Barriere Star Journal, December 19, 2013

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2013

Vol. 39, Issue 51

bcclassified.com

www.starjournal.net

PM0040030872

Mayor Humphreys new chair of TNRD

2011 CCNA

Michelin recalls commercial light truck tires

North Thompson Star/Journal

..... page 2

Pay attention to road conditions ..... page 6

Sharing 10 years of Christmases with people we have never met Since the fires of 2003

..... page 16

Old Fashioned Christmas a hit ..... page 17 STAR/JOURNAL photo: Jill Hayward

Christmas stories

Christmas Story contest entries ..... start on page 20

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78195 50017

$1.35 incl. Tax

Merry Christmas everyone

Grace Farrow holds up her newly completed colouring project during the Success By Six Breakfast With Santa event held at the Lions Hall in Barriere last Saturday. The annual event saw numerous youngsters turn out to visit with Santa and take part in making seasonal crafts and colouring projects. Organizers say numbers were down quite a bit from past years, but the hearty breakfast sponsored, cooked and served by the Barriere Lion’s Club was enjoyed by all. Breakfast was by donation and funds raised go to support Barriere Success By Six programs. The event also collected items for the local Food Bank. Find more photos on page 31 inside.

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

On Thursday, Dec. 12, the Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) board of directors elected Barriere Mayor Bill Humphreys as its new chair. The election took place during the board’s inaugural meeting in Kamloops.

Humphreys replaces outgoing chair Randy Murray, who was stepping down after had holding 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.”

The board also elected Electoral Area “B” (Thompson Headwaters) director Willow MacDonald

TNRD photo:

Barriere Mayor Bill Humphreys elected chair of TNRD.

TNRD photo:

TNRD Area “B” director Willow MacDonald elected vice-chair.

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.

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S E R V I N G T H E N O RT H T H O M P S O N VA L L E Y F R O M H E F F L E Y C R E E K TO B L U E R I V E R

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Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Canada Post to end home delivery in urban areas

By Jeff Nagel Black Press Canada Post will phase out door-todoor delivery of mail in urban areas in a new bid to cut costs.

Many newer suburban neighbourhoods already have community mailboxes. But the Crown corporation says the remaining one third of Canadian households that still get home delivery will be switched to community mailboxes

or grouped or lobby mailboxes over the next five years.

It cites declining use of postal mail – a billion fewer pieces of mail were delivered last year compared to 2006 – as households shift to online bill payments and other digital communication.

The price of stamps will also go up from 63 to 85 cents each if bought in booklets, or $1 for individual stamps.

It means up to

8,000 fewer postal workers will be needed, which Canada Post says will be shed by attrition, as nearly 15,000 workers are expected to retire or leave voluntarily over the next five years.

“With its current labour costs, Canada Post has a much higher cost structure than its competitors in the private sector have,” Canada Post said in a news release. “This is simply not sustainable.”

The reduced

workforce and other changes are expected to save a combined $700 to $900 million per year.

A Conference Board of Canada report last spring found Canada Post would face losses of $1 billion a year by 2020 without major reform.

Reaction has been mixed but one concern being raised is that many more banks of community mailboxes will be vulnerable to mail theft

Michelin North America (Canada) Inc. has announced a safety recall of approximately 76,000 of its Michelin LTX M/S commercial light truck tires in Canada.

These tires are typically found on such vehicles as commercial light trucks, full-sized heavy duty vans, small RVs, and some large pickup trucks. No deaths or injuries have been reported in connection with the recalled tires. This recall, which has been reported to Transport Canada, is being issued because an increasing number of tires are experiencing tread loss and/or rapid air loss.

The recalled tires were manufactured between January 2010 and June 2012. The Department of Transportation (DOT) date range that appears on the tire sidewall is represented by four numbers, with the first two digits denoting the week, and the last two digits representing the year.

The DOT range and product

Star/Journal Drivers: Kathy Corrigall Bob Hayward

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

Merry

sible indoor areas such as malls, until mail thieves can be thwarted.

identifiers for the affected tires are: • Tire Description - Michelin LTX M/S LT 225/75R16 115/112R LRE • DOT Sequence - B3JH AKEX • DOT Production Periods (Inclusive) - 0210 - 2512 The tires were fitted as original equipment on some new vehicles and were also sold as new replacement tires. Michelin stopped producing the tire in June 2012 as part of the company’s normal process of refreshing its product lines.

Michelin said it regrets the inconvenience to its customers and dealers. Owners of the affected tires should visit an authorized Michelin retail location as soon as possible to have the tires replaced at no charge.

For additional information on this recall, visit Michelin at www. michelin.ca/safetyrecall or call Michelin Consumer Care, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. EST Monday - Friday, and between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

EST Saturday - Sunday at 888863-7777.

Christmas

from all of us at the

PHOTOS: COMSTOCK / RYAN MCVAY / THINKSTOCK

Star/Journal Reporters: Dee Elli Kohnert Margaret Houben

livery to every second or third day, or else put group boxes in publicly acces-

Submitted

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.

Times Office: Al Kirkwood Yevonne Cline Keith McNeill

Canada Post

Community mailboxes have been the standard for new housing development for decades.

Michelin issues safety recall for commercial light truck tires

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.

Star/Journal Office: Al Kirkwood Jill Hayward Lisa Quiding Margaret Houben

by identity thieves.

There have been ongoing mail theft reports in Metro Vancouver communities that already have the clustered group boxes. Surrey resident Craig Findlay says the community mailbox in his Fleetwood neighbourhood was broken into repeatedly and says Canada Post must make them more secure before converting the remaining urban neighbourhoods.

“It’s going to be an exercise in futility as far as I’m concerned,” Findlay said.

Findlay said it might be smarter to reduce home de-

&

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

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B.C. presses for Cariboo gold mine

By Tom Fletcher Black Press 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 of 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 Uni-

versity 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 chiefs for supporting

MP invites constituents to “have your say” on Canada’s 150th celebrations Ottawa Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops-ThompsonCariboo 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 Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo to tell us how they would like

Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for KamloopsThompson- Cariboo

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 centen-

nial celebrations in 1967, this will mark 50 years since that important commemoration”, stated McLeod.

The Government of Canada will undertake extensive consultations, 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.

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 long-running case to have their traditional territory declared independent from B.C. Black Press

Energy and Mines Minister Bill Bennett.

New Year’s Eve

Bullarama

A WESTERN FUNDRAISER FOR THE FARM KIDS SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Doors open at 6pm • Bullarama 7pm New Year’s Eve Dance After 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

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

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OPINION

The North Thompson STAR/JOURNAL

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal 359 Borthwick Avenue, Box 1020, Barriere, B.C., V0E 1E0 250-672-5611

Editorial;

Canada Post knows it’s simple: Times continue to change It is disappointing to those who continue to use Canada Post to send and receive mail.

However, the Crown corporation’s decision this week to do away with door-to-door delivery in urban areas is anything but a surprise.

Canada Post is only the latest in a long line of institutions caught in the technological revolution that is the Internet.

As publishers of this newspaper, we know better than most the challenges the technology has presented.

However, the Internet is not going anywhere, so we adapt or die — and that includes Canada Post.

While the postal-workers’ union continues to point to the 2012 profit realized by Canada Post, it often neglects to add the fine print found in Canada Post’s 2012 annual report.

Yes, Canada Post’s annual report notes a $127 million profit — but it points out clearly that profit would have been a $25-million loss had reductions in sick leave and post-retirement health benefits not been agreed to in the latest collection agreement with its union.

And, it adds, those reductions were one-time realizations, not recurring.

In fact, the future looks bleak for the venerable institution, with the Conference Board of Canada predicting Canada Post will lose $1 billion each year by 2020.

Even with last week’s dramatic decision, the Conference Board estimates annual losses of about $500 million per year by 2020.

Mail delivery is not a growth industry and the continual decrease in revenue and pieces of mail sent and received highlights that fact.

If this is indeed “an opportunity for the Conservatives to take a leadership role in the extinguishing of union jobs,” as claimed by Kamloops and District Labour Council president Peter Kerek, and if there is indeed money to be made on the existing Canada Post model, surely a private company will step into the breach and realize the profit.

As we do with that long-lost letter from afar, we suspect we will all be waiting in vain for such a company to fill the door-to-door role being vacated by the Crown corporation.

– Kamloops This Week The STAR/JOURNAL welcomes all letters to the editor. We do, however, reserve the right to edit, condense or reject letters over matters of libel, legality, taste, brevity, style or clarity.

While all letters must be signed upon submission, and have a contact telephone number, writers may elect to withhold their names from publication in special circumstances. Drop your letter off at the Star/Journal Office, fax it to 672-9900, mail it to Box 1020, Barriere, VOE 1EO, or email to news@starjournal.net.

Reader chastises mayor over comments made in ‘As The Mayor Sees It’ column To the editor; Mr. Mayor, you go too far in your “As the Mayor Sees It” article in the Dec. 12 Star/ Journal issue.

I will never argue that we need an upgrade to our power supply.

I’m pleased that elected officials are pressuring BC Hydro to address the problem.

In this article you make the point that power outages can be hazardous for seniors who have compromised health and or mobility.

However, after having made this point, you continue to hammer away in a very tasteless and unnecessary way.

I could hardly believe you exhibited such bad taste as to refer to a room in a seniors facility as a cell.

This article was nothing more than buffoonery.

Edie Doering Barriere, B.C.

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

CMCA AUDITED

Al Kirkwood Publisher

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

Jill Hayward Editor

Subscriptions

359 Borthwick Avenue Box 1020, Barriere B.C. V0E 1E0

Phone: 250-672-5611 • Fax: 250-672-9900 Lisa Quiding Production

Margaret Houben Office Clerk

Web Page: www.starjournal.net Newsroom: news@starjournal.net

advertising@starjournal.net • office@starjournal.net

Carrier delivery $49.00 plus GST Postal delivery $55.00 plus GST The North Thompson Star/Journal is published each Thursday by Cariboo Press (1969) Ltd. in Barriere, B.C. We welcome readers’ articles, photographs, comments and letters. All contents are copyright and any reproduction is strictly prohibited by the rightsholder.

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

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Timber towers: strong, safe, sophisticated and green

By David Lindsay, President and CEO, Forest Products Association of Canada Wood construction is no longer just about basic 2x4s or panels or flooring for single family homes. Advances in science and building technology have led to robust products for taller wood-framed buildings including mid-rise housing, schools, warehouses, offices, stores and recreational facilities.

Innovation in wood construction is expanding the options and providing more choice for builders and architects. It also seems to be unsettling competing building material organizations that have launched a blatant misinformation campaign falsely questioning the safety and environmental credentials of wood frame buildings.

Let me tell you the facts of the matter.

In 2009, British Columbia became the first province in Canada to allow five-and sixstorey mid-rise buildings to be made from wood; more than 250 such buildings are now completed, under construction or in the design stage. Recommended changes to the 2015 National Building Serious Issues require Serious Lawyers

• ICBC Claims • Family Law • Real Estate 1-888-374-3161 Jim McCreight is on location in the Royal LePage Real Estate office every Wednesday. www.mjblaw.com

Code of Canada would offer this mid-rise option to the entire country. This recommendation comes after years of rigorous study by technical experts with support from research organizations such as the National Research Council and FPInnovations.

The latest in engineering and performance-based design have paved the way for higher wood frame buildings that comply or even surpass up-todate code requirements for fire safety and building durability. Tests also show wood buildings provide great resilience in the face of earthquakes and high winds.

Advanced wood materials are also an economic choice. For example, cross-laminated timber (CLT) is assembled in the factory, which cuts down on construction errors and time. The ease of building makes wood frame construction a costeffective choice that will increase affordability for home buyers. From a larger perspective it could create new construction jobs in cities

Guest Shot

by David Lindsay

President and CEO, Forest Products Association of Canada

and support employment in rural forest communities. Another plus is the possibility of increased export opportunities for current and future innovative wood products.

Certainly no-one should doubt the positive environmental credentials of wood. Canada still has 91 per cent of its original forested area, the greatest percentage in the world for forestry nations. The deforestation rate is virtually zero with 650 million new seedlings planted each year. Canada has 150 million acres of forest independently certified to follow sustainable forest management, or about 40 per cent of the global total.

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apsule

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omments

Another “green” advantage of wood is that unlike competing materials, it sequesters or stores carbon and therefore helps combat climate change. That is attractive for building designers who are facing ever growing pressure to reduce their carbon footprint. Wood buildings also have a better thermal performance requiring less energy to heat and cool than structures made of other materials.

We would also argue that wood construction brings with it aesthetic benefits that add warmth and natural beauty to our buildings.

As Canada moves to taller mid-rise timber buildings, other countries are going even taller. For example in Australia, architects involved with a 10-floor building now under construction feel they could go up to 15 or even 25 storeys with the same structure design.

Competing building materials that are publicly attacking the merits of wood-frame buildings for fear of losing business should not be apprehensive.

Taller wood buildings will always need concrete foundations.

Some of the new materials are composites, such as wood-concrete floor and deck systems. With increasing urban density, we can work together to build the best solid and attractive structures which will mean more jobs for all.

