Houston Today, March 16, 2016

FEATURE: International Women’s Day event

COMMUNITY: New Food Market owners

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Council capital budget projects

By Xuyun Zeng Houston Today

Council discussed new expenditures in its capital budget on a March 2 budget meeting.

Machinery replacement

WOMEN’S Day

Council discussed how much to allocate towards the purchase of a new loader.

The District currently has an old Caterpillar IT24 that needs $107,636 in repairs. It has over 8,000 hours clocked, has rust on its panels and centre pins are wearing out, said engineering manager Don Hounsell, who is against repairing the machine.

“We can buy a new machine for $250,000 right now, if council were to accept it and be OK with it, I think the auction process right now is a good way to pick one up inexpensively,” said

Xuyun Zeng/Houston Today

International Women’s Day Committee member Naomi Himech presents Linda Bush with flowers and recognition as this year’s winner of the ‘Most Honorable Woman of the Year.’ More photos and stories on pages 8 and 9.

“

“

“The District currently has an old Caterpillar IT24 that needs $107,636 in repairs.”

Hounsell.

Council could also buy a new machine, which would include warranty.

Hounsell added this will still be within the budget.

Despite not being present, Coun. Rick Lundrigan relayed his opposition to the high budget through chief administrative officer Michael Glavin.

“He’s against this purchase,” said Glavin. “He’s willing to agree to a purchase for a used machine up to $140,000.”

L u n d r i g a n’s See CAPITAL on Page 2

Softwood lumber agreement: standstill period ends in October

By Flavio Nienow Black Press

The 2006 softwood lumber agreement between Canada and the U.S. expired on Oct. 12, 2015.

Under the terms of the agreement, the U.S. is precluded from launching trade action against Canada for

a period of one year after the agreement expires.

So what happens if a deal is not reached before this standstill period ends?

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“Any additional taxes or tariffs will have a negative effect on individual operations in B.C.”

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“Any additional taxes or tariffs will have a negative effect on individual operations in B.C.,” explained Zika. “Depending on market or economic conditions at the time, these additional costs could result in less operation hours or closures of some facilities.”

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NEWS

Houston Today

Softwood lumber issue top priority for federal government LUMBER from Page 1 “The actual negotiations are between the governments of the U.S. and Canada, so there is very little, individual companies can do to influence the outcome,” said Zika.

“It is unfortunate that this trade battle never seems to go away, but I am optimistic that eventually a workable solution will come together,” Hampton Affiliates is officially neutral on this issue since the company has operations on both sides of the border.

According to Harry Nelson, a Professor of Forest Policy and Economics at the University of British Columbia, as the standstill period gets closer to the end, it actually creates more

uncertainty.

“It creates h e i g h t e n e d uncertainty as we get closer because how the deal is structured can create winners and losers by affecting access to the market, where it can change the competitive position of some players relative to others,” he said.

“The expectation is that there will be some type of agreement, simply because we’ve had some kind of agreement in place for so much of the past two and a half decades,” he added.

John Babcock, a Spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada, said the softwood lumber issue is a top priority for the federal government.

Babcock said Canadian minister of

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remain focused on maintaining stable access to the U.S. market for the Canadian softwood lumber industry.”

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-B.C. Premier Christy Clark

lumber, accounting for 55 per cent of Canada’s lumber exports to the U.S. forestry.

“British Columbia’s forest industry is too important to take for granted,” said Clark.

“For lumber producers, and the communities throughout the province that depend on them, we need to avoid an unnecessary trade dispute with our most significant market.”

importance of stability in CanadaU.S. softwood lumber trade to B.C. The province estimates that about 40 per cent of B.C.’s rural communities are dependent on forestry. In fact, B.C. is Canada’s largest producer of softwood

The Canada-U.S. lumber dispute is a long standing issue.

Softwood lumber dispute first arose in 1982 with a complaint by the U.S. lumber industry that low

“British Columbia’s forest industry is too important to take for granted. For lumber producers, and the communities throughout the province that depend on them, we need to avoid an unnecessary trade dispute with our most significant market. ”

as the U.S. trade representative Michael Froman and U.S. secretary of commerce Penny Pritzker.

“We are working constructively with our U.S. partners on a mutually acceptable path forward,” said Babcock. “We

However, in October 2015, B.C. premier Christy Clark said the U.S. had not been willing to discuss renewing or extending the agreement. In a statement in the legislature, Clark said the province has been working with the federal government

CAPITAL from Page 1 comment was met with opposition from senior staff.

Engineering manager Don Hounsell said that sum will only get the District a small machine ill-fitted to their needs, and CAO Glavin does not support limiting staff ’s budget.

“I have a concern

with limiting staff to a particular budget,” he said. “If staff is going out researching a replacement product … if you limit it to $140,000, that really handcuffs us.”

“Do we get garbage, or better garbage?”

The residual value of the loader is $20,000, said Hounsell, citing data

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seeking an extension or renewal of the agreement for the past two years.

She also emphasized the

Softwood lumber agreement

Canadian stumpage rates constituted an unfair advantage.

The 2006 softwood lumber agreement required Canada to put an escalating tax on exports as softwood lumber prices drop below a predetermined threshold. It’s a form of managed trade, designed to limit potential harm to American producers.

The agreement ended five years of litigation and returned $4 billion in duties collected by the U.S. to Canadian producers.

The agreement has also provided improved market certainty for lumber manufacturers in B.C. and Canada, while enabling the province to manage its forest resources and maintain access to the U.S. market.

Council agrees to replace audio system at Community Hall

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Sidewalk replacement Originally an operating budget item, sidewalks slid into the capital budget after the engineering manager proposed that the District replace, rather than repair, damaged sidewalks.

The District will now take out damaged sections and replace them, rather than doing patchwork as they did previously.

“I would not advocate doing what we’ve done in the past, it’s not a very good way to do it,” said Hounsell. The District will allocate $45,000 this year and $50,000 next year on, with a goal of spending that budget on fixing as much as they can.

H o u n s e l l mentioned that the aged infrastructure is causing the District problems such as cracking and unevenness, pointing to the Hagman Crescent sidewalks an example, which would cost over $250,000 to fix completely.

Community Hall upgrades Council discussed the Leisure Services’ request to spend $43,000 on a new projector, screen and audio system, but ended up deciding to upgrade the audio system only.

The District

“

budget, that screen has been dropped once,” said Mayor Shane Brienen.

The mayor expressed his concerns that by buying another projector, the District would have two white elephants.

“Was it determined that moving the one in the arena is not possible? Or they

“...sidewalks slid into the capital budget after the engineering manager proposed that the District replace, rather than repair, damaged sidewalks. ”

currently has $23,000 in its surplus, and would have to find the extra money for these upgrades.

The initial idea was to move the projector from the arena to the community hall, which the mayor has been a proponent of.

“One of my concerns is we have the setup in that arena that we rarely use and I don’t believe since the last

just didn’t figure it was and wanted new stuff ?” asked Coun.

Dawn Potvin.

CAO Glavin replied that it was the latter.

G l a v i n recommended that the projector upgrades be held off and that the audio system get upgraded, as it affects rentals of the hall.

The projected cost will be $30,000, but could be lower.

Houston Today

NEWS

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Sponsorship group sees big leap in donations

By Xuyun Zeng Houston Today

The Houston Group to Sponsor Syrian Refugees has seen a big leap in its donations.

They currently have around $24,000 from various donations and they just need $6,000 more to reach their fundraising goal. The group also has their eyes on sponsoring a family of three.

“The family is from Sadad [in Syria],” said co-chair Bobby Seinen. “Her husband was killed when ISIL attacked the town.

The town is actually about the same size as Houston — 3,500 people. She has two young sons, one five months and one four years.”

“She is a widow, so she is of the most vulnerable, and as far as we know, wants to come to Canada.”

Seinen declined to reveal her name.

The group now has another set of hurdles to face, including getting approval from the federal Citizenship and Immigration Canada for this family to come to Canada.

“Even before that, that family needs the approval of the sponsorship agreement holder,” said Seinen.

“World Renew, which is the one that has the sponsorship agreement holder, needs to accept this family and they will probably not accept her if they deem that family as unacceptable by im-

migration and citizenship.”

Also at the Mar. 8 meeting, Smithersbased Bulkley Valley Refugee Sponsorship Group representative Pauline Mahoney

“

“We spoke about ESL in particular with this family because it is such a small family and it is such a young family, we hope to be able to offer ESL in the home, at least

“The [HGSSR]...just need $6,000 more to reach their fundraising goal.”

came to share her experience.

Seinen said she learned the different aspects of support necessary for a successful sponsorship.

She currently has leads on English as a Second Language (ESL) learning and housing.

initially, until she becomes acquainted with the town,” said Seinen.

Seinen also learned that the two refugee families in Smithers had to go through the shock of moving to a new place.

“They’ve never been out of the coun-

try, our society is very different, there’s all sorts of things that need to be learned, so we just want to be able to offer a safe place and help that family reintegrate into a safe town.”

To continue fundraising, Houston Search and Rescue has offered to put on a pancake breakfast fundraiser in April and the Leisure Facility has offered them twofor-one swimming following the pancake breakfast. They will also have a raffle.

“We will be approaching a limited number of groups to perhaps donate a prize,” said Seinen.

“And we will be applying for our gaming licence for the raffle.”

