Clearwater Times, December 19, 2013

Christmas Greetings

Times

Thursday, December 19, 2013 ▼ Volume 51 No. 48 ▼ www.clearwatertimes.com ▼ $1.35 GST Included at Newsstands

THE

NORTH THOMPSON

Second Place Best All Round Newspaper Third Place Best Editorial Page All of Canada <1,250 circulation 2013

TRU LIFE:

University seeks input.

See page A3 inside.

Second Place General Excellence B.C. and Yukon <2,000 circulation 2013

Christmas story contest winners announced

Meeting Saint Nick

Keith McNeill Only 52 local youngsters entered the Times' Christmas story contest this year. This is down from 119 last year, 98 in 2011, 83 entries the year before that, and the 102 that entered in 2009.

Main reason for the decrease likely was that we inadvertently timed this year's deadline to coincide with report cards – although we did give an extension.

Despite the decline in quantity we definitely got some quality stories for 2013.

Sarah Oud, who is in Grade 2, took first place in the Kindergarten – Grade 3 division.

Her story told of how a fairy used the last of her pixie dust to take herself and Santa back to the North Pole.

Second place in the Kindergarten – Grade 3 division went to Grade 2 student Joey Ressler.

He told the story of a grumpy old troll who lived in a swamp. A pair of magic skates made him grin.

Third place went to Grade 3 student Sophia Braaten. She wrote about how a little boy named James came to believe in Santa Claus.

Kirsten Regier, a Grade 4 student, took first place in the Grade 4 – 7 division. Her story tells about how a pair of magic skates found by Santa helped a little girl.

Keziah Vollans took second spot with his story about how the people of a town taught a cranky little green goblin the meaning of Christmas. Keziah is in Grade 5.

Number three spot in the Grade 4 – 7 division went to Grade 4 student Hannah MacDonald.

In her story, a goblin named Bob learns from Santa that the true meaning of Christmas is giving to others.

The first place winners will receive $25 for their efforts. Second place is worth $15 while third place will bring in $10. To read the winning entries, turn to pages A14 and A15 inside.

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Mia Preston, age one, compares red suits with Santa Claus during a Breakfast with Santa put on by Success by 6 at the Elks Hall on Sunday, Dec. 15. For another photo, see page A28.

Photo by Keith McNeill

BRUNSWICK SARDINES 00 106g tins

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A2 www.clearwatertimes.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

Trans Mountain files pipeline expansion application with National Energy Board end on end.

According to the company, the application addresses all On Monday Trans Mountain issues previously identified by Pipeline filed a facilities applicathe NEB, including environmention with the National Energy tal, socio-economic, Aboriginal Board (NEB) for authorization engagement, landowner and to build and operate the necespublic consultation, marine risk sary facilities for the company’s assessments and engineering proposed Trans Mountain components of the proposed expansion project.

When printed, the application expansion project. With this filing, the proposed project will is over 15,000 pages and up to undergo a comprehensive pubtwo metres high when stacked lic regulatory review.

“For the past 18 months we have engaged extensively with landowners, Aboriginal groups, comA WESTERN FUNDRAISER FOR THE FARM KIDS SCHOLARSHIP FUND munities and Doors open at 6pm • Bullarama 7pm New Year’s Eve Dance After Bullarama

Times Staff

New Year’s Eve

Bullarama

North Thompson Agriplex, Barriere, B.C. Tickets available at North Thompson Star/Journal (Barriere) Horse Barn (Kamloops)

Bullarama and New Year’s Dance (19+): $50

Bullarama & Dance including Kamloops shuttle: $80

Bullarama only: $30 • 12 and under (Bullarama only): Free Food vendors will be available on site For more information, contact Steven Puhallo at 250-371-7654 or puhallo@gmail.com

NEWS·TALK·SPORTS

stakeholders along the entire proposed expansion route, and marine communities, and have carefully considered the input received during this period of study and dialogue,” said Ian Anderson, president of Kinder Morgan Canada. “Our engagement efforts will continue beyond this filing leading up to the NEB hearing as we consider further input that is critical to our planning on this project.”

The next step in the process will be for the NEB to establish a hearing schedule that corresponds to the federal government’s legislated 15-month review and decision timeframe.

If approvals are received, the expansion is expected to be operational in late 2017.

In spring 2012, Kinder

Morgan Canada announced it would move forward with its proposed plans to expand the existing Trans Mountain pipeline system between Edmonton and Burnaby following strong commitments received from its customers. Thirteen companies in the Canadian producing and oil marketing business signed firm contracts bringing the total volume of committed shippers to approximately 708,000 barrels per day (bpd).

Kinder Morgan Canada received approval of the commercial terms related to the expansion from the NEB in May of this year. The proposed $5.4 billion project will increase capacity on Trans Mountain from approximately 300,000 bpd to 890,000 bpd.

Also according to the company, for 60 years, the 1,150-km Trans Mountain pipeline system has safely and efficiently provided the only West Coast pipeline access for Canadian oil products, including about 90 per cent of the gasoline supplied to the B.C. Interior and south coast of British Columbia.

Trans Mountain Pipeline is operated by Kinder Morgan Canada and owned by Kinder Morgan Energy Partners.

Kinder Morgan is the largest midstream and the fourth largest energy company in North America with a combined enterprise value of approximately $105 billion. It owns an interest in or operates approximately 80,000 miles of pipelines and 180 terminals.

Board elects new chair and vice-chair Times Staff

Two North Thompson representatives have been chosen for the top jobs at the Thompson-Nicola Regional District.

On Thursday, Dec. 12, the TNRD board of directors elected Barriere Mayor Bill Humphreys as its new chair. The election took place during the board’s inau-

gural meeting on in Kamloops.

Humphreys replaces outgoing chair Randy Murray, who had held that position since 2011.

“There is a lot of strength on the board and I’m looking forward to continuing to work to harness that power,” said Humphreys.

“We want to keep a sense of continuity in our actions as we move forward.”

Bill Humphreys

Willow MacDonald

The board also elected Electoral Area “B” (Thompson

Headwaters) director Willow MacDonald as vice-chair.

MacDonald

replaces Ashcroft director Andy Anderson, who had served as vice-chair since 2011.

“I appreciate the confidence the board has in me, and I’m looking forward to continuing to bring the electoral areas and the municipalities together at the TNRD level,” said MacDonald, who represents the Blue River-Avola area.

TNRD reviewing septage equipment bids Keith McNeill

Tim Pennell DIRECTOR, ELECTORAL AREA “A” (WELLS GRAY COUNTRY)

Res: 250-676-9485 • Cell: 250-674-1355 www.wellsgraycountry.ca

Construction of a new septage receiving facility for the upper North Thompson Valley has taken a step forward, according to Tom McNeil, ThompsonNicola Regional District’s capital projects manager.

The tender closed recently for the sewage equipment required for the project.

“This equipment needs to be ordered now because of long delivery times (three to four

months) in order to facility the start of the building and infrastructure this spring,” McNeil said.

“We intend on going out to tender on the complete project in early spring and then building throughout the summer months.

The intention is to have facility operating in the fall of 2014.”

The regional district received five responses to its tender call and is currently reviewing them.

The review will be a very detailed procedure because of the

“When you need us, we’re close by” When a death occurs, I’m here to help you, every step of the way. 24 hours a day, every day.

If you have made pre-arrangements elsewhere and would like to discuss having your local funeral home take care of you, please feel free to call.

300-465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada V2C 2A9 Tel: 250-377-8673 Email: tnrd.director@gmail.com Fax: 250-372-5048 www.tnrd.bc.ca Toll Free in BC: 1-877-377-8673

NORTH THOMPSON FUNERAL SERVICES 73 Taren Drive, Clearwater, BC, V0E 1N2

Call Drake at 250-674-3030 or 1-877-674-3030 day or night.

Drake Smith, MSW (Funeral Director/Owner)

complexity of the equipment, the capital projects manager noted.

The septage receiving facility will be designed to accept sludge pumped from septic tanks in the area.

The sludge is presently being disposed of in pits at the former Clearwater landfill.

Since the closure of the Clearwater landfill nearly one year ago and the opening of the local eco-depot, the TNRD has been working on a replacement for the disposal pits.

SNOW IS HERE! Worried about the snow on your Roof?

Roof Top Snow Removal. call 250-674-3248

Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.clearwatertimes.com A3

Raft River playground reaches Aviva finals Times Staff A playground to be named in memory of teachers Courtney and Skye Buck has reached the finals of Aviva Insurance's community fund contest.

On Friday, the courtyard entry from Raft River Elementary School's PAC was one of the 30 projects from

across Canada picked for final judging.

The project unofficially received more than 23,000 votes in the semifinal round – more than any other entry.

As one of the finalists, the Raft River project automatically receives a minimum of $5,000, with top prize being $150,000.

"It's through voting that Canadians get their say on how we help create positive change across the country," said Debora Hendrickson, senior vice president at Aviva Canada.

"We now rely on the expertise and insight of our panel of impartial judges."

A panel of judges now will review the ideas to decide which

TRU seeks input on five-year plan

projects will receive full funding.

The 2013 Aviva Community Fund judges include Etalk anchor Tanya Kim, David Suzuki Foundation CEO Peter Robinson, Calgary Foundation president and CEO Eva Friesen, president and CEO of United Way Centraide Canada Dr. Jacline Abray-Nyman, and

author and journalist Bruce Sellery.

The winners will be announced on Jan. 28 on CTV's Canada AM. The Courtney and Skye Buck courtyard project is named for two teachers who grew up in Clearwater but who were killed in an automobile accident one year ago.

EVERYONE Will Be Talking About It … DON'T MISS OUT Subscribe today

Check out the local news and opinions

Keith McNeill

Season’s Greetings Season’s Greetings totoAll! All!

Have a happy and safe holiday

Times NORTH THOMPSON

THE

“What do you think TRU's strategic priorities should be for the next five years?”

That was the question Thompson Rivers University president Alan Shaver was asking at a townhall meeting held Friday afternoon, Dec. 13, at the Community Resource Center in Clearwater.

Universities formerly served the elite, he said. Up until the 1960s, most people did not attend.

Clearwater resident Dave Simms (l) talks with TRU president Alan Shaver about the “I was the first per- university's proposed five-year strategic plan during a townhall meeting held last son in my family to go Friday. Photo by Keith to university,” Shaver said. “It was a pretty special change across The president sent out a notice asking people the country.” to nominate candidates to sit on a committee to Now universities want to cater to even more develop the plan. groups, such as First Nations, seniors and careA total of 135 nominations were received and givers. a committee of the university's Senate pared that “It's the next level of accessibility,” said the number down to 30.

TRU president.

What was being sought was diversity, she The university in Kamloops is unique in the said. The committee has representation from stulevel of trades training included in the curricudents, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community lum. at large.

“TRU is a comprehensive university,” Shaver Two surveys were conducted in September, said. “We can't offer everything for everybody, and a series of townhall meetings are being held but we can offer something for everyone.” in the communities that TRU serves.

The university's new academic plan recogAll the information gathered is being summanizes that the challenges of tomorrow are not in rized and placed on the committee's website. today's textbooks, he said.

A first draft of the strategic plan is expected Students need to learn research methods to out in January. deal with problems never seen before.

The final plan should be ready for presenta“They need to develop the ability to think tion to the university's Board of Governors in critically,” Shaver said. “We want students to be March or April. well versed in a multitude of disciplines.”

“If you've learned how to learn, it will carry h&r block 2x4 - Composite with you for the rest of h&r block 2x4 - Composite your life.”

Developing a five-year strategic plan for TRU began last fall, said Lucille Gnanasihamany, associate vice-president for marketing and communications.

250-674-3343 • www.clearwatertimes.com

DISTRICT OF CLEARWATER www.districtofclearwater.com

What’s Happening WHAT’S HAPPENING

Merry Christmas from Mayor Harwood , Councillors & Staff

Fun things to do with your family over the holidays 1. Bake Christmas cookies or candy. Deliver them to shut ins, seniors home, friends and family.

2. Play board games or cards or do a puzzle together.

3. Go Christmas Caroling. Listen to Christmas music as you decorate the tree.

4. Build a snowman, make a snow fort, have a snowball fight.

5. Have a Christmas movie marathon, both old and new movies.

6. Drive around and look at Christmas lights at night, attend a Christmas concert 7. Make homemade Christmas ornaments.

8. Make apple cider or eggnog.

9. Take in some community events.

10. Tell your family how much they mean to you.

District office news  The District office Christmas Hours are as follows: December 24 – 8:30am – 1:00pm December 25-27 – CLOSED - January 1-3 – CLOSED December 30-31 – 8:30am – 4:00pm Regular hours resume on January 6th, 2014.  If you are in need of a “Snow Angel” or wish to be a “Snow Angel” call or drop in to the District office, phone 250.674.2257 or email: admin@docbc.ca .  The District has begun to prepare the 2014-2018 Five Year Financial Plan and is looking for public input. Please forward any suggestions or comments to Sheila Thiessen, Director of Finance at sthiessen@docbc.ca.

Clearwater Transit Bus Clearwater Transit Bus will be offering a second run to Kamloops every week. Starting on January 7th, 2014 the Clearwater Transit Kamloops Bus will be running Tuesday’s and Thursday’s of every week.

Seniors Mobility Workshop - YOU ARE INVITED! Are you interested in learning about the mobility challenges identified by seniors and older adults in Clearwater? Join us for a 1 day workshop on January 17th, 2014 from 10am to 2.30pm at the CRC and hear what’s been learned and give your input on what you see as important as the community “moves” forward into better mobility!

RSVP by January 10th to Shelley Sim. FMI> shelleysim@telus.net or 250 674 3286. Limited to 35 participants so RSVP early!

Road Maintenance Contacts District of Clearwater Municipal Roads The areas within the boundaries are the responsibility of the District of Clearwater and the contractor Borrow Enterprises Ltd. - Please call 250.674.8776 for road maintenance.

The area outside the boundaries are the responsibility of Argo Maintenance including Yellowhead Highway #5 and Clearwater Valley Road – Please call Argo Road Maintenance at 1.800.661.2025 Upcoming Events December 5-21 – Thursday, Friday and Saturday - Christmas Winter Market December 22nd – Skate with Santa Upcoming Meetings of Council January 7th, 2014 – Economic Development/Finance and Audit Committee meeting – 5:00pm January 7th, 2014 – Regular Council meeting – 7:00pm

PAULETTE MILLER

30 Young Road, Clearwater, BC 472 Clearwater Village Road PAULETTE MILLER

674-2360 472 Clearwater Village Road

Civic address: 132 Station Road Box 157, Clearwater,B.C. V0E 1N0 Office hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 - 4:30 District Office Ph: 250-674-2257 • Fax: 250-674-2173 email address: admin@districtofclearwater.com

DISTRICT OF CLEARWATER www.districtofclearwater.com

A4 www.clearwatertimes.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

Opinion

“ Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down..”

- Oprah Winfrey, television host and philanthropist Guest editorial by Bill Humphreys

Rural table wants BC Hydro to come in out of the cold on power for the Valley

Families say thanks to the community of Clearwater Editor, The Times:

On behalf of the Buck and Dekelver families we would like to thank everyone for the support that we have received over the past year.

This support has come in many forms. We appreciate the kind words that people have for us, wherever we go.

We are astonished by the voting support that the Raft River PAC has received for their Aviva project and ecstatic that it has made it into the final round. We are grateful to the PAC for suggesting that Courtney and Skye be remembered in this project.

We are also thankful for the assistance and guidance that we received

BC Press Council

The Times 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 BC Press Council.

Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to BC Press Council, 210 Selby St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2R2 For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org

Times THE

NORTH THOMPSON

www.clearwatertimes.com Established September 23, 1964 Member, BC Press Council

in planning and building the cross memorial by the river at the pull out on Wolf’s Corner. Many thanks go to: Bart Chenuz, Jim Zsednai, John Walden and the TRU welding students at Clearwater Secondary School, the CSS shop classes, Darren Coates, Kamloops Powder Coating, Daniel Boudreau, Cal and Josh Traub, Monty and Jarius Bromley, On Call Service Center and Wadlegger Logging. We hope that we have not missed anyone.

The support we have received is the hidden value of living in this community.

Brent and Tracy Buck Rick and Cathy Dekelver

Clothes Co. still looking for building Editor, The Times:

The Clothes Co. Thrift Shop would like to thank the community for its support throughout the years. Also the volunteer staff and friends for their team effort in closing the shop.

We are still looking for another building and are hoping to find one by spring. Contact number is 250-6743212.

Wishing each and everyone a happy holiday season and a healthy New Year.

Mary Stewart and staff

Clothes Co. Thrift Shop

Recently the District of Barriere received a copy of a letter sent by Dag Sharman, community relations manager at BC Hydro, to Minister Terry Lake, responding to Minister Lake’s letter around the power supply to the North Thompson Valley.

In the letter Mr. Sharman mentions that the reliability of the power supply here in the Valley is below the provincial average. Mr. Sharman goes on to say that B.C. Hydro must balance the needs of all BC Hydro customers in determining the allocation of capital resources and the resultant impact on customer rates. Mr. Sharman also touches on the possibility that an increase to the available capacity is being studied.

So, is BC Hydro saying that providing reliable hydro power at a capacity level that will not only reliably service the current needs of the residents, but one that will allow for the future growth our rural communities need to survive is not as important as building an additional service to areas like the Lower Mainland?

The Lower Mainland has natural gas as an alternative power supply for things like heat. Heat is a good thing in the winter. The Lower Mainland also has a number of hospitals and homes for seniors.

Here in the Valley we are participating in the provincial health plan and encouraging our seniors to stay in their homes as long as they can. We want them to be close to family and friends in their sunset years.

It appears though that when the power goes out, which it does regularly, the sun is about the only thing that will be heating their homes.

Remember, almost all heating units require hydro power to operate.

I would hate to think of the fallout in public

opinion towards BC Hydro if there is a power outage and we find a senior frozen in their home clutching their recent hydro bill, trying to phone the outage number on their cordless phone that won’t work when the power is out.

Perhaps we will find a senior stuck to the ice on the walkway to the woodshed after they have fallen trying to get firewood. Their family thought they had things arranged when they bought that alarm that calls when the senior falls. Little did they know the alarm needs power to stay charged so it can make the call when the senior cannot.

