AHN June 22, 2023

PRRD withdraws support for treaty land sharing network

Following public outcry during their June 8 committee of the whole meeting, the Peace River Regional District has withdrawn support of the concept of a treaty land sharing network.

While a letter of support had already been issued and signed by the chair, directors said the concept hasn’t been made clear to the board or the public.

After a series of amendments at their June 8 board meeting, a motion was passed to withdraw support “until Scion Strategies Ltd is able to describe the concept in detail, has provided answers to landowners about the concept, and has held meetings with landowners regarding the idea and demonstrates support from the landowners and interested parties.”

Fort St. John Mayor Lilia Hansen said she understands the backlash, noting that the land sharing model makes more sense in Saskatchewan as it was a grassroots driven initiative by landowners to address limited crown land availability, not government.

“I think that it’s important that we acknowledge private

landowners’ rights. We also acknowledge that with First Nations as the regional district, that is not in our wheelhouse, it’s not our scope - that falls under the federal, provincial government.” Hansen said.

BC by comparison has greater amounts of crown land with 94 percent available.

Liability remains a huge concern for many, added Hansen, noting not all farmers are comfortable with hunters on their land, nor do residents want to be responsible for risk taken by those driving ATVs and snowmobiles.

“We all hold value in our personal right to own in fee simple and have the right as to who we allow or not allow,” Hansen said.

Area B Director Jordan Kealy said the network idea is a great concept, but noted farmers and landowners already do this at their own discretion.

“That wasn’t feedback in a good way,” said Kealy of the committee of the whole meeting. “It’s not the kind of way we want to communicate and try and bring items forward to help represent our constituents.”

“We do land sharing here on a regular basis, most of the time it’s just direct - person to person, nobody else is in-

volved. I think it’s a great concept, there’s so many different uses for it,” added Kealy. “I just, as we’ve seen, we didn’t get great feedback on that.”

Kealy initially proposed issuing a cease and desist on their letter before being corrected by fellow board directors and PRRD staff.

Area C Director Brad Sperling said the PRRD has no authority to issue a cease and desist, but feels the letter should have been rescinded or altered, noting that the intention penned wasn’t clear enough outside of the board.

“I’ve read it several times, and our discussion and support of this board was for the concept of a voluntary program,” said Sperling. “And nowhere in that letter in plain English does it say that.”

Pouce Coupe Mayor Danielle Veach acknowledged the outcry and said the PRRD needs to regain faith with the public.

“At this point in time I really think that we need to regain that faith with the public who came here,” said Veach. “And the only way to do that is to put this out and really meet with the public, going forward.”

She added that some mem-

bers of the public are concerned that land sharing could be pushed through without their support due to the letter issued to Dale Bumstead of Scion Strategies Ltd.

“I know Mr. Bumstead stated he’s done nothing with that letter at this point in time. But that letter is still out there and due to a lot of misguided information, many people are definitely feeling that letter is basically giving him the thumbs up to sort of push this through without listening to the public first,” said Veach.

Area E Director Dan Rose agreed the outcry was partly fueled by misinformation, but feels the public are owed another meeting as promised by the PRRD.

“We don’t have the authority to implement or to pull away from this. This was done in good faith, like we do to many organizations as far as recommending discussion about a concept and whether there was any interest in bringing it forward here,” said Rose.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story idea or opinion? Email tsummer@ ahnfsj.ca

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Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

was a full house at the Pomeroy Convention Centre fpr Treaty Land Sharing discussionsso much so the meeting was cancelled due to capacity issues. A secone meeting is slated for June 28 at the North Peace Arena, 10:00 am

Todd Buck Reporter/Photographer

The North Peace Gymnastics Association took 47 athletes to Quesnel, BC June 2-3 to compete in the Gold Pan Invitational as well as the Zone 8 Championships.

“Being the many of the athletes last meets of the season it was absolutely wonderful to see the majority of them

NPGA triumphs at Gold Pan Invitational

Bronze

walking away with season best and personal best scores which lead to our club bringing in the following awards for the weekend,” said Mimi Lessard, Coach with the NPGA.

Awards for the competition were as follows.

· Gold (1st place)-32

· Silver (2ndplace)-28

ANNUALFINANCIALSTATEMENTS

Asrequiredby LocalGovernmentAct S.376,thePeaceRiver RegionalDistrictBoardwillbepresentingthe2022Statementof FinancialInformation(SOFI),includingFinancialStatementsat itsmeetingscheduledfor10:00am,Thursday,June29,2023at theDawsonCreekofficelocatedat1981AlaskaAvenue,Dawson Creek,BC

TheSOFIandFinancialStatementsareavailableforpublic inspection,duringregularbusinesshours,atthePeaceRiver RegionalDistrictofficeslocatedat:

DawsonCreek FortSt.John

1981AlaskaAvenue 9505–100thStreet

Contact:

RoxanneShepherd, ChiefFinancialOfficer

250-784-3219•TollFree:1-800-670-7773

Email: prrd.dc@prrd.bc.ca

BoardmeetingsarelivestreamedoverFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialPRRD/

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· Bronze (3rd place)-22

· Countless ribbons marking placings from 4thto 8th.

· Brielle MacDougall – Most Captivating Artistry on Floor

· Natalia Carroll- Fantastic Flow for Bars

· Hunter Earle- Rapid Runner for Vault and Tidy Tumbler for Floor

· Abby Baker-Fantastic Flow for Bars

· Alexis Moore – Rapid Runner for Vault

· Lylia Marin – an Award for floor and an award for beam

· Sophia MacDougall was the AllAround Zone 8 Champion for Xcel

· Anika Carroll was the Floor Champion for Xcel Platinum

· Kathryn Yates was the Vault, Bars, and Beam Champion for Xcel Platinum as well as the All-around Xcel Champion for Xcel Platinum.

As well, our team received the Team Spirit Award for The Gold Pan Invitational.

“We cannot express how proud we are of these kids and how far they’ve come this season,” said Lessard in a statement.

tbuck@ahnfsj.ca

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Graham Goertzen picked up the weekend win during New Totem Archery Club was hosting a 3D archery shoot over the weekend of June 10-11 in Fort St John, BC.

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Students learn all about bike safety

TW Buck Reporter/ Photographer

Students from Alwin Holland Elementary got the opportunity to drop in for the second annual Community Bike Night on Wednesday, June 7, in the main parking lot of the school.

