Northeast News - December 24th, 2009 by Northeast News

DECEMBER 24 & 31, 2009 Vol.6 - No.48

All You Need To Read • www.northeastnews.ca • All You Need To Read • www.northeastnews.ca • All You Need To Read • www.northeastnews.ca • All You Need To Read

This Week Treaty signed between Province and Treaty 8 in the NEWS!

This is our last issue in 2009! Merry Christmas to everyone in the Northeast!

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By Melanie Robinson FORT ST. JOHN – History was made on Dec. 17 when three First Nations groups, Doig River First Nation, West Moberly First Nation and Prophet River First Nation and the provincial government signed a treaty in Fort St. John. The treaty, which has been in the works for approximately six years, is an agreement for collaborative planning, management and operation of Treaty 8 lands in the Northeast. It will establish a process for Treaty 9 First Nations and the Province to both stimulate investment in the region and provide stability to the land base. While five of the eight Melanie Robinson photo agreements have been Members of three First Nations were on hand on Dec. 17 to sign a treaty agreement with the Province in signed, Minister of Ab- Fort St. John. The treaty itself, however, has been in discussion for approximately six years. From left: Chief original Relations and Norman Davis with Doig River First Nation, Chief Lynette Tsakoza, Prophet River First Nation, Minister Reconciliation George George Abbott, Chief Roland Willson, West Moberly First Nations and Minister Blair Lekstrom Abbott, said he’s confident the others will “We can learn from that and we know mises from both sides. move forward in the new year. we will benefit from that,” he said. “We “These agreements actually work to“The fact that we’ve come so far and always need to be thinking about where wards the relationship that we have enjoyed such success today is a very good we leave our children, our grandchildren, worked, I think, extremely hard at, to indicator that negotiators are working our great grandchildren in terms of the build a bridge that we needed to build, to well together and we will conclude these economic and social legacy but also the come together to address many of the isthings,” said Abbott. “We think it’s a legacy of the land base. So I think the sues that are out there and have been out win-win and obviously First Nations be- good work that we’re doing here today there,” he said. “We’ve reached [agreelieve it is as well.” will be enormously positive in terms of ments] on many but as [Minister Abbott] The agreements signed include amend- ensuring that when we leave this earth said, there is still work ongoing. Everyed economic benefits, government-to- we’ll leave it just a little better place than day we try and improve on what we’ve government protocol, parks collaborative when we arrived.” done the day before, I think these agreemanagement, wildlife collaborative manTreaty 8 Tribal Chief, Liz Logan, said ments show just the results of that hard agement and strategic land and resource negotiations were not always easy but work.” planning. both parties were aware that compromisAbbott said he believes the mining Abbott said the government is aware of es needed to be made. agreement is going to be a challenge, as the importance of lands for First Nations “You come with a mandate and they it has been in the past but both parties groups and that was part of the basis for come with a mandate and you try to echoed the desire to have the rest of the moving forward. meet in the middle and you end up hav- agreements signed early in the New Year. He said the agreement provides the ing to compromise, we always have to go “I know there’s still some work to be government with guide posts to ensure back to our principles and say well this done but I also know that with the very a successful journey through economic is where we’re at, is it acceptable?” she positive and very constructive relationgrowth and environmental protection. said. ship that we’ve been developing between He also said it’s important to remember Minister of Energy, Mines and Petro- the Province and the Treaty 8 First Nathe countless generations of ancestors as leum Resources, Blair Lekstrom said the tions that we’ll be successful there too,” they look into the future. negotiations are all about those compro- said Logan.

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December 24 & 31, 2009

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Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Page 3

EnCana says sour gas leak caused by erosion, but no danger By Matthew Bains POUCE COUPE – Representatives from EnCana believe that an eroded pipe caused a gas leak that forced some residents near Pouce Coupe to evacuate their homes on the morning of Nov.22. “In this case, it appears from our preliminary investigation that sand flowing in the gas stream eroded the inside wall of the pipe to a point where it caused a leak, a small hole that then grew to a larger hole,” said spokesperson Alan Boras, in an interview on Dec. 17. He said a gas leak that contained hydrogen sulphide gas triggered an H2S monitor at approximately 9 a.m., and an emergency shut-off valve was activated. However, the leak occurred upstream from the valve, so crews had to manually close the valve on the wellhead. He said they arrived at the site at about 10 a.m. and were able to shut-in the leak about 45 minutes later. Residents within 1.3 kilometres of the site were told to evacuate their homes and meet at the Tate Creek Community Hall. They were told they could return home at around 12:45 p.m. He said they’ve never had an incident like that in any of the 400 to 500 wells they have in the area. He said an analysis of the metal pipe is being done to determine if it was somehow defective. He said as a precaution they have also shutdown about 60 wells in the area, and have used X-Ray and ultrasound to test other wells for erosion or deterioration. “What we have found in our investigation so far is there’s nothing out of the ordinary, there’s nothing that would lead us to believe any other well has a potential problem like this.” Boras said they are also reviewing the design of the well to see if they could move the emergency shutdown valve upstream of where the leak was so any potential future leak would be shut off automatically. He said they are examining the air monitoring equipment in and around the well site, and reviewing their response time to see if it can be improved. However, some residents in the area had evacuated themselves hours before the leak was detected because they said they could smell the odour of hydrogen sulphide, a distinct rottenegg smell, or another neighbour had warned them about it. One resident who owns the property where the well is located said he heard a sound “like a jet engine going off.” The pair said they couldn’t say exactly when the leak occurred, but there was a noticeable change in gas pressure at about 8:30 a.m. “It’s definitely possible that the leak may have started earlier, but we can only go on what information we have,” said Boras. “That’s why we try to work with the public – if they’ve got information that we don’t have we ask them to give us a call.” Boras said the H2S monitors are triggered when concentrations exceed 10 parts per million, considered an occupational safety threshold, but the odour can be detected by 50 per cent of humans at concentrations of 0.0047 parts per million (according to a study done by the University of Iowa). He said following the leak they monitored in and around the area for H2S and only one monitor detected a concentration of one part per million, the lowest concentration they can detect. Boras said security has been heightened and patrols of the area have been increased fol-

lowing what are now six different unsolved bombings of EnCana installations in the area over the last 14 months, but it would be impossible to have someone covering the whole area in those remote places. EnCana encourages anyone who has concerns about leaks or other safety concerns to call their 24-hour emergency line at (780) 356-6200. The Oil and Gas Commission is conducting its own investigation and will publish a report on the findings on its website on Jan. 11. They will also host a public meeting on the incident at the Pouce Coupe Seniors Hall at 7 p.m. on Jan. 14.

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As you gather with your family and friends this holiday season please remember, if you drink ... don’t drive. On behalf of Leah, my family and staff, I would like to wish Hon. Jay Hill, P.C, M.P. Prince George – Peace River Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

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everyone in Prince GeorgePeace River a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

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Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Minister visits NE to get input on reducing carbon emissions

By Matthew Bains and Melanie Robinson NORTHEAST – A group of citizens in the Northeast had the opportunity to discuss their recommendations on how to reduce the region’s carbon footprint with the minister responsible for moving the province forward on the issue of climate change. John Yap, Minister of State for Climate Action, was in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John on Dec. 15 and 16 to meet with members of the Northeast Citizen’s Conservation Council, one

of seven regional councils who have been working for the last year and a half to come up with local solutions to combat global warming. Yap said he’s received their final reports, and is touring the province to meet with council members to discuss how citizens at the grassroots level might be engaged on the issue. “We need to really celebrate the success stories at the local level in individual communities around the province, and we’ve received some good recommendations on how we do that in a regionally relevant way,” said Yap. He said he’s been impressed by the efforts in Dawson Creek, from the Peace Energy Co-operative to the Bear Mountain Wind Park, and hopes those success stories can be duplicated in other parts of the province. “We need to share these stories and get the word out that when a community comes together at a grassroots level, just like it has happened here in Dawson Creek, we can have great success in the efforts to reduce our carbon footprint as a province,” he said. His visit happens at a time when world leaders are meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark, to attempt to come up with an international consensus on carbon emission reduction targets and alternative energy development aid for developing countries. Premier Gordon Campbell is part of a small delegation representing British Columbia at the summit. Yap said the hope for a binding international agreement is perhaps too optimistic, but he said a political agreement that could lead to a treaty in the future would be a positive step. “In the meantime, there’s a lot of good things that are happening at the sub-national level,” said Yap. “Individual states and provinces are taking action, and British Columbia is part of that group. We’ve really led the country in introducing, for example, aggressive greenhouse gas reduction targets.” That goal, he said, includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 33 per cent by the year 2020 and a longer-term goal of an 80 per cent reduction in emissions by 2050. Ross Peck, a member of the regional council from Hudson’s Hope, said they made a point of trying to get perspectives from outside of Dawson Creek in their group. He said transportation was a major focus because of the challenges of geographical distances between, and lack of public transportation in, communities in the Northeast. He said one of the recommendations was for the Province to revisit vehicle licensing to allow drivers to transfer licenses between smaller

vehicles used for most of the year and larger trucks used in the winter. He said they also looked at ways to reduce vehicle idling, such as providing more plug-ins for vehicles. Peck said the group realized the oil and gas industry is the main employer in the Northeast, and they looked for ways to reduce the footprint of the industry and related businesses without impeding the local economy. He said looking at the options for reducing traffic to and from the field by commuting is something the council explored. Yap said natural gas is the cleanest burning fossil fuel and will be an important resource to help the transition to cleaner forms of energy. “We have this resource and we should take best advantage of it in an environmentally responsible way, but it’s a bridge into the future where we transition to more and more renewable sources of energy,” He said in his visit to a number of oil and gas companies in Fort St. John, he was made aware of a number of initiatives being taken on that will have a great impact on the environment – for the better. Also during his visit to Fort St. John, the minister toured the site of the proposed Site C Dam. He said the region has benefited from the investments made decades ago in hydroelectric power, but said Site C needs to be looked at with great care. He added the province should not be reliant on just one source of alternative energy, but rather a diverse portfolio of sources, as well as measures to conserve energy. When it comes to concerns of those projects, and others like it, however, such as with wind farms in the Chetwynd and Tumbler Ridge areas, Yap said it’s important for residents to realize the proper steps are taken before determining the go-ahead for these projects. “We want to take advantage of the opportunities, whether it’s wind power, biomass, run-of-river, tidal power or solar power, we want to be able to generate clean green energy for the province to meet our needs,” he said. “Any projects need to pass the environmental assessment, need to be accepted by communities and need to be appropriate for the environment.” Yap did say he was happy with the efforts made in the region towards climate action are impressive but all communities need to have the interest and desire to implement policies to reduce their carbon footprints.

