Barriere Star Journal, December 31, 2015

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2015

Volume 41, Issue 53

www.starjournal.net

$1.40 Includes GST

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2014 CCNA

Hydro, ICBC, MSP fees up in 2016 ..... page 3

Immigration slows B.C. population growth

Salvaging freight at Exlou

..... page 7

Workers salvage the cargo from the wreckage of a tractor trailer unit that went off Highway 5 on its side into the north bound ditch at Exlou just after midnight on Dec. 24. The highway was reduced to single lane traffic only throughout most of the day while the freight was reloaded and removed. Highway conditions at the time of the accident were reported to be less than ideal.

One guilty, one acquitted in moose-hunting incident

Community joining together to help local who lost home to fire

..... page 12

North Thompson Star/Journal

..... page 19

Christmas lights in Barriere

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STAR/JOURNAL photo: Bob Hayward

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When fire totally destroyed a trailer in Barriere trailer park on Dec. 20, it left the owner without a roof over his head or a home to call his own.

Gille Seguin was not home at the time of the fire (reportedly caused by a wood stove), which not only took his trailer but all the tools of his trade as well. Seguin had no insurance.

Friends of Seguin immediately rallied around him, have provided somewhere for him to stay, and are accepting donations of clothing, furniture and all the items required to put a person’s life back together after such

a devastating loss.

Area resident Bill Fowler has opened an account at Interior Savings in Barriere to accept monetary donations on Seguin’s behalf.

“Anyone can make a donation to the account,” said Fowler, “Just go into the credit union and say its for Gille, they will know what it is about and that I have opened the account.”

Fowlers says Seguin’s friends are working towards raising enough money to be able to get him back to work.

“He is a carpenter and a logger and lost all of his tools and equipment in the fire,” said Fowler, “If we can get him the tools he needs he wants to go back to work.”

Fowler says ideally the group is hoping to be able to raise enough money through benefit concerts, and other fundraisers to be able to put a trailer back onto Seguin’s pad in Riverland Trailer Park.

“There are a lot of costs involved to do that,” said Fowler, “Right now we are dealing with the cleanup of the site, the equipment needed to do this and the bins to transport the debris away. So far a number of people have already stepped up to help.”

Fowler notes that if anyone has items to donate or be picked up, or would like more information on how to help or participate in the upcoming fundraisers they can call Fowler at 250-672-5116.

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

l a u n n 4th A

New Years Eve Bullarama

An annual fundraiser for the North Thompson Agriplex & The Farm Kids Scholarship Fund December 31, 2015 at the North Thompson Agriplex, Barriere, B.C. Bullarama & New Year’s Party (19+): $50 • Bullarama only: $30 • 12 & under (Bullarama only): Free Doors open at 6pm • Bullarama 7pm •New Year’s Eve Dance to follow Tickets available at: The Star/Journal, Barriere Country Feeds, or the Horse Barn (Kamloops) For online tickets go to: http://www.eventbrite.ca and type in: New Years Eve Bullriding

A2 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star/Journal

Accused in estranged B.C. supports COOL repealing wife’s murder is and fair market access for B.C. ordered to stand trial cattle and pork going south Kamloops This Week A Clearwater man accused of murdering his estranged wife before taking his children hostage and becoming involved in an hours-long standoff with police has been ordered to stand trial.

Iain Scott, 43, was charged with first-degree murder after Angila Wilson was found dead in her Clearwater home on April 20, 2014.

Scott’s preliminary inquiry took place earlier this year.

On Dec. 13, Kamloops provincial court Judge Chris Cleaveley said the Crown presented enough evidence to potentially convince a jury of Scott’s guilt, ordering him to stand trial in B.C. Supreme Court.

Scott’s standoff with police began after Clearwater Mounties found the body of Wilson — a 33-year-old nurse who worked at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital — while performing a well-being check at her home.

Scott, who had the couple’s three children, was found at a different home.

After an eight-hour standoff, during which the children were released unharmed, Scott was taken into custody.

He applied for bail earlier this year, but was ordered to remain behind bars.

Scott was due back in court to set a date on Dec. 21.

He remained in custody at the time.

The North Thompson STAR/JOURNAL – Every Thursday Keeps you and your community connected!

A division of

Ministry of Agriculture VICTORIA - B.C. Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick has issued the following statement regarding the repealing of the United States’ Country of Origin Labelling laws: “Throughout this long process, the British Columbian government has stood side by side with B.C. cattlemen and the Canadian government to do our utmost to ensure B.C. food products have fair access to U.S. markets, and that the terms and spirit of all signed trade agreements are adhered to.

“The decision to remove Country of Origin Labelling re-

quirements will once again mean that B.C. and Canadian beef and pork producers have fair access to the U.S. market, and consumers there can enjoy our high-qual-

ity products at fair prices.

“I look forward to continuing to work with B.C.’s food producers to build on our record 2014 performance of $12.3

#UsedHelps

billion in revenue and $3 billion in exports.

Having fair access to markets and improving trade conditions within Canada and internationally are key parts of that.”

North Thompson Star/Journal Thursday, December 31, 2015

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Hydro, ICBC, MSP fees up in 2016

By Tom Fletcher Black Press Medical Services Plan premiums, electricity bills and vehicle insurance rates are up in 2016, reviving criticism of the B.C. government’s constant boast about keeping taxes low.

MSP premiums rise from $144 to $150 as of Jan. 1, for a family of three earning more than $30,000 a year.

For a single person in the same income group, the rate goes from $72 to $75, with lower rates for lower incomes down to $22,000 a year, where premiums drop to zero.

B.C. is now the only province in Canada with a health care fee, and it has risen about 40 per cent since 2010.

Premier Christy Clark has defended the fee as a signal to citizens about the enormous cost of providing health care.

BC Hydro rates

have been politically dictated since Clark and Energy Minister Bill Bennett intervened to cap rate increases in 2013.

Hydro rates jumped six per cent after the 2013 election, and are capped at no more than four per cent for 2015 and 2016, after which Bennett has promised to return rate-setting authority to the independent B.C. Utilities Commission (BCUC).

Insurance Corporation of B.C. basic vehicle insurance went up by 5.5 per cent on Nov. 1, an increase still subject to review by the BCUC. That works out to an increase of $3.70 per month added for the average driver.

ICBC had proposed the maximum 6.7 per cent increase to cover increasing costs of personal injury claims and fraud, but the province gave it permission for a one-time transfer of

2016 regulated postage stamp rates to remain at current levels OTTAWA, Dec 16, 2015 /CNW Telbec/ - Consumer-facing regulated postage stamp rates will not increase in January 2016.

Increases previously announced in July 2015 will not proceed pending a Government of Canada review of Canada Post, as outlined in the mandate letter for the Minister of Public Services and Procurement. As a result, the current rates for Domestic Lettermail, U.S. and International Letter-post items (letters, cards and postcards destined for the United States and other international destinations) and Domestic Registered Mail will remain in effect for 2016.

PermanentTM stamps for Domestic Lettermail items weighing 30 grams or less will remain at the current rate of $0.85 when purchased in a booklet, coil or pane. The price of a single stamp will remain $1.00.

The regulated postage stamp rates impacted by this decision are largely geared to consumers because they apply to regular letters, cards and postcards. Non-regulated rates for items like parcels, direct mail and large-volume mailings of letters will continue to see competitive rate changes take effect in early 2016.

Canada Post estimates the average Canadian household purchases approximately two postage stamps per month while the typical small business purchases fewer than 250 postage stamps per year.

Black Press

ICBC rates are up 5.5 per cent, with the corporation citing increased injury claim costs as part of the reason. $450 million from its optional insurance business to subsidize the basic rate.

In a year-end interview, NDP leader John Horgan stopped short of promising to eliminate MSP premiums, but he called it a “regressive tax” that would be part of a broad review of B.C. taxation fairness if he wins the 2017 election.

The Canadian Tax-

payers’ Federation says people who benefit from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s promised middle-class tax cut will see most of those savings eaten up by provincial and municipal tax increases.

Trudeau vowed to reduce the federal income tax bracket between $45,282 and $90,563 from 22 per cent to 20.5 per

Shuttle BuS

cent, and increase the rate for income over $200,000 from 29 to 33 per cent.

The change would provide up to $2,000 in tax relief for middle-income earners, with dual-income households benefiting most, CTF federal director Aaron Wudrick says.

Municipal taxes are expected to increase across the province in 2016, with local councils preparing to set budgets for the new fiscal year that starts April 1. Port Alberni has proposed a seven per cent increase, and the CTF says it hasn’t found any B.C. municipalities yet that pro-

pose to freeze or lower property tax rates.

With the rapid rise in property prices continuing in parts of the Lower Mainland, the B.C. Assessment Authority sent out 37,000 letters in December, warning single-family homeowners to brace for a big jump in their assessed value.

Work BC Unemployed? Looking for work?

Not sure what to do? We can Help Its now easier than ever to get the training and support you need to find and keep a job in B.C.

Clearwater & Little Fort to

Bullarama in Barriere

Pick up at 5pm at Brookfield Mall & will stop at Jim’s Store in Little Fort. Return from Barriere 10-10:30 before dance starts.

Tickets must be purchased by 1pm Dec. 31 $12 each available at the Times Office

Bullarama Tickets also available at the Times office

Visit the Barriere Employment Service Centre for more information on

• Job Search Resources • Personal Employment Planning • Workshops and Training • Specialized services For more information contact: Barriere Employment Service Centre 4629 Barriere Town Road (250) 672-0036

$30 Bullarama only $50 Bullarama & Dance Children 10 and under free

Shuttle Tickets $10

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

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Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star/Journal

OPINION Editorial;

Published by Black Press Ltd. at Unit 10 - 4353 Connor Road, Barriere, B.C., V0E 1E0 250-672-5611

By Ken Alexander / Black Press

No penalties for gifts, inheritances The B.C. Liberal government has made an important move to make the financial lives of some disabled individuals easier.

Last month, Social Development Minister Michelle Stilwell announced that starting this month an individual with the Persons With Disabilities designation will be able to receive financial gifts and inheritances of up to $100,000 without affecting their monthly payments.

The former lifetime gift and inheritance limit was $5,000 per person, after which assistance payments were clawed back from their monthly payments.

A couple – both with Persons With Disabilities (PWD) designation – will now be able to receive $200,000 without losing eligibility for assistance.

The previous level was $10,000.

Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett said she is proud of her government’s move, as the new levels for financial gifts and inheritances make a lot more sense now.

She noted the new policies mean PWD designated people’s pensions can’t be touched and that way they can have gift and inheritance money without being penalized.

In the case of an inheritance, Stilwell said the higher asset limits will free up many clients from having to set aside that money in a trust.

The government is also changing the way trust payments are handled, giving people receiving disability assistance greater flexibility in how they use that money to lead more independent lives.

Furthermore, the $8,000 annual cap on trust payments has been eliminated.

According to Social Development minister, the new policy changes affect 96,000 people in British Columbia who receive disability assistance.

So, this is good news for people with disabilities, but they have to receive a financial gift or an inheritance to take advantage of the new changes.

However, life can definitely be a struggle for folks with disabilities.

They go through life with ongoing day-to-day issues that non-disabled individuals don’t have to deal with or even think about.

On top of that, it can be a financial struggle for people with disabilities.

Too many are struggling with the current monthly assistance payments, which are leaving people with disabilities close to the poverty line.

Some folks will get out of that predicament because they will be able to keep more of the money from financial gifts without losing their monthly payments.

The province previously raised the earned income exemption, so people can earn up to $9,600 a year without reduction of their disability assistance.

While that helps the financial situation for some people with disabilities, they still have to find jobs to take advantage of the additional income.