The proposed building code changes are not about favouring wood over other building materials. It’s about levelling the playing field and providing choice for both buyers and occupants.

Let facts trump emotion – the truth is that wood constructions is strong and safe and a good option when it comes to the environment and economics as well.

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Margaret Houben

Cheque for Food Bank Community Futures Development Corp. of Thompson Country (CFDC) recently donated $200 to the Barriere Food Bank. Pictured is CFDC representative, Bill Kershaw presenting the cheque to Barriere Food Bank president Debbie Winiski.

Put Your Event Dates online on the Star/Journal Calendar FOR FREE! If you have a non-commercial event happening i n the North Thompson Valley we’d like our online readers to know about it!

Go to: www.starjournal.net, find the calendar on the right hand side of the page, and click onto ‘Add Your Event’ to get started. Then let us know here at the office (250-6725611) so we can list your event in the community calendar in our weekly printed edition.

Al Fortin COTY

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.

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.

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.

Citizen of the Year Banquet Al Fortin

January 18, 2014

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.

Cocktails 6pm ~ Dinner 7pm $18 each

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

Barriere legion Hall (downstairs) 681 Shaver Road, Barriere, BC

PHARMASAVE MON. - SAT. 9 - 6

BROOKFIELD CENTRE

CLEARWATER, 250-674-3122

tickets available at the Star/Journal, Barriere legion and insight tire or call 250-672-5611 for info

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Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Pay attention to road conditions North Thompson Star/Journal On December 9, at 6:15 a.m., the Barriere RCMP received a complaint of a two vehicle collision involving a pickup and chip truck on Highway 5 in the area of Exlou.

Police report they arrived on scene to find a commercial truck with empty van trailer in the northbound lane along the fog line/shoulder area with major damage to the front passenger side.

Further south on the scene was a green Ford car in the northbound lane ditch area with severe damage to

the rear of the vehicle.

BC Ambulance attended the scene and transported the driver of the car to Royal Inland Hospital with minor, non-life threatening injuries. The driver of the commercial truck did not sustain any physical injuries but was noticeably shaken up from the collision.

Rescue crews assisted on scene to ensure all parties were assessed and safe prior to the ambulance arrival. The scene was cleared with both vehicles being towed away.

At this time the investigation is ongoing with physical evidence and witness

Bill Kershaw

DIRECTOR, ELECTORAL AREA “O” (LOWER NORTH THOMPSON) Phone: (250) 319-4770 (Cell) Email: wka1224@telus.net

300- 465 Victoria Street, Kamloops,BC, Canada V2C 2A9

Tel: 250-377-8673 Email: admin@tnrd.bc.ca Fax: 250-372-5048 www.tnrd.bc.ca Toll Free in BC: 1-877-377-8673

statements indicating the car was southbound and entered the northbound lane of travel, in front of the northbound commercial truck, causing the collision.

“This incident is a reminder to pay close attention to the road conditions, drive to the conditions and your abilities and always wear your seatbelt,” said Barriere RCMP Corporal Darin Underhill, “I would also like to send out a big thank you to the two flaggers that assisted on scene until other resources arrived and took over.

Your actions likely saved another collision from occurring.”

Underhill also notes that it is also counter-attack season with many roadside checks being conducted in all areas.

“Please make sure you make plans to travel with a sober driver, taxi or other means if you have been drinking,” said the officer, “We have

SEASON GREETINGS JIM’S FOOD MARKET (FORMERLY LITTLE FORT STORE) C

RCMP photo:

At this time the investigation is ongoing, but police report the physical evidence and witness statements indicate that a southbound car (pictured above) on Highway 5 in the vicinity of Exlou, entered the northbound lane of travel, in front of a northbound commercial truck (pictured below), causing a collision in the early morning of Dec. 9. The driver of the car was transported to Royal Inland Hospital with minor, non-life threatening injuries. also seen a great fluctuation in the temperature of late and experienced many changing weather conditions.

These conditions have made for a difficult time for drivers with snow and ice on the windows of the vehicle, lights covered from the drafting snow and inadequate tires causing issues with traction on the roadway.”

He reminds drivers that you must have a clear view through your front and side windows, clear view with your mirrors and properly functioning lights that are visible.

Simpcw First Nation wishes all a Merry Christmas We encourage everyone to be safe as they celebrate the holidays

All welcome to come help celebrate Winter Solstice 2013.

Saturday, December 21, 2013 begins at 9:00 am with Breakfast then fun games and activities and then Turkey dinner

If you fail to make sure any of these issues are not dealt with you may be facing fines and removal from the roadway until they are corrected.

“Please take the time before you go and at each stop while driving around to make sure your vehicle is safe and ready to go,” stated Underhill, “We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season!”

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

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Thompson Regional Hospital District approves 2014 budget North Thompson Star/Journal 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 costsharing ($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 like to cost share with the TRHD at 40 per cent.

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Elli Kohnert

Charities and non-profits can now benefit from liquor auction rules Ministry of Justice Non-profits and charities have a new way to raise money for causes that benefit society, as the B.C. government relaxes the rules around auctioning liquor.

Following through on an earlier commitment, the B.C. government is allowing privately-donated liquor, such as a vintage bottle of wine or a rare bottle of scotch from an individual’s private collection, as well as liquor donated by a business or manufacturer, to be put up for auction - as long as the funds raised go towards a charitable purpose.

Effective today, small volumes of liquor - up to two cases of wine, eight 750ml bottles of liquor, and/ or 24 six-packs of

beer, cider or coolers - can be auctioned without a permit.

For larger volumes of liquor, a $50 permit will be required.

The permitting process is quick and simple, and was developed in consultation with the non-profit and charity sector.

The B.C. government launched a review of B.C.’s liquor laws in August.

The public consultation component, which saw an unprecedented level of engagement, closed on Oct. 31, 2013.

Drawing from feedback on his blog, which was visited more than 76,000 times in seven weeks, and his consultations with stakeholders and industry groups, John Yap, Parliamentary Secretary for Liquor Policy Reform, will

provide his recommendations to Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton on Nov. 25, 2013.

The goal of the liquor policy review is to make balanced changes that reflect current lifestyles,

continue to grow B.C.’s economy and minimize health and public safety impacts.

To learn more about the rules for liquor licensing in B.C., visit: http:// www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/ lclb/LLinBC/index. htm

Don’t forget the birds

Now that the snow has come, it’s time to be making sure you have your wild bird feeding stations filled for the feathered friends who live in your area. This small woodpecker seems to be taking a moment to choose the seed he will be picking out next from a suet feeder situated in the photographer’s garden.

NEW YEAR’S BABY CONTEST THE FIRST BABY BORN IN 2014 CAN WIN ITS OWN WEIGHT IN LOONIES! (Eligibility: Parents must live in the area from McLure to Little Fort inclusive)

Help Improve Literacy in Our Community.

Volunteer as an adult tutor for the Partner Assisted Learning (PAL) program.

Call Barriere and Area Literacy Coordinator Jill Hayward at 250-319-8023 for information.

DROP OFF THE FOLLOWING DETAILS AT THE STATION HOUSE RESTAURANT (Att: Dave Baines):

Seasons Greetings & all the best for the New Year.

Lana Laskovic, owner/ operator #1-4353 Conner Road (across from Petro-Can) 250-672-9994 fxPO 250-672-9904 #4 - 4480 Barriere Town • Rd., Box 458, Barriere, BC V0E 1E0 email: ambats@live.ca P. 250.672.9994 F. 250.672.9904 E. ambats@live.ca www.ambats.ca www.ambats.ca

• • • • •

Date and Time of birth Place of birth Name(s) of parent(s) Parent(s) mailing address Confirmation note from family physician

As soon as the winner is known, he/she will be announced in the North Thompson Star/Journal

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Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Don’t get on the naughty list with holiday recycling Get helpful hints from Min. of Environment fun poem Submitted

Submitted photo:

A boy and his snowman

Young Mason Wohlgemuth proudly stands with the first snowman that he has built, thanks to some much appreciated assistance from his dad, Chris.

ADVERTISERS! It’s been 137 years since Alexander Graham Bell first invented the telephone in 1876.

And guess what?

It’s still the best way for your customers to find you and give you their business.

Over the holiday season the amount of waste generated around the province increases significantly says the Ministry of Environment. That’s why it is so important for British Columbians to familiarize themselves with how easy it is to recycle and reuse products rather than tossing them in the trash. And it is not just all the wrapping paper and packaging that can be recycled.

Many people will be receiving new toys, clothing and the latest electronic devices over the next few weeks and it is important to remember you can recycle all of your old ones to make room.

To help British Columbians embrace the spirit of recycling at this festive time of the year, the elves at the Ministry of Environment have written “A Recycling Story” - a holiday-themed tale

and keep that business phone ringing all year long!

To the curbside or depot, it’s easy to carry, Making the planet much greener helps us all to be merry!

The choices we make are important you know, Whether it’s sunny, or raining, or starting to snow.

Our lakes will be

cleaner; our parks will be green, Our Province looks nicer when it’s pretty and clean!

Now children, this story is not just for you, It’s important for grown-ups to recycle too!

Reduce and reuse are things to remember To do all year round, not just in December!”

The entire printable booklet is available at: http://www.newsroom. gov.bc.ca/RecyclingStory.pdf The story is also available to read at: http://www.bcbsides. ca/a- recycling-story/ Visit the Recycling Council of British Columbia’s recyclepedia site: http://rcbc.bc.ca/ recyclepedia or download their app and you can find the nearest location to recycle anything from electronics to furniture to clothing and much more.

For The Record: A headline on page 8 in our Dec. 12/13, issue should have read “Council grants $1,500 for 100th Anniversary promotional materials. We apologize for any confusion this may have caused.

ers Canadian Tire (x2) y l F e s e r th Watch fo Flyer Pack!

Coopers s k e e Each & IDA in this W Every Week!

Publication Date:

Ph 250-672-5611 and reserve your space.

Recycle your batteries, light bulbs and lamps, Recycle your papers, your letters, your stamps!

250-672-5363

January 27, 2014 February 27, 2014

Recycle drink boxes, electronics and toys, small appliances, cellphones - for girls and for boys.

We will be closed from Dec. 23 to Jan. 7 reopen on Jan. 8 4307 YELLOWHEAD HWY. BARRIERE

Ad Deadline:

Ph 250-674-3343 and reserve your space.

T’was the night before Christmas and all through the city, Broken toys were scattered about oh, such a pity....

Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday.

Don’t miss out on the

18th annual North Thompson Telephone Directory

with an environmental twist. Here is an excerpt:

Great Savings!

Jysk London Drugs Michael’s Save On Superstore (x3)

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

www.starjournal.net A9

On the topic of expenses and the benefits of communication Communication is a challenge for any local government. Small towns such as ours have an extra challenge given that we have a weekly not a daily paper, there is no real central bulletin board that would serve as a repository of important information and not everyone has high speed access to the internet. Let’s face it, lack of connectivity here in Barriere, as well as the surrounding area is a problem and we need to address it.

Not to take away from the strategic planning session that TRU held last week, which I am sure will get lots of coverage, but at that session there was a great after the meeting discussion around possible ways to increase the available broadband coverage here in Barriere.

The broadband coverage needs to get boosted so that certain training courses can be held in a virtual setting and video conference meetings can be held here rather than have folks travel all over the place. The discussion involved more parties than were there so a few meetings need to be scheduled to see if the ideas will work. I hope to have more on that later.

There is an agenda item that is, or was, since this will come out after the council meeting on Dec. 16, that covers off the report on council remuneration and expenses.

My expenses as mayor are reported as approximately $9,500.

The next highest was for Councillor Stamer, which was reported at

approximately $3,600.

These expenses are used for conferences such as the one the Southern Interior Local Government Association puts on, as well as for any training councillors take.

In the mayor’s expenses there are costs for other meetings that I attended and which I think should not be included in the workshop, seminars and meals budget line; but it appears that there is no budget line for those sorts of things.

Take for example the recent North Thompson Community Foundation meeting held in Clearwater which I attended as the Mayor of Barriere. Her Honour Lt. Governor Judith Guichon was to be in attendance and in my opinion it would be rude not to represent Barriere when invited to do so.

I have also been invited to a number of Federal and Provincial announcements over the past year, some of which were held in Vancouver. What a great way to get to bend the ear of the folks that represent us in those orders of government.

In addition to this, I have tried to schedule follow up meetings with potential investors on the same day so that travel costs are limited. I usually could return the same day.

At the beginning of 2013 we set a limited budget for economic development. There were no salaries or wages to be paid as I was performing the majority of the functions around that por-

GRADE 7

The Grade Sevens are starting their fundraising for their YEAR END FIELDTRIP There is an account at the Bag Lady Bottle Depot for the class.

So if you would like to donate your bottles to the Grade 7 Class or to a certain Grade Seven Student this ad is sponsored by you can drop them off there and leave that grade 7’s name.

ayor M e h t s A . sees it.. with District of Barriere Mayor

Bill Humphreys tion of the business of the district.

