Houston Today, July 24, 2013

NEWS: RCMP Report

FEATURE: Canfor 75th Anniversary

PAGE 8

PAGES 9-14

Publications Mail Registration #0040028607

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 2013

Proudly serving Houston and District - Home of Canada’s Largest Fly Rod

www.houston-today.com

NO. 30 $1.30 Inc. GST

Credit Union funds Irrigation

By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

BILLOWING Burnout

Jackie Lieuwen/Houston Today

Kyle Thomson burns rubber off his 500 horsepower Camero at the Houston Drag Races last Saturday. Racers came from Kitimat to Grande Prairie to Prince Rupert to Terrace to compete in the drags last weekend. See page 7 for more photos.

“

The Bulkley Valley Credit Union is paying the first $10,000 for the engineering study to save Irrigation Lake.

“Irrigation Lake is an integral part of our community,” said Tanya Amonson, Manager of the BV Credit Union in Houston.

The Irrigation dam doesn’t meet safety standards so the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations sent a letter to stakeholders June 26 saying that if they don’t have a new water licence holder and an engineered plan in place by July 29 they will start plans to pull out the dam.

Steve Page, representative for Irrigation Lake stakeholders, talked to the Houston council last week

“

“I’ve asked the Ministry to look at extending the deadline.”

- MLA John Rustad

Tuesday about Irrigation.

Page said that with the funding promised from the Credit Union, he signed a contract with Carl Pentilchuk, Water Resources Engineer with Pentilchuk Engineering in Kamloops.

Pentilchuk is coming in August or September, Page said, adding that he thinks it’s fairly likely that the Ministry will extend the deadline.

See LAKE on Page 3

Police focus efforts on road safety enforcement

By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

RCMP Sgt. Rose reported quarterly statistics to the Houston council last Tuesday.

Sgt. Rose says this quarter, April 1 to June 30, had decreased assaults and theft from vehicles, and increased traffic enforcement, 2009 FORD F150 XLT CREW 4X4

NOW

ONLY

$24,998

breach charges, and charges for drinking in a public place.

Sgt. Rose gave the following statistics: Common assaults went down from 20 in the first quarter of 2012, to 9 this past quarter.

Property crime including theft over $5,000, theft under 2009 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN SE

NOW

ONLY

$13,998

Speeding charges nearly double.

$5,000, mischief, and possession of stolen property - went down from 38 in 2012 to 29 2008 TOYOTA CAMRY HYBRID

NOW

ONLY

$15,998

- RCMP Sgt. Rose this year.

Breach probation charges went up, from 5 in 2012 to 15 this 2010 TOYOTA RAV4 4 CYL

year.

“We’d like to believe, and the only thing that really suggests the decrease in assaults, is the increase in breach probations that we’re pursuing,” said Sgt. Rose.

He said five percent of the population accounts for 95% of the calls for service.

“If we’re ensuring that they’re complying with their court ordered conditions, or spending time in custody, then they’re not out committing those additional offences and assaults,” he said.

Sgt. Rose says there has been an increase in impaired driving

1-866-844-6723 View our new and used vehicles at:

NOW

ONLY

$22,998

www.glaciertoyota.ca

charges this quarter, from eight in 2012 to nine in 2013.

Charges for being drunk in a public place has gone up from 13 to 18.

“Primarily that’s because of the enforcement that we’ve turned our attention to,” said Sgt. Rose.

See RCMP on Page 3

2

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Houston Today

District of Houston

Newsletter ~ July 24, 2013 edition

Interim Urban Planner wants your feedback

Mr. John Guenther has joined the District team on an interim basis to help update the Zoning and Subdivision & Development Services Bylaws and to provide advice regarding incidental updates to the Houston Official Community Plan. Mr. Guenther and the District of Houston want to hear from you!

Where the welcome is warm and the wilderness beckons!

Upcoming Council Meetings: Tuesday, August 6, 2013 Tuesday, August 20, 2013 The above meetings are held at 7:00pm in Council Chambers, 3367 – 12th Street.

The Agendas can be viewed on the District’s website: www.houston.ca

Website: www.houston.ca Please visit the website for info on: • • • • • •

Council Meeting Agendas Pool Schedule Arena Schedule Important Public Notices Tenders & Job Opportunities Lost Dogs

Municipal Office Hours

Have you wondered how municipalities plan for: • • • • •

Places for streets, parks, houses, or businesses?

Protecting sensitive areas such as river banks or parks?

Enhancing spaces with landscaping?

Secondary suites/carriage cottages (detached dwellings)?

Livestock – chickens, sheep, goats, etc.?

Join us to provide your comments by participating at our public meetings. Meetings will take place this summer and fall. Everyone is welcome to attend the public meetings on: July 25, August 15 and August 29, 2013 in the District Council Chambers, 7:00 p.m. - Refreshments will be served. For more information or to share your ideas, please contact Councillor Michalle Jolly at 250-845-4201 or michalle.jolly@houston.ca or John Guenther at the District of Houston 250-845-2238; johng2@telus.net; or check us out on our website at http://www.houston.ca/siteengine/activepage.asp or our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/jjguent

This is our Town Houston!

This is our Town Houston is a local volunteer group whose main goal is to restore, enhance, and maintain the beauty of Houston. It is just one project of many that has been started by the Houston ACT Committee. ACT stands for Action Changes Things. ACT is a Healthy Communities initiative between Northern Health and the District of Houston.

Local community people have been investing their efforts into cleaning up our town, one vacant lot at a time! It’s all purely voluntary and it’s open to anyone who wants to help.

The photos below show the first vacant lot that was tackled for clean up on Thursday July 11th, across the street from Brewstirs. If you’re interested in joining us in our efforts, please contact our spokesperson Councillor Shane Brienen at iamshane@telus.net to find out where the next clean up challenge will be or checkout out our Facebook group called: This is our Town Houston!

Before

After

The Municipal Office located at 3367 – 12th Street is open Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed on statutory holidays) Email: doh@houston.ca Phone: 250-845-2238 Fax: 250-845-3429

For Public Works Emergencies (example: water main break) Call the Municipal Office @ 250-845-2238 for a recorded message with the contact number of the person on call.

The District of Houston has many projects underway this summer: Arena Netting – Has been installed at the Claude Parish Memorial Arena

Brushing Along Dyke – The brushing of the dyke along Buck Creek will commence in August with a proposed completion date of September 16th

Water Treatment Plant – Proposals have been received and are currently under review. A professional engineering firm will be selected and design drawings and tender documents to be started in August.

Zamboni Floor – Was replaced. Project Complete!

Dungate Community Forest

Phone: 250-845-7420 Email: reception@houston.ca

Arena Burning Permits Required All open burning within the District of Houston requires a Burning Permit all year round.

To obtain a permit contact the Fire Department at 250-845-2250

are due NEXT WEEK (July 31st ) Property owners are reminded that taxes are due by 5:00 pm on July 31, 2013. Any amounts outstanding after July 31, 2013 will be subject to a 10% penalty.

The Home Owners Grant must be claimed by July 31, 2013. If it is not claimed by this date the 10% penalty applies to it as well.

Water Restrictions Annually from May 1 to October 31 the use of water supplied through the District of Houston Water System, for other than domestic requirements, is restricted due to seasonal increases in water consumption and to ensure adequate water supplies for fire fighting and domestic demands.

Restricted uses include lawn/garden watering and will be imposed as follows: EAST OF BUCK CREEK (example: Butler Ave) MAY water on even calendar days between the hours of 6:00 am to 10:00 am and 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm ONLY WEST OF BUCK CREEK (example: Mountainview Drive) MAY water on odd calendar days between the hours of 6:00 am to 10:00 am and 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm ONLY

Steelhead Park Log Rails Replaced - The new logs have been installed at Steelhead Park!

Pool & Gym

Phone: 250-845-7432

2013 Property Taxes

Steelhead Park

Dungate Community Forest is accepting applications from non-profit groups and organizations.

Applications can be obtained at the Chamber of Commerce, District of Houston Municipal Office and the Bulkley Valley Credit Union in Houston. For more information contact dungatecomfor@houston.ca

Leisure Facility News & Events Last chance for summer swimming lessons!

Register today for our August 12-23 (Mon-Fri) lesson set.

Not sure which level to register in?

Come on down to the Houston Leisure Facility for a free swim assessment!

Junior Lifeguard Club (ages 8-12) Mon/Wed/Fri August 12-23 5:30-6:30pm $40

Houston Leisure Facility Annual Shutdown The pool will be closed from August 24 – September 8, 2013 The gym will be closed from August 31 – September 8, 2013

Like us on Facebook!

Go to Leisure Services – District of Houston to get all the latest information on programs and events around town! https://www.facebook.com/Houston.LeisureServices

Houston Public Library Phone: 250-845-2256 email: hlibrary@telus.net Website: http://houston.bclibrary.ca

What’s Happening...

Summer Reading Club • Ages 3 to 5 – Wednesday

mornings from 10 to 11am (until Aug. 14th) • Ages 6 to 8 – Wednesday afternoons from 1 to 2pm (until Aug.14th) • Ages 9 to 12 – Thursday afternoons from 1 to 2pm (until Aug. 15th)

Summer Reading Club Wind-up Party

Wednesday, August 21st from 11am to 1pm.

Mark Zagwyn Photography – Thursday, August 22nd from noon to 6 p.m.

Houston Today

NEWS

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

www.houston-today.com

CALDERWOOD REALTY

MLA asks Ministry to extend Irrigation deadline

LAKE from Page 1 MLA John Rustad said he is hopeful that the Ministry will extend the deadline if stakeholders take steps forward and have a plan in place as to how they will bring the dam to code.

“I’ve asked the Ministry to look at the possibility of extending the time period, but it’s based on the commitment that [stakeholders] take some steps forward,” Rustad said.

Page says they’ve had good progress.

“The only requirement we won’t meet is that we won’t have the design completed, but we have a signed contract with an engineer, and

funding for that, so I think we’ve done the best we could,” he said.

He adds that no one has yet taken on the water licence, but stakeholders are meeting with the water stewardship branch to discuss the water licence.

Talking to Houston council last week Tuesday, Page invited council members to join the discussion.

“It would be nice if the council could hear the responsibilities and the rights of whoever takes over the water licence,” Page said.

Houston Deputy Mayor Shane Brienen said the main concern of council is liability, but several councillors

Rock Nest Ranch Bible Camp is one of two camps nestled on Irrigation Lake. agreed to attend the upcoming meeting to discuss the water licence.

Page said the park on the east side of the lake, owned by the District of Houston, is what would be most affected if the dam

was pulled out and the lake dropped two to four metres.

“Even conservative measurements say that there will be at least 30 metres of mud and then the start of the water,” said Page, adding that

there could be up to 80 metres.

He says the amount of mud would be much less on the west side by Rock Nest Ranch and Rough Acres Bible Camps because the lake is deeper on that side.

Page says he has talked to engineers again, and now estimates that the dam upgrades will cost $70 to $80,000.

“We’re hoping that the water management branch will allow us to work on a design this fall, and raise funds and get people on board who want to donate, and then construction will actually be in very early September 2014,” Page told council.

T GREA HOOD! R O B EIGH

2013, they’ve gotten 10 reports.

In 2012, there were three thefts of vehicles, and in 2013 so far, there have been zero, Sgt. Rose said.

“I can’t really explain what accounts for that, other than it’s the locked vehicles preventing them from getting stolen,” he said.

Sgt. Rose told council there is a lot of police attention on one address in town.

He says that last year the address accounted for 12 calls for service in the first quarter and 48 total in the year; but this year police have been there 52 times in the first quarter and 97 times in the year so far.

District of Houston www.houston.ca

“That’s quite a constant drain because if we’re spending all our time there, dealing with charges that come out of it, that’s time we’re not doing

proactive controls, enforcement, and policing initiatives, we’re turning our attention just to a single address,” Sgt. Rose said.

