December 12, 2012

Gift Guide Toys

www.gvsbc.ca 1215 Main St., Smithers • 250 847-4499

Gyro Indoor Nano Spy Copter Video & picture Reg $69.99

5999

$

Gyro Unbreakable Helicopter Holds up to 200 pounds of force.

Reg $99.99

7499

$

Gyro Eclipse Large Outdoor Helicopter

Gyro Stinger Mini Helicopter

Reg $149.99

Reg $59.99

9999

$

39

$

99

Stocking Stuffers

Xtreme Touch screen stylus and ball point pen

Touch Pen

Perfect for stocking stuffers

for heat sensitive touch screens.

Perfect for Android tablets, cell phones, ipad or iphone. (in all colours)

Reg $9.99

Reg $14.99

$999

$499

Iphone 4 & 5 Accessories

$999

Starting at Perfect for stocking stuffers

Zagg screen protectors

Gummi Fones Digital Stereo Headphones Reg $12.99

$799

Perfect for stocking stuffers

for ipad, iphone 4/4s, iphone 5, Samsung Galaxy and 3DS.

4GB Micro SD card with adapter

Class 4. Perfect for stocking stuffers Reg $12.99

$799

Cameras

Olympus Tough 6020

Casio EX-S8 Camera

5.0 Optical zoom, 14 mega pixel, water proof, up to 16 ft Reg $279.99

includes lithium ion rechargeable battery, 2gb memory card and case (800 photos) Reg $149.99

$17999

$6925

Computer Hardware & Accessories

Lethal Stereo Headphones

Lethal Earsubs

Material cord, swivel ear cups, soft and comfortable ear cushions for perfect seal and sound, adjustable head band for optimal fit.

Microphone with answer and end call, soft and comfortable earpiece that eliminates noise.

Reg $39.99

$2999

Reg $59.99

$4999

Original Audio Epishock

The latest product from the makers of the famous Rock-It Portable Vibration Speaker. Epishock will turn any surface into a speaker! Turn your tables, walls, bookcases, decks, and more into a speaker and share your music.

Cyber Power Battery Backup CP350SLG

$7999

$49

99

Monster Power Surge Protector

Reg $69.99

Reg. $59.99

$4999

$3999

Enzatec Speakers

Bushnell neo+ GPS Rangefinder

Preloaded courses, no members fee, ready to play, shot distance calculator.

$2499

Games & Accessories

Logitech H110 Headset

Analog connection, Stereo sound, noise-cancelling mic can be worn on either side.

Multi DPI-Switch Gaming Mouse

Reg $49.99

E-Blue Black, White or Green 4 way DPI switch, piano paint surface shell, comfortable grip feeling, multimedia buttons.

Reg $39.99

29

$

99

Turtle Beach Gaming Headsets Ranging from

7999 - $29999

$

2999

$

Sound & Light

Bushnell Telescopes Range from

$11999 - $64999

3M Pocket Projector Reg $49.99

$29999

Sirius Boom Box Reg $129.99

$7999

Wireless Microphone (ATW-802) Reg $229.99

$19999 Sirius Satellite Radio Starmate 8

Commercial free Music, Sports, Talk, and Comedy. Multi-Colour Display, Sirius Replay (Pause, rewind, and replay live radio), Parental control, 10 Channel Presets. Also runs on XM Radio.

$129

99

SoundLogic Itower Speaker

with charging station 4 stereo speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, auxiliary jack and cable, USB port to charge ipad, iphone or any smart phone.

Reg $199.99

$18999

Come in and browse our growing selection of acoustic & electric guitars, tuners, picks, strings, instrument cords & more!

Guitars Beaver Creek Ukulele

(also in blue & red)

$59

99

Beaver Creek Mandolin

$18599 Beaver Creek Acoustic Guitar (Pink, black, classic & blue)

$17999

Beaver Creek Banjo

$23999

Other Gift Ideas

Guitar Accessories

Strukture Guitar Stand

Delta DG10, DG15 and DG30 Amps

$24

Lenovo 1066 XB2

Recertified - 15 2.5 GHZ, 6GB DDR3 RAM, 500GB Hard Drive, HDMI Port, Windows 7, 15.6” LED LCD Screen.

Reg $529.99

$429

99

XL Nickel Wound, Classical Ranging from

$1099 - $1699 Vtech Cordless Phone

$7999 - $13999

Lap Tops

D’Addario Acoustic Strings

99

With Caller ID (cs6114) Easy to use wall mount, Interference free, back lit keypad and display.

Reg$39.99

$2999

ENJOY THE ULTIMATE HD EXPERIENCE. With Shaw Direct you get access to advanced technology including an interactive On-Screen With Shaw access to advanced including an interactive On-Screen Guide with Direct 14 dayyou lookget ahead, dynamic search,technology and enhanced parental controls. Plus, our Guide with 14 daylet’s lookyou ahead, dynamic and all enhanced parental controls.

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All our HDour HDPVR receiver you record, and rewind all your shows. All our HD receivers are 3D,let’s MPEG-4, 1080ppause compatible and ready for favourite the future. receivers are 3D, MPEG-4, 1080p compatible and ready for the future.

$49.99

**

Net Price Net Price

Asus X53Z

AMD Dual Core Processor, 8GB DDR3 Ram, 750GB Hard Drive, 15.6 LED LCD Screen, DVD Super Multi DL Drive.

Reg $629.99

Advanced HDPVR Sign up for Shaw Advanced HDPVR

Direct an Purchaseand Pricereceive$199.99 Purchase Pricecredit $199.99 Advanced HDPVR Programming -$100630 Programming credit -$100 PPV or VOD Credit -$50 Purchase Price -$50 $199.99 PPV or VOD Credit Installation FREE Installation FREE Programming credit -$100 Net Price $49.99 - $50 NetPPV Priceor VOD Credit$49.99

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$49.99

$52999 Under Water Kinetics Lap Top Case

$179

99

See in-store for details.

See in-store for details.

MULTIPLE AWARD-WINNING MULTIPLE AWARD-WINNING 24/7/365SERVICE 24/7/365SERVICE

Totem Audio Street, Smithers,1276 BC Main Street, Smithers RETAILER ADDRESS LOCATION - PHONE NUMBER 250-847-4722 (250) 847-4499 Open 9 am – 5:30 pm, Monday – Saturday 1215 Main Street, Smithers RETAILER NAME NAME Main RETAILER RETAILER ADDRESS LOCATION1215 -(250) PHONE NUMBER 847-4499

*Available to new residential customers until November 30th, 2012. The $49.99 Advanced HDPVR is based on a $199.99 purchase price, less promotional and Pay Per View (PPV) or Video On Demand (VOD) credits. The Promotional Credit of $100 includes taxes and will appear on the customer’s account in the form of a credit, applied upon activation. The $50 PPV or VOD credit excludes applicable taxes and will appear on the customer’s *Available new residential customers until November 2012. apply.