In 2012 the district paid out $40,000, plus limited expenses for our part-time Economic Development contractor. In 2013 council realigned the economic development strategy. Going forward it was felt that we could find considerable savings if we performed the function in house. The total for the “DevelopmentEconomic” portion of the budget is reported at $4,002.09 which includes a relatively aggressive advertising campaign and a membership to the British Columbia Economic Development Association.

By going out from the community we have had some success in attracting potential businesses to Barriere, and are working aggressively to build a scenario that will ap-

peal to investors.

We have been invited to speak to the Provincial Nominee program for foreign investors. This is a first for a small rural community like Barriere, as up to now Kamloops was considered small.

So there it is, as the Mayor of Barriere I have travelled to and put in expenses for travelling to; Prince George, Vancouver, Victoria, Kamloops, Kelowna, Merritt, Clearwater and a host of other cities and towns to represent Barriere in negotiations with investors, to meetings held by the Province, meetings held by community groups and other gatherings to do the business of the district as well as promoting our community as a great place to invest in and an even a better place to live.

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Margaret Houben

Food bank gets beef

Perry and Rose Seymour (center) donated an entire cow to the Barriere Food Bank on Dec. 12. The meat will be included in the many Christmas hampers that will be given out next week. On hand to accept the donation were Food Bank volunteers Antoon Houben and John Willox (r).

Rose Seymour is an active volunteer with the Food Bank.

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

Thank you...

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

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

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:

A10 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Seasons Greetings from the Star/Journal!

2x2 moved from from all the members of the page& District 11 Barriere

Heritage & Museum Society and thank you to all who supported our recent raffle.

Your generosity means the world to us.

• LEGION NEWS• #242 • Open: Wed. - Sat. 3pm - 11pm (or later!)

IN-HOUSE RAFFLE WINNERS FOR December 14, 2013

1st Draw: Mike Cline, Vi Ewashina, Lyne Healey & Keith Moore 2nd Draw: P. Martin, Alex Schmidt xoxo, Wm. Brown & Gary Teele 3rd Draw: Frank Wiseman, A. Redman, Mike Cline & Dolores Searle 4th Draw: Coralee Norton, Laura Neighbor, Jill Christiansen & Marian Hardy Bonus: Marian Hardy • The lucky winner of $87.00 was Al Fortin

Thanks To our volunTeers Diana, Carol & elsie

Fridays - FREE POOL

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Elli Kohnert

Thursdays - Crib & Darts at 7pm

CRIB 6 players on Dec. 12 - 1st - Terry Vaughan • 2nd - Nina Clearwaters • 3rd -

Marion Berglund • High Hand - n/a • Skunk - Orm Strom DARTS 12 players on Dec. 12 - 1st - Richard Lowe & Dorothy Carby • 2nd Dennis Bombardier & Frank Wiseman • 3rd - BJ Lyons & Dani Kashino • High Scores, Ladies - Dani Kashino w/103 • Men - Frank Wiseman w/127 • High Finish, Ladies - Dorothy Carby w/8 • Men - Richard Lowe w/67

UPCOMING EVENTS Dec 31 - New Years Eve celebration, DJ music Jan 21 - Executive meeting 6:30pm/General meeting 7pm

H

Grads finish up Christmas tree sale under sunny skies 2014 Barriere Secondary grads, Dalton Vivier, Nicole Huber, Connor Booth, and Tristan Lloyd, receive a pizza delivery from Ross Huber while they were selling Christmas trees last weekend under bright sunny skies in the Barriere IDA parking lot.

The Christmas trees are from Ken Schilling’s Christmas Tree Farm at Darfeild, with all proceeds from the sale going towards the graduation banquet. “The support from the community has been awesome, and we want to thank everyone who made this fundraiser possible,” commented Nicole Huber.

In-House Raffle Every Sat. At 3 PM

Baby!

Babies of 2013

In our January 9th edition, the Star/Journal 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

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. 31st, 2013 • phone 250 672-5611 or drop in at 359 borthwick, barriere

Bring on the Babies!

International students bring in $1.5 million to school district

By Dale Bass Kamloops This Week During one of his trips to China, Terry Sullivan met a young adult woman who spoke almost perfect English.

The School District 73 superintendent asked her where she had learned the language, expecting to hear about a school somewhere.

He was wrong.

Instead, she told him her family did not have the money to send her to a school that would help her with her goal to learn English, so she turned to the Internet, using an economics site — with no interest in the topic itself — and later other sites to teach herself.

“That was how determined she was,” Sullivan said.

It’s why many of the 110 international students now studying in Kamloops schools are here, he said, to learn to speak the language that dominates not only the Internet but the international world of business.

District surveys have shown almost all — 96 per cent — of these students aren’t planning to become doctors or lawyers or teachers, Sullivan said.

They want to go into business.

Their presence has its own business benefit in many ways.

All are attending secondary schools, the educational sector that has continued to experience an enrolment decline. Without them this year, the final number that not only dictates funding from the government but all the academic aspects that roll out from it would have been 185 rather than the 75 fewer students recorded in the final enrolment report.

The immediate economic impact is the $1.5 million the international-student body has brought to the district, plus another $200,000 that comes from

SD73’s offshore courses offered throughout the world.

Apply basic economic spinoff principles and the impact on the local community is more like $2.5 million, he said.

Students come from almost every part of the world.

There’s a large contingent from China, Sullivan said, but there’s a growing interest from South American countries — in particular, Brazil, where the country’s president Dilma Rousseff has put an emphasis on education and learning English.

Students can take advantage of the district’s home-stay program while in Kamloops. Some take just a semester of school, Sullivan said, while others might stay for a year or up to three years of education.

There’s a challenge for teachers sometimes, he said, particularly if the student’s English skills are poor.

But, the district uses some of the money generated from the international program on English as a second language courses.

Each school with an international student also gets $4,000 per student to assist it with any of the teaching challenges that might crop up.

“We give as much support as we can,” Sullivan said.

“And, we don’t blow our own horn but I think it’s fair to say our education system is highly regarded.”

A study done a few years ago on an optimal number of international students pegged the target number at between 200 and 300, Sullivan said.

Factors used in determining the figure include the number of home-stay families involved, domestic enrolment numbers and what the basic infrastructure that keeps all the schools humming can handle.

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

www.starjournal.net A11

Barriere Secondary Honour Roll 2013-14 • Semester 1 Term 1

Grade 12 students

Barriere Secondary photos:

PASSPORT TO SHOPPING

Grade 11 students

THANK YOU

The Passport to Xmas Shopping committee would like to thank all the participating businesses, volunteers and participants for their support and involvement in this years event.

Remember...

Spending dollars in your community strengthens our local economy!

Draw for the baskets will take place Dec. 20th at Armour Mnt Office Services.

Grade 9 students

Your Community.

Your Newspaper.

Great Christmas Gift Idea...

Give a subscription for your local newspaper for that special someone who has everything! All we will need is the

name, phone number and address of the recipient of your gift.

News and Opinions | Shopping Circulars & Coupons | Community Development | Special Event Listings | School Sports Coverage | Local Group and Organizations | Entertainment

and much, much more

Carrier Delivered 12 Months for

Grade 10 students

$49

Which includes our e-edition subscription & FREE classified advertising plus applicable taxes

Mail Delivered 12 Months for

$55

Which includes our e-edition subscription & FREE classified advertising plus applicable taxes

North Thompson Star/Journal www.starjournal.net | 250-672-5611 359 Borthwick | Barriere, BC

The Clearwater Times

www.clearwatertimes.com | 250-674-3343 Grade 8 students

14-74 Young Street | Clearwater, BC

A12 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

$500K supports public safety in the backcountry North Thompson Star/Journal Heading into the holiday season, the Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC) and BC Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA) have each received $250,000 in gaming grants to support their operations and public safety efforts.

However, the gift they really want this year can only come from you - getting the right gear, training and information before going into the backcountry.

The CAC produces daily avalanche forecasts for most of the mountainous regions in western Canada, outside national parks close to 250,000 square kilometres.

The BCSARA supports more than 2,500 search-and-rescue volunteers in more than 80 communities.

Both groups support backcountry safety public education efforts in order reduce deaths and injuries.

This gaming grant funding is part of $4.1 million for search and rescue, firefighting and other emergency-related organizations.

“We’ve seen a steady downward trend in the number of avalanche fatalities over the past ten years.

This is especially significant when we consider the tremendous increase in winter backcountry use over that same time period. This funding allows us to continue to provide our public avalanche warning service as well as our public education efforts,” says Gilles Valade, CAC executive

director. “The goal of the CAC is to ensure that everyone going into avalanche terrain carries essential safety gear-a transceiver, probe and shovel-and knows how to use it, has taken an Avalanche Skills Training course, and checks the avalanche forecast before heading out.”

Don Bindon, BC SARA president commented, “Search and Rescue volunteers respond to more than 1,000 incidents of lost or injured people every year in the B.C. wilderness, more than the rest of Canada combined. Through BCSARA, this funding will continue to support training and education for our dedicated volunteers. Our teams know first-hand the importance of education. Making sure you leave a trip plan and sticking to it when exploring B.C.’s backcountry in the winter can mean the difference between life and death if you get lost or injured.”

Enrolment in Avalanche Skills Training courses co-ordinated through the CAC continues to climb. Last year, close to 7,000 people took that two-day course.

For a one-stop shop of information and links on backcountry safety, visit Emergency Info BC: http://www.emergencyinfobc. gov.bc.ca/campaigns/backcountrysafety.html For information on avalanche training or to view avalanche bulletins, visit http://www.avalanche. ca/cac/

SPORTS

Submitted photo: S&R Bulls

The bulls are waiting

An impressive lineup of bulls are waiting to pit their athletic ability and bovine smarts against a bunch of top winning cowboys, who are ready to ride for eight seconds and a chance to win $5,000 added money and a trophy buckle on New Year’s Eve in Barriere. Tickets for the New Year’s Eve Bullarama and dance at the North Thompson Agriplex make for a great Christmas present.

Make sure you stop in at the Star/Journal office in Barriere before they’re sold out. Bullarama only - $30; Bullarama and New Year’s Dance (19+) - $50; Bullarama/New Year’s Party and KamloopsBarriere Bus (19+) - $80. There will be a beer garden and concessions on site, with the event running on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 6:30 p.m. until 2 a.m. The New Year’s Eve Bullarama and Dance is a western fundraiser for the Farm Kids Scholarship Fund; their mandate is to raise funds through events that promote agri-tourism and the western, rural lifestyle. Profits from the Farm Kids Scholarship Fund events are granted in the form of scholarships for rural youth, with the fund’s first batch of scholarships to be presented in 2014.

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

“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.

NORTH THOMPSON FUNERAL SERVICES 4638 Barriere Town Road, Box 859 Barriere, BC, V0E 1E0

Call Drake at 250-672-1999 or 1-877-674-3030 day or night.

Drake Smith, MSW (Funeral Director/Owner)

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

Do you have a local sports story or event picture?

If you do we’d love to hear from you.

Call 250-672-5611, or email: news@star/journal.net The Star/Journal bringing you what’s happening in the North Thompson Valley

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

www.starjournal.net A13

The best gifts simply cannot be wrapped Kamloops This Week Earlier in the season, we asked our readers to send us their Christmas stories and we received several requests to reprint one from a few years back.

At first we declined, but more requests have come in.

Here it is in full: Today we bring you a true story to illustrate you can not only reduce your stress, but a Christmas done well can relieve stress in others, too.

This is how the story was told to us: “When I was a kid, my family was poor.

“Being poor as a child meant Christmas had more feelings of dread than anticipation but, in our family, my dad would not let us dwell on money. Every year, we came up with a new way to give something to neighbours or another poor family in an anonymous way.

“When I was 10, Christmas fell on Sunday, so we got dressed, grabbed shovels and cleared snow from steps and sidewalks of houses and the church long before daylight.

“We laughed and threw shovelfuls of powdery snow at each other and were long gone before anyone knew we were there.

“At that time, I had never been in a church in my life, but I knew our work would be appreciated!

“I was not looking forward to going back to school after the holidays because, on the first school day after the holidays, we had to stand up and tell the class what we got for Christmas.

“I made up imaginary presents to prevent laughter I was sure would come my way if I said I got

socks or second-hand skates.

“The dreaded day arrived and I contemplated pretending to be sick — just to avoid that first morning of that first day back.

“I knew it would be hard to fool my dad and, when the time came, I chickened out and headed off to school.

“My teacher, Miss Beaman, was there as usual to greet us when we came into class.

“I loved her. She had a smile that could light up the room and, when she praised our efforts, it was like music that played in our minds through the whole day — and, for some of us, our whole life.

“On that day, when I needed it most, she smiled at my greeting even more warmly than I had ever seen before.

“We waited impatiently and, in my case, with dread, for our Christmas treasures to be revealed, only to have Miss Beaman announce we were not going to tell the class what we got for Christmas.

We were going to tell what we did or gave to someone else because, after all, Christmas means giving and not receiving.

“We were all dumbfounded and many protested, but Miss Beaman was firm: What did we

give to, or do for, others this Christmas?

“One by one, my classmates stammered and struggled to say or even think of something.