$179,900

N

MLS# N228561

3770 Omineca Cr

Custom 4 bdrm home in Avalon Sub! Private backyard overlooks neighborhood park! Beautiful landscaping, paved drive, double garage. Many recent updates incl vinyl windows/ new doors, flooring, bathroom updates, furnace, HWT, paint, trim, eaves, sundeck, fixtures, etc. MB w/ ensuite. Fin bsmt w/ huge recroom, mudroom w/ bsmt entry.

$149,900

NEW !

E PRIC

MLS# N227424

1863 Hungerford Drive

Prime Location! 5 bdrm home backs onto walking trails & schools. Private fenced backyard, nicely lansdscaped, covered deck, large storage shed, garden, carport, great view. Vaulted ceilings in LR, 2 baths, large rec room in bsmt. Updated flooring, trim, paint. High-eff furnace, wood heat, central A/C. Full bsmt. Appl incl. Immediate poss available.

If you are buying or selling, call me today!

I also offer Free Home Market Evaluations and information on the current real estate market.

RCMP issue traffic tickets and warnings RCMP from Page 1 “As we see the breaches of probation and the booze enforcement go up, the assaults are going down, and that’s really good news.”

Sgt. Rose says one of the key priorities of council was road safety, so police have focused a lot of attention there.

Sgt. Rose says there has been an increase in vehicle accidents, which tends to happen in the summer because there are more people on the roadways.

Speeding charges along Highway 16 have gone up from 39 in the full 2012 year, to 59 in the first quarter this year, Sgt. Rose said.

He says police have also issued 83 violation tickets in general traffic enforcement, and 132 warnings in the last quarter.

Sgt. Rose said another council priority was reducing property crime, specifically theft from vehicles, and he thinks they are seeing some success.

He said reports of theft from vehicles initially spiked due to increased reporting, but they are starting to see the numbers decrease.

In 2012, police got 18 reports of theft from vehicles and in the first quarter of

Dan Hansma 250-845-8234 dan.hansma@gmail.com

A healthy local economy depends on you

SHOP LOCALLY

HANDCRAFTED

iNsuRANCE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PLAN 2013 - DISTRICT OF HOUSTON

Have you wondered how municipalities plans for: • Places for streets, parks, houses, or businesses?

• Protecting sensitive areas such as river banks or parks?

• Enhancing spaces with landscaping?

• Secondary suites/carriage cottages (detached dwellings)?

• Livestock – chickens, sheep, goats, etc.?

HomE CAR

Mailing lists and contact information help the District keep you in the loop.

Meetings will be coming in the summer and fall – 2013.

Attend the first meeting on:

July 25, 2013 - 7:00 p.m.

TRAvEl

in the District Council Chambers Refreshments will be served

Please contact the District: Councillor Michalle Jolly at 250-845-4201 or michalle.jolly@houston.ca OR John J.Guenther (InterimPlanner) at 250-845-2238 or johng2@telus.net; Web address: http://www.houston.ca/siteengine/activepage.asp Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/jjguent Put your name on the list to receive more information.

3

we ask the right questions to build the right insurance program just for you.

houston houston mall | 250-845-2454

4

Opinion

www.houston-today.com

HOUSTON TODAY “Member, B.C. Press Council” Published by Black Press Upstairs Houston Mall P.O. Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Houston Today

Phone: 250 845-2890 • Fax 250 845-7893 News: editor@houston-today.com or: newsroom@houston-today.com Advertising: advertising@houston-today.com

In our opinion:

Locked out

R

ecently, I was waiting in my vehicle for my wife who was shopping in Safeway, and I saw four people walk over to a vehicle. They stood around it, giving one of the guys the gears. It seems he locked his keys in the vehicle.

Locking your keys in your vehicle is not a problem if you carry a spare set, or if you have an extra set of keys at home and you have a friend nearby who can drive you home to get them.

Unfortunately, in this situation, neither of the above scenarios applied. So the owner went to look for a coat hanger to put down the inside of his truck window. Because one of the windows had been left an inch or two open, the girls with their slender arms tried to reach in far enough to turn the window further down. No luck!

Having been in similar situations many times myself, I went over to help them. As an exercise in sympathy, I gave them a string of rope and a long piece of rubber with a hook on the end. I couldn’t get my arm through the gap in the window, so I let the girls work at it. Soon after that, I had to leave.

I don’t know how long it took them to get into the vehicle. With the window partway down, it probably didn’t take too long. However, this situation does point out a basic necessity—carry a second set of keys.

The set doesn’t have to have all your keys on it—just a simple vehicle door-key.

An old trick that a lot of owners used to do was to purchase a magnetic key holder, insert the extra key, and place it under the vehicle in a place fairly easy to get at. That way if you locked your first set of keys in your car, you simply needed to crawl under the chassis and grab the extra key.

Nowadays, I carry an extra set of keys in my pocket—just in case. I wish I had done so in the past. I guess I left my keys in the ignition or on the car seat at least a dozen times over the years.

Many times I had my family with me, and because in those times we weren’t rolling in money, I always tried to get into the vehicle myself—usually using a coat hanger.

Most of those times, I did get into the vehicle to retrieve my keys. Sometimes it took an hour or so working that coat hanger up and down inside the window. Often the seal around the window would be damaged and the paint on the door might be scraped a bit. The task was extremely frustrating and time-consuming.

It’s interesting that when you’re in the locked out dilemma, a crowd usually gathers to watch.

In some instances, one or two guys insist on helping. They often work at the window from a different angle. Many of them had stories to tell about times they were locked out and how difficult it was. Their stories passed the time while we probed and pried to get inside the vehicle.

Perhaps the best way to ensure you are not stuck for too long with your keys locked inside the vehicle is to become a member of BCAA, an organization that is set up to bring help your way quickly. Don’t, however, leave your cell phone in the vehicle, too. That would be double lock out.

- Gord Turner, Black Press

Don’t take anything personally A couple of weeks ago I wrote about my positive experience with Facebook and encouraged people - my father, grandmother and in-laws in particular - to join. Later I received a lengthy email from a Facebook friend that called the article “crappy and mindless” and me “ignorant and flaky” for writing it.

Typically I’m not bothered when people give me negative feedback. It’s just part and parcel of the gig whenever you put yourself out there. It doesn’t matter if you’re a highly paid superstar or a starving artist, if you’re releasing your work for public consumption, you have to be prepared for harsh, impolite criticism. But for some reason, on this occasion, it stung for a few minutes.

I tried to figure out why this particular critique would affect me when most others were

easily brushed aside.

Perhaps, I thought, it was because it was coming from a fellow artist who I’d perceived as supportive of other artists and their freedom of expression.

But after scolding me for promoting Facebook during “the recent spy revelations,” I could see he wasn’t willing to accept that I had a different perception of it than he did.

He blamed the social media tyrant, and people like me who post our work on it for free, as the reason people’s attitudes toward media and art had been negatively influenced.

Was it because I didn’t completely disagree with him that his message affected me?

I started to doubt myself, wondering if maybe he was right and I was just a floozy writing drivel and hurting artists with my careless recommendation.

I would have reread my article about

Facebook if I didn’t have such an aversion to revisiting my work.

Instead I sent him an email explaining that I agreed the Internet has been a devastating blow for artists and writers in many ways, but since it wasn’t going anywhere, we, like everyone else, would have to learn to work within our changing world.

And since I’ve had an overwhelmingly positive experience with Facebook, I strongly stood by my promotion of it, pointing out that it could be a terrific tool for several reasons. Connecting with fellow artists like him for example.

Unfortunately, he had already de-friended me.

In a moment of weakness, and without naming him, I posted my feelings on Facebook and received an immediate and tremendous amount of support from friends

2009

I know personally, as well as friends I only know online.

For me this confirmed a few things.

Number one: my skin isn’t as thick as I thought it was.

Number two: I’m only human, so it’s okay to get affected sometimes. And number three: my Facebook friends are wonderful.

I don’t always agree with the opinions they post, and I love that, but what a privilege to have such a cool community of friends to laugh with and learn from.

So much wisdom, advice and encouragement was posted by so many of them when I needed it last Saturday morning.

My author friend James C. Tanner said: “A writer writes because it is a natural voice for them, the same way a bird sings.

There are those who will enjoy the sound of a bird while others will

On a brighter note Lori Welbourne look for a stone to try and strike it down.”

And my cartoonist friend Bob D’Amico wrote: “The way people freely fling around their opinions is equal to being a dog walking down the block, peeing on everything it passes.”

See, Dad? It’s not just pictures of the grand kids you’re missing out on by not being on Facebook.

If you join, just remember to keep your social insurance number to yourself and prepare for a few messy mutts.

Black Press Group Ltd.

2009 WINNER

B.C. Owned and Operated

DISTRIBUTED EVERY WEDNESDAY HOUSTON TODAY published by Black Press “Member, B.C. Press Council” www.bcpresscouncil.org Reproduction of contents either in part or in whole are not permitted without prior consent Copyright Canada No. 22 Serial No. 132934

Annual Subscriptions: Local (Houston only): $35.70 (includes GST) Seniors: $28.13 (includes GST) Out of Town: $50.00 (includes GST) We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.

M.A. Ruiter - Sales Manager Jackie Lieuwen - Reporter/Photographer Annamarie Douglas - Production Manager Otto Koldyk - Sales Representative

BC Press Council - Houston Today is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent within 45 days to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

Houston Today

Opinion

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

HOUSTON TODAY “Member, B.C. Press Council” Published by Black Press Upstairs Houston Mall P.O. Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0

www.houston-today.com

5

Phone: 250 845-2890 • Fax 250 845-7893 News: editor@houston-today.com or: newsroom@houston-today.com Advertising: advertising@houston-today.com

On the

Street...

What do you like about the drag races?

Ken Kapelari Telkwa

Torin Roper Houston

Susan Szufnarowicz Telkwa

Lyndsey Flogum Smithers

“The adrenaline!

And it’s a nice place to get to know people and meet new people - there are always new drag racers who come out.”

“This is my first time, but I like seeing all the old cars, because you don’t normally see them.”

“Watching and cheering. On the side of the dragsters there’s a lot of camaraderie, so that’s always fun.

And I like the competitions. It’s a really fun family event. And the kids like the ice cream.”

“All of it. The cars, the noise, the sounds, the smells.”

By Jackie Lieuwen

End electric car subsidies

Letters to the

Editor

Control borrowing Editor: Re: Get ready for Hydro rate hikes (B.C. Views, July 10).

Yes, the BC Hydro rate increase tsunami is coming after the earthquake of BC government debt. This will hit lower income people – hard. All levels of government are increasing fees and service rates rather than raise income taxes on those

who can contribute more and pay more property tax.

I don’t want to see any drastic action to increase job loss, but governments at all levels need to limit their spending growth to the level of inflation and get borrowing under control.

Phil Harrison Comox

Editor: Re: Get ready for Hydro rate hikes (B.C. Views, July 10).

Tom Fletcher’s article reiterates what we have been told for some time.

A large part of the future BC Hydro rate increase is caused by the fact that expansion of generating facilities delivers new power at a rate higher than today’s rates.

However, the government is bribing people to switch to electric cars, contributing to consumption

increases which will cause rate increases for us all.

P r o v i n c i a l

“ “

is choosing to grandfather the “half-price electric heat” offer for

time, the minister is telling us that we are producing more natural gas than we

“A large part of future rate increase is caused by the fact that expansion of generating facilities delivers new power at a higher rate”

consumption is also high because, although the E-Plus contracts with residential customers expired decades ago, the government

political reasons.

Also, some large g o v e r n m e n t buildings are still being heated this way.

At the same

need, so we should be consuming large amounts of energy to compress it and ship it overseas.

Should the first step not be to switch to

natural gas-powered cars, natural gas heating for almost all homes where possible, and for all large government buildings? The grant money for electric car purchases should be diverted to incentives for this move. Right now, electric cars are causing the burning of fuels at distant power plants anyway, because that is where our “last watt” comes from.

Rein Nienaber Saanich

New B.C. Hydro investment needed Editor: Re: Get ready for Hydro rate hikes (B.C. Views, July 10).