The $49.99 Advanced is based on asatellite $199.99 price, less promotional and Pay Per View to (PPV) or VideoLocal On Demand (VOD) Improvement credits. The account intothe form of a credit, applied upon activation. 30th, Conditions An included fee ofHDPVR 1% of your monthly TVpurchase charges applies to fund Shaw Direct’s contribution the CRTC’s Programming Promotional Credit of $100 includes taxesextra. and will appear on to thechange customer’s account the form of a credit, applied upon $50 or VOD credit excludes applicable will appear on the customer’s Fund. See SHAWDIRECT.CA/LPIF.Taxes Offer subject without notice.inShaw Direct services are subject toactivation. our terms The of use asPPV occasionally amended.

Channel count taxes variesand by market. account in the form of a credit, applied upon activation. Conditions apply. An included fee of 1% of your monthly satellite TV charges applies to fund Shaw Direct’s contribution to the CRTC’s Local Programming Improvement Fund. See SHAWDIRECT.CA/LPIF.Taxes extra. Offer subject to change without notice. Shaw Direct services are subject to our terms of use as occasionally amended. Channel count varies by market.

www.gvsbc.ca

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2012 Christmas Carols 5

O Little Town of Bethlehem O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie!

Above thy deep and dreamless sleep The silent stars go by; Yet in thy dark streets shineth The everlasting Light; The hopes and fears of all the years Are met in thee tonight.

For Christ is born of Mary; And gathered all above, While mortals sleep, the angels keep Their watch of wond'ring love.

O morning stars together, Proclaim the holy birth!

And praises sing to God the King, And peace to men on earth.

How silently, how silently The wondrous gift is giv'n!

So God imparts to human hearts The blessings of His heav'n.

No ear may hear His coming, But in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive Him still The dear Christ enters in.

Where children pure and happy Pray to the blessed Child, Where misery cries out to Thee, Son of the mother mild; Where charity stands watching And faith holds wide the door, The dark night wakes, the glory breaks, And Christmas comes once more.

O holy Child of Bethlehem, Descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin, and enter in, Be born in us today.

We hear the Christmas angels, The great glad tidings tell; O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord, Emmanuel!

Sir Alfred Waldron Smithers

Sir Alfred Waldron Smithers was born Oct. 4, 1850 in England. As director of the Grand Trunk Railway he made his first trip to Canada in 1896. In 1909 he took over as chairman of the line and remained as such until the Grand Trunk Railway was taken over by the Canadian government several years later. He entered politics in 1918 representing Chislehurst in the British House of Commons for four years. He was knighted in 1919. He passed away at the age of 74 in 1924. Sir Alfred’s family home in Kent, England is now represented by the name Knockholt in use around the Houston area. Lake Kathlyn was named for one of Sir Alfred’s daughters.

Wishing you a holiday season Thank you for another high flying year!

Have a great Christmas!

3470 Highway 16, Smithers • 250-847-4548

full of love and laughter.

6 Christmas Carols 2012

Twelve Days of Christmas

On the first day of Christmas My true love sent to me: A partridge in a pear tree.

On the second day of Christmas My true love sent to me: Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the third day of Christmas My true love sent to me: Three French Hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the fourth day of Christmas My true love sent to me: Four calling birds, Three French Hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the fifth day of Christmas My true love sent to me: Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French Hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the sixth day of Christmas

My true love sent to me: Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French Hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the seventh day of Christmas My true love sent to me: Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French Hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the eighth day of Christmas My true love sent to me: Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French Hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the ninth day of Christmas My true love sent to me:

A Holiday Message Greetings of the season and warm wishes for the year ahead.

Perry & Company

250.847.4341 Fax 250.847.5634

2012 Christmas Carols 7 Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French Hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the tenth day of Christmas My true love sent to me: Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French Hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the eleventh day of Christmas My true love sent to me: Eleven pipers piping, Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings,

Wishing you a happy, safe holiday season Please join us Tuesday, Dec. 18 for Christmas caroling!

Meet at our Smithers office (1175 Main St.) at 5:15pm to carol the local businesses, then return to our office for chili and warm drinks from 6pm-8pm.

- MLA Doug Donaldson

Four calling birds, Three French Hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the twelfth day of Christmas My true love sent to me: Twelve drummers drumming, Eleven pipers piping, Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French Hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree.

The Hudson’s Bay Company established a ranch in the Driftwood area in 1898 to winter company horses. Later it would be used for early agricultural experimentation and later still became the Nageli farm.

The first regular passenger train arrived in Smithers March 9, 1914.

Have a glowing Christmas!

Phone Smithers Bowl to book your Christmas party or family fun bowl 250-847-9840 info@smithersbowl.com

H " P G J J W "

R H "

C C L O V H P J

R

May the peace and joy of Christmas be yours throughout the year!

Merry Christmas from the Management and Staff at

H H L R M B B

2012 Christmas Carols 9

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Hark! The herald angels sing, "Glory to the newborn King; Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled!"

Joyful, all ye nations, rise, Join the triumph of the skies; With th'angelic host proclaim, "Christ is born in Bethlehem!"

Born to give them second birth.

Refrain Come, Desire of nations come, Fix in us Thy humble home; Rise, the Woman’s conquering Seed, Bruise in us the Serpent’s head.

Adam’s likeness now efface: Stamp Thine image in its place; Second Adam, from above, Reinstate us in Thy love.

Refrain Hark! The herald angels sing, "Glory to the newborn King."

Refrain

Christ, by highest heav'n adored; Christ, the everlasting Lord!

Late in time behold Him come, Offspring of the Virgin’s womb.

Veiled in flesh the Godhead see; Hail th'incarnate Deity, Pleased as man with man to dwell, Jesus, our Emmanuel.

J.S. Gray, the community registrar and later the jeweller and bandmaster, put the population of Smithers as 312 persons over the age of 16 in 1918.

Allan Kilpatrick was G.T.P. Superintendent in Smithers 1917-20. His son Norman Kilpatrick was postmaster in 1923. Mrs. Kilpatrick was active in the Smithers Choral and Dramatic Society.

Refrain Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace!

Hail the Sun of Righteousness!

Light and life to all He brings, Ris'n with healing in His wings.

Mild He lays His glory by, Born that man no more may die, Born to raise the sons of earth,

May your Holidays be bright, clear and full of the true Spirit of the Season!

4646 10th Avenue New Hazelton, BC Ph. (250) 842-2255 email: infohaz@bvcu.com

2365 Copeland Avenue Houston, BC Ph. (250) 845-7117

Lakeview Mall Burns Lake, BC Ph. (250) 692-7761

email: infohous@bvcu.com

email: infolakes@bvcu.com

www.bvcu.com

3894 1st Avenue Smithers, BC Ph. (250) 847-3255 email: infosmi@bvcu.com

10 Christmas Carols 2012

Good King Wenceslas

Good King Wenceslas looked out On the feast of Stephen, When the snow lay round about, Deep and crisp and even; Brightly shone the moon that night, Though the frost was cruel, When a poor man came in sight, Gath'ring winter fuel.

"Hither, page, and stand by me, If you know it, telling, Yonder peasant, who is he?

Where and what his dwelling?"