About that time it would look like we should have bundled gramps or grandma off to the seniors home in the city so they can live out their days with a bunch of strangers after having to give away their dog and saying goodbye to all their friends and neighbours that they have known over a lifetime in our rural community.

To add to the joy, we can bundle the kids up and get out on the highway to see if we can survive another trip to town for a visit.

If we survive the frustrated drivers passing on blind corners, and the trucks trying to run us over, we can all enjoy visiting with our loved ones and hear how much they like their cell, I mean room.

The fact that Minister Lake is still trying to get BC Hydro to come to the table and seek a solution gives me some hope.

Rural communities are an important part of the economy in B.C., and need support to prosper and grow. Both of our local MLAs, Ministers Lake and Stone, have been working on solutions to the problems.

There is a solution to every problem. Working together we can find the answers.

— Bill Humphreys is the mayor of Barriere

Roundabout not improve safety Editor, The Times:

“Have you bought a false painting Toby? You will find the more you paid for it the less likely you are to doubt it's authenticity.” George Smiley to Toby Esterhase — John Le Carre's Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Syp. Perhaps due to the machinations of my somewhat twisted mind this was the first thought that overwhelmed me after reading the headline (Times Nov. 21, 2013): “New roundabout improves safety and access to Wells Gray Park.”

Access to the park? Maybe.

Improved safety? Now that is questionable.

A short while back (Nov. 11 to be more precise) a woman whose name I don't know but should, who obviously knows exactly who I am asked why I had never written about the Clearwater roundabout.

My reply went something like this — I had to see the roundabout in use to really have an opinion on it.

Beside that there were far more important 'fish to fry,' global warming, the looming destructiveness of fracking, etc.

The roundabout was, according to my own arrogance, simply beneath me.

No longer. Having just

about been sideswiped by a big rig two days running, that was coming from the Jasper direction I have plenty so say.

I don't want to render a final judgment on the roundabout just yet, but it appears fairly obvious that some changes have to be made.

Some stop signs perhaps? It is funny how almost being T-boned two days in a row can change one's perspective on things.

One can always buy a kindergarten girl's crayon scribblings. Just don't pretend that it is a Picasso!

Dennis Peacock Clearwater, B.C.

74 young Road, Unit 14 Brookfield Mall, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N2 Phone: 250-674-3343 Fax: 250-674-3410 Email: newsroom@clearwatertimes.com www.clearwatertimes.com

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Publisher: Al Kirkwood Editor: Keith McNeill Office manager: Yevonne Cline

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

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Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.clearwatertimes.com A5

Question of the Week

?

Do you believe in Santa Claus?

Denise Bryce (with Colin, Brendan Campbell and Sophia): Of course, who doesn't believe in Santa. I believe in the magic of Christmas.

Dennis Peacock:

No, he's another mystical being that no one can prove exists, like God or Allah or any of the other gods ... but he's harmless

Heather Adamson (with Lily and Weston):

Oh, absolutely he is real. When I was a little girl I heard reindeer on the roof.

Raine Celesta (with Brenda Celesta):

Tim Pennell:

Yes, I wrote Santa a letter and he messaged back.

Of course. Santa still comes to my house when I've been good.

Centralized body removal wrong for this community Editor's Note: The following letter to regional coroner Larry Marzinzik is in response to a letter to the editor, “Coroners Service replies to body removal concerns,” that ran in our Dec. 12 issue –

Mr. Marzinzik:

Thank you for your letter of Dec. 4. In it you stated that Coroners Service has been traditionally provided by coroners based in Kamloops. It is my understanding that tradition start-

ed just a couple of years ago when the local coroner retired. More recently coroner service has been provided from 100 Mile House. I am curious to know to whom it is not “feasible” nor “desirable” that a coroner be located in the North Thompson?

I am aware that the BC Coroners Service is a publicly funded service and I can’t imagine a more efficient and effective way to handle the removal of bodies than by our local funeral home. I am interested in viewing the pro-

posed saving in dollar figures that this contract change will cause, for that in my mind must be what the change in service is all about.

With the BC government supporting the development of small business in rural communities it surprises me that the business aspect alone would not be protected. The contract area is far too large for our local funeral home to service. The service area previous to the change in contract last May was large enough to support our local business. And what about the

The bell curve of probability Editor, the Times;

Re: “Rambling Man should say why he says what he says” in Dec. 12 issue of the Times.

Keith, old buddy, old pal, old friend. You’re right! I think they’re on to us, but not for the reasons you believe! You see, everyone thinks I’m a grumpy old man who wants to put down or browbeat our editor every chance he gets. Forget the ol’ buddy, ol’ pal crap; I do consider you an old friend.

You’re a very hardworking pillar of the community who strives for the betterment of mankind.

For this reason, I would like to nominate Keith McNeill for Clearwater’s Citizen of the Year.

(Damn, I hate it when I get soft and mushy at Christmastime!).

Now, back to my “apparent rebuttal!” You say I don’t really present serious counterarguments. I say I do, but your tunnel vision doesn’t allow you to recognize them. You and many others are so caught up in the Suzuki, Gore, Lovelock, Hansen hype that you can’t see the forest for the trees! Now I see you’ve added another “also ran scientist” to your list: Weitzman.

You also added the bell curve of probability. You go on to say it’s the “severe events in the tails of the bell curve that you have to watch out for.” I once read a

book by a French author titled “The Tail of The Belle”! Several years later, the author wrote a sequel about the same madame who worked the streets of Paris and Marseille. In the novel, the belle exposed and destroyed many of her clients who were judges, lawyers, and politicians!

I think there may have been some climate-change scientists also, but nobody cared about them back then! The name of the sequel was “The Tail of Two Cities”!

Keith, if you are going to quote me, please don’t change my quote. You said, regarding the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, “According to National Geographic, it is likely higher now than it has been for 3 million years. The Rambling Man’s reply, “baloney.” Actually, I said, “This is just verbal diarrhea”. If that, to you, is the same as baloney, I strongly suggest you try buying your processed meats at a different deli!

The number of respondents to your on-line petition is higher than I expected. I thought probably two people would respond: yourself and James Hansen. I’d like to suggest that you talk to Dr. Bob about the availability of a cure for your problem. If none exists, try to find the other 58 people who signed your peti-

tion. Maybe you can get a cut rate on group therapy!

In my last letter to you, I gave some statistics. Your tunnel vision allowed you to ignore them but actually they are serious counter-arguments, and here are two more: 1. Last week, Antarctica reported the lowest temperature ever recorded: -93 C. 2. This year, Arctic sea ice didn’t experience rapid melting as it has in past years.

In closing, Keith, I’d like to say your heart is in the right place but another tax isn’t the answer. One in five kids in B.C. lives in poverty. We should lobby the government to start looking after the young, the sick, and the elderly, instead of pandering to corporate friends.

The Liberal government’s “Go Green” program has nothing to do with the air we breathe. It’s about dollars leaving your wallet!

The closest thing Clearwater has seen regarding global warming is Santa Claus arriving by fire truck at the Christmas tree light-up.

Rumour has it that Rudolf got all mixed up at the roundabout and ended up in Clearwater, Florida!

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Jim Lamberton The Rambling Man

area between Clearwater and Blue River? Folk living in that region are entitled to service. The drive from Blue River to Prince George is approximately four hours. How can a service be expected to be delivered within an hour and a half to Blue River? Perhaps the terms of the contract that covers that area is different?

The main point of my original concern with the change in the body removal contract was one of social concern. Our local funeral home owner is a vital part

of our community. Mr. Smith serves on many boards and supports the work of many societies, business and local events here in Clearwater. He is a personable and civic minded member of our community. I for one have come to appreciate his care and concern for the living as well as for those who have passed on in our community.

Please reconsider this contract.

It is wrong for our community in so many ways.

Sandra Holmes Clearwater, B.C.

www.clearwatertimes.com

Happy Holidays to all golfers and non golfers

t f i G e h t Give f Golf o

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A6 www.clearwatertimes.com

40

YEARS AGO: The three bands of School District 26 held their first-ever concert before a standing-room only crowd. Band master Sinclair had experienced trouble as instruments had been late arriving. Band was here to stay, said Sinclair.

Bridge problems brought the following letter to Times columnist Art Jeffery: Dear Art, Hi! I just want to say sorry to all the Clearwater residents who wanted a new bridge. We couldn’t get

Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

the North Pole local of the Brotherhood of Elves and Santa’s Helper to agree to the overtime contract needed to assemble the bridge. The problem was compounded by an energy crisis we are experiencing here.

The reindeer have not been getting the proper amount of hay and would have been too weak to tow it behind the sleigh as some of you suggested.

Perhaps if your Chamber of Commerce promoted a “pioneer” image the old bridge might become a tourist

Season’s Greeting & Happy Holidays from all of us at North Valley Supply

HISTORICAL Perspective

BACK IN TIME attraction. If peanuts and popcorn were sold during the long lineups at the bridge, you might be able to raise enough money to buy a new one.

Sincerely, Santa Claus.

35

YEARS AGO: The CID was having trouble with call-outs after regular working hours. Problems often stemmed from inadequate insulation covering the customers’ water systems.

Pete Penner drove Santa Claus to the Sportsman Café in a sled pulled by a snowmobile. More than 250 children sat on Santa’s knee.

30

YEARS AGO: School District 26 superintendent Bill

Jory spoke with North Thompson Teachers’ Association regarding how three days of instruction lost during a strike would be made up.

25

YEARS AGO: New general manager at Clearwater Timber Products for Slocan Forest Products was Frank Mattus, formerly with International Forest Products. He took over from Peter Barry.

20

YEARS AGO: There should be a regionally-based fire protection system in B.C. to protect homes, said Regional Fire commissioner Bob Hickey.

Birch Island should have a firehall to fill the void between the Clearwater and Vavenby

fire departments.

15

YEARS AGO: About 40 workers from Weyerhaeuser’s Merritt and Lumby operations toured Vavenby. The sawmills in their respective communities were to be cut back or close the following February.

The NDP government had cheated B.C.’s resource communities when it transferred $49 million from the Natural Resource Communities Fund to general revenue, said MLA Kevin Krueger.

The fund received 0.5 per cent of all natural resource taxes to help resource communities.

10

YEARS AGO: Short-term goals

established during a community-tocommunity forum included opening a large, portable Carrier mill at Louis Creek, introduction of an FM radio station to provide tourist information for travellers, establishment of a community forest and developing an official North Thompson Economic Plan.

Blue River heli-ski operator Mike Wiegele attended a Clearwater Ski Club executive meeting to present the group with a $5,000 cheque. In return for the support, Wiegele said he would like to see ski instruction and ski racing programs at the ski hill, particularly for youngsters from Blue River.

Ronaye Elliot, for the job.

Chilly weather didn't stop a large crowd of people from supporting the 15th annual Christmas Hamper Coffeehouse. The benefit raised over $2,500 for Clearwater Food Bank.

Due to the slumping softwood lumber industry, Gilbert Smith Forest Products Ltd. shut down its sawmill until until Jan. 20 to reduce inventory.

Students at Blue River Elementary School enjoyed meeting hockey hero Trevor Linden. Recently retired from the Vancouver Canucks hockey team, Linden was spending time at Mike Wiegele's Helicopter Skiing resort.

YEARS AGO: A household thermometer located near the center of Clearwater showed temperatures approaching -30C. John Harwood was the new ThompsonNicola Regional District vice-chair. Harwood beat out two other directors, John Taylor and

YEAR AGO: Choirs from Clearwater and Barriere performed a concert called Peace Around the World in both communities. Coach was Leah Jones.

Wells Gray Outdoor Club announced that it was reviving the Wells Gray Birchleg.

5

1

Lights to Remember Gord Mayer Art Mayer Dot Braaten Susan Allenby Sarah Louise Butch Treseng Robynn Sutton My Dog “Bubba” My Mom “Paula” Earl Sherk Don Sherk Irene Perry Georgina Haggerty Dave Cooper Loisann Sonneson Jody Gardner My Loving daughter “Jody” Gordon McCracken Grace Thompson Harold Klein Per Andersen Xavier Demaeght Neil Fitzsimmons Frances Gerspacher Sylvia Lowe My Mom “ Kay” Garwin Gebert Nina June Inez Collison Bob Collison Enid Colborne Sherman Colborne Steve Graham Jacqueline Downs Bob Coldwell Dad Mum George Jennie Des Laura Negrave Ed Morris Beverly Wilson Jerry Grant Peggy Grant Gayle Proud Margaret May Veronica Glenn

Rose Bergeron Armand Bergeron Mable Bazley Albert Bazley My Mom “ Rita” Lois Mumford Marjorie Snyder Slim Snyder Inez Elliot “Smile” Duane Sunderman Joan Unterschultz Lloyd Sunderman Marlow Koop To all my loved Ones “Mom” Eileen Miller Gil Genier Mike Toma Wallace Colborne Lloyd Colborne Dennis Gouldhawke Thelma Beatty Mat Schulte Peter Cook Margaret Cook “ Betty” Helen Wiens Ivan Rea Lorette Chase Cleon Strickland Helen Graffunder Gerald Schurman Gertrude Kennedy Heavenly Customers Joey Whitford Maria Smycniuk Alex Smycniuk “ Blackie” Clark Steve Graham Astrid & Pete William Fergus Grandpa Stearns Grandma Stearns Larry Wurm Frank DeNeef Thomas Cooper Joan Baker William H Baker Blanche Nyberg Wayne Anderson

Kerry Walchuk Bill & Kay DuBois Bud & Ivy Callaghan Joyce Short Ruby Stevens Milna Young Dustin Graffunder Eileen Miller Kay Cummings Vijay Bachhal Elisa Hamm Elly Agar T&P Heisterman Helen Smith Linda Sim Ladislay Hendrich Jan Galvin Edna Christensen Ruby Hills Christopher Corrigan Mary Patricia Robson John Ochman Rose Seemann Mom & Dad Rempel Trish Tinker Marie-Louise Renata Bill Lenny Billie Lenny Ian Lenny Cheryl Lenny Derrick Lenny Dad Crombie Eileen Bartlett Bev Scott All our fallen VETS Gordon Lenny Ashlee Joly The Handy Family Terry Carter Agnes MacGregor Margaret Brade Nooks Wurm Marie Haggerty Myrna Morton Gramma Parman Ake Lori Pelton Chad Schapansky

Clearwater & District Hospice Society would like to send out HUGE Thank you to

Lois-Ann Sonneson Joseph Parker Dunbar DeeDee Null Edith Haywood Bob Cuming Irene Cuming Doreen Lloyd Frank Pastorek Alan Pastorek Connie Pastorek Mary Fennes Bob Cuming Al Doucette Sharon Cusworth Henry Kitzinger Ric Kitzinger Bill & Willie Sedgwick Emily Davies Bill McKeown Ellen Veach Evelyn & Lyle Leonard Bailey Alyss Miller Wendy Graffunder Alfred Graffunder Enrico Piscia Marie Piscia Dale Newberry Helen Stasyk Chris Ferguson Mickell Downey-Richter Lou Greffard Ray Seridick George Holmes Merton Holmes Brad Greffard Mum & Uncle Glen Justin Price Mark Harrington Rob Price

Noleen Hodder Charles & Shirley Hovey Broder/Cooley Families John McIntyre Jeremy Fontaine Ben Downey Keith Graffunder Marlene Wheeler Micheal Porfon Metz Bill Hutchison Ella Hutchison Hazel Small Reg Small

Clearwater Lodge • Home Hardware • Multimedia Presentations • Clearwater Strings • Blue Loon Grill • Erica’s Everything Emporium • Safety Mart • Joan Mumford, Anita Bazley, Maureen Allen & Fay McCracken • Hospice Members for the Cookies / Selling of tickets

Helping to fill Christmas hampers Wells Gray Country (Area A) director Tim Pennell presents at $1,500 grant from Thompson-Nicola Regional District to Patrick Stanley of Clearwater and District Food Bank recently. Photo submitted

Happy Holidays from all of us at Clearwater Country Inn & RV Park

Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.clearwatertimes.com A7

MP McLeod invites constituents to "Have your say" on Canada's 150th birthday celebrations Submitted OTTAWA - Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson- Cariboo, is seeking Canadians’ views on how they would like to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation.

“As we plan for Canada’s 150th anniversary, we want a celebration that reflects who we are as Canadians, where we came from, and what we can give back,” said McLeod. “I invite

all constituents in KamloopsThompson-Cariboo to tell us how they would like to celebrate in 2017.”

“For many Canadians, this will be their first opportunity to participate in a major milestone celebration. For those of us who witnessed or participated in the centennial celebrations in 1967, this will mark 50 years since that important commemoration,” stated McLeod.

The government of Canada will undertake extensive con-

sultations, with meetings being planned throughout Canada.

At the same time, Canadians are invited to participate in the consultations through an online questionnaire at Canada.ca/150 or Canada150.gc.ca.

Over the next four years, on the Road to 2017, celebrations will mark key historic milestones that have defined our country.

In 2014, commemorations will include the centennial of the start of the First World War, the 75th anniversary of the start of

the Second World War, the bicentennial of Sir George-Étienne Cartier’s birth and the 150th anniversary of the Charlottetown and Québec Conferences.

To learn more about the commemorations leading up to Canada 150 and to participate in the online forum visit Canada. ca/150 or Canada150.gc.ca.

Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for KamloopsThompson- Cariboo

Hospital board approves provisional budget Submitted The Thompson Regional Hospital District board of directors has approved the 2014 provisional budget.

Total expenditures for 2014 have been budgeted at $18.6 million, which is up approximately $1.5 million from 2013. Included in the 2014 expenditures is partial funding for the Clinical Services Building at Royal Inland Hospital along with provisions for capital projects, minor equipment and carry forward projects.

The 2014 residential tax rate for the TRHD will increase an average of $21 per residential household assessment, up to $127 from $106 in 2013.

The increase in the tax rate is part of a strategy to build up a down-payment towards the construction of RIH’s Clinical Services Building and Parkade, and the Surgical Tower. These two projects are expected to cost approximately $400 million.

The TRHD also approved a bylaw for cost-sharing ($774,356 of $1,935,890) with Interior Health Authority (IHA) for minor equipment in facilities within Kamloops (RIH), Ashcroft, Barriere, Chase, Clearwater, Lillooet, Logan Lake, Lytton and Merritt. Each fall IHA presents a list of minor equipment with which they would

BC Lions coming to CSS Times Staff Changes That Heal has announced that the BC Lions have chosen to bring their “Be More Than a Bystander” program to Clearwater Secondary School.

