Caledonia Courier, February 24, 2016

Inside

◆ Nak’azdli supports pool - pg 3 ◆ Ski & Board Competitors - pg 7 ◆ Community Builder - pg 12 ◆ Pink Shirt Day - pg 6

Published by Black Press Ltd at 150 West Columbia Street, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0

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WEDNESDAY, February 24, 2016

NEWS BRIEFS British Columbians nominated for Grammy Awards VICTORIA - Three of British Columbia’s top independent music industry leaders are returning from Los Angeles, where they were nominated for the 2016 Grammy Awards.

Smithers resident Alex Cuba was nominated for Best Latin Pop Album for his album “Healer” at Monday night’s Awards. This is Cuba’s second time receiving a nomination in this category since 2011.

Vancouver producer Kevin Howes and audio engineer Greg Mindorff received a nomination in the category of Best Historical Album for the collection of indigenous folk, rock and country music titled “Native North America, 1966-1985, Volume One”.

British Columbia has a large and diverse talent pool of artists who are known for producing all genres of music including pop, rock, classical, blues, folk and jazz.

Music develops culture, promotes talent and diversifies B.C.’s growing economy. There are an estimated 6,425 artists in the province. This number includes 5,825 singers or musicians and 600 conductors, composers and arrangers.

PHONE: 996-8482 www.caledoniacourier.com

VOL. 38 NO. 52 $1.30 inc. GST

Ski and board competitors compete at Zones

The Fort St. James Secondary School Ski and Board Team competed at Zones in Jasper, Alberta on Feb. 8-9. Team competing: Dallen Olund, Cela West, Jessie Grant, Seirra McNeill, Tessa Knight, Jazmyn Dionne, Ella Davis, Grace Willick, Jaya Samra, Oscar Croucher, Joey Saharchuk, Ayden Leon, Jeff Boschman, Jayden Greenaway, Landon Thompson, (2nd Row Left-right) Emma Kossey, Austin McKersie, Quintanna Paziuk, Minna Jones, Gabriela Willick, Sydnee Schlamp, Cody Holland, Nathan Johnson,(Bottom row, left-right) Coach- Martina Jones, David Goerz, Coach-Chris Greenaway, Jaynee Gauthier, Orrie Leon, Coach-Sarah Grill, Mara Martin, Kaylee Walstrom.

Photo submitted by Sarah Grill

Syrian Refugee Group: let the fundraising begin BARBARA LATKOWSKI Caledonia Courier

The Syrian Refugee Group of Fort St. James has fundraising underway.

Only after three meetings, the group has already committed to sponsoring a Syrian family or two.

Over 8 million Syrians have been displaced and 4 million have fled conflict and poverty in hope of finding a better future and a new opportunity elsewhere.

About 25,000 refugees are set to arrive in Can-

ada in 2016.

And Fort St. James is ready to do their part and welcome a Syrian family to their home town.

“It’s all about making them feel safe,” said group member, Louise Evan-Salt.

Evan-Salt has played an integral part in finding out more about the process of sponsorship.

The sponsorship is likely to take place through the Mennonite Central Committee who is based in Abbotsford B.C. This international organization has been approved for this purpose and it is keen to help various

groups like the one in Fort St. James get through the sponsorship process.

And with the situation being as desperate as it is, Fort St. James could see a Syrian family in the community within 1-4 months.

But first, it’s all about money.

The blended sponsorship program seems the most favored option as government assistance will be made available throughout the one year commitment.

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Courier

NEWS

Syrian Refugee Group From front About $27,500 needs to be secured and ready before the process can even begin.

Priorities such as a budget (for clothing, food, etc.) and housing must be presented as well before applying for sponsorship.

Regardless, the group is committed and is now asking for support from the community.

The first Syrian refugee fundraising event will take place on March 19th.

A Toonie Gift Basket Fundraiser is inviting anyone, including all local companies and organizations to donate a basket of gifts.

The draw for the gift baskets will take place at a

pot luck ethnic dinner at the Fort St. James High School gym. Baskets are to be ready for collection on March 11.

The ethnic dinner invites all to bring an ethnic dish to the school gym for a family night of food, fun and even some belly dancing, drumming and face painting thrown in to complete the evening.

For more information, contact: Nancy at (250) 9963671 nancyc2@telus.net Joyce at (250) 839-3134 joycejylam@hotmail.com The next Syrian Refugee Group meeting will take place at 7 p.m. on Wednesday March 2 at the Fort St. James Public Library. All are welcome.

Members of the Syrian Refugee Group of Fort St. James busily prepare for the first fundraiser set for March 19.

Photo by Barbara Latkowski

District of Fort St. James Calendar FEBRUARY, 2016 SUNDAY

MONDAY

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Municipal Website: www.fortstjames.ca

6

9:30-11am Pre School Gym @ Nak’azdli Deadline for Mascot Contest Entries

Lunch Program @ The Anglican Church Murray Ridge open for Pro D Day

MARCH

9:30-11am Pre School Gym @ Nakalbun

Public Skating 7:00-8:30 En Point Dance @ Old Gym 6pm Music Makers 7:00pm Family Night Caledonia Classic Sled Dog Race Men’s Curling Bonspiel

3

9:30-11am Pre School Gym @ Nakalbun Women Connect NVCSS Boardroom 349 Stuart Drive 6-8pm

9:30-11am Pre School Gym @ Nak’azdli

SATURDAY Music Makers 7:00pm Adult Night Men’s Curling Bonspiel Caledonia Classic Sled Dog Race Retro Ski day Community Pancake Breakfast 8-10 am at community centre

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27

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5 Music Makers Adult Night 7:00pm