“She called my name last and I told the class my family shovelled sidewalks on Christmas morning so others could rest and spend time with their families.

“Miss Beaman moved behind me, gently rested her hands on my shoulders and said, ‘This is what Christmas is really all about. We get something more when we give of ourselves than we ever hope to get in a present.’

“For the first time in my life, I felt like I belonged in a group as an equal and my eyes welled.

“Years later, I was walking down the street in front of that same church and happened to glance across the street at the big old house that

stood on the opposite corner — and then it struck me.

“That house was where Miss Beaman paid for room and board during the school months.

She must have seen my family shovelling snow so early on that Christmas morning all those years ago.

“It was only then that I fully understood the gifts she had anonymously given to me that Christmas: Dignity, compassion and elevation from the depths I was so wrong to feel.

“And with realization came her last gift, the understanding that my worth as a person derived not from what I got or had, but from what I gave.

“Even if Miss Beaman was alive, how can you thank a teacher for the gift of these lessons? I guess all you can ever do is help others find their true worth, too.”

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Margaret Houben

Sing a song of Christmas Barriere Elementary School students performed a short Christmas skit and several Christmas songs during the Community Christmas Lunch at the Christian Life Assembly church on Dec. 9. Pictured is BES student Brittany Waite singing during the presentation.

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A14 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Little Stars Preschool shines at concert

By Elli Kohnert North Thompson Star/Journal The gymnasium at the Barriere Ridge was filled with spectators of all ages who had come to be treated to a Christmas Concert presented by more than 30 preschoolers aptly named “The Little Stars”.

These youngsters had practised for more than a month, as their teachers taught them to sing and act out Christmas songs.

There were great big smiles on the faces of everyone in the audience as they watched the youngsters go through their routines, many of the children looked serious but seemingly enjoyed themselves as well.

After the concert, everyone was invited to share great snacks, baked goodies and sweets at the Yellowhead Community Services open house.

Everyone expressed their appreciation to the organizers for an enjoyable time, and for the great presentation by the children.

The Little Stars Preschool Program is provided by Yellowhead Community Services (YCS) in Barriere, and facilitated at the Barriere Ridge three days a week by Jody Phillips, Sarah Lassi and Barb Morris.

The true purpose of Little Stars Preschool is to prepare the children for their eventual transition into kindergarten. At preschool everyone works hard to ensure literacy, language and numeracy skills are developed in conjunction with social and emotional skills, - with the programs aim being to provide the best possible care and developmentally rounded experience possible.. A child that has been encouraged to share, sit and listen at circle time, respect their friends and even complete simple activities such as making a line at the door will have a considerable advantage when entering kindergarten as they will have experienced many of the demands of school life but in a less formal and intimidating setting.

STAR/JOURNAL photos: Elli Kohnert

Young participants in the Little Stars Preschool Christmas Concert use their hands and arms to tell the story of their songs during the performance.

Seasons Greetings Best wishes for a happy and prosperous New Year.

- Eldon, Kim & Staff

Happy Holidays

GOESSMAN DENTURE CLINICS

Murray Purcha & Son Ltd. 250-672-0104 or cell 250-819-4970

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR

Are you missing the news in your community?

Do you want to know when local events are taking place; what’s on the agenda at municipal hall?

Are you looking for a plumber, electrician, or other service?

It’s time to get connected!

Call the Star/Journal today and order your subscription.

603 St. Paul Street • Kamloops, BC • 250-374-9443

Toll Free: 1-888-374-9443

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North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

www.starjournal.net A15

Neqweyqwelsten Winter Celebration North Thompson Star/Journal A large number of children had a wonderful time enjoying their participation in the Neqweyqwelsten Winter Celebration on Thursday, Dec. 12, at the Chu Chua Community Hall.

The evening’s event included a delicious turkey dinner buffet and a sparkling and colourful concert.

Participants and attendees said the event provided an opportunity for seasonal socializing, plenty of fun, and great entertainment.

Photography by Mikael Kjellstrom (Kjellström)

Have you dropped a loonie in the Barriere Food Bank Can? Your support is always needed.

Thank You.

Seasons Greetings

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A16 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

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 myself and my husband.

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 hand-painted 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 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 it’s 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 by many kind people since the fire.

I started to hang the decorations on

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Christmas tree ornaments bring family traditions and memories into a home at Christmas time. the tree, and as I did my 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 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, Senior’s Clubs, the Red Cross, Salvation Army, school children, 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 rehomed to us moved me the most as I hung each one on the tree. Yes, these items were used, not always in the best of shape, and many had seen better days. One was missing the tip of an angel wing, another had a Santa beard that was no longer white, and the star for the top of the tree listed to the left. But for me, all of these second hand items held an honoured place. Someone else had hung these ornaments on their tree, and they had shared

Christmas with their loved ones around that tree as they celebrated the joy of the season and moved on into a promising New Year.

These small pieces of another family’s Christmas had come to our community for distribution to fire impacted families. Each item had been carefully wrapped and bagged, as caring people had thoughtfully sent our community a part of their personal Christmas tradition and memories. This gesture meant a great deal to us.

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 who’s names and

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faces we do not know; yet every year I carefully unwrap each ornament and hang them onto our tree.

I would like to think that some of those caring individuals might possibly read what I have written here today.

And if this is so, to those folks we would like to say, “Thank you for brightening our Christmas in 2003 with your friendship and spirit of the season, we will always remember you for it. Each year as we hang those ornaments onto our tree and welcome you all once again into our home, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and all the joys that the season can bring for the kindness you extended in 2003.”

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

www.starjournal.net A17

Old Fashioned Christmas a hit North Thompson Star/Journal Christmas spirit came to life last Saturday night at the Fall Fair Hall in Barriere when the Thompson Valley Players presented “An Old Fashioned Christmas” – and it was magical.

Entertainers of all ages graced the stage, entertaining for two hours to a standing room only crowd.

Producer of the event, Beverly Murphy, gave high praise to the technical direction of Charlie Kibble and assistant Meaghan Bunn, who created an enchanting atmosphere with a projection screen, coloured lights and the sounds of the season. Murphy herself put in many hours of dedication to make the event the success that it was.

Another driving force was director and emcee Dan Sweetnam, working with his wife and stage director Daphne Sweetnam. These two ‘elves’ where kept on their toes getting all twenty acts on and off the stage; Dan even managed to entertain the crowd with a beautiful rendition of The Little Drummer Boy with his sons Josiah and Sam; and all three appeared in different skits throughout the evening.

The jolly old man Santa himself opened the show with the help of a few elves, and Bob Armstrong serenaded the crowd with “Blue Christmas” complete with a little Santa boogie.

Not to be outdone by Santa, The Grinch tried to steal Christmas but was won over and had a change of heart as Charlie Kibble sang the classic tale, and 93-year-old Peggy Armstrong entertained the Grinch on stage.

The Thompson Valley junior players featured Seanna Armstrong, Brittany Waite, Nikki Storey, Aurora Sabyan, Taylor Harris, Rachael Veich, Gabriella Genier and Jordan Genier sang, who danced and entertained themselves into the hearts of the excited crowd. A highlight of the evening was when they performed a new version of ‘Twas the night before Christmas’ with emcee Dan. Special guests included the talented styling of Gordie West, the hilarious three legged man routine by Gary Pfeifer, and the amazing Leah Pepper Jones sang and directed some good old fashioned favorites with The Thompson Valley Community Chorus.

The Red Hot Mommas brought the house down with a spunky version of “Hey Big Spender”, proving we are all young at heart.

On piano Jessica Kennedy dazzled the crowd with her fantastic playing skills as she tickled the ivory of the old upright piano with a wonderful sound echoing through the hall throughout the evening. Jessica also accompanied her brothers and sister Sean, Michael, Clarrisa and Kurt who sang an inspirational carol.

Sylvia Chivers, portraying Mrs. Claus, read an incredible story of Bethlehem to the children gathered around her.

The night came to a close with a touching story of “Christmas at the Cove” written by Bernice Randrup and her mother Fanny Bradford, that told the tale of Christmas past at the Chinook Cove Hall. Bernice and her husband Harry Heibert brought the characters to life, and did some name dropping of many of the old families that shaped this valley. Their skit was the perfect ending to a well rounded look at what Christmas is all about.

What a night of singing, inspiration, laughing, dancing presents, big elves, candy canes, heartfelt poems, family, friends, chit chat and a great concession offered up by the grade 7 fundraisers.

The Thompson Valley Players say they plan on making “An Old Fashioned Christmas” an annual event, and are already making plans for next season. The group thanks the community for their tremendous support and wish a happy holiday to everyone!

Sylvia Chivers, portraying Mrs. Claus, read a story about Bethlehem with many of the children gathered around her.

Submitted photos: D. Sweetnam

Leah Pepper Jones sang and directed some good old fashioned favorites with The Thompson Valley Community Chorus.

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A18 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Happy Holidays to all those bright shining stars that we appreciate so much; our amazing volunteers, our wonderful sponsors, our cherished friends and associates, and all the great folks who attend our events. May peace, joy and love come to you all.

North Thompson Fall Fair & Rodeo Association www.fallfair-rodeo.com

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

www.starjournal.net A19

12 gifts for a photographers Christmas We finished decorating our 15-foot Christmas tree, and I started putting the tracks together for the Christmas train that goes round and round the tree.

Afterwards, my wife, Linda, resting and enjoying a cup of tea, and perusing the glory of our handiwork commented, “You haven’t told me yet what you want for Christmas. Do you want something for your photography?”

I hadn’t thought about what I wanted. I had been enjoying the tree, the decorations, and the Christmas music, but as far as a gift for me, especially, “something for photography” left me at a loss of what to say, so I replied, “I suppose I want everything and anything that will fit my camera.”

I watched the train go round the tree, and I listened to the music coming from the satellite receiver (I like the channel that plays smooth Christmas jazz) and tried to think about what I could tell my wife.

In keeping with that subject, I decided to pose that question on a couple of photographer forums I frequent.

There are so many different photographers with different ideas on what would be the perfect photography gift for them, that I edited them a bit and selected twelve in keeping with the tradition of twelve days of Christmas.

I am absolutely sure readers have their own Christmas list, however, here are some of the requests I picked out for this year.

(1) “I asked for the Canon 6D, worth a try.”

(The first on the list is one of many that wanted a particular camera, and I just went with the first response of many.)

One would have had to been really good to deserve this.

(2) “I thought about asking for an additional tripod; a smaller, lighter one for hiking... but I would not want to push my luck.” Good choice.

(3) “I asked Santa for a 70-200mm lens.” Very nice.

(4) “Lensbaby Composer Pro - This tilting lens is the first item on my list.” Wow. (5) “I already bought a Fujifilm X100s...I couldn’t wait.” Good move.

(6) “I’ve asked for gift cards, better chance

Making Pictures with

John E n ma n of getting some of those than the Nikon D800 I really want.” That works for me.

(7) “A Bush Hawk Shoulder Mount would be great to find under the Christmas tree.”

That would be so neat.

(8) “A 50mm f/1.4 lens would be perfect.”

I agree.

(9) “I really would be happy if I could get a macro ring flash for Christmas.” I agree.

(10) “I would like a wireless off-camera flash, light stand, and a softbox.” Excellent.

(11) “I’d be happy with a 5-in-1 collapsible reflector, or if I am really very good I would like a really big umbrella, 80 inches would be super.”

Absolutely.

(12) “A new camera backpack to hold the 70-200mm lens I hope I am getting.” That would be so neat.

Personally, I could suggest to my wife that she empty out our sav-

ings and get me a really long focal length lens.

But I doubt that item would actually find it’s way under our tree. After all there needs to be some money left for her.

So, being the practical guy I am, I think I’ll request that Santa Claus puts a couple of good quality, 32GB memory cards in my stocking.

There is still time to get your list ready. Good luck and Merry Christmas.

These are my thoughts for this week. Contact me at www.enmanscamera. com or emcam@telus.net.

Stop by Enman’s Camera at 423 Tranquille Road in Kamloops. I sell an interesting selection of used photographic equipment. And if you want an experienced photographer please call me at 250-3713069.

Please, don’t give pets as gifts at Christmas Christmas is right around the corner – please resist the impulse to buy a pet as a gift for someone else!

Getting a pet is a personal choice. The cat or dog I might choose would not necessarily suit someone else. Pets require a lifelong commitment, so it’s important that the recipient is involved in the choice. If there are already pets in the home, compatibility is vital.

The holidays are also a time of great excitement and busyness. It’s hard to give a new pet the attention it deserves. Pets in new homes face a period of adjustment and stress – they need lots of time with their

Animal Speak with Lindsay Curry

Chair of the Community Council for the Kamloops and District Branch of the BCSPCA email: kamloops@spca.bc.ca • 250-376-7722

new family, as well as a calm and predictable environment.

If you have your heart set on making a match between a family and a new pet, here are some alternative ideas. You can give them a gift certificate for the new pet, a “pet promise” for the new year.

You can also wrap up supplies for the new pet, or books that outline how to care for that pet.

Another cute idea is to give a stuffed animal instead – it can

symbolize your pledge to help find the right animal for them.