While NDP energy critic John Horgan asserts there is no business case for a nation building project like the Northwest Transmission Line, a line that will bring power to a huge part of the province currently running off diesel generators, our government believes investments such as this are exactly what BC Hydro should be doing.

This project will open up world class mineral deposits and support new mines, like Red Chris, one of the top 10 copper gold deposits in the world. In fact, the Mining Association of BC estimates the line could attract more than $15 billion in mining investment, creating up to 10,000 jobs and generating $300 million in annual tax revenues. None of this happens unless we build the line to provide the power these mines need.

we

We need to ensure have a diverse

these sources produce power at a higher cost

than alternatives such as coal or gas and

The Northwest Transmission Line will open up world class mineral deposits and support new mines.”

grid that can provide reliable power today, and into the future.

That’s why we continue to support new, cleaner sources of power such as wind and run of river. Do

than what our heritage assets do? Of course they do. Like most other things, it costs more today to produce power than it did decades ago. But these sources are cleaner

less expensive than building brand new hydroelectric dams.

We are investing in projects that are powering our needs today and ensuring we will have the power we

need for our future.

The unprecedented opportunity in liquefied natural gas and other growing sectors such as mining must be supported with stable, secure power. This is what we are building.

You can’t make these kinds of legacy investments that will benefit all British Columbians without putting pressure on rates. Contrary to some reports, BC Hydro is managing their capital projects within their planned

budget. There are a couple of projects over budget but most are under budget.

I have been very clear that my mandate, as given to me by the premier, is to minimize rate increases while continuing to make historic investments in Hydro’s infrastructure to grow our economy.

I am committed to accomplishing this goal.

Bill Bennett Minister of Energy and Mines Victoria

6

www.houston-today.com

Stay in touch with your hometown news!

Subscribe today!

NEWS

Houston Today

The Government of B.C. is funding a proj-

nized by the BulkleyNechako Regional District and guided by a Project Management Committee made of

are looking at data about the supply and demand of the labour force, as well as travelling throughout the re-

July 17, 2013 - Men’s Night #8 Sponsor: BC Bearing Number of Golfers: 49

The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako held a public meeting at the Houston Library last week Monday, to discuss the Regional Skills Gap Analysis.

Jackie Lieuwen/Houston Today

Come and join us... ...on our great full length 9 hole course

Willow Grove

Golf & Country Club Ltd.

ect to look at the skills gap in the labour force and give recommendations about how to improve things going forward.

“We need to understand why we have people unemployed, but yet we have companies who cannot find people to fill jobs,” said Trudy Parsons, Director of Workforce Development.

The Regional Skills Gap Analysis is orga-

local representatives from business, government, non-for-profit organizations, economic development and education, said Parsons.

Parsons and several Regional District staff had a public meeting in Houston last week Monday to discuss the project and talk with local people about regional assets and challenges involving the labour force.

Parsons says they

gion talking and meeting with groups and individuals to learn what is happening on the ground.

They are working with people in the Regional District and partnering with Chambers of Commerce to try to bring the business community together, she said.

Parsons says a big part of the project involves engaging First Nations, who make

Houston Community Calendar

Just minutes east of Houston

250-845-2100

Please keep your announcements as brief as possible.

Deadline (faxed or mailed or delivered) is 4 p.m.

Thursday. Items are printed or alternated as space permits. Items will be accepted via fax, email or dropped at the office. No phone calls please. More calendar items are listed online and can be submitted or viewed at www.houston-today.com

hssweb.sd54.bc.ca

Topley

Houston Dart League is Sat. evenings at 7:30 pm. upstairs at the Houston Curling Club.

Topley Volunteer Fire Dept. meetings every 2nd Blind doubles games.

Tues. of the month at 7:30 pm. Fire practices evSeniors Bingo is every Tues. at 7pm at ery Thurs. at 7:30 pm.

Cottonwood Manor. Entry is $1. Come out & Structural Firefighting/Hwy Rescue. Interested?

Houston Public Library - Summer Reading enjoy a fun prize filled evening. Lots of prizes!

Topley Volunteer Fire Dept. is accepting applicaClub: Ages 3 to 5: Wednesday mornings from 10 to 11am (until Aug. 14th) • Ages The Houston Legion Branch 249: Meeting: tions. No experience necessary please contact 6 to 8 – Wednesday afternoons from 1 2nd Mon. of the month is Executive, 4th Mon. Byron - F/C 250-696-3348 or come to a fire practice: Thurs. @ 1930 hrs (7:30 pm) to 2pm (until Aug.14th) • Ages 9 to 12 – is General Meeting.

Thursday afternoons from 1 to 2pm (until Houston Secondary School webpage: http:// n July 2007 Newspapers Aug. 15th). Summer Reading Club Wind-up hssweb.sd54.bc.ca Party Wednesday, August 21st from 11am to Pantone 287 1pm.Blue Mark Zagwyn Photography – Thursday, Houston Community Services is open Mon. Pantone 356 Green August 22nd from noon to 6 p.m. For more thru Fri. from 9am to 4pm We have clothing Granisle and District Seniors meetings are the Pantone 139 info Harvest on the above events call 250-845- to give away. Baby clothing; women’s and 2nd and 4th Thurs. of each month at 1pm in the mens as well as children of all ages. Come 2256.

Seniors Centre. and check it out!

Houston Secondary School - Office closed Granisle Volunteer Fire Department meetings until August 19 – August 30 (8:30am The Houston Retirement Housing Society & fire practices every Tues., 7 p.m. at the Fire – 3pm) Counsellor hours are August 26 – is asking interested parties to provide their Hall.

August 30. 1st day of school for the 2013 names for future vacancies at our Pleasant Granisle Church of the Way services are Sun., Logo File http:// Valley Village apartments. Please call Barbara is Tuesday, Sept. 3rd.Colour HSS webpage: 11 a.m. Bible study is Thurs. at 7 p.m. @250-845-3356.

lley

ON

lley

up 40% of the population in this region and could give a huge employment base.

“We need to do a

Willow Grove Men’s Night 0-14 KP: D. Dinell 15+ KP: D. Anderson 2nd Shot KP (everyone): A. Hodder (in hole) Food Market 2nd Shot KP (everyone): B. Timms Sunlife KP (everyone): R. Woytowich Willow Grove LD (everyone): D. Fuller Low Gross 0-14: Low Gross 15+: Erv Himech 35 Larry Flynn 40 Jason Roes 37 B. Mayer 42 Rich Labadie 43 A. Slaney 38 Low Net 0-14: Low Net 15+: Glen Kelly 30.5 John Meyer 31 Clayton Standbridge 32 Brent Chudyk 33 Andrew Hodder 32.5 Rick W. 33.5 0-14 Birdie Pot 26 $52 15+ Birdie Pot 23 $46 C. Standbridge x2 26 C. Kaszas $15 G. Kelly $10 A. Vanbarneveld $15 B. Timms $10 P. Dinelle $15 Deuce Pot: 49 $98 C. Standbridge $30 B. Patrick $30 A. Hodder $30

Granisle

Community Calendar proudly sponsored by

Bulkley Valley CREDIT UNION

HOUSTON & DISTRICT BRANCH 2365 Copeland Ave. P.O. Box 1480, Houston • Ph: 250-845-7117

You Belong Here

www.bvcu.com

Bulkley Valley

Houston Today

B.C. government funds skills gap project

By Jackie Lieuwen

www.houston-today.com Ph: 250-845-2890

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

better job of engaging First Nations communities and making sure that we’re tapping into that available labour force,” Parsons said.

Parsons said they will also look at the fly in, fly out system, asking why employees are choosing to do that instead of relocating to the area of work.

She adds that they want to look at strategies to help shift that pattern over the long term.

The project will culminate in a community information session Oct. 25 in Fort St. James where they will present everything they’ve learned, highlight themes that have emerged, and give proposed actions.

Parsons says they will want feedback on the proposed actions from anyone who comes to that meeting and they hope there will be individuals to partner or champion the proposed actions.

“This is not the Regional District strategy as an entity.

This has to be a regional district strategy,” said Parsons, adding that the Regional District entity doesn’t have the capacity to implement all the proposed actions.

There will be recommendations for education, industry, business and local government, she said.

Anyone interested in giving input to the project is asked to complete an online survey: See www.rdbn.bc.ca/ regionalskillsgap and find links to Employer and Resident surveys under “Provide your input.”

HOPE forToday In the Image of God

A few years ago, while walking down a street in Vancouver, I came across a construction site.

They had the sidewalk narrowed so only one person could walk through. As I approached the narrowing, I noticed a beautifully dressed Asian lady approaching the same narrowing in the sidewalk, from the opposite direction. As she came to the obstruction she looked up and her eyes caught mine, she immediately stepped aside and with a serious look on her face she looked down, it was obvious she was giving me the right-of-way. I almost kept going, but something stopped me. She is a woman created in God’s image, she is someone’s daughter, she is probably someone’s mother, someone’s wife, I thought. I will stop and give her the right-of-way.

As I spoke to her that she should go first, her head lifted and her eyes lit up. She walked through and she said “thank you” with a cheery voice as she passed by.

This to me was a special moment. It is a special moment whenever two people meet. Why is this?

I never met this woman before, I did not know her name, I did not know where she lived, I did not know her country of origin, all that happened is that we met for a moment on the street.

I believe every human being is special because we are all created in the image of God. The Bible, God’s word to us, says “From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live” (Acts 17:26 NIV). Every person is unique and stands apart from the rest of creation, because we bear the image of God. The Bible says “So God created man is his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27 NIV). Every person deserves respect.

This woman is also part of God’s creation. She also carries in her the image of God that each person has. I was glad that I did not take the right of way and rather, let her go first.

Submitted by Ken Penner Sponsored by Riverside Gardens

Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

COMMUNITY

Houston Drag Races

Thank you to

Murray Sullivan and Sullivan Motors for their kind donation.

The Idaho/Neville Fundraisers Advertising donated by Houston Today

Top: Pete Bremer spins the tires of his 400 horsepower 1971 Chevy Chevelle as he revs up for the upcoming races.

Bottom: Rick Lundrigan lines up his 850 horsepower 1978 Chevy Malibu at the Tree.

Give your smile the TLC it deserves.

We offer a full range of general and cosmetic dentistry services for a healthy mouth and beautiful, bright teeth.

Jackie Lieuwen photos /Houston Today

Need a smile makeover?

Call us today!

We now have a Registered Hygienist -

Rose Almagro please call our office to book your next appointment.

~ New patients welcome ~

LakeviewDr.Dental Centre J.R. Boss 744 Centre Street (beside the health clinic) Burns Lake

(250) 692-7791 • 1 (888) 629-3996

Willow Grove Ladies Night

N O R T H W E S T

C O M M U N I T Y

C O L L E G E

Date: July 16 - Number of Golfers: 36 Sponsor: Castle Building Supply

Raffle - $54 - Glenn Proctor A Flight Low Gross: Bonnie Heagy Low Net: Kathy Wardrop B Flight Low Gross: Ann Huls 45 • Low Net: Sylvia Lindaas C Flight Low Gross: Elaine N. 53 Low Net: Debbie V. D Flight Low Gross: Bonnie Edgar Low Net: Stacey Silbernagel Birdie Pot $2: Kathy Wardrop 2, Bonnie H. 1 Par Pot $7: carry over • Bogey Pot $2: carry over Putt Pots: A Flight Kathy W. $12.00 B Flight Betty Lou $9.00 C Flight Louise $4.00 D Flight Darlene/Bonnie $1.00 each A Flight Long Drive Hole #7: Lori Saretsky B Flight Long Drive Hole #8: Tasha Kelly C Flight Long Drive Hole #1: Debbie Van B. D Flight Long Drive Hole #8: Darlene Euverman Pizza KP on Hole#2 - Canadian 2 for 1 Pizza: Bonnie Heagy $ 10 Cert. proshop KP on Hole#3 - Willow Grove: Kathy Wardrop $ 10 Cert. proshop KP on Hole#5 - Babine Barge: Kathy Wardrop $ 20 Cert. proshop KP on Hole#6 - Sunlife: Kathy Wardrop Sleeve of balls Long Putt on Hole#7 Willow Grove Ladies: Glenn Proctor

Come and join us... ...on our great full length 9 hole course

Willow Grove

Golf & Country Club Ltd. Just minutes east of Houston

250-845-2100

SKILLS & TRAINING for a

BRIGHT FUTURE

Enrol now for SEPTEMBER ! nwcc.ca

1.877.277.2288

7

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

NEWS

Weekly police report

By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

At 10:36 am July 17, police got report of a tractor trailer and farm tractor that crashed 5 km east of Houston on Highway 16.