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Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Page 5

Necessary changes funded for two Fort St. John facilities

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in the New Year. “We’re determined to go forward as quickly as we can and still do it in a logical and safe manner,” he said.

Lantz said there will be challenges with the timeline for the renovations because of the funding coming through later in the year, but the intention is get the projects underway early

Guit ars Dru ms Cym

By Melanie Robinson FORT ST. JOHN – Two facilities in the city will be receiving some much-needed upgrades in 2010. At an announcement on Dec. 14, local MP Jay Hill unveiled funding for changes to both the North Peace Arena and leisure pool. The funding, through the federal Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, will provide $274,604 for upgrades to the pool and $75,857 to the arena and will make a significant difference to both facilities said Mayor Bruce Lantz. “There’s a need for all of them in one degree or another,” he said. “These are not cosmetic changes for the most part, these are things that are absolutely necessary.” Lantz said at the pool, renovations will include conversions of the pool sanitizing system, remediation of the structural steel columns, correction of ventilation in the pool, replacement of the spring board, replacement of the waterslide stairs, along with replacement of acoustic panels after a report was produced earlier this year indicating there was a need for those changes to be made. “Whether or not this [funding] will allow them to get changing room renovations done is a little bit up in the air because [of the deadline],” he said. At the arena, changes such as improvements to lighting, safety netting, a low emissivity ceiling and rubber flooring will be put in place. The changes at the arena, he said, are important to get underway as soon as possible as the city prepares to host the Allan Cup in 2010. While the funding does not mean all necessary changes to the facilities are able to get done, Lantz said the city and the regional district are happy with what they’re able to achieve and in addition will allow the city to move forward with its new green standards for municipal buildings. “All of these projects are designed to keep our facilities in constantly improving shape,” he said. “Some of that is structural and some of it is to bring it in line with our interest in going green and lessening our carbon footprint.” The money for the funding needs to be put to use by April 20, 2010 for the arena and May 30, 2010 for the pool.

Page 6

December 24 & 31, 2009

Words of Opinion

What a year it was

Northeast NEWS

EDITORIAL

It’s been quite a year, 2009. Before the year began, a number of communities throughout the region saw changes to its councils with a November election. Add on top of that the announcement in October 2008 that Canada was heading into a recession, and 2009 was bound to be a challenging year. Our region, however, in the Northeast, showed just what our capabilities are and, while feeling some aspects of a recession, stayed strong and faired well through a year where many communities are still dealing with the impacts. In fact, our region and the people in it have helped to strengthen the economy of the province in the past year through its contribution from oil and gas land rights sales, the third highest dollars in history accumulated along with the other industries in the region that we are well known for. At the Northeast News we’ve also seen some changes -- from a new owner taking over the company to new and familiar faces working in our offices, we’re worked hard to ensure we are able to provide all of you with the information you are looking for in the Northeast. As we move into 2010, we hope to continue to be that source for news and community events that you have come to know us for, and something we’re proud to provide to you. So from our family to yours as we wrap up 2009, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and all the best in 2010.

MP Report

Celebrating further success in Canada’s 40th Parliament As Parliament recesses for Christmas, I am happy to report that so far this has been one of the most successful Parliaments in terms of government legislation introduced and passed. This is especially surprising given that Canada’s 40th Parliament had a very rough start. Who could have foreseen this legislative success a year ago as a coalition comprised of two parties rejected in a general election a mere two months before, supported by another party committed to breaking up the country, were poised to seize power. As Government House Leader it’s my job to navigate and negotiate legislation through the House of Commons. Yet, we didn’t even have the opportunity to introduce any government legislation in this Parliament’s first sitting last fall. Then when we returned for the second sitting (the true first sitting for all intents and purposes), I wasn’t certain our government would survive the coalition’s lust for power, let alone advance our

four bills have been passed by the House legislation. And yet, I was able to report to you of Commons and are awaiting passage in the Senate. this past June when ParliaAnd there’s the ‘glitch’ ment recessed for the sumin my upbeat report … mer that the “first” sitting the antics of the unelected of the 40th Parliament saw Liberal majority in the the most Government Bills Senate! introduced in any parliaUnfortunately, as the ments’ first sitting since end to their majority ap1993. Furthermore, nearly proaches in the coming half of those bills attained weeks, Liberal Senators “Royal Assent”, or passed By Jay Hill have stepped-up their efinto law, the second highforts to obstruct and gut est “Royal Assent” rate for a first sitting of a parliamentary session important government legislation. In since 1993 …and that was in a majority many cases, as a message of displeasure directed at Michael Ignatieff’s Parliament! In the next sitting, which just wrapped leadership, Liberal Senators have voted up this past week, the news just keeps against or amended the very legislation their elected Liberal counterparts in the getting better. Our Government has introduced a to- House of Commons supported. This is not a simple matter of partisan tal of 70 bills this Parliament. Incredibly, in this splintered minority parlia- gamesmanship. These are serious pieces ment, 34 of those bills, or half, have of legislation designed to enhance the received Royal Assent. An additional safety of Canadians.

For example, they watered down Bill C-15, our Conservative Government’s legislation to impose mandatory prison sentences for drug offences that involve organized crime, violence or preying on youth. They also gutted Bill C-6, our Conservative Government’s key consumer product safety legislation that would have replaced a 40 year-old law and required mandatory product recalls when companies fail to act on legitimate safety concerns. The Liberal Senators’ amendments instead put us behind our international trading partners and erode confidence that we can effectively protect Canadians from companies who profit from dangerous goods. Despite this Liberal obstructionism, when Parliament resumes in the New Year, our government will continue to build upon our success so far and advance our legislation to stimulate our economy and protect Canadians now and in the future.

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December 24 & 31, 2009

Page 7

DC bylaw cover-up Reasons to keep students school open

Editor: I am concerned about a memo from the City of Dawson Creek about a new bylaw reducing the amount of garbage each household is allowed to put out on their curb each week. I have no problem with reducing the amount of bags we are allowed, I believe two is sufficient for most households and I have no problem with recycling what is recyclable. What I do have a problem with is tripling the cost of purchasing bag tags from $1 to $3. Why is that necessary? I believe that this bylaw was put into effect because of the loudly voiced no vote to the city borrowing more money for what I consider superfluous expenditures and I think that the city is attempting to hide the money grab under the guise of “going green”. There has been a steady trend of “ecological changes” by big brand names and the only change I see is the price inflation and a smaller package, and this trend entering into politics. As long as a government body slaps a green tag on whatever law or bylaw they put into place, they can inflate the taxes or add whatever cost they want and the majority of the people will agree because they don’t want to be seen as environmentally irresponsible. Quite frankly if a person crunches the numbers down, if everyone were to end up with an extra bag of garbage each week for a year the resulting total purchase of bag tags would be well over $1 million. I ask where is that money going to go? Is it going to improve our environment? Not likely. Lets also consider the little guy who has to choose between gas for his or her car or paying the electric bill this month. Two dollars doesn’t seem like a lot of money unless you have experienced having to choose between food or a roof over your head. There are also people who don’t have vehicles, kind of hard to transport your recyclables without one. Perhaps the city is planning on creating a recycling pick-up? I also hope they have solutions to the upcoming problem of garbage or recycling piling up in yards because people can’t afford to buy the tags or don’t have the time to deal with it. Reality is, not everyone can make it to the recycle depot during open hours and the recycle bins are usually found full to capacity, so then you have the issue of recycling being left un-binned and flying every which way just like garbage does. I think the City of Dawson Creek needs to prioritize. Trying to force the population into their version of being green before the proper facilities are in place or considering the effects of their actions is very much putting the cart before the horse and it needs to stop. Christina Flowers, Dawson Creek

Editor: These are my reasons for keeping Parkhill Elementary School open: 1) We have fun there. 2) We have lots of friends at the school. 3) There are awesome teachers and staff. 4) For almost everyone it is only a couple blocks away. 5) Our building is still in good shape. 6) We have a great food program so if I am still hungry after I eat my lunch from home then I can go to the OR for more food and no one minds. And it doesn’t cost my Mom any money. 7) We have bannock on Thursdays. 8) Everyone is the same, it doesn’t matter how much money their family has or not. 9) We have lots of after school activities that lots of us take part in. We take part in floor hockey, basketball, chess, soccer, tae kwon do, and some of us take part in reading. We can’t go to other schools because some of our parents have jobs that start early in the morning and they are too busy to drive us down. Some of my friends have parents that don’t drive or don’t own a car. So we have to walk to school. Some of my friends are