Wet’suwet’en leaders gather to reconcile

By Alicia Bridges Black Press

Hereditary and elected Wet’suwet’en leaders from Burns Lake, Hagwilget and Moricetown gathered to reconcile differences within the Nation at a meeting in Smithers last week.

The meeting at Hudson Bay Lodge on Friday and Saturday was attended by chiefs and councillors from the Burns Lake Band, Hagwilget Village Council, Moricetown Band, Wet’suwet’en First Nation band, Nee Tahi Buhn Indian Band, Skin Tyee Nation and the Office of the Wet’suwet’en (OW). The gathering, organized by Wet’suwet’en First Nation Chief Karen Ogen, was the first time leaders from the six bands and the OW had come together for several years.

Hereditary Chief Na’Moks, whose English name is John Ridsdale, said the meeting was held to improve communication between groups within the Wet’suwet’en Nation, which he said had been divided by government conduct.

“I believe the way that industry and government have conducted themselves, they put a wedge in

between us and now we have to remove that wedge,” he said.

Although some Wet’suwet’en leaders have disagreed over deals with industry and government, Na’Moks said this meeting was focused on reconciliation. The program included a series of presentations on case law and landmark rulings on First Nations rights and land title.

“It’s a good reminder to everybody that there is case law and communal decision-making,” said Na’Moks.

“If at one point industry or government does want to bring us to court, the fact is if we make a decision as an entire nation then there’s absolutely no foot for them to stand on.”

Moricetown Band Chief Duane Mitchell believed the meeting was a positive first step towards repairing relationships within the Nation.

He said divisions had formed between some groups several years ago, before he was elected as Chief of the Moricetown Band last year.

“It seems like it was two different communities, two different people, but we’re all one, we all have the same language, we’re

all Wet’suwet’en, but this was a good step of coming back,” he said.

Mitchell said it was a relief to see the Nation uniting after years of disagreement.

“We have to do this ourself, we have to fix this ourself so it’s down to our hereditary chiefs, to our elected council and chiefs and to our people so our kids can have an easier time when they take over,” he said.

Hereditary chief

Madeek (Jeff Brown) believes adhering to traditional Wet’suwet’en customs is the best path forward.

“The only way we are going to be able to come to any agreement is through the feast hall,” he said.

“We’re having feasts, but you don’t get everybody at a feast. Sometimes they only go whenever is possible for them to be there but that is our governance.”

The leaders resolved to meet again in other Wet’suwet’en territories to help keep the relationship strong.

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DISTRICT OF HOUSTON www.houston.ca

Developing a

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Community Workshop What needs to be done to make Houston a healthier community? How can a Health and Wellness Charter help support the development of a healthy community?

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Join us for this workshop intended to gather input into a proposed Health and Wellness Charter for the District of Houston. The workshop will ask for your input into recommended priorities and action steps to guide the District of Houston in helping build a healthy community.

Thursday March 17 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm

District of Houston Municipal Office 3367 12th Street, Houston, BC For more information and to register for this event please contact:

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Opinion

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Published by Black Press Ltd. 3232 Hwy 16 W, Upstairs Houston Mall P.O. Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Houston Today

Phone: 250 845-2890 • Fax 250 845-7893 News: editor@houston-today.com or: newsroom@houston-today.com Advertising: advertising@houston-today.com

In our opinion:

Gas relief

I

t’s time for the provincial government to address the home heating inequity faced by natural gas users from Vanderhoof west to the coast.

For years northwestern customers of Pacific Northern Gas have been paying more to heat their homes with natural gas than anywhere else because the large industries which once used the majority of the capacity of the utility’s pipeline have disappeared, leaving the remaining customers to shoulder the entire burden of maintaining the line.

That would have changed had the Douglas Channel LNG project at Kitimat gone ahead because it would have taken up all of that surplus capacity and paid its share accordingly.

With that project now shelved, northwesterners will continue paying delivery rates easily three times what they are elsewhere in B.C. The province has a ready-made tool to deal with this inequity. As part of its revenue-neutral carbon tax policy, the standard $570 homeowner grant currently increases to as much as $770 for northern and rural residents depending upon where they live. It is a partial recognition that they pay more for energy because of where they live.

It would be more than reasonable to increase that amount specifically for northwesterners because of high natural gas delivery rates.

With the May 2017 provincial election not that far away, it is a stance voters should urge candidates to pursue.

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Send letters to: Houston Today, Box 899, Houston, BC, V0J 1Z0. Fax to 250-845-7893 or email to newsroom@houston-today.com

2009 2009 WINNER

Crackdown coming for drivers passing school bus while kids are getting on and off

By Tom Fletcher Black Press

The B.C. government is preparing to increase penalties for drivers who pass school buses while children are getting on or off.

“We’ve had 14 children injured,

“

too many motorists who are not getting the message of just how important it is to slow down in school zones and certainly not pass a school bus when the lights are flashing.”

Stone said school districts and local governments have

past five years, with 14 injuries during that time.

The current B.C. penalty is $167 fine and three demerit points, the same as disobeying a school

crossing guard.

In Ontario, a first offence of passing a school bus results in a fine of $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points, and a second within five years can

result in a fine of up to $4,000 and up to six months in jail.

New Brunswick has a $1,000 fine and loss of driver’s licence for every school bus offence.

“We’ve had 14 children injured, thankfully none killed, in the last five years” - Todd Stone, Transportation Minister

thankfully none killed, in the last five years,” said Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n Minister Todd Stone.

“There are still far

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been calling for increased penalties.

Police in B.C. have issued 1,100 tickets for failing to stop for a school bus for the

File photo

School buses use a hinged stop sign as well as flashing amber and red lights to warn drivers to stop when students are getting on and off.

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Houston Today

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

HOUSTON TODAY “Member, B.C. Press Council” Published by Black Press Upstairs Houston Mall P.O. Box 899, Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z0

Opinion

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Fines are increasing for forest fire violations

By Tom Fletcher Black Press

The pilot of a recreational drone that forced waterbombers from smoke-filled skies around Oliver last summer was never located, but future offenders who impede forest firefighters will

“

are being increased to among the highest in Canada, Forests Minister Steve Thomson said Thursday.

The fine for failing to comply with fire restrictions such as campfire bans will increase from $345 to $1,150. A new penalty of failing to comply

“The fine for failing to comply with fire restrictions such as campfire bans will increase from $345 to $1,150.”

face higher fines.

Fines for 19 offences under the Wildfire Act, including interfering with wildfire protection efforts,

with a stop-work order made because of fire risk will carry a maximum penalty of $100,000 and one year in prison.

T h o m s o n

“

said there are “constitutional” issues with a proposal to seize vehicles from people who toss cigarette butts out the window while driving, but the province is still considering its options.

A proposal to ban people from B.C. parks if they violate campfire restrictions is also being considered, but is not included in the current changes.

Thomson said the legislation will redefine “interference” with firefighters so it doesn’t mean intentional interference.

That would apply to boaters who blocked air tankers from filling with water on Okanagan Lake, as

Wilson’s Mountain Road fire threatens farms and homes in Oliver, August 2015. well as the drone pilot who caused aircraft to land as vineyards, homes and a school around Oliver were threatened by fire.

Oliver Mayor

Ron Hovanes the battle against two fires threatening the community last August were likely due to a recreational drone flown because

“somebody just wanted a closer look.

“It was very hard to drive by the airport and see helicopters quiet on the ground, no bombers in the

B.C. Wildfire Service photo

air, all the while people were clinging to the hope that the fire wouldn’t reach their homes, their businesses,” Hovanes said.

B.C. is a choice destination for down and out

News that the Saskatchewan government gave two young men one-way bus passes to B.C. is the latest sign that B.C. is more than ever the destination of choice for out-ofprovince homeless people.

Housing Minister Rich Coleman shrugged off a report from Saskatchewan that the pair were headed for Victoria, where the province is seeking a court

“...if they decide to come to British Columbia, we’re going to support them in that.”

order to wind down a ragged tent camp that sprang up last fall next to the downtown courthouse.

The camp has

-Premier Christy Clark attracted several people from out of province, as well as those who have camped in local parks for years.

“It’s a free country,” said Coleman, when asked if he had prevailed on other provincial governments to deal with their own cases rather than shipping them west.

He said B.C.’s budget for shelters is up about 20 per cent this winter as the annual winter migration of downand-out people to the province’s mildest climate has swelled.

Some of the extra

“

arrivals are coming from Alberta, where the economy has suffered with the downturn in oil and gas prices.

Saskatchewan social services minister Donna Harpauer issued a statement Wednesday that said front-line social workers are being reminded that clients should have a plan in place “before they are given bus tickets to destinations away.”

Premier Christy Clark said one of the two is described as mentally ill, and taking them in is the Canadian thing to do.

“I don’t know very much about them, but I hope that wherever they are, they are able to get the care that they need,” Clark said.

“And if they decide to come to British Columbia, we’re going to support them in that.”

B.C. Views Tom Fletcher

Minister says assisted living rules to be relaxed

By Tom Fletcher Black Press

Assisted living facilities in B.C. will soon be able to offer more services to seniors and disabled people to stay independent longer.

Health Minister Terry Lake introduced changes Monday that restrict assisted living providers to two of six prescribed

services.

Patients requiring more than two are now required to find space in residential care.

The change removes “arbitrary barriers” that have forced B.C. residents into higher-cost and more restrictive residential care before they need it, said B.C. Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie.

