Smithers Interior News, December 31, 2014

107th Year - Week 53

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

www.interior-news.com

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RUMBLE WITH THE RIVER KINGS Steelheads tie season series.

SPORTS/A11

2014: What a ride THREE RIVERS THROWBACK Honouring the past, facing the future

THREE RIVERS/B1

COMMUNITY RETROSPECTIVE A look back at community stories.

COMMUNITY/A9

INSIDE LETTERS SPORTS COMMUNITY THREE RIVERS CLASSIFIEDS

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bulkleyvalleywholesale.com

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N EWS January to June in the news Compiled by Chris Gareau Interior News

JANUARY NEWPRO closed More than 40 Smithers employees of Northern Engineered Wood Products lose their jobs after the plants indefinite closure.

NEWPRO president said the closure was due to poor market conditions.

Cohousing site The BV Cohousing Society identify a site in Telkwa for development. A cohousing neighbourhood is made up of self-contained, privately owned homes clustered around common facilities.

Rotary proposes bridge The Smithers Rotary Club proposes Canada’s longest foot suspension bridge at a town council meeting. The 185-metre-long bridge would stretch across the Bulkley River at the end of Main Street.

Police seek victims Vancouver Island’s

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Johnny Walkus, 26, is charged with a break and enter sexual assault after a woman woke up to a man attacking her. Police asked any other potential victims to come forward.

Smithers lawyer disbarred Laurel Elizabeth Hudson (Tanner), a lawyer formerly practising in Smithers, was disbarred for submitting false accounts to the Legal Services Society and altering her employees’ records to include additional hours.

FEBRUARY Schools for sale Bulkley Valley School District 54 puts Chandler Park and Quick School up for sale at $890,000 and $549,000, respectively.

Chandler Park was closed in 2004; Quick closed in 2008.

Man left for dead Mark Anthony Louis was beaten and left by the Kispiox River on the Kispiox Rodeo grounds.

Both his ankles were broken after he gave a ride to a group for cash. In the group

were two men recently released from prison who Louis said he had testified against. He was found by his wife.

Smithers man fatally stabbed Francis George Namox, 26, is fatally stabbed in an apartment on Main Street on Feb. 7. Kelly Andrew Johnson, 21, was charged with second-degree murder.

MARCH Pipeline enters EA phase The Coastal Gaslink LNG pipeline starts its public comment period, with the B.C. Environmental Assessment Office holding open houses. The 650-kilometre proposed pipeline stretches from northeastern B.C. to Kitimat, running south of Smithers.

Cullen new finance critic Skeena–Bulkley Valley MP Nathan Cullen shifts roles from House Leader to opposition finance critic on Mar. 20.

Charity golf tourney cancelled A scheduling conflict forces the cancellation of the Smithers Charity Golf Tournament. The Ladies Club at the Smithers Golf and Country Club were unable to re-schedule their Northern Open for a second year in a row, after the charity tournament moved from June. In 2013, the charity raised $80,000 for the Bulkley Valley Health Care and Hospital foundation, and over $200,000 for the new Smithers arena. The event is going forward in 2015.

Roi TheaTRe CLOSED: Dec. 24, 25, 31 & Jan. 1

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The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies Fri. & Sat. – 7:30 & 9:45 Sun. - Tues. – 8 • PG

APRIL CDC plans move The Bulkley Valley Child Development Centre puts its Poplar Road building just outside of Smithers up for sale. After 15 years at the location, the CDC plans to move all its operations into town limits, bringing its Fourth Avenue office into the same building. The CDC covers the area from Topley to Kitwanga, seeing over 450 families annually.

II

Annie

Fri. & Sat. – 7 & 9 Sun. - Tues. – 7:30 • PG

May the spirit of the season warm you and may you enjoy a prosperous new year.

III

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb Fri. & Sat. – 7:15 & 9:15 Sun. - Tues. – 7:45 • PG

Bulkley Valley CREDIT UNION

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

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

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

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email: infolakes@bvcu.com

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TUESDAYS: ALL SEATS $7.00 250-847-2440

The Interior News

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

N EWS

Mall gets a facelift Town council approves a plan by Proline Properties to begin an extensive renovation of the Smithers Mall, creating new retail spaces. Mark’s and Sport Chek sign on as new tenants, joining the BC Liquor Store and Scotiabank.

Grand Trunk celebrates 100 years The Grand Trunk Pacific Railroad celebrates its centennial with an anniversary tour and commemorative train ride. Its creation marked the beginning of the modern day Bulkley Valley. Construction began on the 833-mile track from Prince George to Prince Rupert in 1912 and was completed in less than two years.

A New Hazelton man set a car on fire on Hwy 16 after wielding an axe at traffic May 11.

Caitlin Clow photo

BVAIA board members resign The president and three board representatives of the Bulkley Valley Agricultural and Industrial Association resign at a special general meeting demanded by association members.

A number of user groups came forward to say they were not being consulted about the direction of the fall fair grounds site. An earlier $15,000 study commissioned by the town of Smithers highlighted the need for better communication and cooperation between user groups. Despite difficulties, the town signed another 25year lease for the fall fair grounds with the BVAIA, as mandated by a previous contract which allowed for automatic renewal.

Nursery signs medical pot lease

Woodmere Nursery just outside of Telkwa signs on to lease 80,000 square feet of greenhouse space and to allow Maple Leaf Green World access to their equipment and laboratory for the purpose of growing medical marijuana.

The term is for three years, plus Maple Leaf has the option to buy the entire seven-acre operation.

MAY Smithers recycling depot open A new five star recycling centre is open. The rating is certified by Encorp.

The $1 million, 6,800-square-foot facility takes in all recycling including batteries, light bulbs, small appliances, electronics, and bottles. The facility is paid for by the Smithers and Area Recycling Society, which thanks to the five star rating can expect up to $10,000 annually from Encorp for maintenance.

Rally to oppose Northern Gateway

Over 500 Bulkley Valley residents march down Smithers’ Main Street to rally against Enbridge’s proposed Northern Gateway bitumen pipeline.

The rally was organized by Friends of Morice-Bulkley. Stikine MLA Doug Donaldson and Smithers mayor Taylor Bachrach voiced their opposition to the proposed pipeline, which is actually two lines running 1,200 kilometres between northern Alberta and Kitimat.

One line would carry bitumen oil west, the other would carry condensate east.

Teachers start picketing B.C. teachers started rotating strike action. Hazelton students were affected May 26, and Smithers and Telkwa students had no classes May 27.

Sunday BREAKFAST Buffet 250-847-2828

1314 Main St, Smithers

Hours: Mon-Thurs 11-8 • Fri-Sat 11–9 • Sun 10-8

SM I L E F OR T H E WE E K I finally got my head together and now my body is falling apart.

JUNE Mediator declines to assist in teachers strike Renowned labour mediator Vince Ready declines to assist in the mediation between the B.C. Teachers Federation and the province as the full strike enters its second week. Wages, class sizes and special needs support are the dividing issues.

Northern Gateway receives federal approval Enbridge’s Northern Gateway pipeline receives federal approval with 209 conditions to be met. Consultations with aboriginal communities are required under the conditions. The $6.5 billion project would carry 525,000 barrels of oil per day.

Tracey Turko, RD

1142 Main Street, Smithers • 847-5318

First Impressions Count

Smithers This Christmas, give a gift of health.

FREE

Any Six Inch Sandwich With every $25 cash card load.

Open for breakfast at 7 AM

We would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year!

We will be closed from December 25th to January 1st.

We look forward to seeing you in the new year.

Smithers Lumber Yard Ltd.

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2010

O PINION

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2012

CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AWARD 2013

2015: the year of climate adaptation

By Tom Fletcher Black Press

It’s time to look beyond the protests and political battles around climate change that dominated 2014, and look at the year and the decade ahead.

From the California drought to shifting forest patterns across B.C., there is evidence that our climate is changing more rapidly. Public debate consists mainly of squabbling about the significance of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, rather than what can be done to prepare.

A draft discussion paper from the B.C. forests ministry on wildfire control was released in December after an access to information request.

“Climate Change Adaptation and Action Plan For Wildfire Management, 2014-2024”

describes the progress made in the province’s community forest fire prevention plan, and its goal to create “wildfire resilient ecosystems and wildfire adapted communities” over the next 10 years.

The final discussion paper is to be released early in 2015, but the key research is in. It estimates that by 2017 there will be 788 million cubic metres of dead pine in B.C. forests.

Fires in these areas spread 2.6 times faster than in healthy green stands, up to 66 metres per minute.

The report calls for fuel management beyond community boundaries to stop “mega-fires” by creating landscape-level fuel breaks, with targeted harvesting, prescribed burning and new silviculture practices.

It notes that bark beetle infestations and bigger,

hotter fires are being seen across North America, with costs rising along with urban development. For example, the 2011 Slave Lake fire in northern Alberta generated the second largest insurance charge in Canadian history.

The costs of preparing are huge. The costs of not preparing could be catastrophic.

Also in 2014, the B.C. government appointed an advisory committee to prepare for the renewal of the Columbia River Treaty with the United States.

While this 1964 the treaty has no end date, its flood control mandate expires in 2024. I spoke with Deborah Harford and Jon O’Riordan, members of the Simon Fraser University Adaptation to Climate Change Team (ACT), who, along with ACT senior

policy author Robert Sandford, have written a provocative book on the treaty. They hope it will help lead to a renewed agreement that will be a model for a changing world.

“If you’re looking ahead 60 years from 2024, there’s a lot of climate change projected in that period, for British Columbia and the U.S.,” Harford said.

“For the B.C. side, we’re looking at heavy precipitation and potential increase in snowmelt runoff, while in the States, you’re getting the opposite, much less snow.

“There will probably be no snowpack left down there, and they’re looking at the prospect of quite drastically lower flows in the summer.”

The treaty, sparked by devastating floods in 1948, led to construction of three dams on the B.C. side and one at Libby, Washington that backed

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up Kookanusa Lake into B.C. Between that reservoir and the Arrow Lakes, 110,000 hectares of B.C. land was flooded, including orchards, dairy farms and the homes of 2,000 people.