"Sire, he lives a good league hence, Underneath the mountain, Right against the forest fence,

By Saint Agnes' fountain."

"Bring me drink and bring me meat, Bring me pine logs hither, You and I will see him eat, When we bear them thigher."

Page and monarch, forth they went, Forth they went together, Through the cold wind's wild lament And the bitter weather.

"Sire, the night is darker now, And the wind blows stronger, Fails my heart, I know not how; I can go no longer."

"Mark my footsteps, my good page, Tread now in them boldly, You shall find the winter's rage Freeze thyself less coldly."

In his master's steps he trod, Where the snow lay dented; Heat was in the very sod Which the saint had printed.

Therefore, Christians all be sure, Wealth or rank possessing, You who now will bless the poor Shall yourselves find blessing.

Influenza hit the valley late in 1918 with Dr. H.C. Wrinch of Hazelton as the only doctor between Terrace and Vanderhoof. Despite his best efforts the epidemicO claimed about a dozen valley residents.

B

A L

The Bulkley Valley District Hospital was run by the Sisters of St. Ann from its opening in 1934 until 1969. I

A T L The Smithers Citizens’ Association lobbied Victoria about the sanitation problem in Smithers. TheW infamous ditches down Main Street could only beH solved by amending the Municipal Act to makeB provision for the incorporation of villages.

A

nd suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2:13-14

Beerda’s Drygoods

250-847-2116 Main Street, Smithers

O Holy Night!

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining, It is the night of the dear Saviour’s birth!

Long lay the world in sin and error pining, Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.

A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices, For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!

Fall on your knees, O hear the angel voices!

O night divine, O night when Christ was born!

O night divine, O night, O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming, With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.

So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming, Here came the wise men from Orient land.

The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger,

2012 Christmas Carols 11

In all our trials born to be our Friend; He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger.

Behold your King, before Him lowly bend!

Behold your King, before Him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another; His law is love and His gospel is peace; Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother, And in His name all oppression shall cease.

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we, Let all within us praise His holy name.

Christ is the Lord! O, praise His name forever!

His pow'r and glory evermore proclaim!

His pow'r and glory evermore proclaim!

Let it Snow Oh the weather outside is frightful But the fire is so delightful And since we’ve no place to go Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

It doesn’t show signs of stopping And I’ve bought some corn for popping The lights are turned way down low Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! a When we finally kiss goodnight How I’ll hate going out in the storm!

But if you’ll really hold me tight

Hermann’s Fire Extinguishers

Have a safe and happy holiday season!

847-3923

4190 Powell Frontage Rd.

All the way home I’ll be warm.

The fire is slowly dying And, my dear, we’re still goodbying But as long as you love me so Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

Joseph L. Coyle moved The Interior News to Smithers and journaled the events of the First World War. The war put an abrupt end to rapid growth in Smithers.

L.B. Warner took over The Interior News in 1918 and editorialized about the farmers being called to war: “...the labor situation has become so acute that it is absolutely essential that while these men [soldiers] are holding the first line trench of civilization, we in Smithers and other towns take up their work in the fields...” He then volunteered his entire staff, himself, for the job at hand.

12 Christmas Carols 2012

God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

God rest ye merry, gentlemen, Let nothing you dismay, Remember Christ, our Saviour Was born on Christmas day, To save us all from Satan’s pow'r When we were gone astray:

The shepherds at those tidings Rejoiced much in mind, And left their flocks a-feeding In tempest, storm and wind, And went to Bethl'hem straightway This blessed Babe to find.

Refrain O tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy!

Refrain

From God our heav'nly Father, A blessed angel came, And unto certain shepherds Brought tidings of the same; How that in Bethlehem was born The Son of God by name.

Refrain “Fear not," then said the angel, “Let nothing you affright; This day is born a Saviour Of a pure virgin bright, To free all those who trust in Him From Satan’s pow'r and might.”

But when to Bethlehem they came, Where this dear Infant lay, They found Him in a manger, Where oxen feed on hay; His Mother Mary, kneeling Unto the Lord did pray.

Refrain Now to the Lord sing praises All you within this place, And with true love and brotherhood Each other now embrace.

This holy tide of Christmas Doth bring redeeming grace.

Refrain

Refrain

Keep Christ in Christmas We wish to remind everyone that you cannot celebrate a birthday without honouring the birthday boy.

Christmas is Christ’s birthday.

Have a happy and healthy

Christmas & New Year!

Stop by to see what we have in stock.

Connie’s Coiffures Family Haircare

Highway 16, Telkwa

250-846-9395

3744 1st Ave, Smithers 250-847-3943

2012 Christmas Carols 13

O Come, All Ye Faithful O come, all ye faithful, Joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem!

Come and behold Him, Born the King of angels!

Refrain: O come, let us adore Him. O come, let us adore Him. O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!

God of God, Light of Light eternal.

Lo, He abhors not the virgin’s womb; Very God, Begotten, not created.

Refrain Lo! Star-led chieftains, Magi, Christ adoring, Offer Him frankincense and gold and myrrh.

We to the Christchild Bring our hearts' oblations:

Refrain Child, for us sinners, Poor and in the manger, We would embrace Thee, with love and awe; Who would not love Thee, Loving us so dearly?

Refrain Sing, choirs of angels, Sing in exultation, Sing, all ye citizens of heav'n above!

Glory to God, All glory in the highest!

Refrain Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, Born this happy morning, Jesus to Thee be glory giv'n; Word of the Father, Now in flesh appearing!

Refrain

March 1919 school attendance: Muriel Adams, Harold Berg, Myrtle Berg, Lois Devoin, Robert Dunlop, Harold Fotherby, Oswald Hoskins, Olive Oulton, Freddie Hollinger, Ernest Kirby, Ray Oulton, Daisy Smith, Alice Smith, Gordon Smith, Frank Smith, Marjorie Warner, Violet Smith, Gerry Warner, Norman Fotherby, Raymond Moran, Archie St. Louis, Dolphis St. Louis, Nita St. Louis, Johnny Berg, Mamie Gray, Flo Gray, Mary Ellis, Vera Green, John Williams, Muriel Stephens, Leslie Oulton, Dorothy Devoin, John Devoin, Vera Doodson, Muriel Ellis, Bud Gazeley, Billy Orchard, Nanna Anderson, George Ellis, Harold Ellis, Velma St. Louis.

The Driftwood Public School opened its doors on Jan. 3, 1921.

The Bulkley Valley Agricultural and Industrial Exhibition held its first Exhibition Sept. 30, 1919 in the rain near the site of the train station. The directorate was President A. Kilpatrick, Vice-President J.G. Wood, Secretary-Treasurer L.B. Warner, also George Oulton, E.C. Barger, and W.S. Henry.

14 Christmas Carols 2012

Dashing through the snow In a one-horse open sleigh, O'er the fields we go, Laughing all the way; Bells on bob-tail ring, Making spirits bright, What fun it is to ride and sing A sleighing song tonight.

Chorus O jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, O what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh.

Jingle bells, jingle bells Jingle all the way, O what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh.

