March 13 2017

Nickel Belt News

Volume 57 Number 10

Monday, March 13, 2017

Thompson, Manitoba

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Niki Ashton’s second NDP leadership bid a campaign of bold ideas

BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

Churchill-Keewatinook Aski MP Niki Ashton isn’t holding back in her second run at the leadership of the federal NDP party, laying out a vision featuring feminism, free post-secondary tuition, improved immigration policies and a strong stance on oil pipelines and the need to transition to a carbonfree economy for the future during her campaign kickoff announcement in Ottawa March 7.

Channelling the populist spirit of failed U.S. Democratic presidential nomination-seeker Bernie Sanders, Ashton lashed out at the rich and powerful elites she says are holding ordinary Canadians back and at the politics of division and hate, proclaiming solidarity with indigenous people, the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay bisexual, trans-gender and queer) community, the Black Lives Matter movement, millennials having trouble breaking into the labour market and unions fighting for good-paying value-added jobs.

“Fighting for human rights continues to be central to everything that I do,” says Ashton, thrice elected to represent Northern Manitoba as its Member of Parliament, her most recent win over Liberal candidate Rebecca Chartrand finishing much closer than the previous two. “My inspiration is the courage and resilience of indigenous peoples where I come from, may of whom live in Third World living

Churchill-Keewatinook Aski MP Niki Ashton announced March 7 that she is seeking the leadership of the federal NDP a second time. conditions and continue to show incredible resilience in fighting back against colonial minds and colonial policies. It is the workers fighting for good-paying full-time jobs and valueadded development in our communities. It’s the LGBTQ activists that pioneered the Pride North of 55 annual festival in our north.”

Ashton’s announcement also veered into more academic-sounding distinctions ahs she declared herself a feminist, eco-feminist and an intersectional feminist.

In a nod to left-wing poli-

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cies of the past, Ashton also came out against neoliberal economic policies, particularly privatization, deregulation, austerity and disadvantageous trade agreements.

“I think it’s time in this country that we start saying ‘You privatize it, we nationalize it. You deregulate it, we regulate it. You bring in unfair trade deals, we bring in fair trade deals,’” said Ashton, referencing Black Lives Matter Toronto activist Hashim Yussuf’s argument that the current social and economic problems aren’t the result of a

broken system. “We all need to recognize, the system isn’t broken. It was build this way. What we need in this country is a major change to that system. It starts with recognizing that one of the main reasons we have growing inequality, the reason indigenous people live in Third World living conditions, the reason that discrimination and division is still present, the reason women are still unequal, the reason millennials are faced with precarious employment and high student debt is because of a system that is failing all of

us. We must send a message that there is a better way.”

Ashton said the federal NDP’s attempts to increase its popularity by advocating for incremental change have not endeared it to the people it traditionally represented.

“At a time of significant mobilization against Stephen Harper, with a huge increase in electoral participation by young indigenous and racialized voters in the last election, we lost significant support,” she said. “The lesson was clear.

Canadians wanted us to offer fundamental change. It

simply isn’t good enough to continue to follow an incremental approach that has often failed to challenge the policies of Liberal and Conservative governments. We must challenge the power of Canada’s elites, the rich and powerful who are benefitting from growing inequality in our country. It’s time to call out a system that is rigged to benefit the few at the expense of the many. It’s time to take back our country.”

Ashton also said the path forward to a better future is not through division and hatred.

“The time is now for bold vision, a bold vision that unifies, that doesn’t divide like what we’re seeing in the Conservative [party leadership] race and that takes on the powerful, that takes on the systems that are holding us back and I look forward to talking more about that in the months to come,” she said. “I am running because I believe that we need a clear vision, a principled vision and we need to build a movement for fundamental change. We need strong leadership to stand up to the elites in Canada and the elites in politics and economics that are holding us back. So let’s make history.

Let’s move forward together and achieve the dream of social, environmental and economic justice for all of us.”

Ashton finished last in a pool of nine candidates to replace former party leader Jack Layton in her first leadership campaign in 2012.

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Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Monday, March 13, 2017

Columnists

Lalor forges forward Lalor Mine manager Robert Carter moves effortlessly to his desk, situated in a corner office of the mine’s main complex. Slim, analytical and energetic, he explains that unforeseen circumstances have postponed a prearranged tour of Lalor underground on this day.

However, he is still willing to be interviewed and will reschedule the tour for another day. Settling behind the desk, the 44-year-old father of three provides some personal background before beginning the interview.

Carter grew up in southern Manitoba and graduated as a geological engineer from the University of Manitoba. He has close to 20 years of experience in mining, starting in 1997 with Hudbay, in the geology department at the Leaf Rapids Ruttan mine. His experience spans mine engineering and planning, exploration, project evaluation, resource and reserve estimating and includes stops at Anglo American’s Lisheen Mine in Ireland, as well as Hudbay’s Trout Lake and close involvement at Chisel North and 777 mines. Additionally, he spent a two-year stint consulting out of Toronto, writing technical reports for junior companies and as a geology/engineering liaison.

Carter says he is impressed with Snow Lake,

My Take on Snow Lake mjaxon@gillamnet.com Marc Jackson the Lalor mine and its employees. “What I find here is a very strong work ethic in the people of Snow Lake, and they hold each other accountable. So it is much more a family or team environment here than what I’ve seen at other operations. They care!” He says local workers have respect for one another, for management and management in turn has that same respect for them.

Delving into the interview, Carter explains that Hudbay is presently working on an updated technical report for the Lalor mine. Expanding, he says the company mined approximately 1.1 million tonnes, or close to 3,000 tonnes per day last year; in the current year they are planning to increase production. Asked about mill capacity for the increase, Carter says the Stall Mill, is capable of processing 3,500 tonnes per day at present, but with planned refurbishments, they expect to be in a

position during the first and second quarter of next year to increase that capacity.