Those dams hold back spring flood water and provide for irrigation that has allowed Washington to expand its agriculture to a $5 billion-ayear industry. The treaty shares the value of hydroelectric power generated by the many downstream U.S. dams such as the Grand Coulee, but it pays B.C. nothing for agricultural benefits that were achieved at the cost of B.C. farms and aboriginal territories.

O’Riordan notes that climate shifts create a strategic benefit for B.C. The U.S. has no more dam capacity to exploit, and needs us more than ever, for flood protection and water supply.

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The Interior News

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

L ETTERS Shredding on Christmas not too shabby

that climate change more droughts, floods, increasing impacts on air, water, and food - means that governments will ultimately be forced to act to reduce emissions. The oil companies would like this to be done in a way that is fair and predictable, and allows them to factor it into their business plans.

With this kind of support for a price on carbon, and mounting evidence that it works, it’s not surprising that the Prime Minister is coming around.

Editor:

Are you kidding me?! Our wonderful ski hill was open for shredding on Christmas Day! We are extremely fortunate in this community, for the size of our population, to have such an amazing place to downhill ski and snowboard.

Thank you, thank you, Hudson Bay Mountain crew for helping my family and I create one of the most unforgettable Christmas days ever.

The abundant fluffy powder and royal blue skies against snowladen trees weren’t too shabby either.

Blaise Salmon Victoria Volunteer with Citizens Climate Lobby

BV SEARCH AND RESCUE DOWN UNDER

Kelel’s family’s struggles Editor: RE: Caring for baby Kelel.

Chris Gareau, congratulations on an article well written. I have been on the peripheral of that young family’s experience and can witness that they have down played the trauma that they are going through.

When it comes time for Kelel to carry on and leave this world he will be a soul that glows with love and compassion. That is what he has known.

He has felt only love carry him through all trauma.

The total care that Joe and Tammy, and the medical team has committed to this precious baby, I am sure, will provide heaven

Contributed photo

with … a soul that can testify. Love is above all.

We can help soften their struggles by contributing at the Bulkley Valley Credit Union, 430447.

Sonja Lester Smithers

A carbon price for Canada?

Editor: When Prime Minister Harper admitted in a year-end interview that a price on carbon is something he might accept, Canadians could be forgiven for thinking “it’s about time”.

James Hansen has studied climate change for over 30 years. Over that time his alarm has grown steadily about the world his grandchildren will live in, as the accelerating climate crisis takes hold.

The retired NASA

Your

Grant Harris Publisher

Glad to see Site C

Bulkley Valley Search and Rescue member Fred Oliemans was one of 18 B.C. volunteers to aid in the search for Prabh Srawn in southeast Australia last December.

Kathy Graham Telkwa

We can soften

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TO:

T HE E DITOR

Letters to the editor policy

Letters are welcomed up to a maximum of 250 words. Letters are subject to editing for clarity, brevity and legality. All letters must include the writer’s name, daytime telephone number and hometown for verification purposes. Anonymous, or pen names will not be permitted. Not all submissions will be published. Letters may be e-mailed to: editor@ interior-news.com.

climatologist has been speaking about climate change since the 1980s.

He now confesses that his earlier projections, while accurate about increasing global temperatures, “failed to explore how quickly this would drive an increase in extreme weather”.

What does Hansen think can be done? A steadily rising carbon tax is one of the best ways to limit carbon pollution, Hansen says. He points to British Columbia as an example.

BC’s carbon tax, with its six year track

record, is a proven success. A tax of $30 per ton of carbon emitted adds about 7 cents to a litre of gasoline.

BC’s emissions have declined about 9.9 per cent per capita since 2008, while the economy has grown slightly more than the Canadian average in the same period. What’s more, the carbon tax is supported by 64% of BC residents, who receive lower personal and corporate income tax rates which fully offset the tax.

A carbon tax is one of the tools that could gain support from

Laura Botten Front Office

Jimmy Pelk Langley, B.C.

THE INTERIOR NEWS, P.O. Box 2560, Smithers, B.C. 3764 Broadway Ave. • Phone 847-3266 Fax 847-2995 NEWS: editor@interior-news.com • ADVERTISING: advertising@interior-news.com

TEAM

Chris Gareau Editor

both sides in the polarized world of federal politics. Conservatives are typically against anything that increases the size of government. BC’s carbon tax does not increase government revenues, and is cheap to administer.

The “revenue neutral” aspect appeals to both sides of the political spectrum.

Many like the idea of a market-based tax as a way to address carbon pollution.

We can’t continue to pollute the atmosphere for free. If we don’t clean up our own garbage, our children

and grandchildren will, under much more difficult conditions.

The carbon tax is more than simply an incentive to use less gasoline and other fossil fuels. It also acts to level the playing field for providers of wind, solar, and other alternative energy. Oil, gas and coal companies still receive taxpayer subsidies.

However, once the market factors in a steadily increasing carbon tax, renewable energy alternatives can become steadily more economically competitive.

Interestingly, several oil company CEOs have spoken out in favour of a tax.

Suncor CEO Rick George called for a carbon tax of $40/ ton in 2011, while Lars Bacher, CEO of Statoil Canada, suggested a price of $50/ton. Oil company executives know the science, and they know

Editor: I’m glad to see that the Site C Dam project is finally moving ahead after 50 years of talk.

The dam is going to take a full 10 years to build before it produces a single megawatt of power, so the sooner we get things going the better. After all, who can imagine what the clean energy demands on our province’s power grid will be a decade from now in 2024.

It could be LNG, it could be new, next generation mines and processing plants, it could be something that’s not even on the radar yet.

Whatever it is, having a robust supply of reliable, cleanly generated energy is an economic asset that gives us an ongoing edge in a world dealing with climate change and the need to lower carbon emissions. Bravo to all those who worked to make Site C a reality.

Jill Boland Production

Judy McIntosh Office Assistant

Nick Briere Sales Representative

Alicia Bridges Reporter

Kendra Wong Reporter

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S PORTS

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Wednesday, December 31, 2014

The Interior News

Year in Sports

Terrace’s Chapen Leblond loses his cool in the third, while the Steelheads keep theirs in an entertaining 3-0 win that evened the season series.

Chris Gareau photos

Smithers Steelheads

3 VS.

0 Terrace River Kings

Steelheads win rough one

By Chris Gareau Smithers/Interior News

Ice packs were in high demand after the Steelheads’ 3-0 win over the visiting Terrace River Kings.

Five misconducts were handed out in a hard fought game between the two rivals, who split the season series by each winning at home before the run up to the playoffs. Terrace’s Chapen Leblond earned himself a gross misconduct and automatic three-game suspension after taunting the crowd and breaking his stick on the ice in the third period.

Steelheads head coach Tom deVries. said the rivalry goes back to peewee hockey for many of the players.

“This is one of the most exciting games we’ve been in this year,” said deVries.

The home side collected a few penalties of their own, having to kill off Calvin Johnson’s boarding and fighting majors in the first period.

Johson received one of the game’s ejections.

“We picked the right six forwards, and the defence just did a dynamite job, to continue to go and go,” said deVries.

With the game looking at times like it might get out of hand, the coach made sure the bench did not lose control. That resulted in more powerplays for the Steelheads.

“As a coach, you’ve got to stay cool otherwise your players are going to lose it... What a coach does is be kind of a foreman, just make sure everything keeps on moving,” said deVries.

The Steelheads opened the scoring in the second with a powerplay goal from Jaden Janzen, assited by Brendan and Adam deVries. The Steelheads went ahead 2-0 with 7:35 left in the third, setting off Leblond’s tirade. Lane Perry capped the night with an empty-netter. Michael Wall earned the shutout with 38 saves, one Hasek-like on his back in the second.

Six Smithers skiers returned from the first of three Biathlon Provincial Cup series races with eight medals between them.

By Kendra Wong Sports/Interior News

JANUARY Hunyh named to CAAWS Hazelton’s Carol Hunyh was named as one of the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport in Physical Activity’s most influential women for 2013. The former Olympian was one of 20 women across the country to be chosen and this was the fourth time Hunyh was named to the list. The list includes officials, coaches, professors, administrators and volunteers.

Biathlon team strikes gold Six Smithers skiers returned from the first of three Biathon Provincial Cup series races with eight medals between them.

Moore to Cougars Brendan Moore finished off the minor hockey season playing for the Cariboo Cougars. He got the call after one of the Cougars

One of the greatest joys of this holiday season is saying THANK YOU!!

The New To You Thrift Store in Smithers has Skates (various sizes), Hockey Equipment, Downhill Skis and some Boots, Cross Country Skis and some Boots For Sale.

Proceeds will go to the Smithers Hospital for needed equipment.

3688 Broadway Street 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday to Saturday

Advertising space donated by The Interior News

regulars went down with an injury and would be out for the rest of the season. The stint comes after a two-game tryout with the team in early January.

FEBRUARY Otters find podium Otters’ Cassie Horning-Wandler picked up bronze in the 4x200metre 14 and under freestyle relay, and achieved a personal best in five of six individual events. Bailey Espersen finished in third-place in the 30-metre breaststroke with a time of 32.21. Brother Tanner Espersen also swam a personal best in the 1,500 freestyle, 200 butterfly, 50 breaststroke and 400 IM. Hamhuis to Team Canada Vancouver Canucks defenceman Dan Hamhuis donned Canada’s colours in the 2014 Olympics as part of the men’s hockey team. It was the Smithers product’s debut with the team.

See MARCH on A7

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

S PORTS

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Fishing You a Merry Christmas!

Hazelton’s Joel Patsey is drafted to the WHL. From YEAR on A6 MARCH Bulkley Valley at BC Games Twenty-three athletes from the Bulkley Valley were at the B.C. Winter Games in Mission.

Chantel Wickson and Kalum Huxtable finished as the top female and boys skiers from the Bulkley Valley. The biathlon team also came up big; Seton Kriese placed third in the individual and the sprint; Amanda Wilson was fourth in individual and third in the sprint.

The cross-country team’s Travis Pete had a second-place finish in the 400-metre sprint and a first place in the 5-km classic.