Just not the answer

Editor: I am shocked whenever I read someone suggesting that we should meet our growing electricity needs in BC by importing cheap electricity from outside the province instead of developing new sources within the province. Do these people not realize that the cheap electricity BC imports mostly comes from ancient coal-fired generators that spew tonnes of carbon dioxide and other GHGs into the air? Importing dirty coal-fired electricity is not a responsible way to meet BC’s electricity needs, especially when we have so much potential to generate plenty of electricity from clean, renewable sources right here in BC. And for how much longer will cheap coal-fired electricity imports actually be cheap? When you add on the carbon costs and disincentives that are going to be attached to coal-fired electricity in the post-Copenhagen world, coalfired electricity isn’t going to be very cheap at all. So why would anyone in their right mind suggest that we plan BC’s energy future around coal-fired imports instead of locally generated clean energy? Michael McBratney Port Moody, BC

late for school quite often, but still make it only because they don’t have far to walk. Other schools are too far away for us to walk to. If we have to get home quickly we won’t be able to do that from the other schools. I don’t think the other schools have the programs that we have, and even if they did, we would have to walk home and then walk back down which isn’t possible. If you want to close our school down then close us down one piece at a time and build us a new school and let us continue our learning with the same teachers and our same friends. We love our school, please keep it open. I hope you have learned something new about us and our school and our friends. Kristopher Berthold, student at Parkhill Elementary Dawson Creek

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Page 8

December 24 & 31, 2009

Northeast NEWS

MORE FEEDBACK

Desperate to keep Parkhill open Saving a Canadian’s life Editor: I am writing this letter in support of keeping Parkhill Elementary School open. Parkhill is a small school with smaller classes, which means better learning, even for those with learning challenges or special needs. The  smaller classes allow the teachers to focus on the individual needs of the students. The environment within the school is comfortable and safe for the children. It is a real family atmosphere where they are all treated equally as individuals. My son has progressed more in this school than any other. Why would I want that to end? The caring teachers and support staff, combined with the programs that exist at Parkhill are too valuable to us. I want my son’s younger siblings to be able to enjoy them too when it’s time for them to start their education. I want them to be able to attend Parkhill in the future.

We keep hearing about how old the building is and that it must be disposed of. Half of the school building was emptied out over a year ago and we were told that eventually it would be totally closed off. It is the oldest part of the school. Well why not start selling that part of the building or tear it down completely? Then I would like to see the construction begin for a new school for our community while our children continue learning in the other half. This way their education won’t be interrupted. Having our children bussed across our city to another school won’t satisfy me. I won’t be able to stay involved with my son’s education if he is across town and I want to remain involved for all of my children. Please reconsider your proposal to close our school and keep stability in our community and in the lives of all of the students. Desiree Peters, Dawson Creek

Editor: This is truly an unjust world when you can go to prison for life, for sending seeds to another country; but if you send troops, you get a Noble Peace Prize. Do we really need a foreign government stepping in and disciplining one of our citizens, for something as trivial as selling seeds on the Internet? As a nation we should be ashamed of the way we have treated Marc Emery. The man has paid his taxes, given to charity, and helped untold thousands of medical marijuana users. The lack of attention the media is giving this issue disgusts me. The US is trying to take one of our citizens! He broke no Canadian laws! Marc Emery is facing a life sentence in a US facility, hopefully not Guantanamo Bay. Honestly, has handing people over to foreign powers really been working for us lately? Please take the time to contact the Justice Minister of Canada, Rob Nicholson at NichoR@parl.gc.ca and Prime Minister Harper at HarpeS@parl.gc.ca and let them know it is wrong to allow the US to extradite Marc Emery. We must stop this extradition! Who’s next? Brian Johnson, Wingham, ONT

Wishing a Wonderful Christmas to all my clients and Friends. All the Best in the New year.

My Thanks and Best Wishes for a Holiday Season, filled with lots of Wonderful Times Colleen Wilson

REMAX/Action Buyers’ Realtor “COLL” direct 250-264-2664 to view REAL ESTATE

Cell: 250-263-3030 Office: 250-785-5520

www.colleenwilson.ca for all your mls listings

Edith Schmidt

www.edithschmidt.com REMAX ACTION REALTY • 101-9711-100 AVENUE, FORT ST, JOHN

Lending Institutions Current Mortgage Rates Institute

6 mth open

6 mth closed

1 year open

1 year 2 year 3 year 4 year closed closed closed closed

5 year 7 year 10 year closed closed closed

TD Canada Trust

n/a 4.60 6.55

2.75 4.20 4.75 4.24

4.59

6.60 6.70

Invis

n/a 4.55 n/a 2.75 2.90 3.39 3.89

4.29

5.30 5.40

Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce

2.25

4.65 2.25

3.60 3.75 3.38 4.32

4.42

5.32 5.45

Royal Bank

6.45

4.65 6.45

3.40 3.75 4.25 5.14

5.49

6.65 6.80

Centum

n/a n/a 6.55

2.35 2.95 3.50 3.99

3.74

5.25 5.35

Bank of Montreal

8.55

6.85 9.30

7.25 7.40 7.40 7.40

7.44

7.65 7.95

Scotiabank

6.50 4.65 6.55

2.35 3.95 4.50 5.19

4.29

6.60 n/a

First Time Home Buyers • See a mortgage specialist to determine what you can afford • Get pre-approved financing • Make a list of qualities & features you desire in a home • Choose a REALTOR® & view homes in your area • Make an offer • Choose a home inspector • Choose a lawyer or notary • Be aware of all costs involvedlawyer, taxes, inspections, adjust ments,i nsu ra nce - ask your REALTOR® • Make mortgage arrangements • Close the deal & move in • Don't forget moving expenses, utilities, home maintenance, snow removal

What I can do for you:

Note: Rates are provided for information purposes. Rates should be verified by Financial Institutions.

I can help you through the whole process from start to finish. I can provide information on mortgage specialists, home inspections, closing costs & what to expect for costs after you own your home. I am available to arrange viewings of any MLS listing and look forward to helping you find your first home.

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*We do Pre-Approvals, all new Purchases and Refinances at low rates *We newavailable Purchases andmortgage Refinances at low rates *We do canPre-Approvals, offer the Lowestall rates & best for you *We work with many different lenders *We can offer the Lowest rates available & best mortgage for you *We do Pre-Approvals, new Purchases and Refinances at low rates *In most feesall are paid by the lender *We workcases withour many different lenders *We can the Lowest rates available & best mortgageorfor Phone usoffer at: 250-787-7870 or toll free: 1-877-711-7870 onyou line at *In most cases our fees are paid by the lender www.fortstjohnmortgages.com *We work with many different lenders

Phone us at: 250-787-7870 or toll free: 1-877-711-7870 or on line at *In cases our feeswhen are paid by the lender “Ask most about Airmiles rewards www.fortstjohnmortgages.com using Centum Mortgages Services” Phone us at:Pearson 250-787-7870 or toll free: 1-877-711-7870 or on line at www.fortstjohnmortgages.com “Ask about Airmiles rewards when using Centum Pearson Mortgages Services” “Ask about Airmiles rewards when using Centum Pearson Mortgages Services”

Terri Paulovich Sales Associate Remax Action Realty 250-785-5520 office 250-261-1644 direct

Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

City of Fort St. John

Notices & Public Info

Mayor, CounCil and Staff of the City of fort St. John would like to wiSh everyone the beSt for the holiday SeaSon PleaSe note the following iMPortant inforMation: Holiday Hours of operation: • City Hall, Enerplex and Public Works Offices will close at 2:00 pm on December 24, 2009 and will be closed the full day on December 25, December 28, 2009 and January 1, 2010. • The North Peace Leisure Pool will be closed full days on December 25 and 26 and will close at 3:00 pm on December 24 and 6:00 pm on December 31, 2009. GarbaGE PiCk-uP iNfOrmaTiON: • friday, December 25 garbage pickup will be moved to monday, December 28 • friday, January 1 garbage pickup will be moved to monday, January 4 OuTsTaNDiNG Tax & uTiLiTy iNfOrmaTiON: Current (2009) taxes and water and sewer utilities remaining unpaid at closing on December 31, 2009 will be transferred to taxes in arrears on January 1, 2010 and will begin to accrue daily interest. The interest rate is set quarterly by the Provincial Government and will be 5.25% from January 1 to april 30, 2010.

Mayor Bruce Lantz 787.8160 blantz@fortstjohn.ca

Dianne Hunter, City Manager 787.8161 dhunter@fortstjohn.ca

www.fortstjohn.ca

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Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Thank you to all our SPONSORS for helping us reach $200,000 for the 2009 “Be An Angel” Campaign! Lori and Andy Ackerman Alaska Highway Newspaper Arrow Insurance Bella Luna Day Spa Bizzy Body Event Planners BMO Edith Brandl Judy Braun Marie Braun Short Busche Auctions Butcher Block Canadian Tire CCS CIBC Cindy Vincent Art Studio City of Fort St. John CJDC - TV Cliffside Printing Cosmic Grounds Count Floyd Productions Crayon Box Promotions & Design D&G Jewellery Deb’s Flower Hut Dunvegan Gardens Egan’s Restaurant & Pub Energetic Services Energy FM Fasken Martineau DuMoulin Law Firm Flowers by Tamee Foresters Cheechako Branch #1498

Fort Motors Fort St. John Arts’ Council Fort St. John Country Quilters Fort St. John Fire Fighters Fort St. John Huskies Fort St. John Legion Fort St. John Senior Flyers Hamilton Copiers Heather Hannaford’s Pottery Home Hardware Imagine That! Investors Group Isabelle’s Boutique Arnie Isberg JD Fitzgerald Carolyn Krauss Lake Point Golf and Country Club Jim & Margaret Little Marc Joseph & Trends Clothing Mike Kroecher Moose FM Needful Things Kate North North East News North Peace Savings & Credit Union Northern Health Authority

NPSS Drama Department Paddison Brewing Paladin Inspection Panago Peace Clinic of Naturopathic Medicine Peace of the North Photography Kathy Peters Petron Communications Pomeroy Hotel Bill & Laura Prokopow Quality Inn, Northern Grand RBC Redneck Oilfield School District 60 Scotia Bank Silpada Designs - Laureen Whitford Anne Siluch Sobeys Jim & Marion Sodergren Sonlight Gallery Glenda Spofford Super 8 Hotel Systems by Trail TD Bank Ellie Temple The Bear FM Unforgettable Memories Unocal Chris Worton

Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Page 11

on’s greetings... heast news

3.50”

893

confirmation that blication date(s).