Getting a pet is a big decision and not one to enter into on impulse.

Forethought and planning are important parts of the process, and finding the right match of personality, energy level, and care involved is crucial. Pets are a fantastic addition to the family, and there are creative ways to help your loved ones find the best new family member!

We’re cooking up lots of ways to wish you a Christmas that’s full of fun and a new year ripe with opportunities!

Serving up wishes for a happy holiday season for you and yours.

John Enman Photo

A20 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Christmas stories The annual Star/Journal Christmas Story Contest was a little slow to get started, but in the past few days we have been swamped with dozens of wonderful stories and poems from area youngsters. Due to this fact, our judges have not had sufficient time yet to name their winners, so we are publishing the stories first for the enjoyment of our readers, and the winners will be named after Christmas. We thank all of the children who took the time to enter and share with our readers their creative works, and we thank the teachers and parents who encouraged them to do so. Please note that all the stories will appear in no specific order in this issue and will be continued in our issue of Dec. 26, 2013. Enjoy!

Reindeer Jack Gets Lost

By Reegan Willms Grade 1

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Jill Hayward

Shopping for gifts This is the season for shopping as area residents turn out to craft fairs and bazaars, such as at the Barriere Seniors Hall on Nov. 30, to find those special gifts for family and friends.

H

THE STAR/JOURNAL IS DEDICATED TO

elping our

Community

We at the North Thompson Star/Journal take great pride in supporting our community and the organizations who strive to make our area the best place to live: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

North Thompson Agriplex North Thompson Fall Fair Barriere Fire Department Crime Stoppers Barriere and District Food Bank Barriere and District Hospice Barriere Alzheimers Muscular Dystrophy Cowboy Festival Royal Canadian Legion Branch 242 Barriere Search and Rescue Barriere Lion’s Numerous Recreational Groups and Events and many more

It was Christmas Eve. Santa and the reindeer were on their way to deliver presents.

The reindeer bumped into each other and made the sleigh crash.

Jack saw a polar bear, a seal and a penguin.

He went to go say hi and play with them.

The sleigh left without him. Jack was worried. He was worried about his babies. He had to get home.

His new friends promised to help him.

Penguin had a map.

They followed it to the North Pole.

Jack’s babies were happy to see him because they were worried about him. His new friends returned to Penguin Island and Jack misses them.

Santa Meets a Dairy Farmer

By Austin Davis Grade 1

Santa has just thrown a present down the chimney of Farmer Hingles when the sleigh began to make funny noises. The sleigh dropped to the ground. Santa found

himself surrounded by cows in a pen.

“Is everyone okay?”

Santa said.

“Yes but we are hungry and thirsty.”

Santa tried to find the dairy farmer to ask for help. When he found him he said, “I need help fixing my engine.”

Farmer Hingles gave the reindeer food and milk. He and Santa fixed the sleigh and then they had tea.

Santa was able to finish delivering the presents and was happy that he had made a new friend.

The Little Grumpy Elf And Santa

By Cohen Hunt Grade 2

The little grumpy elf got left in Barriere. The little elf saw a school. Little Elf saw small kids on the playground. Elf wanted to play too. He played with toys and had fun with the toys. After he played he had lunch and went home.

The little elf worked and worked. He saw this house with Santa’s reindeer on it. “It’s Santa, he’s back!”

We said, “Let’s have a parade. I can’t believe it...it’s Christmas.

Stuck In The Shop

By Cole Harris Grade 2

Once upon a time there was an elf named Clide who was working on his work. Then Pepper came to see what he was doing.

Clide was Pepper’s uncle. When Pepper came in she pressed a button. It locked the shop.

Clide had a pet polar bear. The polar bear was scared.

Pepper thought that they could call Santa. Santa came.

Clide asked if he could see how to climb up the chimney. Santa said, “Ho ho ho, yes.”

He taught them how to. They escaped.

The Shining Snow

By Shandeen Docherty Grade 2

Once upon a time there was a dog, a cat, an owl and a person.

They were trying to find home. The group found a boat. They climbed in and set sail.

It was just in time because a polar bear had come looking for his lunch. Too bad bear.

They find their way onto land. Before going too far from the

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water they found fish.

The bear got a boat and got to land too.

The animals defeated the bear.

The Little Elf

By Emily Rainer Grade 1

Little Reindeer got lost in the dark forest.

He wanted his mom.

He was in trouble and had to go to his big, dark, scary room in the forest. He was hungry because the sack of food he was carrying had a hole in it. He cried and cried.

He was wasn’t feeling well.

His mom came to see him. She loved him! He cried because he was so happy to see his mom. He loved his mom.

The Little Elf

By Debbie Hernandez Grade 2

A little elf went for a ride and his tire popped. He stepped out of the car and he called, “Help!”

An elf helped him and he needed to take it to a shop and fix it.

They were waiting for an hour, for two hours and Santa was waiting for him.

The car was done.

The little elf went to the North Pole and Santa was happy when he got there.

He didn’t believe it.

Santa was happy to see him.

The Elves That Make Toys

By Corey Bourque Grade 1

Santa’s elves make toys at the North Pole.

On Christmas Eve the elves wanted to play in the snow. When Santa wasn’t looking they ...continued on next page

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

www.starjournal.net A21

Christmas stories went outside to play.

Santa went looking for them and found them outside playing. He got mad because they didn’t ask. The elves got in big trouble.

They had to go inside and make more toys.

Santa’s Stuck

By Chays York Grade 1

Santa was not having a good night. He was stuck in a chimney. He was at the first house and he was worried he wouldn’t get all the presents delivered.

Then things got worse, he could hear kids’ feet coming down the stairs. “Hey look, it’s Santa! He’s stuck in our chimney!” said David.

Molly said, “Let’s grab a rope and pull him out!”

They wrapped the rope around his feet and pulled. Then Santa was able to deliver presents. The children got something special for helping Santa.

Molly got a Barbie and David got a Lego Halo.

Christmas Is Jesus’s Birthday

By Isaac Mason Grade 1

“Home, sweet home.” said Jesus. But, Jesus was on a sleigh with Santa. Santa was delivering presents.

“Okay.” said Jesus.

“You will be one of the elves.” said Santa.

“What!” said Jesus.

“Some way I have to get out of here.” he thought.

Jesus had an idea, he said, “I’m gonna jump.”

“No,” said Santa, “let’s play Santamaze.”

Then Jesus played and won the game which only seems right on his birthday.

New Friends

By Haylie Giles Grade 1

The bear was lonely. The snowshoe hare

and the bear found each other and made a fort and heard Christmas stories. They were cold. They decided they should go to Santa’s workshop.

The friends found a sleigh and rode it to the workshop. Santa invited them to sit by the fire and have hot chocolate.

Wacky Wednesday

By Alexis Nelson Grade 2

“Santa’s hat is on the wall.” said Dick.

He looked out the window and there were bananas in the apple tree and a worm chasing a bird. Then he walked down the hallway and saw five things!

One picture was upside down, it was my uncle. Under my desk there was a candy cane. Dick walked into the bathroom to have a shower. There was a palm tree in the toilet.

He went outside and saw Santa looking for his hat and he yelled, “Santa, Santa!

I found your hat.”

Santa and his reindeer flew down from the sky to get his hat back.

Christmas!” said Santa.

The Northern Lights were so beautiful! Santa fainted in front of Mrs. Claus.

His wife blew a whistle to call the elves for help.

They put Santa on a sled and pulled him home. They gave him lemon and hot water and honey. Santa had a little snooze and felt good enough to go and deliver presents.

Glowing Red Eyes

By Dontay Parish Grade 2

One day there was a little elf who was scared. He thought there was a monster under his bed.

He looked under the bed and saw glowing red eyes. The little elf yelled, “Mom!” He ran down the stairs screaming, “Eeeeeee!!”

His mom went looking for him and found him hidden in the coat closet.

He said, “There are glowing red eyes under my bed!”

She went and looked and pulled out the little elf’s fire truck with flashing red sirens.

Fly Guy was swimming deep in the water when he got trapped in a shell by an octopus.

Inside the giant clam he found a treasure chest.

His friends rescued him. They brought the treasure chest to Alberta because there are poor people there.

The friends used the treasure to make gifts for others.

Many choices Katelyn Giles was checking out the Christmas items at the Barriere IDA Pharmacy earlier this month.

The Unusual Present

By Anthony Genier Grade 2

Buzz was at the park. Suddenly, Buzz heard a strange noise.

He went to go and check it out and make sure nobody was hurt.

Buzz ran to go and check it out but he didn’t know where it was but eventually he would find it.

When he found it he saw a reindeer and he saw a sleigh. The reindeer was crying because he was lost. Buzz found a map in the sleigh. The little reindeer hadn’t learned to read yet so Buzz jumped in the sleigh to go to the North Pole.

The reindeer wasn’t supposed to have the sleigh out. He didn’t want to get into trou-

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Elli Kohnert

25

Santa Loves Christmas

Treasure

Santa was getting ready for Christmas.

When they were all ready to go Santa wanted to do something special with Mrs. Claus. They decided to go see the Northern Lights. “Northern Lights and Merry

Elf, Buzz, Dontay, Fly Guy and Kaine were at the beach playing volleyball. The volleyball accidentally got bumped into the sea. Buzz swam to get it. He looked like he was having fun so the others joined him.

We had a wonderful year, and for that, we can’t thank you enough. Your support has

By Kaine Hay Grade 2

By Chloe Smith Grade 1

Many kind thanks

25

...continued on next page

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A22 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Christmas stories ble. Buzz and the reindeer got the sleigh back and snuck it into the garage. Buzz hid himself in a present to himself and was delivered home.

The Christmas Express

By Cody Williams Grade 1

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Margaret Houben

Joy to the world Two Barriere Elementary school students sing Christmas songs during the Pentecostal Christian Life Assembly Church Christmas lunch held Dec. 9 in Barriere.

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Once upon a time there were three elves who pushed Santa around. He intends to find a plan. Santa plans to find new elves.

So that is what he is going to do. Santa continues on.

He finds an ad on TV that shows him where to find nicer elves at the South Pole.

Santa goes to the South Pole and gets 100 new elves. He brings them back to the North Pole. Santa kicks the bossy elves out.

He and the new elves make toys happily ever after.

It was a peaceful and quiet day at the North Pole. Santa was having hot cocoa.

The day before Christmas there was an avalanche at the North Pole. It covered Santa’s house in snow.

Santa was stuck inside his house and couldn’t get out to deliver presents.

A reindeer said, “The sled can’t work.”

The elves had an idea. The elves dug out Santa’s house. Santa delivered all of the presents.

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By Jaida Giles Grade 1

At Santa’s first house he went down the chimney and something surprising happened. Someone was knocking on the door. Santa answered the door and it was just the reindeer. The reindeer were just stomping on the roof.

Anyway Santa was done delivering the presents at this house and was going to his next house. He went on his sleigh and he flew and he crashed on a farm.

The farmer got out of his house and Santa said, “Sorry.”

The farmer said, “It’s okay. We need to get your sleigh fixed and I will fix your presents.

When the farmer was done fixing the presents he helped Santa. Santa was able to deliver his presents.

The Christmas Ghost

By Thomas Tremblay Grade 2

Once upon a time there was a Christmas ghost.

Mrs. McGravey and Thomas were cleaning the classroom. The Christmas ghost went into the classroom to see what was happening. When he did that a whole bunch of stuff fell on him.

This scared Mrs. McGravey and Thomas.

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be scared I’m a nice ghost. I will help you clean the classroom.”

So the three of them worked together and the classroom was all clean.

The Magic Ice Skates

By Andrew Harris, grade 3, Miss Dunston

Once upon a time there was a boy named Owen. He really wanted a pair of rocket ice skates. He went to the store to get a pair with his dad and brother Nate. But Nate was obsessed with hockey and Nate wanted all the gear. When Owen saw the skates his dad said no.

Then Owen saw a strange old man. The strange old man gave Owen a pair of ice skates and whispered they’re magic. Then Owen went home, he hid them under his bed.

Then his mom asked him if he wanted to go skating, but Owen said he had lost his skates. Then Owen’s dog got the skates from under the bed. Then Owen had to go skating.

At the ice rink Owen kept on falling down. A girl offered Owen a chair but Owen said no.

Then Owen said, “I wish I was good at skating”. Then Owen was good at skating!

The end.

The Christmas Invasion of Bald Guy

By Andrew Harris

Once upon a time Santa and his elves, Sawyer, Quinn and his Sergeant elf Jojo went to the workshop to make more toys, but when they got there they found a nasty surprise! Santa and his elves saw there were no presents!

Then they saw a strange man in a purple suit with a ‘b’ on it.

The man said his name was Bald Guy and that he stole the presents.

“Mwa ha ha ah!” said Bald Guy. Then Santa got angry. The Bald Guys minions took the toy maker!

Then Santa got an idea! So Santa asked Clause to make him a suit for the elves and to make him a suit from the minions.

When Santa and the elves got their suits, they put them on and headed for Bald Guy manor.

When Santa, Sawyer, Quinn and Jojo reached Bald Guy manor it was at least 30 feet tall!