The judo team’s Reid Williams and Joshua Bazel picked up gold medals. The northwest gymnasts brought the largest contingent of athletes, with the girls’ team finishing seventh in the province.

Fish swim to victory The Smithers Steelheads captured their third CIHL championship. The Steelheads defeated the Williams Lake Stampeders 5-2 on the road in a do-or-die game three.

Tweedie gets bronze It’s been a good year for the biathlon team. Angus Tweedie

Kate Woods medals at nationals in Newfoundland.

returned from nationals with a bronze-medal finish and three top-tens in New Brunswick.

APRIL Duo ski to medal finish Kate Woods and Gabriel Price wrapped up their junior careers in style, bringing home two medals from Canadian nationals in Newfoundland.

Hamhuis owns Cougars Dan Hamhuis is now a part owner of the Prince George Cougars, a team he spent four seasons with. The Canuck defenceman finalized a purchase for the club as part of an investment group that includes current NHLer and Cougar alumni Eric Brewer and businessman Greg Pocock.

The deal comes after rumours that the team would be moved to Winnipeg or Nanaimo next season.

MAY Patsey drafted to WHL Hazelton’s Joel Patsey is moving his way up the hockey rankings. The 15-year-old defenceman was drafted in the eighth round of the WHL’s bantam draft.

12 medals for Shogun The Smithers Shogun Dojos

finished the National Karate Kickboxing Championships with a dozen medals in Ottawa, competing against over 600 participants. Dave Percy came away with two golds in the 18 years and up and the 35 year old and up continuous fighting categories.

Tristan Hunt finished with two gold medals in point and continuous fighting. Tareq Abu Khadra also won gold in point and continuous fighting.

Richter strikes at nationals Ten-year-old Madison Richter became a national champion after the bantam Smithers bowler posted a 17-5 record at nationals in Winnipeg.

Enjoy your time with family and friends during this special time of year.

LIVE LOCAL, SHOP LOCAL 1222 Main St., Smithers

250-847-3377 oscarssports.com

JUNE Golf ends well The golf season wrapped up with the BVCS Royals and the SSS Gryphons finishing in the top five in their respective provincial races. The Royals at provincials in Pentiction shot scores of 330 and 340, finishing fourth. The Smithers Secondary Gryphons finished the season in third place at provincials.

Fast track to success The Bulkley Valley Athletics Club landed on the podium 30 times during the Spruce Capital Meet in Prince George.

happy holidays!

Featured Athlete River Stokes-DeYoung Even a fish in water couldn’t catch River Stokes-DeYoung.

The Bulkley Valley Otter recently qualified for AAA provincials at a meet in Kitimat earlier this month in the 200 and 400-metre freestyle swims.

He also broke the club record in the 200 race as well — and did I mention he’s only 13 years old?

“He swam controlled the way that he was supposed to,” said head coach Tom Best. “He swam very, very well.”

At the same meet, the young swimmer also walked away with an impressive nine first-place finishes.

THANK YOU FOR ANOTHER GREAT YEAR SMITHERS.

250.847.4478

3911 Highway 16, SMITHERS oktiresmithers.com

Dan’s Source for Sports congratulates River, please come and see us for your $25 Gift Certificate.

Proud to support local and aspiring athletes in the Bulkley Valley.

1214 Main St., Smithers • 250-847-2136

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C OMMUNITY VIEW FROM THE PORCH Lorraine Doiron

A PALLET TO SATISFY ANY PALATE Ina Christensen will have no trouble stocking up for New Years snacks after winning the Bulkley Valley Wholesale 12 Days of Christmas giant pallet of groceries. The promotion raised over $4480 for BC Children’s Hospital.

Chris Gareau photo

SPICE OF LIFE Brenda Mallory

I am writing this piece a few days before New Years Eve. So, if I don’t seem particularly sincere in wishing you happy new year, I have to say it nonetheless.

Happy New Year!!

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

I don’t get into the New Year celebrations. Even when I was a few decades younger I tried to avoid the scene.

Getting dressed to the nines to wear a fake tiara was not for me. I could round of this beautiful picture by holding a paper tooter that will whistle. If not that I could turn a wooden rattle. Not sure if they even still have that stuff.

For most this night you will consider a new years resolution. Time enough to think about that when the fog clears and the hangover has gone. Mind you we could make a resolution any time of the year.

Tell me if you can how you decide your resolutions?

We have to look at our faults, then decide which one we should get rid of. I don’t make resolutions. Trust me it is not because I do not have faults or personal things I

should rectify. At my age time is of the essence.

I have decided what I will do as we bump over into a new year. I will work on things that are positive in my life. I will enjoy my friends in my reclusive sort of way.

Most of all I will make an effort to keep active and physically strong. Learn a little every day, avoid sugar.

I know at this stage of the game called life I do not have to try fitting in some sort of niche. Being a little different might be the thing that will get me to the next year. We’ll know in 12 months.

I have always had a belief that how we enter the new year is how things will go.

Hungover ? House a big mess? You get the picture!

Good luck for the new year. Call when you can to 250-846-5095 or email a thought to mallory@bulkley. net.

I hope you all had a good Christmas in whatever way gives you joy, perhaps with family or friends or sometimes just having a quiet alone time to savour our mild weather.

There is just enough snow to make it feel like Christmas but not so much that you hate to go outside.

I often talk about the Trans Canada Trail (tctrail.ca).

Right now the Trail is close to linking up right across Canada with 2017 as their goal, an important year for Canada. Two people, taking 15 months, having started in May, 2014, are on a 12,000 kilometre hike from Inuvik, Northwest Territories to St. John’s, Newfoundland, most of it on the Trans Canada Trail.

Now we have a National Day set aside to encourage all Canadians to become active, the first Saturday in June will be officially International Trails Day. My New Year’s resolution is on that day, June 6, 2015 I plan on walking the Perimeter Trail.

It is shameful that I have lived here for 12 years and never set foot on that trail.

Mind you I do not want to walk it alone. Please, someone come and walk with me?

I am not a fast walker but

I think I could make the trip.

Someone told me it is about four kilometres. I will not go alone so I expect someone to step forward and walk with me. You can leave your name and contact information at the paper, they will let me know.

I can remember eating special foods for luck in the New Year. Folklore and custom say certain foods bring wealth, prosperity and abundance.

Green vegetables bring money, I would put in other colours since our money isn’t just green. Cornbread is the colour of gold, a suitable food to eat with the vegetables Legumes are considered lucky due to being shaped like coins, also they swell when cooked, symbolizing abundance. Pork is associated with wealth, the fatty meat linked with “fat wallets”.

Fish, their scales resemble silver, eating it will ensure catching more throughout the year.

It appears that chicken brings bad luck as they scratch the ground backwards, causing you to dwell on regrets. Other winged foul will “fly away” with your luck.

Lobster will cause setbacks because they move backwards.

Eating long noodles, being careful not to break them as you eat, will bring long life.

Desserts and sweets can bring luck if they resemble a coin or a ring. Any kind of sweet actually can promote “sweet success”.

Some countries bake a cake with a coin inside, served at midnight. The person who gets the treat will have luck in the New Year. Just having food on the table at midnight is supposed to mean there will be enough food throughout the year.

Sending much luck and happiness in 2015!

Closing with: Hope is a light diet, but very stimulating.

– Honoré de Balzac

Imagine continuing your education!

See us today .

• The Hazeltons • Smithers • Houston & District • Lakes District •

The Interior News

www.interior-news.com

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

C OMMUNITY

Community retrospective

A9

Follow Us @SmithersNews

For news items or advertising The Interior News • 250-847-3266

Happy New Year Thank you for your patronage We’re closed January 1 st & 2 nd

More than 30 take part in the Torchlight Relay on Hudson Bay Mtn Feb. 1, raising $320 for the Canadian Cancer Society in memory of Rick Schmidt.

Ryan Jensen photo

1314 Main Street • 250-847-2828

Rev. Tolentino Jr. poses for pictures with the Knights of Columbus at St Joseph Parish’s 100th anniversary celebration in May.

Caitlin Clow photo

My little brother needs your help

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FROM THE STAFF AT INTERIOR NEWS AND SUBWAY, WE WISH YOU A HAPPY NEW YEAR! SUBWAY SPOTLIGHT WILL RETURN IN THE NEW YEAR !

A10

www.interior-news.com

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

C OMMUNITY

Wishing you a Happy New Year with hope that you will have many blessings in the year to come.

Ari Rath Jenne, 7, broadcast his 100th show on CICK on Feb. 11.

Ryan Jensen photo

Where the deals are!

1656 Hwy 16E, Telkwa B.C. 250.846.5529 • Mon. to Sat. 10 - 6 www.allforless.ca

The KSM Project: Government of Canada Gives Approval

Molly Moolman sings with the Smithers Secondary School senior Big Band in February.

Ryan Jensen photo

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This month the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Canadian Minister for the Environment, approved Seabridge Gold’s KSM Project, a goldcopper-silver-molybdenum mine located 65 kilometres northwest of Stewart, BC. The approval was granted after the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency’s (CEAA) comprehensive science-based review determined that, through mitigation measures and the conditions of the environmental assessment, no significant adverse effects are expected. This decision is consistent with the Province of B.C’s approval, which was received on July 30, 2014.

“We are very pleased,” said Brent Murphy, Seabridge Vice President of Environmental Affairs.

“By issuing the certificate, Minister Aglukkaq and the Government of Canada have recognized that KSM is a well-designed, environmentally responsible project which is technically feasible and offers significant economic benefits to both British Columbia and Canada. There is still much road left to travel before construction, but this is a big milestone.”

The process of receiving approval has taken more than seven years, with the environmental assessment document totalling more than 35,000 pages. Along the way, Seabridge has held dozens of meetings with the Nisga’a Nation, First Nations, local communities and government officials. The design of the KSM facility, created by hundreds of people from more than 20 worldclass firms, has been updated based on input from local (and international) citizens, government regulators, as well as from Treaty and First Nations.