The Lalor technical report will be released near the end of March 2017, after the mine plan and reserves have been finalized. The report will also provide an updated life of mine. Current mine life, based on last year’s reserves, is 14 years.

“That being said, mining at a higher production rate will reduce mine life, but keep the operation sustainable during periods of challenging metal prices. There will always be gains and losses as we go through the years and investing in exploration to extend the life is of high priority.”

Carter says that they are not specifically mining gold right now; however, as they mine base metals, they are taking the gold material as well. “At lower depths – below 950 m level – the gold and base metals seem to separate,” he explained.

“Separating enough from a

Nickel Belt News photo by Marc Jackson Hudbay’s Lalor Mine manager Robert Carter. mining perspective that you have to leave some sort of pillar in between. So the idea is that this material below 950 m would be better suited to go to a gold processing plant.” At present when Lalor’s gold is up against the base metals or in contact with them, it has enough copper mineralization with it that it goes to the Stall Mill and is floated with the copper concentrate. This gives them a current gold recovery, with no dedicated circuit, of 55 to 60 per cent.

In order to increase their recovery and with an eye on processing the ore from Lalor’s rich gold zones, Hudbay recently purchased the Snow Lake Mine property and infrastructure.

Carter says that they have a rough idea of when they will incorporate that property’s mill into processing Lalor’s gold zone material.

He added that a lot of what is in the Snow Lake Mine mill, by way of the crushing and grinding circuits can be used, but they will have to install some sort of floatation system to remove and retain copper. There is no immediate plan to go underground at the Snow Lake Mine, although it is an asset.

Moving along, the mine manager was asked about area and underground exploration. He replied that most exploration currently going on within the Manitoba Business Unit is in Snow Lake. Noting that there was a fair bit of exploratory drilling in 2016 – generally around Lalor’s gold zone, they are now surface drilling at the nearby “Pen Zone” (seven km east of Lalor), “seventeen short holes, about 3,000 m.,” which will wrap up within the month of March.

“It was drilled in the ‘90s and is a small, captive deposit with limited growth, but we need to drill it on a tighter spacing to confirm the resource and build our confidence,” he said. “It is a deposit that we can likely trench from surface or put a quick ramp into. It provides some optionality to source additional zinc enriched ore from here if required to complement the Lalor mine plan.” As well, the closing of Reed Mine could allow them access to its surface infrastructure and assets, if needed at Pen. Asked if Lalor would

eventually take over Hudbay Manitoba’s flagship status, Carter replied, “Yeah, it’s started already. The pendulum or centre of gravity for the Manitoba Business Unit is swinging to Snow Lake quite quickly and it will stay here for a number of years.” There will be a fair bit of growth in the Lalor mine in the near term. They plan to ramp up the base metal zones production, with the goal of maximising the hoisting capability of 6,000 tpd when the gold material comes on line. The current number of Hudbay employees at Lalor is 250, with another 60 at the Stall Concentrator; this doesn’t include contractors. With the ramp up and depending on technological advances in mining, the number of Hudbay employees at Lalor could reach 350. Notwithstanding, Carter says that Hudbay is experiencing some difficulty hiring workers. “It has been a major issue for us,” he said. “A lot of the workforce comes from Flin Flon and enticing people to relocate to Snow Lake has been a challenge.” With travel being much easier than in past decades, people are not as open to relocating. “But the idea is that we will have a larger operation here, and if we can entice people to stay in town, that would be to our benefit.” Carter says the camp is almost full to capacity (170 “on rotation” people currently) and once their paste fill plant construction begins, they are going to have to do something different. He adds that he can’t see the camp closing anytime soon.

In respect to capital expenditures, a proposed paste fill plant has been permitted and approved; it is expected to be commissioned in February 2018.

They are presently investigating bedrock for the site and a series of underground bore holes for the plant have been drilled. Work on the underground distribution pipeline will begin in March 2017. This paste fill will become an enabler to increase tonnage at the mine. The fill itself is a dense, nondraining slurry made from single or a combination of several suitable solid materials and produced to toothpaste consistency.

Once it sets up in a minedout area, it provides ground

support so that workers and equipment can go back into the area and further mine ore adjacent to it.

Currently, the mine is being overdeveloped due to a need for waste. Nearly half of the seven mining rounds taken per day at Lalor are into waste rock, which is in turn used for backfill. Carter says while they wait for the paste fill plant to come online, they have begun to look at other options. “We already have these bore holes (eight inches in diameter) from surface … we’ve spent money on them. The paste fill plant is not going to be commissioned until essentially the first quarter of 2018 … so how can we utilize those bore holes”” he asks rhetorically. “One idea that we are working on is cemented rockfill for an isolated area. That’s working out good for us. The other idea is a temporary paste plant; to use those bore holes before the permanent paste plant is operational.”

One final thing Carter wants to talk about is the move to integrate the latest technological advances in mining to the Lalor operation. He explains that the mine was built with the same technology as was used to build Flin Flon’s 777 mine, but over the last 10 to 15 years there have been huge technological advances in mining. “We (Lalor) were the first in all of Hudbay to operate a LHD (Load Haul Dump) from surface via tele-remote with autonomous (self-directing within set and safe parameters); meaning the entire stope was mined out from surface other than a few oversize pieces that we had to deal with underground.”

Operated from a room in Lalor’s office complex, the machinery continually scans the walls, building it into memory, operates the bucket, drives the equipment and dumps into an ore pass or transfer raise. “We see this as being an enabler to increase our tonnage and also allows us the opportunity to take advantage of the time between shifts on blast clearance, when no one is in the mine … we can capture more tonnes.” They are looking at other equipment or infrastructure modifications, such as driving a large Alimak raise-ore pass.

“For the last four years, we haven’t been using gravity to our benefit … we have been trucking,” said the bespectacled mine manager.