This community will be one of only 10 communities outside of the Lower Mainland the program will visit in 2014.

The “Be More Than a Bystander” program is designed to teach youth that violence against women and girls is not acceptable, and that everyone can play a role in promoting healthy relationships and creating more respectful, peaceful schools and communities.

Changes That Heal is a new action group here in

May your home be filled with peace and joy this holiday season!

Clearwater that is dedicated to bring awareness to the subject of gender-based violence in order to make our community a safer place for everyone.

If you are interested in joining the group and being part of the solution, please call Wendy at 250.674.0049.

This group is open to women, men and youth.

like to cost share with the TRHD at 40 per cent.

The boundaries of Thompson Regional Hospital District are similar to but not identical with ThompsonNicola Regional District, and the hospital district board is essentially the same as the TNRD board.

Holiday Greetings

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Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

B.C. sets new records for lumber exports to China have broken a new record, Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Minister Thomson announced Friday.

"It's encouraging to see the value of VICTORIA – After 10 months, the lumber exports to our top three marvalue of B.C.'s softwood lumber exports kets have significantly increased over recent years. I'm especially Willow Macdonald thrilled that we've again broken DIRECTOR, ELECTORAL AREA “B” new records in China – it's fur(THOMPSON HEADWATERS) ther evidence that all our hard Phone: 250-674-7303 work in that market is paying off,” Thompson said.

"The increased demand for B.C.'s softwood lumber products Email: willowmacdonald.tnrd@gmail.com translates to job security in B.C.'s

Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations

mills and B.C.'s woods."

To the end of October 2013, the value of total softwood lumber exports to China reached $1.17 billion – exceeding the previous record set in 2011 when softwood lumber exports to China totalled $1.1 billion.

B.C.'s October shipments of lumber to China also broke new records for monthly volume (865,000 cubic metres) and value ($145.5 million).

The value of lumber exports to Japan and the U.S. to the end of October also have surpassed recent years' totals.

Softwood lumber exports to the U.S. are

at $2.13 billion (compared to $2 billion for all of 2012), and to Japan at $703 million (compared to $674 million for all of 2012). The U.S., China and Japan are B.C.'s top three markets for softwood lumber.

The increase in value reflects both higher shipment volumes to these markets in 2013 as well as increased lumber prices.

Thomson led a trade mission of over 25 senior forestry executives to Japan and China in October. Premier Christy Clark returned from her 2013 Jobs and Trade Mission to Asia just last week.

300 - 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada V2C 2A9 Tel: (250) 377-8673 Fax: (250) 372-5048

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A semi sits jack-knifed in the parking area next to the Wells Gray Inn by Highway 5 on Thursday, Dec. 12.

The driver appears to have stopped for a rest and then had his rig slide backwards on the hidden ice.

Photo by Keith McNeill

B.C. closing the gap on overdue penalties During the reporting period from 2004 to 2012, more than 80 per cent of the 1,540 court convictions were paid. While the majority of the VICTORIA – The provincial government is number of fines was paid, this only represents 40 naming names and taking away privileges as part per cent of the $1.9 million owed. of a new strategy aimed at increasing the collecCurrently, $1.14 million remains outstanding tion rate of overdue environmental court penalties, to the province and more than $400,000 to the announced Environment Minister Mary Polak.

Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation.

In a report released Nov. 11, Closing the Gap, This new strategy is the first of its kind in the province publicly names the 18 businesses and North America. The goal is to increase the col155 individuals with overdue environmental court lection rate of overdue environmental court penpenalties owing to the province or to the Habitat alties from 40 per cent to an aggressive target of Conservation Trust Foundation.

95 per cent by June 2014.

Letters are being sent to those identified with A follow-up report will be issued in June 2014 fishing and hunting licences revoking these privileges. Once paid in full, these individuals will again to highlight the progress made in collecting the overdue environmental court penalties. This be eligible to obtain licences or permits. The ministry will be updating the list at the end of January will supplement the Quarterly Environmental Enforcement Summaries, which name indi2014. viduals and businesses subject to enforcement actions, and the Environmental We would like to Violations Database, thank all our friends a searchable catalogue and customers and of all enforcement actions published wish you a since 2006.

Great New Year!

Closing the Gap: A Special Report on Overdue from your friends at Environmental Court Penalties (2004-2012), can be viewed at: www.env.gov.bc.ca/ True Service main/compliancereporting/docs/clos511 E. Yellowhead Hwy., Clearwater ing-the-gap.pdf 674-3388 250-674-3388

Ministry of Environment

To all our Clients and Employers from the staff at

Clearwater Employment Services Centre WorkBC Stat Holiday Closures Wed. Dec. 25 Christmas Day Thurs. Dec. 26 Boxing Day Wed. Jan. 1 New Years day

Free Coffee is on! December - February

_________________________________________________ __________________________ _ CLEARWATER EMPLOYMENT SERVICES CENTRE 58A Young Road, Clearwater BC V0E 1N2 Phone: 250- 674-2928 Fax: 250- 674-2938 Hours of operation: Monday through Friday 8:00 – 4:00 Email: info@clearwateremployment.ca www.clearwateremployment.ca Operated by Yellowhead Community Services

The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by The Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.

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Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.clearwatertimes.com A9

Grant supports local SAR group Submitted Wells Gray Search and Rescue Society is receiving a Community Gaming Grant of $26,000 to help the organization continue to offer important public safety services to the community.

“This organization is volunteer-driven, with members who routinely risk their own safety to protect others. We thank them for their dedication,” says KamloopsNorth Thompson MLA Terry Lake. “These services can be costly, and this grant will help the society continue to assist locals and visitors who find themselves in danger.”

These grants are awarded

Light up the lake Clearwater councillors Shelley Sim and Jon Kreke install Christmas lights on top of the beachhouse at Dutch Lake on Friday. “It looks a little rough during the day but at night, it was pretty,” said Sim. “It would be nice if this was expanded on for next year. I would LOVE to see lights in the trees, Santa on the roof with trees and snowmen etc. It could be super fun and carried on through the town.” Marg Sunderman and Dutch Lake Resort donated the lights. Students at Clearwater Secondary School made the sign.

Photo by Keith McNeill

RCMP Road Check Clearwater RCMP and Central Interior Traffic Services conducted a road check on Highway 5 at Park Drive in Clearwater on Saturday, Dec. 7. Members were taking part in National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day. Across Canada there were more than 800 check-stops where approximately 80,000 vehicles were screened for drivers exhibiting signs of impairment. The enforcement day resulted in 127 charges for impaired driving by alcohol and four charges for impaired driving by drugs, as well as 338 roadside licence suspensions or prohibitions for alcohol and/or drugs.

Locally in Clearwater approximately 100 vehicles were checked. One driver was issued a violation ticket for having no drivers licence, a 24-hour prohibition for alcohol was issued/ vehicle impounded and two other drivers were served suspension and prohibition notices.

Motor vehicle incidents During the past week, Clearwater RCMP have attended nine motor vehicle collisions with a few resulting in personal injuries.

RCMP advise drivers to slow down and use more caution when traveling on the roadways

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under the Public Safety category of the Community Gaming Grant Program, which allows non-profit organizations to apply for provincial gaming revenues. Gaming Grants are also awarded in the categories of Sport, Human and Social Services, Environment, and Arts and Culture.

In the 2012/13 fiscal year, the B.C. government distributed a total of $135 million in gaming grants for eligible community programs and services.

For organizations interested in applying for Community Gaming Grants, full application information can be found at www.pssg. gov.bc.ca/gaming.

Sending a season filled with cheer for you Sending seasonyou of cheer for you and a everyone hold dear!

andChristmas everyone you holdcheer dear!

Merry Happy New Year!

Sending a seasonand filled with for you

and everyone you hold dear!

A bigail’s Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Essential Services

Ph: 250-587-6373 • Toll Free 1-888-587-3576

1-800-222-TIPS Clearwater RCMP Report this winter.

Allow for more travel time to get to your destination. Use caution when passing other motorists that may be pulled over along the sides of the roadways.

Holiday reminder During this Holiday Season, the Clearwater RCMP and Central Interior Traffic Services urge drivers to ensure they have a safe ride home from planned holiday festivities and to take your turn as a designated driver for your family and friends.

During December, an average of five people are killed in B.C. in crashes involving impaired driving.

MERRY CHRISTMAS from Cal’s Corner and family

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Our baskets are full of good wishes baskets for aOur season of are full of good wishes cheer to all of our of cheer to all of our for a season patrons and patrons friends.

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Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

Christmas stories The Magic Skates Santa found some magic ice skates.

He put them on to see if they would fit and they did fit so Christmas is here again. And everybody was happy again.

bear.

Next Christmas there was something different. There was no present under the tree. The goblin was very sad, but when the goblins family lived happily ever after.

By Colton Witts, By Philipp Woedlinger, Grade 2 Grade 2

Christmas Once there was a grumpy green goblin and an elf. The goblin jumped on the elf but the elf had a toy in his hand. The goblin jumped off the elf handed the toy to the goblin. He went and showed it to his dad.

The green goblin was not a grumpy goblin. He was a happy goblin. then the goblins family put up a Christmas tree. The next day there was a present under there tree and it was a teddy

The Magic Ice Skates One day Santa was trudging along the outside of the workshop when he stumbled upon a weird pair of ice skates. The skates said, “Worlds awesomest skates!”

Santa shouted “Wow these look epic!” On the sides there were hockey sticks and flames.

Santa asked the head elf if any children asked for skates and the elf replied, “The only children that

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wanted skates are already packed away in the sled.”

Santa left and he wondered if the skates fit him? Santa tried on the skates but they looked way too small but they adjusted themselves to Santa's feet.

Santa went to a ice patch and tried to skate but he fell down.

He got up again and this time he was skating like a pro! The blades were razor sharp so they cut the ice and Santa fell in!

What Santa thought was a hour Santa finally got out.

The elves ran outside and told Santa that those skates were for a little boy named Joseph. The elves took the skates from Santa and then wrapped them up, then put them in the sleigh and everyone had a super awesome Christmas.

Cameron Chayer, Grade 5

The Magic Ice Skates One cold winter day Santa was checking on the elves to see how the toys were coming along. He stopped at one of the elves because he noticed

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something underneath the elf's chair. Santa bent down and picked up the package. To his surprise they were a pair of very odd looking skates. He brought them outside to a frozen lake.

Even though Santa couldn't skate he put them on and stepped onto the ice.

The skates started to glow and Santa started to do figure eights around the lake.

While he was skating he thought that the skates were magic because his feet were way too big to be able to fit skates that looked so small. Santa stopped and took off the skates.

They were still glowing. One of the elves trudged through the snow and said, “Santa these skates are magic so they can fit any size feet and they can help anyone who wants to skate so that they can. He decided to wrap them up and give them to a little girl who dreamed of being a figure skater but she didn't have any skates.

Santa used magic to turn the ice skates into figure skates.

Finally it was time to leave and Santa was ready. He had everything he needed.

After a little while he approached the little girl Lavender's house. He slid down the chimney very qui-

etly hoping nobody would hear him. Santa tip toed towards the Christmas tree.

Suddenly he heard stairs creaking. He tried to put the presents under the tree quickly but just then he saw slippers coming down the stairs.

Santa quickly rolled behind the tree just as Lavender approached the bottom of the stairs. She noticed Santa's toy sack laying beside the tree.

Suddenly she saw a hand reach out from behind the tree and grab the sack.

Santa quickly and silently put the rest of Lavender's presents under the tree.

Lavender walked around the tree while Santa crept in front of her but far enough ahead so that Lavender couldn't see him. Finally Santa was closest to the fireplace and he silently ran to the fireplace and went up and out of the chimney.

Now it was Christmas morning and Lavender ran as fast as she could down the stairs. She didn't run toward her stocking but towards the Christmas tree. Once she had opened all her presents she noticed a present way behind the tree. Lavender crawled under the tree and grabbed the package that was wrapped in wrapping paper

that had figure skates all over it.

She opened them up, her mouth dropped open and she ran upstairs and got dressed and ran back down. She was wearing the figure skater outfit that Santa had also gave her.

She got on her boots and ran outside to the frozen lake.

Lavender pulled off her boots and put on the skates. She stepped onto the ice and started skating.

Suddenly her parents called her in and they went to the ice rink.

After a few years she had become the best figure skater in the whole town.

Katelynne Christensen, Grade 4

The Magic Ice Skates One day Santa found a pair of skates in the middle of nowhere. He went back to the house.

He was going to the hockey game. He played for one year.

This is his second year in the NHL.

By Zackrey Duff, Grade 2

How the Goblin Found Christmas One snowy winter night on the day before Christmas Eve a Goblin didn’t find

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Christmas. But then one day he found out he lived in the woods so he walked to one of the towns.

And on Christmas the Goblin woke up early. He saw Santa and his reindeer. And that’s how he found Christmas.

By Seth Vollans, Grade 2

The Magic Ice Skates Hi, my name is Santa and I have magic ice skates.

I do not have to go slow because the ice skates make me fast.

But my reindeer are gone.

By Rogue Schley, Grade 2

The Magic Ice Skates Once there was a little old house in the middle of the North Pole. Santa lived in that house.

One day Santa went down to the ice rink and out the corner of his eye he saw a pair of ice skates all alone. He walked over, looked around, picked up the ice skates and ran home.

The next day Santa went down to the ice rink, put the skates on and got on to the ice. He leaped into the air. The skates grew wings and Santa started to fly. Santa flew home.

While Santa was skating, the elves had saddled the reindeer up. The reindeer got spooked and slay hit the window and the sleigh broke. Santa sat in his chair and a light bulb came to him.

The skates. yes I can use my skates.

Christmas is tomorrow. He ran and got his bag put his skates on and went to deliver the presents.

By Rose Thon, Grade 4

Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.clearwatertimes.com A11

Christmas stories The Magic Ice Skates One night at the North pole it was a normal night.

Santa told everyone “Tomorrow is Christmas everyone!”

Mrs. Claws told Santa “You know maybe the Northern lights are here.”

So when Santa and Mrs. Claws walked outside Santa trip’s over a pair of magic ice skates. Santa was confused “Why would someone leave a pair of skates out in the open?”

Santa wondered so Santa put the skates in a box and sent them to a little girl she loved them.

It was Christmas the day she got the ice skates.

Her name is Lacey she has two sisters named Tracy and Katey.

They were mean to Lacey and ruined her old skates Tracy told Lacey that she will never be a perfect ice skater.

Her friend Lilly told Lacey that she will be a lovely ice skater.

One day Lacey showed her sisters that she was an excellent skater and she was 9 years old. Lacey told them that they were magic and they believed her and so the three of them went to the North pole and saw Santa “Santa I knew you were real!” exclaimed Lacey. Tracey and Katey were excited to meet Santa.

They saw Mrs. Claws holding cookies she asked the three children “how did you get here?”

They told her how they did. They adopted them because the are orphans. So they started wrapping the presents. They told them that they were one of a kind children.

“Why is there so many presents?” Lacey

asked Santa. Mrs. Claws sent them back home.

By Lesley Pinksen

The Magic Ice Skates One Christmas Eve Santa was giving gifts like he did every year on Christmas eve.

Santa wished he got gift on Christmas.

When he was at Max and Lily’s house, there was a note. It said dear Santa, Lily and Max would like to give you these magic ice skates to say thanks for the presents.

Santa was really excited that he got a present! He wondered what they do? He put them on and he became invisible! He could go in people’s houses and not be seen.

When Santa was done delivering the presents, he went back to the North Pole.

Santa went to show the elfs the magic ice skates but when he went to get the ice skates they were gone!

by Reegan Yurkiw, Grade 4

On the Day Before Christmas On the day before Christmas Santa came to be very very very busy and when he stepped outside he seemed to see a little sparkle by his workshop. He whispered to one of his elves, “Can you find out what that is?”

“OK” said the littlest.

“I will help too” said the 2 littlest.

“I will, too,“ said the 3 littlest.

“I guess so,” said the last little elf to Santa .

They brought the strange object to Santa!

He was dazzled! Santa said to his elves, “It is a pair of ice skates.”

The elves said, “Maybe it is a gift for one of the children.”

Then Santa said, “No, I did not make a pair of skates of one of the children. No child said they wanted ice skates this year!”

“Then who owns the skates?” asked one of the elves.

“Not me,” said the first elf.

“Me, either,” said the second elf.

“Then whose are they?” Santa yelled.

“They are not mine.”

The elf said, “Why are you so mad, Santa?”

“Leave!” said Santa in a grumpy voice.

Santa, Why are so grumpy?

Leave now! said Santa.

But Santa, their might be a child down there crying for ice skates said the elves.

There was a child down there but who would know the elves don’t know Santa doesn’t know but Mrs. Claus knew, she knew because it was her daughter.

But Mrs. Claus didn’t tell Santa about there child. Her name was Haileigh. She was 10 years old.

Santa was so busy that he didn’t even notice his own child

Clearwater and District Food Bank

Open: 9am to 12 noon, Mondays and Fridays Cash or cheques can be dropped off at the Food Bank or by mail to 741 Clearwater Village Road, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N1.

Food Donations: dropped off at the Food Bank, Clearwater Credit Union or at Safety Mart Holiday Hours: Closed Dec 24 to Jan. 6 250-674-3402 • info@clearwaterbcfoodbank.ca

How to Donate:

was crying for skates.

Mrs. Claus tried to tell Santa about there child but he didn’t pay attention to her.

Her birthday was on Christmas, she hoped for ice skates for her birthday. So finally Santa gave her skates for her 11 birthday. She was finally happy.

by Haileigh Goodie, Grade 3

The Magic Skates The fairy was skating with her friends and fell. Santa Claus came and helped her up and Santa gave her a present it was a new pair of skates.

She put them on and she skated and she was faster than santa and santa was happy and the fairy was happy and she skated all day long.

They were perfect and she loved them but she had to go home because she got too cold to keep skating.

The End

By Melody Hill, age seven

The Magic Ice Skates One night Santa was coming to town but suddenly he spotted one pair of magic skates. He was having so much fun that he forgot all about delivering presents.

But when the sun started to rise he just remembered about delivering presents to the kids.

By Hunter Breckenridge, Grade 2

How the Goblin Found the Real Meaning of Christmas One cold wintery night, Greedy a Goblin was getting ready to go to bed. His mom Greeny came to tuck him into bed, but right at that moment his sister Greecy ran in and started yelling at him.