It’s a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done.

Ken Alexander is editor of the 100 Mile House Free Press

North Americans cannot have all that we expect To the editor; People continue to argue for cheaper fuel prices at the pump, yet this works inversely to the goals of lessening climate change by reducing greenhouse gases. A U.S. government report due out soon is expected to indicate that surging demand for trucks and SUVs fueled by cheap gasoline is holding back improvements in U.S. fuel economy and greenhouse-gas emissions.

This from the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world.

No matter what the global leaders decide, it will always come down to individual consumers

to reduce emissions. That will mean reducing our freedom to make purchases and have a lifestyle to which we have become accustomed and, instead, living more constrained and simpler lives.

But, how do you impose less freedom onto a population in North America that is used to such a high level of comfort?

And, how do we tell the rest of the world it cannot have all of these things we take for granted here in Canada and the U.S.?

That is the climate-change conundrum.

Perry Grunenberg Kamloops, B.C.

The North Thompson Star/Journal is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. Directors oversee the mediation of complaints, with input from both the newspaper and the complaint holder. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, P.O. Box 1356, Ladysmith, B.C., V9G 1A9. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org.

CMCA AUDITED

Al Kirkwood Publisher

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

Jill Hayward Editor

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Carrier delivery $60.00 plus GST Postal delivery $65.00 plus GST The North Thompson Star/Journal is published each Thursday by Cariboo Press (1969) Ltd. in Barriere, B.C. We welcome readers’ articles, photographs, comments and letters. All contents are copyright and any reproduction is strictly prohibited by the rightsholder.

North Thompson Star/Journal Thursday, December 31, 2015

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Misinformation surrounds refugees

Waiting to see Santa

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Jill Hayward

Zander, Lexi and Hunter Janzen wait patiently for their turn to visit with Santa Claus at the Success

By Six Breakfast With Santa event held at the Lions Hall in Barriere Dec. 12.

Passages of 2015: Bill Bennett The death of former B.C. premier Bill Bennett on Dec. 4 prompted the traditional round of polite tributes.

He was the man from Kelowna who remade Vancouver, with SkyTrain, BC Place stadium and Expo 86 to put the city on the world map. He won three majority governments before handing over the steering wheel of a smoothly running Social Credit Party to Bill Vander Zalm.

Outside B.C., the wire service obituaries ran to a few paragraphs, defining Bennett first as the “architect of financial restraint in the province.”

It seems an ordinary notion today, but when Bennett unleashed his “restraint program” on the B.C. government in 1983, it was presented as a right-wing coup on a socialist utopia.

I was in journalism school in Vancouver when unions organized a general strike and mass street demonstrations under the banner of Operation Solidarity, appropriated from the struggle against Poland’s communist dictators.

Their goal was to bring the recently reelected government to its knees.

The newly tabloid

BC BRIEFS VIEWS BC

with

Tom Fletcher Vancouver Province, itself largely controlled by some of B.C.’s most militant unions, was a screeching banshee of the big-labour left.

“Socred hitmen swoop on rights workers,” its front page declared after 400 layoff notices were issued to provincial staff. This propaganda was the public’s guide and my professional role model.

A bit of background: the B.C. economy was in the grip of an international recession, hitting resource industries and government revenues hard.

Bennett had ousted the Dave Barrett NDP government in 1975, but the legacy lived on. During its threeyear reign, for example, education spending increased 13 per cent in the first year and 23 per cent in each of the next two.

The blitz of restraint legislation reasserted government’s

authority to control the size and wages of provincial staff, reinstated the province’s ability to pay, eliminated various boards, and increased the provincial sales tax to seven per cent to pay the bills.

Another Bill Bennett legacy was dismantling the monopoly chokehold of big international unions on public heavy construction.

Growing up in northeastern B.C., I had seen the impressive pay for jobs on highway construction, about twice what I earned labouring for a non-union contractor doing city work.

A couple of friends discovered the inside track to securing labouring jobs on a provincially-funded highway project. After joining the union, those in the know could visit a business agent and hand over $500 cash.

Within days, the lucky winner would be “name requested” to join the crew, vaulting over those who thought paying dues and working their way up the seniority list would be enough.

This struggle over public construction continues today, with BC Hydro’s decision to make the Site C dam an open shop.

The main contract was awarded to a consortium working with the Christian Labour Association of Canada, an alternative union known by more colourful names among old-line building trades.

After graduating from journalism school, I landed my first full-time job as a reporter for the Kelowna Capital News, shortly before Bennett announced his retirement from the premier’s office to finish his term as a backbench MLA. Bennett and I would sometimes arrive for work together, parking our rusty 1976 Chevrolets on Bernard Avenue, where he kept an office above the family furniture store.

I found out later that Bennett’s modest old sedan was the government-issue car he had used during his entire 10 years as premier.

The party bought it for him as a humourous retirement gift, and he continued to drive it to work. No frills. That was Bill Bennett.

Tom Fletcher is legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press. Email: tfletcher@blackpress. ca Twitter: @tomfletcherbc

To the editor; While many Canadians, including First Nations people, are welcoming Syrian and other refugees to Canada, a few are busy spreading fear and hatred, often through distortions and misinformation. Here are four examples of unfounded claims circulating on social media and news comments: 1) There’s a “rape epidemic” in northern Europe, and Muslim men are the perpetrators.

One source of this myth is a video that claims, “Muslims are two per cent of Sweden’s population but they are responsible for almost all rapes”.

This was produced by Alex Jones, an American conspiracy theorist whose “infowars” website disseminates strange, extremist content. A similar US source, the “Daily Caller”, says, “A 1996 Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention report ... noted that Muslim immigrants from North Africa were 23 times more likely to commit rape than Swedish men. It is no wonder why today Sweden is deemed the rape capital of the Western world.”

I wrote to the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention (Brottsförebyggande rådet - Brå), which is an agency under the Ministry of Justice. Klara Hradilova Selin told me on their behalf that although they did publish a report on immigrants and crime in 1996, “when it comes to the conclusions on Sweden as the worlds ‘rape capital’, it is, of course totally incorrect.”

2) The Canadian government is not screening refugees diligently, so we are vulnerable to jihadists and terrorists entering our country. ...continued on page 6....

Find more ‘Letters to the Editor’ on page 6...

H

Baby!

Babies of 2015

In our January 14th edition, the Star/Journal will celebrate babIeS born In 2015

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

Submit the following information along with a clear photo

only

$27.

99

+ tax

• name • Phone • baby’s First name • baby’s Middle name • baby’s Last name • Date of birth • Parents First & Last names Deadline for your entry is Jan. 8th, 2016 • phone 250 672-5611 or drop in at 10-4353 Conner road

Bring on the Babies!

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Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star/Journal

Interior Health year in review: From Board Chair Erwin Malzer

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Jill Hayward

Aerial battle Two ravens duke it out in the skies over Barriere on an overcast day early last week. The pair continued their aerial battle for approximately five minutes before one conceded defeat and retreated.

Continued from page 5...

Misinformation surrounds refugees All refugees must go through a front-end security screening by CSIS. 3) Muslim immigrants will force Sharia law on Canadians.

This message spreads via Facebook memes such as one titled, “The definition of insane stupidity” which shows a photo of shouting women wearing hijabs. It originates from a Florida man who thinks President Obama is Muslim, and can also be found on at least one Nazi, white supremacist site. The far-right “Britain First” disseminates similar anti-immigrant material from its Facebook page.

4) Prime Minister Wilfred Laurier opposed any immigrants who would proselytise instead of assimilating, and said, “We won’t accept anyone ... who will impose his religions or his customs on us.”

The source of this lie is a Facebook meme with an edited quote from US President Theodore Roosevelt that is falsely attributed to Laurier.

Bill Horne Wells, B.C.

C

apsule

C

omments

with MICHELLE LEINS

When measuring cholesterol levels, doctors often calculate a “risk ratio” when interpreting results of your cholesterol tests. This is simply a ratio of the total cholesterol (TC) to the HDL cholesterol (i.e. TC divided by HDL). Ratios of less than 3.5 are thought to put one at a lower risk for coronary heart disease.

People that are truly allergic to gluten have celiac’s disease. A component of gluten, called gliadin is what causes the main problem. Researchers in Alberta are working on a supplement which will bind with gluten in the stomach and prevent the symptoms of celiac disease. The hope is that the product will be available in about three years after further testing is done.

With so many smartphones cameras in pockets or purses today, it is very easy to snap a picture of a medical condition like a rash or mole. Even a short movie can be taken then shown to your doctor, particularly if the problem comes and goes. It’s a good example how taking a “selfie” can be of benefit to your health.

If losing weight is on your list of resolutions for the new year, think of this: even a five to 10 per cent loss in weight will result in health benefits. The secret to weight loss is to lose it slowly and steadily and to maintain the lifestyle you followed to lose it in the first place.

Good communication between healthcare professionals and patients is important for your better health. Talk to us regarding your medication concerns.

PHARMASAVE Monday - Saturday 9 AM - 6 PM Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM

201-365 Murtle Cres, Clearwater, B.C.

250-674-0058

As I mark my first anniversary as Board Chair of Interior Health, I’m looking back on the highlights and challenges of 2015. From wildfires that blazed through much of our region, to major investments in surgical care, and a change in leadership within our organization, it has been quite a year.

We saw the departure of Dr. Robert Halpenny as President and CEO and in October, we announced his successor, Chris Mazurkewich. Prior to working with Alberta Health Services, Chris was Chief Operating Officer, Strategic & Corporate Services at Interior Health. It is great to have him back.

In September, we welcomed the first patients to the new Interior Heart & Surgical Centre.

Located in Kelowna, this stateof-the-art facility now delivers the highest level of surgical care ever seen in the Interior. We are thrilled to offer this calibre of health care to residents from every corner of our region.

With less than a year to go before the opening of the Clinical Services Building in Kamloops, a business plan is under development for a new patient care tower, the next phase of redevelopment at Royal Inland Hospital.

Planning is also underway in Merritt for the redevelopment of the Emergency Department at Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Centre.

In Ashcroft, a new temporary bus service is taking area patients to medical appointments in Lillooet with the physicians who will relocate to

Interior Health photo

Interior Health Board Chairman Erwin Malzer Ashcroft in the New Year upon completion of their Practice Ready Assessments.

An innovative outreach program is helping patients in the Cariboo access urology care closer to home. Urologists from Royal Inland Hospital now travel to 100 Mile District General Hospital to provide urology services for patients there.

A significant milestone was reached this year when our Board approved the Letter of Understanding with the Ulkatcho First Nation, the last of eight health agreements that create a strong partnership to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal people.

We continue to develop new ways to use telehealth to help patients living outside of major urban centres. For example, a service introduced this year will help families in the Cariboo and Chilcotin region whose babies may have hearing loss, stay closer to home for testing by linking an audiometric technician in Williams Lake with an

audiologist at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver.

Our work to expand access to HIV testing and treatment has led to significant increases in screening for the disease.

Since 2013, HIV testing in the region has increased by 50 per cent. Screening is a critical step in controlling and eventually ending the AIDS epidemic.

Throughout the year I really enjoyed meeting staff, physicians, volunteers, and our elected officials. We managed to cover a lot of territory including Barriere, Chase, Clearwater, Kamloops, and Salmon Arm. These visits are a priority for myself and the CEO, and over the coming year we will visit other communities in the region.

There is much to celebrate, but we also have much to accomplish. In an effort to decrease demand on hospital and residential services, we are shifting our focus to integrated primary and community care, embracing new approaches that not only benefit our patients but also the health-care system.