“This year was about bike helmets and safety signs,” said Meiling Hong, teacher at Alwin Holland and one of the organizers of Bike Night. “Lots of these kids haven’t biked with groups before, so we really focused on following signs and being careful around others on your bike.”

Obstacles had been arranged in the parking lot to mimic situations that the students are bound to run into while biking outside of the school property.

The students were taught the fundamentals about bicycle helmet safety such as the importance of wearing a helmet that fits, and making sure that they are secured properly.

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Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Fort St. John Association for Community Living will cohost a panel discussion on June 28 at the North Peace Cultural Centre, highlighting the experiences of employers who aspire to be disability inclusive and the difference their employees make.

Throughout June, 10 free in-person workshops are being held in Fort St. John, Prince George, Surrey, Vancouver, Smithers, Terrace, Cranbrook, Victoria, and Powell River, for businesses interested in learning about becoming more inclusive.

Community Living’s Inclusion and Employment Manager

Sheri Ashdown said they were approached by Inclusion Powell River to take part and felt they would be a good fit to cohost as they already collaborate with Powell River on other panels. They’ve also overseen several successful job placements in Fort St. John with local businesses.

“We have really good matching processes that we put in place, it takes a little longer to hire somebody, but we really put in the initial footwork to ensure that the person we place matches the business’ needs matches their abilities and

likes,” said Ashdown, noting their employment program has a 95 percent retention rate.

The roadshow is just one part of a research report led by Inclusion Powell River, with $803,000 in provincial funding provided to engage with businesses and expand accessibility in the workplace

Representatives from Urban Systems and the City of Fort St. John are expected to speak at the panel, noted Ashdown, as they’ve both partnered with Community Living to create what she calls ‘job carved’ positions.

“We go in and kind of pull parts of positions within the organization or company, and create a position for someone

we support,” she said. Selfemployed people, BC employers, and people who identify as having a disability are all welcome to attend.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story idea or opinion? Email tsummer@ ahnfsj.ca

A craft fair was recently held on June 10, at Dr. Kearney Middle School (DKMS) in Fort St John which had 24 tables of school district staff and friends showcasing their crafty sides. There were numerous handmade products as well as other typical name-brand products found at these venues. BUCK

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Former ACL Executive Director Joseph Lang stands with Northern Cohort Researcher Keira Nichol, ACL Staff Ron Birchall, and volunteers/future farmers Isabelle Paynter and Andrea Conkin at the vegetable and greenhouse acreage in Baldonnel back in the summer of 2021 SUMMER

Broken legs: Peace River Zone Theatre hands out awards

TW Buck Reporter/ Photographer

Last week, for the first time since 2019, the Peace River Zone Theatre Festival was taking place at the North Peace Senior Secondary, which hosted three nights for three amazing shows in Fort St john.

On Wednesday June 7th, NPSS presented: The Greek Olympiaganza, Thursday June 8th, Stage North presented: Journey to the Center of the Earth, Friday June 9th, Stage North presented: The Exquisite Hour.

These awards were

• Best Ensemble - The Greek Olympiaganza (NPSS)

• Best Technical Show - Journey to the Center of the Earth (Stage North)

• Honorable Mention Supporting Performer - Logan Mackenzie

• Best Supporting Performer - Brody Daniele

• Best Supporting Performer - Steve Hunter

Elvisisalive!

• Best Lead Performer - J.P. Wood

• Best Lead Performer - Tessa Wilkenson and Adrain Dettling

• Best DirectorKevin Smith

• Best ShowThe Exquisite Hour (Stage North)

According to officials, Stage North’s production of The Exquisite Hour will now continue on to perform at Mainstage; a week-long Theatre Festival mid-July in Surrey where they will represent the Peace River Zone alongside the other prov

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Mark Nielsen

- June Skye Marilyn Michel (born 1993) was sentenced to three years probation for being an accessory to a crime after the fact and to time served for breaching a release order, committed in Fort Nelson. Michel was in custody for seven days following her arrest on the accessory count and time

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served in relation to the breach was not available.

- Tyson Samuel Logan (born 1987) was sentenced to time served for two counts of breaching an undertaking, committed in Chetnwynd and Moberly Lake. Time served was not available.

- Kelly Donald Shular (born 1975) was sentenced to 15 months probation and issued a five-year firearms prohibition and ordered to provide a DNA sample for uttering threats, possessing a firearm without a licence or registration, possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose and two counts of breaching an undertaking and to time served for two counts

of mischief $5,000 or under, a further count of breaching an undertaking and three counts of breaching a release order, all committed in Fort St. John. Shular was in custody for 109 days prior to sentencing.

- Isaiah Sterling Acko (born 1983) was sentenced to two days in jail and nine months probation for two counts of breaching a release order, committed in Fort St. John. Acko was in custody for three days prior to sentencing.

- Jayden Raphael John (born 2001) was sentenced to seven days in jail for breaching a release order, committed in Fort St. John. John was in custody for 16 days prior to sentencing.

- Allan Brian Allarie (born 1965) was prohibited from driving for two years and fined $1,500 plus a $225 victim surcharge for driving while prohibited under the Motor Vehicle Act, committed in Dawson Creek.

- Kyle Duncan Campbell (born 1986) was sentenced to a 420-day conditional sentence order and one year probation and issued a 10-year firearms prohibition for knowingly occupying a vehicle in which there is a firearm and sentenced to time served and fined $500 for driving while prohibited or licence suspended under the Motor Vehicle Act, committed in Sunset Prairie. Time served was not available.

- Stanley James Chapman (born 1956) was prohibited from driving for three months and fined $1,000 plus a $150 victim surcharge for driving without due care and attention

under the Motor Vehicle Act, committed in Tumbler Ridge.

- Lyndsay Jenna Leigh Yellowdirt (born 1996) was issued a one-year $500 peace bond after an allegation of causing fear of injury or damage in Fort St. John.

- Thomas Everett Forbes (born 1973) was sentenced to 18 months probation, ordered to provide a DNA sample for assault causing bodily harm and to time served for breaching a release order, both committed in Chetwynd. Forbes was also assessed $200 in victim surcharges and was in custody for 39 days prior to sentencing.

- Aleaha Summer Dawn Newhook (born 1997) was prohibited from driving for one year and fined $1,000 for driving while impaired, committed in Fort St. John.

- Alan James Joseph Renouf (born 1980) was sentenced to a three-month conditional sentence order and three months probation and assessed a $200 victim surcharge for break and enter with intent to commit an offence, committed in Fort St. John. Renouf was in custody for 15 days following his arrest.