“Greecy, go to bed.”

His dad Gravy pounced in and asked what was wrong.

“Finally some peace and quiet,” he whispered, then fell asleep.

In the middle of the night he woke up and ran to the New York

Thank you...

airport because his sister is so mean so he decided to run away.

He jumped in a plane.

He didn't know where he was going so he looked out and saw snow, snow and more snow and a five star resort! “Yes a resort!” he whispered.

When the plane landed he jumped out and ran to the resort.

When he walked in he saw a million elves.

“Good day green alien,” smickered a mean elf. A few seconds later he tripped a tiny elf. “Ha Ha Ha Ha,” yelled all the elves. “Get back to work!” Santa yelled in a deep angry voice.

He stomped down the stairs, picked up Greedy and threw

him in a room and locked it. Greedys heart was pounding a million miles an hour.

Meanwhile the tiny elf James ran right into the same room.

“AAAHHH,” They screamed.

Elf: “Who are you.”

Goblin: “Greedy.”

Elf: “Why would you come here?”

Goblin: “to find the real meaning of Christmas, but I already found it, its presents.”

Elf: “No, its love and family.” Goblin: “Oh thanks.” “By. I have a family thats waiting for me.” He ran off in the distance.

“Thank you.”

Seth Cooperman, Grade 4

St. James Catholic Church December 24 • 7 pm January 1 • 11 am Father Donal O’Reilly 324 Clearwater Village Road 250-672-5949

Clearwater United Church To all those in the North Thompson Valley & Surrounding Areas: Thank you for your kind & generous support of the Courtney & Skye Buck Memorial Playground Project.

We appreciate every vote that we received during the AVIVA competition. Together we built a pathway that will lead to a playground in memory and legacy of these incredible people who taught our children and inspired a community. We couldn’t have done it with you.

THANK YOU Raft River Parent Advisory Committee

December 24 • 4 pm Christmas Lessons & Carols Rev. Brian Krushel 324 Clearwater Village Road (St. James Catholic Church)

Clearwater Christian Church Christmas Eve Service December 24 • 4 pm 11 Lodge Dr. 250-674-2912 250-674-7073

A12 www.clearwatertimes.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

Vavenby Volunteer Fire Department celebrates year end Robyn Rexin

Vavenby News

Christmas has certainly come to Vavenby By – the fresh white snow on the ground, the Robyn lights going up around town, and the parties being held.

Vavenby Volunteer Fire Department (VVFD) held its Christmas dinner on Saturday evening, Dec. 7, at the fire hall. There were 22 firemen and guests present.

The party was organized by Jaimie Greene and Barb Pennell.

Bayley’s Bistro catered the event. Noreen Venables cooked the meal with helper Lorna Szwaba.

Fire chief Sean Dawson gave a thank-you to the cooks for the delicious dinner.

Wells Gray Country Thompson-Nicola Regional District director Tim Pennell presented past fire chief Leo Vermette with two certificates of appreciation – one from MP Cathy McLeod and one from the TNRD. Lieutenant Jaimie Greene gave Dawson a gift of appreciation. It was Lego.

Rexin

Mothers get gifts On Wednesday, Dec. 11, the Strong Start children at the Vavenby Primary School made a gift for their moms for Christmas.

The children were given a tile, put some paint around the border, then put paint on their hand to make a handprint on the tile.

After the craft there was a story about Santa and then the primary students joined the children for a little party celebration with snacks in the classroom and songs in the library.

Suddenly the children could hear bells jingling and there was Santa and one of his elves! Each child sat on Santa’s knee and told him what they wanted for

RISON REALTY

Christmas. After that they all received a gift from has sack. It was a happy day.

Two awards were handed out to the firemen.

Larry Reiter received the Best Attendance Award for 2013 while the Firefighter of the Year for 2013 went to Neil McRae. All the firemen and members of the board were given small gifts.

Moira Crystall thinks deeply about what she wants Santa to bring her for Christmas. Photo by Robyn Rexin Wells Gray Country director Tim Pennell (middle) presents a TNRD grant for $1000 to Ted Richardson and Colleen Rothwell to help cover the costs for Vavenby Christian Church's community free coffee and lunch on Wednesdays.

Photo by Robyn Rexin

Wednesday lunches get support On Wednesday, Dec. 11, Tim Pennell, TNRD representative for Area A, went to one of the free coffee and lunch hours that the community holds at the Vavenby Christian Church (VCC) on Wednesdays.

He presented the community with a cheque for $1000 – a grant from the TNRD – to keep this social time going.

Pennell has wanted to do this since moving to Vavenby.

He said, “This evolved from a tragic event that brought people together. Neighbours get to know neighbours, then are more comfortable helping each other.”

This free coffee and lunch time held at VCC is every Wednesday beginning at 11 a.m. The last day before the holidays was on Dec. 18 but the program will start again on Wednesday, Jan. 8.

Everyone is welcome.

Community supports outdoor rink The volunteers who flood the town’s outdoor rink would like to thank the community for keeping the rink shovelled off.

Wishing Our Friends and Family in the North Thompson a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year ~ Larissa and Randy

Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.clearwatertimes.com A13

B.C. presses for Cariboo gold mine to get approval

By Tom Fletcher, Black Press

Victoria trip gets funding Wells Gray Country (Area A) director Tim Pennell presents a $750 grant from Thompson-Nicola Regional District to Hethar McIntosh for the Clearwater Army Cadets. The money will be used for an upcoming field trip to Victoria.

Photo submitted

Legislature dome is moving, repair needed

By Tom Fletcher, Black Press VICTORIA – The B.C. legislature's signature copper-clad dome is "beginning to twist, and that's a problem," MLAs on the legislature management committee were told recently.

That's the most dramatic symptom of deterioration in the 120-year-old structure, whose many structural problems have been put off for decades and could cost up to $70 million to repair.

Legislature clerk Craig James reviewed highlights of an updated engineering report that shows the delicacy of the task.

"The problem with every part of this building is that when you go to fix one part of it, it's attached to another part, which requires to be fixed as well," James said. "In fixing, for instance, the dome, it sits on these columns that are supported cen-

trally throughout the rotunda, and we're advised that if you fix the dome, you should really be looking at and fixing the central portion too."

The MLA committee was to meet again Dec. 12 to hear from engineers and decide on the next steps. Speaker Linda Reid noted that other legislature renovations have involved moving government operations to another location for as long as 10 years.

The estimate for the most urgent work is $5.7 million, proposed to begin in 2015.

Construction on the limestone structure started in 1893, with additions complete in 1915. It has many plumbing and electrical problems, and does not meet modern fire or building codes.

Other buildings on the grounds also have serious problems, including the former armoury behind the legislature whose upper floor has been declared unsafe for use.

Energy and Mines Minister Bill Bennett is in Ottawa Thursday to press for federal approval of the New Prosperity copper and gold mine proposed near Williams Lake.

Bennett spoke at a news conference organized by the B.C. Chamber of Commerce before leaving to meet with four federal ministers.

He said the recent decision by Canfor Corp. to close its Quesnel sawmill in March is not the last of the bad news for the Cariboo-Chilcotin as the mountain pine beetle infestation takes its toll on the forest industry.

"Certainly the government if British Columbia is well aware that there is serious opposition to this project from the Tsilhqot'in people, and we respect that opposition," Bennett said.

He said 37 per cent of B.C.'s mining royalties now go to First Nations through revenue sharing agreements, and there is more the province can do to work with the Tsilhqot'in communities that have fought against the Prosperity mine through two federal assessments.

Taseko Mines, which operates the nearby Gibraltar copper mine that is the region's

largest employer, revamped its design for Prosperity after it was rejected in the first federal review.

After the second set of hearings, Taseko applied for a judicial review, saying the panel overlooked the use of a barrier in the mine tailings storage.

John Meech, a mine engineering professor at the University of B.C., said the new design not only protects nearby Fish Lake, but will enhance fish habitat.

"I base my assessment on a designed seepage rate that matches what is happening at two other mines in the region, Gibraltar and Mt. Polley, and anyone who tells you that the seepage rates are in error is not telling you the truth," Meech said.

Ervin Charleyboy, former chief of the Alexis Creek First Nation, said he has been shunned by the current Tsilhqot'in

Energy and Mines Minister Bill Bennett Black Press photo

chiefs for supporting the new mine design.

"I want a future for my grandkids," Charleyboy said.

Tsilhqot'in leaders have appealed to the

Supreme Court of Canada in their longrunning case to have their traditional territory declared independent from B.C.

Girl Guides’ Bottle Drive

January 3 & 4, 2014 Raising money for SOAR 2014

(Large international camp being held in Enderby July 2014)

contact Judy 250-674-2319

Happy holidays Willow Macdonald

DIRECTOR, ELECTORAL AREA “B” (THOMPSON HEADWATERS) Willow Macdonald Phone:ELECTORAL 250-674-7303AREA “B” DIRECTOR, (THOMPSON HEADWATERS) Phone: 250-674-7303

Email: willowmacdonald.tnrd@gmail.com Email: willowmacdonald.tnrd@gmail.com 300 - 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada V2C 2A9

Toll Free: 1-877-377-8673 (B.C.V2C Only) Tel: (250)300 377-8673 - 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada 2A9 Toll Free: 1-877-377-8673 (B.C. Only) Tel: (250) 377-8673 Email: admin@tnrd.bc.ca Fax: (250) 372-5048 Fax: (250) 372-5048

Email: admin@tnrd.bc.ca

Through the spirit of friendship and in appreciation of the support May joy uplift you, beauty inspire you and love you have given us over the year, we would like to wish everyone of you a bless you this season and every one thereafter.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Michelle Leins

SPONSOR ~ from Michelle, Jairo andNAME Sam

250-674-3122

Brookfield Centre

A14 www.clearwatertimes.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

Christmas stories

First, second and third place winners in Grade 4 – Grade 7 and K – Grade 3 The Magic Ice Skates One cold winter day Santa was getting

ready for Christmas.

The elves were making toys for Santa to bring

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to all the boys and girls around the world.

Santa looked out the window and saw a pair of strange skates.

So he went outside to see the strange skates.

He tried to put on the skates but they did not fit Santa. He brought them inside the workshop to show Cindy and Clumsy.

They loved the magic skates. Santa went to go check the mail. But to his surprise there was a card in the mail box.

It said Dear Santa I would like a pair of skates. But my mom and dad can't afford a pair of skates. So can you please get me some skates for Christmas.

Love Brooke Santa said in his head if I'm going to bring the skates to Brooke I need to go wrap the skates. Santa

said to Cindy can you go wrap the skates for Brook and write on the card that they are magic. But how are they magic. You will find out how they are magic when you wrap the present. Grades 4 – 7 So she wrapped it and they where glowing. When she was done she brought it to Santa. He loved it so much. Then he went to bed. So he could deliver the pleasant tomorrow night.

Buzz buzz buzz it was Santa's alarm to wake him up. He got up and got dressed in his big red suite. Then went down stairs to eat breakfast. Good morning Ms. Clause said Santa good morning to you to she replied.

I made eggs and toast

Seasons Greetings

for you Santa.

I got to go see how the elves are doing.

They where singing Jingle bells and it sounded good. The elves here so so excited it was Christmas Day. The day passed by so fast it was night time it was time for Santa to go deliver the presents. The first place he went was Brooke's house.

It was very quiet he saw a mouse he was not scared. He put the skates under the tree. He knew it would make her happy. He finished the other kids and went to the north pole. It was morning time for Brook she opened the present from Santa.

She loved the skates from Santa and after lunch she went to go skating she was very good and could do figure eights and grow up to be a professional skater.

By Kristen Regier Grade 4

Christmas Day Once upon a time there was a cranky little green goblin who did NOT like the spirit

of Christmas.

He didn’t even care for presents!

All he did on Christmas Eve was wander the streets of the Kinky Kolla sidewalks and stare into the Christmas stores filled with mega decorations and beautiful clothes, Grades 4 – 7 (which the goblin thought weren’t his style)!

He really fell in love with the skates and skate covers, though.

Many people greeted him with joy and that confused him.

And he never said anything back, all he did was stare at them in shock. But when the people shouted MERRY CHRISTMAS and/ or HAVE A GREAT CHRISTMAS, the little guy thought that they were greeting him so nicely! So as the little guy kept walking along the sidewalks of Kinky Kolla he kept thinking and thinking and thinking until BLING he had the best idea ever!

He decided that

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when he took his usual morning walk he greeted the people first!!!

That is how the grouchy green goblin turned out to be ‘Little Green Goblin.’

By Keziah Vollans, Grade 4

The true meaning of Christmas One day Santa found an old stiff dark cave. He look around and nothing was there.

The next day he was out in the forest looking for mushrooms to have for dinner when he came across this mysterious cave. He went home and thought he would come back the next day and see what was in the cave.

A goblin came out and frightened the elves Grades 4 – 7 right out of their shoes! Santa took the goblin by the hand and said “Who are you?”

The goblin explained he was Bob. Bob had a lot to say!

He told Santa he may as well skip his house every year!

Santa thought the goblin sounded like he needed to know the true meaning of Christmas.

Santa took him by the hand and off they went for a stroll.

On the snow piled sidewalk he softly spoke to the goblin,tell me what you think

Decorative Steel Signs

Buy 1 Get 1 half price until Dec 24th

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Come see our selection of giftware

Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.clearwatertimes.com A15

Christmas stories

First, second and third place winners in Grade 4 – Grade 7 and K – Grade 3 the true meaning of Christmas is?

Yes the Bob explained the true meaning of Christmas is PRESENTS! He exclaimed and Santa spoke kindly, no the true meaning of Christmas is giving !!!

Oh Bob said now I know the true meaning of CHRISTMAS!!!!!

So they spent the rest of Christmas together and they were very giving to others.

By Hannah MacDonald, Grade 4

Santa and the Magic Fairy Once upon a time there was a fairy flying around in the town.

She was very lonely.

Then she met a very nice man but when she saw the mans face she noticed he was Santa Clause.

She laughed and said you are K – Grade 3 Santa Clause. He looked at her and giggled and looked at her and said you are a fairy. I like your red suit said the fairy oh thank you I like your green and orange dress thank you said the fairy.

Would you like to take a walk with me in the park of course said Santa Clause. Ok

would you like to go now said Santa yes said the fairy.

Do you want to use my pixie dust to take us there or we could take my sleigh well I would rather use my pixie dust no said Santa we will take my sleigh.

Why don't we just walk said the fairy they both agreed and got to the park and played on the slide.

There was kids at the park and they noticed Santa they started to run to Santa and jumped and tried to tackle him.

Santa said we can use your pixie dust.

Okay said the fairy.

The fairy used her pixie to take Santa back to the North Pole and she spent Christmas with Santa, Mrs Clause and his elves.

That was the last time she used her pixie dust before it ran out.

The fairy and Santa lived happily ever after.

and then he went back to bed and then he woke up the next morning and he got a K – Grade 3 present.

It was a pair of ice skates that Santa gave him so he was really happy that he got a pair of skates that were magic. The grumpy old troll grinned. He went to Santa and gave him a great big hug and went on to his swamp and the troll said thankyou Santa.

He said I love you

for all the things you got me and he went on to his swamp.

By Joey Ressler Grade 2

The Little Boy who Finds out that Santa is real at Christmas There once was a little boy named James who didn’t believe in Santa Claus. It was Christmas eve night tomorrow and everybody was getting their stockings up having a ball.

Every house was full with Christmas lights except for one it

was completely empty and up at Santa’s workshop. He wasn’t very happy HO HO HO. He just doesn’t have the Christmas spirit any more.

Said Santa let's go deliver gifts said one of the elves. Well we should deliver this poor boys gifts to him first.

Said Santa. Sure jolly old saint nick said, laughy elf. He looks pretty sad to me I sure hope he gets the Christmas spirit in him. I wish to now lets go deliver presents said, one of the elves.

Santa quickly reached in to into his bag and threw sleeping powder on James.

James slumped to the floor and started snoring. Santa ran out the door and jumped into his sled and flew into the night saying Ho,Ho,Ho. When James woke up beside the Christmas tree he saw the presents under the tree and realized that Santa was real!

So they went to the sleigh and tied up the reindeer to deliver the presents. The first house K – Grade 3 they went to was the little boy, James. Santa Claus jumped down the chimney and went to put the presents under the tree.

James heard a noise, woke up and ran down the stairs. Santa turned around in alarm and saw James.

By Sophia Braaten, Grade 3

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The Grumpy Troll Once upon a time there was a grumpy old troll. So he woke up and there was no Christmas so he got up and started to look for Christmas. He really wanted Christmas

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Wishing you time to enjoy the simple pleasures of this Holiday Season 132 Station Road Clearwater, B.C.

Phone 250 674-2257 Fax 250 674-2173

Office hours: Mon - Fri 8:30 - 4:30

Email

admin@docbc.ca

Councillor Barry Banfold

Councillor Councillor Gord Heisterman Jon Kreke

Councillor Ken Kjenstad

Councillor Councillor Merlin Blackwell Shelley Sim

www.districtofclearwater.com

Mayor John Harwood

A16 www.clearwatertimes.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

Sports

Clearwater Novice hockey player Kaylie Romeril takes the puck up the ice during a game against Kamloops. Also in the photo are Eric Brock (goalie), Kylie Blackmore (white helmet), and Ethan Smith on the right.

NORTH THOMPSON SPORTSPLEX Hockey Lives Here!

Family Skating

Fridays @ 5pm • Sundays @ 4:30pm • No Charge Dec. 20 Sponsored by Healthy Living

MINOR HOCKEY GAME SCHEDULE Saturday DECEMBER 21 10:30am Atoms vs Ashcroft 2pm Atoms vs Ashcroft

Have a safe and Happy Holiday

Santa Skate Dec. 22 5pm

Sponsored by Rivercity Realty, Safety Mart & Home Hardware

Preschool Skating 10am Home School Skating Wednesdays 1:30pm Clearwater & District Minor Hockey Still accepting registrations. www.cdmha.info • Register @ 250 674 2594 or nissa1537@gmail.com

Raft Mountain Skating Club Register @ www.raftmountain.com Ladies Hockey • Fridays at 6:45pm Mens Drop In Hockey • Fridays at 8:00 Oldtimers Hockey • Every Wednesday at 8:45 and Sundays at 7:00 Wells Gray Curling Club Call 250 674 3768 for more info.