Page 12

Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Season’s GGreetings Wishing you and yours a safe and happy 2010

Spectra-Holiday-NN.indd 1

12/14/09 7:26:13 AM

Send us your letters to the editor!

E-mail them to editor@northeastnews.ca, fax them to (250) 787-7090 or drop them off at our Dawson Creek or Fort St. John office.

Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We look forward to your letters to the editor in 2010!

Yuletide Greetings To Our Neighbors & Friends Yuletide Greetings To Our Neighbors & Friends Trends may come and trends may go --

But when it comes to the good folk that we know, Trends may come and trends may go -Goodwill, friendship and a smile, But when it comes to the good folk that we know,

POLICE BRIEFS

Car hopping on the streets of Fort St. John FORT ST. JOHN â&#x20AC;&#x201C; On Dec. 11, a call was received of a male who was caught entering an unlocked vehicle in a residential driveway in the 8500 block of 94 Avenue in Fort St. John. Police followed the suspects footprints in the fresh snow and located two males a short distance away. The males were arrested and transported to the Fort St. John RCMP detachment where they remain in custody pending further investigation. A small amount of stolen property has been recovered. A third male was later arrested and subsequently released. All three males are beleived to be responsible for entering multiple vehicles in the Southeast corner of the city. The Fort St. John RCMP are requesting that anyone whose vehicle has been entered or has discovered anything stolen to please contact the police at (250) 787-8140. If you wish to remain anonymous please call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or via the web at www.crimestoppersfsj.ca. They are open 24/7. You do not have to give your name, address, or your telephone number. You do not have to testify in Court. A cash reward of up to $2000 will be paid for any information which leads to an arrest and charge.

Always seem to be in style! Goodwill, friendship and a smile,

To all our good friends far and near, We wish a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

Always seem to be in style!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. Thank you for your continued support.

Thank you for including us in your travels.

250.787.1136 â&#x20AC;˘10411-100 Street, Fort St. John, BC

Page 13

10040-100 street Fort St. John 250-787-9666

250-787-2600

TRAVEL AGENCY

CUSTOMERS NEIGHBORS ASSOCIATES FRIENDS You make it all worthwhile! With best wishes for a happy holiday season from our entire staff. www.transporthonda.com

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Toll Free: 1-800-663-8311

8708-100 Ave, Fort St. John

Page 14

Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Personal Finance anD investing (PFin050) Free Tuition!

This course, offered by the Career and College Preparation department, is designed to give you the knowledge to get more from your money. Topics include: budget preparation, mortgages, wills, and creating a personal investment portfolio. All ages welcome, and no previous financial knowledge required.

SeaSon’S GreetinGS from our familieS to yourS.

Do you want to be a teacher? Now accepting applications for the AHCOTE program September 2010 intake. Deadline is January 15, 2010. For information contact the AHCOTE office at the Dawson Creek or Fort St. John campuses.

“I heard the bells on Christmas Day their old, familiar carols play, and wild and sweet the words repeat of peace on earth, good will to men!” ~Henry Wadsworth longfellow

starts Feb. 1, 2010 (10 weeks in length) Monday evenings, 7-9 pm Dawson Creek Campus No tuition, but student fees apply. To register or for information, contact Student Services or instructor Wayne Mould, at 250-782-5251.

host Families wanteD Host families are needed in Fort St. John for International students from several countries. Students require three meals per day and a private bedroom. Host families receive $600 per month for room and board. Contact: Tara Young International Education 250-785-6982 Ext: 2028 E-mail: tyoung@nlc.bc.ca

client Days

cosmetology/hairstyling Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays

For more information

1-866-463-6652 nlc.bc.ca

Dawson creek south Peace campus Please call and book your appointment 250-784-7614.

378/09.12.24-j NEN

esthetics and nail care technology Thursdays and Fridays

ATLIN • CHETWYND • DAWSON CREEK • DEASE LAKE • FORT NELSON • FORT ST. JOHN • HUDSON’S HOPE • TUMBLER RIDGE

All the best of the Holiday Season from the Management and Staff of Quality Inn / Northern Grand

Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Page 15

NDIT announces funding for projects in Dawson Creek area

By Matthew Bains DAWSON CREEK – The Northern Development Initiative Trust has announced it will help support three projects in Dawson Creek. It was announced on Dec. 15 that NDIT would support Greensmart Manufacturing Ltd. in hiring 53 new workers by rebating up to $10,000 per worker through its Capital Investment and Training Rebate Program. NDIT chair Evan Saugstad joined his fellow board members, local politicians from all levels of government, as well as the owners and current staff at the manufacturing facility, located on Highway 2 between Dawson Creek and Pouce Coupe. “I think going forward, this is exactly what NDIT was designed for, to increase the economics of northern British Columbia through loans, grants, or whatever, so this is exactly

From Our Entire Staff This Holiday Season

the fit here,” said Saugstad. “They’re expanding, growing their workforce, and providing more opportunities.” He said the program is open to any business that applies and meets the criteria, and there is due diligence to make sure people are being hired and trained before any money is given out. He said the jobs created at Greensmart will be new jobs and will help ease some of the job loss in other sectors of the local economy. “What this does is helps smooth out the ebb and flow of strictly a resource-based economy,” he said. “We’ve seen it busy here while there’s been a slowdown in the economy.” It was announced back in May that NDIT would support an initial expansion through the same rebate program for the creation of 83 full-time positions, and the additional expansion brings the number of new jobs created through the program to 136. The program will also provide Greensmart with rebates to improve manufacturing capacity and purchase new equipment. CEO Alex Wik explained his company’s continued expansion has been driven by a single contract it has to build 202, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certified, pre-manufactured classrooms for schools in Edmonton and Calgary. “These modulars attach to various on-site buildings – gymnasiums, et cetera – and they act as permanent classrooms on those schools,” said Wik, adding they can have a lifespan of up to 50 years. He said it’s about a $30 million project, with about a third of that going towards paying salaries. He said in total this year,

Yuletide Greetings to our Neighbors and Friends With warm wishes and gratitude for your continued patronage. INDEPENDENT PLUMBING & HEATING

10020 93 Avenue, Fort St. John, BC • (250) 785-6679

Greensmart has spent $4.5 million in wages, with 90 per cent paid to workers in Dawson Creek, and spent over $1 million in capital equipment purchases. They currently have a staff of around 200, and Wik said they are producing an average of one modular unit per day. With the increased workforce, the company believes it could produce 600 units annually. Wik said they continue to pursue other contracts with local developers, other schools and with BC Housing. “We still have a tough job to keep the plant busy, there’s no question about that.” He said the NDIT funding will help them focus and improve their training, and with the majority of their workforce being young adults, it will result in highly skilled workers that can be employed in other sectors. “These young men and women leave here with pretty good skill sets,” he said. “They leave here as Gyprock specialists, flooring specialists, siding specialists, roofing specialists; we have many programs for electricians and for plumbers and apprenticeship programs we run. These people really benefit in the long run.” The NDIT announced on Dec. 11 it would be providing the Dawson Creek Golf and Country Club with a $30,000 grant through its Community Halls and Recreation Facilities program towards renovations to the kitchen, deck, banquet room and washrooms, with an additional $30,000 coming from the DC Athletic Society. Paul De Costa, chair of the Clubhouse Committee, said there’s been increased interest from the public in using the clubhouse for parties and functions, especially now that the Legion and Elks Halls are no longer open. “We had a wedding there last year, which was a hit,” he said. “One of our executive members was married on the 18th green. So the clubhouse is turning into a multifunctional place.” He said their goal would be to turn the clubhouse into an all-seasons facility and the expansion would also allow them to expand their hours for the kitchen and catering staff, creating employment opportunities, in addition to short-term construction jobs. De Costa said they are also looking for opportunities to attract more tourists to the clubhouse. He said some of the initial renovations will start right away, and the project is expected to be completed at the end of April.

May all your hopes and dreams come true, that’s our holiday wish to you! With best wishes and gratitude from all of us. Best of the season from the management and staff of J. D. Fitzgeralds

JD Fitzgerald’s open daily at 11:00 am

Page 16

December 24 & 31, 2009

AGRICULTURE

Northeast NEWS

Funding secured to build regional livestock auction mart

By Matthew Bains NORTHEAST – The Northern Development Initiative Trust and the Government of Canada have partnered to help fund a project that will see an important facility to the livestock sector in the Northeast rebuilt in Dawson Creek.

It was announced on Dec. 16 that the Dawson Creek Exhibition Association would receive $100,000 through the federal Community Adjustment Fund (CAF), and a $507,800 loan through NDIT’s Economic Diversification Infrastructure program, to rebuild a regional auction mart that was destroyed in a fire in 2004. Connie Patterson, president of the Exhibition Association, said it’s been a 13-month process to secure the funding needed for the project, which will cost just over $1 million total. She said the cement foundation will be laid right away, and they hope to have the building erected by the end of January. As part of the funding criteria, most of the project would have to be finished by the end of March. Patterson said the new facility will house not only the auction market, but also

On behalf of the staff of BV Land and Northern Rockies Environmental Services, we’d like to wish everyone a warm and happy Christmas, and may 2010 shine upon all of us with happiness and prosperity.

