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PRRD PRRD is holding referendums on rural water and sewage
August 13, 2015 | Vol. 12 - Nº 33
INSIDE
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Bernier’s new post MLA is Minister of Education Photo Credit Stacy Thomas Todd McCracken of Manning, Alberta, was one of 19 Western Chuckwagon Association (WCA) drivers who raced in the Dawson Creek Exhibition’s Association Chuckwagon Show from August 7 - 9. McCracken is also the 2015 WCA Pro Tour Chariot Champion.
Community left without a home BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca
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Parapan Games Wonowon athlete competes Check us out on Facebook & Twitter
FORT ST. JOHN – Weeks after fire ravaged the North Peace Gymnastics Association facility, there are still no answers for the hundreds of kids, athletes and coaches whose lives were uprooted by the blaze. All 11 staff members have been laid off. The 900 athletes who trained there regularly are now idle, faced with the prospect of leaving the sport, or hanging on to see whether the club can find another home. The 1,000 other community members who relied on the gym for recreational purposes – ranging from daycares to church groups, school groups to birthday parties – now have to make other plans.
“We were one of the few facilities in town that worked with everything from toddlers to teenagers to adults,” said Chantelle Yates, coach and recreation co-ordinator. The North Peace Gymnastics Association was open 12 months of the year, seven days a week, 12 hours a day. But now, after the July 18 fire – the cause of which was deemed inconclusive by the investigators due to the severity of the damage – the future of the entire community hangs in the balance. One athlete, who competes at the national level, was unable to train in the days leading up to a major competition. “It probably affected her performance at nationals, she ended up doing her first pass just fine and then on her second pass she
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had to bail to be safe. It was sad and heartbreaking,” said Leanne Couch, the club’s head coach. There are 35 competitive athletes who train at the club. Users come from as far as Chetwynd, Dawson Creek and Hudson’s Hope to train at the only gymnastics facility in the region. “Our competitive athletes are sitting, wondering, questioning. Every day that they miss out on training can be detrimental to their progress,” Couch said. “This is our training time, this is when we would normally start new skills, work on next levels, and we’re just sitting.” Staff, too, has been struggling with the uncertainty. A new hire, from Quesnel, was
Continued on Page 9.
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Page 2
August 13, 2015
MLA Mike Bernier appointed Minister of Education
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Theft of half a million $ in equipment and tools from TR holding area STACY THOMAS news@northeastnews.ca
TUMBLER RIDGE – A local drilling company’s holding area, located on the South Grizzly Forest Service Road near Tumbler Ridge, has suffered some heavy theft, as was reported to Tumbler Ridge RCMP on July 15. The company had set up the lay-down site when their operations were put on hold in late September of 2014. According to an RCMP press release, the items reported stolen are: a 2008 Volvo Excavator model EC210CL, VIN# (vehicle identification number) 111240; a Cat Bull Dozer model D6N LGPD VIN# CAT00D6NADJY00359; two water pumps estimated at $46,000; two trailers estimated at $12,000, and an unknown amount of tools. The total value of the stolen goods is estimated at over a half a million dollars. Tumbler Ridge RCMP are asking any public with any information in regards to this theft to contact the detachment at 250-242-5252 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
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Photo Credit Submitted South Peace River MLA Mike Bernier speaking in a Dawson Creek classroom.
STACY THOMAS news@northeastnews.ca DAWSON CREEK – Mike Bernier, MLA for Peace River South, has been appointed to cabinet as the new Minister of Education. He is replacing Peter Fassbender, who was appointed Minister of Community, Sport, Cultural Development and Minister Responsible for Translink on July 30. Bernier was sworn in on Thursday July 30, and told Northeast News that while it is a large portfolio with complicated implications and stakeholders, he plans to “hit the ground running” by working on relationships first. “One of the good things that I had a good talk with the Premier about is, making sure that we work with the teachers, we work with the teacher’s union, and even the parents here in British Columbia; we want people to be proud of the education system we have here,” Bernier said. “We want parents to be able to be proud to send their kids to school in the morning. So part of my goal is to ensure that I’m working with all of the stakeholders and everybody involved to achieve those goals.” Bernier admitted that with only about 48 hours on the job so far, it’s early days to be talking plans and strate“Training with IHE has enabled me to land my gies. "dream job!" Training with IHE is one of the best “What we’re really needdecisions I have ever made!" ing to look at, and what I’m - Mark M. IHE Grad - May 2015 continuing to look at, is just “It sure opened doors for me. I went from lead how do we have everything operator at a pit to foreman status now. I’ve that’s needed in the classbeen earning $120k/year since I took the course. rooms . . . looking forward to I mean, I just can’t believe it!"
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Photo Credit RCMP submitted Cat Bull Dozer model D6N LGPD VIN# CAT00D6NADJY00359 stolen from holding site near Tumbler Ridge.
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Continued on Page 5.
Photo Credit RCMP submitted 2008 Volvo Excavator model EC210CL, VIN# 111240 stolen from holding site near Tumbler Ridge.
Northeast NEWS
BCGEU and City of Fort St. John ratify an agreement
Photo Credit Bronwyn Scott
BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca FORT ST. JOHN – After just 11 days of labour action, local B.C. Government and Service Employees’ Union workers and the City of Fort St. John have ratified a contract. On Fri., July 31, the two parties released a joint press release announcing that city employees have agreed to a 2.25 per cent increase in their wages beginning July 1, 2015, meaning they will be paid retroactively to that date. They will be receiving another 2.25 per cent increase in wages as of January 1, 2016, and again in one year’s time, on January 1, 2017. Regular full and part time employees will also receive a $750 signing bonus, and auxiliary employees will receive a $350 bonus. “Both negotiation committees worked very hard to ensure this agreement supports both employees and the organization,” said Dianne Hunter, city manager, in a press release. “This is a good agreement for our city and for our valued employees.” BCGEU city workers were asking for higher wages and retroactivity going back to Jan. 1, 2015, as the collective agreement between the BCGEU and the city expired on Dec. 31, 2014. “Their jobs are very busy, there are some work load issues as far as being able to retain a lot of staff. As you know, for most employers up here, they tend to pay above the wage scale because it’s hard to compete with the gas patch,” Angie Panoulias, local BCGEU spokesperson, had told the Northeast News in an interview previous to this agreement. According to a City of Fort St. John press release, the city is among the top paying municipalities in British Columbia, with an average wage that is 105 per cent of its identified comparison communities. Bargaining began on May 20, 2015, and the union broke off negotiations on May 29 when they couldn’t reach an agreement on wages. Mediation began on June 24. Although both parties signed an agreement in good faith, BCGEU voted against it when city council ratified the agreement on June 26. The parties resumed talks on Tues., July 28, and on Weds., July 29, returned to work as a sign of good faith based on the proposal agreed upon by the negotiation committees. “The BCGEU members work hard to provide services to the people of Fort St. John. We are glad to have found common ground with the employer on the working conditions for the next three years,” said Brent Camilleri, BCGEU’s co-ordinator of negotiations. A number of recreational services have been affected by the strike, as the BCGEU represents 183 of the city’s 234 employees. “Council is very pleased that an agreement was reached amicably. We have the hardest working employees in the province, and we know we are lucky to have them,” said Mayor Lori Ackerman, in a press release.