Music Makers Family Night 7:00pm

9:30 Story Time at the Library

TBar Everest Challenge Troll vs Murray Ridge

10

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Lunch Program @ The Anglican Church

FRIDAY

9:30 Story Time at the Library

9:30-11am Pre School Gym @ Nakalbun

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Lunch Program @ The Anglican Church

THURSDAY 25

24

8

7 TBar Everest Challenge Troll vs Murray Ridge

WEDNESDAY

Parent & Tot Skating 3:45-5pm

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Last Public Skating of the season 5:30-7:00

TUESDAY

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12

18

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9:30 Story Time at the Library

Community Foundation AGM - 7pm at Community Centre

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15

14 9:30-11am Pre School Gym @ Nak’azdli

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Lunch Program @ The Anglican Church

9:30-11am Pre School Gym @ Nakalbun

Slush Cup & Bath Tub Races

9:30 Story Time at the Library

Food Bank

20 Slush Cup & Bath Tub Races

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21 9:30-11am Pre School Gym @ Nak’azdli

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Lunch Program @ The Anglican Church

9:30-11am Pre School Gym @ Nakalbun

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

9:30-11am Pre School Gym @ Nak’azdli

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250-996-8233

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22 Public Skating 5:30-7:00

Get Active in 2016 last week for Winter Fest Cumulative Marathon

9:30 Story Time at the Library

Winter Fest Feb 27 Trappers Events, fire building, bannock and tea making, trap setting and more.

Sign up your team of 4 at District Office or at Dog Sled Races Office: 477 Stuart Drive West

Telephone: 250-996-8233

Follow us on Twitter: @DFSJames

Like us at Facebook: District of Fort St. James

Email: office@fortstjames.ca

Caledonia Courier Wednesday, February 24, 2016

www.caledoniacourier.com A3

Courier

NEWS Lakeshore Realty 376 ELM STREET Within walking distance of David Hoy School and Goodwin Park.

Updates including bathroom cabinets and fixtures, kitchen cabinets, tile backsplash, cherry hardwood flooring, ceramic tile in the kitchen/dining room. Natural gas fireplace in the living room with marble tile and solid wood mantel, fresh paint.

Workshop or hobby room with outside entrance and potential 5th bedroom located just off the large main entry. $227,000

You’ll find us at 169 STUART DRIVE, FSJ lkshore@telus.net 250-996-8618

Please join us for a

RETIREMENT CELEBRATION In honour of Ann McCormick Thursday, February 25th, 2016 3:00pm to 5:30pm College of New Caledonia 179 Douglas Avenue Fort St. James RSVP: Lynne Willick cncfsj@cnc.bc.ca (250) 996-7019 From left to right: Zoe Dhillon, (chair of fundraising in Vanderhoof) Alec McKinnon, (councillor for Nak’azdli) Nicholette Prince, (Nak’azdli’s chief operating officer) and Desiree Whitely. (youth representative at Nak’azdli).

Photo by Barbara Latkowski

Nak’azdli Band in Fort St. James supports new aquatic centre in Vanderhoof BARBARA LATKOWSKI Caledonia Courier

It’s been a while in the making but the $12 million swimming pool facility in Vanderhoof is no longer a vision. It’s finally becoming a reality.

And the Nak’azdli Band in Fort St. James is determined to help make it so.

A cheque of $50,000 was presented to Zoe Dhillon, chair of fundraising for the District of Vanderhoof on Feb. 17.

This is the largest community donation received towards the project so far.

“We are so overjoyed that Nak’azdli sees the value in this project,” Dhillon said. “It’s wonderful to see the community and surrounding communities come

together to make this happen.”

The aquatic centre will be located next to the Vanderhoof Arena. Fundraising began in September 2014 and according to Dhillon, everyone is so happy with the results.

The total project goal is $12 million.

Of that, $4 million will be collected from taxes and an additional $7.5 million will be raised by the District of Vanderhoof.

The community fundraising goal is $500,000 and including the donation from Nak’azdli, the amount raised now stands at $451,000.

For Alec McKinnon, councillor for Nak’azdli Band in Fort St. James, the facility is for everybody.

“This will help Fort St. James,” McK-

innon says.

Nak’azdli’s youth representative, Desiree Whitely couldn’t agree more.

“It will be great for our youth to have a pool so close where they can learn water safety and have fun,” Whitely said.

Nak’azdli sees the importance of learning how to swim. Being surrounded by the water of Stuart Lake, children in Fort St. James can now have the opportunity to take swimming lessons at the new facility.

Nak’azdli’s comprehensive community plan and the Band’s strategic plan both identify community health as a priority.

“Our youth is our future,” McKinnon said. “Nakazdli’s donation is an investment in that future.”

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• Guest Editorial

Time to take MSP off life support TOM FLETCHER Black Press

The B.C. Liberal government made a big show of selectively easing Medical Services Plan fees in its budget for the coming election year.

In what is becoming a pattern for Premier Christy Clark, the biggest beneficiaries are single parents. The new MSP is calculated for adults only, so a single parent with two children saves as much as $1,200 a year.

Premium assistance is expanded, with discounts for single people making up to $42,000, rather than $30,000. But for singles, couples and seniors who don’t qualify for discounts, the rate is going up another four per cent effective Jan. 1, 2017.

Indeed, with population growth, the finance ministry expects its take from MSP premiums to rise every year, reaching $2.5 billion in the coming years.

MSP revenue covers about 17 per cent of B.C.’s health budget, and Clark and Finance Minister Mike de Jong insist that Canada’s only direct health care charge is a vital signal to people that health care isn’t free.

This argument has failed.

