Caledonia Courier, February 04, 2015

Inside

◆ Editorial P. 4 ◆ Robbie Burns Night P. 5

◆ New sergeant P. 6 ◆ Hockey P. 7

Publications Mail Contract #: 40007759

WEDNESDAY, February 4, 2015

PHONE: 996-8482 www.caledoniacourier.com

VOL. 37 NO. 49 $1.30 inc. GST

Rebecca Watson photo

Matt Kilback- Raven Rescue instructor, Michael Navratil, Brian Schnepf, John Bennison, Pete Panesar, Robert Hughes, Joy Reierson, James Waddell, Richard Sutton, Ben Barak, Curtis MacDonald, Abigail Moore, Julia Vanderham.

Fearless fire department braves icy water REBECCA WATSON Caledonia Courier

A group of volunteer fire fighters jumped into frigid Stuart Lake waters this weekend all in the name of rescue.

An ice-training refresher course has now brought 12 members of the Fort St. James Fire Department up to speed with the most current skills on how to rescue someone that’s fallen in.

Last year volunteers participated in ice rescue training and were fully certified with the ice rescue technician certificate which is good for three years. This year was a refresher course, Michael Navratil said, fire chief.

“This will help us maintain our skills and be much better prepared to

help people while staying safe ourselves. Historically [someone falls in] consistently every winter so with this training if someone falls through the ice we will have the most up-todate skills to rescue them safely,” Mr. Navratil said.

The training is done by Raven Rescue, the largest training provider in Canada. They provide training for technical rope rescue, confined space rescue, ice rescue, tower rescue and a handful of others.

Instructor Matt Kilback, certified for swift water and ice rescue, showed participants how to use anchors and how to properly scout for hazards. Keeping it simple is one of his main priorities and when it comes to ice rescue, you want it simple, he said.

Continued on page 2/3

Photo submitted by Fort St. James Fire department

A2 www.caledoniacourier.com

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 Caledonia Courier

Courier

NEWS

Fort St. James Curling Club

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING February 6 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the Curling Club

RHB SCHMITZ de GRACE CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

PERSONAL AND CORPORATE TAX FINANCIAL STATEMENT PREPARATION ASSURANCE RHN SCHMITZ GRACE BOOKKEEPING AND DATAde PROCESSING ESTATE PLANNING Fort St. James Of¿ce (Fridays) 169 Stuart Drive Fort St. James, BC V0J 1P0 To schedule an appointment, please call 1-800-976-7780 (toll-free)

Rebecca Watson photo

tera@rhbcpa.ca www.rhbcpa.ca

ROPE TRAINING: Instructor Matt Kilback shows participants the proper way to anchor the ropes.

District of Fort St. James Calendar February, 2015 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY 4

THURSDAY 5

6 10am Plain & Clear Language Wrkshp @ Hub

9:30am Preschool Gym @ Sowchea

10

9

5:30pm Public Skating

11

13

12

15

17

18

Valentine’s Day 7:30pm Live Theatre ‘Maladjusted’ @ Nak’albun

5:30pm Public Skating 6:15pm Hoop Dance

19

20

4pm Parent Tot Skate

21

5:30pm Public Skating

1pm Cancer Support 9:30am Preschool Gym @ Sowchea Group at Sue’s 996-8639

5:30pm Public Skating

14

5pm Mexican Fiesta Fundraiser @ FJSS

7pm Hospital Aux AGM @ Hospital Cafeteria

16

7

4pm Parent tot Skate

9:30am Preschool Gym @ Sowchea

FAMILY DAY

SATURDAY

4pm Parent tot Skate 5:30pm Public Skating 6:15pm Hoop Dance 6:30pm Curling AGM

Please contact Mel at 996-8233 for more info.

8

FRIDAY

6:15pm Hoop Dance CAC Ballet of ‘Cinderella’ @ FSJSS

23

22

24

25

5:30pm Public Skating

1

4

28

6:15pm Hoop Dance Music Makers Play

Music Makers Play

6 WINTERFEST

7pm Movie Night @ David Hoy

WINTERFEST

Caledonia Classic Sled Dog Races @ Cottonwood Park

5:30pm Public Skating

5

WINTERFEST

WINTERFEST

WINTERFEST

4pm Parent Tot Skate

March,, 2015 March

3 WINTERFEST

5:30pm Public Skating

27

9:30am Preschool Gym @ Sowchea

2 WINTERFEST

26

Please submit all events by Wednesday for the next Wednesday paper distribution. ofIJce@fortstjames.ca

The District is seeking volunteers to participate in Winterfest 2015!

Municipal Website: www.fortstjames.ca

• • • • •

7 WINTERFEST 7pm Dance Recital @ FSJSS Music Makers Play

WINTERFEST Music Makers Play Murray Ridge Ski Hill Activities Murray Ridge 2for1 Lift Passes, LIVE MUSIC & Drink Specials

Mexican Fiesta Fundraiser for Maureen Howell Fri Feb 13th @ High School Gym

Office: 477 Stuart Drive West

Doors Open 5pm Dinner 6 - 8pm Live Auction. Toonie Auction. Entertainment. $10 Adults, $5 Children & $30 Family.

Tickets will be available soon at the District Office, Window Box and Terri’s Hair Salon. Auction items can be dropped off at the Window Box. Like us at Facebook: Telephone: Follow us on Twitter: District of Fort St. James 250-996-8233 @DFSJames

Email: office@fortstjames.ca

Caledonia Courier Wednesday, February 4, 2015

www.caledoniacourier.com A3

Courier

NEWS

Rebecca Watson photo

Fearless fire department braves icy water Continued from front “The most important thing is recognizing the hazards,” Mr. Kilback said.

“On Stuart Lake here, this is a controlled environment, but once you are in an area with moving water there are so many more things that can go wrong and so many more variables thrown into it.”

By securing an anchor in the ice far enough away from the edge, it allows the rescuer to attach a rope and potentially save someone solely by themselves.

“But you should always have at least three people, you should never have to resort to [a one person rescue],” Mr. Navratil said.