August 13, 2015
Page 3
F.S.J. man requires facial reconstructive surgery after disposal truck accident
In the seven years he’s served with the Fort St. John RCMP detachment, this is the first such incident he’s aware of where an individual incurred injuries from being in or
BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca
Continued on Page 19. FORT ST. JOHN – A 31-year-old Fort St. John man is undergoing facial reconstructive surgery after a run in with a garbage disposal vehicle on Fri., July 24. He’d been sleeping behind a dumpster in the alleyway behind The Salvation Army Northern Centre of Hope when 250-785-9099 a D & T Disposals truck began picking up the dumpster. 9422 100 Street, A bystander flagged the driver, who learned there had Fort St. John been a man sleeping there. “The individual received some non life threatening facial injuries and he required Vold, Jones & Vold Auction Co. Ltd. surgery for that,” said Sgt. Steve Perret, with the Fort DAWSON CREEK AUCTION ‘MILE ZERO CITY’ St. John RCMP. DawsoAve. Dawson Creek, British Columbia 301-116th Dawson Creek Office: 250-782-3766 VJV Main Office: 403-783-5561 Cattle Sales, Don “From what I can see 301-116th Fessler: 250-719-5561 Fax: 250-782-6622 on the police file there was D C some facial injuries but there was no brain damage, so it’s not clear on the file to what extent, but it says that he was On July 30, 2015, 300 head of cattle went through Vold Jones Vold Auction in Dawson Creek going to require surgery, so I D1 - D2 Cows 129.00-138.00 imagine that there was some D3 - D4 Cows 110.00-128.00 Holstein Cows 115.00-126.00 significant injuries that are Heiferettes 155.00-178.00 going to require some treatBologna Bulls 150.00-178.00 ment.” Feeder Bulls 160.00-180.00 The scene was cordoned Good Bred Cows N/A off with police tape and poGood Bred Heifers N/A lice vehicles until late FriCow/calf pairs younger 2700.00-3600.00 day afternoon. The disposal Cow/calf pairs older N/A vehicle remained on scene Older Cows N/A throughout the day. Milk Cows N/A Neither RCMP nor Salvation Army representatives were willing to speak to meGood Feeder Steers 1000 lbs Plus: 195.00-215.00 Heifers 180.00-208.00 dia about the accident in the Good Feeder Steers 900 lbs Plus: 225.00-238.00 Heifers 205.00-227.00 immediate aftermath. Good Feeder Steers 800 lbs Plus: 235.00-256.00 Heifers 215.00-238.00 “It’s just an unfortunate Good Feeder Steers 700 lbs Plus: 260.00-280.00 Heifers 245.00-265.00 set of circumstances. I mean, Good Feeder Steers 600 lbs Plus: 280.00-312.00 Heifers 270.00-292.00 we had a person sleeping in Good Feeder Steers 500 lbs Plus: 300.00-335.00 Heifers 275.00-315.00 behind the dumpster and Good Feeder Steers 400 lbs Plus: 310.00-340.00 Heifers 280.00-315.00 apparently this individual Good Feeder Steers 300 lbs Plus: 315.00-350.00 Heifers 295.00-335.00 was in a position where Next Regular Cattle Sale Tuesday, August 11, 2015. he couldn’t be seen by the CLOSED August 6, 2015 for Fall Fair garbage truck driver, and in lifting the dumpster up it Vold, Jones & Vold Auction Co. Ltd. caused those injuries, so it’s DAWSON CREEK AUCTION ‘MILE ZERO CITY’ just really a case of being in Dawso 301-116th Ave. Dawson Creek, British Columbia Dawson Creek Office: the wrong place at the wrong 301-116th 250-782-3766 VJV Main Office: 403-783-5561 Cattle Sales, Don Fessler: 250-719-5561 Fax: 250-782-6622 time,” Perret said. D C
Canvas Stretching
MARKET REPORT ON JULY 30, 2015
SLAUGHTER CATTLE
STOCKERS AND FEEDERS
WE FUND FISH & WILDLIFE PROJECTS APPLY FOR A GRANT The Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program funds projects that conserve and enhance fish, wildlife and their habitats. We’re looking for projects that align with our Action Plans and people who want funding. •
Submit a mandatory Notice of Intent form by October 2, 2015. This helps us support you to develop your grant application and enables early engagement with First Nations.
•
Submit your grant application by November 20, 2015. Grant applications will be online by October 1, 2015.
Read our FWCP-Peace Region Action plans, download your Notice of Intent form and learn more at fwcp.ca. To talk about your project and learn more about our grants, contact the Program Manager, Dan Bouillon, at dan.bouillon@bchydro.com or 250 783 7509.
The Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program is a partnership between BC Hydro, the Province of B.C., Fisheries and Oceans Canada, First Nations and Public Stakeholders to conserve and enhance fish and wildlife impacted by existing BC Hydro dams. 4683
Page 8
FEEDBACK FEEDBACK
February 17, 2011
Northeast NEWS
Pagepresident 4 August 13, 2015 Editor: NLC The past five and a half years in the Peace Country as President and CEO of Editor:Lights College have been very fulfilling. bids president farewell Northern NLC The five and a halfforyears in when the Peace Country President CEO of The past potential I noted NLC I decided to as apply for thisand position is Lights College have beenevolving very fulfilling. and becoming a reality. The addition bids farewell Northern The potential I noted for NLC I decided to apply for position is of when the Centre of Excellence forthis Clean Energy
staff, and has been able to recruit experienced leaders in many departments. The Northeast NEWS leadership team members are exceptional and I have been proud to work with them staff, andthe hasclarity been able recruit experienced leaders inexperienced many departments. The Further, of thetoCollege's vision is attracting professionals leadership team members exceptional and have been proud work with them who want to contribute toare an organization thatI "knows where it to is going". Further, of the College's vision on is attracting experienced professionals It alsothe hasclarity been gratifying to collaborate Dual Credit programming with loca who want to contribute to an organization that "knows where it is going". partners School Districts, industry, Aboriginal agencies and other post-secondary 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 School Districts, industry, Aboriginal agencies and other post-secondary partners of the Centre of Excellence for Clean Energy group of exceptional leaders committed to expanding the scope of this program the Jim Kassen Industry Training Centre/ Oil 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. Rae Evans 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™. Division Director 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 9319 - 100 Avenue table, but also for their commitment towhat finding learning solutions for the as B.C.'s Energy College™. Over the years, I havecontinuing received andBut encouragement from local politicians workers for these expanding industrial sectors It’s easy to feel invincible when you’re healthy – and let’s hope you stay healthy for a long,support long time. if the unthinkable Fort St. John, BC V1J 1X8 youth of theSenator region. isyou committed to providing the skilled including: Richard Neufeld, thesupports former your Minister of Energy, Mines and andNLC supporting the economic development of happens and become disabled or critically ill? Who would continue to provide the income that family’s lifestyle February 23, 2011 • 1:30pm Ph: 250-785-4312 Fax: 250-785-2344 Over theResources; years, I haveJay received supportMember and encouragement from politicians workers forvital these expanding industrial sectors Petroleum Hill, former of Parliament forlocal Prince Georgetheprovide region. Given the scope of the industrial and essentials like food and shelter? Email: rae.evans@investorsgroup.com Rycroft Community Hall including: Senator Richard Neufeld, the former Minister of Energy, Mines and and supporting the economic development of Peace River; Blair Lekstrom, MLA for Peace River South and former Minister of expansion in our region, a major part of my The right living benefits insurance that fits your needs will provide financial security for the tough times and peace of mind for February 23, 2011 • 1:30pm 5208 RRSPS - 47th• inveStmentS Avenue • inSURAnCe Petroleum Resources; Jay Hill, former Member of Parliament for Prince Georgethe region. Given the scope of the industrial Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources; and Pat Pimm, MLA for Peace River role at the College was to build capacity the good times. ReSPS3A0 • mORtGAGeS Rycroft, AB•TOH Rycroft Community Hall Peace River; Lekstrom, MLA for because Peace and formerand Minister of expansion in our region, aother major partofofincome my should North.you And IBlair would liketotoearn acknowledge the River exceptional regiona through partnerships with Disability Insurance can provide a post-secondary source become unable a living of anSouth injurymunicipal or accident. TM Trademark owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed Agenda: 5208to its - 47th subsidiaryAvenue corporations. Mortgage products are offered Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources; and Pat Pimm, MLA for Peace River role at the College was to build capacity leadership provided by the Chiefs and Band Councils, Mayors and Councils, and institutions and industry, and to ensure that Using savings, drawing from your investments held in your RRSP, or going into debt to finance your loss of income can signifi1) To receive the financial statements of the Association for the financial through I.G. Investment Management Ltd., Investors Group Rycroft, AB TOH 3A0 cantly impact your current as wellsupports as your plans for the future. For business owners, disability insurance essential demonstrated toand regiona year end. Trust Co. Ltd. is a trust company licensed to lend money in North. And I would like Itowas acknowledge thethe exceptional municipal through partnerships other post-secondary Regional District Boards. impressed by quality ofisleadership funding provided bywith thelifestyle government all jurisdictions 2) To elect Directors of the Association. Agenda:in Canada. Clients with mortgage inquiries avoid the personal financial losses that can be fatal to your business. The benefits from a personal owned disability plan and will be you toand leadership provided by the Chiefs and Band Councils, Mayors Councils, institutions and industry, and to ensure that by members of the oil and gas and renewable energy industries. Thank al the breadth and depth of needed programming. will be referred to an Investors Group Mortgage Planning 3) To To receive appointthe an financial auditor ofstatements the Association. 1) of the Association for the financial Specialist. Insurance products and services distributed tax-free and will continue the was benefit period while 4) year To transact if any, as mayServices properly before end. such other business, Regional I was the quality of leadership funding provided by theduring government fordisabled. beingDistrict willingBoards. to work withimpressed NorthernbyLights College on joint demonstrated planning tha I knew Northern Lights College asupports "classy" through I.G. Insurance Inc.come Insurance license theelect meeting. 2) To Directors of the Association. sponsored by The Great-West Life Assurance Company. Critical Illness complements benefits available from a disability plan byand paying out a lump-sum of money ifThank you you to al by members of the oil and gas renewable energy industries. the breadth andInsurance depth needed programming. benefits the region. institution when the of first person to the welcome 3) To appoint an auditor of the Association. contract a specific lifeLights threatening illness, cancer, stroke, orwilling heart Board attack. You can use the funds tome pay treatment, 4) To transact such other business, if any, as may properly come before forThe being to work with Northern Lights College on jointsubplanning tha I knew Northern College was asuch "classy" College’s of Governors recruited tofor make changes and supported me to asmy sidize your income or even to pay off your mortgage, personal or business loans. the meeting. institution when the first personnew to welcome me whenthe theregion. changes became uncomfortable. I was very appreciative of this suppor job was benefits Many assume our healthcare system pay all their expenses if they critiThe College’s ofwill Governors recruited me to makebecome changes andprogressive supported me toformer my and pleased that Board the original Board and succeeding Boards provided theCanadians cally ill but some medications aren’t covered, nor are additional expenses like travel, daycare and me when the changes became uncomfortable. I was very appreciative this supporto new job was direction and encouraged innovation. I am particularly proud that weofcontinued President, Jim homecare. the original Boardofand succeeding Boardsforprovided progressive the focuspleased on the that fundamental mandate providing education quality of life in the Kassen.former He and Term Care Insurance pays out benefits for those requiring homecare including medical Dr. J. Grant Timmins Dr. J. Grant Tim LongPresident, direction and encouraged innovation. I am particularly proud that we continued to Jim region, and that we were responsive to requests by industry for new programming committed 25 care, nursing care in the home, homemaker services, respite care for caregivers, and any other Dr. John Gentles Together we will find solution. Dr.aE. John E. Ge costsKassen. focus on the fundamental mandate of providing education for quality of life in the He I am looking forward to the innovative initiatives and opportunities for applied years to NLC that may arise during the period of impairment. Dr. Todd Lang We understand what you’re going through. Dr.J. Todd J. region, and we were responsive to requests industry for new programming 25 that research in that clean energy technologies that in the planning stages. Through and provided It is committed widely assumed all long term care services are paid for byare theby provincial health care Together we will find a solution. ÂŒ State-of-the-Art eye health I am looking forward to the innovative initiatives and opportunities for applied years to NLC partnerships with provincial, national and international leaders in this evolving me with a firm systems – but this is not the case. The reality is that many necessary services are often in excess FORT ST. JOHN P 250-785-2020 We understand what you’re through. FORT ST. JOHNgoing P 250-785-20 and vision examinations For your FREE confidential consultation, intoclean energy technologies in the planning stages. Through and provided industry, Northern Lights College is poised toare demonstrate the strength of its vision foundation of government aid and research can add up $4,000 in monthly long termthat care costs. ÂŒ &RQWDFW OHQV Ă€WWLQJ UH Ă€WWLQJ XSJUDGHV DAWSON CREEK P 250-782-1121 with provincial, andbecome international leaders this evolving me a firm Iliving will be cheering from afar as national these plans operational. on with which tothat partnerships There’s no doubt benefits insurance coverage can help you control your futureinand DAWSON CREEK P 250-782ÂŒ 'LPHQVLRQDO 5HWLQDO ,PDJLQJ CALL For your FREE confidential consultation, industry, Northern Lightsand College is poised demonstrate of its vision foundation My husband Gordon made friends with a number ofstrength verycan special people build. protect your family’s financial health. However, theIavailable typetoof benefits andthe options Debt troubles? ÂŒ (\HZHDU IRU HYHU\ EXGJHW varyon – that’s whyto you should discuss your needs withasyour professional advisor whounique can help you of warmth I will be cheering from afar these plans become operational. which in the north and we will miss you. We were treated to the brand T h e FORT NELSON P 250-774-2020 or visit our website at NELSON P 250-774-20 ÂŒ 6XQJODVVHV 6SRUW *RJJOHV FORT CALL get the coverage that’s best forhusband you.and Gordon My andspirit I made friends with awith number of very special people innovative we now associate northern British Columbia build. institution is enthusiasm ÂŒ ,QGXVWULDO 6DIHW\ (\HZHDU Debt troubles? This column, written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc. (inyou QuĂŠbec – a Financial 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 Trustees in Bankruptcy & Proposal Administrators northernvisioncare or visit our website at northernvisioncare.com D.Group JeanSecurities Valgardson, enthusiasm and innovative spirit we nowinassociate with northern British haveFirm), capable institution Services andisInvestors Inc. (inDawson QuĂŠbec, aCreek firm Financial Planning) presents gen- Columbia Suite 2, 10611 – 102nd Street Fort St. John FOCUSED on Family Eyecare GOVERNMENT LICENCED TRUSTEES eral information only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any investments. Contact your own advisor forkindnesses. 110 –1628 Dickson Avenue Kelowna (Resident Office) faculty and A fond farewell to you all and our sincere thank you for your many fortunate to Trustees in Bankruptcy & Proposal Administrators specific about your circumstances. For more information this topic please contact your Investors D. Jean Valgardson, Dawsonon Creek haveadvice capable Suite 2, 10611 – 102nd Street Fort St. John GOVERNMENT LICENCED TRUSTEES Group Consultant. 110 –1628 Dickson Avenue Kelowna (Resident Office) faculty and
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August 13, 2015
Northeast NEWS
Bike route for Pouce Coupe
MLA Mike Bernier
STACY THOMAS news@northeastnews.ca
Continued from Page 2.
