December 2, 2011 by Chetwynd Echo

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Quinn Cardinal facing serious charges

BY JOEI WARM –––––––––––––– CHETWYND – An arrest warrant has been issued for Quinn Cardinal as a result of his failure to appear in court Nov. 23 on charges of assault and causing a disturbance, said a Court Registry spokesperson. Cardinal is facing a total of 14 charges stemming from two separate incidents she added. Twelve of those 14 charges relate to the 2009 deaths of Mike Bateman and Josh Lavallee. He appeared in court Nov. 8 to address two charges impaired driving causing death, two charges impaired driving causing bodily harm, two charges of causing an accident resulting in death, two charges causing an

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Holiday Light-Up

A small group of residents helped kick off the community light up Friday evening in downtown Chetwynd, commemorating the district’s official start to the Christmas Season. The Chetwynd Chamber of Commerce also hosted a candlelight vigil in memory of District Councillor Joanne Roberts who passed away earlier this month. Photo by Naomi Larsen

Tax Exemption Policy considered for new housing developments

BY NAOMI LARSEN Chetwynd Echo Editor –––––––––––––– CHETWYND – More than 60 representatives from around the community and BC Housing met Nov. 10 to discuss Chetwynd’s housing demands. The meeting, which was closed to the media, was hosted by the District of Chetwynd to hear from industry on their present and

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future operations and expected workforce growth projections, and how they see this translating into direct worker housing demands. In a press release from the District it states, “Mayor Evan Saugstad announced at the forum that Council agreed to consider a Tax Revitalization Exemption Policy to stimulate multifamily housing development in Chetwynd for multifamily residen-

tial projects.” Economic Development Officer Ellen Calliou said Council agreed to provide a full (100 per cent) municipal Tax Revitalization for five years for multifamily residential development or redevelopment for six or more units. The policy was adopted by Council at their regular meeting Nov. 21, Please see "SAUGSTAD," “the over- page 2

December 2, 2011

C het w y nd Echo

Saugstad says forum long past due, much was learned Continued from page 1

riding purpose being to incent housing development and to create an action plan(s) for new housing development opportunities in our community to meet the growing demand,” Mayor Evan Saugstad said. James Munro, Director Regional Development from BC Housing for Affordable Housing Partnerships discussed the programs available within the partnership models to deliver Community based housing. He said the Provincial government would support facilitation, coordination, financing and rental assistance and the Federal Government

could access capital grants for partnerships. Karen Ungerson, from CMHC reported on the SEED funding program, grant and loan opportunities for those (up to 100,000 in the form of repayable interest loan for private and non-profit developers of affordable housing) who can demonstrate that their proposed project will be affordable. “With the participation from the 60 representatives here today the partnerships for projects could be great, I look forward to further discussions,” Munro said. Neil Curtis, Crown Lands, Manager, Planning and Local Government discussed

Thank You

I would like to thank everyone who came out to vote in our Municipal Election and supported me in my campaign for Council. I am excited and looking forward to working with our Mayor and Council over the next 3 years. Thank you for your Vote! Rochelle Galbraith

“We have and will

CALLIOU

the process that has happened for the available Crown lands that are currently for sale within Chetwynd. Calliou said these lands are listed with MLS and are zoned for development of residential and

continue to work to deliver unique opportunities to address the current housing development shortfall and support our growing industries.” multifamily lots. Phase 2, the release of additional Crown residential lots, is in the application stage for review and is moving ahead for future additional lots that will be for sale. Industry representatives reported over 300

workers would be needed over the next 18 months in forestry, oil and gas and coal developments. “All reported the need for housing and due to the demand and turnover of employees a collaborative approach to long term housing was essential for the growth and planning for Chetwynd and area,” Calliou said, adding for supporting documents, stats and additional information please contact the Economic Development Office. The plans to move forward from the discussion following the meeting are to work hard to ensure that partnerships and commitments from all the developers, industry and building community can happen.

“We have and will continue to work to deliver unique opportunities to address the current housing development shortfall and support our growing industries,” Calliou said. In his report to council, Saugstad said the forum was long past due. “It is my belief that much was learned, for both those who are currently involved and for those who wish to become involved in housing developing for Chetwynd,” he said. “It was great to hear the different perspectives on what some of the issues are and what some of the solutions may be. We should now have a better idea on how to move forward and develop more housing.”

Contact RCMP if you see accused Continued from page 1

causing death and two charges of to provide Cardinal with a chance to dangerous driving causing bodily consult with counsel. accident resulting in bodily harm, harm. Anyone knowing his whereabouts two charges dangerous driving The case was adjourned to Dec. 6 is asked to contact local RCMP.

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Want to be heard?

You can email us at editor@chetwyndecho.net; mail to Box 750 Chetwynd B.C. V0C 1J0 or drop of your letter at 5016 50 Avenue. All letters submitted must be signed with a return address and daytime telephone number so we can confirm that it came from you. The Echo reserves the right to edit letters for clarity, legality, length and to refuse publication of any submitted material. We may also choose to use a letter as the basis for a story. So, be sure to keep your letters brief and to the point. Letters originating from the Peace region get priority. We encourage new contributors as we attempt to publish a crosssection of public opinion.

- Naomi Larsen, editor

C het w y nd Echo

December 2, 2011

Site C hosts info sessions for business community

BY NAOMI LARSEN Chetwynd Echo Editor –––––––––––––– CHETWYND – The Chetwynd Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the B.C. Chamber of Commerce held a information sessions last week to inform the local business community of the status of the Site C project. Approximately 20 people attended Chetwynd’s session. B.C Hydro Manager of Community Relations Dave Conway says the purpose of the sessions were to make sure the business community is well prepared in the future. "These were business information sessions really geared towards the business community - potential suppliers to the project and what we wanted to do was provide local businesses and suppliers with an update about the project where the project presently sits in the environmental process - where it sits overall in the staged approach and to give them an idea of when they could start to see requests for proposals

and tenders to come out for the project and what that process might look like,” Conway said in an interview with Mile0City. Conway adds the project is still in its very early stages and BC Hydro is years away from any sort of Site C construction. "The environmental assessment process is expected to take 3 years that's what the regulators have told us. What we would be looking at from a potential procurement and tenders and request for proposal is that contractors and service providers might start to see request for proposals to appear the end of 2012, early 2013 as we start to procure services. It's key though to remember that even though we're procuring services ahead of construction - that no actual construction would actually begin before certification is received for the project and that's depended on the outcome of the environmental assessment process." Those in attendance had a chance to ask questions throughout the presenta-

BC Hydro’s Manager of Community Relations Dave Conway speaks to the Chetwynd business community,

tion. They also learned that Highway 29 to Hudson’s Hope and Fort St. John will be realigned prior to the flooding of the reservoir and that surrounding water tributaries will be affected. However Conway insisted once everything is in place, the water levels in the reservoir will rarely fluctuate more than a metre.

Conway also mentioned a public access road across the dam that was originally included in the project blueprints as been removed, as it is no longer required for construction or operations. The Site C project is currently in the early part of the third stage of development, which is the environmental and regulatory review.

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C het w y nd Echo

December 2, 2011

Chetwynd is experiencing a major housing shortage. What do you think could be done?

Email editor@chetwyndecho.net or log onto our Facebook page. Your response could be included in this space next week.

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Naomi Larsen is Editor for the Chetwynd Echo. Contact her at by phone at 250.788.2246 or via email editor@chetwyndecho.net

icture it. Donwtown Chetwynd, 8 p.m. Nov. 29. Moonlight Madness. A quiet and dark street, virtually empty except for the few lonely souls making their way down the sidewalk. Twas' a few weeks before Christmas and all through the town, not a person was shopping – not even downtown. The storefronts and District had hung their decorations with care, in hopes that holiday shoppers (and Shop Local program supporters) would soon be there.