“With trucking, you need more ventilation; there is more maintenance, so we are trying to use some of the obvious helpers. How that material is transferred into the back of a truck … we are looking at different loading options also. “ “The primary focus is a successful ramp up in order to get to a continuous state,” Carter concludes. “I think we can do it and I think we can do it faster than people first envisioned.”

Monday, March 13, 2017

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 3

News

Keeyask budget could go up $2.2 billion, won’t be operational until summer of 2021 Manitoba Hydro’s Keeyask Generating Station currently under construction on the Nelson River could cost up to a third more than the original estimate and won’t be operational until nearly two years later than originally planned, the Crown corporation and the Keeyask Hydropower Limited Partnership (KHLP) announced March 7.

The control budget was revised to $8.7 billion and the in-service date pushed back to August 2021, said a news release. The original budget for constructing the 695-megawatt generating station was $6.5 billion and the original in-service date was November 2019.

“The new control budget and revised in-service date developed by Manitoba Hydro has been presented to the KHLP board,” said KHLP board chair Lorne Midford. “Manitoba Hydro continues to work with its Keeyask partners to evaluate the impact of the cost and schedule changes to each partner’s interests in the project.”

Manitoba Hydro is constructing the generating station, which is owned

by KHLP, a partnership between the Crown cor-

poration and Tataskweyak Cree Nation, Fox Lake Cree Nation, York Factory First Nation and War Lake First Nation.

An analysis of the project conducted by the Boston Consulting Group last fall as part of the Manitoba HydroElectric Board’s (MHEB) review of capital projects, said costs were expected to rise to $7.8 billion and that the completion date could be delayed by up to 31 months.

The new control budget includes and additional $900 million on top of that in contingency funds, interest and escalation and is based on a review that considered the current state of progress and costs already incurred, including those for the first full year of structural concrete work in 2016.

“Keeyask is a large and very complex project and the updated control budget is a realistic estimate based on what we know today,” said Kelvin Shepherd, Manitoba Hydro president and CEO. “However, there is always a chance of additional risks materializing that could impact the schedule and costs.”

Despite the increased costs and delayed completion, the MHEB still be-

lieves, as it said last fall, that completing the project is the most sensible course for Manitoba Hydro, though it’s still too early to predict what effect these revisions will have on the rates customers pay, according to Shepherd.

“Completing Keeyask will allow us to fulfill export contracts worth approximately $4.5 billion,” Shepherd said.

“This will help offset some of the costs of the project.

Despite the increased cost to complete construction, stopping now is not an economically viable option as the significant costs of cancellation—together with lost revenues—more than offset any potential savings.

Updated electric growth forecasts indicate our province is going to need a new source of generation to meet domestic load by approximately 2033. Keeyask will provide a reliable, renewable source of energy to meet that demand then and well into the future.”

Shepherd said Manitoba Hydro is still preparing its long-term financial forecast as part of the utility’s next general rate application to the Public Utilities Board but felt that updated project information should be

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THOMPSON GRADE 4/5 CLASSES FROM WAPANOHK COMMUNITY SCHOOL are having an indoor yard and bake sales on Saturday, March 18. It’s for their Churchill educational trip. We are grateful if anybody can donate any slightly used items or baked goods for our sales. Please drop off on Friday, March 17 at Wapanohk School anytime in the afternoon.

HOPE NORTH SUICIDE PREVENTION COMMITTEE presents An Evening of Hope! “Open Heart, Open Mind” - an evening with six-time olympic medalist and mental health advocate Clara Hughes.

Thursday, March 16 from 7 - 8 pm at Letkemann Theatre. Admission is free, all age groups welcome.

BOREAL DISCOVERY CENTRE GARDENING WORKSHOP. Sat, March 18, 1 to 2:30 pm at Boreal Discovery Centre, 110 UCN Drive. Workshop leader Cliff Colter. The workshop will focus on seeds: when, how and why. $10 prepaid admittance including seed starter pots, potting soil and tomato seeds. Register by emailing borealdc@gmail.com. The first 30 prepaid will be guaranteed a spot.

THOMPSON MULTICULTURAL CENTRE: FREE ENGLISH CLASSES for immigrants, newcomers, adults and elderly people. Every Tuesday from 5 pm - 6 pm at RDPC. If interested contact Aileen Garrett at 204-670-6032 or Sandi Knight at 204-333-9894.

THOMPSON MULTICULTURAL CENTRE: FREE FRENCH CLASSES for immigrants, newcomers, adults and elderly people. Every Friday from 5 pm - 6 pm. If interested contact Yedidia Ngoy at 204-307-0657 or Alberto Sasaki at 204-939-1708.

HUMANE SOCIETY IS IN NEED and would greatly appreciate the following: kitty litter, wet & dry cat & dog food, treats & bones, paper towels, Javex and old towels. Donations can be dropped off at 27 Nelson Road Monday - Friday, 3 - 5 pm. Phone 204-778-3513.

FREE CURLING FOR SENIORS: Wed at 1 - 3 pm. Started Oct 19. Contact Wally at 204-778-7270.

COFFEE HOUSE SERIES, LAST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH: Local musicians and a variety of styles. Snacks, coffee, friends & fun. St. Andrew’s Church, 249 Thompson Drive (across from RDPC). Everyone welcome. Donations collected at the door. Contact Lynn 670-1597 or Penny 679-0496 for info or to perform.

ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING are important first steps when making career or educational decisions. The YWCA Assessment Centre can help you begin. We offer an assortment of high quality assessments for adults interested in upgrading, making career choices or preparing for the GED exam. The YWCA Assessment Centre offers a full range of Career Development Services FREE of charge. For more information or to make an appointment call 204-778-1208.