One seldom-discussed fact is that for half of the people charged MSP, it’s paid by their employers.

In private sector terms it’s a hefty payroll tax, creating one more obstacle for businesses to hire full-time staff with benefits.

So most full-time employees don’t receive this supposedly vital signal, unless they get laid off because their employer is losing money.

Also note that politicians and public sector employees have never paid MSP premiums. Their employers, taxpayers, pick up the tab for them.

People who have to pay out of pocket are what the bureaucracy calls “pay direct accounts.” Jordan Bateman of the Canadian Taxpayers’ Federation recently revealed that nearly 400,000 of these accounts are currently in arrears by more than 30 days, owing a grand total of $457 million.

Of course this is Canada, so even if you

Look for us online at : caledoniacourier.com

haven’t paid or even registered for MSP, you still get treatment at the hospital. Another potential signal lost in the noise.

For people who lose their jobs, MSP is like being kicked when they are down. Their employer stops paying, and the slow-moving bureaucracy charges them based on their income from the previous year.

There was a fuss in 2004 after the B.C. Liberals contracted out MSP administration to a Virginia-based back-office specialist, delightfully named Maximus Corporation.

Now Maximus goes after delinquent MSP accounts with collection agency tactics, and attempts to keep up with the comings and goings from other provinces and countries.

Opposition parties decry the continued inequity of the MSP premium system, which charges the same for a single person making $45,000 or $450,000 a year.

NDP leader John Horgan rails about in-

equality and accuses Clark of using MSP revenues to establish her prosperity “slush fund,” but he stops short of calling for the elimination of MSP premiums.

One would expect the NDP to lead another “axe the tax” campaign, as they did with the carbon tax and the HST, but they aren’t. Perhaps this is because workers for this unnecessary Maximus machine remain members of the B.C. Government and Service Employees’ Union.

Green Party leader Andrew Weaver has it right. He staged a popular petition drive to roll MSP premiums into income tax. If the government wants to send a message, it can interrupt its continuous “Jobs Plan” advertising.

Scrapping MSP and raising income tax rates on higher brackets to compensate would fix the private sector payroll deterrent, make salaried employees (including me) pay their share, and end a tax break for the wealthy.

Don’t hold your breath.

Tom Fletcher is B.C. legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press.

Email: tfletcher@blackpress.ca Twitter: @tomfletcherbc

E-mail us at : newsroom@caledoniacourier.com

Caledonia Courier Wednesday, February 24, 2016

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NEWS Spring 2016: set to rank as one of Courier

the warmest on record BARBARA LATKOWSKI Caledonia Courier

In Fort St. James, this winter may seem unusually mild, warm and even considered balmy.

It’s not like previous winters according to those who have grown up in the Fort.

From Murray Ridge Ski Hill facing unpredictable conditions and cancellations to logging trucks having to change schedules, this winter season is proving to be not really much of a winter at all.

Some might prefer the warmer weather.

But for many in the Fort, they are accustomed to a winter with minus 30 temperatures being the norm and Stuart Lake freezing over by November.

Typically, this is what’s expected in Fort St. James.

But, with above zero temperatures Despite the warmer conditions, here is winter at its best on Lake Stuart, Fort St. being the norm this year, what can be James. expected this spring in the Fort?

According to AccuWeather Global result, Canada is set to experience warm- of high pressure will keep much of the region, including Calgary and Edmonton, Weather Centre, spring of 2016 may rank er-than-usual spring weather.

AccuWeather says this will be the case drier than usual and the main storm track in the top 10 warmest on record for Canafor much of Canada this year with the exwill detour north into Alaska. da as a whole. ception of areas from northern Quebec A lack of snow cover across the SouthThe season is expected to have an early through to Labrador.

Colder weather will western Prairie region is set to accelerate start across much of the country due to El develop due to a prevailing northwesterly the warmup for cities like Regina and SasNino’s influence. fl ow of cold air originating over the icekatoon this spring.

El Nino is defined by above-normal Despite drier and warmer weather, ski ocean water temperatures in the central covered Hudson Bay. In Western Canada, a persistent area conditions this spring will be very good and eastern Pacific, near the equator. As a

for most of B.C. and Alberta due to a deep snowpack bringing good news to resorts such as Whistler and Lake Louise.

According to AccuWeather, the east, the primary storm track this spring will run from the southern United States then up into Atlantic Canada. This will lead to a continuation of stormy conditions, especially from Nova Scotia and into Newfoundland in April.

Most of Ontario including southern Quebec will be drier this spring.

These drier conditions will lead to some warm weather early in the season.

From the southern Prairies to Ontario, the warmer weather will cause the severe thunderstorm season to begin much earlier than usual.

For more information regarding weather in Fort St. James and beyond visit: www.accuweather.com

En Pointe Dance Studio: ready for recital BARBARA LATKOWSKI Caledonia Courier

Dancers have been busily rehearsing and they are now ready for their grand performance.

The recital will be held on Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. in the old Fort St. James Secondary High school gym.

The entire studio of about 65 dancers from primary to competitive will be showcasing their talents.

Ages range from 3-17- years-old.

According to Katelynn Garden, owner of En Pointe, the recital will include solos, trios and group dances.

“There will be a

little bit of everything,” Garden said. “There will be a variety including ballet, contemporary and hip hop.”

En Pointe opened its doors on Sept. 30, 2013. Garden is excited for this year’s recital as there are many first time performers.

“It’s great because it’s one of the only outlets for kids to do performances,” Garden says.

The recital is part of the Fort St. James Winterfest this year and is a fundraiser for the dance studio’s Parental Advisory Committee who normally cover the costume costs for recreational students.