- Edgar Walter (born 1987) was issued a one-year $500 peace bond after an allegation of causing fear of injury or damage in Fort St. John.

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Fort Nelson fire department tackling busy season

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Fort Nelson fire department has been busy this year, with 240 calls for service. Fire Chief James Childs says they’re always open to new recruits looking to lend a hand.

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“So far, our fire season has been pretty busy. We’ve done quite a few brush fires, grass fires, we did deal with a lot of structure fires,” said Childs. The structure fires are suspicious in nature and currently under investigation, he noted.

The department is staffed by Childs, the deputy chief, a dispatcher, six full-time firefighters, and 15 on-call members. Ideally, he’d like to see the on-call members rise to 25, said Childs.

“We’re always looking for new paid on-call firefighters,”

said Childs. The only requirements are to be at least 19 years of age, a clean criminal record check and be able to commit to the training.

Fort Nelson also trains with Toad River on occasion and donated one of their retired pump trucks to the neighbouring community, as Toad lacks a formal fire department.

“We do some training with them and we’re looking at doing something with Prophet River in the future as well,” said Childs. “The municipality do-

Northern Health remains silent on Bill 36

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Northern Health says they’re unable to comment on Bill 36, which consolidates the number of BC’s regulatory health colleges from 15 down to six.

Given that it’s a bill we wouldn’t be commenting on it. I’d recommend you reach out to ministry for any comments around impacts,” wrote Mark Hendricks, Communicatons Lead, Capital Projects with Northern Health.

The boards of the colleges included will now be appointed by the government, rather than the current system where boards are partially elected by those in the medical profession.

The bill has already seen backlash from the public, with 10,000 people signing a petition in opposition of the changes. It was presented to the legislature by Independent MLA for Nechako Lakes, John Rustad, asking the government to reconsider the new legislation.

“What I’m hearing from Doc-

tors and nurses, in particular, is that they aren’t comfortable losing the ability to govern their own professions. Amongst other changes, Bill 36 removes independent, elected positions and shifts oversight of health professions to government appointees,” said Rustad.

He further added that the bill was written without consultation from healthcare workers, behind closed doors. The colleges included have also been asked to sign NDAs.

r. Jennifer Lush, an MD with a practice in Victoria, has pub-

nated that one to Toad River, so they would have a water truck available if they ever needed it.”

Squad 1 remains the latest addition to the Fort Nelson fleet, serving as a medical aid vehicle.

“Squad 1’s doing really really well. It runs all of our medical calls for BC Ambulance,” Childs said.

Childs has been the fire chief since 2019, and celebrated 25 years with the Northern Rockies

licly criticized the 278-page bill in a scathing commentary in the Times Colonist.

“You quietly stabbed health care in the back in the form of Bill 36, which was rushed through the approval process with little notice and no opportunity for public discussion or debate, as it received royal assent on the same day,” wrote Lush of the bill’s passing this past November.

Health Minister Adrian Dix defended the bill In January and said the colleges are meant to represent the public inter-

in 2021.

“I just love being the fire chief. It’s a progressive, very well put together fire department. The municipality treats us well, and we just want to provide the best service we can, the service the community deserves,” said Childs at the time.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story idea or opinion? Email tsummer@ ahnfsj.ca

est, not those in the profession, and that the new legislation will help to impartially regulate the profession.

“Bill 36 is the first reform of the health professions act in 30 years. Considering the changes in healthcare in that time, it’s a timely and important reform,” said Dix.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story idea or opinion? Email tsummer@ ahnfsj.ca

Please meet Chetwynd’s artist in residence

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Born and raised in Chetwynd to a ranching family, Hilde Kirschbaum says nature has always been a big inspiration for her art. Chosen as Arts North East’s Open Sky 2023 artist in residence, Kirschbaum will be painting and creating in studio at the Tamarack Hall in Chetwynd’s rec centre.

A vet tech by trade, Kirschbaum left the community for three years to pursue her education before returning. She’s been home for the past eight years and has enjoyed reconnecting with the community over art and more.

“Since I’ve been living back at home, people have approached me with projects,” said Kirschbaum. “Like a friend asked me to illustrate her kids book and so, things like that have kept me going in art.”

Her love of art started in highschool, where she was encouraged by one of her teachers. Kirschbaum enjoys a wide variety of mediums - acrylic, pottery, encaustic, and watercolour.

“She really helped me explore a lot of different kinds of art - we did clay and glass, and drawing, several mediums, she really set me on track for that and encouraged me to enter things in exhibits, even during high-school,” said Kirschbaum.

Currently she’s working with

acrylics as part of the residence, as the paint allows flexibility, she can pick it up and put it down as residents drop by to visit.

“I’m focusing on just simple acrylic painting, largely because there’s so many people in and outso it’s nice to have something that’s not super time sensitive, it’s easy to put down and visit and talk about art,” said Kirschbaum.

Nature has always been a frequent subject of her art, said Kirschbaum, who’s working on a painting of sunflowers, from a photo she took at her cousin’s wedding last year.

“Being out on the ranch I spend a lot of time in nature, and so there’s just a lot of opportunity to see beautiful things that inspire you and snap pictures of it, or just take an afternoon to get out with your paints and try to capture that,” she said.

The residency is a great opportunity to create, especially before the busy haying season starts, says Kirschbaum, grateful for the exhibition on display.

“I’ve really enjoyed looking at the exhibit and discussing all the different pieces with people, and getting to appreciate so much art from all the artists around the region,” Kirschbaum said.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story or opinion? Email tsummer@ahnfsj.ca

BCHydroisadvisingcustomersinDawsonCreekwithpropertiesalongan approximately4.6kilometresectionof96Avenueofanupcomingcapital projectintheirneighbourhood.Thisimportantworkwillimprovethe reliabilityandresiliencyoftheelectricalsysteminthecommunityand reducethelikelihoodofunexpectedoutages.

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Seniors’ Hall

by Pamela den Ouden

Fraud. No one likes to think they are gullible enough to be taken in by frauds and scams, but Constable Paul Waterman of the RCMP Serious Crime Unit stressed in his presentation to the Seniors Expo and Tea that “nasty criminals are preying” on people, and seniors are especially vulnerable. As a former accountant, Waterman specializes in fraud investigations. Scammers “have very good stories. They do a very good job” said Waterman. “Remember you’re dealing with professionals, and they keep you in a state of panic.” It seems the “three R’s” are no longer “reading, writing, and ’rithmatic” but “recognize, reject, and report” fraud.