As the KSM Project Environmental Manager, Elizabeth Miller has toured extensively in BC’s Northwest to inform residents about the project.

“Seabridge would like to thank every person who

A few of the many people who have worked on the KSM Project through the environmental assessment process.

has worked to ensure this project is environmentally and socially responsible, sustainable and economically viable,” she said. “From those who came and commented at our local meetings, to those who wrote letters offering suggestions, to the Federal employees and elected officials who worked tirelessly to ensure the project met the strict environmental standards required here in Canada.”

The receipt of the Government of Canada’s environmental approval is a key step in the permitting process, however there is still much work to be done. Seabridge is now focused on continuing the relationships with the communities, Nisga’a Nation and First Nations, obtaining the remaining approximately 100 additional operating permits, and attracting the strategic partnerships and project financing necessary to build and operate the KSM Project. “We look forward to initiating the next phase in our deepening relationship with BC’s northwest, in which we strive to ensure that KSM meets the legitimate expectations of the local communities,” Miller said.

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Learn more about the KSM Project Learn Learn more more about about the the KSM KSM Project Project

Seabridge Gold www.seabridgegold.net www.ksmproject.com Seabridge Gold Inc.Inc., Seabridge Gold Inc., www.seabridgegold.net 1235 MainStreet, Street, Box 2536,ksm_community@seabridgegold.net community@seabridgegold.net 1235 P.O.P.O. Box 2536, 1235Main Main Street, P.O. Box 2536, community@seabridgegold.net Smithers, BCV0JV0J 2N0 1.250.847.4704 1.250.847.4704 Smithers, BC 2N0 Smithers, BC V0J 2N0 1.250.847.4704

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

A&E

Arts retrospective

www.interior-news.com

A11

Wishing everyone the best of the season and a most happy New Year!

Bulkley Valley Christian School put on four performances of Bye Bye Birdie in May. Ryan Jensen photo

From everyone at School District 54 Bulkley Valley Drummer Thom Bennet from Jesse Peters Trio as part of the Bulkley Valley Concert Association’s series in February.

Nolan Kelly photo

Burlesque show Boom and Bust: Frack Off! played at Kispiox Valley Hall Feb. 15.

The Interior News photo

Bulkley Valley Bottle Depot All the staff at the Smithers Bottle Depot wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

We thank everyone for their support throughout the year.

Our new facility looks forward to serving you in the new year!

Located at: 3446 19th Ave., Smithers, BC Phone: 250-847-3416

V IN G O M E WE AR

Perry & Company On January 5, 2015, Perry and Company will be reborn in our new office located at 3875 Broadway Avenue, Smithers BC. Looking forward to seeing you at the new office.

A12

www.interior-news.com

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

A&E

To Your Family From Ours,

Have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

We are pleased to introduce our new management.

We invite you to come in during the New Year to meet our staff and ask any questions that you might have.

Brooke Huxtable dances her contemporary solo during Creative Roots’ annual showcase in February.

Ryan Jensen photo

RA SCHRADER Funeral Home & Cremation Services

1239 Queen St., PO Box 247 Smithers, BC, V0J 2NO Telephone: 250-847-2441 Fax: 250-847-4087 Email: info@raschraderfuneralhome.ca Website: www.raschraderfuneralhome.com

Uganda’s Watoto Children’s Choir wow the crowd at Mountain View Church Mar. 6.

Nolan Kelly photo

SUE

SEAN

TANNER

BRAD

ZOEY

SARA

MOCHA

Merry Christmas and a most Healthy Happy New Year

TYLER

Our Sincerest Wish for a Safe and Happy

Holiday Season Tatlow Tire Store 2668 Tatlow Road, Smithers

(250) 847-3286

Three Rivers

Wednesday, December 31, 2014 Proudly serving Hazelton, New Hazelton, South Hazelton, Gitsequkla, Kispiox and Glen Vowell threerivers@interior-news.com

Honouring the past, facing the future

Year in review: Jan–June

By Alicia Bridges Three Rivers/Interior News

JANUARY Gitxsan chiefs highlight opposition The Gitxsan Chiefs Office wrote to then Environment Minister Mary Polak highlighting that it should be included in ongoing discussions about the future of the Morrison Lake copper/gold mine.

The proposed mine site is located 65 km northeast of Smithers and has been sought as a mine site with an expected working duration of 21 years by Pacific Booker Minerals Inc. Following a judicial review decision by Justice Kenneth Affleck, which overturned the B.C. government’s denial of PBM’s application, GCO negotiator Beverley Clifton-Percival said her office continued to oppose the project. PBM director Erik Tornquist said at the time the company had more administrative work to do for the Morrison Lake project.

Gitanyow men fined for killing grizzly sow and cub Three Gitanyow men were found guilty in Hazelton Provincial Court on charges relating to the killing of a sow grizzly and cub. Robbie Shirey was found guilty of four offences under the B.C. Wildlife Act for an incident in Gitanyow village in early November, 2012. Shirey was convicted of shooting the bears as they were attempting to eat a moose carcass that was hanging in his yard for two weeks. A second cub was also killed by conservation officers after its

mother was shot.

Shirey was fined $750 on each count.

Chad Shirey and Burton Robinson were also found guilty of discharging a firearm in a no-shooting area and hunting during prohibited hours for their roles. They were fined $575 each.

Seabridge KSM project draws fire The proposed Kerr-Sulphurets-Mitchell mine 65 km north of Stewart drew fire from the Gitanyow Hereditary Chiefs Office. GHCO technical advisor Kevin Koch made a presentation to Smithers council on his concerns about the project, which would have three open-pit mines.

Koch said the KSM project had the potential to destroy wild salmon populations in the Nass river. He said his biggest concern was the proposed tailings Over 500 people pay their respects to Gisday’wa at the Hagwilget Community Hall The Interior News photo pond, which he said would have more than 23 km of piped waste-water in an 8 km by 2 km tailings pond with two dams that would be the tallest in B.C. by 70 metres.

FEBRUARY HSS opens First Nations’ resource centre A new First Nations’ resource centre was officially opened at Hazelton Secondary School at the same time an aboriginal-based curriculum was unveiled.

Plans for the centre were in the works for over a decade before its launch. Nurturing the Spirit is a curriculum created specifically to teach Gitxsan and other aboriginal content.

A suspicious fire destroys Kispiox Gas Bar Donations roll in for new arena/rec centre See COMMUNITIES on B4 The Interior News photo The Interior News photo

No Plans for New Year’s Eve?

We’ve Got You Covered!

The Royal Canadian Legion NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE With Axes

Free Champagne & Midnight buffet Doors open at 8pm Dancing from 9:30 to 1:30

of Egos

Dress to Impress!

Tickets Now On Sale Only $25

Tickets available at Hetherington & Hooper & The Legion

NO MINORS bona fide guests welcome Designated Drivers available

B2 www.interior-news.com

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

New to the Community?

New Baby?

Contact Welcome Wagon Today!

January 6th, 2015

It’s absolutely FREE!

Bringing Local Community information & gifts

Laura 250-643-3237

The Cloud Nine Esthetics family is thrilled to welcome

or 250-846-5742

*Babies 9 months or younger *New within a year *Covering Smithers & Area

Aleesha Meaver, our new Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)

2014/2015

Sunday, January 18, 2015

a new season

ir

Advertising space donated by The Interior News

Wolak Donnelly Duo

Armed with a clarinet, a piano and their personable stage presence, they present a remarkable blend of classical and jazz music.

Brought to you by

3772 - 4th Avenue, Smithers 250-847-4612

THANK YOU

Aleesha is in good standing as a registrant with the College of Massage Therapists of BC. She completed her training at Okanagan College of Massage Therapy and passed her board exams with distinction in 2009. Since then Aleesha has been practicing full-time at a multidisciplinary clinic in Creston BC. With her husband’s move to the Bulkley Valley for his career, Aleesha was looking for a new place to put her skills to good work and we are glad to have her here at Cloud Nine.

Aleesha is focused on her client’s needs to ensure that she is using the most effective methods to enhance overall health. This can include Neuromuscular Therapy, Myofascial Release, Breayhign Exercises, Trigger Point Release, Stretching, Joint Mobilizations, Swedish Techniques, Heat and Cryotherapy, Active Release, Kinesio Taping, Graston Technique (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization), Passive and Active Range of Motion, Postural Education and Remedial Exercises.

See something that interests you? Or something you would like more information on? You can call or email if that is convenient, or we would happy to see you in person to book your appointment or answer any questions you might have.

Email us at cloud9_1@telus.net

Alpine Cut and Esthetics Head to Toe Perfection

Have a wonderful holiday season & we look forward to seeing you at Cloud Nine Esthetics!

3830 - 2nd Avenue • 250-847-4621

Open Monday – Thursday 9–5, Friday 9–8, Saturday 9–5

As of January 1st, 2015 I will be closing the doors.

I wish to thank all my loyal clients for your support and remind you that your gift certificates should be used before that time.

Jenny

! w e

N

Alpine Centre 250-847-2944

All mats & props provided.

Small, intimate studio environment.

• • • •

Yoga Fitness Class Yoga for Round Bodies Class Mom & Daughter Class Teen Yoga Fitness Class

Shannon Gorbahn, your Instructor welcomes you!

Register online: www.TheYogaLoft.ca 3835 1 Ave, Smithers (located above Heavenly Grinds) Call: 250.877.0563

The Interior News

www.interior-news.com

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Community Calendar

B3

To list your nonprofit coming events please drop off your listing at The Interior News, 3764 Broadway Ave., fax us at 250-847-2995, or email laura@interior-news.com. More information is available through our Online Community Calendar at www.interior-news.com. Deadline for submissions is Fridays at noon. Maximum 25 words. Limited space is available. We regret we cannot accept items over the phone.

News Years Eve Social at The Telkwa Senior Hall.

Music by The Just Us Band & CDs, Priced $10.

LunchJuly will2007 be served. For tickets call 846-5346.