“Assisted living

is a very important housing option for about 22,000 seniors in this province,” Mackenzie said.

“These are your own unit, usually in an apartment-like setting where you can lock the door. You decide who comes in and who you want to keep out, and you’re free to come and go as you wish.”

Daniel Fontaine, CEO of the B.C.

“Assisted living is a very important housing option for about 22,000 seniors in this province.”

Care Providers Association, said the change will be welcomed by seniors who want to stay

-Isobel Mackenzie, B.C. Seniors Advocate as independent as possible.

The association represents 300 non-profit and for-profit operators

of residential care, assisted living and home care services.

Designated services, of which

only two can currently be provided in assisted living, are: • assistance with eating, dressing, personal hygiene and other daily activities •medication management • therapeutic diets • f i n a n c i a l management • i n t e n s i v e rehabilitation therapy • b e h av i o u r a l management

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Discounts vary by model. ~ Visit onstar.ca for coverage maps, details and system limitations. Services and connectivity may vary by model and conditions. OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity is available on select vehicle models and in select markets. Customers will be able to access OnStar services only if they accept the OnStar User Terms and Privacy Statement (including software terms). OnStar acts as a link to existing emergency service providers. After the trial period (if applicable), an active OnStar service plan is required. ‡ Vehicle user interfaces are products of Apple® and Google® and their terms and privacy statements apply. Requires compatible smartphone. Data plan rates apply. ¥ Lease based on a purchase price of $34,192 , including $893 owner cash (tax exclusive), $3,000 manufacturer-to-dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive), and a $1,000 bonus credit for a new eligible 2016 Silverado 1500 Double Cab 4WD 1WT. Bi-weekly payment is $149 for 24 months at 0% APR, on approved credit to qualified retail customers by GM Financial. Annual kilometre limit of 20,000 km, $0.16 per excess kilometre. $995 down payment is required. Payment may vary depending on down payment or trade. Total obligation is $8,723 plus applicable taxes. Option to purchase at lease end is $25,472. Price and total obligation exclude license, insurance, registration, taxes and optional equipment. Other lease options are available. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Limited-time offer, which may not be combined with other offers. See your dealer for conditions and details. General Motors of Canada Company reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. †† Offer applies to eligible current owners or lessees of any model year 1999 or newer car that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six (6) months. Credit valid towards the retail purchase or lease of one eligible 2016 model year Chevrolet car, SUV, crossover and pickups models delivered in Canada between March 1 and March 31, 2016. Credit is a manufacturer to consumer incentive (tax inclusive) and credit value depends on model purchased: $500 credit available on 2016 Chevrolet Sonic, Cruze LTD, Malibu LTD, All-New Malibu (except L), All-New Volt, All-New Camaro, Trax and 2017 Volt; $750 credit available on other 2016 Chevrolets (except Corvette, Colorado 2SA, Silverado Light Duty and Heavy Duty); $1,000 credit available on all 2016 Chevrolet Silverado’s. Offer is transferable to a family member living within the same household (proof of address required). As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation and contact General Motors of Canada Company to verify eligibility. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Certain limitations or conditions apply. Void where prohibited. See your GM Canada dealer for details. GM Canada reserves the right to amend or terminate offers for any reason in whole or in part at any time without prior notice. > Purchase price applies to new 2016 Chevrolet Colorado Extended Cab Base models at participating dealers in Canada. Purchase price of $23,115 includes Freight but excludes license, insurance, registration, dealer fees and taxes. Dealer may sell for less. Offer may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. GM Canada may modify, extend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without notice. See dealer for details. ¥¥ Based on GM testing in accordance with Government of Canada approved test methods. Refer to vehicles.nrcan.gc.ca for details. Your actual fuel consumption may vary. Excludes other GM vehicles. Colorado: 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with available Duramax 2.8L Turbo-Diesel fuel consumption based on GM testing in accordance with Government of Canada approved test methods. Refer to vehicles.nrcan.gc.ca for details. Your actual fuel consumption may vary. Excludes other GM vehicles. ^ Horsepower: Comparison based on wardsauto.com 2015 Small Pickup segment and latest competitive information available at time of posting. Excludes other GM vehicles. Towing: Requires available Duramax 2.8L Turbo-Diesel engine. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow. Payload: Requires Crew Cab Short Box 2WD model with available V6 engine.

For comparison purposes only. See the Owner’s Manual and the label on the vehicle door jamb for the carrying capacity of a specific vehicle. + Silverado 1500 LTZ 2WD Double Cab Standard Box or Crew Cab Short Box LTZ 2WD with the available 6.2L V8 engine and Max Trailering Package. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow. Based on WardsAuto.com 2015 Large Pickup segment and latest available competitive information at time of posting. Excludes other GM vehicles. Colorado: Requires available Duramax 2.8L Turbo-Diesel engine. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow. ++ Silverado: with available 6.2L V8 engine. Colorado: comparison based on wardsauto.com 2015 Small Pickup segment and latest competitive information available at time of posting. Excludes other GM vehicles. ** The 2-Year Scheduled Lube-Oil-Filter Maintenance Program provides eligible customers in Canada, who have purchased or leased a new eligible 2016 MY Chevrolet (excluding Spark EV), with an ACDelco® oil and filter change, in accordance with the oil life monitoring system and the Owner’s Manual, for 2 years or 48,000 km, whichever occurs first, with a limit of four (4) Lube-Oil-Filter services in total, performed at participating GM dealers. Fluid top offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc. are not covered. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. General Motors of Canada Company reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. Additional conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details. ^^ Whichever comes first. See dealer for details.

6

NEWS

www.houston-today.com

By Xuyun Zeng

Houston Today

Police would like to remind the public about telephone scams.

Houston RCMP d e t a c h m e n t commander Sgt. Stephen Rose said he has received reports on this problem.

The scam starts with a proposal where a person receives a call from a

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

private number with a purpose purporting to be from the police or the Canadian Revenue Agency.

“We’ve had just another series of these fraud complaints where people are being contacted and being asked for personal information or banking information by phone,” he said.

Sgt. Rose added that the CRA does

$

• • • •

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not solicit clients to pay debts and they don’t put timelines on it by phone or seek identifying information by phone “And they don’t threaten clients that if they don’t pay their outstanding tax debt that they are going to get the police to come and arrest them,” he added.

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Police report: police say be mindful of telephone scams custody until she was sober, then released her without charges. *** On March 8, police received an arrest warrant for a woman, bound by court order conditions from a Houston file.

The woman no longer resides here and efforts are underway to arrest her in the Smithers jurisdiction.

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Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

SPORTS PHOTO FEATURE

Houston Figure Skating Carnival Dress rehearsal was held last Friday for the upcoming Houston Figure Skating Club carnival. The big event titled ‘Viva Las Vegas’ is planned for this coming Friday, March 18th and Saturday, March 19th. Details are on this page in the poster.

Photos by Corinne Chaffer

Houston Figure Skating Club presents

a v i V Friday, March 18th at 7:00 pm & Saturday, March 19th at 2:00 pm Claude Parish Memorial Arena

Tickets are available at the door • Adults: $7 • Family up to 5: $20 • Children: 4-17 $5 • 3 years and under: free • Seniors: $5

7

8

www.houston-today.com

COMMUNITY FEATURE

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Houston Today

Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

9

Houston celebrates International Women’s Day - Tuesday, March 8th, 2016

Women’s Wrestling Olympic Gold Medalist Carol Huynh in Houston

By Xuyun Zeng Houston Today

Wrestling Olympics medalist Carol Huynh graced the International Women’s Day event at the Seniors Centre March 8, sharing her story of how she fought to participate in women’s wrestling Early in her wrestling career, Huynh said, she faced many obstacles getting into the male-dominated sport. She attributes her success to inspirational women she met along the way as well as men who fought the status quo.

“It really got me thinking though, about all those fierce women that came before me, that battle against chauvinism, and fought for their right to be on the mats,” she said. “I also thought of the men that ignored those naysayers and helped to develop women’s wrestling, because without them, I wouldn’t have the opportunity to live my dream, to compete for my country at the Olympics Games.”

“We all have a part to play in the future of girls everywhere, however big or small a part that may be, whether you are male ... or female, whether you’re young, or the young at heart,” she said.

She pointed to some of her inspirations, including her hometown’s mayor, Hazelton’s Alice Maitland. She also found strength from within her family.

“My mom is an amazing person, super cute ... very positive, she’s wise and she’s tough as nails,” she said. “My mother, especially, supported and encouraged me in all different endeavours.”

Her “strong-willed and fierce” elder sister also pushed for gender parity at home.

“My dad was very traditional when I was growing up, and he didn’t let his girls do all that much, and his boys had a little more freedom for them, so that really irked my sister,” said Huynh. “She really fought for her right to do this or that ... but I would see that.”

That sister also participated in wrestling, which became the inspiration for Huynh. She met Joe Sullivan, a women’s wres-

“

Linda Bush chosen as 2015 “Most Honourable Woman”

By Xuyun Zeng Houston Today

“It really got me thinking though, about all those fierce women that came before me,”

Linda Bush was picked for this year’s Most Honourable Women award.

Nominees Debbie Smith, Chao Lee, Naomi Himech and Linda Bush were named at the International Women’s Day event March 8. Bush won it with Sue Jones’ nomination.