When Santa, Sawyer, Quinn and Jojo reached the top of Bald Guy manor they were exhausted, then they found some milk and cookies!

“Yum, Yum!” said Santa, as he gobbled up the cookies.

After Santa was done his share of cookies, he gave three cookies to Sawyer, Quinn and Jojo. When the crew was done their snacks, they spoiled Bald Guys plans and put Bald Guy in jail.

After Santa, Sawyer, Quinn and Jojo got home, they all lived happily ever after!

James gives a present

By Ashley Docherty

It was four days till Christmas and James Haring was the only one in his family who has not bought a present for his little sister Mary Ann. He was worried that he wouldn’t be able to get a present in time, so that afternoon he went to his mom and asked, “Mom, do you know what Mary Ann likes?”

“She likes frogs” said James and Mary Ann’s mother, and then James turned ...continued on next page

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

www.starjournal.net A23

Christmas stories around and went upstairs to his room.

The next morning at breakfast time he went to his dad and asked, “Dad, do you know what Mary Ann likes?”

And so his dad thought for a while, “well she likes pickles, that’s for sure.”

Then James went and got his coat on and he and his sister went to school. When they arrived at the elementary school, Mary Ann went and played on the swings, but for James it was too cold out so he went in the school to go read in his class, but when he got in the school he saw Mary Ann’s best friend Francine Storm.

He went up to her and asked, “Francine, do you know what Mary Ann likes?”

She looked at him with a smile and said “of course I do, she likes the colour pink”, then she turned around and headed into her classroom.

After school James asked his mother if they could go to the store because he was sure he knew what his sister wanted now and also it was Christmas eve tomorrow. They went shopping and James got everything he needed for the present, he got the wrapping for the present and even a candy cane for himself, now he was ready for tomorrow.

It’s Christmas eve and everyone put their gifts that they bought under the tree.

“James, Mary Ann it’s time to go to bed, Santa’s coming” said James and Mary Ann’s mother, so they went off to bed and in their sleep they dreamt about the beautiful day they would have tomorrow.

The next morning everyone woke up bright and early because they knew it

was Christmas day and that had delivered presents while they dreamt of carols and presents and delicious appetizing treats.

Down the stairs ran Mary Ann and James both with joyful merry faces staring at the presents everyone was so excited to see what they got.

After they opened all the presents Santa gave them, it was time to exchange presents.

Mary Ann gave the one she bought James first, it was a fuzzy red wool sweater. Then James gave Mary Ann her present, he was so excited to hear what she was going to say about it when she opened it, It was a frog and a jar of pickles with a pink ribbon on top.

For a while Mary Ann just sat there with a sad face, then she started to cry. James thought he got the worst present in the world and also that he made it the worst Christmas Mary Ann will have in her whole life. But when James was just about to leave the room, Mary Ann jumped up and gave him a big hug, he didn’t know what was happening.

“I thought that you were crying because this is the worst Christmas gift you have ever had” said James.

But Mary Ann said “No I’m crying be-

cause you got everything I like”.

Then she smiled and they sang Christmas carols and ate their Christmas feast, this was definitely the best Christmas gift ever.

My New Skates

By Bobby-Raye Farrow Grade 2, Mrs Peterson’s class

We went to bed on Christmas Eve. Then we woke up. We heard a jingle and we went to the window. We saw Saint Nick flying by with a big bag of presents. He came down the chimney. We ran back to our beds. We were so scared we would have nothing but coal.

The next morning all we had was... toys!

We waited until our family came in the door. We ripped open our presents it was the best Christmas ever.

I got a pair of skates. I ran out the door. I put them on and jumped on the ice. Then to my surprise, I started to fly, in the sky. It was very scary at first, but then

it began to be fun. After a while I wanted to go home. I was getting cold, my mom and dad were worried. I could hear them calling me, “Bobbie-Raye, BobbyRaye”. The only thing was that I could not get down. So I took off my skates, I fell to the ground.

I was O.K.

Beautiful works Darlene Hagen, a Barriere resident and fiber arts crafter, looks over some of the impressive work that was offered for sale at the Candlelight and Holly Christmas Gift Gallery held earlier this month in the Legion basement hall.

The Candy Bandit

By Brayden York

It was morning and Jojo got out of bed and he went to the tree and there was no present, just a note. Jojo picked up the note and it said “I took your present. From the Candy Bandit”.

Jojo was not happy, but he saw foot prints, so Jojo followed the foot prints and it led him to a brick wall and a door opened, and Jojo went in and he saw a bunch of presents on the ground. He saw the candy bandit.

The candy bandit was tall, he was mean, he was not nice. He had ripped clothes and Jojo said, “why are ...continued on next page

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Elli Kohnert

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A24 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Christmas stories Part of Santa’s clean up crew Lion’s club member Norval Anderson, was one of the many Lion’s Club members who volunteered to help present the Breakfast With Santa event at the Lions Hall on Dec. 12.

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Jill Hayward

you taking all the presents?”

The candy bandit said, “I’m taking the presents to make Christmas go away.”

And Jojo said, “why don’t you like Christmas?”

The candy bandit said “I’m taking the presents so I can have all them to myself.”

And Jojo was not happy. So he left and when it was night Jojo came back with the candy police and they got the candy bandit and put him in candy jail and Jojo got all the presents and Jojo gave all the presents back and the candy bandit was never heard from again.

Runner the Reindeer

By Brooke Hartman

This is my story of my favourite Christmas. It was too cold for me to go outside, so I guess I will just have to sit by the fire and write my letter to Santa.

Dear Santa, How are you these

Christian Life Assembly

December 24 • 6pm Pastor Lance Naylor 4818 Amnesty Road 250-672-0111 www.clabarriere.org

St. George’s Roman Catholic Church December 25 • 9am January 1 • 9am

On all S E C I V ER S

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

days? And how are those elves of yours?

Hopefully you’re not working them too hard. So to get on with this letter, I was wondering if you could get me my own baby reindeer for Christmas.

I want a baby because they are way cuter. I want him to be like Rudolph, but have a big bright blue nose and big sparkling green eyes. Also, I want him to be called Runner.

From Little Jimmy “Mom, I am done my letter now, can I mail it now?”

“Sure honey, we can walk there right now,” my mom said.

On our way there we talked about what was in my letter, but I wouldn’t tell her, I said it was going to be a surprise, a big surprise.

She kept asking, but I still refused to tell her.

When we got home, I went upstairs to start drawing a picture of what I was hoping Runner would look like. I drew a baby reindeer with big sparkling green eyes and a big bright blue nose.

Perfect, I said, Now the finishing touch. A collar with the name Runner on it.

When I had finished drawing, I couldn’t stop thinking about how excited I would be when I got Runner on Christmas day, so I tried to stay awake, but I dozed off.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Father Donal O’Reilly 5024 Barriere Town Road 250-672-5949

Church of St. Paul

JEREMY REID YOUR NORTH THOMPSON SPECIALIST

Rev. Brian Krushel 4464 Barriere Town Road 250-672-5653 www.norththompsonpc.ca

We couldn’t ask for better customers. Thanks so much for your business and have a happy holiday season.

December 24 • 7pm

Jeremy Reid

258 Seymour St., Kamloops, BC

250-374-3331 • Fax 250-828-9544 jeremyreid@remax.net

Three hours later, at 5:30 a.m., I was awakened by something that was licking my face. I opened my eyes and there it was, a baby reindeer with a big bright blue nose and big sparkling green eyes. Also, it had a tag around it that said ‘my name is Runner’.

“Runner!

Mom, mom, mom come quick!”

“What honey, it’s 5:30 a.m., you shouldn’t be awake yet,” my mom told me.

“But mom, look, Santa got me just what I asked for.”

“A reindeer?” she said shockingly.

“Yes, a reindeer.”

“Oh, um, okay then.”

“Why are you so confused, you know me, of course I want a reindeer, who wouldn’t?”

“Um, me, I wouldn’t.”

“Why not?”

“I wouldn’t want a reindeer because having a reindeer is a lot of work.”

“Well, I believe in myself, I know I can do it.”

“Okay, good luck.”

After my conversation with my mom, Runner and I went upstairs. We made a red soft fluffy rectangle shaped bed for Runner, sewed a stuffed candy cane to help runner sleep, and drew pictures of Christmas stuff like stockings, families spending time together, and of course Santa.

After we were done, Runner really wanted to go outside, so we did.

Burr, it was cold out there. Runner really liked it out there, so we stayed out for quite a while. I was shivering but Runner was making snow angels.

Runner forced me to do something instead of just standing there shivering. So we went

tobogganing, skating and made some more snow angels.

But my favourite part was after when we went inside and drank hot chocolate.

“Have you changed your mind about Runner yet?” my mom asked.

“No!” “Okay.”

“It’s not hard at all to take care of a reindeer.”

“Really?”

“Yes, really.”

“Well have you fed him yet?”

“Kind of, I gave him hot chocolate.”

“Is that it?”

“Um, wait, no, he ate some snow but that was it.”

“Okay, well just wait till it’s lunch time.”

“Why will lunch time be such a big deal?”

“What will he eat?”

“I don’t know, whatever you make, he’s not a fussy reindeer.”

“Okay.”

Three years later....

My mom didn’t think I would be able to look after Runner this long, but I did.

It was now 5:30 a.m., December 31st, exactly the day and time I received Runner, when Santa re-appeared.

“Little Jimmy, how are you?” Santa asked me.

“Good. How about you?”

“Back’s a little sore from carrying my sack full of toys, but other than that, good.”

“So what brings you here, Santa?”

“Well, I have seen little Runner has grown big and strong.: “Yeah.”

“Well, I need him this Christmas to lead the sleigh.”

“What about Rudolph?”

“He is sick.”

“Oh.” “Yeah.”

“Will you return ...continued on page 26

North Thompson Star/Journal Thursday, December 19, 2013

www.starjournal.net A25

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A26 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Christmas stories

him after Christmas?”

“I will return him after Rudolph is feeling better.”

“Okay. See you in a couple weeks, Runner.”

And that was the story of my favourite Christmas. Hope you liked it.

My Christmas Story

By Bryce Welz

Once upon a time there was a little boy named Bob. Now Bob wasn’t the normal average kid, Bob was an elf. The kind of elf that made presents for all the little

kids. One day while Bob was at the toy factory...

“BOB! What do you think you are doing!” John elf said.

“I’m making a new invention so that the present wrapper could go faster.” Bob says.

“Well that is a great idea but it would be better if you were making presents!”

John elf yells.

“Yes boss...” Bob says sadly.

As all the other elves get back to work, one of the elves realize that one of the elves are missing. Who could it be? Ah Ha! It’s Bob.

So where is Bob elf you may be wondering? Well, why don’t we find out.

During lunch break Bob snuck out and went to John’s hut. But why is he there in the first place? Well, let’s find out why he is there.

As Bob is looking for an extra key to get into John’s hut, but he doesn’t realize that the door is unlocked. So he goes to the door and tries it and as soon as he got into the house, everything shuts down.

All of a sudden Bob hears sirens outside. He looks outside the window and sees the Chief of the E.P.D. “Elf Police Department”. Bob goes and opens the

door to let the Chief in but as soon as he got in he asked Bob if he could ask him a few questions.

Bob said “Sure you can.”

The first question that he asked was “Why did you sneak into Mr. Butter-Gingers hut?” Chief asked.

“Well...” Bob pushed the Chief to the side and made a break for it.

As Bob is running away, the Chief calls in more recruits, they all come in full pursuit...

Meanwhile at the toy factory, Lexy elf is looking around the factory for ...continued on page 29

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North Thompson Star/Journal Thursday, December 19, 2013

Celebrating 36 Years

1 tbsp butter 2/3 -3/4 cup shredded mozzarella 2 tbsps shredded Parmesan Defrost spinach. Rinse & set aside.

In a large pan, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add onions & cook until starting to soften, about 2 mins. Add in garlic & celery & cook until fragrant, about 3 more mins.

Add in broth & bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low & stir in stuffing mix. Cook until stuffing mix is softened & the broth has been absorbed. Remove from heat & stir in spinach & mozzarella until mixture is fully combined.

Garnish with shredded Parmesan & enjoy!

Mini Sausage Wreaths mini sausages refrigerated crescent dough rolls red bell pepper diced rosemary 1/3 cup butter 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

By Dee

1/2 cup whole berry cranberry sauce Preheat the oven to the temperature specified on the package of crescent dough rolls. Drain the liquid off of the mini sausages. Unroll the dough & separate at perforations creating 4 rectangles. Press together the remaining perforation in each rectangle. With a knife or pizza cutter, cut each rectangle lengthwise into 8 strips making a total of 32. Wrap 1 strip of dough around each sausage.

Lay out the wrapped sausages with their sides touching on an ungreased cookie sheet in a circle forming a wreath. Bake for 11-15 mins or until golden brown. Melt 1/3 cup of butter & brush the butter on top of the wrapped sausages.

Sprinkle the rosemary on top. Cut a red bell pepper into a bow shape for garnish. Combine the BBQ sauce & cranberry sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until heated through. Serve with wreath for dipping.