Bulkley Valley Credit Union Special General Meeting of the Kispiox Valley EPS Logos to be supplied to Newspapers Music Festival Society 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11 at The Meeting Place at 3226, Bowser Street, New Pantone colours: Pantone 287 Blue Hazelton. One of the things to be decided at this Pantone 356 Green meeting is whether or not a Kispiox Valley Music Pantone 139 Harvest Festival as we’ve known it will take place in 2015.

BV Hospital Auxiliary AGM Tuesday, Jan. 20, 7 p.m. at the Healthy Living Centre on Main St. Everyone welcome.

Community Ladies’ Coffee Break Bible Study.

Tuesday: 9:30 a.m. OR evening 7:30 p.m. at 1471 Columbia Drive, ongoing till May. ONLY morning Photos contributed has Childcare. Morning: Fruits of the Spirit.

Last Friday the Friendship Group brought groceries and a cash donation Evening: Black/Grey Logo file Colour Logo File Beth Moore DVD. 250-847-2333. to the Salvation Army Food Bank. Friendship is a community group that Free Computer Tutoring at Smithers Public Library. meets bi-weekly to support individuals with intellectual disabilities. From Lost on the Information Highway? Book a free one on left to right is Dawn Fehr(Salvation Army rep), George Klok, Jenn Kernone appointment ongoing to March 2015: Wednesday bach, Tina Veenstra and Laura Strauss.

Bulkley Valley CREDIT UNION

Bulkley Valley CREDIT UNION

Business Directory Bulkley Valley • ICBC Express Repair Facility • Experienced Staff

Bulkley Valley

• •

The only locally owned Insurance Brokerage in the Valley. www.bvis.ca

Bulkley Valley

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Sunday 10:00 AM Worship & Children’s Program

At the corner of Queen St. & 8th

250-847-3333

Bethel Reformed Church Welcomes you to worship with us 10 am & 2:30 pm every Sunday

Pastor Lou Slagter 3115 Gould Place Smithers

250-847-2080

CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH Sunday Worship Services at 10 a.m.

Sunday School for ages 3-6 during the morning worship service.

Pastor Ken Vander Horst 1471 Columbia Drive smitherscrc@telus.net Phone 250-847-2333 “Groundwork” on The Peak at 9:30 am Sundays

All Makes & Models Hoskins Ford Body Shop

WWW.HOSKINSFORD.COM HOSKINS FORD SALES LTD Hwy 16, Smithers 250-847-2237 1-800-663-7765

Bulkley 1139 Main Street, Smithers | Valley 250-847-2405 Rev. Alyssa Anderson

Authorized Telus & Shaw Dealer

INSURANCE SERVICES

INSURANCE SERVICES

SMITHERS UNITED CHURCH

to Fridays 1-5 p.m., Saturdays 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (subject to change). Call 250-847-3043.

Ground 2 Griddle Neighbourhood Kitchen every Tuesday 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. James Anglican Church Hall. Call SCSA 250-847-9515 to join this free life skills literacy program. Childcare provided.

Evelyn Community Association meetings first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Evelyn Hall.

New members welcome.

Scrabble at the Smithers Library, 7 p.m. Every Wednesday except the third Wednesday of the month October to May. Everyone welcome.

Free Adult On-on-One Tutoring for Math, English, GED, driving and more. Visit SCSA located at the train station or call 250-847-9515.

BV Genealogical Society meets the last Tuesday every month, Sunshine Inn meeting room, 7 p.m.

Guest speakers and programs are presented to assist family root researchers. All welcome.

1215 Main St. Smithers | Phone: 250.847.4499 Email: inventory@GVSBC.ca

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Come worship with us at

Main St. Christian Fellowship

FAITH REFORMED CHURCH OF TELKWA Pastor James Folkerts (URC-NA) 1170 Hwy 16, Telkwa

Sunday mornings 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Rick Apperson

Services at 10 am & 2:30 pm

1065 Main St., Smithers Phone: 250-847-1059

Faith Alive Christian Fellowship Upper floor Fitness Northwest Centre, Broadway Ave. 10-12 noon Sundays Youth meeting Fridays at 7 pm

Listen to “Whitehorse Inn program” Sundays at 9 am on The Peak 870 am

Join us for Services.

Renew your FAITH! We welcome visitors and new members.

ST. JAMES ANGLICAN CHURCH 1636 Princess Street

Sunday 10:00 am - Service and Sunday School

4th Sunday

2:00 pm service at St. John the Divine, Quick 250-847-6155 • Quick 250-847-9881 • Smithers 250-847-5625 • Fax phone

Rev. Don Mott, Phone 250-847-3864

Fellowship Baptist Chur ChurC Ch on the corner of Queen St. and 7th Ave. Morning Worship 10:45 am with Junior Church and Nursery Pastor Chris Kibble www.smithersbaptist.ca

250-847-3725

This proof has been carefully prepared by THE INTERIOR NEWS

according to our understanding of your specifications. It may contain CANADIAN Mount Zion errors, please check for proper spelling of names, prices and phone numbers. Fax changes to us at 847-2995 REFORMED CHURCH Lutheran Church Sunday Worship Services

Meeting in the Historic St. Stephen’s Church

10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

1620 Highway 16 in Telkwa

Pastor James Slaa 2788 Upper Viewmount Rd. All welcome to attend!

Contact number 250-847-5879 www.smitherscanrc.org

Sunday Morning Worship 10 am

For information e.mail mtzionsmithers@yahoo.ca

Saturday Service • Everyone Welcome •

EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH

Welcomes You! Sunday Celebration Service 10:30 a.m.

Children’s Ministries during service Corner of Viewmount Rd South & Hwy 16

250-847-2466 www.mvachurch.com Affiliated with the PAOC

Seventh Day Adventist Contact 250-847-5983 3696 4th Avenue

Rev. Dwayne Goertzen Pastor Trevor Brawdy 250-847-2929 Email: efree@uniserve.com Website: www.smithersefc.org Services at 9 & 11:15 a.m.

Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

1838 Main St.

B4

www.interior-news.com

T HREE R IVERS R EPORT From HONOURING on Front Communities mourn Gisday’wa loss A tremor was felt by the Wet’suwet’en and Gitxsan communities at the loss of Gisday’wa (Dr. Alfred Joseph).

More than 500 people from across the region paid their respects to Gisday’wa at the Hagwilget Community Hall.

One of Gisday’wa’s most influential accomplishments was as part of the team who eventually convinced the legal system in Canada to recognize Wet’suwet’en and Gitxsan oral history as fact and hereditary chiefs as expert witnesses.

Class-action lawsuit A class-action lawsuit was launched against those administering medical services to Hazelton-area aboriginal people after a human rights complaint was allowed to be heard before a future tribunal.

The date and location of the trial were yet to be set, but the lawyer for the complainants, Lindsay Waddell, pointed out what the case was about: “This case is not about the

performance of individual doctors, nurses and other staff at Wrinch [Memorial Hospital] who do the best they can on a daily basis with the limited resources available to them.

“This case is about whether Northern Health, the [B.C.] Ministry of Health and the United Church Health Services Society are discriminating – perhaps unintentionally – against First Nations people in the Hazelton area by failing to adequately fund and deliver medical services.”

The three respondents listed above attempted to have the suit dismissed due to lack of evidence and reasonable chance of success for the complainants’ case, but the sitting tribunal adjudicator, Catherine McCreary, did not side with that viewpoint. It was noted at the time it could take more than a year for the matter to be heard.

MARCH ‘Ksan museum closed The Gitanmaax Band announced it had closed the

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

‘Ksan Historical Museum and Village until new management is found. The Band terminated its lease with the administrator, ‘Ksan Association, for default of payment.

Prior to the closure, the museum’s staff and board had been canvassing band offices and organizations to help recover from financial troubles caused by a flood in 2007.

TransCanada starts drilling TransCanada Pipelines started test drilling at river crossings in the Hazelton area for their proposed natural gas transmission project. The B.C. Oil and Gas Commission had granted approval to Prince Rupert Gas Transmission Ltd., a subsidiary of TransCanada, to conduct borehole drilling near the Cranberry, Skeena and Shegunia Rivers.

The purpose of the borehole drilling was to assess slope stability and to determine the technical feasibility of constructing a pipeline at the river crossings.

See APRIL on B5

Have a fabulous

New Year

from the staff and management at Pharmasave, Smithers

Closed January 1st.

Monday-Friday 9am-9pm Saturday 9am-6pm • Sunday & Holidays 10am-5pm

Seniors’ Day every day • 10% off (some exclusions may apply)

Bulkley Village Shopping Center

250-847-4474

3752 4th Ave • Smithers, B.C.

Put your baby’s picture in the

Beautiful Babies of 2014 special edition

Entry deadline is Friday, January 16 don’t Miss oUt!

this will be a very popular edition and your child or grandchild can be included for only $25.00 including Gst. so start looking for that special photo now. if you would like your photo returned, include a stamped, self-addressed envelope or pick up at our office after Feb. 1st. Photos unclaimed by Feb. 28/15 will be destroyed.

2014 BaBy Edition thE intErior nEws

Baby’s Last name ______________________________ Baby’s 1st name _______________________________ Baby’s Birth date_______________________________ age of Baby when photo taken ___________________ Mom’s name __________________________________ dad’s name ___________________________________ address _______________________________________ telephone _____________________________________ Fill out this form and return it along with a photo of your baby born between January 1, 2014 & december 31, 2014. digital photos may be emailed to laura@interior-news.com

3764 Broadway avenue, Box 2560, smithers, B.C., V0J 2n0

You Could Win !

$100 bank account for your child from

Bulkley Valley CREDIT UNION $100 photo package from

$100 Gift Certificate from

The Interior News

T HREE R IVERS R EPORT From COMMUNITIES on B4 APRIL Arson suspected in Kispiox Gas Bar fire New Hazelton RCMP was investigating a suspicious fire that destroyed the Kispiox Gas Bar on March 27.

Lana Johnson, who lived nearby the gas bar, was woken by her husband who noticed the flames shortly after 6 a.m. He rushed out to try and put out the fire while Johnson called 9-1-1. The Glen Vowell and Kispiox Volunteer Fire Departments were both called out to battle the blaze. The gas bar was closed when the fire began and there were no injuries.