“It’s going to be an exciting recital,” Gar-

den said. “The competitive dancers will be performing their dances for the first time.

These dances are the

ones they will be performing at the Prince George Dance Festival on March 12-18. They are the returning re-

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gional champions this year.”

“And for all of the first time performers, we are so excited for them.”

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En Pointe Dance Studio: year end dance recital in June, 2015.

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Photo submitted by Katelynn Garden

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Wednesday, February 24, 2016 Caledonia Courier

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JOIN THE MOVEMENT AGAINST BULLYING ON FEBRUARY 24

Recognizing cyberbullying Before social media became so prevalent, instances of bullying were somewhat easy to recognize.

However, with a good majority of children now engaged in digital networking and social media, bullying may not end with the ringing of the school bell, and evidence of bullying may not be so readily apparent.

According to Cyberbullying statistics from the i-SAFE foundation, more than half of adolescents and teens have been bullied online, and about the same number have engaged in cyberbullying. More than 80 percent of teens use a mobile phone regularly, making it the most popular form of technology and a common medium for repeated cyberbullying.

Cyberbullying takes place through electronic technology and differs from traditional forms of bullying. Cyberbullying can occur via text messaging, blogging, updates to social media sites and/or phone conversations. What makes cyberbullying more difficult to detect and remedy than traditional bullying is that sometimes this type of bullying is veiled in secrecy.

Those who engage in cyberbullying can create aliases and accounts under false names, allowing them to covertly engage in bullying behavior. As a result, tracking down bullies can be challenging.

Although cyberbullying is on the

rise, there are some things that parents and children can do to help put a stop to such unfortunate instances. * Parents who feel their child is not emotionally ready for the responsibility of a digital device can hold back on purchasing a smartphone or choose one with very limited features. Some schools set strict limits on phone usage at school, and children who go only from school to home and vice versa may not have the need for an “emergency phone” that can open up a window for trouble. * Adolescents and teens should feel comfortable talking with their parents without the fear of reprimand.

Otherwise, they may hide instances of cyberbullying or not know how to broach sensitive topics like bullying. Parents can engage in conversation with their children often and stress that the doors of communication are always open. * Teens should be made aware that cyberbullying is a very real occurrence and is not just other kids “having fun” or “joking.” If behavior is repetitive and hurtful, it should be made public and addressed. * Parents can monitor and limit

their children’s personal accounts.

Some smartphone and tablet applications can be mirrored on the main account, enabling parents to see incoming text or video messages. * A laptop or desktop computer should be placed in a shared space so that usage can be monitored.

Parents can restrict tablet or smartphone usage to public areas. * When online, children should be advised not to share personal information. Social media sites may be used by bullies to gather sensitive information about a person that can be used against them at a later time. Children should be urged to keep passwords secret and to never give information such as birthdays, phone numbers and addresses to people who aren’t close friends. Friend lists should be restricted to only those people students interact with frequently to minimize the chance for bullying or other inappropriate behavior. * Teens who have been bullied can keep evidence of the bullying and may benefit from talking with a counselor.

Cyberbullying is a growing concern for educators and parents and has far-reaching implications.

Getting smart about this phenomenon can help staunch new cases of online bullying.

Adults should remain diligent in monitoring what kids are doing online. Bullying can take place through digital devices, such as mobile phones.

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Caledonia Courier Wednesday, February 24, 2016

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NEWS

Ski and board competitors compete at Zones: now off to provincials “We are very proud of them and their success...”

BARBARA LATKOWSKI Caledonia Courier

The Fort St. James Secondary School Ski and Board Team competed at Zones in Jasper, Alberta on Feb. 8-9.

Of the 28 student athletes who competed, 21 have qualified for the Provincials in Fernie, B.C. on Feb. 28-March 2.

According to head coach, Sarah Grill, Fort St. James Secondary was the only school in their zone, spanning from Smithers to McBride, to have all four teams qualify for the provincials.

“We are very proud of them and their success can be attributed to their sheer determination and commitment to the team and training time,” Grill said.

“And we would like to thank our great community and our local hill,

Murray Ridge, for their continued support.”

Placings from Zones: Girls Snowboarding: Team event: 1st Individual event: 1st place – Kaylee Walstom 2nd place – Orrie Leon Boys Snowboarding: Team event: 3rd Individual event: 2nd place – Ayden Leon Girls Skiing: Team event: 2nd Individual event: 3rd place – Gabriela Willick Boys Skiing: Team event: 1st Individual Event: 2nd place – Ayden Leon 3rd place – Landon Thompson

1st Place Girls Snowboarder team event (back left to front) Orrie Leon, Mara Martin, Gabriela Willick, Kaylee Walstrom, Sierra McNeill, Minna Jones

3rd Place Boys Snowboarding Team Event, (left to Right) Ayden Leon, Dallen Olund, Oscar Croucher, Joey Saharchuk

1st place individual Girl Snowboarder, Kaylee Walstrom (middle) and 2nd place individual Girl Snowboarder, Orrie Leon (left)

2nd Place Girls Skiing Team Event, (top left-right) Quintanna Paziuk, Gabriela Hillock, Ella Davis, Emma Kossey, Tessa Knight, Jaynee Gauthier, - Missing from photo Jaya Samra

3rd place individual Girls Skiing, (right) Gabriela Willick

2nd Place Individual Boys Snowboarder (left) Ayden Leon

Photos submitted by Sarah Grill

1st placed Boy Ski Team Event, (top left-Right) Landon Thompson, Jeff Boschman, Ayden Leon, David Goerz, Jayden Greenaway, Nathan Johnson

2nd place Individual boy Skiing (left) Ayden Leon, 3rd place Landon Thompson (right)

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NEWS

The Festival of the Performing Arts is almost here BARBARA LATKOWSKI Caledonia Courier

The 38th annual Festival of the Performing Arts is on its way.