A day or two ago, I thought I’d take a ride, And soon Miss Fanny Bright Was seated by my side; The horse was lean and lank Misfortune seemed his lot, We ran into a drifted bank, And there we got upsot.

Chorus A day or two ago,

Jingle Bells The story I must tell I went out on the snow And on my back I fell; A gent was riding by In a one-horse open sleigh, He laughed as there I sprawling lay, But quickly drove away.

Chorus Now the ground is white, Go it while you’re young, Take the girls tonight And sing this sleighing song.

Just bet a bob-tailed bay, Two-forty as his speed, Hitch him to an open sleigh And crack! You’ll take the lead.

Chorus

The old Bulkley River bridge at the end of Main Street was demolished in a massive ice jam in 1966. You can still see the piers of the bridge today.

A law from the 1919 era: "Hereafter all stores in Smithers will be compelled to close air tight on Thursday afternoon and Sundays, the action following an agreement by merchants and a declaration by the government that heavy fines will follow an infraction of the law."

Best wishes for this Christmas Holiday Season and may you experience much joy, good health and prosperity in the new year.

From the team at Edmison Mehr

Edmisonmehr.ca

3820 Alfred Ave.

The First Noel

2012 Christmas Carols 15

The first Noel the angel did say Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In fields where they lay keeping their sheep, On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

Then entered in those wise men three Full reverently upon their knee, And offered there in his presence Their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense.

Refrain Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel.

Then let us all with one accord Sing praises to our heav'nly Lord; That hath made heav'n and earth of naught, And with His blood mankind hath bought.

They looked up and saw a star Shining in the east, beyond them far, And to the earth it gave great light, And so it continued both day and night.

Refrain And by the light of that same star Three wise men came from country far; To seek for a king was their intent, And to follow the star wherever it went.

Refrain This star drew nigh to the northwest, O’er Bethlehem it took its rest, And there it did both stop and stay Right o'er the place where Jesus lay.

Refrain Jan. 29, 1926 the first court session was held in the Central Park Building, which was built to house government offices.

A grain elevator announced for Prince Rupert in 1925 increased grain production in the area.

L.H. Kenney was Chairman of the Village commissioners in 1936-37. Kenney gave chase to Smithers’ only bank robber in 1929 and retrieved some of the stolen money.

Jack Joseph was the Indian policeman who captured the bank robber.

Refrain

Refrain

White Christmas I’m dreaming of a white Christmas Just like the ones I used to know, Where the treetops glisten And children listen To hear sleigh bells in the snow.

I’m dreaming of a white Christmas With every Christmas card I write, May your days be merry and bright And may all your Christmases be white.

I’m dreaming of a white Christmas With every Christmas card I write, May your days be merry and bright And may all your Christmases be white.

16 Christmas Carols 2012

Gingerbread

Gingerbread

•

½ cup buttermilk

This spiced gingerbread recipe makes a delicious cake for an everyday dessert and it makes the house smell wonderful. Serve this basic gingerbread with whipped cream or a dessert sauce.

•

granulated sugar or cinnamon-sugar mixture

Cook Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Ingredients: •

6 tablespoons butter

•

1⁄3 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed

•

½ cup molasses

•

2 large eggs

•

1 ¾ cups sifted flour

•

1 teaspoon baking soda

•

¼ teaspoon salt

•

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

•

¼ teaspoon ground allspice

•

¼ ground nutmeg

•

1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger

•

1⁄8 teaspoon ground cloves

Preparation:

Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan. Heat oven to 350°.

Cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy; beat in molasses. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Sift together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, and ground ginger. Add sifted dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, beating after each addition. Spread gingerbread batter in the prepared baking pan and sprinkle top lightly with granulated sugar or a cinnamon sugar mixture.

Bake the gingerbread for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the gingerbread springs back when lightly touched with a finger. Serve gingerbread warm or cooled with whipped cream, lemon sauce, or a vanilla dessert sauce.

Cindy and the staff at the Blue Fin Sushi Bar would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Holiday!

We thank you for your patronage throughout the year!

We will be open Sunday, Dec. 23rd and Monday, Dec. 24th Open Mic Night Wednesday, Dec. 19th Live Rockin’ Blues Music

by Kathy Frank & NPS Saturday, Dec. 22nd Live modern country music Sunday, Dec. 23rd

by Angela Ettinger AKA “Some Chick”

250•847•5341 1232 MAIN STREET

2012 Christmas Carols 17

Go, Tell It on the Mountain Refrain Go, tell it on the mountain, Over the hills and ev'rywhere; Go, tell it on the mountain That Jesus Christ is born!

While shepherds kept their watching O'er silent flocks by night, Behold, throughout the heavens There shone a holy light.

Refrain The shepherds feared and trembled When, lo! Above the earth Rang out the angel chorus

That hailed our Saviour's birth.

Refrain Down in a lowly manger The humble Christ was born, And God sent us salvation That blessed Christmas morn.

Refrain When I was a seeker, I sought both night and day; I asked the Lord to help me, And He showed me the way.

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas Ev’rywhere you go; Take a look in the five-and-ten, glistening once again With candy canes and silver lanes aglow.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, Toys in ev’ry store, But the prettiest sight to see is the holly that will be on your own front door.

A pair of hopalong boots and a pistol that shoots is the wish of Barney and Ben; Dolls that will talk and will go for a walk

Is the hope of Janice and Jen; And Mom and Dad can hardly wait for school to start again.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas Ev’rywhere you go; There’s a tree in the Grand Hotel, one in the park as well, The sturdy kind that doesn’t mind the snow.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, Soon the bells will start, And the thing that will make them ring is the carol that you sing right within your heart.

Thank you for such a successful year and Mer r y Christmas from all of us.

Rudolph’s Pure Sausage 1303 Highway 16 W, Telkwa, B.C.250-846-5588

email: holger.rudolph@yahoo.de

18 Christmas Carols 2012

Frosty the Snowman

Frosty the snowman was a jolly happy soul, With a corncob pipe and a button nose And two eyes made out of coal.

Frosty the snowman is a fairy tale, they say, He was made of snow But the children know, How he came to life one day.

There must have been some magic in that Old silk hat they found.

For when they placed it on his head He began to dance around.

O, Frosty the snowman Was alive as he could be, And the children say He could laugh and play, Just the same as you and me.

Thumpety thump thump, Thumpety thump thump, Look at Frosty go Thumpety thump thump, Thumpety thump thump, Over the hills of snow.

Frosty the snowman

Knew the sun was hot that day, So he said, "Let’s run And we’ll have some fun Now before I melt away."

Down to the village, With a broomstick in his hand, Running here and there All around the square Saying, "Catch me if you can."

He led them down the streets of town Right to the traffic cop.

And he only paused a moment when He heard him holler “Stop!”

For Frosty the snowman Had to hurry on his way, But he waved goodbye Saying, "Don’t you cry, I’ll be back again some day."

Thumpety thump thump, Thumpety thump thump, Look at Frosty go.

Thumpety thump thump, Thumpety thump thump, Over the hills of snow.