The was no snow falling that night, the stars twinkled in the sky, The shopping was to continue until 10 p.m. that nigh’. With me in my sweater, camera in hand I headed downtown to shopping madness land. As I rounded the corner to shop and get at ‘er I stood in the parking lot to see what was (not) the matter. Away to the street I flew like a flash Stopping a moment to pick up some more cash. The sidewalks along 51st were empty I saw I shook my head slowly, no laughter or fa la la, la la la, la la la The streets were all empty, not a soul to be seen

No support for the downtown, what a sad sight to see. As I made my way the downtown streets and back, I wondered where everyone was, holiday spirit did lack. No people, no shoppers, no holiday rushes, No laughter, no smiles, no merchandise gushes. Now Chetwynd-ites, now locals, now residents and friends Where were you all Friday? Snuggled up in your dens? You should have been downtown supporting our merchants Having some fun, strolling the streets and buying some curtains! (sorry...I needed a rhyme...) As fresh powder that

before the snowmobilers enjoy We need to support our community, each girl and boy So next time a downtown gathering (Dec. 9 – this upcoming weekend) is hosted Please make an effort and come and enjoy hot chocolate and chestnuts roasted...(on an open fire…jack frost nipping at your...oh...sorry...) And then while you're out there and enjoying your time And shopping and donating each dollar and dime, Remember the downtown could be much more alive If our residents and Please see "Do you," page 7

C het w y nd Echo

December 2, 2011

The province should consider the case for natural gas fired electricity

To the Editor: If BC needs new electricity – and that’s not a given – the province should not rule out natural gas fired generation. Advantages are numerous: • BC has an ample and increasing supply of natural gas produced within the province. • Prices are low and predicted to stay that way for some years due to the increasing supply of shale gas. • Natural gas produces reliable, predictable firm power, not subject to the whims of weather that alternatives such as wind, solar, or hydro are. • Natural gas can be built in increments to fit the demand

curve as it gradually increases. Mega-projects such as dams are less flexible, require years of lead time and come on-line in one big lump. • Combined cycle gas plants would diversify BC’s source of electricity supply. At present, BC is about 90 per cent dependent on water-driven turbines. But we appear to be entering a period of climate change characterized by extremes. Not a good time to have all the generation eggs in one basket, especially one that’s weather-related. • Gas-fired generation can be sited near the load centres, eliminating the need for long transmission lines, which in turn

reduces line losses that occur when electricity is transmitted over long distances. The disadvantage of natural gas is that although it is the cleanest of the fossil fuels, it still produces greenhouse gases both when it’s produced and when it’s burned. Many British Columbians oppose gas-fired electricity generation because of the greenhouse gases and their connection to climate change. That argument would have merit if we made the next logical step and said, “We shouldn’t generate electricity with gas because its emissions damage the atmosphere. So we will leave ours in the ground.” But

we’re not doing that. Quite the opposite. We offer huge royalty incentives to encourage exploration and development of natural gas fields. We give companies massive volumes of free, fresh water for their drilling and fracking operations even though we know that water will be permanently removed from the water cycle. We send our government representatives to foreign countries to flog our natural gas to anyone who will buy. We are hell-bent on getting as much natural gas out of the ground as quickly as possible. Once the gas is out of the ground, it will be used and greenhouse gases will be emit-

ted. It makes no difference to the atmosphere whether it is burned in BC or in a foreign country. Surely we have to ask ourselves why it’s okay to sell our natural gas for generating electricity in China, India, or some other foreign country, but not okay to generate electricity with it at home? It’s time for we British Columbians to abandon our double standard on electricity generation. Either BC gas is suitable for use at home or abroad, or it is too damaging and should be left in the ground. We can’t have it both ways. Gwen Johansson Hudson’s Hope.

The PVEA has saved the province billions of energy dollars already

To the Editor: The organizations opposed to the proposed Site C dam, like Peace Valley Environmental Association have saved the Province and electricity rate payers billions of dollars, literally. If they had not been informed about the very complex issues surrounding the proposal, from bird migration routes to financial impacts, from agricultural capability to fisheries along the Peace, and from geological formations to other energy options, the Site C stretch would have been flood destroyed thirty years ago.

Part of what allowed their preparation for the BC Utilities Commission Hearing in the early eighties was a small amount of funding through Commission order for intervenors. There hasn’t been another hearing like it since, and the BC Government has decided that the Utilities Commission should not do these reviews anymore. Now BC Hydro has dragged Site C out of the dustbin once again. There is to be a joint federal/provincial review of it. And the provincial Liberals aren’t going to

help with funding this time around. The federal E n v i r o n m e n t a l Assessment Agency has been allocated a specific amount of funding for intervenors that is inversely proportional to the amount of concern expressed by the public. Yes, the more people think that such projects need close examination the less help there is for volunteer and charitable organizations to check Hydro’s numbers and to prepare their own. Over the years Hydro has found it necessary to spend tens of millions of

dollars in their attempt to justify this proposal, to prove its case that it is clean, renewable, economic, and necessary for the province. And yet more people than ever see other options as being better, and see the value of the Peace Valley as being more important than the electricity that would be the only product of flooding. But peoples’ opinions, knowledgeable as they may be, are sometimes not enough. The review process is primarily based on information presented for review. Statistics, observation, deduction, and quali-

ty of presentation are all factors that influence decision makers. Tens of millions can pay for a high quality dog and pony show, but still not deal with the issues as seen by people outside Hydro’s Vancouver tower. Long time Peace Valley resident and Site C opponent Leo Rutledge characterized the PVEA’s efforts as ‘peddling pies for pennies,’ trying to raise money for the fight that would save us billions. But the PVEA gained the credibility needed to qualify for funding before the BCUC Site C Hearings, and we are much better off now

economically and ecologically because of that. Our governments shouldn’t be risking such an important decision solely on their analysis of material presented by a company desperate to build one last dam. There is a time for fairness in a debate and now is the time. Both governments need to see that this process comes to the right decision. The biggest factor affecting this is having some fairness in presentation through funding for groups that need it. Randal Hadland Fort St. John

C het w y nd Echo

6 December 2, 2011

District of Chetwynd Inaugural Council Meeting

Busted

The District of Chetwyndʼs Inaugural Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 6, 2011, at 4:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The recently elected members will be sworn into office and take their Council seats. A short reception with refreshments will follow. All members of the Public are cordially invited to attend and we encourage you to join us on this special occasion.

Chetwynd RCMP surround a truck in the parking lot of Fields Friday evening after stopping the driver for erratic driving. According to RCMP the driver, who became very upset, was found to be under the influence of alcohol. The driver was also found to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana. He received a roadside prohibition and the vehicle was impounded. Photo by Naomi Larsen

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2242 GUILLET SUB

6646 LAKESHORE DRIVE

6493 WILDMARE SUB

2682 JACKFISH SUB

SO L D

4513 44 AVE

Nice location close to town. This rural location boasts a nice log bunkhouse for guests to stay in. The manufactured home is bright and spacious, with a nice eat in kitchen. With 220 amp servic. The property has a chicken coop and horse enclosure.

$208,000 MLS 134028

5 bedroom home in Moberly Lake. Hhigh end appliances. Walk-in Pantry. 2 bay windows overlooking the front yard-one in kitchen and one in livingroom. Huge livingroom with lots of light. Quality bathrooms. Patios and rock work.

$395,000 MLS 133990

Spacious home on over 10 acres. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, Woodstove in basement. Hot tub sits 6-8 people. Spring fed water and 80x150 finished horse arena, 12x14 barn with hay storage attached. Fully fenced backyard for kids and pets. Features outdoor deck and underground sprinklers.

$349,900 MLS 133780

Mobile on 4.93 acres. Acreage is flat, in a quiet area on a no thru road. This home is a 2 bedroom and could be 3. 2 piece ensuite . 4 appliances - fridge, stove, washer and dryer. There is a 24 x 48 shop with a 16 ft. ceiling. 16 x 20 workshop on the property.

$173,000 MLS 133991

Your choice business or just the building. Chetwynd Auto body is a well established business 75 x 150 steel building with five 16 ft over head doors. Full-y equipped body shop. Turn key operation. Call for full details.

$1,250,000 MLS 133944

HWY 29 S

4725 WABI CRESCENT

4741 48A ST

5265 TRICKER ROAD

4609 47 AVE

2 Parcels of Land for Sale Lot 2 - 4.62 acres $36,000 MLS 129713 Lot 3 - 4.62 acres $34,000 MLS 129712

Situated across from Natural Springs Golf Course on S. Hwy 29, lots are comparatively level to sloping and have a good view. Call for full details.

Charming house with hardwood flooring, needs a little TLC. A nice large backyard to enjoy the summer time days. The back deck is large, measuring 20'x16'. An easy walk to the rec centre, library and schools.

$160,000 MLS 133459

5 Acres of vacant land 1/2 block off of the main highway, just behind KFC. Zoned MI- Light Industrial! Owners will consider renting or leasing this property. Contact the listing office for more information.

$449,000 MLS 134143

Less than 5 minutes from Chetwynd. 3 bedrooms up and 2 down. 2 baths. 2 decks - one on the front of the house and a large deck at the back 24 x 12. Hot tub outside. Spring fed well, Upgraded windows. New siding, new shingles. 200 amp service.

$339,000 MLS 133015

This compact house still boasts some nice sized bedrooms. All this on one floor for easy cleaning and up keep. For all those wanting to socialize the Pub is close by so you don't have to worry about drinking and driving. Close to the desirable Crown Sub without the high prices.

$148,000 MLS 133374

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3747 BEDELL DRIVE

5224 42ND STREET

2201 HILLSIDE RD

6942 S. MOBERLY LK RD

6307 CAMPBELL ROAD

Master bedroom has an ensuite and walk-in closet. Pantry in the kitchen, a circular drive for easy access to and from the place. You can watch time go by on the large 12'x30' porch. An area is cleared and ready for a shop or garage to be built.

$230,000 MLS 133581

3 bedrooms on main floor and 2 in the basement, plus a den. Includes new appliances. Recent renovations include main bath, new energy efficient windows, siding, insulation, exterior doors, recently painted, new shingles.