The festival will be held on March 7-20, 2016 at the Nechako Valley Senior Secondary School.

Norma Hoy is a piano teacher in Fort St. James.

“It’s such a great opportunity for kids here in Fort St. James. There’s lots of talent here, so what better way to show it off,” she said.

Students can enter three different categories.

Dr. Stephen Smith, Piano Adjudicator Listeners, critics, and audience members know Stephen Smith as “a sensitive and dynamic performer” with a “highly poetic touch” and “superb musicianship which illuminates everything he plays.” Simon Carrington (one of the founding members of the Kings Singers) has called Smith “a magnificent pianist,” saying, “It’s a privilege to hear such beautiful playing!”

And renowned pianist Jane Coop has called her former student “an extremely intelligent and perceptive musician who has great facility and strength in his technique. His performances are fascinating programmatically and intriguing musically. He is dynamic and exciting on stage, with a compelling, ppersuasive temperament.” m Dr. Smith grew up iin rural Nova Scottia, where he sang and played the piano from an early age.

After initial studies in A hhis home province in bboth piano and organ, hhe attended the Royal Northern College of N Music in Manchester, England. While there he participated in national and international competitions, and won numerous awards and distinctions. Since 1990, Stephen has lived in Vancouver, obtaining his doctoral degree in piano performance from the University of British Columbia, and contributing to the musical life of the city as a performer, teacher, conductor, arranger and composer.

His wide-ranging musical experience extends from working with church and community choirs, through teaching piano and theory to students of all ages and at all levels, to giving solo and chamber music performances and working regularly with some of Vancouver’s finest professional ensembles, including the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and Vancouver Chamber Choir.

Smith is also a published composer who has been commissioned by the CBC, the National Youth Choir, and the BC Choral Federation, among many others, and whose choral music is frequently recorded and performed across North America and beyond. His work as both pianist and composer can be heard on dozens of CDs in commercial release, including a solo disc of classical piano miniatures entitled Kaleidoscope, available on iTunes.

As a teacher, his special interests include: the production of a seamless cantabile line; attaining brilliance, evenness, and clarity through finger strength and independence; and helping students to self-diagnose technical problems and solve them by applying appropriate practice techniques. Analytical and historical specialties include the music of Bach, Brahms, and Schumann.

Those playing piano will perform March 14-17, speech arts will be held on March 7 and strings on March 11.

Awards will be given in all categories.

A piano workshop will be offered on March 15 at 7:30 p.m.

And the festival will wrap up with a Spring Arts Gala Concert on Sunday, March 20 at 2:30 p.m.

To view the festival syllabus and for more information view: www.musicfestivalweb/nechako Here are the festival adjudicators:

Simone Hug, Strings Adjudicator

Simone Hug was born in December 1979 in a small town in East Germany. She started playing the violin just before she turned 8. At the age of 11 Simone was invited to attend the “Musikgymnasium Schloss Belvedere”/” Franz Liszt” Music Conservatory in Weimar, where she spend the next 13 years of her life. During that time Simone followed the path of an orchestra and singer/songwriter career and enjoyed participating in numerous concerts & competitions in many different places around the world.

Smithers became Simone’s new home in 2004, where she lives and works as a homeopath and a violin teacher.

Simone teaches intuitively according to each being’s unique way of learning and believes in music as a gift to share with the world in an uncompetitive way.

The Festival of the Performing Arts March 7-20 NVSS Vanderhoof

Christina Rodgers, ARCT, Speech Arts Adjudicator Christina Rogers has been a speech arts and voice enthusiast for over 20 years. She holds an ARCT in speech arts from the Royal Conservatory of Toronto where she received the Florence Memorial Scholarship and gold medal for the highest mark in Canada. She has also completed exams with Trinity College, and spent several years teaching at the wellrespected Speech Arts Studio in Edmonton AB and then later in Northern BC where she started the Stewart Speech Arts Festival and has been teaching around 40 students in Terrace, BC. While in her youth, Christina began studying with esteemed speech arts coach Shirley Konrad and multiple voice instructors, winning

numerous awards including the best overall speech award four different times, the best overall voice award, the Telus Scholarship and first place at the provincial level.

Christina spent years training in dance, and because of her diverse theatre skills especially enjoys coaching musical theatre solos. Christina finds

great joy in teaching, adjudicating, composing, and writing. She currently works with groups and private students in Northern BC, with students placing at the provincial level and winning RCM gold medals. She has recently moved to Prince George where she now resides with her husband and three children.

Community Events Community Events are free of charge as they are sponsored by the Caledonia Courier COMING EVENTS...

Will appear as space is available, free of charge in this section.

Coming events are available to non-profit organizations only. This area is not intended for thank you submissions or selling products.

It is simply a place for nonprofit organizations a place to announce upcoming free activities. You can e-mail your item to advertising@ ominecaexpress.com or by fax: 567-2070. Your organizations’ announcement can also be dropped off at our office located at #111250 Stuart Drive, Fort St. James.

Decision of the publisher is final. *** Holy Trinity Anglican Church are holding their Prime Rib Dinner on Friday, Feb 26 at the Evelyn Hall from 5-8pm. Accompanied by roast potatoes, yorkshire puds and veggies. All are welcome! *** We are looking forward to the 38TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF THE PERFORMING ARTS!...

Dates are March 7- 20, 2016 and will be held at Nechako Valley Secondary School.