Site Chosen for Railway Divisional Point

There were three possible sites for a divisional point for the railway. Hubert, ten miles east of Telkwa, a location across the river from Telkwa, and seven miles west of Telkwa. Seven miles west seemed the most unlikely but the firm of Aldous and Murray, whose names are borne by streets connecting Railway and Alfred Avenues near the CN Station, was engaged to purchase the necessary land. The year after the acquisition Aldous and Murray had this to say in a promotional brochure for the town: “The selection of the division point was of great importance and was not made lightly. Thorough exploration was first carried on and complete reports of engineers and traffic men examined. At last an almost level site on the south side of the Bulkley River, 226 miles east of Prince Rupert and 231 miles west of Prince George, in the very heart of the rich Bulkley Valley, was chosen. Some idea of the importance attached to this place by the Railway Company may be gained from the fact that it was named Smithers after its highest official, Mr. Alfred Waldron Smithers, Chairman of its Board of Directors.”

“The Bulkley Valley is a selection of wonderful natural wealth. It is one of the largest agricultural areas of British Columbia. Vast mineral deposits and valuable forests surround it. Its streams, that have run idly to the sea since the dawn of creation, will supply inexhaustible water-power. They are waiting to do their part in the development that is to come.”

“From every standpoint the location of Smithers was a happy one. It combined all the essentials, a wide tributary country with great resources, easily accessible to the railway centre. Its site for town-building and the installation of division point facilities is ideal and there is plenty of room for the expansion of the future city that will be necessary in later years. The railway’s wise choice of its division point shows that its chief consideration was to provide for the development of the country through which it passes and the ready collection and distribution of traffic.”

2012 Christmas Carols 19

It Came upon the Midnight Clear It came upon the midnight clear, That glor'ous song of old, From angels bending near the earth To touch their harps of gold: "Peace on the earth, goodwill to men, From heaven's all gracious King."

The world in solemn stillness lay To hear the angels sing.

Still through the cloven skies they come With peaceful wings unfurled, And still their heav'nly music floats O'er all the weary world; Above its sad and lowly plains They bend on hov'ring wing, And ever o'er its Babelsounds The blessed angels sing.

Yet with the woes of sin and strife The world has suffered long; Beneath the heav'nly hymn have rolled Two thousand years of wrong;

And warring humankind bears not The tidings which they bring; O hush the noise and cease your strife And hear the angels sing!

And ye, beneath life's crushing load Whose forms are bending low, Who toil along the climbing way With painful steps and slow; Look now, for glad and golden hours Come swiftly on the wing: O rest beside the weary road, And hear the angels sing.

For lo! The days are hast'ning on, By prophets seen of old, When with the evercircling years Shall come the time foretold, When the new heav'n and earth shall own The Prince of Peace their King, And all the world send back the song Which now the angels sing.

A southern columnist wrote in 1929: “Smithers, away up in Northern B.C., is putting on style. It means to get into the big-time city class along with London, Chicago and Buenos Aires. In the parlance of an earlier day, it is feeling its oats and is about to strut its stuff. The Smithers Board of Trade is changing its name! Henceforth it is to be known as the Chamber of Commerce. So far as I can learn from my Canada Yearbook, Smithers will be the only town in the Dominion boasting a Chamber of Commerce. It may not hold the distinction long, but it will have it for a while anyway. That’s what comes of being progressive, for Smithers has always been that.”

20 Christmas Carols 2012

While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

While shepherds watched their flocks by night, All seated on the ground, The angel of the Lord came down And glory shone around, And glory shone around.

“Fear not,” said he (for mighty dread Had seized their troubled minds); “Glad tidings of great joy I bring, To you and all mankind, To you and all mankind."

“To you, in David’s town this day Is born of David’s line, The Saviour, who is Christ the Lord, And this shall be the sign: And this shall be the sign:"

“The heav'nly Babe you there shall find To human view displayed All meanly wrapped in swathing bands, And in a manger laid, And in a manger laid.”

Thus spake the seraph, and forthwith Appeared a shining throng Of angels praising God, who thus Addressed their joyful song, Addressed their joyful song.

“All glory be to God on high, And to the earth be peace.

Good will to all from highest heav'n Begin and never cease, Begin and never cease!”

The population had reached 1000 by the middle of the ‘20s.

Swiss immigrants to Smithers in April 1937: Bill Gyger, John Gyger, Rosa Hug, Ida Hug, Marie Gyger, Emma Gyger, Agnes Schibli, Fritz Gyger Sr., Mrs. Gyger, Mrs. Waffler, Mrs. A. Schibli, Mrs. Hug, Mr. J. Schibli, Ben Hug, John Schibli, Louis Schibli, Ernest Michel, Martin Muntwiler, Josef Wettstein, Fritz Gyger, Mr. B. Hug, Mr. Waffler and Ernest Hug.

The origins of the population as reported in 1933: English 339, Hebrew 1, Irish 154, Italian 1, Scottish 223, Polish 14, French 43, Romanian 1, Czeck 1, Russian 3, Dutch 17, Ukrainian 6, Scandinavian 130, Asian 25, German 18, other 25.

Some photos from the 1950s provide us with immigrant names such as: William Mellace, Gioconda Mellace, Ted Mellace, Rosa Mellace, Frank Cuglietta, Anna Palumbo, Maria Mellace, Anna Cuglietta, Francis and Alice Stam, Nick and Sophia DeWitt, John and Cecile Konst, Tina Mulder, Mr. and Mrs. Frits Buursema, Mr. and Mrs. Theo Bandstra, Mr. and Mrs. John Bandstra, Mrs. Bill Vandergrift, Bert Haar, Pete Dieleman, Mr. and Mrs. A. Konst.

2012 Christmas Carols 21

We Three Kings of Orient Are We three kings of Orient are, Bearing gifts we traverse afar, Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star.

Chorus O star of wonder, star of night, Star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect Light.

Born a king on Bethlehem’s plain, Gold I bring to crown Him again, King forever, ceasing never Over us all to reign.

Chorus Frankincense to offer have I,

Incense owns a Deity nigh; Prayer and praising, all men raising, Worship Him, God on high.

Chorus Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom.

Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone-cold tomb.

Chorus Glor'ous now behold Him arise, King and God and Sacrifice.

"Alleluia, alleluia!"

Sounds through the earth and skies.

Chorus

November of 1929 saw the birth of the Smithers Band. J.S. Gray as bandmaster, and an executive of H.G. Olsen, W.V. Tomlinson, A.C. Fowler and L.H. Kenney.

The original Smithers Band: John Gray (bandmaster), Tom Hetherington, Vernon Crockett (High school principal), L.H. Kenney, K. Collison, George Bowie, Harold Berg, H. Matthews, Percy Berg, Thor Hanson, Ole Fegsted, Don Collison, Reg Collison, Bill Doodson, Bill Collison, Edgar Woodward, W. Tomlinson, Fred Wicks, Topsy Robinson, Bill Swift, Carl Raabe, Max Collison, Fred Fowler, Bill Grant, Dick Champion, Ernie Hann.