$269,000 MLS 133343

1500 sq.ft. 1 + 2 bedroom home, on 12.33 acres. Spacious kitchen, ceramic flooring, laminate. Living quarters are on the upper level of building. Garage and large workshop. 200 Amp. Service. Full length lean-to on south side of building for storage. Deep well-seller states good water.

$369,900 MLS 133575

110 Feet of waterfront property. 1152 Square foot home set up on a full basement. Cozy woodstove in basement. (Wett inspected in 2010). Sit out on your deck and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Moberly Lake. Includes a 24 x 16 guest cabin plus a boat house on the lake.

$375,000 MLS 130355

1.6 acres with a small 2 bedroom home, with a view of the valley. Cozy woodstove in living room. Lots of flowers, garden spot and fruit trees. Large workshop, garden shed and chicken coop. With a bit of tender loving care this could be your new home.

$125,000 MLS 133866

7267 PINEWOOD PLACE

4165 GAGNON RD

PINE PARK SUB 52ND AVE

1240 sq. ft. home on the north side of Moberly Lake. Great home with large windows facing the lake. 3 bedrooms up and 1 down, 2 and a half baths. Laminate and ceramic tile flooring. Walk-in basement, huge recreation room with cozy pellet stove. Metal roof recently installed.

$425,000 MLS 129065

149 Acres with a large 4 bedroom 3 bath home. The home features a large kitchen with an island and a dining area. Cozy livingroom with wood stove. The bedrooms are all upstairs with 2 baths up, one being an ensuite. Metal roof.

$349,000 MLS 130289

Five residential lot available in Pine Park Subdivision. These lots are fully serviced with water and sewer. Just waiting for you to build on.

MLS 133495 & 133497 $30,800 each

5016 49 AVE

6172 WEST KURJATA RD

MLS 133491, 133493, 133496 $36,300 each

Great Location in the desirable downtown area, with zoning allowing for an attached residence to live in. This property has a lot of possibilities with other businesses close by; would make a great location for a business and you could live on the premises.

$35,500 MLS 133653

Manufactured home boasts three good size bedrooms. Living room has patio doors leading out to large deck. Large shop 38’x44’ with two 11’/12’ doors. Dog run. Rural seclusion.

$225,000 MLS 133419

C het w y nd Echo

December 2, 2011

Don’t forget to donate this year 2011 Santa Claus project underway said the society put together 196 hampers last year, including toys and gifts at a cost of $20,000. The hampers included everything needed for Christmas from an entire turkey dinner to brand new wrapped gifts for the children. The hamper project has been a part of Chetwynd for more than four decades and in 2003 the group became an official society to make things easier for everyone involved. The Santa Claus Project is one of the community’s biggest fundraisers of the year with all proceeds remaining local. The society is funded solely through donations as well as their annual Community Events calendar that began last year. Donations of non-perishable good items, unwrapped toys and clothing

can be dropped off at any one of the donations bins around town including – but not limited to – the Chetwynd Echo, Lakeview Credit Union, Bargain Store, CIBC, IGA, Super Valu or any of the local churches. The boxes are monitored and emptied weekly. Tax deductible receipts are given for all donations. Applications can be picked up at any of the local churches, the TLC thrift shot or the Women’s Resource centre. Application cutoff is Dec. 6. The hampers will be packed on Dec. 17 at the Pine Valley Seniors Hall starting at 4:30 p.m. Delivery is the next day. To make a donation or volunteer your time to help pack or deliver hampers call Shirley Weeks at 250-788-3672 or Karen Stewart at 250-788-3171

warm, starry night And enjoyed the weather, the decfriends spent money and revived orations and holiday sights Chetwynd’s downtown, it’s our I filled up my Shop Local bag with town's heart and soul presents and gifts Right up there with forestry, And crossed off each name from tourism and coal. our (albeit short...) Christmas list. So as I wandered downtown that Then I walked back to my car and

headed for home I really had hoped more people would have enjoyed our biome. My only advice to the people out there? Please support local businesses and show that you care!

BY NAOMI LARSEN Chetwynd Echo Editor –––––––––––––– CHETWYND – The Chetwynd Christmas Bureau Society’s Annual Santa Claus Project is underway for 2011. Donation boxes are set up at various locations around town and organizers are looking to have those boxes filled time and time again throughout the season. With the holiday season around the corner many families in Chetwynd are not able to enjoy celebrations due to health, unemployment, low income or other family crises. The Society allows the community to lend a hand to those who are less fortunate. Society President Karen Stewart

Do you have your Shop Local bag? Continued from page 4

r u o y d Sen letter a t n a S to ing his list, Santa’s mak he gets yours! so make sure

Thank you

The Graham Family would like to convey our heartfelt thanks to the many supporters who expressed their sympathy in the loss of our loved one. Shop Easy & Staff Tumbler Ridge First responders & Hospital Team Chetwynd Intensive Care Unit Doctors and Nurses Dawson Creek RCMP Dawson Creek Bergeron Funeral Services Dawson Creek Pastor Bill Evans Chetwynd Baptist Church Chetwynd

A very special thanks to management and staff at the Chetwynd Super Value, Lynn Way of Tumbler Ridge Shop Easy for her beautiful flower arrangement, the Chetwynd Mud Boggers for their Roaring Engine Salute and any others we have missed. The generosity of donations toward Kerriʼs Boyʼs school fund has been overwhelming.

We are forever grateful,

Kerri’s Loved Ones

Mail your letter to us by December 12th, and we’ll make sure it appears in our Letters to Santa special section on December 23rd, with a copy delivered to Santa himself! Kids! Let your parents and teachers know!

Mail Letters to: Santa c/o The Chetwynd Echo 5016 50th Avenue Box 750 Chetwynd, BC, V0C 1J0 Please remember to include your first name and age on your letter!

Or, email your letter to editor@chetwyndecho.net

C het w y nd Echo

8 December 2, 2011

St o c k U p E a r ly F o r Ch ri s tm a s & G et in on Th e Xm as G i ve Aw a y s !

AT M u r r a y s ’s L i q u o r Express ON S AW LAY R D ISP D

MOLSON CANADIAN BAUER HOCKEY STICK , HOCKEY BAG

CORONA EXTRA SNOWBOARD BUDWEISER FOOSBALL TA B L E 32” T V & DV D

P L AY E R

District considering water meter exemption for medical purposes

BY N AOMI L ARSEN Chetwynd Echo Editor –––––––––––––– CHETWYND – The District of Chetwynd is preparing a policy regarding exemptions for the cost of water and sewer services used for medical purposes following a request from home dialysis patient Carrie Mosher. In a letter to council Mosher explained that she had been diagnosed with end stage renal failure requiring hemodialysis four times per week.

“As there is no hemodialysis unit in Chetwynd, I do my own hemopdialysis at home which I have been doing since March 2010,” she said. “Dialysis is a life sustaining therapy for me and without it I will not survive.” Mosher said home hemodialysis requires a large amount of water usage during her treatments which has greatly increased her water rates. She also informed council that the City of Dawson Creek has recently exempted home hemodialysis patients from metered water rates.

Giants come home with gold

TURN HERE.

Submitted –––––––––––––– CHETWYND – Chetwynd Three Nations Ventures Midget Giants won 102 in High Level on Saturday and came

back from 2-0 to tie the Smokey River team 2-2 on Sunday. They will be attending a tournament in MacKenzie Dec. 10th and 11th and the next home game is December 18th.

ough times

“ ALL DRAWN ON DEC 22 “ Staff & Managment would like to wish all our Patrons a Happy & Safe xmas Cheers!! season

Murrays Liquor express 9 AM to 11PM 250 788 9590

When you’re out of work and there are fewer jobs to be found, you can count on the Chetwynd Echo to show you the way.

Whether you’re looking for job fairs, resume services or job openings, you can find the information you need to get back on track in you local newspaper.

Chetwynd Echo Newspaper 5016 50th Avenue • 250-788-2246 www.chetwyndecho.net

C het w y nd Echo

December 2, 2011

Eel$ cash

•

Kendel Reiswig, Superintendent at Talisman Energy, presents a cheque for $500 to the Chetwynd Electric Eels.

Photo dubmitted

Annual Skating Concert

“The Little Giant Figure Skating Club is once again inviting the community to attend their Annual Christmas Pop Concert Sunday, Dec. 18. It is a tradition for LGFSC and it is a community fundraiser for the local food bank. There are 40 skaters of all ages busy at the rink preparing for their routines to favorite Christmas tunes. Admission will be by cash or food donation to the food bank. Photo submitted

“All sports must be treated on the basis of equality.”

- Pierre de Coubertin

Moonlight Madness

December 9th Get A Headstart On Your Holiday Shopping !

•Super Valu •Your Dollar Store With More •Lonestar Sporting 6:00-10:00 Goods PM •Grindz 'n' Bindz •EXIT Apparel •Subway •The Bargain! Shop For every $20 •Peoples Drug you spend at the participating Mart businesses, you •IGA •Buds 'n Baskets can enter your name into a draw •Laurie's for a $500 Chetwynd Shopping Spree! When we shop local, everyone wins!