Sgt. Rose says police found that the semi had been trying to pass the tractor which turned left, and the trailer went off road left to avoid a collision. Houston Fire Department also came and contained a small diesel spill.

Police got a report of an accident on 9th Street in Houston at 1:29 pm July 12.

RCMP Sgt. Rose says two vehicles were backing out of separate businesses and hit each other.

Drivers were not in-

warned the other party that if they continue, they could be charged with harassment. *** Police got a report of yelling and screaming at 2035 Sullivan Way at 12:18 am July 14.

Sgt. Rose says police found a female in the hallway who had been in a consensual fight with two other females.

Police told her to go home but she refused and was arrested for breaching the peace and lodged in cells until sober and released without charge, said Sgt. Rose. *** Police got a report of threats at a home in Topley at 11:34 am July 14.

Sgt. Rose says police arrested a male, but spoke with witnesses and learned that the threats were historical and witnesses just wanted the male removed.

Police released the suspect and told him to settle his disagreement through the civil court, Sgt. Rose said. *** A vehicle hit a bear on Highway 16 near Topley at 8:06 am July 15.

Sgt. Rose says the bear was not killed, the vehicle damage was estimated over $1,000, and the driver was not injured. *** Police got a report July 15 of a theft two days prior in the Ambassador trailer park.

Sgt. Rose says a weed whacker, a jerry can of gas, and a red Kawasaki BMX bike with a grey child seat, went missing and anyone with information is acted to contact Houston RCMP at 250-845-2204 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477. *** Police got a report of an

jured but the damage was estimated at $1,500, and no charges were laid because both parties were partly responsible, Sgt. Rose said. *** Police got a report of an accident on Highway 16 and Nadina Ave. at 3:41 pm July 12.

Sgt. Rose says a westbound vehicle rear-ended a vehicle that was stopped on Highway 16 waiting to turn left onto the Hamblin Frontage Road.

Damage was estimated at $600, occupants of both vehicles complained of stiff necks, and no charges were laid, Sgt. Rose said. *** A female reported being approached by an unknown male at 7:42 pm July 12.

Sgt. Rose says the unknown 20 to 30-year-old male asked the 14-year-old female if she was interested in hanging out, and left in a blue or green pickup when she said no.

Police could not locate the male, Sgt. Rose said. *** Police were called at 9:49 pm July 12 to help the ambulance with a ten-yearold boy, injured while in a wilderness camp at 66 km on the Morice River West Road.

Sgt. Rose says the boy was playing with other kids on an embankment and fell, and may have suffered a concussion. He was taken to the Smithers hospital for observation. *** Police were called about harassing text messages from someone known to the complainant at 4:24 pm July 13.

Sgt. Rose says police

2014 MUSTANG V6 COUPE

Employee Price Adjustment /// $1,180 Delivery Allowance /// $1,250 Total Price Adjustments /// $2,430

†

SHARE OUR EMPLOYEE PRICE

WE’VE ALWAYS SHARED OUR PASSION.

NOW WE’RE SHARING OUR PRICE. †

$

6.8L /100km 41MPG HWY*** 11.2L /100km 25MPG CITY***

14,000 *

23,719

$

*

OFFER INCLUDES $2,430 TOTAL PRICE ADJUSTMENTS AND $1,650 FREIGHT AND AIR TAX.

WITH UP TO

IN TOTAL PRICE ADJUSTMENTS

On most new 2013 models (F-150 SuperCrew Platinum 4x4 5.0L amount shown)

Houston Today

person in possession of a modified 22 calibre rifle on at 2 pm July 10.

Sgt. Rose says the rifle was turned over to police for destruction, but is first being tested by the forensic tab in Vancouver to see if it is related to any unsolved crimes. *** Police got a report of a bear at Rough Acres Bible Camp west of Houston at 3 pm July 17.

Sgt. Rose says the bear was neither aggressive nor assertive and police notified conservation services. *** Police got a report at 9:43 pm July 17 of shots fired on a property on Hamlet Frontage Road in Topley.

Sgt. Rose says police investigated, seized three long rifles and identified and arrested the male who fired the shots, charging him with careless use of a firearm and unsafe storage. *** Police got a report of a possible arson at the LDM yard in Houston July 18.

Sgt. Rose says police found materials on the back of a work truck that had been lit on fire overnight. Houston Fire attended around 8 pm and put out the fire, and it was reported to police later that morning.

Investigation is ongoing and samples have been taken from the area for forensic analysis, said Sgt. Rose.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Houston RCMP at 250-845-2204 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477. *** Sgt. Rose says that in seven days police have had five false alarms, nine traffic related complaints and 1 bylaw complaint.

WISE BUYERS READ THE LEGAL COPY: Vehicle(s) may be shown with optional equipment. Dealer may sell or lease for less. Limited time offers.

Offers may be cancelled at any time without notice. Dealer order or transfer may be required as inventory may vary by dealer. See your Ford Dealer for complete details or call the Ford Customer Relationship Centre at 1-800-565-3673. For factory orders, a customer may either take advantage of eligible Ford retail customer promotional incentives/offers available at the time of vehicle factory order or time of vehicle delivery, but not both or combinations thereof. †Ford Employee Pricing (“Employee Pricing”) is available from July 3, 2013 to September 30, 2013 (the “Program Period”), on the purchase or lease of most new 2013/2014 Ford vehicles (excluding all chassis cab, stripped chassis, and cutaway body models, F-150 Raptor, Medium Trucks, Mustang Boss 302, Shelby GT500 and all Lincoln models). Employee Pricing refers to A-Plan pricing ordinarily available to Ford of Canada employees (excluding any CAW-negotiated programs). The new vehicle must be delivered or factory-ordered during the Program Period from your participating Ford Dealer. Employee Pricing is not combinable with CPA, GPC, CFIP, Daily Rental Allowance and A/X/Z/D/F-Plan programs. *Purchase a new 2014 Mustang V6 Coupe for $23,719 after Total Price Adjustment of $2,430 is deducted. Total Price Adjustment is a combination of Employee Price Adjustment of $1,180 and Delivery Allowance of $1,250. Taxes payable on full amount of purchase price after Total Price Adjustment has been deducted. Offer includes freight and air tax of $1,650 but excludes variable charges of license, fuel fill charge, insurance, dealer PDI (if applicable), registration, PPSA, administration fees and charges, any environmental charges or fees, and all applicable taxes. All prices are based on Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Delivery Allowances are not combinable with any fleet consumer incentives. ***Estimated fuel consumption ratings for 2014 Mustang Coupe with 3.7L V6 5-speed manual transmission: [11.2L/100km (25MPG) City, 6.8L/100km (41MPG) Hwy. Fuel consumption ratings based on Transport Canada approved test methods. Actual fuel consumption will vary based on road conditions, vehicle loading, vehicle equipment, vehicle condition, and driving habits. ©2013 Sirius Canada Inc. “SiriusXM”, the SiriusXM logo, channel names and logos are trademarks of SiriusXM Radio Inc. and are used under licence. ©2013 Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited. All rights reserved.

8

YOU PAY WHAT WE PAY. SIMPLY VISIT YOUR BC FORD STORE OR BCFORD.CA TO GET YOUR EMPLOYEE PRICE† TODAY.

bcford.ca

Hoskins Ford sales ltd

Available in most new Ford vehicles with 6-month pre-paid subscription

Hwy 16, smithers

this is Ford Country 250-847-2237 1-800-663-7765 www.hoskinsford.com

Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

9

75 Anniversary Section Tell us your story: Canfor 75th Anniversary Essay Contest 1938 2013

th

Opportunity to Win

2013 is Canfor’s 75th Anniversary, and we’re celebrating with an opportunity to win the full costs of first year-tuition (up to $5,000) for studies in forestry, wood products manufacturing, process or chemical engineering or industry-related trades such as millwright, electrician, power engineer, instrument technician, welders and heavy-duty mechanic programs.

Grow with Us

Canfor is one of the largest lumber, pulp and paper companies in North America, and we’re known around the world as a leader in quality, reliability and customer service. Global demand for sustainable, renewable wood and paper products is growing, and so is our company.

Over the next several years, we will need more than 1000 new employees to join our team. We offer interesting, well paid, technology-focused work, and a welcoming culture that is committed to growing people from within. In fact, our CEO started his career with Canfor 34 years ago as a sales representative, and today he runs the company.

Tell Us Your Story

We would like you to tell us why you’d like to be part of the Canfor team. Tell us your vision of a career with our company, what interests you about Canfor, and where you see the future for wood products.

Contest Rules

Students must be enrolled in grade 10 or 11 from September, 2013, in a Canfor mill community or neighboring community.

“

Attention Houston Grade 10 or 11 students:

Enter to win tuition costs for first year of post-secondary education (up to $5,000).

Deadline to enter essay is October 31, 2013

Essays must be submitted by October 31, 2013.

Essays must be 700 – 1000 words.

Your submission must include student name, school, grade, mailing address, email, phone, and T-shirt size (mens/womens, s/m/l/xl).

Entries will be marked on originality of thought, clarity of language and enthusiasm for a career in the forest products industry. Make sure your essay is properly proofread, spell-checked, and edited.

Once an essay is submitted to Canfor, the essay becomes the property of Canfor for use in publications.

Credit will always be given to the author.

Awards

All essays received by the submission deadline will be acknowledged by Canfor staff and authors will receive a Canfor t-shirt. Prizes will be awarded to the first, second, and third best entries, as follows: First Prize: Full tuition costs for your first full year of post-secondary education (up to $5,000).

Second Prize: $2000 towards the cost of books and supplies for your first year of post-secondary education.

Third Prize: An iPad mini, Wifi capable.

Timeline

October 31, 2013: Contest Deadline November 1 – 30, 2013: Evaluation of Entries December 1, 2013: Announcement of Winner

Submission Details

Submit your essay in PDF format to: contest@canfor.com, “Canfor Essay Contest” in the subject line.

Submit your questions to: communications@canfor.com

The Fine Print

Thank you for your contribution. Contest winners will be announced on December 1, 2013. By submitting your essay to this contest you consent to having your name and paper published on our website, in your local newspaper and in other media to be determined by Canfor’s Brand and External Relations department. If you are the first or second place winner, you will be able to claim your prize upon submission of a tuition receipt for any of the following eligible programs: forestry, wood products manufacturing, process or chemical engineering, millwright, electrician, power engineer, instrument technician, welder and heavy-duty mechanic. You will also need to confirm your contact information and provide your Social Insurance Number. If you are on a waiting list for a trades program, you will remain eligible for your prize up to 18 months following graduation.

Good luck!

A Division of

extends

Congratulations to Canfor

You’re invited to attend Canfor’s

75th Anniversary!

WHERE: Jamie Baxter Park West 14th Street near the Public Health Centre

on their

• BEARINGS • POWER TRANSMISSION • MOTION CONTROL • FLUID POWER • ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

75th Anniversary BBQ & Party WHEN: Saturday, July 27th, 2013 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM DETAILS:

• First 50 people receive a Canfor hat or bag • Coloring, Stickers and Temporary Tattoos

OUR PEOPLE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE 2860C Hwy 16, Houston, BC Phone: 250-845-3308 • Fax: 250-845-3368 email: bc89@motion-ind.com www.motionindustries.com

• Burgers, Salads, all the fixings & of course...BIRTHDAY CAKE!