At Interior Health, every person matters and I am extremely proud of the staff, physicians and volunteers who demonstrate this philosophy every day in their dedication to quality health care. Our current board is exceptionally engaged and, for the first time, has a majority of women serving and chairing half of the board committees. I am confident that the next year will bring plenty of change for the better.

Concerned Professional Engineers voice concerns about terminals for Northern Gateway and Transmountain To the editor; The Concerned Professional Engineers (CPE) are a group of registered Professional Engineers with significant experience in the design, construction, and operation of bulk export marine terminals in Canada and around the world.

As professional engineers, we understand that Canada’s oil industry requires an export route through Canada’s Pacific Coast in order to transport its valuable product to global markets.

However, we also understand that these megaprojects – pipelines, terminals, and tanker shipping routes – pose significant risks to the safety of Canadians and to our natural environment.

In our opinion, a strong, independent, sciencebased review and oversight process is required to ensure the success of these projects while risks are kept at a minimum.

We believe that the National Energy Board (NEB) has failed in its responsibility to implement such a process, particularly for the En-

bridge Northern Gateway and Kinder Morgan Transmountain projects. As intervenors in the review of the first project and as commenters for the second, we witnessed firsthand the flaws in the NEB’s process. We are alarmed at the number of critical issues still left unaddressed.

Below is a brief summary of our concerns: The proponents’ own risk analyses state that there is a 10 per cent probability in the 50-year lifetime of either project, of a marine spill greater than 5,000 cubic meters (for Northern Gateway) or 8,250 cubic meters (for Transmountain). As a comparison, the April 2015 MV Marathassa spill into Vancouver’s English Bay was estimated to be 2.7 cubic meters.

The product that will be transported, diluted bitumen, is substantially different from crude oil. Very little is known about how it will behave when spilled into a marine environment. Environment Canada’s own scientists have repeatedly ...continued on next page

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Immigration slows B.C. population growth Black Press B.C.’s population reached 4.7 million by Oct. 1, a gain of less than one per cent from the same time last year.

The province’s population growth rate was down to 0.8 per cent by the third quarter of 2015, Central 1 Credit Union reports in its latest B.C. Economic Briefing.

Net international migration was the main reason for the slowdown, with 11,100 international arrivals during what is usually the highest period of the year for immigration gains.

Within Canada, interprovincial migration climbed to nearly 5,000 in the third quarter of 2015, as people returned home to a relatively buoyant B.C. economy from provinces hit by slumping oil prices, notably Alberta, Saskatchewan and Newfoundland.

While permanent international resident arrivals were slower, international tourism demand climbed to more than 400,000 people by October, due mainly to U.S. visitors taking advantage of a lower Canadian dollar.

Site C dam contract commits $1.75 billion BC Hydro has signed its main civil works contract for the Site C dam on the Peace River, for an eight-year project expected to cost $1.75 billion and generate 8,000 person-years of employment.

The contract is with Peace River Hydro Partners, made up of Petrowest Corp. of Calgary, ACCIONA Infrastruc-

Retirements and a relatively strong economy have increased B.C.’s net migration from other provinces in recent years, but international immigration has slowed down. ture Canada, a division of a Spanish construction firm, and Samsung C&T Canada Ltd., a division of the Korean engineering and electronics company.

The contract covers construction of the earth-fill dam, two diversion tunnels and a concrete foundation for the generating station and spillways. Site preparation work is underway for the third dam on the Peace River near Fort St. John, and a work camp capable of hosting up to 1,500 workers is under construction.

NDP leader John Horgan and B.C. Federation of Labour president Irene Lanzinger both denounced the lack of job guarantees for B.C. workers in the contract.

BC Hydro says three quarters of the workers currently on the site are from B.C.

BC Ferries, union reach five-year deal BC Ferries and the BC Ferry and Marine Workers’ Union have ratified a fiveyear agreement that provides for wage increases of 8.55 per cent by its expiry in October 2020.

BC Ferries CEO Mike Corrigan described the wage and benefit provisions of the new contract as “fair and modest,” noting that the latest agreement means the coastal ferry service will have gone 17 years without a labour dispute affecting its operations.

The agreement, ratified by members after it was endorsed by the union executive in October, provides average pay increases of 1.71 per cent per year.

There are about 3,500 union members working for BC Ferries.

CPE voice concerns... Continued from page 6.. questioned whether it can be cleaned up effectively at all.

Finally, we are concerned that the funding structure currently in place to pay for a spill is woefully inadequate and Canadian taxpayers are exposed to these risky projects. In contrast, the marine shipping industry is structured to limit its liability to the greatest possible extent.

Our recommendations are that alternate locations for the marine terminals must be seriously considered for both Northern Gateway and Transmountain.

For Northern Gateway, moving the terminal from Kitimat to Prince Rupert or preferably to Port Simpson would eliminate the need for supertankers to navigate 220 km of narrow fjords in the pristine Great Bear Rainforest, a waterway that will be shared every year by several hundred liquefied natural gas tankers.

For Transmountain, moving the terminal from the confined Burrard inlet to Roberts

Bank, where there is already a coal superport and a container terminal, would provide a clearer route to the open ocean and allow for larger vessels to be used, significantly cutting the number of vessels travelling.

These alternatives have been proposed to the NEB, Enbridge, and Kinder Morgan many times, and each time have been disregarded without a thorough review or response. We recently put in a request to Prime Minister Trudeau to take a look at how the NEB reviews these megaprojects in hopes that information can be made available to the public.

Canada is uniquely situated to take advantage of its tremendous endowment of petroleum resources while ensuring the preservation of its environment for all Canadians, now and in the future. We hope that the new government will consider our proposals.

Brian Gunn Concerned Professional Engineers

The North Thompson STAR/JOURNAL – keeping you connected!

Submitted photo:

Nikki’s Red Wagon Interior Savings Insurance once again has collected dry goods and Christmas gifts under the Nikki’s Red Wagon banner for the Barriere Food Bank. Pictured is food bank rep Antoon Houben gathering the items for Christmas hampers Dec. 17.

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Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star/Journal

It’s not too late to get a flu shot Submitted

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Jill Hayward

Smile in the snow With a good 15 centimeters of snow on the windshield of a vehicle early Sunday morning an artistic passerby just couldn’t resist putting a smile in the snow. The large dump of snow came overnight and continued through much of the day with accumulations of 15 centimeters in some areas.

Long range forecasts called for cool and sunny from Wednesday on.

Highlights from TNRD Dec. 10 Board Meeting North Thompson Star/Journal Here are some highlights from the Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) Board of Directors’ Meeting of Dec. 10.

2016 Chair and Vice-Chair Elected John Ranta of Cache Creek was acclaimed to the position of Board Chair and Ronaye Elliott of Area “J” (Copper Desert Country) was elected to the position of Vice-Chair for 2016.

Granted Approved for Art Exposed Kathy Sinclair of the Kamloops Arts Council (KAC) provided a presentation to the Board about the Art Exposed project, which showcases non-juried pieces from artists throughout the region. The event takes place March 11 to 19, 2016. The KAC was looking for funding support, and the TNRD Board resolved to provide $5,000 towards the event.

Letter of Support for Gold Country Communities Society A letter will be sent from the TNRD Board to the Gold Country Community Society supporting its funding application to Northern Development Initiative Trust’s “Fabulous Festivals and Events” program for a grant of up to $2,500. The money will support the Gold Country Digital Sign project from the Cariboo-Chilcotin Lillooet Regional Development Account.

2016 Public Consultation and Communications Activities A total of 66 public consultation and communications activities were conducted by the TNRD in 2015. Public consultation was conducted through activities like public meetings and surveys. Communications activities included items such as Utility Systems newsletters, public information sessions, and education booths at community events.

2016 Summary Report Regarding Use of Discretionary Funds A report was provided to the Board, grouped by Electoral Areas, detailing what projects were funded by discretionary funds in 2015. More than $48,130 of discretionary funds were spent on projects such as fencing for a train-whistle cessation project; Raise-A-Reader campaigns; a geoparks study; and to support farmers market activities, among a variety of other projects.

Funding Provided for Upgrades to the Community Water Systems Up to $16,000 in Federal Gas Tax – Community Works Fund revenues allocated to Area “A” (Wells Gray Country) was approved to fund a wetwell upgrade, and to replace pumps, leaking valves and service lines for the Vavenby Community Water System.

Up to $30,000 in Gas Tax Funding from Area “P” (Rivers and the Peaks) was approved to fund LED lighting upgrades and replacement of leaking valves and service lines for the Pritchard Community Water System.

The next TNRD regular Board Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 21, at 1:15 p.m.

STAR/JOURNAL print subscribers will find complete eEditions of each issue, as well as all weekly supplements on our website.

Call the STAR/JOURNAL office to get your access number. 250-672-5611

Interior Health is reminding the public that it is not too late to get your flu shot.

Influenza symptoms often include sudden high fever, headache, general body aches and pains, fatigue and weakness, a runny, stuffy nose, sneezing, and sore throat. In some cases, influenza can lead to more severe illness such as pneumonia and even death.

“The flu shot is the safest and most effective way to prevent influenza,” said Dr. Kamran Golmohammadi, Medical Health Officer with Interior Health. “Getting a flu shot helps protect you from influenza and it also helps prevent you from spreading it to family, friends, and those who may be more vulnerable to serious complications from influenza.”

The flu shot is still available at pharmacies, physician offices and through local public health centres. To find a flu shot provider near you visit Immunize BC’s Flu Clinic locator (http://immunizebc.ca/clinics/ flu#8/49.246/-123.116 ).

“I encourage everyone to get their flu shot as soon as possible, especially those in high risk groups.

Protection from influenza generally begins 10 to 14 days after immunization.

Getting a flu shot now will protect you and your family over the holiday season and

into the New Year”, adds Dr. Golmohammadi.

The flu shot is free for: • Seniors over 65 years of age • Children six months to 59 months of age • Aboriginal people • Pregnant women • People with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, asthma, and diabetes • People who live with or care for people in high-risk groups • Visitors to a health care facility For a complete list of those at risk and eligible for a free flu shot visit the Interior Health website (https://www.interiorhealth. ca/YourHealth/Immunization/SeasonalFluCampaign/Pages/default.aspx).

In addition to getting a flu shot, Dr. Golmohammadi stresses that proper hand washing and covering noses and mouths when coughing or sneezing are also important ways to prevent the spread of influenza and many other infections.

He advises that people experiencing influenza symptoms should stay home from work, school and holiday gatherings to reduce the risk of spreading infection to others.

In B.C., the majority of influenza cases occur between December to April, with the peak of activity typically occurring in January.

Liberals take step backwards on financial transparency: McLeod Office of M.P. Cathy McLeod OTTAWA – The federal Liberal government has abandoned transparency when it comes to financial matters for First Nations, according to Official Opposition Indigenous Affairs Critic Cathy McLeod.

“Today’s decision by Minister Bennett to cease all discretionary compliance measures regarding the First Nations Financial Transparency Act is a step backwards for transparency for all Canadians,” McLeod said on Dec. 18. “The government is functionally abandoning the First Nations Transparency Act without repealing it. This is a sad day for those First Nations community members who called for enhanced financial accountability and transparency.”

McLeod said the FNFTA represents real progress in ensuring that First Nations leadership worked in the best interests of their communi-

Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for KamloopsThompson-Cariboo and Official Opposition Indigenous Affairs Critic ties, and that the Act should remain in place.

“The Act ensures community members have access to basic financial information such as audited financial statements, and the salaries and expenses of chief and council. Now with no compliance measures in effect, it’s a safe prediction that the

compliance rate will collapse, and financial information will again be shrouded in secrecy from community members,” said McLeod.