The convenience store was the only place in the area to fuel up so residents had to travel about 20 minutes to get gas and other supplies.

The building was being renovated when the fire occurred. New Hazelton police suspected arson was responsible for the blaze.

Gitanmaax grocery store nears completion The new Gitanmaax Market store started hiring to fill between 55 and 65 positions for its June opening. A number of job fairs were scheduled to take place in April and May in Smithers, Terrace and Hazelton.

Project manager Jay Savage said construction on the 17,000 square-foot building was scheduled to be finished in mid-May. Construction started in 2013. The store, on Kispiox Valley Road, is owned and run by the Gitanmaax Development Corporation.

‘Ksan reopens The ‘Ksan museum announced it would reopen in April after creating a short-term plan to get the attraction up-and-running for the tourist season. The Gitanmaax Band said it engaged its business team to take a leadership role while long-term stability plan was established.

GTS threatens to stop discussions The Gitxsan Treaty Society threatened to stop discussions about any proposed pipeline development unless the federal and provincial governments withdrew their land offers to two other First Nations. The governments signed agreements in principal with the Kitselas and Kitsumkalum bands for land and rights that the Gitxsan said would be taken away from them.

See MAY on B8

Wagon Wheel Stolen!

PLEASE

Smithers Lions Club

Dec. 4 Dec. 11 Dec. 18 Dec. 18 $500 Dec. 18

Dennis Groves Eric Person Carla Cleveland Doug Flynn Donna Smith

102 160 199 46 176

This is the final draw for 2014. The next draw for raffle #36 will be January 2 2015. All tickets are sold .

Advertising space donated by The Interior News

AIR BRAKES COURSE B.V. Driving School Ltd.

12 & under order off our Kids Menu & Receive: Kid’s Toy, choice of Milk, Juice or Pop and Ice cream for Dessert!

• • • • • •

Veggie or Chicken Quesadilla Giant Griller Hot Dog Dino Burger & Fries or Salad 2 chicken fingers & fries Grilled Cheese & Fries Macaroni & Cheese

RETURN.

Everyday between 2pm till restaurant close for only...

NO

We buy locally from Paul’s Bakery & the Sausage Factory

QUESTION ASKED.

STOLEN from my home on Coalmine Road in Telkwa, this past fall. This photo is a likeness.

The stolen wagon wheel was chained, it has an orange hub & finished with natural stain. ~ Sentimental value only ~ Please call Tom Roper 846-5521 at Telkwa River Ranch with info.

B5

TREAT THE FAMILY

Plans for a new recreation centre in the Hazeltons received a major funding boost when TransCanada donated $1 million to the project.

The Heart of the Hazeltons campaign is fundraising for a new ice arena and recreation centre. The owners’ committee for the new centre consists of the Hazeltons municipalities, the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine, the Gitxsan Treaty Organization and the Gitxsan Government Commission. The group has already committed $1.5 million of the $10 million needed to build the arena. The Bulkley Valley Credit Union also donated $100,000.

Upper Skeena arena

Club 222 Raffle 2014

www.interior-news.com

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

$3.50

Breakfast served till 2pm Everyday!

4268 Hwy 16, Smithers

Your Valley Ranches

is offering an air brakes course in Houston on

Friday (evening) January 16th, Saturday, January 17th & Sunday, January 18th, 2015.

Anyone interested in taking the course or wants more information about the air brakes course, please call

Email:

250-845-3288 or Cell 250-845-1112

Enjoy stories of our local Cattle Ranching operators whose work over the decades has helped build the Bulkley Valley. Look for these near the end of each month in the Interior News.

Spaces are limited so call ASAP

Proudly brought to you by Smithers Feed, BV Home Centre, Sausage Factory, B.V. Cattlemen’s Association and the Interior News.

Toll Free: 1-888-644-3555 bvdrivin@bvdrivingschool.ca • www.bvdrivingschool.ca

Rustica Bakery Breads, Buns & Cookies bulkleyvalleywholesale.com

Committed to our area’s over all well being by offering LOCAL produce, meats, baked goods, seafood & more.

The wood fired oven of Rustica Bakery produces some of the best bread and cookies in the Bulkley Valley. You and your family can find and enjoy them every day at BV Wholesale.

B6 www.interior-news.com

DrivewayCanada.ca |

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Welcome to the driver’s seat

Hot Laps in the Subaru WRX STI with retired WRC Driver Tommi Mäkinen.

Visit the gallery at DrivewayCanada.ca

2014 car year in review It’s hard to believe that 2014 is over.

Subaru WRX STI: Where did it go? At a time when we tend MSRP $37,995-$44,995 to reflect on what we’ve done, what we The all-new 2015 Subaru WRX STI is can do better and what was awesome, an incredible car within its own right. that brings me to my personal Car Year It has a cult following and has the in Review. street cred to back it up. And just when It takes a special vehicle or experience you think you’re getting the hang of

by Alexandra Straub to stick in my memory. Not to say that putting it around the Buttonwillow short-term memory loss is a problem but Raceway in California, you let Tommi with constant streams of information bombarding Mäkinen take you for a spin. Gosh, it’s like he could my brain, it’s not hard to forget where I was and drive ten times faster, smoother and more confidently what I was testing a week ago! in his sleep. Heck, he had one arm on the windowsill Though this is a review of wheels past, because we when he wasn’t shifting or going into a tight corner. often test vehicles well ahead of their full production Moral of the story: the car makes you feel like a hero this also points to what people will be driving in even if you can’t drive like Tommi. And what a cool 2015. experience.

Let’s start small because the micro cars might be Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat: miniscule in price, but aren’t about to disappoint.

MSRP $63,495 (but the new 2015 Challenger SXT Nissan Micra: MSRP Range, $9,998-$15,748 starts at an MSRP of $28,495) For under $10K, this pint-sized vehicle can be yours.

The name says it all. Put “Hell” in something and But just because it’s inexpensive doesn’t mean it’s you’re bound to have a helluva good time, right? cheap. And it’s a blast to drive. Sure, 109 horsepower Especially when you have 707 horsepower at your won’t get you where you need to go in a flash, but disposal. But to say I wasn’t apprehensive to take this that’s not the point of this car. Besides, for basic beast on the track at Portland International Raceway transportation, it has the goods. would be a lie. And the reason is, American muscle cars haven’t always been the pinnacle of exceptional Ford Fiesta 1.0L, $15,999 + $1,500 for the 1.0L option; for an MSRP of $17,499 handling dynamics. Sure, it has a lot of horses, but will it get me through the corner with minimal body roll?

Ford’s smallest engine available here in Canada sure Or will the steering have enough feel that I won’t be packs a lot of punch. And considering it only weighs constantly inputting actions?

98 kg when assembled, this 1.0L, 3-cylinder powerIn this case? Hell(cat) yes. I was blown away as to plant is pretty impressive. If you opt for this bitehow well this car drove, not just on the track, but on sized engine, you’ll be getting 123 horsepower and the street, too. Disclaimer: if you need to get anywhere 125 lb-ft of torque (148 lb-ft with the overboost). The quickly, this isn’t the car for you. People will talk your Fiesta was designed and engineered in Europe so it ear off about it if you give them an opportunity. isn’t bad to look at either.

Question of the Week

Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC: MSRP $37,200 (AMG version is $50,500) Another vehicle that shone brightly is Mercedes-Benz’s GLA. The luxury compact crossover starts at under $40K but does so many things well. It has a hatchback, great styling and the fuel economy is quite good, too. I wouldn’t even need the AMG version to keep me happy. It’s just a stellar vehicle.

MINI Cooper S: MSRP starts at $25,490 Perhaps the biggest disappointment this year comes in the shape of the MINI Cooper S. I’ve loved these cars for so long, but perhaps electronics have ruined it for me. Yes, it’s much more competent and has some great features, but I miss the days of the supercharged version. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still a super fun car to drive, but the downshift rev matching in the Cooper S with the manual transmission was not amazing. It was harsh and jerky. I also feel it lost a little bit of personality along its way to adulthood. I’ll forever love them, quirks and all.

Honda Fit: MSRP range $14,495-$21,295 The Fit is on my list because I think it is just such a fabulous little car. The Magic Seats really are magic, but the new touchscreen is a huge deterrent. I strongly dislike it. I like buttons. I don’t mind if there are a few to complement the screen but I feel it takes my eyes off the road for too long, even if I’m familiar with the system.

The price of gas has dropped significantly in recent weeks. If you plan to buy a car this year will lower prices at the pump encourage you to buy a larger vehicle?

Go to DrivewayCanada.ca to submit your answer. QUESTION

?

OF THE WEEK!

Safety Tip: January is one of the worst months for crashes in B.C. with approximately 23,200 on average. In poor conditions, slow down, increase your following distance and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.

follow us… /Driveway @DrivewayCanada

Volvo V60 T6: MSRP $51,200-$66,895 Long live the Swedish wagons. They can do very little wrong in my books. They’re just fantastic. alexandra.straub@drivewaybc.ca

Support the businesses who support you, shop local.

Brought to you by the Interior News

UP TO

2

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Pic of the week

Volvo Cars’ safety expert Anders Axelson knows that brilliant ideas can pop up in the strangest of circumstances.

A visit to Legoland with his twin daughters in 2007 inspired Anders to turn an amusement park ride into an efficient test method in Volvo Cars’ quest for better protection in run-off road crashes.

“Watching people being thrown in all directions during a ride in the ‘Robocoaster’, I suddenly realised that those rapid, random movements resembled the violent forces occupants in a run-off road crash are exposed to,” says Anders Axelson.

HOLIDAY EVENT ELIGIBLE OWNERS RECEIVE UP TO

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BOXING WEEK BONUS ENDS JAN 2ND ON SELECT 2014 MODELS‡

2014 SILVERADO 1500 DOUBLE CAB

IN TOTAL CASH CREDITS ON SELECT MODELS .‡

$ ,

8500

IN TOTAL CASH CREDITS † ON SELECT MODELS.