The nomination lauded Bush for her contributions to Houston by empowering people and ensuring equality.

“Linda stepped down from the board of directors of Houston Link to Learning after volunteering for well over 15 years for this organization, needless to say her retirement was well deserved,” the nomination read.

“Linda was a constant, quiet, peaceful, not reticent in anyway but a steady strength guiding, leading, advising staff and the board through challenges, helping us to understand the multitude of aspects of literacy, about how many people continue to benefit from Houston Link to Learning because of

- Carol Huynh

tling coach and advocate.

She found her calling and went to wrestle for Simon Fraser University, where she met Mike Jones.

“He was a force in promoting women’s wrestling throughout B.C.,” she said.

“He supported the women on our team even though the university itself didn’t even recognize us as a team.”

Huynh said Jones was crucial in propelling her forward by believing in her, and sending her to international competitions and training camps.

Her SFU teammates also became integral to pushing for an ideological change at the university.

“They made sure that they were working as hard or harder than the men, because they knew that they had something to prove. They knew that there was a ton of people out there that looked at women’s wrestling and thought, ‘You guys don’t belong here.’ ” Over time, Huynh has seen advances in gender parity in sport. She points towards the Olympics’ having a Women in Sport Commission and having greater inclusion of women into executive boards. She also lauds United World Wrestling, amateur wrestling’s governing body, for having a president that promotes women’s wrestling.

Xuyun Zeng photos/Houston Today

Top right: Event guest speaker Carol Huynh with committee member Naomi Himech. Below in the middle wrestling coach Don Roy told the group about the sport of wrestling and bottom right is guest speak Carol Huynh with Lynn Morgan. At the bottom left Carol Huynh spoke to a crowd of over 100 guests at the sixth annual International Women’s Day observance in Houston.

Xuyun Zeng photos/Houston Today

At the top Linda Bush with her bouquet for the title of “2015 Most Honourable Woman”. At the bottom right are Linda Bush, Committee organizer Naomi Himech and Sue Jones who nominated Linda Bush for the title. And at the bottom left are Bunny Timms and Ann Vandenhoek, who received recognition for the two oldest members of the Houston Seniors Aquafit group.

“

“Literacy training is a fundamental necessity to our community.

‘Continue to fight for it, don’t give up’ is her motto.”

our time and commitment.

“She stayed in touch with learners, paying attention to where resources would be best spent, she guided us to never give up, she worked hard to create lasting partnerships with other community resource groups.

“Literacy training is a fundamental necessity to our community. ‘Continue to fight for it, don’t give up’ is her motto.

“Community services and hospice also received her attention, again at the heart of where charity energy time was needed

the most. At the provincial level, whenever there is a police incident now, and a third-party ombudsman is brought forth, we have Linda to thank.”

Bush has campaigned for police accountability after her son, Ian, was shot by police in 2005, which was a catalyst for the IIO’s formation, according to Bush.

She hopes that the RCMP will spend more money on training for police, and employ body cameras.

In Bush’s speech, she said she always felt a calling for serving the community.

“I’d like to throw out Sue, but thank you to everyone else,” she joked. “I do get really busy, I am one of those people that, it’s not so much that I can’t say no, it’s just if I see something that needs to be done, I just get in there and first thing I know, I’m up to my ears.”

“But most of the time I really enjoy it.”

Bush currently works for the Houston Retirement Housing Society and works on the advisory committee on the Independent Investigation Office.

8

www.houston-today.com

COMMUNITY FEATURE

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Houston Today

Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

9

Houston celebrates International Women’s Day - Tuesday, March 8th, 2016

Women’s Wrestling Olympic Gold Medalist Carol Huynh in Houston

By Xuyun Zeng Houston Today

Wrestling Olympics medalist Carol Huynh graced the International Women’s Day event at the Seniors Centre March 8, sharing her story of how she fought to participate in women’s wrestling Early in her wrestling career, Huynh said, she faced many obstacles getting into the male-dominated sport. She attributes her success to inspirational women she met along the way as well as men who fought the status quo.

“It really got me thinking though, about all those fierce women that came before me, that battle against chauvinism, and fought for their right to be on the mats,” she said. “I also thought of the men that ignored those naysayers and helped to develop women’s wrestling, because without them, I wouldn’t have the opportunity to live my dream, to compete for my country at the Olympics Games.”

“We all have a part to play in the future of girls everywhere, however big or small a part that may be, whether you are male ... or female, whether you’re young, or the young at heart,” she said.

She pointed to some of her inspirations, including her hometown’s mayor, Hazelton’s Alice Maitland. She also found strength from within her family.

“My mom is an amazing person, super cute ... very positive, she’s wise and she’s tough as nails,” she said. “My mother, especially, supported and encouraged me in all different endeavours.”

Her “strong-willed and fierce” elder sister also pushed for gender parity at home.

“My dad was very traditional when I was growing up, and he didn’t let his girls do all that much, and his boys had a little more freedom for them, so that really irked my sister,” said Huynh. “She really fought for her right to do this or that ... but I would see that.”

That sister also participated in wrestling, which became the inspiration for Huynh. She met Joe Sullivan, a women’s wres-

“

Linda Bush chosen as 2015 “Most Honourable Woman”

By Xuyun Zeng Houston Today

“It really got me thinking though, about all those fierce women that came before me,”

Linda Bush was picked for this year’s Most Honourable Women award.

Nominees Debbie Smith, Chao Lee, Naomi Himech and Linda Bush were named at the International Women’s Day event March 8. Bush won it with Sue Jones’ nomination.

The nomination lauded Bush for her contributions to Houston by empowering people and ensuring equality.

“Linda stepped down from the board of directors of Houston Link to Learning after volunteering for well over 15 years for this organization, needless to say her retirement was well deserved,” the nomination read.

“Linda was a constant, quiet, peaceful, not reticent in anyway but a steady strength guiding, leading, advising staff and the board through challenges, helping us to understand the multitude of aspects of literacy, about how many people continue to benefit from Houston Link to Learning because of

- Carol Huynh

tling coach and advocate.

She found her calling and went to wrestle for Simon Fraser University, where she met Mike Jones.

“He was a force in promoting women’s wrestling throughout B.C.,” she said.

“He supported the women on our team even though the university itself didn’t even recognize us as a team.”

Huynh said Jones was crucial in propelling her forward by believing in her, and sending her to international competitions and training camps.

Her SFU teammates also became integral to pushing for an ideological change at the university.

“They made sure that they were working as hard or harder than the men, because they knew that they had something to prove. They knew that there was a ton of people out there that looked at women’s wrestling and thought, ‘You guys don’t belong here.’ ” Over time, Huynh has seen advances in gender parity in sport. She points towards the Olympics’ having a Women in Sport Commission and having greater inclusion of women into executive boards. She also lauds United World Wrestling, amateur wrestling’s governing body, for having a president that promotes women’s wrestling.

Xuyun Zeng photos/Houston Today

Top right: Event guest speaker Carol Huynh with committee member Naomi Himech. Below in the middle wrestling coach Don Roy told the group about the sport of wrestling and bottom right is guest speak Carol Huynh with Lynn Morgan. At the bottom left Carol Huynh spoke to a crowd of over 100 guests at the sixth annual International Women’s Day observance in Houston.

Xuyun Zeng photos/Houston Today

At the top Linda Bush with her bouquet for the title of “2015 Most Honourable Woman”. At the bottom right are Linda Bush, Committee organizer Naomi Himech and Sue Jones who nominated Linda Bush for the title. And at the bottom left are Bunny Timms and Ann Vandenhoek, who received recognition for the two oldest members of the Houston Seniors Aquafit group.

“

“Literacy training is a fundamental necessity to our community.

‘Continue to fight for it, don’t give up’ is her motto.”

our time and commitment.

“She stayed in touch with learners, paying attention to where resources would be best spent, she guided us to never give up, she worked hard to create lasting partnerships with other community resource groups.

“Literacy training is a fundamental necessity to our community. ‘Continue to fight for it, don’t give up’ is her motto.

“Community services and hospice also received her attention, again at the heart of where charity energy time was needed

the most. At the provincial level, whenever there is a police incident now, and a third-party ombudsman is brought forth, we have Linda to thank.”

Bush has campaigned for police accountability after her son, Ian, was shot by police in 2005, which was a catalyst for the IIO’s formation, according to Bush.

She hopes that the RCMP will spend more money on training for police, and employ body cameras.

In Bush’s speech, she said she always felt a calling for serving the community.

“I’d like to throw out Sue, but thank you to everyone else,” she joked. “I do get really busy, I am one of those people that, it’s not so much that I can’t say no, it’s just if I see something that needs to be done, I just get in there and first thing I know, I’m up to my ears.”

“But most of the time I really enjoy it.”

Bush currently works for the Houston Retirement Housing Society and works on the advisory committee on the Independent Investigation Office.

10

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

NEWS

Houston Today

Council targets new initiatives in its operating budget

By Xuyun Zeng Houston Today

Preliminary discussions into this year’s budget continued at the March 2 budget meeting.

Council targeted certain new initiatives in its operating budget revolving around righting old wrongs, as sloppiness and poor methods have come to haunt the District.

Records management This is particularly notable in

administrative records management.

The District wants to spend up to $18,000 to hire someone for 36 days at $500 daily to organize their files, and create a filing system for staff.