The ice-rescue suits each participant

wore has thermal protection with flotation built in. It’s all one piece and although it takes a shorter amount of time to put on then a dry suit, it can be quite uncomfortable, Mr. Kilback said.

“It’s not a cold water suit to float around in all the time but to rescue someone it will keep the person warm and floating,” Mr. Kilback said.

A dry suit is an alternative but comes in many pieces. The boots and gloves are separate but if put on correctly will also

be water proof with thermal protection.

The FSJ fire department aquired four ice rescue suits and rescue ropes during last year’s certification.

The cost of the training was covered by the District of Fort St. James in conjunction with the Regional District of Bulkley Nechako.

Residents are also reminded the fire department is currently hosting a recruitment drive which ends March 6.

Contact the hall for further information at 250-996-8670.

Student of the Week ) Fort St. James Secondary Grade 10 ) Nominated by Mr. Waddell

Sammi Roessler has been reffing basketball games almost every day and helping with score tables as well. Sammi is a good PE student. She was huge help during the tournament.

Rebecca Watson photo

SWIMMING: Two fire fighter volunteers give thumbs up in Stuart Lake.

A4 www.caledoniacourier.com

1 /

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 Caledonia Courier

Editorial Page The Caledonia Courier is a member of the British

Distributed every Wednesday in Fort St. James

Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body

Publisher: Pam Berger pam@ominecaexpress.com

governing the province’s newspaper industry. The

Office: Meriella Drogomatz office@ ominecaexpress.com

council considers complaints

Editor: Rebecca Watson newsroom@ caledoniacourier.com

newspapers. Directors oversee

Production: Julia Beal Wendy Haslam wendy@ ominecaexpress.com

newspaper and the complaint

Address: Box 1298 Fort St. James, BC VOJ 1P0

coverage or story treatment,

from the public about the conduct of member the mediation of complaints, with input from both the holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about you may contact the B.C. Press Council.

Member: B.C. Press Council Subscriptions (per year) Local: $43.50 Seniors: $37.30 Outside Local area: $60.15

Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C.

(All rates include GST):

Reproduction of contents either in part or in whole are not permitted without prior consent of the publisher.

Copyright Canada No. 22 Serial No. 132934

V9G 1A9.

For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

• Column

Fear Not - there is help for children with anxiety Column by Dr. David Smith Everyone has times of feeling anxious, scared or fearful.

In fact, without our body’s innate ability to sense and respond to pending danger, we would never have survived as humans.

These days, however, anxiety disorders are like a car alarm repeatedly sounding when there is no real threat.

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health concern for children in B.C., affecting an estimated four per cent of all children, impacting their dayto-day life, their friendships, their school performance, their physical health and their sense of well-being. My colleagues and I in the mental health field are concerned that in this modern, fast-paced, wired world, anxiety disorders in children are greatly increasing. We are seeing more children than ever before who are constrained and made miserable by their fears when they should be feeling safe, secure, confident and

happy.

Anxious feelings include a rapid heartbeat, difficulty catching one’s breath, a sense of doom, sweaty palms, an upset stomach or stomach ache, even nausea and vomiting. Focusing on the feelings can cause them to intensify, a vicious cycle.

Anxious symptoms become a true anxiety disorder when the anxiety leads to avoidance of the situation that is causing the anxiety and causes significant physical distress and disruption of daily life and functioning.

An unresolved anxiety disorder can often lead to depression or substance use problems in future years.

Anxiety, however, exists on a spectrum. A certain amount of anxiety is normal and beneficial. It keeps our children safe and conscientious; it motivates them to perform well. Children who tend to be anxious are often model students: high achieving, diligent, analytical, sensitive, alert, creative and imaginative.

Too little anxiety and a child or teenager may take foolish risks

or lack motivation to succeed.

But too much anxiety and children become so paralyzed by fear that they may be unable to leave their parent’s side, leave the house, go to school, make friends or participate in normal life.

The good news is that anxiety can be very successfully managed or treated when required.

Regular exercise and reliable routines in children are often all it takes to quell mild cases.

Mild and moderate anxiety is very responsive to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which is a process of addressing the unhelpful thoughts and actions that underlie anxiety.

Thought stopping, talking back to negative thoughts, not believing everything you think, relaxation techniques like calming breathing, mindfulness meditation, and gradual safe exposure to the things you fear are all examples of types of CBT. All children — and adults, too — could benefit from learning simple CBT techniques to turn off their body alarms that

Look for us online at : caledoniacourier.com

are sounding unnecessarily. In more long term or severe cases of anxiety — such as panic disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder — treatment may include a period of anti-anxiety medication in addition to teaching the child age-appropriate CBT techniques, an approach called “pills plus skills.”

If you are worried about your child or teenager’s anxiety, there are many places to get help. Many online resources as well as books, some written for specific age groups, are available to give in depth information about anxiety and stepby-step instructions for specific CBT techniques. For parents of children and youth, the FORCE Society, in partnership with MCFD’s FRIENDS Program, offers an online parent program for parents of children ages 4-13 years. Anxiety BC (anxietybc.ca ) is another great site and offers detailed pages for adults and youth. Other sites include mindcheck.ca and keltymentalhealth.ca. If you feel

your child needs professional help, see your family doctor or call Service BC at 1-800-6618773 and ask for the MCFD Child and Youth Mental Health office in your community.

Next column, we will talk about depression in children and teenagers.

Dr. David Smith is an adolescent and adult psychiatrist, the medical director of the Okanagan Psychiatric services for Interior Health, and a contracted psychiatrist for Child and Youth Mental Health for the Ministry of Children and Family Development. This series of columns is a project of the Child and Youth Mental Health and Substances Use Collaborative, which involves multiple individuals, organizations and ministries all working together to increase the number of children, youth, and their families receiving timely access to mental health services and support.

The Collaborative is jointly funded by the Government of British Columbia and Doctors of BC.

E-mail us at : newsroom@caledoniacourier.com

Caledonia Courier Wednesday, February 4, 2015

www.caledoniacourier.com A5

Courier

NEWS

SENIORS COMPUTERS COURSES OFFERED IN 2015!...March 17: Basic Computers Cont’d. April 14: Facebook 101. April 28: Shopping Safely Online. May 12: Working with photos. Come and Join Us! It’s FREE. Call 250-996-7078 for more information. The Learning Hub College of New Caledonia.

