverage but the length of stay varies greatly from situation to situwent to children’s charities. ation. “We sold Happy Hands on that day, and we had other “It depends on diagnoses, if it’s a cancer diagnosis it can donations, we had other promotions, to make a long story be up to nine months, sometimes up to two years depending short, we raised $4.5-million across the country,” said Bri- on the roller coaster they’re on for treatment,” said Richard an Boresky, franchise owner. Pass, CEO of the Ronald McDonald House of B.C. The Fort St. John and Dawson Creek locations raised A brand new house was just built that can accommodate 73 families at one time. B.C.’s Ronald McDonald House is the fifth largest house in the world, out of 348. 2015 PEACE REGION COMMUNITY TO It’s expected to serve over 2,500 families each year. COMMUNITY POKER RUN
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campfire ban lifted in Prince George Fire Centre
BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca Peace residents, it’s time to bust out those marshmallows, because the campfire ban in the Prince George Fire Centre has been lifted. After a few scorching hot weeks and dry conditions fuelling wildfires across the province, cloudier weather has finally set in. As of 12:00 noon on Weds. July 22, the B.C. Wildfire Service changed the fire restrictions to allow campfires, which are defined as being open fires that burn piled material no larger than 0.5-metres high, and 0.5-metres in width. While campfires are allowed, there is still a ban on Category Two and Category Three open fires in the Prince George Fire Centre. This prohibition will remain in effect until Sept. 30, 2015, or until the public is otherwise notified. Prohibited activities specifically include the burning of stubble or grass, any fire larger than a campfire, fireworks and firecrackers, burn barrels, and Tiki style torches. Wildfire conditions With the cooler temperatures and recent rain, the Big Beaver Creek fire, located roughly 50-kilometres south of Fort Nelson and which closed a portion of the Alaska Highway earlier this month, has quieted down and is no longer spreading. The Little Bobtail Lake Fire, discovered May 9 and now spanning 25,569 hectares, is defined as being 100 per cent contained as of Weds., July 22. Previous evacuations, affecting 80 people, have been rescinded. Located roughly 20-kilometres southwest of Fort Nelson, the Akue Creek wildfire, which contributed to the smoky conditions experienced around the Peace earlier this month, has benefitted from over 40-milimetres of rain over the past 48 hours. This fire, discovered on July 1 and believed to have been caused by lightning, now covers an estimated 3,550 hectares. It is not threatening the community of Fort Nelson.
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July 30, 2015
Northeast NEWS
Page 13
Watt’s Happening #61 – Clean Energy Boom
DEMAND WILL DECREASE It seems counterintuitive, with everybody staring at their smart phones and electric cars rising into the mainstream, but contrary to popular opinion (and government pronouncement) global electricity demand is expected to slow, Photo Credit Submitted photo and in some cases, The roof top solar revolution is here, but real government incentives and immediate corporate already is. action are required to avoid the worst consequences of climate change. This 10 kw solar array was Why? Efficiency recently installed at Mile 108 in BC, purchased from Peace Energy Cooperative in Dawson Creek. is number one. Think of the huge leaps in Submitted article by Don Pettit efficiency we have already seen (the LED light bulb comes to mind) and mulThe clean energy revolution is here. Trillions will be tiply that by many, many times. We are still living in “the invested in solar and wind power over the next 25 years, age of waste.” As we emerge from it, driven largely by cost completely changing the way we create and use electricity. competitiveness and the desire for profit, efficient use of If you doubt it, check this out: China has just committed energy will finally take its rightful place as a major driver a staggering USD $6.6 trillion to cap its carbon emissions of the economy. by 2030 and meet 20 percent of its energy needs from zeroEven in developing countries during the rise of their imcarbon sources. That’s just fifteen years from now! mense new middle class, demand is expected to grow by So that final excuse for inaction – that it’s pointless to just half of the normal 3 percent a year that was seen from act on carbon emissions until China does – has just disap- 1990 to 2012. And in developed countries, where renewpeared. ables are coming in strong, per capita demand is already Renewables are now the leading new energy source on dropping. the planet, with first wind and soon solar achieving cost Then add in the fact that homes, businesses and even competitiveness with coal, traditionally the cheapest (and huge corporations will be generating their very own redirtiest) source of electricity. newable energy right on their roofs. They won’t “demand” We’re talking clean energy boom folks. But what will electricity, they will instead by creating it and feeding exthis new world of solar and wind power look like? Lets cess into the rapidly greening grid. have a look at the trends:
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THE FUTURE WILL BE DECENTRALIZED The mega-mind set of the past saw power generation in only one way: huge centralized facilities distributing power to the scattered masses. This was touted as efficient, but today we can look back and see that it was efficient mostly at making a few people a lot of money, but a very inefficient way of making and distributing electricity. The big power revolution of today is happening not with more mega-project announcements, but on the rooftops of ordinary people like you and me. Solar power for the average homeowner is affordable and totally doable now, even in British Columbia where there is little or no support for individuals or businesses wanting to go solar. But where there IS government encouragement, watch out! Germany, the world’s fourth-largest industrial economy