Each week a group or volunteer(s) are recognized in this space for their contribution to our community.

If you, your service organization or group would like to recognize an individual please call the North Thompson Volunteer and Information Centre at 672-0033.

Yellowhead 4-H Club

By Dee

Cheesy Spinach Stuffing 10 oz frozen spinach 4 cups herb stuffing mix 1-1/3 cups chicken broth 1/2 cup chopped red onion 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1/2 cup chopped celery liberal dashes salt & pepper

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Festive Feta Cheese Ball 2 pkgs (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 2 tsps ranch salad dressing mix 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon 1/2 tsp dill weed In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add feta cheese & dressing mix; mix well. Shape into a ball. In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, bacon & dill weed; roll cheese ball in Parmesan mixture. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm. Serve with crackers.

www.starjournal.net A27

This group promotes leadership, responsibility and good citizenship.

They participate in the North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo and Provincial Winter Fair each fall. Special events include: district judging rally in May, barbecues, fun events and learning experiences.

They meet on the first Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. at the Barriere Legion, downstairs. All youth ages 6-21 are welcome to join.

For more information, contact Glenda Feller at 250-672-0139.

THANK YOU!!

Dec. A p r i 19 l 2-3 Dec. - 2 925, , 22013 012 Capricorn, This week is you all will ride creative wave abouta give and take, for the next Capricorn.

Doseveral for days. others,Inspiration and they will will do forstrike you. Awhen specialyou least You event expect calls forit. some should havegifts. some extra-special December 22– time for play.

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Aquarius, Some habitsexpect are hard some support from to break, Aquarius. family Look tomembers a mentor to and friends. help close and you will Receive gensucceed. Atheir fitness erosity as warmly goal is easily achieved aswith youa new can,piece evenofif you’re feeling a bit equipment. smothered.

Pisces, canbebe easy The oddsitmay tostacked get swept againstaway you, by other Pisces, butpeople’s that doesn’t agendas you mean youwhen won’t come attempt lend a out on topto with a little helping Do ingenuity.hand.

A weekend your bestrequires to pitch endeavor a February 19– in. leap of faith.

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Aries, handle Speak up, Aries,some and unfinished busithe problem will be ness andA little establish solved. miracle clear priorities. at home makes for an Otherwise, you may interesting weekend. turn Travelwhat planscould come be atogether. productive week into something frustrating.

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Gemini, don’t be Feeling blessed shy sharing theseabout days, Gemini? unique plans Awith Pay it forward. your loved ones. compromise at homeThe support of friends raises everyone’s and family spirits and funmembers ensues will only restore all weekend long! your confidence in August 23– this new direction.

September 22

COMMUNITY EVENTS & SERVICES

250-674-2674 Dec 19 - It’s Christmas, Carol!, play by BES students, afternoon performance 12:30pm, evening performance 6:30pm. Entry by donation to Food Bank.

Dec 20 - Caroling at the Bandshell, 6-7pm, hot coco & cookies to follow. Everyone welcome!

Dec 21 - Winter Farmers Market, 10am-1pm @ Sam’s Pizza.

Dec 22 - NT Com. Chorus - Christmas Carols Through the Ages, 3pm @ Pentecostal CLA church.

Dec 22 - Community Carol Sing, 7pm @ St. Paul’s Dec 31 - New Year’s Eve celebration @ Legion.

Dec 31 - New Year’s Eve Bullarama @ NT Agriplex Jan 9 - ‘Making your money last’. Free seminar from Edward Jones open for any age group, refreshments & snacks provided. Volunteer Centre 6:30pm.

Jan 11 - Winter Farmers Market, 10am-1pm @ Sam’s Pizza.

Jan 18 - Al Fortin’s Citizen of the year banquet, 6pm @ Legion hall, downstairs.

Jan 25 - Winter Farmers Market, 10am-1pm @ Sam’s Pizza.

Jan 25 - Cashless Craft Swap. 12:30-2:30 NTVIC Feb 8 - Winter Farmers Market, 10am-1pm @ Sam’s Pizza.

June 22– July 22

July 23– August 22

Expect your ideas to A business relationship take shape blossoms withover an the next couple of days, addition.

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October 23– no problem leading November 21 the way.

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Feb 22 - Winter Farmers Market, 10am-1pm @ Sam’s Pizza.

Army Cadets - 2941 RCACC Cadet Corp. - ages 12-18.

New Recruits Welcome. Marc 672-9681.

Baha’i Night: Fri., 7:30pm, @ Marge Mitchell’s 672-5615.

Adult Day Program: Mon. & Wed. 9-2. Lunch, crafts & music at the Seniors Ctr. Sherry Jardine 672-5121 Barriere & District Heritage Society: 3rd Wed. of mth, 1pm at NTVIC in the winter, at Museum in the summer.

Riding Club: Jan-Mar: 3rd Sun. 1pm; Apr-Oct: 3rd Thurs.

7pm at NTVIC. www.barrieredistrictridingclub.com.

Darcey 250-318-9975.

Cancer Support: 672-9263, 672-0017 or 672-1890 Choir: Thurs. @ Christian Life Assembly, Annesty Rd. Youth 7-18 3:30pm; Adults 19+ 6:30pm. Leah 250-957-8440.

Curling Club: Oct.-Mar. Curling, league & bonspiels.

Drop In Art. Fridays 11:30am-2:30pm at NTVIC end of Sep to Mar (except holidays). Nominal fee.

Barriere Elementary PAC: 1st Wed. of mth, 6:30pm, call 672-9916 or Leesa Genier at 320-3629.

Barriere Fire Dept.: Firehall, Thurs., 7pm Barriere Food Bank: Wednesdays. Message 672-0029

Genealogy: Every 1st & 3rd Friday of the mth at the Library, 6-7pm, except Jul/Aug. 250-672-9330.

Barriere Hospice: Loans out handicap equip - call 250672-9391.

Photography Club. All welcome. Shelley Lampreau 250-672-5728.

Community Quilters: 2nd & 4th Thurs. of mth, 2pm at the Barriere Food Bank. Judy 250-672-5275 or Fran 250-672-2012.

Barriere Search & Rescue: 2nd Tues. of mth, 7pm.

Training on 4th Tues. of mth, 7pm.

BSS PAC & Booster Club: 1st Tues. of mth, 5:30pm.

250-672-9943.

Survivors of Brain Injuries: John 250-372-1799.

Bethany Baptist Church Prayer: Every Tues., 7pm.

Carpet Bowling: Mon, Wed, & Fri., 9:30am-12 @ Little Fort Hall.

Community Kitchen: If interested call Dede 554-3134.

Community Soup Day: Christian Life Assembly on Annesty Rd. 3rd Mon. of every mth, 11:30 am.

Crib: Mon. & Fri. 1-4pm @ Little Fort Hall.

Crib: Barriere Legion 242, every Thurs. 7pm, Sept. to May. Darts: Barriere Legion 242, Thurs. 7pm, Sept. to May.

Gambler’s Anonymous: 250-374-9165 or 250-3749866.

Heffley Creek Acoustic Coffee House: 3rd Fri. every mth 7pm. Call 578-0056.

Literacy Tutoring: Learn to read FREE. Jill Hayward 3198023.

Little Fort Recreation Society: 1st Thurs. each mth 7pm LNT Catholic Women’s League: 2nd Mon. each mth, 7pm at St. George’s. Call 250-672-9330 for info.

McLure Rec.: 1st Wed. each mth at 7:30pm McLure Firehall. Except Jul & Aug. 250-578-7565 for info.

McLure Fire Dept.: 2nd & 4th Tues., 7pm, McLure Firehall Men’s Floor Hockey: Tues., 8-10pm at Barriere Sec. NT Fish & Game Club: 4th Mon. each mth 7pm NTVIC. 672-1843 NT Valley Hospice: 3rd Tues, 11am, Little Fort Hall.

672-5660.

Quilting: 1st Tues of the mth, 10am @ Little Fort Hall.

Safe Home: Get away from domestic abuse, call 250674-2135 (Clw) or 250-682-6444 (Barriere).

Walk & Fitness: Indoors, Tues & Thurs 12-2pm. Barriere Ridge Gym.

A28 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star Journal

Your community. Your classifieds.

250.672.5611 Travel

Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9am -5pm 359 Borthwick Ave. Box 1020, Barriere BC V0E 1Eo

Ph: 250.672.5611 • Fax: 250.672.9900

CLASSIFIED RATES AND DEADLINES

Special Rates: 3 Weeks; $22.15 + GST

Timeshare

Help Wanted

Ofce Support

Financial Services

Financial Services

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.

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.

IF YOU own a home or real estate, Alpine Credits can lend you money: It’s That Simple.

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

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

Travel

Happy Occasions: Happy Birthday, Happy Anniversary, etc.

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

Display Ads: Mondays 12pm

It is the policy of The Star/Journal and Free Ads: Lost, Found, The Times to receive pre-payment on all Student Work Wanted classified advertisements.

Free ads maximum 15 words Ads may be submitted by phone if will run 2 consecutive weeks. 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 and your ad goes into The Times FREE Regular Rate: 8.50 + GST Maximum 15 words .20c per word extra

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

GENERAL LABOURERS

OIL & GAS INDUSTRY GUARANTEED Job Placement

• Labourers • Tradesmen • Class 1 Drivers

CENTURY PLAZA HOTEL Best Rates. 1.800.663.1818 century-plaza.com

Employment

Drivers/Courier/ Trucking 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.

Education/Trade Schools 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

We’re on the net at www.bcclassified.com Help Wanted

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

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

Trades, Technical 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.

Work Wanted 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.

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.

Please call Annemarie 1.800.661.6335 email: fish@blackpress.ca

Personals

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

Business Opportunities

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 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

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

Two year edition- terrific presence for your business.

fax 250.672.9900 email office@starjournal.net Services Services Employment

Services

Hotel, Restaurant, Food Services

Financial 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.

ANNACIS ISLAND Pawnbrokers open ‘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

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

TRU invites applications for the following position: 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.

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

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

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

North Thompson Star Journal Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

Services

Merchandise for Sale

Rentals

Transportation

Legal Services

$100 & Under

Apt/Condo for Rent

Auto Financing

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

Two male song canaries.

Complete w/lg cage and all necessary equipment.

Call 250-587-6373

CLEARWATER, 1-Br @ Woodside. Quiet, clean, updated.

Common laundry.

NS/NP, DD + refs. $575/mo.

604-790-2482

Photography / Video

For Sale: Farm raised frozen free range chickens, $3.75/lb.

Contact Rainer Custom Cutting, 250-672-9629 or www.rainercustomcutting.com.

Need a professional

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

PHOTOS

by Keith McNeill

Digital and film photographs.

Phone 250-674-3252 or email:kmcneill@mercuryspeed.com

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

Pets & Livestock

Feed & Hay 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.

Bob.  She is looking up, down, and even left and right.  While she is searching for Bob, all the other elves are making toys and electronics for all the kids on the nice list around the world.  Let’s go back to Bob and see how he is doing...

As Bob is running full speed to go find a place to hide, he gets blocked off by one of the police cars that are made of gingerbread cook-

Food Products

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

Clearwater: Immed occupancy 2 bdrm MH, covered deck, fenced yd. Ref + DD $325, rent $650/mo incl water, sewer & garbage. Ph. 250-587-6373

Mobile Home for Sale downtown Barriere: 66’x12’, 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

Worship Sunday 11:00 A worshipping community of Anglicans, United & Lutherans

All Are Welcome

the Rev. Brian Krushel

autocredit 911

Office: 250 672-5653 www.norththompsonpc.ca

Homes for Rent

ST. GEORGE’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Sunday Mass - 9am Wednesday, Friday & Saturday Mass - 9am

Clearwater: 1243 Bain Rd. 3 bdrm, 3-level, 2 bath, wood pellet heat, 10 acre lot. Avail Dec. 1. $1200/mo + util.

Ph. 403-816-7979 Clearwater: 3 bdrm, 2.5 bath, newly reno’d, close to schools, medical center, Weyerhaeuser Sub. Avail Jan. 1. Please call 1-250-600-3885

Barriere: 2 bdrm bsmt suite.

F/S. W/D. Avail Jan. 1 $600/mo + DD. Ref req.

Ph. 250-672-2494

Mobile Homes & Parks

4464 Barriere Town Road

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.

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

Real Estate

CHURCH OF ST. PAUL

Mobile Homes & Pads

Suites, Lower

Used Postage Stamps

CHURCH DIRECTORY

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.

Misc. Wanted

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.

www.starjournal.net A29 www.starjournal.net A29

Father Donal O’Reilly

Ph 672-5949 • Fax 672-5974 CHRISTIAN LIFE ASSEMBLY 4818 Annesty Rd. (Across from High School) 9:30am Adult Sunday School 10:30am Sunday Service and Children’s Sunday School Pastor: Lance Naylor 672-0111 www.clabarriere.org

FIND A FRIEND

THE OPEN DOOR

Barriere: 2 bdrm bsmt suite, FS/WD. Avail Jan 1. $600/mo + DD. RR. 250-672-2494

FELLOWSHIP

Birch Island: 2bdrm suite. $600/mo. Incl sat tv, utilities & laundry. Available Dec. 1.