“We’re finding some major gaps in our filing system to the point where if I go make a decision and if I got to grab that folio file for that property or project, we find that information is missing,” said District chief administrative officer Michael Glavin. “Just recently, we found bonds that should have been filed

Can We Offer a Safe Place?

YES, WE CAN!

Please consider making a donation to Houston Christian Reformed Church so that we, as a community, might privately sponsor 1 family.

Cheques should be made payable to H.C.R.C. with “Syrian Refugee Sponsorship Fund” on the memo line. Charitable receipts will be issued for any donation of $50 or more. Please provide full name and mailing address for receipts.

Donations may be mailed to: H.C.R.C., PO Box 6, Houston, BC V0J 1Z0 or call 250-845-8815 and we’ll pick it up!

All money collected will go directly to the refugees.

HOPE forToday Contraband

When we see containers going past on railway cars, we do not know what is inside them. They are each marked with various brand names but the shippers have the contents of each container marked on a shipping statement or manifest. Sometimes what the shipping manifest indicates and the actual contents do not match. The paperwork may say it contains, say automobiles, but when opened for inspection it actually contains hidden illegal drugs, stolen goods or personal items. Somewhere along the line someone has intercepted the intended use of the system for their own selfish gain. These illegal substances are sometimes called contraband.

God has chosen to reveal himself to us through his word, the Bible. We can conclude certain things about him from his revelation to us based on the truth of his Holy Scriptures, the Bible (Psalm 119:160; John 17:17). Even though we have God’s infallible word, sometimes we try to make up our own explanation of what God is saying to us or what he is like. At first glance it looks good and seems correct, yet when we carefully look at God’s word, we see that it is contrary to the truth.

An example of this might be that some say we can work our way to heaven. The thinking may go something like this; “If I am good enough, then my good will outweigh the bad. God will look on the good I have done and will be pleased and let me into heaven because of my sincere efforts and good works.”

At first glance, this could seem to make sense, but when we check God’s word we realize this is completely contrary to the truth which says “When we display our righteous deeds, they are nothing but filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6 NLT and “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you cannot take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.” Ephesians 2:8,9 NLT It is clear, we can be saved only through faith in Jesus Christ (John 3:16; Acts 4:12).

We must carefully study God’s word (2 Timothy 2:15), guided by his Holy Spirit (John 14:26), then we will be able to discern the difference between what is false and the truth (John 14:17).

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and released sitting in a file in the middle of nowhere.”

Glavin added that lacking information can hamper his decision-making.

Responding to a question from Mayor Shane Brienen, Glavin said in the future this problem should not recur as filing procedures will be overseen by the CAO and corporate services officer, and there will be consequences for failure to do so.

“It looks to me like a bunch of stuff fell through the cracks, and now we’re paying the price for it,” said the mayor. “I don’t want to say laziness or sloppiness but that’s sort of what I’m feeling right now.”

“This one to me clearly has to be done, I’m not super excited,” Glavin agreed that the mayor is “right to a point,” but added that high turnover of staff is another reason.

Coun. Dawn Potvin said the proposed expenditure is too high and would like further investigation into the costs.

Water pipes

Council pondered setting aside $50,000 for repairs of water leaks.

Aged infrastructure coupled with improper

Xuyun Zeng/Houston Today

District operations and capital budget meetings have recently been held.

Council is planning projects for the coming year. Last summer there was extensive work done on Butler Ave. in Houston. installation methods are causing more leaks.

“That’s something we have no control over,” said engineering manager Don Hounsell. “It’s all across Canada right now, it’s one of the biggest spending that’s going on — the infrastructure aging and falling apart.”

He added that the past two breaks the District fixed were due to aged infrastructure and “the way it was installed.”

“We have a lot of improper construction done back in the day,” said the CAO. “Those are coming back to

haunt us now.”

“We’re paying the price of our forefathers, so to speak.”

Ditch maintenance Hounsell also asked for a $30,000 increase for ditch maintenance.

The money will be used to clean ditches and ensure proper drainage that can prevent roadway substructure damage.

Hounsell unveiled a five year plan where each year the District would target ditches in different sections of town, going east

to west. By the end of the cycle, the District would start back on the eastern side of town again.

Mayor Brienen mentioned that he has received complaints that the District has not been working on some ditches which are in poor shape.

Hounsell replied that the engineering department does an assessment in the spring to see which ditches need to be done, and do as much as they can for $30,000.

Public Wi-Fi CAO

Glavin

said the District has received requests for public internet access at the Leisure Centre, arena and Community Hall, to which council expressed their approval for all but the Community Hall.

IT services quoted $6,025 for installation in all three facilities.

To do just the Leisure Centre and arena, it would cost $3,641 to install and $908 yearly.

Glavin expressed his disapproval for the Community Hall to get Wi-Fi because of a lack of usage, to which Coun. Tim Anderson agreed.

Elections’ nest egg

Council pondered finance director Carolyn Bidwell’s proposal to put a total of $10,000 over the next three years for elections.

Bidwell said managing expenses this way will allow council to avoid a big bill from coming all at once during an election year.

Responding to a question by Coun.

Dawn Potvin, Bidwell said this money could be used for by-elections, but the District needs a policy or bylaw on how funds are used.

Federal NDP demands changes to employment insurance system

By Flavio Nienow Black Press

New Democrats recently announced they are moving to hold the Liberal government to account on its promises to make changes to Canada’s e m p l o y m e n t insurance (EI) system.

S ke e n a - B u l k l e y Valley MP Nathan Cullen called the current EI program “broken,” saying it isn’t providing the help Canadians need, especially in Northwest B.C. “In the northwest, weak commodity

prices and struggling fishing stocks have taken a devastating toll on key mining operations and fisheries across our region,” said Cullen.

“Despite mounting job losses across the country, Liberals have failed to take urgent action to help those who are struggling.”

Low copper and coal prices have put operations at a number of British Columbia mines at risk and some have already been forced to reduce production and employee levels.

“The government must act urgently

to ensure benefits are there to help Canadians who have lost their job,” added Cullen.

The NDP motion demands that government reverse Harper’s reforms, create a universal threshold of 360 hours and put a firewall around the EI account so it is never again raided by other governments.

During the 2015 election campaign, the federal Liberals promised that, starting in 2017, they would reduce the waiting period for EI benefits.

“When a worker loses their job and applies for EI, they will only be without income for one week, not two,” said the Liberals. “We will also reverse Stephen Harper’s 2012 EI reforms that force unemployed workers to move away from their communities and take lower-paying jobs.”

The changes made by the previous federal government to the EI system in 2012 include an expectation that claimants accept any job for which they’re qualified, within 100

km of their home, as long as the pay is 70 per cent of their previous salary.

In December, Cullen also called on the Canada E m p l o y m e n t I n s u r a n c e Commission to redraw its economic regions in Northern B.C. to correspond to the economic realities of the northwest.

Cullen noted that the realities for fishermen on the north coast are not at all the same as those facing the oil and gas industry in Northeastern B.C., and the zones should reflect that.

Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

COMMUNITY

11

Are you a veteran or are your parents or grandparents war vets?

Business partners take over the Houston Food Market

If so drop off or email a picture with a small write up and we will publish it in our 2016 Remembrance Day special section.

Upstairs Houston Mall • Email: advertising@houston-today.com Phone: 250-845-2890 • www.houston-today.com

Syrian Refugee Sponsorship Fund

Houston Syrian Refugee Sponsorsh Goal

Goal

Total to March 11

“

For information on how you can contributeTotal please to call Bobby @ 845-3411 or Robin@ 845-2463

Xuyun Zeng photo/Houston Today

Houston Food Market President Jae Shin stands beside former owner Bob Wheaton and vice-president John Bae.

By Xuyun Zeng Houston Today

For Houston Food Market’s two new owners, buying the fast food and retail business stemmed from pragmatism.

“We needed to find a good business. We need a job. We need to work,” said vice-president John Bae. Bae and president Jay Shin officially took over the business March 1 from Bob Wheaton, driving two days from Vancouver before reaching town.

Bae leaves his family behind in Vancouver. He has a Grade 11 daughter who will attend university in a few years.

“I have to feed them, make a living, I need to educate them, so I need money,” he said. “That’s why I have to leave the family and come, myself, to work here.”

Luckily for Shin, her two daughters are all grown up.

The two business partners were alumni of the same high school in Korea. Coincidentally, both of them met again in Vancouver when they moved there around two decades ago.

Both of them used to have retail businesses, but sold them, and decided to partner up after finding this opportunity in Houston. Bae said he really liked how this business encompassed a Mr. Sub franchise and a retail store.

He took the leap of faith and came up to see the store in his

For information you can contrib call Bobby @ 8 Robin@ 845-24

“We have to settle down first, and we’ll look for something good for the people in town,” - John Bae

own eyes, and liked what he saw.

Bae currently has no future plans for the Food Market, saying that he needs to get a hang of things first.

“We have to settle down first, and we’ll look for something good for the people in town,” he said, saying that he would like to involve the business with the community.

He fervently rejected the idea of serving Korean fare in his business, stating that he already has troubles cooking for himself, let alone others.

Bae hopes that when the business settles down, he could travel to visit his family in Vancouver.

“But we cannot say right now, how long it’s going to take to settle down here. We need to know about the business first,” he said.

DID YOU KNOW...

72 per cent of local community newspaper readers read all or most of the paper. Reach your audience by advertising in: www.houston-today.com Ph: 250-845-2890

Ma

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12

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Houston Today

BUSINESSES & SERVICES around Houston & the Bulkley Valley...