POUCE COUPE – The Village of Pouce Coupe will be receiving a new separated bike path this year, with help from a grant from the Province of B.C. As part of the B.C. on the Move plan, the government will be contributing $24,750 toward the project, the total cost of which is estimated at $49,500. The grant award, which was announced on July 29, will pay for 50 per cent of the Pouce Coupe Community Interconnection, a 500-metre, two-metre wide separated bike trail that will run from 52nd Avenue at Ball Diamond Road, to the railway tracks beside Highway 2. According to the Cycling Infrastructure Partnerships Program grant application, Pouce Coupe’s contribution to the bike trail will be $24,750. “The Village of Pouce Coupe encourages healthy lifestyles and cycling is part of active transportation,” said William Plowright, mayor of Pouce Coupe. “This project will help increase safety for cyclists and will further develop Pouce Coupe’s cycling network. This path will allow us to further enhance healthy living programs with both younger and older residents.” The project is a BikeBC initiative, a plan to increase cycling infrastructure funding to encourage healthy living and address climate-change, according to the BikeBC webpage. Through BikeBC, the Province will be cost-sharing with municipalities on cycling infrastructure projects such as the one in Pouce Coupe. The projects are meant to promote cycling to work, school and other trips, which will reduce traffic and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The BikeBC page also points out that such cycling infrastructure can encourage tourism. B.C. on the Move has committed $18 million to BikeBC over the next three years. The Province’s investment of $6 million this year will contribute to more than $12 million in bicycling infrastructure development in B.C.
really diving in, we’ve got some amazing staff in the ministry, the deputy minister and all the support staff I have, [they] have a lot of history, understand this file better than anybody, so looking forward to sitting down with them, learning it myself.” While not making any official statements, Bernier did mention rural school and busing issues as local priorities, but said he wanted to “get right into the nuts and bolts of the budget and everything involved . . . to ensure the decisions I do make are the right ones.” Prior to his appointment as Minister of Education, Bernier served as the Parliamentary Secretary for Energy Literacy and the Environment for the Minister of Environment, from December 2014. He has also served two terms as Mayor of Dawson Creek, elected in 2008 and 2011, as well as being a city councillor from 2005 to 2008. In addition to several other official committees and boards, he has served on the B.C. Mayors Climate Leadership Council, the Council of Resource Community Mayors and the Site C Regional and Local Government Liaison Committee. Professionally, he has over 20 years of experience in the
Page 5
natural gas industry. “Really for myself it’s about getting in there now, working on those relationships, to ensure that teachers and the support workers I hear from, they’re the ones right at the front lines, and I want to understand more about what their challenges are, and really starting to work on those relationships, making sure that we all have the same goals at the end of the day, which is helping make sure we have the best education for our students.”
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Northeast NEWS
August 13, 2015
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MP Report by Bob Zimmer What a beautiful summer it has been so far! I have really enjoyed my time travelling throughout Northern BC, visiting with residents and attending some great community events. I have also had the opportunity to take part in several funding announcements which will have a positive impact on communities throughout the region. In the last few weeks I have travelled to many communities in our region to announce our Government’s support for several local projects through our New Building Canada Plan’s Small Communities Fund. In partnership with the province of BC, the Small Communities Fund provides funding for priority public infrastructure projects that deliver on local needs in communities across the province that have fewer than 100,000 residents. Local projects that will benefit from this program include upgrades to the wastewater lagoon treatment facility in Chetwynd, a new storm water management system in Prince George, upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant in Pouce Coupe, the replacement of the Pine Avenue East sewer line in Taylor, and improvements to the Hudson’s Hope wastewater treatment facility. I also had the honour of taking part in announcing funding under the New Building Canada Fund’s ProvincialTerritorial Infrastructure ComponentNational and Regional Projects for upgrades to the Fort Nelson River Bridge, upgrades to Highway 97 north of Fort St. John, improvements to Highway 16 and the expansion of the Northwest Regional Airport facility. This program provides funding in partnership with the Province for projects of national, regional and local significance which are predominantly
medium and large-scale in nature. In addition to this, I was able to announce contract awards totalling $53 million that will go towards highway improvements along the portion of the Alaska Highway maintained by the federal government. As you may know, our Government introduced the new Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program in our most recent Budget. This program is designed to help fund renovations, expansions and rehabilitations to existing infrastructure that provides community and cultural benefits to the public. This month I had the pleasure of announcing our Government’s support for projects that will benefit the Dawson Creek Curling Club and the Fort St. John North Peace Museum thanks to this program. Our Government also supports eligible airports in financing capital projects that will maintain and improve safety through the Airport Capital Assistance Program. I was pleased to announce that both the Northern Rockies Regional Airport and the North Peace Regional Airport will benefit from funding from this program as both airports are important gateways for our residents and businesses. I also had the opportunity to announce funding through our Connecting Canadians program for a Peace Region Internet Society project that will expand high-speed Internet in 16 of our communities. The Northern Rockies Seniors Society, the Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum, and the Legion in Mackenzie also re-
Photo Credit File photo ceived support for their accessibility projects through our Enabling Accessibility Fund. In addition to announcing our Government’s support for these important local projects, I was also able to welcome the Honourable Tony Clement, President of the Treasury Board, to our region. Not only was he able to accompany me to announcements in Taylor and Fort St. John, but we had a productive meeting with local business owners. And finally, I was also able to enjoy some of our region’s notable summer events including the Fort St John Air Show, the Dawson Creek Mile 0 Cruiser Show and Shine, and the Fort St. John Oilmen’s Trapshoot. What a summer it has been so far for Northeastern BC! I am so proud to be able to perform this work on behalf of our region and I am looking forward to getting a chance to meet with more of you as the summer continues.