C het w y nd Echo

10 December 2, 2011

Prince George area adrift from avalanche warning

Alaska Highway News â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PRINCE GEORGE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; There is a landslide of

avalanche information George region - the region from some regions of the with the first avalanche province, but not even a fatality in B.C. this winter. flurry in the Prince The Canadian

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Avalanche Centre (CAC) cannot find reliable sources of snow data from the mountains around Prince George, and it is the chronic shortage that puts lives at higher risk compared to neighbouring mountain regions. The CAC's Public Avalanche Warning Service manager Karl Klassen said he's been puzzling with the problem for years. "I've been with the avalanche centre since 2005 the year after it's inception - and it was the discussion back then and it has not changed since then," he said. "The Northern Rockies is a bit of a dead area for us. We get almost no information." The CAC's website is updated constantly based on weather data, staff research and a great deal of third party information called in to them. Klassen said some of that was anecdotal evidence provided by snowmobilers and other backcountry users, but most of it and the best of it comes in from committed professionals who are out in the backcountry working for mining firms, forestry companies, government

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Northern

Rockies are a bit of a dead area for us.â&#x20AC;? departments, heliskiing operators, etc. They are certified, experienced and highly qualified to assess the avalanche conditions they observe. Some regions, said Klassen, had 40 to 50 reliable data sources. The Northern Rockies has five or six at best. "There are lots of eyes and ears and cameras out there, but we need it to be professional-grade information," he said, because the CAC cannot afford to allow misinformation on their part to put the public at risk or undermine their credibility (and hence public safety). The bulk of the information from the greater Prince George region comes from CN Rail's trackline assessments and stakeholders along the Highway 16 artery through to Jasper, Klassen

quick

explained. The Highway 97 route - towns like Chetwynd, Tumbler Ridge, Mackenzie and the Pine Pass - had little or zero data to work with from day to day. "It is a serious problem," he said. "We are all working on it. There should be regular, dependable avalanche forecasts for that area. The stakeholders want that, the provincial government wants that, but it is a daunting undertaking. Across the province, thanks to our providers, we are getting millions of dollars of data for free. The CAC just doesn't have the money to pay for that information. So how do we get professional field validation from a place where there are few or no professionals?" British Columbia typically loses 15 people each year due to avalanches. The winter of 2010-11 saw 11 deaths and 2010-09 had 12 so Klassen was pleased to see recent trends on the lesser side of the average. With a victim already this season, however, he urged the public to venture into the backcountry with great caution if the body count was to be reduced again this season.

The latest job openings 24/7.

Access them in the Classifieds anytime, anywhere!

Chetwynd Echo

www.chetwyndecho.net

C het w y nd Echo

December 2, 2011

Hudson’s Hope has high voter turnout

The Northerner –––––––––––––– Hudson's Hope had an exciting municipal election, experiencing one of the highest voter turnouts in Northeast B.C. and welcoming three new faces to their seven-person council. Mayor Karen Anderson will return as mayor after being voted in by acclamation with no one running against her. Anderson initially thought she may not run in this election, but ultimately decided to out of love for her community. She said that she felt that she would have been letting the small community

down if she only served one term as mayor. "Around the community, I had a lot of people saying that they hoped that I would run again," said Anderson. "I'd like to think it's because people are comfortable with what I'm doing and are pleased with the direction of council that I've taken in Hudson's Hope." For the council race, seven people including four who sat on council during the last term ran. The final results saw three previous councilors win their seats again and three new people gain seats. "Change is always nice,"

Submitted –––––––––––––– North Peace Branch BC SPCA The North Peace SPCA, as requested at the September 22nd meeting, made a presentation to the Regional District Board in order for directors to gain a regional perspective on animal welfare services provided to the region. Peter Havlik, Director of the BC SPCA (Northern Region), and Rosalyn Kalb, Shelter Manager of the North Peace SPCA, presented a comparison of facilities and services of the South and North Peace operations. The North Peace SPCA

supports the South Peace SPCA with their request for funding from all the municipalities and regions in its service area. Mr. Havlik outlined that the business case for building or acquiring a new facility in Dawson Creek requires assurance of annual operational funding as a first step, which they seek from local government partners. The North Peace SPCA’s presentation can be found on the PRRD website under the “Board” and “Meeting” tabs.

“I think Hudsonʼs Hope is on the verge of a real growth out here and itʼs exciting times for us.”

ANDERSON

said Anderson. "I think we have three really eager people that are going to bring something different to the table."

The three returning councilors are Travous Quibell with 157 votes, Darryl Johnson with 157 votes, and Gwen

ing the diversion and use of provincial water resources. Established in 1909, B.C.’s Water Act is the primary piece of water management legislation and plays a key role in the sustainability of B.C.’s water. The PRRD board provided its input into the Water Act Modernization, for which the draft legislation will be introduced in 2012. Given the importance of water to the region, the Board expanded its “Water Committee” terms of reference to encompass the full scope Water Act of water stewardship for Modernization the region. Active water The Water Act is the applications in the region principal law for manag- are found on the Ministry

of Environment website at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/ wsd/water_rights/licence_ap plication/index.html or the Oil & Gas Commission site at: http://www.bcogc.ca.

Johansson with 234 votes. The newly-elected council members are local mother Nicole Gilliss with 210 votes, local teacher David Heiberg with 230 votes and Kelly Miller, a young man who has grown up in Hudson's Hope, with 200 votes. Hudson's Hope was also home to one of the highest municipal election voter turnouts in the Northeast, with 54.9 per cent of their 522 eligible voters coming out to cast a ballot "It's really exceptional, and it really just goes to show you the type of people who live in Hudson's Hope. They really have a

lot of concern for our community and a lot of interest in the community, and they want to see things move ahead in the right direction," said Anderson. According to Anderson, the new council will be tasked with planning for the anticipated growth of Hudson's Hope with the new mining projects that have been announced for the area. She said that they will need a plan for infrastructure work and attracting people to the area. "I think Hudson's Hope is on the verge of real growth out here, and it's exciting times for us," said Anderson.

(City of Fort St. John) · Director Larry White (District of Tumbler Ridge) A special thanks goes to Director Tim Caton, one of PRRD’s longest serving directors. Tim was an alternate director from

1990-1996 and then served as a director from 1996 onward. During his 21 years of elected official service, Director Caton has served on more than 28 committees or appointments.

Peace River Regional District board briefs Elections 2011 News Several of our valued and hardworking directors will be retiring from the Peace River Regional District Board in December. We wish the following directors the very best in their retirement from local government service and duties: · Director Tim Caton (Electoral Area ‘E’) · Director Evan Saugstad (District of Chetwynd) · Director Bruce Lantz

WWW.CHETWYNDECHO.NET FIND US ONLINE AT

Happy 17th Bir thday

Caleb Larsen

Enjoy your birthday kiddo, Indeed weʼll see you do, This comes with love (and a promise) from parents and little sis too.

Luv: Mom, Dad and Aayla

December 2, 2011

C het w y nd Echo

South Peace Tourism numbers take a dip

BY JOEI WARM –––––––––––––– SOUTH PEACE – The number of tourists travelling to Dawson Creek this summer was affected by the torrential rain in June and July, but not all attractions saw a dip in visitors. Pioneer Village and the N.A.R Station Museum Visitor Centre both saw a decline in visitors, while the number of tourists at

the Alaska Highway House jumped. Dawson Creek also saw an increase of people travelling to the city by group bus tours. Around 3,760 people stopped by the Pioneer Village visitor centre this summer, a dramatic drop of 20 per cent from last year. Rain flooded areas of the village during June and

July, particularly affecting neighbouring man-made Rotary Lake. The cement pool had to be drained and cleaned after the floods. The heavy rain made roads leading to Dawson Creek impassible as construction crews worked to repair them. The N.A.R. Station Museum Visitor Centre saw eight per cent less people than last year. The number of tourists dropped from 16,800 to 15,500. This is due to tourists stopping at other visitor centres - particularly in Chetwynd - to check road conditions before heading to Dawson Creek, said Dawson Creek tourism

development co-ordinator Dustin Bodnaryk. A portion of the road in the Pine Pass just before Chetwynd was washed out by the abnormally heavy rain, leading to long and causing delays tourists to be weary of road conditions. "Once you stop at a visitor centre in one place, you don't have to stop at all of them along your journey," he said. "Just because they didn't stop by the Dawson Creek visitor centre, doesn't mean they're not stopping in the city." Many people stop in Dawson Creek to mark the beginning of their journey up the Alaska Highway.

Alaska Highway House, located adjacent the Mile 0 Post, saw nine per cent more visitors in 2011. Around 600 more people visited the educational attraction this year than last year. The number of visitors coming to Dawson Creek in busses increased this year by 14 per cent. Around 1,100 people travelled this way in 2011. About 146,000 people stay overnight in Dawson Creek each year. In 2008, the contributed $54.9 million to the city. Tourists usually spend around $91.5 million in the South Peace, compared to $73 million in the North Peace.