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OILFIELD EQUIPMENT: 300 barrel pre-mix tank, 2 comp, mixing agitator, 480v-3 phase power, explosion proof certified • PICKUPS: 2007 GMC 4wd c/c • 2006 Ford F250 4wd c/c • 2003 Chev 4wd c/c • 2001 Chev 2500HD c/c, dsl, auto • CARS and SUV's: 2006 Hummer H3 SUV, 4wd • 2010 GMC Terrain awd SUV • 2002 Chev Tahoe 4wd SUV • 2009 Dodge Caravan • 1999 Dodge Caravan • 2001 Honda Odyssey minivan • 1997 HUMMER H3 SUV 4WD Mitsibushi Spyder convertible car • TRAILERS: 2003 Rainbow t/a car hauler • 8x20 ft. tri-axle 5th wheel flatdeck • CRAWLER and TRACTORS: Cat D6C crawler, angle blade, hitch, pwr. shift, 1,000 hrs on rebuilt eng • Steiger Bearcat PT225 4wd tractor, 3 hyd, Dika angle blade • Versatile 850 4wd tractor, Leon 14 ft. 6-way blade • Case 1030 tractor, 3pt, pto, Allied 590 fel • TRUCKS: 1965 GMC s/a grain truck • COMBINES and HEADERS: 1997 NH TR98 combine, p/u, chopper, hopper top • 2012 Honeybee WS36 ft. draper header, dbl swath, p/u reel, mts. to fit JD A400 • 1998 NH 971 25 ft. s/c grain header, p/u reel, dbl. knife drive • Trailtech header transport • NH 971 24 ft. s/c grain header, p/u reel • Custom built 25ft. header transport • LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT: 1989 Road King 18 ft. 5th wheel t/a stock trailer • Tuff livestock head gate, neck extender, unused • 6 x 10 ft h/d corral panels, 6 bars, unused • 7.5 x 12 ft heavy duty corral panel gate, unused • (30) 6x24 ft. freestanding livestock panels • (10) 16 ft. freestanding panels with 8 ft. gates • TRAVEL TRAILERS: 1997 Travelaire 25 ft. 5th wheel travel trailer, slide • 1973 GMC Centurion 22 ft. motorhome, 454 eng, a/c, awning • ATV's: 2001 Honda Foreman ES 4wd • 1998 Honda Foreman ES 4wd • 1998 Honda Fourtrax 300 4wd • 1998 Honda Fourtrax 300 4wd • TILLAGE: Kello-Bilt 14 ft. offset disc • JD 22 ft. tandem disc • IHC 39 ft. vibrashank cultivator, mt. harrows • Bourgault 38 ft. vibrashank cutivator, NH3 kit, diamond harrows • Co-op 203 25 ft. d/t cultivator, f/k mt. harrows • Melroe 903 8x16" plow • Versatile 14' field cultivator • NH3 wagon gear • SPRAYERS: 1999 Flexicoil 67XLT 120 ft. p/t sprayer, 1200 gal. tank, 4 nozzle, chem and rinse tank, foam markers • Computor Spray 647/2 60 ft. field sprayer • GRAIN BINS and EQUIPMENT: Twister 1650 bus. bin, wood floor, Spirit River area • Westeel 1650 bus. bin, wood floor, Spirit River area • Grain bin assembly crane • (30) pieces, 32 in. x 9 ft. concrete floor bin forms, (8) 5-ton grain bin jacks • LAWN and GARDEN: JD 260 lawn tractor, 48 in. deck • Yardman 19 in. lawn mower, electric start, rear bagger • 2005 JD x324 lawn tractor, 48 in. deck, 103 hrs • Partial list only, complete list at weaverauctions.com.
AUGERS • 3 PT EQUIPMENT • ATTACHMENTS • SEA CANS and PORTABLE BUILDINGS • SHOP TOOLS • WELDERS • EZEE-KLEEN PRESSURE WASHERS WROUGHT IRON GATES • HEAVY DUTY WORK BENCHES • HEAVY DUTY TOOL BOXES and CABINETS • TIRE CHANGERS • WHEEL BALANCERS TEMPORARY FENCE • AIR IMPACT WRENCHES • SOLAR WELDING HELMETS • STEEL SHELVING • TIRES • FLOOR JACKS
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Page 14
Northeast NEWS
July 30, 2015
and Japan installed one million just last year. India has just increased its already ambitious target of 20,000 megawatts of Continued from Page 13. solar (“a solar panel for every roof”) to an with a population of 80 million, is leading astounding 100,000 megawatts by 2022, the energy revolution, with over one mil- about half of it from roof top solar, and the lion solar roofs and 25,000 wind turbines other half from larger solar arrays. By 2040, roof top solar is expected to be producing about 25 percent of their electrithe cheapest energy source in every major cal needs. Their goal? 100% in 50 years. Australia has some 2 million solar roofs, economy, and will be supplying almost 15 percent of the world’s electricity. CLIMATE STILL SCREWED It’s still not enough though. With “business more or less as usual” global carbon emissions from the power sector are expected to continue to rise until about 2030, pushing us past the 2 degrees of heating of Earth’s atmosphere which is expected to be the pointof-no-return for the worst consequences of climate disruption. There’s still time, we know what to do, and no new technologies are required. But new government and corporate policy Includes Continental Breakfast & Kids Stay Free • Ask for the Shoppers Discount! changes ARE required, now. Not token gestures and long1-877-355-3500 • www.lakeviewhotels.com term promises, but real action, real incentives, right now. There is literally no time to waste. Now Open!
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Photo Credit Stacy Thomas BC Transit, Better at Home and the City of Dawson Creek sponsored a “Tourist in Our Own Town Tour” for local seniors on July 17. Here participants enjoyed tea and learned about the public library.
Big improvements to Alaska Highway Other projects to be undertaken along the highway’s length are spot patching, sweeping, mowing, snow plowing and sanding which will be done between kilometres 133 FORT NELSON - The Alaska Highway to 598 by Merritt company Emcon Services will be receiving a total of $53 million in Inc. This is a 26 month contract beginning awards and investments to go towards sig- April 1 of 2016. nificant improvements to this essential road A $3 million contract was awarded to connecting the North with the rest of the Terrace’s White Bear Industries Ltd. for country. the micro surfacing of 100 kilometres of Job creation will also be a result of this the highway. Federal Infrastructure Investment, acA contract of $14 million will go towards cording to a statement released by MP for the realignment of kilometres 743 to 750 of Prince George–Peace River. Bob Zimmer the highway. This portion of construction on July 24. will be completed by October of 2016. The funding is allocated towards five Six-million dollars were awarded to P.S. contracts, which include $31 million spe- Sidhu Trucking Ltd., of Whitehorse, Yucifically for “highway improvements”. kon, for the realignment of kilometres 736 A contract of $11 million has been to 742. This project started in May 2015 awarded to Interoute Construction Ltd. and and will be complete by October 2015. DGS Astro Paving, both of Fort St. John, “Our Government is focused on what for asphalt concrete paving of kilometres matters to Canadians—jobs and econom458 to 485 of the highway. ic growth. Our investment in the Alaska This project was begun in May of 2015 Highway will not only generate long term and is projected to continue until October economic benefits for the entire region, 2015. but continue to provide safe access to the thousands of Canadians who rely on the Alaska Highway,” said Diane Finley, Minister of Public Works and Government Services. $5.8 billion of federal funds was allocated to national infrastructure renewal in November 2014. A $31 million portion of this fund was allocated towards job creation in B.C. “Our Government is committed to maintaining the safety of its public infrastructure. These infrastructure investments are part of an ongoing program to ensure that the Alaska Highway is well maintained so Hours are: Monday-Friday 5am-10pm that those who use the highSaturday and Sunday 9am-9pm way can make it home safely to their families,” said Zim11605 8 Street, Dawson Creek mer.