“Our Conservative government supported this legislation because it is based on the premise that all Canadians deserve accountability and transparency from their leadership,” said McLeod. “First Nations governments operating under the Indian Act had been the only level of government in Canada that was not obligated to make basic financial information public.”

McLeod pointed out that withdrawing enforcement of the Act is being done without the benefit of a parliamentary debate. “For all practical purposes, this is a repeal of the Act, being carried out without actually bothering to give Members of Parliament any chance to debate it,” said McLeod. “It is ironic that a law about transparency is being gutted in such a nontransparent way.”

North Thompson Star/Journal Thursday, December 31, 2015

www.starjournal.net A9

Virus attacks the District of Clearwater

By Keith McNeill The Times District of Clearwater is moving forward the replacement of its computers and hiring a new information technology services company after the municipality’s computer network became infected with a virus.

According to a report from director of finance Wes Renaud to town council’s finance and audit committee, the District’s network was infected by the virus in February, 2015.

The virus is a ransom-ware trojan that targets computers running Microsoft Windows.

Once the computer becomes infected, the virus displays a message offering to have itself removed if a ransom is paid.

As a result of the District’s computers becoming infected, BDO, the District’s auditors, stated in a letter, “The virus exposed certain vulnerabilities in the IT (information technology) system and consulting, including that backups were not being adequately maintained and tested. Furthermore, the District’s IT consultant recom-

mended that the District engage with the perpetrator of the virus, which introduces further risk to the District.”

Most of District of Clearwater’s computers are sluggish, a varied in makes and models, and are well beyond their warranty period, Renaud noted in his report.

Computers in satellite locations, such as the firehall, Sportsplex and former District office, are not on the same network.

Sea to Sky Network Solutions, IT consultants hired following the virus attack, recommended that a redundant server be set up that would back up all dat on the main server every hour and store the data at an offsite location in Vancouver.

Other recommendations included a new Dell main server with a five-year warranty, new Dell workstations also with five-year warranties, and new network equipment (including firewalls and wireless equipment for the office).

During its meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 15, town council approved awarding a $65,000 IT service contract to Sea to Sky of Vancouver.

How to stay safe while shoveling this winter News Canada Whether we love or hate snow, shoveling is a reality of winter life in Canada.

Clearing sidewalks is important for the safety of pedestrians, but the activity can prove hazardous for those unaccustomed to heavy lifting. Take into consideration the following tips as the snow starts to fall.

1. Always talk to your doctor about your health status be-

fore the winter season to ensure you are fit enough for the task.

2. Warm up first with a walk or light stretching, this will also help you get accustomed to the cool temperatures outside.

3. Don’t be afraid to take lots of breaks. Drink plenty of water before and after and pay attention to your core temperature – you don’t want to get too hot or too cold.

4. Dress for the part. Layering from head to toe is always a

good option. Look for items like the hoodies and anti-slip winter boots from to ensure you stay warm and have good footing.

5. Always bend from your knees and not your back. Conserve your energy and think about pushing the snow to the edges instead of trying to lift it.

6. Be a good neighbour. If someone on your street isn’t capable of shoveling their sidewalk, consider taking on the task and giving them a hand.

Dealing with credit card shock News Canada It’s easy to lose control of your spending during the holidays. But you don’t have to feel a shock when you open your credit card bills.

Here are some money management tips to keep your credit card bill in check: • If you carry a balance on your credit card, pay as much as you can and as soon as you can since interest is charged daily.

Try to pay more than the minimum payment.

Credit card interest rates can quickly eat up any savings from a discount price on a big-ticket purchase.

The Government of Canada’s credit card payment calculator at ItPaysToKnow.gc.ca will show you how long it will take to pay off your credit card balance if you only make the minimum payment each month.

• Set a budget for gift spending before

you start shopping— a budget for each person on your list as well as a total limit for all gifts, and stick to your budget.

• Don’t take cash advances on your credit card, as you will be charged interest immediately.

• Allow enough time for payments to reach your credit card company.

If you don’t, you may end up making a late payment, which could mean paying more interest. It could also negatively affect your credit rat-

ing.

• When your statement arrives, check it carefully.

Report any unauthorized transactions immediately.

This is especially important during this time of year since credit card fraud often occurs during the holiday season.

• If you can’t pay off your entire balance by the due date, pay as much as you can.

More information is available online at ItPaysToKnow. gc.ca.

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Jill Hayward

Turkey comes for dinner This wild turkey tom was photographed actually tapping on the door of

a Louis Creek house on a snowy Christmas morning. Fortunately for the turkey he was not invited in!

Make your New Year resolution one that involves forming a bond of mutual respect and companionship between you and your dog that will last a lifetime!

Dog Obedience Classes Learn to teach your dog good manners and acceptable behaviour in all situations.

Next class starts Sunday, Jan. 24, at the Fall Fair Hall in Barriere Six week courses for Basic and Novice Obedience for dogs age 6 months and older. Cost $110

Call Jill Hayward 250-319-8023

A10 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star/Journal

Christmas party brings Hawaii to Little Fort North Thompson Star/Journal

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Jill Hayward

On Dec. 15, the staff from Jim’s Food Market in Little Fort held their annual Christmas party, and this year the theme was ‘Hawaiian’.

The event was at the High Five Diner, who presented a meal with a total of eleven different dishes for the party-goers, who all agreed the food was “fantastic”.

Many of the partygoers arrived at the diner suitably attired in Hawaiian shirts or grass skirts, with one group arriving dressed as tropical island cannibals.

Everyone was greeted as they arrived and given a lei to wear.

The party included trivia questions about Hawaii and prizes were handed out to the first person to answer each question correctly.

All in all, everyone agreed the party was “a lot of fun and tons of great food”.

(Above) Tropical island cannibals who attended the Jim’s Food Market staff Christmas party stated, “We brought our own meat in case they ran out”.

(L-r) Antoon, Wim and Margaret Houben, and Sylvia Boyd.

(Right) Margaret Houben looking the part, while sister Sylvia commented that cannibal outfits were much easier than grass skirts.

Submitted photos:

All dressed up in snow The recent snow falls have dressed the valley in a blanket of white. This young evergreen makes for a striking photograph.

Truck Load Sale!!

SPF Pellet $210 Fir $260 Taxes In

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Turning tin cans into lanterns Grade 5 students, Doug Hyslop and Danika Zerr, making lanterns from recycled tin cans at Barriere Elementary School Dec. 17.

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Elli Kohnert

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STAR/JOURNAL print subscribers will find more community news, views, photographs, complete eEditions of each issue, and weekly supplements on our website.

Call our office to get your access number – 250-672-5611

North Thompson Star/Journal Thursday, December 31, 2015

www.starjournal.net A11

Winter fun at Elementary Winter Fun Night at Barriere Elementary School on Dec. 17. The evening began with a chili dinner fundraiser hosted by the grade 7 class; students and parents were then able to visit four different rooms within the school where they could make Christmas cards. The primary students then performed some Christmas songs in the gymnasium.

(Left) Racheal Veitch and Destiny Baker making Christmas cards during the Winter Fun Night

Photos: Ashley Salle

(Bottom left) Primary students singing Christmas songs in the gymasium during the event.

STAR/JOURNAL photo: Elli Kohnert

Frosty and friend Jolly snowmen light up the lawn of a Barriere home.

Movie filmed in TNRD now on DVD

A film set in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) is now available on DVD. Shana: The Wolf ’s Music, which was shot primarily in the TNRD, is now available for purchase. It can be found online at shanafilm. ca.

A Swiss-Canadian production, the movie was directed by Nino Jacusso from Switzerland and involves leading cast members from the Scw’exmx branch of the N’laka’pamux First Nations, which includes the Shulus (Lower Nicola Indian Band), Nooaitch, Shackan and Ntsla’tko (Coldwater) First Nations.

The film also features cast members from Merritt and other TNRD communities.

Shana: The Wolf ’s Music has been screened in 28 countries, including more than 15 theatres in Switzerland and across North America.

It has been featured at more than 66 festivals worldwide, garnering 25 awards.

Nate would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and happy new year from the Kirkwood family

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

Thank You.

Al Theresa� Allison Eric� Amy Jeremy and Nate

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Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star/Journal

SPORTS One guilty, one acquitted in moose-hunting incident

By Cam Fortems Kamloops This Week

THE TIMES photo:

Broads on Boards teaches skiing skills Penny Harper practices snowplowing while Sue Ward and Yevonne Cline watch. Six ladies took part in a program put on by Wells Gray Outdoor Club last weekend to teach basic cross-country skiing skills to women.

Broads on Boards instructor was Charlotte Smith.

Calling shooting of a bull moose “brazen,” a provincial court judge Thursday found one of two men guilty of illegally killing and abandoning the animal.

Xin Xiao was found guilty after trial of illegal hunting out of season, possession of an animal and abandoning the bull moose at the side of a logging road in the Nicola Valley in October 2013.

He was fined about $8,500, with $4,000 of that going to the provincial Habitat Conservation Trust Fund.

“I don’t believe a third party killed the moose and Mr. Xiao came upon the moose and decided to take it,” judge Chris Cleaveley said in his decision.

Cleaveley ruled Xiao said “yeah” to another hunter when asked him if he killed the bull moose.

That hunter, Kyle Carusi, testified at the trial.

Both Xiao, represented by defence lawyer Kevin Walker, and co-accused Wei Li, defended

by Fred Kaatz, used an interpreter during the trial and did not testify themselves.

Cleaveley found the Crown did not have enough evidence to convict Li of the same three offences, nor of hunting without a special licence needed for a non-resident.

The Crown’s case was built on circumstantial evidence.

Two deer hunters who came across a dead bull moose at the side of the road testified when they returned to the same logging road later, they saw two Asian men with a Ford Raptor truck backed up to the moose.

NORTH THOMPSON SPORTSPLEX

Hockey Lives Here!

The Sportsplex will be closed January 1st

Carusi said they appeared to be using a winch to get the moose — not yet field dressed or gutted — into the truck.

A surveillance camera at a gas station in Merritt recorded Xiao and Li the morning before the moose was found.

Food and gas receipts from Merritt the day before were also found inside the Ford pickup.

During trial, Carusi testified the two men beside the moose immediately stopped as he and his father rolled up in their pickup.

Carusi said the two acted “shifty” while beside the moose.

“It’s reasonable to infer Mr. Xiao and the other man realized they’d been caught redhanded,” Cleaveley said.

Conservation officers tracked the Ford pickup to a Vancouver home.

They seized the truck and a trailer.

Xiao, 49, had a “much stronger connection to the Ford Raptor,” Cleaveley said.

Inside that pickup, registered to a woman from Vancouver, they found Xiao’s Canadian passport, as well as a wallet with his driver’s and hunting licence and credit cards.

Conservation officers used DNA to link the moose to blood found on a jacket in the truck.

Cleaveley found it was Xiao’s jacket.

Following the Wildlife Act charges, the civil forfeiture office applied successfully to have the Ford Raptor sold, with half the $48,000 proceeds going to the Crown.

In addition to the approximately $8,500 in fines, Xiao forfeited two guns found in the truck.

He is also prohibited from hunting for two years.

Walker urged Cleaveley to reduce the fine from the $10,000 requested by the Crown because his client, a building property manager who earns about $40,000 to $50,000 a year, has a limited ability to pay.

Xiao rents an apartment in Burnaby he shares with his wife and child.

Program launched for excellence in Aboriginal sport

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Wells Gray Curling Club call 250.674.3768

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Mens Drop In Hockey Fridays @ 7:45pm Oldtimers Hockey will be Sundays @ 7pm & Wednesdays @ 8:35pm

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Friday @ 4:45PM & Sunday @ 4:15PM

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

Nominations are now open for a new awards program celebrating the athletic achievements of aboriginal youth.