Chris Dahlie was both ski jumping and cross country ski champion in 1935.

The Smithers Junior Hockey Champions 1940-41: G. Hetherington, M. McIntyre, P. Mayer, L. Warner, B. Hann, B. Leach, B. O’Neill, N. Kilpatrick, G. Ludgate, B. Washbern, Walter Watson, C. Steele (coach).

Smithers Senior hockey team 1940: Doug Kerr, Jack Hetherington, Jack Chapman, John Dunlop, Harley Lewis, Bob Dunlop, Wilf Abel, Mel McIntyre, Mike O’Neill, Wilf Watson, Cliff Warner (coach), Jack McEwen (manager).

22 Christmas Carols 2012

What Child is This?

What Child is this, who, laid to rest, On Mary’s lap is sleeping, Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, While shepherds watch are keeping?

This, this is Christ the King, Whom shepherds guard and angels sing.

Haste, haste to bring Him laud, The Babe, the son of Mary!

Why lies He in such mean estate Where ox and ass are feeding?

Good Christians, fear, for sinners here The silent Word is pleading.

Nails, spear shall pierce Him through, The cross be borne for me, for you.

Hail, hail the Word made flesh, The Babe, the Son of Mary!

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh, Come, peasant, king, to own Him. The King of kings salvation brings, Let loving hearts enthrone Him. Raise, raise the song on high; The Virgin sing her lullaby.

Joy, joy, for Christ is born, The Babe, the Son of Mary!

We Wish You A Merry Christmas We wish you a Merry Christmas; We wish you a Merry Christmas; We wish you a Merry Christmas And a happy New Year.

Glad tidings we bring To you and your kin; Glad tidings for Christmas And a happy New Year!

Oh, bring us a figgy pudding; Oh, bring us a figgy pudding; Oh, bring us a figgy pudding

And a cup of good cheer!

We won’t go until we get some; We won’t go until we get some; We won’t go until we get some So bring it out here!

We wish you a Merry Christmas; We wish you a Merry Christmas; We wish you a Merry Christmas And a happy New Year.

The Smithers Fire Department in the mid-'50s: Harry Haywood (fire chief), Bob Williams, Tom Robinson, Toddy Kennedy, Bill Martin, Ed Malkow, Bob Fowler, Bob McEwen, Ed Hinchliffe, Orland Nockelby, Scotty Urquhart, Jack Ekman, Geoff Beley, Arn Van Lieshout, Ray Clarkston, Bonne Koopmans, Don Herman, Oakley McCammon, Bill Jackson, Dick Maywood, Dick Davies, Fred Riffel, Walter Watson, Dan Hawe.

Deck the Halls!

Deck the halls with boughs of holly, Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Tis the season to be jolly, Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Don we now our gay apparel, Fa la la, la la la, la la la.

Troll the ancient Yuletide carol, Fa la la la la, la la la la.

See the blazing Yule before us, Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Strike the harp and join the chorus, Fa la la la la, la la la la.

2012 Christmas Carols 23

Follow me in merry measure, Fa la la, la la la, la la la.

While I tell of Yuletide treasure, Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Fast away the old year passes, Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Hail the new, ye lads and lasses, Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Sing we joyous, all together, Fa la la, la la la, la la la.

Heedless of the wind and weather, Fa la la la la, la la la la.

The Interior News in late 1943 provided this list of "Bulkley Valley boys who have enlisted" in The Armed Forces: Henry Anderson, Carl Anderson, William Apps, Des Agnew, Joe Aida, William Beaton, Frank Barker, George Bowie, John Barker, Arthur Berg, Ernie Bodger, Bruce Bateson, Chas. Botham, Wm. F. Burmeister, Doug Bamford, Alfred Bamford, Joe Cunliffe, Ray Cunliffe, Wm. Collison, Don Collison, Graham Collison, Tom Collison, Ken Collison, Jack Chapman, Bob Clark (Forestdale), Fred Castell (Evelyn), Fred Chuprun, Pat Downey, John Dunlop, Chris Dahlie, Jorgen Dahlie, Halvor Dahlie, A.N. Dando, Charlie Doodson, George Durham, Cec Ebert, Fred Evitt, R.D. Evans, J.H. Ekman, Armour Emerson, Cliff Emerson, J.H. (Jiggs) Graham, Bud Gazely, Fred Giraud, Ed Grant, Tom Hetherington, Gordon Hetherington, Stan Heavysides, A.H. Howells, Bill Hewson, George Hibbs, Harry Haftner, Bill Hann, Ed Harding Jr., Clive Hoskins, Ben Hug, John Johnson, Tom Jones, Phillip Kenney, Doug Kerr, Mel Kerr, Larry Kemple, Norm Kilpatrick, Billy Leach, Grover Loveless, Bob Laidlaw, Guy Ludgate, Arthur Martin, Buck Morris, Pete Mayer, Craig Millar, Isaac Middleton, Dan Middleton, Harry Monkley, Lawrence Murray, Wm. McMillan, David MacBean, Dick MacDonald, Jack McDonnell, Mel McIntyre, Stan Noble, Alistair McKinnon, Sam Nutter, Mike O'Neill, Dan Palumbo, Bud Ponder, Harry Quick, Garnet Quick, Vic Ross, Allan McGill, Frank Simmonds, Alfred Seeley, James Seeley, Frank Smith, Bob Stephens, Walter Syrnyk, Don Sutherland, Harold Tanner, Fred Tanner, Norm Tycho, L.N. Warner, Wm. Westle, Robert Westle, Fred Watson, David Oland, Walter Watson, Irvine Wade, John Williams, James J. Wilkinson Sr., Bud Washbern, Vimy Windt, James J. Wilkinson Jr., Gordon Williams, Harold Windt, John Yelich.

24 Christmas Carols 2012

Joy to the World!

Joy to the world! The Lord is come: Let earth receive her King; Let ev'ry heart prepare Him room, And heav'n and nature sing, And heav'n and nature sing, And heav'n, and heav'n and nature sing.

No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make His blessings flow Far as the curse is found, Far as the curse is found, Far as, far as the curse is found.

Joy to the earth! The Saviour reigns: Let men their songs employ; While fields and floods, Rocks, hills and plains Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove The glories of His righteousness And wonders of His love, And wonders of His love, And wonders, wonders of His love.

Silent Night!

Silent night! Holy night!

All is calm, all is bright, Round yon virgin mother and Child!

Holy Infant, so tender and mild, Sleep in heavenly peace, Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night! Holy night!

Son of God, love’s pure light Rad'ant beams from Thy holy face, With the dawn of redeeming grace.

Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth, Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.

Silent night! Holy night!

Shepherds quake at the sight, Glories stream from heaven afar, Heav'nly hosts sing: "Alleluia; Christ the Saviour is born, Christ the Saviour is born."

Silent night! Holy night!

Wondrous star, lend thy light; With the angels let us sing, "Alleluia to our King; Christ the Saviour is born, Christ the Saviour is born."

Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer Had a very shiny nose.

And if you ever saw him, You would even say it glows.