9807 100th Ave, Fort St. John • 250-785-6340

the offices of the Exhibition Association, the South Peace Feeder and Bred Heifer Co-op, and Vold Jones Vold Auction Co. Ltd. The auction market is currently housed in a barn owned by the City of Dawson Creek, and that building will still be used as an overflow for sales and for functions at the Lakota Agriplex. She said having a local market saves producers from losing money due to shrinkage – weight loss in animals caused by the stress of transportation – and saves them money in fuel costs. She said that makes a big difference in the bottom line of ranchers coming from as far as Fort Nelson, adding that producers in the Northeast can also take advantage of the Alberta feed market. Patterson said ranchers traditionally ship a large herd once a year, and once they’ve made their sales they’ll spend that money on consumer purchases. She said having a local market means their money is staying in the region and the local economy rather than being spent in Alberta. “Now they can sell their cattle here, and they take that cheque back to Fort St. John, Fort Nelson, Chetwynd and Tumbler Ridge, and they’ll go spend their money in their own area,” she said. She said the market saw more than 40,000 head of cattle this year, with 20 per cent coming from Alberta, which represents over $18 million generated in the local economy. Patterson said a total of 10 firms will be hired to complete the construction over the winter. She added the South Peace Economic Development Commission (SPEDC) is providing an additional $30,000 for the project. Story continued on Page 25

Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Page 17

Home energy saving tips from Get Dawson Creek Green

Homes work as a system and although fogged up windows may just seem to be a nuisance, they might also mean that your home system needs some attention. If your windows are older, or single pane, you may want to consider replacing them with more energy efficient, sealed windows. If condensation occurs between sealed panes, the seal is broken. Broken seals are not repairable and the window will need to be replaced. Condensation is generally an indication of high humidity in your home. Cooking, bathing, long showers, and drying clothes can all increase humidity. Ways to control the humidity in your home: • Make sure stove fans, bathroom fans, and clothes dryers vent outside • Avoid hanging clothes to dry inside your home • Ensure that your furnace has an outside air intake If you have a higher efficiency furnace, make sure a fresh air intake was installed The colder it is outside, the drier you may need to

keep the inside air your home. The Northeast News will be running frequent colGet Dawson Creek Green is a community initiative umns from Get Dawson Creek Green on how to go offering free energy efficiency assessments for homes green with topics such as energy efficiency, creating or businesses in Dawson Creek. If your home or busi- a paperless office, gardening and composting, and alness is located within Dawson Creek you are eligible to ternate energy technologies (solar, wind, geothermal receive a free energy efficiency assessment and a per- etc.) Though the program is in Dawson Creek, the inisonalized strategy sheet on all the ways you can save tiatives can be put in place anywhere. energy and money in your home or business. Just contact Get Dawson Another year is quickly coming to a close Creek Green at (250) 7825005, info@getusgreen. and our thoughts turn to the celebration of org, or visit the website at the Christmas Season. We do have much www.getusgreen.org Get Dawson Creek to celebrate in this, the best country in the Green is funded in whole world. or in part by the CanadaBC Labour Market Development Agreement. On behalf of myself, Vicki and our family,

we would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and all the best in the New Year. Blair Lekstrom, MLA Peace River South Minister of Energy, Mines & Petroleum Resources

Thinking Of You During this Holiday Season Merry Christmas And The Best Of The Holiday Season To Everyone In The Peace River North Area

Pat Pimm MLA

PEACE RIVER NORTH

As another year comes to a close, we recall the many kind people we’ve had the privilege to serve this year and we wish you all a memorable and special Holiday Season.

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December 24 & 31, 2009

Northeast NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS

Northeast NEWS

ANNOUNCEMENT

FSJ FARMERS MARKET Open every Saturday Starting May 2

9am-4pm in the Arena lobby. A wide assortment of local products. Call - Judy 787-5448 Justina 789-9172 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of David Sandberg. Please call collect Courtney MacIntyre (613)-747-7800 ext 2586

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Sandwich Artist Wantedable to work flexible hours, weekends and holidays. Take orders, making sandwiches, receive shipments, stock up, general cleaning, also job related paperwork with computers. Full time $11.72 Fax to 1-250-7190033.

Cal Gas now hiring B Ticket Gas Fitter. Propane experience & Class 3 w/air required. Please provide drivers abstract & resume. Call Steven Stanway 250261-0914 or email estanway@calgasinc.com

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Mission...

Quality Employees serving

Quality Customers with

Quality Solutions. RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE: • Develop annual objectives. Christian Life School, a fully accredited Independent School operating in Fort St John since 1981, requires a part-time (0.6 FTE) teacher to teach French as a Second Language from Grades 1 - 12 (position may be split into Grades 1-6 and 7-12). The position(s) is from Feb 1 to June 30, 2010. Teacher certification is required but we can assist experienced people obtain special certification.

• Ensures adequately trained staff is available at all times. • Ensure all safety polices and codes are followed.

Branch Manager

Fort St. John, BC Ref : 411 Fx: 780.989.1304 Email: careers@catrents.ca

• Works with sales representatives in the field to develop maximum selling effort. • Works closely with other company managers and branches.

The Cat Rental Store® is an equal opportunity employer.

For more information on the position call the school at (250) 785-1437 or email dirwin@ christianlifeschool.ca. The school website is www.christianlifeschool.ca Don Irwin M. Sc.

South Peace Community Resources Society

10110 – 13th Street, P.O. Box 713, Dawson Creek, BC, V1G 4H7, Phone: (250) 782-9174

Resource/Education Worker – Temporary (Maternity Leave) Child Care Resource & Referral Program – Dawson Creek Job 1515 Closing Date: Submit Resumes to:

classifieds work!

Resource /Education Worker – Dawson Creek 28 hours per week December 31, 2009 Lori Brooks, Human Resource Coordinator P.O. Box 713 (10110-13th Street) Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4H7 Fax: (250) 782 4167 E-mail: lbrooks@spcrs.ca • Please include Competition Job-01515 with resume • Only short-listed applicants will be contacted • This position is open to female & male applicants • This position requires union membership

For more information please visit our Career Opportunity section at www.spcrs.ca. We look forward to hearing from you!

Page 19

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES South Peace Community Resources Society

10110 – 13th Street, P.O. Box 713, Dawson Creek, BC, V1G 4H7, Phone: (250) 782-9174

Resource/Education Worker – Temporary (Maternity Leave)

Child Care Resource & Referral Facilitator – Dawson Creek

Job 1514 Closing Date: Submit Resumes to:

PETS CKC registered Alaska Malamute Pups 4 males vaccinated - dewormed & micro-chipped $1100.00 Each 250-786-5826 WWW. HOWLINGHILLSSLEDDOGS.COM

December 24 & 31, 2009

Child Care Resource & Referral Facilitator – (Temporary) 30 Hours per week December 31, 2009 Lori Brooks, Human Resource Coordinator P.O. Box 713 (10110-13th Street) Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4H7 Fax: (250) 782 4167 E-mail: lbrooks@spcrs.ca • Please include Competition Job-01514 with resume • Only short-listed applicants will be contacted • This position is open to female & male applicants • This position requires union membership

For more information please visit our Career Opportunity section at www.spcrs.ca. We look forward to hearing from you!

Driver Wanted

Full time position in Dawson Creek available for mature, reliable individual. Requirements: • Valid Class 5 drivers license • Criminal record check • Physically fit (some heavy lifting involved) • Minimum age of 19 $16/hr to start, with more for proven reliability Benefit package also included. Send resumes to dcdriverjob@gmail.com

Help Wanted

Need Christmas Cash? Cash Factory Loans offers loans up to $10,000 using almost any vehicle or $800.00 Payday Loan using employment, CTB, EI or pension! No hidden fees, caps Like the Other Guys! 10243 100th Street just past Bank of Montreal or Call 250-787-8811

Mastaro Sushi Restaurant Cuisine & Sushi- Requires 2 Japanese cooks, Over 3 Years experience, Possible to cook most Japanese Cuisine and SushI, Manage Kitchen, Create New Menu's, Training, Speak Korean and Japanese an asset, Start $3000.00 Month, Provide housing, 40 hours a week /Full time, 2 Weeks paid vacation, Email resume to: mastarojohn@gmail.com

Small construction company requires secretary/bookkeeper must have experience with Simply Accounting, Excel and all aspects of Microsoft Office. Duties include A/P, A/R, Payroll, Account Reconciliations ,Administrative duties. must be able to work with or without supervision. Mon-Wed 8 am - 4 pm. Excellent incentives and benefits package. please fax resume with wage expectation to 250-781-3673 Only those accepted for an interview will be contacted.

Looking for Work Experienced Mature Reliable Cleaner. Available for Home or Office. Excellent References. Call 250-789-3732 Stay at home Mom willing to babysit Mon-Fri F/T,meals and snacks included 250782-3126 Dawson Creek

CONSTRUCTION / HOME RENO

Page 20

CLASSIFIEDS

December 24 & 31, 2009

CALL

CONSTRUCTION / HOME RENO

Northeast NEWS

CAREER TRAINING

250-7877030 TO PLACE YOUR AD IN THE BEST READ REGIONAL CAREER TRAINING

Courses Available Winter 2010 Semester (January 4 to April 23) COURSE

INSTRUCTOR

DAY

TIME

FORMAT

Anthropology 407: Topics in BC Ethnography

S. Ronaasen Mike Cuthbertson

Mon.

2:00 – 5:00 pm (MST)

Audio-conference from Terrace

Wed.

1:00 – 4:00 pm (MST)

Video-conference from Prince George

Commerce 411: Advanced Management Accounting Commerce 414: Advanced Financial Accounting

Mike Cuthbertson

Tues.

6:00 – 9:00 pm (MST)

Video-conference from Prince George

English 300: Theory

Marian Scholtmeijer Marian Scholtmeijer Greg Lainsbury

Tues.

7:00 – 10:00 pm (MST)

Teleconference from Terrace

Thurs.

7:00 – 10:00 pm (MST)

Teleconference from Terrace

Thurs.

9:30 am – 12:30 pm (MST)

Video-conferenced from Fort St. John

Orland Wilkerson Orland Wilkerson

Tues. Thurs Wed. Thurs.

10:00 – 11:30 am (MST)

Face-to-face in Fort St. John Video-conference from Fort St. John

B. Guernsey Eva St. Jean S. Lautensach

Wed.

4:30 – 7:30 pm 7:30 – 10:30 pm (MST) 6:00 – 9:00 pm (MST)

Audio-conference from Terrace

Mon.