Marilyn Peats August 31, 1946 December 6, 2005

A million times we needed you, A million times we cried,

F ore ve r i n ou r h ea rts

If love alone would have saved you, You would of never died.

Some may think you are forgotten,

Though on earth you are no more, But in our memory you are with us. As you always were before. It broke our hearts to lose you,

In life we loved you dearly,

Pounding the pavement in search of a new job? Start checking the classified job listings. You’ll zero in on the right opportunities in no time.

The Chetwynd Echo Newspaper

5016 50th Avenue • 250-788-2246 www.chetwyndecho.net

In death we loved you still, In our hearts you hold a place, No one can ever fill.

A light from our household is gone, A voice from our love is stilled, A place in our vacant home, Which never can be filled.

But you did not go alone, A part of us went with you,

The day God called you home.

Your precious memories are for keepsakes, with which we never part, God has you safely in his keeping, But we have you forever in our hearts.

Love always,

Michele and Curt, Rae and Ed

Sandy and Lorna,

Jeris and Deana and Families.

WINTER TOURISM While Dawson Creek definitely doesn't see the typical summer hoards of American tourists travelling in RVs pass during the winter months, tourism is still alive and well in the city. A different demographic of visitors is seen during the colder months. Tourists tend to travel to Dawson Creek from shorter distances, according to Bodnaryk. "When we define what a visitor or tourist is, we say someone who has travelled between a 40- to 50kilometre radius." This included people from the B.C. and Alberta Peace Region who come to Dawson Creek to visit attractions and spend money in the city. People travel from Alberta to see events at the EnCana Centre all year round, Bodnaryk said. Tourists are also drawn to the Kenn Borek Aquatic Centre and for regional Ski-dooing, Bodnaryk said tourists can have a hard time finding a place to stay because most hotels are constantly booked. But visitors typically don't find it as hard to find a place to rest during the summer because many travel in RVs, he said. In addition, he added, hotels are busier from October to March because of oil and gas workers needing a place to stay in the area.

“A nickel ain’t worth a dime anymore.” -Yogi Berra

C het w y nd Echo

Charges could still be a long way off despite decision endorsing polygamy law

TRAIL DAILY TIMES –––––––––––––– VANCOUVER – It could still be some time before anyone in the obscure polygamous commune of Bountiful, B.C., faces renewed charges of polygamy, despite a landmark court decision that found Canada's antipolygamy law is constitutional. A B.C. Supreme Court judge ruled Wednesday that the harms associated with polygamy outweigh any claims to religious freedom, and therefore the Criminal Code section banning multiple marriage is valid. But the case appears destined for an appeal, likely to the Supreme Court of Canada, and observers disagree about whether that should cause prosecutors to think twice before laying any new charges against residents of the small religious commune that was the focus of the constitutional hear-

ings in the first place. Mary Ellen TurpelLafond, B.C.'s representative for children and youth, urged the attorney general not to wait. "It's clear the court has said that polygamy is a criminal activity," TurpelLafond said in an interview. "The issue for me is the individual child. There is evidence before the court of girls as young as 12 being pledged in marriages to 58-year-old men, so I expect there to be an open criminal investigation." Turpel-Lafond said she understands why prosecutors would still be cautious, particularly with an expected appeal on the horizon. But she argued the court's conclusion that polygamy is inherently harmful to women and children should compel the government to act immediately. She said that should also include separate

child-welfare investigations by the Ministry of Children and Family Development. The case followed more than two decades of scrutiny on Bountiful, where residents openly practise polygamy as a tenet of their faith. The failed prosecution of two of the community's leaders prompted the constitutional reference case. Attorney General Shirley Bond declined to say what her prosecutors might do, but she acknowledged a potential appeal makes that decision more complicated. "It is clear that there will continue to be a responsibility for us to pursue the issues at Bountiful," said Bond. "What form that takes, we will decide over the next period of time. And I have to be very cognisant of the fact that this may end up at the Supreme Court (of Canada), so I'm not going to speculate."

It takes only a second to put your seat belt on … and it could give you the rest of your life. Have you got the time?

www.icbc.com

December 2, 2011

~ In Memory ~ On December 16, the Chetwynd Echo will be publishing our annual supplement “In Memory of our Loved Ones.”

If you would like your loved one included in this special two-page memorial please contact Naomi or Paula at the Chetwynd Echo 250-788-2246 or email production@chetwyndecho.net. Deadline to submit is Tuesday, December 13 at noon. A photo, dates and short personal message will be published. Cost is a donation to the Christmas Bureau Society Let us help you remember your loved ones this holiday season Adopt the Boulevard Trees

Anyone can adopt a Tree starting from Chetwynd Recreation Centre to the end of North and South Access Roads. Adopting a tree, will cost $100.00 for the first year and $50.00 each additional year. The Tree will be lit with white lights and in the front of each tree that is sponsored will be a ‘North Pole Sign’ with the sponsor’s name. The sponsor can be a business, resident or in memory of a loved one. To register, contact the District Office at 401-4113.

Deck the Halls Christmas Market Thursday, December 1st, 2011

At the Chetwynd Public Library. Market opens at 4:00 – 8pm with live action, social & refreshments from 6:00 8:00p.m. Chainsaw sculptures donated by Blaine Brake and Ken Sheen. Silent auction items will be on display from November 28th – December 1st, 2011. All proceeds to support free programs & special events at the Public Library.

December 2, 2011

C het w y nd Echo

Gordon Lightfoot performs with his band at the Encanca Event Centre in Dawson Creek Thursday. Photo by Mile0City

Canadian legend Gordon Lightfoot lights up Encana Centre

H oliday Recipe Guide The Chetwynd Echo’s

Look for our Holiday Recipes appearing in this newspaper on December 23. It’s going to be chock full of sweet surprises, from cookies and cakes to candy and other confections. You’ll also find a sampling of sugar-free and low-calorie recipes to try. This year’s Holiday Recipe Guide is better than ever, so keep your eyes open for it! Submit a recipe today: production@chetwyndecho.net

BY MILE0CITY –––––––––––––– DAWSON CREEK – Dawson Creek took a trip back in time last night as Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot took the stage at the EnCana Events Centre. The folk-rock legend performed a roster of his greatest hits, as well as some fan favourites. While he may be 73 years old, Lightfoot still has the mind of a young

touring artist. The musician interacted with the crowd in between songs, regaling with stories, giving the occasional thumbs up and telling jokes, even calling one audience member a "weiner" for spoiling the end of a song. The show lasted two hours, with a short intermission, and even included an outfit change. Playing his own guitars, including his infamous 12string, Lightfoot was

accompanied by a fourperson band, including another guitarist, a bassist, a keyboard player and a percussionist. While the average age of the audience was clearly 50 plus, several young children and 20 year olds could be spotted singing along, proving his fans span multiple generations. The last time Lightfoot performed in the Mile 0 City was 1967, for the province's centennial.

Put your classified ad in the paper for FREE!! With the Chetwynd Echo’s free local classifieds.

December 2, 2011

C het w y nd Echo

Jackson’s doctor gets 4 years in jail: could be less

EDMONTON JOURNAL –––––––––––––– LOS ANGELES – Michael Jackson's doctor Conrad Murray was jailed for the maximum four years Tuesday over the star's 2009 death, as a judge lashed the medic's behaviour as "money-formedicine madness." Judge Michael Pastor also said Murray should pay compensation to Jackson's family, although he made no ruling on a prosecution call for the amount to be set at $100 million, putting off a decision until January. Jackson's mother Katherine hailed the sentencing, but added: "Four years is not enough for someone's life. "Four years won't bring my son back, but that's the law so - I thank the judge," she said, adding: "At least he got the maximum. I thought the judge was very, very fair." In reality the medic -

convicted of involuntary manslaughter three weeks ago - could spend much less than the four years behind bars, notably due to California's prison overcrowding, prosecutors warned. Pastor, giving a scathing summary of the case against the 58-year-old doctor, said: "It should be made very clear that experimental medicine is not going to be tolerated. "And Mr. Jackson was an experiment. The fact that he participated in it does not excuse or lessen the blame of Dr. Murray who simply could have walked away and said no as countless others did. "Dr. Murray was intrigued by the prospect and he engaged in this money-for-medicine madness that is simply not going to be tolerated by me," he added. Murray was found guilty on Nov. 7 after giving Jackson an overdose of

the powerful hospital anesthetic, propofol, on June 25, 2009 at the star's plush Holmby Hills mansion. The drug was purportedly to help the singer fight chronic insomnia. The trial heard evidence that Murray was on the phone with a series of girlfriends at the crucial time Jackson was on his deathbed, and that he delayed calling 911 and failed to tell paramedics what he had given the star. Jackson, aged 50 at the time of his death, had hired Murray at a salary of $150,000 a month to look after him as he rehearsed and embarked on a series of This is It planned comeback shows in London. The judge said he agreed that Murray should have to pay restitution to Jackson's estate and three children, and scheduled a new hearing for Jan. 23. The prosecution had asked for Murray to pay $100 million to compensate

Jackson's family for the lost earnings the singer would have made from the London comeback shows. Defence lawyer Michael Flanagan said the amount of compensation set was academic, since Murray could not pay. "Everything over a couple of dollars he's not going to have the ability to pay anyway," he said. Murray's actual time behind bars in an L.A. County jail is likely to be much less than four years, as the L.A. County Sheriff typically cuts jail terms due to prison overcrowding and other issues. The judge noted that Murray had already served 46 days, while L.A. district attorney Steve Cooley warned his "sentence might be very short," noting that actress Lindsay Lohan recently spent just five hours in jail for a 30day term. Defence lawyer Flanagan, asked how

r u o y d Sen letter a t n a S to ing his list, Santa’s make he gets yours! so make sur

Murray would cope with his jail time, said: "He's an honourable man, and he will get through it." In a statement read in court before sentence was passed, Jackson's family said it was not seeking revenge. "As Michael's parents we could never have imagined that we would live to

witness his passing. It is simply against the natural order of things," it said. "As his brothers and sisters we will never be able to hold, laugh or perform again with our brother Michael. And as his children we will grow up without a father, our best friend, our playmate and our dad."