Everyone is invited.

10

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

75th Anniversary Section

TOWER COMMUNICATIONS LTD.

congratulates

on their 75th Anniversary!

Tower Communications started in 1977 and has offered local employment and services to the forest and mining industry for over 36 years!

Tower Communications offers two way radio equipment Sales Service and Rentals, Direct Dial radio and satellite phone services as well as electrical services for your benefit.

Tower CommuniCaTions LTd. 3459 10th Street PO Box 1330, Houston, BC V0J 1Z0

Phone: 250-845-7306

E-mail: tower2@telus.net www.towercommunications.ca

Houston Today

1938 - 2013

Skeena sockeye fishery collapse Skeena River sockeye salmon are returning in desperately low numbers this summer, causing concern among conservationists for the future of one of BC’s largest and most diverse salmon runs.

The run collapse has triggered closures of commercial and recreational fisheries in BC, and may trigger restrictions on First Nations’ fisheries for food, social, and ceremonial purposes. Meanwhile, commercial fisheries have been intercepting Skeena sockeye in southeast Alaska, less than 100 kilometres from the mouth of the Skeena River, near Prince Rupert, BC. The cause of the apparent collapse is not known and SkeenaWild

Conservation Trust, Watershed Watch Salmon Society, and Raincoast Conservation Foundation are

“

“Commercial net fisheries in southeast Alaska catch up to 20% of all sockeye returning to B.C.’s Skeena River.”

calling on Alaskan fishery managers to put conservation ahead of short-term commercial interests, by allowing more Skeena sockeye to make it home to spawn.

“BC fisheries have been severely curtailed and closed,

NADINA TRUCK SERVICE LTD. ...Congratulates Canfor on their 75th Anniversary!

Our team is pleased to serve the logging industry.

We are proud to support our community with local employment offering Truck Services locally for over 40 years!

We have 12 bays for truck service, maintenance and repair, as well as a full-service body shop.

Nadina Truck Service partner/owners are John Brienen and Henry Fennema.

Our team of 22 employees offer convenient service hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 8:00pm Sat: 8:00am - 5:00pm

because the run is looking so dismal, and First Nations along the Skeena River may be restricted in their food fishing. Yet the

Alaskans have been hitting these fish just across the border,” said Greg Knox, Executive Director of SkeenaWild Conservation Trust.

Pacific salmon from British Columbia rivers spend their adult lives feeding in the North Pacific Ocean and swim through Alaskan waters as they make their way back to spawn in their natal rivers.

Commercial net fisheries in southeast Alaska catch up to 20% of all sockeye returning to BC’s Skeena River, often as “by-catch” in fisheries targeting local Alaskan pink and chum salmon. The Canada/US Pacific Salmon Treaty, which covers fisheries on both sides of the

border, does not prohibit the capture of depleted BC stocks in Alaskan fisheries.

“The Alaskan fishermen could still fish for the more abundant local stocks they are targeting, without harming depleted stocks from BC,” said Aaron Hill, a biologist with Watershed Watch Salmon Society.

“They just need to move their fisheries out of these open areas where the BCbound salmon are being caught.”

“It is interesting to note,” added Knox, “that the Alaskan State constitution would require Alaska to take action were these to be Alaskan stocks of concern. We hear a lot about how well-managed these Alaskan fisheries are, but when it comes to BC salmon swimming through their waters, they’re not walking the talk.”

The groups are also calling on Ottawa to defend Canada’s interests by doing more to protect vulnerable salmon runs from overfishing in US waters.

“The federal government talks a good game about protecting Canadian interests abroad,” said Hill, “but it seems that BC salmon haven’t made it on to that list.”

Congratulations Canfor on your... th

2235 Nadina Avenue, Houston, BC

250-845-2212

Anniversary John RUSTAD, MLA

Nechako Lakes

GOVERNMENT VEHICLE INSPECTION FACILITY

Phone: 250-567-6820 1-877-964-5650 Fax: 250-567-6822 E-mail: John.rustad.mla@leg.bc.ca Website: www.johnrustadmla.bc.ca

Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

75 Anniversary Section CANFOR on your Investors bullish on forestry Congratulations 75th Anniversary 1938 2013

th

Investors from all over the world met in New York this past week, discussing timberland and the forest industry in terms of short and long term investment, at the 11th annual IQPC

“

law firms, and banks.

Countries represented included Israel, Colombia, Brazil, China, New Zealand, Australia, Britain, Germany, Canada and the US. CILA Executive

scene, discussing the resurgence of the US housing market, and rising lumber prices, and noting the lack of current inventory throughout North America.

Arcand then

“Timberland and forestry investors around the world need to invest in people, not just land and infrastructure.”

World Timberland Investment Summit.

Attendees included senior decision‐ makers from the entire timberland investments value chain including pension funds, hedge funds, endowments, family offices, private landowners, TIMOs, REITs, forest products companies, forestry organizations,

Director MaryAnne Arcand was among the presenters to the conference, responding to a request to information about the labour shortage in the harvesting sector, and how that will affect production and inventory supply.

Keta Kosman, of Madison’s Lumber Reporter, set the

highlighted statistics from the 2012 report released by the Forest Products Sector Council, “Renewing Canada’s Greenest Workforce,” which forecasts the labour demand over the next decade, in a variety of scenarios.

The report noted that among the most “difficult to hire” forestry workers will

District of Houston Mayor and Council

Congratulations Canfor Your 75th Anniversary is a significant milestone...

The future looks so bright!

be logging contractors and equipment operators. Arcand’s presentation, entitled “Obstacle or Opportunity,” highlighted the need for timberland and forestry investors around the world to invest in people, not just land and infrastructure, if they want to capitalize on the tight supply chain, and therefore, higher returns on their investments.

The forest harvesting labour shortage is not limited to BC, or even Canada.

A Google search shows shortages noted in New Zealand, Australia, South America, the US, and even Africa.

Having timber available for harvest in a strong market is one thing, finding the people to do the work will be a different story.

From the Staff & Management at LB Paving

Congratulations Canfor...

We look forward to many more years of your continued involvement in Houston.

3487 - 9th Street, Houston Fax: 250-845-3566 countrywide@bulkley.net

Phone: 250-845-2944

Congratulations

to Canfor on your 75th Anniversary!

We are proud to support industry in the North!

We salute one of the world’s largest and most respected forest product manufacturers.

Thanks for your contributions to this community and best wishes in the future!

• Full Service Machine Shop • Equipment & Tool Rentals all over the North

• Serving our Resource & Energy Sector • Machining; Fabrication: Steel Erection • Mechanical Construction

1420 Morice River Road, PO Box 1446, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0

Phone: 250-845-3240

www.houston.ca

www.monsterindustries.ca

11

12

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

75 Anniversary Section th

Congratulations Canfor A job well done, looking forward to another 75 years.

Tire Shop hourS Mon. to Fri.: 8am - 5:30pm • Sat.: 8am - 3pm Car WaSh hourS Mon. to Fri.: 8am - 6pm • Sat.: 8am - 5pm

2216 Nadina Ave. North, Houston

Phone: 250-845-2700

Congratulations

...on your longstanding commitment to the community of Houston.

Your contribution to our area has been invaluable.

Houston & District Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 396, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0 Tel: (250) 845-7640 • Email: info@houstonchamber.ca

www.houstonchamber.ca

Houston Today

1938 2013

Toboggan hatchery hold competition

By Jerome Turner Black Press

The Toboggan Creek Fish Hatchery is putting the call out to people catching Coho and Chinook in the area to turn the heads in to local shops.

Doing so will enter the person in a draw for a multitude of prizes, but also allow for a more accurate count of returning salmon, Mike O’Neill, manager at TCFH, said.

“We’re just trying to make people aware to watch out for hatchery fish,” O’Neill said.

“If they don’t have a lot of room they don’t have to take the whole head.

“Just cut behind the eye and keep the upper jaw.”

Toboggan Creek tags each fish in the hatchery before releasing them, but a visual indicator of a TCFH fish is a

We salute Canfor on their Milestone 75th Anniversay!

We provide service to customers in • Forestry • Mining • Construction & Power Systems

SALES • PARTS • SERVICE • FINANCING West Highway 16, Houston 250-845-2213 • www.finning.ca

File photo

Jacob helps Bev Lyons with an over 30 pound Chinook salmon that she caught last year in the Morice River. missing adipose fin, which normally resides between the dorsal and tail along the spine.

“We expect returns of around 200,000 Chinook this year,” O’Neill said.

“Those fish will range from three to six years old.

“Plus we expect

returns from the 35,000 Coho we released in 2010.”

The Chinook will weigh up to 30 pounds and the Coho will average eight pounds, O’Neill said.

“We would especially like the Morice River heads,” O’Neill said.

“We haven’t been able to collect much data because the rivers have been so high.”

The TCFH will have two draws this year.

“One of the draws will be for First Nations who catch for food,” O’Neill said.

“The other will be for any angler.”

The first place winners of the draw will receive $250 each and there will also be smaller prizes for others who win down to 10th place in each group.

“We expect our fish to be coming through to the middle of August,” O’Neill said.

Fish can be returned to the Toboggan Creek Hatchery, Department of Fisheries and Oceans offices and most tackle shops from Terrace to Houston.

Fish will be accepted up until September, O’Neill said.

John Himech Logging Ltd. extends

Congratulations to Canfor on their 75th Anniversary!

Over 50 years of logging and contracting in Houston and the Bulkley-Valley.

Our most valuable asset is the people who live here and we are proud to offer local employment to support families and this community.

Highway 16, Houston jhlog@bulkley.net

250-845-2353

Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

75 Anniversary Section th

P

OREST RESO F H C UR E T CE O R

S

a n o s t a r g Con ! e n o d l l e job w

1938 2013

EVERYTHING GLASS! Glass for your Auto, Home & Business 2860 Hamblin Frontage Rd. Houston

250-845-2829

www.all-westglass.com

Telkwa, BC

Thank you and Congratulations

Congratulations to CANFOR on your 75th Anniversary

. . . we appreciate the business HOUSTON PHARMASAVE 3429 - 10th Street, Steelhead Centre

Phone: 250-845-3700

Multiphase Development • Resource Planning • Forest Health • Protection Silviculture • Timber Evaluation • Road Design • GIS/GPS 1158 Highway 16, Telkwa

Ph: 250-846-5060

Fax: 250-846-5007

Congratulations... on your 75th Anniversary!

Stardust

We wish you all the best for the future!

Contracting Ltd.

Phone: 250-845-8734

Fax: 250-845-3397 • Houston Industrial Park

• 6&7 Axle Live Bottoms for Hauling Chips, Shavings, Sawdust, Hog • Super ‘B’ Flat Deck for Lumber

13

spapers

14

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

75 Anniversary Section Area based tenure questions u yo Cheers to

N

ey

S

ey

S

1938 2013

th

Stop by for great food and drink specials + our patio is open!

Phone: 250-845-3010

Congratulations Canfor July 2007

Thank you for your contributions to the community of Houston - we wish you all the best for the future!

tone 287 Blue tone 356 Green tone 139 Harvest

ey

Houston Today

Colour Logo File

Bulkley Valley CREDIT UNION

HOUSTON & DISTRICT BRANCH 2365 Copeland Ave. P.O. Box 1480, Houston • Ph: 250-845-7117

www.bvcu.com

A provincial government move to pass enabling legislation that will open the door to area-based tenure instead of the current volume-based forest licenses held by forest companies raises a lot of questions – and a predictable amount of political controversy.

The idea of shifting to area-based forest tenures is nothing new.

The argument has been that such tenures provide forest companies with even more longterm security over timber-harvesting rights.

With that comes the anticipation that there will be greater commitment to more-efficient forest management.

There will undoubtedly be implications to the log-harvest sector, but until terms and conditions of the rollover from volume-based to area-based tenures is made clear, it’s a guessing game.

Bulkley Valley

Canfor continues to grow and prosper!