Ph. 250-674-1768

11:00 am Sundays at the Ridge Bible Study on Tuesdays at 1pm PASTOR TODD ENGLISH Join us for refreshments after the Service.

4HERE S MORE TO LOSE THAN JUST

Phone 250-672-1864 anytime.

Affiliated with North American Baptist Association. “Believe in the Lord Jesus - and you will be saved.� (Acts 16:31)

MEMORIES

This Crossword Sponsored by

Cars - Domestic WWW ALZHEIMERBC ORG

2004 Buick Lesabre 83,000 km, 4 dr Sedan, navy blue, 6 cyl, auto, summers/winters mounted. $4,000.00 Ph. 250-674-3264

WELLS GRAY HOME HARDWARE 86 STATION RD., CLEARWATER

674-3717

Christmas stories

ies. Â Bob starts running the other way until he realizes that he is trapped. Â With two police cars on each side of him, you would think that he would give up right there but out of the corner of his eye he sees a ladder on the side of a building so he starts climbing it. Â The police are telling Bob to give up but he just ignores them and continues climbing up the ladder. Â One of the police

man thought that if he isn’t going to give up, then I will chase after him.  Meanwhile at the toy shop...

Lexy elf found a clue of where Bob went.  She found his foot print in the snow.  So Lexy elf went to Jolly old St. Nick, to tell him that Bob has ran off and that she couldn’t find him and even the other elves couldn’t find him.  Now back to Bob...

The police officer is hot on Bob’s tail.  As Bob slows down, the officer catches up and eventually catches Bob.  The officer brings Bob back to his police car and drives him to the gingerbread house court.  The judge asks if he could ask him a few questions. “Why were you in Mr. Butter-Fingers hut?� Judge asks. “Reasons that you don’t need to know.�

Bob says rudely. “If you don’t tell

me, you will be sentenced five years in the eggnog jail.�

Judge says. “Well, I was in his hut because, I thought it was my hut.  I guess I was drunk on eggnog!�

Bob laughs. “Thank you, Bob.  Now you have two choices, you could go to jail for one year or you can leave the North Pole.  What’s your choice?� Judge asks. “I choose to go to jail for one year be-

cause this is where I belong!� Bob says.

The officers lead Bob to his cell that he will be staying in.  Let’s go see how Santa and the other elves are doing...

All the elves are packing the presents into Santa’s big old red sack.  Santa is worried that this Christmas is going to be a disaster, with out his co-pilot, he will never be able to do it.  As Santa is reading the paper from today, he reads an article

Seventh-day Adventists

Meet in the Church of Saint Paul on Saturday Mornings Bible Study - 9:30am Worship Service - 11am Fellowship Meal - 12:30pm Everyone Welcome 318-0545

about an elf going to jail for breaking into someone’s hut.  Then he realizes... it’s Bob!  It is Bob in the pictures.  So Santa gets dressed really quickly and tells all the elves to hurry up packing all the presents and get the reindeer all set up.  Santa tells Lexy elf that she can come with him to bail out Bob.  So they fly quickly to the eggnog jail to get ...continued on page 30

A30 www.starjournal.net

to the eggnog jail to get Bob. They get there and get to Bob’s jail cell and unlock it to free him.

“Thank you, Santa!”

Bob says repeatedly.

“You’re welcome, now enough with the thank you’s, let’s go deliver presents.” Santa says.

So Bob, Lexy and Santa go and deliver presents around the world to all the little girls and boys. When they got back, they had an excellent turkey dinner with gravy and mashed potatoes and of course, cranberry sauce. The whole crew up at the North Pole had a great Christmas with a great dinner, ice hockey, carolling and of course Santa and Mrs. Claus had a big smooch under the mistletoe.

The Christmas Disaster

By Jojo Coughlin

Once upon a time there was a boy named DJ. It was close to Christmas time and DJ called his friends to hang out. DJ’s friends names were Rock, Quinn and Sawyer.

By the time they all got to DJ’s house it was dark. They played video games for a while. Then they heard a knock on the window. No one was there. Then Rocky said “hey, what’s the big deal about Christmas, I mean there’s no point.”

Then they heard a laugh. Then everyone except DJ was saying Christmas was bad. DJ had no idea why everybody hated Christmas. He heard another laugh. It was some guy in a purple suit with a blue LD on it.

DJ said “who.. who are you?”

“I’m the purple destroyer.”

“What did you do to everybody?”

“Well I took their Christmas spirit of course.”

“Why would you do that?”

“Because I’m evil”,

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

Christmas stories

then he swooshed away.

Well, that guy was rude. He came back the next day and asked DJ, “why didn’t it work on you?”

“Because my Christmas spirit is too strong,” said DJ. The purple destroyer left.

Then Santa showed up. “My sleigh won’t fly.”

DJ asked Santa why his sleigh won’t fly.

“It runs on Christmas spirit and no one has any,” said Santa.

“Well I sure do,” said DJ. “Do you know why no one has Christmas spirit?” asked Santa.

“Well, there’s this guy in a purple suit, I forget his name,” said DJ. “I have an idea.”

“What is it?” asked Santa.

“We outsmart him into giving Christmas spirit back,” explained DJ. “Let’s go,” yelled Santa.

“Mom, dad, we’re going to get Christmas spirit back,” said DJ. “Thanks for telling us,” said dad.

“There’s the purple guy,” said DJ. “There’s the button that gives Christmas spirit back, let’s put this sticker I bought that says ‘stop people trying to ruin your evil plan’. Let’s put it on the button.” goes DJ. Okay then 20 seconds later, “it’s done”, said DJ. He’s going to press it. Yes, he pressed it.

“I’ll call the cops,” said Santa.

“You’ll pay for this,” yelled the purple destroyer.

Then we all lived happily every after, except the purple destroyer.

The Small Christmas Tree

By Kayla Chrystall

Once upon a time there was a family. There was a mom and a dad and a little girl named Maya. Maya loved Christmas. It was her favourite time of the

year. She couldn’t wait to get a Christmas tree.

One day her mom told her that they were going to get a Christmas tree. She was happy, but when they go there, all they saw was a small tree. But she wanted a big one. So they got it anyway.

When they got home it was a perfect fit. Maya called her friends, when her friends knocked on her door. Her friends helped decorate the Christmas tree.

Merry Christmas.

Christmas Miracle

By Meghan Booth

Once upon a time there lived an elf named Billy J. He wasn’t an ordinary elf, he was the smallest elf in Santa’s workshop.

Billy J lived a terrible life in the workshop because everyone made fun of him and told him he didn’t fit in with all the bigger elves.

Billy thought to himself and said maybe, just maybe a miracle would happen this Christmas! Then he thought again and said “I have made that same wish every year... who am I kidding. I’m never going to change. But I might as well give it a try.”

The next day was Christmas eve and Billy new just what to do. He walked into the workshop more confident than ever and said “Santa! I really need to talk to you. I’m not trying to bring you out of the busiest night of the year, but I really need you.”

As the other elves began to laugh, “Quiet!”

Santa yelled. “Billy J is just as important as all of you so GET BACK TO WORK!” He yelled as he slammed the door to his office. “What Billy, what do you possibly need on Christmas eve?”

“Well... Santa I just want to be the same as all the other elves!”

“Billy J, I’m not a wizard, I can’t just change who you are. You should be proud of

what you have.”

“What Santa, what do I have?”

“You have life Billy, be proud of that.”

“But I can’t,” Billy screamed, “everybody teases me and I can’t take it any more!”

“Well”, Santa said, “if you are patient and let me deliver all of these presents, I promise when I get back I will deal with those curley toed elves, okay?”

“Do you promise?”

Billy said.

“Yes, Billy, I never break my promises!”

So Billy walked out of the office with a big grin on his face as the other elves started to get confused.

That night as all the children began to fall asleep, Santa knew it was time to take off!

After hours and hours went by, Santa arrived from the big trip and said, “elves, I need to talk to all of you.”

They all hopped out of their seats and said, “yes Santa.”

“Well, Billy J has had a really rough time in this workshop and we are all supposed to be a family around here! I am not gonna have you guys continuing to be mean to Billy. He was born like that and we are all going to treat him like we should treat each other! AGREED!” Santa yelled.

“YES”, all the elves burst out after.

As days passed by, all the elves treated Billy how he wanted to be treated for years, and he said “thank you Santa, I couldn’t have done it without you!”

Where Did Christmas Go

By Cadence Beeton

One day in a very happy town where I live, me and Shelby were going to school. Then we got to school, the word Christmas was.... gone, stolen, something (gasp).

Who has stolen the word Christmas?

Just six more sleeps until Christmas! “Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!”

Nobody knows, then the teacher said, “I think I know.”

“Who, Ms. Snow!”

“Linda the word queen,” oh no!

Me and Shelby set off to get Christmas back. we searched and searched. Then we found three letters CIA. “That’s part of it, look Shelby, a trail, let’s follow it.”

So we did, we found out who did it, so we told Ms. Snow who did it and she was right. Then Linda got arrested. Then we got the word Christmas back. Cadence and Shelby found it, yay.

puts magic on Mr. Allan from steeling presents. Then Mr. Allan stopped steeling presents. So Mr. Allan gives all the presents back and me, my mom and dad had a good Christmas, and Mr. Allan did too.

Mr. Allan lived with us. We had fun, we opened our presents.

I left milk and cookies. He left me a note that said thank you for the milk and cookies.

I hope this year is going to be a good Christmas. I am going to make presents for my family.

The Magic Skates

By Gabriella Genier

By Cameron Salle Grade 3, Mrs. Matthews

Once upon a time Santa was just getting ready to leave Christmas Eve, but he saw glittery magic over a hill, so he went over there and he was so excited, they were magic ice skates!

He put them on and skated away. He laughed, “I’ll get all those presents in no time at all.”

The Christmas Problem

By Cy Celesta

Santa

comes

and

Roudalf Helps Santa Roudalf was so excited to get ready for Christmas.

Prancer wanted to go in front of all the other reindeer. Santa did not let him go in front. Prancer was jealous. So Roudalf was looking for Santa but could not find him. So he went to the factory room. No one was there.

“Where is everybody?” No one answered.

So Roudalf went to the hot chocolate break room. All of the elves

were having a party.

“Hay everybody!” All the elves looked. “Where is Santa?”

“He is getting all of the toys in the sleigh.”

“Oh, my gosh. Prancer is about to be in front of me if I do not get there before he gets the magical harness. See you guys later. Oh, and get back to work. We need some toys for next Christmas.”

“Oh, we mean yes sir Roudalf.”

“Oh thank goodness,” said Santa. “Where have you been.”

“I was in the hot chocolate break room.”

“Doing what?”

“Telling the elves to get back, stop partying, and get back to work.”

“You did that. Well, I wonder who told them that they could party.”

“I do not know, Santa,” said Roudalf.

“Okay, it was me”, said Prancer. “I was going to blame it on Roudalf. I am really sorry Roudalf.”

“I accept your apology, but please do not do it again.”

“Okay, I will not.” ...stories to be continued in our next issue.

North Thompson Star/Journal December 19, 2013

www.starjournal.net A31

Breakfast with Santa scrapbook

Tim Clarke helps his daughter Tahlia make Christmas crafts.

(Above) Liam Murphy meets Barrie The Bear and gives him a high-five with help from mom Tara, during the Success By Six sponsored Breakfast with Santa event held Dec. 14, at the Lions Hall in Barriere.

(Left) Each child who visited Santa was presented with a new book (courtesy of Barriere and Area Literacy and Learning), as well as an orange and a candy cane.

Santa’s elf, Seanna Armstrong, is pictured giving Lexy Kerslake her presents.

(Right) Karissa and Zaccaria William were two of the many youngsters who visited with Santa Claus.

(Below) Paige Arcand sings a Christmas song while proud dad, Dan, looks on.

STAR/JOURNAL photos: by Jill Hayward

Gabriella Genier played seasonal music on her violin.

Marina Brem gives grandson Dawson HallBrem, some advice on what to take from the Lion’s Club sponsored breakfast buffet table.

A32 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 19, 2013 North Thompson Star/Journal

PRE

BOXING WEEK

50%

DECEMBER 23

ALL CHRISTMAS DECOR AND SEASONAL ITEMS Excluding wrapping paper

OFF

GIF T CARDS ARE IN!!!

Future Shop • Garage • LaSenza • Petro-Canada • Bed Bath & Beyond • Boston Pizza • Chapters Cineplex • Earl’s • The Keg • Toys R Us • Home Depot • Subway • Winners

SEE IN STORE FOR COMPLETE SELECTION

CONGRATULATIONS to the winners from our Grand Opening and thank you all for your support. See you next year!!

Judy Armstrong - TV • Kenna Koroll June Paige • Lily Drey • Jim Reimer Pauline Cline • Linda Kelley Lisa Quiding

BARRIERE

4480 Barriere Town Road

Phone: 250-672-9791 PHARMACY

Fax: 250-672-9746

HOLIDAY HOURS: December 24 9-4:30 • Closed December 25 & January 1 • December 26 10-4