With The Little Giant 258 Air Cadet Squadron would like to thank:

Subway, Northern Lights College, Lonestar Sporting Goods, SuperValu, NIS, KFC, Cardinal Telecom, Thrift Store, Home Hardware, Grindz n' Bindz, Rein-in-Tack, Classie, Groomers, Naomi Larsen Photography, Chetwynd Redi Mix, Pine River Holdings,Spectra Energy, Pomeroy, Chetwynd Health and Book, Nook, Valley Pure Water, All West Glass, Chetwynd Glass,The Pencil Box, Exit Apparel, Talisman Energy, BJ's, Kevin & Emily Berg, Butcher Block, Larsen Construction, Software Emporium, South Peace Chiropractic, Brass Sissors, Candy's Creative Photos, Mr. Mikes, Anne Kaulback, Diane Mallia, Jim Derby & CIBC.

Mail Letters to: Santa c/o The Chetwynd Echo 5016 50th Avenue Box 750 Chetwynd, BC, V0C 1J0 Please remember to include your first name and age on your letter!

Or, email your letter to editor@chetwyndecho.net

December 2, 2011

C het w y nd Echo

Completion rates for Peace River South aboriginal students above provincial average

DAWSON CREEK DAILY NEWS –––––––––––––– CHETWYND – A recent public release from the Ministry of Education indicates that the graduation rate for grade 12 aboriginal students is on the rise, with Peace River South district boasting above average numbers. The study done every year on the completion rate for all major student sub-populations - male, female, Aboriginal, ESL and special needs - reveals that the graduation rate of aboriginal students across the province has increased

from 50.4 per cent in 2009/10 to 53.7 per cent for the years 2010/11. Rates for Peace River South show a 61.2 per cent graduation rate for aboriginal students. It was also reported that the provincial completion rate increased to highest level yet at 81 per cent. "It is encouraging to see these numbers trending upwards for all student populations," said Education Minister ABBOTT George Abbott. "I am especially pleased to see "While there is a great increases in completion deal of work to be done, rates among aboriginal this is a step in the right students." direction and shows that

"Historically in our district and across the province as well, grad rates for aboriginal stuIt is encourag- dents has been far below ing to see these the average of non-aboriginal students," said Caron numbers trend- Jones Vice-Principal of ing upwards for Aboriginal Education for Peace River South, who all student made note of the fact that populations. many new initiatives and ideas have been attempted in past years with little or no improvement. "We were sinking to pretty much an all-time districts are effectively low," declared Jones, engaging Aboriginal stu- regarding prior compledents and helping to sup- tion rates. "A trend that port their success." has been there for some

“

”

time." The increase in graduation rates is a considerable climb from the last five years where an average of 51 per cent of Peace River South aboriginal students were completing high school, with a low of 45.7 experienced in 2009/10. Jones cannot say for sure if the recent numbers are correlated with the implementation of new programs to the aboriginal education program, but it is definitely a positive outcome. Please see "61.2 per cent," page 17

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C het w y nd Echo

61.2 per cent grad rate Continued from page 16

"We started some interventions last year, and we're thrilled with the increase, but we can't say for sure the cause behind it," said Jones, who mentioned there have been fluctuations in numbers over the years but also considerable drops, declaring that she hopes the new numbers are a sign of a future incline, reiterating the point that there is still a long way to go to bring aboriginal rates up to non-aboriginal averages. Jones acknowledged the addition of new teaching models to the Aboriginal Education Program as a possible cause behind the rising numbers, but she would not entirely attribute the numbers to new implementations, without further proof. Looking forward, the aboriginal education department has overhauled its program to implement new practices, with some being initiated last year, to improve aboriginal grad rates under the Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement, a partnership between SD 59, Ministry of Education, and the Dawson Creek and Chetwynd

Candlelight Vigil

Aboriginal Education Advisory Councils, agreed to by its members June 2011. Included in the current Aboriginal Education Program (ABED), but brought forth last year, is the Grad and Grade Coaching module, which Jones regards, even after one year, as a constructive initiative and looks forward to seeing its success rate in the future. "What [Grad Coaching] really means is making deliberate connections with [aboriginal students] with immediate interventions," described Jones, who said the program encourages teachers and support staff to oversee and guide students' path to graduation. Julie Hamilton - who heads the Grad Coaching program at Dawson Creek Secondary - also wouldn't speculate about the cause behind the new grad rates, but added that the response from students and parents has been encouraging. "I feel like there was definitely some positive connections being made between the parents and the kids and we are hopeful that the trend obviously continues," said Hamilton.

A candlelight vigil was held downtown Friday night during the community light up in memory of resident and District Councillor Joanne Roberts. Roberts was an avid proponent of the Communities in Bloom/Winterlights competiPhoto by Naomi Larsen tion.

December 2, 2011

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December 2, 2011

C het w y nd Echo

Wyatt Mallia, Alisha Derhousoff, Don Lasser and Wade Collins

If quality, trust and professionalism are important to you, then there’s only one choice; North Country Rebuilders Ltd. Located one kilometer down Jackfish Lake Road, North Country Rebuilders Ltd is the place to go to get your vehicle worked on by some of the best mechanics in town.

After more than 20 years of serving the community, you can expect satisfaction and dependability with each visit. Owner Don Lasser has over 28 years of experience in the mechanical field. Wade Collins a certified technician and authorized inspector, brings his 30 years of

LIONS RECYCLING DEPOT HOURS OF OPERATION

Please be advised that the hours of operation for the Recycling Depot are as follows:

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cell: 250-401-3362 office: 250-401-4100 fax: 250-401-4101 jshaw@gochetwynd.com

December 2, 2011

C het w y nd Echo

186 council meetings & 114 PRRD meetings later The Mayor’s Report

with Evan Saugstad

ecember 6th will be my last day as your Mayor, a day that I have mixed emotions about. Part of me says I am glad to see it come to an end so I can get on with the rest of my life with a bit less work and, hopefully, more time to play. At the same time, sad, as it will mean not being part of Chetwynd and seeing all of you, and doing the things I have enjoyed working on during the past nine years. After attending 186 Council and 114 Peace

River Regional District meetings numerous other committee meetings, and other meetings too numerous to count with citizens and business, other stakeholders and levels of governments, it officially all comes to an end. Looking back, I see a lot more highlights than disappointments, but then again, that is my nature (forget the crap and remember the cake!). In discussions with other politicians from local to provincial to federal, it seems that the most popular opinion is that the job of Mayor is the most enjoyable and rewarding position of them all. It is a job where one can see the results of one’s decisions, where one can make a difference and where one can work in a system without

In October, we introduced the Marketing Freedom for Grain Farmers Act, legislation that will give Western farmers the marketing freedom they want and deserve. For far too long, Western Canadian wheat and barley farmers have had no choice when it comes to marketing their product. Hard-working farmers are able to choose what crop to plant, when to plant, when to harvest, and bear all the risk of operating their own farm. And yet, the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) currently controls how these farmers sell their products. We have even seen farmers go

party politics telling you what you have to do (unlike our bigger cities). I learned early just what the job means, what influence and authority a Mayor has. In 2002 there was no parking lot across the street from the Post Office, and on any given afternoon, the street was utter chaos with people trying to find a parking spot to get their mail. I asked why the District

didn’t put in a parking lot on their property, and solve the problem. The response was that we couldn’t as it could be viewed as government assisting business (which is prohibited in the Community Charter). It was also an answer that confirmed why I ran for Mayor. Council was taking its lead from staff, and that needed to be changed. My view was that Council gave the directions and staff did the work. My answer to the parking lot issue was that it would be helping people, and the next year we had a parking lot on our own property. From that day on, the correct answer always seemed to be, do it, if it helps the people of Chetwynd. I was fortunate to be

able to start work with Mike Redfearn as our Administrator. Mike, (God rest his soul) was a person who had the ultimate respect for the system and when one gained his trust, a person that would go to no end to ensure that Council’s directions were followed to the end. He worked hard to ensure that Council’s directions were done, but he also ensured we never crossed the boundaries and got ourselves into trouble. To this day, I still think about him, how he helped me learn to be your Mayor and am still saddened by his early death, which robbed him and his family of the enjoyment of his retirement years. And that alone is one of the major reasons why I end my

career as your Mayor. Life is to live, to enjoy, as we never know when it will end. Don’t wait for tomorrow, as it just may not come. And now is the time to move on. Until Dec. 6th, I can be reached at the Chetwynd District Office at 250-4014102 or via email at esaugstad@gochetwynd.com. After that, if you still want an opinion from an exMayor, give me a call at my new home in Fort St. John at 250-785-9197.