The Premier’s Award for Aboriginal Youth Excellence in Sport has been developed by the Aboriginal Sport, Recreation and Physical Activity Parters Council and the Province of British Columbia. Nominees will be scored on athletic achievement, leadership skills, commitment to higher education and for their recognition as community role models on and off the field of play.

The awards are part of Premier Christy Clark’s announcement earlier this year committing to establishing a

program to honour and celebrate the achievements of aboriginal youth in sport.

“To young people, sports are powerful, giving meaning in confusing or even difficult times,” Clark said in a release highlighting the program. “One of the ways we can embrace reconciliation is by recognizing and celebrating aboriginal achievement in sports.”

Athletes will be honoured at the 2016 Gathering Our Voices Conference in March in Victoria. There will be 12 awards given — six male and six female — and recipients will also be asked to attend a special high-skill performance workshop to further their athletic and leadership abilities.

Nomination forms and more information can be found online.

North Thompson Star/Journal Thursday, December 31, 2015

www.starjournal.net A13

Puhallo says Barriere New Year’s Eve Bullarama success is all about the team North Thompson Star/Journal This year will be the fourth annual New Year’s Eve Bullarama and Dance at the North Thompson Agriplex in Barriere.

What started as an idea discussed over coffee has grown to an economic driver for the region; all thanks to Steven Puhallo and Ed Lebourdais, key founders of the Farm Kids Scholarship Fund.

“It’s been a pretty incredible project and we’re proud of having established this bursary for ‘Farm Kids’ in our local school district,” said Puhallo, “Education is the silver bullet for our young people to reach their dreams and be who they want to be.”

Puhallo says that what started out as an idea over coffee became a great way to honour the memory of his Uncle, Mike Puhallo, who was lost due to cancer back in 2011.

“It was something Mike and I had talked about on and off,” he said, “I remember going and visiting him near his end, and spending time with the man who had taught me so much, and had inspired me to do good for the community; I made a promise to do this project for him. So many people came together to make this happen and we got it done.”

Steven Puhallo and his wife Jenn moved back home to Kamloops in 2011 to raise their family.

“I wanted to do something for Mike that would reflect his values and interests,” said Puhallo, “He was so many things to so many people. Most of all he was a cowboy

through and through.

“In talking about that with Ed Lebourdais, who knew my Uncle well, we came up with this event. Ed dove right into it and is a core reason this event is so successful.

The support we received from the Lebourdais family and the Whispering Pines/ Clinton Band was amazing.”

Puhallo says once the decision was made to host a New Year’s Eve Bullarama in Barriere it was pretty nerve wrecking in the first year.

“The North Thompson Agriplex was still under construction, we had no arena steel, and nobody had started a new agri-sport event in the area for a number of years. When I told people we were putting on a professional bullriding and dance in Barriere, in the middle of winter, they told us we were nuts. I love proving naysayers wrong!

“So many people stepped up to the plate and got involved. It was magical and a really touching moment when we saw that lineup of people and cars stretching out at our first event,” said Puhallo, “It felt like that moment at the end of ‘Field of Dreams’. We built it (the event) and people came!”

Puhallo says after three years of the Farm Kids Fund putting on the event as a fundraiser to start their bursary legacy, it is now time to hand the reins over, and that 2015 is the transition year to do just that.

“I’m grateful for everyone who got involved and the solid team that came together for these events,” said Puhallo, “With the bursary up and running, it’s great to hand off the event to the North Thompson Fall Fair folks.

This is a big event for Barriere and creates a lot of economic spin-

off for the area.”

The event will now become a major fundraiser for sustaining and maintaing the North Thompson Agriplex and Fall Fair facility. However, the Fall Fair will be donating a percentage of the profit from the New Year’s Eve event annually to support the Farm Kids Fund bursary program.

Puhallo voiced his thoughts about the Bullarama event and how it has grown.

“I think at the end of the day I’m most proud of the new equipment and indoor arena set-up we helped get for the Agriplex, bringing professional bullriding to the North Thompson Valley, and working with the great people of Barriere in making this event the success it has become.

“I believe it’s all about the team, and the team around this event should be extremely proud of

Submitted photo

(l-r) Farm Kids Fund president and New Year’s Eve Bullarama event manager Steven Puhallo at the 2014 event in the North Thompson Agriplex is pictured with Jeremy Willis announcer and country entertainer, vice-president and arena manager Ed Lebourdais, and key sponsor representative Chief Michael Lebourdais from Whispering Pines / Clinton Indian Band (also the key sponsor for the 2015 Bullarama). what we’ve accomplished!”

Tickets are still available for this year’s Dec. 31 event, which Puhallo says by all appearances will be another sell out.

The Farm Kids Fund will continue as a $200 bursary (each) for a male and female graduating grade 12 student from School District #73 for 2016

and into the future.

The 2015 Farm Kids Fund recipient was Katie Elliott.

Check out: www. farmkidsfund.ca, or on Facebook.

Find out more at: www.fallfair-rodeo. com or Facebook: North Thompson Agriplex, North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association.

Join the Great Backyard Bird Count this February Submitted Give Mother Nature a valentine this year and show how much you care about birds by counting them for the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC).

The 18th annual count is taking place Feb. 13 through 16.

Anyone in the world can count birds at any location for at least 15 minutes on one or more days of the count and enter their sightings at www.BirdCount.org.

The information gathered by tens of thousands of volunteers helps track changes in bird populations on a massive scale. The GBBC is a joint project of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society with partner Bird

Studies Canada.

Bird watchers fell in love with the magnificent Snowy Owl during the last count when the birds were reported in unprecedented numbers across southeastern Canada, the Great Lakes states, the Northeast, and down the Atlantic Coast. Expect Snowy Owls to show up in higher numbers during this year’s GBBC, too.

“It’s called an ‘echo flight,’” explains Marshall Iliff, eBird Project Leader at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. “After a huge irruption like we had last winter, the following year often yields higher-than-usual numbers as well. The abundance of lemmings that produced last year’s Snowy Owl irruption likely continued or emerged in new areas of eastern Can-

Photo: Carol Poulos, MI

numbers of Pine Siskins and redpolls.

These birds also push farther south when pine cone seed crops fail in the far north of Canada.”

Bird watchers from 135 countries participated in the 2014

The black-capped chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) is a small, nonmigratory, North American songbird that lives in deciduous and mixed forests. ada, more owls may have stayed east after last year’s irruption, and some of last year’s birds that came south are returning.”

“This may also be a big year for finches,” notes Audubon Chief Scientist Gary Langham.

“GBBC participants in North America should be on the lookout for larger

Photo: Charlie Prince, Alabama

Adult downy woodpeckers are the smallest of North America’s woodpeckers, and are native to mainly deciduous forested areas. count, documenting nearly 4,300 species on more than 144,000

bird checklists–that’s about 43 per cent of all the bird species in the world!

In addition to the U.S. and Canada, India, Australia, and Mexico led the way with the greatest number of checklists submitted.

“We especially want to encourage people to share their love of birds and bird watching with someone new this year,” says Dick Cannings at Bird Studies Canada. “Take your sweetheart, a child, a neighbor, or a coworker with you while you count birds for the GBBC. Share your passion and you may fledge a brand new bird watcher!”

The Great Backyard Bird Count is a great way for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with nature and show

some love for the birds this Valentine”s Day. Participation is free and easy. To learn more about how to join the count, download instructions, a slide show, web buttons, and other materials, visit www.birdcount.org.

While you’re there, get inspired by the winning photos from the 2014 GBBC photo contest.

The Great Backyard Bird Count is made possible in part by sponsor Wild Birds Unlimited.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a nonprofit membership institution interpreting and conserving the earth’s biological diversity through research, education, and citizen science focused on birds. Visit the Cornell Lab website at www. birds.cornell.edu Audubon is dedicated to protecting

birds and other wildlife and the habitat that supports them.

Our national network of community-based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs, and advocacy on behalf of areas sustaining important bird populations, engage millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in conservation. www. audubon.org Bird Studies Canada is our country’s leading national charitable organization dedicated to bird research and conservation.

Our mission is to conserve wild birds of Canada through sound science, on-theground actions, innovative partnerships, public engagement, and science-based advocacy. www.birdscanada.org

A14 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star/Journal

Service Centre REAL ESTATE

ACCOUNTANT

BOOKKEEPING Kathy Campbell Broker - Owner

INTEGRITY REALTY A name that speaks for itself Previously Carol Patton CGA

Our services include: - Financial statement preparation - Corporate and personal tax planning and compliance

- Succession and estate planning - Bookkeeping and payroll services

4642 Barriere Town Road | Call 250-672-9921

BOTTLE DEPOT

Bag Lady Enterprises

Depot

Holiday Hours

Closed December 24 - 27, 31, & January 1 - 3. We will be Open Dec. 28 - 30

4365 Borthwick Ave. Barriere - BC WINTER HOURS 10am - 4pm Mon. - Sat. Closed Sunday

BOOKKEEPING, TAX, ART GALLERY & OFFICE SUPPLIES

#2 - 4353 Conner Road, Barriere, BC V0E 1E0

Phone 250-672-1070 Toll Free 877-672-6611

Lana Laskovic, owner/operator

#1-4353 Conner Rd, Barriere, BC V0E 1E0 P. 250-672-9994 • E. ambats@live.ca

www.barriereproperties.com kathy@barriereproperties.com

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Rob Kerslake Steve Noble

Stu Cahoon • Cell 250.674.1783 Home 250.677.4299 Leave message for appointment

CONTRACTING Contracting

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• HEAVY DUTY TOWING • CERTIFIED TRAFFIC CONTROL • WRECKMASTER CERTIFIED • EXCAVATION & SKIDD STEER SERVICE • BOB CAT SERVICES • FIRE SUPPRESSION • PUMP TRUCK • READY MIX CONCRETE

• PLUMBING • PORTABLE TOILET RENTALS • SEPTIC INSTALLATIONS • SEPTIC PUMPING • WATER COMPACTION • WELL INSTALLATION • DUST CONTROL • WATER HAULING • REGISTERED ON-SITE WASTEWATER PRACTITIONER

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CONSTRUCTION

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ELECTRICAL

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Offering Heavy Duty mechanical and Inspections Mon. - Fri. • 8am – 5pm

• Electrical Contracting • Appliance Repairs

TING

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• Furnace Servicing • A/C Servicing

Small renovations • Home repairs Journeyman Carpenter with 25 years experience

Bonded B Electrical Contractor Reg #50325

• 25 Years Experience • Locally owned & operated

Bonded C Gas Fitter Reg #00043438

John Koroll 250-672-1073 • cell 250-319-4002 email: jolis@axion.net

Please call for estimate and service • Ken Craig 778-220-7595

HEATING & A/C

PELLETS

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Barriere Country Feeds BJC HVAC Ltd.

250-319-2306

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Rebates on equipment now in effect

Inspection & Cleaning of all Makes & Models of Central A/Cs, Furnaces, Heat Pumps, Boilers, Hot Water Tanks, HRVs, Etc.

250.672.0251

REAL ESTATE

Truck Load Sale!!

SPF Pellets $210 Fir $260 From the Armstrong Pinnacle Plant!