ARE YOU PREGNANT? STRUGGLING WITH USE OF EITHER ALCOHOL or drugs? InSight Mentoring can help. This is a free service available to women that are pregnant or may have given birth in the past year. InSight Mentoring can help you identify your goals and help you achieve them. Please call 204-677-5372 or 204-778-1521 between 8:30-4:30 pm for more information.

IF YOUR LOVED ONE or friend has a problem with alcohol, and you need help, join the Alanon group meeting at 1079 Cree Rd at the Nickel Group trailer, across from Co-op Gas, Wed at 8 pm.

Call Wendy at 204-778-7841 for information.

DO YOU HAVE A DISABILITY? Are you looking for employment or work experience and have a disability? The Thompson Supported Employment Program (TSEP) provides a comprehensive variety of quality employment services to persons with disabilities as well as acting as a resource to local progressive employers. For more information or to book an appointment: contact Thompson Supported Employment Program at 204-677-8322.

BABIES BEST START Nutrition program for pregnant women and new moms (Post-natal new moms Wednesdays 1:30 - 3:30 pm. Pregnant moms (pre-natal) Thursday 1:30 - 3:30 pm. High school Tuesday 12 pm - 1:10 pm. Phone 204-677-4431. 125 Commercial Place, Thompson.

released so customers and partners are aware of the project’s status.

“We are committed to keeping Manitobans informed on the progress we are making on Keeyask,” said Shepherd.

NDP finance critic James Allum said his party agrees that the project must continue despite increased costs.

“It’s always a concern to hear about major cost overruns, and it’s important for Manitoba Hydro to account for any pressures they may experience in construction through their annual application to the Public Utilities Board,” Allum said in an email statement. “As the president of Manitoba Hydro said today, this province is growing. Manitoba must develop clean and renewable sources of power to meet that demand and into the future. Manitoba Hydro still considers the completion of Keeyask the best path forward and we agree. As several independent reviews have pointed out, building Keeyask now allows Hydro to meet the future increase in domestic demand while helping pay for the cost of the project through sales to other provinces and states.”

School District of Mystery Lake Change in Location for Regular Board Meeting on March 14, 2017 The Board of Trustees of the School District of Mystery Lake will be holding the March 14, 2017 board meeting in the library at Juniper School.

Meeting time is 7:00 p.m. and everyone is welcome to attend.

Success for All

Re: Kindergarten Registration for the 2017/2018 School Year Registration for September 2017 kindergarten is now being accepted at all our elementary schools, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon and 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Please register your child at your catchment school. Welcome to kindergarten events are planned for the month of June at each school.

The person registering the child must be a parent or legal guardian. A birth certificate is necessary for registration. You will also need your Manitoba Health card as well as proof of residence (valid Manitoba driver’s licence, Manitoba medical card, lease agreement, house title or any other official document indicating your current address.) If not a Canadian citizen, please provide Landed Immigrant documents, visa, etc. Students entering kindergarten must be five years old by December 31, 2017.

Success for All

Thompson RCMP Drug Tip Line

204-677-6995

Page 4

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Monday, March 13, 2017

News

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RECEIVE A MOVE-IN BONUS GIFT CARD FROM THE BRICK (LIMITED TIME ONLY) Office Hours Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Contact Edith @ 204-677-9880

suites.forestview@shaw.ca

IN MEMORY Wayne Lawrence Hart October 22, 1954 – March 8, 2016

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of 2017 Canada Games Host Society Manitoba Hydro CEO Kelvin Shepherd at the announcement of the 2017 Canada Summer Games torch relay route in Winnipeg.

Canada Games torch relay will pass through Gillam, Fox Lake and Thompson

March 8, 2017 has been a year since you left us.

The moment that you died my heart was torn in two. one side filled with heartache, the other died with you.

I often lie awake at night, when the world is fast asleep, and take a walk down memory lane, with tears upon my cheeks.

Remembering you is easy, I do it everyday.

But missing you is heartache, that never goes away.

I hold you tightly within my heart, and there you will remain.

Until the Joyous day arrives, That we will meet again.

Lovingly remembered, never forgotten By your wife Jo-Anne Sinclair-Hart & Stepsons

The 2017 Canada Games torch relay will be passing through several Northern Manitoba communities including Gillam, Fox Lake Cree Nation, Thompson, The Pas and Opaskwayak Cree Nation July 1-10 as it traverses the province to reach the host city Winnipeg on July 26, two days before the games kick off.

The Roly McLenahan Torch, renamed in 1985 for an original member of the Canada Games Council, will

be lit at Parliament Hill in Ottawa and then begin its tour of Manitoba in Steinbach June 23, continuing on to Kenora and Morden before reaching Gillam and Fox Lake Cree Nation on Canada Day and Thompson July 6 before moving on to The Pas and OCN July 10 and then through Dauphin, Gimil, Brandon, Sagkeeng First Nation and Great Falls before reaching its destination.

“This highly symbolic starting point connects the

Celebrate the Canada Summer Games at events in these communities along the torch route.

June 23 June 24 June 29 July 1 July 6 July 10 July 11

Steinbach Kenora Morden Gillam/Fox Lake Cree Nation Thompson The Pas/Opaskwayak Cree Nation Dauphin

July 15 July 20 July 26 TBD

Gimli Brandon Winnipeg Sagkeeng First Nation/ Great Falls

NOMINATE OR APPLY TO BE A TORCHBEARER canadagames.ca/2017

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nation’s capital to the provinces and territories that will be sending 4,000 athletes and coaches to compete in the 50th anniversary of the Canada Games,” said Jeff Hnatiuk, president and CEO of the 2017 Canada Games Host Society.

“The route was chosen to reflect the diversity of the province and to include as many Manitobans as possible to participate in this national event and make it a great success,” said Kelvin Shepherd, president and CEO of major games sponsor Manitoba Hydro. “Manitoba Hydro is proud to is demonstrate our commitment to the communities we serve, and to the spirit of the Canada Summer Games. The torch relay provides an opportunity for us all to get involved.”