5:30 – 8:30 pm (MST)

Video-confernce From Fort St. John

Tues.

3:30 – 6:30 pm (MST)

Audio-conference from Terrace

English 383: Romantic Literature English 385: Modern & Contemporary Literature in the U.S. ENPL 104: Introduction to Planning ENPL 305: Environmental Impact Assessment Geography 301: Cultural Geography History 303: British Columbia History 456: Topics in Culture Encounters

Note: Course delivery is subject to change and sufficient enrollment. For further information contact: UNBC – Peace River Liard Regional Office Box 1000, 9820 120th Avenue

Fort St. John, BC V1J 6K1 Telephone: (250) 787-6220 Toll Free: 1-800-935-2270 Fax: (250) 785-9665 Email: prl-info@unbc.ca

Please check our website at www.unbc.ca for more information.

Again, we are in the winter season and experiencing the challenges of the ever changing winter road conditions. Taylor Professional Driving is now offering a Winter Hazard Avoidance program to help drivers understand the challenges on ice and snow and to learn the driving techniques necessary for safe and crash free driving. This program is designed by the BC Safety Council for all classes of drivers. Even the best of drivers have a tendency to overestimate their driving abilities. Be prepared and keep yourself and your family safe. Pre-Register today, space is limited. Call for details (250)564-7624.

Northeast NEWS

CLASSIFIEDS

MEDICAL SERVICES

December 24 & 31, 2009

RENTALS

Page 21

For Sale Taylor Lot - 50x130 Lot. Prepaidwater & sewer at lot line. $53,000.00. Move or build your modular home. Info. Call 604-327-9597 or email: pginn@shaw.ca

Real Estate

Century Villa Townhouse Dawson Creek Newly Renovated 2 & 3 Bedroom Units Available

Home for Sale in Chetwynd, BC 1100 sq ft, 4 bedrooms, 2-5 baths, beautiful hardwood, new stainless steel appliances, front loading W/D, new furnace, new hot water heater, fenced yard, large deck, covered carport, very clean, non smoking home. Asking $265,000 250-788-9175 day 250401-3068 evenings

Caretaker Contact Number 250-784-0065

250-7877030

CALL

TO PLACE YOUR AD IN THE BEST READ REGIONAL

SERVICES

RENTALS

Li-Car

SPACIOUS

Management Group Now taking applications for 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units. Call our office for more information or one of our Professional Site managers! Alpine- Dave 250-793-8350 Bona Vista - Maria 250-785-9825 Sandalwood- Bob 250-262-2011 Hillcrest- Glen 250-261-4216 Driftwood- Bob 250-262-2011 Melsher- Dave 250-793-8350 Maplewood- Bob 250-262-2011 Graham- Dave 250-793-8350 Killarney- Bob 250-262-2011 AmbassadorErin 250-787-8897 Green GlenBob 250-262-2011 Phone 250-785-2662 Email: reception@licar.ca

ROOM For Rent 2 rooms for rent in large quiet house for $350/month. Rent includes utilities and use of kitchen 250-7893551

classifieds work!

14024

Web Design Web Design! Email Marketing! Graphic Design! www.bluecowcreative.ca Dawson Creek 100% Local100% Wind Powered web hosting www.bluecowcreative.ca info@bluecowcreative.ca 250-219-6050

For Rent

Dawson Creek house/ acreage for rent. Cozy 1 Bedroom Propane heat with wood auxiliary Lease $950 +Utilities Call 604-461-6898 or email: dawsoncreekhouse4rent@gmail.com

Mortgage Lenders

Mortgage Money Available. Terms to suit, Private Lenders or Financial Institutions Call Susan 1-877-286-3230