Taxes In

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FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS

EVERYTHING FROM BUILDING LOTS, RESIDENTIAL, ACREAGES, WATERFRONT, RANCHES AND COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES OFFERED FOR SALE

DEBRA FENNELL

MAUREEN CHESTER

Sales Representative 250-318-0366

Sales Representative 250-377-5165

debrafennell@gmail.com

mgc@royallepage.ca

Westwin Realty (Barriere) INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

2A-4480 Barriere Town Rd. • 250-672-5300 • Fax: 250-672-5306 http://www.RoyalLePageWestwinBarriere.com/

North Thompson Star/Journal Thursday, December 31, 2015

www.starjournal.net A15

Play-Doh, an accidental toy icon

By Lori Welbourne During a cleaning spree a few days ago I found some unopened Play-Doh in the back of a cupboard that had been in there for years. I immediately opened the lid and took a whiff. It still had that divine nostalgic smell I’ve loved for as long as I can remember. I took the familiar modelling compoud out of it’s container and smooshed it around with my hands, creating shapes and figures before putting the lid back on and placing it on our kitchen counter.

When my 12 year old daughter came home from school she saw it and reacted almost exactly the way I had. She opened it up, took a sniff and instinctively played with it as she told me about her day. When my 15 year old son got home he did the same thing. Neither one of them asked me where it came from or why it was in the kitchen, they automatically goofed around with it, molding it into different creations and letting their imaginations take over.

I asked them if they remembered playing with it when they were younger and of course they did. I also remembered it from when I was a kid.

“They had Play-Doh way back then?”

Daisy asked.

“Yes,” I said. “We didn’t have the electronics you kids have nowadays, but we definitely had this.”

Sam went on the laptop to Google it.

“It’s been around since 1956,” he said amazed. “Before you were even born, Mom.” That actually surprised me as well and we proceeded to read more.

It turned out it was originally a wallpaper cleaner in the 1930s when homes were heated with coal and the messiness of soot was created. It wasn’t until the mid 50s that it became something kids played with - and it was quite by acci-

dent that happened at all.

The product which was originally composed of flour, water, salt, boric acid, and mineral oil was first manufactured in Cincinnati by Kutol Soap Products and after many years of doing decent business their sales decreased drastically after World War II when oil and gas furnaces became popular, as well as the introduction of washable vinyl wallpaper, On the verge of bankruptcy the sisterin-law of one of the owners randomly read a magazine article in 1955 recommending wallpaper cleaner to make Christmas ornaments. She took a big can of it to the community nursery school she ran and the children rolled out the doughish compound and cut it into shapes with cookie cutters to make festive decorations. She then suggested a reworking of the substance to her brother-in-law so it could be marketed as a toy. What a brilliant idea.

Adding the colours red, blue and yellow, the revamped product was originally named Kutol’s Rainbow Modeling Compound. That didn’t sound fun enough so they renamed it Play-Doh and introduced it to the Cincinatti Board of Education in 1956 where it was used in elementary

schools for arts and crafts.

In 1957 it was shown on the popular children’s television show Captain Kangaroo. Bob Keeshan who played the Captain presented it for free, agreeing to take 2% of the profits in lieu of advertsing dollars since they couldn’t afford to pay for ads at the time. After that it was seen on Ding Dong School and Romper Room and by 1958, the sales of Play-Doh had reached nearly $3 million.

The product the struggling owners had been barely selling for .34 cents per can was suddenly selling for $1.50 and they couldn’t keep up with the tremendous demand.

It started getting exported to other countries and the sales kept increasing.

General Mills eventually bought the company and then Hasbro. Their surprise hit product continued to evolve and sales continued to soar.

It’s been 60 years since Play-Doh was first introduced to children and the recipe has been tinkered with and improved upon several times. It’s now selling in over 75 countries, has been inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame, and the Toy Industry Association has it listed as one of the 100 most memorable and most creative toys of the twentieth century.

Many consider it one of the most beloved toy products ever created - quite an extraordinary success for a nearly defunct substance once intended to wash walls.

And quite a coincidence we discovered this interesting bit of toy history after a rare cleaning spree.

I now have an added appreciation for Play-Doh, which I already loved, and I will be adding it to my list for Santa.

Lori Welbourne is a syndicated columnist. She can be contacted at LoriWelbourne.coma

Service Centre ROOFING

P rogressive

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• Emergency Repairs • Expert Leak Tracking • Journey Level Servicemen • Service & Maintenance

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Please call for Estimate & Service

SCRAP STEEL Free drop off for any scrap steel Appliances, car/truck parts parts, etc.

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A16 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star/Journal

FromMyKitchen

By Dee Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1 cup dry bread crumbs 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. In a bowl, blend the olive oil and garlic. In a separate bowl, mix the bread

crumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil, and pepper. Dip each chicken breast in the oil mixture, then in the bread crumb mixture.

Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, and top with any remaining bread crumb mixture. Bake 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear.

Budget-Friendly Hearty Winter Soup Ingredients 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped 1/2 head cabbage, coarsely chopped

1 cup chopped carrots 1 pound turkey bratwurst, sliced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper 1/2 cup dry white wine 3 cups chicken broth Directions: Place the sweet potatoes, cabbage, and carrots into a slow cooker, then place the bratwurst slices on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle with the salt, thyme, rosemary, and pepper. Pour the wine and chicken broth over the vegetables. Cook on Low until the sweet potatoes are easily pierced with a fork, 5 to 6 hours.

BARRIERE FIRST RESPONDERS

BARRIERE FIRE DEPARTMENT

Practices every Thursday at the Barriere Fire Hall Come out and join the team!!

ADec. p r i l 31/15 2 3 - - 2Jan. 9 , 26/16 012 Capricorn, a This week is when all past aboutconflict give and pops take, up this week,Do push Capricorn. for it aside. better others, It andisthey will to focus positive do for on you.the A special things thatforare in event calls some store for yougifts. rather extra-special December 22– than problems from March 21– April 19 January 19 the past.

January 20– February 18

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Aries, youAries, are and Speak up, familiar with the problem willthe be expression, “Your eyes solved. A little miracle are bigger than at home makes for your an stomach.”

This week interesting weekend. you have bitten Travel plans come off atogether. project that is just June 22– too much to chew.

July 22 Enlist some help.

Learning your A business from relationship mistakes cananhelp blossoms with you to grow, Cancer. addition.

A larger-thanAccept a challenge life personality drops presented to you by with an offer you this if it can’tweek, refuse. even Oh boy, scares You may oh boy,you.

Cancer. find it’s not so chal- September 23– October 22 lenging after all.

Don’t let anyone Some habits are hardtell you thatAquarius. you can’t to break, accomplish someLook to a mentor to thing, help andAquarius. you will As you have proven succeed.

A fitness time again, you goal isand easily achieved simply need toofset a with a new piece goal in your sights April 20– equipment. to get things done.

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Taurus, are on Cast asideyou all doubt, aTaurus. roll, and The now offer isit isgenuine only aand matter of will bring maintaining mo-A you many rewards. mentum a few test of faithfor begins— more days.

Don’t be strong.

Money woes let anyone slow you ease. down this week.

Leo, opporOops,many Leo. You fall tunities within behind onare a project, reach, raising but someyou are just not sure which eyebrows.

Not to way go.will Seek worry.toYou get advice Pisces back onfrom track sooner when you getthanks a than you think, spare moment. to an innovation.

Now is not The tiniest of a time to drag make your afeet, changes vast Scorpio.

Youinhave improvement a a full slate of tasksisto project.

A rejection tackle, and it seems a blessing in disguise. like the hours will Be grateful for what slip away quickly. you’re given, Scorpio.

October 23– Recharge and November 21 refocus.

Pisces, you The oddswhen may be love someone, it can stacked against you, be difficult todoesn’t step Pisces, but that aside andwon’t let that mean you come person make or out on top with his a little her own mistakes. ingenuity.

A weekend Be patient. endeavor requires a

Gemini, you may Feeling blessed not where theseknow days, Gemini? your is taking Pay itpath forward.

A you, but youat home are compromise fully that raisesaware everyone’s an adventure is in spirits and fun ensues store.

Take long! some all weekend time to prepare for the unknown that lies ahead.

Virgo, no one Spend less, save will more know what you’re and you’ll definitely like deepVirgo. insideMore unget more, less youbottom shareline a few in your secrets. and moreYou peacedon’t of have give everymind.to Flowers provide thing but let a greataway, pick-me-up. some information August 23– September 22 slip out.

Sagittarius, you News from afar gets never shy away the creative juicesfrom aflowing, challenge, but you and you also know when to accomplish more than pick yourinbattles. you have some time, IfSagittarius. something arises A game of this that seems wits week at the office wastechallenging. of time, pass November 22– aproves December 21 it by.

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May 21– June 21

COMMUNITY EVENTS & SERVICES

250-674-2674 Dec. 31 - Bullarama and/or Dance NT Agriplex doors open at 6pm Dec. 31 - New Years Eve Dance at the Barriere Legion Live entertainment and appies tickets $10 at the Bar Jan. 7 - Yellowhead 4H Club AGM Legion Basement at 7pm.

Jan 8-9 - BSS Sr Boys basketball tourney Feb. 8 - Family Day Mar 19-21 - Kamloops Cowboy Festival Army Cadets - 2941 RCACC Cadet Corp. - ages 12-18. New Recruits Welcome. Hethar McIntosh 250-587-0027.

Adult Day Program: Mon. & Wed. 9-2. Lunch, crafts & music at the Seniors Ctr. Sherry Jardine 672-5121 After School Program: Mon.-Fri. 3-6pm @ Ridge (NTVIC room). For info call 250-672-0033.

Baha’i Night: Fri., 7:30pm, @ Marge Mitchell’s 6725615.

Barriere Craft Group: Tues. 6:30-8:30 Barriere Employment Barriere & District Heritage Society: 3rd Wed. of mth, 1pm at NTVIC in winter, at Museum in summer.

Barriere & District Seniors Events: Whist - Mon.

July 23– August 22

Some can see Lady Luck smiles on straight you, Libra,past and your there protective facade, is nothing beyond your Libra. why not reach. ASotreasured take it offresurfaces, and simheirloom ply let others see the bringing back many real You won’t fondyou? memories. be disappointed, and neither will they.

FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY

7pm, Carpet Bowling - Tues., Thurs. 9am-12, Fun Cards - Wed. 1:30pm, Breakfast - every 3rd Sun. at 8am (excld December) Barriere Farmer’s Market. Every Thursday. Sam’s Pizza & Rib House Hwy 5. 10am-2pm (May - Nov.) Barriere Youth Group - Fridays ages 12-18 at the Ridge 7-10pm. Enjoy activities, sports and more.

Riding Club: Apr-Oct: 3rd Thurs. 7pm at NTVIC. www.barrieredistrictridingclub.com. Darcey 250318-9975.

Cancer Support: 672-9263, 672-0017 or 672-1890 Crib: Barriere Legion 242, every Thurs. 7pm, Sept. to May. Darts: Barriere Legion 242, Thurs. 7pm, Sept. to May. Curling Club: Oct.-Mar. Curling, league & bonspiels.

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

Barriere A-A: Every Tues. 7:30pm Pentecostal Church 818 Amnesty Rd. 250-672-9643 or 250-6729934 Barriere Elementary PAC: 1st Wed. of mth, 6:30pm, call 672-9916.

Barriere Drop In Art. Fridays 11:30am-2:30pm

at NTVIC from end of Sept to March (except holidays). Nominal fee. All welcome.

Barriere Fire Dept.: Firehall, Thurs., 7pm Barriere Food Bank: Every Wed. 672-0029 Barriere Genealogy: once a mth at the Library, except Jul/Aug. For dates/times call 250-672-9330.

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

Photography Club. Shelley Lampreau 250-6725728.

Community Quilters: Every Thurs. 2pm at the Barriere Food Bank. Judy 250-672-5275 or Fran 250-672-2012.