For more information about the Sportsplex or any programs call 250 674 2143

Novices take on Kamloops Clearwater Novice hockey player Dayton Jasper (l) battles to keep the puck away from a competitor during one of two back-to-back games against Kamloops at the Sportsplex on Saturday. The local team won both games, with scores of 3 – 2 and 5 – 2 respectively.

These were the Novices first games against an out-of-town team.

Photos by Keith McNeill

ABSOLUTE HAIR

Wishing all our friends, families and clients a very joyous holiday season!

#3-98 W Old North Thompson Hwy. • 250-674-0110

Terry Lake, MLA

Kamloops - North Thompson 618B Tranquille Rd. Kamloops BC, V2B 3H6 Phone 250-554-5413 • Fax 250-554-5417 email: terry.lake.mla@leg.bc.ca

www.terrylakemla.bc.ca

Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.clearwatertimes.com A17

Sports Pushing for winter safety in the backcountry BC Coroners Service BURNABY – A group of agencies with a mandate for public safety are joining together to provide information to help British Columbians stay safe in the backcountry during the upcoming winter season.

Representatives from the BC Coroners Service, Environment Canada, Parks Canada and the Canadian Avalanche Centre are highlighting the risks and stressing the need for proper planning, equipment, training and monitoring of weather and snow conditions before venturing into the backcountry.

"Research looking at coroners' statistics shows that an average of 10 persons die each year in B.C. while engaged in winter activities like skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling," says chief coroner Lisa Lapointe. "Another 15 or more persons die each year from hypothermia or exposure to cold. These are numbers we all need to work together to reduce."

Peter Marshall, public avalanche forecaster with the Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC), notes there are some bright spots on the horizon.

"There has been a steady decline in the number of avalanche fatalities over the past four years," Marshall said. "This is especially

Breathe through a straw for

60 seconds.

It seems OK at first, even sort of fun.

significant as the use of the winter backcountry has increased significantly during that period."

Marshall says the goal of the CAC is to ensure that everyone going into mountainous backcountry carries essential safety gear and knows how to use it, has taken basic safety training, and knows how to check bulletins for weather and avalanche risk before heading out.

David Jones, warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment Canada, notes that weather in B.C.'s backcountry can turn nasty fast.

"Calm, clear weather can quickly deteriorate into blowing and drifting snow with driving winds and near-zero visibility," Jones said. "Those venturing into the backcountry need to 'know before they go' and check the forecasts specifically for backcountry areas, not just for the nearest large cities. " Grant Statham, mountain risk specialist for Parks Canada, stresses the need for checking avalanche terrain ratings along with the weather forecasts. The Mountain National Parks comprise 23,000 square kilometres of wilderness in the B.C. and western Alberta mountains, with Parks Canada providing avalanche terrain ratings for more than 350 specific backcountry tours and climbs.

C

apsule

C

omments

Girls play four games Clearwater Girls hockey player Juniper Wadlegger takes the puck up the ice during a game against 100 Mile House on Saturday, Dec. 14. The local team won that game but lost a follow-up match on Sunday. The Clearwater Girls also beat Lillooet twice in league play. Lillooet lost to 100 Mile twice. The girls have two league games in Kamloops this weekend.

They will host a tournament on Jan. 11/12 and then play Merritt at home on Jan. 18/19.

Photo by Keith McNeill

with MICHELLE LEINS

More people are starting to use their cell phones as a reminder to take their medication. Just be sure the reminder is a sound that you will associate with taking your meds. If high-tech phones aren’t for you, try using a digital kitchen timer. Some allow for reminders of up to 12 hours later. Carry it in your pocket or purse.

But keep going.

Head injuries account for 9-19% of all winter sports activities injuries. When you are buying a protective helmet for your sport, be sure it is CSA-approved. A good helmet can considerably reduce the risk of head injury.

After a few seconds your lungs

Heart attacks occur more often in cold weather. The cold causes the blood vessels to constrict causing the blood pressure to rise putting a strain on the heart which is trying so hard to keep our body warm. Also age and exercise (like shoveling that driveway) can also contribute to the heart attack risk.

begin to strain, your head aches, and your palms start to sweat.

Remember, you can stop when you’ve had enough. But people with cystic fibrosis can’t.

Good food abounds at this time of year and to avoid gaining excess pounds, good self-discipline is in order. When sitting down to a holiday meal, try this: fill half your plate with vegetables, a quarter with protein, and a quarter with starch.

Actually, this is a good rule for eating all year round.

All the pharmacists and the wonderful staff of our pharmacy extend to you our very best wishes for a happy and safe holiday season.

It’s how they live every day...

PHARMASAVE MON. - SAT. 9 - 6

BROOKFIELD CENTRE

CLEARWATER, 250-674-3122

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas. May this joyful season greet you with health and happiness.

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday

Clearwater Fire Department

A18 www.clearwatertimes.com

Santa and Lucas Santa and Lucas, the elf, were busy making toys. And suddenly a great tornado swept the elves. Only Lucas didn’t get blown away Lucas held onto Santa’s trousers then the trousers flew off in the tornado so Lucas held onto Santa underwear.

Lucas didn’t want Santa’s underwear to fall off so he grabbed onto Santa’s shirt. Then

ECO

Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

Christmas stories

Lucas grabbed onto one of the heavy toys in the work shop until the tornado was gone.

There was a shadow that Lucas knew. It looked like Dragon snare. Lucas said to Santa “That looks just like my friend Dragon snare.”

Then Santa was thinking that maybe Dragon snare made the tornado. When the dust faded Lucas was right, Old Fire Hall No. 1 300 - 125 4th Avenue Kamloops, BC V2C 3N3

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Toll Free: 1-800-949-3362 (BC)

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Happy Holidays

Telephone: 250-372-8811 Fax: 250-828-6697 Email:

it was Dragon snare.

“Dragon, Dragon” said Dragon snare.

“Did you make that giant tornado?”

“NO” said Lucas “None of us have tornado powers.”

“Dragon Dragon” “Remember these ancient Tornado.”

Before Lucas could respond they got interrupted by Megabone.

“Mega Megabone.”

“I know someone who has Tornado powers but I forget her name.”

“Dragon” said Dragon snare, “World wind.

“Dragon Dragon.” said Dragon snare. If we find her she can help us stop those Tornados.

By Nathan Lever, Grade 3

info@eppcatesoien.com

A Holiday Heads Up To All Our Valued Customers Holiday Advertising Deadline Dates for the

North Thompson Star/Journal and the

Clearwater Times are as follows:

Issue of Dec. 26, 2013

Ad deadlines Dec. 20 - 9am

Issue of Jan. 2, 2014

Ad deadlines Dec. 27 - 9am Our regular office hours are: Mon. - Fri. 9am - 5pm Our offices will be closed Dec 25, 26 and Jan. 1, 2014

Ad sponsor ed by:

The Crabby Old Goblin Once there was a crabby old Goblin named Mr. Icestint.

He hated Christmas so much. He hated the dreadful music. He hated all the dancing, and hated the man in the red suit who delivered presents to good girls and boys.

Mr. Icetint hated the whole Holiday of Christmas. He was never married or had a girlfriend, but he had a Parrot named Garry. Mr. Icetint and Garry were the bestest friends in the whole wide world!

Mr. Icetint never sleeps on Christmas Eve, he tries to break Santa’s Sleigh, but one time it worked!

Santa came crashing down and Mr. Icetint thought to himself what have I done? What will all the girls and boys say when they wake up with no toys no dolls, no trucks or action figures.

He thought hard and then Mr. Icetint splashed Santa with a bucket of water on his face! Santa woke up and was smarter and mean goblin became nicer too!

Santa suddenly rose up and SHOUTED with all his might HO HO HO! Merry Christmas.

Mr. Icetint helped Santa deliver all the rest of the toys to the good girls and boys.

Both felt good that they spread the real meaning of Christmas “loving, giving and caring about others.”

Jacob Archibald, Grade 4

The Magic Ice Skates One day when Lily was walking home from school and saw a new path and decided to go down the path. She looked into the bush and saw a pair of figure skates.

She picked them up and ran to the nearest frozen lake.

She put them on when she got to the lake. When she stepped onto the ice she jumped up and started to fly. She flew all the way to the north pole.

She landed gently in the snow. After that the skates turned into boots. She looked around then she saw a house. She walked over to the house and knocked on the door.

Then somebody opened the door and then she saw an elf.

The elf was short and had all green clothes on. The elf asked if she wanted to come in because it was so cold outside and she did not have a jacket on.

So she went in the house. The elf asked why she was there. She said it was because of the boots she had on her feet and said that they

were magic skates.

He said oh Santa sent those. You must be the chosen one the elf said.

The chosen one what do you mean chosen one said Lily.

Ask Santa your self the elf said.

Oh and how old are you and what is your name said the elf.

My name is Lily and I am 13 years old Lily said.

OK said the elf.

Well I have to go now to see Santa said Lily.

Bye said the elf to Lily.

Lily went to go find Santa. When she was walking she bumped into an elf.

Oops sorry! I was just looking for Santa.

Would you know where it is Lily said to the elf.

He is in his office the elf said.

But were is his office Lily said.

Just keep going the next door is his office the elf said. I would love to chat but I am in a big hurry to make the rest of the toys the elf said.

Bye said Lily. I’m gonna go see Santa now she said. She walked and walked and finely found Santa’s office.

She opened the door and saw something no one has ever seen be for it was Santa Clause!

Heartfelt thanks We are so grateful to have such good customers like you. We look forward to working with you again and wish you a very merry holiday season with the best of friends.

Bayley’s Bistro 674-2674

Ho Ho Ho yelled Santa.

Hi I am Lily I came here because of these magic skates. So what is up with Lily you are the chosen one. Well I need more help with the toy making and you were on the top of the good list so that is why I sent them for you Santa said. But you could stay here forever if you wanted to because every year I lose an elf and get a new one by sending my magic skates Santa said. OK I will stay said Lily.

But do you have a room for me to stay in? asked Lily.

Yes I do and it is a huge room and it has all the stuff you had before but it is brand new said Santa.

But where is the room asked Lily. It is just over there just pull that switch said Santa. So Lily pulled the switch and then a stair case appeared.

She went up the stair case and saw the most beautifulest room ever.

Wow I love it said Lily. After all that excitement they were so tired that they had a nap and after they finished there nap they made the rest of the toys and delivered them to the children and had a very merry Christmas.

By Kaley Jones, Grade 4

The Magic Ice Skates There was one day until Christmas.

Santa was worried so he went outside. He found a pair of magic skates. He tried them on. He liked them so much he forgot about Christmas.

There was now only one hour until Christmas! Then he remembered the skates were magic. So he flew house to house.

By Soren Coates, Grade 2

Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

How the Goblin found Christmas Once upon a time there were two goblins and they didn’t know what Christmas was all about. So they went to the North Pole and the two goblins saw 10 penguins sliding on their tummies and they saw 2 polar bears swimming.

Then they went to see Santa to find out what Christmas is all about.

“Santa, What is Christmas? ”Hi, is that you goblins?”

“Yes, it is, Santa.

We want to know what Christmas is, please!” begged the goblins.

“Christmas is when you get presents from me and your family, too.”

And you cut a Christmas tree, then you decorate the tree.

They went home and they cut a Christmas tree and they decorated the tree. It was

www.clearwatertimes.com A19

Christmas stories

Christmas the next morning and the goblins got 1085 presents.

They hear Santa say, “Ho, Ho, Ho Merry Christmas.

By Kyanna Elliot, Grade 3

The Christmas Goblin There was a grumpy goblin. He never wanted to share.

He ate lots toes and mud. His house is made of twigs.

I HATE CHRISTMAS! A little girl came to his house and gave him a present. And he gave some kids presents and now he likes Christmas.

By Ivy Sims-Godwin, Grade 2

The Magic Skates One dark and stormy night there was an elf but he was grumpy. His name is Dust. He was run-

ning to a tree to make it wither but out of nowhere Santa came he startled Dust so Dust ran away.

But Dust didn’t know he dropped a pair of magic ice skates then Santa found them and after he left. Santa was making beautiful toys and his elves were bringing them to the sleigh.

After 10 minutes Santa decided to take a shower after a hour and a half Santa started to make toys.

Bang all the shelves of toys fell on Santa so he got up and then he saw something sparkle so he picked them up and put them on and fwoosh Santa was skating like crazy and once Santa stopped he realized they were the magic ice skates the ones he’s been hiding all 50 years so he decided to pack them on his sleigh.

After he started making toys and coffee with doughnuts then after a hour Santa decided to take a walk. Then all of a sudden he got hit with a snow ball so he looked around. Then he got hit again he looked around and this time he saw Dust then Santa called his elves then Dust shouted “I want to make toys with you” So Santa said “is thats why u were grumpy” so Santa hired him. Then they delivered the presents to everyone the end.

By Jaden Gerow

The Magic Ice Skates The day before Christmas Santa found a pair of ice skates. Santa put the skates in his sleigh. On Christmas night, Santa gave the pair of skates to a little boy named Alex. In the morning Alex went skating on

his new skates. All of a sudden Alex started to fly!

Alex was really scared and did not know what he was going to do. But then he started to get the hang of it. Alex was having so much fun flying all over his city.

Then Alex heard his mother calling him.

Alex flew home and told his mother how he was flying with his new skates. His mother thought he was making it up, but he was not. Alex thought this would be the best Christmas ever and he was right.

By Dylan Booth, Grade 4

How the Goblin Found Christmas The goblin woke up and he saw a present.

The goblin went to a house. There he saw a present.

He went to his

house. There he saw Santa. He wanted a toy for Christmas.

By Dylan Vaisnis, Grade 2

The Magic Ice Skates One morning Santa woke up. He found a pair of ice skates. He wondered who they belonged to so Santa said I will ask the elves if these skates are one of the elves’.

When Santa went to the elf shop he asked but they all said no. He walked out of the shop. He walked

home. When he was home he sat down.

His wife said I gave those to you. Merry Christmas Santa!

By Sam Jensen, Grade 2

The Magic Ice Skates Santa Claus found the magic skates. He put them on and went to sleep and somebody stole the skates.

So Santa went to look for them and Santa found the skates.

By Mathew Lee, Grade 2

The Clearwater Rotary

Christmas Tree Light-Up was also generously sponsored by the Wells Gray Community Forest Society.

Thank you!

Sorority helps Food Bank Clearwater Food Bank volunteers Heather Stanley (l) and Hailey Jones (r) accept a cheque from Niki McMillan of Xi Epsilon Eta Chapter of Beta Sigma Psi. The sorority raised the money at its annual Craft Auction held in November.

Photo submitted

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

It’s not what you earn, it’s what you keep

CONTACT US TO DISCUSS • Your goals and dreams • Your issues and obstacles • Your success and quality of life

BRUCE MARTIN & ASSOCIATES BUSINESS ADVISERS & CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Clearwater (250) 674-2112

Kamloops (250) 374-5908

www.brucemartin.ca

DINNER IS ON ME I will buy you a $100 meal when you buy a car from me!

Big city selection with small town pricing

DEARBORN FORD Jody Gyger CELL 250-571-9609 Tel 250-372-7101

2555 East Trans Canada Hwy - Kamloops

HOME TOWN girl with HOME TOWN service

Hope this season finds you surrounded by friendly faces and familiar places.

From Our Home’s to Yours

Linda, Lorne, Jennifer, Evan, Sharon, Hope thisDawn, seasonAshla, finds you surrounded Bonnie, Zach & Curtis by friendly faces and familiar places.

A20 www.clearwatertimes.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

Christmas stories

Gray s l l e W Inn

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

~ Merry Christmas ~ Aspen Your first choice for accommodation!

Overlooking picturesque Dutch Lake, we are centrally located, close to all shopping and recreational facilities.

Start your exploration of the splendour of the Wells Gray Provincial Park from here. Experience whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, golfing, fishing, shopping and sightseeing. Return to enjoy our courtyard hot tub, a nice dinner in our dining lounge and then finish the evening off with a fun-filled night in our pub! Let our friendly and hospitable staff make your vacation a relaxing and enjoyable experience!

Gray Wells Inn

service centre

WE FEATURE: 250-674-4086 • Cafe/Restaurant • Self

Your first choice for accommodation!

Contained Dining Area • Banquet & Meeting Rooms •

Your valued business is the cornerstone of our success. In warm of Tub your• Bar &appreciation Grill • Outdoor Hot We re wrapping up heartfelt & Souvenirs Beer, loyalty, we extend our very best wisheswishes to you forto a year full Gifts of happiness &• Cold prosperity. everyone we know for a season driven with Wine & Liquor Store • Special food, fun,Sean, familyRichard, and friends.

Tyler, Ben and Judy - Aspen Service Centre Menus & Services for Bus Overlooking picturesque Dutch Lake, we are centrally located, close to all shopping and recreational facilities.

Start your exploration of the splendour of the Wells Gray Provincial Park from here. Experience whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, golfing, fishing, shopping and sightseeing. Return to enjoy our courtyard hot tub, a nice dinner in our dining lounge and then finish the evening off with a fun-filled night in our pub! Let our friendly and hospitable staff make your vacation a relaxing and enjoyable experience!

Tours & Groups

WE FEATURE: • Cafe/Restaurant • Self Contained Dining Area • Banquet & Meeting Rooms •

Reservations:

1-800-567-4088

Phone: (250) 674-2214 • Fax (250) 674-3019 Yellowhead Highway #5 & Clearwater Village Road, Wine & Liquor Store • Special Box 280, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N0 Menus & Services for Bus

Bar & Grill • Outdoor Hot Tub •

Gifts & Souvenirs • Cold Beer,

Email: wellsgrayinn@mercuryspeed.com • www.wellsgrainn.ca Tours & Groups

Happy Holidays

Reservations:

1-800-567-4088

Phone: (250) 674-2214 • Fax (250) 674-3019 Yellowhead Highway #5 & Clearwater Village Road, Box 280, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N0

Email: wellsgrayinn@mercuryspeed.com • www.wellsgrainn.ca

~ Bonnie, Jeff & Family & Staff

Santa Meets Goblin One Christmas eve Santa found a very strange pair of ice skates.

He said to himself I should bring this to the owner.

Suddenly the ice skates started to glow!

Holey cow they were really bright!