The torch will be carried by 10 to 20 torchbearers in each community outside of Winnipeg along a two- to five-kilometre route broken up into approximately 200-metre segments for each torchbearer and will end at a local Manitoba Hydro office in communities where there is one, which will be the site of a community celebration.

The torch will travel about 3,500 kilometres through the course of its travels through Manitoba and northwestern Ontario.

“The torch relay will remain a part of Canada’s history long after the games,” said federal Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities Carla Qualtrough. “Our government is proud to support

the 2017 Canada Summer Games in Winnipeg and the many activities that will make the games shine bright during the year-long Canada 150 celebrations.”

“The torch relay provides another exciting chance for people living in communities around the province to get involved,” said Manitoba Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage Rochelle Squires.

“The games and celebrations surrounding them will create lifelong memories, not only for people in the host city of Winnipeg but for those all along the relay route.”

Prospective torchbearers must submit applications

by April 14 and the successful applicants will be announced on Manitoba Day May 12. Application forms will be available at local Manitoba Hydro offices or online at www. canadagames.ca/2017.

Torchbearers must be 12 or older by June 1, be Canadian citizens or legal residents and be physically capable of running, walking or wheeling a 200- to 500-metre segment of the relay. Torchbearers will be selected by a committee including Manitoba Hydro representatives along with community representatives of each of the torch relay communities.

The 2017 Canada Summer Games will run from July 28-Aug. 13 and involve over 4,000 athletes and coaches and bring an estimated 20,000 visitors to Winnipeg.

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Monday, March 13, 2017

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 5

Sports

Cross Lake’s Keeper named MJHL MVP Our athletes will INSPIRE you!

VOLUNTEER WITH US ... be inspired.

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of MJHL OCN Blizzard defenceman and former Norman Northstar Brady Keeper of Cross Lake was named the Manitoba Junior Hockey League’s most valuable player and top defenceman Feb. 24.

BY IAN GRAHAM EDITOR@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET

OCN Blizzard defenceman and former Norman Northstar Brady Keeper of Cross Lake was named the Manitoba Junior Hockey League’s most valuable player and top defenceman Feb. 24.

Keeper, who committed to play for the NCAA Division 1 University of Maine in 2017-18 prior to the start of the recently concluded MJHL campaign, won the Steve “Boomer� Hawrysh MVP Award and the Brian Kozak Trophy as the league’s top defenceman as well as being named a first-team all-star after a season that saw him score 23 goals and 25 assists in 48 games.

This was Keeper’s third

season with the Blizzard.

He recorded 16 goals and 28 assists for 44 points in the 2015-16 season and 13 goals and 28 assists in 2014-15 when he was named to the all-rookie team. He was also a first team all-star and runnerup as top defenceman in 2015-16. He has three goals and two assists in five playoff games with the Blizzard over the past two seasons.

Keeper played one season with the midget AAA Northstars in Thompson, recording seven goals and 18 assists in 42 games in 2013-14, when he was recognized by the team for earning the most defensive player of the game citations over the course of the season. He was also a member of the

Keystone Junior Hockey League’s Norway house North Stars in 2012-13, scoring six goals and 28 assists.

Long-time former Northstars coach Doug Korman, who took over behind the bench partway through the 2013414 season when Keeper was on the Northstars, remarked upon Keeper’s development as a player before a Northstars alumni game in Thompson Feb. 25, when Korman was inducted into Thompson’s sports Wall of fame. “Him and his brother [Anthony] are playing for OCN and they’ve had a good season and hopefully they make a run at the championship,� said Korman. “It’s good seeing those guys.�

Brothers in arms

Special Olympics Manitoba (SOM) is currently looking for enthusiastic individuals to volunteer their time and skills in becoming part of the NORMAN Regional Leadership Team.

The team is responsible for leading the operations of their UHJLRQ LQ DGPLQLVWUDWLRQ ĆŹQDQFHV DQG IXQGUDLVLQJ ZLWK VXSSRUW IURP WKH 3URYLQFLDO 2ĆŻFH ,I \RX ZDQW WR PDNH D GLĆŞHUHQFH LQ \RXU FRPPXQLW\ DQG WKH lives of Special Olympics Manitoba athletes, please contact: LESLEY CAMASO-CATALAN, Manager, Community Support E: lcamaso@specialolympics.mb.ca P: 204-925-5625 (Toll-Free: 1-888-333-9179) For more information on SOM, visit www.specialolympics.mb.ca.

Let’s Get Social! ǗSpecOManitoba

Manitoba

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Nickel Belt News photo by Ian Graham Avery Wilkie, left, and Austin Wilkie, right, celebrate Avery Wilkie’s third goal for Fox Lake during the Keewatin Tribal Days hockey tournament ďŹ nal against the Tataskweyak Blues in Thompson March 5. The goal made it a 6-4 lead for Fox Lake but the Blues came back to tie the game up and then win it overtime by a score of 7-6.

Learn more at hydro.mb.ca/equal, or call 204-480-5900 (Winnipeg) or 1-888-624-9376 (toll free).

Available in accessible formats upon request.

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Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

CLASSIFIED@THOMPSONCITIZEN.NET 201 • SERVICES

Tire Sales & Service Passenger - Light Truck - ATV Trailer - RV - Golf Carts - Forestry - Retreads - Section Repairs - Tubes Wheel Balancing - Repairs

52nb-tfnb

90 Hayes Rd. Thompson, MB Phone 677-3925 or Toll Free 1-877-677-9955

301 • HELP WANTED

183 Cree Rd, Thompson MB, R8N 0C2 Toll free: 1-800-565-2401 PH: 204-778-8387 FAX: 204-677-4087

Looking for a kitchen helper and cook.

Experience preferred.