STACY THOMAS news@northeastnews.ca
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February 17, 2011
Northeast NEWS NLC president bids president farewell NLC bids farewell
Northeast NEWS
Editor: staff, and has been able to recruit experienced leaders departments. The July 30, 2015in many Page 15 The past five and a half years in the Peace Country as President and CEO of leadership team members are exceptional and I have been proud to work with them Editor:Lights College have been very fulfilling. staff, andthe hasclarity been able recruit experienced leaders inexperienced many departments. The Further, of thetoCollege's vision is attracting professionals Northern team members exceptional and have been proud work with them The five and a halfforyears in when the Peace Country President CEO of who want to contribute toare an organization thatI "knows where it to is going". The past potential I noted NLC I decided to as apply for thisand position is leadership of the College's vision on is attracting experienced professionals Northern Lights College have beenevolving very fulfilling. It alsothe hasclarity been gratifying to collaborate Dual Credit programming with loca and becoming a reality. The addition Further, want to contribute to an organization that "knows where it is going". partners The potential I noted for NLC I decided to apply for position is who School Districts, industry, Aboriginal agencies and other post-secondary of when the Centre of Excellence forthis Clean Energy ALL It alsoNorthern has been gratifying to collaborate on Dual Credit programming locaa evolving and becoming reality.combined The addition Opportunities. The Peace Region is very fortunate with to have Technologies in DawsonaCreek, with through Peace River industry, Aboriginal agencies and other partners of of Industry Excellence for Clean Energy group ofDistricts, exceptional leaders committed to expanding thepost-secondary scope of this program thethe JimCentre Kassen Training Centre/ Oil School SHAREHOLDERS Seed Co-op Ltd. ALL Northernthe Opportunities. The Peace Region is veryeducational fortunate to have a Technologies in Dawson Creek,incombined with through and to spreading word on the benefits of this innovative initiative and Gas Centre of Excellence Fort St. John, Peace River exceptional leadersby committed to for expanding scope of this program the JimNorthern Kassen Lights Industry Training Centre/ Oil group I have of been very impressed the passion learningthe these leaders bring to the allows College to fulfil its brand SHAREHOLDERS Seed Co-op Ltd. spreading on the commitment benefits of this educational initiative and Gas Centre Excellence in Fort St. John, and table,tobut also forthe theirword continuing toinnovative finding learning solutions for the as B.C.'s Energyof College™. haveof been impressed by the passion for learning these leaders bring to the allows Northern Lights College to fulfil brand Iyouth the very region. NLC is committed to providing theitsskilled butthe also for their commitment to finding learning solutions for the as B.C.'s Energy College™. Over years, I havecontinuing received support and encouragement from local politicians workers for these expanding industrial sectors table, Buying a home is usually the largest financial decision any Canadian family willthe ever This the column, written and pub-of theSenator Denean Arntson, CFP youth region. NLC is committed to providing skilled including: Richard Neufeld, the former Minister of Energy, Mines and and supporting economic development of 23, 1:30pm Financial Consultant lished by Investors Group Finanmake –February one that affects your2011 family,•future and lifestyle. It givesworkers rise to afor of questions Over the years, I have received support and encouragement from local politicians these expanding sectors Petroleum Resources; Jay Hill, former Member of Parliament for Prince Georgethe region.lotGiven the scope industrial of the industrial 9319 - 100 Avenue cial Services Inc. (in QuĂŠbec – a – like deciding on the neighbourhood kids will attend, posRycroft Community you’ll Hall live in, the school your Senator Richard Neufeld, former Minister of Mines and and supporting theregion, economic development of including: Peace River; Blair Lekstrom, MLA forthe Peace River South former Minister of expansion in our a major part of my February 23, 2011 •or1:30pm Fort St. John, BC V1J and 1X8Energy, Financial Services Firm), and Insible lifestyle changes, whether not you’ll be able to profit from a possible future 5208 -and 47th Avenue Petroleum Resources; Jay Hill, former Member of Parliament for Prince Georgethe the was scopetovestors ofbuild theGroup industrial Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources; and Pat Pimm, MLA for Peace River role region. at theGiven College capacity Ph: 250-785-4312 Fax: 250-785-2344 Securities Inc. (in sale. Rycroft, AB TOH 3A0 Rycroft Community Hall Peace River; Lekstrom, MLA fordenean.arntson@investorsgroup.com Peace Southmunicipal and formerand Minister of expansion in our region, major part ofinmy North. And IBlair would like to acknowledge the River exceptional regiona through partnerships with aother post-secondary Email: QuĂŠbec, a firm Financial PlanAgenda:Avenue 5208is -always: 47th But the key question How much home can you comfortably And thatwas is and and Petroleum Resources; and Pat Pimm, MLA forCouncils, Peace River role at afford? the and College toning) build capacity leadership provided by the Chiefs and Band Councils, and and institutions industry, to presents ensure that Energy, RRSPS • inveStmentS •Mayors inSURAnCe general informa- Mines 1) To receive the financial statements of the Association for the financial Rycroft, AB TOH 3A0 a year tricky for any homebuyer because there is no easy answer. mortgage end.question North. And I would like Itowas acknowledge thethe exceptional municipaldemonstrated and regiona through partnerships othertionpost-secondary Regional District Boards. impressed• by of leadership fundingStandard provided bywith the government supports ReSPS •quality mORtGAGeS only and is not a solicitation 2) To elect Directors used of the Association. Agenda: to determine your eligibility for a loan include Total Debt loan guidelines by lenders leadership provided by the Chiefs and Band Councils, Mayors and Councils, institutions and industry, and to ensure that by members of the oil and gas and renewable energy industries. Thank you toand al the breadth and depth of needed programming. TM Trademark owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to buy or sell any investments. 