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August 13, 2015
Northeast NEWS
Page 7
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Northeast NEWS
August 13, 2015
SPORTS Wonowon athlete at the Parapan Am Games BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca
FORT ST. JOHN – Robert “Bo” Hedges, a wheelchair basketball star who hails from Wonowon, B.C., will have the unique experience of performing for a home crowd at
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this year’s Parapan Am Games in Toronto. Having won numerous awards and medals, including gold at the Paralympic Games in London in 2012, Hedges is no stranger to multi sport events. However, performing on Canadian soil will be something of a rare treat.
Family and friends from all over are aware and are able to either come watch, or able to view it easier online or on TV . . . “Family and friends from all over are aware and are able to either come watch, or able to view it easier online or on TV, and so those opportunities for us to show the sport off, and to show what I do and what the rest of my teammates are capable of doing, is an amazing opportunity,” Hedges said, in an interview with the Northeast News. “With that, combined with the rest of Canada being able to really get to know a little bit about wheelchair basketball and what it’s all about, is an amazing opportunity.” The Senior Men’s National Team arrived at the Photo Credit File photo Athletes’ Village on Sun., Aug. 2, and leading up to Robert “Bo” Hedges displays his gold medal he received in London, 2012. their first game on Sat., Aug. 8, they were practicing daily, attending meetings, and participating in petition will be fierce. events with the entire Team Canada. “Within those eight teams, six are very competitive and “It’s actually a little bit of our rest and recuperation time, these last few days,” Hedges said, before the tournament the other two are good teams as well . . . the top two teams began. “It’s kind of nice we’re able to do a little bit of that get to go to Rio de Janeiro the following year, so it’s gorecovery so we’re all ready to get out there and play these ing to be highly competitive trying to get one of those two games, because we’ve been really preparing for them for spots, for us, and for the other countries like Mexico, Argentina, Columbia, the U.S.A.,” Hedges said. over a year now.” When the Men’s National Team won gold in London, With each of eight teams vying for one of two spots at the Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, the com- Hedges was playing with men he’d known and competed with on and off for 15 to 20 years. But since then, about half the team has retired or moved on from the sport, which means his current teammates, although highly skilled athletes, don’t have nearly the same level of experience. “We really have a lot of rookies with this being their first major multi sport event,” Hedges said. Nonetheless, the team has learned to mesh well together. Particularly beneficial is the fact that eight of the 12 team members, including Hedges, now live in the Toronto area, and train on a daily basis together. The other four members come and go, but for the past three months they’ve all been together and able to train as a team consistently, Hedges said. In addition to winning gold in London in 2012, Hedges won bronze at the Paralympic Games in 2008. In 2012 he received the 2012 Canadian Wheelchair Sport Association Stan Stronge Award, and in 2013 he receive the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. This will be his third Parapan Am Games. The inaugural Parapan Am Games was held in Mexico City in 1999, with 1,000 athletes from 18 countries. Since then, the scope of the Games has grown. Toronto 2015, running from Aug. 7-15, will be the fifth edition of the Games. It will also be the largest hosted yet, with 1,608 athletes from 28 countries competing in 15 sports.
August 13, 2015
Northeast NEWS
Page 9
PRRD director asks: What will happen to privately owned water wells, post-Site C? STACY THOMAS news@northeastnews.ca DAWSON CREEK - Two wells—likely to be flooded by
the construction of the BC Hydro Site C dam—became a topic of conversation at the August 6 Peace River Regional District (PRRD) board meeting, as directors discussed BC Hydro’s official feedback to the PRRD’s assessment of its Site C Draft Mitigation and Monitoring Plans. A report with the feedback and a consultant’s comments of the Mitigation feedback was presented to the board at its August 6 meeting. The Mitigation plans and comments are part of the ongoing Community Measures Agreement, wherein BC Hydro is negotiating the specific concerns of communities affected by Site C. Two wells on the private property of Ken (president of the Peace River Landowner’s Association) and Arlene Boon, at Bear Flats on the banks of the Peace River, had been brought to the attention of PRRD director Karen Goodings, who wanted to know what the procedure around the loss of valuable water wells due to Site C would be.
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The wells produce 350 gallons of water-per-minute, she said, and are being used to irrigate the Boons’ land and a market food operation for which they lease the land. “I always thought that they used the river, but apparently they don’t, they use these wells, and these wells produce a lot of really good water,” said Goodings. “I mean this is the same water source, the same aquifer I believe that the city of Fort St. John and the District of Taylor use for their water source. But this is not something that has come up from our point of view as a concern, and I think it needs to be added [to the Mitigation and Monitoring Plans] and expressed.” The two wells in question had been drilled by an energy company which had subsequently granted the rights of one of them to the Boons. They use it for agricultural purposes and the second is not in use.
Continued on Page 15.
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supposed to begin work in mid-August. “For her to uproot and think about moving and quitting her job, and all this kind of stuff, and then to be like, there’s no job to come to, it’s amazing how many people are affected by this incident,” Couch said. As for herself, Couch doesn’t know what she’s going to do. “This is all I’ve ever done, is gymnastics. I started coaching when I was 15, and I continued my programming, all my schooling and all of that is to do with sports education,” she said. “It’s not like we can go down the street and work at the other gym, because there is no other gym.” The staff members who could apply for EI have done so, and they’re now looking for work. “I was hopeful that by now we would have some more answers, and it’s not looking so bright and cheery, and it’s really hard, and I think all the staff are like, OK now what, what’s our plan B?” said Couch. The restoration company that evaluated the damage deemed the facility toxic. None of the gym’s equipment can be salvaged, with the chemicals from melted plastics and rubber having seeped into the soft fabrics and foam. The association’s insurance will cover most of the costs of replacing the equipment, but not all of it. Additionally, the cost of shipping the equipment is not covered. The board is now looking for a temporary location to run the gym out of until something more permanent can be devised, but there’s no telling when that will be. As they leased from the City of Fort St. John, they’re wondering whether or not the city will uphold their lease agreement, and if the city plans to rebuild the centre for them. In the event of a natural disaster, the city can cancel the lease agreement, according to Lorie Barrette, president of the association. However, the club was already busting at the seams, operating at capacity. Five months ago the association put a proposal to the City for a bigger facility. They hadn’t yet heard anything back when the fire broke out. On Mon., Aug. 10, the association spoke before council asking what their plans are for the site. They were hoping to get some answers so they could begin preparing for the future. However, the insurance company hasn’t yet got back to the city, so even council doesn’t know whether the site will be demolished or rebuilt. Council and city staff agreed to try to help with finding a temporary location, and to work with the association. Even if an interim facility is discovered, to prepare it as a gymnastics center and get the equipment shipped will be an estimated $128,000, Barrette said. It’s a steep bill for anyone, not to mention a non-profit organization. They’ve begun planning fundraisers, including a comedy festival that will take place in September. Anyone interested in giving to the cause can visit http:// www.youcaring.com/north-peace-gymnastics-association-408420#.VcToZD6jVrY.mailto.