Those at the luncheon also heard sound financial advice from Donna Greenway, an elder planning counselor: “It’s important for you not to get bullied into doing something you don’t understand.”

MLA Shirley Bond, Shadow Minister for Health, Seniors Services and Long-Term Care, spoke about World Elder Abuse Day, and said we have to “look out for each other” and “speak up on behalf of those who need help.” Bond pointed out that most seniors want to live in community as long as possible, and asked, “What do we need to do differently?” to make this happen.

About 200 seniors attended the luncheon and fair, which had information booths from more than 25 organizations.

Some Health Unit services relocated As of Monday, June 12, 2023,

Home Care Services and Public Health Services (Immunizations, Sexual Health OPT) have been relocated to the Fort St. John Medical Clinic (10011-96 St.) from the FSJ Health Unit. These services will be available from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (closed Saturday, Sunday, and statutory holidays).

The Fort St. John Health Unit (10115-110 Ave.) will continue to offer the following services Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.: hearing and audiology services, dental, environmental health, licencing, home support programs. To book an appointment for any of these services, please call 250-263-6000.

If you’d like your voice to be heard on matters pertaining to the health and wellbeing of our community, you can take part in the BC Speak Survey. It takes about 20 minutes to complete and can be accessed until the end of the month at www.bccdc.ca/ SpeakSurvey.

SONS (Save Our Seniors) presented three urgent needs to the Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services. First, concerning facilities: the need for a third house at Peace Villa. Second, support in all areas; for example, home support services. Finally, staffing in all areas of health care.

Congratulations to the first nursing graduates from UNBC in Fort St. John, seven of whom are staying right here in our community.

Contact me at phbeav@gmail. com or at 250-787-7311 with seniors’ news!

Shotgun robbery suspect in custody

Zury Reschke is now is custody and is suspected to be Fort St. John’s shotgun robber.

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Earlier this week, RCMP put out a plea to the public to help identify a man involved in a pair of FSJ robberies.

RCMP received Information which led to the arrest of Zury Reschke on June 8, 2023. Reschke has been held for court.

BC Crown Prosecution Services has approved charges of: Robbery with a Firearm (2 counts), Disguise with Intent (2 counts), Careless Use of a Firearm (2 counts) and Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose.

“Working together with the public created additional leads which led to this quick arrest”, said Constable Chad Neustaeter, Media Relations Officer for the Fort St John RCMP. Reschke is remanded in custody until June 15.

editor@dcdn.ca

Wanted after removing ankle monitor

Fort St John RCMP request assistance of the public in locating 32-year-old Nathan Robert Field. Field is currently wanted for Breach of Release Order and Mischief under $5000 after removing his ankle monitor.

Field is described as an indigenous male, 6 feet 3 inches tall (191 cm), 170 lbs (43 kg), brown eyes, brown hair, and tattoo of the word Family on right side of neck. Field was last seen on June 10 in Fort St John, but also has ties to the Prince George, BC area.

If anyone has information on Nathan Field’s whereabouts please contact the Fort St John RCMP at (250) 787-8100. Should you wish to remain anonymous, please call Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.northernbccrimestoppers.ca.

editor@dcdn.ca

OPINION John Grady; the Lord of the Second chance

John Grady Columnist

All of us can understand and relate to the game of baseball when the batter has 3 strikes against them, they are declared struck out. Edmonton Oiler fans can also relate to the Oilers having a successful regular season but when it really counts in the playoffs they are known to lose and are finished for the season. What about our relationship with Our Lord? When we “strike out” does He leave us, abandon us, turn His back on us, discard us and ignore us? What happens if He gives us something specific to do and we choose to ignore it, rebel against it, or decide we know best on how it can get done and do it our way? Since none of us would ever ignore, rebel, or decide we know best the

greatest reference of who God is and His reaction to those who would do such a thing is to refer to His word and examine how He dealt with those that did and the roles and behavior.

Abram, one of the Patriarchs of our faith, and his wife Sarai were childless, and they agreed that Abram would sleep with the maid which he did, and she conceived and had a son. Many years later when Abram was 99 and Sarai 90 years of age the Lord told him they were to have a son and the Lord would confirm His covenant with them and their child and subsequent children would inherit the land of Israel.

The Lord changed Abram’s name to Abraham and Sarai to Sarah and a year later Isaac their offspring was born, and God’s covenant and purpose was eventually fulfilled.

Moses a Hebrew boy,

LETTER: thank-you, good samaritan

I want to reach out to recognize a Good Samaritan in your community.

We have been traveling in a class B van from Maple Ridge, BC for the last three weeks.

We had an unfortunate situation on Range Ave and 271 Rd on June 8 around 5pm. During an attempted turn around our rear wheels ended up stuck in the soft shoulder with no hope of getting out without a pull. While on the phone with BCAA an incredibly kind man named Paul drove up in his Burgundy

pickup truck.

Paul immediately surveyed the situation and said “I can help!” He then jumped out of his truck and attached a rope to his truck and to our van- we were out of the sand in seconds!

We really want him to know how grateful we are for his help. He made a bad situation good as he graced us with his kind and generous spirit! I hope he reads this letter!

Gratefully, Paul and Mary Lou

Drescher

adopted by the daughter of Pharaoh the ruler of Egypt and at age 40 Moses in coming to the help of a Hebrew boy being beaten by an Egyptian killed the Egyptian and then for 40 years lived in isolation as a shepherd of sheep. At age 80 God called him to deliver the Hebrews out of Egypt.

David, a shepherd boy, a mighty warrior, psalmist, worshipper, king in having an adulterous affair arranged to have the mistresses husband killed. David was not allowed to build the temple for the Lord but is known as a man after God’s heart.

Jonah was told by the Lord to go to the city of Nineveh and preach against it because of its wickedness and rebellion. Jonah instead got on a ship heading to Tarshish, only a violent storm threated the safety of all on the ship. Jonah instructed the

sailors to throw him overboard and the sea would be calm because Jonah knew the Lord was dealing with him. The sailors did throw Jonah overboard (the sea was then calm) as the Lord provided a large fish who swallowed Jonah up for 3 days and nights and in that time Jonah got himself right with the Lord and the Lord instructed the fish to vomit Jonah onto dry land. Jonah obeyed the lord and proclaimed the Lord’s message and when the people responded to the message the Lord had compassion on them.