Santa decided to keep them. The real owner was a mean old grouchy goblin. When the goblin found out that Santa took the magical skates the goblin was definitely after Santa.

Back at the shop one tiny elf yelled SANTA SANTA!!!! THE GOBLIN IS HERE!! he will destroy the village all right every one come into my office, hurry now.

The goblin knew Santa would be in there somewhere when I find Santa I will tell him to give back my skates there the only thing to keep me alive.

Meanwhile in Santa's office one baby elf started to cry WHAAA WHAAA BOO HOO BOO HOO !!!!shh little one.

Aha I found Santa he is in his office. The goblin opened the

“an Independent” congregation in fellowship with the broader Christian community in the area.

(Behind Fields Store)

VAVENBY CHRISTIAN CHURCH

3083 Capostinsky Rd. • Service 11 a.m.

Sunday Morning Celebration Services Ian Moilliet Pastor 250-676-9574 Non Denominational

St James Catholic Church

Sunday Service Mass • 11am - 12pm Tuesday & Thursday 10am 324 Clearwater Village Road 250-672-5949 Father Don O’Reilly

Santa and the Dirt Bike Once upon a time, Santa was bored. So he went for a walk. And he found a dirt bike!!

He pushed the bike to the shop. It was rusted. So Santa’s elves fixed it!! Then Santa took it out and drove it. It was a Honda 450!!

He loved it!! So did the elves. Santa put two super chargers on it.

And before he knew it it was Christmas Eve. And he had to get working on the presents. After he was done the presents.

Santa told his elves, “You can ride the dirt bike. But do not hit a jump!!!”

So the elves did not hit a jump. And when Santa came home he was surprised that the elves did not hit a jump.

Your places of worship

Meeting at: 11 Lodge Drive

On the Web: www.clchch.com For information 250.674.3841 or 250.674.2912

by Ella Elliot, Grade 4

Church Directory

Clearwater Christian Church

Sunday Worship Service 10 am

door the goblin said GIVE BACK MY SKATES!!! Oh these are your skates here you go then.

Santa gave back the skates.

Thank you said the goblin then they became friends And they went out the door singing “We wish you a merry Christmas!”

Clearwater Seventh-Day Adventist Church Pastor Bill Kelly Saturday Service - 10am Clearwater Christian Church Ph. 250-674-3468

CLEARWATER UNITED CHURCH Meeting at Catholic Church of St. James

WorShip

Sunday 9am

Rev. Brian Krushel

250-672-5653 • 250-674-3615 www.norththompsonpc.ca

Clearwater Living Streams Christian Fellowship Meeting at New Life Assembly every Sunday 5:00pm

Contact Dave Meehan 250-674-3217 email: livingstreams@hotmail.com Clearwater Community Church open to everyone - all denominations

CLEARWATER NEW LIFE ASSEMBLY Dan Daase - Pastor Sunday Morning Worship 10:30am

(Kids church during service)

Wednesdays Am Ladies Bible Study Thursday 3-5pm Kids Club

Phone: 250-674-2345

308 W Old N Thompson Hwy

COMMUNITY BAPTIST 24E Old North Thompson Hwy

Worship Service 10:30 Pastor Mike Kiewitt 250.674.1332 www.ccbaptist.ca

He was happy that the elves did not hit any jumps.

He promoted the head toymaker to the head elf and he supervised all of the toy making. Nobody was hurt or sad on Christmas Eve. THE END

By Jairo Wight Leins, Grade 3

The Magic Ice Skates One morning Santa woke up and he said what are those? His wife said they are ice skates.

Oh said Santa. So Santa what shall you do with these skates?

I’ll skate with them!

By Devin Holland, Grade 2

The Grumpy Goblin When the grumpy goblin woke up on Christmas he looked for his presents. He was mad.

He went out in the real world and helped people and when he woke up he saw Christmas presents under his tree.

By Presley Dowds, Grade 2

Christmas Morning When the kids woke up on Christmas morning they saw presents under the tree that Santa left for them. All around the world kids enjoy the true meaning of Chrismas.

Even the Cranky old Goblin from the bridge learned to love Chrstmas. How? He saw the happy children and woke up one morning.

He read to be happy and spread happiness all around the world just like Santa.

And Santa liked it and then he became Santa’s helper then Santa’s birthday came up and the helpers got him a dog.

By Robert Lee, Grade 4

The Magic Ice Skates Twas the night before Christmas and all through the houses not a creature was stirring not even a mouse.

Then Santa Claus appeared right through the sky then jingle and a jangle he was on the ice in a slippedy slide. He found some ice skates and put them on the reindeer feet.

Then when he delivered the toys to each boy and each girl he said to himself that Christmas couldn’t happen but it did.

By Jaden Phillips, Grade 2

The Magic Ice Skates One icy day Santa woke up and he found a pair of white ice skates. He wanted to try them on. But when he put them on he went to a goblin land and the goblins said go away.

But just then a very very big goblin came in and said why are you here? Santa said my ice skates put me here. But after 5 minutes he went back to his home.

By Harriet Broadbent, Grade 2

The Magic Ice Skates Santa was delivering presents to kids and Santa found a pair of skates. He found out that they were magic. He didn’t use his sled or his reindeer. Now he uses his magic skates.

He skated on icy parts and to get to the top of the roof and he takes off his magic skates and he goes down the chimney.

Then he gives presents to each person in the world and then he goes back to the north pole.

By Owen Sim, Grade 2

Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

How the Goblin found Christmas Once every year children are born but one of these children weren't normal.

Yes indeed one of the children is a goblin. The goblin was just a baby but she was a very special baby nobody in the world wanted her so one day one person named Jasmin saw the baby crying so she picked her up and brought her home.

When the baby grew older that woman loved her even more but one day the old woman said “The time has come for you to move into the world’’.

At first the Goblin was scared but she had to go. The goblin found a gift shop not to far from her mother’s house. The goblin opened the door to the gift shop and said“hello is anybody home”.

www.clearwatertimes.com A21

Christmas stories

Nobody answered so she walked in she went up stairs she found a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and a living room.

She said this “ I think I will stay here”.

She turned on the light switch the lights went on. Then she heard foot steps and bells then elf’s appeared out of the shadows of the furniture. Then the elf’s charged at her picked her up the elf’s bind folded her and took her to a room, They unbind folded her she opened her eyes to see old Santa in person. Santa said “Hello I'm Santa Clause what is your name”. The goblin was so surprised that she fainted and didn’t say a word.

The goblin woke up in half a hour later that day. Santa said “Are you O.K.”the goblin said “Yes I'm alright,”Santa said “I'm sorry my elf’s

charged at you like that its just nobody has been to my work shop other than the elf’s its been so boring and lonely here I'm just so sorry about that now”.

“What is your name.”

The goblin said her name was “Jennifer.”

Jennifer said “wait a minute where am I.” Santa said “Why you are in the north pole dear Jennifer”. Jennifer looked out the window and she screamed at the top of her lungs.

Santa said this “why Jennifer don’t you know every year my elf’s pick one child to help me do Christmas eve ... and this year the picked you to help me do Christmas eve”. Jennifer said “the elf’s picked me”. Santa said “yes they did they picked you this year”.

The goblin asked if she could step out of the room for a minute Santa said “Go right

ahead”. The goblin thought if she helped Santa she would get a lot of presents. Then Jennifer said to Santa “I will do it Santa”.

Santa said “great”.

Christmas was only in five weeks. The elf’s worked hard each day and night Jennifer also pitched in and did some work while Santa made the list about who was being bad or good children around the world.

Finally the big day came Santa got in the big red suit and got in his sled then Jennifer jumped in Santa said giddap up to the rain deer and took to the sky. Santa stopped at each house went down the chimney and put presents by the Christmas tree.

When they got back there was one present left it was for Jennifer.

But the goblin but didn’t want the gift because

deep down in her heart she realized that giving gifts are better than receiving them she said to Santa “no I don’t want it you have it”.

Santa opened the gift it was a puppy Santa said “thank you Jennifer and I think I will name her Ms. Paws”.

Then Santa waved his hand and Jennifer disappeared into thin air. Jennifer opened her eyes and she was back in candy land Jennifer looked out the window and saw Santa and Ms. Paws flying in the big red sled Santa said Merry Christmas and a happy new year Ms. Paws barked and they went back to the North Pole and as for Jennifer she learned the true meaning the of Christmas Eve.

Jennifer was in the work shop again but Jennifer felt lonely then Jennifer walk down the stairs very slowly she turn on the lights and the lady who raised her was there she said “surprise Jennifer”. Jennifer was so surprised that she jumped into the air and landed on the ground again.

Jennifer said “What are you doing here” the lady said “I'm

here to live with you Jennifer”. Jennifer smiled and hugged her that was the best Christmas Eve Jennifer ever had in her whole entire life then Jennifer whispered“thank you Santa Clause thank you for every thing”.

And that my friends is How The Goblin Found Christmas!!!

by Taniah Nowella Toscano

On all S E C I V ER S

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season from all us us at On Call Services

H

Baby!

Babies of 2013

In our January 9th edition, the Clearwater TIMES will celebrate babIES born In 2013

Don’t miss the chance to share your excitement by announcing the arrival of a new member of the family!

Submit the following information along with a clear photo

A New Birth ... A New Beginning Members of the Voices United community choir sing during a performance in Clearwater Baptist Church on Saturday, Dec. 14. Title of the Christmas cantata was “A New Birth ... A New Beginning.” All the money raised went to Wells Gray Search and Rescue Society. The choir also performed at Forest View Extended Care Unit at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital and will perform at Upper Clearwater Hall on Dec. 21.

Photo by Keith McNeill

only

$27.

99 + tax

• name • Phone • baby’s First name • baby’s Middle name • baby’s Last name • Date of birth • Parents First & Last names Deadline for your entry is Dec. 31, 2013 • phone 250 674-3343 or drop in at our office in brookfield Mall

Bring on the Babies!

STONE & COMPANY (Robert Lawrie, Silvia Scheibenpflug)

Certifi ed General Accountants A22 www.clearwatertimes.com

Rison Realty • 32 E Old N. Thompson Hwy.

N

TH RIVE R OAPPLIANCE REPAIR R Four Star Service 250-674-0079

FULLY CERTIFIED 60 FOOT STICK BOOM Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Itec Enterprises MAN LIFT WITH WINCH Times

DOUG JAMES

We can safely lift you in the cage to put your task close at hand. Pull a pump, lift a tower, top a tree Hourly, daily and weekly rates • Includes operator

Phone: 250-674-2532 • Kamloops: 554-2533 • Fax: 554-2536

PARTS - SALES - SERVICE CALLS USED APPLIANCES

Kindly refer to our website: itecboomtruck.com

Accountant Building -Supply ACCOUNTANT - Certified CERTIFIED

Appliance Repair Carpentry APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Construction Building Supply

STONE & COMPANY (Robert Lawrie, Silvia Scheibenpflug)

R O Hazel’s Housing N

Feb. 1st to Apr. 30th - Every Thursday May 1st to Jan. 31st - By Appointment Hours: 9:30 am to Noon, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Business & Service Directory

Financial Statement Preparation • Corporate & Personal Income Taxes

Certified General Accountants Rison Realty • 32 E Old N. Thompson Hwy. Feb. 1st to Apr. 30th - Every Thursday May 1st to Jan. 31st - By Appointment Winter Hours •9:30 8:30amam - 5pm to Noon, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Hours:

RTH RIVE

APPLIANCE REPAIR Four Star Service • NEW250-674-0079 CONSTRUCTION

DOUG JAMES Hazel Dowds

CLEARWATER, B.C.

Construction Carpentry CARPENTRY

Carpet Cleaning Construction

Hazel’s Housing Box 345 Clearwater BC V0E 1N0

Fully Insured

Journeyman Carpenters

Bonded General • NEW CONSTRUCTION

674-4001 Contractor • RENOVATIONS • ROOFING (250) 674-8469

(250)

CLEARWATER, B.C.

tinybldr@telus.net 250-674-4083

Hazel Dowds

John White

Journeyman Carpenter

Contractor Contracting CONTRACTORS

HANS OUNPUU Building Contractor

DNA Construction New Construction, Renovations, Tiling, Roofi ng.

CARPET CARE EXTRODINAIRE

Dan Arnold CARPET CLEANING

Commercial & Residential

250-587-0010 Certified Technician | Truck Mounted

Kathy Hodder

250-674-1629

Contractor Electric Contractors

HANS OUNPUU Building Contractor

- Installationexperience - Service - Pumping 40Septic years

40 years experience

Renovations • Additions • New Construction Home Repairs • HAFI Jobs • Project Management Gravel - Sand - Top Soil - Snow Removal

Renovations • Additions • New Construction Home Repairs • HAFI Jobs • Project Management

Demolition - Excavation - Backhoe Service Trucking - Crane Truck - Water - Dump

Paul Jack 250-674-3875 Clearwater, BC • ounpuu@telus.net 250.819.3205 250.299.9510

& Bonded 250-674-3875 Clearwater, BC •Licenced ounpuu@telus.net Reg. NO: 99142

Electric GarbageContractors Collection

Gifts Florist

JAGER GARBAGE

The Little Gift Shop

Residential & Commercial Garbage Collection.

Residential includes Blue Bag Recycling Containers available for construction sites, yard clean-up, industrial sites etc.

Phone Jager Garbage 250-674-3798 Licenced & Bonded

Reg. NO: 99142 Serving from Vavenby to Blackpool area

Rob Kerslake Steve Noble

• RENOVATIONS • ROOFING

250-674-4083 Journeyman Carpenter PARTS - SALES - SERVICE CALLS USED APPLIANCES

Tiny Builders QUALITYLtd. WORK

Construction & Renovations from Foundations to Roof

QUALITY WORK

Phone: 250-674-2532 • Kamloops: 554-2533 • Fax: 554-2536

Financial Statement Preparation • Corporate & Personal Income Taxes

250-587-6151

~

Winter Hours • 8:30am - 5pm

Construction Contracting Construction & Renovations from Foundations to Roof Septic - Installation - Service - Pumping Demolition - Excavation - Backhoe Service Rob Kerslake Trucking - Crane Truck - Water - Dump Steve Noble Gravel - Sand - Top Soil - Snow Removal Paul Jack 250.819.3205 250.299.9510

Electric Contractors ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS

250-587-6175 250-587-6175

Symons Electric SYMONS ELECTRIC

Good Prices • Great Service • Quality Work MONDAYS LARRY SYMONS- •CLOSED LICENSED & BONDED -• CLEARWATER B.C. Reg. - CLOSED MONDAYS - • #24833 B.C. Reg. #24833

GarbageGifts Collection GARBAGE COLLECTION

• Jewelry • Gift Baskets • Framed photo, prints & cards • Fishing - rods, reels, lures, knives Local artists - and much flowers ~ plants ~ gifts ~• balloon bouquets ~ more Tuesday to Friday: 10 am specializing in weddings, sympathy, birthdays, - 5 pm anniversaries and other importantSaturdays: occasions10 am- 4 pm

73 Taren Drive, Clearwater 250-674-0101 Next1-877-974-2929 to Clearwater Computers Phone 250-674-2929 Toll Free:

JAGER GARBAGE Kathy’s Jewelry & Gifts Residential & Commercial

SCENTSY CERAMIC WARMERS VELATA BELGIAN CHOCOLATE FONDUES Garbage Collection.

A favourite idea for personal or gift giving and home and party entertainment.

Residential includes Blue Bag Recycling Book now or orders placed weekly. No shipping or handling fees

Containers construction sites, Sat.: 10am - 4pmavailable • Sun.: 11:30for - 4pm 343 Clearwater Valley Rd. yard clean-up, industrial sites etc.

(Beside O’Bryan’s in the Laundromat at the TNT Building Entrance to Wells Gray Park)Garbage 250-674-3798 Phone Jager or call 250-674-3763 or Vavenby 778-208-5359to Blackpool area Serving from

Motor Licence Licence Office Office Motor

Plumbing & Drains

Plumbing & Heating Septic Service

MOTOR LICENCE OFFICE ICBC Agent

NEEDNORTH A PLUMBER? THOMPSON

VANDENBORRE

District of Clearwater

NTPD

NORTH THOMPSON

NTPD

PLUMBING AND DRAINS

Got Leaks? Plugged Drain? New Installs

250-674-2733 250-674-2733 132 Station Road, Box 157, Clearwater, B.C. B.C. V0E V0E1N0 1N0 157, Clearwater, Office Hours: Monday to Friday - 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Open through the Noon hour

Fully Insured • 100% Guaranteed • 250-674-8151

Snow Removal

Storage Storage

PLUMBING DRAINS Wells & Pumps ≈AND Yearly Maintenance ≈ Frozen pipes We are right around the corner

JASEN MANN 250-674-8151

FULL STEAM

Covered RV & Boat Storage

Phone 250-674-1470

NOW AVAILABLE

Snow Removal and Sanding Commercial & Residential

John Chaytor Box 561 Clearwater, BC V0E 1N0 johnfullsteam@gmail.com

Off the Hook

STORAGE Mini Storage Units

250.674.0145

P H SERVICE CLEARWATER SEPTIC LUMBING &

EATING

PROPANE & ELECTRIC FURNACE REPAIR

& PORTABLE TOILET RENTALS

Furnace Installation • Heat Pumps and Air Conditioning Give us a call it’s too• late!

BEST rates in town Radon Gasbefore Mitigation Serving Blue River - Little Fort

“Interior Health approved” YOUR FRIENDLY REPAIR MAN WATER WELL SERVICES POTABLE WATER SERVICE

Jim Vandenborre • Fully insured jhepv@hotmail.com

250-674-3562 visa, debit, mc accepted

250.674.2688 250.674.8552

Business & Service Directory

OG G

S

nk

call Safe Home Clearwater Thursday, December 19, 2013 (250)Times 674-2135 in Little Fort, Clearwater, Birch Island, Vavenby, Avola & Blue River (250) 682-6444 in Dareld, Barriere, Chu Chua, Louis Creek and McLure

www.clearwatertimes.com A23

Service • Sales • Installations

Business & Service Directory

Anytime day or night - Please don’t wait until it’s too late.

Call us now. We can help.