$ ,

2014 TRAX

3 250

- 1.4 L TURBOCHARGED ENGINE - AIR CONDITIONING - STABILITRAK ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL SYSTEM

+ INCLUDES:

+

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ON NOW AT YOUR BC CHEVROLET DEALERS. Chevrolet.ca 1-800-GM-DRIVE. Chevrolet is a brand of General Motors of Canada. Offers apply to the purchase, finance and lease of a 2014 Chevrolet Trax, Silverado or Cruze. Freight ($1,600/$1695/$1,600) and PDI included. License, insurance, registration, administration & dealer fees, PPSA and taxes not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited time offers which may not be combined with other offers, and are subject to change without notice. Offers apply to qualified retail customers in BC Chevrolet Dealer Marketing Association area only. Dealer trade may be required. *Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any model year 1999 or newer car that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit valid towards the retail purchase or lease of one eligible 2013, 2014, 2015 model year Chevrolet car, SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between December 2, 2014 and January 2, 2015. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive) and credit value depends on model purchased: $750 credit available on all eligible Chevrolet vehicles. Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any Pontiac/Saturn/SAAB/Hummer/Oldsmobile model year 1999 or newer vehicle or Chevrolet Cobalt or HHR that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months.

Credit valid towards the retail purchase or lease of one eligible 2013, 2014, 2015 model year Chevrolet car, SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between December 2, 2014 and January 2, 2015. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive) and credit value depends on model purchased: $1500 credit available on all eligible Chevrolet vehicles. Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any model year 1999 or newer pick-up truck that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive): $1,000 credit available towards the retail purchase, cash purchase or lease of one eligible 2013, 2014 or 2015 model year Chevrolet light or heavy duty pickup(except Colorado); delivered in Canada between December 2, 2014 through January 2, 2015. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Certain limitations or conditions apply. Void where prohibited by law. See your GMCL dealer for details. GMCL reserves the right to amend or terminate offers for any reason in whole or in part at any time without prior notice. **$500 Boxing Week Bonus is a manufacturer-to-consumer credit (tax inclusive) available on the retail purchase or lease of 2014 or 2015 model year Chevrolet Sonic, Cruze, Trax, Equinox, Traverse, Silverado 1500 Double Cab, or Silverado HD (gas engine only) delivered in Canada between December 15, 2014 and January 2, 2015. †$3,250 is a combined total credit consisting of a $750 Holiday Cash (tax inclusive), $500 Boxing Week Bonus (tax inclusive) and a $2,000 manufacturer to dealer cash credit (tax exclusive) for 2014 Trax which is available for cash purchases only and cannot be combined with special lease and finance rates. By selecting lease or finance offers, consumers are foregoing this $2,000 credit which will result in higher effective interest rates. Discounts vary by model. ‡$8,500 is a combined total credit consisting of a $4,000 manufacturer to dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive) for 2014 Silverado Light Duty Double Cab, $1,000 Holiday Cash for Truck Owners (tax inclusive), $500 Boxing Week Bonus (tax inclusive) and a $3,000 manufacturer to dealer cash credit (tax exclusive) for 2014 Chevrolet Silverado Light Duty (1500) DoubleCab, which is available for cash purchases only and cannot be combined with special lease and finance rates. By selecting lease or finance offers, consumers are foregoing this $3,000 credit which will result in higher effective interest rates. Discounts vary by model. *†$5,500 is a combined total credit consisting of a $1,000 manufacturer to dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive) on 2014 Chevrolet Cruze LTZ, a $750 Holiday Cash (tax inclusive), $500 Boxing Week Bonus (tax inclusive) and a $3,250 manufacturer to dealer cash credit (tax exclusive) for 2014 Cruze LTZ which is available for cash purchases only and cannot be combined with special lease and finance rates. By selecting lease or finance offers, consumers are foregoing this $3,250 credit which will result in higher effective interest rates. Discounts vary by model. ~Visit onstar.ca for coverage map, details and system limitations. Services vary by model and conditions. OnStar acts as a link to existing emergency service providers. After complimentary trial period, an active OnStar service plan is required. ††Based on Wardsauto.com 2013 Large Pickup segment and last available information at the time of posting.

Excludes other GM vehicles. Maximum trailer weight ratings are calculated assuming base vehicle, except for any option(s) necessary to achieve the rating, plus driver. The weight of other optional equipment, passengers and cargo will reduce the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow. See your dealer for additional details. ‡‡2014 Silverado 1500 with the available 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission has a fuel-consumption rating of 13.0L/100 km city and 8.7L/100 km hwy 2WD and 13.3L/100 km city and 9.0L/100 km hwy 4WD. Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine has a fuel consumption rating of 12.9L/100 km city and 9.0L/100 km hwy 2WD and 14.1L/100 km city and 9.6L/100 km hwy 4WD. Fuel consumption based on GM testing in accordance with approved Transport Canada test methods. Your actual fuel consumption may vary. ++Whichever comes first. See dealer/manufacturer for details. Based on Wardsauto.com 2013 Large Pickup segment and last available information at the time of posting. +Based on WardsAuto.com 2012 Upper Small segment, excluding Hybrid and Diesel powertrains. Standard 10 airbags, ABS, traction control and StabiliTrak. WBased on GM Testing in accordance with approved Transport Canada test methods. Your actual fuel consumption may vary. *^Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) New Car Assessment Program (www.SaferCar. gov). ^Whichever comes first. Limit of four ACDelco Lube-Oil-Filter services in total. Fluid top-offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc., are not covered. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ^^Whichever comes first. See dealer for details.

The Interior News www.interior-news.com

Call Coast Mountain Chevrolet Buick GMC at 250-847-2214, or visit us at 4038 Yellowhead Highway 16 West, Smithers. [License #10041]

B7

drivewayBC.ca

“The industrial robot manufacturer ABB had the technology and the knowledge to programme a machine designed for precision work to move a car seat around in a seemingly random pattern. It worked brilliantly,” says Anders Axelson.

A vehicle seat and restraint system is mounted on the multi-axial industrial robot. The robot, which is used together with a crash test dummy, can be programmed to simulate the occupant kinematics during crucial parts of run-off road scenarios. keith.morgan@drivewaybc.ca

B8 www.interior-news.com

T HREE R IVERS R EPORT From APRIL on B5 MAY Water drilling concerns Concerns were growing about the amount of water being taken from the Kispiox River by an LNG company doing exploratory work.

Shannon McPhail of the Skeena Watershed Conservation Coalition said it was a confusing situation because of the changes coming to the Water Sustainability Act. She said it was unclear whether the Ministry of Environment or the BC Oil and Gas Commission was supposed to regulate the water use.

TransCanada spokesperson Davis Sheremata said the company was only withdrawing a small amount of freshwater from the Kispiox River and that the company had the relevant permits and approvals for its drilling work.

Missing and murdered women report Local leaders responded to the release of the RCMP’s National

JUNE Hazelton teachers strike Hazeltons teachers picketed as part of strikes across the province in June. Teachers started job action in April, refusing to perform some administrative work. Wage as well as class sizes and composition had negotiations at a stand still. The B.C. teachers’ contracts expired last year.

Remains find final resting place A feast at Hagwilget Hall was held to cleanse the community from a cultural disturbance that began eight years earlier.

See SACRED on B12

Covered RV storage, individual units for boats, campers, RV’s!

Mini Storage: Brand New, completed Nov. 2014 • Smooth roll-up doors for easy use • Variety of sizes, gated & well lit As low as • Accept major credit cards $99 /mo • Best Value with competitive price Book Now! 250-877-9235

Books & Beyond

BOOKS & BEYOND Do you have a new computer or mobile device?

our youngest community members and their caregivers.

Thursday mornings,

Never fear… Adam is here!

January 15 to March 16

FREE COMPUTER TUTORING at Your Library

Ages Newborn to 18 months 9:30-10:15

Adam will help you with your new device; demonstrate how to set up email, Facebook, or library accounts; teach you how to Skype with family and friends or share photos; show you how to download free eBooks; explain how to order items from other libraries; and answer any other questions you might have about computers. Call the library to book a free one-on-one appointment.

Ages 18 months to 3 years 10:45-11:30

January/February Computer Tutoring Schedule

10-10:45

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays 1-5 Saturdays 10:30-2:30 This service is made possible through funding from the Government of Canada.

MOTHER GOOSE ON THE LOOSE

This program is generously supported by MOST for Children funding.

FAMILY STORYTIME Stories, songs, and rhymes for children age 6 and under accompanied by a caregiver.

Wednesday mornings, January 14 to March 25 Check out the Library Events page on our website and discover more free programs for kids, teens, and adults.

There’s always something happening at the library! smithers.bclibrary. ca/ 3817 Alfred Ave. (250)847-3043contact@ smitherslibrary.ca

Season

AD DEADLINES Friday, Jan. 2, noon

All Display Ads and All Line Ads For the January 7 Edition

We wish you a happy 2015!

CLOSED Jan. 1

Sara Torunski

So you may think that the 4H year ends for us kids and families after we load up at the end of the Fall Fair in August. However, once the Fall Fair is over there are still record books to complete and hand in as well as the yearend appreciation dinners and awards nights organized by each of the District 4H clubs. For the Evelyn 4H club the 2014 year came to a close on November 22nd with our appreciation dinner and awards night.

This event is a great way for club members and leaders to show how grateful they are for someone’s help or guidance and the support of local businesses, families and organizations over the year. This year there were lots of support-

ers to invite and we were very happy to see many of them join us for a great meal.

The club and its members bought and, or donated the ingredients to make a really yummy meal for everyone to enjoy.

This included meats cooked on a spit, homemade stuffing, salads and desserts.

Of course we were all made to eat our veggies, and they were delicious. Everyone helps setting up the hall for the dinner with decorations to give the room a festive feel.

After dinner, the animal auction buyers were recognized by the club members whose animal they purchased and club members were then presented with various achievement awards.

Awards are sponsored by different businesses, families and people in the com-

sponsored By:

Phone: 250-847-2263 www.all-westglass.com

Evelyn 4-H 2014 Awards Dinner

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The 4-H Files WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE FALL FAIR?

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Operational Review on Missing and Murdered Aboriginal Women.