Then one foggy Christmas Eve Santa came to say: "Rudolph with your nose so bright, won't you guide my sleigh tonight?"

All of the other reindeer Used to laugh and call him names.

They never let poor Rudolph Join in any reindeer games.

Then all the reindeer loved him As they shouted out with glee, Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer, you'll go down in history!

Away in a Manger Away in a manger, No crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus Laid down His sweet head; The stars in the bright sky Looked down where He lay, The little Lord Jesus, Asleep on the hay.

The cattle are lowing, The poor Baby wakes, But little Lord Jesus, No crying He makes;

2012 Christmas Carols 25

I love Thee, Lord Jesus!

Look down from the sky, And stay by my cradle Till morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever, And love me, I pray; Bless all the dear children In Thy tender care, And fit us for heaven, To live with Thee there.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Have yourself a merry little Christmas, Let your heart be light, From now on our troubles Will be out of sight.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas, Make the Yule-tide gay, From now on our troubles Will be miles away.

Here we are as in olden days, Happy golden days of yore, Faithful friends who are dear to us Gather near to us once more.

Through the years We all will be together, If the Fates allow, Hang a shining star upon the highest bough, And have yourself A merry little Christmas now.

26 Christmas Carols 2012

Winter Wonderland

Sleigh bells ring, are you listening, In the lane, snow is glistening, A beautiful sight, We’re happy tonight, Walking in a winter wonderland.

Later on we’ll conspire, As we dream by the fire, To face unafraid, The plans that we’ve made, Walking in a winter wonderland.

Gone away is the bluebird, Here to stay is a new bird, He sings a love song, As we go along, Walking in a winter wonderland.

In the meadow we can build a snowman, And pretend that he’s a circus clown, We’ll have lots of fun with mister snowman, Until the other kids knock him down.

When it snows, ain’t it thrilling, Though your nose gets a chilling, We’ll frolic and play, The Eskimo way, Walking in a winter wonderland, Walking in a winter wonderland, Walking in a winter wonderland.

In the meadow we can build a snowman, Then pretend that he is Parson Brown.

He’ll say: "Are you married?"

We’ll say: "No man, But you can do the job When you’re in town."

The inaugural meeting of the Smithers Junior Chamber of Commerce in 1949 included: Gordon Williams, Tat Aida, Hartley Fawcett, Wilson Muirhead, Nick Picul, Walter Burns, Stan Gould, Bill Leach, Keith Elliot, Ben Hug, Jorgen Dahlie, Larry White, Jack Chapman, Pat Carr, Gordon Hetherington, Bob McEwen, Ken Warner, Bill Grey, Cliff Emerson, Owen Hooper, Ian Panton, Bob Clarke, Dave Roumieu, Ted Chapman, Stacey Davies, Cliff DeGrasse, Wells Herriett, Len Evans, Bill Bovill, Harry Haywood, Fred Riffel and Walter Watson.

C.E. “Charlie” Morris was Chairman of the Village Commissioners in 1942.

2012 Christmas Carols 27

Angels We Have Heard on High Angels we have heard on high Sweetly singing o'er the plains, And the mountains in reply Echoing their joyous strains.

Come to Bethlehem and see Him whose birth the angels sing; Come, adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the newborn King.

Refrain Glo - - - - - ria, in excelis Deo! Glo - - - - - ria, in excelis Deo!

Refrain

Shepherds, why this jubilee?

Why your joyous strains prolong!

What the gladsome tidings be Which inspire your heav'nly song?

See Him in a manger laid, Whom the choirs of angels praise; Mary, Joseph, lend your aid, While our hearts in love we raise.

Refrain

Refrain

Good Christian Friends, Rejoice Good Christian friends, rejoice With heart and soul and voice; Give ye heed to what we say: Jesus Christ is born today; Ox and ass before Him bow, And He is in the manger now.

Christ is born today!

Christ is born today!

Good Christian friends, rejoice With heart and soul and voice; Now ye hear of endless bliss; Jesus Christ was born for this!

He hath opened heaven's door, And we are blest forevermore.

Christ was born for this!

Christ was born for this!

Good Christian friends, rejoice With heart and soul and voice; Now ye need not fear the grave: Jesus Christ was born to save!

Calls you one and calls you all To gain His everlasting hall.

Christ was born to save!

Christ was born to save!

The present-day Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre building, or “the old Post Office,” was originally built in 1953-54 as a federal building. The government purchased the Elks Hall of the day for the location.

28 Christmas Carols 2012 Come they told me, Pa rum pum pum pum, A new born King to see, Pa rum pum pum pum, Our finest gifts we bring, Pa rum pum pum pum, To lay before the king, Pa rum pum pum pum, Rum pum pum pum, Rum pum pum pum, So to honor Him, Pa rum pum pum pum, When we come.

Little Baby, Pa rum pum pum pum, I am a poor boy too, Pa rum pum pum pum, I have no gift to bring, Pa rum pum pum pum, That’s fit to give our King,

Little Drummer Boy  Pa rum pum pum pum, Rum pum pum pum, Rum pum pum pum, Shall I play for you, Pa rum pum pum pum, On my drum.

Mary nodded, Pa rum pum pum pum, The ox and lamb kept time, Pa rum pum pum pum, I played my drum for Him, Pa rum pum pum pum, I played my best for Him, Pa rum pum pum pum, Rum pum pum pum, Rum pum pum pum, Then He smiled at me, Pa rum pum pum pum, Me and my drum.

2012 Christmas Carols 29

Businesses of the Past

The Interior News of October 1913 lists these businesses in the newly established town: On Alfred Avenue two pool rooms conducted by H.P. Jones and H.W. Kraus. Between them, the Smithers Rooming House run by James Girling. Just opposite the rooming house is Henry and Dunlop, a real estate firm.

On the corner of Alfred Avenue and Main Street Mr. Bigelow was setting up a business similar to what he’d had in Telkwa. On the opposite side of Main Street Frizzell’s meat market. Adjoining the Meat Market was the Smithers Sign Works conducted by G.L. Hawkins. The Oyster Bay Cafe conducted by Victor Catway in a large tent on Alfred Avenue between Main and Queen Streets. The Royal Cafe under Robert Starr, and Mr. Schuler’s building on Alfred Avenue between Main and King Streets. Several lots at the corner of Alfred Avenue and Queen Street were occupied by the lumber yard and selling office of the Williams-Carr Lumber and Investment Company. Just across the street from the lumber yard was the sash and door factory of Smith and Eggleston who were also selling agents for the Seymour Lake Lumber Co. The Methodist Church was at Broadway Avenue and Queen Street. The corner of Broadway Avenue and Main Street was Lynch Bros. Broadway Avenue between Main and King Streets held the building of Murdie and Smith devoted to a bakery and coffee house, with bedrooms on the upper floor.