Bulkley Valley INSURANCE SERVICES

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Demand for sustainable forest products continues to grow….

Passing this enabling legislation will allow government to companies with even more long-term security over timber-harvesting rights. With

“

Lake sawmill.

Good news to some, but critics of the measure argue it will give too much power over the forest land base to forest Companies, cre-

“A lever to accelerate reforestation efforts, build local employment stability and encourage upgrades to mills.”

that comes the anticipation that there will be greater commitment to more-efficient forest management. Meet the commitment it has made to Hampton Affiliates in Burns Lake – to provide an adequate long-term timber supply that will prompt that company to build a new Burns

ating tenures akin to or in the form of Tree Farm Licenses that are valuable assets that can be bought, sold and traded between companies with little or no public input.

In the Burns Lake situation, the area-based tenure to Hampton is a trade for the commitment to

build the mill and employ local people. Will that same condition apply to other companies that will hope to benefit by the areabased tenure shift? Or will they simply gain more control over forests with no requirements for increased commitment to reforestation, to community employment, or to greater consultation with First Nations?

Area-based tenure could be a tremendous tool for government, and the Burns Lake situation offers a partial example. Why not use this assurance of greater control over long-term timber supply as a lever to accelerate reforestation efforts, build local employment stability and encourage upgrades to mills to keep them competitive?

Such measures would mesh well with a key recommendation.

Congratulations Canfor th

on your 75 Anniversary as you continue to grow and prosper!

We congratulate Canfor on their 75th Anniversary!

Our membership is pleased to partner with Canfor, working for success and prosperity for everyone.

STOP BY AND SEE OUR SELECTION OF NEW & USED DURAMAX DIESEL TRUCKS... WE’RE NORTHWEST’S LARGEST VOLUME DEALER FOR A REASON!!

We welcome your investment and confidence in Houston.

Highway 16, Houston

Sullivan Motor Products Ltd.

250-845-2244 Toll Free: 1-800-665-3151

Steelworkers Local 1-424 1777 3rd Avenue, Prince George, B.C. V2L 3G7 Phone (250) 563-7771 • Fax (250) 563-0274 Toll Free: 1-800-565-3642

www.sullivangm.com

Houston Today Wednesday, July 24, 2013

www.houston-today.com A15

Your community. Your classiďŹ eds.

250.845.2890 fax 250.845.7893 email advertising@houston-today.com Announcements The Houston Mall, Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0 Phone: (250) 845-2890 Fax: (250) 845-7893 email: advertising@houston-today.com Published Every Wednesday

TO REACH THE MARKET First advertise in the Houston Today! ALL WORD ADS go on the Internet for the whole world to see! www.bcclassified.com

REACHING US Call 250-845-2890 or come

by our office. Hours are 9:00 - 11:00 am & 1:00 - 3:00 pm Mon. & Wed. thru Fri. (closed Tuesdays). Fax in your ad to 250-845-7893 or email: advertising@houston-today.com

HOW TO PAY

Come to our office in the Houston Mall, or you may pay with Visa or Mastercard over the phone. All ads must be prepaid.

No refunds.

CLASSIFIED AD RATES REGULAR WORD ADS

3 lines (one week) .............$9.95

LEGAL ADS $12.60 per col. inch HWY 16 REGIONAL ADS

3 lines - No changes - ad runs in: Burns Lake, Vanderhoof, Prince George, Houston, Smithers, Ft. St. James, Prince Rupert, Terrace, Kitimat, Northern Connector (1 week) ............................... $78.88

BC BEST BUY ADS

25 words- No changes - ad runs one week, all papers covering: Lower Mainland .............$102.28 BC’s Interior ..................$124.95 Vancouver Island ...........$119.00 All of the Above .............$299.00 Extra charge for additional words

HAPPY ADS 2 col. x 2� or 1 col. x 4�

To announce birthdays, weddings, births etc ............................ $20.00 Please call if you need more information on any of our classified packages.

ALL ABOVE PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE GST

DEADLINES Thursday: 5:00pm

OUR POLICY

Houston Today reserves the right to edit, revise, classify or reject any classified ad not meeting our standards. No refunds on Classifieds Ads. AGREEMENT - It is agreed by the advertiser requesting space that the liability of the Houston Today (Black Press Group Limited) in the event of failure to publish an advertisement in or the event of an error appearing in the advertisement as published shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for only one incorrect insertion or the portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect or omitted item only, and that there shall be no liability in any event greater than the amount paid for such advertising. All claims of errors in advertising must be received by the publisher within 2 days after the first publication.

All advertising is subject to the approval of the publisher.

The Houston Today reminds advertisers that under Provincial legislation, no person shall use or circulate any form of application for employment, publish or cause to be published an advertisement in connection with employment or prospective employment, or make any written or verbal inquiry of an applicant that (a) expresses, either directly or indirectly any limitation, specification or preference as to race, religion, colour, sex, martial status, age, ancestry, or place of origin or a person; or (b) requires an applicant to furnish any information concerning race, religion, colour, ancestry, place of origin or political belief. In order to be credited for any mistakes the Houston Today is responsible for, corrections must be made before the second insertion.

Weddings

Information AL-ANON Are you affected by someone’s drinking? Al-Anon meetings are Monday, 7pm at the Houston United Church.

Contact numbers are: (250) 845-3356 or (250) 8457774.

Weddings

Employment

Nominated #1 Home Decor store in Northern BC

Home DÊcor, Furniture & Gifts 250-877-7778 • Smithers

Travel

Timeshare CANCEL YOUR Timeshare.

NO Risk Program. STOP Mortgage & Maintenance Payments Today. 100% Money Back Guarantee. FREE Consultation. Call Us NOW. We Can Help! 1-888-356-5248.

Employment Business Opportunities ALL CASH Drink/Snack Vending Business Route. Complete Training. Small Investment Required.

1-888-979-VEND (8363). www.healthydrinkvending.co LICENSED AUTOMOTIVE Mechanic required for very busy shop in Powell River, Sunshine Coast BC. Must have strong diagnostic and problem solving skills, email resume to: elmo1418@hotmail.com UP TO $5,000/mo. - Part time!

Set your own hours. Start right away. Go to: http://earndollar sonlinedaily.com

Career Opportunities NOW HIRING! Earn extra cash - Men & women in demand for simple work. P/TF/T. Can be done from home.

Acceptance guaranteed - No experience required, all welcome! www.BCJobLinks.com

Employment

BUILD YOUR CAREER WITH US

Maintenance Supervisor Quest Wood Division Quesnel, BC

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Meetings are at the Houston United Church, Monday and Thursday at 7:00pm. Contact number is:1-877-644-2266

Do you thrive in a dynamic and challenging environment with opportunities for continuous growth and development?

Your Favourite Store is now Online Tell your Friends!

Visit us at www.heartstringsdecor.com and facebook.

As a Quest Wood Division Maintenance Supervisor you will oversee plant and site maintenance initiatives while leading safety, and scheduling training and development activities for trades and maintenance staff.

HAPPY ADS...

Do you have family or friends celebrating a birthday, engagement or anniversary? Or do you want to place a general thank you ad? Happy ads for all occasions!

We offer an uncompromising focus on safety, competitive compensation packages, a progressive environment, and we are an industry leader in world markets.

2 col x 2� size: $20 (+GST) Other sizes available Call today for more info: 250-845-2890

Place of Worship

Place of Worship

3790 C.R. Matthews Rd. 3DVWRU /DUU\ %DOODQW\QH

6XQGD\ 6FKRRO $0 &KXUFK 6HUYLFH $0

Everyone Welcome! 3KRQH

Houston Canadian Reformed Church SUNDAY SERVICES: 10:00 AM & 2:30 PM Pastor Carl Van Dam s.carl.vandam@canrc.org 2IĂ€ FH 3KRQH ~ Everyone Welcome ~ 3797 Omineca Way, Box 36, Houston, BC

Houston Christian Reformed Church

Apply online today at www.tolko.com

Place of Worship

+RXVWRQ )HOORZVKLS %DSWLVW &KXUFK

1959 Goold St., Box 6, Houston 250-845-7578

Place of Worship

Place of Worship

HOUSTON & AREA

CHURCH DIRECTORY Anglican Church of St. Clement

2324 Butler Ave., Box 599, Houston, BC

HOUSTON PENTECOSTAL CHURCH 2024 Riverbank Drive, Box 597, Houston Phone: 250-845-2678 • Pastor: Mike McIntyre

Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 am Sunday Prayer Meeting: 7:00 pm Sunday School: During the Service Everyone Welcome

Phone: 250-845-4940

Services are: 10:30 a.m. Sundays

+RXVWRQ 8QLWHG &KXUFK

2106 Butler Ave. Houston, B.C. Contact: 250-845-2282

Help Wanted Selling your home or business?

3DVWRU 0DUWLQ 9HOOHNRRS ~ Everyone Welcome! ~

Services: 10:00 am & 3:00 pm

Apply Within

6HUYLFHV DUH D P 6XQGD\V

Get results in Houston Today!

LOOKING TO BUY A HOUSE WITH THE UP-GRADES DONE, READY TO MOVE IN WELL WE HAVE THE HOUSE FOR YOU...

E L P

S

AM

Four bedroom 2 bathroom house located close to elementary and high school. Numerous upgrades include kitchen, bathrooms, windows, and vinyl siding over two inches of blue Styrofoam insulation. Open floor plan and good room sizes, attached garage. Back yard has plenty of play room. Large outside shed to store your toys in. Must be viewed to be appreciated.

For appointment to view

INDEX IN BRIEF Family Announcements .......... 001-007 Community Announcements ... 008-076 Children................................ 080-098 Employment .......................... 102-165 Services ............................... 170-387 Pets/Livestock ...................... 453-483 Items for Sale/Wanted .......... 503-595 Real Estate ........................... 603-696 Rentals ................................ 700-757 Transportation ....................... 804-860 Marine.................................. 903-920 Legals ....................................... Legal

Weddings

FOR ONLY

99

$

E L P

+ GST

HOUSE FOR SALE

You get a 2 column x 2" display ad here (includes photo) & it

RUNS 10 WEEKS!!

M A S

2930 Nadina Way, Houston BC • • • • •

1200 square feet 3 bedrooms upstairs 1 bedroom down Large rec room 1 ½ bathrooms

• All appliances updated • Paved driveway • New flooring & paint • Vinyl siding main floor & basement • & more • Chain link fence • Front & rear decks Selling price

Phone evenings

Phone: 250 845-2890 Your path to a better job starts here.

Email: advertising@houston-today.com

www.houston-today.com

A16 www.houston-today.com

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Wednesday, July 24, 2013 Houston Today

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

dƌĂĐƟŽŶ dŝƌĞ ŚĂƐ ĂŶ ŽƉĞŶŝŶŐ ĨŽƌ Ă

TIRE SERVICE TECHNICIAN

THINK SAFE! BE SAFE!

tĞ ĂƌĞ ǁŝůůŝŶŐ ƚŽ ƚƌĂŝŶ͘

Tahtsa Timber is looking for

WůĞĂƐĞ ĂƉƉůLJ ŝŶ ƉĞƌƐŽŶ ǁŝƚŚ ƌĞƐƵŵĞ ƚŽ͗ 2216 Nadina Ave. Houston, B.C. Phone: 250-845-2700

SKIDDER AND PROCESSOR OPERATORS

with recent experience for a camp job in the Houston area.

Please email resumes to angelika@tahtsa.ca or fax to 250-692-7140

ADMINISTRATIVE/ RECEPTIONIST Sullivan Motor Products Ltd. requires an individual for their Administrative/Receptionist team.

This full time position requires someone who is energetic and can handle a fast paced environment. Must have good customer, computer and telephone skills.

A competitive compensation and benefits package is available.

Applicants should direct their resumes via e-mail to kim@sullivangm.com.

Sullivan Motor Products Ltd.

2760 Highway 16 West PO Box 478 Houston B.C. V0J 1Z0 Ph 250-845-2244 • Fax 250-845-2524

www.sullivangm.com

Smithers Community Services

“A place where hope, opportunities and possibilities are realized.”