Apply at the front desk 10-2-nb

DOAK’S BULK FUELS is looking for a driver class 1 or 3. yard work and long haul. $22.50 per hour plus benefit package. Send resume by fax 204-778-4474 or drop off at 250 Station Road. 9nb-2-d RIVERVIEW RESTAURANT 7-50 Selkirk Ave, Thompson MB. Full time chef is needed to cook menu items, create new recipes, train kitchen staff and manage our kitchen. Min. 3 years of experience with cooking certificate, experience in Szechuan or Cantonese cuisine is an asset. Starting wage $20/ hour for 40 hours a week. Apply within or email your qualifications: info@riverviewrestaurant.ca. 6nb-tfn-nb

505 • HOUSES FOR SALE FOR SALE BY OWNER Deerwood area.

3 bedroom, one level house. Recently renovated and painted. Yard backs onto ravine. Asking $150,000. If interested please call 204-778-4271. 9nb-2-d FOR SALE BY OWNER 4 Minago Bay. Reduced to $100,000. If interested, call 204-348-7493. 34nb-tfn-nb

510 • RETAIL/ OFFICE SPACE OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE 500-5000 sq ft. available. Cameron/Hoe building 81 Churchill Drive. Contact Joe Aniceto.

204-679-0490 or Neil Cameron 306477-5668. 19nb-tfn-nb COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT AT SOUTHWOOD PLAZA. CALL 1-250491-3946 OR 204-677-2957. 06-tfn-d WAREHOUSE--STORAGE SPACE for rent, 73 Hayes Rd., 600 sq. ft. of storage or work space. Available Sept. 1/2016.

Off of main hallway with access to washroom, next door Iron Fitness. Hydro included. Tenant cost shares water. For more info, contact: Carolyn Turpie, 31 Oak St., Ph: 204-677-3516. Friuli Suite Rentals/Bianchini Warehousing. Email: manager@friulirentals.com. 28-tfn-nb4 COMBO WAREHOUSE/GARAGE/OFFICE Spaces for rent 16- Beren’s Rd., Bay 2, 1380 sq ft. Available Oct. 1/2016 Behind Eric’s Plumbing – garage space with washroom. Commercial sized overhead door in back with man door. For more info, contact: Carolyn Turpie, 31 Oak St., Ph: 204-677-3516 Friuli Suite Rentals/Bianchini Warehousing email: manager@friulirentals.com. 48-tfn-nb

606 • GENERAL NOTICES WINNERS WANTED Hope Lottery Group, looking for 42 people to put $100 each against a one time chance at the $60 million dollar Lotto Max draw. Contact 204-307-1945. 5nb-gcd-10-d

Tina Keeper named ACTRA’s woman of the year North of 60 star and former Churchill Liberal MP Tina Keeper of Norway House Cree Nation was named 2017 Woman of the Year by the Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA) in advance of International Women’s Day March 8.

Born in Winnipeg, Keeper is best known for her role as RCMP officer Michelle Kenidi in the CBC series North of 60, for which she received a best performance Gemini Award. She was elected Liberal MP for Churchill in 2006 and served one term until 2008. She is now president of Kistikan Pictures, a partner company of Buffalo Gal pictures, which produced the feature film Road of Iniquity, the critically acclaimed Royal Winnipeg Ballet show Going Home Star, The REDress Project and produces the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network drama series Cashing In. Keeper has

an upcoming feature titled Through Black Spruce, a co-production with Serendipity Point Films, which is set to begin production this July.

The ACTRA Woman of the Year award is presented annually to a member who excels in artistic and advocacy.

“As a performer, as an activist, as a community leader Tina Keeper has been an inspiration and a role model,” said ACTRA president Ferne Downey in a press release. “In addition to being a talented performer, she is a dedicated spokesperson on social issues. Her humanitarian work is far-reaching and powerful. She is deeply committed to the growth and development of indigenous performing arts in Canada. We’re proud to honour her.”

“I am truly honoured,” said Keeper. “It has been a privilege to work as an actor – a critical role within our country. I am

MORTGAGE SALE The land and building known as 263 Riverside Drive, Thompson, Manitoba, as described in Certificate of Title No. 2729460/3, will be sold by public auction by a Licensed Auctioneer on March 30, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at Wayne Hall Auctions, 31 Elk Bay Thompson, Manitoba

501 • HOUSES FOR RENT BEAUTIFUL 3 BEDROOM bungalow on 51 Parkway Crest. $1200/month plus utilities or $1450/month utilities included. Call Ken at 780-991-7912 or email carosa.canada@gmail.com for more details. 10nb-1-d

The Vendor is informed that the property consists of a one storey dwelling approximately 1,429 square feet, with living room, dining room, kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms,full finished basement, single attached garage, on a lot approximately 66 feet x 125 feet.

Realty taxes (excluding any accruing water charges) are paid to December 31, 2016.

Prior Charges: Caveat Nos. 33795N/3 and 33796N/3 TERMS OF SALE

Church Services ST. JAMES ANGLICAN Rev. Jean Arthurson-Ouskan 10 Caribou 677-4652 11 am Sundays ST. JOSEPH UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC 340 Juniper Drive 778-7547 ST. LAWRENCE ROMAN CATHOLIC Fr Shantha Gandamalla and Fr Guna Sekhar 114 Cree R. 677-0160 Sat. 6:30 pm & Sun. 10 am THOMPSON PENTECOSTAL Pastor Dan Murphy Youth Pastor Colton Murphy Children’s Pastor Karen O’Gilvie 126 Goldeye 677-3435 thompsonchurch.ca Sunday school 9:45 am, coffee time at 10:40 am Church Service at 11:00 am ST. ANDREWS PRESBYTERIAN 249 Thompson Drive 204-677-2799 Pastor Murat Kuntel Regular Hours: 11 am Church service CHRISTIAN CENTRE FELLOWSHIP 328 Thompson Dr. N. 677-4457 Pastor: Arnold (Arnie) Pedersen Sun. School 9:45 am • service 11 am FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 456 Westwood Dr. S. Ph. 778-8037 service @ 11 am LUTHERAN - UNITED CHURCH OF THOMPSON Congregations worship at 52 Caribou Rd. at 10:30 am Sundays.