FULL LINE OF WORK WEAR! Jeans • Jackets • Duck Coats & Overalls • Work Boots Shirts & Safety Clothing

Call SMP at 250-845-2244 Highway 16, Houston TF: 1-800-665-3151 Sullivan Motors

Phyllis

So much more than your local commercial laundry service

OPEN MON. TO SAT. 8AM - 5:30PM

D5631

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Pleasant Valley Cleaners

When your car, truck or SUV is in need of service, trust the factory-trained technicians at Sullivan Motor Products.

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Open: Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm Sat: 10am - 4pm

Serving the Bulkley Valley and Lakes District

METAMORPH JEWELRY, GEMS

Full Coverall Servic e:

• Sales - New & Used • Rentals • Repairs • Cleaning • 3M Reflective Stripin g

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3356 10th Street, Box 68, Houston • Phone: 250-845-7000

...Northwest’s Largest Volume Dealer for a Reason!!

WALK-OFF MATS SERVICE • LAUNDRY FACILITIES • COMPLETE LINEN SERVICE SHOP SUPPLIES • DROP OFF LAUNDRY SERVICE • SEWING SERVICES - REPAIRS ETC.

RED ROCKET SERVICES

ANGEL’S FLOWERS & GIFTS Janet

CALDERWOOD REALTY

Septic Removal, Portable Toilet Rentals Expediting and Hotshots

If you are buying or selling call me today: 250-845-8234

Now a dealer for BIO-CLEAN A septic enzyme and tank cleaner

I also offer Free Home Market Evaluations and information on the current real estate market.

Les Willson

250-845-3761

Dan Hansma

Cell: 250-845-8172 redrockt@telus.net

& NAILS

250.845.2329

Come see us for all your tire needs!

Open six days a week

Open six days a week

Tire Shop hourS: Monday to Friday: 8am - 6pm - Sat. 8am - noon Car WaSh hourS: Monday to Friday: 8am - 6pm - Sat. 8am - 4pm

2216 Nadina Ave. North, Houston

Phone: 250-845-2700 The best

EALSC! RV D ouston B

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Our lot is full of lightweight, affordable, quality-built travel trailers, fifth wheels and campers.

Site Prep Demolition Cleanup Landscaping Gravel Screened Top Soil White Landscape Rock

Phone: 250-845-2498

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This week’s featured business is...

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Small Engine Equipment & Repairs

3429 10th St., Steelhead Building

Cat Truck Engine and Truck Repairs

Advertise your Business or Service here for $500/week *

Call Laura at 250-692-7526 or 250-845-2890 or email: laura@ldnews.net

SALES • PARTS • SERVICE • FINANCING

West Highway 16, Houston 250-845-2213 • www.finning.ca

Include your business for only

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D &M

Seawest Hardwood Floor Refinishing

INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES & WELDING SHOP Steel Sales • GATES Hydraulic Hoses & Fittings • Wire Rope Black Pipe • Fittings • Safety Equipment Fasteners • Oil Spill Kits • Tools

✔ Dustless containment ✔ State of the art equipment system ✔ Refinishing & staining ✔ Over 7 years in the business

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2870 - 5th St., Houston Industrial Park Hours: Mon-Thurs 8-6pm • Fri 8-5pm • Sat 9-3pm

Office: 250 847 1433 • Cell: 250 299 1835

250-845-3334

Your local Specialist - Senior’s Discounts Offered

Your

Dealer

• HAY FORKS • PALLET FORKS • SNOW BLADES • QUICK ATTACH UNITS • REPAIRS & EQUIPMENT

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Give us a call for any of your attachment needs.

Bill and Patsy Miller, Owners 29850 Hwy 16 West • PO Box 450 • Burns Lake

Ph 250-696-3211 • Cell: 250-692-9940 email: sales@pbagrimech.ca

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DREAM WORKS Home Renovations Helping You Bring Your Ideas to Life

Call 250-845-0707 Andy Horsfield

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Call Laura at 250-692-7526 or 250-845-2890 or email: laura@ldnews.net

Houston Today Wednesday, March 16, 2016

www.houston-today.com 13

To advertise in print:

Browse more at:

Call: 250-845-2890 Email: advertising@houston-today.com Self-serve: blackpressused.ca Career ads: localworkbc.ca

A division of

INDEX IN BRIEF FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

Announcements

Announcements

Travel

Employment

Place of Worship

Information

Travel

AL-ANON Are you affected by someone’s drinking? Al-Anon meetings are Monday, 7pm at the Houston United Church.

Contact number: (250) 8457774.

SAVE 30% on our Heart of the Arctic adventure. Visit Inuit communities in Greenland and Nunavut aboard the comfortable 198-passenger Ocean Endeavour. Call for details! 1800-363-7566 or visit online www.adventurecanada.com (TICO#04001400)

Career Opportunities

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS TRAVEL EMPLOYMENT BUSINESS SERVICES PETS & LIVESTOCK MERCHANDISE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE RENTALS AUTOMOTIVE ADULT ENTERTAINMENT LEGAL NOTICES

AGREEMENT

It is agreed by any display or Classified Advertiser requesting space that the liability of the paper in the event of failure to publish an advertisement shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for that portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect item only, and that there shall be no liability in any event beyond the amount paid for such advertisement. The publisher shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement.

Used.ca cannot be responsible for errors after the first day of publication of any advertisement.

Notice of errors on the first day should immediately be called to the attention of the Classified Department to be corrected for the following edition.

Used.ca reserves the right to revise, edit, classify or reject any advertisement and to retain any answers directed to the Used.ca Box Reply Service and to repay the customer the sum paid for the advertisement and box rental.

DISCRIMINATORY LEGISLATION

Advertisers are reminded that Provincial legislation forbids the publication of any advertisement which discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, color, nationality, ancestry or place of origin, or age, unless the condition is justified by a bona fide requirement for the work involved.

COPYRIGHT

Copyright and/or properties subsist in all advertisements and in all other material appearing in this edition of Used.ca.

Permission to reproduce wholly or in part and in any form whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or offset process in a publication must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any unauthorized reproduction will be subject to recourse in law.

ON THE WEB:

HOUSTON & AREA CHURCH DIRECTORY Houston United Church

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Meetings are at the Houston United Church, Monday and Thursday at 7:00pm. Contact number is:1-877-644-2266

SERVICES: Sundays at 11a.m.

Business Opportunities

(Kids Sunday School during the service) To contact the church or for pastoral care: Morgan Ryder (250-698-7612 -H) or 250-692-9576 -C) or Marianne Dekker 250-845-2282

3790 C.R. Matthews Rd. Pastor: Larry Ballantyne

Sunday School: 9:45am Church Service: 11:00am Everyone Welcome!

Phone: 250-845-7810

Houston Canadian Reformed Church

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.canadabenefit.ca/free-assessment 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.

Travel

SUNDAY SERVICES: 10:00 AM & 2:30 PM

Timeshare

Pastor Carl VanDam s.carl.vandam@canrc.org Office Phone: 250-845-3441 ~ Everyone Welcome ~

CANCEL YOUR Timeshare.

No risk program stop mortgage & maintenance payments today. 100% Money back guarantee. Free consultation. Call us now. We can help! 1-888-356-5248

3797 Omineca Way, Box 36, Houston, BC

Houston Christian Reformed Church 1959 Goold St., Box 6, Houston 250-845-7578

~ Everyone Welcome! ~ Services: 10:00 am & 3:00 pm HOUSTON PENTECOSTAL CHURCH 2024 Riverbank Drive, Box 597, Houston Phone: 250-845-2678 Pastor: Mike McIntyre Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 am Sunday Prayer Meeting: 7:00 pm Sunday School: During the Service

Everyone Welcome

Anglican Church of St. Clement 2324 Butler Ave., Box 599, Houston, BC

Rev. Jacob Worley Phone: 250-845-4940

Services at: 2:00pm Sundays

St. Anthony’s Catholic Church 2001 Riverbank Drive Houston, B.C. V0J 1Z2 Phone: 250-845-2841

Sunday Service: 11:30 AM Parish Priest: Fr. Pier Pandolfo

Reach A Larger Audience

Employment

2106 Butler Ave

Houston Fellowship Baptist Church

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 1-855-7683362 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Cards of Thanks

PLUMBER

NEW EXCITING mini VLT’s.

Produce buckets of cash monthly. Attracts customers like money magnets. Locations provided. Ground floor opportunity. Full details call now 1-866-668-6629. Website www.tcvend.com

Req. Full-Time for Haworth plumbing. Must have previous residential exp. 3 years in trade minimum, journeyman preferred.

Flexible Hours.

Top wages provided.

Call: 250-975-0514 haworthplumbing@ hotmail.ca

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

HUNTING GUIDE OPPORTUNITY Smithers, BC

Skeena Air Guides seeks professional, experienced, mountain hunting guide for remote fly-in camp in Smithers, BC. Must have minimum 2 yrs guiding exp, horse riding/handling and mountain goat experience a must. Must exhibit good communication skills, experience with international clients/languages an asset.

Duties include: guiding, packing, wrangling, field prep of trophies/meat, & general camp/trail maintenance duties.

Seasonal position from mid-July to mid-Oct, $175+/day.