See Full Page Views $

344

Month

+HST For as low as You can NOW read THE CALEDONIA COURIER

ON LINE PAGE BY PAGE

WITH AN E-SUBSCRIPTION

INCLUDES ALL

ADVERTISING You can subscribe online at caledoniacourier.com or call 250-567-9258 and we will help you set up your e-sub to 169 Stuart Drive West, at the Lakeshore Realty office

A bard’s life toasted RUTH LLOYD Contributed

There were kilts, haggis, tatties and neeps, and of course, a bit of scotch to toast with.

It was the Robbie Burns supper celebration at the Legion in Fort St. James Jan. 23, hosted by the Music on the Mountain Society.

While a couple days early for the birthday of Robert Burns, (who was actually born on January 25 in 1759), it is considered acceptable to hold Robbie Burns Suppers anywhere close to his

actual birthday.

Now, if you don’t know the tradition of Robbie Burns Night Supper, then you have been missing out on a great Scottish tradition celebrated around the world to honour the life works of the Scottish poet and activist Robert Burns.

Even if you are not immediately familiar with Burns himself, you are guaranteed to know at least one of his compositions.

The song you have heard countless times around New Year’s is “Auld Lang Syne” (if you don’t know

the title, the first line “Should old acquaintance be forgot….” probably rings a bell) was put to paper by Robbie Burns.

Burns is a famous and m u c h - l ove d Scotsman and he was celebrated in a proper fashion in Fort St. James.

There were a couple of men in kilts and Music on the Mountain president Lionel Conant once again read the Address to a Haggis before lifting a glass of scotch whiskey in the bard’s honour - haggis being the traditional Scottish

meat pudding dish served at these suppers.

There was a delicious meal which included the usual haggis accompaniments of tatties and neeps (potatoes and turnips) but prepared with the local flavour of The Soup Wallah Cafe.

The meal was extensive and delicious, and followed up by the opening act of Steve and Astrid with a ukulele and drums.

But it was Malcolm MacLean and his band who stole the show, with apologies

Cedric literacy awards Attention BC seniors who enjoy writing. The Cedric Literary Awards will have an official start Feb. 1 welcoming all unpublished British Columbian authors and First Nation story tellers age 50 or older to submit their work. It is a first-of-it’s kind literary awards program in Canada created specifically to recognize unpublished BC writers

of fiction, non-fiction, poetry and First Nation storytelling.

“As the creator of The Cedric Literary Awards, I encourage all unpublished BC writers in the 50-plus demographic to dust off manuscripts that may have been languishing on bookshelves for far too long.

The time has finally come to showcase those literary gems,” Dr. Peter Dale said, the

awards founder.

Submissions are invited starting Feb. 1 and the deadline for receipt of submissions is May. 1 and will be forwarded to an independent selection panel made up of members who are recognized in BC and beyond in the fields of writing and publishing.

For full details visit www. thecedrics.ca.

to Robert Burns.

There was a stand up bass, Joey Only on drums and some great guitar and mandolin, but it was Malcolm MacLean’s voice which ruled them all.

The dance floor saw some use and Johnny Cash was even honoured with a cover of Folsom Prison Blues.

Another great night in honour of a great poet and Scotsman.

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER • 6:30PM SHARP! THURSDAY FEB.5 26TH • 6:30PM SHARP ALSO... SELLING 75-100 CARS, ON HAND BANK REPOS VEHICLES FROM ON HANDWILL WILLBEBEAPPROX 10-153-5VEHICLES FROM&&10SPORT TRUCKS, VANS UTILITY VEHICLES FROM MAJOR FLEET, VEHICLE MANAGEMENT LEASE, DEALER, PRIVATE & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS. ALSO...Selling Vans SUVsfrom from ALSO... Selling75-100 75-100Cars, Cars,Trucks, Trucks, Vansand & SUVs Major Major Fleet Fleet Lease, Lease, Dealer Dealer & Private Financial Institutions

YOUHAVE HAVEAAVEHICLE VEHICLEFOR FORTHIS THISAUCTION, AUCTION ITIT MUST MUST BE BE ON ON THE THE GROUND GROUND BY IFIFYOU MONDAY, SEPTEMBER - SPACE PERMITTING SEESALE YOU DAY! SALE DAY! MONDAY, FEB.2 AT23RD NOONAT- 5PM SPACE PERMITTING - SEE -YOU

DL 9069

Photo submitted by Ruth Lloyd

VEHICLE AUCTION

Central Interior Auctions Ltd.

4174 COWART RD. Prince George

562-5200 • FAX (250) 562-9616 • INTERAC • BANK DRAFT TERMS OF SALE •• CASH CERTIFIED CHEQUE • LETTERS OF CREDIT Website: www.ciauctions.bc.ca (250)

Student of the Week ) Fort St. James Secondary Grade 10 ) Nominated by Mr. Waddell

Jayden Greenaway has been reffing basketball games almost every day and helping with score tables as well. Jayden is a good PE student. He was huge help during the tournament.

A6 www.caledoniacourier.com

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 Caledonia Courier

NEWS

Courier Commanding northern communities ( Va n d e r h o o f boundaries go east to lloyd drive, west to Willowvale Rd., north to Dog Creek service road and south 30 km. Fort St. James hits Vanderhoof boundary by Dog Creek and goes north roughly three hours.)

Sgt. Nielsen and his wife knew they would like the community since they had knowledge of the area through friends and family ties. They plan on staying in Vanderhoof for a while. “I like having the advantages of a small town feel but having access to the larger centre. I think I’m going to like it here,� he said with a smile.

AUXILIARY TO STUART LAKE HOSPITAL...

Monthly meeting 2nd Wednesday each month. Hospital Cafeteria 7:00 p.m.

In partnership with

Introducing the New Save.ca Mobile Cash-Back Feature.

With exclusive offers for the brands you love & $5 cash-out minimums through PayPal, you’ll never go shopping without your smart phone again!