Monday March 7, Speech Arts. Friday March 11, Strings. Monday March 14- Thursday March 17, Piano.

Please check the website at www. musicfestivalweb.com/nechako for program details *** MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTIONS ADVISORY COMMITTEE... advocating for better services in our communities, such as: housing, counseling, education and job opportunities.

Meetings held on the second Thursday of each month via – video conferencing from the communities of; Burns Lake, Fraser Lake, Granisle, Ft. St. James, Southside and Vanderhoof.

1:30 – 3:00. In Vanderhoof meetings are held in the boardroom at the hospital. Clients, family members and community partners are invited to attend. Your

voice is IMPORTANT. For more info on the committee and it’s works contact: Heather @ 250692-7500. Or your Mental Health Service Provider *** VOLUNTEER WITHIN YOUR COMMUNITY!...Are you or anyone you know interested in becoming a volunteer? No matter your age or your interests, there are plenty of opportunities for you or your family members to volunteer within our community. At Volunteer Fort St. James we assist local non-profit organizations in recruiting volunteers and assist volunteers to find an organization(s) they want to work with. If you chose to become a volunteer you are in control.

You get to choose the event(s) you volunteer for, how often you volunteer and how much time you’d like to volunteer. Volunteers are not obligated to volunteer for any opportunities, no questions asked. It is as simple as that! If you’d like to become a volunteer, when opportunities become available you have the option to be notified by email, or you can check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/volunteerfsj or stop by the Volunteer Fort St. James Office Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11:30 – 12:30 pm.

You can sign up today to become a volunteer at www.volunteerfsj. ca. For more information you can e-mail us at volunteerfsj@telus. net or call us at 250-996-8284 (Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 11:30 – 12:30 pm). *** STUART LAKE OUTREACH GROUP FOOD BANK SCHEDULE... is the third Wed of each month: 10:00 am to noon at the Food Bank behind St. Patrick’s Anglican Church, Stuart Drive. Volunteers needed. Call 250-567-6744.

Food Bank needs canned meals, beans, stews, soups, tuna, salmon, sandwich meats, pasta and sauce,

tea, coffee, toilet paper, canned milk, cereals, etc. At this time we have lots of sugar! Thank you for your generosity. *** UNTOLD TRAUMA...author seeks contributions from nonFirst Nations students and staff who experienced Catholic residential or day schools abuse in Northern BC. For more info email Kathyhansen1@gmail.com *** FIREWEED STOPPING THE VIOLENCE & OUTREACH SERVICE For those who believe all is possible!...Provides free Confidential, Safe, and Supportive counselling and outreach services for women. Hours of Service: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and every other Friday. Location: Room 203, 349 Stuart Drive, Fort St James, BC Phone: (250) 9961214 Fax: (250) 996-7647 Email: fire.or@telus.net *** STUART LAKE OUTREACH GROUP... hosts a free hot lunch each Tuesday from 10.00am to 1.00pm in the space behind St. Patrick’s Anglican Church. Meals are served by members of area churches and other volunteers from the community. We wish to thank all those who assist by cooking, serving, and cleaning up. Your help is invaluable. We also host a free Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day to all who are lonely or in need. Volunteers for these programs are needed. Please call Gwen at 250-567-6744. *** FORT ST. JAMES SEARCH & RESCUE... New members are welcome, training is provided for more information please contact Paul at 250-996-7478 or Rod at 250-996-3231 *** FORT ST. JAMES PUBLIC LIBRARY HOURS...

Tuesday 11:30-8:00 Wednesday 11:30-4:30

Thursday 11:30-4:30 Friday 11:30-8:00 Saturday 11:00-3:00 *** AUXILIARY TO STUART LAKE HOSPITAL... Monthly meeting 2nd Wednesday each month. Hospital Cafeteria 7:00 p.m. *** NECHAKO VALLEY COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY...Child and Youth Mental Health and Counseling Services available at no cost.

Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Call 996-7645 for appointment. *** FORT TRAP AND HANDGUN CLUB... meets last Sunday of every month. Contact (Sue) at 250-996-7728 (h) for more information. *** MUSIC MAKERS...New members always WELCOME. Not everyone has to be on stage, there is lots of work behind the scenes.

Call Heike Fonda at 250-996-7006 for more info. *** PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT...If you know anyone, including a child, who has been abused or harmed by a psychiatrist call the Citizens Commission on Human Rights at: 1-800-670-2247. *** AA MEETINGS...Thursdays at 8:00pm. United Church on 2nd Ave West. Call 250-996-8290 for more information. *** FIREWEED SAFE HAVEN...a safe place for women and their children leaving violence or abuse.

24 hour access - please call 996-8000. *** FORT ST. JAMES PARENT ADVISORY...3rd Tuesday every month 7 p.m. at High School.

Caledonia Courier Wednesday, February 24, 2016

www.caledoniacourier.com A9

NEWS

Courier The KEY: Garage sale aims to keep community connected BARBARA LATKOWSKI Caledonia Courier

It was a sunny spring like day on Feb. 19.

Outside of The KEY in Fort St. James, volunteers busily prepared tables filled with donations of household items and clothing.

The garage sale brought in a good crowd according to Bernice Wilkes, support worker at The Key. “We made about $800 today,” Wilkes said.

The KEY is a resource centre that continues to connect people through education and training offering essential skills in health, employment, life and literacy outreach services.

The centre is open three days a week and continues to bring in about 50-60 people a day from families, teens and elders.

This was the first garage sale The KEY has held to help support the centre and more are planned in the future according to Wilkes.

“It was a good day,” Wilkes said. “We are looking forward to the next one.”