3) To To receive appointthe an financial auditor ofstatements the Association. 1) of the Association for the financial to its subsidiary corporations. Mortgage products are offered Service (TDS) and Gross Debt Service allow the lender to Denean CFP 4) To transact such other business, if any, as may properlyratio come(GDS). before The ratios year end.ratio Contact own advisor for District Regional Boards. I was byLights the Management quality ofLtd., leadership demonstrated funding provided by the College government supports for being willing toArntson, work withimpressed Northern College on joint planning tha I knew Northern Lights was ayour "classy" through I.G. Investment Investors Group theelect meeting. 2) To Directors of the Association. Trust Co. Ltd. is a trust company licensed to lend money in Financial Consultant calculate your mortgage in relation to your overall income and the financial obligations but specific about your cir- the region. by members of the oil and gas and renewable energy Thank you to al breadth and depth needed programming. benefits institution when the–of first person to advice welcome all jurisdictions in Canada. Clients industries. with mortgage inquiries 3) To appoint an auditor of the Association. they don’t such tell you mortgage amount you can afford. So here are three be referred toLights an Investors Mortgage Planning cumstances. more for informa4) To transact otherthe business, if any, as may properly comerealistically before being willingBoard to work with will Northern on joint planning tha I knew Northern Lights College was a "classy" The College’s of Governors recruited me College to Group make changes and supported me toFormy Specialist. Insurance products and services distributed the for meeting. tionnew on pleasebenefits contact tips determining how much house you can actually afford. institution when the first person through I.G. Insurance Services Inc. Insurance license to this welcome me whenthe theregion. changes became uncomfortable. I was very appreciative of this suppor jobtopic was sponsored by The Great-West Life Assurance Company. yourme Investors Group 1. Assess your mortgage in relation to your short and long-term financial goals. Work The College’s of Governors recruited me to Boards make changes andprogressive supported toformer my Consultant. and pleased that Board the original Board and succeeding provided the with a financial advisor and mortgage specialist to assess your income and financial when the became uncomfortable. I was veryproud appreciative this supporto new job was direction andchanges encouraged innovation. I am particularly that weofcontinued President, Jim me commitments and establish a reasonable budget that allows you to manage all of your the original Boardofand succeeding Boardsforprovided progressive the focuspleased on the that fundamental mandate providing education quality of life in the Kassen.former He and expenses. Look at how your earning power may change over time, how much you’ll andthat encouraged innovation.toIrequests am particularly proud continued to President, region, and we were responsive by industry forthat newwe programming committedJim 25 direction Together will find a solution. need to save for retirement, and the type of lifestyle you’llwe want to enjoy. the fundamental of providing education for quality offor lifeapplied in the Kassen. He focus I amonlooking forward tomandate the innovative initiatives and opportunities years to NLC Dr. J. Grant Timmins Dr. J. Grant Tim We understand what you’re going through. weenergy were responsive to requests industry for new programming committed 25 region, researchand in that clean technologies that are the planning stages. Through and provided Dr.byin John E. Gentles 2. With your financial commitments and goals mapped out, consider any trade-offs you’re Dr. John E. Ge Together we will find a solution. Dr. Todd J. Lang I am looking forward to thenational innovative andDr. opportunities applied years to aNLC with provincial, andinitiatives international leaders inJ.thisforevolving me with firm partnerships willing to make. A smaller house may offer more flexibility in terms of your lifestyle Todd We understand what you’re going through. FREE confidential consultation, in clean energy technologies thattoare in the planning stages. Through and provided research industry, Northern Lights College is poised demonstrate the strength of its vision foundation and spending. Or perhaps putting your familyFor onyour a tighter budget may allow you to ÂŒ State-of-the-Art eye health FORT ST. JOHN P 250-785-2020 partnerships with provincial, national and international leaders in this evolving me with a firm I will be cheering from afar as these plans become operational. on which to afford a bigger home. FORT ST. JOHN P 250-785-20 and vision examinations CALL For your FREE confidential consultation, industry, Northern Lightsand College is poised demonstrate of its vision foundation My husband Gordon I made friendstowith a numberthe ofstrength very special people build. 3. Review mortgage, at least annually. Your financial picture may change over time, ÂŒ &RQWDFW OHQV Ă€WWLQJ UH Ă€WWLQJ XSJUDGHV Debt your troubles? DAWSON CREEKoperational. 