WANT YOUR ITEM SOLD? THEN PLACE IT IN OUR CLASSIFIEDS

Page 22

December 24 & 31, 2009

CLASSIFIEDS

Northeast NEWS

Northeast NEWS Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Page 23

May 21, 2009

Page 25

Community UPCOMING Calendar

May 13 to June 17 December 24 hanging baskets, dictions cut flowers, photography several ed when burglars broke into to their days African in 2008.Hall Comein Fort November 26 to in the theatre world without committing at home the Seniors’ St. John, Clients. Meetsand Thurs 1:30children’s -3:30 at • Are you living a chronic health condition? Univercategories. Look for the flowerAve., show Dawson book in several locations. and hear the testimony onwill how God’s love100 carried the Come Burgens Is there reallywith a Santa Claus? The Lit- aThe show? Dionysus Theatre Company 10908 Street. and have fun so1017-103 Creek. 250-782sity of Victoria Northern Authority to ofONGOING through the ordeal. This Canadian couple from Vernon, BC have eracy Societyand knows thereHealth is! Every yearare pleased warm up Monday nights in January and cializing among friends while taking part 4410. Fort St. John • Alcoholics Anonymous - meets Mon., fer a Healthy withcorporate Chronic Conditions’ in Fort St. forgiveness, andSeries. are returning to continue the missionary we‘Living send Santa to Life attend and February withchosen a Script Reading in new activities for a cost of $2, which • The Fort St. John Women’s Resource motiJohn. free six-session education for program living they Come started to in one, Kenya. wells,lunch. growing food, and houseThis parties, as a fundraiser com-for persons Drop by! Bringwork a friend! twoDrilling includes Tues., Fri., & Sat., 8Society p.m. atis seeking Peace River their volunteer team. helping peopleEducasparks with chronic health conditions willIfbeyou available 9900 helping towhatever support sixfits orphanages. event is at Quality Inn at vated people to join munity literacy programs. loveat #300, or all of100 the sessions, your The Fort Nelson Health Unit. Wed. 8 If p.m. Hospital interest8droption by the officeAll at #201, 10142-100 Ave. (above Avenue. for six Wednesday fromThe 7Script p.m. Reading Series is dressingThe up workshop and beingmeets the centre of atten- evenings schedule. • Alcoholics Anonymous your - Monday Room. meetings are open. Girl Guides Thrift Store) or call 250-787-1121. 6tion, p.m.please to 8:30 contact p.m. To register or for more information, call Terry 28 us: (250) 785-2110 or complimentary toMay all participants with the p.m. Catholic Church Basement (closed • Mile 0 Al-Anon meets 7:30-8:30 pm Youth Relapse mayatbeParkhill held weekly, in Cayer - Cordinator toll free at 1-866-902-3767 or e-mail tcayer@ of Fort St. John is holding their AGM at8 p.m.• A info@fsjliteracy.ca. purchase of a $5• Abbeyfield Dionysus Houses membership. meeting); Wednesday Catholic everyPrevention TuesdayGroup evening Comafternoons Mental Health AddictionStreet, Services, #300 dccnet.com. Space p.m. atinNorthern Lights College. Church EveryoneBasement; welcome. DirecDecember 24 is limited so call today. Series will take7place the Dining Room, Thursday 8thep.m. Cath- at munity Schooland9700-5th Dawson 9900 –8 100 For more information call Chris or Shaun at May 23 will be a free family swin at the Northern Lights torsCollege, and volunteers needed. Memberships will be sold prior to Saturday • There Dawson Creek olic Church Basement; p.m.Ave.Creek. 250-262-5269. • FirstBorek annual Aquatic Peace Region Palaeontology Symposium featur-p.m.the Please come outHospital and support our homeSunday for Kenn Centre in Dawson from 7:30 tomeeting 9 p.m. ($10). For information Cafeteria; 8 p.m. Friend• Relapse Prevention. Mental Health • The Citizensand PatrolAddictions is seeking people who canAve., volunteer at ing the fourth annual Fossil Road Show, speakers, door prizesCynthia and senior’s independent living! For more Creek, sponsored by Mayor and Council contact Livingstone at cliving@ shipinformation Centre call Clara at 1017-103rd Dawleast five hours a month. Perfect782-4410. for those new to town, guided children’s Held at the Tumbler xplornet.com Ridge Public or (250) from 12 p.m. to activities. 3 p.m. For more informacall785-6450. 786-6837. • Cocaine Anonymous - Tuesday 8 p.m. son Creek, Fridays 10those –11 conam. cerned8about who want to makePlease the community a safer Library and(250) Curling Rink. For more information contact (250)31 May 29 tion, call 784-3604. January Catholic Church Basement; Friday p.m.safety, Everyone welcome! call to confirm and play. Call coordinator Connie 250-262242-3466. AccessRelay Awareness Day in Fort St. John. Stay tuned to the place to work, live December 24 • The Olympic •Torch Celebration Hospital Cafeteria. meeting. 4530Northern or RCMP liaison Rick 250-787-8100. May 23 News for more Ceninformation. • Christmas Eve Service will be held at will take place Northeast at the EnCana Events • Alanon - Tuesday 8 p.m. • Cocaine Anonymous meets 7 p.m. • Alcoholics Anonymous - If you you might have a probdanceUnited at Farmington featuring 40! Creek. May 30 the• Country South Peace Church,Hall 1300 104 Highway tre in Dawson Lights College (back door). Mon. to Fri. At think the Nawican Friendship Call for times and places or someone to talk to Dance from 9 p.m. to 1Creek a.m., no minors. Tickets is holding Avenue in Dawson at 8:30 p.m. Ev- $15 each, Juneavail19 and 20• The Fort Nelson Woman of Industry Pouce Coupea golf tourna- lem with drinking.Centre. able at Farmington For more information, Clarisse at the golf course.opporLots of door •prizes, putter to Anonymous be won and 250-785-8866. eryone is welcomeStore. to enjoy a service of call • Think of it ment as a history-making Alcoholics - Friday 8 • Last Monday of the month the CanaFort Nelson dian Cancer Society, Dawson Creek Unit (250) 843-7954. prize if a member brings a p.m. friendOld that becomes member.250-786-0155 lessons and carols. tunity for you an to extra do something big about Library a(closed). • Alcoholics Anonymous - Monday 8 p.m. Catholic Church May 24 Pleaseepic. RSVPRiding to Karenthrough Prouse at kprouse@sd81.bc.ca December 25 cancer, something Chetwynd meets at 7 p.m. at 1000-105 Avenue. New Basement (closedvolunteers meeting); Wednesday • The Forgotten -- Grizzly Players present a mati-PacificMay 30 Residents in House Dawson CreekValley are invited the scenic Northwest in two days. • Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tueswelcome. 8 p.m. Catholic Church Basement; Thursday• 8The p.m.Mile Catholic ChurchGuild Basement; Saturday nee at 3Nawican p.m. in Room 5 of the Centre Community CentreSure, in Tumbler • The Welcome the Baby Showeratand Grandto the Friendship where it sounds like a lot, and it’sWagon meantevents, to day and Friday 8 p.m. at the Public Li0 Quilt meets Tues8 p.m.atFriendship Ridge. parent Showcase be taking place at the5012 Stonebridge Hotel250-788-9658 at 1 8 p.m. Hospital Cafeteria; the Bernier family are planning on pro- be. The conquest of cancer is awill monumenbrary, 46 Street. days andSunday Thursdays 7 p.m. inCentre studio 10 • Cocaine Anonymous - Tuesday 8 p.m. Catholic Church BaseMay 29the to 31 p.m. The Bridal But Showcase 6:30 p.m. viding whole community with a free tal task and won’t be easy. makewill no take place • NAatmeets Wednesday at 8 p.m. at the at KPAC. Call Brenda for more informament; Friday 8 p.m. Cafeteria. • Couple’sbrunch “Love and Romance” at The King’s Valley May 30just for athletes or Airport waiting room. Christmas from 11 a.m.Retreat to 2 p.m. mistake, this event isn’t tionHospital (250) 759-4782/ • Alanon - Tuesday 8 p.m.Dawson NorthernCreek LightsChamber College (back door). Christian Accommodation available. For further informa• The 34 Ride annualtoTrutch Gymkhana is being Ridge held at the Mile All in theCamp. community are welcome. cycling enthusiasts. The Conquer Tumbler • The of ComCoupe merce luncheons are held the first ThurstionDecember or registration 206 Trutch Rodeo Grounds, lots of camping space available and a 30 call (250) 827-3549. Cancer is for anyone who wants to chal• Alcoholics Anonymous -Pouce meeting • Alcoholics - Friday 8 p.m. Library (closed). May 17 to June concession will be on site. Great family all ages ride!! Please • Movie Night28in Tumbler Ridge with lenge themselves for a great cause – even Wed.fun, 8 p.m. 115 Commercial Park (Bap- Anonymous day of each month at Old noon at the Best 250-786-0155 Western. Different guest speaker each • Triathlon clinics are coming rated: to Fort St.people John. Come call Beth at (250) 262-5712 for more Cloudy withTraining a Chance of Meatballs, who haven’t ridden since they were tistinformation. Church). • Computer at the Members Pouce Coupe Seniors Hall every Monout triathlon and get prepared for the12. localAll upcom4 PG,and atlearn the about Community Centre with conyou need June is motivation, a bike, and • Mondays: Bingo - 6 pm doors open, 7 Class month. and Non-members welday andRms. Wednesday fromContact: 9:30 a.m. Lesley to 12:00Pewarchuck p.m. and Low250Iming triathlons. Held on Mayfilm 3, 4,isand are clinics on swimming out ofBe town the Community Oil Men’s Centre cession available. This 98 6minutes. a helmet. The rest• Ladies is history. partdinner of it.in conjunction pm gameswith begin. come. every Thursday from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Open stroke improvement, Golf Tournamentorpresented by OilWives December 30 bike tuning and equipment and Calltriathlon. 1-888-771-BIKE(2453) e-mail bc4&5. Club of FSJ. Cocktails pact exercise class782 4868. to everyone! Carol(or at 250-786-5673 Come hearswim frominlocal triathletes andfrom ask questions about events, at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. at the• Pomeroy Inns Suites. (55+) • Free Tumbler Ridge 6:30 guides@conquercancer.ca. Tuesdays: TRandSeniors Drop-InFor more • Ifinformation you writecall songs would like to Chetwynd training, anything else like. SignONGOING up at the Tickets are $50 and include: entertainment, dessert, wine, p.m. to preparation 8:30 p.m.and Sponsored by you Chilko – Floor dinner, curling, carpet bowling, card & write songs) you can meet other songwritmeetsthe Monday Friday at 8 p.m. North Peace Leisure Pool or contact Becky at (250)787-5780 or John jewellry draw, games and door prizes. Tickets available FlowConstruction. Fort St. board games, coffeeat& cookies.• Alcoholics Commu- Anonymous ers and enjoy craft and of songwriting inata Friendship 250-788-9658 bkeim@fortstjohn.ca ers by Tamee,Society FrontierFort Jewellers. 785-8737 or 1-4thepm. December 31 for more information. • The Canadian Cancer St. Call nityMarlene Centre(250) Room 5 from Small Centre. fun, respectful, and nurturing environment • NA meets Wednesday at 8 p.m. at theCircle! Airport waiting room. Upcoming local Triathlons include: Debbie (250) 787-5100 forofmoredrop-in information. • The Derrick Dance Club of Fort St. John unit meets the atfirst Wednesday fee. at the Songwriters’ Kiwanis Per• Tuesdays Minor ball 5 1100 pm-7 -pm Chetwynd Dawson May 24 a New Years Eve each month, September June 6 to June, at noon at John willCreek be hosting • Wednesdays: TR Seniors (55+) Drop- & Thursdays: forming Arts Centre, 95atAve, DawBallpark & Rec. Centre Diamonds. Fort St.and John June with 7 • RotaryCentre Manor behind Annual Garage 9 a.m. Whist to 12 noon. supper dance cocktails at 6 p.m., the Business Resource the InSale – from Cribbage, & good company. son Creek, 7pm in Studio 7, every second Tumbler Fort Nelson Juneand 28 dance at 9 p.m. until museum. Volunteers 1121-90always Avenue. Household items, tools, toys,welcome! furniture, coffee supper at 7 p.m. welcome. Beginners 7 pm in the Library.Ridge and fourth Tuesday of the month. For more • Alcoholics Anonymous meeting Wed. 8 p.m. 115e-mail: Com28 Citizens Hall at 10908 and donutsPrevention and much more. Donations welcome 2May a.m. 12 in to theJuly Senior • A Youth Relapse Group Small drop-inafter fee.May 4 (no information- www.prsaonline.com Church). • Relapse Group from 6:30may - 8:30be p.m. at weekly, appliances All proceed resident programs and mercial Park (Baptist 100 StreetPrevention with music by- Tuesdays Silver Eagle. held in please). the afternoons at to toward Taylor info@prsaonline.com or call (250) 843- 6or pm(250) doors786-5472. open, 7 pm games begin. of ComMental Addiction DennisMental at (250)262Rain or shine, no early birds, there Air will be no sales There Health will be&130 ticketsServices. sold at Contact $35 each. Healthactivities. and Addiction Services, • Civil Search andbe-Rescue• Mondays: (CASA- Bingo 2345 A program the munity Centre 4&5.Region Songwriters Association. 5269. a.m. For more infor- RA) meetings every second Tuesday Everyone 19 and over is welcome. For in- #300 - 9900 – fore 1009Ave. at the Rms. Peace • Tuesdays: TR Seniors (55+) Drop-In – Floorofcurling, carpet May 23 call Judy at (250) 787-0460 or mation call Chris June formation or 14 Shaun at 250-262- Taylor Fire Hall at 7 p.m. For information • On the fourth Saturday the month, bowling, card & September board games,through coffee &June, cookies. Community • TheatDerrick Club For of Fort St. John be hosting a • Rick Hansen Wheels in Motion walk, wheel, and wheel- or Lucy (250) Dance 785-2867. tickets callwill5269. call Bob at run 250-789-9152 250-787Peace Country 1-4 pm. Small drop-in dance 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. in the Senior Citizens Hall at 10908 chair challenge. -Registration at 12:30, event starts at 1 p.m. in Cen- Centre Room 5 from Lucy from at (250) 785-2867. • Alcoholics Anonymous If you think 5802. Roots Group meets atfee. 1:30 p.m. in the • Wednesdays: TR Seniors (55+) Drop-Inin– Cribbage, Whist & 100January Street. Music Park. For information, LoriHighway Slater at RRA 7 to by 10Night Sounds. Members $10, non youmembers might havetennial a problem with drinking,contact• event The leader Alaska (Recre- small Roots building NAR park. Getgood company. welcome! 7 pm tree in theresearch, Library. Small $12. Everyone 19 andinstructor over is welcome. For information calltoLucy 787-1912 • Become a ski by attending come an AA(250) meeting. Call or forslaterl@shaw.ca times and ation Aircraft Association) meets every Beginners ting started on family need fee. at help? Come learn and share experiences at or Judy at (250) 787-0460. Julyto12talk to (250) 785- third Thursday at the Taylor drop-in a (250) Level785-2867 1 Ski Instructor’s course at Bear places or someone Fire Hall Taylor at with other amateur genealogists. EveryMay 23 Ski Hill. The cost is $260 and 8866. • North Peace Horticultural Society Garden call Richard Mountain 7:30plans p.m.their Forannual information • Civil Air Search Rescue (CASARA) every sec• The of Sam Pearceonline Show at is scheduled Stone- Tour. Bring yourNorth familyPeace and tour 250-782-2421 a variety of Fortor St.Heath John garseats areMagic limited. Register snow- at •the Volunteers wanted at the at 250-785-4758. oneand welcome. For moremeetings information call Taylor(250) Fire Hall at 7 p.m.orFor information call bridge Hotel with the showTracy to benefit the Fort782St. JohnCultural Firefighters. dens. probc.com or contact at (250) Centre. Learn new skills, meet • New Totem Archery is ond nowTuesday at theat the Marge 782-8424 Lyle (250) 782August 1 Ushers and vol- Taylor Community Hall Tuesdays Bob at 250-789-9152 or 250-787-5802. Mayfor 25more to May 29 2856 information. new people, get involved. and 2804. The theatre Marilyn Leffler and Show ‘n Shine sup-Contact • New Totem Archery is now at the Taylor •January Do you think govern11 you’ve been treated unfairly by a B.C. unteers required •for events.Memorial Call Ride Thursdays from 6-9 in p.m. newtoIf your non-profit groupCommunity has eventsHall or port of the Canadian Cancer Societytemarchery.com. BC and Yukon Region. Regis- Tuesdays and Thursdays 6-9 p.m. Contact send newtotemment ministry or public agency? The B.C. Ombudsman may be • Experience theatre without having to (250) 785-1992. meetings from you wish published, them tration begins Julyjoin 1 forus thisfrom all day event at Casey’s Pub in Fort St. archery.com. by fax to (250) 787-7090 or email to: ediable to help. Ombudsman’s be in audition orThe rehearse! Lookingstaff forwill a fun ac-the following • Calling all Seniors: Come Dawson Creek John. ‘n Shine for seven motorcycle andHealth • The RRA (Recreation Aircraft Association) communities the dates below, andaare available by aptivity for theon New Year?listed Want to ‘dip toe’ 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. onShow Mondays andawards Thurs• Craft groupcategories for Mental andAlaska Ad- Highway tor@northeastnews.ca. pointment to discuss your problem or complaint. Call 1-800-567- lots of door prizes. Event includes a ride to the viewpoint on the meets every third Thursday at the Taylor Fire Hall at 7:30 p.m. 3247 to book an appointment or see www.ombudsman.bc.ca for Hudson’s Hope Road. Everyone welcome to this fundraising event For information call Richard at 250-782-2421 or Heath at 250to fight cancer. 785-4758. more info. Between theMay sounds of laughter, theAugust music of the 21 to 23 Dawson Creek Fort Nelson 25 • The North Peace Horticultural Society presents their 16th an• The Dawson Creek Chamber of Commerce luncheons are Fort St. John May 26 season and the joy of family, may nual you have a Flower Show and Exhibition at the North Peace Cultural Cen- held the first Thursday of each month at noon at the Best Western. Dawson Creek May 27 tre. Thecoming event will be open Mackenzie May 28 moment to quietly reflect on the year to toa the public on Aug. 22 from 3 p.m. to Different guest speaker each month. Members and Non-members 7 p.m. and on Aug. 23 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Awards presenta- welcome. Contact: Lesley Pewarchuck 250-782 4868. Chetwynd May 29 - and may you have the grace tionsto willremember take place at 4 p.m. Refreshments will be available by If your non-profit group has events or meeting you wish pubMay close 27 • John and Eloise Bergen, missionaries working with ‘Hope for donations on both Saturday and Sunday while the show is open. lished, send them by fax to (250) 787-7090 or via email to: editheinmoments that mattered and the people cared. Categories includewho arrangements, art, houseplants, patio plants, tor@northeastnews.ca. the Nations’ Kenya were brutally attacked and severly wound-