If we jump to the New Testament, we see Peter a disciple of Jesus Christ who denied Jesus 3 times while Jesus was being arrested. You can imagine the shame, guilt, brokenness that Peter felt but as a means of restoring Peter to become a leading Apostle and early church leader He asks Peter 3 times.

“Do you love me” with the follow up “feed my sheep” (you and I).

The question is how does this affect you and me with our Holy and forgiving Lord? There are consequences to our sin and behavior BUT He is long suffering for us, always trying to get our attention in spite of our hard hearts as He understands our humanity and frailty. His love for us is not dependent on our love for Him but we do need to turn to Him and put ourselves right with Him as we serve this amazing Lord of the 2nd chance. He loves you and desires you. Just turn to Him.

John Grady Fort St John

OPINION Merlin Nichols: these are troubled times

Merlin Nichols Columnist

Flood and fire, two scourges that have plagued humanity since the beginning of time are still with us and we haven’t learned a whole lot about how to deal with them. Running when they approach seems to help in the short term, but longterm solutions are more of a hope-to-maybe-someday-ifever variety.

To be sure, our dear leaders have some gassy ideas about how to reduce the threats, but I think they are pipe dreams.

Of course, we can avoid building in the floodplain but with the short streams out of the mountains it is not always easy to identify a floodplain. And those streams are quick to change directions when an obstacle like a fallen tree diverts the flow.

Periodic dredging and clearing of other impediments to free flow of water in some streams when their beds are dry, and the fish have retreated to the river, would be a major asset in preventing serious overflow, but permission of Fish and Wildlife is hard to come by.

Protecting fish habitat is the

ostensible reason. But anyone who has observed a paste,g torrent in one of these mountain drainage beds will know that any fish sad enough to be caught in the flood would be reduced to paste and the habitat rendered unrecognizable. Oh, well.

Fire presents a different set of risks. Those of us who are surrounded by trees must be prepared to take defensive measures before being threatened by fire.

But unless we are inclined to move to the asphalt jungle and face a whole different set of challenges, we’ll hang out where we are and be thankful for mercies. We are living in troubled times, and the Scriptures warn us that we can expect these troubled times to become more troubled, more chaotic, more angry, more dangerous as time moves on.

Scripture also tells us multiple times and in various ways not to be afraid; fear not, the God who created this earth and placed us on it has a plan for fixing the mess we have made of His beautiful and sustainable planet. He knows us intimately, our fears, our dreams, our am-

bitions, and the number of hairs on our heads. He has called us by name, and we are His possession. This may be small comfort as you watch your life’s work with everything you prize float down the river or go up in smoke. However, given the uncer tainty of the times and of the world economies, it might be the best comfort you could ask for.

What we are seeing, feeling, experiencing is evil and the result of evil. In the beginning, the Creator put the human race, in its purity and innocence, in charge of running this earth. He also gave us freedom to choose to whom we would report.

Sadly, tragically, humanity opted to believe the destroyer, the devil in disguise, and turned over the keys of our paradisal estate and the management of the earth to him.

And we see the result in fire, flood, fearful storms, earthquakes, land slides, and other “natural” evils increasing in frequency and intensity – a sign explicitly stated in Holy Scripture that the end of this present age is approaching, to be superseded by the Age to come.

It may feel like the murky

waters of this flood of evil, “natural” and human generated, will wash over us, that the searing heat of uncontrolled human passion will crisp our minds, but we have our Father’s promise to be with us.

The fires of evil may threaten to incinerate our mortal frames. The flood of societal dissolution may be about to engulf us, but God assures us that when we walk through the flames we will not be burned; when we pass through the waters, they will not overwhelm us because He is with us.

Our Creator Father says, “Do not be afraid for I am with you” (Isaiah 43:1-5).

Awesome! Like the three young men in Nebuchadnezzar’s seven-times heated furnace.

And if God is for us, who can be against us (Romans 8:31)?

God is for us!

Even so, I am quite aware that some readers who might have made it this far in their reading do not believe in a Creator God who takes an interest in our daily affairs. A God who knows when we run from the flames or struggle out of the muddy water.

And cares.

But we do, and He is actively working behind the scenes to rescue us from the results of the bad choices we and our ancestors made and that we continue to make.

As free moral agents, responsible for our own decisions, we can turn down His invitation to life. Unlike our governments, He will not order us out of harm’s way.

In the meantime, we must contend with the vicissitudes of life as we encounter them and take the good with the bad.

But there is no law, civic or natural, that require us to take the bad sitting down. Some of the bad stuff happening out there must be resisted. Some of it must be ferreted out. We have been endowed with minds that can reason and we have to come to our own conclusions about the fare we are handed daily in multiple doses.

So, think clearly, keep your hands on the wheel, and look way ahead,

Merlin Nichols Chetwynd

OPINION Evan Saugstad: Un-Convenient Truth –reality eventually trumps dreams

Evan Saugstad Columnist

Canada has never met a “climate” target? We, or as I would like to say, them, have missed nine targets in a row!

“Canada has had nine climate plans since 1990 and has failed to hit any of the targets in them. Federal Environment and Sustainable Development Commissioner Jerry V. DeMarco said Canada has been the worst performer among G7 nations on climate targets since the landmark Paris Agreement was adopted in 2015.” (CBC March 2022)

Did you know that even the most diehard anti petroleum/pro climate fan-

atics are now admitting we will miss number 10.

Wonder why? I don’t but can say I am happy that Canada will miss another and even happier that our country is beginning to awake to the realization that our climate targets are as bogus as our 1$ bill.

But before you jump up and down and scream that I just don’t get it and that I am one of “those deniers”, understand that it isn’t that we shouldn’t have targets and/or that we shouldn’t be doing more to address our changing climate and more importantly, its impacts. Our targets must be achievable, believable and make economic sense, not some political pipe dream that sounds

great, but will not make all our lives better.

If you live in rural Canada, you likely understand the why behind our missed targets. If you live in our largest cities, likely just the opposite. It is also no secret conservatism is alive and well in over 90% of Canada; the rural part, the Canada that understands why we cannot meet ill-conceived targets that punish our lives and lifestyles. It also no secret that socialism is alive and well in the other 10 precent of Canada we call cites and where unfortunately, over 80 percent of Canada lives. A place where our climate targets are set and where so many are apoplectic about Canada’s failed climate agenda.

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So why is that? Are rural conservatives just smarter than our socialist big city brothers and sisters? Does living in a city numbs one’s brain to the realities of life, or is there something else at play?