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

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

BSS PAC & Booster Club: 1st Tues., 5:30pm. 250672-9943.

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

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

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

Community Kitchen: Call Dede 554-3134.

Community Soup Day: Christian Life Assembly on

Annesty Rd. 3rd Mon., 11:30 am.

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

Family & Caregivers Group: 1st Mon. of the mth, 10am @ Ridge, kitchen. Info call 778-220-5930.

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

Literacy Tutoring: Learn to read FREE. Jill 250-3198023.

Little Fort Recreation: 1st Thurs. each mth 7pm LNT Catholic Women’s League: 2nd Sat. each mth, 9am at St. George’s. Call 250-672-9330 for info.

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

McLure Fire Dept.: Wednesdays, 7pm, Firehall Men’s Floor Hockey: Tues., 8-10pm at Barriere Sec. NT Fish & Game: 4th Mon. each mth 7pm NTVIC. 672-1070 NT Valley Hospice: 3rd Tues, 11am, Little Fort Hall.

672-5660.

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

Safe Home: Get away from domestic abuse, call 250-674-2135 (Clw) or 250-682-6444 (Barriere).

North Thompson Star Journal Thursday, December 31, 2015

www.starjournal.net A17

To advertise in print:

Browse more at:

Call: 250-672-5611 Email: advertising@starjournal.net Self-serve: blackpressused.ca Career ads: localworkbc.ca

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ON THE WEB:

Great deals - low prices CANADA BENEFIT Group Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888511-2250 or www.canada benefit.ca/free-assessment CANADA BENEFIT Group Do you or someone you know suffer from a disability? Get up to $40,000 from the Canadian Government. Toll-free 1-888511-2250 or www.canada benefit.ca/free-assessment Clearwater Alcoholics Anonymous Sunshine Group meets every Tuesday, 8 pm, Elks Hall 72 Taren Dr. Open to Everyone For info contact Wendy 250-587-0026 Do you need help with reading, writing or math?

FREE confidential adult tutoring available.

• Clearwater Literacy 250-674-3530 • Barriere Literacy 250-672-9773 Safe Home Response Providing a safe place to escape for women and their children.

Volunteers always needed.

Clearwater 250-674-2135, Barriere 250-672-6444, or North Thompson Valley 1-855-674-2135

HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTATION Specialists in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career! Contact us now to start your training day. www.canscribe.com.

1-800-466-1535. info@canscribe.com MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get online training you need from an employertrusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

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Services

Photography / Video PHOTOS

Employment

by Keith McNeill

Digital and film photographs.

Phone 250-674-3252 or email:keith.mcneill65@gmail.com

Business Opportunities

Moving & Storage

HIP OR Knee replacement?

Arthritic Conditions/COPD? Restrictions in Walking/Dressing? Disability Tax Credit $2,000 Tax Credit $20,000 Refund. Apply Today For Assistance: 1-844-453-5372.

• Indoor Storage Units • Office space with equipment storage available. Hwy access for convenience & exposure 250-674-0145 info@oncallservices.ca 851 Yellowhead Hwy 5

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Services

Merchandise for Sale

Plumbing

Heavy Duty Machinery

FULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, reliable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1800-573-2928.

FULL SERVICE Plumbing from Parker Dean. Fast, reliable, 24/7 service. Take $50 off your next job if you present this ad. Vancouver area. 1800-573-2928.

Merchandise for Sale

A-CHEAP, LOWEST PRICES STEEL SHIPPING Dry Storage Containers Used 20’40’45’53’ and insulated containers all sizes in stock. 40’ containers as low as $2,200DMG. Huge freezers.

Experienced wood carvers needed, full time. Ph Toll free 24 hours 1-866-528-7108 or 1778-298-3192 8am-5pm. Delivery BC and AB www.rtccontainer.com

Appliances For sale: Washer in good working order. $150.00 obo.

Call 250-587-6151

Merchandise for Sale

Misc. for Sale SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - make money and save money with your own bandmill - cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info and DVD:

www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT

1-800-566-6899 Ext:400OT.

Misc. Wanted FIREARMS. ALL types wanted, estates, collections, single items, military. We handle all paperwork and transportation.

Licensed Dealer. 1-86-9600045. www.dollars4guns.com

Food Products

Food Products

Estate Sales 1200 sq. ft. house. 3 bdrm, 2 bath, .79 acre w/fruit trees, garden area, 600 sq ft shop, & 300 sq ft woodshed. Located on Peavine Rd. $120,000. obo. Ph 1-250-318-7235

If you see a wildfire, report it to

1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on most cellular networks.

Career Opportunities

Box 67, 100 Mile House B.C. V0K 2E0

BEFORE YOU SELL: • ASPEN • BIRCH • COTTONWOOD • PINE • SPRUCE • FIR PULP LOGS Please call KATHERINE LEPPALA (250) 395-6218 (direct line) • (250) 395-0584 (cell) (250) 395-6201 (fax)

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Xaxli’p EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

XAXLI’P ADMINISTRATOR

Fight Back.

Volunteer your time, energy and skills today.

TRU invites applications for the following position: FACULTY ABTS 1140, 1200, 1300 Applied Business Technology Program Regional Centre, Clearwater, BC For further information, please visit:

www.tru.ca/careers We wish to thank all applicants; however, only those under consideration will be contacted.

Employment Agencies/Resumes

Employment Agencies/Resumes

Barriere Employment Services YOUR GATEWAY TO LABOUR MARKET INFORMATION RECEPTIONIST (PT) – JCS Welding B0750 LOGGING TRUCK DRIVER – West Pine OUTBOARD MOTOR MECHANIC – Casual Logging BC0726 WAITRESS – Station House Restaurant B0749 BC0729 CARE AIDE (Part Time) – BC0746 CASHIER – A&W BC0630 CARE AIDE (Regular PT Night Shift) – COOK – A&W BC0685 Yellowhead Pioneer Residence BC0738 DRIVER-Hy’s North Transportation BC0453 CHAMBERMAID/HOUSEKEEPING – MonteCarlo Motel BC 0736 Mike Wiegele - http://www.wiegele.com/employment.htm Sun Peaks - http://www.sunpeaksresort.com/corporate/work-and-play/opportunities FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE ABOVE JOBS PLEASE GO TO

www.barriere-employment.ca

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

Free computer & Internet access • Free resume help • Free info on many services The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia In Partnership with Barriere & District Chamber of Commerce and Yellowhead Community Services

629 Barriere Town Rd. V0E 1E0 • 250-672-0036 • Fax: 250-672-2159 E-mail: info@barriere-employment.ca • Website: www.barriere-employment.ca

Xaxli’p is a St’at’imc community located in the beautiful Fountain Valley, 15km east of Lillooet with great community and economic development potential. The successful candidate requires a postsecondary education in Business, Administration, or Commerce. The successful candidate must have senior management experience with general program and services of an Aboriginal Organization, and will be responsible for the following: t Reporting to and receiving direction from Chief and Council t Has a minimum of 3 to 5 years administrative experience with an aboriginal organization t Have excellent knowledge and implementation of AANDC, FNHA, and other agencies, programs, and services t Facilitate the development and implementation of plans to include strategic, capital, financial, program, and economic development t Provide effective leadership and teambuilding through employee supervision and development t Develop and/or assist in proposals for funding t Identify and provide for the needs of the community and membership An excellent benefit package is offered that includes medical, dental and pension plan, as well as an opportunity to contribute to the success and growth of a great community.

Please mail, hand deliver, fax, or e-mail current resume with cover letter and references to the following address: Xaxli’p Attention: Chief Darrell Bob Sr. PO Box: 1330 Lillooet, BC V0K 1V0 E-mail: chief@xaxlip.ca Fax: 250-256-7892 Resumes will be received until 3:00pm January 22, 2016

Adopt a Shelter Cat! The BC SPCA cares for thousands of orphaned and abandoned cats each year.

If you can give a homeless cat a second chance at happiness, please visit your local shelter today. www.spca.bc.ca

A18 www.starjournal.net A18 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star/Journal Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star Journal

Real Estate

Rentals

Business for Sale

Mobile Homes & Pads

One Chair Hair Salon in Clearwater Legion Mini Mall. All furnishings, equip, & supplies incl. Ph. 250-674-3354 for info.

For Sale By Owner For Sale or Rent: 225 Murtle Cres, 3 bdrm, 3.5 bath, dbl heated garage w/toilet & shower, rent $1,150/mo + util.

For Sale: 208 Dutch Lk. Rd, 3 bdrm, 1/2 duplex, 2 full bath, $125,000.00. Offers.

Pls lvg msg at 250-674-3668

Rentals Commercial/ Industrial Commercial space avail for rent in the Interior Whitewater Bldg. starting Jan. 1/2016.

Spacious, bright, clean, like new. Close to amenities. 675 sqft, $500/mo. 73 Old North Thompson Hwy, Clearwater.

Ph 250-674-3727

No improvement in health care wait times as Canadians still wait more than 18 weeks for surgery

Vavenby: 2 bdrm covered mobile w/addition on priv lot. W/d, f/s. Ref req. $675/mo + dd.

Pets neg. Call 250-676-9210

Community Newspapers We’re at the heart of things™ Homes for Rent

Fraser Institute

Clearwater: 5bdrm 2500 sq ft hm w/ 2, 3 & 4 piece bath in Weyerhaeuser sub. Cost neg depending on tenants. If you are horse people, I have 8 acres of land that could be incl. House and land are in 2 different locations. Call Randy at 250-674-8288

Rooms for Rent Clearwater: Room for rent in Weyerhaeuser sub. Wi-Fi, Sat TV. Nice clean place. NS, NP. $500/mo, incl laundry and util.

Call 250-674-1768

Suites, Lower Barriere: 1bdrm suite, would suit single/elder person. Near amenities, ample parking, hydro/heat incl. $650 to the right person newly renovated, avail.

Jan. 1. 778-220-2148.

Barriere: 2 bdrm basement suite, all util, all appl. NS/NP, no parties. Separate entrance /parking. $750/mo. 250-6725643

Transportation

Auto Accessories/Parts 4 Winter Tires w/rims 17” - 8 studded for Dodge truck. $400 250-672-2447

CHURCH DIRECTORY

CHURCH OF ST. PAUL

4464 Barriere Town Road

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

All Are Welcome

the Rev. Brian Krushel

Office: 250 672-5653 www.norththompsonpc.ca CHRISTIAN LIFE ASSEMBLY 4818 Annesty Rd. (Across from High School) Bible perspectives Sunday 7am on 93.1 Radio 10:30am - Sunday Service and Children’s Sunday School Pastor: Lance Naylor 250-672-0111 www.clabarriere.org

This Crossword Sponsored by

WELLS GRAY HOME HARDWARE 86 STATION RD., CLEARWATER

674-3717

Breathe through a straw for 60 seconds.

That’s what breathing is like with cystic fibrosis.

No wonder so many people with CF stop breathing in their early 30’s

THE OPEN DOOR

Median wait time by province in 2015:

FELLOWSHIP 11:00 am Sundays at the Ridge

Bible Study on Tuesdays at 1pm

Duplex / 4 Plex Clearwater: 2 bdrm & 1 bdrm in tri-plex. Own entrance, Close to amenities. 2bdrm $600/mo; 1 bdrm $500/mo + DD. Call Julie 250-674-0188 Clearwater: 3 bdrm duplex in Miller sub. F/S. Avail Jan. 1 Call Julie 250-674-0188

Mobile Homes & Pads Barriere: 2 bdrm for rent, $650/mo + util. DD/RR. 778257-0498

PASTOR TODD ENGLISH Join us for refreshments after the Service.