Benefits: accommodations and meals, WCB, vacation pay, and return air transportation into hunting camp from Smithers.

Please apply to admin@collingwoodbros.com or fax 250.847.2909

THANK YOU! The Houston ACT Committee would truly like to thank the community of Houston for their participation and support that made the

3RD ANNUAL WINTERFEST another huge success!

Thank you for coming out and having fun for Family Day weekend...

See you in 2017!

Along with all the organizations that put their heart into organizing their individual group event in WinterFest 2016 - (Houston Curling Club, Houston Link to Learning, Houston Public Library, CountryWide Sports, Morice Mountain Nordic Ski Club, Pleasant Valley Plaza, Houston Leisure Facility & Arena), we would also like to thank: Houston Fire Department Monster Industries Twain Sullivan Elementary PAC Councillor Rick Lundrigan Arnold Amonson Andy Meints Ed Kronemeyer Wendell Garrison Houston Secondary School Safe Grad 2016 Ryan Stumpf/Pleasant Valley Remanufacturing Also thank you to all the participants and we hope you enjoyed WinterFest 2016... And to all the hosts and organizers of WinterFest events – a BIG thank you for all your hard work!

Career Opportunities

Career Opportunities

Glacier TOYOTA Looking for an exciting career ?

Glacier Toyota is HIRING! We are looking for a highly motivated Financial Services Manager who excels in sales & customer satisfaction.

Are you a successful banker, sales professional or customer service representative that excels in high volume sales & customer service?

For the ideal candidate, we offer an amazing pay & employee benefit package & vehicle allowance.

Join our team.

Contact Scott Olesiuk 250.847.9302 jobs@glaciertoyota.ca

www.glaciertoyota.ca

TODAY TOMORROW TOYOTA

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

“A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN OUR REGION” 37, 3RD Avenue, PH: 250-692-3195 PO Box 820, TF: 800-320-3339 Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0 FX: 250-692-3305 www.rdbn.bc.ca E-MAIL:inquiries@rdbn.bc.ca

JOB POSTING

Knockholt Landfill Attendant The Regional District is seeking one individual to work at the Knockholt Landfill, which is located approximately 8km east of Houston, BC. A landfill compactor, excavator with thumb, crawler dozer, dump truck and roll-off truck will be used at the facility. The hours of operation of the Knockholt Landfill are Monday through Sunday 10:00am to 6:00pm, closed Statutory Holidays. The position available is for the following: • Working under an averaging agreement, 7 days on (Monday through Sunday) followed by 7 days off, 9 hours per day, for a total of 63 hours every two weeks.

The available position is permanent, full time and offers a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits package following the successful completion of a 6 month probationary period.

The general duties of the landfill attendant will be: • Daily operations of the landfill including directing vehicle traffic to proper unloading zones, use of heavy equipment to spread and compact the garbage, hauling cover soil, unloading public drop off bins at the landfill active face, plowing snow in the winter and grading roads in the summer; • Maintaining a clean and accessible public drop off area, conducting regular inspections of the electric fence and ensuring that the on-site weigh scale is operational; • Greeting and assisting the public in the proper disposal of waste materials; • General maintenance of on-site equipment; • Monitoring, reporting and documentation of landfill activities including recycling initiatives.

Skills that the landfill attendant should possess: • Good public relations skills; • Be physically fit and enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions; • Be safety conscious; • An ability to keep an organized and clean and tidy site, including the ability to correctly fill out paperwork and documentation; • Experience operating and maintaining heavy equipment including loaders, excavators with thumbs, crawler dozers, dump trucks and roll-off trucks. Experience with the above equipment in earthwork and road building construction activities where achievement of proper elevation and grading is desired.

Resumes which include a detailed description of relevant experience will be accepted until 3:00pm, Tuesday, March 29, 2016 at the Regional District office in Burns Lake.

Resumes may be faxed to 250-692-3305 and should be addressed to Janine Dougall, Director of Environmental Services.

14 www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2016 Houston Today

WELCOME HOME! 4 bedroom home in a great neighborhood!! Really must be seen to be appreciated! Oak hardwood floors in kitchen/living/dining/living and hallway. Updated countertops in kitchen & main bathroom. Laminate in bedrooms.

Some new windows. Full furnished basement features a huge rec-room, den and office as well as a spacious laundry room and 2 piece bath! And ... outside features include a patio wired for a hot tub, detached 13x30 garage/ workshop, and a really neat insulated & wired playhouse! Fenced yard, ample parking. All appliances included! Quick possession available!

Call Lia to view 250-845-1147.

$134,900

A HARVEST OF FEATURES! Spacious 4 bedroom family home on a huge lot on a cul-de-sac! Updates include vinyl plank in the kitchen, laminate throughout main floor. Kitchen countertops updates, island, solid oak cabinets, updated interior doors, fixtures, trim and paint. 3 bedrooms up, 1 down. Master features a 3 piece en-suite. Large deck with nice view of mountains off formal dining room, outside basement entry with large mudroom. Double carport.

Fridge, stove, dishwasher and window coverings included. Call Lia to view 250-845-1147.

$199,900

RE/MAX HOUSTON

Locally owned and operated

Call 250-845-7325 www.remaxhouston.ca Whether you are buying or selling, Lia offers prompt, friendly and professional service with over 20 years of real estate experience and a lifetime in the Houston area.

2436 Poulton Ave., Houston, BC • e-mail: remaxhou@telus.net • www.realtor.ca

Education/Trade Schools START A new career in Graphic Arts, Healthcare, Business, Education or Information Tech. If you have a GED, call: 855-670-9765

Haircare Professionals RETIREMENT home in Kamloops seeking hair stylist to rent salon space and provide services to our residents. Call 250-376-3131 for more info

Feed & Hay GOOD QUALITY early cut grass/alfalfa mix hay. $160/ton. Also some barley, oats, and pea silage bales. available. 250-846-5728.

Merchandise for Sale

Misc. for Sale POLE BARNS, Shops, steel buildings metal clad or fabric clad. Complete supply and installation. Call John at 403998-7907; jcameron@advancebuildings.com.

Medical/Dental Bulkley Valley CreditREFORESTATION Union NURSERY seedlings of hardy HEALTHCARE DOCUMENtrees, shrubs, & berries for EPS Logos to be to Newspapers TATION Specialists aresupplied in shelterbelts or landscaping. huge demand.

Employers want CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career!

Train with Canada’s best-rated program.

Enroll today. www.canscribe.com. Call 1800-466-1535. or email to: info@canscribe.com.

Spruce & Pine from $0.99/tree.

Free Shipping.

Replacement guarantee. Call 1-866-873-3846 or visit www.treetime.ca

Services

- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info & DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com/400OT 1-800-5666899 Ext:400OT.

Pantone colours:

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

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

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

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

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

Pantone 287 Pantone 356 SAWMILLS FROM only $4,397 - Make money & save Pantone 139 money with your own bandmill

STEEL BUILDING sale. “Big blow out sale-clear out pricing in effect now!” 20x20 $5,444 25x26 $6,275 28x28 $7,454 30x30 $8,489 32x34 $10,328 42x50 $15,866. One end wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800668-5422 or visit us online: www.pioneersteel.ca

Misc. Wanted Buying Coin Collections of any size.We collect CAN & US Coins, bills, Silver, Gold. Local couple also deal with Estates, Jewellery, Sterling, Antiques+ Chad & Crissy 778-281-0030.

We can make House Calls!

Bulkley Valley Rentals

Apt/Condo for Rent CREDIT UNION NEED A loan? Own property?

Have bad credit? We can help!

Call toll free 1-866-405-1228 firstandsecondmortgages.ca

Home Improvements 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.

FOR RENT Starting At $775/Mo. Bachelor & 1 Bdrm Suites Full Kitchen Facilities Too! Wi-fi, Ph, Cable & Util. Incl.

Ref. Req.,Terry 778-210-1703 terrymadley112@outlook.com

Bulkley Valley Eavestrough

Eavestrough

Continuous INSURANCE SERVICES

Aluminum Gutters 6oIÀt )aFia ,nstallation

250-846-5509 w_vh@hotmail.com

Bulkley Valley Eavestroughing Bulkley Valley

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Lia Long 250-845-1147

HOUSTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR Nadina Offroad Society Events: presents ‘Beerfest’ Houston Public Library Lego Club – -forApril 9.

Doors open at 8 p.m. at the Houston kids ages 7 & up. Wed, March 23 & 30 Community event is a–fundraiser with from 1 to 3 Hall. p.m. The • Book Club Thurs, March all process to the Nadina Offroad Society for 31 from 7 to 9 p.m. For more info on above this years’ Mudcontact Drags. Everyone dress up events please the librarymust @250-845and for those who do there will be approved 2256. items for purchase. Pre-register your team The Houston MS Self HelpTickets Groupare willsold meet by text to: 250-845-4701. at at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday MarchFashions.

30th at Aurora Truck Centre and First Choice Nadina Community Futures. All folks dealing Important Start up Houston Soccer For meeting with multiple sclerosis are welcome. more – Tues., April 12 @ 7 p.m. at the information, phone 250-845-7859. Houston Secondary School library.

Nadina Offroad Society presents ‘Beerfest’ Socceropen Coaches meeting Thurs., -Houston April 9. Doors at 8 p.m. at the–Houston April 14 @ Hall.