1. Browse & Shop Browse the mobile app for your favourite brand’s offers, and purchase them at any store

2. Upload Receipt 3. Get Cash Back!

Take a photo of your receipt and submit it through the app

Once you reach just $5, the money you save will be transferred into your PayPal wallet

Rebecca Watson photo

Svend Neilsen is seen in his bare office in Vanderhoof. Considering he bounces back and forth from Fort St. James and Vanderhoof he doesn’t have time to decorate.

REBECCA WATSON Omineca Express

Vanderhoof— There’s a new smiling sergeant in town, commander Svend Nielsen with the Vanderhoof RCMP. Originally from 100 Mile House, Sgt. Nielsen has been a member for 12 years working as an officer all over the province - Kamloops, Masset, Haida Gwaii, Campbell River, Comox Valley, Fort St. James and now Vanderhoof. “I do it to help people. It’s an honour getting to do what we do, no matter what the situation is. Sometimes it’s a difficult situation but we can go in and help and ultimately make things better,� Sgt. Nielsen said, who was promoted last December as lead commander in Vanderhoof.

He most recently worked in Fort St. James for three and-a-half years where he became acting sergeant in June 2014 due to the previous commander’s retirement. “He has great interpersonal

skills and leads by example.

He’s a superior supervisor,� acting Cpl. Derek Rondeau said of the Fort St. James detachment.

Vanderhoof has functioned without a commander for more than six months now however, the Fort St. James detachment continues to be low on man power, Sgt. Nielsen said, who right now bounces back and forth between the two towns. “For the time being, I will actually remain acting commander of the Fort St. James RCMP and Cpl. Justin Thiessen will remain acting commander in Vanderhoof,� Sgt. Nielsen said.

Sgt. Nielsen moved to Vanderhoof in December with his wife Tanis and four children.

He says he likes to live where he works. “You have to know the community and the best way to do that is get out in it and meet the people of the community,� Sgt. Nielsen said.

Coming to the Nechako Valley has proven to be a shift in dynamic for him having

worked in much larger centres. Yet it’s been a change he was happy to make. “Generally you have closer relationships with people in the smaller centres. It’s a different dynamic but that’s the part I enjoy tremendously,�

Sgt. Nielsen said. “Sometimes personal relationships in a smaller city can assist in gaining information on files.

When people get to know and respect you it influences how they deal with you.�

His duties in both towns currently vary but as acting commander in Fort St. James, he has taken on more of an administrative role. “In Vanderhoof its more of a bit of both [in-office and patrol],� he said.

And with him being in both places it has created an even stronger relationship between Takla landing, Fort St. James and Vanderhoof RCMP. “Since numbers of members is low, it’s bound to form a bound between the detachments so even the boarders blur,� he said.

JOI NTHEFORTSTJAMES FI REDEPARTMENTTODAY!

!"#$%&'(') *+( !

, -

Caledonia Courier Wednesday, February 4, 2015

www.caledoniacourier.com A7

Courier

NEWS

Rebecc Wason photo

Flags were lowered to half-mast on Friday, Jan. 30 at the University of Northern British Columbia’s Prince George campus, to honour Louise Burgart, who was laid to rest in Fort St. James on Feb. 1.

Louise was a strong supporter and friend of UNBC and served on the Board of Governors from 2008 to 2014.

THE FOUNDATION of my community starts with you and me Conifex . . . Employees and their EFAP Committee RECREATION EDUCATION ENVIRONMENT ARTS SOCIAL SERVICES

Fort St. James play Williams Lake in an exciting take down. Williams Lake put up a good fight but were no match for the Fort’s quick agility and persistent puck play.

Hockey tournament scores Saturday Ladies

beavers vs Canfor 4-3

Vanderhoof vs PG 0-3 Mackenzie vs Fort St. James 5-2 PG vs Burns Lake 7-1 Williams Lake vs Fort St. James 1-4 Burns Lake vs Vanderhoof 3-7 Williams Lake vs Mackenzie 0-6

Sunday ladies playoff

Men Saturday Canfor vs Salty Islanders 6-3 4th Liners vs Salty Islanders 6-3

3rd and 4thVanderhoof vs Fort St. James 5-1 5th and 6th Burns Lake vs Williams Lake 6-0 1st and 2nd Prince George vs Mackenzie 10-1

COMMUNITY MAKES YOU. YOU MAKE YOUR COMMUNITY. Conifex employees donate through the Fort St. James Community Foundation “Deductions At Source” program, taking advantage of the best tax incentive for donations to charity and possibly boost recreational opportunities.

They challenge all local businesses and employees to meet or beat their donations. Conifex and their EFAP Committee held a fundraising, lunch time barbeque at work.

Mens Sunday Beavers Vs Salty Islanders 2-9 4th Liners vs Canfor, 4th Liners won for 1st place Salty Islanders won.

communityfoundations.ca

To win in the marketplace, you must first win in the workplace.

/localwork-bc

1.855.678.7833

@localworkbc

A8 www.caledoniacourier.com

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 Caledonia Courier

NEWS Mount Polley design, steep addition led to failure Courier

BY TOM FLETCHER

investigation is complete.

Bennett said the government is willing to see the Mount Polley mine reopen, but the other investigations must be complete first. The parent company Imperial Metals has applied to

Black Press

The Mount Polley mine dam failed because of an overlooked glacial material layer in the foundation and a series of steep additions that eventually overcame it, an independent engineering review has concluded.

“Basically the weight of the dam was too much for the weak materials in the foundation to bear,” said U.S. consulting engineer Steven Vick, one of three experts called in to examine the failure that caused the dam to breach and fail in August 2014.

The report concludes that the concrete-like glacial till material in the base of the dam wasn’t understood in enough detail when the dam was designed and built in 1997. Later raising of the dam to hold more water and tailings weakened the base layer and led to the failure.

Vick said the additions to the dam were

use an existing pit to store tailings and resume operations without using the original tailings pond again.

“This was a horrible accident,” Bennett said.

“We now know how it happened.”