For way too many years our socialistic governments and mainstream media have been force feeding us all that meeting Ottawa’s (and Victoria’s) self-imposed climate targets are what is most important to our country. But hey, and finally, our media is beginning to look past the rhetoric of creating phoney targets that pander to their socialist voters and are coming to the same conclusions that us country’s rube’s have been saying for years; we cannot and will not meet them as they are currently set and presented.

So why do our governments keep up with that same insane rhetoric? And why do they keep doubling down and increasing the targets as if that will make our lives better?

In a democracy everyone has one vote; we are all considered equal, that is unless you are a marginalized person or some other person with specialized interests where our governments say are exempt from being treated as mere equals. Unfortunately, when it comes to setting climate targets, the city majority rule (mostly socialists) is where most of their votes are and the rural populations (mostly conservatives) are routinely ignored as that is where their votes aren’t, how do you spell Alberta or Saskatchewan?

But despite the odds, we try and finally, I think we are making some headway with our big city cousins.

Many of Canada’s climate action policies and programs seem to make sense in the big picture, in that if followed, will reduce our use and reliance on fossil fuels. Unfortunately, when viewed holistically, make little to no sense. Said it before and say it again. Our climate is changing, have watched it change with my own eyes in my lifetime. Just not so certain our science and their conclusions on what it means have got it all correct. Allot more certain that our current crop of political leaders has missed the boat.

I have a long-standing belief that to correct our mistakes, we must first let things become intolerable, and in that, I believe we have crossed that threshold. Our next federal election will be the test on whether Canada has got its climate targets right. Not so much as a direct question to the voters on what we believe, but one about its affordability and costs to the average Canadian.

In short, when one’s wallet is running on empty, voters (including those who pay Canada’s taxes) will vote for someone that will put cash back into that void. We have gone through the “free” cash by COVID phase, distributed a few more “free” dollars to try and make up for the now skyrocketing price increases, but that is ending. Ottawa, (and Victoria), are running out of money, and

more importantly, running out of ways to tax what ever we have left in that skinny wallet.

Something must give, and it will start by someone pitching change, and federally, that will be Pierre and his federal Conservatives. Although they will not have all the answers (will not be able to cancel the $20+ billion Justin has promised the worlds largest car manufactures to build batteries in Ontario), they will cancel the carbon tax and with that, begin to adjust our “climate” targets to become one’s that make both economic sense and are achievable. Instead of everything being judged by our failed climate targets, we will move back to judging Canada on a more holistic level, that being balancing an economy and our environment for the benefit of all.

For western Canada, that will mean that we go back to providing the rest of the world with what they demand, our natural resources, including gas, oil, coal, and back to regulatory regime that places a greater emphasis on our economy.

Am I too optimistic?

Don’t think so, as just as surely as the tide goes in and out, we will as a country, survive the disastrous Trudeau years and move back to a country where our economy matters.

Lots of things need fixing, but it all starts with affordability. After all, cash is still king, especially so when it is in your pocket, and so far, a place no one as figured out how to tax.

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Cross-Canada electric road trip passes through FSJ, Dawson Creek

Rob Brown Managing Editor

When I connect with Richard and Nicole Ivity – they’ve announced they are tired of their gas.

Of course this has nothing to do with their diets – rather consumption of a different kind.

The couple are in the midst of a rolling 10-province, two-territory EV Awareness and Advocacy Campaign in a four-door Rivian R1T full size electric truck to do what they can to accelerate the EV industry across the country.

“We use an app to find all the plug-ins across Canada,” says Richard, adding a fully charged truck rolls over 550 km before needing another charge.

“We can also charge at RV parks and sites,” says Nicole, adding more weight or the tent

rig on the bed of the truck adds drag.

“We draft on the highway, and this adds 15/20 percent (more mileage) as well.”

A Formula-1 and NASCAR staple, drafting allow a front truck to break the wind (so to speak), allowing a following vehicle to work less to drive the same speed.

The pair are committed to move towards a greener future by making choices that are better for our communities and our planet.

“This EV advocacy work is one aspect of how we have adopted the green mentality to help make the world a cleaner and more sustainable home for today and generations of tomorrow,” adds Richard.

The couple decided to hit the road as the pandemic was easing.

The pair left Vancouver May 23 – were already north - and will be hitting Prince George and further into southern B.C. before making their way east over the next seven months.

“We’re connecting with electric and auto shows, events

across Canada.”

The pair say they are an example of changes people can make.

“We make a point of plugging our phones in everywhere, it is just a change of habits,” Richard says.

Follow the pair’s adventures at evroadtrip.ca where you can find their live trip tracker and more.

editor@dcdn.ca

Newt BROWN

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Peace River Regional District held a discussion at their June 8 board meeting on whether to reapply for membership in the North Central Local Government Association in 2024.

At the meeting, directors passed a motion to defer discussion and decision on membership until fall 2023.

The PRRD opted out of membership in NCLGA in 2022 and again in 2023, based on a lack of perceived benefit resulting from participation. $21,641 was paid by the PRRD in 2021 for membership.

Fort St. John Mayor Lilia Hansen is in full support of membership with the NCGLA and believes it’s a good investment for the PRRD and local municipalities.

“I think it’s important that we

speak with a unified voice of everyone at the table here. We share many common interests and concerns, and the government will listen to us more readily and with more open ears - because we’re coming with multiple mayors and directors,” said Hansen.

She added while it does cost money, it’s allowed the City of Fort St. John to take resolutions to the Union of BC Municipalities through the NCGLA.

“I think working together, we’ll go farther,” Hansen said.

Tumbler Ridge Mayor Darryl Krakowka expressed concern over how fees to the NCGLA are paid, noting it should be a shared cost through the PRRD.

“I’m not looking for it to come from electoral area directors, I believe it should be a shared membership from the all directors’ municipalities,” he said. “But before we were to do that, I did talk to staff about reaching out to the NCGLA in regards to regional districts.”

He further added that a credit to municipalities from the NCGLA would be reasonable, if they’re already paying both a regional district fee and their own individual membership.

When asked by Hansen on how membership was previously funded, PRRD CAO Shawn Dahlen clarified it was paid for by the electoral areas from 2006 to 2016, paid by the entire regional district in 2017 to 2020, and paid again solely by the electoral areas in 2021.

Electoral Area E Director Dan Rose feels rural residents would be underserved by membership in the NCGLA and said it’s premature to make a decision without more information, suggesting it would be better to defer to the fall when budgets are discussed.