Job Posting – Competition #312 Building Maintenance Cottonwood Manor Houston Smithers Community Services Association requires a permanent part-time 10 hours per week Building Maintenance person for Cottonwood Manor in Houston. The successful applicant will be expected to provide the ongoing maintenance and repair of the building, units and grounds at Cottonwood Manor.

Qualifications: • Demonstrated experience, knowledge and ability to perform standard maintenance and repairs of buildings and grounds • Sound knowledge of carpentry, plumbing, painting, grounds-keeping, and safety practices and procedures • Ability to communicate efficiently and fluently in written and oral form • Ability to communicate using current business technology ie computer, internet • Ability to establish and maintain effective and cooperate working relationships • Valid Class 5 Drivers Licence • Willing to acquire OFA Level 1 and undergo a criminal record check Apply with resume and cover letter (state competition #312 on resume): Mail to: Smithers Community Services Association 3715 Railway Ave., Smithers Box 3759, Smithers, BC V0J 2N0 Fax: 847-3712 Email: general@scsa.ca Website: www.scsa.ca Closing date: Friday, July 26 2013 Job Description available by request

Services

Merchandise for Sale

Help Wanted

Financial Services

An Alberta Oilfield Company is hiring dozer and excavator operators. Lodging and meals provided. Drug testing required. Call (780)723-5051 Edson, Alta.

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed?

Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: It’s That Simple.

Your Credit / Age / Income is not an issue. 1.800.587.2161.

M O N E Y P ROV I D E R . C O M $500 Loan and +. No Credit Refused. Fast, Easy, 100% Secure. 1-877-776-1660.

Heavy Duty Machinery

Employment

BANNISTER Collision & Glass Centre, Vernon BC

Due to growth in our ICBC Express Repair Body Shop, we are seeking to fill the following position: LICENSED AUTO BODY TECHNICIAN 2ND/3RD YEAR APPRENTICE. Competitive Wages - Good Benefits. Preference may be given to applicants with previous ICBC Express Shop Experience. Please forward your resume with cover letter by fax or email to the attention of Bill Blackey. Fax 250-545-2256 or email bodyshop@bannisters.com Full-Time Year Round

Blaster

Chilliwack, BC

has openings for LABOUR

POSITIONS.

Candidate must be physically fit, reliable and willing to work shift work. Starting wage is $13.00 per hour plus bonuses. Benefit package after 3 months.

Please apply in person to 1250 Hols Rd. Houston, or fax to 250-845-3303 or email to dhmnfg@gmail.com

FRONTIER CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP Highway 16 East, Smithers

Frontier Chrysler – Smithers BC has immediate openings for the following positions.

We are growing and need a...

• Lube Technician • Journeyman Technician • Part time Business Manager (2 days a week)

Interested applicants can forward their resume to glennb@frontierchrysler.net or drop off in person to 3046 Hwy 16 in Smithers.

“A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN OUR REGION” 37, 3RD Avenue, PH: 250-692-3195 PO Box 820, TF: 800-320-3339 Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 FX: 250-692-3305 www.rdbn.bc.ca E-MAIL:inquiries@rdbn.bc.ca

Serving Fraser Valley & Lower mainland. Must have valid BC Mines ticket & Worksafe BC ticket. Excellent wage & Benefit package.

Attention Bryan Kirkness @ Western Explosives Ltd. reception@kirknessgroup.com

GUARANTEED JOB Placement: General Laborers and Tradesmen For Oil & Gas Industry.

Call 24hr Free Recorded Message. For Information 1-800-972-0209.

The Lemare Group is accepting resumes for the following positions: • Certified Hand Fallers • Office Highway Logging Truck Drivers • Log Loader Operator • Grapple Yarder Operators • Boom Boat Operator • Chasers • Hooktenders • 2nd Loaders-Buckermen • Heavy Duty Mechanics Fulltime camp with union rates/benefits. Please send resumes by fax to 250-956-4888 or email to: office@lemare.ca.

For Sale By Owner

Need CA$H Today?

Own A Vehicle?

Borrow Up To $25,000

No Credit Checks!

Cash same day, local office.

www.PitStopLoans.com 1-800-514-9399

Legal Services CRIMINAL RECORD? Don’t let it block employment, travel, education, professional, certification, adoption property rental opportunities. For peace of mind & a free consultation call 1-800-347-2540.

Pets & Livestock

Livestock PUREBRED KATAHDIN Sheep, lambs, adult ewes, also mixed breeds. (250) 6956980

Merchandise for Sale

Auctions HUGE Burnaby Restaurant Equipment Auction - used equipment from closed restaurants & NEW equipment direct from manufacturer! www.KwikAuctions.com for info and to sign up for our e-newsletter or call 1-800-556-KWIK

A-STEEL SHIPPING DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS Used 20’40’45’53 in stock.

SPECIAL 44’ x 40’ Container Shop w/steel trusses $13,800!

Sets up in one day!

40’ Containers under $2500!

Call Toll Free Also JD 544 & 644 wheel loaders JD 892D LC Excavator Ph. 1-866-528-7108 Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com

Misc. for Sale AT LAST! An iron filter that works. IronEater! Fully patented Canada/U.S.A. Removes iron, hardness, smell, manganese. Since 1957. Visit our 29 innovative inventions; Phone 1-800-BIG-IRON. Or online at: www.bigirondrilling.com CENTRAL RV. New and used sea containers. Best prices in B.C. Can Deliver. 20’ New $3800. Used $2800. Other sizes available call for pricing.

(250)314-9522.

HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available.

1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/newspaper?

KILL BED Bugs & Their Eggs!

Buy a Harris Bed Bug Kit, Complete Room Treatment Solution. Odorless, Non-Staining. Available online homedepot.com (NOT IN STORES).

STEEL BUILDINGS/metal buildings 60% off! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-4572206 or visit us online at: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

Misc. Wanted Local Coin Collector Buying Collections, Olympic Gold & Silver Coins etc 778-281-0030

Why Rent? When you can own? #7, Shady Rest RV Park 1975 14’ x 72’ 1100 sq ft, 3 bedroom, 1 bath. Bright spacious kitchen, lots of cupboards, laminate flooring in living room and hall. Newer hot water tank and furnace. Fridge, Stove, Dishwasher, Washer and Dryer. Large deck & covered patio.

Asking $29,500. Call 250-845-2260 for more details.

Real Estate Other Areas 20 ACRES FREE! Own 60 acres for 40 acre price/payment $0 Down, $198/mo.

Money Back Guarantee, No Credit Checks.

Beautiful Views, West Texas. Call 1800-843-7537. www.texaslandbuys.com

LOOKING TO BUY A HOUSE WITH THE UP-GRADES DONE, READY TO MOVE IN...

WELL WE HAVE THE HOUSE FOR YOU!

GIS TECHNICIAN The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako is seeking a qualified person to fill the position of GIS Technician.

This position is responsible for the development and maintenance of the Regional District’s geographic information system.

The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako offices are located in the Village of Burns Lake, which is in the heart of northern British Columbia, about 222 km west of Prince George on Highway 16. Burns Lake and region offers world class fishing, hiking, mountain biking, cross country skiing, camping, and other outdoor recreation opportunities.

Also, the community is home to a wide range of services and amenities, including a new hospital which is currently under construction.

Four bedroom 2 bathroom house located close to elementary and high school. Numerous upgrades include kitchen, bathrooms, windows, and vinyl siding over two inches of blue Styrofoam insulation. Attached garage.

Fenced back yard has plenty of play room. Large outside shed. Fridge, Stove, Dishwasher, Washer, Dryer, Deep Freeze, and built in vacuum included. $172,900.

For appointment to view 1- 250-845-2613

The position requires a technical degree, diploma, or certificate specializing in GIS. Experience working in a local government GIS environment would be an asset. This is a permanent full time position offering a competitive salary and benefits package.

Applications should be addressed to Jason Llewellyn, Director of Planning at the above address, prior to August 16th, 2013.

SHOP ONLINE...

Anytime!

bcclassified.com

Houston Today Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Trucks & Vans CANOPY FOR full-size pickup box. Good shape. Asking $300. Also four six ply tires: 215 x 75 x 15 inch. Good Shape. Asking $150. Call: Bob: 250-696-3477

Boats 17 ft. Alum. Canoe “Spring Bok” very stable, perfect of family / hunting canoe. $600.

---------------------------------13 ft. Alum. Canoe “Sports Pal” very stable & very light, 2 seats. $500.

Call (250) 692-2372

Cars - Domestic

MUST SELL

Transportation

www.houston-today.com A17

Cars - Domestic

NEW LIS TING!

www.houston.ca

Request for Quotation 2013 Gravel Crushing The District of Houston will receive quotations for the 2013 Gravel Crushing program:

1996 Chevrolet Cavalier SL 2 dr convert, average condition.

Now only . . .

$3,600

obo

100% Financing available O.A.C.

Legal Notices

Volunteer your time, energy and skills today.

Legal Notices

District of Houston

250-847-7928 Cell 250-877-2434

Fight Back.

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

Houston Forest Products A Division of West Fraser Mills Ltd.

Forest Stewardship Plan Proposed Development HFP 2013-1 Houston Forest Products has proposed a number of blocks and associated access roads within the Morice TSA. The public is invited to view and provide written comments on these proposed blocks and roads within the following Forest Development Units.

Forest Development Unit Morrison Nadina Thautil Buck Owen Sweeney Tahtsa Whitesail These proposed developments will be available for viewing at the following location until September 9, 2013, during the office hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm: Houston Forest Products, Mile 2, Morice River Road, Houston, B.C. To ensure consideration, written comments must be received by September 9, 2013. For more information regarding this plan, to arrange a viewing, or to provide comments, please contact: Jaret van der Giessen, RPF Houston Forest Products A Division of West Fraser Mills Ltd. 1300 Morice River Road, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z1 Telephone: (250) 845-2322 Fax: (250) 845-5301

Stay in touch with your hometown news!

Invite the whole

Subscribe Today Subscription Rates

community to your next brownie meeting, hockey game or gala evening with a couple of clicks. Add your event today.

1 Year (Locally)................$35.70 1 Year Senior 60+ (Locally) ................................

includes GST

28.13 GST

$

includes

Keep on top of all the news and views that are important to our community, subscribe or renew today! events P.O. Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J there’s1Z0 moreWonline » Phone: 250-845-2890 www.vicnews.com www.houston-today.com advertising@houston-today.com

Contractor to provide quote to produce the following product: 2,000 m³ - 16mm Winter Sand 2,500 m³ - 19mm Crush Gravel Site location: District of Houston Walcott Gravel Pit. Terms:

19mm Crush Gravel to conform to MMCD Platinum edition, section 31 05 17 subsection 2.10.2 is acceptable.

THE EXCEPTION TO THE USUAL! • • • •

Unique 2 storey custom built home on large lot.

Close to schools, Duck Pond and walking trails.

2 huge bedrooms upstairs with dormer windows and large entrance way.

Many updates including cork flooring, high efficiency furnance, roof, extra insulation, windows, both bathrooms, trim and paint.

• Oak cabinets with new countertop in spacious kitchen/dinning room.

• Attached 11x26 workshop/storage, spectacular yard features lovely flower beds, vegetable garden, shrubs, trees, greenhouse and lots of parking.

204,900

$

16mm Winter Sand to conform to Ministry of Transportation Schedule “21”

NEW PRI CE!

Quality control to insure products meet the specifications would be the Contractor’s responsibility. All work must be finished by September 30, 2013.

Written quotes to be submitted to the District of Houston Office no later than 4:00 p.m., Friday, August 9, 2013.