Page 10
Northeast NEWS
August 13, 2015
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STACY THOMAS news@northeastnews.ca DAWSON CREEK – The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) will be going forward with two referendums early this winter to determine if rural residents will support potable water and sewage functions. It was decided at the July 9 PRRD board meeting that a referendum in November would ask residents of Electoral areas B, C, and D if they would support a potable regional water function. If supported by the referendum the function would see residents contributing to a $2-million per year sub-regional water service that would be raised by an addition to residential property tax of approximately 17 cents per $1,000 of improvement property. At that time Chris Cvik, PRRD chief administrative officer said that a sub-regional sewage function was not far behind. “If we’re planning to do sewer, we should decide which areas we’re going to look at, so when we go out to talk to folks about water in your three areas, if this is supported, we can at least give folks the heads up that sewer is coming as well,” Cvik said to the Electoral Area Directors Committee (EADC), which asked for the referendums. The sewage function will be asking Electoral areas B and
C to support the establishment of capital and operating services at the Charlie Lake Sewage Receiving Facility which is currently under construction. Sewage from users in areas B and C will have sewage trucked to the new Charlie Lake facility. Charlie Lake residents as well all other residents of Electoral areas B and C, if the referendum is supported, will be charged a tax of six cents per (residential) $1,000 of Improvements. Based on this amount, a staff report to the PRRD board stated, approximately $500,000 per year would be raised to be put towards a capital replacement reserve of the Charlie Lake Sewage Receiving Facility and Lagoons. The permanent Charlie Lake sewage receiving facility is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2015. Currently Charlie Lake residents pay a Parcel Tax for sewage infrastructure which has handled their liquid sewage since 1992. Until recently Charlie Lake’s solid sewage waste had been trucked to the City of Fort St. John’s sewage receiving facility, but will now be utilizing the new trucked waste facility. If the referendum is approved, says Shannon Anderson, PRRD deputy chief administrative officer, Charlie Lake’s Parcel Tax for infrastructure use will be placed at $100 per year. The report states that although the initial capital costs of the project have been covered by existing funding, a referendum to create a sewer function in these regions is essential in order to establish a contingency fund which will cover or offset the costs of operations and capital repairs, as well as a replacement reserve. Electoral area D will be discussing access to the Dawson Creek facility for rural residents, and area E will continue to monitor the situation for the present time, the report states. In October of 2014, $50,000 in Feasibility Funds were approved by the PRRD board for advertising and public meetings on these proposed functions. There is $34,322 remaining in this fund. Public consultation meetings will be taking place throughout the Fall of 2015, with a projected referendum date of November 17.
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Northeast NEWS
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show a number counting down which will indicate to pedestrians how long they have to cross until the light changes. “When we look at the work that we’re doing in the South Peace, it’s all about trying to improve safety, and with the DAWSON CREEK – The Ministry of Transportation activity that we have in this area, it’s making sure that we and Infrastructure has announced a $48 million investment can move the goods and move the people and the traffic in South Peace highways and roads, as was announced by around in a safe manner,” said Bernier. 250-784-5002 Peace River South MLA Mike Bernier in Dawson Creek Another significant project taking place in Dawson Creek Find us on facebook! on August 4. will be the addition of a traffic light at the intersection of the Several highway and intersection improvements have Dangerous Goods Route and Highway 97. been announced or are underway, said Bernier. “It’s an intersection that’s seen a lot of increased activLocal improvements include a new pedestrian-controlled ity, so I’m really happy to announce that this year all the overhead-signalized walkway at the intersection of 112 Av- final engineering and work to get that project up and going, enue and Highway 2, and a pedestrian countdown signal at will be worked on this year, with hopefully construction 103 Avenue and Highway 2. on that taking place early 2016. That’s one that I know a “. . . ones that local residents here in Dawson Creek lot of people have been asking for in the community here, mostly, and mayor and council have been specifically ask- for safety but also the [Northern BC] Truckers Association ing me to look at,” Bernier said. have been asking for work there.” More projects throughout the South Peace were announced, such as a $17 million project in the Tower Lakes . . . a lot of seniors seem area which will see 4.4 kilometres of Highway 97 widened to use that intersection, to four lanes. This project will include intersection imand lighting. so we’ll really help them provements Brocor Construction Ltd. of Dawson Creek was awarded hopefully as we go an $11.7 million contract for this project. The work currently underway to widen the base of the forward . . . South Taylor Hill on Highway 97 will continue; the $26 million project is expected to be complete this fall and will also include intersection improvements and a new truck Includes Continental Breakfast & Kids Stay Free • Ask for the Shoppers Discount! “One of those is around pedestrian safety on 8th street, chain-up area. which is part of Highway 2 so that’s within the Ministry’s The South Taylor Hill project is jointly funded by the 1-877-355-3500 • www.lakeviewhotels.com responsibility. So we are happy to announce, at the Safeway governments of B.C. and Canada. intersection, that we are going to be putting . . . overhead As B.C.’s primary north-south route, a government press signalized crossing now for the pedestrians. That’s one that release states, it is integral to the transportation of goods Now Open! we’ve heard quite loudly from a lot of people in the area, and services. that we want to make sure that we do everything possible to “These improvements near Taylor will increase capacity, increase pedestrian safety in mobility and reliability along this corridor and make travel the area.” safer and more efficient for residents, tourists and commerThe countdown pedestri- cial traffic,” Bernier said. “The projects will support ecoan crossing signal is the first nomic growth in the natural gas, forestry and agricultural in Dawson Creek, but a need sectors in the region.” that Bernier identified while Also, 5.6 kilometres of Highway 2 between Rolla Road visiting Vancouver with and 8th Street in Dawson Creek will be widened into four Ministry of Transportation lanes and have improved intersections. staff this summer. The Snake Pit Road, or, the section of Rolla Road be“We thought this is some- tween Highway 49 and Highway 2, is not slated for imthing that we’d like to con- provements as yet. sider having in Dawson “Those are discussions we’re having right now, obviCreek at intersections like ously its an important road,” Bernier said. this, where there’s a lot of “We’ve heard from truckers, from the City of Dawson pedestrians, and more im- Creek, it’s something we need to continue looking at . . . VISIT A portantly, a lot of seniors there’s nothing in the budget this year, but those talks are REGIONAL PARK seem to use that intersec- ongoing and we’re hoping to do something sooner rather THIS SUMMER tion, so we’ll really help than later, because we know it’s important for the region.” them hopefully as we go These projects are part of B.C. on the Move, the 10-year forward,” he said. provincial plan to improve B.C.’s transportation network. The crosswalk signal will “These improvements are a benefit to the entire northDAY USE PARKS OVERNIGHT PARKS east region of the province,” Spencer Tuck Park Blackfoot Park Dawson Creek Veterinary Clinic said Pat Pimm, Peace River North MLA. Sundance Lake Park Minaker River Park “All of these projects in September is Dental Health Month Montney Centennial Park the north help grow the econHaving a veterinarian do a full and complete omy and support expanding dental exam, float (or smooth) the sharp points resource sectors, including and remove those little wolf teeth can help the oil and gas industry and OPEN MAY-SEPTEMBER improve both your horse’s LNG development. North For a full list of park regulations performance as well as Peace residents and industry call us at (250) 784-3200 their overall health. Our travel on these sections of or visit our website. veterinarians have all road almost every time they www.dcvet.ca received additional head south.” training and several of Most projects are expectthem have special interest ed to be completed this year, in equine dentistry. Bernier said, with the exceptions of some intersection Call today and ask about our Dental Promotions for both Small and Large Animals improvements which will be designed this year and conwww.prrd.bc.ca structed next year. Small Animal: 250-782-5616 Large Animal: 250-782-1080