7 p.m. the Houston Secondary Community Theatevent is a fundraiser with School library. all process to the Nadina Offroad Society for Blue this years’ Mud Drags.Dessert EveryoneNight must dress up Houston Pro-Life in the Green basement of thewho Christian Reformed on and for those do there will beChurch approved Thurs., Aprilpurchase.

14, at 7 p.m.

Natalie Sonner the items for Pre-register your is team Harvest director of 250-845-4701.

Life Canada and Tickets will be are presenting by text to: sold at on the Truck imperative Pro-Life Aurora Centresubjects and Firstregarding Choice Fashions. education and euthanasia. We look forward to Important Start up Houston Soccer meeting seeing you and for your continued support. If – Tues., April 12 @ 7 p.m. at the Houston there are any questions please phone Michalle Secondary School library.

Brown.

Houston Soccer Coaches meeting – Thurs., Houston Public Library Events: Lego Club – April 14 @ 7 p.m. at the Houston Secondary for kids ages 7 & up. Wed, March 23 & 30 School library. from 1 to 3 p.m. • Book Club – Thurs, March Houston the 31 from 7 Pro-Life to 9 p.m. Dessert For moreNight info oninabove basement of thecontact Christian Church on events please theReformed library @250-845Colour Logo Thurs., 2256. April 14, at 7 p.m. Natalie Sonner is the director of Life Canada and will be presenting Community Calendar proudly sponsored by Community Calendar proudly sponsored by

Buck Community Development on theFlats imperative subjects regarding Society Pro-Life meets every 3rd Sat. evening at 6:30 at the education and euthanasia. We look p.m. forward to Morice Cross Ski Trails lodge. seeing Mountain you and for yourCountry continued support.

If All Buck residents are welcome attend there areFlats any questions please phonetoMichalle as we discuss issues concerning the Buck Flats Brown. area. For more info call Chris Newell at 250Buck Flats Community Development Society 845-3564. meets every 3rd Sat. evening at 6:30 p.m. at the The Houston Legion RegularSki Meetings: 2nd Morice Mountain Cross-Country Trails lodge.

Monday the residents month is are Executive, 4thtoMonday All Buck of Flats welcome attend is General Meeting. asawe discuss issues concerning the Buck Flats July 2007 area. For more info call 250Houston’s “Love

by Chris the Newell Bowl”at Soup 845-3564.

Kitchen serving healthy homemade soups in two different seatings, 11-12 and 12 -12nd on The Houston Legion - Regular Meetings: Wednesdays.

Monday of the month is Executive, 4th Monday

is a General Super ValuMeeting. tapes may be donated to the Legion Ladies Auxiliary dropBowl” off boxes at Houston’s “Love by atthe Soup A&W; Shear Delight; Razor’s Edge and TerriKitchen serving healthy homemade soups in Lynn Hair Creations.

The11-12 tapes and are used two different seatings, 12 -1asona fund-raiser for the L.A. to the Houston Legion.

Wednesdays.

TOPS Tues.: 8-9:30to a.m.

Super 1901 Valu meets tapes every may be donated the at the Houston United Church.

Come other Legion Ladies Auxiliary at drop off join boxes at women who are TakingRazor’s Off Pounds Sensibly and A&W; Shear Delight; Edge and Terriencouraging a healthyThe lifestyle.

Lynn Hair Creations. tapes are used as a

Coffee Break - an Interactive Women’s Bible fund-raiser for the L.A. to the Houston Legion.

Study meetmeets everyevery Tuesday TOPS 1901 Tues.:morning 8-9:30 from a.m.

9:30-11:00 at the Houston Christian at the Houston United Church.

Come Reformed join other Church, 1959 Goold Road. Childcare is provided. women who are Taking Off Pounds Sensibly and For more info call Margaret: 845-2348, Darlene encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

File 845-7438, Evelyn 696-3229.

Coffee Break - an Interactive Women’s Bible Study meet every Tuesday morning from 9:30-11:00 at the Houston Christian Reformed

Bulkley Valley Bulkley Valley CREDIT UNION CREDIT UNION N

TOPLEY

Church, 1959 Goold Road. Childcare is provided. For more info call Margaret: 8452348, Darlene 845-7438, Society Evelyn 696-3229.

Topley Fire Protection meetings every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm.

TOPLEY

Structural Firefighting/Hwy Rescue.

Interested? Topley Volunteer Fire Dept.

Topley Fire Protection Society meetings is accepting applications. No experience every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm. necessary please contact Byron - F/C 250Structural Firefito ghting/Hwy Rescue.

696-3348 or come a Fire Practice Thurs @ Interested?

Topley Volunteer Fire Dept.

19:00 hrs (7pm). is accepting applications. No experience necessary please contact Byron - F/C 250696-3348 or come to a Fire Practice Thurs @ 19:00 hrs (7pm).

The Granisle and District Senior Citizens meet every second and fourth Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at the Seniors Centre.

GRANISLE

GRANISLE

Granisle Volunteer FireSenior Department The Granisle and District Citizens meetings fire practices everyThursday Tues., 7:00pm meet every& second and fourth of the at the Fire Hall.p.m. at the Seniors Centre. month at 1:30 Granisle of theFire Way Department services are Granisle Church Volunteer Sundays meetingsat & 11:00am. fire practices every Tues., 7:00pm at the Fire Hall.

Please keep your announcements as brief are as Granisle Church of the Way services possible. at Deadline (faxed or mailed or delivered) is Sundays 11:00am.

4 p.m. Thursday. Items are printed or alternated as space permits.

Items announcements will be accepted via email Please keep your as fax, brief as or dropped at the (faxed office.orNomailed phoneor calls please. possible.

Deadline delivered) is online and can be 4More p.m.calendar Thursday.items Itemsare arelisted printed or alternated as submitted or viewed space permits.

Items at willwww.houston-today.com be accepted via fax, email or dropped at the office. No phone calls please.

More calendar items are listed online and can be submitted or viewed at www.houston-today.com

HOUSTON & DISTRICT BRANCH HOUSTON DISTRICT BRANCH 2365&Copeland Ave. 2365 Copeland Ave. P.O. Box 1480, Houston P.O. Box 1480, Houston Phone: 250-845-7117 Phone: 250-845-7117

Since May 1941, Bulkley Valley Credit Union has been building a solid financial institution that members from Burns Lake to the a Since May 1941, Bulkley Valley Credit Union has been building Hazeltons have grown to rely on. solid financial institution that members from Burns Lake to the People helping is how we began and we strive to remain Hazeltons have people grown to rely on. people-oriented, both in our financial through direct People helping people is how we beganservices and weand strive to remain involvement withboth our communities. people-oriented, in our financial services and through direct We are dedicated to local decision-making and local control, key involvement with our communities. factors providing of services that financial We are in dedicated to the localkinds decision-making andmeet localthe control, key needs of individuals and business members alike. factors in providing the kinds of services that meet the financial needs of individuals and business members alike. www.bvcu.com

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Houston Today

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

COMMUNITY

15

TRAVELLING Moose

Welcome to Smither’s Airport by local wildlife.

“

Photos submitted

Is it time to return your radon kit for testing?

As winter winds down, Northern Health is reminding people who are testing their homes or businesses for radon to send in their radon test to the appropriate testing site. The timeline for sending in your individual kit will depend on how long you wish to test.

Testing should occur for a minimum of three months and include time during the winter months.

If you purchased your radon kit from a Northern Health facility, drop it off at your local health unit and we will ship it for you. If you purchased it from

“We want northerners to understand their test results, and ensure that they take the appropriate steps to reduce radon levels in their homes if necessary.”

- Dr. Sandra Allison, Northern Health chief medical health officer

radonaware.ca or another source, please follow the shipping instructions on the package. Once you receive your results, a Northern Health Environmental Health Officer would be pleased to discuss follow up options.

Radon is a ra-

dioactive, invisible, odourless gas that can seep into your home through cracks in floors, walls and foundations.

You can’t see, smell or taste radon. But when radon seeps into a closed-in space like a house, it can be harmful. This is why

it is important for people to test homes and businesses so that they know if radon levels could be harmful.

“One in 20 people who are exposed to radon gas over a long period of time are at risk of developing lung cancer,” said

Dr. Sandra Allison, Northern Health chief medical health officer. “We want northerners to understand their test results, and ensure that they take the appropriate steps to reduce radon levels in their homes if necessary.”

Exposure to the combination of radon gas and cigarette smoke creates a greater risk of lung cancer than exposure to either factor alone. A person who smokes or used to smoke and is exposed to high levels of radon over many years has a 1 in 3 chance of developing lung cancer. For non-

smokers, the risk is 1 in 20.

It is recommended that those people whose homes or businesses test high for radon hire a certified radon mitigation specialist. A fix usually costs between $1,500 and $3,000 depending on your home.

“No one should have to suffer from radon-induced lung cancer. And to ensure no one does, testing for indoor radon – and finding out if your home has a problem - is a vital first step,” said Scott McDonald, CEO of the BC Lung Association.

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“About now, most people who tested their homes this past fall and winter will begin receiving their radon test results.

We’re hopeful those whose levels exceed the Health Canada safety guideline will take action and mitigate.”

The winter is the best times to test for radon, however test kits are still available through the BC Lung Association website radonaware.ca, or through Northern Health at your local health unit.

For more information, visit northernhealth.ca or radonaware.ca.

16

www.houston-today.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Houston Today

March 16 to 22, 2016

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