Phone 204-677-4495 LIVING WATER CHURCH Pastor Archie McKay Ph: 677-2469 Sunday services @ 7:00pm.

LIGHT OF THE NORTH CHURCH 32 Nelson Road GATEWAY BIBLE BAPTIST CHURCH Pastor Dave Cook 159 Cree Rd 204-677-3000 Sunday school 10:00 am AM Service at 11, PM Service at 7 Prayer meeting - Wednesday 7 pm THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS everyone welcome Sundays at 10 AM 83 Copper Rd For more information, church tours or home visits call the missionaries at 204-939-4382 or visit Mormon.org THE SALVATION ARMY Thompson Corps (Church) 305 Thompson Dr. - 204-677-3658 Worship services every Sunday at 11 am APOSTOLIC FAITH CHURCH 111 Goldeye Crescent Sunday 11:00 am Worship Service 3:00 pm Sunday school 7:00 pm evening service Wednesday: 7:00 pm bible study followed by prayer time.

Contact us at 204-679-2693 or 204-677-5003 BURNTWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH 39 Beaver Crescent Thompson MB R8N 1C5 204-778-4494 Pastor Lee Pickett Sunday morning service 11:15 a.m Sunday evening service 7:00 p.m Wednesday prayer meeting 7:00 p.m

Monday, March 13, 2017

A deposit of $30,000.00 by way of cash, certified cheque or bank draft payable to Fillmore Riley LLP, and the balance according to conditions which will be available for public view at the Auctioneer’s address above prior to the auction. The property will be sold subject to a Reserve Bid of $211,000.00 plus such other additional and incidental costs which may be incurred by the Vendor from 6th day of March, 2017 to the date of auction and which costs will be announced prior to the commencement of the sale.

Further information may be obtained from FILLMORE RILEY LLP Barristers and Solicitors 1700 - 360 Main Street Winnipeg, MB R3C 323 File No, 4007 84-3021/DlC/kl(mer) Attention: Doug Christie Phone: 204-957-8373

Tina Keeper especially grateful and proud, now, to participate with my sisters and brothers and support the voices and stories of Canadian creators. I am humbled to receive this award in the company of such esteemed sisters.

Ekosani, thank you.”

Named to the Order of Manitoba in 2002,

Keeper also received a National Aboriginal Achievement Award in 2004 and has also won three American Indian Film Festival Awards.

ACTRA is the national union of professional performers working in English media in Canada and represents 23,000 members.

Monday, March 13, 2017

Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Page 7

Columnists

Prayer or praying?

A friend of mine on Facebook recently posted a thought he had while reading a book. This is what he said, “In North America we believe in prayer.

Prayer matters according to the value statements of many churches. That’s good. But ... do we believe in praying?”

It is a question that caused me to ponder my own thoughts about prayer and praying. So often our response to the events and circumstances of life is the offer and extension of our prayers, but does it happen?

Jesus’ disciples didn’t ask him about prayer, but to teach them how to pray.

Luke 11:1 – One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” This question was not in response to Jesus’ teachings but His actions. Often, they would observe Jesus going to a quiet place to spend some time in prayer with the Father. Prayer was simply a time of conversation and interaction with God the Father.

I think for many people prayer seems overwhelming and complicated. The disciples had heard Jesus pray many times. They even knew about how John the Baptist had taught his disciples to pray. Yet, they still felt that it was something beyond them.

In Matthew 6 just before Jesus teaches us the Lord’s

Spiritual Thoughts pastordan@thompsonchurch.ca

Pastor Dan Murphy

Prayer we are reminded how simple it is supposed to be to pray. I love how the Message version states it.

Matthew 6:5-13 5 – “And when you come before God, don’t turn that into a theatrical production either.

All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat?” 6 – “Here’s what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage.

The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace.”

7-13 – “The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant.

They’re full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. Don’t fall for that nonsense.

This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need.”

I grew up at a time when we recited the Lord’s Prayer every morning at the beginning of each school day. I think that was a good thing because it speaks about being thankful, kind and for-

giving, but this isn’t about advocating for a ritual. It is a call for us to not just talk about prayer but to pray.

May I ask you some questions like my friend’s post asked me. When was the last time you stopped and prayed? Not in church or a recited a prayer, but actually stopped every-

thing and talked with God. As a pastor, I have people ask me to pray for them or situations all the time.

The requests come when we are together, by phone calls, posts etc., and that’s OK, but I must confess that sometimes I want to ask them if they are praying too. Do we ask for prayer or say we will pray without ever praying?

Let me challenge you, as I have been challenged, to make prayer more than a topic, idea or statement and stop for a moment and pray.

Pastor Dan Murphy is the pastor of Thompson Pentecostal Assembly on Goldeye Crescent.

SETTARC WELDING LDING is looking for a:

HEAVY DUTY MECHANIC NIC • Red Seal with CAT experience • Underground experience an asset

REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER Thompson Citizen Location: Thompson, Manitoba

Description The Thompson Citizen has an immediate opening for a journalist in Thompson, Manitoba.

The Thompson Citizen is a part of the Prairie Newspaper Group, which is a division of Glacier Media. This position would be a great starting point for an enthusiastic graduate as well as it would be a great opportunity for an experienced reporter looking for an exciting change from the regular day to day workload.

The successful applicant will be expected to cover a wide range of topics spread between two publications. He or she will find himself or herself reporting on current events, writing Q & A’s, business features, personal interest and taking lots of photos.