If you would like to volunteer, call 250-674-2600 and ask for Wendy

Star Choice Approved Service Technician Phone: 250-674-0066 or 250-674-8877 email: daveash321@yahoo.ca

THE TIMES

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email: al@starjournal.net

Improvements to income assistance reconsiderations Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation VICTORIA – B.C. is improving the income and disability assistance reconsideration process, Social Development and Social Innovation Minister Don McRae announced recently.

A regulation change will benefit people who are initially found ineligible for assistance on their original application and have to go through what is called a reconsideration process.

Starting immediately, all payments for successful reconsiderations will begin no later than the date the decision was required by legislated time limits. Payments will be backdated for anyone who has to wait longer than the legislated time limits before receiving approval.

This change responds to advice from the B.C. ombudsperson.

"I appreciate the work the ombudsperson has done in looking at our reconsideration

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process. It has shown us an opportunity for the ministry to make small changes that can make a positive difference for individuals who receive income and disability assistance," McRae said.

Reconsiderations are available so that applicants have a formal process to question ministry decisions. The legislated time limits for the ministry to respond are within 10 business days for most cases and up to 20 business days for more complex cases.

"The speed of reconsideration decisions is also something the ministry has worked successfully to improve over the last year," McRae said. "In accepting the ombudsperson's advice, compensation will also be provided to people who had to wait longer than our time limits, from June 2009 onward."

The ministry will provide total compensation of close to $500,000 to 1,272 people.

The individual payments range from $10 to $2,000 – with the average being about $300.

These individuals do not need

to apply. Payments will be made automatically within the next month and will not impact the amount anyone is currently receiving for assistance.

In 2009, government began centralizing its reconsideration process to increase efficiency and reduce administrative costs. At the same time, the economic downturn led to an extraordinary increase in applications. The result was a temporary backlog.

Today, the ministry is able to respond within the required time limit nearly 100 per cent of the time.

The ministry also will be reviewing its disability assistance application process to determine ways to improve the decision-making process from the time a person first applies for assistance.

B.C. is looking for opportunities to improve support and make the province a more progressive place for people with disabilities. To learn more and share your ideas, visit: www. engage.gov.bc.ca/disabilitywhitepaper/

Community Futures gives to Food Bank (L-r) Clearwater and District Food Bank volunteers Sherry Joubert and Susan McFarland accept a cheque from Community Futures Thompson Country director Earl Tomyn. Community Futures is a federally funded business and community development organization. Tomyn and Barriere resident Bill Kershaw are the North Thompson representatives on its regional board.

Photo by Keith McNeill

A24 www.clearwatertimes.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

FEATURED COURSE

Christmas is the day that holds all time together.

Alexander Smith

INTRO TO MIG WELDING

Gain skills in GMAW (MIG) wire feed welding. Several different types of wires and shielding gasses will be utilized in a variety of welding positions. Cutting and fitting of joints will be stressed, with the opportunity to plan and begin a small project. Participants are encouraged to bring their home welders.

JAN 5 – 28, 2014

OFA LEVEL 3

This course covers emergency medical techniques currently considered to be the responsibility of the Level 3 attendant. Emphasis is on primary action approach and patient assessment. This program leads to Work Safe BC certification.

JAN 20 - 31, 2014

UPCOMING COURSES

OFA Level 1 First Aid Jan 26 & Feb 28

$90

OFA Level 3

Jan 20 - 31

Gymnastics (various age classes) Jan 7 – Mar 13

$780 Various prices

Intro to MIG Welding Jan 5 - 28

Wells Gray Country Dec. 19-21: Wells Gray Winter Market, Thur. 5-8pm; Fri. 2-8 pm; Sat. 10am – 4pm.

Dec. 22: Santa Skate, 5 pm, NT Sportsplex Dec. 31: New Years dance, 9pm, Blue River Legion upstairs hall.

Conversation Spanish

$80

Red Cross Babysitting First Aid

$75

Jan 21 – Mar 11

UPCOMING EVENTS

Jan 24 & 25

REGISTER TODAY

Thompson Agriplex, Barriere, Tickets North Thompson Star/Journal, Kamloops Horse Barn. For information call 250-371-7654

TEL: 250.674.3530 IN PERSON: 224 Candle Creek Rd. EMAIL: sarduini@tru.ca • www.tru.ca/regional_centres/clearwater

Jan: 3-4: Girl Guide Bottle Drive. Contact Judy 250-674-2319

Jan. 6: Raft Mountain Skating Club regisDec. 31: New Years Eve Bullarama, North tration, NT Sportsplex, 5-6 pm

ONGOING EVENTS

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT • Tuesday Morning Coffee (TMC): Meets 10am – 11:30 @ Clearwater Community Baptist Church. All women and children welcome. (9:30-10 am Bible Study). Info 250-674-3624 • Clearwater Bridge Club: Wednesdays, Sportsplex lounge, 7 p.m. sharp, info 250-674-2195 • Raft River Rockhounds: 3rd Sat of the mth. Clw Lodge 1pm 250-674-2700 • Women in Business Luncheon: 2nd Thurs. of the mth at Wells Gray Inn, 12–2 pm. Preregister at 250-674-2700 • Clearwater Choir: Youth 3:30 - 5 pm; Adult 6:30 - 9 pm, Tuesdays, Clearwater Christian Church • Crafts & Conversations with Cheryl. Tuesdays 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at the North Thompson Aboriginal Sharing Center.

Phone 250-674-3703 for more info.

• Clearwater Farmer’s Market every Saturday from 9:00 am – Noon. For more info please call Anne at 250-674-3444.

• Clearwater-Vavenby Lions Bingo: Every 2nd Tues. Elks Hall.

250-587-6269 • M&M (Mrs. & Ms.) Social. Last Sun of the mth Wells Gray Inn. 1pm: 250-587-6503 • Blackpool Community Hall Coffee House; Local musicians – every 2nd Fri. of the mth. 6:30pm. Concession, $3 or 2 for $5.

• Clearwater Elks Bingo - every 2nd Thurs. Elks Hall. open 5pm • Cribbage Wed. at the Royal Canadian Legion. 12:30 pm.

• Fun Darts Fri. at the Royal Canadian Legion. 6 pm.

CHILDREN & FAMILIES • Racoon StrongStart - Raft River Elem school days Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri 8:45-11:45am • Racoon StrongStart - Vavenby Elm school days Wed 8:5011:50am • Clearwater Breastfeeding Group: 3rd Wed. of every month 7:30pm @ YCS • Mother Goose - Mornings, reg. Kerry 250-674-2600 ext 227 • NT BC Home Schoolers: Meets Fri. afternoons. Call Leanna 250-674-0057 for details • Kids Club: Clearwater New Life Assembly. Meets every Thur.

3-5 pm. Ages 5-12. For info contact Bobbi @ 250-674-3346

HEALTH & HEALING • AA Meetings: every Wednesday, #11 Lodge Dr, 250-674-1923 • Shambhala Meditation Group: meets every Tuesday at Forest House 6:30-8:00 pm. Info: 250-587-6373.

• Connections Healing Rooms - Fridays 1-3pm (except stat. holidays). 86 Young Rd. No charge. Sponsored by Living Streams Christian Church. www.healingrooms.com.

• Healthy Choices – Tues 9am Clearwater Christian Church bsmnt (behind Fields). $2/wk drop-in free. Call Kim 250-674-0224 • Clearwater & District Hospice 3rd Mon. Sept-Jun 10am Legion.

RECREATION • Drop-in soccer: May-Sept. Tuesdays & Thursday at 7pm at CSS field. Everyone welcome!

• Bowling: Mon. 10–12pm & 1-3pm; Thurs., 1-3pm. Seniors Centre at Evergreen Acres. 250-674-2699 • Clearwater Sno-Drifters: 1st Thurs every mth. 250-676-9414 • CNT Rod & Gun Club: 3rd Tues. of the mth. Blackpool Hall 7pm Nov., Jan., & Mar. AGM in May • Volleyball: Tues. 7:30-9:00 PM, Nov. 5 - Dec. 10, at Clearwater Secondary School Gym, $2 drop in. Info: 250-674-1878.

• Yoga Tree – Call or email Annie 250-674-2468 annie.pomme@ hotmail.com • Core Strength Fitness. Tuesdays. 10-11am 250-674-0001 • Walking Club: Indoors: Wed., 6:45-7:45am, & Thurs, 3:304:30pm, Nov. 20-Dec. 12, 2013 at Clw Secondary School, FREE. Info: 250-674-1878 • Drop-in Curling: Fri. Jan. 11 - Mar. 8, 7:00 PM, $5. Brooms and sliders available.

• Badminton: Mon & Wed, Oct – Mar, CSS gym, 7:30-9:30 pm, $3 drop-in fee, info 250-674-2518 • Drop in Basketball: Fri., 7-8:30pm, Nov. 1-Dec. 1, $2 drop in at Clearwater Secondary School Gym. Info: 250-674-1878 SENIORS • Wells Gray Country Senior’s Society 3rd Sun Social Meet at the Wells Gray Hotel at 12:30pm for lunch or dessert, & chat • Wells Gray Country Senior’s Society Book Club Last Thursday of the month at 2pm at the public library. All seniors welcome.

TO ADD YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT OR ORGANIZATION PLEASE CALL THE TIMES AT 250-674-3343

$350

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North Thompson Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.clearwatertimes.com A25

Your community. Your classifieds.

250.674.3343 fax 250.674.3410 email classifieds@clearwatertimes.com

Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9am -5pm Brookfield Mall, Clearwater Ph: 250.674.3343 • Fax: 250.674.3410

CLASSIFIED RATES AND DEADLINE

Special Rates: 3 Weeks; $22.15 + GST Free Ads: Lost, Found, Student Work Wanted Free ads maximum 15 words will run 2 consecutive weeks.

Employment

Employment

Employment

Timeshare

Drivers/Courier/ Trucking

Education/Trade Schools

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

EXPERIENCED CLASS 1 Drivers, F/T, P/T needed for California & Arizona produce hauling, excellent pay and benefits+ safety bonus and home time. Call Jerry or Brian 1-877-539-1750.

INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR SCHOOL. NO Simulators. In-the-seat training. Real world tasks.

Weekly start dates. Job board!

Funding options.

SignUp online! iheschool.com 1-866-399-3853

Travel

Help Wanted

Happy Occasions: Happy Birthday, Happy Anniversary, etc.

1 column by 3 inch - $18.49 + GST Deadlines: Word Ads: Mondays 12pm 5pm Display Ads: Mondays 12pm

ASHCROFT: Cowboys wanted. Start on/before Feb. 1.

Should be able to shoe, know calving & range riding. Good housing provided. Wage & benefits. 250-453-2550, e-mail fordpj5@xplornet.ca

It is the policy of The Star/Journal and The Times to receive pre-payment on all classified advertisements.

Ads may be submitted by phone if charged to a VISA, MC or an existing account.

CHECK YOUR AD! Notice of error must be given in time for correction before the second insertion of any advertisement. The paper will not be responsible for omissions or for more than one incorrect insertion, or for damages or costs beyond the cost of the space actually occupied by the error.

Advertisers are reminded that Provincial legislation forbids the publication of ads which discriminate against any person because of race, religion, sex, color, nationality, ancestry or place of origin or age, unless the condition is justified by a bona fide requirement for the work involved.

Readers; in ads where ‘male’ is referred to, please read also as ‘female’ and where ‘female’ is used, read also ‘male’.

NOTE: When ordering items out of province, the purchaser is responsible to pay provincial sales tax. Do not send money in response to an advertisement without confirming the credentials of that business, and be aware that some telephone numbers will be charged for by the minute

Announcements

Announcements

Cards of Thanks

Information

Clearwater Seniors would like to thank the Lions Club and all their helpers for a great turkey dinner. Also thank you to the Campbell Family for the entertainment. Wishing all a Happy Holiday Season

Blackpool Hall Pancake Breakfasts cancelled until further notice ~ Star Lake WI

Coming Events Hospital Auxiliary Gift Shop New & Unique Gifts Open Monday - Thursday 10 am - 1 pm (Located in hospital)

Information ADVERTISE in the LARGEST OUTDOOR PUBLICATION IN BC The 2014-2016 BC Hunting Regulations Synopsis

Employment

CANCEL YOUR Timeshare.

No risk program. Stop mortgage and maintenance Payments today. 100% money back guarantee. Free consultation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248.

Buy a Classified in the Star/Journal Buy a Classified in the Times and goes the The Times FREE. andyour your adad goes intointo the Barriere Star/Journal FREE. Regular Rate: 8.50 + GST Maximum 15 words .20c per word extra

Travel

The most effective way to reach an incredible number of BC Sportsmen & women.

Two year edition- terrific presence for your business.

Safe Home Response Providing a safe place to escape for women and their children.

Volunteers always needed.

Call 250-674-2135.

HOSPITAL AUXILIARY THRIFT SHOP

Located across the railway tracks in Vavenby, B.C. Wednesday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Great deals - low prices

Personals Barriere Alcoholics Anonymous Call: 250-672-9643 For Al Anon Call: 250-672-9643, 250-677-4234

Please call Annemarie 1.800.661.6335 email: fish@blackpress.ca

Clearwater: AA meetings Every Wednesday, #11 Lodge Dr., side door. Roll call 8 p.m.

250-674-1923, 250-674-7313

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

NORTH THOMPSON JOBS BARRIERE EMPLOYMENT SERVICES 629 Barriere Town Rd. V0E 1E0 • 250-672-0036 • Fax: 250-672-2159

E-mail: mail@barriere-employment.ca • Website: www.barriere-employment.ca EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR – Yellowhead Community Services CB0250 SUPPORT WORKER – Yellowhead Community Services CB0259 EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR/MANAGER – Yellowhead Community Services CB0262 GENERAL LABOURER – Woodco Sawmill B0266 MYSTERY SHOPPERS – In-Touch Insight Systems B0268

Go To: http://www.wiegele.com/employment.htm for information on jobs with Mike Wiegele.

Skill Development: If you have been on Employment Insurance in the past 3 years (5 years maternity) & are currently unemployed, you may be eligible for re-training dollars. Book an appointment to see one of our counselors for information.

We look forward to seeing you: come in and we’ll personally see that you get the information you’re seeking or call and make an appointment.

• Free computer & Internet access • Free resume help • Free information on many services.

“The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia” In Partnership with Barriere & District Chamber of Commerce and Yellowhead Community Services

TRU invites applications for the following position:

CENTURY PLAZA HOTEL Best Rates. 1.800.663.1818

Employment Business Opportunities TRAIN TO be an apartment/condominium Manager online! Graduates get access to all jobs posted with us. 33 years of success! Government certified. www.RMTI.ca or 1800-665-8339, 604-681-5456.

Help Wanted

FACULTY Health Care Assistant Program, Clearwater Regional Services For further information, please visit:

www.tru.ca/careers

or email jobops@tru.ca We wish to thank all applicants; however, only those under consideration will be contacted.

District of Clearwater Calling for Expression of Interest Age Friendly Event Coordinator

Are you highly motivated? Experienced in event coordination? Comfortable working with seniors on all levels? Are you are looking for a challenge? If so, this contract is for you.

Having successfully obtained a grant through the 2014 Age-Friendly Community Planning program for the purposes of coordinating age friendly focused activities on a monthly basis, the District of Clearwater will be accepting Expression of Interests for the position of an “Age Friendly Event Coordinator”. The program goal is to provide community recreation activities to enable the provision of recreation and healthy living through a monthly workshop style luncheon. The program will also include the development of a Seniors’ Directory outlining a range of services specific to seniors’ needs.

The position is for the 2014 budget year and will be required for 15 hours per month, starting on or after January 6th, 2014 and ending December 31st, 2014. Submissions of Expressions of Interest for this contract position to be received by NOON on December 20th, 2013. Along with your Expression of Interest, please submit a portfolio outlining your experience and ideas for moving this program forward.

Please mark your submission as CONFIDENTIAL: 2014 Age Friendly Event Coordinator; Attention: Leslie Groulx, Chief Administrative Officer, and either drop it off at 132 Station Road or mail to Box 157, Clearwater, BC, V0E 1N0. For more information on this contract please feel free to contact Leslie Groulx, at 250-674-2257 or by emailing to lgroulx@docbc.ca.

CLEARWATER EMPLOYMENT SERVICES 58A Young Road, Clearwater BC V0E 1N2 • 250-674-2928 • Fax 250-674-2938 E-mail: info@clearwateremployment.ca • Web Page: www.clearwateremployment.ca

Age Friendly Event Coordinator: PT/ Clearwater #C0267 Farm Supervisor: incl. accom./Salt Spring #CB0265 German Speaking Tour Guide: FT/ Seasonal/Clearwater #C0264 Professional Driver: Casual/Seasonal/ Clearwater #C0263 Early Childhood Educator/Facility Manager: FT/PT Barriere #CB0262 Facilitator/Case Manager: PT/Barriere #BC0261 Support Worker - Child care programs: 2 positions/Clearwater #CB0259 Traffic Control: Casual/Clw #C0256 Early Childhood Educator/Educator

Free Workshops

to help with your work search are available. Please contact us to register for one or all of these free workshops.

Creating & Updating Your Resume Workshop: Thurs. Dec. 19th “Back to Work Boot Camp”: Jan. 6th – Jan. 10th: Workshops will be as follows: ‘Discover You’ (Assessments) Workshop: Mon. Jan. 6th Resume, Cover Letter and Interview Skills Workshop: Tues. Jan. 7th Networking, Cold Calls & Dress for Success Workshop: Wed. Jan. 8th Internet & Email Basics Workshop: Thurs. Jan. 9th Accepting, Maintaining & Starting Employment Workshop: Fri. Jan. 10th Resumes & Interviews: Go hand in hand, so the better prepared you are the greater the

impression you will make to your future employer. Please drop in and our friendly staff will assist you.

Targeted Wage Subsidy (TWS): Are you currently on Employment Insurance or have you been in the last 3-5 years? If you have, you may be eligible for wage subsidy. Ask us for further info.

Funding for Skill Enhancement: Recent or active EI clients with a career plan in mind seeking assistance through Service Canada are required to book an appointment with one of our Employment Counsellors.

• Blue River Library: An employment consultant comes to the Blue River School. Next visit is Tuesday January 14th from 12:30-2:30. If a one on one appointment is required, please call to set up a time prior to the drop in.

Operated by Yellowhead Community Services The Employment Program of BC is funded by the Government of Canada & the Province of British Columbia

Place a classified word ad and...

IT WILL GO ON LINE!

Looking For Staff?