to jail for attempting to sell it. With this new legislation, farmers will be given the choice of whether to sell in an open market, or through the CWB. As I said in a recent statement before the House, we are not killing the CWB, but allowing it to function in an open market – even giving it the tools to compete in this new reality. The BC Grain Producers Association, and its president David Wuthrich, support this move. I had the honour of being a part of a special legislative committee tasked with focusing on this Bill, and I am proud to say that these changes are

coming soon, giving Western farmers the ability to seek contracts for their grains in an open market in the 2011-12 crop year. We have also introduced legislation that will scrap the wasteful and ineffective long-gun registry. Finally, law-abiding hunters, farmers and sport shooters will no longer be treated like criminals for simply owning a rifle or shotgun. The long-gun registry has never enhanced public safety. It has never prevented gun crime; never kept guns out of the hands of criminals; and never made our communities safer.

Furthermore, the registry squanders taxpayer dollars. Despite predicted expenses of $2 million a year, the registry has cost more than $2 billion! By scrapping the longgun registry and its data once and for all, our Government can continue to focus attention and resources on measures that will actually help keep our communities safe. This includes the introduction of the Safe Streets and Communities Act. This legislation contains measures to protect our children from sexual predators, crack down on organized crime and protect the rights of victims.

These are measures that, unlike the long-gun registry, address the real and legitimate concerns of Canadians. I also continue to work on constituent issues and have been pressing forward so that our energy and forestry sectors are competitive. I look forward to continuing to update you on the measures we are taking as we move forward with our strong and stable majority government. If you would like to get in touch with me, please contact my office in Fort St. John at 250-787-1194, Prince George at 250-5617982, or Ottawa at 613947-4524.

“Looking back I

see a lot more highlights than disappointments.”

Editor’s note: Thank you Evan for all your views and columns over the years and keeping the community up to date on the issues. To our readership, incoming Mayor Merlin Nichols will be continuing this column on a weekly basis.

Top priority remains completing economic recovery View from the Hill

with Bob Zimmer

ur Conservative Government continues to deliver results on the issues that matter most to you and Canadians. As always, our top priority remains completing Canada’s economic recovery, however we are also focusing on several key issues, including marketing freedom for farmers, eliminating the long-gun registry, and combating crime.

December 2, 2011

C het w y nd Echo

Pancake Breakfast for the Pine Valley HOGS at the Baptist Church Dec. 3 9 am-12 noon. Admision is a new unwrapped toy/food or cash for the Christmas Bureau Society.

Free English Practice Mondays 9:30 am at Northern Lights College and Wednesdays at 5:30 pm at the Chetwynd Public Library Call 250-788-2559

Little Prairie Heritage Society AGM Dec. 12 @ 1 pm New Blue Sky Restaurant. Everybody Welcome. RSCMMP by Dec. 9 250-788-3672 or 2506

Chetwynd Breastfeeding Support Network meets every Tuesday at 9:30 a.m at the Chetwynd Public Library. Little Giant Air Cadets Mondays at 6:30pm at the Royal Canadian Legion. Ages 12-18. Come on out!

Local Spot light

Pine Valley HOG Pancake Breakfast Dec. 3, 9 am-noon

Homebased Business and Craft Fair at the Pomeroy Hotel banquet room. Dec. 3 10 am-4pm.

Taking Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Pine Valley Seniors Centre Call 250-788-9563

Chetwynd Society for Community Living Board Meeting. First Wednesday of each month. Next meeting is Dec. 7, 2011 at the Community Living House (old Forestry house.)

Pine Valley Seniors Hall weekly activities including Cribbage, Whist, Bingo and Carpet Bowling. Call Anita at 788-5838 for more info. Free coaching courses for snow and hill sports. Call Kristen at Pacific Sport Northern BC at 250-960-5346.

Chetwynd ScotiaBank Bantam Giants vs Spirit River Sat. Dec 17 3:45 at Rec Centre Chetwynd Scotiabank Bantam Giants vs Fort ST. John Rep. Dec 9 at 8pm Rec Centre

Ca tod ll Th e eve ay w Ech i o pu nt an th yo bli sh d we ur f or it ’l FR here l EE !

Chetwynd Chamber of Commerce “The voice of local business”

Turkey Round-Up December 16 at the Chamber!

REMINDER Deadline for the Business Directory is Dec. 16!

Phone: 250 788 3345 Fax 250 788 3655 Box 870 Chetwynd, B.C V0C 1JO www.chetwyndchamber.ca

Proud Sponsor of Community Events

Chamber luncheon at Pomeroy Hotel Dec. 14 - RSVP ASAP Guest Speaker: Blair Lekstrom Call the Chamber to book your spot!

C het w y nd Echo

GET FUZZY

December 2, 2011

Pearls Before Swine

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

DECEMBER 4 Marisa Tomei, Actress (47)

DECEMBER 5 Frankie Muniz, Actor (26) DECEMBER 6 Tom Hulce, Actor (58)

DECEMBER 7 Aaron Carter, Singer (24) DECEMBER 8 Kim Basinger, Actress (58) DECEMBER 9 Donny Osmond, Entertainer (54)

DECEMBER 10 Raven-Symone, Actress (26)

KFC: Always Fresh & Fast KFC Chetwynd 4800 North Access Rd. 250-788-9866

December 2, 2011

C het w y nd Echo

Mobile crane operator course offered in Mackenzie MACKENZIE TIMES â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MACKENZIE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CNC Mackenzie is offering a mobile crane operator course, designed to train people to work for construction and manufacturing companies. Registration is now open for the seven-week apprenticeship program, which begins in January. The course will train students to become efficient in operating hydraulic and conventional friction cranes. "There are a lot of employment opportunities in the mining and oil and gas fields that are

occurring in Chetwynd and the Peace country," said Randall Heidt, CNC Director of Communications and Development. "There are even jobs available in Newfoundland where the starting wage is $27.08/hour. For example, the Long Harbour Employers Association is currently looking for skilled workers from Prince George in local ads. Graduates of this program will also be able to work at Mount Milligan and other mining projects in the area. CNC is the only school in B.C. to offer this program, which will run from Jan. 9, 2012 to Feb. 24, 2012 and consists of three weeks of core theory, two weeks crane theory and two weeks practical lab. When students complete the technical training

exams, they will be required to complete defined work-based competencies. A mobile crane incorporates a telescopic boom and a mobile base or chassis, which allows a suspended load to be raised or lowered. The duties of a mobile crane operator include understanding and practicing safety precautions to protect yourself and others; conducting preoperational inspections, preparing and transporting cranes; assembling and dismantling cranes; performing rigging and set up of cranes; and performing regular maintenance on cranes. Admission requirements include: successful completion of Grade 10 with credit in English and either Principles of Math 10 or MATH 041 or mature status. Prospective students

must also submit a current resume and a submission of experience/ interest in the program and undergo a personal interview with the trades co-ordinator or regional director. "Successful students will be required to work outdoors, sometimes at great heights and have good eyesight and hand/eye coordination," said Warren Jacques, trades program developer at CNC Mackenzie. "They must also possess the ability to communicate well with co-workers to ensure the safety of those on the ground working near your equipment and have the ability to stay calm and cool if things go wrong." Those who are interested the mobile crane operator course are asked to call CNC Mackenzie, 250-9977200 or toll free at 1-877997-4333.

Quality Photo Reprints

Has your picture been published in the Chetwynd Echo? Get your own copy of any picture we have taken of events and news. School concerts, parades, community events.

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We do not sell digital copies of photos. Not all reprints are in full colour.

4x6 $4.99 5x7 $7.99 8x10 $10.99

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Cash strapped woman uses dating site for meals

QMI AGENCY –––––––––––––– A young New York City woman who was having trouble keeping up with skyrocketing rent says she was able to enjoy about $1,200 worth of fancy restaurant meals per month, thanks to a popular dating site. Through an elaborate schedule of dinner dates set up on Match.com, Minerva McGonagall, 23, told Business Insider she was able to eat out five nights a week and let five different men pick up the cheque. She went from spending $500 a month eating alone, to having free meals worth $60 each night. "Before I barely had enough money to pay for food," said McGonagall. "After using Match.com I found I wasn't going into debt anymore." After a while, she got tired of online dating and found a boyfriend. "It was exhausting," she said. "I needed my sleep and I was done playing the game."