Qualifications This editorial position requires an organized individual who works well on his or her own as well as with a team. They need to be dedicated and diligent with a strong work ethic. He or she must have a degree or diploma in journalism or have at least five years experience in newspaper journalism. Experience in photography is necessary.

He or she must have a valid driver’s licence and a reliable vehicle.

Kilometres are tracked and the journalist will be reimbursed.

Please send resume with cover letter to:

Lynn Taylor, Publisher Thompson Citizen, P.O. Box 887, Thompson, Manitoba R8N 1N8 or email generalmanager@thompsoncitizen.net

• Benefit package • Wages $45 - $50 per hour depending upon experience Please send resume to settarc@outlook.com

Opaskwayak Health Authority Beatrice Wilson Health Centre Home Care Nurse Opaskwayak Health Authority is seeking a qualified individual to fulfill the role of Home Care Nurse.

Gardewine is currently recruiting for Class 1 Flat Deck drivers for short haul deck work deliveries in the Thompson area and Northern Manitoba.

You would require a valid Class 1 license, clean abstract and experience with pat deck loads (tarping, chaining and strapping may be required).

Gardewine offers a competitive wage; health, vision and dental beneots; yearly proot share; pension plan; milestone service awards; and more!

To apply, please call Mel at 1-800-282-8000 or email driving@gardewine.com You can also stop in at 136 Hayes Road, Thompson and speak with Randy.

Salesperson Seeking a highly motivated permanent, full-time salesperson for busy retail store.

Successful applicant will be well groomed, outgoing, personable and able to keep pace with rapidly changing technology.

Wireless Solution/MTS Connect offers an above industry average compensation package plus benefits plan. Must be available to work during store hours which are from 9:00 - 6:00 weekdays and 9:30 - 5:00 on Saturdays.

Please apply in person with resume and cover letter.

Wireless Solutions/MTS Connect Thompson 10 -50 Selkirk Avenue Thompson, MB R8N 0M7

Leo’s Home Decorating LTD. has one term position available starting April, 2017.

Retail Sales personnel and other applicable duties.

Full time, 40 hrs per week, plus benefits package.

Please E-mail resume to leos@mts. net, or drop off resume at 137 Hayes Rd. Thompson, MB between the hours of Monday-Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.

Job Summary Reporting to the Home Care Manager, the Home Care Nurse is responsible for promoting, protecting & preserving the health of OCN community members through services directed to home care clients. The Home Care Nurse provides holistic care & practices nursing as defined by the Registered Nurses Act & in compliance with the College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba Standards of Practice & Canadian Nurses Association Code of Ethics; cares for & directs the overall care of clients; is responsible for advocating, providing information, educating & supporting clients to ensure that the highest possible standard of service is provided; follows OHA policies & procedures; works in a multidisciplinary team & may be called upon to assist with other duties within the scope of the department.

Position Requirements: • Degree in nursing • CRNM – Active Registration • Valid Manitoba Class 5 Driver’s License • Daily access to a vehicle • Criminal record & child abuse registry checks • 2 years of related nursing experience • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook • Satisfactory employment record including attendance at work Closing Date: March 14, 2017 at 4 pm. No late submissions will be accepted.

Applications Must Include: • A cover letter that clearly indicates how you meet the position requirements • Resume • Copy of credentials (licenses, training, education) • Three professional letters of reference (colleague, supervisor or manager) – or – contact information for same (include position / title, current place of employment, phone number & email • Criminal record check & child abuse registry checks (or indication that they have been applied for) • Personal contact information (phone & email) Your application will not proceed to interview without the above information. To obtain a complete job description, for additional information or to apply for this position please contact or submit your application to: Carol A. Buchberger, Human Resource Manager Opaskwayak Health Authority Box 10280, 245 Waller Road, Opaskwayak, MB R0B 2J0 Email: carol.buchberger@ocnhealth.com Please mark all correspondence “CONFIDENTIAL” Please note that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

WORK WITH US & GROW A CAREER Glacier Media Group is growing.

Check our job board regularly for the latest openings: www.glaciermedia.ca/careers

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Nickel Belt News • www.thompsoncitizen.net

Monday, March 13, 2017

Columnists

Exchange student work experience Members of the Thompson Fire & Emergency Services (TFES) hosted a work experience morning recently for Rotary Exchange student Amelie Dep from France. Many thanks go out to the members of TFES and safety officer Michelle Smook for arranging this.

Nickel Belt News photo courtesy of Amelie Dep

Bad weather brings out best in northerners We northerners know we can count on each other to step up when needed, and that was evident again this week during the blizzard that saw Thompson and surrounding communities buried in snowdrifts with roads blocked, parking lots inaccessible and businesses and schools closed. Thanks to the many northerners who helped push vehicles, deliver medicine, offer rides and clear driveways, and to the emergency medical

service personnel and hospital staff who showed up for work to ensure services were available for those in need. We certainly appreciate it.

On March 8, our government recognized International Women’s Day at the legislature with an event hosted by Minister of Sport, Culture and Heritage, and Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs and the Status of Women, Rochelle Squires. The minister

MLA Report kelly.bindle@leg.gov.mb.ca Kelly Bindle was recently in Thompson, as well as in Flin Flon and The Pas, hosting meetings with northern women. This event celebrates the amaz-

ing contributions women make to our world and to our future, as well as in the Thompson constituency and elsewhere in Northern

MAJOR RACE SPONSORS

Manitoba.

Our Manitoba government returned to the house on March 1 to continue our work on legislation for the benefit of people in the north and across the province. Our vision is a path not only toward fiscal balance and responsibility, but to economic opportunity and sustainability and security of front-line services. We’re doing much in the next few months, during this legislative session,

to achieve these goals for Manitobans.

The recently released Fraser Institute survey of mining companies shows our plan is working, with a massive leap in global investor confidence in Manitoba under our new government. The survey shows we climbed from 19th place last year to second-best in the world for mining investment this year, and we’re still working hard to be number one.