To all of our members, we send our wishes for a happy and safe holiday season. “Focused on Family Eyecare” Dr. J. Grant Timmins Dr. John E. Gentles Dr. Todd J. Lang Eye Examinations, Optical Dispensing, Contact Lenses, Low Vision Care, Ocular & Refractive Surgery Co-management, CSA Safety Eyewear

Fort St. John

Enriching Dawson Creek Your Life 900-102nd Ave. Suite 102 9808-101st Ave. Phone: 785-2020

Phone: 782-1121

Fort Nelson #19 Landmark Plaza Phone: 774-2020

Page 24

December 24 & 31, 2009

Northeast NEWS

Fort St. John 100 years ago

Frank Beatton lived at the Hudson’s Bay Post on the north shore of the Peace River and kept entries of daily life in early Fort St. John. The recordings of this early Hudson’s Bay Company Factor have been digitized by The Cemetery Seekers and brought home to Fort St. John. This project was funded by the North Peace Savings and Credit Union. Over 4,000 images were photographed at the provincial archives in October 2008. Excerpts from December 1909 Thursday December 16 Same as before. Finished hauling the wood that was cut. Samson returned having killed a moose, but did not find the horses. Friday December 17 Self and Edward off looking for horses but did not find them. Fields in office. William Nakawene and Assyunty arrived. Continues fine weather. Saturday December 18 Edward and Fields hauling hay. Self at wood. Sunday December 19 Burbanks and a few boys around from Attachie’s Camp and report starvation and wolfs numerous having killed two of Charlie’s horses. Monday December 20 Self busy with Indians. Mr. Fields and Edward hauling hay. The Indians left for their camp after getting their supplies. Samson and Joseph brought in their moose this evening. Mr. Jamieson, the BC Constable, arrived from Dunvegan along with William Gardner and Dog Team. They brought up a small mail. Continues fine weather. Tuesday December 21 Busy as usual. Wednesday December 22 Edward and Fields hauling cord wood. Frank Ander-

son and Wm. Gardner left this morning for LS Lake. Cheyne arrived from Cash Creek. Thursday December 23 Boys hauling firewood. Very fine weather in afternoon. Edward hauling wood for Mr. Campbell. Self making a trail. Friday December 24 Edward as yesterday. Wrought half day for Mr. Campbell at wood. Saturday December 25 A general holiday. Self went out for a drive with the dogs. Beautiful weather. Monday December 26 Self started up to Wusscully’s Camp and found the Indians starving with absolutely nothing to eat. Edward went after horses. Tuesday December 28 Edward off again after horses and brought in the two cut horses. Continues fine weather. Wednesday December 29 Self sharpening up saws all day. Edward and Mr. Fields put the Geldings down on the Pine River flat. Fine weather. Thursday December 30 Busy in store. Edward after horses. Alaxie Cardinal arrived from Puskupie Prairie. Wablice and Charlie arrived from Moberly Lake. Thomas also arrived from below. A fine day. Friday December 31 Self and Mr. Fields busy in store all day. Edward at wood. A change in weather turned cold. Attachie arrive. So endith the Year of our Lord 1909. Watch for the 1910 Beatton Journals in the Northeast News in 2010. The Beatton Journals and other documents can be viewed digitally at the North Peace Museum. Inquiries: (250) 787-0430.

Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

FUNDING SECURED CONTINUED

Page 25

Matthew Bains photo

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Dawson Creek Exhibition Association president Connie Patterson was joined by Northern Development Initiative Trust board chair Evan Saugstad (second left), Prince George-Peace River MP Jay Hill and Peace River South MLA Blair Lekstrom to announce on Dec. 16 that funding had been secured to rebuild a regional livestock auction market in Dawson Creek. Evan Saugstad, chair of NDIT, said the loan is zero-interest and is repayable over 10 years. The NDIT was responsible for distributing CAF money earlier this year, and Saugstad said one of the projects receiving the funding wasn’t able to meet the criteria, so the board reviewed the auction mart project and decided to reallocate the $100,000 grant. Prince George-Peace River MP Jay Hill attended the announcement, and said he believes it was an appropriate allocation of the funding, given that the CAF was intended to help smaller, rural communities weather the global economic recession. He said his government is continuing to look for opportunities to open up new markets for Canadian agricultural products, and pointed to the recent announcement that Hong Kong would be opening up to beef imports as an example of that. Dawson Creek Mayor Mike Bernier, who also sits on the SPEDC, said having the only auction market in the Northeast will undoubtedly generate more money and more jobs for the city and the entire region. “It’s not just the auction mart that we’re investing in, it’s in the community and in the region, because you also have those economic spinoffs,” said Bernier. “Those people who serve the agricultural industry are now, hopefully, going to do that much better.”

Page 26

Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Mayor and family to serve free meals on Christmas Day By Matthew Bains DAWSON CREEK – Dawson Creek Mayor Mike Bernier and his family will be hosting a free brunch for the community at the Nawican Friendship Centre on Christmas Day. They are inviting anyone who would like to join them for some hot food and good company at the Nawican, located on 13 Street and 102 Avenue, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. They’ll be serving sausages, pancakes, eggs, coffee, juice and more, all at no charge. The mayor said his wife, Valerie, and their three children came up with the idea while discussing Christmas plans and trying to find someway to give back to the community. He said he was a little surprised that his

son and two daughters even agreed to forgo presents this year so they could host the brunch instead. “Christmas is about giving and not receiving, and my favourite part about Christmas is the dinner and breakfast, so I wanted to share that with the community,” said his 13 year-old daughter, Michaela, on how the idea came about. Bernier said they thought the Nawican would be an appropriate place for the brunch because of its downtown location, its kitchen, and its reputation for helping those in need. He said the staff there were excited by the idea, and their head chef Shari Rougeau volunteered to help run the kitchen. He said they are prepared to serve as many people as Matthew Bains photo

Holiday Greetings Holiday Greetings from all of us to Each and Everyone of you! Thank you to our Customers, Friends, & Neighbors

Kayla Lekstrom (right) presented a cheque for $2,500 on behalf of Lake View Credit Union to Dawson Creek Housing Response Network member Jane Harper on Dec. 17, which will help support an emergency warming shelter in the community. Later that day, the HRN was presented with a $3,500 cheque from EnCana Corp. Both companies made significant contributions towards the temporary shelter last winter as well.

HOPE,CONTENTMENT HOPE,CONTENTMENT and GOOD HEAL HEALTH, and GOOD TH, HARMONY,GOODWILL HARMONY,GOODWILL andWEAL WEALTH and TH

MayMay all your hopes dreams come true, all your hopesand and dreams come true, that’ s our holiday for you! that’ s our holiday wish wish for you! WithWith bestbest wishes and from of us. wishes andgratitude gratitude from all all of us.

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Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

Page 27

Page 28

Northeast NEWS

December 24 & 31, 2009

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