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Page 14
Northeast NEWS said. In his May 19 response to the Boon’s email, in which they requested a public hearing around the Site C water license and permit application, Davidson replied: “Thanks Continued from Page 9. for providing input to the water licence application process. We’ll respond to your request for a public hearing at a later “I guess what I’m trying to say is, I think maybe a follow- time.” up letter to the water comptroller may be in order to talk BC Hydro spokesperson Dave Conway provided the fola bit about the loss of the availability of this water, both lowing comments on the procedure around private wells: for food production and for human consumption,” said “In the event that there is an impact to a well as a result of Goodings. the project, BC Hydro would enter into discussions with “We are struggling, as you all know, we’re struggling for the property owner or water license holder and, where apa water source that we can develop to assist the city of Fort propriate, enter into an agreement with respect to the well.” St. John’s water because they feel that they’re not going Boon, like the PRRD board who have requested that to have enough water for the growth of the city, so I think B.C. government hold issued Site C permits in abeyance there needs to be a further discussion about this, I’m just until current relevant court cases are concluded, is asking not sure how to go about it, but I want to see it registered as for circumspection in the matter of Site C procedure. a concern of this board.” “This river valley has Ken Boon told Northeast a huge capability,” said News that Glen Davidson, . . . to talk a bit about the loss Boon. Comptroller of Water Rights, “We’re just scratching had sent them a request for the surface of it now, but of the availability of this water, comments on the Site C wathat doesn’t mean that it ter license application, as the both for food production and wouldn’t be utilized in Boon’s were identified as the future, especially in proponents who “may be affor human consumption. light of food security isfected by the proposed projsues we’re looking at now ect.” . . . our water wells down Under the BC Water Act on the river there, they’re and the Water Protection Act, reservoir operations in B.C. very shallow and high-production water wells, the river flat are required to apply for a water license from the Comptrol- is basically one huge aquifer, and our bottom field is sitting ler of Water Rights. on an aquifer, and you don’t have to go down very far and The Boons did reply to that request with several written you’re into all of that water . . . I’m sure that many other of concerns, ranging from lost wildlife and vegetation habitats the river flats that would be impacted by Site C are sitting and the loss of heritage buildings, to the specific loss of the on top of the same potential for water wells for irrigation to aquifer, the wells, and revenue. increase production, agriculture production especially, for “We included obviously this water well in our letter, and horticulture, so there’s a huge potential there that’s kind of at the same time we also called for a public hearing to be untapped.” held on the whole issue of the water license for Site C, beInquiries at the Ministry of Environment were not recause that is fully within the right of the water comptroller sponded to by deadline. to call such a hearing, and we have not heard back,” Boon
August 13, 2015
Page 15
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Northeast NEWS
August 13, 2015
ATV injuries and deaths on the rise: RCMP
BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca FORT ST. JOHN – All terrain vehicle injuries and deaths are steadily on the rise, with RCMP responding to significantly more accidents in northern B.C. this year than in the past. A majority of ATV injuries can be prevented by wearing a helmet, driving sober, slowing down, not riding with passengers and taking an ATV riding safety course, but these precautions are being disregarded by many, as evidenced by the high number of injuries and deaths resulting from careless riders. “This year the numbers are just exploding from last year,” said Sgt. Al Steinhauser, with the North District RCMP. “The numbers aren’t in for this year, but the calls that we are attending to have gone up exponentially every month, and now that we’re in the peak season for riding, we get calls probably every day of an ATV involved in a personal injury or a death,” he said. “Just the other week we had one that went over a cliff and wound up dead at the bottom of it, 150-metres down. We’re still trying to determine the cause of that . . . but no matter what the cause is, it’s a death, somebody loved him, and he’s not coming home. So, now a family has to adjust astronomically to get over this.” Injury rates from off road vehicles among men in the north are particularly high, which is partly due to the fact that more men are riding ATV’s than women. However, men are also more likely to engage in risky behaviours, such as riding above safe speeds, stunting, riding without their protective gear, and riding under the influence, according to Holly Christian, Northern Health regional lead. ATV injuries are the leading cause of sports related hospitalizations in northern B.C. Hospitalizations for ATV injuries in the north are four times that of the B.C. rate.
“Between 2001 and 2011 Northern Health experienced the highest rates of death due to off road vehicle injury, with men at more than twice the rate of women. From 2006 to 2011 Northern Health had 33 related ATV deaths, over half of which involved alcohol or drugs,” Christian said, in a Northern Health media teleconference. Most ATV related injuries are seen in men aged 15 to 29 and youth. To stay safe, there are a number of steps to take. “Drive sober, never ride an ATV or any other vehicle for that matter under the influence of alcohol or drugs, never carry a passenger on a single rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV designed for two people,” said Shellie O’Brien, Northern Health injury prevention co-ordinator. “Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed, never ride on paved roads except to cross, and then only when done so safely and permitted by law. And get trained, every rider should take an approved ATV rider safety course.” Additionally, ATV users should wear a sturdy pair of riding boots, a durable pair of goggles, long sleeved shirts and pants, as well as chest protector. ATV’s were originally designed for farming, but have since evolved into the sports models that are popular today. To help keep consumers safe, there are a number of laws to follow. Anyone who operates an off road vehicle on or across a highway is required to obtain basic insurance. Additionally, anyone who operates an off road vehicle on a forest service road is required to have $200,000 in third party liability insurance. On all other crown land, liability insurance is voluntary. Starting this November, it will become mandatory for all off road vehicles operating on Crown land, as well as forest service roads on Crown land, to be registered with issued
Photo Credit MetroCreativeConnection.com plates. This measure will assist RCMP with locating stolen vehicles, as they’ll have a complete database with serial numbers for each vehicle. Off road vehicles operating solely on private property will be exempt from registration.