250-782-1121 cheering from these plans become thebe north and we willafar missasyou. We were treated toPthe unique brand of warmth on which h toe Iinwill DAWSON CREEK P 250-782ÂŒ T 'LPHQVLRQDO 5HWLQDO ,PDJLQJ and most mortgages today come with a number ofour options that offer greater flexibility or visit website at CALL My husband andspirit I made friends with awith number of very special people and Gordon innovative we now associate northern British Columbia build. institution is enthusiasm ÂŒ (\HZHDU IRU HYHU\ EXGJHW and the ability to save a great deal of money. These include increasing your payments, Debt troubles? FORT NELSON Pyou 250-774-2020 A fond farewell to you all and our sincere thank for your many kindnesses. in the north and we will miss you. We were treated to the unique brand of warmth fortunate to T h e ÂŒ 6XQJODVVHV 6SRUW *RJJOHV Trustees in Bankruptcy & Proposal Administrators FORT NELSON P 250-774-20 making annual lump sum payments, changing your or visit ourpayment website atfrequency or even ‘blendD. Jean and Valgardson, innovativeDawson spirit weCreek now associate with northern British Columbia have capable institution is enthusiasm ÂŒ ,QGXVWULDO 6DIHW\ (\HZHDU Suite – 102ndyour Street Fort St. John ing 2, or10611 extending’ mortgage to take advantage ofGOVERNMENT low long termLICENCED rates. TRUSTEES 110 –1628inDickson Avenue& Proposal KelownaAdministrators (Resident Office) northernvisioncare faculty and A fond farewell to you all and our sincere thank you for your many kindnesses. fortunate to northernvisioncare.com Trustees Bankruptcy Your home should ndalways be where your heart is – but too much home at too high a price FOCUSED on Family Eyecare D. Jean Valgardson, Dawson Creek have capable Suite 2, 10611 – 102 Street Fort St. John can not only strain your heartKelowna but every other aspect of your family life. Your profesGOVERNMENT LICENCED TRUSTEES 110 –1628 Dickson Avenue (Resident Office) faculty and
Annual General Finding your affordable home Meeting Annual General
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Kristine It Alone in Fort St. John
5 year 7 year 10 year closed closed closed
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69 54 Edith n/a#12 Forest 3.10 Lawn n/aMobile2.Home 2.24 2.44 9619 2.88th 2.64 3.39 3.84 Park Street St John Fabulous spacious home,1600 sq ft on main, full concrete baseSchmidt 00Fort Many new updates! Spacious HST. birch Hardwood in livingrm, 45 001987 14’ wide 002 bdrm mobile 14home 55 ment, 24’X24’ 39 garage. NO 95 75 3 bed, Canadian Imperial in popular Forest Lawn mobile home park! New 3. windows,new 3. tiled4. lg entry,kitchen, bath. Open kitchen has pantry, Edith 4. #12 4. 4. 3. 5.2 14 5.concept, 6. Bank OfCell: Commerce Lawn Mobile HomeandPark 9619 88th Street kitchenForest cabinets,new bathroom, new laminate tile, all new lg island/eating bar. 12’X16’ deck, gas for BBQ. Masterbdrm Stand John Fabulous spacious home,1600 sq sinks, ft on main, concrete 250-263-3030 trim inside out, new paint, new 10x16 deck, 5 min from city in has WI closet, ensuite with dual lg WIfull shower withbasedual Schmidt 30Fort new Spacious 2 bdrm mobile birch Hardwood in livingrm, bed, 14 Inc 301987 14’dwwide 04home 95 ment, 54 garage. 94HST. 45 security 25 3Great country likeupdates! setting! fridge,stove,bi &14 shed. shower24’X24’ heads. InstantNO hot water system, system. Royal Bank 6. Many 3.Forest 6. 3.park! 4. 4. 5. 6. in popular Lawn mobile home New 3. windows,new 3. tiled lg entry,kitchen, 2 bath. Open concept, kitchen has pantry, Cell: neighbourhood.
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7KH %& 63&$ FDUHV IRU at WKRXVDQGV RI RUSKDQHG 250-787-7030 DEDQGRQHG DQG DEXVHG DQLPDOV HDFK \HDU or Ricky
like setting! Incn/a fridge,stove,bi2. dw &39 shed. n/a heads. Instant system, security system. Great in Dawson Creek n/acountry n/a 2.49 shower n/a 3.hot35 watern/a n/a neighbourhood.
Investors Group
$79,900
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$459,900
MLS# N204924
MLS#N206989
at 250-782-7060 n/a 3. n/a 2. 2. 2. www.edithschmidt.com 2.64 2.69 4.09 4.49 Selling Fort St. John since 1996 to book your 00 99 n/a n/a 4. 2.99 2.99www.edithschmidt.com 2.99 2.99 2.99 3.99 ‘It Begins2. with Trust’ space! 4.55 6.30
6.45
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MLS# 1996 N204924 Selling Fort St. John since 95 89 Trust’39 49 ‘It Begins with
5.19
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MLS#N206989
Lending Institutions Current Mortgage Rates 9ROXQWHHUV DUH XUJHQWO\ 6 mth 6 mth 1 year 1 yearCurrent 2 year 3 yearMortgage 4 year 5 year 7 year 10 year Lending Institutions Rates $ $ closed closed closed closed $ Institute open closed open closed closed closed QHHGHG WR FDUH IRU DQLPDOV
Note: Rates are provided for information purposes. Rates should be verified by Financial Institutions.
YOUR 158,000 BUSINESS 339,000 1,299,000 6 mth 6 mth 1 year 1 year 2 year 3 year 4 year 5 year 7 year 10 year DQG DVVLVW ZLWK 63&$ TD Canada Institute BE n/a SEEN 4. open 6.BYclosed 2. closed 4. closed 4. closed 4. closed 4. closed 6. closed 6. open closed Trust COULD HYHQWV ,I \RX FDQ KHOS
0 0 0 , 8 1
*OAC E&OE
60
Carsten Schuett AMP Mortgage Consultant
250.261.6393
carstenschuett@invis.ca 104-9907 99th Avenue, Fort St. John
www.invis.ca CLUB GOLD - Top 10% - CANADA
55
75
20
75
24
59
60
70
65 85 00 4. 6. 6. 3.59 4.60 5.70 SOHDVH FRQWDFW \RXU ORFDO Invis 35 60 15 94 14 45 50 Canadian Imperial VKHOWHU WRGD\ n/a 3.20 3. 3.60 3. 4. 5. 2.85 4.45 n/a 2.85 2. 3.54 4.50 4.65 6.85 6.00 Bank Of Commerce 85 94 14 Canadian Imperial 30 30 19 35 10608 W 109TH ST45 2. Royal Bank 2. 4. 3.35102ND 3.60 AVE 4.15 3. 4. 6.45 6.50DR 6.85 6.10512 4.13385 5.SUNNYSIDE Bank Of Commerce
TD InvisCanada Trust
45 54 50 60 n/a 4.60 6.55 2.75 4. 4. n/a 3.20 4. 3.75 3.24
CLIENTS Wonderful country, lakeside acreage 3 bedrooms,POTENTIAL 3 pce bath. Newer All new homes in this 30 45 30 35 60 15 94 19 35 45 64 15 75 29 00 59 6. 4. 6. 3. 3. 4. 4. 5. 6. n/a n/a 2. 3. 4. 5. 5.50 with a house built 6. in 1994. Good furnace, HWT and roof. Includes all subdivision. Could have a condition throughout. All rooms appliances. Very clean. Protecteron 45 15 29 19 45 30 65 20 24 59 50 60 walk-out basement. Centum Bank of Montreal n/a 6. 2. 3. 4. 4. 5. 5. 6.BOOK 4.55 THIS 3.64 4.75 5.spacious, 5.clean, 6.00 6.59 CALL TOn/a AD TODAY! views. Includes security system not3. on SPACE contract. Royal CentumBank
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6.