Start Here.

Call 1-855-678-7833 today for more details.

Assistant: FT/PT Clw/Barriere#CB2050 Maintenance Technician (Instrumentation): FT/Clw#C0248 Cook: 2 positions/Clw #C0240 HD Mechanic/Welder/Machine Operator: FT/Clw #C0239 12 Postings/Blue River: PT & FT #CB0222 Dhef Garde Manger, Assistant Pastry Chef, Sandwich Maker, Marketing Coordinator, Registered Massage Thqerapist/ Lodge Employee, Lodge Employee/Kitchen Helper, Registered Massage Therapist-Albreda Lodge, Maintenance Manager, Guide, Fine Dining Server, Registered Massage Therapist, Housekeeper

A26 www.clearwatertimes.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Times

Employment

Services

Help Wanted

Trades, Technical

Photography / Video

BUSY CONSTRUCTION Co. in Trail, B.C. is searching for an experienced Accounting clerk/ bookkeeper. Candidate is expected to be a self-starter and to be able to work independently in a fast-paced environment. Knowledge of Conac Pivot System is an asset and the ability to take on multiple roles is looked at positively.

Main responsibilities include: Accounts Payable - invoice transactions for goods received and prepare cheques when due; Payroll - collect payroll data daily and convert into daily tracking sheets, submittals and weekly payroll run.

Please send resume to: johnwkm@shawcable.com or call (250)364-1541 for further details.

JOURNEYMAN AUTOMOTIVE Service Technician(s) in Hanna Alberta. Hanna Chrysler Ltd. offers competitive wages, relocation allowance, negotiable depending on experience. Bright, modern shop.

Full-time permanent with benefits. Friendly town just 2 hours from major urban centres. More info at: hannachrysler.ca.

Fax 403-854-2845; Email: chrysler@telusplanet.net.

Need a professional

Employment

Work Wanted

Experienced parts person required immediately for James Western Star in Williams Lake.

Full time, competitive wages, benefits and signing bonus.

Fax resume to 250-398-6367 or email: nwejr@jamesws.com

HAFI GRANTS Notice to low income seniors and persons with disability.

You may qualify for a grant up to 20,000. to modify and adapt your home for improved safety and accessibility. For details contact your local HAFI expert Hans Ounpuu, Building contractor @ 250-674-3875.

GENERAL LABOURERS

Services

OIL & GAS INDUSTRY GUARANTEED Job Placement

â&#x20AC;˘ Labourers â&#x20AC;˘ Tradesmen â&#x20AC;˘ Class 1 Drivers

Call 24Hr. Free Recorded Message 1-888-213-2854

Hotel, Restaurant, Food Services WANTED F/T Cook at SUSHI DEN Rest. 609 abbott st. vancouver. 2 yrs. exp.high school diploma. wage: $2240/mth.40hrs/wk. apply: sushiden94@gmail.com duties: cook japanese meal,plan menu, create item. staff training.

Ofď&#x192;&#x17E;ce Support EVENCE Ltd is a furniture supply company and we are looking for an administrative assistant for our busy office. This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail and good interpersonal skills.

Duties include but are not limited to data entry, reception and production administration. The Successful candidate will: -Have strong analytical and communication skills, -Be a self-starter who is able to work with minimal supervision, -Have a sound knowledge of MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) Candidates with more than 2 years experience will be given preference.Salary is very attractive with other benefits attached. Please forward resume and cover letter to tass@offurntre.com for consideration.

Financial Services ANNACIS ISLAND Pawnbrokers open â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;till midnight 7 days a week. 604-540-1122. Cash loans for Jewellery, Computers, Smartphones, Games, Tools etc. #104-1628 Fosters Way at Cliveden. annacisislandpawnbrokers.com IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s That Simple.

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

INCOME TAX PROBLEMS? Have you been audited, reassessed or disallowed certain claims by Canada Revenue Agency? Call Bob Allen @ 250-542-0295 35yrs. Income Tax experience, 8.5yrs. with Revenue Canada. Email: r.gallen@shaw.ca C- 250-938-1944

Legal Services CRIMINAL RECORD? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

photographer?

Portraits, weddings, special events, pet portraits, commercial.

Affordable memories that last a lifetime. Seniors rates.

Book now avoid & disappointment.

Sorry no passport photos Jill Hayward 250-319-8023/250-672-0055

Handypersons Wilkeekon Services Handyman & Cleaning Residential & Commercial Moving in/out, DIY projects, construction site, interior/exterior, light hauls Bonded Gayle Peekeekoot Ray Wilson 250-674-2775

Telephone Services DISCONNECTED PHONE? National Teleconnect home phone service. No one refused! Low monthly rate! Calling features and unlimited long distance available. Call National Teleconnect today! 1866-443-4408. www.nationalteleconnect.com

Transportation

Transportation

Food Products

Apt/Condo for Rent

Auto Financing

Auto Financing

For Sale: Farm raised frozen free range chickens, $3.75/lb.

Contact Rainer Custom Cutting, 250-672-9629 or www.rainercustomcutting.com.

CLEARWATER, 1-Br @ Woodside. Quiet, clean, updated.

Common laundry.

NS/NP, DD + refs. $575/mo.

604-790-2482 For Rent: 2 bdrm appt. in Barriere, Dunn Lake Rd. Heat & power incl.

NP/NS DD $750/mo. 250-319-5220 or 250-672-9958.

Free Items Old newspaper. Stop by the Times office and pick up a bundle. 14-74 Young Rd. Clearwater

Misc. for Sale Dewalt Saw $45. Craftsman Saw $40. 3 extension ladders $60 each. Plumbing crimp tool $75. Box stick nails 21o $50.

Call Don, 250-672-1971 HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available.

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

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

Feed & Hay

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

Timothy Hay for sale, excellent horse hay, barn stored, 50-60#, $5/each.

Delivery available. Ph 250-674-2905

Pets Good Dog Obedience Classes Starting January 5 * NEW DATES* Basic Obedience - A 6 week course in good manners & canine behaviour begins Sunday, Jan. 5, 1pm at the Fall Fair Hall in Barriere for all dogs at least 6 months old & up. Cost $100.

To register or for more information contact Jill Hayward at 250-319-8023.

Merchandise for Sale

$100 & Under

PHOTOS

Two male song canaries.

Complete w/lg cage and all necessary equipment.

Call 250-587-6373

by Keith McNeill

Rentals

Pets & Livestock

Photography / Video Digital and film photographs.

Phone 250-674-3252 or email:kmcneill@mercuryspeed.com

Merchandise for Sale

Used Postage Stamps

Support International Scouting by donating used stamps which are sorted & sold to raise money for the International Development Fund of the International Scout & Guide Fellowship. This fund pays for training for Scouters in the third world.

Drop stamps off at front counter of the Star/Journal in Barriere, or call Margaret at (250)672-9330.

Real Estate Mobile Homes & Parks Mobile Home for Sale downtown Barriere: 66â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x12â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, in quiet 55+ park. New: F/S, roof, flooring & pellet stove.

Upgraded insulation. Quick possession. $16,900 w/2mo free pad rent. 250-457-6604

Mobile Homes & Pads Clearwater: Immed occupancy 2 bdrm MH, covered deck, fenced yd. Ref + DD $325, rent $650/mo incl water, sewer & garbage. Ph. 250-587-6373

Cars - Domestic

autocredit 911

2004 Buick Lesabre 83,000 km, 4 dr Sedan, navy blue, 6 cyl, auto, summers/winters mounted. $4,000.00 Ph. 250-674-3264

Homes for Rent 2 bdrm house, full carport, fully furnished, all appliances, w/full basement, some outbuildings.

Wood/electric heat, private country living, 8 km from Barriere. N/S, rent negotiable. For application form, call or text (250) 318-7100.

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Clearwater Times Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.clearwatertimes.com A27

Sharing 10 years of Christmases with people we have never met

By Jill Hayward – North Thompson Star/Journal The road back from the wildfires of 2003 that took our ranch, home, possessions, and lifestyle, has been an emotional, physical and financial roller coaster for my husband and me.

There have been many days when we wondered about rebuilding our life, what we were doing, and why we were doing it.

Five days before Christmas 2003, we moved into our new home from the 27 foot RV we had lived in since the fire. Believe me, an un-skirted RV in the middle of winter is not home sweet home at minus -20°C. New home, new furniture, new dishes. Although we had a house again it really didn’t feel like it was ours. For days it seemed like we were staying in a hotel and the maid was going to come and tell us check-out time was 11 a.m.!

But Christmas was fast upon us, and to gather some of the spirit of the season we put up a Christmas tree. This was a positive idea, and should have been a joyous one, but it brought forth sad memories of what we had lost to the fire.

Gone were the irreplaceable family mementos and heirlooms

that had always been on our tree in the past. Gone was the handpainted porcelain bell from my mother, the ornaments my sister had made and painted for us, the special decorations we had collected in our travels across North America, Brazil and Australia.

We no longer had the ornaments that used to hang on my parents

“ ”

mood of somber loss changed to a feeling of comfort and happiness. I realized that we still had a family with us at Christmas.

Perhaps a different one than the one that had shared our trees in the past, but one just as special nevertheless.

Our tree was decorated with handmade bells and ornaments

It’s been 10 years since that first Christmas after the fire. And not surprisingly I still have that box of special decorations from the families whose names and faces we do not know; yet every year I carefully unwrap each ornament and hang them onto our tree.

Jill Hayward

tree (mementos that we kids had made so many years ago), or any of the many items that meant so much to us and brought our family (if only in spirit) into our home over the holidays.

Sadly, our Christmas tree had lost its joy and glitter and the spirit of the season was not a happy one for us. However, we had a tree, and a large box of decorations that had been generously given to us my many kind people since the fire.

I started to hang the decorations on the tree, and as I did my

from the generous folks in Tatla Lake, lights that had traveled to us from families in Revelstoke and Prince George, decorations (many of them homemade) from the Legion Ladies, Seniors’ Clubs, the Red Cross, Salvation Army, schoolchildren, and many other wonderful people. Almost all of the decorations and lights had come from people we had never met; people who took the time to care about us and the Christmas we would be having in 2003.

The ornaments that had been

not surprisingly I still have that re-homed to us moved me the box of special decorations from most as I hung each one on the the families whose names and tree. Yes, these items were used, faces we do not know; yet every not always in the best of shape, year I carefully unwrap each and many had seen better days. ornament and hang them onto One was missing the tip of an angel wing, another had a Santa our tree.

I would like to think that beard that was no longer white, some of those caring individuand the star for the top of the als might possibly read what tree listed to the left. But for I have written here. If so, to me, all of these second hand those folks we would like to items held an honoured place. say, “Thank you for brightenSomeone else had hung these ing our Christmas in 2003 with ornaments on their tree, and your friendship and spirit of the they had shared Christmas with season, we will always rememtheir loved ones around that ber you for it. Each year as we tree as they celebrated the joy of hang those ornaments onto our the season and moved on into a tree and welcome you all once promising New Year.

These small pieces of another again into our home, we wish you a very Merry Christmas family’s Christmas had come to and all the joys that the season our community for distribution can bring for the kindness you to fire impacted families. Each item had been carefully wrapped extended in 2003.” and bagged, as caring people had thoughtfully sent our community a We have flyer packs part of their peravailable at the sonal Christmas Times office tradition and Brookfield Mall memories. This gesture meant a great deal to us.

It’s been 10 years since that first Christmas after the fire. And

Delicious and healthy holiday gift ideas Laura Kalina December is here, Santa has arrived in the shopping malls and the pressure is on to finish buying holiday gifts.

Why not ease the pressure and beat the crowds by giving homemade food as gifts? Holiday baking is a popular gift, but let’s face it, some popular baked goods can be high in fat and sugar.

In light of the rising obesity rates in Canada, maybe it is time to consider giving healthier goodies to the people we care about.

Instead of giving truffles and Nanaimo bars, why not bake a loaf of homemade whole wheat bread wrapped with a festive ribbon? Try drying fruit, such as apples and apricots and layering the pieces in a decorative bag for festive flair. Fruit baskets and homemade salsas also make great gifts.

Here are two of my favorite healthy gift recipes that are guaranteed to be a hit!

Mixed Bean Soup in a Jar Layer ingredients in the order listed in a 1 quart, wide mouth canning jar: • ¾ cup dried kidney beans • ¾ cup dried great northern beans • ¾ cup split peas • ¾ cup red lentils • ¾ cup dried black beans In a small plastic bag add these seasonings: • 2 tablespoons dried minced onion • 2 tablespoons beef bouillon granules

• 2 tablespoons dried parsley flakes • 2 teaspoons dried basil • 1.5 teaspoon chili powder • 1 teaspoon pepper • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Put the plastic bag in the jar on top of the beans and put a lid on the jar. A piece of fabric over the lid with ribbon tied around it makes the gift complete.

Attach a gift card with the following instructions: • Remove the seasoning package from the jar and rinse the beans • Place the beans in a microwavable container, add water until it is 1-2 inches over top of the beans, and cover the container loosely with plastic • Microwave on high for 15 minutes • Drain and rinse beans well, and add them to a large soup pot • Add 8 cups of water, cover the pot and bring it to a boil • Lower heat and simmer for 1 hour until beans are tender, stirring occasionally • Add 1-28 ounce can of crushed tomatoes and the seasoning package and simmer for ½ hour. Serve and enjoy!

Heart Smart Muffins in a Jar Layer ingredients in the order listed in a 1 quart, wide mouth canning jar: • 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup of whole-wheat flour • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder • ½teaspoon baking soda • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg • 1/8 teaspoon salt • 2/3 cup brown sugar • ½ cup raisins, currents or walnuts Put a lid on the jar with a piece of fabric over the lid. Tie a ribbon around it to make the gift complete. Attach a gift card with the following instructions: • Preheat the oven to 350°F • Add 1 jar Heart Smart Muffin mix to a large bowl • Add ¾ cup buttermilk, ¾ cup applesauce, 1 egg slightly beaten, 1.5 tablespoons vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon vanilla to the muffin mix. Add ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries if desired.

• Stir until just blended, making sure not to over mix • Spoon mixture into greased muffin tins until 2/3 to ¾ full • Bake 18-20 minutes or until golden brown • Cool for 10 minutes before removing from tin Have a happy and healthy holiday season!

– Laura Kalina is a community nutritionist with Interior Health

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A28 www.clearwatertimes.com

Thursday, December 19, 2013 Clearwater Times

Clearwater girl plans Me to We trip to India Zoe Ovenden On Oct. 18 I travelled to Vancouver and attended ‘We Day’

– one of over 20,000 students from all over Canada chosen to take part.

We Day is put on

by the organizations Me to We and Free the Children. It’s meant to inspire youth to take action and, “Be

the change you wish to see in the world” (Gandhi).

This year I was inspired to take action.

We work very hard throughout the year to keep you informed with the last minute news that matters most to you. Local information is of significant importance because it concerns the various subjects that affect you as well as the projects of the people we have elected, our school commissions, the local economy and the businesses in our area.

As your local newspaper, it is our mission to inform you and we are very proud to be the local resource for news and information in this community. We sincerely thank you for making our newspaper what it is today. Your loyalty means the world to us.

Star/Journal Reporters: Dee Elli Kohnert Margaret Houben Star/Journal Drivers: Kathy Corrigall Bob Hayward

Times Office: Al Kirkwood Yevonne Cline Keith McNeill

Times Correspondents: Robyn Rexin Kay Knox Times Driver: Ray Wilson Paper Carriers Barriere: Chris Frezell Travis Greenall Wim Houben Paul Komonoski Darlene Stone Blue River: Jessie Shaw Avola: Jeneen Herns-Jensen Vavenby: Brandon Toscano McLure: Kimberley Pelayo Clearwater: Lea LaBranche Jones Family Chelsea Lahaie Brant Settle Annabelle Stevens Rebecca Taron Nathan Weninger

Zoe Ovenden, age 14, hopes to raise $5,000 for a Me to We volunteer trip to India. Photo submitted

how to cook Indian and helped me come up with the dishes I would serve. Wells Gray Inn kindly allowed us to use their kitchen to prepare the meal. Principal Darren Coates at Clearwater Secondary School loaned the tables and chairs. Cindy Raschke transformed my home into an Indian restaurant. Servers were Annie Butcher, Cherie Witts, Everett Raschke and Brynn Rebinsky.

Also appreciated, of course, were all the people who came and ate, making the evening a great success!

We all had fun and raised over $600!

I plan on holding a benefit concert in February, so please stay posted for details.

As an additional fundraiser I'm selling artisan products: jewellery, key rings and cards.

If anyone is interested in making a donation big or small it would be greatly appreciated. You can donate directly through this URL: http://my.e2rm.com/ personalPage.aspx?reg istrationID=2180355& langPref=en-CA. You can email me at zoe. ovenden@gmail.com to have a link. Half of all the profits I make go to the organization Free the Children.

To end here is a quote that sums up my desire to travel to India and help youth: “I want to get an education so I can buy a pair of shoes for my mother. I have never seen her with shoes” – Shakti, age 10, India

Breakfast with Santa PHOTOS: COMSTOCK / RYAN MCVAY / THINKSTOCK

Star/Journal Office: Al Kirkwood Jill Hayward Lisa Quiding Margaret Houben

I would like to help youth in developing countries become educated. I believe this is important for education will work as a ripple effect, which never stops.

I’ve decided to take part in a wonderful opportunity – a Me to We volunteer trip to India. During my trip I’ll work with the community on development projects such as building a school and supplying clean fresh water. To make this trip happen I need to raise $5,000.

On Nov. 30 I held a sit-down Indian dinner to raise money. Forty seven people attended.

We had many different authentic dishes, such as vegetable pakora, curry chicken, chickpea dahl, lentil dahl and, for dessert, rice pudding.

Many people helped me make the night a success, especially Jagdish Kaur Heer, known to most in Clearwater as Jackie, who taught me

Santa and his helpers pose for a photograph during a Breakfast with Santa event held at the Elks Hall on Sunday morning. Pictured are (back, l-r) Louisa Celesta from Simpcw, Doug Bailey, Kate Ferguson, Brenda Griffiths, Vanessa Balatti from Barriere, Jenna Zietsov, Kendall Mackay, Jean Bonner, (front, l-r) Santa with baby, Cheryl Thomas, Cindy Wilgosh and Heather Adamson.

Photo by Keith McNeill

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