Volunteer Michaeline Sam (left) and Bernice Wilkes, (right) support worker at The KEY, packing up after a successful garage sale aimed to help support the centre.

Photo by Barbara Latkowski

New Fire Safety Act aims to modernize fire safety regulations in B.C.

Tykes hockey team.

Photo courtesy of Clarke Action Photography

Northland Tykes Hockey Tournament: a huge success BARBARA LATKOWSKI Caledonia Courier

The Northland Tykes tournament was a huge success and brought out a very supportive crowd to the Fort St. James Forum on Feb. 13 and 14.

Children participating in the tournament were only 5 and 6- years-old.

For many of them, it was their first year playing minor hockey.

“The focus of the tournament is having fun and creating a catalyst for a lifelong love of hockey,” said Christie Hoy, hockey executive for Fort St. James Minor Hockey.

Teams travelled from Vanderhoof,

Fraser Lake, Burns Lake and Prince George to participate and over 80 athletes were welcomed to the Forum.

According to Hoy, everyone played hard and had fun.

Hustler awards were presented to 18 athletes who were recognized for their outstanding energy and efforts.

All participants received a medal, a water bottle and goody bag to help encourage participation in future events such as this.

“As always, the tournament was well supported by the amazing hockey fans of Fort St. James and the generous sponsors,” Hoy said.

VICTORIA - New legislation was tabled today to modernize the regulatory framework for fire safety in British Columbia.

The Fire Safety Act will replace the Fire Services Act, legislation that has not had substantial updates since 1979.

The new act will: * improve fire code compliance monitoring by making it risk-based; * enable local authorities to appoint fire safety personnel to carry out fire inspections, investigations and evacuations; * establish an administrative enforcement model to address non-compliance issues in a more timely and effective manner; and, * shift to a risk-based approach for compliance monitoring in municipalities.

The Fire Safety Act takes into account a full range of feedback received through an extensive consultation process, including ideas generated in previous efforts to update the legislation.

The most recent consultation group included representation from the Union of British Columbia Municipalities, Local Government Management Asso-

ciation, the Fire Chiefs’ Association, Fire Training Officers Association, Fire Prevention Officers Association of BC, Volunteer Fire Fighters’ Association of BC, BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Association, and Wildfire Management Branch.

Minister of State for Emergency Preparedness, Naomi Yamamoto said, “The new act will result in a manageable and streamlined out-of-court enforcement system with administrative penalties aimed at improving compliance. And it will provide local authorities with the power to evacuate or close a building where there is immediate danger to life and/or property. It also streamlines the fire inspection and investigation process. Simply, this new legislation will improve fire safety in B.C.” Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Todd Stone - “The goal of the Fire Safety Act is to modernize the legislation and to make improvements to help ensure the safety of British Columbians. What is under consideration takes into account the collective work of a number of previous efforts to update this legislation - the Fire Services Act

was last updated 20 years ago and these would be the first significant amendments proposed in over three-and-a-half decades.”

Fire Chiefs’ Association of British Columbia president, Timothy Pley - “The Fire Chiefs’ Association of BC applauds the adoption of the new Fire Safety Act. This legislation provides local governments with new and better tools with which they can provide for fire safety within their communities. The adoption of a risk-based model of fire code compliance monitoring will help local governments apply their fire prevention and inspection efforts where the need exists, preventing fires and providing for life safety where the fire risk is highest. Local governments are now empowered to exercise local government authority in mitigating imminent fire risk rather than the older system of referring those concerns to the provincial government for action. Local governments will now be able to take immediate mitigation actions when imminent life safety risks are found. This means safer communities for citizens and for the firefighters serving within those communities.”

Wednesday, February 24, 2016 Caledonia Courier

A10 www.caledoniacourier.com

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Jacqueline May Warren June 11, 1954 – February 14, 2016 Passed away Sunday evening at Stuart Lake Hospital, Fort St James Though the tears of today Are drawn from wells of sorrow, They flow from springs of memories Through which will come your strengths for tomorrow.

Jacki moved from Prince George to Fort St James with parents Gerry and Anne Godard in 1963 and siblings Rick, Gerri (& Jimmy Steves), Darlene, Pat (& Carnie Ludwig), Ken (& Dawn) and Tom (& Silvia).

Married to Archie Warren in 1975 and raised two sons, Jason (& Valeria) and Jared (& Dee); followed by grandsons Logan, Ray and Tima. There will not be a service

School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) P.O. Box 129, Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0 Phone: (250) 567-2284 Fax: (250) 567-4639

STUDENT GROUNDSKEEPERS School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) requires student groundskeepers for summer employment from April 28, 2016, until September 2, 2016, (two in Burns Lake, two in Vanderhoof, one in Fraser Lake and one in Fort St. James). Hours of work will be eight (8) hours per day between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. as determined by the supervisor, Monday to Friday, at a rate of $15.10 per hour.

Preferred Qualifications: • Enrolled in a post-secondary education program and returning in September • Previous experience relevant to the position would be an asset • Competent in the use and care of tools and equipment common to the position • Valid Class 5, BC Driver’s License, unrestricted is desirable • An exemplary driving record as demonstrated by a current driver’s abstract • The ability to perform physically demanding job duties • A current WHMIS certificate Please note: Incumbents who successfully complete this work assignment will be qualified to receive a $1,000 scholarship to a post secondary program of their choice.

Please complete a general application form which is available on the website at: http://www.sd91.bc.ca/ or from the School District Administration Office in Vanderhoof or from any district school.

Donate Today!