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4.
appliances.
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24 14
5. 4.
59 39
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50 60
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6. n/a
Lona Hirtz Cell: 250-261-4134
2. 4. 4. 5. 4. 6. n/a Action Realty (1991) Ltd. • 9711 100 Avenue, Fort St John Note: Rates are provided for information purposes. Rates should be verified by Financial Institutions.
Scotiabank
6.45 4.55 6.50
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30 64
www.spca.bc.ca
64
05
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60
Note: Rates are provided for information purposes. Rates should be verified by Financial Institutions.
Page 16
July 30, 2015
COMMUNITY
Northeast NEWS
Toll Free: 1.877.787.7030 | Phone: 250.787.7030
Upcoming Fort St. John
• Whimsical Wednesdays are back and happening every Wednesday, July 8-Aug. 28. 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Community Garden, located between 102 Ave and 100 Ave, east of 96th St., behind the Church of the Resurrection. NEAT will be doing crafts, playing games, and reading stories. Children of all ages are welcome so are daycares and camps. There is a fee of $2 per caregiver. Rainy days and Mondays always bring us down... so the program will not run in inclement weather. • Fearless Fridays are back and happening every Friday, July 10-August 28. Join us at the Community Garden, located between 102 Ave and 100 Ave, east of 96th St., behind the Church of the Resurrection. We will be doing crafts, games, and reading stories. We want kids of all ages. Daycares and camps are welcome. There is a fee of $2 per caregiver. Rainy days and Mondays always bring us down... so the program will not run in inclement weather. Location: Community Garden - Behind Catholic Church (102 Ave. & 100 Ave.) • Wheelchair Sports Program - Wheelchair sports are becoming popular among both able bodied and individuals who have physical limitations. Our Wheelchair sports program is open for everyone to try. Sport chairs will be available to use for the program. This drop in program will take place at the North Peace Arena from 6:30pm to 8:30pm Aug. 7 and Aug. 21. Adults are $3 and children under 17 $2; cash only. Come out and try a new experience! • Library and Beyond Camp - Every Wednesday: a full-
day camp experience for free! In partnership with SD60’s Settlement Workers in Schools, LAB brings an integrated group of Canadian kids, new and old, out into the community to experience sports, arts and cultural activities in and around Fort St John. Make new friends from around the world! Space is very limited, and registration is required. Kids may register for ONE camp day of their chosing, and go on a waiting list for ONE additional day. This camp is funded by School District 60, Settlement Workers in Schools, and by the Government of Canada (CIC). Ask how your teen (15+) can get involved as a Leader in Training! For more info call the Library at (250)785-3731. • The annual North Peace Fall Fair is coming up, Aug. 1416. Tractor pulls, a cattle show, produce and flowers, sheep dogs herding, a cattle show and more! Camping available nearby on a first come, first serve basis, but arriving several days in advance to secure a spot isn’t allowed. The fair grounds are located 21 km north of Fort St. John on Rose Prairie Road. • Movies In The Park - Friday, Aug. 21, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. These movies will be Penguins of Madagascar and the classic Grease. On top of the movies, there will be food and of course popcorn being sold by the Watt School of Irish Dance. Bring a lawn chair and a blanket and enjoy a show under the stars. • Campfire Cowboy Parking Lot Party, Sat., Sept. 19, at the Fort St. John Legion. Local Live Country Music at 2 p.m. Save the date.
Taylor
• Top level gold panners from around the globe will be showing all us amateurs how it’s done once more at the
43rd annual World’s Invitational Gold Panning Championships in Taylor. This anticipated summer event will take place at Peace Island Park, and will likely draw its usual crowd of over 1,000 people. Duck races, a bannock baking competition, candy rush, an arts and crafts fair, and claim staking are also part of the weekend festivities. Fri., July 31 to Sun., Aug. 2.
Dawson Creek
• Dawson Creek’s Annual United Way Fire Truck Pull will be taking place August 8th at Chances, Dawson Creek. Registration 9:30-10:30 a.m., the pull will take place at 10:30 a.m. BBQ lunch at 12 p.m.. Register online, www.unitedwaynbc.ca, or contact Emily Gallen for pledge forms and waivers at emilyh@unitedwaynbc.ca. Awards given out for fastest pull, best dressed/spirited, and most money raised.
Tumbler Ridge
• Grizfest is back this August long weekend! Music
lovers will enjoy a variety of music and festivities at this annual music festival. The venue is in Tumbler Ridge near the community centre and the high school, located within walking distance of the Lions Flatbed Campground and Monkman RV Park. Have fun with the family at the children’s play area, participate in the horseshoe competition, relax at the beer gardens, or volunteer at the different venues. Rain or shine, the atmosphere is charged with excitement. It is a good idea to have warm clothes and rain gear in case of sudden weather changes. Visit http://www.grizfest. com/ for more information.
July 30, 2015
Northeast NEWS
CLASSIFIEDS NOTICE
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NOTICE Application for Permit amendment Under The Provisions of the Environmental Management Act We, British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority, 22154 Canyon Drive, Box 359, Hudson’s Hope, BC, V0C 1V0, intend to submit this amendment application to the Director to amend Permit 14556, issued March 27, 1997 and last amended October 22, 2010, which authorizes the discharge of refuse to ground and contaminants to air from a Power Generation operation. The land upon which the facility is situated and the discharge occurs is District Lot 1028, Peace River District, located 21 km west of Hudson’s Hope. The amendment requests that the following conditions be changed from a maximum rate of discharge of 568 tonnes per year (section 1.1.1) to a maximum rate of discharge of 1000 tonnes per year. Any person who may be adversely affected by the proposed amendment and wishes to provide relevant information may, within 30 days after the last date of posting, publishing, service or display, send written comments to the applicant, with a copy to the Regional Manager, Environmental Protection at 325 – 1011 Fourth Ave, Prince George, V2L 3H9, or email authorizations.north@gov.bc.ca. The identity of any respondents and the contents of anything submitted in relation to this application will become part of the public record.