On Main Street between Broadway and First Avenues was Wilcocks and Wolseley’s two buildings of general merchandise. At First Avenue and Main Street was Sargent’s Smithers Store managed by J.A. MacDonald. Main Street and Second Avenue had Adams’ drug store and the post office. Across the street from the drug store was the Union Bank of Canada. On Main Street between Second and Third Avenues the Smithers Cafe was conducted by Stickney and Drummond, in a tent and moving to a building elsewhere, then Sweeney and Orchard were putting up a building for bowling alleys there. At Main Street and Third Avenue was a new building being built for the lumber yard and on the opposite corner Mr. Chisholms hardware store. A.M. Tod, practical electrician, secured a number of contracts for the new buildings as many were in fact still in tents. A barber of the time was John Wander. The Bulkley Valley Transfer Co. had their Smithers stables at Third Avenue and Columbia Street managed by Mr. Beaton. On Alfred Avenue between Main and King Streets was an architect and builder, L. Schuler.

Adjoining the Smithers Pool Room was McArthur’s Store. The Anglican Church was at the corner of Broadway Avenue and King Street.

Advertisements in The Interior News in November 1918 provide these businesses in town: R.S. Sargent general store, S.A. (Sam) Eby general store, Ed Eby opened a hardware store which was later Rodgers’ Hardware, J. Mason Adams’ drug store in what became Central Clothing, now the Central Square Medical Clinic, Sealy and Doodsons’ butcher shop, four real estate agents, James Kennedy’s pool room with fresh fruit in season and a circulating library, the Empress Barber Shop, George K. Katsuro provided baths and a laundry service, J.S. Gray with a jewellery store, George Little Lumber Yards, Bulkley Transfer Stables or Auto Stage Cartage would haul the lumber for you, Devoin and Gustav Rosenthal had Riverside Dairy. Other businesses included blacksmithing, farm implements, insurance policies, a music store where Mrs. L.B. (Peg) Warner sold Edison and Victor phonographs and records, violins, banjos, guitars and sheet music, L.B. Warner, newspaper editor, also served as local stationer, supplying typewriters, rubber stamps, and bookkeeping materials, Ernie Hann, a carpenter, and D.A. McRae of Good Eats Grill.

30 Christmas Carols 2012

Twas the Night before Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.

And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below.

When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St Nick.

More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

“Now Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! On, Cupid! On Donner and Blitzen!

To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!

Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!”

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.

So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, With the sleigh full of toys, and St Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.

As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.

A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

His eyes – how they twinkled! His dimples – how merry!

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.

He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself!

A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.

And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight, “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!”

Let Me Come In

Two nights before Christmas I sat on my bed, And more than just sugar plums danced in my head.

Our savings depleted; my job quite unstable; My wife wanting clothes and a new kitchen table.

The kids were all fighting about who was first On Santa's long list. My head nearly burst.

"Is Santa a fake?" the ten-year-old cried. "'Cause I'd hate to think that dear Daddy has lied."

"Of course Santa's real," answered mother with glee.

"When Christmas day comes, just look under the tree."

"Oh, Good!" the kids cried. "'Cause St. Nick at the mall Said he'd bring not just some of our list ... but all!"

My head started pounding; my temples were throbbing.

Then I heard the faint sound of my three-year-old sobbing.

"Oh, Daddy, oh, Daddy! How will Santa Claus guess That me and my doll need the same pink silk dress?"

I turned to my wife ... a long pleading look.

She put on their jammies, while I found their book.

I read them a story, then tucked them in bed With posters of Mickey and Simba o'erhead.

While Mama in her nightshirt and I in my skivvies Collapsed on the bed and turned on the TV. The news was all bad, the economy down.

The grimace on my face now distinctly a frown.

I shut the thing off and turned out the light.

With my wife on the left I rolled to the right.

A grunting of sorts was my tender goodnight.

Then I screwed shut my eyes to chase cares from sight.

Two minutes? Two hours? I couldn't be sure.

When I heard a noise that made my blood stir.

I ran to the window, threw open the drape.

Well, I saw a sight that made my mouth gape.

The moon on the breast of the five-day old slush Made the yard as appealing as six-day old mush.

When what to my dull aching eyes should appear But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.

Yes, Santa was there, but him I expected.

The shock came when all of the rest I detected.

The Cratchits, with Scrooge, and young Tiny Tim. King Arthur and Merlin, plus Old Madam Mim. The Whos all from Whoville, the Grinch and ol' Max. Young Dr. Doolittle there with his Yaks.

The Muppets there doing their whole Christmas thing.

While Alvin and Chipmunks started to sing.

And Jack with his beanstalk just starting to grow.

The poor little match girl asleep in the snow.

Frosty was singing and Rudolph was glowing, The drummer boy drumming. And I had trouble knowing ...

Just what I should do? If I had a choice I'd go back to bed, but I heard a voice.

"Let me in," the voice said. What an odd piercing line.

I immediately looked for a wolf and three swine.

Not the voice of a wolf though, I knew from the start.

2012 Christmas Carols 31

But a voice that could best be heard in the heart.

"Let me in," came again, and the crowd seemed to hear And turned to a manger that lay at the rear.

My untidy lawn, how embarrassed was I. That the sod was unfinished, I started to cry.

But not for the lack of good grass nor from shame, But because that sweet voice had called me by name.

The Cratchits, Miss Piggy, the whole motley scene All fell to their knees in a manner serene.

The girl in the snow awoke from her dream And lit her last match as a lamp for her King.

I ventured to walk down the stairs and go out.

As I walked through the crowd I started to shout "Oh, help me, please help me. I have bills to pay.

My job is in trouble and I've lost my way.

We've too many mouths to feed and to dress.

I’m just a failure, a wash-out, I guess."

I said what I felt. I said it out loud.

And I looked for support from the odd-looking crowd.

Their faces were filled with contentment, not thought.

They had not the depth for the comfort I sought.

Nostalgia, some laughs, and some heart-warming plots, All the magic of childhood ... of this there was lots In my friends just behind me. But they don't possess The power of true love; the power to bless.

My friends faded then ... fairy tales all.

But the Lord of All Hosts was still at my call.

I fell to my knees, folded hands at my chin.

I heard the voice say, "Please, let me come in."

I awoke in my bed and turned to my wife.

Her snoring repose took away all my strife.

The day of all days, Christmas Eve came.

We sat round the fire and called them by name, "On Dasher, On Dancer, On Prancer and Vixen."

We sang Jingle bells. The kids got their licks in.

The Grinch carved his Beast. Tiny Tim God-Blessed all.

Then we looked at the painting I'd hung on the wall.

I opened to Luke. We read of His birth.

We read of His life, and His works here on earth.

We read of our Lord, of our Savior, my friend, Then prayed to the Father and asked that he send All the spirit of Christmas; the Spirit of Love; All the blessings befitting us, down from above.

Christmas day came, and Santa Claus too.

And our own little Whos never cried "boo-hoo."

In fact, though their list had been shortened a tad They whispered together and then asked me, "Dad, Is there someone out there, some girl or some boy, Whom we could help out with a game or a toy?"

I did lose my job, then along came a better.

And we paid all our bills to the dot and the letter.

Our home now abounds not with money, nor fame, But with unfettered love for the Holy of Name.

I remember the stress and the fear that has been, But my soul now rejoices, 'cause I let Him in.

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