Anthony J. Edwards Interim Director of Engineering & Development PO Box 370, 3367 12th St., Houston, BC V0J 1Z0 Telephone: (250) 845-2238, Fax: (250) 845-3429 Email: doh@houston.ca

LAND ACT

FINE ADDRESS TO COME HOME TO! • • • • • • • •

Notice Of Intention to Apply for a Disposition of Crown Land Take notice that ALAN MACDONALD & DAYNA MILES from Vanderhoof, BC, have applied to the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (MFLNRO), Smithers, for a Licence of Occupation- Transportation purposes, situated on Provincial Crown land located UNSURVEYED RIGHT OF WAY OVER DISTRICT LOT 4493 AND THAT PART OF S1/2 OF SE1/4, DISTRICT LOT 4493, RANGE 5 COAST DISTRICT, RANGE 5 COAST DISTRICT, CONTAINING 0.21 HECTARE, MORE OR LESS. The Lands File for this application is 6408569. Written comments concerning this application should be directed to the Nadina Land Officer, MFLNRO, at Nadina Land Officer, Bag 6000 Smithers BC V0J 2N0 Comments will be received by MFLNRO up to August 30, 2013. MFLNRO may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at http://www.arfd.gov.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/index.jsp for more information.

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. For information, contact the Freedom of Information Advisor at Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations’ Office in Smithers.

4 bedroom home on a cul-de-sac close to schools.

Gorgeous updated kitchen features new cabinets, coutertops, flooring and trim.

Island in kitchen with an eating bar.

Patio doors off kitchen to sundeck in private fenced backyard.

Another deck with a hot tub as well.

Laminate floors in kitchen, living room and hallway.

Fridge,stove, dishwasher, microwave, window coverings and hot tub included.

Newer Energy Star N/Gas Furnance.

159,900

$

NEW PRI CE!

WELCOME TO LIFE’S BETTER HALF! • Spacious, executive family home with major renovations.

• Main level extensively renovated in 2012.

• Very open concept with huge, bright kitchen with an island, granite countertops and skylight.

• Beautiful rock pellet fireplace.

• Daylight basement w/large rec room, 4th bedroom, storage and workshop.

• Large lot, fenced yard, 12 x 20 storage shed, carport, paved drive, cul-de-sac location.

• All appliances, window coverings, hot tub and pool table included.

254,900

$

NEW PRI CE!

District of Houston www.houston.ca

The District of Houston is now accepting

Proposals for

CLAUDE PARISH MEMORIAL ARENA CONCESSION LEASE Sealed proposals for the 2013/2014 Concession Lease for the Claude Parish Memorial Arena will be received by the District of Houston up to 4:00 pm on August 16, 2013.

Concession Lease dates are September 15, 2013 to August 29, 2014, with the possibility of extending for a further two seasons.

FAMILY FAVOURED! • • • • • •

Extensively reno’d 4 bedroom, 2 bath home on huge lot in Avalon Subdivision.

All new flooring on main, new countertops in kitchen.

Main bath completely updated.

Bright, spacious basement w/ bedroom, games room & family room.

4 year old woodstove in basement. Tonnes of storage.

16 x 36 sundeck, detached wired workshop, greenhouse.

139,900

$

The Hometown Experts with a World of Experience®

Proposal packages will be available at the District of Houston Municipal Office, 3367 12th Street between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday.

A viewing of the arena lobby and concession areas can be arranged for parties interested in submitting a proposal.

Proposal Deadline: Friday, August 16, 2013 at 4:00 pm.

Selling your house?

Advertise here!

You get a 2 column x 2" display ad (includes photo) running 10 weeks for only

99

$

+ GST

Call 250-845-2890 Email: advertising@houston-today.com

Lia Long 250-845-1147

Re/Max Houston

2436 Poulton Ave., Houston, BC e-mail: remaxhou@telus.net Locally owned and operated

Call 250-845-7325 www.realtor.ca

www.remaxhouston.ca

18

www.houston-today.com

COMMUNITY

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Houston Today

Vacation Bible School programs rocks local kids

Photos submitted

Over 60 local kids came out for the Vacation Bible School program at the Houston Fellowship Baptist Church last week. Kids painted rocks, designed t-shirts and Bible covers and made stress balls, as well as enjoyed snacks, games and Bible study. With flashing lights, black light and a smoke machine in the church sanctuary, kids jumped and danced to music to open and close each of the five days of the program. The VBS theme, ‘Gotta Move,’ taught kids about how having faith means taking action and showing love, peace and kindness.

Top left: Brielle jumps rope out in the sunshine with her Mom Dorene and friend Naomi.

Above: Jacob and Abigail run around under a rainbow parachute, which kids played with in the sunny field last week.

Below: The group of five and six year old’s gather on the stairway for a picture.

Houston Today

NEWS

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

19

Irrigation dam removal threatens fish stocking

By Jackie Lieuwen Houston Today

ON NOW AT YOUR BC BUICK GMC DEALERS. BCBUICKDEALERS.CA 1-800-GM-DRIVE. Buick is a brand of General Motors of Canada. ††/‡/*Offers apply to the purchase of a 2013 Buick Verano (R7A), 2013 Buick Encore (R7A) equipped as described. Freight included ($1,550). License, insurance, registration, PPSA, administration fees and taxes not included. See Dealer for details. Limited time offers which may not be combined with other offers, and are subject to change without notice. Offers apply to qualified retail customers in BC Buick GMC Dealer Marketing Association area only. Dealer trade may be required. GMCL, RBC Royal Bank, TD Auto Financing Services or Scotiabank may modify, extend or terminate this offer in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. ^Based on GM Testing in accordance with approved Transport Canada test methods. Your actual fuel consumption may vary. ††0% purchase financing offered on approved credit by RBC Royal Bank/TD Auto Financing Scotiabank for 60 months on new or demonstrator 2013 Encore. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and or security deposit may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: $10,000 at 0%, the monthly payment is $166 for 60 months. Cost of borrowing is $0, total obligation is $10,000. Finance offer is unconditionally interest free. ‡Based on a 36 month lease for new (demonstrator not eligible) 0.5% advertised on 2013 Buick Verano. Annual kilometer limit of 20,000km, $0.20 per excess kilometer. OAC by FinanciaLinx Corporation. Lease APR may vary depending on down payment/trade. Down payment or trade and security deposit may be required. Other lease options available. +Whichever comes first. See dealer for limited warranty details. ¥For retail customers only. $2,000/$1,000 manufacturer-to-dealer credit available on cash purchases of 2013 Verano/2013 Encore. Dealers may sell for less. Other cash credits available on most models. By selecting lease or financing offers, consumers are foregoing such discounts and incentives which will result in a higher effective interest rate. See participating dealer for details. Offers end July 31, 2013. † Offers available to retail customers in Canada only between July 3, 2013 and July 31, 2013. Price includes freight and PDI but excludes license, insurance, registration, dealer fees, fees associated with filing at movable property registry/PPSA fees, duties, marketing fees and taxes. Dealer may sell for less. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without notice. See participating dealer for details.

If the Irrigation Lake dam was removed, the lake would stop being stocked with fish, unless it was proven to be a closed system.

Irrigation Lake is typically stocked with Coastal Cutthroat Trout once a year but due to a hatchery shortage this year, was

stocked instead with 3,000 Rainbow Trout on June 4.

Brennan Clarke, Public Affairs Officer for the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations says that the fish are stocked for recreation and it doesn’t change the situation with the dam.

“Public safety has to come first. As nice

as recreational fishing is, if there’s a safety issue the province has a responsibility under the Water Act to take steps to ensure public safety,” said Clarke.

Clarke says that if the dam was removed, the lake would no longer be stocked unless it was shown to be a closed system, with no inlets or outlets for fish. “[In a closed

“

system] hatchery fish may be released, but

He says the lake is stocked with sterile

“Public safety has to come first.”

- Public Affairs Officer Brennan Clarke

they cannot escape [or] interact with wild stocks,” said Clarke.

fish, not able to reproduce, because such fish divert energy

into growth and are larger, and it reduces the risk of negative genetic interactions with natural stocks.

“The loss of habitat associated with dam removal would have no impact upon wild sport fish species,” he said.

He adds that if the dam was removed it would lower the lake level, reducing available fish habitat

and the waterbody may be recolonized by native fish species.

Clarke says that the Ministry is working with stakeholders in hopes of securing a new licence holder for the dam, and at press time, no one has stepped up to take on the licence.

“Regardless, the dam will remain in place this summer,” said Clarke.

LOWEST PRICES OF ThE SEASOn SUMMER SELLDOWN 2013 BUICK VERAnO LOWEST CASh PRICE OF ThE SEASOn

22,495

OR LEASE STARTInG FROM

0.5%

*

$

InCLUDES $2,000 In CASh CREDITS

FOR 36 MOnThS‡

¥

OFFER InCLUDES FREIGhT & PDI

• 180 hP 2.4L ECOTEC Engine with Direct Injection • 6-speed Automatic with Driver Shift Control • 17” Multi-Spoke Silver Finish Alloy Wheels ®

46 HIGHWAY MPG 6.2L/100km HWY 9.9L/100km CITY

VERANO LEATHER GROUP SHOWN

2013 BUICK EnCORE LOWEST CASh PRICE OF ThE SEASOn

27,495

$

*

InCLUDES $1,000 In CASh CREDITS¥ OFFER InCLUDES FREIGhT & PDI

• Turbocharged ECOTEC® Engine • Customizable Cargo Space with Front-Passenger and Second-Row Fold Flat Seats • Buick’s First Small Luxury Crossover

OR FInAnCE STARTInG FROM

0%

FOR 60 MOnThS††

47 HIGHWAY MPG 6.0L/100km HWY 8.2L/100km CITY

ENCORE LEATHER GROUP SHOWN

4 YEAR/80,000 KM BUICK NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY+ BCBUICKDEALERS.CA ston Today - March 17, 2010 Call Sullivan Motor Products at 250-845-2244, or visit us at 2760 Yellowhead Highway, Houston. [License #5631]

20

www.houston-today.com

Houston Today

Wednesday, July 24, 2013

M E AT

Western Family Hickory Smoked Bacon Thick Sliced, 1 kg

7

NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED!

99

Your Pantry Fill Specialists

PR O D U C E

Whole Boneless Pork Tenderloin

Corn on the Cob 5 for

2

00

Chicken Legs

3

49

/lb

Back Attached, Skin-On, Superpack 3.51 per kg

Nugget Potatoes

.99

7.69 per kg

1

59

/lb

Whole Watermelons

3

/lb

F R OZ E N

Chapman’s Premium Ice Cream Assorted Varieties 4 litre

99

699

each

F E ATU R E S

Santa Cruz Organic Lemonade

Snapple Iced Tea

Chapman’s Ice Cream Sandwiches

2

9

599

or Assorted Varieties 12x473 ml

Assorted Varieties 946 ml

99

99

Plus Deposit, Plus Eco-Fee

Tony Roma’s Barbecue Sauce Assorted Varieties 525 ml

3

99

Plus Deposit, Plus Eco-Fee

G R E AT BA R G A I N S Western Family Squeeze Mustard 400 ml

2 for

3

00

Dairyland Chocolate Milk

Fraser Valley Butter

5

399

4 litre

99

Western Family Mist Sunscreen 2 Varieties 177 ml

Salted, 454 gram

Western Family Acetominaphine Tablets 250’s

6

3

99

99

Cash & Carry Only

2 Varieties 12x120 ml

Club House Montreal Steak Spice 825 gram

7

99

Value Priced Soft Margarine 3 kg

8

99

Hellmann’s Mayonnaise 2 Varieties 1.42 litre

6

88

Danone Multipack Yogurt 2 Varieties 24x100 gram

999

Jergen’s Liquid Hand Soap

Aussie Shampoo or Conditioner

547

3

Refills, 2 litre

Assorted Varieties 865 ml

99

BULKLEY VALLEY WHOLESALE

Mon. to Thurs. 8 am - 7 pm • Fri. 8 am - 8 pm • Sat. 8 am - 6 pm • Sun. 9 am - 6 pm Prices in effect: July 24 - July 30, 2013

NOW ACCEPTING

3302 Highway 16 Smithers, BC • (250) 847-3313 • 1 (800) 579-3313 • bulkleyvalleywholesale.com