Dated this 13 day of July, 2015. Contact person: Vicki Burtt
Telephone No. 250-783-5039
HELP WANTED
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Public Notification Telecommunications Site Providing Enhanced Voice, Data & Internet Services Bell Site Reference: D0203 – Buckinghorse COW
Bell Mobility Inc. in compliance with the Radiocommunications Act and Industry Canada procedure CPC-2-0-03, Issue 5, hereby notifies the residents in the vicinity of Mile 175 Alaska Highway, Pink Mountain of its intentions to develop a Telecommunications Site consisting of a 30 metre cell on wheels tower. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the consultation process established under Industry Canada is intended to allow local land-use authorities the opportunity to address land use concerns, while respecting the federal government’s exclusive jurisdiction in the approval of the siting of radio communication facilities. ANY PERSON may make public comment. Written submission is invited to the individual(s) listed below by August 28, 2015 with respect to this matter.
Bell Mobility Contact Cathy Bilotta Standard land Company Agents for Bell Mobility Inc. Suite 600, 366 Bay Street Toronto, ON M5H 4B2 Phone: 1-877-598-1116 Fax: (416) 598-1139 commentsBC@standardland.com
Land Use Contact
Bruce Simard General Manager of Development Services Peace River Regional District Dawson Creek Head Office P.O. Box 810, 1981 Alaska Avenue Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4H8 Phone: (250) 784-3200 Fax: (250) 784-3201 Bruce.Simard@prrd.bc.ca
HELP WANTED
PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT Career Opportunity ASSISTANT MANAGER OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) has an immediate opportunity for an effective and innovative professional with initiative and leadership qualities. The economic boom in northeast BC is driving the need for proactive land management that balances the benefits of a surging resource sector with the interests of residents and communities. Covering an area of about 119,000 km2 in northeastern BC, the Peace River Regional District includes seven municipalities and four electoral areas, representing a population of just over 60,000, including a rural population of 20,600. The region offers a diversity of interests and opportunities with an affordable lifestyle. Reporting to the General Manager of Development Services, the primary duties of the Assistant Manager of Development Services will be to conduct long range planning for the regional area. This will include research, public involvement, and policy development, culminating in the creation of official community plans, zoning bylaws and other land use management tools as required. The Assistant Manager of Development Services will also assist the General Manager in the daily operation and supervision of the development services department and act in the absence of the General Manager. With a staff of nine, the development services department includes the functions of long range planning, current planning, building inspection, bylaw enforcement, GIS and information systems. As a preferred candidate you will have a university degree in land use planning and at least five years of policy planning experience, preferably in a British Columbia Regional District setting. Excellent interpersonal, writing and presentation skills are essential for communicating with the public, elected officials and other government agencies. Demonstration of superior facilitation, problem solving, and project management skills will be a definite asset. This demanding position will be of interest to individuals interested in management opportunities and in the application of specialized knowledge based on planning principles, practice and techniques. Broad familiarity with standard office computers, business software, and GIS is desirable. A valid BC driver’s license is required as extensive travel around the region will be required. A competitive salary and excellent benefit package is available with this exempt position. Please submit your resume along with a cover letter by Friday, August 14, 2015 in confidence to: Mr. Bruce Simard, MCIP, RPP, General Manager of Development Services Peace River Regional District Box 810, Dawson Creek, BC, V1G 4H8 Phone: 1-800-670-7773 Fax: 1-250-784-3220 e-mail: bruce.simard@prrd.bc.ca web page: www.prrd.bc.ca The Regional District thanks all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for interview will be contacted.
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Page 18
Northeast NEWS
July 30, 2015
CLASSIFIEDS
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Peace River Regional District Employment Opportunity PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT
PARKS & RURAL RECREATION COORDINATOR Full-time Permanent Position
Join us in BC’s Peace Region! The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) includes 4 electoral areas and 7 member municipalities while boasting a wide range of topography and diversity over its some 12 million hectares. From the Rocky Mountains in the west to the Interior Plains in the east, the Peace offers some of the best scenery and outdoor recreational activities in the Province. With a strong regional economy, based on agriculture, oil and gas and forestry, this growing region is an exciting place to work and live. The PRRD is seeking an energetic and qualified individual for the position of Parks & Rural Recreation Coordinator. Reporting to the General Manager of Community & Electoral Area Services, the Coordinator is responsible for assisting in the delivery of a wide range of services including: coordination of our five regional parks; assisting with the implementation of the newly adopted Regional Parks & Trails Master Plan; and providing support and liaising with recreation providers that operate arenas and community halls; and assisting in the implementation of lease and use agreements for Regional District facilities.
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Your ability to develop relationships with diverse stakeholder groups along with your experience in conducting research, developing reports and plans will be an asset. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends will be required in order to meet with volunteer organizations providing rural recreation services.
A combination of training and experience in any of the above noted disciplines is welcomed. This is a unionized position currently paying $33.38 per hour and includes a competitive benefits package, based on a 35 hour week. A detailed job description is available at www.prrd.bc.ca. Applicants are invited to submit their resumes, complete with cover letter and references “in confidence” to: Peace River Regional District Attention: Trish Morgan, General Manager of Community & Electoral Area Services PO Box 810, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4H8 Email: reception.dc@prrd.bc.ca Telephone: (250) 784-3200 Fax: (250) 784-3220 Closing date for this opportunity will be 4:30 on Friday, August 14, 2015. We thank you for your interest, however, only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.
Contact our ofce for more information! Phone: 250-785-2662 Email: reception@licar.ca
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The ideal candidate will have experience working in recreation facilities; administering facility use and lease agreements; coordinating park operations; assisting with the development of policies, procedures and bylaws to support long-terms plans and operations; liaising with a variety of community and provincial organizations; and supporting volunteer groups.