“I think it’s actually a bit of a conflict to try and reduce your municipal rate and offload it onto the rural areas. And I do

agree with director Hansen that a unified voice is fine, but our rural voice many times is quite a bit different than the municipal voice,” he said.

“So, I think there needs to be more information, and you have no idea that NCGLA would even accept that kind of a proposal anyways, because it would affect all their other fee structure throughout the NCGLA area,” added Rose.

Electoral Area C Director Brad Sperling agreed that more information is needed to make a decision, noting there’s also the formalization and expansion of the Peace River Local Government Association (PRLGA) to be discussed from a report in the committee of the whole.

The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality (NRRM) and representatives from neighbouring First Nations communities are two partners who’ve been considered to include.

“I’d like to have that con-

PRRD to issue letter of support for women’s ministry

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Peace River Regional District will issue a letter of support to Rising Above Ministries FSJ, who’s seeking $10,000 from a BC Hydro GO Fund to create a women’s multipurpose

residence for those battling addictions and other self-destructive behaviour.

The recommendation was passed by the PRRD at their June 8 board meeting, and passed unanimously with no comments or discussion by electoral directors.

Formerly the New Day in the Peace Ministries, the nonprofit has changed their name in partnering with Rising Above Grande Prairie who is allowing the ministry to bring their program to Fort St. John.

In a May 4, 2023 letter to the PRRD, Rising Above Minis-

Hudson’s Hope pioneers recognized

Tom Summer Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Hudson’s Hope rodeo committee is commemorating the legacies of pioneers Dick Ardill and Norm Guelly with a new volunteer award plaque.

In 1958, Ardill and Gary Powell started the first rodeo in Hudson’s Hope. Guelly was one of the first supporters and spent many years sharing that passion with the community.

Committee members Yvonne Moritz and Shona May Campbell Duff took the initiative to honour their memory by having the Hudson’s Hope Rodeo Volunteer Award plaque created.

“I wanted to create something that every year we can put names on for recognition. I believe that people who

work really hard, especially volunteers, should be recognized,” said Moritz.

With the passing of Guelly in January, she says the timing felt right for the plaque, as Moritz had begun researching to create a pamphlet on the history of the Hudson’s Hope rodeo.

“It’s a good event that people come together, and there’s just no negativity in it,” said Moritz. “You can’t not have a good time.”

A dedicated member and former president of the Double H Saddle Club, Guelly was instrumental in building the indoor arena and spent countless hours volunteering at the rodeo grounds.

The last open rodeo was held in 2008, but plans are being made to bring it back this year, said Moritz.

tries stated that the purpose of the program is to help people with “Addictions, Anger issues, Low Self Esteem, Anxiety, or Self Sabotaging Behaviour that cause cycles of defeat.”

The plan is to start with a women’s ministry in the former New Day facility, and eventu-

Ardill passed away in 2021, but celebrated 50 years with the club in 2018. Commercialization changed the face of rodeo, said the rancher, noting the event was always rooted in community entertainment.

“In those days, nobody worked for money, it was all just volunteers. There were no prizes to start with, you rode for the fun of it,” said Ardill in 2018.

Moritz says the plaque won’t end with Guelly and Ardill, volunteers from the past and present will be added every year going forward.

“I really like history, and I just don’t want this to be forgotten,” she said.

A small ceremony will be held July 8 at the rodeo to present the plaque

versation before, at least at the time that we’re looking at this. I have talked to the Northern Rockies, they are interested in having that conversation. And maybe if it goes one way, the whole Northeast would belong to it.” said Sperling.

He added that the membership structure and large fee has made it difficult to bring electoral area issues forward, noting there’s a reliance on PRRD board approval, rather than speaking independently.

“We have to go there with regional issues, we don’t have the opportunity to only go there with electoral area issues, and that’s part of the problem that we saw with paying that kind of money,” Sperling said.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story idea or opinion? Email tsummer@ ahnfsj.ca

ally add a men’s ministry in the next three years. Funding would be used to staff the residence.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story or opinion? Email tsummer@ahnfsj.ca

to Kim Munroe and Renee Ardill, the daughters of Guelly and Ardill, respectively - accepting in honour of their fathers.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story or opinion? Email tsummer@ahnfsj.ca

Editor’s note: Article has been updated to reflect rodeo and presentation date.

Tom Summer, Alaska Highway News, Local Journalism Initiative. Have a story or opinion? Email tsummer@ahnfsj.ca

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING

NOTICEOFSPECIALMEETING

Wednesday,June28,2023

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

North Peace Arena, 9805 96 Ave, Fort St. John, BC 10:00 am.

NorthPeaceArena,980596Ave,FortSt.John,BC 10:00am.

ThePeaceRiverRegionalDistrict(PRRD)herebygivesnoticeofitsintentionto holdaSpecialCommitteeoftheWholeMeetingon Wednesday,June28,2023, atthe NorthPeaceArena,980596Ave,FortSt.John,BC

The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) hereby gives notice of its intention to hold a Special Committee of the Whole Meeting on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, at the North Peace Arena, 9805 96 Ave, Fort St. John, BC

ThepurposeofthemeetingistoaddressitemsdeferredfromtheJune8,2023, CommitteeoftheWholeMeeting,specificallyTreatyLandSharingNetworks,and thePeaceRiverLocalGovernmentAssociation.Thepubliciswelcometoattend.

The purpose of the meeting is to address items deferred from the June 8, 2023, Committee of the Whole Meeting, specifically Treaty Land Sharing Networks, and the Peace River Local Government Association. The public is welcome to attend.

ThePRRDwillacceptgalleryquestionsandcommentsfromthepublic,eitherat themeeting,orviaemailinadvance,senttotyra.henderson@prrd.bc.ca.Your commentsandnamewillbereadoutloudduringtheGalleryCommentsor Questionsportionoftheagenda.Gallerycommentsarelimitedtoitemsonthe agenda,andeachpersonhasuptotwominutestosharetheirviewsorpose questionsfortheBoard’sconsideration.

The PRRD will accept gallery questions and comments from the public, either at the meeting, or via email in advance, sent to tyra.henderson@prrd.bc.ca. Your comments and name will be read out loud during the Gallery Comments or Questions portion of the agenda. Gallery comments are limited to items on the agenda, and each person has up to two minutes to share their views or pose questions for the Board’s consideration.