At the time of its release, police databases showed there were 1,181 missing and murdered aboriginal women dating back to 1952.

Gitxsan negotiator Beverley Clifton Percival called for a national inquiry.

Coalmine RV & Mini Storage Coalmine Road, Telkwa, B.C

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

munity. It is really nice when these sponsors are able to be there to present their award to the deserving recipient or recipients.

Awards are handed out to Cloverbuds up through to seniors for all registered project areas and events.

But things don’t end there…

Since some projects are multi-year and some animals are born early in the fall or winter, some club members already have their 2015 project animals and are keeping records for their next year’s record books.

For any of you interested in getting involved with 4H in 2015, registrations for the 2015 4H year are due in February. To get contact information for the Bulkley Valley District 4H club nearest you, contact the District Key Leader, Stacey Remilliard at 250-8768184.

The Evelyn 4H club invites you to come out to our monthly meeting in January or February, 7pm at the Paul Lychak Hall, the first Tuesday of the month.

By Sara Torunski

Happy New Year!!

The Bulkley Valley Farmers’ Market is indoors again this year at the Smithers Curling Club! Indoor markets start at 9am and end at noon. Winter markets start on January 10th and run twice every month.

Missed the Farmers’ Market? The 2014 BV Local Food Directory is available at Smithers Feed, the Sausage Factory, Rudolph’s Pure Sausage and the Learning Shop in Hazelton. It is also available online at the Smithers Farmers’ Institute website: www.smithersfarmersinstitute. com.

Notes for Producers: The Smithers Farmers’ Institute is planning a conference ‘From Carrots to Cattle: Food Production in the Northwest’ for February 20th and 21st. Details will are posted on the website: http://www. smithersfarmersinstitute.com/conference. html.

Beyond the Market is holding a Farm Business Planning Bootcamp in Smithers on March 7 and 8 at the Hudson Bay Lodge. Workshops are free, registration is required. Register at: http://beyondthemarket.eventbrite.com/ .

Upcoming Annual General Meetings: The Bulkley Valley Cattlemen’s Association Annual General Meeting will be held on January 17, 2014 at the Pioneer Activity Centre. Meeting starts at 7:30pm.

The Bulkley Valley Farmers’ Market Annual General Meeting will be on Wednesday, January 21, 2015, at 6:30 p.m. at the Charlie McClary Re/Max Bulkley Valley - Smithers Old Church in Smithers.

Office (250) 847-5999 Fax (250) 847-9039 The Skeena Regional Cattlemen’s As(250)877-1770 Cellular sociation Annual General Meeting will be held on February 28th at the Hudson Bay Lodge. Tradeshow opens at noon, meeting starts at 1:00 pm.

From Charlie’s Desk….

I have a number of clients looking for reside properties. Give me a call if you are thinking of selli the Smithers or Telkwa limits. Special requests : S 1000 sq.ft. rancher hill top area/ Larger home needi reno and TLC/ Older home for rental investment/ D unit. I am more than happy to get together with you free evalution on your home and help you with the d sion process. Call me anytime to set up an appointm

Subdivision Potential Tyhee Lake $484,500.00

• Proposed 124 lots • 55+ acres • Great views & building sites

Hobby Farm Telkwa $484,000.00 • 160 acres

Aspen Croft Ranch Smithers $729,000.00

Look at these TWO TURNKEY Business OPPORTUNITIES...

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Hay Farm • Suskwa $375,000.00

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Coyote Creek Ranch Smithers $484,000.00

•Family ranchette • 2 storey home • Outbuildings & corrals

• 220 acres (130 cultivated) • 3+ ton per acre of hay • Modest 1200 sf. Home • Year round creek • Great mountain views MLS # N4502895

• SEARS, Greyhound & more $100K Gross • 3 yr o

60 X 28 modular building on a 132’x122’ Commercial Lot one block off Hwy 16.

A1 CAR WASH—Houston $ 684,000.00

Hay Land • Smithers $500,000.00

• 100 acres (75 cultivated) • Zoned H2 • Subdivision opportunity • Sub irrigated by creek MLS # N4501568

From C

Charlie McClary MLS # N4502640

I properties the Smith

From Charlie’s Desk

Re/Max Bulkley Valley - Smithers Charlie McClary Office (250) 847-5999 Fax (250) 847-9039

4 sources of revenue, 2 heated car wash bays, 1000 sq.f auto repair bay, retail sales,equipment rental & I have Park a number o reno Located in Houston Industrial on 2and acre unit. am room for expansion.

Great opportunity! properties.

Give me a Icall

Re/Max Bulkley Valley - Cellular Smithers (250)877-1770

free evalu the Smithers or Telkwa lim 1000 sq.ft. ranchersion hillproce top reno and TLC/ Older hom unit. I am more than happy Look a free evalution on your hom me any Aspen sion Croftprocess.

Ranch CallBusine

Office (250) 847-5999 Fax (250) 847-9039 Subdivision Po-

(250)877-1770 Cellular tential Tyhee Lake $484,500.00

Subdivision Potential Tyhee Lake $484,500.00

• Proposed 124 lots • 55+ acres • Great views & building sites

Smithers $729,000.00

Aspen Croft Smithers $729,000.00

Multi Bu

Look at these TW Business OPPOR

• 260 acres • Large country home Ranch• hayland & pasture • Spectacular views Business • Crown Multi range attached

Operat

Peggy Thomas Margaret Eldora Alexandra Orr

Layton Alexander Zavaduk

Forever loved, was taken from his parents Mathew Zavaduk and Kelsey Melvin on December 18, 2014.

Our darling angel baby, silent from the start. We cannot hold you in our arms, but will hold you in our hearts.

Condolences may be offered at www.raschraderfuneralhome.com R.A. SCHRADER FUNERAL SERVICES 250-847-2441

Tim Hortons lost a loyal customer on December 7, 2014. Peggy passed peacefully in her home at The Concorde Assisted Living in Penticton.

Her husband Jack predeceased her in 1982 and she is survived by sons Dean of Penticton and Lowell (Karen) of Tucson AZ. Grandsons Waylon and Harley Thomas live in North Vancouver while grand-daughter Christa Moser and great-grandkids Tyler Spray and Jayden Nichol are from Saanichton.

Peggy was born in Hanna, Alberta in 1927 and followed her parents to British Columbia. After Business School, she was working in Prince George as the first-known female lumber buyer when she met her future husband, Jack Thomas of Smithers Planer. Jack, recognizing a charming woman who could also be an asset to his business, charmed her with a first date which ended up at a romantic view point under the stars. Peggy later learned that the viewpoint was a sanitary land fill, but the romance took hold. Simultaneously starting their own family and both working to build the family business, Jack and Peggy’s time in Smithers was surrounded by their parents, brothers, a sister, in-laws and the many associated children, all within a few short blocks.

After a short stint in the lower mainland of British Columbia, Jack and Peggy bought a vineyard and settled in Penticton in 1968 for the long haul. She became comptroller for Casabello Wines for many years. Some might say that she was a connoisseur of the fine wines of that era. The family denies all reports of inventory leakage during Peggy’s tenure.

Peggy’s house was always full of the neighbourhood’s juvenile delinquents, some of which called her Peggy and many who called her Mom. Simply put, Peggy loved and cared for just about everybody who came in contact with her and, in mostly every case, that love was returned to her until her final day. If Peggy had a message for those that remain, it would be, ‘I have been blessed.’

Special thanks to the staff and management of The Concorde, Dr. Killian and Dr. Clouatre, and the wonderful staff of Penticton Regional Hospital.

You succeeded in giving us all our greatest gift, more time with Peggy!

The family would like to ‘celebrate her life’ with a gathering of friends and family in Penticton when there is warmer weather, easier travel and more availability. If you would like to attend please email deanthomas@shaw.ca or phone 250-276-5909.

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T HREE R IVERS R EPORT From MAY on Front Sacred ground In 2006, sacred ground was uncovered when a BC Hydro team replacing power lines in Hagwilget Village came across what was later identified as human remains. The poles being replaced had been installed in 1959.

A feast at Hagwilget Hall was held after their ancestors’ remains were found and disturbed.

It was not until 2010 that the remains were relocated. When remains were found, work stopped and anthropologists took over the site. Before work continued, Hagwilget Village chief and councillors decided that the remains be dealt with properly.

Community members reported visions and nightmares they thought related to the disturbed remains. When excavation began, more remains, projectile points and other artifacts were found. It was decided to leave the undisturbed remains as they were. The disturbed remains were buried at Hagwilget Village cemetery. BC Hydro apologized and took part in the feast.

Police Beat

Bulkley Valley District Hospital Auxiliary Society

New Hazelton RCMP responded to 87 calls last week.

Dec. 21 – At 6:18 am, police received a call from Strathern Rd in Hazelton. A male suspect broke a window and fled. Police located him nearby and arrested him for mischief and breach of conditions.

Dec. 24 – At 9:53 am police responded to a call on Hwy 16 near South Hazelton. The driver of a westbound SUV lost control, crossed the centreline and rolled onto it’s roof in the south ditch. One occupant was taken to hospital. Road conditions are considered a factor.

Annual General Meeting Tuesday, January 20, 2015 7pm Held at the Healthy Living Centre on Main street.

Everyone Welcome!

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Energy project Agreements were signed for a $26 million Gitxsan energy project at the International Bio-Energy Conference in Prince George.

Gitxsan Bio-Energy was established to build a bioenergy facility to produce white and torrefied black pellets in Carnaby. It was to be owned jointly by Suskwa and Gitsegukla First Nations and Korean investors. It was to be the first large scale commercial deployment of black pellets in B.C. destined for export. The First Nations were to operate the Morning Glory Sawmill and provide fibre for pellet production. About 150 jobs were expected.

Legal woes confronted CEO John Bennett of Global Bio-Energy, hired

by Gitxsan Bio-Energy to supply technology and construction management for the new bio-energy facility in Carnaby, said he didn’t think his legal woes would affect the project.

Bennett was in litigations with his former company, Bennett Environmental Inc. including suits for damages from the company.

The Interior News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

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11/21/14 5:02 PM