Please indicate on the application form the location you are applying for and submit by 4:00 p.m., Wednesday March 2, 2016 to: Human Resources School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) P.O. Box 129 Vanderhoof, BC V0J 3A0 Phone: (250) 567-2284 Fax: (250) 567-4639 Email: cupejobs@sd91.bc.ca

ON THE WEB:

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School District No. 91 (Nechako Lakes) would like to thank all applicants in advance for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

IN LOVING MEMORY www.pwc.com/ca/private Concluding his successful journey We’re through life,proud to join forces LACHMAN DAS Schmitz de Grace with RHB BIRDI joined his parents on February Chartered Accountants PwC Prince George 5th, 2016 at the age of Ĺ? personal and corporate ta[ )ort 6t -aPes 2IÄ&#x;ce )rLda\s

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1aY Pannu Associate nav.pannu@ca.pwc.com His wife and six children joined him in 1976.

Lachman worked at Takla Forest Products :eĹ‚re Ln the oIÄ&#x;ce )rLda\ Many and Canfor Sawmill until his eYer\ retirement. people in the community knew him simply by his last name,“Birdiâ€?.

During his days in Fort St. Š 2016 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an Ontario limited liability partnership. reserved. 5044-02 0116 James, heAll rights enjoyed walks at Cottonwood Park and around the loop. He had a strong passion forMisc history and always enjoyed Services Misc discussions Services over a cup of tea.

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OIL &WOULD LUBE IF YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE HERE GIVE US A CALL: 250-567-9258 NEWSPAPERS Serving Fort St. James and area since 1972 Pam Berger Publisher

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Wednesday, February 24, 2016 Caledonia Courier

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Chester Hiebert: It’s all about community

Chester Hiebert BARBARA LATKOWSKI Caledonia Courier

For Chester Hiebert, It’s all about the volunteers being the backbone of any community.

And in Fort St. James, its people like Hiebert who continue to lend a hand when they can and support the many services and ideas that make this community what it is today.

Besides his full-time position as an online teacher with EBUS, volunteering continues to keep Hiebert busy.

Hiebert acts as the vice-president of the Fort St. James Senior Association.

“This community has such strength in their seniors. They have such important histories to share, so many great ideas and in turn we now have so many great services to offer,” Hiebert said.

“The social gatherings at the daily lunches at the senior’s centre are such a great opportunity for seniors to exchange stories and ideas. It gives them a voice.”

Hiebert also acts as director for the Fort St. James T.V. and Radio Society.

“This service is so valued and priceless to the community,” Hiebert says.

The society provides an eclectic selection of T.V. channels providing a wide cross-section of programming that supports the community.

“It’s a multi-million dollar operation but here in Fort St James, it costs us about $80,000 per year,” Hiebert said. “Nowhere

else can you get 31 channels for $45 a year per household.”

For Hiebert, it’s all about the community and after beginning to volunteer for the society 35 years ago, this still remains his mandate today.

“I remember hearing that if you want to try something new, try it in Fort St, James first. Once they get behind the idea, they make it work,” Hiebert said.

“And it’s so true. There is such strong community support here.”

Hiebert works with the Primary Care Society. He has also served on the Regional District Advisory Council and Community Futures which looks at the economic development of the community.

But for Hiebert, teaching has always been and still is a passion that continues to drive him today.

“I didn’t see myself doing this years ago,” he said. “I spent 27 years in construction before this.”

Hiebert grew up Morden, in south central Manitoba. He was the second youngest of 11 children.

“Both of my parents came from families of 12. They were old fashioned Mennonites but my family had such colourful character,” Hiebert said.

“I was quite a brat when I was younger.

My family nurtured me and kept me inline. I was a handful.”

Having been in construction for a number of years and having gone through a divorce and gaining full custody of his son, Hiebert realized that he wanted change.

At 41 years of age, Hiebert decided to go back to school as a mature student and attended university in Lethbridge, Alberta.

“I had to learn how to study. All I knew was carpentry and mechanics. I wasn’t clever, but I worked hard. I developed a strategy and it worked.”

Hiebert graduated with a business education degree.

Before graduating, Hiebert would spend his summers working in Fort St. James

(From left to right) Chester Hiebert with fellow members from the Fort St. James T.V. and Radio Society, Bob Hughes and Dave Birdi.

Photo by Barbara Latkowski

“My brother John was here,” Hiebert said. “He’s the reason why we ended up moving here.”

“My son loved it because of the wilderness and wildlife.”

Once deciding to move to Fort St. James permanently after graduating from university, Hiebert was offered a job as a shop teacher at Fort St. James Secondary High School.

“I certainly had enough training and being in construction for 27 years, it all worked out,” Hiebert said.

“I love teaching. It’s being able to work with so many personalities and developing that student/teacher relationship. My students learned that they would have a lot of liberty with kindness and respect. Everyone has a good side and this is the foundation of all of my relationships.”

Hiebert taught at the high school for 13 years.

Today, the 67-year-old still keeps busy teaching on-line courses at EBUS. He has been happily married to his wife Gail for 19 years and the couple have two children.

Even after he developed multiple sclerosis years ago, Hiebert is showing no signs of slowing down.

“With MS, it’s important to stay active mentally,” Hiebert says. “It’s like that old saying, use it, or lose it.”

“I have to keep challenging myself. It’s so important to stay sharp. It’s that personal growth that’s so important to me. The ability to grow personally and then from there, being able to develop meaningful relationships.”

John Rustad, MLA Nechako Lakes

Box 421 183 First Street, Vanderhoof Tel: 250-567-6820 Fax: 250-567-6822

Toll Free: 1-877-964-5650 Email: john.rustad.mla@leg.bc.ca Website: www.johnrustadmla.bc.ca