OUR LADY OF THE SNOWS ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH (Across from the Petrocan Station)

SUNDAY LITURGY: Saturday 7:30 pm & Sunday 10:30 am DAILY MASS: Monday - Friday 9:00 am PASTORAL TEAM: FATHER FRANK SALMON 250-996-8343 SR. MAURINE BARZANTNI, SR.RENEE RICHIE, SR. DIVINA PEDRO 250-996-2275

THE CHURCHES OF FORT ST. JAMES

Ministry of Environment photo

Tailings dam at Mount Polley mine has been modified since the Aug. 4 breach to contain further flow of tailings into Quesnel Lake. built at a steeper slope than the original dam, and plans to buttress the area were delayed until it was too late.

Energy and Mines

Minister Bill Bennett said the report shows there were no warning signs, and no surface inspections could have detected the problem that

Search continues for missing McLeod Police have found the vehicles in the missing person case of Jordan McLeod 24, of Prince George. Thanks to information received from the public, officers in Vanderhoof were able to locate the grey Chrysler 200 and the Prince George RCMP with assistance from Williams Lake RCMP were able to locate the Chevrolet Malibu Jordan was driving. The Malibu was located near Rudy Johnson Bridge that separates West Fraser Road and Soda Creek Road, northeast of Williams Lake.

Police are still searching for Jordan and the police ask the public with any further information to call 9-1-1 immediately.

Police are treating the investigation as a homicide although no body has been found.

They believe Jordan’s disappearance is in connection with shots fired early January on Upper Fraser Road near Highway 16 east of the Prince George. Reports say evidence located at Virgil Humthe scene may indicate mingbird Thomas someone was injured. of Fort St. James McLeod was last seen is currently in in Vanderhoof and custody in Prince George. He pled Prince George on Jan. guilty to charges 16 and is believed to of manslaughter frequent both commubut then skipped nities. out on his court Jordan is described appearance beas (see attached photo) fore being picked · First Nations up in Delta. His male matter has now · 178 cm (5’10”) been adjourned · 70 kg (154 lbs) until March. 27. · Short brown hair · Brown eyes

Virgil update

was overlooked in the design and original construction.

Two more investigations of the mine failure are pending. Bennett

said the Chief Inspector of Mines is likely to release his report by this summer, and the Conservation Officers’ Service will also report when its

Another reason to choose Integris Sandra Davidson, ACRML )LQDQFLDO 6HUYLFHV 2ƯFHU

Accredited Consumer and Residential Mortgage Lender Integris would like to congratulate Sandra Davidson on completing the Consumer & Residential Mortgage Lender (ACRML) Accreditation through the Credit Union Institute of Canada (CUIC) in partnership with Dalhousie University.

6DQGUD KDV EHHQ D )LQDQFLDO 6HUYLFHV 2ƯFHU ZLWK Integris for ten years. “Having the tools available to FRPSOHWH D ƬQDQFLDO HGXFDWLRQ LV DQ LQFUHGLEOH EHQHƬW WR ,QWHJULVp VWDƪ , KDYH EHHQ ZRUNLQJ WKURXJK WKH $&50/ SURJUDP VLQFH DQG ƬQLVKLQJ P\ DFFUHGLWDWLRQ LV DQ HGXFDWLRQDO PLOHVWRQH , DP WKH EHVW SRVVLEOH YHUVLRQ RI P\VHOI t GHGLFDWHG WR SURYLGLQJ NQRZOHGJHDEOH VHUYLFH WR P\ PHPEHUV ” Congratulations Sandra!

366 Stuart Dr West Fort St. James, BC 250.996.8667

integriscu.ca

Caledonia Courier Wednesday, February 4, 2015

www.caledoniacourier.com A9

Courier

NEWS

LNG part of diversified economy: Clark BILL PHILLIPS Prince George Free Press

Perhaps listening to critics who have been critical that the province is placing too much emphasis on liquefied natural gas.

Or perhaps it’s because the liquefied natural gas industry has slowed its rush in B.C. Or perhaps it’s because oil prices have dropped and natural gas may follow.

At any rate, Premier Christy Clark touted LNG as only one aspect of a diversified provincial economy during her speech to a standing-room-only crowd at the Civic Centre Wednesday.

“We have very much diversified our economy,” she said. “Because we are diverse, that means we have successfully protected our economy against the worst of the ups and downs of any specific market.”

With Alberta and Newfoundland reeling from the drop in oil prices, Clark said British Columbia has an ability to adapt.

That ability to adapt has allowed the province to stick with the economic plan that it adopted in 2011. And the results, she said, will be a balanced budget next month.

Speaking at the Natural Resource Forum, Clark was obviously touting the benefit of natural resources. With the Tsilhqot’in Supreme Court ruling last year, the ground

rules have changed.

“In the Tsilqot’in case we were presented with a new opportunity,” she said.

“A new opportunity to strengthen the bond that we have with First Nations. We recognize that we need to build a more stable, more predictable, more fair partnership with B.C.’s First Peoples.”

She said the province’s is taking steps to ensure that First Nations are “full and fair partners.”

However, she was greeted in Prince George with a letter signed by eight Carrier Sekani chiefs saying their concerns regarding LNG development “have been largely ignored” by the provincial government.

Clark added that while some may be concerned that the LNG market has slowed, the province has done everything it can to make sure the industry takes off.

“The work we’re doing with LNG companies has been doing really well,” she said. “This is the next big opportunity for diversifying British Columbia’s economy.”

She said the province continues to work with Shell. Exxon has pushed up its hopedfor start date. AltaGas is also continuing to move ahead and Woodside has stepped into the Chevron project in Kitimat.

“We are seeing real progress in the background in LNG,” she said.

Premier Christy Clark shows off a 2015 Canada Winter Games jersey with her name on the back during the 12th annual Premer’s Natural Resources Bill Phillips/Free Press Forum in Prince George Wednesday.

THE STUART NECHAKO ADVERTISER CAN BE PICKED UP AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS...