Phone 250-672-1864 anytime.

Please help.

Affiliated with North American Baptist Association.

“Believe in the Lord Jesus - and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31)

British Columbia

Wait from GP to specialist Wait from specialist to (weeks) treatment (weeks) 8.4 14.0

Total wait time (weeks)* 22.4

Manitoba Ontario Quebec

7.8 6.8 7.3

19.4 14.2 16.4

Alberta Saskatchewan

New Brunswick

Seventh-day Adventists

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

VANCOUVER—The median wait time for Canadians seeking medically necessary surgery or other therapeutic treatment remains stagnant for the third consecutive year, finds a new study released today by the Fraser Institute, an independent, non-partisan Canadian public policy think-tank.

The study, an annual survey of physicians from across the country, reports a median wait time of 18.3 weeks, up slightly from 18.2 weeks in 2014. In 1993, the wait time was just 9.3 weeks.

The study examines the total wait time faced by patients across 12 medical specialities from referral by a general practitioner (ie: a family doctor) to consultation with a specialist, and subsequent receipt of treatment.

“These protracted wait times are not the result of insufficient spending but because of poor policy. In fact, it’s possible to reduce wait times without higher spending or abandoning universality.

The key is to better understand the health policy experiences of other more successful universal health care systems around the developed world,” said Bacchus Barua, senior economist at the Fraser Institute’s Centre for Health Policy Studies and author of Waiting Your Turn: Wait Times for Health Care in Canada, 2015 Report.

On a provincial basis, Saskatchewan now has the shortest waits in the country at 13.6 weeks, a dramatic turnaround from 2011 when it was among the country’s longest wait times (29.0 weeks). It’s followed by Ontario (14.2 weeks), Quebec (16.4 weeks), and Manitoba (19.4 weeks), which has also decreased wait times since its 2013 high of 25.9 weeks.

For the third consecutive year, British Columbia recorded an increase in wait times with its median wait now sitting at 22.4 weeks.

Meanwhile, the Atlantic provinces face the longest median wait times: Prince Edward Island (43.1 weeks) followed closely by New Brunswick (42.8 weeks) and Newfoundland and Labrador (42.7 weeks). However, the number of survey responses in Atlantic Canada were lower than other provinces which may result in reported median wait times being higher or lower than those actually experienced.

Among the various specialities, the longest referral-to-treatment wait times exist for patients requiring orthopaedic surgery — the treatment of ailments related to bones, joints, and muscles — at 35.7 weeks and neurosurgery (27.6 weeks), surgery performed on the nervous system.

In fact, patients requiring such treatments can expect to wait over 15 weeks to just get a consultation with a specialist after getting a referral from their family doctor.

“These wait times for medically necessary treatment in Canada are not simply minor inconveniences.

They can result in pain and suffering for patients, contribute to lost productivity at work, decreased quality of life, and in the worst cases, disability and death,” Barua said.

On a somewhat better note, patients face much shorter referral-totreatment wait times, relative to other treatments, for radiation oncology (4.1 weeks) and medical oncology (4.5 weeks) — specialties involved in the treatment of cancer.

Nova Scotia Prince Edward Island Newfoundland & Labrador Canada

1-800-378-CCFF • www.cysticfibrosis.ca

10.2 6.7

11.0 6.9

25.4

17.4

13.2 28.3 22.2 8.5

11.6 7.4 9.1 12.9 14.9 20.5 9.8

*Totals may not equal the sum of subtotals due to rounding

21.2 13.6

42.8 26.1 43.1 42.7 18.3

North Thompson Star/Journal Thursday, December 31, 2015

www.starjournal.net A19

DRINKING DRIVING COUNTERATTACK

On Now Don’t Drink & Drive

Bill Kershaw

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

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

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

What will it take to stop impaired driving?

Drinking and Driving can ruin more that just your car!!!

1977 was an important year. It was the year Han Solo said, “May the Force be with you.”

It was also the year Elvis passed away. Maybe even more importantly, 1977 was the beginning of the Drinking Driving CounterAttack Program in B.C. – the very first of its kind in Canada.

Since its humble beginnings, we’ve seen significant reductions in impaired-related crashes. In fact, the program has been so successful most of us know instinctively that drinking and driving don’t mix. But did you know that there has been an increase in the number of drivers under the influence of drugs, such as prescription medication, while driving?

If your festivities involve alcohol, arrange for a designated driver or use other safe options to get home safely – call a taxi, or call a sober friend. Some communities offer Operation Red Nose, a volunteer service that provides safe rides home for drivers and their passengers.

Did you know that if you crash while drinking and driving, you’re likely in breach of your insurance policy? That means that you could be 100 per cent responsible for the costs if you damage someone

else’s property or injure them. That’s the word from our friends at ICBC who run the campaign (in partnership with police and the B.C. government) with great success.

Their website has lots of great information, including this quiz: True or False? *As long as I eat a big meal before drinking, I’ll be okay to drive.

False. It’s a good idea to eat while drinking alcoholic beverages. But a full stomach won’t stop you being impaired. *All I need is coffee, food or fresh air and I’ll be sober enough to drive home.

False. No amount of hot coffee, cold showers or fresh air will sober you up. The only cure is time. *Driving stoned isn’t

as bad as driving drunk.

False. Studies show that “stoned” drivers can be as dangerous as drunk drivers. Depending on what you’ve smoked, swallowed or injected, your impairment could range from slowed reflexes and flawed depth perception to hallucinations, psychosis and seizures.

New legislation means police now can test for drug-impairment and charge drivers who re-

fuse to provide blood,

saliva or urine samples

when requested. *The penalties in B.C. are the toughest in Canada.

We Guarantee: True. B.C. has the toughest impaired laws in Canada. If you drive impaired, you can count on penalties adding up between $600 and $4,060 – even if All Locations feature Freshly Baked Bread, Groceries, Refreshments and it’s the first time you’reConvenience Items, Lottery Tickets, Gas and Oil, Fishing Bait and Tackle, caught – and more time Greyhound Bus Services, and Much More! off the road.

Stay safe!

LITTLE FORT & CLEARWATER

Located on

Make the right choices in 2016

Yellowhead Hwy 5

IT CAN RUIN YOUR LIFE

Located on the corner of Yellowhead Hwy 5, and

Be Safe & Don’t Drink & Drive

In Little Fort

Clearwater Valley Road

* Agency Liquor Store Located at Little Fort Site!

4480 Barriere Town Road Phone: 250-672-9791 Fax: 250-672-9746

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

CATES FORD OIEN EPP BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS

Have a safe holiday season don’t drink & drive FA M I LY L AW CO R P O R AT E L AW W I L L A N D E S TAT E S

R E A L E S TAT E L AW PERSONAL INJURY C R I M I N A L L AW

OLD FIRE HALL NO. 1 • 300 - 125 4TH AVENUE KAMLOOPS, BC V2C 3N3

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

Telephone: 250-372-8811 • Fax: 250-828-6697 • Email: info@cfoelaw.com

District of Barriere 4936 Barriere Town Road (Barriere Ridge Elementary) Box 219, Barriere, BC V0E 1E0

Phone: 250.672.9751

Drinking & Driving

Email: inquiry@barriere.ca www.barriere.ca

Keep your family safe • Don’t Drink & Drive

A20 www.starjournal.net

Thursday, December 31, 2015 North Thompson Star/Journal

Getting a grip on Canadian winter driving North Thompson Star/Journal Shipment data released in Novemeber from the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada (TRAC) suggests tire retailers are gearing up for increased consumer demand for winter tires. These shipment increases are due in part to measures by government, industry and stakeholders to educate drivers about the superior traction and stopping distance of winter tires.

The data is part of a comprehensive new Winter Tire Report released by TRAC to support consumer education efforts by government and industry stakeholders.

The report details the latest winter tire shipment, market, usage and test data, along with recommendations to increase winter road safety and build awareness of the benefits of winter tires.

In particular, TRAC reports there has been significant growth in winter tire shipments to dealers, with a 35 per cent increase in Manitoba, a 25 per cent increase in Ontario, and a 14 per cent increase in the Atlantic provinces.

There are many reasons why tire dealers are ramping up for increased consumer demand for winter tires, but it is no coincidence that it is the provinces who are showing leadership in terms of government programs are also showing the largest increases in winter tire shipments.

• In Manitoba, the provincial government implemented an innovative low-interest winter tire financing program in 2014 and is continuing the program for the 2015/16 winter.

• In Ontario, the provincial

A division of

government recently introduced a mandatory insurance discount program for drivers who use winter tires as part of their initiative to improve road safety and to lower insurance premiums for Ontario drivers.

A 2014 survey conducted

by Leger for TRAC, shows that outside of Quebec, where winter tires are the law, only half of Canadian motorists use winter tires.

The survey found cost to be a primary deterrent. However, financial incentives offered by government and industry, are proving effective at making winter tires more feasible for many drivers.

“For the safest and very best winter driving experience, we recommend that motorists use winter tires,” says Carolyn Goard, Communications Manager of TRAC. “Government initiatives are working and that’s leading to growing demand and making our roadways safer. As an industry, we will continue to do our part to educate drivers about the importance of using winter tires.”

Other highlights of the report include: • Role of government is key.

Government leaders are playing a proactive role in encouraging Canadian motorists to use winter tires. Through education and incentives, they are helping to reduce preventable collisions, injuries and fatalities.

• Easy to recognize labeling.

Tires that display the ThreePeak Mountain Snowflake Symbol (also referred to as the ‘Alpine Symbol’) on the sidewall have been rigorously tested and meet specific snow traction performance requirements.

• Misconceptions persist.

While there is a growing understanding from consumers of the safety and performance benefits of winter tires, 63 per cent still cling to the idea that all-season tires offer sufficient traction and braking capabilities for winter driving. Data shows that’s just not true and that winter tires save lives.

• Temperature is everything with winter tires. At temperatures at or below 7 degrees Celsius, winter tires significantly

outperform all others. Winter tires provide superior traction in cold-weather because they feature a softer tread compounds that maintain flexibility.

• Provincial governments are doing their part. Government jurisdictions across Canada are proactively promoting road safety in the winter. Consumer education resources, financial incentives — among other initiatives — are helping to increase winter tire adoption nation-wide.

The full 2015 TRAC Winter Tire Report, along with a wide range of winter tires resources, can be viewed by visiting news. tracanada.ca/winter-tires The Tire and Rubber Asso-

ciation of Canada (TRAC) is the national trade association representing tire makers, rubber products manufacturers and importers as well as rubber recyclers and suppliers of goods and services related to the industry.

TRAC is committed to educating drivers about proper tire care and maintenance. A key advocacy goal in the cold-weather months is to raise awareness about safe winter driving and the safety and performance benefits of winter tires.

Twitter: @BeTireSmartCA Facebook: Be Tire Smart Canada YouTube: Be Tire Smart Canada LinkedIn: Tire and Rubber Association of Canada

North Thompson Funeral & Drake Cremation Services

ASK DRAKE Q. What do people get hung up on?

A. The price. You might save $50 by using Acme Funeral Home, but you’re not buying a TV set. And five years from now that $50 probably won’t matter. Check out all the funeral homes -- make a day of it (just kidding!)

They’re all different. Find one that feels comfortable to you. ~~~~~ Drake Smith, MSW, is the Owner and Funeral Director of North Thompson Funeral & Drake Cremation Services. With locations in downtown Kamloops (phone 250-377-8225), Clearwater phone (250-674-3030), and Barriere (MaryAnn Shewchuk, Manager phone 250-672-1999), his dedicated team has served people in the Kamloops area and the entire North Thompson Valley since 2005.