Theagendaisavailableonlineatwww.prrd.bc.ca,andthemeetingwillbe livestreamedoverFacebook:

The agenda is available online at www.prrd.bc.ca , and the meeting will be livestreamed over Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialPRRD/

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialPRRD/

DawsonCreek,BC RainorShine!

Formoreinformationandonline registrationcheckoutourwebsite

TW Buck

The Fort St John Black Sox 13U and 18U teams travelled to Beaverlodge to compete in the Noah Grant Tournament, which both teams were returning as the defending champions from last year.

The 13U team was a force as they ran through the competition undefeated, to the final of the tournament where they met a strong Dawson Creek team. Jeffrey Murray pitched an amazing game in the finals, and the bats did the rest to clean up with a 6-1 victory and repeat as champions.

The 18U team was able to finish the round robin with a 2-0-1 record and was able to win to get into the semifinals against one of the Beaverlodge teams but ended up losing a closely fought game by a single run.

“It was interesting to see how things would go this year due to both teams having a large turnover in players,” said an official in a statement.

“The 18U team is composed of kids from the ages of 14-18 and coach Matt Bruha has a large group of first year players to this age group so to get as far as they did is a great accomplishment and is showing the growth of our sport in Fort St John.”

On June 23, both teams will be travelling to High Prairie for the Montney League Championships.

“Our house league has only one more week of regular season ball, before they get into their own playoffs the following week.”

tbuck@ahnfsj.ca

Medical/ dental Help

Walter Stewart 1944-2023

With his loving family by his side, Walter James Stewart passed away peacefully on June 11 at 79 years of age.

A celebration of life will be held at the Charlie Lake Community Hall on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 2:00 pm.

Condolences can be forwarded through www.hamresfuneral.com.

A Celebration of Life

for the late Delbert Fleet will be held on Sunday, June 25th from 1PM - 4PM at the Fort St. John Seniors Hall 10908 100 Street

ALWIN JAKOB

THOMAS

September 26, 1949 April 15, 2023

We are sad to announce the death of our dear brother

ALWIN THOMAS in Fort St. John.

A service celebrating his life will be held in Ottawa where his remaining siblings reside. He will also be interred there. Anyone who knew him or worked with him over the years, we would greatly appreciate a few words from you. Condolences can be forwarded through www.hamresfuneral.com.

only.

Duties include: Cooking, Care for the children at home. Light house cleaning. School drop-off and pick-up. Must speak English. Related Experience necessary. Dawson Creek. Email resume to: jayson_saao@yahoo.c om

NordlysMedical ClinicMOA/ Receptionist Wearelookingfor afull−timeMOA/ Receptionisttojoin ourteam.Please applywithinorvia email. nordlysmedical clinic@gmail.com

Trades Help

Experienced TicketedWelder PeaceValley Industriesis lookingfor TicketedExpe− rienced Weldersin ChetwyndB.C. Accommoda− tionsandShift WorkAvailable. HealthBenefits offered. Please emailresume topeacevalley @uniserve.com

Education

Funeral ServiceS

Celebration Of Life FOR EVA RUTZ

Friday, June 30, 2023

2:00 PM

ROSE PRAIRIE CURLING CLUB 7077 260 Road

Rose Prairie, BC V0C 2H0

Announcements

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Nanny/Live-in Caregiver required for 2 children ages 9 & 11. Full-Time Live-in only. Duties include: Cooking, Care for the children at home. Light house cleaning. School drop-off and pick-up. Must speak English. Related Experience necessary. Dawson Creek. Email resume to: rosaliejustado@gmail.com

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Books, Coins,stamps Todd’s Coins: Buying gold, silver & coins 250-864-3521

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LegaL/PubLic Notices

LANDACT:NOTICEOFAPPLICATION

FORADISPOSITIONOFCROWNLAND

TakenoticethatP&LVenturesLtd. fromHudson’sHope,BC,hasapplied totheMinistryofForests(FOR), NortheastRegion,foraLicenceofOc− cupationforQuarryingPurposessitu− atedonProvincialCrownlandlocated atPortageCreek. FORinvitescommentsonthisappli− cation,theLand’sfileis8015691. Writtencommentsconcerningthis applicationshouldbedirectedtoAn− drewTofflemire,(250)233−7058,Au− thorizationOfficer,NortheastRegion, FOR,at100−10003−110thAvenue, FortSt.John,BCV1J6M7.Comments willbereceivedbyFORuptoJuly28, 2023.FORmaynotbeabletoconsid− ercommentsreceivedafterthisdate. PleasevisittheApplications,Com− mentsandReasonsforDecision Database at http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/for moreinformation. Beadvisedthatanyresponsetothis advertisementwillbeconsideredpart ofthepublicrecord.Accesstothese recordsrequiresthesubmissionofa FreedomofInformation(FOI)request. Visitwww.gov.bc.ca/ freedomofinformationto learnmoreaboutFOIsubmissions.

21.5 foot Marathon Beaver Jet Riverboat $39,000.00 Call 250-263-1561

A group of elders and community members called ‘Mamawhiatoskehk’ will initiate the development of a process to create a governance committee which will develop a government for the Kelly Lake Community.

‘Mamawhiatoskehk’ is Cree for ‘Working Together’.

Kelly Lake First Nation has about 400 members, including those that live within the surrounding areas including Dawson Creek and Grande Prairie.

The Nikihk Management and Community Development Society (Nikihk) has worked to bring infrastructure and services to the community for the past four years but this work has been frustrated by the absence of a central government representing Kelly Lake.

To move Kelly Lake forward, community members have asked Nikihk to launch a process to establish a government for Kelly Lake.

On Saturday June 10, Nikihk convened a large gathering where community members discussed the process to move towards forming a government

for Kelly Lake, voted to approve the process, and formally established Mamawihatoskehk as a Working Group to initiate this community-led process.

“We have worked hard to bring infrastructure and services to Kelly Lake, and without a central government we continue to miss opportunities and meet barriers and roadblocks. Our Elders and community members want to change this. They want a governance model for our community that will unite us and allow for a vibrant, sustainable future for our members and our community,” said Michelle Calliou Nikihk President.

“Our community needs a government to assert and protect our Indigenous rights. Our Mamawihatoskehk will begin work immediately to develop a process to move governance forward. Once the proposed process is developed it will be shared with community members for support and approval,” said Nikihk Vice President Norman Calliou.

“We know this is a lot of ask of our Elders and Mamawihatoskehk members, but they have assured us during the Community Gathering on Saturday that they are up to the task and ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work for a better future for our community.”

Hanna Petersen