VANDERHOOF

Omineca Express office Vanderhoof Co-op - Grocery Co-op Mall - Lobby Co-op Mall - Rear Entrance Vanderhoof Co-op C Store Extra Foods Vanderhoof Post Office Riverside Place Nechako View Senior’s Home Speedway Road Mapes CJ’s Trailer Court Loop Road Prairiedale Braeside Road Jones Road Sob Lake Road Redfern Drive Sinkut Frontage Road Kenny Dam & Lakes Road J&S Restaurant

ENDAKO

Endako Bar & Grill

CLUCULZ LAKE BROOKSIDE RESORT FRASER LAKE

Par 3 Sports Fraser Lake Rexall Fraser Lake Building Supplies

ENGEN

Engen Road Giesbrecht Frontage Road

FORT FRASER

Fort Fraser Petro Can

FORT ST JAMES

Lakeshore Realty Sana’aih Market Overwaitea Foods Fort Loonie Bin Fas Gas Plus Lakeside Pharmacy

A10 www.caledoniacourier.com

Inside

rais P. 3

X Speedy Desma 5 n P. X Water solutio

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 Caledonia Courier

champs P. 6

X Hockey t P. 7 X Sklyer Barfoo

Mail Publications Contract #: 40007759

Subscriptions

GST 48 $1.30 inc.

VOL. 37 NO. rier.com www.caledoniacou PHONE: 996-8482 2015 January 28, WEDNESDAY,

RCMP intercept robbery at Overwaitea

in custody after Two men are fill a truck with attempting to from Overwaitea stolen goods St. James.

Foods in Fort

Speedy rais Desmaway to

REBECCA WATSON Caledonia Courier

and Matd are Deryl MOORE The co-accuse from Prince George. by both thew JONES, Jan. 15 a suspicious vehicle caught the attenAt 2 am on apunloading dock Overwaitea’s James RCMP. As the police off St. the truck sped The tion of Fort grocery store, behind. proached the partner-in-crime as he ely arrested leaving an alleged was immediat items of food man on-scene caught with multiple Within secrobbery. was blatantly evident the of ed the officers winter in the middle dispatch notifi in the 2015 been for short track onds of his arrest, the store who had also photo inside With Team BC Rebecca Watson to find a femalea of a worker of will skate inside police went put inside is 17, of Vanderho 3. robbed. The who had been Alison Desmara See story page stole her wallet. custodial worker SPEED SKATER: in Prince George. after the crooks until she no walk-in freezer games this February nearly an hour, able to get was then There she waited, thieves. She found longer herd the and call police. no weapons we had damage with taken out of the freezer in the truck sped off e in had no apparent A number of items were types “When the guy had to investigat their person. meat and other The custody and a time but we on one man in around. the store including one issue at thrown from take things to items had good s in the multiple store. We of food with plate. Sometime severely harmed had the vehicle Sgt. Nielsen said. worker was not damaged (separate , police custodial a freezer was in). happen quickly,” assisting the custodian ap- process but and she was put Shortly after that a male suspect had was from the freezer are currently in custody 19. ‘his truck received a report The two males first appearance on Jan. in houses claimingcold’, asking the 2 their proached two was out have since had date is scheduled for Feb. forditch and he RCMP went not stuck in the from Their next court the Crown has the two to let him inside. home owners and recognized the truck and Fort St. James. Although process, e the charging was arrested robbery Thursunlawful to investigat of robbery, The male driver Fort St. James at- mally completed had an attempted face charges Overwaitea. a grocery store Prince George. Rebecca Watson photo taken to the indeed will likely and break-and-entering. hurt. It’s both perps were the suspects truck was males from THIEVES: Overwaite no one was Historic confinement at 2am by two Later, thankful National the tachment.

Witgez said, day, Jan. 15 “We’re just in the ditch by as usual,” Ryan found stuck to business two crooks back Site. has shown the store manager. which collected door front Evidence a through the got in Overwaite

skates da 2015 Cana es Winter Gam

ar End

G

G

Ye NCE RA CLEA JANUARY d!!!

END OF Use

G

TO , New and On both make more room !!

Time to savings on both amazing

1-888-449-4029 TOLL FREE: 250-567-4781 16 EAST 1473 HWY DL # 30423 om www.westlineford.c

G

G

Special Events

Tel: 250-567-9258

Classifieds

News

advertising@ominecaexpress.com newsroom@caledoniacourier.com Web: www.caledoniacourier.com

Photos

Flyers

Caledonia Courier Wednesday, February 4, 2015

www.caledoniacourier.com A11

Your community. Your classiďŹ eds.

250.567.9258 fax 250.567.2070 email advertising@ominecaexpress.com Announcements P.O. Box 1298 Fort St. James, B.C. V0J 1P0

250-996-8482 E-Mail: wendy@ ominecaexpress. com Caledonia Courier published every Wednesday Stuart/Nechako Advertiser published every Friday ADVERTISING DEADLINES Courier -- Friday, 11-noon Advertiser -- Tuesday, 12-noon

TERMS & CONDITIONS Advertisements should be read on the ďŹ rst publication day. We are not responsible for errors appearing beyond the ďŹ rst insertion. NO CASH REFUNDS AGREEMENT: It is agreed by any display or classiďŹ ed advertiser requesting space that the liability of the paper in the event that errors occur in the publishing of any advertisement shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for the portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect item only, and there will be no liability in any event beyond the amount paid for such advertisement.

DISCRIMINATION LEGISLATION: Advertisers are reminded that provincial legislation forbids the publication of any advertisement which discriminated against any person because of race, religion, sex, colour, nationality, ancestry, place of origin, or age unless the condition is justiďŹ ed by a bona ďŹ de requirement for the work involved.

COPYRIGHT: Copyright and/or property rights subsist in all advertisements and in all other advertising material appearing in this edition of the Omineca Express. Permission to reproduce wholly or in any part and in any form whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or offset process in a publication, must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any unauthorized reproduction will be subject to recourse in law.

Merchandise for Sale

Rentals Shared Accommodation

Information

Medical/Dental

Financial Services

Misc. for Sale

APPLY NOW: A $2,500 Penny Wise scholarship is available for a woman entering the Journalism CertiďŹ cate Program at Langara College in Vancouver. Application deadline April 30, 2015. Send applications: fbula@langara.bc.ca More information avail. online: www.bccommunitynews.com /our-programs/scholarship.

MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION is an in-demand career in Canada!

Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get the online training you need from an employer-trusted program.

Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-888528-0809 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

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.

SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - Make money & save money with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD available online: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/ 400OT or call 1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT.

Travel

Trades, Technical

Travel Phone:

Services

Employment

RV LOT rentals $8.95 a day.

362 days of sunshine, pets, events, classes, entertainment. Reserve by 02/14/2015. www.hemetrvresort.com. Call: 1-800-926-5593

Employment Business Opportunities GET FREE vending machines.

Can earn $100,000+ per year.

All cash-retire in just 3 years.

Protected Territories. Full Details call now 1-866-668-6629.

Website www.tcvend.com.

THE DISABILITY Tax Credit. $1500 yearly tax credit. $15,000 lump sum refund (on avg). Covers: hip/knee replacements, back conditions and restrictions in walking and dressing. 1-844-453-5372.

Career Opportunities NEW YEAR, new career! CanScribe Medical Transcription graduates are in high demand.

Enrol today and be working from home in one year! Email: info@canscribe.com. Call 1800-466-1535.

Website: www.canscribe.com.

CLIMBER/BUCKET operator needed immediately for tree service company in the Fraser Valley. $35.00/hr based on experience. 604-819-9447 the.treeguy@hotmail.com CONSTRUCTION TRADES AND SUPPLIERS NEEDED. Kerkhoff Construction is tendering multiple projects in Kitimat, BC. Projects include a 49-unit wood-frame apartment; 50 unit townhome development. Contact for tender package.

604-824-4122. steve@kerkhoff.ca.

Resumes for site supervision, general labour, ďŹ rst aid attendants, etc also welcome.

LARGE FUND Borrowers Wanted Start saving hundreds of dollars today! We can easily approve you by phone. 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage money is available right now. Rates start at Prime. Equity counts.

We don’t rely on credit, age or income.

Call Anytime 1-800-639-2274 or 604-430-1498. Apply online www.capitaldirect.ca

Pets & Livestock

STEEL BUILDINGS. “Really big sale!� All steel building models and sizes. Plus extra savings. Buy now and we will store until spring. Call Pioneer Steel at 1-800-668-5422 or online: www.pioneersteel.ca

Pets

Misc. Wanted

Std POODLE pups, CKC, M/F, 16 wks, trained, all shots, health guar’t, exc. pedigree, $1800. Camaraderie Kennels, Victoria (250)381-0855

Merchandise for Sale

Services

Auctions

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

Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420 www.pioneerwest.com

BUD HAYNES & Ward’s Firearms Auction.

Saturday, March 7, 10 a.m., 11802 - 145 St., Edmonton, Alberta. One Man’s Collection, store dispersal, case lots, ammo, etc.

Consign now.

Catalogue w/pictures online. Phone 403347-5855 or 780-451-4549; www.budhaynesauctions.com; www.WardsAuctions.com.

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Financial Services

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: www.crownsteelbuildings.ca.

Private Collector Looking to Buy Coin Collections, Silver, Antiques, Native Art, Estates + Chad: 778-281-0030 Local

WWW ALZHEIMERBC ORG

Career Opportunities

BUSINESS DIRECTORY OIL & LUBE

BAM BAM

Help Wanted Community Health Nurse sought in Port Hardy, BC. Request job description or apply to marie.hunt@kwakiutl.bc.ca

by Feb 22. Competitive salary offered. Tel. 250-949-6625 Vernon Service Company requires F/T Journeyman Plumber/GasďŹ tter. $36/hr. Call 250-549-4444 or email: pres@aslanservices.ca

Home Stay Families HOST FAMILIES needed!

Northern Youth Abroad is looking for families to host 2 youth from Nunavut/NWT volunteering in your community July/August. www.nya.ca or Toll-Free 1-866-212-2307.

240 Douglas, Fort St. James In the old Fort Diesel Building

CALL

CHANGE AND LUBE

778-667-0346

“Warranty Approved�

TIRES

to book you appointment!

NEWSPAPERS Serving Fort St. James and area since 1972

(1 year Temporary Position)

Must be able to have extended stays away from home. Up to 6 months. Must have valid AZ, DZ, 5, 3 or 1 with airbrake license and have previous commercial driving experience.

Apply at:www.sperryrail.com, careers & then choose the FastTRACK Application.

Oil & Lube

Oil

Pam Berger Publisher

SITE ADMINISTRATOR — RIVERSIDE PLACE SENIORS COMPLEX AZ, DZ, 5, 3 or 1 w/ Airbrake • Guaranteed 40hr. Work Week & Overtime • Paid Travel & Lodging • Meal Allowance • 4 Weeks Vacation • Excellent BeneďŹ ts Package

2010 CHEV Silverado 85,700 Kms, 6.0 Liter Vortec - 6 speed automatic, tow package - brake controller, A/C, power windows/locks, Tonneau package, security system/Onstar, extending heated mirrors, all vinyl oor - no carpet. Asking $27,000 OBO (250) 691-1641

FORT ST. JAMES AND AREA

4HERE S MORE TO LOSE THAN JUST MEMORIES

Trucks & Vans

SHARED ACCOMMODATION available for a mature reliable adult. Must be employed with references. Camp worker preferred. No kids/No parties.

In town limits (Vanderhoof) Apply to Box C in care of Omineca Express or call 250-567-9258.

Drivers/Courier/ Trucking

DRIVERS WANTED

Transportation

The Site Administrator oversees the day-to-day operation and maintenance of Riverside Place Seniors Housing Complex performing duties such as ensuring adherence to residence policies and procedures, supervising staff and ensuring residence safety and maintenance. Performs administrative functions related to property management and landlord/tenant relations such as completing annual rent reviews and subsidy application forms, rent collection, security deposits, petty cash, bookkeeping functions, banking, and related record keeping. Riverside Place has 32 rental units which consists of both Assisted Living and Supportive Housing units for seniors and persons with disabilities.