Alleged burglar puts up Xmas decorations

QMI Agency –––––––––––––– If every burglar behaved like Terry Trent, breaking and entering wouldn't be such a bad thing. The Vandalia, OH, man is currently being held in a jail for breaking into a family's home Friday and putting up Christmas decorations while they were out. Quoting police, WHIO-TV reported that an 11-year-old child came home and found a stranger sitting on the couch. He immediately called his mother, Tamara Henderson, who was next door,

and she called police. The TV station said police reports indicated that Trent did have a pocket knife and was most likely on bath salts. "The candle was lit on the coffee table, the television was on and very loud, and the candle on the kitchen table was lit," Henderson told WHIO. She added that Trent was polite when he saw her son. "He had said to him, 'I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. I'll get my things and go,'" Henderson told the station.

Woman dies of gunshot wounds 15 years later

QMI Agency –––––––––––––– Officials in the Seattle area have declared a homicide after a woman died last week from a 15-year-old gunshot wound. Lakessha LaShawn Johnson, 34, died Nov. 8 from injuries she sustained in a 1996 shooting, the Seattle Times reported. Police said she was found dead in her home in Kent, a Seattle suburb, but was the victim of a shooting that happened in either Renton or Seattle. "We will be reaching out to both (police) agencies to determine where the original shooting occurred and pass this information on to that agency," police Lieut. Patrick Lowery told the Times.

HOUSE FOR SALE? Do you want to sell your house? Advertise it in the Chetwynd Echo! Echo

PHONE : 250-788-2246 FAX : 250-788-9988

EMAIL: production@chetwyndecho.net

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T HE C HETWYND E CHO

December 2, 2011

Advertising works.

(Youʼre reading this arenʼt you?) Call Tammy at 250-788-2246

Job Opportunity: English Second Language Settlement Assistance Coordinator CHETWYND AND AREA – 20 HOURS PER WEEK, $25.00 PER HOUR, CONTRACT POSITION

Overview: The focus of the ESL Settlement Assistance Program is to provide English language tutoring support to adult immigrant and refugee newcomers in Chetwynd and Area in order to facilitate their social, cultural, economic and political integration into Canada. The successful candidate will work closely with immigrants and other newcomers to identify language & integration needs. S/he will coordinate and provide support for our current volunteer tutors, recruiting and training more as needed. S/he will offer professional development workshops for tutors, develop resources, and organize special events. S/he will manage the ESLSAP budget, adhere to Ministry guidelines for learner intake and program requirements, and submit reports according to Ministry expectations, including proposals for future funding.

We are seeking a candidate with a warm, supportive approach and the following qualifications: • Bachelor's Degree with a focus on education, or related field post-secondary training • Ability to develop rapport with community members from a range of socio-economic, cultural, and educational backgrounds • Experience teaching or tutoring adult learners, and developing learner plans • Experience coordinating or supervising volunteers or staff • Proven ability to work independently, manage projects, and organize events • Strong communication and team-building skills A complete job description is available from the contact below. Please send resume by mail, email or fax to: Literacy Action Plan Working Group, Attn: Fay Asleson, Chetwynd Public Library, Box 1420, Chetwynd, V0C 1J0.

Phone: (250) 788-2559 Fax: (250) 788-2186 email: fasleson@pris.ca

Closing Date: December 16, 2011

and

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TIGER & REAS - We have immediate openings for the following positions at our Slave Lake Manufacturing Plant and Wabacsa Operations in ALBERTA. REAS Industries Ltd. - immediate opening for: FIELD TRANSPORTATION SUPERVISOR responsible for monitoring the transportation processes and ensuring compliance. TIGER & REAS 1) Journeyman Boom Truck Operators 2) Vacuum Truck Mechanics 3) 3rd Year Apprentice Mechanics 4) Journeyman Mechanics 5) Pressure Truck Operators 6) Hydro -Vac Truck Operators 7) Combo/Vacuum Truck Operators 8) Millwrights 9) Finishing Carpenters 10) Class 1 Drivers Competitive wages, benefit package, Camp live-in. Interested parties submit the following: A) An up to date resume for position applying for B) A current 5 year driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s abstract for driving position To: HR@Tigercalcium.com or by fax to HR @ 780-464-0829 NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

ADOPT A DOG

The District of Chetwynd Animal Control department is offering

stray dogs for adoption.

Please pick up an application form at the District office. Office hours are Mon. - Fri., 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. The District does not promise to provide a dog that meets your specific wishes but we do expect to offer a dog that you will like. Please consider this option for the care and protection of innocent animals. Thank you. District of Chetwynd

1-877-304-7344

COTTONWOOD COURT HOUSING Rent geared to income PUT YOUR NAME ON THE LIST

PH: 250-401-8490 FAX: 250-788-1221

ADVERTISING REGULATIONS

The Chetwynd Echo reserves the right to classify ads under appropriate headlines and to set rates therefore and to determine page location. The Chetwynd Echo reserves the right to revise, edit classify or reject any advertisement and to retain any answers directed to the Chetwynd Echo. The Chetwynd Echo cannot be responsible for errors after the first publication of any advertisement. Notice of errors on the first day should immediately be called to the attention of the appropriate advertising department to be corrected in the next available edition. It is agreed by the advertiser requesting space that the liability of the Chetwynd Echo in the event of failure to publish an advertisement or in the event of an error appearing in the advertisement as published, shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for only one incorrect insertion for the portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect or omitted item only, and that there shall be no liability to an event greater than the amount paid for such advertising. Advertisements must comply with the British Columbia Human Rights Act which prohibits any advertising that discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, color, nationality, ancestry or place or origin or because age is between 44 and 65 years unless the condition is justified by a bondable requirement for the work involved.

C het w y nd Echo

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CANCEL YOUR TIMESHARE. No RISK Program STOP Mortgage & Maintenance. Payments Today. 100 per cent Money Back Guarantee. Call us Now. We can Help! 1-88-3565248 HELP WA N TED R E Q U I R E D IM M ED IATELY F ullti me Log Truck Maintenance Mechanic. Top wage and benefits. F ax resume 250-5675329, C all 250-5670028 Pitka Logging Ltd. Vanderhoof, BC. Kal Tire S unshine C oast. Tire service rep ai r/ s al es / s erv i ce. Must have knowledg e/ ex p eri en ce installing/repairing all tires. (P assenger to OTR) Call Joe at 604885-7927 to discuss

yoru experience and expected wages. Email: rjatkal@telus.net.

Wanted for Chetwynd Court Motel. Full-time maintenance person, housekeeper and front desk, manager. Please call 250-788-2271

Ensign R ockwell Servicing. Service Rig Employees required for Grande Prairie Alberta. Exprienced hands in all positions required including: F loorhands, derrickhands, operators, rig managers. Minimum requirements include: Full drivers license and drivers abstract with 6 demerits or less. F or employment opportunities contact by email to: meagn. jean@ensignener gy. com or don. house@ensignenerg y. com. Or fax 1-780539-1993. P hone: 1780-539-6736 Dynamic Industries is seeking full time welder/fabricators at our Prince George Location.

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Hudson’s Hope Investment Limited. (Best Western) is hiring a fulltime 40 hours per week Hotel Front Desk. Wage is $13.22/hour.. Sunday to Thursday from 11 pm to 7 am and various shifts. Some secondary school Some experience in Hotel Front Desk is an asset but not required. Training will be required. Duties: Maintain an inventory of vacancies, reservations and room assignments, registers arriving guests and assign rooms. Answer enquiries regarding hotel services and registration by letter, by telephone and in person, provide information about services available in the community and respond to guests complaints. Compile and check daily record sheets, guest accounts, receipts and vouchers using computerized or manual systems. Present statements

of charges to departing guests nad receive payment. Please fax resume to 250-783-2301 and apply in person from 9am to 4 pm at 9006 Clarke Avenues Hudson’s Hpe BC, near Fort St. John BC.

Hudson’s Hope Investment Limited (Best Western) is hiring a fulltime: 40 hours per week Kitchen Helper. Wage: $13.22 per hour. Shifts: Monday to Friday 11am - 7pm and 1pm 9pm. Requirements: no education is required. Some experience in Food Helpers but no required. We will provide training. Duties: Sanitize and wash dishes and other by hand. Operate dishwasher to wash dishes, scour pots and pans, clean and sanitize dishwasher mats, carts and waste disposal units. Clean and sanitize kitchen including work surfaces, cupboards, storage areas, appliances and equipment. Remove garbage and trash, sweep and mop floors. Please fax resume to 25783-2301.

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Visit www.chetw yndecho.net To Place an Ad or Call 250-788-2246

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December 2, 2011

C het w y nd Echo

~ In Memory ~ On December 16, the Chetwynd Echo will be publishing our annual supplement â&#x20AC;&#x153;In Memory of our Loved Ones.â&#x20AC;?