Qualifications: • College or University graduation with a focus on recreation leadership, recreation facility management or parks management or an equivalent combination of related education, training and experience. • 3 years experience in local government, preferably in recreation facility operations or parks planning. • Experience working with volunteer organizations in a rural setting. • Proven public relations, public speaking and presentation skills; strong customer service skills. • Excellent organizational and project management skills, ability to establish priorities, independently coordinate workloads to meet timelines and budget expectations. • Proven ability to compose and edit correspondence and documents, as well as, excellent analytical report writing skills; good attention to detail. • Valid BC Driver’s License & Criminal Record Check
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July 30, 2015
Northeast NEWS
Page 19
South Peace Arts Society will receive compensation for loss of revenue during DC Art Gallery closure STACY THOMAS news@northeastnews.ca DAWSON CREEK - After lengthy discussion at its July 20 meeting, City of Dawson Creek council decided to reimburse the South Peace Arts Society (SPAS) for loss of revenue while the grain elevator building the SPAC operates its gallery out of is closed for extensive renovations. Kit Fast, Curator of the Dawson Creek Art Gallery (DCAG) had sent correspondece to council and Mayor requesting compensation for the loss of revenue and uses of associated facilities. The calculated amount of loss from August 1 to November 30 was placed at $32,448.03, based on numbers from the past three years. The closure of the gallery and other subsidiary buildings is due to City-ordered necessary renovations. According to the letter, the amount of losses quoted does not include the costs maintaining an office downtown, exhibitions in the Calvin Kruk Centre, and moving various art classes to the O’Brien Centre. It also states that even though the closure is only planned until November 30, this time line will affect revenue during the lucrative Christmas season. Councillors were split on whether the City should be on the hook for the Gallery’s lost revenues. “We provide a building for the Arts Council to have an art gallery, which to me is the same type of or similar to the motocross reach, or the Curling Club, or many other amenities that we have.” said Paul Gevatkoff. “So I don’ t see the responsibility at all connected to the city if there’s a disruption of service. We’re spending $1.2 million or whatever on improving the building, so I don’t see where we have any responsibility to cover the losses . .
. I don’t see where this loss jeopardizes the existence of this arts council. To me if you shut it down for three months, what costs are you not able to meet? So you lay off your people and you really have no costs, because what other costs are there? For us to give them $30,000 anticipating that that’s going to be the loss, it just doesn’t seem right to me.” Other councillors saw the issue as more than a purely financial one. “What this brings to mind is the somewhat miserable winter we had, when we had to close the Memorial Arena, the Kin Arena and the Curling Club . . . but what did we do, we spent 300 odd-thousand . . . putting ice into the Encana Events Centre so the kids could have hockey. If it’s good enough for hockey, we should be treating the art community the same as the hockey community,” said Charlie Parslow. “I’m philosophically opposed to giving them money at all,” said Gevatkoff. “The difference between an arena and the art gallery is that the city is providing the service, and the arena. It’s not a non-profit organization, it’s the city. Here we have a non-profit organization providing service in a city building, are we responsible for their well being? Then why don’t we just say, okay it’s the City of Dawson Creek’s art gallery, and we’ll run it and put the city of Dawson Creek staff in it. . . . There’s seven of us here, we all agreed that the fiscal gap was number one priority.” Mark Rogers suggested a more prudent approach to the reimbursement, such as waiting for the construction to be completed and to assess the numbers and compensation at that time, to account for profits that the Society will gain this season from sales at the Calvin Kruk Centre for the
Arts and also at the Dawson Creek tourist information centre. In the end the Society’s defendors did win out. “I support that 100 per cent. It’s not an ongoing fund, it’s to get them through this part of the season where we’re going to have to close the doors, and it’s a reality, and it is our due diligence in time that some of our structures are aging, and we need to look at them, to have them and to provide quality of life and service to our community,” said Shaely Wilbur. “So the thought that we would not fund the arts but we’ll fund sports, I think we have to fund everything and I think we have to do it in due diligence, and we’re doing this one building at a time, and we’re getting there. I do pat the Society on the back for looking at every option that they had to stay open.” It was decided to assess the loss of revenue at the end of construction, and to reimburse the Society at that time for lost revenue due to the gallery closure. Mayor Dale Bumstead said that there was a committment made to continue the operation of the SPAC into the future, and that the Society was asked to provide financial information so that compensation could be properly assessed. “We have to prove that assurance to them, that the impacts for them, that they face in the future are going to be met, and ensure they’re going to still be viable,” Bumstead said. “We have to make that commitment to them to ensure that they can plan for the future viability of the arts society and the operation of that facility.”
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Mike Bernier, MLA
Proud to support the Dawson Creek Exhibition & Stampede
Mike Bernier, MLA
Peace River South Office Contact Information
Email: Mike.Bernier.MLA@leg.bc.ca Proud to support the Dawson Creek Exhibition & Stampede
103-1100 Alaska Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC Phone: (250) 782-3430 / 1-855-582-3430
Photo Credit Stacy Thomas Twenty-six mmbers of Texas 4000 Fighting Cancer Every Mile were in Dawson Creek on July 17 to raise awareness about their ride. This summer 72 students from the University of Texas will ride from Austin to Alaska in 70 days, to fundraise for cancer research. The ride started in 2002, and since then the riders have cumulatively raised $4.5 milion to fight cancer. Pictured with them on the far right is Sharon Chard from Yakima, Washington who is a two-time breast cancer survivor. To read riders’ blogs go to www.texas4000.
www.MikeBernierMLA.ca
Peace River South Office Contact Information 103-1100 Alaska Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC Phone: (250) 782-3430 / 1-855-582-3430
Email: Mike.Bernier.MLA@leg.bc.ca
www.MikeBernierMLA.ca
July 30, 2015
Northeast NEWS
FORT CI T Y CH RYS LER
www.fortcitychrysler.ca • 250-787-5220 8424 Alaska Road, Fort St. John
1.877.787.5220
Page 20
DLR#10428 R0011083401
All payments include taxes and fees of $523.00 and are calculated bi weekly over 96 month term at 3.49%. OAC pictures are for display purposes only and vehicles may not be exactly as illustrated. See dealer for complete details.