250-996-8482 Advertising: advertising@ominecaexpress.com News: newsroom@caledoniacourier.com Website: www.caledoniacourier.com

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE: • • • • • • • • •

Diploma or degree in Community Social Service, or Health Care Administration.

Training and Experience Certificate in First Aid and CPR Building Manager (Residential) Certificate Recent, related experience of two years Or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience Or other Qualifications determined to be reasonable and relevant to the level of work Must demonstrate an understanding of theory, principles and practices in the field Must possess basic computer skills

SALARY: Competitive wages and benefits offered HOURS OF WORK: 25 Hours per week (1 year contract) CLOSING DATE: February 13, 2015 START DATE: As soon as possible This position is open to female and male applicants. Please apply for this job only in the manner specified failure to do so may result in your application not being considered for the position.

Please send a cover letter of interest and current resume outlining your skills and qualifications for the position and include the job posting # 2015 – 006 EMAIL: tarnold@nvcss.ca FAX: 250-567-3939 MAIL: Tyrell Arnold, Executive Director Nechako Valley Community Services Society Box 1249, Vanderhoof, BC VOJ 3A0 Nechako Valley Community Services Society is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce.

We thank all our applicants, however, only those invited to an interview will be contacted.

Serving Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, Fort Fraser and Fraser Lake

Pam Berger Publisher 150 W. Columbia St Box 1007, Vanderhoof BC V0J 3A0

Tel: 250-567-9258 Fax: 250-567-2070 Email: advertising@ominecaexpress.com

ADvertiser STUART NECHAKO

Reaching Every Door

Serving Vanderhoof, Fort St. James, Fort Fraser and Fraser Lake

Pam Berger Publisher 150 W. Columbia St Box 1007, Vanderhoof BC V0J 3A0

Tel: 250-567-9258 Fax: 250-567-2070 Email: advertising@ominecaexpress.com

BC Family Day

A12 www.caledoniacourier.com

Wednesday, February 4, 2015 Caledonia Courier

February 9th This holiday celebrates the importance of families and family life to people and their communities.

Keep busy with fun activities Here are some activities to enjoy with the family * Put out bird seed or a suet block and feed the neighborhood birds. Compare the different species that come to grab an easy meal. Artistic kids can sketch what they see by looking out the window. * Shovel a shallow path in the snow around the yard to create a snow maze. Build snow blinds, behind which kids can hide. * Gather winter nature items, like pine cones and icicles. Look for frozen “fossils.” * Brew a thermos full of hot chocolate and go sit out with the neighbors who are probably going a bit stir crazy as well. * Check in on elderly friends and neighbors and offer to shovel their driveways and walkways, if necessary. * Pretend you are on a North Pole expedition and hike through the neighborhood in a quest to reach the summit of a mountain or to find a hidden treasure. * Use spray bottles or squirt bottles filled with water and food coloring to draw masterpieces in the snow. * Gather a clean patch of snow and pour maple syrup onto it.

Allow to harden and then enjoy homemade maple candies. * Explore and look for winter plants and other foliage that survive the chill. * Grab skates and head to an ice rink or solid (and safe) pond. * Decorate an outdoor tree with streamers and popcorn garland. * If it’s too chilly for a picnic in the snow, place a blanket on the

family room floor and enjoy an indoor picnic. * Rent a movie and cuddle on the couch under blankets. * Put on some tunes and dance around the house. * Play a classic game, such as Twister(R) . * Take out modeling clay or dough and create different play figures or ornaments. * Whip up a hearty meal together, giving kids free reign over the ingredients. * Play with toy trucks and cars in the snow. * Engage in a snowball fight. * Find the tallest hill in the area and test your bravery on the back of a sled. * Chase the dog around the backyard. Dogs often like to play in the snow, too. * Sit in sunny windows and read books silently or to the group. * Snowmobiling together * Make sock puppets and put on a show. * Take the family ice fishing * Bake a batch of brownies or cookies. * Try out downhill and cross country skiing There are many different and fun ways to pass the hours.

Experience as a Family Try something new this Family Day. It might be as simple as agreeing that everyone observe a no-technology or TV day.

If you find your gatherings often involve all the adults sitting around visiting while the youngsters play among themselves and the teens segregate away from both you and the little ones, you’re probably not alone.

A family gathering can be a wonderful opportunity for family to hear the latest on jobs, trips, hobbies and health, but if you find your gatherings following the same tedious patterns consider adding new experiences to the plans, and making a new and fun tradition out of them.

Here are some ideas to get started: Get out and enjoy our beautiful outdoors – no matter what your weather. If you live in a snowy region of B.C., organize a snowshoe trek, sledding time or ice skating at a community rink.

The idea is to bring everyone together in

a family activity you’ve never done before. gathering this year, you’ll be creating many Make your Family Day gathering a re- new memories to share in the future, as well as treat for all – consider getting your fam- making the event much more enjoyable. ily out of the house and turn your gathering into a festive retreat.

Many venues have activities for all ages to enjoy, from winter outdoor fun to refreshing spa services.

Host a family talent show – Everyone has a special talent in your family, so encourage them to bring their talent to your gathering. If you’re really ambitious set up an area to be used as a stage and arrange chairs for audience members. Many living rooms have dimmer switches so play with lighting and lamps so the performance area is in the spotlight. You might want to rent a popcorn machine or ask family members to bring along some treats and snacks. By bringing new activities to your family

Create together Creating something as a family can mark an important time in your family history. It captures the age and ability of your children, your interests and a point in time.

By working together on a project your family can develop new skills, collaborate on something truly memorable and enjoy what each family member brings to the endeavor.

Think about all the things a family could create together – a family album complete with stories, mementos and funny or poignant memories.

Your family might be old enough to handle something more ambitious like building a dog house or designing and painting a family recreation area in your home.

Searching online will uncover an astounding number of crafts and projects you could tackle as a family. It can be as simple as building and flying a kite. Or you

may look for something you can recycle or re-purpose into a creative new item – whether a work of art or function. It’s bound to make your family members proud environment stewards as well as treasuring your time and project as a family.

SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 91 (Nechako Lakes)

Enjoy Family Day Monday, February 9th 2015