August 13, 2015
Northeast NEWS
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Administrative Assistant: Are you a 'go-getter' who understands the importance of working as a strong team member? Do you have excellent customer services skills and a professional demure? The successful candidate for this position will provide office support and assistance to the Area Manager and Sales Reps. Duties include reception, support with job planning, administering area billing, sales quotes and any further support required. The right fit for this position will be versatile in skills, at least intermediate in Word and Excel, strong aptitude for learning and excellent attention to detail. This is a full-time opportunity. Senior Accountant: A position with lots of variety and responsibility, the Ideal candidate for this senior position will be well into the CPA program, preference is 4th level. Working within a dynamic team environment the ideal candidate will be strong with numbers and accounting, is able to analyze and track costs, create budgets and provide financial advice. Strong analytical, problem solving and communication skills are also requirements for this position and three years related work experience is preferred. The successful Candidate must have a valid driver’s license is as there is some travel involved. This is a maternity leave position with a possible end date of January 31, 2017. Bookkeeper: Busy office requires someone look after the A/P, A/R, and all aspects of a small payroll (hourly and salary) and all administrative duties. This position is for someone who is self motivated, bondable and able to work without a lot of direction. The successful candidate will be well experienced with Sage/Simply Accounting and open invoice. This is a full time position, Monday to Friday.
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We are seeking a team player with a professional attitude to Description work and learn in a fast paced, business environment. We are seeking a mature reliable team player with a professional attitude Q ualiand cations to work learn in a fast paced, business environment. The ideal candidate must be motivated and take the initiative Qualifications to sell multiple media products, including on-line advertising The ideal candidate must be motivated and take the initiative to sell and special withon-line existing customers and multiple mediaproducts, products, work including advertising and special develop Strong interpersonal and a products, new work customers. with existing customers and develop skills new customers. Strong interpersonal skills and and a strong knowledge sales andAbove strong knowledge of sales marketing are of required. marketingcommunication are required. Above average skills, able average skills, validcommunication driver’s licence and a to work on their own, strong time management skills, valid driver’s licence reliable vehicle are necessary. and a reliable vehicle are necessary. If a rewarding challenge resonates with you, contact us today. If a rewarding challenge resonates with you, contact us today. Please submit your resume and cover letter to: Please submit your resume and cover letter to:
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Northeast NEWS
August 13, 2015
CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Peace River Regional District Employment Opportunity PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT
PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT
PARKS & RURAL RECREATION COORDINATOR
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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 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.
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.
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.
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. 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.
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.
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
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
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.
The Regional District thanks all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for interview will be contacted.
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
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“The The Crack Stops S Here” ALL ICBC PAPERWORK DONE ON SITE
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Finning Frontage Road, Mile 47, Alaska Hwy
FLOORING
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Hours: Mon–Thurs 9am to 5pm Friday 9am to 12pm Sunday 12pm to 3pm
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721A - 100A AVENUE, DAWSON CREEK, BC
Sterling Management Services Ltd. has for rent:
Bach. 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. Townhouses, Duplexes & Houses. Fort St. John Dawson Creek Commercial Space For Lease/Rent
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Mr. E. A. Sponza Commercial & Residential Carpet & Lino Laminate & Hardwood Ceramics & Window Coverings
RENTAL UNITS
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August 13, 2015
Northeast NEWS
Page 19
Massive transformer has arrived at the B.C. Hydro Substation
John, Taylor, and much of the North Peace area. The project, worth $27-million, has been underway since 2014, and is scheduled to be complete in November 2016.
Photo Credit Allan Halcro Photo Credit Bronwyn Scott Police behind The Salvation Army Northern Centre of Hope on Fri., July 24.
Reconstructive surgery Continued from Page 3. near a dumpster. Salvation Army staff educates their clients about the hazards of living on the streets, but sometimes those messages go unheeded. “We do our best to prepare them, but ultimately people make their own decisions, and do what they want to do, so we do talk and we do try and help and provide the most information that we can,” said Sheldon Feener, captain of the Salvation Army in Fort St. John. “We at the Salvation Army are committed to helping our street population and those people that are not in the position that a lot of other people are, so we are committed to helping them out and doing our part. Unfortunately incidents happen, but we are going to do our best to make sure that we’re a part of the solution to these issues.” D & T Disposals representatives refused to comment on the accident.
BRONWYN SCOTT reporter@northeastnews.ca FORT ST. JOHN – A massive transformer, weighing in at 137,000 lbs, or roughly the equivalent of nine male African elephants, has arrived at the Fort St. John B.C. Hydro Substation. The unit rolled into town, transported by truck, at 5 a.m. on Fri., July 31, and on Tues., Aug. 4, was moved into place on site. The Transformer Upgrade Project will include the installation of a new 75MVA, 138/25-kilovolt transformer and the installation of two new 25-kilovolt feeder positions. It will also entail the addition of new 138-kilovolt circuit breakers and voltage transformers, which are at end of life, the replacement of old, obsolete protection and control equipment, and the completion of an expansion to the existing substation yard and control room. B.C. Hydro anticipates electricity demand in the North Peace area to increase by 27 per cent by 2024. The upgrade is required to meet demand, primarily from industrial growth in the region, according to a B.C. Hydro press release. This work is independent of Site C, and will be completed whether or not the hydroelectric dam gets built, according to B.C. Hydro personnel on site. The B.C. Hydro Substation serves customers in Fort St.
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Northeast NEWS
August 13, 2015
Fort City Chrysler
Summer Payment no payments until NOVEMBER 2015 RAM 1500 RC SXT $ 118 from bi-weekly
$ 195 from bi-weekly
15R379
32,768
was $
20,891
$
2015 RAM 3500 SXT CREW 4X4 DIESEL
FORT CI T Y CH RYSLER
$ 303 from bi-weekly
DLR#10428
15HD574
48,998
$
$ 110 m o r f bi-weekly
19,189
44,968
29,999
$
NEW 2015 DODGE JOURNEY CVP $
NEW 2015 DODGE DART SE
was $
15R424
was $
128 frombi-weekly
64,443
was $
NEW 2015 RAM 1500 CREW CAB SXT
15J28
24,248
was $
20,255
$
NEW 2015 JEEP PATRIOT SPORT 4X4 $ 197 m o r f bi-weekly
15D322
17,398
$
15PA211
26,814
was $
21,985
$
10 ,000 Fort City Chrysler $
ask us how to get up to
CASH BACK! See dealer for details
R0011089528
www.fortcitychrysler.ca • 250-787-5220 8424 Alaska Road, Fort St. John
1.877.787.5220
Page 20
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.